“RecoveR8 is a big part of my weekly routine. Since breaking my back it is critical for me to recover between sessions to ensure I get the most out of my weeks”
“RecoveR8 is a part of my every day program, it’s helped eliminate 95% of my arm pump and i’m always feeling good and able to back it up the second day.”
Kyle Webster
Daniel Milner
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Dean Ferris
Brett Metcalfe
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JUSTIN BRAYTON 3-time Australian Supercross champion Justin Brayton throwing his CRF450R sideways for the fans.
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IN THIS ISSUE ROUND 1 PROGRAM 9
Welcome from Motorcycling Australia
10
Round 1 Schedule
11
Event Features
16
Rider List
FEATURES 22
The Contenders - By MotoOnline
46
Jay Wilson - The Reigning Champion
58
Bike Review - Brayton’s CRF450R
11
6
BIKE REVIEW ROUND 1 PROGRAM GUIDE
The bike boasts a mix of Factory American Honda, HRC and Australian Factory Honda Racing components. The hydraulic clutch, the map switch, wiring, ECU and harnesses all works (HRC) components. Page 58
THE CONTENDERS America will have a strong presence in the SX2 ranks too, with Mitchell Oldenburg and Chris Blose pairing up at Penrite Honda Racing... Page 22
JAY WILSON - THE REIGNING CHAMPION I have won a few titles now, but I’ve never been in the position to defend it... Page 46
56 7
versatility DESIGNED TO DO MORE.
1mm
MX53 front tyre blocks are 1mm higher and have been redistributed to give riders better steering feel and more biting edges.
A horseshoe pattern of blocks on the front tyre reduces the stiffness in the center to offer a greater ride. The unique pattern also grabs the dirt to provide better braking grip.
T H E U LT I M AT E O F F - R O A D P E R F O R M A N C E . @dunloptyresanz @dunlop_anz | #MX53 DunlopTyres.com.au | © 2019 Dunlop Motorcycle Tyres Dunlop Motorcycle Tyres are distributed throughout Australia: Ficeda Accessories – 1300 437 711 TAS – Fulton Enterprises – (03) 6326 9199
Intermediate to hard terrain tyre, working in a mix of hard packed and loose soil, making it a very versatile tyre.
WELCOME FROM MOTORCYCLING AUSTRALIA
Motorcycling Australia (MA) would like to extend a warm welcome to all attending the 2019 Australian Supecross Championship Round 1 at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Queensland and for the 2019 series. Show casing a full suite of top domestic riders, as well as many internationals, this series is one of the most highly anticipated on the motorcycling calendar. The championship continues to grow and flourish and we are excited to see another hotly contested event and ready to see history created. In 2019 we will see many competitors from around the country contest, as well as internationally, from America some of which will return and others will be visiting Australian shores for the very first time. The Championship has been greatly assisted once again in 2019 with phenomenal support from the Troy Bayliss Events, to deliver close racing action and a world renowned event. We can’t wait to witness what is in store for us at the track. We would like to thank all involved, especially all riders, teams, sponsors, promoters, officials and suppliers for their undying commitment and passion for the sport. It’s with your support that ensures this event and the success of our young riders, continues long into the future. MA bids everyone a safe and enjoyable event. Remember to always; Ride. Race. Enjoy! Peter Doyle CEO | Motorcycling Australia
