We\u2019ve put together this guide for anyone looking to take their riding up a gear and into competitive racing. We can\u2019t guarantee you\u2019ll get to Rossi\u2019s level, however, we can ensure that you’ll have all the correct information to get off the mark and be safe tearing up the tarmac.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n
Step 1: Get the Right Motorcycle for the Job<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
To get started in motorcycle racing, you\u2019re obviously going to need a motorcycle. However, not any old motorcycle will do.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
There are a number of considerations you\u2019ll need to make when choosing your racing bike. If you\u2019ve got the right one already, you\u2019re good to go! If you\u2019re in the market, there are a few things to take into account.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You\u2019re going to want to set a budget for your racing motorcycle early on. Otherwise, you could be stretched beyond your means and be left with less money to spend on what you actually got the motorcycle for: motorcycle racing. <\/p>\n\n\n\n What\u2019s more, you\u2019re going to be using more motorcycle consumables when riding. To name a few, here are some motorcycle consumables you\u2019ll be switching more regularly:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Therefore, be sure to factor motorcycle consumables into your racing motorcycle budget, too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n If you\u2019ve decided to use an ICE motorcycle, you\u2019ll need to know how many CCs (cubic capacity) you\u2019re going to need – the higher the CCs, the quicker your motorbike will be. <\/p>\n\n\n\n If you\u2019re a more seasoned rider, you may be interested in a 600cc-1,000cc superbike. These motorcycles are extremely powerful and can give you a leg up into a real MotoGP experience straightaway. That being said, they may be a little too powerful if you\u2019re starting out. If you\u2019re new to motorcycle racing, 450cc to 600cc may be an easier – and more forgiving – route into the sport. Some people even start out racing on 125cc-300cc bikes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Alternatively, more and more riders are looking at electric motorcycles for racing. As touched on, gas motorcycles require a lot of maintenance<\/a> and consumables. An electric motorcycle, on the other hand, has significantly fewer moving parts and, as a result, significantly less maintenance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The rise in racers riding electric motorcycles has led to some tracks improving their infrastructure specifically for EVs, although this is not the norm. At this time, charging infrastructure and technology are not yet ideal for racing with an electric motorcycle. However, anyone who has followed the MotoE\u2122 Cup<\/a> can attest that electric motorcycles can really go – and the tradeoff may be worth it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Like ICE motorcycles, there are electric motorcycles available for all skill sets. For instance, Damon\u2019s HyperSport Premier & HS models both have 200 horsepower and a top speed of 200 MPH, very much suited to a more experienced rider. However, for a racing newbie, our SE model has 100 horsepower and a top speed of 120 MPH.<\/p>\n\n\n\n As you can see, no matter where you\u2019re at ability-wise, there\u2019s an electric motorcycle<\/a> out there for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n It\u2019s important that you ride a motorcycle that makes you feel both safe and comfortable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n While licensed motorcycle racing and track days allow you to test yourself in a controlled, motorcycle-friendly environment – and in the correct motorcycle gear – you still shouldn\u2019t take motorcycle safety lightly. Riding a motorcycle that doesn\u2019t match your ability and comfort levels could lead to severe damage to your motorcycle and, more importantly, cause you injuries that could keep you off the circuit. Make sure to ride a motorcycle that will allow you to focus on improving your skills, rather than managing the bike.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Then, there\u2019s your own comfort. Motorcycle racing is grueling<\/em>. Therefore, you need to ensure you\u2019re in the correct motorcycle riding position<\/a> when you dig into those corners and when you\u2019re leaning in a sportbike riding posture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s recommended that you brush up on your technique with some lessons, but in addition, it\u2019s also paramount that you have the right bike for racing. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n No matter what your skill level, the next step is to get comfortable with your own motorcycle. How long does it take to get comfortable on a motorcycle? Well, that depends on a few factors:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Only you will really know when you\u2019re really completely comfortable. That being said, while it can take a weekend to learn how to ride a motorcycle, getting objectively good at riding can take one to two years. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The main takeaway here is to take your time. When it comes to getting comfortable on your own motorcycle, slow and steady wins the race (but make sure you drop that mantra by the time you hit the track).<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n It\u2019s now time to take the training wheels off your bike and head to a track day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Motorcycle track days allow you to improve your technical riding skills in a controlled environment. Furthermore, you can gain real racing track experience, take classes with other motorcycle enthusiasts, and not have to worry about cars or speed limits! Pretty great, huh?