MX Vice Magazine Issue 7

ISSUE 7 - MARCH 2015

FEATURED

TOMMY SEARLE

TOMMY SETS HIS SIGHTS ON RETURNING TO THE TOP

FLYING THE FLAG

A LOOK AT SOME OF BRITAIN’S EMX250 CONTENDERS

THE SOCIAL SURGE

SOCIAL MEDIA HAS CHANGED THE SPORT, BUT IS IT BETTER? ADAM STERRY - ROCKSTAR ENERGY HUSQVARNA - ELLIOTT BANKS-BROWNE

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WELCOME There are many debates that will never be solved in our sport. Which series has the fastest riders, MXGP or AMA? Should the pros be riding two-strokes or four-strokes? However, one thing that every fan can agree on is the fact that the winter months suck. Rain puts a stop to most riding and there really is not much action to follow, although that has gotten better in recent weeks thanks to the Monster Energy Supercross series.

We don’t need to worry about that anymore though, as by the time that you have sat down to read this issue of the MX Vice magazine, the season will be in full swing, with outdoor races going on around the world. It is going to be a great year for us fans, with all kinds of stories to follow. Villopoto vs. Cairoli will be the big one, of course, but even the Maxxis British Championship is wide open.

Following the announcements regarding the teams that would be shutting up shop at the end of last year, most were worried about what our premier domestic series would look like this year. However, thanks to some foreign imports, it is looking more competitive than it has been for quite some time. The superpole is gone too, so there are plenty of positives!

Once the Maxxis British Championship and MXGP season is underway, we’ll be providing our usual live tweets and much more; we have some great things in the pipeline that will boost your interest in British motocross! But, before that, you’ve got another edition of this magazine to get through and, as usual, it is packed!

There is a bit of everything in this one, as always, with coverage from around the world.

If you love to read, you’ll find in-depth features on the Rockstar Energy Racing Husqvarna team in the USA and how social media is used within our sport. We also caught up with a handful of the British riders who will be racing the EMX250 series this year, and got their take on the series that has really come on leaps and bounds. Of course we also had a long chat with the cover star, Tommy Searle, too.

Lewis Phillips

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FEATURES THE COLUMNISTS 14-16 TOMMY SEARLE 20-27 FLYING THE FLAG 32-39 THE SOCIAL SURGE 42-47 ROCKSTAR ENERGY HUSQVARNA 52-59

CONTRIBUTORS

Lewis Phillips James Burfield Jordan Chaney James Dunford Jon Bolton Stefan Paetow Mark Turner James Lissimore

Simon Cudby Ian Barrow Stefano Taglioni Red Bull Content Pool Garth Milan KTM Images Husqvarna Images Rutger Pauw

Cover Image: KTM Images/Stefano Taglioni

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HOT

OR

NOT

HAWKSTONE INTERNATIONAL: The Hawkstone International is a staple on the European motocross calendar and never fails to disappoint when it comes to supplying us with brilliant racing.

However, the 2015 edition of the event may have been the best in quite some time. Not only was there a bumper crowd of fans who braved the freezing conditions, there were also some great battles for the lead that went down to the last lap. You don’t see that too often!

Most were concerned when the much earlier date of February 8th was announced, but clearly there was nothing to be worried about.

DEAN WILSON: Our issue six cover star, Dean Wilson, made his much-anticipated full-time 450SX debut at the beginning of January.

However, the expected results failed to materialise at the first couple of rounds due to arm pump. The Scotsman had just started to turn things around and picked up an eighth at round three, but he was then dealt a crushing blow in the week following that as he tore his ACL and MCL. Unfortunately that means he won’t be back on track for a few months, and now has to wait another year to fulfil his potential on the bigger bike.

COOPER WEBB: The Star Racing Yamaha team is on a roll! Before the Monster Energy Supercross series went east, Cooper Webb captured four wins at the first six rounds and, consequently, holds a comfortable points lead heading into the final few rounds. Even a shoulder injury couldn’t prevent him from extending his advantage at the head of the field. With his unrivalled aggression and raw speed, most have him tipped as a favourite for the outdoors already…

ELLIOTT BANKS-BROWNE: MX Vice columnist Elliott Banks-Browne hasn’t had much luck since moving up to the 450F at the beginning of last season. Again he finds himself on the injured list through no fault of his own, after a very aggressive Thomas Ramette t-boned him at one of the Arenacross UK rounds. Consequently EBB is facing a recovery that is expected to take a couple of months and his 2015 season is in tatters before it has even begun.

BEHIND THE DREAM: After becoming extremely popular last year, most were very excited for the new season of Behind the Dream.

However, it soon became apparent that Troy Adamitis (the creator of The Great Outdoors, Inside the Outdoors and the first season of Behind the Dream) is not behind this series and, consequently, the quality has suffered. Although it still provides an insight into what goes on behind the scenes, it is a shadow of its former self; most fans have been extremely vocal about that.

STAT SHEET hours

the MX Vice team spent in a car during a week in California.

574

5000 copies of the sixth MX Vice magazine were handed out. 0 were left.

miles the MX Vice team covered during that same trip to the USA.

8

previous race winners will contest the 2015 MX2 British Championship.

Suzuki rider has scored points in the 2015 250SX West series.

3 years

KEVIN STRIJBOS: The Belgian has had a spectacular start to the year with impressive rides at the pre-season internationals. Kevin was on top form at Hawkstone and absolutely dominated, before taking pole position a week later at Valence in completely different conditions.

By the time you read this you will know whether he kept the ball rolling through the first couple of MXGP rounds, but he certainly looks strong at the time of writing.

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it has been since Yamaha last won a 450SX main event.

previous GP winners will be contesting the MXGP series this year.

Suzuki riders have scored points in the 2015 450SX series.

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VICE VOICE BOX By the time that you read this the MXGP series, which is undoubtedly the most hotly anticipated championship in years, will be well underway. Fans around the world will be glued to either their laptop or TV to see who comes out on top. Will it be Ryan Villopoto or Antonio Cairoli?

Can someone else steal the crown? At this early stage, we wanted to find out whom you’re tipping to win the title, so we asked you this question...

Question: Who do you think will win the MXGP title this year? Cairoli?

Villopoto?

Someone else?

Adam Keefe (Facebook): Ryan Villopoto; then Paulin, just as long as he can stay consistent.

Cairoli’s been pretty inconsistent lately.

Danny Cleal (Facebook): Cairoli, as there seems to be no stopping him at the moment. Yes, Villopoto does seem to be a threat but all the more reason for Antonio to win; he will love the challenge and I can’t wait to watch. @Couch_Racer (Twitter):

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Every time I attempt to make a prediction I have to give up, which can only be a good thing.

