If you are planning on a cycling trip in Phaplu, here is our day-to-day itinerary. 

Day 1: Kathmandu – Phaplu 

We began our journey on the morning of Day 1 with a 9-hour ride from Kathmandu to Phaplu. Approximately 275km away from Kathmandu, Phaplu can be reached by private jeep or local transportation. 

Alternatively, you can also opt for a flight from Kathmandu to Phaplu, however, flights depend on the clarity of the weather and might be unpredictable. Especially during the monsoon. 

After reaching Phaplu, we found accommodation in the Phaplu market, which is the main area of the locality. This is where you will find all the basic needs like accommodations, medical, transportation and so on. We booked our night stay at a local hotel for NRs 450 per night. (approx USD 3.55). 

Check out our article on Best Biking Trails in Kathmandu to explore MTB routes within the city.

Day 2-3: Phaplu – Ratangey Peak – Phaplu 

The next day, we took a shuttle all the way up to Ratangey peak. From there, we explored some biking trails and also discovered new ones. The trails mostly consisted of flowy and technical trails covered in alpine and rhododendron trees. 

We explored about 5 trails out of which we pedaled on 3 trails. It took some time as we went downhill then climbed up the steep hill to descend again. 

At the end of the day, we rode all the way down to the marketplace as the shuttle had left in the morning after dropping us off. 

Day 4: Rest Day 

We took a day to rest up and regain our energy while also exploring the local marketplace. The market is close to the Phaplu airport which is located at an approximate altitude of 2460 meters. You can also hike up to the popular Chiwang Monastery and go for sightseeing in the lush greenery of the surrounding area. 

Day 5 – 6: Phaplu – Ratangey – Phaplu 

We spent the next 2 days riding again at the previously explored trails, riding up to the Ratangey peak on a 4WD then going downhill on the various trails. We also explored as many trails as possible and in total, we discovered 13 mountain biking trails around Phaplu. 

Day 7: Phaplu – Kathmandu

On the final day, we woke up early to prepare for the 9-hour ride back to Kathmandu. 

Phaplu is a wonderful place to go mountain biking. This location is also popular with trekkers who often move towards Pikey Peak from Phaplu or vice versa. Pikey Peak is also a good destination for mountain biking. The surrounding area is full of technical and downhill trails which are great for beginners as well as seasoned riders. 

If you would like to go biking at Phaplu, we organize customized mountain biking tours for individuals and groups. 

Contact Gravity Nepal for mountain biking tours today! 

The post Phaplu Mountain Biking Trip: An Itinerary  appeared first on Gravity Nepal.

Here are a few tips to take care of your mountain bike to keep it in a good condition. And if you require a thorough mountain bicycle service and repair, visit our bike repair shop for the best mountain bike servicing in town! 

Tip 1: Check the brakes 

Your brakes might wear out quickly if you often ride on descents and during muddy conditions. Dirt and grit can get easily stuck on your brakes damaging them over time. 

To check your brakes, check with your eyes, ears and feel. If you hear a gritty sound coming from your brakes, that means the metal of your brakes is hitting the rim and needs to be fixed. When checking your brakes, see if you notice that the grooves on your brake are worn out and almost disappearing, it is time to get them replaced. And thirdly, when you brake, try to feel whether there is a stickiness, it might indicate that your brake may be catching under the rim. 

Tip 2: Check your tires 

Before every ride, it is important to check the air in your tires. Air pressure can change depending on the weather and temperature. Always make sure to check for cracks and tears on the rubber. Especially if you go riding mostly on rough terrains. Know when it is time to change your tires or you can ask your bicycle mechanic nearby. Tires are the main aspects of your bike so make sure that they are always in top condition. It will also help you to learn how to fix a flat tire in case it happens while on the trail. 

Tip 3: Check the bolts and screws 

Make sure that the bolts and screws on your bike are secure but not too tight. You don’t want to lose a screw while you’re far away from any bike servicing center. Scan your bike for any loose screws before heading out. You can also carry some spare nuts and bolts and tools to help you on the trail. Bike multi tools such as the Crankbrothers multi tools are very convenient to carry. 

Check out the must-have mountain biking gears and components.

Tip 4: Always Lube it! 

You always want to make sure that your bike’s moving parts are running smoothly and without friction. For this, you can get lubricants for mountain bikes for all parts of your bike. Before lubricating, you need to make sure that the parts are clean and dry. If your chains and sprockets are not lubricated well or often enough, it can really decrease the lifespan of your bike. Do not lubricate your bike right before the ride as it might attract dirt to stick on the important surfaces. 

