Everything you need to know about a Cleanly ridden hairpin bend with the mountain bike you need to know right here:
Stefan Herrmann; riding technique expert: "Swinging the tail to the side is stylish, fun and demonstrates a lot of bike control. I say: If you get the manoeuvre right and practise for half an hour four times a week, you'll have it down in six weeks."
Stefan, why is it worth learning the MTB hairpin bend manoeuvre?
Biking is more fun when you stay in the flow. If you can get round tight bends without dismounting, you stay in the flow. Admittedly, you only have to turn the rear wheel on very tight bends.
Nevertheless, many of your riding technique students want to learn to offset the rear wheel. Why is that?
I think it's not just the function, but also the enthusiasm to master such a manoeuvre. It's a bit like the wheelie. It's also important as a trail riding technique, but most people want to learn it because it's about bike control. It just feels good.
What do most people find difficult about the move?
Coordination! Because it's a complex trick. You have to scan the turn, brake, perform the movement forwards at the top and then initiate the hip swing at the same time. It takes practice and patience.
Which tips help your students the most?
You have to break down the manoeuvre. Tip: Practise controlled braking first, then getting the rear wheel up and then the hip swing. Only when all three points are in place should you put the individual steps back together again. After that, the aim is to get smoothness into your movements. The good thing is that you can practise anywhere. For example, right now, in the car park.
You can read this article or the entire issue of BIKE 9/2017 in the BIKE app (iTunes and Google Play) or buy the issue in the DK shop reorder:
Laurin Lehner
Editor
