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Sunday
Oct022016

2016 Enduro World Championship Review 

From the dusty trails of Morocco to the deep mud of Greece, Yamaha Racing riders enjoyed an impressive 2016 Enduro World Championship season. Collecting two victories and a total of eight podium results, WR450F mounted Loic Larrieu finished 3rd in the Enduro 2 World Championship. His Outsiders Yamaha Official Enduro 2 Team partner Cristobal Guerrero wrapped up the season with 6th. Aboard their WR250F machines Mikael Persson and Jamie McCanney finished 9th and 10th respectively in Enduro1, with the latter making it to the class' podium three times. Aboard their enduro modified YZ125 machines, Valerian Debaud and Lee Sealey finished 2nd and 3rd in the Enduro Youth class of the series

Sunday
Oct022016

Haaker Takes The Win At Denver EnduroCross

 

ama endurocross championship denver 1 1000

Husqvarna’s Colton Haaker claimed a close fought win over KTM’s Cody Webb at the fifth round of the AMA EnduroCross Championship in Denver.

Denver’s Western Events Center was witness to a spectacular EnduroCross battle as Husqvarna’s Colton Haaker took a tough-fought victory over series rival Cody Webb with a second-to-last-lap pass on a long, technical and demanding course. 

KTM’s Cody Webb led nearly every lap up to the point of the deciding pass and the duo was so fast they lapped third-place finisher, Beta’s Max Gerston before the checkered flag. This podium was Gerston’s first of the year.

Haaker was the only racer in the top three championship stndings who won his heat race earlier in the evening, giving him an additional bonus point on the championship. The other heat race victories went to Haaker’s Husqvarna teammate Mike Brown and RPM KTM’s Ty Tremaine — the first heat race win of his career. 

Haaker backed up his early evening win with a blistering time in the evening hot lap—a one-lap sprint against the clock for an additional bonus point and first gate pick for the main.

ama endurocross championship denver 1000

Cody Webb’s night didn’t start as smoothly. The two-time defending champ hit the deck, hard, in the first few feet of his heat race. He was bruised but not broken and managed to fight his way into second to get into the main. Gerston finished second in his heat race behind Tremaine.

When the main event gate dropped, Haaker took his momentum straight to the first corner and the $500 Nexen Tire Holeshot award and an early lead. The speedy points leader looked like he wanted to run away. 

Close behind was Brown with Webb following in third. By the time the group was finishing the first lap, the treacherous matrix showed its teeth and grabbed Haaker, allowing Webb to move into the lead with Brown coming out in third.

In the first few laps it became clear Webb was clearing the track’s obstacles more cleanly and consistently than the rest of the field. Haaker was fast, as usual, but the nasty matrix was his nemesis and slowed him numerous times as he fought to gain ground on the defending champion. 

At one point, Webb made a mistake on the large tractor tires, hitting his kill switch with his hip and actually going backwards down the tires to make another attempt. Haaker closed the gap and was poised to make a move only to have the matrix stop him again.

During laps two through fourteen, Webb and Haaker held their one-two position and simply decimated the rest of the field, lapping third place in the process. It wasn’t until the second-to-last lap that Haaker was once again in position to make a move and Webb left the door wide open. 

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After the firewood pile, Webb wasn’t cleanly jumping into a corner where Haaker was. On lap 14, Webb went extra wide into the corner after getting off-line through the firewood. The stumble and extra room in the corner was all Haaker needed to put a wheel in and secure the first-place position. From there, the 2016 points leader raced to the finish, Webb gave it his all to finish a close second with Gerston a lap down in third.

“This one was hard,” Haaker said. “I kept messing up the matrix and Cody was nailing it. Soon, I got over making mistakes in the beginning and started racing smoother and kept on it through lappers. Then, Webb had a mistake after the firewood and I got in there. I just needed to get in front on the last lap and I’m glad I made it happen.”

“It was a great race here in Denver,” Webb said. “Honestly, it was a rough day for me after going down really hard in the heat race and had to ice both my wrists, my shoulder and tailbone and take some advil to get out here. I got an ok start in the main and knew I was nailing the matrix so when Brown and Haaker had trouble in there I made it to the front. 

“It was really crucial to jump out of the firewood tonight and I just couldn’t quite commit while I was in the lead. I knew right away Haaker jumped it and had a line on me for the lead. I was riding at the top of my game and know I could have had it tonight. After the two-week break I know I’ll be ready to be back.”

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“I am super stoked,” Gerston said. “I got off to a rough start but I was able to find some cool lines through the firewood pit and get by some guys. At that point I was in fifth and had to battle through fourth and then had to battle my teammate Kyle Redmond to get into third. We had some fun block passes and I’m just stoked to be up here at the end of the night even though I was lapped by the top two guys. I honestly don’t know how I could go any faster than I was and I was still lapped.”

