The Big Picture
AND GAM HIPPITY HOP
Grant Baylor’s rear wheel hops under braking as he shuts down his Tely Energy Racing KTM after a sixth-gear, wide-open blast through a bean field at the Muddobbers Enduro.
PHOTO BY SHAN MOORE
The Big Picture
AND GAM
DOWN BY THE SEA
Toni Bou joined fellow Spaniards Adam Raga and Jeroni Fajardo to give Spain it’s 16th Trial des Nations win in Ibeza, Spain. The US Men’s squad finished third in the International class.
BY PEP SEGALES
PHOTO
The Big Picture
AND
GAM
IN
Mike Grizzle, who won the 50+ class at the Muddobber Enduro in Indiana, is surrounded by greenery during test three of the national enduro.
PHOTO BY SHAN MOORE BOXED
The Big Picture
AND GAM MADDIE’S YEAR
Maddie Hoover moved up to the Women’s TrialGP division for 2019, the highest level of world competition, and came away with an amazing ninth overall against the best of the best.
PHOTO BY PEP SEGALES
The Big Picture
AND GAM ENDURO SPECIAL EFFECTS
If you enjoyed the “ride along” clips in Daniel Engle’s last NEPG video, this is how it’s done. Melissa Randt drives the NEPG media vehicle while Daniel hangs out of the window.
PHOTO BY SHAN MOORE
THE TOP
KTM 300 XC-W TPI
KTM Factory riders are continually shifting the boundaries of possibility. Their demands have resulted in a new generation of complete high-performance offroad machines that offer outstanding handling and agility, improved ease of use and efficient power delivery across the whole rev range.
The new KTM 300 XC-W TPI is a race-refined machine of the highest caliber, built to conquer every challenge in your journey to the top.
Photo:
25O/300
The NEW 2020 250/300 RR models feature; oil injection, an all new frame and sub-frame design that allows for quick filter access, a counter balancer for smoother response through the entire power band, and a Sachs ZF forks and rear shock combination that gives the rider the ability to make tool-less adjustments to compression, rebound, and spring preload.
BETA ENDURO & TRIALS DEALERS
Enduro Alaska • Wasilla, AK • 907-350-6584
S&T Cycles • North Clanton, AL • 205-755-1001
Al’s Cycle Center • North Little Rock, AR • 501-758-4800
Dirt Riders West • Phoenix, AZ • 800-467-0604
Happy Trails Cycles• Bouse, AZ • 307-690-9493
Manic Moto • Queen Creek, AZ • 480-783-3243
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
Capitol Yamaha • Sacramento, CA • 916-485-9200
Doug Chandler Performance • Salinas, CA • 831-422-3270
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
KC Power sports • San Juan Capistrano, CA • 949-942-9854
Lee’s Honda Kawasaki • Redding, CA • 530-221-6788
MotoXotica • Vacaville, CA • 707-446-4282
Mountain Motorsports • Ontario, CA • 909-988-8988
Simi Valley Cycles • Simi Valley, CA • 805-522-3434
Uptite Husky • Santa Ana, CA • 714-540-2920
Wilson’s Powersports • Madera, CA • 559-674-0041
Apex Sports • Colorado Springs, CO • 719-475-2437
Extreme Power Sports • Steamboat, CO • 970-879-9175
Grand Mesa Motorsports • Delta, CO • 970-874-8621
Handlebar Motorsports • Durango, CO • 970-247-0845
MotoAdventure • Loveland, CO • 970-669-5377
Perri’s Powersports • Grand Junction, CO • 970-243-7730
Spirit Lake Motorsports • Grand Lake, CO • 970-627-9288
Timberline Motorsports • Buena Vista, CO • 719-395-4272
Level 10 Performance Motorsports • Ormond Beach, FL • 386-944-9160
Orion Motorsports • Tallahassee, FL •850-671-1222
Priority 1 Powersports • Fort Pierce, FL •772-448-8555
Tiki Cycles Unlimited • Mililani, HI • 808-486-8454
Cycle Tech • Fremont, IA • 641-632-8201
DR Powersports • Waterloo, IA • 319-235-6453 ext5
Hicklin PowerSports • Grimes, IA • 515-986-4880
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
Sandpoint Marine & Motorsports • Ponderay, ID • 208-263-1535
Integ Motorsports • East Peoria, IL • 309-699-3929
Fatty’s Cycle • Fortville, IN • 317-485-6200
The Cycle Shed • Vernon, IN • 812-346-8620
Miller Cycle Shop • Inman, KS • 620-712-1165
909-224-3375
Morgan’s Suspension Service • Louisville, KY • 502-239-1870
LBI Motorsports • Oxford, MA • 508-987-6245
Monty’s Motorsports • Westfield, MA • 413-642-8199
Cycle max • Gaithersburg, MD • 301-869-6629
Xtreme Powersports • Accident, MD • 301-387-2095
Maine Cycle • Auburn, ME •207-783-7349
Bennett Powersports • Marlette, MI • 989-635-5500
JT Cycle • Battle Creek, MI • 269-965-0571
Marquette Beta • Marquette, MI • 906-226-3560
MX Parts Now • Watervliet, MI • 269-201-7064
Plus One Performance • Dearborn, MI • 313-918-8944
Lewis Charles Cycles • Albert Lea, MN • 507-720-4144
Bonecutter Body Shop • California, MO • 573-796-8685
Donnell’s Motorcycles • Independence, MO • 816-478-9393
Motorcycles and More • Marthasville, MO • 636-433-2384
Youngblood Powersports • Ozark, MO • 417-582-1065
Blitz Motorsports • Bozeman, MT • 406-522-7533
Fastoys • Kalispell, MT • 406-257-8697
Hanson’s Motorsports • Billings, MT • 406-545-7338
Kurt’s Polaris • Missoula, MT • 406-541-3651
Poet Motorcycles • Helena, MT • 406-457-8230
Big Toy Superstore • Winston Salem, NC • 336-768-3433
Brewer Cycles • Henderson, NC • 252-492-8553
Redline Motorsports • Bismarck, ND • 701-426-0083
Johnny’s Cycle • Nebraska City, NE • 402-873-6913
Smart Auto Sales • Omaha, NE • 402-715-4647
Naults Powersports • Manchester, NH • 603-669-7220
Town & Country Cycle Center • Hamburg, NJ • 973-875-2111
Trapani Race Setups • Waretown, NJ • 609-693-3773
Champion Motorsports • Roswell, NM • 575-624-0151
DT Motorsports • Alamogordo, NM • 575-434-0454
S Squared Motorsports • Albuquerque, NM • 505-839-0505
Sun Country Powersports • Farmington, NM • 505-325-4195
Sierra BMW Motorcycle • Sparks, NV • 775-355-0655
Sonoma Cycle • Winnemucca, NV • 775-623-6888
Sportsman Cycle • Las Vegas, NV • 702-641-6401
3 Seas Recreation • Mayville, NY • 716-753-2628
Barnstormers Off Road • Whitehall, NY • 518-769-1058
Powerline Cycles • Mahopac, NY • 845-528-3401
Pro Cycles • Clifton Park, NY • 518-373-0151
Steve’s Custom Cycle • Lockport, NY • 716-625-4372
Beaver Creek Cycle • Lisbon, OH • 330-386-7353
Championship Powersports • Wauseon, OH • 419-335-8600
Dover Race Ready Cycle • Dover, OH • 330-440-6196
KRW Cycles • Dayton, OH • 937-477-0522
Pony Powersports • Westerville, OH • 614-212-7888
Staud Cycles• Fairfield, OH • 513-604-2391
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
Ephrata Cycle & Sports • Ephrata, PA • 717-738-1184
First Bike Motorsports • Butler, PA • 724-287-3052
Kissell Motorsports • Tyrone, PA • 814-861-7890
RyanCo Cycle Works • Bloomsburg, PA • 570-437-4034
South Mtn Cycle Shop • Dillsburg, PA • 717-432-4997
San Juan Motorsports • San Juan, PR • 787-399-6866
Upstate Cycle • Greenville , SC • 864-232-7223
Rosco’s Motorcycle & ATV • Rapid City, SD • 605-348-3946
Adventure Offroad • Leoma, TN • 931-852-5445
Garry Griffith Cycle • Chattanooga, TN • 423-867-0423
GDM Motorsports • Murfreesboro, TN • 615-907-7212
Knox Enduro • Knoxville, TN • 865-308-0330
380 Motorsports • Decatur, TX • 817-752-8456
Big Country Motorsports • Magnolia, TX • 281-356-2506
D Squared Trials & Trails • Amarillo, TX • 806-576-0271
Fun Motors of Longview • Longview, TX • 903-663-9100 Moto El Paso • El Paso, TX • 915-566-6666
Ruhnke’s Xtreme Cycles • Odessa, TX • 432-563-0000
San Marcos Motorcycles • San Marcos, TX • 512-392-5220 Cutler’s Inc. • Orem, UT • 801-224-5005
ELEVATE THE STANDARD
The FX and TX cross-country model range offers purpose-built motorcycles with ultra-modern components like electric start to get the rider off the line faster and a Map Select switch to put the power to the ground. Performance-focused innovations were implemented to ensure power accessibility and agility to stay ahead of the competition.
