• Home
  • FAQ's
  • What is the minimum age for participation?

Minimum Age for Participation - 12 Years Old (all riders under 16 must be pre approved.  Email info@penguinracing.com)

There has been a movement as of late that has brought several younger riders into the sport of roadracing. Although we are excited about the influx of younger riders into our sport, there are certain restrictions placed on these riders to ensure that they are to participate in the safest possible environment. We have seen some very talented youngsters in recent years and look forward to seeing many more. In addition to normal liability releases, the parent or guardian present will be required to sign a release stating that their child is ready and able to participate in motorcycle track days and/or road racing. The Penguin Racing School reserves the right to disallow participation for any student that we feel is not ready. 

Releases / Parental Presence Required - IMPORTANT

Insurance regulations are very strict with regard to minor participation. Both parents must have signed the minor release form, and at least one parent / legal guardian must be present at all times at the racetrack. If one parent is not present, the absent parent must have prepared the minor release form both printed in color and notarized and presented to Penguin the morning of the event. This form is required for each date that the minor participates in. To download the minor release form CLICK HERE.

Age 16-17 (with drivers license)

Riders that are between 16 and 17 years old are allowed to participate in any class that their parents (or legal guardians) see fit. However, we strongly advise that these riders start in a lightweight or middleweight class (600cc 4-cylinder) and avoid the larger displacement classes.  Riders in this age category must present their driver's license and have parents/guardians present (with photo ID).  

Age 12-15 (and 16-17 without drivers license)

Riders that are between 12 and 17 years old are allowed to participate on only select types of lightweight motorcycles. These motorcycles include 125 Grand Prix bikes, 500cc or smaller single-cylinder motorcycles (including 450cc supermotard bikes), and 500cc or smaller 4 stroke Twin cylinder motorcycles.  Riders in this age category must have proof of age and have a parent or guardian present (with photo ID). All riders under the age of 16 in this group MUST submit a resume to Penguin before being accepted into the program.  This will allow us to help place riders in the class that is most appropriate for them. Resumes don't need to be fancy, just a description of the youth rider experience and any race results from motocross, flat-track or similar activities. We are interested in the long term success of every rider and need to ensure that any minor that intends to participate is prepared for the rigors of riding with 1000cc sportbikes. For those who are not, we are recommending NEMM (New England Mini Moto) as a great place to start. We strongly recommend gaining racing experience (dirt track, supermoto or motocross) before any minor attempts to road race. 

Under age 12

The best place for a new rider to get experience is racing Supermoto.  You can race from age 3 & up, and simply put street tires on mini bikes.  Everything from a Honda CRF 50 to CRF 150R (and everything in between) can be used.  The XR100/125 class us super popular!  In the New England area, we recommend NEMM at https://nemmracing.com/.  For those who want to travel, there are organizations like NJMiniGP and SMEC that have been around for a while and do a great job.

©2004-2022 - Penguin Roadracing School
(Mailing Address Only) Penguin Roadracing School, 105 Baldwinville Road, Winchendon, MA 01475
info@penguinracing.com  978-400-8204
Powered by Wild Apricot Membership Software