Mountain biking has seen a surge in interest over the last decade and has become one of the most popular sports around.

Better trails, improved bike technology, and the inclusion of mountain biking as a high-school sport are all part of the reason why more and more people are getting hooked. The recent lockdown also added fuel to the desire to get out of our homes and into nature.

So, what makes mountain biking such a popular sport?

The Thrill

Riding down rocky single tracks, across dams on floating bridges, and over cliffs on suspension bridges are just a few of the exhilarating things you could be doing on your bike. Mountain biking evokes scenes of lush landscapes and shady tree-lined trails but there are many parts of a race that aren’t quite so calm and serene. Riders experience a thrilling rush of adrenaline when they’re racing down hills and winding down tight paths. A well-thought-out trail has a good balance of relaxed and exciting parts to get your blood pumping.

The Sense of Adventure

Depending on where you live you might need to do a great deal of travelling to get to MTB events. It’s a sport that is constantly taking you to new and interesting places across the country. Mountain bikers are always on the go, adventuring to some of the most beautiful places in South Africa. A bonus is having your family with you and enough time to do some proper sightseeing while you’re at an event, to make the most of your time there. According to Market Research Future and Bike Biz, “Adventure tourism is the fastest-growing tourism industry worldwide, and several countries are focusing on new mountain bike strategies aiming for an economic boost.”

https://bikebiz.com/the-rise-of-mtb/amp/

The Physical Challenge

Mountain biking is a physically challenging and rewarding sport. The process starts way before the actual race, with at least six weeks of training that include endurance, strength training, and cardio. You’re constantly in motion using large amounts of energy and concentration throughout the ride. Mountain biking uses large muscle groups and can burn up to 900 calories per hour! “Mountain bikes involve the use of whole-body muscles, making them one of the best exercises for those wanting to lower their cholesterol or build muscle mass.”

https://mtbfunplanet.com/calories-burned-mountain-biking/

The Social Scene

Anyone who’s been to an MTB event can attest to the fact that mountain bikers are a great bunch of people. There’s always a fun, lively social scene during and after an event and it’s a great way to network and meet like-minded people. It makes the travelling and long hours of training worth it when you can spend time at an event enjoying the atmosphere, meeting cool people, and being social. Mountain bikers are also incredibly helpful and welcoming to anyone who wants to join the sport.

If the trends are true, the future of mountain biking is brighter than ever. There are events all over the country that cater to every level of experience and type of adventure traveller. One such event is the Sabie Xperience, a three-day stage race in Sabie, Mpumalanga. There are options for beginners and pros, as well as fun freebies like a children’s race and rider gift packs that include discounts and incentives to visit restaurants and tourist spots in the area.

Find fellow riders in your community and join a sport that’s got everything going for it, we guarantee you’ll never look back.

It was MTB heaven! Big climbs, thrilling single tracks, and technical enough to challenge you. It is one of the best MTB races I have done so far. Congratulations to all involved!

Adolf Wolmarans
Rider