The most popular form of amateur dirt bike race is the motocross race. Motorbikes from 50cc to over 450cc may join motocross races. Riders from age 4 to over 50 may join this type of motorbike race. Thus, it may be stated that the motocross race is a sport that the whole family can enjoy. The motocross race is run over natural trails, including hills, jumps and tight turns, usually with two motos (or races) per class. Every year, amateur motocrossers vie for a spot in the Amateur National Championships and Air Nautiques American Motorcyclist Association Youth at the Loretta Lynn Ranch located in Tennessee. All pro motocrossers went through the Loretta Lynn Ranch, receiving what is known as the American Motorcyclist Association Motocross Horizon Award.

Arena cross races are held indoors with trails created inside arenas. The tight indoor trails or tracks favor the rider’s fitness, finesse and technique.

Dirt-track racing is one of the most conventional types of motorcycle races. Dirt –track racing evolved from the time when riders used to compete on horse tracks in county fairs. In dirt-track racing, riders participate in four types of events: TT courses (including at least a right turn and a jump), half-mile and mile tracks and oval short-track. Every summer, the American Motorcyclist Association endorses the Dirt Track Grand Championships in Illinois. The American Motorcyclist Association also presents the Horizon award to the most promising rider.