Riding motocross on sand brings a thrilling, adrenaline-fueled experience that can challenge even the most seasoned of riders. Loads of visitors to Willowbank MX love the freedom of blasting through sandy trails, the thrill of loose terrain shifting under your bike, and the power it takes to conquer each turn and dune – it’s the kind of challenge that gets your heart pumping.

But as exhilarating as sand riding is, it does require specific techniques, bike setups and a little extra care to keep things safe and fun. If you’re ready to unleash your inner beast and take on the sand like a pro, dive into these essential tips that will set you up for success on the sand track!

1. Tyre choice: Grip those grains

Sand-specific tyres: When riding on soft, shifting surfaces, you may want to think about equipping your bike with paddle or soft-terrain tyres. These tyres have deep, spaced-out knobs that help grip the sand and improve your flotation through the sand, giving you better traction and control.

Tyre pressure: Lowering tire pressure a little helps with traction, but don’t overdo it! Keep it low enough for grip but high enough to avoid pinch flats that can quickly end your day at the park.

2. Suspension setup: Smooth and steady

Adjust for softer terrain: Sand naturally cushions your ride, so adjust your suspension’s rebound and compression damping to account for this. Increased rebound helps reduce being bounced around too much, while a smoother compression setting keeps you from bottoming out.

Sag adjustment: Keep your sag in check – this adjustment provides extra control and helps the front wheel stay stable when riding in shifting sand.

3. Body position: Balance is everything

Stay centred or rearward: Shifting your weight toward the back helps prevent the front wheel from digging in, improves stability and handling, and stops you from eating dirt for lunch.

Stand on the pegs: Standing gives you more responsive control over your bike, allowing it to pivot and move under you as you navigate sand-filled trails and hills. You’ll feel more in control and agile on uneven terrain. 

4. Throttle control: Keep the power steady

Stay on the throttle: Sand is notorious for bogging bikes down. By keeping steady power, you’ll maintain momentum and reduce the chance of getting stuck. 

Smooth throttle adjustments: Abrupt acceleration can dig the rear wheel into the sand, so it’s essential to apply power smoothly to keep moving without losing control or creating a big rut to get yourself stuck in.

5. Braking technique: Rear braking is key

The rear brake is your mate: Sand isn’t as forgiving with front braking – it can quickly bury the front wheel and throw you off balance (or off your bike). Use the rear brake primarily and consider engine braking to keep things controlled.

Engine braking: This technique slows you down gently without the abruptness that can lead to a fishtail in the sand.

6. Momentum and speed: Keep the flow happening, man

Maintain speed: The secret to sand riding? Don’t slow down unless you want to stop or get bogged! Sand can drain momentum fast, so keep a steady speed to glide over soft patches without getting stuck.

Avoid sharp turns: Sand doesn’t lend itself well to tight direction changes. Opt for sweeping turns, which will help maintain your balance and speed helping you to flow smoothly through the track without losing momentum or control.

7. Line choice and awareness: Read the track

Look for firm sand patches: If possible, stick to packed trails or firmer sand for better grip and stability.

Watch for obstacles: Sand can shift from one day to the next, and if you’re riding in the dunes, they can hide unexpected drops or obstacles. Stay aware and scan the terrain ahead to adjust your line as needed.

8. Bike cooling and maintenance: Keep your cool

Check your air filters regularly: Sand is tough on air filters, so clean and oil them before every ride to ensure you get the best from your engine performance. 

Monitor your engine temperature: Sand riding is demanding on your bike’s motor, so watch the temperature, especially on slower or more technical sections.

9. Physical endurance: Prepare for a workout – no, seriously... it’s tough work

Upper body and core strength: Sand riding demands more upper body strength and core endurance than hard-packed dirt tracks. Work on these areas to keep your form strong through every turn. After a day on the dunes, you will really start to appreciate how difficult something like the Dakar Rally truly is.

Hydration and nutrition: Sand tracks can be intense and tiring, so stay hydrated and keep your energy up with balanced meals and snacks, water and sports drinks.

10. Practise sand-specific: Refine your skills

Feather the clutch: For better control in technical sandy sections, feather the clutch to maintain balance without losing too much traction.

Smooth inputs: Sudden movements can destabilise your bike on the sand, so keep every input – throttle, brake and steering – as smooth as possible.

Ready to embrace the sand?

Mastering the art of sand riding isn’t just about getting from point A to point B – it’s about pushing your limits, building resilience and experiencing the raw, exhilarating beauty of motocross in a unique setting. 

With the proper setup, a solid technique and a dash of adrenaline, you’ll soon be carving up the sand like a seasoned pro. Whether you’re racing, trail riding or just out for a fun day, these tips will help you ride safer, smarter and with all the thrill sand riding offers. 

So, gear up, get on the throttle, and let’s kick up some sand!