Getting
Started
It is easier than you think to get started into
DH. I remember how daunting it all was when I was
first starting out. The only thing that made it
easier was contacting the
British Cycling Federation. They told
me about a local DH clinic they were putting on
and I headed out to that. That day not only did
I improve my skills, but the BCFgave me an entry
form for my first race, gaving me the push I needed
to start racing. I suggest you start out the same
way. Take a look around for local cycling camps
and clinics - every country has them, At these events
you will get a chance to speak with other riders
and even a few pros. They can teach you most of
what you need to know and you’ll be racing
in no time.
Type of Bike
You don't need anything special to start. Something
that is in good working order with decent brakes
will be perfect. I raced my first race on a rigid
Marin that cost about 350 pounds at the time. I
won that 1st race with that old bike and was able
to make upgrades from there. As you improve you
will have to improve your bike, but there is no
rush.
SAFETY GEAR!
Invest in a full-face helmet. You won't regret it!
Your head is the most important part of your body
so always protect it. Elbows and knees usually hit
the floor first - cover them up! Also grab a good
set of gloves. Skin is nice to have on your hands.
This is the stuff you don't want to cheap out on
too much.
Good safety gear makes the difference between walking
away from a crash and spending weeks in a hospital.
For an idea of what you are looking for, here's
the Gear I Use:
Bike: Norco
Team DH
Helmet: THE
One Carbon helmet
Body Armor: Dainese knee and shin
Gloves: Fly Racing
218
Goggles:
Zeal Optics’ Link MX Goggles
Race Pants:
Fly Racing 218
Maintenance
Look after your bike and your bike will look after
you. If you don't know how to do it, ask for help.
Your local bike shop will usually point you in the
right direction. Speak with the mechanics and learn
how to do some of it yourself. If you can't get
to a bike shop, just a simple bolt-check every few
rides will save you lots of trouble and money. Make
sure they are all tight. Also, cleaning your bike
regularly will make a huge difference. You can buy
some of the tools and do the job yourself once you
know the basics. Visit ICE
TOOLZ to see the tools I use.
Keep Someone Informed
Your parents are right about this one. DH is a dangerous
sport. Make sure someone is out on the trails with
you, or at least knows where you are! You are bound
to get hurt at some point and you will be kicking
yourself if you are laid out on a trail and noone
knows where to find you.
Sponsorship
Getting started with sponsors goes way deeper than
results.
You will find most companies are looking for people
with good personalities and positive media appeal.
You need to get your smiling face out there in the
community with your bike. Obviously results help,
but it is the attitude that will win you the deals!
Practice Makes Perfect
You will never improve unless you are out riding.
Whether you are riding DH or just out street riding
with your mates, any time on your bike will help
your racing. If you are having trouble stepping
it up, head out to a local clinic with a pro rider
or coach and get some tips
. |
|
|