Just hope injuries don’t decide it!

Christian Bridges (Facebook): Ryan Villopoto, because he is the boss! Although it would be nice to see Cairoli take it home for Europe! @Pat458Strana (Twitter): There’ll be multiple winners, but my main hope is nobody gets injured.

Let’s have a stacked season all year long. @MX_Phreek (Twitter): I’m rooting for RV to win. Someone different to win it, and I love watching him ride – all aggression.

Rae Oram (Facebook): Ryan Villopoto, because he has come over to the MXGP to prove he has what it takes to win!

Scott Morley (Facebook): I don’t even care. I just want to see these guys give it their all every weekend. Call it a cliché, but the true winners are you and I for getting to witness this go down.

I’ve never been so excited about an MX series in all my years of following the sport, and that includes the Carmichael/Stewart years. @SpencerWills (Twitter): It’s very hard to decide, which makes for a very exciting season! Yesterday I thought RV, today I think Cairoli, tomorrow? @Rynner8 (Twitter): It’ll come down to the start of the season.

If Cairoli wins the first couple of GPs, I can see RV riding over his limit and getting hurt! Can’t wait. @Oss27MXTraining (Twitter): Neither Villopoto or Cairoli. Yes, I agree they will be the fastest, but I can see crashes and injuries

taking place.

Elliot Phillips (Facebook): I think Ryan Villopoto will. He’s consistent and knows how to win championships! @LittleChrisCam (Twitter): Those two [Villopoto and Cairoli] have to be favorites, but rather fancying Desalle, Searle, van Horebeek and Simpson to mix it up a little at the end.

Alex Allen (Facebook): I think it will be Ryan Villopoto. He has said it himself; the MXGP racers don’t do an eighteen round supercross series, and then race a season of motocross. So I think he will win on fitness and determination, but it will be close with the regulars as they have track knowledge. But, go team GB!

Who is California Imports exactly? I’m sure that a majority of you have asked that question when you have seen the name pop up on social media, or when you stumbled across the double page advert in this very magazine.

Well, we decided that it was time to enlighten everyone and find out more about the new company, so we contacted Ed Warren to fill us in on what it is they do exactly and how it came about…

“Whilst I lived in California with Tommy Searle for a few years, and worked for KTM, I met Mick from CMH (California Motocross Holidays) and since then I have stayed and ridden with him. I learnt more about how he works whilst spending time with him. For instance, when the bikes that are used in his business have reached the end of the season, he then sends them back to the UK to sell. He was telling me where he buys his bikes, which were all

of the ex-team bikes etc. He only needed one or two for CMH, so I saw the opportunity and decided that I would buy the rest and then send them back to the UK with his used bikes.

“I flew out and met all of the team and did the deals, and actually came away with thirty-five bikes.

I learnt all about importing and everything that is needed to make this happen, and now I basically bring the bikes to the UK market and work alongside UK shops, which is where you can buy the bikes.

I quickly realised that there is a large demand for these bikes.

“It is something that is not a one off, and we will certainly do it again.”

I’m sure that, like us, most of you have looked at the pro’s bikes either here or in the USA and wished that you could own something similar. Well, California Imports are giving everyone that unique opportunity.

Currently they have Pro Circuit Kawasaki and Geico Honda replicas, to name a few. We’ll learn more about them and their bikes in an upcoming issue of the MX Vice magazine.

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The Columnists

The TheColumists Columnists

ADAM STERRY Winter prep is in full swing as I write this, and as we draw closer to racing, I’m a lot better prepared physically and mentally. I’m just generally feeling the best I’ve ever felt going into a season.

My winter preparation started with a trip to the team’s workshop in Holland to do some testing and start with some base conditioning on the bike. It was good to get the feet wet again and to start blowing off the arm pump. I have to say, Matt, our engine mechanic, has done a great job on my bike. The first spec I tested out there was a massive improvement on what we had last year!

I also started working with my new mechanic, Martin. It is my first time having a full time mechanic, so it was weird to start off with, but we’re the same age so we get along great. I’m not sure what Dad will be doing this year; he’ll be twiddling his thumbs at the races or something!

I also started work with Alan Milway, who coaches Rachel and Gee Atherton on the physical/nutritional side of things. So, through the winter, most Mondays I have been down at Birmingham Uni putting the work in with him. This is the first time I’ve had someone take care of my physical training one hundred percent. Everything is more precise and I have no doubts about anything that I’m doing.

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Another part of my winter was to head off to Spain with my coach and the other pro academy riders for the RMJ Academy boot camp. It was nice to get away from the snow and the cold weather, and head to Spain to get some solid hours of riding in. I made improvements on my weaknesses and, although I was sick of hard pack by the end of it, it was a good trip! We put in a lot of hours of riding over there, so I was pretty beat up by the end of it.

What are my plans for the next few weeks? I will be racing a few international races before the start of the season, my first one being Hawkstone. Hawkstone is a local one for me and is a track that I like a lot. I’m even more pleased that it’s back on the Maxxis British Championship schedule.

I will also be racing Valence and La Chapelle, where the team and I will be heading over to France and Italy for a couple of weeks of testing and to do a photo shoot, so that should be fun. It’s a pretty good time of the year, as all the fresh kits and stuff arrive. It’s like Christmas again!

By the time that I write my next column the 2015 season will be underway – it’s going to be here before you know it!

I hope to see you all at Hilton, but until then ride safe and have fun! #811

LEWIS PHILLIPS The Californian dream is one that most of us share, as the thought of countless tracks, glorious weather and multiple professional races taking place relatively close seems to good to be true. We [MX Vice] recently spent a week out there and, honestly, it is a different world.

The fifth Monster Energy Supercross round, Anaheim 3, was the main focus of our trip. We’re always looking to spread our wings and cover as many different events as possible, in order to understand the strengths and weaknesses of each series and gain a better understanding of the sport we love. I had been to an AMA Supercross round before, but it was Anaheim 1 back in 2007 and I was twelve years old. Obviously everything has changed quite a bit since then…

When you are sat in the UK and watching the races live at 4am on a Sunday morning, everything seems much more spectacular. But, in the back of your mind, you always wonder whether it is just a case of the grass looking greener on the other side. Well, for the most part, it is greener.

