5 moves for beginners learnt in 20 minutes

Laurin Lehner

 · 18.01.2016

5 moves for beginners learnt in 20 minutesPhoto: Markus Greber
5 moves for beginners learnt in 20 minutes
Admittedly, you can't learn to ride a bike properly in a day. But even beginners can learn these five moves in no time at all. Stefan Herrmann reveals all the tricks for quick learning success.

Five moves that beginners can learn in 20 minutes - too good to be true? No. Stefan Herrmann shows how mountain biking can be successful and more fun right from the start:


1st jet turn

In a jet turn, the bike lies in the bend like a jet fighter that tips straight out of formation. With this manoeuvre, you can easily scrape the bend on tight turns.


2nd flight of stairs

You see them all the time. Bikers dismounting and pushing on stairs. The manoeuvre is child's play if you pay attention to the little things.


3rd level high

If you master this manoeuvre, you are automatically one of the more skilful bikers on the trail and don't have to dismount when there are obstacles. Good: The move is almost completely safe to learn.


4. flash drop

The flash drop is more of a rescue parachute for bikers than a real riding technique. This manoeuvre is used to prevent the dreaded drop over the handlebars. Stefan explains the emergency plan.


5th steep descent

The steep off-road descent can be a real test of courage. But even this requires more nerve than riding ability. Have the courage!

What for? This is the only way you can manoeuvre your bike around tight bends. Caution: The way I'm leaning my bike into the bend here only works on a surface with good grip. For example, on tarmac or forest floor. The tyres should be in good condition for this.

How it works: Start with a little traction and lean your bike into the bend by stretching your arm on the inside of the bend (see picture). You yourself remain upright. Your centre of gravity is slightly forward, so you exert enough pressure on the front wheel and prevent the tyres from rubbing. Important: Apply a lot of pressure to the outside pedal for maximum traction.

TIP: Find your favourite side. Practise in a car park without obstacles and slowly feel your way around. A slight incline is helpful to build up speed.
Photo: Markus Greber


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Born in South Baden, Laurin Lehner is, by his own admission, a lousy racer. Maybe that's why he is fascinated by creative, playful biking. What counts for him is not how fast you get from A to B, but what happens in between. Lehner writes reports, interviews scene celebrities and tests products and bikes - preferably those with a lot of suspension travel.

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