Motocross Riding

Motocross arrived to the United States from Europe in the 1960s thanks to Edison Dye, affectionately
known as the "Father of American Motocross." He ran a motorcycle touring business in Europe and his
travels across the pond exposed him to a new style of motorcycle racing. In the United States, dirt bikes
were not an unknown piece of machinery, in fact many Americans raced in scrambles, enduro
competitions and in other dirt bike related races.
The genesis of motocross came in the UK in the early 1900s where Auto-Cycle Clubs would host time
trials. These trials evolved into regular off-road events called ‘scrambles. The first ever official scramble
was held in Camberley, Surrey in 1924. From these humble beginnings the sport would develop over the
coming decades.
In the 1970s the sport experienced a major boom in popularity thanks to the increased interest in the
United States. This made for some exciting racing as international rivalries emerged. The first stadium
motocross race took place in Los Angeles Coliseum. In 1975 the 125cc World Championship was
introduced but it was the 1980s before the U.S. began winning international competitions.
The 1980s heralded a second wave of engineering innovation. This included the development of water-
cooled machines and rear mono-shock suspension. This was followed in the 1990s with a shift in
production standards and environmental considerations.
As the sport grew in size and popularity, clubs and competitions emerged throughout Britain. Team
events also became a regular feature of these events. One drawback, however, was that the bikes used in
competition were almost identical to the ones used on the road.
For those just getting into Motocross racing, knowing what class to enter is crucial to not only personal
enjoyment of the sport and a desire to continue racing but also prevents race officials from pulling you
aside after the checkers and telling you to get your act together.

First off, when you check out a Motocross series, you'll see a plethora of classes which look something
like this:
 250 B
 51 (4-6)
 85 (9-11)
 Vet B/C
 Super Mini 1 (12-13)
 Schoolboy 1 (12-16) B/C
 And so on...
The 36 classes at Loretta Lynn's, three of them include 250 A, 250 B and 250 C. You'll also see this used
at local and regional race competitions, which if you're new to the sport, can add more confusion to an
already puzzling amount of different classes.
So, what class do I enter?
The number of course refers to engine size. The letter, quite simply, refers to how good you are. The
Class A rider is better than a Class B who is better than a Class C rider.
Knowing is half the battle and if you've just started riding a dirt bike DO NOT register for Class A or
even Class B. Some series offer Class D which is a beginner class therefore if you are new to the bike
then stick with Class C if Class D or "Beginner" class is not an option. You'll lag behind but hey,
everyone has to start somewhere. Besides, racing with faster riders only makes you better.
In short, A or sometimes AA is also known as PRO or PRO/AM or Pro Sport. Class B is considered
Intermediate; C is Junior; and D, if posted, is Beginner. So, in the above example of the Vet B/C 30+, that
class combines 30-year-old plus riders considered intermediate and beginner.
Equipment’s:
 Helmet
 Goggles
 Gloves
 Boots
 Body Gear

3 Common Motocross Injuries

 Fractures and sprains of the collarbone, wrist, ankle, and knee
 Concussions
 ACL tears and ruptures
Preventing Motocross Injuries
 Be sure you can see the course at all times. Dust and weather elements should not obstruct the
visibility of the course. Although motocross is generally an all-weather sport, the risk of injury
can intensify under certain inclement conditions.
 Know your ability. An understanding and attention to a rider's skill level can also help prevent
injuries. Riding beyond this level too soon and attempting challenging tricks or jumps can create
dangerous situations.
 Take it slow. Motocross involves a steady progression of ability. With this attitude, riders can
stay safe while improving and learning at appropriate paces.
 To help prevent injuries, it is vital that all riders, regardless of age and experience, wear proper
safety equipment. The value of a good helmet, boots, googles, and gloves cannot be overstated.
 As with most sports, stretching prior to riding can help to loosen muscles, which helps increase
flexibility and avoid cramping or tightness.