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I'll take it a little farther. I have been riding bikes a long time, mostly off road, I sit as much as I can, even when I was younger and racing Enduro and Motocross. The only time you "need" to stand is when you need your legs for suspension or for weight transfer. Keep looking ahead so you see obstacles and you can stand when needed.
I learned to ride a motorcycle in the dunes, and so many people feel that riding in deep, loose sand is difficult or sketchy. For me, it was all I knew and I spent years riding at Glamis, so riding dunes or in a sand wash is my comfort zone. When I get onto hard pack, I feel like I am on ice. The bike feels slick beneath me and turning always feels like the front end is going to push out from under my imputs, while in the dunes, I felt like I was carving a slot in the earth... much more comfortable. With that in mind, unless you are in some whoops or transitioning from one dune to another, I spent most of my time with my butt planted on the seat. I recently picked up a couple TW200s for me and my 15 year old son to ride and in Arizona it is mostly hard pack, so I have really focused on standing more, pressing my weight into the pegs and keeping my weight forward. Mr. Dork's description of when and why to stand makes more sense to me than any other person's advice I've heard over the years. And regarding rest, it's rare to dune ride for hours on end. It's usually a hot rip for 45 minutes followed by an hour parked at the bottom of Oldsmobile. On trails, we have ridden continuously for 2-3 hours straight, sometimes up to 8 hours in a day, and man does that drain you even if it is flat fire roads. That slippery sensation seems to have my entire body under constant tension and my mind constantly focused, which zaps my energy. Great video and great information... thanks for sharing, sir.
Nice video, and really welcome. As I was told by some others who are good riders: 'sit when you can, stand when you have to'. Which is the rule I ride by.
Good video. There’s no fast and hard rule for every rider. We’re all different; different size, different bikes, different skill level, different terrain. I sit while riding on flat compacted gravel roads and only stand up for ruts, hills, or loose gravel.
I appreciate the new direction your channel has taken! For someone like me, who is new to adventure riding, these videos are really useful. Please keep 'em coming! :)
100% agree you should not stand all the time, that you should not fatigue yourself. When on a trip or an adventure. A great way to not get fatigued by standing while on trails is to stand as much as you can when you are not on trails. It's called training. If you sit in a chair most of your life and suddenly must run a mile, you are not going to be happy about it. Or afterwards. If you run a mile every day, running a mile when you need to will not to be a problem. If your job puts you on a ladder most of your day, then you won't have a problem standing on the pegs for extended periods. So, start doing squats now, calf exercises now, lunges and burpees now, get into SHAPE! The better shape you are in, the less likely you will get hurt riding. And the less fatigued you'll be at the end of the day after a long ride. Even sitting requires weight on the pegs to move that gluteus maximus side to side. (Hence the squats) On an unknown trail or route, you don't always know how much you will want to stand. Stands (pun intended) to reason that if you trained for standing, you'll be more comfortable and less fatigued doing it. And squats also help you pick up your overweight motorcycle on the trail.
Currently riding round the world and the riders who put us to complete shame on rough terrain are the locals on 150s with bald tires and half their family! Never seen one of them standing up! We used to ride off road always standing but now completely comfortable sitting unless things get really gnarly
I've been riding trail bikes for over 10 years and I have always sat on flat portions. But to each his own. I think there are many variables in trails and riders and no one rule applies to everyone in every situation.
Funny how for 100 years people sat on bikes except extreme dirt bikers and if you watch motocross they sit 70-80 percent of the time. It is kind of weird to see in the open ranges 50-10 guys all standing on their bikes. I do understand the standing in technical riding the best example of that would be TRIALS RIDING. BUT, few if any ADV rider could hold a candle to that skill set unless they are one and the same! Great Vid.. It would be nice if you did a vid on the front and back POV of standing and how you keep the bike straight and the difference in leaning from street to dirt. This is huge because I have been riding for40 Plus years and when I went on the dirt, OH BOY, NOTHING was familiar , nothing!!!!! Confident street rider, took classes at age 15 but when I hit the dirt..... OUCH! I was great on 3 wheelers and quads but when I did adv bikes.....leaning curve.... And for these reasons riders get turned off I believe and maybe pick too big of a bike.. So, lessons needed to build the confidence and retrain the skill set. Teach it.....
Im a big proponent of "do what you feel comfortable doing". I personally Stand on rough sections to use my legs as additional shock absorbers and to just stretch my legs on long rides.
Standing on the motorcycle all the time when off road is stupid. I've been riding 40+ years, quite a bit of that off road. When I did motocross or enduro, I would stand when it got rough, when it was easy I would sit. Simple rule.
Great work Ben, informative and well presented. For me, a lot of the decision making is speed-based. Slow stuff I stand, faster stuff I sit. Hoever, sitting takes away your ability to counter-steer and load your footpegs. Needless to say I stand probably 60% of the time I am off-road!
Your advice is spot on. 7:32 I am new to riding off-road, and have found that there is no need to stand on reasonably compacted gravel roads, unless I am going over a bump or rut. As Bret Tkacs also advises, stand when you need to but know why you are standing.
I always call myself a sit down dirt rider because I rarely stand and do it most often for visibility. I also like Jenny Morgan's advice to friends of something like "if you see me stand up, shits about to get real", noting her rare need to stand.
So true! Love Jenny Morgan. When Jenny speaks.....I listen. :) I see lots of riders standing when it's absolutely unnecessary. I think they've bought into the adventure rider look, as in look at me....I'm an adventure rider and I'm cool because I stand up. I do stand up but only when I feel the need.
Great video. I've been riding off road on and off for about 45 years now. I got one quite bad knee and one that is constantly compensation for it. I sit a lot more than I should, but adjust my speed and how aggressive I ride. I'd rather get there late, than never. I do stand when I have to though and pay the price in pain the next day. But hey keeping riding is what keeps me going.
This exact question has been banging around in my head lately. I learned to ride in rural South America on mountain trails and roads. It was all adventure, all the time. As I have been watching adv videos I have noticed everyone always standing and to be honest, it seemed stupid to me. As you said, you need to take advantage of rest time as much as you can. Excellent video and I totally agree with your conclusion.
I've ridden and raced offroad for more than 50 years, and have also ridden ADV and street for more than 40. I agree completely with your advice, although I do still sit when the riding is BOTH very slow (walking pace or slower) and very technical.
I think it is speed dependent. If you want to go fast, better stay standing to be able to deal w terrain changes. I watch tons of these Moto UA-cam’s and when guys crash it is often because they are sitting when they should have been standing .
As a new rider I've been binge watching many of the most popular teaching channels, and I see A LOT of push for standing. To me it just makes sense that I'd need to stand when things get squirrely, otherwise I'm sitting.
