Pingree To Be Honored

Legends and Heroes Tour to Honor David Pingree at Anaheim Supercross this Weekend

By Press Release January 19, 2018 1

It’s always neat to see how our sport has evolved over the years and The Legends and Heroes Tour showcases just that. This weekend at the A2 Anaheim Supercross, The Legends and Heroes Tour will honor racer David Pingree, who’s played a pivotal role in shaping the motocross/supercross industry into what it is today, and we’ll be there live and in person. The tour also displays a plethora of moto-history with bikes, gear and other memorabilia that transport visitors back in time through the history of the sport. Definitely something to check out if you ever find yourself at the races.

Begin Press Release:

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HOUSTON, TX – January 18, 2018 – The Legend and Heroes Tour, the only traveling motocross and supercross museum in the country, is pleased to announce that they will Supercross and Motocross legend David Pingree this Saturday night at round three of the Monster Energy Supercross series in Anaheim, California.

The Tour stands behind the belief that “We Don’t Leave History Behind” and has kept the founding fathers, and mothers, pure in their thoughts by honoring the men and women that shaped supercross and motocross into what it is today. Each honoree receives a special commemorative plaque during a special podium presentation on the stadium floor before opening ceremonies.

About David Pingree

Growing up in Montana far away from the hustle and bustle of the SoCal motocross scene, few thought David Pingree would go on to accomplish the racing successes he did. In a professional career that spanned from 1993 to 2004 “Ping” was able to score 71 top 10 finishes in motocross and supercross competition. His first win came as a member of Mitch Payton’s Pro Circuit Kawasaki team in San Jose, CA in 1995 and the last win of his career came in 2002 in Anaheim, CA as the first American rider to win a supercross on a KTM. During his career, Pingree finished in the Top 5 in the points standings five times including third overall in 1995 and second overall in 2000.

Following his supercross and motocross career, Pingree found success in Supermoto racing winning several races and an X-Games medal along the way. His Supermoto career transitioned into a team manager position with the Troy Lee Designs Racing team where he ran the team for several years at its inception.

Today Pingree is a Firefighter/Paramedic in California and continues to be a part of motocross and supercross by writing columns and special features as an Editor-at-Large for RacerX.

With nearly 5000 square feet of display space, the Legends and Heroes Tour is a definite must-see during the Pit Party at a supercross near you. The mobile museum features walk-through display videos that allow our guests the opportunity to take a trip back to back to where the sport began. The videos show the heroes of the sport from the beginning of their careers to the races that made them famous. New to the tour in 2018 is the Supercross Virtual Reality Station (SXVR) where guests can experience the thrill of supercross via VR technology and feel like they are on the racetrack. Guests are also encouraged to stop by early and pick up a complimentary copy of RacerX magazine while supplies last. And thanks to our local friends at each round, the Legends Tour features some of the best vintage motocross bikes on display in a single location. Featuring different vehicles at each round, our guests can relive the machines of their youth and show their family and friends the early days of motocross and supercross.

Husqvarna - Old School

 January 19, 2018

Twisting the night away dancing salsa or samba was never my kind of thing. No, I'd rather be doing it dirty in the dunes - preferably on a Husky-engined bike. Come with me back to 1967 and follow me through the desert - just 18-years-old and newly-graduated, I came Stateside to dance around in the Mojave. Surfers and blondes, step aside!

Early May, after graduating from high school, it was party time. I was out for an adventure and planned to start the following morning – a trip to the US Indy 500. But first, I had a few drinks and ended up in Hotel Foresta, outside Stockholm city. As it turned out, the Beach Boys were on tour in my home-town and we hit the very same bar in the wee hours of the night. Talking to Brian and Dennis Wilson, the subject soon got onto cars - a favourite topic. I proudly told them that I would drive a Shelby-Mustang press car for three weeks in California, but they were unimpressed: "It's a slow car”, they said unanimously, “we prefer the Shelby sports car, which is a lot faster". True, but then I did drive the supercharged version, which produced an awesome 450 horsepower, more than enough power for a poor graduate. After Dennis signed my college cap, we parted ways and they wished me good luck on my Surfin' Safari.

I had been invited to Los Angeles after helping a lost American media man in Sweden, the previous year. "Why don't you come visit me in Pasadena?” he’d asked. “Be my guest and stay as long as you want". Such a nice proposal couldn’t be rejected and Lynn Wineland was the kind journalist who would take care of me.

Being a true Californian, he had broad shoulders and pale-blue eyes, having spent his youth surfing - just the way the yanks do as a lifestyle here. He also had access to one of the first Husqvarna motocross machines that were imported to the United States. "Why don't we enter you in a race?" he asked matter-of-factly. Being open to new things, I agreed without hesitation. "I'll take you to the Mojave for the weekend." Lynn promised.

