Hi Bret, I've been watching your videos for a while now, motorcycles have been my life for over 30 years. I'm riding a GS1250 right now, so your videos have even more meaning for me:) What you describe in this video is something I experienced right up to the GS and I still remember the moment I said YES! This is it!!! Now I feel like I'm finally in tune with my bike :) And I'll describe how it happened to me....helped me to do it on a long offroad road where there were holes about 5 meters apart that I tried to avoid while riding. So I was going about 50km/h, at the beginning I was leaning the bike sideways with force and actually fighting with it like a little kid. But then I realised it was completely unnecessary, I got into a better position, remembered how to elbow sideways. And suddenly the bike was actually floating beautifully left and right under my body...it cost me almost no energy, but the feeling was priceless. I don't know if I described it well, I don't speak 100% English but I hope I did it right :) Good luck. @DaveBiker from Czech Republic
Brother you're talking about what they call in Japan, and Karate, Mushin. In karate you learn, learn, and learn forms and technique, so that one day you get to a point you don't need any of that. You have learned the underlying methodology of the specific techniques so completely, giving you the ability to apply it in all situations. Not just the specific ones you've studied. I believe this is what you are talking about. Motorcycle riding is not unlike martial arts in many ways. Bruce Lee called it being like water. Very cool. Looking forward to more videos!
Thanks for this Bret. As a married man, my takeway from this video is what I’ve always known: that every time something bad happens to my wife, it is always my fault 🙂
Makes sense and that’s how I interpreted the initial “weightless rider” videos. Body position vs WEIGHT loading. It’s how I remember my motocross training from the ‘70’s. 👍
Thank you for clarifying that concept further. As a new(er) rider to offload environments, I definitely would take "over the handlebars" verbatim, but adding the caveats and keeping the neutral, "weightless" position WHILE over the bars, makes a great deal more sense. I hope Christina recovers quickly.
Hey Bret, thank you for this interesting video. The idea of a weightless rider is something I would love to start learning. If you could please explore this more in step-by-step exercises episodes, that could make a great content for your channel. 🙏👍 All the best!
Excellent video. The 'shoulders' over the bars is really helpful. I had been struggling with the whole chest over the bars and not feeling in control. ? Well... that explains it. Thanks heaps for all your great videos. Cheers, Simon, Australia.
Good conversation sir. So many variables affect the need for risers. But just being aware of those variables before blatantly modifying any part is critical important. Looking forward to more sir
This is so much like learning a good golf swing. Lots of little adjustments but when you put it all together, it works. As you were talking, I could feel myself running my favorite local rocky hill. Can't wait for spring to sharpen my skills!
Great video, thank you! Funny thing is, this weightless rider idea harkens back to my horseback riding days. In equestrian endurance riding, one has to stand in the stirrups, grip with the knees, allowing the horse to “float” underneath the rider. All the while hauling butt over uneven trails. Single tracks.
Excellent redux on the the update explanation of being over the bars that is SO much a learned feeling that you do not get for a while and especially over varied terrain experience. I tried risers on my bike and removed them right after hitting some challenging terrain I usually ride and definitely NOT liking how it did set my position more backward than expected. Naturally I have orangutan arms so I may be different than someone with normal arms and the risers actually help, as I am sure you will cover fully in additional vids. As always another informative video aimed at making us all better riders no matter the level. Thank you for all you do for the riding community. Be safe my friend.
Great info. This is where my dirt bike training comes in handy. Keep the hips loose and weight off the bars. I found that i had no issues on the Multistrada and now my Africa Twin off road when using mostly the same riding style i use on my dirt bikes.
Brett great video but add to this body types mesomorphic , ectomorphic , etc , long arms , short legs arms , disabilities , physical strengths , mind sets , confidence , different bikes , you have many episodes to talk to us about I’m going to have to sign up as a supporter
I just saw exactly what you are saying in action on the dakar posts from riders today....perfectly described....now....how to get my mind to communicate to my body what I totally understand from what you've said and what I see!!!! LOL. Do appreciate this greatly.
Makes sense….staying weightless and in control….I liked your description of “hips above ankles, shoulders forward but behind the steering axis”…goes along with what you talk about with elbow and hand positioning 👍🏼
Excellent video. I had the same experience a few weeks ago. Came down a steep hill in to serious deep mud and loaded the front wheel. When the whelk tucked I went a flying. Luckily I wasn’t seriously hurt. The bike took some damage but in all it was a great time and great lesson.
Reminds me of teaching alpine skiing. Suddenly there were these realizations of things I was doing subconsciously that make a big difference. I'll keep taking my KLR down green trails for now
Looking forward to the videos! I remember watching some Ryan Hughes' videos where he talks about 'separation' between the upper body and the lower body and having the hips out...and i think that's what u were getting at too 🙏
Great video and get your stance on bar risers. Very seriously thinking of removing them from my F800GSA, but 20mm minimum is needed on the F850GSA in order for hand guards to clear the tank. I have about 3mm clearance using Touratech handguards and 20mm risers. Keep the great videos coming.
