"The difference between genius and stupidity is that genius has its limits." Albert Einstein.

Mountain biking is a fantastic sport. It is low impact on your knees, very cardiovascular and can be done until you're old. Mountain bike riding can also be a very dangerous sport and it is important to follow proper safety rules.

• Always wear a helmet. "Only bone headed riders don't need them."
• Always be in control. Don't go faster than what you can handle. The brakes on your bike are installed for a reason - use them.
• Always follow the rules of the road. You cannot win in a collision against a car, look where you are going and follow the rules, give proper had signals to show your intentions. 
• Always be visible. Don't go on the road after sunset without a headlight, a full set of reflectors and a red flashing light.
• Always go with a buddy. Never go on a practice run by yourself, go with somebody that can help you if you get hurt.
• Always carry emergency tools. Expect a flat, therefore carry a spare tube and a pump or CO2 cartridge to inflate it, a patch kit, tools to remove the wheel and make sure you know how to do it.
• Use a light when its dark. I thought this one was obvious but most evenings on my ride home I see young people without lights AND without reflectors. There is no way that a car can see you unless it is a very well lit street.