Buzz
Bicycle drifting, also known as skidding, is a technique where you approach a corner on your bike at high speed and maneuver around the turn as your back tire loses traction with the ground. To execute a successful drift, lean into the turn and shift your body weight forward. With practice, you can enhance your speed and navigate downhill trails effortlessly.
Steps
Mastering the Fundamentals
Gain speed as you approach the turn. Higher speeds make it easier to initiate a skid with your back tire. Riding downhill before reaching the turn can help increase your velocity.
Important Note: It's crucial to be mindful that skidding can damage trails, particularly when they are wet. Refrain from skidding on public trails. Consider volunteering with your local trail-building organization if you intend to skid.
Lean into the turn once you reach it. Shift your body weight towards the direction of the turn so that your body and bike form an approximately 45-degree angle with the ground. Maintain this lean throughout the corner of the turn.
- For instance, if you're making a left turn, lean to the left.
Shift your weight forward while navigating the turn. Lean slightly forward over your handlebars to shift your weight forward. This action reduces the pressure on your back tire, allowing it to skid. As you maneuver the turn, you'll notice your back tire starting to skid outward. Apply gentle pressure to the rear brake if necessary to encourage the tire to break loose.
Extend your inside foot outward, keeping it slightly above the ground. The inside foot refers to the foot closest to the inside corner of the turn. Maintain the position of your foot just above the ground as you negotiate the turn.
- For example, if you're making a right turn, your right foot would be your inside foot.
- If you feel like you're losing control or your bike is about to spin out, place your inside foot on the ground to stabilize yourself.
Return your body and bike to an upright position once you complete the turn. This action helps your back tire regain traction after skidding. To return to an upright position on your bike, stop leaning into the turn and lift your body weight upward.
Mastering the Art of Skidding
Begin by practicing skidding at lower speeds. While skidding becomes easier at higher speeds, it also increases the risk of accidents. Start by approaching turns slowly, focusing on leaning into the turn and shifting your weight forward. Once you're comfortable with the technique, gradually ramp up your speed as you approach the turn.
Consider practicing skidding in a gravel parking lot before hitting the trails. Set up markers like cones to designate turning points in the parking lot. Approach these markers and aim to skid your back tire outward as you navigate the turn. Practicing in a parking lot is safer and prevents trail damage.
Helpful Hint: Always remember to avoid skidding on public trails to preserve them for other users! Reserve skidding for private trails that you own.
Start by skidding around wide, gentle turns when you're a beginner. Narrow, sharp turns offer less margin for error and less time to skid, making them less ideal for practice. Opt for wide, round turns that afford more space and time to refine your skidding technique.
Stay determined. Mastering the skill of skidding on a bike requires consistent practice and patience. If you find yourself struggling to skid or maintain control, adjust your technique by tweaking your leaning and weight distribution. Consider recording yourself to review your form and progress. With perseverance, you'll eventually succeed!
Useful Pointers
Important Reminders
- Always prioritize safety by wearing a helmet whenever you ride a bike.
