History & Facts on Freestyle Motocross

Motorcycles have been on the road for more than a century, since their conception in the 1800s. Today, this unpretentious vehicle has several sports to its name, from variants of racing to acrobatics. Freestyle motocross is an aspect of motocross where racing is not the main goal, but performing astounding stunts and aerial tricks on a motocross bike.

Competitions

Freestyle motocross competitions are mostly done in two formats. One is the best trick format, wherein each competitor has a given number of chances---usually three---to land a trick off a ramp. Another setup is the timed competition, wherein a rider can perform tricks continuously within a certain time limit. This second format is done on a circular track with various types of jumps for uninterrupted stunts. A board of judges then determines the winners based on execution, style and difficulty of the stunts performed.

Origins

As the number of motorcycle riders boomed in growth during the early 1900s, a race around a simple dirt track in 1924 spawned this adrenaline-packed sport. It is believed that a "scrambles off-road race" in Camberley, Surrey, England, was the event from which the present freestyle motocross has evolved.

1930s to 1970s

The public soon came to hear about this new sport, causing an increase in its popularity during the 1930s. Events including teams from various areas and companies would be held in Britain, and through the years, its popularity spread to neighboring countries. The event later evolved as European riders modified the course obstacles and added more twists to the sport.

As the event courses became more challenging and the competitions more intense, motorcycles and equipment had to be upgraded, producing high-quality motorbikes for enthusiasts. The 1960s saw motorcycle companies from various countries thriving and coming up with the latest and sturdiest models.

1980s to 21st Century

Innovations in the technology used for designing motocross bikes rapidly improved during the 1980s. Europeans tended to win the majority of events, but American riders soon caught up. The 1990s saw new laws ensuring that the production of motorcycles for these competitions---particularly the four-stroke bikes---would comply with ecological standards. Today, the lighter two-stroke engines capture the spotlight and make freestyle motocross the sport it is today. The tricks and jumps are now very popular, and because of the many enthusiasts of this sport, the International Freestyle Motocross Association was formed. Many contests are held yearly and sponsored by various companies and organizations.

Equipment

The gear used for freestyle motocross is very similar to the typical motorbike racing gear. Typical safety gear, such as helmets, gloves, goggles and boots, are worn on top of a jersey and motocross pants, supplemented with the occasional knee and elbow pads. Body armor is often worn as a precautionary measure, especially when doing dangerous tricks.

References

• Freestyle Motocross: History of Motocross
• Total Motocross: The Future