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<br /> Male it Flow It*
<br /> �,� ' yif. i t ,.Flow is a way to describe the rhythm or tempo of a f : . .
<br /> applying flow concepts to technical ;,.4.,,, ` ""
<br /> trail,andproperly P � , � 4 ��ti � �,� '
<br /> '
<br /> trails can help reduce user conflicts,erosion,skidding, ,i,,, ,,,,,* h ,,,` W {h t, ,
<br /> and crashes. The goal is to strategically manage the ,,d ' • " ° ''''„,-t. 4} -,4.,%' ,, 2=
<br /> user's speed and momentum. '
<br /> Although it may seem intangible, good flow is x ,
<br /> immediately recognized and appreciated by accom-
<br /> plished riders—it's akin to surfing the dirt.A success- `'•
<br /> t ful technical mountain bike trail will include smooth
<br /> flow and flow changes throughout its length.Flow can '2z, $ ' 4'
<br /> range from open and flowing to tight and technical: ° ;„ -
<br /> • Open and flowing advanced trails have long- kms, .
<br /> radius,sweeping turns, smooth dips and rises, ' '"
<br /> long sightlines,few technical challenges,and
<br /> tno abrupt corners or sudden obstacles.They .z,
<br /> allow users to gain (and retain) momentum ' • ''` ;:?- ,
<br /> and reach higher speeds. Riders love these ' ; ''
<br /> smooth and fast trails, especially on extendedt.
<br /> downhills with bermed turns and even jumps. ,
<br /> • Tight and technical advanced trails have sharp- '
<br /> er turns and twists, rougher surfaces,a nar- Valerie Naylor
<br /> rower tread,and natural or built obstacles. -
<br /> They provide challenge while keeping speed
<br /> down.They often incorporate such features as
<br /> log pyramids,boulders, rock armoring, drop
<br /> offs,roots, log crossings, log rides,and ladder
<br /> bridges. Successful navigation of a tight and
<br /> technical section of trail is a central goal of
<br /> many riders. ! v
<br /> _. .
<br /> It is important to avoid abruptly changing the ,
<br /> trail from fast to slow.Smooth the transition and slow ;
<br /> riders gradually by progressively increasing the tread
<br /> texture, gradually narrowing the trail corridor, instal- ' '
<br /> ling a series of decreasing radius turns,or designing a ..
<br /> slight uphill rise into the trail. _ y
<br /> Provide Optional Lines , �` ' :��
<br /> Optional lines are short detours that offer different dif- - .. ` " y t
<br /> ficulty than the main trail.On advanced trails,option- = `
<br /> al lines can provide an easier,alternate route around a ..� ;, ,
<br /> technical feature—often called a"ride-around"or"B- r ,;;, € n L.; -;,..,;. ,,
<br /> line." On intermediate or beginner routes, optional '
<br /> Optional lines withinLuke Chiu
<br /> the same corridor add variety
<br /> lines can provide a detour to add challenge for more while minimizing impact.
<br /> skilled riders.
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<br /> How to Design Challenging pails
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