In many mtb movies about the style "Downhill" the riders casually twist their fork and front tire at jumps, such as here and here.
Is this a stunt for "cool points" or does it aid in stability/speed in some way (as in, helps you finish first)?
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I do wonder if it gives some gyroscopic stability to have the wheels non-planar while in the air. Could be a good undergraduate thesis.– RoboKarenCommented Jun 17, 2014 at 4:07
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2 Answers
Typically cool points, but it can be used to align the bike with the landing surface if the launch, trajectory and landing aren't in a straight line.
Bar turns not only look stylish but can also aid in body movements on the bike. If you need to correct position for a landing, such as when you go over a hip, you'll need to turn the bars a bit.
As for performance, there is one time it will make a difference, and that's when you use it to 'scrub' a jump. This means it allows you to clear the jump with less height so that you come to the ground quicker and waste less time in the air.
But mostly it just looks really cool and generally indicates more skilled (or more fun) riders.
