Standing riding position (attack position)

The standing riding position, often called the attack position, is the basic stance for off-road riding. The rider stands on the balls of the feet on the pegs, knees slightly bent and gripping the bike, hips back, back flat, head up over the bars and elbows up and bent.

Standing lowers the combined centre of gravity to the pegs, lets the legs work as extra suspension and allows the bike to move under the rider. It also gives a better view of the terrain. Weight is moved forward for climbs and corners, and back for descents, sand and acceleration.

Adjust the bike to fit you: bar height (risers), lever angle and peg position all affect how comfortable and stable you can stand. Practise standing on gravel roads first.