When you’re mountain biking, traction is your best friend, right? Not when you’re drifting. That’s when you skillfully slide through turns, using your bike’s momentum to guide you through with style and control. It takes just a few steps, along with speed and control, to master this trick.
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- Choose Your Drift Spot: Find a downhill turn with loose ground and plenty of open space. It has to be free from obstacles like rocks and trees.
- Lean into the Turn: As you approach the turn, lean into your bike more aggressively than usual, but keep your control so you don’t tip over.
- Position Your Body: Stay seated or hover just above your seat. Prepare for the back wheel to break traction first, then the front.
- Foot Out for Control: Take your inside foot off the pedal and stick it out towards the turn, keeping it close to the ground.
- Move Your Weight Forward: As the drift starts, bend your elbows and move your body forward over the handlebars.
- Keep the Front Wheel Down: Make sure your front wheel stays on the ground throughout the slide. If it lifts up, you might lose control of the fall.
And that’s how you drift! Now it’s time to practice until it feels natural. Incorporate gentle drifts into your regular rides to build your confidence. You can use it to navigate tricky trails and take corners faster in races as you get better. You’ll be a pro drifter in no time!
Drift into a new MTB at Airpark Bike Co
It might be time to replace your mountain bike. You’ll get the best deal on a new model at Airpark Bike Co. We carry brands from top-tier brands like Yeti Cycles to more budget-conscious brands like Diamondback. Let us help you find the build of your dreams. Then you’ll be ready for drifting, jumping, bunny hopping…all the best tricks! Visit us at our Scottsdale or Phoenix location for more details!
