10 Tips for Teaching Beginners to Ride

Teaching a first-timer to ride a dirtbike doesn’t have to be frustrating if you follow a few simple tips.

4. Encouragement is key.

If you're riding with a student, encourage them. As their skills progress, offer new challenges that will help them improve.
If you’re riding with a student, encourage them. As their skills progress, offer new challenges that will help them improve.

No one wants a constant reminder of what they’re doing wrong. Your advice may be on point, but it can sound like nonstop criticism, which can be very discouraging. Break up the pointers with some words of encouragement: “Good, good!” “You got it!” Point out what’s right—not just wrong.

Also remember that coordination and control will only happen with time. The neural pathways in the brain only develop from practice, practice, practice—not being told over and over. There’s a point where someone cognitively knows the steps, but still executes them wrong. This is when they start getting frustrated and shouting “I know!” when you point out their error. They do know. They know the words, and they’re trying to get it right. (Refer back to step 5.) Give them time and help keep them focused on the positive.

Comments