Tag Archives: FIM Speedway of Nations

Moto Wrap | Duffy critical | WMX | Enduro | ProMX | MXGP | EMX

2021 AORC won’t crown champions with only two rounds run

Unfortunately, with no clarity provided by State Governments around the timing for the opening of state borders, the AORC Management Team has made the necessary decision to cancel the 2021 Yamaha Australian Off-Road Championships.

As only two rounds of the 2021 AORC Championship were conducted and in accordance to the AORC Championship regulations, there will be no Champions awarded for any classes in 2021.


Quintanilla wins Rally du Maroc 2021 – Sanders third

While it was Walkner and KTM winning the war that was the 2021 FIM Cross-Country Rallies World Championship, the battle victory went to the Monster Energy Honda Team’s new recruit Pablo Quintanilla. On the final day of the rally the Chilean saw off his rivals to claim both stage and race victories.

The 166-kilometre final special stage went quickly for most of the riders still in contention for victory at this Rallye du Maroc. David Castera, race director, had designed a stage with very little navigation. With little movement of wind, the dust hanging in the air accompanied the riders throughout the journey, making it impossible for riders starting from the rear to make up time.

Pablo Quintanilla started in a fine position from which to attack Mathias Walkner’s lead. The Monster Energy Honda Team rider held a sufficiently strong pace to allow him to fulfil this main mission and capture the final stage of the Rallye du Maroc and overall rally victory.

Pablo Quintanilla – P1

“I am very happy with the victory. It was a very difficult week and I want to thank the whole team for the great job they did. It was fantastic for us. Personally, I felt very comfortable, I was riding with great pace, with good navigation and that’s very good for my confidence. I am also very motivated for the next objective, which is the Dakar. We are going to take a short break, rest, recharge our batteries and then we will concentrate on the Dakar.”

Pablo Quintanilla
Pablo Quintanilla

Of the three championship rounds raced so far, Walkner has shown incredible consistency, finishing as runner-up at the high-speed Rally Kazakhstan, before taking the win in the contrasting conditions of the epic Silk Way Rally, held in Russia less than one month later. Now, with another podium result in Morocco, the experienced 35-year-old has shown he is clearly on form and will now be aiming to carry his winning momentum into the final round of the series in Abu Dhabi before focusing on the 2022 Dakar next January.

Matthias Walkner – P2

It’s been a super cool rally for me. I set out this morning hoping to take the win, but I made a small mistake about halfway through that only maybe cost me a minute, but it was enough on the shortened stage to lose out. Second place overall is great though and to win the world championship title early is amazing. The team have been great all year, so a big thank you to them. It’s time to relax now and really enjoy the moment.”

Matthias Walkner

Aussie youngster Daniel Sanders secured third overall for his, and GASGAS’, first ever podium result in the FIM Cross-Country Rallies World Championship. Even with a minor setback on day three, the Aussie turned things around on the final two stages, upping his pace and rapidly closing in on the leader to complete the rally just over five minutes short of the win.

Daniel Sanders – P3

“The last day is done and what a week it’s been! Opening the final stage was pretty cool. After around 80 kilometers the navigation became a bit more tricky so I had to slow my pace to make sure I was on the right path. I actually had a small crash in the dunes but I was up quick and straight back on a decent rhythm. I’m really happy to have finished third on this stage after opening and overall it’s been a great week. To end it with a podium and secure the first podium result for GASGAS in the world championship is really cool. Now I’m looking forward to the next race in Abu Dhabi.”

Daniel Sanders
Daniel Sanders

Returning to competition following injury, KTM’s Toby Price put the all-new 2022 model KTM 450 RALLY through its paces in its competitive debut. Making changes and developing the bike as the event progressed, the experienced Dakar champion was pleased with the performance of the machine and look forwards to continuing at the next round in Abu Dhabi.

Toby Price – P13

“It’s good to get the last day done, and out of Morocco in one piece. I picked up a small penalty for speeding in today’s stage but all-in-all I can’t complain. It’s good to get the first one under the belt after being off the bike for so long and I’m looking forward to Abu Dhabi now to see what we can do there.”

Toby Price
Toby Price

Provisional Results
Stage 5 Rally du Maroc 2021

  1. QUINTANILLA Pablo CHI Monster Energy Honda Team 1:39’12
  2. BRABEC Ricky USA Monster Energy Honda Team +0’17
  3. SANDERS Daniel AUS Gas Gas Factory Team +0’18
  4. PRICE Toby AUS Red Bull KTM Rally Factory Team 0’37+
  5. BRANCH Ross BWA Monster Energy Yamaha Rally Team +0’37
  6. BARREDA Joan SPA Monster Energy Honda Team +1’05
  7. HOWES Skyler USA Husqvarna Factory Rally Team +1’58
  8. WALKNER Matthias AUT Red Bull KTM Rally Factory Team +2’36
  9. VAN BEVEREN Adrien FRA Monster Energy Yamaha Rally Team +3’45
  10. BÜHLER Sebastian POR Hero Motorsports Team Rally +4’51

Provisional Final Outright Overall Standings
Rally du Maroc 2021 after 5 of 5 stages

  1. QUINTANILLA Pablo CHI Monster Energy Honda Team 16:26’51
  2. WALKNER Matthias AUT Red Bull KTM Rally Factory Team +1’59
  3. SANDERS Daniel AUS Gas Gas Factory Team +5’27
  4. BRABEC Ricky USA Monster Energy Honda Team +7’14
  5. VAN BEVEREN Adrien FRA Monster Energy Yamaha Rally Team +18’01
  6. BENAVIDES Luciano ARG Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing +34’03
  7. BENAVIDES Kevin ARG Red Bull KTM Rally Factory Team +39’38
  8. RODRIGUES Joaquim POR Hero Motorsports Team Rally +41’03
  9. SHORT Andrew USA Monster Energy Yamaha Rally Team +41’53
  10. CORNEJO José Ignacio CHI Monster Energy Honda Team +45’19
  11. BARREDA Joan SPA Monster Energy Honda Team +48’12
    13. PRICE Toby AUS Red Bull KTM Rally Factory Team +55’44
x Dunlop Gen Web Banner
Moto News Weekly proudly brought to you by Dunlop

Great Britain wins 2021 Speedway of Nations

Great Britain hero Robert Lambert dedicated the Lions’ famous Monster Energy FIM Speedway of Nations world-title triumph to injured star Tai Woffinden as 32 years of hurt ended in Manchester on Sunday.

British duo Lambert and Dan Bewley won the Grand Final 5-4 to send the National Speedway Stadium into raptures. Despite being beaten by Polish icon Bartosz Zmarzlik, the Lions filled second and third place after Maciej Janowski crashed dramatically on the first lap.

The Brits had not won a world team title since England lifted the 1989 World Team Cup at Bradford. Lambert, Bewley and under-21 star Tom Brennan were not alive 32 years ago.

Robert Lambert

We did it for Woffy and gave him everything we could. Hopefully he is sitting at home proud in front of the TV watching this. Tai was texting our mechanics throughout the meeting and telling us things he could see from his perspective. It was good. We have had a hard weekend with Tai getting injured. But obviously we had a strong guy to come into the team in Dan. I was born in 1998. It’s the first time in my lifetime that I have seen Great Britain as world champions, apart from Woffy being a world champion as an individual. It’s a great feeling and I am going to treasure this gold medal for as long as I live. We did it with such a young team as well. Me and Dan went out and did the business in the last race at such a high level against the two best Poles in the world. It’s such a great feeling for us and also Team GB. I am very, very proud of everyone involved.

2021 Monster Energy FIM Speedway of Nations champs Great Britain

Janowski was visibly heartbroken after his Grand Final fall as Poland took a third straight silver medal in the Monster Energy SON. While their wait for a world title goes on, he was still proud of a performance that saw the Poles top the heat score chart over two days, scoring an astonishing 74 points from a possible 84.

Denmark took the bronze medal, with Australia’s Max Fricke, Jason Doyle and Keynan Rew fourth.

Monster Energy FIM Speedway of Nations
Final One and Two Combined Scores

  1. GREAT BRITAIN 64: Robert Lambert 32, Tai Woffinden 14, Dan Bewley 11, Tom Brennan 7.
  2. POLAND 74: Bartosz Zmarzlik 38, Maciej Janowski 31, Jakub Miskowiak 5.
  3. DENMARK 68: Leon Madsen 38, Mikkel Michelsen 23, Mads Hansen 7.
  4. AUSTRALIA 49: Max Fricke 30, Jason Doyle 15, Keynan Rew 4.
  5. FRANCE 47: David Bellego 34, Dimitri Berge 13, Steven Goret 0.
  6. LATVIA 42: Andzejs Lebedevs 32, Olegs Mihailovs 8, Francis Gusts 2.
  7. SWEDEN 30: Philip Hellstrom-Bangs 24, Pontus Aspgren 4, Jacob Thorssell 2.

2021 FIM Oceania Speedway Championship cancelled

FIM Oceania and Motorcycling Australia regret to announce the cancellation of the 2021 FIM Oceania Speedway Championship, due to the continued uncertainly around COVID-19 border restrictions.

The Championship was initially scheduled for January this year and was rescheduled to December 28, at South Australia’s Gillman Speedway due to COVID-19 restrictions faced across Australia earlier in 2021.

However, due to the current border restrictions, and their impact on the event, including the many riders who are based in Europe who are impacted by travel restrictions, the tough decision has been made to cancel the FIM Oceania Speedway Championship.

FIM Oceania and Motorcycling Australia are pleased to announce that the 2022 FIM Oceania Speedway Championship will be held on December 28, 2022, at Gillman Speedway in South Australia.

The FIM Oceania Speedway Championship is one of the key international events for the Oceania region and we look forward to seeing some of world’s best speedway riders and great local talent battling it out to be named the FIM Oceania Champion in 2022.


x Dunlop Gen Web Banner
Moto News Weekly proudly brought to you by Dunlop

Herlings wins MXGP of Spain 2021

KTM’s Jeffrey Herlings topped the MXGP of Spain over the weekend, going 3-1 for the overall, with Jorge Prado runner-up on 42-points. Tim Gajser rounded out the podium on 40-points, just one in front of Romain Febvre.

Herlings now leads the MXGP class by 12-points, from Febvre, with Gajser a further three-points in arrears.

MXGP Race 1

In MXGP race one, it was Prado who grabbed the Fox Holeshot from Monster Energy Kawasaki Racing Team’s Romain Febvre, Monster Energy Yamaha Factory Racing’s Glenn Coldenhoff and Team HRC’s Tim Gajser. Herlings struggled in the start and was down in 11th position.

Romain Febvre
Romain Febvre

Having a brilliant start though was Honda SR Motoblouz rider Benoit Paturel who was fifth ahead of Monster Energy Yamaha Factory Racing’s Jeremy Seewer and Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Antonio Cairoli. The 9-time World Champion was keen on getting around Seewer and the two even banged bars, but the Swiss was able to stay ahead.

Gajser then managed to pass Coldenhoff, as Herlings got himself into ninth just behind Standing Construct GasGas Factory Racing’s Pauls Jonass.

Tim Gajser
Tim Gajser

Febvre charged his way onto the rear wheel of Prado as Gajser was keen on staying close and we saw something that has probably never happened before… Both Febvre and Gajser set the exact same lap time; a 1:51.692. The Frenchman then had Prado just 0.794 seconds ahead of him and the fight only intensified as the laps went on. Eventually by lap nine there was a change for the lead as the Kawasaki rider got into the driving seat.

Herlings looked stuck for a couple of laps as he couldn’t find a way past Jonass, but once he managed to do so, he quickly got by Cairoli too, but Paturel put of much more of a fight as he looked to defend his sixth place.

Tony Cairoli
Tony Cairoli

Meanwhile Seewer was edging closer to his teammate Coldenhoff as he searched for an opportunity to take fourth. He eventually got it done but by that point Herlings was past Paturel and catching the pair fast.

At the top end of the field though Febvre had just got the lead as Gajser caught onto the rear wheel of Prado too. The Slovenian needed to find way around the Spaniard fast as Herlings was making good progress.

Glenn Coldenhoff
Glenn Coldenhoff

After passing Coldenhoff, Herlings then got by Seewer on lap 13 and then it was game on to get to the top three. This was when Gajser started to get frustrated behind Prado and started to make mistakes as the pair battled closely. The Honda rider went down but managed to pick himself up in third just a few seconds ahead of Herlings.

It didn’t take long for Herlings to fly past Gajser and third was the best he could do as Febvre went on to win his fourth race win of the season, with Prado finishing second, putting the struggles of the French Grand Prix well and truly behind him.

MXGP Race 2

In race two, Prado got the start once again as he led Gajser, Jonass, Herlings and Cairoli. But there was issue for the winner of the opening heat, as Febvre was way down the order.

Jorge Prado
Jorge Prado

Jonass, Herlings and Cairoli almost collided as they battled for third, but it was Herlings who won that fight. Jonass made a mistake and went off track which cost him two spots as Cairoli and his teammate Brian Bogers from Standing Construct GasGas Factory Racing went through.

Herlings was also quick to get by Gajser as he set his sights on Prado who was 3.219 seconds ahead. But Gajser was looking to fight back as he kept it close to the Bullet.

Febvre was also making good progress as he managed to get himself into 13th position.

Herlings then set the fastest lap of the race as he got a little closer to Prado. Gajser was there too but was starting to come under attack from Bogers who was having a great ride.

Tony Cairoli
Tony Cairoli

The battle between Prado and Herlings sent the Spanish crowd wild, as the Dutchman was applying immense pressure onto the young Spaniard. The fight went on for a few laps but eventually by lap 10, Herlings was able to make a nice clean pass on Prado to take over first place.

Jonass then got by Bogers for fifth, as Gajser chased Prado. While his focus was on the KTM rider in front of him, Cairoli managed to sneak up of the Slovenian and join the battle for third.

Tim Gajser
Tim Gajser

By lap 13, Gajser finally managed to get around Prado for second place and Cairoli was keen on doing the same. Of course we were treated to another battle of the teammates as the two came close on several occasions, but Prado was able to keep Cairoli behind him to secure third in the race.

Herlings went on to win, crossing the line 4.281 seconds in front of Gajser who improved upon his result in race two.

Jeffrey Herlings
Jeffrey Herlings

Herlings secured his sixth GP win of the 2021 season as he took to the top step of the podium, while Prado celebrated second at his home round, with Gajser finishing third overall for the second weekend in a row.

Heading into the triple-header in Pietramurata, Herlings leads the championship by 12 points over Febvre as Gajser gets within three points of second position.

MXGP of Spain Overall

Pos Rider Nat. Bike R1 R2 Total
1 Herlings, Jeffrey NED KTM 20 25 45
2 Prado, Jorge ESP KTM 22 20 42
3 Gajser, Tim SLO HON 18 22 40
4 Febvre, Romain FRA KAW 25 14 39
5 Cairoli, Antonio ITA KTM 14 18 32
6 Jonass, Pauls LAT GAS 15 16 31
7 Seewer, Jeremy SUI YAM 16 13 29
8 Paturel, Benoit FRA HON 13 12 25
9 Bogers, Brian NED GAS 8 15 23
10 Tonus, Arnaud SUI YAM 12 10 22
11 Olsen, Thomas Kjer DEN HUS 10 9 19
12 Lupino, Alessandro ITA KTM 7 11 18
13 Coldenhoff, Glenn NED YAM 11 7 18
14 Vlaanderen, Calvin NED YAM 9 5 14
15 Van Horebeek, Jeremy BEL BET 5 6 11
16 Jacobi, Henry GER HON 0 8 8
17 Locurcio, Lorenzo VEN KTM 3 3 6
18 Simpson, Shaun GBR KTM 6 0 6
19 Brylyakov, Vsevolod MFR HON 1 4 5
20 Guillod, Valentin SUI YAM 4 0 4
21 Butron, Jose ESP KTM 0 2 2
22 Watson, Ben GBR YAM 2 0 2
23 Koch, Tom GER KTM 0 1 1

Jeffrey Herlings – P1

“We started well in time practice, but I don’t what what happened after the gate dropped. I had a bad turn, was around seventh or eighth and then we came back to thirteenth, then to tenth. It took me some time to get going. The first fifteen minutes were awful then the next fifteen were great, especially the last seven or eight laps. I couldn’t get the win, but I came from so far back. The second race was good, I was fourth after the start and then Tim made a mistake which allowed me to pass. Then there was Jorge who was having a great race and riding the best lines, so it was hard to pass him. Anyways, it was a great day after all and I am looking forward to Trentino where I will hopefully have a better start.”

Jeffrey Herlings
Jeffrey Herlings

Jorge Prado – P2

“I love it. I love the fans. I think it’s the first time that I have so many fans because we couldn’t have a crowd in my previous home GP. They were amazing today and brought so much positive energy. I have never lived something like this my whole life. It makes me a very happy person to have all these guys supporting me. It was incredible, especially after this past week. It was difficult to get back in shape after the surgery. Thankfully I was able to recover quite quickly. I gave my all coming into this weekend like I usually do for every race. I think it was obvious that I was betting on having two good starts to win this GP. The starts went well, and I think it was difficult to pass me, and I will make sure it will be even more difficult in the next races, so I am really looking forward to that one.”

Tim Gajser – P3

“The speed was good today, and I was feeling great on the track, since the morning. I pushed a little bit too much in the first race and went off track and crashed. Then Jeffrey passed me. But for the second one, I managed to get a good start. Riding was good. I made a mistake and Jeffrey passed me. Then I tried to keep up and passed Jorge at the end. I tried to get closer to Jeffrey and we were kind of riding at the same pace, but I finished second. It’s good to finish on the podium and I am also very happy with my improvement at the start, which is what we were struggling with during the past couple of weeks. I am really looking forward to the next race. It’s nice to finally have the fans back. We can see over here for Jorge’s home GP that we had so many fans getting together for him and hopefully it will be the same for the last five rounds in Italy.”

Tim Gajser
Tim Gajser

Romain Febvre – P4

“I felt amazing on this track; it very well-prepared so the conditions were perfect already in the morning and I was happy with a third gate-pick. I got a good start in the first race, second behind Jorge Prado; I tried several times to pass him without success and I also made a few mistakes in the process but finally I passed him and put in several fast laps to make a gap. I was happy to win this moto but unfortunately my second start wasn’t so good and in the third corner I collided with other riders and crashed; I was under my bike so I lost a lot of time; I came back in the race last but I had good speed and was able to come back to seventh. Everything was OK apart from this crash; I was actually happy to finish seventh as I couldn’t imagine that was possible when I got back on my bike. Now we move to Arco; it is one of my favourite tracks and I expect more great results there to continue our challenge for the title.“

Tony Cairoli – P5

“A tough race today but I’m actually happy about my feeling, and my health is getting better. I didn’t have the same problem as the last few races where I had to ride with painkillers. The starts were important again and in the first moto I messed up. My pace was improving when I had a stone come into my boot; something very strange that has never happened to me before. I had to stop and open the boot because it was hurting a lot. So, I lost a couple of positions that I then fought to regain. I enjoyed riding this weekend and made the most of a good start in the second moto. I caught Jorge but never really had the chance to pass him. 4th was OK and we’ll take the positive thing about my chest and ribs feeling better, which means we’ll hopefully be even more competitive in Arco.”

Pauls Jonass – P6

“Overall it has been a really good weekend in Spain. My riding was good, my bike was good, and I finally found that intensity that I needed in the early part of the races. I had the second fastest lap time in race two, so I know I have the speed and if it wasn’t for a little tip over early on in that second race then I know it could have been better. I feel like everything is really coming together now and I’m going to Italy aiming for the podium.”

Pauls Jonass
Pauls Jonass

Jeremy Seewer – P7

“Things are definitely improving for me. I struggled here in Spain last year on this track, so I feel that we’ve made a big improvement in terms of my riding and feeling on the track. Still, I hoped for more because I felt good and I had good speed and a good time in Timed Practice. I have something to work on in the first two turns because I get good starts, but it just seems that I am at the wrong place at the wrong time, so when I enter the first corner second, somehow in the chaos before turn two, I end up around sixth. After that, I pick it up quickly, but if you’re like me and not in top shape, it’s really hard to move forward to the front again because the racing is so close. You need to be 100%. I got solid points today. I did my best. I need to keep working on myself, keep pushing to improve my condition, and also with the team and the bike, we have some work to do to get back on the podium, so we will keep pushing.”

Brian Bogers – P9

“All day I felt great on my bike, and I had a good feeling on the track from the moment I went out for qualifying. Unfortunately, my start in race one wasn’t the best and I was struggling for around 20 minutes, but in the last 10 I felt really comfortable which gave a me good feeling for race two. My start wasn’t the best in the second moto either, but I managed to pass a lot of riders in the first few corners and rode a solid race to finish sixth. I was really happy with that one and now I’m much closer to the top 10 in the series so overall, it’s been a really positive day for me and the team.”