Famous Aussie Dakar rider says, "Stand when you need to, sit when you can." I bumped into a group of ADVers on the WY BDR last summer, all with huge official BMW GS bikes. They were taking a break, but when they got going again, they all stood up as soon as they had the bikes rolling. It was a super wide, flat, easy two-lane dirt road. It looked so funny! Just couldn't understand how/why you'd want to stand ALL day.
I have seen this too - mostly with BMW guys. I think sitters get shamed at BMW events, so they all feel compelled to virtue signal that they are good riders by standing. It's kind of like all the followers of a certain party wearing masks! I just smile and wave
Great video and totally agree. Chris Birch emphasizes this in his training. He says when you stand you are “burning your matches” or using more energy. He says you should stand when you hit a terrain that you say, “Oh shit!” I see a lot of people standing totally erect which gives you no control of the motorcycle. I guess if that’s more comfortable for you on a gravel road or to stretch for a bit then fine but you can only hope you won’t need to do a sudden maneuver to miss a rock, rut or some other hazard. Standing for technical terrain should be in a Semi-attack position that you can quickly “lower your triangle” if the situation becomes more dire.
You Sir, are right on the money with this advice! Nearly 60 years of riding on all terrain/conditions, has proven these tips to me over and over again!
Standing lowers your center of gravity closer to the ground, at the pegs, and also lets your body get more leverage on the bike which helps you both sense and affect the bike’s attitude more easily.
Absolutely don't have to stand up, unless the road conditions changes or Clear a hill up or river crossing . You need to rest and to endure and enjoy the ride. Excellent video lesson.
All good stuff. One aspect, I did not hear, or see in the comments of one of the reasons to stand..... To weight the pegs and lower your center of gravity. Gives better control. When sitting your center of gravity is a lot higher, ie: less control.. Go watch some woods riding, enduros, hare scrambles, you,'ll see.
I'm an old dirt bike guy, and I get leaning the bike over and keeping over the outside edge of the seat, but for me on large ADV bikes I tend to do the opposite, for example when making a U-turn. I keep the big beast vertical and hang off the inside road bike style. Leaning a big bike over when going slow in poor traction situations is an invitation to drop the bike, IMO. Anyway, I put many miles on my 1090 in a variety of situations including BDRs, and never dropped it, so it works for me. Totally agree with sitting down for all but the challenging sections.
To me, the standard position is sitting right at the seat-tank junction, as pointed out. Where your front wheel goes is critical while the rear wheel can hop/slide without too much concern. Standing is for stretching your legs or when things get tricky (except in mud when sitting is still right as you'll likely need your feet on the ground quickly) or when going fast in an area where you might hit a hard bump so you need to let the bike float around under you.
I crossed the length of North Dakota last year on gravel … I’m not standing up for 2 days straight… I did the Wyoming BDR in 5 days. If I had to stand the entire trip it would add 2-3 more days because i wouldn’t be able to walk after the 2nd day … 🙏🙏
@@elgringoec I have never had to push a bike outside of a parking lot, but 45 years of riding and growing up on gravel helps. I stand when needed, but with the right tires, suspension, proper load and regulated speed most roads can be sat down on … ** I don’t single track much anymore, it’s to much work for this old goat …
@@timlubbers2884 Yes I also find those all factor in to relative comfort and when to stand or sit. By "pushing it" I meant pushing our limits (or our luck 😂). Checking the years, it looks like I've been riding for 58 years -- where does the time go??? I find one of the big rewards of riding off-road is hauling ass. Getting up near the edge and teasing death pegs the thrill meter. But it's demanding. Sometimes ya gotta back it down. To rest I just back it down to the 70% range. Or stop and take a break. The older I get, the more I like breaks. Somewhere with nice ambience like beside a brook or a high spot with a view. I only stand when there's a lot of jarring or bouncing, or for jumping or hopping over obstacles. I probably sit more than the critics would probably say I should. But I've been riding a long time, and habits get ingrained. It would be a motivator to change if I were riding in the back of the pack, so to speak. Anyway I don't think there's one recipe for everyone. Success speaks for itself. I'm still fine single track vs double track. New limitations of excessive obstacles to work over are getting to me though. It's just not fun anymore to have to wrestle the bike around much as I've lost strength and stamina.
@@elgringoec doh😳, I got ya! As I’ve aged, I agree with you on what you said. I just wish there was a way to reclaim our roads, I hate all of the tarmac that is running through our back woods. Growing up in Montana was so great when you could actually go riding the backwoods and not get run over by a 30’ rv 😡😡
@@timlubbers2884 Yeah we lose a few gravel roads a year to the pressure of people not wanting dust. Can't really blame them. But we still have some to go play on. And the national forest has dirt roads, 4x4 style, for management and fire access, which we can still tackle. It's not over yet. But we make trails through the woods on our property to ride. Dirt bikes, mountain bikes, going for a walk with the grandkids... Trail building and maintenance is quite time consuming, yet it's quality time.
Lol. After 29 days straight on the TAT 12-15 sometimes 24 hours on the bike you invent new ways of doing things. Like moving your duffel bag forward forcing you to ride in a more forward seated position as well as being able to sit on it putting you in a half seated half standing position. Something we named steating. Trust me on long long days of easy to moderate Offroad it works like a champ. Especially at 60 years old with a prior broken back.
Really good tips, totally agree and I would add that it takes at least a season of riding to get your own flow and also to retrain your brain for all situations, so even when you think you are OK sitting or standing, re-check and do not get too cocky with speed or turns yet.
At last! Someone not preaching stand, stand, stand and gets the value of sitting and resting. Personally, I prefer to sit unless I NEED to stand. That keeps my legs as rested as possible for when they need to "step up" and handle the rough stuff. You mentioned the leg out to counterbalance technique. That works well and I'm a fan of that dirt track style, but be wary of doing that in areas where your foot might get caught on a rock, root or something cuz you could seriously injure yourself if that happens. So only do that when you know you've got clear space.
The big bike courses are the ones teaching 100% standing. Its because those 600 pound beast are unmanageable. Standing, as long as you have your knees bent can be very beneficial in technical stuff, but sitting can also be helpful. Go to a Hard Enduro race and watch the pros. They use both sitting and standing. Good content.
Not a rule, but I usually sit when I need weight forward during cornering or on smooth, slow rides. I usually stand when I need weight over the back or on bumpy fast rides that are fairly straight. More importantly than sitting or standing is to get the weight transferred to where you need it and not be stationary on the bike. Even on bumpy surfaces, you can sit down and use your knees to hold onto the bike while sitting forward on the seat.
