In The Event That...

You Long for a Place Where Spandex Is Not Only Allowed, But Encouraged

by Zach Pontz

"Introduction to Mountain Biking"

Do your weekly biking excursions consist of weaving in and out of traffic, avoiding tanker-sized SUVs and inhaling tons of noxious fumes? We thought so. The urban life can be overwhelming, but rest assured greener pastures (and mountains) are just a highway away.

The fine people at REI are offering an introductory course that breaks down the basics of bipedal transport. Guides take participants to the Fair Hill Natural Resource Management Center, where they teach techniques such as shifting, braking, hill climbing and descent, body position and how to navigate those pesky trails.

"This is a great [class] for somebody who has an interest in mountain biking, but has little spare time to explore it," says outdoor school coordinator Bob Mosher. "It's also a good way to get to know people who have the same interest and passion for it as you do." He means pedaling, not sucking tailpipe.