www.easternacu.org
the home of the Eastern Centre ACU
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So you want to start racing?.....
The first thing to do before starting in motorcycle sport is to visit an event and determine whether this is really what you want to do. This may seem obvious to most of us, but sadly, as those of us who are organisers of the sport know only too well, there are many people who have watched it on the television and decide that they would like to emulate those on the box. Indeed, it is not unknown for these people to turn up at their first event fully equipped with new machine, new riding gear etc., but completely unaware of what is, or may be, required of them.
There is absolutely no substitute for attending several meetings of the discipline you are interested in, or many disciplines if you haven’t made your mind up what discipline you want to participate in. For example, you may want to ride in trials or road racing or any of the disciplines in between, i.e. enduro, motocross or grass track. There are also some other disciplines which may be a little more unknown that may interest you more. Overall though, whatever you wish to do, get out and have a look a a typical event.
Whilst at the event, ask questions of the riders, organisers and officials regarding what is required to compete but, of course, do not intrude when they are busy, or in the case of a rider, when they are ‘psyched’ up waiting for the start of a race or about to enter a section. Most riders and organisers will be only too willing to help as we all like to welcome newcomers into our sport.
Here in the Eastern Centre, we specialise mainly in the off-road disciplines although we do have the Snetterton race circuit within our borders. Unfortunately, there are currently no active road racing clubs in the centre and most clubs specialise in Motocross, Enduro, Trials and/or Grass Track. In fact many clubs are multi-disciplinary. The likelihood also exists that Supermoto may be added to the disciplines run by centre clubs at some time in the future.
Before being able to enter an ACU organised event, it will be necessary to belong to an ACU affiliated club. For a list of clubs affiliated via the Eastern Centre ACU please check here.
Joining a Club
Created on Thursday, 24 December 2009 11:02 | | 
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Before being able to take part in competitive events, it is normally necessary to become a member of a club affiliated either to the local centre, in this instance the Eastern Centre, or to what is called a non-territorial club where the club is affiliated directly to through the ACU.
Here in the Eastern Centre, the vast majority of clubs are affiliated via the Eastern Centre and as such, organise events which, in the main, become available for members of other Centre clubs to enter.
Here in the Eastern Centre, the vast majority of clubs are affiliated via the Eastern Centre and as such, organise events which, in the main, become available for members of other Centre clubs to enter.
Riding Gear
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After your bike, the second most important thing you will need is the right clothing. This varies as to which dicipline you fancy taking part in. Whatever you're going to do, there are essentials you must have.
Starting Trials
Created on Thursday, 24 December 2009 11:10 | | | | Hits: 544
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What is trials?
Essentially, trials are a test of control and balance of a motorcycle over natural terrain and hazards. The event is made up of a number of sections of varying length and severity and may include steep hills, fallen trees, mud, ditches, streams or other natural obstacles.
Starting Motocross
Created on Thursday, 24 December 2009 11:08 | | | | Hits: 678
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What is motocross?
Motocross, formerly known as Scrambling (and still known as scrambling by the general public and the ‘old hands’) is an off-road sport which should not be confused with Supercross or its close relative Stadium Cross. These generally take place over a purpose built, normally temporary, course within a stadium type complex. Motocross circuits are, in general, erected on natural land with some enhancements in the way of jumps etc.
Starting Grass Track
Created on Thursday, 24 December 2009 11:06 | | | | Hits: 889
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What is track racing?
Tradionally known as grass track, this discipline is now often called Track racing, Still a popular form of racing with a loyal following both of riders and spectators.
Races consist of up to 12 solo riders or 6 sidecars and are run over an essentially oval track, normally a field or similar venue. There is a very strong resemblance to Speedway as can be seen in both the track layout and the type of machine.
Starting Enduro
Created on Thursday, 24 December 2009 11:03 | | | | Hits: 801
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What is Enduro?
An enduro is a long distance timed event. Although bikes are ridden at speed an enduro is not technically a speed event as there is no element of racing included in the discipline. The courses laid out for enduros range from ‘short’ courses of about a mile up to 20 miles and can involve laps of 50 miles. Riders are expected to complete a certain number of laps dependent upon their class/ability. Enduros arguably provide the greatest number of hours in the saddle per event of any motorcycle sporting discipline.