Thomas Kjer Olsen – P11

“It was a tough GP but overall, I’m quite happy with the end result just because of the feeling I had on the bike. In the first race I was able to move forward and felt great, making passes and I found some good lines as well which really helped. I did actually exert myself a little but too much in that one as for race two I felt strong, I just didn’t have that last little bit to push like I did in race one. I would say it was a solid weekend and now it’s onto Arco next weekend. I know that track really well so I’m looking forward to three GPs there.”

Thomas Kjer Olsen
Thomas Kjer Olsen

Glenn Coldenhoff – P13

“This morning we tried a few things and played with the set-up, but it was quite difficult with the limited time to do this. So, we didn’t get quite to where I wanted to be, but I tried my hardest. Every time I go out, I try my hardest. It felt okay in the first moto. I had a really good start. I was third and then moved to second. I had a few guys pass me and then I came together with Jeffrey (Herlings) and went down, so I only managed to finish 10th. My start was not as good in the second race, but still alright, and my riding and feeling was the same as in the first race. I also had another small crash and then was 14th. Honestly, not where I want to be or where we want to be. I am quite disappointed, but we will keep working hard to get back to where we should be.”

MXGP Standings

Pos Rider Nat. Bike Total
1 Herlings, J. NED KTM 505
2 Febvre, Romain FRA KAW 493
3 Gajser, Tim SLO HON 490
4 Prado, Jorge ESP KTM 440
5 Cairoli, A. ITA KTM 419
6 Seewer, Jeremy SUI YAM 373
7 Jonass, Pauls LAT GAS 352
8 Coldenhoff, G. NED YAM 302
9 Lupino, A. ITA KTM 233
10 Olsen, T. DEN HUS 220
11 Bogers, Brian NED GAS 209
12 Vlaanderen, C. NED YAM 203
13 Watson, Ben GBR YAM 197
14 Van Horebeek, J. BEL BET 156
15 Jacobi, Henry GER HON 135
16 Van doninck, B. BEL YAM 120
17 Tonus, Arnaud SUI YAM 112
18 Forato, A. ITA GAS 108
19 Strijbos, K. BEL YAM 98
20 Simpson, Shaun GBR KTM 91
21 Jasikonis, A. LTU HUS 87
22 Paturel, B. FRA HON 64
23 Monticelli, I. ITA KAW 54
24 Östlund, Alvin SWE YAM 50
25 Sterry, Adam GBR KTM 39
26 Locurcio, L. VEN KTM 35
27 Tixier, Jordi FRA KTM 33
28 Koch, Tom GER KTM 30
29 Brylyakov, V. MFR HON 30
30 Genot, Cyril BEL KTM 15
31 Guillod, V. SUI YAM 13
32 Gilbert, Josh GBR HUS 10
33 Bobryshev, E. MFR HUS 6
34 van Berkel, L. NED HON 5
35 Clochet, Jimmy FRA BET 4
36 Watson, Nathan GBR HON 4
37 Butron, Jose ESP KTM 4
38 Desprey, M. FRA YAM 3
39 Roosiorg, H. EST KTM 1
40 Gole, Anton SWE HUS 1
41 Lesiardo, M. ITA HON 1
42 Kellett, Todd GBR YAM 1
x Dunlop Gen Web Banner
Moto News Weekly proudly brought to you by Dunlop

Maxime Renaux tops MX2 – Beaton on the podium

In MX2, only two-points separated Maxime Renaux and Tom Vialle, 47-45 points, while Australia’s Jed Beaton completing the podium. Wilson Todd also made an appearance inside the top ten, in ninth.

Renaux holds a significant lead on 535-points, with Jago Geerts and Mattia Guadagnini separated by a single point in second and third respectively, 427 to 426.

MX2 Race 1

The first MX2 race of the day saw Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Tom Vialle secured another Fox Holeshot as he led the way ahead of his teammate Mattia Guadagnini, Renaux and Isak Gifting of DIGA PROCROSS GasGas Factory Racing.

2021 MXGP of Spain
2021 MXGP of Spain

Renaux was quick to get into second, as his teammate Jago Geerts of Monster Energy Yamaha Factory Racing started applying the pressure onto Guadagnini for third but came short.

Home rider Ruben Fernandez of Honda 114 Motorsports started well inside the top 10 and was going after Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s Jed Beaton and later Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Rene Hofer. Beaton continued to move up the order as the race went on, getting by Gifting for fifth, who had dropped a few positions by that point.

Jed Beaton
Jed Beaton

Renaux then caught onto the rear wheel of Vialle, who was able to respond quickly and take the gap back up to 2.275 seconds, as Geerts dropped back to 13th. A couple of laps later, Renaux was back onto Vialle for the win as just 0.882 separated the pair, but again Vialle was able to respond and preserve that lead.

Fernandez was keen on putting on a good performance for the fans as he chased Simon Längenfelder of DIGA PROCROSS GasGas Factory Racing, eventually making the pass for eighth position. He was able to pass one more rider before the chequered flag fell to finish the race seventh.

Jago Geerts
Jago Geerts

Meanwhile Geerts found himself in trouble again, as he crashed out of 11th position, eventually finishing the race 13th which was costly for the championship.

At the top end of the field Renaux was keeping close to Vialle, but then lost a load of time on the KTM rider as the gap increased to 9.591 seconds. And while Vialle led Renaux, Guadagnini was having a pretty lonely race in third, as Beaton kept it steady in fourth ahead of Hofer.

Mattia Guadagnini
Mattia Guadagnini

His teammate, Kay de Wolf of Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing had a nice battle with Gifting for a few laps, before making a pass stick and finishing the race in sixth.

In the end, Vialle secured the race victory 6.972 seconds in front of Renaux, with Guadagnini third.

MX2 Race 2

In race two, Vialle continued to assert his dominance in the starts as he got another Fox Holeshot with Geerts and Guadagnini just behind. Renaux was there too as he got around Guadagnini for third, while Geerts took the lead from Vialle.

Kay de Wolf
Kay de Wolf

Guadagnini came under more pressure as both Beaton and de Wolf got by the Italian pushing him down to sixth, but the KTM rider was able to retaliate and take back a spot from de Wolf not long after. The Dutchman then crashed and dropped out of sixth.

Renaux set the fastest lap of the race as he caught onto Vialle for second, while Guadagnini went down trying to get around Beaton.

Rene Hofer
Rene Hofer

Fernandez had another top 10 start in the second heat and was making good progress up the field. He eventually fought his way back up to fifth and that’s where he would also finish the race.

On lap nine, Renaux took second from Vialle and then it was a Yamaha 1-2 as Geerts led Renaux by 2.495 as the Frenchman worked away at the gap to the Belgian. By lap 13 we saw a change for the lead as Renaux jumped into first position.

Maxime Renaux
Maxime Renaux and Jago Geerts

But the race was far from over, as Vialle had both Renaux and Geerts in his sights with four minutes plus two laps on the clock. The top three were then just within 2.401 seconds of each other. Vialle might have pushed too hard as he went down but was lucky to not lose any positions.

In the end, Renaux secured his 7th race win of the season, with Geerts crossing the line in second and Vialle finishing third. With a 2-1 result, Renaux took to the top step of the podium, as Vialle was forced to settle for second ahead of Beaton who had another solid day, going 4-4 for third on the podium.

Tom Vialle
Tom Vialle

Renaux continues to lead the MX2 standings with a healthy 108-point vantage over Geerts, while Guadagnini is just one point behind in third.

MXGP of Spain – MX2 Overall

Pos Rider Nat. Bike R1 R2 Total
1 Renaux, Maxime FRA YAM 22 25 47
2 Vialle, Tom FRA KTM 25 20 45
3 Beaton, Jed AUS HUS 18 18 36
4 Guadagnini, Mattia ITA KTM 20 13 33
5 Hofer, Rene AUT KTM 16 15 31
6 Geerts, Jago BEL YAM 8 22 30
7 Fernandez, Ruben ESP HON 14 16 30
8 Benistant, Thibault FRA YAM 12 14 26
9 Todd, Wilson AUS KAW 10 11 21
10 Laengenfelder, Simon GER GAS 11 10 21
11 Haarup, Mikkel DEN KAW 6 12 18
12 de Wolf, Kay NED HUS 15 3 18
13 Mewse, Conrad GBR KTM 9 8 17
14 Rubini, Stephen FRA HON 7 9 16
15 Gifting, Isak SWE GAS 13 0 13
16 Facchetti, Gianluca ITA KTM 2 7 9
17 Pancar, Jan SLO KTM 1 6 7
18 Boegh Damm, Bastian DEN KTM 3 4 7
19 Farres, Guillem ESP GAS 4 2 6
20 Horgmo, Kevin NOR GAS 0 5 5
21 Adamo, Andrea ITA GAS 5 0 5
22 Polak, Petr CZE YAM 0 1 1

Maxime Renaux – P1

“It feels really good, and I am really happy with the day. The first race was good. I took a good start and tried to stick with Tom, but he wasn’t making any mistakes. He was riding really good. So, I couldn’t find any gaps and was able to satisfy myself with my position. Second race was really good. Had a good start again. I was third behind Jago and Tom then I could find the spot to make a pass happen and I went for it. As you said, it was a confidence boost. Really happy to be back at the top of the podium. So, everything is going really well, good advantage on the championship as well, getting good points. I just need to stay focused till the end and it will be good.”

Tom Vialle – P2

“It was a special day. The first race was pretty good, I had a great feeling on the bike and everything was fine. Another great start in the second race, but I just did not feel so good. Jago passed me in the first lap, I tried to follow him, then Maxime also passed me in the same place I believe. I felt better at the end and tried to pass Jago, then I crashed, so It was not a good race for me but I am pretty happy with how it finished. It’s not easy to win every race every weekend, you also need to accept coming second but I will try to be back at the top in the next race. I have closed the gap in the championship because Jago and Mattia didn’t have a great race today. So, the goal is to finish second if I can and always do my best.”

Tom Vialle
Tom Vialle

Jed Beaton – P3

“It was a pretty solid day. Quite happy I did not end up 4th. I have been finishing fourth a lot lately. But that’s on me. I need to be up there right from the start with these guys, because when I miss the start, I don’t put myself in a position to fight with them. They’re already 10 seconds ahead, which makes it impossible. Again, that’s on me and I need to work on that. The start is one of the most important things in Trentino and it won’t be easy to pass. But I will get going and hopefully put myself in a great position with a good start.”

Mattia Guadagnini – P4

“The day started quite badly with a big crash in Free Practice and I had to change the bike and wasn’t feeling too good, especially in Timed Practice. I had a good start in the first race and although I made an error and [Maxime] Renaux past me I ran some decent lines. It was a pretty lonely race in 3rd. I went too wide in the first corner of the second moto but too many mistakes, especially when I was trying to pass [Jed] Beaton for the podium. I jumped too long and lost control of the bike. I then tried not to lose many points and 8th was OK, even though I’m not happy with that second race. I should have been on the podium. We’re close for second in the championship and we’ll have plenty of home races now.”

Rene Hofer – P5

“A solid day: nothing more, nothing less. It was all about the position after the first lap. In both motos I got stuck behind some guys almost stopped in the ruts and lost a few places. My speed was good. I cannot be too disappointed. Perhaps I need to make some better line choices on the first laps. It was difficult to get a flow in the ruts here. Anyway, some decent points for the championship and we’ll try again next weekend.”

Rene Hofer
Rene Hofer

Jago Geerts – P6

“The first race today was just really difficult. My pace was not too bad, but honestly, I didn’t feel too good on the bike. Then I had two really stupid crashes. I hit a hay bale in one and then crashed on my own. In the second heat I was close to the holeshot and then almost led the whole race, but then Maxime (Renaux) passed me. I tried to pass him back on the last lap but, in the end, couldn’t make it happen. Overall, I felt much better on the bike. My speed was good, so hopefully it stays like this for the next races.”

Thibault Benistant – P8

“My day was not easy, but better than the last one. My riding was good, I felt great on the bike. I struggled a little bit off the start, so I had to work hard and give my all to come back. I made some nice passes today. Physically I felt good, and I also felt good on the bike too. So, I know I just need a good start and then I can stay upfront.”

Thibault Benistant
Thibault Benistant

Simon Langenfelder – P10

“It’s been another good GP for me and I’m happy with my weekend and to be back inside the top 10 overall is where I should always be. I had a strange start in the first race, my jump from the gate was bad but I was able to get the power down and I came out of the first turn around fifth or sixth. I was a little surprised, but I’ll take it! I didn’t quite get the same start in race two and ended up 11th which was ok but overall, but it’s nice to put two motos together and go into the triple header in Arco with this positive result.”

Kay de Wolf – P12

“I was putting together a pretty decent GP but in the second one I had a pretty big crash and broke my nose. It was a struggle for the last two laps, and I ended up 18th for three points which may prove to be really important at the end of the season. After finishing sixth in race one I was confident of doing the same in race two, but crashes happen and it’s frustrating. Overall, I’m ok and I’ll be doing everything I can to be ready for next weekend.”

MX2 Standings

Pos Rider Nat. Bike Total
1 Renaux, Maxime FRA YAM 535
2 Geerts, Jago BEL YAM 427
3 Guadagnini, M. ITA KTM 426
4 Vialle, Tom FRA KTM 417
5 Beaton, Jed AUS HUS 395
6 Hofer, Rene AUT KTM 364
7 Benistant, T. FRA YAM 362
8 de Wolf, Kay NED HUS 331
9 Fernandez, R. ESP HON 292
10 Laengenfelder, S. GER GAS 230
11 Todd, Wilson AUS KAW 227
12 Boisrame, M. FRA KAW 223
13 Haarup, Mikkel DEN KAW 209
14 Van De Moosdijk, R. NED KAW 190
15 Gifting, Isak SWE GAS 183
16 Adamo, Andrea ITA GAS 163
17 Mewse, Conrad GBR KTM 129
18 Rubini, S. FRA HON 120
19 Pancar, Jan SLO KTM 99
20 Boegh Damm, B. DEN KTM 97
21 Polak, Petr CZE YAM 54
22 Facchetti, G. ITA KTM 45
23 Florian, Lion GER KTM 29
24 Horgmo, Kevin NOR GAS 26
25 Meier, Glen DEN KTM 26
26 Teresak, Jakub CZE KTM 18
27 Everts, Liam BEL KTM 15
28 Sandner, M. AUT KTM 15
29 Brumann, Kevin SUI YAM 14
30 Dickinson, A. GBR KTM 11
31 Hammal, Taylor GBR KAW 10
32 Goupillon, P. FRA KTM 10
33 Tropepe, G. ITA HUS 7
34 Wagenknecht, J. CZE KTM 7
35 Farres, G. ESP GAS 6
36 Lata, Valerio ITA KTM 6
37 Weckman, Emil FIN HON 6
38 Olsson, Filip SWE HUS 6
39 Scuteri, E. ITA TM 4
40 Petrashin, T. MFR KTM 4
41 Rizzi, Joel GBR HON 2
42 Congost, G. ESP YAM 2
43 Renkens, N. BEL KTM 2
44 Ludwig, Noah GER KTM 1
45 Nordström Graaf, A. SWE YAM 1

Ivano Van Erp tops EMX125 in Spain

Round five of the EMX125 Presented by FMF Racing championship has concluded in Arroyomolinos as Ivano Van Erp of Yamaha Europe EMX125 MJC went on to take the overall victory at the Spanish round of the series.

Ivano Van Erp
Ivano Van Erp

EMX Race 1

In the first EMX125 Presented by FMF Racing heat, it was Julius Mikula who got into an early lead ahead of Alexis Fueri of Fantic Factory Team Maddii, Scott Smulders of No Fear / Jumbo BT Racing Team and Karlis Alberts Reisulis of Yamaha Europe EMX125 MJC. Meanwhile the series leader Valerio Lata of MRT Racing Team KTM started in around 23rd position.

Nicolas Duhamel of Team VHR KTM Racing started well in fourth ahead of Kay Karssemakers of Husqvarna SKS Racing NL. Smulders was looking to take over the lead as Duhamel got into second.

Bobby Bruce passing Manuel Carreras Lopez
Bobby Bruce passing Manuel Carreras Lopez

Mikula then led Duhamle, Smulders and Edgar Canet from RFME GasGas MX Junior Team, as Van Erp got around Bobby Bruce of ASA United GasGas Racing Team for fifth. Lucas Coenen of 9MM Energy Drink Bud Racing Kawasaki also got around Bruce, as the Brit dropped down to sixth.

The action within the top 10 was extremely close, as riders traded positions and battled intensely. Meanwhile further down the field, Lata ran into some troubles just as he was getting back within the top 10 and as a result fell to 32nd.

Duhamel was another rider to crash, which allowed Canet to get all over the back wheel of Mikula and challenge the Czech rider for the lead. As Canet took over first position, Mikula came under more pressure from Van Erp who moved into second and set his sights on the win. It took three laps for Van Erp to make a pass for the lead.

Lucas Coenen picked up his pace as he started to make good passes to move up the order. The Belgian then caught up with Bruce and was able to get around him for third. It took a few laps, but Coenen also caught up with Canet and took second from the Spaniard with four laps remaining.

Van Erp went on to win the race ahead of Coenen and Canet.

EMX Race 2

In race two, it was Pablo Gutierrez who took the holeshot from Nicolo Turaglio, Lata and Smulders. Lata was keen on making up for the 18th place finish in race one as he was quick to get around Turaglio and move into second.

Valerio Lata
Valerio Lata

Bruce and Karssemakers started the race in ninth and 10th, while Sacha Coenen of 9MM Energy Drink Bud Racing Kawasaki also started well in fourth. His brother Lucas Coenen was inside the top 10 too, but later crashed and dropped way down the order.

Gutierrez continued to lead Lata by 5.153 seconds, as Smulders dropped a few positions and then later made a mistake which allowed Bruce to move up to sixth. The GasGas rider then picked up another position as Van Erp went off track. Xavier Cazal from Team VHR KTM Racing was the next right in his sights, and he was able to also pass him and get into fourth place.

As Lata took the lead, further down the order, Lucas Coenen began his comeback as he got himself into 14th place, while his brother Sacha Coenen was getting in the mix with Lata and Gutierrez, gaining ground on both riders ahead. The Kawasaki rider was on track for his first podium finish, but his day ended in a DNF.

Lata then got ahead by 4.458 seconds over Gutierrez as Bruce picked up his pace and caught up with the Spanish rider. He needed to push hard but ultimately was able to get the job done to finish the race second behind Lata who was the race winner.

With a 1-4 result, Van Erp bagged himself his second overall victory of the season, with Bruce placing second overall and Lucas Coenen securing his third consecutive podium after coming back to eighth place in the second race.

Despite not finishing on the podium, Lata still leads the championship with an 11-point advantage over Bruce. Karssemakers is third just five points behind.

Ivano Van Erp

“It’s unbelievable. Two not-so-good starts. I came from 10th in the first one, I think. I was then able to take the lead after 15 minutes, which was very nice. In the second race, I believe I was 7th or 8th at the start, and I came from behind but also made a small mistake. I had to keep going and I saw on the pit board after 20 minutes that I had the overall, so I kept my focus and won the overall again. I train a lot, so I believe I can do it again. It’s a great feeling. I hope to get three great races in Trentino, we head there, and we’ll see what it brings. Thank you to everyone, my fans, family and sponsors.”

EMX125 Presented by FMF Racing – Overall Top 10 Classification

1. Ivano Van Erp (NED, YAM), 43 points; 2. Bobby Bruce (GBR, GAS), 40 p.; 3. Lucas Coenen (BEL, KAW), 35 p.; 4. Pablo Gutierrez (ESP, GAS), 29 p.; 5. Kay Karssemakers (NED, HUS), 29 p.; 6. Valerio Lata (ITA, KTM), 28 p.; 7. Xavier Cazal (FRA, KTM), 27 p.; 8. Scott Smulders (NED, HUS), 27 p.; 9. Julius Mikula (CZE, KTM), 26 p.; 10. Karlis Alberts Reisulis (LAT, YAM), 25 p.;

EMX125 Presented by FMF Racing – Championship Top 10 Classification

1. Valerio Lata (ITA, KTM), 174 points; 2. Bobby Bruce (GBR, GAS), 163 p.; 3. Kay Karssemakers (NED, HUS), 158 p.; 4. Lucas Coenen (BEL, KAW), 119 p.; 5. Ivano Van Erp (NED, YAM), 117 p.; 6. Scott Smulders (NED, HUS), 115 p.; 7. Sacha Coenen (BEL, KAW), 110 p.; 8. Marc-Antoine Rossi (FRA, KTM), 106 p.; 9. Ferruccio Zanchi (ITA, YAM), 101 p.; 10. Haakon Osterhagen (NOR, FAN), 95 p.;

x Dunlop Gen Web Banner
Moto News Weekly proudly brought to you by Dunlop

Scharinger earns European Junior eMX #1 plate

Having got to grips with the demands and characteristics of intu-Xanadú Arroyomolinos the previous day for round four, the 25 youngsters contesting the final round of the series were back making laps around a special section of the MXGP layout for their last spin of the season.

