Inside Dirt - Issue 17: MX Nationals Round 2 by MX Nationals

TRACK TALK WELCOME TO APPIN

RIDERS TIPS KEYS TO A SOLID PRESEASON

pg. 41

pg. 19

PLUG CHOP INTERVIEW WITH LUKE CLOUT

AUSSIES ABROAD

pg. 35

pg. 65

STATEMENT SENT THOR MX1 COMPETITORS LEFT CHASING REDEMPTION AS FERRIS IS FLAWLESS AT ROUND 1, CLAIMING SUPERPOLE & BOTH MOTO WINS.

ROUND 2 APPIN

MX NATIONALS

ISSUE 17 17.04.2017

Get something extra when you ride with #teampirelli TODD WATERS CRANKT TEAM HONDA RACING

When you choose to ride on Pirelli Scorpion MX you know you ride on the same tyre our Pro riders at #teampirelli use. The Championship winning MX32, the new MX32 Pro for harder terrain MX racing, the versatile Scorpion MX Extra X or the Junior sized MX Extra J. All born from the same Pirelli message – We sell what we race, we race what we sell.

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Now for the 2017 Aussie Motocross Season, when you buy your tyres you get a set of Factory Scorpion MX Sidewall stickers just like those on Todd’s bike. See your local dealer. Ride with #teampirelli.

MAGIC MOMENT

FULL GATE A fresh season brings upon fresh faces to the start gate. The opening round at Wonthaggi saw a full grid of riders in each class battle it out for the top spot.

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JAYDEN RYKERS Rainy conditions were less than ideal for competitors, Jayden Rykers found himself tasting the local dirt while chasing down Wilson Todd and Jackson Richardson.

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We are back!

WHATS INSIDE

Inside Dirt is ready for another huge year of all things off-road and dirt bikes, and we’re pumped to be bringing you our first issue for 2017. It’s been eight long months since the Motul MX Nationals wrapped up at Coolum, which means lucky for us, there’s been plenty happening during the time in between to share with you guys, our readers! The pre-season is now wrapped up, riders have settled in to their new teams, and close to 100 athletes have put round one behind them and are ready to charge towards a championship over the next nine more rounds. In this issue, we’ll look at what it takes to prepare for a full season of racing, what it’s like to start a professional race team, plenty of one on one interviews as well as a stack more content to keep you occupied until the second gate drops at Appin. So jump in and read up. This is going to be one hotly contested championship, and Inside Dirt is going to be your complete off-road digital destination for 2017.

Behind the Gate

Riders Tips

What’s Trending

MW Plug Chop - Luke Clout

Track Talk

Race Recap - Dean Ferris

Race Recap - Wilson Todd

GoPro Gallery

Aussies Abroad

Akrapovic Feature

Virtual Series - Rd 1 Recap

Hit & Miss

Round 2 Schedule

102 MX1 Round Recap 112 MX2 Round Recap 122 MXD Round Recap 132 Offtrack Gallery 138 MXN Team Press & Gallery

ID ISSUE #17

TRACK TALK What to expect at Round 2 of the MX Nationals at Appin Page 56

AUSSIES ABROAD Check in with our Australian riders that are competing in the MXGP. Page 65

74 RIDERS TIPS Keys to a solid preseason! Page 28

+ ROUND 1 VIRTUAL SERIES RACE RECAP Read about all the action from Round 1 of the 2017 MX Nationals Virtual Series

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ROUND 2 VIRTUAL TRACK MAP RELEASED Time to jump aboard and take a lap around this weekendâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Round 2 race circuit Appin. Experience every scrub, jump, whip and turn in our official Thor Track Map.

OR F E

EE R F

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Y R E

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W O D

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BEHIND THE GATES Last year was one of the biggest the Motul MX Nationals has had since we began. We celebrated 20 years operating under Williams Event Management, and welcomed back some of the fastest riders in the country to contest our Championship. Throughout the season there were highs, lows and controversies. We had empathic race wins, we had riders crash out of rounds but what was the most exciting part of 2016 was that we got to wait until the final moto at the final round at Coolum to crown our champions. When we look back on last year’s racing, the way that Dean Ferris eventually

won the MX1 title, or that the underdog Jed Beaton got up at the final round to take the MX2 crown, and of course the way that Mitch Evans recovered from a shaky start to the season to finish on top in the MXD class, it’s easy to wonder how on earth 2016 could ever be topped. But, in 2017 this season is looking like it could be just the year to do it. In the MX1 class there’s a number of things that are exciting me about the season ahead. One, Brett Metcalfe is back. It’s very cool that after all these years of racing overseas, that a rider of his calibre has returned home with his family to contest our championship. Last year

Metcalfe was here for a mere four rounds, and during those four outings he proved that if he was here longer then a few championship contenders would have a real fight for the title on their hands…. Let’s see what this year brings Metcalfe! The other guy I’m looking forward to watching is Kade Mosig. He’s had a rough season last year and now he’s stepped back to the familiar with DPH Motorsports. It’s going to be a bit of a make or break season for the Victorian, he’s in his late 20s, yet to win a championship, and desperately trying to keep his career alive, but if there’s one place I think it could happen its with the well supported

“BRETT METCALFE IS BACK. IT’S VERY COOL THAT AFTER ALL THESE YEARS OF RACING OVERSEAS, THAT A RIDER OF HIS CALIBRE HAS RETURNED HOME WITH HIS FAMILY TO CONTEST OUR CHAMPIONSHIP.” _________ KEVIN WILLIAMS SPEAKS ABOUT THE RETURN OF BRETT METCALFE

DPH Motorsports privateer race team. They have the passion, drive, and talent to win championships and with Mosig needing to win more than ever in 2017, this just might be his time to shine…. If his 2,2 results at round one are anything to go by, he might just be able to make it happen. Throw in the likes of the flawless Dean Ferris, Todd Waters, Kirk Gibbs and then the young guns Nathan Crawford, Dylan Long, and Luke Clout and this year’s MX1 Championship could very well top the 2016 title chase. In the MX2 category, during the lead up to round one I was very excited to see Jackson Richardson in action. He’s a rider who’s spent the majority of his career

racing in America so to see him make the transition to domestic racing here in Australia is going to be very interesting. But he’s going to have one hell of a fight on his hands in Wilson Todd. Wilson showed at round one a whole new maturity. He was patient, calculated and smooth – all of which are required in order to win championships. He won the first round and I’m looking forward to seeing what he’s got up his sleeve at Appin. Finally, the MXD class is always one of my favourites to watch. For a number of riders in that category it’s the very first year that they’ve lined up as professional racers at a national championship – the nerves are high, and every rider is

“....THIS IS THE BEGINNING OF YET ANOTHER REWARDING AND EXCITING YEAR AT THE HELM. ” frantically trying to figure out where he or she fits in to the equation. The MXD class builds our future champions, and already we have promising former junior talent like Morgan Fogarty and Cody Dyce who have landed themselves rides with MX Nationals teams for this season. For me, the MXD class is one of the real highlights of running the championship – they’re our future of our sport, and in five or so years time, will be the ones standing on the top step of the MX2 or MX1 class saying ‘I made it’. As always, we’ve worked hard during our off-season in preparation for this year. We’ve locked in new and old partners of the series, there’s been new track signage made, new equipment, and of course we saw huge numbers at our season opener which makes every bit of the work worthwhile. Our primary focus is on producing the highest level of racing that this country has to offer and we’re excited to see all of that work become a reality once again in 2017.

For me, this is the beginning of yet another rewarding and exciting year at the helm. We hope that you, our fans enjoy this season as much as we do. May the best man win! Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s go 2017.

RIDERS TIPS KEYS TO A SOLID PRESEASON

Hi everyone and welcome to another year of MX Nationals and inside dirt magazine! I’m thrilled to be continuing my role commentating the series via MXLIVE on NRGTV and to be bringing you all my “Coaches tips” articles for 2017. So let’s get into it for another year with the usual preseason hype every rider has around them! A lot of riders do things right in the preseason and many fall into the mistakes I’ve outlined in this article below that I’ve named “self sabotage in the preseason”. How often do you hear this statement… “I feel really good on the bike, this has been my best preseason ever.. I’m ready to win” Whether it is on ESPN for Supercross or at the local track, I hear it all the time! I also see many of the same riders making these sentiments almost always end up with the same results year after year, or end up injured and on the MIA list half of the year. They never seem to progress past a certain point. Story By: Joe Stevens

PREPARATION To put this article into context I’m going to base it right here in Australia, with an example of a local rider chasing the MX Nationals dream. So what exactly has made this preseason so much better than the previous years? Well our example rider has been hooked up by manufacturer XYZ from dealership ABC and is also rocking some fresh gear. His new bikes went straight to the Suspension company and his set up is dallied in! Now the bare essentials are covered it’s time for.. you’ve guessed it folks.. MOTOS!!! Our example rider is going to spend the next four months over preseason smashing his body, bike, motor and basically all equipment into the ground and likely spend half of his yearly budget riding three times per week at the local tracks to prepare for the racing season! But he has forgotten one thing.. his fitness was pretty good last year and the reason he did not achieve his goals and decided to take some time off half way through last season was because of the not so obvious secret he’s failed to realize. He has not once worked on any of his riding weaknesses! Be it his corner technique, starts, gear and line selection.. the list go’s on. Like so many riders I see, he has made it to a level fast enough to be competitive in his class, (be it MXD, MX2 or MX1) and now he’s decided that bike time is the only thing to make him faster! I see so many riders who have great talent, drive and ambition to be the best they can be. Unfortunately they are literally wasting their time and either their own or sponsors money! And here is why..

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Find people who can identify why you are struggling and introduce a plan for you to fix it!â&#x20AC;?

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Mentors come under different titles, but their goal is the same. To help make you the best rider you can be.â&#x20AC;?

Riding by yourself at the practice track three times per week is good for one thing! Reinforcing bad habits and the same mistakes you’ve always made! If you played a team sport, your off season would consist of coaching drills and boot camps leading into the game season. The guess work is taken away from you as a player. The team knows you can play, they hired you! It’s now the coach’s job to improve your game in all aspects and make you better! So…if we take this comparison into Motocross, you are a privateer looking to get better results next season. The race season is now over and it’s time to formulate a game plan as to why you struggled at race events and where you need to improve. Let’s say it’s rutted corners that were your weakness.. is throwing down scrubs all day over the Instagram booters at your local track going to help you in any way come race time? Likely not! In the same sense if consistency was your weakness at the races and you spend 20 minute motos at the track three times per week “pretty sure I was doing consistent laps” with no stopwatch data to back that up, are you really seeing any progress? Nope! I could go on with examples.. but how does a rider fix this? The bottom line is everyone needs a mentor, training partner, coach, mechanic.. whatever you wish to call it. Essentially it’s the same thing. Someone who spends time at the practice and race track with you and can help with your training program because they can see what you are doing on the track. Most fast juniors have this in the form of a parent, however sometimes parents can be a little too emotional to be objective about the race that just unfolded and to be able to analyze why the junior got passed on the last corner. As riders progress into seniors and the pro ranks, parents take a back seat and their knowledge pool is limited to help progress their rider past a certain point in the professional racing arena. This often leaves young pro riders searching for answers and often peers to help them take that next step.

It’s very difficult to view your riding objectively from your first person viewpoint of a race. It takes a second pair of eyes viewing your racing off the track and seeing what the other riders are doing better than you. Without being able to identify your weaknesses it is very difficult to formulate a plan to improve on your performance! Many of the top pro’s no longer have riding coaches, but they do however, have a mechanic who is with them everyday doing moto’s and who knows their riding inside out, along with fast training partners and a team manager who’s sole purpose is to make them winning machines. Mentors come under different titles, but their goal is the same. To help make you the best rider you can be. The most common answer I get as a riding coach from riders is this; “ I can’t afford a coach, I need all my money for racing”. I understand and believe me I’ve been there myself, as a privateer money is tight. But WASTING your money is even worse. Let’s say you ride three times per week. That’s $50 per day in track fees, plus fuel, food and bike maintenance. Let’s round that up to $400 per week for absolutely NO RETURN on your investment because you are simply reinforcing bad habits and making little to no progress. It’s not about quantity but rather quality. As an alternative I would recommend you ride twice a week and save the additional $100 per week and add that to a coaching, mechanic, suspension testing, fitness trainer etc fund. Now you are actively seeking out professional people who will make your time at the track MAKE A DIFFERENCE!!

