The Biggest Mistake In Mountain Biking 🤔 Practice Like a Pro #29

[@asceticscorpio972]

So many MTB tutorials are basically rinse and repeats of "drop your ankles/push through your pedals/stay loose" but you guys are much more concise and as a viewer, for us that translates to more usable material in real world situations. Thanks and keep it up

[@reverentalexanderchezeley-6367]

Agreed. He keeps it simple.

[@idhvew8]

Thank you for what you all do and share. I am 62 years young and love to ride. I have learned a ton from your videos. I share with my wife and this helps to improve our rides together!!

[@dabbking]

Dude that's awesome you still ride!

[@DansDrives]

That advice about thinking about riding without handlebars to help body position is going to stick with me forever and makes so much sense. Thanks!!

[@Fluidride]

From therallyboss himself! So stoked that this resonated for you

[@anewperspective247]

I've really appreciated this series. Keep it up, team!

[@Fluidride]

Thanks for watching, Aaron!

[@N8MRN]

My nephew went through a bike camp a couple years ago. He was telling us that we needed to get our chest closer to the bars on rough stuff. All the adults said, no, no. After watching and learning for the last couple years, I'm allowing myself to be in a more aggressive position, and learning that it is safer and faster.

[@letsgoletsgoletsgoletsgoletsgo]

i was saying almost the same thing as you to my friends , and a lot of them still tell me to lean back ... omg the amount of bro science but really keep low and hips hinged that changed my game

[@rbruce63]

I even put my stomach on the seat to avoid going over the bar!

[@chase-n-trails7257]

Great video as always! Constant reminder to “drive knees forward ”. Thank you both!

[@Fluidride]

Thanks for watching- we're stoked that this is helpful!

[@dlchin05]

Thanks for so clearly addressing my (and apparently many others!) poor techniques . Your videos are so helpful and inspiring-you two have a wonderful dynamic that makes it fun and easy to watch and learn! Keep up the great work!!!

[@beau7160]

just getting back into riding after 15yrs. glad I found you to put my mind and technique back in place.

[@FlowConsciously]

REALLY LOVED this recap video! Connecting all the dots, in the various areas of how being too far back shows up REALLY connected For me today! You guys rock!

[@micycledalgleish2005]

Hi, thank-you times a thousand. Your knowledge and ability to communicate these vital techniques are second to none. I've watched a lot of MTB how-to videos over the years, but the ones you have so generously shared have been the most helpful and have increased my own abilities tremendously. I've been riding MTB for 38 years and had a lot of bad habits to overcome. The trails decades ago didn't require the kind of skills you need today, what with all the man made features and bike parks. Bravo Bravo Bravo!!

[@Fluidride]

Thanks for the kind words. Means the world to us! -Simon

[@ewaldbooysen5757]

Best instructional series, ive watched all of the rest , u guys top them all.., . Knees over toes , stand tall , push through lip...proper

[@Fluidride]

Thank you!

[@GeeWhit]

Thank you so much for making these videos. I think your classes resonate with those of us who came to mountain biking as adults, as we haven't necessarily had the time or flexibility to really PLAY with the bike and feel like it's part of our bodies in the same way that kids do. Also I am at a really similar level to when Linnea started the classes and always felt like the guidance out there was pitched at too low or too high a level for me. You guys have hit a gap in the content that needed to be filled. Thank you!!

[@Fluidride]

This is my favorite comment ever. That is exactly what was in the back of my mind when we were starting the series; that there was a gap on KZbin, esp for established riders looking to break through some barriers. Thanks for watching and for taking the time to share this. I'm stoked the skills are resonating for you! -Linnea

[@GeeWhit]

@@Fluidride Wahoooo we are vibing!! Keep doing what you're doing, you legend

[@69Tonyro]

Love this channel and all the deep insights. Keep up the great work 🤘🏻

[@oliverbourne9599]

Fantastic format for a video. It was extremely easy to relate the discussion here to my own riding and see myself for what I am in the issues discussed with Linnea. This has demonstrated and reinforced how important it is that I thoroughly assess my body position again in each of these scenarios. I'm going back to 'body position' in the Skills section in my Fluidride account instead of just assuming I was past all that 👌

[@humpy125]

ILove the way you break down the issues. Ihave learned so much. Thank you

[@SteveHofsaess]

Casper Wooley is a professional mtb rider,, His quote is "The front tire does all the work, the rear tire is just there for the ride"

[@andrec.136]

Don't ignore your rear tire on a skinny, though. If it drops off the front will follow. :)

[@Chris-de2qc]

That means nothing to me

[@colinberry276]

Wow super technical discussion that translates into so many trail situations and solutions to problems they present. Thank you!

