If you have ever wondered what all the fuss is about, spinkings is a great place to start your journey.
What Are Spinkings?
Spinkings are a unique and thrilling aspect of mountain biking that combines speed, skill, and a touch of daring. Originating from the UK’s vibrant mountain biking scene, spinkings involve navigating a series of tight, twisting turns—often on a downhill gradient—while maintaining momentum and control. Unlike traditional berms or switchbacks, spinkings demand precise body positioning and quick direction changes. They are typically found on purpose-built trails or natural terrain where the path weaves through trees, rocks, or man-made features. The term itself is a blend of ‘spin’ and ‘kingings’ (an old dialect word for sharp turns), reflecting the fluid, almost dance-like motion required.
Why Spinkings Matter for Beginners
For newcomers to mountain biking, spinkings might look intimidating, but they are an excellent way to develop core skills. Mastering spinkings teaches you how to read the trail, shift your weight effectively, and use your brakes sparingly. These skills translate directly to other areas of riding, from technical descents to tight singletrack. Moreover, spinkings are often less steep than full-on downhill sections, making them a safe training ground. Many UK trail centres, such as those in Wales and Scotland, include spinkings in their green and blue graded routes, so you can practice without feeling overwhelmed.
Essential Gear for Spinkings
Before you tackle your first spinkings, ensure you have the right equipment. A well-maintained mountain bike with responsive brakes and grippy tyres is non-negotiable. Consider a dropper post, which allows you to lower your saddle for better manoeuvrability. Protective gear is also key: a helmet, gloves, and knee pads are a minimum. For spinkings specifically, flat pedals with metal pins give you confidence to dab a foot if needed. Finally, check your tyre pressure—slightly lower than usual (around 20-25 psi for most tyres) increases traction on the loose surfaces often found in spinkings.
How to Ride Spinkings: Step-by-Step
Start by approaching the spinkings at a moderate speed. Look ahead through the turn, not at your front wheel. As you enter, lean your bike, not just your body—this is called countersteering. Keep your outside pedal down and your inside pedal up to avoid clipping rocks. Use your front brake gently before the turn, then release it as you lean. Finally, accelerate smoothly out of the turn to maintain flow. Practice on a gentle slope first, and gradually increase speed as you gain confidence.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Braking too hard mid-turn, which causes the front wheel to wash out.
- Looking down at the ground instead of ahead at the exit.
- Riding with a rigid, straight-arm posture—stay loose and centred.
- Using clipless pedals before you are comfortable, as unclipping in a panic can lead to falls.
- Ignoring trail conditions; wet roots and rocks make spinkings much trickier.
Where to Practise Spinkings in the UK
Some of the best places to learn spinkings include BikePark Wales, Glentress Forest in Scotland, and the Forest of Dean. These centres have dedicated skills areas with progressive spinkings. Many also offer coaching sessions specifically for beginners. Always check trail grades and closures before you go. Remember, spinkings are not about speed—they are about control and having fun.
Building Confidence and Progression
Once you can ride a set of spinkings smoothly, try linking them together. This builds flow and endurance. You can also practice on natural trails where spinkings appear unexpectedly, honing your reaction time. Film yourself or ride with a more experienced friend who can give feedback. Over time, you will find that spinkings become second nature, and you will seek them out on every ride. They are a fantastic way to improve your overall mountain biking ability while enjoying the great British outdoors.
Final Tips for Beginners
Warm up before hitting spinkings, and always ride within your limits. If a section looks too hard, walk it first. Hydrate and take breaks. Most importantly, enjoy the process—spinkings are meant to be fun, not stressful. With practice, you will wonder how you ever rode without them.
