newbie looking for help
 

I am completely new and I am in way over my head. Yesterday was my first time on a trail and it was intimidating and fun as heck at the same time. The trail was listed as intermediate to advanced but five of us newbies headed out there anyway. It has quite a few technical trail features. Here is my problem, on the steep decents (with lots of tree roots) I felt like I was going to pitch over the handlebars. I lowered my seat so I could get farther back on the bike and this helped some. I still nerver was able to relax and feel comfortable. Is this something that I will get comfortable with in time? I have read some of the other threads here and they are very helpful. Are there some practice tips you experienced riders can share with me to practice to speed up the learning curve? Thanks a million.

Hi Five...lol

Firstly dont get too intimidated, and ensure you enjoy yourself.
Put your saddle back to the normal height, (where your leg is slightly bent when peddle is at bottom of stroke.)

Stability on decending doesn,t come from being far back but from being as far back as possible, and also as low as possible. Basicly if the hill is extremely steep your rear should nearly be on your rear tire.

If you still feel slightly front heavy, lay off the front brake and feather the rear brake for further stability.

As for roots, I find paractice makes perfect, and let the bike find a route, dont over adjust your steering an loosen up on the bars!!!

Im sure you'll get plenty of great tips on this site, as there is alot of helpful, expierianced riders.

Happy Riding!!!

I could hear Borat when I read Hi-Five! lol

Thanks for the tips.