When you stand your weight is transferred thru the foot pegs and puts additional weight on front wheel . Sitting moves Centre of gravity back towards rear wheel. Washing out rear wheel in corner ok, washing out front wheel you crash
@Dan Townsend sitting forward or back on the seat, will transfer weight forward or back. Standing fwd or back will either push or pull on the bars, also transfing weight. Sitting or standing to me is not as important as putting the weight where it needs to be. In bumpy conditions, I'm usually standing and cornering I'm usually sitting (almost on the tank)
I never heard you are supposed to stand the whole time. I was told it was for challenging/tricky sections and I switch between standing and sitting depending on what is most comfortable and what experience has shown gives me better control at the time.
While I stand probably 75% of the time I agree with you - get rest when you can. Also when in slow muddy sections a seated position will help you get more traction on the rear wheel.
As a new Adventure Bike rider this video answered a number of questions. I find that standing works great but I find it tiring to the point of fatigue in my thighs. The feeling is very similar to a long day of skiing on advanced trails.
I learned the hard way, sitting when it gets technical, is bad. Transferring from a gravel road, to a steep logging trail, I didn't see the ditch hidden by weeds, and got knocked off balance and fell over. Had I been standing, I probably would have been fine.
Finally someone making sensible directions! Specially about choking up on the bike specially when going around loose surface curves/turns. What we learned in the day (70’s) when we had lousy suspensions was to get up on the pegs and off the seat in rough terrain si the bike could move around without throwing you off or over the bars!
"Butt crack on the edge of the seat" Let's just call it what it is, and I agree 100%. Not sure if there was enough emphasis on 'left turn, right edge' and vise versa...
It does vary quite a bit with the experts. You do see the Dakar riders sitting to converse energy while crossing terrain at speeds we'd never even consider. Toby Price especially prides himself on being irregular in how much time he spends in the saddle over the course of his races. You'll also see some of those top riders sitting very rarely. Ultimately I think that goal is to feel in control and reasonably relaxed (because usually, if you fight the bike, you lose), and it's possibly to do that both standing and sitting, in most cases, but standing is actually the less technical of the two, once you beat the instinct factor.
It’s very situational, but the short answer is no. I believe what dictates to sit or stand is how the bike needs to be manipulated in order to maintain the intended line. On the topic of standing, standing on the pegs vs what I would call “stepping into the pegs” gives totally different control of the bike. If you know what I’m talking about, I would highly encourage you to make a video describing it. I think a lot of viewers would benefit from it.
Great video Ben. I'm currently trying to teach my oldest daughter these things on our trail rides. I think I'll have her watch this! For some reason, our kids tend to listen to other people better than us parents! It also helps that you're a teacher by trade, and a good one at that! 😀
„ ... our kids listening to other people better than us parents…” Really ? 😂😉 I think I know the feeling. Great you are teaching your daughter. Enjoy it while it lasts. She will probably soon leave you behind! (And that’s the way it should be.)
Sure, one of the big rewards of riding off-road is hauling ass. Getting up near the edge and teasing death pegs the thrill meter. But it's demanding. Sometimes ya gotta back it down. To rest I just back it down to the 70% range. Or stop and take a break. The older I get, the more I like breaks. Somewhere with nice ambience like beside a brook or a high spot with a view. I only stand when there's a lot of jarring or bouncing, or for jumping or hopping over obstacles. I probably sit more than the critics would probably say I should. But I've been riding a long time, and habits get ingrained. It would be a motivator to change if I were riding in the back of the pack. Anyway I don't think there's one recipe for everyone. Success speaks for itself.
I think the confusion on this issue comes from the fact that when you take an off-road or ADV course, they generally compel you to stand at all times while you are on the bike during the course. I believe the purpose of this is simply to help people get comfortable standing. If you've only ridden on the street, and you're taking an off-road class for the first time, the best way to get you comfortable on the pegs is to require you to stand whenever the bike is in motion., even when you're just riding from one drill to the next. This can easily be misconstrued to mean "thou shalt stand whenever thy tires are on anything but tarmac." I would bet most ADV training programs don't intend to send that message, but since they generally only have one or two days to impart a lot of new skills, and they are often dealing with people new to off-road riding, they may not think to point out that sitting down on long stretches of easy terrain is not only okay, but a smart thing to do in order to conserve energy on a long ride.
I just bought my dual sport bike and it being winter I haven't gotten to ride it. But I see myself sitting more than I do on my mx bikes. Its whatever most guys feel comfortable with
I Sit Back when going thru sand.. and get some Fastway pegs... new style so you can rest your heels on the back part when riding/resting on the trail, standing especially.. Good one Dork...
Good video. I grew up in California sand. On a 250 lb dirt bike hauling ass. No pun intended. Seemed like we were always sitting getting weight on the rear for traction. Keeping the front light to float. Standing was for those intense hill climbs and flying over tops of dunes. Now 50 years later riding washington rocks, miserable deep gravel pot hole hell. Seems like always standing. I swear the bikes always bouncing off of something. Oh I forgot those sneaky tree roots going sideways across the trail. Staying comfortable standing is a must. This week back in California sand on a heavy vstromdl650a. Seems like nothing works. Brains say heck yes sand. Body says stop this stuff immediately. Picking up such a critter has become impossible alone. Gotta stand all the time now.
So, #1 this was great I’ve been riding since I was 10. Road motocross for about 10 years dual sports all along the way. I never really thought about what I actually do when I ride. I do all of the things you talked about. Made me feel good. #2 a motocross style bike stand might help you on your next demonstration, you could move all over the bike without tipping over….just a thought. Thanks!
Try balancing a short stick on your hand and try balancing a long stick on your hand. You'll find the long stick is easier to balance. That's why we stand, for times of balance. Also, to give our suspension some help on bumps. Rest of the time, sitting is fine.
Conserving energy is super important as you age (60+ here) so I sit when it's easy and stand when things get harder. I totally don't get the "stand all the time" crowd (cue BDR trailer videos of standing on smooth gravel, WTF?). Learning to rest when possible is valuable in most (all?) athletic hobbies.
In my opinion after keeping 40 years of on roads and off roads riding, too much instructions make confusing even for skill riders, think about those who are new riders. However bike riding is an art and I think keep it at what you feel from inside, which ever way you want to ride just ride keep it natural, don't assume that we are going out for film shooting 😉 we are out for our passion, more natural you are the more you will enjoy your self. Finally Don't forget bike rider is an artist so be natural. Thanks From Pakistan 🇵🇰 ♥️
We don't ride too hard and when we ride it's to relax and enjoy the trails and the scenery. We are mostly sitting down since our trails here are pretty mild. I understand the concept of standing up and I do stand up if I see a dip or a pothole or some bumps in the trails but that's about it. Because of my height, I find it very uncomfortable to ride standing up. Even with my bars a bit higher they still feel too low and have trouble working the throttle when standing. Maybe it's just my lack of experience since I have only been riding for maybe 2 years but I just have issues with riding standing up and being comfy. Good video sir!