9
SCHEDULE. 10:30am
12.30pm
SIGN-ON
12:35pm
12.50pm
TRACK WALK
12:55pm
1:15pm
RIDERS BREFING
2:00pm
2:06pm
SX2 FREE PRACTICE
6 min
Group A
2:08pm
2:14pm
SX2 FREE PRACTICE
6 min
Group B
2:16pm
2:22pm
SX2 FREE PRACTICE
6 min
Group C
2:24pm
2:30pm
85CC FREE PRACTICE
6 min
2:32pm
2:38pm
SX1 FREE PRACTICE
6 min
Group A
2:40pm
2:46pm
SX1 FREE PRACTICE
6 min
Group B
2:48pm
2:54pm
PIT BIKE FREE PRACTICE
6 min
2:56pm
3:03pm
SX2 QUALIFIYING
7 min
Group A
3:05pm
3:12pm
SX2 QUALIFIYING
7 min
Group B
3:14pm
3:21pm
SX2 QUALIFIYING
7 min
Group C
3:23pm
3:30pm
85CC QUALIFIYING
7 min
3:32pm
3:39pm
SX1 QUALIFIYING
7 min
Group A
3:41pm
3:48pm
SX1 QUALIFIYING
7 min
Group B
3:50pm
3:57pm
PIT BIKE QUALIFIYING
7 min
6:00pm
6:15pm
OFFICIAL OPENNING
6:16pm
6:20pm
SX2 HEAT 1
8 laps
4 minutes
6:22pm
6:26pm
SX2 HEAT 2
8 laps
4 minutes
6:28pm
6:32pm
85CC HEAT 1
6 laps
4 minutes
6:40pm
6:44pm
85CC HEAT 2
6 laps
4 minutes
6:46pm
6:50pm
SX1 HEAT 1
8 laps
4 minutes
6:52pm
6:56pm
SX1 HEAT 2
8 laps
4 minutes
6:58pm
7:02pm
PIT BIKES HEAT 1
4 laps
4 minutes
7:06pm
7:10pm
PIT BIKES HEAT 2
4 laps
4 minutes
7:12pm
7:16pm
85CC LCQ
5 laps
4 minutes
7:18pm
7:21pm
PIT BIKE LCQ
2 laps
3 minutes
7:25pm
7:35pm
PIT BIKE FINAL
5 laps
8 minutes
7:50pm
8:00pm
SX1 SUPER POLE
8 laps
10 minutes
8:02pm
8:10pm
85CC FINAL
8 laps
8 minutes
8:12pm
8:16pm
SX2 B MAIN
6 laps
4 minutes
8:18pm
8:22pm
SX1 B MAIN
6 laps
4 minutes
8:25pm
8:33pm
SX2 FINAL 1
10 laps
8 minutes
8:35pm
8:43pm
SX1 FINAL 1
12 laps
8 minutes
8:45pm
8:51pm
SX2 FINAL 2
10 laps
6 minutes
8:53pm
9:00pm
SX1 FINAL 2
12 laps
7 minutes
10
9 minutes
SX1. THE PINNACLE OF SUPERCROSS, SX1 IS THE MOST PRESTIGIOUS CLASS IN SUPERCROSS, RIDERS WILL COMPETE IN 5 ROUNDS TO DECIDE WHO IS THE 2019 CHAMPION. 11
SX2. ALWAYS THE BIGGEST CONTESTED FIELD SX2 AGAIN DELIVERIES AN INCREDIBLE LINE OF OR RIDERS FROM AUSTRALIA & INTERNATIONALS. SX2 CLASS COMPETE AT ALL 5 ROUNDS OF THE AUSTRALIAN SUPERCROSS CHAMPIONSHIPS. 12
SX85. THE AUSTRALIAN SUPERCROSS CHAMPIONSHIP 85CC WILL SEE AUSTRALIA’S TOP RACERS COMPETE IN THREE ROUNDS, BRISBANE, PORT ADELAIDE & WOLLONGONG. THEY ARE THE FUTURE STARS OF SUPERCROSS. 13
AUSTRALIAN PITBIKE CUP. THEY MAY BE SMALL BUT THEY PACK A PUNCH, THESE 110CC FUN BIKES WON’T KNOW WHAT HIT THEM WHEN THEY TACKLE THE SUPERCROSS TRACK, EXPECT ACTION, CARNAGE AND A WHOLE LOT OF FUN. 14
FREESTYLE MOTOCROSS. SHOWTIME FMX AUSTRALIA’S LONGEST RUNNING FMX TEAM (20 YEARS) RIDERS INCLUDE ROBBIE MARSHALL, BRAD BURCH & GUEST RIDER COREY CREED (RECENT WINNER X-GAMES & NITRO GAMES QUARTER PIPE) 15
RIDER LIST. SX1 1
Justin Brayton
Honda
Penrite Factory Honda Racing Team
3
Jayden Rykers
Suzuki
Byrners Suzuki - ECSTAR OILS - UNIT - CSA Specialised services - BerrySweet Strawberry Farm - Willmax Graphics - SPMX - Fist Handwear - UNI FILTER AUS DID CHAIN - GoodRidge Braking - Pirelli - Ride Park Vic - Top Line - yoshimura
4
Luke Clout
Yamaha
CDR Yamaha Monster Energy
J05 Jesse Madden
Honda
Oil Piping Systems - Jamsie Constructions - Unit
7
Dylan Long
Kawasaki
Empire Kawasaki
14
Jesse Dobson
Husqvarna
Husqvarna - MPE - Unit - Pengelly Trucks - Bell - Dunlop - Nine two decals Anchored Arts Tattoo - Jamsie Constructions - Ashes Spoked Wheels - Fist - MX Store - Another Legacy - Water wise plumbing - Kwala
