Mountain Bike Basic Skill Tips

Since the recent weather has prevented us from actively practicing our mountain biking skills :) I thought I would post some general plagiarized tips that some of us (i.e. me) have had to learn the hard way. Feel free to send me your own favorite tips and tricks to post.

Most Useful Tip for Me While Learning

Look as far ahead as possible while riding, scan for any hazards and choose your path. Pick your line and stick to it. Fix your eyes on that chosen path and maintain your momentum.

Mountain Bike Hill Climbing Techniques

Bend your elbows and shift your weight front and back to maintain traction. You want to lower your center of gravity and distribute your weight evenly. If the rear tire starts to slip, slide back on the saddle. If the front wheel starts to lift off the ground, you need to lean and slide forward into the hill. With experience you will master this fine balancing act.

It is usually better to power your way over any small obstacles on the chosen path, than to suddenly change direction. This will break your momentum, upset your balance and probably result in a walk up the hill or possibly a fall.

Anticipate downshifts. Shift down before you begin to climb. It is difficult to shift to a smaller ring on the chainring (front) in the middle of a hill so downshift before the hill. Shifting in the middle of a steep hill will also result in lost momentum. Shift down on the freewheel cog (rear) as needed.

Descents

Maintain balance and control speed. Keep your feet level, unless negotiating tight corners, and stay centered on the bike. Move far back on the saddle, putting your weight over the rear wheel. Keep your elbows bent and avoid gripping the handlebars too tightly. Relaxed muscles will help to absorb bumps on the way down. You should feel as if you are flowing downhill.

On a fast descent feather your brakes, working them lightly on and off. Too much front brake can send you over the handlebars and too much rear brake can cause the rear wheel to slip. Start with a little more rear brake and gradually bring in front brake.