Nice & very right. I do a lot of my riding on perfectly grated Swedish gravel roads. No need to stand up other than if you want to stretch your legs every now and then. Allow me to add another misconception about what „standing up“ supposedly does. It goes like this: lifting your but and putting your weight on the pegs lowers your center of gravity, which is desirable.“ I know, the false logic in this is actually quite tempting. But as those who paid some attention to physics class know, - it is completely wrong. So don’t stand up for that reason, but mainly, to add another level of suspension and for all the reasons mentioned in this clip.
I learned same as you. In the beginning of the season I stand up a lot just to practise shifting, balance and breaking. It is so different from sitting down.
Thank you so much for this advice. I better understand the difference. My instructor told me to not sit as much, but I feel like on flat stretches I need the break.
Good vid, pretty informative . The finding if you are in the right seat position by making sure both front and rear shocks move up and down is great info. I dont know if I am late but congrats on reaching 65K subscribers. Cheers
perfect breakdown. i do the same on the road for longer days. My learning to ride ADV got ruined by a driver that went through my kitchen and living room saturday morning. I now live in an extended stay hotel until things are figured out, and that's not a very good place to park and ADV bike.... Huge life changes.
I've been riding off road since 1975 and with dual sport / adv / farm bike kind of machines (everything from AG100, G4TR to XR250 & 600, to big BMWs, currently a 250 Rally) and when riding off road NO WAY am I ever standing for more than 1 or 2 seconds at a time, when there's a particularly big hit -- jumping off a ledge, crossing a deep rut, going up a very steep bank on momentum, jumping a log, going through a mud hole or other water. I'm not doing motocross or trials riding and these big hits are the rare EXCEPTION, not most of the ride. I'm riding all day, perhaps hundreds of km, not in a 30 minute moto. And I'm not trying to get there 1/10th of a second faster than someone else. My aim is to get there, conserve energy, not get hurt, not break the bike.
Pretty well said, conserve energy when ever you can!!!!Stay hydrated!!!! I am a former trials rider some times sitting between sections on the loop if easy and they don't have seats!!!!
The reality is like so much else in life, it depends. Depending on the bike, what you're doing, your skills, and what you need to do, all determine whether sitting or standing is more helpful. The biggest problem is remaining stationary on the bike, you've got to move around to stay balanced, whether you do that while sitting or standing.
Hello Meerkat well said, as old guy ridding mostly cali./Az. desert trails never worry about all the proper training technics just doing what works for me and the bike I'm on if I fall no big deal all good.
Really appreciate the off-road riding tips. I need to stand more, but certainly not all the time. I recently was taught that standing lowers the center of gravity of the bike because your weight is on the pegs, not the seat.
I agree with the notion that standing the entire time is silly. I'm all about using good technique to be efficient with use of my energy and the bike.. I find myself on tight trails in more of a ready position than anything, especially with our tight woods in PNW, half the time if you are standing you are gonna be eating tree branchs..
To me standing depdends on the trail, your speed, and pain tolerance. I always sit when I can and rest like you suggest, but I will be on the pegs standing or crouched with knees bent and butt off the seat most of the time if im riding aggressively. No substitute for knee springs when you go fast through bumps or gripping the bike with your knees when you need control like on technical down hills.
My tendency is to always have my weight too far back on the bike due to my long arms and 6' 3" frame. I'm constantly training my brain and muscle memory to sit farther forward on the bike. Getting that weight on the front tire is key on the gravel roads out here in western Nebraska.
Great tips and well explained. I have a riding buddy that constantly rides his dual sport like he is on his cruiser and is constantly struggling and bailing but can’t figure out why. Even with countless efforts from myself to “show him” he just knows better 😜 I’m going to show him this video now. Thanks! 👍🏻
When do you sit or when do you stand? Both applicable to riding and using the bathroom (for guys). :) Great video, keep them coming! Probably because I'm lazy, I tend to sit way more than I should. And sometimes my back suffers for it. Since having Corona for the third time, my brain is messed up enough now that I have a problem with my balance and coordination on descents. When I know I should be standing to ride out the rough, downhill stuff, I find myself sitting and panic braking. Definitely need to work on it and overcome the fear of standing on the downhills.
The height of motorcycle does matter when talking center of mass and center of gravity. A shorter bike I lean into corners and stand more offroad. A taller bike I counter lean on street and seem to stand less offroad. As Mr. Dork mentioned like when doing a dab on a taller bike.
Awesome and fun topic man. I had a goal for a whole ride season to get better at standing when the time calls for it. One thing that helped a lot, was riding with a crew of enduro riders for a while. The ride style rubbed off on me and made me so much more confident.
Great video with some really good points. I find myself switching from sitting to standing depending on what the terrain I'm going over dictates. I've had people tell me that you absolutely have to stand all the time and say that I know absolutely nothing cause I sit at times. You've confirmed what I've always thought and that is that it's ok to sit on the bike. Keep up the great work man, always love watching your videos as they are always great with a ton of very useful tips and tricks.
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I'll take it a little farther. I have been riding bikes a long time, mostly off road, I sit as much as I can, even when I was younger and racing Enduro and Motocross. The only time you "need" to stand is when you need your legs for suspension or for weight transfer. Keep looking ahead so you see obstacles and you can stand when needed.
I learned to ride a motorcycle in the dunes, and so many people feel that riding in deep, loose sand is difficult or sketchy. For me, it was all I knew and I spent years riding at Glamis, so riding dunes or in a sand wash is my comfort zone. When I get onto hard pack, I feel like I am on ice. The bike feels slick beneath me and turning always feels like the front end is going to push out from under my imputs, while in the dunes, I felt like I was carving a slot in the earth... much more comfortable. With that in mind, unless you are in some whoops or transitioning from one dune to another, I spent most of my time with my butt planted on the seat. I recently picked up a couple TW200s for me and my 15 year old son to ride and in Arizona it is mostly hard pack, so I have really focused on standing more, pressing my weight into the pegs and keeping my weight forward. Mr. Dork's description of when and why to stand makes more sense to me than any other person's advice I've heard over the years. And regarding rest, it's rare to dune ride for hours on end. It's usually a hot rip for 45 minutes followed by an hour parked at the bottom of Oldsmobile. On trails, we have ridden continuously for 2-3 hours straight, sometimes up to 8 hours in a day, and man does that drain you even if it is flat fire roads. That slippery sensation seems to have my entire body under constant tension and my mind constantly focused, which zaps my energy. Great video and great information... thanks for sharing, sir.
Nice video, and really welcome. As I was told by some others who are good riders: 'sit when you can, stand when you have to'. Which is the rule I ride by.
OMG the detonation light on your jacket is flashing! Ruuuuuunn!!!
