Tag Archives: Australian Arenacross Series

Moto News | Moss wins ArenaX Rnd 2 | Wilson to Japan | Hawkstone MX

Jay Wilson lands dream job racing All-Japan National MX

Yamaha’s Jay Wilson will be Australia’s next rider on the international scene after taking on a racing and development role with Yamaha Motor Corporation (YMC) in Japan for the 2022 season.

Jay Wilson

27-year old Wilson will fly out to Japan in the coming weeks to take up his new role as a factory Yamaha rider the All-Japan National Motocross Championship where he will contest the IA2 (250cc) division as well as assist in a coaching, testing and future product development role with Yamaha.

Jay Wilson

“This is the dream job for me as it encompasses the three passions I have in dirt bikes- racing, coaching and development, I still have the motivation to race and win championships and that is my primary role with Yamaha in Japan and the new venture has me motivated and as excited as I have ever been. I also get the opportunity to share my knowledge with Yamaha riders in Japan and hopefully I can assist them to race at a higher level and secure future success for Yamaha in the coming years as well as be a small part of their testing program for product development. It’s a huge opportunity and a big responsibility but one my family and I are looking forward to.

Jay Wilson

“With Covid, it has delayed things in many ways and has made this a little more difficult locking down dates but everyone behind the scenes at YMC and YMA have worked hard to get everything in line. I’m so thankful for their efforts as I’m taking my family with me, so it’s been more complicated than my trip to Sugo last year. I have been training here in Australia in preparation for the season ahead and things are beginning to ramp up as our departure gets closer. We will be based in Hamamatsu, close to Yamaha’s head office and test tracks and we are all looking forward to experiencing the Japanese way of life. The one constant is that I will be racing on a Yamaha YZ250F, which is a bike a love racing and proud to showcase in the All-Japan Nationals. I’m proud to be given this chance with Yamaha and even more proud to extend an already successful relationship not just between myself and Yamaha but also Yamaha Australia and head office in Japan.”

2022 All Japan Motocross Championship Calendar

Round Date Location
Round 1 April 9 and 10 Kyushu, Kumamoto
Round 2 May 14 and 15 Kanto, Saitama
Round 3 June 11 and 12 Cyugoku, Hiroshima
Round 4 July 16 and 17 Sugo, Miyagi
Round 5 September 10 and 11 Kinki, Nara
Round 6 October 8 and 9 Kyushu, Kumamoto
Round 7 October 29 and 30 Kanto, Saitama
Round 8 November 11 and 12 Sugo, Miyagi 

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FIM Hard Enduro adds Junior World Cup

New for 2022, the FIM Hard Enduro World Championship will feature a dedicated FIM Hard Enduro Junior World Cup to recognize and help promote young, rising talent within the sport, introducing a Junior category open to riders under the age of 22 (on January 1) will be introduced

The Junior class will be fully integrated into the Pro category, with riders racing side-by-side with the world’s best Hard Enduro riders, on the same tracks at the same time.

Keeping the selected rounds in Europe for 2022 will help to keep costs down and make participation more affordable for the primarily European-based Junior competitors.

For the inaugural season, the series will have the status of being the FIM Hard Enduro Junior World Cup, with a plan to elevate it to the FIM Hard Enduro Junior World Championship in the future.


Josep Garcia joins 2022 GNCC for opening three rounds

Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Josep Garcia will kick off his 2022 season by competing in the first three rounds of this year’s AMA Grand National Cross Country Series in North America. The young Spaniard will also take the opportunity to train with riders in the U.S. before returning to Europe and shifting his focus back to the FIM EnduroGP World Championship, which begins in May.

Josep Garcia
Josep Garcia

With their mass starts and three-hour duration, GNCC races are very different to the special test format of the EnduroGP World Championship. However, Garcia has shown in the past, including his two years contesting the WESS World Championship, that he’s more than capable of adapting his riding to unfamiliar conditions and challenges.

Josep Garcia

“After many years, I have finally got the chance to go to the United States and race in the GNCC. The plan is to compete in the first three rounds before returning to Europe for the Spanish and World enduro championships. It’s been a long-standing goal of mine to do some GNCC races and this year, thanks to KTM Factory Racing and KTM USA, I will fulfil my dream. At the Six Days last year, a lot of the American riders encouraged me to race the series, and now I’m really looking forward to doing some three-hour cross-countries. Winter training for me has gone very well. We have made some improvements to the bike in Italy with the team, and I definitely feel good and ready for a new challenge. There’s no pressure, so the plan is to go over there, try my best, and enjoy it.”

Josep Garcia lifting the EnduroGP trophy in 2021

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KTM Junior Racing Team 2022 line-up revealed

Kyle Harvey will join returning riders Kayden Minear, Jet Alsop and Cooper Ford on the official KTM Junior Racing Team for season 2022.

This year marks the fourth term with the team for Western Australian Minear. The 15-year-old will race the 125 SX and 250 SX-F at national and state level, while again contesting the ultra-competitive MX3 class in the Australian ProMX Championship. Minear finished third in the shortened MX3 series last year and is now eager to find the top step of the podium.

Kayden Minear

“I’m stoked to be back as part of the KTM Junior Racing Team. My ambitions are to go a little bit better in the MX3 class and to look at racing another Australian Junior Motocross Championship — hopefully, come away with a couple more Australian titles. It’s clear to see KTM is the best brand and being supported by the best manufacturer gives me added confidence entering the upcoming races.”

Kayden Minear

Three-time Australian junior champion Alsop will also be astride the 125 SX and 250 SX-F this year as he steps up to his first year racing the MX3 category in ProMX. The highly-rated teenager will also line up behind the gate at the Australian Junior Motocross Championship later this year, as well as a range of state-level events.