Tip 5: Keep your bike well washed and clean

Need we say more? Keeping a well washed, clean bike makes all the difference when it comes to maintaining your bike’s condition. This is because the mud, grit and dirt from all that riding can affect each and every component of your bike, from the pedals to the brakes and everything in between. After each ride, make sure that you clean your bike and keep it well lubricated, ready for the next ride. You can clean a bike by hosing it down with a water pipe and then wiping with a towel. You can also take it to professional wash centers for a detailed cleaning service. 

Check out our article on Best Mountain Biking Trails in Kathmandu

Tip 6: Get your bike serviced by a professional

It is necessary to get your bike serviced after every riding season or in an interval of 6 months. Getting your bike checked by a professional bike mechanic will allow your ride to be thoroughly inspected without missing any parts of the bike. Make sure to get a detailed inspection of the bike and check servicing for forks or shocks, bleeding brakes, tire sealants, lubricate and clean. How often you need to service your bike also depends on how well you maintain it. 

Get your mountain bike serviced by the best bike mechanics in Nepal at Gravity Nepal. You can contact us or visit the store directly to check out our fully-equipped workshop. 

The post Tips To Take Care Of Your Mountain Bike: Bicycle Service And Repair appeared first on Gravity Nepal.

Visit our online store at Gravity Nepal Store for all things related to mountain biking. 

Quick Facts: 

High Season: October – December, January – March

Low Season: April-May  

Mid Season: June-September

Best Time To Go Mountain Biking in Nepal 

October – December

The best time to go mountain biking in Nepal is between October and December, during Autumn till the beginning of winter. This is the time of the year when the skies are clear, you get to see spectacular views, and the weather is moderate and dry. When cycling in this season, you will require warm and weather-proof cycling ride wear as the temperature begins to drop day by day. 

1. Avg. Temperature: 20 – 5°C (Kathmandu)
2. Rainfall: 50 – 13 mm
3. Season: Autumn – early winter 
4. Highlights: 
5. The weather is spectacular at this time of the year as the clouds clear out to make way for blue skies and views of the mountains. 
6. October-November is also the festive season as the nation celebrates Dashain and Tihar, the largest festival of Nepal. 
7. This is also the best time to go trekking, so you can combine your mountain biking trip to Nepal along with trekking 

Planning a mountain biking trip to Nepal? Make sure you get the right gears at the Gravity Nepal store. 

January – March

The coldest months of the season are January and February but it gets pretty warm during the day as most days are sunny, allowing for the perfect condition to go cycling. However, the days are shorter and nights can get pretty cold and can go down to 0°C during peak winter. So, make sure that you plan accordingly. 

• Avg. Temperature: 18 – 0°C (Kathmandu)
• Rainfall: 8 – 20 mm
• Season: Late winter to early spring  
• Highlights: 
• This is one of the peak tourist seasons in the country so popular destinations will be crowded. 
• You can plan for longer trips during this season as there is less chance of rain 
• As spring comes along, the mountain trails will be filled with colorful flowers and trees 

Make sure that you’re prepared with the rights gears. Check out our blog on Essential Gears for Mountain Biking. 

April- May 

April and May is the peak summer season in Nepal. Temperatures are high and there is occasional rainfall. Although it is possible to go cycling in this season, the temperature keeps going higher, and the air becomes dustier and hazier. If you plan to go mountain biking in this season, you will have to rely on the weather forecast for a cool day with clear weather. 

• Avg. Temperature: 29 – 12°C (Kathmandu)
• Rainfall: 35 – 60  mm
• Season: Spring-summer  
• Highlights: 
• Although the weather gets hot and humid in this season, it is still good for riding in the high altitudes such as Mustang where there is no rain. 
• This time of the year is a great time to spot wildlife in the forests and national parks of Nepal. So, you can plan for wildlife tours along with mountain biking.
• You can plan cycling day-trips in the city around the mountain biking trails in Kathmandu. 

June – September 

The monsoon season from June to August may not provide the most favorable conditions for mountain biking. The rain causes many tracks to get muddy and slippery. However, if you are into downhill or enduro, shredding through these challenging trails can be a thrilling and adventurous sport. July is also the time of the year when the major charity cycling event, Kora Cycling Challenge happens in Kathmandu and other major cities of Nepal. This annual cycling event encircles the outskirts of the Kathmandu valley and is a fun way to explore the cycling trails with the local cycling community.  

• Avg. Temperature: 30 – 19°C (Kathmandu)
• Rainfall: 235 – 365 mm
• Season: Monsoon  
• Highlights:
• Kora Cycling Challenge happens during this season when you get to cycle around the hills of Kathmandu’s outskirts. It is also a charity event.
• Although rainy and muddy, this season can be fun for those seeking a challenge. Just make sure to maintain your bike accordingly as rain can cause significant damage to your bikes. Gravity Nepal’s workshop provides international-standard servicing and repairing for mountain bikes. 
• As this is the low season, most tourist destinations will not be crowded and hotels and flights will also be cheap. 

