Jobe’s top gear tips for an awesome ride at Finchy

Jobe O’Connor is Finch Hatton MTB’s Recreation Trails Leading Hand. He also worked with World Trail on the construction of the trails. What does that mean? He knows a thing or two about these trails. 

Jobe took the time to share with us his top tips for your bike and gear, and how to make the most of your next trip to FHMTB.

Are you an experienced rider planning a trip to check out Finch Hatton MTB? Or maybe you are you an absolute beginner, or a local looking to increase your confidence when riding?

Well, here’s what you need to have an awesome ride here at Finchy where there no bad days!

The Bike

The most obvious question is whether you need a brand-new bike. While we here at Finch Hatton MTB are always advocates of adding a shiny new steed to the bike fleet, it may not be needed or necessary.

Finch Hatton MTB is a gravity orientated trail network with a range of airflow trials – all allowing for maximum progression to get you into the air if that’s what you want, or options to stay firmly on the ground if that’s more your jam.

With fast flowing trails, large banked berms and progressive jumps galore you may ask what bike should I ride?

Finchy riders come in all shapes and sizes and so do their bikes. We’ve had BMX bikes, hybrid cruisers and even some gravel bikes descend our trails. However, the best tool for the job would be a modern All Mountain or Enduro bike. 140mm to 160mm of travel is enough for a good time on our airflow trails.

Perhaps you already have a bike but aren’t having the best time riding it?

Well, that doesn’t mean you need a new ride. Maybe a few easy upgrades will have you shredding in no time.

Finch Hatton trails can get a lot of rain and when most QLD trail networks are closed, Finch Hatton MTB trails are excellent in the wet, with traction being top-level. It’s what us mountain bikers call “hero dirt” – unlimited traction, no dust and the confidence to just send it!

But when things dry out, our trail surface changes to “loose over hard”. With these conditions tyre choice and air pressure are key.

Tyre Choice

Locals favour Maxxis Assagai on the front, and Dissector on the rear.

If Maxxis tyres aren’t your preference, then try a Schwalbe Magic Mary up front and Big Betty on the rear, or a specialised Butcher on the front and Eliminator on the rear.

Whatever brand you prefer to use, ensure you opt for a gravity orientated tyre with an emphasis on maximum grip. While fast rolling XC tyres offer maximum efficiency, they don’t offer the traction or control most riders would like on our trails.

Air Pressure

Tyre pressures can play a huge part in obtaining that ever elusive grip! Drier conditions may call for some lower pressures to allow your tyres to conform and keep you on trail. Try experimenting with pressures of around 24-25 psi and adjust for your preference from there.

Suspension

Suspension setup can be a daunting task. If your bike allows for suspension tuning, then a good base point for our airflow trails is to slightly stiffen your suspension and slow down the rebound dampening slightly to allow for smooth and predictable take-offs when progressing your jump skills.

The Kit

As for your kit, take into consideration your plans.

Do you want to test your skills and clear every jump down Chuck a Sickie? Then a full-face helmet, gloves, some knee and elbow guards and proper MTB shoes will have you protected and ready to launch.

But maybe you’re out for some adventure, a cruise up G’day G’day, along Nope Rope, finishing on No Drama Cane Farmer and into No Wuckas. Then grab your quality MTB trail helmet, some enclosed shoes and comfortable clothing and hit the trail!

Corry Cycles Finch Hatton have all your gear and are just across the road from the trails.

Whether you’re chasing airtime or just looking for a cruisy adventure, Finch Hatton MTB has something for every rider.

By setting up your bike with the right gear, dialling in your suspension, and gearing up with the right kit, you’ll be well on your way to making the most of your time on the trails. So, pack your sense of adventure, tune your ride, and come experience the fun and progression that Finchy has to offer – there’s no such thing as a bad day here!