What You'll Learn

My coaching style helps you learn correct riding technique while building upon your skill and confidence. No matter what your level, I can help you get better. How? By being an “interactive video camera”: I’ll show you what you’re doing and help you improve by making adjustments to your technique. I use proven methods that have worked for literally thousands of riders. (I use a real video camera, too!)

RIDER COMPARTMENT SET-UP 

Before you even start riding, you need the handlebar height and reach, and saddle position that is right for YOU.

PROPER SEATED RIDING POSITION 

How you sit while pedaling makes a big difference in how comfortable you are. I’ll show you proper placement on the saddle and correct posture.

BRAKE CONTROL 

You’ll learn how to make the brakes work in dirt, from slow speed singletrack to high-speed descents.

PEDALING CADENCE 

You’re the motor, and you need to work efficiently. Proper gear selection and cadence (revolutions per minute) are critical if you want to maximize your energy and stamina.

DESCENDING 

The Jockey Position. It’s like a balanced athletic position in traditional sports. It’s easy to learn, and once you do you can go down just about anything! 

SLOW SPEED MANEUVERING 

As much as we like to go fast, most of the time we’re going slow. I’ll get you comfortable with slow speed maneuvering in tight situations.

CLIMBING 

Most people only use their legs when climbing. I’ll show you the secret to getting your entire body to power the bike uphill.

STARTING AND STOPPING ON HILLS 

We all have to stop some time. I’ll show you how to get started again.

TECHNICAL CLIMBING 

Once you learn the basic climbing technique, we can move on to climbing steep hills with rocks, ruts, logs, and loose dirt.

TECHNICAL DESCENDING 

Steep, rocky descents are one of the most intimidating things about mountain biking. Learning how to stay low while using your legs as shock absorbers is the key.

CORNERING 

There are several ways to keep the bike from sliding at speed--it’s all about weight transference. I’ll also show you how to work with the bike to float through turns and maintain momentum.

CONTROLLING THE FRONT AND REAR WHEELS 

A little wheel-lift goes a long way. You can use it to get up over an obstacle when climbing, descending, or even on flat terrain; front tire, rear tire, or both.

ADVANCED SKILLS 

You’ll find that once you properly master the previous skills, you will be more confident in all aspects of your riding. However, there is no substitute for time in the saddle. As you gain confidence you will try more difficult terrain. There are advanced techniques that can help you with the most severe terrain, and this is where my instruction becomes the most valuable. Whether you just want to be a better all-around rider, or want to improve your racing performance, I can help. Your hard work will be rewarded!