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New to trail riding. What gear do I need?

I recently bought a Genesis V2100 bike. The reviews say its an ok entry level bike. What type of gear and clothing do I need for trail riding? This bike has a four post rear suspension system. I have been told a full load pannier set up is out. Is there some type of storage option for this setup?

Answer:

This is what i use for trail riding: Giant Talon 0 (2010) Camel Back Mule Topeak Hexus MultiTool (comes with link extractor - Very Handy) Topeak hand pump Trail shorts ( they have a removable pair of padded cycling shorts inside) Wicking T-shirt ( i tend to use the Helly Hanson Dry or Warm depending to temperature) Shimano moutain bike clipped shoes + clipped peddals Buff ( these are really handy in hot or cold temps) A good pair of full fingered trail bike golves ( dont skimp and get a cheap pair) Some kind of eye protection - I use oakley a wires with a polarised lens and thats about it really, i dont bother with too much padding being scratched up bu thorn bushes etc is all part of the fun!
You should get a backpack such as a camelback with water in it to store your gear($25-200). You should have a cell phone if you are going to be riding alone. A helmet($15-50). If the trail is really dusty, you should get sun-glasses($5-200). Definitely get gloves to protect you from calluses($10-50). And shin-guards are kind of optional, I recommend you use them because when your feet slip off the pedals, you almost always rake your legs on the pedals($30-75). Legs bleed very bad too.
Peter It is not about a gear, it is about spinning. Before you hot the trails you need to learn some basic techniques and handling on the roads first so that you have the confidence and skills needed on th the trails. The right hand gears control the rear (wheel) cogs. The larger cogs are easier (lower) and the small ones are the harder (higher) and faster gears. The left hand controls the three gears (chain rings) attached to the pedal. You use the smallest one only for going up steep hills. You use the larger two for the flats and down hills. On a mountain bike I would almost always be in the biggest chain wheel (controlled by the left hand) and I would use the right hand gears to keep my spin rate and pedal pressure. SEE BELOW Pedaling is the most important part of riding. You spin the pedal at a high cadence of 70+ rpm with moderate pedal pressure. You use the gears to maintain that same cadence and pedal pressure through out your ride, on all terrain. Do not 'mash' the pedals pedaling at too slow of a rate in too high / hard of a gear. Read up on spinning and shifting, or ask in this forum. It is the key to your being able to ride distance, with speed, without fatigue. Soccerref

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