The whole thing is a show, really, from the second you step foot into the pits at midday to the time the final chequered flag falls. Some may shrug that off, but it doesn’t take anything away from the racing. It made it clear that Monster Energy Supercross is a big deal (which it is, obviously) to the general public and outside sponsors. That is certainly a battle that everyone faces and, right now, it seems like the teams in the USA are starting to overcome that.

In my opinion, the teams just seem to get things right. Obviously there is a lot more sponsorship and money at their disposal, but the activation in the pits is really quite impressive. That is something you can’t truly understand until you are wandering around in person; there are so many different activities and ways that teams have managed to get their sponsors out there. This is obviously having a positive impact, hence why companies like Jimmy Johns (RCH Racing Suzuki) and Wienerschnitzel (JGR Yamaha) are now involved. Although that may have something to do with the fact that Carey Hart and Joe Gibbs are behind those particular teams.

It would be great to see teams in both MXGP and at a domestic level branch out with their pit presence, but it is so hard to do, and even that may not be enough, as most ‘outsiders’ refuse to even glance at the sport on this side of the Atlantic. You certainly notice how much more popular it is stateside, as you pass Monster Energy Supercross billboards whilst driving along the freeway and constantly hear about the series on different radio stations.

Anyway, what else did we do on our travels? Obviously we visited all of the typical hotspots for motocross fans, like Pro Circuit (I could stand in there looking at their championship winning bikes for hours), Chaparral (which always blows my mind), the test tracks and Troy Lee Designs to name a few.

Eventually it was time to return to the cold English weather for the Hawkstone International, where we were treated to racing that was just as good as what we saw one week earlier at A3. No matter where you are in the world, brilliant racing is all you want to see.

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The Columnists

ELLIOTT BANKS-BROWNE What’s up? So, this is my first blog of 2015. Where does time go? I hope you’ve all had a great start to the year, and you’ve all got big plans to make 2015 better than ever.

I’ve obviously got a lot to talk about, but I’ll try to keep it short and sweet. I’ve changed bikes, as you all know, and I love it – it really is one of the best bikes I’ve ridden. The team is awesome too and are so focused on giving me the best bike I could possibly have rather than the bullsh*t that most of the teams are worried about nowadays.

The arenacross series started off pretty rough for me; I knew my speed and everything was good, but things just didn’t go my way. I think maybe I was trying a little too hard and made silly mistakes that cost me, but I learnt from them and managed to get a win in Newcastle.

Newcastle is a pretty cool place, and I actually met my girlfriend there. To win there was amazing, especially considering it was the day before my birthday. That’s back-to-back birthday wins, as I did the same last year in Liverpool. To win was such a relief, as it felt like it was never going to happen. I couldn’t have been happier for everyone involved; Rob’s had a rough few years so to win for him was truly amazing.

After those awesome few weeks I was obviously on a high and full of confidence. Glasgow was next on the list for the arenacross series, and everything just went horribly wrong. One week you’re on such a high, and the next the lowest of lows. So, what happened there?

The day had been going great; I was the fastest in my first qualifying session. I had a small crash in the second, but nothing bad; it put me fourth on the line. In heat one I got an okay start and just rode around for third really. In heat two I got the holeshot but on lap two I cased the step off and crashed, which was stupid. I made it back to fourth

though, so I was straight through to the main and the head-to-head races, which is where it all went wrong.

The first head-to-head was against Coulon. I like racing him, as he is fair and clean. We had a good battle and I came out on top, so that meant I was up against his teammate (and the championship leader) Thomas Ramette in the second one. He chose the inside gate and I went far outside, which may have looked strange but I had a plan. I squared him off out the gate and went up the inside.

I think that pissed him off a bit, so in the next corner I took a slightly tighter line than the racing one to protect my line. That didn’t really matter though, as wherever I was he had no intention of turning. He nailed my leg and, consequently, I broke my tib and fib quite badly, so I was taken to Glasgow hospital to have a rod put in my tib.

I am pretty gutted about the whole thing, as you can imagine. It could have easily been avoided, and I’m even more pissed off that no action was taken against him for such a dirty move that could have potentially been career threatening.

My aim is to be back racing for my local race at Blaxhall in the summer. It’s quite far away, but my leg will take time and then I need to get back to riding and testing. I want to feel good before I race and won’t come back until I’m one hundred percent. I have amazing people around me with Red Bull, Harris and Ross Physio and my girlfriend, which helps massively.

That’s all I’ve got for you. Thank you so much for all your messages and kind words whilst I have been hurt, it means a lot. I could keep going on but I’m not sure how many of you would carry on reading my dribble for much longer!

Keep the cables tight guys! #44

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TOMMY SEARLE Following some difficult years in the premier MXGP division, Tommy Searle hit the reset button and now enters the 2015 FIM Motocross World Championship ready to thrive in his new surroundings...

MX Vice: Heading into this season you have a new team, a new bike and a fresh start...

Tommy Searle: Everything is new this year; bike, gear, the team and also my approach to the season.

MX Vice: How different is the start of this year compared to 2014?

Tommy Searle: This year it has been completely different compared to my usual approach to the season. The biggest change for me is that I have been based in Italy for the past four months and living out of my motorhome. Being here in Italy with the team through the off-season has given me the opportunity to ride with my team, rather than by myself. I’m riding with an eight-time world champion [Antonio Cairoli], who has been consistent throughout his career, every day and I know it’s helping me.

MX Vice: What about the change of team manager? How has that been?

Tommy Searle: Claudio has been brilliant; he’s nice to work with and very dedicated. It’s his life; also his wife is working in the team and his son, Davide, so it’s very family-orientated. He oversees everything and also helps a lot with the technical aspect.

“ I didn’t just want to be given a bike and left to train on my own, like the previous seasons. ”

MX Vice: It sounds like you have someone with passion in your corner?

Tommy Searle: I think for Claudio it isn’t just a team, like I said it’s his life. He has no distractions, like running a business; he just focuses one hundred percent on the riders and making sure we’re happy, but at the same time makes sure we’re doing the work. He watches everything and knows when it’s necessary to make changes and when we need to just get on with the job. I’ve been in Italy for four months and there has been just one day that Claudio hasn’t

been at the track with us.

MX Vice: So what are some of the biggest differences that you have noticed so far with this team?

Tommy Searle: The atmosphere here is great; it’s a nice place to be and very positive. At KTM a change happens with Claudio talking to Pit, and the next day a decision is made. The support I have behind me now is pretty phenomenal and my bike is a bike that has won championships.

MX Vice: What other offers did you have at the end of last season?

Tommy Searle: I had factory Kawasaki and we were talking with others, as you do. The Kawasaki one was good, as it was full factory with KRT, so the support and products would have been great. Then when the KTM deal came up I wanted to take it, as I wanted more support.

