How to Mountain Bike Uphill

It seems rather obvious, but you will encounter steep hills during your mountain bike endeavors (after all, “mountain” does rather give it away!). The following basic steps will help you take on the challenge.

• Practice. When I was starting out steep inclines kinda scared me. I knew that I had bought a mountain bike to ride up and down over, well, mountains, but I also knew I couldn’t take on the big hills right away. The answer, take on the small inclines first, and practice. Get to know your bike, use the lower gears, and you’ll get comfortable in no time.
• Sections. Visualize the incline in front of you, break it down into sections, and plan your ride. If you’ve practiced as per the first point you’ll be much more comfortable when you start your ride, knowing what gears to use and when.
• Traction. To maintain traction keep pressure on the front wheel by leaning forward on your handlebars. Remember to keep your back straight. If the front wheel feels like it is lifting off the ground lean further forward!
• Variation. Moving from a sitting position to a standing will help vary your ride during long climbs. This will also help to stop the muscles from cramping, remember not to lock your joints but rather keep your legs and arms flexed. If you’ve prepared properly a few hours before your ride by drinking plenty of water and eating energy releasing foods you should find standing a little easier as it will use more energy.