Off-roading on hills

A recce is of great help when climbing or going down hills; it lets you know the lay of the road, where it turns and, most importantly, if you can climb back down or up. Selecting the right gear is crucial too as too low a gear will have you spinning your tyres while too high means you won’t have enough grunt to go up. The thumb rule, for most cases, is to climb in second and then descend in first. For an auto 'box climb in third and descend in first. Gather momentum at the base of the hill and then ease off as you get to the crest. Also be prepared for failed attempts and have an escape route ready. If you need to park, turn off the engine and leave the vehicle in gear. Always apply the handbrake. Also, remember to place wooden chocks or stones to the higher set of wheels.