Trail & Race Techniques:
MBT Staff

Mud:

   Mud presents a variety of challenges to the mountain biker and his equipment.  The initial challenge comes in the form of the fact that mud is great at concealing solid objects such as roots, rocks, or other trail debris.  It is wise to keep a loose grip in attack stance and keep the front end light so contacting a solid object doesn't spit you over the bars.  Unfortunately, this is not the only concern while passing through a mud section or flooded stretch of trail.  Traction is also a major factor in keeping a firm grip of the terrain, and mud is generally quite slippery.  Pedal strokes should be smooth and constant so as not to break loose the rear tire's line (causing the back end to kick out).  Allow the front wheel to act as a "feeler" as to what type of surface lies beneath the top layers of mud.  Often times riders ahead may leave ruts through the section although they are not always the fastest route across the mud.  Seek drier areas near the sides of the trail so as not to plow through the soupiest regions (usually in the middle) as they offer far more resistance to the front wheel.  Finally mud will collect and cling itself onto your bike, literally undoing all of your weight-shaving efforts.  A smart rider will scrape the mud off at first opportunity during the ride so as not to lug around all of the additional weight.  Lastly, whatever mud remains on the bike will be easier to remove at the end of the ride (while it is still somewhat saturated) over dried caked on dirt the following day