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Prime Stadium Eventos, promoters of the FIM EnduroGP World Championship, are excited to announce that its partnership with motorcycle accessories and clothing specialists Acerbis has been renewed for the 2024 FIM EnduroGP World Championship season. The partnership includes title sponsorship of the Acerbis GP of Portugal (Fafe), and the naming of the Acerbis Cross Test at every round of the 2024 championship.
Acerbis is a long-term supporter of EnduroGP and the leading Italian
manufacturer is well-known for its motorcycle accessories, which are popular throughout the EnduroGP paddock. Acerbis has solidified their commitment to the 2024 season, naming the cross test at each round, as well as the opening GP of the year in Fafe, Portugal.
Beginning with back-to-back rounds in Portugal, the seven-round 2024 FIM EnduroGP World Championship is set to be the most exciting season yet. Making stops in Italy, Slovakia, and France again this year, the
series will also make a return to both Romania and the UK.
Prime Stadium Eventos, promoters of the FIM EnduroGP World Championship, are pleased to announce an extension to the successful partnership with offroad motorcycle and bicycle parts specialist, Polisport, for the 2024 FIM EnduroGP World Championship season. The new agreement involves the naming of the Polisport Extreme Test at every round of the 2024 series, as well as title sponsorship of what will be known as the Polisport GP of Italy and the Polisport GP of Slovakia.
Polisport is a Portuguese company that specializes in providing accessories and parts for bicycles and off-road motorcycles. The brand is committed to supporting the sport of enduro and will be present
at EnduroGP races in 2024 through their partnership with the series, having named the extreme test and the GPs of Italy and Slovakia, and through their many sponsorships of leading teams and riders. EnduroGP is extremely pleased to continue this partnership, as Polisport is one of the leading brands in the off-road motorcycle world.
The seven-round 2024 FIM EnduroGP World Championship season kicks off on April 5-7 with a Portuguese double-header, beginning in Fafe then heading to Valpacos, as the world’s best enduro racers come together for another year to battle for world championship titles. As well as visiting Italy, Slovakia, and France, the series will return to Romania and the UK, two countries that have not hosted EnduroGP competition in many years.
courtesy of CPD
Central Powersports Distribution (CPD) is proud to announce an agreement with R-Tech Plastics of Italy to distribute plastics, and off-road accessories in the United States. R-Tech, is an Italian brand with a great vision for the future with newly announced Tenere yamaha Kits and soon to be available
Surron plastic kits! All of these new items along with their bike stands, handguards and the amazing retro plastic kits will be available in January of 2024 for dealers and retail.
R-Tech's "In Dirt We Trust" motto lives and breathes off-road. With a team of true motocross and off-road enthusiast, they work everyday-24/7 to produce the highest quality of products. R-Tech is a company of passion and hard work, giving the off-road community the best fitting OEM replica plastics on the market. While they may be new to the public, R-Tech is the plastic
company of choice for Pro Circuit Kawasaki.
R-Tech is one of the leading plastic companies in Europe, supporting teams such as Beta's EnduroGP team, Bud Racing Kawasaki, Fantic, Husqvarna's JET Zanarno, and Pro Circuit Kawasaki. They offer plastics for almost every EOM; Honda, Yamaha, Kawasaki, Suzuki, KTM, Husaberg, Husqvarna, GasGas, Beta, Sherco, and coming soon, Surron.
CPD’s Mark Berg is pleased with the new partnership, stating:
"CPD is beyond excited to be introducing R-Tech plastics into the USA for distribution and sales! R-Tech is at the forefront of quality plastic kits and motocross products, they deserve to be in the USA with a strong effort and we can't wait to work with them as a partner for the USA."
CPD currently imports and distributes notable OEM motorcycle brands such as Rieju, Electric Motion, SWM, and AJP, all while continuing to add more aftermarket off-road-specific brands to their growing portfolio. R-Tech is a great addition to the CPD family of brands already in distribution, including X-Grip, FunnelWeb Filters, S3 Parts, Viral Brand Goggles, and Trick Bits Protection parts.
Developed for Enduro, Baja, Motocross, and off-road, our Full Coverage Skid Plate is suitable for all types of riding. Created using composite impact absorbing plastic with silicone additives to reduce friction grab as well as a material design that allows for maximum frame flex.
Model specific form shaped to provide industry leading frame and engine coverage without using plastic welds on wings.
Extremely light weight compared to most other skid plates on the market
that reduces engine sound bounceback and rock noise compared to aluminum.
Linkage guard extension is integrated and not bolt on, to provide a smooth snag free surface. Includes a replaceable linkage wear pad attaching to the inside of the linkage guard.
Tested and used by KTM-RPM Racing, Coastal Racing, and AmPro Yamaha.
Current Price: $169.95
• Strong Aluminum Construction will hold up to more than Plastic.
• Covers vital areas of the motorcycle such as water pumps, oil filters, engine cases and Covers.
• Has side tabs that come up to protect the Frame Rails and Footpeg mounts.
• Vents in the wings let air flow through and mud fall out.
Current Price: $149.95
• Holes in the bottom to let you drain your oil without removing the plate.
• All installation Hardware is included.
• Linkage Guard available for this model. Part # 31-5117
• Works with or without crash bars
Part Number: 24-8322
• 100% polyester
• Indelible sublimated graphics
• Straight cut
• Lycra cuffs
• Hemmed edging
• Sizes available : S - 3XL
• Lycra fabric allowing a perfect fit on the body and perfect elasticity
• Stretch aramid inside the knees
• Sublimated fabric for unalterable color resistance
• Pocket inside the pants to integrate protections (supplied)
• Product developed in collaboration with Jeroni Fajardo
• Sizes available : 28/XS - 42/4XL
• 100% synthetic
• Ultra-light gloves
• Velcro closure system on cuffs
• Nanofront® ventilated palm for better ventilation of the hand
• Size available : 7/XS - 13/3XL
Competition off-road air filters manufactured in the Netherlands using a special dual-layer foam, formulated for maximum filtration and optimum air flow for improved power.
Top quality materials and superior construction allow the filter to be used over and over again without any loss of performance.
KTM/Husqvarna/GasGas
• KTM 2023 125-450
SX/XC/SXF/XCF 2024 125-500 All Models
• Husqvarna 125-450
FC/FX/TC/TX 2024 125-501 All Models
• GasGas 2024 125-450 All models
Current Price: $19.95
Part # 18-1023
The ProLine Filter has been developed with extensive testing in the United States, South Africa and Europe. This all-new filter offers the ultimate in peace-of-mind riding in all extreme conditions thanks to its profiled single layer foam constructions, which increases surface area and lengthens change intervals.
Like all FunnelWeb filters, the ProLine filter features profile cut, single layer, single density foam that doubles the external surface area of the filter without increasing the original filter size. The ProLine Filter traps dirt-dust, sand and mud- over a larger area on its outer surface, ensuring optimal air flow is maintained for maximized engine performance and reliability.
