2024 U.S. Dirt Bike Events

The best way to keep your hydration pack bladder clean and free from mold is by emptying it after every use and only drinking water from it. Now for most we don't like the taste of water, or other things come up and we forget to empty the bladder (this is me). In this guide I will explain how I clean my hydration pack bladder which helps to prevent mold and discoloration.


Step 1
Fill hydration pack bladder with warm/hot water and 1-2 tablespoons of bleach (or baking soda). Shake this mixture around to allow bleach to fully mix.

Step 2
Pinch bite valve with your fingers until water/bleach mixture fills tube.

Step 3
Let full bladder and water/bleach mixture sit for 20-30 minutes.

Step 4
Wash bladder with warm water ensuring all bleach mixture is completely gone. I always give mine the smell test. Also don't forget to wash out tube and bite valve.

Step 5
Once bladder is completely bleach free drain water and hang to dry.

Once again cleaning your hydration pack bladder after every use or even just emptying it will help keep mold from growing. If you have a buddy that never cleans his hydration pack bladder make sure you share this guide with them.

Whether you're spending your weekends racing for 2 hours or play riding all weekend one thing you can't avoid is the smell of your helmet. After doing some research I have found many ways to clean a helmet from soaking it in a 5 gallon bucket to putting the liner in the washing machine. In my opinion your helmet is one of most important safety gear and can also put a dent in your wallet, so let's get to taking care of it like the delicate expensive item it is.

1. Remove liner, cheek pads, "If Possible" and face shield "If Present".

2. If your helmet has a removable liner then take fill a small bucket or your sink with warm water and soap of your choice. I personally use shampoo because its genital on your helmet and smells good. I would stay away from dish soap or anything you wouldn't use on your body due to their harshness. You can also use products specifically designed for helmet cleaning found HERE.

3. Use your hands to massage cheek pads and liner like the agitating cycle in your washing machine. After a few minutes of scrubbing your helmet liners allow them to sit and soak for at least 10 min and repeat the process.

4. After all the dirt, oil, and sweat build up is removed then wash out all remaining soap with cold water to keep the bubbles to a minimum.

5. Once you're positive all soap is rinsed out allow your helmet to air dry on a towel in from of a fan. If you're in a hurry then the wife's hair dryer will help speed up the process, but I don't suggest putting liner in your dryer due to the amount of heat.

6. To keep your helmet fresh in-between cleanings fa-breeze or Helmet Fresh if your looking for a product designed for a helmet.

If your in the market for a dirt bike you can ride on the street then a dual sport motorcycle is what your looking for. Below is a comparison chart for all 2015 street legal dirt bikes for sale. 

Bike	KTM- 350 EXC	KTM 500 EXC	Husqvarna 350 S	Husqvarna FE 501 S	Yahama WR-250 R	Honda CRF 250L	Beta 430 RS	Beta 500 RS
Stroke	4-Stroke	4-Stroke	4-Stroke	4-Stroke	4-Stroke	4-Stroke	4-Stroke	4-Stroke
Displacement	349.7 cm³	510.4 cm³	349.7 cm³	510.4 cm³	?	?	431 cc	478cc
Cooling	Liquid	Liquid	Liquid	Liquid	Liquid	Liquid	Liquid	Liquid
Kick Starter
Electric Starter
Suspension	WP	WP	WP	WP	?	?	Sachs	Sachs
Ground Clearance	13.5"	13.5"	13.5"	13.5"	11.8"	10"	12.6”	12.6”
Seat Height	38.18"	38.18"	38.18"	38.18"	36.6"	34.7"	36.6”	36.6”
Tank Capacity	2.25 Gal	2.25 Gal	2.51 Gal	2.38 Gal	2.0 Gal	2.0 Gal	2 Gal	2 Gal
Weight	236 lbs Dry	245 lbs Dry	240 lbs Dry	250 lbs Dry	295 lbs Wet	320 lbs Wet	246 lbs Dry	244 lbs. Dry
Price	$9,999	$10,199	$7,599	$7,799	$6,690	$4,995	$9699	$9799

Remember the easiest way to help support usdualsports is by clicking This Link to Amazon before every purchase and we get a small cut to pay website fees, server fees and the best part is it won't cost you a dime more.

