How can I chill out and let me sons learn to ride really fast motorcycles?

Question

I raced motocross from the time I was old enough to walk until I was about 30 years old. I was really good at it, expert class, if you will. I have three sons and I want them to ride and race like I did, but I KNOW how it hurts and just how bad you can be hurt riding and racing and I also know it takes courage and a parent who isn't fearful for their child's life to allow them to practice and race.

Quite frankly, I am scared to death to turn my sons loose on a full blown race bike. We're talking about little 65cc motocross bikes that'll do 0 to 60 in < 5 seconds. I want them to experience the rush of racing, but ol'e Daddy here is just plain afraid to let them go.

HELP!!!!!!!! I am desperate to let them live, but I am afraid as I know how bad they "could" be hurt.

I am not pushing them into it. I have a dirtbike and they want to ride like I do. The problem is me letting them. I can see broken bones in their future and having broken both of my legs, my left ankle, losing my left kneecap and having it replaced, crushing my chest, splitting my head open, breaking both of my hands, my wrists and having steel rods in my legs and pins in the rest of my body, I am seriously concerned for their saftey. BUT, even with those injuries and fixes, I would not trade a moment of my memories of riding, racing and in general raising hell to NOT be pasted back together. It was more fun than you can possibly understand without having done it. And they have all the safety equipment and motorcycles. I just won't let them get on the KX65 or the CR85. I force them to ride the PW80 and the XR100. I'm going to have to let go, but I am afraid to and knowing the pain, almost feel irresponsible for even bringing these bikes into their lives, though they love'm.

Answer 1

I am also a parent and long-time motorcyclist, with my last 17-year old at home. It's tough to decide where that line is between freedom and safety, however motorcycling, especially MX and off-road motorcycling can be a safe and rewarding experience for them that will help teach them respect, courage and responsibility.

The first thing to teach them, as with any sport - is safety. Proper gear including leathers, chest & shoulder protectors, good MX helmet, goggles, boots, gloves, etc... Next teach them about the potential hazards - broken bones, dehydration, sprains or even death if it's not done properly.

Also coach them well, using positive reinforcement for good performance. If you think they will listen better to someone else other than their parent, then hire a coach. And most of all, watch them carefully and listen. If they are only doing this to impress you, then make it clear to them that you're impressed with them no matter what they choose to do - whether it's motorcycling or basket-weaving...

As with any sport - MX, soccer, little league or even track, there are always risks. Many millions of kids have successfully participated in these things and it's built their confidence and self-esteem, and once in a while a child unfortunately is injured. What's the alternative? We can't keep them in a box forever and by protecting them too much, they may be alive but won't truly be living. I know you'll make the best decision for them...

Answer 2

If you deny them this they will probably do what most people do, as soon as they are old enough they go out and buy a 150bhp street bike and blast around with zero experience but 100% invincibilty complex.

At least if you start them young they can work up to bigger bikes in steps. And by the time they get on something really fast and dangerous they will have plenty of experience yet will have had enough small accidents to realise just how serious and painfull a big crash can be so hopefully have a bit more sense than most riders.

That said, racing motorcross bikes is bound to cause a few injuries. As you know, most pro riders are pinned together with more metal than the bionic man. I guess as long as your sons really want to do it and it's not just you pushing them into it or them doing it for your sake let them try it. You might find after the first crash they get scared and give it up anyway.

Answer 3

I think moto-Cross is an excellent alternative to hanging out with the wrong crowd and getting hurt. You can get hurt in moto, yet, the odds are you'll be ok, maybe a broken bone or two; since youir experienced you know they need armor, chest plates, legs ect; you know the drill; so, unless you want to be the hypocrite I suggest you teach them what you know and have fun; when they crash, and they will, they will learn their limitations with the experience they have.
Have fun.

Answer 4

Maybe if your first focus on all the safety apsects of riding (helmets, proper gear, etc) before you turn them loose, they will start out with the right habits. It is a risky sport -- no doubt about it, but it can be taught safely.

Answer 5

It's in their blood that came from you. Do they want to race super bikes? Would there be any stopping a younger you?

Let 'em go and pray for their safety... That's all you can do.

Answer 6

Have you tried asking your parents how they managed it?

I feel for you! Letting go is hard enough, let alone at 0>60!!

Xanax is wonderful stuff, but only as a last ditch remedy!
(disclaimer: consult your doctor before taking)

Answer 7

get them some old fourstrokes to play on and then worry about the racing later

Answer 8

Whatever is meant to be will be. Stop being afraid. You're doing more harm to them than good, by controlling their recreation time.

Answer 9

Let them decide what they want to do. Don't force them to bike if they are not into it.

Answer 10

I think it's natural. Don't try to do away with your fatherly love and concern. You did'nt get killed does'nt mean your kids cannot get into trouble.