Photo: F. Lackner
THE LOOP
News and Culture From The World Of Trials, Offroad and Extreme Racing
2020 US MOTOTRIALS SCHEDULE ANNOUNCED
The North American Trials Council (NATC) met in Phoenix, Arizona, for the 47th annual NATC meeting on October 25-27 to set the rules and schedule for the 2020 season. The meeting was on the same weekend that this issue was in production so we weren’t able to get details on any rules changes (we will have these in the next issue), but we did get the schedule for the 2020 National MotoTrials Series, and the schedule for the 2020 Super Trial Series.
2020 US NATIONAL MOTOTRIALS
April 25/26 Jackson, CA
June 13/14 Little Hocking, OH
July 25/26 Hulapui, AZ
Oct 3/4 Hillsboro, AL
SPECIAL EVENTS
April 18/19 El Trial de Espana Cahuilla, CA
Aug 15/16 Ute Cup TBA, CO
www.mototrials.com
2020 SUPER TRIAL
May 15/16 Luckenbach, TX
Aug 7/16 Sturgis, SD
Oct 16/17 Luckenbach, TX
KTM ACQUIRES STAKE IN GASGAS
KTM has announced that it has acquired a 60% stake in GasGas, which they indicate is a joint effort to develop new bikes and to strengthen KTM’s reach in the Spanish market. Black Toro Capital, the owners of GasGas Motorcycles, will retain 40% of the venture.
According to sources, manufacturing will remain in Spain and new models will be developed, along with the Trials and Enduro machines, while Torrot continues to produce electric motorcycles. GasGas is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of Trials bikes.
US Importer Mark Berg indicated to On The Pegs that it was “business as usual” at GasGas North America and operations are proceeding as usual.
According to a statement, KTM wishes to add the storied GasGas brand to its existing KTM and Husqvarna lineup, and there are even rumors of a GasGas motocross bike.
ANDREW SHORT WINS 2019 RALLY DU MAROC
Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s Andrew Short has won the Rally du Maroc, securing his place as runner-up in the 2019 FIM Cross-Country Rallies World Championship. Earning a second consecutive podium result, Pablo Quintanilla finished second at the tough Moroccan race. The result marks Rockstar Energy Husqvarna’s first ever one-two in a world championship rally event.
With a new style road book that riders often only received minutes before the start of each stage, the Rally du Maroc once again lived up to its reputation as one of the toughest events on the cross-country rallies calendar. Adapting superbly to the new regulations, Andrew Short made the most of his ever-improving skill and experience to put in a consistent ride that ultimately took him and his Husqvarna FR 450 Rally to the event win.
Following a strong showing in the race Prologue, Short made the best use of his strengths on the mixed terrain of the Moroccan desert stages, pushing hard when comfortable while maintaining a solid pace on the more technical sections. With navigation proving key to a strong result on all of the stages, Andrew rode intelligently to minimise any errors and successfully complete each stage in good time.
Courtesy Husqvarna
Photos
X-TRIAL ANNOUNCES LINEUP
The 2020 FIM X-Trial World Championship has named its first five competitors, including the lead quartet from the 2019 season, who will return as “Championship Riders”. Big names Bou, Raga, Busto and Bincaz will be among the contenders for the title right from the season opener in La Réunion on 16th November.
Top billing as ever is 13-times World Champion Toni Bou, who closed out the last campaign with a run of four consecutive victories to confirm his latest title. But despite Bou’s success 2019 proved a challenging season for the Repsol Montesa Honda man, and his main rivals from that entertaining campaign will be back to keep him on his toes once again.
Adam Raga (TRRS) will start the new season as the main contender, having himself been 4-times World Champion. The 2019 X-Trial Barcelona winner showed he hasn’t lost his touch with a world number two ranking and an unbroken sequence of podium finishes last term. Meanwhile three youngsters continue their apprenticeship on the sport’s highest stage.
Spain’s Jaime Busto (Vertigo) starts the campaign with a third different manufacturer in four seasons having made the switch to Vertigo at the start of the summer, and hopes the move will see him return to the form that saw him claim his first XTrial win in 2018. French hopeful Bincaz (Beta) also dropped a place in the rankings last season, but will certainly be among the contenders from the off in the coming campaign. And it’s a dream call-up for Gabriel Marcelli, the Montesa protégé in as the Under-25 seed having already proven his ability to run with the big guns last season in Granada and Bilbao.
Each of these permanent riders are sure to bring their passion and skill to provide an impressive spectacle throughout the FIM X-Trial World Championship that can as always be followed on demand via www.x-trial.tv n
BUSTO’S NEW VERTIGO DEAL
Vertigo recently announced its new deal with Jaime Busto. After joining the factory team in the middle of the 2019 campaign, Busto will continue to ride green at least until 2021 after signing a two-year contract extension, with an optional third one.
The rider from Vizcaya is known as one of the hottest talents on the international trial scene. Despite being only 21 years old, he already has plenty of experience competing in the premier class of the indoor and outdoor series, where he has proved his amazing talent and great determination to reach the peak of the sport. Although he joined Vertigo just a few days before the 2019 TrialGP World Championship season opener, Busto has finished 4th in the standings with a fantastic 2nd place as season’s best in France. In the Spanish Championship was able to record Vertigo’s maiden victory in the premier class in Entrimo, and is currently sitting in 2nd place with just one round remaining.
“I’m stoked to extend my partnership with Vertigo,” said Busto. “After a year getting used to the new bike I feel we’ve reached a great level going into the next season. I’m sure we are gonna get top results. The bike works really well, and thanks to Vertigo’s engineers it is still improving despite already being super competitive. I’m motivated and I strongly believe next season will be a great one”. n
25 YEARS OF SHEFFIELD
G2F Media recently released the Limited Edition - Sheffield Indoor Trial Book celebrating the 25th Anniversary of the storied indoor trial, on sale now for £9.95 (approx. $12.50)
The A4-sized book is packed with exclusive content including previously unpublished images from Eric Kitchen, Interviews with Bou, Lampkin, Colley, Raga, Dabill, and Fujinami and features the golden years reviews – 1996 / 2000 / 2003 / 2006 / 2010 / 2016 / 2019. Also, full results from 1996 to 2019 - heat + final covering all riders. Sheffield Hall of Fame – complete winners’ roll of honor.
To order you copy click HERE .
Tremaine and Forsley, First Two Riders Named to FactoryONE Sherco Enduro Team
FactoryONE Sherco welcomes Ty Tremaine and Louise Forsley to the FactoryONE Sherco Enduro Team. They will be finishing out their respective 2019 seasons onboard Sherco Motorcycles. Ty Tremaine just recently finished 4th overall at the Donner Hare Scramble in California onboard a 2020 SEF 300 Factory. Louise will be racing the last round of the AMA EnduroCross series in Idaho onboard a Sherco SE 125 Racing model. Louise and Ty are excited to move on to this next stage in their careers.
“I’m really excited and honored to be part of the FactoryONE Sherco Team,” says Forsley. “Sherco USA and RYP (Ryan Young Products) have always supported me in my trials career so I’m really excited to be brought on to the new Endurocross team. I love the brand and the people and I am really looking forward to the 2020 season!”
“I am so thankful for this opportunity to ride for FactoryONE Sherco,” says Tremaine. “The support from Sherco USA and Team Manager, Wayne Dickert, has
been beyond my expectations. The Sherco 300 is an absolute weapon and I am excited to go try to put this thing on top of the box!”
Louise has been riding bikes of all kinds since her youth and she has seen success at every level and at every discipline.
Louise Forsley:
• 6-time United States AMA Mototrials Champion and Trials de Nations team member.
• Captured the SuperTrials series #1 plate this past weekend in Luckenbach, TX
• X-Games silver medalist in EnduroCross.