With the growing popularity in dual sport riding the increase for a true dual sport helmet has also risen. Most riders wear either an off-road helmet or a full faced road helmet. You will find out real quick that this choice works great if you stay on the trail or on the road. The down fall is an off-road helmet is loud on the road and a full face is hot on the trail. Here is a list of the top selling dual sport helmets along with my likes and dislikes.

1. GMAX GM11D Dual Sport Helmet (Pictured) - $83.95 This is a great entry level priced dual sport helmet with a removable visor if you prefer to wear goggles during a ride. While road riding drag is minimal while wind noise is noticeable but not to loud. Find out what others think. "Link Here"

2. Fly Racing Trekker Dual Sport Helmet - $125.95 This is the dual sport helmet I use the most. Lens is easy to operate with one hand and goggles can be worn with lens installed. With 16 vents there is plenty of cooing while on the trail. One dislike is how fast it will fog up when visor is down. Find out what others think. "Link Here"

3. AFX FX-39 Dual Sport Helmet - $101.75 Another good priced entry level helmet. A few down falls are visor is in your sight line when raised, and is not quickly removed for goggles. If you ride more road then off-road this is a good priced helmet. Find out what others think "Link Here"

4. MSR M13 Xpedition Dual Sport Helmet - $118.96 This helmet allows you to remove wind screen for use of goggles. With only 9 air ports it could use more ventilation. Find out what others think "Link Here"

5. Arai XD-4 Explore Helmet Dual Sport Helmet - $656.95 (Pictured) If you looking for a helmet that gets 5-Star ratings this is your helmet. Yes the cost is expensive but its the quietest, lightest, and best fitting helmet on the market. If you do long rides or just really enjoy nice helmets save your pennies this helmet is worth it. Find out what others think. "Link Here"

6. LS2 MX453 Dual Sport Helmet - $169.95 I have mixed feeling about this helmet. It fits well and is quiet. The down fall I have found is in certain lighting conditions there is some distortion in the lens which can be distracting. If its a cloudy day I pick this helmet over the Fly due to its fit. Find out what others think. "Link Here"

7. Shoei Hornet DS Helmet - $408.79 Another top of the line helmet for comfort, low noise and light weight. If you don't have the extra $200 for an Arai then this is your next best choice and you won't be disappointed. It has all the features of lower priced helmets only better quality. Find out what others think. "Link Here"

8. AGV AX-8 Dual Sport Helmet- $293.93 I have not had the chance to try out this helmet it is new to the U.S. market. They receive great reviews and have all the top features you should expect at the price. Find out what others think. "Link Here"

9. Icon Variant Carbon Dual Sport Helmet - $520.00 Another great helmet that keeps you cool and has low wind noise. It also features fog free lens along with scratch resistant. The carbon fiber shell helps keep it light weight. Personally I would spend the little extra and pick the Shoei or Arai. Find out what others think. "Link Here"

10. Speed and Strength Lunatic Fringe Dual-Sport Helmet - 197.95 (Pictured) Yet another helmet I have not tried out myself. It offers the same features as most DS helmets. The one aspect that sets is apart from others is the graphics. Find out what others think. "Link Here"

A cold drink of water is key when your dirt bike riding, mounting bike riding, or hiking on a warm day. There is nothing worse than grabbing the bite valve of your hydration pack and getting a mouth full of warm water. Some can choke it down but most end up spitting it out which waste precious water. One way to fix this issue is by purchasing a Hydration Pack Tube Cover for about $7 on Amazon. I'm on the cheap side so I choose to just bite the bite valve and blow the water back into the bladder. Keep in mind on a race or fast pace ride you don't always have the time to do this.

