There's a mind-numbing number of MX course configurations. Recently, track designers have adopted an interesting concept – a leapfrog set of jumps, each one following the prior. It's kind of like a novel, where one cliffhanger follows another with the tension mounting the whole time.

With us though, the designers prefix each jump with a loamy corner, just to elevate the tension and challenge our skill set. How can you handle this situation and gain a winning edge over the competition? Good question. One effective way is to adopt a technique used by our no-exhaust brethren, the BMX'ers.

These guys take the first jump in the regular manner but then get into the rhythm of carrying the front wheel over the jump's lip while wheel-tapping their rear wheel. Effectively, this will keep you pointed at the target while preparing you for the next jump in this roller coaster. Once you get into the rhythm of it you can work on picking up the pace.

The reason the track engineers make these configurations isn't to torture us – it's a tool to make the race more exciting. If you don't think these guys aren't good screenwriters, you don't get it yet. The sport is becoming increasingly sophisticated. But it takes the riders to make it all click.

But to be competitive on these types of courses, you really need to practice on them. Go out, practice the tactic outlined above. Go slow at first and get a feel for it. It's a matter of rhythm. Timing is everything in this scenario. But just keep in mind that on race day you'll be crowded on the roller coaster so be ready for last minute adjustments.