Oct 6, 2022
A step by step explainer of how to enter the daredevil world of motocross.
Brad Vincent provides tips and tricks to fulfilling your dream of riding motocross.
Step 1 / Find a dealer or secondhand bike
Do not listen to the familiar debate between seasoned motocross addicts concerning whether two strokes or four strokes are better.
(Note for newbies: Per wikipedia: A two-stroke (or two-stroke cycle) engine is a type of internal combustion engine that completes a power cycle with two strokes (up and down movements) of the piston during one power cycle, this power cycle being completed in one revolution of the crankshaft. Two-stroke bikes are lighter and faster to start. Meanwhile …. Four-stroke motorbikes operates on four strokes per cycle. This means, the crankshaft moves twice, while the piston moves four times.)
As a beginner, choose the best bike that suits your motives within the sport. Remember that four strokes come with a higher maintenance cost but provide a safe riding experience. Two strokes are cheaper to maintain but come with an increased risk of looping out without proper throttle control. Finances are always a significant deciding factor in purchasing equipment so go with what you can afford.
Step 2 // Purchase an approved DOT Helmet
Safety in this sport is vital; nothing is more important than protecting your dome. DO NOT GO CHEAP when purchasing a helmet. Again finances are always tight in this sport, but if you want to avoid head injuries, go with reputable brands with extensive R&D.
Step 3 /// Find the gear that suits your style
Nobody says you can’t look fabulous while ripping up dirt and hanging with family and friends. Usually, all gear sold at dealers is of good quality. No jeans and flannels at the track if you can help it. Remember that dirt rashes apply the same as road rash, so try and avoid it altogether with a suitable gear brand.
Step 4 //// Purchase Boots
Twisted ankles, torn ligaments, and swollen legs are not fun on Monday morning, so look into boots that protect and will withstand the test of time. No specific brand fits within this category, so do your research before purchasing. You might find that many brands say the same thing about their product, and many industry experts will endorse them. Whatever you can afford, I recommend going with.
Step 5 ///// Gear Bag
Now that you have all the required safety gear, you should consider purchasing a gear bag to store it in. Do not go fancy here; it is unnecessary. Even a ten-dollar toast from a department store will work. Just find something that can adequately store all your belongings so they do not get lost.
Step 6 ////// Sign up at a local motocross school
This sport can be tricky, and one mistake can put you in the dirt, so signing up for a local motocross school will ensure you understand all the basic techniques for a safe riding experience.
Step 7 /////// Proper Starting Technique
Probably one of the more critical body position techniques is starting line form. You will need to get your weight in a neutral position with elbows at 90 degrees, and if you do not have a holeshot device, which helps getting to the first turn faster than everybody else, more weight will need to be placed on your front end to ensure you do not “lop out.”
Step8 //////// Cornering
This is where many riders literally fall to the ground, so be sure to grip your knees entering the corner and keep your leg close to the bike so that you do not catch it in the rut, possibly injuring your knee. Your professional instructor will provide all of the information needed for this technique.
Step 9 ///////// Jumping
All I can say here is to pay attention to what your instructor says regarding the jumping technique. I recommend not jumping into something you’re not comfortable with. Remember, you are not a professional getting paid millions to win races, so think safety. You will know when the time comes to up the ante on launching upon more enormous obstacles
Step 10 ////////// Apply all that you have learned to have a pleasurable riding experience.