My advice to all aspiring riders, seniors and juniors along with their families is this. Invest in your program wisely. Seek out quality technicians, coaches and mentors. Does it cost money? Yes.. but it actually costs less than wasting money week in and out with additional bike maintenance, injuries from poor riding technique and simply burning fuel at your local track. Find people who can identify why you are struggling and introduce a plan for you to fix it! Wasting time, money and talent is no excuse when the people are out there who can make a positive difference to your riding and all aspects of your life! Thanks for reading everyone, make sure to say hi at Appin this coming weekend and if you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t make it tune into NRGTV for all the live racing action Sunday on MXLIVE.

C O

A C H I N G

WITH JOE STEVENS AND #TEAMMAD PRIVATE TUITION AND GROUP COACHING / SCHOOL HOLIDAY CAMPS. ALL LEVELS OF RIDERS CATERED FOR: PRO RACERS TO BEGINNER RIDERS. CONTACT JOE STEVENS P: 0404059168 E: JOE@MADSPTC.COM

whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

TRENDING

2018 JAPAN SPY PHOTOS | SUZUKI The Suzuki MXGP team unveiled the pre-production 2018 Suzuki RM-Z450 several weeks ago and have been enjoying mixed results with Kevin Strijbos and Arminas Jasikonis. Oddly enough, detailed photos or information about the bike have been scarce from the European media. Source: http://motocross.transworld.net 28

BREAKDOWN | TAKEN BY FORCE With three races left in this 2017 season, Tomac has won enough races to make up for his terrible start to the season, tying Dungey for the points lead. With all of the “chase” talk leading up to this season, that’s exactly what we have to end this season. The points are reset and there are really only two riders with a legitimate shot. Source: motocross.transworld.net

2017 SEATTLE SX | RACE DAY LIVE Check out all the action from round fourteen of the 2017 Monster Energy Supercross Series. Source: motocross.transworld.net

2017 SEATTLE SX | GOPRO ONBOARD GoPro stuck their popular Hero5 and Hero5 session camera to some of the top riders during the 2017 Seattle SX and captured the incredible action. Below are videos from Davi Millsaps and Shane McElrath as they raced their main events on the challenging track at CenturyLink Field. Enjoy… Source: motocross.transworld.net

ROLL-OFFS STAND UP TO TEST OF WONTHAGGI NATIONAL It was a relatively smooth transition from tear-offs to roll-offs at Wonthaggi’s season-opening round of the 2017 Motul MX Nationals, with minimal issues reported throughout the day’s racing. Source: motoonline.com.au

MXSTORE | PRIVATEER DOLLARS MXStore are proud to announce that in 2017, any privateer who enters the MX Nationals in MX1, MX2 or MXD will receive $100 Dollars to spend at MXStore Source: mxstore.com

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TA R G E T LU K E C LO U T He led for a portion of the second MX1 moto at Wonthaggi, and believe it or not it was only his second race aboard The Crankt Protein Honda Racing CRF 450R. Luke Clout is the MX1 rookie with plenty of fight in him. He’s already proved he has the speed to run with the top guys and turned plenty of heads at his first outing at Round 1. We caught up with the Factory Honda rider from New South Wales to find out how he’s settling in to the new MX1 class, what the transition to the more powerful bike has been like, and whether or not he thinks he’s got an MX1 championship in him in the next few years. 35

LC4 How are you settling in to riding the 450? I’m really starting to settle in and enjoy it now. It was a new step for me and I’m still learning but it’s all coming together nicely.

What’s been the biggest challenge with the 450? I think just learning to ride the bike properly. The 450 has so much more power and if you don’t know how to ride it properly you can get into trouble really quick. I think just learning to ride it correctly and being There was a lot of hype about the 2017 patient has been the biggest challenge Honda, is the bike what you expected it for me. to be? Yeah it definitely is. The bike is definitely a What’s been the easiest thing about great bike. Being lighter, and with all the moving to the 450? new changes it really helped me jumping I would have to say the overall power. to a 450 from a 250 so much easier and Just if you make a mistake you can power I’m really enjoying it. out and not lose as much time compared to the 250. The team you’re on for 2017 is completely new for you, how are you What has it been like having Todd as a settling in there? teammate so far? It was a massive change for me signing It’s been good, we get on well so it’s been with the Crankt Protein Honda Racing a fun year so far Team, but everyone has been awesome to work with and I’ve really been enjoying What are your expectations for this myself and how everything is being season? operated. It’s been a good transition to I just want to be consistently up there with the 450 for me. the guys and keep doing what I’m doing. I want to just continue to learn and build, What has it been like having Todd as a then by the end of the year I want to be teammate so far? on the podium and I definitely want to he It’s been good, we get on well so it’s been fighting for wins, I think that is definitely a fun year so far achievable 36

Being your rookie year do you think you’re at a major disadvantage compared to the top guys? It is a bit of a disadvantage - I’ve never raced a 450 and hardly ever raced these guys before, plus I’ve never rode a 450 on these tracks, so I’m behind the 8 ball with everything, but I’m learning though and enjoying the experience so far. You were meant to be racing in America this year, do you still want to race internationally or now that you’re on the 450 are you planning on keeping your career in Aus? Without a doubt I want to get back to the US. I think I can do well there, I just didn’t have the right opportunity over there, but that’s for later down the track. Right now I’m enjoying being home and racing the 450.

Do you think your American racing experience gives you an advantage over guys like Gibbsy, Crawford, And Long who haven’t raced overseas? Yes and no. I believe racing internationally does help with my speed and fitness and makes you a better rider, but we have world class riders in Australia so it’s not so much of a disadvantage for those guys who haven’t raced overseas yet. At the end of Supercross last year you were pretty vocal in saying that if you didn’t get a ride that you wouldn’t race, do you think it’s getting tougher for top guys to secure full time racing deals for decent money these days? I definitely do, I think it’s hard for the riders to get what they are worth these days.

Do you think you can win an MX1 championship in the next two years? Without a doubt, I believe I can win a championship in the coming years. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m a hard worker, I enjoy racing, and I enjoy winning even more. Thanks for the chat Luke, good luck at Appin. No problems thank you

UPCOMING ROUNDS

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ROUND 2 - APPIN

ROUND 3 - CONONDALE

Can Ferris go back to back at Appin and retain the red plate?

MX Nationals heads to Conondale for the third round of the series

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ROUND 4 - HORSHAM

ROUND 5 - MURRAY BRIDGE

See Australias top riders battle it out at the fourth round of the MX

This round we head to Murray Bridge for the Retro Round of the

Nationals in Horsham

MX Nationals

VIEW THE WEBSITE FOR MORE INFO

TRACK TALK WELCOME TO ROUND 2 AT APPIN

AS THE 2017 MOTUL MX NATIONALS PUTS ROUND ONE IN THE BOOKS, RIDERS AND TEAMS ALIKE MUST NOW LOOK TOWARDS THE ALL IMPORTANT PREPARATION FOR ROUND TWO. WONTHAGGI, THE HOST OF ROUND ONE WAS AN UNPREDICTABLE SURFACE BUT IN THE END TURNING FROM A DENSE CHOCOLATE CAKE DIRT, TO A BRUTAL RUTTED OUT TRACK GIVING EVEN THE BEST SUSPENSION TECHNICIANS SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT. Words By: Aiden Williams

As the 2017 Motul MX Nationals puts round one in the books, riders and teams alike must now look towards the all important preparation for round two. Wonthaggi, the host of round one was an unpredictable surface but in the end turning from a dense chocolate cake dirt, to a brutal rutted out track giving even the best suspension technicians something to think about. The track, a complete surprise to most including myself, especially after inspecting the track only a month earlier and baring witness to what would best be described as blue groove. Yet the DMCC spent tireless effort and man hours, added with a little luck on side with the weather, and the conditions of the track come race day not only dropped the gates, but jaws as well Now onto round two, and what’s not to love about the second stop in the championship Appin. Otherwise known as the Macarthur Motorcycle club. As one drives into this spectacular facility

small jitters of excitement bubble up as you truly are immersed in a motorsport playground. Once you’ve made your way down Brian Road the facilities open up into every racers dreams, featuring a full length practice track open to ride every Tuesday, Saturday and Sunday. This alone makes it a one of a kind track in the nation. After you’ve made your way further into the facility, an enormous task was undertaken to create a man made flat track. With so much dirt being moved, one would have to see it to believe, not to mention hours and hours of enduro loops to fill all to their hearts content. With so many options for riding in one compact area it can almost be overlooked that nestled behind the trees is without a doubt one of the best Motocross racing circuits in the nation. The track, much like Wonthaggi is slightly unpredictable, but one thing is for sure however and that’s ruts. Not regular ruts, but foot peg

“..... THE LUSH GREEN GRASS AND WORLD CLASS FACILITIES. ”

TOO MUCH SPEED INTO THE ENTRANCE OF THE CORNER AND YOU WILL MISS THE DOUBLE APEX, AND GIVE YOURSELF LITTLE OPTION OTHER THEN TO BE BOTTLED WIDE INTO THE FOLLOWING CHICANE.

deep 180degree ruts, the only track on the circuit throwing claim in with Toowoomba so let’s break it down. A few things stand out to me about this facility and the obvious one is the lush green grass and world class facilities. We all watch the AMA and FIM Nationals dream of the dark soil of a freshly ripped circuit entirely lined by green grass and what a sight it is. This dream is so evident as the track itself is very tacky holding a lot of both moisture and provides maximum traction The second notable mention has to be the natural undulating ground giving spectators a first class look at the racing from anywhere around the

circuit. Viewing is crucial, because if history is anything to go by the racing will be fierce at Appin. The start straight isn’t by any means the longest on the National’s calendar but may very well be the most technical. Too much speed into the entrance of the corner and you will miss the double apex, and give yourself little option other then to be bottled wide into the following chicane. A mid to inside gate has proven strong in previous years with the odd hole shot capable from both inside and outside lines. Though there are ruts a plenty, Appin has in the past became a very difficult track to pass on

making a good start crucial. Another obstacle added this year is one to wow the crowds, not personally having seen it just whispers of a giant new step up to grace the Appin circuit will leave spectators in awe. All eyes will once again be on the reigning champ Dean Ferris as he takes to the line at round two. The number one CDR Yamaha backed Ferris once again will head into Appin with a target on his back, proving too strong at Wonthaggi with 1-1 results. Appin is a track that suits Dean, I believe there isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t an eye out there that cant be

impressed by his technical ability and flat out strait line speed. Another man with an eye on the chequered flag will be the 24 machine of Brett Metcalfe. Metty took his maiden moto win in the second moto at Appin and so often as we see these tracks that turn brutal, the experience and bulldog attitude of Metty will surely shine through. If you were lucky enough to witness round one then you would have seen the not to be taken lightly resurgence from DPH Motorsportâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Kade Mosig. Kade was the stand out guy for me and I would use one word 47

to describe it, SOLID. With 2-2 results he has proved himself as a real threat. Another appearance shown in the late stages of last year was the American import of Kyle Peters who stepped onto the scene in 2016 at Toowoomba. Peters hands down beat an unstoppable looking Dean Ferris that weekend. Back now and signed with the Wilsons Coolair Motul Facotry Suzuki racing team, Peters had poor round 1 results, but the rut specialist will be looking to make amends at Appin this weekend. Throw in more fan favourites like Luke Clout, Todd Waters, Luke Styke, the Russian import Aleksandr Tonkov and the always firing 2015 champ Kirk Gibbs and the gloves will be off at round two. The unfathomable thing is thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only the action in MX1 with three other classes to be showcased on April 23 the only place you want to be is trackside just down the end of Brian Road at Appin. If you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t make the event your not out of luck, just jump on to www.nrgtv.com.au to watch every race LIVE.

