DirtWorld.com:

I am about to give you the key to speed. One phrase. Are you ready?

Don’t use the brakes.

Don’t look so disappointed. What were you expecting, Magic? Now just a second, before you reach for the back button let me explain. I don’t mean to not use them at all, just use them less.

One of the best ways to improve your riding is to go with someone that is faster than you. Not way faster, so that you get discouraged, but a bit faster, so you really have to work to keep up. Once you’ve found someone that fits the bill, try following him (or her, that could be fun too) through some downhill singletrack. Notice how the gap keeps getting bigger? You’re not doing much pedaling so it’s not likely a strength issue. What could it be? I’ll tell you, the faster rider is using their brakes less.