How to Get Into Motocross: 5 Things You Need to Know
Dirt bikes are an adrenaline junkie's dream. If you're obsessed with the outdoors and enjoy spending time going full throttle on a dirt road, you may be interested in Motocross.
Motocross requires more than a dirt bike and a helmet. If you're serious about taking your passion to the next level, you'll need the mental strength to outrace your competition, the balance to stay on your dirt bike from start to finish, and the grit and determination to keep going.
If this sounds like you: You've come to the right place.
We're here to walk you through five things you need to know to start your journey today.
Let’s dive in.
1. Understand the Basics of Motocross
Before getting into Motocross you'll need to know the ins and the outs of the sport and how it works. Motocross is just like any other sport you decide to take on. It requires time, dedication, and determination. You'll need to learn the rules and the basics of riding professionally in a supercross setting. You can’t just jump on a bike and hope for the best.
For example, you’ll need to understand what the different flags mean and how they work. Most motocross tracks and races use over seven different flags during a single race. If you don't know that the blue flag means passing and the black flag means safety infraction, it could ruin your chances of staying competitive.
Educate yourself on the basics, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. The learning phase can be challenging, but once you have a handle on track rules, bike etiquette, and everything else: You’ll be one step closer to taking on your competition.
2. Choose the Right Bike for You
There's a wide variety of dirt bikes that you can choose from. The most important thing to consider is if you want a two-stroke or four-stroke. The main difference is that two-strokes only use one power cycle to the cylinder with two strokes of the piston. This gives two-strokes more power per CC than their four-stroke counterpart.
Two-strokes are lighter, can reach a higher top speed, and are easier to maintain. While four-strokes provide more stability, predictability, and better traction.
However, before you make a decision, it's important to note that two strokes don't meet the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) restrictions. Their vehicle exhaust emissions don't meet their standards, so two-stokes are harder to come by and are not street-legal so they will be designated for off-road use only.
Regardless of what you decide the best option is, you can shop a variety of brands to find the right bike for you. Do your research, connect with friends, and know what you're personally looking for from a dirt bike. Dirt bikes are an investment that will be with you on the track for years to come. Take your time and explore your options before you commit.
3. Get the Proper Safety Gear
Safety gear should be a top priority for you, and it should be about more than the aesthetic of the gear. Before you get on the track and take on your competition, you’ll need high-end safety gear to ensure you're always protected. Motocross is considered a somewhat dangerous sport. Dirt bikes can go over 60 mph on tracks, and once the race begins, there’s no telling what may or may not happen.
Always prepare for the worst with high-quality safety gear you can rely on.
Here’s a breakdown of the protective gear you need:
- Helmet
- Gloves
- Boots
- Jersey and Pants
- Goggles
- Neck and Knee Braces
- Chest Protector
At Typhoon Helmets, we have a suite of designs that provide safety, fashion, and function to ensure you can ride confidently. All of our helmets, apparel, and accessories are designed with the rider in mind, so you can feel good when you get on the track.
4. Join a Motocross Club or Group
Joining a club or a group is a great way to make new connections with like-minded individuals. They’ll teach you tricks of the trades, practice with you, and give you the tips you need to take on your next competition. Joining a club or a group is also a great way to hold yourself accountable and ensure you're practicing consistently and regularly.
Once you start taking on races and advancing to different levels, you’ll have a community you can lean on for advice and guidance. They’ll be with you on and off the track, motivating you to take on this adrenaline-filled sport.
5. Practice, Practice, Practice!
Every race will be different. Every track you take on will have its challenges and won’t be anything like the last. The diverse riding conditions during your first few years will be a challenge that will motivate you to continue to practice and strengthen your skills.
If you’re serious about Motocross and want to take on races like the Grand Prix one day, you’ll need to be dedicated to practicing. Consider enrolling in a motocross school or frequently going to a track near your home. Every day you make time to practice, you'll be one step closer to your goal of becoming the motocross rider you've always dreamed of being.
Upgrade Your Safety Gear with Typhoon Helmets
We want to help you get into Motocross with the right safety equipment. We're here to help you stay safe on and off the track with affordable, high-quality options you can rely on.
Shop our collection of adult and youth helmets and safety gear today to get started.