Motocross Racing - Riding Tips

Motocross Racing Riding Tips - Race Starts

Starts can be the most important part of your whole race. Blow the start and you can be stuck behind 30 other guys. Nail it and you have a real shot at the win. Learn the subtle tips that can put you in front...

Groom the Gate -

If it's muddy, pack it down.
If it's dusty, clear the loose material.

Watch the Starter -

More than likely, the starter will use the same technique race after race. Watch other races being started and get an idea of his timing.

Keep Your Weight Forward -

As your exploding your bike off the line, generally the front wheel will want to leap skyward, keep your weight forward as much as possible.

Also take into account the conditions:

More traction - further forward
Less traction (mud etc.) - weight more centered

Balance -

Make sure you're balanced on the bike to keep tracking in a straight line.

Feed the Clutch -

Feed the clutch out slowly to maintain the engine in the optimum rev range.

Where to Look -

Watch the top of your own gate right in front of you. This will give you the quickest reaction time and help you maintain balance.

Keep it Loaded -

Hold the clutch slightly engaged with the front brake on. This will give you the quickest reaction time.

Visualise -

Get your mind ready. Visualise your perfect start, then go out and do it.

Practice -

Practice, practice, practice...

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Visitor Comments

Posted By Mark on 2009-02-23
Hey Kelo, sounds like you need to take a few deep breaths and focus on the task at hand. Problem is you're thinking too much about the wrong things. Thinking about what can go wrong instead of visualizing what you need to do. May sound strange, but go to the videos on this site about meditation (click on the personal growth link in the menu, top right). Calming the mind is what you need. Focus and concentration will lower your heartrate and actually speed up your reactions! Good luck.
Posted By kelo on 2009-02-21
i get very nervous during a race which makes me have bad starts , so how do i stop this?
Posted By Mark on 2008-08-19
Hi Glen, you need to feed the power on with the clutch more. If you find the front end lifting slip the clutch a little. This maintains the rev's but reduces the power slightly to the rear wheel. Practice it until you get the "feel" for it.
Posted By Glen on 2008-05-19
i have kxf450 when i start its in second gear and my whole weight is on the fuel tank and head over the bars,and it still throws the front end up. how do i stop it?
Posted By Adam on 2008-02-23
ok... but what gear do I start in when racing my kx100?
Posted By Mark on 2008-02-23
I like to use second cos you have more control of wheelspin an less chance of looping the bike off the line. But you have to practice your clutch work so you can slip it while keeping the power right where you need it.

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