domingo, 13 de janeiro de 2019


How to Become an Extra in a Movie

Posted: 13 Jan 2019 12:00 AM PST

What do Clint Eastwood, Brad Pitt, and Marilyn Monroe all have in common, besides the fact that they're all super successful actors? They all started their acting careers as extras. If you hope to follow in their footsteps or if you simply think hanging out on a movie set while making a little money would be fun, consider becoming an extra. Put together a portfolio, search for local casting calls, then break a leg on the big screen!

EditSteps

EditBuilding Your Portfolio

  1. Get a professional headshot taken for your portfolio. It can be from the waist up or from the shoulders up. Keep it simple and clean by choosing a solid-colored top, neat hairstyle, and minimal makeup if you wear it. Remember that a headshot isn't about looking pretty, it's about looking natural, so don't wear heavy makeup or edit your photo too much.[1]
    Become an Extra in a Movie Step 1 Version 2.jpg
    • While you're having your headshot done, ask the photographer to take a few full body shots, too. Casting agencies often request these.
    • Good headshots can cost anywhere from $400 to $1,200.
    • If you're on a budget, look for beginner photographers who sometimes offer free or discounted sessions. Or ask one of your friends to take the photos for you. shot.

      Don't send a photo that's too suggestive or casual. Leave the low-cut shirts, overdone makeup, and selfies at home.

      Don't wear distracting patterns or accessories. You want the focus to be on your face.}}
  2. Create an up-to-date resume highlighting your skills and experience. List your most recent or most relevant experience first. For example, if you're applying for an extra job for a film, put any film experience you have at the top. Include any special training or skills you have, too, like music, dance, or even an awesome English accent.[2]
    Become an Extra in a Movie Step 2 Version 2.jpg
    • Always put your measurements and physical stats like weight and height somewhere on your resume.
    • If you don't have any professional experience, write down anything you did in college, like plays you performed in or a theater troupe you were a part of.
    • Attach your resume to your headshot. You can even print your resume directly on the back of an photo.
  3. Design a website to show off your past work if you have experience. Include a bio detailing who you are and your experience, a page with contact information, and a gallery of the roles you've played. Include performance shots, embedded reels, or stills from any movies or TV shows you've been in.[3]
    Become an Extra in a Movie Step 3 Version 2.jpg
    • You can send the link to your website when you respond to casting calls so directors can get a bigger picture of what you have to offer.
    • Upload your resume to your website along with your headshots to keep everything in one place.
    • Register a custom domain for your website using your name, like "johnsmith.com," for example. This will cost an annual fee of about $10 to $15. Or make a free website on Wordpress or a similar blogging platform.
  4. Take classes to improve your skills if you don't have any experience. Make up for your lack of experience by mastering skills like getting into different characters or memorizing lines. Sign up for acting courses at a local college or drama school or take online classes. You can also join a drama troupe or improv team at your school or community center.[4]
    Become an Extra in a Movie Step 4 Version 2.jpg
    • List any courses or acting-related activities you do on your resume.
    • Working on your acting chops in your free time shows directors that you have ambition and a willingness to learn.
    • Look online to find classes or clubs in your area. Check with local theaters, too. They sometimes offer workshops or special courses.

