Momentum (off-road riding)

In physics, momentum is mass multiplied by speed. For a rider it means the bike's tendency to keep moving. In sand, mud, gravel and on climbs, carried momentum is often what gets you through, because stopping in soft ground means the wheel digs in and restarting is hard.

Heavy adventure bikes benefit most: with steady speed and a light front end, the front tyre floats over soft ruts instead of ploughing in. Look far ahead, pick your line early, stand on the pegs and use smooth, constant throttle rather than braking mid-section.

Momentum is not the same as speed. Too much speed into an unknown obstacle is risky; the skill is choosing the lowest pace that still keeps the bike moving and stable.