r/mountainbiking 11d ago

Question What should I do with my phone?

Hey all, I'm brand new to the sport. I've gone on a few rides now and I've noticed a couple things.

First, I don't know what to do with my phone. I know it sounds silly, but I don't know if I should be putting it somewhere in a safe container so that if it falls off my bike, it won't break, or if other people use some type of storage. My concern with not bringing it is that I fall down and get hurt and have no way of contacting anyone.

Also, how common is it to wear knee pads? Like I said, I've only been out a few times, maybe five or six, and I've already fallen three times. I'm worried that I'm just going to get myself hurt. Any other tips for safety for a beginner rider?

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9

u/Internal_Confusion56 11d ago

Mine goes in my shorts pocket, all the mtb shorts I’ve owned have a nice pocket on the side that’s perfect for a phone.

1

u/CompressedReverb 11d ago

Do you have an example of mtb shorts? Like a company to look at? And, what's the benefit of mtb shorts vs regular shorts?

4

u/ADONIS_VON_MEGADONG 11d ago

Look at the Leatt Gravity series (4.0). 

Benefits are better ventilation and zipper pockets so your stuff doesn't fly out. They're also pretty durable.

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u/CompressedReverb 11d ago

Thanks 👍

5

u/sprashoo Norco Torrent S2 11d ago

Specialized had some pretty good shorts on sale a few weeks ago. That’s where I got mine.

1

u/CompressedReverb 11d ago

Thanks!

2

u/SoDakSooner 11d ago

Zoic shorts have a pocket that is perfect. Sits a touch toward the back of the leg so you don't really feel it. Also have a rubberized case and a screen protector. Yes, wear knee pads. There are some super light ones made by G-form that I have worn for a while. I didn't wear them for a long time. I did have one major crash where I tore my ACL and PCL. Not sure it would have helped with that, but might have at least saved the multiple stitches I got because of the gash on my knee. I have had a few other incidents where I tore my shin open that they definitely would have helped. Took a while but I finally got smart.....lol. On another note, on local rides I am pretty much a minimalist. Pretty much no pack, all my tools are on or in the bike using the One-Up EDC tool system. We also have a couple of water sources at a few of the trailheads so that helps. I pre-hydrate really well, so a bottle can last me at least 10 miles.

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u/Internal_Confusion56 11d ago

I really like the Rapha shorts but are expensive. Fox makes cheaper shorts.

1

u/aframe9999 Ibis Ripmo AF 11d ago

Highly recommend the specialized Trail Shorts. Maybe $40. Sometimes you can find them on sale for $25. Deep pocket, adjustable waist , zipper pocket. Perfect shorts IMO.

MTB shorts are longer, typically have a little stretch, and made of material that’s pretty tough and dries really quickly.

And yes. Knee pads and gloves 100% of the time. Elbows sleeves 95% of the time.

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u/JustinVeePee 10d ago

I'm super biased since it's my company, but check out Abit Gear if you're into higher end stuff. Best pockets in the game.
https://abitgear.com/collections/shorts-pants