EditFinding and Getting a Job

  1. Register with multiple casting services to help you land a gig. Casting services or agencies have inside access to open positions. Once you sign up, they'll keep your information on file and notify you when there's a role that may be a good fit for you.
    Become an Extra in a Movie Step 5 Version 2.jpg
    • The more places you're registered at, the more opportunities you'll have to get booked.
    • You may have to pay a $10 to $20 processing fee.
    • Central Casting is the largest casting agency in the industry. To find a casting agency in your area, google "casting agencies in Baltimore," for instance, if you live in Baltimore.[5]
  2. Apply to casting calls by sending your headshot and information. A standard casting call will require you to email photos of yourself along with a resume and/or basic details like your height, weight, and measurements. Make sure you follow whatever directions are given and send all of the necessary attachments or information.[6]
    Become an Extra in a Movie Step 6 Version 2.jpg
    • For example, if the casting call says "Please respond with the subject line 'Extras Casting,'" use that as your subject line. Directors want extras who can listen to instructions.
    • Don't lie or fudge numbers. Different projects need different body shapes, sizes, and heights. If you don't fit the requirements, don't apply.
    • Many agencies hold open casting calls at least once a month.
  3. Avoid scams by thoroughly researching an opportunity. If something sounds too good to be true, chances are it is. Call the phone number provided on the posting if there is one to get more information or ask friends and family in the industry if they've heard of the company or project. If you can't figure out if it's a scam, it's best to err on the side of caution and not pursue it.[7]
    Become an Extra in a Movie Step 7 Version 2.jpg
    • Phrases that make outrageous promises, like "Earn $400 in a day!" or "I can make you a star," are most likely a scam. Look for typos or spelling errors, too.
    • Scams are most common on public sites like Craigslist where anyone can post jobs.
  4. Focus on looking presentable and natural if you have to audition. Auditions, also known as look-sees, are rare for extras. However, if you are required to audition or attend an open casting call, remember it is all about your appearance. Wear a simple outfit you feel comfortable in and style your hair neatly.
    Become an Extra in a Movie Step 8 Version 2.jpg
    • You won't have to read lines or prepare any materials since extras don't have speaking roles.
    • Avoid wearing heavy makeup or anything that covers up your face or body. The point of an audition is for the director to decide if your appearance fits what they're looking for.
    • Don't take it personally if you don't get the role. Rejection is common for actors and extras, but keep in mind that directors need certain body shapes, sizes, and types for different roles. It has nothing to do with how "good" you are!
  5. Keep your schedule open while you wait to hear from directors. Filming dates and call times are rarely set very far in advance and can change in an instant. Having a flexible schedule is key in being a successful extra. That way you can be ready when a director calls you at 10 p.m. for a 7 a.m. shoot the following morning.[8]
    Become an Extra in a Movie Step 9 Version 2.jpg
    • If you have another job while you're trying to find work as an extra, talk to your current boss to see if they're okay with you needing time off on short notice.
    • You also never know how long a shoot will last. So if you have plans after a filming day, there's always a chance you will be stuck on set for 14 hours or more.

EditRocking Your First Day

  1. Show up to set at least 30 minutes before your call time. In the film world, the saying, "early is on time, on time is late, and late is unacceptable" is definitely true. Arrive early to figure out your way around the location and make a good first impression.[9]
    Become an Extra in a Movie Step 10 Version 2.jpg
    • When you arrive on set, check in with someone immediately so they know you're there. You'll often be reporting to the assistant director so try to find them.
    • Never be late to a filming. It's unprofessional and will hurt your chances of being called back.
  2. Follow all of the wardrobe, hair styling, and makeup instructions. Before you arrive, the director will let you know what to wear, how to style your hair, and how to do your makeup, if the company isn't providing it for you. If it's a law TV series, for instance, you may be asked to wear a tailored suit and sleek hair.[10]
    Become an Extra in a Movie Step 11 Version 2.jpg
    • For longer shoots, you may need to bring multiple outfits. Pack them in a garment bag along with the right shoes and accessories to keep them clean and organized.
    • If they are providing your outfit, like for a historical or sci-fi show, you'll likely have to arrive early to be dressed by the wardrobe department.
    • Always look as presentable and polished as possible. The better you look, the better your placement in the scene will be.
  3. Play your role correctly by blending in and not standing out. Now is not the time to try to steal the show. Directors will be more impressed with someone who plays their part the way it's supposed to be played. Do exactly as you're instructed and don't improvise.[11]
    Become an Extra in a Movie Step 12 Version 2.jpg
    • Even if you think adding an extra step or smile would make the scene better, don't do it. Everyone has a specific role for a reason and you've been hired to play yours as it is.
    • Never look at the camera directly or speak when the cameras are rolling.
  4. Network with other aspiring actors in between takes. When you aren't shooting, you'll likely be hanging out in what's called the holding area with the rest of the cast. Use that time to get to know your colleagues. Ask about their experiences in the industry or see if they have any advice they'd be willing to share on how to get a callback at an audition, for example.
    Become an Extra in a Movie Step 13 Version 2.jpg
    • Chat with the production assistant, director, or assistant director if you can. They're the ones who can open the most doors for you and have the power to bring you back for another project if they like you.[12]
  5. Act professionally at all times. Remember that this is a job and if you want to continue working in the industry, you don't want to burn any bridges by behaving poorly on set. Be respectful of the crew and the lead actors and always listen to the director's orders.[13]
    Become an Extra in a Movie Step 14 Version 2.jpg
    • Don't leak any details of what was filmed. Even telling your best friend about the scene you shot could be breaking your contract.
    • Taking pictures is often forbidden and cameras will be confiscated. That means no selfies, either!

