One of the most popular outdoor activities for motorsports enthusiasts is riding a dirt motorcycle, also known as a dirt bike. With summer finally here, you’re probably champing at the bit to get your dirt bike out on some trails as soon as possible. However, with more dirt bike riding come more injuries and accidents, and you could suffer one if you’re not careful. 

Cowboy Powersports in Beaumont is your Texas dirt bike dealer. Here are a few important things to be aware of when riding a dirt motorcycle in the summer.

Knowing the Terrain

It’s always a good idea to understand the type of terrain you’re riding on. Superior dirt tracks have soil that isn’t full of clay, since this impedes traction and makes it hard to stay upright. Loam tracks are favored by most dirt motorcyclists because loam combines sand, silt and clay in a more favorable ratio that provides sufficient drainage and good traction for riders.

In addition to high-clay content soils being challenging, very sandy soil can also be difficult to manage because it’s extremely slippery and your standard dirt bike tires will really struggle to gain purchase. That’s why it behooves you to purchase a set of sand tires specifically for dune or beach riding.

Motocross and backyard tracks are typically made from a very chalky soil combined with other types of soils. This soil tends to dry out very fast, though, so it needs to be soaked with water on a regular basis to stay viable.

Riding With Care

Practicing good safety while riding is important to prevent injuries like broken collarbones, wrists and ankles, as well as dislocated shoulders. Be vigilant while riding in order to avoid collisions with other riders and with obstacles in your path. Wearing protective braces on your wrists, shoulders, knees and ankles will shield these vulnerable joints from injury if you do fall off the bike. 

Keeping Cool

Finally, it’s crucial to know how to prevent dehydration and heatstroke when you’re riding in the hot Texas sun. Always make sure that you’re staying hydrated by taking breaks to drink water and cool down in the shade. In fact, try to ride in the shade as much as you can. Arranging your rides for earlier in the day or later in the evening will help you to avoid the afternoon sun at its zenith. Wearing ventilated riding gear can keep you cooler, too.

Looking for dirt motorcycles in Texas? Stop by our dealership in Beaumont, TX, to check out our wide stock of new and used dirt bikes for sale. We can even provide you with financing options if you’d like to make use of them. Cowboy Powersports proudly serves the cities of Pasadena and Lake Charles, TX.