I didn’t just want to be given a bike and left to train on my own, like the previous seasons. It was the whole package that attracted me to KTM over the other teams that were offering me a deal.

MX Vice: So have you opted to ride the 350F? Is that the bike that suits you best?

Tommy Searle: At the moment I want to ride the 350; it really suits me. I know the 450 is a good bike, but when I rode the 350 it just suited me straight away. The option was there; I could have rode the 450. Claudio made it clear that he wanted me to ride both bikes to make sure I was happy. But after I took the 350 out, I didn’t want to ride any other bike.

MX Vice: With the greatest respect, living out of a motorhome doesn’t seem too rock-and-roll?

Tommy Searle: There is nothing rock-and-roll about the past four months! From the outside it may seem we have this amazing lifestyle, but the past four months I’ve literally been living out 23 | MX Vice - March 2015 - Issue 7

of this camper in Italy. I’ve been pretty much on my own; my girlfriend comes out when she can, and it’s always nice to have her here, but I have been working hard everyday with the team. I’m not moaning, it’s part of the job and there are worse places to park your motorhome. But I’m not walking down a catwalk in Italy every night and hitting up expensive restaurants and nightclubs!

MX Vice: So, what are you enjoying about Italy compared to being at home?

Tommy Searle: The weather is obviously good; we’ve been riding in temperatures of around twenty degrees, so we have got a lot of bike time in. It’s great having people to ride with everyday, as I mentioned, as in the UK I have to ride on my own a lot.

The food is really good also!

MX Vice: What’s a typical day in Italy for you at the moment?

Tommy Searle: The main part of the day is riding (or racing with Tony and Ken!) and then afterwards I see how I feel to train or relax, then I either go and get some food with the mechanics or cook for myself. We all play football once a week, where we rent a pitch that’s a bit bigger than half a football pitch. I played a bit in school, but not much because I’m rubbish. Tony gets into it though, so if I’m on his team I have to put some effort in - he doesn’t like to lose!

I’m on it though. I went and bought some boots today – it’s getting serious!

MX Vice: It sounds like a great place to be based…

Tommy Searle: Yeah, its very mellow and there’s no stress at all over here. It’s ride, train, recover, eat and relax everyday.

It’s nice for me to be able to just focus on myself and make sure I’m giving it one hundred percent. At home there are a few distractions, as I have a house that’s being built. I have the stress of making sure the plans are right, builders are on site and this and that, so when I’m over here I’m away from it all. I just ride the bike.

MX Vice: With the package that you have, what are your goals and targets this season?

Tommy Searle: I just want to keep going the way I have been and keep improving like I

24 | MX Vice - March 2015 - Issue 7

have done over the past couple of months. It’s really been good; I’m healthy going in and I’m happy. There are some very strong riders in the championship with Tony Cairoli, Ryan Villopoto and Gautier Paulin, but the way I feel I’m there with them!

For me it’s all about enjoying it and, with the people behind me, I think I can do well.

I need to get on the podium and work from there. I’ve not had a podium for the past two years in GPs but, at the same time, I don’t think I have had a bike that could have got me on there.

MX Vice: So with the bike and your setup, do you think you will be putting too much pressure on yourself?

Tommy Searle: No. At the minute, as I said, I’m enjoying riding the bike. I don’t think there is any pressure on me from myself or anyone else. I’ve got a good bike now and I’m enjoying being at the races a lot more.

MX Vice: We are used to seeing you pop up at the Maxxis British Championship now

and again.

Will that be the case again this year, or will the British public only see you at Matterley?

Tommy Searle: Maybe, I don’t know yet. I think if I asked Claudio and explained that I want to race, he would probably say yes.

The problem is that last year I did Whitby, and everything went well, and then I did another round at FatCat, which was great practice, but on the last lap I jammed my thumb and that made me miss a couple of GPs. It was a stupid injury and now it’s only just gone after all this time, so for me it’s a case of, you know, is it worth it? I love being out there with the British fans, but I would rather concentrate and get a win at

Matterley for them.

I have to make sure I have a break. The GP calendar is increasing each year, so making sure I rest and let little injuries heal is going to be the key. At the same time, if I need to, the British championship is the first place I will go to get some race time under my belt.

MX Vice: So you’re not ruling that out, but obviously GPs are your priority…

Tommy Searle: Exactly, I will just see how things are going and if there is a chance then we’ll make it happen. The Italian Championship is a good example; it benefits me to get ready for the season.

But you’re already into the season by the time the British Championship starts and sometimes you’ve already done eight or nine races. Do you want to go and

do another race or come back down to Italy and ride with Tony and Ken where practicing with them is like racing anyway?

The fact is I will probably be better off doing that than racing three twenty-minute motos. The only nice thing about doing the British Championship is getting to race in front of the British fans – that’s the only real benefit I get out of it.

MX Vice: How are you training in between races this year? Is it very different to previous years? Are you training yourself, so to speak?

Tommy Searle: I am. Before I came down here I did a little bit, then I went away on holiday to Dubai and I knuckled down out there and I trained a lot. Then I had two

weeks at home and trained with my friend Kirk Gibbons; he’s a great guy, who really understands what I need, so it’s great to work with him. He’s a really upbeat person, so for a rider it’s nice to be around him. I get to train with a few of my friends also, like Alex and Sam Lowes and the other boys.

I train back with the team, but I still call up Kirk every now and again and do things with him. I’m twenty-five and I’ve been training for a few years now, so I feel I know my body, what it needs and what I need to do to get the best out of it.

I learnt a lot about myself during my year at Loughborough University. It was very different there, I learned a huge amount and it also helped give me a base fitness coming into this year.

25 | MX Vice - March 2015 - Issue 7

“At the minute I feel very confident, very happy with the team and I’m enjoying it, so it would be great to extend past this year.”

MX Vice: So with Loughborough, Kirk and your current team, you are feeling good?

ride with Tony and Ken. It’s important to ride with them, rather than pounding out laps on my own.

Tommy Searle: Yeah, I’m feeling great. Last year I was off the bike a lot so I invested a lot of time into training, to make sure when I returned I was as fit as I could be. I trained more last year than I’ve ever done in my career and it’s given me a head start coming into this year.

I’ve been riding most days and Claudio’s a big fan of getting time on the bike rather than killing yourself in the gym and then not being able to do your motos.

So I’ll probably be spending a lot of time over in Belgium throughout the year, but I’m also doing my house up in England and there is a lot of renovation going on, so I like to check in.

