Jumps are some of the toughest obstacles to get comfortable attempting at the track. Most riders approach them using the throttle as insurance to make sure they reach the landing. For an advanced rider, jumps are a great place to make up time in a race; staying as low as you can and keeping your momentum driving forward, instead of shooting to the moon, can separate you from your competition more than having a superior motorcycle can. You can also use jumps as a place to rest. Once you feel confident in the air, you can release your white-knuckle death grip, saving yourself a bit of energy. Even if the jumps are relatively small, you can still increase your speed while saving effortand that will add up to good results. Over the years, factory Suzuki's Nick Wey has mastered the art of keeping his momentum low and forward to conserve energy. Follow his four steps, and you will likely improve your lap times; and it will take you longer to fatigue as you put the laps away.
A. As you hit the face of the jump, let the bike soak up as much of the face as it can. Using your knees and arms, pull yourself into the bike. Letting the bike soak up the takeoff allows you to brush off speed; you can also turn the front wheel just a tad to reduce speed on a launch. This technique works only when you are carrying a high rate of speed into a jump face and you are committed to coasting off the face. If you hit the face at speed and with the throttle cracked, you will go to the moon. The takeoff is the most-critical part of this technique, and it requires practice to get it right.
B. As you take off, stay loose on the bike and release your hands just a tad from the handlebar. Squeezing with your knees, let the bike come to you, so you stay loose. If you are stiff or holding on too tightly, this technique will work against you, and you will lose more time and energy. Staying loose allows you a quick breather; even if it's just a second of rest, it adds up and makes an appreciable difference.
C. As you approach the landing, point the front tire in the direction you want to go. Even if the bike is a bit crossed up, your forward momentum will keep it straight upon landing. Another key ingredient to this technique is looking ahead as opposed to right in front of you. This allows you to carry more forward momentum and make any necessary midair changes.
D. On the landing, you'll want to help soak up as much of the impact as you can, so while leaning forward, bend your knees and let them act as shock absorbers. Land with the throttle open. When first attempting this, don't land with the throttle pegged, or there is a good chance you will be buying a new rear fender after you loop out. Let yourself build up speed, but the more throttle you use on the landing, the faster you will accelerate from the jump.