Edge Traps

An edge trap is any raised lip running parallel to your direction of travel: the edge of a new asphalt layer, a rut in old tarmac, a tram or rail line, a manhole rim or the edge of a gravel shoulder. If the tyre runs alongside it at a shallow angle, it can be steered by the edge instead of by you, and the bike can wobble or fall.

• Cross edges at as large an angle as possible, ideally 45° or more.
• Keep the bike upright and throttle steady when crossing; don't brake hard on the edge.
• Be extra careful in rain, when road markings and metal edges are slippery.

Off-road, ruts and the edges of wheel tracks work the same way: choose a line and commit, or cross decisively.