Downhill mountain biking is a branch of bicycle sports wherein riders race downhill, starting alone at set intervals, to aim for the best time to finish the entire course. Riders usually reach the point of descent by other means than cycling such as lifts (just like ski lifts for alpine skiing).
The first ever downhill mountain biking time trial was held on October 22, 1976 in a fire road now known as Repack Road in Fairfax, California. Since the sport was new, there were no standard downhill mountain bikes yet and the riders who have participated rode bikes that were known as "klunkers" or "paperboy bikes". The winner of the said race was Alan Bonds, also the only one to have reached the finished line.
Downhill mountain bikes, or simply referred to as downhill bikes, are bicycles that are intended for this kind of sport. These bikes are built to outlast the steep jumps and rough terrains that are usually common in downhill races. These bikes are sturdier than usual mountain bikes and are therefore heavier. The geometry of their frames lean back further compared to other bicycles and feature full suspensions. Typical downhill bikes will also have thicker tires compared to other bicycle counterparts.
Since downhill riding is considered as an extreme sport, extra precaution is very much needed. Riders are advised to wear helmets that cover the whole face, similar to that in motocross. Falling is very common in downhill biking, therefore a body armors is also much needed together with elbow and knee guards to prevent serious injuries.
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