Jet Alsop

“I’m just super-excited to be riding for KTM again. It’s the best junior team in Australia, for sure. I would just love to get the best results I can and to make KTM proud again. With the KTM bike, we’ve got that peace of mind that we’re on good equipment and we can get a good result.”

Jet Alsop

Tasmanian talent Ford continues his association with the KTM Junior Racing Team this year, with the 13-year-old stepping up to the 13-U16 Years 85cc division and the two-time 65cc national champion will be one to watch as the season progresses.

Cooper Ford

“I’m super-excited to return to the KTM Junior Racing Team for 2022. Now stepping up to my 85 big wheel, I’m looking forward to a full year of racing, finishing up with the Australian Junior Motocross Championship. Riding a KTM just gives you an awesome feeling – they’ve got such good power, handling and everything.”

Meanwhile, KTM Junior Racing Team newcomer Harvey will be on the 85 SX at both the national and state level. The young Queenslander is no stranger to the top of the podium, with consecutive junior state titles across both Queensland and New South Wales. Harvey will also have his eyes on the number one trophy at the junior nationals in Rockhampton.

Kyle Harvey

“I am so pumped and excited to be a part of the KTM Junior Racing Team. I was blown away when I heard the news and will be forever grateful for this opportunity. I’m looking forward to 2022 and can’t wait to hopefully compete in the Australian titles later this year. I have a great support team who always push me to be my best. I‘ve worked so hard for this and I plan to work even harder, but just as importantly, have fun along the way. I can’t for the gates to drop!”

The KTM Junior Racing Team will continue to receive support from KTM Genuine Parts, KTM Powerparts, KTM Powerwear, Motorex, Troy Lee Designs, Dunlop, Kustom MX, ODI Grips and Funnelweb Filters through the 2022 season.


Royal Enfield’s Build.Train.Race returns to AFT in 2022

Now in its third year, Royal Enfield’s Build. Train. Race. program, which fosters women riders in building their own Royal Enfield race-ready motorcycles and provides guidance and training throughout an entire race season, returns for the 2022 Progressive American Flat Track season.

Build. Train. Race. participants each receive a Royal Enfield INT 650 motorcycle which they design and modify into their own unique race bike. Crew Chief Erik Moldenhauer will work with the riders, providing technical advice and support throughout the build and race portions of the program while Moto Anatomy X Royal Enfield racer Johnny Lewis will help provide on-track training.

Royal Enfield INT 650 (Interceptor 650)

Seven returning riders will be joined by eight new participants, growing the Royal Enfield BTR presence in the Progressive American Flat Track paddock to 15 racers over last season’s nine.

2022 BTR Flat Track Roster
  • Jaycee Jones, 23, Fallbrook, California
  • Lana Macnaughton, 32, Nampa, Idaho
  • Gabrielle Hughes, 24, Akron, Ohio
  • Nean Kiskela, 41, Portland, Oregon
  • Jillian Deschenes, 33, Otsego, Minnesota
  • Malary Lee, 31, Buda, Texas
  • Erin Ferris, 31, Graham, Washington
  • Anna Serena, 36, Miami Beach, Florida
  • Stephanie Pietz, 35, Mesa, Arizona
  • Kaiela Hobart, 28, Bremerton, Washington
  • Zaria Martens, 18, Fond Du Lac, Wisconsin
  • Alex Bumpus Mcdonald, 33, Murfreesboro, Tennessee
  • Makenna Hiatt, 22, Camano Island, Washington
  • Moriah Hummer, 35, Fort Collins, Colorado
  • Mia Reese, 28, Woodstock, Illinois

Along with the team roster, the BTR Flat Track schedule increases in scope. On the heels of last season’s four-round circuit, the BTR program will visit seven Progressive American Flat Track venues in 2022.

Racing will begin at the Mission Foods Volusia Half-Mile in Barberville, Florida, March 10, for “BTR Select,” which will invite returning riders, and new participants who have their builds complete, to compete in an exhibition race.

The first BTR Flat Track full-grid event will be the I-70 Half-Mile in Odessa, Missouri (April 23), after the entire field have completed their race bikes and training.

2022 Royal Enfield BTR Flat Track Schedule
Round Date Event Location
Round 1 Mar 11 Mission Foods Volusia Half-Mile I Barberville, FL
Round 2 Apr 23 I-70 Half-Mile Odessa, MO
Round 3 Jun 11 Laconia Short Track Loudon NH
Round 4 Jul 16 Mission Foods Port Royal Half-Mile Port Royal, PA
Round 5 Aug 06 Black Hills Half-Mile Rapid City, SD
Round 6 Sep 24 Cedar Lake Short Track New Richmond, WI
Round 7 Oct 15 Mission Foods Volusia Half-Mile III Barberville, FL

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Wally Brown Racing signs James Rispoli for AFT 2022

Last month, WBR announced it was developing a KTM 890 Duke with plans to field it in a limited schedule in the Mission Production Twins presented by Vance & Hines class.

James Rispoli

Rispoli earned the 2020 Mission Production Twins championship on the strength of seven wins and four runner-ups and returns to the class following a season competing in the premier Mission SuperTwins category.

Wally Brown – Wally Brown Racing

“James is a great match for us this year. Testing is a critical part of building this race machine. We sought a rider that understands data and how it fits into a race program. With James’ extensive background in racing, we feel he is going to be a great asset to the team. Not to mention that he is a Production Twins Champion who has proven he can win on the track.”

James Rispoli

“I am really looking forward to working on this new project. After meeting Wally and learning more about his plan for 2022, I knew I wanted to be part of it. With his extensive background in four-wheeled racing, and my varied experiences on two wheels, we should make a great team. It’s going to be a lot of work, but with the support of Wally, and his team I am hopeful we will make great progress in a short period of time.”

