2015 OFFICIAL SOUVENIR PROGRAM
PRESENTED BY
CMRC1_Cover.indd 1
5/13/2015 11:39:09 AM
15_Brett_Metcalfe_MXP_CANA_dps.indd All Pages Thor.indd 2
2015-05-13 3:23 PM
THORMX.COM
Thor.indd 3
5/13/15 9:01 2015-05-13 3:23AM PM
www.gammasales.com www.flyracing.com
Fly.indd 2
2015-05-12 5:28 PM
Fly.indd 3
2015-05-12 5:28 PM
Troy Lee Design 15.01.indd 1
2015-03-26 11:41 AM
WWW.TROYLEEDESIGNS.CA
Troy Lee Design 15.01.indd 2
2015-03-26 11:41 AM
www.gammasales.com
NFX.indd 2
2015-05-12 5:29 PM
NFX.indd 3
2015-05-12 5:29 PM
2015 FACTORY RIDE EDITION
MAKE EVERY RIDE A FACTORY RIDE
WWW.FXRRACING.COM /FXRRACING.COM
/FXRRACING
RYAN MILLAR
2015
CONGRATULATIONS
COLTON FACCIOTTI
2014 CANADIAN NATIONAL MOTOCROSS MX1 CHAMPION
Congratulations to the entire Honda Gopher Dunes Racing Team!
Honda_H14-SPMC-0625_Colton_DPS_EN_v1c1.indd 1 Honda.indd 2
2014-09-23 4:54 PM
TRUST A CHAMP We make our bikes with performance in mind. Colton chose his bike with winning in mind. Isn’t it great when a good plan comes together? Find yours at honda.ca 2014 Honda CRF450R
Honda Motorcycles & ATVs Canada
@HondaPowerCA
Professional rider on closed course with safety precautions taken. Do not attempt.
honda.ca
Honda.indd 3
2014-09-23 1:58 PM 2014-09-23 4:54 PM
2015
C A N A D I A N M OTO S P O R T RA C I N G CO R P.
WELCOME LETTER
W
elcome to the 23rd edition of the Rockstar Energy Drink Motocross Nationals presented by Motovan. It’s hard for me to say it’s been twentythree years because it seems like the time has flown by. Okay, maybe not, but it sure doesn’t feel that long. Through that time we’ve seen the industry dust itself off from the most depressed time period in the early ‘90s to a boom that lasted from the end of the 20th century to 2008. Then it all went for a bust as motorcycle sales went down along with housing, investments and jobs. Times were a little tougher. The one bright light that has continuously improved and grown throughout the good times and bad is the Canadian Motocross Nationals. Every year steps have been taken to make improvements. Sometimes they were big leaps but others just baby steps. Regardless, the series has been going in the right direction for almost a quarter century. This year we’re taking another step forward. We sound like a broken record sometimes saying “This year is going to be the best ever!” but it’s true. If we were to think ten years ago that the level of competition in both the MX1 and MX2 classes was going to be what it is this year, most would have suggested to get our heads read. Metcalfe, Goerke and Facciotti all riding in the same class in the same year? Chya, riiigghhhttt! Add to that Thompson, Kiniry, Medaglia, Maier, Keast, Bles and Kaelin…what? If you really want your mind blown, come to Calgary and Gopher Dunes when Alessi lines up with the crew. The names in the MX2 class may not be as well-known as the riders I listed, but trust me, their speed is right there with the big boys and the racing will be intense. Last year Kaven Benoit was one particular rider’s target, this year the rest of the pack will be aiming for him. That #1 is what everyone is shooting for so it will be interesting to see how the series unfolds. And there’s no better way to watch it unfold. In my day, it was the sweet smell of two-stroke oil, now it’s the rumble of four-strokes. I can’t think of any other sport when the level of excitement is so high, especially when forty testosteronefilled maniacs pin their throttles to the max to claim the much desired Holeshot. If you haven’t experienced the thrill, hang on to your pants! You won’t believe what happens after that. Reality is there are only a few that are lucky enough to watch every round live as each race unfolds. So if you really want to be there but choose not to mortgage your house to fly to all rounds, we’re doing the best to get you close enough to the racing without eating some roost. This year you can listen to a live audio broadcast on www.mxnationals.ca with host Brian Koster, who will keep you on the edge of your seat (or dock) throughout the day, plus you can follow the race with live lap times on the same screen. If you would rather lie in the boat all day and soak up the sun, go to our national website afterwards for results, visit our extremely popular Facebook page (www.facebook.com/CMRCMX), check us out on Instagram (www.instagram. com/CMRCMX) or follow us on Twitter (twitter/CMRCRacing). If that doesn’t fill your boots, the television broadcast of the series will start mid-July on Fox Sports Racing where you’ll be able to watch twenty half-hour shows of the best motocross racing coverage on the planet. Twenty-three years and I still get pumped. I truly hope you have a fantastic experience when you watch some of the best motocross racers in the world give it their all at one of the ten tracks in our beautiful country. You’ll then see what all the hype is about.
MXPMAG.COM
C M R C 1 MXP has the exclusive rights to the CMRC’s mailing list of racing license holders. Every CMRC license holder from coast to coast receives and reads each issue of MXP. In addition to this exclusive list of readers, we are partnered with several motocross and off-road enthusiast organizations across the country.
MXP MAGAZINE CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Mike McGill, Brent Worrall, James Lissimore, Craig Stevenson, Drew Robertson, Brian Koster, Bobby Kiniry, Danny Brault, Virgil Knapp, Leticia Cline, Andy White CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS: Virgil Knapp, Randy Wiebe, David Pinkman, Clayton Racicot, James Lissimore, Steve Dutcheshen, Frank Hoppen, Bill Petro, Matt Wellumson, Dan Stenning COVER PHOTO: Nuvo Vision
FOR SUBSCRIPTION INQUIRIES CALL SUBSCRIPTIONS: 416-635-MXP1 PUBLISHER: Charles Stancer/Mark Stallybrass V.P. OF SALES AND MARKETING: Charles Stancer EDITOR: Chris Pomeroy SALES MANAGER: Al Jaggard SENIOR WRITERS: Brian Koster, Brent Worrall STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER: James Lissimore
TEL: 416-633-1202 Email: charles@mxpmag.com Online: www.mxpmag.com
FOR ADVERTISING INQUIRIES CONTACT
CHARLES STANCER | CHARLES@MXPMAG.COM | 416-633-1202
Canadian Publications Mail Products Sales Agreement# 41831514 MX PERFORMANCE is published 7 times per year Canadian Postmaster: SEND ADDRESS CORRECTIONS TO: PO BOX 171 STOUFFVILLE, ONTARIO L4A 7Z5 SUBSCRIPTION RATES: (1 YEAR) CANADA $15.00CDN., U.S.A. $20.00US 416-635-MXP1
MX PERFORMANCE IS PRINTED IN CANADA
DESIGN AND PRODUCTION BY GROUP PUBLISHER & CEO: Tim Rutledge ART DIRECTOR: Mike Chan GRAPHIC DESIGNERS: Patrick Beltijar, Patrick Dinglasan, Queue Gonzalez, Edward Shintani PRODUCTION: Richard Robles
14 M O T O C R O S S P E R F O R M A N C E
Intro_2015CMRC.indd 14
2015-05-12 3:51 PM
ASSAULT JERSEY, PANT & GLOVE
ADULT COMBO
V3 HELMET
ONLY $128.99
MSL $494.95
F2 CARBON HELMET ONLY $329.99
V1 HELMET
ADULT MSL $196.95 YOUTH MSL $144.95
360째 JERSEY, 360째 PANT & FLEXAIR GLOVE
FOX INSTINCT
TECH 7 BOOT
BLITZ BOOT
MSL $617.99
ONLY $386.99
ONLY $159.99
RACE BOOT
ADULT COMBO ONLY $296.99
AIR COVERT BRACE TITAN RACE
ELBOW GUARD
ONLY $269.99
ONLY $32.99
TORC1 RACING PRODUCTS
Forged body made of 6061 T6 aluminum for maximum strength and minimum weight. Black anodized finish resists corrosion.
Royal_MXP_Program_2015.indd 1 Royal Distributing.indd 1
KNEE GUARDS
QUADRANT PROTECTOR
5.5 PRO
ONLY $29.99
LADIES $62.99 ADULT $62.99 YOUTH $53.99 PEEWEE $49.99
ONLY $216.99
CHEST PROTECTOR
RENTHAL SPROCKETS HANDLEBARS
11/05/2015 3:34:37 PM 5/14/2015 12:40:56 PM
2015
C A N A D I A N M OTO S P O R T RA C I N G CO R P.
