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Entries closing this week for Whitsundays Supermoto and Junior Road Racing extravaganza

ENTRIES CLOSE DECEMBER 24

Entries for the 2021 MotoStars NATIONALS featuring the Australian Supermoto Championships and the Australian Junior Road Racing Championships in the Whitsundays are still available for booking HERE.

Entry fees for Senior classes: $350.00
*ASMC SUPERMOTO PRO
*ASMC SUPERMOTO PRO 250
*ASMC SUPERMOTO WOMENS
*ASMC SUPERMOTO OPEN
*SUPERMOTOSTARS CUP
*SUPERMOTO ROAD RACE OPEN
*MINI MOTO CUP
*MINIGP OPEN
*MOTOSTARS SENIOR CUP

Entry fees for Junior classes: $300.00
*AJRC 85GP
*AJRC 150 PRODUCTION
*MOTOSTARS JUNIOR CUP
*ASMC SUPERMOTO LITES

ADDITIONAL CLASS FEE: $50.00 per class

There is also an optional MotoStars Training event on the Friday 7th of January for the cost of $200. On-site Camping is also available this year, at a cost of $10 per person, per night.

We expect an oversubscription to some classes- and entries will be accepted on a first come, first serve basis OR where the number of entries is greater than the track capacity for practice and qualifying, acceptance of entries will be in accordance with the following:

1. Riders who gained points in previous rounds in the respective class.
2. Riders who gained points in the previous year in the respective class.

Closing date for entries is 24th of December. In the event of over subscription, MotoStars, in consultation with Motorcycling Australia, reserve the right to close entries prior to the nominated closing date.

We’ve been eager to go racing for ages now, as are our competitors, so we can’t wait to kick things off again at Proserpine. There will be more exciting announcements in the coming weeks, regarding sponsors, guest riders and spectators, so make sure you clear your calendar for most of January as you won’t want to miss it!” MotoStars Director, Damian Cudlin.

Source: MCNews.com.au

Moto Wrap | Duffy injury update | GNCC | MX | SX | EMX | MXGP

Ivano Van Erp tops EMX125 at Trentino

Ivano Van Erp of Yamaha Europe EMX125 MJC secured his third overall victory of the season at the round of Trentino after intense battles with the EMX125 Presented by FMF Racing championship leader Valerio Lata of MRT Racing Team KTM and ASA United GasGas Racing’s Bobby Bruce.

In race one, it was Bruce who grabbed the holeshot from Lata, Scott Smulders of No Fear / Jumbo BT Racing Team, Andrea Viano and Van Erp. Bruce then pulled a 1.789 second lead over Lata as Van Erp got passed by Janis-Martins Reisulis.

Bobby Bruce and Valerio Lata

Viano then started to push Smulders who was looking to respond but then the Dutchman crashed. He eventually came back to 11th.

On lap four, Van Erp got by Viano for third as he also set the fastest lap of the race. The Yamaha rider was then around five seconds behind Bruce and Lata. But as the race progressed Van Erp caught onto the back of the pair and then we witnessed a three-way battle for the win.

Lata cut Bruce’s gap considerably as he started to apply pressure onto the Brit and Van Erp made the most of this opportunity as he made an attempt to pass them both.

On lap 12 Lata was the new leader and it didn’t take long for Van Erp to get around Bruce also, as the GasGas rider dropped to third. Van Erp then focused on Lata and the pair fought closely until the end of the race.

Van Erp took the lead on several occasions, but Lata was able to respond and steal the victory from Van Erp, while Bruce finished third ahead of Bence Pregel and Kay Karssemakers of Husqvarna SKS Racing NL.

Ivano Van Erp
Ivano Van Erp

In race two, it was once again Bruce who got the holeshot, but a mistake from the Brit allowed Lata to quickly take the lead ahead of Van Erp. But by the end of the first lap we saw Van Erp get around Lata as he led the Italian, Bruce and Lucas Coenen of 9MM Energy Drink Bud Racing Kawasaki.

Van Erp then led by 2.291 seconds as Coenen got around Bruce for third. The Belgian then also set the fastest lap of the race. Further down the field a few of the other riders were also making passes as Marc-Antoine Rossi of Tech 32 got by Alexis Fueri of Fantic Factory Team Maddii and Ferruccio Zanchi of Yamaha Europe EMX125 MJC got around Pregel for 12th.

Van Erp continued to lead, with Lata keeping close and Coenen third, but then with just a few laps to go Lata managed to get onto the rear wheel of the Yamaha rider and it was game on for the race win again.

The gap went down to just 0.817 but Van Erp was able to hold on to it and win the race just 0.610 seconds ahead of Lata as Coenen crossed the line third, while Bruce was fourth ahead of Rossi in fifth.

With a second and a race win, Van Erp finished the day on the top step of the podium while Lata finished second and Bruce was third.

Ivano Van Erp
Ivano Van Erp

Lata continues to lead the EMX125 Presented by FMF Racing championship standings 20 points over Bruce, while Karssemakers is a further 20 points behind. The European 125cc Championship will continue on Tuesday for the round of Pietramurata.

Ivano Van Erp – P1

“I felt good all day long in free and time practice. In the first race my start was not so great, and I had to come from seventh place, just got my concertation and got to third I think. Then I saw on my pit board eight seconds to Bobby and Valerio. I managed to cut the gap and have a nice battle in the end of the race with Valerio and then in the second race I had a better start and then on the second lap I passed Valerio, had good focus for the rest of the race to take the win so I am very happy.”

Valerio Lata – P2

“Today it was quite difficult in the races but I had a good first race and took the victory and then in the second race I got a good start but Ivano was very fast, so I finished second. Now I’m ready for the next race here in Pietramurata.”

Valerio Lata
Valerio Lata

Bobby Bruce – P3

“We got two good starts today which was really good. I led a good amount of the race in the first one and just tensed up a bit. We didn’t really have so much time in between the races to get a good bike set-up, but I feel we’re making good progress. In the second race I felt good but the guys in front just had better pace today. I am excited for Tuesday to do it all again.”

EMX125 Trentino 2021 Results

Pos Rider Nat. Bike R1 R2 Total
1 Van Erp, Ivano NED YAM 22 25 47
2 Lata, Valerio ITA KTM 25 22 47
3 Bruce, Bobby GBR GAS 20 18 38
4 Coenen, Lucas BEL KAW 9 20 29
5 Karssemakers, Kay NED HUS 16 12 28
6 Fueri, Alexis FRA FAN 13 14 27
7 Pergel, Bence HUN KTM 18 8 26
8 Smulders, Scott NED HUS 10 15 25
9 Puig, Victor ESP YAM 12 13 25
10 Reisulis, Karlis Alberts LAT YAM 14 11 25
11 Rossi, Marc-Antoine FRA KTM 8 16 24
12 Viano, Andrea ITA HUS 15 4 19
13 Kees, Valentin GER KTM 5 7 12
14 Escandell, Elias ESP GAS 7 5 12
15 Reisulis, Janis Martins LAT KTM 1 10 11
16 Gallego, Antonio ESP GAS 11 0 11
17 Zanchi, Ferruccio ITA YAM 0 9 9
18 Cazal, Xavier FRA KTM 3 6 9
19 Garcia, Francisco ESP HUS 6 1 7
20 Mikula, Julius CZE KTM 4 0 4
21 Haution, Diego FRA HUS 0 3 3
22 Lusis, Roberts LAT KTM 0 2 2
23 Turaglio, Nicolò ITA KTM 2 0 2

EMX125 Standings

Pos Rider Nat. Bike Total
1 Lata, Valerio ITA KTM 221
2 Bruce, Bobby GBR GAS 201
3 Karssemakers, K. NED HUS 186
4 Van Erp, Ivano NED YAM 164
5 Coenen, Lucas BEL KAW 148
6 Smulders, S. NED HUS 140
7 Rossi, M. FRA KTM 130
8 Zanchi, F. ITA YAM 110
9 Coenen, Sacha BEL KAW 110
10 Osterhagen, H. NOR FAN 95
11 Sanchez, Raul ESP GAS 95
12 Reisulis, K. LAT YAM 94
13 Cazal, Xavier FRA KTM 91
14 Viano, Andrea ITA HUS 81
15 Fueri, Alexis FRA FAN 80
16 Puig, Victor ESP YAM 78
17 Escandell, E. ESP GAS 77
18 Rossi, Andrea ITA KTM 51
19 Mikula, Julius CZE KTM 46
20 Monne Viles, A. ESP KTM 37
21 Pergel, Bence HUN KTM 35
22 Ruffini, Luca ITA KTM 34
23 Canet, Edgar ESP GAS 32
24 Gutierrez, P. ESP GAS 29
25 Petit, Adrien FRA YAM 26
26 Valk, Cas NED HUS 24
27 Duhamel, N. FRA KTM 24
28 Nickel, Cato GER KTM 23
29 Haution, Diego FRA HUS 21
30 Kees, Valentin GER KTM 21
31 Bennati, M. ITA HUS 20
32 Salvini, N. ITA HUS 16
33 Werner, M. GER KTM 16
34 Garcia, F. ESP HUS 12
35 Gallego, A. ESP GAS 11
36 Reisulis, J. LAT KTM 11
37 Turaglio, N. ITA KTM 10
38 Karu, Romeo EST HUS 7
39 Johnston, B. GBR GAS 7
40 Aguilo Azorin, U. ESP KTM 6
41 Hindersson, K. FIN KTM 6
42 Mesters, B. NED KAW 5
43 Alonso, Marco ESP HUS 4
44 Vantaggiato, M. ITA HUS 4
45 Costa, Fabio PER GAS 3
46 Lusis, Roberts LAT KTM 2
47 Volpicelli, E. ITA GAS 2
48 Lobo, Sandro POR YAM 2
49 Israel, N. CHL KTM 1
50 Beernaert, B. BEL GAS 1
51 Stenberg, Nico FIN KTM 1
52 Giorgessi, T. FRA GAS 1

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Courtney Duncan crowned WMX 2021 Champion

Courtney Duncan has won her third consecutive FIM Motocross World Championship in Trentino, clinching the title in the first race of the day, and ending the season 31-points clear of runner up Nancy Van De Ven.

Courtney Duncan - Bike It MTX Kawasaki
Courtney Duncan – Bike It MTX Kawasaki

Despite hitting the dirt last weekend, fracturing her finger and left with a nasty cut, nothing could stop Duncan in her final charge to victory, riding calculatingly for a championship winning third in the opening race. As carnage unfolded around her and her main competitor Italian Kiara Fontanesi went down after a collision with another rider, the Kiwi superstar rode through the finish flags with enough points to claim her third WMX winner’s gold plate.

Courtney Duncan

“It comes down to how much it means to you, and how much is on the line and how much you want to win it. I was definitely feeling a little anxious but as soon as I got to the line, the helmet went on and I felt pretty controlled out there. I was able to finish third which was good enough to win the championship in the first one, which was pretty crazy. I wasn’t expecting that. This year’s been really tough. We’ve had ups and downs. Along the way it hasn’t been a smooth run. I’ve made the best out of every situation and got as much points as possible. I got to share the victory with my team and Kawasaki and a couple of friends I have over here. It’s been awesome how there’s not so much Covid over here, so we had the whole team and fans watching this weekend. I wish I could say I was going home to New Zealand soon now that the season’s over but it’s difficult to travel at the moment so I might be a Brit for a few more months.”

Courtney Duncan - Bike It MTX Kawasaki
Courtney Duncan – Bike It MTX Kawasaki

2021 WMX Final Standings – Top 10

Pos Rider Nat. Bike Total
1 Duncan, C. NZL KAW 268
2 Van De Ven, N. NED YAM 237
3 Fontanesi, K. ITA GAS 227
4 Papenmeier, L. GER YAM 214
5 van der Vlist, S. NED KTM 197
6 Verstappen, A. BEL KAW 184
7 Valk, Lynn NED HUS 174
8 Andersen, Sara DEN KTM 159
9 Guillen, D. ESP KTM 154
10 O’Hare, T. AUS HON 112

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2021 MXGP of Trentino – Round 14 Report

Red Bull KTM Factory Racing dominated the MXGP of Trentino, Jeffrey Herlings topping the MXGP, while Tom Vialle won the MX2, with both riders going 1-1 for the win.

Jeffrey Herlings topped the MXGP in Trentino

Once again, both classes delivered on some intense battles and very close racing, especially in MXGP as the top four battled within just a few seconds of one another in both heats. This was a treat for the huge crowd of fans that lined the hard-pack circuit and who were keen to cheer on their favourites.

Riders will do it all again on Wednesday as the FIM Motocross World championship will continue with the MXGP of Pietramurata for round 15 of the series.

MXGP Race 1

In MXGP race one, it was Monster Energy Yamaha Factory Racing’s Jeremy Seewer who grabbed the Fox Holeshot from his teammate Ben Watson, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Jorge Prado and Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Jeffrey Herlings. Meanwhile Tim Gajser from Team HRC started around sixth position.

Tim Gajser
Tim Gajser

Watson then crashed which allowed Herlings through as Monster Energy Kawasaki Racing Team’s Romain Febvre followed the Dutchman. Gajser then got around Prado as well for fourth and was the fastest rider out on track in one of the first few laps.

Febvre then looked for a way to launch an attack onto Herlings as the pair pushed on and urged on the leader, Seewer, who set his best lap of the race. Herlings kept it close to Seewer as Febvre and Gajser were also searching for an opportunity to pass.

Romain Febvre
Romain Febvre

The racing within the top four was extremely close, as the gap was just 2.573 between Herlings in first place and Gajser who was down in fourth.

Further down the field Prado, Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s Thomas Kjer Olsen and Monster Energy Yamaha Factory Racing’s Glenn Coldenhoff were having a good fight for fifth.

Glenn Coldenhoff
Glenn Coldenhoff

Herlings then close in on Seewer, who had Febvre closing in on him, who had Gajser chasing him down too… In the end Herlings made a nice move on the Swiss on lap 11 to take over the lead.

Prado then crashed but only lost three positions, finishing the race in 8th ahead of Mathys Boisrame who made his debut with Monster Energy Kawasaki Racing Team in the MXGP class.

In the end Herlings won ahead of Seewer and Febvre, with Gajser fourth after struggling to pass the Frenchman ahead of him. Coldenhoff had a good first heat to end in fifth place ahead of Standing Construct GasGas Factory Racing’s Pauls Jonass.

MXGP Race 2

In the second heat, the Fox Holeshot went to JM Honda Racing’s Henry Jacobi as a couple of riders got tangled up in the first corner, this included Olsen and Standing Construct GasGas Factory Racing’s Brian Bogers.

Herlings and Gajser started the race 12th and 13th, while Jacobi led Febvre, Coldenhoff and Honda SR Motoblouz rider Benoit Paturel. The German’s time in the lead did not last long as Febvre was in the driving seat by the end of the first lap. Coldenhoff went through as well.

Gajser then managed to make up some good positions as he got by Watson for fifth as Herlings followed through. The Slovenian then got around Paturel and set his sights on Jacobi who made it a little bit harder to pass, but by lap four he was ahead of the JM Honda rider. Herlings did the same not too long after.

Tim Gajser
Tim Gajser

Seewer had to fight through the field in the second race as he got around his teammate Watson for seventh. The Swiss made a couple of more passes and finished the race fifth, but it was not enough for a podium.

Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Antonio Cairoli had more bad luck in race two, as he also DNF’d the second race after struggling from his crash in race one.

Brian Bogers
Brian Bogers

Prado also struggled with Bogers and Jonass ahead of him. The two GasGas riders managed to come back to 12th and 13th, while Prado finished in 17th.

Febvre then started to come under pressure from Coldenhoff who brought the gap down to 1.920. Gajser also caught onto the pair and was looking for the perfect moment to pass. As the battle for the lead went on, it looked like Febvre struggled with arm pump as he started to make mistakes.

Romain Febvre
Romain Febvre

Herlings then joined the three-way battle for first as he took third from Gajser. Coldenhoff also made a pass as he moved into the lead on lap 12. The Dutchman led for five laps before being caught by his fellow countryman Herlings.

Gajser and Febvre then fought for third as the factory Honda rider was eventually able to secure the position after the pair made contact in one of the corners.

In the end Herlings was the race winner as Coldenhoff was able to fend off Gajser in third, while Febvre and Seewer rounded out the top five.

Tim Gajser

With two race wins, Herlings added a fifth GP victory in Trentino to become the most successful rider at this venue, with Coldenhoff and Gajser tied on points in second and third places. In fact, Coldenhoff, Gajser, Febvre and Seewer all finished with 38 points, while Herlings was on 50.

Herlings now leads the MXGP standings 24 points over Febvre, while Gajser is just three points behind.

Jeffrey Herlings – P1

“It wasn’t an easy one. In the first race Jeremy was leading, riding smooth and at a good pace so it was tough to pass him. But at one point I knew I had to go because the boys behind me started pushing, so I had to pass him. The second race, I was caught up a bit in the start. Tim and I were somewhere around 10th or 12th and we both fought our way back to the front. He was one place ahead of me. At one point we caught up to the leader and I managed to pass him. Then I had to defend and pass Romain. It was a tough run, but I am happy to have won. I feel like I am in a very good shape right now, but I should never underestimate the competition from Tim, Romain or Glen today. It can be anyone’s race. So, I will keep charging till the end. We are only 17 days away and a lot of things may happen during the last four races.”

Jeffrey Herlings

Glenn Coldenhoff – P2

“I have been struggling all year long except in Maggiora, so it’s good to be back on the podium. It’s been a very long and hard road. It’s good to be back here and I also feel like I belong here. I had a good feeling straight away this morning. I finished fifth in the first race. The second one was quite intense to say the least. In the beginning I was behind Febvre. I got so much pressure from behind, so I really had to do something. I managed to pass Romain and lead a few laps. I can tell you it was a great feeling. Definitely looking forward to having more battles like that. Jeffrey as we know is really strong lately. He passed me and I don’t think it’s a shame. It’s good that we have two more rounds here. I started this stretch on a positive note and I am looking forward to the rest of the season.”

Tim Gajser – P3

“I did not have the best start in both races, so I had to fight my way back. Then I came to the top four and we were all riding at a similar pace so it wasn’t easy to make a pass. Overall, the speed was there. I think we have to work on the starts, to get better starts and to be in front and to battle for the win. Really looking forward to Wednesday. The gap in the championship is already quite big. But we know that anything can happen until the end. So definitely we will push hard until the end and try to win some races and GPs if I can and finish the season strong.”

Tim Gajser
Tim Gajser

Romain Febvre – P4

“Of course I am disappointed to miss the podium as we are four riders with the same number of points for second! The first race was pretty good; my start was not that good but I made some passes during the first lap and my rhythm was good but it was difficult to pass during the rest of the race. Second race I got a great start and took the lead on the first lap; I had good lap times until mid-race, then I started to make little mistakes and I didn’t really know which better lines I could take; Glenn, Jeffrey and Tim passed me and of course I’m disappointed, but that’s how it is and we’ll try to do better on Wednesday.“

Jeremy Seewer – P5

“Today was one of my best days so far this season. The bike seems to work well on this track, which is really positive. I feel good, I feel sharp and I am enjoying riding my bike. I am having a lot of fun; I am quick. I managed to get pole position, which is usually not my strong point. It was cool to get the holeshot and lead in the first moto for a while, and I was close to winning. Going into the second race I felt good, but was I got squeezed off the start and was very lucky not to go down. I clipped Jorge (Prado)’s back wheel and had to go straight. To recover to P.5 was great because I started last. It’s a shame I am not on the podium. We are with four riders on the same points, so let’s look at the positives, good points, and I’m looking forward to going racing here again in a couple of days.”

