Although people think of motocross as something for the kids, dedicated riders continue into their 40s, 50s and older. Riding motocross is a sport for youth - not just youth in age, but youth in mind and spirit! However, as we move through the years, there are some precautions that should be taken to ensure a safer ride.

No Longer Immortal

Two important things happen between the ages of 20 and 40: we lose the feeling of immortality and we start to develop bones that don't heal as easily as they use too. Somewhere along the way, we suddenly realize we aren't invincible and we have to get up for work on Monday. We realize that having a rock slam against our skull isn't a good thing. We become aware of just how debilitating a broken ankle or wrist can be and just how easily this can happen if we try to ride beyond our skill level.

In addition, we really are less invincible than we used to be. We may not be tottering around with osteoporosis, but our aging bodies are more fragile than they once were. Not only do our bones break, but also it takes us longer to recover than we used to.

Protecting Our Bodies

Riders at any age should be wearing good quality motocross clothing to protect themselves against injury. Boots, helmets, chest protectors and the whole gamut of protective equipment is the most important thing you can buy.

Motocross clothing becomes increasingly important as we get older. We may ride a little saner than we used to, but we are more prone to injury when we crash. An accident that might be inconvenient to a teenager can be crippling to an older rider.

You may not ride quite as crazily as you used to, but that doesn't mean the sport is any safer. Even if you just do trail riding, motocross clothing is an absolute necessity. There are rocks and other obstacles out on the desert and forest trails too and you need full protection.

Regain Your Confidence

Older riders often find they lose their edge. They start riding more cautiously and may think the fun is going out of the sport. This is even true for riders who have taken a few years off and are trying to return to a sport just as they remember it but find their skills are gone.

Good motocross clothing helps you feel safe and that helps restore your faith in your riding ability. The more confident you are, the more fun you are going to have. You are still going to have the occasional crash, but with the right equipment you will get up again after.

We'll leave you with one last thought. You aren't 20 years old so don't judge yourself by that standard. To spice up your fun find a race club through a local AMA chapter and race someone your age. If your use to competition, the fun will come back at any age. You are there to have fun so in the end you get out there, stay safe, and have fun!