RED TRAIL SKILLS
STEEP ROLL-INS Riding down steep slopes is fun but can be really intimidating if you haven’t tried it before. With the right line in and out though, it’s possible to tackle any slope. And no matter how steep they are they don’t actually get any harder – just a little scarier! The skill involved in riding sharp banks can be applied in other trail situations too. In this example we’ve used a steep and short roll-in that’s fairly common. As always, start small before rolling off something you wouldn’t walk away from if you were to get it wrong...
STAGE 1
OVER THE EDGE P R E PA R E POSITION Have your best foot forwards, and be out of the saddle, looking at the edge of the slope.
Speed tips KEEP IT SLOW Don’t ride off too fast – if you do, you risk taking off and flat landing.
STAY CONTROLLED Keep your speed controlled – aim for a slow walking pace.
BRAKE Slow right down, maintain a steady line, and drag the brakes as the front wheel goes over the edge.
52 MOUNTAIN BIKING SKILLS
WEIGHT B AC K Slide off the back of the saddle to keep your weight back.
LET IT ROLL Let the bars move away from you, allowing your bike to pivot underneath you.
