FAQs
If you are looking to find out how to get started in motorcycle racing, you will have many questions. Please read our FAQs below and if you still need more please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Our parent’s guide and our estimator provide answers to many common queries:
What is the minimum age my child can start mini bike racing in the UK?
This is a common question asked by parents looking to get their child started. Please download our Parent’s Guide which contains a wealth of useful information and contacts for each different class and discipline currently available.
What licence or registration does my child (under 16) need to race a minimoto or pit bike in a UK championship?
Currently to visit a training or test centre such as M4 Karting your child does not need a licence for practice sessions. To compete in timed events and races you will first need to join an official ACU affiliated club (for example FAB-Racing or Nora Motorsport). Once you are a member you will be able to apply for an ACU race licence.
What is the total cost to get started in minimoto, mini bike or pit bike racing?
Costs to start racing can vary dramatically depending on how serious you are and which route you want to take. To help you navigate the options we’ve created an online tool that provides examples of the costs involved. On our page you will also find example costs for the essential safety gear plus links to places to buy.
What specific safety equipment is mandatory for a child to race a mini bike under ACU rules?
A motorcycle helmet is the first line of safety equipment. These are often provided at professionally run training centres however as soon as you know that you’ll be continuing we recommend buying your own – a good fit is essential for the helmet to be safe. Always buy from a reputable motorcycle shop, marketplace websites may have unsafe, fake brands on offer at very cheap prices. The helmet must have a genuine Gold ACU approved UK sticker.
One piece leathers or race suits specifically for minimoto are acceptable for junior riders. Your child will also need back protector, either built in or worn over the top if designed to do so.
Leather race boots are also mandatory. Choose boots with good ankle protection. The race suit can go inside or over the top of the boot but there must not be a gap when the rider is on the motorcycle.
When on track all riders must wear an identification disc around their neck (known as a dog tag). The disc needs to be inscribed with the rider’s full name and date of birth. Long ago riders used to include their blood group, this is no longer applicable and will not be used by medical staff.
Find out more on our useful page: How much does motorcycle racing cost?
Are there specific beginner classes or ‘academy days’ for children who have never raced a mini bike before in the UK?
Yes! there are some excellent opportunities to try out mini bikes and minimotos. Please download our Parent’s Guide for a location map and contact information.
What are the different junior racing classes, e.g., Bambino, MiniGP?
Please download our Parent’s Guide for an overview of the current clubs and race series in the UK. This information is often quite dynamic over the off-season as regulations evolve. We will update the guide as new information becomes available.
Which UK racetracks host junior mini bike or minimoto events?
Minimoto (pocket bike) and smaller pit bikes can be run on indoor or outdoor kart tracks. Mini bike racing requires a Pro-Kart outdoor track or even full size circuits designed for motorcycle racing, for example the Woodlands Circuit at Cadwell Park. Please download our Parent’s Guide for a location map and contact information.
Where can I find affordable second-hand mini bikes or pit bikes suitable for a junior beginner?
First, please get in touch with us as we often have used or ex-demo machines available, we would also be happy to pass on any second-hand opportunities as they come along. Next, download our Parent’s Guide for links to UK based minimoto centres who may be able to put you in touch with families that are selling their tried and tested machine. The last port of call may be all the usual online marketplaces, however the majority of bikes on offer will be Chinese machines which are notoriously poor quality and may not last very long.