Ty Tremaine had a consistent race to finish third, battling from sixth, to eighth, back up to fifth and finally making the pass for fourth on lap 12. Kyle Redmond, who raced most of the main event in third, ended up fifth. 

Mike Brown struggled with the matrix all night but still kept in the mix with a sixth place finish. Noah Kepple finished a strong seventh after a tough LCQ race full of crashes. Nick Thompson recovered from an up-and-down day to finish eighth. 

Trystan Hart broke into the top ten again with a ninth place result and GasGas’ Geoff Aaron rounded out the top ten after missing track walks and all practices due to a tight travel schedule.

Wyatt Hart, Cory Graffunder and Ty Cullins finished eleventh through thirteenth respectively.

Five-time EnduroCross Champion Taddy Blazusiak missed the Denver round due to his nagging thumb injury from round two. His team reported he would be racing the upcoming Everett, Washington round in two weeks.

Haaker’s point lead over Cody Webb grew to 12 in the championship, with 128 and 116 respectively. Brown still sits in third with 93 points.

 

Thursday
Sep292016

First Look - 2017 Husqvarna 701 Enduro & SuperMoto

Husqvarna MY17 701 ENDURO 90 degree 1 1200

Husqvarna announce upgrades to their 701 Enduro and SuperMoto range for 2017…

Husqvarna Motorcycles are proud to unveil the new 701 SUPERMOTO and 701 ENDURO, fitted with the most powerful single cylinder engine ever developed by Husqvarna delivering an additional (4.5kW) 6 hp and 3.0 Nm of torque over the previous generation while also meeting strict EURO IV emission levels. 

Always committed to innovative product development, Husqvarna have focused on introducing further advances in engine performance and reliability, while giving both new models a fresh look that remains true to the brand’s Swedish heritage.

Combining high-tech components to offer unparalleled performance, the new 701 SUPERMOTO and 701 ENDURO ensure Husqvarna riders have the perfect machinery to make the most out of any riding situation, ranging from daily commuting to adrenaline-filled on or offroad adventures.

Husqvarna MY17 701 ENDURO Action 1200

Major Advances 

Both the 701 SUPERMOTO and 701 ENDURO are equipped with a new generation Euro IV compliant single cylinder engine that features the latest technology in terms of design and electronics. With a significantly improved power output of 74 hp (55kW) at 8,000 rpm and torque of 71.0 Nm at 6,750 rpm, the 692.7cc single cylinder power plant offers class-leading performance.

With reliability a key factor, the use of innovative solutions such as the active evacuation and forced lubrication of the crankcase ensure long 10,000 km service intervals. All the latest engine advances provide an extremely low fuel consumption that along with the lengthy service intervals massively reduces the cost of ownership in the long run. 

Smooth power delivery is guaranteed by the state-of-the-art four-valve cylinder head with its twin spark ignition. With the single overhead camshaft technology allowing for more exact valve timing at higher engine speeds, Husqvarna engineers added an extra 1000 rpm of usable power to the engine. For increased comfort and less vibrations the engine also features a second counter balancer shaft.

The Keihin electronic fuel injection features a new 50 mm throttle body that has no mechanical linkage to the throttle grip and offers better throttle response and ride-ability at small throttle valve positions.

Husqvarna MY17 701 ENDURO Action 1200

Engine Highlights 

Increased power & torque of 74 hp & 71.0 Nm

An additional 1000 rpm of usable power 

Reduced oscillating masses for lower vibrations 

New intake resonator for improved response at low rpm 

Long service intervals & low fuel consumption 

Single overhead cam 

Double spark plugs 

Large bore & short stroke [105 mm & 80 mm] 

Forged aluminium piston 

Cutting edge ride-by-wire electronics 

 

701 ENDURO

Husqvarna MY17 701 ENDURO 90 degree 3 1200

The 701 ENDURO can handle both urban environments and off road terrain with ease. Equipped with the upgraded single cylinder engine, the all-new 2017 model reaches new levels of performance and versatility.

The new power plant offers an additional 1,000 rpm of usable power, which along with reduced vibrations bring single cylinder technology to the highest level. With its crisp throttle response the engine allows riders to confidently tackle off road adventures as well as their daily commute. 

Staying true to its Swedish heritage, Husqvarna have given the new 701 ENDURO a fresh look, with a white, blue and yellow colour scheme subtly enhancing the minimalistic and modern design. 