21
Justin Carafa
Honda
24
Brett Metcalfe
Honda
Penrite Factory Honda Racing Team
25
Dylan Wood
KTM
KTM Newcastle - Raceline Performance - KYT Helmets - Lusty Industries troy lee design - Loose Kid Industries - Gromor - Pirelli - MDM Racing
30
Joel Wightman
Honda
Honda Motorcycles - Pro-Moto Suspension - Fly Racing - RNR Life Co - Sidi Bridgestone - SKDA
32
Joel Cigliano
Kawasaki
Mick Muldoon Motorcycles - Pro-Moto Suspension - Motul
33
Cody Dyce
Suzuki
Michelin - Krusic’s Ride Park - eze race products - The Collective Family - SPMX - C4 National Flooring Services - FXR - Everyday Elite - Vern Graham Suzuki - SB Motorssport
36
Gradie Featherstone
Yamaha
KSF Racing
47
Todd Waters
Husqvarna
DPH Husqvarna Snap-On M2R Forma boots TLD Berry Sweet
56
Jono Krusic
Husqvarna
Maxima - Kroozetune - Seven - KRUSIC''S RIDE PARK
57
Jackson Richardson
Honda
Rockstar EnergyKnobby Just 1 XRP Motorsport Michelin
70
Lawson Bopping
Kawasaki
Empire Kawasaki
86
Richie Evans
Yamaha
Yamalube Yamaha Racing
122
Daniel Reardon
Yamaha
CDR Yamaha Monster Energy
481
Blake Cobbin
Husqvarna
EKS Brand - Mx Graphix - Mx Store - Home Valet - Brisbane KTM - Varner motorsports - KT Racing - Factory Connection Suspention
485 Caleb Ward
KTM
DAVEY MOTORSPORTS KTM - KTM AUSTRALIA - THE GROUND - ALPINESTARS - KROOZTUNE - MICHELIN - SP MOTO SEATS
602 Lochie Latimer
Yamaha
TLR - Latimer and Sons Transport - Northstar Yamaha - Brisbane Dirt Bike Services - Bridgestone - Castrol - Gaerne - Fly Racing - Renthal - Rekluse Motorsports - Scott Motosports - Propegs - Braking - Topline - NGK
SX2 1
Jay Wilson
Yamaha
Yamalube Yamaha Racing
3
Chris Blose
Honda
Penrite Factory Honda Racing Team
5
Jacob Hayes
Yamaha
Serco Yamaha
7
Connor Tierney
YAMAHA
GPH RECRUITMENT - YAMAHA AUSTRALIA - TIERNEY CONTRACTING PL Holeshot MX - MXINK
16
Kaleb Barham
Husqvarna
Mat Mladin - Mladin Racing - Husqvarna Australia - MPE Suspension - HP Motorcycles - SD3 Racing - Alpine Star - Oakley - Motorex - CTI - Rival Ink - Dunlop Ninety One Factory - Carwash Express
18
Aaron Tanti
Yamaha
Serco Yamaha
19
Bradley Taft
Kawasaki
Empire Kawasaki
16
RIDER LIST. SX2 20
Dylan Marchand
Yamaha
Airoh - Shell Advanced Motorcycle Oils - Kwala Racing - Five Gloves - Lodes Motorcycle Repairs - Bridgestone Tyres - Thomas Lee Motocycles
22
Rhys Budd
Honda
Penrite Pirelli CRF Honda Racing
24
Chandler Burns
KTM
Davey Motorsports KTM - KTM Austraia - AJs Motorcycles - Tunetech Racing - The Collective Family - Bolt everywear - Galactic Finger socks - Knobby Underwear - EST Fuels - Prox Racing - Acerbis - Oakley Australia & NZ - FOX Racing Australia - AlpineStars - Moss Institute - SP Moto Seats - LKI Clothing - Somerville Motorcycles
26
Jake Salems
KTM
Krooztune - Marriotts KTM - Sureflow Plumbing - Brojake P/L
27
Riley Dukes
Husqvarna
HUSQVARNA RACING TEAM - R & D HUSKY - THOR MX / GAS IMPORTS MOTOREX - RIVAL INK - MXR&D - BRIDGESTONE TYRES - SPY GOGGLES - LKI BRAND - ALPINESTARS
28
Jake Cahir
Husqvarna
Byrners Husqvarna - Seven mx - Maxima - Steve Cramer Products - AMX Superstore
29
Josh Brewster
Suzuki
Suzuki Australia - Ecstar Oils - Flooringsales.com.au - Byrners Suzuki - SB Motorsports - SPMX - FXR - Strike Seats - EZE Race Products - Michellin - Uni Filters
34
Brandon Steel
Kawasaki
steel brothers racing - UNI Filter Australia - free flight mx park
35
Ricky Latimer
Yamaha
