From the stands, EnduroCross racing is like nothing else. The intense, back-and-forth flow of the racers and their methodical, almost calculated approach to the obstacles makes for the best form of two-wheeled racing, and fans can watch every move. But down on the track, EnduroCross is unforgiving. Each completed lap brings a wave of relief at having made it around the course followed immediately by the grim realization that you have to do it again. But for the racers who actually see the checkered flag, the sense of achievement greatly outweighs the fluid loss.
If there is one thing that the top off-road pros have in common, it is that they have everything in tune. From the setup of the bike to the preparation of their bodies and even to the techniques that they use, all successful racers have a well-wired program. What follows is a general list of some of the first things you need to know if you plan to up your off-road prowess and be more like the stars of EnduroCross:
BUILD A PROGRAM
If you know you're going to be racing EnduroCross, don't wait until two weeks before to get in shape. Outline a training program months in advance, and stick to it like glue. Not only will you improve your odds of walking away with a trophy, but you'll also decrease the chance of not being able to get out of bed the day after the race. Strength training is fine, but what you'll need most is a solid program of cardiovascular sprints-anything to get the blood flowing and the heart pounding in a hurry. Rowing, running, swimming and pedaling are solid workouts, but make sure that you're serious about it or you'll hate life when you get to the race!
PROTECT YOUR STEED
Nasty obstacles are to off-road as Astroturf is to a football game, and as such you need to take every measure possible to guard your bike against damage. A sturdy set of bark busters or hand shields will not only ensure that your digits and levers stay in one piece, but they can also give you something to grab to pick the bike up when you crash. A rear disc brake guard and a plastic chain guide can help guard against damage from jagged rocks. Similarly, a sturdy skid plate will keep the frame rails and cases protected while giving your bike a smooth bottom to drag across logs (trust us, it happens). Even radiator guards will help keep a vital part of your machine intact throughout the course of the race. Companies like Fastway/Pro Moto Billet (www.promotobillet.com) and Moose Racing (www.mooseracing.com) make goodies for nearly every bike on the market that are built to withstand the wrath of EnduroCross.
WATCH THE PROS
Want to do well at EnduroCross? Watch the pros, dummy! These experts are the top off-road riders on earth for a reason, and keeping an eye on them can drastically improve your own results. Things like line selection, technique and even bike setup can all be gleaned from just paying attention. Open your eyes when the top riders hit the track, because if there is anyone you want to emulate, it's them! Plus, there is a 99 percent chance you can walk right up and talk to these guys earlier in the day in the pits. Try that at a supercross!
CHOOSE THE RIGHT RUBBER
A few years ago, many of the top EnduroCross pros chose to run 18-inch trials rear tires for improved traction in the rocks. However, at the end of the 2007 season these trials-style tires were banned from the series. The reason? They simply get too much traction! The recent move to non-trials tires has made the EnduroCross courses tougher because you lose so much traction with a knobby, which doesn't stick like trials rubber. There's a reason people are using trials tires for rocky trail rides and nasty off-road terrain: They're that good! But they're illegal in EnduroCross.
BREATHE RIGHT
"You must never quit breathing! Don't hold your breath at all, and always try to breathe through a section, even if it is technical. Big, deep breaths will keep you from getting too tired. You should almost be yawning!" -KTM EnduroCross star Taddy Blazusiak
GO SLOW TO GO FAST
Want to be faster off-road? Slow down! Although seemingly counterintuitive, toning your pace down a few notches can pay off big-time in the long run. If you watch the top riders, you will notice that they actually slow down before big obstacles so they can attack across them. Why? Because riding through a tough section in control will take less time and generally less energy. Try to be as calculated, calm and precise as possible, and you'll notice a significant drop in your trail times compared to when you ride overly aggressive or without fear.
BE CREATIVE
"With EnduroCross, you have to be creative. If a corner is too tight to do a standard turn, you can look for a place to do a foot plant and get around it that way. The best way to do this is to find a rock or something that is higher-so that you are putting your foot up on something-which gives you more leverage on the bike. Then, use the fork rebound to get the front end around and initiate the direction of the turn." -2008 fourth-place EnduroCross finisher Geoff Aaron