The sun?s early rays light up towering bluffs along State Route 276 as the group heads to breakfast before tackling the notorious Notom-Bullfrog Road. Photos by Susan Dragoo.
A tiny figure on a Honda CRF250 slowly ascends a rocky slope in the rough country of southeastern Utah. Partway up she veers off course and stops a few feet from the top. A lifelong street motorcyclist, this is her first foray off pavement. Her breathing is rapid, eyes wide.
A man in a faded Tilley hat steps forward and offers a few words of encouragement. “You nearly cleaned that hill!” says Bill Dragoo. “Just stick with the plan and keep your eyes on the top. You?re here to slay some dragons and this one has met his match.” She takes a deep breath, stands up again and leans into the hill, this time victorious. A cheer goes up from her fellow students. ?What do I do if I can?t make it up that hill"? Practicing failure and learning how to convert it to success builds confidence during DART training. Instructor Bill Dragoo demonstrates technique for overcoming a failed hill climb.
For many a motorcyclist, the “Pavement Ends” sign triggers a U-turn, along with a twinge of regret. The trail ahead may be alluring and the bike fully capable of handling rough terrain, but the rider lacks the confidence to explore the unknown. This group is gathered to learn how to keep going when the asphalt disappears. MotoDiscovery has brought Bill Dragoo to Utah to train guests on ...