Sand riding

Soft sand gives little support and lots of rolling resistance, so the bike needs steady power and momentum. On sandy tracks and forest trails the front wheel tends to dig in and the bike wanders or 'swims' from side to side. This is normal: stay loose and let the bike move.

Technique: stand, move your weight back to keep the front light, look far ahead, use a higher gear and keep the throttle on. Closing the throttle makes the front sink. Sand pits and sand sections on enduro and motocross tracks reward smooth power and wide, committed lines.

Sand recovery: if you get stuck, stop spinning the rear wheel, lay the bike on its side to fill the hole or lift the rear, then restart gently with low revs and a helper pushing. Lower tyre pressure helps, within safe limits.