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IMPORTANT
TIPS FOR OFF-ROAD SAFETY
Lights
Lights are definitely applicable for trail riding
if you're not 100% sure that you'll be out of the woods by sundown.
Your
Route
It's always best not to go out alone, but if
you do, always tell someone the area/route you plan to ride and
when to expect you back. If you plan an overnight trip, let someone
know where you'll be staying.
Hydration
Water bottles may be preferred by roadies, but
you don't have the same opportunities to refill and refuel when
on the trail. Hydration packs are not only preferred for long trail
rides, they can be a medical necessity to keep properly hydrated.
And if you're carrying the backpack, energy bars or other sources
of packaged energy may also be important, depending on the ride.
Spare
Tubes
Carry a spare tube and patch kit. The patch kit
will fix a small pinhole, but it's reassuring to have an entire
tube on hand for a major blowout. If you blow out a tire sidewall,
a good way to patch it is with duct tape, so carry a small roll.
Many riders prefer to carry the extra tube, tools, and compact pump
in a pack, since the constant jarring from the rough terrain has
a tendency to break the mounting devices for these things.
Face/Skin
Protection
Carry insect repellent and sunscreen. Wear eye
protection, even if you don't wear prescription glasses. You will
need protection from sticks, branches, insects, and flying debris.
Clothing
Carry a longsleeve tee shirt made of modern wicking
fabric in case the weather turns bad. These shirts are lightweight,
compressible and can fit in small packs. Remember, you're riding
in the mountains a lot of times and weather can change quickly in
those settings.
Trail
Etiquette
• Always respect private property owner's
rights.
• Bikers yield to all other trail users.
• Do not ride trails posted as "no biking".
• The AT is universally off-limits.
• Do not ride during extremely wet conditions so that environmental
impacts are minimized.
• Know the rules when riding on public lands such as state
parks or game lands.
• Never leave litter on the trails.
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