Safely Riding Your Dirt Bike
No one can deny that riding a dirt bike, otherwise known as an off-road motorcycle, is an exciting and fun way to spend an afternoon. You can tackle twisting, turning trails and explore nature while also getting in some thrills.
However, riding a dirt bike requires riding on rough terrain instead of paved roads, and that can put you in some danger if you’re not careful. Fortunately, there are several things you can do as an off-road bike rider to increase your safety and prevent an accident.
Wear the Right Gear
It’s important to wear some safety equipment while riding a dirt bike to protect yourself in the event of a slide-out or crash. Obviously, no one likes to think of these things happening, but you do have to factor them into your ride.
The most crucial piece of gear you need is a well-fitting helmet that is designed for off-road riding. The helmet should be comfortable so that you’re likely to wear it, and it should be DOT-rated. You also need to protect your eyes with a pair of goggles, if your helmet lacks a full face mask.
Your clothing should be able to protect you from road rash, so a riding jacket and long pants made of a sturdy material are best. To this ensemble, you can add a pair of riding gloves to improve your grip and a pair of riding boots with good tread.
Know Your Limits
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced dirt bike rider, you should always know your limits and stay within them. If you’re relatively new to riding, your first rides should probably take place on flat, easy trails without obstacles. As you increase in skill and confidence, you can visit more intense riding areas. Experienced riders also need to be mindful of their endurance and what obstacles may be too challenging for them to conquer.
Minimize Your Risks
Just because riding off-road motorcycles is kind of risky doesn’t mean that you have to increase the amount of risk at every turn. Avoid riding your dirt bike in inclement weather, as the slippery conditions and reduced visibility can increase your chances of crashing. Also, don’t use recreational drugs or alcohol before your ride, since these substances will reduce your risk awareness and slow your reaction times. Finally, avoid riding on paved roads because your dirt bike just isn’t designed for it.
When you’re ready to check out some great new and used dirt bikes for sale, visit our dealership in Franklin, TN. We’ve got a great selection of off-road motorcycles to suit your unique riding needs. Cool Springs Powersports serves our Tennessee customers in greater Nashville, as well as the cities of Spring Hill and Columbia.