MX Vice: With this move to KTM, can you see why Tony Cairoli is eight times world champion?

Tommy Searle: Yes and no; it’s not like they’re working miracles down there. It’s a very solid programme. It’s a very tight, organized team that is more like a family. Everybody is very close to Claudio and gets along very well; they listen and work well with each other. Tony is very headstrong so he doesn’t let much get to him, and when it comes down to racing he’s just a very, very good racer.

I think there are other riders that have rode for Claudio that were very good, but Tony is just on another level. It takes a special rider to come and win eight world championships.

It’s not a case of you come here and you can instantly be world champion – it comes down the rider.

MX Vice: So, what’s happening next for you? Will you be staying in Italy?

Tommy Searle: After Qatar we’ll come back to Italy, then we’ll go to Argentina and after that we have to come back to Italy again. After Trentino I’ll then go back to England and the rest of the team will head up to Belgium, as they have a base up there. I’ll be in England for a little bit, but then I will get over to Belgium to 26 | MX Vice - March 2015 - Issue 7

MX Vice: So is that a Tommy Searle cribs style place?

Tommy Searle: Yeah, it’s pretty special. I’ve got like twelve acres, an old farmhouse, a cottage and outbuildings. We’re just building it all into a brand new modern house. It’s very pretty, and will be a very nice place to live. I have a track being built there too, so it is ideal.

MX Vice: So that is the Tommy Searle retreat, the place where you can chill out when racing life is over?

Tommy Searle: It’s also an investment, something I’ve always wanted and dreamed of having. When I finish racing I’ll move down by my family back to Kent, as I want to be by them. I have lived away from home since I was fourteen.

It will hopefully be completed in time for Christmas. Until that point I will be living out of my motorhome in different countries!

MX Vice: Is it too soon to look at next year, do you have a multi-year contract?

Tommy Searle: It’s a one-year contract, but I’m really happy here and the bike suits me. You could probably talk to most people and they would say everything is great, but then you hit the races and you get a much better perspective of everything. At the minute I feel very confident, very happy with the team and I’m enjoying it, so it would be great to extend past this year.

MX Vice: It’s all change with your sponsors this year, can you tell us about your support?

Tommy Searle: Yes, everything is a team deal and everyone has the same with Axo clothing, Sidi boots and Airoh helmets. The Sidi boots have really surprised me; I can’t believe how comfortable they are. I do have 100% goggles as a personal sponsor, along with Ady Green.

MX Vice: So are you still looking to grow your sponsors?

Tommy Searle: Yeah, for me, I need to raise my profile, work on my results and have a solid season.

I would love to start working with some great brands, as I know I have a lot to give; I have a great fan base, which I’m super proud of. I think that once I start winning GPs I will then start to attract the right people. You only have to look at the sponsors Tony has pulled into the sport; he even has his own Nike football boots with his name and number on!

I’m working with a new web agency called Burfield too, who are helping me with my social media, website and digital profile. These are all the things you need nowadays to give companies a great return, as well as performing on the bike too.

MX Vice: We know the agency well! Good luck this year, you have the whole of the UK behind you as always.

Tommy Searle: Thank you – see you all at Matterley!

Interview: James Burfield

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FLYING the FLAG The EMX250 series has become a popular series for younger riders who are hoping to, one day, make it to the highest level.

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STEVEN CLARKE

Unsurprisingly a handful of young British riders take part in the championship each year, and 2015 will be no different. But what is it that makes the series so appealing to these guys? We caught up with a handful of the riders to discuss the series and their expectations heading in.

MX Vice: With your injuries over the winter, what has your prep been like for the series?

Are you going to be fine at round one?

Steven Clarke: I’ll be one hundred percent by then for sure. It’s been a bit tough really, because it wasn’t just a shoulder injury; I had a hairline fracture in my hip as well. But it’s all going well. I rode yesterday for the first time, and my shoulder felt pretty good. It’s a shame I had to miss out on so much riding and racing, but these things happen.

What was it that drew you back to the EMX250 series this year? Obviously you won it last year, so what else do you want to achieve?

Well the reason I raced it was because it is such a prestigious championship. I thought that if I won that, I would be able to get a good deal for this year (2015). After winning it I spoke to a few people, but nothing too serious came up. So I had no team or deal, so my Dad and I made our own team up with the sponsors that are on board (Apico, Husqvarna etc). The plan is to obviously race the British Championship, but I’ve never got to keep a championship that I won. So after not having a ride, to try and win the title again and keep the number one plate seemed like a cool idea. Seeing as I’m making my own team, this seemed like the easy option as far

as the budget goes too.

What kind of support will you have compared to what you had during the EMX250 series last year?

I was on a Dyer and Butler KTM last year, but that was only for the British Championship.

We did all of the European rounds on our own back with my mechanic, Stu Summers, and my Dad in a Sprinter van. This year, when I was organising everything, I made sure that the budget would cover engine rebuilds, travelling etc. It’s an investment

“It would have been perfect for me to race MX2 this year to further my career, but I can’t do that” we’re willing to make, because we had so much fun last year. It brought the joy back into racing. It took us a day and a half to drive to Bulgaria for round one last year, but we had a laugh the whole way. I’m hoping it’s going to be just as fun as last year, and no one on the starting line will have a bigger smile than me with that number one plate.

What do you think of the series? Are you a fan of it?

I think it’s great! For the amateurs coming up

it’s a perfect stepping stone to go into the MX2 class. But that leads me back to the age limit rule – MXGP is the only series that has an age limit rule for the MX2 class. It’s bad for me, as I moved to America at an early age and started my career over there.

It would have been perfect for me to race MX2 this year to further my career, but I can’t do that. For me EMX250 is great, as I can race without having to worry about an age limit. It would have been nice to race MX2 though, as I feel I would have been a good candidate for a team.

So are you hoping that your EMX250 results will eventually lead to an MXGP ride?

Yeah, that’s the plan. This year my main focus is to try and retain the EMX250 title, but also I want to be a contender in the British Championship. I’ve raced in America and done pretty well over there, won the EMX250 title and the next page on my résumé needs to be filled with some British Championship results. I’m from England and I’ll always live here and come back here. Those two championships are my main goal this year, and hopefully with my results it’ll land me an MXGP ride, which is one of the last things in my career that I need to check off the list.

ADAM STERRY MX Vice: You could have followed a few others ands stepped up to MX2 this year, why was the decision made to stay down in EMX250?

