If you’re a biking enthusiast, you know that many adventures await you on hundreds of trails, roads, and mountain paths. Exploring nature is one of the most valuable benefits of owning a bike, especially when those trips take you to new territories. Whether you’re planning your next ride or brainstorming as you browse the bike shop, keep these terrain ideas in mind.

A Guide to Diverse Bike Terrains

1. Mountain Riding

You’ll encounter all kinds of terrain when you take to the mountains. And when you hop on to a mountain bike, you’ll feel comfortable and completely in control as you make your way down slopes, navigate loose roads, and ride over obstacles like rocks, twigs, and roots. If your goal is to enhance your focus, increase your control on the bike, and enjoy your spectacular surroundings, you’ll appreciate a mountain ride.

2. Gravel Riding

At some point, nearly all biking enthusiasts will find their way onto a dirt road. Gravel biking offers riders eye-catching scenery and minimal traffic. For more experienced riders, the unfinished road also provides more of a challenge when it starts to transition to more mixed terrain. Those changes in texture make the ride a test of endurance and strength.

3. Forest Biking

If the idea of cycling beneath soaring trees and maneuvering your bike over technical trails is appealing, a forest getaway may be right for you. Forest terrain varies dramatically, and you’ll experience the softness of gentle hills, the evenness of plain road, and the challenge of craggy slopes.

Before you take your bike on the adventure of a lifetime, stop by Jim’s Bike & Key Shop for maintenance. Proudly serving Columbia, MO, since 1977, the bike shop also performs repairs and carries an extensive selection of used bikes. You can trust them to inspect your bicycle closely and make sure that it’s safe for you to ride before you head out on the road. Visit their website to browse their services, or give them a call at (573) 442-7011.