Motocross is a type of off-road racing for motorcycles enjoyed by thousands worldwide. Racers compete on specially designed bikes across closed, off-road dirt tracks in a fight to the finish, with the tracks themselves consisting of all manner of natural and artificial bumps, jumps and obstacles. The sport enjoys a wide level of popularity, with several competitions organised into sub-disciplines and engine capabilities.
Motocross, as with all motor-racing sports, requires a certain level of protective equipment to be worn at all times when competing or training. Due to the nature of the sport, motocross can be inherently dangerous, though the likelihood of suffering different types of injuries varies between different disciplines. The most common injuries, aside from broken collar bones, wrists, and ankles, are acromio vascular (shoulder) joint sprains and anterior cruciate ligament (knee) ruptures, which while not life threatening, can still be extremely painful and inconvenient. These injuries can be mitigated and protected by specially made braces and supports that mainly fall into one of two categories: preventative braces that protect against injury; and rehabilitative ones, which help injuries to heal by restricting excessive movement that may cause continued or additional harm.
Enduro
Enduro is a dirt motorcycling sport that takes competitors through their paces with a series of descents; a good set of brakes is a necessity. The competitions usually take place off-road in challenging terrain, with further obstacles put in place to push the riders to their limits.
Enduro, as with most other dirt biking sports, is undeniably hazardous. Hurtling downhill on uneven and slippery tracks at great speeds can never be risk free, although measures such as helmets and hardwearing clothing can help to soften the blow of an impact. Despite the high chance of injury, rates are relatively low and most injuries sustained tend to be relatively minor.
FMX
Freestyle Motocross or FMX is an exciting and visually impressive variation of motocross, a form of off-road motorcycle racing. In FMX, the goal is not a simply to win the race but to impress the judges with your overall riding skills. This is done by performing stunts and tricks, including jumps.
The main piece of equipment that an FMX rider has is obviously their motorcycle. In the early days of the sport, this would most likely be a modified road motorcycle but now it is likely to be a purpose-made motocross bike. The bulk of the equipment riders have is geared towards protecting their safety in what in undeniably a potentially dangerous sport.
Supermoto
Supermoto is a demanding and exhilarating track sport that began as a motorbiking hybrid but is now a fully-fledged sport. It combines the courage and control of road racing with the challenge and speed of motocross on a single circuit. Riders must prove their mettle on two distinct surfaces, as the average tarmac circuit also has an additional dirt or off-road section.
Fortunately for riders, spectators, and enthusiasts, with preparation and the appropriate attire the risks can be greatly reduced. Riders commonly wear road-racing leathers or an "armoured" jersey or jacket. Knee braces and shin guards are commonly used to provide support, along with durable boots and an excellent motocross helmet. Helmets meet strict safety standards and should also be replaced as often as necessary. Gloves also help to protect the hands from injury.
Common Motocross Knee Brace Questions
Do knee braces work for motocross?
A motocross knee brace is now often seen as part of the standard kit and are worn by amateurs and professionals alike. The CTi knee brace is manufactured from carbon fibre and designed to withstand impact damage following a crash or a fall. It is this design and material which can protect the knee joint and the knee ligaments from damage.
Do knee braces really work?
CTi’s are specifically designed to protect the knee in the event of a crash or a fall. If you’re not wearing a motocross knee brace, imagine the potential damage on your knee if you were to come off your bike. There are numerous serious knee injuries resulting from a crash including broken bones and/or ligament damage, not to mention potential superficial injuries. Ligament damage alone can take up to 9 months to recover from and lead to issues further down the line such as osteoarthritis. Long story short, it’s best to be safe from the outset.
What is the best knee brace for motocross?
You need something strong and rigid, designed to withstand impact from either a crash or a fall. A brace manufactured from carbon fibre will offer maximum protection whilst still being lightweight and giving you the flexibility you need to continue riding comfortably.
Are knee guards effective?
In addition to your motocross knee brace, you should look at a patella cup or knee guard. These are designed to fit your brace and protect your knee against any rocks or debris when riding.
CTi Motocross Athletes
Natalie Kane
Northern Ireland Dirt Bike Rider
Shaun Simpson
Champion Motocross Rider
Paul Bolton
Enduro Legend
Lyndon Poskitt
Adventurer, World Traveller, Sportsperson & Inspirational Speaker
Bolddog Team
Motorcycle Display Team
Rosie Rowett
ACU British Enduro Championship and World Enduro Championship Ladies class
Eddie Jay Wade
International Youth Motocross Rider