Enduro sports is a type of bike racing which is very much influenced by car rally racing. With races completed on mountain bikes and even motorbikes the concept is relatively simple, get yourself to the top of a mountain or hill and then race back down again. Normally completed in woodland tracks and challenging terrain, this sport really tests the endurance of any rider, whether they are using pedal power or have the help of a motor. These races are certainly not for the faint-hearted and should be approached with caution if you are new to either discipline, they can get pretty wild.
What Type of Bike Will You Need?
Firstly, you will need to get yourself a bike that is capable of handling rough terrain. Whether you opt for a mountain bike or a motorbike, you will need something that can last through tough climbs and can provide you with enough power to gather some speed. As a rule of thumb, anything that still feels comfortable after you have been our riding trails for a couple of hours should be suitable for Enduro Racing. To really work out which bike would be best for you, you will need to look at the terrain that you will be riding on. This way, you can assess which tyre size or what types of brakes might better match up with the track you will be racing on to give you the best possible advantage.
What Will You Need to Wear?
If you want to compete in Enduro Racing, you will need to make sure that you have the right safety gear, no matter what type of bike you ride on. At the very least you will need to wear a full-face helmet. For many races, not wearing a helmet might mean that you are not allowed to compete because it can be extremely dangerous to race without one. You will also need pads to protect extremities such as your knees, shins and elbows. Eyewear is also essential. You will be riding on trails, where it is likely that dirt and stones might fly up into your face. Protecting your eyes is a must. You could always head to 24mx to find any gear that you might need before you sign up for your first race.
What are races like?
Heading to your first race can be extremely daunting. Many people assume that they need to be professionals or that they need to have reached some sort of fitness target or achieved certain times before they can head to an event. This is absolutely not the case. Nobody expects you to be a pro at all. Events are set up so that everyone can enjoy them, no matter what their levels of physical fitness are or what their skill levels are when it comes to riding. The teams who organise these events are always extremely friendly and are happy to introduce new people into the fold. Give it a try today, search out local events in your area and get out there. You won't regret it.
