"Ratcheting the Pedals" Mountain Bike Skill: Exclusive Diagram
 |
| Photo Credit: Greg Rides Trails |
When Would You Need to Ratchet?
First, when would you need to use this skill? It can be useful when you are going through a rock garden with rocks high enough that a full pedal stroke would strike the rocks and send you off your balance and off your bike, if you are fording a stream and are trying not to get your feet wet, or if there is some other obstacle that you are trying to avoid.
How to "Ratchet"
- As you approach the obstacle in question, choose your line and the amount of speed you want to take in (if you have a choice).
- Note any rocks you might particularly want to avoid, or note the depth of the water.
- Get the cranks to 10 and 4. (Locations on the clock.)
- When you reach the gnarly section (or water), make about a quarter of a pedal stroke without pushing all the way around. The cranks should end at about 9 and 3 or 8 and 2.
- As you make each stroke, quickly back pedal to your previous position, and make the partial-stroke again.
- Repeat as needed.
Here is the technique, graphically presented for you:
|
| Photo Credit: Greg Rides Trails |
Just so you don't forget, this technique is referred to as "ratcheting the pedals" because it utilizes the same repeated partial-stroke motion that a ratchet strap does:
 |
| Ratchet Strap Photo Credit. |
Want to learn more skills? Check out the rest of the skills series!
6 comments:
Never thought of pedaling this way before - But I can definitely think of specific instances (and even locations) where this would definitley come in handy!
Thanks for the tip btw - Great post! Too the point, and very descriptive and effective for the amount of words you used. Like the graphic as well! Next step, a flash-gif image showing the repeated motion. :D
This is one of them techniques that once you begin to use it and get comfortable with it, you will utilize it more and more. Ive used it cutting across very steep slopes where the trail wasn’t wide enough for full crank revolutions and it also comes in handy for up & over logs, etc.
@AJ, Glad I could help you out!
I don't know about the GIF, it took me long enough to design this! :-D
@Daniel, I agree, once you become comfortable with it it becomes second nature!
This is a great post, very useful information. For me, this was a technique I kinda stumbled upon by accident - but has proven very useful especially in rock gardens and tight turns over roots.
For those starting out, or looking to up their game, your write-up will certainly give them that advantage to look for situations to use it, and use it effectively.
Thanks eastwood, that's what I'm trying to do: create a good resource for beginners to use.
Sweetness
Post a Comment