This is essential for riding any 2-wheel bikes. The heavier your bike is, the more critical it is to master the balance on it. It’s about your safety and the quality of your riding.
Prerequisite – breathing, look ahead.
Homework – Start with this video, this is fundamental for shorter riders trying out taller, heavier bikes.
Start with your bike on a driveway or empty parking lot, engine off. If you cannot reach the ground, ask a friend to be around for your first session. Put one leg firmly on the ground, the other one over the seat. Feel the bike weight by lightly moving it left and right, and only in your comfort zone. You are not pushing to the limits here, you are just feeling the weight. Confirm with your friend that they are holding the bike from behind, providing you a safety cushion.
You should be controlling the bike balance using your foot on the ground and your thigh on the bike. This should feel solid and stable. Jump to the other side of the bike. Land on the other leg and catch the bike with the other thigh. Remember to look up and at something that is 20-30 yards away. Jump 10-15 times to feel this motion and to feel that you are controlling the balance. This might be tiring, breathe and take breaks. The bike is just there. Feel your hands and how your weight on the handlebars impacts the balance. Repeat several days, until you feel very comfortable doing this.
LanaOnWheels 