Mathys Boisrame – P6

“It was a good day for my first experience in the MXGP class! I posted the tenth fastest time in the morning but the first start was not easy and in the fourth corner I crashed with Cairoli! I was twenty-fifth and came back through to ninth which was not bad. The second start was similar but once more I came back to ninth. I am tired but satisfied with my riding and over the moon with a sixth overall at my first MXGP race.”

Mathys Boisrame

Pauls Jonass – P7

“After making some good progress in recent weeks I was a little disappointed with my riding today. Having said that, race one was ok and I moved into sixth with two laps to go so that was a good result despite not feeling my best. Then in race two I had a pretty big crash all on my own on the first lap so I was way down the field. It’s not an easy track to make passes on but I managed to salvage 12th so that wasn’t too bad. I need to work on a few things before Wednesday and my aim is to be back up front again.”

Ben Watson – P10

“I had good starts today and that is a positive point. It always helps. Around here, it’s really difficult to pass. I am still not feeling 100%. My ankle is not perfect, and in general, I’ve not had a lot of time on the bike since I’ve injured it, so I am a bit behind. I felt pretty good out on the track, I just had a couple of crashes in the first race, but in the second one, I was consistent with consistent laps. Overall, not a bad day.”

Jorge Prado – P13

“I gave everything I had. 100%. Even with a broken bone I was fighting for top five in the first moto. It was a pity about the crash with five minutes to go but I still managed to finish. I suffered a lot. I missed the start completely in the second moto and wasn’t happy about 17th but I cannot really fight in my situation at the moment. Hopefully it will be less painful on Wednesday. Starts count for so much here and I also want to make less mistakes like I did in the second moto.”

Jorge Prado

2021 MXGP of Trentino Results

Pos Rider Nat. Bike R1 R2 Total
1 Herlings, Jeffrey NED KTM 25 25 50
2 Coldenhoff, Glenn NED YAM 16 22 38
3 Gajser, Tim SLO HON 18 20 38
4 Febvre, Romain FRA KAW 20 18 38
5 Seewer, Jeremy SUI YAM 22 16 38
6 Boisrame, Mathys FRA KAW 12 12 24
7 Jonass, Pauls LAT GAS 15 9 24
8 Koch, Tom GER KTM 10 13 23
9 Paturel, Benoit FRA HON 7 15 22
10 Watson, Ben GBR YAM 6 14 20
11 Olsen, Thomas Kjer DEN HUS 14 5 19
12 Lupino, Alessandro ITA KTM 11 6 17
13 Prado, Jorge ESP KTM 13 4 17
14 Guillod, Valentin SUI YAM 0 11 11
15 Jacobi, Henry GER HON 0 10 10
16 Bogers, Brian NED GAS 1 8 9
17 Simpson, Shaun GBR KTM 2 7 9
18 Van Horebeek, Jeremy BEL BET 9 0 9
19 Wright, Dylan CAN HON 8 0 8
20 Tonus, Arnaud SUI YAM 4 3 7
21 Butron, Jose ESP KTM 3 2 5
22 Strijbos, Kevin BEL YAM 5 0 5
23 Locurcio, Lorenzo VEN KTM 0 1 1

2021 MXGP Standings – Round 14

Pos Rider Nat. Bike Total
1 Herlings, J. NED KTM 555
2 Febvre, Romain FRA KAW 531
3 Gajser, Tim SLO HON 528
4 Prado, Jorge ESP KTM 457
5 Cairoli, A. ITA KTM 419
6 Seewer, Jeremy SUI YAM 411
7 Jonass, Pauls LAT GAS 376
8 Coldenhoff, G. NED YAM 340
9 Lupino, A. ITA KTM 250
10 Olsen, T. DEN HUS 239
11 Bogers, Brian NED GAS 218
12 Watson, Ben GBR YAM 217
13 Vlaanderen, C. NED YAM 203
14 Van Horebeek, J. BEL BET 165
15 Jacobi, Henry GER HON 145
16 Van doninck, B. BEL YAM 120
17 Tonus, Arnaud SUI YAM 119
18 Forato, A. ITA GAS 108
19 Strijbos, K. BEL YAM 103
20 Simpson, Shaun GBR KTM 100
21 Jasikonis, A. LTU HUS 87
22 Paturel, B. FRA HON 86
23 Monticelli, I. ITA KAW 54
24 Koch, Tom GER KTM 53
25 Östlund, Alvin SWE YAM 50
26 Sterry, Adam GBR KTM 39
27 Locurcio, L. VEN KTM 36
28 Tixier, Jordi FRA KTM 33
29 Brylyakov, V. MFR HON 30
30 Boisrame, M. FRA KAW 24
31 Guillod, V. SUI YAM 24
32 Genot, Cyril BEL KTM 15
33 Gilbert, Josh GBR HUS 10
34 Butron, Jose ESP KTM 9
35 Wright, Dylan CAN HON 8
36 Bobryshev, E. MFR HUS 6
37 van Berkel, L. NED HON 5
38 Clochet, Jimmy FRA BET 4
39 Watson, Nathan GBR HON 4
40 Desprey, M. FRA YAM 3
41 Roosiorg, H. EST KTM 1
42 Gole, Anton SWE HUS 1
43 Lesiardo, M. ITA HON 1
44 Kellett, Todd GBR YAM 1
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MX2 Race 1

In MX2 race one, it was Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Tom Vialle with the Fox Holeshot as he led Monster Energy Yamaha Factory Racing’s Thibault Benistant into the first corner.

Tom Vialle
Tom Vialle

Benistant then slipped to third as Isak Gifting of Diga Procross GasGas Factory Racing got around the Frenchman. Meanwhile further down the field, the championship leader Maxime Renaux from Monster Energy Yamaha Factory Racing struggled out of the gate as he started the race down in 18th position.

Vialle continued to lead Gifting, Benistant and Monster Energy Yamaha Factory Racing’s Jago Geerts as Renaux climbed his way into 13th in the first few laps. The red plate holder then caught onto Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Rene Hofer and after passing him, shifted his focus on getting around Andrea Adamo of SM Action Racing Team YUSA Battery.

Rene Hofer
Rene Hofer

As Renaux struggled to pass Adamo, Beaton also joined the battle for eighth as he raced behind Hofer. It took Renaux four laps to pass the Italian, but he was eventually able to get it done on lap six.

Geerts then got by Benistant as he moved into third, while Tom Guyon of Team VHR KTM was having a great ride in 12th. He eventually finished the race in 13th position on what was a wildcard appearance in the MX2 category.

Jago Geerts

Benistant then crashed and struggled for the remainder of the race as it turns out he had an electrical problem with his bike. Meanwhile his teammate Geerts was applying pressure onto Gifting for second as Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s Kay de Wolf and Honda 114 Motorsports’ Ruben Fernandez fought for fourth place. Fernandez ended up winning that fight.

Vialle then stretched his lead to 12.051 seconds as Gifting worked hard to keep Geerts behind him but as the race progressed, he succumbed to the pressure and let the Yamaha rider through on the last lap.

Tom Vialle

Vialle went on to win the race ahead of Geerts and Gifting, while Renaux managed to come back to sixth as local hero Mattia Guadagnini of Red Bull KTM Factory Racing struggled the entire race and could only manage 18th.

MX2 Race 2

In race two, it was again Vialle with the Fox Holeshot as Renaux went down in the first corner. The KTM rider led his teammate Hofer, Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s Jed Beaton, Geerts and Mike Gwerder of WZ Racing Team.

Tom Vialle
Tom Vialle

Fernandez then got by Gwerder, as Gifting started down in 11th position. He only managed to get back to ninth by the end of the race.

Renaux had a big battle on his hands as he started in last but was able to make some nice passes in the first few laps.

At the front of the field though, Hofer crashed out of second which allowed Geerts to move into second. Beaton was right there too as he clocked the best lap of the race as he was closing in on the two leaders.

Mattia Guadagnini

Guadagnini has a much better second race as he got by Guyon for seventh, while Renaux passed Honda Racing Assomotor Team’s Stephen Rubini. Gifting and Gwerder were next in his sights.

Benistant then crashed out of ninth position as he looked a little hurt while getting up. He continued the race to finish in 17th.

Geerts then started to close down the gap to Vialle and began to apply the pressure onto the leader. With two laps to go Geerts was within striking distance but could not find an opportunity for a pass and was forced to settle for second as Vialle went on to win the race. Beaton was third ahead of Fernandez and Hofer.

Jed Beaton
Jed Beaton

With two race victories, Vialle went on to win the MXGP of Trentino as Geerts got himself back on the box for second overall, while Fernandez celebrated his first GP podium in 12 races to finish third overall.

Renaux was eighth overall this weekend but continues to lead the championship by 92 points over Geerts and Vialle who moves to third in the standings and is just four points behind the Belgian.

Tom Vialle – P1

“It was a tough one. In the second race, Jago started third I think, and I had actually Rene behind me. I know he crashed because I saw him crash. Then Jago was second after 4 or 5 laps and I knew it was going to be a tough one. I tried to stay focused. I think I did a good race overall, not so many mistakes. It was a great weekend and started off really good right from the morning. I felt good on the track and also had two great starts, so everything was fine today. We all know it’s a nice area here. The track is also pretty cool. We still have two more races here, so I will try to have good starts, fight for the top position in the championship and try to close the gap as much as possible. That’s what I did today, and I will try to continue this way.”

Tom Vialle

Jago Geerts – P2

“I am really happy with the day. I felt really good in time practice. I had two solid races with two second places. The riding was really good, but we still need to improve the start a little bit. I think I started off fourth both times, but a really good start is needed on the track to seal the win. I just had a difficult period. Everything went well again since the second race in Spain, where I finished second. That gave me a real confidence boost. Then now two more second places so I am really happy with that.”

Ruben Fernandez – P3

“I did not feel really good at the beginning in practice. The track was slippery, and I did not find a good rhythm. But I had better start in both races where I was in the top 10. The first race was a bit worse. I then made my way into fourth during both heats. I am happy with the riding; it’s been calm and solid I would say. 4-4 for third overall, I’ll take it. I am happy to be back on the podium after the second round of the season. I had an injury in between, with no riding for three weeks. I came back in France and from there I have been improving and getting back on my feet, which I am really happy with.”

Jed Beaton – P4

“Overall, it’s been a good day and it ended with a strong result, but it definitely should have been better. If it wasn’t for a small crash in race one, I’m pretty sure I would have gotten on the overall podium, but I made a small mistake and it cost me big time. In race two I got another great start and I was putting together a strong race for the first half. I then made a few mistakes and lost the tow from the leaders, so I settled down, rode better lines, and secured third for fourth overall. I’m looking forward to Wednesday and my aim is to put together two solid races and get back on the box.”

Isak Gifting – P5

“It’s been a really positive day for me after not qualifying so well this morning. I had a great start in race one and it was awesome to be riding in clean air and up front with the top guys. I was in second for the whole moto and a little mistake on the last lap dropped me to third, but overall I was super-happy with that one. I didn’t get the best of starts in race two but I made it happen, making a lot of passes and ended up ninth for fifth overall. I’ll take a couple of days to rest now and I’m excited to be racing here again in a few days’ time.”

Isak Gifting
Isak Gifting

Kay de Wolf – P6

“After my big crash and breaking my nose last weekend I’m really happy with my results today. I really didn’t expect to bounce back like this and I made the best of it to finish sixth overall. I had great starts in both races and stayed out of trouble all day. My riding was solid today and I enjoyed myself out there, so I’m excited for Wednesday.”

Rene Hofer – P7

“The day began really well with 3rd place in qualifying but I had a top twelve start in the first moto and around this track you lose quite some time when you’re not at the front. I rode a solid race in P8. I was 2nd after Tom in the second race and could follow his pace for four laps and unfortunately, I made a small crash. I fell back to P5 and finished there. Riding-wise the day was pretty good and I had the speed for the podium. I’m looking forward to another two races here. I like the track, it’s not perfect but I like being here and will search for the podium again.”

Rene Hofer

Maxime Renaux – P8

“It was a tough day for me as you said. Actually, I felt really great in the morning. I had a really good lap time and finished second. Everything was on point and under control but then I really struggled in those two races. First start I was out of the top 20. I think I was 24th and fought as hard as I could. In the second race, I crashed in the first turn. I tried a different technique on the start, cutting a little bit more inside but I just lost the front in the first corner and touched the guys from the outside. Anyways, I just tried to fight my way back to the top and get as many points as I could because that’s all I could do. I finished eighth that race. Eighth overall as well, with 6-8. For sure, it was not the result we were waiting for, but I couldn’t make anything better today with my conditions and the way I started my races. It’s a strange feeling, but we’ll try to move on to better things and come back stronger on Wednesday with two good starts hopefully.”

Mattia Guadagnini – P12

“Probably the worst race of the year! It started with a big crash in Timed Practice and then I wasn’t feeling so great. I had a terrible start in the first moto and was trying to make some passes when I went down again. I lost the rhythm and just tried to get some points. Of course, 18th is not what I want. The second moto start was better and the whole race generally, even if I lost a few too many positions on the second corner for my liking. 7th was just OK and we’ll get better for the next GP.”

2021 MXGP of Trentino MX2 Results

Pos Rider Nat. Bike R1 R2 Total
1 Vialle, Tom FRA KTM 25 25 50
2 Geerts, Jago BEL YAM 22 22 44
3 Fernandez, Ruben ESP HON 18 18 36
4 Beaton, Jed AUS HUS 14 20 34
5 Gifting, Isak SWE GAS 20 12 32
6 de Wolf, Kay NED HUS 16 15 31
7 Hofer, Rene AUT KTM 13 16 29
8 Renaux, Maxime FRA YAM 15 13 28
9 Rubini, Stephen FRA HON 12 10 22
10 Guyon, Tom FRA KTM 8 11 19
11 Adamo, Andrea ITA GAS 10 9 19
12 Guadagnini, Mattia ITA KTM 3 14 17
13 Haarup, Mikkel DEN KAW 9 7 16
14 Laengenfelder, Simon GER GAS 7 8 15
15 Mewse, Conrad GBR KTM 11 3 14
16 Fredriksen, Hakon NOR YAM 6 6 12
17 Hsu, Brian HUN KTM 0 5 5
18 Meier, Glen DEN KTM 5 0 5
19 Benistant, Thibault FRA YAM 0 4 4
20 Todd, Wilson AUS KAW 4 0 4
21 Sandner, Michael AUT KTM 0 2 2
22 Gwerder, Mike SUI KTM 1 1 2
23 Facchetti, Gianluca ITA KTM 2 0 2

2021 MX2 Standings – Round 14

Pos Rider Nat. Bike Total
1 Renaux, Maxime FRA YAM 563
2 Geerts, Jago BEL YAM 471
3 Vialle, Tom FRA KTM 467
4 Guadagnini, M. ITA KTM 443
5 Beaton, Jed AUS HUS 429
6 Hofer, Rene AUT KTM 393
7 Benistant, T. FRA YAM 366
8 de Wolf, Kay NED HUS 362
9 Fernandez, R. ESP HON 328
10 Laengenfelder, S. GER GAS 245
11 Todd, Wilson AUS KAW 231
12 Haarup, Mikkel DEN KAW 225
13 Boisrame, M. FRA KAW 223
14 Gifting, Isak SWE GAS 215
15 Van De Moosdijk, R. NED KAW 190
16 Adamo, Andrea ITA GAS 182
17 Mewse, Conrad GBR KTM 143
18 Rubini, S. FRA HON 142
19 Pancar, Jan SLO KTM 99
20 Boegh Damm, B. DEN KTM 97
21 Polak, Petr CZE YAM 54
22 Facchetti, G. ITA KTM 47
23 Meier, Glen DEN KTM 31
24 Florian, Lion GER KTM 29
25 Horgmo, Kevin NOR GAS 26
26 Guyon, Tom FRA KTM 19
27 Teresak, Jakub CZE KTM 18
28 Sandner, M. AUT KTM 17
29 Everts, Liam BEL KTM 15
30 Brumann, Kevin SUI YAM 14
31 Fredriksen, H. NOR YAM 12
32 Dickinson, A. GBR KTM 11
33 Hammal, Taylor GBR KAW 10
34 Goupillon, P. FRA KTM 10
35 Tropepe, G. ITA HUS 7
36 Wagenknecht, J. CZE KTM 7
37 Farres, G. ESP GAS 6
38 Lata, Valerio ITA KTM 6
39 Weckman, Emil FIN HON 6
40 Olsson, Filip SWE HUS 6
41 Hsu, Brian HUN KTM 5
42 Scuteri, E. ITA TM 4
43 Petrashin, T. MFR KTM 4
44 Rizzi, Joel GBR HON 2
45 Congost, G. ESP YAM 2
46 Renkens, N. BEL KTM 2
47 Gwerder, Mike SUI KTM 2
48 Ludwig, Noah GER KTM 1
49 Nordström Graaf, A. SWE YAM 1
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2021 Racing schedule

2021 MXGP Calendar

Round Date MXGP Location 
11 03 Oct MXGP of Germany Teutschenthal
12 10 Oct MXGP of France Lacapelle Marival
13 17 Oct MXGP of Spain intu Xanadú – Arroyomolinos
14 24 Oct MXGP of Trentino (ITA) Pietramurata
15 27 Oct MXGP of Pietramurata (ITA) Pietramurata
16 31 Oct MXGP of Garda (ITA) Pietramurata
17 07 Nov MXGP of Lombardia (ITA) Mantova
18 10 Nov MXGP of Città di Mantova (ITA) Mantova


2021 FIM Hard Enduro World Championship

Round Date Event Location  
Round 1 May 7-9 Extreme XL Lagares Portugal FMP
Round 2 June 3-6 Red Bull Erzbergrodeo Austria AMF
Round 3 July 10/11 TBD Italy FMI
Round 4 July 27-31 Red Bull Romaniacs Romania FRM
Round 5 August 14/15 Red Bull TKO USA AMA
Round 6 September 18/19 TBD Poland PZM
Round 7 October 1-3 Hixpania Hard Enduro Spain RFME
Round 8 October 30/31 GetzenRodeo Germany DMSB

2021 Australian Speedway events

Championship Location  Date
2021 Australian Under 21’s Speedway Championship Gillman Speedway, SA Postponed
2021 Speedway FIM Oceania Speedway Championship Gillman Speedway, SA Postponed to November

2021 FIM Cross-Country Rallies calendar

Date Event Cat 1 RallyGP Cat 2 Rally 2 Cat 3
Grp1 Moto-Rally Grp1 Moto-Rally Grp2 Moto Enduro Grp3 Quad Adventure Trophy Grp1+3 SSV
April 9-13 BP Ultimate Portugal Rally (POR) X X X X X X
June 7-13 Rally Kazakhstan (KAZ) X X X X X
July 1-11 Silkway Rally (RUS) X X X X X
August 13-22 Rally do Sertoes (BRA) X X X X X
October 8-13 Rallye du Maroc (MAR) X X X X X X
November 6-12 Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge (UAE) X X X X X X

2021 GNCC

Round Date Event Name City, State Micro/eMTB
Rnd 1 Feb 20-21 Big Buck Union, SC Micro
Rnd 2 Mar 6-7 Wild Boar Palatka, FL Micro
Rnd 3 Mar 13-14 The General Washington, GA Micro/eMTB
Rnd 4 Mar 27-28 Camp Coker Bullet Society Hill, SC Micro
Rnd 5 Apr 17-18 Tiger Run Union, SC Micro/eMTB
Rnd 6 May 1-2 Hoosier Crawfordsville, IN Micro/eMTB
Rnd 7 May 22-23 The John Penton Millfield, OH Micro/eMTB
Rnd 8 Jun 5-6 Mason-Dixon Mount Morris, PA Micro/eMTB
Rnd 9 Jun 26-27 Snowshoe Snowshoe, WV eMTB
Rain Jul 10-11 RAIN DATE
Jul-31 Loretta Lynn eMTB Hurricane Mills, TN eMTB
Rnd 10 Sep 11-12 The Mountaineer Beckley, WV Micro/eMTB
Rnd 11 Sep 25-26 Burr Oak Millfield, OH Micro
Rnd 12 Oct 9-10 Buckwheat 100 Newburg, WV Micro
Rnd 13 Oct 23-24 Ironman Crawfordsville, IN Micro
Rain Nov 13-14 RAIN DATE
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Source: MCNews.com.au

New look for 2022 KTM 450 SMR

2022 KTM 450 SMR


KTM’s 450 SMR gets a new set of clothes for 2022 with an orange frame, blue seat and new graphics.

