Trail Riding - Motorcycle Edition
Trail riding has become an increasingly popular aspect of motorcycle culture, both on the Oregon Coast and around the world. It offers a chance to reconnect with nature, race through a diverse range of terrain, and create lasting memories.
Integrated storage compartments and tool mounts improve the riding experience and aid riders who run into issues on the trail.
A Beginner's Guide to Trail Riding
If you're new to trail riding, here are a few key points you should keep in mind. First and foremost: always ride with someone familiar, especially if going somewhere new; this will keep you safe as an extra pair of eyes could help should something go amiss on the trail. Also consider carrying your cell phone and map just in case an emergency arises while out and about.
Be vigilant in scanning the trail ahead, constantly looking out for potential obstacles that may lie in your way. Staring directly at an obstacle almost guarantees that it will obstruct your way - to avoid this happening, focus on 5m ahead and use peripheral vision to spot potential dangers. Finally, bring a helmet and protective gear. A high-quality bike helmet combined with gloves will protect you from being scratched by sticks or branches as well as protecting your head in case you crash your bike!
Are You New to Trail Riding and Would Like to Discover It More? Consider Joining Your Local Mountain Biking Club or Signing up for an Estate Ride at a Horse Stable as a Great Way! These rides can accommodate riders of all ages and skill levels and serve as a fantastic introduction into trail riding - usually including an experienced guide who can teach the fundamentals. Plus they provide a fantastic opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals who share your enthusiasm for being outdoors as well as trail riding!
Choosing a Motorcycle
As part of your initial preparation to purchase a motorcycle for trail-riding, the first step should be identifying your riding preferences. This will enable you to select an ideal bike and equipment package. When thinking about this decision, ask yourself which form and features are most relevant based on how it will be used - will it mainly be for weekend off-road adventures, daily commuting, or long-distance touring? These questions will ultimately guide what type of motorcycle should be purchased.
For off-road adventures, a dirt bike or a dual-sport bike will do. A dirt bike is specifically designed for off-road riding and is lightweight, has long suspension travel, and high ground clearance. On the other hand, a dual-sport bike is a street-legal motorcycle that can also be ridden off-road and comes equipped with features such as lights, mirrors, and turn signals.
If you're planning to use your motorcycle for daily commuting, consider getting a dual-sport bike or an adventure bike. These bikes are comfortable and versatile, making them suitable for both on and off-road riding. Adventure bikes also come with larger fuel tanks, which means you can travel longer distances without running out of gas.
For long-distance touring, a touring bike is the best option. These motorcycles are designed for comfort and have features such as windshields, fairings, and large fuel tanks. They also come with luggage compartments, making them suitable for carrying all your gear on long trips.
No matter which motorcycle you select, be sure to conduct a proper test ride. Any bike that proves uncomfortable during its short initial test ride will cause further issues once in use. Ride around different terrains and test the brakes and gears carefully, too.
Keep the size and style of the bike frame in mind before buying it. If unsure, seek assistance at L&D Race Tech or your local motorcycle dealer; many even allow renting so that you can see if the bike fits and feels right before making a commitment to buying.
Getting Started
Mountain biking is a great way to explore nature and get a good workout while enjoying the scenery. Unlike road cycling, which is typically done on paved surfaces and focuses on speed and competition, mountain biking involves cycling on trails, bridle paths, and forest roads that are not regularly used by motorized vehicles.
If you're new to mountain biking, joining a local mountain bike group that hosts meetings or ride-outs regularly can be a great way to get started. Members of these groups can provide advice on bikes and routes, and offer tips on technique and safety. Reading online forums and attending clinics or classes can also be helpful in expanding your knowledge of the sport.
Remember, safety should always be a top priority when mountain biking. Always wear a helmet and appropriate safety gear, and be aware of your surroundings at all times. With the right preparation, equipment and mindset, you can enjoy the thrill and excitement of mountain biking while staying safe and having fun.
For those interested in mountain biking, it's important to start with the basics and work your way up to more advanced equipment. A full-suspension bike is an excellent option for experienced riders looking to tackle more challenging terrain. With a front fork and rear shock suspension, it can absorb impact from rough trails more comfortably and help you tackle steep hills and narrow ravines more effectively. However, keep in mind that they may be more expensive than a hardtail bike.
If you are new to mountain biking, it's best to start off on easier trails until you have built confidence and skills. You should assess each trail section carefully with regard to risk and reward and avoid trying a feature that exceeds your skill level. Gradually build your skills by practicing on different terrains and obstacles. This will help you become a better rider and enjoy the sport more.
When you feel that you are ready to advance, it's recommended that you observe experienced riders as they navigate each section of the trail. This will give you a better sense of the terrain and any potential consequences of crashing. You can also learn from their techniques and get tips on how to improve your riding skills. Additionally, it's a great opportunity to meet other trail riders for future rides and build a community.
Finally, always wear a helmet and invest in sturdy boots. Mountain biking can be dangerous, and it's essential to have protective gear to ensure your safety. A helmet can prevent head injuries, while sturdy boots can provide better grip and support on the pedals. Remember, safety always comes first!
Safety First
Biking enthusiasts love the challenge of difficult trails, but it's important to remember that not all trails are created equal. A rider's skill level and experience should be carefully considered before embarking on a difficult trail. What may seem easy for experienced riders could prove to be a dangerous challenge for novice riders.
To ensure that everyone stays safe while on the trail, it's important to establish clear safety protocols. Communication between riders is key, so it's important to choose a leader, assign a tail rider, and create hand and foot signals that allow for efficient and clear communication. These signals should indicate when riders need to slow down, stop, turn, or point out hazards.
It's also critical to maintain a safe distance between riders and groups and to carry a basic first aid kit with instructions. This kit should include items such as bandages, antiseptic, and pain relievers, and it should be easily accessible in the event of an emergency. By following these guidelines, bikers can enjoy a challenging ride while minimizing the risk of injury.
Scanning the Terrain: To avoid unexpected obstacles and mishaps while riding, it's important to constantly scan the terrain, anticipate surface changes, and plan a strategy for attacking any challenges. By taking this proactive approach, riders can increase their chances of overcoming obstacles and reduce the likelihood of chain-reaction mishaps occurring.
Foot Positioning: To make traversing obstacles easier while riding, it's essential to maintain an athletic and responsive stance. One effective way to do this is to keep your feet slightly off the ground, as it can help absorb impact and reduce your chances of rolling over in case of an accident.
Overtaking Etiquette: When overtaking within a group of vehicles, it is important for the overtaking driver to exercise caution and overtake from the left side while clearly indicating their intention to do so. Additionally, it is crucial for all other drivers in the group to maintain a safe following distance to prevent any chain-reaction accidents. By keeping a safe distance, drivers can avoid sudden braking or swerving that may lead to mishaps and endanger everyone on the road.
Leave No Trace: Maintaining an ethical trail ethic is an important aspect of appreciating nature. It requires us to minimize noise pollution, stick to designated paths, and avoid littering. By following these guidelines, we can ensure that our impact on the environment is minimal and that we can continue to enjoy the beauty of nature for years to come.
Trail riding is a thrilling outdoor activity that can be enhanced by adopting mindfulness and zen principles. By embracing a mindset that emphasizes the importance of being present in the moment, riders can create a harmonious balance between themselves, their bikes, and the natural environment. This approach instills an innate sense of responsibility and safety into the riding experience, reminding riders of the importance of respecting the trails, the environment, and other riders. With a focus on mindfulness and zen principles, trail riding can become a more fulfilling experience that nourishes the mind, body, and soul.