Ultimate Guide to Cornering with Yanto Barker | Cycling Weekly

Summary

This video offers expert tips on mastering the art of cycling cornering with Ianto Barker, a former professional cyclist. It covers essential techniques such as braking points, entry speed, and the importance of a smooth line through corners. The tutorial emphasizes safety, speed maintenance, and proper body positioning, including raising the inside pedal to avoid crashes. Viewers are guided through the process of cornering with practical advice on handling steep descents and varying road conditions, ultimately aiming to improve confidence and performance on the bike.

Takeaways

• 🚴‍♂️ Cornering is a crucial cycling skill that enhances safety and speed during descents.
• 🏁 Professional cyclist Ianto Barker shares insights on mastering cornering techniques.
• 📍 The video is filmed in Villafeche, Spain, known for its challenging switchback climbs.
• 🛑 Anticipate braking points before entering a corner to ensure the correct speed for a safe turn.
• 🔄 Focus on the entry, midpoint, and exit of a corner to maintain a smooth and controlled line.
• 🌀 The best line through a corner is the smoothest, avoiding sudden changes in direction or lean.
• 🚫 Avoid crossing the white line, even on open roads, to prevent accidents with larger vehicles.
• 💡 Countersteering is an advanced technique that helps initiate a lean and maintain stability.
• 🚴‍♀️ Lowering the center of gravity by getting low in the saddle or using drops can improve control.
• 🚫 Avoid braking heavily during the corner as it can cause the bike to straighten up and lose traction.
• 🌧️ In wet conditions, reduce reliance on the rear brake to prevent skidding and instability.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the video with Ianto Barker?

The video focuses on teaching viewers how to corner properly while cycling, with the aim of improving safety and speed during descents.

Why is cornering an essential skill in cycling?

Cornering is essential for making cyclists safer and faster when descending, as it allows them to navigate turns effectively and maintain control of their bike.

What is the first step Ianto Barker suggests when approaching a corner?

Ianto suggests thinking about braking points before reaching the entry to the corner, ensuring the correct speed for the tightness of the corner and being aware of both front and back brakes.

What is the importance of the entry point in cornering?

The entry point is crucial because it sets the stage for the entire cornering process. It's where the cyclist starts to lean in at the correct speed, avoiding the need to trail brake too much.

What does Ianto Barker mean by 'midpoint' in the context of cornering?

The midpoint is the point in the corner after the entry, where the cyclist should be looking to position themselves for the best exit. It's the turning point in the corner.

Why is it recommended to exit a corner with as much speed as possible?

Exiting a corner with as much speed as possible helps to carry more speed into the next section of the road, maintaining momentum and improving overall cycling efficiency.

What is the best line to take when cornering according to the video?

The best line is the smoothest line, which means committing to the entry and maintaining a smooth path all the way around the corner without making sudden or jagged movements.

What is countersteering and why is it important in cornering?

Countersteering is a technique where a cyclist slightly steers in the opposite direction before turning to initiate a lean into the corner. It's important because it helps to stabilize the bike and prepare it for the turn.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when cornering?

Common mistakes include coming in too fast and straightening up, taking jagged lines, and crossing the white line, which can lead to loss of control and potential accidents.

Why is it advised to lower your center of gravity when cornering?

Lowering the center of gravity, such as by going into the drops, makes the lean angle feel less extreme and the speed more manageable, contributing to better control and stability.

What is the significance of raising the inside pedal when cornering?

Raising the inside pedal prevents it from catching on the ground, which can destabilize the bike and potentially cause the cyclist to fall off.

Why should cyclists avoid braking while in the middle of a corner?

Braking in the middle of a corner can cause the bike to lose traction and potentially straighten up, which can lead to instability and a higher risk of an accident.

How should cyclists balance the use of front and back brakes when cornering?

Cyclists should primarily use the front brake for slowing down, as it provides more grip and stability. However, they should also use the back brake to maintain balance, especially in wet conditions where excessive use of the back brake can cause skidding.

What should cyclists assess when approaching a corner?

Cyclists should assess the corner for potential hazards such as surface changes, bumps, gravel, white lines, and any vehicles or other obstacles that may affect their path.

What is the recommended approach for improving cornering skills?

The best way to improve cornering skills is through practice, gradually building confidence and refining technique over time.