2022 KTM 450 SMR
2022 KTM 450 SMR

The championship-winning engine from KTM’s motocross and supercross machines has been adjusted and modified for optimum Supermoto use. The motor weighs just 27 kg but growls with torque and bites hard with 63 hp.

The power curve is both explored and exploited by the Pankl Racing Systems five-speed gearbox that benefits from a sensor which permits specific engine maps for each gear. A 44 mm Keihin throttle is key to the sensitive and confidence-inspiring way to summon the most of the KTM 450 SMR powerplant.

2022 KTM 450 SMR
2022 KTM 450 SMR

Handling comes through a special chromium molybdenum steel frame, fabricated by robotic laser-wielding for utmost precision and quality and the meld of perfect torsion and flex characteristics. The 16 mm offset geometry brings a natural and attackable sensation through the CNC-machined triple clamps with three-way amendable handlebar.

The KTM is equipped with a long list of premium quality parts, that includes WP Suspension XACT technology helps the 2022 KTM 450 SMR both stick and slide as the forces of physics drive through the Supermoto 16.5″/17″ ALPINA spoked tubeless wheels and Bridgestone slick tyres.

2022 KTM 450 SMR
2022 KTM 450 SMR

Ultimate braking performance is achieved with premium Brembo four-piston radial caliper and master cylinder set-up with 310 mm and 220 mm front and rear discs.

For 2022, the KTM 450 SMR introduces a frame finishing coated in racing orange to further reinforce the proximity to the race winning machines of the Red Bull KTM Factory Racing stars.

2022 KTM 450 SMR
2022 KTM 450 SMR

The updated frame aligns perfectly with the new blue seat cover and the fresh colors in the graphics to emphasise the link to KTM’s Factory machinery.

2022 KTM 450 SMR features:
  • Ultra-light chromoly steel frame with new finishing coated in racing orange
  • Upgraded aesthetics with racing graphics and factory blue seat
  • Advanced four-stroke 450cc powerplant with 63 hp at 27 kg
  • WP Suspension XACT AER 48 mm forks & XACT rear shock
  • PANKL Racing Systems 5-speed gearbox & SUTER anti-hopper clutch
  • Brembo 4-piston radial caliper, 310 mm floating front disc & 220mm rear
  • Supermoto 16.5″/17″ ALPINA light wheels & Bridgestone slick tyres
2022 KTM 450 SMR
2022 KTM 450 SMR

The 2022 KTM 450 SMR will be available in very limited numbers at authorised KTM dealers in Australia and New Zealand from January 2022 onwards. For more information, visit ktm.com.

2022 KTM 450 SMR
2022 KTM 450 SMR

Source: MCNews.com.au

Moto News | AMA Seat Swaps | Qatar Baja | Enduro | SGP | MXGP

2021 Australian Speedway Champs officially cancelled

Motorcycling Australia, in conjunction with the MA Track Commission and key stakeholders, have now advised the 2021 Australian Speedway Senior Solo, Australian U21’s and Australian U16’s 250cc Championships have been cancelled, along with postponing the 2022 Australian Speedway Senior Solo Championship.

Australian Speedway Senior Solo Championship

With so much uncertainty around the State border restrictions, as well as lockdowns and the lack of availability of international flights and with a significant number of riders currently overseas a decision as early as possible as important.

Motorcycling Australia (MA) and the Australian Track Commission have been in consultation with riders and clubs and are now concentrating on delivering a successful condensed 2022 Championship calendar pending Government restrictions around Covid-19.

  • April 1–3 – Australian U16’s 125cc Individual & Teams Speedway Championships – Sidewinders SA
  • November 26 – Australian U16’s 250cc Speedway Championship – Gillman Speedway SA
  • November 26 – Australian U21’s Speedway Championship– Gillman Speedway SA
  • December 2-3 – Australian Senior Solo Speedway Championship – TBA

Eli Tomac joins Monster Energy Star Yamaha Racing for 2022

Monster Energy Star Yamaha Racing will welcome Eli Tomac to the team for the 2022 Monster Energy AMA Supercross and Lucas Oil Pro Motocross season, joining the newly crowned 2021 Pro Motocross Champion Dylan Ferrandis, while Christian Craig will join the duo for the outdoor season stepping up to the Yamaha YZ450F.

Tomac brings with him a wealth of experience and is a proven championship contender. In addition to his three consecutive Pro Motocross 450MX titles from 2017-2019, he added the coveted 450SX Championship to his resume in 2020. The Coloradan has amassed an impressive number of victories and is the winningest rider currently active in both premier class championships.

Eli Tomac – Monster Energy Star Yamaha Racing

“I’m really excited about this next chapter of my racing career with the Monster Energy Star Yamaha Racing team. With the recent success of the team, motorcycle, and crew members in place, I know we will be ready for the challenge of winning races. January can’t come soon enough!”

Eli Tomac joins Monster Energy Star Yamaha Racing
Eli Tomac joins Monster Energy Star Yamaha Racing

The Monster Energy Star Yamaha Racing 450 Team is fresh off of a great debut in the premier class. After a solid start in the Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship with all three riders earning their first 450SX podium and finishing comfortably inside the top-10 in the standings, the team had a stellar Lucas Oil Pro Motocross season.

In addition to Ferrandis securing the title a weekend early, Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. earned Manufacturer of the Year honors, and the Monster Energy Star Yamaha Racing Team was named Team of the Year. The series also awarded Jeremy Coker Team Manager of the Year and the 450 Mechanic of the Year went to Ferrandis’ mechanic, Alex Campbell.

Jeremy Coker – Monster Energy Star Yamaha Racing 450 Team Manager

“We’re really happy to have Eli on board next season. He is a proven championship contender and an incredible athlete. Together with Dylan and then Christian joining us for the outdoor season, we have a great line-up and look to be fighting up front for the number-one plate in both championships. This year was a great first year in the premier class for the team and an absolutely incredible Pro Motocross season. We look to build on that and are really excited for the 2022 season.”

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Husqvarna and Jason Anderson part ways after seven years

Husqvarna Motorcycles thanked Jason Anderson for his hard work, commitment, and racing achievements during the last seven years, as following a highly successful relationship with Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing, the American’s time with the team has now drawn to a close.

Jason Anderson - 2021 AMA SX Round 17 - Image by Jeff Kardas
Jason Anderson – 2021 AMA SX Round 17 – Image by Jeff Kardas

Since joining Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing in 2015 to compete on FC 450 machinery in the 450 class, Jason Anderson has entered each AMA Supercross and Pro Motocross season as a genuine title contender.

The highlight of Anderson’s time with Rockstar Energy Husqvarna came in 2018 when he was crowned 450SX champion. The victory marked the first 450 supercross title for Husqvarna Motorcycles with Jason’s performances and championship result also making a notable contribution to the brand’s international standing, as well as adding to their now 106 World Championship wins. During his time with Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Jason won seven 450SX Main Events and claimed 27 podium finishes.

Jason Anderson - 2021 AMA SX Round 2 - Image by Jeff Kardas
Jason Anderson – 2021 AMA SX Round 2 – Image by Jeff Kardas

Further success was achieved outdoors in the 450 Pro Motocross series, with Anderson claiming 16 overall podium results and a career-best championship finish of fourth in 2019. Outside of racing in America, Anderson won multiple Australian Supercross Championship races and represented Team USA at the FIM Motocross of Nations on two occasions.

Stephen Westfall – Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing Team Manager

“It’s been an honour to have worked with such a talented and committed racer like Jason. His dedication and talent, together with his willingness to always put the work in, ensured he was always the best rider he could be. It’s unfortunate that his time with the team coincides with him being injured as he was showing some great speed early on in the Pro Motocross season. On behalf of Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing, I wish Jason well and look forward to seeing him at the races in the future.”

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Monster Energy Kawasaki welcome Anderson to the team

Jason Anderson will join Adam Cianciarulo with the Monster Energy Kawasaki race team for 2022, alongside testing and development rider Broc Tickle.

Monster Energy Kawasaki to run Anderson and Cianciarulo in 2022
Monster Energy Kawasaki to run Anderson and Cianciarulo in 2022

Anderson closed out his amateur racing career with Kawasaki Team Green, winning the AMA Horizon Award aboard a KX250 before moving on to become a 250 Supercross West Champion, now reunited with Kawasaki, Anderson is prepared to repeat his former success and fight for premier class supremacy in both the AMA Supercross and AMA Pro Motocross Championships.

Jason Anderson – Monster Energy Kawasaki Race Team

“It’s great to join the Monster Energy Kawasaki race team for 2022. I’m ready to start working with the team to have a successful run right out of the gate when we go racing in January. The bike is proven, and the many accolades of the team speak volumes to what we can achieve together. I’m looking forward to the good times ahead.”

Meanwhile, Cianciarulo hopes to see his record-setting amateur years with the Kawasaki Team Green race team and success underneath the Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki team awning reach a culmination in 2022 with his goal of championship contention in the upcoming year of premier class racing.

Building from his AMA Pro Motocross Rookie of the Year honors that came along with second place in the 2020 450MX Pro Motocross standings, Cianciarulo led 51 laps during the 2021 season and secured three overall podiums. Cianciarulo now looks to capitalize on a full off-season of development with the team to claim the top step of the podium in 2022.

Adam Cianciarulo – Monster Energy Kawasaki Race Team

“I’m ready for the 2022 season. I’ve had a lot of great experiences in my first two seasons with the team. We have made major strides together and are positioned to perform at our very best in this upcoming year of racing. I look forward to continuing to improve and reaching our goals together.”

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2022 Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki team roster breaks cover

With the 2022 racing season marking nearly three decades of success, the Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki race team has revealed five-rider lineup for the upcoming season. The team will field the established Austin Forkner, Cameron McAdoo, Jo Shimoda and 2021 Monster Energy AMA Supercross Rookie of the Year, Seth Hammaker. Kawasaki also welcomes long-time Team Green amateur rising star Jett Reynolds to the fold as he graduates into the pro ranks.

Austin Forkner
Austin Forkner

As one of the most successful teams in the paddock, Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki boasts an resume that includes the most combined supercross and motocross wins in the 250 class and 29 total championships.

Mitch Payton – Pro Circuit Owner

“We have a skilled group of riders on the team for the 2022 season. With seasoned riders like Austin, Cameron, and Jo returning, last year’s rookie sensation Seth ready to begin his sophomore season and Jett making his pro debut; we are in a good spot to compete for both 250 West and East Supercross titles. Everyone on the team including riders, staff and personnel, are preparing for the new season to begin and we expect to finish on top of the podium.”

Returning for a seventh season with the Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki squad in 2022 is Austin Forkner. The 12-time 250 Class race winner has high hopes to return to his winning ways this season after his promising 2021 supercross title campaign was cut short due to injury.

Cameron McAdoo
Cameron McAdoo

McAdoo is also back under the Kawasaki tent for the upcoming season. Coming off a career-best season in 2021 that saw McAdoo collect his first AMA 250 Supercross win, the Iowa native is keen on improving his third-place finish in the Supercross 250 West Championship point standings.

Back for his second year with the Kawasaki team is Shimoda. Building on a stand-out 2021 season, the Japanese-born rider secured a career-first 250SX Class win along with six podiums last season and appears ready to use his experience running up front to mount a championship fight.

Jo Shimoda
Jo Shimoda

Entering his sophomore season, Hammaker returns to the Kawasaki squad with his first career 250SX Class win and three AMA Supercross podiums under his belt. Last year’s rookie stand out heads into the new season with expectations to battle for race wins and podiums.

Seth Hammaker
Seth Hammaker

Making his professional debut with the Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki team is Reynolds. Carrying nine AMA Amateur National titles and the 2017 Monster Energy Cup Supermini Class championship, Reynolds is set to make an immediate impact for the team in both series at the beginning of the 2022 season.

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Rallye du Maroc returns in 2021!

With the 2020 edition cancelled due to the global pandemic, it has been two years since the Rallye du Maroc has been held in the Kingdom of His Majesty Mohammed VI. From 7 to 13 October, housed in a bivouac outside Zagora, the race returns to the desert. Hand in hand, the Moroccan authorities, ODC Events and their local partners have put all their energy into making the running of the rally possible.

David Castera

“Each year, the Rallye du Maroc takes on ever more importance in the country. It is no longer simply a case of us organising an event on our own, with permission from the Moroccan authorities. The Rallye du Maroc is now the fruit of a common enterprise, the will and help of the authorities, partners such as Maroc Telecom, Afriquia or OCP, and the tourism industry, right down to the small businesses and service providers who are close to us on the ground, happy and proud to be working again. A strong relationship between us has been forged in this very special context. This edition will be one of resilience for us all.”

Rallye du Maroc Toby Price
Rallye du Maroc 2019 – Toby Price

As a reward for the efforts made over the last few weeks by all involved in resurrecting the Rallye du Maroc, the number of entrants expected at administrative and technical scrutineering on Thursday 7 October will break all records. 160 bikes and 100 cars are expected to arrive at the bivouac in Zagora next week eclipsing previous figures.

All the official teams are present and 27 riders are registered in RallyGP, while there are no less than 99 in Rally2.

In RallyGP, we see the best drivers in the cross-country discipline. KTM’s Matthias Walkner leads the provisional classification of the 2021 FIM Cross-Country Rallies World Championship and is joined in Morocco by the current FIM World Champion Sam Sunderland, Toby Price and Kevin Benavides.

Yamaha has entered Rally Kazakhstan winner Ross Branch, Adrien Van Beveren and Andrew Short.

Husqvarna, meanwhile, will run machines for Luciano Benavides and Skyler Howes, while Daniel Sanders rides for Gas-Gas.

Honda will participate in its first rally of the season with Pablo Quintanilla, Ricky Brabec, Nacho Cornejo and Joan Barreda. Hero will also be present with Franco Caimi, Sebastian Bühler and Joachim Rodrigues, while Sherco lines up with Lorenzo Santolino, Rui Gonçalves and Harith Noah.

Two Juniors will also be in the starting blocks in RallyGP: Konrad Dabrowski (KTM) and Tomas de Gavardo (KTM).

Between the competitors, their entourage and the organisation, the 2021 Rallye du Maroc caravan will number 850 people, housed for almost ten days in the ephemeral bivouac of Zagora.

David Castera

“If I had asked for such a bivouac in France or anywhere else in the world, people would have thought I was insane,. The know-how of the nomads and their capacity to adapt is phenomenal. Nothing is impossible, the answer to every question is always ‘machi moushkil’, literally ‘no problem’. And they always manage to pull it off, sometimes really incredible feats. The Rallye du Maroc no longer simply bears the name of a country, but that of its people, who share with us the values of solidarity and pushing one’s limits that have always been intrinsic to rally-raid.”

2021 FIM Cross-Country Rallies World Championship Standings

Pos Rider Man. Points
1 Mathias Walkner KTM 58
2 Gregorio Caselani Honda 38
3 Skyler Howes Husqvarna 36
4 Daniel Sanders Gas Gas 33
5 Franco Caimi Hero 32
6 Adrien Van Beveren Yamaha 31
7 Ross Branch Yamaha 25
8 Sebastian Bühler Hero 24
9 Luciano Benavides Husqvarna 24
10 Andrew Short Yamaha 23
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Charlotte Half-Mile set for AFT finale

Following 15 fiercely fought Progressive American Flat Track rounds, the season-ending Honda Charlotte Half-Mile will determine the 2021 Grand National Championship under the lights at the Dirt Track at Charlotte Motor Speedway on Friday, October 8.

Briar Bauman
Briar Bauman

As they arrive in Charlotte, North Carolina, reigning two-time Mission SuperTwins presented by S&S Cycle champion Briar Bauman (No. 1 Indian Motorcycle/Progressive Insurance FTR750) and living legend Jared Mees (No. 9 Indian Motorcycle/Progressive Insurance FTR750) are separated by just four points. That means both factory Indian stars are in position to secure the 2021 crown from the top step of the podium, simple as that.

It gets a bit more complicated should another rider play the spoiler and steal away the victory. Should that happen, Mees’ slight lead earned on the strength of an active four-race win streak provides him an advantage in that he could still take the title by finishing close behind Bauman on track.

Considering their combined ability, winning percentage, and motivation, it may seem unlikely that another rider is able to elbow ahead with so much on the line, but Brandon Robinson (No. 44 Mission Roof Systems Indian FTR750) managed to do just that (twice) in last year’s similarly tight DAYTONA finale.

Jared Mees
Jared Mees

The scenario of a title-shifting upset just became that much more realistic with the news that Jeffrey Carver, Jr. (No. 23 Happy Trails Racing/DPC/KullyCo/Bigelow Indian FTR750) has been added to the entry list. As a reminder, in last year’s late-season battle in Charlotte, Bauman and Mees traded the lead back and forth until privateer Carver shot past them both en route to a huge win. A repeat effort could literally decide which bike the #1 plate is brandished upon in 2022.

The field is stocked with potential spoilers, including Sammy Halbert (No. 69 Coolbeth-Nila Racing Indian FTR750), Jarod Vanderkooi (No. 20 Mission Roof Systems Indian FTR750), Brandon Price (No. 92 Mission Roof Systems Indian FTR750) and JD Beach (No. 95 Estenson Racing Yamaha MT-07 DT).

AFT Singles

The 2021 AFT Singles championship will be determined in Charlotte as well. While there doesn’t appear to be much room for drama as in the premier class, if second-ranked Max Whale (No. 18 Red Bull KTM Factory Racing 450 SX-FFE) manages to dethrone defending class champ Dallas Daniels (No. 1 Estenson Racing Yamaha YZ450F), you can bet some serious drama went down.

