Mountain Biking And Beer: A Perfect Pairing

Mountain biking and beer drinking are two great tastes that taste great together. But how do mountain bikers drink beer? The answer is: very carefully. While it's not recommended to get wasted while riding, a beer or two on a casual trail ride with friends is a time-honoured tradition. And it turns out that beer might even be good for you, with some studies showing it to be an effective post-ride sports drink.

Mountain bikers drinking beer during a ride

Mountain biking and beer drinking are almost synonymous, and it is a time-honoured tradition for mountain bikers to enjoy a beer during a ride. While it is important to note that alcohol can be dangerous when combined with mountain biking, a casual trail ride with friends is the perfect time to crack open a cold one. Here are some tips for mountain bikers drinking beer during a ride:

Pick the Perfect Spot

It is important to stop and drink somewhere with a good view. Ideally, stop at the top of a hill, take in the scenery, and enjoy your beer. This can also be a great opportunity to take a break and socialise with your fellow riders.

Pack It Right

When packing beer for a mountain bike ride, it is important to keep it cool and protected. Insulated lunch bags or backpacks can help keep your beer cool and prevent punctures. If riding without a bag, you can put a beer in your middle jersey pocket with a beer cosy to keep it cool and snug. For taller bottles, you can use a bottle cage, but be sure to drink a bit first so you can get down the trails without spilling. Invest in a good cage to ensure your beer doesn't fall out.

Plan Ahead

If you're organising a ride with friends, you can stash beer along the trail. Look for places that are out of direct sunlight and where you can cover the beer with rocks to keep it cool and hidden. This way, you and your friends can enjoy a refreshing beer without having to carry it with you.

Choose Wisely

When it comes to choosing the right beer for your ride, it's important to consider the weather and the difficulty of the trail. In the winter, you can go for heavier beers, while in the summer, lighter and more refreshing beers are a better choice. If you're tackling a big hill, avoid heavy IPAs, as they can weigh you down.

Keep It Classy

While it's fun to enjoy a beer during your ride, remember to keep it classy. Instead of just drinking beer, bring some food to enjoy as well. Fancy cheeses, sliced meats, canned fish, or even a whole chicken can elevate your mid-ride break and provide you with much-needed energy for the rest of the trail.

Remember to always drink responsibly and be mindful of how much you are consuming. Stay safe, and enjoy the ride!

The best beers to drink after a ride

Mountain biking and beer go hand in hand. It is a time-honoured tradition to enjoy a beer during a casual trail ride with friends, and it may even reduce your cancer risk. But what are the best beers to drink after a ride?

Firstly, it is important to consider how you will be carrying your beer. If riding in the summer heat, it is recommended to carry your beer in a backpack with a small insulated lunch bag to keep it cool and protected. You can also ride with taller beers in a bottle cage, but be sure to use a good cage so as not to drop anything.

When it comes to choosing the right beer, it is generally recommended to go for a lighter, more refreshing option, especially during the warmer months. A heavy IPA, for example, may not sit well in your stomach after a strenuous ride. Non-alcoholic and low-alcoholic beers can be good options, as they have similar rehydration percentages to water and most sports drinks. If you're craving a stronger beer, just be sure to pair it with some salty snacks to help with rehydration.

Some specific beers that are popular among the mountain biking community include:

• Deschutes Chainbreaker White IPA: A crisp and delicious brew with a traditional wit base and a hoppy IPA kick.
• New Belgium Fat Tire: A sweet and crowd-pleasing amber ale with toasty malt flavours.
• Flying Bison Brewing Company Rusty Chain: A bitter amber ale that stakes its claim to the tastes of "cyclists and beer aficionados alike."
• Squatters Full Suspension Pale Ale: A light and bitter beer with a 4.0% ABV, making it perfect for easy drinking after a ride.
• Boulder Brewing Company Singletrack Rye Pale Ale: A nutty APA created as an "homage to the two-wheeled athletes and weekend warriors pounding the narrow trails of our backyard mountains."

So, the next time you head out for a ride, be sure to pack some refreshing beers to enjoy along the way or as a reward for your efforts! Just remember to always drink responsibly and never get wasted while riding.

The health benefits of drinking beer after a ride

Mountain biking is a fun and challenging activity that can push your body to its limits. So, what could be a better way to unwind and relax after an intense ride than cracking open a cold beer? As it turns out, there are several health benefits to drinking beer after a mountain bike ride.

Firstly, beer can help with hydration, which is crucial after a strenuous activity like mountain biking. While it may seem counterintuitive, studies have shown that beer is actually more effective at rehydrating the body than plain water or sports drinks. The sugars and salts in beer help the body absorb fluids more efficiently, and the addition of sodium can further enhance its rehydration properties.

Secondly, beer can aid in muscle recovery. The antioxidants in beer, similar to those found in red wine, help to repair and soothe sore leg muscles after a tough ride. Beer also has pain-relieving qualities, which can be beneficial for easing post-ride muscle aches and pains.

