WIDER LINES
Setting up for wider lines has a huge knock-on effect on your exit speed. It usually takes a bit of effort to set up on the way in, but it’s worth it for the amount of time that it gives you to gauge your traction mid-turn and feel like you have more control on the exit. Start getting better at seeing your options on the way in. Often it’s too late to do anything about it, but the next time you ride the same trail you’ll know it’s coming up, so make a mental note to be higher on the approach next time. Gaining this extra height will lose you speed as well, so it often requires less braking. The main reason though is that it sets you up for a late apex. Inside lines generally lead to a lot of acceleration before the corner is fully negotiated. Riding a wider line, then dropping in, means that you do a lot of the corner before the bulk of the acceleration has taken place – way better for carrying speed out the other side.