Are you searching for an adrenaline-pumping motorsport that demands teamwork and mind-reading levels of coordination? Look no further than sidecar motocross racing. While it might not be as mainstream as solo motocross, sidecar racing offers a unique and exhilarating experience for both the driver and the passenger.
Take it from someone who isn’t a mind reader, but had the chance to learn the ropes of sidecar riding alongside fellow MXA rider Josh Mosiman. An incredible opportunity arose for us to tear around Glen Helen Raceway on a Grand Prix sidecar. Although a Vegas mentalist show might bring in millions, trust me, the thrill of racing a Sidecar For Bike is an unparalleled adventure. Just be warned, sidecar racing as a hobby requires a significant investment!
Sidecar motocross remains one of the most underrated motorsport disciplines globally. It’s not about individual glory or flashy tricks. Podium photos are certainly crowded, and for those who, like myself, initially gravitated to motocross for its individualistic nature, sidecar racing presents a fascinating team dynamic. In sidecar motocross, winning or losing is a shared experience, demanding perfect synchronization with your teammate.
Image alt text: MXA test riders Daryl Ecklund driving and Josh Mosiman as passenger on a sidecar motorcycle, demonstrating the crucial teamwork required for balance and control.
Truthfully, sidecar motocross wasn’t on my radar until Ralf Schmidt, the TM distributor, presented the idea to MXA. Ralf, always keen to promote TM Motorcycles in the US, knew of a Dutch TM-sponsored sidecar team competing in the FIM World Sidecar Motocross Championship. He seized the opportunity to purchase one of their TM sidecars, partnering with a California dealer to bring this unique machine to American soil. Along with the impressive 400-pound WSP sidecar rig, came seasoned TM sidecar racers Peter Beunk (passenger) and Gert Van Werven (driver) from the Netherlands.
Interestingly, Jody Weisel from MXA had prior experience racing sidecars back in the 1980s, even learning from the legendary 1981 World Sidecar Motocross Champion Ton Van Heugten. Peter and Gert were genuinely impressed by Jody’s connection to such a sidecar icon.
Image alt text: Jody Weisel in action on a Wasp sidecar during a motocross race in the 1980s, highlighting the historical context of sidecar bikes in motocross.
Ralf’s intention in bringing Peter and Gert along was clear: to provide the MXA wrecking crew with expert instruction on riding a sidecar, mirroring Ton Van Heugten’s mentorship decades earlier. Ralf couldn’t have chosen better ambassadors for sidecar racing. Peter and Gert were enthusiastic to showcase sidecar racing at Glen Helen Raceway.
Their excitement was amplified by Glen Helen’s challenging hills, a stark contrast to the typically flatter tracks of the 2020 World Sidecar Motocross Championship locations in the Netherlands, Belgium, and other European countries. Their presence proved invaluable, drastically shortening our learning curve. Without their trackside guidance and hands-on coaching, Josh and I would have undoubtedly encountered far more mishaps.
The sheer weight and raw power of a sidecar for bike on a motocross track is undeniably intimidating. The robust WSP chromoly chassis, valued at over $9000, and the potent 660cc four-stroke TM engine form the core of this machine. Based on a bored-and-stroked TM 450MX engine, this powerhouse delivers impressive performance. Considering the 400-pound dry weight of the bike and the combined rider weight of around 350 pounds, the 660cc TM engine has to propel a substantial 750 pounds around the track. This Italian-built engine churns out 72 horsepower. While that might be overwhelming for a solo bike, the emphasis on torque over peak horsepower makes it ideally suited for a sidecar.
Image alt text: Close up view of the front suspension of the sidecar for bike, showcasing the leading-link forks designed to handle the heavy weight and demanding terrain.
World Sidecar Motocross Championship regulations permit engine sizes from 500cc to 1000cc for four-strokes and 500cc to 750cc for two-strokes. There was a period where 80-horsepower two-stroke engines dominated sidecar racing. However, mirroring the evolution in solo motocross, manufacturers are now producing lighter and more powerful four-strokes that can rival the specially engineered 700cc Zabel two-stroke engines.