Adam Sterry: My best offers were to do EMX250 for one year, and then move into MX2 in year two, so there was that. You have to go into MX2 with a bang also, as you can be forgotten about too easily in our sport. I’m doing three GPs this year anyway, so that will be quite good for preparation to go into MX2 next year.

What are your thoughts on the series as a whole? How much has it helped you progress?

The series is awesome. Most weekends it’s the best race to watch with forty riders all pretty close. People underestimate how hard that series is! It’s helped me improve a lot! To get better you need to race faster people and that’s exactly what that championship has done for me. It’s got more depth than the British, so you’ve always got someone to battle with. If you get a bad start you make a lot of hard work for yourself.

LUKE NORRIS

Obviously your goal is to pick up the title this year. What is it that you need to improve on to put yourself in a position to win?

You honestly need to be consistent, like in any championship, but more so in the EMX series! If you’re consistent you will win the championship. It’s not that I need to improve my consistency; it’s that I need to limit the mistakes, but sometimes you can’t control that. I need to improve my starts as well. I got good starts last year, but not as many holeshots as I would have liked.

You’ll be competing in more EMX250 rounds this year. Why have you decided to try and contest the full series?

Luke Norris: I was lucky enough to get some new sponsors for this year, which helps us with the financial side of racing. That will allow me to do the whole series, which I’ve been unable to do in the past. It’s also better from a championship point of view not to miss any rounds, as it’s so hard to make up lost points.

Of all the rounds, which one do you look forward to the most?

Matterley [Basin] is one I always look forward to! An awesome track and it’s a home race.

The EMX250 series is quite different to the British with less, but longer, races. Do you have to prepare differently?

Which championship is your main focus?

I actually prefer the European layout. You get more time in between the motos and race day isn’t just a massive rush! Not really, I do my work in the week and by the end of the week I’m ready to race, EMX or British. Both are just as important to me, but if I had to choose it would be the EMX250, as they’re bigger races with more people watching. Also, if you want to excel in this sport, the world championship is key and the EMX is a stepping stone to that.

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It must be tough for a rider like you, with a family-orientated team around you, to compete around Europe?

“If I had to choose it would be the EMX250, as they’re bigger races with more people watching.”

Yeah, it’s definitely tough, but we all love it and I’m extremely lucky to have family who support me through everything. Without my family and all the sponsorship that I get, I wouldn’t be able to do it! The European races are like a holiday for us and it’s a great way

to visit places we wouldn’t normally see.

What is your main goal, our domestic series or the EMX250? How do you prepare for both? They’re obviously very different series...

Personally I think GPs are where everyone wants to be and the EMX250 is a great step to get there. I want to do as well as I can in the British Championship, so I’ve got my mind set on both. Being with the ‘RMJ Pro Academy’ this year is helping a lot and helps my structure of riding during the week, so I know that come the weekend I’ll be ready.

The races in the EMX are only five minutes longer, so I’d normally just do longer motos during the week to replicate the races on the weekend.

What are you hoping to take from the series?

Raise your profile? Experience? Put yourself in line for a ride?

Ideally I’d like to get myself a ride at the end of the year, but I’m just focusing on one race at a time and giving it all I’ve got. The experience of riding alongside the best riders in the world is amazing and it’s great to see how I compare to the top GP riders. Another thing is it’s great for exposure, as the races can be watched live and get noticed a lot more.

With regard to results, are you going in with any expectations? You’ve shown that you can be a consistent points scorer...

I definitely think I can be a top ten guy. I’ve been working my backside off during the winter and I feel like I’m in a much better place compared to last year. I just need to get the starts every race and ride like I know I can.

NATHAN DIXON

MX Vice: What is it that inspired you to contest the EMX250 series this year?

ROB DAVIDSON

Nathan Dixon: Well, it’s another step up and I’ve always found that if you throw yourself in the deep end, you’re more likely to be pushed forward and dragged along by the best. It’s also the next stepping stone to the GPs, which is where I would primarily want to be next year or the year after.

They’re the best riders in Europe, so it’s good to be out there.

You competed in a handful of rounds last year, right?

We went to five European rounds, I think it was, and we had bike problems at three of them so we didn’t qualify. When I qualified in Spain it was a whole new experience though.

What we realised is that the European boys are amazing in qualifying but when you get to the race they struggle a little bit. Whereas we excel in the racing more, because of all the race time we get over here.

So, as a rider, are you looking to follow the path that Ben Watson and Adam Sterry have taken?

Yeah, I saw their riding come along as soon as they started to do it. Adam started to do it pretty young, and he improved quite quickly. Ben did it for two years and struggled the first year, but was winning in the second year.

It brings you along a hell of a lot – those two have proven that.

Are there any particular tracks or rounds that you are looking forward to this year?

I’m really looking forward to doing Valkenswaard; I really like it there.

I like Spain too, because it’s where I first qualified. I’m really looking forward to those two rounds and Kegums, after seeing it host the MXoN last year. It’s sandy as well, and I like that.

Would you say that is one of your strong points then, heading into the season?

I have been a really good sand rider through my youth career, mainly because of my technical ability.

But this off-season I went to Spain for a month after my injury, so I’m a good hard-pack rider as well now. It’s looking really good for the championship, as I’m not primarily a sand rider anymore.

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MX Vice: You’ll be doing the full EMX250 series for the first time this year. Why did you make that decision?

Rob Davidson: Yeah, we decided to do the EMX250 just to get some experience at the GPs and really take my racing to the next level. I’ve been thinking of doing them for a couple of years and have never got around to pushing the boat out and committing to it, because of the expense. It’s a really big ask for my family and I. I’m not on a big team and I don’t have a ride for the EMX250 rounds, so we are having to do everything ourselves. But all I can say is we love the challenge and the harder it is the better I will feel with the end result!

Of all the rounds, which tracks are you looking forward to the most?

It’s hard to say really, as I haven’t been to any of the tracks apart from Lommel. I really can’t wait for Latvia, as I went to watch the MXoN there and it looks unreal!

You’ve made the switch to Husqvarna this

year. What kind of support do you have compared to last year?

I have changed bikes, and I’m really getting along with it well. I don’t have any support through Husqvarna, I am getting all my help from Hardcore Racing (Roland Shaw) and that’s whom I am racing for in the Maxxis British Championship. For my European racing we will have to do it ourselves more or less, as the budget from the team doesn’t push that far. I have a couple of other people from last year helping me out with that, like my old team boss Mark Woodage at MJW. Roland will have my bikes race ready for me and put a super package together. I’ll just be running out of my own camper with a couple of people’s help so it should be all good!

During the off-season, have you been planning your preparation around the EMX250 series, or is the British still your main goal?

