Braking and shifting are the two most important skills to learn when it comes to mountain biking. If you don't brake properly or use your gears efficiently you will find that you are working a lot harder than you need to be.

Basic Handlebar Setup -

The left hand is used to control the front derailleur and the front brake. The right hand is used to control the rear derailleur and the rear brake.

Braking -

The brakes are one of the most powerful components on your bike. Follow the tips below to learn the correct techniques which will later be used in the descending section.

Front Brake -

When applied alone, the front brake may cause you to be thrown over your handlebars. It can be used though in conjunction with your back break to slow you down while descending.

The Best Way to Brake -

Pull the breaks on and off (a.k.a. "feathering) to avoid skidding or decreasing speed too quickly. The palm of your hand should never leave your handlebars while braking. You will want to adjust the brake levers if they are not easy to reach with just your fingers.

Shifting Gears -

It doesn't really matter which gear you are in as long as it feels comfortable. You should NEVER look down to see which gear you are in though. Also, try to anticipate which gear will be needed so that you can shift in time.

Emergency Braking -

If you are speeding down a hill and see a huge log sitting right in the trail then you will need to do an emergency stop.

1. Get as far back on the saddle as possible so that your stomach is almost over the saddle. Start to smoothly apply the front brake-without jamming it on-to slow your bike down. Chances are you won't go over the handlebars since your weight is over your back wheel.
2. Keep the front wheel lined up with the bike frame to avoid skidding. You may feel the back wheel lift off of the ground so put your weight over the back wheel and it will go down.
3. You should be able to come to a safe stop before hitting the obstacle. Remember: Conditions change daily and it's always harder to brake on wet trails. It's best to go more cautiously on a new trail, just in case.