Tobias Scharinger tops the Junior eMX podium

Hot sunshine beat down on the venue that was packed full of fans and spectators. The junior e-motocrossers loaded the gate with KTM SX-E 5, Husqvarna Motorcycles EE 5 and the GASGAS MC-E 5 electric machinery and the competition between Tobias Scharinger, Spaniard Eleu Jose and Austrian Elias Eder was particularly close.

In the first race of the day Scharinger, riding a Husqvarna Motorcycles EE 5, was able to defeat French junior Timotei Cez by more than three seconds. Jordan Cadenel was 3rd after the initial 7 minutes and 1 lap chase. In the afternoon and through deeper and bumpier ruts, Austria’s Scharinger had his hands full with rapid Spanish KTM SX-E 5 racer Logan Liberal Rodas. The native rider was able to pull away in the final two laps to stretch a five-second margin over Scharinger who went 2-1 on the day and therefore earned the overall victory as well as ownership of the series.

Scharinger will receive a brand-new motorcycle as his prize, and all participants in the full schedule will have a testing and training opportunity this winter with an MXGP factory team. During the campaign the champion and Eleu Jose split the spoils between them: Scharinger was quickest in Italy and the Spanish double while Jose ruled in Germany and France.

Tobias Scharinger

“My bike is a lot of fun and I really liked being able to ride on the MXGP tracks. It was great to win the series and I am really happy.”

As a showcase for the performance of KTM, Husqvarna Motorcycles and GASGAS electric motocross machinery and a staging point for the raw ability and enthusiasm of junior racers in an elite environment, the European Junior e-Motocross Series has been a notable success.

The first edition was initially oversubscribed and saw a spread of ages, nationalities and riders from both genders take part. Details for the 2022 edition will be released in the coming months.

Source: MCNews.com.au

Moto Wrap | AFT | MXGP | EMX | TrialGP | Speedway | AORC | GNCC

Moto News Weekly Wrap
October 13, 2020

x Dunlop Gen Web Banner
Moto News Weekly proudly brought to you by Dunlop

2020 Charlotte Half-Mile I

Images by Scott Hunter

Due to prolonged periods of precipitation, the 2020 Charlotte Half-Mile II was cancelled, leaving the Charlotte Half-Mile I as the only round run over the weekend.

Super Twins

Privateer Jeffrey Carver Jr. was in full spoiler mode at the Dirt Track at Charlotte Motor Speedway, claiming his fourth-career Progressive American Flat Track premier-class victory in Friday night’s Progressive Charlotte Half-Mile I.

Jeffrey Carver Jr.
Jeffrey Carver Jr.

The opening half of the AFT SuperTwins presented by Vance & Hines Main Event took shape in expected fashion, matching up Grand National Championship title rivals Jared Mees and Briar Bauman.

Mees controlled from the front with reigning champion and current points leader Bauman not far behind as the two left the rest of the field in their wake. However, a red flag that was shown following a Davis Fisher crash changed the complexion of the race entirely.

Jared Mees, Briar Bauman

The restart brought Bauman back close enough to pounce on Mees and the two proceeded to trade the lead back and forth repeatedly, with an extended series of block passes and square-up maneuvers. The factory Indian infighting opened the door for a charging Carver, who erased the gap from third, slid past both Mees and Bauman, and then dropped them both as they continued their scrap in second.

Mees finally got away from Bauman’s clutches and saw a golden opportunity to take his third win in a row and put Carver between himself and his rival. He reeled back up to the leader’s rear wheel as the race entered its final two laps, but just couldn’t find any way around the hungry Carver.

Charlotte Half Mile I SuperTwins
Charlotte Half Mile I SuperTwins
Jeffrey Carver Jr.

“This is a whole collective effort… It just means so much, when I go through the GoFundMe and all the other different stuff people have been donating to get us out here. We are the privateers coming up and going after the big-money teams. My team does not get paid. I pay for the travel and the expenses and everyone just takes their time out to help, and it just means so much. For me to put the time in and be hands-on and work on the motorcycle and be all a part of it – that keeps me in tune with the motorcycle and the whole effort. I’m just having so much fun out there. It’s amazing.”

While he couldn’t reap the full benefits of what he hoped to achieve, Mees still made up some ground on Bauman in the championship fight. After finishing second and third, respectively, Mees is now just nine points back of Bauman (273-264) with three races left to determine this year’s GNC.

Jeffrey Carver Jr. claimed the win from Jared Mees and Briar Bauman
Jeffrey Carver Jr. claimed the win from Jared Mees and Briar Bauman

Fourth-placed Brandon Robinson and fifth-placed Sammy Halbert completed the top five.

AFT Super Twins Results

POS RIDER BIKE INTERVAL
1 Jeffrey Carver Jr. Indian FTR750 39 Laps
2 Jared Mees Indian FTR750 +0.509
3 Briar Bauman Indian FTR750 +3.948
4 Brandon Robinson Indian FTR750 +4.982
5 Sammy Halbert Indian FTR750 +5.633
6 Robert Pearson Indian FTR750 +6.446
7 Jake Johnson Indian FTR750 +9.939
8 Dan Bromley Indian FTR750 +10.611
9 Brandon Price Indian FTR750 +12.315
10 Bronson Bauman Indian FTR750 +12.477
11 Davis Fisher Indian FTR750 +16.325
12 Andrew Luker Indian FTR750 +18.988
13 JD Beach Yamaha MT-07 +19.718
14 Dalton Gauthier HD XG750R 38 Laps
15 Larry Pegram Indian FTR750 +7.996
16 Jay Maloney Indian FTR750 +12.206
17 Jarod Vanderkooi HD XG750R 33 Laps
18 Bryan Smith HD XG750R 4 Laps

AFT Super Twins Standings

Pos. Rider Total
1 Briar Bauman 273
2 Jared Mees 264
3 Sammy Halbert 207
4 Bronson Bauman 162
5 Brandon Robinson 158
6 Brandon Price 158
7 Jeffrey Carver Jr. 156
8 Davis Fisher 127
9 Jarod Vanderkooi 110
10 Robert Pearson 104
11 Dan Bromley 104
12 Bryan Smith 95
13 Dalton Gauthier 95
14 Jake Johnson 74
15 JD Beach 74
16 Larry Pegram 52
17 Kolby Carlile 50
18 Jay Maloney 46
19 Andrew Luker 29
20 Ryan Varnes 16
21 Morgen Mischler 6

AFT Singles

The dominant Dallas Daniels was crowned 2020 AFT Singles presented by Russ Brown Motorcycle Attorneys Champion in style on Friday night, the 17-year-old phenom officially putting the points race out of reach with a victorious final-lap pass.

Dallas Daniels & Max Whale
Dallas Daniels & Max Whale

With Henry Wiles out of commission due to an injured back, Max Whale was the sole rider remaining with a chance at pushing Daniels’ title quest back another day. The Australian rode motivated too, leading early and battling desperately throughout.

He wasn’t alone in trying to keep Daniels off the top of the box; Cole Zabala, Morgen Mischler, and Trent Lowe all threw their best efforts at the champion-in-waiting as a five-rider showdown developed in the hard-fought Main Event.

Mischler appeared set to get his revenge for last weekend’s narrow defeat as the clocks approached 0:00. He opened up a bit of breathing space while Daniels was caught up scrapping with Zabala over second.

Dallas Daniels & Max Whale
Dallas Daniels & Max Whale

Once the race went into its decisive last two laps, however, Daniels rose to the occasion. He put Zabala behind him and tracked Mischler back down, diving through on the last lap to earn his eighth race win of an incredible season.

Daniels’ championship-winning victory was also his sixth in succession. As a result, he now boasts an unassailable 80-point advantage with three races to go.

Dallas Daniels

“It was a really long day, and it’s been a long road coming since not making that Main Event at (the season-opening) Volusia. There were a lot of headaches that night, just wondering if I was meant to do this. I tried not to stress today, but it’s hard trying to win your first championship. The track was so fast and so physically demanding. It’s just awesome. We struggled a little bit early on today, but we figured it out. It was kind of the same thing as Atlanta — me and Morgen. It was a good race. We could run anywhere — I’m sure the fans loved it. But the main goal was to win this thing right here, and that’s what we did. Big thanks to the whole team. There are so many people behind this, and I wish I could thank them all.”

Dallas Daniels won the Singles Main Event from
Dallas Daniels won the Singles Main Event from Morgan Mischler and Cole Zabala

Mischler finished just 0.067 back of Daniels in second, with Zabala another 0.097 seconds in arrears in third. Whale held on for fourth while Lowe rounded out the top five, only a tick over a half second off the win.

Max Whale

“Qualified on the pole this weekend in Charlotte, but ended up running fourth in the main, it was an awesome race. Disappointed that Saturday was a rain out but to stoked to be coming away second in the Championship. Congrats to D allasDaniels. Looking forward to Daytona this weekend. Once again I’d like to thank all the people that help me.”

AFT Singles Results

POS RIDER BIKE INTERVAL
1 Dallas Daniels Yamaha YZ450F 26 Laps
2 Morgen Mischler KTM 450 SX-F +0.067
3 Cole Zabala Honda CRF450R +0.164
4 Max Whale Kawasaki KX450F +0.201
5 Trent Lowe Honda CRF450R +0.561
6 Tanner Dean Honda CRF450R +4.225
7 James Ott KTM 450 SX-F +4.373
8 Brandon Kitchen KTM 450 SX-F +4.494
9 Trevor Brunner Honda CRF450R +5.995
10 Jacob Lehmann Honda CRF450R +7.539
11 Michael Inderbitzin Honda CRF450R +7.792
12 Wyatt Anderson KTM 450 SX-F +9.69
13 Aidan RoosEvans KTM 450 SX-F +10.842
14 Michael Rush Yamaha YZ450F +12.785
15 Blake Lomas KTM 450 SX-F +13.73
16 Kevin Stollings Honda CRF450R +13.762
17 Shayna Texter KTM 450 SX-F +16.04

AFT Singles Standings

Pos Rider Total
1 Dallas Daniels 258
2 Max Whale 178
3 Henry Wiles 163
4 Morgen Mischler 159
5 Michael Rush 156
6 Trent Lowe 153
7 Brandon Kitchen 149
8 Tanner Dean 137
9 Trevor Brunner 113
10 Michael Inderbitzin 105
11 Chad Cose 104
12 Shayna Texter 91
13 Cole Zabala 82
14 Kevin Stollings 74
15 Cameron Smith 73

AFT Production Twins

Cory Texter took a huge step toward achieving his short-term goal of taking the 2020 AFT Production Twins title fight down to next weekend’s season finale with a timely victory in Charlotte.

Cory Texter
Cory Texter

The defending class champion sprinted into the lead at the start and never looked back, leading all 27 circulations of the eight-minute plus two lap Main Event.

After getting a poor launch, championship leader James Rispoli worked his way into second in rapid order. However, after failing to make serious inroads on race leader Texter, Rispoli was forced to turn his attention to fending off the similarly XG-armed Chad Cose.

Cory Texter
Cory Texter

Rispoli put up a good fight but finally relinquished the position with two minutes remaining, and once through, Cose immediately left him behind. But by the time he worked his way into second, Cose was a second-and-a-half back of Texter. Though he closed the gap down to around a second with a focused charge, Texter wicked it back up in response and stretched his advantage back up to 1.740 seconds at the checkered flag.

In fact, Cose actually came under fire from a rolling Ben Lowe, who fought his way up from a distant fourth to zap Rispoli and make a last-gasp challenge for second on Cose. The two actually split a lapper on the final lap in their struggle for the runner-up spot, with Lowe coming out worse in the exchange.

Patrick Buchanan
Patrick Buchanan

Rispoli finished fourth, just the second time all season he’s been off the box, while Danny Eslick edged Ryan Varnes to complete the top five.

Despite Rispoli’s relative struggles on Friday night, he still holds a commanding 38-point advantage over Texter (284-246) with just three races remaining.

Corey Texter

“We still have a big gap, but it was a great race. I’m going to keep fighting until the end. I know the points gap is pretty wide but I don’t quit — I’m going to keep digging. I’m going to try to rack off some wins here.”

Cory Texter
Cory Texter wins from Chad Cose and Ben Lowe

AFT Production Twins Results

POS RIDER BIKE INTERVAL
1 Cory Texter Yamaha MT-07 27 Laps
2 Chad Cose HD XG750R +1.74
3 Ben Lowe Yamaha MT-07 +2.091
4 James Rispoli HD XG750R +3.919
5 Danny Eslick Kawasaki Ninja 650 +7.434
6 Ryan Varnes Kawasaki Ninja 650 +8.255
7 Cody Johncox Yamaha MT-07 +16.773
8 Jeremiah Duffy Kawasaki Ninja 650 +16.991
9 Shelby Miller Kawasaki Ninja 650 25 Laps
10 Jeremiah Alexander Kawasaki Ninja 650 +0.021
11 Garret Wilson Kawasaki Ninja 650 +8.142
12 Patrick Buchanan Kawasaki Ninja 650 19 Laps
13 Dylan Bell HD XG750R 15 Laps
14 Gary Ketchum Kawasaki Ninja 650 8 Laps
15 Johnny Lewis Royal Enfield 650 2 Laps
16 Jimmy McAllister Kawasaki Ninja 650 DNS

AFT Production Twins Standings

Pos Rider Total
1 James Rispoli 285
2 Cory Texter 247
3 Ben Lowe 206
4 Ryan Varnes 199
5 Danny Eslick 179
6 Chad Cose 175
7 Jeremiah Duffy 141
8 Cody Johncox 109
9 Nick Armstrong 101
10 Jimmy McAllister 63
11 Dylan Bell 60
12 Michael Inderbitzin 58
13 Patrick Buchanan 58
14 Brock Schwarzenbacher 52
15 Mitch Harvat 52
16 Garret Wilson 49
17 Hayden Gillim 45
18 Johnny Lewis 34
19 Morgen Mischler 26
20 Scott Barrett 26
21 Jacob Lehmann 25
22 Ryan Wells 22
23 Jeremiah Alexander 22
24 Gary Ketchum 19
25 Shelby Miller 11
26 Kevin Stollings 9
27 Max Whale 9

x Dunlop Gen Web Banner
Moto News Weekly proudly brought to you by Dunlop

Toni Bou wins TrialGP championship in Italy

Repsol Honda Team’s Toni Bou has been crowned world champion at the TrialGP event in Italy. The occasion marks a 14th outdoor title – adding to the previous 14 indoor titles – taking his overall top-flight championship tally to a whopping 28.

Toni Bou claims another TrialGP championship title
Toni Bou claims another TrialGP championship title

In Lazzate, Italy, the Repsol Honda Team rider mathematically sealed yet another world championship title, the fourteenth of his career. Bou’s title came earlier than expected with one remaining season date still to complete. Once again, it was a race dominated by Bou, whose results this season now include five wins, a second and third place. These results – together with those of his greatest rival – guarantee the title, with the champion adding even more silverware to an already packed trophy cabinet.

Toni Bou
Toni Bou

The season began with a battle against the pandemic, which had forced a major overhaul of the scheduled championship calendar and limited the amount of pre-season training that Repsol Honda Team riders were able to do. Things worsened with an arm injury picked up in the opening round of the world championship. Yet, in spite of everything, Toni Bou faced and was able to overcome these adversities, going on to clinch the championship title in Italy.

Toni Bou wrapped up the short 2020 TrialGP World Championship, taking top honours in the second Italian TrialGP (Round 8) also held in Lazzate, Italy.

Toni Bou

“I am super happy with the weekend here in Italy. Today, after winning the title yesterday, I was able to enjoy a splendid day with some fairly good riding, especially on the third lap which brought out the best of me and I only picked up two marks. Thank you all for this perfect season.”

Toni Bou topped the Round 8 podium
Toni Bou topped the Round 8 podium

Matteo Grattarola was also proclaimed World Champion in the Trial2 category, and with a victory on the first day, he got the title one race in advance.

2020 TrialGP Italy Round 7 Results

Pos. Rider Team Nation L1 L2 L3 T3 Points Champ
1 BOU Toni Repsol Honda Team SPA 21 7 9 2 39 20
2 CASALES Jorge Gas Gas Factory Team SPA 32 16 11 2 61 17
3 BUSTO Jaime Vertigo Factory Team SPA 26 15 23 2 66 15
4 FUJINAMI Takahisa Repsol Honda Team JPN 33 14 23 0 70 13
5 FAJARDO Jeroni Sherco Factory Team SPA 42 15 16 0 73 11
6 MARCELLI Gabriel RG Team SPA 33 19 19 2 73 10
7 RAGA Adam TRRS Factory Team SPA 28 32 13 2 75 9
8 GELABERT Miquel Gas Gas SPA 40 17 19 3 79 8
9 DABILL James Beta Factory Racing GBR 31 31 18 0 80 7
10 PEACE Dan Sherco Factory Team GBR 48 47 30 0 125 6

2020 TrialGP Italy Round 8 Results

Pos. Rider Team Nation L1 L2 L3 T3 Points Champ
1 BOU Toni Repsol Honda Team SPA 11 7 2 0 20 20
2 FAJARDO Jeroni Sherco Factory Team SPA 31 14 10 0 55 17
3 CASALES Jorge Gas Gas Factory Team SPA 22 21 17 1 61 15
4 MARCELLI Gabriel RG Team SPA 23 24 14 0 61 13
5 GELABERT Miquel Gas Gas SPA 31 21 9 0 61 11
6 RAGA Adam TRRS Factory Team SPA 20 22 21 0 63 10
7 BUSTO Jaime Vertigo Factory Team SPA 28 18 16 1 63 9
8 FUJINAMI Takahisa Repsol Honda Team JPN 31 27 20 0 78 8
9 DABILL James Beta Factory Racing GBR 40 26 22 0 88 7
10 PEACE Dan Sherco Factory Team GBR 45 48 43 0 136 6

2020 TrialGP Standings

Pos Rider Team Nat. Points
1 BOU Toni Repsol Honda Team SPA 152
2 RAGA Adam TRRS Factory Team SPA 121
3 BUSTO Jaime Vertigo Factory Team SPA 105
4 CASALES Jorge Gas Gas Factory Team SPA 98
5 FAJARDO Jeroni Sherco Factory Team SPA 82
6 MARCELLI Gabriel RG Team SPA 82
7 FUJINAMI Takahisa Repsol Honda Team JPN 78
8 GELABERT Miquel Gas Gas SPA 75
9 DABILL James Beta Factory Racing GBR 62
10 PEACE Dan Sherco Factory Team GBR 45
11 BINCAZ Benoit Beta Factory Racing FRA 42
12 PRICE Jack Vertigo Factory Team GBR 32

2020 MXGP of Spain

The weekend was the very first time the MXGP and MX2 riders got their chance to test out the hard-pack circuit in Arroyomolinos, which shaped up well and created some exciting races. The return of the Spanish Grand Prix saw Jorge Prado take a clear win from Tim Gajser and Romain Febvre in MXGP, claiming 50-points, while the runner ups had to settle for 42-a-piece.

As a result Prado closes in on Gajser, who still holds the championship lead on 441-points. Tony Cairoli is second overall on 417, while Jeremy Seewer is third on 396. Prado is fourth on 391, with injured Aussie Mitch Evans sitting in 11th with 228 points, despite being knocked out for the weekend.

Jorge Prado

“It’s a dream for all of us, Spanish guys. Winning in Spain or winning in your home country is always very special. It’s a pity we didn’t have the spectators but anyway to win on home soil it’s still incredible. After the last race in Mantova, I really did some training again, I’m making progress every week and that you can see in my racing so, I’m heading in a good direction and yeah it was just a perfect day. I’m getting closer . I started the season not that great but now I’m getting in shape and getting faster so hopefully in Lommel we can get some points.”

Jorge Prado
Jorge Prado

Mitch Evans had to retire from the first race at the MXGP of Spain due to a left wrist injury, which he sustained whilst running in fourth position. The Australian misjudged a landing and came down in an awkward position causing him to immediately pull off the race track. The Honda CRF450RW rider will now get further medical assessment in order to know the extent of the damage, which will then decide his plan for the rest of the season.

