Conquer The Uphill Hop

Conquer big trail obstacles with this uphill hop.

You're cranking up a middle-ring singletrack, picking the best line and keeping a steady cadence, when you spy the momentum smasher of all momentum smashers: a 30cm-high log, clear across the trail. No worries. A slick move called the uphill log hop will keep you rolling.

As you approach, stay seated and in the same gear. Accelerate three metres before the log and time your pedal stroke so your strongest leg will be on the downstroke when you reach the log. When you're about 20cm from the log, pull a wheelie just high enough to skim the top. As your front wheel touches the log, spring forward with a powerful pedal kick and a big lunge.

The combination of these moves drives the bike forward, up and over the log, so your chainring won't even bite wood. Another plus: your rear wheel will land on the uphill side of the log and roll off to give you extra momentum to keep climbing.

EYES: Focus about one or two wheel-lengths in front of the log.

LEGS: Forcefully push down with your strong leg when the pedal is at two o'clock.

TORSO: Crouch down with your back almost parallel to the top tube as you push down on the pedal, then spring up with your torso.

ARMS: As you're crouching, keep your arms bent and elbows high. When you spring up, straighten your arms.

FEET: Point down slightly throughout the move.

WRISTS: Flex them down when in the crouch position and forward as you spring up.

KNEES: Just before you spring, bring your knees almost into your chest.