Sports Radio Online

If you know people who enjoy riding dirt bikes, you may want to get in on the action yourself. The good news that is that anyone can learn to use and have fun with their dirt bike equipment. There are some things newbies should do to make sure they get the most out of the experience dirt biking. Here are a few:

1. Do not assume your dirt bike equipment is the same as on other vehicles. A good example of this is the clutch. If you drive a car, it is reasonable to assume a clutch on a car and the clutches on dirt bikes operate the same way. They do not. When you are just starting out, you will need to set aside time to practice using the clutch on a dirt bike. The good news is that after you spend some time learning how to use it. Then it will seem as easy as driving your car.
2. Get the right dirt bike equipment. There are two pieces of gear that you will use every time you ride. You need to spend some money on decent boots and a helmet. The latter can literally save your life if you are in an accident. You may think you are getting a “good deal” on cheap helmets or boots but those items will cost you more in the long-run. The reasons for splurging a bit on your helmet may seem clear but some people balk at getting better quality boots. As with many activities, the happier your feet are, the better your experience will be. You need to be able to feel the pedals. With cheap boots, there is often not enough flex and riders spend more time crashing. Who wants that? No one.
3. “If you can ride a bike, you can ride a dirt bike, right?” No. That is similar to “if you can dodge a wrench, you can dodge a ball.” Sure the saying sounds good but riding a dirt bike and riding a regular bike is very different. This matters in everything from how you sit to where you place your weight. When you are riding a regular bike, you can get away with keeping all of your weight on your butt. When you are new at using your dirt bike equipment, you need to change all of that. You need to sit more forward and use your knees to squeeze the dirt bike’s body. Your elbows need to be high up and away from your body.
4. Be careful with how you start out. Remember, you have to walk before you can run. People who are new to dirt bikes and dirt bike equipment should start by riding on dirt roads. When many people start off with their dirt bike, they want to start out at the same level their friends are at. This may sound like fun but can cut your riding career short. Instead of heading to hilly roads, single track areas, or other spots, begin your practice on an old dirt road. Look for roads that are flat, are clear of big rocks, and any other problems that may really be obstacles. Get on an easy road to get used to the dirt bike clutch, how to make wide turns, and work on your skills using the brakes. As you get better, you can work at going faster. As you improve you can do more but to avoid getting hurt, you need to focus on the basics of riding.

Most people around the world understand the great American love affair with cars. Many are not as aware of how many people in the United States love their dirt bike equipment, snowmobile equipment, and motorcycle equipment. In 2017, at least 472,000 motorcycles were sold across the nation. There are nearly 1.2 million snowmobiles registered in the U.S. alone. This industry contributes about $26 billion to the American economy every year.

All of this shows how much people all over the nation like to get out and ride, whether they do it in cars, trucks, snowmobiles, dirt bikes, or motorcycles. By starting slow, you can enjoy dirt bikes, too.