The single layer, single density polyurethane foam has the added advantage of being easy to clean and the ability to maintain its
original shape after numerous washes. Overall, compared with conventional foam filters, FunnelWeb Offers more protection from dirt ingestion, has longer service intervals and maintains high airflow rates when dirty.
KTM/Husqvarna/GasGas
• KTM 2023 125-450 SX/XC/SXF/ XCF 2024 125-500 All Models
• Husqvarna 2023 125-450 FC/FX/ TC/TX 2024 125-501 All Models
• GasGas 2024 125-500 All Models
Current Price: $28.95
Part # 18-1123
• 7/8" Handlebar risers for Kawasaki
• Raise 10mm or 20mm both are included in the kit.
• All hardware included.
• Kawasaki 1987-2024 KLR650
• Kawasaki 2014-2024 KX 85/100/112
Current Price: $49.95
Part Number: 23-8022
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These premium models are manufactured with the finest components at Beta’s Italian factory. While The EVO Factory models share the same base platform as the standard EVO model they feature updates on both the frame and engine that provides riders competition ready trials bike that has the performance to match its undeniable
The Red Canyon Enduro kicked off the 2024 TSCEC & BJEC enduro series’. It was 65 miles of varying West Texas terrain that challenged every level of enduro racer. Enjoy the race recap, and get involved in the comments.
This first enduro was a co-sanctioned event between TSCEC (Texas State Championship Enduro Circuit) and BJEC (Black Jack Enduro Circuit). It was also a restart format, meaning we only needed to worry about checking in and out of checks, and then transferring down the trail in a timely manner. As far as an enduro format goes, it was a simple day. If was rather rude of them to start the day with an 11.5 mile test, but that’s part of racing.
I registered on row 29 so I could have a few moments being pulled by Cole Kirkpatrick. He is a multi-time TSCEC Champion, and past National Enduro Competitor. He still has crazy speed, and is one to watch to learn from. I was very surprised at the speed I did have on the bike at the beginning of the day. The terrain wasn’t too difficult, allowing me to find a flow state that balanced between speed and aggression.
During the third test I clipped my handlebar, and clutch lever, on a tree. From that moment on, my clutch pull never felt the same. It would pump up, becoming extremely difficult to pull. As the terrain got more difficult, the bike started acting like the clutch was
engaging and disengaging randomly. This caused excessive wear on my left forearm, and sporadic moments on the bike. Yes, there is a chance I was just getting more tired as the day wore on, but I don’t believe this was the only factor.
The ravines, drop-offs, and climbs we were sent over in test four through six were really fun pieces of trail. I wish I had had a bit more energy, and that my bike had felt like it did earlier so that I could attack them a bit better. Regardless of how I felt, the single track we rode was bitching.
The learnings I’m taking away from the Red Canyon enduro have to do with enduro nutrition and mindset. I didn’t consume enough calories during the race day. I underestimated by abilities and speed, so the pace I was keeping throughout the earlier part of the day used up more energy than I planned for. I’ll play with adding more UCAN Energy Gels throughout the day on top of my planned nutrition.
When it comes to my mindset, I need to continue to work through pulling the “mental tear off”. I was completely rattled after the wreck in Test 4 chasing Cole. It was a strange feeling, but it zapped me mentally, which then zapped me physically. I have to work on letting go what has occurred. It’s in the past and can no longer affect what happens in the future, unless I let it. I’ll also try to keep myself from making up stories, as I found myself doing that a bit during and after Test 4.
The positives I can take away really do outweigh the negatives that I can learn from. I have found my racer headspace again, which has allowed me to start tapping back into my racer speed. I warmed up really well before the start of the race; I didn’t feel any moment of arm pump or sore shoulders. I also was pinching the bike a lot with my legs, and standing up more in sections I used to find myself sitting. There’s still room for improvement, but that’s the fun of the constant battle of racing and competition.
If it all works out, Liam and I will be at the Sandwinder Enduro, which is a TSCEC event, and then I’ll be at the second round of BJEC, the Cross Timbers Enduro. Sandwinder is a hoot, though I’m admittedly much
slower there in the wide open sand sections. Cross Timbers Enduro, in OKC, is much more my speed with the red clay and the tighter, twisty wood sections.
I finished 37th Overall and 5th in the 40+ A class. Now that I’m a week removed from the event, I am damn proud of that result. I also know there is a lot more in the tank as I get more seat time, focusing on the things I need to focus on.
New for 2024 is a brand-new GASGAS video series focusing on the technical side of dirt bikes. Something we like to call – GASGAS Tech Talks!
Breaking down various components, what they are, and how they work, as well as guiding you through things like suspension set-up, there really is something for everyone. So, what are you waiting for? Take a moment to start watching and learning!
Dialing in the suspension settings on any dirt bike can be a daunting task… So that’s exactly why we’ve created a video to make sure your GASGAS is set up perfectly for your weight and riding style. Once you’ve watched the video and you understand all of the settings, you’ll really notice the difference on your next ride. Trust us!
VERSATILE
SIMPLE
The Sherco 125 TY embodies a return to the roots of trial and off-road riding: symbols of freedom, discovery, and simple pleasure. With their features, ease of use, and pricing, they are accessible to a wide audience.
Versatile, they are suitable for beginners wanting to explore nature or for more experienced riders on longer journeys, and they can also be used for short daily commutes.
With electric or kick start options, handlebar-integrated starter for easy starting, semi-hydraulic clutch for precision and flexibility, a sturdy frame, a durable 4-stroke engine protected by an aluminum skid plate, easy maintenance, and a fuel tank providing a range of 90 km, the 125 TY range is designed to simplify usage and maximise enjoyment regardless of skill level. LIMITED EDITION FEATURES
• Grey Tech fork with 39mm diameter
• Reiger shock absorber
• Specific graphics kit
• Galfer wave brake discs front and rear
• Front and rear wheels with white hubs
• Tubeless rear rim
words by SHAN MOORE
photos by SHAN MOORE
Defending series champ FMF/KTM Factory Racing’s Johnny Girroir remained undefeated in the 2024 US Sprint Enduro Series after topping round two at Silver Hawk Plantation in Union, South Carolina. Although AmPro Yamaha’s Liam Draper, who is still coming to grips with his 450, didn’t make it easy on Girroir. Draper won the first test of the weekend to kick off Saturday’s event and then went on to win two more on Sunday (though he was just seconds behind in others), losing the battle to Girroir over the course of the two days by a minute and 15 seconds.
“Yesterday I struggled in the cross, like I always do,” said Girroir. “But
I was able to make up some time in the enduro test. I was just feeling really good, flowing really nice. Brought the intensity again on day two and was able to have a really good weekend. Liam was riding really good, and Craig (DeLong) started riding really good towards the end there. It was just a good, fun weekend. The cross test was awesome and the woods test was gnarly.”