[@Fluidride]

Thanks for the kind words Colin. So appreciated! -Simon

[@trotro80]

awesome series! getting a lot of input what to practice and improve my riding. thnx

[@hopNglo]

Extremely helpful videos. I make almost every mistake that you have mentioned! So incredibly helpful. Thank you.

[@hugovvr]

Such an interesting talk! You clearly stressed the big mistakes I do and i see when I teach young fellas in my mtb school (Vertt in BE). Thank you for your work!

[@gregbess3302]

really good video guys ... ive been riding since 1987 and am trying to eliminate all those bad riding techniques that i learnt early on ... AND steep faced jumps and steep terrain are my current challenges ,,, and youve covered it spot-on ... cant wait to get back on it ... :-)

[@Fluidride]

Yeah, so many things that don't translate from the way bikes were ridden in 87' for sure. My first whip was an 86 Bridgestone, so I can relate!

[@paullittleton1974]

Great recap video, good job of explaining things. I’ve enjoyed watching the progress and feel like I’ve been learning right along with her!

[@lorrainecornwell6232]

Fantastic! Great advice, so helpful. Love the series

[@paveldolezel8925]

Another awesome episode - thank you! Stand tall and as if you didn't have handlebars ... game changer - can't wait to go out on the trail, and practice.

[@derekbonevelle]

You guys have helped me make sense of so many things, thank you so much!

[@jaydpee7]

I seem to agree with a great number of the existing comments thus far. It's a great endeavour you have undertaken. This being said, ... it's also great for us to watch. Like tonight while out for my Thursday night road ride I was talking about the points you highlighted here and how I've been working those attributes into my off-road (and on-road) riding. Tomorrow is back on my mtn rig so I will again try to keep your summary in mind. Long way to say, ... thank you.

[@Fluidride]

Thank you for your support Jeffrey! While everything we talk about is demonstrated and coached with mountain biking, it applies in all sorts of different disciplines, we've had road riders and cyclocross racers find benefit in taking our classes and watching our videos. I hope your ride went well! -Kagen, Fluidride Coach

[@reverentalexanderchezeley-6367]

Yes, I learned from the start when I started mtbiking last June, 2023 at age 49. Stand up central over the pedals, stand up to all jumps small, medium, big and large stand up and boss the handlebars. After three weeks of practicing six hours a day, six day's a week it clicked together, (after many injuries coming off the bike to, lol). Within three weeks of hardcore and painful practice I was sending my cross country 2021 Specialized Rockhopper hardtail mtbike over 15 gap jumps at breakneck speed to. I discovered I had a natural talent for mtbiking that I didn't even know I had at age bloody 49 to. I'm 50 now, lol. So I upgraded my Rockhoppers 90 mill front suspension travel to 140 mill travel, whipped the two disk brakes off and put Shimano four piston front and back brakes on it. Took the two cogs off the front and replaced it with just one smaller front cog. With its 29 inch wheels, and replaced slim tyres with 2.4 wider chunkier tyres, it's now a Trail/Enduro mtbike that's a Blackbelt Cobra Kai fast as a bat out of hell mtbike. My wife then bought me a £3,700 Specialized Status 160 mill travel Enduro 2021 model full suspension mtbike, with £500 pounds worth of upgrades to it including Diety (I didnt even know that Diety is a top make) handlebars for £1,500 pounds second hand. Deal of the century. I progressed so quickly at this mtbike lark I was told by expert mtbikers who were pissed at me for my rapid progression that "I'd learned to do in 3 weeks what it took them 18 months to learn." I thought to myself "Well I didn't bloody mean to, it's not something I planned, it just happened." Jumping dirt jumps is something I've wanted to do since I was a teenager, but in the 70's and 80's in Wales, UK there were no dirt jumps, mtbike trails etc. Not to my knowledge anyway. So an expert mtbiker strongly suggested to me to buy an Enduro mtbike. Preferably the specialised status 160 cos it's a mullet and basically a bike park bike, playfull. Business on the front, a party at the back etc. My wife's American from New Jersey/Florida she lives with me here in Swansea city, Wales, UK. She's an expert bmx flatlander, we are intending to move to Seattle City, USA in a few year's to live and settle there permenently. The weather there seems quite similar to Wales, UK. Back in January I was racing expert mtbikers down the mtbike trails, i beat them even as a beginner. When I arrived at the bottom of the trail first I counted the seconds before the person in second place got to the bottom of the trail behind me. He was 40 seconds behind me. So there's a natural talent there, I have adhd to so I'm a bit fearless and a daredevil at going fast, lol. Maybe we can hook up with you both in a few year's when we move out to Seattle, USA from the Wales, UK. Thank you both.

