Spring A Ding Ding

I am heading down to Kemp, Texas for Spring A Ding Ding, which is one of those spots on the calendar where everyone shows up to see who did their homework over the winter. Underground MX is basically the hub for spring nationals in that part of the country. It is not just some local race. It is where you find out if your speed is actually there before the summer qualifiers start rolling around. The atmosphere is always high energy because the classes are stacked and everyone is ready to burn some gas.

The dirt at Underground is famous for getting deep. It is that thick Texas clay that develops those massive ruts that go all the way through the corners and down the faces of jumps. You cannot just coast through here. The layout usually features big jumps that require some serious commitment, but it is the technical sections that really matter. If it rains, the place turns into a heavy grind. When the sun is out and the crew has it prepped, you get some of the best traction you will ever find.

If Kyle Swanson was watching my motos here, he would be on my case about line choice and keeping my head up. You have to look way past the front fender because those ruts get so long. He would have me focusing on the transition from braking to throttle so the bike stays settled in the chop. It is a lot of work on the legs. If you are lazy with your form, this track will let you know about it pretty quick. We would spend the whole day making sure my momentum stays up so I do not get bogged down in the soft stuff.

If you are serious about racing, you need to get your truck loaded for this one. It is a heavy hitter on the amateur schedule. Bring plenty of spare goggles and tear-offs because the roost is heavy when the dirt is tacky. You should also bring more water than you think you need since that Texas sun can get warm fast. The facility is top-tier and the dirt is some of my favorite in the country. Just be ready to work for every second on the clock. It is not an easy weekend, but it is one you will be thinking about all season.