2015 ROCKSTAR ENERGY DRINK MOTOCROSS NATIONALS –SERIES SCHEDULE SUNDAY, MAY 31 Whispering Pines Raceway, Kamloops, British Columbia SUNDAY, JUNE 7 The Wastelands, Nanaimo, British Columbia SUNDAY, JUNE 14 Wild Rose MX Park, Calgary, Alberta SUNDAY, JUNE 21 Moto Valley Raceway, Regina, Saskatchewan SUNDAY, JULY 12 Gopher Dunes, Courtland, Ontario SUNDAY, JULY 19 Sand Del Lee, Richmond, Ontario SUNDAY, JULY 26 Motocross Deschambault, Deschambault, Quebec SUNDAY, AUGUST 2 Riverglade MX Park, Moncton, New Brunswick SUNDAY, AUGUST 9 Motocross Ulverton, Ulverton, Quebec SUNDAY, AUGUST 16 Walton Raceway, Walton, Ontario
STALLYBRASS PROMOTIONS INC. WOULD LIKE TO THANK OUR PARTNERS FOR THEIR SUPPORT OF THE SERIES
16 M O T O C R O S S P E R F O R M A N C E
Schedule_2015CMRC_v1.indd 16
2015-05-13 2:57 PM
Safety:8”
ONLY JUDGE A MAN BY HIS CHARACTER.
p
Safety:10”
p
AND HIS TRUCK.
From grille to tailgate, Ram pickups speak volumes about their owners. From powertrains engineered for superior strength to cabins so well-designed and appointed they’ve earned a Ward’s 10 Best Interiors award, it’s easy to see why Ram trucks hold the highest customer loyalty of any full-size pickup. The 2015 Ram 1500, the Most Fuel-Efficient Pickup In History1, and the Ram Heavy Duty. With a Legendary Cummins® Turbo Diesel or HEMI ® engine, Ram out-measures the others, no matter how you size them up.
TOWs up to CUMMINSS 30,000 LB LEGENDARYY
TURBO DIESEL
®
11.55 TONNES TOONNES more than f3502
RAM HEAVY DUTY
35 mpg hwy more fuel-efcient
than F-150 ecoboost
1
LONGEST O GS LASTING
LINE OF trucks in canada3
highest
ccustomer ustomer
loyalty
of any pickup4
RAM 1500
RAMTRUCK.CA Based on a comparison of 2015 EnerGuide highway fuel consumption ratings for 2015 Ram 1500 4x2 with 3.0L EcoDiesel HFE V6 and 8-speed automatic (up to 35 MPG highway) and 2015 Ford F-150 4x2 EcoBoost V6 6-speed automatic (up to 31 MPG highway). 2Based on 2500/250 and 3500/350 class pickups. 3Longevity based on entire Ram Pickup lineup compared to competitive pickups. Based on IHS Automotive: Polk Canadian Vehicles in Operation data as of July 1, 2014, for MY 1988–2014 for all large pickups sold and available in Canada over the last 27 years. 4Based on third-party Canadian competitive 'trade-in' data for MY2008 to MY2013 new full-size pickups.
1
Ram.indd 2
2015-03-10 3:50 PM
ORANGE BRIGADE Even though the Orange Brigade Team enters 2015 under new direction, the goal of winning both the MX1 and MX2 titles remains the same as always.
EXPOSED
1  M O T O C R O S S P E R F O R M A N C E
Exposed_2015CMRC_v1.indd 1
2015-05-12 3:25 PM
MOTOCROSS PERFORMANCE
Exposed_2015CMRC_v1.indd 2
2
2015-05-12 3:25 PM
FAMILIAR TERRITORY After winning his very first National Championship last year, Kaven Benoit enters 2015 with the same team on the same machine. We think it’s safe to say that he looks ready!
EXPOSED
3 M O T O C R O S S P E R F O R M A N C E
Exposed_2015CMRC_v1.indd 3
2015-05-12 3:25 PM
MOTOCROSS PERFORMANCE
Exposed_2015CMRC_v1.indd 4
4
2015-05-12 3:25 PM
5 M O T O C R O S S P E R F O R M A N C E
Exposed_2015CMRC_v1.indd 5
2015-05-12 3:25 PM
THE WONDER FROM DOWN UNDER After racing in the United States last season, our 2013 MX1 Champion, Brett Metcalfe, is back for another run at Canadian glory. He comes into 2015 fit and riding better than ever.
EXPOSED
MOTOCROSS PERFORMANCE
Exposed_2015CMRC_v1.indd 6
6
2015-05-12 3:25 PM
2015
C A N A D I A N M OTO S P O R T RA C I N G CO R P.
2015 SERIES CHANGES PHOTO BY JAMES LISSIMORE
T
he Rockstar Energy Drink Motocross Nationals presented by Motovan, sanctioned by CMRC, will be celebrating its 23rd year of operation. There have been many changes that have taken place each year to get us to this point, but we’re not stopping here. There’s still lots of room to grow. The most exciting news to announce is the new relationship that has been established with Fox Sports Racing. The 2015 series will be televised on Fox Sports Racing starting the third week of July (dates and times have yet to be released), and will receive several repeats following the premier broadcast. To get viewers revved up before the ’15 series kicks off, Fox Sports Racing will air a repeat performance of the 2014 edition of the Nationals in the months leading up to the launch of the current series. Fox Sports Racing is broadcast nationally in Canada (if your carrier doesn’t offer FSR, give them a call and make the request) and the Caribbean. Additionally, each show will be repackaged into French and aired on RDS2. Quebec is a huge market for motorsports so we anticipate our series being
welcomed with open arms…especially if Kaven Benoit can repeat his performance of last year. There’s not much to mention with new venues because the only change that has been made is Kamloops will be hosting the opening round followed by Nanaimo. This was due in large part to save extra time in travelling for teams and privateers that are making the trek from east of Kamloops, plus the weather may be more cooperative by starting off in the Canadian desert. Our cherished title sponsor, Rockstar Energy Drink, continues to lead the way among our series sponsors, along with Motovan Corporation and their participating OEMs: Zox Helmets, Motul, Scott Goggles, Drift Cameras, EBC Brakes, Dunlop Tires, Pivot Works, Yuasa Batteries, and now Pro Circuit and K&N Filters. We also have a growing Canadian apparel company, FXR, join the mix. The Winnipeg based FXR is a giant in the snowmobile industry, and are now making a push in motocross, so they’re starting on their home turf with the Canadian Nationals. Welcome aboard!
If changes include growth then we’re making lots of changes with our social media. Our national series Facebook page – www.facebook.com/ CMRCMX - has gone from 20,000 to 150,000 likes in one year. Like our page and find out what all the hype is about. You can also follow what’s going on in our series throughout the summer on Instagram – www.instagram.com/CMRCMX as well as Twitter – www.cmrcracing.com. If that’s not enough, you can log on to www.mxnationals.ca to listen to the live call from each race via streaming audio with our long time host Brian Koster, and view the live lap times while you’re at it. You’re obviously a fan of Canadian Motocross; now you can see there’s a host of avenues to stay in touch with each lap of every race. But remember, there’s nothing like watching it live. With Brett Metcalfe and Matt Goerke returning to reclaim the MX1 title, and the stacked line up in MX2 looking to knock Benoit off his perch, you’re not going to want to miss what has been forecasted to be the best national motocross series Canada has ever witnessed. Enjoy!
24 M O T O C R O S S P E R F O R M A N C E
WhatsNew_2015CMRC_v1.indd 32
5/14/2015 1:02:44 PM
NEW
SFF-Air TAC (Triple Air Chamber) Same design as AMA factory racers
Oversized Petal Disc Brakes
THE NEW 20l5 KX®450F n
LAUNCH CONTROL MODE
n
4-POSITION HANDLEBARS
n
3 PLUG-AND-PLAY DFI SETTINGS
n
2-POSITION FOOTPEGS
Kawasaki strives to give you the closest experience to a factory ride. Proven champion and a potent track weapon in the hands of any serious rider, the KX450F’s powerful performance pushes riders to the front of the pack. The proof? It’s on the podium.
KX250F
kawasaki.ca/15KX450F
KX100
THE BIKE THAT BUILDS CHAMPIONS. KX85
KX65
©2015 Canadian Kawasaki Motors Inc. Always wear a helmet, eye protection
and proper riding apparel. Never ride under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Adhere to the maintenance schedule in your owner’s manual.
Kawasaki.indd 1
2015-03-17 4:29 PM
2015
C A N A D I A N M OTO S P O R T RA C I N G CO R P.
ADAM ROBINSON Rockstar Energy OTSFF Yamaha Team Manager brings years of experience to the track each and every weekend. When he’s not running around to make sure every detail of the team is in perfect order, he can be seen helping out his team’s mechanics to make sure the bikes are in perfect running order.
DARYL MURPHY With his role as the Assistant Referee, Daryl Murphy has multiple jobs at the race track. Not only does he help with items like riders meeting, tech inspection and whatever else Head Referee Paul Kingsley needs help with, perhaps his biggest job is getting all of the riders organized and lined up on the starting gate for each moto. Monitoring 40 riders while they pick their gates for their high pressure national motos is not an easy process, however Daryl does it with grace and style every time.
WENDY SNELGROVE Before any of these professional riders can take to the track for their weekend of racing, they must go through the all-important registration process. This happens inside the scoring trailer and it is Wendy Snelgrove that is in charge each weekend. After all of the riders are signed up and the racing begins, Wendy and her staff look after scoring and the results of each national moto at all ten rounds of the series.
JEAN SEBASTIEN ROY To most race fans JSR needs no introduction, because a decade ago he was just putting an exclamation mark on his illustrious racing career with his fifth MX1 Championship in a row. Since then JSR has remained closely involved in the sport in a number of different capacities. This season JSR begins his new role as the Team Manager of the Royal Distributing Fox KTM Team with top Canadian riders Cole Thompson and defending MX2 Champion Kaven Benoit.
