Class 2B Pylon Slalom: How to Weave Through the Cones Cleanly

The pylon slalom is a line of cones you weave through, left and right, at a steady pace. It tests rhythm, steering and smooth throttle control. Once the timing clicks it is one of the easier courses.

The technique

1. Get into gear before the entry. Shift up and settle your speed before the first cone so you are not changing gear mid-course.
2. Enter wide. Start the first turn from the outside so the line is a smooth curve rather than a sharp cut.
3. Look one or two cones ahead. Your eyes should already be on the next gap while you pass the current cone.
4. Steer with the handlebars, balance with your body. Push gently on the inside bar to start each turn and keep your body upright and relaxed.
5. Keep steady throttle. A small, constant throttle keeps the bike stable. Rolling off mid-turn makes it drop into the turn too sharply.
6. Exit straight and smooth before braking for the next course.

Mistakes that hit cones

• Staring at the cones. You steer toward what you look at. Look at the gaps.
• Turning too tightly. A tight line leaves no margin for error. Wider arcs are safer and still within the course.
• Jerky throttle. On-off throttle makes the bike pitch and run wide. Keep your wrist still.
• Going too slowly. At very low speed the bike falls into each turn. A little more speed makes the slalom easier.