Master the Turn: A Common Cornering Error
Some of my students are avid learners, and for some, my course marks the second or even third attempt at mastering mountain biking skills. Their prior instruction often came from well-meaning certified instructors who, unfortunately, taught certain skills incorrectly (in defiance of the laws of physics).
A classic example is the concept of cornering, where some students recall being instructed about the “windshield wiper” technique. One student demonstrated this by pushing down on his right hand while simultaneously lifting his left hand. To turn left, he reversed the motion by pushing down on his left hand and pulling up on his right hand.
Contrary to intuition, if you want to turn left, you should push your left grip FORWARD—a technique known as counter-steering in motorcycling.
I prefer the term “counter-pressure” because, after initially steering in the opposite direction, the front wheels naturally want to “flop” back to the correct way.
Only when sliding our rear tire through a corner will we be consistently counter-steered, similar to speedway motorcycle racers.
See this photo for reference. (courtesy of Wikipedia)
The key goal for mountain biking, in terms of control and efficiency, is to carve turns with both tires while maintaining traction.
This is achieved using counter-pressure—pushing the left grip forward to turn left and the right grip forward to turn right.
Once the bike leans in the desired direction, we fine-tune the turn’s radius by adjusting the pressure applied. To turn sharper, we increase pressure, causing the bike to lean further. If the turn is too sharp, we release some pressure, allowing the bike to stand up.
At a given speed, the more the bike leans, the tighter the turn. As speed increases, we must lean the bike further to maintain the same turning radius.
None of this resembles the windshield wiper motion.
Although we may simultaneously push forward and down (initiated from our shoulder, higher than the handlebar), it’s not a straight downward push; it must go forward.
In these videos shot a few years ago, I break down counter-pressure, cornering body position, and vision:
If your trails are unrideable due to weather conditions, this is an excellent time to practice skills like cornering. It’s advisable to ingrain these skills in a safe area, such as a paved parking lot, as it’s nearly impossible to practice as effectively on the trail!
Please share this article with anyone you think may benefit and feel free to call or e-mail with any questions.
Thanks and create a great Winter season,
Gene
Micro & Macro Sucks according to Huberman
I relaxed, saw the line I wanted to take, found my balance and went through the section very controlled – it was great!
Awesome videos! I love that you included the neuroscience to create the habit!!!
Thanks, Kimberly! Knowledge is worthless until one creates the habit. I’ve had many great teachers help me understand how we learn, it’s a cornerstone of my coaching.
I used this yesterday and had one of my best training days. I found a track with many quick turns and on the entry to everyone I would call out loud the command “push”… with a light grip on the bars and a gentle counter pressure the bike dipped into the turn and carved it with ease. Such a great feeling! Thanks, Gene!
Hey Brad, You are welcome. Sounds like a great training ride! Keep it up.