General Info
There are a few simple things you need to do to get started in District-37 desert races. We will outline the steps and costs here, and will be happy to walk you through the process when you come out to the desert.
- You must be a member of the AMA (American Motorcyclist Association). We will help you apply for AMA membership at the race. Regular membership costs $39 per year and has many benefits. For more info on AMA member benefits, visit the AMA website at www.ama-cycle.org. We suggest applying for your AMA membership at your first race because you must have a valid AMA card to race.
- You must have a spark arrestor.
- You must have a California Red or Green Sticker. Or, if you a rider from out of state, you can purchase a California Land Use Permit at the race. California Red Stickers are permitted for competition.
- District 37 Membership is required to race if you live within the District 37 boundaries. Membership is only $20-$30 per year! When you are a District-37 member, you will get a district number and will earn points based on your results in your class. Your district number for the following year will be based on your final point standings.
Other stuff you need to know:
- Riders under 18 must have a parent at sign-up or a notarized statement plus a guardian.
- Quad riders must be at least 16 years of age.
- A water system such as a Camelbak is highly recommended. If your bike breaks, you don't want to be in the desert for any length of time without water!
- For your first race, plan to get to the desert on Saturday. This will allow you plenty of time to sign up and do everything you need to do. Just look for the Viking Flag and we will help you through the process!
FAQs
What is a Grand Prix?
A Grand Prix event is a closed course event that includes both natural and graded terrain. In other words, parts of the course are run on a motocross style track and parts of the course are run on natural or desert terrain.
What is a Hare & Hound?
A Hare & Hound event is a marked course that is run over natural desert terrain. It consists of two unique loops totaling at least 60 miles. Typically, each loop is between 30 and 40 miles, with the first loop being easier than the second loop. Beginners, Super Seniors, Minis, and any One Loop riders only ride the first loop.
What is a Desert Scramble?
A Hare Scramble event is a marked course that is run over natural desert terrain. It consists of one loop of at least 30 miles that is run twice to make up a total of at least 60 miles. Beginners, Super Seniors, Minis, and any One Loop riders only ride the first loop.
What is a European Scramble?
A European Scramble event is a marked course that is run over natural desert terrain. It consists of one loop between 6 miles and sixteen miles long. All riders run the same loop over and over for the duration of the event, which lasts between 45 minutes and 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on the start. The European Scramble format is a great race to get your feet wet and see what desert racing is about!
What is an Enduro?
An Enduro event is a timed event run on a marked course over natural desert terrain. It is different from other types of events because the winner is determined by both speed & time keeping. Starts are in groups of four. Very challenging and fun!
What is a typical start like?
A typical start for all but an enduro event is a dead engine banner start. Riders are on the start line with their engines off, the banner drops, and off they go. Of coarse, a well tuned bike is essential for a good start because more than one kick will leave you behind!
Can I practice the course?
With the exception of Grand Prix events, no. Any rider that practices the course will be disqualified. You may practice the start or "bomb" run as indicated on the rider instructions at the race.
How is the course marked?
Desert events are marked with day-glo ribbon, arrows, and cards. The ribbon marks the course. The arrows mark direction changes and indicate speed changes. Arrows pointing to either the right or left indicate direction. Arrow pointing down mean slow down. Orange day-glo cards indicate danger. Orange day-glo cards with an "X" marking indicate a road crossing.