Mountain Bike Etiquette: How to Behave on Trails

Bikers on trails are often a thorn in the side of other mountain sports enthusiasts. They are often labeled as rowdies, which only do damage. But why? Where does this negative image come from? This is quite simple: As you shout into the forest, so will it echo back. Because even if the majority of the mountain bike community behaves correctly, there are a few black sheep that harm the reputation of the entire scene. To make sure that you act as a role model on the trails, we have put together an overview of the most important mountain bike rules for you.

 

Show consideration for nature

Without mountains, hills, forests and meadows, without our fascinating natural landscape, there would be no mountain biking. Therefore, we are responsible to preserve nature for its own sake but also for future generations to come. 

  • Everything you take up the mountain, take it down again. In essence: Do not leave any garbage behind!
  • Only ride on trails. Away from marked paths, you disturb the surrounding nature. In addition, the trail gets wider, erosion can occur and parts of the track might be closed.
  • Avoid riding on wet trails, otherwise, you will leave deep grooves and ruin the track for others. Again, erosion can be the result.

 

 

 

Be Considerate of Animals

When mountain biking you encounter not only wild animals but also domestic ones such as dogs, horses and cows. It is important to behave properly, in order not to unnecessarily stress the animals and also to avoid possible accidents. 

  • Do only drive through the forest before dusk. Deer, rabbits, foxes and other wildlife are active at dusk and at night and are disturbed by bikers.
  • To not unintentionally free or lock up cows and sheep, you should always leave pasture gates as you find them. Close a closed gate behind you and leave an open one as it is.
  • Before you pass unleashed dogs, you should definitely slow down – otherwise you are the perfect prey. Make dog owners aware of you in advance.
  • Give special attention to horses as they are often very skittish. To be on the safe side, stop in time and ask the horse owner how to ride or walk by the horse. The equestrian will appreciate it!

 

Show respect to other nature users

You do not only need to be considerate towards your environment but also towards other people on the mountain – especially hikers, but also trail runners will cross your way.

  • Rule #1: Greet! A simple “Hello” is enough to break the ice and to give some skeptical hikers a good feeling. If you are biking in a group, it is also advisable to let others know how many are coming behind you.
  • If biking in a large group, it is better to split up in several smaller ones in order not to disturb others.
  • If you approach hikers, you should always slow down – if necessary even get off your bike on single trails. Fast passing bikers are often perceived to be threatening and unfriendly.
  • In general, as in road traffic, you need to be considerate of the weaker – in this case, all those who are on foot – and let them go first.

 

 

be in control of your bike and yourself

To avoid accidents and conflicts on the mountain, you should have your bike under control and know your own limits.

  • Be ready to brake at all times – this means always having one finger on the brake. This way you can react faster in dangerous situations and avoid collisions.
  • Especially in curves you should be careful – never cut them! Besides taking an enormous risk when cutting blind curves, the trails get damaged.
  • Highly important when mountain biking is to assess yourself right. Have a good look at the route in advance and get off your bike at too difficult passages. Also remember that you have to get down the steep sections you have climbed before – this is especially true for e-bike owners.

 

In addition, always keep in mind that ignorance does not protect against punishment! Therefore, inform yourself in advance where you are allowed to bike and where not. In Germany, you are unfortunately still very limited in terms of trails. Switzerland, on the other hand, has a very extensive trail network for bikers, and Austria also has quite a lot to offer.