Good video. There’s no fast and hard rule for every rider. We’re all different; different size, different bikes, different skill level, different terrain. I sit while riding on flat compacted gravel roads and only stand up for ruts, hills, or loose gravel.
Spot on.
Exactly
I appreciate the new direction your channel has taken! For someone like me, who is new to adventure riding, these videos are really useful. Please keep 'em coming! :)
100% agree you should not stand all the time, that you should not fatigue yourself. When on a trip or an adventure.
A great way to not get fatigued by standing while on trails is to stand as much as you can when you are not on trails.
It's called training.
If you sit in a chair most of your life and suddenly must run a mile, you are not going to be happy about it. Or afterwards.
If you run a mile every day, running a mile when you need to will not to be a problem.
If your job puts you on a ladder most of your day, then you won't have a problem standing on the pegs for extended periods.
So, start doing squats now, calf exercises now, lunges and burpees now, get into SHAPE! The better shape you are in, the less likely you will get hurt riding. And the less fatigued you'll be at the end of the day after a long ride. Even sitting requires weight on the pegs to move that gluteus maximus side to side. (Hence the squats)
On an unknown trail or route, you don't always know how much you will want to stand. Stands (pun intended) to reason that if you trained for standing, you'll be more comfortable and less fatigued doing it.
And squats also help you pick up your overweight motorcycle on the trail.
Great advice, I am literally taking notes.
I’m now in my mid sixties and standing is necessary but sitting is a necessity!
Do either and both!
Good video!
Thanks!
Currently riding round the world and the riders who put us to complete shame on rough terrain are the locals on 150s with bald tires and half their family! Never seen one of them standing up!
We used to ride off road always standing but now completely comfortable sitting unless things get really gnarly
This is true here in Costa Rica too. But usually just the ride alone, or one passenger
I've been riding trail bikes for over 10 years and I have always sat on flat portions. But to each his own. I think there are many variables in trails and riders and no one rule applies to everyone in every situation.
Funny how for 100 years people sat on bikes except extreme dirt bikers and if you watch motocross they sit 70-80 percent of the time. It is kind of weird to see in the open ranges 50-10 guys all standing on their bikes. I do understand the standing in technical riding the best example of that would be TRIALS RIDING. BUT, few if any ADV rider could hold a candle to that skill set unless they are one and the same! Great Vid.. It would be nice if you did a vid on the front and back POV of standing and how you keep the bike straight and the difference in leaning from street to dirt. This is huge because I have been riding for40 Plus years and when I went on the dirt, OH BOY, NOTHING was familiar , nothing!!!!! Confident street rider, took classes at age 15 but when I hit the dirt..... OUCH! I was great on 3 wheelers and quads but when I did adv bikes.....leaning curve.... And for these reasons riders get turned off I believe and maybe pick too big of a bike.. So, lessons needed to build the confidence and retrain the skill set. Teach it.....
Im a big proponent of "do what you feel comfortable doing". I personally Stand on rough sections to use my legs as additional shock absorbers and to just stretch my legs on long rides.
Dork you are first on UA-cam to callout this myth. Cool. Im amazed to see people continuously standing on easy gravel roads.
Standing on the motorcycle all the time when off road is stupid. I've been riding 40+ years, quite a bit of that off road. When I did motocross or enduro, I would stand when it got rough, when it was easy I would sit. Simple rule.
Great work Ben, informative and well presented. For me, a lot of the decision making is speed-based. Slow stuff I stand, faster stuff I sit. Hoever, sitting takes away your ability to counter-steer and load your footpegs. Needless to say I stand probably 60% of the time I am off-road!
Your advice is spot on. 7:32 I am new to riding off-road, and have found that there is no need to stand on reasonably compacted gravel roads, unless I am going over a bump or rut. As Bret Tkacs also advises, stand when you need to but know why you are standing.
I stand when I want to, I sit when I want to. Riding off road is a dance and the bike is your partner. Nice vid Ben.
I always call myself a sit down dirt rider because I rarely stand and do it most often for visibility. I also like Jenny Morgan's advice to friends of something like "if you see me stand up, shits about to get real", noting her rare need to stand.
So true! Love Jenny Morgan. When Jenny speaks.....I listen. :) I see lots of riders standing when it's absolutely unnecessary. I think they've bought into the adventure rider look, as in look at me....I'm an adventure rider and I'm cool because I stand up. I do stand up but only when I feel the need.
Great video. I've been riding off road on and off for about 45 years now. I got one quite bad knee and one that is constantly compensation for it. I sit a lot more than I should, but adjust my speed and how aggressive I ride. I'd rather get there late, than never. I do stand when I have to though and pay the price in pain the next day. But hey keeping riding is what keeps me going.
This exact question has been banging around in my head lately. I learned to ride in rural South America on mountain trails and roads. It was all adventure, all the time. As I have been watching adv videos I have noticed everyone always standing and to be honest, it seemed stupid to me. As you said, you need to take advantage of rest time as much as you can. Excellent video and I totally agree with your conclusion.
South America has dream riding! Every time I've been I've been jonesin' if only I had my bike.
@@elgringoec I lived there for six years. Great riding.
@@CruisintheNarrowRoad
And they're a lot less uptight about where and how a person rides. Here we're way more subjected to limitations and criticisms.
I've ridden and raced offroad for more than 50 years, and have also ridden ADV and street for more than 40.
I agree completely with your advice, although I do still sit when the riding is BOTH very slow (walking pace or slower) and very technical.
I think it is speed dependent. If you want to go fast, better stay standing to be able to deal w terrain changes. I watch tons of these Moto UA-cam’s and when guys crash it is often because they are sitting when they should have been standing .
Interesting clip. I never knew there were riders who actually thought standing was the only way. I've never encountered this situation. Amazing!
As a new rider I've been binge watching many of the most popular teaching channels, and I see A LOT of push for standing. To me it just makes sense that I'd need to stand when things get squirrely, otherwise I'm sitting.
i've just remortgage for a concept seat ... I'm going to sit on that SOAB !!!!
“Get we’ll acquainted with that tank bag!” 😂😂
Nicely worded. 👍🏻
Famous Aussie Dakar rider says, "Stand when you need to, sit when you can." I bumped into a group of ADVers on the WY BDR last summer, all with huge official BMW GS bikes. They were taking a break, but when they got going again, they all stood up as soon as they had the bikes rolling. It was a super wide, flat, easy two-lane dirt road. It looked so funny! Just couldn't understand how/why you'd want to stand ALL day.
I have seen this too - mostly with BMW guys. I think sitters get shamed at BMW events, so they all feel compelled to virtue signal that they are good riders by standing. It's kind of like all the followers of a certain party wearing masks! I just smile and wave
Great video and totally agree. Chris Birch emphasizes this in his training. He says when you stand you are “burning your matches” or using more energy. He says you should stand when you hit a terrain that you say, “Oh shit!”