Like many epic trails, the Mojave Desert was an old Indian trade-route. The Indians lived here along the Colorado River, following tracks that guaranteed water. Then the Americans moved west. Kit Carson came this way to reach the Mexican Pueblos. Gold was found, and people went crazy.

Gold or not, the Mojave was an early route that brought pioneers to California. The soil is unique and much of the countryside is the same now as it was once found. The Mojave consists of sand mixed with gravel basins, potholes and salt flats. It is a vast, arid region in south eastern California and you'll see cat claws grow along the arroyos. Trees are few, the exception being the Joshua, which is a yucca.

We left early Sunday morning, it was pitch black outside. Stopping for breakfast - American style - scrambled eggs, hash browns, bacon, toast and hot coffee. Yummy, not like yoghurt and cereal back home! Getting close to nature, we watched the sun come up over the horizon. Unforgettable. To me, this was the Wild West, which is America to Europeans. The desert lives with its fate and has its own rules. Water means everything, or better still, the lack of it. In fact, an oasis is all that is on your mind despite all the bike fun. For it will get hot out there, and it gets dusty and your throat is going to be clogged, nearly as bad as your carburettor.

I didn’t realise at first but I had been entered into a cross-country event - a free-for-all invitation. Before I knew what was happening, I was straddling a brand new 250cc Husky, about to compete with a few hundred race fans in the desert. Among them, the rising star J. N. Roberts who was also Husqvarna-mounted. We were the only two guys riding the Swedish brand this Sunday.

The Mojave Preserve is huge, empty and with little service available. "Take plenty of emergency rations, extra water and fill up your gas tank". I did the opposite, thinking back to the same advice mentioned in Australia when I was riding a bike towards the Kakadu National Park; “Bring water and petrol into the outback” – I did the opposite. When young, you’re indestructible.

Feeling lost among these riders ready to race, I missed the start, realizing too late it was time to go. Being late, I flew away eating dust and sand from the back of the field while J. N. was up front. I bounced around battling for control while adrenalin pumped through my veins.

Small, bumpy hills are a blast to cover and I went as fast as I dared over rocks where vision was poor. Driving full throttle over blind obstacles may not be my favourite game, but here I had a short time to enjoy the world's most enjoyable toy, so I gambled. The engine revved out when airborne, the power peaked in a crescendo and the rear weight caused the front-end to rise into the air. I wouldn't want to do a somersault here - better keep out of trouble, they weren’t my wheels after all.

A small breeze of hot and dry air flowed through my helmet and felt like a river of wind. I saw a long left-hander coming up and dropped down to 3rd gear. The Husky went wide and I tried holding the broadside throughout the curve. It is said that this trail still brings out the best and worst in people, being such a dangerous stretch. Picnickers should stay at home, as travelling here is unforgiving. Be it a sandstorm or a whirlwind, the climate is going to set you back a few pounds when you’re sweating.

The race in the sand was over in a little over half-an-hour. I had been chasing jack rabbits more than racing, but I competed, did some wheelies and crossed the finish, proud to have made it. Some guides predict you can die out here, maybe that’s what made my trip so challenging. What an adventure for an 18-year-old teenager!

I've been to Bonneville, rode a bike around Australia and driven to 14 countries within 24 hours - a Guinness Record. But riding the Husqvarna in Mojave tickled my fancy, because the machine was fast and furious. The experience will stay with me for the rest of my life. Oh, the race results? J.N. Roberts crossed the line before anyone else. Myself, I came last. Hurt, but not injured. So, a Husqvarna at both ends of the results sheet - 50 years ago!

2018 Prairie City GP

Australian Test of 2018 KTM EXC-F

Review: 2018 KTM 500 EXC-F

Section: Reviews Post: Alex Gobert

 2018 KTM 500 EXC-F.

Words: Guy Streeter

For 2018 much of the noise from KTM has been around the Austrian brand’s groundbreaking TPI two-stroke models, which is fine, because in 2017 KTM made a fair impact with its entire four-stroke range that made a lasting impression. As the KTM 500 EXC-F had been completely redesigned from the ground up last year, with the mantra behind the new design being ‘lighter, faster, stronger’, it is safe to say that KTM knocked it out of the park at five kilograms lighter, with 63hp and boasting significant race results around the world. This time around, KTM didn’t need to reinvent the wheel, so it was all about refining the 500 EXC-F. What you’ll find here are subtle tweaks that make the 2018 KTM 500 EXC-F that much better.

Image: Alex Gobert (Foremost Media).