Max Whale - 2021 AFT Sacramento Mile II
Max Whale – 2021 AFT Sacramento Mile II

With 20 points and the tiebreaker working in his favor, Daniels merely needs to finish 13th or better in the Main even if Australian Whale wins. And if Whale doesn’t win, Daniels doesn’t need to do anything but collect his trophy.

Morgen Mischler (No. 13 Mission Roof Systems KTM 450 SX-F) is nearly as safe in third with Daniels’ teammate, Mikey Rush (No. 15 Estenson Racing Yamaha YZ450F), 18 points back in fourth.

Last year’s race at Charlotte Motor Speedway was a classic, with Daniels clinching the title thanks to a last-lap pass for victory over Mischler. Whale finished fourth, just 0.201 seconds back of the win, which sets the table nicely for another spectacular scrap on Friday night.

AFT Production Twins presented by Vance & Hines

Last season, Cory Texter (No. 65 G&G Racing/Roof Systems Yamaha MT-07) scored a holeshot-to-checkered flag win in Charlotte. The situation was considerably different, as Texter was desperate just to keep his slim 2020 AFT Production Twins presented by Vance & Hines title hopes alive at the time.

Cory Texter - 2021 AFT Sacramento Mile I
Cory Texter – 2021 AFT Sacramento Mile I

Now he comes into the finale having already locked down a second-career AFT Production Twins championship. That said, Texter is a racer’s racer and one making up for lost time spent as a long-time journeyman pilot. He’s unlikely to lack for motivation even with the title already taken care of.

Meanwhile, AFT Production Twins championship runner-up honors are still up for grabs with Chad Cose (No. 49 Voodoo Ranger/Roof Systems Harley-Davidson XG750R) nine points up on Dan Bromley (No. 62 Memphis Shades/Vinson Construction Yamaha MT-07) with one race to go.

The evening also presents one final chance for the likes of Ben Lowe (No. 25 Mission Roof Systems Harley-Davidson XG750R) and Jesse Janisch (No. 96 Vance & Hines Harley-Davidson XG750R) to get a win before the year is out.

As if that wasn’t enough, the Charlotte Half-Mile will also feature the season finale of Royal Enfield’s hugely popular BUILD. TRAIN. RACE. program and the penultimate round of the innovative Super Hooligan National Championship. BUILD. TRAIN. RACE. showcases the talent, versatility, competitiveness, and enthusiasm of female motorcyclists in its own action-packed style, while the outlaw-minded Super Hooligan series features customized heavy street bikes competing at a road race circuit, a Short Track, a Half-Mile and an asphalt oval to determine the nation’s most all-around skill heavy street bike racer.

The Honda Charlotte HM will also feature all the pomp and circumstance befitting a season finale off the track as well. NASCAR superstar Austin Dillon, driver of the No. 3 Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 1LE will serve as the evening’s Grand Marshal ahead of the weekend’s NASCAR doubleheader at Charlotte Motor Speedway.


Al-Balooshi wins 2021 Qatar International Baja

The UAE’s Mohammed Al-Balooshi sealed outright victory in the motorcycle category of the Qatar International Baja after the third desert selective section that was held in punishing heat on Saturday.

Mohammed Al-Balooshi
Mohammed Al-Balooshi

MX Ride Dubai’s Mohammed Al-Balooshi delivered a polished performance over the closing 249.68km selective section that started at Al-Kharsaah and included a tricky final passage through the sand dunes near the Inland Sea, south of Doha, where temperatures rose into the low forties Centigrade.

He completed the gruelling stage in just under nine minutes shy of five hours to seal a 10min 57sec victory over British youngster Robert Wallace in the motorcycle section. The latter’s consolation was sealing top spot in the FIM Juniors category.

Mohammed Al-Balooshi

“It was a very tough two stages but I am happy that we managed to bring the bike home and win this round of the FIM Bajas World Cup and extend our championship lead. I am a little bit disappointed that Abdullah Abuaisheh could not start because it is good to have your main rival competing. I thank him for letting me use his front wheel. I damaged mine. Now I will go to Portugal for the last round, which is double points. I started off with third in Dubai, a win in Jordan and a win here. But I have a torn ligament in my shoulder. I was nursing it home and managed to win. I probably only rode at 60 or 70%.”

The UK’s Andrew Newland rounded off the podium places and Kuwait’s Abdullah Al-Shatti overcame a fall to finish fourth. Richard Dors and Makis Rees-Stavros rode strongly on the final day to snatch fifth and sixth.

Unfortunately, x-rays confirmed Martin Chalmers’s worst fears and the Qatar-based Australian was forced to withdraw from the motorcycle event with two broken ankle bones and ligament damage. It was testament to his determination that he had completed the second stage in first position and managed to put his bike into Parc Ferme to restart, albeit with eight minutes of penalties later added to his time.

2021 Qatar International Baja Results

Pos Rider Nat. Man. Time
1 Mohammed Al-Balooshi ARE KTM 450 RR 9hr 25min 12sec
2 Robert Wallace GBR KTM 450 RR 9hr 36min 09sec
3 Andrew Newland GBR KTM EXC F 10hr 00min 49sec
4 Abdullah Al-Shatti KWT KTM 450 10hr 06min 52sec
5 Richard Dors GBR KTM 450 RR 10hr 41min 19sec
6 Makis Rees-Stavros GBR KTM 450 EXC-F 11hr 03min 04sec
7 Gennadii Korolenko RUS KTM EXC 450 11hr 34min 02sec
8 Edward Lines NZL KTM 450 RFR 11hr 36min 19sec
9 Sheikh Mohammed Al-Thani QAT Honda CRF 450 Rally R5 14hr 10min 54sec
10 Kurt Burroughs GBR KTM 450 Rally 14hr 42min 37sec

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Moto Wrap | AFT | TrialGP | SpeedwayGP | AMA MX | GNCC

Max Whale extends KTM contract in AFT until 2023

AFT Singles Championship contender Max Whale has signed a two-year deal to remain with the Red Bull KTM Factory Racing team through the 2023 American Flat Track Championship, after another successful season in 2021.

Max Whale – Image by Scott Hunter

In his fourth season in the class, the Aussie has established himself as a force in the AFT Singles division as he prepares to battle down to the wire for the coveted title, which is mathematically still up for grabs at the Charlotte Half-Mile finale next month. With four Main Event victories and four top-five finishes in his first season with the team, Whale continues to build on his solid platform aboard the KTM 450 SX-F FACTORY EDITION for the next two seasons.

Max Whale

“I am so pumped to sign a two-year extension with the Red Bull KTM Factory Racing Team. I’ve been having an awesome time this year with my team, racking up victories and points! I’m excited for the next two years of my career with the crew.”

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Australia finishes fourth in Team Speedway U21s

Three Australian speedway riders flew the national flag at the FIM Team Speedway Under 21 World Championship finale in Poland. Matthew Gilmore, Keynan Rew and Brayden McGuiness carried Australia’s hopes in Bydgoszcz, Poland, against some of the best speedway teams in the world, and missed out on a bronze medal by just a single point.

Team Poland won on home soil, Wiktor Lampart and Jakub Miśkowiak didn’t give any chance to their rivals. The podium was completed by the Danes and quite unexpectedly the British. The Team Junior World Championships final in Bydgoszcz was held in the format which fans know from Speedway of Nations.

Team Captain Matthew Gilmore

“It has been an konour to Captain “Team Australia” in the FIM Team Speedway U21 World Championship. It was great to ride along side Keynan and Brayden, we gave it our best and finished fourth in the world. Thanks go out to Aussie Team Manager Mark Lemon for all his organisation, advice and encouragement which was greatly appreciated by us Joeys. Thanks also to Motorcycling Australia for your ongoing support. To my sponsors, family, friends and followers that have supported me, thanks. It has been an absolute privilege to have the opportunity to represent Australia and I was fortunate to do so, Thanks again MGR. Craig Watson, GM Engines, Signworx Group, C4 Industries, LAR (Leigh Adams Racing), JTR, KLS Denmark, GM Australia, LKI Brand, Scott Brown Flooring & Chris Watson Motorcycles.”

Team Captain Matthew Gilmore
Team Captain Matthew Gilmore, Keynan Rew and Brayden McGuiness – Image: Facebook

Team Speedway U21s Results

  • I. Team Poland- 45
    7. Jakub Miśkowiak – 21+3 (0,4,3*,3*,4,3*,4)
    8. Wiktor Lampart – 24+2 (4,3*,4,4,3*,4,2)
    18. Mateusz Cierniak – NS
  • II. Team Denmark – 35
    3. Mads Hansen – 17+1 (4,4,d,-,4,2,3*)
    4. Tim Soerensen – 7+1 (2,-,2,3*,w,-)
    16. Marcus Birkemose – 11+1 (3*,4,4,0)
  • III. Team Great Britain – 27
    9. Tom Brennan – 20 (4,2,4,2,4,4)
    10. Drew Kemp – 5+1 (3*,0,2,-,-,d)
    19. Leon Flint – 2 (0,2)
  • IV. Team Australia – 26
    13. Matthew Gilmore – 9+1 (2,3*,0,2,2,0)
    14. Keynan Rew – 17 (3,4,3,0,4,3)
    21. Brayden McGuinness – NS
  • V. Team Czech Rep. – 23
    5. Daniel Klima – 5 (-,-,3,0,-,2)
    6. Jan Macek – 6 (3,0,-,-,0,3)
    17. Petr Chlupac – 12 (2,2,2,3,3)
  • VI. Team Latvia – 22
    1. Francis Gusts – 15 (3,4,4,4,w,0)
    2. Ricards Ansviesulis – 0 (0,-,0,-,-,-)
    15. Daniił Kołodinski – 7 (d,2,3,2)
  • VII. Team Sweden – 20
    11. Philip Hellstroem-Baengs – 14 (2,t,t,3,4,3,2)
    12. Alexander Woentin – 6 (0,2,-,2,2,-)
    20. Jonatan Grahn – 0 (0,0)
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Malcolm Steward joins Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing

The Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing Team and Malcolm Stewart have inked a two-year deal to join the team’s 450 efforts in both AMA Supercross World Championship and AMA Pro Motocross racing. The 28-year-old Florida native will pilot the FC 450 Rockstar Edition for the 2022 and 2023 race seasons, beginning on January 8 with the Anaheim SX season opener.

Malcolm Stewart

“I’m really excited to have a full indoor/outdoor deal that’s sealed for two years. It’s definitely a great opportunity for me and I think there’s nothing but positive vibes coming from me. I’ve always wanted to ride one of these Husqvarna motorcycles, I’ve seen everybody in the past do very well on it. We’ve been putting in the work this summer. Having a new training program going with Aldon Baker, I know there’s going to be a lot of big changes for me but I’m looking forward to it all. I’ve seen the successes that have happened through The Baker’s Factory and I want to be a part of those people, so I feel that this is a good opportunity for me in these next two years to go out there and do the best that I can.”

Malcolm Stewart
Malcolm Stewart – Image by Jeff Kardas

Fresh off his best-career Supercross season with sixth overall in 2021, the 2016 250SX East Champion earned his first 450SX podium at the penultimate round in Salt Lake City before finishing the year out strong with a top-five result. Now, with the Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing team behind him, Stewart looks to keep the momentum rolling as he prepares to attack both Supercross and Motocross for the first time since 2014.

“It’s been a while since I’ve done the outdoors but I feel like racing is racing – anytime the gate drops there’s no negative vibes and it’s always going to be a positive. You live and you learn something from it, so let’s just get ready because that #27 is going to be out there!”

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Marvin Musquin extends KTM contract through 2022 SX season

Marvin Musquin has locked in a deal to remain with the Red Bull KTM Factory Racing team through the 2022 AMA Supercross Championship. Entering his 12th season with the U.S. Red Bull KTM Factory Racing team in 2022, the French rider has become synonymous with the brand thanks to his top level of performance and commitment within the sport.

Marvin Musquin

Enjoying success at the last two rounds of the 2021 AMA Supercross Championship, the 31-year-old has proven that he still has plenty to give as he charges full-steam ahead towards a career-first 450SX title come January.

Marvin Musquin

“I’m really happy to extend my contract for another year making 12 years racing in the U.S. and 14 years in total with the with the Red Bull KTM family! It’s no secret that everyone on the team is like family to me. It will be another fun challenge working with the new bike, which will be a lot more work but that’s exciting! I look forward to focusing my efforts on the Supercross series and to the Supercross schedule being back to normal starting back at Anaheim in January!”

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2021 Speedway of Nations semi-finale squads confirmed

The national squads for the 2021 Monster Energy FIM Speedway of Nations have been revealed. The competition gets underway with the Semi-Finals at Latvian venue Daugavpils on September 17 and 18.

Poland face off against Sweden, Denmark, the Czech Republic, Finland, Slovenia and the USA in Semi-Final 1 on Friday, September 17, with hosts Latvia taking on MFR, Australia, Germany, France, Italy and the Ukraine in Semi-Final 2 on Saturday, September 18.

Team Australia at the 2020 Speedway of Nations

Each country must list a squad of two or three senior riders, plus one or two under-21s, before naming their final starting line-up next week, featuring two seniors and one under-21.

World champion Bartosz Zmarzlik has been named in Poland’s squad ahead of Semi-Final 1, with Maciej Janowski returning to the group after missing the 2020 tournament.

Last year’s under-21 star Dominik Kubera is handed a dream call-up to complete the list of seniors, having reached both Orlen Lublin FIM Speedway Grand Prix of Poland finals on a sensational SGP debut weekend last month.

Lublin star Wiktor Lampart and Czestochowa racer Jakub Miskowiak are Poland’s under-21 options as team manager Rafal Dobrucki names his first SON squad since taking charge of his country.

The Danes name SGP stars Leon Madsen and Anders Thomsen in their senior spots, along with European champion Mikkel Michelsen.

2020 Speedway of Nations
Speedway of Nations

FIM Speedway Under-21 World Championship leader Mads Hansen and Jonas Seifert-Salk serve as their under-21s.

World No.3 Fredrik Lindgren leads the Swedish selections and he is joined by double Swedish champion Jacob Thorssell and 2021 Swedish Championship runner-up Pontus Aspgren.

Team manager Morgan Andersson names Philip Hellstrom-Bangs and Alexander Woentin as his under-21s.

Vaclav Milik leads the Czech list and he is joined by veteran Josef Franc and Prague prospect Daniel Klima. Anlas Czech SGP wild card Jan Kvech and Petr Chlupac are their under-21 options.

American shooting star Luke Becker is in the USA squad, alongside Broc Nicol and Dillon Ruml. Blake Borello and Anthony Dion are their under-21s.

Matic Ivacic leads the Slovenian line-up alongside former World Under-21 finalist Nick Skorja. Anze Grmek is their sole under-21 rider in a three-man squad.

The Finns select Timo Lahti, Tero Aarnio and Jesse Mustonen as their senior stars, with Timi Salonen and Roni Niemela their under-21s.

Hosts Latvia take to the shale in Semi-Final 2 on Saturday, September 18, with former European champion Andzejs Lebedevs named in their squad, alongside fellow 2021 GP Challenge finalist Jevgenijs Kostigovs and last year’s World Under-21 Final bronze medallist Olegs Mihailovs.

Monster Energy FIM Speedway of Nations scoring changes
FIM Speedway of Nations

Current World Under-21 finalists Francis Gusts and Daniils Kolodinskis are their junior stars.

MFR are without their triple world title-winning pair Emil Sayfutdinov and Artem Laguta, with Sergei Logachev and Vladimir Borodulin representing the reigning champions.

Lublin rider Mark Karion is their sole under-21 as team manager Tatiana Savina names a three-man squad.

Australian team manager Mark Lemon has selected 2017 world champion Jason Doyle, along with SGP 2022 qualifier Max Fricke and Jack Holder. Young guns Keynan Rew and World Under-21 finalist Matthew Gilmore are in line for the under-21 position.

Former SGP regular Martin Smolinski and Kai Huckenbeck team up for Germany and they are joined by under-21 Nick Blodorn in a three-man squad.

The French select Masarna colleagues David Bellego and Dimitri Berge, with World Under-21 finalist Steven Goret named as their under-21 rider on a three-man list.

SGP first reserve Aleksandr Loktaev is nominated by the Ukraine alongside Vitalii Lisak and Stanislav Melnychuk. Their under-21 riders are Marko Levishyn and Andryi Rozaliuk.

The Italians complete the field for Semi-Final 2 and they name Nicolas Covatti, Paco Castagna and Nicolas Vicentin in their squad. Michele Menani is their sole under-21 selection.

The top two teams from each Semi-Final automatically join hosts Great Britain in the Monster Energy SON Final in Manchester on October 16 and 17.

The third and fourth-placed teams in both of the Daugavpils rounds will then compete in the Final Qualifier at the end of each night for the two remaining places in the Final, where the 2021 Monster Energy SON world champion will be crowned.

MONSTER ENERGY SON SEMI-FINAL SQUADS (in draw order):
SEMI-FINAL 1 – FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 17

  • TEAM A – USA
    • 1. Broc Nicol
    • 2. Luke Becker
    • 3. Dillon Ruml
    • U21 1. Blake Borello
    • U21 2. Anthony Dion
    • Team Manager: Steve Evans
  • TEAM B – POLAND
    • 1. Maciej Janowski
    • 2. Dominik Kubera
    • 3. Bartosz Zmarzlik
    • U21 1. Wiktor Lampart
    • U21 2. Jakub Miskowiak
    • Team Manager: Rafal Dobrucki
  • TEAM C – CZECH REPUBLIC
    • 1. Vaclav Milik
    • 2. Josef Franc
    • 3. Daniel Klima
    • U21 1. Jan Kvech
    • U21 2. Petr Chlupac
    • Team Manager: Filip Sitera
  • TEAM D – DENMARK
    • 1. Leon Madsen
    • 2. Mikkel Michelsen
    • 3. Anders Thomsen
    • U21 1. Mads Hansen
    • U21 2. Jonas Seifert-Salk
    • Team Manager: Hans Nielsen
  • TEAM E – SLOVENIA
    • 1. Matic Ivacic
    • 2. Nick Skorja
    • U21 1. Anze Grmek
    • Team Manager: Gregor Arnsek
  • TEAM F – SWEDEN
    • 1. Fredrik Lindgren
    • 2. Pontus Aspgren
    • 3. Jacob Thorssell
    • U21 1. Philip Hellstrom-Bangs
    • U21 2. Alexander Woentin
    • Team Manager: Morgan Andersson
  • TEAM G – FINLAND
    • 1. Timo Lahti
    • 2. Tero Aarnio
    • 3. Jesse Mustonen
    • U21 1. Timi Salonen
    • U21 2. Roni Niemela
    • Team Manager: Jyri Palomaki

SEMI-FINAL 2 – SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18

  • TEAM A – ITALY
    • 1. Nicolas Covatti
    • 2. Paco Castagna
    • 3. Nicolas Vicentin
    • U21 1. Michele Menani
    • Team Manager: Alessandro Dalla Valle
  • TEAM B – AUSTRALIA
    • 1. Jason Doyle
    • 2. Max Fricke
    • 3. Jack Holder
    • U21 1. Keynan Rew
    • U21 2. Matthew Gilmore
    • Team Manager: Mark Lemon
  • TEAM C – UKRAINE
    • 1. Aleksandr Loktaev
    • 2. Vitalii Lisak
    • 3. Stanislav Melnychuk
    • U21 1. Marko Levishyn
    • U21 2. Andryi Rozaliuk
    • Team Manager: Sergey Lyatosinskyy
  • TEAM D – MFR
    • 1. Sergei Logachev
    • 2. Vladimir Borodulin
    • U21 1. Mark Karion
    • Team Manager: Tatiana Savina
  • TEAM E – LATVIA
    • 1. Andzejs Lebedevs
    • 2. Jevgenijs Kostigovs
    • 3. Olegs Mihailovs
    • U21 1. Francis Gusts
    • U21 2. Daniils Kolodinskis
    • Team Manager: Vladimir Ribnikovs
  • TEAM F – GERMANY
    • 1. Kai Huckenbeck
    • 2. Martin Smolinski
    • U21 1. Nick Blodorn
    • Team Manager: Herbert Rudolph
  • TEAM G – FRANCE
    • 1. David Bellego
    • 2. Dimitri Berge
    • U21 1. Steven Goret
    • Team Manager: Laurent Sambarrey
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Motoland teams up with Motorcycling Queensland

Queensland’s newest motocross destination, Motoland is teaming up with the state’s governing body for motorcycle sport and recreation – Motorcycling Queensland. In a first for motocross in Queensland and one of the first in Australia, a private entity will align with the state controlling body, and a local motocross club, to deliver a motocross destination – located at the historic Tivoli Raceway site near Ipswich.

