Mountain Bike in Europe
When we say mountain bikes in Europe, we mean a very eventful and rich history of development. The history of mountain bike and mountain biking is as eventful and almost as long as the history of bikes in general. And all those events and development are taking place exactly on the soil of the Old Continent. And the history of the off-road bicycles begins in the remote year of 1896.
There was an array of changes underwent in developing this two-wheel-off-road device. The changes went from the change of shape to the change of the very structure, meaning of the materials being used, all that to make the mountain bike a vehicle which will enable the riders have comfortable and safe ride.
The diversity of models comes from the diversity of requirements for each type of mountain bike racing. For example, the Cross Country XC model is manufactured to meet the requirements for a cross racing. These bikes are lighter in weight which makes them function better when climbing.
Nevertheless, the mountain bike designs from the 21st century are the most technologically developed so far. Their great efficiency lies in their geometry, suspension, the wheel brakes as well as the design of both the tire and the wheel.
The mountain bikes have achieved fame throughout the world, however, the greatest pleasure of a driver is to participate on a mountain bike race on European soil. It is not only because the whole story of the mountain bikes begins in Europe, but because Europe offers the most diverse, dramatic and beautiful landscapes, optimal for a great mountain bike race.
One of the countries that offer great trails for an exciting race is Greece, especially Corfu since it offers a long mountain landscape all the way to Dassia and passing through this island’s highest region. Autumn and spring are the optimal seasons for mountain biking here because the climate is pleasant, whereas, in other seasons it is not so desirable since the temperature might soar up to 40 degrees. Also avoid the summer because it is the tourist season in Corfu and mountain biking in that crowd and at that temperature might not be easily manageable.
If you are looking for challenging trails you should try the riding track of the Italian Livigno Park in Mottolino. This track is open in the summer only and offers a challenging track and exciting ride since it was once used to hold world championship tours.
Another great spot for mountain bike racing is situated in central Portugal and here we are talking about the Gois Forest. The trails go through forests and a village and there are very well maintained tracks as well.
Other very demanding trails are located in the Alan Forest Part, near the capital of Wales, Cardiff. There are two main trails here; one of them is Wall which has the length of 23 kilometers and the other is Penhydd and is somewhat shorter (16 km).
Mountain bike is the most exciting off-road vehicle and Europe has the most captivating landscapes and trails for an unforgettable mountain bike race. Before you start off mountain biking in your preferred location, bear in mind that your riding speed has to be in accordance to your current physical activity and the climate.
_
