GASGAS have three new models for 2022, adding three new motocross machines to the most comprehensive dirt bike line-up the brand has ever offered.
GasGas MC350F
For adults – the big kids – GASGAS have launched a new MC 250 2-stroke together with the MC 350F 4-stroke. All new bikes will be available from September in Australia and December in New Zealand, while continuing models will be available from August in both countries.
Giving the next generation of motocross stars a bike that bridges the gap between the MC 65 and MC 85, the new small wheel MC 85 is the perfect choice for mini racers working their way up the ranks. With a carefully designed chassis that accommodates its smaller wheels, the bike ensures uncompromised handling and performance, and is ready to shred with a simple prod of the kick starter.
Aiming for the ultimate 250cc 2-stroke motocross bike is the MC 250. With an engine that boasts tons of torque down low together with ample power up top, WP XACT Suspension it soaks up bumps and jumps no matter how hard or fast a rider hits them. And let’s not forget its mechanical simplicity and low running costs. Built for 2-stroke fans and competitive in the hands of serious racers, everyone will enjoy the experience on the MC 250.
GasGas MC 250
Saving the best ’til last as some would say, is the MC 350F is the third and final motocross bike added to the line-up. With strong, usable power and nimble handling, it’s a bike designed for fun-filled weekends at the track with your buddies. The bike is super-lightweight and for those who dare to twist the throttle that little bit harder, it’s fearlessly fast too!
When GASGAS was acquired by KTM AG late last year the Austrian company also brought the Australian distributorship of the brand in-house. They have now finished appointing their dealer network with more than 20 Australian dealerships now retailing GASGAS motorcycles.
Since coming under the KTM umbrella the GASGAS range has swelled considerably with all models benefitting from plenty of KTM DNA filtering through to the red bikes.
GasGas MC motocross line-up
Motocross bikes available from GASGAS include the MC 125, MC 250F and MC 450F.
The GASGAS Mini range is led by the MC 50, MC 65 and MC 85 two-strokes, as well as the all-electric MC-E5.
2021 GasGas EC 350F
Enduro enthusiasts have the EC 250, EC 300, EC 250F or EC 350F to choose from while Trials aficionados will look to the TXT range.
2020 GasGas TXT GP 300
GASGAS Motorcycles Australian dealers will also carry of the full range of GASGAS Technical Accessories and Apparel.
All new model year 2021 GASGAS offroad models will be arriving at authorised Austrlaian GASGAS Motorcycles dealership in early January.
GasGas revealed their Enduro range for 2021 overnight and the machines are priced more competitively than their Husqvarna and KTM siblings.
2021 GasGas EC 250 and EC 250F (pictured) are priced at $12,940 +ORC. A considerable saving over their KTM/Husky siblings.
Comparing the 300 cc two-strokes between the three brands sees GasGas undercut the comparable KTM by $1115 and the TE300 Husqvarna by a hefty $1720. The lowest entry point is the 250 two-stroke at $12,940, undercutting the KTM 250 EXC by $915 and the TE250 Husqvarna by $1520.
2021 GasGas EC 300 is $14,155 +ORC
On the four-stroke side of the ledger GasGas only offers 250 and 350 cc models, the bigger 450 and 500 models are only offered by KTM and Husky. The 250 four-stroke Gas Gas undercuts the KTM 250 EXC-F by $915 and the FE250 Husqvarna by $1520. The pricing disparity grows in the 350 with the GasGas $1115 cheaper than the KTM 350 EXC-F and $1720 cheaper than the FE350 Husqvarna.
2021 GasGas EC 250F
Like the other brands in the stable the Enduro machines will be available with full registration which generally adds around $1300 to the price for stamp duty and licencing.
GasGas is using Braktec braking and hydraulic clutch set-ups. This is a European brand also knows as J.Juan that is now firmly established as an OEM supplier of performance braking systems and they are widely used on the Moto2 grid. Husqvarna use Magura while KTM use Brembo.
2021 GasGas EC 300
GasGas appear to be using identical WP suspension as Husqvarna with the XPLOR 48 fork and XACT shock working via linkage although of course due to KTM using PDS rear suspension the shock on the orange bikes is different.
The GasGas Enduro machines do appear to miss out on the traction control and selectable mapping that is offered on the KTM and Husqvarna range.
2021 GasGas EC 300
A new Australian dealership network is to be announced in the coming weeks and the 2021 Enduro range is due to go on sale in Australia this December. Gas Gas will also offer a 125 cc two-stroke machine in their Motocross line-up along with two four-stroke MX models, the MC 250F and MC 450F. A range of Mini motocrossers will also be available with the battery powered MC-E5 offered alongside the two-stroke MC50, MC 65 and MC 85.
2021 GasGas Two-Stroke Enduro Price List
2021 GasGas EC 250 – $12,940
2021 GasGas EC 300 – $14,155
2021 GasGas Four-Stroke Enduro Price List
2021 GasGas EC 250F – $12,940
2021 GasGas EC 350F – $13,750
It now seems clear where the group is aiming to take GasGas after it took ownership of the Spanish brand late last year. In the 2021 model release documentation is the following statement, “We consider GasGas to be the enabler brand within the group, allowing more riders to easily access the fun of riding offroad. With products that are inviting and inclusive, we want everyone to get in on the action!”
2021 GasGas EC 350F – The DOHC 350cc motor shares much of its architecture with the EC 250F engine but provides a significant increase in power and torque. It tips the scales at just 28kg.
They then expand further by announcing the following four ‘Brand Values’.
GasGas Brand Values
DARING
BEHAVIOR: The courage and enthusiasm to face whatever comes your way
VIBRANT
STYLE: Distinct, loud, unmistakeable, and energetic – it is bursting with energy and excitement
CAPABLE
GROUP ROLE: Many years of proven high-performance expertise, harnessed for your enjoyment
INVITING
PACKAGE: High-performance that’s packaged to allow more riders to join in on the action
2021 GasGas EC 350F
2021 GasGas Enduro
2021 GasGas EC 300 – Frames of all GasGas Enduro models are made from laser-cut chromium molybdenum steel that is robot welded.
FRAME AND SUBFRAME
All GasGas Enduro frames are built using lightweight, laser-cut chromium molybdenum steel, which is robot welded for complete accuracy and strength and incorporates specifically engineered flex, proven geometry, and playful handling. GasGas frames are finished in a durable, red powder coating.
SWINGARM
The hollow cast aluminum swingarms fitted to all GasGas Enduro bikes provide exceptional strength at the lowest possible weight.
2021 GasGas EC 350F
FORGED TRIPLE CLAMPS
22 mm offset forged triple clamps offer three-way handlebar adjustment, which ensures riders of all sizes can accurately set the handlebars to best suit their needs.
WP XPLOR FRONT FORKS
WP XPLOR USD 48 mm forks feature a split fork design with compression damping on the left and rebound on the right. They also provide progressive damping and simple and fast clicker adjustments with a calibrated mid-valve piston.
WP XACT REAR SHOCK
Matched to the linkage system fitted to all GasGas Enduro bikes, the WP XACT rear shock delivers 300 mm of rear wheel travel. Full rebound and high/low-speed compression adjustability.
2021 GasGas EC 350F
2021 GasGas Enduro Features and Benefits
AIRBOX AND TOOL-LESS AIR FILTER ACCESS
A straightforward no-tools-needed filter mounting system features on all GasGas Enduro bikes. Air filter removal and changing takes only minutes. Designed with precisely positioned inlet ducts that ensure maximum airflow and protection of the Twin Air filter.
BRAKTEC BRAKES
GasGas uses Braktec braking systems on all Enduro bikes. The front brake features an 11 mm piston within the master cylinder and 2×25 mm pistons in the caliper, together with a waved 260 mm front disc. The rear brake has a 12.7 mm master cylinder piston and a 1×25 mm piston caliper and uses a 220 mm rear brake disc. Braktec is also known as J Juan which is a European brake manufacturer that has established itself very well as an OEM supplier and is widely used on the Moto2 race grid.
2021 GasGas EC 300 – Two-stroke models feature an electronic oil pump that feeds two-stroke oil into the motor, keeping it lubricated via the throttle body. Using engine speed and throttle position sensor data, the engine management’s precise electronic control of the oil pump ensures the perfect amount of oil for any given conditions, reducing exhaust smoke by up to 50 per cent compared with conventional pre-mix lubrication. The advanced lubrication system maintains an average fuel-to-oil ratio of 80:1, which means one tank full of oil is enough for at least five tanks of fuel.
