Riding technique rear wheel offset: The must-do manoeuvre for alpine trails - explained by Tom Öhler

The beginner version

This technique is the only option for very tight hairpin bends. Important: steer first, then swivel. Many people ride too straight into the hairpin bend and bring the front wheel to a standstill too early. Practise the stoppie on easy terrain. You can practise your balance on the trackstand.

1 Approach

Check the hairpin bend for traction as you approach. Pick a point where you want to bring the front wheel to a stop. Important: Ride two thirds of the way into the bend. Speed: approx. half walking pace. Slower if in doubt.

2 Impulse kick-off

As soon as the front wheel reaches the desired position, pull the front brake. At the same time, dynamically extend your legs to support the weight transfer to the top. Important: The hip impulse already follows here.

3 Rum with it

As soon as the tail has lifted, continue to swing your hips towards the outside of the turn - the tail will follow automatically. The height is not decisive here. Your gaze supports the movement. Pressure on the inside pedal and handlebar end supports the turn.

4 Next

As soon as you have changed direction, release the brake. For more style and smoothness, try to release the brake gradually and roll a few centimetres on the front wheel. This will prevent the rear end from falling clumsily to the ground.

The Advanced variant

The steeper the terrain, the easier it is to ride on the front wheel. Practise the stoppie without any turns and get a good feel for the ground. Although this is the advanced version, some of my riding technique students find it easier.

1 Approach

Sight the hairpin bend and check the surface. Does it have a good grip or is it loose? If possible, look for a line with a grippy surface. Although it is rather loose in this bend, the pressure I have on the front immediately gives me sufficient traction.

2 Impulse kick-off

Start with a gentle steering impulse and lean the bike slightly into the turn. Then go from flexion to extension - subtly! At the same time, apply the front brake in a controlled manner. This increases the momentum. Result: The rear becomes light and lifts off.

3 Stoppie ride

Now it's quick. The more dexterity you have, the longer you can ride on the front wheel. Your gaze guides the movement. There is no impulsive hip swing with this technique. My hips only move slightly to the side to support the turn.

4 Rum with it

Try to fully extend the hairpin bend. My index finger continues to grip the brake lever in a controlled manner. I only release the brake when the front of my bike points towards the exit of the bend. Result: The rear wheel lowers and I can continue riding smoothly. Remember: With this technique, the wheels do not come to a standstill. Everything should happen smoothly and dynamically.

Now you!

Tom will correct your riding technique and give you personalised tips. Film yourself and post your attempts on Facebook @tomoehler or Instagram @tom_oehler Tag Tom and add the hashtag #howismyswitchback.

Want to find out more about the fascination of rear wheel offset? Click here to go to Reportage with self-experiment.