• Finished the 2012 AMA EnduroCross season as runner up before going on a 5-year tour with Marvel
Universe Live as a motorcycle stunt performer.
Ty grew up riding high-speed desert races and then joined the WORCS series. He became a professional at the tender age of 13 where he saw immediate success.
Ty Tremaine:
• 3-time junior AMA EnduroCross champion and FIM World Champion.
• Won the 2015 FIM World SuperEnduro Junior (23 and under) Championship ahead of familiar names like Manny Lettenbichler and Sherco’s own Wade Young.
• Multi time X-Games competitor having competed in MotoX.
• In addition to racing, he is a fire fighter for Carson City, NV.
Team Owner Ron Sallman says, “We are beyond thrilled to have Ty and Louise on the FactoryONE Sherco Team. They bring a wealth of talent and will be competing for Championships right out of the gates. Louise is one of the most talented motorcycle riders, period. I am excited to see how she does in EnduroCross. Ty is a proven commodity having won several Jr. Championships, including the FIM World SuperEnduro. On top of being great riders, they are great people. They will be tremendous ambassadors for the Sherco brand.”
In addition to coming back to trials riding, Louise will focus on the entire 2020 AMA EnduroCross season. You may see her at the starting line of a few hard enduros as well. She will spend most of her seat time on a Sherco 125 2-stroke.
Ty will be focused on EnduroCross and WORCS and will also be seen at a bunch of hard enduros along the way. Ty will be onboard both a Factory 300 4-stroke as well as a 2-stroke, depending on the event. n
FLY LIMITED EDITION CORAL GEAR
FLY Racing recently unveiled the latest colorway for their Lite Racewear built specifically for the 2019 Monster Energy Cup. This Limited Edition Coral gear is a unique palette of colors built on our incredibly popular lightweight jersey, pant, and glove combo, raced in by top athletes across the world.
Lite Jerseys feature:
• Laser-cut perforations help dissipate heat
• Zero-cuff arm openings with reinforced mesh gussets provide unrestrictive mobility and a comfortable fit
• Mesh ventilation panels dissipate unwanted heat
• Multi-panel construction for maximum performance and comfortable fit
• Low profile multi-directional tagless mesh collar
• Extended tail helps keep jersey tucked in
Lite Pants feature:
• Lightweight minimalist design
• Multi-directional stretch-rib panels
• Mesh panels on back of knee
• Low profile stretch leg cuffs
• Stretch panel construction
• Leather heat shield panels
• The Boa® System
• On-the-fly micro adjustability
• Ergonomically pre-shaped knee
• Accommodates most knee braces and guards
• Full-Floating seat
• Exclusive zipper lock system
• Ratcheting closure
Lite Gloves feature:
• Ultra-lightweight minimalist race glove with a soft hand feel
• Single-layer perforated palm for improved airflow and a lightweight feel
• Spandex mesh finger sidewall and gusset for improved air flow and lightweight feel
• Reinforced double layer thumb
• Silicone finger grippers
• Athletic fit that fits close to the hand with minimal excess
SMAGE RIDING TECHNIQUE PAT
FOR THE NEXT YEAR, TEN-TIME US MOTOTRIALS CHAMPION PAT SMAGE WILL BE BRINGING US MONTHLY RIDING TIPS DESIGNED TO MAKE YOU A BETTER RIDER. AND WHO DOESN’T WANT TO BE A BETTER RIDER? WHETHER YOU’RE A TRIALS RIDER OR AN OFF-ROAD ENTHUSIAST, WE’RE CERTAIN YOU’LL BENEFIT FROM PAT’S TIPS, SO SIT BACK AND TAKE IT ALL IN. BE SAFE AND DON’T FORGET TO PRACTICE WITH A BUDDY!
Bullett Proof Designs Caliper Guard
Max Sug. Retail: $49.00-$59.00
Website: www.bulletproofdesigns.com
Bullet Proof Designs is bringing more to the table with their new Caliper Guard. The small guard attaches to their newest generation Rear Disc Guards to offer complete protection around the rear brake system. Constructed out of 6061 American Aerospace Aluminum, the guard adds minimal weight while boasting a strong shell. It installs with two simple bolts making installation a breeze. The Caliper Guard is available in Silver, Black, Blue, and Orange for KTM and Husqvarna models.
‘20 BETA X-TRAINER LESS VIBRATION FOR 2020
Beta USA recently announced the 2020 Xtrainer 300. Now in its sixth year of production, the new Xtrainer has been revamped including a counter balanced engine, updates to the bodywork, and a few other key changes to insure Beta owners will continue to make the Xtrainer their bike of choice. Designed as an entry-level off road play bike, the Xtrainer appeals to many different riding abilities including new off road riders wanting to ride trails as well as more experienced riders wanting a second bike to play on for extreme riding.
Other features that are found on the Xtrainer include a lower seat height, oil injection, light weight and an overall smaller chassis. These key features have made the Xtrainer the largest selling 2 stroke play bike in the USA.
2020 BETA XTRAINER
New features include:
• Counter-Balanced engine: A very large detail brought over from the RR models offers reduced vibration and even more tractability.
• New crankshaft: Matched with the new counter balance shaft, the new crank has new flywheels to help smooth out the power and vibration.
• New clutch plates: redesigned to offer smoother shifting.
• New front fender & headlight mask: Like the big-brother RR models, the new front fender and headlight mask are designed to be stronger yet more aggressive in design.
• Redesigned radiator shrouds: New design allows for better airflow to the radiators.
• New MAP switch: push button on the handlebar with an LED light.
• Longer swingarm: Provides a more stable ride.
• New final gearing: Improves the gear range to work in junction with the new engine.
• New rear chain guide: Redesigned for the new swing arm to provide better protection.
• Front fork & rear shock: Updated internal valving to improve handling and performance.
• New handlebar protector.
• New meter: More durable.
• New graphics and colors.
2020 BETA RACE DESTINED FOR DOMINATION
Beta recently launched its 2020 RR race Edition models. These models are all new for 2020 and are sure to be a sellout model for the Italian brand.
The 2020 range includes 7 different engine sizes: three 2-stroke (125/250/300 cc) and four 4-stroke (350/390/430/480 cc) engines that offer Beta riders and racers a good selection to meet his or her needs.
Most all of the updates to the standard range of RR and RR-S models have found their way into the Race Edition line up. Features such as all new frames and bodywork, as well as new counter-balanced engines in the 2 strokes which are still pre-mix to save weight however an oil injection system is available as an option. Electric start is standard on all models with a back-up kick start kit available as an option.
2020 BETa 125 RR RacE EdITIon
The all-new 4 stroke engines feature simplified cooling hose routing and re-positioned crankshaft and clutch for better handling. In addition to the new engines, the sub-frame, tail section, seat, fuel tank, bodywork, and many other details are also all new coming together to provide the best looking and most friendly cockpit layout on the market.
If that were not enough, Beta has added the addition of a 48mm KYB AOS closed cartridge front fork. The new fork has been coupled with an updated Sachs rear shock to provide a balanced suspension package.
New features include:
Engine 4-stroke (350/390/430/480 cc):
A complete redesign, with the aim of reducing the weight and bulk of moving parts, achieved by raising the clutch and moving the crankshaft back. Moving the center of gravity closer to the swingarm pivot makes for significantly better handling. An overall weight reduction of 2.2 lbs.
250 / 300 RR RacE EdITIonS - ThE FlagShIp
A redesigned magnesium clutch cover, redeveloped to improve the oil flow into the clutch assembly more efficiently.
Magnesium flywheel cover, redesigned in-line with the rest of the engine, now with a more functional and modern look.
New water pump system that improves flow-rate and therefore the efficiency of the cooling system’s ability to transfer heat, keeping average temperatures lower,
improving performance, and providing a more simplified cooling hose system.
Cylinder and head redesigned matched with the updated cooling system to lower engine temperatures.
Oil circuit redesigned to provide better heat transfer between oil and water in the front section of the crankcase in order to keep the oil temperature lower.
Updated charging system that provides higher output.
Clutch with redesigned discs in a new material to ensure smoother and more modular gear shifting.
Redesigned gearing, now shorter and lighter.
New gearshift mechanism with lighter cam to improve shifting.
Gearshift lever redesigned in line with the new engine and frame layout.
Updated EFI mapping.
Machined aluminum oil fill plugs and oil filter cover
New 4 Stroke Engines for 2020
2-stroke (250/300 cc):
Now with a counter-balancer to reduce vibration by increasing inertia and improving the power delivery curve. The counter-balancer improves the power delivery throughout the rpm range.
