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Re: gravel
Gravel is not the most fun with a street bike and street tires. I find a good rule of thumb is keep your feet on the pegs. That is the safest place for them so you won't loose a leg when it touches down. Even at slow speeds you can have your leg pulled back with dire results and have a nasty fall because your balance will certainly be upset. Feet on the pegs, knees tight to the tank and keep your arms loose. Do not get all tensed up. The bike will always want to do a dance under you so be prepared for it. Always have just enough speed to keep your balance. Remember the wheels are gyroscopes. They do not want to fall over after approx 8-10 mph. Just the same as steel decked bridges and pavement grooves. Always look ahead for a better path of travel. Use the other side of the road if you need to and there is no oncoming traffic to avoid.
Practice on the road to gain some confidence in your skills and learn how the bike reacts to varying surfaces. I find sand is the worst and mud is a nasty surface too. Gravel can be a bit of fun but always know there will be something lurking and waiting to spoil your day.
On crappy surfaces always try to be in a gear that will provide some instant power to help stabilize the bike when needed.
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