[@james.8985]

That was an excellent constructive conversation that brought alot of my own mistakes and insecurities to surface. Thank you very much 👍🇦🇺

[@Fluidride]

Thanks for tuning in James! -Simon

[@johnhouston8297]

Love filling my day with your videos, then applying what I've learned during my end of day rides and really getting results. Still looking for some in person coaching here in Colorado. Keep it up and thank you!

[@Fluidride]

Hi John - we're stoked to hear you're getting results from this! Your focus and dedication to practicing will certainly take you a long way. So cool to read this and thanks for watching!

[@motomort]

My son and I break down the Friday Fails, and you are right... 90% of the crashes is caused by the weight being too far back.

[@seanknight9898]

Resonated for sure. This may have helped me figure out why with even low psi in my front forks, why I’m just not using all the travel. I didn’t think I was back that far but I may be wrong. Great vid.

[@ronnel1227]

thank you for explaining, hopefully can get that confidence to just do it :)

[@johnfischer2034]

This helped my riding so much! I ride mainly in West Texas (loose and flat corners galore) cornering was holding me back so much. I rode today thinking about this and set PB’s in a couple segments with what felt like half the effort because I had so much more corner speed.

[@BenjaminWasHere]

Ive got to share this! The ANSWER is "wheelies"... Yep. That's right. Wheelies. Only thru wheelies can you enter the kingdom of bicycle. Once upon a time, I was lost. And then, I was found...at least I found. I was wondering how do I "wheelie"...as in really.... What a waste of time. How is wheelie going to make me more aerodynamic? How will I raise my ftp, v02 max, my KOM? Right? Wheelies...? Wheelies are for Kids... HA. So there I was. Standing in the middle of the street with my shin pads down around my ankles, holding a trumpet an a Klondike Bar...and thinking..."where did this trumpet come from...'?? Hence began my Path. My Path to the Kingdom of Bicycle. And it was when I was at my lowest, knee pads down by my ankles, trumpet and all...that I saw Her. The Angel... The adorable little bundle of muscle angel Ive learned has a name: LINNEA... And ALL was revealed too Me... After a lifetime of traveling "along gravity," faster than most people believed possible; nearly 49mph at times (times I never even realized occurred in my meditation, until returning to my place of rest and Strava), I realized that I could also travel "away from gravity."... BAM! THUNDER CLAP!! MY EYES WERE OPEN - TO FLY WITH THE BIRDS!! And all THAT, because of an Angel! Named LINNEA...(quiet honestly, now that I have let loose the 80wpm typing ability upon the keyboard and I have become "FLUIDRIDE"...finally looking at that name...What an Odd Name...? No? Linnea...Ive never heard a name like that. Have You? Gonna have to go look this word up for its origin...I digress.)...who I earlier today, with complete randomness, watched Her instruction on Wheelies! (AHA! The reader thinks... Finally this guy is making sense... HA). Because Ive never thought, "I need to learn wheelies." I've been a Roadie, a weight Winnie, a slip streamer, warp drive, speed freak... And Here I am... My Path has been to watch the vid on wheelies by the adorable bundle of muscles LINNEA, which than a little less randomly, led Me here too look for an epiphany in MTN Biking... Need to go back and listen to the discussion again. After letting the ideas sink-in, repeat makes it clear and obvious. POINT IS: I only listened because I noticed, it was "the girl from the wheelie video"...hence..."my Angel' that Ive suddenly followed to another place of discover: Simon's channel. Thank You for catching My attention. And thank you for sharing the knowledge that I will now learn and add to my own. One last thing...I need a girlfriend...that loves to BIKE!

[@LanningKann]

I’m realizing how this has hampered me too. I ride like I’m on old school geometry because that’s what I was brought up on. My bike’s geo already has me pretty far back by the natural position. I should allow that positioning to work more naturally without throwing in my own temptation to move back.

[@EdLo.]

Very insightful video👍 great to see the progression!

[@russkgreen]

Super helpful. Thank you. And the trail moments are really well chosen - i can feel it as i sit here watching the clips. Gonna check out your online course and see what’s there.