Watch Appin Virtual Track map now 48

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RACE RECAP

DEAN FERRIS Wonthaggiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s season-opening round of the 2017 Motul MX Nationals saw CDR Yamaha rider and defending MX1 champion Dean Ferris record a perfect 1-1 scorecard, while DPH Motorsport Yamaha newcomer Wilson Todd broke through for his first career MX2 victory.

Dean Ferris, the defending MX1 champion, with a perfect start to the year – you must be happy with that one. Yeah, I’m stoked! I don’t think I’ve even gone 1-1 at the MX Nationals before, last year I was winning a lot of motos but I never went 1-1 on the day. I did win a couple at Wanneroo, but then I crashed out in the other one, so it’s awesome to get Super Pole and go 1-1. I got really good starts, and everything went pretty smoothly today.

Did you feel like the New Zealand pre-season – you did a lot of racing there – did it feel pretty natural coming into here today? Yeah, I’ve been racing already for two months, every weekend – Sunny States, New Zealand and stadium-crosses. It helps me when I get to round one, when I haven’t raced, I get really tight, tense and nervous. Doing New Zealand and all those pre-season races is about getting in the groove, and that’s what is has done for me.

How would you compare your bike to last year, obviously a similar platform, but was there much development happening throughout the off-season? There was actually, there were a few things after motocross last year that we changed – little things that made a big difference, and you know, a couple of big things in the off-season that also made a big difference. So, I’m really happy with that. You know, I came off the 350 in 2015, and then I got onto the Yamaha and the package they had I thought was great. Spending a year on the Yamaha, we all thought it was time to improve what we had, because I’ve done that year on the big bike, and its improved, so I’m really happy about that.

Talk through that first moto when you were on the back of Peters, the rolloffs held in really well and you ended up getting it done. But yeah, what was that one like? It was pretty interesting and good to watch. It was strange, I had a scoop [tyre] on the back and was really strong in the sand section, I would get next to him, but I couldn’t get him. I was just playing follow the leader for the rest of the lap and always having a go in that section, so I just had to be really patient and hope that I was close enough if he made a mistake. It got to the later laps and then I really had to push myself. It was an interesting race, and a really good test for my roll-offs – they held up to it, so that’s a positive.

What about the second one, you obviously controlled the race a bit more out front. Yeah, I got into the lead on the first lap and passed [Luke] Clout. I pulled out a 3-4 second lead and kind of just stayed there the whole time – Kade [Mosig] would get a little closer, I would pull out a bit more, a lapper would get in my way, a lapper would get in his way. He rode good today, but you know, I was in the driver’s seat and that’s where I like to be. The goal this year is to get a lot more holeshots – that’s the plan. I say a lot more because I didn’t really get any last year. When I did, it made my job a lot easier – I’m really happy with my good starts today.

Well done and it was awesome to watch.

Thank you.

RACE RECAP

WILSON TODD Wonthaggiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s season-opening round of the 2017 Motul MX Nationals saw CDR Yamaha rider and defending MX1 champion Dean Ferris record a perfect 1-1 scorecard, while DPH Motorsport Yamaha newcomer Wilson Todd broke through for his first career MX2 victory.

Wilson Todd, opening round win here at Wonthaggi and you’ve got the red plate as well. You must be really happy with this result and a great way to start with the DPH team. For sure, I got out to two awesome starts, and an awesome start to the series, you know. I’m super happy to have the red plate, I mean, it’s going to come with a target on my back and a lot of pressure, but I’m going to go back to work tomorrow, I’m going to improve myself and I’m going to come back at Appin and do even better again. I’m looking forward to it.

You obviously learned a lot last year and hopefully put that experience back together for this year. Yeah for sure, in the second half of last year I really picked it up and was battling for podiums every race, and you know, I’ve come out straightaway in pretty good form, so I’m happy with that. Hopefully I can keep that form for the whole series. 58

In terms of the track today, how was it? There was obviously a bit of rain in the area to start with, but the track looked like it ended up pretty nice. Yeah, the track was pretty good. It was very narrow because we only used about half of the track, but the line that was being used ended up really well, although if you pushed too hard and went over that main line you were stuck in the mud â&#x20AC;&#x201C; thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a lot of time to be lost there.

Well done and great result, Awesome, thank you.

TRACKSIDE GAL L E R Y

N AT E A DA M S | C A P T UR E D BY JA S O N TAY LO R

AUSSIES ABROAD TAKE A LOOK AT THE RECAP FROM TRENTINO, ITALY

It was a busy weekend for Aussies abroad with the fifth instalment of the MXGP taking place at the picturesque Trentino circuit in Italy. As well as MX2 regulars Jay Wilson (iFly JK Yamaha) and Hunter Lawrence (Team Suzuki World MXGP) taking to the track amongst the mountains over the weekend, the first round of the European Motocross Championship and the second round of the FIM Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s World Motocross Championship took place, providing Jed Beaton with his first opportunity to race on

the world stage alongside fellow Aussie Caleb Grothues, while our fastest girls Maddy Brown and Emma Milesevic also took to the track. Despite the results not showing on paper at the conclusion of the round, the Australian contingent of riders showed promising results over the weekend, with fast lap times and moto finishes providing a snapshot of whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s to come throughout the lengthy World Championship season.

Hunter Lawrence who was struck experienced bike problems on just the down with illness at Leon in Mexico two opening lap and was forced to pull in weeks ago, saw the bad luck somewhat after his machine cut out, registering a follow him to Trentino on the weekend. DNF. After finishing Saturday’s qualifying Jed Beaton made his first race in 20th position, Lawrence looked appearance on the World stage at to make his way into the top ten in the Trentino on the weekend in the EMX250 first moto on Sunday, but as the race category, and despite the results not progressed Lawrence ran into trouble showing on paper the former Victorian and was forced to retire and return to the based rider showed impressive speed pits after experiencing a bike technical across both motos. After qualifying in 10th issue. In moto two, the 17-year-old in the second group of EMX250 was determined to redeem riders, Beaton earned a decent himself on the hard pack gate pick for when racing “It was a busy and technical Arco circuit, weekend for Aussies kicked off. In race one, and redeem himself he abroad with the fifth Beaton charged to an did. Lawrence raced impressive 14th place, instalment of the to an impressive 11th but unfortunately, MXGP taking place place finish at Trentino, much like his fellow at the picturesque placing him in 16th Australians bad luck Trentino circuit in overall for the weekend struck the Honda rider in Italy.” and 16th in the MX2 only the first turn in moto Championship standings. two. Beaton went down in turn Fellow MX2 rider Jay Wilson one and was forced to re-join the race also experienced technical problems at in close to dead last. However, Beaton Trentino on the weekend. Wilson who was a man on a mission and despite the has taken his time to settle into the World shaky start, clawed his way back to 26th Championship circuit, raced to 27th place position, putting him in 24th overall for in Saturday’s qualifying race, just seven the round. Caleb Grothues unfortunately positions behind fellow countryman did not qualify for racing in the EMX250 Lawrence. When racing commenced on class on the weekend. Sunday Wilson raced to a comfortable Finally, Maddy Brown and Emma 23rd place on what was a fast and Milesevic both took to the track for challenging Italian track. Unfortunately, in the second round of the Women’s moto two, luck was not on Wilson’s side. Championship at Trentino. With Despite getting to a decent start, Wilson qualifying placing Milesevic in 13th and 68

Brown in 24th, the anticipation was high when gates dropped on the first moto. And it was in similar positions that the pair finished in moto one â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Milesevic collecting 14th, while Brown improved from her qualifying position to cross the line in 20th. In moto two however both girls were handed their share of bad luck for the weekend, with Brown wrapping up the race in 31st and Milesevic finishing the final race at Trentino in 35th. The next round of the MXGP will be held at Valkenswaard on the 23rd of April 2017. To stay up to date with how the Australians are performing overseas, head to www.mxgp.com

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KYLE PETERS It was almost the perfect start for the American import Kyle Peters, leading reigning champion Dean Ferris down to the wire before losing the spot, and suffering a mechanical issue late in the moto to drop out of contention.

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“AKRAPOVIČ IS THE WORLD’S LEADING MANUFACTURER AND SUPPLIER OF PREMIUM EXHAUST SYSTEMS” Akrapovič is the world’s leading manufacturer and supplier of premium exhaust systems for motorcycles and performance cars. It operates from state-ofthe art production facilities and technologically advanced R&D departments in Slovenia (Europe), which include an in-house titanium foundry, a metallurgical laboratory, several motorcycle and car dynamometers, and high-tech production machinery. The company was founded in 1991 by Igor Akrapovič, himself an accomplished motorcycle racer, who saw the need for tuning and exhaust improvements for his fellow racers, and this in turn led to the global company that exists today. Akrapovič is a pioneer in the innovative use of lightweight

titanium and super-alloys, and is at the forefront of carbon components. Its exhaust systems are renowned for increasing performance, unmistakable sound, innovative design, lightweight construction, quality workmanship, and durability. With its roots firmly based in racing, it is no wonder that this tradition still runs strongly through the company’s veins. It works with top teams in many off-road disciplines, including MXGP, MX2, World Enduro Championship, and Cross-Country Rallies. Along with the road-racing teams that Akrapovič cooperates with on the international stage, this has led to over 100 world championships by teams using Akrapovič exhaust systems.

This involvement with top teams at the highest echelons of competition allows Akrapovič to develop exhausts for racers and to use this technology to develop innovative products for commercial users. This constant link is exemplified by the fact that Team Suzuki World MXGP is racing a Suzuki RMZ450WS bike with an Akrapovič exhaust on it that will have a version of the bike in serial production in 2018. Akrapovič has developed the racing system for the factory racing MXGP team; when that bike is available in stores, Akrapovič will have an exhaust for it that is very close to the one the racing team uses. When Akrapovič develops a system for a racing bike, it stringently follows the FIM rules on sound limits. This has led to the company changing the way it measures these levels. Using the latest technologies, Akrapovič has produced exhausts that deliver optimum performance within the regulations, while still giving the bike that unique Akrapovič racing tone. Even as the sound limits have fallen, Akrapovič has been extracting more power each time it develops a new race exhaust. The company measures the bike on inhouse dynos, along with outside measurements of the sound. The motorcycle is then taken to the MX track to check the performance there, as well as the sound, making sure everything is proven on the track – the bike’s real environment.

Other priorities are also taken into consideration with a racing exhaust, and these are also a mainstay in the production of any product that makes its way to the retail world. Lower weight, durability, and ease of use and fit are all important factors. The same materials for racing and serial production are used to ensure there is no compromise on the end product, whether it is for world championship racing or a weekend ride with friends at the local track or on dirt roads. The Akrapovič R&D team uses the racing experience of colleagues from the Racing R&D department to develop a serial product, giving end users the assurance that they are getting the very best. Akrapovič manufactures three types of exhaust systems for the aftermarket arena. The Slip-On Line, which is considered the initial step in exhaust modification, is a perfect introductory product, providing increased performance, lower weight, and an enhanced sound. The Evolution Line is the best exhaust from Akrapovič and a very close relative to what racing teams are using. It features a full system that has impressive power and torque increases, and improved throttle control, greater weight reductions, and an even more impressive sound, all constructed using the latest durable lightweight titanium and titanium alloys, with some parts cast in Akrapovič’s in-house titanium foundry; the company is the only exhaust manufacturer with such a facility. The third is the Racing Line, which is made from stainless steel and is performanceoriented like the Evolution Line, but like the other exhausts in the range produces an exciting soundtrack that is within the limits set by the FIM. 78

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2017 AUSTRALIAN MX NATIONALS

VIRTUAL SERIES ROUND 1 RACE RECAP (WONTHAGGI, VICTORIA)

On the 28th of March we commenced the first round of the Australian Mx National Virtual series. With the times for the events striking the early mornings for the Americans and Europeans it was still incredibly uplifting to see the numbers being as strong as they were, seeing several Champions from previous years show up, From the US and Europe. It was clear, right from the get go that the track was incredibly difficult to find a rhythm on and to keep yourself upright for the whole 30+ minutes. As proved in every race as even the front runners were coming unstuck.

