Mountain Cycling
What is Mountain cycling ?
Mountain cycling is all about steering a mountain cycle over rocky tracks and
around boulder-strewn paths. It’s no secret that mountain bikers love trails and
more trails! To tackle the trails, the requirements are physical strength,
stamina and a strong mountain cycle. Mountain bikes or ATBs (all-terrain bikes)
feature a frame and fork that are rugged. Their frames are often built of
aluminium so they are lightweight and stiff, making them efficient to ride.
Where to go ?
The hot spots for mountain cycling are Kullu Manali & Shimla in Himachal
Pradesh, and Garhwal & Kumaon in Tehri Garhwal in Uttaranchal.The Leh–Manali
highway gives you a chance to conquer the mighty Himalayas through four mountain
passes. The Eastern Himalayas in Sikkim and Darjeeling also provide a number of
short and long distance trails.
What you need to know ?
Mountain cycling calls for strength and stamina. Make sure that you get used
to the local climatic conditions. Most tour operators offer experienced support
teams, guides, energy drinks, food and accommodation (on a twin sharing basis).
You will need a Granting Permit from the Ministry of Home Affairs if you wish to
cycle through restricted areas. Many Indian missions abroad, the foreigners’
regional registration offices (FRROs) in Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata and
Amritsar also grant permits.
The International Cycling Union (UCI) conducts annual world championships
(www.uci.ch).
What you must carry ?
A sturdy, geared mountain cycle is what you need to buy. Accessories include
biking shoes, helmet, insulated gloves/waterproof gloves, cycling bags to carry
belongings, lightweight, washable and insulated bottles for keeping beverages
cool, collapsible water bags, first-aid kit, sunglasses, insect repellants and
sunscreen lotion. Carry a repair kit with tubes, non-toxic and water-soluble
degreaser, grease tubes for greasing bearings and an aero spray for bike
cleaning. A bike pump and tool kit, along with spare tyres, accessories like
speedometer, bike rack, batteries, instruction manuals, maps and flashlights are
other musts.
Mountain Cycling : Hotspots
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Leh (J&K)–Manali (Himachal) |
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Manali–Shimla (Himachal) |
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Garhwal-Kumaon (Uttaranchal) |
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Delhi–Kathmandu (Nepal) |
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Kulu Spiti Kinnaur traverse (Himachal) |
Mountain Cycling : Do's and Don'ts
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Practice pedaling on an exercise bike. |
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Dress warm on high-altitude expeditions. |
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Don’t compromise on equipment. Buy quality gear. |