Where we rode:
We loaded up and headed to a private farm on the door step of Belanglo State Forest to meet up with KTM Australia representatives, getting a feel for the 2018 KTM 500 EXC-F and the updates from the 2017 models. An epic grass track with plenty of twists and turns, along with fast, open corners was really fun on the 500, but the tighter corners sure came up quick. With the farm situated almost within the forest, it was only a quick ride to some pretty cool, loamy single-trail within the pines.

Image: Alex Gobert (Foremost Media).

Tech features:
KTM has improved its cooling system, which routes the coolant from the cyclinder-head through the frame triangle directly to the radiators, also featuring new radiator protectors. The radiator protectors help improve heat dissipation, as well as add protection in the event of a crash. WP has revised the internals of the WP XPlor 48 forks and PDS shock absorber, while the forks also received new outer fork tubes that were carried over from the SX-F models. Combined with the updated factory settings that provide improved sensitivity and damping, a sealed hydro-stop guarantees excellent resistance to pushing through the entire 300mm of travel and bottoming out. A few things that we really appreciate that carry over from the 2017 model are the Brembo brakes and hydraulic clutch. On top of that, the air-box design is user-friendly and it’s easier to access with a multi-directional filter cage that gives a better seal than past variants. The opaque 8.5-litre fuel tank with its integrated fuel pump not only looks trick, but is functional as well. No dirt foot-pegs and gear-shifters are a great touch – a design to prevent problems out on the trail, which is going to benefit your riding experience at some point down the track. The ODI Lock-on grips make things a little easier when replacing and overall they’re just a good finishing touch. One aspect that still looks a little odd to me is the lack of a kick-starter, however with the improvement of technology, they are going to be a thing of the past very soon – it certainly is on the 500 EXC-F.

Image: Alex Gobert (Foremost Media).

Motor characteristics:
There is something enjoyable about scaring yourself enough, but while still being able to enjoy it, and the KTM 500 EXC-F does that for sure. With 63hp, it doesn’t take much to twist the throttle a little more than your talent can accommodate and you will most definitely understand what you’re working with, but that is the fun bit, right? With so much power for open trails, the corners come up plenty quick, although it is relatively smooth on throttle application so it’s manageable in building up to speed. The 500 EXC-F sports a six-speed transmission with tailor-made ratios, while a clever gear-sensor adjusts the engine’s power curve to the selected gear, as well as the trail surface. KTM has developed a traction control and a mapping switch for the entire off-road range, which can be purchased separately and fitted very easily through the PowerParts catalogue. The 500 EXC-F makes the most out of this function, making the bike more rider-friendly in either tougher and tight or wet and muddy conditions.

Image: Alex Gobert (Foremost Media).

Chassis feedback:
As mentioned, KTM started from the ground up with a complete redesign in 2017. With that, engineers were able to make the engine more compact, which allowed the Austrians to make the frame and chassis smaller as well, centralising its overall mass. Bringing everything closer to the centre of the bike has improved handling, which really seems to be the trend with all manufacturers at the moment. The improvement on the EXC-F chassis is probably highlighted most of all on the 500, as it is a slightly heavier bike than its siblings at 106.5kg with the larger engine capacity. The Chrome-molybdenum steel central-tube frame itself has been improved for better rider feedback and to help limit fatigue as much as possible by changing the rigidity of the frame, both side-to-side and front-to-back, which provides better absorption and flex. In terms of the suspension, WP has hit the nail somewhat close to the head, because the package works great and with a few minor changes from last year’s model, the 2018 is even better. Improvements made have had a direct impact on the performance and handling of the bike in a positive way, although more seat time would always be a benefit in these instances.

Image: Alex Gobert (Foremost Media).

Final thoughts:
Overall the 2018 KTM 500 EXC-F is exceptional and there isn’t really anything that comes close in class aside from the similar-make Husqvarna. The finish of the bike itself, its weight, huge power and precise handling are all what you come to expect from the Austrian manufacturer. A bash-plate would probably be one of the first things to add on, plus we didn’t get to ride the 2018 with a traction control switch, however we did on the 2017 model. That was one thing that really made a big difference on the big-bore four-stroke, as the ability to change the characteristics of the motor on the fly was really noticeable and helped tame the power through the tighter trails. Indirectly, it made muscling the bike around that little bit easier, which helped with fatigue and we could hold onto it longer. Suspension-wise, a preload adjuster can also be fitted to allow for simple spring pre-load adjustment without the use of tools.

All in all the 2018 KTM 500 EXC-F is an amazing bike, with more power than you know what to do with. It handles brilliantly at only 106.5kgs (plus fuel), the WP XPlor 48 fork paired with the rear shock works a treat, its overall bodywork, finish and feel of the bike is first-class. It comes in at a recommended retail price of $14,495 plus on-roads – $200 more than last year – and is now available at dealerships across the country.

