Imagine the thrill of conquering rugged terrain astride a powerful dirt bike.  Dirt biking is a thrilling and exhilarating experience that people of all ages and experience levels can enjoy. It’s an adventure you’ll want to repeat time and again. When you’re ready to dive into off-road excitement, dirt bike lessons in the UK are a great way to begin.

Why?

Because riding a trail bike off-road is a different experience to road motorcycles. Your skills need to be a little sharper. The way you manage your machine and the trails you cover take slightly different techniques. Dirt bike lessons take you through everything you need to know to have a fantastic time off-road. 

So, strap on your helmet and let’s explore how to find the perfect instructor, what to expect in a dirt bike lesson, and the secret to choosing the right dirt bike gear. Hold on, this ride is about to get wild!

Finding the right instructor for off-road adventure

When it comes to sating your dirt-biking hunger, the first step is to find the perfect instructor. Having a skilled and experienced dirt bike instructor is like having a compass in the wilderness—it’s your key to a safe and exhilarating adventure.

A great dirt bike instructor will help you master your off-road machine’s controls. They’ll take you through exercises that hone your riding technique. And most importantly, they’ll make sure you understand the essentials of off-road riding with an emphasis on safety. All Phoenix Trails instructors and guides are qualified to teach dirt bike lessons and have the ability to give you a safe and successful off-road experience. 

Even if you’re not a sprightly young rider, but a senior citizen with an unquenchable thirst for adventure. Phoenix Trails has dirt bike lessons that cater to you. So, if you’re wondering, “Do dirt bike schools offer lessons for senior citizens?”—yes, we do! We know age is no barrier to the thrill of an off-road adventure.

Choosing off-road motorcycle classes in the UK

When it comes to choosing the best dirt bike lessons and days out, it helps to consider the following factors:

• Level: Choose a class that is appropriate for your skill level. If you’re a beginner, look for a class that covers the basics of dirt biking, such as how to start and stop the bike, how to shift gears, and how to brake.
• Location: Choose a class that is located in a convenient location for you. Phoenix Trails offer trail riding days in a number of locations, you can learn dirt biking on the North Downs in Kent, Salisbury Plains, West Pennines and The Peak District.
• Cost: Off-road motorcycle classes can vary in price, and not all lessons will include everything you need for a great day. Compare costs and exactly what you get for your money before booking.

What to expect in your dirt bike lesson

So you’ve booked your dirt bike lesson and the day has arrived. Your heart’s pounding, your palms are sweaty, and you’re geared up for a thrilling adventure. Understanding what to expect can soothe any butterflies flitting around your stomach.

A typical UK dirt bike lesson with Phoenix Trails

Our trail riding days deliver the ultimate fun. You’ll love your dirt bike lesson and the chance to practice on the open trails after your session in the private training area.

1. Safety first

Things kick off with a safety briefing. You’ll be introduced to the safety gear, including helmets, gloves, and body armour. Your instructor will ensure you’re properly protected.

2. Bike basics

Now it’s time to get acquainted with your trusty steed—the trail bike. At Phoenix Trails we use a reliable fleet of Honda’s and Fantic off-road motorcycles. Your instructor will take you through the components, controls, and how to start, stop, and manoeuvre it safely.

3. Practice makes perfect

The practice area is where the magic happens. You’ll go through fundamental riding skills relevant to your skill level. Expect to cover balance, throttle control, braking, and cornering. Expect a lot of repetition because practice makes perfect.

4. Trail time

When practice is over, you’ll hit the trails. Your instructor will lead the way. You’ll get a taste of real off-road riding and put your newfound skills to the test. Expect to fall in love with navigating through dirt, gravel, and maybe even getting mucky in a few puddles.

5. Feedback and guidance

Throughout your lesson, your instructor will provide feedback. This guidance will help you improve. Don’t be shy about asking questions or seeking clarification—this is your opportunity to learn and grow.

Trail riding licensing requirements

Let’s not forget to cover the legal aspect. In the UK, you don’t need a licence to ride a dirt bike on private land. However, the best dirt bike trails in the UK aren’t on private land. They’re known as Byways Open to All Traffic (BOATs) and they’re regarded as public highways. Because of this, you’ll need a full motorcycle licence, that matches the power and size of your off-road machine.

UK motorcycle licence laws can be a bit tricky to navigate. We have full information about the right licence for various motorcycle engine sizes in our blog about motorcycle licence lessons. The good news is, you can get your motorcycle licence and enjoy on-road and off-road adventures in no time! Give us a call on 0330 2234000 if you want more information about UK motorcycle licencing.

Dressing for dirt bike success

Now that you’re primed for your dirt bike adventure, let’s talk fashion—or rather, the gear that could save your skin. Proper clothing for dirt bike lessons isn’t about looking stylish; it’s about staying safe and comfortable.

The Essentials of Dirt Bike Clothing

1. Helmet: First things first, protecting your noggin! It’s non-negotiable. A good helmet shields your head from any unexpected encounters with the ground. Ensure it fits snugly, and has the right safety certifications.
2. Goggles: Protect your peepers from dust, mud, and flying debris. Clear vision is key when you’re navigating tricky trails.
3. Gloves: Grip matters, especially when you’re wrestling a dirt bike through uneven terrain. Sturdy gloves protect your handstand give you the control you need.
4. Boots: Boots should provide support, protect your feet from rocks and branches, and offer excellent grip on the pegs. We insist on high-leg adventure-style boots as a bare minimum for all of our dirt bike riders.
5. Body Armour: Think of body armour as your superhero suit. It includes chest protectors, elbow guards, and shoulder pads. It shields against unexpected tumbles and impact.
6. Clothing: Lightweight, moisture-wicking tops and trousers keep you cool and comfortable. They should fit snugly to prevent snagging on branches or the bike.

You might wonder, what all the fuss about safety gear is. Dirt biking isn’t your typical Sunday drive. You’ll tackle rugged terrain and accidents sometimes happen. The right gear can make the difference between a minor or major mishap. Safety gear is your insurance. It lets you walk away from your adventures with stories to tell and a big grin.

Book your dirt bike lessons in the UK with Phoenix Trails

If you decide to embark on your dirt bike lessons with Phoenix Trails, you’re in luck! We’ve got your back when it comes to safety gear. Our dirt bike lessons and days across the UK include all the safety gear you need as part of the package. We make sure you’re well-prepared for the adventure ahead.

So there you have it, your crash course (hopefully not literally!) in the world of dirt bike lessons in the UK. It’s been quite a ride, hasn’t it?

Before you rush ahead and book your dirt bike lessons in the UK, remember to find the right instructor, and choose the best classes for your skill level too. Be honest with yourself about your off-road capability. It’s also a good idea to give the trail riding school a call so you know what to expect on the day. And make sure you’re licensed to enjoy on-road and off-road adventures.

Once that’s all taken care of, there’s no need to wait! Book a trail riding experience with Phoenix Trails and let the adventure begin. Whether you’re a daring devil or a seasoned rider, we’re ready to welcome you to our trails. Let’s rev that engine, kick up some dirt, and let the off-road excitement commence!