roads in winter conditions is not the most enticing of prospects. What you need is an alternative, something to stimulate the brain and, more importantly, get the legs turning. That something is mountain biking. A common misconception with off

The term ‘mountain’ bike covers a multitude: cross country (XC), free ride, downhill, and then there’s hardtail suspension (just like it sounds), full suspension, even rigid-fork bikes. As for wheels, the 26-inch variety are the most popular but 29

, however, is its versatility: the basic package comes with D-loops for two bikes but this can be converted to take three or four bikes, and you can also buy different D-loops for children's bikes or to fit wider mountain bike tyres.Contact: www.pendle-bike.co.uk

, however, is its versatility: the basic package comes with D-loops for two bikes but this can be converted to take three or four bikes, and you can also buy different D-loops for children's bikes or to fit wider mountain bike tyres.Contact: www.pendle-bike

bike-handling skills off-road. "Triathletes who train on their mountain bikes in winter gain a huge advantage over those who simply stick to the roads," says Rich Martin, director of Cyclewise Training. One trick Martin uses to develop triathletes' bike

, it will be your quickest option), you could also try ‘hybrid' bikes. They offer the smooth ride of a road bike with the comfort and versatility of a mountain bike. One big benefit of choosing a hybrid bike is that you'll be able to train off-road, thus avoiding

Sombrio Forensic gloves, £26These super-thin gloves are a great all-rounder and they're perfect for the transition from autumn to winter. They might be aimed at mountain-bike riders but they're great for triathletes, too. The tough, hardwearing

someone or further behind."First Things FirstYou need a mountain bike with a set-up that suits you, says Phil Dixon, the British Cycling Federation's Olympic Mountain Bike Coach. "It's worth going into a shop and asking them to help you get everything just

to the bemusement of the Soho media types.My previous cycling experience has been on clunky, budget mountain bikes, so the handling of this lightweight beauty is a dream. It's clearly a comfortable companion to really rack up the training miles with. I can't help

 Sombrio Forensic gloves, £26These super-thin gloves are a great all-rounder and they're perfect for the transition from autumn to winter. They might be aimed at mountain-bike riders but they're great for triathletes, too. The tough, hardwearing