NEKEN HANDLEBAR, GRIPS AND THROTTLE ASSEMBLY
Neken tapered handlebars on all GasGas Enduro bikes. With a left side ODI grip that doesn’t require gluing, on the throttle side there is a vulcanized grip that features an innovative integrated throttle mechanism. With easy to adjust free- play, by changing a cam the progression of the throttle can also be altered.
FUEL TANK
All GasGas Enduro bikes feature 8.5-litre fuel tanks made from transparent polythene that allows riders to easily see how much fuel is inside the tank, a bayonet style filler cap provides a tight, reliable seal. With a specific routing keeping the external fuel line safe, all bikes are fitted with a fuel level sensor.
2021 GasGas EC 300 – The EC 300 cylinder is super-efficient and features two inlet positions on the transfer ports at the rear of the cylinder. Here, two fuel injectors deliver fuel downwards into the transfer port guaranteeing perfect atomization before the air then travels upward to the combustion chamber. This reduces fuel consumption and emissions. The 72mm cylinder also features a Twin-Valve Controlled (TVC) power valve system, which delivers smooth and controlled power throughout the RPM range. Optimal exhaust port timing is achieved with the combination of the state-of-the-art, adjustable power valve drive and a machined exhaust port window.
BRAKTEC HYDRAULIC CLUTCH
The EC model range has a super light clutch action with a Damped Diaphragm Steel (DDS) clutch and Braktec hydraulic system to create a clutch that has a light and consistent action and is almost maintenance free. With a single diaphragm spring instead of the more common coil spring, the design also incorporates a damping system, which increases both traction and durability. These bikes are also fitted with a Braktec hydraulic clutch system that provides even wear, near maintenance-free operation and perfect action in all conditions. It’s also extremely light. Free play is constantly adjusted to ensure a biting point and action that never changes.
WHEELS AND TYRES
CNC machined hubs use lightweight spokes and silver anodized aluminum nipples. Maxxis Maxx Enduro medium tyres are fitted.
2021 GasGas EC 300 engine – A heavier ignition rotor in the EC 300 compared to the MX models produces more inertia for a smooth, Enduro specific power delivery. The crankshaft, which has a 72mm stroke, is balanced in conjunction with the counter balancer shaft for minimum motor vibrations.
BODYWORK
Red plastics reflect the Spanish personality of GasGas while straightforward graphics proudly say GasGas! An ergonomically designed flat seat profile combines with a high grip seat cover.
TRANSMISSION
GasGas use a forged 6-speed Pankl Racing Systems transmission across the EC Enduro range. An innovative shift lever reduces dirt build up for easy operation in all conditions.
ENGINE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (EMS)
Four-strokes use the Keihin EMS system controls everything to do with the electronic fuel injection system as well as featuring a gear sensor, that tailors power delivery for each gear. On two-strokes the EMS features an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) that is responsible for a number of functions.
2021 GasGas EC 250F engine – The EC 250F motor is designed to house the motor’s internal shaft arrangements at the ideal center of gravity to improve overall handling. The casings, manufactured using a high-pressure die-cast production process, integrate the oil supply to the main bearing and ensure minimal weight while retaining exceptional reliability and strength.
ELECTRIC START, LI-ION BATTERY AND WIRING HARNESS
An electric starter is fitted to all Enduro bikes powered by a Li-Ion battery.
INTEGRATED COOLING SYSTEM AND RADIATORS
All GasGas Enduro bikes feature an integrated cooling system with slim radiators for class-leading ergonomics.
EXHAUST SYSTEM
Exhausts are designed and built to meet FIM sound regulations. Two-stroke header pipes are super strong and offer optimal geometry, performance and ground clearance, making them less susceptible to damage. The two-stroke mufflers also feature an advanced internal construction for excellent noise damping and weight saving.
The four-stroke exhaust systems are expertly designed to deliver the very best performance at the lowest possible weight while a joining position allows it to be removed without having to take out the rear shock. Further innovation allows for a short, compact silencer that doesn’t increase noise levels. The muffler shell is crafted from lightweight aluminum.
THROTTLE BODY
GasGas use two different sized throttle bodies on their Enduro bikes – a 42 mm Keihin unit four-strokes and a 39mm Dell’Orto throttle body on two-strokes. On the EC 250F and EC 350F immediate throttle response is provided due to the throttle cable being mounted directly, without a throttle linkage and the injector is positioned to ensure the most efficient flow into the combustion chamber. Things are a little more involved on the two-stroke bikes, where a Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) relays airflow data to the ECU, which in turn calculates the amount of oil and fuel delivered to the engine.
Despite KTM Group’s boss saying sales were up during the pandemic, the Austrian company has suffered a one-third sales slump as it offers two rare RC16 race bikes for sale.
In the first six months of 2020, sales of KTM Group motorcycles, which also includes Husqvarna and Gas Gas, were down 33% from 135,711 to 90,331.
This is despite several reports that CEO Stefan Pierer said they were not affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and had hired more people.
Meanwhile, KTM Motorsports is selling two race-prepared KTM RC16 factory MotoGP bikes from last year’s season.
This is a very rare opportunity.
The only other time we can recall MotoGP bikes being sold was in 2012 when Ducati sold Casey Stoner’s 800cc Desmosedici for about $A455,000 and Valentino Rossi’s bike for $A444,000.
They were sold because the series moved from 800cc to 1 000ccc.
The unspecified 2019 KTM race bikes will come with a Pol Espargaro’s racing leathers and helmet, other merchandise and a VIP MotoGP hospitality weekend in 2021.
KTM is asking about $A475,000 each for the bikes.
If you’ve got that sort of money after raiding your superannuation, send an email to [email protected].
KTM will compile a list of buyers and make a final decision on the lucky buyers.
With the restart of the 2020 FIM Motocross World Championship just a few weeks away, GasGas Factory Racing’s official MXGP and MX2 riders are busy completing their preparations ahead of a return to MXGP competition, armed with the new GasGas MC 450F and MC 250F factory machines.
Since GasGas is now part of the larger KTM/Husqvarna/WP corporations these machines obviously inherit a lot of that Austrian technology as the company forges a new way forward under the stewardship of Stefan Pierer.
In the MXGP category Glenn Coldenhoff and Ivo Monticelli will race GasGas
Robert Jonas, VP Motorsports Offroad
“This is another milestone for GasGas Motorcycles. Knowing that Glenn, Ivo, Jeremy and Simon will be heading back into MXGP and MX2 competition on the new GasGas MC 450F and MC 250F factory machines is a proud and important moment for all involved. Following GasGas’ return to top-flight motocross earlier this year, introducing these new bikes was a key next step for us. Knowing just how much both Standing Construct GasGas Factory Racing and DIGA Procross GasGas Factory Juniors are looking forward to getting back to racing, for them to be able to complete their final weeks of preparations and then head into what will be a busy few months of MXGP racing with their new GasGas Factory Racing machines is really exciting. We’re really looking forward to seeing these new bikes out on track and to all of our riders continuing their 2020 MXGP and MX2 seasons.”
GasGasMC 450F
With more than four months having passed since round two of the 2020 FIM Motocross World Championship, GasGas Factory Racing’s official teams – Standing Construct GasGas Factory Racing and DIGA Procross GasGas Factory Juniors – are prepared for the much-anticipated and imminent restart of the MXGP series. Heading first to the Dutch International races being held at the Arnhem circuit, team riders Glenn Coldenhoff, Ivo Monticelli, Jeremy Sydow and Simon Längenfelder will all compete on the new GasGasMC 450F and MC 250F factory machines.
GasGasMC 450F
Glenn Coldenhoff
“This new bike is something I’ve really been looking forward to. It looks great and it’s really cool that we will return to racing with a new bike. Obviously, the last few months haven’t been like everyone expected but this is a special moment for us all. I’m feeling really good and my feeling with the new bike is great. I just want to get behind the gate again now and start racing.”
Glenn Coldenhoff
In the MXGP category both Glenn Coldenhoff and Ivo Monticelli are well prepared for their return to the highly competitive class. With Monticelli looking to put a frustrating start to his 2020 season behind him, Coldenhoff will resume his quest for a place inside the championship’s top five.
For MX2 class riders Jeremy Sydow and Simon Längenfelder, the upcoming MXGP of Latvia will not only allow the young duo to return to world championship competition on the new MC 250F but also to continue the impressive run of form they each displayed during the opening two GPs. The new GasGas MC 450F and MC 250F will take to the track for the first time on July 26 at the Dutch International event being held at the Arnhem circuit.
