As a ride review, I'll say this:

This month's ride was even more of a breakthrough learning-wise for me. Yesterday's topic was a simple, general overview of braking and shifting, when to do it and why. Since the objective is to be as smooth as possible, which helps instill confidence, getting your braking and shifting done before the turn, or more specifically before the actual steering input (turn-in point), rewards you with a stable bike that feels good and planted in the turn.

As usual, this was most helpful going into downhill turns, which is the bane of most newbie riders. As I slowed down, braking and downshifting, before the turn, I found more time to set-up for the turn, pick my turn-in point, and plan my line through the turn. I was rewarded with the warm, confident feeling that, as I gently rolled on the gas, I was going to make it through the turn safely and I was already looking forward to the next turn. Which is also great because I now had time to set-up for the next turn. I did not feel rushed, or overwhelmed ("in over my head").

After the series of turns that make up Jamison Creek, I found myself going faster than I normally feel comfortable with, and felt totally in control and confident.

I, for one, call that a successful lesson learned.

Thanks, Doc!

 

<--- misses out on doc wong rides due to living in so.cal

Quote from: scratch on December 08, 2008, 01:17:01 PM
As a ride review, I'll say this:

This month's ride was even more of a breakthrough learning-wise for me. Yesterday's topic was a simple, general overview of braking and shifting, when to do it and why. Since the objective is to be as smooth as possible, which helps instill confidence, getting your braking and shifting done before the turn, or more specifically before the actual steering input (turn-in point), rewards you with a stable bike that feels good and planted in the turn.

As usual, this was most helpful going into downhill turns, which is the bane of most newbie riders. As I slowed down, braking and downshifting, before the turn, I found more time to set-up for the turn, pick my turn-in point, and plan my line through the turn. I was rewarded with the warm, confident feeling that, as I gently rolled on the gas, I was going to make it through the turn safely and I was already looking forward to the next turn. Which is also great because I now had time to set-up for the next turn. I did not feel rushed, or overwhelmed ("in over my head").

After the series of turns that make up Jamison Creek, I found myself going faster than I normally feel comfortable with, and felt totally in control and confident.

I, for one, call that a successful lesson learned.

Thanks, Doc!

i didn't think it was a big deal until i encountered my first downhill, off camber, decreasing radius, stop-sign at the bottom, turn. then i understood exactly what you're talking about.

wayyyy cool ain't it ?

Way

Don't feel bad, Manjul, we have guys who come from Idaho to attend these free clinics.