Motocross Riding Tips and Techniques: Off-Road Motorcycle Racing

Motocross is our ticket of choice to adrenaline-filled weekends and a whole lot of dirt under our boots, but there is some skill, grit, and dare required to tackle the jumps and trails.

If you are new to dirt bikes or you’ve been cruising paved roads for years, stepping into the motocross arena is a whole different ball game. It’s about balance, control, and precision on tracks that push your limits. There are sharp turns, steep hills, and unpredictable terrain that’s as challenging as it is exhilarating.  

The right techniques and know-how are vital to keep yourself (and your bike) in one piece, and this guide of motocross riding tips is here to help.

Motocross isn’t just about revving the throttle and flying through the air—it’s a sport that demands precision, skill, and a deep understanding of your bike’s capabilities.

Body positioning is the foundation of control

Your posture on a motocross bike is everything—it affects how you balance, maneuver, and respond to the track’s challenges. A solid attack position sets the stage for better handling and smoother rides:  

• Think of your back and core as the anchor points that stabilise your movements. Keep your back straight and engage your core to maintain control, especially over rough terrain.  
• Keep your elbows up to ensure maximum control of the handlebars, making it easier to react to sudden changes in the track.  
• Flexibility in your hips allows for fluid movements, crucial for absorbing shocks and maintaining balance.  
• Keep your feet light and responsive on the pegs, with most of your weight on the balls of your feet. This position helps absorb impact and improves bike handling.  

Cornering techniques to navigate tricky turns   

Corners are where races are won (or lost). Mastering cornering involves off-road motorcycle training focusing on timing, positioning, and flow:  

• Start braking and shifting your weight forward as you approach the corner. To maintain smoother transitions, avoid over-relying on the clutch.  
• Decide your path before entering the turn. The inside line is faster but trickier, while the outside offers better stability.  
• Keep your upper body relatively upright while leaning the bike into the turn. This technique helps maintain balance and control.  
• Extend your inside leg forward for balance and keep your outside foot grounded on the peg for stability.  
• Once you’re past the apex, gently accelerate while repositioning your inside foot back on the peg. 

Jumping techniques to fly with confidence

Few things in motocross match the thrill of a perfectly executed jump. But control is everything here:  

• Picture the approach, airtime, and landing in your mind before you attempt the jump.  
• Maintain a neutral posture and stand on the pegs, knees slightly bent, and grip the bike with your legs. Your head should stay up, with eyes focused forward.  
• Steady throttle control is key. Avoid last-second gear changes or jerky movements that could throw off your balance.  
• As you descend, keep your grip on the bike firm and aim to land on the back wheel. Gradually boost the throttle to stabilise your bike as it hits the ground.  

Braking and acceleration are all about speed control  

The delicate dance between braking and accelerating is fundamental to motocross. Knowing when and how to apply brakes or hit the throttle can make all the difference in your motorcycle racing approach:  

• Use both the front and rear brakes with a light touch. Overusing either can lead to a skid or an unwanted bike flip.  
• Don’t shy away from full throttle when you need to pick up speed. A steady hand on the throttle ensures smooth acceleration and better control. 
• Challenge yourself to complete laps within specific time frames to build your confidence and refine your technique.   

These motocross riding tips go hand-in-hand with a well-looked-after ride. Tyreman M/C is here to offer motorcycle tyre fitting and balancing services in Melbourne to make sure you hit the trails with the right tyres in the best condition. It’s important for performance, but even more important for safety. Trust our expert team to set you up for motocross success.

What are the most important skills to focus on for beginner motocross riders?

Start with throttle control, as learning to balance power smoothly prevents stalling or accidental surges. Practice gradually increasing and decreasing throttle input on flat, even terrain. Next, focus on gear changes. Learn to listen to your bike’s engine—high revs mean it’s time to shift up, while struggling sounds indicate a downshift. Smooth transitions using the clutch and shifter and body positioning are also critical skills. Stand on the pegs to maintain balance and grip the bike with your knees for control over uneven ground. Keep your elbows up and your eyes ahead, scanning the path for obstacles. 

How can I improve my cornering skills in motocross?

To master the turn, choose your line and adjust speed well before entering the corner to give yourself control. Stay slightly forward with your elbows up and chest low to maintain stability and traction. Next, place your weight on the outside footpeg to improve grip and balance. Keep your inside foot out for better positioning and release the rear brake before entering the corner, applying the throttle gradually to avoid loss of traction. Remember to always focus on where you want to go, not directly in front of you.

How do I choose the right motocross bike for beginners?

If you’re new to dirt biking, start with a bike that’s not too powerful—something between 125cc and 250cc is ideal for beginners. Consider the type of riding you plan to do. A dual-sport bike is a versatile choice for general trail riding, allowing you to ride on both roads and off-road trails. If you plan on racing, a motocross-specific bike might be better, but be prepared for more maintenance and higher costs.

Bike weight and seat height are also important. Make sure you can comfortably touch the ground with your feet while sitting on the bike. Finally, think about the bike’s suspension and handling. As a beginner, focus on stability and control rather than raw speed.