TLR - Latimer and Sons Transport - Northstar Yamaha - Brisbane Dirt Bike Services - Bridgestone - Castrol - Fly Racing - Gaerne - Renthal - Rekluse Motorsports - Scott Motosports - Propegs - Braking - Topline - NGK
36
Jaxon Hadlow
Honda
Fly - Sidi - Honda
38
Morgan Fogarty
Ktm
Davey Motorsports, KTM Australia, Vortex, Thor, Beatons Pro Formula, Rosco Holden,Pump Works, SP Seats,
45
Jack Kukas
Yamaha
Bulk Nutrients - Yamaha - Dunlop - 6D Helmets - Zeta, DRC, Braking, Profilter Yamalube, GYTR, YMF, YMI - MX INK, Strike seats, Healthy Mates - VP race fuels, Procircuit - Scott, Cycra, JT sprockets, DID chains, FIST gloves
46
Hugh McKay
Yamaha
Bulk Nutrients Yamaha Race Team - Yamaha Motors Australia - Yamalube - WBR Motorcycles - 6D Helmets - Scott Motorsports - Zeta, DRC - Procircuit - Pirelli MX Ink - LKI - VP racing fuels - Braking - YMF, YMI, GYTR
56
Riley Stephens
Honda
Pro-Moto Suspension - Penrite - Thor - 6D - Pirelli
64
Dylan Wills
KTM
Davey Motorsports KTM
66
Mitchell Oldenburg
Honda
Penrite Factory Honda racing Team
71
Joshua Osby
KTM
72
Regan Duffy
KTM
Raceline KTM Thor
75
Caleb Goullet
Honda
Honda Genuine - NGK - SKDA - Scott Googles - Snapes Project Logistics - Pirelli Tyres - Honda Racing - Fly - M2R - Yoshimura - Sidi Boots - Vortex Ignition
96
Kyle Webster
Honda
Penrite Pirelli CRF Honda Racing
97
Lachlan Okeefe
Suzuki
145
Maximus Purvis
Yamaha
Bulk Nutrients - Yamaha - Dunlop - 6D helmets - Zeta, DRC, Braking, Profilter Yamalube, GYTR, YMF, YMI - MX INK, Strike seats, Healthy Mates - VP race fuels, Procircuit - Scott, Cycra, JT sprockets, DID chains, FIST gloves
188
Tomas Ravenhorst
KTM
Alpinestars - Kickstart Industries - Ravos Maintenance - Bolt Everywear - Grey Army - Kroozetune - TS Roofing - Mechpro solutions - Dunlop - Traralgon Relax & Recovery - SP Motoseat
Yamaha
Yamaha racing / Top Gun Motorcycles, MPE suspension
754 Jayce Cosford
CONTINUED. 17
RIDER LIST. SX85 17
Cody Kilpatrick
KTM
21
Ryder Kingsford
Yamaha
GYTR Yamaha Junior Racing,Yamalube, Ficeda, Scott, Dunlop
Connor Towill
KTM
KTM Newcastle : Mitas Tyres Aus : Pro Moto Suspension : Luke George Coaching: To The Edge Performance : Motoex Aus : Fox Aus : Willmax Graphics : Strike Seats : Oset Bikes Downunder : Jim Sherritt Racing
25
Jyle Campbell
KTM
Holeshot graphics - MCD racing - Highway performance - Elite brick and block
26
Jonty Hatton
Kawasaki
Raceline - Robertson motorcycles Dubbo
34
Blake Galloway
Yamaha
FUCHS Silkolene - Pod active - Ride park - W.B.R Racing - Din Dins racing
76
Zane Mackintosh
Husqvarna
DPH Motorsports, Byrners Husqvarna, Thor, Spy Goggles, F1 Moto, KroozTune, EHR
83
Tyler Wiremu
KTM
Prodigy MX Academy - Enviro Dynamics Civil - 100% - Alpine Stars - Bell Helmets
204 Liam Owens
Husqvarna
MPE Suspension - BSMX - Husqvarna Australia
288 Cambell Williams
KTM
Beatons Pro Formula - Pro Moto Suspension - Dubbo City Motorcycles - Troy Lee designs - Parramatta Racing - Willmax Graphics - Motul - VP Fuels - Willcon building - Pirelli
629 William Kearney
KTM
Climate King P/L
AUSTRALIAN PITBIKE CUP B
Mark Brown
Kawasaki
28
Connor McNamara
Yamaha
Tim Wallis Electrical,Joel Rizzo Coaching,North Coast KTM ,MPE Suspension ,Shephards Transport
34
Brandon Steel
Kawasaki
steel brothers racing - UNI Filter Australia - free flight mx park
51
Robbie Marshall
Honda
Terrafirma Equipment Sales Honda, Showtime, Versatile Crane Hire, Betta Home Living, Sengled, Serco
61
Dylan Groucott
Honda
62
William Quade
Honda.
