SxS Trail Riding
“What To Know When You Go”
There are just some things that don’t get enough discussion about but are extremely important out on a trail ride.
Ten things I see all the time out on the trail that if folks knew just a little bit more about …. would make there ride experience a lot better.
#1) Your SxS Is More Powerful Than You Are
Your foot on the throttle is more dangerous than any trail obstacle. Learn to use it wisely. My Grandfather always told me, it’s 90% driver and 10% machine.
#2) Getting Thirsty and Hungry
Packing food and water as a necessity instead of just “nice to have”. Make these two a priority. Staying hydrated and feeding your hunger can actually make you feel more energized, which will help you think more clearly if you have issues come up.
#3) Social Stigma
Avoid all of the social stigma. Yes this may sound super ridiculous but it’s a valid reality. Avoiding the social pressure is a great way to maintain your boundaries and possibly prevent yourself from acting against your better judgment. This is how the term “Just Send It” started and how I get good video and pictures. Lol
#4) Air Down
By airing down your tires a little, this will make for a smother ride and gives you more traction by spreading out the footprint of your tire. Don’t forget to air back up at the end of your Trail Ride.
#5) Low Is A Good Idea
Between a 30-million-year-old boulder and a glossy plastic body panel there is little room for error.
The boulder will always win unless….you stay slow by being in low ,which will help stay controlled and focus on driving. Take your time, maintain a predictable speed and let your machine do the work.
#6) Pick Your Line
The smoothest course that keeps your SxS level with the tires on the ground where they can establish and maintain traction is usually the best. Cheating……watch the SxS in front of you …. this can help you quickly identify if that line will work for you.
#7) Threshold Traction
Tire spin while crawling in low isn’t always a good idea. The point at which your tires loose traction due to too much throttle input on a given surface is known as threshold traction. Through feeling, you can determine at what point you may lose traction and avoid it.
The goal here is to feel and adjust throttle input to keep tractive wheel speed predictable and steady which will help avoid tire spin and possibly wrecking your SxS. This one will be learned quickly as the predictable feeling is the “tipping” feeling …… that’s the center of gravity on your SxS when it moves ….. the weight transfer moving is what gives this feeling and if it’s not adjusted by your driver input could lead to rollover or worse. This is why I always say ” get to know your machine” ……!
#8) Spotter
Spotting is an art form if you ask me and having one is never a bad idea. It enables you to keep it safe. A spotter can see things you can’t. As a result, they might be able help you navigate a difficult obstacle or help determine the best course of action if you get yourself in trouble. A spotter might also better understand your weight transfer away from center of gravity and help.
#9) Being Comfortable
Having a good time is what it’s all about. Not being comfortable while your doing it will prevent
this. Whether it’s in cab accessories or comfortable clothing….. accessing what makes you comfortable and making it happen, I promise you will change your ride for the better.
#10) Having Fun Is A Prerequisite
Put your mind at ease. Focusing on the trail and driving all the time can be “not so fun”. It can lead to just trail tunnel vision.
A term we call a “white knuckle” driver. It can be normal for even a seasoned off-roader to have a set back in bravery. It might have been a bad experience, seen a bad crash or roll-over or it just might be because they’ve gotten older …. like me. If you can’t figure out how to focus and have fun …. your ride won’t be fun. Going with a group can elevate some of this anxiety and help it be fun if you let it.
Happy Trails …..
Go Prepared ……