On the Pegs Magazine - 07 July 2018

LEARN THE SMAGE STYLE! JARVIS COMES FROM BEHIND TO WIN ERZBERG

SILENCETHE COMPETITION

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CHAMPIONS RIDE KENDA

The Big Picture

AND GAM LOGGED IN

Karl Davis Jr. carves a narrow line across the top of this rock/log combination at the US National MotoTrials in Tennessee. The Scorpa USA rider took a third and a second over the two day event.

PHOTO BY SHAN MOORE

The Big Picture

Toni Bou gives the fans something to cheer about as he performs just inches away from the masses at the recent TrialGP in Andorra, where the Repsol Honda rider claimed his 99th career victory in the series.

The Big Picture

AND GAM BLUE SKIES

Cory Buttrick stands out against a beautiful blue sky en route to fifth overall at the recent Jolly Mine Full Gas Sprint Enduro in Wellston, Ohio. Buttrick is an Ohio boy so he was performing for a partisian crowd.

PHOTO BY DARRIN CHAPMAN

The Big Picture

AND GAM STRETCH...

Beta USA’s Andreas Niederer lays out to get his weight as far forward as possible while driving up this rock step at the US National MotoTrials Series in Arkansas

PHOTO BY SHAN MOORE

The Big Picture

AND GAM FOCUSED

America’s Maddie Hoover draws a bead on a narrow line en route to a second overall finish in the Trial2Women’s division at the recent TrialGP of Japan. After two rounds, Maddie sits second in the standings.

PHOTO

BY

PEP SEGALES/TRIALGP

The Big Picture

Adam Raga peers from under his handlebar to get a look at what’s next after splattering up a rock face at the Japanese round of the TrialGP in Motegi, Japan.

PHOTO BY SPEP SEGALES/TRIALGP

AND GAM IRON MAN

Graham Jarvis claimed his fourth career victory at the famed Iron Giant with his recent win at this year’s Red Bull Erzberg Rodeo Hare Scramble in Erzberg, Austria. Jarvis came from behind to secure the “W”.

PHOTO BY FUTURE7MEDIA

The Big Picture

S&T Cycles • North Clanton, AL • 205-755-1001

Al’s Cycle Center • North Little Rock, AR • 501-758-4800

Dirt Riders West • Scottsdale, AZ • 800-467-0604

On Any Moto • Tucson, AZ • 520-269-6606

Auburn Extreme Powersports • Auburn, CA • 530-885-7105

Browns Cycles • Paso Robles, CA • 805-238-1240

C&D Cycle Center • San Diego, CA • 858-277-3298

Extreme Power Sports • Steamboat, CO • 970-879-9175

Grand Mesa Motorsports • Delta, CO • 970-874-8621

MotoAdventure • Loveland, CO • 970-669-5377

Spirit Lake Motorsports • Grand Lake CO • 970-627-9288

Level 10 Performance Motorsports • Ormond Beach, FL • 386-944-9160

Cycle Tech • Fremont, IA • 641-632-8201

Hicklin PowerSports • Grimes, IA • 515-986-4880

Bonecutter Body Shop

Capitol Yamaha • Sacramento, CA • 916-485-9200

Douglas Motorcycles • San Bernardino • CA/909-884-4776

Honda Kawasaki Beta of Modesto • Modesto, CA • 209-529-5424

Jetworld Powersports • Castaic, CA • 661-294-0072

Moore & Sons • Santa Cruz, CA • 831-475-3619

MotoXotica • Vacaville, CA • 707-446-4282

Mountain Motorsports • Ontario, CA • 909-988-8988

North Kern Motorsports • Delano, CA • 661-721-1400

Simi Valley Cycles • Simi Valley, CA • 805-522-3434

Uptite Husky • Santa Ana, CA • 714-540-2920

Action Cycles N Sleds • Twin Falls,ID • 208-736-8118

Dennis Dillon RV & Marine • Boise, ID • 208-343-2830

Kolby Offroad • Idaho Falls, ID • 208-881-9646

Revolution Motorsports • Moscow, ID • 208-883-7800

Sandpoint Marine & Motorsports • Ponderay, ID • 208-263-1535

Braaap Shop • Mendota, IL • 815-538-6686

Integ Motorsports Inc. • East Peoria, IL • 309-699-3929

Fatty’s Cycle• Fortville, IN • 37-485-6200

The Cycle Shed • Vernon, IN • 812-346-8620

Miller Cycle Shop • Inman, KS • 620-712-1165

Apex Sports • Colorado Springs, CO • 719-475-2437

Morgan’s Suspension Service • Louisville, KY • 502-239-1870

Knight Cycles • Southbridge, Xtreme Powersports • Accident, Bennett Powersports • Marlette, MX Parts Now • Watervliet, Plus One Performance • Dearborn,

• California, Donnell’s Motorcycles • Independence, Motorcycles and More

• Marthasville,

QC Moto • Springfield, MO

Fastoys • Kalispell, MT • Hanson’s Motorsports • Billings, Kurt’s Polaris • Missoula, Poet Motorcycles • Helena,

Naults Powersports

Trapani Race Setups • Waretown, Available at one of these fine

Brewer Cycles • Henderson, Johnny’s Cycle • Nebraska

• Manchester, Town & Country Cycle Center

2018 390 RR 4-STROKE RACE EDITION

The 390 RR Race Edition offers incredible torque for riders owning a 250F or 350F that are tired of shifting.

Southbridge, MA • 508-764-4356

Accident, MD • 301-387-2095

Marlette, MI • 989-635-5500

Watervliet, MI • 269-201-7064

Dearborn, MI • 313-918-8944

California, MO • 573-796-8685

Independence, MO • 816-478-9393

Champion Motorsports • Roswell, NM • 575-624-0151

DT Motorsports • Alamogordo, NM • 575-434-0454

Sierra BMW Motorcycle • Sparks, NV • 775-355-0655

Sportsman Cycle • Las Vegas, NV • 702-641-6401

Powerline Cycles • Mahopac, NY • 845-528-3401

Steve’s Custom Cycle • Lockport, NY • 716-625-4372

Beaver Creek Cycle • Lisbon, OH • 330-386-7353

Upstate Cycle • Greenville SC • 864-232-7223

Rosco’s Motorcycle & ATV • Rapid City, SD • 605-348-3946

Garry Griffith Cycle • Chattanooga, TN • 423-867-0423

Knox Enduro • Knoxville, TN • 865-308-0330

380 Motorsports • Decatur, TX • 817-752-8456

Big Country Motorsports • Magnolia, TX • 281-356-2506

Cutler’s Inc. • Orem, UT • 801-224-5005

Marthasville, MO • 636-433-2384

MO • 417-862-4343

406-257-8697

Billings, MT • 406-545-7338

Missoula, MT • 406-541-3651

Helena, MT • 406-457-8230

Henderson, NC • 252-492-8553

Nebraska City, NE • 402-873-6913

Manchester, NH • 603-669-7220

Center • Hamburg, NJ • 973-875-2111

Waretown, NJ • 609-693-3773

Championship Powersports • Wauseon, OH • 419-335-8600

Pony Powersports • Westerville, OH • 614-212-7888

Airhead Sales & Service • Klamath Falls, OR • 541-882-3572

Beaverton Motorcycles • Tigard, OR • 503-718-6670

Dan’s Motorsports Outlet • Salem, OR • 503-385-8108

Bromley Motorcycle • Trevose, PA • 215-357-1534

Bromley Motorsports • Stevensville, PA • 215-450-5487

Kissell Motorsports • State College, PA • 814-861-7890

Pro Motorsports • Carnnegie, PA • 724-444-6555

RyanCo Cycle Works • Bloomsburg, PA • 570-437-4034

South Mtn Cycle Shop • Dillsburg, PA • 717-432-4997

Ridgeline Motorsports • Vernal, UT • 435-789-7433

Steadmans Recreation • Tooele, UT • 435-882-3344

Sunny Offroad • George, UT • 435-632-8481

Sunny Offroad • Perry, UT • 801-430-1101

Allsport Cycles • Roanoke, VA • 540-772-2500

Frank’s Motor Bikes/Bellevue, WA • 425-603-9000

Smitty’s Outdoor Power & Cycle • Yakima, WA • 509-453-9966

Sprocket Sport Sales • Spokane, WA • 509-489-7331

Metro Motorcycle • Neenah, WI • 920-722-0700

Appalachian Offroad • Lanes, WV • 304-932-0437

Alpine Motorsports • Casper, WY • 307-234-4944

Shan

shan@tandenews.com

THE LOOP

News and Culture From The World Of Trials, Offroad and Extreme Racing

PHIL ON THE MEND

On May 25 Phil Smage was filming for Action Figures the movie 2 and attempted a world record jump on a UTV. He overshot the landing rolling the razor several times. Upon impact Phil felt no pain and understood that meant he was paralyzed. He was life flighted to Knoxville where he had his C3-C7 fused and was diagnosed as an “incomplete quadriplegic” (right before surgery he wiggled his toe, this makes it incomplete as he has feeling/movement beneath the area of injury) as well as a broken collarbone and ribs. After a couple of weeks in Tennessee Road 2 Recovery and Charity Air flew him to his home state of Wisconsin where he is currently doing inpatient rehabilitation at a spinal cord center. In typical Phil fashion he is already crushing the goals therapists have set for him. Every spinal cord injury is different so there’s no telling where he’ll end up but he is working hard everyday to insure the best possible outcome.

Link: https://road2recovery.com/cause-view/philsmage/

CODY WEBB INJURED

FMF KTM Factory Racing’s Cody Webb is out of the 2018 Erzbergrodeo after sustaining a broken foot and a broken finger in a crash during day two of the Prologue. The extreme Red Bull Hare Scramble, held in Austria, serves as Round 2 of the 2018 World Enduro Super Series (WESS) in which Webb was slated to compete in alongside his European Red Bull KTM Factory Racing teammates.

“After qualifying 10th, I went out for the second day of the Prologue and really early on, it was rough and I hit a rock or something and basically swapped really bad and fell off the bike,” said Webb. I did the best I could

to hold on and saved it but ultimately, I went down. It’s just really unfortunate that it wasn’t even a super big crash but it ended up breaking my foot and my finger, and somehow the bike was completely unscathed. At this point, I’m looking forward to healing up now and making the best of it.”

Webb had high hopes on attempting to become the first American rider to be crowned Erzberg Champion. Finishing as runner-up in 2016 and then third in 2017, the 2018 SuperEnduro World Champion was looking forward to trying his bid at the 24th running of the extreme event. n

Photos

US TdN TEAMS ANNOUCED

The riders that will represent the United States at this year’s Trial des Nations were announced at the Tennessee round of the US National MotoTrials Series. On the men’s team will be Pat Smage, Sam Fastle and Daniel Blanc-Gonnet. The women’s team will consist of Maddie Hoover, Laura Peters and Kylee Sweeten (not pictured). This year’s TdN will take place on September 22-23, 2018 in Sokolov in the Czech Republic.

BERNIE RETURNS

America’s only World Trials Champion, Bernie Schreiber, competed in the recent Westmorland MC Bultaco Revival Nostalgia Trial held in Sedbergh in Cumbria, Great Britain. Joining Bernie in the vintage event were former World Champion Yrjo Vesterinen and four-time Spanish Champion Manuel Soler. This marked Bernie’s first time to compete on British soil in 30 years.

U.S. ISDE TEAMS

ANNOUNCED

The American Motorcyclist Association today announced the 10 trophy team riders selected to represent the United States in the 2018 FIM International Six Days Enduro in Vina Del Mar, Chile, Nov. 12-17.

The riders will compete as the U.S. World Trophy, Junior World Trophy and Women’s World Trophy teams.

“The U.S. World Trophy Team had a tough outing in 2017, because of an injury on the first day of competition, so we are looking forward to the opportunity to regain the championship the U.S. team won in 2016,” said AMA Director of Racing Kevin Crowther. “We are eager to head for Chile with this group of talented riders. And I am confident these individuals will be competitive at the highest level and demonstrate America’s determination and conviction during this competition.”

The U.S. World Trophy and Junior World trophy teams have been managed by KTM USA’s Off-Road Manager Antti Kallonen since 2012. Since 2017, Kallonen also has managed the U.S. Women’s World Trophy Team.

