Olympic Games
Mountain biking originated in the USA during the 1970s with people who modified their bikes to be able to handle off-road conditions. Specialised bikes that could withstand impacts experienced during riding were subsequently created. In the 1980s Mountainbiking became a recognized sport. The first World Championships were held in 1990 and since 1991 a World Cup Series has been established.
Mountainbike Cross Country (MTB XCO) was added as a discipline to the Olympics since the 1996 Games in Atlanta.
