Ride A Dirt Bike Safely

By: Daniel Khalil

Break Studios Contributing Writer

Being the fun sport that off-road cycling is, it is important to know how to ride a dirt bike safely. The dirt bike has its origins with the original motorcycles created by Michaux and Company in late nineteenth century France. The original dirt bike created by Soichiro Honda in his Los Angeles workshop also can't be forgotten. That aside, let's get to the safety of the dirt bike, shall we?

In order to ride a dirt bike safely, you will need:

  • Dirt bike
  • Helmet
  • Friend
  1. Put your headgear on. Rule number one: always keep your helmet on no matter what. You can't ride a dirt bike safely without your headgear on, but you can ride it foolishly like so. Ask your local retailer about correct sizing.
  2. Get comfortable. Look around, look at the pedal below you, and the handles right next to you. Relax, and find your proper positioning in the seat. If the bike is the correct size, your feet will be able to touch the ground.
  3. Learn to accelerate gently. The accelerator pedal will jerk you back if you're not careful. Sit forward on the dirt bike to avoid this. You should get acquainted, at least for a half hour, with the power of the accelerator and how the dirt bike will respond when stimulated.
  4. Acquaint yourself with the brake pad. Like accelerator pushes you backwards, the brake pushes you forward. This will also be another great time to adjust your seating. Don't lock up your brakes by slamming down on the pad; dirt bikes aren't like cars, they don't possess the complex infrastructure capable of ABS (Anti-lock Break Systems).
  5. Take professional lessons. These tips on your new dirt bike will only go so far. A hands-on, in-depth approach towards dirt bike safety is crucial prior to unsupervised runs. Hopefully until now you have been overseen by an experienced friend, but his/her advice won't be able to cover advanced techniques.

Although a dirt bike is expressly designed for off-road riding, it's important to begin the baby steps on concrete. With the right equipment, advice, and bike you can ride a dirt bike safely in no time at all. Ride smooth, and don't forget that helmet buddy!

Posted on: Feb. 17, 2011