When it comes to learning motocross, age isn’t as important as it is made out to be. The majority of dirt bike riders and motocross racers began riding while they were in their late teens or early twenties. However, a small number of riders began riding much later and are still doing so.
Motocross may be learned at any age if you are in good condition and fitness. Motocross racing classes for riders over 30 years old, 40 years old, 50 years old, and 60 years old exist. Many racers in their 40s and 50s started riding Motocross and are still performing well. However, there are a few things you should know regarding dirt biking as an elderly person:
Motocross is a dangerous sport.
Motocross is a type of off-road motorcycle racing that takes place on closed tracks. A dirt bike is used in the race, and dirt bikes aren’t always associated with safety. Although not everyone who rides motocross breaks bones, the majority of those who do suffer bodily injuries.
The less you know about riding a dirt bike on motocross tracks, the more likely you are to injure yourself. To put it another way, know what you’re getting yourself into. Motocross is frequently associated with younger individuals because they are more likely to participate in it full-time or as a job.
You are more likely to be working or running a business full time as an older person in their 40s or 50s, and you are more passionate about it. Motocross is not something you can do on the side or as a serious hobby if you are unable to take time off work and/or devote your weekends to family and friends.
Even if you manage to get to the tracks despite your schedule, think about the consequences for your job if you are wounded on the track. You could be out of work for a long time if you injure yourself while practicing rides (if not months). If you can’t afford to be unemployed for an extended period of time, motocross is probably not the sport for you.
Motocross, on the other hand, is not out of bounds if you have a substantial amount of free time and a desire for off-road biking. You should be more concerned about other issues rather than your age.
Learning Motocross as an Older Individual
Riding on the street and learning to ride motocross are two completely different experiences. If you’ve never done motocross before, it’s a good idea to learn the basics first. Examine the stunts that motocross riders perform to see if you’re up for it.
On practice days, go to the track to acquire a feel for the place. Begin slowly and modestly. Don’t stress about speed right now; you’ll be able to catch up later. Concentrate on the essentials initially, which include:
- Adjusting your bike’s suspension to your weight
- Get personalized riding lessons from an expert.
- Start with tabletops; don’t go for doubles just yet.
Things can be daunting at first, especially when high-flying dudes are around. However, after spending some time on the tracks, you should feel relaxed and at ease. Do not, however, get overconfident; instead, proceed with prudence.
The secret to learning to ride motocross is to take your time. To put it another way, never ride above your abilities. Slow down and gain confidence. You risk harming yourself if you jump the gun too soon. It goes without saying that as you get older, your chances of breaking a bone increase.
Age Isn’t the Most Important Factor; Physical Fitness Is.
Because age is the main topic of discussion here, let’s be clear: it doesn’t matter nearly as much as your overall health and fitness levels. Younger males (those in their 20s or 30s) have been known to be unable to ride motocross due to their “couch potato” lifestyle. Then there are the elderly gentlemen who have always taken care of their health and have been in good physical form throughout their lives, whizzing by on the track.
Dirt motorcycles need a lot of physical effort, especially when performing motocross stunts. If you desire to learn motocross riding but aren’t in decent physical shape, start by getting in shape. Even if you’re the slowest rider on the track, you won’t be able to handle the tracks if you’re not physically fit.
Take Riding Lessons From a Professional
Taking private lessons from an expert is advantageous since you will be able to focus more efficiently on your fundamentals. It can be difficult to learn things if you jump directly into the tracks.
Your focus would next shift to jumps and other high-flying stunts that you might not be ready for just yet. Another crucial aspect is to experiment with alternative songs or to mix things up. When you work with a pro, you’ll most likely ride on a variety of tracks and circumstances.
Self-study is preferred above professional coaching. It accelerates the rate at which you learn new skills, allowing you to become a better and safer rider in a shorter amount of time. If you’re considering how much money you’ll need for tutelage, you should also consider how much money you’ll need to treat your injuries if you get into an accident.
That’s a lot more than you’d pay a riding instructor. Not to mention the amount of agony and suffering you would experience as a result of your injuries. The bike may also sustain catastrophic damage, necessitating extensive repairs.
It simply does not make sense to spend thousands of dollars on a bike and then not invest a few hundred dollars on learning how to ride it safely. Remember that disciplined practice and lessons go hand in hand.
The most important thing is to be safe.
It’s not just about learning to execute various acrobatics on a dirt bike; it’s also about learning to ride it safely. Right motocross skills entail learning how to:
- hold the bike
- maintain proper body position
- utilize the back brake
- ride in a standing position rather than a seated one
These are some of the talents you’ll need to ride the rails safely. You will get more at ease with yourself as your skills improve, and you will enjoy the rides more.
While we’re on the subject of safety, you’ll want to make sure you have all of the necessary motocross gear, including; Jersey and Pants, Gloves, Boots, Helmet, Body Braces, Kidney Belt, Chest Protector, Knee Protection
Conclusion
To summarize, learning motocross is more on how fit and healthy you are than how old you are. Even if you are in your early 20s, you are not fit for motocross riding if you are obese or in poor shape.
Riding motocross is more about your thinking than anything else. You will not be n a position of learning if you are not mentally prepared, regardless of your age. Also, don’t be concerned about being judged on the tracks.