In addition to its physical benefits, drinking beer can also have positive effects on the social aspect of mountain biking. It is a social activity that allows riders to bond and create connections with fellow cyclists. Meeting at a brewery or sharing a beer after a ride can foster a sense of community and camaraderie among riders.

Lastly, beer can provide several other health benefits when consumed in moderation. These include stronger bones, a healthier heart, improved brain health, and increased muscle tone and bone strength.

However, it is important to note that excessive alcohol consumption can have negative effects on the body and impair recovery. Therefore, it is crucial to practice moderation and ensure proper hydration and nutrition before and after drinking beer.

How to carry beer while mountain biking

There are several ways to carry beer while mountain biking, depending on the amount of beer you want to bring, the type of bike you have, and your personal preferences. Here are some options to consider:

Backpack with an Insulated Lunch Bag

If you plan to carry multiple beers, using a backpack is a good option. Mountain biker and author Molly Hurford recommends using a backpack with a small insulated lunch bag to keep your beers cool and protected during the summer heat. This method helps prevent punctures and reduces the chances of your beers getting "shook up".

Jersey Pocket with a Beer Cozy

For those who prefer to ride without a backpack, you can use the middle pocket of your jersey to carry a beer. However, it is essential to use a beer cozy to keep the beer cool and snug. This method works well for taller beers, but remember to drink a bit out of the bottle before hitting the trails to avoid spills.

Bottle Cage

A good bottle cage can securely hold your beer, especially when paired with a beer cozy. Matty Bee, an expert mountain biker, recommends using a King Cage titanium cage to prevent drops. This option is ideal for taller bottles, but remember to drink a bit before riding to avoid spills.

Bike-Mounted Six-Pack Beer Holder

If you want to transport a six-pack of your favourite microbrew to your destination, consider a bike-mounted saddlebag. These saddlebags are typically made of waterproof canvas and velcro and can be slung over your top tube. They provide a stable and secure way to carry your beers without taking up backpack space.

Other Options

• Stainless Steel Flask: A standard stainless-steel flask is a ubiquitous option for carrying liquor. It comes in 8- or 12-ounce versions and can be easily stored in a hydration pack. Look for a high-quality flask like the Stanley flask to avoid leaks and punctures.
• Nalgene Plastic Flask: If you want to avoid the metallic aftertaste of stainless steel, consider a Nalgene Plastic Flask. This 12-ounce flask is made of polyethylene and features a polycarbonate sleeve for insulation and protection. The cap doubles as a 1-ounce shot glass.
• MiiR Stainless Steel Growler: For those who don't want to bother with a cooler, the MiiR Growler is a great option. It keeps your beer chilled for up to 24 hours and can be easily transported with the Growler Cage, specifically designed for bikes.

The best locations for mountain biking and drinking beer

Mountain biking and beer drinking are two activities that go hand in hand. So much so that many mainstream craft brewers have named their creations after trails and bikes. And, after a long day of biking, there's nothing more rewarding than a cold beer.

Bend, Oregon

Bend offers a wide range of trails with gorgeous views in a quaint mountain town. The town is fun and offers unique opportunities like the Cycle Pub, where you can legally bike, drink, and tour the town with a group of friends.

Some of the breweries in Bend include:

• 10 Barrel Brewing Co.
• Bend Brewing Co.

Boise, Idaho

Boise has a mix of intermediate-level trails and spectacular views. The city has its own Boise Ale Trail, featuring some of its best breweries: Tablerock and Sockeye.

Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville has an up-and-coming craft brewery scene with two dozen breweries, and even more trails to explore. If you're looking for a town with a vibrant bike culture and a growing number of breweries, Asheville is the place to be.

Some of the notable breweries in Asheville include:

• Asheville Brewing Co.
• Wicked Weed Brewing

Park City, Utah

Park City is a top mountain biking destination, offering a vast array of singletracks to explore. Just a short distance away in Salt Lake City, you'll find several breweries to quench your thirst after a long day of riding.

Some of the breweries in the Salt Lake City area include:

• Redrock Brewery
• Uinta Brewing Co.

Fort Collins, Colorado

Fort Collins boasts an impressive number of trails and breweries, with almost 30 listed trails and 31 breweries. You could almost hit a different brewery for every trail you ride in this town!

Some notable breweries in Fort Collins include:

• Odell Brewing Co.
• Funkwerks

Sedona, Arizona

Sedona offers steep and technical riding, with a vibrant bike culture and a growing number of breweries and dining options.

Some dining and drinking spots in Sedona include:

• Famous Pizza, which offers a great craft beer selection.
• Oak Creek Brewery and Grill, which has amazing food but disappointing beer, according to some.
• Sedona Spoke & Wheel, where you can enjoy happy hour all night long with discounted beer and appetizers if you arrive on your bike.

So, whether you're looking for breathtaking views, challenging trails, or a vibrant beer culture, these destinations are sure to offer an unforgettable experience for any mountain biker who appreciates a good brew.

Frequently asked questions