Keep It Smooth Conquering Rhythm Sections W/ Sean Cantrell

A rhythm section is a series of jumps that are tied together to create a technical lane on the track. Regardless of their difficulty, which can vary greatly, riders either love them or hate them. If you have a lot of time in the saddle and are comfortable with jumping, then these sections can be a lot of fun. However, if you’re having trouble with mastering jumps and timing, chances are you’re not a fan!

- Casey Davis

More often than not the only thing holding us back from taking on a new obstacle or section is fear, as motocross is as much a mental challenge as it is physical. “Tackling a new section on the track is all in your head,” Sean Cantrell said when asked about the 2017 Red Bull Straight Rhythm course. “A few of the jumps were pretty big, but we do jumps of that magnitude constantly on the Supercross track.” He laid out a number of ways that a rider can overcome a hang-up on a new rhythm section and broke down one of the most technical obstacles in motocross.

Size It Up 

First things first, you should always check the track out initially. Roll the jumps on your first lap to see what you’re working with for that day. It’s never a good idea to send it on the first lap, because the track or course could be different from your last visit and wrecking yourself on the first lap is never fun. Once you’re acquainted with the layout or section and have it all memorized, start small and knock out the easy jumps first.

It’s All In Your Head