Enjoy your ride, respect your spot The rules of Les Gets Bike Park

Going all out, stringing runs together, improving on the features and making the most of every banked turn: that’s the whole spirit of a day at Les Gets BikePark. But to ensure riding remains a pleasure, there are a few rules to follow.

Get your bike ready, know your limits, stay on the trails, look after the mountain and ease off when you start to tire: adopting the right habits doesn’t mean riding any less hard – it means riding for longer, more calmly and respectfully.

So, are you ready to look after your playground?

Discover the Bikepark in Les Gets

5 tips for making the most of it Make the most of your day’s mountain biking at Les Gets Bike Park

1. Set off on a bike that’s up to the task: Don’t just carry out a quick check before you set off – keep an eye on how the bike feels as the day goes on. An unusual noise, a brake lever that feels spongy or a wheel that’s developing play should prompt you to stop before the problem gets worse.

2. Build up the intensity gradually: The first few runs are as much about waking your body up as they are about getting back into the swing of things on the bike. Start off without pushing for speed; let your arms, legs and concentration get into the swing of things, then gradually pick up the pace.

3. Fit your protective gear correctly: Simplywearing protective gear isn’t enough – it must be positioned correctly, snug without restricting your movements, and suited to your riding style. Check it regularly, especially after a fall or a long series of descents.

4. Choose your run based on how you’re feeling: Your technical ability isn’t the only factor to consider. Fatigue, the weather, the condition of the terrain and your confidence on the day should also guide your choice of run. Knowing when to change your line or skip a feature is just as much a part of riding well.

5. Take a look around before you set off: Onyour first run, spot the technical sections, the landings, the escape routes and the places where you can stop without getting in the way of others. Reading the track properly will then allow you to ride more smoothly, more calmly and with greater control.

The best day at the bike park is one where you make progress, have fun and head home wanting to do it all again.

First descentfull recognition

~~First run, full throttle.~~

A run you’re familiar with may have changed since you last rode it. The weather, repeated braking, damp conditions, maintenance work and the number of riders all alter the terrain every day.

On your first run, ride at a moderate pace. Observe the lines, spot the features, take-offs, landings, tree roots, wet patches and any changes to the track layout.

Even if you’ve already ridden the track the day before, the first run is still a reconnaissance run.

You can then gradually increase your pace depending on your ability, your fitness level and the conditions on the day.

Some serious freeriding?Turned round

~~Quick check: big freeride.~~

A visible track through the grass or in the forest isn’t necessarily an authorised trail. Straying from marked routes may take you onto private property, into a protected natural area or into a dangerous area that hasn’t been developed for mountain biking.

If you accidentally leave the track or come across a closed area, turn back and rejoin the official route.

Don’t take shortcuts, don’t cut corners and don’t ride on a closed trail. A closure may be due to works, a hazard, weather conditions or the protection of a sensitive area.

Fancy a spot of fun?Respect him

~~Ride the spot.~~

The Les Gets Bike Park is set in the heart of a vibrant mountain environment. The wildlife, flora, forests, mountain pastures and private land you ride through are all part of this playground.

To help preserve it, stick to the designated trails, don’t litter and avoid deliberate skids that unnecessarily damage the trails.

Respecting the park also means respecting the work of the teams who build and maintain the trails throughout the season. Every turn, every feature and every braking zone requires time, equipment and regular maintenance.

The Bike Park is not a rule-free zone. It is a shared playground that can only continue to develop if everyone looks after it.

Being respectfulthat’s what being cool is all about

~~Being a rebel is cool.~~

Whether on the slopes or in queues, respect is part of the ride.

Adjust your speed to suit the number of people on the slopes and keep a safe distance from the rider in front of you. They may slow down, fall or change direction at any moment.

Don’t put pressure on a slower rider. Where possible, wait for a clear and safe section of the track before setting off again or overtaking. Similarly, let faster riders pass without stopping in the middle of the track.

If you fall, clear the track as soon as your condition allows. If a rider is injured, secure the area without putting yourself at risk and alert the bike park staff.

Also follow the instructions given by bike patrols, piste officers, lift operators and maintenance teams.

The future of mountain bikingis on the track

~~There’s no future on the track.~~

Going off-piste, creating your own trails and riding in restricted areas damages the natural environment and may jeopardise the permits required for the bike park to operate.

Conversely, sticking to the marked trails helps to preserve the mountains, private property and the sport of mountain biking in the long term.

Every rider therefore has a role to play. By staying on the trails and behaving responsibly, you’re making a direct contribution to the future of the bike park.

Final descentgives a gentle

~~Last run – give it your all.~~

By the end of the day, tiredness can sometimes creep up on you without you realising it. Your arms feel heavier, your legs react more slowly and your concentration wanes.

It’s often during the final run that you want to treat yourself one last time. However, this isn’t the best time to try a new section, chase your best time or ride beyond your limits.

Listen to your body, keep a safety margin and adjust your speed. A more leisurely run won’t spoil your day. A bad fall, on the other hand, certainly will.