8 Mountain Biking Tips for Your Ha Giang Adventure

8 Mountain Biking Tips for Your Ha Giang Adventure

Mountain biking requires a different set of skills compared to road biking. The following tips will help you develop better climbing techniques and overall trail-riding ability. Riding in the mountains brings the thrill of adventure and offers spectacular views that stretch far downhill.

Before we dive into the techniques, remember: when riding non-technical terrain, maintain a neutral position on the bike. This keeps you efficient and comfortable while allowing a quick transition into a more aggressive stance when needed.

A neutral position includes:

• Pedals kept level
• A slight bend in your knees and elbows
• Only your index finger on each brake lever (rim brakes may require two fingers)
• Your eyes are focused 15–20 feet ahead, scanning where you want to go

Body position

Mountain biking trails often include sand, mud, rocks, and roots. These varying conditions are part of the fun—but also a challenge for beginners. Knowing how to position your body correctly can help you tackle even the toughest terrain.

There are two key body positions: neutral and ready.

Neutral position

Use the neutral position on smooth, non-technical sections of the trail. It allows you to roll along efficiently and comfortably.

Key features of the neutral position:

• The pedals are level
• Slight bend in elbows and knees
• Index fingers on brake levers at all times
• Eyes looking 15–20 feet ahead

Ready position

Use the ready (or “attack”) position on steep or technical sections. This position helps you stay balanced and prepared for rough terrain.

Key features of the ready position:

• The pedals are level
• Deep bend in elbows and knees (around 90 degrees)
• Hips pushed back over the saddle
• Flat back, almost parallel to the ground
• Index fingers on brake levers
• Eyes scanning 15–20 feet ahead

Adjust your seat position

Your saddle height plays a big role in climbing and descending.

Climbing:
Adjust your seat so your leg reaches about 80–90% of full extension at the bottom of each pedal stroke. This helps you pedal more efficiently and use your leg muscles effectively.

Descending:
Lower your saddle by 2–3 inches compared to your climbing height. A lower seat drops your center of gravity, improving control and confidence on steep descents. Adjust as needed to find the position that feels best.

Pick a line

A common mistake beginners make is focusing on what to avoid instead of where to go. Your bike tends to follow your eyes, so look at your path, not the obstacles.

How to pick a line:

• Constantly scan 15–20 feet ahead
• Look for hazards like rocks, roots, or drops
• Let your eyes move between your front tire and the trail ahead
• Plan your moves so you can adjust your balance smoothly

Braking

Braking is more than just pulling a lever. Knowing how and when to brake makes riding safer and smoother.

How to brake

• Use both brakes evenly for control
• Avoid sudden braking that could cause skidding
• Shift your hips back and drop your heels while braking
• Keep your elbows and knees slightly bent for balance

For disc brakes: Use one finger (index) on the brake lever and the rest of your fingers to grip the handlebar.
For rim brakes: Use two fingers for better leverage and control.

When to brake

• Brake before reaching an obstacle, not during
• Maintain controlled momentum through technical sections
• Avoid braking while turning or on loose surfaces to reduce slipping

Practice shifting

Knowing how to shift properly extends your bike’s lifespan and helps you maintain speed and control.

• Shift frequently: Build muscle memory to shift intuitively
• Shift early: Don’t wait until you’re on a hill—shift before you start climbing
• Avoid cross-chaining: This happens when the chain is on opposite extremes of the front and rear gears. It causes unnecessary wear and poor shifting
• Never shift while stopped: Always keep pedaling slightly during a shift to avoid damaging the chain

Falling off your bike

Falls are part of mountain biking—don’t be discouraged.

• Try not to extend your arms to catch yourself; this can lead to injury
• Wear protective gear, especially gloves and a helmet
• Always check your bike after a fall—inspect the brakes, gears, and frame
• Carry a multi-tool and a small first-aid kit for quick fixes

Hike with your bike

Sometimes, the trail is too steep, rocky, or technical to ride. That’s okay.

• Get off and walk your bike when needed
• Lifting or carrying your bike over tough obstacles is perfectly normal
• Don’t push yourself into dangerous sections—hiking is often the smart choice

Riding on trails

Mountain biking often takes place on shared-use trails. Be respectful and ride responsibly.

Trail etiquette tips:

• Slow down when approaching pedestrians
• Give a friendly greeting or verbal warning when passing
• Only ride on designated trails
• Stay in control of your bike at all times

READ MORE:

– 64-year-old rides from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh city to see Independence Palace

– World Bicycle Day – June 3: Ride for Ourselves and for the Earth

– Northern Vietnam Tours.