Section: Reviews Post: Alex Gobert

MotoOnline.com.au tests the 2018 KTM 500 EXC-F.

Words: Guy Streeter

For 2018 much of the noise from KTM has been around the Austrian brand’s groundbreaking TPI two-stroke models, which is fine, because in 2017 KTM made a fair impact with its entire four-stroke range that made a lasting impression. As the KTM 500 EXC-F had been completely redesigned from the ground up last year, with the mantra behind the new design being ‘lighter, faster, stronger’, it is safe to say that KTM knocked it out of the park at five kilograms lighter, with 63hp and boasting significant race results around the world. This time around, KTM didn’t need to reinvent the wheel, so it was all about refining the 500 EXC-F. What you’ll find here are subtle tweaks that make the 2018 KTM 500 EXC-F that much better.

Image: Alex Gobert (Foremost Media).

Where we rode:
We loaded up and headed to a private farm on the door step of Belanglo State Forest to meet up with KTM Australia representatives, getting a feel for the 2018 KTM 500 EXC-F and the updates from the 2017 models. An epic grass track with plenty of twists and turns, along with fast, open corners was really fun on the 500, but the tighter corners sure came up quick. With the farm situated almost within the forest, it was only a quick ride to some pretty cool, loamy single-trail within the pines.

Image: Alex Gobert (Foremost Media).

Tech features:
KTM has improved its cooling system, which routes the coolant from the cyclinder-head through the frame triangle directly to the radiators, also featuring new radiator protectors. The radiator protectors help improve heat dissipation, as well as add protection in the event of a crash. WP has revised the internals of the WP XPlor 48 forks and PDS shock absorber, while the forks also received new outer fork tubes that were carried over from the SX-F models. Combined with the updated factory settings that provide improved sensitivity and damping, a sealed hydro-stop guarantees excellent resistance to pushing through the entire 300mm of travel and bottoming out. A few things that we really appreciate that carry over from the 2017 model are the Brembo brakes and hydraulic clutch. On top of that, the air-box design is user-friendly and it’s easier to access with a multi-directional filter cage that gives a better seal than past variants. The opaque 8.5-litre fuel tank with its integrated fuel pump not only looks trick, but is functional as well. No dirt foot-pegs and gear-shifters are a great touch – a design to prevent problems out on the trail, which is going to benefit your riding experience at some point down the track. The ODI Lock-on grips make things a little easier when replacing and overall they’re just a good finishing touch. One aspect that still looks a little odd to me is the lack of a kick-starter, however with the improvement of technology, they are going to be a thing of the past very soon – it certainly is on the 500 EXC-F.

Image: Alex Gobert (Foremost Media).

Motor characteristics:
There is something enjoyable about scaring yourself enough, but while still being able to enjoy it, and the KTM 500 EXC-F does that for sure. With 63hp, it doesn’t take much to twist the throttle a little more than your talent can accommodate and you will most definitely understand what you’re working with, but that is the fun bit, right? With so much power for open trails, the corners come up plenty quick, although it is relatively smooth on throttle application so it’s manageable in building up to speed. The 500 EXC-F sports a six-speed transmission with tailor-made ratios, while a clever gear-sensor adjusts the engine’s power curve to the selected gear, as well as the trail surface. KTM has developed a traction control and a mapping switch for the entire off-road range, which can be purchased separately and fitted very easily through the PowerParts catalogue. The 500 EXC-F makes the most out of this function, making the bike more rider-friendly in either tougher and tight or wet and muddy conditions.

Image: Alex Gobert (Foremost Media).

Chassis feedback:
As mentioned, KTM started from the ground up with a complete redesign in 2017. With that, engineers were able to make the engine more compact, which allowed the Austrians to make the frame and chassis smaller as well, centralising its overall mass. Bringing everything closer to the centre of the bike has improved handling, which really seems to be the trend with all manufacturers at the moment. The improvement on the EXC-F chassis is probably highlighted most of all on the 500, as it is a slightly heavier bike than its siblings at 106.5kg with the larger engine capacity. The Chrome-molybdenum steel central-tube frame itself has been improved for better rider feedback and to help limit fatigue as much as possible by changing the rigidity of the frame, both side-to-side and front-to-back, which provides better absorption and flex. In terms of the suspension, WP has hit the nail somewhat close to the head, because the package works great and with a few minor changes from last year’s model, the 2018 is even better. Improvements made have had a direct impact on the performance and handling of the bike in a positive way, although more seat time would always be a benefit in these instances.