I am a new to off-road, two year rider on an Africa Twin, who has followed your channel, and I did misinterpret that past tip. Two of my most jarring falls, as I look back, might have been caused by being too far forward, over the bars, my butt was not hanging back distributing my weight to the rear. I’m the recent past, I bought a CRF250L and watch lots of dirt and enduro videos, and had discovered more of what you meant. I am sure if I saw a video of myself riding I would have realized how upright I was standing, when I should have been leaning forward at the waist sticking my butt out the rear. I have been moving back to the Africa twin again, and seem to be having better control now. All that is lacking at this point is a bit of confidence, as I mostly ride alone, and am unable to pick up the Africa twin by myself. I have slowed down, and am thinking things through more carefully. I look forward to learning more about this
Thank you for that clarification. I kept feeling my weight on my wrists on the bars if I tried to be "over them" and always struggle to find a position that feels natural and in control. Want to try and take these ideas into practice before I try fiddling with risers.
I crashed in the exact same way you describe Christina crashing. Happened to me last Saturday on rough twin trails and two weeks before on single track. I am typing this with a sprained wrist and swollen finger. Thankfully proper gear saved me from more damage. Both crashes happened AFTER I put risers. I am 6' 1" and ride the KTM Adventure 390. I am pretty convinced now that I will have to take the risers off.
Thanks Bret, looking forward to the bike ergonomics setup videos, I find depending on the bike that weightless is difficult as older bikes were not designed with such ergonomic riding positions, such as a BMW R80 GS, zero tank grip with the knees, I also have found this with my 2007 BMW F650 Dakar, where steep hills is impossible to use the two finger grip on the bars. The WR250R is just perfect for weightless riding...different ergonomics.
Yes Bret this makes a lot of since to me. I would love to see you other video on this. I have just got a CRF300L Rally and am not sure if positioning of the bars and controls are correct. I got the bike in November so I have only got 114 mile on it so far because of snow. Thanks for what you do.
You should consider what happens in a rugby scrum: the second row is practicly paralel to the ground, but he does not push with the weight but with the legs when he is allowed. It is sort of what you are trying to convey. I really like your channel and how you explain
Thanks for sharing this Bret! There’s a short video of Marc Marquez about to high-side and he really becomes the “weightless rider” but somehow his forearms hold on. Yeah - sometimes you have to fall to understand the physics ha. Hope she’s back on the horse! 👌🏼
A video with you showing riding positions on a bike without farings, aka dirt or light adventure, would be beneficial because we can see your body movement compared to the geometry of the bike, terrain, and suspension reactions. I suggest further breaking it down with drawing lines from foot pegs through hips, steering stem through shoulders, etc. To show how we are riding to use/ augment our bikes suspension/ handling. Can be a nice Segway into setting up bikes to meet your size/weight/ use.
Love your videos Bret....on the subject of getting over the handlebars: I own a Honda Rally 250 and I really try to get that weight over the bars (but not too much) on steep inclines...but is there a trick to not having to feel like I'm holding on too tight (so much so that I really feel it in my forearms). I have watched earlier videos of yours were you discuss having a light grip on the bars and I do this on flat and slight inclines but when hitting the the steep stuff I find my grip having to get tighter and tighter, gravity pulling me back down the bike and me having to counter it by leaning forward even more...perhaps too much over the bars and straining my forearms. Any remedy? I do try and squeeze my legs into the side of the bike/gas tank, but the Rally is pretty narrow so gripping my legs is quite a bit of effort. Thanks if you can offer some suggestions...
I look forward to more in-depth discussion about risers and body position. I’ll go back and watch the video you did in standing position. The 2017 VStrom DL650 moved the handlebars a little forward and down. When I ride with them in that position, I find myself (6’) leaning forward with weight on my wrists while sitting on the bike. Very uncomfortable for rides an hour or longer for me. So I put risers on. That doesn’t mean that I positioned the bars correctly with risers. I have trouble standing and being over the handlebars (i.e., balanced) when riding up a slope. Of course, my tank bag is also partly to blame so I’m making changes to eliminate that. I’m registered in your October course in GA, so I look forward to this old guy learning new tricks.
The V-strom NEEDS new handlebars to feel proper standing. It is very street focused. You may also need short risers on the bike. I suggest switching to a "fat" dirt style bar. The adapter will provide a slight rise and the dirt bars will provide more space and better wrist angles.
So tuck in but make sure that when you're over the handlebars, you compensate for that possible front weight loading with your back and butt leaned farther back to achieve "weightlessness"? I wonder if lightweight riders have an advantage/disadvantage wrt this instruction - I'm 45kgs and on a 120kg motorcycle and I actually find that weighting the front works better to handle the bike Vs feeling weightless and feeling like I'll get thrown off.