Mitch Evans

“Shitty day! Over jumped a double and the landing was so hard it blew both hands off the handle bars and broke my left wrist in the process. Gutted but that’s the way she goes sometimes. Looking at the positives, we came back once and we will do it again!”

Mitch Evans
Mitch Evans

MXGP Results – GP Overall

Pos Rider Nat. Bike R1 R2 Total
1 Prado, Jorge ESP KTM 25 25 50
2 Gajser, Tim SLO HON 20 22 42
3 Febvre, Romain FRA KAW 22 20 42
4 Coldenhoff, Glenn NED GAS 16 18 34
5 Desalle, Clement BEL KAW 18 14 32
6 Cairoli, Antonio ITA KTM 14 15 29
7 Seewer, Jeremy SUI YAM 11 16 27
8 Bogers, Brian NED KTM 13 13 26
9 Paulin, Gautier FRA YAM 15 11 26
10 Van Horebeek, Jeremy BEL HON 12 12 24
11 Tixier, Jordi FRA KTM 10 8 18
12 Monticelli, Ivo ITA GAS 8 9 17
13 Jacobi, Henry GER YAM 6 10 16
14 Vlaanderen, Calvin NED YAM 7 7 14
15 Guillod, Valentin SUI HON 9 5 14
16 Sterry, Adam GBR KTM 3 6 9
17 Petrov, Petar BUL KTM 4 4 8
18 Butron, Jose ESP KTM 5 3 8
19 Valentin, Ander ESP HUS 2 2 4
20 Guryev, Artem RUS HON 1 1 2
21 Walsh, Dylan GBR HON 0 0 0
22 Evans, Mitchell AUS HON 0 0 0

MXGP Standings

Pos Rider Nat. Bike Total
1 Gajser, Tim SLO HON 441
2 Cairoli, A. ITA KTM 417
3 Seewer, Jeremy SUI YAM 396
4 Prado, Jorge ESP KTM 391
5 Coldenhoff, G. NED GAS 375
6 Febvre, Romain FRA KAW 346
7 Paulin, G. FRA YAM 311
8 Desalle, C. BEL KAW 294
9 Herlings, J. NED KTM 263
10 Jasikonis, A. LTU HUS 248
11 Evans, M. AUS HON 228

x Dunlop Gen Web Banner
Moto News Weekly proudly brought to you by Dunlop

MX2 – MXGP of Spain

MX2 also saw a KTM rider claim the win, with Tom Vialle the front-runner, but not without a race 2 challenge from Jago Geerts, who was second overall. Vialle went 1-2, while Geert’s 5-1 result was enough for second overall. Thomas Kjer Olsen was third, while a strong first race in third for Jed Beaton, was followed by a Race 2 10th, for sixth overall. Bailey Malkiewicz finished 15th in Race 2 to collect six championship points.

Tom Vialle

“I don’t know, I was very comfortable with the bike but then bike stopped, and I took a little bit of time to start it again. But I was happy with my riding, I was feeling really comfortable in race two and the whole weekend. Actually, it was a really good day for the championship and now I’m only focused on the next races in Lommel in the sand and I’m happy. I feel really good because as you know is two years that I live there in Belgium, and I ride a lot in the sand.”

Tom Vialle
Tom Vialle

Vialle currently holds a significant championship lead with 525-points, with Geerts second on 473. Jed Beaton is third overal on 379-points, with Maxime Renaux nipping at his heels on 372.

Jed Beaton

“The day started off really well. I felt great in the first moto, track was fast, but it was coming around. I was in second and briefly led the race, which was good but I just wasn’t able to make another pass. I was confident going into race two. My speed and fitness are on point but going into the first turn a few of us came together and I had a pretty big crash… and smacked my head pretty hard, 15 mins into the race my vision started going all funny and the last four laps were just survival had a lot of sketchy moments not being able to see exactly where I was going… I was lucky to not be injured and it was disappointing, but I came back to 10th for sixth overall so, not bad for the championship. I’m still third so I’m hoping for two strong races next weekend.”

Jet Beaton
Jet Beaton

MX2 Results

Pos Rider Nat. Bike R1 R2 Total
1 Vialle, Tom FRA KTM 25 22 47
2 Geerts, Jago BEL YAM 16 25 41
3 Olsen, Thomas Kjer DEN HUS 22 14 36
4 Van De Moosdijk, Roan NED KAW 13 20 33
5 Renaux, Maxime FRA YAM 15 16 31
6 Beaton, Jed AUS HUS 20 11 31
7 Watson, Ben GBR YAM 12 15 27
8 Mewse, Conrad GBR KTM 18 9 27
9 Rubini, Stephen FRA HON 14 12 26
10 Gifting, Isak SWE GAS 10 13 23
11 Fernandez, Ruben ESP YAM 0 18 18
12 Forato, Alberto ITA HUS 11 7 18
13 Horgmo, Kevin NOR KTM 5 10 15
14 Vaessen, Bas NED KTM 6 8 14
15 Lesiardo, Morgan ITA HON 8 4 12
16 Sikyna, Richard SVK KTM 9 0 9
17 Östlund, Alvin SWE HON 3 5 8
18 Dickinson, Ashton GBR KTM 7 1 8
19 Malkiewicz, Bailey AUS HON 0 6 6
20 Pancar, Jan SLO KTM 1 3 4
21 Sandner, Michael AUT GAS 2 2 4
22 Renkens, Nathan BEL KTM 4 0 4

MX2 Standings

Pos Rider Nat. Bike Total
1 Vialle, Tom FRA KTM 525
2 Geerts, Jago BEL YAM 473
3 Beaton, Jed AUS HUS 379
4 Renaux, Maxime FRA YAM 372
5 Olsen, T. DEN HUS 347
6 Van De Moosdijk, R. NED KAW 326
7 Watson, Ben GBR YAM 314
8 Mewse, Conrad GBR KTM 279
9 Boisrame, M. FRA KAW 234
10 Fernandez, R. ESP YAM 226
11 Rubini, S. FRA HON 176
12 Östlund, Alvin SWE HON 149
13 Forato, A. ITA HUS 137
14 Haarup, Mikkel DEN KAW 118
15 Malkiewicz, B. AUS HON 92
16 Crawford, N. AUS HON 91

EMX250

As the gate dropped for the opening EMX250 race, it was Hutten Metaal Yamaha Racing’s Gianluca Facchetti who led the rest of the field into the first corner, with Kay de Wolf of Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing in second and Guadagnini third.

Series leader, Thibault Benistant of Hutten Metaal Yamaha Racing didn’t have the best start to the race, as he was down in 7th on the opening lap.

It didn’t take long for Guadagnini to go down the inside of de Wolf for second and then apply the pressure onto Facchetti for the lead. Though it took him a couple of laps to finally make the pass stick.

Tom Guyon from Team VRT Nordpesca Holland had a good start and was in fourth, though within a couple of laps he came under pressure from Tim Edberg and later Benistant, with both riders going through on the Frenchman.

On lap six, de Wolf was finally able to find a way to get around Facchetti for second, and Edberg followed too, as he launched past the Italian. This pushed Facchetti down to fifth.

Mattia Guadagnini
Mattia Guadagnini

Guadagnini then led by 10.788 seconds, with de Wolf and Benistant behind him. Not long after the gap was halved, as Guadagnini made a mistake and went down, though managed to hold on to that first place.

And while de Wolf and Benistant battled to get closer to the race leader, Pierre Goupillon and Lorenzo Locurcio from BUD Racing Kawasaki were locked in a close battle for sixth, as Hakon Fredriksen of Yamaha SM Action MC Migliori J1 Racing took ninth from Guyon.

Eventually, Guadagnini crossed the line to take his fifth consecutive race win, with de Wolf holding on to second and Benistant finishing third.

Race two saw Facchetti take the holeshot once again as he was closely followed by Guadagnini and de Wolf. Meanwhile, Benistant struggled once again in the mid-field, as he started the race in eighth.

This time around, Guadagnini wasted no time to get into the lead as he got around Facchetti on the opening lap. ASA United Husqvarna rider Jorgen-Matthias Talviku then moved himself into third, though crashed not long after and would drop down to 18th.

EMX250 Start
EMX250 Start

As the race progressed, De Wolf then lost third to Locurcio, while Benistant caught on to the back of the home rider, Oriol Oliver, to pass him for 5th place and then set his sights on de Wolf who was ahead.

Guadagnini then continued to lead Facchetti and Locurcio by 9.445 seconds, while Benistant was putting the work in to catch up to de Wolf and edge closer to the top 3. The pair were then locked in an incredibly close battle for the next few laps, with De Wolf having to ride defensive.

And this was not the only battle between the top 5, as Locurcio went after Facchetti for P2, which he managed to take with 3 laps on the clock. Things only continued to get tougher for the Italian, with the #22 crashing out with just one lap to go, and eventually finishing 4th in the race.

His teammate though had his eyes set on a podium finish, as he did his best to get around de Wolf and take 4th, but of course with Facchetti also crashing out, this moved him up another position which put him in 3rd.

In the end it was Guadagnini who won the race with an 8.695 second gap to Locurcio and Benistant finishing 3rd, just 4 seconds behind.

In terms of the overall, it was Mattia Guadagnini who claimed his 3rd consecutive overall victory, with Thibault Benistant taking to the 2nd step of the podium, while Kay de Wolf claimed the 3rd spot, making a comeback to the podium since Latvia.

With 2 rounds to go, things are getting interesting in the championship as just 18 points separate Benistant and Guadagnini – and with 100 points up for grabs over the next 2 rounds, things will be interesting heading into Lommel for the Belgian rounds.

Mattia Guadagnini

“It was almost a perfect day. I made a small mistake in the first race, but I had a good gap and I could take the win. Then I made a better start in the second race, took the lead on the first lap and then just took a good gap with no risks. One, one for my third overall victory, some good points for the championship so, we will see but for sure I will give my best. We are a little bit closer now so, I will give it my best and will be a hundred per cent for sure and try to go for the championship, but we will see.”

Thibault Benistant

“The day was a little bit difficult with two bad starts. I needed to push a lot to work on that. In the beginning of the race I didn’t quite get the rhythm but towards the end the speed was there so, it’s quite good and to come back to the podium. We just need to be focused for Lommel.”

Thibault Benistant
Thibault Benistant
Kay de Wolf

“It was a good day for me. Struggled a little bit with the pace again and had to let Thibault by. The riding was actually good for me, because we didn’t train as much on hard pack. I’m born on the sand so it’s quite good to be back on the podium, especially on hard pack, so I feel really good and I’m really happy about it.”

EMX250 Results

Pos Rider Nat. Bike R1 R2 Total
1 Guadagnini, Mattia ITA HUS 25 25 50
2 Benistant, Thibault FRA YAM 20 20 40
3 de Wolf, Kay NED HUS 22 16 38
4 Locurcio, Lorenzo VEN KAW 15 22 37
5 Facchetti, Gianluca ITA YAM 18 18 36
6 Oliver, Oriol ESP KTM 12 15 27
7 Fredriksen, Hakon NOR YAM 13 14 27
8 Edberg, Tim SWE YAM 16 11 27
9 Spies, Maximilian GER HUS 10 12 22
10 Talviku, Jorgen-Matthias EST HUS 14 7 21
11 Louis, Axel FRA HON 7 13 20
12 Guyon, Tom FRA KTM 11 9 20
13 Mc Lellan, Camden RSA HUS 9 8 17
14 Vesterinen, Matias FIN KTM 6 6 12
15 Van Essen, Twan NED KTM 8 4 12
16 Goupillon, Pierre FRA KAW 1 10 11
17 Lucas, Mario ESP KTM 3 5 8
18 Tomas, Eric ESP YAM 5 2 7
19 Giuzio, Raffaele ITA YAM 2 3 5
20 Gamboa Montero , Alex ESP HUS 4 1 5
21 Nilsson, Samuel ESP YAM 0 0 0

EMX250 Standings

Pos Rider Nat. Bike Total
1 Benistant, T. FRA YAM 326
2 Guadagnini, M. ITA HUS 308
3 de Wolf, Kay NED HUS 236
4 Fredriksen, H. NOR YAM 215
5 Edberg, Tim SWE YAM 201
6 Talviku, J. EST HUS 201
7 Locurcio, L. VEN KAW 178
8 Guyon, Tom FRA KTM 157
9 Vettik, Meico EST KTM 137
10 Facchetti, G. ITA YAM 134
11 Gifting, Isak SWE KTM 128
12 Boegh Damm, B. DEN KTM 110
13 Spies, M. GER HUS 106
14 Conijn, Marcel NED KTM 94
15 Florian, Lion GER KTM 93
16 Mc Lellan, C. RSA HUS 89
17 Everts, Liam BEL KTM 87
18 Sileika, T. LAT KTM 81
19 Oliver, Oriol ESP KTM 76
20 Goupillon, P. FRA KAW 57
21 Meier, Glen DEN YAM 54
22 Rizzi, Joel GBR HUS 37
23 Adamo, Andrea ITA YAM 33
24 Gwerder, Mike SUI KTM 33
25 Kutsar, Karel EST KTM 28

x Dunlop Gen Web Banner
Moto News Weekly proudly brought to you by Dunlop

EMX125

The first EMX125 Presented by FMF Racing heat saw Meico Vettik lead the way out of the start, with Fantic Racing’s Andrea Bonacorsi 2nd and Gerard Congost of RFME GASGAS MX Junior Team 3rd.

Fellow RFME GASGAS MX Junior Team rider, David Braceras, then went after Congost and passed him for 3rd on the opening lap, with the #24 then going after the leaders shortly after.

Bonacorsi then picked up his pace after going purple in sector 1 as he took a little bit of time out of Vettik who led the way by 3.730 seconds on lap 4.

A nice battle then formed from 4th to 8th, as Max Palsson of WZ-Racing, Congost, Valerio Lata of Marchetti Racing Team KTM, Andrea Roncoli and Saad Soulimani from Team VRT Nordpesca Holland, closely fought for top positions. And as Roncoli pushed Lata for 6th, the Husqvarna rider then crashed out, to re-join the race in 10th.

Andrea Bonacorsi
Andrea Bonacorsi

Vettik then continued to lead Bonacorsi and Braceras, as Palsson was looking to close in on the top 3. Though Bonacorsi then made a mistake and lost a load of time, as Braceras and Palsson started to edge closer.

Meanwhile further down the field, things were getting interesting between Lata, Congost and Quentin Marc Prugnieres of BUD Racing Kawasaki for 5th. At the same time Braceras and Palsson continued to go at it for 3rd, while Bonacorsi was closing in on the race leader, as just 1.200 seconds separated them.

For the last two laps of the race Bonacorsi pushed hard to go for the win, even going on to set the fastest lap of the race on the last lap, as he clocked a 2:02.523. Though it was not enough and Vettik managed to hold on to that win. The Estonian won by just 0.5 seconds, with Bonacorsi in P2 and Braceras P3.

In race 2, it was Roncoli who took the holeshot as he led Braceras, Bonacorsi and Ivano Van Erp of Yamaha Europe EMX125 MJC. It didn’t take long for Roncoli to extend his lead to 3.8 seconds, with Braceras staying ahead of Bonacorsi.

Prugnieres then took 4th from Van Erp, while Congost lost two places to Soulimani and Palsson. By lap 5, Congost looked in trouble as he dropped from 7th to 10th and then 21st as his holeshot device looked to be stuck as he came past pitlane.

There was no change in the top 5 for the next couple of laps and Roncoli continued to lead the way by 6 seconds over Braceras who was still in 2nd place. But, Bonacorsi then started to pick things up as he chased down Braceras.

4 laps from the end, Bonacorsi was finally able to get around the Spaniard for P2 in the race, though Braceras was not ready to give up so easily, with the pair eventually finishing the race separated by 1 second. Eventually, the race win went to Roncoli who led every lap of the race, with Bonacorsi 2nd and Braceras 3rd.

With a consistent 2-2 result, Andrea Bonacorsi took the overall victory, while Meico Vettik finished on the 2nd step of the box, while David Braceras made this home round a memorable one, as he finished on the 3rd step.

With 3 rounds remaining, Bonacorsi continues to lead the championship with a 42-point advantage to Vettik who has moved up into 2nd place, while David Braceras is a further 11 points down in 3rd.

EMX125 Podium
EMX125 Podium
Andrea Bonacorsi

“It was a good day, a solid day. Today I took two second places, so I’m really happy. Now we have two races in Lommel, so we will work hard for it. I’m feeling good and really comfortable with the bike and now we go to Lommel with the motivation to win.”

Meico Vettik

“The first race was nice; I got a good start and was holding first place. In the second race, I was a little bit not that good and then I was pushing but 5th place is not so bad. It’s nice to be second in the championship now, just need to push more and more.”

David Braceras

“In the second race I was second until four laps to the finish. I made some mistakes in the last two laps and Andrea passed me. I came third and I’m happy with rhythm and my speed but I’m hungry for more. It’s really special to be on the podium here, because it’s my first ever race in Spain in the EMX and I’m really happy.”

David Braceras
David Braceras

EMX125 Results

Pos Rider Nat. Bike R1 R2 Total
1 Bonacorsi, Andrea ITA FAN 22 22 44
2 Vettik, Meico EST KTM 25 16 41
3 Braceras, David ESP GAS 20 20 40
4 Roncoli, Andrea ITA HUS 12 25 37
5 Prugnieres, Quentin Marc FRA KTM 15 18 33
6 Palsson, Max SWE KTM 18 14 32
7 Soulimani, Saad FRA KTM 14 15 29
8 Lata, Valerio ITA KTM 16 11 27
9 Razzini, Pietro ITA HUS 8 12 20
10 Sanchez, Raul ESP YAM 10 10 20
11 Osterhagen, Haakon NOR KTM 13 7 20
12 Van Erp, Ivano NED YAM 6 13 19
13 Beltran, David ESP KTM 7 8 15
14 Karssemakers, Kay NED YAM 5 9 14
15 Venhoda, Martin CZE KTM 9 3 12
16 Congost, Gerard ESP GAS 11 0 11
17 Torrijo, Diego ESP KTM 3 5 8
18 Canet, Edgar ESP KTM 1 6 7
19 Zampino, Davide ITA KTM 0 4 4
20 Gimm, Daniel ITA YAM 4 0 4
21 Barthez, Mathis FRA YAM 0 2 2
22 Poll, Kiliann FRA KTM 2 0 2
23 Lane, Ethan GBR KTM 0 1 1

EMX125 Standings

Pos Rider Nat. Bike Total
1 Bonacorsi, A. ITA FAN 230
2 Vettik, Meico EST KTM 188
3 Braceras, D. ESP GAS 177
4 Razzini, P. ITA HUS 173
5 Palsson, Max SWE KTM 148
6 Lata, Valerio ITA KTM 147
7 Roncoli, A. ITA HUS 146
8 Farres, G. ESP GAS 132
9 Prugnieres, Q. FRA KTM 128
10 Soulimani, S. FRA KTM 119
11 Brumann, Kevin SUI YAM 117
12 Congost, G. ESP GAS 73
13 Everts, Liam BEL KTM 66
14 Piller, C. GER KTM 64
15 Osterhagen, H. NOR KTM 63
16 Rossi, Andrea ITA KTM 51
17 Miot, Florian FRA KTM 44
18 Smulders, S. NED HUS 42
19 Venhoda, M. CZE KTM 37
20 Cazal, Xavier FRA KTM 36
21 Russi, M. ITA KTM 34
22 Pedersen, R. DEN KTM 33
23 Kucherov, N. RUS KTM 33
24 Sanchez, Raul ESP YAM 30
25 Reisulis, K. LAT KTM 28

x Dunlop Gen Web Banner
Moto News Weekly proudly brought to you by Dunlop

Albert Cabestany wins Trial-E World Cup in Italy

Bringing the four-round 2020 FIM TrialGP World Championship to a positive close, GASGAS Factory Racing team riders Albert Cabestany comes away from the TrialGP of Italy having delivered his best results of the season. For Cabestany, the final round of the Trial-E World Cup was a time to shine as the experienced Spaniard went 1-1 to wrap-up his second electric title.

Albert Cabestany
Albert Cabestany

The fourth and final stop of the 2020 TrialGP World Championship was also the second and final round of the Trial-E World Cup. Coming into the event some six points down on then series leader Gael Chatagno, GASGAS Factory Racing’s Albert Cabestany knew that he needed to win both days of competition at the TrialGP of Italy.