It’s not too bad getting ready for the EMX250 and Maxxis [British Championship] at the same time. The races aren’t too different,

but time-wise we tend to do thirty-five minute motos when we go training. I go and train during the week with Ed Bradley doing all my fitness, mental and motocross training. We have a really good programme going on up here and training with Ben Watson means we’re always helping and pushing each other though the week!

What are your expectations for the EMX250 series? Do you have any specific goals?

For the EMX250 I want to be in the top ten for sure and pushing into the top five. I feel with my training and progress over the last couple of months, I should be there. With the help from the guys who are behind me I know I have the right equipment, so that’s where I want to be!

I just want to thank everyone that has been behind me all the years, the people that have just started helping me out, my parents and Ed Bradley also – I couldn’t do it without them.

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THE

SOCIAL SURGE We have witnessed a great deal of change in the sport that we all know and love over the last ten years, from training programmes through to bikes right across to tracks and television coverage.

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All of these have obvious effects, but one I’m keen to focus on is social media. It is easy to forget a time without Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube. Was it a simpler time?

Yep. Better? I’m not so sure.

Motocross is very different to ‘traditional’ ball sports (football, cricket, tennis, rugby etc.) for a whole host of reasons; the first is accessibility. Whereas you can purchase equipment to compete in the aforementioned sports, we’re in a very different position. With kit, bikes, transport, and everything else you need to go racing, it becomes very expensive and relatively inaccessible. What does this mean? Participation is lower and, as a result, so is interest. Ball sports are very accessible, and everyone likes to be able to relate to what they’re doing.

So, you’re still with me? Good. Now, this brings me closer to the point, it makes it much, much harder for the casual fan to get a real understanding of exactly what goes on behind the scenes and how top riders achieve success. Ten years ago a casual fan may have had no idea of the testing and training that goes on behind the scenes. Even the most dedicated fan isn’t going to know that Ken Roczen is out testing, or that Adam Cianciarulo has spent four hours on his road bike, but that’s where social media comes in.

Athletes across all sports use it to enhance their profile, build fans and ultimately tell the world what they’re doing (and which sponsor is paying the bills), but in our sport it’s even more crucial. We’re able to gain a real insight into exactly what goes on behind the scenes, which is where motorsport as a whole really struggles. It’s always been an issue, even more so as the sport grows and a larger fan base shows interest. We’re now at the stage where you have to queue up and get a ticket several hours before an autograph session, to then be allowed to queue up later in the day to briefly meet your hero.

Just take a look at the James Stewart scenario.

We’re all aware of it and I’m sure everyone reading this has an opinion, but right or wrong he’s been suspended for sixteen months. What turned out to be fascinating is the reaction we witnessed across social media. Unsurprisingly, outrage immediately ensued. Our small little sport exploded with opinions, comments, tweets, posts and images. James himself put up several very interesting posts giving an insight into his side of the story, which is equally interesting and we’ll get onto that later.

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Without mentioning names, a couple have “lost it” and posted really inappropriate responses, which not only belittles fans but could also prove to be a real issue for sponsors.

Fans across the world raged with fury, with the majority (based on some stats we have here) on James’ side. Within two days the hashtag #FreeBubba had over seven thousand posts on Instagram, with support coming from all different angles (fans, super fans, fellow riders and Eric Sorby). Did it change anything? Nope. Did it make James feel better? I’d say that is very likely. Did it save him from losing sponsors? We’ll never know the answer to that one, but I’d be willing to go out on a limb and say it probably did.

James has made the decision to rejoin us once the ban has been lifted and, judging by the statement below, the social outcry was a large part of that decision…

“To my fans, I’m not going to lie; after receiving this devastating news last Friday, I was honestly contemplating retiring. I felt like I couldn’t fight anymore – this situation has taken a toll on me. But the support from you, the fans, this last twenty-four hours has had me nearly in tears. Reading the comments and seeing all the overwhelming letters, signs, shirts, etc. has made me ready to fight and show you, the fans, and my sponsors what you deserve. Thanks to all of you – I’m gonna be around for a long time to come.”

We’ll move swiftly on to our next point – the voice that social media gives riders. Ten years ago, motocross (and sport) as a whole consisted of one main media channel, the press.

Information came from two sources (press releases and industry contacts), which meant news didn’t always come out in the format it should have.

By that, we mean incidents with misinformation, on-track accidents that ultimately came down to a journalist’s decision, mechanical issues etc. – the list goes on. Now? It’s a very different story.

Riders and teams have an open forum to post exactly what went on. They’re able to put across any points they have, discuss it with fans and some even use it to apologize to other riders. It’s dramatically changed the industry, and Chad Reed is a prime example of this. We all know he wasn’t too happy during his last year at Honda, and his social channels showed that. It’s allowed us to get an insight and make an informed decision; instead of simply relying on what we read, which is fantastic.

complaining. Fans have direct access to riders and often hurl abuse at them if a rider has acted in a way that they don’t like. That’s social for you, but that doesn’t make it right. Most of these users wouldn’t even dream of speaking out in real life, let’s be honest, but the Internet adds a layer between the two, meaning it’s a real issue. That’s no different to any other sport or celebrity, but it doesn’t make it okay.

When these issues get further out of control, riders then respond, which is a very dangerous situation.

Without mentioning names, a couple have “lost it” and posted really inappropriate responses, which not only belittles fans but could also prove to be a real issue for sponsors. It’s a touchy subject. On the one hand they should be able to voice an opinion, but that doesn’t mean slating a user on a public forum is acceptable.

This has drawbacks too, of course.

One, which I’m briefly going to cover, is the level of education within the sport. As a result of the dedication and travel involved to make it to the highest level, riders are often home schooled or leave education as soon as they can. Grammatical errors are rife, consequently, which ultimately isn’t acceptable on a global scale.

We’re trying to draw in external sponsors and showcase multi-national brands, and that’s an area I feel we need to work on.

Here at MX Vice, we’ll openly admit that we’ve taken on social in a huge way. Alongside our fan pages, we use a whole host of social listening tools to keep an eye on what’s going on – it’s a really valuable tool for us.

Social media drives a lot of traffic to our website, enables our fans to voice exactly what they think (features in this very magazine are based on it) and ultimately improve the quality of information we’re able to produce.

We’re huge fans and love the progression the sport has made.

Another thing that isn’t always welcomed is the insults, whining and

Words: James Dunford

#SocialMediaFTW

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Following a decade-long hiatus from the American supercross scene, Husqvarna sent shockwaves through the industry at Anaheim 1, the opening round of the 2015 Monster Energy Supercross series.