I love the weightless rider concept and utilize it frequently, however there are certain times when weighting a side or a rear or front tire is exactly what you need to do. I'd love to see a video from you on this topic.
I try to ride my bike in a similar way to riding a horse - you have to anticipate the movement the animal will make, but you must also feel what's going on underneath you as you go along and react smoothly and instinctively to maintain balance. This approach has worked for me so far. Sorry for those of you who have never ridden a horse - useless analogy. Basically, there's no substitute for time in the saddle, and get to know your own horse - steel or organic 👍
Best wishes and a speedy healing for Christina. If it's a fracture of the scaphoid bone, make sure that it is stabilized correctly (usually surgically), otherwise it won't heal (necrosis) and it would cause long term problems of the wrist (arthritis).
An observation on shoulder position relative to fork angle. Seems like "in line with the forks" might be a better description than "OVER the handlebars"
I was working on this on the weekend. One point Of interest was going from seated to standing. I noticed when I moved to standing I wasn’t getting straight over the bars and if this occurred just prior to entering a corner, the bike balance wasn’t the best. Bad habits are hard to break. Thanks for your insights.
A year ago My wife went over the handlebars of her bicycle resulting in a double concussion an damaged optical nerve etc. It changes our lives big time 😯
It would be great if you make practical video on these topics. Coz its sometimes hard to understand for new riders what u trying to tell. Ppl like us who had trained with you got it easily. Waiting for these topics practical videos.
Wow, that was good. Quickly made but not all over the place and with an original concept. I can't wait for the riser video, I personally hate them and I think a lot of people should remove theirs
@@thetessellater9163I did not included my exception because I wanted to keep my comments simple. To make a context, I am 23 and 6'3" and I like bar with little sweep, lower than average with no riser. I would maybe suggest riser to someone that is either over 6'5", over 50 years old, badly out of shape or just lazy AF. For example, you at 6'6" might need some, but I would not recommend more than a inch or two unless you fill other boxes. My experience is that close to stock is perfect for almost everyone when they have proper body position. Personally, I'm so tall that with my setup, I cannot stand up straight with my hand on the bar. However, when I keep my knee flexed a little and my back straight, it feel perfect for agressive riding. Here lies the problem. I think most people using riser assume that standing up should be absolutely effortless, while the reality is that you have to spend some energy to keep the optimal position for maximum skill. However, if someone cannot do this due to health problems or old age, I get it. If you're just lazy, I have a problem. Finally, I would like to add that in almost every situation, lower pegs is a superior alternative to bar riser since they help you keeping your center of gravity low without flexing your knee as much, it doesn't push the bar backwards, it make gripping the bike with knees easier for tall people and it make the sitting to standing transition less exhausting. And of course, I don't use them either ;)
Re: risers and general handlebar setup. This is a difficult thing for people with a new bike, or maybe newish riders with a new bike. Addressing personal body dimensions and stats plus the range of handlebar configurations and riser height, pitch and position… it’s insanely complex. So I’m looking forward to your take on how anyone in particular can convert all the data into some kind of knowledge that transforms into any sort of wisdom on this very specific, yet huge but (should be) simple aspect of bike set up. >whew
Looking forward to the explanations about position and risers. Being 1.93 (6”3) I am just that tad uncomfortable standing up on my T7, but I like the active attack stance on other moments. Can’t make up my mind.
It's interesting. When do we change from the numbers to feel and instinct? I feel it's when I'm focused on the environment ahead/around me. Not on the bike.
Hey Bret, I know this is an older vid, but I’ve got a question. I understand why risers aren’t always necessary, especially on a GS/GSA. But when WOULD they be necessary on the same bikes? Does it have anything to do with height? I’m almost 6’1 and have a taller torso. I feel like I’m hunching more than I should be with the stock risers. I’ve rolled the bars a bit forward as well…
I’m 6’-2” and must have bar risers and lowered pegs on both my GSA and DR650. I simply cannot stand on the pegs without them (look like a gorilla humping a football without). It’s not safe to be forced to bend too much to stand. But thanks, anyways. 😎
I believe Brets always said risers can be helpful to those over 6' or 6' 1+ I'd encourage you to watch all of Bret's video's as he is a fantastic teacher.
I am also 6'2" with longer legs. I am 65 years old and in good shape, but it's always lowered pegs and bar risers to be able to ride comfortably. A couple of years ago I purchased a new 2020 Husky FE501s which is a smallish bike and riding that thing stock was very uncomfortable and awkward. I also like to ride standing up and be comfortable and that is a bit of a compromise because I am a little bit back for very high speed riding standing up due to the wind blast on my torso. I am talking 60+mph so really not an issue. I don't seem to have any problems on technical terrain though. I love Bret's videos. Agree that he is a great teacher.
