Crush Off-Road Adventure Bike Riding
Tips to Crush Off-Road Adventures on Your ADV Bike
Tearing up the dirt on a robust adventure motorcycle like the Ducati Multistrada or the Triumph Tiger 1200 is undeniably exhilarating. If you’re nodding in agreement, you’re in the right place.
But here’s the deal: if you’re going to dive into off-road riding, it’s worth doing it right. We’re talking about mastering the art of off-road adventures, especially if you’re handling a big ADV or dual-sport machine.
To set you on the path to off-road greatness, we’ve compiled a list of 10 essential riding tips. These nuggets of wisdom will help you feel more at ease handling bikes like the Tiger or Multistrada when you're off the beaten track.
Gear Up for Adventure
Let’s start with the basics: having the right gear is non-negotiable. Comfort is key here. Ill-fitting accessories equals distractions, and distractions lead to mistakes – something you want to avoid when you’re ripping through the wilderness.
Make sure your adventure bike riding gear fits snugly both when you’re seated and when you’re standing. And don’t underestimate the importance of comfortable pants; these adventure accessories are your lifeline when you're navigating tricky terrain. We recommend the Dririder Vortex Adventure 2 Pants. Engineered with waist and leg adjusters, these pants offer an optimal fit tailored to your body shape. Crafted from heavy-duty polyester with a robust 900D outer shell and reinforced with a double layer of 1200D fabric at the knees, these pants provide enhanced protection during your rides.
For added safety, the CE approved armour in the knees is height adjustable to accommodate your preferences and riding style. Plus, with a safety stitch system, these pants are designed for easy wear and removal, ensuring convenience without compromising on safety.
Safety in Numbers
Here’s a no-brainer: don’t venture off alone if you can help it. Imagine being stranded in the middle of nowhere with nobody around to lend a hand – not a situation you want to find yourself in.
Bringing a buddy along not only enhances the fun factor but also ensures there’s someone to watch your back in case things go south. Trust us, a heavy bike (like most adventure bikes are), can quickly turn into a liability if you find yourself in a sticky situation solo. To stay connected with other riders, have a good comms system, like the UNIT MODEL # FROM THE Cardo range.
Rise to the Occasion
Standing up while riding off-road isn’t just a suggestion; it’s a game-changer. By shifting your weight to your feet, you gain better control over your ADV machine, allowing you to tackle diverse terrain with confidence. This confidence comes in the way of grippy adventure boots, and a bit of practice.
Standing also improves your visibility, giving you ample time to anticipate and react to obstacles ahead. Just remember to keep those knees bent and your grip relaxed – tense muscles are a recipe for disaster.
Customise Your Controls
Don’t overlook the importance of personalised controls. Adjustable levers are your best friend here, allowing you to fine-tune your setup for maximum comfort and efficiency.
Position your levers within easy reach, ensuring seamless operation when you’re in the heat of the moment. And don’t forget to cover those levers with your fingers – a split-second delay could mean the difference between a close call and a catastrophe.
Master the Art of Turning
Turning your Adventure bike off-road is a skill worth honing. Proper technique is paramount whether you’re navigating a gentle curve or tackling a tight corner.
Start by leaning your body in the direction of the turn while keeping your weight balanced over the bike. Maintain a relaxed posture, allowing the bike’s tyres to find traction naturally. And remember, practice makes perfect – don’t be discouraged by the occasional spill.
Embrace the Brakes
Contrary to popular belief, your front brake is your ally, even in the dirt. Mastering brake control is essential for navigating tricky terrain and coming to a swift stop when the need arises.
Experiment with braking techniques, gradually pushing your limits to discover the optimal balance between front and rear braking power. And don’t shy away from threshold braking – it’s a valuable skill that could save your hide in a pinch.
Eyes on the Prize
Where you look is where you’ll go – it’s as simple as that. Keep your gaze fixed on your intended path, allowing your instincts to guide you through the twists and turns of off-road terrain.
Avoid fixating on obstacles; instead, maintain a fluid scanning motion, taking in your surroundings and planning your next move accordingly. Remember, your eyes are your most powerful tool on the trail.
Conquer Sand with Finesse
Sand riding can be daunting, especially on a hefty adventure bike. The key here is to keep your front tyre light, allowing it to skim effortlessly over the soft surface.
Shift your weight backward, maintain a firm grip on the throttle, and keep those knees bent. And if you encounter a water crossing, follow in the tracks of those who came before you – safety in numbers, right?
Rise to New Heights with Wheelies
Wheelies aren’t just for show; they’re a valuable off-road skill that can help you conquer obstacles with ease. Whether you opt for a power wheelie or a clutch-up, mastering this technique will take your riding to new heights.
Start small and work your way up, gradually building confidence and skills. And remember, practice makes perfect – embrace the occasional tumble as part of the learning process.
Safety Gear Will Help You To Embrace The Spills.
Helmet: The Shoei HORNET ADV helmet the ultimate multi-purpose helmet for sport riding. It brings together the strength and functionality needed for off-road riding and the style and comfort essential for cruising on the road. It’s all about achieving sporty riding on any terrain.
From the newly developed V-460 visor ideal for cross-country rides to the aerodynamic and ventilation features necessary for road riding, Shoei have fine-tuned every detail without compromise.
Protective Gear: When it comes to riding, safety is paramount. That's why body armour is a must-have for every rider. Whether you're hitting the trails for the first time or you're a seasoned pro, we've got you covered with a diverse selection of body jackets and chest armour. And the best part? Our gear is designed to keep you safe without breaking the bank.
Neck braces are another critical piece of protective gear that shouldn't be overlooked. No matter your skill level, spinal injuries are a real risk. Our range of neck braces offers essential support, helping to reduce the chance of injury during high-speed rides.
Elbow guards are essential for preventing painful scrapes and bruises. Don't let a fall or collision ruin your day – invest in durable elbow guards that can handle the demands of off-road riding.
Protecting your knees is non-negotiable. That's where knee braces come in. While they may require a bit of upfront investment, the long-term benefits are priceless. Trust in our selection of knee braces to keep you riding safely for years to come.
And let's not forget about your lower back. Kidney belts provide the support and stability you need to combat fatigue during those long rides.
Practice Makes Perfect
Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is mastering off-road adventure bikes. Take it one step at a time, gradually incorporating these tips into your riding gamut.
Expect a few bumps along the way – both literal and metaphorical – but don’t let them deter you. With perseverance and dedication, you’ll soon find yourself tackling off-road challenges with confidence and finesse.
So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and dominate the dirt on your trusty adventure bike!