70
Nathan Whitten
Yamaha
74
Brenton Inglis
Kawasaki
89
Sam Southey
Kawasaki
979 Reece Forester
Costanzo Racing - Misled - Versatile crane hire
Yamaha
97
Lachlan Okeefe
121
Mark Hewlett
Kawasaki
Strike seats - Whitehouse Morocycles - Willmax graphics - Tunetech suspension - Fox
139
Jake Williams
Yamaha
Williams Power Sports Yamaha Australia Thor RecoveR8
286 Drew Cigliano
Kawasaki
Mick Muldoon Motorcycles, Pro-Moto Suspension - Pro-Moto Suspension
300 Jarrod Groucott
Honda
316
Kawasaki
Daniel Okeefe
883 Brad Horne
Kawasaki
911
Honda
18
Kain Saul
Ballarat motorcycles - Tacular - Answer racing - Dunlop
AVAILABLE AT ROUNDS 1, 2 & 3 OF THE AUSTRALIAN SUPERCROSS CHAMPIONSHIP TEE’S, HOODIES, KIDS TEE’S, CAPS & STUBBY COOLERS SIZES: S, M, L, XL, 2XL & 3XL
Insist on Honda Genuine Oils Chemicals and Accessories Engineered for your Honda by Honda. Do yourself a favour and insist on Honda Genuine. hondagenuine.com.au
HON37207
Daryl Beattie - World 500cc Grand Prix Road Racer
The
CONTENDERS
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The 2019 Australian Supercross Championship is shaping up to be one of the most competitive seasons in history, with a host of decorated international talents preparing to face off against the best Australia has to offer in the pursuit of the coveted SX1 and SX2 championships.
The series kicks off at Brisbane Entertainment Centre, a venue that is no stranger to the entertaining and unpredictable sport of supercross, last having hosted a round of the series in 2014. The tight confines 9500-seat arena will serve up aggressive racing across all classes, making for a thrilling start to the 2019 championship.
The lap-times will be short and the opportunities to pass will be minimal, meaning the only way to progress through the field will be to bang bars in the traditional supercross manner.
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Leading the charge and looking to secure his fourthconsecutive Australian championship will be Penrite Honda Racing’s Justin Brayton, who has recently signed a deal with Team Honda HRC for his world championship campaign in 2020.
The newly-signed contract is a massive coup for the American in the later stages of his career, and with it will come an array of factory components from the Honda Racing Corporation.
“The aim is to defend [my championship] and add a fourth to the belt,” Brayton commented. “I’m under no illusion that it’ll be an easy defence though, with a lot of good guys putting that target on my back and wanting the SX1 championship. I’m expecting a few guys to step up and make it difficult, however, I’m confident in my preparation and believe that I can get the job done.”
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Brayton is set to face one of the strongest Australian fields in 2019, which will make his bid for a fourth-straight crown his toughest feat yet. One of his closest rivals is in fact his teammate and former AMA Supercross regular, Brett Metcalfe - the South Australian being the only local to defeat Brayton in 2018.
Often underestimated, Metcalfe brings a wealth of experience to the table and, despite being 35 years of age, the number 24 is as hungry as ever to earn an Australian title.
Then there’s multi-time champion Dan Reardon, who returns with the powerhouse squad of CDR Yamaha Monster Energy - a championship-winning combination that’s sure to yield race wins and podiums. Reardon completed the 2018 series in third with a number of podiums to his name, and now that’s he’s back on a factory YZ450F with the all-important team infrastructure, he could upset Brayton’s title defence.
