Some professionals around these parts have mastered lots of aerial magnificence with their dirt bikes. That’s something you owe to hours of practice and honing your skills.
Are you still new to dirt biking and not quite at the level of nailing (and landing) awesome jumps on tracks and trails?
Don’t worry because you’ll get there. In the meantime, here are a few pointers on how to land them in one piece.
Start with the Right Equipment
Yes, you must have the proper bike for this activity. Select one with sufficient suspension before tackling tougher terrains, especially if you decide to jump with it. Since this requires good posture, be sure to get one with the right dimensions so you can reach the pedals and have a comfortable handlebar grip. Then, don’t forget to procure the right safety gear: helmet, chest protector, neck brace, jacket, pants, etc.
Visualize the Jump
This is somewhat like sizing up a free-throw shot in basketball; it helps to visualize it first. Get a feel for how high the jump will be, check for obstacles, and don’t bite off more than you can chew as a rookie. Most new dirt bike riders should target six-foot jumps.
Always Inspect and Do Test Runs
No matter how much experience you have, you should always begin by inspecting both the track/trail AND the bike itself. This means checking the tire pressure, making sure the brakes respond, and you’re getting proper suspension. Never attempt jumps totally cold.
Utilize Proper Posture and Positioning
Then, focus on proper riding posture: knees slightly bent, torso bent at a 45-degree angle, and keep the middle of your feet on the foot pegs. This is all done in a standing position, of course. As you get ready to jump, the trick is to squeeze the bike with your knees and calves for greater control during the launch.
Watch Your Speed Prior to Jumping
Once you approach the jump, the key is to build your speed gradually. If you go too fast heading into it, then the dirt bike will just pop a wheelie. It’s also possible to nosedive if you decrease the throttle too fast.
Practice Your Landing
Here’s perhaps the most obvious part: You’ll have to practice and master the art of landing. Your goal is to minimize wobbling or bouncing. The best strategy is land with both wheels, especially if you’re heading into a decline.
Do these six tips help at all? As usual, you can enjoy more in-depth coaching on everything related to dirt biking when you partner with one of our resident experts at our riding clinics. It’s the surest way to learn every basic element, then progress toward advanced tactics like jumping.
Colorado Dirtbike Info hopes you remain staff and never get discouraged while learning new tactics. If you’d like to learn more about dirt biking, nearby trails, clinics, race leagues, and more, then contact us anytime.
