ridecamp@endurance.net: Re: re [endurance] team bits

Re: re [endurance] team bits

HARVEY_HELEN@tandem.com
29 Apr 96 16:11:00 -0700

I ride with a Tteam bit. Before I used it the first time, I lunged
Bella in a snaffle, and then lunged her in the Tteam bit. She
did carry herself in a more balanced frame (tracking up better,
more rounded) in the Tteam bit. Why, I don't know..... The
re-balancing is the primary reason Linda recommends it.
Note: Bella isn't exactly well-balanced even on a good day -
the bit doesn't make a huge change, but it is noticable.

I generally ride with either the snaffle or the curb rein, mainly
because one at a time is easier to deal with on a long ride.
I like being able to switch depending on the circumstances, although it
does take some practice (galloping up/down a hill because you've lost
both sets of reins isn't recommended).

It can be relatively severe, and does require a fair degree of care.
It's probably not the best choice for beginners, but my hands aren't
that great (have the video to prove it). It's the only bit I've found
that Bella likes that offers any degree of control, but I don't think
I would have gotten one if I hadn't had the opportunity to try it
first.

Helen & Bella (I'm fussy about bits)