Heya 250girl! You've come to the right place! While I'm not a pro racer, I was in your shoes not so long ago and might be able to offer a little help!
250girl said:
How does one go about upgrading from a geeky backwoods trail rider on a bike way too huge for her to racing??
First off, it's hard work, and not a simple upgrade. Luckily, you've gotten past one of the hardest steps for any female! You're already riding, and judging by what I've read, you can handle a clutch already!
Here's the next step though - Get a good solid pair of boots! I made the mistake of not doing this, and I was limping for weeks. I was lucky not to have broken my leg!
250girl said:
How do you get into racing?? And how good of a rider do you have to be??
The first question here is a little difficult to answer without a little more background info on your behalf. Is there a local track just down the road? Have you gone to any races? Do you have friends or people at your school or workplace that race?
If you know of someone in your area, talk to them!! Ask questions! Whatever you do, don't let them tell you that you don't have the skills to race! Motocross is a learning process, and you have to start somewhere! Go to a track, and find out practice times! When you arrive, take your time and check things out.
250girl said:
I have never even been on a track,or gone over a jump(on purpose anyways). All of these technical instructions on how to ride a bike through corners and over jumps and how much gas to give it when and where confuse the heck out of me. I never learned to ride like that. I just went out alone on the 250(which I was utterly terrified of for the first 4 months)and hung on for dear life.I have been riding the trails almost every day for about 3 years now,and have learned how to handle it a lot better,and not drop it when I stop :laugh: But I love going fast,and would love to get into racing or freestyle jumping.
This is where things get interesting! Once you have some gear - boots, long pants, long sleeved shirt, helmet, and goggles at bare minimum!!! - Load up your 250 and visit a practice session at a track!
Watch other people to see what they do - ask lots of questions! If it looks like there's too much to handle all at once, don't force it!
This is where you put on your gear, and take your bike out for a lap. Don't worry about cornering, don't worry about doing jumps, don't worry about riding fast!
Just hold your line!
All that means is to keep your bike under *your* control, and DON'T try to move out of the way when other riders pass you.
When you crash, pick the bike up and jump back on! (I have been known to take a bow or two if I make it a spectacularly goofy crash :) )
250girl said:
So do I have any chance of ever racing,or do I have to be a more experienced rider?
If you can keep the bike under your control after the first lap or so, then absolutely! If not, don't sweat it! Just take a little time practicing things like going over bumps and hills or riding through ditches. Show up and try again!
Don't expect to be a superstar your first race! You may get lapped! As long as you're having a good time, and staying safe, there are no problems!
250girl said:
You can do it!
250girl said:
...are you required to have certain protective gear? I currently ride in jeans,runners and whatever shirt I happen to be wearing(I have quite a few injuries and scars to show for my lack of gear).The only gear I have is a new helmet,gloves and a pair of way too huge biking boots that I don't wear.
Yes there is required gear!
For "my" races last year, the organizers required: Full coverage helmet (DOT approved!) with shield or goggles, over the ankle boots (motocross boots preferred for your own protection), full arm and leg coverage, chest protector for riders under 18.
Gear that was reccommended for all riders: Gloves, Chest Protector, Elbow pads, Knee pads, Neck protection, Kidney belt.
Check with their rules - as different tracks require different gear!
250girl said:
One more question,is there a minimum size/height for riders who want to race on a 250?I am about 5'6'' or 7'' and weigh roughly 135,more when I am more fit and in shape(it is winter,I am being lazy and out of shape) :nod:
I have heard of no restrictions on that at all! I'm 5'2" and am looking at a 250 for a possible next bike!
250girl said:
I am sorry if I sound a little dumb,I know nothing about racing. But any info would be greatly appriciated,thanks everybody,
250girl
1 - There are no dumb questions! 2 - I hope this helps! We'd love to hear you experiences!! 3 - If you ever have any questions, we'd be glad to answer them!
- Tolle'