How to Make the Most of Your Ride: A Beginner’s Guide on How to Use Mountain Bike Gears
Mountain bike gears work by allowing the rider to adjust the resistance of pedaling. The gears are controlled by shifting levers on the handlebars, which move the chain from one gear to another. To use mountain bike gears, start in a low gear for climbing or hill climbing, then shift to a higher gear for flats or downhill terrain. The gear selection depends on the terrain and resistance of pedaling. It is important to maintain a steady pedal speed and avoid cross-chaining (using big gears in the front and back) to preserve the chain and drivetrain.