AMA Flat Track is a motorcycle racing series run by the American Motorcyclist Association on oval dirt tracks

AMA Flat Track is the sanctioning body and racing series for dirt oval motorcycle racing in the United States. The American Motorcyclist Association organizes the events, sets the rules, and maintains the championship standings. Races happen on half-mile, mile, and short-track ovals — mostly dirt, some clay — where riders compete in different classes based on motorcycle type and engine size.

The sport has roots going back to the 1930s, when motorcycle racing on dirt ovals was one of the most popular forms of motorsport in America. Today, AMA Flat Track sanctions roughly 80 to 100 events per year across regional and national levels. The premier national series is called the AFT (American Flat Track), which runs a championship schedule with races at tracks across the country.

Key Takeaways

  • AMA Flat Track racing happens on oval dirt tracks in different sizes, with riders competing in classes like AFT Singles, AFT Twins, and AFT SuperTwins based on engine displacement.
  • The national championship series, American Flat Track (AFT), runs roughly 18 to 20 events per year with races at tracks in multiple states.
  • Riders need a valid motorcycle license, a racing license from AMA, and a motorcycle that meets the technical rules for their chosen class.
  • Entry costs vary by track and event level, but regional races typically cost $50 to $150 to enter, while national AFT events charge higher sanction fees.
  • Spectators can watch races at most tracks for $10 to $30 per ticket, with some tracks offering free admission to practice sessions.

The different racing classes and motorcycle types

AMA Flat Track divides riders into classes based on engine size and motorcycle configuration. AFT Singles is the entry-level class, using single-cylinder motorcycles with engines up to 450cc. This class is designed to be affordable and accessible for new riders learning flat track racing.

AFT Twins features twin-cylinder motorcycles with engines between 650cc and 750cc. AFT SuperTwins is the top national class, allowing twin-cylinder bikes with larger engines — typically 750cc to 1200cc depending on the specific rules that year. There are also regional classes and vintage divisions for older motorcycles.

Each class has its own technical rulebook covering engine modifications, frame design, tire specifications, and safety equipment. The rules are designed to keep costs reasonable in lower classes while allowing more performance in the national series. Riders typically stay in one class for a season, though they can move up or down based on their skill level and budget.

How races are structured and scored

A typical flat track race day includes practice sessions in the morning, may have access to heats in the afternoon, and main events in the evening. Riders earn points based on their finishing position in each race — first place gets the most points, and points decrease down the field. At the end of a season, the rider with the most accumulated points wins the championship in their class.

Races themselves are short and intense. A main event might last 25 laps on a half-mile track or 15 laps on a mile track, with races typically finishing in 10 to 20 minutes. The track surface changes throughout the day as it gets worn and watered down, so setup and tire choice matter enormously. Riders often make adjustments between practice and may have access to to handle the changing conditions.

National AFT events use a more complex points system that rewards consistency across multiple races and can include bonus points for pole position or leading laps. Regional events typically use simpler scoring where each race stands on its own, and a rider's season total is just the sum of all their finishes.

Getting a racing license and entering events

To race in AMA Flat Track events, you need a valid motorcycle license from your state and an AMA racing license. You can get an AMA racing license through the AMA website or at the track before your first event. The cost is roughly $40 to $60 for an annual membership that includes racing privileges, though some tracks allow day licenses for first-time racers.

Your motorcycle must pass a technical inspection at the track before you can race. An AMA official will check that your bike meets the rules for your class — engine size, frame type, brakes, lights (if required), and safety equipment. You'll need a helmet that meets DOT or Snell standards, and most tracks require a leather jacket, gloves, and boots.

Entry fees for regional races typically run $50 to $150 depending on the track and class. National AFT events charge higher sanction fees, often $200 to $400 or more for premier classes. These fees cover track rental, insurance, and AMA sanction costs. Some tracks offer discounts if you enter multiple classes or if you're a member of a local motorcycle club.

Where races happen and the racing season

AMA Flat Track races occur at tracks across the country, with concentrations in the Midwest, Southwest, and California. Famous tracks include the Peoria Speedway in Illinois, the Daytona Short Track in Florida, and the Stockton Mile in California. Most tracks are 0.5 miles to 1 mile around, though some regional events use smaller quarter-mile ovals.

The national AFT season typically runs from March through October, with races scheduled most weekends. Regional series vary by area — some run year-round in warmer climates, while northern regions have shorter seasons. The AFT championship culminates in a final event, often called the "Finale," where points are tallied for the year's champion.

Spectator racing also happens at many tracks, where fans can watch practice and may have access to for free or at a low cost. Main events usually charge admission, typically $10 to $30 depending on the track and whether it's a regional or national event. Some tracks offer reserved seating or VIP packages at higher prices.

Costs to consider if you want to race

Starting in flat track racing requires an upfront investment in a motorcycle and safety gear. A used flat track bike suitable for AFT Singles might cost $3,000 to $8,000, while a competitive Twins bike could run $8,000 to $15,000 or more. Safety gear — helmet, jacket, gloves, boots — adds another $500 to $1,500.

Ongoing costs include entry fees per race, fuel, tires, and maintenance. Tires are a significant expense because flat track tires wear quickly and need to be replaced frequently. A set of racing tires might cost $200 to $400. Fuel and routine maintenance add another $100 to $300 per race weekend depending on how far you travel.

If you plan to race at national AFT events, add travel costs — hotel, fuel, meals — which can easily exceed $500 to $1,000 per event if you're traveling far from home. Many racers start at regional events near their home to keep costs down, then move to national events as they improve and can justify the expense.

How to find races near you

The AMA website lists all sanctioned flat track events by state and date. You can search for races in your region and find contact information for the track promoter. Local motorcycle shops and clubs often have flyers or information about upcoming events, and many tracks maintain their own websites with schedules and entry information.

If you're new to the sport, attending a race as a spectator first is a good way to see what it's about and talk to riders and teams. Most tracks have a pit area where you can walk around before the races start and ask questions. Many racers are willing to talk about how they got started and what it takes to compete.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a special motorcycle to race flat track, or can I use a street bike?

You need a motorcycle built or modified for flat track racing. Street bikes have fairings, lights, and suspension designed for pavement, which don't work on dirt ovals. Most racers use purpose-built flat track bikes or heavily modified used racing bikes. A used flat track bike is usually cheaper than buying a street bike and trying to convert it.

What's the difference between AFT Singles and AFT Twins?

AFT Singles uses smaller single-cylinder engines (up to 450cc) and is the entry-level class with lower costs. AFT Twins uses larger twin-cylinder engines (650cc to 750cc) and is more competitive and expensive. SuperTwins is the top national class with the biggest engines and fastest bikes. Most riders start in Singles and move up as they gain experience and budget allows.

Can I race flat track if I've never raced before?

Yes. Many regional events welcome first-time racers, and AFT Singles is designed as an entry point. You'll need a valid motorcycle license and an AMA racing license, and your bike must pass technical inspection. It's common to start at a local or regional track near your home before moving to national events.

How much does it cost to watch a flat track race?

Spectator admission typically ranges from free for practice sessions to $10 to $30 for main events, depending on the track and whether it's a regional or national race. Some tracks offer reserved seating or pit passes at higher prices. Check the track's website for the specific event you want to attend.

What happens if my motorcycle doesn't pass technical inspection?

You won't be allowed to race until the issue is fixed. Common failures include engine size over the limit for your class, improper brakes, or safety equipment that doesn't meet standards. You have time before the race to make repairs at the track or go home and come back, depending on how serious the problem is and the track's rules.