Did you enjoy motor sports as a kid? If you did, you probably want your children to have the same joy that you did when you were young. Buying your child a go-kart or dirt bike before kindergarten starts is more common than you might think. Champions like Ricky Carmichael and Travis Pastrana have raised the bar for success in their sport before the age of 18. Travis started riding at age 4, Carmichael at 5.
Many organizations and motocross tracks have competition groups from the age of 4! The motocross team for young riders is improving along with the motocross team for adults. Bringing motorsports into a child’s life at an early age can be a valuable learning experience that will benefit them throughout their lives.
Most beginner motocross divisions start at age 4 on 50cc bikes. Experienced and talented 7-year-olds can start racing 65-90cc bikes on some tracks. If your child has limited experience on an off-road motorcycle, let him gain a year or two on the same 50cc bike. Some 50cc bikes are extremely fast and light. Your child can see speeds of 40 mph when he begins to use the full potential of the bike!
Racing safety always has to come first, especially with your children. If you’re on a budget, don’t skimp on security. Do your homework. Find the best quality motocross helmet and motocross gear. Chest protection, coat hanger protectors, and knee protection for children come in a variety of materials and styles. You may need to try a few before making a purchase. A young rider has enough to worry about without his resting guard bumping his chin with every stroke. If you want to save money, save money by buying the bike. As mentioned above, it will take a while before a child uses a 50cc to its full potential.
Another reason to save money on the bike is that someone will always spend more than you on your child’s bike. It will be a good strategy to teach your child to challenge his own ability early in his race rather than challenging other cyclists. Teach the idea of ”running on the race track.” Even professionals must remember this in times of high pressure. Share your improved lap times with your child instead of third or fourth place. Show your son or daughter that the fun of racing is the whole experience, not just the result. From getting up early to load the bike, to a week’s mechanical prep, it allows your child to participate in the whole experience. Racing experience can build confidence and many other “big picture” skills that stick and ball sports do not.
Do you still want to go racing? You are in the right place. Research your track and local organizations. Find quality motocross gear at the right price. Finally open the newspaper and look for a used bicycle. The memories and experiences that you and your family will have together will be unmatched. In what other competitive sport can the whole family be part of the team?