Motocross is a dangerous sports yet full of excitement, thrill, fun, and adrenaline rush. I started riding a bike a long time ago. As a child, I used to ride on my father’s Yamaha Enduro DT which was my first real exposure to what some may consider to be motocross. In the times I was using that bike, I learned how to find a spot on some elevated locations or big rocks to descend down from using the bike. I loved the feeling of taking the bike off-road and that being said, I’m usually in the countryside where rough terrain, mountains and remote villages are king; where dirt and mud become the ultimate playground for me and my bike.
As an enthusiast and a beginner, I’ve learned quite a lot from riding my own dirt bike here in the UAE. Motocross teaches various values to each rider involved and I myself have learned a lot by being on the saddle of my own bike. Here’s what I’ve learned from the couple of years that I have been riding.
- Firm Decision – Always have a firm decision when entering this kind of sports and adventure ride. Motocross takes a lot of time and effort to learn thus, you should have the guts to do it.
- Determination – You should have the determination to ride, to tackle different kinds of off-road terrain, to fall down and stumble but ride again. Challenge yourself! If others can do it, why can’t you? You can do it as well.
- Being Physically Fit – You must be physically fit to handle road stress. You must have the strength to be able to take control of a 250lbs machine. Be ready for the tough and exhausting rides and jumps that will surely put some strain on your body. Other than that, be ready for worse case scenarios such as bike falls. Always think, “Are you physically fit to ride today?”
- Mental Fitness– Other than being physically fit, you must also be mentally fit for the harsh terrains and road conditions to come. A present mind is always needed to maneuver and make quick responses during a ride. Learn to control your adrenaline rush and conquer your fear.
- Protect yourself with gear – Everything from a helmet to a pair of boots. as this is an extreme sport, it is as dangerous as it sounds fun. It is extremely critical for any rider to invest on safety and protective gears (with approved safety standards), such as helmets, goggles, knee& elbow pads, chest and back protectors, neck support and braces, kidney belts, riding boots and socks, riding jersey and pants, riding gloves, performance base layers, etc. It can minimise and prevent injuries and also allows the rider to continue to ride efficiently and enjoy more.
- Discipline and Respect – Know your limitations. Do not do extremes if you’re not yet skilled to do so, and wait until you’re good at it. Respect fellow riders, respect the trail and respect nature itself.
- Skill and Practice– Nobody was good on their first rides. Difficulties will be experienced but “practice makes perfect”. And for the rider to be one with his bike, know your weaknesses on the tracks and correct it. Know your bike’s capabilities and bond with it. Learn from mistakes , always develop your riding skills and techniques. Ask your fellow riders for additional advice.
- Watch the Pros – Watch and learn from the professionals. Apply what you have learned from them to your own riding techniques. Be inspired buy your idols.
- Pre and Post Ride Maintenance – It is essential for your bike’s condition to be checked before and after the ride. Nobody wants to be stranded in the middle of a desert and it can ruin your fun ride. Know the basics of maintenance – coolant, engine oil, fuel, brakes, spark plug, air filter, carburettor, loose bolts and nuts etc
- Rest and Enjoy – Plan and get ready for your next ride, be prepared. Enjoy the outdoor life, enjoy your ride, and feel the thrill. Have fun!
Words + Photos by: Josafat “Pitoy” Cariquitan