Thanks for noticing the two different types of rideras: intuitive or by rule. Belly or head. I think teaching head types is very difficult, because your head reacts a lot slower than your gut feeling. Cheers from Nürnberg/Bavaria, Günter
I am having a bit of trouble on my bike. It's not an adventure bike per se, more of a street scrambler (ftr 1200) with taller handle bars that I'm using as such. I am considering getting risers because even with the taller handlebars i am still forced to lean forward and putting my weight over the bars. I am 6'1 with pretty long limbs so i think that's forcing me to do that.
Bret, what do you recommend in lieu of risers if after putting on barkbusters and tilting the bars to a comfortable, neutral position for a seated and standing position, now the bar ends contacts tank? thanks
When I get into that weightless rider position, it feels like I'm way too far forward. Like it would be very easy for me to go over the handlebars if the bike bogs down. I find it a little unnerving. Does this sound right?
I ride a 650 KLR. I’m 6’5”. I’ve lowered my foot pegs and raised my stock bars by 2”. If and when I stand if I’m totally in a upright position my fingers onl will touch the bars but not enough to grip. If I grip the bars I’m folded at the waist and my back starts hurting. Any ideas? I thought about raising my bars even more
I think a bit of bend is necessary. If you're standing straight up, it's going to be hard to get in a good aggressive position for unstable terrain. You might try bending knees some, and when you bend at the waist, instead of curving your back forward, keep your back straight and hinge at the hips. Initially it'll take more muscles in the glute and leg, but it's a strong position.
Characteristically great video - i am surprised that you did not use any diagrams or actually get on a stationary bike/show examples while riding to illustrate what you are saying….
Interestingly Chris Birch (KTM guru) is also not a fan of handlebar risers. He is some 6ft so he isn't short at all. He considers that riders create a weak riding position for the rider. He much prefers the "attack position" and most bikes don't require risers even for tallish riders. Who am I to contradict someone like Chris Birch or indeed Bret Tkacs.
Motorcycle "FIT" is a personal body specific thing. To say you don't like risers is like saying you don't like pivot pegs. It is a personal thing. Manufacturers produce a frame/cockpit to fit a body average. A normal bolt thru bar riser raises the bar but also positions the bar closer to the rider. A pivoting riser like ROX allows a repositioning of taller and more forward reach A rider with a body height of 6'2" cannot possibly be comfortable or efficient on a bike with ergos set up for a rider 5'3". Set you bike up the way you feel comfortable. Love your channel but disagree on this point.
I’ve taken a ton of classes in undergraduate school, my MBA, and professional development after college was over…and with all of that, I don’t think I have ever taken a course from such a concise, detailed, and entertaining communicator as Bret Tkacs. Two thumbs up.
This was one of your harder videos to listen to. I think you could have condensed this a lot more succinctly. But as always, the content is valuable and we are better for it.
Do you ever take on riders that can’t afford your class ? Maybe I could raise money for charity or something? Edit: never mind sounds like you’re pretty packed with paying students, I’ll keep an ear out in case that’s ever not the case
This was a video produced for Patreon supporters at the beginning of 2021.
Hi Bret, I've been watching your videos for a while now, motorcycles have been my life for over 30 years. I'm riding a GS1250 right now, so your videos have even more meaning for me:) What you describe in this video is something I experienced right up to the GS and I still remember the moment I said YES! This is it!!! Now I feel like I'm finally in tune with my bike :) And I'll describe how it happened to me....helped me to do it on a long offroad road where there were holes about 5 meters apart that I tried to avoid while riding. So I was going about 50km/h, at the beginning I was leaning the bike sideways with force and actually fighting with it like a little kid. But then I realised it was completely unnecessary, I got into a better position, remembered how to elbow sideways. And suddenly the bike was actually floating beautifully left and right under my body...it cost me almost no energy, but the feeling was priceless. I don't know if I described it well, I don't speak 100% English but I hope I did it right :) Good luck. @DaveBiker from Czech Republic
Brother you're talking about what they call in Japan, and Karate, Mushin. In karate you learn, learn, and learn forms and technique, so that one day you get to a point you don't need any of that. You have learned the underlying methodology of the specific techniques so completely, giving you the ability to apply it in all situations. Not just the specific ones you've studied. I believe this is what you are talking about. Motorcycle riding is not unlike martial arts in many ways. Bruce Lee called it being like water. Very cool. Looking forward to more videos!
Thanks for this Bret. As a married man, my takeway from this video is what I’ve always known: that every time something bad happens to my wife, it is always my fault 🙂
😂... Always
Wives are “blameless”.