Image: Alex Gobert (Foremost Media).

Final thoughts:
Overall the 2018 KTM 500 EXC-F is exceptional and there isn’t really anything that comes close in class aside from the similar-make Husqvarna. The finish of the bike itself, its weight, huge power and precise handling are all what you come to expect from the Austrian manufacturer. A bash-plate would probably be one of the first things to add on, plus we didn’t get to ride the 2018 with a traction control switch, however we did on the 2017 model. That was one thing that really made a big difference on the big-bore four-stroke, as the ability to change the characteristics of the motor on the fly was really noticeable and helped tame the power through the tighter trails. Indirectly, it made muscling the bike around that little bit easier, which helped with fatigue and we could hold onto it longer. Suspension-wise, a preload adjuster can also be fitted to allow for simple spring pre-load adjustment without the use of tools.

All in all the 2018 KTM 500 EXC-F is an amazing bike, with more power than you know what to do with. It handles brilliantly at only 106.5kgs (plus fuel), the WP XPlor 48 fork paired with the rear shock works a treat, its overall bodywork, finish and feel of the bike is first-class. It comes in at a recommended retail price of $14,495 plus on-roads – $200 more than last year – and is now available at dealerships across the country.

Stage 12 Cancelled

Cancellation of Dakar stage 12 dents Price’s chances

Section: Competition Post: Alex Gobert

One less opportunity for leading Australian to catch Walkner.

Image: Supplied.

Stage 12 of the 2018 Dakar Rally was cancelled overnight due to safety concerns raised by the riders at the end of the previous day, leaving just two days of competitive action remaining for this year.

In a similar situation to the cancelled stage nine, motorcycle riders made their way untimed from Fiambala to San Juan. The stage was scheduled to have the bikes follow the cars and trucks into the timed special. This, combined with the terrain and how it would be affected by the vehicles in front, was deemed too dangerous.

For Australia’s Toby Price (Red Bull KTM) – winner of the 2016 edition – he is currently third following his win on stage 11, but is near 40 minutes in arrears of teammate and current leader Matthias Walkner. Every wheel turned will count toward his chances of victory.

“Yesterday’s stage went really well and it’s nice to get my first win at this year’s event,” Price commented. “It helps a little for the time lost the previous day too. We started off behind some cars and trucks, which adds a little excitement. It was a 280km special and I tried to push for the whole way – it paid off because I was fastest to every waypoint.

“I’m sitting third, which doesn’t sound too bad, but I’m still down quite a lot of time on Matthias. With the cancellation of today’s stage, it means even less of a chance to try and catch up. Tomorrow, stage 13 is the longest of the event though and anything can happen on this rally as we have already seen. All I can do is keep pushing and aim for a good finish on Saturday.”

With one day less to ride, Walkner took a step closer to claiming his first-ever overall Dakar victory. Sitting at the top of the leaderboard, 32-minutes up on his nearest rival Kevin Benavides (Monster Energy Honda), the Austrian still needs to perform well on the remaining two stages to secure a winning result.

Stage 13 of the 2018 Dakar Rally from San Juan to the city of Cordoba is the longest of the event. A 483km liaison combined with a 424km timed special will really test the endurance of the riders. Starting in the sand dunes surrounding San Juan, the route will take competitors through an area of fesh-fesh and conclude on the fast WRC-style tracks on the way into Cordoba.

Dakar...Walkner closes in on win

Walkner closes in on win

Posted on January 18, 2018

After a cancelled stage 12, Matthias Walkner maintains his 2018 Dakar Rally lead with an advantage of more than 30-minutes over his nearest competitor. Team-mates Toby Price and Antoine Meo are hot on his heels in third and fifth respectively. KTM Factory Racing’s Laia Sanz is holding onto a very strong 13th in the provisional rankings.

The 12th stage of the 2018 Dakar Rally was cancelled due to safety concerns raised by the riders at the end of stage 11. In a similar situation to the cancelled stage nine, motorcycle and quad riders made their way untimed from Fiambalá to San Juan. The stage was scheduled to have the bikes follow the cars and trucks into the timed special. This, combined with the terrain and how it would be affected by the vehicles in front, was deemed too dangerous and the organisers heeded to the riders’ wishes and cancelled the stage.

With one day less to ride, Matthias Walkner took a step closer to claiming his first ever overall Dakar victory. The Austrian, fit and ready for the stages ahead is feeling confident with only two more days to go. Sitting at the top of the leader board, 32-minutes up on his nearest rival Kevin Benavides, Walkner still needs to perform well on the remaining two stages to secure a winning result.