701 Enduro Benefits

Versatility & huge on road and off road capabilities

Astounding power-to-weight ratio 

Advanced electronics for smooth power delivery & sharp throttle response

Advanced safety thanks to Bosch ABS

21’’ – 18’’ high strength DID wheels

Competition-level suspension with 275 mm of travel & great adjustability 

Extensive range of accessories 

A2 licence compatible

 

701 SUPERMOTO

husqvarna 701 enduro supermoto 1 1200

Perfectly mixing the finest craftsmanship with unparalleled single cylinder performance, the 701 SUPERMOTO brings Husqvarna’s World Supermoto Championship winning pedigree into a machine that’s versatile enough to be ridden by all. Loyal to Swedish styling for a minimalistic but highly efficient design the new model gets updated graphics, with white colours prevailing over blue and yellow.

Featuring a maximum power output of 74 hp and a torque of 71.0 Nm the updated single cylinder EURO IV engine leaves no doubt regarding performance. Combining the highest quality components with the latest electronics in terms of engine management, the new 701 SUPERMOTO takes performance and agility to a whole new level. 

701 Supermoto Benefits 

Pure, uncompromising supermoto performance 

Astounding power-to-weight ratio 

Ride-by-wire throttle delivers maximum thrills 

Competition-level brakes for maximum stopping power 

Advanced safety thanks to Bosch ABS 

Black anodised tubeless 17’’ wheels

Wide range of accessories to enhance looks & performance 

A2 licence compatible 

 

The new Husqvarna MY17 701 SUPERMOTO and 701 ENDURO will be presented at the upcoming Intermot show in Cologne on the Husqvarna Motorcycles booth, Hall 09.1 booth 025 and will be available in Europe from October on. 

For all details on availability and pricing, please refer to your national Husqvarna Motorcycles Subsidiary or Importer.

Wednesday
Sep282016

Jeffrey Herlings vs Jason Anderson exclusive footage MXoN 2016

Epic battle between America's Jason Anderson & Holland's Jeffrey Herlings at MXoN at Maggiora Park 2016
Wednesday
Sep282016

Walker Set To Make Weston Beach Race Debut

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Jonny Walker is the latest top named rider to sign up for this year’s iconic Weston Beach Race in the UK.

Along with Walker announced, MotoGP ace Scott Redding will also take to the start line too.

RHL Activities is excited to announce that Red Bull KTM Factory Racing extreme enduro star Jonny Walker will line-up for his debut HydroGarden Weston Beach Race on October 7-9, on what will be a rare opportunity to see the Cumbrian racer compete in the UK.

At a race that historically has enabled the fans to race against the pros, Walker, one of the biggest names in off-road motorcycle racing, will join this year’s roster and will be looking for nothing less than a victory. 

The 25-year-old Cumbrian has won some of the toughest events in the world including the Erzberg Red Bull Hare Scramble, Red Bull Romaniacs, Hell’s Gate as well as the Red Bull Sea To Sky to name a few, and although he has sat out much of this season with injury, Walker came back with a bang by winning the Red Bull 111 Megawatt event in Poland just under one week ago.

Walker, a former British youth trials champion, has an affinity with some of the most notorious motorcycle events worldwide, but has yet to race anything like Weston, which comprises of a challenging sand dune course with a flat out straight. The KTM-ace has had little time to prepare and is optimistic of what he can achieve, although we all know anything can happen at this event, which is so hard on man and machine. 

The 34th running of the HydroGarden Weston Beach Race is set to be a very special spectacle, as RHL Activities is proud to have two of the most iconic off-road motorcycle riders globally with Walker now joining Robbie Maddison for this year’s event.

Jonny Walker

“I’m really looking forward to being a part of the HydroGarden Weston Beach race this year. It’s not something I’ve done before, and it certainly isn't something I specialise in, but it’s an event I’ve heard so many good stories about that getting the opportunity to race myself wasn’t one I wanted to pass up. The great thing about Weston is that it brings riders together from enduro and motocross, so it’s going to be cool to catch up with riders I don't normally get the chance to race with. It’s also a good opportunity to spend time with the race fans, and I’ve heard in general it’s a great event to be part of with a special atmosphere. I guess I got some sand practice recently at Red Bull Megawatt in Poland, but I know that Weston’s not going to be like anything else I’ve done. For me it’s just a great opportunity to enjoy and compete in a major UK event.”

Scott Redding

“Weston is something I've thought about doing many times in the past, but it always seems to clash with our end of season flyaway races, so it's not been possible before. But this year the dates have fallen just right, so I get my first chance to take on the beach race. I'm not sure what to expect to be honest. I ride motocross a lot as part of my training, but not so often on sand tracks I definitely need to get in a bit more practice on sand before heading down to Weston but there's no way to really prepare yourself for three hours of racing!”

