Lever extenders generate more force than typical brake levers on mountain bikes. Used correctly, you can add another dimension to the bike's steering and suspension. In tight turns, the rear brake lever and brake can be used to rotate the bike on its center axis and turn quicker. In bumpy conditions, the front brake lever and brake can be used to reduce impact at the handlebars. It's important that the brakes are properly adjusted and the lever extenders are positioned comfortably before setting out to learn new braking techniques.
Slide Steering
Step 1
Put on your protective pads and helmet. Find a section of ground that has semi-loose soil to practice steering through turns using the rear brake lever and brake.
Step 2
Decide whether to make a turn to the right or left. Get the bike rolling at a moderate speed.
Step 3
Set up for the turn by rotating the pedals to horizontal. Put both feet firmly on the pedals and lift your lower end off the bike seat using your legs. Press both palms against the handlebars to keep the bars straight.
Step 4
Lean into the direction of the turn as you squeeze the rear brake lever fully at the same time. You notice the rear wheel slides away from the direction of the turn and the bike rotates on its center axis.
Step 5
Mark a turning point by making a line in the dirt or selecting a small object, such as a rock. Start far enough from the mark to get the bike rolling at a moderate speed.
Step 6
Set up for the turn as you approach the marker, making sure the palms of your hands keep the handlebars straight.
Step 7
Lean in the direction of the turn and squeeze the rear brake lever fully as you reach the mark. Release the rear lever once the bike has rotated one-quarter turn. Pedal and sit upright to straighten out your line of travel.
Step 8
Continue to practice turning in both directions. Learn how much force to use on the rear brake lever to slide the rear wheel and make half-turns around a mark.
Suspension Loading
Step 1
Learn to use the front brake to reduce the impact on your hands and arms when going over bumps. Understand that applying the front brake hard transfers your body weight forward and loads the front suspension on the bike by compressing the fork shocks.
Step 2
Find a section of terrain that has an elevated bump. Get the bike rolling at a moderate speed and focus on a point that's 1 foot in front of the base of the bump.
Step 3
Squeeze the front brake lever fully as your front wheel is at the 1-foot point. Instantly release the brake lever and go over the bump.
Step 4
Continue practicing going over elevated bumps using the front brake lever and brake to influence the front suspension. Notice the front of the bike lifts when you release the front brake lever, reducing the impact of a bump on your hands and arms.
Tips and Warnings
- Moderate speed for a rider is one that allows you to practice effectively without risking danger.
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