About to buy a KLR650...

[dhgeyer]

I'm no expert on dirt riding, but have done some - just not on dirt bikes. When I was young I took my bikes into the woods and fields all the time, even though they weren't made for it. I think you're doing pretty much what you have to do - just get out there and find out what works for you. Don't worry about overheating the engine on the downhills: it's liquid cooled. One difference between on road and off road is the use of brakes: off road you use more rear brake, and of course somewhat more gradual application. Another difference is that if you go into a skid, it's not the end of the world. Experienced riders slide the back end around all the time. As you said, it has much in common with downhill skiing. There's a learning curve. Take it at a pace that's comfortable for you. If you're not going for speed - just want to get there and back, just keep doing what you're doing: keep the speed reasonable for conditions and keep it under control.

The Speed Channel on TV shows motocross and dirt racing sometimes. You'll learn a lot from watching what those guys do.