What is downhill mountain biking?
Downhill mountain biking is a fascinating type of biking. It combines adrenaline, speed and daredevil action. As the name suggests, the task is to master steep slopes, challenging terrain, technical descents and big jumps. Not only does it demand speed, but also dexterity, technique and balance – and everything in just one direction: downhill.
But before you throw yourself headlong into steep descents, you should get a clear overview of your own skills, the right equipment, different riding techniques and the necessary safety precautions.
MTB downhill is one of the most exciting disciplines in cycling. You’ll experience the dynamics between control and speed. You’ll ride through woods, across roots and rocks, as well as man-made sections with some incredible jumps, gaps, tables and doubles. So you don’t just need physical fitness but also mental determination, concentration and a good deal of riding technique.
Regardless of whether you’re experienced or you’re new to this exciting world: the fascination of this sport lies in the challenge, being connected to nature and the unrivalled thrill resulting from descending steep slopes. Immerse yourself in the depth of downhill mountain bike racing and experience the beauty and excitement of this unique cycling discipline.
The right equipment: what type of bike is suitable for downhill mountain biking?
An appropriate downhill bike and the right equipment play a key role in a sport that is challenging by design.
You would usually take a downhill bike to the relevant routes and parks. These bikes are designed to withstand the challenges of steep and technically demanding descents. They generally feature good suspension, typically 200 mm on the fork and rear to make sure even the roughest obstacles can be compensated. You can usually adapt the suspension to the route and your personal requirements (weight, preferences). With air suspension elements, changes are made via the air pressure and the configuration of the cushioning. With steel suspension, the choice of spring rate has a significant impact on the riding experience.
Bike frame
The frames have a very robust design because they need to handle rough descents and long jumps. They’re available in aluminium or carbon.
The geometry of a downhill bike is designed for riding stability and control. You would use a shallow steering angle, sometimes below 65-64°, and the wheelbase is longer to provide a stable riding platform.
Brakes are indispensable for mountain bike racing downhill
Downhill bikes are equipped with powerful brakes so you can effectively control the high speed on steep descents. In order to generate the required braking force, designs with four instead of just two brake pistons are typically used now. Brake discs usually have a diameter of 203 mm, which is also beneficial for the braking force and prevents hand cramps. There are now even huge discs with a diameter of 223 mm! A certain overlap with motocross equipment – at least on paper – can’t be denied.
Crossing the finish line with the perfect tyres
Also extremely important in this context: the tyres! They’re in contact with the ground so have to cope with tough terrain. You can get different profiles and rubber mixtures depending on whether you’re riding on dry, hard surfaces, rocky ground or slippery and muddy terrain. This is worth considering for each route and different weather conditions because grip and traction are essential for fast progress without accidents.
Just as important: the contact between the rider and the bike, i.e. the pedal. While many downhillers prefer flat pedals with pins that can be screwed in to ensure the perfect grip with MTB shoes and platform soles, there are also daredevil riders who use clickies, meaning the shoe clips onto the pedal. Both have their advantages but it may be safer for beginners to be able to act independently from the bike in case something goes wrong.
What other equipment is needed for downhill biking?
The right equipment is essential for safety, comfort and performance during downhill mountain biking.
The downhill helmet is a central component of the safety gear; it should be a full-face helmet in any case. This will offer comprehensive protection for the head and face. Goggles, similar to those for skiing, protect the eyes from dirt and foreign bodies. Gloves with padding not only provide comfort but also protection from impact from below. They also offer grip on the handlebars so you can keep control of your bike.
Elbow and knee pads are also indispensable, as well as a protector vest or jacket for the upper body, protecting the ribs and organs at the front, and the spine at the back. Many riders now also wear additional neck protection for the cervical spine, neck and even the collar bone in the event of a fall.
Which shoes are suitable for downhill MTB?
