Mountain Biking Risk Assessment Template

Typical hazards & measures

• Lack of visibility (e.g., fog or poor lighting) — Postpone rides during heavy fog or low-light conditions. Equip bikes and helmets with front and rear lights for low-visibility rides and ensure riders wear high-visibility clothing. Educate participants on proper lighting techniques and placement.
• Riders straying from designated paths — Clearly mark all designated trails and provide maps or GPS coordinates to participants. Use signage to highlight off-limits areas and environmental risks. Educate riders on the importance of staying on the path to protect the environment.
• Improper gear use leading to loss of control — Educate participants on the importance of using the correct gears for climbs, descents, and flats. Offer practice sessions on gear shifting, and encourage the use of lower gears during challenging sections.
• Clothing getting entangled in the bike — Recommend participants wear close-fitting, specialized cycling clothing that won’t catch in chains, gears, or pedals. Inspect clothing for loose straps or untucked accessories like shoelaces before the ride.
• Non-maintained or faulty bikes — Ensure all bikes are regularly serviced and checked before each ride. Encourage riders to perform pre-ride safety checks on their own bikes, focusing on brakes, tires, and chains.