2010 PORTER RACING HONDA CR250R

2010 PORTER RACING HONDA CR250R

2000 HONDA CR125R

2000 HONDA CR125R

2004 HONDA CR250R

2004 HONDA CR250R

Wednesday, April 7, 2010

Carry, Tow or None of the Above

There's one thing that most motocrossers know, and that's the importance of trucks. They have the option to carry their bike in the back of their truck or tow it behind on a trailer. Most professional motocrossers have their bikes loaded in the back of a semi, along with their practice bikes, pit bikes, spare engines, parts and tires. They go from track to track in these big trucks.

But for us "normal" folk, our funds only allot us just enough for a used bike and an even more used truck. The fact of the matter is, most motocrossers outside of the professional sphere don't have immediate access to a track or trail. We have to load up our bike and gear, and take it all somewhere else. That's why trucks are so vital to motocross.

The brand of the truck isn't as important as the make-up of the truck. For example, a full-size truck with a "long-bed" (normally around 97" in length) can comfortably carry two bikes side-by-side and tons of gear, with enough room to still put the tailgate up. I prefer "long-beds," but they're not the only way to go. They're just one of a few options.

It seems like the majority of full-size trucks have the "short-bed," which is typically between 69" and 78" in length. These are the trucks you usually see with their tailgates down when carrying bikes. The shorter bed length makes them a little easier to maneuver around town and in tight areas.

Then there's the mid-size trucks. They have even smaller beds, and usually smaller engines. They're typically focused toward people wanting the utility of a truck without excessive fuel consumption attributed to V8s and diesel engines. The mid-size trucks usually have either an L4, L6 or V6 engine.

Whether you're sporting a big V8 truck or little L4 mid-size truck, the important thing is that you have a means to carry or tow your bike. Motocross is exceptionally hard when you don't have the vehicle to get your bike to where you want to ride.

Be grateful for the many years and styles of trucks that get your bike and gear where you want to go. Here's a tribute to trucks.

Thursday, April 1, 2010

Jockeys as Riders: Could it Happen?

I've often wondered if horse racing jockeys could make it in the motocross world. It seems as though they would have some advantages over the average Joe that's considering taking up racing. Jockeys are short and light-weight, having trained their selves to maintain a strict, airy weight and still function at semi-normal levels. They're accustomed to holding onto a fast-paced "thing" between their legs. The good ones have an edge about them that makes them seem bigger than they really are.

I still wonder if they would make for a good motocross racer...