Mountain Bike Racing - I'm a total newbie and have some questions.

I've been Mountain Biking for about 3/4 of a year now, and I really want to get into the sport. But before I start competing, I had a few questions.

What is an xc race? Does that stand for something?

When should I start racing, and what are the normal distances of these races?

What kind of equipment do I need for Cross Country, or Downhill Events?

If anyone could help out with these questions, I would really appreciate it.
Thank you,

Mike.

I've been Mountain Biking for about 3/4 of a year now, and I really want to get into the sport. But before I start competing, I had a few questions.

Let's see if we can clear this up some.


What is an xc race? Does that stand for something?

xc stands for cross country.


When should I start racing, and what are the normal distances of these races?

You should start as soon as possible. The more experience you get the better. Don't worry about your results too much at first, just have fun. Beginner class races can be anywhere from 7 miles to 20 miles or so.


What kind of equipment do I need for Cross Country, or Downhill Events?

For cross country you need a bike, helmet, gloves and some type of hydration (bottles or camelbak). For downhill you need bike, helmet, gloves and some type of body protection should be worn.


If anyone could help out with these questions, I would really appreciate it.
Thank you,

Mike.

Hope this helps some. If you have any more questions just ask them.

Great, Thank you. I can't belive that I didn't figure out that xc meant cross country. :D Anyway....thanks again. I really appreciate it.

What type of bike should I get any way? (hardtail or soft-tail)

Mike,
XC stands for cross country, which means long distance trail riding through wooded off-road terrain. Usually if you're going to race you'd want a light trust worthy bike, with atleast front suspension. Downhill races you want full suspension. You'll need a helmet for XC races, not sure about requierment for DH racing. Four different classes for XC racing: Beginner, Sport, Expert, and Pro-Elite. Its a great sport, you'll have a lot of fun doing it, and you'll meet many great people. I'm glad I could help. If anymore questions, e-mail me.

Semper Fi!
RicBicBiker

It doesn't matter if a helmet is a requirement. Wear one. And wouldn't downhill potentially be more dangerous than XC anyway?

Thanks Again Everyone. I think I'll be able to start now! You've put me on the right path.

I think that was refering to possible requiment of face protection for dh