Images: Gaurav S Thombre
There are three things that are foremost in a bike enthusiast’s list – a wheelie, a stoppie… and a burnout. That’s how we began the third part of our ABC of Stunting series. In the fourth part, it’s time to slip and slide. The slide is one of the most spectacular motorcycle stunts there is. It is also probably the only stunting technique that comes in handy while racing motorcycles. Don’t believe us? Google, flat track racing or just watch what the boys are doing in Moto 2 and Moto 3 as they go on the brakes. It’s spectacular stuff. It isn’t difficult to think of enthusiasts who aspire to do this. The only thing that stops them from going out and doing it is the lack of knowledge and training.
It looks great but is difficult to master. Spills are guaranteed in the learning phase. Naturally, you need to be protected well enough to be able to make it to your next slide. Goes without saying that you will need to have a proper helmet on, along with proper riding gear so that you’re well protected. Also, do not do it on public roads. Use a private track. Normally we use the safety of Pune’s Indi Karting track but burnouts and slides are not meant to be done on a track. So we chose the controlled environment of a private property with zero traffic. With that, let’s get down to business.
The basic slide
Pro-tip #1
Like in the case of a burnout, tyres get spoilt trying to get a motorcycle to slide. Also, new tyres on rough concrete or tarmac makes it difficult to break traction. Either try practicing on polished concrete or see if you can lay your hands on slightly older tyres that are worn out.
Pro-tip #2
The basic steps of a slide remain the same on dirt. However, with dirt, since traction levels are already low it takes less effort and speed to get the bike to slide.
The drift
Pro-tip #3
The Bajaj Pulsar NS200 comes shod with 100/80 rubber on the front and 130/70 rubber on the rear. The tubeless tyres on the 17-inch wheels are great for all sorts of stuff on tarmac. You can also upgrade to knobby tyres to get more grip on dirt.
The power slide
Pro-tip #4
Power slides are best done on dirt since the lower traction level makes things easy. Also, it’s better if you can find a turn with some nice run off to practice this stunt.
Done reading? Now watch and learn how to slide in our video here.