Honda CRF150 Racing Tips

The Honda CRF 150 is a small-scale MX motorbike used for off-road racing. For motocross racers, the CRF 150 is often used as a starting bike for beginners. The small size and sensitive maneuvering allow younger riders to control the bike without sacrificing a large amount of horsepower and speed. Honda started producing the model in 2003, using its earlier CRF 450R and CRF 250R as inspiration.

  1. Racing Rules

    • Most major competitions involving the Honda CRF 150 abide by the AMA-sanctioned super mini provisions. These are rules that are specially established for racers between ages 12 and 16. When entering a competition, riders must obtain two to three identification numbers, which must be placed on the biker's uniform and the back of the bike. The numbers must be written in black and white.

      Bikers can be disqualified for arguing with referees and officials, unsportsmanlike conduct towards other riders, drug or alcohol use before or during a race, and using improperly modified bikes for competition. While racing, bikers are required to pay attention to the flag-bearing officials who will notify riders when to start and when to proceed with caution on the track.

    Practice Tips

    • The Honda CRF 150 caters to the size and skill level of a younger rider. Practice is essential to mastering the smaller vehicle and ultimately moving on to a larger-scale motorbike. Before tackling any racetrack, a biker should walk the track and take mental notes on the condition of the course. No matter how many times a course has been used, weather shifts can create new racing challenges. By going through turns and noting pits and divots, riders can develop a strategy.

      At the beginning of a practice session practice starting the vehicle. Once a comfortable starting gear is established ride through the course at half-speed. Each rotation through the course should be done at a higher speed, slowly preparing both bike and driver for the eventual race speed.

    Riding Tips

    • Race position is usually decided by a pre-competition lottery. Once at the gate, the riders should use his foot to stamp down the dirt directly in front of the bike. The rider also should cover any wheel tracks in his lane with dirt to avoid stalling at the beginning of the race. He then should shift into gear and await the starting signal. Once the signal is given, the rider accelerates onto the course.

      Early in the race, riders should avoid other riders who are drastically accelerating into turns. They will cause crashes and tangles early on, and it is best to let the inexperienced riders weed themselves out at the beginning of a race. The CRF 150 has an advanced suspension system that will aid greatly in the absorption of impact caused by bumps and ditches. Conserving energy throughout the race, saving the highest speeds for the end, is a good strategy.