Where to ride your dirt bike

While the COVID-19 pandemic put the brakes on many aspects of our lives, it didn’t stop people buying new dirt bikes in droves, with the FCAI reporting 44,697 units sold in 2020. That is an increase of 30.3 per cent compared to 2019.

The reason for the increased sales isn’t exactly clear, but the theory is that people are looking for new hobbies and alternative forms of entertainment while international travel is off the cards. It appears off-road motorcycling was a popular choice.

Of course, all these new bikes likely means plenty of new riders, and these new riders will need somewhere to ride. But finding places to ride isn’t always that easy.

With increasing rules, regulations, red tape, and closures leaving us with less places to dirt surf legally, it can be hard to know where to go. But don’t fret, we’re here to help. Here is a quick and easy guide on where to ride your dirt bike.

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One of the first places to look is your local motocross track. The great thing about motocross tracks is that anyone can ride them, and there is likely one not too far away from where you live. While you may not have your sights set on racing or hitting big jumps, motocross tracks are a great way to get time on your bike.

Riding on the track can be a little intimidating at first, but if you’re mindful of faster riders, follow the track rules and etiquette, and ride at your own safe pace, you’ll be just fine. Most venues have a beginner and junior track, so it is worth starting off on these before hitting the big track. Motocross tracks are also great places to meet like-minded people and there are usually opportunities to get professional coaching.

Now, before you go racing out the door, these venues aren’t free. You’ll normally have to pay for day pass or membership. Depending on where you go, and what tracks you plan on riding, pricing can range from $20-$100. There are also longer-term memberships available.

Okay, so motocross isn’t for everyone, but you still want to ride in an organised and regulated environment. Well, fortunately there are a number of ride parks around the country which offer a more relaxed, family-friendly environment.

Most ride parks include a motocross track, but may also feature various other off-road courses including enduro loops, grass tracks, trials courses, and peewee areas. Some ride parks also include accommodation, catering facilities, and even mechanical assistance.

Like motocross tracks, ride parks do cost money, but they offer a great way to ride at your own pace in the discipline of your choice. The downside is that ride parks can be few and far between, and you’ll likely have to travel further to find one.

State and national parks offer a seemingly endless amount of riding and variety but, unlike the previous two examples, you must be licenced and registered to ride. That means little tackers and unregistered bikes must stay home or find an alternative.

Rules for riding in these areas vary from state to state, but generally, if you’re licensed and riding a registered bike, you can ride any of the marked dirt roads in state or national parks. Every state has its own government agency dedicated to managing parks and forests. Check with your local example to find maps, and to see if you can ride in a particular area.

For experienced enduro and trail riders, single track can be very enticing, but it’s worth noting that single track is generally illegal. Nearly every national park, and most state parks, require you to stick to the signposted and full-formed roads.

There is a lot of variety in these parks across the country, and there is usually terrain for all abilities. But it is important to remember that these are public areas and normal road rules apply. You’ll also be in the company of other riders, 4WD’s, hikers, horse riders and campers, many of which could be heading in the opposite direction. Riding in these areas requires preparation, local knowledge and a lot of common sense.

If you have your own property (or you know someone that does), then lucky you. You can ride for free regardless of age, bike type, discipline or time of the week or year. Your back yard is your riding playground, so do whatever makes you happy.

Of course, we’re talking about large-scale and rural properties here. I don’t think cutting laps around your inner-city backyard is going to work. It’s also important to be mindful and respectful of your neighbours. Even if you do live out bush, make sure that you’re not annoying other property owners around you with excessive noise.

But if you’re isolated and have room to roam, then you’re good to go. Even if you’re property is just grass paddocks, you could still set up a grass track, or even find a few logs, rocks and other items to practice your trials or extreme enduro skills on.

Regardless of where you ride, there are few important to remember. Firstly, make sure you have some sort of insurance coverage. Some venues will include this in the price, but it’s important you do your research. Motorcycling is dangerous and it’s better to be safe than sorry. Also make sure you are legally allowed to ride in your chosen location. And finally ensure your bike is properly maintained and you have the right safety gear. If all those boxes are ticked, then you’re good to ride!

This article was originally published on February 15, 2021.