Start gate

The start gate is a row of hinged metal barriers at the start of a motocross or supercross race. Riders line up with their front wheels just behind the gates; when the starter releases them, the gates fall backwards towards the riders and the race begins.

Gate pick, usually decided by qualifying, matters a lot, as riders want the best line to the first corner. Good technique: sit forward, select second gear on most bigger bikes, hold steady revs, watch the gate itself rather than the starter, and release the clutch smoothly as it moves. Many bikes use a holeshot device that locks the fork down for better launch.

Prepare the ground in front of your gate if rules allow, removing loose dirt and stones so the rear tyre finds grip.