Mountainbiking Essentials for Students

Front

Hardtail mountain bike

Back

suspension only, no rear suspension

Front

Full-suspension bike

Back

front and rear suspension for rough terrain

Front

Tyre pressure for trail riding

Back

psi, depending on rider and terrain

Front

Dropper seatpost

Back

saddle height while riding

Front

Flat pedals

Back

pedals, no cleats required

Front

Clipless pedals

Back

that attach to special cycling shoes

Front

Singletrack trail

Back

trail, usually 1–2 feet wide

Front

Downhill mountain biking

Back

descents, technical features, full-face helmet recommended

Front

Cross-country (XC) riding

Back

endurance, lighter bikes, longer distances

Front

Enduro racing

Back

downhill stages, untimed uphill transitions