Mastering Riverbed Riding in Vietnam: Dirt Bike Training with Kavin
Mastering Riverbed Riding: Lessons from Vietnam’s Tough Trails
Riding through Vietnam’s wild trails after a typhoon is no joke — the rocks are slick, the rivers run high, and the line between balance and disaster is razor-thin. In this session, Kavin took on a tough rocky riverbed as part of our Vietnam dirt bike training program, and there were plenty of learning moments worth sharing.
1. Choosing the Right Line
When you’re faced with a rocky riverbed, every line matters. Early in the ride, Kavin wasn’t focusing much on his line choice or avoiding larger rocks, and it led to his chain coming off. A small lapse like this can turn an already tough section into a battle.
Pro Tip: Always plan your line before you enter a tricky section. Look for smoother rock surfaces or spots with better traction, and commit to that path.
2. Regaining Momentum After a Stop
Once you lose momentum on slippery rocks, getting moving again can be the hardest part. Kavin showed a great technique here — rocking his weight from back to front to help the rear wheel bite and regain traction.
That subtle shift helps load and unload the suspension, letting the tire grab just enough grip to move forward.
3. Low Revs and Steady Throttle = Traction
One of the most valuable dirt bike skills is traction management. Notice how Kavin kept the revs low, letting the engine lug smoothly over the rocks. This reduces wheel spin and helps maintain control on unpredictable terrain.
He also held steady throttle when balancing on the rocks — preventing the bike from rolling backward or losing balance. This technique is a cornerstone of enduro riding.
4. Building Power for Obstacles
When it was time to climb a rock ledge, Kavin loaded up the flywheel before releasing a burst of power — a perfect enduro power delivery move. That controlled “pop” gave him enough drive to clear the obstacle, even though it almost threw him off the back!
The lesson here? Use your clutch and throttle together to preload the engine before a quick burst. It’s what separates smooth riders from those who get stuck mid-climb.
5. Line Choice, Revisited
Later on, Kavin faced another section where line choice was key. By taking a few seconds to scan the terrain, he could have cut across the rocks earlier and avoided the deep holes.
A good eye for terrain doesn’t just make a ride easier — it saves energy and reduces wear on both the rider and the bike.
6. Using Throttle Blips for repositioning
Short, controlled blips of throttle can help lift or reposition the front wheel — ideal for adjusting your approach mid-obstacle. In this case, Kavin (and even I) hesitated, which made clearing the obstacle tougher. Sometimes, you simply have to commit fully and trust your balance and throttle.
7. Finishing the Trail: Low Revs, Steady Momentum
The final section was like riding on ice. But low revs, smooth throttle, and steady momentum carried Kavin to the top. These are exactly the fundamentals we emphasize during our Vietnam dirt bike training and tours — staying relaxed, keeping traction, and reading the terrain.
Train and Ride with Us in Vietnam
Whether you’re learning to handle rocky riverbeds or want to experience Vietnam’s stunning off-road trails, our dirt bike training and guided tours are designed for all levels. Ride through rivers, jungles, and mountain passes while building real-world enduro skills.
