Don’t get stuck in a rut

Here’s the best way to tackle those tricky wheel-eating furrows

Ruts are deep grooves in the dirt or eroded lines, usually found on natural trails. In most cases it’s best to avoid ruts because they’re hard to get out of once you’re in, which means you’re basically heading where the rut takes you, rather than where you want to go. There are times when ruts can help you though. For example, in a corner where there’s no berm or limited grip, slotting your tyres into a rut can help you around. If you do this, make sure to get your bike cranked over, keep your head up, get off the brakes and look towards the exit. The most important skill when riding a rutted trail is to get your head up and spot good lines early so you don’t get sucked into the wrong rut. This might mean staying really wide or even hopping over a diagonal rut so you don’t end up trapped in it. If you do end up in a rut, look towards the exit and focus on staying in balance, with your pedals level – you can’t make small steering adjustments to keep your balance when both wheels are in a rut.