JOSH SNIDER Only a few short years ago Josh Snider was on the line battling each weekend in the National motocross series. His team, Redemption Racing, has always had a primary purpose on the racing circuit: his motocross ministry starts the day for teams and riders on Sunday mornings before racing. Redemption’s welcoming and supportive approach with people has made his service an important part of the fabric that is Canadian motocross.
26 M O T O C R O S S P E R F O R M A N C E
Faces_2015CMRC_v1.indd 26
2015-05-12 4:17 PM
C A N A D I A N M OTO S P O R T RA C I N G CO R P.
MARC TRAVERS It’s hard to put into words just how much Marc Travers means to the modern day sport of motocross in Canada. Since 1998, Travers has been the man behind and in front of the camera for the series’ television production. Over the years, Travers has definitely seen a lot happen in Canadian motocross, and he brings this knowledge to each and every broadcast. After all, he’s practically made the word “Holeshhhhooootttt” part of the English language.
PAUL KINGSLEY Every sport needs a person that represents and enforces its rules. Head Referee Paul Kingsley is that individual at the 2015 Rockstar Energy Drink Motocross Nationals presented by Motovan. Kingsley’s no nonsense approach to the rulebook is both fair and consistent, and a lot of the time you’ll hear this sport’s athletes singing his praises. All the riders and teams know that the buck stops at him as he’s earned himself a lot of respect.
KEVIN TYLER A former pro racer himself, Kevin Tyler is now the man in charge of not only managing the MX101 Yamaha Team but also guiding the young career of teen rookie sensation Dylan Wright. Kevin is a smart, level headed and passionate motocross guy who loves nothing more than being at or near a motocross track. It’s very rare to see Kevin without a huge smile on his face in the pits.
BRIAN KOSTER While Don Cherry has Ron Mclean as a sidekick, Marc Travers has Brian Koster as his main confidant. Koster has been around this sport for years and brings a knowledge of motocross that is virtually unmatched. Koster not only helps out with the television production but he is also the host of the Online Radio Show that broadcasts live from each round of the series. If you’re not able to make it out to a race, then you can go on the internet (www. mxnationals.ca) and listen to Brian Koster call each and every race.
2015
CHRIS POMEROY “Palms,” as he’s known around the track, has been around motocross for 35 years and has seen the sport from every angle. Palms is another former pro racer who now runs the editorial department at MXP Magazine and mxpmag.com. If you want to read about Canadian Motocross then MXP is the place to go. Palms also loves to talk about the sport to anyone at any time, so if you see him around the paddock, please feel free to ask him a question.
MOTOCROSS PERFORMANCE
Faces_2015CMRC_v1.indd 27
27
2015-05-12 4:17 PM
2015
C A N A D I A N M OTO S P O R T RA C I N G CO R P.
WHAT ARE THE CLASSES? WORDS BY CHRIS POMEROY •
PHOTOS BY JAMES LISSIMORE
T
he 2015 Rockstar Energy Drink Motocross Nationals presented by Motovan are split into two classes, MX1 and MX2. The MX1 class competes on the bigger 450cc machines; this class consists of riders that are considered to be the premier riders in the series. You will see names like Brett Metcalfe, Colton Facciotti, Matt Goerke, Cole Thompson, Tyler Medaglia and Bobby Kiniry. The MX1 class motos are 30 minutes plus 2 laps in length. The MX2 class competes on the smaller 250F or 250 two-stroke machines. These riders are generally younger and less experienced than the MX1 riders, although there are exceptions. The MX2 motos are a little shorter at only 25 minutes plus 2 laps, but given the lesser experience of these riders, the racing is quite intense and a little more unpredictable. WHAT BRAND OF BIKES DO THESE RIDERS RACE? There are six main brands of motocross bikes — Kawasaki, Honda, Yamaha, KTM, Husqvarna and
Suzuki. Even though a sponsor may dictate what colour a rider’s bike is, the general rule is that Kawasakis are green, Hondas are red, Yamahas are blue, KTMs are orange, Husqvarnas are white and Suzukis are yellow. Although there might be a few subtle diff erences between the bikes, they are all very similar in power and performance. They all use a fi ve-speed transmission, the clutch is always located on the left side of the handlebars, the front brake is on the right, the rear brake pedal is located by your right foot and the gear shifter is by your left foot. They all use a kick starter with the exception of the KTM and Husqvarna, which have electric start. WHY ARE SOME NUMBER PLATES DIFFERENT COLOURS? This determines what class you’re riding. The MX1 class uses black numbers on white plates and the MX2 class uses white numbers on black plates. Occasionally you will see bikes that have black
numbers on yellow backgrounds in the MX2 class. These riders normally compete in the amateur Intermediate class but are allowed to attempt to qualify for the MX2 Pro/Am class. A rider with a white number on a red background is the series leader in their respective class. All these colours make it very easy for the lap scorers and the fans to distinguish the class in which the riders race. WHAT DOES THE BIG 30 SECOND BOARD ON THE STARTING LINE MEAN? This is how a motocross race begins. After the riders are given a parade lap to inspect the track, they line back up at the gate. The starting line official pans the line to see if the riders and their machines are ready to go. This is a rider’s last chance to delay the start. Once all the riders are ready, the official hands it over to the 30 second girl, who holds up the 30 second board for 30 seconds. After 30 seconds she flips the board to display the 5 second board, then after 5
28 M O T O C R O S S P E R F O R M A N C E
FanGuide_2015CMRC_v1.indd 28
2015-05-13 10:25 AM
C A N A D I A N M OTO S P O R T RA C I N G CO R P.
seconds she turns the board sideways. At this point gate will fall within the next 5 seconds. This may sound complicated but for these experienced riders it is all pretty simple. WHAT DO ALL THE FLAGS MEAN? The offi cials use a series of fl ags to indicate to the riders the diff erent situations that might arise during a race. The green flag, displayed at the finish line at the end of the first lap, means that the track is clear and the race is a go. However, if the red flag is waved, this means there has been an accident that needs the attention of all the officials and ambulance personnel and the race needs to be stopped. If the red flag is given past the halfway point of a moto, the race will be declared complete and the riders will be scored as they were when the red flag was given. The yellow flag is a caution flag, which lets the rider know that there is a rider down ahead. A red
cross flag means that not only is a rider down but that the rider needs medical attention. When a rider sees a red cross flag they know that there is medical staff on the track and they have to use extreme caution and are not allowed to have their wheels leave the ground over a jump. The white flag is given at the finish line indicating that the race has one lap remaining. The checkered flag means the race is over. With the long, tiring motos that these riders have to endure, this is a welcomed sight. DO THE RIDERS CHOOSE THEIR NUMBERS? The numbers from 1 to 99 are assigned to riders based on their overall points from the previous year. Newcomers to the series and those finishing outside the top 100 the previous year can choose any three digit number on a first come-first serve basis. HOW DO THE RIDERS CHOOSE THEIR STARTING GATE? For each round of the series the gate pick for the
2015
opening moto is given by the order in which the rider qualified the morning of the race. Each rider has a transponder attached to their bike. In the morning of the race a timed qualifying session is held and the rider with the fastest lap time from that session gets the first pick on the gate, and the remaining riders choose according to their qualifying lap time. For the second moto of the day, gate pick is determined by how the rider finishes in the first moto. This is a very fair way doing things and it ensures that all the riders and officials are happy. WHAT DOES IT MEAN WHEN A RIDER GETS THE HOLESHOT? The holeshot goes to the rider that reaches the holeshot line past the first turn after the start. This brave, crafty rider gets the prestigious job of leading the pack around the track for as long as he can hold the position, and receives the Royal Distributing Holeshot Award.
MOTOCROSS PERFORMANCE
FanGuide_2015CMRC_v1.indd 29
29
2015-05-13 10:26 AM
2015
C A N A D I A N M OTO S P O R T RA C I N G CO R P.
NATIONAL TELEVISION COVERAGE ON FOX SPORTS RACING & RDS2 PHOTOS BY NOVO VISION
W
hether you catch the action of the Rockstar Energy Drink Motocross Nationals presented by Motovan live or not, the televised coverage of each round is just as exciting. This year there have been some exciting changes to our broadcast partners that will give you a better opportunity to watch the coverage. The new Fox Sports Racing network, available nationally, will premiere the 2015 series in the third week of July, plus will also air numerous repeats of each show. To get viewers primed for the upcoming series, Fox Sports Racing will show each round of the 2014 series that saw Colton Facciotti and Kaven Benoit race to their respective MX1 and MX2
championship titles. Exact dates and times of each show were not finalized at press time, so keep an eye on www.mxnationals.ca or the national series Facebook page – www.facebook.com/CMRCMX for a complete schedule. Contact your cable provider if they don’t off er Fox Sports Racing. For Quebec residents, a new arrangement has been made with RDS2 to broadcast the show in the fourth quarter of the year. Each half hour show will be repackaged in French and delivered to the thousands of motocross loving fans in the province. Once again, times have yet to be finalized but will be announced upon receipt.
