When you're in the middle of a great ride, you're having too much fun to think about muscle pain. That's one of the best things about mountain biking: even when it hurts, the fun factor outweighs everything else. And memories of landing a huge jump or tearing up some single-track last a lot longer than memories of burning lungs and shaky quads.

But the morning after? Well, that can be a bumpy ride. And all too often, feeling stiff and sore can keep you off the trails.

So in the spirit of getting back in the saddle, here's a rundown of a few painkillers and recovery aids. Of course, staying hydrated -- and stretching out after a ride -- are key factors in fighting muscle soreness. But when you're going hard, sometimes you need a little extra help.

IB-RELIEF is a cream designed to act like instant ibuprofen. It's odorless and complements the ibuprofen tablets so many athletes swear by. (www.ibrelief.com)

SPORT LEGS is an all-natural supplement filled with Vitamin D, magnesium and calcium. (www.sportlegs.com)

TP MASSAGE BALLS are designed to help rub out muscle knots. Like all massage treatments, it speeds muscle recovery by increasing blood flow. For even better results, we suggest a rubdown by an attractive biking companion. (www.tptherapy.com)

BODYGLIDE WARM FX MUSCLE FORMULA is a roll-on balm that uses menthol and methyl salicylate to give you that tingly sort of numbness. It's portable enough to bring along on just about any expedition. (www.bodyglide.com)

CHERRY PHARM is a drink that uses the power of cherries -- did you know that cherries had powers? -- to reduce inflammation and speed up recovery. Guess it beats spitting out 50 or 60 cherry pits. (www.cherrypharm.com)