Obstacles and Technical Riding Tips

Off road trail riding has it’s own set of challenges in the form of natural and man made obstacles. Natural obstacles can include: logs, rocks, roots, and other objects. Man made obstacles likely to be found on a trail are: log piles, elevated wood paths, and the overall technical layout of the trail. Some more experienced riders may thrive in such an environment because of the sense of accomplishment and satisfaction. Others may need to build up their level of skill in technical riding. Below are tips on how to avoid obstacles, and increase your technical riding abilities.

No matter how good a rider you are, there are some obstacles everyone should avoid. In wooded areas, trails can be constantly changing because of the obstacles along the way. If a tree falls across the trails, and it is too big to bunny hop over, you’ll have to find a way around it or carry your bike over it. Otherwise when you try to go over it you’ll embed your bike’s front large chain ring teeth into the fallen tree. You’ll also need to be on the lookout for low tree branches, even if you’re wearing a helmet. A thick low tree branch will hit you in the head, and can knock you right off your bike. You could possibly get knocked out cold. If you’re riding in a group don’t let the thin branches on the side of a trail that catch on you swing back and smack the person behind you. That’s just poor etiquette; unless it’s your younger brother, then just don’t let him catch you if he gets smacked.

When you are up for the challenge of technical rail riding, start by making sure your bike is working properly with the seat adjusted to a comfortable height. Be sure to wear a helmet and gloves for protection. You can also purchase more padding. A little extra armor may give you the confidence level necessary to hit the technical trail.
Just as a gymnast needs a spotter to learn a new routine, riding with an experienced technical rider can help to build up your technique. Stay at that technical section and practice until you’ve got it.
Ease into technical by starting off small and advance your way up to the big stuff. Once you’re confident about riding over a root, then try to ride over the pile of logs. Once you’re confident about riding over a rock, then try riding through a rock garden.
Don’t hold back when riding in the technical. With a little momentum you’ll have more control. If you’re too slow you can lose your balance and fall or have a difficult time steering through the technical section. Holding back can also break your focus, concentration and confidence. So get prepared and go for it.