Forget wheelies in front of the local ice cream shop! To really stand out from the crowd this summer you’ve got to up your game and undertake some serious acrobatic feats on two wheels. Kitted out with ultra-modern technology (thanks pedal assist), let jaws gape and grannies gasp as you ride effortlessly up steps. Hurling down them might be considered a bit vulgar these day (potentially resulting in an ASBO), but riding up them takes it to the other end of the scale with the wow effect. Take note of the following!

Warning: Before attempting a step ascent, make sure your tire pressure is sufficient. We’ve listed all you need to know at the end of this article.

Ride moderately as you make the approach to the steps, take your weight off the front wheel and gently ease up the front so that it basically glides over the first step rather than ramming into it – just do what you’d normally do for a regular pavement curb. If your approach is too fast then not only is your bike is likely to bear the brunt of your over-eagerness, but there’s the risk that you won’t be able to maintain the same pace across the whole set of steps. A step ascent doesn’t rely on momentum or sheer force – it just requires you to ride the entire way up the steps. Depending on the difficulty of the steps, choose between turbo or sport mode (trust us, you’ll need it).

Once the front wheel has mounted the first step, you need to make sure your pace remains constant with continual pedaling. Shift your weight further forward to prevent the front wheel from involuntarily lifting. The key to success is nailing enough weight at the rear for traction and enough at the front to keep it planted. We won’t lie and say it’s easy to find the sweet spot: this varies depending on the sort of steps you’re riding. Flat, short sets of steps are much easier to ride than larger ones.

These are particularly tricky as there’s a corner to deal with as well. You can see from the slow-mo how the rider follows the curve of the steps, ensuring that the bike always meets the step edge in a straight line.

Riding up steps is definitely easier with plus-size tires. Just keep the front wheel focused – trying to go diagonally will probably result in putting your foot down. Curbs are always best taken straight on.

Tips

  • Always wear a helmet and gloves (even Superman wouldn’t appreciate crashing out on steps)!
  • The less technically versed you are (and the ‘stiffer’ you ride up the steps), the bigger risk for your bike: the wheels and spokes are likely to come off worst if the air pressure is too low or if you just ungraciously pummel into the steps.
  • Start small, aim big. Before you head to your town’s most exhausting and exhilarating set of steps, pick a small section, or some that are just gently graded. This should minimize risk of injury.

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Words: Robin Schmitt Photos: Noah Haxel

About the author

Robin Schmitt

Robin is one of the two founders of 41 Publishing, a visionary and go-getter. While he now enjoys every second on the bike – whenever his busy schedule allows – he used to race against the clock at enduro events and a few Downhill World Cups. Besides that, Robin practises kung fu and Zen meditation, plays the cello or with his dog (which actually belongs to his girlfriend), travels abroad and still reviews numerous bikes himself. Progressive ideas, new projects and major challenges – Robin loves exploring undiscovered potential and getting to the bottom of new trends.