Draper took advantage of his woods riding skills since he rode the enduro series last year to pick up a pair of enduro wins on Sunday. “I was battling with Johnny for the first half of both days and got a little lead a few times each day, so that was cool,” said Draper. “It’s definitely been a good start on the 450, and I’m enjoying it. I got some testing to do this week, but other than that, I felt good all day. I struggled a little bit towards the end there. The track just got super rough. I just kind of brought it home in second, but it was a good weekend.”
Rockstar Energy Husqvarna’s Craig DeLong rounded out the podium after getting off to a slow start on Saturday.
“I was struggling with some things,” said DeLong.” I was just going slow. I had a crash
yesterday and ended up sitting on my header pipe. I got two burns on my butt. So, I lost some time yesterday. I probably would have had third yesterday, but I had a crash and lost some time. Today I struggled a bit in the morning. I was messing with my bike and got it working a lot better there halfway through the day. For the crosstest test, I picked up a little bit of time, but for the enduro test, I was able to pick up some more time. I was feeling more like myself. So, that was good. It’s good for my mental side. Just put me in a happier spot.”
Phoenix Honda Racing’s Cody Barnes and Husqvarna rider Jason Tino battled back and forth all weekend, with Barnes getting fourth and fourth Pro 1 rider, while Tino Took fifth overall and won the Pro 2 class.
Landers KTM Racing’s Angus Riordan was second in the Pro 2 division and sixth overall.
"I was pretty slow. I was still able to get second, but Tanner was on one. He rode well. Just cruise along. The cross tests I didn’t mind, but the woods test, I felt like I was at a national enduro. I’ve never done one, but it was too tough for my liking. But it was good.”
Enduro Engineering rider Josh Toth (GG) had a rough day and finished seventh.
Babbitts Off-road Kawasaki’s JoJo Cunningham was eighth overall and first Pro-Am rider.
"Yeah, it wasn’t too bad. I struggled the first couple tests. Bubs got ahead of me. Was actually not happy he was in front of me, but I was at the same time. So I jumped behind him. I’d rather chase than start out front. So, chased him a couple times. Got out maybe two seconds in front of him by the end of the day. Then Coop. The track was pretty rough today, and I don't know. Coop must have ate something good this morning. He was all over us. The track was getting way worse, way rougher. I knew I had a good lead, and then I knew Bubs was surviving his bike. I just figured try to ride smooth and clean through the last test and just keep it out front all weekend. Coop got in front of me, I think the last test or two tests something. I just figured I’d try to chase him in the enduro. Got him, so two Saturday wins, Sunday win. Not too bad."
Rounding out ninth and tenth was Jack Edmondson and Jack Simon (Hsq).
(FMF/KTM Factory Racing’s Brandi Richards dominated the Pro Women’s division., sweeping all 10 of 12 tests in the process.
“I was stoked on the cross test, having some bumps out there,” said Richards.” It was super flowing. The enduro test, I was a little hesitant going into it just because that’s probably the tightest stuff I’ve ridden all year. But I’m extremely happy with how I felt in it and how I progressed all weekend. These girls are fast. They’re ripping. Every test I go out there, I have to be on my toes and I push it. It was a good weekend. Super happy with it. “
Rockstar Energy Husqvarna
Factory Racing’s Korie Steede: "The enduro test was super fun I like the tight stuff. Always happy to come away with a test win here and there. I definitely struggled on the cross test, so got to figure out how to not let that happen quite so much. But all in all, solid weekend."
FactoryONE Sherco’s Rachel Gutish gave Steede a good race, beating her in two of the twelve tests.
Trevor Jones returned to win the Pro Electric class on his Stark Varg.
New for 2024! FMF Fastest Test Awards – These Specialty Awards will be given to the racer of the fastest Cross Test and fastest Enduro Test on the weekend in the Youth/Amateur and Pro divisions.
YOUTH DIVISION
Super Mini SR Racer, Cross Test - CR Wood
Super Mini SR Racer, Enduro Test –CR Wood
AMATEUR DIVISION
250 A RACER, Enduro Test - Chase Landers.
Open A Racer, Sprint Test- JoJo Cunningham
PRO DIVISION
Cross Test – Johnny Girroir
Enduro Test – Johnny Girroir
EVENT RESULTS (PRO)
1. Johnny Girroir (KTM)
2. Liam Draper (YAM)
3. Craig DeLong (HSQ)
4. Cody Barnes (HON)
5. Jason Tino (HSQ)
6. Angus Riordan (KTM)
7. Josh Toth (GG)
8. JoJo Cunningham (KAW)
9. Jack Edmondson (GG)
10. Gavin Simon (HSQ)
EVENT RESULTS (WOMEN'S PRO)
1. Brandi Richards (KTM)
2. Korie Steede (HSQ)
3. Rachel Gutish (SHR)
4. Jordan Jarvis (YAM)
5. Prestin Raines (SHR)
6. Addison Elliott (KTM)
7. Kaitlyn Lindsey (HSQ)
8. Kayla O'Neill (YAM)
words by KAYLA BOLTON photos by MACK FAINT & KEN HILL
On Sunday, February 18, 2024, the Progressive Grand National Cross Country (GNCC) Series presented by Specialized, an AMA National Championship, concluded its season opener at the VP Racing Fuels Big Buck GNCC in Union, South Carolina. The colder temperatures only made for more intense heated battles on the track throughout the course of the weekend.
As the afternoon race got underway it was AmPro Yamaha’s Ricky Russell jumping off the line first to grab the $250 Steel City Medical Center XC1 Open Pro Holeshot Award to start his day. However, it didn’t seem to take FMF/KTM Factory Racing’s Jonathan Girroir long to make the pass for the lead as they made their way through the course on the opening lap.
Girroir would continue to hold the lead with Russell behind him in second for the first four laps of the race. Russell would unfortunately fall back to sixth as they came through the finish line with one lap remaining. Rocky Mountain Red Bear Steward Baylor had made the necessary moves coming from sixth place to third and then into second by the time the white flag was flying. Girroir was ahead by 25 seconds, but Baylor continued to push on as they came into the finish line it was Girroir earning his second career overall win with an 11 second lead over Baylor who earned second overall at the opening round in South Carolina.
Babbitt’s Online/Monster Energy/ Kawasaki Team Green’s Grant Baylor had his work cut out for him as he started back in the 14 place position on the first lap. Grant put his head down and kept on pushing as the laps continued on, Grant would make the necessary moves to put himself in contention for a podium on the last lap. Grant would
make the pass on Coastal GASGAS Factory Racing’s Jordan Ashburn for third on the last lap, and ultimately crossing the finish line to earn the last podium spot.
After running inside the top five for the duration of the race, Coastal GASGAS Factory Racing’s Jordan Ashburn had found himself in third place during the last lap, however, G. Baylor would make the pass stick on Ashburn before coming into the finish line. Ashburn would hold on to finish out the day fourth overall.