Well-used to delivering his best while under pressure, the vastly experienced Spaniard made light work of the Italian sections on his GASGAS TXE, completing day one with just seven marks lost and taking the win. With the Trial-E title well within his grasp, Cabestany kept the pressure on during day two and in dropping just five marks secured the day win. With it, he lifted the FIM Trial-E World Cup for a second consecutive season, handing GASGAS their fourth Trial-E World Cup title.

Albert Cabestany

“It feels great to win another Trial-E title, and also to finish the championship is a very positive way. This is a great result for both myself and GASGAS. We had some very strong competition this year, they really showed us at the first round that they had worked a lot during the off-season and that they had very good machinery and riders. We knew that we needed to do our very best here this weekend, that we needed to win both days. We started working hard after the opening round of the championship, and the team really did work very hard to make improvements. The sections this weekend were not too difficult, so I knew that being focused and riding consistently, without silly mistakes, would be so, so important. To keep this title, it means a lot to me and GASGAS.”

Albert Cabestany
Albert Cabestany

Trial-E – Day 1

  1. Albert Cabestany (GASGAS) – 7
  2. Gael Chatagno (Electric Motion) – 25
  3. Julien Perret (Electric Motion) – 61
  4. Jerome Delair (Electric Motion) – 114

Trial-E – Day 2

  1. Albert Cabestany (GASGAS) – 5
  2. Gael Chatagno (Electric Motion) – 15
  3. Julien Perret (Electric Motion) – 51
  4. Jerome Delair (Electric Motion) – 89

2020 Trial-E Standings

  1. Albert Cabestany (GASGAS) – 74 points
  2. Gael Chatagno (Electric Motion) – 74
  3. Julien Perret (Electric Motion) – 60
  4. Jerome Delair (Electric Motion) – 48
  5. Martin Pochez (Electric Motion) – 26

Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing sign Kay De Wolf & Maxime Grau

Husqvarna Motorcycles have announced the signing of Kay de Wolf and Maxime Grau for the 2021 and 2022 seasons. Continuing with the Nestaan MX run Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing MX2 team following two positive years together, de Wolf will make the transition from the EMX250 class up into the ultra-competitive MX2 World Championship while Grau will line up for his first season of EMX250 competition. Both talented youngsters will race on FC 250 machinery.

In what will be his third year of racing with Husqvarna Motorcycles, Kay de Wolf will make the sizeable step up to the MX2 class for 2021. Racing to a strong sixth overall in the 2019 EMX125 series on a TC 125, the 16-year-old progressed to the EMX250 class for 2020 where he currently holds third position in the championship standings. Claiming second overall at the latest round of the series, the Dutch racer underlined his talents as he progresses through the classes.

Stepping in to fill the seat vacated by de Wolf, Maxime Grau joins the Nestaan MX run Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing MX2 team for 2021 in what will be his debut season of EMX250 competition. Set to compete aboard FC 250 machinery, the 14-year-old French rider aims to establish himself as a top-10 contender as the season progresses. Currently second in the Championnats De France Junior series, Grau will receive the required equipment and support needed to compete at the sharp end of the EMX250 championship in 2021.

Kay De Wolf & Rasmus Jorgensen
Kay De Wolf & Rasmus Jorgensen

Armed with the proven FC 250 for the next two years, both Kay and Maxime will soon embark on winter testing in preparation for 2021 and the exciting new challenges that lie ahead.

Kay De Wolf

“It’s amazing. I’ve had a great two years with the team already and signing for two more, and moving into the MX2 class with them, is a great feeling. I’ve been with them for EMX125 and at the moment EMX250, so staying with the same team as I move up to MX2 means I can fully focus on my racing. It’s just unbelievable and a dream come true for me. Knowing that the team believes in me gives me confidence and I hope to repay them with great results over the next two seasons.”

Maxime Grau

“I am delighted about this new chapter in my young career. I now have a clear plan for the years to come with Husqvarna Motorcycles. This is definitely the best opportunity to make the next step up in the professional motocross world. I will work hard, and I am extremely motivated to achieve great performances. I would like to thank all the people who have made this project possible, particularly TECH32 for their unconditional support during the past years. I can’t wait to move to Belgium and start working with Rasmus and the whole team. I will give my best and we will see what the future holds.”

Maxime Grau
Maxime Grau
Rasmus Jorgensen – Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing MX2 Team Manager

“We’re super-excited with our new signings, Kay and Maxime. With Kay it’s more of an extension as he’s been with us for two seasons already. We have a huge belief in him, so we have signed him for two more years and look forward to continuing to work together as he moves up into MX2. Obviously, he is really young, he’ll only be 16 next season. Year one in MX2 will be a learning year without any huge expectations. We just want to see him have a strong year, improve and for him to experience what it takes to be up front in the MX2 class for the following season. For now, with Kay, we focus on the EMX250 series, but we are already looking forward to 2021. Maxime Grau is a young and talented rider that we welcome to the team. It will be his first-year racing on a 4-stroke, so again, it will be a learning year for him. He is only 14 years old, but we believe in him and know that he will be competitive next year as he develops as a rider. As a team we look ahead to a solid winter of training and look forward to a great 2021 season.”

x Dunlop Gen Web Banner
Moto News Weekly proudly brought to you by Dunlop

2020 Speedway of Nations Final

The draw for the 2020 Monster Energy FIM Speedway of Nations Final in Lublin on October 16 and 17 has been confirmed. Champions Russia launch their title defence on day one in heat three against Great Britain – the side they defeated to clinch their first world title in the Grand Final in Wroclaw in 2018.

2020 Speedway of Nations
2020 Speedway of Nations

Hosts Poland get their weekend underway against last year’s bronze medallists Australia in race two, with Denmark opening the meeting in heat one against the Czech Republic, who make their SON Final debut. Sweden’s first race comes against the Czechs in heat four.

Last year’s top two Russia and Poland collide in heat 13 with some big battles to finish day one. Scandinavian rivals Sweden and Denmark meet in race 19. GB face off with Poland in heat 20 and Russia conclude their heats against Australia in race 21.

Poland start day two with another battle with the Brits in heat one, with Russia opening their Saturday against the Czechs in race two. Sweden and Australia clash in heat three and Denmark get day two started against Poland in race four, before Britain continue a tough start to their night when they renew rivalries with Russia in heat five. Poland and Russia clash in race eight.

All seven sides meet each other over 21 heats on both day one and day two, with the highest-scoring side over 42 races seeded straight through to the Grand Final at the end of day two.

The second and third-placed nations on the score chart battle it out in the Grand Final Qualifier, with the winner facing the top-scoring country in the Grand Final for the SON world title.

In a change to the scoring system for 2021, there will be four points for a heat win, with three for second, two for third and zero points for last place, a disqualification or failing to finish.

As a result, there will be no drawn heats this year, with second and third place scoring a total of five points, giving the team that avoids last place a 5-4 heat win over a country taking first and fourth. This means second and third place in the Grand Final would see a team crowned world champions.

Monster Energy FIM Speedway of Nations Final Draw

DAY 1

  • A: Czech Republic
  • B: Denmark
  • C: Poland
  • D: Australia
  • E: Great Britain
  • F: Russia
  • G: Sweden

DAY 2

  • A: Poland
  • B: Great Britain
  • C: Russia
  • D: Czech Republic
  • E: Sweden
  • F: Australia
  • G: Denmark

2020 Team Line-Ups

Hosts Poland are led by the nation’s first-ever double world champion Bartosz Zmarzlik, with his Gorzow team mate Szymon Wozniak partnering him on his SON debut. FIM Speedway Under-21 World Championship runner-up Dominik Kubera serves as Poland’s under-21 rider.

2020 Speedway of Nations is ramping up
2020 Speedway of Nations is ramping up

Champions Russia keep faith with double SON-winning pair Emil Sayfutdinov and Artem Laguta, with newcomer Evgenii Saidullin serving as their under-21.

The Danes are skippered by Leon Madsen, who joins forces with 2021 FIM Speedway Grand Prix wild card and SON debutant Anders Thomsen, with 16-year-old sensation Marcus Birkemose named as their under-21 rider.

Swedish hero Fredrik Lindgren leads his country’s challenge along with SGP 2021 qualifier Oliver Berntzon, who makes his first SON appearance. Alexander Woentin is their under-21 star.

With triple world champion Tai Woffinden sidelined due to injury, Great Britain’s challenge is led by European champion Robert Lambert. Drew Kemp is named as their second senior and Daniel Bewley the designated under-21, with both men making their tournament debut.

Last year’s bronze medallists Australia keep faith with their 2018 and 2019 Final line-ups, tracking two SGP stars in Jason Doyle and Max Fricke, with new World Under-21 champion Jaimon Lidsey named as their junior rider.

The Czech Republic team lines up with national champion Eduard Krcmar and Vaclav Milik in their first-ever SON Final, with Petr Chlupac handed their under-21 spot.

Every under-21 rider must appear in at least one of their country’s races on each day of the Final, although team managers have the option to use them in more heats or every race if they wish.

2020 Monster Energy FIM Speedway of Nations Final Starting Line-Ups

RUSSIA

  • 1. Emil Sayfutdinov ©
  • 2. Artem Laguta
  • 3. Evgenii Saidullin (U21)
  • Team Manager: Oleg Kurguskin

POLAND

  • 1. Bartosz Zmarzlik ©
  • 2. Szymon Wozniak
  • 3. Dominik Kubera (U21)
  • Team Manager: Marek Cieslak

AUSTRALIA

  • 1. Jason Doyle ©
  • 2. Max Fricke
  • 3. Jaimon Lidsey (U21)
  • Team Manager: Mark Lemon

DENMARK

  • 1. Leon Madsen ©
  • 2. Anders Thomsen
  • 3. Marcus Birkemose (U21)
  • Team Manager: Hans Nielsen

SWEDEN

  • 1. Fredrik Lindgren ©
  • 2. Oliver Berntzon
  • 3. Alexander Woentin (U21)
  • Team Manager: Morgan Andersson

GREAT BRITAIN

  • 1. Robert Lambert ©
  • 2. Drew Kemp
  • 3. Daniel Bewley (U21)
  • Team Managers: Simon Stead and Oliver Allen

CZECH REPUBLIC

  • 1. Vaclav Milik ©
  • 2. Eduard Krcmar
  • 3. Petr Chlupac (U21)
  • Team Manager: Filip Sitera

x Dunlop Gen Web Banner
Moto News Weekly proudly brought to you by Dunlop

Jeffrey Herlings opts for surgery and will sit out 2020

Red Bull KTM Factory Racing star Jeffrey Herlings will miss the remaining seven rounds of 2020 MXGP after choosing to focus on a full recovery from his injuries and face the off-season period closer to 100 per cent fitness.

The 25-year old has healed from the neck and upper back problems suffered as a result of his crash during Free Practice for the Grand Prix Citta di Faenza at the Monte Coralli in Italy circuit last month. The Dutchman is lacking bike time and conditioning to be able to return to competitive MXGP duty, especially with the calendar hurrying to a conclusion by November 8th.

MXGP Rnd Netherlands Jeffrey Herlings KTM SX F Valkenswaard
Jeffrey Herlings

A contributing factor to the accident was the lack of flexibility and comfort in Herlings’ right foot. Therefore, the winner of four rounds this year (still more than any other rider) has decided to undergo a small procedure to remove excess bone growth and fix scar tissue on Thursday 15th of October.

If the operation and post-op period goes accordingly then Herlings will have much better use of his right limb and can immediately concentrate on preparation with his KTM 450 SX-F for the 2021 campaign.

MX2 teammate Rene Hofer is also making decent steps from his broken left shoulder and hopes to be back on the KTM 250 SX-F in the next two months.

Red Bull KTM Factory Racing still have Tony Cairoli and Jorge Prado in contention for the 2020 MXGP title and Tom Vialle has held the red plate for 10 of the 11 rounds in MX2 so far.

Jeffrey Herlings

“It won’t be a big operation but the foot is a complicated part of the body and there is some extra bone growing where I broke it. It needs to be partly removed. I also have tissue that is painful and irritating. I should know after a couple of weeks if I will be pain-free or we need to look at another option to be good again. I want to have this done so I won’t be putting 2021 at risk. 2020 was going pretty well and it’s disappointing to miss out again because of injury but we’ve been through this process and at least now I can work on getting myself into even better shape for another go next season. Thanks to Red Bull KTM for all their support and to the fans for the messages.”

Jeffrey Herlings - Image by Ray Archer
Jeffrey Herlings – Image by Ray Archer

x Dunlop Gen Web Banner
Moto News Weekly proudly brought to you by Dunlop

2020 AORC Class of Champions

The Motorcycling Australia Yamaha Australian Off-Road Championship (AORC), presented by MXstore, 2020 Class of Champions are super excited about adding new trophies to their cabinets. The season provided spectacular racing and we caught up with your 2020 AORC Champions.

2020 AORC Outright Results
Pos  Rider Category Points
1 Daniel Milner E2 75
2 Daniel Sanders E3 66
3 Josh Green E2 52
4 Todd Waters E2 50
5 Michael Driscoll E2 48
6 Mason Semmens E1 44
7 Luke Styke E1 43
8 Jonte Reynders E3 41
9 Jeremy Carpentier E2 31
10 Stegan Granquist E2 30
11 Beau Ralston E2 29
12 Fraser Higlet E3 28
13 Callum Norton E3 20
14 Kyron Bacon E1 19
15 Cooper Sheidow E2 18
16 Korey McMahon EJ 12
17 Broc Grabham E2 12
18 Andrew Wilcsch E3 9
19 Jesse Lawton E3 7
20 Blake Hollis EJ 7
21 Corey Hammond E1 7
22 Geoff Braico 2-Stroke 6
23 Hayden Keely E3 5
24 William Price E2 2
25 Ben Kearns E2 2

E1

In the E1 class saw a three-way dog fight between Active8 Yamaha Yamalubes Luke Styke, KTM Enudoro Racing Team rider Mason Semmens and Kyron Bacon, with only 1 point separating Styke and Semmens. Impressive form young Tasmanian Kyron Bacon to get on the podium after being the 2019 EJ Champion.

Luke Styke
Luke Styke

Styke and Semmens both traded wins on the first weekend of racing, however with Styke claiming the win in the Enduro format in Round 3, he was then able to claim the E1 Championship win for the third year running.

What was tantalising about this result is that Semmens came across from motocross and adapted to the off-road from the drop of the green flag at round 1 to follow in the footsteps as Styke did previously when he made the switch back in 2018.

Luke Styke

“The 2020 AORC is a weird thing to say after only 4 rounds, and to be named a champion, but I’ll take it. This is my third championship in a row in the E1 class and ticks off another goal I had coming into the season. Thank you to the team for their support and also the work MA did in trying to keep the championship up and running during such a difficult time. The biggest thing I would say is a massive thank you to all our loyal sponsors still helping us through these bad times and continued support, Yamaha is clearly the best company to race under. And can’t wait for many more years under the blue truck, Gas imports for the awesome Thor gear, Michelin for that fresh rubber, and all the associated sponsors that help me and the team to go race, thank you.”


E2

While on paper it looks as though KTM Enduro Racing Daniel Milner dominated the E2 he was under constant pressure from Active8 Yamaha Yamalubes Josh Green and off-road newcomer MX Champion Todd Waters (Berry Sweet Husqvarna) who looked promising.

Daniel Milner
Daniel Milner

Whilst Milner was 15 points clear to take first place, it went to the wire for second place with only 2 points separating Green (60 points), Waters (59 points) and Driscoll (58points) in his first year on the 450. Green has continued his consistency as the reliable AORC Veteran with yet another AORC Championship Podium.

Milner took out his forth successive Championship since his return after his American stint back in 2016. Since 2017 and Joining KTM Australia, Milner has won three E2 Championships going back to back this year and taking out E3 in 2018.

Milner also takes the perpetual ADB Outright Trophy as the quickest rider of the AORC field for 2020.

Daniel Milner

“I’m stoked to come away with my 4th AORC outright and 3rd E2 title, making it my 9th Australian outright title. 2020 has been a crazy year forcing the AORC to be cut short after only 3 rounds. Despite this I was still lucky enough to come out swinging from the get go and clean sweep the 3 rounds we were able to race. I couldn’t have done it without my team and GJ Kearney, the guy who made everything happen. There is no way I could have achieved what I have without this guy. Scott Keegan, my 2020 team manager who bent over backwards for myself and team mate Mason Semmens My mechanic Michael Carusi that works so hard to make my bike and myself feel bulletproof week in and week out. The cook/legend Garry Blizzard for keeping me fed and full of laughter and Mason Semmens mechanic Jordan Yeo for looking after us all. Also, last but not least, all our team sponsors and my personal sponsors that make it possible to chase our dreams @ktm.australia @wearelusty @ridedunlopau @fmf73 @precision_racing @beatonsproformula @kustommx @imsproducts @officialngksparkplugs @troyleedesignsau @choicesuspension @wpsuspensionaunz @motorexaus @twin_air @ficeda_acc @scottmotosports @vortexignitions @gallbrosmedical @revolutionspinfit @recover8_au @pakenham_mazda @uswesports_au @atlasbrace @odigripsau @shoeihelmetsaus @mcleodaccessoriesaus @victoriablinds @choicesuspension @collins779. I’m excited to see what next year brings us and what we can achieve.”


E3

Rally Racing bound and former Husqvarna Enduro Racing Team Rider Daniel Sanders, showed why he is the current World Champion, dominating the E3 class with speed on the big bore FE 501.

Daniel Sanders
Daniel Sanders

Sanders knocked off Tasmanian hard charger and one the quickest 2 strokes in field on his 300 2 stroke Motul Perrili Shercro rider Jonte Reynders and former team-mate Fraser Higlett took third.

Sanders won his third successive championship in 2020 and fifth overall. After Sanders returned home form the World Championships in 2018 he would return to take out the E2 Championship and has now gone on to claim back to back E3 Championships.

Sanders is currently on track racing in the Andalucia Rally and was unavailable to comment on his 2020 Championship win.


EJ

In the EJ Under 18’s class Korey McMahon has risen from third in 2019 to take out the Championship win this year narrowly by two three points over young gun and bLU cRU Off-Road racing team rider Blake Hollis, with Samuel Pretscherer taking out the final place on the podium.

Korey McMahon
Korey McMahon
Korey McMahon

“It is great to be crowned Australian EJ Champion for 2020 however it was a season we never saw coming. It would have been great to race all rounds and prove my full potential as going into the 2020 season I was feeling well prepared and confident being injury free and having KTM Australia backing me. Winning rounds 1 and 2 in Toowoomba was my plan to start off on the right foot. Round 3, I experienced minor mechanical issues leaving me disappointed in 2nd place as I know I had the speed which was proved in the later test results. Overall it is a bitter sweet feeling taking out my second Australia off road championship in the way that it was, but still over the moon to get the Championship in my final year in the EJ Class. Big shout out to the team at AORC for trying to complete the season and crown all of the 14 Australian Champions, Thanks guys as this means a lot to us riders. A massive thanks goes out to GK from KTM for giving me the opportunity to race this year under KTM and the whole KTM enduro team for all the advice and help along the way as well as all the other people behind me Motorex oils ,Mal and Robyn and their team from Suttos Powersports , Benny from SRD suspension/WP suspension, the whole team at Kenda Tires, Fineline Fabrications, mum and dad at Magwheel repairs, Mat from Motokit Graphics, Cassons Australia Motocycles and all the associated sponsors Gaerne boots, O’neal race gear, Bell helmets.”


Women

In the Women’s class Jessica Gardiner was again in a class of her own taking three wins from three and wrapping an amazing sixth championship win to continue to make AORC history.

Jessica Gardiner
Jessica Gardiner

Emelie Karlsson battled with Emma Milesevic for second with only two points separating these ladies, Karlsson ultimately taking second spot with Milesevic in third continuing on her impressive display after switching full time from MX to Off-Roads.

Jessica Gardiner

“It’s good to secure the championship again, all be it in a strange way. I love racing and have missed it so much since the restrictions have been in place, but MA waited as long as they could to try and get the season up and running again. Hopefully things return to normal next year and we can get back to racing as we knew it.”


2 Stroke

In the return of the popular 2 Stroke class to the AORC, only 5 points separated the top three in an epic battle of the Yamaha’ s with Brad Hardaker, Young Queenslanders Harrison Teed and Motul Pirelli Sherco rider Dalton Johnson taking third in his return to the AORC scene.

