ATVMX 101

New to ATVMX Racing? Do you need some extra help when it comes to figuring out what to do at your first race? Well you have come to the right spot, because this page is designed to help answer questions and break down what to do at your first race!

Are you hesitant? Don’t be! ATVMX offers classes for anyone from age 4-104 and any skill level.

Sign-Up Process:

The first thing you should do is decide what class you will run. The national classes can be viewed by clicking HERE. This page will inform you of all the classes available, what color number plate to run, and if it is a production class or not. Please note that number plates are required for back-up scoring.

You should base your class selection on your age and ability. Age classification is based on age as of January 1st for youth riders, and the day of the event for amateur racers. If you must transfer classes, your points will not transfer. When picking a skill level class, please be objective. “C” is truly a novice class, while “A” is considered the last step before becoming pro. It is important to choose the right class based on your skill level to ensure the best competitive racing will take place. Also, please note that per AMA rules, you are not allowed to move down a competition level once you have competed in a higher level. More information on rider classification can be found HERE.

At a few select rounds, pre-registration may be available. Pre-registration is never mandatory, but we recommend that you pre-register when it’s offered. Not only will it make things easier for you, but it also gets you to the fun quicker. After you complete the registration form you will receive an email confirmation with an attached PDF. Please print out this receipt and bring it to Rider Registration once you arrive at the track.

Whether you pre-registered or not, you will still need to visit Rider Registration before racing. Majority of the time you will be registering at the track with a paper registration form, so please bring your AMA card and a proper identification.

Ken Hill

AMA Membership:

You will also need to have a current AMA membership in order to compete. The AMA is our official sanctioning body and all racers must be members of the association. AMA memberships can be purchased by clicking HERE or you can buy a one-day pass at the event for $20. If you buy the one-day pass, but decide to race another race, you can credit the $20 toward your full-year membership by calling the AMA and speaking to their membership department.

Transponders:

Renting:

A racer only needs one transponder no matter how many classes the racer is in. Transponders can not be shared between racers. Each time your transponder passes over the finish line, the scoring software will know exactly who you are, what position you are in, and what your lap time is.

Each transponder requires the racer to leave $130 for a cash transaction. When the transponder is returned at the end of racing you will receive $100 back. If you use a credit card, your card will be charged $40 up front. If you do not return the transponder at the end of the event you will then be charged an additional $100.** all credit card transactions must be completed at this link before coming to the eScore trailer for pickup!!** The rental transponder must be returned at the event. eScore will be open at the same time as registration starts each day of signup for transponders to be rented. We will close the lap times kiosk and windows 1 hour after racing each day. If you want your lap times or wish to return you transponder please do so within these times.

Purchasing:

eScore will have a limited number of transponders available for purchase at the event for $125 cash and $135 credit. We rarely run out of transponders for sale but it is possible. All transponders received from eScore will expire one year from the day they are activated. At this time the transponder can be reactivated by connecting the transponder to a computer with Internet access using the MYLAPS website. eScore can also do a reactivation at the track. Transponders can also be purchased on the MYLAPS website.

Transponders cannot be shared between racers. Each time your transponder passes over the finish line, the scoring software will know exactly who you are, what position you are in and your lap times. You only need one transponder no matter how many classes the you are racing.

Tech Inspection:

After you have properly attached your transponder you can go ahead to Tech Inspection. Here the AMA official will check for the following during the basic safety inspection:

  • Transponder is properly working
  • Active kill switch and tether cord
  • Number plates are in the proper position (front, rear and side fenders) and are approved colors
  • Quad must fit through spreader bar (50 inches wide)

Note: Rules for the AMA sound test will be properly posted and everyone is responsible to make sure their machine can pass the test. If an issue arises a sound test may be completed by the amateur referee.

Ken Hill

Pre-Race Quad Prep:

No matter if your quad is a 2020 or a 1997, model you will need to make sure to properly prep it for your race.

  • No matter what brand or type of tires you choose, just make sure to check that they are properly inflated at a tire pressure of 3 psi in the front tires and 4-5 psi for the rear tires.
  • An intermediate tire compound is suggested.
    • It is also best to have a new set of tires if possible.
    • While you are checking your tires, make sure your castle nut is tight too!
    • Check your brake pads. It also wouldn’t hurt to bleed your brakes.
    • Double check that all nuts and bolts are properly placed and tight.
    • Fill your gas tank up, in addition to bringing an extra gas can that is full.
Ken Hill

Pre-Race Body Prep:

ATV racing is among the most physically demanding sports, and with that being said there are a few extra steps you can take to ensure that your body is ready for the race.

