Motorcycle speedway, is a motorcycle sport involving four and sometimes up to six riders competing over four laps of an oval circuit. The motorcycles are specialized machines that use only one gear and have no brakes; racing takes place on a flat oval track usually consisting of dirt (clay) and some sand. Competitors use this surface to slide their machines sideways, or as some of the regular fans say “slideways” into the turns.

 On the straight sections of the track the motorcycles reach speeds of up to 60 miles per hour.

Speedway bikes are built to the absolute bare minimum required. There are no brakes or rear suspension. A methanol-powered single cylinder of no more than 500cc that propels rider and machine around the course at incredible speeds. The whole package must weigh at least 170 pounds dry.