It seems every dual sport I attend there is always one riders that forgets its a dual sport, or is just "That Guy." Whether it's yelling move, riding in someones grass, or on one wheel going down a main road we have all seen it. The actions of us riders at these events can make it harder or easier for club's to put on events. Here are a few etiquette mishaps I have seen, and ways we can fix it to make it easier for clubs to continue to hold dual sport events on other peoples property or just make the ride a little more fun.

1. Driving In Yards
I see this one a lot on dual sports. These land owners are nice enough to allow us to ride on their property, and in most if not all cases they don't get paid its all risk on their part.  When exiting the property down a gravel drive is when you see guys riding in the yard. Yes in most cases they don't care about their yard, but if they do or if you make their neighbor mad the club might not have the opprunity to use that property next year.

2. Flying Down Gravel Drives
Keeping it slow on gravel drives is always best. It keeps the dust down, and gravel in place. In most cases the land owner has money, time and equipment in their drive. The last thing we want them to have to do is drag their drive after an event. Also shooting gravel with your lawn mower takes out windows. "Keep it slow when not on a trail."

3. The Guy Yelling Move
There is always one guy who is fast which we all respect, but yelling move or honking your horn like your in New York traffic only makes the guy in front of you want to block you more. Most riders know your back there so a simple horn honk, or rev of the motor is enough. Also keep in mind were not going to move over until there is a good spot to pull over "Its Not A Race." Same goes for the slow rider when possible allow faster riders to pass odds are you will catch them at some point.

4. Riding Crazy On Public Roads
This one is a big one to the general public most people don't like dirt bikes on the roads, so lets not give them any more reason to call the cops or complain to their neighbors. When your on public roads keep it slow stay on both tires "unless a kid wants to see you pop it up" and wave to people you pass. Also keep in mind on Sunday there is a lot of older drivers going to church early in the morning, so stay on your side granny will run your a** over.

5. Help Fellow Riders
Once again Dual Sport's are not a race, so if you see a fellow rider stuck, having trouble, or have a hard crash at least get a thumbs up from them. Most riders at these events are good about helping out, but there is always room for improvement when it come to helping each other out.

These are just a few etiquette issues I see when on Dual Sport rides, for the most part 99.8% of riders are very polite, willing to help out, and know its not a race until someone passes you. Just keep in mind the land owners are donating their land for clubs to use, and treating it with respect will keep these events going year after year. If you have any more items to add to this list contact me at mark@usdualsports.com and I will get them added.

Finding the correct dirt bike or motocross bike for you is important. A dirt bike that is to big can get you hurt and one that is to small you will out grow. This guide is a way to help you find one that fits your skill, wants, and budget.

1. Finding Your Budget:
First thing you need to do is find out how much you have to spend on a bike this will help you decide to buy new or used. Keep in mind most new big bikes are between $6,000 to $10,000. Most 2-3 year old bikes are about half that.

2. 2-Stroke vs 4-Stroke
Now that you know if your buying new or used the next thing to look at is 2-Stroke or a 4-Stroke? The argument can go on forever so I will keep it simple and let you decide and research on your own. If you need some help check out our guide 2-Stroke VS 4-Stroke

3. What size is best for your:
Now that you have done step 1 and 2 you have narrowed it down to about lets say 16 different bikes. If your looking to race, trial ride, or dual sport and your a grown man I personally would go with the following. 2-Stroke anything in the 250-300 range. 4-Stroke 350-500 range bigger if your doing lost of road riding and very little trail.

4. Picking A Brand:
When picking a brand I tend to say stick with the name brands KTM, Yahama, Honda, Beta, Kawasaki, Husquvarna, and even GasGas. The reason I say this is they are easier to get parts for, and at least one of your buddies knows how to work on these brands.

5. Find The Bike
Now that you have narrowed your search down to just a few bikes its time to start looking online or going to dealerships. If you choose to buy used and use Craigslist then make sure you read our article on Buying A Dirt Bike On Craigslist If there are any question contact me at mark@usdualsports.com  If you want to add or edit this article to help out your fellow riders please contact me also.

