Motocross explained and guide to how it all began.
What is Motocross?
The definition on www.dictionary.co.uk is as follows.
noun {U} (ALSO scrambling)
the sport of racing over rough ground on specially strengthened motorcycles.
The following 6 paragraphs was adapted from the web.
By basic definition,
Motocross is riding a specially designed motorcycle, called a motocross
bike, on a closed course, consisting of a variety of terrain; uphill's,
downhill's, corners, jumps, etc. If you are racing, it is over a
set amount of time or laps, with the winner crossing the line first.
This varies depending on the club, or level that the rider is competing
at. Experts and professionals typically have longer races than novices.
A race day can be just one race, or 3 or more, again depending on
club and competition level.
Motocross Racing is for anyone from 4 upwards. ...Tracks are either
privately owned or belong to a club. These tracks are run in accordance
to the guidelines set by the local governing body, or their local
racing organisation or club. Each motocross track has a different
layout with its own uniqueness and special challenges. You can be
sure no two tracks are the same, adding to the reasons why it is
such a great spectator sport as well as fun to compete in.
The World of Motocross
Motocross racing is one of the few spectator sports that really
gives fans the unbeatable combination of sure-fire appeal. Thrills,
excitement, color, speed, strategy and endurance are all presented
in a natural panorama of nature.
While it may look simple to the onlooker, motocross competitors
are athletes in the strictest sense of the word. A recent study
conducted by the National Athletic Health Institute in California,
in cooperation with Cycle Magazine, proved the amazing fitness and
endurance that each of these young racers possess. Results of a
series of fitness tests to 9 top motocrossers showed conclusively
that these riders were the most physically fit athletes ever tested
by the Institute.
In motocross, endurance is the key factor. Sheer strength alone
is not enough to sustain a motocrosser for the many laps of relentless,
random pounding that each track dishes out.
However, while motocross truly tests athletes, it also serves to
satisfy man's fascination with motors and wheels to which the traditional
'stick and ball' sports cannot respond. Thus, motocross offers the
best of two worlds.