Sooner or later you are going to need to leave the safety of the saddle and stand up on the footpegs. There is little else that will transform your progress away from the tarmac more than this one step. For some riders it can be a quantum leap to start standing, so it might be worth first trying it on some quiet roads on a dry day rather than hopping on the pegs on the dirt straight away.
Standing transfers the weight and the effective centre of gravity of you and your bike to a point between the wheel spindles, and only about 30cm from the ground, rather than high up on the seat. This will make the bike far more stable, and allow you to easily control it and as a bonus, being stood up will give you a far better view of the trail ahead.
Of course there will be times, particularly on a bigger bike, when it will be easier and safer to stay on the seat – and that’s fine. For things like deep ruts, it’s sometimes a better plan to stay low down and potentially able to steady the bike, rather than risk disaster while standing on the pegs.
The more you ride the more you will stand, so best to start as soon as you can!
Along with your love for motorcycle touring following certain disciplinary rules and the above-mentioned tips you can surely have an amazing experience of off-road adventure bike riding.
Thanks Jim
Julian
I also love bike riding. You are showing your experience beautifully and I love it. Next time it’s helped me with bike riding.