Motocross Racing For Kids - What You Need to Know

Did you enjoy motorsports as a child? If you did, chances are you want your children to have the same joy you had when you were young. Buying your child a go-kart or dirt bike before he or she starts kindergarten is more common than you may think. Champions like Ricky Carmichael and Travis Pastrana have raised the bar of success in their sport before age 18. Travis began riding at age 4, Carmichael at age 5.

Many motocross sanctioning bodies and tracks have competition groups beginning at age 4! Motocross gear for young riders is improving right along with adult dirt bike gear. Bringing motorsports into a child's life at a young age can be a valuable learning experience that will benefit him or her throughout life.
Most beginner motocross divisions begin at age 4 on 50cc bikes. Experienced and talented 7 year olds can begin racing between 65 and 90cc bikes at some tracks. If your child has limited experience on a dirt bike, let him or her gain a year or two on the same 50cc bike. Some 50cc bikes are extremely fast and lightweight. Your child can see speeds of 40 m.p.h when he or she begins to use the full potential of the bike!

Safety in racing always has to come first, especially with your children. If you are on a budget, don't skimp on safety. Do your homework. Find a top quality motocross helmet and motocross gear. Chest protection, roost guards, and knee protection for kids come in a variety of materials and styles. You may need to try on few before making a purchase. A young rider has enough to worry about without his/her roost guard jabbing his or her chin every bump. If you want to save money it is suggested to save money when you buy the bike. As mentioned above, it will take a while before a child uses a 50cc to its full potential.
Another reason to save money on the bike is that someone will always spend more then you on his child's bike. It will be a good strategy to teach your child to challenge his or her own ability early in his or her career rather than to challenge other riders. Teach the idea of "race the race track." Even pros have to be reminded of this at times of high pressure. Share with your child his improved lap times rather than 3rd or 4th place. Show your son or daughter that the fun of racing is the entire experience not just the result. From waking up early to load the bike, to week long mechanical preparation, allows your child to participate in the entire experience. The experience of racing can build confidence and many other "big picture" skills not offered by stick and ball sports.