Are You Afraid of Going Over the Handlebars on your Mountain Bike? Here's the Skills to Avoid It

Hey there, mountain bikers! 🚴‍♀️🚴‍♂️

You know that gut-wrenching feeling when you're cruising down a bike trail and suddenly think you're about to go over the handlebars? Yeah, we've all been there. But guess what? A lot of the time, you can totally avoid that scary moment. Let's dive into a few key mountain bike skills how you can keep that rubber side down and enjoy your ride.

1️⃣ Feet Level: The Foundation of Balance 🦶

First things first, let's talk about your feet. You want them level. Why? Because keeping your feet level is like building a strong foundation for a house. It gives you the balance you need to tackle any terrain. Imagine your mountain bike as a seesaw; if your feet are level, you're gonna be in the middle, perfectly balanced. So, next time you're on the trail, remember: feet level, always.

2️⃣ One Finger on Each Brake: The Art of Control 🤏

Now, let's move up to your hands. You want one finger on each brake—one on the back and one on the front. This isn't just some random tip; it's the key to having complete control over your bike. Using both brakes equally lets you manage your speed without skidding or, worse, flipping over. It's like having two reins on a horse; you wouldn't use just one, right? So, one finger on each brake, and you're golden.

3️⃣ Easy On, Easy Off: The Smooth Operator 🛑

Alright, you've got your feet level and one finger on each brake. What's next? It's all about how you use those brakes. You wanna go easy on, easy off. No sudden jerks, no slamming. Think of it like your car brakes; you wouldn't just go full force, would you? Same goes for your brakes on your bike. A smooth touch gives you the control to navigate those tricky spots without launching yourself into the air.

Putting It All Together 🚀

So, there you have it. Three simple yet game-changing tips to keep you grounded and in control. Feet level for balance, one finger on each brake for control, and an easy-on, easy-off approach to braking. Master these, and not only will you avoid going over the handlebars, but you'll also feel like a total pro on the trails.

Follow @kootenaymountainbiking for More Tips 📲

If you found these tips helpful, make sure to follow us for more. We are all about helping you ride better, safer, and with more confidence. So, let's keep that rubber side down and shred those trails like the pros we are!

Coach Pete demonstrating staying balanced to not go over the bars on steep trail sections