Going back to the roots (
literally) of the Whistler Mountain Bike Park, technical riding is what started it all but some could say has been overshadowed recently by the significant development of freeride/flow trails found not only at the Whistler Bike Park but around the world. It seems trails like Crank It Up, A-Line, and Dirt Merchant have been getting all the attention lately, and for good reason, but it's not all about high speed and big air. For some it is but for others, root infested single-track, intricate granite features, and steep rough terrain is what gets the blood flowing. Natural terrain provides creativity allowing riders to find unique line choices and endless options for progression.
Watch the new video that is all about technical riding highlighting some of bike park classics and some recent additions.
Video by Goldstein Productions
Team Riders: Lula Darquier, Peter Matthews, and Trevor BergTECHNICAL TRAIL PROGRESSIONWith lots of technical trails to choose from, here's a sampling of a few at every level that will help you move to the top.
BEGINNER TECHNICALDel Boca Vista allows new park riders to dabble in technical terrain as a short trail option off EZ Does It and Golden Triangle. It is a good first step in learning what it takes handle natural features and rougher terrain. If you're an advanced rider just know beginners have the right of way. Slow down before coming up fast behind them and give them space.
INTERMEDIATE TECHNICALThe classic technical intermediate line choice in the Fitz Zone is Funshine Rolly Drops > Smoke & Mirrors > Blueseum > Ho Chi Min. Funshine is the newest addition to this line which can be seen underneath the Fitz Chair and starts after the first two corners of B-Line. This is a go-to for many when warming up for the day and those who need to feel solid before moving to advanced trails.
ADVANCED TECHNICALLower Whistler Downhill and Afternoon Delight are the favourites in the Fitz Zone where higher up, Garbo Zone and Top of the World round out the majority of advanced technical trails. Original Sin, Fatcrobat, and No Joke are Garbo originals which will test the hands and brakes of every rider.
EXPERT TECHNICALAt the highest level, Schleyer, Detroit Rock City, Joyride, In Deep, Goat's Gully, and Captain Safety represent some of the heaviest hitters around. This is where the steepest, most intricate and challenging terrain is found and where some of the worlds best riders will find lines that for most are unimaginable. Don't just jump in with two feet though, progress to this level by mastering the trail skills required to ride hard technical lines. Scope out lines, work your way up and consider hiring an instructor to fill in gaps in your technique.
Lula on lock through Funshine - Photo by Mark MackayPete airing on one of Joyride's granite features - Photo by Mark MackayIf you're a fan of the tech we want to know what's your line choice? Where is your zone and what keeps you coming back for more?
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I'm loving having the trails to myself! Nothing better than watching 50+ people drop into A Line in a matter of minutes and the likes of Schleyer being totally un-used!
Whis's flow trails are amazing, but their tech is the jam.
Can't wait for some O-Sin>Goats>Captain Safety>Renegade>D1>Schleyer>Joyride
I mean I finally rode it, in sheer terror the first time down, but I rode it.
de.audionetwork.com/browse/m/track/half-alive_90125
Might be worth a visit.