Originally Posted by
Barrettscv
If the steep section is firm with good traction, you should be OK using the same climbing skills you use on pavement. Once the surface is loose, you will need to stay seated to keep the rear tire in contact with the road or trail. This is hard to do with a standard crank and an 11-25 cassette if you are used to standing while you climb.
Yes...and be careful with the standing climbing when traction is sketchy.
If you spin the back tire too much while standing, the bike will usually come to a dead stop and you'll fall over pretty much instantly. If you feel the rear start to break loose while standing, shift your weight back to put some weight on the tire. If you're trying anything steep while seated (which may be impossible given typical road bike gearing), keep weight on the front wheel or you'll have a hard time keeping it on the ground.
Climbing a steep dirt grade is quite different than doing it on the road IMO. On the road, the traction is unlimited in comparison.
Bob