Mexico

• Try to line up your trip timing with cultural events in Mexico. The real beauty of a mountain biking trip in another country is to truly experience the culture. The Day of the Dead is a popular time to take a mountain bike trip to Mexico, and tends to book up quickly. Other possible opportunities would be tours of Mezcal operations, Lucha Libre fights, and tours of local food markets. 
• If you aren't flying with your bike, you'll want to make sure you're able to source a quality rental when you arrive. Most high quality bike tour operators in the area have taken care of this for you. But depending on the region, it might be harder to find the quality of bike you're looking for, as the fleets at bike shops are good quality, but resorts might have less selection, even though there are mountain bike trails in the area. Also, be sure to pack your own repair kit, bring your pedals, shoes, helmet and a copy pairs of clothes with you if you plan to rent. 
• Decide if you are booking a private group or joining a trip. Private groups have their advantages, and typically require 4-6 riders minimum. You'll have more control over the type of riding the group will do over the course of the trip. If you plan to join a trip with preset dates and a group you don't know, be sure to be honest and clear about your ability level and what you are hoping to accomplish/what you are comfortable with. This will help our team better match you with the right group and trip for you. 
• If you don't speak Spanish (or even if you do), go with a bike tour operator or local guide. They can help get you access to restaurants and places that most tourists won't venture. Plus the ability to easily read trail signs and already having local knowledge about the routes is a huge plus. 

There is a reason why film crews and pro athletes choose Mexico as a destination for mountain bike films. The scenery is spectacular along the coast, and the trails in the mountains are flowy and grippy. Whatever kind of riding you are looking for, Mexico has something to get you stoked. People rave about their experience riding in Mexico. The best part is that any time of year (with the exception of rainy season in some areas) you can find riding. 

The weather is the other obvious perk. In the fall and spring are great options along the coast, with warmer weather where you can combine some time on the beach with some time on the bike. The dry season runs from December to April, when there is virtually no rain. December to February are the cooler months, so pack a layer or two, but are optimal for riding more inland. The temperature can still be as high as 80 degrees in the dry season, so it's not exactly "cold weather riding." The wet season lasts from May until October, but you are usually safe going in the early and late part of the wet season. 

The culture and food is a big reason to head to Mexico for your next bike trip. Each region in Mexico has its own unique cuisine, but if you're a lover of tortillas, hot sauce, fresh fruit and vegetables, and tequila, you'll be incredibly happy. In Oaxaca, you can sample Mezcal directly from the distillery, and even tour agave fields and see how it's prepared. Along the coast, you can expect fresh seafood dishes. During the time when you aren't mountain biking, you can explore nearby towns and cities, visit open air markets, and even time your trip to attend festivals or events.