Dirt biking, also referred to as motocross or supercross, is a sport allowing cyclists to race on off-road tracks. Motocross involves a great deal of physical exertion, and competitors in the field are often encouraged to take part in aerobic and anaerobic training to keep up with the demands of the sport. Dirt bikers in North Carolina can stay fit by taking advantage of the state's many tracks and trails that are open to competitors and amateurs alike.
Motocross Tracks
North Carolina is home to dozens of motocross tracks that are open to dirt bikers of all levels, ranging from beginning to expert. Tracks for advanced riders feature jumps, obstacles and hard turns. A few motocross parks, such as Creswell Motocross Park in Creswell, specifically feature kids' tracks for youth bikers. They also sometimes feature concessions and bleachers for spectators.
Trails
In addition to riding on tracks, dirt bikers in North Carolina can take advantage of the state's many outdoor ATV trails. Some trail systems, like the 35-mile Roy A. Taylor ATV Trail System in Cullowhee, charge a small fee of around $5 per day, as of 2010. Others, like the 65-mile endurance trail at Brushy Mountain Motor Sports Park, charge upward of $20 per day. Many of the dirt biking trails in the state are connected to campgrounds or parks, and are close to water, toilets and other amenities. They are often open during the day only and are closed for the winter months (usually December through March).
Regulations
Dirt bikers in North Carolina should follow the rules and regulations set out by motocross tracks or individual trail systems. Many of these organizations follow the Rider's Code of Conduct put forth by the Motocross Safety Council. Motocross athletes should examine all trails and tracks before riding at race speed, determine that they are physically able to handle all obstacles and stunts on the track, and never jump over obstacles bearing yellow warning flags.
Tours
Advanced motocross riders can take extended tours that run across the state of North Carolina. One such tour, the Gravity Slashers Freestyle Motocross Tour, began in Charlotte, North Carolina, in January 2010 and ended in Cleveland, Ohio, three months later. Motocross tours set up in an arena or civic center for a few days in each city, allowing spectators to come and cheer on freestyle motocross athletes.
Groups
Different cities in North Carolina host motocross groups for like-minded dirt bikers looking to ride together. Motocross groups also allow individual dirt bikers to race, plan rides, examine track conditions and go off-roading in a group. Groups are open to amateur and advanced riders.
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