Off Road Motorcycling
For many people, a motorcycle is practical everyday transport. But for others, the aim is to get away from the tarmac and simply enjoy the agility and fun of two wheels off road.
But if you’ve never tried riding off road, how to start? The good news is, there are lots of training centres that can get you going. And though it’s challenging, it’s no harder than learning to ski, for example.
Lois Pryce, who has ridden across continents on her trail bike, says dirt biking is now her “favourite thing”. She likes the fact you can get to places inaccessible by road, including the ancient byways of Britain. She has a few tips for beginners:
“Stand up on the footpegs” – you’ll see further ahead and control the motorcycle better. “Really bundle yourself up with armour. It gives you the confidence. And don’t be afraid of falling off.” Unlike riding on the road, falling off is “part of the experience” and, with the right protective gear, shouldn’t leave you with more than a few bruises.
Lois recommends you “keep up the speed, keep the momentum up”. In traffic it makes sense to keep the speed down and look out for hazards, to give yourself more time to react and more control. Riding up a steep slope, or across sand or gravel, that will leave you floundering. “What you really need to do is open the revs and go for it. Really, just try to fight the fear.”
Even experienced road riders will get a buzz from going off road. “It’s a fraction of the speed, and twice the exhilaration,” says Barry Johnson, of Yamaha’s Off-Road Experience.
More off road riding tips - http://www.geton.co.uk/content/road-riding-%E2%80%93-what%E2%80%99s-it-really
Mick Extance Honda Off Road Experience
BMW Off Road Skills
Wheeldon Suzuki Off-Road Centre
Chiltern Young Riders
Geoff Mayes Motocross try out