Young Honda fans keen to get out and start their racing career will be pleased to hear about recent changes to Motorcycling Australia (MA) regulations in regard to junior capacity classes.

Since the introduction of Honda's XR50 in 1999 and its successor, the CRF50 introduced four years later, young red riders have not been able to compete in MA Division 1 classes due to gearboxes in that class only being allowed to have one gear.

After a long deliberation with MA Sate offices the Board has announced it will now be accepting the CRF50 and other equivalent 3-speed automatic clutch fun bikes to compete in the Junior Class 50cc Automatic Division 1.

These changes will be approved from the date of the release of the 2006 Manual of Motorcycle Sport.

Many past and present Aussie champions began their careers in junior motorcycling, and Honda fully supports junior racing at many levels.

Youngsters can compete at local club events, all the way up to the Honda Australian Junior Motocross Championships with the structure firmly in place for those with determination and skill to experience great success.

The fantastic news for parents is that the reduced recommended retail price for the CRF50F has been extended to 31 March 2006. At only $1999, there is no better time to make dreams come true for that special son or daughter who has an interest in competition motocross.

Kids who are crazy about mini bikes can also become a member of Honda's Red Riders Club free of charge simply by signing up via the website.

Redriders.com.au aims to provide young riders with all kinds of useful information including riding and safety tips, recent news, racing and club information, monthly competitions, ride days and much more.

There are also downloads and photos available, as well as a section for kids to submit their own images and stories.

Anyone who becomes a member receives a free Red Rider Sticker Kit as well as a Membership Card.

Members are also sent a DVD entitled "Ready to Ride" that covers topics such as proper riding apparel, the environment, pre and post ride checks, owner maintenance and much more.

For information on juniors racing, go to www.ma.org.au. Red Riders is located at www.redriders.com.au

Contact:

Lisa Evans, Motorcycle Racing & Public Relations Coordinator,

Mb: 0413 542 004