Development is well underway of the Wally Brown Racing KTM 890 Duke with plans to debut at the Mission Red Mile I & II.

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AFT’s Grumpy Old Men Racing signs Brandon Price and Tyler Scott

GOMR (Grumpy Old Men Racing) has signed Brandon Price to compete in the Mission SuperTwins presented by S&S Cycle class aboard an Indian FTR750 for the 2022 Progressive American Flat Track season.

Brandon Price– Image Scott Hunter

GOMR – which previously competed as BriggsAuto.com Racing – will continue to be overseen by Johnny and Sarah Goad with mechanical assistance from Tom Draina and Caylee Goad, while Russ and Illene Briggs will provide the resources to back the operation.

Price’s aggressive style and tremendous work ethic – supported by veteran tuner Johnny Goad – promises to make GOMR a force to be reckoned with in the upcoming season.

GOMR will also field rising star Tyler Scott in the Parts Unlimited AFT Singles presented by KICKER class. Scott – the reigning MotoAmerica Junior Cup champion – will run a limited Progressive AFT schedule in conjunction with his road racing efforts.

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Husqvarna’s Brian Bogers dominates Hawkstone Park MX

The Hawkstone Park MX has provided an opportunity for a number of MXGP riders to stretch their legs, ahead of the season kicking off, with Brian Bogers proving the man to beat, topping the MX1 class ahead of Glenn Coldenhoff and Thomas Kjer Olsen.

Brian Bogers

Bogers won MX1 Moto One by a huge margin, ahead of Coldenhoff and Harri Kullas. Moto Two saw Brent Van Doninck win, ahead of Thomas Kjer Olsen and Shaun Simpson, with Bogers down in seventh, but the finish awarding enough for the overall win.

Brian Bogers – P1

“It was not a bad day! I started fourth and worked my way into first in the first moto, so that was really good. It was unfortunate that I crashed in the second moto, so I was only seventh on a track that was very hard to pass on. I was pleased to salvage an overall victory in MX1! Overall, it was a good day. I am happy with my riding and hope that we can do our very best this season.”

Brian Bogers

MX1 Overall

  1. Brian Bogers (Husqvarna) 39 pts
  2. Glenn Coldenhoff (Yamaha) 37 pts
  3. Thomas Kjer Olsen (KTM) 35 pts

MX1 Moto One

  1. Brian Bogers (Husqvarna) 29:37.465
  2. Glenn Coldenhoff (Yamaha) 29:52.221
  3. Harri Kullas (Yamaha) 29:56.284

MX1 Moto Two

  1. Brent Van Doninck (Yamaha) 29:17.915
  2. Thomas Kjer Olsen (KTM) 29:23.576
  3. Shaun Simpson (KTM) 29:34.558
    … 7. Brian Bogers (Husqvarna) 30:10.149

In MX2, it was Conrad Mewse who topped the event, ahead of Kay de Wolf and Tom Vialle, who were tied on 42-points, a single-point off the leader.

MX2 Moto one saw Isak Gifting claim the win from Vialle and de Wolf by five-seconds, while Moto Two was dominated by Conrad Mewse, with de Wolf runner up and Vialle third, for tight points at the top.

Kay de Wolf – P2

“Today was a good day! I had a little crash after the start in the first moto and had to make my way through – it was quite difficult. We had a little stop for a goggle change too! I still got third, so I knew that the speed was there. I made a few mistakes in the second moto, but still managed to finish second in the race and overall. It was a pretty good day and good practice that we can learn from.”

Kay de Wolf
Tom Vialle – P3

“Better than Lacapelle, and good to get into the sand for a race. I had two great starts. I struggled with some arm-pump in the first moto and couldn’t really ride my speed but the second moto was much better; I only lost the overall win on the last lap when I was stuck behind a backmarker. Anyway, the result was not critical here. It was important to work on the bike and we had some difficult riding conditions. I think we made a big step. It was good training and next week we will start the season for real.”

Tom Vialle

MX2 Overall

  1. Conrad Mewse (KTM) 43pts
  2. Kay de Wolf (Husqvarna) 42 pts
  3. Tom Vialle (KTM) 42pts

MX2 Moto One

  1. Isak Gifting (KTM) 29:31.044
  2. Tom Vialle (KTM) 29:36.360
  3. Kay de Wolf (Husqvarna) 29:37.220

MX2 Moto Two

  1. Conrad Mewse (KTM) 29:10.939
  2. Kay de Wolf (Husqvarna) 29:12.833
  3. Tom Vialle (KTM) 29:14.364

The Super Final meanwhile saw Coldenhoff win by 2.5s, from Ben Watson and Bogers, who were separated by less than a second.

Ben Watson – Super Final P2

“We have three races under our belt now and can look forward to the opening GP next weekend. I feel we have made progress each week, particularly with the starts; I’ve been riding a little tight in the first moto each week with arm pump, but that was a lot better today and I ended up the day on a high note.“

Ben Watson
Super Final
  1. Glenn Coldenhoff (Yamaha) 31:42.672
  2. Ben Watson (Kawasaki) 31:45.108
  3. Brian Bogers (Husqvarna) 31:45.976
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Matt Moss dominates Arenacross Round 2

Matt Moss has extended his lead at Swan Hill Arenacross Round 2, this time taking a clean sweep of all three races to claim 75-points, which he adds to his tally of 72-points from Round 1. As at the earlier round, Brett Metcalfe proved his closest competitor, with Joben Baldwin wrapping up the top-three in the AX1 Expert class.

