In dry conditions, we can all feel like a hero — flying down a trail with (what feels like) zero chance of sliding out. That sense of freedom, totally relaxed in body and mind, makes riding feel — dare I say it — almost easy.
Then it rains. And in the UK, let’s face it, that often means the trails stay wet for the whole winter. With that, we lose the relaxed flow, start riding slower and tighter, and the buzz can quickly dwindle.
But winter doesn’t have to kill your confidence or fun. Let’s look at a few techniques to help you stay relaxed, keep the wheels turning, and find grip in the slick.
Steeps
Find the grippy line
On steep, slippery ground, the challenge is slowing down. First, hunt for the line that gives your tyres the best chance of finding grip while braking.
Dial in your body position
Balance is everything. Keep your torso centred so weight is distributed evenly between both wheels. Too far forward and you risk tucking the front; too far back and you’ll lose braking power from the rear. Aim for even pressure front and back.
Braking finesse
Once your line and body position are dialled, focus on your braking. Panicking makes you grab a handful and lock up. Stay calm, stay light, and modulate the brakes to keep traction.
Roots
Speed can help
I’m not a huge fan of the old “speed is your friend” saying, but over wet roots it can sometimes be true. Ride them too slowly and the bike will get bounced all over the place. Add a little bit of pace (within your limits), and the bike tends to skip straighter and smoother.
Pick a smarter line
Look for sections with fewer roots, or aim to cross them at a right angle. The straight line isn’t always the best line — a more calculated route can give you confidence and flow through a tricky section.
Unweight when possible
This is a more advanced skill, but incredibly useful. To unweight, you first drive weight down into the bike with your legs, then let it spring back slightly so you float over the roots with less pressure (and less sliding).
Or ride positively
If unweighting feels too advanced, focus on purposeful body movements instead. Pump through roots with your arms and legs to stay active. Doing nothing — freezing up — is the worst thing you can do in a wet root section.
Corners
Control your speed
It might sound obvious, but trying to ride a track at your summer pace when it’s slick won’t end well. The reality is: less grip means longer braking zones. Think of it as braking lighter for longer. This gives you more control entering the corner, less chance of sliding, and a better chance of railing it.
Turn where there’s grip
It’s not always easy to find, but it’s about stacking the odds in your favour. Look for parts of the corner that are slightly banked, have more gravel, or offer better traction. A corner might be long, but the point where you actually change direction can be delayed until you reach the grippiest spot.
Adjust your lean
In the wet, bike lean becomes even more about feel. Yes, all the usual cornering techniques apply, but be prepared to back off a little and let the feedback guide you. Your brain might scream, “You’re going to slide!” — but trust the actual feedback from the bike. That’s what’s real, and it helps you react to what is happening rather than what might happen.
Bike Tweaks for Winter
Your technique is the biggest factor in wet-weather riding, but a few smart tweaks to your setup can make life easier:
Tyres: A tread with more bite helps. If you don’t swap tyres often, try an intermediate like the Continental Argotal. Dropping tyre pressure by 1–2 PSI can also add grip.
Brakes: Warm them up before a descent by dragging them lightly on a roll-in. This helps them bite more consistently when you need them.
Mudguard: A simple one, but a game-changer. Mine never comes off in winter.
Silicone spray: Wipe it on your frame to keep mud from sticking. Just make sure you avoid the brake rotors!
Final Thoughts
Winter riding doesn’t have to be about survival. With a few adjustments to your technique, mindset, and setup, you can find grip even when the trails are greasy. Lean into the challenge — riding slick roots, wet corners, and greasy steeps will sharpen your skills and make dry conditions feel like a dream when they return.
So layer up, get out there, and embrace the mud. The more you practise now, the more confidence and flow you’ll carry into spring.
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