EditVideo

EditTips

  • Don't forget to include your phone number and email address on your resume.
  • Be wary of non-paying extra work. Many productions will attempt to book extras with no pay even when they have the budget to pay them.
  • Know your rights. You may be eligible for pay increases if the conditions you're working in are uncomfortable.
  • Don't submit to a casting call unless you know you can be there and stay for the duration of the shoot.
  • Check thrift stores, yard sales and clearance sales for medical scrubs, business suits, cocktail dresses, tuxedos, etc. These are commonly requested wardrobe options for extra work.
  • Consider buying period pieces (disco wear from the 70's, 80's styles, etc.) if you can find affordable items.
  • Most extra jobs will usually include meals while you are there. However, you may be there for several hours before a meal is served, so pack some snacks or eat a meal before you go. You won't be permitted to leave for lunch and then come back.
  • Network and chat with other extras. You may find new work or at least make new agency contacts.

EditRelated wikiHows

EditSources and Citations

EditQuick Summary


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How to Make a Flower Press

Posted: 12 Jan 2019 04:00 PM PST

Pressed flowers can be a beautiful addition to scrapbook pages or handmade cards. You can press flowers between the pages of a book, but stacks of books can be cumbersome and flowers are disturbed each time you add new ones. Instead, try making your own flower press out of wood, bolts, and cardboard to create beautiful pressed flowers you can enjoy for years to come.

EditSteps

EditFashioning the Press Covers

  1. Cut 2 wood squares in the size you want for your press. Cut the wood with a table saw or a circular saw. You can make your press any size you want it to be, depending on the size of the plants you'll be pressing. Between should be big enough for most projects.[1]
    Make a Flower Press Step 1 Version 2.jpg
    • For best results, choose wood that is or thick.
    • Visit your local hardware store and ask the employees to cut the wood for you if you don't want to use a saw. Most hardware stores will perform this service for free.
  2. Measure diagonally from each corner on both boards. Mark the spot with an X using a pencil. This will be the location for your drill holes.[2]
    Make a Flower Press Step 2 Version 2.jpg
  3. Drill a hole through each of the marks. To ensure your boards will line up perfectly, drill through both of them at the same time. If you're using bolts, use a drill bit. [3]
    Make a Flower Press Step 3 Version 2.jpg
    • If you're using a different bolt and you're not sure what size drill bit to use, pick a bit you think is about the same size, then drill a test hole through a piece of scrap wood and make sure your bolt slides through easily. Adjust the size as needed.
  4. Sand the surface of the wood. Use a medium-grit sandpaper or a sanding tool if you have one. Make sure the wood is smooth, especially around the holes you drilled.[4]
    Make a Flower Press Step 4 Version 2.jpg
  5. Stain or paint the wood if you want. You can personalize your flower press by staining or painting it any color you want. You can also leave the wood plain if you prefer.[5]
    Make a Flower Press Step 5 Version 2.jpg
    • If you do use a paint or stain, allow the wood to dry completely before moving to the next step.
    • Try decorating your press with stencils or cut-out illustrations of flowers.