Matt Moss topped the Arenacross Round 2 podium ahead of Metcalfe and Baldwin – Image Instagram (Matt Moss)

Race 1 saw Moss claim the win from Metcalfe by 0.452s, with Baldwin a more distance third, with the rest of the field at least a lap in arrears. Race 2 saw an even more dominant performance from Moss, this time winning from Metcalfe by 6.289s, while Baldwin closed down the gap to the leaders to 27s. Race 3 was Moss’s third win of the night, this time leading Metcalfe over the line by 2.373s, while third placed Baldwin was 38s off the lead.

The AX1 Expert results for Round 2 saw Moss leave with 75-points, Metcalfe on 66, and Baldwin on 60. Completing the top five was Elijah Wiese (52-points) and Cory Watts (50).

Blake Fox topped the AX2 Expert class meanwhile, with three wins from three races, ahead of a consistent Liam Andrews (66-points) and Wilson Greiner-Daish (60), who took second and third in each race respectively. Mackenzie O’Bree (54) and Caleb Goullet (43) completed the top five for the event.

In the AX Vets class we saw another sweep, by Brad Kennedy, winning all three races from Kane Scanlan who ran 2-2-2. Michael Dorman was third on 52-points, finishing 3-4-5, for a two-point buffer over Jacob Dimsmey whose seventh place finish in Race 1 meant third in races two and three wasn’t enough for the round podium. Michael Anthony completed the top five, racing 5-5-4.

AX1 Expert results

Pos Competitor Total R1 R2 R3
1 Matt Moss 75 25 25 25
2 Brett Metcalfe 66 22 22 22
3 Joben Baldwin 60 20 20 20
4 Elijah Wiese 52 18 18 16
5 Cory Watts 50 16 16 18
6 Allister Kent 35 14 13 8
7 Jack Pengelly 32 12 9 11
8 Max Closter 32 13 12 7
9 Rielly Lynch 31 6 11 14
10 Scott O’Connor 31 9 10 12

AX2 Expert results

Pos Competitor Total R1 R2 R3
1 Blake Fox 75 25 25 25
2 Liam Andrews 66 22 22 22
3 Wilson Greiner-Daish 60 20 20 20
4 Mackenzie O’Bree 54 18 18 18
5 Caleb Goullet 43 15 12 16
6 Ashley O’Meley 41 13 13 15
7 Brock Ninness 41 16 15 10
8 Kallam Orchard 36 12 11 13
9 Troy Mora 35 14 9 12
10 Jake Robb 31 10 10 11
11 Royce Anell 28 14 14
12 Taylor Thompson 27 11 16

AX Vets results

Pos Competitor Total R1 R2 R3
1 Brad Kennedy 75 25 25 25
2 Kane Scanlan 66 22 22 22
3 Michael Dorman 54 20 18 16
4 Jacob Dumsmey 52 12 20 20
5 Michael Anthony 50 16 16 18
6 Kane McQuarrie 45 15 15 15
7 Salvatore Germano 40 14 13 13
8 Daniel Phillips 39 13 14 12
9 Jason Skiel 37 11 12 14
10 Camron Robertson 31 9 11 11
11 darcy Lewis 30 10 10 10
12 Craig Rutherford 18 18

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King of MX qualifiers run in Hastings Valley and Leeton

King of MX qualifiers have run over the weekend, in Hastings Valley and Leefton, giving riders an opportunity to win a golden ticket to the main vent which will be held in Wagga Wagga, over the June long weekend.

There’ll be three more qualifiers offering opportunities into the main event, at Clarence, Moree and Appin, with King of MX encouraging riders to get their entries in early.

Korey McMahon swept the Hasting Valley results in the MX1 A-Grade class, ahead of Joel Evans and Zhane Dunlop, with Geoff Wallance, Nic Frayne and Colby Campbell running fourth through sixth respectively.

Brandon Steel topped the MX2 A-Grade category, ahead of Zac Zadravec and Korey McMahon, while the MX3 class saw Connor Towill the top performer, sweeping all three races ahead of Hunter Collins and Rory Fairbrother.

The MX Store Cup saw Matthew Prott take the win, from Brad Mercer and Christian Giudice, while Sienna Giudice topped the MXW, and Andrew Meldrum was top Vet.

At Leeton we saw James Davison top the MX1 A-Grade from David Thynne, with Davison also topping the MX2. Liam Jackson took a three-point victory after three races in the MX3, from Byron Dennis and Angus Pearce in third.

Matthew Kehlet swept the Vets class with three wins from Daniel Darby and Adam Beck, while Keira Collins was top MXW competitor, from Samantha McAurthur and Julie Collins.

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Alex Adamson wins Victorian 250 cc Speedway Solo Championship at Mildura

Alex Adamson has wrapped up the Victorian 250 cc Speedway Solo Championship title in Mildura over the weekend, taking the Final win from Noah Grabham after a night of close racing, with Brock White third and Ash Jansen fourth.

Sam Masters meanwhile won the Jason Lyons Solo Trophy 500 cc Final.


Standing Construct Husqvarna set for MXGP 2022

Standing Construct Husqvarna Factory Racing will represent the brand in the MXGP World Championship in 2022, with Pauls Jonass and Brian Bogers competing aboard proven FC 450 machinery.

Standing Construct Husqvarna Factory Racing – Pauls Jonass and Brian Bogers

The team looks to build upon its highly positive 2021 term in the MXGP World Championship which brought multiple podiums and top-five results for both riders.