Cylinder head redesigned (250 cc only) to improve torque at low rpm.
Machined aluminum oil fill plug
New expansion chamber, improved performance across the power range (125 cc only)
Chassis: (All Race Edition Models)
All-New frame with redesigned geometry and rigidity for increased agility and stability. Weight is reduced and reliability boosted with the use of precision-cast components, while comfort is improved and vibration reduced thanks to new head bolts. The frame is also narrower at the base which improves handling over difficult sections and typical off-road tracks.
Modified swingarm, now longer for the 4-stroke range for better stability and traction.
Completely redesigned tailpiece, greater strength to reduce breakage during off road riding, all filter box components and related accessories are now housed inside it (electrical components and oil reservoir for 2-strokes).
New air filter boot.
Air Filter mounting system, providing quicker and more accurate installation.
KYB 48mm AOS Closed Cartridge front fork
Beta engineers working with KYB to provide a balanced feel to the bike during racing or play riding.
New rear shock absorber with:
New top-out system, now a spring to improve grip and contact with the ground during hard braking.
New longer shock bumper with more progressive compression. This ensures good protection of the buffer and improves bottoming resistance.
New valving, to work in-line with the new frame.
Cooling system with water hoses placed inside the frame and more efficient radiators. This improves heat transfer and allows engines to operate at lower temperatures even in the most extreme conditions.
Larger capacity fuel tanks, of 2.4 US gallons for 4-strokes and 2.55 US gallons for 2-strokes. Besides providing greater range, the new fuel tanks improve ergonomics and ease-of-movement in the seat.
Wider handlebars for greater control.
Exhaust with new layout in line with the bike’s new rear section.
Side stand with bigger foot pad.
New machined aluminum footpegs that are extra wide.
Map SwITch locaTIon
New chain guide, longer to suit new swingarm.
New brake pedal, more robust and with larger bearings.
Shorter 430/480 cc gearing compared to previous models.
Metzeler Six Days tires, offering better traction and durability.
Machined aluminum rear chain adjuster blocks.
Dual material rear sprocket, lightweight aluminum center with steel teeth for durability.
Special Racing graphics and seat cover with a pouch
Front axle pull for quick wheel removal
Moto-Style hand guards
Design
Completely new superstructure (front cowl, front and rear fenders, ducts and fairings) that improves ergonomics and the operation of all related parts retaining the Italian design Beta is known for.
Front fender with variable thickness geometry which reduces weight and increases rigidity.
New tailpiece in techno-polymer.
New tailpiece attachments in techno-polymer.
New handlebar protector.
Redesigned seat, more comfortable when moving about on the bike.
New silencer protector (excluding 125 cc).
New digital instruments and instrument panel.
New location for MAP switch
Redesigned skid plate.
New rear light and license plate bracket with integrated grab handles.
New frame protectors.
Also new for 2020 is the ability for customers to order any RR or RR-S model straight from the factory with a 2” lower seat height over the stock models. These “lowboy” models add an additional $599.00 to the MSRP and have parts installed inside the front fork and rear shock to lower the seat height.
Beta USA’s popular BYOB (Build Your Own Beta) program will continue for 2020. This program allows riders to custom build his or her new Beta to fit their special needs by allowing the addition of more than 400 accessories to their bike. Race Editions will be available to order through the BYOB program in December. n
• A versatile trials or trail bike (with the addition of a removable seat)
• The T-18 Dragonfly is an adult electric trials bike featuring a real hydraulic clutch
• A 5 speed gearbox provides the best match of engine power to terrain requirements
• M4 39mm Aluminum AIR FORKS
• Special Ohlins shock direct to swing arm (Linkless suspension)
• 3 hr quick change battery
• Weighs in at 132 pounds
gR anT wR angl
KENDA AMA NATIONAL ENDDURO SERIES
ROUND 9
JOHN ZINK RANCH
SAND SPRINGS, OKLAHOMA
OCTOBER 20, 2019
anglES ThE R anch
Grant Baylor grabbed his fifth win of the season, and second in a row, at round nine of the Kenda AMA National Enduro Series at the Zink Ranch National Enduro in Sand Springs, Oklahoma. After seven tests and 65 miles of racing, Grant topped his brother and Tely Energy Racing teammate Steward Baylor by 13 seconds.
Grant won just two of the seven tests, but his consistencywas more than enough to earn him the “W”.
“I usually start out a little slow here in the grass track, but I was still able to click off the test win,” said Grant. “From then on, me and Stewart were pretty close and he kept me on my toes. This place has never been the best track for me, so I’m definitely happy to come away with the win.”
Steward came into the race with a 31-point lead in the series standings and with a good chance to wrap up the championship a round early, needing only to finish ahead of Grant to sow things up. However, a series of mistakes by Steward and solid test times by Grant kept that from happening.
In all, Steward won more tests than Grant (3), but was too inconsistent and off the pace in the other four tests to catch his brother.
“I should have wrapped it up today; I had every opportunity,” said Steward. “I made a lot of mistakes throughout the day and made some bad decisions on setup in test three. Then I broke my thumb in test four. In the last test, I got turned around a mile or so from the finish and lost a good fifteen seconds which is what I needed to clinch the championship. It was a very frustrating day, to say the least.”
Steward needs only a top-15 finish at the final round in Alabama to clinch the title.
Husqvarna/Max Motorsports/FXR’s Evan Smith rounded out the podium in third, a position he’s starting to get used to. The Oklahoma race marked the fifth time Smith has finished third in 2019.
“I struggled in the sixth and seventh tests,” said Smith. “It was hard and slick, and I don’t ride that stuff as well, so I
gave up some time there. I was competitive until then. But other than that, I didn’t have any falls. No big moments or anything. It was pretty steady.”
Beta USA’s Mike Witkowski got off to a tremendous start, and was leading the race after two tests having gone 1-2 in the first two tests.
“That’s the first time I’ve ever won a test overall,” said Witkowski. “The last couple tests were pretty tough, though, and I struggled a little with all the rocks. I seem to excel in the faster stuff.”
Ron Commo came from behind to finish fifth overall and grabbed his first-ever win in the Pro2 class. The KTM was sitting in third place in class (seventh overall), about 12 seconds behind Nate Ferderer and Liam Draper, heading into the final test and after turning in a strong ride, moved into fifth overall and first in the Pro2 class by just two second ahead of Ferderer.
“I just knew that this was the shot that I had to actually win one,” said Commo. “I was close enough all day. I just rode as absolutely hard as I possibly could in that last test and just didn’t make any major mistakes.”
Ferderer settled into sixth overall at the finish and second in the Pro2 class on his Suzuki, although he was bummed at missing out on the win by just two seconds.
Liam Draper was seventh and third in the Pro2 division. The Tely Energy Racing rider wrapped up the Pro2 championship at the previous round in Indiana.
Young gun Noah Clark turned in one of his best performances to date with an eighth overall, and first in the AA class on a Yamaha.
XC Gear/Enduro Engineering/Husqvarna’s Jake Froman edged fellow Husqvarna rider Logan Kittock by four seconds for ninth overall. Kittock was also fourth in Pro2.
Thorn Devlin was turning in a great performance, running just outside of a podium position when a crash in test seven just a few feet from the exit sent the North American GasGas rider to the hospital, leaving him with a DNF for the
RJ COOK
event. Devlin was released from the hospital that evening.
Mepmx/Fly/Grizzly Peak/Traveler’s Rest Speedway/KTM’s Mackenzie Tricker won five of six tests en route to the win in the Women’s Elite class.
“I hit a tree pretty good and locked my front brake up and I had a bunch of wood and bark in there, so I lost like a minute or so in that test,” said Tricker.
Rachel Gutish won the fifth test and finished second. The Beta USA rider drove all night to the Oklahoma event after finishing second at the Denver EnduroCross on Saturday night.
“We’re on a three-week adventure out west because I’ve got to do both of the enduro-crosses, and then we’re heading straight from there to the last round of NEPG in Alabama, said Gutish. “So we’ve got the van just sky high with stuff. The only way we could figure out for me to have a place to rest, we strung a hammock up. We’re going down the road. I’m pretty sure I hit the ceiling at one point..”
Third place went to Dallas rider Alli Spurgeon.
“I’ve maybe ridden a bike twice in two years and I decided to come out here,” said Spurgeon. “I bought a bike from a friend. I came to pick it up and decided to ride too. It was a ton of fun. I can’t stop smiling right now.”