Simon Längenfelder
“This new bike just makes everything better for me. Riding it feels so good, I can’t wait to be back racing again. Over the next few weeks I will continue working hard, so I am in the best shape to compete on my new GasGas.”
Following the recent launch of the 2020 GasGas TXT Racing line-up after the acquisition of the Spanish brand by the KTM Group, GasGas has now released their flagship factory edition trials machines, the TXT GP range.
Australia will receive the top of the range GasGas TXT GP 300.
A limited number of the 550 top tier machines produced will be coming to Australia and are due to arrive by September of this year as the new Australian dealer network takes shape for the GasGas brand.
Using the experience and know-how earned from 15 successful FIM Trial World Championship campaigns, each GasGas TXT GP model is designed and built to deliver uncompromised performance when used on the most challenging terrain.
Australia will receive the top of the range GasGas TXT GP 300.
Providing riders with everything they need to perform at the very highest level, all TXT GP models feature parts used on the official GasGas Factory Racing machine of Jorge Casales.
In some markets the TXT GP models are available in four capacities, 125, 250, 280 and 300 but Australia will only receive the top of the range TXT GP 300.
2020 GasGas TXT GP
Fitted with premium suspension components, a carbon-fibre airbox, factory racing graphics and many other technical highlights, GasGas TXT GP models allow riders to excel no matter how difficult the competition.
All parts featured on TXT GP machines will be available for purchase from official GasGas Motorcycles dealers, for use on all TXT Racing models.
After their recent tie-up in the Pierer (KTM / Husqvarna) fold, Spanish manufacturer GasGas will make a historic inaugural step into MXGP courtesy of an alliance with the Standing Construct squad, expand their presence and competitiveness in Rally thanks to linking up with high profile record-setter Laia Sanz, and host the multi-title winning talents of Taddy Blazusiak in the arenas of Enduro and Extreme Enduro.
It is unclear from this initial release whether some, or all, of the machines to be raced across these disciplines will be just re-badged mounts from the KTM/Husqvarna stable, or whether they will be improved versions of existing Spanish made GasGas product.
‘Standing Construct GasGas Factory Racing’ is the very first works Motocross Grand Prix team for the marque and boasts the exciting combination of Glenn Coldenhoff and Ivo Monticelli on MXGP machinery in 2020.
Standing Construct GasGas Factory Racing
Glenn Coldenhoff
“My team manager called me and told me about the opportunity for us to ride with GasGas and right away I was really honored. To reach the status of a factory team is a reward for all their hard work and professionalism. It is a really big step for the team; to have a factory behind you with all their support and resources. I am really looking forward to continue working with this great group of people at Standing Construct, and I am super-honored and motivated to represent this new brand in the MXGP class.”
Glenn Coldenhoff at the 2019 Motocross of Nations (MXoN)
Coldenhoff secured 3rd position in the 2019 MXGP standings and has owned his class in the last two editions of the FIM Motocross of Nations. Monticelli impressed in his second term in the premier division in 2019 to fill 11th spot in the championship.
GasGas in World Rally
Laia Sanz, a serial FIM Women’s trial world champion and now almost ten years as an Enduro and Rally record-breaker (Female category winner and highest ranked female finisher at the Dakar Rally with a personal best of 9th overall in 2015), will lead the charge for the revitalised GasGas effort in Rally. The soon-to-be 34 year old will disembark to the middle east in a matter of weeks for the 42nd Dakar Rally beginning on January 5th.
Laia Sanz
Laia Sanz
“When the announcement was made about GasGas’ future, things happened very fast and so we had the challenge to prepare very quickly for Dakar 2020. We are in a positive way; the bike looks great and we are in full preparation for the race in January. The other interesting thing with GasGas is the opportunities it might present me for the future – GasGas is known as a trials bike brand and this is also close to my heart and roots. The page turns for the brand from now, and my goal is to do the best job possible whilst bringing my passion and expertise to the company as we start on a new journey together.”
Laia Sanz
GasGas in WSS Enduro World Championship
It is hard to find a bigger name in the world of Enduro than Taddy Blazusiak and the decorated 36-year-old Pole will be the vanguard for the GasGas name in the 2020 WESS Enduro World Championship.
Taddy Blazusiak
“I’m stoked to be part of this new adventure. I’d been with KTM forever and they are well known for their work and their competitiveness, so this is a fresh direction for me and it’s a privilege to be the first rider of the new GasGas era. I cannot wait to start working and racing with the new GasGas factory team.”
Taddy Blazusiak at Romaniacs on a KTM in 2019
Robert Jonas, VP Motorsports Offroad
“GasGas is another fascinating story for our motorsport department. It is a strong and very recognizable brand, so it’s exciting to see how we can take it into new racing series. When we decided to move GasGas into MXGP for the first time there wasn’t a better choice than Standing Construct. Tim and his crew bring passion and knowledge to their jobs and that has been really easy to see, especially in 2019. Laia has some history with GasGas in Rally and was the natural fit to push the name back to the front at the Dakar. She’ll be an ideal ambassador both on and off the bike. It’s fantastic for us to have a rider of Taddy’s profile and professionalism when it comes to the first steps of the Enduro program. Overall, I would say we have pushed hard to make a competitive statement for GasGas and the next phase of their participation in the racing world; moving forward we’re fully focused for track success on a global scale.”
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KTM takes over Gas Gas
Brad Freeman ties up EnduroGP title in France Saturday Report
Saturday of the last weekend of EnduroGP competition in 2019 saw the tests of the GP of France challenge many of the riders, however quadruple World Champion Steve Holcombe got the job done and won the E3 category and with this new success, now boasts an impressive five titles in his young career.
Brad Freeman – Image by EnduroGP
Brad Freeman continued his momentum, the 2019 E1 World Champion offered up a repeat performance of the incredible pace he had in the Czech Republic. Highly focused and dominating the day, the Beta Boano rider finished as the best performer of the day by winning five tests.
Danny McCanney once again makes it an all British podium by accompanying the Beta pair on the podium. The TM rider won four tests today, a impressive feat against the likes of Freeman and Holcombe, as well as a charged up French contingent.
The first non-Brit is France’s Loïc Larrieu who, in front of his supporters, had a great day during which he won two tests. Alex Salvini put in a lot of effort and finished in the Top 5. The Italian suffered in the extremely demanding transfers of the Livradois lap.
Loïc Larrieu
In E1, there was no change as McCanney signed off on a new success in the class. He was ahead of a surprising Andrea Verona and another Italian joins them on the podium, Thomas Oldrati.
The fight in the E2 category was superb all day. It was Loïc Larrieu who snatched the victory at the expense of Alex Salvini. The two men fought blow for blow. But Larrieu, probably boosted by the many French fans, found the strength to win and separate himself and Salvini by just one point.
Alex Salvini
Steve Holcombe did it, taking a new world title in the E3 category! His fifth in four years of Senior competitions. The Brit knew he could ‘save’ his very tough season with this success and have a reason to smile. Very emotional when he arrived back into the paddock, Holcombe dedicated his latest title to his team and all his relatives. Joining Holcombe on the podium were his season long rival, Danny McCanney and France’s ever-improving David Abgrall.
Steve Holcombe
“It’s amazing to win another world title. This is certainly a memorable one. It’s been a challenging season for me, so to finally collect the Enduro 3 World Championship is a huge relief. From dominating the opening round to coming extremely close to having the Epstein Bar Virus put an end to my season mid-way through the series, honestly, it’s been such a strange year. My goal was to defend my EnduroGP title, which I still have a mathematical chance of doing, but winning another Enduro 3 title after everything that’s happened is something I’m incredibly proud of. I have to say a huge thanks to my team, all my sponsors, my family and everyone who’s worked with me this season, helping me battle through some difficult moments. World title number five certainly wasn’t an easy one to win but it’s a special one.”
Steve Holcombe – Image by Future7Media
In the Junior category, Wil Ruprecht won despite the Epstein Barr virus that continues to wreak havoc with his health. The Australian has drawn on all his resources to get this second win in 2019.
It’s a great reward for him and Joakim Johansson’s team. Theo Espinasse was just over a second and a half behind the Australian, having provided a spectacular race as usual. The young Brit Dan Mundell accompanied these two on the podium, bringing more silverware to Sherco Factory.
The Junior 1 podium was identical to that of Junior Overall, with Ruprecht leading Espinasse and Mundell. In J2, Ruy Barbosa won ahead of Till De Clerco and Emanuele Facchetti. But a nod goes to Enric Francisco who, despite a big crash which left him battered and bruised, won the World J2 title, triggering euphoric celebrations for his team and manager, Ivan Cervantes.
