The next time you approach a gnarly obstacle like this one on the Hillside STA trails, we encourage you to “clinic” it with these tips:

Momentum

Momentum is your friend. Going up, don’t let the crack between the boards freak you out. Just pedal hard.

Time Your Shift 

You’re pedaling hard but right before you stress your gears on the climb, shift down so you can keep pedaling up that puppy.

Spread Your Weight Evenly

Lean forward so you don’t pop a wheelie, but keep enough weight over your back tire to get a good grip as you climb. 

Choose Your Route

Whenever you can, hit roots straight on instead of at an angle. This isn’t always possible of course but keep up your momentum to help your tires cross cleanly instead of slipping off to the side.

Keep Pedaling

It may take a few tries to be confident to pedal instead of putting your foot down. And some days the roots are just too slick or the mojo just isn’t there. That’s okay! Keep trying and pretty soon you’ll be kicking its butt instead of the other way around!