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Now that you know the basics of mountain biking, you may want to expand your skill set. With that in mind, today we're offering to teach you the basics of downhill mountain biking.
Why do you need to learn the basics of downhill mountain biking?
In mountain biking, the downhill is often the part that impresses beginner mountain bikers the most. Yet, with a few basic techniques, you will see that it is possible to better apprehend these passages in order to have fun on a downhill bike, without putting yourself in danger whether it is in cross-country, enduro or in any other cycling discipline.
Braking well
For a smooth and safe descent, it is necessary to know braking techniques. In any case, always keep a finger on the brakes during a descent so you can react quickly.
The best way to do this is to use the brakes
When you apply the front brake, it causes a forward mass transfer, which can send you over the handlebars. The rear brake, on the other hand, allows you to dose the braking and therefore not go over the handlebars.
In case of emergency braking, to avoid an obstacle for example, it is recommended for example to use 40% rear brake and 60% front brake, while shifting the maximum of its weight to the rear of the bike, standing on the pedals.
For a classic braking, it is the opposite: 40% front brake and 60% rear brake as a general rule and it is necessary to avoid skidding the rear wheel in order to keep a maximum of adherence.
Anticipating
In mountain biking, especially downhill, anticipation is key. This is especially true when avoiding obstacles, choosing your trajectories and approaching turns. Look where you want to go: the gaze should always be as far away as possible, at the exit of the curve.
Before a technical or steep descent, don't hesitate to lower your saddle. You'll gain in comfort and safety.
Controlling your speed
With braking techniques, you'll be able to control your speed. But, on the other hand, riding too slowly can cause difficulties in crossing certain technical passages: if you arrive thrown at an obstacle (root, stone, etc.), you will cross it more easily than if you arrive on it almost at a standstill. Taking a little speed to get over an obstacle thus makes for a more stable bike.
But, going faster doesn't mean going too fast. Because controlling your speed is the key to anticipating your trajectories.
Now that you've learned how to control your speed, you'll be able to do so
Now that you know the basics of downhill mountain biking, how about discovering the technique for learning to jump on a mountain bike and learning how to learn trial mountain biking?
