Everyone remembers their first time.

It was probably a bit scary, most definitely exhilarating and likely pretty quick. You might have been the type that wanted everything perfect so you dressed up and wore the appropriate protection. Or perhaps you threw caution to the wind because you just couldn't wait, diving right in knowing it'll be just a short spin around the block.

That memory is etched in stone which you'll fondly recall years later once you've gained experience and can ride for hours.

But, for the uninitiated, throwing your leg over a dirt bike for the first time intimidates especially if when used to watching the pros work their way around a track on a 200 pound machine like it was a feather. If you've never been on a dirt bike, don't worry, you're light years away from that. However, a good first experience might mean the difference between a lifetime of enjoyment versus swearing off this great pastime forever.

So, we're here to help!

No bona fide instruction manual exists on how to ride a dirt bike but with some advice and preparation your first time on this powered machine should go a lot smoother and keep you begging for more.

First off, we advise finding a companion with maturity and understanding. Whether you hook up with a riding instructor or a friend with loads of experience, knowing where to put your feet, how to sit and hold on goes a lot further in the flesh rather than on paper.

It's a good idea to take a friend or someone who knows what they are doing and can provide pointers and offer suggestions

Wear Protection

If you're just tuning in, wear riding gear even if you plan on taking a slow roll around the track. You'll quickly realize a dirt bike is a far cry from a bicycle, therefore, play it safe and wear all the necessary gear. No, you don't need to dress up unless you really want to since you can buy all that later but wear a helmet, riding boots, gloves and goggles at a minimum. Take this saying in Motocross "Dress for the crash, not for the ride" to heart.

You don't have to be dressed to the nines like this rider but wear the right protection

Sure, you can borrow your buddy's gear but make sure it fits. A helmet that doesn't fit sits on your head uncomfortably won't do you a bit of good. Appropriate boots snug your feet, not too tight and certainly not loose. Goggles should fit securely over the helmet squarely positioning in the eye port and your gloves should allow for adequate movement of your hands. Wear long pants and a shirt with sleeves. Don't wear shoes or flip-flops.

Choose the Right Partner

You're not alone in this dance on two wheels. Eventually, you become one with your dirt bike, but hopping on a high-octane 450 beast? Probably not the wisest decision when choosing your first ride. If you ever tried hanging on to a mechanical bull you likely got thrown off rather quickly, and maybe even immediately. The same goes for a large bore dirt bike so we suggest something smaller like a 125cc bike so as not to completely overwhelm and overpower you. However, for those of a certain age, check out:

Find an area way from people and obstacles when riding for the first time

Getting Started

Only two ways to start a dirt bike - kick start or electronic start. If your bike uses an electronic start simply push the button and the engine roars to life. Very easy.

Some bikes make you work at it, so if you have to kick start your ride this presents a tricky challenge as you literally have to push down on a pedal to get the engine going. You've probably seen it done a hundred times in the movies but usually one solid kick towards the ground gets the pistons moving. The spring-loaded kickstart sits on the right side of the dirt bike and automatically moves out of the way.

However, bike models can vary on the correct method so either check out the owner's manual for more explicit instructions or since you're likely using a friend's bike, just ask.

Body Position

Now that your dirt bike is ready to roll knowing how to keep it upright makes up half the battle. Riding a dirt bike resembles riding a mountain or road bike but a different emphasis on body position. First off, can your feet touch the ground? If no, you didn't choose the right bike!

Notice the length of the seat. You won't use all of it. Snuggle up where the forward part of the seat connects with the gas tank. Grab the handlebars and lean forward. This prevents you from looping out once you "step on the gas."

Once moving, keep your knees and elbows bent with your elbows out and up. STAND UP. Yes, it might feel more natural and even safer to sit as it gives you the illusion of control but this couldn't be further from the truth. For more tips, read 5 Mistakes Dirt Bike Beginners Make.

Standing up is how you want to ride a dirt bike

Controls

Your right hand grip powers the throttle (or gas) and the handle (or lever) controls the front brake. Your left hand grip has no other function than grip and the lever controls the clutch. Engage the rear brake by a pedal in front of the right foot peg. The shift pedal, which puts the bike in gear, sits on the left side in front of the left foot peg. Homework: Read this most excellent article on How to Use a Clutch on a Dirt Bike. For extra credit or just general information check out Dirt Bike Handlebars & Controls Explained.

First Gear

You've probably heard the pros start a race in second gear. You won't do this. You'll start in first gear. Grasp the clutch lever (left side) on the handlebars then step on the clutch pedal with your left foot pushing it down. You're now in first gear. Get ready. Oh, keep the clutch lever compressed!

Rolling the Throttle

Do NOT roll the throttle all the way. That equals flooring the gas pedal in a car and no matter how far forward you position your body on the bike expect to loop out likely ending your day prematurely. Most first timers get hurt the most when looping out. Others manage to hold on to a wild and crazy dirt bike after rolling the throttle usually leading to a meet and greet with a tree or something else impermeable in the area. In fact, just in case, go somewhere private with no one around and nothing else even remotely close that you can bump into.

This could happen on your first time especially if you open the throttle

Slowly roll the throttle then let the clutch out just as slow. Embrace that heart racing feeling as... the bike stalls. Don't be surprised if this happens. It happens to everyone. Consider this better than jetting out of control sending you into panic mode which typically results in a broken bike and/or physical injury. Eventually you'll get the hang of the delicate balance between the clutch and throttle, and the ground beneath you begins to move. You can't keep your feet dragging so...

Foot Position

You've got two foot pegs on each side of the bike. Put the balls of your foot on the pegs which gives you not only better riding control but quickest access to the brake and clutch pedals. As stated earlier, the gear shift pedal sits on the left side in front of the foot peg which you'll operate using your left foot so you'll need to position your foot accordingly to shift. In order to engage second gear, you have to use your foot (along with the clutch lever) and this time push up on the clutch pedal. The same rule applies for third, fourth and fifth gear so find your comfort zone with your foot to change gears efficiently.

I'm Moving, Now What?

It's all up to you now. If you feel comfortable, ride for as long as you want. Most likely though you'll be so excited that it happened but still a bit apprehensive therefore you might want to stop, catch your breath and realize you finally did it!

with your first time out of the way, from here you need to practice, learn technique and build your stamina. Like most people, you'll probably want to ride as often as possible, even every day. Yes, it's that fun.

Try and find others to ride with or take a class

As you get acquainted with riding, stop borrowing your friend's and get your own bike. You'll discover some adjustments make your ride more comfortable and easier. You can modify the position of the handlebars and how it lines up with the fork tube, fit the clutch and brake handles to your hand-size, and fine-tune the suspension settings to your liking.

Finding others with experience, group riding and even taking a class to learn more about the ins-and-outs of dirt bike riding enhances the enjoyment and gets you up to speed, literally.

For additional reading: