Mounting / Dismounting a Mountain Bike

Of the things that you also need to control besides the Very Basics of Mountain Biking is Mounting and Dismounting your Mountain Bike. Yes, I know it sounds just too easy. Who does not know how to Mount or Dismount a Bike? I must admit - this is kind of true. But are you certain of yourself that you are Mounting and Dismounting your Mountain Bike efficiently, safely, quickly and in the best possible way?

That is why we have created this section.

Mounting your Mountain Bike

1. Check that the size of the gear is not too large nor too low. In either case it means that you cannot get any hold of the surface and that you in most cases cannot mount your bike. If you need to change the gear, then lift up the back wheel and shift gear while you turn the pedals with one foot.
2. Hold handlebar with both of your hands.
3. One pedal should be in the 2 o'clock position.
4. Lift your right leg over the back of the saddle and place your right foot onto the pedal. Flick the pedal round to engage the toe-clip or cleat mechanism.
5. Bring the right pedal up to the two o'clock position. Push down with your right foot to begin pedalling.
6. Push off with your left foot.
7. Bring your backside onto the saddle.
8. As the left pedal comes round the 'top dead centre' place your left foot on the pedal and continue pedalling.

Dismounting

1. Decrease your biking speed by beginning to brake if you want to dismount your bike. Use both brakes evenly, unless it is downhill, in which case use the front brake very lightly. If you are going uphill, you do not need to do anything as velocity will be decreased automatically if you stop pedalling.

Right-sided dismount
2. If you have come to a standstill, place your left foot on the floor.


3. Lean the bike slightly to the left side and move off the saddle to place your left foot flat on the ground and then take your right foot of the pedal and bring your right leg round and over the back of the saddle so that you are standing with the bike on your right.
   

Left-sided dismount
4. The same as point 2 and 3 but with the other foot

In most cases you might prefer either the left- or the right-sided dismount, but it is advised that you should also feel comfortable with the other side dismount. The reason for this is that is could come in handy, if your preferred side is impractical due to barriers.

See related products in our Mountain Biking Shop:

Mountain Bikes Hot Picks

Bikes Hot Picks

Mountain Biking Shoes Hot Picks