Descending

DESCENDING

Descending is one of the most exhilarating parts of cycling, but it requires skill and caution. High speeds on a descent leave less time to react to obstacles. Good technique makes descending both faster and safer.

Body Position

Keep your weight low and centered. Bend your elbows and keep them pointing outward to act as shock absorbers. Keep your pedals level (at 3 o'clock and 9 o'clock) to maximize ground clearance in corners. Look ahead as far as possible.

Braking

Use both brakes gently and progressively. Avoid hard braking, especially in corners. Brake before the corner, not during it. The front brake provides most of the stopping power. Apply it smoothly and progressively. Squeezing the front brake too hard can cause the front wheel to skid.

Cornering

Look through the corner to where you want to go. Lean the bicycle (not just your body) into the corner. On wet roads, lean less and brake more gently, as traction is reduced.

Speed Management

Know your limits and ride within them. The descent should be a controlled, confident experience, not a frightening one. With practice, your descending speed and confidence will naturally increase.