Hamish Macdonald made a whole nation proud by becoming the first World Enduro Champion from New Zealand. The Sherco rider won the title after a very complicated season after Macdonald broke his collarbone in Spain. He pushed hard to recover and return to the top of the category. This title augurs really well for the Kiwi, who hasn’t yet realised the full extent of his success.
Hamish Macdonald
“I can not find the words, this title is just incredible! The season was very tricky when I broke my collarbone, and my rivals have pushed. All I can say is thank you to my team and my family, but also to the Edmondson family for welcoming me and taking care of me away from home all year. I still haven’t taken in what’s happening, but I can promise you that we’re going to celebrate tonight!”
On the first day of action, home favourite Nathan Bererd won in front of Sergio Navarro by less than a second! Macdonald climbed onto the final step of the podium in the Youth category.
The Enduro Woman Cup is back! For the second consecutive year, the best girls on the planet come to battle to win the Women’s World Cup at the final round of the season. And defending champion Sanna Karkkainen has a lot of work to do if she wants to retain her crown.
Jane Daniels surged to success by winning on Saturday. The Brit is ahead of Karkkainen and the Spanish rider Mireia Badia. Daniels is extremely motivated after the big disappointment she suffered in 2018, when she had to give up her title hopes after breaking her collarbone early in the weekend. Jane left no chances to her rivals, winning five out of the six tests.
The riders in the Champion Lubricants Enduro Open World Cup also fought it out on the tough terrain, chasing the best riders in the world. In Open 2-Stroke, after his absence in the Czech Republic, Gonçalo Reis has come back with a win. He won in front of Benet Gomez and a quick Jack Cadwallader.
In Open 4-Stroke, Belgium’s Mathias Van Hoof had announced he was hoping to take the top step on French soil – and he managed it! He took victory over Robert Riedel and Dylan Levesque. In the absence of the giant from the Isle of Man, David Knight, it was Andrea Belotti turn to win. The Italian had this first win of the year in Open Senior ahead of Enrique Gonzalez Vega and Patrik Andersson.
2019 EnduroGP of France – E3 Podium Saturday
2019 EnduroGP of France – Saturday Overall
Brad FREEMAN United Kingdom 1:08:22.13
Steve HOLCOMBE United Kingdom +19.86
Daniel MCCANNEY United Kingdom +23.01
Loïc LARRIEU France +36.69
Alex SALVINI Italy +1:06.89
Thomas OLDRATI Italy +1:18.78
Giacomo REDONDI Italy +1:34.81
Matteo CAVALLO Italy +1:37.44
Joseph WOOTTON United Kingdom +1:39.40
Antoine BASSET France +1:48.12
Benjamin HERRERA Chile +2:05.48
David ABGRALL France +2:11.83
Antoine MEO France +2:17.26
Christophe CHARLIER France +2:24.00
Kirian MIRABET Spain +2:49.10
Weekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop
Sunday Report
In an incredible end to the 2019 EnduroGP season, Sunday saw the supreme title of EnduroGP – overall Champion – still to be decided, with Brad Freeman giving it his all. And at the tender age of 23 he has taken the first EnduroGP title of his career. This incredible day in the sport also saw the world E2 crown awarded, as well as the Women’s World Cup.
Thomas Oldrati
Brad Freeman continued to fly the Union Jack high. He is also the first rider to end Steve Holcombe’s reign. The Beta Boano rider broke his collarbone at the GP of Greece and had to ride in searing in pain to conquer the title. In addition to his E1 crowns in 2018 and 2019, and his Junior crown in 2017, Freeman now adds a fourth star to his list. All this bodes well for the future of the incredibly talented young rider.
Brad Freeman
“That’s it! We did it! I do not have a lot of words to describe what I’m feeling. This season was so complicated and tough, I can tell you that it took a lot of will to fulfil this dream. I am EnduroGP World Champion and it feels great!”
Brad Freeman
And what a performance from Loïc Larrieu today! Encouraged and boosted by the French fans, he attacked all day on Sunday, winning no fewer than six tests. The TM rider intelligently built up his lead and kept an eye on his opponent’s pace, upping his pace only when needed. Larrieu took his first world title, in E2, on home soil – what better way to do it?
Larrieu also owes his performance to an exceptional Alex Salvini, who pushed him to his absolute limits. The Italian made very few mistakes, and finished second overall in a Grand Prix that could easily have turned in his favour.
Loic Larrieu
“To win this title in front of the French public is something really special. This title represents a lot for me. I want to thank the entire TM Racing team, my entourage and my partners. It’s a great reward after a year that was difficult with a new constructor and little preparation. It’s just perfect, it’s my year.”
Loïc Larrieu
Steve Holcombe also fought gallantly all day. Freshly crowned in the E3 class, Steve promised to throw everything into the ring to try and beat Freeman, but this year it simply wasn’t enough. He finished third in this last GP of a difficult season.
Brad Freeman was fourth overall, doing ‘just enough’. Meanwhile, 2018 Junior World Champion Matteo Cavallo impressed everyone in his first Senior season, taking another Top 5 spot overall.
Loïc Larrieu
The E2 class was extremely exciting on this second day of racing in France. Loïc Larrieu became World Champion for the first time in his career, and in impressive fashion. Mastering the French terrain, he admitted he had to push all day. Alex Salvini was a fantastic rival for Larrieu , he always gives his all and fights with aggression and finesse. But the Italian once again had to swallow the heartbreak of losing out on the last day of the year. Behind this pair on the E2 podium was an ever-improving Joe Wootton.
Alex Salvini
“I got beaten again at the last race of the year, but this time it was nothing like what happened in 2018. This year the fight was really beautiful with Loic, and even though I am very disappointed not to be champion, I realised what I am capable of. This year was tough but I am happy to have managed to run my own team – we will come back even stronger.”
Alex Salvini
In E1, Freeman won at the expense of Cavallo and Davide Guarneri. Meanwhile, Steve Holcombe won the last E3 race of the year in front of his super-consistent compatriot, Danny McCanney and the legendary champion Christophe Nambotin, who has just taken part in his last GP.
Theo Espinasse ended his 2019 season like a cannonball. The Sherco rider pocketed another win following his success in Uhlirske Janovice two weeks ago. He took Sunday’s victory ahead of Ruy Barbosa and a quick Dan Mundell. Espinasse also won the J1 class in front of Mundell and Antoine Magain. While J2 went to Barbosa, in front of wildcard Jed Etchells and Léo Le Quere.
In Youth 125, Sergio Navarro won in the last round against Nathan Bererd by a second and a half. 2019 EY Champion Hamish Macdonald closed out the podium positions.
Shy and quiet off the bike, Britain’s Jane Daniels is absolutely ferocious on the tests. After a flawless weekend, she wins the Enduro Women’s World Cup. As modest as talented, Daniels was finally able to claim a title that has eluded her in the past due to misfortune or bad luck. In 2019, she proved she is the fastest woman in the world on an enduro machine. 2018 champion Sanna Karkkainen didn’t have an answer for Daniels this weekend. Third on this world podium was Spain’s Mireia Badia.
Jane Daniels
“At last I have won this title that I have been waiting for so long! I am really happy and I am very proud to bring this trophy home with me!”
In the Champion Lubricants Enduro Open World Cup, the 2019 season has been a great success. The category gave a chance for a large number of riders who dreamed of rubbing shoulders with the best in the world, on the same course! It is mission accomplished for the first year of the Open Cup!
For this last round of the season in Open 4-Stroke we saw the same winner as Saturday – Belgium’s Mathias Van Hoof on his Beta. He took victory ahead of Robert Riedel and Dylan Levesque. In the Open 2-Stroke Gonçalo Reis concluded a brilliant season with another win. He was accompanied on the final podium of the year by Gomez Benet and Jorge Paradelo Rodriguez. In the Senior category, Andrea Belotti doubled up and won for the second time this weekend. The same duo as Saturday; Enrique Gonzalez Vega and Patrik Andersson accompanied him on the podium.
2019 EnduroGP of France – E3 Podium Sunday
The Grand Prix of France brilliantly concluded an EnduroGP season that was in every respect remarkable. Given the level of competition, excitement, and unpredictability shown this year, all eyes are already on 2020!
