Whats the point of taking a relaxed stance on the bike when descending gravel roads at high speeds, when in reality, this approach seems to lead to a complete loss of control and increased risk of crashing? Every instructional video and article Ive come across preaches the importance of keeping a light touch on the handlebars and letting the bike do the work, but when faced with loose gravel, steep inclines, and unpredictable terrain, doesnt this approach simply boil down to a game of chance?
Why do so-called experts insist on advocating for this method, when in reality, the physics of the situation dictate that a more assertive and deliberate approach would be far more effective in maintaining control and avoiding accidents? Is it simply a case of outdated dogma and a reluctance to challenge conventional wisdom, or is there some underlying logic that Im missing?
Furthermore, whats the deal with the obsession over weight distribution and shifting ones center of gravity to improve stability on gravel descents? In practice, doesnt this approach simply result in a series of awkward, last-minute adjustments that do more harm than good? Wouldnt a more effective approach involve developing a keen sense of spatial awareness, anticipation, and bike handling skills, rather than relying on some vague notion of weight distribution to get you down the mountain in one piece?