“I’m happy to be able to assemble all three teams with the riders [named above],” Kallonen said. “Most of the riders can go without any further introduction, as their past results prove their ability for Six Days type racing. But I’m especially pleased to have Zach on board. Although he is new to Six Days, he has proven his speed in off road racing and is riding a two-stroke bike very well, which landed him the spot in the E3 class. It is not easy to find a fast rider that races regularly on a 500 fourstroke or 300 two-stroke in the United States. So, to find a rider like Zach will be a great benefit to the team.”

Kallonen said he is ready to begin preparing the teams for the November competition.

The 2018 U.S. World Trophy Team includes: Ryan Sipes, of Flaherty, Ky., on a Husqvarna FE 250; Taylor Robert, of Rio Verde, Ariz., riding a KTM 450 XC-F; Kailub Russell, of Boonville, N.C., on a KTM 450 XC-F; and Zach Bell, of Beaumont, Calif., riding a Husqvarna TX 300.

Sipes was the 2015 ISDE overall winner. Robert was the 2016 ISDE overall winner. Russell is a five-time GNCC champion. And Bell is a standout motocrosser turned off-road racer

and AMA District 37 Big 6 Grand Prix Series champion.

The 2017 U.S. World Trophy Team finished a 16th among the 19 countries competing. Robert won the E3 class in 2017 and finished third overall individually. Sipes was 2017 runner-up in E1 and finished fifth overall individually.

The 2018 U.S. Junior World Trophy Team, made up of riders age 23 and younger includes: Josh Toth, of Winsted, Conn., on a KTM 250 XC-F; Grant Baylor, of Belton, S.C., riding a KTM 450 XC-F; and Ben Kelley, of Burlington, Conn., on a KTM 350 XC-F.

Baylor and Toth were also on the 2017 team. Baylor finished 13th in E2 and 31st overall. Toth finished 14th in E1 and 41st overall.

The 2018 U.S. Women’s World Trophy Team includes: Tarah Gieger, of Winter Garden, Fla., on a Honda CRF250R; Brandy Richards, of Lake Havasu City, Ariz., riding a KTM 350 XC-F; and Becca Sheets, of Circleville, Ohio, on a KTM 250 XC-F.

Richards and Sheets were on the 2017 team, which finished second behind five-time winner Australia. And the U.S. team bested the Australians in the last two days of competition.

These riders will be joined by 21 Club Team riders at the ISDE.

Riders at the ISDE compete in one of three displacement classes. The E1 class features 100cc to 125cc two-stroke and 175cc to 250cc four-stroke motorcycles. The E2 class features 175cc to 250cc two-stroke and 290cc to 450cc four-stroke motorcycles. The E3 class features 290cc to 500cc two-stroke and 475cc to 650cc four-stroke motorcycles.

Supporting the ISDE effort is ISDE team physician, Dr. James McGee.

Fans can show their support by buying ISDE U.S. team apparel at www.amagear.com (search “ISDE”).

ISDE CLUB TEAMS

Twenty-one riders have been named to the Club teams that will represent the United States in the 2018 FIM International Six Days Enduro in Vina Del Mar, Chile, Nov. 12-17.

Qualification for the Club teams involved two, three-round series, with western races in Arizona, California and Idaho and eastern races in Florida, Michigan and Virginia.

The top seven riders, plus one senior rider, in each series qualified for the ISDE Club teams. Additional Club team riders were chosen by the U.S. ISDE Committee, based on their series participation and individual event results.

“I’m very happy with the 2018 U.S. ISDE Club team qualifiers and picks this season, with a

great cross section of the best riders from the entire country,” said AMA Off-Road Racing Manager Erek Kudla. “We did very well in Chile last time the event was held there, in 2007, with Kurt Caselli becoming the first American to lead a day. The U.S. Women’s Trophy Team took the win that year, so we’re looking forward to another great year in South America.”

The qualifying riders will be organized into teams, which will be announced as the event gets closer.

The Club teams join the U.S. World Trophy Team, the U.S. Junior World Trophy Team and the U.S. Women’s World Trophy Team for the ISDE competition. The World Trophy teams

were announced May 30.

From the West

Riders who qualified in western states events are Ty Tremaine, of Gardnerville, Nev.; Jake “JT” Baker, of Shingle Springs, Calif.; Kendall Norman, of El Cajon, Calif.; Ryan Smith, of Pinon Hills, Calif.; Ryan Kudla, of Upland, Calif.; A. Jared Schlapia, of Nampa, Idaho; and Dante Oliveira, of Hollister, Calif.

In the E4 40+ Class, multi-time gold medalist and five-time AMA National Hare and Hound Champion Destry Abbott, of Peoria, Ariz., joins the team.

From the East

Riders qualifying from the eastern states competitions are Tyler Vore, Porter, Ind.; James King, of Hot Springs, Ark.; A.J. Lehr, of San Carlos, Calif.; P. Trent Whisenant, of Hoover,

Ala.; Drew Lehr, of San Carlos, Calif.; and Talon Soenksen, of Fife Lake, Mich.

“ISDE has been a dream of mine for a very long time,” said first-time qualifier James King. “And it’s an honor and a privilege to represent my sport and our great country overseas. I’m going to give it my all alongside my teammates.”

In the E4 40+ Class, Jayson Densley, of Fairfield, Utah, won every round he entered, qualifying him to join the team.

Committee selections

The U.S. ISDE Committee selected Adam Froman, of Crestwood, Ky.; Travis Coy, of Pleasanton, Calif.; Colton Wilkes, of Poland, Ind.; Nicholas O’Bryant, of Chillicothe, Ohio; and Cooper Abbott, of Peoria, Ariz.

Joining the E4 team for his 15th ISDE is Brian Storrie, of McKinney, Texas.

NEPG AMATEUR SPOTLIGHT

BEN PARSONS

Age: 20

Hometown: Orlando, Florida

Local Series: Florida Trail Riders

Class: AA

Bike: Husqvarna FC450

Sponsors (if applicable): Seat Concepts, Pro Circuit, FXR Racing, HBD graphics, IMS, Cycra, Sidi, Bell, Rekluse, 100% Goggles, Mobius, and of course my Mom, Dad, and all my other family for all they do for me as well!

Small description as to why you chose to race the Kenda AMA National Enduro Series: I choose to race the National Enduro Series for a couple reasons. For one, it is known as such a prestigious series throughout the off-road industry, so it is really cool for me as a rider to be a small part of that each weekend! And two, I really think it makes you a better rider all around, helps you sharpen your skills for different disciplines of racing as well.

Your favorite race so far: Favorite race has been the Dragons Back in VA! Great trail and great dirt all day

Favorite moment on the National Enduro Series: That’s a tough one, but I would have to say the first test of the day at the at the Oklahoma, Zink Ranch Emduro last year, I really enjoyed racing where the ISDE was once held, and earned my best overall on a test with 7th OA there.

MECATECNO

DESIGN REPORT

* THE FOLLOWING IS A REPORT FROM THE MECATECNO FACTORY:

Mecatecno has designed the Dragonfly with a clear idea in mind: to bring together the capabilities of a termic bike and the benefits of a green technology by building the lightest, easiest and less demanding trials motorbike we could imagine. To achieve it, we have put into practice a number of innovations, developed 100% by our engineering team. These design and innovation concepts have been developed and tested according to our idea of Electric Trial practice. We invite you to know more about it in four design report issues. This is he first one.

CONCEPT: IMA

(independent motor assembly)

SPECS:

Motor: BLDC 15Kw, 48V, oil cooled.

Gearbox: 5 speed.

Clutch: Multidisc hydraulic spring system.

DESCRIPTION:

IMA is a system that divides the power train in two differentiated blocks: the electric motor, and the gear/clutch box.

GENERAL BENEFITS

*INDEPENDENT MOTOR: This architecture allows a clean and more convenient motor maintenance, better electric isolation, and a very fast “in-race” motor replacement in case of failure.

*SPRING MULTIDISC CLUTCH vs DIAPHRAGM: Although it is three times heavier, we have shifted from the former diaphragm clutch to a spring one because it provides a better control, higher precision, higher inertial properties and more setting possibilities. This turns into a more sensible control in classic riding style or a faster response in modern riding style, depending upon the chosen setting.

*5 SPEED GEARBOX vs SINGLE SPEED: Including 5 speed allows a higher control in sections and a more comfortable ride in intersections. It has also a direct impact on energy savings.

CONCEPT:

CFA

(combined frame assembly)

SPECS:

Main frame: ø18mm CroMoly tube.

Side tie bars: CNC milled 6086 T6 Aluminium.

Skid plate: 6mm 7075 T6 Aluminium.

Structural motor plate: CNC milled 7075 T6 Aluminium.

Anti twist skid plate clamps: 6082 T6 Aluminium.

DESCRIPTION:

CFA is a system designed to take full advantage of the electric propulsion. This means in other words, not having to stick to the geometric rules of the thermic bikes.

In general terms, a thermic bike frame has to be structural by itself. All elements are hooked to it, and it is subject to a great deal of weight, tensions and constant vibrations. As opposed, the Dragonfly frame is not structural by itself. Like the human body, in which the bones wouldn’t stay in place if they weren’t tightened by the muscles, all the surrounding elements participate structurally adding strength where it is requested. This concept, together with the fact that the number of elements is much less, quite lighter and free of vibrations, allow a great deal of benefits. These are some of them:

• General reduction of tubular frame weight and dimensions.

• Better distribution of the suspended mass and better placement of the center of gravity that has a direct impact on stability, balance and weight sensation.

• Great control over frame rigidity with hi impact strength on the central area, and controlled torsion close to the steering pipe that allows for a smoother riding.

• Reduction of skid plate area and dimensions that has a direct impact on the part strength.

• Simplification of assembly steps that has a direct impact on the motorbike maintenance.

CONCEPT: CMBP

(centered mass battery positioning)

DESCRIPTION:

At first glance, the main perceived feature is a very accessible, easy to replace yet protected battery, but there is much more at play.

In an electric motorcycle, the battery pack is the heaviest suspended element. Hence, it plays a determinant role in both behavior and performance of the bike. In other words, a same weight put here o there, can make the bike feel lighter or much heavier, can help an easy and precise riding or make it feel like riding a wild horse.

Our goal: to achieve the most precise, easiest and less demanding ride the possible. To achieve it we decided to distribute the mass alongside the frame and swing-arm length, moving its center of gravity the closer to the wheel axis the possible.

The result has been an unprecedented mix:

• Increase of stability and balance

• Increase of lightness feeling

• Increase of traction on rear wheel

2019 BETA RR

The new 2019 Beta models arrive on the market with a broader range than in previous years. The Italian manufacturer has not only been working hard refining their current model range but also has developed an all new model, the 200 RR! A 2-stroke that, following the recent introduction of the 125 cc, completes the product range which now features no less than twelve different models between the RR and RR-S lineup. The Beta philosophy is to make sure each engine size has its own distinct personality so as to meet the

specific needs of every Off Road and Dual Sport rider.

Given the engine size and low weight, the newly arrived 200 RR has inherited the chassis set-up of the 125. More specifically, the frame, in chrome molybdenum with double cradle split above the exhaust port, has been designed for small engine displacements. It features revised main dimensions and ensures optimal engine positioning. The chassis, an offspring of its smaller 125cc sister and is characterized by a special layout that aims to optimize

2019 Beta 200 RR

weight distribution and engine dynamics. This is not a model designed for extreme racing: however, thanks to the introduction of the automatic oil injector and the electric start, it’s a great allaround bike for those looking for some epic Enduro or Off-Road free time fun.

There has been no lack of upgrades across the existing range either, with improvements stemming from extensive race experience: in the last two years Beta has won two EnduroGP Constructors’ World Championships, an Enduro3 World Title and EnduroGP title with Steve Holcombe, an Enduro Junior World Title with Brad Freeman and two wins in the Assoluti d’Italia as well as Beta USA’s Max Gerston winning the AMA Hare Scramble Championship. Work has focused on both the engine and the chassis setup, with particular

attention being paid to the suspension - front and rear - now fitted with topdrawer ZF Sachs components which are much more advanced than those used in the past in that adjustments can be made with no tools needed.