[@Fluidride]

Right on Russ. We'll hope to see you at FluidrideOnline soon! -Simon

[@Yoda-em5mt]

I totally agree with your words of wisdom. Who ever the roadie was that thought long headstems were a good idea espessially if you like face planting has a lot to answer for. It is a hard habit to break the flapping of the back when you get scared but agreed it generally is the coarse of the problem. Man i wish it didnt take 40 years to get a bike with a font centre long enough to run a 32mm stem hoooo raaay at last.

[@Fluidride]

I hear you. So stoked for modern bikes! -Simon

[@thecount1001]

i have the exact same jump hesitancy. it's the norm for a large percentage of riders. spending time in the air is a foreign thing, driving assertively into a jump in order to commit to flight is just an unnatural thing that has to be overcome. some will, some won't. i'm hoping this is my year to do so. i used to be a good ww kayaker, requiring a solid roll. it's similar. getting people to remain calm while being upside down in cold moving water, with their legs locked into a boat is very psychologically complex.

[@Fluidride]

For sure James. We actually all have this at some level. I've even worked with Red Bull Rampage riders who (for good reason) struggle with this. My advice is to just build up gradually in jump size so that you can remain confident. -Simon

[@lienmeat]

This is a great series. It's gold for me. I recently discovered Duthie Hill with a friend of mine, and have ridden there 2x now. I'm not near as good as her and have a HT, but am competent enough to land all the drops ok in the central area, and hit smaller jumps, and do blue trails ok. I think watching through this series along with footage of myself to compare on the same jumps & trails will really help me progress and know what I'm doing wrong.

[@Fluidride]

We are so pumped to hear this! And yes that’s exactly what we hoped for, esp that local riders would go to these same spots and use the video as a learning tool. So happy you found Duthie! We are so lucky to have a progression zone like that!

[@richardbarton7]

Reminds me of the windsurfing technique analysing we used to do at the bar back in the 1980's !

[@GTS5691]

Really enjoy this channel - so professional and yet relaxed at the same time. My 'Go to' for MTB skills coaching.

[@Fluidride]

Means a lot to us. Thank You! -Simon

[@kevinwood8021]

Brilliant feedback session, I have learnt even more today. Thank you👊

[@Fluidride]

Thanks Kevin! -Simon

[@battsyboy9261]

This has been fantastic. Such in depth knowledge that's easy to understand. This vid has been the answer to many of my problems. Just got to implement what you have said 👍

[@Fluidride]

Thanks so much for watching!! And let us know how your practice goes! -LInnea

[@HighVybeTribe]

When I try to practice my jumping skills , I'm always in the way of other riders that come flying through!! Makes it difficult to get better !!

[@petedog9581]

I agree that people stay too far back, if you are on these long slack modern geos, but I still have a 26" long travel Enduro. Get a little center forward and it is OTB on drops and steeps. You have to stay rear center on techy stuff. People don't even know how to huck to flat anymore, bc they roil everything with big wheels. Have a 29er Stumpy too, and I ride it totally differently. I stay really centered, and having a dropper allows for that on steeps and drops. I think a lot of muscle memory carries over from small wheels to big wheels, and that is not easy for many to overcome on sketchy features. Great info.

[@mrsmartypants_1]

Really great stuff.

[@Dialed1]

Great discussion! Allot of great advice! Keep it up!

[@olecranonrebellion9976]

Great info. Some of the best.

[@Fluidride]

Thank you! Simon and Linnea are crushing it behind the camera. - Coach Kagen

[@CorkKNIFE]

"I was using the drop technique off of jumps" So simple when spelled out, not easy to come to via experience. Great comment.

[@Bittersfamily0424]

You guys are amazing! Foot work saved me coming down a loose decent this weekend👊🏻😎

[@Fluidride]

Footwork is a game changer for sure Gary! -Simon

[@johnchristopher5075]

What an excellent relaxed tutorial. It’s fried my brain good though........

[@nigelrandtoul8646]

I learn Soooo much from you. To help me keep centred over the bike, I have a sticker on the top tube, it says, "heavy feet & light hands ". I Love your videos.

[@Fluidride]

This is awesome Nigel, great sticker idea, I like it! We're glad you're enjoying them! - Coach Kagen

[@exothermal.sprocket]

When you just got into the full suspension game with an older used bike that has 69° slack angle, vs. the more modern 64.5° setups, it's a little intimidating staying forward in jumps and burms due to the twitchy steering. Also my wheels are 21mm inside width (tubeless) which doesn't contribute to stable tire sidewalls. But I've already washed the front twice in burms, first time my left elbow tucked and has bruised a rib. Second time my right forearm has gotten torn up a bit. I do wear D3O protection. I'm also running new Maxxis tires with plenty of grip f/r.

