Behind the Scenes: Setting Up for a Successful Dirt Bike Race

why are dirt bikes so loud

When organising a dirt bike race, one of the most important jobs is preparing a suitable track. The surface needs to be hard enough to prevent too much wheel spin, but with enough loose dirt to allow the bikes to slide around corners. The track width should vary between 3-5 metres across, with elevation changes to add extra challenges. Sweeping berms (raised banks) on turns allow the riders to carry more speed. Double and triple jumps also test the skill of competitors. Safety is paramount, so run-off areas are included to prevent collisions with track barriers.

An army of diggers and bulldozers shape the dirt into whoops, tabletops and step-ups during the week prior. It takes experience to build a flowing track with enough variation to challenge amateur and professional riders alike. Changes in camber and off-camber turns add to the degree of difficulty. The morning of the event, water tankers spray parts of the track to improve moisture levels and prevent dust clouds forming. Track officials make a final inspection before opening practice sessions. Any ruts, holes, or hazardous sections are repaired. The track surface continually evolves once bikes start pounding around the course.

Equipment and Teams

Professional dirt bike teams arrive several days early in huge rigs and semi-trailers, packed with tools, spares and equipment. Mechanics set up pop-up pits and workshops, unpacking toolboxes onto temporary workbenches. Great organisation is vital to keep the team running smoothly during a high-pressure event. Hundreds of spare parts are arranged on shelves and shadow boards, with commonly used items close to hand. Racks display various mousse inserts and tyre options to suit changing track conditions.

The factory teams have semi-trucks with their team colours and graphics promoting sponsors. Inside, engineers make final checks on the bikes and maintain a database of engine and suspension settings suited to each rider. An awning extends out the side, under which riders can relax away from the crowds in between races. Catering trucks provide hospitality, including energy food, snacks, and drinks to keep the team nourished. Private motorhomes are used for accommodation at events lasting multiple days.

In the truck workshops, teams of mechanics prepare and maintain the bikes. Engines are stripped, barrels honed, new piston rings installed, and crankshafts trued. Hydraulic jacks lift machines for access underneath. Parts are cleaned by hands or in ultrasonic tanks before precise reassembly using calibrated torque wrenches. Exhausts systems are modified or replaced to find optimum power. Suspension components are disassembled, and damper fluids changed to match updated factory specifications from test riders. Attention to every detail gives the professional outfits an advantage.

In contrast, amateur riders often travel alone or in small groups, towing trailers with pop-up tents and only basic facilities. Nonetheless, they share the same passion and determination to compete. Some local race clubs band together, pooling spares and equipment. Club mates assist with things like mechanical preparation, last-minute adjustments, and moral support.

Venue Infrastructure

Marquees and temporary structures transform a dusty field into race-day infrastructure. Power and water services need to be installed, including portable toilets. A full public address system connects across the paddock and spectator zones. Timing systems with sensors and displays at the start and finish line allow accurate race scoring. Food vendors are arranged into a temporary food court, supplying everything from hot dogs to gourmet burgers while merchandise stands are piled high with team and event branded clothing and souvenirs.

For competitor safety, the perimeters must be secured with sturdy Seton traffic barriers. Strict spectator zones are established behind these barriers to prevent access to hazardous areas, including take-off and landing points on jumps. Security staff also patrol to prevent trespassing. Paramedics are stationed trackside in ambulances or medical tents that contain lifesaving equipment. Hopefully, their services will not be required.

Inspecting the track requires officials wearing distinctive safety vests so they are visible to riders. Marshals with flags are posted at key points to warn of dangers. Two-way radios coordinate medical responses if crashes occur. Helicopters with stretcher access must be on standby for the most serious incidents. Track preparation teams remain vigilant during practice and racing, analysing the surface evolution and standing by with rakes, spades and heavy machinery to rectify issues.

Race Day Adventure

After months of preparation, race day finally arrives. From early morning, the atmosphere builds amongst competitors and spectators alike. Final bike checks are made as riders add tape and secure finishing touches like custom fork protectors. Friends and family wish their loved one’s good luck as the riders head out for warmup laps before opening ceremonies. Fans flock to prime trackside locations while heart rates rise as engines rev, signalling the first wave of riders lining up on the start straight ready to drop the gate and launch into race speed.

In this maelstrom of competition, mistakes often occur in the heat of the moment. Competitors push to unreasonable limits and crashes are inevitable. In a cloud of dust, a rider slides out on a flat turn, unable to pick the bike up before the pack storms through. Others collide in mid-air while crossing jumps. Then there are those that land heavily from the sky as take-off ramps launch them high and long. Spills naturally draw gasps and cheers from spectators, mixed with a little bit of empathy for the fallen. Marshals rush to assist and check for injury while the race continues at full pace. In the blink of an eye, a race can be lost. The risks are real, but brave riders will dust themselves off to fight another day.

When the chequered flag eventually waves, elation and despair are etched on the exhausted riders’ faces. This is the moment that makes the blood, sweat and tears worthwhile, victory rewarding weeks of dedication with the glory of first place. Congratulations echo from fans applauding trackside and those watching livestream feeds worldwide. However, the fierce competition will soon resume, prowling the start line, awaiting the next opportunity to unleash maximum power.

You might also enjoy