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8. Dirt bikes – special features
Special features of dirt bikes
Dirt bikes are designed for hard use, such as
freeride, dirt, street or dual slalom. You may
also do jumps with these bikes. However, do
not overestimate your riding capacities when
jumping or riding downhill. Although these
bikes are strong and durable, there are limits
which depend on the rider, his riding tech-
nique as well as the ground he is riding on
and the obstacles. Only use your bike for
its proper purpose, as it may otherwise not
stand up to the stress and fail!
Keep in mind that the laws of physics are
merciless. Please note that, though look-
ing easy, the tricks of a professional require
instructions, a lot of training and experience.
Do not overestimate your riding skills.
Make it a rule to wear shoes which fit the
pedal system and sufficient protective cloth-
ing, such as helmet, protective pads and
gloves. Handling you bike is best learned by
joining a club.
Dirt bikes have a shorter wheel base and a
lower trail than usual mountain bikes. This
makes the performance of your bike more
nervous, particularly in bends and at higher
speeds, which must be considered during rid-
ing.
Bashguard:
Bashguards (chainring protec-
tions) are to protect the chainrings from dam-
age in the event, the rider gets stuck with
them on an obstacle. This protection against
damage is, however, only ensured to a cer-
tain extent. A too hard impact may dam-
age the set of chainrings, the bearing or the
frame. This strain depends on both, the driver
and the underground which strikes the bash-
guard. Therefore, only use your bashguard
very carefully
Chain guide:
This component protects the
chain from slipping off the chainring as a
result of too hard shocks caused by jumps,
races and other tricks.
If you use your dirt bikes for riding on
public roads, it must be fitted accord-
ing to the regulations of the respective coun-
try. If in doubt, ask your MERIDA dealer.
chain guide
bashguard
