When attempting to ride up a steep hill on a single-speed bike, you'll soon realize the importance of multiple gear combinations. A typical mountain bike is equipped with a multi-speed drive train which allows you to adapt to a myriad of riding terrains. Most mountain bikes feature a rear cassette cluster that has seven speeds. The right shifter lever controls the rear derailleur, which moves your chain between the various-sized sprockets. Use the proper shifting technique to maintain your speed on the trail.
Step 1
Choose a low-traffic area to practice your shifting technique. Push your pedals forward to increase your momentum. Pull back on the right lever to highlight the number 1 on the shifter display.
Step 2
Squeeze the left lever to highlight the number 2 on the shifter display. Pedal forward until you reach the highest speed capacity of the first gear. Pull back the right shifter level to move your chain to the second-largest rear sprocket.
Step 3
Pedal your mountain bike in second gear until you reach its maximum speed. Engage the right lever to highlight the number 3 on the shifter display. Repeat the shifting technique with your right lever as your speed continues to increase.
Step 4
Shift down as you approach the bottom a steep hill in the riding terrain. Pull back the right shifter lever to move your chain to the largest rear sprocket. Squeeze the left lever to highlight the number 1 on the shifter display when climbing extremely tough hills.
Step 5
Engage the right lever to shift up while riding down a steep hill. Squeeze the left lever to highlight the number 3 on the shifter display when riding at breakneck speeds.
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