Mountain Biking Brief History

Most of the credit to the origin of mountain bikes isconsidered the biggest innovation in mountain biking
given to a group from Marin County, California, USAexperience. Front suspension introduced in the late 80's
during the 1970s. They even had their own racesincreases control and makes the ride more
called Repack Downhill. They developed their owncomfortable. Rear suspension was proven to give
version of bicycles though big tires and others wereriders more control too.
later innovations. But they did spawn all of mountainDisk brake is a device that slows or stops the rotation
biking that we know today. A group of black soldiersof the wheel while it is in motion. It was discovered in
from Missoula, Montana called the 25th Infantry Buffalothe early 90's. Frames are now made of carbon fiber
Soldiers (1980's) was one of the earliest references.and advanced aluminum alloy which are light yet strong
The Velo Cross Club Parisian made remarkableand corrosion-resistant. The indexed shifting, the
modifications of having handlebar shifters, framethreadless headset and better bottom brackets have
gussets and some suspension.made bikes longer-lasting and easier to work on. Year
The name "mountain bike" first appeared in print inafter year more innovations were introduced that
1966 as "mountain bicycle". The first mountain bikershave resulted in increased performance, longer part life
were downhillers. They would bring their bikes to aand significant weight reduction.
mountain carried by a truck, and they would raceToday, these bicycles are much lighter, faster, reliable
downhill. The first mass production of bicycles was theand expensive. The transformation continues and
Specialized Stump jumper produced in 1982. Thesafety is the top priority. Additional gears made bikers
introduction of front and rear suspensions can betravelled terrains and conquered mountain heights.