TRAIL TRICKS
MANUAL THROUGH ROLLERS Rollers are the staple of any pump track and are the main way of generating speed without pedalling. Depending on how big they are, how many there are and your speed, rollers can be tackled by pumping, jumping or manualling. Manualling between a double set is pretty easy because speed will carry you through. Staying on the back wheel through a line of rollers is much trickier as it requires you to hold a balance point. As well as helping you rip around the pump track, it’s a great transferable skill for trail riding, giving you the confidence to manual through holes or rough terrain at full speed if jumping isn’t an option.
116 MOUNTAIN BIKING SKILLS
1 . I N I T I AT E T H E M A N UA L To pop the bike onto its back wheel, focus on shifting your hips back and driving your weight through the pedals to get the front wheel aloft, rather than yanking up on the bar. Although it’s essential to pull back, it’s much more about body position than brute force. With a bit of practice, you’ll soon get a feel for the movements and how much effort is needed. It’s a good idea to get the basics dialled on the flat before you try to take this technique to the pump track.