2019 EnduroGP of France – Sunday Overall
Loïc LARRIEU France 1:05:47.21
Alex SALVINI Italy +8.07
Steve HOLCOMBE United Kingdom +22.33
Brad FREEMAN United Kingdom +28.58
Matteo CAVALLO Italy +42.42
Daniel MCCANNEY United Kingdom +49.69
Joseph WOOTTON United Kingdom +57.36
Antoine BASSET France +1:48.98
Davide GUARNERI Italy +1:57.15
Benjamin HERRERA Chile +2:04.72
Christophe NAMBOTIN France +2:13.23
Christophe CHARLIER France +2:21.31
Hugo BLANJOUE France +2:21.43
Thomas OLDRATI Italy +2:23.34
David ABGRALL France +2:30.89
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Hamish Macdonald claims first Kiwi Endurance World Title
Canterbury’s Hamish MacDonald has become the first New Zealand rider to win a World Enduro Championship. Originally from West Melton, MacDonald (20) was crowned the FIM 125cc Youth Enduro World Champion at the final round in Ambert, France over the weekend.
The victory was made even sweeter, after a tough season where the Sherco rider broke both the scapula bone in his shoulder and his clavicle, at May’s third round in Spain. He fought back hard to recover and return to the top of the category.
Hamish Macdonald
“I cannot find the words, this title is just incredible! The season was very tricky when I broke my collarbone, and my rivals have pushed. All I can say is thank you to my team and my family, but also to the Edmondson family for welcoming me and taking care of me away from home all year. I still haven’t taken in what’s happening, but I can promise you that we’re going to celebrate tonight!”
Hamish Macdonald – Image by Mastorgne Photography and Dario Agrati
He joined the Enduro GP last year after what had been a long time since a New Zealander took on the sport’s special tests. The last Kiwi to race in this series was Pahiatua’s Paul Whibley back in 2003. The tough enduro discipline is run on extended cross-country and off-road courses, featuring many different obstacles and challenges.
Already a multi-New Zealand Enduro Champion, MacDonald rides a Sherco with the support of Fabrizio Azzalin and his team Sherco CH Racing.
Motorcycling New Zealand’s General Manager Virginia Henderson says its been a golden few weeks for the country’s riders, with the sport producing two world champions within a month. Otago’s Courtney Duncan won the Women’s World Motocross Championship in September.
Australia goes one better at 2019 TdN in Ibiza
Team Australia arrived in Spain a week early this year ahead of the TdN assisting in their preparation for this year’s event. All riders (apart from Kristie McKinnon) riding in the final round of the FIM Trial GP before a week of training helping Australia to go into Ibiza strong with the added benefit of the terrain suiting our riders. The backdrop of this year’s TdN was spectacular, with sections right on the ocean across some concrete blocks along with a few other man-made sections.
Team Australia – 2019 Trials des Nations – Image by Pep Segales/FIM
2019 marks the 26th year that Team Australia have competed in the TdN men’s category and the 26th consecutive year, with Kyle Middleton having represented Australia 11-times, and joining Chris Bayles and Connor Hogan as a team for the fourth time.
Kristie McKinnon has also represented Australia 11-times, holding the record for Australian female trials riders, with Australia competing in the Women’s category for the 13th time in 2019, with McKinnon joined by Jenna Lupo and Lillie Yiatrou, who team up for the first time.
Kyle Middleton and Connor Hogan rode the qualification round for the men, finishing in an impressive fourth place, while Kristie McKinnon and Lillie Yiatrou rode for the Women qualifying in seventh.
Team Australia – 2019 Trials des Nations – Image by Pep Segales/FIM
After a hard day of riding, the men’s team of Kyle Middleton, Chris Bayles and Connor Hogan finished an impressive fifth place with a total of 18-points in the hotly-contested International Trophy after Germany took the win with a commanding victory over Sweden.
The women’s team of Kristie McKinnon, Lillie Yiatrou and Jenna Lupo scored 101-points to finish a place higher than 2018 in 7th with Spain taking the win ahead of Britain.
Kyle Middleton
“Our team was awesome, aside from probably two sections we were right there which leaves me wishing we could have had another shot at it. Also a special thanks for all the supporters and sponsors who helped get us here, including S3 Parts, GRO, Hebo and The Hell Team.”
With both teams happy with the improvements the focus is now on for the 2020 FIM Trial des Nation.
Team Australia – 2019 Trials des Nations – Image by Pep Segales/FIM
Repsol Honda Team rider Toni Bou once again led the Spanish team alongside compatriots Adam Raga and Jeroni Fajardo. Accruing a mere four penalty marks, the Spanish team dominated throughout the fifteen sections in Ibiza to clinch the 2019 Trial des Nations championship title. The victory represents a 26th national win, the 16th on the spin.
Toni Bou
“Today was an easy trial, where there was a lot of adherence in the sections, and we knew that we would have a tough job to make a difference. Finally, we rode a very intelligent trial – very good technically. We picked up two marks, both in section nine on each lap, where it was very easy to five. We cleaned the rest of the sections, so between the three of us we form a great team. Riding with them is always an honour. Congratulations to the organization for the trial.”
Toni Bou – 2019 Trials des Nations – Image by Pep Segales/FIM
2019 International Trophy Results
Germany – 1
Sweden – 7
United States – 8
Austria – 11
Australia – 18
Czech Republic – 19
Belgium – 30
Switzerland – 48
Ireland – 55
Andorra – 119
2019 Trial des Nations Championship
Spain – 4
Japan – 19
France – 24
Great Britain – 27
Italy – 45
Norway – 95
2019 Trial des Nations championship podium
2019 Women’s Trials Des Nations Result
Spain – 3
Great Britain – 10
Norway – 18
Germany – 22
United States – 26
France – 33
Australia – 101
Portugal – 147
Switzerland – 287
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2019 Australian Junior Dirt Track run at Somersby over weekend
Only two riders were able to win more than one championship class over two days of exciting racing at the 2019 Honda Australian Junior Dirt Track Championships at the Allen Park track at Somersby on the weekend. Thirteen classes produced 11 different winners, and a string of other place-getters who all helped confirm that the future of the sport is in good hands.
Albury Wodonga rider Archie McDonald won both of the classes for the 11 to Under 13 years classes which is currently the most ‘red-hot’ of all the age brackets.
The always highly competitive 13 to Under 16 years classes produced the other dual winner in Forbes rider Tom Drane who was denied a third win in the last of the weekend’s final. After finishing runner-up in three other classes Gold Coast rider Seth Qualischefski finally got the better of Drane to add a win to his medal haul.
Qualischefski was a tireless performer on the weekend being one of a few riders to contest four classes, which in total meant he rode 84 laps of racing. There were also three other Gold Coast riders who claimed a championship class win.
Ashleigh Adamson took out the Girls class beating Ava Faulkhead from Mildura and Molly Fairey from Cobar to produce a very geographically diverse rostrum. Sympathy goes to Anika Loftus though from Brisbane won the first three rounds before she was injured.
The other Gold Coast successes went to Rory McQualter who added two third placings to his win, and Viv Muddle who placed third as he strived to make it a double.
Two other class winners also added to their medal haul with Cowra rider Noah Grabham adding two seconds to his win, while Kempsey’s Jayden Holder scored one third place.
Tom Drane will have to start making room for his brother Sam to build his trophy collection as Sam won his first ever Australian Championship.
The host club boasted one championship class winner in Lachlan Russell, a feat matched by the Kurri Kurri Junior Club thanks to a win by Thomas Bullen.
With such a classy line-up of talent assembled even qualifying for the finals in some classes was no easy feat, with some of the minor place-getters still left pleased with their efforts, including a number who gained their best ever results.
Special mention must be made of Kurri Kurri rider Cameron Dunker and Albury Wodonga rider Remmie Fyffe who were both dual place getters.
Riders travelled from as far afield as Townsville in the north, Cobar and Mildura in the west and Melbourne in the south with the much-travelled families praising the host club for its staging of the meeting.
2019 Australian Junior Dirt TrackWeekly Moto News Wrap proudly brought to you by Dunlop
The second Annual Mason-Dixon GNCC concluded round 11 of the 2019 AMSOIL Grand National Cross Country (GNCC) Series on Sunday, where dry, dusty and higher temperatures greeted the afternoon race, making it a rough course for many of the competitors.
Thad Duvall would manage to make it through the gruelling three-hour race, crossing the finish line 39 seconds ahead of the competition. With track conditions proving difficult for many other riders, Duvall and his team put in their best effort to keep pushing until the checkered flag came out. Duvall earned his fourth overall win of the season, and his second straight win at the Mason-Dixon GNCC in Pennsylvania.
