Pushing vs. Leaning: The correct cornering technique on a bicycle

Cornering is one of the key skills on a bicycle – and at the same time one of the most underestimated. This is because the technique differs fundamentally depending on the intended use: while off-road you actively "push" the bike underneath you , on a road bike you usually lean into the curve together with the bike .

By Fabian Huber 3 minutes read time

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About the author Fabian Huber

Fabian founded MYVELO together with Vincent. The two share a long-standing passion for cycling. Together they have cycled thousands of kilometers and fought for victories in the German racing bike league. The idea of founding MYVELO arose from their many years of experience and knowledge of what makes a good bike. Find out more about MYVELO now

Published: September 1, 2026

But when is which technique appropriate? And what physical processes are taking place behind the scenes? This article provides the answers.

The basis: centrifugal forces and balance

Whether on an e-MTB or a racing bike – two key forces are at work when cornering:

Centrifugal force → pulls outwards
Weight force → acts downwards

To navigate the curve stably, these forces must be balanced. This is achieved through correct body posture and lean .

Technique 1: "Laying" – The classic cornering technique on asphalt

When racing bikes or fast e-bike tours on asphalt, the so-called laying technique is used.

Here's how it works:

Body and bicycle form a unit
They both lean into the curve together.
The center of gravity remains as stable as possible above the wheel.

Advantages:

Maximum possible speed
Even traction on both tires
Efficient in long, fast corners

Typical areas of application:

road cycling
Fast commutes by e-bike
Asphalt roads

Important:

Press down on the outside pedal
Look through the curve
Hold the handlebars loosely – don't tense up.

👉 This technique is ideal when grip and speed are paramount.

Technique 2: “Push” – Control in the field

The pushing technique is used in rough terrain, on trails or in technical sections.

Here, the opposite happens: 👉 The bicycle is pushed into the curve under the body , while the upper body remains more upright.

Here's how it works:

The body's center of gravity remains central or slightly to the outside.
The bike is actively leaned into the curve.
Arms and legs work dynamically

Advantages:

More control on loose surfaces
Improved balance at low speeds
Quick changes of direction possible

Typical areas of application:

Mountain bike (trail, enduro)
Trial and technical sections
Gravel and loose subsoil

Important:

Pressure on the outside pedal when cornering
Actively move the bike among itself
Keep upper body stable

👉 This technique helps to maintain control even with low grip.

Direct comparison

criterion	Laying (racing bike)	Push (MTB)
posture	Inclined with the bike	Upper body upright
Bike movement	Hardly relative to the body	Active under the body
speed	High	Rather moderate
Subsoil	Asphalt, solid	Loose, technically
Goal	Efficiency & Speed	Control & Stability

When should you use which technology?

The choice depends heavily on three factors:

1. Subsurface

Asphalt → Laying
Gravel / Trail → Push

2. Speed

Quick → Lay
Slow / technical → Press

3. Curve radius

Wide curves → Laying
Tight turns → Push

Common mistakes – and how to avoid them

❌ Too upright a posture on asphalt

→ Leads to insufficient grip at higher speeds
✔ Solution: Actively lean the bike into the curve

❌ Overly aggressive "lying in" on the terrain

→ Increases the risk of slipping
✔ Solution: Push the bike, keep your body stable

❌ Incorrect gaze direction

→ You go where you look
✔ Solution: Always look through the curve, not at the ground

Conclusion: There is no single right technique.

“Pushing” and “laying” are not opposites – but rather two tools that are used depending on the situation.

For speed and efficiency → Laying
For control and technology → Press

Those who master both techniques not only ride more safely, but also with significantly more confidence – whether on an e-bike, racing bike or mountain bike.

MYVELO Tip 🚴

Especially with an e-bike, it's worthwhile to consciously practice both techniques. The increased weight and additional motor assistance change the riding characteristics – particularly in curves.

👉 Practice specifically: