Are you ready to ride, but not sure what gear to get? At Cincinnati Off-Road Alliance (CORA), we aim to provide pathways for all levels of trail adventures. Here is a comprehensive guide to get you started, including local bike shops to get all the gear you need!
Disclaimer: Always check the Trail Conditions before your mountain bike ride.
When mountain biking, it is important to wear a helmet. It is also recommended to wear close-tip gloves, and for extra caution, wear some knee pads/ elbow pads. Water is a plus to bring with you!
Here is a curated list of mountain bike gear for your first adventure!
Bike: Ask your local bike shop for a recommendation based on your individual needs.
Helmet: Fox Speedframe 5050 Helmet
Gloves: Handup Most Days Gloves (keep it fun and grab a cone at Putz Creamy Whip!)
Knee Pads: Fox Enduro D30 Knee Pads
Elbow Pads: Fox Enduro D30 Elbow Pads
Shoes: Vans Crosspath XC Shoes
Jersey: MXD Surface MTB T-Shirt at Reser Bicycle Outfitters (the most COMFORTABLE jersey I own)
Shorts: Troy Lee Designs Skyline Air Short
Socks: Darn Tough ANYTHING (lifetime warranty socks!)
Water Bottle/ Hydration Bag: Camelback Hydroback Light - great place to keep a trail snack too!)
Multi-tool: Crankbrothers M13
Portable Bike Pump
Of course, these are personal recommendations. This is just a great place to get started. There is a wide variety of apparel and gear that can suit your style and needs.
Stop by any bike retailer in the area to get the gear you need! They can recommend gear that might not be listed here as well! Also, ask your local bike shop to check if you have tubeless tires or not, otherwise, pack a few spare intertubes and pick up some tire levers.
Local Bike Retailers:
Looking for your next Greater Cincinnati mountain biking trail ride? These recommendations are specific to Mountain Biking, but are relative to all forms of use. Trail grading (difficulty) is objective, so take caution with each recommendation. All of the trails are worth a visit, but here is a short list of recommendations depending on your comfort level.
Check out my recommended Beginner Mountain Biking Trails list
Enjoy your riding experience, and remember, it’s always fun to stay safe and progress! Have fun out there!
Check out trails at coratrails.org/trails