Bike trials refers to a special event in mountain bike riding that takes place on natural or man-made courses. Riders have a specified amount of time to finish each section of the bike trial course. Bike trial riders must maneuver their bikes over narrow bridges and up steeply inclined terrain. Certain hints and tips can help the trial bike rider to stay safe while successfully completing the sections of the course.
The Track Stand
The track stand remains the most fundamental technique of bike trial riding. The track stand allows you to balance while the bike remains in a stationary position. This maneuver can be crucial if you get stuck halfway over a tight bridge. You should first practice the track stand on a flat surface. Ensuring your pedals remain parallel with the bike trial riding surface will help with the track stand. Leading with the dominant foot can also help you to balance during the track stand. When learning the tack stand, it helps to turn your front wheel in a 45-degree angle to steady the bike's stationary position. Allowing the bike to rock from side to side can help you achieve a smooth rhythmic balancing motion.
The Back Tire Pivot
Pivoting off your back tire goes hand in hand with the track stand technique. This pivoting motion allows you to lift the front tire in either direction to correct the path of the bike. Pivoting off the back tire can also save you from losing balance during the track stand. Keeping the back tire locked helps to make the pivot easier. You can lock the back tire by holding down on the handbrake throughout the pivoting motion. Leaning back and pulling up on the handlebars allows you to lift the front tire off of the riding surface. Leaning slightly in the opposite direction of the pivot will help you to center your weight over the bike and maintain a balanced riding stance.
Safety Gear
Having fun and staying safe remain two of the top priorities of bike trial riders. Falls are common in bike trials, yet experienced riders know how to adequately protect themselves against serious injury. An adjustable bike helmet remains the most crucial piece of safety equipment utilized on bike trial courses. Certain sections of bike trail courses commonly feature boulders and rocks that could easily damage an unprotected head. Wearing a pair of biking gloves will help you to maintain a solid grip throughout the bike trial course. You may also want to wear shin guards to protect against the sharp corners of the bike pedals.
Member Comments