Rock gardens and dry streambeds are often challenging, but they don’t have to be. Of course, the size of the rocks makes all the difference.
SCOPE IT OUT First, stop and check out the section and your line. Pay particular attention to your entry and exit points.
KNOW YOUR LIMITS Be aware of your bike’s ground clearance. If you get halfway and high-center on a rock, you’ll be stopped cold. But if you know your machine has good clearance, you won’t have to pass up an easy line due to a big rock.
STICK TO THE BASICS Pay attention to throttle control, balanced body position over the footpegs, and directing the bike where you want to go. Stand up in a neutral position with your knees bent and your chin up, looking at your exit. Keep the balls of your feet on the pegs. Keep your momentum up, and stay on the gas.
GET UNSTUCK If you do get stuck, try rolling the bike back as far as you can. Doing so lets you get your feet back on the pegs and regain your momentum for your next attempt. If you fall over, don't put your hand out to cushion your fall—it’s a great way to break a wrist or a shoulder. If you know you’re headed for a rocky section, you’ll probably want to run higher air pressure in your tires to avoid pinch flats or bending a rim.
Rock gardens and dry streambeds are often challenging, but they don’t have to be. Of course, the size of the rocks makes all the difference.
SCOPE IT OUT First, stop and check out the section and your line. Pay particular attention to your entry and exit points.
KNOW YOUR LIMITS Be aware of your bike’s ground clearance. If you get halfway and high-center on a rock, you’ll be stopped cold. But if you know your machine has good clearance, you won’t have to pass up an easy line due to a big rock.
STICK TO THE BASICS Pay attention to throttle control, balanced body position over the footpegs, and directing the bike where you want to go. Stand up in a neutral position with your knees bent and your chin up, looking at your exit. Keep the balls of your feet on the pegs. Keep your momentum up, and stay on the gas.
GET UNSTUCK If you do get stuck, try rolling the bike back as far as you can. Doing so lets you get your feet back on the pegs and regain your momentum for your next attempt. If you fall over, don't put your hand out to cushion your fall—it’s a great way to break a wrist or a shoulder. If you know you’re headed for a rocky section, you’ll probably want to run higher air pressure in your tires to avoid pinch flats or bending a rim.