Celebrating the 25th anniversary of the ISDE held at the Zink Ranch in 1994, the Tulsa Trail Riders did a superb job, as usual, with this year’s event.
OVERALL RESULTS
1. Grant Baylor (KTM)
2. Steward Baylor (KTM)
3. Evan Smith (Hsq)
4. Mike Witkowski (Bet)
5. Ron Commo (KTM)
6. Nate Ferderer (Suz)
7. Liam Draper (KTM)
8. Noah Clark (Yam)
9. Jake Froman (Hsq)
10. Logan Kittock (Hsq)
MIchaEl chaplaIn SkIRTS onE oF ThE
ManY FIShIng pondS on ThE ZInk
Ranch En RoUTE To SIXTh In opEn B
logan kITTock waS 10Th oVERall and FoURTh In ThE pRo2 claSS
aRoUnd ThE pITS
Liasm Draper
SiDi boot winner Don Rainey with Melissa Randt
Alan Randt
PHOTOS BY SHAN MOORE
GRANT BAYLOR DOMINATES MUDDOBBERS
kEnda aMa naTIonal EndURo SERIES
RoUnd 8
oc ToBER 6, 2019
Upland, IndIana
MAX GERSTON
MACKENZIE TRICKER
The brothers Baylor continued their domination of the Kenda AMA National Enduro Series by finishing first and second for the sixth time this year at this weekend’s Muddobbers National Enduro in Matthews, Indiana.
Grant got the win this time, winning all six tests to beat out his older brother by 1:27 minutes. It was the second time this year Grant has won every test. With the victory the Tely Energy Racing KTM rider stayed mathematically in the hunt for the 2019 championship title, although it’s a longshot as he sits 31 points behind Steward in the standings with just two rounds remaining.
“This is probably my favorite enduro of the series,” said Grant. “I always have a lot of fun here and the trails are awesome.”
Grant started out the day with a big win in test one. After that he just put it on cruise control.
“I think I won the first test by about thirty seconds,” added Grant. “Then after that I just kind of started clicking them away. It was a flawless day.”
As he usually does, Steward got off to a slow start. However, he picked up the pace near the end of the race to slip past Ricky Russell to claim the runner-up slot. With two races remaining, Steward’s main focus is on the championship.
“With the championship on the line, anything can go wrong,” said Steward. “So, for most of the day I rode consistent. I knew I didn’t need to push it too hard with the points gap that I have. I’ve got to focus on the championship more than anything.”
Ricky Russell was a surprise entry. The Am Pro Yamaha rider also surprised everyone (and himself) by landing on the podium with a third.
Russell had been in the Midwest attending the AIMExpo and decided to stick around for the enduro. He’s also thinking about riding the series in 2020, so it was a good opportunity to get his feet wet.
The Indiana race marked just the second enduro Russell had ever ridden so he came into it not knowing what to expect.
LIAM DRAPER
“I really didn’t know where I fit in against these guys,” said Russell. “I usually struggle at these, but I finished second in the first three tests, so I was second place behind Grant at the halfway point. I was like, ‘man, I’m beating Stew’. I know Stew is the master at these so I felt good. Then I got kind of smoked on the fourth test, and then the sixth test I went through a creek really fast and my bike shut off. I sat there turning it over for probably ten to fifteen seconds. Then I rode way over my head after that to try to make up the time. But I’m happy to get third.”
Husqvarna/Max Motorsports/FXR’s Evan Smith battled back and forth with GasGas North America’s Thorn Devlin for fourth place. A great ride in the fifth test where he posted the third-fastest time was good enough to give Smith fourth overall ahead of Devlin by just 16 seconds.
Finishing sixth behind Devlin was Beta USA’s Mike Witkowski. Liam Draper was seventh overall and first in the NE Pro2 class. The Tely Energy Racing KTM rider suffered a hard crash in test two but managed to recover to claim
STEWARD BAYLOR
the class win.
New Zealander Dylan Yearbury finished eighth on an Am Pro Yamaha, while XC Gear/Enduro Engineering/Husqvarna’s Jake Froman, who recently returned to the series from an injury, was a solid ninth.
Former Pro Trials rider Ronnie Commo rounded out the top 10 on a KTM.
Like Ricky Russell, Beta USA’s EnduroCross star Max Gerston also attended the AIMExpo and stuck around to compete in the Muddobber National Enduro, finishing eighth in the Pro class. It was Gerston’s first east coast enduro.
“It was a different kind of challenging,” said Gerston. “I’m not used to charging that hard through stuff that tight. Having to go really, really fast through those tight trees, man, that was challenging, but I had fun for sure.”
Gerston has a hare-scramble title on the line out on the west coast and most certainly didn’t want to jeopardize his chances.
EVAN SMITH
Mackenzie Tricker wrapped up the Women’s Elite title with an impressive win in Indiana. The Mepmx/Fly/Grizzly Peak/Traveler’s Rest Speedway/KTM rider won all five of the tests in the class and beat out Am Pro Yamaha’s Rachel Archer by 3:29 minutes, and also topping the B class overall, despite riding with a sore shoulder.
“I injured my shoulder two weeks ago at the GNCC and I ended up re-breaking my scapula that I injured in ’17,” said Tricker. “I just took a lot of ibuprofen today and did what I had to do. I crashed in test three, but they ended up dropping it. Other than that, I rode good. I’m stoked.”
Tricker win seven of the eight races held so far this year en route to her championship.
“I come from a motocross background, so the last thing I ever thought I would do would be win a national enduro championship,” said Tricker. “So it’s great. I love enduro racing. Hopefully there’s more championships ahead and maybe in some other off-road series as well.”
THORN DEVLIN
RESULTS 1. Grant Baylor (KTM) 2. Steward Baylor (KTM)
Ricky Russell (Yam)
Evan Smith (Hsq)
Thorn Devlin (GG)
Mike Witkowski (Bet)
Liam Draper (KTM)
Dylan Yearbury (Yam)
Jake Froman (Hsq)
Ron Commo III (KTM)
MIKE WITKOWSKI
PHOTOS
Taddy Blazusiak Wins Haaker and Hart round out
Denver EnduroCross
TADDY BLAZUSIAK LEADS COLTON HAAKER
Round 2
Denver, Colorado
October 19, 2019
Photos by Diahann Tanke
Red Bull KTM Factory Racing backed Taddy Blazusiak came out on top of an exciting night of racing at the KTM Motorcycles Denver EnduroCross, presented by Fox Racing. A vocal crowd enjoyed a full night of close racing inside the National Western Complex.
New for 2019, the Super EnduroCross class uses a three moto format to determine the overall results and Blazusiak had strong 1-1-2 scores to take the top step of the podium. That second in the final moto came after a first-lap crash. Rockstar Husqvarna’s Colton Haaker finished second with 2-2-4 results. He finished a close second in the first two motos but a first-lap crash in moto three resulted in his leg being stuck in his bike. He managed to come back for a fourth to edge out RPM KTM’s Trystan Hart, who had 3-5-1 moto results.
For the second race in a row, Blazusiak got the day started by setting the fastest time during the Seat Concepts Hot Lap with a 48.618 second laps. Hart, TM’s Ty Cullins, Haaker and Beta’s Max Gerston rounded out the top five.
Hart took the Fox Holeshot in moto one with Cullins close behind. Blazusiak passed Cullins on lap two but it took him until lap five of nine to pass Hart for the lead. Haaker completed lap one in fifth and worked his way through the field to pass Hart for second on lap six. He closed in on Blazusiak but was not able to make a pass for the lead. Hart hung on for third. Gerston and Cullins rounded out the top five in moto one.
In moto two, the gate picks were reversed from the moto one results and SRT/ Three Bros Husqvarna backed Noah Kepple took the lead and led the first lap. Blazusiak came out second despite the second-row start and passed Kepple on lap two. Haaker moved past Kepple on lap three and again closed on Blazusaiak but again finished a close second. Kepple held on for third in the moto. Cullins and Hart finished fourth and fifth respectively.
Hart came out of turn one with the lead in moto three ahead of Kepple and Cullins. Blazusiak had a good start but was pushed a little wide and then he and Haaker collided on the second jump putting them both on the ground. BlazuAMA ENDUROCROSS CHAMPIONSHIP
TRYSTAN HART
siak got up pretty quickly and rejoined the race and completed lap one in ninth. Haaker’s leg was stuck in his bike and it took him a lot of time to get going well behind the field.
