How to correctly do switchback climbs

How to correctly do switchback climbs? You'll find that switchbacks – that is, sections of track which bend sharply back on themselves – need accurate bike control and some forethought to navigate successfully.

On the approach to the switchback, select a gear that is low enough to carry you through it without spinning out. Look ahead for as many avoidable pitfalls as you can, such as rocks, roots and other slippery stuff. Work out how tight the bend is and look for the best exit point. Always maintain your momentum as you approach the corner.

Follow the outside line around the band until you reach the main turning point, where you have to begin going back on yourself. Stay relaxed and loose, as you'll have to be bit of contortionist for the next bit.

Due to the severity of a switchback bend, the key is to run wide into it. By initially following the outside of the band before crossing smoothly toward the apex of the bend – the racing line – you will have a better chance of maintaining balance. Don't try cutting the corner sharply, though.

As you round the band, push you body weight slightly away from the bend, without unbalancing. Use your inside leg to balance yourself if you need to. Stick you knee into the bend to maintain the while leaning your body to opposite way, out of the bend, to act as a counterbalance.

When your bike and body are fully turned into the bend and you're almost at the point of stalling, accelerate out of the bend while straightening your handlebars. This corrects your balance and hopefully avoids a dab or fall.

You'll almost find yourself in a track stand when you're in the sharpest section of the bend. This burst of power should bring you back from this point of no return as long as you're in a low enough gear. Trying to haul a big gear around the turn just won't cut it.