Descending in mud

[97tiger885]

I have been practicing off-pavement riding on the State Game Lands in PA.  Recently, we have had a lot of rain; so, I am getting an opportunity to ride in some mud.  I don't have much experience there.  I did one long  straight uphill and managed fine.  Downhill is another matter.  What is proper technique for descending on mud on a long, steep downhill with and without switchbacks? This is not deep mud but it is not just surface dampness.

[matttys]

Personally, I wouldn't try that on my Tiger.  That pig is a beast offroad.  I'd do that with my DR350 or Dakar, but with street tires you are going to have fun.  

My advice is to use lots of back break and put most of your weight on the foot pegs.  That way the balance is down low for your slipping and sliding.

[JetdocX]

Forget about a controlled descent.  Hang on and pray. :shock:

[Patrick]

The 2nd-to-best thing ist to let her roll. Don't even THINK about touching the front brake in a muddy descent. The wheel will lock and you fall off. And the rear break is petty useless when rinding downhill, Even if the track isn't muddy.

Gruß

Patrick

[97tiger885]

Thanks for the advice.  Sounds like the best course of action is don't do it.  Especially, since I tend to ride alone.

[flux]

Don't listen to the nay-sayers.  It can be done.  Engine braking (along with practice) is your friend.  

Don't hit the front brake.

Remember you have a clutch and some gears.

Keep yer weight to the rear, stand on the pegs.

Look ahead, eyes up, anticipate your next move before it happens.

[fano]

Until you lock up the front wheel with mud against you fender. Not much chance of keeping her upright. High fender mod is you friend in the mud.

[stook]

Thanks for the advice.  Sounds like the best course of action is don't do it.  Especially, since I tend to ride alone.

Well, if you do decide to ride down steep inclines in mud at least take a video. Some of us have never seen a big heavy Tiger do a really long downhill slide laying down.