Onewheel Racing League Guide | ORL

Update 6/13/23: Float Life Fest 6 is AFTER Race for the Rail and will count towards the 2023 season points, but cannot get you an invite to RFTR due to being after.

Justyn Thompson

Are you ready to learn about the Onewheel Racing League and how to get access to the Superbowl of Onewheel racing the Race for the Rail? Look no further, because we’ve got everything you need to know right here in our comprehensive Onewheel Racing League Guide.

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, this guide is your go-to resource for understanding the ins and outs of this exhilarating racing league. From the tiered ranking system and race divisions to important rules and regulations, we’ll cover it all so you can hit the ground running with confidence.

Imagine yourself carving through tight turns and speeding down straightaways as you compete against fellow riders in adrenaline-pumping races. The Onewheel Racing League is where talent meets passion, and we’re here to help unlock your potential as a true contender in this rapidly growing sport.

So grab your board, strap on your best Onewheel helmet and wrist guards, and let’s get started on your journey toward becoming an elite competitor in the Onewheel Racing League!

Future Motion: Onewheel Racing League | The O.R.L.

Future Motion’s premier racing league, is where you’ll experience exhilarating competition and push your Onewheel skills to the limit.

The Onewheel Racing League (ORL) is home to the infamous Race for the Rail and offers a variety of racing divisions to suit all skill levels. Managed by a committee of leading Onewheel race organizers in the community and Future Motion, this fast-growing board sport features epic terrain and hot nasty speed that will keep you coming back for more.

Get ready to compete in one of four racing divisions: Pro Men, Pro Women, Legends, or Clydesdale. Keep in mind that only racers 14 years or older can participate in ORL races and must provide their own Future Motion Inc. Onewheel for regional and premier-sanctioned race competitions.

As you make your way through each race, remember that only the top three results for each rider count towards your rankings and determine who will compete at Race for the Rail – so give it your all!

How do you participate?

To get started, simply check out the various race divisions and sign up for the events that suit your skill level and interests.

There are four racing divisions in ORL: Pro Men, Pro Women, Legends, and Clydesdale. Pro Men and Pro Women divisions are for those who race at the highest skill level and are eligible for Race for the Rail. The Legends division is for racers over 50 years old and eligible for Legends Season Champ, while the Clydesdale division is for men over 215 lbs and is eligible for Clydesdale Season Champ.

You can compete in as many sanctioned and premier races as you’d like, but only points from the top three races will count toward your rankings.

Be prepared to cover travel expenses and lodging if you qualify for Race for the Rail.

What are the rules?

Racers provide their own Onewheel boards for sanctioned races, where board inspections ensure no prohibited modifications have been made.

It’s important to note that Race for the Rail is the ultimate event in Onewheel racing, determining the fastest riders in the league. To qualify, racers must either place first in one of two Premier Sanctioned Races or earn enough combined points to rank within the top 12 Pro Men or top 8 Pro Women after the last sanctioned event.

Modifications are more stringent for this race; only tire changes and back footpad replacements with ORL-certified parts are allowed. Reach out to ORL at orl@onewheel.com if you have any questions regarding participation or rules.

Important and Specific Rules:

1. The minimum age is 14
2. Must wear a helmet that complies with DOT or CPSC standards as well as wrist guards
3. Must adhere to the Onewheel Responsibility Code
4. Must wear closed-toe shoes
5. Headphones are not allowed
6. Racers between 14-18 in the Mens and Womens Pro divisions must have a parent or guardian present
7. Boards MUST be Future Motion Inc. produced including the motor and controller
8. Modifications like fins and tires are specific to the organizers of the events
9. You can modify the tire pressure, digital shaping, and rear footpad
10. Racers are responsible for their battery level
11. If there is a board malfunction during a race it can be submitted for inspection
12. Racers must respect and follow the boundaries of the race between the start and finish lines
13. Photo finish will be settled by video review
14. Riders MUST cross the finish line while riding their Onewheel.
15. Races are timed by ORL-approved professional and automated timing systems with a manual timer as a backup
16. Riders have a right to their own line and space
17. Offensive contact as determined by 2 or more ORL officials can result in disqualification and includes ramming, shouldering, pushing with full arm extension, grabbing of the person or jersey, or other unnecessarily aggressive actions.
18. During a race, off-board competitors must yield to other riders.
19. Lapped racers must yield to lead racers
20. Profanity or flagrant discourtesy is grounds for disqualification and events follow a zero-tolerance policy towards bullying, harassment, or any behavior that threatens the safety of an inclusive environment.
21. Protests of results, the conduct of a racer, suspicions of illegal board modifications or any other matters related to the race may only be filed by a competitor during the event and to an ORL Race Official
22. No cheating, poor sportsmanship, unruly behavior, violence, or disruption.
23. Ignorance of the rules is never an admissible defense.