[@Fluidride]

Agreed. Even XC race bikes now have 67 degree or slacker angles. I know not everyone has cash to throw around with bikes, but I'd just say that modern bikes are MUCH safer to ride. A modern hardtail will run circles around even a big suspension bike made ten years ago or more.

[@exothermal.sprocket]

@@Fluidride Yes for context, my Stumpjumper with Carbon frame is a 2015. My last bike was a Rockhopper from 2001. Hahaha

[@gingermartinez7402]

I’m learning so much from your videos! Thanks for sharing your journey and knowledge 😊👏

[@Fluidride]

You are so welcome Ginger! Thanks for taking the time to send this note - means a lot to us. -Simon

[@darladonnelly7805]

Love all the info !! I learn so much from you two . Thank you 🙏🏼

[@andywelch6433]

I think I might just sign up for more!!

[@Fluidride]

We'd love to see you in our other home at FluidrideOnline! Thanks Andy! -Simon

[@TMAN882]

Yes, that bronco is sweet! And so are all these videos...

[@Fluidride]

Right!? Thanks TMAN, glad you like them! - Coach Kagen

[@graysquirreltreeservice7299]

My practice cones just came😁😁😁😁😁😁👍👍👍ready to shred some practice turns

[@Fluidride]

Cones are one of the single best tools in mtb. Good on you! -Simon

[@erich8258]

I liked Linnea's point about unsolicited coaching advice. As I've gotten into mtb over the last years, I've been surprised by how many experienced riders, especially of the Pinkbike commenter keyboard warrior variety, think it's their job to "coach the noobs." It's really off-putting, and the advice is usually bad anyway.

[@bouzouki2006]

We all wish we could have Simon as our teacher! :) Way to go Linnea!

[@rossgooding7423]

You can, for a measly $99- to learn from one of the best in the world! A steal...

[@bouzouki2006]

@@rossgooding7423 You mean online? I wish I could have Simon coaching me in person like Linnea... I guess everyone would... ;)

[@rossgooding7423]

@@bouzouki2006 yes. Just fly out here and treat yourself. You won’t regret it. Fantastic trails too.

[@MikeSwartz]

I’ve got to try shifting my stance and overcome that instinct to get far back. I’ve seen you at Duthie, love these videos.

[@Fluidride]

It makes such a big difference when the bike is really working for you! Thanks for watching and come say hi; we'll be back at Duthie soon 🤪 -Linnea

[@jaaan.20]

You both are amazing and so much inspiring for me. 😛

[@voges14]

I just took my bike for a ride around my neighbourhood with my family and while riding tried to keep my knee over my toes. I didn’t realize how far back my knees were before. Going to have to be something I really focus on while riding.

[@kevinw6282]

Yo, if you like the yellow Bronco, you already have style! Great series and great online material, apply and learn every time I'm out. MTB anew for this long time biker, thanks!

[@jessiefair7391]

You are both amazing love the education going to go join Fluidride

[@Fluidride]

Thanks Jessie! We are glad to have you here with us! -Simon

[@mannyfnsc29]

Hi Linnea. I was just curious if your (collarbone) crash affected your confidence and/or technique at all. I guess that was a while back, but did it take time to feel mentally comfortable again? I'm asking because that can be tough, but it seemed like you were right back at it pretty quickly. It's really helpful seeing your progress. Thanks guys! 🙂

[@Fluidride]

Hi Manny! I was fortunate with a couple things: 1. My surgery allowed me to get back on the bike quickly, so I didn't have to mentally get back in the game. 2. I went to several classes while i was injured, just to watch. This helped pass the time and I felt like I was learning even though I wasn't on the bike. HOWEVER I have not yet gone back to the zone where I crashed. I'll have to get back there in the next month or so and we'll see what that feels like! -Linnea

[@jimrutherford2773]

The advise of driving forward is a lot downhill skiing. Your weight is forward into your turns but if your weight is too far back, you will have trouble.

[@Fluidride]

Yes! Almost exactly like it. When we teach in person we often ask how many skiers are in the class because the concepts are so similar - even weighting in turns is similar. -Simon

[@olivermoore1074]

Question - I know your supposed to have heavy feet light hands while riding. But does moving your hips affect this? Because I don't want to move my weight on the handle bars and start to slouch, but I also don't want to hang off the back of the bike.