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Displaying his potential in last year’s championship and coming off an incredible MX Nationals campaign is the rider on the other side of the CDR awning, Luke Clout. The youthful New South Welshman is full of talent, skill and excitement, and certainly isn’t afraid to let it hang out. He’s blossomed since joining the championship-proven CDR Yamaha Monster Energy squad, and he’ll be one to watch, especially with his newfound form this season
Recently-crowned Australian motocross champion Todd Waters will make his first attempt at the SX1 crown since 2017 aboard the DPH Motorsport Husqvarna FC 450, however, a pre-season hand injury could see the likeable Queenslander make a slower start to the series than anticipated. Either way, you can bet he’ll having a blast and making the most of being in front of an electric crowd.
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Two-time Australian SX2 champion Jackson Richardson will be making his graduation to the premier class in a privateer effort aboard Honda machinery, adding another element to the already exciting category. A born showman, fan-favourite Richardson can really turn it on when the gates drop, and just because it’s his rookie season, doesn’t mean he should be overlooked when it comes race podiums.
Amongst the list of favourites are riders such as Empire Kawasaki duo Dylan Long and Lawson Bopping, Jesse Dobson (Husqvarna) and Richie Evans (Yamalube Yamaha Racing), who will make an impact on the results sheets.
The talent pool is deep in the SX2 category, making for an incredibly unpredictable series ahead. Of course, the favourite is defending Australian champion Jay Wilson, who will don the number one plate for the first time in his career in 2019.
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The Yamalube Yamaha Racing contender was extremely strong in the opening rounds of his successful campaign one year ago and he’s expected to come out swinging from the get-go as he looks to add another title to his collection.
America will have a strong presence in the SX2 ranks too, with Mitchell Oldenburg and Chris Blose pairing up at Penrite Honda Racing, while Bradley Taft pilot an Empire Kawasaki KX250. Jacob Hayes will link up again with Serco Yamaha after a stellar showing down under in 2018, while Josh Osby (Raceline KTM Thor) will also return for his secondconsecutive campaign in Australia with the factory KTM team.
“I’ve watched the Australian Supercross Championship expand over the last couple seasons, and was pretty eager to be involved,” said Oldenburg. “I’m super thankful for the opportunity to come and race with Penrite Honda – it’s going to be awesome to spend the summer in Australia and go after an international championship.”
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Oldenburg, Blose and Hayes are the clear standouts of the internationals and will definitely be challenging for the championship, while Osby and Taft can’t be discounted either.
The influx of Americans has fuelled the desire of our local talents, such as Serco Yamaha’s Aaron Tanti. The now Queensland-based contender has always been strong in supercross, and now equipped with the proven YZ250F, it could be the year he rises in the challenging discipline.
Fresh from representing Team Australia at the Motocross of Nations, Kyle Webster returns to further establish himself in supercross. Somewhat of an underdog in the discipline, the Penrite Pirelli CRF Honda Racing rider is no stranger to scoring podiums in the SX2 category, and despite his preparations being interrupted by the MXoN, he’s still one to watch.
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KTM privateer, racing with the support of Davey Motorsports, is the popular Dylan Wills. With an Under 19s supercross crown to his name, the New South Welshman has always excelled in the championship. A strong supercross season will be beneficial to his career and he’s more than capable of being a regular podium contender.
MXD champion and Team Australia MXoN member Regan Duffy (Raceline KTM Thor) will make his supercross debut, as will outdoor rival Maximus Purvis (WBR Yamaha), while SX2 regular Tomas Ravenhorst (KTM), Connor Tierney (Yamaha), Kaleb Barham (Husqvarna) and Morgan Fogarty (Davey Motorsports KTM) will all be behind the gates.
The Australian Supercross Championship will span five rounds in 2019, with Brisbane Entertainment Centre playing host for the opener on 12 October. The series then heads to Port Adelaide, South Australia, the next weekend on 19 October, followed by Wollongong in New South Wales on 9 November. It then crosses the Tasman to New Zealand on 16 November, before concluding in Melbourne, Victoria’s Marvel Stadium on 30 November.
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CALM BEFORE THE STORM The holeshot. One of the most critical parts on a supercross circuit. It’s you against 21 of Australia’s best going head to head chasing that chequered flag.
