Cycling training: Tips for descents from the mountains and curves

It's mid-August, and summer is a gift to me year after year. Weeks of sunshine, long days with warm light, and clear views of the highest peaks. I make the most of this time: countless kilometers, many of them in the mountains, over passes with evocative names that inspire awe in me every year – yet become a little more familiar with each repetition.

The Alps between Munich and South Tyrol used to be my "front yard" – today it's the Eastern Pyrenees in Spain and southern France. For me, riding in the mountains is a complete experience. It's not just the climbs that burn your legs, but especially the descents, which require full concentration, demand technique, and, once you've mastered them, offer great riding pleasure.

I remember my first years on a road bike well. Going downhill meant hands on the brakes, body tension like gymnastics, and more fear than joy. Then what happens to everyone at some point happens: a crash on a descent – be it due to a moment of inattention, loose gravel, or simply for no apparent reason. This is often a turning point for the mind. The result is mental blocks that turn every corner into a hurdle.

But I can assure you: I love downhill riding these days. However, it took time and practice before I felt confident. So I'd like to share a few ideas on how you can improve your riding technique and, above all, gain more confidence and enjoyment on your bike.

If you just want to take one tip with you: Your gaze guides the bike. Never look directly in front of the front wheel, but always look where you want to go—through the turn, toward the exit. This simple rule makes more difference than any carbon wheel, no matter how stiff.

Proper cornering technique begins with choosing the right line: approach as far outside as possible, swing into the center of the curve, and then roll out again to the outside – "outside – inside – outside," just like in a textbook. Pay attention to the road surface, including loose chippings, bitumen strips, and wet patches. The outside foot should be down and actively weighted, while the inside foot remains on top. The wheel can be leaned slightly into the curve, keeping your upper body steady and your gaze steady.

Braking isn't a panic reaction, but a technique. Many people brake too late, too abruptly, or one-sidedly—especially too hard on the front. This can be dangerous. It's better to decelerate evenly and carefully with both brakes before the corner. Ideally, you shouldn't brake again once you're in the corner. Instead, control your speed, keep your eyes on the road, and stay on the right line.

Another practical tip: When descending, consciously grip the lower handlebars. This gives you more control over your brakes because you can modulate your braking more precisely from this position, and at the same time, you automatically shift your center of gravity slightly lower and further back. This improves stability and ensures safer, smoother line selection, especially in fast corners. Try it – you'll notice the difference!

Modern disc brakes offer excellent modulation, but rim brakes also work reliably – provided they are properly adjusted and the pads are in good condition. Regularly check the pad thickness, lever travel, and centering of the brakes, especially when riding in alpine terrain.

Many road cyclists simply let the bike roll downhill and are surprised when the handling feels spongy or unstable. Better yet, ride actively! Shift your weight slightly backward when braking to avoid locking the front wheel. In fast corners, it helps to push the bike gently into the turn while keeping your upper body as neutral as possible. Keep your arms relaxed, shoulders low, and hands firmly on the handlebars—but not tense.

Personally, I like to ride downhill with my arms slightly bent, letting the bike do the work beneath me, and always keeping my eyes well ahead. This allows me to react quickly when things change – and stay in control.

It doesn't always have to be a technical workout (although I highly recommend it). There are countless good riding technique videos on YouTube—from GCN (Global Cycling Network), Rennrad-News, or independent trainers, for example. Pay attention to clear explanations and visual demonstrations—ten minutes of video often helps more than ten years of gut feeling.

The material can also contribute to safety:

• Wider tires: Instead of 25 or 26 millimeters, go for 28 or even 30 millimeters – especially on poor surfaces or in the mountains. More volume means more comfort, better grip, and greater tolerance for minor riding errors.

• Tubeless riding: lower pressure allows for better ground contact. At the same time, the risk of snakebite from potholes is reduced.

• Carbon rims: only conditionally recommended for downhill riding when rim brakes are used. Braking effectiveness can decrease in hot and wet conditions—disc brakes have an advantage here, too.

• Grippy handlebar tape: a small but effective feature. If you don't slip downhill, you'll ride more relaxed.

• Check saddle position: A saddle that's positioned too far forward or back can negatively affect balance. A proper bike fitting is also worthwhile in this regard.

Riding technique isn't a coincidence—it can be learned, practiced, and improved. Find a quiet mountain pass or a winding stretch with a good surface and practice specifically: cornering line, eye tracking, braking. If you're unsure, take a course—many cycling clubs or riding technique training providers can help with this. And believe me: Confidence in your own technique will massively change your riding experience.

Today, I ride downhill much faster than before—but most importantly, much more safely. And with a big grin on my face.

With that in mind: Stay on the line, keep your eyes on the road ahead – and enjoy the wind when you go downhill.

Her

Ulrich Bartholmoes

PS: What are your experiences? Do you have any tips? Write to me – I look forward to hearing from you.