1. Keeping Your Head Safe
Even though it's done on a bike, motocross is still a very physical sport. Just about every part of your body is working to control and steer the bike, and your whole body is susceptible to injury if you wreck or fall. Head and neck injuries are some of the most serious injuries in motocross because of the risk of brain damage, spinal cord damage, or even paralysis. Take steps to prevent head trauma in motocross by always wearing a helmet and riding smart.
2. Strap on a Helmet
A motocross helmet should be a regular part of your riding gear and you should never hit the track without one. Motocross helmets protect your head from flying debris when you ride and from the impact of an unexpected fall. Helmets also safeguard your hearing by covering your ears. Choose a helmet with a shape that conforms to the shape of your head so it won't interfere with your peripheral vision. The strap should be adjustable so you can fit it snugly to your head without it moving around, and the inside should be lined or padded to cushion your head.
3. Cover Your Eyes
Protective goggles and face shields can help prevent head trauma around your eyes and face. Attach a face shield to your helmet that wraps all the way around the helmet so your eyes are protected from any angle. Wear goggles that fit snugly around your eyes with an elastic strap for the back of your head so the goggles can be easily adjusted without any gaps around your head.
4. Check Your Neck
Remember neck protection when you're choosing your motocross gear. Protecting against neck injuries can prevent pulled muscles and spine or cervical cord damage. Some motocross helmets are shaped to extend down to cover your neck in case of a fall. If yours doesn't cover your neck, add an attachment to the bottom of your helmet that will cover the area below your jaw all the way around your head.
5. Ride Safe
Preventing head trauma starts with simply riding safely in motocross. Keep your head up when you ride so you can see around you and stay aware of the positions of the other riders on the track. Make yourself familiar with the course before you ride so you know about any dangerous turns or angles along the track. Always keep your bike in good working condition, and never ride without a helmet. Riding smart is your best defense against head trauma and motocross injury.
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