Quad biking is a thrilling and adventurous sport that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, mastering these techniques will take your quad biking to the next level and help you make the most of your time on the trails.
In this article, we’ll be discussing some lesser-known techniques that will help you navigate challenging terrain and master your quad.
1. Off-Roading 101
Off-roading is a type of quad biking that takes place on unpaved and rugged terrain. Unlike regular quad biking, off-roading requires a different set of skills and a different type of quad.
Preparing your quad for off-roading
- Tires: Off-road tires have more aggressive tread patterns and are designed to provide better traction on rough terrain.
- Suspension: A good suspension system is essential for off-roading as it helps to absorb the impact of rough terrain and provides better control.
- Gear: A helmet, goggles, and gloves are essential for off-roading as they provide protection in case of an accident.
Checking the weather forecast
- Weather can have a big impact on off-roading. It’s important to check the forecast before you set out and to be prepared for any changes in the weather.
- Rain, snow, and mud can make off-roading more difficult and dangerous.
- Be prepared with the right gear, such as rain gear and warm clothing.
2. Hill Climbing and Descending
Hills can be some of the most challenging terrains to navigate on a quad. Climbing steep inclines requires a lot of power and control while descending steep hills can be just as dangerous if you’re not careful.
Climbing Hills
- Shift your weight forward: This helps to distribute the weight of the quad more evenly and provides better traction.
- Keep your eyes focused on the top of the hill: This will help you to maintain your line and to avoid obstacles.
- Use the throttle wisely: The right amount of throttle will help you to maintain control and to climb the hill safely.
Descending Hills
- Shift your weight back: This helps to distribute the weight of the quad more evenly and provides better traction.
- Keep your eyes focused on the bottom of the hill: This will help you to maintain your line and to avoid obstacles.
- Use the brakes wisely: The right amount of braking will help you to maintain control and to descend the hill safely.
3. Jumping and Airborne Techniques
Jumping and manoeuvring your quad in mid-air can be a lot of fun, but it’s also important to do it safely.
Approaching the jump
- Approach the jump at the right speed and angle: The right speed and angle will help you to achieve the maximum distance and to land safely.
- Look ahead: Keep your eyes focused on the landing spot to help you to maintain your line and to avoid obstacles.
In the air
- Keep your weight centered: This will help you to maintain balance and control in the air.
- Use the handlebars: Use the handlebars to adjust your trajectory and control the direction of your quad.
Landing:
- Look ahead: Keep your eyes focused on the landing spot to help you to maintain your line and to avoid obstacles.
- Absorb the impact: Use your legs to absorb the impact of the landing and to keep the quad stable.
- Roll out: Roll out of the landing to help dissipate the remaining energy and to prevent bottoming out.
4. Tight Turns and Manoeuvres
Being able to make tight turns and manoeuvres is essential for navigating challenging terrain and avoiding obstacles. This ability allows for more precise and efficient movement, allowing the individual to navigate through narrow spaces.
Countersteering:
- Countersteering is a technique that allows you to make tight turns and manoeuvres more easily.
- To countersteer, push the left handlebar forward to make a left turn, or push the right handlebar forward to make a right turn.
- Countersteering allows you to make tighter turns and avoid obstacles more easily.
Body Position:
- Your body position plays an important role in your ability to make tight turns and manoeuvres.
- Keep your body centered over the quad and use your legs to absorb the forces of the turn.
- Use your arms to grip the handlebars and steer the quad.
5. Trail Riding Techniques
Trail riding is a type of quad biking that takes place on established trails. Trail riding requires a different set of skills and a different type of quad than off-roading.
Trail riding basics
Trail riding is an activity that focuses on having fun and enjoying the natural scenery. It is typically done on more established and groomed trails, which means a different type of quad is required when compared to off-roading.
Trail riding also requires a different set of skills, such as the ability to navigate tight turns and avoid obstacles, in order to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Trail riding tips
- Stay on the trail: Follow the trail markers and stay on the established trails to avoid getting lost or causing damage to the environment.
- Respect other trail users: Be aware of other trail users and give them the right of way.
- Enjoy the scenery: Take in the sights and sounds of nature and have fun.
Quad biking is a thrilling and adventurous sport that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels with activities from a company like Xsite Leisure. With the right techniques and skills, you can take your quad biking to the next level and make the most of your time on the trails.
