DAKAR 2023 PREVIEW

 

The 45th edition of the Dakar Rally starts tomorrow and Americans have become a serious threat to win. U.S. riders are also likely to have more riders in the top 10 than any other country. Ricky Brabec, Skyler Howes, Mason Klein and Jacob Argubright are the most high profile, but there are a total of 11 Americans this year. Kyle McCoy, Paul Neff, David Pearson, James Pearson and Morrison Hart joined forces on the American Rally Original team. All will compete in the “Original By Motul” class, formerly known as Malle Moto, where the riders receive little to no outside assistance.

The event will be held over 14 stages of racing with competitors covering a total distance of over 8500 kilometers along the way. Around 4700 of those kilometers will be raced against the clock in timed specials and single prologue qualifier. Following the first eight full stages, riders will enjoy a rest day in Riyadh before taking on the final six stages leading to the rally finish at Dammam on January 15.

There are several significant rules changes for 2023. A system of time bonuses is now in place to reward the bikers who “open the road” on each stage. The bonus sections are in place during the first 200km of the timed special stage. It will be possible for a rider to have a total of five minutes deducted from their daily time if they lead the way throughout the opening 200km. It’s a huge prize to aim for, but also comes with a massive amount of risk – with no tracks to follow the chances of getting lost is bound to increase.

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