I see a lot of people standing totally erect which gives you no control of the motorcycle. I guess if that’s more comfortable for you on a gravel road or to stretch for a bit then fine but you can only hope you won’t need to do a sudden maneuver to miss a rock, rut or some other hazard.
Standing for technical terrain should be in a Semi-attack position that you can quickly “lower your triangle” if the situation becomes more dire.
I’m a new ADV rider bought KLR 650 in fall. Can’t wait till spring comes in Ontario. Enjoying your content.
Thank you dork.
You Sir, are right on the money with this advice! Nearly 60 years of riding on all terrain/conditions, has proven these tips to me over and over again!
Standing lowers your center of gravity closer to the ground, at the pegs, and also lets your body get more leverage on the bike which helps you both sense and affect the bike’s attitude more easily.
Absolutely don't have to stand up, unless the road conditions changes or Clear a hill up or river crossing . You need to rest and to endure and enjoy the ride. Excellent video lesson.
All good stuff. One aspect, I did not hear, or see in the comments of one of the reasons to stand..... To weight the pegs and lower your center of gravity. Gives better control. When sitting your center of gravity is a lot higher, ie: less control.. Go watch some woods riding, enduros, hare scrambles, you,'ll see.
I'm an old dirt bike guy, and I get leaning the bike over and keeping over the outside edge of the seat, but for me on large ADV bikes I tend to do the opposite, for example when making a U-turn. I keep the big beast vertical and hang off the inside road bike style. Leaning a big bike over when going slow in poor traction situations is an invitation to drop the bike, IMO. Anyway, I put many miles on my 1090 in a variety of situations including BDRs, and never dropped it, so it works for me. Totally agree with sitting down for all but the challenging sections.
Less than a minute in and gets my opinion: selected techniques for selected situations. I like standing in technical terrain and gravel.
Depends on the terrain.
To me, the standard position is sitting right at the seat-tank junction, as pointed out. Where your front wheel goes is critical while the rear wheel can hop/slide without too much concern.
Standing is for stretching your legs or when things get tricky (except in mud when sitting is still right as you'll likely need your feet on the ground quickly) or when going fast in an area where you might hit a hard bump so you need to let the bike float around under you.
I crossed the length of North Dakota last year on gravel … I’m not standing up for 2 days straight…
I did the Wyoming BDR in 5 days. If I had to stand the entire trip it would add 2-3 more days because i wouldn’t be able to walk after the 2nd day …
🙏🙏
😂 it's tiring to push it. But loads of fun. Standing itself doesn't tire me, it's the repetition of sitting and standing that wears me out.
@@elgringoec I have never had to push a bike outside of a parking lot, but 45 years of riding and growing up on gravel helps. I stand when needed, but with the right tires, suspension, proper load and regulated speed most roads can be sat down on …
** I don’t single track much anymore, it’s to much work for this old goat …
@@timlubbers2884
Yes I also find those all factor in to relative comfort and when to stand or sit.
By "pushing it" I meant pushing our limits (or our luck 😂).
Checking the years, it looks like I've been riding for 58 years -- where does the time go???
I find one of the big rewards of riding off-road is hauling ass. Getting up near the edge and teasing death pegs the thrill meter. But it's demanding. Sometimes ya gotta back it down. To rest I just back it down to the 70% range. Or stop and take a break. The older I get, the more I like breaks. Somewhere with nice ambience like beside a brook or a high spot with a view.
I only stand when there's a lot of jarring or bouncing, or for jumping or hopping over obstacles. I probably sit more than the critics would probably say I should. But I've been riding a long time, and habits get ingrained. It would be a motivator to change if I were riding in the back of the pack, so to speak. Anyway I don't think there's one recipe for everyone. Success speaks for itself.
I'm still fine single track vs double track. New limitations of excessive obstacles to work over are getting to me though. It's just not fun anymore to have to wrestle the bike around much as I've lost strength and stamina.
@@elgringoec doh😳, I got ya!
As I’ve aged, I agree with you on what you said. I just wish there was a way to reclaim our roads, I hate all of the tarmac that is running through our back woods. Growing up in Montana was so great when you could actually go riding the backwoods and not get run over by a 30’ rv 😡😡
@@timlubbers2884
Yeah we lose a few gravel roads a year to the pressure of people not wanting dust. Can't really blame them. But we still have some to go play on. And the national forest has dirt roads, 4x4 style, for management and fire access, which we can still tackle. It's not over yet. But we make trails through the woods on our property to ride. Dirt bikes, mountain bikes, going for a walk with the grandkids... Trail building and maintenance is quite time consuming, yet it's quality time.
Lol. After 29 days straight on the TAT 12-15 sometimes 24 hours on the bike you invent new ways of doing things. Like moving your duffel bag forward forcing you to ride in a more forward seated position as well as being able to sit on it putting you in a half seated half standing position. Something we named steating. Trust me on long long days of easy to moderate Offroad it works like a champ. Especially at 60 years old with a prior broken back.
Really good tips, totally agree and I would add that it takes at least a season of riding to get your own flow and also to retrain your brain for all situations, so even when you think you are OK sitting or standing, re-check and do not get too cocky with speed or turns yet.
At last! Someone not preaching stand, stand, stand and gets the value of sitting and resting.
Personally, I prefer to sit unless I NEED to stand. That keeps my legs as rested as possible for when they need to "step up" and handle the rough stuff.
You mentioned the leg out to counterbalance technique. That works well and I'm a fan of that dirt track style, but be wary of doing that in areas where your foot might get caught on a rock, root or something cuz you could seriously injure yourself if that happens. So only do that when you know you've got clear space.
You’re bang on correct. Definitely stand on the rough stuff.
The big bike courses are the ones teaching 100% standing. Its because those 600 pound beast are unmanageable.
Standing, as long as you have your knees bent can be very beneficial in technical stuff, but sitting can also be helpful.
Go to a Hard Enduro race and watch the pros. They use both sitting and standing.
Good content.
Not a rule, but I usually sit when I need weight forward during cornering or on smooth, slow rides. I usually stand when I need weight over the back or on bumpy fast rides that are fairly straight.
More importantly than sitting or standing is to get the weight transferred to where you need it and not be stationary on the bike. Even on bumpy surfaces, you can sit down and use your knees to hold onto the bike while sitting forward on the seat.
When you stand your weight is transferred thru the foot pegs and puts additional weight on front wheel . Sitting moves Centre of gravity back towards rear wheel. Washing out rear wheel in corner ok, washing out front wheel you crash
@Dan Townsend sitting forward or back on the seat, will transfer weight forward or back.
Standing fwd or back will either push or pull on the bars, also transfing weight.
