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Core mountain-bike skills
A practical progression order for braking, vision, cornering, climbing, descending and trail features.
Reviewed · General UK planning guidance · Check current operator and manufacturer information
Control first
Stable braking and good vision underpin almost everything else.
- Cover the brakes, look through the turn and do most heavy braking before the corner.
- Use both brakes progressively; avoid grabbing either lever suddenly.
- Keep pedals level over rough ground and give the bike room to move beneath you.
Climb and descend
Balance grip against weight transfer.
- Select a sustainable gear before a steep climb and keep pedalling smoothly.
- On descents, stay centred rather than hanging far behind the saddle.
- Scan from the immediate surface to the next decision point instead of staring at the front wheel.
Drops and jumps
These are optional skills, not requirements for enjoying mountain biking.
- Inspect the take-off, landing and run-out on foot where permitted.
- Learn with a coach or on a progressive skills area.
- Never stop on a landing or attempt a feature because riders behind are waiting.
Useful official guidance
Rules, conditions and services change. Use these sources and the relevant venue’s current information before relying on a plan.
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