ProTaper Holeshot Device

ProTaper SELA: The Holeshot Device That Works Solo

In motocross, the start is everything. Holeshot devices have been a staple of competitive dirt bike racing for decades, and for good reason — a holeshot device is a mechanical system designed to temporarily compress a dirt bike's front suspension at the start of a race, locking the front forks in a lowered position to reduce front-end lift under hard acceleration, improving traction and helping the rider launch faster and straighter off the gate. But there has always been one stubborn problem — until now.

The Problem ProTaper Solved

Ever since the modern motocross starting device was invented in the early 2000s, racers have been able to be more aggressive off the starting line with their front suspension locked down — but most riders need the help of a mechanic or friend to lock the device into place with a well-timed compression of the fork and push of the button. This is where the team at ProTaper saw a need for a better starting device — one that could be actuated by the rider alone, without any outside assistance.

Introducing the SELA – Self-Engaged Launch Assist

ProTaper's revolutionary SELA Device (Self-Engaged Launch Assist) solves a problem faced by all motocross racers, no matter their skill level: setting a start device alone is awkward at best and impossible at worst. With its patent-pending self-engaged twist dial, SELA can be easily set without any assistance, giving riders the freedom to practice starts and line up for races by themselves.

The performance benefits are equally impressive. During a start, SELA makes it possible to temporarily compress the motorcycle's front suspension, reducing its tendency to wheelie under acceleration — optimizing rear wheel traction and allowing the rider to be more aggressive with the throttle and launch down the start straight with greater control.

Smart Design, Broad Compatibility

ProTaper engineered the SELA not just to be innovative, but to be practical right out of the box. Its unique, modular design allows SELA to be installed on most full-size, late-model motocross bikes, and a dual-hinged receiver ring makes for quick and convenient installation without removing the front wheel or fork. The unique, single-SKU design allows for installation on most full-size, late-model motocross bikes — meaning one part covers a wide range of popular platforms.

Once the gate drops and the bike accelerates, the locking mechanism holds the compressed fork in place, then releases in the first turn when the brakes are applied and the bike compresses, allowing the device to unhook and return the suspension to its original state. The transition back to full suspension travel is seamless, so the SELA never interferes with mid-race handling.

Why Choose ProTaper for Your Holeshot Device?

ProTaper has long been a trusted name in performance moto components, and the SELA reflects that engineering pedigree. The self-engaged twist-dial mechanism is a genuine industry first — no more crouching awkwardly at the line waiting for a pit crew member to smash your forks down on command. Whether you're a privateer, a weekend racer, or a seasoned pro practicing gate starts solo at home, the SELA levels the playing field in a meaningful way.

Explore the complete ProTaper brand lineup to discover more performance-driven moto products, or browse all available holeshot devices to compare your options and find the right launch assist for your bike.