STALLYBRASS PROMOTIONS INC. WOULD LIKE TO THANK OUR PARTNERS FOR THEIR SUPPORT OF THE SERIES
30 M O T O C R O S S P E R F O R M A N C E
Schedule_2015CMRC_v1.indd 30
2015-05-13 2:56 PM
CRAZY FAST SUPER LIGHT
www.ktmcanada.com
GAME CHANGER
Photo: S. Cudby
Professional rider on a closed course. Always wear proper safety equipment.
THE RADICALLY NEW 2015 KTM 450 SX-F FACTORY EDITION. NEW FROM THE GROUND UP. LIGHTER, FASTER AND MORE REFINED THAN ANY 450 MX BIKE BEFORE IT.
/ktmcanada
KTM_Ad_SX_Dungey_USA_MY15FE_1-Page.indd 1
KTM Group Partner
2015-03-27 4:22 PM
CHAMPIONS CHOICE. The best riders choose the best equipment to win championships
Marin_2015CMRC_v2.indd 1
2015-05-13 10:31 AM
@MARINBIKES Marin_2015CMRC_v2.indd 2
2015-05-13 10:32 AM
2015
C A N A D I A N M OTO S P O R T RA C I N G CO R P.
PREVIEW OF WESTERN TRACKS ROUND 1 Kamloops, BC Whispering Pines Raceway May 30/31, 2015
ROUND 2 Nanaimo, BC The Wastelands June 6/7, 2015
As we kick off the 2015 season in style, the series moves to beautiful Kamloops, BC for the opening round. Every rider in the series loves the Whispering Pines track because of its sandy soil and challenging layout. This circuit will definitely be a rough and tough track to begin the 2015 Rockstar Energy Drink Motocross Nationals. The Whispering Pines track itself is on flat ground with some man made rolling sections. For 2015, the track has gone through a few changes, which has increased the lap times to well over two minutes. The new track uses fresh dirt and is much more spectator friendly. The soil is sandy on top but has a hard base underneath. This means that it will get really rough like sand tracks typically do, but will also form hard, sharp edged holes that are hard on a rider’s upper body. There are some really fast straights where the riders must remain focused, especially on the larger and more powerful 450 machines where speeds can reach over 80KPH.
Formally known as the opening round of the Rockstar Energy Drink Motocross Nationals, for 2015 The Wastelands in picturesque Nanaimo, BC has now moved down the schedule to round two. While not every rider finds success on this track, there isn’t one person who doesn’t enjoy visiting the Nanaimo area. The Nanaimo Motocross Association has always done a great job each year preparing their facility and track, and this year is no different. The Wastelands has a group of very enthusiastic club members involved in hosting this event, and each year the National is the must-attend event on Vancouver Island. Originally, the track was tight and tough to pass on, however over the years it has been lengthened and modified to accommodate the fast bikes that participate in both the MX2 and MX1 classes. Even with the changes, the Wastelands track always provides great racing and some of the best scenery of the series.
34 M O T O C R O S S P E R F O R M A N C E
WesternPreview_2015CMRC.indd 34
2015-05-12 4:10 PM
C A N A D I A N M OTO S P O R T RA C I N G CO R P.
2015
ROUND 3 Calgary, AB Wild Rose Motocross Park June 13/14, 2015
ROUND 4 Regina, SK Moto Valley Raceway June 20/21, 2015
The Wild Rose Motocross Association that runs the track in Calgary are fortunate to have a track that is unique in the motocross world. The track is located minutes from downtown Calgary, a city of a million people! The location is so rare for newcomers to the track because it feels odd driving into a motocross oasis in the middle of a city. This track is a rider favourite as the loamy soil and huge jumps make it a lot of fun to ride. Maybe this is one of the reasons why the Wild Rose track has provided some of the best battles that we’ve ever seen over the years. Every time the series visits Calgary something exciting always seems to happen. If we think back a year ago, the fans in attendance got to witness Mike Alessi go from last to first in moto two of the MX1 class, his admitted best ride of his career. With great spectator viewing and the skyscrapers of Calgary in the background, this round of the 2015 Rockstar Energy Drink Motocross Nationals is sure to be one of the most entertaining of the series.
The Moto Valley Raceway track is a unique one for the riders because of its elevation changes and breathtaking jumps. Located northeast of Regina just outside of the city’s boundaries, this venue returned to the series last year after a brief hiatus, however Mother Nature didn’t cooperate as it rained for most of the weekend. This track, when dry, is not only fun for the riders but it’s also terrific for spectating as there are a number of great vantage points. The soil is prime, dark topsoil that holds moisture and presents a challenge to riders once ruts form in the fast straightaways. The corners form lots of long ruts, which again is tricky with the high speeds. Riders definitely need to stay focused on this fast circuit as one mistake could spell disaster. Regina is the final round before the series travels east. All of the riders want to head into the short break with a lot of momentum and good results before they have to face the rough and sandy tracks of the second half of the series.
MOTOCROSS PERFORMANCE
WesternPreview_2015CMRC.indd 35
35
2015-05-12 4:10 PM
2015
C A N A D I A N M OTO S P O R T RA C I N G CO R P.
COLTON FACCIOTTI WORDS BY CHRIS POMEROY • PHOTO BY JAMES LISSIMORE
A
fter two years of devastating injuries that threatened to derail his career, Colton Facciotti came into last season looking for redemption. Armed with a potent Honda CRF450 and the backing of Honda Canada, as well as the relatively new GDR Honda Team, Colton came out swinging at round one of the 2014 Rockstar Energy Drink Motocross Nationals in Nanaimo, BC and never looked back, eventually taking home his third MX1 Championship. Heading into this summer the circumstances are a little different for the fastest man in Canada. Not only is he carrying the pressure that comes with being the defending champion, he is also balancing the life as a world class athlete with parenthood, as he became a father late last year. However, the one thing Colton has learned over the years is how to remain ultra-focused regardless of what’s going on around him. With this in mind, few doubt he will not bring the same speed and determination into the 2015 MX1 title chase. MXP: Hey Colton, how are things going? CF: Things are good, no complaints, that’s for sure. MXP: I know you’re still recovering from an injury you suffered down in Georgia. How is that process going? CF: So far it’s going well. I ended up cracking my pelvis so it’s taken a little longer to heal than first thought. However, it’s finally feeling good and I hope to be back on the bike here soon. MXP: So as we speak we’re about a month away from round one in Kamloops. Does it concern you at all that you might not have enough time to fully prepare? CF: Well, it’s certainly crossed my mind but there isn’t much I can do about it now. Even though I have the injury, I’ve been able to keep training off the bike so I still feel fit. Also, up until my crash I had a really good base, so other than a little time off the bike I think I’ll be fine. MXP: You’ve been home in Ontario since your injury. Are you planning to head back down to Georgia to continue your preparation or will you just stay home and train? CF: We’re trying to decide that now so we’ll figure things out soon. Right now I’m leaning towards staying in Ontario to ride and test instead of going back down south. The weather seems to be warming up and I have a few really good tracks near my home so it really doesn’t make much sense to drive 18 hours just to do what I can do here.
MXP: Let’s go back to last year for a minute. You came into 2014 on a brand new bike and with a new team, not to mention returning after two years of injuries. However, you were able to start the series with a win and you never really looked back. How did you do it? CF: Well, it definitely wasn’t easy, that’s for sure. Throughout the series last year I had to battle a few different riders. Mike Alessi was tough, Kiniry was tough, Tyler Medaglia was consistent as always, and towards the end of the series Kyle Chisholm started to figure things out. I really just tried to stay positive and ride smart. Even though I wasn’t the faster rider every weekend, I was still able to score points, and thanks to the GDR Honda Team and my mechanic we didn’t have any problems. MXP: The riders you just mentioned are all very different on and off the track. As a top athlete in your sport, do you keep track of the habits of the riders you know you’re going to be battling with? Like a goalie in the NHL would know the tendencies of some of the top shooters? CF: For sure, I mean I don’t make notes or anything but I definitely know what to expect from all of the riders I’m racing with. I think you have to keep track because, as you said, every rider is so different. Some riders are a little more dirty than others, some are hard to pass and some are very good starters. It helps to know what to expect when you’re on the track. MXP: We’ve talked about this a few times but I’ve never seen you ride as smart as you did last summer. But here we are, a new year and a few former MX1 champions coming back to battle with you. Do you think about who’s coming and what they’ll be like? CF: Sometimes I think about it but honestly all I can really do is prepare myself the best I can. I’ve proven in the past that if I can stay healthy for the entire series then good things can happen. There are a few riders that are going to be tough this summer, but that’s racing and that’s the fun part of it. I feel like I have the best package at the track so hopefully we’ll have another successful summer. MXP: The 2015 series is beginning in beautiful Kamloops this year instead of Nanaimo. Does it make a difference where the first gate drop is? CF: Not really, I really like the track in Kamloops so I have no issue there. I’ve always done well at Nanaimo
also so I look forward to going there as well. All of the riders spend so much time preparing for this series during the off-season, so all we want to do is get racing, it doesn’t matter where. MXP: The tracks for 2015 are the same as last year. Do you have a favourite? CF: I actually enjoy riding all the tracks in the series. They are all different and very interesting in their own way. We’re lucky in Canada to have so many different types of tracks with varying types of dirt, it keeps things exciting. MXP: That’s true, to win a championship in Canada you definitely have to be able ride in every type of condition. I have one more question for you Colton. I always find it interesting when professional athletes become parents, because to be a successful athlete you obviously have to live a very selfish existence. Then a baby arrives in the picture and in an instant you’re not the most important person anymore. How has that transition gone for you? CF: I definitely understand what you’re saying, it’s not just about me or my wife anymore. Keagan is number one now and everything we do revolves around him. So far it’s been great. With my wife on maternity leave, she and Keagan were able to come down to Georgia with me so that was great. Usually I’m down there by myself so to have them there and to be able to watch Keagan during the first few months of his life was awesome. MXP: Yes, life definitely takes on a whole new meaning when you become a parent. I think it’s really cool to watch you riders grow up and then become parents. There’s a real baby train in Canadian motocross right now, everyone seems to be having kids. CF: It’s the cold winters! MXP: True! Well Colton, thanks for all of your time. I know I speak for everyone when I say that I can’t wait to watch you defend your number one plate this summer. Good luck and we’ll see you in Kamloops. CF: Thanks Palms, it should be an exciting summer, for sure. Hopefully I can put my GDR Honda on top again.
