Manly Dam Step Ups


BobaFett's picture

By BobaFett - Posted on 07 May 2007

After the large flat rock that you tend to stop on and check out the view is a climb up towards Wakehurst Parkway. In the details on this site I think part of this is refered to as the step ups. I would like to know if anyone can actually ride their bikes up this?

Rob's picture

It was the last part I conquered on that trail (aside from the crazy 19th hole drop - no thanks!) and we talked about it here:

Many Dam Conquered!

Interestingly there is an article in the latest MTB Aus magazine about this very section. They say going right of the tree (the 'momentum line') is easier but I've tried that and always end up falling into the wire fence.

BobaFett's picture

Thanks for the reply. Definately give me something to work on. I got some way to go though. So whats your success rate now a couple of months after making it up for the first time? Have you developed a preferred line since your details posted earlier in the year?

Rob's picture

... I actually haven't been back since (yes - there are that many trails to ride round here!) and am quiet nervous about it. Esp. since it may be this weekend and if it turns out that way I will be on a nice, new, shiny bike. Oh dear Eye-wink

Little-Ditty's picture

Yes, I have seen guys ride up, down, back up, back down, and back up that section before. All without failing to clear any of those attempts. There are some gun riders out there. Keep trying guy! And I'll be right there, to watch! Laughing out loud

Matt's picture

Practice makes perfect, keep trying and spend a while giving it a go, you'll get it eventually. Took me ages to get it but I can clear it first time most times now. IMHO the best line to start with depends largely on the easiest route through the second step up and getting a run up for the third and goes like this:

[1] - I don't think you can go too far wrong with the first, I think I go middle-ish, on a line that lets you go round behind to the right of the bush/tree, then...
[2] - This bit's key to the easy line, go as far right as you can up the second step close to the fence it's a bit of a hop up but you should be able to get a good run up, this then sets you up for ...
[3] - a good run up from 2 up the middle of the third step.

Start smaller if you're not having any joy with this. find a step or rock in a park somewhere and practice getting your front wheel up and then letting the rear follow and conserving your momentum in a smooth motion up. Pushing down on your suspension prior to the step helps to give you a boost too.

Ta,
Matt.

Peter's picture

Im new here so should say hi.

Just give it a go.

first few times I went around didn't think I could so I didn't try, then tried it and it wasn't to hard just give it a go. You will get up once you work out your line to ride.

BobaFett's picture

thanks for all the comments and encouragement. I also checked out the Aus Mountain Bike article. It seemed quite good with a good pic showing the line options with associated comments. I'd post it here but don't know the rules in terms of copyright for this site.

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