Thad Duvall – 2019 Mason-Dixon GNCC – Image by Ken Hill
Coming through second for the second race in a row was Ricky Russell. Throughout the day Russell would find himself battling it out with several different XC1 Open Pro riders, but he would manage to hold onto the second place position as the white flag came out indicating one more lap to go. Russell currently sits sixth in the points standings with two rounds remaining in the season.
With Kelley moving out of the XC2 250 Pro class, it was Liam Draper coming away with his first-ever XC2 class win. Drapers’ consistency paid off after starting out second in the class and making the move to first once when the two-lap card came out and then again on the last lap. Craig Delong came through second after battling his way to the front of the class ahead of Evan Smith.
Liam Draper – 2019 Mason-Dixon GNCC – Image by Ken Hill
The FMF XC3 125cc Pro-Am class had a lot of changes of lead throughout the duration of the race. However, it would be Jake Froman coming out to earn his first-ever win. Jesse Ansley, who currently leads the class points, held the lead after grabbing the holeshot. Ansley would fight back for a second place finish with Chase Colville also battling back to round out the podium. Colville would hold the lead at one point in the race, but would suffer bike issues causing a long pit stop, to still fight back to third in the class.
Simon Johnson took home the top amateur honors with his 250 A class win and a 14th overall. Brody Johnson came through 15th overall and earned second in the 250 A class along with the amateur podium. Tristan Landrum came through third in the 250 A class, and 17th overall claiming the final spot on the amateur podium.
When the 10 a.m. race kicked off Tayla Jones grabbied the early lead. However, Becca Sheets made her way to the front of the pack, to make the pass for the first place position. Sheets and Jones would battle back and forth and after trouble on an uphill during the last lap, Jones made the pass on Sheets and came through to take the win.
Tayla Jones – 2019 Mason-Dixon GNCC – Image by Ken Hill
Sheets finished second and Korie Steede battled forward to earn her place on the WXC podium for the first-time ever. Jones and Sheets made up the first two in the overall positions, but it would be Blayke Coler of the 125 B/C class working his way on adjusted time to the third overall position.
Tayla Jones
“Pumped to pull the holeshot on the weekend and brought home another GNCC Racing win. It was a tight race all day and with track conditions on the extremely dry side it made it really tough. Only two rounds to go for the season, ready to fight for it! Thank you to the @bauer651, the whole @rockstarhusky team and the Barnes’ for their help over the weekend and of course a huge shoutout to all of my awesome sponsors.”
As the 8 a.m. youth race took off it was Joseph Cunningham came through in the first place position, working towards earning the youth overall national championship. Nolette and Kuneff tried to apply the pressure up front, but would ultimately fall just short as Cunningham came through to the checkered flag first. Cunningham earned the Youth Overall National Championship, as Nolette took home second in the YXC1 Super Mini Sr. class and overall with Kuneff behind him in third.
Joseph Cunningham – 2019 Mason-Dixon GNCC – Image by Ken Hill
In the YXC2 Super Mini Jr. class it was Grant Davis coming through the pack to earn his ninth win of the season. Davis currently sits first in the points standings as the series heads into the last two rounds. Jack Joy came through to take second in the YXC2 class followed by Garyson Smith clinching third and the last spot on the class podium.
XC1 Pro Event Results
Thad Duvall (HQV)
Ricky Russell (YAM)
Trevor Bollinger (HQV)
Andrew Delong (HON)
Layne Michael (HQV)
Kailub Russell (KTM)
Josh Toth (KTM)
Benjamin Kelley (KTM)
Chris Venditti (KAW)
Takanori Nakajima (YAM)
Overall National Championship Standings
Kailub Russell (295)
Thad Duvall (258)
Steward Baylor Jr. (198)
Ben Kelley (166)
Trevor Bollinger (162)
Ricky Russell (123)
Andrew Delong (121)
Josh Strang (103)
Jordan Ashburn (113)
Josh Toth (107)
XC2 250 Pro Event Results
Liam Draper (KTM)
Craig Delong (HQV)
Evan Smith (HQV)
Austin Lee (HON)
Zach Hayes (KTM)
Ben Parsons (HQV)
Jesse Groemm (KTM)
Dylan Yearbury (YAM)
Samuel Evans (KTM)
XC2 250 Pro Series Standings
Benjamin Kelley (300)
Michael Witkowski (189)
Craig Delong (188)
Evan Smith (183)
Liam Draper (172)
Austin Lee (164)
Ryder Lafferty (145)
Jonathan Johnson (137)
Alex Teagarden (123)
Ben Parsons (113)
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Jared Mees tops AFT season finale
Jared Mees has topped AFT season finale in the Twins Main Event at the Meadowlands Mile, with Briar Bauman having already closed out the title in advance.
Jared Mees topped the AFT Twins podium – 2019 AFT – Meadowlands Mile – Image by Scott Hunter
In the AFT Singles Dalton Gauthier claimed the championship win with a very safe 14th place finish, while Mikey Rush topped proceedings, with Australian Max Whale in eighth and ninth in the overall standings.
The AFT Production Twins Corey Texter took the title, despite a mechanical issue regulating him to 14th, with chief rival Kolby Carlile a DNF.
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Netherlands claims MXoN win from Belgium and Great Britain
Team Netherands has taken the 2019 MXoN win, with Glenn Coldenhoff, Jeffrey Herlings and Calvin Vlaanderen proving unbeatable at Assen, with Team Belgium a distant second represented by Jeremy Van Horebeek, Kevin Strijbos and Jago Geerts, and Team Great Britain third with riders Shaun Simpson, Nathan Watson and Adam Sterry.
Jeffrey Herlings – Team Netherlands – 2019 MXoN – Image by Hoppenworld
After two thrilling days riding on the international stage for the first time at the Motocross of Nations, the 2019 YZ bLU cRU FIM Europe Cup came to an end on Sunday with the YZ125 race. YZ125 riders faced heavy rain and difficult conditions on Sunday at the TT Circuit Assen, contesting the last 2019 SuperFinale race after the YZ65 and YZ85 riders competed on Saturday.
2019 YZ125 bLU cRU SuperFinale
As the gate dropped practice leader Mairis Pumpurs took the holeshot to establish a very strong lead. Behind him Bobby Bruce also built on his practice pace to take second, battling with Spanish rider #252 Raul Sanchez behind. As the track got more challenging every rider put their head down over the 20-minute race.
With Pumpurs sitting unchallenged in first place he took the victory nearly a minute clear, followed home by Sanchez, who battled past Bruce, in second and third respectively to complete the podium at the weekend’s most difficult and entertaining bLUcRU SuperFinale race.
For Pumpurs, Sanchez and Bruce, the bLU cRU Masterclass awaits in November in Spain, where they will be joined by two YZ125 wildcards as they further develop their riding skills under expert tutorials and guidance. From the Masterclass, one of the five YZ125 riders will then win a place with the MJC Yamaha Official EMX125 team for the 2020 EMX125 Championship.
2019 YZ125 bLU cRU SuperFinale podium
2019 YZ125 bLU cRU SuperFinale Top 10
Pos
Rider
Nat.
Bike
Gap
1
Pumpurs, Mairis
LAT
Yamaha
00:00.0
2
Sanchez, Raul
ESP
Yamaha
00:57.9
3
Bruce, Bobby
GBR
Yamaha
01:10.3
4
Razzini, Pietro
ITA
Yamaha
01:22.1
5
de Beer, Ryan
NED
Yamaha
01:29.4
6
Modin, Arvid
SWE
Yamaha
01:41.9
7
de Lange, Sem
NED
Yamaha
01:48.6
8
Gimm, Daniel
ITA
Yamaha
02:12.3
9
Sagmalis, Antonis
GRE
Yamaha
02:33.6
10
Depoers, Simon
FRA
Yamaha
1 lap
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Cross-Countries Rally head to Rallye du Maroc
This Friday the 20th edition of the Rallye du Maroc is due to get underway, representing the fourth and final test of the FIM Cross-Country Rallies World Championship and the final competition ahead of the Dakar Rally.
Fez, one of Morocco’s imperial cities and the country’s cultural and religious centre, will host the forthcoming Rallye du Maroc, the fourth points-paying round of the FIM Cross-Country Rallies World Championship.
Toby Price won the Rallye du Maroc in 2018
Morocco has always been a land of rally raid. The story began in 1982 with the arrival of Paris-Agadir, the first rally raid to run in Morocco. The following year, the rally took the name of ‘Atlas Rally’ and became the flagship rally to the Rally Raids calendar. The Atlas Rally saw the best drivers and teams in the discipline run.
