Essentials: drops and skinnies

hey Lee, i have two questions. the first is, is there a specific way to ride skinnies? i try and try and i just end up having to hop off the side. so do i need technique or do i just need more practice? the second is about drops. there is this drop that is about 3 feet. i havent really done drops before, and the landing is pretty wide open. there is just some gravel mixed in with the dirt. should i suck it up and take it? any advice?
peace
rory

Drops

Don’t “suck it up and take it.” Unless you think scars are cool.

The key: Keep your front wheel up until your back wheel leaves the edge. When you take off with the bike level, it’s easy to control your flight and land smoothly. Much better than dropping the front and getting the catapult treatment. For fast drops, practice manuals. For slow drops, practice pedal wheelies.

Look in the Skills/training area on this site. I’ve written a fair amount about drops.

The book Mastering Mountain Bike Skills has insane detail.

Skinnies

– Start wide and low.

– Carry enough speed so you’re not wobbling. If you’re pedaling, use a
gear that lets you stay smooth. Novice riders get jacked up with a too-easy gear.

– Look to the end.

– LOOK TO THE END!!!

Also in the book.

Rock it,

— Lee