Blud Lubricants/Scott Goggles/ FXR’s Evan Smith put in a great ride at the opening round of the 2024 season as he battled back from a 13 place start to the day to having his career best finish of fifth overall and in the XC1 Open Pro class. AmPro Yamaha’s Ricky Russell would have a good start to his day as he was running in second at the beginning, but would ultimately fall back to sixth in the XC1 class and eighth overall.
Another rider having to battle back after a rough start to the day was Rockstar Energy Factory Husqvarna Racing’s Trevor Bollinger. As the race got underway, Bollinger would find himself back in tenth and then as far back as 14th on the second lap. However, Bollinger continued to push on and would make his way up to seventh in the XC1 class and tenth overall on the day. FMF/KTM Factory Racing’s Dante Oliveira
returned to race some GNCC events while teammate, Ben Kelley, is recovering from surgery due to a lingering injury. Oliveira would remain inside the top ten of the XC1 competitors for the duration of the race as he crossed the line eighth in class.
Aboard his new ride, JS7 Sherco Racing’s Josh Strang had his work cut out of him as he did not get off to the start he hoped for. Strang would come through at the back of the pack on lap one, but would steadily make his way up to inside the top ten of the XC1 class by the conclusion of the race. Strang would finish ninth in XC1, and would come through just outside of the top ten overall with a 12th overall finishing position. Phoenix Racing Honda’s Michael Witkowski would round out the top ten XC1 class finishers after three-hours of racing, and would find himself 13th overall at the season opener.
Unfortunately for the defending National Champion, Rockstar Energy Factory Husqvarna Racing’s Craig DeLong he would finish 11th in the XC1 class, and 14th overall on the day after running up in third for the first half of the race. DeLong would make a little mistake with two laps to go, ending in a significant crash which twisted up his bike. DeLong would try to push on but would fall back again before crossing the finish line.
The XC2 250 Pro was an exciting one to watch at round one as FMF KTM Factory Racing Landers’ Angus Riordan and defending champion, AmPro Yamaha’s Liam Draper, went back-and-forth for the majority of the race. Draper would come from behind to make the pass on Riordan, but as the checkered flag flew it would be Riordan coming through just 2.2 seconds ahead of Draper to earn the win at round one. FMF KTM Factory Racing Landers’ Grant Davis would hold on to finish third in the class, and land himself on the podium. Team Enduro Engineering’s Josh Toth and XC2 rookie, Bells Electric Race Team’s Toby Cleveland would round out the top five finishers in the XC2 250 Pro class.
Devore/KTM/FXR/SRS Suspension’s Dakoda Devore would come through to earn the FMF XC3 125 Pro-Am class win at round one in South Carolina. Devore would have to work his way up to first after running back in third on the opening lap. Halls Cycles/Walker Builders LLC/O’Neal’s Jhak Walker is the one Devore would need to pass as he held the lead position for the first three laps of the race. Walker would remain second as he crossed the finish line at the end of the race. Destructo Racing/Dixie Fuel/Prescription Tune Suspension’s Dustin Simpson had a consistent race in the FMF XC3 class at round one, cruising into land the last spot on the podium with a third in the class.
Earning the Top Amateur honor was Jason Tino, who came through in the 18th overall finishing position, and also crossed the finish line first in the 250 A class. Nicholas DeFeo came through 21st overall and took second on the Top Amateur Podium as he also scored second in 250 A. Gavin Simon rounded out the Top Amateur Podium as he came through in 23rd overall and third in the 250 A class.
In the 10 am race it was the WXC racers taking off first with FMF KTM Factory Racing Landers’ Brandy Richards earning herself the first $100 Kanati Performance Tires WXC Holeshot Award. Richards would continue to lead the race for the opening lap before Rocky Mountain Red Bear Kawasaki’s Rachael Archer made the pass stick on Richards. Rockstar Energy Factory Husqvarna Racing’s Korie Steede would follow Archer, making the pass for second on Richards and look to battle for the win.
As the race continued on, Archer would continue to hold the lead while Steede and Richards continued to push on behind her. Archer would come through to earn the first WXC bike win of the season, while Steede and Richards held on to round out
the top three WXC podium. Cade Henderson of Sportsman A (1224) class would come through first overall in the race.
Due to the number of riders, the bike amateur race is split into two separate races on Sunday, and in the 8 am morning race it would be Cayden Johnson coming through to earn the overall win and 250 C Schoolboy (14-17) class win. Logan Renninger would come through second overall and to take second in the 250 C Schoolboy class as well. Maddox Moretz would round out the top three overall finishers, while earning himself a 4-Stroke C Lites class win. Austin Franklin would
come through to earn the Warrior class win in the 8 am race, while Evan Yoest and Matt Modic rounded out the class podium.
EVENT RESULTS (XC1)
1. Johnny Girroir (KTM)
2. Steward Baylor Jr (KAW)
3. Grant Baylor (KAW)
4. Jordan Ashburn (GG)
5. Evan Smith (HSQ)
6. Ricky Russell (YAM)
7. Trevor Bollinger (HSQ)
8. Dante Oliveira (KTM)
9. Josh Strang (SHR)
10. Michael Witkowski (HON)
EVENT RESULTS (WXC)
1. Rachael Archer (KAW)
2. Korie Steede (HSQ)
3. Brandy Richards (KTM)
4. Shelby Turner (GG)
5. Rachel Gutish (SHR)
6. Jocelyn Barnes (HSQ)
7. Kayla O'Neill (YAM)
8. Kaitlyn Lindsey (HSQ)
9. Carly Lee (KTM)
10. Addison Elliott (KTM)
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The inaugural evening in Bulgaria brought the thrills and spills that fans of the MotoZ FIM SuperEnduro World Championship are accustomed to, with several riders shining bright and Jonny Walker (GBR-Beta) hailed as one of the great heroes of the evening. The English rider suffered through the entire evening with food poisoning and his participation was in doubt until just before the first gate drop. Determined not to see the title slip away, Walker gathered the little strength he had left to race the penultimate GP of the season. The Beta rider was impressive, managing to finish each of the races despite his immense physical disadvantage. He achieved fourth in the first and second races and fifth in the final fight of the night, therefore finishing fourth overall in the GP, tied on points with Will Hoare (GBR-Rieju).
Walker is now 59 points behind Billy Bolt (GBR-Husqvarna) - if the reigning champion takes victory in the first race next weekend, he would be crowned without even needing to contest the remaining two races.
