Things You'll Need:
- Mountain bike
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Step 1
Pedal. A mountain bike, like any other bike, is powered manually. And while it seems like common sense, there is an art to pedaling. Constant pedaling can tire you out quickly, so it's best to find a rhythm. If you maintain a consistent speed, when it comes time to accelerate, you won't have to accelerate as much. However, if you're already riding too slowly, when you're faced with a steep incline, you might not make it.
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Step 2
Use your gears. Most mountain bikes incorporate a gear system into their designs. These gears help maximize the power you generate when you pedal. Lower gears require quicker pedaling but less power and are ideal for uphill climbs, while higher gears require slower pedaling but more power, making them essential for downhill rides. Utilizing your gears properly will make acceleration that much easier, and it also puts far less stress on your legs.
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Step 3
Maintain good posture. Mountain biking relies a lot on your leg muscles, and your upper body a lot of the times proves counterproductive. If you sit up straight on the seat, you're going to create a lot of wind resistance which will make it that much harder to accelerate. When you're looking to gain speed, lean forward over your handle bars. That way the wind will flow over your body and not slow you down. However, when you're not looking to accelerate, save your back and relax.
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Step 4
Wear tight clothing. Once again, clothing that is too loose will always create wind resistance, and it also puts you at risk for getting snagged on branches or other natural obstacles. Especially if you're racing, wear shirts and shorts that cling tightly to your body. Not only will you be able to accelerate better, you'll feel better as well. Specialized clothing keeps you cool, and it even provides support for your muscles.
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Step 5
Bike downhill. Just like pedaling, the sport of mountain biking has acceleration built right into it. When you're riding downhill, you will automatically gain speed. In fact, sometimes you'll gain too much speed and you'll have to brake. However, just like with pedaling, there is strategy built into using the hills to your advantage. When you know a downhill area is coming, push yourself a little harder--you can rest while gravity does all the accelerating.
