Taking off on a dirt bike means starting smoothly from a complete stop. It requires coordinating the bike's three main controls: the clutch, throttle, and brakes. Mastering this coordination is fundamental to riding.
Getting Started: The Core Controls
To move a dirt bike from a standstill, you need to transfer power from the engine to the rear wheel. This is primarily done using the clutch and throttle.
- Clutch: Located on the left handlebar, the clutch disengages the engine from the transmission when pulled in, allowing you to shift gears or remain stopped while the engine is running. Slowly releasing the clutch connects the engine to the transmission, making the bike move.
- Throttle: Located on the right handlebar, the throttle controls engine speed (RPM). Opening the throttle (rolling it back) increases RPM and power.
- Brakes: Used to slow or stop the bike. The front brake is on the right handlebar, and the rear brake is controlled by the right foot pedal.
Step-by-Step Guide to Taking Off
Here is a straightforward method for starting your dirt bike from a stop:
- Prepare: Ensure the bike is running and in first gear. Pull the clutch lever in completely with your left hand.
- Apply Slight Throttle: Gently roll the throttle open a small amount to give the engine a steady, slightly elevated RPM. This provides the power needed to start moving.
- Find the Engagement Point: Slowly begin to release the clutch lever with your left hand. As you release it, you will feel a point where the engine RPM starts to drop slightly, and you might feel the bike trying to move forward. This is the clutch engagement point.
- Controlled Release (Lacing the Clutch): This is the most crucial step. Continue releasing the clutch lever slowly and smoothly from the engagement point. As indicated in the reference, you need to "lace the clutch." This controlled, gradual release allows the power to transfer smoothly to the rear wheel.
- Avoid Stalling: The reference warns against releasing the clutch too quickly, stating, "If you just drop the clutch too fast you just stall the bike." Releasing the clutch abruptly past the engagement point will cause the engine to stop because the transmission is engaged without sufficient throttle/momentum.
- Release the Brake: If you were holding the front or rear brake (the reference mentions using the "Brake"), release it as the clutch begins to engage and the bike starts to roll forward. Holding the brake initially can help control the bike before it moves or is part of techniques for faster starts.
- Throttle and Acceleration: Once the clutch is fully released and the bike is moving, smoothly apply more throttle to accelerate as needed.
Key Takeaways from the Reference
The provided reference highlights essential points for a successful takeoff, especially emphasizing clutch control:
- Use of Brake: The mention of "Brake" suggests it's often used initially for control or as part of a technique for starting.
- Lace the Clutch: This phrase emphasizes the need for a controlled, gradual release of the clutch lever from the engagement point.
- Avoid Dropping the Clutch: Releasing the clutch too quickly ("drop the clutch too fast") will inevitably lead to the bike stalling ("you just stall the bike").
Practice Makes Perfect
Mastering the takeoff is about developing a feel for your bike's clutch engagement point and coordinating your clutch hand with your throttle hand. Practice in a safe, open area, focusing on smooth, controlled movements rather than speed initially.