There are a few options on where to buy a used dirt bike from going to a dealership to Craigslist. When you go to a dealership you know their reputation is held on them selling a good product. When it comes to buying online people can change their profile name and hide behind their computer so their reputation doesn't mean as much. With that being said here is a guide to help you buy a quality dirt bike online, and help keep you from getting burned like some do.

The arrangement will go on forever which is better 2-Stroke or 4-Stroke. I'm personally a 4-Stroke guy but that's because of my calm slow riding style. This guide is to point out the advantages and disadvantages of both from a semi neutral perspective. Keep in mind it comes down to personal preference in the end. Do your homework and test ride both if your on the fence.

2-Stroke
In general a 2-Stroke is a peppy bike that is more fun to ride but can be more difficult to ride for a long time in tight conditions. For me personally I feel like a 2-Stroke always wants to come out from under me.

2-Stroke Advantages

• Cost Less Then Same Size 4-Stroke
• Cost Less to Rebuild Motor
• Weigh Less
• Quicker Acceleration
• Sound Travels Less

Choosing the perfect motocross gear bag that holds all your gear, and meets your needs is hard to find at a good price. In the past I have found that gear bag with wheels are better then those you have to carry. Another feature I want my gear bag to have is a separate boot compartment. With that being said I will let you make up your own mind. Here is the top selling dirt bike gear bags and make sure you check out the Top Selling Motocross Boots Guide.


Top Selling Motocross Gear Bag

1. Fox Racing Podium 180 Imperial Gearbag - $89.95 The Fox Podium 180 gear bag is the top selling bag due to its price. Its a perfect size to hold all your gear along with a few extras.
2. Troy Lee Designs SE Wheeled Gear Bag (Pictured) - $189.99 Troy Lee gear bag is a great bag that features wheels and a separate compartment for boots. It has a large pocket for your gear along with other smaller compartments for items like tear offs.
3. Thor Motocross Transit Wheelie Bag - $199.95 This bag is has a large storage area with removable dividers. The main difference in this bag from others is its design looks.
4. Fly Racing Roller Grande Bag - $113.35 One feature this bag offers that others do not is the unfolding mud mat that gives you a place to stand while gearing up. Nothing worse then standing on the wet ground.
5. Ogio Rig 9800 Gear Bag - $190.95 Ogio products are very well made products. This bag is a wheeled bag that offers a feature called wide mouth LID opening.
6. Fox Racing Podium Marz Gear Bag - $149.95 If your looking for a flashing non black gear bag this is the choice for you. It doesn't offer wheels or compartment for your boots.
7. AXO Black Weekender Gear Bag - $29.99 This is the simplest gear bag on the list and the least expensive. This gear bag would be the perfect choice for a kids gear that isn't as heavy and might not get used as much.
8. O'Neal Track Wheelie Bag Toxic - $92.77 At under $100 this is a good choice for a wheeled bag with 2 boot compartments. It also offers 2 smaller side pockets.
9. Ogio Dozer Gear Bag - $74.99 Smaller bag that is perfect for most of your gear. If your the rider that doesn't like their boots in your gear bag then you might look closer at this one.
10. BILT Gear Bag - $59.99 Even though this bag isn't wheeled it is priced right. It offers a main large storage area along with boot and tool pockets.

Bags Over $100 Compared 

	Troy Lee SE	Thor Transit	Fly Roller Grande	Ogio Rig 9800	Fox Podium Marz
Dimensions	33 x 18 x15 inches	12 x 9 x 6 inches	34 x 17 x 6 inches	16 x 34 x 17 inches	25 x 18 x 6 inches
Weight	10 pounds	13.6 pounds	11.8 pounds	14 pounds	5.2 pounds
Average Review	Read Reviews	None	Read Reviews	Read Reviews	Read Reviews
Boot Pocket
Wheeled
Price	$189.99	$199.95	$113.35	$192.72	$149.95
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