Downhill (DH) MTB is a discipline of MTB in which a rider either for fun, or in a time trialled event, ride down a course of varying difficulty against other riders. The format of a downhill MTB event follows a similar setup to that of skiing.
Downhill History
The first ever DH race held was won by Alan Bonds on the now well known Repack Road named as hub bearings would heat up and degrade the grease during a race. This was back in 1976 and downhill has changed a lot since that date. DH Races now commonly take place across the world on a weekly basis particularly in the mountain regions of places such as the U.K. or in the summertime at unused ski slopes in countries such as France and Italy. These are certainly not the only countries though, and the Downhill World Cup is one of the most popular MTB events each yearly.
Downhill Bikes
As well as the obvious differences in this style of MTB riding, there are a number of major differences in the bikes and equipment used by the riders. A downhill MTB Frame will be far more specialised that the normal hardtail mountain bike frame you or I used, and will usually have a much more rugged and durable full suspension mountain bike frame. The reasoning for this is the more extreme trails that a downhill MTB will encounter. The choice of having a full suspension bike, which is made to a much better standard than a standard MTB is the weight. Whilst a standard mountain bike would be lower than thirty pounds in weight, DH bikes have been known to go over 40 pounds. This high weight is now however being reduced~coming down~reducing~. Other big changes in the bike can include the use of disc brakes, a high travel suspension fork (five-six inches) and different frame shape.
Pads & Protection
Safety equipment is without question needed when racing in the DH events…. just view a couple of races and you will soon understand that falls, crashes and injuries are common place and a certain drawback this event offers. Body armour, face mask helmets similar those worn in motocross are a must otherwise you will not be allowed on the course or to compete.
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