Violet

I am sure 35c tyres and no suspension doesn't help, but...

I find myself often having to bail out of ascents up rough terrain. Specifically, river rocks and pebbles over grassy dirt. The going gets a little rough, I end up standing up to climb to give myself power, but after I while I will stall, the wheel pushing pebbles out of the way and digging into the ground. Happened twice today, luckily noone cool was watching.

Anyway, whats the proper technique for not stalling on terrain like this, and keeping momentum going?

dr1445

it seems some cyclocross tires have a more aggressive tread pattern, but that depends on what you already have for tires. you could also check with your lbs if wider tires will fit your bike. it sounds like you might be crossing into mtb type riding where 26" wheels work great. lots of older mtb on cl for low $.

giantcfr1

I have the same problem on my MTB as I have small block 26 x 2" as tyres. My solution for the time being is to go at speed, and let a fair amount of air out of the tyres. Wider tyres with ample block tread and less air, plus speed is all I can suggest.

blue_cheese

I too find steep climbs hard, on my 8.4DS. I either have to take them at speed or bail and push. I find that if I i don't have speed the front wheel starts to lift off as i pedal and it starts to feel... well... uhm.. dangerous...

grip wise, fine gravel tends to be the biggest problem for the back tire loosing traction, never happened to me on river stones.

eazyasone23

The wider tires will help. Keep your feet moving. Watch your technique. Get into a gear where your feet just spin instead of your hammer through the gear helps getting up the hill and keeping your balance when your climbing and hit an obstacle.