Matthias Walkner: “My feeling going into the final couple of stages of the rally is quite good. Tomorrow will be tough and very long, there is a lot of off-piste at the beginning of the stage and then some really fast tracks towards the end. My start position is good so I’m hoping for a solid day tomorrow, I’ll do my best and see where that gets me.

“It was good fun yesterday riding with the cars. I tried to catch Peterhansel as soon as I could and managed to see him at about 70km into the stage. I succeeded to get in front but then he passed me again so we ended up travelling together for most of the stage. It helped me a lot because navigation on the stage was tough and I wanted to really minimise any mistakes so following a car was sensible. It was an honour to ride with ‘Mr Dakar’ himself, too."

Toby Price won the previous day’s stage 11, the opening leg of the second marathon stage. Price put in a dominating performance to take the win by a minute-and-a-half over the runner-up and gain over 10-minutes on his team-mate and standings leader, Walkner.

Toby Price: “Yesterday’s stage went really well, it’s nice to get my first win at this year’s event. It helps a little for the time lost the previous day, too. We started off behind some cars and trucks, which adds a little excitement. It was a 280km special and I tried to push for the whole way – it paid off because I was fastest to every waypoint. I’m sitting third, which doesn’t sound too bad, but I’m still down quite a lot of time on Matthias. With the cancellation of today’s stage, it means even less of a chance to try and catch up. Tomorrow, stage 13 is the longest of the event though and anything can happen on this rally as we have already seen. All I can do is keep pushing and aim for a good finish on Saturday.”

Also enjoying stage 11, right up to a large crash 10km from the finish, Antoine Meo still managed to move further up the overall rankings to fifth. Like Price, Meo is running out of time if he wants to improve that position further, but there are well over 500km of special stages left to race and Meo will be trying to make the most of every one.

Antoine Meo: “Yesterday went really well for me, I pushed hard right from the beginning and was making up good time. Unfortunately, I crashed a little way from the finish. It was quite a big crash but luckily I came out of it in one piece and the bike was not too badly damaged. I am a little disappointed that today’s stage was cancelled, it makes it harder for me to make up time on the guys in front. At the same time, it was looking quite dangerous out there and I think the organisers made the right decision. I’ll go into tomorrow’s stage 13 looking to push as hard as I can and hopefully get another good result.”

Laia Sanz suffered her second big crash of the rally yesterday. Picking herself up, the Spaniard made it to the finish in a commendable 18th place. Her performance moved he further up the standings – the multiple world champion now sits in an excellent 13th overall.

Laia Sanz: “It was a really hard day for me yesterday. I started in the second group behind cars and truck and personally I think it was too dangerous. I was stuck in the dust of a truck in front and it was too difficult to overtake it safely. Towards the end of the stage I was so exhausted and ended up having another crash. Luckily, I wasn’t injured and made it to the bivouac ok, but today I am feeling a little sore. I am glad the stage today was cancelled, it has given me a chance to rest and prepare myself for the last two days.”

Jordi Viladoms – KTM Rally Sport Manager: “The plan today was to initially ride the stage after the cars and trucks, which is a little bit dangerous for the riders. The organisers listened to the concerns raised and made the right decision to cancel the special. The terrain of stage 12 would have proved difficult anyway, but after the larger vehicles had gone through it would have been too treacherous for the bikes. We are glad that rider safety was put above everything else. With two more stages to race, we are very happy with how things are going – obviously Matthias is in a very good position, but both Toby and Antoine can still catch the guys in front of them so we’ll see what happens over the next couple of days.”

Tomorrow’s stage 13 of the 2018 Dakar Rally from San Juan to the city of Córdoba is the longest of the event. A 483km liaison combined with a 424km timed special will really test the endurance of the riders. Starting in the sand dunes surrounding San Juan, the route will take competitors through an area of fesh-fesh and conclude on the fast WRC-style tracks on the way into Córdoba. Navigation will again be important, but overall physical fitness in the Argentinian heat will be key.

Provisional Standings after cancelled Stage 12 – 2018 Dakar Rally

1. Matthias Walkner (AUT), KTM, 36:33:37

2. Kevin Benavides (ARG), Honda, 37:05:37 +32:00

3. Toby Price (AUT), KTM, 37:12:54 +39:17

4. Gerard Farres (ESP), KTM, 37:22:54 +49:17

5. Antoine Meo (FRA), KTM, 37:32:42 +59:05

Dakar...Price Closes

Price closes on Walkner

Posted on January 18, 2018

Toby Price has fought back from yesterday’s disappointing result to dominate stage 11 of the 2018 Dakar Rally. Antoine Meo put in another superb performance to post the third fastest time for the day while Matthias Walkner placed fifth to retain his position at the top of the provisional overall standings.