Makes sense and that’s how I interpreted the initial “weightless rider” videos. Body position vs WEIGHT loading. It’s how I remember my motocross training from the ‘70’s. 👍
To often we get caught up in what we think should look right. For me I have to be able to explain everything I do and why I do it
Thank you for clarifying that concept further. As a new(er) rider to offload environments, I definitely would take "over the handlebars" verbatim, but adding the caveats and keeping the neutral, "weightless" position WHILE over the bars, makes a great deal more sense. I hope Christina recovers quickly.
I’m sorry about Christina’s accident. We she gets well very soon.
Thanks for the lesson Bret.
Hey Bret, thank you for this interesting video.
The idea of a weightless rider is something I would love to start learning. If you could please explore this more in step-by-step exercises episodes, that could make a great content for your channel. 🙏👍 All the best!
Excellent video. The 'shoulders' over the bars is really helpful. I had been struggling with the whole chest over the bars and not feeling in control. ? Well... that explains it. Thanks heaps for all your great videos. Cheers, Simon, Australia.
Good conversation sir. So many variables affect the need for risers. But just being aware of those variables before blatantly modifying any part is critical important. Looking forward to more sir
This is so much like learning a good golf swing. Lots of little adjustments but when you put it all together, it works. As you were talking, I could feel myself running my favorite local rocky hill. Can't wait for spring to sharpen my skills!
Great video, thank you!
Funny thing is, this weightless rider idea harkens back to my horseback riding days. In equestrian endurance riding, one has to stand in the stirrups, grip with the knees, allowing the horse to “float” underneath the rider. All the while hauling butt over uneven trails. Single tracks.
Exactly the same principles!
Excellent redux on the the update explanation of being over the bars that is SO much a learned feeling that you do not get for a while and especially over varied terrain experience. I tried risers on my bike and removed them right after hitting some challenging terrain I usually ride and definitely NOT liking how it did set my position more backward than expected. Naturally I have orangutan arms so I may be different than someone with normal arms and the risers actually help, as I am sure you will cover fully in additional vids. As always another informative video aimed at making us all better riders no matter the level. Thank you for all you do for the riding community. Be safe my friend.
Your videos are always worth my time to watch!
Great info. This is where my dirt bike training comes in handy. Keep the hips loose and weight off the bars. I found that i had no issues on the Multistrada and now my Africa Twin off road when using mostly the same riding style i use on my dirt bikes.
Brett great video but add to this body types mesomorphic , ectomorphic , etc , long arms , short legs arms , disabilities , physical strengths , mind sets , confidence , different bikes , you have many episodes to talk to us about I’m going to have to sign up as a supporter
I just saw exactly what you are saying in action on the dakar posts from riders today....perfectly described....now....how to get my mind to communicate to my body what I totally understand from what you've said and what I see!!!! LOL. Do appreciate this greatly.
I really like the way Chris Birch talks about this in his video series. It's more "get low, push the hips back".
Makes sense….staying weightless and in control….I liked your description of “hips above ankles, shoulders forward but behind the steering axis”…goes along with what you talk about with elbow and hand positioning 👍🏼
This guy is incredible. When affordable, booking a ride with PSSOR is a priority.
sadly in europe not possible
Excellent video. I had the same experience a few weeks ago. Came down a steep hill in to serious deep mud and loaded the front wheel. When the whelk tucked I went a flying. Luckily I wasn’t seriously hurt. The bike took some damage but in all it was a great time and great lesson.
Reminds me of teaching alpine skiing. Suddenly there were these realizations of things I was doing subconsciously that make a big difference. I'll keep taking my KLR down green trails for now
Looking forward to the videos! I remember watching some Ryan Hughes' videos where he talks about 'separation' between the upper body and the lower body and having the hips out...and i think that's what u were getting at too 🙏
Great video and get your stance on bar risers. Very seriously thinking of removing them from my F800GSA, but 20mm minimum is needed on the F850GSA in order for hand guards to clear the tank. I have about 3mm clearance using Touratech handguards and 20mm risers. Keep the great videos coming.
I am a new to off-road, two year rider on an Africa Twin, who has followed your channel, and I did misinterpret that past tip. Two of my most jarring falls, as I look back, might have been caused by being too far forward, over the bars, my butt was not hanging back distributing my weight to the rear. I’m the recent past, I bought a CRF250L and watch lots of dirt and enduro videos, and had discovered more of what you meant. I am sure if I saw a video of myself riding I would have realized how upright I was standing, when I should have been leaning forward at the waist sticking my butt out the rear. I have been moving back to the Africa twin again, and seem to be having better control now. All that is lacking at this point is a bit of confidence, as I mostly ride alone, and am unable to pick up the Africa twin by myself. I have slowed down, and am thinking things through more carefully. I look forward to learning more about this
As always fantastic content ! Thanks!
Thank you for that clarification. I kept feeling my weight on my wrists on the bars if I tried to be "over them" and always struggle to find a position that feels natural and in control. Want to try and take these ideas into practice before I try fiddling with risers.