Sitting or standing to me is not as important as putting the weight where it needs to be. In bumpy conditions, I'm usually standing and cornering I'm usually sitting (almost on the tank)
I never heard you are supposed to stand the whole time. I was told it was for challenging/tricky sections and I switch between standing and sitting depending on what is most comfortable and what experience has shown gives me better control at the time.
While I stand probably 75% of the time I agree with you - get rest when you can. Also when in slow muddy sections a seated position will help you get more traction on the rear wheel.
As a new Adventure Bike rider this video answered a number of questions. I find that standing works great but I find it tiring to the point of fatigue in my thighs. The feeling is very similar to a long day of skiing on advanced trails.
I learned the hard way, sitting when it gets technical, is bad.
Transferring from a gravel road, to a steep logging trail, I didn't see the ditch hidden by weeds, and got knocked off balance and fell over. Had I been standing, I probably would have been fine.
stand for extra suspension and control; your legs and arms are extra suspension
Common sense approach to riding. Nicely done!
Finally someone making sensible directions! Specially about choking up on the bike specially when going around loose surface curves/turns.
What we learned in the day (70’s) when we had lousy suspensions was to get up on the pegs and off the seat in rough terrain si the bike could move around without throwing you off or over the bars!
I ride mainly off-road (65yo). It's def OK to sit when the situation allows. Especially in planted corners.
I'm too out of shape to stand the whole time anyway. I only get up for tight corners or when the road gets rough or loose.
Friends: Should I sit or stand?
Answer: Yes. 😁
"Butt crack on the edge of the seat" Let's just call it what it is, and I agree 100%. Not sure if there was enough emphasis on 'left turn, right edge' and vise versa...
It does vary quite a bit with the experts. You do see the Dakar riders sitting to converse energy while crossing terrain at speeds we'd never even consider. Toby Price especially prides himself on being irregular in how much time he spends in the saddle over the course of his races. You'll also see some of those top riders sitting very rarely. Ultimately I think that goal is to feel in control and reasonably relaxed (because usually, if you fight the bike, you lose), and it's possibly to do that both standing and sitting, in most cases, but standing is actually the less technical of the two, once you beat the instinct factor.
The RIDE Adventures instructors are so handsome and wise 🤭. Thanks for sharing!
It’s very situational, but the short answer is no. I believe what dictates to sit or stand is how the bike needs to be manipulated in order to maintain the intended line.
On the topic of standing, standing on the pegs vs what I would call “stepping into the pegs” gives totally different control of the bike. If you know what I’m talking about, I would highly encourage you to make a video describing it. I think a lot of viewers would benefit from it.
Great video Ben. I'm currently trying to teach my oldest daughter these things on our trail rides. I think I'll have her watch this! For some reason, our kids tend to listen to other people better than us parents! It also helps that you're a teacher by trade, and a good one at that! 😀
„ ... our kids listening to other people better than us parents…”
Really ? 😂😉
I think I know the feeling. Great you are teaching your daughter. Enjoy it while it lasts. She will probably soon leave you behind! (And that’s the way it should be.)
I do know this! If you do it wrong, you will instead "dirt nap". Do inverted technique if "napping" arises, lol.
Sure, one of the big rewards of riding off-road is hauling ass. Getting up near the edge and teasing death pegs the thrill meter. But it's demanding. Sometimes ya gotta back it down. To rest I just back it down to the 70% range. Or stop and take a break. The older I get, the more I like breaks. Somewhere with nice ambience like beside a brook or a high spot with a view.
I only stand when there's a lot of jarring or bouncing, or for jumping or hopping over obstacles. I probably sit more than the critics would probably say I should. But I've been riding a long time, and habits get ingrained. It would be a motivator to change if I were riding in the back of the pack. Anyway I don't think there's one recipe for everyone. Success speaks for itself.
It's personal choice, I've spent 25yrs riding in the woods, about a year on the road. I prefer to stand but it's generally 50/50
I think the confusion on this issue comes from the fact that when you take an off-road or ADV course, they generally compel you to stand at all times while you are on the bike during the course. I believe the purpose of this is simply to help people get comfortable standing. If you've only ridden on the street, and you're taking an off-road class for the first time, the best way to get you comfortable on the pegs is to require you to stand whenever the bike is in motion., even when you're just riding from one drill to the next. This can easily be misconstrued to mean "thou shalt stand whenever thy tires are on anything but tarmac." I would bet most ADV training programs don't intend to send that message, but since they generally only have one or two days to impart a lot of new skills, and they are often dealing with people new to off-road riding, they may not think to point out that sitting down on long stretches of easy terrain is not only okay, but a smart thing to do in order to conserve energy on a long ride.
I just bought my dual sport bike and it being winter I haven't gotten to ride it. But I see myself sitting more than I do on my mx bikes. Its whatever most guys feel comfortable with
I Sit Back when going thru sand.. and get some Fastway pegs... new style so you can rest your heels on the back part when riding/resting on the trail, standing especially.. Good one Dork...
Great video! I sit down all the time :) I’m not trying to race a motocross track :)
Even on MX track there’s a time for sitting.
Good video. I grew up in California sand. On a 250 lb dirt bike hauling ass. No pun intended. Seemed like we were always sitting getting weight on the rear for traction. Keeping the front light to float. Standing was for those intense hill climbs and flying over tops of dunes. Now 50 years later riding washington rocks, miserable deep gravel pot hole hell. Seems like always standing. I swear the bikes always bouncing off of something. Oh I forgot those sneaky tree roots going sideways across the trail. Staying comfortable standing is a must. This week back in California sand on a heavy vstromdl650a. Seems like nothing works. Brains say heck yes sand. Body says stop this stuff immediately. Picking up such a critter has become impossible alone. Gotta stand all the time now.
So, #1 this was great I’ve been riding since I was 10. Road motocross for about 10 years dual sports all along the way. I never really thought about what I actually do when I ride. I do all of the things you talked about. Made me feel good. #2 a motocross style bike stand might help you on your next demonstration, you could move all over the bike without tipping over….just a thought. Thanks!
Try balancing a short stick on your hand and try balancing a long stick on your hand. You'll find the long stick is easier to balance. That's why we stand, for times of balance. Also, to give our suspension some help on bumps. Rest of the time, sitting is fine.
Conserving energy is super important as you age (60+ here) so I sit when it's easy and stand when things get harder. I totally don't get the "stand all the time" crowd (cue BDR trailer videos of standing on smooth gravel, WTF?). Learning to rest when possible is valuable in most (all?) athletic hobbies.
In my opinion after keeping 40 years of on roads and off roads riding, too much instructions make confusing even for skill riders, think about those who are new riders.