2019 RR & RR-S Models

An even more advanced, complete range with the addition of the 200 RR

The new 2019 Beta models arrive on the market with a broader range than in previous years. The Italian manufacturer has not only been working hard refining their current model range but also has developed an all new model, the 200 RR!

A 2-stroke that, following the recent introduction of the 125 cc, completes the product range which now features no less than twelve

2019 Beta 125 RR

different models between the RR and RR-S lineup. The Beta philosophy is to make sure each engine size has its own distinct personality so as to meet the specific needs of every Off Road and Dual Sport rider.

Given the engine size and low weight, the newly arrived 200 RR has inherited the chassis set-up of the 125. More specifically, the frame, in chrome molybdenum with double cradle split above the exhaust port, has been designed for small engine displacements. It features revised main dimensions and ensures optimal engine positioning. The chassis, an offspring of its smaller 125cc sister and is characterized by a

special layout that aims to optimize weight distribution and engine dynamics. This is not a model designed for extreme racing: however, thanks to the introduction of the automatic oil injector and the electric start, it’s a great allaround bike for those looking for some epic Enduro or Off-Road free time fun.

There has been no lack of upgrades across the existing range either, with improvements stemming from extensive race experience: in the last two years Beta has won two EnduroGP Constructors’ World Championships, an Enduro3 World Title and EnduroGP title with Steve Holcombe, an Enduro Junior World Title with Brad Freeman and two

2019 Beta 250 RR

wins in the Assoluti d’Italia as well as Beta USA’s Max Gerston winning the AMA Hare Scramble Championship.

Work has focused on both the engine and the chassis setup, with particular attention being paid to the suspension - front and rear - now fitted with topdrawer ZF Sachs components which are much more advanced than those used in the past in that adjustments can be made with no tools needed.

KEY RR MODEL FEATURES: 2-STROKE

125, 200, 250, 300

The smallest bike in the Beta range, the lightest and easiest to handle of them all. In pure racing style, suitable for both young riders coming up from the lower categories and more expert riders looking for a fun bike.

The chassis and engine design derive from its smaller sister the 125, while providing broader torque and ensuring extremely low weight and great handling but with decidedly higher torque and power. Oil injection and electric start make this a complete bike that is just perfect for Off Road enthusiasts of all ages and ability.

Ideal for those looking for a gentler 2-stroke bike with slightly less power and torque than the top-of-the-range models to ensure excellent handling. Offers a lighter feel overall from the 300 RR models.

Made for those who like big-displacement engines with outstanding torque at any rpm. The perfect bike for those

who enjoy riding long distances on smooth or fast terrain.

4-STROKE

350, 390, 430, 500

This is the easiest-to-handle bike in the 4-stroke model range; it favors high-rev riding while providing a very linear power output.

An engine with no competition, the 390 feels like a 350 yet offers more torque with less shifting. A true allaround bike that is creating a class of its own.

High performance engine that appeals to all riders looking for a 450 class bike. Quick-revving with plenty of torque provides both play riders and top level racers a package that will meet their demands

This bike expresses itself best in wide open spaces. Its characteristics are similar to the 430 model but with even higher torque and power and requires less shifting. Great for long excursions.

2019 BETA 200 RR

200 RR 2-Stroke:  Engine

• Double piston rings (54 mm): component designed to ensure high rigidity and reliability; the choice of double rings provides a better seal at the low and medium revs that are better suited for Off Road trail riding.

• Beta progressive valve: This exclusive system allows a broad power de -

2019 Beta 300 RR

livery due to the special timing of the opening of the main flap and that of the side boosters. The delayed opening of the boosters enables excellent performance and linear power throughout the engine’s rpm range.

• Crankshaft with polyamide inserts: favors lightness and ensures optimum filling of the crankcase, boosting performance and reliability.

• Cylinder: has an exhaust flange system as on the bigger engines, enabling better control of frontal piston-flapcylinder play. By keeping this value to a minimum it is possible to achieve a significant low-rev performance boost by reducing exhaust gas leakage.

• Aluminum demountable cylinder head dome: rigid and lightweight solution made possible by shifting the

engine mount on to the cylinder. The geometry of the combustion chamber is designed to ensure a high-efficiency thermodynamic cycle and obtain the best compromise between responsiveness at low-to-medium revs and during spurts. It also facilitates fine tuning and replacement of the combustion chamber.

• Die-cast crankcase in aluminum alloy: the casing geometries were designed according to an innovative layout in terms of the relative position of components and with a view to maximize weight reduction without compromising structural strength. Considerable attention was focused on the main bearing area to ensure correct wall rigidity in order to withstand the stresses transmitted by the crankshaft.

• Die-cast crankcase covers in magnesium alloy: ensure very low weight and optimal surface finish. It also proved possible to adopt this solution for the inner clutch cover thanks to isolation of the water pump from this element.

• Vforce4 reed valve packet: the stoppers ensure high reliability without compromising performance.

• 6-speed dog-box transmission: specially developed for small Beta engines with gears made from forged blanks to provide mechanical strength and reliability while still keeping size and weight extremely low.

• Clutch: multi-disc in oil bath with reverse opening, actuator integrated into the outer cover. This is a system designed for maximum engine lightness and compactness. Thanks to low-slung positioning, it ensures reduction of power unit size and a significant centralization of weight, crucial for good chassis dynamics.

• Exhaust system: to optimize the 2-stroke engine’s torque and power curves, the Beta R&D Department has developed a special system dedicated to this engine size.

• Electric start: perfect start-up convenience whatever the situation. (Back-Up kick starter option available as an accessory)

• Automatic oil injection: eliminates the need for a fuel-oil premix.

CHASSIS

• Updated Steering Head Design:

various solutions were investigated and developed before reaching a final one that has allowed a reduction in enginegenerated vibration while maintaining good engine-frame system stiffness.

• Sachs Suspension: derived from the rest of the RR range but with its own settings. At the front there is an opencartridge fork of 48 mm diameter.

• Filter box air boot: designed for this engine type, it improves flow across the entire rev range, even at low revs.

• Skid Plate: made from tough yet light polyamide, it features excellent shielding to stop mud getting between the engine and the guard itself.

• Fuel tank: compared to larger models, a slightly smaller tank has been adopted to improve on-board ergonomics while maintaining good fuel autonomy.

• Cooling system: specifically designed for this bike, features new hoses and radiators with specially shaped reservoirs to fit the small size of the motorcycle.

• Nissin braking system: extremely powerful and configurable, the same as on the rest of the Enduro range. n

2018 GAS GAS TXT

A

look at this year’s

TXT GP lineup

Photos by Don Williams

Now in its second year under the ownership of Torrot Electric, Gas Gas appears to have regained it’s status as one of the leading manufacturers of trials motorcycles in the world. For 2018, Gas Gas produced four TXT GP models ranging in size from 300, 280, 250 and 125. Modifications made to the TXT GP models for this year include a new cylinder head with inserts for different compression ratios, a Boyesen carbon fiber reed valve, and a titanium header pipe. Other improvements include a new dual-spark CDI unit and ignition coils made by Hidria; plus adjustable clutch preload so a rider can customize the feel of the clutch. For 2018, the TXT GP models run Öhlins forks and Tech rear shocks.

Gas Gas currently offers trials bikes for the three major trials markets: junior riders (Gas Gas Trial TXT Racing 80/School 125), entry level (Contact ES 250/280) and advanced to pro level riders (TXT GP 250/280/300). Here’s a quick rundown of the models and their main features.

TXT RACING 80 ($4999)

The TXT Racing 80 model is basically a scaled down version of the TXT full-sized models and it is intended for experienced youth riders. The Racing 80 features a new engine based on its big brothers and features a new piston, crank-shaft, primary drive sprocket and Hidria magnetic flywheel. The TXT Racing 80 has the same tubular moly-chrome steel frame that has already been tried and tested in the Gas Gas TXT models which gives this little trial bike a quality and reliability. Other changes include the incorporation of foot-pegs positioned further forward and slightly higher so children can have a better posture on the bike and reach the handlebar and the brake and clutch levers more easily, giving a better sense of safety and control.

These new characteristics are added to the adaptation of the swing-arm, which has been shortened together with the wheels that have been made smaller with 19” on the front and 17” on the back. This bike also takes the lower weight of its rider into account and so has new front forks and a rear monoshock specifically designed for this model allowing for the lower weight.

The Gas Gas Contact is designed as an entry level bike. This year’s model now features electric start. A new 3.5 litre tank has been fitted with a larger capacity than the trial bikes, also a padded seat is standard, hiding a new battery underneath. These are just some of the new features on this model showing great stability and traction thanks in part due to a slight increase in weight but also because of the new Mitas tires.

New components add to the great quality: New Braktec clutch and brake pistons, NG brake discs (front and back) and switchgear (including lights, starter, indicators and OBD). They are going to make the new Gas Gas Trial Contact Electric Start our very best friend to share great times together with when we are out and about. Simplicity is the key to success and for this reason the new Trial Contact counts with pre-adjusted front forks as standard and a rear shock absorber with pre-load and progressive link swing arm to smooth the way for riders aiming for just the right settings to get 100% out of their mountain rides.

The TXT GP range is a limited series committed to excellence and the highest quality of its components to offer trials riders the sensations and the feel of an authentic Grand Prix trial bike. The new Gas Gas TXT GP 2018 goes to great lengths in the complex matter of balance with the addition of a new Tech front fork and Öhlins rear shock absorber. A gold color suspension set-up, passed down directly from the racing department, which adopts new springs and adjusters offer additional stability and traction to this model.

The list of new parts increases when we go into the details of the bike and especially of its engine, with the incorporation of Boyesen carbon reeds, dual spark CDI and closed-core coil - both signed by Hidria- and a new air filter box, also made in carbon fiber, which contributes to a greater gas flow throughout. There are also improvements in torque at both, low and medium revs, greater than ever in this Gas Gas TXT GP. A new cylinder head and cylinder head insert system allows an even greater increase in the compression of the engine, accentuating its competition behavior.

THE GOODS

TXT 300

ENGINE Single-cylinder 2-stroke, liquid cooled

DISPLACEMENT 294,1 cc

BORE X STROKE 79 x 60 mm

GEARBOX 6 speed gearbox with GG 4/6 technology

CLUTCH GG 1/3 hydraulic-diaphragm-system

ADMISSION Carburettor and admission by reed valve

FRAME Chrom-Molybdenum tubular frame

SWINGARM Aluminium, Progressive linkage system

FRONT FORK TECH with aluminium bar Ø 39, 180mm of travel

Rebound, compression, end stroke and spring preload

SHOCK ÖHLINS hydraulic mono shock absorber (2 ways)

Rebound and spring pre-load ajustable.

TRAVEL 167 mm rear wheel travel

RIM In aluminium with spokes

TIRE Front: 1.6 x 21 - Michelin Trial X11 2.75 x 21

TIRE Rear: 2.15 x 18 - Michelin Trial X11 4.00 x 18 TL

FRONT BRAKE 185mm disc WAVE floating, monoblock 4 pistons BRAKTEC caliper

REAR BRAKE 150mm disc NG WAVE, autostand system 2 pistons BRAKTEC caliper

DRY WEIGHT 67,5 kg

DIMENSIONS Length x width x height: 2.010 x 825 x 1.130 mm

WHEELBASE 1.320 mm

SEATHEIGHT 630 mm

Cody’s Webb

A column by EnduroCross

Champion Cody Webb

Photos Courtesy

Irina Gorodnyakova / Red Bull Content

Hey everyone! Hope all has been good since my last update. I’m currently chilling on the couch at home with my foot in the air and an ice pack around my knee. Figured it would be a good time to write my article and catch you all back up to speed on what I’ve been up to. Last time I discussed the SuperEnduro championship and I was able to pull off that championship. It was my first ever FIM World Championship and I was so ecstatic to bring it home! It was a close one and to be honest I didn’t ride great in the final round. Luckily, it’s the whole season that counts and I was honored to put it all together.

