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Dirt bikes have become a popular speed sporting activity for all ages. Whether you live in Virginia or in another neighboring state, there are plenty of opportunities for fun and adventure for riders who are new to the sport. 

The non-highway use of off-road motorcycles is widespread as most riders plan to spend much of their time riding away from public roads. Instead, riders may enjoy riding on trails, dirt tracks, or even beaches where the terrain can vary tremendously from flat to hilly with plenty of obstacles to get around along the way.

Learning to ride a dirt bike can be an incredible experience. The freedom and thrill of riding your first dirt bike is an exhilaration you really cannot get with any other vehicle. Thankfully, dirt bikes are not as expensive as they used to be, and with some basic maintenance skills, anyone can learn to ride a dirt bike. It is pretty easy to learn how to ride your first dirt bike. Get started with Valley Cycle Center, Winchester's favorite dirt bike store. 

Choosing Your First Dirt Bike

Choosing your Dirt Bike for sale in Winchester is the most crucial step in learning to ride a dirt bike. The right bike will make it easier to learn, be more enjoyable and make you want to keep riding. Buy the best bike you can afford within your budget, and don't buy "too much bike" for your skill level.

Buying a too powerful bike for your skill level can be dangerous and will cause you to get discouraged with the sport. We can help you get into an appropriate cycle for your skill level, regardless of whether the rider is eight years old or 80 years old!

The first thing to do is take stock of your situation:

• How tall are you?
• What is your physical condition?
• How much experience do you have riding motorcycles in general?
• Do you have any friends or family that ride motorcycles? What are they riding, and do they have more than one bike?
• How much money do you have to spend on your new hobby/obsession?
• What size bike should you get?
• What kind of riding are you looking to do?

Learning to Ride Your Dirt Bike in Virginia

The first thing that you need to know about learning to ride your dirt bike is that it will not be easy, and it takes a lot of work and practice before you're able to control your bike fully. However, with patience and perseverance, you'll be able to master the art of dirt biking.

Here are some helpful tips for you:

Proper Gear
Before learning, make sure you have all the proper safety gear. Consider investing in a full-face helmet and goggles, motocross boots, and gloves. Dirt bikes are mighty machines, so wearing the right gear will help protect you from injury if you fall off or crash. Your favorite dirt bike dealers in Virginia can help you choose the exact gear you’ll need to get started. 

Manual or Automatic Transmission
Start by turning the bike on. Keep in mind that most dirt bikes are manual transmissions. This means that you'll have to shift gears manually when changing speeds. If your bike has an automatic transmission, then you'll be able to change gears without using a clutch lever.

Foot on Ground/Hands-on Handlebars
While sitting on the bike, put one foot on the ground and the other on the kickstart lever. Make sure that your foot is firmly pressed against the ground, or else you might end up getting injured while riding. You should also keep both hands on the handlebars at all times. Now push down on the kickstart lever with your foot until it clicks into place. This will engage the engine and get it ready for use. 

Find a Riding Area
The best place to learn is on flat ground, away from traffic and other people. If there's no dirt or grass nearby, try learning in a large parking lot. Steer clear of hills until you're more confident on the bike — they can be dangerous for beginners!

Proper Stance and Weight Distribution
When mounting your dirt bike, be sure that you are on the balls of your feet. Your knees should be bent slightly for balance, and the grip on the pegs should be loose but firm enough to allow for quick maneuvering of your feet when needed. 

Head Over To Valley Cycle Center To Get Started

There is a reason riders across the country choose Valley Cycle Center. We are one of the largest dirt bike shops in Virginia. Whether you are picking up your first motorcycle or looking to trade up — Valley Cycle Center has the right bike for you. We offer a full line of services, a wide selection of equipment and accessories, and an experienced crew ready to help you make the right purchase decision.

Stop by our showroom today to see our complete dirt bike selection.