RidingVietnam.com

The two stroke, single cylinder Byelorussian Minsk is a 125cc dirt bike capable of getting you anywhere in Vietnam. In its manual it says: “These motorcycles are especially suitable for service in the country-side with bad or no roads.”

If you tinker with it, keep it clean and make regular inspections then the Minsk will become a true friend. You will not see many of these bikes in the Hanoi as the locals consider themselves above such an ungainly, oil billowing reminder of past Russian dominance. In the mountains and hills, however, the Minsk rules supreme. Every mechanic knows how to fix a Minsk, and there are places everywhere selling spare parts.

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The 1996 – model Minsk

The 1996 – model Minsk

In 1996 two versions of the standard Minsk were made. They look exactly the same but on the inside one is better because its alternator is stronger and easier to fix. If you buy the bike new then for an extra US$10 they will put in the better version. The weaker alternator is easily recognized because it has a number of round holes drilled through its cover.

Both the 1996 models have a more economical carburetor which is fine on the flat but a little short of power in the mountains. This carburetor is easy to recognize because the top of it is circular and can be unscrewed. Again, ask the dealer to put in the older, rectangular-tube shaped one for better performance in the mountains. Also opt for the round shaped head-lamp rather than the square one – it’s easier to remove and replaced if smashed.

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Always keep your eyes forward and slow down at every intersection. If you and another are both converging on the same spot then who ever make the first evasive move (to the left or right) is the action that both of you should then follow. You are not bonded by notions of right or wrong driving rules from back home – if the guy turn to avoid you and it means he is heading into traffic and even if it is on the wrong side of the road, then it is good practice. By following the first move everyone know each other’s intention. If you are heading straight at someone then communicate to the other person by giving your handle bars a bit of a turn in the direction you are committing yourself to indicate to them what you are about to do. Whatever you indicate will then lock you into a non-collision situation.

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There are many kinds of bike for bikers to choose. Therefore, bikers should know thoroughly the need by themselves before having a choice.

ROAD BIKE

Do you like to ride fast as lightning? Are you interested in riding on streets and sidewalks but not rugged trails? Then I have the perfect bike for you – the Road Bike.

The main thing the road bike built for is speed. The road bike is similar to the bikes that race in the Tour de France. Don’t you want to be like a famous bike rider in the tour de France? If you do, go out and buy a road bike! It can be used for a race or just riding around in the park. It is more of a modern 10 speed and a lot safer. If you can’t afford to buy a Mountain bike or hybrids, go out and buy a road bike. You’ll be so happy with the light weight frame, drop bars and all the other things that you can get on the road bike.

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Besides basic riding techniques, bikers should also pay attention to safety riding rules.

1. Helmet
Most important rule for bikers – Always wear a helmet

2. Never Ride Beyond Your Abilities
There is no shame in walking sections of the trail you don’t feel confident enough to ride

3. Keep Your Speed in Check
Always keep your speed at a level that will allow you to adjust to any unforeseen obstacles or changes in trail condition.

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There are many situations on moutain bike that visitors can’t anticipate. The following basic riding techniques are going to help riders in more self-confident.

1. Balance

Balance is crucial in mountain biking, not just left-right balance, but front to back balance. Weight over the rear wheel is what gives you traction: if your back tire is slipping, try moving back on the seat, or if you are standing, transfer more of your weight to the rear of the bike. If your front wheel comes off the ground, then you need to transfer more weight to it.

2. Setting Proper Pedaling Bike Seat Height

To find the right seat height position you need to sit on your bike with your feet on the pedals. Position of one pedal is at the very bottom of its stroke. Your seat height should be adjusted so that in this position your knee is bent at around a 25 to 30 degree angle. It’s that simple.

It is important to note that this applies to pedaling situations only. There are a lot of situations on a mountain bike and other off road cycles that you should have a lower seat position for safety as well as improved agility.

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