tips dismount skills for beginner

[noisebeam]

I want to practice dismount without hands-on training. I've read descriptions and seen video (Any good on-line help anyone can point me to?)

I normally use SPD clipless, single release (ankle/lower leg twist). Is this going to be a problem, I understand clipless is fine, but is one type better and/or vastly preferred for CX? (I am familar with the general debate on which clipless is preferred, but not as related to CX)

I'll start practice in the local park on grass, I assume starting with no clip engagement is the way to go. Does that mean I should put some platform pedals on temporarily, or take the cleats off the shoes?

After I can first get the motions down while unclipped, while trying it clipped & during the dismount after getting the one leg over back of bike on the other side, does one then twist the still connected foot to unclip?

Just looking for pointers, advice in general, etc. There is a clinic I may do in 2 months, should I wait or can I hack at it on my own without getting bad habits?

Al

[velocipedio]

start at a relatively slow pace. always dismount to the left. as you approach the point where you want to dismount, unclip your right foot, swing your right leg back and over the saddle, and then bring it forward between your left leg and your bike. put your right hand on the top tube a bit before the seatpost while holding the handlebar with your left hand; put a bit of weight on your right hand while you swing your right foot forward and twist your left foot out of the pedal.

the idea is that you hit the ground leading with your right foot, with your right hand on the top tube so you can hoist the bike over a barrier. it's a lot easier than it looks, and you should be able to do all of the above in a fairly fluid motion with a bit of practice.

uphill and downhill dismounts are variations on this technique.

[arctic hawk]

I seen videos & pics of it done but somehow, when shown live, it all made sence. Go figure.

[jfmckenna]

When I first started I found a nice grassy gental long slope and would get going down it and dismount like velo said above putting the right foot forward and just coast with the bike for awhile. It's pretty easy to get out of spd's provided they are adjusted correctlly so imo I wouldn't worry about getting platform pedals. Some people will actually unclip in the dismount process but I usually wait till the last second and never have a problem. BTW I see a lot of people do well without the right foot forward step too, that seems to be tricky for a lot of folks. Now how about remounting, thats always been the challenge for me ;)

[oldskoolboarder]

Type of pedal made a difference for me. I had Candy SL's but the release was too tight. I moved to Speedplay Frogs (I use X2's on my SS) and the left foot release is SO much easier.

Yeah, the remounts can be tricky. Just keep thinking, INNER THIGH. I already missed a few times... :eek:

[noisebeam]

I use the Shimano SPD single release cleats with M520 pedals (double sided, no platform)

Is this an OK (if not the best) pedal and cleat to use for CX?

Al

[oldskoolboarder]

I use the Shimano SPD single release cleats with M520 pedals (double sided, no platform)

Is this an OK (if not the best) pedal and cleat to use for CX?

Al

There's no right or wrong. Use what feels comfortable.

[noisebeam]

There's no right or wrong. Use what feels comfortable.

Of course, but as a beginner who has never tried this and intends to first time practice this weekend, its nice to know I am not setting myself up for frustration.

Al