It was another impeccable evening for Bolt as he smashed the
fastest time in the Akrapovic Superpole, rushed to the Airoh Holeshot Award, and won all three races with relative ease. The factory Husqvarna rider left the Bulgarian crowd in no doubt of his skill, talent and showmanship. Winning the first race by almost eight seconds ahead of Manuel Lettenbichler (GER-KTM), and the second race ahead of the German by almost ten seconds. In the final battle of the night Bolt did not let up his effort, taking another controlled victory in front of Will Hoare and Mitch Brightmore (GBRGASGAS). A hattrick for Bolt which made onlookers forget the injury problems he has suffered in recent weeks. King Billy is only a week away from another crown…
“The track tonight was slick and slippery but it was really enjoyable to ride so the Bulgarian organisation have done a brilliant job," commented Bolt. "I’ve come out of it with another three wins and a solid advantage. Tonight was tough for Jonny, and we all know what it’s like to suffer through bad times so I feel for him. It hasn’t sunk in for me yet that Newcastle is just next weekend, we’re a tightknit community and I know the atmosphere is going to be unreal, see you all there!”
"I am very happy tonight because I led the second race for a few laps," explained Hoare. "Unfortunately then I had a crash and in the final race I finished second. I feel more and more comfortable on my Rieju after every race. Now we will train for the SuperEnduro final in the UK."
The rest of the evening was quite lively for the podium contenders, Manuel Lettenbichler finished second overall in the Bulgarian GP after having perfectly played his role as an outsider, replacing Jonny Walker at the front. The German rode very well during all three races but the last one was a little more hectic for the factory KTM rider who took the chequered flag in fourth place. His third place in the championship standings now seems almost certain, but Will Hoare is going to give everything to dislodge him during the British GP. The Rieju rider made his return to the overall podium in Bulgaria with third –a first success for the Spanish manufacturer. Hoare must close a gap of 32 points if he wants to overtake Lettenbichler overall. The fight for the Top 5 was also very lively, Eddie Karlsson (SWE-Husqvarna) rode with a damaged engine all evening and finally had to give up before the last race when he could have aimed for a good third place.
Mitch Brightmore (GBR-GASGAS) also came very close to his first podium in Prestige. The 2023 Junior World Champion is one of the most impressive riders of the 2024 season.
The young British prodigy, Ashton Brightmore (GBR-GASGAS), won his fourth GP of the season in the Junior category. With this latest success, the standout rider of the season is heading towards the class title and could succeed his big brother Mitch, last year’s Junior World Champion. The Brightmore siblings are clearly ready to write their names large in the annals of the sport. Ashton scored his first hattrick of the season by winning all three races in Sofia. Despite his best efforts, Suff Sella (ISR-KTM) was unable to curb the enthusiasm and skill of his young opponent. The Israeli KTM rider was forced to make comebacks three times during the races, which he managed well, but Brightmore was always one step ahead. A big crash in the final race of the night left Sella bruised and feeling defeated despite the fact he still achieved third overall. The Brit will arrive in Newcastle with a 26-point advantage, but nothing is certain until the final flag. Milan Schmueser (GER-Sherco) took his best result of the season by finishing second in the Bulgarian GP, a good return
from injury for the German. As in the Prestige class, a Junior king will be crowned in just one week’s time, and the UK are on course for two home grown champions!
“I’m really happy to come away from Bulgaria with three wins and the overall," exclaimed Brightmore. "I tried to stay mistake free but it wasn’t easy on this track. In the last race I felt the pressure from Suff, but I was staying calm, and then suddenly he wasn’t there anymore and I came past him on the next lap. I didn’t really know what had happened to him. Anyway, I’m really looking forward to next week in Newcastle, counting the days now!”
1. Billy Bolt (HUS)
2. Manuel Lettenbichler (KTM)
3. Will Hoare (RIE)
4. Jonny Walker (BET)
5. Mitchell Brightmore (GG)
6. Dominik Olszowy (RIE)
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Housed inside a lightweight frame that offers nimble handling while ensuring high-speed stability, the incredibly versatile 2024 TX 300 features an all-new XACT Closed Cartridge spring fork to comfortably retain its place as the leading offroad 2-stroke machine on the market.
words by KAYLA BOLTON photos by MACK FAINT & KEN HILL
The Moose Racing Wild Boar, round two of the 2024 Progressive Grand National Cross Country (GNCC) Series presented by Specialized, an AMA National Championship, concluded racing on Sunday, March 3. After a sunny and warm start to the day, the clouds started to roll in and a downpour of rain later in the afternoon race would make it one of the gnarliest Florida GNCC finishes.
As the race got underway it was Coastal GASGAS Factory Racing’s Jordan Ashburn getting the jump off the line to earn the $250 Steel City Medical Center’s XC1 Open Pro Holeshot award. After overcoming a first-turn crash, FMF KTM Factory Racing’s Jonathan Girroir would continue to push his way towards the front of the pack.
Rocky Mountain Red Bear Kawasaki’s Steward Baylor would make his way into the lead on the second lap of the race but would have Girroir just seconds behind him waiting to make a move into the lead. On the fourth lap, Girroir would do just that and make the pass stick on Baylor for the lead. As conditions worsened, Girroir put his head down and pushed on towards the finish. Girroir would cross the finish line with over a two-minute lead to earn his second-straight win of the season.
Baylor would hold on to finish second in the XC1 class and third overall as FMF KTM Factory Racing Landers’ Grant Davis finished second overall from the XC2 250 Pro class. Babbitts Online/Monster Energy/Kawasaki Team Green’s Lyndon Snodgrass would battle back from an eighth place start to round out the top three XC1 finishers, and fourth overall on the day in Florida.
After earning the holeshot Coastal GASGAS Factory Racing’s Jordan Ashburn would have a consistent
race as he maintained a top five position throughout, and ultimately crossing the line fourth in XC1 and sixth overall on the day. JS Sherco Racing’s Josh Strang steadily climbed his way back up past his competitors as he started his day back in the tenth place position. Strang would come back to make a last lap pass to finish fifth in XC1, and seventh overall at round two.
Husqvarna’s Evan Smith would cross the line eighth overall, sixth in XC1, after starting his day at the back of the pack on the opening lap and having to work his way back.
Phoenix Racing Honda’s Michael Witkowski came through to earn seventh in XC1, while finishing ninth overall.
After getting off to a good start, Rockstar Energy Factory Husqvarna Racing’s Trevor Bollinger would find himself having to regroup and push his way back towards the front after the second lap. Bollinger would then have to make a fast pit stop after his rear brake went out. As he got back out on the track, he would come through to earn eleventh overall, and eighth in XC1. Coastal GASGAS Factory Racing’s Ryder Lafferty made his way to ninth in XC1 after having to come back from the back of the pack mid-way through the race.
Unfortunately for Babbitts Online/ Monster Energy/Kawasaki Team
Green’s Grant Baylor he would be running third after five laps of racing but would have his bike lock up during the last lap and was unable to finish out the lap. AmPro Yamaha’s Ricky Russell would complete four out of six laps, while Morgantown Powersports/Tely Energy KTM’s Layne Michael was only able to complete three laps of the race. A big upset for Rockstar Energy Factory Husqvarna Racing’s Craig DeLong happened during lap one after a bad start to the race. DeLong would crash on the opening lap, and after realizing he had broken part of the bike, he went to get help. Upon returning DeLong realized his bike was on fire from the exhaust touching some dry grass, ultimately ending his day.
