Gone are the days when kids only used to sit inside their rooms and play video games all day. And while playing video games is still a popular fun activity for children, engaging in adrenaline-pumping activities such as off-road riding is slowly gaining momentum. Don’t be surprised if your kid wants to ride a dirt bike or become a professional dirt biker when they grow up. And if you have bought them a dirt bike already and are about to teach them the basics of dirt bike riding, avoid making these eight mistakes.
Not Investing in Protective Gear
Before starting the dirt bike engine, you and your kid must wear the right protective gear. This includes buying fox helmets, gloves, long pants, and boots. You might think that since you will be riding slowly at first, there is no need for all this gear, but trust us, it is better to be safe than sorry. Your kid must get used to wearing all this protective gear from the start so they don’t feel uncomfortable later on.
Not Checking the Bike First
Another mistake you can make is not checking the bike thoroughly before each ride. This includes checking the engine oil, brakes, and tires. You should also perform a quick visual inspection of the bike to look for any damage. By doing this, you can avoid potential accidents and breakdowns while riding.
Not Starting Slow
You might be tempted to go all out and show your kid how fun dirt biking can be by going fast. However, this is not advisable, especially if your child is a beginner. Instead, start slow and let them get used to the bike’s feel first. Build up their confidence by letting them ride in an open area with no obstacles first. Once they are comfortable, you can move on to more challenging terrain.
Not Incorporating Breaks
Riding a dirt bike can be taxing, both physically and mentally. Therefore, it is important to take breaks in between rides. This will allow your kid to rest and avoid getting too tired. It will also allow you to check the bike for any damage or problems.
Not Praising Them
A little praise can go a long way, especially when teaching someone new. Whenever your child does something good while riding, be sure to praise them. This will encourage them to keep trying and help build their confidence.
Getting Frustrated Easily
Feeling frustrated when teaching someone new is natural, but try to stay calm and patient. Losing your temper will only worsen things and may cause your child to give up altogether. If you feel frustrated, take a deep breath and count to ten before continuing.
Not Being Consistent
Inconsistency is one of the main reasons people fail to teach new skills. If you are not consistent with your instructions, your child will become confused and may eventually give up. Therefore, it is important to be clear and concise with your explanations and demonstrations.
Not Having Fun
Last but not least, remember to have fun! If you are not enjoying yourself, chances are your child won’t either. Dirt biking should be a fun activity you can share with your kid, so keep things lighthearted and enjoyable.
Final Word
By avoiding these eight mistakes, you can help ensure your child has a positive and enjoyable experience while learning how to ride a dirt bike. Just remember to take things slow, be patient, and have fun!
