What makes a sport extreme? Is it the potential for injury? Is it the size of the engine? Actually, it’s both. Extreme sports are dangerous sports — their potential for injury is generally high. But that’s not the only thing extreme about the sports: Many extreme sports also rely on power. Whether it be the power of an engine or the power of a participant, the power is always extreme.
By that definition, an extreme sport is a dangerous, powerful sport. To be classified as extreme, the potential for injury must be high or the sport must be one in which few average citizens participate. Let’s take a look at some examples to clarify.
Motor Bikes
All motor bike sports can be classified as extreme. Even with helmets, the potential for injury in motor bike sports is very high. Riders are not protected well from injury at all: There are no roll bars and no seat belts. Riders travel at high speeds over treacherous ground, and they general race in large packs, which encourages accidents.
Go-Carts
Go-carting in serious competitions can get really dicey. Some of the competitors drive up to 160 miles per hour in tiny carts. Basically tin cans, the carts are large enough for one person, and the lightweight design helps drivers go fast but does little to protect them. Even with roll cages (in some carts) injuries are commonplace.
BMX Bikes
BMX biking is a rough ride. Bikes are little more than child’s bikes: They are equipped with one speed. However, they are designed for some extreme jumps and bumps, with thick mountain tires and better suspension. Even with the upgrades, though, BMX biking can be seriously dangerous — missed jumps and harsh dumps are the norm.
So, what makes a sport extreme? The extreme people who design and participate in the sport know the dangers yet still race — that makes an extreme sport truly extreme.