Pauls Jonass

“We’re not far away from the new season which is really exciting and moving over to race on Husqvarna machinery again, I really feel that 2022 will be a great season for myself and the whole team. Being able to stay with the Standing Construct team is perfect for me as we put in a lot of hard work before last season, and I know that this will give us a solid foundation going into 2022. We have goals to achieve together and I think that what we have built up over the last year will make a big difference this year. This off season has been really short and a lot of hard work has been done in preparation for the first round. With the team we have been really busy adjusting to the new bike and so far, everything has been positive and I felt comfortable on the FC 450 right away. Overall, I’m super excited for 2022 and I can’t wait to get started.”

Pauls Jonass
Brian Bogers

“I’m really excited for the new season. The move over to Husqvarna machinery has not been a big change and the Standing Construct Husqvarna team has provided me with an amazing bike, just like they did last year. We’re going back to a two-day format for GP weekends in 2022 which is another positive change for me as there will be a lot more track time to really dial in the bike for each round. It’s not too long until the new season starts and I’m really excited for round one at Matterley Basin. The Standing Construct team is amazing and feels like a family to me, so this will for sure help me to achieve my goals. In 2021 I claimed many top-five results so my goal for 2022 will be to be up front and inside the top five more consistently. With this team and my new bike I’ve no doubt that I can achieve this.”

Brian Bogers
Tim Mathys – Standing Construct Husqvarna Factory Racing Team Manager

“We are really proud that we have the confidence of Husqvarna Motorcycles to officially represent the brand in MXGP. As they are one of the pioneers of offroad bikes with such a great history and reputation, it’s a really exciting new chapter for the team. We have enjoyed a great two years running the GASGAS program in MXGP and I think we did a good job with winning an MXGP round and getting several podiums, but now being responsible to represent Husqvarna in the biggest motocross championship in the world is another huge honour. With Pauls Jonass and Brian Bogers, we have two riders who have proven to be able to ride inside top five in MXGP, and with their age I think the extra experience from the past season will make them even stronger in 2022. Both riders feel very comfortable within the team and we are very happy with their professionalism, so that’s a good base to keep working from. We will keep the same crew for the new season. Everyone is very experienced, and they have all been working together for many years. With Wim van Hoof overseeing the team I am convinced we have one of the most capable teams in the paddock so I look forward to 2022 with lots of confidence.”

Standing Construct Husqvarna Factory Racing – Pauls Jonass and Brian Bogers

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Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MXGP teams break cover

The Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MXGP and MX2 teams are revved up and ready to get the new season underway. Back with a familiar yet strong line-up in 2022, both teams are looking fit, fast and motivated for the new MXGP season, which will kick off at the spectacular Matterley Basin venue in Winchester, England, next weekend.

Reigning MX2 World Champion Maxime Renaux has moved up from the 250cc class, MX2, to the 450cc class, MXGP. The 21-year-old ‘Power Rookie’ was drafted into the Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MXGP team at the end of 2021 and is poised to race a YZ450FM inside the premier class alongside his new teammates Jeremy Seewer and Glenn Coldenhoff.

Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MXGP and MX2 line-up

Last year was one for the history books for the Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MX2 team, as they enter their 25th year in blue this season. The team won their first-ever MX2 World Championship with Maxime Renaux in 2021 and became the first-ever Yamaha team to secure the gold and silver medals inside the MX2 World Championship in the same season. As a result, Yamaha also successfully defended the Manufacturers’ world title.

Back for more in 2022, the Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MX2 team has retained its young stars Jago Geerts and Thibault Benistant.

Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MXGP

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Source: MCNews.com.au

Moto News | Rally | Flat Track | Arenacross | X-Trial | 2022 Calendars

Kurt Nicoll another World Vet MX title at Glen Helen

Kurt Nicoll has taken his Champion MX SXF450 KTM to victory at the Dubya World Vet MX Championships held at Glen Helen Raceway, marking his sixth World Vet Pro title. On Saturday he topped the 50+ Pro class, winning both motos, and taking the overall over Ty Davis and Kevin Barda.

Sunday saw Nicoll again win the Pasha 125 cc 50+ Pro class, with consistency proving key, with two second places netting the overall.  This time winning from Peter Murray and Barda.

Kurt Nicoll

“A fantastic weekend at the Dubya World Vet MX Championships! Perfect Weather and a brutally bumpy Glen Helen Raceway made for a superb event. I picked up my 6th World Vet pro title, on my perfect 2022 Champion MX SXF450 KTM! Thanks to everyone that supports this old guys passion to still win!”

Kurt Nicoll – Image: Facebook

Liam Everts’ season ended by injury

It’s been revealed that Liam Everts’ injury, sustained on Saturday is worse than originally expected. An MRI has revealed a fractured shoulder blade, putting an early end to his 2021 season as a result.

Liam Everts shared on Instagram:

“Yesterday during timed practice a had a little crash what resulted in a little break in my shoulder blade this is my season over one race earlier then I would of hoped I’d like thank all my sponsors and family for this year. Motivated for 2022.”


Ben Novak prepares for 2022 with Honda after heart surgery

Honda Australia’s MX 3 rider Ben Novak is recovering following his third open-heart surgery. The young New South Wales rider has endured a heart condition since birth which has hampered his career and ultimately pushed him to make the decision to get it corrected ahead of the 2022 season where he will battle the MX2 riders with Factory Honda.

Ben Novak

“It’s been tough, my health has never been 100%, I suffer from something called Tetralogy of the Fallot and we always knew there would come a time for me to have another surgery. As I have gotten older it’s been harder to perform at my best and racing in MX2 next year requires me to be stronger and fitter than ever before. I will never complain about it but it’s been harder on the bigger bikes and in longer races, especially in the heat. I worked around it for so long, but I noticed it more this year and my parents and I thought it was best to get the surgery ahead of next year. I am confident this will help improve my stamina, my muscle recovery and growth. It’s been a hard two years for everyone in racing and this wasn’t an easy decision, but we felt it was the right one. I really appreciate Honda sticking by me.”