Gareth Hockey: Director of RHL Activities

“We are very excited to have two of the most iconic off-road athletes in the world with Jonny and Robbie at this year’s HydroGarden Weston Beach Race. Jonny has established himself as one of the most skilled off-road motorcycle racers on the planet, with the incredible technical ability and endurance he’s shown while winning some of the most challenging events around the world. With this in mind, it’s very fitting to have him race the biggest and perhaps toughest off-road event in the UK, where his British fans will be able to see him in action or compete in the race with him. It’s clear that our Weston-Super-Mare course is like nothing he’s raced before, but we’re looking forward to seeing him take on the challenge.”

Wednesday
Sep282016

Team USA: United By Power Episode 3

As the drama unfolds in Italy, Team USA makes a full on effort to combat the challenging teams for the top spot at MXoN. Jason Anderson escapes a near tragic crash and Cooper Webb is forced to deal with pressure from Team France. In spite of the poor gate choice, Alex Martin still fought through the pack each moto to secure top 10 finishes. The team gave it everything they had through the adversity the weekend brought. Despite the hardship, Team USA still made the podium for a third place finish.

Wednesday
Sep282016

Reed: "The Thought of Retiring Scares the Hell Out of Me."

Reprint from RacerX

By: Chase Stallo

In the lead-up to the second AUS-X Open, the promoters of the event caught up with the always-candid Chad Reed to talk about a variety of topics, including his fear of retirement.

Reed, who has raced full-time in the U.S. since 2002 and the Grand Prix series prior to that, will be 34 when the 2017 Monster Energy Supercross season kicks off in January, and will turn 35 next March. He says he isn’t ready to call it quits yet.

“I would say the number one thing that scares me the most at my age right now is not being satisfied and not letting go and the thought of retiring scares the hell out of me—it really does. And the competitive side of me and my body is willing to still go to work and so for me it’s hard, and I do get a little nervous about that day; when does that day come, that I go okay, I’m good. You know, like, I’m good. Because I’ve seen it. I’ve seen it in people and I’m not there.”

Reed is set to return to Australia on November 12-13 where he will compete against his new teammate at factory Yamaha, Cooper Webb, and Ryan Villopoto in Sydney.

Watch the full video below.

Tuesday
Sep272016

RIP...Chuck " Feets" Minert

 

Classic Feets Minert. Classic motocross. Feets during the 1970 Trans-AMA series on his factory BSA.

 

Please go to this link for a full story from Feet's longtime friend Jody Weisel. Feets was one of the pioneers of our sport. www.motocrossactionmag.com

 

 


Tuesday
Sep272016

All reved up for Weymouth Beach Motocross

 


Harry Hogger, Dorchester reporter

RIDERS are getting ready to roar across the sands of Weymouth beach as a popular annual event returns.

The Beach Motocross organised by the Weymouth and Portland Lions Club with the Purbeck Motocross Club is set to draw crowds to the seafront on Sunday, October 16.

Entries for the event have been coming in from across the south of England and it is anticipated that more than 200 riders will take part in the spectacular day of racing.

Practice will start at noon, with the first race from 1pm.

Among those taking part will be 23-year-old Jake Shipton, a previous double winner of the Expert Class from Wareham.

Jake is a professional rider and spent last year in Dubai before returning home in time to win the Weymouth Beach Motocross.

Jake, who rides for Crescent KTM Racing, is ranked in the top 10 in the British Championships and in the top three in the Motocross Nationals Championship.

He said: "I’m really looking forward to racing at Weymouth again, being a local race and an exciting one.

"A good crowd always turns out and can get close to action.

"It's a difficult race to stay out of trouble, you've got to be smart and choose the correct lines and just relax and be smooth, make the clean passes on the slower rider which pay a part in the race.

"Hopefully I can get out front early and just be smart and ride my own race.

"The Purbeck and Lions club always put on a good event, which runs smoothly and the track keeps the riders on their toes all day."

Lions Club president Mark Lockie said: "Weymouth Beach Motocross is the original and the best beach motorsport event in Weymouth.

"We’ve been going for over 30 years and we pride ourselves in providing free entertainment to residents and visitors alike while raising money for local good causes."

Alf Stearn, chairman of Purbeck Motocross Club, said: "We already have lots of entries for this year’s races so we can promise a great event this year.

"Weymouth Esplanade is going to be an exciting place to be on Motocross Sunday!"

The event is being supported by the Waterside Group.

Managing director Graham Frampton said: "We try and support local community good causes when we can –and the approach from the Lions made good sense to us both in terms of a charity fundraiser and since it provides shoulder season entertainment for our visitors and exciting family fun.

"We are all about providing a quality visitor experience and top class events fit into that ambition."