FACEBOOK PHOTO OF THE WEEK
Both our readers and Facebook fans love two-strokes. Every time we put a picture of a two-stoke on social media the ratings go crazy. We couldn’t believe this FMF ad with just the words two-stoke and two pipes shaped like a heart went bonkers without even a picture of a dirt bike! We are glad our fans love two-stokes as much as we do.
FUN FACT
In 2014, the MXA wrecking crew did full tests on 54 bikes and 87 products. That also means that we went through 54 sets of pants, jerseys, goggles and gloves since we use a fresh set each photoshoot.
THE KTM X-BOW GT4
Reiter Engineering GmbH & Co KG and KTM Sportcar GmbH are working together on a racing car that will be available to customers in Europe, the USA and Asia. The construction of the vehicle and all of the logistics, including sales and supply of spare parts will be in the hands of Reiter Engineering.
The joint motor racing project represents a continuation of the successful partnership between Reiter Engineering and KTM Sportcar that dates back to 2008 when the cooperation resulted in overall victory in the “GT4 Sports Light European Championship”. At that time German driver Christopher Haase won the European GT4 Championship title driving a KTM X-BOW GT4, fighting against tough international competition.
HOW DO YOU MOTO WHEN YOU’RE SNOWED IN? TIMBERSLED IS THE ANSWER
We rode many different bikes with the Timbersled attached, but the fire breathing KTM300 had to be our favorite. It was the most nimble out of the bunch and the best choice the the tight corners for the race.
Last year John Basher and myself went to Timbersled headquarters in Sandpoint, Idaho. We rode two full days through the wilderness in the mountains. We had so much fun that when Brett Blazer from Timbersled invited us to a Snowbike race in McCall, Idaho and we could not refuse the invitation.
John Basher kicking back waiting on the rest of the crew to show up.
On day 1 we got our bearings back up in the mountains. It takes a while to adapt to the half dirt bike half snowmobile mutation. There are no foot brakes and instead of weighting the outside foot in the corners, you need to weight the inside foot if you want to head in the desired direction.
The Timbersled slogan is,”Anywhere you want to go.” Here Daryl sits on top on a mountain range taking in the beauty of the Idaho landscape.
We were fortunate to ride with Pro snowbike riders Brock Hoyer and Reagan Sieg along with freestyler Ronnie Renner. Watching them jump and flick the Timbersleds around was jaw dropping. From watching them ride we learned a lot coming into race day.
Just getting the tracks of the snowbike off the ground is scary enough! Here Reagan Sieg does a superman seat-grab in mid air of a huge natural terrain kicker.
For me, race day is always nerve racking. We have a full paid trip with brand new $15,000 plus bikes at our finger tips. I always feel it is my obligation as a racer to put the product to the front. But without much experience and 34 other riders I had my tail between my legs.
Daryl got a bad start so he cut the second corner in the main event to get with the leaders. Number 44 in the background is multi champion OMA rider who is staying inside the banners. Jimmy ended up passing Daryl while he was on the ground laughing as he went by.
The track was on a golf course covered with snow. By the end of first practice the turns were developing big berms and ruts! It felt just like riding a dirt bike railing the berms. I started to feel in my element. The hardest thing to do was pass. Every-time I passed someone I had to hit them to make the pass stick. Did I feel bad? Not until I found out I took two guys out of the race and ripped one riders footpeg off. Oops!
Daryl hit the back of the riders track trying to make the pass. He ended making a snow angel instead.
In the main event I got what was going to me. I went for a block pass into third place and caught my ski on the other riders track which launched me into the fluffy snow. We had a blast thanks to all the Timbersled guys and hope to do it again soon!
This was your snowbike race winner, Brock Hoyer. We could not believe that he was scrubbing his Yamaha/Timbersled to the win.
Look for a video coming soon on the website and an article about our trip in a future MXA mag.
