How to Ride a Bike Downhill

This may seem to be an unnecessary topic, since one doesn't even have to pedal when descending a hill. However, some people are afraid of high speeds on a bike, and others don't know how to descend a winding road quickly and safely.

First, some people believe that bicycles are not safe at high speeds. There are some bikes which are not. If the brakes work poorly, if the spokes are loose, if the hubs lack grease, or if the frame or fork are out of alignment, the bike should not be used at high speeds. In fact, it shouldn't be ridden at all until repaired.

However, a bicycle that has good brakes and wheels and is properly aligned can easily travel at 50 mph or even faster without any problem.

There's even one safety advantage to traveling fast on a bike. As the speed of the bike gets faster, the gyroscopic stability of the wheels gets greater, thus making the bike harder to upset.

There are real dangers involved in traveling at high speeds. One is that it takes much longer to brake to a stop, another is the danger from holes or gravel, another is the danger from motor vehicles, and the final problem is that of making tight curves, especially if the road is wet.

First, it's important to recognize that braking distances increase rapidly with speed (especially when the rims are wet!). The brakes on a bike are also not as good as those on a car, so it's important not to get too close behind cars when descending. Watch ahead and anticipate dangers.

Second, when traveling downhill at high speed, hitting a hole, loose sand and gravel, a slick section of road, or a patch of ice can be very dangerous. One should use caution except on the best roads, and even on the best road, use caution when going around bends. Always be prepared to stop. On a day with rain or snow, keep speed down on the bends.

Third, one must recognize a greater danger from motor vehicles when moving faster. Although many people cite the slow speed of a bicycle as a reason why bikes shouldn't be on the roads, the truth is that riding a motorcycle, which moves with the traffic, is more dangerous. When descending at high speeds, keep your distance from motor vehicles

In going around a tight curve, your bike will want to lean to the inside, which is just what you want it to do. Apply just a little pressure on the brakes for two reasons: 1) the very mild braking will give you better traction, like gearing down a motor vehicle, and 2) you will be able to brake hard more quickly, should the need arise.

Because the bike is going downhill and thus weight is shifted forward, the front brake works much more efficiently than the rear. One partial solution is to modify your sitting position, pushing your butt back further on the seat. It's also good to improve the braking position of the hands, if you have drop bars, as the usual positions do not give adequate leverage.

It's important, when unfamiliar with a steep downhill, to travel somewhat cautiously and to hold attempts at speed records for when one is thoroughly familiar with the descent. As downhill descents are a learning experience, only gradually increase your downhill speed as you become more competent.