What Is a Skinny in Mountain Biking?

A skinny is an obstacle on a mountain bike trail that requires the rider to navigate a tight space. Generally, skinnies are made of logs, rocks, stumps, or other natural debris that have been integrated into the trail. Typically, the skinny will be narrow in width and require the rider to remain balanced and steer accurately in order to make it through unscathed.

Skinnies can be found on all types of mountain bike trails ranging from beginner to expert level. Beginner skinnies may be wider and easier to traverse while more advanced skinnies may be narrower and require greater skill and balance from the rider. Skinnies can also be found at varying levels of elevation from flat ground to steep descents.

In addition to requiring skill, navigating a skinny also presents a mental challenge for riders as they must focus on their riding line in order to make it through unscathed. This requires quick decision making and confidence in one’s own abilities as a mountain biker. The difficulty of navigating a skinny increases with speed as accuracy is much more difficult at higher speeds due to centrifugal force pulling the rider off course.

For some riders, skinnies represent an extreme challenge that pushes them out of their comfort zone and forces them to improve their riding skills in order to make it through unscathed. For others, skinnies are just another fun obstacle on the trail that adds variety and excitement when traversing different terrain.

No matter what type of mountain biker you are, skinnies provide an excellent opportunity for learning new skills and pushing yourself further along your biking journey. With practice, anyone can learn how to navigate a skinny with confidence and skill!

Conclusion:

What is a Skinny in Mountain Biking? A skinny is an obstacle on a mountain bike trail that requires the rider to navigate a tight space using skillful maneuvering, quick decision making, and confidence in one’s own abilities as a mountain biker. Skinnies provide an excellent opportunity for learning new skills and pushing yourself further along your biking journey.

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Alex Wright