Todd Waters, laid the first tracks at Motoland yesterday, to offer feedback in the final stages of the build
Todd Waters, laid the first tracks at Motoland yesterday, to offer feedback in the final stages of the build

The purpose of the alliance is to not only create an incredible facility for the benefit of south-east Queenslanders, but also to drive motocross participation and grass-roots competition in the region.

In addition to three brand new tracks, designed to cater for all skill levels, Motoland’s facilities off the track, promise to be the best in the region. The park will boast multiple raised viewing areas, quality toilets and amenities and a brand new cafe and retail space. Bailey reiterated, that at Motoland, the consumer experience off the track, will be as important as the one on it.

Details of Motoland’s operating times, pricing and booking information will be provided in the coming weeks, with an official open day expected to be announced for the early stages of October. To register for your chance to be one of the first to ride Motoland, go to www.motoland.com.au.

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Toni Bou leaves Spanish TrialGP one-point off title

Repsol Honda Team rider Toni Bou rode to a fine victory in Pobladura de las Regueras, León, in the seventh round of the TrialGP World Championship.

The course of this seventh event of the elite trial competition played out over varied terrain with river areas offering little grip and indoor-style areas featuring logs and stones, with riders having to complete two laps of the twelve-section course.

Repsol Honda Team rider Toni Bou dominated the first of the double-date event in Pobladura de las Regueras with an excellent showing, finishing with a total of sixteen marks, twenty less than the nearest second-placed rider, arch rival Adam Raga. Bou continues to lead the overall TrialGP World Championship standings, currently fourteen points clear of the second-placed adversary.

Bou also won for the second day running in the trial at Pobladura de las Regueras, León, to secure a sixth win of the season. Bou increased his lead in the championship standings to 19 points. Fujinami finished seventh.

Toni Bou
Toni Bou

As had been expected, Toni Bou had to struggle somewhat at the trial in Pobladura de las Regueras today. Opponent Jaime Busto put the pressure on the champion and it wasn’t until the very final sections that the event swung in favour of the Repsol Honda Team rider. With the triumph, the sixth of the season, Toni Bou increases the gap at the head of the overall championship, now holding a 19-point lead over second-placed rider Adam Raga. Bou needs just a single point next Saturday to be crowned 2021TrialGP champion.

The final event of the 2021 Trial World Championship will be held next Saturday in Gouveia, Portugal. The following day, Sunday 19, the Trial of Nations is scheduled to take place in the same Portuguese town.

Toni Bou

“We battled hard throughout the trial. I made a mistake in section 8 and I knew that section 11 would be my last chance, I took a gamble and it worked out well. Winning in the final sections is an incredible feeling. I want to congratulate Jaime Busto because he was really strong, not just today but all weekend and I think this is very good for trial. There will be a great final battle with Adam Raga. This is very nice and adds more value to the wins. I’m 19 points ahead in the general standings, but before the last race in Portugal anything could happen. This week I will have to be careful and for the final race we will have to be very focused so that we don’t have any mechanical issues or anything that could prevent us from winning the world championship.”

Toni Bou topped the Spanish TrialGP podium from
Toni Bou topped the Spanish TrialGP podium from Busto and Raga

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Husqvarna FS 450 hones its competitive edge for 2022

2022 Husqvarna FS 450


Husqvarna have revealed an updated FS 450 supermoto for 2022, offering an all-new Brembo hydraulic clutch system, alongside a new colour scheme, while carrying across the existing high spec’ platform seen before. The updated bike is currently expected to arrive in Australia in November.

2022 Husqvarna FS 450
The 2022 Husqvarna FS 450 receives a new Brembo hydraulic clutch system

The new Brembo hydraulic system is claimed to offer improved clutch action and control, alongside the Suter slipper clutch which is designed with supermoto style drifting in mind.

The new addition in 2022 is the Brembo hydraulic clutch system
The new addition in 2022 is the Brembo hydraulic clutch system

The heart of the FS 450 is a SOHC single-cylinder powerplant which weighs just 27.3 kg and produces 63 horsepower. The camshaft is kept close to the centre of gravity, aiding handling agility, with lightweight valves actuated by a rocker arm and timing focused on torque and responsiveness.

The aluminium cylinder runs a 95 mm bore to the 63.4 mm stroke, alongside a CP forged bridged-box-type piston weighing 320 g. Compression is 12.75:1 and fueling via a Keihin EFI with 44 mm throttle-body. Helping save weight is high pressure die-cast crankcases, with thin walls without sacrificing strength.

2022 Husqvarna FS 450
On the 2022 Husqvarna FS 450 styling is also updated with new livery

The gearbox is produced by Pankl Racing Systems and is a five speed unit with integrated gear sensor, tied into specific engine maps for each gear. A map switch activates launch control when pressed in conjunction with the TC button, as well as selecting between two maps, with traction control switchable between on and off.

A vulcanised right grip also features an integrated throttle mechanism, with easy free play adjustment and a swappable cam, so throttle progression can be altered.

2022 Husqvarna FS 450
The 2022 Husqvarna FS 450 produces 63 horsepower and weighs just 103 kg without fuel

The stock exhaust system includes a flow designed resonance chamber integrated into the header pipe, with a compact silencer in aluminium helping minimise weight. However there’s also a full Akrapovič Evolution Line titanium exhaust available as seen in some of the action shots, as well as a FMF Factory 4.1 RCT silencer and Megabomb header combo, for those looking for more power, less weight and more bark.

The 2022 Husqvarna FS 450 runs a chromium molybdenum steel frame
The 2022 Husqvarna FS 450 runs a chromium molybdenum steel frame

On the chassis side of things, the FS 450 runs a chromium molybdenum steel frame tuned for longitudinal and torsional flex characteristics for maximum feel, feedback and stability, while also running frame protectors as standard. The frame also incorporates cooling system routing, helping reduce hoses for the high strength aluminium radiators.

2022 Husqvarna FS 450
2022 Husqvarna FS 450

The sub-frame in comparison is a carbon-fibre unit, made in two pieces and weighing just over 1 kg, while a hollow cast swingarm also contributes to the overall low weight. The FS 450 is only 103 kg without fuel.

Suspension is provided by WP, with XACT fork and shock, with a split-air fork offering preload, compression and rebound adjustability. A pump for adjusting the fork’s air pressure is standard with the bike. Holding the forks is a set of CNC machined triple-clamps, with standard protector on the lowers. Four-way handlebar adjustment is also included, with ProTaper bars fitted, as well as handguards.

WP provide the XACT suspension on the 2022 Husqvarna FS 450
WP provide the XACT suspension on the 2022 Husqvarna FS 450

At the rear the XACT rear shock is fully adjustable and run via a linkage, with 266 mm travel compared to 285 mm on the front.

Wheels are Alpina spoked units, with a 16.5-in front and 17-in rear, running Bridgestone rubber as standard, with a 125/80 front and 165/65 rear slick for maximum grip.

Wheels on the 2022 Husqvarna FS 450 are Alpina spoked units with Bridgestone slicks, and Brembo provide the brakes
Wheels on the 2022 Husqvarna FS 450 are Alpina spoked units with Bridgestone slicks, and Brembo provide the brakes

Brakes are, like the clutch hydraulic system, provided by Brembo, with a 310 mm front rotor with four-piston radial caliper, while the rear runs a 220 mm rear rotor with single-piston caliper.

Other features include an air filter accessible without tools via the left side panel, and provided by Twin Air, while a seven litre fuel tank includes a threaded filler cap.

2022 Husqvarna FS 450
2022 Husqvarna FS 450

Bodywork as mentioned features new livery, with less yellow and more blue, including a flat high-grip seat, easy movement on the bike thanks to slim design and of course overall comfort. Seat height is 890 mm.

The 2022 FS 450 will be available in limited numbers in Australia and New Zealand from November 2021 in authorised Husqvarna Motorcycles dealerships. The FS450 is not suitable for road registration.

2022 Husqvarna FS 450 highlights

  • New Brembo hydraulic clutch system
  • Mid-valve damping provides consistent fork performance
  • Low-friction linkage seals for smoother shock action
  • High-grip seat cover texture for exceptional comfort and control
  • 22 mm front wheel axle for improved fork response
  • Engine – 63 hp and only 27.3 kg
  • Frame – perfect flex characteristics, advanced rider feedback
  • Carbon fibre composite subframe – lightweight and robust
  • Swingarm – optimal stiffness and reliability in a lightweight construction
  • WP XACT front fork – progressive and consistent damping
  • WP XACT rear shock – 266 mm wheel travel
  • Black 16.5”/17” Alpina spoked wheels and
  • Bridgestone slick tyres – top-level performance
  • Bodywork – distinctive looks with a functional, modern design
  • ProTaper handlebar – class-leading function and style
  • Launch control – maximum traction for perfect starts
  • High performance Brembo brakes

2022 Husqvarna FS 450 Specifications

ENGINE
Engine type Single cylinder, 4-stroke
Displacement  449.9 ccm
Bore/stroke  95/63.4 mm
Compression ratio 12,75:1
Starter/battery Electric starter / Lithium Ion 12,8V 2Ah
Transmission 5 gears
Fuel system Keihin EFI, throttle body 44 mm
Control 4 V / SOHC with rocker levers
Lubrication Pressure lubrication with 2 oil pumps
Gear ratios 16:32  18:30  20:28  22:26  24:24  –
Primary ratio 31:76
Final drive 14:45
Cooling Liquid cooling
Clutch SUTER anti-hopping, Brembo hydraulics
Ignition / Engine Management Keihin EMS
CHASSIS
Frame Central double-cradle-type 25CrMo4      steel
Subframe Carbon fibre reinforced polyamide
Handlebar ProTaper, Aluminium Ø 28/22 mm
Front suspension WP XACT-USD, Ø 48 mm
Rear suspension WP XACT Monoshock with linkage
Suspension travel front/rear 285/266 mm
Front/rear brakes Disc brake Ø 310/220 mm Brembo
Front/rear rims 3.5 x 16.5″; 5 x 17″ Alpina 
Front/rear tyres 125/600 R16.5; 165/630 R17 
Chain 5/8 x 1/4″
Silencer Aluminium
Steering head angle 63.9°
Triple clamp offset 16 mm
Wheel base 1,461 ± 10 mm
Ground clearance 290 mm
Seat height 890 mm
Tank capacity, approx. 7 l
Weight, without fuel, approx. 103 kg

Source: MCNews.com.au

Moto News | WMX | MXGP | Hard Enduro | SGP | AORC | ProMX

Jed Beaton P5 in MX2 at Lommel

Coming into round six of the MX2 World Championship, Jed Beaton was in great form following podium appearances and solid results in recent weeks. In Belgium, the Australian’s strong speed continued with an eighth-place finish in race one despite a small crash around the halfway stage of the moto.

Jed Beaton – 2021 MXGP of Flanders-Belgium – Round 6

In race two, Beaton started eighth and moved into fifth as the moto reached half distance. The 23-year-old then engaged in a battle for position with Conrad Mewse, ultimately coming out on top to claim fifth in the moto and secure his third consecutive top-five overall finish.

Jed Beaton

“Today was a little bit of a bad day, but if I can take fifth overall on a bad day then it’s not so bad. I was fortunate in race one to miss a big crash just after the start but then while sixth I crashed on my own and fell way down the field. I got back to eighth which was ok though. My start in race two wasn’t so good and by the time I got into fifth the leaders were gone. It was unfortunate but fifth was good and solid points overall so all things considered, I’m happy with today.”

Bike It MTX Kawasaki’s Wilson Todd had a tough introduction to the deep Lommel sand. A respectable thirteenth in Qualifying, the Australian charged from twenty-third to fifteenth during the first half of race one before being forced out.

Wilson Todd – 2021 MXGP of Flanders-Belgium – Round 6

A lightning start in race two saw him round turn one in the top six but the joy did not last long as a fall at turn three put him at the back of the field; he bravely persisted to the end to finish twenty-third despite two further falls. He is now thirteenth in the series points standings.

MX2 Race 1

In the first MX2 race, it was Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Tom Vialle who grabbed the Fox Holeshot, though it was Monster Energy Yamaha Factory Racing’s Maxime Renaux who led the way.

Tom Vialle – 2021 MXGP of Flanders-Belgium – Round 6

Red Bull KTM Factory Racing rider Mattia Guadagnini had an unlucky start to the race as he crashed in the first corner and had to re-join the race way behind the rest of the pack. Eventually the Italian was able to fight back to 14th place.

Hitachi KTM Fuelled by Milwaukee rider Conrad Mewse got off to a great start in the race as he was running behind Renaux, Vialle and Geerts, though by the second lap he crashed and was unable to carry on due to a bike issue.

Kay de Wolf – 2021 MXGP of Flanders-Belgium – Round 6

Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s Kay De Wolf started the race down in around 10th place, while his teammate Jed Beaton was fighting sixth place. By the following lap Beaton dropped to 12th, while De Wolf was able to make a couple of nice passes to get into eighth.

Vialle also crashed in the beginning stages of the race as Renaux continued to lead Geerts who was keeping close.

Jago Geerts – 2021 MXGP of Flanders-Belgium – Round 6

De Wolf continued his charge up the field after making passes on F&H Kawasaki Racing’s Mikkel Haarup and Mathys Boisrame, while Vialle took third from Honda 114 Motorsports rider Ruben Fernandez.

At one point, De Wolf and Vialle were the two fastest riders on the track, setting very similar lap times. By lap seven De Wolf caught onto Fernandez to take fourth and then just under three laps later he was also ahead of Vialle as he got himself into third position.

Maxime Renaux – 2021 MXGP of Flanders-Belgium – Round 6

Renaux continued to lead the race keeping Geerts at bay until lap 10. The Frenchman crashed which allowed Geerts through. Luckily, the pair was so far ahead that Renaux was still able to finish the race second, as Geerts took the win and De Wolf finished third. Jed Beaton finished eighth.

MX2 Race 2

In race two, it was De Wolf who was flying into the first corner and took the second Fox Holeshot of the races. He led the race immediately with Geerts and Thibault Benistant of Monster Energy Yamaha Factory Racing, Renaux and Mewse just behind.

Maxime Renaux – 2021 MXGP of Flanders-Belgium – Round 6

Geerts then got Benistant for second as Renaux struggled for a few laps to do the same. Meanwhile, Vialle started the race in sixth place though crashed lap two and dropped down to 10th.

After making several attempts, Renaux was finally able to get Benistant for third at lap five, by which point De Wolf and Geerts were already quite far ahead as the two leaders kept a steady gap, setting very similar lap times.

T Benistant – 2021 MXGP of Flanders-Belgium – Round 6

At one point, Mewse started to close in on Renaux and Benistant as it looked like the Brit was going to push for higher positions, though he started to fade a little towards the end of the race to eventually finish in sixth position. Beaton was one of the riders who passed Mewse in the closing stages, as the Aussie made his way from eighth to fifth in the race.

De Wolf’s gap to Geerts remained at around three seconds for most of the race, though with two laps to go Geerts put on a late charge to get onto the back of the Husqvarna rider.

Jago Geerts – MXGP of Flanders-Belgium – Round 6

The battle for the win was close and continued right until the chequered flag, but it was De Wolf who came out on top to win his first ever MX2 race, while Geerts finished second and Renaux in a distant third.

With a win and a second, Jago Geerts was the overall winner at his home track, while Kay De Wolf stood on the second step of the podium after some very strong races and Maxime Renaux joined the pair, to stand on the third step of the podium and extend his championship lead to 26 points over Mattia Guadagnini who only managed 12th overall today. Fernandez remains third in the standings, while Geerts is fourth just two points from second.

MX2 Podium – de Wolf, Geerts, Renaux – 2021 MXGP of Flanders-Belgium – Round 6

Jed Beaton finished fifth, to claim fifth overall for the weekend, while Wilson Todd was 23rd.

Jago Geerts

“I’m really happy to win here in Lommel. Last year I think everyone expected that I would win at least one of the three GP’s but it didn’t happen. In the second race Kay was riding really good and at the end I tried to go for the pass, but I couldn’t make it happen. It’s nice to head in the right direction but the season is still long and I’m not really thinking about the championship that much, I just want to go out every weekend, do my best and collect as many points as possible.”

Jago Geerts – 2021 MXGP of Flanders-Belgium – Round 6

Kay De Wolf – P2

“The fight in race two already started with two laps to go. I enjoyed racing. It’s an amazing feeling to win a race. It’s going really well this season so far, so we’ll keep on fighting and keep up with the hard work.”

Kay de Wolf – 2021 MXGP of Flanders-Belgium – Round 6

Maxime Renaux – P3

“The first race, I took a good start, well actually the start was better in race two but I went wide in the first corner because Kay was really close, so I went wide. The first race I made a good start and was feeling great on the track and took a little gap to Jago. I was just feeling really good and made a silly mistake passing a lapped rider, I got cross rutted and went down. That was a shame but finishing second was really good for the points for the championship. The second race I had a good start, I didn’t push too hard as the guys were pretty quick and were so far in front that it was almost impossible to get them, so I finished the race third. Third overall is good, good for the championship so I’m happy. I’ve only won one race since the beginning of the year and I’m not happy with that, I want to win more races. When you win races and put 25 points you can get a bigger gap to your opponent, so yeah, I try to be as consistent as I can and will try to win races, take good starts, which I think is very important this year and hopefully it will pay off.”

Maxime Renaux – 2021 MXGP of Flanders-Belgium – Round 6

Thibault Benistant – P6

“My day was quite good overall because I finished fourth with 34-points. This is only 1-point less than my best ever finish this year, with my best weekend being 35-points. When you look at it like this, it is quite good. I had a bit of bad luck in the first race. Another rider hit my lever and I had no front brake for the whole race, but in the end of the race I was feeling really good and was one of the fastest guys on track at the end of the moto. In the second race, the feeling was not there, so I did not want to go over the limit and make a mistake for nothing; fourth overall in Lommel is not a bad result.”

