Motocross Track Rules And Etiquette
Not every rider has Motocross track experience, or knows what to expect at a track, so check out 5 of the most important rules and guidelines of a Motocross track, especially if you’re headed to an Over And Out event that has MX!
1. LOOK BOTH WAYS BEFORE ENTERING THE TRACK
When getting on a track, or crossing through any active area, you MUST look both ways for moving traffic. Only enter or cross the track when the coast is completely clear. Consider a rider’s momentum and don’t cut them off. Be patient, let them pass first.
2. KEEP YOUR MOVEMENTS PREDICTABLE: HOLD YOUR LINE!
Don’t make abrupt stops or cuts across tracks and trails. Other riders may be trying to keep their momentum and time their own movements. Plus, none of us are mind-readers!! It’s crucial to “HOLD YOUR LINE” which means stay in the lane you’re in and don’t cross side to side across the track or trail.
If you hear the loud engine of a fast rider coming up behind you, the BEST thing you can do is hold your line and let them pass you. Don’t try to move to get out of their way or you risk causing a crash.
3. RIDE WITHIN YOUR LIMITS AND YOUR BIKE’S LIMITS
To help ensure we can keep bringing events like this, everyone must ride safely within their limits. This event is NOT the place to try clearing a big jump for the first time, or to get on a larger or more powerful bike than you’re capable of riding. Please be smart!
At certain events, we allowing woods and trail bikes on the track because it’s a great place to dial in technique and get the benefits of repetition, but please remember that if it’s not a motocross bike it does not have the suspension to absorb high jumps, which can cause you to bottom out (see photo below) and potentially cause damage to yourself, your bike or others. Do not jump rental trail bikes.
4. RIDE YOUR MOTOS, TAKE BREAKS
Typically practice at a motocross track will run as 15 or 18-minute motos, each moto for a class (A, B, Vet and so on). For simplicity at our events OAOMX we’ll divide each hour into 3 “classes” or levels of riders:
ADVANCED - The first 20-minutes of each hour. Riders capable of safely riding with more speed and momentum to clear jumps have the track. If you’re not prepared or comfortable being on the track at this time, stay off, take a break and hydrate.
ALL - The middle of each hour. A variety of rider levels will be on the track together. Keep movements predictable, hold your line, and keep adequate awareness of other riders.
NOVICE - During this last 20-minutes of each hour, be aware that newer riders may be getting acclimated to the track. Give them a buffer zone, don’t jump over them, be extra courteous and careful.
In between your preferred moto, take a break, sit in the shade, snack and hydrate!
5. KNOW WHAT THE FLAGS MEAN
You’ll know the start and end of each moto by the flags being waved on the track. Here are the major flag colors you need to know:
GREEN - Go Time! Waved at the start of each moto.
WHITE - Last lap. The moto is going to end soon, take your last lap.
CHECKERED - Moto Over!
RED - Reduce your speed and make your way safely off the track or back to the pit area.
