Starting out in motocross is exciting – but it’s also a time full of challenges. And guess what – many beginner riders make the same beginner motocross mistakes. These errors can slow your progress, cost you money, and even lead to injury. The good news? Most are easy to fix with the right knowledge.
In this guide, we’ll cover the top 10 beginner motocross mistakes and explain how to avoid each one. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or dreaming of pro-level riding, this list will help you ride safer, smarter, and faster.
1. Riding Without a Proper Gear
This is the #1 rookie mistake. Many beginners ride in jeans, sneakers, or low-quality helmets. This is dangerous.
Fix
Always invest in high quality motocross gear:
– Durable jersey and pants designed for off-road
– DOT or ECE-rated helmet
– MX boots with ankle protection
– Goggles, gloves, and chest protector
Read about most important protective gear for dirt bikers here
Pro tip: Your helmet is the most important piece – never buy it used.
2. Poor body position
Leaning too far back, sitting too much, or locking your elbows ruins control.
Fix
Learn the attack position:
– Look ahead, not down
– Stand up with knees slightly bent
– Elbows up and out
– Weight centered over the footpegs
Pro tip: Practice standing and shifting your weight on flat ground first. It’ll make you faster and more balanced.
3. Not using the clutch properly
Many beginners either ignore the clutch or use it too much. Both cause problems.
Fix
Use the clutch to:
– Smoothly shift gears
– Control traction in turns or tight spots
– Avoid stalling
Pro tip: Don’t “fan” the clutch (pulling it in and out constantly) unless you’re in a tight corner. Practice feathering it while riding slowly around cones or tight corners.
4. Too mutch throttle, not enough control
Whiskey throttle = bad day. New riders often twist the throttle too hard and lose control.
Fix
Be smooth, not aggressive. Ride in a lower gear while learning so you have more throttle control without scary bursts of power.
Pro tip: Try short, controlled throttle rolls instead of quick twists.
5. Skipping maintenance
Dirty filters, loose bolts, and worn tires cause crashes and breakdowns.
Fix
Get in the habit of a pre-ride checklist:
– Clean and oil your air filter
– Check chain tension
– Inspect tires and brakes
– Tighten key bolts
– Check oil and fuel levels
Pro tip: It takes only 10 minutes and can save your bike (and body).
6. Not looking ahead on the track
Riding while looking at your front tire is a common habit – and a dangerous one.
Fix
Train your eyes to look ahead – at least 2 – 3 bike lengths in front of you. It helps you anticipate bumps, ruts, jumps, and corners. Your body will follow your eyes, improving balance and control.
Pro tip: Your bike goes where your eyes go. If you stare at a rut or obstacle, you’ll likely hit it. Train yourself to always look where you want to go – not where you’re afraid to go. This simple shift can instantly improve your control and confidence.
7. Riding beyond your skill level
Trying to clear jumps or race fast lines before you’re ready can lead to serious injuries.
Fix
Ride at your own pace. Focus on technique, not speed. Stay on beginner – friendly tracks or trails until you build confidence. Save the big jumps for later.
Pro tip: Confidence isn’t built by sending it – it’s built by repetition. Ride sections you’re comfortable with over and over until they feel easy. Mastering the basics at slower speeds will make fast, aggressive riding feel natural when the time is right.
8. Wrong tyre presure
Too much pressure leads to poor traction. Too little and you risk flats or rim damage.
Fix
Stick to 12 – 14 PSI for most dirt tracks. Adjust depending on terrain (softer for mud / sand, firmer for hardpack). Always use a gauge – guessing isn’t good enough.
Pro tip: Always use a gauge – guessing isn’t good enough.
9. Improper braking technique
Grabbing the front brake too hard or relying only on the rear is a recipe for crashes.
Fix
– Use both brakes – about 70% front, 30% rear
– Squeeze the front brake smoothly
– Keep your weight back while braking
– Don’t panic and lock up the rear
Pro tip: Practice braking in open areas at different speeds to get a feel for traction.
10. Not taking breaks or hydrating
Riding takes a toll on your body. Beginners often go too hard, too long, and get exhausted.
Fix
Take short breaks between motos. Sip water before, during, and after your session. Eat light, energy rich snacks.
Pro tip: Don’t wait until you feel dizzy or tired – by then, it’s too late.
Bonus tip: Take lessons
You can watch videos all day, but nothing beats hands on coaching. A single mx riding lesson with a coach can save you months of trial and error.
Motocross is one of the most thrilling sports out there – but it’s also one of the most demanding. as well. Mistakes are part of the learning curve. What matters is that you fix them early and keep improving.