[@Fluidride]

That's an awesome question! You can actually practice this just standing off your bike. Imagine standing like a boxer (one foot forward, just like on a bike) and springing up and down. Now reach your hands forward as if you had handlebars but no weight on them. You'll notice that your knees are over your toes in a strong, athletic position. Then take it to the bike - put your bike in a floor stand, hop on, and do the same thing. Practice dropping all your weight into your pedals, with no weight in your hands. Think about being in the boxer's position, and not hinging at the waist. Notice where your knees are in relation to your toes, and how the suspension compresses evenly when you bounce up and down. By driving your knees forward over your toes, you're keeping your weight centered over the bottom bracket, allowing your hands to hold onto the handlebars without actually putting pressure through them (and also without needing to slouch). Hopefully that makes a bit of sense! Let us know! - Linnea

[@olivermoore1074]

@@Fluidride Thank you! That definitely clears things up.

[@Fluidride]

@@olivermoore1074 Awesome! We have lots more on our online school too, if you want to learn more! fluidrideonline.com

[@sepultubob]

Thanks for sharing ! Would you say big wheels and modern geometry helps being more on the front end of the bike ? I ride an old 26" hardtail and I've got to say that I tend to lean back when I go over obstacles. The long stem also makes the front wheel unstable at times.

[@Fluidride]

So glad you asked! YES, old school bikes with steep head angles are so much less forgiving. The modern way of riding suits modern bikes, with modern geometry. Getting on an older bike reminds me how much harder this sport used to be! I'm glad you asked! Stay safe out there, and if you can, see if you can pick up a used hardtail with more modern geo. Doesn't have to be the best or most expensive bike. You will be shocked how much safer and more forgiving it is. Happy Trails. -Simon

[@MKotz64]

Some great instructions on this video, thanks. I have had serious washouts while getting aerodynamic at speed. I am thinking my weight was too far back. What advice do you have advice for reaching speed and body positions?

[@stratoskatsipidis9395]

Can you do a bike fit - bike size video, since a lot of people get wrong size bikes ( up sizing ) ,would be interesting to see how you guys recommend to choose a bike. Thanks

[@cgm55082]

Yes!

[@topcat304]

The thumbs down are probably from people who haven't watched the series. I've watched most episodes and the other Fluid Ride stuff. The mechanics of flow are making more sense.

[@rossgooding7423]

He’s in Cabo chugging cocktails and riding with Linnea, probably jealous.

[@Allsystemsaredown]

More great stuff here. It's like listening in on Yoda coaching Luke Skywalker.. :-) I wonder if the often touted "drop your heels" advice is partly to blame for people being back too much. I like the "knees over toes" philosophy. Thanks!

[@Fluidride]

What a great compliment! Most appreciated! -Simon

[@norcalchrismeister]

Nice vid. Should we also focus on keeping the knees over the toes on climbs?

[@Fluidride]

Generally riders don't have to think about this as much since putting power down naturally lines us up. But yes, we will have more power with this alignment. Interesting question. I had to think about it, but think the answer is yes. -Simon

[@norcalchrismeister]

@@Fluidride Cool. I appreciate your help. You're a great instructor!

[@braddyboy83]

Hi guys, been watching the channel for a while it is 2nd to none! I had a crash coming off the wall ride (that I'd been riding fine every day for 2 weeks) on the Hero trail at Mystic in Victoria Australia. I landed on my right shoulder and arm, which was protected by pads apart from some grazes. Unfortunately my right hand was driven into the ground with my bars, and my little finger was badly broken at the bottom just before the knuckle. I had to have surgery on it and now have a small metal plate in there, it was the most suitable for my injury according to the surgeons and more expensive for the hospital. I had my cast off on Thursday and have to do physio for 6 weeks. The finger is completely stiff :( I'm worried about biking again. I don't want to sell my bike, but there is just no way I can go through this again. If i hadn't had surgery my grip and use of my hand would have been seriously compromised, the finger would have scissored and i wouldn't have been able to make a fist. So I need to be very careful with it now. If i got back on the bike I'd be worried about it and it might affect my riding. Just wondered if you had any advice and how you felt about it with your collar injury experience? I have a top model Norco Range big 180mm travel e-bike. I bought it to help me become an awesome rider. And it was working, I'm doing most of the things in your videos, knees over toes and sending it! It allowed me to practise over and over again. But now I just can't take the risk. Mountain biking is awesome as we know, so exciting and enjoyable abut a lot of people get serious injuries doing it. I don't want to quit, but is it worth it? Is it possible to ride safely? I was riding within my limits and capabilities, my shoulder and arm were protected, I should have walked away. It was just unfortunate my finger got caught. I've been riding 14 years and never really crashed but I never did any advanced riding/features. In the last year i upped my game, bikes and protective gear and really made big progress but took a few stacks along the way, one rolled ankle, broken finger, cuts and grazes. One swan dive off a 2m drop that i didn't know was there, landed on my feet totally unharmed! I want to keep riding but i feel like further injury would be inevitable. Maybe i should sell the the beast ebike and get a normal trail bike and dial it back down to intermediate. Regards, Joe.

