Motocross MXP 19.06

C A N A D A’ S S O U R C E F O R M O T O C R O S S A N D O F F - R O A D

TA N N E R WAR D

T R E N D I N G

UPWARD 41831514

FEBRUARY 2020 $4.95

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2020 ULTIMATE GEAR GUIDE 2019-12-05 2:56 PM

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2019-10-11 10:54 AM

THE RF wall of winners Mike Fowler

Christian Wiesner

Dustin Schmidt

#60

#300

#527

ROCKSTAR TRIPLE CROWN TOUR AMA SUPERCROSS

OFF-ROAD ONTARIO AND WORLD ENDURO CANADA

THAMES VALLEY RIDERS

2019 RESULTS: • 28TH OVERALL MX1 • PRO #60 FOR 2020

2019 RESULTS: • OFF-ROAD ONTARIO NOVICE A CHAMPION • OFF-ROAD ONTARIO GRAND CHAMPION • WORLD ENDURO CANADA NOVICE A CHAMPION - CXCC EAST

2019 RESULTS: • 2ND OVERALL IN MX BEGINNER WITH 5 PODIUM FINISHES THROUGHOUT THE SEASON.

“Being a part of the Roost Factory family this past season was such a huge help for me and my program. The friendly atmosphere and willingness of the people to help was amazing!

Pair that with the best tires I have ever used and it was an unbelievable combination! I can’t wait for the 2020 season to be able to run the Hoosier tires and working with everyone at the Roost Factory Team! Best group and products in the pro paddock, hands down!”

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“This was an awesome year with new friends and great results; I even won the Corduroy Enduro (but got disqualified for being underage). The Roost Factory team has been an amazing help this year right from day one! They are always hooking me up with the best tires in the game, cooking amazing meals and delivering great hospitality.”

“This year has really shifted up a gear for me, I am very happy to have Roost Factory Hoosier Offroad supporting me this year and moving forward. I couldn’t be happier with how much the Hoosier MX tires have helped me with amazing traction throughout the race season, I can’t wait for next year!”

2019-12-05 2:11 PM

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2019-12-05 2:11 PM

COLTON FACCIOTTI

6-TIME

MOTOCROSS

MX1 450 CHAMPION DYLAN WRIGHT

1ST TIME

MOTOCROSS

MX2 250 CHAMPION

@M A R IN BIKE SCAN ADA

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AVAILABLE AT WWW.ROYAL D ISTRIB UTING.COM

2019-09-03 2:53 PM

RIDE LIKE A CHAMPION! OFFICIAL BICYCLE OF THE ROCKSTAR TRIPLE CROWN SERIES

MOD EL S H OW N : MOUN T V I S I ON 8

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contents u M O T O C R O S S

V O L U M E

1 9

P E R F O R M A N C E

I S S U E

FEATURES

24

24

COVER STORY: TANNER WARD Trending UpWard

30 2019 ROCKSTAR

ENERGY TRIPLE

CROWN SERIES WRAP-UP

Another year

in the books.

38 6TH ANNUAL

GOLDEN ELBOW AWARDS

Palms celebrates the

best performances

of 2019.

46 MXP CHATTER

WITH RYAN DOWD

Andy White

chats with the

talented privateer.

52 ROOST FACTORY

HOOSIER

OFFROAD STORY

A new set of eyes on

an age-old concept.

56

60

56 CATCHING UP

WITH QUINN AMYOTTE

We sit down with

this fast rookie

pro rider.

60 FUTURE WEST ARENACROSS CHAMPIONSHIPS

Chilliwack hosts the

opening round of the

BC indoor series.

62 THE 2020

HOLIDAY BUYER’S GUIDE

Every gift you could

ever want.

80 COLTON FACCIOTTI’S RETIREMENT PARTY

The industry gets

together to honour

our 6-time Champ.

SPECIALS

10 EXPOSED 16 CAUGHT ON CAMERA

38

2020 ULTIMATE

52

GEAR GUIDE

COLUMNS

18

20

22

80

by Chris Pomeroy

With Shelby Turner

by Dylan Wright

by Andy White

FAMOUS LAST WORDS

6

FEMALE PERSPECTIVE

GUEST COLUMN

INSIDE LINE

8 // MOTOCROSS PERFORMANCE · MXPMAG.COM

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R I D E

I N

T H E

C O M P A N Y

O F

L E G E N D S

a NEW MORE POWERFUL ENGINE • NEW STRONGER BRAKES • NEW COIL-SPRING FORK ©2019 Canadian Kawasaki Motors Inc. Always ride responsibly. Always ride within the limits of your skills, your experience and your machine. Wear an approved helmet and protective clothing.

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2019-07-12 11:31 AM

10 // MOTOCROSS PERFORMANCE · MXPMAG.COM

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PHOTO BY JAM E S LISSIMOR E

POWER SLIDING The first turn in Deschambault is not for the faint of heart.

MOTOCROSS PERFORMANCE · MXPMAG.COM // 11

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PHOTO BY JSR M E DIA

GOOD-BYE YELLOW BRICK ROAD It’s time to sit back and enjoy CR22’s final tour.

12 // MOTOCROSS PERFORMANCE · MXPMAG.COM

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MOTOCROSS PERFORMANCE · MXPMAG.COM // 13

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Your bike deserves

THE BEST

Hand your engine over to an expert .

MOTOCROSS PERFORMANCE VOLUME 19, ISSUE 6

FOR SUBSCRIPTION INQUIRIES CALL: 416-633-1202

PUBLISHER: Charles Stancer/Mark Stallybrass V.P. OF SALES AND MARKETING: Charles Stancer EDITOR: Chris Pomeroy SALES MANAGER: Al Jaggard SENIOR WRITERS: Brian Koster, Mike McGill SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR: Blake Breton STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER: James Lissimore CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: James Lissimore, Drew Robertson, Leticia Cline, Andy White, Matt Wellumson, Sean Poitras, Lawrence Hacking, Kate McKerroll CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS: Virgil Knapp, Clayton Racicot, Bill Petro, Matt Wellumson, Frank Hoppen, Summer Denzler, Mike Vizer COVER PHOTO: Dan Stenning MXP has the exclusive rights to the MRC’s mailing list of racing license holders. Every MRC 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 including the FMSQ. FOR ADVERTISING INQUIRIES CONTACT: Charles Stancer 416-633-1202 charles@mxpmag.com mxpmag.com

Parts & accessories

Nika-Tech cylinder replating Crankshaft reconditionning

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 $20.00 Cdn., U.S.A. $40.00 US, 416-633-1202

DESIGN AND PRODUCTION GROUP PUBLISHER & CEO: Tim Rutledge SENIOR ART DIRECTORS: Patrick Beltijar, Patrick Dinglasan, Queue Gonzalez, Edward Shintani PRODUCTION: Richard Robles

MX PERFORMANCE IS PRINTED IN CANADA

ASK YOUR DEALER www.cvtech-aab.com

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550

HELMET ECE 22/05

450 PODIUM

GEAR

550

BOOTS

SEVERAL CHOICES OF COLOURS AVAILABLE.

AVAILABLE AT YOUR LOCAL MOTORCYCLE DEALER

Distributed by :

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CAUGHT ON CAMERA

A PHOTOGRAPHIC JOURNAL FROM RACES AND EVENTS THROUGH OUT THE YEAR.

S Mom, my goggles are fine.

S The queen of BC moto was in Chilliwack cheering on her riders.

S A parent’s job at the races is never done.

S Weege went all the way to NZ to interview Luke Clout.

S Podium decisions are always difficult.

S Dylan is so impressed that he doesn’t know what to do.

S The fans in Montreal wish these legends were still racing.

S One of the best smiles in Canadian motocross.

S It’s going to be great to see Stu go back to his roots in 2020.

S Cade wants everyone to have a very Merry Christmas.

S With fans like this, there’s no doubt Cole is going to bounce back

S Two minutes for not listening! Murph should’ve been a hockey referee.

stronger next year.

16 // MOTOCROSS PERFORMANCE · MXPMAG.COM

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SEE MORE POSSIBILITIES BUILDING ON THE SUCCESS OF OUR CHAMPIONSHIP WINNING VUE GOGGLE, THE MX20 COLLECTION

TAKES MANY OF THOSE MARKET-LEADING TECHNOLOGIES TO THE COMPLETELY REDESIGNED AIRSPACE AND MAIN MODELS, PROVIDING BEST IN CLASS PERFORMANCE FOR SUPERIOR VISION REGARDLESS OF RIDING CONDITION.

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FAMOUS LAST WORDS WITH CHRIS POMEROY

PHOTOS BY JAM E S LISSIMOR E

HAPPY HOLIDAYS I HOPE EVERYONE IS ENJOYING THEIR HOLIDAY SEASON AS IT REALLY IS THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR. OF COURSE, SOON IT WILL BE CHRISTMAS DAY AND THEN A WEEK AFTER THAT WE’LL TURN THE PAGE ON THE CALENDAR TO YET ANOTHER YEAR.

I

can’t believe we’re twenty years into this Century and two decades have passed since we welcomed in the new millennium. I remember towards the end of 1999 the world was afraid of what might happen to all the computers when the new year arrived.

That year I celebrated New Year’s Eve with my parents, and just prior to midnight we were cooking some popcorn in the microwave when it started beeping for no reason. Our first thought was that the microwave was sensing the millennium approaching and it had developed a glitch. As it turned out we had pressed the wrong button and the timer had come to a premature end.

There was no issue with our microwave, and as the ball dropped on the year 2000 all the computers had it figured out and the world was spared an electronic catastrophe. That was also the year that Canadian pro motocross went through a major face-lift with the series expanding and becoming much more global. It was definitely an exciting time to be a rider in the pro series, and like I said, I cannot believe that it’s been twenty years.

Fast forward to now and 2020 is just around the corner. Our National Series has gone through some changes with the names of riders, race venues have of course changed (Calgary, Riverglade

and Walton are the only tracks that remain on the series schedule), and in recent years the group behind the series has changed. In 2000, the series consisted of ten rounds that began in Nanaimo, BC, then went on to Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec and New Brunswick, before returning to Ontario for the grand finale. The class structure was of course a 250 class that was twenty motos long, and then the 125 class was split into an East/West series with a dual coast shootout-type race at the final round at Walton Raceway.

Today, our national series is just as unique and exciting, although it’s made up of a few new riders and tracks. With an indoor and outdoor portion for the riders to deal with, as well as the series taking place over a longer period of time, today’s national rider has to be a little more versatile with their training and preparation. As we get ready to welcome in yet another decade and another season of Canadian motocross, let’s take a moment to celebrate the history of our sport. As the old saying goes, the present defines the future. The future builds on the foundation of the past.

Like everyone, I’m excited to see what 2020 brings for our sport. With the retirement of Colton Facciotti, the 450 class at the Nationals is going to look a little different. If we look back

through the past ten years, Colton was always a championship favourite, and you could always count on him to battle the visiting stars who travelled to Canada to race each year. It didn’t always come up roses for Colton as he had to battle through some very serious injuries, some even season ending.

But every time, he regrouped and came back smarter and stronger than he was before. Each comeback seemed more impressive than the one before. It’s no secret in life, as well as in sport, that as you get older, finding your way back to the top of the mountain becomes harder and harder. Obviously, our bodies age and break down, but more importantly as our brains naturally age, they allow more doubt and negativity to creep into our decision-making process. This is when mental strength becomes even more important than the physical side of things, and this is why our oldest top athletes are without a doubt the most mentally strong. It isn’t always the big decisions that become difficult for an aging athlete, most times they are the small ones that eat away at us and cause us to want to throw in the towel. Obviously, Colton once again did a great job in 2019, putting mind over matter and winning his sixth 450 Outdoor Championship.

With Colton now retired, this opens the door for a number of riders to step up and fill his shoes. Recently it was announced that Dylan Wright is moving up to the 450 class and he talks about it in his Guest Column this month. Phil Nicoletti will be looking to pick up right where he left off this year. Tyler Meda-

AS THE OLD SAYING GOES, THE PRESENT DEFINES THE FUTURE. THE FUTURE BUILDS ON THE FOUNDATION OF THE PAST. glia is moving back to the 450 class so you know he’ll be a factor, as will his teammate Matt Goerke. Then there is Cole Thompson, a rider who had a very difficult second half to his season. Injuries, frustration, and I think a little mental fatigue caught up to last year’s Triple Crown Champion starting from the mid-way point of the season.

However, I would expect him to regroup over the winter and come back better than ever in 2020. It’s going to be an exciting season next year and the opening round can’t come soon enough.

In this final issue of the year we’re featuring the newest Red Rider, Tanner Ward, on the cover. As everyone knows, Tanner has switched over to the GDR Honda Team after spending the past few seasons with the Orange Brigade.

This is fresh start for Tanner, and it will be interesting to see if he can fill some gaps and become a consistent race winner. We are also featuring a cool Andy White interview with Ryan Dowd, as well as a profile on the fast, young Ontario pro rider, Quinn Amyotte. We look back on the 2019 Rockstar Energy Triple Crown Series, and Lawrence Hacking writes about the new Moto Social events that are becoming very popular both here as well as around the world. We hope you’ve enjoyed reading MXP Magazine this past year and we cannot wait to see what’s in store in 2020. Happy Holidays from all of us here and we’ll see you at the races next year!

18 // MOTOCROSS PERFORMANCE · MXPMAG.COM

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FEMALE PERSPECTIVE WITH SHELBY TURNER

“NEXT OFF, I WANTED TO TOUCH ON THE ISDE (INTERNATIONAL SIX DAY OF ENDURO). THIS IS MY FAVOURITE RACE EVER.”

CHECKING BOXES WELL, IT’S BEEN A PRETTY BUSY FEW MONTHS ON THE DIRT BIKE FOR ME TO SAY THE LEAST. I HAVE BEEN DOWN SOUTH OF THE BORDER RACING THE ENDUROCROSS SERIES, TRYING TO GET MYSELF AN AMA NUMBER ONE PLATE. I WAS ALSO TRYING TO PREP AND TRAIN FOR THE ISDE OVER IN PORTUGAL WHERE I WAS REPRESENTING CANADA ALONG WITH EIGHT OTHER FANTASTIC CANADIAN ATHLETES.

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s you all probably know, the endurocross series was almost nonexistent this year. After a shuffle of promoters and losing sponsors, they pulled the plug on the series altogether. I was pretty upset when I found out this had happened, but after a few short months they managed to pick up some of the pieces to get a 3-round series back. I was pretty nervous as to how it was all going to go. They changed some of the rules and restructured the classes, but I was really surprised how things came together. The tracks were

probably the best I have ridden in years.

They were not as technical as they have been in the past but a lot more amateur-friendly that still offered the same amount of carnage that we all love.

What they lost in technical obstacles they gained in the number of racers out on the track at one time. There were 16 racers going head to head over these sketchy obstacles, and it made for some awesome spectating. I even managed to win an Intermediate race (they called this the amateur class in the past). To be honest, I never expected to win this class. I have been racing it for a few years now and the best I finished was 3rd. This

class is extremely fast as it is the feeder for the pros; it’s always a good day just to qualify into the night show. The coolest part is I am now the first female to ever win this class. I am not even sure I can do it again if I am being completely honest. I also won all three rounds of the women’s class to bring back the AMA endurocross title. We had some good riders come back from retirement and compete this year. We saw Rachel Guitsh, Maria Forsberg, and Louis Forsley line up at all the rounds. The girls made me work for it, but I had a lot of fun out there all year with these ladies and I can’t wait to do it again next year, hopefully with a few more rounds.

Next off, I wanted to touch on the ISDE (International Six Day of Enduro). This is my favourite race ever. It’s the most mentally and physically challenging race out there, not to mention it’s a world class event where all the best off-road racers around the world compete against each other both individually and as a team. This year I represented Canada with two of my good friends Melissa Harten and Jannie Dupuis. The ISDE was located just off the coast of Portomao on the very south end of Portugal. It was very rocky terrain with big hill climbs and a good mixture off sand and clay sections. I think it rained almost every day we were there, which made the trails a little slippery. All things considering the trails held up way better than I expected after having that many motorcycles ride

over it. Day 1 & 2 we had lots of fast trails and tests. We got closer to the coastline on these days and had more sand than rocks. Overall it was quite easy; we just rode a lot of miles and had very little times at the checks. Days 3 & 4 were very technical. It rained all day, and we went high up the mountains in the single-track rocks and hills. The days were long and grueling, trying to navigate slippery terrain and all the rocks. Day 5 we rode part of Day 3 course backwards, and then had an easy road with gravel sections and all new tests. This was a very welcomed, easy day to say the least, and then Day 6 was the final MX test. All in all, it worked out to being about 1500 km of riding and 35 hours on the motorcycle. That’s crazy for just 6 days of riding. Team Canada did great this year. We had both the Junior and Women’s trophy team getting 7th OA and the club team getting 9th with an awesome c1 class win by Tyler Medaglia.

This guy was on FIRE out there; I wish I could have watched him do some of the tests. He gave me pointers at check sections, and I think that really helped me lock down some faster times out there.

Individually, I had the ride of my life. I was very happy with my speed comparatively to past years. It’s hard to see but I really improved over the last two years since France, and that was a huge step in the right direction. I finished 7th OA individually with a Gold medal. Considering that this year we had the best girls from around the world show up, this is a fantastic finish. I also managed to grab a 3rd overall on one of the tests. This has been a long-time goal of mine, and after five years of trying I finally managed to do it. I also must give a shout out to my teammates. Melissa absolutely crushed it this year. She managed to stay on time all week long and put in consistent test times. She made a huge improvement and earned herself a silver medal this year. Congrats girl! And then I must give a standing ovation to Jannie. A bike failure Day 2 made for a sad DNF, but she got it fixed and restarted with hopes to finish. Unfortunately, on Day 4 her ISDE ended with a broken arm. She was a true fighter all week long, and I know she will be back to redeem herself. It was amazing to watch her keep her head up and keep pushing through. It’s not an easy race, and she was totally determined to cross that finish line.