From winning the SuperEnduro championship, I basically went straight to Argentina for a one off Endurocross race in conjunction with MotoGP. It was really fun heading down there without all the pressure from SuperEnduro weighing down on me. After that, it was directly into prepping for some of the hard endures and the World Enduro Super Series (WESS). I was really excited for that new season to start up and knew it was going to be keeping me busy. The WESS was going to be a whole new challenge for me, it includes hard enduro, classic enduro, harescrambles, and even a beach race. The whole premise behind it is to see who can claim being the ultimate enduro champion at the end of the year. You have to be nearly an expert at all of these events to be consistent enough to claim the grand prize.

The first round in Portugal was XL Lagares, and what an awesome race that was. I couldn’t believe some of the places we were getting to ride out there! The prologue through town was a crazy experience. I know many of you have probably seen the gopro footage, but until you actually walk the stairs and ride them, you have no idea how steep they truly are. I was feeling confident for the race and excited to see how I would do, unfortunately I took a big tumble over the bars in practice. I jacked my helmet all up and messed up my neck and upper back. I went straight to the medics just to make sure I was alright. Luckily, I was fine, but was super sore leading up to the race and made it only tougher on myself. I qualified well and was the second rider out on the course. I was just riding stiff in the beginning and making small mistakes like making a couple wrong turns and riding timid in the extremely slippery creeks because I couldn’t see where I was going and there was a ton of deep holes. I lost a lot of ground that first lap and knew I had to make it up on lap 2. I charged really hard that whole lap and basically sprinted that whole time. I made up ground on the leaders, but then got hung up super bad with lappers in a tight section of the course. There went all the time I had made up. I kept pushing to the finish and actually caught and passed Jarvis back, but rode the last obstacle like an idiot and it took me a few tries to get up it. I ended the day in 6th, which

wasn’t my best finish, but I honestly felt really happy with my riding and knew what I had to work on leading up to round 2 at Erzberg.

I was really excited to make my return to the Iron Giant and I had a couple really good training days with Cory Graffunder and Kyle Redmond leading up to it. After walking parts of the course all week, I felt like I had it in me to step on top of the podium at the finish. My bike in Europe had been really working awesome and I had the confidence to make it happen. I qualified day 1 of the prologue quite well, finishing in 10th. A lot better than that previous year when I barely cracked the top 40. I didn’t even need to go out on day 2 and actually debated forfeiting my run to go do more walking. Well, I suited up anyways because I’m a competitor at heart and crashed super hard within a minute of my run. I swapped badly at high speed on a rocky section of the course. I jumped to my feet amazed I wasn’t badly injured and kept making my way up the mountain. Right away I knew I messed myself up pretty bad because I was in quite a bit of pain. Further up the mountain, I stood up through a rough section and instantly sat back down because I could tell I had jacked up my knee. I’ve never had a serious knee injury before and you can tell right away when something has gone wrong. Not long after that was when I figured my foot was probably broken again as well. After making the long trek to the top on the prologue roads, I cruised back to the paddock

and changed into normal street clothes to go get checked out by the medics again (two races in a row). My mechanic, Robbie Goolsby, drove me to the hospital and I ended up breaking my foot, finger, and had some internal knee damage. I was so bummed that my shot at Erzberg had ended and I felt bad that I had not only let myself down, but everyone back home in the states as well.

Once I got home, which was extremely tough, I went to a few specialists and I ended up tearing my MCL. Luckily no surgery was required and now I’m here trying to heal. I’ve been quite bored so I ended up buying a vintage bike that I’ve been restoring. It’s helping pass the time and I really enjoy it. As for now, I’m just going to keep on healing and I plan on seeing everyone at the Tennessee Knockout in August. n

SMAGE RIDING TECHNIQUE PAT

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Sherco Tool Bag

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Ryan Young Products carries this handy Sherco Tool Bag.

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REACH NEW HEIGHTS

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ENDURO ENGINEERING SKID PLATES FOR BETA Max Sug. Retail: $109.95 Website: www.enduroeng.com

Enduro Engineering produces Full Coverage Aluminum Skid Plates for most current Off-Road Beta Motorcycles and Xtrainer models as well. Here at Enduro Engineering we make our skid plates strong. The full coverage gives you protection over frame rails, engine cases, engine covers, water pumps, and oil filters. All Enduro Engineering Skid Plates are precision cut, bent, and welded in house.

Beta USA Digital Camouflage Graphics

Max Sug. Retail: $219.99

Website: www.betausa.com

Beta USA recently announced that pre-sale of the digital camouflage graphics has now started, including graphics kits for 2018 Standard RR and Race Edition 2-stroke models; and 2018 RR-S and Race Edition 4-stroke models, as well as the 2018 Xtrainer. Available at your local Beta Dealer

IRON MAN

RED BULL ERZBERG RODEO HARE SCRAMBLE

GRAHAM JARVIS SECURES FOURTH

CAREER VICTORY AT ERZBERG’S

IRON GIANT

CODY WEBB DROPPED OUT OF THE EVENT ON SATURDAY WHEN HE BROKE HIS LEG AND INJURED HIS KNEE DURING THE PROLOUG SEGMENT.

Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s Graham Jarvis (GB) has claimed victory at round two of the World Enduro Super Series – the Erzbergrodeo Red Bull Hare Scramble. In what was a dramatic, actionpacked and unpredictable race, Jarvis put on a late race charge to take the win by just 41 seconds from Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Jonny Walker (GB) with early pace setter Manuel Lettenbichler (KTM – GER) finishing third.

Under sunny skies and hot temperatures, the 24th edition of the Erzbergrodeo Red Bull Hare Scramble saw the 500 qualified riders blast off the start line at 14.30 hours. With all the main contenders in this year’s WESS securing a front row start during qualification, it was Taddy Blazusiak (KTM - Poland) who made his move early, taking the lead. But with Walker hot on his heels, plus WESS round one winner Bill Bolt (Husqvarna - GB) and Lettenbichler right in contention, any hopes of breaking away from the chasing field were quickly ended.

During one of the early technical woodland sections, the young guns of Lettenbichler and Bolt moved past both Blazusiak and Walker to take up the lead. At Checkpoint 15 of 25, Lettenbichler and Bolt had built up a lead of one-minute over Walker while Sherco Factory Racing’s Wade Young overtook Blazusiak for fourth. However, with Checkpoint 19 forming the formidable Carl’s Dinner boulder garden, the race was anything but over. After a bad start, Jarvis was beginning to cut his way through the pack and was closing on the leaders.

At Checkpoint 21 - Green Hell - the race took another dramatic twist as both Lettenbichler and Bolt became stuck on the near-vertical woodland climb. Jarvis, now in third, heroically pushed his way past the stricken duo to the top and took the race lead. Walker, following suit, tried to apply pressure to the Husqvarna rider during the final two signature sections Dynamite and Lazy Noon but Jarvis kept his cool to cross the finish line in an astonishing time of two hours, five minutes and 59 seconds.

AFTER AN ENCOURAGING START, TADDY BLAZUSIAK FINISHED 8TH OVERALL

Winner of round two of the World Enduro Super Series, Jarvis also secured his fourth Erzbergrodeo Red Bull Hare Scramble victory. Finishing just 41 seconds behind, Walker claimed the runner-up result and in turn took control of the WESS championship standings.

Regrouping after the punishing Green Hell section, Lettenbichler was able to cross the finish line three minutes behind Jarvis in third, with Young coming home in fourth. Bolt, seeing his chance of winning lost in Green Hell, completed the top five. Passing both Blazusiak and Mario Roman (Sherco - Spain) in Green Hell, Beta Factory Racing’s Travis Teasdale (RSA) finished sixth with Paul Bolton (KTM - GB) seventh.

After a promising start, Blazusiak eventually ended his race in eighth. Securing another top 10 finish in WESS, Spain’s Pol Tarres (Husqvarna) took ninth with Roman dropping back to 10th in the closing stages of the race. In total 23 riders completed this year’s Erzbergrodeo Red Bull Hare Scramble within the four-hour allotted race time.

“It’s always special to win here, but to do it like I did, that ranks as one of my best victories,” said Jarvis. “I had a really bad start getting stuck on the very first climb out of the quarry and I lost so many places. Also, with the dust it was really difficult to overtake on the first couple of sections. It wasn’t until Checkpoint 15 that I got up to about sixth, but I knew Carl’s Dinner would be decisive. I made a lot of time up there. When I got to Green Hell I wasn’t quite sure what was happening but I saw Billy and Manni stuck. I got up so far and then was able to push the rest. That for me was where the race was won, but with Jonny chasing me home I couldn’t relax until the chequered flag.”

With the runner-up finish, Jonny Walker took over the point lead in the WESS standings.

“That was a tough race but I am happy to finish second and importantly take the lead in the WESS standings,” said Walker. “Taddy made a mistake and I got out in front, but then Manni and Billy passed me on a hill when I messed up a little. Their speed was way too quick and I knew I had to pace myself a little.

SHERCO’S WADE YOUNG PASSED TADDY BALZUSIAK LATE IN THE RACE TO FINISH FOURTH

Carl’s Dinner was tiring, but I kept up a steady rhythm and tried to minimise any mistakes. I managed to clear Green Hell and came out of there in second. The rest of the race from then on was less tricky and I pushed on as hard as I could but couldn’t quite catch Graham before the finish. I’m happy with second and although it would have been nice to take the win, it’s great to be leading the championship.”

RESULTS

1. Graham Jarvis (Husqvarna) 2:05:59

2. Jonny Walker (KTM) +00:41

3. Manuel Lettenbichler (KTM) +03:03

4. Wade Young (Sherco) +15:45

5. Billy Bolt (Husqvarna) +24:04

6. Travis Teasdale (Beta) +32:50

7. Paul Bolton (KTM) +33:41

8. Taddy Blazusiak (KTM) +35:52

9. Pol Tarres (Husqvarna) +48:41

10. Mario Roman (Sherco) +52:58

CODY WEBB

Preparing for Erzberg

Photo

During the last couple of seasons, FMF KTM Factory Racing’s Cody Webb has established himself as a formidable force in the Enduro world. Indoors he’s won titles on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean in EnduroCross and SuperEnduro, while outdoors he’s had podium results at Brazil’s Red Bull Minas Riders, Italy’s Hell’s Gate and twice at the Erzbergrodeo Red Bull Hare Scramble. Aiming to win the most prestigious race in Enduro, Webb only has thoughts of victory on his mind as the 24th edition of the event approaches.

“The Erzbergrodeo Red Bull Hare Scramble is huge for me,” tells Webb. “It is the most famous Enduro race in the world — everyone knows how gnarly the Iron Giant is — so to become the first American rider to actually win it would have to rank as a career highlight for me.”

First arriving at the Iron Giant back in 2014 with Beta Factory Racing, Webb claimed a top 10 result in his debut ride. Returning for more in 2016 with KTM, he came better prepared and with a greater understanding of what to expect. Catching many of the favourites by surprise, Cody charged his way to an emphatic runner-up result behind winner Graham Jarvis (Husqvarna - GB).

“In 2016 I finished as runner-up to Graham Jarvis,” continues Webb. “It was my first podium there and also the first for an American, too. The result took me by surprise a little, but I guess I had done my homework and was ready.”

Now established as one of the heavy hitters of the Erzbergrodeo Red Bull Hare Scramble, the question was raised in 2017 as to whether or not he could go one place better. With the world watching live on Red Bull TV, Webb battled with Jonny Walker (KTM - GB) for the lead during the first half of the race. Things were looking good, but then suddenly every-

thing ‘imploded from the inside out’ as Cody puts it…

“I’m not sure what happened, I guess I just wimped out,” he recalls. “I got so pumped up that I couldn’t pull the brake lever — it was like I imploded from the inside out. I let Graham by on one section and then let Wade Young by on a fire road section. I got to my mechanic at Carl’s Dinner and stopped. I had to take a time-out with him to try and destress because I knew I’d get hurt if I carried on the way I was.”

Despite the mid-race slump, he regrouped and came back strongly for third, but ultimately his shot at winning was lost. However, mistakes are there to be learned from and come this Sunday, June 3, he’s determined to right the wrongs of 12 months ago.

“I was happy with third because it’s such an exclusive podium to be on. But I’m a racer and a competitive person, so at the same time I was frustrated because I knew I’d let it slip away during the middle section of the race. This year the focus is on riding a mistake-free race — I don’t want to be upset knowing I could have done more.”

