How Do You Break When Mountain Biking?

Mountain biking is an incredibly rewarding experience, but it can be dangerous if you don’t know how to break properly. It’s important to learn the basics of breaking when mountain biking so you don’t get injured or worse.

Front Brake:The front brake is the most powerful brake on a mountain bike, so it should be used for most breaking needs. To use the front brake correctly, first make sure you are in a good position with your body weight slightly over the handlebars.

Then squeeze the brake lever slowly and evenly with both hands until you feel a strong resistance. Remember, it takes longer to stop when using a mountain bike than other types of bikes, so don’t panic and squeeze too hard on the brakes.

Rear Brake:The rear brake is less powerful than the front, so it should be used with caution. When using the rear brake, make sure your body weight is slightly back on the saddle and your arms are extended.

Squeeze the rear brake lever slowly and evenly until you feel a strong resistance. It’s important to keep your arms straight when using the rear brake so that you maintain control of your bike.

Coasting:Coasting is an important technique for mountain biking as it allows you to save energy and maintain speed on long downhill sections. To coast properly, make sure your bodyweight is centered over your pedals and that both hands are resting lightly on the handlebars. As gravity starts to take over and pull you downhill, try to stay relaxed and let go of any tension in your arms or legs to keep from fighting against gravity.

Emergency Breaking:In some cases, emergency breaking may be necessary while mountain biking if obstacles arise suddenly or if there are unexpected changes in terrain. To emergency break properly, first make sure your body weight is over the handlebars then squeeze both brakes firmly but evenly until you come to a complete stop.

Conclusion:

Knowing how to break properly when mountain biking can help ensure that you stay safe while enjoying this thrilling activity. Make sure that when using either of your brakes that you apply them slowly and evenly for optimal stopping power and control.

Photo of author

Jennifer Watson