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GangGreen
12/26/2018 8:00am
12/26/2018 8:00am
Edited Date/Time
12/28/2018 9:52am
I overheard a conversation regarding a recent motocross race in Florida. It seems there was an “Over35 No Jumping” class. Now typically I’m in favor of much fewer classes. No need to copy the ridiculous Limella Lynn’s class list for local events. Just Expert, Amateur, 30+, 40+, 50+, 50cc, 80cc, and longer motos. I also feel no need for a separate 250cc and 450cc Novice class.
That being said, I’m intrigued by this, and would love to know how it works. Do flagmen wave flags on the biggest jumps? Must riders roll everything, or there a go around bail out? From experience, often times there is one jump that if I’m not doing it, there’s almost no way to win. It’s usually a stupid, unnecessary, 55mph mid-straightaway and with balls you could jump it on a XR750 Harley.
Thoughts?
That being said, I’m intrigued by this, and would love to know how it works. Do flagmen wave flags on the biggest jumps? Must riders roll everything, or there a go around bail out? From experience, often times there is one jump that if I’m not doing it, there’s almost no way to win. It’s usually a stupid, unnecessary, 55mph mid-straightaway and with balls you could jump it on a XR750 Harley.
Thoughts?
I had a great time. I got 2nd and was neck and neck with the leader. Lots of planning on the corners and trying to find the best way from obstacle to obstacle. He had obviously raced it before because he knew the best lines but it was a great time and I was more focused on the actual racing than other classes where I was more concerned about setting myself up for the jumps.
Ivan
No jumping class should just be a beginner (D) class. If you dont want to jump, find some turn track races or something.
The Shop
Seriously though, I would not be opposed to a few tracks without jumps or with very few jumps that are on the smaller side and just table tops. Let those tracks get rough and have a more old school feel! That would be a blast to me!
I like the idea of races with less jumps. For many working people, the risk/reward isn't worth it. I remember back in the late 80's when the arenacross races in Ohio would make a rule that the minis were not allowed to jump the finish line. While I'm sure the 1 or 2 guys who were jumping it disagreed, it was overall a safer environment for everyone on the track.
That said, I also feel there should be "no jump limit" classes for those who want to complete at that level.
At some vet tracks (jumps but very tame and safe, but the in some parts
Of the country they are pretty extreme.
Also didnt there use to be TT races?
You obviously haven't been to Perris raceway recently.
I'm sure there are others out there like me that would mix it up without the physical dangers. I endorse this idea and think it would be great fun to race in a class that was all about the racing without the jumps.
Pit Row
Personally i dont like Riding through
Heavily Treed area's
It's basically only as dangerous as the rider makes it.
"I endorse this idea and think it would be great fun to race in a class that was all about the racing without the jumps."
That type of racing would be called short track or tt.
Almost everyone can jump a ski jump if not? roll it!
https://youtu.be/FfOHHmkos1Q
Flat track racing isn't motocross, and that's what we want to do. I get that jumps are a big part of things, but if people set up a class specifically for guys that want to enjoy motocross without risking broken bones, sign me up.
And yes, I know I could be hurt doing 50mph down a straight. I get it. In the end, I dig this idea. As for attendance, when you're going in almost $10k to have a competitive bike with appropriate gear, that's the largest issue for attendance. (IMO)
As for wanting to win...I really wouldn't care. I bet you $10 I'd be competitive with many out there if I wasn't having to hit a sketchy jump...but coming in 5th place while having a blast and NOT risking my neck sounds like a great Saturday to me.
EDIT to add: As others have commented, a hybrid is probably the best. i.e. You have to roll the big double, but the tabletop is up to you. I mean, some obstacles like tabletops are pretty safe and shouldn't be an issue.
just kidding, had to say it though
But if you don't want to jump anything I would ride beginner or race in the woods.
If there’s some ridiculous jump that some dood is hitting it won’t make a difference in a race, guy is usually faster anyway. Also have had situations where I’m not the fastest but willing to jump something and I gain an advantage. Just depends on track. That’s life and Moto.
I will say this, it’s worth improving skills in jumping. No different than any aspect of MX. Get one on one coaching. I know a guy, a Vet, that started very late in life. He has had coaching and his skills have improved to the point that he’s a better jumper than many riders who’ve been doing it since youth. Go figure. He’s very calculated, not just sending it. It’s a learned skill just like the rest of Moto. Play around on a jump or two that you are comfortable with, different throttle, seat bouncing, standing, preload, etc. learn what bike does.
This is what I tell guys, myself included: “Don’t think about what can go wrong, think about what can go right.” Sounds dumb maybe, but works, power of positive thinking!
Seen guys breakthrough and finally bust something out and they are the happiest MF’rs on the planet! Great feeling and to me what separates Moto from other two wheel racing.
Most fun I’ve had Racing a motorcycle in the past 5 years: Full Gas Sprint Enduro Harleywood Cross test. Picture dosen’t show the elevation but there were 3 ski jump style jumps you could hit wide open. Single file start, run your best time, no one to land on you, no worries about someone riding over their skill level and cleaning you out. Just you, the bike, and the course.
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