If your child or teen has recently expressed an interest in motocross, don't dismiss it out of hand. Motocross is a challenging but fun hobby, gets kids away from their electronics and outside in the fresh air, and is a great way to make new friends. Motocross is fun for all ages and skill levels, so you may find that once one child gets hooked, soon your whole family will have a new hobby and way to spend time together. Here are three tips for parents of kids who want to ride motocross:
Start with the Right Bike
While dirt bikes aren't designed specifically for children, there are plenty of smaller and less powerful models that are easy and safe for kids to ride. It's a good idea to spend time talking to your local motocross store personnel about their recommendations. Shops like Bob Lanphere's Beaverton Motorcycles can suggest specific bike models and let your child test them out for the best fit. It's a good idea to start out with a less powerful bike that is small enough for your child to comfortably ride.
Invest in Safety Gear
At a minimum, your child will need sturdy motocross boots, a leather motocross jacket to protect from scrapes as well as the elements, and a properly fitted helmet. A protective vest or even a full body motocross suit with padding in all the right places are also wise investments.
Spending more money up front on high quality safety gear will give both you and your child a lot more peace of mind. Your child will not be riding at very fast speeds as a beginner, but they are still likely to fall once or twice and it's important that they are as protected as possible.
Sign Them Up for Practice Classes
Most motocross tracks have practice classes at scheduled times. These classes are usually divided by type of bike or experience level. Your child will get plenty of practice riding their new dirt bike, and will learn the best techniques for safe riding.
You may also want to find a motocross instructor who offers private lessons. They can work with your child one on one, helping to build both their skills and their confidence on a bike. Eventually, your child may also want to sign up for competitive races in addition to their classes.
As long as your child joins a good practice class and wears safety equipment, you can rest easy knowing they are safely enjoying their exciting new hobby.