I want to thank all my family and friends for their support this year, as well as all of my sponsors. I wouldn’t be able to do this if it wasn’t for them. A&E Racing, KTM, FXR, Blud Lubricants, SRT, Kenda Tire, 6D Helmets, XC Gear, Canalta Hotels, FMF, Ryno Power, Tire Balls, CTi Knee Braces, M7 Designs, Mika Metals, DT1 Filters, SXS Slideplates, WP Suspension, DA8 Training, Elks of Canada, Laminicorr Racing, and of course my Mom and Dad.

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PHIL NICOLETTI TRIPLE CROWN SERIES CHAMPION 450 PRO SX TOUR CHAMPION ROCKSTAR/OTSFF/YAMAHA

HELIUM C O L L E C T I O N

Premium Ultra-Lightweight Performance.

Polyester-Spandex mesh for maximum breathability.

Slim fit with shaped front collar & tapered cuff.

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GUEST COLUMN WITH DYLAN WRIGHT

20/20 VISION PHOTOS BY JAM E S LI SSI MOR E

WELL, WHAT CAN I SAY, MY OFF-SEASON FOLLOWING THE LAST ROUND OF THE TRIPLE CROWN SERIES IN HAMILTON HASN’T BEEN MUCH OF AN OFF-SEASON FOR ME OR OUR TEAM. THERE HAS BEEN A LOT GOING ON BEHIND THE SCENES. AFTER FINISHING THE LAST ROUND OF SUPERCROSS WITH A VICTORY, IT JUST MOTIVATED ME EVEN MORE FOR WHAT WAS TO COME NEXT YEAR. THERE WERE A COUPLE OF BIG THINGS IN THE WORKS EVEN BEFORE THE FINAL CHECKERED FLAG WAS WAVED IN HAMILTON.

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he first and biggest conversation revolved around my plans for 2020. With Colton retiring from the sport, I was given two options to consider: stay down and defend my title in the 250 class or move up to the 450 class and battle with the big boys. I really must thank Team Honda Canada GDR Fox Racing for leaving this decision completely up to me. While I was grateful for this opportunity, I also found that this decision weighed heavily on my shoulders.

It was a really challenging decision to make, because there was so much to think about.

This whole situation seemed to lead to more questions, rather than to one answer. What would be the best choice for my career moving forward? Which option would allow me to progress most as an athlete and as a racer?

What would make the most sense for me financially? What would be best for me mentally? What would be best for the team? What would be best for the sport? I would have to make the leap to the big bike class eventually, but is this the best time to do it?

The options and considerations rattled in my brain for weeks. In order to make an informed decision, I consulted many people whom, I believed, would have my best interests at heart.

After many discussions with the team, Colton, friends, family and industry people (you know who you are), I finally made my decision. I will be making the jump up to the 450 class for 2020!

So many people have been patiently waiting for this announcement. The team and I decided to keep it hushhush until we were able to announce it to everyone within our program first. As a result, the first official announcement

was actually made to employees assembled at the Honda Canada headquarters where they had graciously planned a championship get-together to celebrate both championships - a significant achievement and source of pride for them as a manufacturer. It was a super cool opportunity to share our news with the individuals behind the amazing brand that supports me and my team, and who had provided us with the tools to win two Canadian championships.

With that decision made, I know that I have A LOT of work to do to prepare for next year. The team is putting a lot of faith in me during what is considered to be another building year for the team.

Riding on the wave of success of 2019, everyone on the team wants to crush it and go out there and win next year.

While I did take some time to celebrate what proved to be an epic year of racing, honestly, the down time proved to be short-lived. We immediately turned our focus to 2020. I hopped on a 450 and started putting in some riding time on the bike. We seized the opportunity to do some testing. Truth be known … I have fallen in love with the big bike. I really believe it suits my physical build and my riding style better than the 250. For some reason, I don’t feel like I have to work nearly as hard to make the bike do what I need it to do. The result: I think I’m actually smoother on the track. I find that I don’t have to push the limit nearly as much as you’ve witnessed me do on the little bike. There is more power than I will ever need with the 450. That, in itself, is a huge difference. The move up to the bigger bike also means that my diet and training routines off the bike are going to change. I’m happy to report that I have already been working with my trainer Rob Mouland who is committed to helping me achieve the goals we have set for next year. So, I want to extend a big thanks to him for his support, expertise, advice and friendship.

I suspect that many of you are also aware of my other big news: I am headed to Geneva, Switzerland to race the Monster Energy Supercross race over there. Actually, this has been in the works for quite some time. In fact, it all began at the Montreal supercross race.

I had somewhat jokingly approached Mr. Éric Peronnard about the possibility of racing in Geneva. Considering that he had only met me during the press

“WHILE I DID TAKE SOME TIME TO CELEBRATE WHAT PROVED TO BE AN EPIC YEAR OF RACING, HONESTLY, THE DOWN TIME PROVED TO BE SHORT-LIVED. WE IMMEDIATELY TURNED OUR FOCUS TO 2020.” conference and that this conversation was taking place before the races, he politely responded, “Let’s see how the racing goes tonight.” It proved to be a great night for me, but our paths didn’t cross again that night. I didn’t think too much would come of it. A couple of weeks went by without a peep, that is until I was contacted by my good buddy Jay Moore from Fox Canada. He informed me that Mr. Peronnard had talked to him about it and that I might be getting a deal to head overseas to race. I was pretty dang excited! I have never been to Europe and I have heard so many great things about their love of the sport there. This will be a great opportunity to travel to a new destination and line up against other accomplished racers from that part of the world. I can’t wait to be there for the races on December 6th and 7th. I’m grateful to Honda Switzerland for providing me with a bike. I will be taking some of my own parts (e.g. suspension) with me to make the bike feel like the one I was practicing on at home as much as possible.

Hopefully I can make a good impression and get some good finishes so that I might be invited to participate in more events like this one in the future.

Whether I’m looking ahead to next month or to next year, most of my time has been devoted to preparation. What does the winter hold for me upon my return from Geneva? You’ll have to wait and see as I’m still working out the final details for those plans. One thing is for sure, I’m looking forward to getting out of the cold in January and heading down to catch some sun and get some good riding in.

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PHIL NICOLETTI TRIPLE CROWN SERIES CHAMPION 450 PRO SX TOUR CHAMPION ROCKSTAR/OTSFF/YAMAHA

R AC E D I V I S I O N P E R F O R M A N C E

D R I V E N

Designed for those who are relentless in their pursuit of greatness. Those who work tirelessly, who overcome adversity and who stand out. Passion for racing becomes a lifestyle, this has inspired the FXR Race Division apparel. Get yours now at www.fxrracing.com or visit a dealer near you.

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TANNER WA RD

T R E NDING

UPWARD

BY M I K E M CG I L L / P H OTOS BY DA N S TE N N I N G A N D JA M E S LI S S I M O R E

“PERHAPS IT WAS HIS WILLINGNESS TO PUT HIMSELF OUT OF HIS COMFORT ZONE AND COMPETE AGAINST THE BEST AT THE PRO LEVEL RATHER THAN STAY IN THE AMATEUR CLASS FOR ONE MORE YEAR THAT DID THE TRICK.” MOTOCROSS PERFORMANCE · MXPMAG.COM // 25

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T

he last time I spoke with Tanner Ward for an article in MXP Magazine was back in the Summer of 2017. Tanner was a KTM sponsored amateur rider then and was preparing, along with Austin Watling and Marco Canella, for the jump to the Pro class the following season. That article on “The Three Amigos” appeared in the Fall issue of MXP. Since that time a lot has happened in the career and life of Tanner Ward. He’s got two full seasons of Pro Racing under his belt now and just recently signed with the powerhouse GDR Honda Canada Racing Team for the next two seasons. It hasn’t all been smooth sailing for Tanner though.

Here is his story.

These past few weeks have been a pretty exciting time for Tanner Ward. The 20-year-old Woodstock, Ontario native recently wrapped up his racing season for the KTM Red Bull Thor Factory Racing Team and promptly signed a new two-year deal with the Honda Canada GDR Fox Racing Team. Before we get into the details of the new deal, let’s backtrack a little.

When I spoke to Tanner in 2017, he brought me up to speed on his career to date. Like most professional motocross racers, he started riding when he was very young.

His dad put him on his first PW50 at the tender age of two-and-a-half, first just cruising around the field by his home, but it wasn’t long before he started going to the races and competing. “I actually had my first

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TANNER WAR D

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UPWARD race when I was three,” he recalls. “It was a TVR (Thames Valley Riders) race at a track near Granton, Ontario.

It’s not there anymore and I don’t really remember much about it. I was three,” he chuckles.

Tanner also told me back in 2017 that he was going in a different direction with his racing that season. It was to be his final year as an amateur, but instead of hitting the big amateur races in the States, like Loretta Lynn’s and the Mini-O’s, he decided he was going to stick a little closer to home and try a few Canadian Pro Nationals as an Amateur rider. “I decided rather than do the American Amateur Nationals thing that season I would ride Pro Am in the East Coast portion of the CMRC Nationals in the MX2 class. That turned out to be a good decision for me as I had some good results and I think I made an impression on some people,” remembers Ward.

That may have been a bit of an understatement as the Deschambault National turned out to be a dream day for the youngster when he went 2-2 and finished 2nd overall. “That’s still my best finish in the Pro Class,” chuckles Ward.

Perhaps it was his willingness to put himself out of his comfort zone and compete against the best at the Pro level rather than stay in the Amateur class for one more year that did the trick, but whatever it was, Ward was signed as the KTM Canada 250 rider for the following season. He was the only 250 rider under the factory tent for 2018, and moving to the Pro ranks for his first full season was a big adjustment for Ward. “It was definitely a big jump,” he recalls. “With the new Triple Crown format there was just a whole lot more racing than what I was used to.” While some of his competitors chose to skip portions of the Triple Crown, Ward managed to run the entire series consisting of Arenacross, Motocross and Supercross. “I was caught off guard a little bit by the level of competition at first, especially when I was out west for the Arenacross, but I learned a lot.”

While not considered to be spectacular, his results were decent right off the bat. “I finished 2nd at the very first race in Abbottsford, and then scored some 5th and 6th place finishes. Not too bad, the team was

happy.” Once the series moved outdoors the real competition began to heat up and Ward acquitted himself quite well in his rookie campaign, with his 3rd overall at his home track of Gopher Dunes and a 4th overall at Deschambault being the highlights.

Ward’s “long” first season continued after the outdoors with some solid results in Supercross; his best being a 4th overall at the Olympic Stadium in Montreal.

Ward likes to emphasize the fact that the team didn’t put any pressure on him to get podiums in his first season. “They were great,” explains Ward. “JSR (Team Manager JeanSebastien Roy) and my mechanic Matt DeRoy were very patient with me and I certainly appreciated that.”

While Ward didn’t experience any undue pressure from his team, any professional athlete knows that the reason they are in that position is to perform and produce results, and Tanner Ward is no different. “I was ready to take it to the next level in 2019,” remarks Ward. “I was confident and ready to go.”

Ward made the decision to dedicate himself to his off-bike training and signed on to work with trainer Brad Clifford from Migration Unlimited Training Academy out of Calgary. Clifford has worked with several other top Canadian Pros in the past such as Shawn Maffenbeier and currently with Tyler Medaglia.

“My pre-season was awesome,” says Ward. “We went to Florida and rode a bunch of different tracks. I had the opportunity to ride at Ricky Carmichael’s place, The GOAT Farm.

That was cool, and Ricky stopped by

to say hello.” Tanner also go to spend some time riding with another legend of the sport, Justin Barcia, who Ward claims was “very welcoming” to he and his friends.

While Tanner’s optimism for the upcoming 2019 season was high, one major change took place at Team KTM in the off-season, which was the signing of defending MX2 Champion Jess Pettis to the team. Pettis dominated the MX2 class in 2018 for the MX101 FXR Yamaha Team and instantly became the number one MX2 rider on the team upon his signing, a fact that Ward was forced to immediately accept. “Oh, for sure,” agrees Ward. “I definitely took a bit of a back seat to him.” While Ward is quick to agree that he was no longer the top MX2 rider on the team, he was equally as quick to heap praise on his new teammate. “He’s just an awesome dude. I learned a lot from him,” explains Ward. “We would help each other out when we could, and we got along very well. We still do.”

Ward goes on to explain that even though Pettis was battling injuries through much of the season, he always kept a positive attitude. “He was really helpful for me in that respect,” states Ward. “Sometimes I would get frustrated, and he was always there with a good word. Very level-headed as well.”

Coming into the 2019 season, the KTM Red Bull Thor Factory Racing Team seemed to be primed for a dominating season; possibly even a one-two overall finish in the MX2 class with Pettis and Ward. As is often the case in sport however, things didn’t really work out that

“BOTH TEAMS ARE AWESOME, BUT I JUST LOVE THE COMMITMENT TO TESTING AND THE POSITIVE, WINNING ATTITUDE THAT I FELT WHEN TALKING TO GDR.” MOTOCROSS PERFORMANCE · MXPMAG.COM // 27

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UPWARD way as Pettis was injured in US Supercross before the season even started, an injury that would hamper him throughout the campaign, and Ward never seemed to find the podium speed that many felt, and still feel, he possesses.

In his own defense, Ward points out the fact that the level of talent in the MX2 class seems to get deeper every year. He certainly has a point considering former National Champion Tyler Medaglia dropped back down to the MX2 class last season and was joined there by fast young Americans Luke Rezland, and Marshal Weltin, as well as a maturing Dylan Wright. While the class may have been deeper than ever, Ward remains positive about his results this year. “There may have been no podiums, but I feel I was even more consistent this year. I would get 4th then 5th then 4th again. The gap between 3rd to 5th was so small, so tight that it could have gone either way.”

Ward finished the outdoor season, which is really the cornerstone of Canadian motocross, 5th overall in points, and while his consistency was commendable this past season, the lack of podiums had to frustrate Tanner as he looked poised to be a National Championship threat at the beginning of the year. Sometimes the things that happen in one’s personal life far outweigh anything else, and the fact that Ward was even able to compete at a high level at all this season is a real testament to his character. Tanner tragically lost his brother in the summer of 2018. Jeff Ward took his life on July 2nd, which has obviously weighed heavily on Tanner for the last fifteen months.

Perhaps it was the loss of his brother and a feeling that he wanted to stay closer to home, coupled with the lack of results, that got him thinking by the end of this past summer that maybe he needed a change.

“I guess it was late summer in August when I started talking to Digger (Team GDR Manager Derek Schuster) about making the move.” Ward is quick to make it clear that he wasn’t being released by KTM. While his two-year deal there was up, “They wanted me back,” says Ward. “They made me an offer.” Leaving KTM and

signing with GDR Honda was “the hardest decision I’ve ever made,” states Ward. But when he weighed out the pros and cons it became clear to him that he needed to make the move. “I’ve been hanging out at the Dunes basically my whole life, and I get along well with Derek,” explains Ward. “It’s close to home and they are just super-passionate about the sport. Hey, they’ve got both number 1 plates so, it would be pretty hard to say no.” Ward goes on to elaborate on the reasons for his decision. “I knew that Pettis was staying at KTM and staying in the 250 class so I would be the number two guy again. Both teams are awesome, but I just love the commitment to testing and the positive, winning attitude that I felt when talking to GDR.” Schuster, for his part, couldn’t be more pleased with the signing.

“I knew back in the summer that Dylan (Wright) would be moving up to the 450 for 2020 so I needed a top 250 guy. I met a couple of times with Tanner, once in August after Deschambault and again in September.

Once his contract situation got sorted out, we brought him on board.”

So, what does Schuster expect from his new rider for the 2020 season?

“Well, he’s got some work to do,” claims Schuster. “Just like everyone he needs to work on his riding and technique, but I liken his situation to Dylan Wright’s. It takes time, it takes experience. It’s very rare to win championships right away. First you need to start getting consistent podiums and then start thinking about championships.” Will there be a lot of pressure placed on Tanner to get those podiums, I ask Schuster? “Just the right amount,” he chuckles. Schuster goes on to add that during his tenure he’s never seen a rider perform so well with so much pressure being placed upon him as Colton Facciotti, and we all know how that turned out. “Colt will be working closely with Tanner this season, that’s really going to help.”

For his part, Ward is chomping at the bit to get going with the new team. “Right now, everything is winding down a bit. I’m just relaxing a bit, doing some snow removal, but come January 1 we will be hitting the re-set button and getting after it.”

When asked about the possibility of any out of season races, Ward admits that if everything goes well and he’s “feeling it” during the early preseason he’s hoping to be able to ride the iconic Daytona Supercross. “But that’s up in the air right now. I have to talk to the team about it. It’s risky” One thing that Ward will certainly be working on during his brief offseason is the charity venture that he has undertaken since the passing of his brother. Ward kicked off his Ride With Me Initiative for Mental Health Awareness last season at the Walton Trans Can. Fifty cyclists, a group that included many of the top names in Canadian motocross, gathered for a bike ride that started at the track and headed out on a 15km trek to the Cowbell Brewery in Blyth, Ontario. After a lunch and a short yet inspirational talk from Tanner, the group headed back to Walton. My wife and I both had the pleasure of participating and it was a great afternoon. The event raised over $7,000 for the Canadian Mental Health Association and the Tanner Steffler Foundation. Tanner Steffler

was a 19-year-old Walton area boy who spent many hours at the track working as a flagger and helping in various ways. On June 6, 2017, after a battle with substance use disorder, he was sadly poisoned by a drug overdose and passed away. “It takes a lot of time to organize the event, but I will definitely be doing it again next year,” states Tanner. “It’s very important to me.”