MINI VIEW: ELI TOMAC #3
By Jim Kimball
MXA: Eli, earlier this year you got your first 450 Supercross win, that had to be a huge monkey off your back!
Eli: Yes, Phoenix went great for me. I was the fastest in qualifying, won my heat race, and then was able to repeat it in the main. I had some good starts there, and holeshot both my races, which is definitely the way to get things done. It had been a long time coming. We really got the bike dialed in this year, and I’m healthy – so when all those things come together you win races. I am looking forward to many more.
I think you keyed on it when you mentioned a long time coming.
I truly think that I was capable of taking a win last year, but I feel much more capable this year. Last year was a learning year for me, a typical 450-rookie year where mistakes are made. Although Ken Roczen rode really well and won a couple races, I was still learning the 450. For me it was definitely a whole other animal racing in the 450 class versus the 250 class. To be racing against all the veterans that I used to look up to was definitely different.
You mentioned getting the bike more dialed in this year. Has Honda changed their approach to racing Supercross and Motocross here in the states?
I think they have, now the riders have a lot more opportunity to try the different things that they like, so that the riders can perform to expectations. They use the best components and products, things that suit the individual riders, and make us more comfortable. They now do what makes the most sense to get us able to win. It’s maybe less about business, and more about actual winning. That has been their approach recently, and it’s worked very well. There is a lot more support from Japan now, and it really shows how committed they are to racing. I’m not sure what else to say about it; its been great to have them change the way they go about racing. Trey and myself are on the KYB, while Cole has chosen Showa. We are out here to focus on winning races, and it doesn’t matter whose suspension we are using.
And your bike is traveling with the Factory Team and under their awning now.
Yes, my motorcycle does stay with the factory team, and they do control the bike. So I am basically a part of that team, but my bike has the Geico livery on it. It’s basically a factory Honda bike – besides my bike being within the Factory Honda pit my program has not changed drastically.
2015 Supercross is an interesting mix of veterans and rookies, and then younger guys like yourself and Ken Roczen that have won races in the 450 class.
Yeah, I guess that you could say that Ken and myself are the young new faces of the class. It’s cool to see a new wave of riders coming up. After us, you have the 450-rookie class that is doing pretty well. Then you may have a couple guys move up to the 450 class next year. The sport is in good shape for many years to come.
With getting your first 450 Supercross this season are you feeling pretty good about your riding?
I’ve learned a lot in the first part of the season. Obviously Anaheim 1 was a bummer, but after that it’s been pretty good for the most part. It’s a long, long season, but I feel that I still have a chance to get to the top of the points battle, I just cannot make any more big mistakes. When you are competing with guys like Roczen and Dungey you simply cannot make any mistakes. I feel that I am in a pretty good spot to make a big surge late in the season. Every year as a rider you get more experience. You get stronger with age. I’m 23 now, and I feel like I am the strongest physically, and mentally that I have ever been. It’s been good. You turn professional at 17 and you are still a kid. But now I think that I am getting into my full strength years.
Going for a championship seems to be a constant struggle as far as going all out for a race win or looking long term and going for points – is that true?
That’s where the best 450 guys show themselves – how they go after a championship. When you can, and cannot push is very important, and I cannot say that I am very good at that yet. But that is what it takes to win a 450 championship. I would say that Ryan villopoto is the perfect example of how a rider should be. He has the right qualities of speed and consistency. You need to make every race day count, whether you are sick or injured, get a poor start, or get the holeshot.
Speaking of Ryan Villopoto, how do you feel he will do in Europe?
I know that he will not have a problem with winning races, but will he win the championship; I don’t know. That will be a big toss up. With a guy like Antonio Cairoli he is just so experienced, plus he is simply very fast. I guess I just don’t know how it will play out, although I know Ryan will be very fast; you cannot bet against that! Cairoli is also very fast and has the advantage of riding all those tracks. It will make for a very interesting World Championship.
Has there been more bar banging this year?
