Just started tackling the really steep bits of the single tracks here (Santa Monica), stuff I could barely do on my mountain bike. Feels like peddling off a cliff, and if you go down, you’ll slide or tumble for a long ways. Only way I’ve managed so far is to almost lock my Magura brake, and even then I’m almost out of control, speed wise.
But feeling like I’m cheating with so much brake, I’ve tried the run out on some of the super steep sections–without brakes–and because I must down pressuse so hard on the up stroke, it literally jacks me out of the saddle and right off the Muni. Must be a brakeless way, but I can’t imagine the action as being anything but jerky as hell.
Someone else with more experience out there, kindly advise on proper form, tips, etc.
Depending on the terrain, skidding is a very effective method when tackling steep slopes. Every few rotations (between two and four depending on what feels comfortable) stop pedaling in the same position you hop. God willing you’ll go into a bit of a slide which you will soon come out of and continue down the hill. Timing is crucial for this skill and I’ve found that it can’t be learned, but rather you just have to “feel it” and trust your legs to do the right thing. Also, your technique will need to vary slightly to compensate for different terrain and steepness. Best of luck, and be sure to let us know how it turns out.
I’m heading up to Santa Barbara next weekend. Let’s hook up.
I sent you a PM. Don’t know how it’s been in San Diego, but this weekend the local trails have been blazing hot. Cooler up in SB.
I might consider lowering the tire pressure. That might have some effect. How low, I am not sure. Is there any way to start the descent on the incline vs. at the top and riding over the edge? Maybe that is a comprimise until a full line is completed.
Hopefully this will get more coverage once the official week begins on Tuesday and lead to more responses.
This sounds like a lot of fun and very challenging, but it bad for the trail. Dry trails, like most in California, are highly susceptible to erosion which is made worse by skidding. Try not to do this on those places that are subject to erosion. Unfortunately those are the places that are hardest to ride down…
I’m going to put the word out tomorrow and try to find a good riding time for this weekend. I’m housesitting and may have a pool available for after the ride depending on what time we finish up. Are you guys available both Sat and Sunday?
ahh, matt. There has been some PM’ing going on between JL and i behind the scenes. I’ve decided that this weekend won’t be so great for me. Thanks so much for the offer though. Thats really nice.
Hopefully i can get up to SB soon. I’ll stay in touch. take care. -erik:D
I’ll be sure to take this into account. I recently learned this skill on a very large man made hill just outside of a ski resort. I haven’t applied it to any natural trails and thanks to your post I probably won’t. Thanks for your concern.
The problem with the terrain I mentioned is we’re talking about popular XX mountain single tracks and they’re already ravaged by ruts from so much out of contol braking. Some of these sretches ar also littered with busted MB parts. I’ve yet to see a super steep groomed slope, but if I ever do I’ll make sure not to try skidding.