Penalties and Disqualifications

Bans, Disqualifications, Penalties, and Rules of Engagement are to be determined by video review (if available) and a private panel of ORL Officials. All decisions are final.

1. Prior to start time, any racer who is intoxicated or suspected to be under the influence of any substances will be disqualified
2. A racer is responsible for their family and group. Any detrimental action caused by members of these group(s) could result in the riders’ disqualification.
3. Any racer who is found to be cheating or manipulating/modifying race boards will be suspended or permanently banned from all ORL events
4. Interfering with another racer’s start will result in a 10-second penalty or disqualification
5. In the event of an occurrence or reasonable suspicion of an occurrence beyond the control of ORL officials such as inclement weather, earthquake or other acts of God ORL officials reserve the right to reschedule or cancel the event

Complete Rules and Regulations can be found here

World Championship, Premiere, and Regional Sanctioned Events

The World Championship event is the Race for the Rail, but on the way to getting there, you can earn points in the Premiere and Regional Sanctioned Events. The sanctioned races may change, but in 2023, these are the currently sanctioned races you can earn points at.

Regional Sanctioned Races

Let It Ride 2

Boulder City, Nevada

April 14-16

Oak City Shred Fest

Raleigh, North Carolina

May 4-7

North West Electric Fest

Creswell, Oregon

July 13-16

Premier Sanctioned Races

Dirtsurferz

Eureka Springs, Arkansas

May 19-21

Seek N Shred

Wilseyville, California

June 15-18

FloatLife Fest 6

Raleigh, North Carolina

Sept 13-17

World Championship

Race for the Rail ( The Onewheel Superbowl )

Sky Tavern Road, Reno, NV, USA

Sept 8-9th

How are points earned?

Curious about how points are earned in ORL? Let’s explore the system and see how racers can boost their rankings!

The 2023 ORL rankings use a point-based tiered system for Onewheel racing, with three different point tiers: Tier 1, Tier 2, and Tier 3.

The season starts on January 1st and typically ends with FloatLife Fest. Points will be rewarded to the top 50 men and top 20 women at each sanctioned race.

To determine a rider’s ranking, only their top three results with the highest point value will count towards their rankings. In case there is a tie in points between racers, a fourth result will be looked at or the mean place will be calculated based on their fourth result.

It’s important to note that only Pro Men and Women’s rankings count towards Race for the Rail invitations. Legends and Clydesdale divisions have their own point values and rankings but won’t impact Race for the Rail spots.

So go ahead – compete in as many races as you want to increase your chances of earning higher points from your best three performances!

What is Race For The Rail?

Ready to test your skills at the ultimate Onewheel racing event? Race for the Rail is open to anyone 14 years and older who’s up for the challenge of becoming the fastest rider in the States. Race for the Rail is considered the Superbowl of Onewheel racing for riders and spectators.

To secure an invitation, you can either place first in one of the two Premier Sanctioned Races prior to Race for the Rail in the Pro division or be ranked in the top 12 Pro Mens or top 8 Pro Women’s division after the last sanctioned event. Keep in mind that 2022 champions get an automatic bid, and a spot will be reserved for both men’s and women’s European Onewheel Circuit riders.

When competing at Race for the Rail, remember that motor, battery, and controller modifications are not allowed. However, tire changes and back footpad replacements are permitted with ORL-certified parts. No foot-binding devices will be allowed, and original Onewheel branding must remain visible.

Racers will be seeded by their 2023 ORL rankings, including returning champions from 2022. The European Onewheel Circuit men’s rider will automatically be seeded at position 12 while the women’s rider at position 7.

Future Motion typically provides stock boards for the final races compared to Regional and Sanctioned races that allow your personal boards as long as they adhere to the requirements.

So gear up and get ready to race your way to victory!

What are the prizes?

Imagine the thrill of victory as you gain bragging rights of being a top Onewheel racer and snag impressive cash prizes for your top-notch racing skills in ORL events! Not only do you get to showcase your talent and passion for Onewheel racing, but also enjoy the fruits of your labor through well-deserved rewards.

