I have Shimano on all my bikes. My little trick I made up to remember on the mtb was "big easy". Once was a movie called that. So, the big lever makes it easier to pedal. Comes in handy when you need to shift in a hurry or bite it lol.

I love my little Trek mtb for technical trails. It's a totally different challenge from road. And in ways will make you a stronger road rider. It's nice when you don't feel like dealing with Mother Nature's wind, head to the woods. Trees are your friend. Well, in terms of wind and shade. Biting it on a tree is not such a friendly feeling lol.

My cross bike I love for the type of ride you did today. With the 700c size tires though, I don't see myself doing very well on technical single track. Smaller is better to manuver.

Glad you had a good ride. The clinic will surely help. Some things are the best when you re-ride the obstacle yourself alone until you nail it. That's when whoops of joy can be heard echo-ing thru the woods.