Mountain Biking - Steering

I'm not completely sure its my technique or the bikes steering specs but thought the board might help.

I was recently in Flagstaff, AZ having fun on some of their bike trails. Forst problem was lack of traction on the sand/rocks combo. A lower tire pressure solved that. Next as I blasted around the bike doesnt really want to go where I point it. I'll describe it as "slow steering" from motorcycle experience. Anything I can do to make it better? Or would another brand do what I want?

Bike is a 29er Diamondback Overdrive. I have enjoyed riding it so far.

-SP

the bike doesnt really want to go where I point it. I'll describe it as "slow steering" from motorcycle experience. Anything I can do to make it better?

Not much, I would imagine. Handling is largely determined by frame geometry. A shorter travel fork would probably help.



Bike is a 29er Diamondback Overdrive.


Ah, there you go. 29'ers are known for their slow handling.

I have experienced handling problems with lower tire pressure. They tires grip better, but the handling seems looser and sloppy.

I have only ridden 26ers, but can imagine that the sloppiness I have experienced would be exaggerated with 29's. The handling issue seems to work itself out with experience. As a rider I adjust to my bikes issues.

As a rider I adjust to my bikes issues.

Haha. Thats typically the way I think. But I figured since it was a better quality bike than I 'm used to maybe there was something I was missing.

BTW- It handled about the same with high and lower pressures in the tires. Traction was noticeably different ion the sandy terrain.

-SP

Move out of AZ and your fixed.

Steering is way over rated.