[@pablomerol]

Are you guys doing clinics in Mexico? Todos santos or what part of Baja? Thanks

[@Fluidride]

Hey Pablo! We are in Todos Santos in winter and are happy to get instruction set up. Right now we are doing tours next winter, but will have several instructors here and will plan to do some teaching. Feel free to contact us at [e-mail] for any details as they emerge. We'd love to ride with you. -Simon

[@pablomerol]

@@Fluidride awesome! Thanks for the info!

[@noobsinthewoods5194]

Good work!

[@tr1ckster726]

This is my biggest problem, I'm always dragging me arse on the back tire and wondering why I can't turn or do anything cool 😞

[@marcelovieira3493]

Great content. Keep it up! What do you recommend clipped or flat pedals? I have been riding clipped for a long time and am thinking of going flat. Thanks

[@Fluidride]

Knowing how to comfortably ride both is where it's at. If you have been clipped in for a long time, you should try flats for sure. If you have any issues, that means that your technique needs work. I teach in flats but do serious rides clipped in. -Simon

[@hopNglo]

Hey Simon…I noticed Jason, and many other great jumpers, pull back on the bars and push through the feet in order to roll the back tire off the lip with power. I have tried this technique and it feels like the proper way to really push off the lip of the jump. When I do it correctly, like a bunny-hop, I feel like my jumping is properly executed and I have some free time at the apex to consider more style. I’m wondering your thoughts on this “BMX type” approach to jumping. Thank you.

[@Fluidride]

When it's done correctly, it's correct. Jason can do similar things. The issue is trying to explain that to folks who are just trying to get good form as that approach when done right is so hard to explain to a new jumper. But, that is the way very high level riders get extra boost off jumps! Hope this helps. -Simon

[@hopNglo]

@@Fluidride Thanks Simon. I spend a lot of time bunny hopping while keeping my vision up and not at my front wheel. This gives me the confidence to pull the bars back toward my hips with less fear of flipping backwards. When it comes to jumps, I worked with really small jumps first and didn’t go very fast. Then I had no choice, but to really pull back and push off with my legs. Thanks again for all the incredible knowledge and excellent way you are able to convey these concepts. Been a huge help to me.

[@Fluidride]

@@hopNglo You are most welcome. Thanks for tuning in! -Simon

[@Paulklampeeps]

I noticed that when I'm standing on the face of the jump the rear wheel also comes off the lip at same time with the front wheel. So I'm completing the whole jump.

[@traildogisla]

I would be interested to hear both of your thoughts on correct bike sizing and modern geometry

[@cgm55082]

I second this. Would love to hear your thoughts on proper sizing and how modern geometry impacts that.

[@Ron_Boy]

I agree. I just made the switch from a SC 5010 Large to a Medium and it made a huge difference, for the better. But it would have been better to go straight to the Medium. The new, constantly changing geometries makes it very confusing.

[@ajj4483]

Simon, have you ever thought about running your weekend courses in Europe?

[@boringol]

Sounds a bit like skiing a black run. Lean back and you are history. Dive forward keeping perpendicular to the slope and you are in control

[@Fluidride]

Yeah it is so true!! In skiing it's more natural because you don't have the handlebars as "enablers" 🤣 A perfect analogy for using edges and staying balanced

[@mrlaforgephysics]

You found the bronco! Awww... You promised that you would....

[@randifolwell]

Just a quick comment, first you have a great video on wheelies. I am really small 5ft tall. Anyway when I try to get my weight back I feel limited by my reach. Maybe I should head to the bike shop and maybe try some handlebars with alittle sweep?