Good clarification. I was also taking the earlier advice too literally so this feels much better
I crashed in the exact same way you describe Christina crashing. Happened to me last Saturday on rough twin trails and two weeks before on single track. I am typing this with a sprained wrist and swollen finger. Thankfully proper gear saved me from more damage. Both crashes happened AFTER I put risers. I am 6' 1" and ride the KTM Adventure 390. I am pretty convinced now that I will have to take the risers off.
Thanks Bret, looking forward to the bike ergonomics setup videos, I find depending on the bike that weightless is difficult as older bikes were not designed with such ergonomic riding positions, such as a BMW R80 GS, zero tank grip with the knees, I also have found this with my 2007 BMW F650 Dakar, where steep hills is impossible to use the two finger grip on the bars. The WR250R is just perfect for weightless riding...different ergonomics.
MTB is great for body weighting positions..... nice explanations, thank you, cheers V!
Yes Bret this makes a lot of since to me. I would love to see you other video on this. I have just got a CRF300L Rally and am not sure if positioning of the bars and controls are correct. I got the bike in November so I have only got 114 mile on it so far because of snow. Thanks for what you do.
You should consider what happens in a rugby scrum: the second row is practicly paralel to the ground, but he does not push with the weight but with the legs when he is allowed. It is sort of what you are trying to convey. I really like your channel and how you explain
Thanks for sharing this Bret! There’s a short video of Marc Marquez about to high-side and he really becomes the “weightless rider” but somehow his forearms hold on. Yeah - sometimes you have to fall to understand the physics ha. Hope she’s back on the horse! 👌🏼
A video with you showing riding positions on a bike without farings, aka dirt or light adventure, would be beneficial because we can see your body movement compared to the geometry of the bike, terrain, and suspension reactions.
I suggest further breaking it down with drawing lines from foot pegs through hips, steering stem through shoulders, etc. To show how we are riding to use/ augment our bikes suspension/ handling.
Can be a nice Segway into setting up bikes to meet your size/weight/ use.
Most non-riders have no idea how much we move on a bike. They tend to think we just sit and twist a throttle.
Love your videos Bret....on the subject of getting over the handlebars: I own a Honda Rally 250 and I really try to get that weight over the bars (but not too much) on steep inclines...but is there a trick to not having to feel like I'm holding on too tight (so much so that I really feel it in my forearms). I have watched earlier videos of yours were you discuss having a light grip on the bars and I do this on flat and slight inclines but when hitting the the steep stuff I find my grip having to get tighter and tighter, gravity pulling me back down the bike and me having to counter it by leaning forward even more...perhaps too much over the bars and straining my forearms. Any remedy? I do try and squeeze my legs into the side of the bike/gas tank, but the Rally is pretty narrow so gripping my legs is quite a bit of effort. Thanks if you can offer some suggestions...
I look forward to more in-depth discussion about risers and body position. I’ll go back and watch the video you did in standing position. The 2017 VStrom DL650 moved the handlebars a little forward and down. When I ride with them in that position, I find myself (6’) leaning forward with weight on my wrists while sitting on the bike. Very uncomfortable for rides an hour or longer for me. So I put risers on. That doesn’t mean that I positioned the bars correctly with risers. I have trouble standing and being over the handlebars (i.e., balanced) when riding up a slope. Of course, my tank bag is also partly to blame so I’m making changes to eliminate that. I’m registered in your October course in GA, so I look forward to this old guy learning new tricks.
The V-strom NEEDS new handlebars to feel proper standing. It is very street focused. You may also need short risers on the bike. I suggest switching to a "fat" dirt style bar. The adapter will provide a slight rise and the dirt bars will provide more space and better wrist angles.
Really great video and good breakdown of the body positioning... Filled some blanks for me.
Good... I sometimes have to be reminded to fill in the blanks. What is obvious to me isn't always obvious.
great idea, it would really help to see it as you are standing on the bike.
I need to remake this one with proper visuals
So tuck in but make sure that when you're over the handlebars, you compensate for that possible front weight loading with your back and butt leaned farther back to achieve "weightlessness"?
I wonder if lightweight riders have an advantage/disadvantage wrt this instruction - I'm 45kgs and on a 120kg motorcycle and I actually find that weighting the front works better to handle the bike Vs feeling weightless and feeling like I'll get thrown off.
I love the weightless rider concept and utilize it frequently, however there are certain times when weighting a side or a rear or front tire is exactly what you need to do. I'd love to see a video from you on this topic.
