BIKE SET-UP

Some small tweaks to your set-up can really help when it comes to tackling uphill hairpins.

SADDLE ANGLE

Having your saddle level will stop you sliding off the rear when riding uphill. It’ll also allow you to shift your weight forward more easily when you need to and help keep you balanced in the centre of the bike.

SADDLE HEIGHT

When you’re learning to ride switchbacks, dropping your saddle a centimetre or two (if you have a dropper post) just as you reach the turn will allow you to move around the bike a fraction more, helping you to keep your balance. When you’ve mastered the skill, try to ride at your normal seat height to maximise your power and ef iciency.

SHOCK SET-UP

If your rear shock has a ‘climb switch’ or ‘pedal lever’, you can use it to irm up your suspension. As well as reducing energy-sapping pedal bob (useful on long uphill drags), this will help your bike maintain its static (unsagged) geometry. With the rear suspension riding higher in its travel, you should ind it easier to get around tight uphill turns.

FORE/AFT POSITION

Move your saddle along the rails until you ind the spot where your knee is directly above the pedal axle with the crank arm in the 3 o’clock position. Sit further forwards than this and your knee will be in a weaker position, further back and you’ll lose weight over the front wheel.