Supercross SMX: sound limit drops to 109 dB for 2027
The newsroomUpdated on November 2, 20263 minThe AMA sound limit falls from 112.0 to 109 dB in 2027, starting with the SMX World Championship opener in Anaheim in January. What it means for supercross.
Key point
From January 2027 the AMA sound limit drops from 112.0 to 109 dB, 3 dB lower, starting at the SMX World Championship opener in Anaheim.
The SMX League is turning down the volume. The 2027 AMA Supercross Championship rulebook, released on Monday, introduces a maximum sound limit of 109 dB for professional off-road motorcycle racing. It takes effect in January, at the start of the 2027 Monster Energy SMX World Championship at Angel Stadium in Anaheim, California.
A 3 dB drop
The current AMA sound limit is 112.0 dB. It falls to 109 dB, a reduction of 3 dB. According to the research cited in the announcement, the cut brings meaningful benefits beyond the track itself. Suzuki says the benefit is greatest for residents farther from the circuit. The standard was developed with the manufacturers, the SMX League, AMA Pro Racing and the AMA.
The timing is precise: the first application comes at the 2027 SMX season opener at Angel Stadium in Anaheim on Saturday, January 9. All manufacturers competing in SMX League events have committed to compliant motorcycles for 2027.
Why now?
The organisers give several reasons:
- protecting the long-term future of stadiums, local motocross tracks, riding areas and the communities that host them;
- better communication inside stadiums and a better fan experience;
- a stronger broadcast presentation;
- a single global specification that simplifies development and production for manufacturers.
What the manufacturers say
Roger De Coster, Motorsports Director at KTM North America, sees the alignment as an efficiency gain for manufacturers, teams and riders competing internationally. At Yamaha, Derek Brooks calls it a "thoughtful, collaborative approach" that keeps the performance level expected. Brandon Wilson of American Honda says the company is happy to produce compliant bikes and points to the benefit of a single global specification.
Mike Wroblewski, Director of SMX Race Operations, presents the move as a more consistent framework for the whole SMX World Championship season.
Support for teams
The SMX League and its partners are providing technical guidance to teams and riders ahead of 2027, with an emphasis on independent teams. The wider goal, according to the announcement, is to develop quieter motorcycles to promote more access to off-road riding and racing areas in North America and around the world.
Key points
- Limit: 109 dB, down from 112.0 dB.
- Start: the 2027 SMX World Championship opener in Anaheim, in January.
- All SMX League manufacturers have committed to compliant bikes.
Frequently asked questions
What is the new sound limit in supercross?
A maximum of 109 dB for professional off-road motorcycle racing, down from 112.0 dB today: 3 dB lower.
When does the rule take effect?
From January 2027, at the start of the Monster Energy SMX World Championship at Angel Stadium in Anaheim, California, on Saturday, January 9.
Why reduce the noise of the bikes?
To protect the future of stadiums, local motocross tracks and riding areas and the communities that host them, and to improve communication inside stadiums.
Sources
- MX Vice — The SMX League sets a new sound benchmark: 109 dB
- Gatedrop — Sound decibel level reduced for AMA Supercross and Motocross in 2027
Written by the Karrazmotorsport newsroom, proofread before publication. For settings, always refer to your vehicle's manual. Our charter.
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