Ride long enough and expect to crash, a logical explanation to why it seems as though at least one rider hits the deck during any given Motocross race.

Most get-offs result in bumps, bruises and sprains but unfortunately a few end in a trip to the hospital. Bigger injuries require professional attention and most tracks have emergency medical personnel on-site in the event of a serious trauma but at the very least you can reasonably expect a well-trained staff to help stabilize a patient prior to ambulance arrival.

Good news for those requiring care but that doesn't mean attending a race or open practice without a personal first aid kit. Yes, tracks will certainly have their own first aid kits but you still have a responsibility for self-care. A well-stocked first aid kit handles multiple minor injuries that either enables you back on the track or limits damage until professional help arrives. Common minor injuries associated with racing and riding dirt bikes includes:

  • Scrapes and cuts
  • Bruises
  • Ligament and muscle sprains
  • Jammed fingers and other appendages

Therefore, when deciding on a Motocross first aid kit don't settle for a run-of-the-mill version easily found at drug stores or other large general merchandise retailers. A high-quality first aid kit needs to feature enough stock to handle the common injuries associated with riding dirt bikes and racing Motocross. Choose a first aid kit that includes the following:

  • Sterile dressings
  • Bandages - variety
  • Gauze
  • Moleskins for blisters
  • Tape
  • Pain relievers
  • Latex or nitrile gloves
  • Antibiotic ointment
  • Scissors

The track likely has the amenities to handle major injuries like broken bones, ligament tears and concussions so you probably don't need to invest in a medical type pack often favored by medical personnel. However, these packs also contain all the items in smaller packs, and more, therefore following the old adage, better safe than sorry, makes sense.

In either case, well-stocked first aid kits take up little room and should have a place in your gear bag. You will open it sooner or later but unless you ride hard and regularly compete you have a good chance of letting some items expire because of non-use. So, keep an eye on the expiration dates of creams, ointments and pain killers and replace as necessary.