Beginner's Guide: Rules for Japanese Motorcycling Race

A Japanese version of motorcycle speedway is called “Auto race.” However, the race is held on tarmac tracks and combines gambling.  The auto race comparable to F 1 is thrilling and exciting. It is worshipped by many people internationally. If you are new to it, why not learn the rules and enjoy the Auto Race in Japan? Riders’ sheer grit, bravery, stunning techniques, and the vibe of the race will amaze you.

１．What is Auto race about?

(1)The basics

Auto Race is a government-controlled competitive sport. Twelve games are held per day. Eight riders run on a 500m oval at certain times. The circuit has a small incline which allows riders to make much quicker run. The average speed is 105km. They run on the straight line at 150km and on corners at 90km. The number of laps differs according to the type of races. For example, most of the tracks require riders to circuit 6 laps (3,100 meters), in a counter-clockwise. At a championship tournament, they run ten laps (5,100 meters). Each motorcycle has a different number and colour, which helps the audience to find their favourite rider.

(2) Type of Race and Time

The time used in a race is how many seconds per 100 meters, which is called “ Agari Time.”

There are two types of race.

●Handicap Race
This race is designed to make all riders compete equally so that a slow rider can get a handicap. A race circuit has numerous starting lines whose interval is 10 meters. Under the system, a slow rider can start 10 meters ahead of a faster rider. The maximum handicap is 110 meter.

●Non-Handicap Race(Open-Race)
The race does not have a handicap. All riders start at the same starting line.

２．Auto Racing Rule

The fierce fight between racers is what makes Auto races so thrilling.
Riders go too far, which trigger major accidents that disrupt the race.
The auto race has strict rules and penalties imposed on violators.

(1)Start

All riders have to line up behind the designated starting lines with a contact of their front wheel on the line. After the referee satisfied that riders are correctly positioned and stationary, the green light is on, when a big clock near the line points zero, they must leave the starting lines.

At this point, a starting offence is committed,

If

●Riders make a false start or failed to start. In this case, it needs to be restarted.
●Riders started before the clock points zero and they don’t touch the starting line. It may be penalised.
●Riders start after the clock indicates zero, and they don’t contact the starting line. If they make a foul twice out of 9 competitions, it is penalised.

Red light placed around the track indicates when the foul plays are found.

(2)During a race

The audience is excited when riders’ overtake with dangerous techniques, running at high speed, lowering their elbow near the road.
That thrilling moment never stop. The bravery is performed based on strict rules below.

During a race, driving offence is committed,

If

●Riders overtake leading riders on the inside when there is enough room to pass on the inside safely.
●Riders force other participating riders toward the outer or inner edge of the track.
●Riders intentionally jostle or crash into other participating riders or motorcycles.
●Riders deliberately cut across diagonally into another line to interfere with other riders.

Riders who committed a significant violation during a race are disqualified.

(3)Goal

When any part of the front wheel of a motorcycle passes over the finish line, the staff waves a checkered flag to indicate the finish. It is judged by the staff with the help of video or infrared sensors.

Another distinctive rule is

●If riders finish within top 3 without any reasonable cause, when their time is shorter their test-run time, the rider is excluded from the given race or the next race.

Before participating in a race, drivers run three laps as a test-run, in which they must run the last lap with full force.

Last remarks

The best way to experience an Auto race is going to a stadium. Presently, there are five stadiums in Japan. Also, you can watch it via the Internet or Communication Satelite broadcasting. The auto race is one of the most exciting Japanese sports. Don’t miss it while you are in Japan.