As the XC2 250 Pro class took off it was Bells Electric Race Team’s Toby Cleveland earning himself the $250 Steel City Medical Center XC2 Holeshot award. However, it would not take long for FMF KTM Factory Racing Landers’ Grant Davis to make a pass into the lead on the opening lap. For the first couple of laps Davis and Team Enduro Engineering’s Josh Toth would battle back-and-forth, but as the race wore on Davis would hold the lead position and make a mad dash towards to the front of the pack.
Davis would come through to earn his first-ever XC2 class win, but he would also have another huge
accomplishment of finishing second overall on the day.
Angus Riordan, who is the current XC2 points leader, would make his way up to second in the class after battling back from a fourth place start to the day, while also finishing fifth overall. Making a GNCC appearance this season was Honda Canada/GDR/Fox Racing’s Tyler Medaglia as he battled his way from the back of the pack up to third in the XC2 class to close out his day at round two. Unfortunately for the XC2 250 Pro defending champion, AmPro Yamaha’s Liam Draper he would only be able to complete four out of the six laps after running in the third place position.
In the FMF XC3 125 Pro-Am class it was TCO Off-Road KTM Canada’s Philippe Chaine grabbing the Lojak Cycle Sales XC3 Holeshot award to start the day, however Devore/ KTM/FXR/SRS Suspension made his way into the lead not long after the start. Devore would hold the lead for the first three laps of the race before Liqui Moly Factory Beta Racing’s Jhak Walker made the pass for the lead stick on Devore. Walker remained in the lead for the remainder of the race crossing the line six minutes ahead of his competition.
Devore would ultimately be unable to finish the race, as he only completed four out of the six laps.
After grabbing the hoelshot, TCO Off-Road KTM Canada’s Philippe Chaine would continue to push for the duration of the race, coming through to earn a podium position in the FMF XC3 class as he crossed the finish line in second. Destructo Racing/Dixie Fuel/Prescription Tune Suspension’s Dustin Simpson made his way into a podium position on the last lap as he battled through the conditions in Florida.
Earning the Top Amateur honors at the Wild Boar was Team Green Kawasaki’s Nick DeFeo as he came through to earn an impressive 10th overall finishing position on the day, and the 250 A class win. Jason Tino came through to earn second on the Top Amateur podium with a 15th overall and second in 250 A. Zack Hayes rounded out the Top Amateur podium with a 19th overall and a first place finish in the Open A class.
As the morning race got underway, it was Rockstar Energy Factory Husqvarna Racing’s Korie Steede jumping off the line first and earning herself the $100 Kanati Performance Tires WXC Holeshot award. Steede would hold the lead position for the first lap of the race, but FMF KTM Factory Racing Landers’ Brandy Richards was right behind her looking for a chance to make a pass stick.
Richards would have that opportunity on the second lap, making her way into the WXC lead
as they came around. Richards would continue to hold the lead for the rest of the race, coming through to earn her first-ever WXC class win in GNCC and by over a minute. Steede would continue to push but would be unable to battle back against Richards. She would come across the finish line second in WXC. Sherco USA/Moose/Rachel Gutish Racing’s Rachel Gutish made her way into third on the second lap, and she would continue to push for the remaining laps of the race, crossing the finish line third in her class at round two.
Kailub Russell would race the morning race in the Sportsman
A class, coming through to earn the overall win, while Tom Mason from Australia would also race in Sportsman A coming through second overall in the race.
EVENT RESULTS (XC1)
1. Johnny Girroir (KTM)
2. Steward Baylor Jr (KAW)
3. Lyndon Snodgrass (KAW)
4. Jordan Ashburn (GG)
5. Josh Strang (SHR)
6. Evan Smith (HSQ)
7. Michael Witkowski (HON)
8. Trevor Bollinger (HSQ)
9. Ryder Lafferty (GG)
10. Grant Baylor (KAW)
EVENT RESULTS (WXC)
1. Brandy Richards (KTM)
2. Korie Steede (HSQ)
3. Rachel Gutish (SHR)
4. Rachael Archer (KAW)
5. Shelby Turner (GG)
6. Jocelyn Barnes (HSQ)
7. Prestin Raines (SHR)
8. Kaitlyn Lindsey (HSQ)
9. Addison Elliott (KTM)
10. Carly Lee (KTM)
March
March 16-17: Trials Training Days
June 22-23: NATC Mototrials National Rd 3 & 4
June 24-27: Family Camp
June 28-30: AMA/NextGen Mototrials Youth & Women's
August 2-25: TKO: 14th Annual Red Bull Kenda Tennessee
Out Extreme Enduro
October 12-13: 32nd Annual 58K Fall Trial
December 7: Toy Trial
Billy Bolt (GBR-Husqvarna) continues to break records and become a true legend of his sport. The Brit won his seventh Grand Prix of the season with yet another hattrick. In fact, in 2024, Bolt took 100% of the overall victories. With the entire Utilita Arena in his home town of Newcastle behind him, Bolt used his skill and near-flawless riding to ensure nobody else could get a look in. His title celebrations started immediately after his hot Akrapovic SuperPole lap, which was enough to give him the last three points he needed to be crowned. The factory Husqvarna rider was jubilant in front an adoring crowd and he was able to enjoy the rest of the evening without any pressure. During the first race he rushed to the Airoh Holeshot, although a small mistake put Jonny Walker (GBR-Beta) in the driving seat momentarily. But the quadruple world champion was back at the front in a flash. Walker then found
himself under threat from a flying Mitch Brightmore (GBR-GASGAS). However, Walker managed to cross the finish line in front of his young compatriot as Race 1 saw a British 1-2-3.
The second heat of the night offered a spectacle that will go down as one of the greatest moments of the 2024 season. The race was peppered with twists, turns and unpredictability. Billy Bolt held back at the start as he often does with the reverse grid races, while out in the lead Jonny Walker took control, overtaking Manuel Lettenbichler (GER-KTM) and looking ever stronger with each obstacle. It looked like Walker might get to enjoy a race victory on home soil, but a slightly crazy end to the race shook up the rankings in the second final. A mistake for Bolt in the rocks handed the Beta rider a decent lead, but the number 57 rider is not one to give up easily and, supported by 6,500 spectators, Bolt made a fantastic comeback on Walker who made a mistake one lap from the finish. The two 2024 opponents battled shoulder-toshoulder for a few turns, bringing the arena to its feet. Billy Bolt, as usual, had the last word, getting the better of Walker who is also overtaken by Lettenbichler.
The last race was a mere formality for the 2024 champion who expressed his joy in his riding and in his celebrations. Just as in Race 2, he won Race 3 ahead of Lettenbichler and Walker. The final GP result was the same as the final title standings: Bolt, Walker, Lettenbichler.