Tom Vialle – P7

“Seventh is not what we want but after the injury I have not ridden in the sand for a long time. I tried twice this week but it wasn’t going too well with my hand. In another way I’m quite happy because my hand came through the motos well. We can build from here. I was already tired at the start of the second moto and the track was really tough today. If you are not ‘bike fit’ then it is extra difficult here. I think I would have enjoyed today a lot more if I had that fitness. I know from here we will be a bit better every day. We will train hard this week and I know I will be 100% by the time we go to Turkey.”

Simon Langenfelder – P9

“I felt really good on my bike today. I was flowing in the turns and after qualifying I was really confident for some strong results. Unfortunately, in both races I had to come from the back because of avoiding a crash in race one and then in moto two, I had a really good start, but I was pushed wide and off the track. In that one I came from 25th to ninth so my speed is there, I just needed a little bit of luck to get some better results.”

MX2 Results

Source: MCNews.com.au

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2021 EnduroGP of Estonia – Day 1 Report

Images by Dario Agrati

Bouncing back from a disappointing performance one week ago at the GP of Estonia, 22-year-old Australian Wil Ruprecht (TM) proved himself to be the rider to beat on day one of the Airmousse GP of Sweden, Round Four of the 2021 Borilli FIM EnduroGP World Championship in Skövde.

Wil Ruprecht (TM) took the outright ahead of Josep Garcia (KTM) and Brad Freeman (Beta)

With Wil topping the overall EnduroGP results by a healthy 20 seconds, as well as winning the Enduro2 class, the Australian was joined as a class winner by Davide Guarneri (Fantic) in Enduro1, Brad Freeman (Beta) in Enduro3, Laia Sanz (GASGAS) in Enduro Women, and Lorenzo Macoritto (TM) in Enduro Junior. Albin Norrbin (Fantic) claimed a home win in Enduro Youth.

The outright top seven were all on different brands of motorcycle with Ruprecht putting TM on top.

EnduroGP – Ruprecht bounces back

Taking the win on the Friday night Akrapovic Super Test, Wil Ruprecht made his intentions clear right from the start of the Airmousse GP of Sweden. Although only winning by a slender margin, come the end of the first day’s opening lap, Wil was still pushing hard and battling against both Josep Garcia (KTM) and Brad Freeman.

With Freeman losing time on each of the three AcerbisCross Tests, the battle for the EnduroGP class lead was all about Ruprecht and Garcia.

Wil Ruprecht (TM)

With little to separate the two riders as the day neared its close, the final Champion Enduro Test would prove decisive. For Ruprecht it went well, very well, as the TM mounted rider topped the time sheets to maintain his class advantage and ultimately secure the day’s win. For Garcia, who needed to deliver his best while hoping for a mistake from Ruprecht, things didn’t work out. The Spaniard fell, but still earned a hard-fought runner-up EnduroGP result.

Brad Freeman – Beta

With Freeman rounding out the podium, fourth, fifth, and sixth positions all went to 250F mounted riders – Davide Guarneri, Samuele Bernardini (Honda), and Andrea Verona (GASGAS).

Wil Ruprecht (TM)

Yeah, today was good,” said Wil. “The tests were nice to ride, but also a little scary in places – you certainly didn’t want to be making any big mistakes. I just rode a strong but steady pace, hit my marks, and tried not to over ride the bike. I think there’s a little more that I can give, but it was a good day.

Wil Ruprecht (TM)

EnduroGP Stage One Results

  1. Wil Ruprecht – E2 – TM
  2. Josep Garcia – E2 – KTM +20.25s
  3. Brad Freeman – E3 – Beta +37.04s
  4. Davide Guarnoni – E1 – Fantic +1min01.51s
  5. Samuele Bernardini – E1 – Honda +1min14.99s
  6. Andrea Verona – E1 – Gas Gas +1min17.74s
  7. Hamish McDonald – E2 – Sherco +1min18.74s
  8. Jaume Betriu – E3 – KTM +1min31.98s
  9. Jamie McCanney – E3 – Husqvarna +1min51.32s
  10. Antoine Magain – E1 – Sherco +1min52.81s
Josep Garcia

Enduro1 – Guarneri claims day win number two

Although delivering a not-so-great time on the opening Akrapovic Super Test, Davide Guarneri hit the ground running at the start of day one, topping the opening Champion Enduro Test before winning a further three tests before the mid-way point of the day.

Davide Guarneri

I had a really strong opening lap, which meant that I was able to open up a small advantage,” commented Italian Guarneri from the podium. “I made some mistakes, it wasn’t a perfect day from me, but I think everyone was making some mistakes. For myself and Fantic, it’s great to get this second victory of the championship. I was also a little lucky – I had a big crash in the final enduro test, but I was able to get back on my bike quickly.

Davide Guarneri

It was a great day for Samuele Bernardini who secured his best result of the season with second. Andrea Verona dropped outside the top two for the first time, taking third. Antoine Magain (Sherco) and Mikael Persson (KTM) were fourth and fifth respectively.

Samuele Bernardini

Enduro2 – Ruprecht and Garcia lead the way

The Enduro2 class boiled down to a battle between Ruprecht and Garcia for the win. With the duo pushing the pace in the overall EnduroGP standings they pulled clear of their classmates. With Ruprecht holding firm, Garcia would be denied his third race win in a row.

Wil Ruprecht

Behind the top two it was another consistent performance from New Zealand’s Hamish MacDonald (Sherco) in third. The reigning Enduro Junior champion is growing stronger with each round and will soon look to bridge the gap to the top two.

New Zealand’s Hamish MacDonald (Sherco)

Delivering a strong performance on home soil, Sweden’s Albin Elowson (Husqvarna) was fourth with Finland’s Eero Remes (TM) fifth.

New Zealand’s Hamish MacDonald (Sherco)

Enduro3 – Seven in a row for Freeman

While admitting to not having the measure of Ruprecht and Garcia in EnduroGP, Freeman continued his win streak in Enduro3 to claim his seventh victory of the season.

Jamie McCanney (Husqvarna)

As ever the battle behind him was a much tighter affair with Jaume Betriu (KTM), Jamie McCanney (Husqvarna) and Daniel McCanney (Sherco) fighting for the remainder of the podium. Betriu placed as runner-up, with Jamie getting the better of his brother Daniel for third. Antoine Basset (Beta) rounded out the top five.

Jaume Betriu

Enduro Women – Laia by a mile

Starting as she meant to continue, Laia Sanz comfortably topped the event opening Akrapovic Super Test before firing out of the blocks early on day one with what would be the first of three wins. Unbeaten on any special test during lap one, and having extended a healthy lead in the process, Laia topped just one of the final lap’s three special tests – the Acerbis Cross Test – yet still ended the day on the top step of the podium and close to 50-seconds ahead of her closest challenger.

Second on day one went to Britain’s Jane Daniels (Fantic) who put together a largely mistake free day, beating Laia on one of the day’s special tests. The only other rider to take a test win off Sanz was Mirea Badia (GASGAS). Like Daniels, Badia wasn’t really able to challenge Laia, placing third overall and 13 seconds down on Daniels. With Britain’s Rosie Rowett (KTM) fourth and Norway’s Marie Vilde Holt (GASGAS) fifth, the best placed home rider was Linnea Akesson (Husqvarna) in sixth.

Mirea Badia (GASGAS)

I felt like the special tests didn’t really suit me too well, but I’m really happy to have got the win,” explained Sanz at the end of the day. “The day was quite relaxed, no stress, so that was good. I’m sure tomorrow will be tougher, but I hope that I can match this result and not struggle on the second day as I have at some events recently.

Enduro Junior – Macoritto takes it

As has been the case so far this year, the battle for top honours in Enduro Junior was played out between Lorenzo Macoritto and teammate Matteo Pavoni (TM). Spurred on by his day two win last week in Estonia, Macoritto held off Pavoni by 12 seconds to get the job done. With home support on his side, Sweden’s Max Ahlin (Husqvarna) wasn’t too far away, just 19 seconds behind Pavoni, for third. He’ll look to go better on day two. A strong ride by Fantic’s Jed Etchells saw him beat Ruy Barbosa (Honda) by five seconds for fourth.

Matteo Pavoni (TM)

Enduro Youth – Home win for Norrbin

Following his win in Italy and double in Estonia, Albin Norrbin is now the rider to beat in Enduro Youth having won today in Sweden. The Swede was a class act taking eight test wins from 10. Kevin Cristino and Harry Edmondson made it a Fantic 1-2-3 in Skövde. Samuli Puhakainen (TM) and Albert Fontova (KTM) completed the top five.

Albin Norrbin

After a physically demanding opening day in Skövde, the Airmousse GP of Sweden concludes on Saturday July 24.

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2021 EnduroGP of Estonia – Day 2 Report

Brad Freeman (Beta) has fought back to win day two of the Airmousse GP of Sweden, round four of the Borilli FIM EnduroGP World Championship, in Skövde. After finishing third on day one, a determined effort from the Brit saw him fend off Italy’s Andrea Verona (GASGAS) by four seconds, with Davide Guarneri (Fantic) placing third overall in EnduroGP.

Brad Freeman (Beta) extended his EnduroGP outright and E3 category points lead

It was double delight for Spain’s Laia Sanz as she secured a day two win in the Enduro Women’s category, while Lorenzo Macoritto (TM) and Albin Norrbin (Fantic) also ended their time in Sweden with double wins in the Enduro Junior and Enduro Youth classes respectively.

EnduroGP class – Four-way battle upfront

The fight for top honours in EnduroGP was a hard-fought one on day two of the Airmousse GP of Sweden with the top four riders separated by just 14 seconds after more than one-hour of timed special test racing. Frustrated by his mistakes on day one, Freeman began day two on a mission, sweeping the first three tests to grab an early lead. But the pace was frantic at the top as Verona, Guarneri and Josep Garcia (KTM) all came to the boil early on lap two. Garcia won the second Champion Enduro Test, while Verona topped the Acerbis Cross Test.

Andrea Verona (ITA), GASGAS

Opening up a slender advantage on lap three, Freeman held some breathing room entering the final test of the weekend, the Acerbis Cross Test. Behind him Guarneri provisionally held second with Garcia one tenth of a second adrift in third. But a blisteringly fast time from Verona leapfrogged him past both riders and into second, finishing just four seconds behind Freeman.

Wil Ruprecht (AUS), TM

With second slipping from his grasp on the final test, Guarneri held of Garcia by less than one-second for third. Although starting the day strongly, Will Ruprecht (TM) – day one winner – couldn’t maintain that pace and slipped down the order to fifth.

It’s amazing to get the win, but for me the biggest thing was to turn things around from yesterday,” said Freeman. “I started strong and was able to lead all day. Hats off to Andrea on that final test though, I’m glad I had some breathing room going into it!

Brad Freeman (Beta)

Freeman now leads the EnduroGP standings entering the summer break with the final two rounds of the championship remaining in October.

EnduroGP Stage Two Results

  1. Brad Freeman (GBR), Beta,
  2. Andrea Verona (ITA), GASGAS, +4.33s
  3. Davide Guarneri (ITA), Fantic, +13.64s
  4. Josep Garcia (ESP), KTM, +14.52s
  5. Wil Ruprecht (AUS), TM, +45.70s
  6. Hamish MacDonald (NZL), Sherco +1m29.62s
  7. Albin Elowson (SWE), Husqvarna +1min47.08s
  8. Jaime Betriu (ESP), KTM, +1min48.37s
  9. Joe Wootton (GBR), Husqvarna +1min54.41s
  10. Anton Lundgren (SWE), Husqvarna +1min58.27s
Sweden EnduroGP Stage Two Results
1. Brad Freeman (GBR), Beta,
2. Andrea Verona (ITA), GASGAS, +4.33s
3. Davide Guarneri (ITA), Fantic, +13.64s

EnduroGP Championship Standings

  1. Brad Freeman (GBR), Beta, 146 points
  2. Josep Garcia (ESP), KTM, 124 pts
  3. Wil Ruprecht (AUS), TM, 120 pts
  4. Andrea Verona (ITA), GASGAS, 102 pts
  5. Davide Guarneri (ITA), Fantic, 92 pts
  6. Hamish MacDonald (NZL), Sherco, 74 pts
  7. Steve Holcombe (GBR), Beta, 72 pts
  8. Jaime Betriu (ESP), KTM, 67 pts
  9. Samuele Bernardini (ITA), Honda, 37 pts
  10. Daniel McCanney (GBR), Sherco, 37 pts

Enduro1 – Verona steals the show

Fresh from his Enduro1 clean sweep last weekend in Estonia, Andrea Verona arrived in Sweden focused on delivering more winning rides. Perhaps a little too eager to continue from where he left off, the Italian frustratingly hit the deck multiple times early on during day one. Relying upon his impressive pace to bring him back up to the sharp end of the results by the end of the day, Andrea would ultimately claim third in E1.

Davide Guarneri (Fantic)

Hitting the reset button ahead the second day of racing, Verona was back to his best. On pace with his rivals from the start, more importantly he kept things rubber side down with the 22-year-old engaged in a day-long battle with countryman Davide Guarneri for overall victory. With the outcome of day two coming down to the results of the final test of the weekend, Verona dug deep to take the win and top the Enduro1 class by just over nine seconds. In doing so he also claimed a runner-up EnduroGP result.

Andrea Verona (ITA), GASGAS
Andrea Verona

I’m super happy with how my weekend ended. On day one I had too many crashes but despite that, I still wasn’t too far from the win. To turn it around on the second day and take the win, this was really huge for me to bounce back like that. With it going down to the last test, I had nothing to lose and I gave it full gas. I gave it everything and to take the day win after a close battle all day feels amazing. My speed put me on the podium in EnduroGP as well, so for me this second day was really special after a difficult opening day.

Andrea Verona (ITA), GASGAS

Behind the top two, Honda’s Samuele Bernardini took third, albeit over two minutes behind the leaders. Sweden’s Mikael Persson (KTM) finished fourth, with Canada’s Kade Tinkler (KTM) fifth.

Samuele Bernardini (Honda)

Enduro1 Stage Two Results

  1. Andrea Verona (GASGAS)
  2. Davide Guarneri (Fantic) +9.31s
  3. Samuele Bernardini (Honda) +2min13.24s
  4. Mikael Persson (KTM) +2min23.51s
  5. Kade Tinkler (KTM) +2min43.57s
Sweden Enduro1 Stage Two Results
1. Andrea Verona (GASGAS)
2. Davide Guarneri (Fantic) +9.31s
3. Samuele Bernardini (Honda) +2min13.24s

Enduro1 Championship Standings

  1. Andrea Verona (GASGAS) 152
  2. Davide Guarneri (Fantic) 142
  3. Samuele Bernardini (Honda) 109
  4. Antoine Magan (Sherco) 99
  5. Davide Soreca (Husqvarna) 85

Enduro2 – Garcia ahead of Ruprecht

The second of two back-to-back rounds held in the north of Europe, the EnduroGP of Sweden gave riders very little in terms of rest between events due to its Thursday-to-Saturday schedule. Delivering a mixture of terrain, including forest tracks, open grass tests, and dusty hardpack, one thing that remained constant was the weather – hot, dry conditions punished the riders even further, with fitness and endurance proving key to a strong result, especially on the second day.

Josep Garcia (ESP), KTM

Following an intense two-rider fight for the win that raged throughout day one, Garcia went into the ninth and final test of the day trailing leader Wil Ruprecht by just over 11 seconds. Giving his all, Josep looked like he might be able to claw back the time needed, but a small mistake mid-test cost the Spaniard the seconds he required, and he was forced to settle for second overall on day one behind the Aussie.

Wil Ruprecht (AUS), TM

On day two the fight was contested by a number of riders, with the top five separated by just over 20-seconds after eight of the nine special tests. Josep secured the Enduro2 class win, but missed out on the EnduroGP podium by just 0.88 seconds. His results over the two days were enough for him to successfully maintain his second place in the outright EnduroGP standings and close in on Ruprecth for the points lead in Enduro2, where the KTM 350 EXC-F rider now trails TM’s Ruprecht by just five points.

Hamish MacDonald (NZL), Sherco

Another third place for Kiwi Hamish MacDonald (Sherco) on day two, while Albin Elowson (Husqvarna) and Joe Wootton (Husqvarna) were fourth and fifth respectively.

Hamish MacDonald (NZL), Sherco
Josep Garcia

It’s been an excellent event here in Sweden, but of course another tough one. Day one went well, I was fighting with Wil (Ruprecht) the whole day and in the end, it came down to the final test. I gave it my all, but a small mistake just lost me too much time, but it was good to finish second in EnduroGP. Day two went well for me, I had a crash on the second Cross Test and that cost some seconds, but I was still in the fight for the win. In the last lap we were all together, really close on time. I pushed as always but I just missed out on the EnduroGP podium by a tiny amount. I’m happy with the E2 class result, but in the overall I know it could be better, but this is racing, and I know I did my best.

Josep Garcia (ESP), KTM
Wil Ruprecht

That’s a wrap from Sweden! Solid riding both days with some fast company. Happy with the outright speed going into the summer break but it’s clear I’m coming up a little bit short late Sunday. As with all challenges I’ve faced this year I will dedicated all of my energy towards cleaning up this area and hopefully have something to show for it come the back half of the season. A big thanks to the team for a big 2 weeks of support.

Wil Ruprecht (AUS), TM

Enduro2 Stage Two Results

  1. Josep Garcia (ESP), KTM
  2. Wil Ruprecht (AUS), TM, +31.18s
  3. Hamish MacDonald (NZL), Sherco, +1min15.10s
  4. Albin Elowson (SWE), Husqvarna, +1min32.56s
  5. Joe Wooton (GBR), Husqvarna, +1min39.89s
Sweden Enduro2 Stage Two Results
1. Josep Garcia (ESP), KTM,
2. Wil Ruprecht (AUS), TM, +31.18s
3. Hamish MacDonald (NZL), Sherco, +1min15.10s

Enduro2 Championship Standings

  1. Wil Ruprecht (AUS), TM, 146
  2. Josep Garcia (ESP), KTM, 141
  3. Hamish MacDonald (NZL), Sherco, 112
  4. Steve Holcombe (GBR), Beta, 106
  5. Eero Remes (FIN), TM, 68

Enduro3 – Freeman extends championship lead with win

While Freeman ran away with proceedings in Enduro3, there was plenty of battles behind him for the podium. Jaume Betriu got the better of the McCanney brothers for second, while Jamie McCanney (Husqvarna) edged out his brother Daniel McCanney (Sherco) for third. Antoine Basset (Beta) took fifth.

Sweden Enduro3 Stage Two Results
1. Brad Freeman (GB) Beta
2. Jaume Betriu (ESP) KTM +1min48.37s
3. Jamie McCanney (GB) Husqvarna +2min14.85s

Enduro3 Stage Two Results

  1. Brad Freeman (GB) Beta
  2. Jaume Betriu (ESP) KTM +1min48.37s
  3. Jamie McCanney (GB) Husqvarna +2min14.85s
  4. Daniel McCanney (GB) Sherco +2min23.72s
  5. Antoine Basset (FRA) Beta +3min22.50s
Brad Freeman (Beta)

Enduro3 Championship Standings

  1. Brad Freeman (GB) Beta 160
  2. Jaume Betriu (ESP) KTM 134
  3. Daniel McCanney (GB) Sherco 116
  4. Jamie McCanney (GB) Husqvarna 108
  5. Antoine Basset (FRA) Beta 77

Enduro Women – Sanz in charge

It was a weekend of fast and frantic action at round four of the 2021 FIM EnduroGP World Championship, with Laia Sanz topping the Women’s class on both days of racing. In dominant form throughout the entire weekend, the Spanish ace enjoyed a maximum points haul, heading home to Spain with the Women’s class lead.