MX1 With last years series winner of the MX1 Class Finn Collins qualifying 3rd for the race and a new young gun Broc Pearson taking the top spot over Toby Stocks by nearly a full second! We were clearly set for an absolutely incredible night of racing. MOTO 1 The first race we got to see and immediately the track take its first victim, Broc Pearson began from almost the complete back end of the field to make things hard for himself, and also giving Toby Stocks a chance to run away with the race win. The first half of the moto Toby received an incredible amount of pressure from last years series winner Finn Collins, up until they ran into the lapped riders. Unfortunately a lapper went down and took Finn along with him giving Toby enough room to take the first MX1 Race win of the season followed by Broc Pearson and Finn Collins.

MOTO 2 This is where things become interesting, Finn Collins got an incredible hole shot, and managed to secure himself quite the lead. Each lap it extended while the likes of Broc Pearson and Toby Stocks battled it out. At around the 10 Minute mark Broc and Toby had dropped their laptimes dramatically, and they started to reel in Finn by almost a second a lap. Finn eventually made a mistake that cost him the lead and dropped him back into 3rd position, Broc and Toby were hard at it until Toby made a mistake and gave Broc an opportunity to break away and then settle back down again, Broc secured his first win of the season followed by Toby Stocks and Finn Collins.

Overall Results 1st Broc Pearson - JPD (47Pts) AUS 2nd Toby Stocks - ilabb.com (47Pts) AUS 3rd Finn Collins - ilabb.com (40Pts) AUS 4th Kurtis Thiele - Greef Clothing (33pts) AUS 5th Zachary Corbett - ilabb.com (32pts) AUS

MX2 Now this was the class to watch for the night, we witnessed current RF Supercross West Coast Championship points leader and last years West Coast winner Jeremi Seabolt running a pace that was on par with the MX1 Class on a track that was 450cc dominant. It made it interesting with fellow US riders Craig Leake, Austin Ecklund, Edward Mora and Top 3 East Coast Supercross rider Connor Holyak and the Euro Jordan Moxey lining up on the gate against our fastest qualifier Clint Scriha out of Australia. This class was a lot closer, the racing the qualifying and the pace of all the riders. MOTO 1 With Clint being ruled out due to a technical, it was all for the Americans and the Europeans to take the icing on the cake. Moto 1 took a completely different turn when our 11th fastest qualifier Jordan Moxey Took the holeshot followed by the Australian, Dale Mullins. Then came the vast list of heavy hitters from the states, Jeremi made it clear he wanted to move to the front as quickly as he could to minimize Jordanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lead. But doing so brought along his fellow US riders Austin Ecklund and Edward Mora, unfortunately Connor Holyak was ruled out on the 5th Lap with a mechanical and had to retire from the race, leaving that top 5 wide open to the

other riders. The first rider to take control of the situation was Austin Ecklund, Jeremi was making some huge mistakes that cost him around 4 positions on the track as everyone attempted to capitalize on the situation. Austin took the lead and was closely followed by Jordan Moxey and Edward Mora, it didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t take long for them to start falling over each other making it a lot easier for Jeremi to gain his momentum and catch back up. Once he did the racing really leveled out with 5 minutes +1 to go Jeremi pulled a massive lead of 15 Seconds and set a new 250cc lap record on the track, following was fellow US Rider Austin Ecklund and the Euro Jordan Moxey

MOTO 2 This race is where it went pear shaped for basically everyone that ran within the top 10 in Moto 1 besides Jeremi, he pulled an absolutely incredible holeshot, and after that there isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t really a whole lot more anyone could do. The shorter race format caused some issues for a lot of the rider making it really hard to capitalize on the massive first turn pile up. With nothing really happening within the first half of the race Jeremi pulled a massive 30 second lead and absolutely demolished the

competition. The fellow US Riders werenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t having the same kind of luck as Austin Ecklund struggled to make it inside the top 10. But what shocked a lot of the viewers was Jordan Moxey and Dale Mullins the fellow Australian putting on quite a show swapping positions almost every lap, at the end of the race Jordan managed to capitalize on a small mistake by Dale trying to make the pass. In the end there was no touching Jeremi as he won by an astounding 53.987 seconds followed by Jordan Moxey and Dale Mullins.

Overall Results 1st Jeremi Seabolt - Prime Designs (50pts) USA 2nd Jordan Moxey - JPD (42pts) UK 3rd Dale Mullins - Seb Media (38pts) AUS 4th Austin Ecklund - ilabb.com (36pts) USA 5th Edward Mora - Vurbmoto (31pts) USA Watch Virtual Track map now

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HIT& MISS MotoOnline.com.au takes a closer look and assesses the Hits and Misses following Wonthaggiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s exciting opening round of the 2017 Motul MX Nationals in Victoria.

HIT. THE HIGHS FROM ROUND 1 OF THE 2017 MX NATIONALS

“THE LEVEL OF COMPETITION IS DEEP IN MX1 THIS YEAR SO EACH ROUND WILL REQUIRE THE SAME FOCUS AND SAME ENERGY TO GET THE JOB DONE. ” - DEAN FERRIS

Dean Ferris (CDR Yamaha) – MX1, first overall The defending champion came out swinging in Wonthaggi and made it clear to his opponents that he means business in his first Motul MX Nationals MX1 title defence. Ferris started the day logging the top qualifying position before moving into the two 30-minute premier class motos where he claimed victory in both to make it a perfect day for the CDR Yamaha rider. Wonthaggi also marked a career-first 1-1 performance for Ferris, which may be surprising to some after showing such strong form during the past year.

He was right there throughout both MX1 motos as he logged a consistent and strong 2-2 moto scorecard behind Ferris to land himself on the podium in the runnerup spot. This result comes as a refreshing change for Mosig who struggled through his 2016 campaign with a list of sub-par results. Wilson Todd (DPH Motorsport Yamaha) – MX2, first overall: On debut with the DPH Motorsport Yamaha team it was clear that Todd had put in the work during the pre-season after claiming the top qualifying spot and opening his 2017 championship campaign with a victory in moto one. The Victorian-based MX2 rider then went on to notch a runner-up finish in moto two for to wrap up a consistent day and capture his first-ever overall victory. The 2015 MXD champion will sport the series leading red plate at Appin’s round two and he certainly has marked himself as the man to beat in 2017.

Kade Mosig (DPH Motorsport Yamaha) – MX1, second overall: Mosig has returned to the familiar Yamaha YZ450F and DPH Motorsport Yamaha squad for 2017 and it’s clear the Victorian is very comfortable in his surroundings.

MISS. THE LOWS OF ROUND 1 OF THE 2017 MX NATIONALS

Brett Metcalfe (SD3 Husqvarna) – MX1, 19th overall: After claiming third in the Super Pole, Metcalfe was set for a strong return to the Australian Motocross scene with the factory-supported SD3 Husqvarna outfit. Pushing through the pack in the opening moto to claim a fifth-place finish, the experienced premier class racer was looking strong and comfortable on-track. Unfortunately for the South Australian, a mechanical cause by a rock smashing his ignition cover in moto two saw Metcalfe forced out of the race and his overall ranking drop to 19th at the end of the day. Be on the lookout for Metcalfe to be shooting for the top spot at Appin as he attempts to claw his way back up the leader-board. Kyle Peters (Wilson Coolair Motul Suzuki) – MX1, seventh overall: The American MX1 contender came out in moto one and made it clear that he

was feeling strong following a unique pre-season contesting the Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship in the East Coast 250SX class. Peters took control of the moto ahead of Ferris and lead the way until a mechanical issue with just two laps remaining saw him drop down to ninth-place. It was a devastating turn of events for the factory Suzuki rider and his second moto of the day continued to prove challenging. Peters was visibly disappointed with his round one result after showing race-winning pace and you can bet he’ll be fired up at round two Luke Arbon (SD3 Husqvarna) – MX2, 11th overall: Usually a front-runner in the MX2 category, and after electing to stay in the class for 2017 following talks of an MX1 move, Arbon failed to show promise in Wonthaggi with a combination of average moto results. With a 15-10 moto scorecard, the South Australian lacked the speed and intensity we’re used to seeing and really didn’t perform to the level we expected. It must be noted that Arbon is returning from a serious spinal injury, but he was still expected to be further up the rankings at the opener and chances are you will see him further up the order with more set time to his credit.

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MX NATIONALS PROGRAM, RIDER LISTS, PROFILES AND PRESS RELEASES

Ap pi n, NSW

WHO

WIL

L W IN

DOWN TH G E IN

VE U

D ON

N ROU

E WATCH VIRTUAL TRACK MAP 

APPIN. After the chaos of round 1 is over, our teams and riders head to Appin New South Wales. Some riders will be looking for redemption and others will look to keep the ball rolling with the momentum gained from the first round. Either way its not going to be an easy ride. It’s well known that Appin has some of the gnarliest ruts and will cause havoc if you’re not careful. Line selection will play a key part as the day goes on whilst remaining smooth and conserving energy as the track gets tougher. For spectators your treated to some great viewing areas that enable you to see most of the track. See you there. 98

RND 2 SCHEDULE START

CLASS

DURATION

8:30am

MX2 Practice / Qualifying

25 Min

9:00am

MXD Practice / Qualifying

25 Min

9:30am

250cc JNR Practice / Qualifying 20 Min

10:00am

MX1 Practice / Qualifying

30 Min

10:30am

Go Pro Super Pole

10 Min

10:40am

Official Opening

5 Min

10.45am

Motul MX2 Moto 1

30 + 1 lap

11:25am

Pirelli MXD Moto 1

20 + 1 lap

12:05am

Thor MX1 Moto 1

30 + 1 lap

12:40pm

Lunch

45 Min

1:25pm

250cc JNR Moto 1

15 Min

1:55pm

Motul MX2 Moto 2

20 + 1 lap

2:35pm

Thor MX1 Moto 2

30 + 1 lap

3.25pm

Pirelli MXD Moto 2

20 + 1 lap

3:55pm

250cc JNR Moto 2

15 Min

CHAMPIONSHIP POINT ALLOCATION PER MOTO 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th

35 32 30 28 26

6th 7th 8th 9th 10th

25 24 23 22 21

11th 12th 13th 14th 15th

20 19 18 17 16

16th 17th 18th 19th 20th

15 14 13 12 11

21st 22nd 23rd 24th 25th

10 9 8 7 6

26th 27th 28th 29th 30th

5 4 3 2 1

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Dean Ferris |

1st

ROUND 1 RECAP Ferris flawless at Round 1 After much anticipation, thousands of spectators watched on as the first spoils for 2017 were collected by 2016 Thor MX1 Champion and CDR Yamahaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dean Ferris in what was an eventful Round 1 of the 2017 Motul MX Nationals at Wonthaggi today. With the premier Thor MX1 class fairing some of the most talented competitors that the series has seen in years, Ferris had his work cut out for him aboard his Yamaha YZ450F in both 30 minute plus

102

one lap motos this afternoon. The depth of talent within the class was realised from the minute bikes hit the track for qualifying this morning â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the top ten separated by

T O P S P O T S

2th

| Kade Mosig

3th

| Kirk Gibbs

4th

| Luke Styke

5th

| Luke Clout

MX1 PRESENTED BY THOR

103

only 2.8 seconds. But it was experienced SD3 Husqvarna rider Brett Metcalfe who capitalised on the smoother track conditions early in the session, recording the fastest qualifying time – the only rider to dip into the 1:45s with a 1:45.332. Less than a second behind him was 2015 MX1 champ Kirk Gibbs (1:46.046), followed by Crankt Protein Honda Racing Team’s Todd Waters (1:46.266). CDR Yamaha’s Ferris and KTM Motocross Racing Team’s Luke Styke recorded the fourth and fifth fastest times, and from there the top five were through to GoPro Superpole. But when GoPro Superpole was wrapped up it was no longer Metcalfe who was fastest on track. Despite only clocking in the fourth fastest time during qualifying, CDR Yamaha’s Ferris bounced back when it counted, collecting the first Superpole victory for 2017 and three championship points with an impressive 1:45.320 lap time, ahead of Styke, Metcalfe, Waters and Gibbs.