EditAssembling the Flower Press

  1. Cut 2 pieces of cardboard and 2 pieces of white paper to fit your press. The cardboard and paper should be slightly smaller than your press.
    Make a Flower Press Step 6 Version 2.jpg
  2. Cut the edges of your cardboard and paper off. Once the cardboard and paper are cut to size, cut away the corners so the paper and cardboard will sit inside the bolt holes. You should cut off a triangle-sized piece from each corner. When you're finished, the paper and cardboard should look like a square with the edges cut off.
    Make a Flower Press Step 7 Version 2.jpg
    • The paper absorbs moisture from the flowers during pressing. You can use any kind of smooth paper, including newsprint, blotting paper, tissue paper, or smooth coffee filters. Avoid paper towels or other textured paper because it may leave an imprint on the petals.[6]
  3. Place 1 piece of plywood on the bolts. Slide the bolts through the 4 holes on the first piece of board, then place the board on your work surface. The head of the bolts should be facing down.[7]
    Make a Flower Press Step 8 Version 2.jpg
  4. Layer the cardboard and paper on the press. You'll add 1 piece of cardboard first, followed by the 2 pieces of paper. Top that with the last piece of cardboard.[8]
    Make a Flower Press Step 9 Version 2.jpg
  5. Add another layer of cardboard and paper if you want. You can add as many layers as will fit on your press. Just cut 2 more pieces of cardboard and 2 more pieces of paper and add them on top of the first layer.[9]
    Make a Flower Press Step 10 Version 2.jpg
    • Even if you only make 1 layer at first, you can still go back and add another layer any time after you make your press.
  6. Top the press with the second board. Once you have added all the layers of cardboard and paper, slide the last board onto the bolts.[10]
    Make a Flower Press Step 11.jpg
  7. Place the washers and wingnuts on the bolts and tighten them. You'll put down the washers first, then the nuts. Tighten the nut just until it feels secure. You don't want to tighten them too much, as you'll need to raise and lower the nuts in order to add flowers to your press.[11]
    Make a Flower Press Step 12.jpg
    • Wingnuts are designed to be gripped and can be tightened and loosened more easily than traditional nuts, but if you only have regular nuts on hand, you can use those.

EditChoosing Flowers to Press

  1. Pick flowers when they are dry. The best time to pick your flowers is in the morning after the dew has evaporated. This is when they will be the most fresh.[12]
    Make a Flower Press Step 13.jpg
  2. Harvest flowers when they are about to open or just before their peak. Pressed flower buds are lovely, as are flowers which are fully bloomed. Try to pick flowers in a variety of stages for a natural look.[13]
    Make a Flower Press Step 14.jpg
  3. Select flowers with naturally flat blooms, like violets and daisies. Other flowers that press well include single-petal roses, Cosmos, California poppy, and Queen Anne's Lace.[14]
    Make a Flower Press Step 15.jpg
    • Flowers with bulky blooms, like roses or carnations, take much longer to dry and don't look as nice when they're pressed. You may want to hang them to dry them instead.
  4. Remove any obvious stamens from your flowers. Some flowers, like lilies, have stamens which protrude from the petals. Remove these before you press the flower or the stamen will leave a stain on the dried petals.[15]
    Make a Flower Press Step 16.jpg
  5. Press leaves, ferns, and grasses if you want to accent your flowers. If you're going to display your flowers in a frame, you can add other natural touches by drying leaves, grasses, herbs, and ferns in your press.[16]
    Make a Flower Press Step 17.jpg