You can’t help but be impressed with Tanner Ward. At the young age of 20 he has shown a maturity beyond his years. This was extremely evident in the classy and heartfelt exit post that he put up on his Instagram account thanking everyone at KTM for the previous five years of support. He’s already been through an awful lot. He’s experienced some extreme highs and lows, and has come through it with a great, positive attitude and a desire to succeed in his chosen profession of racing a dirt bike. So, look out for the number 18 Honda this summer. It’s not his permanent number yet, but I have a feeling it will be. The progression of Tanner Ward continues. Stay tuned.

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2019-09-19 11:26 AM

A SEASON IN REVIEW:

2019 ROCKSTAR ENERGY TRIPLE CROWN SERIES RECAP B Y C H R I S P O M E R OY / P H O T O S B Y J A M E S L I S S I M O R E

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When we look back at all the exciting moments from the 2019 Rockstar Energy Triple Crown Series, it will certainly go down as one of the most memorable seasons in Canadian motocross. Not only did we see Colton Facciotti win his record sixth outdoor 450 Canadian Championship, but we also saw Dylan Wright, Luke Renzland and Phil Nicoletti win their first ever Canadian pro titles.

From the opening round of the AXTour in the spring, to the final round of the SXTour in late October, the riders and teams battled hard and put on quite a show for everyone watching.

A

Even though his doctor told him not to race the opening round in Calgary, Jess Pettis showed up anyway and grabbed the first holeshot of the summer.

fter some very wet soil hampered the success of the opening round in 2018, the Jetwerx crew was able to get everything sorted, out and the 2019 Abbotsford AX provided some incredible racing. With this being the opening round of the Triple Crown, the riders were very exciting for the gate to drop inside the Abbotsford Event Centre. With this being year two of beginning the National pro series in the early spring, the riders and teams were a little more prepared with everything they needed to be successful. Throughout the opening evening in Abbotsford, the racing was tight and each rider on the track showed their readiness to compete. When the checkered flag was waved it was unknown Ryder Floyd who took the win in the 250 class, while defending Triple Crown Champion Cole Thompson dominated the 450 class. Strangely enough, the two riders, who would later be crowned our new 2019 Triple Crown Champions, Dylan Wright and Phil Nicoletti, both had an awful opening round finishing well back of the leaders. Two riders who were absent in not just Abbotsford but also the remaining AXTour rounds were last year’s outdoor champions Jess Pettis and Colton Facciotti. Pettis was still recovering from an off-season injury while Facciotti was busy preparing for the final outdoor national series of his long and successful career. After four rounds that stretched from Abbotsford, BC to Barrie, ON, Dylan Wright won the 250 AXTour Championship, his first ever title as a professional. In the 450 class it was once again Cole Thompson who continued his dominance by winning yet another indoor title. It was a very entertaining series and a great precursor to what was to come in the MXTour.

Over the years we’ve seen our National Series begin at such tracks as Ste-Julie, QC, Kamloops and Nanaimo, BC, and for the past few years at the urban Wild Rose MX Park in Calgary, AB. For those of you who have never been to the track in Calgary, let us say that its location is the envy of every major outdoor series on the planet.

With the host hotel a mere 10-minute walk away, and the sky line of downtown Calgary a few miles to the North, this track is the perfect spot to begin the MXTour portion of the Rockstar Energy Triple Crown Series.

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2019 ROCKSTAR ENERGY TRIPLE CROWN SERIES RECAP

Dylan Wright came out swinging in 2019, winning the AXTour and the opening moto in Calgary.

Coming into the 2019 MXTour Series everyone was excited to see if Pettis and Facciotti could repeat as outdoor champions. Pettis was coming into the opening round still in healing mode and not sure if he should even race in Calgary. With his doctors pleading with him to take more time off to heal his broken arm, Pettis thought that if he could just limp through the first few motos then it would set him up well for the second half of the 250 series. In the end, his gamble paid off. Not only did Pettis make it through those early rounds, but his win at Round 2 in front of his friends and family was the highlight of his season. Actually, looking back, it was only a bad mud race at Round 3 in Manitoba and a very fast Dylan Wright that kept Pettis from carrying the red plate into the eastern half of the series. When the MXTour series wrapped up at Walton Raceway, Pettis was a distant second to Wright and was forced to hand over the #1 plate to his rival from the red team. It was a bitter pill to swallow for Pettis and his KTM Canada Team. With such a strong start to the 2019 season in the Monster Energy Supercross Series, it was hard to believe that he would end the season with only one overall win, that coming at Round 7 in Deschambault, QC. To make matters even worse, Pettis suffered a serious knee injury at the Montreal SX in September, an injury that required surgery and will likely keep him off the bike until March. Yes, sometimes this sport can give you the greatest highs but unfortunately some unexpected lows. However, we know that Jess Pettis will never give up and will back stronger than ever in 2020.

For Colton Facciotti, he, unlike Pettis, came into the opening round in Calgary mentally fresh, healthy and ready to go. Considering that he was entering his 18th season as a professional rider, this was definitely not Colton’s first time lining up behind a starting gate.

However, like any rider who hadn’t race in six months, Colton was admittedly a little nervous as he and his fellow 450 competitors staged for Moto 1. But like he’d done so many times before, Colton ignored the uncertainty and won the opening moto of the 450 series. From there, he remained remarkably consistent throughout the remaining races, finishing no worse than 4th overall in the eight-round series. During that

“COMING INTO THE 2019 MXTOUR SERIES EVERYONE WAS EXCITED TO SEE IF PETTIS AND FACCIOTTI COULD REPEAT AS OUTDOOR CHAMPIONS.”

Colton Facciotti was all smiles as he entered his final summer of racing.

Winning a moto in front of his friends and family was the highlight of the 2019 season for Pettis.

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The most famous shot in Canadian motocross.

Although Mike Alessi had a slow start to the MXTour series, he sure came on strong in the east.

Josh Osby took the red plate into Round 2 in Prince George.

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After a cool three rounds in the west, the riders headed east into the sand and humidity.

The heat and humidity at SDL definitely took its toll on our top riders.

“HAVING GAINED MOMENTUM THROUGH THE LATER ROUNDS OF THE MXTOUR SERIES, PHIL NICOLETTI CAME INTO MONTREAL FEELING VERY CONFIDENT AND RIDING PERHAPS BETTER THAN HE EVER HAD.” stretch, Colton fought off charges from his teammate Mike Alessi, his old nemesis Cole Thompson, and the new kid on the block, Phil Nicoletti. When the series concluded at Walton Raceway, Facciotti took home his sixth 450 outdoor title, and then just like that, as the sun set after the final round at Walton Raceway, it also did so on one of the most successful careers we have ever seen in this sport. Colton’s success on the track is only equalled by the class he’s demonstrated off the track. Over the span of his six titles, he’s come back from multiple injuries, he’s become a husband and a father, all while pursuing the ultimate glory of repeating as a champion. It will be very interesting to see what is next for Colton and his family as they transition to the next chapter of their lives.

With the MXTour Series over and the GDR Honda Team having one of the best summers a team could ask for, the Triple Crown Series began its final leg in Montreal as the opening round of the SXTour took place inside Olympic Stadium. Although the face of this event has changed over the years, it’s still very cool to travel to this city to be part of something as historic as the Montreal SX. On this night it was visiting Husqvarna Factory rider Dean Wilson who took the overall victory in the 450 class over Malcom Stewart and Phil Nicoletti. It was great to see Dean back on the top step of the podium as he’s had to battle through so many injuries lately. Dean looked very comfortable on the Montreal track, and the Montreal fans seemed to really embrace his hard charging style. The good thing for our Triple Crown stars was

After moving back down the 250 class this year, Tyler Medaglia had a great time battling the kids.

It was fun to watch Matt Goerke dominate the mud race in Manitoba.

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FIVE MINUTES WITH JETWERX COO KYLE THOMPSON: WELL, HERE WE ARE AT THE CONCLUSION OF YEAR TWO OF THE ROCKSTAR ENERGY TRIPLE CROWN SERIES AND WE HAVE TWO NEW OVERALL SERIES CHAMPIONS AND LOTS TO BE EXCITED ABOUT. OVERALL, ARE YOU HAPPY WITH HOW THINGS WENT IN 2019?

Another great year filled with awesome racing.

We are happy with how it turned out, bringing Live TV to Canadian Moto was a first and we are pumped for that, as well as Fox Sports loved the coverage and signed us up for another year of Triple Crown Live on TV. Still lots to learn, but much like anything it will only get better with time.

FROM THE OUTSIDE, THINGS APPEAR TO BE RUNNING QUITE SMOOTHLY BOTH FROM A SERIES POINT OF VIEW AS WELL AS EACH INDIVIDUAL RACE. THE RACE DAY SCHEDULE IS TIGHT AND MOVES FAST FOR LIVE TELEVISION. ARE YOU HAPPY WITH HOW EVERYTHING IS WORKING OUT?

I couldn’t be happier with how the whole Jetwerx / MRC crew handled the new schedule, alongside the track owners who managed to keep the tracks in tip-top shape with minimal track breaks. We hit our 3-hour window for Live TV at every round, and the Two Wheel TV app got better and better as we moved along.

WE DON’T WANT TO PUT YOU ON THE SPOT BUT WHAT WAS THE BEST RACE YOU WITNESSED THIS YEAR?

WHAT ARE A FEW THINGS THAT YOU GUYS AS AN ORGANIZATION WOULD LIKE TO CHANGE FOR 2020?

WE GOT TO SEE A LOT OF PARITY THIS PAST SEASON AS THERE WERE MULTIPLE SERIES WINNERS. HOW WAS THE FAN RESPONSE THROUGH YOUR CHANNELS?

RECENTLY, IT WAS ANNOUNCED THAT THE MONTREAL SUPERCROSS WILL NOT RUN IN 2020. WE KNOW THAT IS NOT YOUR EVENT BUT GIVEN THE LARGE STAGE OF OLYMPIC STADIUM IT WAS AN IMPORTANT EVENT TO THE TRIPLE CROWN SERIES. DID THIS CANCELLATION COME AS A SURPRISE AND HOW WILL THE SXTOUR SERIES LOOK WITHOUT THE MONTREAL SX?

Oh wow, that’s a tough call. I would have to say the 450 motos from Deschambault stand out.

Those top guys really put on a show and were super close in speed.

We have seen our numbers rise big time throughout the series. We doubled our social numbers from 2018, and TV / Live streams went way up…. So, I think that’s a good sign for the future of Canadian MX

2020 Triple Crown Schedule

One change is we are able to secure Live TV for Sunday during the Summer, so Nationals will be back on Sunday moving forward. I think that will be beneficial for all industry folks trying to make it out to a national.

I don’t know if it was a huge surprise, that’s a huge undertaking in this Canadian Market, and until we build the sport back up to where it was in the early 2000s, the budget just isn’t there to sustain the bills that come from that type of

AXTour

04/25 - Sarnia, ON 05/02 - Barrie, ON 05/15 - Calgary, AB 05/16 - Calgary, AB

venue. We are working on plans to fill the void, so we might have to take on another National in the meantime.

WITH THIS SERIES RUNNING FROM APRIL TO OCTOBER, THAT IS A LOT OF WEEKS OF BEING ON THE ROAD. DURING THIS TIME OF YEAR WHAT DO YOU AND THE JETWERX CREW DO TO UNWIND AND RECHARGE?

We actually don’t have much time to unwind, it’s busy lining things up for 2020 with new partners, a new schedule, and just tying up any loose ends from 2019.

SPEAKING OF THE JETWERX CREW, YOU GUYS HAVE A GREAT GROUP THAT TRAVEL TO EACH EVENT. AS WE LOOK AHEAD TO NEXT YEAR, WHO WOULD YOU LIKE TO THANK FOR THEIR EFFORTS IN 2019?

Honestly, we’d like to thank all our staff, without their commitment to the sport and the Jetwerx Crew we wouldn’t have any success.

I’d like to thank all the tracks and venues for their work and pulling off these events, and all the volunteers out there that made these great events work. Lastly, all the partners of the series that keep Canadian Moto strong and pushing forward.

THANKS FOR DOING THIS AND HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO EVERYONE INVOLVED IN THE TRIPLE CROWN SERIES!

Thanks for checking in with us, and thank you for having an awesome platform for this great sport.

MXTour

05/31 - Wild Rose MX - AB 06/07 - Blackwater MX - BC 06/14 - Dorva MX - AB 06/21 - Motovalley MX - SK 07/12 - Gopher Dunes - ON 07/19 - Sand Del Lee MX - ON 07/26 - Riverglade MX - NB 08/02 - Deschambault MX - QC 08/16 - Walton Raceway - on

SXTour

10/03 - Quebec City, QC 10/17 - Hamilton, ON

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2019 ROCKSTAR ENERGY TRIPLE CROWN SERIES RECAP

Sam Gaynor holeshots the opening moto at Round 5 in Sand Del Lee. After 18 seasons and six titles, Colton Facciotti gets a hug from his son moments after his final moto.

that Dean was an invited guest, so his win didn’t affect their chase for the 2019 championship.

Having gained momentum through the later rounds of the MXTour Series, Phil Nicoletti came into Montreal feeling very confident and riding perhaps better than he ever had. At the opening round in Montreal Phil ran with the leaders from the USA and almost won a main event. At Round 2 in Quebec City, Phil led almost every lap until Cole Thompson made an aggressive pass on the final lap for the win. After the race, Phil remained calm and focused, showing us that he most definitely learned from his Sand Del Lee mistake earlier in the year. Heading into the final SXTour round in Hamilton, all Phil and the 250 class Triple Crown points leader, Dylan Wright, had to do was ride safely and stay out of trouble. That is exactly what both riders did, and at the end of the night they were crowned 2019 Rockstar Energy Triple Crown Champions. For Phil, his $100,000 grand prize was well earned as he’d worked extremely hard all season long. The 250 Triple Crown Champion, Dylan Wright, he was unable to win the SXTour title as MX101 FXR Yamaha’s Luke Renzland took home the honours in that class. When you look at the 2019 Triple Crown Series Championship, as well as the individual Tour Championships, we had five different winners and three OEMs represented. With such a competitive season behind us, it begs the question, will we see the same close racing in 2020?

Now that we’re getting ready to close out 2019, then welcome in a new year, what will the Rockstar Energy Triple Crown Series look like in 2020? At this time, we only know what the schedule will be as well as the fact that for the first time in almost two decades we won’t have Colton Facciotti on the starting line. With Colton retiring and his teammate Dylan Wright moving up to the 450 class, it not only will give the big bike class a new look, but it also leaves the 250 class wide open for a new champion to step up. We now begin the long, cold winter in Canada. Next up is our cherished holiday season, then the new year, and then our riders and teams will begin their preparation for the 2020 Triple Crown Series. Even though it seems like a long way away, we cannot wait for the gate to drop on next season and the 2020 AXTour to begin.

At the opening round of the SXTour in Montreal, Dean Wilson took his first ever 450 SX victory.

Cade Clason had a great 2019 season and ended up finishing third overall in the 450 Triple Crown Series.

Moments after the final main event of the year, the SXTour Champions went head-to-head.

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When you look back at this past year in Canadian motocross there are many great stories and many great performances. In both the amateur and pro classes, we all witnessed riders push their limit on the racetrack while battling for moto wins and championships. As I’ve done for the past five seasons, this is the time of year that I sit down to compose my annual Golden Elbow Awards that celebrate the memorable moments from the past year. Whether it was Dylan Wright’s title runs in the 250 AXTour and MXTour Series or Phil Nicoletti’s Triple Crown Championship, there were multiple moments that will leave people talking for years to come. For this year’s Golden Elbow Awards, let’s now look at the winners of the 10 categories.

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Rider of the Year

PHIL NICOLETTI Picking a winner in this category definitely wasn’t easy as more than one rider enjoyed success in 2019. Dylan

Wright, for instance, won two individual series titles as well as the 250 Triple Crown Championship. His teammate, Colton Facciotti, took home his 6th 450 MXTour Championship this past summer, putting him one ahead of JSR in the record books. However, I picked Phil Nicoletti for the Rider of the Year as he not only won the 450 Triple Crown Series title but also remained incredibly consistent all season long. This was Nicoletti’s first season competing on Canadian soil, so everything was brand new to him. But despite his unfamiliarity with our series, Phil remained focused and determined from the start of the season until the final round in Hamilton. In a recent interview, Phil stated that his best moto of 2019 was the final moto at Round 8 of the MXTour at Walton Raceway, a race in which he came from behind to win, passing all of the top 450 riders in the process. With a year under his belt, Nicoletti will be even better next year as he defends his 2019 Triple Crown Championship, as well as his Golden Elbow Rider of the Year Award.

Team of the Year

HONDA RACING GDR FOX RACING TEAM We are very fortunate in Canada to have some great teams with a lot of incredible people at the helm competing in our National Series. All of our main teams enjoyed success

in 2019 whether by winning titles or individual races. When you roam through the paddock on race day, each and every team has a great set up and are very approachable for fans and media alike. However, since I have to pick one for the Team of the Year, I’m going to choose the Derek Schuster run team based out of Courtland, Ontario. Right from the start of the season the Honda Racing GDR Fox Racing Team was at the top of their game. Their 250 rider, Dylan Wright, came out of the gate very strong in the AXTour and ended up winning his first ever pro championship. From there, Dylan and his teammate, Colton Facciotti, were relentless in their pursuit of excellence and captured both the 250 and 450 MXTour titles respectively in stunning fashion. It was definitely a great year for the red team, and as we look ahead to 2020, Dylan Wright will be moving up to the 450 class and Tanner Ward has signed on to compete in the 250 class. Congratulations to the GDR Honda Team for all of their success in 2019 and for winning the prestigious 2019 Golden Elbow Team of the Year

MOTOCROSS PERFORMANCE · MXPMAG.COM // 39

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Event of the Year

2019 WALTON TRANSCAN We enjoyed a cacophony of great events during the past year in Canadian moto. A few

that stick out to me were the Moto Park Cup events, the Deschambault ECAN, and the Montreal SX. But if I had to pick one then it would most certainly be the Walton TransCan. There were a few things that went into making the TransCan the winner in this category, most of which were as always dictated by Mother Nature.

