FIVE TOP TIPS FOR HILL CLIMBING MASTERY

We caught up with outright lap record holder Oliver Holmes to get some tips on how to master a hill climb…

1 GET A GOOD CLEAN START

Don’t necessarily worry about the first 64 feet, but focus on getting into the first corner as fast as you can with the best line. A good first corner will fill you with confidence and set you up for the rest of the run.

2 BE SMOOTH

Just like on the circuit, you can ride erratically and it may feel quick, but the quicker runs usually come when things click and aren’t too rushed. One mistake here is impossible to get back, so be as smooth as possible – especially at Bouley Bay where momentum is everything.

3 GET THE LINES RIGHT

and most importantly get your entries right. You’ll only get limited runs, so focus on having your entries setting up the perfect exits and build. Make sure you walk the hill before you compete, and watch as many on boards as you can.

4 BRAKE LATE,

BUT BRAKE STRAIGHT

When it feels like it’s time to brake, count a second and then brake! There’s always so much time to be made when you first arrive at one of these things as you get so little track time. It’s always better to build up rather than landing in a ditch though!

5 POWER

Every single corner here, you need to be on the gas as, or preferably before you hit the apex. It’s all about carrying the momentum up the hill, so the best way to attack is to focus on gassing as hard as possible.