Dirt Bike Riding Season is here! It’s time to get out your gear bag and check out your gear. Does everything still fit? Will it still do what it is made to do...protect you? Here is a short list of things you should do BEFORE you go riding!
1. Make sure the kids try on ALL of their gear before the first trip. You DO NOT want them getting out there and figuring out their helmet is too small, or their chest protector doesn't actually cover their chest anymore. As we all know, it only takes ONE second, ONE crash, for you to get hurt. So you should not take ONE ride without being protected.
2. Make sure your helmet is secure. It should not be tight, but it should not wiggle around. Put it on and grab it by the chin protector. Move it firmly. It should not slide from side to side or up and down. If you crash, your helmet should not move from the areas it is made to protect.
3. Goggles used to be optional. Now they are a must, especially if you ride with a group. Rocks are flying off back tires, and they go straight for your head, face, and chest. P.S. Don't follow too close to the person in front of you. Stay at least 20 to 30 yards back. Show your kids what 30 yards looks like before they ride.
4. For me and my family
5. Gloves can be optional too, though I "have" to have them. They really just save you from blisters and bush scratches.
6. Chest Protector is a must. It must fit properly. It cannot be too small or too big. When warn properly it can save you some major bodily damage, shoulder, upper arms, chest and back should be covered and the protector should not move around too much when moved. Grab it by the collar and give it a few good shakes to make sure when you crash it doesn't move too much.
7. Leathers should fit kind of like pants. There are so many styles now that it is just a personal choice. They have saggy ones for the "younger, cool" people, some legs zip off for hot rides. Just remember, your leathers will save you from burns and road rash. So take a look at yours. Will they serve those 2 purposes?
8. Boots are a must. I know some people will ride with just steel toe work boots, well that's great for your toes, but riding boots protect way more than your toes! Your boots will protect your chins, ankles, toes and feet, from a huge number of accidents. There are so many bones to protect down there that take months to heal. Your boots will also save you from the famous "inside ankle burn" that all "new"" riders get and all "seasoned" riders have! Let’s not forget the old, "I'm just going to kick start my bike, so it can warm up while I put my boots on". I have seen more than my share of bloody chins from this. Those pegs have teeth!
9. Riding socks are optional, nice to have, may save a blister or two, but still optional.
10. Camel Back, I hope you emptied and cleaned it after your last ride, if not, throw the bladder away and buy another one! Empty and clean yours after each trip. After you dump whatever you are drinking out, flush out the line with the mouth piece and rinse it out. Stuff some paper towels in there. Leave the cap off and you should be good for the next trip!
So go have fun! Ride, Ride, Ride! Enjoy your kids, family and friends! The best place to bond with them is after a day of riding, by the fire!
Be Safe, Barbie
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