4 Tips for Motorcycle Racing Safety

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As a motorcycle racer, your goal is to be the fastest on the track. However, speed should never compromise safety. There are ways to keep yourself safe AND take home the win. Before you go full throttle on the track, check out Cycle Trader’s four tips for motorcycle racing safety.

1. Learn the Correct Riding Techniques

There are several techniques to utilize when racing on a track. Everything starts with learning the proper skills at a riding school. Many motorcycle clubs require riders to take and pass instruction at an authorized school.

These instructional lessons can teach you the fundamentals, including body position, steering, smooth throttle control, braking, and even where to look while you’re on the track. A good coach can also identify and address any areas of your technique that need improvement.

We do not recommend entering any races until you’ve learned proper riding techniques from an experienced, knowledgeable instructor. 

2. Wear the Right Gear

All riders, including casual weekend cruisers, can benefit from having the right gear. However, when you’re racing at high speeds, you’ll need more than just a helmet and leather motorcycle jacket. Here are some essential pieces of gear that motorcycle racers should wear:

• Helmet
• Knee Pads
• Elbow Pads
• Gloves
• Boots
• Race suit or riding jacket and pants

Full helmets offer the most protection for racers, covering the top and lower parts of your head. If you have a flip-up helmet, ¾ helmet, or ½ helmet, you should also wear goggles to keep dirt and other debris out of your eyes.

Racers can utilize other protective gear, such as back and chest protectors and body armor, to enhance your safety on a race track and cushion your body in case of a fall.

3. Perform a Pre-Race Inspection

Before a competition bike can hit the track, it first has to pass a technical inspection. Races, including ones sanctioned by the American Federation of Motorcyclists, have technical inspectors that judge the safety of a competing motorcycle at a race.

To ensure the safety of your bike, and make sure you’re able to compete, perform a quick inspection of your motorcycle. The extent of the technical inspection varies, depending on which race class you’re entering. In general, you should take a look at the following on your motorcycle before a race:

• Full operation of handlebars and controls
• Fuel, oil, and other fluid fittings secured and leak free
• Properly inflated tires
• Efficient front and rear braking

These measures are not just important for your safety, but for the wellbeing of the other riders on the track.

4. Stay Hydrated and Healthy

Many first-time racers don’t realize how physical riding can be. That’s why it’s so important to stay hydrated and healthy. The last thing you need is to get a cramp or hunger pangs when you’re making a hairpin turn. Like any sport, drinking lots of water and having a nutritious meal on race day is a key part to your success and safety on the track.

It’s not just your physical health to prioritize. Race day can make some riders feel anxious and tense up on the track. It’s important to get on your bike with the right mindset. Before the race begins, take some time to calm your nerves so your sole focus is on racing safely.

Racing your bike at high speeds is the ultimate adrenaline rush, which is why it’s important to stay safe as you push yourself and your motorcycle to the limit. Having the proper skills, the right gear, a dependable bike, and a healthy mind and body can ensure a safe and fun experience on the track for all riders.

If you’re ready to hit the track, find a new or used motorcycle to race on the nationwide online marketplace at CycleTrader.com.

Important Disclaimer: Motorcycle racing involves numerous and significant risks to you and your property, including personal injury, property damage, and potentially death. Cycle Trader is not an expert with regard to motorcycle racing and these materials contain only suggested techniques and not expert or professional advice of any kind whatsoever. You should only undertake motorcycle racing with or after you have received proper instruction from certified professionals who are trained in preserving the safety of your property and person and who have obtained all licenses, permits, and other certifications required by applicable business and/or government authorities or agencies to undertake any such activities.

Arielle Patterson

Arielle is a freelance writer for Trader Interactive with a background in marketing, as well as print and web editorial content. Along with writing, Arielle's other hobbies include traveling, her food blog, and staying up to date on the latest in pop culture.

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