104

MOTO 1 When riders lined up for moto one, thousands of spectators dotted the fence line in anticipation for the first premier class show down of the year, and when gates dropped it was Wilson Coolair Motul Factory Suzuki’s Kyle Peters who snatched up the Raceline holeshot, and put healthy distance between himself, Ferris, and DPH Motorsport’s Kade Mosig. After only two laps, Peters continued to hold off last year’s Thor MX1 Champ, while Waters managed to get by local DPH Motorsport rider Mosig to move in to third position. And from there, Waters continued to apply the pressure – with Ferris his next target, the Honda CRF450R rider closing in rapidly on the CDR Yamaha machine. But just as Waters had closed in on Ferris, Ferris closed in on race leader Peters, providing spectators with a three-way battle for the opening MX1 moto top spot. After seven laps on track, the running order saw Suzuki mounted

Peters continuing to maintain control of moto one, while Ferris and Waters were locked in to their own battle for second position behind him. Local Mosig was back in fourth place ahead of Gibbs, while MX1 rookie Luke Clout (Crankt Protein Honda) was having an impressive ride in sixth position. By the halfway mark in moto one, Ferris started making passing attempts on Peters, but with rain beginning to fall, and the top riders into lapped traffic, the CDR Yamaha rider wasn’t able to make a move stick. In what was a surprise to onlookers, Waters made a mistake whilst in third 105

place in the later stages of the moto, which saw him drop back to fourth. With only seven minutes left on the clock Peters and Ferris tightened up once again, and although both riders were making mistakes and changing lines left, right and centre on the technical circuit, the pair remained in first and second positions ahead of Mosig in third. But with one and a half laps remaining, Ferris made a pass on Peters stick, and unfortunately for Peters the bad luck didn’t stop there, Mosig also managed to get by the Suzuki rider before Peters was forced to head back to the pits

106

with a bike malfunction. And with Peters out of the equation, Ferris was able to breeze to victory, while Mosig put in one of his best rides in more than 12 months to take second, followed by Waters who inherited third position in the opening moto. Gibbs concluded race one in fourth ahead of SD3 Husqvarna’s Metcalfe in fifth. Crankt Protein Honda Racing Team’s Clout wrapped up his debut MX1 moto in sixth position, while Styke, MEGA Bulk Fuels Kawasaki’s Nathan Crawford, Peters, and CDR Yamaha’s Dylan Long completed the top ten.

MOTO 2 When gates dropped on race two this afternoon, Crankt Protein Honda Racing Team’s Clout took the second hole shot for the day, however his teammate Waters was not so lucky, going down in the first turn, and on a mission to make up positions. But in true Ferris fashion, it took less than a lap for the CDR Yamaha rider to take control of race two, while Mosig only a lap later also made the pass around Clout to slot up into second position. Behind Ferris and Mosig, it wasn’t long before Clout had his hands full with SD3 Husqvarna’s Metcalfe, and after four laps the former AMA Husqvarna rider made the pass on the youngster for third position. Unfortunately for Clout, Gibbs also made his way around the 2017 Honda, relegating Clout to fourth, while Metcalfe went missing from the podium position handing third place to Gibbs. After nine laps on the gruelling

circuit, Ferris continued to maintain a healthy two second gap on Mosig, followed by Gibbs then Clout who was beginning to feel the pressure from Wilson Coolair Motul Factory Suzuki’s Peters and KTM’s Styke. Long, who is still recovering from a wrist injury circulated in seventh position, while Kawasaki duo Crawford and Aleksandr Tonkov occupied eighth and ninth places. As moto two reached it’s closing stages, no other rider was able to match the form of CDR Yamaha’s Ferris, who looked ultra comfortable taking on the chopped up Wonthaggi circuit. And from there it was no surprise to see Ferris 107

collect the race two victory. Second position was taken by an ‘in form’ Mosig, followed by KTM Motocross Racing Team’s Gibbs. Fourth place was collected by Gibbs’ teammate Styke who got by Clout late in the moto, while Clout completed the MX1 top five. Peters, Long, Crawford, Tonkov and Honda’s Waters completed the top ten in race two.

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But with 1,1 results and a GoPro Superpole victory to boot it was Ferris who collected the first round win of the season at Wonthaggi this afternoon. Second overall was taken by local Mosig, while third position on the podium was taken by KTM’s Gibbs.

DEAN FERRIS – CDR YAMAHA – ROUND 1 WINNER “You always want to come out of the first round with good points, but we maximised them today and I’m really happy with the improvements that CDR Yamaha and myself made in the off-season,” Ferris said. “This championship is deep and ultimately that’s what we want. The boys were riding really well today, and you have to work really hard to be at the front. “That’s what we’re doing, we’re going to try and ride smart this year and be strong as well.”

PRESENTS

M X 1 R E S U LT S NUMBER

RIDER NAME

BIKE

POINTS

DEAN FERRIS

Yamaha

KADE MOSIG

Yamaha

-9

KIRK GIBBS

KTM

-15

LUKE STYKE

KTM

-19

LUKE CLOUT

Honda

-22

TODD WATERS

Honda

-22

KYLE PETERS

Suzuki

-26

199

NATHAN CRAWFORD

Kawasaki

-27

117

DYLAN LONG

Yamaha

-28

159

ALEKSANDR TONKOV

Kawasaki

-33

BRODIE SIMS

Yamaha

-34

JOEL WIGHTMAN

Honda

-36

COREY JAMES

Yamaha

-42

237

ZAK SMALL

Husqvarna

-42

JOEL GREEN

KTM

-44

144

KEIRON HALL

Husqvarna

-45

LACHLAN DAVIS

KTM

-45

JAMES ALEN

KTM

-46

BRETT METCALFE

Husqvarna

-46

264

IZAK MAULE

Yamaha

-50

DANIEL BANKS

KTM

-50

153

HAMISH HARWOOD

KTM

-51

OLIVER JAMES

Honda

-57

LUKE WILSON

Suzuki

-58

RORY MCKERCHER

Honda

-59

CHARLIE CREECH

Honda

-64

CHARLIE WHITE

Suzuki

-64

RUSSELL SCOBLE

Honda

-65

NIC FRAYNE

KTM

-68

191

ANGUS GELLY

Yamaha

-69

110

DIFFERENCE

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MX2

Wilson Todd |

1st

ROUND 1 RECAP Todd finishes on top at Motul MX Nationals season opener DPH Motorsportâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wilson Todd has raced to his first Motul MX2 round win of the 2017 race season after riding his Yamaha YZ250F machine to 1,2 results at Round 1 of the Motul MX Nationals at Wonthaggi today.

112

T O P S P O T S

2th

| Egan Mastin

3th

| Mitch Evans

4th

| Jackson Richardson

5th

| Jayden Rykers

MX2 PRESENTED BY MOTUL

113

With a number of riders stepping up to the Motul MX2 class from the MXD ranks, or returning from racing overseas this season, it was hard to pick who would take the first victory for 2017 on the technical Wonthaggi circuit, but Todd was dominant from the outset. In what was familiar Victorian weather, qualifying took place in chilly conditions this morning and it was a battle of the three Yamaha riders Wilson Todd (DPH Motorsport), along with Serco Yamaha pair Mitchell Evans and Jackson Richardson. But after the 15-minute timed session it was Todd who topped the time sheets with a 1:45.476 lap time, an impressive 1.4 seconds ahead of Evans and Richardson.

114

MOTO 1 With DPH Motorsport’s Todd taking first gate pick in race one, all eyes were on his 2017 Yamaha YZ250F as the 40 strong bikes approached the first turn, but it was Serco Yamaha’s Richardson who secured the first Raceline holeshot ahead of fastest qualifier Todd. After only two laps, Richardson stretched out his lead on Todd to a healthy two seconds, while Synep Racing’s Dylan Wills settled in to third position aboard his Husqvarna ahead of Bulk Nutrients WBR’s Aaron Tanti. As the first 30-minute plus one lap moto progressed, Richardson began to feel the pressure from an in form Todd, while Wills also attempted to close in the DPH Motorsport rider for second position. Behind Wills, Raceline Pirelli KTM’s Jayden Rykers held down fourth position after six laps on track, followed by Serco

Yamaha’s Evans, Hamish Harwood (CML KTM Racing Team), Tanti and privateer Richie Evans. By the 11th rotation, riders were well into lapped traffic and DPH Motorsport rider Todd capitalised on the opportunity to make up time, closing in on Serco Yamaha’s Richardson and making the pass for the lead. Synep Racing’s Wills dropped back to sixth position at the pointy end of the moto, allowing Rykers and Evans to inherit third and fourth places. In the closing stages of race one,

115

rain set in but Todd continued to put distance between himself and Richardson in second position – and with two laps to go, Todd was more than a second quicker than any other rider on track. From there, that’s exactly where Todd remained – controlling the race until the chequered flag flew. Richardson crossed the line in moto one in second

116

position ahead of Rykers and Serco’s Yamahas Evans, who finished in third and fourth. New Zealander Harwood who is racing both the MX2 and MX1 categories this year finished in an impressive fifth place, while Wills, Evans, CRF Honda Racing’s Kyle Webster, Egan Mastin (KTM) and Tanti completed the Motul MX2 top ten.

MOTO 2 By the time the final moto kicked off for the Motul MX2 class, the skies had cleared and thousands of spectators watched on as the class headed out on track for their 20 minute plus one lap moto. Davey Motorsport’s KTM rider Mastin got to the race lead after only the first turn, but DPH Motorsport’s Todd was once again lurking in second position threatening for the lead. In what was an upset for Serco Yamaha, moto one second place getter Richardson went down on the opening lap, and was forced to re-join the race at the rear of the pack. After only six minutes on the rough Wonthaggi circuit, Mastin looked in no way to be slowing down aboard his KTM 250 two-stroke, while Todd looked comfortable in second position ahead of CML Racing Team’s Harwood. After a tough start in moto one, Webster looked to redeem himself in race two and after five laps held down fourth position, while Serco Yamaha’s Evans slotted in to fifth.

With the top two riders Mastin and Todd out in front with a healthy gap on the field, the attention then shifted to the battle for third. Webster managed to sneak up onto the rear wheel of Harwood, eventually making the pass in the front section of the track with thousands of spectators as the backdrop. As moto two reached its closing stages, two-stroke piloted Mastin continued to lead from Todd, Webster and Harwood. Fifth position was occupied by Evans, followed by Raceline Pirelli KTM’s Rykers in sixth, and Serco’s Richardson who had made his way back to seventh 117

from his lap one crash. But it was Mastin who was the man of the moment in moto two, putting in a flawless performance to lead from lap one to the chequered flag. Todd crossed the finish line for the final time today in second, while CRF Honda Racing’s Webster wrapped up his second outing today in third. Evans made the pass on Harwood late in the moto to finish fourth, while Harwood wrapped up race two in fifth. Rykers, Richardson, Tanti, Richie

118

Evans, and SD3 Husqvarna’s Luke Arbon completed the top ten. However, with 1,2 results, it was DPH Motorsports’ Wilson Todd who concluded round one on the top step of the Motul MX2 podium, Mastin wrapped up the season opener in second overall, while Serco Yamaha’s Mitchell Evans’ consistency paid off seeing the 2016 MXD champ finish his MX2 debut in third for the round.

WILSON TODD – DPH MOTORSPORT – ROUND 1 WINNER “I’m stoked to come out this year and win the opening round. I had a lot of bad luck last season,” Todd shared. “Obviously to come out and win the first round we’ve got the season on the right track. I got two awesome starts and finished top two in both motos, so I can’t ask for much more than that. “It’s a family environment with the DPH Motorsport guys and everyone under the truck is super supportive, so I can’t thank them enough for their help to get this done and we’re pumped for the rest of the season.”