Yes, I think that there is just so much young talent, and that there is no one or two guys that are “the guys”. I would say that the riders out here respect each other, but that this year there is no intimidation factor at all in the racing. I think this is why you are seeing more aggressive racing with lots of bumping. There are a lot of guys that don’t want to back down now!
Every year you hear how the 450 class is so stacked, but this year it especially seems true.
I would say that the depth of the field is deeper than it ever was. The leader is only lapping up to 17th place or so, when last year they could lap up well into the top ten. I think that this just shows you how fast that everyone is. Honestly, its difficult to qualify out of a heat race this year. You simply have to be on you’re a game the entire day. I just want to keep winning as many 450 races as I can. That’s the ultimate goal. I don’t like losing, so that’s about it!
DREAM JOBS: JOHNNY JUMP — BRAND MANAGER, K&N FILTERS
STARTING POINT: “I got my start in the industry in 1993 by answering an ad in the L.A Times for an international sales position at Troy Lee Designs. I rode motocross at the time. I called down and spoke to Jim Mcllvain (Jimmy Mac of “Jody’s Box” fame). I met with him the next day, and they flew me to Vermont for the NORBA National MTB race that weekend to get started. I worked at Troy Lee Designs for over 10 years.”
THE JOB: “I was hired here at K&N in 2004 as brand manager for the motorcycle division. I handle all the race support for powersports. I also manage all media, advertising, new product releases, product testing, project bike build and news stories. There are a few really fun aspects of my job, especially when we are winning championships. Last year, we were able to win 26 titles.”
TREY CANARD ALPINSTAR TECH 10 REPLICA
PRESS RELEASE: As the benchmark motocross boot, the TECH 10 features innovations that make it the most technically advanced motocross boot ever. Relentlessly evolved and developed from a technology concept that Alpinestars first pioneered in motocross and off-road riding in the early 1980s, the TECH 10 is uncompromising in its high performance, comfort and durability. From the anatomical profiling with front and rear sliding blades to the all-new closure system with light and durable buckles, every component of this boot is designed to offer lightweight performance for each and every ride. Now available in his own distinctive and unique colorways, the Trey Canard Limited Edition TECH 10 offers the essential attributes for success—style and performance.
KEY FEATURES
The one-piece co-injected foot chassis incorporates five different polymer compounds in a single lightweight piece to offer strength while maintaining flexibility and structural integrity.
Innovative, lightweight upper combines full-grain leather with advanced microfiber together with an impact and abrasion resistant TPU shell. Upper incorporates Trey Canard’s unique and distinctive colorway signature.
Frontal protection features a dual closure system with an internal microfiber flap, plus Velcro® for a precise fit closure attached securely with a micro-adjustable, easy to operate, lightweight buckle. Shin incorporates a unique TPU blade system engineered to prevent frontal hyperextension and offer greater flex control.
Innovative, ergonomic design for lateral and medial flex zones to provide superb front and rear flexion support which helps prevent damaging torsional forces around the ankle area.
Medial-facing panel is constructed from a one-piece, specifically formulated polymer for improved structural stability and integrity, and incorporates a rubber insert panel for maximum grip contact and improved abrasion resistance.
Contoured TPU calf protector plate offers impact resistance and incorporates Alpinestars innovative rear blade system, formed with hard shock resistant and specifically developed red colored polymer compound to protect the heel and features a rear hyperextension guard.
Soft microfiber gaiter helps seal out excessive water and dirt.
Multi-density foot shell, incorporating heel and toe protection, is highly resistant to abrasion and impact, and adds to the boot’s overall durability.
Exclusive dual compound sole is seamlessly integrated on to the multi-density foot base structure with built-in support. The sole offers superior durability, grip and feel while riding.
The central sole insert is easily replaceable and Alpinestars offers a full sole replacement and boot repair service.
New buckle closure system includes high-impact and uniquely developed red color aluminium bridge closures, with memory and a quick release/locking system with self-aligning design for easy, precise closure and improved riding performance and security. All buckles are easily replaceable.
