How to Ride Steep MTB Features | Mountain Bike Stability Tips from Ben Lomond Trails

Written By Piyush Chavan

Riding steep mountain biking features isn’t about just sending it — it’s about smart body positioning, timing, and control. If you are a strong intermediate or advanced rider looking to improve, this guide breaks down the technique used by our instructors to improve stability on steeper terrain.

Step-by-Step MTB Stability Guide for Steep Trails

1. Start Tall and Relaxed

  • Begin in a tall, centered riding position with relaxed limbs. A slight forward bow is always appreciated.

  • A taller stance is generally stronger and offers better balance and trail visibility. This would your default stance before the terrain steepens.

Approaching the steep section in a Tall and & Strong position

2. Drop Low as the Gradient Steepens

  • As you hit the change in gradient - the terrain getting steeper, transition into a lower, maneuverable position.

  • This helps:

    • Improve control

    • Increase traction

    • Handle unexpected rocks or roots

  • Think of it as your “rollercoaster moment” — the feeling of compressing into the trail.

MTB ready or attack position

Getting lower and closer to the bike as the Gradient gets steeper.

3. Stay Low Through the Steep Section

  • Hold your low position until the slope levels out.

  • This prevents premature leaning back or unweighting the front wheel emphasizing traction and control while you’re on the steep gradient.

MTB body position on steeps

4. Return to Tall on the Exit

  • As you reach the Gradient levels out, press through your arms and legs to return back to your taller, stronger default position.

  • Benefits include:

    • Resetting your balance

    • Preparing for upcoming features

    • Improving traction and visibility

Returning back to Tall and Strong as the gradient flattens out.

MTB Drill: The “Cone Crush” Task

This simple but powerful coaching drill reinforces timing and posture on steep terrain.

🔧 How to Set It Up:

  • Place a cone where the trail flattens out (end of the steep section).

🎯 Your Goal:

  • Crush the cone with your front wheel as you return to tall.

  • Why? It forces you to stay low for longer, reinforcing proper timing and stability. This way your drive to the taller and stronger position is perfectly timed.

🛑 What do we do with the brakes:

  • Steady and consistent use of both the brakes, the pressure you use on brakes is relative. Although at no instance you should be skidding.

  • As you do this movement many times, you will come to a natural understanding as to how braking pressure works when you approach the steep gradient, are on the steep gradient and once you exit. (The braking technique is worthy of another blog post/video - so we’ll round back to that very soon.

📌 Location Feature: Ben Lomond Trails, Queenstown

These coaching techniques were demonstrated at Ben Lomond Trails, one of Queenstown's most iconic riding spots. The terrain is perfect for MTB riders to develop body awareness and terrain reading skills.

🙋‍♂️ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How do I keep control on steep MTB trails?

Stay low and centered over the bike, especially during steep transitions. Don’t lean back too far — instead, focus on maneuverability and traction.

What is the best body position for steep descents?

Start tall, drop low as the trail steepens, and return to tall and strong when it flattens. This allows for the most responsive and balanced riding posture.

How can I practice MTB timing for steep sections?

Use the “cone crush” drill — place a cone at the end of a steep section and aim to crush it by returning tall at the right moment.

🚵 Ready to Ride Steep with Confidence?

Want personalized coaching in Queenstown? Join a private lesson or group skills clinic with our certified instructors. Whether you're riding Ben Lomond, Coronet Peak, or Cardrona, we’ll help you ride smoother, safer, and stronger.

👉 Book a lesson now


📧 Have questions? Contact us at management@treadmark.co.nz

 

 
Piyush Chavan