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Biking is freedom. With or without e-drive. Pure joie de vivre – whether on paved or gravel roads, in the mountains or on flowing trails. It’s the experience that counts! Nevertheless, the joy of pedaling does not absolve us of our responsibility for fellow human beings, nature and wildlife. Because nature is not only used by bikers, but also by hikers, pedestrians, foresters, conservationists and forest owners. Above all, it is a sensitive ecosystem and habitat for many animals. And quite honestly: A greater sense of responsibility not only increases our good feeling and conscience, but also helps to ensure that the next tour will be an unclouded experience.
We give you 11 tips and rules of conduct for safe, nature- and socially compatible biking:
1. Self-responsibility
Responsibility on the mountain begins with yourself and with the realistic assessment of your own condition, skills and the actions derived from them. Before the tour you should be able to answer the following questions for yourself: How good is my condition? How well-founded is my alpine technical know-how? And does my own technical ability match the demands of the tour?
2. Planning & minimum equipment
The tour should therefore correspond to one’s own abilities, be well planned in advance and adapted to the current weather. Before departure, it is important to check the equipment and also to be equipped for emergencies. The following belongs to the basic equipment: tools, if necessary spare parts, first aid kit, snack and reusable bottle, garbage bag, a suitable helmet, your cell phone! The emergency number in Europe is 112.
3. Material check
Better safe than sorry: Check your equipment before each tour, especially your bike: brakes, tight fit of the wheels, suspension, gears and air pressure of the tires. How much the tires are filled with air not only has an effect on the grip of the tires, but also on the wear of the surface.
4. Safety first: Never without a helmet
Uphill as well as downhill. For city riding as well as uphill: a helmet should be mandatory. In the event of a fall or collision, a helmet can prevent head injuries or even save your life. Protectors and padded clothing can also protect you from injury.
5. Keep control & know your limit
Biking is an endurance and action sport: it demands your reaction skills, your physical condition and requires good health and a realistic self-assessment. Know your limits. (It is also important to always have the bike and the speed under control. Adapt your speed to the situation and be ready to brake, as unforeseen obstacles can be expected at any time.
6. Nature is nature
Our nature is a unique ecosystem and an important habitat for many animals. Alpine salamanders, chamois, deer, grazing cattle, as well as plants worthy of protection and sensitive substrates such as forest soils and mountain meadows. Therefore, the following applies: Respect wildlife and nature conservation zones, observe trail closures, only ride on posted trails and use them responsibly depending on the weather and pedestrians.
7. Leave no Traces
Mindful biking helps to protect nature and wildlife as well as fellow human beings. So if you want to be sustainable in the mountains, don’t leave (brake) traces. Control your braking so that the wheels do not lock. This helps to protect the ground from erosion. Driving technique courses also help here: especially sharp curves are easier to master thanks to the right technique. This not only brings more safety, but also more riding fun and the right hacks for tour planning – and on top of that, you’ll be sparing the trails and ensuring better togetherness.
8. Garbage on the mountain
Nature can’t rid itself of trash. And honestly, for nature lovers, it’s part of the custom on the mountain (and elsewhere in life) to take your own trash with you and dispose of it properly. It is not a trivial offense to throw handkerchiefs and co. into nature – it takes about 5 years for them to fully decompose. Other types of garbage such as plastic, cigarette butts, and hygiene products usually do not decompose at all, pollute nature, and can become a danger to animals. Noise is also not appropriate!
9. Respect animals
Grazing animals should be treated with respect. Even if grazing cows look good on selfies, it is a disturbance for the animal and a risk for yourself. Therefore, approach grazing animals at an appropriate distance and speed and always close fences and gates. We should refrain from biking at dusk or at night. Many wild animals are active and out foraging during the quiet hours. Wildlife sanctuaries are off limits without exception!
10. Gentleman/-woman on trail
Be considerate of other (mountain) athletes and especially children! Pedestrians always have priority. Respectful coexistence on the mountain can be promoted by an adapted speed, an early notice and a friendly greeting. If necessary, stop briefly to let your fellow pedestrians pass in narrow passages. It is also best to ride in small groups, avoid speeding uphill on your e-bike, and avoid trails that are heavily traveled by hikers.
11. Bus, trail & ride
Being responsible in nature and on the mountain starts at home. With the right planning of the tour and appropriate travel. Environmentally friendly alternatives can also be used for the journey, even if your own car seems so practical and tempting. In terms of sustainability, it does not always have to be distant, prestigious peaks, but also the easily accessible local mountains and home trails. If the distance to the biking area is a bit longer, the footprint can be reduced:
– Many regions are excellently accessible by public transport. Bikes can be easily transported by train or bus. In addition to the environmental aspect, traveling by bus or train is not only comfortable, but also eliminates the parking problem right from the start.
– If you can’t avoid traveling individually, carpooling or car sharing are ideal ways to travel in a more environmentally friendly manner.
Additional tip no. 12: Your sustainable outfit
You can find your sustainable outfit in our online store or in our stores. Sustainable outfit? Yes, there is a lot you can do: Look for trustworthy manufacturers who ensure fair working conditions throughout the entire supply chain and for products made from sustainable materials. Durability is important, so that your outfit can be repaired and you can enjoy it for a long time. This reduces your footprint enormously. Need some suggestions and tips? Then take a look at our sustainability category WIR DENKEN UM.
Everything checked and well prepared? Then nothing stands in the way of your bike experience. Ride on!