Gravity Nepal is a one-stop-shop for all things related to mountain biking. Visit the Gravity Nepal Store for high-quality and branded MTB products.

The post Best Time To Go Mountain Biking In Nepal appeared first on Gravity Nepal.

Check out mountain biking gears and accessories at Gravity Nepal online store. 

Apparel and Protective Wear for Mountain Biking 

1. Helmet 

It is the most essential item on the list, such that no one should be riding without a protective helmet. Bike helmets can significantly reduce the severity of head injuries during crashes. There are many types of helmets available for all sorts of mountain biking, from downhill, enduro to cross country. The types of helmets available are: 

1. XC: These type of helmets are open-faced and lightweight. These are ideal for long rides as they provide good ventilation. 
2. Full-face: Full face helmets are suitable for downhill riding at very highspeeds and varying terrains. It covers the entire face and includes a visor and chin protection for ultimate safety. 
3. Trail: The trail mountain biking helmets are good not only for the trail but also for general or city riding as they are breathable, protects from the sun and other weather elements and covers ¾ area of the face. 

Check out these helmets for mountain biking available at Gravity Nepal Store. 

2. Protective Glasses 

We cannot stress enough about how necessary protective glasses are. Much like helmets, glasses protect another most essential part of your body, the eyes. If you do not prefer a full face helmet, glasses are a must. While going mountain biking, eye wear helps you see more clearly in the bright sunlight and also protects your eyes from dirt, dust and debris while on the trail. 

Looking for eye wear to go cycling? Check out these biking google and glasses available at Gravity Nepal. 

3. Mask 

A good mask will not only protect you from dust and dirt, it will also help to protect you from harmful UV rays while riding. You can get any type of masks as long they are breathable and provide good coverage. These vibrant masks from Looseriders not only provide you with protection but will also make you look really stylish while riding. 

4. Rain Jacket 

There are two best seasons to go mountain biking in Nepal – the monsoon and the dry season. If you are planning to go mountain biking during the monsoon, you will need a weatherproof jacket that will keep you dry and warm like this Blacklabel Weatherproof jacket by Looseriders. 

5. Gloves 

Mountain biking gloves provide protection and coverage while also providing additional padding. Riding a mountain bike puts more pressure on the hands than compared to city riding. The rough trails and speedy downhill can apply a lot of pressure on the hands as well as scrape your hands in case of a fall. So, for best coverage and a good grip, get riding gloves that provide good padding but also allow you to get a good grip on the brakes. 

Check out these weather-proof gloves for mountain biking and other outdoor adventures. 

6. Knee Pads

Knee pads protect your knees while riding and can prevent serious knee injuries. They also provide support as you continuously pedal your way through the trail. So, make sure to get a pair of knee pads that fit snugly and provide good range of movement. 

Mountain Biking Gears Must-Haves

7. Spare Tubes 

Let’s start with the most important item on the list, spare tubes. When mountain biking through rugged trails, there is a high chance that your bike tire will get punctured, and when that happens, you need to be prepared with spare tubes. You can carry one for a short trip but it is wise to carry more for longer trips. 

Check out genuine tools and gears for mountain biking at our Gravity Nepal store.  

8. Tire Pump 

You will need a tool to fix those spare tubes, so make sure that you carry a tire pump with you. Hand pumps are especially light and easy to carry. 

9. Tire Sealant Tubeless Liquid

If your mountain bike is installed with tubeless tires, carry tubeless tire sealant like the Peaty’s Tubeless Sealant.  

10. Multi-tool 

Carrying a good MTB multi-tool can become handy in many ways. A cycling multi-tool will help to keep you rolling if you need to make adjustments while riding. 

Check out these cycle multi-tools at our store. 

11. Chain Lube

Chain lube will allow your bike to roll efficiently without any friction or resistance. It needs to be applied to make sure that you are able to ride your bike smoothly and safely. Types of chain lubes can depend on the environment that you are riding. Especially for Nepal, when the seasons get either too dry or too wet, you need to make sure that you are taking the right chain lube with you on your trip. 

Not sure which chain lube to get? Try Peaty’s All Weather Link Lube. 

12. Saddle Bag

When carrying all the above tools, it only makes sense that you carry a suitable saddle bag to put them in. Under seat saddle bags help you to carry your essentials for quick access in case you need to make a repair. It also lightens the load on your backpack or, not having to carry a backpack at all! 