Internal poly-fabric lining with 3D open cell foam incorporates anti-sliding suede on heel area to keep foot located inside the boot. The Tech 10 boot is CE certified.
INNER ANKLE BRACE
Alpinestars innovative and patented biomechanical inner ankle brace features medial and lateral “C” torsion bars to control ankle and leg rotation, while allowing freedom of movement.
Dual connection torsion bars offer the rider natural ankle movement with progressive damping of torsional forces during an accident. Replaceable wide fit torsion bar included.
TPU protection and shock absorbing padding on the heel and ankles and an ultra-thin and flexible forefoot area provide increased sensitivity and control.
The Trey Canard Tech 10 is available in sizes 5-16 US / 38-52 EUR
FITNESS TIP OF THE WEEK: SKIPPING MEALS
Do not skip meals! When you skip a meal your metabolism starts to slow down. When this happens you stop burning those easy to lose calories. Your body has a mind of its own. When you skip a meal your body thinks that you can’t find food. The next time you eat, your body is going to store away more than usual resulting in more fat.
#MXATALKSINSTAGRAM
Big brother James must have been awfully proud when Malcolm took his first Supercross win. But it also must have been very hard not to be there for him. Although James has been ridiculed over and over again with not passing his WADA drug test, you can’t help but to have sympathy for the guy. Family comes before racing and it is unfortunate that they couldn’t celebrate together on this big day.
JOSH HANSEN — CHARGING FORWARD
FAIL: DARYL ECKLUND’S ATTEMPT AT JUMPING A TIMBERSLED
MINI VIEW: SHANE MCERATH #40
Slightly out of the limelight due to teammate Jessy Nelson winning Anaheim 1 and carrying the red plate, Troy Lee Designs KTM’s Shane Mcelrath has nonetheless done a commendable job in his second season of Supercross. The 20 year old has now won a 250 heat race, and notched several top ten finishes, his most recent being sixth overall at Anaheim 3. It was at this final Anaheim race of 2015 where we caught up with the transplanted North Carolinian.
By Jim Kimball
MXA: Shane, you are now in your second season of AMA Supercross, it appears that you have turned it up a notch or two.
Shane: Yes, thanks for saying that. It was a really big learning curve for me last year. I wasn’t doing as well as I wanted to in my rookie year, and was just being too hard on myself. I later figured that out, and started just being myself and enjoying it all, which started working better. This year at each race I feel that I am getting better and better, and just having a lot of fun with it.
You’ve also recently won a heat race, so you have the speed to run up front.
Yeah I really feel I’m on top of it right now. We put in a great off-season; so coming into this year I knew that I was ready. I just need to get some starts now, and feel that it’s my poor starts that have been holding me back. So, it’s been my starts that I have been working on the most, and trying to get out front right away.
The team made a major change over the off-season when they switched from Honda’s to KTM’s, and now you are on a true factory supported team; has that made a big difference?
Well, some years ago I rode a 2008 KTM 125; it was actually Jason Anderson’s bike the last year that he raced Schoolboy at Loretta Lynn’s. I probably rode that bike for three years. It came right from KTM and was a great bike. That was back when it had the linkage-less rear shock. Surprisingly when I got one of the new bikes from the TLD Team, it didn’t feel that much different. But of course now with the newer rear suspension, and the four-stroke engine, the bike is just so good. There was a little change to how the bike felt from the 2015 to the new 2015 Factory Edition, but the change wasn’t overwhelming. The motor is the biggest change for me, and overall the bike feels much more aggressive.
Did seeing your teammate take the win at Anaheim 1 give you guys a lot of confidence that the new bike was good?
Oh for sure, as I said the whole team had a good off-season, and we all put in a lot of work. We all knew where we stood, and what we needed to do, and that’s what we came into this series to do–we came to race. It was awesome for the team to do so well at the series opener.
There seems like there has been a lot of bumping, and shoving so far in Supercross this year.
