FAQ

Neutralization vs Transfer Zones

Updated

Neutralization is fixed in time (controlled pause).
Transfer ignores time (flexible transit).


What’s the difference between a Neutralization Zone and a Transfer Zone?

Neutralization Zone (NZ): Time is equalized for all. Each rider has a designated restart; they may leave later, not earlier. Use to control regrouping, safety stops, fuel breaks, or to synchronize riders before a special section.

Example: Fuel stop or official pause where everyone must rest 15 min before continuing.

Transfer Zone (TZ): Time spent inside DT→FT is excluded from the rider’s total. Riders can pass freely; ranking isn’t affected by time spent there. Global speed limits still apply unless overridden by a Speed Zone.

Example: Between two dirt stages you have 20 km of public road. Add a Transfer Zone so those 20 km don’t count toward race time.

How does RBR calculate time in these zones?

  • Neutralization: RBR applies a fixed allowed duration (e.g., 15 min). Leaving earlier → penalty. Leaving later → allowed, but adds to real elapsed time.
  • Transfer: RBR subtracts the time each rider spends between the DT (zone start) and FT (zone finish).
  • Speeding and other penalties still apply in both zones.

Do I need a speed limit inside a Neutralization or Transfer Zone?

Not necessarily. If you don’t set one, the global max speed (e.g., 120 km/h) applies.

To effectively “unset” it, add a Speed Zone inside the section (or start the DN/DT with a DZ) using a very high limit (e.g. 200–300 km/h). Fully disabling speed tracking isn’t available yet.

When should I use Neutralization vs Transfer?

Use Neutralization

  • Refuelling stops
  • Controlled flow of competitors
  • Fixed pause for everyone
  • Prevent early restarts (leave later, not earlier)
  • P.S. You can choose whether to include or exclude the time spent inside a Neutralization Zone in your event’s total time - adjust this in the event settings page.

Use Transfer

  • Tarmac / non-competitive links
  • Time spent there does not matter
  • Time spent in zone shouldn’t affect results

Note: Neutralization and Transfer Zone functionality in RBR is slightly different from FIM sporting regulations.
This was intentionally designed to give organizers more flexibility within the RBR platform.
Behavior may evolve in future updates to align more closely with FIM standards.


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