THE ULTIMATE BALANCE DRILL ADVENTURE MOTO SKILLZ

Ever been riding a trail when the edge starts crumbling beneath you? One moment, you're balancing on a narrow line, and the next—BAM!—your rear tire slips into a rut, leaving your front wheel up top while the rear spins helplessly below. Frustrating, right?

- by Mike Carroll

If you've ever struggled to ride out of a deep washout or rut, you're not alone. But there's a solution: The Grinding Drill. Practicing this skill at a dedicated Grinding Station will transform how you handle tricky terrain. This is an advanced exercise, so make sure you have strong foundational skills in clutch control, throttle modulation, and balance before attempting it. And always remember: ATGATT (All The Gear, All The Time). Tip-overs happen—it's part of the process!

WHAT IS MOTORCYCLE GRINDING?

Grinding is a slow-speed balance drill where your front wheel stays on one side of a log (or pole) while your rear wheel is on the other. Your goal? Maintain balance and keep the bike moving forward in a controlled manner.

Practicing grinding helps develop:

• Clutch and Throttle Finesse—essential for navigating technical terrain.

• Balance Control—improves low-speed maneuvers like U-turns and tight corners.

• Brake Discipline—using the rear brake effectively to maintain stability.

Whether you're tackling a rutted trail, stop-and-go traffic, or making a tight U-turn on a loaded ADV bike, grinding practice sharpens your control and confidence.

HOW TO GRIND A LOG

Grinding on a log looks smooth when done right, but it takes practice! Here's a step-by-step guide to mastering this skill:

STEP 1—FIND THE FRICTION ZONE