Adventure Rider Training: 10 Top Tips for New Adventure Riders
- Start with proper gear: Invest in quality protective equipment including a helmet, boots, gloves, and armor. Invest in a DOT-approved helmet, preferably full-face for maximum protection.
- Get sturdy, over-the-ankle boots designed for off-road riding. Wear gloves with good grip and protection.Consider armored jackets and pants or separate armor pieces for chest, back, elbows, and knees.
- Practice basic off-road techniques: Learn skills like standing on the pegs, counterbalancing, and looking ahead. Standing on the pegs improves control and absorbs bumps. Counterbalancing involves leaning your body opposite to the bike’s lean in turns. Always look ahead to where you want to go, not directly in front of your wheel. Practice these in a safe, open area before hitting trails. Watch our series on Dirt Bike Riding for Total Beginners.
- Adjust your bike setup: Soften your suspension for off-road riding to absorb bumps better. Lower tire pressure for improved traction on loose surfaces, but not so low that you risk pinch flats. Adjust handlebar, lever, and footpeg positions for comfort while standing.
- Master slow-speed control: Practice maneuvering at low speeds to improve balance and control. Practice tight turns, figure-eights, and balancing at very low speeds. This improves your overall control and helps in technical trail sections. Use the clutch and throttle together for smooth, controlled movement.
- Learn proper braking techniques: Understand how to use front and rear brakes effectively on different surfaces. On loose surfaces, rely more on the rear brake to avoid front-wheel washouts. Practice progressive braking – gradually increasing pressure rather than grabbing suddenly. Learn to modulate brake pressure for different surfaces and situations.
- Develop good body position: Learn to shift your weight for better control in various terrain. Keep your arms bent and relaxed. Grip the tank with your knees for better control. Shift your weight forward when climbing, backward when descending. In turns, weight the outside peg and lean your body into the turn.
- Start with easier trails: Build confidence on less challenging routes before tackling more difficult terrain. Begin with flat, wide trails and gradually progress to more challenging terrain. This builds confidence and skills progressively. Don’t rush into difficult trails before you’re ready.
- Ride with experienced riders: Join local adventure riding clubs or groups. Observe how experienced riders handle different situations. Don’t be afraid to ask for advice or tips. Having experienced riders around also improves safety if you encounter difficulties.
- Maintain your bike: Learn to perform basic maintenance like oil changes, air filter cleaning, and chain adjustment. Carry a basic tool kit and know how to use it. Learn to fix common trailside issues like flat tires or broken levers.
- Plan your rides: Research your route beforehand, including difficulty level and potential hazards. Bring appropriate gear, including extra water, snacks, and emergency supplies. Always let someone know where you’re going and when you expect to return.
Dual sport adventure rider training with Ike De Jager at Outback ATV Park, North Carolina.
One Response
Is there any courses planned for spring/summer of 2024 in NC?