  • Make sure to hydrate! You will need to drink plenty of water a few days prior to the race. Also, on race day make sure to hydrate before your race even if you’re not thirsty.
  • The day before the race is a good time to eat a lot of carbs! It is equally important that you eat before your race even if you are nervous!
  • Seat time is the easiest way to get in shape for racing, but if your seat time is limited, running and biking can also help you cross train!

Parking: 

It is recommended that you arrive at least an hour and a half before your practice starts. You will first stop and pay your gate fee, which varies in price throughout the entire weekend. This is also a good time to ask where Rider Registration and Tech Inspection are located.

Campers are permitted at no extra charge, with the exception of Loretta Lynn’s where normal campground fees apply. You may stay Thursday, Friday or Saturday night, or all three nights! Please note that hookups are not available at most events except at Loretta Lynn’s.

Once you have parked, introduce yourself to your neighbors and let them know that you are new to ATVMX Racing! The ATVMX Racin’ Nation is super friendly and willing to lend a hand if needed, so feel free to ask for advice.

Practice: 

Practice is offered the Friday before each race weekend for an additional fee. This practice is not mandatory, but offers a great opportunity to familiarize yourself with a new track if you’ve never been there.

A short, three-lap practice will be offered Saturday morning for each class. If you register for three classes, you will be permitted to take part in three different practices.

Riders meeting will take place right before practice starts. This meeting is extremely important and will include race details, such as the race structure and a description of the course layout.

Ken Hill

The Race: 

Race orders are posted for each race ahead of time at Rider Registration. To determine what moto you will be, please view the pre-determined race orders HERE. You will race twice for each class, with your moto finishes being merged into an overall finish position.

The first moto will take place on Saturday and the second moto on Sunday. If your class has more than 20 registered riders, a last chance qualifier will take place. The full qualifying and race procedure is explained in the Amateur Rules under section “F” HERE.

First moto gate picks will be determined by random computer draw, and second moto will be determined by the first moto/qualifier finishing position. Once you are called up to the start gate, please walk your machine to your chosen gate. You are allowed to prep the gate as you would like, but not allowed to cross the gate to trackside.

  • The Start Procedure is as follows:
    • 2 Card will be held for 10 seconds
    • 1 Card will be held for 10 seconds
    • 1 Card will be turned sideways
    • Gate will drop between 2 and 5 seconds

Motos will be 5 Laps for Pro Sport, “A” and College classes; 4 Laps for all other classes, weather permitting. On completion of your first lap you will see a green flag which signifies the race will continue until the checkered flag. You will also see a white flag when there is one lap remaining.

Post-Race: 

Go ahead and hydrate again while changing out of your gear and loading up your quad. After you are done loading everything up, the results will be posted on the Posting Board located at Rider Registration. There will be a “trophy line” marked informing you of what places will receive a trophy. If you placed in a high enough position, you can pick up your award at Rider Registration. Make sure to return your clean transponder when you go! You must return your transponder in order to receive your $100 deposit back.

Ken Hill

Gear Check List: 

Below is a list of recommended items to bring. Please note the following MANDATORY items:

  • Helmet (Mandatory)
  • Long sleeve jersey (Mandatory)
  • Pants (Mandatory)
  • Boots the cover the ankle (Mandatory)
  • Chest Protector (Strongly Recommended)
  • Gloves
  • Socks
  • Kneepads/Braces
  • Kidney belt
  • Neck Brace
  • Goggles

Accessory Check List: 

  • Toolbox
  • Gas Can (Full)
  • Water/Sports Drinks
  • Food
  • Cooler with Ice
  • First Aid Kit
  • Pop-up Tent
  • Chairs
  • Umbrella
  • Pre-Registration Form (If Applicable)
  • Directions to race venue
  • AMA Card
  • Cash/Credit Card
  • Identification
  • Cell Phone

Two more things to bring with you – a good attitude and a competitive spirit! No matter how you finish, no matter how many laps you make, just competing in an ATVMX race is an accomplishment. Have fun, don’t quit (unless you have to), and enjoy your time at the races with your family. Whether you know it or not, you will be creating life-long memories you will cherish forever.

For any other questions you may have please email [email protected] or call the main office at (304) 284-0101 between the hours of 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. EST. We are happy to help and look forward to seeing you at the races!