36 M O T O C R O S S P E R F O R M A N C E
Colt45_2015CMRC_v1.indd 36
2015-05-13 2:03 PM
Colt45_2015CMRC_v1.indd 37
2015-05-13 2:03 PM
2015
C A N A D I A N M OTO S P O R T RA C I N G CO R P.
ROCKSTAR ENERGY OTSFF YAMAHA
Shawn Maffenbeier
TEAM MANAGER Adam Robinson RIDERS Bobby Kiniry - #7 MX1 Mechanic: Steve Simms Matt Goerke - #101 MX1 Mechanic: Mike Van Zandvoort Shawn Maffenbeier - #14 MX2 Mechanic: Chris Lovell SPONSORS Rockstar Energy Drink, Yamaha Canada, OTSFF, Alias MX, Motul, Bell, Pirelli, Sunstar, Odi, Galfer, Motion Pro, Kimpex, Dubya, Factory Connection, Giant, NGK, New Era, Matrix, Mongosse, MXP, Permatex, Pro Circuit, Rona, Rekluse, Sunstar, GET, Moto Park, VP Fuels, 2UNDR, Ironclad, Scott, Evans, GoPro, Cycra, Twin Air, Xtrig, Flu Designs, NTN, Stomp, Platinum, Autotrim
Bobby Kiniry
Matt Goerke
38 M O T O C R O S S P E R F O R M A N C E
1ACMRC_v1.indd 38
2015-05-13 3:06 PM
C A N A D I A N M OTO S P O R T RA C I N G CO R P.
2015
HONDA CANADA GDR
TEAM MANAGER Derek Schuster RIDERS Colton Facciotti - #1 MX1 Mechanic: Justin Petker Jeremy Medaglia - #21 MX2 Mechanic: Kyle Ward SPONSORS Honda Canada, Troy Lee Designs, Hitcase, Humberview Group, Oakley, Yoshimura, Marin, Atlas Brace, Dunlop, Proven Moto, Superior Suspension Settings, Dyco Tool, Pro Honda Oils and Lubricants, Mechanix Wear, Hinson, ProCRF, Parts Canada, Alpinestars, 2UNDR, Dissent, Wiseco, Macnab, 1.7, Twin Air, Matrix, Evans Cooling, Renthal, Xtrig, Toronto Digital Imaging, Works Connection, Back In Motion, ARC, Motoseat, CMT, Keast Metal Works, Cycra, D.I.D, Galfer, Limenine, HSL, Hammerhead, Next, Snap-on, New Era, Race Tech Titanium RED RIDER SUPPORT TEAM Team Manager: Derek Schuster RIDERS Kyle Keast - #30 MX1 Westen Wrozyna - #34 MX2
Colton Facciotti
Jeremy Medaglia
MOTOCROSS PERFORMANCE
GDR_2015CMRC_v1.indd 39
39
2015-05-12 4:19 PM
2015
C A N A D I A N M OTO S P O R T RA C I N G CO R P.
MONSTER ENERGY THOR KAWASAKI
TEAM MANAGER Jason Hughes RIDERS Brett Metcalfe - #123 MX1 Mechanic: Luc Caouette Teddy Maier - #5 MX1 Mechanic: Adam Call Cole Martinez - #134 MX2 Mechanic: Mike Smith SPONSORS Monster Energy, Thor, Kawasaki, Parts Canada, Leading Edge Motorsports, Alpinestars, Pro Circuit, Renthal,Galfer Performance Braking Systems, Boyesen, Acerbis, Dunlop, D. l. D, Dirt Candy, VP Fuels, Hot Cams,Samco Hoses, C4MX, XTrig Racing Technology, Hinson Clutch Components, Mechanix Wear, Motorex,Matrix Concepts, Sunstar, All Balls Racing, Cometic Gasket, Motion Pro, 100% Goggles, Stompgrip,Works Connection, Dubya Wheels, Sony Canada, Graeme Brough Suspension, DTI Filters, American Kargo, Propegs Brett Metcalfe
Teddy Maier
40 M O T O C R O S S P E R F O R M A N C E
Monster_2015CMRC_v1.indd 40
2015-05-12 4:23 PM
C A N A D I A N M OTO S P O R T RA C I N G CO R P.
2015
ROYAL DISTRIBUTING FOX KTM CANADA
TEAM MANAGER Jean Sebastien Roy RIDERS Kaven Benoit - #1 MX2 Mechanic: Jerome Therrien Cole Thompson MX1 #148 Mechanic: Stephan Leblanc SPONSORS KTM, Fox, Royal Distributing, FMF, ATPAQ, Motorex, Averna, Dunlop, GE Acerbic, Shorai, CL brakes, DID chains, DID Dirt Star, Dubya Wheels, Kutvek, Matrix, DT1 Filters , Mechanix Wear, Moto-Master, Rekluse, Mongoose Machine, Renthal Bars, SSS , Tmdesignworks, VP Fuels, Works Connection, Raptor Footpegs, GET Ingnition, KTM Power Parts Kaven Benoit
Cole Thompson
MOTOCROSS PERFORMANCE
KTM_2015CMRC_v1.indd 41
41
2015-05-12 3:21 PM
2015
C A N A D I A N M OTO S P O R T RA C I N G CO R P.
CANADA’S MOTORCYCLE FXR YAMAHA
TEAM MANAGER Kevin Tyler RIDERS Dylan Wright - #20 MX2 Mechanic: Cale Foster Jimmy Decotis #105 Mechanic: Pete McPhail SPONSORS FXR racing, Yamaha Canada, Atlas, FMF, Works Connection, Matrix, Nihilo, Evans, Ride Engineering, Cycra, Innteck, Twin Air, Decal Works, CL Brakes, Cometic, R&R Automation, Motorex, TM Designworks, VP Fuels, Mongoose Machine, GYTR, Guts, Renthal, 100%, 6D Helmets, Forma Boots, Dunlop, SSS Suspension, Mechanix Wear Dylan Wright
Jimmy Decotis
42 M O T O C R O S S P E R F O R M A N C E
FXR_2015CMRC_v1.indd 42
2015-05-12 4:33 PM
C A N A D I A N M OTO S P O R T RA C I N G CO R P.
2015
PARTS CANADA HUSQVARNA
Tyler Medaglia
TEAM MANAGER Derrick Medaglia RIDER Tyler Medaglia - #3 MX1 Mechanic: Derrick Medaglia SPONSORS Parts Canada, Husqvarna Canada, Belray, Thor, Alpinestars, Acerbis, FMF, Dunlop, Kutvek Graphics
MOTOCROSS PERFORMANCE
6A.indd 43
43
2015-05-12 4:24 PM
2015
C A N A D I A N M OTO S P O R T RA C I N G CO R P.
REDEMPTION GP BIKES KTM FLY RACING
TEAM MANAGER Josh Snider RIDERS Nathan Bles - #20 MX1 Mechanic: Josh Snider Seth Rarick - #17 MX2 Mechanic: Garrett Good Eric Jeff ery - #69 MX1 Mechanic: Scott Jeff ery Alex Jeff ery - #111 MX2 SPONSORS Fly Racing, Dragon, Gamma, GP Bikes, Jeff ery Homes, Boot Trucking, All Weather Windows, Tisco, Sunstar, Spectro Oils, Dunlop, Hot Cams, Hot Rods, Pivot Works, Vertex, Ride Engineering, FMF, VP Race Fuel, Dubya, Cycra, Friesen Plastic Products, Hinson, Matrix, Coastal Coff ee, Toronto Digital Imaging, Redemption Racing Development Nathan Bles
Seth Rarick
44 M O T O C R O S S P E R F O R M A N C E
2b_v1.indd 44
2015-05-12 4:26 PM
C A N A D I A N M OTO S P O R T RA C I N G CO R P.