The Atlas Rally, after having changed hands from the company Larivièr et to ASO, disappeared at the end of the 90’s. It was then reborn in 2000 as ‘Rallye du Maroc’, under the leadership of Cyril Neveu and Jean Christophe Pelletier. The rally immediately became the major Moroccan rally and welcomed again the elite of rally raid.
In 2007, the company NPO, organiser of the Rallye du Maroc, was sold to Emma and Stéphane Clair and became an event in the FIM World Championship and the FIA World Cup. After 10 years at the head of the event, NPO sold the Rallye du Maroc to the company ODC, led by David Castera.
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Road racer Jessopp tries WESS at Hawkstone Park XC
As well as bringing together many of the world’s best Enduro racers, all looking to be crowned Ultimate Enduro World Champion, the World Enduro Super Series also attracts athletes at the pinnacle of other two-wheeled sports – competitors looking to dip a toe in the WESS waters. Round six of the series, the Hawkstone Park Cross-Country, saw stars of mountain biking and road racing out in force all keen to wrestle the gruelling Shropshire sands.
Martin Jessopp – Image by Future7Media
During the two days of racing, mountain bike star Josh Bryceland, former mountain bike racer Rob Warner and Isle of Man TT racer Martin Jessopp lined up against some of the world’s best Enduro riders.
Better known for his accomplishments in road racing, Martin Jessopp is a two-time TT podium finisher having lapped the infamous circuit at over 131mph, along with winning the North West 200 three times.
At the Hawkstone Park Cross-Country he showed his talents carry across to dirt too, finishing Saturday’s Sprint Enduro third in Clubman 2T, before securing sixth in Sunday’s Original Fast Eddy Cross-Country.
Martin Jessopp
“I’ve been trying to spend more time riding Enduro, but I didn’t expect to do so well. I didn’t make too many mistakes and tried to save energy where I could. It’s been awesome to race alongside the Pro riders – in a way it’s kind of role reversal for me, which I enjoyed. It’s incredible to see how fast they can ride these conditions and hold their corner speed between the trees. A highlight was when Graham Jarvis came past and I tried to stick with him for a couple of corners before he disappeared!”
Martin Jessopp – Image by Future7Media
World Enduro Super Series – 2019 Calendar
Round 7: BR2 Enduro Solsona (Spain) October 4-6
Round 8: GetzenRodeo (Germany) November 2
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2019 KTM AJMX Interstate Challenge Teams announced
Motorcycling Australia have announced the riders who have been chosen to represent each of their states at the KTM AJMX Nationals in Gillman, South Australia this week.
These riders form part of the selection that is required for the Interstate Challenge Cup. That format is each state is to choose a team of eight riders from four different classes to compete for this cup. Eight out of the 13 team members must be named to the Race Secretary of the event by the end of practice.
AJMX 2018
Each of those competitors is then scored within their own class. At the end of the event, the team with the highest point scoring six team members from each state will have their final placings re-scored for an overall score. The state with the highest overall team score is the winner.
New South Wales
2 Ky WOODS 65cc 10 – Under 12 Years
22 Connor TOWILL 85cc 2st/150cc 4st Std or BW 12 – Under 14 Years
20 Ben NOVAK 85cc 2st/150cc 4st Std or BW 14 – Under 16 Years
264 Hunter COLLINS 85cc 2st/150cc 4st Std or BW 14 – Under 16 Years
254 Jack DEVESON 85cc 2st/150cc 4st Std Wheel 9 – Under 12 Years
294 Koby HANTIS 85cc 2st/150cc 4st Std Wheel 9 – Under 12 Years
2 Taylor THOMPSON 100-150cc 2st/200-250cc 4st 13 – Under 16 Years Girls
25 Blake FOX 128-150cc 2st/200-250cc 4st 15 Years
Tasmania
756 Brodie FAULKNER 50cc Division 2 – 7 – Under 9 Years
7 Jay JENNINGS 65cc 7 – Under 10 Years
75 Cooper FORD 65cc 7 – Under 10 Years
759 Brydie HINGSTON 85cc 2st/150cc 4st All Wheels 12 – U 16 Years Girls
751 Angus PEARCE 85cc 2st/150cc 4st Std or BW 12 – Under 14 Years
757 Jett BURGESS-STEVENS 85cc 2st/150cc 4st Std or BW 12 – Under 14 Years
757 Jett BURGESS-STEVENS 100-125cc 2st 13 – Under 15 Years
76 Evan LOCKWOOD 100-125cc 2st 15 Years
Northern Territory
198 Rhys Gwynne 50cc Division 2 – 7 – Under 9 Years
106 Mitchell Thorneycroft 85cc 9-U12 Years
174 Clayton Bogucki 85cc 9-U12 Years
100 Ryan Van Deventer 85cc 12-U14 Years
100 Ryan Van Deventer 125cc 13-U15 Years
141 Jayden O’Connor 125cc 13-U15 Years
138 Thomas Bennett 125cc 15 Years
521 Declan SMART 65cc 7 – Under 10 Years
Western Australia
68 Liam ATKINSON 100-125cc 2st 13 – Under 15 Years
658 Mason BROWN 65cc 7 – Under 10 Years
60 Brock FLYNN 100-125cc 2st 13 – Under 15 Years
602 Deegan FORT 50cc Division 2 – 7 – Under 9 Years
66 Kayden MINEAR 65cc 10 – Under 12 Years
66 Kayden MINEAR 85cc 2st/150cc 4st Std Wheel 9 – Under 12 Years
66 Jaylee RIMBAS 85cc 2st/150cc 4st All Wheels 12 – U 16 Years Girls
65 Seth SHACKLETON 65cc 10 – Under 12 Years
South Australia
5 Alex LARWOOD 100-125cc 2st 15 Years
5 Wil CARPENTER 85cc 2st/150cc 4st Std Wheel 9 – Under 12 Years
51 Dakota COLLINS 85cc 2st/150cc 4st All Wheels 12 – U 16 Years Girls
52 Taj GOW-SMITH 100-125cc 2st 13 – Under 15 Years
53 Jai HAY 65cc 7 – Under 10 Years
5 Emma HAYLOCK 85cc 2st/150cc 4st All Wheels 12 – U 16 Years Girls
5 Alex LARWOOD 128-150cc 2st/200-250cc 4st 15 Years
5 Levi ROSSI 65cc 7 – Under 10 Years
Queensland
46 Taylah MCCUTCHEON 85cc 2st/150cc 4st All Wheels 12 – U 16 Years Girls
47 Ryan ALEXANDERSON 100-125cc 2st 13 – Under 15 Years
42 Jet ALSOP 85cc 2st/150cc 4st Std Wheel 9 – Under 12 Years
494 Charli CANNON 100-150cc 2st/200-250cc 4st 13 – Under 16 Years Girls
4 Cooper DOWNING 65cc 7 – Under 10 Years
46 Kobe DREW 85cc 2st/150cc 4st Std or BW 12 – Under 14 Years
401 Levi ROGERS 128-150cc 2st/200-250cc 4st 15 Years
45 Brad WEST 128-150cc 2st/200-250cc 4st 13 – Under 15 Years
Victoria
37 Kipp ADAMS 128-150cc 2st/200-250cc 4st 15 Years
32 Jobe DUNNE 65cc 7 – Under 10 Years
352 Oscar FOX 65cc 10 – Under 12 Years
370 Connor GUILLOT 50cc Division 2 – 7 – Under 9 Years
32 Madison HEALEY 100-150cc 2st/200-250cc 4st 13 – Under 16 Years Girls
38 Thynan KEAN 128-150cc 2st/200-250cc 4st 13 – Under 15 Years
34 Jake SANDERSON 85cc 2st/150cc 4st Std Wheel 9 – Under 12 Years
39 Connar ADAMS 85cc 2st/150cc 4st Std or BW 14 – Under 16 Years
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2020 Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship Schedule
The 12-round schedule for the 2020 Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing has been announced. The 49th season will once again visit 11 different states over the course of the summer, beginning with the legendary Hangtown Motocross Classic on May 16, and concluding with the Ironman National on August 29.
The most talented collection of riders on the planet will battle it out over the course of 24 motos across the 450 Class and 250 Class, pushing both their physical and mental limits in the most grueling conditions found in any motorsports championship. Their quest to capture the most coveted titles in motocross, the Edison Dye Cup (450 Class) and the Gary Jones Cup (250 Class), will bring these exceptional athletes to the most storied racetracks in the world, many of which boast legacies that span more than four decades.
