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The ultimate test for good leg technique is steep “pitch climbing.” While humping up a multi-mile fire-road upgrade is a test of mere endurance and shifting strategy, climbing a short, steep, irregularly surfaced uphill section of trail requires the rider to dynamically combine maximum power, maximum shock absorption, superior shifting and advanced lean techniques perfectly to reach the top still on the pedals.
There are two divergent philosophies on optimal body position for serious climbing situations: 1) Climbing Seated School—these guys say to hunker down on the seat and pedal furiously to top any hill. 2) Climbing Standing School—these guys insist the climbing upright is the one true way to conquer all steep uphill stretches. Both techniques work pretty well and the rider who can master both styles will effectively double his/her options for approaching all climbing situations. Both styles have their drawbacks as well as strengths.
Climbing seated. Arguably the best routine climbing technique, especially on loose surfaces, because your body position is centered and stays very stable, ensuring excellent traction.
Climbing standing. Climbing upright successfully requires mastery of two basic principles: 1) Not shifting too low initially and during the climb, thereby losing traction and/or leg strength from spinning the pedals at excessive RPMs, and 2) having a perfect situational lean.
