How To Shift Gears Better On Any Mountain Bike | Pro MTB Tips!

Hello everyone! Thank you for joining me for another banger. Today, we’re diving into something the pros do effortlessly—changing gears. It might seem simple, but there are tips and tricks that pros use to make their gear shifts efficient and smooth. Here are some top tips that will help you shift gears like a pro.

Always Use Lube

It’s a life lesson: always use lube! Without it, you’re going to learn the hard way, especially when it comes to your drivetrain. If you don’t keep that drivetrain running smoothly, you’ll face a lot of issues.

• Maintenance Tips:
  • Ensure the chain is in optimal condition.
  • Regularly check chainrings and cassettes for wear and tear.
  • Look out for “shark teeth” edges—pointed teeth indicate it’s time for replacement.

Sharp or rounded edges can cause gears to skip under pressure, so make sure everything stays in good shape.

Check for Wear and Tear

Be vigilant about your chain’s condition. Look for any side-to-side movement, rust, or damage in the links. If these are present, it’s time for a replacement. Specific chain checkers can be used to measure wear by pushing a pin to the side and gauging how much play there is.

Benefits of Using the Right Lube

• A well-lubed chain shifts smoothly and lasts longer.
• Using the correct lube for the season prevents drag, saving you energy and power.
• For optimal performance:
  • Dry lubes in summer
  • Wet lubes in winter

This keeps your chain running smoothly, reducing wear and maintaining efficiency.

Why One-By Drivetrains Are Popular

Nowadays, one-by drivetrains (1x) have become the standard in most race disciplines, from cross-country to downhill.

• Benefits of One-By Drivetrains:
  • Less weight: No front derailleur means a lighter setup.
  • Lower maintenance: Fewer moving parts reduce maintenance needs.
  • Wide range: With wide-ratio cassettes, you get the full range of gears without the need for a front derailleur.

Pros often switch chainring sizes depending on the trail conditions. On flatter, faster trails, a slightly larger chainring helps prevent spinning out.

How to Change Gear Smoothly Under Pressure

Changing gears smoothly, especially under pressure, can prevent damage to your drivetrain. Here’s how:

• Back Off the Pressure: When pedaling uphill, avoid putting excessive pressure on the pedals while shifting. Instead, pedal a bit softer to let the gears shift smoothly.
• Avoid Forced Shifts: Forcing a shift under heavy load can damage parts of the drivetrain, like the cassette, derailleur, chain, and chainring. Backing off slightly helps the shift happen smoothly and reduces wear.

Forward Thinking: Quick and Efficient Gear Changes

For quick changes, pros think ahead. They plan and react to trail conditions, often in a split second. Here’s what to focus on:

• Assess the Trail: Pros look ahead to anticipate climbs, terrain changes, or obstacles.
• Change Early: Shifting to the right gear before a challenging section allows you to tackle it smoothly.
• Adjust for Conditions: In loose, wet conditions, gear down to prevent wheel spin, or choose a slightly harder gear to push through mud.

Handling Multiple Gear Changes

Shifting multiple gears quickly is a more advanced skill, especially useful in scenarios like cresting a steep climb or hitting a flat section after a descent.

• Quick Shifts on Climbs: If you’re in a low gear at the top of a climb and then face a flat or downhill section, shift down through multiple gears to maintain cadence.
• Be Careful When Upshifting Under Load: When going from a high-speed descent to a steep climb, shifting multiple gears at once can strain the derailleur. Pros do this gently to avoid damage.

Practical Demonstration of Gear Shifting

To understand what it means to be in the right gear at the right time, let’s look at a typical climb scenario:

• Choose a Firmer Gear for Loose Terrain: On rocky or loose terrain, avoid too low of a gear to prevent wheel spin.
• Shift Gears Smoothly on Climbs: Back off slightly as you shift, maintaining a smooth cadence to get the most out of your drivetrain without excessive wear.

Pros also know when to shift several gears at once, especially on a varied trail. Practice and intuition help make these transitions smoother over time.

Frequently Asked Question

What’s the best lube to use for my mountain bike chain?

Use dry lube for summer conditions and wet lube for winter or muddy conditions. This reduces drag and wear, keeping your chain in optimal shape.

How do I know when my chain needs replacing?

Look for rust, side-to-side play, or any visible damage. A chain checker tool can measure wear, helping you decide when it’s time for a new chain.

Why do pros prefer one-by drivetrains?

One-by drivetrains reduce weight, simplify maintenance, and still provide a wide range of gears with a wide-ratio cassette.

How can I avoid damaging my drivetrain while shifting?

Avoid shifting under heavy pedal pressure. Instead, ease up slightly to make the shift smoother and prevent strain on your components.

Why do I need to change gears before challenging terrain?

Shifting early prepares you for upcoming terrain changes, allowing you to maintain a smooth cadence and avoid sudden gear shifts under load.

If you’d like to learn more pro tips on things you might not have thought of, Stay tuned to Find Best Bike for more pro tips. You will always get new updates and new tips here. Thanks for reading, and happy riding!