How to Ride a Dirt-Bike 101

Learning to ride a dirt bike can take quite a bit of practice. These machines have some very unique controls and, without a teacher there to guide you through the steps, can take quite a long time to master. Thankfully, we’ve written up the helpful article below to provide step-by-step instructions on how to start, stop, and accelerate on your new dirt bike.

Starting Your Dirt Bike

Learning how to start a dirt bike takes quite a bit of practice. There are a number of steps to go through and equipment can vary quite a bit from model to model. No matter what type of dirt bike you have, you’ll first need to engage your battery by turning your ignition key or flipping the on/off switch on your dirt bike. Once this is done, you’ll want to grab the clutch on your left handlebar and turn it all the way toward you, so you can begin pushing your gear shift pedal into the correct gear. Learning to do this will take some practice, so we advise starting your bike in first gear, which can be easily found by simply pushing your gear pedal down until it no longer shifts. Once your bike is in gear, you’ll want to flip out your kick starter and stomp on it with your foot till the dirt bike starts. Do not release the clutch at any point in this process, and feel free to turn your throttle a bit to help the engine start-up. If you have a start button rather than a kick starter you’re free to press it and take off once your bike is in gear.  

Taking Off

Before you drive off, be sure to give your dirt bike a minute or two to warm up by allowing it to idle. When you’re ready to move forward, slowly release your clutch and gently turn your throttle at the same time. Try to avoid overturning your throttle, as you’ll likely rocket forward on your dirt bike and scramble to adjust. Once you’re traveling at a faster speed, you may notice your engine getting louder or struggling to keep up. This is a sign you need to shift your gear pedal into a higher gear, and you’ll want to use your foot to lift the pedal as you drive. When you’re ready to stop, carefully release your throttle and use your footbrake to come to a gentle halt. 

While learning to ride a dirt bike you’re likely to fall, crash, and wipe out as you get used to your vehicle’s unique controls. Before you take your first ride, we strongly recommend purchasing some helpful safety gear to protect you from bumps, scrapes, and even broken bones as you get the hang of things. To find all of the gear required to safely ride a dirt bike, simply visit us here at Moroney's Motorsports in New Windsor, New York. We’ll be happy to help you find any dirt bike accessories you may be looking for, and we proudly serve the nearby city of Newburgh, New York.