Today was the first leg of the second marathon stage at this year’s Dakar Rally. The Super Fiambalá as it has come to be known was a 280km special through the Argentinian dunes with scorching temperatures reaching over 40 degrees. Similar to yesterday’s stage, navigation was massively important as was the ability to conserve machinery as no mechanical help could be provided at the bivouac.

Toby Price was one of those riders who lost their way on yesterday’s stage 10. Riding hard to make up time on today’s stage, Price led the special from start to finish. This dominant performance moves the Australian up to third in the provisional standings, albeit close to 40-minutes down on the leader, team-mate Matthias Walkner.

Like Price, Antoine Meo was suffering from a late start position due to his result from stage 10. The Frenchman rode superbly all day battling for the runner-up spot right until the flag. A small mistake cost Meo a few minutes but the former Enduro World Champion was still able to claim third place and also improve his position in the provisional standings to fifth.

Matthias Walkner opened the road for the bikes and with stage 11 being a mixed start, the Austrian had to contend with some of the leading cars on the tracks, too. Riding consistently and again concentrating on his navigation, Walkner rode to a strong fifth place – 11 minutes down on his team-mate and winner of the stage, Toby Price. Despite losing a little time today to his rivals, the former Cross-Country Rallies World Champion still holds a comfortable advantage at the top of the standings, 32-minutes ahead of second-placed Kevin Benavides.

Matthias Walkner: “Things went pretty well for me today. I was a little nervous because I didn’t want to go wrong anywhere and lose all of the time that I gained yesterday. The stage was good, but my pace could have been a little better. I didn’t really want to end up making a mistake by pushing too hard though. I got stuck behind one of the cars later on in the stage and didn’t want to risk overtaking so that cost me a few seconds. Overall, I am feeling really good, my body is getting used to all the strain now. There are just three days to go, so I’ll keep focused and carry on.”

Leading female competitor Laia Sanz had another good day astride her KTM 450 RALLY. The Spaniard, riding sensibly and concentrating on hitting each waypoint, maintained a good pace throughout the timed special to finish in a very solid 18th place.

Stage 12 of the 2018 Dakar Rally, the second leg of the final marathon stage, will again test both rider and machine. Following a night in the bivouac with no team-assistance riders will leave Fiambalá and head for San Juan. Conserving both machine and energy will be extremely important on this 723km stage. A long 375km timed special will require good navigational and supreme physical endurance in the Argentinian heat. Winding its way through the dirt tracks and riverbeds of the San Juan region, the route could bring even more changes to the current running order.

Provisional Results Stage 11 – 2018 Dakar Rally

1. Toby Price (AUT), KTM, 4:01:33

2. Kevin Benavides (ARG), Honda, 4:03:11 +1:38

3. Antoine Meo (FRA), KTM, 4:08:04 +6:31

4. Ricky Brabec (USA), Honda, 4:09:07 +7:34

5. Matthias Walkner (AUT), KTM, 4:12:34 +11:01

Cody Cooper On A Run

Cody Cooper wants to be the man firing the shots

ANDY MCGECHAN/BIKESPORTNZ.COM

Mount Maunganui's Cody Cooper (Honda) is the favourite to again win at the Honda NZ Grand Prix at Woodville this year.

MOTOCROSS: It's tough when you have a big No.1 plastered over the front and sides of your motorcycle – everyone has you in their gun sights, wants to shoot you down and take that title away.

Bay of Plenty's national MX1 motocross champion Cody Cooper can feel the pressure, although it's something he's become accustomed to over the past few years, and he is determined that it will be he who is "firing the bullets" at this year's Honda New Zealand Motocross Grand Prix at Woodville, coming up on the weekend of January 27-28.

The man from Mount Maunganui has won the main title at the Woodville GP on two occasions in the past, in 2007 and again in 2014, and he has realistic ambitions to make it a third win this season. 

He has also won the premier MX1 class at Woodville on several other occasions, although the past three years have seen Australian visitors win the event's namesake feature trophy – Kirk Gibbs taking it in 2015 and Dean Ferris in 2016 and 2017 – and that's something that Cooper aims to rectify this time around.

For each of the past five years, Cooper has moved on after Woodville to win the national MX1 crown and the 34-year-old has plans again to do that again this year, the four-round 2018 New Zealand Motocross Championships kicking off in Taranaki just a week after Woodville, on February 4.

But first there's the little matter of winning the NZ GP title.

Cooper loves racing at Woodville and his build-up to the event has been going according to plan, with him winning the MX1 class at the Waikato Motocross Championships in November and then the Auckland Motocross Championships a couple of weeks after that, before going on to dominate MX1 at the big annual Honda Summercross in Whakatane just after Christmas.