Upfront, Hart rode a flawless race to take the moto win. Blazusiak managed to work his way up to second place on lap five of nine and closed the gap a little on Hart but settled for second in the moto, which was more than enough for the overall win. Gerston finished third in the moto. Haaker sliced through the field and passed Cullins for fourth on the penultimate lap. That position was just enough to edge out Hart for second overall. Gerston finished fourth overall with 4-6-3 results. Cullins rounded out the top five overall with 5-4-5 scores.
“Awesome night, the racing was awesome, the track was good and the pro lane was good,” said Blazusiak. “It wasn’t too technical but still challenging to race on. The team did a lot of work with the bike since round one. I have been working really hard at home and everything went super smooth. So I am really happy with the race.”
“The whole night had a lot of chaos,” said Haaker. “The first two motos were pretty good and then in that final moto, I came out of the first turn with some stuff going on in front of me and I got in the middle of it somehow. It wasn’t my best night, I have had really good nights in Denver, I have always done well here but it is not always your night.”
Haaker will go to the Boise finale next weekend with a two-point lead over Blazusiak so the championship will likely go to the rider that finishes in front of the other.
2019 Denver AMA Super EnduroCross Overall Results
1. Taddy Blazusiak, 1-1-2, KTM
2. Colton Haaker, 2-2-4, Husqvarna
3. Trystan Hart, 3-5-1, KTM
4. Max Gerston, 4-6-3, Beta
5. Ty Cullins, 5-4-5, TM
6. Noah Kepple, 8-3-10, Husqvarna
7. Nick Thompson, 10-7-6, KTM
8. Geoff Aaron, 7-10-8, GasGas
9. Cory Graffunder, 6-8-11, Yamaha
10. Mason Ottersberg, 12-9-7, Beta
STEWARD BAYLOR
TRAINING, ATTITUDE AND ISDE
ON INJURIES...
MORE ON INJURIES...
THE KNEE... ON RETIREMENT... ON ISDE... ON MAINTENANCE... THE TEAM... ON FACTORY TEAMS... THE TESTS... SPEED AND TALENT..
One Crazy Year Will Come Down To Six Big Days
RYAN SIPES INTERVIEW
PHOTOS COURTESY Shan Moore and Courtesy Garth Milan/Red Bull Content Pool, Sebastian Marko/Red Bull Content Pool, Chris Tedesco and Future7Media/Red Bull Content Pool
After success in supercross, motocross, and off-road racing, Ryan Sipes decided to forgo any chance at a championship in 2019 (except the ISDE, but more on that later) and teamed up with Red Bull to try to make claim to being best overall motorcycle rider today. He’s chronicling the whole experiment with a Red Bull video series called General Sipes. We got on the phone with Ryan to get some insight into how his year is going, what he’s learned, and how being selected again to be on the US World Trophy Team for the ISDE factors into the whole experiment.
When you retired from motocross and supercross racing full-time, what were your goals and your options and your plans? I could have kept doing it. Obviously 2013 wasn’t my best year. I didn’t have a great supercross [season]; I had some okay success outdoors on the 450. At that point to be honest I had just gotten married and my wife had a kid when we met. I was not having as much fun as I used to have racing dirt bikes. I wanted to be home and be a dad. So I just kind of decided I’m going to go home and hang out in Kentucky. I had always had my eye on doing some off-road stuff down the road, and went to the last GNCC that year and kind of met the KTM people and everything. I went and did ISDE on the club team as kind of just an intro to off-road and to see if I was any good at it. One thing led to another and I got a little bit of support and then jumped into the GNCC.
What or who helped you the most adapt from motocross to off-road?
I’d have to say Steve Hatch, for sure. I had worked with him from my supercross days from ’08 or ’09, all the way through my supercross days. It seemed a little crazy to me, but I would go to his house in Arizona and we would ride off-road to prep for super-cross. The first couple times I’m like, ‘This guy is a kook. Why would I ride this? I need to be pounding laps on the supercross track.’ But every single time I would go there, ride off-road, and then come back to the supercross track and do better. So doing some of that I learned a little bit about off-road, and also growing up we never got to go down south to Florida or wherever to ride during the winter. We just rode in the woods in the wintertime. We didn’t race in the winter. We just kind of rode, because that’s what you had to do to get away from the mud. Long story short: Steve Hatch and grow-ing up in Kentucky were the two things that kind of helped me to adapt to off-road.
During most of your career, you’ve had traditional contracts. This year
you have a very unconventional contract with Red Bull. How do you decide which events you’re going to do for the year?
It has a lot to do with them. We’re looking for high-profile events. I can’t be out there doing local races and have the story work because we’re doing this video series that is kind of highlighting the schedule I’m doing. So, looking for all the high-profile events, it’s really up to them. I have a little bit of say. I can call them up and say, “Hey, this looks like fun. What do you think about this?” But in the end, it’s all up to them. It’s been fun kind of putting this thing together.
How does your contract this year financially compare to other traditional contracts you’ve had?
It’s still not quite what I made in supercross, but I’m getting a little bit closer.
At the GNCC in Florida, you aggravated your shoulder. From the video, you suggested that you could do supercross but you couldn’t do GNCC. Could you tell me which type of racing is more brutal on your body?
GNCC, no doubt about it. Well, that’s if you don’t crash. If you do crash, crashing in su-percross is much worse. From the GNCC side, especially down there in Florida, it’s just all sand whoops. That’s what hurts the shoulder - is when it pulls; and every sand whoop you hit, it’s pulling. The shoulder is a little bit better since then, but there’s some stuff torn in there. To make it perfect again I need to have it fixed. But I’m too busy rac-ing right now, so maybe this fall I’ll try to get it worked on.
After the Nashville supercross, you said you didn’t feel like you rode well but you still got an eighth place. Are we going to see you racing some more supercrosses?
I plan to next year, for sure. I want to. It was fun. It’s not my forte anymore, but I still felt like I could ride it pretty good. I definitely want to do a few more, I think.
This year you raced Erzberg for the first time. Had you ever visited there before? How did you prepare for that event?
No, I had never been before. The way I prepared for it was watching a bunch of videos. But that didn’t prepare me like I needed it to. It looks hard, but when you get there in person it’s ten times bigger. It was almost like you don’t even recognize the stuff. It def-initely opened my eyes to what’s possible on a dirt bike. Those dudes that are good at that stuff are just amazing. But now that I know what to expect, even though it was probably the hardest race I ever did, I do want to go
back and see if I can finish next year.
You’ve also raced some hill climbs this year. Had you ever ridden one of the humung-ous twin engine motorcycles?
No. Even this year I didn’t ride the big, super nitro bikes just because I kind of felt like, ‘Let’s keep it safe through this time and get my intro to this thing.’ But I’d never ridden an extended swingarm bike, either. That was something pretty new and different that took a little getting used to. I actually went out the night before. I asked the guys, “If I’m doing this thing, I’d like to ride the bike a little bit beforehand because I want to do good. I don’t want to get up there on this extended swingarm the day of the race and crash because I’m not used to it.” So one of their top riders, Logan Cipala, and then Matt Musgrove, who promotes the series, they took me out the night before. We actual-ly went to the Taters’, another family that does hill climbs. They have a little practice hill, so we went up there and kind of got used to the swingarm a little bit. It ended up being huge for me because it was different to start with. Once I had a couple runs on it then I felt a lot better.
Throughout your career you’ve raced motocross, supercross, GNCC, sprint enduro, ISDE, flat track, hard enduro and hill climb. You have some unique perspective. Which one is the hairiest, and which one takes the most talent? That question is all about perspective because I could say that it takes more talent to race to do a hard enduro, but tell that to a guy that’s only done hard enduro his whole life. He would say supercross takes more talent, because he’s already good at hard enduro. You take a supercross guy, they would say there’s nobody that’s on our level. We’re the most talented dudes. Put them at Erzberg and they’re going, ‘This takes way more talent.’ Then as far as you said the hairiest, supercross is the highest risk factor thing that I’ve ever done, just because you’re going so fast and there’s so little room for error. There are rhythm sections where the jumps are dang near vertical, and if you crash you’re not just sliding down the dirt or rolling in the grass. You’re landing into one of those faces. That’s the one that worries me the most. I haven’t done any of the desert racing, Baja and all that, and I don’t want to. It looks too dangerous for me. But supercross, the risk factor is really high to go as fast as you need to go to be competi-tive.
When you set out this pretty wild schedule in 2019, there was no mention of ISDE. Was on the schedule and you were just waiting to hear the team announcement? Why no ISDE on the schedule?