Ben Novak

Tetralogy of the Fallot is a rare condition caused by a combination of four heart defects that are present at birth, it causes oxygen-poor blood to flow out of the heart and in the rest of the body. Symptoms include but aren’t limited to shortness of breath and difficulties in exercising.

Ben’s first surgery was at 11 days old, followed by his second open heart surgery at 15 months. The championed motocross racer hopes this will be his last surgery as he plans to take on the nations best in the MX2 class next season.

Ben’s journey with Honda goes back five years and he has achieved some fantastic results. This year was his first full season in MX3, and he achieved podium finishes in the Australian Motocross Championship.

Ben Novak

“The positives are we were competitive, I missed out by two points in the overalls, and I won some state championship races. I know where I need to improve, and I am positive we will return stronger next year.”

Ben Novak

Honda Racing Australia’s Yarrive Konsky applauds Ben’s efforts through adversity and believes the young champion is capable of so much more.

Yarrive Konsky

“We haven’t seen the best of Ben; he has achieved great results for Honda, and we will standby him through his recovery. He proved to me that he has the will to push hard, and his commitment is unquestionable. We have realistically set goals for Ben next year in his first season in MX2 and we will continue to work with him to achieve them.”


Thibault Benistant misses Mantova double-header

Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MX2’s Thibault Benistant will not participate in the final two rounds of the FIM Motocross World Championship in Mantova, after sustaining an injury to his left knee.

Thibault Benistant

The decision to withdraw the 19-year-old Frenchman from the final two rounds of the season was taken by Yamaha in consultation with the team. Benistant will be assessed by a knee specialist in Lyon, France. Once the full extent of the injury is understood, a program for his recovery and return to racing will be implemented.

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Daniel Sanders retains third after Abu Dhabi Stage Two

Stage Two of the 2021 Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge proved a long one, with riders facing 470 km in total, including a timed special of 333 km, encompassing tough navigation through dunes, alongside faster tracks that required speed and concentration.

Daniel Sanders claimed third at the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge Stage Two

Putting in a strong ride through the desert, Aussie Daniel Sanders defended his overall position in the top three to end the day just three-minutes behind leader Matthias Walkner. The result cements that standing for a second day, while third for the stage was an improvement on Stage One’s fourth place finish.

Daniel Sanders – P3

“Day two went ok for me, but not as well as I’d hoped. I found it hard to get into a good rhythm early on – I had a couple more scary calls with some drops as I’m still learning how to read the terrain here in the desert. I had a couple of crashes too – one gave me quite a knock and I ended up in a hole in the dunes. I had to dig the bike out a little and that cost me some time. I got to the refuel and managed to get some food and water into me, recharged and felt a lot better after that. For the second half of the stage, I felt a lot better and managed to find a good pace. The terrain suited me better too, with more tracks and plateaus. I finished third-fastest today, which puts me in a good spot for tomorrow.”

See the report here:
Daniel Sanders third at Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge Stage Two


Bryan Miller wins WA Flat Track Championship at Pinjar

Former Kiwi 500 cc solo rider, Bryan Miller beat a big and very talented field of Flat Track riders to claim the Western Australian Flat Track Championship title at Pinjar Park Motorcycle Speedway on Saturday evening.

Bryan finished second in his first heat then won his next three rides to go into the all important championship decider as the second highest point scorer, behind South Australian competitor, Sean Chapman who won all his qualifying heats. Bryan rode with plenty of grit and determination to go on and win the Final to claim the title race.

Bryan displayed plenty of raw talent, determination and some spirited aggression during his five rides. At times he had to be prepared to rub shoulders and muscle his way forward in a brilliant display of riding.

Sean Chapman finished a credible second place in the hard fought final race beating home the defending champion, Matt Marson who also rode very well all night long and didn’t do too much wrong.

With nine riders across the track in each heat, it was tough going into turn one requiring some brave manoeuvres and aggressive riding.

The point scoring system made it critical to be consistent and finish in the top four in each heat to ensure riders accumulated sufficient points to advance directly into the A final without having to compete and finish either first or second in the B final to advance further.

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Perfect start to X-Trial season in Andorra for Toni Bou

The first round of the FIM X-Trial World Championship held in Andorra la Vella saw Repsol Honda Team rider Toni Bou clinch the victory.

Toni Bou – 2021 X-Trial Round 1 Andorra

Toni Bou kicked off the 2021 X-Trial season with a rip-roaring triumph at the Poliesportiu de Andorra in Andorra la Vella to become the first leader of the 2021 championship.

The action got underway with the first qualifying round, where riders had to overcome a total of six sections with Toni Bou making several mistakes to finish fourth on seven penalty marks.

In the second round, where just the top riders in each group would make the cut for the final, the Repsol Honda Team rider stormed back, delighting the Andorran spectators with a fine display of riding skills, finishing the round with a clean sheet to grant the champion direct access to the final round.

Toni Bou – 2021 X-Trial Round 1 Andorra

In the final, against one of his toughest rivals Adam Raga, Toni Bou once again pulled it off, cleaning all six sections for 0 points compared to Raga’s 11, thus sealing the win at the Andorrean season opener.

In two weeks the Repsol Honda team and Toni Bou will once again be back in action for the second and final trial of the shortened X-Trial World Championship at the Palau Sant Jordi in Barcelona on Sunday 21 November.