Jane Daniels (Fantic)

Arriving at the EnduroGP of Sweden tied on points at the top of the Women’s championship standings, Laia Sanz had only one thing on her mind – leave Skovde with a firm hold of the Women’s title chase. After topping the timesheets on Thursday night’s Super Test (the race ran from Thursday to Saturday!), Laia was in full control throughout the opening day of racing, claiming a convincing victory.

For day two, the Spanish ace frustratingly lacked the energy needed to push forward, opting for a consistent pace in order to secure another strong result. Nevertheless, Laia won three of the six tests to claim a second day win in Sweden and now sits on top of the series standings with a comfortable eight-point lead.

Laia Sanz

It’s been another good weekend for me and overall I’m really happy with my results. I would have liked for some of the tests to be a little slower and more technical, especially the extreme tests, but it was the same for everyone. Like the first round, my fitness isn’t quite where it needed to be in order to be able to push on the second day, so I had to maintain a strong but steady pace. In terms of my championship, it’s been a great weekend and now I have a nice gap at the top of the standings with one round to go in France.”

Laia Sanz (GASGAS)

Fastest on the Acerbis Cross Test, Mireia Badia (GASGAS) claimed the runner-up result with Jane Daniels (Fantic) third. Rosie Rowett (KTM) and Marie Holt (GASGAS) rounded out the top five.

EnduroGP Women Two Results

  1. Laia Sanz (GASGAS)
  2. Mireia Badia (GASGAS) +29.69s
  3. Jane Daniels (Fantic) +42.89s
  4. Rosie Rowett (KTM) +2min47.84s
  5. Marie Vilde Holt (GasGas) +3min36.95s

EnduroGP Women Championship Standings

  1. Laia Sanz (GASGAS) 75
  2. Mireia Badia (GASGAS) 67
  3. Jane Daniels (Fantic) 66
  4. Rosie Rowett (KTM) 45
  5. Joana Goncalves (Husqvarna) 39

Enduro Junior – Last gasp effort for Macoritto pays off

Delivering more great battles, both Lorenzo Macoritto (TM) and Matteo Pavoni (TM) again fought it out for the Enduro Junior victory. Entering the final test it was Pavoni who held the upper hand by nearly two seconds, but a flyer from Macoritto saw him collect his second win of the weekend.

Lorenzo Macoritto (TM)

Never too far away from the TM mounted pairing, Leo le Quere (Sherco) ended his day in third. Max Ahlin (Husqvarna) was fourth with Luc Fargier (GASGAS) fifth.

Matteo Pavoni (TM)

Enduro Junior Stage Two Results

  1. Lorenzo Macoritto (TM)
  2. Matteo Pavoni (TM) +1.71s
  3. Leo Le Quere (Sherco) +37.00s
  4. Max Ahlin (Husqvarna) +48.23s
  5. Luc Fargier (GasGas) +1min28.15s

Enduro Junior Championship Standings

  1. Matteo Pavoni (TM) 148
  2. Lorenzo Macoritto (TM) 142
  3. Leo Le Quere (Sherco) 99
  4. Max Ahlin (Husqvarna) 84
  5. Sergio Huertas Navarro (GasGas) 69

After a busy fortnight of racing, the Borilli FIM EnduroGP World Championship takes a well-earned summer break before returning for the final two rounds of the championship in early October.

Before that many riders in the field will contest the 2021 International Six Days Enduro, held in Italy from August 30 – September 4.

Source: MCNews.com.au

News Wrap | SpeedwayGP | Capricorn XTreme | EnduroGP | AMA MX

2021 Australian Classic and Post Classic MX Championships Cancelled

The 2021 Australian National Classic and Post Classic Motocross Championships hosted by Heaven VMX, originally set for July in Nowra, NSW that had been postponed due to concerns around COVID-19 have now officially been cancelled for 2021.

Due to the ongoing outbreak of Covid-19 across the country and the uncertainty in the current climate the Heaven VMX Club in consultation with Motorcycling Australia made the tough decision to cancel these events.

Kenneth Swan – Heaven VMX President

“The Heaven VMX club is passionate about the great sport of Vintage Motocross. The planned 2021 Australian National Classic and Post Classic Motocross Championships was intended to be an opportunity to extend our arms to, and share our passion with, all VMX racers from around Australia. Bring the whole VMX family together for a VMX Festival of Fun. When the Heaven VMX Club of NSW does run this event, we want to do it at the right time when all VMX racers from around Australia are safe and happy to travel and give it every chance to be the amazing event we have planned.

2021 Australian Classic and Post Classic MX Championships cancelled

“Therefore for 2021 for the Heaven VMX Club, have made the difficult decision to cancel the Australian National Classic and Post Classic Motocross Championships. With this news we are equally as disappointed as everyone is, we hope you understand though as this should be a truly national event for all our competitors.”

The Heaven VMX Club thanked all those riders that had already entered and supported the events. Over the next 2 weeks, all entry fees taken to date will be refunded through Ridernet and refunds will be finalised by July 31.


Australian Speedway Under 16’s 125cc Solo & Teams nominations open

Motorcycling Australia ihave opened nominations for the 2021 Australian Speedway under 16’s 125cc Solo and Teams Championships. The Championships will be held at South Australia’s Sidewinders U16’s Speedway Club, September 23-25.

Supplementary regulations for the Championships can be found here (link)Nominations can be submitted by filling out the following form here.

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Two New Zealand Oceania Speedway Sidecar rounds announced for 2022

FIM Oceania, Speedway NZ (SNZ) and Motorcycling NZ (MNZ) have revealed that competitors will be set to battle out the 2022 FIM Oceania Speedway Sidecar Championship over two rounds on January 29th, 2022, at Moore Park Speedway, Christchurch, New Zealand and Oreti Park Speedway, Invercargill New Zealand on February 5th, 2022.

The FIM Oceania Speedway Sidecar Championship heads to New Zealand in 2022

This will be the first time the FIM Oceania Speedway Sidecar Championship has been hosted on New Zealand soil, and over two rounds. With both host tracks sporting a rich history in Motorcycle Racing.

Moore Park speedway was founded and named after the late Ronnie Moore, and Oreti Park Speedway, Invercargill has strong ties to Burt Munro.

The final round of this FIM Oceania Championship finishing in Invercargill the week before the annual pilgrimage to the South for the Burt Munro Classic, which is always a talked about two wheel event.

Peter Doyle – FIM Oceania President

“FIM Oceania was very pleased to be working with Speedway NZ and their host tracks, Moore Park & Oreti Park Speedways for what is sure to be an amazing 2022 FIM Oceania Speedway Sidecar Championship. It is excellent to have this FIM Oceania Championship conducted in New Zealand and we encourage motorcycle racing fans from across New Zealand and Australia to get along and not miss a minute of this speedway action. There is a long history of excellent competition and hard fought battles between the Aussies & Kiwi riders across many motorcycle races over the years. I am sure in January 2022, there will be two rounds of sensational speedway racing.”

Speedway NZ will be seeking Expressions of Interest from New Zealand based riders for the event over the next six weeks before finalising the qualification process for NZ representation.

Motorcycling Australia and ACU have been delegated 8 of the 16 spots in the rider line-up, for what promises to be an action packed international event.

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Maciej Janowski tops Czech Speedway GP Round 1

Polish star Maciej Janowski was elated to end his Prague struggles as he topped the Anlas Czech Republic FIM Speedway Grand Prix round-one podium on Friday evening.

‘Magic’ delivered a dream start to his season when he overhauled Emil Sayfutdinov at the start of lap three to win the final. Great Britain racer Tai Woffinden was third, while Sweden’s Fredrik Lindgren was fourth after hitting the tapes.

Despite Sayfutdinov cruising through to the final after topping the heat score chart on 12 race points, it was Janowski who got the verdict when it mattered most to top the World Championship.

It’s the first time he has qualified for a Prague final since his SGP debut season in 2015, when he finished third. Janowski had reached the semi-finals at Marketa Stadium three times in seven appearances going into Friday night, so he was delighted to triumph at the opening round of SGP 2021.

Maciej Janowski

“For the last couple of years, I have been struggling on this track. But today I felt great and my team was working great. The bike was so quick and I really enjoyed racing. I want to say thanks to my team. I love you guys. We found a good setup from the beginning and that was very fast. I used good lines on the track. I got good points and I rode very well. So I am very happy and that’s a great start to the Grand Prix series. The season is long; we have 11 rounds. We need to be smart and fast like today. Tomorrow is a different day. We will try to focus on the same things as tonight and I hope tomorrow I can show the same speedway.”

Maciej Janowski

Double European champion Emil Sayfutdinov was content with second spot as reached his first SGP podium since 2019.

Emil Sayfutdinov

“It was very good. I felt good from the start and I was happy around the track because I had good speed. I would like to say thanks to my team, who have been working very hard. That’s the next goal, so we will just concentrate on that. It is always a different day and a different track. Today I will try to relax, have a good sleep and then we will see.”

Woffinden was pleased to pick up third place on the Marketa Stadium track where he won three SGP rounds on the bounce between 2013 and 2015.

Tai Woffinden

“We salvaged a third, which was pretty good. I started the night okay with a second and a win. The next two races were really bad and we were just trying to find the setup. We were chasing it all night. I needed to win my last race to make the semi, which I did. I needed to finish first or second to get into the final, which I did. If Freddie hadn’t touched the tapes, I wouldn’t have been on the podium. We learned a lot today for tomorrow.”

Australian Max Fricke finished eighth with nine-points, while Jason Doyle was 12, on five.

Speedway GP World Championship Standings after Round 1

  1. Maciej Janowski 20
  2. Emil Sayfutdinov 18
  3. Tai Woffinden 16
  4. Fredrik Lindgren 14
  5. Artem Laguta 12
  6. Bartosz Zmarzlik 11
  7. Leon Madsen 10
  8. Max Fricke 9
  9. Martin Vaculik 8
  10. Robert Lambert 7
  11. Matej Zagar 6
  12. Jason Doyle 5
  13. Jan Kvech 4
  14. Anders Thomsen 3
  15. Oliver Berntzon 2
  16. Krzysztof Kasprzak 1
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Artem Laguta claims Speedway GP Round 2 victory

Triple FIM Speedway of Nations world champion Artem Laguta admits the Prague rain clouds had a golden lining as he stormed to victory in Anlas Czech Republic FIM Speedway Grand Prix round two on Sunday.

Czech Republic FIM Speedway Grand Prix Round 2

The sport’s biggest stars returned to Marketa Stadium for an early-afternoon start after Saturday’s event was postponed due to heavy downpours in the Czech capital.

A rare afternoon round proved lucky for Laguta as he collected the second SGP victory of his career – following up his triumph at the 2020 season opener in Wroclaw.

Laguta raced past fellow SON winner Emil Sayfutdinov to hit the front, with Friday’s round-one winner Maciej Janowski joining him for second and Sweden’s Fredrik Lindgren rounding Sayfutdinov for third on the final corner.

Heavy rain followed by bright sunshine meant track conditions changed drastically for speedway’s biggest stars. But Laguta made the most of them to move up to second place in the World Championship on 32 points – just six behind leader Janowski.

Artem Laguta

“I am very happy today. It was a good day for me. It was a good meeting and I made good starts today. I am very, very happy with the win. Now I am looking forward to the next meeting. But Speedway Grand Prix is always very hard. There was a lot of rain on Saturday, but it went today and the track was okay. It was very hard with grippy starts, but for me it was no problem. I want to say thank you to my team and thank you to my family – they are my life. I am very happy. Thank you.”

Artem Laguta topped the Round 2 podium

Janowski admits the bike which fired him to victory in Friday’s first round didn’t have the same impact today. But a change of equipment saw him bounce back with a very handy second place – meaning he has dropped just two championship points from a possible 40.

Maciej Janowski

“They were two completely different days. After four heats I changed my bike. My first bike that I used on Friday lost some energy, so we changed and then everything was much, much better. It could have been better, but I am happy with what we got. Second place in the second GP sounds good and I scored good points – that’s the most important thing. We had a very hard day, but I am happy with how it finished.”

Maciej Janowski

Lindgren has made a habit of scraping into semi-finals and taking full advantage of the opportunity. He turned eight race points in the heats into a very useful 16 championship points with third place.

The Swede is now fourth in the World Championship on 30 points and was pleased to make his mark when it mattered once again.

Fredrik Lindgren

“Today was a big battle all the way through. I never really felt I had good speed. I was making decent starts and had good track craft, but I was struggling a bit and really had to scrape through to the semis. In the semi we found a bit more speed in the bike and I was very happy I made it to the final. In the final I just gave it everything I had. It was a big battle and a big blast around the outside on the last corner to make it on to the podium. I am happy with that.”

Round 2 saw Jason Doyle in sixth, claiming 11-points, with Max Fricke in 11th for six. Doyle and Fricke are now ninth and 10th in the standings respectively.

Next up for the FIM Speedway Grand Prix stars is Betard Wroclaw SGP of Poland rounds three and four at the legendary Olympic Stadium on July 30 and 31, as Janowski bids to extend his series lead in his home city, with Laguta and Tai Woffinden also lining up on their Polish home track.

Speedway GP Round 2 Results

  1. Artem Laguta 20
  2. Maciej Janowski 18
  3. Fredrik Lindgren 16
  4. Emil Sayfutdinov 14
  5. Bartosz Zmarzlik 12
  6. Jason Doyle 11
  7. Martin Vaculik 10
  8. Anders Thomsen 9
  9. Tai Woffinden 8
  10. 10 Leon Madsen 7
  11. Max Fricke 6
  12. Matej Zagar 5
  13. Krzysztof Kasprzak 4
  14. Jan Kvech 3
  15. Robert Lambert 2
  16. Oliver Berntzon 1
  17. Petr Chlupac 0
  18. Daniel Klima DNR

Speedway GP World Championship Standings after Round 2

  1. Maciej Janowski 38
  2. Artem Laguta 32
  3. Emil Sayfutdinov 32
  4. Fredrik Lindgren 30
  5. Tai Woffinden 24
  6. Bartosz Zmarzlik 23
  7. Martin Vaculik 18
  8. Leon Madsen 17
  9. Jason Doyle 16
  10. Max Fricke 15
  11. Anders Thomsen 12
  12. Matej Zagar 11
  13. Robert Lambert 9
  14. Jan Kvech 7
  15. Krzysztof Kasprzak 5
  16. Oliver Berntzon 3
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DuQuoin Mile Cancelled Due to Weather

Due to the significant level of rainfall in the area, the 2021 DuQuoin Mile has been cancelled. Progressive AFT will continue its season with the Port Royal Half-Mile on Saturday, July 24 at Port Royal Speedway in Port Royal, Penn.

Fans who have purchased advanced tickets for the DuQuoin Mile will receive information on refunds and ticket credits from Track Enterprises in the coming days.


2021 Capricorn XTreme –  Grassroots Enduro Round 3

Round Three of the Australian Hard Enduro Championship has been run and won, despite the challenges to organisers and promotors of the national series, Grassroots Enduro Australia, who spent the week leading up to the race contending with Covid lockdowns and heavy rains.

A brand new venue located at Mount Morgan, eight hours north of Brisbane in Queensland saw 176 Hard Enduro nutters register for the Capricorn X-Treme.

Riders were meant to compete in the prologue in order to determine their starting positions for race day, with Juniors racing a two and a half hour event on the same day as the prologue. However 80 mm of rain preceeded the event, which saw the access road washed out, with the go-ahead only coming through 6 pm the day prior to racing.

2021 Capricorn XTreme – Grassroots Australian Hard Enduro

As such the the prologue was abandoned and Juniors race moved to the morning of race day. Gold, Silver, Bronze and Ladies classes raced on the 45 km track over a six hour time limit, while the Juniors track was eight km in length, with a reduced two hour limit.

The Pro/Gold class was won by Rob Nowak (KTM), a veteran of the Hard Enduro scene in Australia with international race experience such as RBR, Erzberg and Sea to Sky. Runner up went to Wade Ibrahim (KTM), who won round two, leaving him in a strong position on the points chart.

Sherco rider Chris Perry rounded out the top three with a solid performance and backing up his third place at the previous round.

In the Silver class Chris Dark took the win ahead of Trent Tucci, with just a minute separating them, while Frank Fee completed the podium.

Mac Vonthien won the Bronze category by a handy seven-minutes over Robert Brosig, while Adam DeCaria claimed the final podium positon.

Ebony Nielsen won the Ladies, ahead of Cheyenne Jones and Zeena Gadsby, with Amy Davidson a more distant fourth.

In the Junior class, Brody Reed took the win ahead of Toby Page, as the only two riders to complete five laps. Third placed Michael Blake completed four.

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Source: MCNews.com.au

Moto News | Finke | King of MX | NZ Enduro | TrialGP | MXGP | Rally


Yearbury wraps up 2021 New Zealand Enduro Championships

By Andy McGechan

There was probably a small moment in time when Waikato man Dylan Yearbury thought his national title hopes had just flown out the window. But, a never-say-die attitude from the Husqvarna man was enough for him to complete the task he’d set himself when forced to settle for overall runner-up at last season’s COVID-19 pandemic-shortened New Zealand Enduro Championships… and that was to fight back and win it in 2021.

Cambridge's Dylan Yearbury (Husqvarna FE350), outright winner of the 2021 New Zealand Enduro Championships - Image by Andy McGechan, BikesportNZ.com
Cambridge’s Dylan Yearbury (Husqvarna FE350), outright winner of the 2021 New Zealand Enduro Championships – Image by Andy McGechan

Yearbury (Husqvarna FE350) was in command after the first three of five rounds in this year’s championships, having compiled a 2-1-1 score-sheet from the events in Tokoroa and the Marlborough and Porirua/Upper Hutt regions respectively, and he arrived in the Wairarapa Region for the final two back-to-back rounds at the weekend in a confident mood.

Yearbury finished runner-up to his main title rival Tommy Buxton at round four on farmland near Masterton on Saturday and was still the favourite to go on and wrap it up on similar terrain near Martinborough the following day. But a high-speed crash during Sunday’s fifth and final round very nearly shattered his dreams.

“I had a huge crash and the impact of that cracked the bike’s rear sub-frame. I knew it was risky to carry on with the bike damaged like that, but I didn’t have a lot of choice,” said the 26-year-old Cambridge builder. “The crash was in the day’s first ‘special test’ and it stunned me a bit. I struggled to get a flow going with my riding after that. I went okay, but not brilliant.”

But even when Yearbury is not at his best, he’s still a lot better than so many others in the competition and he managed to end the day at Martinborough third overall of the 65 starters, finishing behind Whanganui’s Seth Reardon and Buxton.