You might wonder, “Why not utilize a 1000cc four-stroke if allowed?” Gert and Peter explained that the sheer weight of a 1000cc engine becomes a limiting factor. Despite the incredible strength of the chromoly WSP frame, the combined weight of the relatively compact TM engine, two racers, and the chassis is already considerable. Gert Van Werven mentioned that their team starts the GP season with four identical TM-powered rigs, and by the end of the series, frame fatigue with cracks and stretching becomes evident.
Image alt text: The massive steering damper on the sidecar for bike, emphasizing the robust engineering required for stability and control in sidecar motocross.
This weight consideration is also why sidecar teams opt for leading-link forks over conventional motocross forks. Gert admitted preferring the feel of regular forks but emphasized their impracticality. Conventional telescopic forks are prone to breakage and leaks under the immense stress, leading to unsustainable maintenance costs for a 12-race Grand Prix series with a budget exceeding $100,000. This budget covers travel, race entry fees, accommodation, maintenance, and parts, excluding the $20,000 machine itself.
Sidecar motocross enjoys significant popularity in Europe, particularly in countries like the Netherlands, Belgium, and those of the former Eastern Bloc. However, similar to AMA Pro racing in the US, financial rewards are limited to only the top teams. Most Grand Prix sidecar riders and passengers balance racing with weekday jobs and rely on sponsors to bridge the financial gap. This is a sport driven by passion, not profit. Often, racers invest their own money to compete. Imagine working a full week, using vacation time for races, traveling to distant locations like Estonia or France, competing, and then rushing back to work on Monday. These racers are dedicated to the lifestyle and the close-knit family atmosphere within the sport.
Image alt text: The custom-built 660cc TM four-stroke engine of the sidecar for bike, highlighting the bespoke nature of sidecar motocross machines and their components.
Sidecars are entirely custom-built machines. While Gert’s sidecar visually resembles a TM, this is because the chassis builder custom fabricates the fittings and mounts to accommodate TM plastics and engines. When asked about the choice of TM engines, Gert cited two primary reasons. Firstly, durability: the TM 450cc four-stroke engine is over-engineered with thicker cylinder, head, and case walls compared to other brands like KTM, Honda, Yamaha, or Kawasaki. This robust construction allows engine builders to increase cylinder displacement without compromising reliability.
Secondly, the TM engine’s consistent design over the years is advantageous. Frequent engine redesigns would necessitate costly and complex modifications to the sidecar rig every few years. The TM 450MX engine has maintained consistent mounting points for the past seven years, simplifying maintenance and upgrades.
Image alt text: The WSP rolling chassis of the sidecar for bike, weighing 400 pounds, before the engine and riders are added, emphasizing the substantial base weight of these racing machines.
So, what’s it really like to race a sidecar for bike? Incredibly, it demands perfect synergy between two individuals. They are intrinsically linked. The person steering is termed the “driver,” although there’s no traditional steering wheel. The “passenger” is far from passive; they work tirelessly to maintain the sidecar’s balance and trajectory. Avoid calling the passenger the derogatory term “monkey,” as their role is crucial to the team’s success.
Image alt text: Daryl Ecklund and Josh Mosiman receiving instruction from experienced sidecar racers Peter and Gert, highlighting the steep learning curve and expert guidance required for sidecar motocross.
After a briefing on sidecar dynamics, I was determined to be the driver. Watching Gert and Peter effortlessly navigate the Glen Helen track, with Peter hanging off the sidecar to optimize weight distribution, looked daunting. Passenger seemed too dangerous. Being the boss and older, I assigned passenger duty to Josh.
However, I underestimated the passenger’s role. I assumed Josh was just along for the ride while I skillfully steered. That was far from reality. While I controlled the handlebars and throttle, the sidecar only responded to my inputs when Josh actively intervened.
Image alt text: A close-up of the sidecar cockpit, showing the driver’s controls and the passenger’s positioning area, emphasizing the intimate and collaborative workspace for the sidecar team.
As we accelerated down the starting line towards Talladega’s steep first turn, Gert’s initial advice echoed in my mind: “Just pin it!” My eyes lit up, and I grinned at Josh. I aggressively hit the throttle entering the Talladega corner, but quickly heard Josh yelling, “Slow down!” Ignoring him, I kept the throttle wide open. Despite turning the handlebars fully right, the sidecar stubbornly continued straight. We were headed straight for the edge of the 70-mph banking. At the last moment, Josh saved us by dramatically leaning off the sidecar, shifting the weight and forcing the turn. We both erupted in laughter, a mix of exhilaration and sheer terror. Thankfully, we emerged unscathed.