[@Fluidride]

Thanks for the note! I'm 5'3, so a little taller, but I understand the struggle for sure. I actually wouldn't modify your bars at all! A short stem probably wouldn't hurt for a variety of other reasons, but I'd set your bike up for best performance on-trail. For the wheelie, the key is really timing and power delivery through your legs. Bringing the bars back won't make nearly the difference that good timing and body position will make!! You can also try getting a side-view video of yourself. Look for places where you're losing energy. Check the upper body for head tilting forward or shoulders tilting forward, or down and think about peeling your shoulders back and pointing them up to the sky as you're pedaling forward. Also look for timing issues where you're pushing into your pedals but the energy isn't transferring into the front wheel - there's a lot of waste here when the timing is off. It's really hard to get it right... don't get discouraged!! It took me months and months. Keep at it! -Linnea

[@voges14]

I can’t wrap my head around how being too far back would somehow make your front end dive down off a jump/drop. I would think being too far back would do the opposite. I remember you talked about it in a past video but I can’t find it. Do you remember the video where you discussed it? Thankyou

[@gogovitch66]

Hey, allow my to try to explain. Think about leverage on flat ground. Is it easier to pull your bars up, when you are centered on the bike or far back with arms almost locked out? When you wanna do a J-hop, you need to create a pulling force on your handlebars. Jumping is like a j-hop movement, but usually with less force. Does it make sense to you? Let‘s me know.

[@voges14]

@@gogovitch66 hey thanks for taking the time to explain. It does make sense, just a hard habit to break I guess. Are drops a bit different? I feel I always see people with their buys almost over their back tires on drops. Maybe that’s why it’s difficult to separate the 2. Thanks again.

[@gogovitch66]

@@voges14 glad I could help :) it looks different on drops for 2 reasons/techniques: either 1. you drive your bike forward over the edge and recenter yourself over the bike in the air, before impact/landing. Or 2. you create tension between handlebars and feet/pedals while you are pretty much centered over your bike and keep the tension during the drop to keep your bike level (by shifting your hips back), until the back wheel rolls over the edge. Good luck practicing 🤙

[@randywelt8210]

Wanna see Linnea jumping the Bronco.

[@Fluidride]

I wanna see me jumping... into the driver's seat haha 🤣 -Linnea

[@davidschram5016]

@2:02 hmmm..I feel like I've seen this before...deja vu? :D

[@w.baillie2923]

Lets not forget the amount of tech and engineering that has gone into modern day bikes and suspension that allows for more aggressive riding positions. In the past, with 2 inches of fork travel the positioning and riding was much different.... hopefully old bad habits die quickly. Ride safe y'all

[@Fluidride]

Indeed. Good point of clarification! If you have a super old bike, then riding this way won't translate well. -Simon

[@powskier]

Mexico?! Do you bring Walmart bikes down there? I couldn't imagine bringing an expensive mountain bike down there.

[@nikoyannaros48]

With the modern bikes with long reach i'm struggling to keep my weight centered and my heels low. I'm slipping forward on the pedals and I have far too much weight on my hands and my arms are too extended. I put the shortest stem and took the smaller frame and i"m fine. But it is quite old school and i'm wondering how people can ride with the recommended sizes.

[@TheZweric]

I get it, my bike is rather long, but I think it is the front/rear balance that's off. by either shortening the reach or lengthening the chainstays the weight can be better balanced in the middle as propotionally more weight goes to the front wheel. As is, I have to ride crazy aggressive and muscle the bike through the gnar. the 61 head angle adds to that 😅 anyways, since my frame has adaptable geometry, I'm looking at lengthening the stays by 20mm

[@nikoyannaros48]

@@TheZweric i had once a bike with long chainstay and i didn't like it. It was like the front is digging into the ground and the rear doesn't want to turn. Therfore i bought the nomad with short chainstays. It feels like i'm turning the bike over the rear axle with pulling the handlebars out of the turn. Difficult to discribe. I wish I would have a professional instructor to tell me whats going on and if i have to change my style /technique.

[@ersonvelasco2531]

I’m guilty as charged. 😂

[@Norway-BOY-MTB-Mountainbike]

Liked !!!

[@gr637]

The biggest mistake is to ride with a dropper post without the saddle 🙂

[@texfromro]

Any bicycle is designed to perform when the weight sits over the bottom bracket

[@cliffordrichardc]

learn a lot yhx

[@ericcollins910]

So knees over toes huh

[@GaedeRafael]

Once again... Nice content!! Just for curiosity... Are you engaged?

[@Fluidride]

Hey Rafael. We are only co-workers and not romantically involved at all. We are both single.