FLIP YOUR PHONE HORIZONTAL TO VIEW THE FULL IMAGE
suzukimotorcycles.com.au
TAKE FULL CONTROL The WiFi enabled 2020 RM-Z250 can be tuned using a phone app that changes the fuel and ignition mapping and performance of the motorcycle for various track conditions. Suzuki’s RM-Z250 and MX Tuner takes full control of the track.
SUZUKI MX WI-FI TUNER & APP
46
JAY WILSON THE REIGNING CHAMPION After going pro when he was only 16 and not missing a single season of racing since, at only 24 years of age, Jay Wilson is considered a veteran. But the exciting thing about that is that his best years of racing are still ahead of him. For 2019 we see Jay wielding the red #1 plate on his YZ250F race machine in the SX2 class. With the competition stronger than ever we sit down with the reigning champ leading into Round 1 of the Australian Supercross Championship on October 12th.
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We are just a few days away from heading into Round 1 of the Australian Supercross Championship, how does it feel being defending SX2 Champion? I can still remember when I saw my bike with the red number one plates on for the first time this season. As a racer you work tirelessly for that feeling and to win a championship. I have won a few titles now, but I’ve never been in the position to defend it – I’ve either moved up a class, been overseas, or changed numbers or something so to be able to run the number one plate is an awesome feeling and it’s one I definitely want to keep.
With that being said, do you feel any pressure in terms of running the red plate? I think defending a championship is always going to come with it’s pressures, but honestly, and the people who know me will confirm this, I put enough pressure on myself daily without focusing on anyone else. Whenever I line up to race it’s about putting all of my training and sacrifices to work, so regardless of what colour numbers I have on my bike that’s the goal. Obviously we are all out there to win, I’m realistic about that, but now that I’ve got the number one plate I don’t plan on giving it up.
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Round 1 is indoors at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre, tell us about what that will be like being in another stadium this season. I haven’t raced at that particular venue before, but both Dan Reardon and myself have raced the Arenacross in the U.K and there’s definitely a certain craft about it (laughs). The Brisbane Entertainment Centre is even smaller than where we have raced in Sydney – they had a netball grand final there the other week, so that probably puts into perspective the floor space we will be working with, but the cool thing is tight racing is way better for the fans. In a tight arena you have to make stuff happen, and make it happen quickly which we have been preparing for. Also, I’ve got Bish (Scott Bishop) in my corner, and he used to race stuff like this every weekend (laughs) so he will be giving me plenty of tips, and making sure I don’t put myself in too many positions to get T-boned.
Last year there was a bit of a rivalry between yourself and Mellross, is there anyone you think this year that could be a big threat to the championship? I think with round one being indoors it’s going to really shake things up this year. It’s very different racing in a stadium to being outdoors, and as we have seen over the years at AUS-X Open, anything can happen in a stadium environment. I think anyone with experience racing those kinds of conditions is going to be good. We have a handful of American guys and also some talented Aussies in the mix so it’s going to be an interesting championship, but I’m not calling any rivalries just yet.
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What are your thoughts on all the American’s racing here? You know, I see a lot of people trolling online whenever an American is announced, everyone saying that teams should give privateers a chance and stuff, but in all honesty the Americans make us better. If you look back over the last few years, especially in the 250 class, an Aussie has actually won the title. The guys from the U.S have got skills, and if anything we should all be using them being here as an opportunity to learn and be better. I don’t doubt that there are good privateers here, and that given the chance they might get some decent results, but at the end of the day, teams have to make decisions in the best interests of their sponsors and brands. The American guys help to get bums on seats, they create rivalries and interesting racing, and for sponsors it justifies the money they put in, so we should be grateful that they’re here, not trying to send them back and keeping our championship exclusively Australian. This is the second year in a row that you’re working with the Yamalube Yamaha guys, what’s it like being a part of that team? The cool thing about working with Yamaha is that we have the best machinery before we even get to the track. Then, you throw the people that we are working with in there and that’s why we are successful. Mike Ward, my mechanic has won more championships with riders than any other guy in the industry and it’s because he knows exactly what needs to be done to get the job done. Himself and Scott Bishop don’t take short cuts, and as a rider that not only makes my job easier but it makes me want to work harder for them. We all have a history together, even before 2018 and 2019 we have raced as a team, but these last two seasons have been really special. We know each other inside out, we know our program and how it works and it means that a lot of the time, what we do is a lot of fun together. I believe these guys are the best at what they do, which is the ultimate situation to be in when you’re trying to or winning championships.