2015
DEVILS LAKE YAMAHA RACING TEAM TEAM MANAGER Cal Nowicki RIDERS Dylan Kaelin - #8 MX1 Mechanic: Cal Nowicki Blake Savage - #762 MX2 Mechanic: Jeff Holt SPONSORS Yamaha Canada, Riverside Motorsports, Motovan, Dunlop, Maxima Oils, Lydell Group, Terra Pro, Stetson GM, Manluk Heavy Metal, Pro-Action Suspension, DRD, VP Fuels, Proven MotoRide, Industries Graphics, Art Wear, Motoseat, JT Sprockets and Chains, Hiflofiltro, Works Connection, SBS, Answer, Renthal, Motion Pro, Hinson Clutch Components
MOTOCROSS PERFORMANCE
Devil'sLake_2015CMRC_v1.indd 45
45
2015-05-12 3:40 PM
2015
C A N A D I A N M OTO S P O R T RA C I N G CO R P.
RTR POWERSPORTS KTM
TEAM MANAGER Eric Dube RIDERS Dylan Schmoke - #23 MX1 Josh Allen - #74 MX1 Michael Da Silva - #26 MX1 SPONSORS FXR, DS Custom Decals, Maxima, VP Fuels, Motovan, KTM Canada
GA CHECKPOINT YAMAHA
TEAM MANAGER Ed Wagstaff RIDERS Brad Nauditt - #620 MX2 Dylan Delaplace - #291 MX2
Brad Nauditt
Dylan Delaplace
46 M O T O C R O S S P E R F O R M A N C E
3B_2015CMRC_v2.indd 46
2015-05-13 3:50 PM
MM.indd 1
2015-05-13 3:45 PM
48 M O T O C R O S S P E R F O R M A N C E
MX1_2015CMRC_v2.indd 48
2015-05-13 2:59 PM
2015 MX1 PREVIEW WORDS BY RYAN LOCKHART PHOTOS BY JAMES LISSIMORE
H
eading into the 2015 Rockstar Energy Drink Motocross Nationals presented by Motovan, the MX1 class certainly boosts a talent-packed field. For the first time since the early 2000s there will be three former National Champions lined up at the opening round, all ready to prove that they’re the best. As well as these former champions, there is also a host of other MX1 riders that are all looking for a chance to claim their very first title. The three former champions that we’re referring to are the 2012 MX1 Champion, Matt Goerke, the 2013 Champion, Brett Metcalfe, and of course last season’s MX1 Champion, Colton Facciotti. These three riders will start the 2015 series after taking very different roads during the off-season. For instance, Goerke competed all winter in the highly competitive Amsoil Arenacross Series while Brett Metcalfe rode the first six rounds of the 2015 AMA Supercross Series. The other rider in this trio is the man who will carry the #1 plate into the opening round in Kamloops. Instead of racing, Colton spent most of the winter training at the Georgia Practice Facility in Cairo, GA, training and preparing for the 2015 season. While all three of these riders enter the series with different stories, they all have the same agenda, which is to become the 2015 MX1 Champion. The MX1 supporting cast is pretty amazing as well, which includes names like Tyler Medaglia, Bobby Kiniry, Cole Thompson, Kyle Keast, Nathan Bles and Dylan Kaelin. These riders will no doubt be a factor at each and every round of the 2015 series. Another item that all of the MX1 riders will have to deal with is the diversity in track conditions of the western rounds. At round one in Kamloops the riders will be tested with a very rough, sandy track, which will test their endurance right from the first gate drop. At round two in Nanaimo the conditions will be hard packed and relatively smooth. At round three in Calgary the riders will have to navigate severe elevation changes and massive jumps before the western swing concludes at the high speed track in Regina. If the MX1 riders want to have a successful first four rounds of the 2015 Rockstar Energy Drink Motocross Nationals presented by Motovan then they’ll have to be focused and prepared to adapt quickly to changing track conditions. As we’ve done the last two years, we called upon Ryan Lockhart to give us his MX1 class predictions. Ryan will actually be lining up on the starting gate at a few of the western rounds so few people know this class better than him. The last two years Ryan has correctly predicted the MX1 champion. Will he once again be correct? Only time will tell as the 2015 series makes its way across Canada. Let’s join Ryan as he looks into the MX1 crystal ball.
MOTOCROSS PERFORMANCE
MX1_2015CMRC_v2.indd 49
49
2015-05-13 2:59 PM
2015
C A N A D I A N M OTO S P O R T RA C I N G CO R P.
BRETT METCALFE #123 MONSTER ENERGY THOR KAWASAKI
#1. Brett Metcalfe: Monster Energy Thor Kawasaki It’s pretty hard to bet against Brett Metcalfe coming into the 2015 Rockstar Energy Drink MX Nationals presented by Motovan. When he was up here in 2013 he was recovering from a major injury and just getting back up to speed, and if you recall he won the MX1 title that year. This year he’s coming off a very successful 2014 where he finished a very impressive 4th in the U.S. Outdoor Series riding for the factory Kawasaki team. This year he’s familiar with his Monster Energy Thor Kawasaki Team, plus he also knows the tracks of the series as well as all of the logistics this time around. Will he win every moto? No, but I can see him being on the podium every weekend and being very tough to beat for the championship. #2. Colton Facciotti: GDR Honda Canada Troy Lee Designs
I have such a hard time doing these because you can just never count out a guy like Colton. I know that his off-season has gone really well but a small injury has slowed his momentum down a little. Entering his second season with the crew at GDR Honda, I believe they will have the bike even more suited to Colton so his equipment will not be an issue. When Colton is fit and comfortable no one can beat him, however the question is will he be ready for the first round. I think Colton will win his fair share of motos and will be a podium guy every weekend. If he does then 2015 could set up to be a year to remember with Metcalfe and Facciotti going at it head to head for ten rounds. #3. Tyler Medaglia: Husqvarna Parts Canada Good ol’ Tyler, this guy never ceases to amaze me with what he can do on a race track. The last two years people always seemed to have counted him out, but then he’s always been right in the mix by the
mid-way point of the series. With the 2015 series beginning in Kamloops I think this is a big plus for Tyler, because in the past Nanaimo has never been a strong round for him. Kamloops will be a great momentum builder for him as he will undoubtedly come into round one in great shape. Will he be able to deal with the pressure for the championship? I hope so. If he manages to finish on the podium once again in 2015 then he will have had his best season ever. #4 Matt Goerke: Rockstar Energy Drink OTSFF Yamaha Our 2012 MX1 Champion in fourth? Well, here are my thoughts as to why this may happen. I believe Matt Goerke will win motos and Matt will have days when he may be untouchable. However, I think it will take him a little time to adapt to the new bike and team. He has been hard at it since January battling it out in the Amsoil AX series, which didn’t end until early May. This may be an issue as it will give him limited time
50 M O T O C R O S S P E R F O R M A N C E
MX1_2015CMRC_v2.indd 50
2015-05-13 2:59 PM
CONQUER THE
IMPOSSIBLE
HUSQVARNA TE 300
Husky.indd 1
Photos: R. Schedl, H. Mitterbauer, Kenneth Olausson
Please make no attempt to imitate the illustrated riding scenes, always wear protective clothing and observe the applicable provisions of the road traffic regulations! The illustrated vehicles may vary in selected details from the production models and some illustrations feature optional equipment available at additional cost. www.kiska.com
www.husqvarna-motorcycles.com
Conquer your fears and tackle whatever challenges Mother Nature throws your way. Extreme performance, low maintenance costs and lightweight agility fuse with championship-proven reliability in the 2015 Husqvarna 2-stroke enduro range. Enduro-specific power delivery and class-leading power across the model range make light work of even the most extreme obstacles. The lightweight chassis combines with top-of-the-line components, premium quality construction, a rear linkage system, a polyamide subframe, the latest WP Suspension and electric start* for a ride that is truly confidence-inspiring. (*excludes TE 125)
2015-05-12 5:32 PM
2015
C A N A D I A N M OTO S P O R T RA C I N G CO R P.
to test his Yamaha for the fast and rough outdoor tracks. On the upside, he knows the tracks and he’s won a championship in Canada before so you just can’t count him out. I also think that Matt is a smart enough rider to know that while it’s important to finish well in the first few rounds, the race for the championship doesn’t really begin until round five at Gopher Dunes. # 5 Cole Thompson: Royal Distributing Fox KTM It just kills me putting Cole fifth in this championship as he‘s a proven MX1 winner. This kid is good, really good. With this being his first full season competing in the entire national series it might take him some time to adapt to the western tracks, but when the series heads east I think that’s when we’ll see the real Cole Thompson. He’s had a full winter to test and get ready so I know he’ll be ready. He’s also coming off a very serious knee injury that forced him out of action for most of last year. With that in mind, he will be sure to come into Kamloops hungry, but also a little rusty. The interesting thing is that all five of these riders, in my opinion, will win motos and be podium threats every weekend. Whomever comes out on top in this 2015 MX1 battle will certainly have earned it and we may be about to witness the greatest year of racing this country has ever seen.