For the past few years she has not been on the side of this event and has punished Canada’s top amateur riders with multiple days of rain. However, this time around it only rained lightly one afternoon. The weather was great all week and the calibre of racing reflected that. Also, away from the track, everyone got to enjoy events like the Shift Holeshot Challenge, Bingo with Phil Nicoletti, and hanging

out with Josh Hansen. There was a lot to do and a lot of people to do it with. After the amateur championships were handed out, those riders quickly turned into fans and were able to watch Colton Facciotti win his 6th 450 Canadian Championship before waving good-bye to all in attendance.

It was the perfect way to celebrate Colton’s long and successful career, and there was no better stage to do it on than Walton Raceway, a track that he’s been coming to since 2000. After a successful year and this Golden Elbow Award, I cannot wait to see what is in store at Walton Raceway in 2020.

When choosing this award I really had to go into my memory vault to visualize all of the races I witnessed during the past year. I even went back to

Best Moto of 2019

450 MOTO 2 IN PRINCE GEORGE

Anaheim in January when I watched six very entertaining main events in the first Triple Crown event of the 2019 Monster Energy Supercross Series. There were plenty of great races for me to choose from in 2019 in both the pro classes as well as the amateur classes. All three Supermini races at the Walton TransCan come to mind, for sure, and they are races I’d love to see again. However, for me, the winner of this Golden Elbow Award is the second 450 moto from Round 2 of the Rockstar Energy Triple Crown MXTour Series in Prince George. During that moto Colton Facciotti and Phil Nicoletti were pretty much feet apart for almost 25 minutes. Even though the series was three motos old at the time, this would be the first time that these two warriors would battle to this extreme. Lap after lap, with Facciotti out front and having to deal with lapped riders and deteriorating track conditions, Nicoletti was parked right on his rear tire waiting for an opening. Finally, with three laps to go, Facciotti was able to turn in a lap time that was two seconds better than Nicoletti’s, which allowed the Honda rider to increase his lead from 0.933 to 3.773. Think about that for a second. From Lap 6 until Lap 15 Colton’s lead over Phil was less than a second. It was an amazing performance by both riders and it was kind of an introduction to each other as it gave them a glimpse of how tough each man would be throughout the series.

40 // MOTOCROSS PERFORMANCE · MXPMAG.COM

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Most Stylish Rider of 2019

JESS PETTIS One of the coolest things about our sport is how each rider’s style differs from the riders lined up next to them on the starting line. To be perfectly hon-

est, when I was growing up, all of the top riders were fast but riders with good style were few and far between. These days almost every top rider has a good riding style with solid fundamentals, but like in any sport, some are still better to watch than others. In the past, the winners in this category have been riders like Christophe Pourcel and Cole Thompson, riders that don’t appear to use a lot energy as they race on even the roughest of tracks.

Pourcel, for instance, was so smooth and fluid that you could barely hear him as he rode by. Usually he was two gears higher than every other rider, using about 25% less RPMs. Cole Thompson is much like Pourcel in that he rides his bike much the same. The only difference is, at times Cole lacks a little of the superior line choosing skill that Pourcel was seemingly born with.

For 2019, I’m giving this award to Jess Pettis as I’m really enjoying his old-schoolmeets-new-school riding style. During this summer’s MXTour Series, every time I watched Pettis circulate around the track he was almost always in the perfect riding position. He may not be as smooth as Thompson or as efficient as Colton Facciotti, but his neutral and aggressive style gets the job done.

One thing that has been proven over the years is it’s very difficult, in fact almost impossible to be a good SX rider if you don’t have a good technical riding style. Now, that doesn’t mean you’re not going to find success indoors, Marvin Musquin is proving that each year in SX, but to manipulate a 240lb motorcycle around a tight jumped-filled indoor track takes a riding style that is based on good fundamentals, great balance and great anticipation. Jess Pettis has all of this and that is one reason why he is a great indoor rider and also a National Outdoor Champion. Over the years Pettis has worked on his riding style, and once he recovers from his latest injury, I cannot wait to see him back on the racetrack.

MOTOCROSS PERFORMANCE · MXPMAG.COM // 41

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Female Rider of the Year

EVERY FEMALE RIDER IN CANADA With so many talented female riders in our sport now it was impossible for me to pick just one this year. There were great

performances from riders like Eve Brodeur, Shelby Turner and Lexi Pechout both here in Canada as well as on the world stage. Their outstanding achievements once again prove that we possess some of the best female riders on the planet. However, this year I want to celebrate all of the female riders in Canada, regardless of their age, talent or experience. When I was growing up there was only a handful of girls who raced each weekend. Now their classes are full and we’re seeing more and more girls out there battling in all classes.

A sport like motocross teaches an individual so much about life and the pursuit of excellence. When you’re out on the racetrack it’s just you and your bike battling the track and the competition; one mistake can lead to a crash resulting in someone passing you. This process doesn’t know someone’s gender, it just knows that you have to work hard. Just like in life, you get out of it what you put into it. So, for 2019 my Golden Elbow Award for the Female Rider of the Year goes to every girl who threw their leg over a dirt bike this year.

42 // MOTOCROSS PERFORMANCE · MXPMAG.COM

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Rookie of the Year

SAM GAYNOR Starting a new job or entering a new class or level in a sport is never an easy thing. As you walk through the door for the first time you don’t know what’s on the other side or if you’ll be able to handle the added pressure and workload.

For every rookie that is able to find success there are more than a few who don’t. The task of learning while competing at a high level is never an easy thing; it takes the right person to stay on track.

For 2019, that person was Ontario rider Sam Gaynor, who spent the season under the

Rockstar Energy OTSFF Yamaha tent. Growing up, Sam was always a talented rider who possessed a lot of promise but always seemed to play second fiddle to faster riders. However, you can’t have a rainbow without first having some rain.

Perhaps it was through this adversity that Sam learned how to work and remain positive.

Throughout the 2019 season Sam definitely had his share of ups and downs on his way to 9th overall in the 450 Triple Crown Series. His impressive finishes put Sam in the spotlight at almost every round, and he was a great addition to the OTSFF Yamaha Team. Sam was strong and found a way to remain consistent starting with the first gate drop, something that we usually don’t expect from rookie athletes. Sam Gaynor had a great year and he is my pick for the 2019 Rookie of the Year Award.

Top Canadian Rider

COLTON FACCIOTTI What can I say about Colton Facciotti that hasn’t already been said by pretty much everyone? At the end of the 2018

season I don’t think anyone would’ve found fault in the then five-time 450 Champion if he said that he was going to walk away from the sport. After all, Colton had just come off another successful season aboard his Honda, and in my humble opinion he was riding better then ever. But after a very hard crash in Quebec City last November, Colton was hurting and once again feeling his age. As the cold winter set in and the calendar turned to 2019, Colton decided that he wanted to compete in one last outdoor national series. As we look back, it’s obvious that he made the correct decision.

Although the 2019 MXTour was extremely difficult for him, Colton came out on top and now he’s a six-time 450 Champion. With Colton announcing last month that he’s officially retiring

from competitive racing, we can all look back at his incredible career. He most certainly had a great run, and during that time he’s had so many unforgettable moments. Through it all there have been so many things about that have impressed me, but the one that has impressed me the most is how Colton was able to transition so

successfully from a kid, to a teenager, to an adult, and in recent years, to a husband and father. He’s been a champion from start to finish, and his departure from the starting gate will leave a big void in our series. For so many reasons, Colton Facciotti is the Golden Elbow Award winner as the Top Canadian Rider of 2019.

MOTOCROSS PERFORMANCE · MXPMAG.COM // 43

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Toughest National of the Year

SAND DEL LEE NATIONAL Multiple times in the past, the winner in this category has been the very challenging Gopher Dunes National. Racing

Top Amateur Rider of 2019

RYDER MCNABB

Like all of these awards, picking the Top Amateur Rider was extremely difficult because we are lucky enough to posses so many talented young riders. These fast kids entertained us all season

long both on the national level as well as regionally. At the WCAN, the ECAN as well as at the Walton TransCan, our Amateur riders competed so very hard in some very tough conditions. However, if I had to pick one rider who stood out, that rider would be Ryder McNabb. Ryder not only won two Walton TrasnCan titles, but he also had a strong showing at the Loretta Lynn’s Amateur National in Tennessee. I will say that Jacob Piccolo was a very close second in my voting for this award. Piccolo had a great comeback year from his 2018 injury, winning two TransCan titles as well as a couple of WCAN titles.

But there is a sense of urgency to McNabb’s riding that I feel sets him apart in this very competitive category. If Piccolo can find that same intensity as he enters the pro class next year then he could be a podium rider in the 250 class; he’s that good. McNabb, on the other hand, already has it and that is why he’s my pick as the Top Amateur Rider of 2019.

at Gopher Dunes is never easy, and that task gets even more difficult in July when the conditions are hot and humid. This past summer, Round 4 at Gopher Dunes was most certainly a tough race for all of the riders, as was the cold and muddy Minnedosa National. But my pick for the Toughest National of 2019 goes to Round 5 of the MXTour at Sand Del Lee. Although this race has always been a challenging one, this summer when the sun came up on race day it was hot...very hot! It was one of those summer days when you had trouble even breathing as the air over top of Sand Del Lee was extremely muggy and stagnant.

For this reason, the MRC was forced to take the precaution of shortening the second motos by five minutes, something that was welcomed by the riders and pit crews. As you may recall, there was a lot of drama that day as Mike Alessi and Phil Nicoletti had their altercation. Perhaps every rider was a little more on edge because of the weather conditions? Regardless of what happened on or off or the track, every rider did their best to get through this incredibly difficult race day without incident. In the end, every rider made it through in one piece and on to the next round in Moncton.

Congratulations to Sand Del Lee on winning this Golden Elbow Award, and we all look forward to celebrating their 50th Anniversary in 2020.

44 // MOTOCROSS PERFORMANCE · MXPMAG.COM

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MXP CHATTER

RYAN DOWD B Y A N DY W H I T E / P H O T O S B Y J A M E S L I S S I M O R E

Every now and then there is a wild card from the United States that comes up and makes their mark on the Canadian MX scene. The other day I was looking at the results of the outdoor segment of the Triple Crown Series and I noticed Ryan Dowd had finished seventh overall in the MX1 class. I thought, wow, that’s pretty amazing for a kid out of New England. Then I wondered, does anyone up here in Canada really know who Ryan Dowd really is? If the “Dowd” part rings a bell, if you’re thinking of New England MX legend John Dowd, you are on the money. Ryan is his son. Ryan is twenty-one years-old and started riding when he was five years-old. The reason I knew Ryan was up in Canada was he was the only rider racing a Suzuki. I know they reached out to Suzuki Canada for support but didn’t hear a thing back. Well, Suzuki got a whole whack of free exposure this summer with him. It’s a shame that a company like Suzuki can’t find a few dollars for a rider at Ryan’s level. If you have been a moto fan as long as I have, you know John Dowd was and still is a legend. It can’t be easy for the son of a famous factory rider to fill the shoes of their father...or is it?

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MXP CHATTER

I KNOW JOHN IS SUPER COMPETITIVE. WHAT WAS IT LIKE WHEN YOU FINALLY HAD THE SPEED TO HANG WITH YOUR DAD AND FINALLY MAKE SOME PASSES ON HIM? THAT MUST HAVE BEEN A GOOD FEELING?

WE THOUGHT IT WOULD BE GOOD TO CATCH UP WITH THE RIDER FROM NEW ENGLAND THAT FINISHED SEVENTH OVERALL IN THE OUTDOOR SEGMENT OF THE TRIPLE CROWN CANADIAN MX TOUR FOR 2019. RYAN, I DON’T THINK MANY CANADIANS KNOW WHO YOU ARE AND YOUR BACKGROUND. WHEN I THINK OF YOU, I THINK OF SOUTHWICK AND NEW ENGLAND. TELL US WHERE YOU ARE FROM AND HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN RACING. Yes, I had so much fun racing the whole outdoor series this year, and I’m pumped on the 7th! I am from Springfield, Massachusetts and currently live in a smaller town next door called Ludlow. I believe I have been racing for about 16 years now, going into my 17th! It’s in my blood!

WHEN WE THINK OF THE DOWD NAME, THE FIRST NAME THAT COMES UP IS YOUR DAD “JOHN.” WAS THERE MUCH PRESSURE ON YOU TO WIN RACES AND KEEP THE NAME GOING IN THE NEW ENGLAND AREA? It’s funny, I actually get this question a lot, and when I say my answer, I usually get a puzzled look. I guess you could say there was definitely some pressure put on me, but I never felt it. My Dad never put too much on me and I always just felt like I was out there for myself. I never tried to set expectations too high for myself, and just took it one step at a time.

Yeah, I still remember it to this day! It was Father’s Day in 2014 at Winchester Speedpark. He beat me off the start into the first turn in the first moto, but I passed him going through the first turn and was leading by the second turn and never looked back. I remember thinking the whole race, “When is he gonna pass me?”

But he never did! I held the gap at 2 seconds for the whole race, and man, when I took the checkered it was the most amazing feeling ever! It was short lived though because he made sure that didn’t happen again in Moto 2 when he put a hurting on me [laughs].

I AM SURE YOU HAVE RIDDEN EVERY TRACK IN THE NORTHEAST FOR YEARS. WHY THE DECISION TO GO NORTH AND RACE THE CANADIAN SERIES? YOU HAVE BEEN COMING UP FOR QUITE A FEW YEARS.

Yeah, I guess I just didn’t have the level of enjoyment in the states as I did in Canada, at least at the national level. The US Nationals are strictly about business. It’s hard to enjoy the process and have fun with the politics of US racing. Up in the Triple Crown Series, they really make it about the riders and the racing itself. That’s the main focus. It isn’t about how much money they can make and that’s the main reason why I keep coming back.

I enjoy the atmosphere so much more.

I feel like I’m having an awesome time every time I hit the track, and everyone is so friendly!

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THIS WAS THE FIRST YEAR YOU ATTENDED ALL THE OUTDOOR ROUNDS. WERE YOU HAPPY WITH YOUR RESULTS? FINISHING 7TH OVERALL IS PRETTY DAMN GOOD IN MY OPINION.

I was super stoked on my results! It was my first time ever following an entire outdoor pro national series in its entirety, so I didn’t really know what to expect - I took it one race at a time. My only goal was to earn enough points to get a Triple Crown career number, and I did! I also wanted to just make it through the whole series injury free and finish every race, and I managed to do so. I gained so much experience and I’m super happy I did it.

YOU HAVE COMPLETED A FULL YEAR, YOU KNOW ALL THE TRACKS AND FIGURED OUT WHAT TO DO ON THE ROAD WHILE TRAVELING. WILL YOU COME BACK IT 2020?

As of right now I don’t really have enough support to do the whole series again, because I can’t afford to go out west on my own again. I’m really hoping to get some help from anyone so that I can continue doing the whole series up there, because now that I know the tracks and how the whole series goes, I’d love to give it another shot. But as of right now, doing it all on my own, I just don’t think it’s in the cards right now. I will absolutely be back for the eastern rounds though!

RACING AT YOUR LEVEL IS A FULL-TIME JOB. WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS FOR THE OFF SEASON? HOW DO YOU KEEP THE MOTIVATION OVER THE WINTER? Well, I actually haven’t been doing much in the off season yet. I wanted to take a little break after the last big race here in New England, and once I did I started noticing I was having some health issues that I’m still currently dealing with. But I am in the process of figuring it out and will hopefully have some answers soon so I can get back to training. I won’t lie, it’s tough to keep the motivation year-round, but there comes a time when you are away from racing and riding for a little too long and the desire comes right back. I’m planning on going back down south this winter for another season of training.

HAVE YOU THOUGHT ABOUT SX?

Yes, of course. I haven’t really had the chance to earn my SX license yet in the states. We didn’t really have everything set up once the amateur supercrosses came around, but I was hoping to try some of the Triple Crown supercrosses first because I feel like it would be a perfect place to get my feet wet. I definitely see it in my future. I would love to do all three portions of the Triple Crown series.

The American supercrosses are very expensive and the license application process is very rigorous, so we’ll see!

“I ENJOY THE ATMOSPHERE SO MUCH MORE. I FEEL LIKE I’M HAVING AN AWESOME TIME EVERY TIME I HIT THE TRACK, AND EVERYONE IS SO FRIENDLY!” MOTOCROSS PERFORMANCE · MXPMAG.COM // 49

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2019-12-05 2:04 PM

MXP CHATTER

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“BUT AS OF RIGHT NOW, DOING IT ALL ON MY OWN, I JUST DON’T THINK IT’S IN THE CARDS RIGHT NOW. I WILL ABSOLUTELY BE BACK FOR THE EASTERN ROUNDS THOUGH!”

WHEN YOU TRAVEL TO THE RACES WITH YOUR DAD, HOW IS HE AROUND YOU? DOES HE TRY TO GIVE YOU POINTERS OR IS HE PRETTY EASY ON YOU?

THANKS FOR TAKING TIME OUT OF YOUR SCHEDULE. I AM SURE YOU HAVE A BIG LIST OF PEOPLE YOU WOULD LIKE TO THANK.

He usually will give me pointers if he sees something on the track that I’m doing that I don’t realize I’m doing wrong or I don’t realize I could be doing better or differently. Sometimes it’s hard to listen to him because although I know he knows what he’s doing, he’s still Dad and we never listen to our fathers! [laughs]. But he is great to have around because I think he makes the race less nerve-wracking for me and I’m more comfortable racing with him around because I’ve been doing it my whole life.

WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS MOVING FORWARD? WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN THE NEXT 5 YEARS? Within the next 5 years I’m hoping to be on a factory team racing in Canada throughout the year! Maybe even battling for a championship!

If an opportunity came along in the states I would for sure take it, but my main focus right now is doing as best as I can in Canada and hoping to be picked up by someone!

Yes, actually would just like to say thank you so much to Kyle Thompson for being a friend and treating me like family up there and making me feel at home in a different country. He doesn’t have to go out of his way for me, yet he still does, and I just want him to know how much I appreciate it. Also thank you to you too, Andy, for the same reason: looking out for me and supporting me. Thank you so much!

Thanks again for giving me some more exposure! I have to thank my Mom and Dad, Joseph Ventura, Alexander Adams, Kenny Germain, Full Throttle Powersports, Moose Racing, Performance Tuning, Joe V Designs, Factory Connection, 100%, Dunlop, Shoei, Pro Circuit, Hinson, R2 MX Graphics, Vesta CBD, Renthal, Alpinestars, Spectro, Twin Air, Sunoco, Motion Pro, Wiseco, Works Connection and Leatt. Each and every one of these companies and people have played a huge part in getting me to where I am today.

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A NEW SET OF EYES ON AN AGE-OLD CONCEPT ROOST FACTORY LAUNCHED INTO THE TWO-WHEEL OFF-ROAD MARKET WITH HOOSIER RACING TIRE AND A SELECT GROUP OF PERFORMANCE BRANDS AND PRODUCTS; AN INNOVATIVE AND FRESH APPROACH TO SERVING A COMPETITIVE INDUSTRY. THAT APPROACH EXTENDS TO OUR SPONSORSHIP PROGRAM.

52 // MOTOCROSS PERFORMANCE · MXPMAG.COM

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T

o be a sponsored athlete is the ultimate recognition for anyone in any sport – it is the holy grail, to be picked up by a factory team and have your whole racing career taken care of, though this dream will only ever be realized by the one percent.

While the top performers deserve to be recognized and commended for the talent, sacrifice and commitment needed to consistently podium, we asked what would happen if there was support available at every level.

How many potential winners could emerge that might not otherwise? We have more in mind than simply helping you win. The second consideration for our program is that if we provided more than a simple discount sponsorship with our trackside support, truly material resources and ways to financially fund the amateurs racing programs, could we have an impact on the darker underside of this sport?

The inevitable accidents and injuries have always been considered “part of the sport” but could better resources and support reduce injuries? We know eliminating injuries and accidents is impossible, but we believe with the support we provide we can help reduce the risk. The final component to our thinking was founded through the observation that this sport is so much more than just racing, it is a lifestyle lived and loved by thousands across North America. If we could contribute to that lifestyle as well as reward our members with a trackside support system unlike any before, we knew we could make a difference in the grassroots community.

From these three considerations, among many others, emerged our 2020 and beyond sponsorship program.

Our overall program has been designed to facilitate, enable and support riders at every level to get more out of the sport they love. Regardless of whether the ambition is to ride better with more confidence, to keep doing it for longer, or if the ambition is to become the next superstar of the sport, we have exactly what you need.

With access to better equipment,

proven brands, a factory-like presence and support trackside, Roost Factory Hoosier Offroad is the next level of sponsor. Along with other resources and partnerships (that we are adding on an ongoing basis), things like winter training destinations, preferred bike prices, parts allowances, coaching resources and performance services are all elements that make up our programs.

At the Roost Factory we assembled a series of programs that make the level of support and resources that is usually reserved for the elite few accessible to everyone. You don’t have to win to win with Roost Factory Hoosier Offroad. We actually believe the unheralded champions of this sport are those families that turn up weekend after weekend on their own dime with little more than a discount and a passion to race. These are the champions that enable those

that stand on top of the podium to become champions!

Our goal is to support, reward, encourage and enhance the families that fund this sport. We recognize that motocross isn’t all about winning; it’s about the lifestyle, the community, the friendships, and the memories that are created every day at the track.

While we here at Roost Factory Hoosier Offroad love to stand on top of the podium, and we have certainly spent our fair share of time on top of the box this season, we also believe some of the greatest races and competition happen further back in the pack. Some of the biggest passes, crashes and surprises of the year that shape the season happen behind the race leaders.

The Roost Factory Sponsorship Program goes far beyond the traditional “sponsorship” discount by offering savings, credits, incentives, contingency compensation, riding support and partnerships that contribute meaningful financial support and resources for every rider and skill level in the sport. Based on a combination of your purchases, commitment, participation and performance, there is truly a level for every situation.

The Roost Factory programs offer a truly material contribution to your race program and enjoyment of the sport.

For the 2020 Sponsorship Season we are launching a program specifically designed for every level of racer.

We have a complete lineup of performance brands all born and proven at tracks around the world and available - many exclusively through Roost Factory’s Rider Support and resources not always or easily available to the majority, and a team of passionate motosport zealouts (our team) to help get you where you want to go!

Sponsorship Level Details

This sport depends on everyone so we have developed a tiered program that enables everyone to participate and benefit.

Every level will have a signing bonus for signing up and making the initial commitment followed by performance bonuses for hitting different levels of performance on the track and in achieving purchase levels.

Every level has an accelerator in terms of amplified benefits and rewards as different levels are achieved, and they are all retro-active, which means that when you hit the level, your rewards are automatically retroactive to your first purchase of the year. The cool thing about this is that at each level achieved, your account gets a nice deposit bonus to help fund and support your sport and lifestyle!

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The “Free Agent” level offers you a no commitment required option where you simply purchase our products and earn a 5% credit for future purchases.

A “Weekend Warrior” is one of the hardest working groups of off-road enthusiasts. They are the men and women, boys and girls who work their day jobs and night shifts week in and week out for the chance to ride once or twice a week. This is the group that supports and feeds the motorsports industry we all know and love. Your hard-earned dollars are spent on products, parts, gear, bikes, tires, track fees, memberships, race fees and more, all of which funds and fuels the industry. While other companies concentrate their Sponsorship on podium placers, we want to show our appreciation to you, the Weekend Warrior. Whether you’re first or last in your class, our Weekend Warrior Sponsorship Level is designed for you.

An “Elite Privateer” is dedicated to the sport regardless if they are Amateur or Pro. These riders are passionate and committed to their racing careers but may not have the support of a Pro Team or a free ride. You’re dedicated and passionate but you’re also spending your own hard-earned money at the track chasing your dreams. You work a fulltime job, you pick up extra shifts during the off-season, you regularly skip out on family events and drinks with friends, all so you can be riding or training in the gym three to five days a week no matter what life throws at you. Elite Privateers are doing the best they can with what they have at hand. Roost Factory Hoosier Offroad wants to reach out and give those Elite Privateers the boost they need to reach their dreams.

The ultimate goal for many Weekend Warriors and Elite Privateers is to one day be considered a Pro and to achieve the “RF Factory Pro Rider” status. The RF Factory Pro Riders are the cream of the crop from our family of racers and they must be committed to attending 15 races per year and helping out at trade shows and events. You’ve fought your way through the ranks, you’ve put your blood, sweat, tears and hard-earned money on the line, and now you’ve found a team that will support and reward you regardless of how you place. We know there are good days, great days and really bad days, and we know coming back from an injury can take time. Although we certainly do love that feeling of standing on top of the box, we are here to support you as a team and as a family every step of the way through your journey on and off the track.

A “Team Manager” is the leader of his group of friends or family circle. A team can consist of a minimum of 5 riders who funnel their purchases through the Team Manager.

A team is likely going to consist of a group of Weekend Warriors and Elite Privateers who want to come together for added benefits, rewards, credits and bonuses!

This is just one more way we are giving the hard-working amateur and privateer men and women the support they need. The Team Manager level features elevated levels of rewards and benefits including assistance with custom team marketing materials, support and experience enhancing rewards.

The “Crew Chief” program is the perfect way to take your race budget and program to a new level. It’s tax effective and a cool way to help subsidize your program, and even turn it into a profit. Promote and sell products trackside while benefiting from being a key part of the Roost Factory Hoosier Offroad Family. Turn your passion into a business!

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The Benefits:

The Roost Factory Hoosier Offroad Ultimate Amateur Sponsorship program is about more than a product or a discount, it’s about supporting every level of racer from Amateur to Pro. Here are some of the unique features you can expect as part of the Roost Factory Racing Team.

Trackside Support:

Service and support trackside at our exclusive Purple Paddock – wherever we are you are welcome if you are a member of our team. Check out our website regularly for our purple paddock event schedule – we are at over 200 races a year and growing! If you are a member of the Roost Factory Racing Program you can call ahead to us and we will reserve you a spot in our preferred paddock position – so now running late doesn’t mean you have to park at the back of the field and run to the starting line! Before the race has even started our members are VIPs.

More than a Product:

Roost Factory has a whole lineup of performance brands hand-picked by our staff of racers, recreational riders and industry professionals. With our program you get a complete range of products proven to enhance your race performance from our exclusive Hoosier Offroad racing tires, to our exceptional tools from BOXO, our Red Line Oil product line, 3 – Minute Tire Changer and more! Every one of our products can save time and increase your performance. Plus, our racers receive a Product Multiplier to earn more Roost Factory Dollars for every product they use or equip over and above their Sponsorship Level minimum. For example, Weekend Warriors are only expected to run two Roost Factory products of their choice (we recommend the Hoosier Offroad MX tire being one of those two products).

Exclusive Access and Offers: Receive exclusive access and offers to tracks, camps, coaches, and training insights from the top pros in the sport, past and present. While savings and rewards are important, so is skill and access to resources that improve your confidence and riding skills. We are building a network of Roost Factory racing schools in partnership with tracks, trainers and camps to increase the ease and accessibility of training, practicing and coaching. Stay tuned and watch for our new website for our current partners and more details!

Bonus Rewards and Pricing:

Our Roost Factory racers receive 15% to 30% of all purchases made back in Roost Dollars depending on the Sponsorship Level and spending threshold. Elite Privateers, for example, receive 15% back on purchases, but once they reach the $1,000 spend threshold, they receive 20% back! At select participating dealers, Roost Factory Members have access to Preferred Pricing Programs on select bike brands and exclusive Parts Credit and Allowance. Team Members can also collect major reward dollars by volunteering at events, posting on social media, participating in special promotions and more!

Marketing and Promotion:

We want to promote you and your racing successes and struggles. By submitting your race results online, we are able to track your progress, award Contingency funds, include you in our regular Roost Report, and qualify you for racing related promotions and contests! Submit your race results within 7 days following an event or within 48 hours to be included in the weekly Roost Report.

Be sure to tag us @HoosierOffroad on Instagram and at Roost Factory Hoosier Offroad on Facebook so we can share and repost your videos, photos and updates! Don’t forget to use the hashtags #RoostFactory and #WhereWarriorsGather on Instagram.

Our Exclusive Contingency Program:

Everyone is excited about the possibility of compensation and rewards for earning a spot on the podium, well, at least those with a sure shot at standing on the podium. Our Contingency Program (to be launched Spring 2020) is a two-tiered program that provides incentives and rewards those who podium, but consistent with our commitment to grassroots racing we are launching our Participation Rewards Program for participating. Most of us will never have a good shot at the podium, but for us winning isn’t the podium or a championship, though it would be nice. Our racers are in the middle and back of the pack pushing themselves to achieve personal bests to beat their buddies. Those are who this program is focused on.

Find out more online at Hoosier-Offroad.com and Apply today at Hoosier-Offroad.com/SponsorMe MOTOCROSS PERFORMANCE · MXPMAG.COM // 55

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CATCHING UP

WITH QUINN AMYOTTE

BY CL AU DI E LI SS I MOR E / PHOTOS BY JAM E S LI SS I MOR E

AT 19-YEARS-OLD, QUINN AMYOTTE JUST HAD ONE OF THE BEST SUMMERS OF HIS LIFE. VOTED ROOKIE OF THE YEAR FOLLOWING THE 2019 CANADIAN MOTOCROSS SEASON, QUINN CAN DEFINITELY SAY THAT HIS PERFORMANCE IN HIS FIRST YEAR OF RACING PROFESSIONAL MOTOCROSS TURNED OUT TO BE FAR ABOVE HIS EXPECTATIONS. THE ONTARIO BASED RIDER, MORE PRECISELY FROM THE BLACKSTOCK AREA, HAS BEEN ON A DIRT BIKE SINCE HIS 2ND BIRTHDAY AND HAS BEEN ATTENDING MOTOCROSS RACES FOR ALMOST HIS ENTIRE LIFE. AFTER MULTIPLE IMPRESSIVE PERFORMANCES, LEADING TO RECOGNITION FROM THE INDUSTRY, WE DECIDED TO SIT DOWN WITH QUINN TO LEARN A LITTLE MORE ABOUT HIS JOURNEY.

First of all, can you tell us how and when you got into motocross?

My Dad and my whole family raced before I was even born, so it didn’t take long for them to introduce me to the sport. I was thrown into it right away and started when I was 2-years-old. At 4-years-old I was starting to be very comfortable on my bike, then I began my racing career.

Can you quickly walk us through your amateur years?

I had some success as an amateur, but I was never doing well when it counted. I would have a good season and then couldn’t make it happen at races like the Walton Trans Can or other, more prestigious races. It is probably why I never got a lot of recognition throughout my amateur years.

When did it become clear that you wanted to become professional?

Even as a kid, I’ve always wanted to be professional. It was always there, but it became more real and serious about two years ago when I realized that I would actually be able to do it.

“Even as a kid, I’ve always wanted to be professional. It was always there, but it became more real and serious about two years ago when I realized that I would actually be able to do it.”

Would you say you started taking it more seriously in the past year?

If so, what changed?

I definitely started taking it more seriously in the past year. The last few seasons went better and better, and it is a direct reflection of the extra effort I put together. I made sure I had the physical side of things taken care of and I started working out at Bowmanville Crossfit. I knew I needed a better fitness program to be able to endure the longer motos.

I also worked on my mental game. I had to tell myself that I could do it, that the other guys weren’t scary and that I deserved to be there as much as them.

Looking back at your 2019 season, you found a lot of success as a rookie in the 250 class. What were your expectations before the season started?

As mentioned earlier, I did a lot of fitness training during my offseason. On the other side, I had only put 20 hours on my bike before the season started. For this reason, before the first gate dropped, I didn’t really know where I would fit in.

Thankfully, it only took one round to realize that the off-bike preparation had been very useful and that I could now set my weekly goal to top-15.

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CATCHING UP

WITH QUINN AMYOTTE

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I think my 2019 highlight was the last round of the MX season at Walton.

After two great motos, I got my first ever top 10 overall in the Pro class.

This led to finishing the MX Series in 10th place overall in the 250 class.

There was a lot of talent in the class, and I honestly didn’t think it was possible, especially in my first year racing the class. None the less, I made it happen and I am very proud to be adding it to my racing resume.

I did something a little stupid after I got home from the western leg of the MX Series. I was enjoying a couple days off and I cracked a few ribs while playing around on a bicycle.

The eastern part of the series started shortly after and I was never able to let them heal properly. They ended up bothering me all summer.

What was your highlight of 2019?

“The rest of my family has been important as well. They all have something they do for me and I can’t thank them enough.”

What would be one thing that you would change about your 2019 season?

What is your plan, as far as racing goes, for the upcoming 2020 season?

My plans are to do the whole Triple Crown Series again. I am looking forward to seeing the new schedule and plan all our traveling. Also, now that I have my Pro license and gained more confidence, I would definitely like to attend some AMA Pro Nationals.

Can you tell us a little more about the other members of the Amyotte clan and their involvement in your racing activities?

I owe all of my successes to my family. Growing up, I have never really been to a training facility or had any sort of official training. I really owe everything I know about dirt bikes to them. I learned from just riding with my brothers and trying to keep up with them on our backyard pit bike track. I definitely got my speed from Bennet; he and I rode a lot together and he really helped me step up my game last year.

Obviously, I can’t forget my brother Mitch, who helped me so much this season. The rest of my family has been as important as well. They all have something they do for me and I can’t thank them enough.

What are you doing outside of racing motocross?

I am currently working full time to save up for next season, but my main hobbies are pit biking, bicycling and snowboarding!

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

I hope I can get a Factory ride at some point, hopefully soon. I would really like to continue doing what I love and in 5 years be racing a 450 for one of the major race teams.

What would you tell 8-year-old Quinn if you could talk to him?

I would tell him to start taking it serious sooner. I’ve always had the speed, I just needed to put the training and everything together.

Anybody you would like to thank?

My entire family, Gamma Powersports, GP Bikes, Amsoil, Crossfit Bowmanville, Impala Bicycles, Pitviper, 139 Designs, Team LTD, CRG, and TCD Suspension.

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TIME TO HEAD INDOORS

THE FUTURE WEST AX CHAMPIONSHIPS

BY JACLY N S E ITZ / P H OTOS BY DAR I N MAR R

W

ell the fans definitely got the bar banging arenacross action they were all hoping for at the opening two rounds of the Future West Moto AX! The atmosphere at the Chilliwack Heritage Park is like no other as the riders are so stoked to see each other, and the parents are excited to cheer each other in the Loft Bar that overlooks the track. It’s the perfect AX setup by far!! Better known as “Beat’s Barn,” the track was a little less technical than Kyle Beaton usually builds, but it made for a safe and fun weekend. It’s so surreal walking into the barn that my husband and I used to race at when Kyle Beaton and Dean Wilson were ripping on their 85cc bikes, and now Kyle is building the tracks for our son to race on…that doesn’t make me feel old at all!

A lot of Albertans came out of hibernation to finally get on their bikes and escape the snow, and of course the BC crew welcomed us all with open arms and strong race fumes! The indoor paddock was top notch with lots of

In BC, even the smallest kids wear GoPros.

“As always, these AX events have a family atmosphere with fellow riders helping each other out all weekend.”