Brad Hardaker
Brad Hardaker
Brad Hardaker

“Well this class suited me, as I work full time during the week I don’t get much time to train on the bike. It’s so hard to compete with all these top guys who get to train every day. I’ve been chasing an AORC podium for many years now, coming 4th in the E1 twice and 4th in E2 last year. I can’t thank the entire bLU cRU Yamaha Off Road team enough for their endless help and a massive thanks to AJ Roberts for building me an absolute monster of a two stroke to ride. Also a massive shout out to @weararelusty for the endless supply of gear, keeping me looking fresh. As for next year I’m not sure where the sport will take me but I’m sure AORC will be back stronger than ever and with all this young talent in the field the sport has a very bright future.”

x Dunlop Gen Web Banner
Moto News Weekly proudly brought to you by Dunlop

Veterans

In the over 35’s class of Veterans Lee Stephens has claimed back to back Championships, holding off the challenge from the 2018 Champion in Richard Chibnall who would finish in second place. Chris Thomas held out 2017 champion Jason Pearce and was able to claim the remaining spot on the podium for third place.

Lee Stephens
Lee Stephens
Lee Stephens

“It is a great feeling to get back to back vets championships and even better to have my 2 boys on the podiums in their classes. Even though this year was cut short there was still a lot of effort put in at the start of 2020 which payed off. I would like to thank all the people and sponsors that make it all happen for me and my family including True painting, KTM Newcastle, KTM Australia, Maxxis Tyres Wearelusty, Scipio, Troy Lee designs, Forma boots, MSC products, Uni filter, Anonymous gloves, and most of all Kristy-Lee.”


Masters

Yamaha Motor Australia rider Kirk Hutton has gone back to back in the Over 45’s Masters Championship taking a win in each of the three rounds. Kirk had planned to take the year off to develop his young up and coming sons to race although made a comeback just for the initial rounds and came up trumps to win the Championship. Andrew Gilam would claim second place with South Australian Peter Rudd in third place.

Kirk Hutton
Kirk Hutton
Kirk Hutton

“I feel honoured and a sense of achievement to be able to win another Australian championship at age 47 although the series was cut short I thoroughly enjoyed the first 3 rounds. It brings me great pleasure to be able to share these experiences with my sons who are also racing enduro quite well. It is great fun and a real family atmosphere. Looking forward to going enduro racing with them next year. We could not do all of this without the help of my awesome wife and daughter along with grandma and grandad!! Our awesome sponsors include: Yamaha Motor Australia, Belle property Samford, Dunlop tyres, Forma boots, Yamalube oils, GYTR, CTI knee braces, FXR.”


JJ

In the first year of the new 65cc Junior cup Max Stevenson took the inaugural championship in the JJ class. A mere 10 points separated first to third, with Harley Hutton son of Masters champion Kirk, took out second on his Yamaha and Dylan McDonald would take the final podium place in third. Only 27 points covered the top 10 in a field of very competitive riders.

Max Stevenson
Max Stevenson
Max Stevenson

“I was very excited to win the 65cc Australian Off-Road Championship. To do it on my ‘15 KTM 65 affectionately known as ‘The Rattler’ with 585hrs on it shows the time and dedication I have put into training over the last 5 years. Having spent 5-years racing motocross where I have previously podiumed at the Australian National Junior level, off-road riding has always interested me. This year I wanted to test myself to see if I had what it takes to pursue off road racing. I really enjoy off-road racing, where I can push myself through the bush to get faster each lap. It’s also great that I can compete at a National event with some of the best senior and junior racers in Australia.”


J1

The closest finish of all the Championship classes was in the J1 class, proving to be a success in the first year the new 85cc class was run in the AORC.

Mason Boucher
Mason Boucher

Two riders – Mason Boucher and Cooper Boyd – tied on 56 points each, with Boucher taking out the championship on a count back for places. Lachlan Roche was able to secure third in the class on 53 points.

In fact, the top five riders were covered by a mere 16 points, such was the strong competition in the debut year for this class in 2020.

Mason Boucher

“It’s amazing, I love it. It feels good, it was my first time racing the Aussies and I really loved it, it was such a great experience and fun. I want to thank Team Moto/Maben Racing, KTM Australia TeamMoto Motorcycles, Maben Group, Tracrite Suspension, The Collective Family, Two Stroke Pipe Repairs, Topline Seat Covers, Gas Imports Australia, and Cisco Race Tuning.”


J2

Jett Yarnold cleaned swept the class winning each round and was able to claim the Championship out in front on 75 Points. The battle for second was close though which came down to Levi Stephens and Jack Shearer with only six points separating the two youngsters.

Jett Yarnold
Jett Yarnold

“All the hard work finally paid off and to get the championship it’s pretty good. It was good to ride all the rounds and with my friends and getting down to the hard work of racing. Getting that first win at the first round was really good, I didn’t think I’d be undefeated. Next year I will race in the J3 class on a YZ125. I’d like to thank Pacific Blue Metal, Easy Creek Concrete Pumping, Atlantic Oils Australia, Supermoto Armidale, All Peoples Services Taree, and Yamaha Australia and Mum and Dad.”


J3

In the J3 Class the battle went down to the wire with only one point separating Billy Hargy and William Dennett. Hargy came out on top finishing on 70 points with Dennett on 69. Third place was taken out by Max Phillips, but only by three points as he was followed closely by Campbell Hall with Luke Chellas only one point back in fifth.

Billy Hargy
Billy Hargy

Hargy continued to impress in this year’s Championship win, making it his third successive championship after winning the J2 Class the previous two years. Hargy is currently recovering from injury and can’t wait to get back on the bike in preparation for 2021.

Billy Hargy

“I’m over the moon just winning by one point was really lucky. My start to the season was slow only getting bikes a week before rounds 1 and 2 in Toowoomba so I didn’t have a lot of bike time. The plans for the 2021 season is to be consistent all year round and the main goal is to back up my championship on top of the podium. I’d like to thank my dad, who does everything for me and is basically my best friend, Jesse Jenkins, also Husqvarna Australia, Rock Motorcycles, Pro-moto Suspension, POD active knee braces, PGA Rendering, Wynn homes, Gas Imports, Spy goggles, Thor gear, Motorex oils, Incite Graphics, Hastings Valley Water Carriers, and Michelin tyres.”


J4

Riley McGillivray has finished off 2020 as he did in 2019 winning yet another championship and going undefeated yet again. He finished on perfect points with 75, followed by Kodi Stephens who was second in each of three rounds being very consistent. Kobi Wolff finished in third only six points back as he also podiumed each of the three weekends. The future is bright for these riders as they look to head into the senior ranks in 2021.

Riley McGillivray
Riley McGillivray
Riley McGillivray

“It’s always great news to be crowned an Aussie champ, and I’m actually glad MA/AORC made the final decision to finish up a very disrupted season. It gives us riders time to finally wrap up the year, plan and get sorted for bigger things in 2021. I’m glad I could put to show the hard work of everyone involved with me in the opening rounds, winning all 3 rounds. Big thanks to Mel and Steve Jones for their continued support and work throughout the year, as well as the rest of my sponsors. Onto 2021. I’d like to thank Aj’s Superstore, Tunetech, Fox, Alps, Maxima oils, Oakley, Pod, SBS brakes, and Dunlop.”


JG

2020 would be the first year the Junior Girls had raced at the AORC and they didn’t disappoint providing sensational close racing. Each of three girls finished in the same position each of the three rounds showing consistency is key.

Danielle McDonald
Danielle McDonald

In an impressive display Danielle McDonald would go undefeated at the top and much like mentor Jess Gardiner, she set the speed for the new Junior Girls class.

Ariana Collins who has previously mixed in with the boys in AORC made her presence felt taking second, followed by young Victorian Monique Simioni who would take the final place on the podium in third.

Danielle McDonald

“It’s a pretty big achievement I’m really happy with it in my second year doing the AORC and I’m really proud of that. In 2021 I will be stepping up to my 125 and hopefully that goes well. Big thanks to Yamaha, MXstore, Ballard’s, Jess and Jeremy for their support and a big thank you Mum and Dad for driving me to all the events.”

x Dunlop Gen Web Banner
Moto News Weekly proudly brought to you by Dunlop

2020 Mason-Dixon GNCC

Round 11 of the 2020 Grand National Cross Country (GNCC) Series took place on Sunday in Mount Morris, Pennsylvania. Mathew’s Farm hosted its 3rd Annual Parts Unlimited Mason-Dixon GNCC race, where FMF/KTM Factory Racing’s Kailub Russell wrapped up his eighth-straight GNCC National Championship.

As the famed “10 seconds” was called and the green flag waved, it was AmPro Yamaha’s Layne Michael reaching the line first to grab the $250 All Balls Racing XC1 Pro Holeshot Award. Michael was accompanied by Babbitt’s Online/Monster Energy/Kawasaki teammates Jordan Ashburn and Josh Strang as he led the way into the woods.

Steward Baylor Jr. - Image by Ken Hill
Steward Baylor Jr. – Image by Ken Hill

Michael would continue to hold the lead position for the first four laps of racing as he tried to place a gap on the rest of the field in dusty conditions, however, Michael would be unable to hold off AmPro Yamaha’s Steward Baylor Jr. and FMF/KTM Factory Racing’s Benjamin Kelley. Michael would check in third overall as he came through timing and scoring on the fifth lap, with Baylor Jr and Kelley coming through in the top two positions.

After working his way up from a mid-pack start Baylor Jr. would come through with the lead as the white flag was waving, indicating one more lap to go. Kelley sat 13 seconds behind him but was charging and looking to battle throughout the last lap of racing. Michael, who sat third overall, would make a costly mistake and go down at the end of pro row and lose two positions. As the checkered flag came out Baylor Jr. would come through with just a 1.8 second gap ahead of Kelley to earn his third-straight overall win of the season. Kelley would finish out the day second overall.

Kailub Russell
Kailub Russell – Image by Ken Hill

FMF/KTM Factory Racing’s Kailub Russell, who came into the race after sustaining a PCL and lateral meniscus tear two weeks ago in Ohio, found himself digging deep to push through the three-hour race. Russell was able to battle towards the front of the pack for the first half of the race, but he would lose some time as he would make two precautionary pit stops to have his air filter swapped out due to the extremely dusty conditions. Russell would find himself running third overall as he made his way to checkered flag. Russell’s third overall would be enough to wrap up his eighth-straight title in his final year of Pro GNCC Racing.

Making his return to GNCC Racing this weekend was Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s Thad Duvall. After suffering a knee injury before the start of the season and proving too much to take when the season began in February, Duvall had undergone knee surgery and has been on the road to recovery. Duvall began his day in fourth overall as the lead group came through timing and scoring after completing one lap. Duvall would push himself, running third overall on lap three but would fall back to fourth after that. However, Duvall would find himself running just 1 second behind Russell as the duo made their way through the course on the last lap. Duvall came through the finish 1.3 seconds off of Russell, and with two rounds remaining Duvall is looking to finish out the season and prepare for 2021.

Thad Duvall - Image by Ken Hill
Thad Duvall – Image by Ken Hill

After his crash on pro row, Michael would pick himself up and get back on the motorcycle. Michael found himself back in the fifth place position, but he would once again try to push throughout the last lap to hold onto that fifth place finish. Michael would hold off the rest of the XC1 riders and cross the line fifth.

Strang was running at the front of the pack in second overall for the first three laps of racing but after a long pit stop to change his air filter after 3 laps of racing, Strang would find himself coming through in the ninth place position. Strang knew he would need to make some necessary passes to earn valuable points in his hunt for the National Championship. As Strang came through to see the white flag he had made his way up to sixth overall, however, Strang would be unable to make any more passes throughout the last lap of racing and would hold onto sixth overall and continue to hold second in the points standings.

Teammates to Strang, Ashburn would continue to push after finding himself outside of the top five XC1 racers. Ashburn made his way to seventh overall after falling back to ninth earlier in the day and continues to sit third in the National Championship points standings. FactoryONE Sherco’s Grant Baylor battled back-and-forth from seventh and eighth throughout the duration of the race. Baylor crossed the line three seconds behind Ashburn to take eighth overall.

Phoenix Honda Racing’s Andrew Delong battled through the dusty conditions throughout the grueling three-hour race. Delong would make the move into sixth place as he came through on lap four, however, he would be unable to hold onto that after engaging in a battle for the next two laps. Delong would cross the finish line after six laps of racing in the ninth place position. Rockhill Powersports/Ti Dezigns/UFO Plast’s Evan Earl came through to take 10th in XC1 after having a consistent race at round eleven in Pennsylvania.

Mike Witkowski
Mike Witkowski – Image by Ken Hill

In the XC2 250 Pro class it was AmPro Yamaha/St. Lawrence Radiology’s Mike Witkowski getting a great jump off the line and earning the $100 Hot Cams XC2 Holeshot Award. Witkowski continued to hold the lead as they XC2 riders made their way into the woods, and after six laps of racing Witkowski would cross the finish line with a 12 second gap back to second in his class.

Factory Beta USA’s Cody Barnes also had a great start as he battled Witkowski to the first turn. Barnes would head onto the course second in XC2, putting his head down and pushing to put a gap between himself and third place. Barnes would continue to run second for all but one lap of racing, and as the white flag came out Barnes once again would make the pass to takeover second for the final time. Barnes crossed the finish line to bring home his second runner-up finishing position of the season.

Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s Craig Delong did not have the start he was hoping for as he came through timing and scoring ninth of the opening lap. Delong continued to push himself, and by the halfway point of racing he had made his way into fourth and then third with his sights set on Barnes. Delong would be able to make the pass as the white flag came out, but Barnes would not let him off the hook that easy. Delong and Barnes would battle for second during the last lap, with Barnes taking it and Delong rounding out the XC2 top three finishers.

Tely Energy Racing/KTM’s Liam Draper crossed the line fourth after working his way up from a seventh place start. Points leader Trail Jesters KTM’s Jonathan Girroir would also have a bad start to the day, working his way up to fifth in the XC2 class after starting at the back of the pack.

Zack Hayes
Zack Hayes – Image by Ken Hill

Coming through to take the FMF XC3 125 Pro-Am class win and the National Championship was Moose Racing/Carolina KTM/XC Gear’s Zack Hayes. Earning his sixth win of the season, with eleven rounds counting towards their National Championship, was enough to clinch the number one plate two rounds early.

FXR/KTM’s Jason Lipscomb came through to take second in the FMF XC3 class, his third-straight podium finish of the season. Raines Riding University/Fly Racing/Yamaha’s Jason Raines made his way up to third in the class after starting off the day fourth.

At the conclusion of the 10 a.m. race it was WXC racer AmPro Yamaha’s Rachael Archer taking the overall win and her fourth-straight WXC class win of the season. As the WXC class took off it was Beta USA’s Rachel Gutish grabbing another $100 Trail Jesters WXC Holeshot Award, and TM Racing’s Korie Steede following closely behind.

Rachael Archer
Rachael Archer – Image by Ken Hill

Gutish would hold the early lead, but after two laps of racing Steede’s motorcycle would not be able to handle the conditions and she would be unable to complete the last two laps of racing. Gutish would battle with Archer, and eventually Archer would make the pass stick on Gutish. By this time FactoryONE Sherco/Moose Racing’s Brooke Cosner had made her way up to third from a fifth place start to the day. Archer would continue to hold the lead, ultimately crossing the finish line 40 seconds ahead of Gutish who held onto second and Cosner would made her first podium appearance of the season.

Team Green Kawasaki’s Grant Davis captured the 2020 Youth Overall Championship after earning his eighth Youth Overall win and YXC1 Super Mini Sr. class win of the season. Coming through to take second overall and in YXC1 was Team Green Kawasaki’s Jack Joy, while Coastal Racing Husqvarna’s Lane Whitmer rounded out the youth overall and YXC1 class podiums. YXC2 competitor Nicholas Defeo came through to earn his class win followed by Chase Landers and Logan Pellegrini rounding out the top three in their class.

Grant Davis
Grant Davis – Image by Ken Hill

The AMSOIL Moto Hero was awarded to Junior A/B (25+) competitor, Austin Franklin. Austin hails from Gainesville, Georgia and served in the United States Marine Corps (USMC). Austin served overseas in Afghanistan for 243 days and continued to serve our country as an infantryman on the frontline. Austin currently sits fourth in the Junior A/B points standings. Austin was awarded a free set of Kanati Lite truck tires from GBC Tires, a $250 AMSOIL shopping spree and a commemorative American Flag courtesy of Columbia Flag.

Austin Franklin
Austin Franklin – Image by Ken Hill

XC1 Pro Event Results

  1. Steward Baylor Jr. (YAM)
  2. Benjamin Kelley (KTM)
  3. Kailub Russell (KTM)
  4. Thad Duvall (HQV)
  5. Layne Michael (YAM)
  6. Josh Strang (KAW)
  7. Jordan Ashburn (KAW)
  8. Grant Baylor (SHR)
  9. Andrew Delong (HON)
  10. Evan Earl (KAW)

Overall National Championship Standings

  1. Kailub Russell (277)
  2. Josh Strang (216)
  3. Jordan Ashburn (173)
  4. Craig Delong (157)
  5. Michael Witkowski (150)
  6. Jonathan Girroir (146)
  7. Grant Baylor (137)
  8. Steward Baylor Jr. (133)
  9. Benjamin Kelley (132)
  10. Cody Barnes (113)

XC2 250 Pro Event Results

  1. Michael Witkowski (YAM)
  2. Cody Barnes (BET)
  3. Craig Delong (HQV)
  4. Liam Draper (KTM)
  5. Jonathan Girroir (KTM)
  6. Jesse Ansley (KTM)
  7. Jonathan Johnson (YAM)
  8. Ben Parsons (HQV)
  9. Samuel Evans (KTM)
  10. Lyndon Snodgrass (KAW)

XC2 250 Pro Series Standings

  1. Jonathan Girroir (270)
  2. Craig Delong (266)
  3. Michael Witkowski (264)
  4. Cody Barnes (195)
  5. Liam Draper (176)
  6. Thorn Devlin (145)
  7. Jonathan Johnson (127)
  8. Ryder Lafferty (119)
  9. Benjamin Nelko (102)
  10. Jesse Ansley (90)
x Dunlop Gen Web Banner
Moto News Weekly proudly brought to you by Dunlop

Dunlop dominate AMA Pro Motocross titles yet again

The 2020 Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship came down to the final round at Pala Raceway in Southern California. And for the eleventh consecutive year, Dunlop riders took both the 250 and 450 National Motocross Championships. Dunlop’s Geomax tires rolled onto podiums all year, sweeping all top ten spots in the 450 championship, and taking the top five positions in the 250 championship. By capturing all the pro titles in 2020, Dunlop riders have now won 163 AMA Motocross and Supercross Championships.

450s

Zach Osborne came into the season with a new determination to win after finishing fifth last year, and he posted overall victories at the opening rounds, then grabbed four more wins to build a 24-point championship lead going into the final event. Team Dunlop Elite alum, Adam Cianciarulo (2019 250 motocross champ), stepped into the premier class this year with high expectations, but spent the season clawing his way back into title contention after an early round DNF robbed him of valuable points. He won four times and put himself back in the title hunt coming into Pala. It was a classic showdown— Cianciarulo, the 450-class rookie, versus Osborne, the veteran eyeing his first 450 title 14 years after turning pro.

Zach Osborne – Image by Jeff Kardas

Cianciarulo did everything he could to stop Osborne at Pala, setting a blistering pace while leading both motos, ultimately ending the day with 2-3 finishes, and a second in the 450 championship. Fellow Team Dunlop Elite alum Chase Sexton set fastest qualifying time, and took his first 450-class overall win, giving the field something to think about over the winter. But it was Osborne’s point lead to lose and he took no chances, posting conservative 5-6 finishes to win his first AMA 450 National Championship with 12 points to spare.

250s

The 250 title was even tighter. Frenchman Dylan Ferrandis headed into Pala with an 18-point lead over Jeremy Martin thanks to eight moto victories, including a late season tear of five straight wins to put himself in the points lead. But at Pala, it was 17-year-old Australian rookie sensation Jett Lawrence who went 1-2 for his first professional overall win, launching himself to fourth in points for the year. Martin won the second race by nearly 20 seconds, but Ferrandis finished the day with 2-5 moto scores to lock up the AMA 250 National Championship ahead of Martin, Shane McElrath, Lawrence, and Justin Cooper to make it a clean sweep of the top five title spots for Dunlop.

Jett Lawrence – Image by Jeff Kardas

Dunlop riders have now won every AMA Pro Supercross and Motocross championship since 2010. No other tire company comes close to an eleven-year win streak. The Geomax tires favored by the top motocross pros are developed with constant input from those same professionals, and this continual evolution of the Geomax line ensures Dunlop customers get nothing short of pro-level performance.

There have been many challenges in 2020, so it’s with an extra nod that we congratulate the 2020 motocross champions, and all the riders who chose to compete on Dunlop’s premium performance motorcycle tyres this year.


