Getting started with dirt bike riding can seem like an overwhelming task if you don’t know where to start. You need to be prepared as you purchase and learn to ride your first bike.
Learn All You Can
If you want to start riding dirt bikes, chances are you already have friends who do so. Friends can provide a wealth of information, so ask as many questions as you can. They can tell you about the overall experience, recommend dealers and mechanics, and help teach you the basics.
You can also find tons of information online to help answer any questions you might have. Before you ever buy a bike you should have some idea of what type you are looking for, what a reasonable price range is, and what to look for to indicate its quality.
Finding the Right Bike
Buying your first dirt bike is a big investment, so take your time. You have the option of buying new or used, and you can purchase from a dealership or an independent seller. Websites like Craigslist can help you find used bikes if you want to buy it from an individual, and you can get a great price.
It can be risky to buy a used dirt bike, especially if you do not know the seller, and if you do not know a lot about bike mechanics. If you can, take an experienced friend or mechanic with you, or ask if you can take the dirt bike to your mechanic before making the purchase.
Learn to Ride
Friends that are experienced riders can be a great resource to learn how to ride a dirt bike, or you can take a riding course. A riding course will be more thorough and is typically the best option for an absolute beginner, but if you already have a knowledge of dirt bikes or motorcycles, you many not need quite as much help.
Before you ever get on the dirt bike, you will want to make sure that you have the proper safety gear. You will want at a minimum a helmet, boots, and gloves, and you may also want a padded jacket and riding pants. You will want to get used to the feeling of accelerating and braking in a controlled area before ever heading out.
Meet Other Riders
The more people you know who ride dirt bikes, the better. You not only can learn from other riders, but becoming a part of the dirt biking community will help fuel your passion and make it a lifelong hobby.
Your local motocross track is a great place to meet other riders, or you can find a local AMA-sanctioned event. Forums and online communities can also help you network locally or nationally.
Whether you want to ride motocross or open trails, you need to get started somewhere. The more you know about dirt bikes, the more prepared you will be to purchase your first bike and learn to ride, so ask questions and always keep an eye out for more resources.
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