WORKING WITH YOUR ALASKAN MALAMUTES - BIKEJORING

[Johan Mostert]

What is Bikejoring?

Bikejoring as a sport is a combination of biking and canicross (where
1 or 2 dogs pull a cyclist). There is more to being a good bike
handler than just staying upright. You should have a dog trained to
lead. A dog darting off to the side for minor distractions can cause a
crash. Start out with a well maintained bike and only one dog. Be
extremely alert to trail hazards. Wear a cycling helmet and cycling
gloves. The maximum for bikejoring would be 2 dogs as controlling more
dogs would become a risk for the cyclist.

What is required?

You need a hip musher belt as the dog(s) will be attached to the
cyclist with a gangline with an integrated shock cord(s) (bungee) for
1-dog or 2-dogs and a long distance harness for the dog(s).

Competition:

Bikejoring events are held in combination with other mushing
activities. Competitors are started individually and the distances run
may range from 5 to 8 kilometres and run over fairly level terrain on
grass, dirt, gravel, sand or similar surfaces. Asphalt and concrete
are avoided.

Events are usually held early mornings over weekends. Competitors must
use the same dog(s) in all heats of the event if held over more than
one single day and the length of the line between the competitor and
the dog is regulated, generally between 2,13 and 3,65 meters.

Safety:

Ambient temperatures exceeding certain limits may be cause for
cancellation of events as the safety of dogs and humans is of
paramount concern.

Fitness:

Ideal for training and keeping your dogs fit in the off-season should
they also be used in other mushing sports principals.