SIPES CASHES SIPES CASHES

AT JOLLY MINE FULL GAS SPRINT

RYAN SIPES GOT BACK ON TOP OF THE PODIUM IN OHIO

CASHES IN CASHES IN ENDURO

KENDA FULL GAS SPRINT ENDURO ROUND 4

JUNE 16-17

WELLSTON, OHIO

PHOTOS BY DARRIN CHAPMAN

After finishing third at the pervious round in Axton, Virginia, Rockstar/ Leatt/Maxxis Husqvarna’s Ryan Sipes returned to his winning form with a solid victory at the Jolly Mine Sprint Enduro this weekend, round four of the Kenda Full Gas Sprint Enduro Series in Wellston, Ohio.

Sipes returned to his usual M.O. en route to his most recent win, which consists of winning all of the Cross tests, and then hanging on for dear life in the Enduro tests. Sipes said afterwards that the Ohio race was his best yet when it comes to his times in the Enduro tests, and in fact, the Kentucky

rider actually won his first Enduro test of the season.

“I’m getting better at the Enduro tests with each race and I’m pleased that I was actually able to win one this weekend,” said Sipes. “I feel like I have a little more confidence in the woods and I’m actually hitting a few trees which is a sign that I’m pushing a little harder.”

Despite his improving times in the Enduro tests, Sipes almost threw it all away in the final Enduro test on Saturday.

“I was leading Steward Baylor by 14 seconds going into the final test of the day on Saturday and I fell over in a flat

JOSH STRANG ATTACKS ONE OF THE MAY OFF-CAMBERS

turn and it took me a while to get going,” said Sipes. “I ended up losing Saturday’s round by 1.4 seconds to Steward, which kind of bummed me out.”

In spite of his snafu on Saturday, Sipes won seven of the 12 tests over the course of the two-day event (all six Cross tests and one Enduro test) and took the overall win ahead of Grant Baylor by just over five seconds.

“It feels good to get back on top of the podium,” added Sipes. “I feel like I had a good day overall, except for that one tip-over.”

Steward Baylor topped two Enduro tests en route to Saturday’s win. How-

ever, the Tely Energy KTM rider injured his knee in the opening test on Sunday, which put a damper on his bid for the overall win.

“I was riding really good on Saturday and I think I could have repeated that performance on Sunday, but in the first test I was going through one of the off-camber turns, which we were running backwards, and I caught a rut with my front wheel and I jammed my foot into the ground,” said Baylor. “My knee swelled up pretty tight and I just had to coast for the rest of the day.”

Steward finished off the day in fourth and was fourth overall for the weekend.

GRANT BAYLOR

FINISHED SECOND OVERALL

BETA USA’S

JORDAN ASHBURN

Grant Baylor was the beneficiary of his brother’s bad luck and wound up in the runner-up slot for the weekend. The Tely Energy KTM rider won three Enduro tests in all, one on Saturday and two on Sunday, but didn’t exactly get off to the best of starts.

“I was going good in the first test of the weekend and then about six turns from the finish I went down in a fast turn and the bike slid a long way, so it took me a while to get to it and get going again,” said Grant. “Other than that one mistake, the rest of the weekend was pretty good; I think I was on pace with the rest of the guys.”

Josh Strang turned in a fast and con-

sistent performance to claim the final step of the podium in third. The Rockstar Energy Husqvarna rider was particularly fast in the Cross test.

“The grass track was really technical, there were a bunch off off-camber sections and you just had to be real patient,” said Strang. “Some of the dirt was dry but once you got on the gas and started to turn on it, it got really slick, which made it tricky. I felt like I was solid in both tests and it was a good weekend for me.”

With his third overall finish, Strang solidified his second place status in the series standings, seven points behind leader Sipes.

Fifth overall behind Steward Baylor was KR4 Husqvarna’s Cory Buttrick, who lives in nearby Logan, Ohio, and who was riding in front of a hometown audience. Ten seconds behind Buttrick was his KR4 Husqvarna teammate Layne Michael in sixth.

Beta USA’s Jordan Ashburn ran hot and cold in Ohio and eventually settled in seventh, 21 seconds ahead of SRT Racing’s Evan Smith.

KR4 Husqvarna’s Liam Draper won the Pro2 class with a ninth overall finish, while Coastal Racing Husqvarna’s Craig Delong rounded out the top 10.

Maryland KTM rider Billy Schlag fin-

ished second in the Pro2 class with a 12th overall finish, while Braxton McGee was third in the class and 13th overall on his Husqvarna.

Tayla Jones blitzed to the win in the Women’s Pro class. The KR4 Husqvarna rider was perfect on the weekend, winning all 12 of the tests.

“The tests were pretty technical but I was just on a hot streak,” said Jones. “I stayed upright for the most part and I really felt good on the bike all weekend.”

Bonanza Plumbing/Trail Jesters KTM’s Mackenzie Tricker was second in the Women’s Pro class, with Brooke Cosner

STEWARD BAYLOR WON SATURDAY’S ROUND BY 1.4 SECONDS

CORY BUTTRICK FINISHED

FIFTH OVERALL

finishing third on a Yamaha. North Carolina’s Conner Smith beat out Virginia’s Luke Ross and Indiana’s Alex Witkowski to win the Open A division, while local boy Devan Byer took top honors in the Lites A class ahead of Pennsylvania’s Dantae Ranieri and Virginiia’s Henry Symanski.

The Kenda Full Gas Sprint Enduro Series resumes action on July 14-15 for round five of the series in Fairmount, Pennsylvania. For more information on the series please got to www.sprintenduro.com.

OVERALL RESULTS

1. Ryan Sipes (Hsq)

2. Grant Baylor (KTM)

3. Josh Strang (Hsq)

4. Steward Baylor (KTM)

5. Cory Buttrick (Hsq)

6. Layne Michael (Hsq)

7. Jordan Ashburn (Bet)

8. Evan Smith (Hsq)

9. Liam Draper (Hsq)

10. Craig DeLong (Hsq)

TRIALS TRAINING CENTER TRIALS TRAINING CENTER

For

2018 Schedule

• March 17 - Down & Dirty Fat Tire Festival - Bicycle HardXC

• March 18 - Down & Dirty Fat Tire Festival - Bicycle Bone Breaker

• March 24-25 - Trials Training Days (All ages)

• March 31 - Downhill Southeast Bicycle Race - TTC Gravity Park

• May 26-28 - Dual Sport Adventure Ride

• June 9-10 - NATC East Coast Nationals Rounds 1 & 2

• June 24-27 - Family Camp (all ages)

• June 28-30 - East Coast Youth Nationals & Woman’s Open

• June 29 - TDN Fundraiser Gate Trial

• June 30 - Bicycle Trials Regional

• July 1-5 - Great American Teen Camp

• August 18-19 - 8th Annual KendaTennessee Knock Out Extreme Enduro

• September 8-9 - ITSA Vintage Trial National

• Sept/Oct TBA - 26th Annual 58K Fall Trial (STRA)

• October TBA - Downhill SE Bicycle Race - TTC Gravity Park

• December 2 - Toy Trial - CTC Winter Series Round 1 Trial

The T-18 (Dragonfly) is coming very soon. The first adult electric trials bike with a real clutch, 3-hr battery, gears and a weight of 120 lbs.

TRS Motorcycles

TRS ONE RR

ADAM RAGA RACING

USA DEALERS

Dirt Riders West - Mike Carlton, 800.467.0604, Scottsdale, AZ

Lewisport USA - Adrian & Mandy Lewis, 209.785.6878, Copperopolis, CA

Balance Trials Supply - Bill Haskell - 720.207.7715 - Erie, CO

Trial Store USA - Alex Niederer - 941.404.0757 - Bradenton, FL

Aloha Trials - Clayton Oshita, 808.822.2706, Kapaa, HI

Northwest Cycle - Ron Rivenburgh, 815.344.7780, McHenry, IL

Jack’s Cycles - Stuart Preston, 207.337.1274, South Berwick, ME

Competition Wheels - James McKenzie, 704.906.3238, Concord, NC

HVC Cycle - Brad Obidowski, 402.817.4795, Lincoln, NE

Miller Ranch Trials - Aaron & Andy Miller 607.765.8362 Corning, NY

Torne Mountain Trial - Jon France, 914.490.0637, Hillburn, NY

Adroit Engineering - Jon Rentschler, 440.668.3207, Chardon, OH

Gran Prix Cycle - Gary & Robyn Byers, 541.926.3139, Albany, OR

MotoMex - Danny Aguirre, 214.912.9005, Dallas, TX

Skagit Powersports - Gary Lawver, 360.757.7999, Burlington, WA

TTC - Charlie Roberts, 423.942.8688, Sequatchie, TN

TOUGH IN TENNESSEE

PAT SMAGE PADS HIS LEAD IN THE AMA/NATC US NATIONAL MOTOTRIALS SERIES WITH A DOUBLE VICTORY IN TENNESSEE

2018 AMA/NATC US NATIONAL MOTOTRIALS SERIES ROUNDS 5-6; JUNE 9-10, 2018; SEQUATCHIE, TENNESSEE

PAT SMAGE REMAINED UNDEFEATED FOR THE 2018 SEASON WITH A DOUBLE WIN IN TENNESSEE

Pat Smage continues to put distance on the competition in the 2018 AMA/NATC US National MotoTrials Series, having claimed his fifth and sixth victories of the season at rounds five and six of the series held this weekend at the Trials Training Center in Sequatchie, Tennessee.

Smage showed his expertise on the technical and slippery rocks of the Trials Training Center, winning Saturday’s event by 47 points and Sunday’s by 40 points.

On Saturday, Smage dropped five points on his first lap of 12 sections, but cut the damage to just two points on his second lap and a stingy single point on his final lap.

“Today’s event required pin-point accuracy and there was no room for mistake because of the technical nature of the sections, with all the jagged rocks scattered around,” said Smage. “The rocks were all jumbled up and if you missed your line at all then you got thrown off course and it ends up costing you a point or two to get back on line. This is a little bit different from the sections we saw in Colorado and New Mexico.”

Second on Saturday went to Gas Gas North America’s Alex Niederer, who came into the event a bit under the weather. The Florida rider posted

SAM FASTLE HAS A GO AT THE “LOG/ROCK” COMBINATION IN SECTION 11 ON SATURDAY.

ANDREAS NIEDERER FIGHTS FOR ALL THE TRACTION HE CAN FIND ON ONE OF THE SLIPPERY OUTCROPS.

loop scores of 23/15/17 for a total of 55.

Florida’s Karl Davis Jr. turned a few heads with his third place finish, since the Scorpa USA rider has been away from the series for nearly a year performing with Marvel Universe Live. Davis was just two points behind Niederer with an overall score of 57.

Another Gas Gas North America rider, Daniel Blanc-Gonnet, finished fourth, missing out on a podium finish by seven points with a total of 64. Meanwhile, Sherco USA’s Sam Fastle and Beta USA’s Andreas Niederer rounded out the top six with totals of 80 and 84, respectively.

Sunday’s event called for a light rain to move into the area, however it didn’t hit until most of the competitors where on their second lap, making for remarkably different conditions between the two laps.

Davis anticipated the slippery conditions and rode fast in order to get as many sections ridden in dry conditions as possible. The strategy paid off, and Davis was rewarded with an impressive runner-up finish behind Smage, who proved he is a master of all conditions by winning the event by 40 points over Davis.

“The course was tricky even when it was dry, and I had a crash early on the first lap, which kind of unsettled me,” said Smage. “When it started raining, it was like a completely different event. Some of the rocks were

DANIEL BLANC-GONNET WAS CONSISTENT WITH A PAIR OF FOURTH PLACE FINISHES IN TENNESSEE

like ice and there was no traction at all. When the sections are super technical to begin with and then you throw in changing conditions, then that takes a lot of concentration.

Overall, I had a few more mistakes than I’m happy with, but I had some good rides too so I have to be happy overall.”

Davis was pleased with second, but not surprised.

“I come into these events expecting to do well, but it did take a few sections on Saturday to get in the swing of things,” said Davis. “I knew it was going to rain on Sunday, so I jumped out in front and tried to get through the sections before the rain hit, and I made it all the way into the second lap before it did.”

Niederer and Blanc-Gonnet fought over the final step of the podium with Niederer getting the nod by a single point over Blanc-Gonnet, 86 points to 87 points.

