Kenta’s XC Tips: Carrying Speed

Let’s be honest—just mashing pedals doesn’t always make you faster. Carrying speed isn’t about pushing harder; it’s about finding the flow and letting the trail do some of the work. Kenta Gallagher, Cannondale Factory Racing’s technical coach and resident speed whisperer, is back to show you how to keep things smooth —because smooth is fast. Today, he’s breaking down the art of momentum management, efficient pedaling, and picking the line that keeps your pace quick and steady.

1. Momentum Management

"Momentum management—when you think of it, you’re basically trying to subtract anything that can help you lose speed," says Kenta. In other words, stop sabotaging yourself. Look ahead, find the backside of bumps or jumps, and aim for them. Hit them right, and you’ll fly out with more speed than you had going in. Kenta compares it to a pump track: "Drive the bike into the ground and go light on it again." It’s all about timing.

Kenta’s Tip: "Flow the trail, drive the bike down, and let it breathe." Nail this, and it’ll feel like the trail’s giving you a free pass.

2. Efficient Pedaling

Pedaling harder isn’t the answer—pedaling smarter is. "As long as you’re always putting consistent power down, you’ll always be able to keep rolling forward," Kenta explains. The key is to keep a steady rhythm, not explosive bursts. Find a pace that lets you keep moving without burning out, and you’ll stay fast through the whole ride.

Kenta’s Tip: A smooth, even pedal stroke keeps you rolling. Think of it as finding your groove and sticking with it. No rush, just that steady power will get you where you want to go, faster.

3. Choosing the Right Line

Lines aren’t set in stone—unless you’re riding over one. According to Kenta, "There isn’t a right and a wrong line, but there’s a hard and an easier line." The key is to find the one that lets you roll smoothly and maintain speed. Whether it’s a wider arc around a corner or a quick hop over a rock, the easiest line is the one that lets you flow like water—fast, effortless, and flowing in sync with the trail.

Kenta’s Tip: Don’t just follow the crowd—"Experiment with lines and see which one feels smooth and fast." The smoother the ride, the faster you’ll be.

Conclusion

Carrying speed isn’t about overpowering the trail—it’s about being smart, smooth, and finding your rhythm. Kenta’s tips are all about keeping that flow, staying efficient with your pedaling, and choosing the line that lets you keep your speed without fizzling out.

Now it’s your turn—note these tips, hit the trail, and see how much faster (and smoother) your ride gets.