COLTON FACCIOTTI #1 GDR HONDA CANADA TROY LEE DESIGNS
COLE THOMPSON #148 ROYAL DISTRIBUTING FOX KTM
52 M O T O C R O S S P E R F O R M A N C E
MX1_2015CMRC_v2.indd 52
2015-05-13 2:59 PM
MXP_SCOTT_SpringIssue_2015.pdf
Scott 15.01.indd 1
1
3/26/15
1:33 PM
2015-03-27 9:30 AM
54 M O T O C R O S S P E R F O R M A N C E
MX2Preview_2015CMRC.indd 54
2015-05-12 4:29 PM
2015 MX2 PREVIEW WORDS BY KYLE BEATON PHOTOS BY JAMES LISSIMORE
A
s we head into the MX2 series of the 2015 Rockstar Energy Drink Motocross Nationals presented by Motovan, we have many questions and very few answers. As was witnessed last year, this class is full of young and aggressive riders who are all trying to make a name for themselves. While consistency may not always be front and center with these young riders, the MX2 class will most certainly be exciting to watch throughout the summer. Beginning at round one in Kamloops, the MX2 riders will be tested right away as they will find Whispering Pines Raceway extremely challenging. From there they follow the setting sun west to the hard packed soil of Nanaimo, then head back east to Calgary for round three, and then the final western round in Regina. All four of these tracks will test these MX2 riders to the fullest and only the smartest rider will take the points lead into round five at Gopher Dunes. Headlining this MX2 class is last year’s champion Kaven Benoit, who comes into 2015 riding with a wave of confidence. Armed once again with his trusted KTM 250 two-stroke, Benoit is looking to have a much more drama-free series than he had last season. Chasing the #1 KTM is the trio of Jeremy Medaglia, Dylan Wright and Shawn Maffenbeier, who all come into 2015 with unanswered questions as they slightly underachieved their goals last year. However, the speed of these riders is definitely not in question as they’re all capable of winning races and possibly this MX2 championship. Another rider who could be a factor in 2015 is Cole Martinez, who will be riding the Canadian series for the first time. Martinez will be riding for the Monster Energy Thor Kawasaki Team, a team who will be looking to rebound after a disastrous 2014. Although Martinez comes in as a bit of an unknown, his resume shows that he’s capable of being a real player in the 2015 MX2 series. Of course, as we get ready for the gate to drop on the 2015 season, the speculation and anticipation is rapid as we all try to predict what might happen. To help us with this process we’ve once again called upon former MX2 specialist Kyle Beaton to give his thoughts about what might happen in this energy charged class in 2015.
MOTOCROSS PERFORMANCE
MX2Preview_2015CMRC.indd 55
55
2015-05-12 4:29 PM
2015
C A N A D I A N M OTO S P O R T RA C I N G CO R P. #1 Kaven Benoit - Royal Distributing Fox KTM How can you not pick this guy to repeat? He absolutely killed it last year, and he has the confidence as well with his new Team Manager, JSR, guiding him. I believe Benoit is definitely the rider to beat in 2015. From what I hear he’s decided to ride the two-stroke all year, which is a great decision considering the success he had on that bike last year. I think the two-stroke will be a little tougher for him on the western tracks, but as long as he can stay in the hunt and stay calm, as the series heads east he’ll once again prevail.
KAVEN BENOIT #1 ROYAL DISTRIBUTING FOX KTM
DYLAN WRIGHT #20 CANADA’S MOTORCYCLE FXR YAMAHA
#2 Jeremy Medaglia - Honda Canada GDR I’m hoping Jeremy comes out and has a great year because he certainly deserves it. I’d like to see Jeremy win this thing but I’m putting him second for a few reasons. First, I think Benoit will be hard to beat, and second, I think Jeremy will need a year on his new Honda before he can make a run at the MX2 Championship. However, if he can get some moto wins early then it might be a different story. Jeremy is a rider that when he’s confident he’s able to get on a roll. I think we’re going to see some great battles between Jeremy and Benoit for the entire series. #3 Shawn Maffenbeier- Rockstar Energy Drink OTSFF Yamaha I think Shawn has the potential to be a podium guy and will battle for wins every weekend this season. However, he must work on minimizing his mistakes in the early rounds of the series. If he does then this could be his year! Shawn works extremely hard and puts a lot of effort into his racing. In my opinion, I think the biggest thing Shawn needs to do is slow down to go faster. To win a championship you must stay calm and sometimes take second or third in a moto instead of trying to win but then crash. Shawn definitely brings a lot of experience into the 2015 MX2 series so this might just be the year that he’s been looking for.
BRAD NAUDITT #620 GA CHECKPOINT YAMAHA
56 M O T O C R O S S P E R F O R M A N C E
MX2Preview_2015CMRC.indd 56
2015-05-12 4:29 PM
C A N A D I A N M OTO S P O R T RA C I N G CO R P. #4 Dylan Wright - Canada’s Motorcycle FXR Yamaha I’m going to gamble on this one just because Dylan is Canadian and I’m all about the maple leaf. As long as Dylan has learned how to be more efficient on his four-stroke then the sky is the limit for this second-year pro rider. Even though Dylan is still a teenager, he works incredibly hard at his craft so it’s only a matter of time before he wins a championship. Sometimes when you’re young and inexperienced you end up trying way too hard, and that is what we saw with Dylan in 2014. But, with a season under his belt, he should be much better this year.
2015
SHAWN MAFFENBEIER #14 ROCKSTAR ENERGY OTSFF YAMAHA
#5 Brad Nauditt- GA Checkpoint Yamaha Brad has raced up here before, and I believe out of all the Americans coming north, he will be the best. He’s comfortable and knows all the tracks, he is also on great bikes and working with Ed from GA Checkpoint. Ed is very good at bringing the best out of his riders as he knows how to get the job done while still having fun. We know from his past races in Canada that Brad will be very fast on the western tracks. The big question is, can he maintain this success as the series moves east. The pace of the MX2 class in 2015 is going to be faster than we’ve seen in years so it’s going to take a very focused and experienced rider to get the job done. Brad brings all of the intangibles needed to have a great season in Canada, however I put him fifth simply because of the raw speed of the riders in front of him.
MOTOCROSS PERFORMANCE
MX2Preview_2015CMRC.indd 57
57
2015-05-12 4:29 PM
2015
C A N A D I A N M OTO S P O R T RA C I N G CO R P. Favourite Track: Real Deal MX training facility in Allendale, South Carolina.
Favourite Track: Cahuilla Creek in California.
Favourite Food: I’ll basically eat anything, however Sherry’s pancakes are the best!
Favourite Food: Steak and homemade perogies Favourite Music: Country
Favourite Music: I usually listen to the top hits but living down here in South Carolina makes you listen to a lot of country!
Goals for 2015: To improve on my last year’s number. Sponsors: Cycle North, Honda Canada, Northern Gateway, Parts Canada, OTSFF, Motovan, Mongoose Machine, Treasure Cove Casino, Spy Optics, Maclean Trucking, Fort Machine Works, my Grandpa, Mom & Dad, Kourtney Lloyd, and Sierra Roth.
Goals for 2015: I want to win the Western Canadian Women’s Nationals this year! At the 2015 Parts Canada TransCan in August my goal is to win the Ladies class and finish top three in the Junior class.
KENNEDY LUTZ Age: 15 Started Racing: Age 4 Bike: Yamaha YZ250F Race Number: 2
Sponsors: I’d really like to thank Schraders, Troy Lee Designs Canada, Atlas Brace, 100% goggles, Matrix, Babbitts, FMF, Renthal, Lynks Racing, Fusion Graphics, Yorkton Dodge, Hinson, Factory Connection, Holeshot Welding, Gaerne, Real Deal MX Training Facility, and the old man - Kenneth!
SARA KING Age: 18 Started Racing: Age 8 Bike: CRF 250 Number: 3
THE 2015 CMRC WESTERN CANADIAN WOMEN’S NATIONAL PREVIEW WORDS BY DENAYE ARNETT • PHOTOS BY JAMES LISSIMORE
T
his series, presented by Schrader’s Yamaha, has grown throughout the years to become one of the most prestigious Women’s racing events in Canada where the top women riders from Western Canada come together to compete for the #1 title.
With multi-time champion Hailey Larson absent from this year’s series, the door is wide open for a brand new champion to emerge. The 2015 series will begin in Kamloops on May 30th and then travel to Nanaimo for round two before concluding in Calgary.
This three round series promises to be very exciting as these women train hard and take the sport very seriously. Following are four riders that are sure to be fighting for the top step of the podium at each round of the 2015 series.
Favourite Track: Kelowna Bear Creek Motocross Track
Favourite track: Whispering Pines, Kamloops, BC
Favourite Food: Fruits & Vegetables, but mostly ice cream.
Favourite Food: Chipotle Favourite Music: Rap
Favourite Music: Country
Goals for 2015: To have some fun and stay in one piece!
Goals for 2015: I would love to make top three this year and get a few holeshots. With all of the stiff competition in 2015 I think the top ten will have some epic battles and I hope to be a part of that.
Sponsors: Holeshot Motorsports, Big Steel Box, Spy Optics, Mom and Dad. Thank you to the following series sponsors, we wouldn’t be able to do any of this without your help:
Sponsors: Valleyspeed Machine Shop, Lordco Autoparts, 100%, Matrix Concepts, GP Moto, Valley Motorsport, KTM Canada, Custom Decal, and my Mom & Dad.
