Five tips for first-time mountain bikers

We spoke with the project manager for biking development in Myrkdalen, Joar Wæhle, to get some answers.

1. Near Myrkdalen Hotel, there's an 850 sqm pump track. Could you explain what a pump track is and what kind of bike would work best here?

A pump track is a compact loop with various features, including rollers and turns. It can be built using various materials, but we’ve chosen asphalt, which works really well for all kinds of wheels.

You can use everything from skateboards, scooters, and tricycles to regular bikes on this track.

As for cycling, riding a pump track is excellent practice. You’ll learn to properly position yourself on the bike and build speed and momentum without pedalling. These skills are incredibly useful when transitioning to natural trails. While all types of bikes work well, many feel they achieve higher speed and better response from the surface when using a bike without suspension, such as a BMX, hardtail, or dirt bike.

2. Is mountain biking just for daredevils, or can you bring the family on a biking holiday to Myrkdalen?

Trails specifically designed with different skill levels in mind make mountain biking perfect for the whole family. Like skiing, where some people prefer the children's slopes and others prefer steep mountainsides, the key to enjoying cycling is finding your comfort zone and riding trails suited to your ability.

Myrkdalen's biking opportunities are primarily aimed at families looking for an active holiday on two wheels.

In addition to the pump track, there's a customised trail with various features and difficulty levels for kids and beginners located just above Myrkdalen Hotel. Close to the ski bridge over RV13 towards Årmotslia, you'll also find a new jump line with varying difficulty levels.

A new blue flow trail will open in autumn 2022 in the same area as the jump lines. This trail, featuring bermed turns and smaller jumps like "tabletops," is designed for a broad audience. Speed and flow are the focus here. Looking ahead, the goal is to develop a "red" trail that offers more technical challenges. Eventually, Årmotslia will become a trail centre with something for everyone.

3. What kind of clothing do you need for mountain biking?

There’s a big difference between what you must wear in the high mountains and the lowlands. On warm days, shorts and a moisture-wicking T-shirt are usually enough in the lowlands. A wool base layer and a thin, windproof, and waterproof jacket are ideal on colder or wetter days.

In the high mountains, long trousers are advisable, stretchy hiking trousers work well—and it’s a good idea to pack extra layers like a wool base layer, neck warmer, and gloves. We recommend wearing protective gear such as helmets, knee pads, and elbow guards for all types of mountain biking.

4. Electric biking is a growing trend – what can Myrkdalen offer?

The conditions for electric biking are perfect. An electric bike provides fun and easy access to Vikafjellet. Here, you'll find varied terrain and many beautiful routes on gravel roads in stunning nature. If you want to try electric biking, you can easily rent one from Myrkdalen Sport.

The gravel roads in Myrkdalen and on Vikafjellet are highly recommendable, and it's simply incredible to feel the bike's power going up the hills.

5. Finally – why should people try mountain biking?

Mountain biking provides stimulation through various types of challenges. This, in combination with exercise and nature experiences, gives a perfect sense of achievement – no matter what level you are at!

To become more confident, we recommend a course to learn basic techniques. Throughout the summer, certified instructors offer various types of classes suitable for both beginners and advanced riders.