Motocross is certainly one of the most adored motor sports in France. And for good reason ! No traffic rules, no pedestrians, a dirt track, this practice promises us total freedom and adrenaline. However, driving an off-road motorcycle imposes certain conditions. It is particularly important to ride on a circuit designed for this purpose. Find in this article all the information you need to know to practice this intense sport.
Difference between motocross and enduro
While professionals can tell these two models apart at a glance, beginners cannot. However, knowing the difference between a cross and an enduro is essential. Along with trials, these machines are both part of the off-road motorcycle family. Which explains their similarities.
However, you can easily recognize an enduro by its numerous equipment that motocross lacks. It has a headlight, indicators, two rear lights and a license plate. Thanks to these accessories, this motorcycle receives approval for road use, unlike a motocross bike. The practice of MX is only authorized in a secure environment, respecting the criteria established by law.
Conditions for doing motocross
Motocross is a sport in its own right. In particular, it is necessary to have the techniques and meet the conditions that govern this practice.
Insurance
Whether you ride on a private or public track, civil liability insurance is the minimum required for motocross. This formula covers material and bodily damage caused to third parties. Obviously, you are free to subscribe to other guarantees, which will naturally influence the price of your purchase. To insure an off-road motorcycle, companies offer a wide range of packages to adapt to all the needs of riders. We cite in particular anti-theft and fire guarantees or those which cover the equipment and the owner.
Licenses
If you plan to ride on a circuit, make sure you have a license. This is the first document that clubs request before joining a new member. This is a certificate to be purchased from UFOLEP and the FFM.
- UFOLEP offers licenses in a variable price range, depending on levels and participation in future competitions. In addition, the structure also issues authorization for children aged 6 to 10, with parental agreement.
- At the FFM, everything will depend on your needs. The organization provides several categories of licenses such as those for young people and children. There is also a sports or competition license for drivers who wish to participate in events. To train, you must purchase training/tourism/event licenses to ride on motorcycle club circuits for recreational use.
Good to know : the price of licenses is variable, and directly includes insurance. It should also be noted that these authorizations are not obligatory if you practice MX on private land, and that you are sure to never ride on a circuit.
Permit
Just like the license, the permit is not obligatory to practice unapproved motocross on a closed circuit. On the other hand, the CASM or certificate of aptitude for motorcycling sport is required from the age of 12. It allows the young rider to ride freely on terrain or a closed circuit or to participate in a competition.
For their part, this certification is essential for all-terrain two-wheelers such as Enduro or Trial. This, even if the practice is limited on dirt roads or for a connecting journey. In other words, if you do not have a permit, you will have to transport the machine on a trailer to reach the circuit. In the event of non-compliance with this legislation, the pilot may face a heavy fine.
Places for motocross: what does the law say?
Motocross must be practiced in a legal and secure environment. In other words, on tracks made of earth, sand or stones with more or less significant differences in height and obstacles. But, be careful, we are not talking about just any dirt road. The number of spots on which motocross is authorized is fewer and the sites are increasingly regulated. The land must have authorization, at the risk of incurring a fine of 1,500 euros. To which is added a fine and a return to the pound if you drive without a license and without a registration document.
Those who are lucky enough to have a large enough area in their garden can easily practice at home. In this case, you will need to make sure that your neighbors have nothing against the engine noise and that they are not likely to file a complaint. Likewise, you will be responsible for any damage caused to your property.
On the other hand, if you want to ride elsewhere or start on circuits dedicated to the discipline, we suggest you join a motorcycle club. Some have different routes depending on the level and beginners therefore have plenty of room there. There are also several clubs spread across many French departments.
Likewise, when purchasing your license, the FFM and UFOLEP sites directly provide the list of motocross circuits affiliated with the organizations, as well as all the information concerning the competitions.
Mandatory equipment
The legislation does not only concern the slopes, but also the safety of the rider. Although this practice is sensational, it is still risky. The pilot must therefore have at least the essential equipment to cover his head and his entire body. There airbag jacket is of course not obligatory but strongly recommended if you have the possibility. Here is the list of accessories required for riding on a circuit:
- A full-face helmet compliant with CE standards;
- A mask;
- Leather gloves;
- Boots ;
- Back and chest protection;
- A suit or clothing made of durable material.
How to choose your motorcycle insurance for motocross?
As you can imagine, you will have specific needs if you do cross country, and even more so if you compete. In the latter situation, you will be forced to choose specific insurance, because traditional insurance does not cover competition.
In fact, unapproved motocross on roads and paths is not covered. On the other hand, be aware that if you have a license with a club, you will have third-party insurance when you use your motorcycle with your club. Outside, you won’t be covered either. It is therefore strongly recommended to select additional insurance.
However, you will still not be covered in the event of bodily injury. To do this, you must select an option called the driver’s body guarantee. Thus, you will receive compensation in the event of injury, disability or more serious, in the event of death. In this situation, it is your family (at least the members listed on the contract) who will receive the compensation. Whatever the case, this will make it possible to compensate for a loss of income, pay medical expenses or renovate your home.