JAMIE MUNRO Age: 20 Started Racing: Age 11 Bike: KTM 250SX-F Race Number: 5
RACHEL SPRINGMAN Age: 22 Started Riding: Age 4 Bike: 2015 YZ250F Race Number: 631
Schrader’s Yamaha, Fox Canada, Matrix, Atlas, Fly, Dragon, Just 1, Gamma Sales, Motovan, Evan’s Cooling, Alternative Groove, Mile Zero, Lucas Bachman Memorial Fund, Valley Motosports, Valley Speed Shop, Cycle North Powersports, CMRC, Trim FX, Troy Lee Designs, Dunlop, GP Moto, Riders Edge Suspension, Ogio, Canada’s Motorcycles, FXR, Canadian Moto Show.
58 M O T O C R O S S P E R F O R M A N C E
WomensPreview_2015CMRC.indd 58
2015-05-12 3:39 PM
Maxima Purpose Built Single Pg MXP Jun2015_Layout 1 5/6/15 3:26 PM Page 1
PURPOSE BUILT FORMULAS.
THE MOST COMPREHENSIVE LINE OF 4-STROKE ENGINE OILS
MAXIMA PRO PLUS+ is an ester fortified full synthetic 4T engine oil. PRO PLUS+ is formulated to exceed JASO MA requirements for 4-cycle engines with integrated wet clutches. Balanced additive system minimizes engine deposits while protecting critical engine and transmission components. PRO PLUS+ is designed to extend clutch life and offers excellent feel.
Maxima.indd 1
2015-05-13 2:20 PM
2015
C A N A D I A N M OTO S P O R T RA C I N G CO R P.
SUPER MINI NATIONAL PREVIEW WORDS BY CHRIS POMEROY • PHOTOS BY JAMES LISSIMORE
W
hen we speak about the exciting things to come in 2015, we definitely have to talk about the inaugural Super Mini Nationals. This three round series will be separated into East and West with a champion being crowned on both sides of the country. The two moto format will take place on the Saturday amateur day before the Pros take to the track on Sunday. This will give young riders a chance to race on the same track as their heroes, then hopefully they’ll stick around to watch those same heroes battle the following day. The KTM Western Canadian Super Mini Nationals will kick off on Saturday, May 30th in Kamloops in what will sure to be a grand event for everyone involved. From there the Super Mini riders will follow the same path as the CMRC Western Canadian Women’s Nationals with stops in Nanaimo and Calgary. For the eastern swing, the Super Mini riders will have their skills tested at the first round at Canada’s toughest track, Gopher Dunes, on July 11, 2015. From there they will not escape the sandy soil of Eastern Canada as their series heads to Sand Del Lee and then to perhaps the most scenic track in all of Canada, Ulverton, QC. To help make these two titles as prestigious as any in Canada, the winners of both the Western and Eastern Canadian Super Mini Nationals will each be awarded a “factory ride” from KTM Canada
and their Orange Brigade Amateur Program, which will include a 2016 motorcycle, a parts credit, and every other perk that goes along with being supported by a manufacturer. There will also be additional prizes from Motovan and their suppliers Scott, Zox and OGIO. Even though these fast kids will win trophies and numerous prizes throughout this brand new series, the real jackpot for these talented kids will be the exposure that comes with competing at a high profile event like the Rockstar Energy Drink Motocross Nationals presented by Motovan. When these young riders line up their 85cc to 112cc twostrokes up on the starting gate, a lot of eyes will be watching to see who might be the next Colton Facciotti or Cole Thompson. These riders will also be receiving National television coverage as these races will be included in a highlight package during the pro race broadcast. This series gives our young riders an incredible opportunity to not only perform on a large stage, but also to learn what it’s like to compete at a high profile event where the pressure can be immense. With names like Casey Keast and Jacob Piccolo all set to compete in the KTM Western Canadian Super Mini Nationals, and Tanner Ward and Jake Tricco in the East, the stage is set for some incredible racing right across this country.
KTM WESTERN CANADIAN SUPER MINI NATIONALS May 30, 2015 Whispering Pines Raceway, Kamloops, BC June 6, 2015 The Wastelands, Nanaimo, BC June 13, 2015 Wild Rose MX Park, Calgary, AB KTM EASTERN CANADIAN SUPER MINI NATIONALS July 11, 2015 Gopher Dunes, Courtland, ON July 18, 2015 Sand Del Lee, Richmond, ON Aug 8, 2015 Motocross Ulverton, Ulverton, QC
“ When these young riders line up their 85cc to 112cc twostrokes on the starting gate, a lot of eyes will be watching to see who might be the next Colton Facciotti or Cole Thompson.”
60 M O T O C R O S S P E R F O R M A N C E
Supermini_2015CMRC_v1.indd 60
2015-05-13 3:08 PM
IRC.indd 1
2015-05-12 5:24 PM
2015
C A N A D I A N M OTO S P O R T RA C I N G CO R P.
TOP 100 NUMBERS 1
COLTON
FACCIOTTI
35
MATTHEW
DAVENPORT
68
ROBERT
WILSON
2
MIKE
ALESSI
36
HAYDEN
HALSTEAD
69
ERIC
JEFFERY
3
TYLER
MEDAGLIA
37
DANIEL
MATHE
70
MATT
BABBITT
4
KYLE
CHISHOLM
38
TIM
TREMBLAY
71
JASON
BENNY
5
TEDDY
MAIER
39
JESSE
PETTIS
72
DREW
ROBERTS
6
JOSH
HILL
40
MIKE
BROWN
73
BROC
PETERSON
7
BOBBY
KINIRY
41
MATT
HAMMER
74
JOSH
ALLEN
8
DYLAN
KAELIN
42
RILEY
BROUGH
75
NICK
COLLINS
9
MORGAN
BURGER
43
JASON
BURKE
76
MICHAEL
BIDUS
10
NATHAN
BLES
44
JOSH
CLARK
77
KONNOR
LONG
11
KAVEN
BENOIT
45
JEFF
ALESSI
78
DYLAN
SUMMERLIN
12
VINCE
FRIESE
46
MICHAEL
FOWLER
79
RYAN
PETERS
14
SHAWN
MAFFENBEIER
47
RYAN
LOCKHART
80
CODY
VAN BUSKIRK
15
JESSE
WENTLAND
48
AUSTIN
KOUBA
81
TREVOR
CARLSON
16
TOPHER
INGALLS
49
BROCK
HOYER
82
DEREK
HAMM
17
SETH
RARICK
50
JARED
ALLISON
83
JARETT
PESCI
18
SYLVAIN
LE GAD
51
BROCK
LEITNER
84
TEAGAN
WILLIAMS
19
AUSTIN
POLITELLI
52
MARSHAL
WELTIN
85
CODIE
ROUSE
20
DYLAN
WRIGHT
53
DAVEY
FRASER
86
ADAM
PFEIFFER
21
JEREMY
MEDAGLIA
54
JOSH
CARTWRIGHT
87
JOEL
BARNOWSKI
22
LIAM
O’ FARRELL
55
KEYLAN
MESTON
88
VINCENT
LAUZON
23
DYLAN
SCHMOKE
56
JAKE
ANSTETT
89
RYAN
LALONDE
24
KYLE
SWANSON
57
TODD
MINNIE
90
JARED
STOCK
25
DAVID
GASSIN
58
GRAHAM
SCOTT
91
MIKE
TREADWELL
26
MICHAEL
DA SILVA
59
PARKER
ALLISON
92
RYAN
DERRY
27
JESSE
PIERCE
60
JAKE
LOBERG
93
DEREK
OUIMET
28
RYAN
MILLAR
61
CODY
WILLIAMS
94
CHRIS
COLENUTT
29
JEREMY
PRONOVOST
62
BOBBY
PIAZZA
95
SAMUEL
BLOUIN
30
KYLE
KEAST
63
DUSTY
HUMPHRIES
96
ALEX
O DELL
31
ZEB
DENNIS
64
JULIAN
CERNY
97
KODY
BILL
32
JARED
PETRUSKA
65
KAMERON
BURGER
98
THOMAS
DENEVE
33
SHAWN
ROBINSON
66
JEREMY
BYRNE
99
DAYMAN
GOOLD
34
WESTEN
WROZYNA
67
DILLAN
EPSTEIN
STALLYBRASS PROMOTIONS INC. WOULD LIKE TO THANK OUR PARTNERS FOR THEIR SUPPORT OF THE SERIES
62 M O T O C R O S S P E R F O R M A N C E
Top100_2015CMRC_v1.indd 62
2015-05-13 2:54 PM
WE’LL WARRANTY YOUR ENGINE UP TO
500,000 km Limited parts Covered. Registration required before 200,000 km.
Get more than a “probably” from your oil. Get a warranty.
If you’re looking for the difference between our oil and others, you won’t find it in industry jargon. That’s why we created the Valvoline Limited Engine Warranty with protection up to 500,000 km. So go to EngineWarranty.com. And get your engine under warranty.
Scan me for more details
Detailed terms, benefits and limitations available at EngineWarranty.com. © 2014, Ashland Inc. TM Trademark of Ashland or its subsidiaries in various countries.
Vavoline 26.03.indd 1
2014-05-01 3:46 PM
YOUR ONE STOP SHOP FOR ALL YOUR
N
E
E
D
S
速
AND MANY MORE.... Available all across Canada through your local dealer
PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO VIEW OUR COMPLETE LINE OF PRODUCTS
www.importationsthibault.com Thibault.indd 1
Follow us on :
2015-05-13 5:22 PM