top of page

Mountain Bike Brake Control!

Writer's picture: Katrina StrandKatrina Strand

Updated: Oct 24, 2022

How to have so much brake control down a rock face you get bored!


It's a common question: "How do you have so much control down THAT?!

Read on, and take notes from the vid above!


Tip #1 - My body position!


Start in neutral position - hips high, slightly bent at knees / elbows, chin over stem. Think hip hinge for all those gym people. I'm tall! If you watch this video from beginning to end you will see how I maintain that position until I pick up a bit more pace down rougher terrain at the bottom. At that point I 'bow' slightly (increase the hinge) to establish a stronger base of support and accommodate for the increases in pressure.


Often I see people in a constant 'attack' position - really low over the bike. But, starting low gives you little room for movement. Starting tall, and maintaining that for as long as possible, gives me all the range I need, and a more consistent feel down the rock face.


"Starting tall, and maintaining that for as long as possible, gives me the range I need and a more consistent feel down the rock face " – Katrina Strand

Tip #2 - Front brake!


Here, I am holding the front brake almost to threshold (so just before wheel is locked) and brought my rear brake in, but not as much as my front, along with modulating to avoid (or limit) skidding.


This is where I start - with a lot of front brake and modulating the rear as I need to. Of course if you feel the front brake lock, a little release (not a let go!) will help it gain traction again.


Tip #3 - Great brakes make a difference!


I choose Shimano XT 4 piston. I love the feel of the lever, and the huge continuum (modulating capacity) I get to work with.


Try it out!


I hope some of these tips help you 'get bored' next time you tackle a rock face!


Want more? Contact us to book your customized mountain bike coaching session!

Recent Posts

See All

Comments


Supporting Partners

Transition.png
FOXHEADHORIZONTAL.png
WTB logo.png
Shimano_logo .png
HR Aeroe Black Logo.png
logo with trademark2.jpg
RideWrap-Z-Logo-Orange.png
FOX Logo.jpg
square.png
Chromag-Bear-Side-Logo.png
EvoWhistlerlogo.png

STRAND TRAINING / KATRINA STRAND

Based in Whistler, BC, Canada.  Servicing Whistler, Pemberton, Squamish, Virtual

Bachelor of Human Kinetics / Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist

P&PA (Pregnancy and Postpartum Athleticism)

PCES (Postpartum Corrective Exercise Specialist)

PopUp Pro (Pelvic Organ Prolapse Professional)

Pregnancy and Postpartum Coach 

300 Hour Shamanic Yoga Teacher Training 

FMS (Functional Movement Screen) Level 1

Mental Strength Coaching Certification

PMBIA (Professional Mountain Bike Instructor) Level 2

PMBIA Youth Module

NCCP Level 2 Mountain Bike

©2023 STRAND TRAINING

​

  • Instagram - White Circle
  • Facebook - White Circle
bottom of page