How To Ride A Fixed Gear Mountain Bike

Riding a fixed gear (single-speed) mountain bike is a challenging but rewarding way to enjoy off-road riding. It is considered by many to be the purest from of mountain biking because of the simplicity of a single gear, lack of equipment and the technique required by the rider to efficiently navigate off-road terrain.

Effecient Single-Speed Mountain Biking

Step 1

Consider the best gear ratio for the kind of terrain you'll be riding in. Typically, a 2:1 gear ration is a good place to start. This means that the front sprocket has twice as many teeth as the rear. If there are long climbs or many hills, a larger cog on the rear wheel would enhance your pedaling efficiency; 32x16 is common.

Step 2

Keep a good pace. Single speeders often make good time on the climb, unable to drop into lighter gear ratios that make it easier to pedal on the ascent. However, they have a limited cadence on flat or downhill terrain. A good practice is to keep a constant rhythm in your pedaling. This will help carry you up inclines and allow you to roll through easier sections with your momentum. It's also important to take advantage of the less resistant portions of the trail to rest.

Step 3

Shift your weight. Without the benefit of 20 or more gears, single speeders must learn to use their weight to shift the center of gravity around on the bicycle to help them clear obstacles and difficult sections of trail. This means over-exaggerating body positions and leaning forward or back to allow maximum maneuverability on the bicycle.

Step 4

Be willing to push your bike. Part of fixed gear mountain biking is dismounting to push your bike through unavoidable sections of trail. Be prepared to dismount safely and even carry your bike over obstacles and other trail hazards.