EditPressing Your Flowers

  1. Unscrew the nuts to make room on your flower press. You don't have to take the nuts all the way off, just loosen them enough that you can slide the flower into the press.[17]
    Make a Flower Press Step 18.jpg
  2. Place the flowers or leaves between the paper in your flower press. Make sure the flowers are not hanging off of the side of the press. Trim the stem or choose another flower if the one you chose doesn't fit on the press.
    Make a Flower Press Step 19.jpg
  3. Do not overlap the flowers. Arrange the flowers on the paper so they are not touching each other, or else they'll be stuck together when they're dry.[18]
    Make a Flower Press Step 20.jpg
  4. Tighten the nuts to close the press. There's no need to force the nuts tighter than you can comfortably tighten them, but it should feel like it's secured. You may want to check the press every few days to tighten it more as the flower dries.
    Make a Flower Press Step 21.jpg
  5. Leave the press undisturbed for at least 3 weeks. You want to allow the moisture in the plants to completely dry in order to preserve them.[19]
    Make a Flower Press Step 22.jpg
  6. Add more layers of cardboard and paper if you decide to add more flowers. If you find more flowers that you want to press while you're drying the first batch, add the new flowers to a different layer of cardboard and paper, and take care not to disturb the first set.
    Make a Flower Press Step 23 Version 2.jpg
  7. Store the flowers in a box or display them in a frame after they're pressed. Pressed flowers are very fragile, so you'll want to keep them in a safe place once they're finished drying. Store them in a box until you need them.
    Make a Flower Press Step 24.jpg
    • Use pressed petals to decorate homemade cards, as a pretty touch in a handmade candle, or as decorative touches in a shadow box.

EditThings you'll need

  • 2 pieces of wood that are the same size
  • Saw (if your wood is not pre-cut)
  • Ruler
  • Pencil
  • Drill with 5/16-inch drill bit
  • Medium-grit sandpaper
  • Paint or stain (optional)
  • 4 1/4-by-4 inch bolts with wing nuts and washers
  • Cardboard
  • Flowers or leaves

EditRelated wikiHows

EditVideo

EditSources and Citations

EditQuick Summary


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How to Ride a Dirt Bike

Posted: 12 Jan 2019 08:00 AM PST

If you like the feeling of wind rushing by you at high speeds, dirt biking may be for you. Riding a dirt bike can be an amazing adrenaline rush once you suit up with the proper safety gear. You will need to learn the main parts of the bike and how to sit on it properly in order to control it. Once you know how to ride, you can tackle all sorts of tracks and trails safely.

