5/14 Ride - Seaman's Gulch Loop

Next Monday (5/14) we will be riding the Seaman's Gulch Loop. As it's still early in the season, we thought we'd utilize this fun, but short and sweet ride. For riders wanting to go longer, we'll be splitting into two groups again, so there will be an option to mix things up a bit. Plan on arriving prior to 6:30 as we will start up the trail at that time.

Following the ride, we will head to the Pizzelchick patio for some yummy food/beverages (corner of state street and Glenwood) for those interested.

Directions: Follow Hill Road west of Boise past Gary Lane until you come to an intersection with Seaman’s Gulch Road and Hill Road Parkway. Bear right on the main paved road and follow signs to Hidden Springs. At .9 miles from this junction, turn right into a parking area and trailhead. The ride starts here.

Additionally, after two years of attending Trek's Dirt Series camps we've learned some very valuable skills, and would like to pass on the knowledge (and keep ourselves refreshed!). In an effort to avoid overwhelming beginners, we've decided to implement a "Weekly Skill Check" for each Monday's ride. This will be one pointer or tip every week on the technical aspects of mountain biking. Each week we'll learn a new skill and really focus on that particular skill during the ride. This week's Weekly Skill Check is the dynamics of BRAKING. Here are a few things to think about when braking:

• Remember to only use ONE finger when braking (the pointer finger). Keep this finger on the brake lever at all times (even when riding uphill).
• The front brake is the majority of your braking power, so the key is to use it properly. Ideally, both brakes should be utilized 50/50, although when learning, it's common to use 60% back brake (right hand) and 40% front brake to avoid the dreaded endo from grabbing too much front brake.
  
• Braking should be done in modulation in a gentle feathering or pulsing motion. Do NOT grab or squeeze your brakes. 
• If you are skidding your bike, you are braking wrong, most likely using too much rear brake. Practice rolling down a STEEP hill very slowly with no skids.
• When approaching a corner or berm, it's ideal to brake before entering the turn, not during. You'll have to plan ahead and judge the speed you'll need to carry you through the corner. Braking correctly for corners is very technical, and even pro riders have to work every day to perfect this. A good strategy is to use more front brake when approaching the corner for a quicker slowing motion, and if you have to brake while in the corner, utilize your back brake at that point.
  
• Your brakes can be adjusted to feel harder or squishier. Also, the amount of reach in your brake levers can also be adjusted for easier, more comfortable braking. If you have small or large hands, chances are you'll want to adjust the lever. Let us know if you have ANY questions on how to make these adjustments. All you'll need is a basic multi-tool (which everyone should carry anyway!).