<\/p>\n\n\n\n Now, let’s get back to those classes. Well-trained control riders are on hand to offer advice on how to improve your racing skills. Here are some of the skills you\u2019ll learn or be able to master throughout the day at an official track day school:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Track days are becoming increasingly popular amongst riders. As a result, there are many organizations running different events, and finding a motorcycle track day is pretty straightforward. If you\u2019re not too fussed about where and when, simply Google track days near me and take it from there.<\/p>\n\n\n\n However, if you\u2019re a new rider, look for motorcycle track days for beginners<\/a> that have the best resources for your unique needs. For example, look for events that include training and coaching options. A lot of organizations will offer discounts and training for new riders. So, even if it\u2019s not displayed on the event details, don\u2019t be afraid to ask! <\/p>\n\n\n\n PRO TIP: <\/em><\/strong>If you want to really improve your riding technique and hit the racing track sooner, you should consider taking additional coaching lessons – whether in a group on a track day or privately. <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n Now you\u2019ve got the bike, it\u2019s time to join a motorcycle racing club. There are numerous clubs out there so nine times out of ten, it will come down to following your buddies to where they race. If you\u2019re riding solo, be sure to do some research into which tracks and clubs are within reach and see who races there. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Whether you\u2019re riding with your pals or joining a club alone, you should familiarize yourself with the club\u2019s rulebook and regulations. This is easily and often overlooked, yet vitally important. Club rulebooks will tell you:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Failure to follow club rules may prevent you from racing and result in a fine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n PRO TIP: <\/em><\/strong>Make sure your club and track are local to you. Motorcycle track days and racing days are hard on your body and a day on the track will really take it out of you. So, you\u2019ll want your own bed to be close by. If you are traveling overnight for a track day, make sure to take an RV and tent or put yourself up in a nearby hotel. <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n If you\u2019re serious about motorcycle racing, you may have already done this. If you haven\u2019t gotten your racing license yet, it\u2019s recommended you do so ASAP. <\/p>\n\n\n\n In fact, a lot of clubs will require proof that you are both safe and competent before letting you loose on the track. If this is the case, you should check for a track that has new racer school (NRS) sessions. In addition, check with your club to see which school they recognize before booking. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n Signing up for your motorcycle racing license varies slightly depending on the organization, but the general process is the same. It\u2019s also super easy to do. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Don\u2019t believe us? Well, here\u2019s a handy infographic with the 6 simple steps involved in becoming a racing license holder. <\/p>\n\n\n\n You\u2019re almost there. You\u2019ve got your bike, joined a club, and signed up for your racing license – now all you need is to prepare your track bike<\/a> and your mind for race day. Because all of this amounts to nothing without the right mindset. <\/p>\n\n\n\n A motorcycle racing weekend is more intense than regular riding. In fact, a single day at the track at an intermediate level can require the same amount of effort needed for four CrossFit sessions! Therefore, you need to take motorcycle fitness<\/a> seriously, and prepare yourself to be in the right physical and mental shape for racing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n That means no heavy sessions the night before or running on only triple shots of espresso the morning of. Instead, prepare yourself with a healthy breakfast and drink plenty of water throughout the day. Without adequate hydration, you run the risk of cramping up in the middle of a race. This puts yourself and others around you in danger. <\/p>\n\n\n\n On top of that, make sure you\u2019re in the right headspace to ride. Motorcycle racing requires you to be completely in the game. So, if you\u2019re not feeling it, sit it out and revisit the track another day. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n It\u2019s time to hit the track! Motorcycle racing is super fun and helps you gain a new appreciation and skills for riding. Of course, don\u2019t expect yourself to become a pro overnight, and never underestimate the need for improvement and riding classes. <\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Damon](\"https:\/\/damon.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/Damon-Hypersport-HS-On-Race-Circuit.jpg\")
Set Your Budget – And Don\u2019t Forget About Motorcycle Consumables<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
How Much Power Are You Going For?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"Dom](\"https:\/\/damon.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/Dom-Kwong-Damon-COO.jpg\")
Comfort and Safety<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Step 2: Get Comfortable With Your Motorcycle<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Step 3: Go to a Motorcycle Track Day<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"amber](\"https:\/\/damon.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/Amber-Spencer-Riding-On-Track.jpg\")
Step 4: Join a Club<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"yellow](\"https:\/\/damon.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/Motorcycle-Race-Track-Paddock.jpg\")
Step 5: Get Your Racing License<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
How to Get a Motorcycle Racing License<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"a](\"https:\/\/damon.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/How-To-Get-A-Motorcycle-Racing-License-1024x640.jpg\")
Step 6: Prepare Yourself Mentally & Physically <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Step 7: RACE!<\/h2>\n\n\n\n