Billy Bolt is 2024 World Champion, while Jonny Walker takes the silver medal and ‘LETTI’ brings home bronze. This last race of 2024 reflected the spectacular and competitive season enjoyed by riders and fans alike. Congratulations to all the riders for a magnificent season. Bolt will now be able to think about treating his damaged knee and coming back even stronger in 2025…and who will be ready to challenge him?
At just 17 years old Ashton Brightmore (GBR-GASGAS) accomplished his mission perfectly, winning the title in the Junior category. Without so much as a wheel out of place, the younger brother of Mitch Brightmore (2023 Junior World Champion) showed unfailing composure throughout the season and on the most important night of the year. The GASGAS rider won the first race of the evening with authority and a huge standings lead over Israel’s Suff Sella (KTM). Despite finishing an uncharacteristic
seventh in the first race, Sella reacted well by putting enormous pressure on Brightmore during the second race. The two men were wheel to wheel in the final turns of the race. Sella let go in the melee and Brightmore headed towards his second success of the evening, which gave him the title of Junior World Champion. This latest triumph for the Brightmore family was celebrated in a wave of emotion which was plain for everyone in the arena to see. In just two seasons, the two brothers have emerged as two of the most talented riders in the sport. Mitch and Ashton perfectly embody the bright future of the MotoZ FIM SuperEnduro World Championship. The last round was won, in a burst of pride, by Suff Sella who offered superb competition to Brightmore. Since his severe leg break last year, Sella has proved himself as a fierce and skilled competitor and he offered up many great fights in 2024. Unbeatable Brightmore wins gold, while silver goes to Sella. Roland Liszka (HUN-KTM) resisted the return of Marc Fernandez Serra (ESP-KTM), and the young Hungarian won the bronze medal in the junior category.
In the manufacturers' ranking, HUSQVARNA wins another world title, BETA is second ahead of GASGAS and RIEJU, KTM completes the Top 5. This last round of the season marked the last race of the long term promoters of SuperEnduro: ABC Communication is withdrawing from the discipline after 12 years at the head of the world championship: 54 GPs, 15 countries
visited and some incredible pages written in the off-road racing history book. A big thank you to Alain and Bastien Blanchard for these amazing years of competition.
Billy Bolt: “With the thrill of the title I’d forgotten about all the pain, the leg injury and everything I went through! That’s next week’s problem. But to be honest, when I was lying on the ground in Germany after getting injured in that practice session I was in a bad place in my head. But I have an amazing team of people around me, we made good decisions together, we survived and I’ve won the title again. Massive credit to the promoters, ABC Communications, because the sport has grown so much since I started and to win at home in front of a sold-out crowd of amazing fans is an absolute dream.”
Jonny Walker: “I feel like I’m riding well, and I just need to change a few things, get rid of a few mistakes. I’m really looking forward to next year, and I’ll be giving it my all. I’m hoping to have a bit more support from Beta next year, it’s been tough being a privateer, but overall I’m pleased with how things have gone. All credit to Billy, he’s a beast and was just unbeatable.”
Ashton Brightmore: “It really means a lot to win this title, it hasn’t sunk in yet but at the same time I’m absolutely buzzing. Winning it a year after my brother is special, as
a family we work really hard, and to follow in Mitch’s footsteps is so great. It’s going to be interesting to fight it out in Prestige next year! It won’t be easy and I have a lot to learn, but I’m always up for a challenge!”
1. Billy Bolt (HUS)
2. Jonny Walker (BET)
3. Manuel Lettenbichler (KTM)
4. Mitch Brightmore (GG)
5. Will Hoare (RIE)
1. Billy Bolt (427)
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2. Jonny Walker (354)
3. Manuel Lettenbichler (287)
4. Will Hoare (240)
5. Mitch Brightmore (230)
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The second shipment of Mecatecno Dragonflies has recently arrived with two very helpful features added to the bike’s controller to assist in the performance of the rider: An “Anti-Roll back” feature, which prevents the back wheel from rolling backwards as soon as backward movement is detected by the controller
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Every January, an amazing offseason attraction takes place in York, Pennsylvania, where a tremendous collection of likeminded vintage motorcycle collectors, racers, and fans gather for a weekend they have been dreaming about since the last checkered flag waved, ending the 2023 season. For sure the main attraction of the weekend is Sunday’s long-running Potomac Vintage Riders (PVR) swap meet and
bike show. This event has grown to become one of the largest indoor vintage motorcycle events on the East Coast with nearly four hundred vendors covering 75,000 square feet of floor space.
The swap meet really is a sight to behold as there are rows upon rows of parts, projects, complete bikes, gear, memorabilia, random treasures, services, and pretty much anything else you can imagine.
Add to that the glorious bouquet of bikes featured in the show field front and center in the arena. Here is where all the dreams conjured by the array of parts, pieces, and hope that surround the bike show are formed into reality. And if all the wares inside the building aren’t enough to satisfy the deal-hungry shopper, the parking lot is often littered with motorcycles in all states and conditions, if you are willing to brave the bitter cold and lingering snowpack of a recent storm.
Historically, the public has strongly supported this event, and 2024 was no different, with hordes of prospective buyers lining the aisles adding to the eclectic visage of the room. That support is quite beneficial to the AHRMA family as the event is PVR’s primary source of income, and PVR is a long-time major sponsor of regional AHRMA racing throughout the Mid-Atlantic. On top of the huge contributions to the trials, cross-country, and motocross race action proper, the club also sponsors and operates the series’ year-end awards banquet for AHRMA’s Mid-Atlantic and Northeast regions. The racers and families from each region, along with many of the swap meet vendors, swarm the Wyndham Garden York hotel lobby at check-in time the Saturday before the swap meet. Here, the crowd gathers in the ballroom that evening for a
celebration of the season past, complete with meal, raffles, generous door prizes, championship and special awards presentations, and the chance to do some offseason bench racing and potentially rub elbows with some motorcycling stardom. It’s easy to become starstruck throughout the weekend as
the banquet and the swap meet tends to draw an admirable crowd of big names. You may catch a glimpse of motocross legends Don Kudalski and Barry Higgins enjoying the conversation during the banquet, overhear off-road royalty Jack Penton discussing the prior evening’s emotional supercross win by Aaron Plessinger with television icon Larry Maiers over breakfast, or bump into Blackwater 100 champion Kevin Lavoie or Dirt Bike and Trail Rider magazine influencer Paul Clipper. In each case, all of these folks, as has been my experiences with everyone that has ever enjoyed widespread success in any discipline of professional motorcycle racing, is as approachable and humble as anyone who shares the common ground of a love for twowheels.
