Breaking into motorsport can be a hard challenge, whether you’re looking to do it professionally or as an amateur.
Motorcycle racing is an extremely hard discipline, but there are always ways for you to get involved, but the best way is through joining a club.
Do I need a licence to get into motorcycle racing?
You can’t get a racing licence without being a member of a racing club that’s affiliated to the Auto-Cycle Union (ACU). The good news is there are hundreds of racing clubs around the UK and they’re spread right across the country.
There’s no way around this and you will need a club official to sign your licence application, however they will normally do this as soon as you apply to join their club.
Once you’ve got a club membership you can apply for an ACU licence, arguably the most important aspect of getting into racing.
In order to get your ACU licence you will need to complete a Competitor Training Course (CTC), a classroom-based assessment, before taking to a track for your ACU Basic Rider assessment, which is the practical element of the day.
You will then be able to send an application for a road race licence with the ACU. If you wish to progress to a novice or intermediate novice licence, you will need an eyesight exam and a unique code from your racing club.
How much is an ACU licence?
An ACU licence will typically cost between £160-190. However, you will also need to join a racing club, which is usually £20-40. You are not restricted by how many motorcycle clubs you can join.
Who are True Heroes Racing?
One racing team who gives opportunities to young and talented riders is True Heroes Racing. They are the UK’s first motorcycle racing team dedicated to supporting wounded, injured and sick UK service personnel and veterans.
The True Heroes’ aim is to “engage, empower and inspire”, and you won’t meet any more inspiring riders than those who race for the team.
They have an exceptional grassroots programme that allows talented riders and veterans to get involved in a discipline they may have never thought was possible.
Read more about the True Heroes Racing team in our blog.
True Heroes racing’s grassroots programme
After launching their Grassroots Rider Programme in 2020 after passing the beneficiary ACU Race Licence Assessment, the rider took to the grid in 2021 for their first ever motorcycle race with North Gloucester Road Racing Club. Since then the grassroots programme has expanded exponentially and now includes riders such as Chris Duggan.
They encourage social inclusion and use physical training and endurance activities to help boost confidence, inspire others and aid the rehabilitation and recovery of WIS personnel and veterans.
True Heroes also work in conjunction with the Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centres; where they provide inspirational respite and holistic rehabilitation activities for military personnel undergoing recovery treatment and their families.
Fancy the thrill of the track?
Now you know about the wonderful work of True Heroes Racing, perhaps this has whet your appetite on spending a day at a track yourself?
With that in mind it’s reassuring to know that as well as brilliant bespoke motorcycle insurance deals, Bikesure can organise special cover for trackdays and other bike events from as little as £67.20, and if you’re a member of Motorsport UK it’ll be even cheaper with our exclusive discount scheme.