Just because I hadn’t heard if I was on the team yet or not. I definitely kept that week open and kept the possibility open of doing it because it’s one of my favorite events. I told Red Bull when we were making the thing, I want to do ISDE if they have me on the team. Thankfully that worked out and I’m looking forward to going back. I had kind of a rough year last year, so I need some redemption.
You mentioned earlier that you jumped into ISDE as one of your first events off-road. Doesn’t that strike you as kind of a pretty high-level, intense event? What was your thought going into it the first time?
Yeah, but I was on the club team. It was just a way to go. If I had went there and I was terrible at off-road, then it wouldn’t have been a big deal because I was on the club team. But I turned out to be okay at it, and had probably, without some crashes - I was just trying to go too fast and not being used to taking it back just a notch so you stay up. Without that, I think I would have won the club division, which would have been cool for me for the first time, but I think also that’s what helped me to get a chance with KTM the next year in GNCC.
Back to ISDE, the next year, in 2015 in Slovakia you won the overall, and then the next year you were out with an injury when the team finally won the entire event. Do you have a special sense that you really want to be on that trophy team when it wins again?
Well, yeah. That’s my thing. It would be great to win it individually again, but I’ve al-ready done that. I want to be a part of the team that wins it. Like this year I’ll ride a 250F, which isn’t what I normally ride, but that’s what the team needs so I’m going to do it because I want to be able to be on the team that wins the trophy.
Do you enjoy the bike maintenance aspect of ISDE? Have you had any problems or near disasters during the bike prep time?
It’s pretty simple. As long as you stay calm. If you get in a hurry, that’s like the worst thing you can do. Even though it seems like you should, you have to stay calm and just get the job done. I’ve never really had anything crazy happen besides being a little bit stressed out to get it done in time, but nothing real crazy.
You have a really cool video series called General Sipes. You’re doing all these amazing things, and the narrator, who is funny, is kind of making fun of you. Do you enjoy that, or does it annoy you that this guy is ripping on you when you’re doing amazing stuff?
No, I don’t care. That’s part of the deal. I think he’s been fair. The year started out doing all the Daytona stuff and I didn’t crush it. I think I did well at supercross, but the other two I didn’t. So I think that’s all part of it. It’s fun to kind of hear what he comes up with to say about what I’m doing.
Are you involved at all in the narration of it?
Nope. I film all the stuff. Basically they follow me around and I film all the stuff and then I get to see the final draft right before it comes out. So I don’t have anything to do with it, really.
This year is almost like a social experiment. Has doing all this made any changes to your life outside of dirt bikes? Just doing all these different things and trying to adapt so rapidly to everything?
Not outside of dirt bikes. There’s no previous people to follow and to emulate when I practice and go through all the stuff because nobody has really done this. I guess they did way back in the day, but nobody does as many kinds of things as I’m doing, so for me it’s trial and error. Let’s try this and see how this works. It is a delicate balance of trying to figure out how much do you practice each one. How do you train? Because they’re all different physically, too. Just that. It’s a challenge sometimes being gone so much from the family and stuff. We’ve got three kids. I don’t enjoy being gone, but at the same time they’re supportive and they understand that daddy’s got to work.
You have to have an incredible amount of confidence that you can do anything that you set your mind to now. Has it translated over into something outside of racing? Your kid wants to learn something and you’re like, ‘I can teach him that.’
I’ve always kind of felt that way. If Pete Peterson can do it, then I can probably do it. I just got to figure out how. If Johnny Walker can do it, I can probably do it. I just got to figure out how. I’ve never had a lack of self-confidence, just knowing that I’m pretty good at figuring stuff out and I’ve got some talent on a dirt bike, so let’s go for it. Obvi-ously, there’s things that I’m not awesome at, but I think I’ve been pretty good at most of it. As far as that compared to other things in my life, I’m not really scared to do a whole lot. I think I have great relationships with all my sponsors and everything, so as far as business stuff goes, I think I’ve done pretty well with that. We’ll see when I get done doing all this racing stuff. I’m not scared. Whatever the new challenge is, I’ll fig-ure it out.
In the Erzberg video of General Sipes, you mentioned you needed to do some trials bike training. Have you done any before? Are we going to see you on a trials bike in your video series?
I’ve had a couple trials bikes since my supercross days, since probably 2010, but this year I haven’t ridden them that much. I used to ride them a lot when I was doing GNCC, just because they helped me so much with the technical side of the GNCC stuff. When I asked the guys - I’ve asked Haaker and Johnny Walker and Cody Webb, I’m like, “You guys probably ride trials a lot, right?” They’re like, “No, we just ride our big bikes.” So that’s what I ended up doing without really thinking that they’re already good at trials. They need to ride the big bike, where I need to ride the trials bike more. I need to get those skills down on the trials bike because it’s different trying to learn that stuff on a big bike. So, I will be on the trials bike more. The Red Bull guys are coming to film at some point this year here at the house. If that’s what they want me to do, I’ll jump on it. I’m not great on it, but I have a lot of fun with it.
Why do you run the number 264?
As a kid, when we were just getting into racing, I’m four years old, dad said, “How do you pick your number? You take the last two digits of your AMA number.” That’s kind of an old school thing. I don’t think a lot of people do that anymore. So, it was 64. The last three of my AMA number are 764. At first it started out to be 64 and then when I went pro in ’04, I did four nationals that year and I had to be a threedigit. I couldn’t be a two-digit because you had to get points for that. That was just the number we put in front of it. I did that at a couple amateur nationals, too. You just put a 2 in front of it and then you got your three digits. Nothing special about it. No meaning or anything like that. That’s kind of how it happened. n
good old TIMES Blog FOURTH HALLMAN TITLE
BY kEnnETh olaUSSon phoToS: hUSqVaRna
Between 1959 and 1966 Husqvarna had conquered four MX championships in the 250cc class. Torsten Hallman had three world titles and Rolf Tibblin one European victory when plans for the 1967 season began. On top of that, the Swedish brand had recently been introduced to the USA, where people fancied both style and quality from the Viking country. So, everything looked promising and Husqvarna decided to double their racing budget, with clever money, for the coming season…
The Husqvarna factory had improved their bikes continuously during the 60s. After serious research and development, the 250cc racer had a new, rigid frame for 1966. Simultaneously, the power plant was mounted lower than before, which improved road-holding for both mx and offroad. The front forks were also brand new, now developed and produced in-house as opposed to earlier days. The pri-
mary transmission was geared to offload strain on the gearbox. It was an improved machine for the five factory riders who would ride for the team in 1967. In addition to Hallman and Olle Pettersson, Ake Jonsson, Hakan Andersson and Staffan Eneqvist also received support. All in all, the factory produced 1,200+ 250cc units for the world markets, save a hundred bikes sold in Sweden. Subsequently, 188,000 Swedish Kronor was budgeted for Husqvarna’s total motocross operation, more or less double the figure of the previous season.
Battling for positions began in Sabadell, Spain at the end of April. The Russian world champion in 1965, CZ-mounted Victor Arbekov started out by winning on this beautiful circuit. Olle Pettersson came home second while Torsten Hallman broke down, missing valuable world championship points. The Swiss Grand Prix at Payerne is special because of the track layout. The steep hills are demanding and are combined with fast straightaways on a hard surface. These conditions suited Hallman well, but it was also a favourite of his antagonist Joel Robert from Belgium. The pair finished one-two, advantage Sweden. Olle P came eighth. There had been two false starts and the third was also questionable. Olle waited, but the heat was never red-flagged so he left the starting area last, way behind and furious, of course!
Green grass was the order of the day in Vannes, France. This track in Brittany was the scene of yet another clash between Hallman and Robert. The Belgian was faster here, so the overall standings were almost level after three rounds. A week later Robert was unbeatable on his home turf in Hechtel and Hallman crossed the line in second. Three weeks later Torsten had his revenge in Bielstein, Germany while Robert broke down on his Czech CZ. Olle Pettersson was second, which meant that Husqvarna scored a double victory here. Sand and Holland are often compatible. In Norg, Joel showed top form and won while Hallman had to retire. Then the trip went south towards Italy where Cuneo lies close to Torino. Here, 1967 is remembered for another double Husky trophy victory. Torsten won while Olle P hit second, well ahead of monsieur Robert.