13. Water Bottle 

It is important to stay hydrated while on the trail. When riding a bike especially in the mountains and hills of Nepal, you will have limited access to drinking water and might need to travel far to reach the next stop. So, make sure that you carry a water bottle and drink as much water as you can. 

For more mountain biking gears and tools, check out the Gravity Nepal store, a one-stop-shop for MTB aficionados. 

The post 13 Mountain Bike Gears And Tools To Go Mountain Biking In Nepal | Essential Gears, Components, Protection  appeared first on Gravity Nepal.

Nagarkot

Home of the Asian Enduro Series, Nagarkot is one of the favorite spots for downhill and enduro. However, Nagarkot is not only popular with downhill riders, you will find many trails here that are suitable for riders of all levels. From beginner-friendly to pros, the countless trails in Nagarkot will ensure that any rider has an adventurous day. You can start your journey from Nagarkot View Tower and ride downhill from there. In this trail, you will find many technical downhill drops as well as plain, leisurely trails. You can also start your journey from Bhaktapur and ride uphill to the Nagarkot View Tower. The roads aren’t well maintained, so that means you will be riding through a muddy track during monsoon and a dusty one during the dry season.

Check out our blog on the Best Time to go Mountain Biking in Nepal to learn more about the perfect season for an MTB adventure.

Make sure that you have the right gears for mountain biking in Nepal. Check out the Gravity Nepal store for all your essential mountain biking tools, apparel and components.

Shivapuri to Helipad

This trail is great for beginners as it has wide tracks and is easy to locate. Although most of the trail route is ascending, the elevation is not gained too quickly, so it is great for a slow, full-day ride. The trail starts from Budhanilkantha. Once you reach the gate, head southeast along a graveled road that takes you through Shivapuri heights all the way to Helipad. You can either choose to turn back from here or, if you are up for some technical drops, continue towards the descent ahead. This is a steep drop so it is recommended that only experienced riders try this. This is also where you will find the infamous Widow Maker, a steep, technical downhill section of the trail. This trail offers a lot of beautiful, panoramic views of the city among the greenery. However, while riding keep an eye out for jeeps and heavy vehicles passing by as parts of this trail also doubles as a road.

Godavari

Godavari is another great place to go if you wish to try out diverse types of trails. Mountain biking trails in Godavari are especially well-known for their steep and technical trails that are perfect for downhill and enduro. The best downhill trails can be found on Phulchowki Hill. As you might have guessed, these trails are not suitable for beginners. However, beginners will also enjoy themselves as you ride up to Godavari from Satdobato. There are many places of interest to visit in Godavari and it’s best done on a mountain bike. You can also stretch the ride by joining the Lakhuri trail from Godavari. This one is a mix of stairs, switchbacks and single tracks that end up in paddy fields.

Hattiban

Hattiban is a downhill rider’s paradise as it has many trails with big jumps, berms and gaps. Riders will also be delighted to know that there is also a short rock section at the beginning of the trail. You can take on a challenge and ride through the various ascents and downhill trails found here. The trail starts from Hattiban Hill, from here, you can ride downhill all the way to Pharping. This place is so popular with mountain bikers that it is also the place where the National Downhill Championship and many other downhill events take place. These trails are diverse and span from Hattiban all the way to Pharping.

Khokana to Bhainsepati

The trails in Bhainsepati are quite different from other trails on this list. If you are looking for a slow and leisurely ride while enjoying the scenery around you, the Khokana to Bhainsepati trail is the way to go. This trail mostly consists of a single track and it is not suitable to ride during monsoon. This trail spans from Bhainsepati, all the way to Sikali in Khokana. The trails here are grassy and cut through peaceful paddy fields where you can spot locals farming their crops during harvest season ie. October to November. This is a great trail if you wish to visit a traditional town and savour the best local eats while also enjoying an escape from the city.

Kakani to Helipad 

This trail is perfect for a day-long ride. This trail is demanding as it will have you moving up and down throughout the trail. Thus it is great for a cardio-fueled weekend ride. The Kakani to Helipad trail takes you through the scenic route of Kakani and its surrounding forests to Shivapuri National Park to reach the Helipad. Start your journey from Balaju Chowk where you will move ahead towards Trishuli Highway. From Trishuli Highway, you will make your way to Kakani. Riding through Kakani will take you towards Shivapuri National Park, once you enter from there, the forest trail continues onwards. This trail has more descends so it will be a fun and peaceful ride as you pass through trees and occasionally come across magnificent views of the Himalayas.

Gravity Nepal organizes Weekend Rides every Saturday, free of charge! If you would like to join us, call or contact us to get an update on our upcoming ride! 

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