After record breaking high temperatures throughout much of the west coast, the forecast is for gray skies and at least some rain. Not only does the West Coast need rain, but the trails have started to get a bit dry, dusty, and even a little too loose. So while the sun was nice, newly tacked down trails will be that much better.
As we’ve said many times in the past, when the trails are wet, the riding will be different. By and large, damp is good, but there are special skills and techniques that need to be applied. The best way to learn about them is to take a Bikeskills clinic from the pros that had to earn a living, like Joe Lawwill, Paul Thomasberg, and Jiro Nakamura, who made their livings, rain or shine, on the World Cup tour. If there’s not a clinic located close to where you are, then watch this video we created to help you deal with the Slippery Stuff.
Video: Riding Roots, Rocks and Water Crossings
Check out this classic Bikeskills video and learn…
How to Handle Tricky Roots, Rocks and Water Crossings
Remember, there’s absolutely no reason to despair or put away your mountain bike when it rains.With some bike and body preparation, all you need are some skills to have fun out there. So check this video out and if you need more information on how to prepare your bike and body to resist the damage and discomfort of the elements, there’s a Bikeskills article titled “Wet Weather Riding” located at: http://www.bikeskills.com/?p=136 and here are the article’s highlights:
- A little water on the dirt often makes for optimal riding in terms of traction, reduced dust, loose rocks, etc.
- Even a light rain can make rocks and especially roots, a lot more slippery. This is something to keep in mind especially on the trails you ride the most often in the same way you need to think about those first rain’s effects on your daily commute to work and back!
- Some tires provide more traction and control in wet and slippery conditions and are also less prone to getting clogged with mud and gunk
- There are “things” on your bike you will need to keep well lubricated if you plan on riding in wet, messy conditions: chain, derailleurs, pivots, bearings, etc.
- Don’t forget about yourself! If you get wet, you will most likely end up getting cold so remember it’s often more important to stay dry than it is to worry about layering up, if the layers end up getting soaked. So think about bring a change of clothes more than wearing more clothes…
- Last, and certainly not least, there’s no doubt about it, wet weather, cold temperatures, etc. make for more challenging conditions which means more things can and will go wrong! Make sure to wear more protective gear including eye protection, pads, a full-face helmet if the trail is demanding…
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