“It was another good battle, we have been pretty evenly matched all year,” said Niederer, who was behind Blanc-Gonnet heading into Sunday’s final lap, but managed to eek ahead of his teammate.

Fastle was fifth once again, with Andreas Niederer in sixth.

Alex Myers, Drew Fortner and Josh Roper battled all weekend in the Expert class, with Fortner getting the win on Saturday ahead of Myers and Roper. On Sunday, Myers topped the standings ahead of Roper and Fortner.

JEROME GREGOROWICZ FLIES UP A STEEP CLIMB LEADING OUT OF ONE OF THE MANY CREEKS AT THE TRIALS TRAINING CENTER.

Chase Harker took the win on both days in the Expert Sportsman, with Payden Campbell and Jose Rivera Sr finishing second and third on Saturday. Jason Waldo and Rivera were second and third on Sunday.

Josh Packard took first in the Clubman class on Saturday, the biggest class of the weekend, with Dakota Dunman and Ron Hensley finishing second and third. On Sunday, Dunman was first, ahead of Packard and Hensley.

Sadie Webb won the Women’s class each day with Laura Peters finishing second.

RESULTS

SATURDAY

1. Pat Smage (Shr) 8

2. Alex Niederer (GG) 55

3. Karl Davis Jr. (Sco) 57

4. Daniel Blanc-Gonnet (GG) 64

5. Sam Fastle (Shr) 80

6. Andreas Niederer (Bet) 87

SUNDAY

1. Pat Smage (Shr) 37

2. Karl Davis Jr. (Sco) 77

3. Alex Niederer (GG) 86

4. Daniel Blanc-Gonnet (GG) 87

5. Sam Fastle (Shr) 112

6. Andreas Niederer (Bet) 126

PAT SMAGE CRITIQUES THE TENNESSEE SECTIONS

The sections were really technical, for the most part. They were all just kind of pinpoint, technical. A little bit slick but enough traction where you could stay on the points as long as you were on that one-inch line. Quite a few turning. Got a jumbled rock section. Some of them were moving, so it was really hard. You pick your line but then it kind of forces you off that line. It just took a lot of fight and strength to kind of wield the bike through it and keep it moving in some spots. It ended up being for the most part really technical. Just a couple with a few big hits, but nothing too crazy. Everything was pretty safe. A little different style than we’re used to, I guess. If you were an inch off your line you were pretty much going to find a hole or mess up the next part. It was real easy to take a point. It was hard not to turn it into a three also, be -

cause once you get off your line and find the holes sometimes you can’t really get out of them. It was really a lot of mental focus to try to stay on your line and really keep it moving through everything.

Number nine was probably the hardest. The entire thing was jumbled rocks. The middle part of it was really tricky with the one main pointed one. There were a few different lines to pick from, and I wasn’t too confident in any of them. So it took a few tries to finally get it clean the last loop, but I was happy to hold onto that one, even though it was very close to fiving and had to pull something out of nowhere and ended up doing a couple really big flip to just save myself. Just really wanted to clean that one to finish up the loop.

DEBRIEFED KARL DAVIS JR.

KARL DAVIS JR. TURNED IN SPECTACULAR PERFORMANCES IN BOTH TENNESSEE AND ARKANSAS, WITH SECOND AND THIRD PLACE FINISHES AT BOTH VENUES. ESPECIALLY CONSIDERING IT WAS HIS FIRST NATIONAL EVENT IN NEARLY A YEAR. KARL SPENDS MOST OF HIS TIME PERFORMING WITH MARVEL UNIVERSE LIVE, WHICH TRAVELS THE COUNTRY PEFFORMING IN MAJOR CITIES. WE SPOKE WITH KARL IN ARKANSAS ABOUT HIS RETURN TO THE US MOTOTRIALS SERIES.

Did you surprise yourself with your finishes the past two weeks?

It felt really good. Did it surprise me? Not really, because I always think that’s where I should be riding is right there with Alex and Daniel. I’ve been competing against them for years now. So I always expect to ride at their level or better. I never go in thinking that they can beat me. My goal is to beat them. Right now there’s no one really that close to Pat, so trying to fill that gap is where I want to be to try and get closer to Pat, he’s such an amazing rider. That’s what you want to shoot for.

How much practice have you been able to get in this year in-between your dates with Marvel Universe? Honestly, this year’s been the hardest to get practice in because the win-

ter was so rough. We were up in the Northeast for the entire winter. We were in cities with snow until April. I wasn’t able to ride that much at all. I probably had four or five times in on the bike over the course of five or six months. It’s not that much. As soon as I got on break for the tour, I had a couple weeks to get ready for the nationals, so I immediately drove out to Phoenix to ride with Daniel and really just get my confidence back up on the big, grippy rocks and hitting stuff. I just trained really hard that way. The one other thing I did over the winter that helps a lot is just work out. I trained a lot in the gym, just lifting weights and doing a lot of cardio stuff. Cross fit is kind of what I’ve been trying to move more towards. It’s a really fun way to stay fit. Just trying to stay as fit as I can off the bike.

DEBRIEFED KARL DAVIS JR.

Does this kind of get you excited about making a comeback?

Yeah. I always get excited just to come back to trials. I think that the tour I’m on right now, I kind of see the light at the end of the tunnel. I want to do one more year with it and then be done. I’m really motivated to train hard this next year and get my mind ready and my body ready. I really want to put in 100% effort into it like I haven’t been able to do before. I just want to attack it and see what I can do. Pat’s an amazing rider and it would be so cool just to get close to him and try and give him a challenge. I know he sits up there pretty high and almost alone. Trying to fill that gap is what I want to do.

I’m wondering if maybe it helped you a little bit being away because sometimes you can take a break and come back and then something clicks.

For sure. Sometimes I’ll find when I do come back from tour I’m almost stronger in some aspects of my riding. It’s just like the riding fitness you have to get back up to, time on the bike. So breaks do help.

Does performing with Marvel Universe help with your mental focus?

Yeah, it keeps you a little sharp, but we do them so many times it’s like I’m on autopilot. I don’t remember certain shows that I do because I’ve done probably close to 1,000 shows now of the same thing. I don’t think about it. I just go through the motions and do it. As far as that, the mental focus, that honestly was the hardest thing getting back into last weekend was focusing on trials and having a minute and a half in the section.

Does the travel get old?

Sometimes it does when we’re in crappy areas. All in all, I still enjoy traveling. It’s just a fun way to see the world and I’m getting paid to do it. I’ve love my Life right now. I can’t complain about it. I’m making money riding a motorcycle, traveling, seeing things that I’ll probably never get to see when I’m older. It’s an amazing experience to be able to have. I’ve made some really good relationships and have life-long friends on the show that I love and care for. The travel getting old, sometimes, but I’m still enjoying it. n

SMAGE AGAIN IN ARKANSAS

2018 AMA/NATC US NATIONAL MOTOTRIALS SERIES ROUNDS 7-8; JUNE 16-17, 2018; UNIONTOWN, ARKANSAS

PAT SMAGE ALL BUT WRAPPED UP HIS 10TH US NATIONAL MOTOTRIALS TITLE WITH A PAIR OF WINS IN ARKANSAS

ARKANSAS.

Pat Smage remained perfect in the 2018 AMA/NATC US National MotoTrials Series after adding his seventh and eighth wins of the season at rounds seven and eight of the series in Uniontown, Arkansas. With the wins, the Sherco USA rider closed in on a record-tying 10th U.S. national trials title, which will tie him with Geoff Aaron for the most U.S. trials titles.

Smage was relatively mistake-free in Arkansas, taking only three points total for the entire weekend, (two on Saturday and one on Sunday) to claim relatively easy wins over the best MotoTrials riders in the United States.

Extreme heat and high humidity was the main obstacle facing the Pro riders, as the sections were relatively easy compared to those ridden at the previous six rounds.

“The sections were on the easy side, which makes for a big mental challenge, especially when you consider that one mistake can ruin your entire day,” said Smage.

On Saturday, Smage was clean during the entire event, but then took single dabs in the last two sections for a total of two points for the day.

On Sunday, the Wisconsin rider took a single dab mid-way into his first lap and then remained perfect for the rest of the day.

“I think the organizers were kind of expecting the heat, which is why they set up the sections a little on the easy side,” said Smage. “It was a good event, and it really tested your mental ability.”

Behind Smage, Gas Gas North America’s Daniel Blanc-Gonnet and Scorpa USA’s Karl Davis Jr. waged a battle for second

KARL DAVIS JR. WENT 3-2 IN

DANIEL BLANC-GONNET SITS SECOND

OVERALL IN THE PRO STANDINGS AFTER GOING 2-3 IN ARKANSAS

and third place over the course of the two days, with Blanc-Gonnet taking the runners-up slot on Saturday and Davis taking the honors on Sunday.

Blanc-Gonnet turned in a stellar performance on Saturday, finishing just 12 marks off of Smage’s pace en route to second place, while Davis was inconsistent all day and finished up the event in third.

“I really fought hard all day to keep from taking points,” said Blanc-Gonnet. “There were only a few sections that were really tough so I knew I needed to pay attention to the little things. I had a decent first loop with seven points but then I came back with just two points on my second loop. On my third loop, I had points in the same spot as my second loop but then I made a mistake in the last section, which cost me a few more points. My 14 points ended up being the closest I’ve ever finished to Pat.”

Davis turned the tables on Sunday, turning in a solid performance for second place. Blanc-Gonnet, on the other hand, struggled with the heat, his second lap score ballooning to three times the amount of his first lap, leaving him third for the day.

“I don’t know what was up on Saturday, I made all kinds of mistakes, but I rode a lot better on Sunday and overall it was a good weekend, it’s good to be back with the series,” said Davis, who returned to the series last weekend in Tennessee after nearly a year’s absence.

Sam Fastle turned in some brilliant rides over the course of the two-day event, but too many fives left the Sherco USA rider with fourth each day, ahead of Beta USA’s Andreas Niederer, who has pushed the

HAILEY CLUBWOMAN

top pros this year in his first year in the class.

The Arkansas event marked the final round of the East Regional series for the support riders and GasGas North America’s Dalton Land was among the many Regional Champions crowned over the weekend, with his title coming in the Junior division. After winning both days in his class in Arkansas, Dalton ended up tied after four rounds for the class championship with Beta USA’s Cole Cullins, but won out in the tie-breaker to claim the title.

Arizona’s Josh Roper and Pennsylvania’s Alex Myers traded wins in the Expert division, with Roper taking the win on Saturday ahead of Myers and New Mexico’s Micah Hertrich.

Myers claimed the top spot on Sunday, ahead of Roper and Canada’s Jonathan English.

Texas rider Glenn Roblin was the low scoring rider on the All Support line on Saturday, finishing out the day with just seven points. Meanwhile, Colorado’s Chris Hertrich edged out Dalton Land for top honors on Sunday.

Dean Bechard and Scott Jordan topped the All Clubman line on Saturday and Sunday, while Jason Waldo of Illinois was top performer on each day on the All Expert Sportsman line.

Maddie Hoover remained undefeated in the Women’s Pro class, while Will Myers remained perfect in the 125 Expert class.

The AMA/NATC US National MotoTrials Series takes a 10-week break before resuming action at the series finale in Donner, California on September 1-2.

RESULTS

SATURDAY

1. Pat Smage (Shr) 2

2. Daniel Blanc-Gonnet (GG) 14

3. Karl Davis Jr. (Sco) 40

4. James Fastle (Shr) 49

5. Andreas Niederer (Bet) 59

SUNDAY

1. Pat Smage (Shr) 1

2. Karl Davis Jr. (Sco) 19

3. Daniel Blanc-Gonnet (GG) 29

4. Sam Fastle (Shr) 45

5. Andreas Niederer (Bet) 76

THE ADVENTURES OF A MOTOTRIALS CHECKER

EDITOR’S NOTE: Joel Honea is a member of the Oklahoma trials club NEOTT. Here is his account of his first experience working a national MotoTrials.

