Motocross facts for kids

Stefan Everts, a 10-time world champion in motocross.

Motocross is an exciting type of motorcycle racing. It happens on special dirt tracks, not on regular roads. Think of it as off-road racing! This sport started in the United Kingdom from motorcycle trials competitions. Motocross is super tough and needs a lot of strength. Riders compete in all kinds of weather, making it a very intense and fast-paced sport.

There are many different motocross races and events you can watch or even join.

Stay Safe: Motocross Gear

Motocross is a thrilling sport, but it can be dangerous. To keep riders safe and prevent injuries, everyone wears special protective gear. This gear helps protect different parts of the body.

Helmets

Motocross helmets are made to protect a rider's head and brain from hard hits. Modern helmets have a strong outer shell and soft padding inside. This padding helps absorb impacts from different directions. Straps keep the helmet firmly in place during a ride.

Goggles

Goggles are super important for protecting a rider's eyes. They keep out dirt, rocks, dust, and other small bits that fly around on the track. Motocross goggles have foam around the edges to seal them tightly to the face. They also have special lenses that prevent fogging. Some lenses are colored for different light conditions. Riders can even pull off or roll off clear plastic covers during a race to keep their view clean!

Knee Braces

Knee braces protect the knee joint. They have soft padding and a strong outer frame. This frame often has a hinge, allowing it to move with the knee while still offering support. They help prevent serious knee injuries.

Boots

Motocross boots are very different from regular motorcycle boots. They are built to protect a rider's legs, feet, and ankles from injury. These boots are usually made from thick leather and strong plastic shields. They have tough rubber soles and strong toe protectors. Motocross boots might feel stiff at first, almost like a cast. This is because they are designed to give maximum protection to your ankles and feet.

Images for kids

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  A motocross rider coming off a jump.

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  A Maico 360 cc motorcycle with an air-cooled engine.

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  A race from the FIM Motocross World Championship.

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  Motocross des Nations.

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  Jeremy McGrath, known as the "King of Supercross."

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  A rider doing a "superman seat-grab" trick.

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  A Supermoto rider on a road track.

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  Professional ATV racer Tim Farr at a motocross event.

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  A sidecar outfit with a Zabel engine.

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  Two riders going into a corner at a mini-motocross event.

See also

In Spanish: Motocross para niños