BACKING IT IN
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R1200GS Adventure rider Gary D'Amico decided to splurge for this ride; he picked up this X-Country just a few days before the class. He seemed to have a blast getting to know the bike on the way out of town. We bagan drills on the pavement in Montecito, working on countersteering body position:We built on this later by repeating the drill, standing:
Once we reached our first off-pavement drill area, we began to break down the backing in process. We started with basic seated straight skids:
Then, standing:
We discussed turning skids next, then practiced that:
If you have done very little or none of this before, this was a good time to take a break and let it all sink in. There were a few who were up for more, though, so we set up a mini final exam:
Finally, we attempted to put it all together in the real world. We descended a curvy dirt road, required to skid at least once, a little, on each major turn. The advanced form of the drill allowed for NO turning at all -- unless the rear tire was not spinning. Here Steve Friree shows us how easy it looks -- until it stops looking easy:
Craig Boone requested sound tracks for the videos; here you go Craig; I'll try to sing louder next time:
After a break near the creek, we turned around. The climb back to the ridge was an opportunity for one last, fairly advanced, optional drill. Those who gave it a try found that it leads naturally into backing out -- quite possibly the next Skilzdrill.
The views from the ridgeline, heading back to Montecito often required a moment's pause, and stop we did to take them in, more than once. Eventually we made our way down to Peabody's for refreshments:
Thanks to all who participated; I can't think of a better way to spend the day than having fun and improving riding ability in great company.
More videos available via links in the "VCARS in Words & Pictures" section below.
