subject: Cycling In Mud Or Rain [print this page] Riding a mountain bike can be more funRiding a mountain bike can be more fun. Yet, they can be more dangerous. Given the different ground surfaces like hills, jungles, trails and so on make mountain biking even more exciting. However, these different terrains also require varying cycling methods. It can be a tough thing to do especially as a beginner.
This article discusses the things you face when riding in mud or rain. The riding methods are almost similar to riding on sandy surfaces. But this time, it is wet for rainy and muddy areas. If a surface is wet, this means you get less friction. As a result, your tires will get less traction and you are more likely to slip or skid. On the other hand, wet soil will give you more traction than dry soil.
Concurrently, riding on mud can be quite difficult. When riding on muddy surfaces, you have to understand that your wheels might suddenly slip sideways for no reason. The key is learning to expect it and controlling it. What you want to do is to maintain on your straight path and get to your destination without much steering. When it the side way slip does happen, you just have to pedal harder or continue cycling in your straightest line.
Then you will notice the slipped wheel will be back straight with the bike's alignment. As a good tip, you should speed up your ride when you know you are approaching a muddy area. This is where you have to make use of momentum. This is because momentum is the very thing that will get you past the slippery mud. By now, you should know that surfaces with gravel or grass will give you better traction, if compared to mud.
Therefore, try to cycle on these surfaces rather than resorting to cycling on mud. Sometimes, you will have to go up a hill that is muddy. This can be a real challenge, especially for beginners. You just have to use your momentum to power your way through. In cycling, momentum is your best friend. As for mud holes that are deep, you must lean your body to the back. Then yank the handle bar towards yourself when pedaling. When you are yanking the handle bar to make the "wheelie" motion, you are actually increasing traction towards the effective "digging" rear wheel. Remember to pedal hard and let the momentum carry you.
The aggressive rider will always fare better than the gentle rider in this case. Sometimes, the mud holes do not appear as they do. It can be a much deeper hole than you think it is. It is best to avoid these holes if you can. But if you have to go through it, then take the time to analyze it by stopping first.
As a rule of thumb, you should never follow a cyclist in front of you too closely. This is because mud and water will get splashed at you. Also, you must lower the pressure of your tires for riding in mud. Lowering your tire pressures will give you better traction. When you do go slow, riding also becomes safer. Keep a lookout for objects that appear on the road, especially sharp objects. As a final tip, keep your water bottle in your jersey's pocket. This way, your bottle water is safe and clean to drink.
