What American Flat Track Is

American Flat Track is a motorcycle racing series that runs on oval dirt tracks across the United States. Riders compete on lightweight motorcycles on surfaces ranging from half-mile to mile-long ovals, racing at speeds that often exceed 100 mph. The sport has roots going back nearly a century — the American Motorcyclist Association began sanctioning flat track events in the 1930s — and it remains one of the few forms of motorsport where American riders regularly compete at the highest level without traveling internationally.

Unlike road racing or motocross, flat track racing happens on closed circuits with banked turns. The bikes are stripped-down machines with minimal bodywork, no brakes on the rear wheel, and tires designed specifically for dirt. Races typically last between 25 and 50 laps, depending on track length and class. The sport draws a dedicated following, particularly in the Midwest and West, where tracks have operated continuously for decades.

Key Takeaways

  • American Flat Track sanctions races on dirt ovals across the country, with the premier series featuring two main classes: Singles (650cc) and Twins (750cc twin-engine bikes).
  • The racing season typically runs from March through October, with events held most weekends at different tracks, and the schedule is published annually by the sanctioning body.
  • You can watch races live at tracks that host AFT events, or through streaming services and television broadcasts that cover major events throughout the season.
  • Entry-level riders can compete in amateur flat track series before moving to professional ranks, and many tracks offer riding schools or instruction for people new to the sport.

The Two Main Racing Classes

The American Flat Track series divides riders into two primary classes based on motorcycle engine size and configuration. The Singles class uses 650cc single-cylinder motorcycles, which are lighter and more nimble than their larger counterparts. These bikes are often the entry point for riders moving from amateur racing into the professional series, and races in this class tend to be tightly bunched with frequent position changes.

The Twins class features 750cc twin-engine motorcycles that produce significantly more power. These bikes are heavier and require different riding techniques, particularly in how riders manage acceleration and braking into turns. Twins races are typically longer and draw the most spectator attention, as the bikes are faster and the racing is often more aggressive. Both classes race on the same tracks and often on the same day, with Twins usually serving as the headline event.

Beyond these two classes, AFT also sanctions Production Twin racing, which uses street-legal motorcycles modified for racing, and various amateur classes that serve as stepping stones for younger or less experienced riders. The specific classes offered can vary by track and by season.

How the Racing Season Is Structured

American Flat Track typically runs a season from March through October, with races held most weekends at different tracks across the country. The schedule includes races at permanent facilities — tracks that host AFT events regularly — and occasional events at fairgrounds or temporary venues. The full schedule is published before the season begins, usually in late fall or early winter, and includes the location, date, and which classes will compete at each event.

Points are awarded based on finishing position at each race, and riders accumulate points throughout the season. The rider with the most points in each class at the end of the season is crowned the champion. Some tracks also host special events or championships that carry extra points or prize money. Weather can affect the schedule — races are occasionally postponed or cancelled due to rain or track conditions — so checking the official AFT website or your local track's social media before traveling is important.

Where to Watch Live Racing

The most direct way to watch American Flat Track is to attend races in person at tracks that host AFT events. Spectator admission is typically charged at the gate, and prices vary by track and event. Most tracks allow you to bring your own seating and food, and many have grandstands with reserved or general admission sections. Parking is usually free or low-cost. The atmosphere at flat track events is generally casual and family-friendly, with racing often starting in the afternoon and continuing into evening under lights at many venues.

To find a track near you, the American Flat Track website publishes the full schedule with links to individual track websites. Each track's site usually lists admission prices, parking information, and what time gates open. Some tracks are located at county fairgrounds and only host AFT events during certain weekends, while others are dedicated racing facilities that may host other events as well.

Television and Streaming Coverage

Major American Flat Track events are broadcast on television and through streaming services. The primary broadcast partner has changed over the years, so checking the AFT website or your local track's information page will tell you which network or streaming platform is carrying races for the current season. Some races are broadcast live, while others air on a delayed basis. Streaming options may require a subscription or may be free depending on the platform and the specific event.

In addition to official broadcasts, some tracks produce their own live streams of races, which may be available free or for a small fee through their website or social media pages. These unofficial streams vary in quality and may not cover the entire race day, but they can be a way to watch if you cannot attend in person and the race is not being broadcast nationally.

Getting Started as a Rider

If you are interested in racing flat track yourself rather than watching, most regions have amateur flat track series that run separately from the professional AFT schedule. These amateur events are typically sanctioned by the AMA (American Motorcyclist Association) and are held at the same tracks or at smaller local facilities. Amateur racing is organized by class based on age, experience level, and sometimes engine size, so there are entry points for beginners and for riders with prior racing experience.

Many tracks that host AFT events also offer riding schools or instruction days where you can learn flat track techniques on a motorcycle provided by the school or your own bike. These schools teach the fundamentals of dirt oval racing, including how to slide the rear tire, manage throttle control, and position yourself on the bike. Instruction is usually offered by former or current racers and costs vary by facility. Starting with instruction before entering amateur races is common and helps you develop skills safely.

To race in amateur events, you will need an AMA membership, a racing license (which you can obtain through the AMA), a motorcycle that meets the class specifications, safety gear including a helmet and leathers, and entry fees for each race. The specific requirements and costs vary by class and region, so contacting your local track or the AMA directly will give you the most accurate information for your area.

The History and Culture of Flat Track Racing

American flat track racing emerged in the 1920s and 1930s when motorcycle clubs began organizing races on dirt tracks, fairgrounds, and even frozen lakes. The sport grew rapidly during the mid-20th century, becoming one of the most popular forms of motorsport in rural America. Many of the tracks still in use today were built in the 1950s and 1960s and have hosted racing continuously for over 60 years. This long history means that flat track racing is deeply embedded in the communities where tracks are located, and many families have multiple generations of riders or spectators.

The culture of flat track is distinct from other motorcycle racing. Races are typically more accessible and affordable than road racing or motocross events, both for spectators and for riders. The community aspect is strong — riders often know each other, and the same faces appear at multiple tracks throughout the season. The sport has produced many notable American motorcycle racers, and it remains a primary path for American riders to develop skills before moving to road racing or international competition.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between flat track and motocross?

Flat track racing happens on oval dirt tracks with banked turns, while motocross takes place on closed-course tracks with jumps, berms, and varied terrain. Flat track bikes have no rear brakes and are designed for sustained speed on smooth dirt, whereas motocross bikes are built for acceleration, jumping, and technical terrain. The riding techniques, bike setup, and racing strategy are completely different.

Can I bring my family to watch a race?

Yes. Most American Flat Track events are family-friendly, with general admission for all ages. Many tracks have areas where children can sit with parents, and the casual atmosphere makes it accessible for spectators of all ages. Bring sunscreen, water, and seating if you prefer, as most tracks do not provide covered grandstands everywhere.

How fast do flat track motorcycles go?

Speeds vary by track length and class. On mile-long ovals, Twins class bikes regularly exceed 100 mph on the straights, while Singles class bikes typically reach 80 to 90 mph. On shorter half-mile tracks, top speeds are lower but lap times are often faster due to the tighter turns and more frequent acceleration.

Where can I find the AFT schedule?

The official American Flat Track website publishes the full season schedule, including dates, locations, and which classes will race at each event. Individual track websites also list their upcoming AFT events. The schedule is usually released in late fall for the following season.

Do I need a motorcycle license to race flat track?

You need an AMA racing license, which is separate from a street motorcycle license. The AMA issues racing licenses to members who meet age and safety requirements. You do not need a street license to obtain a racing license, though most racers have both.