Fortunately for Yearbury, this was easily enough for him to get the job done and he could therefore celebrate winning his first national enduro championships outright. Buxton finished the series runner-up, with Reardon, Oparau’s James Scott and Taupo’s Wil Yeoman rounding out the top five.

Yearbury also added icing to his cake by claiming the over-301cc four-stroke class win. He is current and two-time winner of the parallel-but-separate New Zealand Extreme Off-Road Championships, but never the enduro nationals and that’s probably largely due to his competing overseas in past years.

With COVID putting a crimp on international travel, it’s likely we’ll see Yearbury’s name feature a little more regularly at home.

The various class winners this season were:

  • Dylan Yearbury (Husqvarna, expert over-301cc 4-stroke class);
  • Seth Reardon (Yamaha, expert under-300cc 4-stroke class);
  • Aston Grey (Yamaha, expert over-201cc 2-stroke class);
  • Wil Yeoman (Yamaha, expert under-200cc 2-stroke class);
  • Sean Clarke (Husqvarna, expert veterans over-40 years class)
  • Julia Williams (KTM, women’s class);
  • Joshua Alexander (KTM, intermediate over-201cc 2-stroke and over 301cc 4-stroke class);
  • Harrison McClintock (KTM, intermediate under-200cc 2-stroke and under 300cc 4-stroke class);
  • Phil Gibson (Husqvarna, intermediate veterans 40-49 years class);
  • George Callaghan (Yamaha, intermediate 50-54 years class);
  • Phil Skinner (Husqvarna, intermediate veterans over-55 years class).
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Bou & Fujinami share TrialGP opener victories

Repsol Honda Team rider Toni Bou became the first leader of the 2021 TrialGP World Championship after claiming victory in the Italian town of Tolmezzo. Team-mate Takahisa Fujinami finished in seventh place.

Toni Bou

Just five weeks ago Toni Bou was lying on a stretcher waiting to be operated on for a left leg fibula fracture. Today, Toni Bou was back in the competition, finishing on the highest step of the podium, having sealed the win at the 2021 Trial World Championship curtain-raiser in Italy.

Without having prepared or trained as he had wished, the Repsol Honda Team rider was nevertheless able to endure the first day of competition held in Tolmezzo (Italy). Despite suffering some discomfort on the second lap of the twelve sections, Bou went on to claim the victory by a mere point ahead of arch rival, Adam Raga.

Takahisa Fujinami, at 41 years of age, claimed victory on the second day of the Italian TrialGP. Toni Bou, runner-up, keeps hold of the overall leadership after the world championship opener.

Takahisa Fujinami

Five years have gone by since Takahisa Fujinami’s last win in Lourdes, France, in July 2016. Today, Repsol Honda Team’s Japanese rider made his return to the top step of the podium sealing victory number 34 in the Outdoor Trial World Championship.

Elevated temperatures marked the second day of the trial in the Italian town of Tolmezzo, wreaking havoc among riders in the more technical sections. Repsol Honda Team rider, Takahisa Fujinami, gradually improving throughout the day, was however, able to overcome many of the tougher sections, picking up just four marks on an extraordinary second lap to capture the final victory. With this superb result, “Fujigas” now holds third place in the overall standings, eight points behind the leader and team-mate, Toni Bou.

Takahisa Fujinami

“Yesterday, I felt comfortable on the bike, but the results didn’t materialize. In general, these last few months I have trained hard and I have felt very good with the bike. Yesterday, I did not expect to finish seventh, but the truth is that I was close to fifth and with room for improvement. What I did not expect was to be able to win today! I was looking for the win, but not 100%. I’m very happy. At 41, I don’t think anyone was expecting it, not my team, nor Toni, and I don’t think I was. It was terrific to be able to achieve it. I felt like I did in 2004, when I was 24 years old. Thank you very much to the whole team for always supporting me and helping me, this victory is a gift for all of you.”

Takahisa Fujinami wins Day 2

Despite starting the day somewhat worse for wear after Day 1’s huge victory effort, Toni Bou once again performed well and was able to finish in a more than commendable second position. The Repsol Honda Team rider leaves Italy leading the world championship.

Toni Bou

“First of all, I want to congratulate my partner Takahisa Fujinami. What he has done today at 41 has been incredible. He works a lot and does such a good job with the whole team. As for me, I am happy with the weekend in general. Today in section 6 I hurt myself a bit, I made a mistake with the line and wasn’t able to secure my foot. Even so, I got a very good result. I hope I haven’t done too much damage and hopefully I will be able to recover fully for the second round of the world championship.”

Toni Bou and Takahisa Fujinami celebrate

Laia Sanz also showed she’s lost none of her feet-up skills by winning the opening day of the Women’s Trial World Championship at the GP of Italy. Giving her all to secure victory, Laia then placed a strong second on day two to sit as joint leader of the women’s championship ahead of the second round.

Laia Sanz

“Overall, it’s been a great trial for me. It’s been so nice to be back in the trial paddock, and to win on the first day was incredible – it felt so, so good to get that result. It wasn’t easy for me with the non-stop rules, but things worked out really well. The second lap was tough, but I managed to push to the end. I found day two hard. I was already struggling physically a little at the end of the first day, and today, with the heat, I wasn’t at 100%. I made some mistakes on the first lap that really I shouldn’t have made, but I was leading, so I was happy. The second lap was hard, I dropped some extra marks, and Emma was riding well. But there are many positives from this weekend, not least the day one victory.”

Laia Sanz

Next stop for the TrialGP World Championship will be a one-day-only event in Charade, France, on July 3.

TrialGP Italy Results

Pos. Rider Nation Team Points
1 Toni BOU SPA Repsol Honda Team 37
2 Adam RAGA SPA TRRS Factory Team 32
3 Takahisa FUJINAMI JPN Repsol Honda Team 29
4 Matteo GRATTAROLA ITA Beta Factory Racing 26
5 Jeroni FAJARDO SPA Sherco Factory Team 24
6 Jaime BUSTO SPA Vertigo Factory Team 22
7 Miquel GELABERT SPA Gas Gas 18
8 Gabriel MARCELLI SPA Montesa Factory 18
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Abestone Hard Enduro next stop for World Championship

The 2021 FIM Hard Enduro World Championship looks to hit its stride for round three at the Italian Abestone Hard Enduro. Despite a difficult start to this year’s championship, due to the Covid-hit Extreme XL Lagares and subsequent cancellation of Red Bull Erzbergrodeo, the fighting spirit of Hard Enduro is very much alive as it regroups for the remainder of season.

Only four weeks out from the Abestone Hard Enduro, all eyes focus towards the Italian event. Injecting a new event into the Hard Enduro scene, taking place in the heart of the Tuscany mountains, the event is set to be both spectacular and exciting. Hard Enduro veteran Michele Bosi and his organising team are hard at work to ensure no stone is left unturned and no trail unexplored, as they work to ensure a race that will undoubtedly put Italy firmly back on the international Hard Enduro map.

With barely time to recover it’s then off to Romania and the incredible Red Bull Romaniacs for round four. An event that needs little introduction, it’s produced some iconic memories during its 17 editions to date. With organisers also planning for a marathon stage, featuring a ‘night under the stars’ for competitors, another show-stopper is on the cards.

From Romania the series heads across the pond to the USA for the Red Bull TKO. North America’s premier Hard Enduro, the Tennessee venue will be one to watch. With a wealth of American talent eager to shine on home soil, everyone will be pushing the limits to win.

Poland’s HERO Challenge in early September brings the series back to Europe for the home stretch. Staged over days there will be a real mix of Urban and Hard Enduro for riders to contend with, plus high-speed elements. The city prologue in the heart of Dabrow Górnicza is sure to become a highlight of the weekend. At a crucial stage in the championship, expect this year’s title contenders to step forward.

Spain’s Hixpania Hard Enduro plays host to the penultimate round of the series. Staged over three days, it offers a wide array of riding. From Friday’s prologue in the heart of the medieval town of Aguilar de Campoo, to Saturday’s extreme cross-country race around the shoreline of a gigantic lake and Sunday’s intense multi-lap quarry-based finale, it’s a technical masterpiece to excel at.

Ready to provide a truly memorable ending to the inaugural season of the FIM Hard Enduro World Championship is Germany’s GetzenRodeo. Arguably one of the smallest venues on the calendar, it punches way above its welterweight. As the venue of the 2019 WESS finale, the racing was electric and we’re certain it will deliver another grandstand ending to sign off 2021.

The FIM Hard Enduro World Championship continues with the Abestone Hard Enduro in Italy on July 10-11.


ProMX set for Gillman, SA return to action at Round 3

The dirt flying action will return to South Australia on July 11 when the 2021 Penrite ProMX Championship, presented by AMX Superstores, hits Gillman, following the forced postponement last month of Round 3 of the Championship.

2021 Australian ProMX

The round was scheduled for May 30 at Gillman but was postponed due to the South Australian Government’s COVID-19 border restrictions only days prior to the event.

ProMX Management Team has now advised the tentative rescheduling of the Gillman round for July 11, 2021, subject to lifting of the SA Government COVID-19 border restrictions. The team will provide confirmation that the round will go ahead no later than June 25.

If restrictions do not allow the July 11 date to occur, a secondary date of September 19 will be considered by the ProMX Management Team and MRA.

Riders and teams are advised to monitor ProMX announcements in the meantime and entries for the event will re-open soon, a further communication will be announced confirming the time.

For the fans who had already purchased tickets, they will be able to use them for entry in July. For spectators wanting to get along to Gillman tickets are available now via www.auspromx.com.au.

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Queensland to host 2021 Australian Senior Dirt Track

The 2021 Australian Senior Dirt Track Championships will fly into action September 4 and 5, at Mick Doohan Raceway, Banyo, Queensland. Originally slated to be held in Canberra, Queensland club North Brisbane Junior MCC will now host the Championships. The club is also hosting the Australian Junior Track Championships July 3 and 4.

The Senior Dirt Track Championships weekend will see Australia’s best dirt trackers fight it out to be crowned Motorcycling Australia’s Senior Dirt Track Champions. Full fields of 10 Championship classes are expected following the success of the recent Track Championships held Tamworth in NSW.

Classes of competition will include:

  • Pro 250 – 100cc to 150cc 2-stroke & 200cc to 250cc 4-stroke (MX)
  • Pro 450 – 250cc 2-stroke & 450cc 4-stroke (MX)
  • MX Open – 500cc 2-stroke & Over 300cc 4-stroke (MX)
  • 250cc Slider – Up to 250cc
  • 500cc Slider – Up to 500cc
  • Slider Open – Unlimited 460cc and over
  • Pro Open – Women Unlimited (MX)
  • Sidecar – Up to 1100cc
  • ATV Open – Up to 550cc 2-stroke & 700cc 4-stroke
  • ATV Open – Women Up to 550cc 2-stroke & 700cc 4-stroke

Jarred Brook who recently had success at Tamworth will be hoping to repeat his 2019 Australian Senior Dirt Track Championships results (the last time the Championship was held) where he clean swept the competition in the MX Open, Pro 450 and Pro Open classes.

Andrew Brook – North Brisbane Junior MCC President

“It’s an honour to host the Championships, we as a committee have worked really hard to get us in this position to hold major meetings and we are very happy that we have secured both the Junior and Senior Dirt Track Championships. We have been doing some fairly major pit extensions which are looking very professional and will be ready in time for the Championships. With the excitement of Australian titles and being so close to the Brisbane, people love to see good riders, and good fast clean action, so we certainly expect a good crowd.”


Oklahoma City OKC Mile I & II this weekend!

Images by Scott Hunter

For the first time in 2021, the full power of Progressive American Flat Track will be unleashed on a big Mile racetrack with this weekend’s Indian Motorcycle of Oklahoma City OKC Mile I & II at Remington Park in Oklahoma City on Friday, June 18 and Saturday, June 19.

Briar Bauman

Coming off of the cathartic victory of reigning two-time champion Briar Bauman at the recent Chicago Half-Mile, his title rival Jared Mees will be seriously motivated to counter with a victory (or two) of his own this weekend.

While he built his reputation largely on his Half-Mile prowess – and later his all-around game – Mees has developed into one of the sport’s all-time great Milers in recent years. Since 2016, he’s racked up an astonishing 15 Mile wins, including all three previous stops at Remington Park.

Even though title hopeful Sammy Halbert is out of action while on the mend from injury, Mees’ path to victory will be all the more difficult to negotiate considering this weekend marks the anticipated return of “Mile Master” Bryan Smith.

Jared Mees
Jared Mees

A tactical genius in high-speed drafting wars, Smith is tied with the iconic Bubba Shobert for third on the all-time Mile wins list at 25. Now picking and choosing his best races and funneling all of his focus and effort into winning those rather than the season-long grind of a championship chase, Smith could be a serious threat at the OKC Mile.

Despite the fact that the OKC Mile is one of the few Miles Smith has yet to conquer, he’s been on the podium in each of his three attempts. Given a sniff of the draft on the final lap, victory #26 could be within his grasp.

AFT Singles

Estenson Yamaha teammates Dallas Daniels and Mikey Rush are separated by just a single point atop the AFT Singles championship order thanks to their consistent excellence. Rush has yet to finish off the podium this year, while Daniels has finished no lower than fourth and holds the slight advantage thanks to his Atlanta Super TT victory.

Dallas Daniels & Max Whale
Dallas Daniels & Max Whale

Both riders are proven Mile experts – Rush in particular – so it would be a surprise if they weren’t among the lead group battling it out for the wins again this weekend.

However, all eyes will be on the class’ all-time winningest rider, Shayna Texter-Bauman. Aggressive, instinctive and intelligent, Texter-Bauman is nearly unbeatable on high-speed tracks when everything is clicking, as evidenced by her record eight-career Mile wins, including one at Remington Park. Should she up that tally to ten, Texter-Bauman would instantly reignite the title pursuit she kicked off in double-win fashion back in March at Volusia Speedway Park.

Even though he’s best known for his legendary TT and ST accomplishments, Henry Wiles was actually the best Miler in the class during last year’s abbreviated schedule with a win and runner-up at the 2020 Indy Mile. The Honda ace could use a similar result this weekend to kickstart his championship campaign.

AFT Production Twins presented by Vance & Hines

Cory Texter leads the AFT Production Twins presented by Vance & Hines field into the OKC Mile fresh off his second victory of the season at the Chicago Half-Mile.

Cory Texter
Cory Texter

The championship’s top four ranked riders – Texter, Chad Cose, Dan Bromley and Dalton Gauthier – have put themselves in that position with consistently strong performances.

Oklahoma native Danny Eslick, fresh off of a third place finish at the Chicago Half-Mile, stands confident as he prepares to line up on his home turf.

In its return, the Indian Motorcycle of Oklahoma City OKC Mile brings back with it the open paddock experience and the return of a rider autograph session to precede Opening Ceremonies both days. Chasing Neon will entertain with its eclectic mix of live party music that ranges from country to classic rock and everything in between. Additionally, the Fan Zone and vendor area will keep spectators fully fed, hydrated, and stimulated all day at the track.

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AMA 2021 ISDE Teams revealed

The American Motorcyclist Association have announced the 10 Trophy team riders selected to represent the United States at the 2021 FIM International Six Days Enduro in Italy on Aug. 30 – Sept. 4, 2021.

ISDE Day ImageDarioAgrati USA Australia Italy
Team USA win ISDE 2019 – Image by Dario Agrati

The 10 Trophy riders will compete as the U.S. World Trophy, Junior World Trophy and Women’s World Trophy teams. Every country participating in the ISDE is allowed four riders on its World Trophy Team, three riders age 23 or younger on its Junior Trophy Team, and three female riders on its Women’s team.

The U.S. World Trophy Team last won the ISDE —- the world’s largest annual off-road motorcycle competition – in 2019, giving the U.S. its second ISDE World Trophy title. The U.S. Women’s Trophy team won in 2019, as well, the first time since 2007 the Women’s Trophy team had taken the award.

The 2021 U.S. World Trophy Team includes: Johnny Girroir of Boonville, N.C., GASGAS EC 250F; Taylor Robert of Scottsdale, Ariz., KTM 450 XC-F; Layne Michael of Boonville N.C., Yamaha YZ450F; and Ryan Sipes of Ekron, Ky., GASGAS EC 300 TPI.

Antti Kallonen – U.S. ISDE Trophy Team Manager

“I’m excited to return to ISDE racing after a long, one-year break from it and our motivation is high with lots of fresh faces on our team roster this year. I’m excited to bring a new rider — Johnny Girroir — to the World Trophy team, as [Girroir] has been dominating in our national races here on a 250F. He is new to ISDE, but I have all the confidence he will perform well. With our seasoned veterans and former ISDE overall winners Taylor Robert’s and Ryan Sipes’ guidance, I have no doubt about it. I’m very excited to welcome back Layne Michael, who was part of our championship team in 2016. Since then, Layne has developed tremendously and I’m looking forward to a great performance from him as well. I’m equally excited about our all-new Junior team this year. Our former riders from the past have all aged out and we have some very fast, next-generation riders eager to step in, prove their speed and continue the title hunt in the Junior class. We have some new faces in the Women’s division as well. Brandy Richards will be returning and gunning for the overall victory together with new team member Rachel Gutish, who is no stranger to ISDE and I’m happy to welcome her back. I’m excited to bring new rider Britney Gallegos to the team and work with her and the entire team to have a successful race. I believe we have been able to form three strong teams to defend our World Trophy and Women titles and aim for a Junior title, as well.”

The 2021 U.S. Junior World Trophy Team, made up of riders age 23 and younger, includes: Cody Barnes of Sterling, Ill., Honda CRF250R; Dante Oliveira of Hollister, Calif., KTM 450 XC-F; and Austin Walton of Sparks, Nev., Husqvarna FX450.

ISDE Day ImageDarioAgrati Women Sheets Richards Gieger
USA took out the Women’s competition in 2019 – Image by Dario Agrati

The 2021 U.S. Women’s World Trophy team includes: Brandy Richards of Lake Havasu City, Ariz., KTM 250 XC-F; Rachel Gutish of Terre Haute, Ind., Beta 250 RR; and Britney Gallegos of Monte Vista, Colo., Husqvarna 250FX.

Joining the 10 Trophy riders are 21 Club Team riders, who have qualified through the AMA East and West ISDE Qualifier series in the first six months of the season.

Club Team riders include:

  • Tyler Vore — Indianapolis, Ind.
  • Axel Pearson — Panaca, Nev.
  • Tanner Whipple — Colona, Ill.
  • Preston Campbell — Murrieta, Calif.
  • Travis Reynaud — Strafford, Mo.
  • Anson Maloney — Grass Valley, Calif.
  • Cade Henderson — Pacelot, S.C.
  • Josh Knight — Ogden, Utah
  • Talon Soenksen — Fife Lake, Utah
  • Anthony Ferrante — Penn Valley, Calif.
  • Nicholas Swenson — Delano, Minn.
  • Nathan Ferderer— Bend, Ore.
  • Grady Faint — Hoschton, Ga.
  • Joel Tonsgard — Arlington, Wash.
  • Brian Storrie — McKinney, Texas
  • Jayson Densley — Fairfield, Utah
  • Reid Brown — North Plains, Ore.
  • Mateo Oliveira — Hollister, Calif.
  • John Beal — Snohomish, Wash.
  • Cole Martinez — Camp Verde, Ariz.
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Source: MCNews.com.au