- 1). Scout the land you want to build the track on and consider the natural terrain. Hills and valleys are built-in features as are slopes, ledges, banks, gaps and the rising and falling waves of undulated land. Determine how much of the land will need to be cleared and design around objects like large trees and rocks that are too costly to remove.
- 2). Respect the environmental concerns of neighbors who might not find the dust and noise of dirt biking as thrilling as you do. Discuss your plans with those in earshot and visit your local courthouse for information about noise ordinances and required building permits. Speak with your insurance agent about additional liability coverage, if needed. Decide how you will secure the land to prevent uninvited riding enthusiasts from kicking up dust when you aren't present.
- 3). Mark the track roughly with pegs and test it out with dirt bikes and four wheelers. Good natural terrain will flow from one section of land to another. Avoid features that feel unnatural such as tight turns but plan to include straight stretches of track necessary for gaining speed. Ride and fine tune the track until you are satisfied with its path.
- 4). Decide what obstacles to include on the track, starting with what is already there. Hills and slopes can be enhanced to serve as drop-offs and step ups, while berms (narrow ledges) can be built up. Obstacles will need to be built on flat land and will require dirt. Buying dirt and having it trucked in is the most expensive option; you can also dig up your own dirt by creating a ditch or gap to jump over or a dam to keep your track watered. Gage the skill levels of those who will be riding and include obstacles that will challenge and improve their skills. Ski jumps and tabletop jumps are suitable for tracks that are beginner-friendly.
- 5). Determine the best surface for your track. Clay soil is a hard-pack, low-maintenance surface good for berms and ramps, but is not always preferable for riding on as softer loam soil. Plan for a track that is slightly angled instead of perfectly level. The slight angle will not be noticeable when riding and can prevent drainage problems.
- 6). Bring in the heavy equipment. Whether you rent and do-it-yourself or hire a contractor, a bulldozer is needed to grade, shape and move dirt. A bigger bulldozer generates more power to move more dirt and has wider blades to make a full width track with fewer cuts to the land. Unless your dirt is already moist, you will likely need a water truck to ensure tight compacting of the soil.
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