Different Dirt, Different Gear: What You Need For Changing Motocross Conditions

Riding and racing motocross means you'll be mixing it up various conditions, from different track surfaces through to unpredictable weather. 

There are particular parts and gear many motocross riders use for each condition they ride in, and we've made a list of recommendations for the most popular conditions you're bound to experience.

Sand: 
Soft and sandy conditions are some of the toughest you'll ever have to ride on a dirt bike. There are a few specific items that will make your life easier out on the motocross track.

Tyres: When it comes to sandy off-road tracks, a rear 'paddle' tyre is a must. The paddle-like tread propels you through the sand, making the ride that much easier. 

Goggles: Goggle selection and preparation is key when ripping motos in the sand. We'd recommend setting yourself up with a pair of roll-offs, which will give you the most amount of clear vision in what will be heavy roost.

Handguards: Handguards are optional and really come down to personal preference, however we recommend fitting a set for the sandy conditions. They'll keep your hands and controls just that bit cleaner when you're getting sprayed with sand.

Clay:
Clay surfaces offer some of the best track conditions, especially when they get ripped and become loamy chocolate cake! You can get away with most of your usual gear and parts, but again, we have some recommendations in the tyre and goggle department.

Tyres: An intermediate tyre will always be the tyre of choice for clay tracks, as they work well in both the softer, rutted sections, as well as the hard-packed and slick sections of the circuit. You'll rarely find a motocross racer using a hard tyre both front and rear - they will almost always use an intermediate on clay tracks.

Goggles: Choosing between roll-offs and tear-offs is a personal choice, although looking at a light-sensitive lens is recommended for clay tracks, especially if there are ruts forming. Light-sensitive lenses, like the Oakley Prizm, block harsh rays yet lift light from the shadows, such as in ruts.

Mud: 
Some riders love the mud, others hate it. Either way, if you're racing motocross, the chances are good you'll experience a mud-race or two. You can read our full guide to mud racing here: 

Hot weather: 
Australia is notorious for its hot summers, and while some of us would rather keep the bike stored away in the shed, many of us can't help ourselves and just need to ride! 

Motocross gear: Choosing a set of riding gear during the summer, we only recommend going with a vented option. Most gear companies offer a highly or fully ventilated jersey, and these are an absolute must. 

Cold weather:
Motocross is a winter sport, so you're going to experience some cold days at the track where you probably won't be able to feel your fingertips. 

Gloves: A selection of brands actually offer a winter glove that is weather and wind resistant, providing added warmth when you're riding at high speeds in low temperatures. We highly-recommended adding a pair of winter gloves to your gear bag, as they'll come in handy during early morning practice sessions and make the riding experience that much better!

Undergarments: Wearing compression tights or even thermals underneath your riding gear will provide you with that bit of extra warmth and comfort while riding and racing in cold conditions, and they're easy to remove as well - so when things do heat up, you can simply slip them off.