How to Hill Start on a Mountain Bike

Stalled out on a gnarly hill and can't get started again? Here's what to do.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Bike Chain Tool
• Bike Chains
• Mountain Bikes

1. Shift into an easy gear. Do this from a standstill by lifting the back of your bike off the ground with one hand, pedaling with one foot (clip into your pedal) and shifting your rear deraileur with the other hand.

2. Examine the terrain ahead and aim your front wheel for the easiest path to travel.

3. Hold both brakes. Keep one foot on the ground, the other clipped and ready to go.

4. Rotate your pedaling foot up so that as soon as you put pressure on it, you'll begin to move forward. For the right foot, this is at about the one-o'clock position; for the left foot, try 11 o'clock.

5. Keep your weight back over the rear wheel. Begin pedaling with the one foot as fast as you can. Release the brakes as you catch your balance and start to move.

6. Bring your other foot up and onto the other pedal. Look ahead and don't stop pedaling until you reach the top.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't try to hill-start in a difficult gear. This is a sure way to break your chain.
• Keep your body low over the handlebars and your weight on the saddle to prevent your front wheel from coming off the ground and your rear wheel from losing traction.
• On extremely steep hills, it's sometimes easier to turn around and ride back to a flat spot before re-attempting the ascent. Otherwise, start at an angle to the hill.
• Mountain biking is an inherently dangerous activity that can result in serious injury or death. We recommend that you seek proper training and equipment before attempting this activity.

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