Toni Bou – 2021 X-Trial Round 1 Andorra

Toni Bou – P1

“I’m very happy with this victory. After 20 months without participating in X-Trial the sensations were strange today. To be back competing in front of the fans and, on top of that with an Andorran crowd that was incredible. We know that Barcelona – which is also my home trial – will be very tough and that’s why it was so important to win here today. At the start, I managed to pick up some points and I made some mistakes. But on both the second lap and the final one, things went spectacularly, not only because I didn’t pick up any marks, but also because I was feeling very comfortable with my riding and felt confident and aggressive. I am very pleased with my riding, but above all with the team. I want to thank them for all the work they have done this last month after winning the outdoor world championship, to get the bike ready for the indoor championship.”

Toni Bou topped the Andorra podium – 2021 X-Trial Round 1 Andorra

X-Trial 2021 Rider Standings

Pos Rider Nat. Team Man. Points
1 BOU Toni SPA Repsol Honda Team Montesa 20
2 RAGA Adam SPA TRRS Factory Team TRRS 15
3 BUSTO Jaime SPA Vertigo Factory Team Vertigo 12
4 GRATTAROLA Matteo ITA Beta Factory Racing Beta 9
5 FAJARDO Jeroni SPA Sherco Factory Team Sherco 6
6 GELABERT Miquel SPA Gas Gas Factory Team Gas Gas 4
7 MARCELLI Gabriel SPA Montesa Factory Montesa 2
8 MARTYN Toby GBR TRRS Factory Team TRRS 1

2022 Australian Arenacross Series Calendar

The inaugural 2022 Australian Arenacross Series powered by Protraxx calendar has now been released, with the series aimed at amateurs who want to have fun right through to professional racers, while offering a carnival-like atmosphere for spectators and families.

The 2022 Australian Arenacross Series powered by Protraxx will feature four rounds at four spectacular venues.

2022 Australian Arenacross Series Calendar

The 2022 Series fires into action at Victoria’s Bacchus Marsh on January 29, before heading North to Swan Hill on February 12, Albury/Wodonga on February 26, and the Grand Finale at South Australia’s Renmark on March 12.

The Australian Arenacross Series will introduce fans to a mash of MX racing on manicured tracks, freestyle action, pit party fun, big extreme rides, trade stands and food trucks and plenty of family entertainment.

The Series is brought to you by nationally recognised motorcycle track building company, Protraxx who build Australia’s Supercross stadiums, national events and club tracks.

Josh and Jess Proctor, owners of Protraxx, wanted to fill the gap between Motocross and Supercoss, providing riders with an opportunity to race and give fans some sensational on track action, with a fun and safe track for your average rider all the way to the seasoned pro.

Register now through the official Australian Arenacross Series powered by Protraxx website at www.australianarenacross.com.au for additional information.

2022 Australian Arenacross Calendar

Round Location Date
Round 1 Bacchus Marsh Jan-29
Round 2 Swan Hill Feb-12
Round 3 Albury/Wodonga Feb-26
Round 4 Renmark Mar-12
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ProMX Championship Calendar expanded to eight rounds in 2022

The much anticipated 2022 Penrite ProMX Championship presented by AMX Superstores (ProMX) Calendar has now broken cover, featuring an expanded Championship of eight rounds of racing over eight separate weekends across the THOR MX1, Pirelli MX2 and Maxxis MX3 classes.

2022 ProMX Championship Calendar
2022 ProMX Championship Calendar

The gate will drop on the 2022 ProMX Championship at the iconic Wonthaggi track in Victoria, for round 1 on March 27th. Building on the huge fan attendances and incredible racing from the inaugural Championship opener this year, Wonthaggi is set to be nothing short of a spectacular launch for the 2022 ProMX Championship.

Round 2 of the Championship will see ProMX partner with the Yamaha Australian Off-Road Championship (AORC) presented by MXstore in Mackay QLD, on April 10th, as part of the ultimate off-road racing weekend, treating fans, industry and riders alike to a show stopping weekend of off-road racing.

The Championship then moves to Wodonga in VIC, on May 1st, before heading to the city of Churches and the Gillman racetrack in SA on May 29th. Maitland NSW, will again host the ProMX Championship Round 5 on June 26th, before a new and exciting venue in Coffs Harbour, NSW, will host Round 6 of the Championship on July 24th.

ProMX returns in 2022 bigger and better

The chase for the Championship will then heat up with two weekends of back to back racing in the sunshine state of QLD, with Queensland Moto Park (QMP) hosting the penultimate Round 7 on August 14th. The Champions will then be crowned at the Grand Finale of racing at Coolum for Round 8 of the Championship on August 20th and 21st.

Peter Doyle – Motorcycling Australia CEO

“There has been significant investment in the ProMX Championship to help elevate the sport of Motocross in Australia. The new initiatives we were able to introduce such as an international TV package and the addition of the Maxxis MX3 Class to help the next generation of the sport chase their racing dreams, has seen great reception from the riders, fans and industry alike. Our goals and commitment to the ProMX Championship remain the same in 2022 and this is to further develop a strong platform for the long term success of Australian Motocross on a national level and to provide a pathway for future champions.”

2022 ProMX Championship Calendar

Round Location Date
Round 1 Wonthaggi, VIC Mar-27
Round 2 Mackay, QLD Apr-10
Round 3 Wodonga, VIC May-01
Round 4 Gillman, SA May-29
Round 5 Maitland, NSW Jun-26
Round 6 Coffs Harbour, NSW Jul-24
Round 7 Queensland Moto Park Aug-14
Round 8 Coolum, QLD August 20-21
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12-round Lucas Oil Pro MX Championship calendar for 2022

The 2022 Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing series will kick off and conclude during the holiday weekends that signify the proverbial beginning and end of summer, starting with Memorial Day, in May, and finishing over Labor Day, in September.

AMA MX Rnd Starts JK MX Ironman
AMA Pro Motocross – Image by Hoppenworld

The 12-round championship will once again travel to 10 different states on its journey to crown a pair of AMA National Champions, extending the legacies of the world’s most storied venues into the series’ fifth decade.

