Dirt bikes, also called “off-road motorcycles,” are a type of motorcycle made for riding on rough terrain. These bikes have lightweight frames, long travel suspension, and high-torque engines, which make them great for everything from muddy trails to rocky mountain sides.
Why are they called dirt bikes?
The name “dirt bike” is a bit of a misnomer, because these bikes can be used on a lot more than just dirt. But the name stuck because dirt was one of the main surfaces that these bikes were designed to handle.
In the early days of motorcycling, most bikes were only made to be used on paved roads. But as motocross grew in popularity, riders began to try taking their bikes off the beaten path and onto rough and rugged terrain. This led to the creation of the first dirt bikes, which were made to handle the challenges of off-road riding.
One of the most important parts of a dirt bike is the suspension system, which allows the wheels to move up and down as the bike goes over rough terrain. This helps to absorb the shock of bumps and keeps the bike stable, so the rider can stay in control even on the roughest surfaces.
In addition to their suspension systems, dirt bikes have a number of other features that make them good for off-road riding. Some of these features are light frames, high-torque engines, and knobby tyres that give a lot of grip on loose surfaces.
Despite their name, dirt bikes are not only used on dirt. These machines can handle a wide range of terrain, including sand, mud, rocks, and even snow. So the next time you see a dirt bike tearing up the trails, remember that these amazing machines are a lot more than just bikes for the dirt.