Mountainbikers?

**Sparky Bills** · 17th November 2006, 10:12

Hi all,
Im just getting back into this whole Mountain Biking thing after some time off. Have got a bike, got a helmet....what else would i need?

Have done a few rides here in Kapiti, but am finding it hard to get my groove on again! I can still turn etc, but just dont have the confidence to really push it. Ive already introduced myself to the ground a few times (which hurt like hell by the way), and got all dirty. But just dont seem to be at the same level as i used to be! Dont they say you never forget how to ride a bike?

Does anyone know of any training techniques (sp) i could be using?
or do I just need to ride more and harden up?

**McJim** · 17th November 2006, 10:25

Learn to use yer back brake instead of the front. Front brake fast downhill = face plant. better not to use brakes at all sometimes.

Practice practice practice.

**MOTOXXX** · 17th November 2006, 10:27

maybe stop being a pussy martin.

ill learn you up real good

**Squeak the Rat** · 17th November 2006, 10:29

One of the things about getting older is you have learnt all about pain and it's consequences (ie fear). After a few offs and a few good runs you'll start to get back into a groove.

Other than that it's all about centre of gravity in relation to the bike.

Keep as low as possible (arms should be in press up type position) and move backward on the bike when going downhill....

Choose braking moments, sometimes it's better not to brake.

ps - a decent pair of gloves in mandatory!

**Sparky Bills** · 17th November 2006, 10:30

Originally Posted by MOTOXXX

maybe stop being a pussy martin.

ill learn you up real good

I saw you were viewing this thread. Was wondering what poor excuse for a burn you would come up with. And there it is folks!

Maybe i could get your mum to learn me!? Shes been around the block a bit!

**MrMelon** · 17th November 2006, 10:31

Ride more. Mt Vic's got some good tracks that can be a bit of fun to blast around.

Have you got clipless pedals? Try to start doing things like bunny hops(clipped in) and wheelies (not while clipped in!) and try finding some things to do jumps off. Once you've got them down you'll have much better control of the bike and it'll make riding off road and balancing a bit easier.

Using both brakes is good, but don't overuse the front.

If you've got the bike in town some time I could show you some of the Mt Vic tracks. I could use an excuse to go for a bit of a ride.. haven't been out on the mountain bike for ages.

**Sparky Bills** · 17th November 2006, 10:33

I think its more mind over matter really.
Yeah I have a good pair of gloves from my MotoX kit. Am yet to kit myself out with some decent biking gear yet. But will do as soon as i get some spare coinage.

**Sparky Bills** · 17th November 2006, 10:37

Originally Posted by MrMelon

Ride more. Mt Vic's got some good tracks that can be a bit of fun to blast around.

Have you got clipless pedals? Try to start doing things like bunny hops(clipped in) and wheelies (not while clipped in!) and try finding some things to do jumps off. Once you've got them down you'll have much better control of the bike and it'll make riding off road and balancing a bit easier.

Using both brakes is good, but don't overuse the front.

If you've got the bike in town some time I could show you some of the Mt Vic tracks. I could use an excuse to go for a bit of a ride.. haven't been out on the mountain bike for ages.

I got a Giant XTC2 (hardtail) with clipless pedals. Got a real good deal too! Ill do that, cheers man.
Theres a new mountain biking park in Pram, so when ive gotten a bit more control, ill pay it a visit.
Im just loving getting all covered in mud etc again too! Brings back memories of when i did it everyday after school!

**skelstar** · 17th November 2006, 10:37

If its an concelation Martin I used to MTB heaps, and road ride. Since being on motorcycles I find extremely difficult to ride a MTB. Just the steering geometry and the weight of the bike.

I'd just say do lots of riding and you'll get it back.

**The Big J** · 17th November 2006, 13:43

taking my BHS for the motorcycle improved my balance out of sight. Just learning to keep my head up improved my lines. The pram park is pretty small so go out there for a blat. But clean your chain and running gear regularly as the soil is sand based.

shuffle your bum back over the rear wheel as opposed to the seat on downhills to get a feel for how different shifting your weight can be.

Makara Peak is worth the trip.

**Sparky Bills** · 17th November 2006, 13:57

I may just have to visit it some time then.

When i get my game back, ill chuck the helmet cam on for a couple runs.

Could be some good watching!.... or funny...depending on what angle your looking from.

**Fishy** · 17th November 2006, 14:04

A set of gloves helps with grip during long rides I find and depending if you like ramps etc a set of shin guards are worth it.

Just keep riding and riding mate you will get your confidence up.