Downhill Mountain Biking
If you are looking for an action packed sport and enjoy the scenic view of the outdoors, then downhill mountain biking might be the one for you. Downhill riding is a branch of mountain biking wherein riders race for the best time to complete the whole course. The race follows a time trial format where riders start alone at set intervals. A modified version of downhill riding that is becoming increasingly popular is the urban downhill mountain biking where races are being held in urban areas with descending paths and steep jumps.
The first downhill time trial was held in October 22, 1976 in a fire road known today as Repack Road in Fairfax, California and the winner of the historic race was Alan Bonds. Since downhill mountain biking were just starting in the seventy's, there were no standard downhill mountain bikes, what were used for descending were known as "klunkers" or "paperboy bikes" or coaster brake cruisers with balloon tires.
If you are planning on engaging in downhill mountain biking, the important thing that you will have to consider, next to your skills and experience, is your gear and equipment. Downhill mountain bikes are not the same with your regular mountain bikes. Downhill bikes are especially made to withstand enormous physical punishment from rough and steep terrains. Make sure that your downhill mountain bike is built this way so check the specs before purchasing from your favorite discount bike supplies. Also make sure that your safety gears such as helmets and body armor have surpassed safety standards.
More information on downhill mountain biking.