TECHNIQUE
Splat
APPROACH: Take a full inspection of the hazard on foot – this is vital to a successful execution of any hazard. The approach is the key element to this rock step which was a tight left-hand corner. Turn the corner with the motorcycle slightly leaning in with the bodyweight just rear of centre, therefore removing the weight from the front end of the machine and affording maximum grip to rear wheel. Bend the knees to allow this movement and to absorb the bumps. When you and the machine are straight dip the body into the machine, compressing the suspension. At the end of the suspension stroke you pull up on the handlebars with the power on and drop the clutch.
BODY POSITION: When the machine takes off and flies through the air from its ground contact-point take your bodyweight rearwards in preparation for the rear wheel touching the rock. Just as the wheel touches, close the throttle and bend the knees again, allowing the machine to ride up the rock with the body staying in the same position. Once contact on the edge of the rock is made the body should be over the rear end of the machine once more. This helps to keep the front wheel high and to encourage grip to the rear-wheel purchase point. If you overdo this action then touch the rear brake to bring the front wheel down.
RESULT: The result of this action is that the machine’s rear wheel only has to climb a small percentage of the step, thus reducing the size of the rock and so reducing the problem of it touching the engine bash plate. Use this technique on big rocks and undercut rocks or logs. Be careful when attempting these movements though as this is a technique for the more advanced or Expert rider. TECHNIQUE