2019 Ironman National – 2019 AMA Pro Motocross – Round 12 – Image by Hoppenworld
With three consecutive 450 Class titles to his credit, reigning champion Eli Tomac will look to make even more history next summer, seeking to become one of just two riders to hoist the Edison Dye Cup for four straight seasons.
Eli Tomac – 2019 AMA Pro Motocross – Ironman National – Image by Hoppenworld
He’ll welcome a new challenger to that title defense under the Monster Energy Kawasaki tent, where newly crowned 250 Class Champion Adam Cianciarulo will step up onto the big bikes as a teammate to Tomac, joining the likes of a deep list of fellow contenders that includes Ken Roczen, Marvin Musquin, Jason Anderson, Zach Osborne, Cooper Webb and more.
Adam Cianciarulo – Image by Hoppenworld
With Cianciarulo’s departure from the 250 Class, the title vacancy opens the door for a wide-open battle to claim the Gary Jones Cup, where Jeremy Martin, the lone former champion in the division, will battle it out alongside a promising group of up and coming talent, led by teammates Dylan Ferrandis and Justin Cooper.
2020 Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship Schedule
May 16 – Hangtown Classic Prairie City SVRA Rancho Cordova, Calif.
May 23 – Fox Raceway National Fox Raceway Pala, Calif.
May 30 – Thunder Valley National Thunder Valley Motocross Park Lakewood, Colo.
Jun 06 – Florida National WW Ranch Motocross Park Jacksonville, Fla.
Jun 20 – High Point National High Point Raceway Mt. Morris, Pa.
Jun 27 – Southwick National The Wick 338 Southwick, Mass.
Jul 04 – RedBud National RedBud MX Buchanan, Mich.
Jul 18 – Spring Creek National Spring Creek MX Park Millville, Minn.
Jul 25 – Washougal National Washougal MX Park Washougal, Wash.
Aug 15 – Unadilla National Unadilla MX New Berlin, N.Y.
Aug 22 – Budds Creek National Budds Creek Motocross Park Mechanicsville, Md.
Aug 29 – Ironman National Ironman Raceway Crawfordsville, Ind.
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Rene Hofer join Red Bull KTM MX2 effort full-time in 2020
Rene Hofer will join Red Bull KTM as a full-time Grand Prix rider in 2020. The 17 year old impressed with three wild-card MX2 appearances in 2019 in what was his first full year of competition with the KTM 250 SX-F. The Austrian will give KTM factory presence in the MX2 class alongside Tom Vialle next season with double world champion Jorge Prado joining the MXGP category with Tony Cairoli and Jeffrey Herlings.
Rene Hofer joins Red Bull KTM MX2 full time in 2020
The teenager (who will turn 18 in the first days of 2020) is a former FIM Junior and European Champion and has risen through the ranks. He won EMX125 European Championship races in 2018 and was a contender for the title until a mid-season injury. Hofer claimed a podium finish and classified fourth in the EMX250 standings at his first attempt in 2019.
The rider from Linz joined the Grand Prix team for three appearances this summer; taking his first FIM world championship points in the Czech Republic and then scoring seventh place overall at the Grand Prix of Italy at Imola. He also represented Team Austria as one of the three best racers from his country for the 73rd Motocross of Nations at the TT Circuit Assen.
Hofer will be the first Austrian to represent the modern incarnation of Red Bull KTM, the first in MX2 and the third native in the factory team after Heinz Kinigadner and current VP of Offroad Robert Jonas.
Rene Hofer
“I’m super-excited. We’ve really worked for this over the last couple of years and my dreams are coming true right now. We were not sure if it would happen for 2020 but I showed some good speed in the second half of the season and also that I could compete in good positions in MX2. I felt confident in the class from the very first time, even if the weekend routine is pretty different from EMX. I’m so grateful to be able to have the chance to ride for the most successful team in the GP paddock and to have the best racing people around me as well as being able to learn from Tom. I’ve trained with him a few times now and he’s a really nice guy. He had an unbelievable rookie season and I think we can put in some solid preparation work over the winter to be ready for 2020. I turn 18 next year and I know I am ready for this step. For sure the result in Imola was very good but I will be hungry for more and I will bring in the very best effort from my side. I cannot forget to thank all the people who have helped me reach this stage of my career and who have helped shape me as a rider and as a human. I cannot wait to start work for 2020 but first I need to focus on this weekend!”
Rene Hofer joins Red Bull KTM MX2 full time in 2020
Mathys Boisrame joins F&H Kawasaki
Team F&H Kawasaki will line up the last two European champions in the 2020 FIM World MX2 Motocross Championship as 2018 champion Mathys Boisrame joins Roan van de Moosdijk in the Dutch team.
One of the youngest teams in the GP paddock, Team F&H Kawasaki has a short but already successful story as they have clinched MX2 GP podium results during each of the past two seasons as well as the 2019 European title.
Just a few years after its creation by Harry Fase, F&H has been involved in both the EMX250 and MX2 championships this season and it was the logical progression for the team’s European champion Roan van de Moosdijk to transfer to the MX2 World Championship. He will be joined in 2020 by Mathys Boisrame, the French youngster who recorded a top ten world ranking during his rookie MX2 GP campaign this season; the 2018 European champion, who turned twenty-one this summer, has shown great potential with numerous top ten results throughout the season and an overall podium in Germany. The team will line up three riders in the MX2 World Championship next year; the identity of the third exciting signing will be revealed soon.
Mathys Boisrame
“I’m really happy to finally join the F&H Kawasaki team as we already talked together last year after my European title. This year was a learning curve for me in the World Championship; I did my best with the material I had but for sure there’s a big step between the European and World Championship and I was so impressed when I did a test with the KX250 Kawasaki. The bike handles so well, is really powerful and the team is so professional that it didn’t take me long to know I wanted to sign with them. It will be a huge change for me as I will move to the team base in the Netherlands on November 1st; for sure it’s not easy to leave home but I know what I want. Being close to the team, working with Marc de Reuver and riding in the sand will bring me all the tools for us to succeed together.”
Mathys Boisrame joins F&H Kawasaki
Nathalie Fase – F&H Kawasaki Team Manager
“We had a great season winning the Dutch and European titles, finishing fifth and sixth in the World Championship and we are very happy to add Mathys Boisrame, the 2018 European Champion, to our team for the upcoming years! We look forward to the new season and hope to be able to push again for great podiums! All ingredients are in the house, so bring it on!”
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KTM takes over Gas Gas
As part of the deal with Gas Gas, KTM also secures a controlling stake in the Torrot electric motorcycles and bicycles business as part of the deal struck ith Black Toro Capital, the owners of both Gas Gas and Torrot.
This move further expands the KTM portfolio (Husqvarna, WP etc), which will in future, presumably due to its now much broader stake in even more brands, will be renamed to Pierer Mobility AG.
2019 Gas Gas XC 300
In this instance though it seems KTM have agreed to keep the Spanish Gas Gas plant in Girona for at least the next three years. Gas Gas was originally formed from the ashes of Bultaco when that brand went tits-up in the mid 1980s. Gas Gas merged with Ossa in 2014.
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As part of the deal with Gas Gas, KTM also secures a controlling stake in the Torrot electric motorcycles and bicycles business as part of the deal struck ith Black Toro Capital, the owners of both Gas Gas and Torrot.
This move further expands the KTM portfolio (Husqvarna, WP etc), which will in future, presumably due to its now much broader stake in even more brands, will be renamed to Pierer Mobility AG.
The hate for KTM amongst the populace of Varese was visceral after the Austrian brand closed down the Husqvarna factory in Italy when they took control of the brand from BMW and moved production back to the Mattighofen grounds of KTM HQ.
In this instance though it seems as though KTM have agreed to keep the Spanish Gas Gas plant in Girona for at least the next three years. Gas Gas was originally formed from the ashes of Bultaco when that brand went tits-up in the mid 1980s. Gas Gas merged with Ossa in 2014.
How this new Spnish-Austrian cross-pollenation will also benefit KTM’s partners at Bajaj Auto is as yet unclear. The Indian company currently holds a 47.99 per cent stake in KTM AG.
Add to this the tie-ups KTM already has in place with CF Moto where the Chinese company produces some parts for KTM, and will produce their own CF Moto machines utilising KTM engines, and you start to get an inkling into just how much the whole KTM AG / Pierer picture has going on.
