How to balance on a dirt bike︱Cross Training Enduro

Summary

Improving balance is key to becoming a better dirt bike rider, as emphasized by Graham Jarvis. Cross-training at slower speeds enhances control and reduces energy expenditure. Beginners can start with low tire pressure for easier balancing and gradually increase it. Practice on level ground, focusing on clutch and throttle control, and body positioning to lower the center of gravity. Advanced riders can challenge themselves by balancing at a standstill, using the clutch for minor adjustments, and applying these skills in real-life scenarios. Incorporating balance exercises into daily life, like standing on one foot, can also refine one's sense of balance, which translates to better performance on the dirt bike.

Takeaways

• 🚴‍♂️ **Balance is Key**: Good balance is crucial for better riding and using less energy.
• 🏋️‍♂️ **Cross-Training**: Slowing down through cross-training helps in learning essential skills for speed and control.
• 🔧 **Start Slow**: Aim to balance at a standstill to develop control and energy-efficient riding.
• 🌿 **Terrain Adaptability**: Balance is especially important in tough and gnarly off-road conditions.
• 🛤️ **Low Tire Pressure**: Begin with lower tire pressure for easier balance, then gradually increase to normal.
• 🚦 **Straight Line Practice**: Practice riding slowly in a straight line to improve clutch and throttle control.
• 🤸‍♂️ **Body Positioning**: Keep your legs bent and apart to lower your center of gravity for better balance.
• 🏁 **Stop and Balance**: Practice stopping completely and balancing the bike without putting your feet down.
• 🔄 **Gyroscopic Force**: Keep the engine running for extra stability and use the clutch to help maintain balance.
• 🌊 **Advanced Challenges**: Once comfortable, try balancing on full lock with the front wheel straight for a 'Jedi Master' level challenge.
• 🌲 **Apply in Motion**: Use your balancing skills while moving, such as riding along logs, to enhance control.

Q & A

What is the main benefit of improving balance for dirt bike riders according to Graham Jarvis?

Improving balance makes you a better rider and allows you to use less energy to ride.

Why does cross-training slow down riders?

Cross-training slows riders down so they can learn essential skills before building up speed again.

What is the ideal balance level for dirt bike riders?

The ideal balance level is being able to balance at a standstill.

How does good balance help during tough and gnarly dirt riding?

Good balance provides more control, smoother riding with less energy needed, and less run-up required to tackle obstacles.

What tire pressure is recommended for beginners to practice balance?

For beginners, lower tire pressures are recommended, but eventually, they should increase to normal levels.

What is the suggested starting point for practicing balance on a dirt bike?

Start by riding in a straight line on level ground as slowly as possible.

What is the ideal finger positioning for cross-training on a dirt bike?

The ideal positioning is to keep one finger on the clutch lever and one on the front brake lever.

How does body positioning affect balance on a dirt bike?

Bent and apart legs lower the center of gravity, making it easier to move the body to counter the bike's movement.

What technique can be used to provide extra support while practicing balance on soft ground?

Digging the front wheel in a bit can provide extra support on soft ground.

How can the engine running help with balance while practicing on a dirt bike?

Keeping the engine running provides extra stability through gyroscopic force.

What advanced balancing challenge is suggested for riders who have mastered standing still on a dirt bike?

An advanced challenge is to balance at a standstill with the front wheel straight and without the bike on full lock.

How can practicing balance in everyday situations benefit dirt bike riders?

Practicing balance in everyday situations, like standing on one foot on public transport, can refine balance and be beneficial for cross-training.