Have you ever watched a skilled rider effortlessly glide through a trail, floating over rock gardens and railing corners like they’re on rails? That magic is called flow, and it’s the difference between just riding and truly ripping a trail.
At SkillsLoop, we help riders unlock their flow, breaking old habits and refining techniques to make every ride faster, smoother, and more controlled. So, how can you improve your flow and take your riding to the next level? Let’s dive in!
1. Look Ahead & Read the Trail
One of the biggest mistakes riders make is looking down at their front wheel instead of scanning ahead. Trails are full of natural cues—roots, rocks, berms, and transitions—that tell you how to move. By keeping your eyes up and reading the terrain early, you can anticipate what’s coming and adjust your speed and position for maximum efficiency.
2. Trust Your Bike & Loosen Up
Your bike is built for this! Modern suspension, grippy tires, and progressive geometry mean that your setup is designed to handle rough terrain—if you let it. A stiff, tense body fights against the bike’s natural movement. Instead, stay relaxed, keep your arms and legs loose, and let the bike move beneath you. When in doubt, let the suspension do its job!
3. Brake Less, Ride More
Braking at the wrong time is the enemy of flow. Many riders slow down too much before technical features, causing them to lose momentum and rhythm. Instead, focus on braking early and letting go before the feature. This allows you to maintain a smooth speed through corners, rock gardens, and drops, rather than getting stuck in stop-and-go mode.
4. Find the Right Lines
The best line isn’t always the obvious one. Sometimes, a slightly wider entrance into a corner sets you up for a faster exit. Other times, avoiding the “main” line means skipping the braking bumps and riding on fresh, grippy dirt. Stopping to session sections and experiment with different approaches can unlock hidden speed you never knew was there!
5. Ride with Confidence & Commitment
Hesitation is flow’s biggest killer. If you second-guess yourself mid-feature, you’ll lose momentum and control. The key is to commit—whether it’s a drop, a jump, or a technical section, trust your skills and follow through. If you’re unsure, session it a few times at a controlled speed until you build confidence.
Ready to Level Up? Join a SkillsLoop Course!
At SkillsLoop, we specialise in helping riders of all abilities develop smoother, faster, and more confident riding. Whether you’re looking to master rock gardens, boost your jumping skills, or refine your trail flow, our coaching sessions at Cannock Chase and Hill Top Bike Park will give you the tools to progress.
🔥 Are you ready to transform your riding? Book a course today at www.skillsloop.com