There are so many MTB riding techniques, wheelie guides and videos for nothing! Nevertheless, the reputation as poser moves makes Manual and Wheelie of little interest to many bikers - wrongly so, because both movement sequences have their meaning in practice, especially on enduro bikes ! Because even without riding on the rear wheel for long, manual and wheelie are always needed as impulse on the trail. You can find out how we can get the front wheel up using a clean technique and what else needs to be taken into account in the following exercises and examples. Tip: Changes to the cockpit can make manual and wheelie easier - higher > handlebars or with more backsweep or a shorter stem help noticeably.
1. Manual impulse: Learn dynamic weight shifting step by step
Many maneuvers in everyday trail life are based on the manual impulse (technical term for lifting the front wheel). Bad habit: Many people lift the front wheel by pulling the handlebars with their arms . This is easy to learn, but comes with risks and disadvantages . The dynamic shift of weight to the rear is cleaner. The manual works perfectly on dirt bikes , but it is more difficult on the stable and long downhill bikes .
Manual tip : During these exercises it can happen that you pull out of your arms again (this is easy to check with a video analysis on your smartphone or tablet). To avoid this autopilot during the relearning phase, you should carry out the movement several times in slow motion . This way you get a feel for it and can prevent automatic tearing. To roll longer on the rear wheel in the manual, you work by bending and stretching your legs - this way you can balance the balance spot over the rear wheel axle and keep the front wheel up.
2. Wheelie as an impulse and practical examples
There are thousands of MTB Wheelie driving technique apprentices who are honing this top move. The high start is considered an ice cream parlor move, but wheelies are fun and generally train your skills on mountain bikes. Off-road, you use the wheelie when you hit obstacles while cranking uphill and sitting in the saddle . And of course: if the impulse works, your ambition is awakened and you want to be able to do longer wheelies! Simply because they are so much fun, feel great and you like to show them off...
Generate tension: Bend your arms, upper body downwards and forward.
Pedal dynamically and lean backwards.
Crank evenly, one finger on the HR brake and balance the balance point.
If the VR drops, pedal harder - if you tip backwards, use the HR brake carefully.
MTB riding technique wheelie drop :
The wheelie drop helps you get down safely without starting and is a lot of fun! It also works with hardtails , you land clearly with the rear wheel first! Please aim for a maximum height of 1 meter, otherwise the material and bones will suffer too much! Start with high curbs at bus stops to internalize technique and timing. Higher platforms, such as a table tennis table, are very risky at first, so it's better to increase step by step ! Remember to wear protectors when you increase the height, the shins in particular need to be protected!
Very slowly or stand in front of the edge, body center of gravity low.
Pedal dynamically, stretching your arms and straightening your shoulders at the same time.
Keep pedaling courageously, keep your arms stretched!
Let the rear wheel consciously tip over and your legs will become straighter.
Before landing, arms and legs are long (landing gear extended).
Important: Gently cushion the impact from your arms and legs.
Practical tips : Manual and wheelie exercises should be varied so that fun and motivation don't fall by the wayside. There are a few key points to keep in mind:
1. Proceed step by step - initially as a dry exercise, practical applications only afterwards!
2. Practice together with other bikers to keep an eye on each other.
3. Constant repetition of the “new” techniques so that they are always available!
4. Commuters and city cyclists can practice on curbs ( lots of repetitions ).
5. Pay attention to your daily form and don't force it with a crowbar.
6. Solid and high obstacles send strong danger signals - so increase the whole thing slowly.
9. Use video analysis via iPad/smartphone , there are apps for super slow motion.
10. Watch online videos from professionals repeatedly to encourage visual learning .
11. Be patient with yourself and avoid sentences like “I’m an idiot, I can’t do it anyway”!
MTB driving technique wheelie with Marc Brodesser | Liquid Life
