The Mexican 1000 is currently the only race put on by NORRA that has motorcycles. That could change in October with the NORRA 500, though it’s still contingent on getting at least ten entries.

The NORRA 500 had bikes for the first two editions in 2019 and 2021. Doug Smith won the overall at the former on his Honda CRF450 before Mark Seiler claimed the latter with his Honda XR650R. Due to low registration, they did not return for 2022 and have been absent since.

However, calls to bring the two-wheelers back have grown in recent times. While the Mexican 1000 remains NORRA’s crown jewel, riders clamored for the 500 to do the same as its shorter distance made riding vintage bikes more palatable.

NORRA heard the calls but the ball is in the riders’ court when registration opens on July 1. From then until September 1, if the race can get ten teams at minimum to place a $200 deposit, bike director Jimmy Lewis will get to setting things up.

“It’s a lot of work to get the roadbooks done, to put a special course in,” said Lewis. “If you’re really serious about finding out what NORRA and motorcycle racing in Baja, Mexico is all about: fun, good terrain, not beat up stuff that gets pre-run on, this is one time through, really nice course, and two days of racing.”

The deposit will go toward paying the entry fee if the required number of entrants is reached. If not, it will be refunded.

Besides the usual Pro and Amateur classes, NORRA is looking to introduce a GPS-based category for the 500 if motorcycles indeed take part.

“That means instead of running the roadbook, you will get a line,” Lewis explained. “You will be able to follow your GPS as opposed to having to navigate with a roadbook. You’re not going to get it early, you’re going to get it at the start line. We’ll deliver you that information, but you will be scored kind of in your own classification.

“The course will be slightly different, so it might be a little bit easier. That way, we can determine what we do going forward for the Mexican 1000 if we continue with this class.

“If you’re interested in this kind of racing, let us know, show us the support by signing up. If that works out, we’ll have dirt bikes at the Mexican 500. The NORRA 500 is waiting for motos. Hopefully, you’ll be at the starting line.”

The 2025 NORRA 500 will take place on October 9–12.

Featured image credit: via Steve Montana