xc rider to dh??? how hard is the transition

jon1993

That sounds fun I want to try that one now haha thanks alot guys I will let you know how I get on lol

lochussie

There's no magical difference between designated DH tracks and other trails. Just start on the lower graded ones and take it easy the first time down anything.

rockmonkeysc

There's quite a difference between a black xc trail and a black dh trail.

Maro

It sounds like you'll get on just fine.

I used to ride the old DH at FoD and at Bringewood (Ludlow) on a hardtail, which had V brakes for a while. A competant rider on a modern bike should have no real problems.

ej2320

Bringewood is quite easy for a DH track, there's no huge jumps, the tabletops are rollable and there's always a way round thing

But it's still great fun and great to practise on due to it being an easier track.. Although it is very tricky in the wet with greasy mud and a lot of surface water

jon1993

just bought my first downhill bike to be honest it doesn't feel much different than my xc bike except it weighing more than double and hitting things I wouldn't dream off going over on my xc bike on my dh bike and hardly feeling anything. I have to say jumping something that weighs 20kg is a bit concerning at first how hard you have to work on it. Thanks for all the help!

rockmonkeysc

That weight helps make the bike feel more stable and adds some strength (usually). I have tried a 34lb Trek Session and hated it, much preferred the stable, solid feel of my 39lb Scalp.
Downhill bikes really start working best at high speeds and when you're at your limit.
What bike did you get?

paul.skibum

I'm guessing its the Giant Faith 2 DH in his signature.

rockmonkeysc

That would explain the 20kg! Heavy old beasts but you won't break one.