Dirt Biking in France

Dirt biking is an extreme sport whose popularity and official performance extends well beyond the boundaries of the United States. The sport is recognized by French state law as well as by a sport-specific regulatory organization.

  1. Identification

    • Organized dirt biking in France is largely governed by the Federation Française de Motocyclisme (French Motorcycling Federation). Although some of the technical rules may be left to the authority of the sports minister, the FFM is chiefly responsible for outlining regulations in accordance with the country's Code 131-16 for organized sports.

    Competition Requirements

    • To compete formally in dirt biking, France requires that the participant is at least 12 years old. After this age, the engine size of the bike relates to the age of the rider. You first need six years of practice on a 50cc dirt bike, and then you must obtain gold or silver handlebars to enter competition.

    Fun Facts

    • As of 2011, nearly 20 official championships are held throughout the country for motorcycling, motor-cross, super-cross and quad racing. Here are several related translations:

      Dirt Bike -- Motocross

      Handlebar -- Guidon

      Light Motorcycle/ light engine -- Cylindrée

      Rider -- Pilote

      Championship -- Championnat