Customer Reviews

Mountain Bike Like a Champion

5 star:		(16)
4 star:		(4)
3 star:		(3)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I recently got into mountain biking and headed out to the mountains with some friends. I came home a bloody mess and realized I needed some guidance so that I knew roughly what basic mountain bike techniques I should work on. I bought about four or five different mountain bike books, and this was by far the best of the bunch. Why?

Ned Overend is a mountain bike champ, so he definitely knows his stuff. His book is comprehensive, covering everything from trail etiquette and equipment to basic mountain bike techniques and training regimens. The language in the book is straightforward and easy to understand, but it isn't simplified to the point where important details are left out.

The only thing I wanted more of was step-by-step action photos demonstrating various techniques. There are some nice shots in the book, but I would have preferred more sequential photographs for some of the more advanced techniques. I guess I'll have to find a good video for that.

Of course, there's no substitute for hitting the trails to improve your technique, but if you're looking to nail down some of the basics, this is the best mountain bike instructional guide out there, hands down.

Last week I purchased this book and have read it cover to cover. The book is set up so you can read and work on specific aspects of Mountian Biking. The tip sections are extremely helpful as are the drill tips. I would recommend this book to anyone new our experienced. There is a ton of information on how to prpare for races and epic rides.

Whether you are just getting into the sport, or already an avid rider, you will find this book full of useful tips across virtually all dimensions of riding. Ned has done a great job of distilling his years of experience into practical advice that anyone can quickly put to use. Though more photos would be even better, the book is clearly illustrated to ensure that you see each recommendation in action.

I have been mountain biking for more than a year, and the only regret I have about reading this book is that I didn't do it sooner--it would have saved me from a few falls.

Forget your owner's manual, this book should be included with every new mountain bike sold!

What an amazing book! For new and old, beginner or experienced, this book is so useful. Full of invaluable tips and hints, and written in a easily understood style, with lots of real life experiences from the world's most successful mountain biker. It is totally up to date, with advice that pertains to first timers or experienced riders. Ned's down to earth attitude shines right through the book. A must have!

Anyone who has been involved in the sport of mountain biking knows that Ned Overend has played the game better than most. Ned's eloquent explanations coupled with real life "mountain bike racing" anecdotes creates an invaluable book for every mountain bike enthusiast and racer.

Ned is one of the finest examples of a athlete. He is one that just wont quit, he loves the sport, the competition and most of all he challenges himself. Its great when such a athlete stops and takes some time to help out his fans by writing such a helpful book. Some of it most experienced riders will already know, but still the book contains tips and such to fine tune your skills. The biggest help for me was his tips on fitting the bike. After following his tips my S-Works feels and handles all so much better. Its the little things. For the cost of book you cant beat it. Instead of subscribing to a cycling magazine in hope of finding new help, save yourself some money and time and get it all in one source. Ned is a great guy, rides some of the best bikes made, he knows his stuff.. Although he is a busy guy with Xtera and all he even takes some time to meet, email and answer questions. The book itself will make techniques make more sense and easier to concur. Buy it for yourself or a friend, its a great gift!

I bought this book as kind of a manual of how to handle a mountain bike. As such it is not a good book. What you do get is a number of short chapters convering everything from beginners to to racing professional races. Read a chapter and you will pick up some ideas of how to handle your bike. I wish the book was more structured. I've given it three stars because I have not found anything better, but this is really a two star book if that better book is published.

I also bought Mountain Bike Magazine's Complete Guide To Mountain Biking Skills: Expert Tips On Conquering Curves, Corners, Dips, Descents, Hills, Water Hazards, And Other All-Terrain Challenges and I'm giving that book exactly the same review. The coverage is the same.

If you know a better book PLEASE leave a comment.

I ride my mountain bike to work through a wildlife management area daily, 8.7 miles. I applied four of his basic lessons with immediate results: pedal in circles, anticipate and single-shift, look farther ahead of you, and lay off the brakes. On my first day after reading Ned's book I cut two minutes off my time.

Mr. Overend's real-race examples of how his technique improved his performance move the rational explanations on in an entertaining way.

I found this book very usefull, the only catch is the bike slang used to describe every situation, technique, etc. As my nature language is not English it was a lot more difficult to understand every concept explained on the book... maybe for some others this will not be a problem.

Now, this book is great, it will improve your skills and bike control, specially if you aren't and advanced rider. The book is full of tips, personal Ned's experiences (great value) and various drills to help you improve faster. But, although it's a great book this is not a must-have... its simply great-to-have.

I gave 4 stars and maybe it should be 4.5 but not 5 because it lack a little of detail and it contain very few photos. Maybe more experienced riders find usefull a simple explanation (which is simple for him being an experienced rider) but beginners like us need more photos so we can understand right away every concept.

Hope this helps!

Great tips for riders of any level. This book contains descriptions and examples from Ned's years of experience in mountain biking, all very helpful and easy to follow. If you enjoy mountain biking, this book will help you get to the next level. Without a doubt the best [money] you will ever spend for mountain bike equipment. This book should be sold with every mountain bike!!