PRESENTS

M X 2 R E S U LT S NUMBER

RIDER NAME

BIKE

POINTS

WILSON TODD

Yamaha

EGAN MASTIN

KTM

-10

MITCHELL EVANS

Yamaha

-11

JACKSON RICHARDSON

Yamaha

-11

JAYDEN RYKERS

KTM

-12

KYLE WEBSTER

Honda

-14

153

HAMISH HARWOOD

KTM

-15

RICHIE EVANS

Yamaha

-21

DYLAN WILLS

Husqvarna

-22

AARON TANTI

Yamaha

-23

LUKE ARBON

Husqvarna

-30

JOEL EVANS

Yamaha

-30

JESSE MCNALLY

Yamaha

-32

BAILEY COXON

Yamaha

-33

RICKY LATIMER

Yamaha

-35

JAYDEN CONFORTO

Kawasaki

-38

392

CALIB BEST

Yamaha

-39

JAKE SALEMS

KTM

-47

112

DANIEL FIGUEROA

Yamaha

-48

LEVI MCMANUS

Honda

-49

188

TOMAS RAVENHORST

Yamaha

-49

KARL CLARIDGE

KTM

-52

JARROD KELLY

KTM

-53

BRANDON JOHNSON

Yamaha

-56

103

STEPHEN KROP

Kawasaki

-56

107

DARREN SCHENK

Kawasaki

-56

219

LACHLAN WILSON

Yamaha

-57

128

GLEN SEGERI

KTM

-60

WADE KIRKLAND

KTM

-60

223

TRISTAN OWEN

Husqvarna

-61

120

DIFFERENCE

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MXD

Cooper Pozniak |

1st

ROUND 1 RECAP Pozniak takes Pirelli MXD class round win at Wonthaggi The Pirelli MXD class delivered plenty of entertainment today with Yamalube Yamaha Racing Teamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cooper Pozniak edging out tough competition to take the first round victory at Round 1 of the Motul MX Nationals at Wonthaggi in Victoria.

122

T O P S P O T S

2th

| Jy Roberts

3th

| Cody Dyce

4th

| Kaleb Barham

5th

| Benjamin Broad

MXD PRESENTED BY PIRELLI

123

The development class which provides riders with their first introduction to professional racing showcased plenty of new talent across both motos this afternoon with Pozniak eventually putting together 1,1 race results rewarding him with the first round win of the season. Rookie MXD rider Cody Dyce aboard Yamalube Yamaha Racing was the fastest MXD qualifier this morning, recording a 1:51.047 lap time ahead of teammate Pozniak, (1:51.383) while third position on the time sheets was taken by Sam Pelz after he recorded his fastest lap on only his first rotation on the circuit.

124

MOTO 1 When moto one commenced, the Wonthaggi track had become deep and highly technical, providing the ultimate challenge for the MX Nationals Under 19 competitors. And when gates dropped, it was Yamalube Yamaha Racing’s Pozniak who secured the Raceline holeshot ahead of Husqvarna’s Jye Roberts and Yamaha mounted Dyce. However fastest qualifier Dyce was determined to move into the top spot, and within a few turns had made the pass on Roberts for second and then set his sights on his team mate Pozniak. But unfortunately for Dyce a 10 second in-race penalty for riding inside a track marker at the four lap mark hindered the Yamaha rider’s charge – Dyce was then forced to race against the clock in a dash to make up positions before the chequered flag. After 12 minutes of the first 20-minute plus one lap moto, the Pirelli

MXD running order saw Yamalube Yamaha Racing’s Pozniak continuing to lead from Dyce and Husqvarna’s Roberts. Benjamin Broad (Kawasaki) and KTM SXF 250 rider Ryan Kenney held down fourth and fifth positons respectively, while Jackson Coulson, Kaleb Barham, and Raceline Pirelli KTM’s Morgan Fogarty all maintained places inside the top ten. However, with Dyce on a mission to make up time, it wasn’t long before the Yamaha MXD rookie made the move on his more experienced team mate Pozniak for first position, but with a huge ten

125

seconds to make up in order to take the victory, it was Dyce against himself once he had a clear track ahead of him. By the time riders received the last lap board, there had been no change at the front of the pack, with Dyce continuing to tick off laps, in a desperate bid to stretch out his gap on Pozniak and Roberts to more than ten seconds. But when the chequered flag flew, Dyce just fell short in time, and despite

126

crossing the line in the top spot, was awarded second place after his earlier time penalty. Pozniak was then handed the first Pirelli MXD race win of the season, while Roberts concluded his first 2017 outing in third. Broad, Fogarty, Barham, Hugh McKay (Bulk Nutrients WBR Yamaha), Kenney, Justin Hart (Husqvarna) and Coulson (Yamaha) all wrapped up moto one inside the top ten.

MOTO 2 By the time the Pirelli MXD class headed out for their second moto this afternoon, competitors were forced to contend with a notoriously difficult Wonthaggi circuit, and it was Pozniak who secured the holeshot once again, while unfortunately teammate Dyce showed his inexperience, going down on the first lap, re joining the race in 24th position. However, it wasn’t long before rookie Raceline Pirelli KTM’s Fogarty made his presence known, making the pass up the inside of Pozniak, and showing that despite being fresh out of juniors, that he’s racing for wins. Unfortunately for Fogarty a crash on lap three handed the driver’s seat back to Yamalube Yamaha Racing’s Pozniak, also allowing Roberts to slot up in to second position ahead of Husqvarna’s Callum Norton. The crashes continued for Pirelli MXD riders soon after Fogarty went down,

with Norton becoming the next victim of the Wonthaggi circuit – crashing out of third place and handing the final podium position to Kaleb Barham. As race two entered it’s closing stages one man that crowds couldn’t keep their eyes off was Dyce, who had charged all the way from 24th place to seventh position with five minutes still left on the clock. Despite having a moment on the final lap, it was Pozniak who’s patience and consistency paid off at Wonthaggi this afternoon, crossing the finish line

127

in first position, followed by Roberts and Barham in second and third places respectively. Fourth today was collected by Dyce who’s late charge paid off, while despite leading for a handful of laps, Fogarty wrapped up the second moto in fifth position.

128

But it was Pozniak’s consistency that paid off this afternoon – his flawless 1,1 score card awarding him with the round one overall. Second spot on the Pirelli MXD podium was taken by Roberts, while Dyce wrapped up his debut MXD outing in third for the day.

COOPER POZNIAK – YAMALUBE YAMAHA RACING TEAM – ROUND 1 WINNER “Last year I finished the season off strong and got the win at the last round so I just came here to get some nice solid points and to go 1,1 is awesome,” Pozniak said. “I tried to stay smooth and consistent all day so I can’t thank my team enough for all the work they have put in to make today happen. “It’s good to have the red plate leaving round one, so I’m just going to go home, put in the work and try and keep it for the whole season.” 129

PRESENTS

M X D R E S U LT S NUMBER

RIDER NAME

BIKE

POINTS

DIFFERENCE

COOPER POZNIAK

Yamaha

100

JY ROBERTS

Husqvarna

-8

CODY DYCE

Yamaha

-10

KALEB BARHAM

Husqvarna

-15

BENJAMIN BROAD

Kawasaki

-17

MORGAN FOGARTY

KTM

-18

JUSTIN HART

Husqvarna

-24

RILEY DUKES

Husqvarna

-27

HUGH MCKAY

Yamaha

-27

149

ISAAC FERGUSON

KTM

-30

JAI CONSTANTINOU

Honda

-31

JACKSON COULSON

Yamaha

-31

BRODIE ELLIS

Yamaha

-35

121

LIAM WALSH

KTM

-37

110

RYAN KENNEY

KTM

-39

SAM PELZ

Yamaha

-40

DYLAN WOOD

Kawasaki

-41

HAYDEN SMITH

KTM

-43

JYE DICKSON

KTM

-44

288

WILLIAM MIDDLETON

Husqvarna

-49

JOSH BREWSTER

KTM

-51

CHANDLER BURNS

KTM

-55

JESSE BISHOP

Yamaha

-56

ALEX WATT

Husqvarna

-57

125

ZAC TOWILL

KTM

-57

281

LACHLAN TORPY

KTM

-57

521

KANE FISCHER

Husqvarna

-57

133

JAKE WEST

Yamaha

-64

395

DYLAN WAKARTSCHUK

KTM

-66

JOEL PHILLIPS

Husqvarna

-66

COMP CODE: 64-DYLANWILLS 130

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131

k : Craig Dac R E G A N A NER / M BERS: 8 TEAM OW TEAM MEM S WON: 48 IP H S N IO P CHAM

FERRIS #111 DEAN Class: MX1 Age: 27 W : Kyogle NS Hometown ha YZ450F Bike: Yama heel111 IG: @ferrisw

#117

N LONG #117 DYLA Class: MX1 Age: 22 IC : Benalla, V Hometown ha YZ450F Bike: Yama long IG: @dvlan

FERRIS’ CHAMPIONSHIP DEFENCE ON TRACK AFTER MX NATIONALS OPENER CDR Yamaha’s Dean Ferris has made a sensational start to his MX Nationals championship defence, winning the day in dominant fashion and taking an early lead in the series, after the opening round wrapped up at the Wonthaggi motocross circuit over the weekend. With a clean bill of health and a full preseason of riding and training under his belt, Ferris entered the round confident of a good performance and proud to have the number 1 plate bolted onto his CDR Yamaha YZ450F. But it wasn’t all smooth sailing for Ferris and his team, as the day started roughly for the 26 year old Kyogle resident who despite a heavy fall in the morning qualifying session which resulted in Dean cleaning up a fence and damaging his bike. He still made it into the Go Pro Superpole event where he unleashed the fastest lap of the session to get the allimportant first choice of the gate. With just over an hour before moto one, the CDR crew worked feverishly on the damaged bike replacing several parts including handlebars and radiators but managed to turn the bike around and have it ready for the opening race of the championship. Ferris rocketed off the gate and instantly slotted into second place and in the shadows of race leader, Kyle Peters. He was on the back wheel of the US based rider but it wasn’t until the 25 minute mark of the race that he was able to sneak by Peters and into

himself and Mosig to relieve the pressure. He went on the win the moto and get his season underway with the perfect 1-1 result. “An awesome way to start the championship!” Ferris states, but it’s just two out 20 races we do to earn the MX Nationals championship so we aren’t getting too far ahead of ourselves. “The level of competition is deep in MX1 this year so each round will require the same focus and same energy to get the job done. “I’m really happy with the improvements the team has made to the bike for this season and today was a great way to start the year,” he ends. Team mate Dylan Long also made an encouraging start to the championship with a top 10 round result despite only being back on the bike just a couple of weeks after a long layoff from injury. Long suffered back to back hand / arm injuries starting around the Christmas period and just two weeks ago was barely able to ride full laps of a motocross track. Fast forward to the opening round at Wonthaggi and Long acquitted himself well to take 10-7 results to finish the day in ninth place and gain some valuable points in the championship chase. “I came here for a media day just on three weeks ago and all I could do was a corner for photos as my wrist had only just healed, so to get this result

the race lead. From there he rode to the finish unchallenged to take the race win. Race two and Ferris again gated well and made his move into the lead as the field completed the opening lap. With fellow Yamaha mounted Kade Mosig just a couple of seconds behind, Ferris had to keep the speed on and it wasn’t until the later stages of the race that Ferris had built enough space between

today is pretty good. I’m still not even close to 100% but my goal is to continue to improve at each and every round as my speed and fitness return to full strength.

