The manual is a riding manoeuvre with style and brains: In contrast to the wheelie, the front wheel is lifted into the air simply by shifting your weight - without pedalling at all. Originally from the BMX scene, the manual has long since found its place in mountain biking. Whether on the trail, in the park or simply for playing with the bike - those who master the manual are more stylish, safer and more controlled on the road.
5 reasons for the manual
1. safety first
A manual always makes sense - especially from a rational point of view if the ground is unsafe, for example in the case of a pile of leaves. You never know what's hiding underneath. In the worst case scenario, the front wheel gets stuck - and the bike is bound to go over the handlebars. Therefore: pull up the front!
2. sensitivity
Rude bikers in particular are challenged with the manual - because this is where sensitivity counts. If you pull too hard on the brake lever, the front wheel will plummet. The trick is to let it slide in a controlled manner. But don't worry: this can be practised risk-free. See further down in the article.
3. balance is king
The manual makes you a better mountain biker - because the manoeuvre trains your balance. And you benefit from this not only when surfing the rear wheel, but everywhere on the trail: for example in exposed terrain, on skinnies, when climbing bikes or on steep, sketchy descents.
4. sweet spot surfing
The manual position is somewhere between frustration and a flesh wound: either the front wheel flicks forwards - or worse still - the rear tips backwards. Those who master the manual avoid both and glide in the sweet spot - and that feels magical. Just like surfing.
5. dry feet
If you pull the bike onto the rear wheel in front of a puddle or stream, you will not only get over it more safely, but also stay dry. The raised front keeps your feet above the water - and instead of splashing your back, the rear wheel swirls the water into the void.
Three steps to success
These three skills are essential for both the manual and the wheelie.
1. with sensitivity, please
Apply the front brake in such a controlled manner that you can run alongside the bike and the rear wheel is always levelled during the movement. The smoother, the more controlled your braking.
2 Where is the "sweet spot?"
Sit on the bike, feet on the pedals. Pull the brake (!). Your buddy grabs the fork and tilts the bike to the tipping point (wheelie exercise). Now stretch your legs and get out of the saddle for the manual version.
3. the arms are always long!
The hips are the bulwark of balance in the manual. They move forwards or backwards depending on the situation. You can also move your shoulders or fold out your knees for lateral balance. Try this dry exercise on the wall. Once again: the arms are always long. Very important! Editor Max Fuchs says: "As soon as I realised that I should never bend my arms, it clicked for me".
Other articles that might interest you
Reading tip: More flow on the trail
However, the book "More Flow on the Trail" offers a comprehensive overview of the most important mountain bike techniques. The specialist knowledge and tips come from professionals who explain manoeuvres such as drifting into bends, jumping powerfully over kickers or swinging the rear wheel around tight bends. Experts such as Fabien Barel, Cam Zink, Bobby Root, Wyn Masters, Stefan Herrmann and many more are included. The book also contains QR codes for further video material. Price: 29,90 Euro >> available here.
Laurin Lehner
Editor