Riding a PW-50, young Meston Lockhart had a blast at his first ever indoor race.

room for all the of dealers to setup their pit area side by side, working together and lending help to all the amateur riders. The race ran smoothly and on time with the riders getting a lot of track time throughout the day; it was definitely worth the trip for everyone. However, this could not happen without the Future West team and all of the sponsors involved with the event. Also, we cannot forget Kyle Beaton and Ryan Lockhart who taught riding schools in the early morning, organized practice in the afternoon and the ran the night show. Ryan also won

Indoor specialist Dexter Seitz was unbeatable in the 65cc Class.

the Vet class all while being a moto dad to his little guy Meston racing in the new Tyke class. The hard work of the entire team did not go unnoticed Friday and Saturday morning, Future West offered riding schools taught by Ryan Lockhart and Adam Enticknap.

All involved had a great time as the riders were split into two groups and were able to practice each section of the track numerous times. It was a great session, and a big shout out has to go to Taylor Coates of True Grit Industries as they covered nine young riders’ entry fees to the school. As always, these

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Which one of these fast young BC riders has the best style in this Chilliwack corner?

AX events have a family atmosphere with fellow riders helping each other out all weekend.

Opening ceremonies began with the amazing announcer John Wren doing the Riders Prayer and then right into the intense action of the Pro class with the friendly giants Collin Jurin and Keylan Meston going hard at it the first moto. Both riders were very aggressive and put on quite a show for the fans. It would be interesting to know what their heart rates were at because I know mine was running high just watching. Jurin ended up with the win, Meston was second and Alberta boy Nick Collins finished a solid third.

Collins is new to AX and did not disappoint. All weekend he rode smoothly and made it to the podium on both nights of racing.

Young Jacob Piccolo showed he has the speed and was leading the pro class with just a couple laps to go but made a mistake and threw away the

victory. Although it was too bad to see him crash, it did give us a glimpse of this kid’s raw speed indoors. It was also pretty cool to see Parker Eales and Kyle Springman, two local BC Pros both finishing on the podium Friday night. Parker finished on the podium Saturday night as well with a solid third. It was good to see the Pro class stacked; they raced each other hard and kept the fans entertained.

The “Dash for Cash” as always was the biggest crowd-pleasing event of the night, and the best place to watch it from was, of course, the Loft Bar. From there you can see the entire track; me and my fellow BC moto moms were screaming and cheering very loudly. There is something about watching two riders try to take each other out for a few hundred bucks, which is always entertaining.

After the Dash for Cash race the fans watched FMX riders Jeff Fehr and Kris Garwasiuk hit ramps and perform

Cycle North Kawasaki rider Colin Jurin was the dominant pro rider at the opening two rounds.

some scary looking tricks. They did not disappoint, and the fans loved it, especially the youngest fans in attendance as they couldn’t believe what they were seeing.

Julien Benek was also one to watch; he had no problem transferring his outdoor speed to indoors. He took the wins in the Open Intermediate class with Tyler Yates in second and Marcus Deausy in third. The Intermediate class is so full of BC talent. It’s fast, and these kids have heart. It almost feels like when they get the yellow plate it’s hammer time for them! It’s the class to watch and witness these kids push beyond their own expectations. During the remaining rounds of this series, the Intermediate class is definitely going to be one to watch.

In the Ladies class it was Cycle North rider Kiana Sache who showed her fellow girls the way around the track. I haven’t witnessed a girl ride AX as well as her; she was looking so It was great to see #11 Davey Fraser travel all the way from the East Coast to race.

smooth all weekend and was jumping all of the timing sections and doubles.

If she can carry this speed into the outdoors next year then 2020 is going to be very successful for her.

Throughout the evening the racing was great in all the classes, especially in the Supermini class. Regardless of what race it is, this class always seems to entertain everyone, and it’s one of my favourites. Tyson Dubuc took the win the first night while Travis Gibbs took the win on night two. Blake Davis was also fast and kept the leaders honest all weekend. I would look for this class championship to go right down to the final round.

Over the years this series has bred so much talent. The competition is always strong, and when you think about it, this is the only series going on during the winter in Canada. As much as I love watching the pro riders battle, it’s our future pros that this series really benefits. Whether it’s the riders I mentioned above or 65cc riders Dexter Seitz, Jayden Debodt, and of course Braxton Zeitner. Finally, there were the smallest riders on the track in the 50cc class. I love watching these little guys battle on the track, and then moments later they’re giving knuckles to all their buddies and getting big hugs from their parents.

It’s family moments like this that help to make our sport so special. With six more rounds to go in this series there is sure to be a lot more memorable action from inside the Chilliwack Heritage Park Arena. The Future West AX Championship has been going on for a long time, and with strong support from inside the BC region, I’m sure it will be around for many more years to come. This means there is a lot more, great racing to come and a lot more family memories to build. That’s what this series is all about!

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BOOTS 1. TECH 7 BOOTS Alpinestars // $459.95 The new Tech 7 boots are lighter and provide a complete feel with optimised contact on bike controls. The buckle system allows easy and precise closure and a high-impact aluminum bridge. The wide entry aperture allows for convenience and broad ranging calf fit adjustment and support. With 10 different colourways get the Tech 7 boots to match your style.

2. Instinct Prey 3. GX-J KIDS MX 4. 550 MX BOOT SPORTS // Boot BOOTS (Gaerne) SCOTT $549.95 FOX // $559.95 The Instinct boot improves performance by giving you greater command of the dirt bike.

A slim medial design gives you an intuitive feel of the bike, with a low ride chassis providing smooth shifting and better control of the rear brake. The outsole and burn guard utilizes a new Duratec compound for grip and durability.

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Importations Thibault // TBA The GX-J incorporates technology and styling that features protection and performance, providing an immediate step in comfort. High quality material and made in Italy. The structural support consists of two lugs that slide inside designed pockets, avoiding front and rear over extension while providing flex forwards and backwards.

Tried and tested the 550 boot was engineered for high performance.

Carefully crafted, multiaxial pivot, replaceable outsole insert, easy locking buckles and the free open entrance. Made in Italy, this lightweight boot combines durability and protection with mobility, grip and feel, ready to improve the precision of even the best riders.

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5. Youth Blitz XP 6. RADIAL BOOT THORMX // $249.95 Boots Thor // $179.95 The Thor Blitz XP boots are ready to deliver maximum support with fully synthetic calf inlays, injection molded panels, metal toe cap, and an outsole with a steel shank insert. Three adjustable straps for rider specific fit and an adjusted boot height tailored to younger riders.

All wrapped up with a mesh liner to promote airflow.

The new Thor Radial Boot features a mesh liner that promotes airflow while interior EVA panels enhance comfort. They also come with replaceable outsole inserts for extended wear. These new boots are more rigid and feature a fully synthetic calf overlays that deliver’s premium durability and optimal grip.

THORMX.COM

THORMX.COM

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GOGGLES 1. Armega Goggle 100% // $149.95 The ARMEGA offers unparalleled dominance for the modern racer: bringing ULTRA HD lens clarity to motocross. Experience definition and subtlety never before viewed through the lens of a goggle.Add that to our proprietary HiPER contrast-enhancing lens technology and you’ll feel the depth of terrain as you’re commanding past it.

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3. FURY GOGGLES (Scott)

2. Airspace II

4. Prospect LS Goggle

FOX // $84.95 The completely redesigned AirSpace goggle takes ventilation, peripheral vision, and comfort to a new level by fusing premium level performance features borrowed from Fox’s class leading VUE goggle with value focused materials and lense options.

Importations Thibault // $69.99 A new highlight among the 2020 collection, the SCOTT Fury Goggle is guaranteed to shake things up. Shaped by innovation, technology and design, the Fury follows in the steps of our flagship goggle, the Prospect. Featuring our proven SCOTT Lens Lock System, 3-layer face foam, non-slip silicone strap, and supporting all of the same accessories as the Prospect,

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Scott Sports // $129.95 Giving the rider a maximum field of vision, an innovative SCOTT lens lock system, articulated outriggers, new No Sweat 3-layer face foam and extra wide no-slip silicone strap. The light sensitive lens adapts automatically to sunlight intensity and is treated with Anti-fog lens treatment.

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DAYWEAR 1. Speedway Jacket

2. ORIGIN TEE GREY

3. ROCKSTAR 4. RECON 5. Radical REPLICA HOODIE COACHES JACKET Tee - Black

FOX // $139.95 The Speedway Jacket takes the iconic coach style silhouette and adds style and functional utility. Built using a quilted, durable ripstop fabric as the main material, the Speedway adds strategically placed and highly functional pocket options. Available in Black and Olive Green.

Husqvarna Motorcycles // $36.00 Made in Europe, Breathable, Moisture management, odor management, fast-drying with a natural look.

Husqvarna Motorcycles // $96.00 Sports style, Seam detailing, Very comfortable to wear, Closable side and breast pocket, Highquality workmanship, Large logo print.

SHIFT // $159.95 The new RECON Coaches Jacket is a riding version of the popular lifestyle staple. It’s perfect for your warmup laps during the chill of the morning or evenings when it starts to cool off after your ride.

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KTM // $29.99 Crew neck, Large print motif on front, 100% cotton K T M . C O M /C A - E N /

6. RADICAL ZIP HOODIE KTM // $83.99 Very comfortable to wear with a drawstring in hood, hidden side pockets and a large logo print.

7. FAST BOYZ TEE THORMX // $24.95 Available in Youth and Adult sizes.

THORMX.COM

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ARMOUR & PROTECTION

1. YOUTH SEQUENCE NECK ROLL

2. Atlas Air Brace

3. Pod K8 2.0 Knee Brace

4. Raceframe Impact

Alpinestars // $54.95 Specifically designed for youth riders, the Sequence Neck Roll transfers energy impact away from the upper neck. The external cover can be removed for cleaning and the soft strap closure is easy to use. With double density core and ergonomic design the neck roll is shaped for kids 6-10 and 10-14 years old. Start your young riders journey with the right gear.

Atlas Brace Technologies // $349.99 Atlas Neck Brace’s are known for the Patented flexible design, providing maximum comfort and mobility.

Combining a simplistic minimalist design with flexibility, suspension, and the largest brace-to-body contact ratio makes the Atlas family of braces a clear category leader across the entire range.

Blackfoot Direct // $1,099.77 The new K8 Knee Brace is setting new standards in knee protection with a new Impact Guard design that provides better protection to your knee, a slimmer Hinge Housing and improved Ligaments, new Dampening Inserts and Knee Grippers, and a new QuickLoc Clip System allowing you to anchor the brace to your leg quicker and easier.

Covered by most medical plans!

FOX // $199.95 The top level in Torso guards from Fox is the all new Raceframe Impact SB CE guard. The key feature to the SB is the addition of Fox’s proprietary F3 impact absorbing CE certified back guard. Quickly adjustable to fit all body types, the Raceframe comes in three different styles that can be worn over or under the jersey.

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5. MX Vest

6. GOTLAND JACKET

FXR // $100.00 The all-new MX Vest is a must-have for cold-weather and aggressive riding. The water and wind-resistant 4-way stretch vest will keep you warm and comfortable on the track or trails while preventing overheating and restriction.

Husqvarna Motorcycles // $300.00 The new Gotland Jacket is a waterproof off-road jacket that is multilayered and features a functional membrane. It also has maximum air circulation thanks to air intakes on the chest and vertical air outlets on the back. This jacket is actively styled with excellent freedom of movement for optimum comfort.

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7. COMP XP FLEX DEFLECTOR SHORT SLEEVE THORMX // $49.95 With a compression fit base layer and flat-stitched seams to minimize irritation, the new Thor Comp XP Flex Deflector is the perfect lightweight chest protector.

THORMX.COM

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8. SOFTCON 2 JACKET PROTECTOR Importations Thibault // $259.99 The SCOTT Jacket Protector Softcon 2 offers the latest in performance and technology. It exemplifies cutting edge personal safety technology and features specifically designed ergonomic and flexible D3O® pads and plates. It is compatible with a neck brace and the main body is made of stretch mesh fabrics and it contains anti-moisture inner panels in 3D panels.

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2. Transporter Bag 3. ORANGE TRAVEL FXR // $295.00 BAG 9800 FOX // $139.95 Haul your gear in this 88.5 x 39 x 44 cm gear bag. The Podium 180 Camo comes in Fox’s MX20 Camoflauge colourway and features a large main compartment and large boot compartments on each end.

The heavy-duty 150L Transporter bag has all the room to haul your gear from head to toe. The bag features a large main pouch, a separate padded helmet chamber, goggle and tear-off pouches, and a built-in removable waterproof boot bag. With a telescoping luggage handle and large corner-mounted wheels, this tough bag makes travel easy.

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KTM // $346.80 With I-FOM (integrated foam) construction throughout for added gear protection and a wide mouth LID opening for easy access to all gear compartments, the new Orange Travel 9800 KTM Gear Bag als has a large main compartment with adjustable dividers and a padded helmet chamber. There are also several multi-use LID compartments for apparel and smaller gear, and the SLED (Structural Load Equalizing Deck) System makes this bag easy to transport to the track.

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9. SOFTCON 2 BODY ARMOR PROTECTOR Importations Thibault // $219.99 The SCOTT Softcon 2 Body Armour Protector is a top choice for any rider looking for excellent safety technology. It is designed to be worn under the jersey and integrates seamlessly with most neck braces. The body armour also features specifically designed ergonomic and flexible D3O® plates. The shoulder pads are removable and contain an anti-moisture product to help keep you dry.

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10. SOFTCON 2 KNEE 11. SOFTCON ELBOW GUARDS GUARDS

4. SCOTT WHEEL DUFFLE 110 BAG

5. TRANSIT WHEELIE BAG

6. Thor Transit Wheeled Bag

Importations Thibault // $109.99 The SCOTT Softcon 2 Knee Guard is a new invention that matches high safety standards with mobility.

It provides specifically designed ergonomic and flexible D3O® pads, side padding and extended shin pad support. This knee guard also features efficient ergonomic positioned straps and an abrasion resistant front panel.

Importations Thibault // $69.99 The SCOTT Softcon Elbow Guards are a perfect choice for those who are looking for flexible and shock absorbing D3O® protectors. They are very comfortable due to the extra light weight and the breathable mesh - you will almost forget you are wearing them at all.

Importations Thibault // $189.99 With a massive main compartment and a separate compartment, the SCOTT Wheel Duffle 110 offers plenty of space for all your gear. Its abrasion resistant and water repellent fabric paired with high quality shock absorbing wheels let you conquer any obstacles or muddy terrain.

IMPORTATIONSTHIBAULT.COM

IMPORTATIONSTHIBAULT.COM

THORMX // $249.95 With a durable molded base and cinch straps to compress bag height, the new Thor Transit Wheelie Bag is perfect for riders that are going places. With a reinforeced handle that retracts smoothly, this bag is great for the track as well as for long trips. There is also a roll-out changing mat and this bags dimensions are 37”L x 16.75”W x 17.75”H.

Thor // $299.95 Get track ready with a durable and convenient transit wheelie bag from Thor. Oversized wheels, reinforced handles, and a durable molded base make this bag perfect for the track. The roll-out change mat, and helmet, goggle, and boot compartment make it convenient to gear up on the go. The cinch straps compress the bag height for easier packing.

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THORMX.COM

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HELMETS 1. S-M10 SUPERTECH HELMET

2. Arai VX-Pro4 Machine Helmet

3. Arai XD-4 Depart White/Blue

Alpinestars // $849.95 The most protective and performance enhancing helmet possible. With five years of intensive study, development, and testing, the S-M10 includes emergency release cheek pads, the latest generation of MIPS technology, and visor release mechanism for top notch protection.

Max comfortability with 19 intake and 5 exhaust ports. DOT and ECE approved at only 1340g.

Arai Helmet, Inc. // $749.95 The latest expression of the ultimate off-road helmet, the VX-Pro4 evolved from the much-loved VX-Pro3 model.

So it’s still the perfect choice for MX, enduro and off-road use. Just as in every Arai helmet, the basic and simple organic shell shape is based on the R75 shape concept.

Arai Helmet, Inc. // $769.95 Offering three distinct configurations allows the user to choose which works best for their riding needs, the XD4 features a comfort headliner, with 5mm peel-away temple pads, and our patent-pending FCS® cheek pad design, also with 5mm peel away layers for customized comfort.

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4. V3 Idol Helmet FOX // $599.95 The V3 Idol Helmet pays homage to the ‘80s with a colour scheme and graphics package that is modern yet classic. The all-new V3 Helmet is the most technologically advanced moto helmet Fox has ever offered. The techrich update includes an arsenal of revolutionary features including Fluid Inside® and Fox’s proprietary MVRS. F OX R AC I N G . C A

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5. 6D ATR-2 Race Div 6. 550 NOISE HELMET 7. 550 Carry ECE Helmet (Scott) Helmet

8. Youth Sector Bomber with MIPS

9. SECTOR SPLIT HELMET

FXR // $895.00 The 6D ATR-2 Helmet with advanced Omni-Directional Suspension technology delivers superior performance with the most compliant energy management solution available. Designed with a rebuildable liner, the ATR-2 improves rider safety and saves the consumer money. FXR has partnered with 6D because we want the best possible protection for our riders.

Thor // $176.95 The Thor Sector Bomber includes MIPS technology that reduces rotational energy when in an accident. Features like the hi-flow mouth vent, fully adjustable visor, and dual-density EPS liner for extra venting make the sector especially comfortable. The Sector Bomber is available in three different colourways.

THORMX // $159.95 The new Thor Sector Split Helmet features the MIPS® Brain Protection System that can reduce harmful forces transmitted to the brain for certain impacts.It is DOT and ECE 22.05 approved and has a rear shell shape that easily repositions your goggle strap.

With a hi-flow mouth vent with filter for air intake, and flexible rubber nose piece for comfort, this new Thor helmet is perfect for the modern rider.