That last statement could not be truer for the banquet’s featured guest speaker, Sue “Flying” Fish. Sue graciously took the stage in a gracious attempt to relay her amazing life and experiences to the eager crowd, and if you know anything about her successes, that is a tall order to complete in a limited-time speaking engagement. For Sue’s story, if you’re gonna start you might as well start from the beginning where her love of motorcycles was encouraged early on through her father and progressed from riding pillion with him through the California desert
to her fearlessly trying to keep the pace twisting the throttle to its stop on her Hodaka. Living close to Indian Dunes, and being involved with a family that rode, provided endless opportunity to hone her skills on a dirt bike and win a few wheelie or jumping contests along the way. Once she started to race motocross in her early teens, often six times per week, she quickly made her presence known. Often the subject of off-handed remarks from competitor’s parents along the lines of “don’t let that girl beat you”, Sue relished in her ability to do just that… beat them…and often!
With the backing of Yamaha, Sue quickly rose to the top of the women’s motocross scene and capped her ascent off with backto-back AMA Women’s Motocross Championships in 1976 and 1977. If not already considered a pioneer
to women within the sport, Sue continued to challenge herself and the status quo by taking every opportunity to race against the men on the professional stage, something almost unheard of a few short years prior. And the familiar refrain followed her to this venue as well, “don’t let her beat you”, and again she was able to earn her place and respect in the sport by beating plenty of the men on their own turf.
Motocross was just the start for Sue as she would take on more amazing roles in her early years. From participating in Evel Knievel’s
stunt shows, where she could clearly exploit her love of jumping a motorcycle, to setting up shop in Hollywood as a stuntwoman, where she would famously perform as Linda Hamilton’s double in The Terminator. Of course, Sue’s speech wouldn’t be complete without humbly mentioning that she would go on become a member of the AMA Hall of Fame in 2012 for her success in the sport and also as a role model for women and would also be named an FIM Legend the following year.
That was most of what Sue was able to fit into her allotted time, which is certainly more than many folks can claim to have accomplished in a lifetime. But sensing there was more to the story, I jumped at the opportunity to talk to Sue a few weeks after the swap meet to dig deeper into her past and to get her impressions on the PVR event, the people, and her outlook on what’s next for “The Flying Fish”.
Jumping back into the storyline following her championship seasons, Sue continued to battle in both the men’s and women’s motocross arenas with plenty of success despite some time missed due to injury. In fact, after a hard crash down the “Freeway” at Carlsbad in ’78, she returned triumphantly
to battle her way to the women’s class victory at the same track in front the entire nation as shown during 1979’s ABC Wide World of Sports coverage of the event. The competitive motocross career would come to an end by 1985, and Sue’s memories of that last AMA Women’s Motocross Championship race is vivid, not for the victory, but the tremendous battle between her and rising women’s star Mercedes Gonzalez. Both racers had moments of adversity throughout the race, with Sue’s Yamaha suffering from a stuck float causing her to leak gas and Mercedes taking an upclose look at the dirt after an illtimed spill. The two went down to the wire in an epic battle with Mercedes ultimately coming out the victor. Fittingly this seemed to be an unofficial passing of the torch to
Mercedes, who is both a great friend to Sue Fish to this day and would go on to carry the unofficial title as the face of women’s motocross well into the nineties, just as Sue had through the seventies and early eighties. But leaving motocross was not the end of motorcycles or competition for Sue, throughout the next decades she took part in nearly every type of two-wheeled racing there is. Well, that is except for hill climbing and freestyle motocross. Despite professing her love of jumping, from which she earned her “Flying” moniker, she indicated that the aerial antics of the freestyle crowd is one step beyond her fearlessness quota. Sue also spent a great deal of time competing in mountain bike racing, in particular downhill racing, where she missed a World Championship
by three-one-thousandths of a second! With plenty of experiences in flat track, speedway, off-road, mountain bikes, and a significant stint in road racing, Sue always comes back to motocross when asked about her favorite discipline. Downhill mountain biking was as close as she got to thrill of motocross, but racing a clock lacked that head-to-head competition she craved. To her, racing isn’t so much adrenaline rush, even that that surely plays a part. For Sue, the ability to focus own’s energy, concentration, and physical prowess so intensely into the moment in time when you are controlling that motorcycle is the ultimate reward. She was known for her fierceness
and physical conditioning, her race face, and relishing the mind games that go into intimidating the competition through her intense focus and determination. Her mind is still there, still feeling she’s as fast as she ever was despite not competing in years. When asked if she would consider lining up behind the gate at an AHRMA event, the hesitation was obvious. You see, her body has seen plenty of injury, even taking a seemingly neverending tumble in a road race at onehundred-thirty mile-per-hour, and it wears plenty of scars and contains enough screws, plates, and other metal bits to stock a small hardware store. But as we talked further, I could hear her hesitation fading into
the background as her subliminal mind began chanting “you can do it!”. I’m not going to say you’ll see her out there…but I’m not going to eliminate the possibility she could be convinced.
Apart from the competitive side of Sue’s life, there was quite a bit of time where she was isolated from the sport as she focused on her career. She spent years fostering a solid reputation as a personal trainer and parlayed that into starting a successful physical training facility in 1987. Additionally, she spent time working in the motorcycle industry. However, her isolation from the sport would begin to get chipped away as the sport she was so influential in just wouldn’t let her go.
Little by little she was pulled back in, starting with being inducted into Legends and Heroes in conjunction with AMA Supercross in 2010. Certainly an honor, but after industry magnate Tom White began a hardcore push, she would gain an even greater honor by joining the exclusive membership of the AMA Hall of Fame in 2012. As if that weren’t enough to grab her attention and demonstrate the sport needed Sue Fish, the following year, the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme would name her an FIM Legend. All of this brings us to today, at a racing banquet in Pennsylvania, and a renewed enthusiasm to engage in the sport
where she made her mark years before.
These days Sue Fish has retired from the “real world” responsibilities, moved her home closer to her roots near Indian Dunes after forty years on the coast in Santa Barbara. She stills rides every day, in fair weather of course, where the twisting roads of the foothills around her new home are a perfect place to stretch the legs on her Kawasaki Z400. Without a real job to tie her down, Sue had the time to travel to York to present her story at the banquet and sign posters at the following day’s swap meet. And her retelling
of her experience meeting the PVR and AHRMA gang focuses on the wonderful people that she met, the new friends she so effortlessly made, the enthralling atmosphere, camaraderie, shared passion, and good morals of all the attendees. These people are “her kind” and connecting with new and old friends is so very rewarding. In fact, the experience in total has reinforced Sue’s ideas of what she envisions her future to be. She feels that she has come full circle, back into the sport she loves and loves her, and aims to influence others through her extraordinary experiences, tapping into the sensation that
was motocross in its early years and sharing the joyous “feeling of riding motorcycles”. Sue’s hope is to spend more time inspiring women riders through motivational speaking engagements, leading adventure rides, skills training, and showing what it takes to hone oneself through focus and dedication and the personal reward and inspiration that can come from engaging in the sport of motorcycling. If she tackles this new outlook with the same approach as her collective life to this point, I see many more people getting the opportunity to befriend and be inspired by Sue “Flying” Fish…as I’ve been!
