Dirt Bike Safety
Your dirt bike, also called an off-road motorcycle, is a powerful and versatile machine that can handle pretty much any type of terrain you want to ride. Whether you’re going on an off-roading adventure through the forest or riding a nature trail, you can do it in style on your off-road bike! It’ll take you where your average street motorcycle simply cannot go.
But riding off-road motorcycles does present some inherent risk. Not only are you riding a type of motorcycle, which is already somewhat dangerous, but you’re riding it on unpaved areas and uneven terrain. This increases your chance of skidding out or having an accident. Vigilance and caution are important traits to exercise when riding a dirt bike, but preparing yourself and your off-road bike for the ride are also necessary for the safety of yourself and anyone around you.
This guide to dirt bike safety comes to you courtesy of the staff here at Crossroad Powersports, serving Upper Darby. Pay us a visit if you still have questions about off-road motorcycling when you’re through reading!
Dress For A Crash
This might sound a bit extreme, but it’s sound advice nonetheless. When you equip yourself for riding off-road bikes, you’re actually preparing for the eventuality of a crash, not the ride itself. A helmet is your most essential piece of safety gear in this regard since hitting your head on a rock, a tree or your bike can produce injuries from a concussion to severe brain trauma or even death if you’re not protected.
A comfortable and well-fitting motocross or motorcycle helmet will work well for dirt bike riding. If your helmet doesn’t have a full-face shield, then you’ll also need to invest in a pair of snug-fitting goggles to protect your eyes from flying debris. Replace your helmet every five years or after any impact to it, no matter how minor!
Protect the rest of your body from road rash, sunburn and debris by wearing long sleeves and pants made of sturdy fabric. In hot weather, make sure your fabrics are breathable and lighter in weight to keep you cool. Wear riding gloves to improve your grip and protect your hands, and riding boots to reduce injury to your ankles and feet.
Stay Focused
Off-roading in and of itself is not really much like riding on a straight, flat stretch of highway. Changes in terrain and elevation occur often and the obstacles around you will also shift constantly. Make sure to only ride off-road motorcycles when it’s bright outside so you have good visibility. Remain vigilant at all times and ready to react to anything in your path, from another dirt bike to an animal or a rock or a tree.
Be Healthy
Never ride while tired, emotional or intoxicated by drugs or alcohol, including some prescription medications. If you’re in poor health, you also won’t be able to focus well. Stay hydrated by wearing a hydration backpack or stopping to drink water every so often, and bring snacks to keep you focused and replenish electrolytes lost via sweat. Hunger or dehydration can make you dizzy and distracted, so do your best to combat these issues! Take frequent breaks when it’s hot outside so you don’t suffer from heatstroke.
By wearing the right gear and taking precautions, you can minimize the risks presented when riding off-road bikes. Still don’t have the ride you desire? Visit our dealership in Upper Darby today to tour our selection of new and used dirt bikes for sale. Crossroad Powersports welcomes all our customers coming from the cities of Philadelphia, PA, and Wilmington, DE.