Getting Started

Before you even think of throwing your leg over a bike you need to get kitted up with the right safety gear and top of your list needs to be an ACU-approved/BSI-standard crash helmet.

We also advise that you invest in a pair of boots designed for off-road use and a pair of gloves. Jeans and a long-sleeved top will also come in handy and can be substituted for cool-looking riding kit if you decide to take your new hobby a step further. If you’re planning on riding motocross or enduros you should also get your mitts on a pair of MX goggles. Click here

The controls

You’ve got your kit and you’ve got a bike to try it out on – the next step is to master the controls. Now’s a good time to get someone who’s experienced to explain basics like how to turn the petrol on, how to use the kill switch and how the throttle and brakes work. And if you’re riding a geared bike you’ll also need know all about the clutch and gear lever.

Doing it

You’re best bet is starting somewhere flat with lots of lovely wide open space. On an automatic bike it’s easy – all you need to do is slowly open the throttle and you’ll pull away. On a geared bike you need to balance opening the throttle with letting out the clutch which can, at first, be a tad tricky. Let the clutch out too quickly with not enough throttle and you’ll stall the engine, give it too much throttle and you’ll loop out. Keep trying and you’ll soon get the hang of it.

Practice

Now you’re moving you need to practice turning, using the brakes and riding over basic obstacles – a good tip here is to look where the bike’s going, not at your front wheel. Remember, the more you practice the better you’ll get!