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s : Gavin Eale R E G A N A NER / M BERS: 5 TEAM OW TEAM MEM IPS WON: 7 H S N IO P M CHA

#11

N ICHARDSO R N O S K C #11 JA Class: MX2 Age: 22 D : Cairns, QL Hometown ha YZ250F Bike: Yama ho IG: @jatzric

#43

EVANS #43 MITCH Class: MX2 Age: 18 D : Cairns, QL Hometown ha Yz250F Bike: Yama evans43 IG: @mitch

SERCO YAMAHA WELL PLACED AFTER MX NATIONALS OPENER

Yamaha’s MX2 race team, Serco Yamaha, have positioned themselves well after the opening round of the MX Nationals in Wonthaggi, Victoria, with Mitch Evans landing on the podium in third place directly ahead of team mate Jackson Richardson in fourth. Evans will claim bragging rights within the team and the family, as they are cousins, until round two as he more than exceeded expectations at his very first MX2 round of the MX Nationals. The 2016 MXD winner kept a low profile in the lead up to the opening round as he trained back at his north Queensland base. He had clearly done the work as a much slimmer and more defined Evans showed up at round one and was determined to get a reward for his pre-season efforts. Evans posted 4-4 results in the two motos contested in a consistently fast paced performance. Evans was towards the front in the early stages of both motos and sitting inside the top six. His fitness proved to be a key factor in his result as he was able to pass riders in the later stages of both motos and finish on equal points with his team-mate and cousin but gets the podium position based on a higher finish in the second race. “I’m extremely happy to get on the podium at my first round of MX2,” Evans states. “Myself and the team had a more modest goal in mind so to go better is awesome and a great start to the championship. “I worked really hard over the off season and now that I have the time to dedicate to

ride and train I really want to improve and be the best racer I can be. This is the little confidence boost I need and it shows that I’m on the right track,” Evans ends. As mentioned, Evans equalled team mate Jackson Richardson on points but the 4-4 of Evans edged out the 2-7 results of Richardson. Richardson blasted to the lead in the opening moto and together with fellow Yamaha rider, Wilson Todd, the duo gapped the rest of the field. Richardson resisted challenge after challenge from Todd but finally relented the lead position just past the halfway stage. Richardson stayed close to Todd but was unable to regain the lead and had to settle for second place. Race two and Richardson fell on the opening lap after trying to force a pass into second position. As the majority of the field raced by, Richardson remounted and set off in pursuit of the pack trying to salvage as many points as possible in the 20minute race. He clawed his way to a respectable seventh place finish and wound up in fourth place for the round. “I probably tried to rush that pass on the opening lap of race two,” Richardson said with reflection at the end of the day. “I was determined to win moto two but that mistake ended any chance I had and I need to learn from that and ensure that I don’t make the same error again.

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p cott Bisho S : R E G A N TEAM MA BERS: 6 TEAM MEM IPS WON: 5 H S N IO P M CHA

#33

DYCE #33 CODY Class: MXD Age: 17 VIC : Tinamba, Hometown ha YZ250F Bike: Yama dyce33 IG: @cody_

#17

K ER POZNIA #17 COOP Class: MXD Age: 18 SW oodrising, N W : n w to e Hom ha YZ250F Bike: Yama rpozniak17 IG: @coope

YAMALUBE YAMAHA RACING CHARGE TO 1-3 FINISH IN WONTHAGGI

The Yamalube Yamaha Racing duo of Cooper Pozniak and Cody Dyce came out firing on all cylinders taking a 1-3 result respectively and announcing their intentions for the year as the first round of the MX Nationals roared to life, on the weekend. On the rough and challenging Wonthaggi circuit in Victoria, Pozniak proved a revelation finishing with 1-1 results to take the round win and hold an eight-point advantage over his nearest rival. As the opening moto got underway, Pozniak fired his YZ250F to the lead with his team mate Dyce slotting right in behind him. The pair raced away from the field in the early stages as the ripped around the track in a race of their own. Dyce then made a mistake and went off the track but was deemed not to have taken enough precaution when re-entering and was docked with a 10 second in race penalty. But undeterred, Dyce made the move on his team mate and took over the race lead and put on a charge to regain the 10 seconds taken from him. But Pozniak stayed within a few seconds of Dyce for the remainder of the moto and when they crossed the line, Dyce was first on track but the five second margin wasn’t enough for Dyce to claim the win. The race was awarded to Cooper Pozniak and Cody Dyce came home in second and a great 1-2 for the team. Moto two was set to be a carbon copy of the race one with Pozniak again taking the holeshot and leading the race in the early stages. He was challenged by Morgan Forgarty who was able to hit the lead briefly before he fell and handed the lead back to Pozniak.

eye on what was going on behind him and another on the track ahead. He eked out an eight second gap over second place and simply monitored it until the checkered flag flew after 12 laps of racing with Pozniak taking the win with his fist in the air. “My first ever round win,” Pozniak says with triumph. “About a month ago I was in Queensland doing some testing and I fell and injured my hand and thumb so I haven’t been able to ride up until the Monday before round one so to get this win today is unreal and I can’t thank everyone in the team and my family enough. “ I got awesome starts in both races and my race bike is so strong.” “It was good to leaving round one after such a positive day and for Cody and myself to both be on the podium shows how hard everyone has worked over the off season,” Pozniak ends. Dyce finished the day in third place after two inspirational rides. The only thing that stopped him from winning moto 1 was a 10 second penalty while he produced the race of the day in moto two that had his home town fans on the feet. Dyce was inside the top three on the opening lap and looking to get to the front ASAP but he lost traction and fell awkwardly from his machine. As he got to his feet and scrambled back to his bike, the entire MXD class roared past and Cody finished the first lap in 39th place and enormous job ahead of him. But to his credit, he dusted himself off and calmly started working his way back through the pack. At 12 minutes his was up to eighth place but a big final two lap charge saw him move into fourth and finish right on the rear tyre of third in a sensational performance.

With a comfortable margin back to his nearest competitor, Pozniak rode an intelligent race with one

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t ay Marmon J : R E G A N TEAM MA BERS: 5 TEAM MEM 1 IPS WON: 2 H S N IO P M CHA

BS #5 KIRK GIB Class: MX1 Age: 28 r, SA unt Gambie o M : n w to Home 450SX-F Bike: KTM bs IG: @kirkgib

#26

STYKE #26 LUKE Class: MX1 Age: 25 D LISTON, QL G : n w to e Hom 450SX-F Bike: KTM 6 IG: @styke2

KTM MEN OFF TO GREAT STARTS IN MX NATIONALS

With the first round of this year’s MX Nationals now in the history books, the KTM men have proved they’re firmly in the game across all classes at Wonthaggi in Victoria. Season 2015 MX Nationals Champion Kirk Gibbs’ return to top-level competition after suffering a broken femur in September last year yielded a welldeserved podium, behind round winner Dean Ferris and Kade Mosig. Gibbs earlier qualified second fastest and took fifth in SuperPole, the current Vice Champion then powering to 4,3 results on the day. Team mate Luke Styke kicked off solidly with second in SuperPole, and worked his way back from a terrible Moto 1 start to be seventh there, before lodging fourth in the second Moto. The Queenslandbased rider from Jervis Bay roved he’s headed back towards full speed after a 2016 season spent on the sidelines. Kiwi Hamish Harwood finished out of the big points in the premier class, but due to the silky torque of his KTM 300 XC, he still had enough sting in him to feature prominently in the MX2 category, where he gained huge respect for his decision to pull double duty. Davey Motorsports rider Daniel Banks qualified 12th but poor starts saw him struggle to 21-18 moto results for 21st on the day. Jay Marmont – KTM Motocross Racing Team Manager: “We’re happy, we managed to get both riders in SuperPole, which was a personal best for Luke. We didn’t get their best starts in the first moto but we got a bit lucky with a couple of riders struggling. Our bikes performed well and both riders performed well, and to come away with third and fourth is a solid round one result and I’m really happy.” MX1 Kirk Gibbs – KTM450SX-F: “We’re in an alright position, I was pretty happy with the day. I haven’t raced at the intensity that the front guys are running for so long, so I need to practice getting into that speed really early. The KTM 450 SX-F was handling really well today, the boys did a great job.

There are those days where you don’t quite feel 100% so you don’t quite push 100%. I got a little flustered in the first moto. I had good speed and was catching those front boys, but I just wasn’t good enough to make a pass. I’ve just got to iron out a few little problems and then I think everything will be right on track.” Luke Styke – KTM450SX-F: “Got into SuperPole and came second which was a PB – it was good to grab two points for that. First moto I started outside the top-20 and made it hard for myself, then just got the shovel out, had a good dig and got back to seventh. I put a lot of energy into that race but the second moto I fixed the problem and got a top-three start, then clawed it back a bit and got fourth, for fourth overall on the day. It’s a good building point and I think we can offer a lot more. I’ll go back home for a couple of weeks and do the grind, and come back to Appin full swing.” Hamish Harwood – KTM 300SX, KTM 250SX: “It was a pretty consistent day. In MX1 I was kind of saving some energy but also struggling to pass riders, so I had a tough time, and in the last one I came together with another rider on the finish line jump and had a big cartwheel. I hit my head pretty hard, but apart from that, all good. The two strokes are quite different bikes to each other, even though it’s only 50cc. The 300 is an XC because KTM wanted to show that it’s a good motocross bike as well as cross country bike. All we’ve done is put a 19-inch rear wheel on it. It has heaps of smooth torque, which is nice. I was expecting it to be a real weapon, but it’s actually got smooth power, and lots of it. I got two sixth places in MX2 which wasn’t too bad a start to the season. I let a few people by in the second MX2 moto, which I was pretty annoyed about.” MX2 Davey Motorsport rider and 2014 MXD Champion Egan Mastin got his tenure with KTM off to a fine start with second overall, after he rebounded from a heavy crash in race one in the finest possible style, finishing 9-1 for second on the day, behind round winner Wilson Todd. Western Australian rising star Jayden Rykers took his Raceline Development Team KTM 250 SX-F to 3-6 moto finishes for fifth overall, and lies just 2 points adrift of second-placed Mastin.

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Tisdale GER: Chris A N A M M A TE 250SX-F BIKES: KTM

RYKERS #3 JAYDEN Class: MX2 Age: 20 age rykersfanp n e d y ja @ : FB rykers3 IG: @jayden

Y N FOGART #4 MORGA Class: MXD Age: an.fogy FB: @morg nfogarty_ IG: @morga IRKLAND #5 WADE K Class: MX2 7 1 : e g A er, TAS : Scamand n w to e m o H dwade IG: @kirklan

RACELINE PIRELLI KTM TEAM ON THE CHARGE AS MX NATIONALS OPEN

It was a positive, but challenging day for Raceline Pirelli KTM at the 2017 MX Nationals series-opener in Wonthaggi, Victoria, on Sunday as riders Jayden Rykers, Wade Kirkland and Morgan Fogarty recorded a mixed bag of results. In MX2, Rykers and Kirkland completed the morning’s qualifying session in sixth and 14th respectively, but it was Rykers who shone throughout the opening moto. The Western Australian lodged a less than stellar start, although he was able to work his way through the field, narrowly edging his way to third position. For class newcomer Kirkland, an existing foot injury he aggravated during the opening moto halted his progress and he settled for 24th. A decision was later taken to sit out the second moto and he will now look to regain full fitness prior to round two. In race two, Rykers again fell short of a great start and found himself in the middle of the pack. With only 20 minutes plus one lap for race two, the number three 250 SX-F rider was unable to negotiate his way through traffic as he did in moto one, forcing him to settle for sixth and crediting him fifth overall in the process. “I’m somewhat happy with 3-6 results to start the season for fifth overall,” Rykers recalled. “We weren’t far from second, which was good since my starts lacked a bit today and I had to fight through the pack. It’s good, solid points and something to build off – there are six or seven guys who can win this championship, so the points are important at each round. I feel like these results can put the two-stroke/ four-stroke debate to a halt and I’m happy to move onto the next round.” Kirkland commented: “It was a pretty full-on weekend for me, pretty hectic in MX2 with that added

intensity and a fast pace. Unfortunately I dabbed my foot, which was already sore from a couple of weeks ago, in moto one and hurt it again, so I didn’t race the second moto because of that. We have three weeks until Appin, so I will try to let it recover and go from there.” MXD rookie Fogarty enjoyed a consistent first appearance in the Under 19s division, carding a pair of fifth-placed finishes for sixth overall. He will now carry that vital experience into upcoming rounds and learned a significant amount on race day. “It was a good learning experience for me and good to get the first race out of the way,” Fogarty shared. “I can’t complain because we had consistent results and the plan is to just keep working so we can get better. I know where I’m at now and what I’ve got to work on, so I think we should be fine for the next round.” The 2017 MX Nationals will continue at Appin in New South Wales on Sunday, 23 April. Visit the official series website at www.mxnationals.com.au for further information. To follow Raceline Pirelli KTM’s progress this year, like ‘Raceline’ on Facebook or follow @raceline_ motosport on Instagram.

