Dirt bike riding is a thrilling experience, whether it’s in a remote desert or the UK’s green lanes. The rush of adrenaline and the feel of the breeze whipping past as you navigate off-road trails is second to none. It’s a demanding and rewarding sport. And one you might want to try before you head out and buy all the kit needed. A dirt bike experience in Kent is a great way to grab a taste of adventure.

Without committing to the expense of your own trail riding bike, kit and figuring out the best route, you’ll get to enjoy this high-octane sport. Even if you can handle yourself well on a road bike, dirt bike experiences are a new challenge. So how do you choose the best dirt bike experience? There are a few things to consider before you pick up the phone and reserve a weekend for getting mucky on two wheels.

What is dirt bike riding?

Dirt bike riding is more than a popular adrenaline-junkies sport. It’s a great way to get out and explore the outdoors, get messy with friends and develop your skills on two wheels. Off-road motorcycling skills are similar to on-road motorbike skills, but not the same. Of course, there’s balance, throttle control and braking techniques, but your approach will be different to when you’re on a tarmacked surface. That’s all part of the thrill.

Where can I ride my dirt bike legally in the UK?

The UK has literally thousands of miles of off-road tracks called Green Lanes or BOATs (Byways Open to All Traffic). With the right gear, wheels and licence, you’re legally able to explore these tracks with a dirt bike, trail bicycle, horse or any other vehicle that can handle the terrain.

Although these trails are off-road, they’re still public highways. That means you need the right licence for the vehicle you’re using. Safety gear is also a must. Legally you need to wear a dirt dike helmet of some sort. Practically, you should have other safety gear like goggles, gloves and boots. 

A detailed map to help you navigate these areas is an excellent idea too. It’s easy to get lost somewhere like Salisbury Plain. You don’t want to end up in a restricted MOD area. The Salisbury Plain training area newsletter gives times and dates of expected training. You should also check other areas like Dartmoor before embarking on a dirt bike adventure.

Dirt bike safety tips for riding in Kent

Although you’re not riding on a busy tarmacked road, there is still the potential to hurt yourself on a dirt bike experience in Kent (or anywhere else). Safety cannot be over-emphasised. Always follow these few dirt bike safety tips:

• Always wear a dirt bike helmet that fits and is well-ventilated.
• Wear sturdy gloves, boots and goggles to protect yourself. Also, cover up with long sleeves and trousers. Ideally, a motorcycle jacket and trousers should be worn.
• Don’t wear loose clothing that can catch on bushes and tree branches as you go whizzing by. Wet weather gear is a great idea – it’ll keep you comfortable while you get down and dirty on the muddy or dusty trails.
• Check your route before you go so you don’t get lost. It’s also a good idea to ride with another person. Failing that, let someone know where you’re headed and how long you’ll be away.
• Don’t go dirt biking under the influence of drink or drugs. That’s asking for all sorts of trouble.

Off-road motorcycle adventures in Kent

The North Downs in Kent is an ideal place for a dirt bike experience. 326 square miles of open space and an undulating chalky landscape begs for exploration! It’s an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) crisscrossed with hundreds of miles of trails. Because of the AONB status, you’ll need to stick to the paths. This preserves the natural fauna and flora, so everyone gets to enjoy it.

One of the best dirt bike trails in the UK is on the North Downs. The North Downs Way National Trail stretches for 153 miles. You can take it in one long adventure or break it into smaller chunks. It’s not uncommon to see dirt bike experience groups out here, enjoying the fun but sometimes demanding terrain.

Phoenix Trails lead dirt bike experience days and part days in Kent on the North Downs. We also lead groups on the Salisbury Plains and, more recently, the West Pennines and Peak District. Our groups are led by experienced instructors who know the trails like the back of their hand. There’s no fear of getting lost, just the thrill of riding!

Is dirt bike riding good exercise?

Dirt bike riding is truly a whole-body experience! It’s a feat of endurance that gets your heart pumping, your lungs puffing and your muscles stretching. Not only is a dirt bike experience a whole lot of fun, but it’s a great workout too.

You’ll be constantly lifting and pushing your handlebars as you navigate tricky tracks. That builds biceps, triceps and deltoids. Your legs — quadriceps, hamstrings and calves — engage as you balance on your machine and push it to its limits. Your core is in action almost constantly to ensure you remain stable on your wheels.

If you’re ready for a full-body workout with plenty of thrills, read on to find out how to find the best trail riding day for you and your mates.

How to choose the best dirt bike experience

Choosing the perfect dirt bike experience in Kent is like picking a dessert from a buffet – you want it to be just right. These steps for finding a two-wheeled adventure that leaves you grinning from ear to ear will set you on the right track.

#1 Know thyself

First things first, assess your skill level and your friends if you’re booking for a group. Are you a newbie looking for a gentle introduction or a seasoned rider seeking thrills? Think about your terrain preference — are rugged trails your thing or is a motocross track more your style?

# 2: Ask the right questions

When you’re ready to book your dirt bike adventure, don’t hold back. Ask about the bikes on offer, their maintenance routine, the safety kit and measures in place for a great day. Inquire about the instructor’s experience and the group sizes. Smaller groups often lead to better supervision, a safer experience and more fun. Will they provide gear and body armour, or should you bring your own?

#3: Explore your options

Now that you’ve got a handle on what you want and what you should ask it’s time to explore the array of trail riding experiences in Kent. While we’d love to steer you toward thrilling adventures with Phoenix Trails, we’d be lying if we told you we were the only trail riding company in Kent.

Kent is a treasure trove of dirt bike adventures waiting for you to discover. Dive into trail riding websites to see exactly what’s on offer. Read trail riding reviews to get a feel for what past riders have experienced. Safety should be your top priority when choosing who to book your adventure with. Getting hurt on the trails ruins even the most exciting day out.

Check out the details of the bikes on offer, the gear that’s included and how experienced your instructors and guides are. Insurance is an important consideration too. And ask about any hidden extras you might need to put your hand in your pocket for on the day, like petrol or waterproofs.

Whether you choose Phoenix Trails or one of the other fantastic providers, the breathtaking landscapes and adrenaline-pumping rides on the North Downs are yours to conquer!

Exciting options with Phoenix Trails

If you’re yearning for an exhilarating dirt bike experience in Kent, Phoenix Trails is a leading provider of off-road adventures. We’ve carved out an unmatched reputation for expertise and safety. Our trail riding days cater to all levels of riders.

Choose from four different trail riding adventures. Our taster sessions are long enough to decide if this is your caper. Beginner, intermediate, and extended rides are available to suit your skill level and thirst for adventure.

We include top-notch protective equipment with all of our trail riding days and half days. That includes helmets, gloves, body armour, and waterproof oversuits if needed. Safety is paramount. We make sure you have the right safety gear for your off-road journey. And we throw in a light lunch so you won’t go hungry. We like to keep our riders fueled and ready for the trail ahead. Plus it’s a great chance to share the thrilling moments of your day with fellow riders.
Want to know more or ready to book your trail riding day with Phoenix Trails? Hit the link or give us a call on 0330 2234000. Choose option 3, and our experts will give you the low down on our dirt bike experience days.