Dirt Bike Riding
Insider Info
Whether you're on a motocross track or an outdoor trail, dirt bike riding
is a fun way to keep fit and get dirty. Motocross combines motorcycles and
cross-country. It has been developing as a sport since the 1920s. But in North
America the sport really took off after the Second World War.
The popularity of the sport has been growing steadily. The action and
the challenge of dirt bike riding make it a hit with spectators. The sport's
popularity has increased the competition at better-known events. The AMA Motocross
and Supercross championships draw millions of viewers. That's according to
the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA). In 2008, AMA membership was nearly
270,000.
You don't have to race to enjoy dirt bike riding. But races are a great
way to get together with other people who enjoy the sport. There are many
types of competitions and some are just for fun. For example, some clubs organize
trail rides for kids.
Motocross is where most kids start racing. Racers use off-road motorcycles
on a closed outdoor circuit. Jumps, bumps, hills, corners and straights are
all part of the track.
There are different classes of competition depending on a rider's age and
skill. Amateur races may take five minutes while pros can race for half an
hour. Up to 40 racers line up together and start at the same time.
"I would definitely encourage young people to get involved with motocross.
It's not only fun and a great way to get in shape, you get to meet so many
other kids that race. And it gives you something to do in the summer," says
Dallyn Giroux. She has been riding for 10 years.
If you take motocross into the woods, you have what's called a hare scramble.
In a hare scramble, the course takes riders over rugged natural terrain. So
riders race the course as much as they race the other riders.
An enduro is another type of off-road race, which includes many different
obstacles and challenges. Wooded trails and dirt roads make for challenging
outdoor rides.
Arenacross is indoor motocross. On indoor tracks riders need good technique,
finesse and fitness. Supercross is also run indoors on a man-made track with
lots of jumps.
Dirt track racing is more traditional. It started when riders competed
on horse tracks at country fairs. A newer generation of racers may choose
road racing to show off their sport bikes. These super-fast races are on paved
tracks.
Other types of races include drag racing, dirt drag, observed trails and
ice racing.
Motorcycles used for riding in dirt are usually lightweight, high-powered
and have good suspension. The suspension gives riders a smoother ride over
rugged terrain. Terrain can include dirt, sand and mud.
Typically, riders must pay a user fee to use the tracks. However, outdoor
trails are free. Dirt bike riding is dangerous and you should never ride alone.
People under 18 usually need a parent or guardian to sign a waiver before
using a track.
Riders should also keep important medical information with them when they
ride. Broken collarbones, elbows and legs are common injuries.
"Motocross is one of the most physically demanding sports out there and
you do need to be in good shape," says Carrie Giroux. She suggests exercise
and a healthy diet to improve strength and endurance.
Giroux, her husband and their four children are all riders. For those interested
in the sport, she recommends getting involved at a local track. During race
times volunteers are needed to help with flagging, gate admission, lap counting
or posting results.
Getting Started
David Graves is a rider from Texas. For those who want to learn more about
dirt bike riding, he suggests talking to people who are into the sport. He
also recommends checking out races in your area. Decide whether you're into
dirt biking, street riding or both.
"If you don't know where to start, just ask your local bike dealer and
they can give you the name and phone number of your local club representative,"
says Giroux. Staff at bike dealers usually knows where the local riding areas
and motocross tracks are. Contact the track to see if and when it's available
for practice. Find out if the track offers riding clinics or other events
for beginners.
Dirt bike schools offer safety training and other introductory courses.
Usually instructors supply students with the equipment they need to learn
the sport. You'll learn the basics, such as starting a bike, using the clutch
and brakes, and turning and operating the bike.
Once you've mastered the basics, you might consider renting a bike or buying
your own. Remember, if you buy a bike, you'll need a truck, trailer or some
other way to transport the bike.
Start with an inexpensive bike because chances are high you're going to
crash. An inexpensive bike will lower your replacement or repair costs.
There's lots of gear to protect yourself from injury. Essential safety
gear includes a helmet, riding pants, motocross boots, gloves and goggles.
It may also include chest protectors, knee guards and kidney belts.
"Depending on what kind of gear you get, it really isn't that expensive,
and is definitely worth the money," says Denaye Giroux. She has been riding
since she was three years old, and has broken both her collarbones.
Bike maintenance is also important. A gas can, gear oil, filter cleaner,
filter oil and other supplies come in handy.
Associations
American Motorcyclist Association
Internet
:
http://www.amadirectlink.com
Links
Women's Motocross Association
Visit this site for women in the sport
Motorcycle Safety Foundation DirtBike School
Learn safety basics before you start riding
Motorsports Network
Find out more about motorsports with this online magazine, shopping
and buyers guide
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