Moto Tip | Flat Track Through Sweeping Turns
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Welcome to the new Answer Racing Moto Tips feature! Answer Racing has been producing the highest-quality motocross and off-road gear since 1976, and this month launched its new line of 2020 apparel. With riders like Alex Martin, Ryan Villopoto, Nick Wey, and Mike Sleeter flying the Answer flag, there is a wealth of knowledge and know-how when it comes to riding a dirt bike efficiently and effectively in the Answer camp. Each week, Answer will bring you some riding tips to help you become better at the sport you love! Have a specific skill you’d like to improve? Comment below and we will cover it in a future post!
There are few feelings like backing in your bike through a flat turn. All of the flat track we watched back in the day, must be why we always like when motocross tracks add simple, sweeping corners into their layout. What are the best ways to maintain speed and traction when you’re going through a mini Springfield Mile? We asked Nick Wey to break down the basics in this photo of Tyler Bowers.
The one thing you have to focus on when coming into a flat corner is entry speed. You don’t want to come into the turn too fast, because over-cooking the corner will push you away from the preferred line and will cause you to lose time.
You need to “roll” into the corner by braking smoothly and gradually engaging the clutch if needed. Being too hard on the brakes will cause the balance of the bike to get upset and put unnecessary force on the suspension.
Be easy on the throttle when exiting the corner, because just like with corner entry, too much speed will push you away from the mainline.
When you are in the middle of the corner, it’s best to sit in the pocket of the seat so that you can apply weight to the outside footpeg. That keeps the weight of the bike down and directed toward the ground, so that the edge of the tires maintain traction. Keeping your inside leg out and foot close to the ground will help you maintain balance, but be careful not to catch your foot or toe, which can you rip your leg back.
