How To Cross A 45 Degree Obstacle

Question-What is the best way to cross an obstacle that is at a 45 degree angle like a root, log, or limb?

Pro Rider-Nick Fahringer
Riders Website- www.nickfahringer.com
Bike-Husaberg FE 450
First Bike-PW-50
Home Town-Dayton, Ohio
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Pros Answer- Rider Nick Fahringer said hitting a long or limb that is at a 45 or greater angle to the straight on can cause your tires to push along the obstacle causing the bike to come out from under the rider. To avoid the phenomena, propped approach and set up is key.

Step 1: Riding position- elbows up, standing on the pegs, knees squeezing the motorcycle, body centered over the bike and head over the bars LOOKING AHEAD.

Step 2: Line selection/plan of attack- since you are looking ahead, you should be aware of what is between you and the obstacle, width of the trail, and where you want the bike to go after crossing the obstacle.

Step 3: Execution- there are two ways to cross this angled devil. The best way is to not touch it at all. This means finding a rock, bump or other object to pop your wheels up and over. This takes practice and confidence. If you are not practiced in the art of hopping a bike, you need to "square up". This means swerving away from angled log within the confines of your path and then turning into the log so as to hit it as close to a 90 degree angle as you can. Maintain propped rider position with a steady throttle, covering the clutch. If you do not get completely square, lighten the front tire with some throttle then backing off the power lightly to allow the real wheel to roll over it. 

This works on anything from angled approaches to logs, limbs, roots, square edges, entering roadways with raised edges, or running over machines that are blocking the trial.