Mountain bike riding technique: The Braap Turn with Ethan Nell

"As is so often the case, it's all about timing and technique. You also need confidence to press into the turn with a lot of force - you have to work on that with practice." - Etan Nell

AttentionBraapen in built bends is frowned upon. This is because it causes the berms that other trail builders have painstakingly carved to crumble or explode. So be careful which turn you braap into. Here are our riding technique tips for the braap turn.

1. approach to the Braap-Turn

First of all: You need enough air in the tyres, because 1. without is cheating, because Braapen is easier that way. 2. otherwise it pulls the tyres off the rims. Approach the berm with a lot of momentum at a fairly acute angle. Get a feel for the speed and approach.

2nd Braap: Squeeze in!

Steer dynamically into the turn. As soon as the front wheel hits the berm, push your legs through and press the rear firmly into the berm. During this movement, your centre of gravity moves slightly backwards. Timing is everything!

3. spray and out

If the angle, speed and movement are right, the dirt splashes - as proof of success. By the way: Letting the tail break away by braking or shifting your weight is cheating. Tip: Find a turn that is as tight as possible.

Our expert: Rampage rider Ethan Nell (25) from Utah. Ethan knows how to make dirt splash

I pump 2.4 bar into my tyres. I roll fast and my tyre sits firmly on the rim. I'm in attack mode on the approach. I stare the bend in the eye, ready to press into the berm with force and confidence in the next moment. Line choice, timing and precision are everything.