Mountain biking is a thrilling yet challenging sport that requires skill and technique to maneuver through different terrains. One of the most exciting aspects of mountain biking is riding berms – banked corners that help riders maintain speed and control. However, mastering berms requires proper technique and practice, especially for beginners. In this article, we will be discussing tips and techniques on how to ride berms confidently on a mountain bike.
From body positioning to speed management, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced rider, our tips will help you take your bermed cornering skills to the next level. With this guide, you’ll be able to ride through berms with ease and feel confident tackling any trail. So, grab your Mountain bike, hit the trails, and let’s explore the world of riding berms together.
Understanding the basics of berm riding
The term “berm” refers to a banked turn on a trail that is designed to help you maintain your momentum through a corner. Berms come in all shapes and sizes, and they can be found on various types of terrain- from smooth, flowy singletrack to technical downhill tracks.
To ride a berm effectively, you need to understand the basic principles behind it. For instance, a berm will always be shaped like an “S” curve, with the entry point being wider than the exit. This design helps riders maintain a high degree of speed, as it allows them to take a smooth and controlled line through the turn. You’ll also need to learn about the proper body position and weight distribution required to ride berms. Doing this well will help you maintain control of your bike through the turn, and avoid losing traction or getting off balance.
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Preparing for berms: proper body positioning and weight distribution
In order to successfully ride berms on a mountain bike, it is essential to ensure that you have proper body positioning and weight distribution. This is because berms require a certain level of balance, control, and momentum to ride through them efficiently. As a rider, you should be aware of how your body affects your bike’s stability while turning, and adjust your position accordingly.
First and foremost, it’s important to keep your body centered and low, distributing your weight evenly over your pedals. This ensures that you have a stable base to work with as you ride through the berm. Additionally, your elbows should be out, your chest up, and your eyes should be looking ahead towards the berm’s exit. With these fundamentals in place, you’ll be able to approach berms with confidence, and ride them with control and ease.
Maximizing speed on berms through effective braking and acceleration
To achieve maximum speed while riding berms, effective braking and acceleration are crucial. Braking should be done before entering the berm, which helps to control speed and prevent sliding. Applying too much brake while on the berm can cause loss of control and potentially lead to a crash. Instead, try to maintain a consistent speed while on the berm by adjusting brake pressure and using body position.
Acceleration should be done while exiting the berm. This helps to carry momentum and increase speed. As you approach the end of the berm, start pedaling or push down on the pedals to accelerate out. This technique can take some practice, so it’s important to start slow and gradually build up speed. With effective braking and acceleration, you’ll be able to ride berms with confidence and speed.
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Improving cornering technique on berms
Riding berms can be an exhilarating experience for mountain bikers of all levels. However, mastering the art of cornering on berms can take time and practice. The key to improving cornering technique on berms is to maintain a consistent speed through the turn and to ensure that your bike remains perpendicular to the surface of the berm throughout the turn.
The first step to improving your cornering technique is to enter the berm at the correct speed. This will vary depending on the size and shape of the berm, but as a general rule, you should aim for a speed that allows you to maintain control and flow through the turn. As you approach the berm, keep your weight forward and your eyes looking ahead to the exit of the turn. As you enter the turn, lean your bike into the berm and maintain a consistent line through the turn by pointing your front wheel towards the exit. By practicing these techniques, you can significantly improve your cornering skills and tackle berms with confidence and precision.
Tips for tackling different types of berms
Different types of berms require different riding techniques to master them perfectly. For flat berms, it is essential to maintain a proper body position and a consistent speed to prevent losing traction. Riders should lean their bodies and bikes into the corners while keeping the pedals level to maintain balance. In contrast, banked berms have a steep angle, which requires controlling speed and body position. Riders should lean their bodies and bikes into the corners, keeping their heads up, and their eyes focused on the exit of the berm.
For berms with tight switchbacks, the key is to brake adequately and control the speed before entering the berm. It’s crucial to maintain a centered body position and lean completely on the inside of the turn to avoid washing out. For berms with a blind exit, it’s essential to keep a keen eye on the exit and judge the appropriate speed before entering it. Riders should maintain an inside line throughout the berm and accelerate out of the exit. Practicing these techniques can help riders tackle different types of berms confidently and smoothly.
Advanced techniques for mastering berms on a mountain bike
Once you have mastered the basics of riding berms, it’s time to take your skills to the next level with some advanced techniques. The first technique is to pump the berm. To do this, you need to compress your bike as you enter the berm and then release as you exit it. This will allow you to maintain your speed and gain some extra momentum.
Another advanced technique is to carve the berm. This technique requires confidence and good balance. You need to lean your bike towards the berm as you enter the corner and then smoothly transition to leaning away from it as you exit. This will allow you to maintain speed while also maintaining a tight line. Remember to always keep your eyes focused on the exit of the berm to be able to respond accordingly to changes in terrain or surfaces. With these advanced techniques, you’ll be able to take on any berm with grace and style.
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Common mistakes to avoid while riding berms and how to overcome them
Riding berms is all about maintaining momentum and flow, which can be disrupted if you don’t avoid common mistakes. The most common mistake riders make when riding berms is to lean their bodies too far into the turn. While it’s important to lean, going too far can cause you to lose traction and slide out of control. Instead, try to maintain a centered body position and let your bike do the work.
Another common mistake is braking too much before the turn, which kills your momentum and can cause you to lose speed. Instead, try to carry your speed into the turn and gently feather your brakes during the turn if needed. Lastly, make sure to keep your head up and look ahead to where you want to go, not down at your front wheel. By avoiding these mistakes and staying focused on the trail ahead, you can master riding berms and take your mountain biking skills to the next level.
The Conclusion
Riding berms on a mountain bike can be an exhilarating experience that can take your skills to the next level. It involves mastering the art of leaning into the corners, pumping through the turns, and maintaining your speed in a controlled way. However, it takes practice and patience to master the technique.
To start riding berms, you should focus on building up your confidence and skills gradually. Start with smaller berms and work your way up to the bigger ones as you gain experience. Also, remember to keep your weight centered over the bike, look ahead, and use your body to steer rather than your handlebars. With these tips and a lot of practice, you’ll soon be shredding the berms like a pro and enjoying your time on the mountain bike trails like never before.