Hunter Lawrence heading for more shoulder surgery

“Hey guys, so unfortunately my shoulder popped out in 2nd qualification at @foxraceway which wasn’t ideal but after the first shoulder injury back at Loretta Lyns we knew there was a chance it could be good and a chance it could happen again and we rolled the dice and gambled on building my shoulder stronger even more which did help me get thru the rest if the races but it could not handle my 100% which i felt like i was coming into full form these past two weekends, going to take a few weeks after the small surgery to tidy it up and be ready for a great 2021. Thankyou to everyone who has supported me and to @fchonda for giving me the chance to come to the Country of opportunity and chase my dreams, will never be forgotten. Thankyou Team”

Hunter Lawrence pulled out of the AMA Pro Motocross finale after his shoulder popped out in qualifying
x Dunlop Gen Web Banner
Moto News Weekly proudly brought to you by Dunlop

Source: MCNews.com.au

Moto News Wrap | ISDE | SX | MX | AORC | Speedway

Moto News Weekly for December 24, 2019

Proudly brought to you by Dunlop Geomax
x Dunlop Gen Web Banner
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop

What happened this week

  • International Six Days of Enduro heads to Italy in 2020
  • Strong Aussie line-up for 2020 Anaheim SX
  • OZ Speedway goes global with streaming
  • Yamaha the major sponsor of 2020 AORC
  • 2020 FIM Speedway of Nations heads to Manchester, England
  • 2020 125cc Solo Speedway line-up announced
  • Red Bull KTM Factory Racing sign Manuel Lettenbichler
  • Aaron Tanti and Dylan Walsh to Serco Yamaha in 2020
  • GasGas Factory Racing sign Albert Cabestany
  • Australian Supercross celebrate successful 2019 season
  • MA announce 2020 Dirt Track and Track updates
  • 2020 Australian Motocross Championship calendar announced
  • 2020 NSW State Motocross Championship announced
  • 2020 Championship Calendars
    • 2020 AMA Motocross
    • 2020 Monster Energy AMA Supercross
    • 2020 MXGP
    • 2020 American Flat Track
    • 2020 Australian Speedway Senior Solo Speedway
    • 2020 FIM Speedway GP Championship
    • 2020 Australian Dirt Track Championship
    • 2020 Australian Track Championship
    • 2020 Australian Off-Road Championship (AORC)
    • 2020 FIM SuperEnduro Championship
    • 2020 AMA Extreme Off-Road East/West
    • 2020 FIM Flat Track World Championship

International Six Days of Enduro heads to Italy in 2020

For what will be the 95th edition of the FIM’s longest-running motorcycle race, the 2020 FIM ISDE will be held in Rivanazzano Terme in northern Italy from 31 August to 5 September. A nation rich in Enduro heritage, Italy last held the FIM ISDE in 2013 on the island of Sardinia.

ISDE Day ImageDarioAgrati
2019 ISDE – Image by Dario Agrati

In 2020, it will be the Apennies region of Lombardy and Piedmont that will showcase the beauty of the country to off-road motorcycling enthusiasts from around the World. For race week Rivanazzano Terme’s air strip will turn into the headquarters for this iconic race.

Its buildings will offer full facilities to organisers and the World’s attending media, while the runaway itself will provide a spacious and hard standing working environment for all competing nations. There will also be room for a separate three-hundred-pitch camping area to accommodate competitors and spectators alike.

From Rivanazzano Terme’s air strip the race will lead riders out into the surrounding Apennies mountain region each day, with three unique courses to test both the World’s best Enduro riders and courageous amateurs.

As per tradition, the competition will sign off with a Motocross race on day six at Ottobiano Motorsport. With the circuit previously hosting the FIM MXGP Motocross World Championship it will ensure a fitting and spectacular ending to the 2020 FIM ISDE.

x Dunlop Gen Web Banner
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop

Strong Aussie line-up for 2020 Anaheim SX

With the 2020 Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship less than a month away, the Australian contingent that’ll represent the green and gold will be the strongest it’s been in a decade.

Australian legend Chad Reed will sport the deuce deuce in his final A1 appearance, as he looks to conclude an illustrious career having earnt two World Supercross Championships.

Australian SX Rnd Melbourne ReedFinalC
Chad Reed – Image by AM

The Lawrence brothers of Jett and Hunter are meanwhile set to make their World Supercross debuts for Geico Honda in 2020. Jett is confirmed on the West Coast, however Hunter’s future in that regard is unclear, with either A1 or the East Coast opener inside Tampa’s Raymond James Stadium the destination for his Supercross debut.

Australian SX Rnd Melbourne LawrenceFinalB
Jett Lawrence – Image by AM

Luke Clout has teamed up with Australian backed Penrite Honda Racing to take on the 250 West Coast Supercross rounds as the team expands into the United States.

Luke Clout Penrite Honda Racing
Luke Clout – Image by Michael Antonovich

Joining Clout on the West is his Serco Yamaha teammate from 2013, Jay Wilson, who’s put together his own Yamaha program to compete in the mostly Californian rounds.

Australian SX Rnd Melbourne WilsonQualB
Jay Wilson – Image by AM

Stalwart young privateer Joel Wightman too will make the jump over in the premier 450cc Class, whilst Serco Yamaha’s Aaron Tanti joins Wilson and co. in the opening 250cc West rounds.

Australian SX Rnd Melbourne Wightmanrace
Joel Wightman – Image by AM

The rapid rise of the Australian Supercross Championship is a major player in domestic Supercross development, with the 2019 series accelerating the professionalism of the sport within Australia, along with providing the springboard for young talent to pursue their dream on the world stage.

AMA MX Rnd Lawrence JK MX Spring Creek
Hunter Lawrence – Image by Hoppenworld

Chad Reed has shouldered the load for Australia in Supercross for the last decade, however it’s apparent that the nation is once again on the map worldwide, with a barrage of riders lining up and prepared to take on the world’s best in 2020.

See below for the full 2020 AMA SX calendar.

x Dunlop Gen Web Banner
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop

OZ Speedway goes global with streaming

Australia’s 2020 Senior Solo Speedway Championship rounds, which will be held at Albury-Wodonga Speedway in Victoria, and Gillman Speedway in South Australia, will be live streamed to the world, following Motorcycling Australia securing the deal with NRGTV.

OZ Speedway goes global with streaming
OZ Speedway to stream in 2020

A star studded 16-man field of former World and Australian Champions is set to kickstart the championship including 2016 under 21 World Champion Max Fricke and 2012 Speedway Grand Prix World Champion Chris Holder at Albury-Wodonga on January 6, and Gillman January 11.

The live stream will be available FREE at both events (stream times TBC) via www.australianspeedwaychampionships.com.au (link) and returning to the commentary box will be Kevin Williams and three-time World Speedway Champion Jason Crump.

With no brakes, gears or fear, the Australian Senior Solo Speedway Championship at Albury-Wodonga and Gillman Speedways is expected to capture a significant worldwide audience particularly through Europe.

Sam Redfern – Motorcycling Australia Track Events Manager

“This is one of the strongest championship fields we have produced which will guarantee spectators see some of the best racing of the new year both here in Australia and around the world.”


Yamaha the major sponsor of 2020 AORC

Motorcycling Australia have announced Yamaha Motor Australia as the major sponsor of the 2020 Australian Off-Road Championship, with 2020 marking the 15th consecutive year.

The partnership sees a significant expansion of the 2020 Yamaha Australian Off-Road Championship (AORC) which will feature 15 classes of competition, with new junior classes, the return of the 2 Stroke Cup, and Vintage class and continuation of all senior classes.

AORC Hedley Pro Race Start
2019 AORC – Pro Race Start – Hedley, Victoria

The expanded competition will take championship rounds to Queensland, New South Wales, South Australia, Victoria and for the first time in history Tasmania and include sprint, cross country and enduro formats.

This 15-year partnership has produced a credible, sustainable and dependable championship for off-road racing enthusiasts that not only caters for grass roots motorcycling but has also produced talented riders that have gone on to the greatest of heights on the world stage.

Yamaha Motorsport Manager, Ray Howard, said Yamaha was dedicated to supporting the AORC and its expansion in 2020.

Ray Howard – Yamaha Motorsport Manager

“Yamaha Motor Australia are pleased to continue our substantial and positive relationships with Motorcycling Australia and the Yamaha Australian Off-Road Championship in 2020. 2019 was a sensational season and we believe with improvements to the 2020 calendar with new classes and adding Tasmania to the championship there will be even greater progress and improved development of off-road racing in Australia. We look forward to continue working closely with MA and local clubs throughout Australia to further develop the championship that has proven to be a fertile ground for producing international standard riders.”

x Dunlop Gen Web Banner
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop

2020 FIM Speedway of Nations heads to Manchester, England

The 2020 FIM Speedway of Nations world champions will be crowned at Great Britain’s National Speedway Stadium in Manchester, with German track Landshut and Latvian circuit Daugavpils confirmed to host the semi-finals.

Speedway of Nations Team Australia
Team Australia at the 2019 Speedway of Nations

The Finals of speedway’s world team championship will take place on May 8 and 9, with GB seeded through automatically as host nation.

This will be the first time Great Britain has hosted the Monster Energy SON Finals, while GB’s opponents will be decided at the two semi-finals, with Semi-Final 1 taking place at Bavarian track Landshut on April 25 and Semi-Final 2 being hosted by Daugavpils on May 2.

Three nations from each round will qualify for the Monster Energy SON Finals in Manchester, joining Great Britain.

2020 FIM Speedway of Nations Calendar

  • April 25: Semi-Final 1: Landshut, Germany
  • May 2: Semi-Final 2: Daugavpils, Latvia
  • May 8/9: Finals: Manchester, Great Britain

2020 Speedway of Nations Semi-Final Draw

  • Semi-Final 1: Landshut, Germany (April 25): Germany, Poland, Denmark, Slovenia, Czech Republic, France and Italy.
  • Semi-Final 2: DAUGAVPILS, LATVIA (May 2): Latvia, Russia, Australia, Sweden, Ukraine, Finland and USA.

2020 125cc Solo Speedway line-up announced

Motorcycling Australia have released the list of riders selected to compete in the 2020 Australian 125cc Solo Speedway Championship at Pinjar, Western Australia, with a 16-rider field selected, as well as the 125cc Teams Championship which will kick-off the Championship at Pinjar Park on the weekend of January 17.

cc Solo Speedway line up announcedcc Solo Speedway line up announcedMotorcycling Australia Track Events Manager, Sam Redfern, said the 16-rider solo and seven teams fielded shows Australia’s speedway talent was flourishing.

Sam Redfern – Motorcycling Australia Track Events Manager

“This is a fantastic field of Australian talent for the 2020 solo championship and 125cc teams championship. Australian speedway is in a very healthy state and we have the talent to represent Australia on the world stage. I would certainly encourage speedway fans to get to Pinjar on the weekend of January 17 for what will be a fantastic championship meet.”

Due to a lack of nominations in the 250cc class, it will not proceed.

x Dunlop Gen Web Banner
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop

Red Bull KTM Factory Racing sign Manuel Lettenbichler

Red Bull KTM Factory Racing have announced the signing of 2019 WESS Enduro World Champion Manuel Lettenbichler. The 21-year-old German joins the factory team with immediate effect as part of a two-year deal for 2020 and 2021.

Manuel Lettenbichler Red Bull KTM Factory Racing
Manuel Lettenbichler

Lettenbichler recently completed his most successful season to date, with the young German clinching the 2019 WESS Enduro World Championship title following a winning ride at the final round of the series, the GetzenRodeo.

Throughout 2019 Lettenbichler established himself as one of the world’s leading enduro competitors. With victories at Red Bull Romaniacs and GetzenRodeo, plus podium results at Extreme XL Lagares, Erzbergrodeo Red Bull Hare Scramble and the Hawkstone Park Cross-Country, he achieved a total of seven top-five results from eight championship starts, on route to securing his debut WESS world title.

Additionally, ‘Mani’ added further silverware to his 2019 trophy cabinet by winning the AMA Extreme Offroad Grand Championship when he became the first non-American rider to win the Tennessee Knockout Extreme Enduro.

Lettenbichler joins riders Jonny Walker, Josep Garcia and Nathan Watson for 2020, where he’ll aim to successfully defend his WESS Enduro World Championship crown. Additionally, the young German will also contest selected AMA U.S. Extreme Offroad events.

Manuel Lettenbichler

“I’m really excited to join Red Bull KTM Factory Racing for 2020 and beyond. I’ve ridden KTM motorcycles since I started in enduro but joining the factory team really feels like the next chapter of my career is really beginning now. They are a team I’ve looked up to for a long time. We’ve worked closely together during the last two years, so I know how professional they are and I’m excited to make this an even closer relationship. I’m looking forward to the season ahead and know that racing to defend my title will be a lot of fun. I can’t wait to get started.”

x Dunlop Gen Web Banner
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop

Aaron Tanti and Dylan Walsh to Serco Yamaha in 2020

Yamaha’s MX2 race team Serco Yamaha have announced the signings of Aaron Tanti and Dylan Walsh to steer their YZ250F’s in 2020. Both riders are contracted to do the MX Nationals and the Australian Supercross Championships in the MX2 and SX2 (250cc) divisions and are out for nothing short of championship success.

Tanti returns to the team after laying solid foundations in 2019. Tanti finished fifth in the MX Nationals but was consistently in the lead group and unlucky not to finish higher in the championship standings.

He produced a break out season in Supercross, battling with the US stars on his way to fifth place in the championship, despite not finishing the final round. Although injured from a fall at the final round of Supercross, Tanti has taken to the US to keep racing and training as he prepares for the 2020 onslaught.

Aaron Tanti

“This is the first time in my career I have been with the one team for more than one season, so the stability is something that I like and allows me to make plans knowing that I have the support of Serco Yamaha for 2020. I have a great working relationship with Gavin and the Serco Yamaha team and we were quickly able to get something sorted for the 2020 season a little while ago so that allowed me to focus on my racing and training knowing that things are in place for next season. The YZ250F is an unbelievable bike and we already have a great platform to go ahead even further in 2020 as the team and myself have extensive knowledge and testing already done. It’s awesome to be able to continue with Serco Yamaha and look forward to another successful year with the team.”

Australian SX Rnd Melbourne TantiQual
Aaron Tanti – Image by AM

Joining Tanti for 2020 will be a new comer to Australian shores, Dylan Walsh. The New Zealand native has been competing in Europe for the past few seasons, highlighted with victory in the British MX2 Championship in 2019, but will return down under for the 2020 and make his debut in the Australian MX Nationals. Walsh will start his year racing in New Zealand before coming to Australia in March and begin the championship chase.

Dylan Walsh

“I would love to have stayed in Europe and continued racing as I felt that I would be a contender in MX2 this year but with the tight economy, my team shut down and I was left with nothing. Australia was the first place I looked when I got the news, and at the same time, Gavin has been doing some research on me, so it all worked out smoothly and here we are. Serco Yamaha have a great reputation and also a lot of success over the years in both motocross and supercross so its awesome to be part of such a strong and committed team. My plan is to stay in New Zealand and do the Nationals over here as a warm up for the MX Nationals in Australia. I will then base myself in South East Queensland to be near the team and get stuck into racing in Australia. I’m both exciting and looking forward to the new challenge and know that the level of racing in Australia is very good at the moment. I watched the racing regularly while I was in Europe and its no coincidence that many MXGP teams are looking at Australian riders. But I’m fit and ready to go and hoping for a great season both here in New Zealand and Australia.”

x Dunlop Gen Web Banner
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop

GasGas Factory Racing sign Albert Cabestany

GasGas Factory Racing have announce the signing of Albert Cabestany, who will compete in the 2020 FIM Trial-E World Cup, assisting GasGas to push forward with the development of electric powered machinery, aboard the GasGas TXE.

Albert Cabestany

“I’m looking forward to this great opportunity with GasGas Motorcycles. Winning this year’s Trial-E World Cup with the TXE gave me a real insight into the true potential of this exciting motorcycle. I was very impressed with its capabilities and know that moving forward we can raise the bar again in 2020. It’s going to be a lot of fun fighting to defend my crown and hopefully delivering GasGas a fourth consecutive title.”

Albert Cabastany GasGas Factory Racing GasGas TXE
Albert Cabastany – GasGas Factory Racing

Cabestany is a name that needs little introduction in trials. Arguably one of the sport’s most successful riders, Albert impressively achieved nine wins and over 80 podium results during his 21-year-long FIM Trial World Championship career.

Coming together with GasGas Factory Racing for a one-off outing at the 2019 FIM Trial-E World Cup, Cabestany instantly gelled with the TXE, winning both rounds of the series to clinch the title in style. With his experience and vast trials knowledge the Spaniard is a natural fit to assist GasGas with the ongoing development of its TXE machine.

Albert Cabastany GasGas Factory Racing GasGas TXE
Albert Cabastany – GasGas Factory Racing

The three-round 2020 FIM Trial-E World Cup takes place in Andorra, Italy and France.


Australian Supercross celebrate successful 2019 season

Following attendance across the five rounds polling at 70,000, the 2019 Australian Supercross championship has been heralded a major success, with each round – bar Adelaide – also having a broadcast presence, giving an even wider audience.

The International interest from riders year on year too is undeniable, with more and more world-class caliber riders making the trip Down Under prior to their World Supercross Championship assault.

Australian SX Rnd Melbourne SXHeatstartD
2019 Aus-X Open – Image by AM

General rider numbers were on the increase too, especially in Wollongong where riders in both the SX1 and SX2 Classes were required to qualify for the night show – which is something that hasn’t happened in the series for a number of years. Overall, rider participation in the Australian Supercross Championship for 2019 was the strongest it’s been in at least the last decade.

Planning is now well underway for the 2020 Australian Supercross Championship and with an increasingly solid foundation in place, is expected to continue it’s steady growth in viewer eyeballs, event attendance and incredible racing competition. Stay tuned for more details on the 2020 Australian Supercross season.

x Dunlop Gen Web Banner
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop

MA announce 2020 Dirt Track and Track updates

The following official Information Bulletin has been released by Motorcycle Australia, advising of a number of changes for the 2020 Dirt Track and Track seasons, regarding classes and competition.

Information Bulletin #2003 : 18/12/2019

Affected Disciplines: Dirt Track and Track

Information Pertains to: Dirt Track and Track Chapter Combination and Alterations to the 2020 MoMS

Updated: It was a directive from MA and the MA Board to combine the Dirt Track and Track Chapters. The intention with combining these chapters is for equality and fairness, safety and simplifying the rules as these disciplines are similar, but not the same.

Major changes implemented for 2020

  • 15.2 Junior class age brackets
  • Slider and MX bikes and classes are separated. (As per new rule 15.5.0.6)
  • Standard Wheel and Big Wheel bikes in classes will compete together.
  • 15.5.0.6 Rule deletion

The Commission and the Rules and Technical Committee have approved this Chapter and these updates as they are presented. We understand that in doing this there will be teething problems and not everyone will be satisfied with all rules. If you wish to propose a change to these rules they can do so by following the Rule Change Process as outlined on Pages 6 & 7 of the MoMS.

