Motocross is the most popular form of amateur motorcycle racing in the United States, and with classes for machines from 50cc to more than 450cc, and riders age 4 to 50-plus, it’s a sport for the whole family.

Motocross races are run over natural- and man-made terrain courses with hills, jumps and tight turns, typically with two races — or motos — in each class. Recognized as one of the most strenuous sports in the world, motocross is also one of the most fun. It’s also relatively easy to get started racing motocross if you do your homework.

Amateur motocross racers compete in a wide range of motocross championship and premier events, with the best amateurs in the country compete for a spot in the prestigious AMA Amateur National Motocross Championship, with the best of the best winning the AMA Motocross Horizon Award, presented to the amateur racer who has demonstrated the most promise for a successful professional career.

Many professional motocrossers in the United States today has passed through the AMA amateur motocross competition to reach the pro ranks.

Motocross also takes place in sports stadiums and arenas in the form of Supercross and Arenacross. The scaled-down versions of motocross feature shorter, more technical temporary tracks and often attract large crowds.

Beginning in 2019, the AMA Supercross Futures Series, an AMA National Championship, serves as the official advancement platform to Monster Energy AMA Supercross, an FIM World Championship.