EditSteps

  1. Start with a lightweight track or trail bike for easier control. Dirt bikes come in several varieties, from track to motocross bikes. Track bikes are the least expensive since they lack instruments like oil lights, speedometers, and temperature gauges. Trail bikes often have these extra features. These bikes are a little heavier, but they are still good for a smooth, stable ride.[1]
    Ride a Dirt Bike Step 1 Version 2.jpg
    • The most important part is to choose a bike you're comfortable with. Some people prefer smaller, lighter bikes, while others are more comfortable on heavier ones. You can successfully learn with either option.
    • If possible, try out different bikes to find one you're comfortable riding. Many dealerships will let you take test rides if you ask, although this policy varies from place to place for liability reasons.
    • Motocross bikes are the lightest type available. They're designed for speed instead of handling, so stay away from them until you have more experience.
  2. Choose a bike that has a 4-stroke engine. Dirt bikes either have a 2-stroke or 4-stroke engine. The 4-stroke engines are a little heavier and more expensive because they have more moving parts. The advantage is that they are easier to control, making them the better option for most inexperienced riders. Avoid the trap of throwing down money for a powerful 2-stroke bike that isn't suited to beginners.[2]
    Ride a Dirt Bike Step 2 Version 2.jpg
    • The 4-stroke engines tend to last a little longer than 2-stroke engines but are more expensive to repair due to the number of parts.
    • A good starting point is a 125cc 4-stroke engine. If you still wish to go with a more powerful bike right away, look for a 50cc 2-stroke engine.
  3. Purchase a helmet, padding, and other protective gear. A basic riding outfit consists of a long-sleeved shirt, pants, boots that go up past your ankles, and gloves. You can buy specialty dirt bike clothing that offers extra protection against abrasions. All bikers also need a pair of dirt bike goggles and a full face helmet. After you have this gear, get extra pieces of padding to protect yourself in case of an accident.[3]
    Ride a Dirt Bike Step 3.jpg
    • Purchase elbow and knee guards as well as a chest protector. These are must-haves to reduce the risk of serious injuries.
    • A neck brace is helpful, but you don't truly need it unless you plan on doing jumps or riding dangerous tracks. Braces are bulky, but they protect you against spinal injuries.
  4. Locate the brakes near the right handlebar and foot peg. Before you ride, get to know your bike. The brakes are always on the right side of the bike. The lever in front of the right handlebar operates the front tire brake. The rear brake is somewhere below that. Look for the peg where you rest your foot when sitting on the bike and you will see a small pedal right in front of it.[4]
    Ride a Dirt Bike Step 4.jpg
    • The color of the foot peg and front brake pedal vary from bike to bike. Yours may be red, blue, or silver. Regardless of the color, the pedal stands out so you can always reach it.
  5. Find the clutch and throttle used to make the bike move. Both of these components are on the handlebars. The throttle is the right handlebar grip, which you pull back to accelerate. The clutch is the lever ahead of the left handlebar. You use it in conjunction with the throttle to control the bike's acceleration and deceleration.[5]
    Ride a Dirt Bike Step 5.jpg
    • Working the clutch and throttle at the same time is important, so make sure you know where they are. You're much more likely to hurt yourself if you try riding before you identify them.
  6. Use the shifter pedal on the left side of the bike to change gears. The pedal in front of the left foot peg is the gear shifter. You will need to use it to put the bike into motion and control its speed. Shifting gears correctly allows you to go faster while reducing the strain on your bike. Make sure you know how the shifter functions before you start riding.[6]
    Ride a Dirt Bike Step 6.jpg
    • To shift into first gear, you press your foot down on the shifter.
    • Shift from first gear to neutral by pulling the shifter up halfway. It will click a little bit.
    • To shift into second gear and up to fifth gear, pull the shifter up repeatedly. It will click audibly each time.
  7. Search for locations in your area that are legal for riding. Riding your dirt bike around can get you into trouble if you aren't careful. Many bikes aren't street legal, and many off-road areas are restricted by law. Avoid assuming that you can ride anywhere you please. To find the rules in your area, search online to read up about street and trail regulations. Also, speak with other riders and law enforcement in your area.[7]
    Ride a Dirt Bike Step 7.jpg
    • If you wish to ride your bike in city streets, you need to upgrade it according to your local laws and get a permit from the government. You can also purchase hybrid bikes that work on both streets and dirt trails.
    • Be respectful of other people, whether they are fellow riders or people walking on the trails.
    • Always equip your bike with a spark arrestor to avoid forest fires. Many laws around the world make this mandatory. You may also need a silencer to follow sound regulations.