Saturday: I must admit the last few months have been arduous, fighting off ticks and enduring heat and humidity while whacking brush on rocky hillsides, but quite beneficial to my trials education. I have been to several nationals and a couple of world rounds, but to be this involved with a trials national was enlightening to say

the least. I was willing to do whatever I could to support the Arkansas round. And although I am quite familiar with a 5, (I collect them as if they would take me to heaven) I didn’t think I had enough experience to be a checker especially with so much on the line. It was soon apparent that I would indeed be pressed into service as a checker

due to the lack of response. In fact, as it turns out, the qualifications for being a checker for an NATC national seems to be that you are ambulatory, able to see clearly for a distance of 50 ft , and have at least 5 fingers on one hand. I soon found myself at the pinnacle of this exclusive club and was unceremoniously named “head” checker.

With much trepidation, Jackson and I took off for section 5, otherwise known as “ Robmaniacs”. We familiarized ourselves with each line and were looking forward as to how the pro’s would navigate their line. It seemed fairly difficult. My nervousness faded as we were invaded with an onslaught of Clubman riders. We made a couple of mistakes, but were corrected and the profanity subsided and no one suffered any undue penalty. Soon the experts were upon us, and the line that I thought would be challenging turned out to be fairly easy for them. Finally the first of the pro’s showed up including Pat Smage. They made short work of the black line. However, after the 3rd pro blasted up the 1st boulder that was embedded into the hillside, and looked like it would be there till the Lord came back, (about the size of ½ a Volkswagen), became loose. This prompted much concern, and as I tried to raise someone on the radio 3 riders pushed it off into the creek. Eldon arrived and soon it was determined that the Pro’s would be skipping our section the remainder of the day. Just my luck. And although we were cheated by not

getting to watch the best of the best it was a positive experience.

Sunday: I and my crew that consisted of Eldon’s offspring and his friend Brian, headed for section 4, otherwise known as Joel’s folly. Yes the undisputed master of the 5 had a section named after him! My reward for 2 & ½ months of toil and sweat. It was an awesome section and a lot of points were sacrificed there, and YES Maddie Hoover, if you are reading this: that WAS a 2! We had a couple of bad crashes, but fortunately no one was hurt. And let me say this, after all we went through to provide a challenging course you would think Mr Smage could at least give us a couple of dabs instead of blitzing through like it was nothing. I’m not convinced he is 100% human. How else can he be immune to the deleterious effects of gravity?

Overall it was a great experience and I learned volumes about the sport of trials. And I still am the undisputed king of the “5” by the way. Maybe someday I can check a world round. After all when they cuss me, I wouldn’t be able to understand them!

Joel Honea

FAJARDO EMERGES AS NEW TITLE CHALLENGER

Currently second in the 2018 TrialGP series Spain’s Jeroni Fajardo - Gas Gas has emerged as a real title challenger, so what do we know of the now thirty-three year old?

Jeroni can trace his love of Trial precisely back to February 1989 when, aged just three years old, his father took him to watch a round of the Spanish Trial Championship near his home in Pals in the North East of the country where he saw the legendary Jordi Tarres in action.

In common with so many of his compatri-

ots, his first taste of competition was riding bike-trial where he won two World titles. His undisputed talent was clear for all to see and inevitably he exchanged pedals for petrol, but it was not until 2003 before he graduated to the highest echelons of the TrialGP class.

Jeroni’s always been a fierce competitor and a highly-skilled rider, but up until this season his sole TrialGP victory had come in Andorra all the way back in 2009.

That all changed on the opening day of this year’s TrialGP Japan - round two of the 2018

FIM Trial World Championship - where after a clean opening lap that was nothing short of sensational he kept his cool to win on a score of just eleven, less than half that of Adam Raga - TRRS and an incredible nineteen ahead of reigning champion Toni BouRepsol Honda.

Fajardo, who jumped ship from Vertigo at the end of last year, was World number four in 2017 - and has been ranked as high as third in 2012, 2013 and 2015 - but the result still sent shockwaves through the sport.

Sure, he had finished third at the opening round at Camprodon in Spain the previous month, but the Girona-born

rider had been thirty-two marks behind Bou yet here he was - less than two weeks later - demolishing the eleven-time champion.

You could argue that it was purely down to good fortune, but there was nothing lucky about a clean opening lap that claimed eighteen marks off both Bou and Raga who, between them, have won the TrialGP title for the last thirteen years.

He slipped to fourth on day two in Japan, but two weeks later he was back up front again - this time leading Bou into the final section of TrialGP Andorra which should have been a formality having been cleaned by every rider

in the top seven on the opening lap.

Whether it was down to the pressure of knowing he was one clean away from the FIM Trial World Championship lead or just a momentarily lapse in concentration, but Jeroni recorded a maximum that dropped him to third.

As bitter a blow as it surely was, he will head into TrialGP Portugal this coming weekend with his confidence at an all-time high knowing if he can hold his nerve and ride at his very highest level then he potentially has what it takes to dethrone Bou and end his compatriot’s dream of twelve consecutive titles. n

BOU BACK ON TOP FIM TRIAL GP ROUND 3

ST. JULIA, ANDORRA

JUNE 16-17, 2018

It was the second victory of the season for Bou and a win to relish, not only because it represents a win on ‘home soil’ in Andorra where he resides, but also because the Repsol Honda Team rider equals the ninety-nine win record of seven times world champion Dougie Lampkin. Bou, in addition, extends his advantage in the overall standings to seven points over immediate rival Jeroni Fajardo.

Toni Bou displayed a high level today in spite of the sections not being the most demanding in a trial where any errors paid dearly. A five in section eleven on the first lap threw the trial wide open before Bou eventually completed the first lap in second place overall. A splendid ride on the final lap saw the current champ put the pressure on rivals, who took maximums in some rather unexpected places. The victory was accomplished in the last of the thirty sections by a mere two point-advantage.

TONI BOU CLAIMED HIS SECOND WIN OF THE SEASON IN ANDORRA

Toni Bou - Repsol Honda held his nerve to take victory at TrialGP Andorra, round three of the 2018 FIM Trial World Championship, following a tense four-way battle at altitude in the Pyrenees principality.

With the majority of sections plotted on the almost sheer, rocky hillside just outside Sant Julia de Loria where Bou now calls home, the Trial called for courage and commitment in equal measure and at the end of the day it was the defending eleven-time FIM Trial World Champion who kept his cool in sweltering conditions.

The result ties him with British legend Dougie Lampkin on ninety-nine TrialGP victories and paves the way for a possible record-breaking one hundredth win at TrialGP Portugal in one week’s time.

“The feeling is incredible because in Andorra it is always very difficult for me and today I think it’s the best I’ve ridden this year,” says Bou. “I made some little mistakes on the first lap, but I finally made sure of the win in the last section.”

Following a close opening lap it was Bou who led on ten from his fellow Spaniards Albert Cabestany - Beta and Jaime Busto - Gas Gas who were tied on eleven with Jeroni Fajardo - Gas Gas a further three marks off the pace.

After sharing the wins at TrialGP Japan last time out, both Fajardo and Busto knew victory would hand them the championship lead which only added to the tension.

The entire fourteen-rider field collected maximums on section twelve at their first attempt so it was modified for lap two. Bou needed a

JAIME BUSTO WAS FOURTH IN ANDORRA WITH 24 POINTS.

steadying dab here the second time around while Fajardo sailed through clean, but both Cabestany and Busto collected fives.

The Trial was ultimately won and lost on the very last section of the event, the man-made hazard comprising huge boulders and giant logs in the town’s main street that was used for Saturday’s qualification session.

Fajardo arrived here on a total of fifteen, one ahead of Bou, with Cabestany on eighteen and Busto out of contention on twenty-four. With his second victory of the 2018 campaign in his grasp, Fajardo - whose sole TrialGP win up until this season had come in Andorra in 2009 - collected a shock maximum on what was a relatively simple section.

With Bou and Cabestany both nailing inchperfect rides it meant victory went to Bou from Cabestany by two marks with Fajardo slipping to third on a total of twenty. Busto was next on twenty-four before a five-mark gap to his compatriot Adam Raga - TRRS who won in Andorra last year, but never really looked comfortable after a shaky first lap.

“I am very happy with this victory here in Andorra,” said Bou. “It’s been a tough weekend, with lots of nerves and a lot of pressure, but we’ve finally won. Today I felt very good on the bike and my back did not bother me, which is very positive to be able to continue improving like that. This is a very important victory both for the championship and for my morale. To reach victory number ninety-nine is impressive and now we have to work to achieve one hundred victories. I keep saying that this will be a very complicated year for me

JERONI FAJARDO FINISHED WEEKEND IN THIRD.

ADAM RAGA WON LAST YEAR’S ROUND IN ANDORRA BUT SLIPPED TO FIFTH IN 2018

but we will continue fighting.”

Spain’s Jorge Casales - Vertigo was the next rider home on a distant forty-six, one mark ahead of British rider James Dabill - Beta.

Miquel Gelabert - Sherco from Spain, Frenchman Benoit Bincaz - Scorpa and Britain’s Jack Price - Gas Gas rounded out the top ten.

The result hands Bou a seven-point lead over Fajardo with Busto a further two points behind as the series approaches the halfway mark.

RESULTS

1. Toni Bou (Hon) 16

2. Albert Cabestany (Bet) 18

3. Jeroni Fajardo (GG) 20

4. Jaime Busto (GG) 24

5. Adsm Raga (TRS) 29

6. jorge Casales (Ver) 46

7. James Dabill (Bet) 47

8. Miquel Gelabert (Shr)

9. Benoit Bincaz (Sco)

10. Jack Price (GG)

FAJARDO, BUSTO BREAK THROUGH

PHOTOS BY PEP SEGALES/TRIALGP

FIM TRIAL GP

ROUND 2

MOTEGI, JAPAN

JUNE 2-3, 2018

Jeroni Fajardo and Jaime Busto get breakout wins in Japan.

Spain’s Jeroni Fajardo turned round two of the 2018 FIM Trial World Championship on its head with a stunning victory in the premier TrialGP class on Saturday, the opening day of the Japanese TrialGP at the Twin Ring Motegi circuit. On Sunday, Fajardo’s factory GasGas teammate, Jaime Busto, claimed a career-first victory in the TrialGP division, putting the finishing touches on a stunning weekend.

Meanwhile, in the Trial2 Women’s division, American GasGas rider Maddie Hoover claimed an impressive runner-up finish behind Italian Alex Brancati (Beta) on both days of competition. Hoover won Friday’s Qualifing session in the Trial2Women’s class, setting the stage for an exciting weekend.

DAY ONE

Fajardo was in simply sensational form to record a clean opening lap which was eight marks better than next-best Takahisa Fujinami - Repsol Honda and an amazing eighteen ahead of the Spanish pairing of reigning World Champion Toni Bou - Repsol Honda and Adam Raga - TRRS.

Forced to ride at the front of the field all day following his calamitous Q2 session on Friday, the thirty-two-year-old took full advantage of the early dry, grippy conditions. Even when he went slightly off the boil on lap two to add eleven to his total the damage to the rest of the field had been done and he held his nerve to take his first TrialGP win since 2009.

“I cannot believe what has happened today,” says Fajardo. “I was riding amazing after my problem yesterday in Qualifying. I knew I could do it, but it is very easy to make a mis-

take. My first lap was incredible and lap two was still okay because I only made mistakes in the most difficult sections. It’s been an amazing day for me.”

Raga made amends for his disappointing performance at the opening round of the championship two weeks earlier and recovered to grab the runner-up position with a second lap total of five as Fujigas just held on for an emotional home podium in third on twenty-eight despite a couple of late maximums.

Bou appeared to struggle on the huge rocks and scarily-steep wooded hillsides and despite closing in on his team-mate on lap two he ended the day a further two marks back.

Friday’s Q2 winner Jaime Busto - Gas Gas paid the price for his expensive opening lap total of twenty-five. The young Spaniard, who was runner-up at round one, fought back with a second lap total of ten but it was only good enough for fifth.

There was a gap of nine marks back to sixth-placed Jorge Casales - Vertigo from Spain with his fellow countryman Albert Cabestany - Beta taking seventh on fortysix on a tie-break from Britain’s James Dabill - Beta with veteran Japanese rider Kenichi Kuroyama - Yamaha and Miquel Gelabert - Sherco from Spain rounding out the top ten.

