Breakover Angle

The breakover angle is the steepest crest, log or rock edge a vehicle can pass over without its underside, frame or bash plate touching the obstacle between the wheels. It depends on ground clearance and wheelbase: more clearance and a shorter wheelbase give a larger breakover angle.

The term is most often used for ATVs, UTVs and off-road cars, but it also matters for enduro and adventure bikes. A long, low adventure bike can high-centre on a log or rocky ridge that a short enduro bike clears easily. Lowering a bike reduces breakover angle as well as ground clearance.

When an obstacle is close to the limit, approach at a slight angle, keep momentum, and lift the front over with a throttle blip. A strong bash plate lets the bike slide over instead of hanging up.