EditMastering the Basic Riding Positions

  1. Practice proper driving form with your knees bent and your back curved. Sit on the bike as close to the gas tank as possible. Plant the middle of your feet on the foot pegs, making sure your knees are bent with the bike held firmly between them. Lean forward so your back curves slightly, then lift your elbows. Also, squeeze your core muscles tight.[8]
    Ride a Dirt Bike Step 8.jpg
    • This sitting position is best for long, smooth sections of terrain. Use it to conserve your energy for tougher sections.
    • The best way to master this basic riding form is on a parked bike with the engine off.
  2. Stand with your legs bent slightly when crossing rough terrain. Your legs act as suspension when you cross uneven, bumpy land. To master this form, stand up on the balls of your feet. Lift your butt, keeping your knees slightly bent and squeezed up against the gas tank. Keep your core muscles tight as much as possible.[9]
    Ride a Dirt Bike Step 9.jpg
    • When you do this correctly, you will be able to shift your weight backwards, forwards, and side to side to compensate for uneven ground.
    • Standing up can be difficult at first and gets tiring. Keep practicing so you can handle long stretches of rough terrain safely.
  3. Maintain a loose grip on the handlebars with your fingers. Most riders start by wrapping their hands around the grips, keeping their thumbs underneath them. They then place their forefingers and middle fingers on the levers. This may seem counterintuitive at first, but it allows you to quickly hit the clutch and brake levers with your strongest fingers in case of an emergency.[10]
    Ride a Dirt Bike Step 10.jpg
    • Many beginners are taught to hold onto the throttle with all of their fingers, then reach out to the levers as needed. This can stop you from accidentally operating the clutch or brake.
    • The 2-finger grip is very useful to master, but you can stick with an alternative grip if you feel more comfortable doing so.
  4. Keep your head up and always look forward. Get into the habit of trusting your peripheral vision. Look straight ahead of you as much as possible. Let your peripheral vision pick up anything to your sides. Avoid looking down at the bike.[11]
    Ride a Dirt Bike Step 11.jpg
    • Fixating on dangerous objects, like logs and corners, increases your chances of hitting them. You may think you're preparing to handle these obstacles, but you end up guiding your bike straight towards them.

EditStarting the Engine

  1. Flip the red switch to activate on the bike's battery. Before starting the engine, you need to activate the battery. Many bikes have a red switch on the right handle. Some models may have an "on" button instead. All you need to do is press it to start the battery.[12]
    Ride a Dirt Bike Step 12.jpg
    • If your bike doesn't have a switch or button, it may have a key slot. Place your key in the slot, then turn it to the on position.
    • Once you turn your battery on, all of the lights should activate.
  2. Pull out the choke to start the bike in colder temperatures. The choke is typically on the left side of the bike, near where your leg rests while you're in a seated position. This device "chokes" air into the engine to increase the gas flow. During cold days or after a lack of use, the engine needs more gas to start.[13]
    Ride a Dirt Bike Step 13.jpg
    • On some bikes, you pull the choke by flipping a switch located underneath the battery.
    • If you have used your bike earlier in the day, you don't need to pull the choke.
  3. Pull in the clutch all the way. The clutch is the lever on the left handle. It's in the same spots as the left handbrake on bicycles. Pull the lever all the way in and hold it in place while you start the bike.[14]
    Ride a Dirt Bike Step 14.jpg
    • Bikes for kids often do not have a clutch. Instead of using the clutch, you shift the bike into neutral.
  4. Hit the gear shifter down 6 times to get into first gear. While you are seated on the bike, extend your left foot toward the front peg. Reach the gear shifter right in front of it. Push the shifter all the way down repeatedly while you hold onto the clutch.[15]
    Ride a Dirt Bike Step 15.jpg
    • This method works the same way for a child's bike, except it puts the bike automatically into neutral.
    • Rock the bike back and forth. If it moves freely without locking up, you're in gear.
  5. Kickstart the engine using the metal lever on the right. The kickstarter typically is a silver lever near the bottom of your right foot when you're seated on the bike. Grab the lever by hand and flip it away from the bike. Then, plant your foot on the left foot peg and stand up. Finish by stomping your right foot down on the lever.[16]
    Ride a Dirt Bike Step 16.jpg
    • Many modern bikes have a button that starts the engine electronically. Press it to turn the bike on.
  6. Release the clutch as you pull back the throttle. The key to starting the bike is to do both actions slowly and at the same time. Ease the throttle back as you begin letting go of the clutch. The bike will start moving. You can then stop the bike and push the choke back in before you start driving.[17]
    Ride a Dirt Bike Step 17.jpg
    • On a children's bike, you will need to lift the gear shifter up to transition from neutral to first gear. Do this when you're ready to move the bike.
    • Hold onto the clutch! If you let go, the bike will stall. Similarly, if you pull the throttle back too fast, the bike will shoot forward and fall over.
    • To perfect this motion, you can practice it in the air before you drive.

