Riding sand tends to divide riders into two camps:
Those who love it… and those who think it’s the work of the devil.
At our final Adventure Academy for the 2025 year, the quote that had everyone laughing came from Richie:
“Beaches are for swimming.”
Fair call — but they’re also one of the best places to build real skills for adventure riders in sand.
Nick Selleck (maschine director) grew up riding sand and still counts it as one of the most fun forms of motorcycle freedom. One of the biggest challenges he has faced in sand was riding a Ducati DesertX down the Finke race track “there and back” 460km in one day over some of the gnarliest sand whoops in the country. This ride featured in the Ducati film “UnFinkeable” which you can watch on YouTube here:
Whether it’s cruising along an open beach or powering through the Finke whoops, sand riding lets you use all of your bike’s power and really feel it come alive.
But if your first taste of sand riding happens on a big multi-cylinder adventure bike, you’re facing a steep learning curve. The good news? With the right technique, it becomes playful, predictable, and incredibly rewarding.
This guide breaks down Nick’s top sand riding techniques for adventure bikes, from traction control to body position — all based on real-world training experience.
Why Sand Riding Feels So Challenging for Adventure Riders
Sand is constantly shifting. It doesn’t offer the firm feedback you get on gravel or hardpack, and that lack of stability can feel unnerving at first.
Big adventure bikes (Tiger 900, R1250GS, DesertX, Multistrada V4, etc.) add even more challenge because of weight and power delivery. They require a fair amount of “controlled aggression” to make real progress. But once you understand the fundamentals, everything gets easier — fast.
Nick’s Top Sand Riding Tips for Adventure Bikes
1. Turn Traction Control Off (or As Low As Possible)
Sand requires positive drive and you don’t want electronics that limit slip and work against you right when you need power. If you can’t completely turn TC off then at least choose a riding mode that allows minimal intervention.
2. Get Aggressive on Take-Off
The bike needs to build momentum quickly. This is the time for “controlled aggression”.
Dump the clutch, push off with your feet, get that rear tyre spinning and go-go-go!
Pro tip: Starting in 2nd gear smooths everything out and avoids digging in when you have to go for the upshift from 1st to 2nd.
3. Build Speed to Get “On the Plane”
Just like a speedboat, your bike becomes stable once it’s skimming along the surface.
Approximate speeds for stability:
- Big multi-cylinder adventure bikes: 30–40 kph
- Single-cylinder enduro bikes: ~20 kph
- Recent example: Nick’s DesertX became light and stable at 26 kph in damp sand.
This is the single biggest turning point for most riders — build the speed and it becomes so much easier.
4. Stand Up Early and Use Your Footpegs
Get both feet up on the pegs as soon as possible.
Steer and balance using footpeg weighting rather than the handlebar.
Your bike will track straighter and react more predictably without the front knifing in so much.
5. Choose the Right Line
- Stay in the bottom of the 4WD ruts where the sand is firmer.
- Avoid the edges — they’ll catch your wheel.
- Where possible, move into clear, untouched sand for a smoother run.
6. Keep a Steady Throttle
A constant, positive drive is essential.
Closing the throttle is the #1 mistake riders make — it throws your body weight forward and causes the front to dive.
7. “When in Doubt, Power Out”
Counterintuitive, but true: when the bike starts to misbehave, give it more power. All the power!
Momentum creates stability in sand.
8. Use a Neutral but Slightly Rearward Position
Don’t hang right off the back — you’ll lose steering control and the bike can pull you around.
Instead, stay neutral with a small bias to the rear to lighten the front.
9. How to Stop Safely in Sand
When it’s time to stop, simply:
- Throw out the anchor!
- Lock up the rear wheel – this tends to pull the rear in line like an anchor being dragged.
- ABS off is best for sand
The bike will settle gently with control. If you use front brake it is more likely to pitch and dive at the front.
Is Sand Riding Fun or Frustrating?
Some riders love it. Others curse it.
But once you understand the technique — and trust it — sand becomes one of the most exciting surfaces to ride.
If you’re looking to improve your off-road confidence, tackle sand with purpose, or learn these techniques hands-on, our Adventure Academy courses run throughout the year and are the perfect place to build real skill.
Want More Riding Tips from Nick?
Join our email list, follow us on socials, or check upcoming courses at maschine.com.au