Am I too old to ride motocross?

Question

I am in my 30's and was wondering if I am too old to ride motocross... I have been riding as of late and have realized at my age that although I felt somewhat in shape I really am not.

My question is can I ride motocross safely at my age... with the chances of injury (obviously as you get older bones become more brittle) along with is there an age limit to compete professionally. Just curious

Thanks

Answer 1

You cannot compete against the pro riders today, they are just too young and in shape and d**n good at what they do, but there are classes for older riders to compete in.  There is nothing to stop you from riding for pleasure, I just turned 47 and still ride every weekend.  I just bought a beautiful 84 XR250 and plan to ride in some local enduros in the vintage class.

Answer 2

No, you're not too old. They have classes  for over 40 and senior classes as well, I've seen guys in their 50's racing....not quite as fast as the 17 yr. old's lol

Answer 3

HA!!!  Was King Leonidas too old to fight the Persians at 60 years old?

Answer 4

I think your physical condition matters more then your age...anyone at any age can get hurt riding motocross, if you are healthy,go for it.

As for competing, I have no clue...

Answer 5

You're not too old to ride motocross.  The AMA sanctions MX racing for many age groups, including 40 and over.  I know people over 50 who ride and compete.

If you are in your 30's, your bones should be in good shape.   If you have a history of bone problems, consult your doctor.  One thing to consider besides your body is "can I afford to be out of work due to an injury?"  This prevents many people from racing or riding motocross.

If you choose to ride, you can ride motocross safely by wearing the right protective gear and using good riding practices.  I'd suggest you attend a motocross racing school, even if you are just going to practice ride.  

Motocross is an inherently dangerous sport, regardless of age, skill and protective clothing.  There are other forms of dirt motorcycle riding, such as trail riding or hare scrambles, that are less risky and just as much fun.   And, competitive riding is often where people ride beyond their abilities or "over their head", and crash.  This could be you, or the guy that hits you.

Hope that helps.

Answer 6

You won't be a pro, most of those guys hit their prime around age 20-25, but anybody in decent physical shape can have fun riding moto... The 45+ vet classes in my district turn out lots of guys who throw down good lap times.

Answer 7

I don't think you are too old to do it.  Granted, I know nothing about motocross, but if you can ride the bike and do it safely, I don't see any harm in it. You might as well do what you like!

:-)

Answer 8

I am so glad you asked.My brother is 57 yrs young and races competitively. He has beat out younger guys many times.Yes he wrecks sometimes but he loves it and he does a great job.It also got his colesterol back where it should be real fast.He finishes around 3rd or 4th each time.Smears the young guys!!!I am so proud of him.

Answer 9

yes

Answer 10

h**l no. i am 34 years old, and i win races every weekend, against 16 and 18 year olders. Age is in your head man. My dad is in his late 50's, and he still races every weekend. he told me, that if he has to go out, this is what he would like to be doing, when he goes out. I race a yamaha 400, and i have won more races this year, than I ever have, and i have been racing since i was 15. i am stronger than any of my competition, and they all know it. That does not hurt, when i am going around that first turn, and grab the hole shot. I have been racing every weekend, for almost 20 years, and i have never been seriously injured.

Answer 11

Dude, I am 34 years old, and I am just now starting to race... I have been riding my whole life though.

To race pro though, you are kind of old, but take a look at John Dowd. He is a pro supercross/motocross racer that has since retired, but still manages to race some selected events, but always races local motocross back east. Thing is John  Dowd is 41 years old.

there is also Chuck Minert. Chuck races every weekend out in california at the REM races at Glen Helen. Chuck is 75 years old......

there are different classes and ability ranges for everyone to enjoy racing motocross.

you could race in the over 30 classes. they have classes ranging from beginner to pro in this area.

the only bad thing about racing is trying to pry yourself out of bed the next day, well, at least thats myproblem!!!!!

Answer 12

No my son has friends who ride that are in their 60's

Answer 13

Your never too old to ride!! I'll ride til the day I die!!