Being a good mountain biker has to do with your skill and abilities on the trail, but many would argue having good mountain bike etiquette is just as important. Being a steward of the trails, wildlife and trail experience for other riders and trail users is just as important in many people’s eyes.
How can you make sure your mountain bike etiquette is on point? Read on for some tips.
Who has the right of way?
It’s generally accepted in the mountain bike community that uphill traffic has the right of way when two mountain bikers meet, one going downhill and the other uphill on the same trail.
It makes sense when you think about it – downhill riders are going faster and have more potential to hit another rider going more slowly up the same hill.
If you were climbing a trail and another rider came flying in your direction from up the hill, there would be little you could do to avoid a collision if they lose control and hit you. There is a lot less chance you’d have trouble avoiding a rider coming uphill in your direction, since they are going much slower with very little momentum.
Because uphill traffic has the right of way, riders headed downhill will generally ride with more caution and be more prepared to stop incase they come a]cross a mountain biker going the other direction.
Keep in mind that yielding to uphill traffic is only etiquette, and not a law. Some people will not be aware that this is the proper mountain biking etiquette. There is no replacement for common sense out on the trail, and there isn’t anything wrong with pulling to the side letting a downhill rider pass by as a courtesy.
Ride trails in the correct direction
While many trail systems feature predominantly two way trails, some downhill only and uphill only trails do exist. If a trail is only for downhill use, or uphill use, it will be clearly marked as such.
If you come across a trail marked as only downhill or only uphill, do the right thing and make sure to ride it in only that direction. It can be very annoying if you’re trying to set a new personal best time on a trail and run into some other rider going in the wrong direction.
Not only is this an etiquette problem, but it can also become a safety issue. Downhill riders will generally be prepared to stop if need be, but its likely they will have their guard down more and expect a clear trail ahead if they’re riding on a downhill only trail.
Stay in control
Staying in control of your mountain bike at all times is a very important piece of mountain bike etiquette, but also safety for you and all those around you on the trail systems you ride.
Ride at speeds appropriate for the trails you’re on, and for your skill level. And while you need to push yourself to improve at MTB, don’t push too far beyond your comfort zone and attempt trails you are simply not ready for, as this creates a hazard for you and everyone else using that trail.
Be ready to stop for unforeseen hazards
Part of staying in control on your mountain bike is making sure you’re always prepared to stop for unforeseen hazards, whether they be animals, other trail users, or even unexpected obstacles on the trail.
When you’re riding quickly, you should have your finger on your brake levers and always keep in mind that you may need to stop at a moment’s notice.
Respect other trail users
To keep the sport of mountain biking in fellow trail users’ good graces, we (mountain bikers) should all strive to show respect to others who use the same trails.
Watch out for and yield to hikers and joggers
Keep an eye out for hikers and joggers as you’re riding your mountain bike. You’ll likely be approaching them at a much faster pace than they are approaching you.
Understand that people who are walking or jogging have the right of way on the trails, and pull off to the side while they pass if the trail you’re on is too narrow for both of you to pass each other.
Let unsuspecting trail users know you’re there
Nobody likes to be surprised by someone suddenly almost on top of them seemingly out of nowhere, especially when out for a hike or jog.
Make sure you announce your presence if you’re approaching other trail users and are unsure whether they know you’re nearby. Letting them know you’re approaching will allow them to avoid colliding with you inadvertently, gives them a chance to move to one side of the trail, and will avoid surprising or frightening them.
Use judgement with soft and muddy trails
When it comes to riding your mountain bike in wet conditions, and on muddy trails, you need to use your judgement. Some areas get lots of rain, meaning if you never rode your bike on wet trails, you’d hardly ever ride!
There is a fine line between wet trails that are a bit muddy, and trails that are simply too soft to ride without causing damage.
If you’re riding along and notice deep ruts everywhere your tires have been, you should probably keep off the trails to avoid damaging them. If your tires aren’t sinking in but just leaving tread marks, you should be okay to ride.
Stay on the trail
One issue that comes up with soft, muddy MTB trails is riders who go around puddles and wet spots. You may not want to ride right through these spots, but riding around them can widen the trail where it shouldn’t be widened.
If lots of riders are doing this, that tight, twisty singletrack trail you love can become a wide, boring trail that no longer rides how the builders intended. Don’t contribute to this problem if you can help it.
Don’t take shortcuts
Taking shortcuts isn’t a big deal when you’re riding dry, firm trails, but when things are wet and soft, taking shortcuts can have the effect of creating new trails that shouldn’t be there, or cutting off corners that are integral to a trail’s design.
Stay off when too soft
And remember, if you’re noticing your tires sinking in to the trails you’re riding (by an inch or more) its probably best to stay off them until conditions firm up, so you don’t ruin the trails for everyone else.
Only ride open trails
Be a good mountain bike citizen and only ride trails when they are open. If a trail has a sign indicating its closed, whether that be for trail building, soft conditions, or other reasons, you should stay off that trail until it opens back up.
Respect the wildlife
Part of mountain biking etiquette is being respectful of the wildlife you come across while riding. You shouldn’t intentionally scare animals or get too close to them on purpose.
For one thing, it can be dangerous to get too close, depending on what type of animals you have in your neck of the woods. But beyond that, a big part of mountain biking is becoming one with nature and enjoying the wildlife you encounter (from afar), not chasing it away.
Frequently asked questions
As a general rule, downhill riders should yield to uphill traffic. However, riders in each direction should be aware and in control in case they meet riders going the opposite direction.
Also, if you’re riding uphill but stop to take a break, you should pull off to the side of the trail to not interrupt riders heading downhill.
If your tires are sinking in to the trail surface by more than an inch or so, the trails are probably too soft to ride without causing damage.
Conclusion
Having respect for your fellow trail users and using common sense goes a long way towards having good mountain bike etiquette. Beyond that, keep our tips top of mind to keep you on top of your MTB etiquette game.