Current Classes

Categories for Australian Dirt Track & Track Championship Classes; (as will appear in the printed 2020 MoMS)

15.1 SENIORS

  • Pro 250 100cc to 150cc 2stroke / 200cc to 250cc 4stroke
  • Pro 450 250cc 2stroke/450cc 4stroke
  • MX Open 500cc 2stroke/Over 460cc 4stroke
  • 250 Slider 150cc 2stroke & 250cc 4stroke
  • 500cc Slider Up to 500cc
  • Slider Open Unlimited 460cc and over
  • Pro Open Women Unlimited
  • Sidecar Up to 1100cc
  • ATV Open Up to 550cc 2stroke/700cc 4stroke
  • ATV Open Women Up to 550cc 2stroke/700cc 4stroke

15.2 JUNIORS

  • 7-u9  – 50cc Auto Div 2 Non Championship
  • 7-u9 – 65cc
  • 9-u13 – 65cc
  • 7-u10 –  85cc 4stroke Modified
  • 10-u14  – 85cc 4stroke Modified
  • 9-u1211 – 85cc 2stroke/150cc 4stroke Standard Wheel
  • 11-u1613 – 85cc 2stroke/150cc 4stroke Standard Wheel
  • 13-u16  – 85cc 2stroke/150cc 4stroke Standard Wheel
  • 11-u13  –  85cc 2stroke/150cc 4stroke Big Wheel
  • 13-u16  –  85cc 2stroke/150cc 4stroke Big Wheel
  • 11-u16 – 85cc 2stroke/150cc 4stroke Girls Standard & Big Wheel
  • 13-u16  – 85cc 2stroke/150cc 4stroke Slider Only
  • 13-u16 – 100cc to 150cc 2stroke
  • 13-u16 – 100cc to 150cc 2stroke
    •   – 200cc to 250cc 4stroke
  • 13-u16 – 100cc to 150cc 2stroke &
    •   – 200cc to 250cc 4stroke Slider Only
  • 13-u16 – 200cc to 250cc 4stroke

New/Updated Classes

Categories for Australian Dirt Track & Track Championship & Competition Classes; (as will appear in the online 2020 MoMS)

15.1 SENIORS

  • Pro 250 – 100cc to 150cc 2stroke / 200cc to 250cc 4stroke (MX)
  • Pro 450 – 250cc 2stroke/450cc 4stroke (MX)
  • MX Open – 500cc 2stroke/Over 460cc 4stroke (MX)
  • Pro Open Women – Unlimited (MX)
  • 250 Slider – 150cc 2stroke & 250cc 4stroke  * removed due to lack of competitors
  • 500cc Slider – Up to 500cc
  • Slider Open – Unlimited 460cc and over
  • Sidecar – Up to 1100cc
  • ATV Open – Up to 550cc 2stroke/700cc 4stroke
  • ATV Open Women – Up to 550cc 2stroke/700cc 4stroke

15.2 JUNIORS

  • 4-u9 – 50cc Demo Division 1 Non Competitive
  • 7-u9 – 50cc Auto Div 2 Non Championship     * rationale for change below
  • 7-u9 – 65cc
  • 9-u13 – 65cc
  • 7-u1210 – 85cc 4stroke Modified                * typing correction
  • 9-u1311 – 85cc 2stroke/150cc 4stroke        * 2 class options for 12 year olds
  • 1211-u16 – 85cc 2stroke/150cc 4stroke
  • 11-u16 – 85cc 2stroke/150cc 4stroke Girls Standard & Big Wheel
  • 13-u16 – 85cc 2stroke/150cc 4stroke Slider Only  * removed due to insufficient entries
  • 13-u16 – 100cc to 150cc 2stroke
  • 13-u16 –  100cc to 150cc 2stroke              * removed due to duplication
  • 13-u16 – 100cc to 150cc 2stroke &           * removed as several other class options
    • – 200cc to 250cc 4stroke
  • 13-u16 – 200cc to 250cc 4stroke

Rationale for the 7-u9 50cc Divi 2 class being changed to a Non Championship class is to ensure the children are here for development and fun with as little pressure and stress on them to win as possible. We do not want children to be pushed prematurely. These are young children and should not be stressed to race and win an Australian Championship, they will have the rest of their riding lives to chase titles if they choose to do so. It is also the hope this will bring bike costs and affordability down.

New Rule

15.5.0.6 Slider and MX machines are to compete separately, in their specified classes.
Rationale being the Commission and the Rules & Technical Committee advise this is because they are different machines, with different styles, performance, machine requirements etc.

Rule removal

The below rule is to be removed;

15.4.1.2 Riders are eligible to enter one class above capacity of the machine entered (senior riders only).

Rationale for this rule being removed, is that capacity machines should be racing with comparable machines as they were designed. This will reduce over subscribed combined classes and in turn will come back to competitors as more of their class events on track.

Number Board Colours for Juniors

Tips to understanding and using the correct number board colours for your child.
Understand child’s age as at 1st of January of that race year (2020). For Example, my child turned 12 on the 20th of June 2019, so as at the 1st of January 2020 my child is 12 years old, and can compete in this class all year. If my child decides to move up to a 13 year old class throughout the year, they can no longer go back down and compete in 12 year old classes.

Chose a racing class (for example 9-u13 85cc 2stroke or 9-u13 65cc etc)

Identify the age bracket on the number board colour table (15.9.3.2) which is most suitable and colour will be Canary Yellow boards with black numbers)

You can only compete in one age group class.

Wheel Sizes;

Several corrections and duplications have been identified and updated.

Current Rule; 15.20.9 Wheel Sizes

CLASS FRONT REAR

Approx. Metric Equiv. in mm] [Approx. Metric Equiv. in mm]
50cc Auto/Demo Class 10” or 12” [254 or 305] 10” [254]
65cc 14” to 15” [356 to 381] 12” [305]
80cc 4-stroke Standard & Modified 16” to 17” [407 to 432] 14” [356]
85cc 2-stroke & 150cc 4-stroke 15” to 17” [381 to 432] 14” [356]
85cc 2-stroke & 150cc 4-stroke Big Wheel 17”19” to 19”21” [432482 to 482534] 16” to 17”19” [407 to 432482]
85cc 2-stroke & 150cc 4-stroke Big Wheel 17” to 19” [432 to 482] 16” to 17” [407 to 457]
(Dirt Track & Track)
85cc 2-stroke & 150cc 4-stroke 17” [457] 14” [356]
Standard Wheel (Dirt Track & Track)
100cc 18” to 21” [457 to 534] 16” to 19” [407 to 482]
125cc & over 17” to 21” [432 to 534] 16” to 19” [407 to 482]
250cc 4-stroke 17” to 23” [432 to 586] 16” to 19” [407 to 482]

New/Updated Rule; 15.20.9 Wheel Sizes

CLASS FRONT REAR

Approx. Metric Equiv. in mm] [Approx. Metric Equiv. in mm]
50cc Auto/Demo Class 10” or 12” [254 or 305] 10” [254]
65cc 14” to 15” [356 to 381] 12” [305]
85cc80cc 4-stroke Standard & Modified 16” to 17” [407 to 432] 14” [356]
85cc 2-stroke & 150cc 4-stroke 15” to 19”17” [381 to 482432] 14” to 17” [356 to 432]
85cc 2-stroke & 150cc 4-stroke Big Wheel 17”19” to 19”21” [432482 to 482534] 16” to 17”19” [407 to 432482]
85cc 2-stroke & 150cc 4-stroke Big Wheel 17” to 19” [432 to 482] 16” to 17” [407 to 457]
(Dirt Track & Track)
85cc 2-stroke & 150cc 4-stroke 17” [457] 14” [356]
Standard Wheel (Dirt Track & Track)
100cc 18” to 21” [457 to 534] 16” to 19” [407 to 482]
125cc & over 17” to 21” [432 to 534] 16” to 19” [407 to 482]
250cc 4-stroke 17” to 23” [432 to 586] 16” to 19” [407 to 482]

Effective from: 1/1/2020

Note: As rules can be changed throughout the year, please view the most up to date MoMS at www.ma.org.au. Please see the MA website for Rule Change Request processes and documents.

x Dunlop Gen Web Banner
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop

2020 Australian Motocross Championship calendar announced

Motorcycling Australia and Williams Event Management have announced the 2020 Australian Motocross National Championship calendar. The series will be conducted over six weekends with nine rounds and three double header events.

2015 KTM Australian Motocross Championship - Image by
Australian Motocross Championship – Image by

A number of factors have required changes to the 2020 calendar particularly around community, rider and spectator safety.

Original plans had the MX Nationals Pro Am at Traralgon in February for the Australian Women’s Vets and Under 19’s. But due to the extreme dry weather conditions and high fire danger risk the Traralgon event was cancelled, with a hope to reschedule it in the coming months.

There have been some major changes to the championship over the last five years, and riders and spectators will see changes again next year to fit within the current climate.

2020 Australian Motocross National Championship dates

  • Round 1 & 2 Horsham, Victoiria April 4/5
  • Round 3 Newry, Victoria May 3
  • Round 4 Gympie, Qld May 24
  • Round 5 Conondale, QLD June 28
  • Round 6 & 7 Maitland, NSW July 25/26
  • Round 8 & 9 Coolum, QLD August 22/23

The series will see several changes in order to ensure the future development and progress of the sport. All rounds will have two moto format only, and other changes are being considered. The supplementary regulation will be release in the first week of February.


2020 NSW State Motocross Championship announced

Motorcycling NSW have announced the 2020 King of MX calendar, with the series heading into its third year and continuing to encourage local racers in each of the six state regions to enter their local qualifier.

The King of MX was designed to revitalise the NSW State Motocross Championship, supporting regional clubs and their members by bringing a larger scale open event to them, where local club racers can throw down against those choosing to travel.

King of MX 2018
King of MX

2020 will see new partners combined with some long-term supporters to not only maintain the overall prize pool, but also tailor more prizes to those who do well at a qualifier, not just the final.

As with previous years, the King of MX will consist of six qualifying events, where the first six or seven (depending on the gates available at each qualifier) riders in each class will earn a ‘golden ticket’ to the final. Once a golden ticket is earned, riders don’t have to race any other qualifiers unless they want to, however each rider is only eligible to earn one golden ticket per class.

At the final, in a location that will be announced in due course, State Title Champions will be decided on the June long weekend, over three motos for each class, with the Prince and Princess of MX crowned from the 13 to under-16 years 250F (128cc-150cc 2st & 200cc-250cc 4st, 13 to u/16 years) and 13 to under-16 years girls’ class (100cc-150cc 2st & 200cc- 250cc 4st, 13 to u/16 years, all female) winners.

King of MX Nowra Podium
2019 King of MX Final winners

The 2020 King and Queen of MX will once again battle it out across their respective feature races, with racers selected based on the results of the senior class races. For more information on the 2020 King of MX, head to the brand-new website www.kingofmx.com.au

2020 King of MX Calendar

  • Qualifier 1 – February 15-16, Bega – Top 7 qualify for final
  • Qualifier 2 – February 29-1 March, Narrabri – Top 7 qualify for final
  • Qualifier 3 – March 14-15, Bathurst – Top 6 qualify for final
  • Qualifier 4 – March 28-29, Wagga Wagga – Top 6 qualify for final
  • Qualifier 5 – April 18-19, Lake Macquarie -Top 7 qualify for final
  • Qualifier 6 – May 9-10, Sydney – Top 7 qualify for final
  • Final – June 6-8, Undisclosed Location

NSW State Motocross Championship Classes

  • Nippers 4-u/7 years – Demonstration Only
  • 50cc Division 2 – 7-u/9 years
  • 65cc 7-u/10 years
  • 65cc 10-u/12 years
  • 85cc 2st/150cc 4st 9-u/12 years {standard wheel}
  • 85cc 2st /150cc 4st 12-u/14 years {standard & big wheel}
  • 85cc 2st/150cc 4st 14-u/16 years {standard & big wheel}
  • 85cc 2st/150cc 4st 12-u/16 years All Female {standard & big wheel}
  • 100cc-150cc 2st & 200cc- 250cc 4st 13-u/16 years All Female
  • 100cc-125cc 2st 13-u/16 years
  • 128cc-150cc 2st & 200cc-250cc 4st 13-u/16 years
  • MXW All Powers
  • MX1 A-Grade 255cc-450cc 2st/4st
  • MX1 B-Grade 255cc-450cc 2st/4st
  • C Grade Open
  • MX2 A-Grade up to 250cc 2st/4st
  • MX2 B-Grade up to 250cc 2st/4st
  • C Grade Lites
  • +35 Vets All Powers
x Dunlop Gen Web Banner
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop

2020 Championship Calendars

2020 AMA Motocross race schedule

  • May 17 – Hangtown Motocross Classic – Rancho Cordova, CA
  • May 24 – Fox Raceway National – Pala, CA
  • May 31 – Thunder Valley National – Lakewood, CO
  • June 7 – Florida National – Jacksonville, FL
  • June 21 – High Point National – Mt. Morris, PA
  • June 28 – Southwick National – Southwick, MA
  • July 5 – RedBud National – Buchanan, MI
  • July 19 – Spring Creek National – Millville, MN
  • July 26 – Washougal National – Washougal, WA
  • August 16 – Unadilla National – New Berlin, NY
  • August 23 – Budds Creek National – Mechanicsville, MD
  • August 30 – Ironman National – Crawfordsville, IN

2020 Monster Energy AMA Supercross Calendar

  • Jan. 4 – Angels Stadium of Anaheim, Anaheim, Calif.
  • Jan. 11 – The Dome at America’s Center, St. Louis, Mo.
  • Jan. 18 – Angels Stadium of Anaheim, Anaheim, Calif.
  • Jan. 25 – State Farm Stadium, Glendale, Ariz.
  • Feb. 1 – Ringcentral Coliseum, Oakland, Calif.
  • Feb. 8 – Petco Park, San Diego, Calif.
  • Feb. 15 – Raymond James Stadium, Tampa, Fla.
  • Feb. 22 – AT&T Stadium, Arlington, Texas
  • Feb. 29 – Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, Ga.
  • March 7 – Daytona International Speedway, Daytona, Fla.
  • March 14 – Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianpolis, Ind.
  • March 21 – Ford Field, Detroit, Mich.
  • March 28 – Centurylink Field, Seattle, Wash.
  • April 4 – Broncos Stadium at Mile High, Denver, Co.
  • April 18 – Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, Mass.
  • April 25 – Sam Boyd Stadium, Las Vegas, Nev.
  • May 2 – Rice-Eccles Stadium, Salt Lake City, Utah

2020 MXGP Calendar

  • March 1 – Great Britain, Matterley Basin (EMX125, WMX)
  • March 8 – The Netherlands, Valkenswaard – (EMX250, WMX)
  • March 22 – Patagonia, Argentina, Neuquen
  • April 5 – Trentino I, Pietramurata – (EMX250, EMX 2t)
  • April 19 – Spain, (TBA) – (EMX125, WMX)
  • April 26 – Portugal, Agueda – (EMX125, EMX250)
  • May 10 – France, Saint Jean d’Angely – (EMX125, EMX Open)
  • May 17 – Italy, Maggiora – (EMX Open, WMX)
  • May 24 – Germany, Teutschenthal – (EMX250, EMX Open)
  • June 7 – Russia, Orlyonok – (EMX250, EMX Open)
  • June 14 – Latvia, Kegums – (EMX250, EMX Open)
  • June 28 – Indonesia, Jakarta
  • July 5 – Indonesia, Palembang
  • July 26 – Czech Republic, Loket – (EMX65, EMX85, EMX 2t)
  • August 2 – Belgium, Lommel – (EMX125, EMX250)
  • August 16 – Sweden, Uddevalla – (EMX125, EMX250)
  • August 23 – Finland, Litti-KymiRing – (EMX125, EMX250, EMX 2t)
  • September 6 – Turkey, Afyonkarahisar – (EMX Open, WMX)
  • September 13 – China, (TBA) –
  • September 20 – Emilia Romagna, Imola – (EMX125, WMX)
  • September 27 – Motocross of Nations, France, Ernee

2020 American Flat Track

  • Round 1. March 14: Daytona 200 &  TT – Daytona Speedway, FL
  • Round 2. March 28: Atlanta Short Track – Dixie Speedway, Woodstock, GA
  • Round 3. April 4: Charlotte Half-Mile – Charlotte Speedway, Concord, NC
  • Round 4. May 2: Texas Half-Mile – Texas Speedway, Fort Worth, TX
  • Round 5. May 9: So-Cal Half-Mile – Perris Speedway, Perris, CA
  • Round 6. May 16: Sacramento Mile – Cal Expo, Sacramento, CA
  • Round 7. May 30: Red Mile – Red Mile, Lexington, KY
  • Round 8. June 13: Laconia Short Track – New Hampshire Speedway, Loudon, NH
  • Round 9. June 20: OKC Mile – Remington Park, Oklahoma City, OK
  • Round 10. June 27: Lima Half-Mile – Allen County Fairgrounds, Lima, OH
  • Round 11. July 4: New York Short Track – Weedsport Speedway, Weedsport, NY
  • Round 12. August 9: Buffalo Chip TT – Buffalo Chip, Sturgis, SD
  • Round 13. August 11: Black Hills Half-Mile – Black Hills Speedway, Rapid City, SD
  • Round 14. August 22: Peoria TT – Peoria Motorcycle Club, Peoria, IL
  • Round 15. September 5: Springfield Mile I – Illinois Fairgrounds, Springfield, IL
  • Round 16. September 6: Springfield Mile II – Illinois Fairgrounds, Springfield, IL
  • Round 17. September 12: Williams Grove Half-Mile – Williams Grove Speedway, Mechanicsburg, PA
  • Round 18. September 26: Meadowlands Mile* – Meadowlands Racetrack, East Rutherford, NJ

2020 Australian Speedway Senior Solo Speedway Calendar

  • Round 1, January 3 – Kurri Kurri Speedway, Loxford Park NSW
  • Round 2, January 6 – Diamond Park, Wodonga VIC
  • Round 3, January 7 – Undera Speedway, Echuca Road, Undera VIC
  • Round 4, January 9 – Olympic Park, Regina Street, Mildura VIC
  • Round 5, January 11 – Gillman Speedway, Wilkins Road, Gillman SA

2020 WESS Enduro World Championship Schedule

  • Round 1: Extreme XL Lagares (Portugal) May 8-10
  • Round 2: Trefle Lozerien AMV (France) May 21-23
  • Round 3: Erzbergrodeo Red Bull Hare Scramble (Austria) June 10-14
  • Round 4: Red Bull 111 Megawatt (Poland ) June TBC
  • Round 5: Red Bull Romaniacs (Romania) July 21-25
  • Round 6: Tennessee Knockout (USA) August 15-16
  • Round 7: Hawkstone Park Cross-Country (UK) September TBC
  • Round 8: Hixpania Hard Enduro (Spain) October TBC

2020 FIM Speedway GP Calendar

  • May 16 – PZM Warsaw SGP of Poland – Warsaw
  • May 30 – German SGP – Teterow
  • June 13 – Czech SGP – Prague
  • July 18 – Adrian Flux British SGP – Cardiff
  • July 25 – Swedish SGP – Hallstavik
  • August 1 – Betard Wroclaw SGP of Poland – Wroclaw
  • August 15 – Scandinavian SGP – Malilla, Sweden
  • August 29 – Russian SGP – Togliatti
  • September 12 – Danish SGP sponsored by ECCO – Vojens
  • October 3 – Revline Torun SGP of Poland – Torun

2020 Australian Dirt Track Championship dates

  • April 11-12 Australian Junior Dirt Track Championships
    • Mick Doohan Raceway, QLD, North Brisbane Jnr Motorcycle Club
  • October 17-18 Australian Senior Dirt Track Championships
    • Fairburn Park, ACT Motorcycle Club

2020 Australian Track Championship dates

  • May 16-17 Australian Senior Track Championships
    • Qurindi, Tamworth, NSW, Tamworth Motorcycle Club
  • September 26-27 Australian Junior Track Championships
    • Gunnedah, NSW Gunnedah Motorcycle Club

2020 Australian Off-Road Championship Calendar

  • Round 1 & 2: Toowoomba, QLD 22 – 23 February 2020
  • Round 3 & 4: Dungog, NSW 14 – 15 March 2020
  • Round 5 & 6: Nowra, NSW 18 – 19 April 2020
  • Round 7 & 8: SA 1 – 2 August 2020
  • Round 9 & 10: Omeo, VIC 19 – 20 September 2020
  • Round 11 & 12: Wynyard, TAS 17 –18 October 2020

2020 FIM SuperEnduro World Championship Calendar

  • Round 1: December 7, 2019 – Krakow, Poland
  • Round 2: January 4 – Riesa, Germany
  • Round 3: January 18 – A Coruna, Spain
  • Round 4: February 1 – Budapest, Hungary
  • Round 5: March 14 – Lodz, Poland

2020 AMA Extreme Off-Road East/West Calendar

  • 2020 AMA Extreme Off-Road East Series
    • March 28-29: RevLimiter Extreme Enduro, Decatur, Texas
    • May 16-17: Madd Moose, Marquette, Mich.
    • July 4-5: Tough Like RORR, Tamaqua, Pa.
    • July 18-19: Fallen Timbers, Little Hocking, Ohio
    • Aug. 1-2: Battle of the Goats, Taylorsville, N.C.
  • 2020 AMA Extreme Off-Road West Series
    • Feb. 8: King of the Motos, Lucerne Valley, Calif.
    • March 28-29: RevLimiter Extreme Enduro, Decatur, Texas
    • May 2-3: EnduroFest, Reno, Nev.
    • June 6-7: Last Dog Standing, Devore, Calif.
    • June 20-21: Stix and Stones, Kellogg, Idaho
  • 2020 AMA Extreme Off-Road Grand Championship
    • Aug. 14-16: Trials Training Center, Sequatchie, Tenn.

2020 FIM Flat Track World Championship Calendar

  • Round 1 – June 13: Diedenbergen DE
  • Round 2 – July 26: Boves-Cuneo IT
  • Round 3 – September 5: Morizès FR
  • Round 4 – October 3: Pardubice CZ
x Dunlop Gen Web Banner
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop

Source: MCNews.com.au