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Technical climbing
Coordinate gear choice, cadence, traction and line selection for steep or uneven climbs.
Reviewed · General UK planning guidance · Check current operator and manufacturer information
Prepare
Late shifting under maximum load is hard on balance and drivetrain.
- Look beyond the first obstacle and identify traction and recovery points.
- Shift early to a gear that maintains controlled cadence.
- Lower assistance or power spikes when they cause wheelspin.
Balance traction
The front wheel needs direction while the rear needs load.
- Stay mobile and move forward enough to prevent front-wheel lift.
- Keep hips connected to rear traction rather than lunging over the bars.
- Pedal smoothly through roots and steps.
Reset safely
Not every failed climb needs an immediate retry.
- Dismount to the safe side and clear the line quickly.
- Walk without blocking descending riders or damaging trail edges.
- Practise short sections before linking a long technical climb.
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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