Image alt text: Sidecar for bike racing action shot at Glen Helen, capturing the dynamic lean and teamwork required to navigate a corner at speed.
From that moment, the crucial interdependence became crystal clear. I needed Josh, and Josh needed me to navigate the track without ending up pinned under 400 pounds of sidecar. We did hit track barriers, veer off course, and narrowly avoid rollovers numerous times. However, each mistake accelerated our learning process.
Image alt text: Leading-link forks on the sidecar for bike, highlighting the robust suspension system engineered to withstand the extreme forces of motocross racing with a sidecar.
The bike’s power was astonishing. The 660cc engine delivered serious power to the ultra-wide 140 rear tire. The handling was impressive – when Josh and I were in sync. After each lap, Peter and Gert provided valuable feedback, primarily directed at Josh. The instructions for me were a blur, but for Josh, they were constant: move faster, lean further, arm position in left turns, foot placement, exhaust burn avoidance, and crucially, stay onboard. When they cautioned Josh about falling out, I chuckled, only to be met with a stern warning: “If he falls out, you are heading for a major crash in the next corner.” My job, twisting the throttle, suddenly seemed less demanding, a fact I wisely kept to myself.
Image alt text: Driver of the sidecar for bike connected to the kill switch via an elastic cord, a crucial safety feature to immediately stop the engine if the driver becomes separated from the machine.
With each lap, our teamwork improved. Anticipating each other’s actions became paramount for staying on track. Verbal communication became essential, especially when changing lines. Jumps initially seemed daunting, especially after trackside predictions of grounded wheels. However, I decided to test those predictions, not giving Josh any forewarning.
Our first jump was a modest 5-footer, easily cleared on a PW50. But a PW50 doesn’t have three wheels, weigh 750 pounds, and tilt unpredictably. Jumping a sidecar for bike felt akin to launching a Cadillac Eldorado. In the air, any passenger misstep sent us sideways. Yet, with each jump and subsequent feedback from Gert and Peter, our aerial coordination improved.
Image alt text: Expert sidecar motocross racers Gert and Peter executing a jump, demonstrating the control and skill required to keep the sidecar level in the air.
We then set our sights on Glen Helen’s finish-line tabletop jump. Informing our Dutch mentors, they didn’t dissuade us but rather rushed to get a better vantage point. Interpreting this as either encouragement or a desire to witness potential carnage, we attacked the final corner and launched off the jump. The sidecar ascended in slow motion, then began drifting sideways. We had the height and speed for clearance, but the landing remained uncertain. We landed heavily crossed-up, yet the sidecar miraculously straightened itself. Gert and Peter were visibly impressed. We felt like sidecar heroes.
Image alt text: MXA rider transitioning from driver to passenger position on the sidecar for bike, illustrating the physical demands and different skill sets required for each role.
Feeling guilty about subjecting Josh to the passenger’s demanding role all day, I agreed to switch positions. Passenger was far more challenging than anticipated. After just the first turn, I was breathless. Two laps in, I tapped Josh, yelling I’d had enough. My legs burned, my hands cramped. I had tasted my own medicine.
Fortunately, Peter Beunk partnered with Josh, allowing him to experience sidecar racing with a seasoned professional. Their synergy was remarkable. Peter’s fluid movements enabled Josh to focus solely on speed and control. It became clear that while I was along for a wild ride, the passenger truly dictated the performance.
Image alt text: Peter Beunk expertly demonstrating passenger techniques on the sidecar for bike with Josh Mosiman driving, showcasing the finesse and athleticism of a professional sidecar passenger.
Words can hardly capture the sheer enjoyment of this sidecar experience. Riding a custom-built $20,000 machine with exhilarating power at your fingertips is an incredible adrenaline rush. Sharing this unique adventure with a good friend amplified the fun. Many thanks to Gert and Peter for their invaluable lessons and to Ralf for allowing us to test his incredible machine.
Note: The 2020 World Sidecar Motocross Championship was unfortunately canceled due to coronavirus pandemic restrictions in Europe.
