FIRST-TIME RACER?

The National Hare & Hound Series offers something for everyone, from the new beginner to the desert pro. Signing up is easy!

1. The Basics - You'll of course want the standard protective gear, helmet, boots, etc. The more protection the better - the desert can be rough. But you already knew that. As for bike setup, you'll probably want a desert tank. Stock tanks may make it, but on long sandy loops, you don't want to be watching the race from an empty bike. At the very least, if you run a stock tank, carry some spare gas. For bike protection, hand guards and a skid plate will get you started. A tool bag with some basic tools and nuts and bolts can also preserve your race. And just like your riding gear, the more bike protection - the better. With regards to gearing, that is personal preference. Races can have a 2 mile an hour rock canyon followed by a 5th gear pinned valley. Get a couple races under your belt to get a feel for gearing, but in general, you'll want to gear slightly taller than stock for off-road.

Also, don't forget water! If you break down, you will be picked up, but it could be a while. Carry water with you. It can literally save your life.

2. Entering a Race - To enter, you will need to be an AMA Member. You can sign up at the race, and keep the receipt for future races until you get your card. Next, you'll need to sign up for a class. Classes are broken down by skill level, engine size, and age. If you are new to offroad riding, or this is your first race, you may want to consider beginner or novice for your class. You may also select an age bracket, i.e., if you are over 30, you can choose to ride the Veteran class. (You do not have to, but the option is there.) You also enter a class based on engine-size. The classes for 2-wheels are: 86-200cc, 201cc-250cc, 251cc-Open, and for ATVs, 100cc - Open (16 year old minimum age requirement). Click here for all classes in the National Hare & Hound Series.

Each race will have a sign-up, which will have all the information you will need on class breakdowns. We recommend for your first race getting to sign-ups the day before, and speaking with the hosting club about classes, so you can get all the info you need, and get signed up in the right class.

3. Minor Participant Info - Riders under 18 must have BOTH parents at sign ups OR an AMA annual release and one parent (or a guardian with a notarized statement) at sign ups. Get the minor release form here.

4. Out of State Info - California has some special requirements for out of state racers. If your race bike is registered in your home state, OR if it is plated, then you just show up and race. If your bike is not registered in your home state, and is not plated, you will need a California Out-of-State Offroad Permit. These can be purchased at the race, several locations around the state, and are good for 1 year. Click here for a list of permit vendors.

5. What to expect - An epic time. A lot of work goes into each race, by volunteers that do their best to make sure all riders and skill levels will find the event fun and challenging. When you see the checkered flag, you will know you have really accomplished something!

Now, get out and race! What are you waiting for?!