Motocross is a great sport – the electrifying crowds, the thrilling turns, breathtaking jumps – all combining to make it so loved, with many passionate riders making their mark year after year. What could make motocross even more satisfying? Riding the right way should count. For those wondering how, read this guide to prep for the next time you find yourself on the track.

Do – keep to the line

Focus is a key aspect in this sport, especially when you’re at the starting line. Keep your goal for success in mind, and you will have a clearer view of what you have to do. The first turn is just the beginning of that adrenaline rush. Keep to it and you’ll do well.

Do – use your tear-off gear to the full

A pair of tear-offs is a great friend to have on the track. The clear faux lenses can save you a lot of trouble and hassle when going through those rough tracks that kick up a lot of mud and dust. Clear vision is a must at all times when riding, so don’t forget your own pair when going out riding.

Do – be aware of your feet in the ruts

The ruts on each track have different depths that you have to be mindful of. Pick up your leg on courses that have deeper ruts as getting your boot stuck in a deep one will not be good for your lap time.

Do – switch in the right way

When it comes to whips and scrubs, there are fairly steady patterns to follow on certain jumps throughout the course. This is why it’s best for you as a rider to conform to the rest of the pack as one switch in the wrong path and you might land yourself in danger. This could lead to accidental cross-overs to other lines that other riders are following.

Don’t – jump the gate

The intense focus you employ at the beginning of the line requires much mental strength and coordination, which is why you might find yourself easily slipping away and relying on basic senses. This could include sight and sound, and even the smallest stimulation can push you to slam harder on your throttle. Keep in mind to not to let yourself get stuck at the gate for the smallest of distractions so that you can keep to your technique.

Don’t – have a roll-off glitch

A roll-offs pair is great for convenience, but just like many technological items, they can just as easily hinder your riding capabilities. With roll-offs, you get what seems like an endless availability of clear lenses with just a pull of the string. Just keep in mind that even just a small piece of wayward rock can make your lenses load up with soil and obstruct your sight line.

Don’t – scrape your boot excessively during scrubs

Great risks sometimes have big payoffs that make all the trouble worth it. Just be sure you know the consequences beforehand to avoid putting yourself in too much danger. This applies to boot scraping when scrubbing.

Don’t – leave open your inside

Your choice of line is a crucial deciding factor when you’re out on the track. This is especially true in the case of the best races in the world, where you can’t afford to have room for competitors. An open inside line will pose a great threat to your chances, so always be aware of what you do.

Don’t – let your front fall into the sand

Riding on sand can be incredibly complex. This is why you must always keep your weight at the back at all times. Keep your front end high and you’ll be able to cope better with the mechanisms of sand and the difficulties it presents.

Success in motocross riding not only relies on discipline and level of skill but also in being mindful of the best practices to do while out on the track. These do’s and don’ts are just some of the things that riders employ to have a better performance while riding. Following them will only lead to improvement and an easier time.