Climbing on a trail with no grip – whether it’s loose stones, wet rocks or slick mud – requires good balance and calm, controlled pedalling.

The key is to stay relaxed and loose as you slide forwards onto the nose of the saddle, stretch your body weight forwards and down towards the bars, and spin the pedals smoothly.  The smooth application of power through the pedal strokes is vital – if you mash the pedals with any force the back tyre will spin out, then the bike will stop.

As you climb try to be aware of your steering at all times.  If it feels light you don’t have enough weight over the front wheel so really crunch forwards and down.