Shoes for flat pedals have a rigid sole to ensure efficient power transfer, grip and good support on the pedals, as well as a sturdy design. These shoes often have an opening in the sole that allows screwing on of cleats so clickies can be used. In general, robust MTB shoes are recommended which provide your feet with the required stability and protection, regardless of the pedal system used.
The best time of the year
The best time of the year for downhill mountain bike racing depends on different factors. These include your personal preferences, weather conditions, the availability of routes and your riding level.Most people prefer the warmer months from spring to autumn.
Spring to autumn
By their very nature, many routes are more easily accessible in warmer months. Dry weather and mild temperatures offer ideal conditions for biking because the longer days and warmer air generally make any outdoor activities more enjoyable. As with all sporting activities, the following applies: make sure you drink enough in particularly high temperatures.
Autumn
Autumn can be a great time because temperatures are usually more pleasant – less hot – and the colours of the leaves make the countryside even more appealing. The surrounding nature is particularly beautiful and, thanks to the clear autumn air, you can get great long-distance views, especially in the mountains.
Can I go downhill mountain biking in the winter?
This challenging sport is possible in the winter, depending on the location and individual preferences. Everything hinges on the weather conditions in the specific area. Some routes are open year-round while others may be closed because of snow and wintery conditions. In regions with milder weather, winter is also an option to pursue your new passion.
Bear in mind that the weather conditions in winter represent additional challenges. Snow, ice and lower temperatures make descents more demanding. The selection of the right equipment – clothing in particular – is then even more important. Find out about local route conditions and the availability of the route you’ve chosen before you set off.
Which routes are suitable for downhill mountain biking?
There are many suitable options. As a basic rule, a descent should feature certain characteristics to meet the specific requirements of this sport, it should challenge the rider but not demand too much and ultimately offer proper action.
Natural descents
Natural descents and hillsides with difficult terrain are ideal; locals may even “upgrade” a route by adding features of varying difficulty. Of course, these routes will also have natural obstacles like roots, rocks and steep slopes. So don’t just get going but find out about the characteristics in advance.
Bike parks
Bike parks usually offer different, sometimes specific downhill routes. These parks are typically equipped with lift systems and routes that cater for different demands, including jumps, switchbacks, (road) gaps, tables, other features and technical sections. In ideal cases, there will be something for every riding level.
Alpine routes
In the mountains, in Alpine terrain, you can often find long, steep descents and technically challenging routes that are mainly suitable for advanced riders.
Woods and forest ground
Some woods and nature paths feature routes that integrate well into their natural surroundings. These routes can include different elements, such as roots, bends and flowing sections. In low mountain ranges, descents tend to be short and not particularly demanding so they’re suitable for beginners as well.
Technical trails
Trails with technically demanding terrain, such as rocky sections, tight bends and fast descents, can be ideal. You can find them in the Alps, in low mountain ranges, at the Ligurian coast, in the French hinterland etc. etc. So if you have a downhill bike, these will be really enjoyable.
When choosing a route, you must make sure you don’t overexert yourself but match the descent to your riding skills. Abroad, too, of course, you have to consider local regulations and conditions. Plus: never go without your safety equipment!
Tips and tricks for downhill mountain bike racing
In general, it’s true to say that downhill mountain biking is a fascinating, yet demanding discipline. In ideal cases, speed, technique and adrenaline unite to create a whole lot of fun. However, as a beginner, you should approach steep descents, technical sections and other riding challenges (such as jumps and drops) gradually. This is the only way you can improve as a rider (without spending months in a plaster cast).
Technique and skills play an essential role. The correct body position, weight transfer and where you’re looking are key to keep control and balance. Practising basic riding techniques like jumping, going over roots and mastering bends or drops is indispensable for a safe and efficient descent. Take your time and listen to your body. Safety is the top priority.
If you bear the above in mind, downhill mountain biking will not just represent a sporting challenge but also an experience combining nature and thrills. If you respect your environment, keep practising and exchange experiences with others, you’ll improve your skills in order to immerse yourself even more in the exciting world of this unique sport.