I try to ride my bike in a similar way to riding a horse - you have to anticipate the movement the animal will make, but you must also feel what's going on underneath you as you go along and react smoothly and instinctively to maintain balance. This approach has worked for me so far. Sorry for those of you who have never ridden a horse - useless analogy. Basically, there's no substitute for time in the saddle, and get to know your own horse - steel or organic 👍
Best wishes and a speedy healing for Christina. If it's a fracture of the scaphoid bone, make sure that it is stabilized correctly (usually surgically), otherwise it won't heal (necrosis) and it would cause long term problems of the wrist (arthritis).
An observation on shoulder position relative to fork angle. Seems like "in line with the forks" might be a better description than "OVER the handlebars"
Well received, thank you!
I was working on this on the weekend. One point Of interest was going from seated to standing. I noticed when I moved to standing I wasn’t getting straight over the bars and if this occurred just prior to entering a corner, the bike balance wasn’t the best. Bad habits are hard to break. Thanks for your insights.
Im 6'4" with Tenere700 and no risers in the handlebars....
Hips over ankle shoulder are front of hips but behind steering axis
A year ago My wife went over the handlebars of her bicycle resulting in a double concussion an damaged optical nerve etc. It changes our lives big time 😯
It would be great if you make practical video on these topics.
Coz its sometimes hard to understand for new riders what u trying to tell.
Ppl like us who had trained with you got it easily.
Waiting for these topics practical videos.
Wow, that was good. Quickly made but not all over the place and with an original concept.
I can't wait for the riser video, I personally hate them and I think a lot of people should remove theirs
Even those of 6' 6" in height??
@@thetessellater9163I did not included my exception because I wanted to keep my comments simple.
To make a context, I am 23 and 6'3" and I like bar with little sweep, lower than average with no riser. I would maybe suggest riser to someone that is either over 6'5", over 50 years old, badly out of shape or just lazy AF. For example, you at 6'6" might need some, but I would not recommend more than a inch or two unless you fill other boxes.
My experience is that close to stock is perfect for almost everyone when they have proper body position. Personally, I'm so tall that with my setup, I cannot stand up straight with my hand on the bar. However, when I keep my knee flexed a little and my back straight, it feel perfect for agressive riding.
Here lies the problem. I think most people using riser assume that standing up should be absolutely effortless, while the reality is that you have to spend some energy to keep the optimal position for maximum skill. However, if someone cannot do this due to health problems or old age, I get it. If you're just lazy, I have a problem.
Finally, I would like to add that in almost every situation, lower pegs is a superior alternative to bar riser since they help you keeping your center of gravity low without flexing your knee as much, it doesn't push the bar backwards, it make gripping the bike with knees easier for tall people and it make the sitting to standing transition less exhausting. And of course, I don't use them either ;)
Re: risers and general handlebar setup. This is a difficult thing for people with a new bike, or maybe newish riders with a new bike. Addressing personal body dimensions and stats plus the range of handlebar configurations and riser height, pitch and position… it’s insanely complex. So I’m looking forward to your take on how anyone in particular can convert all the data into some kind of knowledge that transforms into any sort of wisdom on this very specific, yet huge but (should be) simple aspect of bike set up.
>whew
I have to watch this again because I was distracted by the fact that the video is mirrored. Why would you do that?
Looking forward to the explanations about position and risers. Being 1.93 (6”3) I am just that tad uncomfortable standing up on my T7, but I like the active attack stance on other moments. Can’t make up my mind.
It's hard to understand for me... I'll watch the follow up video. Thanks for all the info!
It's interesting. When do we change from the numbers to feel and instinct? I feel it's when I'm focused on the environment ahead/around me. Not on the bike.
Just wondering why the video is flipped horizontally plus the constant refocussing drove me crazy?
Hey Bret, I know this is an older vid, but I’ve got a question. I understand why risers aren’t always necessary, especially on a GS/GSA. But when WOULD they be necessary on the same bikes? Does it have anything to do with height? I’m almost 6’1 and have a taller torso. I feel like I’m hunching more than I should be with the stock risers. I’ve rolled the bars a bit forward as well…
I hope I answered you question in my last video about risers
Ah yes, the mystical ghost rider, light as air with no resistance
Thanks Bret!
Sounds like your talking about hinging from the hips to transfer weight back and forward?
I’m 6’-2” and must have bar risers and lowered pegs on both my GSA and DR650. I simply cannot stand on the pegs without them (look like a gorilla humping a football without). It’s not safe to be forced to bend too much to stand. But thanks, anyways. 😎
I believe Brets always said risers can be helpful to those over 6' or 6' 1+ I'd encourage you to watch all of Bret's video's as he is a fantastic teacher.
I am also 6'2" with longer legs. I am 65 years old and in good shape, but it's always lowered pegs and bar risers to be able to ride comfortably. A couple of years ago I purchased a new 2020 Husky FE501s which is a smallish bike and riding that thing stock was very uncomfortable and awkward. I also like to ride standing up and be comfortable and that is a bit of a compromise because I am a little bit back for very high speed riding standing up due to the wind blast on my torso. I am talking 60+mph so really not an issue. I don't seem to have any problems on technical terrain though. I love Bret's videos. Agree that he is a great teacher.
