As a general rule, you can ride through most streams if there is less than a foot of water. This may depend upon the type of bottom (sand, gravel, rocks), and the entry and exit. As you approach the stream, size it up to see if it is possible to cross without dismounting. It's nice if you can see the bottom and the type of underwater terrain. It will be difficult to pick out the exact line, as you should be focusing more on the entry and exit to dictate this. Make sure you are in a low gear before entry as you will not want shift once in the stream. You also may need a low gear to climb out of the stream on the opposite bank. Make sure your entry is obstacle free, and that you build up speed.

Keep in mind that it is not a good policy to submerge the bottom bracket or hubs under water for any amount of time. The water may leak into the seals and cause some damage to the bearings, and help to wash out the lubricant (grease).

As you enter the water, get up on the pegs in the "pounce" or "attack" position.Lock your elbows and get ready to hit the first rocks. After you hit the first rocks, get more upright out of the saddle and start to pedal. Grip the handlebars firmly and try to keep the bike dead straight. Your feet may be pedaling thru the water on each downstroke, just ignore this if you can. Select your exit point, which can mean a steep, muddy bank. It may require good pedal strength and traction to make it up the opposite bank, assuming you made it through the water. Use whatever momentum you have, and keep standing while pedaling. If you begin to loose traction, shift your weight a little to the back wheel and stay in the crouch position. The River Gods may let you pass, you may have to touch your foot down, or you may end up taking a bath! This uncertainty is some of the fun of mountainbiking through a water or creek crossing!