Cooper has some huge heavy hitters lining up against him at Woodville again this year and they too are expected to be faster and fitter than ever before.

Cooper would like nothing better than to become a rare three-time feature trophy winner at the iconic event.

Only five riders have won at Woodville three times or more in the past – Taranaki brothers Shayne King (an incredible 9-time Woodville winner) and Darryll King (5-time winner), Motueka's Josh Coppins (5-time winner), Tauranga's Peter Ploen (3) and Pahiatua's Ken Cleghorn (3).

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It is interesting to note that, while plenty of international visitors have won the event in the past, Kiwi riders are world class too and it is home-grown New Zealand riders who have dominated over the years.

Queenslander Gibbs won the main trophy at Woodville in 2015 after a massive battle with Cooper and, in winning that feature race, Gibbs became the first non-Kiwi in 25 years to claim the coveted New Zealand GP crown. American Willie Surratt won there in 1989 and that was the previous time that a non-Kiwi had won at Woodville.

KTM rider Gibbs is back again this season, here for Woodville and the national championship series that follows, and he is definitely one rider who will be a thorn in Cooper's side.

Kiwi internationals such as Mangakino's Kayne Lamont, Taupo's Brad Groombridge, Mount Maunganui's Rhys Carter and Takapuna's Hamish Harwood, to name just a few, have good reason to fancy their chances too.

Racing over the two days at Woodville caters for minis, juniors, women and veterans, with two 10-minute vintage motocross bike races an additional feature of Sdaturday's programme this year.

The novelty river race on Sunday is also a major crowd-pleaser.

Revlimiter Extreme Enduro highlights

A look at the carnage that came about during the start of Race 2 from the 2018 Revlimiter Extreme Enduro.

The start of Race 2 funneled the competitors directly up the AOMC BraapCoin Hill. THey had come down this hill earlier, but this time they had to make their way up the rocky uphill.

David Knight was in the lead as the first five racers made the right hand turn toward the hill. Knighter rode his 2018 GasGas XC 300 straight up the hill, with little trouble. Jordan Ashburn and Cory Graffunder went to follow his line up the right side fo the hill, but Ashburn faltered, causing Graffunder to falter as well. Cody Webb jumped the middle rocks to work his way up the left side of the hill. From there, chaos ensued.

This is what Extreme Enduro is all about. You want to be fast enough to be on an early row, so a mishap by a rider doesn't slow you down when you come up behind them.

Cody Webb wound up winning all the Races at the 2018 Revlimiter Extreme Enduro, Cory Graffunder was second and Jordan Ashburn was third. More videos coming, subscribe and turn your alerts on.

Dakar Stage 10

Gerard Farrés makes the most of the great Argentinian trap

• The HIMOINSA Team leader shocks the race after Dakar 2018’s most complex stage, and gets straight into the fight for the podium.

January 16th, 2018

Belén (Argentina). After the transitionary day which took the Dakar caravan from Bolivia to Argentina, the race was resumed with one of the most complex stages in this 40th edition of the toughest motorsports event in the world.

Extreme navigation and some treacherous terrain has caused a true revolution among all the favorites. A scenario in which experience and impeccable technique allowed Gerard Farrés to shine bright and ride an exceptional stage. Despite struggling during the first part of the special to keep up with the very high pace of the official motorcycles, has applied all his knowledge in navigation and as well as the aeronautical techniques he was taught by the team director, Lieutenant Colonel of the Air Force, Miguel Puertas, to finish third on the day and take a giant leap in the general classification climbing up to fourth position.

Like Farrés, the rest of the HIMOINSA Team riders stood out in this very complicated stage, with Dani Oliveras in eighth position, Marc Solà, sixteenth and Iván Cervantes in 24th place. Meanwhile, Rosa Romero continues unstoppable quest towards Córdoba’s finish line and has completed a new stage.

Gerard Farrés (@gerardfarres): “It was a very complicated day and from the beginning I knew that it was going to take a lot of work to keep up with the factory bikes. However, I stayed calm and tried to manage my race, blindly trusting in my navigation and applying everything I have learned with our director, Miguel Puertas, including orientation techniques used by fighter pilots to navigate through clouds. This technique, when it was very difficult to read the terrain, has helped me enormously to reach the finish line without making any mistakes. I am very happy to enter the fight for the podium, but still nothing is decided and there are still very complicated days ahead.”

Classification: Stage 10 (provisional *)

1st M. Walkner (4: 52.26)

2nd P. Quintanilla (+11.35)

3rd Gerard Farrés (+16.21)

8th Dani Oliveras (+25.25)

17th Marc Solà (+41.36)

24th Iván Cervantes (+56.01)