The battle for the Edison Dye and Gary Jones Cups will begin in a familiar place, on May 28, from the heart of the industry in Southern California for the Fox Raceway I National.

The first month of the season will also feature the iconic Hangtown Motocross Classic, on June 4, in Northern California, followed by the annual mile-high visit to Colorado on June 11 for the Thunder Valley National.

The sport’s Father’s Day tradition at the High Point National will signify the first East Coast round on June 18 in Pennsylvania.

After the first of two breaks in action over the course of the season, the world’s fastest riders will return to the track on July 2 for one of the biggest Independence Day traditions in all of sports, the RedBud National in Michigan.

AMA Pro Motocross – Image by Hoppenworld

The halfway point of the 2022 season will descend on the famed sands of Massachusetts’ The Wick 338 for the Southwick National, on July 9, while the second half of the championship gets underway on July 16 in Minnesota with the Spring Creek National. A second foursome of events will conclude with a return west on July 23, where the scenic Pacific Northwest is home to the Washougal National.

The championship’s final break in action will precede a four-round stretch run to end the season, beginning on August 13 with New York’s legendary Unadilla National.

A trip just outside the nation’s capital awaits on August 20 with the Budds Creek National in Southern Maryland, followed by the penultimate round on August 27 in motorsports-crazed Indiana for the Ironman National. The summer will draw to a close where it began, in Southern California, on September 3 with the Fox Raceway II National.

2022 Lucas Oil Pro MX Championship Calendar

Round Event Location Date
Round 1 Fox Raceway National I Pala, CA May-28
Round 2 Hangtown Motocross Classic Sacramento, CA Jun-04
Round 3 Thunder Valley National Lakewood, CO Jun-11
Round 4 High Point National MT Morris, PA Jun-28
Round 5 Redbud National Buchanan, MI Jul-02
Round 6 Southwick National Southwick, MA Jul-09
Round 7 Spring Creek National Millwille, MN Jul-16
Round 8 Washougal National Washougal, WA Jul-23
Round 9 Unadilla National New Berlin, NY Aug-13
Round 10 Budds Creek National Mechanicsville, MD Aug-20
Round 11 Ironman National Crawfordsville, IN Aug-27
Round 12 Fox Raceway National II Pala, CA Sep-03
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2021 24MX GetzenRodeo run-down

It was all systems go for the final stop of the 2021 FIM Hard Enduro World Championship at Germany’s 24MX GetzenRodeo. For a one-day race there was a lot packed in.

Of course the major highlight was the race to become the first FIM Hard Enduro World Champion between Billy Bolt and Manuel Lettenbichler, with Bolt grabbing that honour. But there was much more going on too. Here’s our run down of the extra bits you may have missed in Germany…

The Fight For Third

Naturally eyes were focused on the outcome of this year’s title bout between Billy Bolt and Manuel Lettenbichler. But the fight for the final step of the podium was heating up too. Mario Roman knew he was in with a shout of taking third from his Sherco Factory Racing teammate Wade Young and delivered his best ride of the season.

Wade Young

Wade struggled early on and had to dig deep to get back to fourth to claim third overall in the championship.

Busy Top Five

It was great to see Husqvarna, KTM, and Sherco take their place on the final championship podium. All three manufacturers enjoyed a race win this season. Add in Beta and there were four manufacturers inside the final top-five standings, too. Sherco grabbed the lion’s share thanks to Wade Young and Mario Roman with third and fourth.

Sehr Geil Bavaria

How cool was Mani Lettenbichler’s riding kit for 24MX GetzenRodeo! Acknowledging the importance of his home race, FOX Racing pulled out all the stops to design a truly Bavarian set of riding kit. We liked this a lot and hope to see more in the future.

Manuel Lettenbichler

Morning Qualifier

Places were limited for the GetzenChamp race, with only 15 spots available. That alone made it an intense battle for track position during the two-hour morning qualifier. At the chequered flag it was TTR’s Kevin Gallas who grabbed the final spot with Rigor Racing’s Matt Green just coming up short. However, the young South African was his usual upbeat self and was quickly found cheering trackside for everyone that afternoon. Top work Matt!

Grit & Determination

A tip of the hat goes to GASGAS supported rider Michael Walkner for a heroic ride. Michael reported that a collision with another rider at the start of the GetzenRace resulted in a heavily injured thumb. Not only racing on to qualify, he placed an impressive seventh in the GetzenChamp race to secure seventh overall in the championship.

Michael Walkner

Olszowy joins TTR for 2022

Some welcome 2022 team news emerged from GetzenRodeo with TTR Squadra Corse signing young Hard Enduro talent Dominik Olszowy. Olszowy produced some great performances this year, most notably fourth at his home race HERO Challenge. By joining a highly professional team like TTR Squadra Corse it will be exciting to see him grow as a rider.

Hard Enduro Live

24MX GetzenRodeo was a feast of Hard Enduro action, with over two hours and 37 minutes of live coverage aired on Red Bull TV and you can still watch the 24MX GetzenRodeo full replay on Red Bull TV here (link).

2021 Hard Enduro Standings

Pos Rider Man Points
1 Billy Bolt Husqvarna 104
2 Manuel Lettenbichler KTM 104
3 Wade Young Sherco 83
4 Mario Roman Sherco 76
5 Jonny Walker Beta 66
6 Alfredo Gomez Husqvarna 63
7 Michael Walkner GASGAS 46
8 Teodor Kabakchiev Husqvarna 36
9 Taddy Blazusiak GASGAS 29
10 Dominik Olszowy KTM 24
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Source: MCNews.com.au