We are all here to do our job, which is too race. There may have been some instances this year when it has gotten a little too excessive, but for the most part, that is just how it goes.
As we spoke about, you look like you’ve improved a lot in Supercross from last year. Can you get on the box soon?
I’m pretty happy with my riding, but I just need to get a good start. I feel good, and know that I have put in the work; I just need to put it together.
APPLIED RACING R/S TRIPLE CLAMP SETS FOR SUZUKI RM TWO-STROKES
PRESS RELEASE: Two strokes are back! When Applied Racing began making triple clamps in 1990, almost all or them were for two stroke motorcycles. As the industry moved towards four strokes, the demand became less and less. But, in the past few years, we have seen a big upsurge in the two strokes. Applied Racing never gave up on the two stroke and we still offer triple clamp sets for those bikes including the popular Suzuki RMs (04-08 RM 250 05-07 RM 125). We debuted our R/S Triple Clamps in 2012. We decided then that we need to make those available for two strokes as well.
Our R/S top clamp features both rubber and solid mount inserts. Try them both and decide which ones you want to use. Proprietary urethane elastomer bushings provide excellent vibration damping characteristics. This strong and abrasion resistant formula withstands over 2200 PSI. These elastomer bushings are contained in machined pockets on the top clamp. Then, precision machined Stainless steel collars are inserted into the elastomer bushings providing a mechanical restraint while still isolating the bar mounts from vibration. The bar mount is then secured with a strong grade 10.9 bolt. The proper torque secures the bar mount and pre-loads the elastomer bushings. Pre-load ensures the bushings completely fill the pockets and isolate the bar mounts. This is a much better system than the previous conical shaped bushings. Also included is a set of 6061 aluminum bushings. These precision machined solid bushings fit into the pockets in place of the elastomer bushings and create a solid mount system. Bar mounts are available for standard or oversized bars and an added +5mm height option on the RM models. All feature offset mounting holes for adjusting handlebar location. Top it off with the included one piece bar clamp to tie both mounts together and you have a twist-free Rubber or Solid system.
The lower triple clamp is fully CNC machined from 7075-T6511 Aluminum for superior strength. Its Yield strength (the point at which the metal will deform under stress) is 73 KSI. Most other lower clamps on the market are made from 6061 series aluminum with yield strength of only 40 KSI. The fork bores are machined, not honed, for a precise fit. R/S triple clamp sets includes top triple clamp, bar mounts, one piece top strap, bottom triple clamp, solid inserts, urethane inserts, and all hardware. Applied Clamps are made in the USA in our own facility. They include a lifetime warranty to the original purchaser even for crash damage (with proof of purchase). Who else can offer that? $395.95 R/S triple clamp set $ 485.85 R/S set & stem / bearing pressed (not available for all bikes)
MOTOCROSS BIKES THROUGH THEIR HISTORY
MATRIX CONCEPTS TOOLBOXS
PRESS RELEASE: Matrix Concepts offers a range of tool storage solutions for the shop, garage, and track. The M31 is a hi-impact plastic box with metal drawers, which creates a box that is lightweight yet strong. Great for the track and can also be customized with your name and number! MSRP $119.95
The M33 organizer is the perfect lightweight solution for keeping your small precision parts in one place. MSRP: $34.95
The M30 series high quality, all steel construction toolboxes are the perfect solution for the garage and shop. With 4 or 9 drawers, these large garage style toolboxes offer plenty of room for all of your large tools. MSRP: 4 DRW $399.95 / 9 DRW $539.95
The M30 & M31 toolboxes can be personalized with your name and number! Enjoy a 20% discount on all toolboxes! Use code TBOX20 at checkout. Standard shipping fees apply. Cannot be combined with other offers. To Join Team Matrix: We are now accepting 2015 Rider Resumes. http://www.matrixracingproducts.com/sponsorship http://www.hookit.com/brands/matrixconcepts