However bike riding is an art and I think keep it at what you feel from inside, which ever way you want to ride just ride keep it natural, don't assume that we are going out for film shooting 😉 we are out for our passion, more natural you are the more you will enjoy your self.
Finally Don't forget bike rider is an artist so be natural.
Thanks
From Pakistan 🇵🇰 ♥️
To the "You only stand crowd" I ask them to get out of their seat and stand for the rest of the time we talk/have dinner/etc...
I was exhausted watching the official Washington BDR video with those guys standing up all day for 5 days.
We don't ride too hard and when we ride it's to relax and enjoy the trails and the scenery. We are mostly sitting down since our trails here are pretty mild. I understand the concept of standing up and I do stand up if I see a dip or a pothole or some bumps in the trails but that's about it. Because of my height, I find it very uncomfortable to ride standing up. Even with my bars a bit higher they still feel too low and have trouble working the throttle when standing. Maybe it's just my lack of experience since I have only been riding for maybe 2 years but I just have issues with riding standing up and being comfy. Good video sir!
Nice & very right. I do a lot of my riding on perfectly grated Swedish gravel roads. No need to stand up other than if you want to stretch your legs every now and then.
Allow me to add another misconception about what „standing up“ supposedly does. It goes like this: lifting your but and putting your weight on the pegs lowers your center of gravity, which is desirable.“
I know, the false logic in this is actually quite tempting. But as those who paid some attention to physics class know, - it is completely wrong. So don’t stand up for that reason, but mainly, to add another level of suspension and for all the reasons mentioned in this clip.
I learned same as you. In the beginning of the season I stand up a lot just to practise shifting, balance and breaking. It is so different from sitting down.
Thank you so much for this advice. I better understand the difference. My instructor told me to not sit as much, but I feel like on flat stretches I need the break.
You're so welcome!
Good vid, pretty informative . The finding if you are in the right seat position by making sure both front and rear shocks move up and down is great info. I dont know if I am late but congrats on reaching 65K subscribers. Cheers
perfect breakdown. i do the same on the road for longer days.
My learning to ride ADV got ruined by a driver that went through my kitchen and living room saturday morning. I now live in an extended stay hotel until things are figured out, and that's not a very good place to park and ADV bike.... Huge life changes.
Dang, please be okay.
I've been riding off road since 1975 and with dual sport / adv / farm bike kind of machines (everything from AG100, G4TR to XR250 & 600, to big BMWs, currently a 250 Rally) and when riding off road NO WAY am I ever standing for more than 1 or 2 seconds at a time, when there's a particularly big hit -- jumping off a ledge, crossing a deep rut, going up a very steep bank on momentum, jumping a log, going through a mud hole or other water. I'm not doing motocross or trials riding and these big hits are the rare EXCEPTION, not most of the ride. I'm riding all day, perhaps hundreds of km, not in a 30 minute moto. And I'm not trying to get there 1/10th of a second faster than someone else. My aim is to get there, conserve energy, not get hurt, not break the bike.
Pretty well said, conserve energy when ever you can!!!!Stay hydrated!!!! I am a former trials rider some times sitting between sections on the loop if easy and they don't have seats!!!!
The reality is like so much else in life, it depends. Depending on the bike, what you're doing, your skills, and what you need to do, all determine whether sitting or standing is more helpful. The biggest problem is remaining stationary on the bike, you've got to move around to stay balanced, whether you do that while sitting or standing.
Hello Meerkat well said, as old guy ridding mostly cali./Az. desert trails never worry about all the proper training technics just doing what works for me and the bike I'm on if I fall no big deal all good.
Great video. Great job explaining why you say what you are saying. Didn't even mute you once.
Really appreciate the off-road riding tips. I need to stand more, but certainly not all the time. I recently was taught that standing lowers the center of gravity of the bike because your weight is on the pegs, not the seat.
Check out FortNine's recent video on that exact topic, he explains why that isn't exactly true.
dork in the road is a good talker/story teller.
Where I ride it's mostly whooped out so I stand a lot. I look forward to those smooth sections to sit and rest!
I agree with the notion that standing the entire time is silly. I'm all about using good technique to be efficient with use of my energy and the bike.. I find myself on tight trails in more of a ready position than anything, especially with our tight woods in PNW, half the time if you are standing you are gonna be eating tree branchs..
To me standing depdends on the trail, your speed, and pain tolerance. I always sit when I can and rest like you suggest, but I will be on the pegs standing or crouched with knees bent and butt off the seat most of the time if im riding aggressively. No substitute for knee springs when you go fast through bumps or gripping the bike with your knees when you need control like on technical down hills.
My tendency is to always have my weight too far back on the bike due to my long arms and 6' 3" frame. I'm constantly training my brain and muscle memory to sit farther forward on the bike. Getting that weight on the front tire is key on the gravel roads out here in western Nebraska.
Great realistic information for new riders! Thanks Dork!
You gotta rest when you can. I agree 100%!
Great tips and well explained.
I have a riding buddy that constantly rides his dual sport like he is on his cruiser and is constantly struggling and bailing but can’t figure out why. Even with countless efforts from myself to “show him” he just knows better 😜
I’m going to show him this video now. Thanks!
👍🏻
Let us know what he says... I’m guessing he will argue the point because he already knows😆
Agree Ben - it's based on situation, terrain and circumstances - great vid!!!
When do you sit or when do you stand? Both applicable to riding and using the bathroom (for guys). :) Great video, keep them coming!
Probably because I'm lazy, I tend to sit way more than I should. And sometimes my back suffers for it. Since having Corona for the third time, my brain is messed up enough now that I have a problem with my balance and coordination on descents. When I know I should be standing to ride out the rough, downhill stuff, I find myself sitting and panic braking. Definitely need to work on it and overcome the fear of standing on the downhills.
Yes, more off-road riding tip please! Great explanation and demonstration.
The height of motorcycle does matter when talking center of mass and center of gravity. A shorter bike I lean into corners and stand more offroad. A taller bike I counter lean on street and seem to stand less offroad. As Mr. Dork mentioned like when doing a dab on a taller bike.
Awesome and fun topic man. I had a goal for a whole ride season to get better at standing when the time calls for it. One thing that helped a lot, was riding with a crew of enduro riders for a while. The ride style rubbed off on me and made me so much more confident.
Great video with some really good points. I find myself switching from sitting to standing depending on what the terrain I'm going over dictates. I've had people tell me that you absolutely have to stand all the time and say that I know absolutely nothing cause I sit at times. You've confirmed what I've always thought and that is that it's ok to sit on the bike. Keep up the great work man, always love watching your videos as they are always great with a ton of very useful tips and tricks.
Hey Dork buddy, you done good and I think after this you need a good cigar and a cold beer!🍺
I just started riding and took a dirt bike class this weekend. Standing up was so hard, my thighs are so sore. I gotta practice somehow