Taiwan's Untold Glory - Mountain Biking

Little known fact #613: Taiwan is one of the best places in the world to ride a mountain bike. As far as mountain biking in Taiwan is concerned, variety is always on the menu, with something to suit almost any riding preference. Whether you're looking for a perilous technical challenge, a blazing descent down a fire road, twisting singletrack, or a more casual cruise along a quiet mountain road, Taiwan has got it all. This unparalleled diversity is one of the island's best-kept secrets.

With more than twenty million residents crammed onto a tiny island, you might wonder how Taiwan could possibly be a hotbed for mountain biking. The answer lies in the mountains. You can't have mountain biking without mountains, so the simple fact that over 70% of the island is covered with mountains is huge! Formosa's mountains are steep and beautiful, covered by an abundance of trails and access roads. Taiwan's warm climate affords the opportunity for year-round riding. Some will complain that it is too hot or too wet to ride at times, but I believe that riding is always possible, though extra precautions are warranted from time to time.

Taiwan is the world's leading manufacturer of quality mountain bikes; with such a large supply of bikes, people have found a lot of different reasons and places to ride. Many discovered their passion for riding overseas, and are keenly exploring Taiwan's ample riding opportunities. Others simply want to discover Taiwan's abundant natural beauty. Some ride for the social aspect, reveling in the personal interactions that are bound to happen along the way both with riding partners and others on the trail. A significant number of people ride just for the sake of riding. After all, you don't really need a reason to play!

Maybe you're still not convinced. To you, the prospects of great riding in Taiwan may seem like more of a smoggy illusion than reality. However, given the chance, the truth will unfold before your eyes. Riding opportunities abound here. Hikers have carved hundreds of trails into and around the mountains of Taiwan, many of which are ideal for biking. Motorized two and four-wheeled adventurers have slashed their way into the bush, leaving a breadcrumb-like trail for those of us who favour pedal power to follow. Narrow, winding roads leading through the mountains also make for interesting riding; though the riding may not be "extreme", the rugged beauty of the road and scenery is rewarding in itself. Taiwan's three major Cross-Island Highways are excellent examples of glorious riding well suited for mountain bikes.

Whether biking a well-traveled hiking trail on the outskirts of Taipei, dodging cow pies on cattle trails in Kenting, exploring the relative seclusion of the South Cross-Island Highway, or speeding through a tight section of singletrack near Taichung, you will find a few common threads. The bicycle is one of the world's most universal tools and toys. It and its pilot are seemingly recognized and welcomed everywhere regardless of race, language or culture. On a recent ride through the mountains of Southern Taiwan a friendly Taiwanese family welcomed me, a complete stranger, into their home and offered me food and a bed to sleep on. I can't be positive, but I feel that my bicycle had a lot to do with their unusually warm and friendly offer. Whether you are welcomed into a private home, cheered on while climbing a long hill, or you never even see another person on your ride, you will find that in Taiwan your bicycle is a splendid toy and tool.

Unfortunately, some elements of danger are always present in any adventure. Mountain biking in Taiwan is no exception. Heat, humidity and hills are three formidable but manageable foes. A Camelbak-type hydration system is a must; Taiwan's ever-present heat and humidity will spoil your ride and could possibly leave you seriously ill if you aren't adequately prepared. With time and practice, even the most challenging hills can be conquered. And, what goes up must of course come down!

Rocks, roots and roads can throw their share of the unexpected into any ride. A good level of fitness, riding skills and alertness will go a long way towards managing these potential threats. Though some of these factors can pose a serious threat to your safety, a bit of preparation will go a long way to helping to ensure that you have a safe ride. If you are riding in a new area, you can't always count of convenience stores to bail you out, so bring a few litres of water and a snack along with a few tools. The bit of extra weight on your back is worth the load it can take off your mind. Riding with another rider who has experience and knowledge of the local riding area is invaluable. Most shops that sell quality mountain bikes will have group rides on the weekends; these are a great way to meet local riders and find new trails.

Mountain biking in Taiwan is an excellent way to take a break from urban living; it will help affirm that there is much more to Taiwan than simply cities. The Formosan Fat Tire Association website (http://www.formosanfattire.com/) documents some of the best riding around the island in word and photo. The site offers glimpses of some of the island's top locations that are best experienced on a mountain bike. Riding opportunities are everywhere, and the benefits are almost endless. Saddle up and ride on!