F X R R AC I N G . C O M

Importations Thibault // $299.99 The SCOTT 550 Helmet is a high end helmet that pushes the limits of ventilation and safety.

Equipped with the latest safety technologies such as MIPS® and Conehead and the perfect cooling management with strategically placed vents you will feel good and safe throughout your entire ride.

IMPORTATIONSTHIBAULT.COM

Scott Sports // $289.95 Equipped with MIPS® Brain Protection System and Conehead technology, this helmet offer riders increased protection by reducing the impacts of both rotational and radial forces.The 550’s classleading, advanced cooling management system offers the best ventilation on the market by utilizing strategically placed vents throughout the helmet to maximize airflow.

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1. Ridecamp Glove 100% // $39.95 The 100% Ridecamp Glove allows you to hit the track or trails in comfort with everything you need and nothing you don’t.

The Ridecamp Glove is purpose built for riding, with a low profile feel that gives you more contact with the controls than the competition.

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2. RADAR GLOVES

3. 360 Glove

Alpinestars // $39.95 Incorporating a synthetic suede palm and thumb patch reinforcement for as well as localized perforations on the palm for breathability, the Radar gloves are designed for comfort and durability.

These lightweight gloves come with a backhand sublimated graphic in nine different colour combinations.

FOX // $47.95 The 360 Glove is unparalleled in fit, dexterity, and handlebar control. By incorporating advanced materials and innovative technology, the glove brings a whole new level of connection.

Stretch Cordura® ripstop fabric is used to increase durability while maintaining remarkable flexibility.

Available in a variety of colours.

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4. Coldstop Neoprene Glove FXR // $60.00 Windproof, water-resistant, and lightly insulated, the Coldstop Neoprene Glove is designed to keep you in control during cold riding conditions. In the mud and rain, the silicone printed fingertips improve lever feedback and provide a highly tactile feel.

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5. BRISKER GLOVES Husqvarna Motorcycles // $36.00 The new Brisker Gloves are a Premium Enduro glove with an intelligent material mix for maximum moisture transport away from the skin. They are also water-repellent and feature a silicone grip coating on the fingertips for optimum lever operation.

There is an adjustable TPR Velcro fastener on wrist as well as a reflective print for easy visibilty. These gloves are made exclusively for Husqvarna Motorcycles by 100%.

6. 450 ANGLED GLOVES (Scott) Importations Thibault // $46.99 The SCOTT 450 Angled Glove is a high end, lightweight breathable glove with everything you want and nothing you don’t. It features a lightweight span upper, molded Airprene cuff with one piece closure on base of wrist and a Clarino leather palm. The SCOTT 450 Glove is articulated for comfort and ease of use.

IMPORTATIONSTHIBAULT.COM

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7. 350 DIRT GLOVES (Scott)

8. ENDURO GLOVES (Scott)

9. RECON ARCHIVAL GLOVE

10. Youth Spectrum Gloves

Importations Thibault // $36.99 The SCOTT 350 Dirt Glove was designed with a minimalist approach. The single layer palm offers an unprecedented feel. A low profile Velcro closure, a twill span upper and a Clarino® palm make this glove the best bang for the buck around.

Importations Thibault // $45.99 The SCOTT Enduro Glove is purpose-built for the varied Enduro lifestyle. It has direct injection TPR protecting knuckles and fingers, Airprene cuff with TPR Velcro closure adding to a secure fit and touchscreen technology on first fingertip.

SHIFT // $49.95 The Archival RECON Glove features the iconic Shift bolts logo on wrist and old school Shift wordmark on the closure.

With the first Shift Archival limited edition drop in green and black, Shift pays homage to a gear set worn by Jeff Emig in 1997.

IMPORTATIONSTHIBAULT.COM

IMPORTATIONSTHIBAULT.COM

Thor // $29.95 Coverage. Comfort. Airflow.

The rubber and layered backhand panels offer excellent coverage. The Spectrum gloves lightly padded palm creates a comfortable grip and the mesh airprene construction with perforated palms keep hands cool. With six different colourways and silicone treated fingertips these gloves provide performance and style.

SHIFTMX.CA

11. AGILE GLOVE (RED) THORMX // $27.95 The new Thor Agile Clove features Silicone treated fingertips for improved lever control as well as extended, angled slip-on cuff for easy access. These gloves also have a fully perforated palm for airflow as well as a wrapped inner-thumb for durability.

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JERSEYS 1. RACER BRAAP JERSEY Alpinestars // $49.95 With a lightweight moisture wicking polyfabric construction, stretch collar, and fitted wrist cuffs, the Racer Braap provides advanced comfortability. A longer cut in the rear of the jersey for compatibility with the Alpinestars MX pants. Fade-resistant graphics come in four different colourways exclusively through your local Parts Canada dealer.

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2. Legion 3. Clutch MX DriRelease® Gain Jersey FXR // $55.00 Jersey

4. 450 ANGLED LIGHT JERSEY (Scott)

FOX // $54.95 The all-new 2020 Legion Collection is purposebuilt for epic off-road days where your only limit is how far you want to go.

The Legion DriRelease® Gain Jersey features a natural look and feel blended with durable fabrics and functional features.

Importations Thibault // $59.99 Fully vented and lightweight the SCOTT 450 Angled Light Jersey is your go-to jersey in hot conditions! The extremely breathable race fit allows for maximum flexibility without excess bulk.

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Featuring premium polyester birdseye knit and moisture-wicking yarns, Clutch MX Jersey maximizes value while delivering race-winning performance. With a shaped front collar and slim fit, the Clutch jersey will keep you feeling comfortable and fresh while attacking the track.

IMPORTATIONSTHIBAULT.COM

5. 450 PODIUM JERSEY (Scott)

6. 350 RACE JERSEY (Scott)

Importations Thibault // $59.99 The SCOTT 450 Podium Jersey is highly ventilated and features superior moisture wicking for increased comfort. A low profile collar reduces potential for discomfort under neck brace.

Importations Thibault // $45.99 Lightweight and highly vented, the SCOTT 350 Race Jersey will keep you cool on the bike.

The athletic design offers flexible mobility without any material bulkiness allowing for a comfortable, yet responsive fit.

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7. 350 TRACK JERSEY

8. 350 SWAP JERSEY (Scott)

9. ENDURO JERSEY 10. WHIT3 LABEL 11. Sector Youth 12. PRIME PRO (Scott) ARCHIVAL JERSEY Jersey BADDY JERSEY

Importations Thibault // $45.99 Lightweight and highly vented, the SCOTT 350 Track Jersey will keep you cool on the bike.

The athletic design offers flexible mobility without any material bulkiness allowing for a comfortable, yet responsive fit.

Importations Thibault // $45.99 Lightweight and highly vented, the SCOTT 350 Swap jersey will keep you cool on the bike.

The athletic design offers flexible mobility without any material bulkiness allowing for a comfortable, yet responsive fit. Choose your favorite colour and mix and match it with the 350 Swap pants.

Importations Thibault // $59.99 The SCOTT Enduro Jersey combines durablity with breathability. Purpose built for varied and ever changing enduro terrain. A high collared neck, durable chest and sleeves and mesh side ventilation make this a complete enduro jersey.

IMPORTATIONSTHIBAULT.COM

IMPORTATIONSTHIBAULT.COM

IMPORTATIONSTHIBAULT.COM

SHIFT // $44.95 Shift introduces Archival, a limited edition series of drops celebrating the OG years of Shift. From Fro Daddy to Cinqmars, the series brings back some of Shift’s most iconic looks from the late 90s and celebrates the unique aesthetic that has separated Shift from the pack ever since.

SHIFTMX.CA

Thor // $25.95 Look good, feel good, ride good. The Sector jersey incorporates a drop tail design to stay tucked in.

Stretch panels in the cuffs and collar and raglan style sleeves make for optimal mobility. Stay comfortable with a heat transfer neck label and moisturewicking material. The nofade sublimated graphics are available in four different colourways.

THORMX // $59.95 Inspired by the street, but built for the dirt. The Thor Prime Pro Baddy Jersey is the perfect blend of style of comfort for today’s motocross rider. With flat-stitched seams that minimize irritation and a tail silicone print to help keep your jersey tucked in, this jersey has it all.

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2. Clutch MX Pant FXR // $135.00 The Clutch MX pant is all-new for 2020. Focusing on performance and built to last, the pant combines triple topstitching, strategic stretch panels, 600D construction, and reinforced inner knees with an aggressive grip. The Clutch MX line delivers unparalleled value with no compromises in performance.

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PANTS 1. Legion LT EX Pant FOX // $169.95 The all-new Legion LT EX Pants are designed for serious offroad riders – those who demand a great combination of functionality and durability for all day on the trail. The unique multi-functional design combines rugged materials with practical functionality.

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3. 450 ANGLED PANTS (Scott) Importations Thibault // $199.99 The SCOTT 450 Angled Pant is all about lightweight and breathability. The pant features a mix of lightweight and breathable panels combined with durable abrasion resistant nylon. Buffalo leather knee reinforcement is specially shaped for an aggressive riding stance.

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IMPORTATIONSTHIBAULT.COM

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4. 450 PODIUM PANTS (Scott) Importations Thibault // $199.99 The SCOTT 450 Podium Pant is all about lightweight and breathability. The pant features a mix of lightweight and breathable panels combined with durable abrasion resistant nylon.

Buffalo leather knee reinforcement is specially shaped for an aggressive riding stance.

IMPORTATIONSTHIBAULT.COM

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5. 350 DIRT PANTS (Scott) Importations Thibault // $139.99 The SCOTT 350 Dirt Pant combines tough construction with new materials and articulated fit. It has strategically placed stretch and vent panels for comfort no matter how intense the race gets. In addition, these pants feature leather inner knees backed with 900-D Nylon for added durability as well as ribbed spandex in the knees to accommodate knee braces.

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6. 350 SWAP PANTS (Scott) Importations Thibault // $139.99 The SCOTT 350 Swap pant combines tough construction with new materials and articulated fit. It has strategically placed stretch and vent panels for comfort no matter how intense the race gets. In addition, these pants feature leather inner knees backed with 900-D nylon as well as ribbed spandex in the knees.

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7. RACER BRAAP PANTS Alpinestars // $159.95 Designed to match the Racer Braap jersey, these pants include a stretch insert on the knee and heavy polyfabric reinforcements for increased durability.

These lightweight pants include dual waist adjustment pull-tabs for a safe and personalized fit. Available in four distinct and aggressive colour combinations.

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8. WHIT3 LABEL ARCHIVAL PANT SHIFT // $109.95 The Shift Archival limited edition pant features the old school Shift wordmark on upper legs with the iconic bars logo on knees. WHIT3 Label pants give you more of what you need and less of what you don’t with a focus on flexibility, ventilation, and durability.

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9. Enduro Pants (Scott) Importations Thibault // $219.99 The SCOTT Enduro Pant delivers all you expect and need from an Enduro pant: Durable chassis, directly injected, reinforced knees for an extra layer of protection, dual zipped vent panels and much more. If you are looking for functionality and design this is your must have.

IMPORTATIONSTHIBAULT.COM

10. Sector Youth Pants Thor // $89.95 The Sector pants are designed for function and affordability.

With features like a pre-curved shape, TPR, mesh liner, stretch panels, and moisture-wicking material you’re sure to stay comfortable. Multi-stitched abrasion-tolerant polyester and nylon provide enhanced durability and the included padding in the knees for enhanced protection.

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11. PRIME PRO BADDY PANTS

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THORMX // $169.95 With a removable interior hip pocket and inner waist silicone band, the 2020 Thor Prime Pro Baddy Pants are the perfect modern day race pant. Tried and tested by Cooper Webb, these pants are stylish as well as extremely durable.

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OIL & LUBE

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2. High Performance Foam Filter Oil

1. Chain Lube Aerosol

Lucas Oil // $8.99 Lucas Foam Filter Oil is a unique low solvent, medium viscosity formula designed to penetrate the filter media and trap dust, dirt and sand while improving air flow. Because it has a slight tackiness it stays in place throughout the service life. Its water proof formula helps block out moisture and water. Will not clog foam filters even in colder temps.

Lucas Oil // $7.99 Lucas Chain Lube-Aerosol is a semi-synthetic spray lubricant designed to meet the severe demands of today’s high performance motorcycle chains and sprockets. It provides excellent rust and corrosion protection as well as outstanding water resistance and is designed to penetrate deeply into the pins and bushings of the chains.

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4. Slick Mist® Speed Wax

3. Semi-Synthetic SAE 10W-40 / ATV/ UTV Engine Oil Lucas Oil // $7.49 Lucas Semi-Synthetic SAE 10W-40 High Performance ATV/UTV Oil is formulated with an exclusive additive package that is not found in other brands. It contains a high level of detergents and dispersants to resist sludge and varnish formation. The oil is formulated to lower engine temperature and raise oil pressure, reduce noise and increase performance.

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Lucas Oil // $8.49 Lucas Slick Mist® is a unique speed wax developed to quickly detail your car, motorcycle, ATV, truck, boat and airplane, and leave your paint with a showroom shine. Slick Mist® is used by professional auto show vehicle detailers and racing professionals who demand the ultimate performance.

Lucas Slick Mist® is designed to be used on wet or dry surfaces.

5. Lucas Oil Complete Engine Treatment

LUCASOIL .COM/ P R O D U C T S/A P P E A R A N C E PRODUCTS

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Lucas Oil // N/A Lucas Complete Engine Treatment is a unique formulation that cleans and lubricates multiple systems in your motorcycle. When added to fuel, it cleans and lubricates all components from the fuel tank to the cylinders. It removes deposits, protects against corrosion and helps the fuel burn more completely, which helps lower emissions and improves fuel mileage.

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6. Lucas Oil Complete fuel System Renewal Kit

7. Lucas Oil Slick Mist Detailing Kit

Lucas Oil Products // N/A The Lucas Complete Fuel System Renewal Kit is your all-in-one system maintenance solution. Just follow the four easy steps to eliminate gum, varnish, particulate matter and corrosion from all lines and components. This Renewal Kit restores maximum power and efficiency to your engine for a smooth, reliable ride.

Lucas Oil Products // N/A Lucas Slick Mist Detailing Kit contains everything you need to make your vehicle showroom ready. Each kit comes equipped with one (1) bottle of Interior Detailer, one (1) bottle of Tire & Trim Shine, one (1) bottle of Speed Wax, a microfiber towel and one (1) bottle of No Mess! Tire & Trim Applicator.

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8. SC1 High Gloss Coating Maxima Racing Oils // $10.50 SC1 High Gloss coating is formulated to protect and beautify surfaces such as plastic, vinyl and carbon fiber. It’s safe for use on plastic, gloss or matte finishes and it’s excellent for use on plastic fenders, wheel wells and components.

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BIKES

1. NAIL TRAIL E Marin Bikes Canada // $4,199.99 The Marin Nail Trail E hardtail is for mountain bikers who need a boost, either to cover more distance in a shorter amount of time or to go farther than they might be able to accomplish on their own. Built around 27.5+ wheels with modern geometry and no compromise components it’s sure to open new horizons to riders. Available at royaldistributing.com

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9. Chain Care Combo Kit Maxima Racing Oils // $27.95 Cleanup, MPPL, and Chain Wax are a winning combination proven to increase horsepower and extend chain and sprocket life.

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2. SAN QUENTIN Marin Bikes Canada // $1,079.99 The San Quentin is for the aggressive hardtail trail rider looking for a blend between singletrack capabilities and extended air time. Available at royaldistributing.com MARINBIKES .COM

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3. Rift Zone 3 11. Red Line Oil 10. Air Filter Maintenance Combo Kit Maxima Racing Oils // $17.95 AIR FILTER MAINTENANCE COMBO KIT is the convenient way to clean and oil your foam or fabric air filter with ease. The 2 pack contains: AIR FILTER CLEANER aerosol spray and FAB-1 spray-on air filter oil.

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Roost Factory Hoosier Offroad // $21.99 Red Line Oil is dedicated to producing the best oils for the racing industry including a full lineup of motorcycle oils for all your needs.

Red Line offers superior film strength through the use of ester base stocks for protection and ring seal along with extended drain intervals over other brands due to higher quality base stocks and excellent dispersants.

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Marin Bikes Canada // $3,449.99 The Rift Zone is our most speed oriented MultiTrac bike,created for the rider looking for the speed and roll over capabilities of 29” wheels in a trail capable package. Long, low and slack trail geometry is more aggressive than an XC race bike for more control at top speed, and more fun while chasing seconds. Available at royaldistributing.com MARINBIKES .COM

4. Wolf Ridge 8 Marin Bikes Canada // $6,559.99 The Wolf Ridge is the ideal mountain bike, having finally achieved the promise of riding anything and everything. The no-compromise Naild R3ACT-2 Play suspension redefines what full suspension can be with plush, ground-tracing suspension along with unparalleled pedaling efficiency. Available at royaldistributing.com MARINBIKES .COM

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TIRES

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1. Geomax® MX53

2. Geomax® Enduro EN91

3. Trailmax® Mission

4. Elite® 4

Dunlop Motorcycle Tires // $53.96 Introducing Dunlop’s next generation intermediate-to-hard terrain off-road MX tire: the Geomax® MX53 features an all-new tread pattern on both front and rear tires. Designed to offer more performance in a wider variety of terrain, the MX53 excels in hard-packed track conditions while also offering greater versatility in intermediate riding conditions.

Dunlop Motorcycle Tires // $144.73 Dunlop expands its line of DOT street-legal adventure tires with the addition of the Geomax Enduro EN91. Designed to tackle a wide variety of off-road terrain, the EN91 was originally designed for Europe and is now available in the U.S. with significant improvements. It offers excellent performance and durability for long-distance rides and racing.

