FINE LINES

Five pro cornering tips from Team Raleigh-gac’s Steve Lampier

Practise looking at the entry point for hazards – gravel, rainwater, oil – and, if you can, the exit. Safety is key. In a race it’s different, but you’ve only got half the road in most UK sportives.

2

Make sure you do all your braking before the corner, then roll around it and accelerate out. You don’t want to grab a handful of brake mid-corner.

3

Get your weight distribution right. If you’re going round a left-hander, put most of your weight through your right-hand side, with your cranks at 12 and 6 o’clock. This helps with stability through the turn.

4

Corner on the drops. You’ve more control over your brakes, it lowers your weight, and your hands can’t be knocked off the bars if you hit a rock. It’s especially important downhill.

5

Don’t neglect your bike. Make sure your tyres are at the correct pressure for the weather and your body weight before your ride. Make sure your cables are in good working order, and that there’s no grease or residue on your braking surfaces, whether that’s brake blocks or disc rotors.