Even before people have had a go, the words "downhill mountain biking" are enough to scare away half the potential riders...dizzying jumps, mud, spectacular crashes – the image is so ingrained that we forget to look at what lies behind it.

Good news: the reality is far more nuanced than what Red Bull shows you. We’re debunking the five most persistent myths, so that DH mountain biking can finally be associated with excitement rather than apprehension.

“One fall and it’s all over for me”

Let’s be honest, falling is all part of the game, just like when you’re skiing, cycling or in life in general. The Bike Park works exactly like ski slopes, and no one’s going to put you on a black run on your first day. Add to that a full-face helmet and protective gear covering practically your whole body, and that dreaded fall turns into a fit of laughter shared with your group.

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“I'll be completely worn out after 10 minutes”

Good news for your legs: you don’t need the stamina of a marathon runner – the ski lifts do all the hard work of getting you uphill. That said, downhill mountain biking does require a bit of strength in your arms and shoulders to absorb the impacts, but it’s nothing you can’t handle with the right kit and a bit of technique. If the idea of cycling without getting tired really appeals to you, an e-MTB is just the thing for you.

"You’ve got to have all the pro kit"

A classic misconception that puts far more people off than it should… Of course, riding your own bike has its charm and advantages, but it’s by no means essential for having a great day out. The equipment available for hire is top-notch, selected by experts who know the Bike Park inside out and know exactly what gear to recommend based on what you plan to do.

 

"I’m too old to be a stuntman now"

Downhill mountain biking isn’t just for young people. On the trails at Méribel Bike Park, you’ll come across plenty of families and groups of friends who are no longer in their twenties, and who are simply looking to have a bit of fun without having to go to extremes. Our young people in their prime are there too, but they’re far from having a monopoly on the fun!

"Without a coach, it’s impossible to improve beyond the basics"

Wrong. You can certainly improve on your own by starting on the easiest runs, then moving on (after a fair few falls) to more challenging terrain. With time, motivation and a good dose of resilience, it’s entirely possible to reach a top level as a self-taught skier.

But if the aim is to move on to red and black runs without ending up off-piste straight away, Méribel’s qualified instructors make all the difference. Getting the right reflexes from the outset not only saves a considerable amount of time, but also means you’ll progress without picking up bad habits that’ll follow you on every run. And, between you and me, being coached by someone who knows every bend in the Bike Park like the back of their hand is still the best shortcut to the thrills you’ve come here for.

So, are you convinced?

At the end of the day, downhill is all about thrills and freedom, and everyone experiences them in their own way. Some will need the G Force to really get their adrenaline pumping, whilst others will be happy with a simple ride on an e-MTB along the ridges. The Méribel Bike Park was designed precisely for this purpose: to cater for everyone, from families to experienced riders, so next time, forget the excuses and come and see for yourself!

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