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Both Zach Osborne and Jason Anderson captured second place finishes in their respective 250SX and 450SX classes, a feat that has not been completed since both Gunnar Lindstrom and Gary Semics finished on the podium for Husky back in 1972.

Since then, it has been a long road to success for both Bobby Hewitt’s Rockstar Energy team and Husqvarna, a brand whose glory days shone the brightest before many of us were born.

Those glory days for Husqvarna began back in 1959, when Swedish-born

rider Rolf Tibblin rode his Husqvarna to the brand’s first ever world motocross championship. Tibblin’s success that year kicked off a twentyyear long period of prosperity for Husqvarna, which included fourteen world motocross titles and twenty-four European enduro championships, solidifying the brand as the most dominant manufacturer during the 60’s and 70’s.

During that period, superstars like Brad Lackey, Torsten Hallman, Danny LaPorte, Chuck Sun, Malcolm

Smith and Gary Semics all rode for Husqvarna. Prior to Jason Anderson’s podium at A1, the brand’s last podium in the premier class took place thirtynine years ago in 1976 with Kent Howerton.

Following several well-documented decades of decline that took place well into the 2000’s, Husqvarna was purchased by KTM in early 2013.

Just like that, Husqvarna had a brand new home once again, only six years removed from being acquired

by BMW from Cagiva MV Augusta.

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The experience provided by the Rockstar Energy Racing team and the resources available from the Husqvarna brand are priceless

Similarly, the parent brand KTM went through a rebirth of its own in the USA not too long ago under team manager Roger DeCoster.

Prior to his hiring at KTM, there had been very limited success in AMA Supercross from manufacturers located outside of Japan. The Japanese manufacturing giants of Honda, Yamaha, Kawasaki and Suzuki have largely dominated the supercross landscape over the past several decades, claiming over thirty years of consecutive supercross championships in every class thanks to the likes of Hannah, Stanton, McGrath, Carmichael and many more. Most were unsure whether an outside manufacturer would ever be able to find the resources and leadership to challenge the almighty ‘big four’ in supercross.

Several teams were put together in the early 2000’s in an effort to gain a foothold in the American motocross scene. The Cannondale project produced a four-stroke machine that was light-years ahead of its time conceptually but, unfortunately, it was overweight and plagued with reliability issues. Another venture was the Fast by Ferracci Husqvarna team, which jumped into the supercross scene around the same period of time as Cannondale.

Ferracci were able to make a huge splash in the US motocross scene when they signed two-time national champion Steve Lamson.

The hiring of Lamson was a surprise to many, because he was also being offered his own deal from American Honda during the same off-season. To everyone’s surprise, he ultimately chose to ride for the upstart Husqvarna team.

Other top riders that joined the Fast by Ferracci crew included Chris Gosselaar, Jason Thomas and Travis Preston. Unfortunately, neither the Cannondale nor the Fast by Ferracci ventures were able to move past their infancy and eventually led to failure in the US market.

There was one glimmer of hope that shone through for the Husqvarna brand, despite their eventual failure, when Travis Preston took the overall win at the Houston supercross in 2001.

Whilst Preston was running in second, Grant

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“It is also our daily reality to win this championship for Husqvarna.”

one whilst also doing well in supercross?

Definitely not. The company has made a huge change since the buyout with KTM, and I think it is going to continue to build and get better and better.”

Langston threw away his lead after going over the handlebars while fist pumping to the crowd, handing Fast by Ferracci Husqvarna their first and only supercross win. Since that first victory taken by Ferracci, the biggest breaks for Husqvarna since Preston’s win appear to be both the the hiring of KTM team manager Roger DeCoster and the acquisition of the Husqvarna brand by KTM. DeCoster’s hiring has completely revitalized the KTM brand in the United States and allowed Husqvarna to have an immediate impact when they rejoined supercross in 2015.

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The pairing of Husqvarna and the Rockstar Energy Racing team could not have occurred at a better time for both parties. While Husqvarna was busy recreating themselves under KTM’s watch, Hewitt’s squad was steadily building success and credibility as a major player in the 250F class. The Rockstar team has made many trips to the podium over the years, despite having varying degrees of factory support from year to year. Riders like Blake Baggett, Ryan Morais, Martin Davalos, Tommy Hahn and Ryan Sipes have all done their part to build a solid foundation for

Rockstar Energy Husqvarna to prosper from in 2015.

The steady growth and support of the team eventually culminated with a 250SX West championship last season, rewarding KTM during their first year with Rockstar Racing.

Jason Anderson was absolutely brilliant during that series and won four main events en route to the team’s first professional championship.

This major milestone has allowed Husky to rejoin the series in 2015 with something it has never had during the modern era of US

motocross and supercross; a championship calibre race team and all of the expertise that goes along with it. Zach Osborne echoed these thoughts: “At one point while I was in Europe, I had a chance to ride for Husqvarna, but it was the old Husqvarna, if you will. At that time it would have been the worst possible career decision I could have made, but now they have competitive equipment and we are putting the bike on the podium. Did I ever think it would be the way it is now and I’d be riding

The experience provided by the Rockstar Energy Racing team and the resources available from the Husqvarna brand are priceless to the development and success of a motocross team. Whilst the support garnered from KTM in 2014 was helpful and a massive step forward for the team, the new deal with Husqvarna will raise the level of competitiveness even further according to Zach: “The biggest adjustment from switching manufacturers is that when the team was with Suzuki they were buying all of their parts. Even last year with KTM, I think that they had good support, but now it is all in-house in the Husky building and they can basically fabricate whatever we need in the shop because there is not a big limitation on our budget this year.

I think the biggest adjustment from a team standpoint is that we finally have all of the resources that we need, want, and could ever

use. It isn’t a big deal anymore to go get or make a part if that is what we need to get faster.”

With all of the resources and management in place like never before, the next milestone for Husqvarna is to earn race wins and the coveted supercross championship. With the team’s immediate success and experienced management personnel now in place, it is clear that the team will have a legitimate opportunity to reach these goals in 2015 and beyond.

Now, it is up to the riders to put the iconic Husqvarna brand back on top of the motocross world that it once ruled over thirty years ago.

“It would be unbelievable for me to get them their first championship, and that is what they hired me to do. Now I feel like it is my duty to give them that, it would be a huge dream come true for all of us. Realistically though, it is where we feel that we belong. As dreamy as that is, it is also our daily reality to win this championship for Husqvarna,” said Osborne.

Words: Jordan Chaney

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