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You recently announced that after Supercross here you will be heading to the U.S to race the AMA 250cc West Coast Supercross championship, how did that come about? After we won the title last year, myself, Josh Coppins and Mike Ward all discussed whether it was the right time to go over and race a few rounds, but I actually broke my wrist in qualifying at AUS-X Open, and the championship was pretty taxing on not only my body, but my mind so we really needed to have the time to plan it properly and get a solid program in place. We started planning to race the first five rounds of the 2020 AMA Supercross in January this year so it’s been a work in progress. Josh, Wardy, Misty, Poppy and myself are all a part of the trip and we will be doing it as a team. For me, it was really important to duplicate the program we have here for the U.S because I feel like that is what makes us so successful. We believe in what we do, so if we can create something similar over there, we have the best shot at getting some good results.
Throughout motocross this year, both Misty and Poppy weren’t there; will you have the home team at Supercross? This year has been super busy for our family – Misty was doing her Yoga Teacher Training nearly every weekend and it made it impossible to all be at the races together. That’s all done now though, so the girls will be with me in Brisbane and a few of the other rounds. It will be nice to have us three together again – it puts me in a good headspace; they’re a big part of why I do what I do.
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Lastly, what do you hope to get out of this Supercross season? In 2018, if I’m honest we really didn’t know if I had it in me to win a championship that quickly coming off the two years I had had, so to win last year was a huge achievement, relief, and most of all it was motivating. I think we showed that regardless of what life throws at us, we aren’t going anywhere – we will rebuild and come back time and time again. This year for me it’s really about putting all of the lessons we have learnt to work. I obviously want to win the Supercross Championship here, but I also want to show what we can do in America. If we can do those things, and do it while having fun, I’ll be the happiest guy on earth.
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LEFT IN THE DUST The SX2 Class always providing the fans with high speed, bar-to-bar, action packed racing. Who will reign supreme in the 2019 Championship?
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Honda Racing Australia work with American Honda to build Justin Brayton’s 2020 CRF450R HRC race weapon. This collaboration between both countries came about to ensure Brayton felt comfortable on the factory Honda ahead of the 2020 AMA Supercross Championship, allowing the Australian Supercross Championship to be its debut. All involved are very excited to see this special CRF450R in action down under. “American Honda’s successful history in racing and development gives our riders and customers the best possible machinery, so we welcomed this collaboration and we appreciate and respect their knowledge. Honda Racing is one brand and we are all aligned with their global objectives. Our end goal is to win and be as competitive as possible, we can’t wait to get out there and race!” Said team owner Yarrive Konsky. General Manager of Honda Motorcycles Australia, Tony Hinton understands the importance of the alignment and is pleased to see this project come to life. 58
“We were really happy to hear that Justin signed with Factory Honda in America for 2020. We have enjoyed unprecedented success with him and agree it’s so important that he rides a familiar set-up to be as prepared as he can be for both Championships.”
The bike boasts a mix of Factory American Honda, HRC and Australian Factory Honda Racing components. The hydraulic clutch, the map switch, wiring, ECU and harnesses all works (HRC) components. This will be the first time Brayton will race with the Works hydraulic clutch on his CRF450 in Australia. The forks and Shocks are factory as well, these components are married up to Works pull rods and links as well as triple clamps.
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Testing started in America. Yarrive flew out to America for Brayton’s first leg of his international campaign in Montreal, Canada. Testing began in August.
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Trust your suspension when you’re hitting the whoops as fast as Brayton does. He is known as one of the quickest through the whoops. In fact Carmichael has stated on the US broadcast that Brayton and Australia’s very own Chad Reed are two current races who can hit the whoops the fastest.
American Honda has also provided factory Nissin brake callipers and master cylinders. Honda Racing Australia provided the rotors, which are by Motostuff. Showa has provided Brayton with factory suspension since his return to Honda, which coincidently was with Honda Racing Australia in 2016. No two riders are the same and that’s the benefit of having Factory Suspension and professional suspension tuners. Everything can and is customised. Brayton will also run Renthal sprockets and bars (997 bend) The team choose DID chain, DID DirtStar rims and production NGK spark plugs. EZE provides the wheels and has provided Honda Racing Australia for more than 10 years. SKDA provides the graphics. Topline in Frankston, Victoria provides the teams seat covers. The team runs VP ROO 100 fuel. Cycra provide the full plastics kits and Works Connection provide radiator guards and start buttons. Brayton will be racing this 2020 Honda CRF450R with factory HRC race parts for the first time at round 1 of the Australian Supercross Championship this weekend in Brisbane. 61
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