Regional Race Prizes

• 1st – $500 in Gear
• 2nd – $250 in Gear
• 3rd – $100 in Gear

You also get ranking points toward Race for the Rail

Premier Race Prizes

• 1st – $1200
• 2nd -$700
• 3rd – $500

You also get ranking points toward Race for the Rail

1st place in Pro Men and Pro Women automatically qualify for Race for the Rail.

Race for the Rail

• 1st – The Rail, The Glory and $10,000
• $2,500
• $1,000

Not only do you have the chance to win prizes but participating in these adrenaline-pumping races elevates your status among fellow racers, while potentially earning you a spot at the prestigious Race for the Rail. The excitement doesn’t end there, as winning an ORL event brings several other benefits:

• Recognition within the Onewheel community
• Boosting your confidence and motivation to keep improving
• Attracting potential sponsorships or partnerships
• The satisfaction of achieving a remarkable milestone in your racing career

Remember, along with cash prizes, participation in ORL events is an opportunity to be part of something bigger – a vibrant community that shares your passion and enthusiasm for this exhilarating sport.

Final Thoughts

Embrace the thrill and camaraderie that comes with being part of this electrifying community, as you push your limits and conquer new heights together.

The Onewheel Racing League offers an exciting experience for racers of all skill levels, allowing you to challenge yourself while enjoying the support and encouragement of fellow competitors.

As a participant in the ORL, you’ll have numerous opportunities to showcase your skills and advance through the rankings. With various divisions tailored to different abilities and age groups, there’s a place for everyone in this rapidly growing sport.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can beginners prepare for participating in the Onewheel Racing League?

If you’re a beginner looking to participate, start by familiarizing yourself with the league’s rules and requirements.

Next, invest time in practicing your riding skills, focusing on balance, speed, and control. Join local Onewheel communities or online forums for tips and advice from experienced riders.

Attend races as a spectator to observe racing techniques and strategies firsthand. Lastly, ensure you have the proper equipment – a Future Motion Inc. Onewheel – and maintain it according to guidelines.

With dedication and practice, you’ll be well-prepared for your first Onewheel racing experience!

Are there any specific safety gear requirements for racers participating in the events?

When participating in Onewheel racing events, it’s essential to prioritize your safety by wearing appropriate safety gear.

Although specific requirements may vary from event to event, helmet and wrist guards are required. Other protective equipment includes elbow and knee pads, chest plates, and closed-toe shoes with good traction.

Be sure to check the rules and guidelines for each race you enter, as they may have additional or unique safety gear requirements.

Can spectators attend the Onewheel Racing League events, and if so, are there any ticketing or admission details?

Yes, spectators are welcome to attend Onewheel Racing League events and cheer on their favorite racers.

While specific ticketing or admission details may vary depending on the event, you can stay updated by checking the league’s website or social media channels for any announcements related to spectator information.

Don’t miss out on the chance to experience the excitement and thrill of watching live Onewheel races!

How does the Onewheel Racing League support environmental sustainability during its events?

The Onewheel Racing League is committed to environmental sustainability during its events. As a participant or spectator, you can expect eco-friendly measures such as waste reduction, and promoting responsible use of natural resources.

Additionally, the league racers use electric-powered Onewheels, which have a smaller carbon footprint compared to traditional gas-powered vehicles.

By supporting the league and participating in its events, you’re contributing to a greener future for board sports and outdoor activities.

Are there any opportunities for volunteers or sponsorships within the Onewheel Racing League?

Did you know that the Onewheel Racing League is one of the fastest-growing board sports?

If you’re interested in getting involved, there are definitely opportunities for volunteers and sponsorships within the league.

As a volunteer, you can help with race organization, track maintenance, and event coordination.

For businesses looking to sponsor events or racers, various sponsorship options are available to promote your brand while supporting this thrilling sport.

So go ahead and join the excitement by contributing your time or resources to the Onewheel Racing League community!

Conclusion

So, you’re ready to dive headfirst into the adrenaline-pumping world of Onewheel racing. Just remember, practice makes perfect, so keep carving those trails and climbing that ladder to the top.

In the end, joining the Onewheel Racing League is like embarking on an electrifying rollercoaster ride – thrilling twists and turns await. With dedication and passion fueling your journey, who knows? You might just become a legend in this exhilarating sport!

If you love Onewheel racing be sure to check out my Onewheel racing song and video: Rap for The Rail and if you want to learn about Underground Circuit racing, check out our Underground Onewheel racing guide.