Posted by Davin Barela

 

Motocross: An Overview

Motocross is a flourishing, popular and exciting sport. It’s a sport that requires dedication such as eating the right foods, working out and training on a day to day basis. Wearing the proper equipment helps to ensure the safety of the competitors. The thrills of highflying dirt bike racing are what drive not only the participants, but the spectators as well.

When it comes to riding hard and pushing yourself to the limit, you must be in tiptop shape to withstand the treacherous conditions motocross can throw your way. This is where eating the right foods, working out, and training hard take place. Eating foods such as salads, vegetables, and plenty of carbohydrates for energy is a must for the serious racer. Running a few miles everyday to stay in shape and doing plenty of arm, stomach and leg workouts is a big plus for being able to throw around a 200+ pound motorcycle. Finally is the training, the most crucial element in my opinion. This is where one learns techniques such as rider positioning on a motorcycle, how to make better and smoother passes, jumping techniques and basically becoming a faster, smarter rider.

Motocross racing is a dangerous sport where anything can happen. Wearing the proper gear is a must and is required by every racing organization. The most important part of the gear is the helmet. Without a helmet, your head goes unprotected and you can suffer from severe head trauma in case of an accident. Next are the boots. Motocross boots go shin high and are designed for giving support to the ankles and protecting the shin. Racing clothes must also be worn. These consist of racing pants, a long sleeve racing jersey, and gloves. An optional piece of equipment is the chest protector. The chest protector is designed for protection against roost (thrown up dirt, rocks and other flying debris) from he other riders. Last is eye protection. Racing goggles are designed to fit inside your helmet for protecting yore eyes from flying debris.

What drives the motocross racers to each race? Also, what drives the spectators to each race? I have been an amateur motocross racer myself since I was 10 years old and a fan since I was about five. This gives me a first hand experience from both sides. There are three key ingredients that drive both the racer and the spectator to each motocross race. The first being the rush of going as fast as you possibly can. Second, being the possibility of victory, and winning that first place trophy. And third is the suspense of not knowing what can happen after every turn such as wrecking or losing a position.

The sport of motocross can be an exciting family activity because it requires the whole family to pull together in order to make it out to each race. Injuries come with the territory, and you must remember to wear the proper equipment and be physically prepared to help ensure your safety. Motocross is and will continue to be a thrill seeking adventure for both the racer and spectator.

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