Anyone else gripping with their legs?

[duckfeetz]

When I first started riding on my dirt bike, I had a really bad habit. I held on with my hands and my legs just hung loose. I could ride fast like that but my arms would get tired and sore so quickly. Now, I'm trying to switch to gripping with my legs and it's been tough. It feels so awkward and uncomfortable and I was definitely a lot slower at first. But I'm starting to feel my speed come back the more I practice. Has anyone else gone through this and what did you do to make it feel more natural? Appreciate any tips!

 

[thatguyrex]

Totally understand, that can happen during transition. Could be awkward, but necessary since your body is building new muscle memory. Keep making the squeeze intentional! Before you stand up or sit down, give the bike a good hug with your knees and inner thighs. That constant mental cue is what makes it second nature. If you haven't already, consider installing aftermarket tank grips like TechSpec or similar pads. They give you much-needed traction on the frame so you have a solid anchor point. Don't worry about the temporary drop in speed! The stability you gain will quickly make you faster and more in control than the old death grip ever could. Stick with it!

 

[jtrbr00ks]

Oh I thought I was the only one with this problem. Me too! My Dad tried to help me since he saw what I was doing. First is you have to work on isolating all the muscles in your leg. Then everything else is mental work to get the leg grip habit out. I'm continuously working on it.