Automotive Blog

The evolution of off-road motorcycles, commonly called dirt bikes, is a long and complicated story. The first motorcycles were actually nothing more than modified bicycles with attached gasoline engines. These powered bicycles were amazing inventions in their day. Unreliable, but amazing methods of transportation, these motorcycles began captivating people across the globe. Since paved streets were not quite the norm at the time, motorcycles generally could be considered dirt bikes right from the start. No single person or company has been credited with the invention of the dirt bike. Off-road motorcycling is really an evolution of many years, with better tires, better suspension and seats, stronger frames, and better control features being credited to many individuals who were essentially modifying their own bikes for better off-road use. Triumph motorcycles did however design a motorcycle specifically built for dirt riding in 1914, although this model is not actually credited with being the first dirt bike.

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All motorcycles are vulnerable to some wear and tear, depending on the conditions in which they are used. Dirt bikes are built to be durable and to take some punishment, but they too, sometimes need parts replacements. It’s important to conduct regular routine checks on parts to ensure that your bike is always in good running shape.

Regular Parts Checks

1. Bearings. To check bearings, you need to put your bike on a stand with the front wheel off the ground. Then try and move the forks. If there is movement besides the normal suspension travel, there is a good chance that you should replace the bearings.

1. Engine. First start up your bike. If you have a two stroke engine, listen for any odd sounds. If you hear slapping or snapping sounds, the piston may be worn and might need to be replaced. If your bike has a four stroke engine listen to the top of the engine motor for rhythmic noises, and make sure that there aren’t any rumbling or growling sounds coming from the bottom of the engine.

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