Now that it gets dark earlier, fewer and fewer people go mountain biking. But is that really necessary? You can simply keep riding, as long as you have the right lighting to see the trails perfectly. Below we have collected a top 10 of reasons why you should keep riding. Even if it is dark ;)
10 reasons to go mountain biking in the dark!
Short answer
Why keep mountain biking when it gets dark early?
Mountain biking in the dark makes you a better rider, turns old trails into new ones and gives you empty trails without walkers or horse riders. With the right lighting you simply keep riding when it gets dark earlier, and that stretches your biking season.
- Your field of view shrinks, so your concentration goes up and you learn to react faster.
- The chance of running into other riders, pedestrians or horse riders is small.
- In summer it is lovely and cool at night or very early in the morning.
- Riding together is more fun, more sociable and above all safer in the dark.
- A good set of MTB lights is a must.
1. Mountain biking in the dark makes you a better rider
In the dark your field of view shrinks to the patch just in front of your front wheel. That forces you to ride the trails in a new way. Your concentration goes up, and spotting obstacles like branches and potholes on the path has never been more important. You learn to react faster to your surroundings and to obstacles, and your riding adapts to the situation more quickly.
2. Old trails become new again!
If you are anything like me, you sometimes get fed up with riding the same routes. But riding in the dark turns those boring old trails into new ones. A completely different experience, as if you are riding through a dark tunnel. The adrenaline pumps through your body again on that dull singletrack you have already ridden 1,000 times.
3. Dark trails are empty trails
Do you like riding in the middle of nowhere and not being bothered by other riders who want to pass or come towards you? When you ride in the dark, the chance of meeting them is small. The result is a faster ride (yes, even in the dark!)
4. Lovely low temperatures
Especially in summer it is great to ride at night or very early in the morning. It is lovely and cool, and in the morning you can often enjoy a beautiful sunrise!
5. Break open your riding schedule
If you have a family, for instance, you know you cannot spend that much time on the trails anymore. That is why riding in the dark is a lifesaver in many cases. Kids in bed, and off you go! That leaves you more time for other things during the day!
6. A good excuse to buy new gear!
I know, I know, mountain biking is not just riding a bike with gears. Sometimes it is simply fun to play with new toys. What absolutely cannot be missing from your already far too large collection is an MTB LED lighting system. Riding with a bucketload of light is seriously cool and a proper kick. You can also go out and score a new outfit, so you do not freeze in the cold winter ;-)
7. Riding at night is more sociable
Riding in the dark is more dangerous than in daylight, that much is clear. That does not mean you can no longer go alone. But it is more fun, more sociable and above all safer to ride with two or more. Afterwards you all grab a nice beer and a pizza. Now the evening is complete, right?
8. Steer clear of conflicts with other trail users
Ever heard of people who go "night hiking"? I suspect they exist, but luckily we never see them. The chance of meeting pedestrians on the trail is close to zero. So no horse riders and no walkers with dogs to deal with.
9. Behold the light show
Here in Eindhoven we are used to quite a bit when it comes to light shows. We have the famous light route and the by now world-famous Glow. But the dedicated mountain biker gets warmed up more by a raw night biking session. When you see the light show of your own MTB lights shining through the branches of the trees at night, you get a properly satisfied feeling!
10. Extend your biking season
If you are used to riding for a few hours after work, winter and its short days can ruin the plan. A good set of mountain bike lighting can help. Don't be a caveman ;-)
Also read how to prepare best with the tips for an MTB night ride.
Frequently asked questions about mountain biking in the dark
Do you become a better rider by riding in the dark?
Yes. Your field of view shrinks to the patch just in front of your front wheel. Your concentration goes up, you learn to react faster to obstacles and your riding adapts to the situation more quickly.
Do you meet fewer people on the trails in the dark?
The chance of meeting other riders, pedestrians, horse riders or walkers with dogs is small. The result is a faster ride.
Is it better to ride alone or together in the dark?
Riding in the dark is more dangerous than in daylight. Going alone is possible, but with two or more it is more fun, more sociable and above all safer.
What do you need to mountain bike in the dark?
The right lighting, so you can see the trails perfectly. A good set of MTB lights helps you keep riding in winter too, when the days are short.
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