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Use Your Head....But Make Sure You Have A Helmet On!Jul 02 '00 Write an essay on this topic.One of my favorite past-times is riding dirt bikes. I have owned some type of off road motorcycle for the past 27 years of my life. The first being a mini bike and the last a 200X Honda 3-wheeler. Dirt bike riding can provide a wide range of pleasure andadrenaline all at the same time. The deserts are full of beautiful scenery that you can enjoy while riding or if you prefer, there are trails, hills and dunes that you can conquer. There are even those who ride in the snow or mountains which provides a whole different challenge and sights. But no matter what your preference is, there are things you need to know to keep yourself safe and in one piece, so that you can continue to enjoy the sport of ATV riding. It is always a good idea to know the vehicle that you are riding from top to bottom. Get a feel for it. Start out slow and get an idea of how much power you have under you. Some bikes will pull a wheelie in second or third gear if you are not careful and if you aren't expecting that to happen you could accidentally pull it backwards on top of yourself. Not a fun way to start your day! When I first got my three wheeler, I spent of my first trip out learning balance and handling. I would tip the bike up on two wheels and ride like that so that if I got into a situation where that might happen I would know how to handle it and keep everything under control. I also practiced turning and using my body to help control the turns. After a few times out and practicing these techniques I was able to speed things up and try racing around an oval track. Something else that I learned and find to be really important is that when you are riding in the desert the terrain all starts to look the same after a few hours. If possible, pick some landmarks so you can find your way back to camp. I recommend riding with a partner if possible too. If you don't choose to but you have other's in your group, let them know that you are taking off and when you expect to be back so someone will be aware incase you don't return. I have been on a few searches for lost people and it can be quite a scary experience. Make sure you have enough gas to get you to where you want to go and back. Or bring extra fuel with you if possible. I also carried tie-down straps with me all the time incase I got stuck or needed to help someone else I could use them to tow other bikes. It is a good idea to carry patch stuff for your tires and a few tools also. There are a lot of things on the trails that can cause a flat and I have discovered that you usually don't get them when you are close to camp. Another thing that I think is very important is not to try doing things that you are not familiar or comfortable with. If a hill seems too steep for you and you don't feel ready to try it out yet......don't. If you aren't ready to take that weightless jump through the air.....don't. I found out the hard way that pushing myself beyond my skill usually ended with me flat on the ground, luckily with no broken bones. ;o) The most important thing that I feel I can say to anyone who might be considering taking this sport up, is to wear a helmet at all times!!! I have also found that during my spills, the first thing to hit the ground was my head. Thank goodness I always had a helmet on! Other things that are good to wear for safety would be boots of some sort. (I had motocross boots). Pants or leathers, a long sleeve shirt or motorcycle jersey, goggles and gloves. All of these things will protect your skin and body from debris and bushes along the trails. You can also wear leg and chest protectors if you choose. Oh yes, and a kidney belt is a good thing also. In closing, I want to add that you should not drink and ride just as you should not drink and drive. And don't let your friends ride drunk! Just like a car, you need to have your "wits" about you when you are riding an ATV. They are fun but they can also be dangerous. I hope that these tips will help you have a safe time if you decide to give it a try. Thanks for reading.....:0)  |
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