Thanks for noticing the two different types of rideras: intuitive or by rule. Belly or head. I think teaching head types is very difficult, because your head reacts a lot slower than your gut feeling. Cheers from Nürnberg/Bavaria, Günter
Great video. Thanks! You certainly have a gift for explaining complicated concepts in a direct and understandable manner. Much appreciated!!!
I am having a bit of trouble on my bike. It's not an adventure bike per se, more of a street scrambler (ftr 1200) with taller handle bars that I'm using as such. I am considering getting risers because even with the taller handlebars i am still forced to lean forward and putting my weight over the bars. I am 6'1 with pretty long limbs so i think that's forcing me to do that.
Bret’s vids; where biking technique meets good pedagogy!
I will keep working at it, I aim for andragogy
maybe some sort of graphic or image for reference? that'd be greatly appreciated...I appreciate your videos
Bret, what do you recommend in lieu of risers if after putting on barkbusters and tilting the bars to a comfortable, neutral position for a seated and standing position, now the bar ends contacts tank? thanks
When I get into that weightless rider position, it feels like I'm way too far forward. Like it would be very easy for me to go over the handlebars if the bike bogs down. I find it a little unnerving. Does this sound right?
Weightless riding, its the same feeling i got when i slapped my creditcard down on a new GS. It only lasted for a moment.
🤣
I ride a 650 KLR. I’m 6’5”. I’ve lowered my foot pegs and raised my stock bars by 2”. If and when I stand if I’m totally in a upright position my fingers onl will touch the bars but not enough to grip. If I grip the bars I’m folded at the waist and my back starts hurting. Any ideas? I thought about raising my bars even more
I think a bit of bend is necessary. If you're standing straight up, it's going to be hard to get in a good aggressive position for unstable terrain. You might try bending knees some, and when you bend at the waist, instead of curving your back forward, keep your back straight and hinge at the hips. Initially it'll take more muscles in the glute and leg, but it's a strong position.
Characteristically great video - i am surprised that you did not use any diagrams or actually get on a stationary bike/show examples while riding to illustrate what you are saying….
I plan to so a proper remake of this one... This was a simple rant
Right on! 👍
Can you explain when risers ARE appropriate? On and off road
I will get a video together sooner than later.
Interestingly Chris Birch (KTM guru) is also not a fan of handlebar risers. He is some 6ft so he isn't short at all. He considers that riders create a weak riding position for the rider.
He much prefers the "attack position" and most bikes don't require risers even for tallish riders. Who am I to contradict someone like Chris Birch or indeed Bret Tkacs.
Your Marmot and 1200GS are backwards?
Motorcycle "FIT" is a personal body specific thing. To say you don't like risers is like saying you don't like pivot pegs. It is a personal thing. Manufacturers produce a frame/cockpit to fit a body average. A normal bolt thru bar riser raises the bar but also positions the bar closer to the rider. A pivoting riser like ROX allows a repositioning of taller and more forward reach A rider with a body height of 6'2" cannot possibly be comfortable or efficient on a bike with ergos set up for a rider 5'3". Set you bike up the way you feel comfortable. Love your channel but disagree on this point.
It turns out I don't care for pivot pegs either 🤔😬😂
Nothing crashes me more than going too slow.
Sorry for the injury....
This is a year old video but her wrist is still bothering her. It didn't stop her from riding through Nepal though 😀
@@BretTkacs yeah I noticed the date, but I did not know about the injury
What is that device behind you? Kinda looks like a Tesla coil.... Probably a space heater.....
I’ve taken a ton of classes in undergraduate school, my MBA, and professional development after college was over…and with all of that, I don’t think I have ever taken a course from such a concise, detailed, and entertaining communicator as Bret Tkacs. Two thumbs up.
No helmelt-Hat transition no video!
Are we in a time warp?
It is a year old Patreon video that was just released to the public
Hope Christinas bone heals quickly.
It's 2022 actually
This was just made public from the Patreon supporter archives, it is a year old already 😁
This was one of your harder videos to listen to. I think you could have condensed this a lot more succinctly. But as always, the content is valuable and we are better for it.
That's because this was an unedited rant made for Patreon supporters a year ago. After a year I will sometimes make them public.
AaaHmmm correction it's 2022....You must be thinking something else in your mind
This video is actually 1 year old but just released to the public from the Patreon video archives
Wow
Do you ever take on riders that can’t afford your class ? Maybe I could raise money for charity or something?
Edit: never mind sounds like you’re pretty packed with paying students, I’ll keep an ear out in case that’s ever not the case
It means I don't have anymore good content so I'm just going to waste your time with some click bait!
Your video is inverted
tomɿɒM