Riding a bike can be great for your body, your health and the planet. It can also help you clear your head. Whether you are taking in the scenery on local trails bikepacking or going to take part in a mountain biking competition like Silk Road cycling can stimulate new brain cells in the hippocampus (the area of the brain responsible for memory) and reduce stress levels. It can even help you sleep better as it reduces cortisol, a hormone that prevents deep, restful sleep.

But the best bicycle for your daily needs depends on a lot of factors, from …

As cyclists, we love to push our bike’s limits. And while we’re all familiar with the physics behind how fast a bicycle can go, not everyone understands just how much power it takes to overcome road and weather conditions to achieve those top speeds.

To get the most speed out of a bike you need to pedal at a constant cadence. Cadence is the number of times the cranks rotate in one minute and depends on how much energy you’re putting out. The higher the cadence the faster you’ll go, but it can also lead to knee and back problems. …

The differences between road and mountain bikes are stark especially if you’re new to bike riding. From the way they look to the tires and handlebar shapes there’s a lot about them that differ. And while the most obvious difference is the lack of suspension there are a number of other factors that can impact your ride and your comfort.

Road Bikes
Road bikes are lightweight and designed for riding on smooth surfaces like paved roads they have thin wheels that reduce resistance, and the handles have a curved shape that allows riders to move their hands into three different …

The first thing you should do when riding a trail is tell someone where you’re going and what time to expect you back. Many cycling apps also allow you to share a tracking link with loved ones.

Keep in mind that dogs are not allowed on some trails. Bring a bag to carry out dog poop and be respectful of other trail users.

Know the Terrain

Bike trails are made up of a variety of terrain. They can be sandy, rocky or hardpacked, and the trail surface can change with the seasons, weather and location. Some trails may be slick …

Whether you’re a daily bike commuter or new to biking, mountain bikes are the way to go if you love riding trails and want to explore nature. While mountain biking may seem intimidating or intense to new riders, anyone can get started with a little know-how and some essential gear. This beginner’s guide to mountain bike types will help you find the right ride for your needs and skill level.

Compared to road bikes, mountain bikes have fatter, knobbier tires a larger stronger frame bigger stronger brakes and front (or sometimes rear) suspension. The suspension is designed to absorb the …