Supermoto

PROS +

  • Relatively inexpensive
  • Cheap to maintain and repair
  • Good for learning bike and controls
  • Good visibility in traffic
  • Cheap track time (cart tracks)
  • Fun club racing

CONS -

  • Stock tires designed  for pavement
  • Specialized for street use

 

Today’s supermotos are a street legal combination of a sport bike and a motocross bike. Even though they look like a dirt bike, they are primarily built to be used on the street. They even have a kickstand…  But what makes a supermoto unique from a dirt bike is that the suspension is stiffer and doesn’t have as much travel. They are also lower to the ground and come equipped with performance street tires. This makes a supermoto much more suitable to handling rough roads and road hazards such as potholes. If you appreciate the durability and look of a dirt bike but plan on using this bike on the streets, the narrow frame, upright seating position and light weight make supermotos practical and maneuverable…even more so than a street bike! 

For supermoto riders interested in improving their skills, there are many supermoto racing leagues that set up courses at racetracks around the United States, and they are relatively inexpensive compared to sport bike tracks. These are relatively safe, controlled environments that are ideal for entry-level to expert riders to hone their skills.  Just remember, supermoto bikes purchased off the showroom floor aren’t sold competition-ready for supermoto tracks.  These tracks have dirt, motocross sections that aren’t meant to be ridden with street tires.  If you plan on taking your supermoto in the dirt make sure you have the proper tires and are wearing the proper PPE!

Popular Uses

COMMUTING

Supermoto are great commuter bikes. The upright sitting position makes you more visible and the dirt bike features make them handle road hazards better. The dirt bike look of these machines make them look as tough as they are!

CART TRACK RACING

Riding Supermotos at go kart tracks is very popular. It doesn’t cost much and there are many tracks around the country. 

CLUB RACING

If you want to get into racing, Supermoto racing is great. You don’t have to do much to the bike and speeds are relatively low compared to a sport bike. This is one of the best ways to race a motorcycle!