Standing up?

[lotisi]

Once a week I go and do single track with a crowd of mates (to aleviate the loneliness of riding alone). I have noticed that most of them stand up on the pedals on steep inclines. I have avoided doing this so far as it looks inefficient to me but am I missing a good trick?

[neil_cardiff]

lotisi said:

Once a week I go and do single track with a crowd of mates (to aleviate the loneliness of riding alone). I have noticed that most of them stand up on the pedals on steep inclines. I have avoided doing this so far as it looks inefficient to me but am I missing a good trick?

Nope.

There are various techniques, and for technical climbs the one you may be seeing is known as feathering.

You can move your weight backwards and forwards on the bike to gain grip. However it depends on what type of bike you ride, your skill, and also your weight.

On super steep stuff I stand up, the rest I sit and grind away...

However if its a hill in which it is short enough, or it isn't all that tricky, I will power up standing by using a slightly higher gear.

All horses for courses - and one definitly worth giving a go to see if it suits you.

[lotisi]

Thanks Neil. I did try it a couple of times but I gave up due to wheel spin even with my weight as far back as I could get it. I am 90 kg's, ride a hardtail (Mongoose) and I'm old (or at least feel it), new to mountain biking but getting better and fitter. Just trying to find ways to keep up with my more experienced mates who tend to "lead me a blinder" when I ask for advice. I will try again when I get some new tyres.

[pdV6]

You just have to shift your weight about to balance rear traction with the front wheel lifting. Same applies sitting or standing, although on really steep loose stuff you probably can't get enough weight on the front wheel whilst sitting, depending on the geometry of your bike.

On smooth, moderately steep hills I personally find staying seated and spinning easier and faster than grunting out of the saddle but coupled with that, on long climbs a change can be as good as a rest - so alternating can help.