JUNE 13–BUILDING YOUR OWN BACKYARD TRACK

We have sought out New York’s Mike Basher and have asked him how to create the perfect backyard track. While Mike is father to Michael (Associate Editor) and John (Editorial Assistant), both of whom work for MXA, father Mike sure knows how to create the perfect motocross track to learn on. In fact, all the credit should be given to Mr. Basher for helping his sons learn how to twist the throttle. Read up to learn how you can cut your lap times and have a total blast with your friends.ÿÿÿ

By Father Mike Basher

“Summer is here, the grass is back, so I think I’ll build myself a track”

Who has not closed their eyes and envisioned a “National” track in their own back yard?
OK, open your eyes, because it’s probably not going to happen. However, if you have a fairly large area (I wouldn’t go much smaller than 50′ by 75′), you could put in a small practice track. The length or area of the track is not as important as the quality and quantity of the fun and training it can provide.

Recipe for a back yard track:
A large open grassy area, the larger the better, but almost any place will work.
1: lawn mower for making the path in the grassy areas.
* Large quantities of tolerant neighbors. (neighbors are optional based on location)
1:VERY tolerant spouse.
* Several eager riders.
* Jumps are optional

Allow the grass to grow extra long, about 6-8 inches. Add the second ingredient (lawn mower) and proceed to slowly and carefully cut the shape of the desired track layout. Keep in mind that if the track is small and you plan to ride 125s and 250s on it, the turns should be more open than if you are going to ride 50s. Make a second pass next to the first one to make the track wide enough for two bikes to pass each other. Invite the neighbors (optional) to a cookout, as it is extremely difficult for them to complain while their mouths are full of free food. At that point, sprinkle the track liberally with the eager riders, and after about 15 laps, stop all the riders and have them ride in the reverse direction.

Enjoy!

Note: On an all grass track with no jumps, it is possible to ride the backyard track in either direction, clock-wise or counterclockwise. It is amazing to discover how different a turn can look and act when it is approached from a different direction. Also, by not having jumps, you save the money you would have spent on a bulldozer and don’t do any permanent damage to your yard. Also, you have a tendency to actually develop different riding skills because the focus is now on speed through the corners and a sharper sense of balance at those speeds. Have fun!