MADDIE HOOVER

Victory in Trial2 Women went to sixteenyear-old Italian Alex Brancati - Beta by a comfortable nine-mark margin with her final total of sixteen too good for even America’s Maddie Hoover - Gas Gas who had topped Friday’s Qualification session.

Mona Pekarek - Sherco from Germany was two marks behind the American in third to snatch a podium finish from her compatriot Sophia Ter Jung - Beta who led at the halfway stage before suffering a disastrous second lap.

DAY TWO

The sensational shake-up at the very top of the sport continued today on the second day of TrialGP Japan - round two of the 2018 FIM Trial World Championship - at the Twin Ring Motegi circuit. In his fourth year in top-flight Trial, Jaime Busto - Gas Gas finally claimed a career-first victory.

At an event where HRC were looking to celebrate one hundred TrialGP wins for Toni Bou - Repsol Honda in their own backyard, instead it was Gas Gas who did the double with their two new signings for 2018 as Busto replicated his team-mate Jeroni Fajardo’s victory the day before.

Busto got off to a shaky start with the only maximum on section two on the opening lap, but the twenty-year-old made amends with a superb single-mark score on section thirteen which, along with five other sections, had been made harder after yesterday’s Trial. Comprising a series of huge black, polished rocks with a monster step to finish, the awkward ap -

TAKAHISA FUJINAMI

proach to this imposing exit was where the Trial was won and lost.

With Bou looking to be back in full control up to this point after his surprise slip to fourth on the opening day, the eleventime champion took a maximum to bring Busto back into contention.

It was actually Adam Raga - TRRS who led after the opening lap. The two-time World Champion’s inch-perfect clean on section thirteen put him on a score of just eight at the halfway point compared to Bou’s eleven and Busto’s twelve, but his hopes of victory began to unravel at the start of the second lap when he too took a five at section two.

Section fourteen had been almost universally cleaned on the opening lap while section fifteen had taken maximums from the entire field so when the Spanish trio arrived at section thirteen for their second attempts it was crunch time!

With Busto on a total of thirteen, Bou and Raga on fourteen and Fajardo still in with an outside chance on eighteen, the tension - increased by thirty-degree heatwas palpable.

Fajardo had looked out of contention following his opening lap of eighteen. The Spaniard had dragged himself back into the hunt with a faultless final lap up to this point, but his chances of a second victory were finally derailed when he scored a maximum and his compatriot Raga suffered the same fate.

Bou struggled through for a three to keep his hopes of winning alive, but Busto sealed his first top-flight victory with another sensational single-mark ride.

“I am very, very happy,” says Busto. “I had such a good feeling with the bike and I can’t believe I have won. It is amazing.”

After everyone apart from Spain’s Jorge Casales - Vertigo took a maximum on section fifteen, the Trial finished with Busto on nineteen from Bou on twenty-two with Raga completing the podium on twentyfour, four ahead of Fajardo.

Spain’s Albert Cabestany - Beta, who cleaned section thirteen at both attempts, was six marks further back and took fifth on a tie-break with Britain’s James Dabill - Beta. Casales was next on thirty-eight before a big gap to Spaniard Miquel Gelabert - Sherco.

Home hero Takahisa Fujinami - Repsol Honda, a fabulous third on Saturday, rounded out the top ten along with France’s Benoit Bincaz - Scorpa.

Bou now heads both Busto and Fajardo by 2 points in the general standings after two rounds.

Italy’s Alex Brancati - Beta backed up her win on Saturday with victory on Sunday in the Trial2 Women class with her total of sixteen marks lost just three better than Saturday’s runner-up Maddie Hoover - Gas Gas from America.

Sophia Ter Jung - Beta ended the day a further two marks adrift in third with the

seventeen-year-old German leap-frogging her compatriot Mona Pekarek - Sherco, who took the final step of yesterday’s podium, on a tie-break. Norway’s Erika Melchior - Sherco claimed her second fifth-placed finish of the weekend on twenty-two.

Brancati has a six point cushion over Hoover heading into round two.

RESULTS

SATURDAY

1. Jeroni Fajardo (GG) 11

2. Adam Raga (TRS) 23

3. Takahisa Fujinami (Hon) 28

4. Toni Bou (Hon) 30

5. Jaime Busto (GG) 35

6. Jorge Casales (Ver) 44

7. Albert Cabestany (Bet) 46

8. James Dabill (Bet) 46

9. Kenichi Kuroyama (Yam) 56

10. Miquel Galabert (Shr) 57

TRIAL2WOMEN

1. Alex Brancati (Bet) 16

2. Maddie Hoover (GG) 25

3. Mona Pekarek (Shr) 27

4. Sofia Ter Jong (Bet) 31

5. Erika Melchior (Shr) 47

6. Caroline Moreon (Shr) 48

7. Victoria Payne (Shr) 52

8. Hanne Haga TRS) 54

9. Marine Aurieres (GG) 60

JORGE CASALES

RESULTS

SUNDAY

1. Jaime Busto (GG) 19

2. Toni Bou (Hon) 22

3. Adam Raga (TRS) 24

4. Jeroni Fajardo (GG) 28

5. Albert Cabestany (Bet) 34

6. James Dabill (Bet) 34

7. Jorge Casales (Ver) 34

8. Miquel Gelabert (Shr) 38

9. Takahisa Fujinami (Hon) 51

10. Benoit Bincaz (Sco) 53

TRIAL2WOMEN

1. Alex Brancati (Bet) 16

2. Maddie Hoover (GG) 19

3. Sophia Ter Jung (Bet) 21

4. Mona Pekarek (Shr) 21

5. Erika Melchior (Shr) 22

6. Marine Aurieres (GG) 48

7. Martina Gallieni (TRS) 50

8. Victoria Payne (Shr) 50

9. Hanne Haga (TRS) 50

10. Caroline Moreon (Shr) 51

TONI BOU AND JORGE CASALES

Impromptu Trials

At South Bloomingville, Ohio

Event Date: May 19/20, 2018

Article by: Stephanie Vetterly

For the past several years, a trials event has been held in Sidell, IL as a fundraiser for Crosswinds Equine Rescue, owned and operated by Trials Inc members Mike and AnnMarie Cross. Started in 2000, this non-profit company works rescuing and rehabilitating at-risk horses, educating owners in proper care and training, and has helped rehome over 160 horses. [More information can be found at www.cwer.org

The event slated for Sidell, IL at the Crosswinds facility was unfortunately cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances. However, that

did not stop Trials Inc from continuing its love of riding trials.

With short notice, and a whirlwind of ribbon, markers, and arrows, the team threw together 8 sections nestled in South Bloomingville, OH in the woods adjacent to the Hocking Hills State Park area, and the site of this year’s Vintage Cup competition to be held in late October. This event was nonpoints paying, and peer-checked, but gave riders another opportunity for practice and a fun weekend out riding. No gate fees were required, but donations were appreciated in order to help cover the AMA sanction fees for the weekend.

Riders made 3 loops on Saturday, interrupt-

ed shortly after the start by a serious burst of rain, turning the nice hard-packed trail muddy and slippery. This did not seem to prevent the more than 20 riders from completing all loops without injury or mechanical failures. After the event, those in attendance were invited to a cookout hosted by property owners and Trials Inc members, Travis and Tiffany Daniels, with appetizers and side dishes donated by riders.

Riders were offered a treat on Sunday; instead of riding another set of loops, Adam Blumhorst, president of Trials Inc and former trials minder for Pro Andrew Putt, held a trials school. Going back through the sections that gave riders the most issues on Saturday, Adam helped riders of all skill levels improve their talents navigating tight turns or difficult obstacles.

All-in-all, the weekend was a great success, bringing both seasoned Trials Inc riders and some new faces together for the shared love of motorcycle trials.

The next event is scheduled for July 21/22 at North Benton, OH. Check out www. trialsinc.org for a complete race schedule, or visit us on Facebook and Instagram.

See you on the loop!

2018 US MOTOTRIALS

April 21-22

April 28-29

June 9-10

June 16-17

Sept 1-2

Roswell, New Mexico

Salida, Colorado

Sequatchie, Tennessee

Uniontown, Arkansas

Donner, California

2018 FIM TRIAL GP

May 19-20 Caprodon, Spain

June 1-3

June 16-17

Motegi, Japan

Sant Julia, Andorra

June 23-24 Gouveia, Portugal

July 14-15

July 21-22

Sept 1-2

Sept 15-16

Auron, France

Comblain-au-Pont, Belgium

Silsden, Great Britan

Arco di Trento, Italy

2018 TRIAL DES NATIONS

Sept 22-23

Sokolov, Czech Republic

2018 AMA NATIONAL ENDURO SERIES

Feb 4

March 4

April 15

Sumter, South Carolina

Forest Hill, Louisiana

Lynnville, Indiana

May 6 Arrington, Virginia

June 3

July 22

Aug 26

Sept 9

Greensboro, Georgia

Cross Fork, Pennsylvania

Chandlersville, Ohio

Marquette, Michigan

Sept 23 Matthews, Indiana

Nov 4 Stanton, Alabama

2018 WORLD SUPER ENDURO

Jan 6

Riesa, Germany

Feb 17 Malaga, Spain

March 3

March 31

Bilbao, Spain

Lidkowpin,

2018 FIM WORLD ENDURO

March 17-18

April 29-30

Helsinki, Finland

Santiago, May 5-6 Castelo Bronco,

June 3-4 Tallin, Estonia

June 30

Arco di Trento, July TBA TBA, France

Sept 2-3 Edolo, Italy

Sept 23-24 ` Hawkstone

Oct 14-15 Woltersdorf,

2018 FIM WORLD ENDURO

May 11-13

May 31 – June 3

July 24-28

Portugal -

Austria - Erzberg

June 8-10 France - Trefle

Romania -

Sept (TBA) Poland - Red October 26-27 SwedenNovember 10 The Netherlands

2018 INTERNATIONAL SIX DAYS

November 12-17

2018 WORCS

Feb 2-4

Vina-del-Mar,

Las Vegas, Feb 22-25

Peoria, Arizona

March 23-25 Lake Havasu, April 20-22 Hurricane, May 25-27 Cedar City, Sept 14-15

Devore, California

Oct 19-21 Adelanto, Nov 9-11 Primm, Nevada

Spain

Lidkowpin, Sweden

CHAMPIONSHIP

Finland

Spain

Bronco, Portugal

Estonia

Trento, Italy

France

Italy

Hawkstone Park, England

Woltersdorf, Germany

SUPER SERIES

- Extreme XL Lagares

Erzberg

Trefle Lozerien AMV

- Red Bull Romaniacs

Red Bull 111 Megawatt

Gotland Grand National

Netherlands - Red Bull Knock Out

DAYS ENDURO

Vina-del-Mar, Chile

Vegas, Nevada

Arizona

Havasu, Arizona

Hurricane, Utah

City, Utah

California

California

Nevada

2018 TRIALS INC.

April 7-8

April 28-29

May 19-20

July 21-22

Aug 18-19

Sept 1-2

Sept 15-16

Sept 29-30

Oct 13-14

Oct 27-28

Nov 10-11

Tippecanoe, Ohio

Garrettsville, Ohio

Sidell, Illinois

North Benton, Ohio

Toronto, Ohio

Newark, Ohio

Bloomington, Indiana

Bedford, Kentucky

Little Hocking, Ohio

S. Bloomingville, Ohio

Dayton, Ohio (Banquet)

2018 STRA TRIALS

March 3-4

March 10-11

March 24-25

April 7-8

May 19-20

June 9-10

Oct 13-14

Oct 27-28

Nov 10-11

Blairsville, Georgia

Ocala, Florida

Sequatchie, Tennessee (Training)

Maryville, Tennessee

Lenoir City, Tennessee

Sequatchie, Tennessee (National)

Cornelia, Georgia

Sequatchie, Tennessee (58K)

Ringgold, Georgia

2018 RMTA TRIALS

March 4

Stock Ranch (Tune up Trial)

May 20 Montevista

June 2/3

Nonami Ranch

July 1 Cledgehammer Gultch

July 21/22 Hartman Rocks

Aug 18/19

Sept 16

Sept 30

Oct 14

Rainbow trail ( Ute Cub)

Valcano gultch

Pilot Peak South

Tucker’s Ranch