I will do my best to answer most of these questions in this article and maybe some more that were overlooked. Racing can be a daunting task for a new rider or a newbie to racing to think about tackling. It has a whole new set of responsibilities to consider beyond going trail riding with some buddies on the weekend. Race preparation must be considered among other things. During a day of joy riding, if a chain breaks, simply pack up and head home, no big deal. But during racing, the travel is typically farther, there is admission to the track, entry fees for the race and a battle for the top of the class at the end of the year is always a thought. So an ill prepared bike holds a lot more dire consequences when racing.

Ill start from the beginning; being successful on a bike starts with being comfortable on a bike. Just because the biggest baddest bike on the market just came out does not mean it will do well. Horse power and expense by no means equal a podium spot. Just ask any C class rider that has over ten thousand of upgrades to their bike and still hasn’t gotten first even in his/her class.  Go to several dealers, sit on the bikes, and check out all their specifications. Ride a few buddies’ bikes; rent something at a track if that is available. Make sure the bike is right before purchasing. The worst experience for a new rider is to spend six thousand on a new bike and race one race and not be comfortable on it. It’s a very important decision that can’t be taken lightly.