How to Drift a Berm MTB: The Ultimate Guide for Mountain Bikers

Drifting a berm on your mountain bike is a thrilling and exhilarating experience. It’s a maneuver that requires a combination of skill, control, and confidence. Learning how to drift a berm MTB can elevate your riding experience, allowing you to carve through corners with style and precision. This blog post will guide you through the steps and techniques necessary to master this exciting skill.

Understanding the Basics

Before diving into the specifics of drifting, it’s crucial to understand the fundamentals:

• Berm Design: Berms are banked corners designed to help riders maintain momentum and speed through turns. The angle and shape of the berm influence the type of drift you can achieve.
• Body Position: Proper body positioning is essential for stability and control. Keep your weight centered, with your hips slightly lower than your shoulders.
• Bike Setup: Ensure your bike is properly adjusted for your height and riding style. Adjust the seat height, handlebar position, and suspension settings to suit your preferences.

Choosing the Right Berm

Not all berms are created equal. Selecting the appropriate berm is crucial for a successful drift:

• Beginner-Friendly Berms: Look for wide, shallow berms with gentle slopes. These allow for a gradual introduction to the technique.
• Intermediate Berms: Once you gain confidence, try steeper and tighter berms. These offer a more challenging and rewarding experience.
• Advanced Berms: For experienced riders, seek out high-speed berms with dramatic angles. These require precise control and advanced skills.

The Art of Weight Shifting

Weight shifting is the key to initiating and controlling a drift. Practice these techniques:

• Leaning In: As you approach the berm, lean your body weight into the turn, pushing your hips towards the inside of the corner.
• Counterbalancing: As you lean in, counterbalance with your upper body, keeping your shoulders relatively upright. This prevents you from oversteering.
• Weight Transfer: Shift your weight back towards the rear wheel as you drift. This helps maintain traction and prevents a loss of control.

Steering Techniques

Steering plays a critical role in executing a smooth drift:

• Steering with Your Hips: Use your hips to guide the bike into the turn. This helps maintain stability and control.
• Steering with the Handlebar: Use subtle handlebar movements to fine-tune your drift and adjust your line.
• Counter-steering: Counter-steering is a crucial technique for maintaining balance and preventing the bike from falling into the berm. This involves turning the handlebars in the opposite direction of the turn.

Mastering the Drift

Once you understand the basics of weight shifting and steering, you can start practicing the drift itself:

• Initiating the Drift: As you approach the berm, lean into the turn and shift your weight towards the rear wheel. Gently steer the bike into the berm, allowing the tires to break traction.
• Maintaining Control: Keep your body weight centered and use your hips and handlebars to fine-tune the drift. Adjust your speed and steering to maintain a smooth, controlled slide.
• Exiting the Drift: As you approach the exit of the berm, gradually steer the bike back upright and apply the brakes lightly to slow down.

Tips for Success

• Practice Makes Perfect: The best way to master drifting is to practice regularly. Start on beginner-friendly berms and gradually work your way up to more challenging ones.
• Focus on Control: Drifting is all about control. Don’t rush the process; take your time and focus on maintaining stability.
• Don’t Be Afraid to Fall: Falling is part of the learning process. Get back on your bike and keep practicing.
• Have Fun: Drifting should be an enjoyable experience. Relax, enjoy the ride, and embrace the challenge.

Riding with Confidence: The Drifting Mindset

Developing a confident riding mindset is crucial for mastering drifting. These techniques can help:

• Visualize Success: Before attempting a drift, visualize yourself executing it smoothly and confidently.
• Positive Self-Talk: Encourage yourself with positive affirmations. Tell yourself, “I can do this,” and “I’m in control.”
• Focus on the Present: Avoid dwelling on past mistakes or worrying about future outcomes. Stay present in the moment and focus on the task at hand.

Beyond the Basics: Advanced Drifting Techniques

Once you’ve mastered the basic drift, you can explore more advanced techniques:

• Power Slides: Power slides involve initiating a drift at higher speeds and maintaining control through the corner.
• Drifting in the Air: Advanced riders can even perform drifts while airborne, adding a whole new dimension to the experience.
• Drifting with Style: As you become more proficient, experiment with different drifting styles, such as the “Euro Drift” or the “Scandinavian Flick.”

The Final Ride: Embracing the Drifting Experience

Drifting a berm MTB is not just a skill; it’s a journey of self-discovery and a testament to your riding abilities. Embrace the challenge, embrace the thrill, and enjoy the ride.

What You Need to Learn

Q: What gear is necessary for drifting a berm MTB?

A: While you can drift on any mountain bike, a bike with wider tires and a more aggressive tread pattern will provide better grip and control. Consider using a helmet, gloves, and protective gear for added safety.

Q: Is drifting dangerous?

A: Drifting can be dangerous if not performed correctly. Start with beginner-friendly berms and gradually work your way up to more challenging ones. Always prioritize safety and wear appropriate protective gear.

Q: How can I improve my drifting skills?

A: Practice, practice, practice. The more you drift, the more comfortable and confident you will become. Also, pay attention to your body position, weight shifting, and steering techniques.

Q: What are some tips for staying safe while drifting?

A: Choose appropriate berms for your skill level, wear protective gear, practice good judgment, and always be aware of your surroundings.