Skills for thrills (2011)

A one-on-one riding masterclass with Fabien Barel. When it comes to flat-out, calculated riding, few impress like Barel. Every component on his bikes is carefully chosen, every riding input finely tuned to extract speed from the trail. That precision translates into invaluable lessons for any rider. MBUK tech editor Rob Weaver joined Fabien in Nice for filming and was blown away: “Riding with Fabien really opens your eyes to what’s possible on a mountain bike. His calculated approach to speed and deep understanding of technique are astounding. The way he breaks down skills and explains exactly what’s happening—or what needs to—makes it easy to learn, whatever your style of riding.” Packed with over an hour of wisdom, this masterclass covers everything from bike set-up and equipment to advanced trail-shredding techniques that’ll leave your riding buddies wide-eyed and trail centre regulars shouting, “Oi! No professionals!”