[AD – Gifted]
Ride an electric off-road bike on an indoor dirt track
Suitable for kids, teens and adults age 3+
Location: Wheeldon Off Road Centre, Halwell near Totnes, Devon TQ9 7JY
All-weather, all-year round activity
I had mistakenly thought that dirt bike riding was just for teens. Our daughter has been wanting to ride a bike for at least two years having helped her Dad restore an old bike in the garage, but after looking up indoor karting and junior motocross options in the area it looked as though she was going to have to wait until she was older to get some riding or driving experience – and then maybe have to get to grips with a clutch and gears.
That is until we discovered newly up & running business Volt MX, based at Wheeldon Off Road Centre in Halwell, Devon – not far from Totnes/Dartmouth/Salcombe and an hour south of Exeter.
Using a range of electric off-road bikes, they offer group sessions for kids, teens and adults from complete beginner through to expert – from age 3 years upwards! In their large indoor arena (making this an all year round, all weather activity), riders will learn to use the throttle and brakes and practice steering and balance on the practice loop with patient and helpful instructors before letting loose on the impressive dirt track.
The beauty of the electric bikes is that they are simple ‘twist and go’ bikes – easy enough for younger ones to operate and no complicated gears and clutch to deal with for beginners. Riders can then quickly get the hang of it and spend plenty of their 2 hour session out scaling the ramps!
Sessions are organised into age groups, with sessions for kids aged 3-9, 10-16, and mixed youth/adult sessions designed to allow older kids to ride alongside adults. I know quite a few dads and some mums who have said they would like to give their teenagers a schooling on the track and show them how it’s done. Time to book in and prove it?!
Alternatively, if you’ve got something specific in mind – a birthday party group or family riding session for example, get in touch with the owner Paul who will be happy to organise a session around your requirements.
This is a unique offering in Devon, giving younger kids the opportunity to ride at a professional indoor track.
Highly recommend to anyone looking for a special experience where kids and teens will feel like they’ve done something really cool.
Details
Sessions last approximately 2 hours, which includes time to put body armour, boots, helmets and gloves on (provided by venue) and time with an instructor on the practice track. Once ready for the main track, riders will spend time on the main circuit, coming off every 30 minutes or so for a rest while another group takes a turn.
Riders can be complete novices but the ability to control the bike, follow instructions/safety guidance and be able to balance is essential. Volt MX advises that riders are able to ride a pushbike or balance bike confidently before booking in, to get the best from the experience.
The bikes are very quiet compared to traditional motocross bikes, with no exhaust fumes, making them more friendly to anyone with sensory issues.
Riders need to wear long sleeved tops and trousers for protection – and warmth in winter as the arena is unheated. Wear something old or dark as riders may well leave a bit dirty. Gloves, body armour, helmets and boots are provided.
Spectators can watch from a basic viewing area in the arena, be aware it is a dirt track with loose sand underfoot so white trainers/ sandals are best avoided! At the moment there is limited seating available and limited refreshments (vending machine) so bring along plenty of water and snacks and be prepared to stand (or bring a camp chair). In winter the arena is cold, spectators need to wrap up warm!
There is a toilet and free parking on-site.
Costs and Sessions
Check here for the most up to date information. Info correct as at Jan 2023:
Children (ages 3 - 9) 2 hour sessions £40
Youth (ages 10 -16) 2 hour sessions £50
Youth-Adult 2 hour sessions £70
Pre bookings only – book here
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