Dunlop Motorcycle Tires // $197.83 Dunlop’s Elite 4 premium touring tire offers great performance and outstanding mileage, and is available in sizes to fit hundreds of different motorcycles dating back to the early 1980s. Now Dunlop has added a 200/55R16 rear size as an aftermarket option to fit 2018 and newer Honda Gold Wings.

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Dunlop Motorcycle Tires // $188.33 The new Dunlop Mission 50/50 adventure tire offers premium performance on the street and dirt.

Rugged tread blocks feature Staggered Step Technology that provides additional biting edges off-road for more grip. Wrap-around sidewall lugs help prevent punctures and add cornering grip. New compounds provide excellent mileage—up to twice what competitors offer.

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5. GEOMAX EN91 (Dunlop) Importations Thibault // $57.99 A new pattern to enhance sand and mud traction and offer more nimble handling. “Tilt Crown Blocks” (TCB) on the rear tire help to provide higher grip on rocky terrain.

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6. K774 IBEX (Kenda) Importations Thibault // $123.99 Designed for Endurocross and extreme enduro-type conditions.

Super-soft and flexible rubber compound for maximum bump absorption and terrain compliance for obstacles like rock gardens and log crossings.

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7. BATTLECROSS X10 (Bridgestone) Importations Thibault // $139.99 New-generation Battlecross X10 for sand terrain: superior traction developed on the race track with top competition riders, now available for everyone!

I M P O R TAT I O N S T H I B A U LT. C O M

8. Hoosier STI Rear MX 9. Hoosier Offroad Roost Factory Hoosier MX Tires Offroad // $172.99 The 110/90-19 ST1 is optimal as a rear tire for sand tracks and muddy racing conditions.

The 110/90-19 has a unique tread pattern that will allow the tire to be used in sandy and muddy conditions but also will still perform in intermediate conditions. This tire helps get the holeshot but will still perform at a high level in multiple conditions.

H O O S I E R - O F F R OA D . C O M

Roost Factory Hoosier Offroad // $124.99 Hoosier Offroads’ new lineup of motocross tires are racing in to the hands of riders who are looking for an advantage on the track. With a range of sizes and compounds they’ve got everyone from Amateur to Pro covered. These tires are proudly made in the United States and guaranteed to live up to the Hoosier Racing Tire slogan, “Tires Designed for Champions” H O O S I E R - O F F R OA D . C O M

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PARTS

6. ARMADILLO PIPE GUARD (Polisport)

Importations Thibault // $39.99 Provides protection to the frame from roost, rocks and the rider’s boots. The durable design makes these very grippy for your boots and are easy to install.

Importations Thibault // $108.99 Made of dual compound, a blend of stainless steel and elastomer to increase levels of protection.

Elastomer compound reduces vibrations and noise and are resistant to high temperatures.

IMPORTATIONSTHIBAULT.COM

IMPORTATIONSTHIBAULT.COM

1. PRESTON PETTY 2. PRESTON MX FENDERS PETTY MX (Polisport) NUMBER PLATES Importations (Polisport) Thibault // $73.99

3. PRESTON PETTY 4. KLR HEADLIGHTS REPLACEMENT (Polisport) PLASTICS Importations (Polisport) Thibault // $140.99

Each fender will still have the Preston Petty “Guaranteed Unbreakable” 1 year warranty just like Preston offered. Each fender will also have the oval Preston Petty Product decal on the fender and an extra in the box. Each fender will have the same original wording and logo as Preston had; “MX FRONT” and his “Preston Petty Product” oval logo.

These have the Preston Petty logo cast into them just like the originals did.

You can have the headlight number plate halogen version with sealed beam unit 12V 35W, wires and a clear protective lens. If you want something different, you can have the LED version. You will not be able to tell the difference from ours and an original made in the 70’s.

IMPORTATIONSTHIBAULT.COM

5. FRAME PROTECTORS (Polisport)

Importations Thibault // $16.99 Our brand-new Preston Petty oval number plate is injection moulded just like the originals along with the famous Preston Petty logo!

IMPORTATIONSTHIBAULT.COM

IMPORTATIONSTHIBAULT.COM

Importations Thibault // $119.99 Polisport releases the KLR 650 replica plastics.

Now, the parts for one of the most popular Dual-purpose bikes will be available exclusively through Polisport. The quality and the standards used in the production of these parts are the same Polisport uses in its offroad replica plastics.

7. FORTRESS SKID PLATE (Polisport)

8. MELLOW MX GRIPS WITH DONUTS (Scott)

Importations Thibault // $39.99 Highly durable and resistant injection molded part. These offer full coverage of the engine and frame rails.The Mounting kit developed for a simple and quick installation.

Importations Thibault // $19.99 The SCOTT Mellow Grip is a double density grip with a Vario Blok design surrounding a firm density core. The soft density Vario Blok pattern offers good grip and helps reduce arm and hand fatigue. Grip donuts that guard against abrasion and thumb blisters are included as well.

IMPORTATIONSTHIBAULT.COM

IMPORTATIONSTHIBAULT.COM

IMPORTATIONSTHIBAULT.COM

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ULTIMATE GEAR GUIDE

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STANDS AND COMPONENTS

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1. BIKE STAND KIT KTM // $112.79 High quality plastic stand designed especially for KTM offroad bikes.

Complete with mud removal tool, exhaust plug and magnetic bolt pan.

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K T M . C O M /C A - E N /

2. Matrix LS1 Lift Stand Matrix Concepts Canada // $139.99 This is the stand for everyone from mini rider to the everyday rider to the professional racer.

Easy to transport and store. Easy to use. The easy access 2 point “POWER PEDAL” makes it easy to operate.

M AT R I XC O N C E P T S . C A

3. Rabaconda 3 Minute Tire Changer

4. MX GRIP (TOXIC)

Importations Thibault // $129.99 Roost Factory Hoosier The MX GRIP Moto Offroad // $499.99 Transport System Are bloody knuckles, stress, securely holds your and back and knee pain motocross bike in your supposed to be part of the tire trailer without the use changing experience? It may of tie-down straps, floor seem that way. That is until anchors or wheel chocks. you use a Rabaconda 3-Minute It takes an enormous Tire Changer! The Rabaconda amount of pressure off is without a doubt the quickest of the fork seals during and easiest way to change transit, and it frees up your tire! It is race tested by valuable space allowing top riders and factory teams the transport of more across the globe. motorcycles or gear.

H O O S I E R - O F F R OA D . C O M

IMPORTATIONSTHIBAULT.COM

5. 12 Sport 6. GET SMART 7. DS440 SILICONE Honda Balance SOS HOUR METER SHINE (AUTOSOL) Importations Bike (Athena) Thibault // $16.99 Strider // $159.95 Building on the worldwide success of the original STRIDER bike, the Honda licensed STRIDER balance bike enables children as young as 18 months to begin their love of all things two-wheeled.

CA . STRIDE RBIKES .COM

Importations Thibault // $119.99 Made in Italy, the GET Smart SOS is the brandnew product that is both a settable SOS alarm and a wireless engine hour meter in one. This device features an internal accelerometer which detects when the bike falls and is down for a set amount of time and sends an SOS notification with the GPS location to your selected contacts.

Dry Shine has pushed the limits even further by creating a brand new formula, the DS440, a super hydrophobic high-gloss sealer. This new formula facilitates the cleaning process by simply rinsing all surfaces.

IMPORTATIONSTHIBAULT.COM

IMPORTATIONSTHIBAULT.COM

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12. WP Pro Components

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Blackfoot Direct // $2,698.00 WP Pro Components are the ultimate way to take your bike to the Factory level. The championship winning XACT Pro Forks and XACT Pro Shock will give you the performance and control you have always dreamed of. The full lineup of WP Pro Components along with revalves, rebuilds, and setups are now available in Canada at Blackfoot Direct.

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15 8. 185 Pc Metric & SAE Hand Tool Set in a Hand 9. Mac’s Tie 10. Ready-To-Use 11. Wössner Carry 3 Drawer Downs Utility Air Filters pistons Racing Oils CVTech-AAB // Metal Tool Box Cam Pack 1” x 6’ Maxima // $10.95 Starting at $181.99 Roost Factory Hoosier Offroad // $1,104.00 BOXO’s goal is to provide all consumers with High Performance, High Quality Products you’ll be proud to use and own for a lifetime. Tool Set Includes: 1/4” & 3/8 drive standard & deep sockets w/ratchets, extensions & accessories. 5/8” & 13/16” spark plug sockets. 1/4” bit set w/ drive adaptors. 8 Pc screwdriver Set, 4 Pc pliers, 20 Pc wrench set and more!

Roost Factory Hoosier Offroad // $110.99 At more than twice the strength of most big-box store offerings, Mac’s Utility Pack is a light-duty ratchet strap pack offering maximum quality, versatility, and value. This pack is great for tying down motorcycles, ATVs, tool boxes, and other items up to 1,000 pounds. Each Ratchet Strap features Mac’s new smooth-acting “EZ-Release” ratchet.

Made in the USA.

HOOSIER-OFFROAD.COM

HOOSIER-OFFLOAD.COM

Ready-to-Use air filters are made of fused dual-stage, open-cell foam. Open pore outer foam layer allows for maximum airflow, while the more dense inner layer foam ensures filtering protection from dirt, fine sand and dust.

Dual-stage design resists filter plugging and airflow blockage. Packaged ready-to-use.

MA XI MAU SA .COM/ R E A DY-T O - U S E - A I R F I LT E R S/

Wössner pistons are entirey developed in Germany by qualitfied engineers who understand the importance you give to engine performance. The material used in these forged pistons makes them more resistant and ehances your engine’s performance.

CVTECH -A AB .COM

DIRECT-SUSPENSION.COM

13. Sunstar MXR1 415 Works Chain Sunstar // $34.95 Sunstar’s Works MX/ SX race chain is a premium quality, highly durable non-sealed chain perfect for any MX 50cc bike. Strong, lightweight construction with the same TripleStar treated ultra-hard pins.

100% heat treated components for strength and durability. Comes in gold/gold finish with clip type master link. Tensile strength 4,300 available in 108L length.

SUNSTAR-BRAKING.COM

14. YZ 65 Works 15. Sprocket JT TripleStar Self Cleaning Aluminum Rear Importations Thibault // TBA Sprocket MX-series steel front Sunstar // $61.95 Works TripleStar Aluminum rear sprocket - featuring hard anodized coating for extra strength & durability. Made from 7075-T6 aerospace grade aluminum for light weight with mud grooves at the base of the tooth area on the front side only. Together with our tooth-valley design, this allows for up to 50% more chain roller contact area, leading to longer life.

sprockets (identified by the number SC) are manufactured to exacting tolerances and designed with special self-cleaning grooves for added life and performance. Made from the best chromoly steel and fully heat-treated for maximum durability.

IMPORTATIONSTHIBAULT.COM

SUNSTAR-BRAKING.COM

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THE INSIDE LINE

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

WITH ANDY WHITE

PHOTOS BY JAM E S LISSIMOR E

CAN ANYONE TELL ME WHO THE BEST FRENCH CANADIAN MX RIDER IS TODAY THAT IS STILL RACING FULL TIME? I DIDN’T THINK SO.

MONTREAL MEMORIES I WAS WORKING ON SOME IDEAS FOR WHAT I WAS GOING TO BE WRITING ABOUT IN MY NEXT ARTICLE WHEN A TEXT MESSAGE CAME IN FROM A GOOD FRIEND SAYING THE MONTREAL SUPERCROSS HAS BEEN SHELVED FOR THE 2020 SEASON.

I

thought to myself, wow, that’s not good for our industry! The marketing company Gestev basically brought it back to life two years ago after it was M.I.A. for the six years prior. I was a little surprised some company would invest into an event that faded away eight years ago. Now, I am not the first to say that I was excited to hear that the Montreal Supercross was back on the schedule a few years ago. I knew it would need a big cash investment to get the fans to come out like they did back in the early 2000’s. I just went on the Olympic Stadium website and they actually have attendance stats going back to when the stadium was built. If you are not old enough or you lived in another country the past 43 years, the Stadium was built for the 1976 Olympics. The stadium holds 66,000 fans in total. Believe it or not the Montreal

Supercross had 61,000 fans attend in 1985 and 54,000 in 2006. Those are solid numbers for a race that was not part of the AMA Supercross series.

Who were the riders that fans showed up to cheer for back then? Well, it was mostly Canadian riders on the list with some pretty good US riders and a handful of Europeans. There was no Chad Reed or Ricky Carmichael or even Bubba Stewart on the rider list way back then.

How did the promoter fill the stadium so many years ago? Well, it’s no secret in my view. There are a few factors on how to get the fans to spend their hard earned cash. Let’s look at some facts first. The event was not just supercross bikes, it also had ATV riders. I would say 90% of the ATV riders were from the province of Quebec. Those riders didn’t live in downtown Montreal, I can tell you that! Then we had the buggy class.

They were a metal frame dune buggy with a VW engine in the back. Somehow these were pretty popular back then and these racers loved to send it on the jumps. You were guaranteed some type of massive pile ups on the track.

The next item was the 6-year-old that was dad and mom sponsored of course.

These kids would race on the track and it was like watching pee wee kids in a hockey game...cute and entertaining.

Then you had the freestyle guys. You can’t forget them. That’s a pretty jampacked evening for entertainment.

But what about the special ingredient to the recipe? The event is in Montreal, and the locals all speak French, remember? The Quebecers are a very motorsports-driven bunch. They just plain love racing! Now if you have some French speaking riders that are at their prime that can possibly win the event you have yourself a chance to make this event successful. Can anyone tell me who the best French Canadian MX rider is today that is still racing full time?

I didn’t think so. Looking back a few years, you had the JSR / Marco Dube battle. Before that you had the Carl Vaillancourt days and before that you had the Grégoires, Arnaud Bernard, Pierre Cuoture, and Mario Paquette days. How about the Canadian Champion Roller-

ball Ross Pederson? Yes, he is English speaking, but he would race four or five times a year at races in Quebec.

I remember one year when I was in the stands for the final. The gate dropped and three Americans were out front, and by the halfway point there was no way a local French Canadian would make the podium. I looked around and the stadium was half empty.

Another factor to be considered here is that the kids of today have way more options in front of them than when I was a kid. I didn’t have an iPhone back in 1985 to be glued to. I could go on and on, and I know you have heard it over and over. The cost of dirt bikes is pretty high today, I will confirm that. Then there’s the cost of fuel and transporting the bikes and the family to an area where you can ride without some landowner freaking out on you, or someone complaining that dirt bikes make lots of noise and smells like gas. Oh man, I am getting a headache just thinking about it. If you have never ridden a dirt bike you need to get out to a trail bike rental company and get out there and have some fun. Bring the kids and layer them up in bubble wrap and send them out on the trail. I bet they would come back with a big smile.

I am sorry to hear the supercross event is not on the schedule for the near future. It’s really a shame because so many of us have such great memories of that event. Yes, I even raced it as a young pro racer. I would tell all my friends and family I was racing the Montreal Supercross. It was a huge thrill to race in front of fifty thousand plus fans. I would get so nervous sitting on the starting line, just looking around, seeing the stands full of fans.

I thought to myself, “Okay Andy, this is the time to show the fans you are a supercross champion!” Oh, to be young again!

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MAXIMA AD ProPlus 10W40 2 CHAMPS MXP NOV2019.qxp_Layout 1 10/16/19 9:20 AM Page 1

TWO CHAMPIONS, ONE OIL ADAM CIANCIARULO MONSTER ENERGY PRO CIRCUIT KAWASAKI

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COLTON

FACCIOTTI’S

t n e m e r Reti arty P P H OTO S BY DA N S TE N N I N G

I

t’s not often that we in Canadian motocross get to celebrate and honour the career of our sport’s elite riders. So many times over the years a top rider will decide to retire from full-time racing. While it will make the news, we’re left to reminisce to ourselves about that rider’s past accomplishments. Thankfully, this time was different as Derek Schuster and the GDR Honda crew put together a rather large retirement party for 6-time 450 Canadian Champion Colton Facciotti.

The party took place just up the road from the Gopher Dunes track inside Frank Schuster’s massive shop. There were tables set-up with catered food and drinks, multiple models of Colton’s race bikes from over the years, jerseys and other memorabilia hung up on the walls, plus there was a group of invited guests ready to honour the career of one of Canada’s best riders ever. Even Colton’s parents, as well as the man responsible for Colton’s fitness, Todd Schumlick, flew in from British Columbia. It was a fun evening and a terrific way to send Colton Facciotti off into the peaceful world of retirement. To help celebrate that evening, here are some Dan Stenning photos from this special party. Happy Retirement Colton and thanks for the memories!

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Congratulations to Colton Facciotti, Dylan Wright and the entire Honda Canada GDR Fox Racing Team for their victories on the track and another great season.

Colton Facciotti, 1st, 2019 450 Motocross Champion on the CRF450R

Dylan Wright, 1st, 2019 250 Motocross Champion on the CRF250R

CHAMPIONSHIPS

Speak louder than words.

Photo credit: James Lissimore

Always wear protective clothing when operating your Honda product. Please respect the environment. Obey the law and read your owner’s manual thoroughly before operating your Honda Product. Model images and specifications subject to change without notice. Visit honda.ca for additional safety information.

honda.ca

HondaCAN_19.05_ad.indd 1

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Photo: R. Schedl

ELECTRIC RACING REVOLUTION KTM SX-E 5

The new age of motocross has arrived. The KTM SX-E 5 is a high-end, electric-powered mini crosser for young riders aiming to be the next motocross superhero. With adjustable power and seat height, this revolutionary model is perfect for pure beginners and experienced racers alike.

KTM wishes to make all motorcyclists aware that they need to wear the prescribed protective gear, only start the electric vehicle for the first time after receiving a high-voltage safety briefing from an authorised KTM dealer and always ride in a responsible manner in accordance with the relevant and 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.

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11/6/19 8:18 AM 2019-12-06 10:32 AM