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ll : Troy Carro R E G A N A TEAM M BERS: 6 TEAM MEM IPS WON: 1 H S N IO P M CHA

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NKOV SANDR TO K E L A 9 5 1 # Class: MX1 4 2 : e g A ussia : Kungur, R n w to e m o H ndrtonkov IG: @aleksa ORD AN CRAWF H T A N 9 9 1 # Class: MX1 9 1 : e g A QLD : Brisbane, n w to e m o H n199 IG: @_natha

CRAWFORD AND TONKOV TAKE TOP 10 RESULTS AT WONTHAGGI MEGA Bulk Fuels Monster Energy Kawasaki Racing Team teammates Nathan Crawford and Aleksandr Tonkov claimed eighth and 10th positions overall as the 2017 Motul MX Nationals commenced at Wonthaggi in Victoria on Sunday, 2 April. On debut in the MX1 ranks aboard his KX450F,

“It was great to come back racing, to be on the start-gate and to feel the emotions,” Tonkov said. “It’s been a long time for me, but overall I am happy that I’m healthy and that we have more time until the second round. We will start testing now because this was only my second time on the bike, since when I arrived it

19-year-old Queensland newcomer Crawford overcame a recently-broken radius bone and dislocated wrist to finish eighth in both 30-minute motos today, resulting in P8 overall. It was an impressive way to start his premier class career despite having his pre-season preparations cut short through injury. “Surprisingly enough, we achieved our goals and we’re not that far off the top guys,” reflected Crawford. “I tied for seventh and was eighth on countback, but the points we got this weekend weren’t too bad at all. In my debut I would’ve liked to be a lot higher, but since I broke my forearm and dislocated my wrist four weeks ago, for me to even be here was a big goal in itself. I’m really happy with how the team worked together this weekend and we’ve got three weeks to get ready for round two, so we will definitely be better there.” Round one also saw the first MX Nationals appearance of 23-year-old Russian standout Tonkov, who only arrived in Australia on Tuesday. Also facing limited seat time aboard the KX450F in the lead-up to Wonthaggi, the former GP race winner was able to post a 13th-place finish in the opening moto and and improved to ninth in the second. That placed him 10th overall.

started raining in Queensland and I wasn’t able to test. The track was tough actually, so I was surprised in that, but it was good and I’m really thankful that I have the opportunity to come here and race. We have plenty of time to work and from this point it should get better, for sure.” MEGA Bulk Fuels Monster Energy Kawasaki Racing Team manager Troy Carroll was satisfied in the results and having a solid amount of points on the board at round one, planning to work closely with the riders and team to gain additional momentum ahead of round two. The experience built this weekend will prove supremely valuable in upcoming rounds. “We knew we were behind the eight-ball coming into the round, but we knew what we had to do and that was to get points,” Carroll commented. “We wanted to make sure we were in the top 10 and to the credit of both riders, they did it. Nathan broke his arm only four weeks ago, but he came out with a really good result in eighth overall. Aleksandr had two days on the bike in six months coming in and he arrived late, so for us it was a good thing they both finished in the top 10. We will go home now, work together and train together as a team – I have no doubt that we will be contenders for this championship by the end of it.”

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ey, NSW TERS: Sydn R A U Q D A HE BERS: 8 TEAM MEM

METCALFE #24 BRETT Class: MX1 Age: 32 A : Manum, S Hometown y24 IG: @bmett

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ARBON #54 LUKE Class: MX2 4 2 : e g A : Gawler, SA Hometown on54 IG: @lukearb BARHAM #16 KALEB Class: MXD 8 1 : e g D A oomba, QL w o o T : n w Hometo barham_16 IG: @kaleb_

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HUSQVARNA STRAIGHT ON THE PACE AT WONTHAGGI Few expected Brett Metcalfe to be back on the pace quite so quickly and completely as he was at the opening round of this year’s MX Nationals series at Wonthaggi in Victoria. Less than a month after arriving back in Australia and with just a couple of days testing under his belt, the highly-decorated South Australian-born international took the SD3 team’s Husqvarna FC 450 to the top of the time sheets in qualifying, and posted lap times among the fastest in both motos. Disappointingly, there was to be no fairy-tale homecoming for ‘Metty’, who after recovering from a Moto 1 crash to finish fifth, was positioned threateningly behind eventual race winner Dean Ferris and Kade Mosig in third place in the second moto, when a roosted rock holed his ignition cover and his machine began to bleed out. The DNF leaves Metcalfe 19th overall in the championship; not ideally positioned, but with clear proof of his level.

In MX2, Husqvarna Synep Racing’s Dylan Wills and SD3 Husqvarna’s Luke Arbon both showed very positive form in their first rides back from injury, Wills beginning proceedings with a ninth overall after running as high as third in the opening moto, and Arbon 11th after passing 25 riders in an action-packed first moto as he recovered from a second corner fall. In MXD Jy Roberts took a brilliant podium on the Robertson’s MC Dubbo Husqvarna FC250, finishing second to Cooper Pozniak and ahead of Cody Dice, while SD3/Full Throttle Husqvarna’s Kaleb Barham began solidly in fourth overall after 6-3 finishes. The round’s 125cc Junior Cup support class began strongly for Husqvarna Factory Junior Squad rider Bailey Malkiewicz, who powered the Moto GC Husqvarna TC125 into third behind Regan Duffy and Mason Semmens. For more information on Husqvarna motorcycles visit www.husqvarna-motorcycles.com

MX1 rookie Zak Small was also off on a positive footing on the Mega Motorcycles FC 350, 18th and 13th giving the Queensland Champion 13th overall.

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WILLS #64 DYLAN Class: MX2 1 2 : e g A W : Como, NS n w to e m o H wills64 IG: @dylan

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FISCHER #521 KANE Class: MXD 7 1 : e g A , NSW : Kurrajong n w to e m o H ing IG: @521rac

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LOUT #4 LUKE C Class: MX1 Age: 22 SW angrove, N n n A : n w to Home ut4 IG: @lukeclo

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WATERS #47 TODD Class: MX1 Age: 26 QLD : Atherton, Hometown aters47 IG: @toddw

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IGHTMAN #30 JOEL W Class: MX1 Age: 21 W letown, NS g in S : n w to Home htman IG: @joelwig

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WEBSTER #96 KYLE Class: MX2 Age: 20 : Perth, WA Hometown ebster96 IG: @kylew

PODIUM PERFORMANCE FOR WEBSTER AS NEW-LOOK PENRITE CRF HONDA RACING SQUAD TAKES ON MX NATIONALS Penrite CRF Honda Racing rider Kyle Webster showed a sign of what’s in store for 2017 with a third place podium performance in the second MX2 moto of the opening round of the MX Nationals at Wonthaggi, Victoria, on Sunday, April 2. Meanwhile second Penrite CRF Honda Racing

“The track was tough but my bike was awesome. My mechanic Mick and the Penrite CRF Honda Racing team have done an awesome job and I can’t wait to get to the next round.” In the premier MX1 division, NSW Hunter Valley rider Wightman was keen for his class debut

rider Joel Wightman took to the line in the MX1 category of the MX Nationals for the first time ever, and fired his thundering CRF450R to a 12th overall result after running on the edge of the top ten standings in the event’s two motos. The Wonthaggi series kick-off was the first full hit-out for the Honda Australia backed race squad, which for season 2017 has welcomed leading Australian lubricant brand Penrite as naming rights sponsor of the team. With a huge grid of the country’s top motocross exponents descending on the Wonthaggi event, the MX Nationals championship opener was always going to deliver intense competition, and that’s just what Webster was confronted with in the MX2 division. “It was a tough and challenging race day, for sure,” said Webster, “but overall it was a good day for me. “Things were tough in the first moto, as I got caught up in a first turn crash with a few other riders, but I managed to come from near last to ride through the field and finish eighth in the first moto. “Thankfully I got a much better start and had a cleaner run on the first lap in the second moto, and pretty much got into third and ran there all the way to the flag, which was good to get a podium placing at the first round.

in the MX Nationals and posted 11/14 moto scores to notch up 12th overall for the day. “Overall it was a positive first step into MX1,” said Wightman after the event. “I didn’t get the best of starts in either race but found myself hovering around the top ten in both motos. “I finished tenth in the first moto and was running tenth in the second moto when I made a silly mistake that led to a crash with only three laps to go. I remounted in 15th and finished the race in 14th. If not for that fall, I could have finished tenth, but that’s the way it goes… “Overall it was a good kick-off to MX1 on a super-rough track and I was rapt with the Pro-Moto suspension and the way my bike ran all day.” After the MX Nationals opener, Webster sits sixth in the MX2 standings while Wightman is 12th in MX1. Round two of the gruelling ten-round MX Nationals championship chase is set to take place at Sydney’s Appin Raceway on Sunday, April 23. To keep up to date on the Penrite CRF Honda Racing team’s activities, be sure to follow their social media accounts: Facebook: CRF Honda Racing Instagram: crf_honda_racing

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R TIERNEY #7 CONNO Class: MX2 Age: 19 A Bunbury, W : n w to e m Ho rtierney7 IG: @conno

N TANTI #18 AARO Class: MX2 0 2 : e g A , NSW : Silverdale n w to e m o H tanti18 IG: @aaron MCKAY #46 HUGH Class: MXD 6 1 : e g A n TAS : Launcesto n w to e m o H ckay46 IG: @hughm

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TOP 10 START FOR WBR BULK NUTRIENTS AT WONTHAGGI

After months of prep, Team WBR Bulk Nutrients were pumped to line up for Rd1. While team MX2 young gun, Connor Tierney was still resting an injured ACL, the team had Tasmanian Hugh McKay back for a second year in the MXD class, with the hard charging Aaron Tanti in MX2. For Rd1, Connor’s replacement was local Vic rider, Lachy Steen who had the opportunity of a lifetime riding against the best in Australia. When the gate dropped for the first time in 2017, Aaron Tanti come around the first lap in 4th place, behind Jackson Richardson, Wilson Todd and Dylan Wills. Aaron wasted no time in getting used to the track as he kept up a cracking pace for the first 6laps without an issue. Unfortunately, as the track wore in, he made a small mistake over the bars, on a difficult sand section which saw him give up a few places. Aaron regrouped and ended up laying down some great laps, but a few small errors prevented him from a top 5 finish which he was capable of, eventually coming in 10th. In the second moto, Aaron started off outside the top 10 but rode very maturely, this time waiting for his competition to make the mistakes. A cleaner run saw him come in a respectable 8th, landing him an overall of 10th for the day. Hugh McKay got a solid start in his first moto, and rode very sensibly picking riders off when the opportunities came up. The younger MXD riders were finding the track tough, yet smart riding from Hugh saw him battling with 3 other riders for a potential top

5 spot. While passing was tricky, Hugh managed to go from 8th to 7th on the last lap with an aggressive overtake. Hugh’s second moto started off in a similar fashion, but at the mid-way point he had manoeuvred himself into 6th position, one of his best in MXD, where he looked quite settled holding a long gap to the riders behind him. As luck would have it, a small error stalling the bike ended up causing quite a delay, with Hugh then losing a few spots late in the race. With little opportunity to claw back time, Hugh came in just outside the top 10, but his first race result combined to give him 9th for the day. Walking away from the round, the team had mixed feelings. While the results weren’t what they could have been, it’s clear both Hugh and Aaron are riding at a top 5 pace and are very much in the mix for those types of results. Connor Tierney meanwhile was chomping at the bit to get out there himself, and was certainly inspired to see his old MXD sparring partner, Mitch Evans reach the podium in his first race in MX2. Connor and Mitch battled throughout 2016 in MXD at the very front, so Connor is quietly confident he has the pace to be at the front once he’s fully healed and back into it.

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DEAN FERRIS Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no better way to answer your critics than race away to a 1-1 finish at the season opener. With an array of riders stepping up or returning the premier class from injury, the defending champ picked up where he left off in 2016 proving heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s once again the man to beat in the 450 class.

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