EditDriving the Bike

  1. Turn or release the throttle to control the bike's speed. Roll the throttle back towards you to rev up the engine. Ease off the throttle to slow down. When you need to stop, you can simply let go of the throttle. It will spin back to its original position.[18]
    Ride a Dirt Bike Step 18.jpg
    • Aim on turning the throttle about ⅓ of the way back once you have completely let go of the clutch.
    • Keep a hand on the throttle at all times, but never panic. Some riders freeze up when they get too fast. Stay loose to keep control of the bike.
  2. Use the shifter to change gears when the engine works too hard. You start off in first gear, and as the bike builds speed, the engine gets louder. When you bring the throttle about ¾ of the way back, the bike won't go any faster. You have to press the clutch in and pull the gear shifter up at the same time to keep going.[19]
    Ride a Dirt Bike Step 19.jpg
    • Remember that adult dirt bikes go as high as fifth gear, so you may need to do this a few times. There is no display telling you what gear you are in, so you have to listen and get a feel for how the bike operates to know when to shift.
    • The same rules apply when slowing down, except you push the gear shifter down.
  3. Hit the back brakes to slow down or stop. To slow the bike, lay off the throttle and shift down as needed. Step lightly on the brake pedal to slow the bike. Stop the bike by reaching first gear, then pulling in the clutch. Press down on the brake pedal to bring the bike to a halt.[20]
    Ride a Dirt Bike Step 20.jpg
    • Using the clutch prevents the bike from stalling as it slows.
    • You can also tap the handbrake to slow the bike, but avoid relying on it. Many beginners make the mistake of squeezing it hard. Since it operates the front wheel, the bike comes to a sudden halt, but you keep going over the handlebars.
  4. Lean to the side to maneuver around corners. When you come upon a corner, lean the bike in the direction of the turn. Put your inside foot down to help you turn. Shift your body over so the outside edge of the seat is directly under you. Keep your weight on the outside peg as you go through the turn.[21]
    Ride a Dirt Bike Step 21.jpg
    • Stick your elbows out so they are parallel to the handlebars. This will give you more control over the bike.
    • Putting your foot down also allows you to steady the bike in case you take the corner too sharply.
  5. Practice driving on rough terrain when you get comfortable riding. Dirt bikes are designed for rough terrain. Their lifted frames offer plenty of control and don't take as much damage as other vehicles would during a crash. Head to rocky ground or a motocross track, then stand up on your bike as you drive.
    Ride a Dirt Bike Step 22.jpg
    • Try different types of terrain to improve your driving. Sand dunes feel different than dirt hills, and each type of terrain requires different skills. Find out where you like driving!

EditVideo

EditTips

  • Avoid pulling hard on the throttle when shifting gears. This is referred to as "power-shifting," which could end up damaging your transmission.
  • Sometimes bikes can fall into neutral instead of shifting into first gear. You will know because the bike will slow, start coasting, and not respond to the throttle. Pull the clutch out and kick the shifter down to get back into gear.
  • Buying a bike or gear can get expensive. Try locating used gear or borrowing some from another rider.
  • Warming up the bike before driving it can improve its performance. Let it stay in neutral for 2 minutes. You can release the clutch during this time.
  • Find other riders! Many areas have tracks where riders gather. You do not need to be experienced, but you can make a lot of new friends.

EditWarnings

  • Riding a dirt bike comes with many dangers and risks. You will fall sometimes, so never ride without protective gear.
  • Dirt bikes cannot be operated legally in many areas. Know the rules and stick to sanctioned bike paths.

EditRelated wikiHows

EditSources and Citations

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EditQuick Summary


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