With some frequency in the world of sports, disciplines are confused due to their similarity. This happens, regardless of the experts, with enduro and motocross. Both are specialties of the motorcycling which, at first glance, seem the same.
However, as we will see, they are different. It is true that both are practiced in abrupt circuits on a motorcycle suitable for all terrains and they require a lot of skill to drive it. But each of them has its own peculiarities and characteristics. Next, we are going to explain the differences between enduro and motocross.
What is motocross?
A motocross race
As its name suggests, motocross is a motorcycling discipline that is practiced on rugged terrain, not prepared to circulate. In this sense, it is different from motorcycle racing, which takes place on asphalt circuits.
Therefore, it is not about reaching high speeds, but about move through rocky and muddy places, which requires great skill on the part of the pilot. In addition, he has to be very physically prepared.
Motocross was born in United Kingdom at the beginning of the 20th century with careers such as Scottish Six Days Trial. It soon gained popularity throughout the country and spread to the rest of Europe. Already in the fifties, the World championship, which continues to be disputed today.
What is enduro?
Participant in an enduro test
Enduro is also practiced on rugged terrain and it consists of taking a tour of them in the shortest time possible. Likewise, motorcycles are all-terrain and driving them means combining skill, speed and, above all, dexterity.
As a sporting discipline it was born in France in 1913, where the first race was held. In fact, the word enduro comes from Old French endure, Meaning "resist". We would have to wait until the sixties to see the beginnings of a european championship of this discipline, which would become worldwide in 1990.
At the same time, enduro was divided into several specialties. Among them, the so-called cross country, which is practiced in a closed circuit and with artificial obstacles such as tires or ramps. On the other hand, it is in extreme enduro, which runs through very difficult terrain, with large slopes and natural obstacles. and you also have the rally, which consists of traveling long distances on tracks and roads.
A good example of the latter is Paris-Dakar rally. However, perhaps the most famous enduro test is the so-called Six Day International, which has been celebrated precisely since 1913.
Differences between enduro and motocross
Two riders in the middle of a motocross race
We have already seen the similarities between enduro and motocross, as well as what each discipline consists of. Both are practiced on off-road motorcycles and require great skill on the part of the rider. Likewise, these are centuries-old sports that have two world championships.
As for the the pilots' clothing, is also similar in both disciplines. They must wear overalls, gloves, helmet, boots and body protection. Something similar happens with vehicle maintenance. Both enduro and motocross motorcycles have to undergo periodic checks that include suspensions, tires, brakes and chains, among other elements.
But, as we told you, enduro and motocross also present, significant differences. Let's see the most important ones.
Place where it is practiced
Jumps are inherent to motocross
The first distinction between enduro and motocross has to do with the setting in which they are practiced. The latter usually develops in closed circuit (although not always) with banked curves and different kinds of jumps. On the other hand, enduro is developed in natural scenes, along rural paths and mountains.
On the other hand, motocross competition has a uniqueness. The starting grid is formed in such a way ruler. That is, all the vehicles leave at the same time. However, enduro focuses on fighting the stopwatch by sections.
Enduro and motocross motorcycles
A Honda motocross motorcycle
Another difference between enduro and motocross affects the motorcycle with which each discipline is practiced. At first glance, they may seem the same to you, but they are not. The one used for enduro is more heavy because it is also suitable for driving on the road. That is, it is a registered vehicle and has all the elements required by the authorities to travel on public roads. Among them, battery, dashboard, lights or mirrors.
In addition, enduro motorcycles have a larger gas tank and softer suspension because they do not have to make such high jumps. In this sense, they are more resistant and versatile, while motocross ones are lighter and more powerful.
The type of tests
The enduro takes place in the middle of nature, through mountains and rural paths
The tests of each discipline also show us differences between enduro and motocross. In the latter, the competitions take place in small periods of time. Its duration ranges between twenty and forty-five minutes. During this period, the pilot has to give several laps of the circuit performing jumps and the one who crosses the goal first wins.
However, enduro racing is longer and longer lasting. The pilots have to travel longer distances through mountains and rivers and the one who does it in less time. This means that those who participate in this discipline must have a lot of physical resistance and be able to maintain concentration.
Pilot skills
A motocross rider with his mechanics
This brings us to another difference between enduro and motocross: the one referring to the skills that the riders must have. In the first of these disciplines, in addition to having the physical resistance to withstand the tests, the motorcycle driver must knowing how to overcome obstacles and maintain balance in rugged terrain.
For his part, the motocross rider must have good technique and control of the vehicle to perform jumps and acrobatics. In these races, also, speed is key. Therefore, the guide must also have good coordination and the ability to react quickly to unforeseen events.
In conclusion, we have shown you the main similarities and differences between enduro and motocross. As you have seen, they are sports engine with many similarities in terms of the elements used and their development, but each one has its own peculiarities. Dare to practice them.