In Halstead, north of London, the order was once again reversed when Joel R took an early command of the race. Olle P was third while Hallman retired. If Belgium was good for Robert, Motala in Sweden was favoured by the Swedish riders. The podium was fully occupied by Husqvarna men: 1. Hallman, 2. Pettersson, 3. Hakan Andersson. A giant triumph on home turf. A week later, everybody took the ferry to the east, as it was time for the Finnish GP in sandy Hyvinkää. Olle Pettersson had always been strong on this dusty circuit and in 1967, it was no exception. “Since Hallman had the chance of winning the championship, I waited for him in the first run”, said Olle P, “but Hallman did not want to hear of such a thing and therefore had to be content with the second spot as I won this Grand Prix overall”.
The trips to Russia in the Soviet Union have been mentioned in other Husqvarna blogs. This time the riders went to Belgorod in the southwestern part of the vast country in the East. A record crowd of 100,000 spectators came to watch Torsten Hallman secure his fourth world championship title. Since Robert broke down, nobody could threaten the brilliant Swede, who now won Husqvarna’s seventh motocross title overall. The 12th and last round of the season in mid-August was held in Szczecin, Poland. Olle P had a theoretical chance of finishing second in the final standings, but Robert made no mistake. Pettersson had to be content with the last overall podium position in the final world championship ranking.
All in all, Husqvarna scored five double wins in 1967 with Hallman and Pettersson. Hakan Andersson was sixth while a Finnish rookie rider by the name of Heikki Mikkola took his very first world championship point, finishing 25th in the chart. 10 years later he would also be a Husqvarna world champion. What an iconic season! n
2019 Schedule
• February 24 - CTC Fun Trial
• March 30-31 - Trials Training Days
• May 4-5 - Splish Spalsh Trial (STRA)
• June 23-26 - Family Camp
• June 27-29 - East Coast Youth Nationals & Women’s Open
• June 28 - TdN Fundraiser Gate Trial
• June 30 - July 4 - Great American Teen Camp (Invitational)
• August 16-18 - 9th Annual Kenda Tennessee Knock Out
• September TBA - ITSA Vintage Trial National
• October 19-20 - 27th Annual 58K Fall Trial
• December 1 - Troy Trial - CTC Winter Series Round 1
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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
TRIAL des NATIONS
phoToS BY pEp SEgalES
TONI BOU
2019 US Trial des Nations Team: Top Left to Right: Daniel Blanc-Gonnet, Bottow Left to Right: Louise Forsley,
Blanc-Gonnet, Pat Smage, Josh Roper, Team manager Todd Roper. Forsley, Maddie Hoover, Kylie Sweeten
TAKAHISA FUJINAMI
The 36th Trial des Nations was held on the Spainish island of Ibiza. Organized by the hard working members MotoClub de Formentera I Eivissa the TdN drew 29 teams from 17 different countries. The World Class had 6 teams, International Class 13 and Women 10.
The USA team was made up of Maddie Hoover, Kylee Sweeten,, Louise Forsley, Pat Smage, Josh Roper (I ain’t no Rookie), Daniel Blanc-Gonnet. Team Manager and the man who makes it all happen is Todd Roper. TdN Moms Vonda Roper and Sabrina Hoover feed us all and make sure that the team is where it’s supposed to be and looking good. Minders for the event were Nigel Parker (Mr. Goodwrench), Alex Meyer and David Roper. Gary Hoover keeps the pits running smoothly and keeps us all smiling. Videographer is Hannah Smage. Check out her VLog, it’s great. These are the real people that do the work and make it all happen.
The Paddock opens on Thursday and teams pick their spots. The big Factory trucks are up front. In the middle were all the smaller rigs in the middle and in the back
TONI BOU
the big rigs of National teams like Spain, France and Italy. It’s great to see the Teams from Sweden, Lativia, Belgium, Ireland, Portugal and Andorra set up rigs a lot like you would see at a US National. Many teams were camped out for the weekend. Hotels are not cheap on Ibiza. The organization made available real showers and bathrooms for all.
Registration and Tech Inspection take place on Saturday. Sound tests are done on one of the Men’s bike and one of the Women’s bikes. A common CDI box is used. We had a little trouble because some of our back protectors were missing the Homologation tags. Those tags on the safety gear like helmets and spine protectors are important. In the end we got through, except for Nigel Parker. His helmet had a small gouge in it and so it was confiscated. They gave Nigel a receipt and told him he could have his helmet back after the event.
Qualifying is on Saturday. This was held right on the waterfront next to mulit-million Euro Yachts. The Police escorted a long procession with all the teams through
PAT SMAGE
town and to the Qualifying site. Team USA really shined in Qualifying. Maddie and Louise really rode fast and most importantly clan. Maddie has been in Europe all year and knows how to throw down a fast time. Louise has been tearing ass around the Marvel Universe shows and has picked up some speed. In the end they were 3rd and 4th fastest. An awesome result. The boys were next. Josh put down a fast lap for a Rookie (5th) that would have given us a good start time if something had happened to Pat. Pat just plain smoked it. Fast, smooth and with and economy of motion he beat the rest of the International Class by 2.5 seconds. His tail whip over the last obstacle and feet up slide in the last turn was a thing of beauty. Last year the FIM decided to run both Women’s and Men’s teams together on the same day. This causes some traffic problems during the event and some extra work for countries with both teams. Many countries have requested that we go back to the Women riding on Saturday and Men on Sunday. Let’s see if the FIM listens. The sun rose early on Sunday and the riders set off for a day on the rocks of Ibiza.
DANIEL BLANC-GONNET
It became clear after lap one that section 9 would be the decider. Germany led the Men on lap one with 1 point, USA had 2 and Sweden 4. Our girls held tight and were within striking distance of the podium all day. In the end our guys finished 3rd . Sweden snuck by us and Germany held strong in First. Our Ladies were fifth. This was our best ever result for our Women’s team. We were 8 points off the podium. We had been fifth before but we had never been that close to the podium before. Kylee, Maddie and Louise you guys can be proud.
Putting this team on the starting line in a foreign country every year since 1984 (except 9/11) could not happen without the support of the US Trials community. Many teams get financial support from their National Motorcycling Federation or their National Government Sporting Departments. Team USA is and always has been a grass roots effort. Thank you all for supporting Team USA. n
LOUISE
JOSH ROPER
KYLIE SWEETEN
MADDIE HOOVER
TONI BOU
MADDIE HOOVER
ALEXANDRE FERRER
TOMOYUKI OGAWA
ADAM RAGA
TAKAHISA FUJINAMI
PHOTOS BY PEP SEGALES
TRIAL DES NATIONS BEHIND THE SCENES PHOTO GALLERY
PHOTOS BY VONDA ROPER
2019 WORLD SUPER ENDURO
Dec 8 Krakow, Poland
Jan 5 Riesa, Germany
Jan 26 Madrid, Spain
Feb 9 Budapest, March 9 Bilbao, Spain
2019 FIM WORLD ENDURO
April 12-14
TBA May 10-12 Santiago, May 17-19 Valpacos, June 14-16 Ajaccio, Corsica
June 21-23 Rovetta, Italy
Sept 13-15 Janovice, Czech Sept 27-29 Ambert, France
2019 FIM WORLD ENDURO
May 10-12
Extreme XL
May 17-19 Trèfle Lozérien
May 30-June 2 Erzbergrodeo, TBA Classic Enduro, July 30-Aug 4 Red Bull Romaniacs, Sept 21-22 Hawkstone
Oct 5-6 Solsona Enduro, Nov 2-3 GetzenRodeo,
2019 INTERNATIONAL SIX DAYS November 11-16 Portimao, 22019
WWW.SPRINTENDURO.COM
Feb 9-10 Gaston, SC
March 2-3 Blackshear, GA
April 6-7 Greeneville, TN
May 25-26 Glen Daniel, WV
June 15-16 Bristol, VA
July 13-14 Fairmount City, PA
ENDURO
Poland
Germany
Spain
Budapest, Hungary
Spain
CHAMPIONSHIP
Spain
Portugal
Corsica
Italy
Czech Republic
France
SUPER
SERIES
XL Lagares, Pprtugal
Lozérien AMV, France
Erzbergrodeo, Austria)
Enduro, Italy
Romaniacs, Romania
Hawkstone Park Cross Country, UK
Enduro, Spain
GetzenRodeo, Germany
DAYS ENDURO
Portugal
Aug 10-11 Hayesville, NC
Sept 1-2 Laurens, SC
2019 WORCS
Jan 11-13 Primm, NV
Feb 1-3
March 1-3
Glen Helen, CA
Lake Havasu City, AZ
March 15-17 Peoria, AZ
April 12-14
Las Vegas, NV
April 26-28 Milford, CA
May 17-19 Mesquite, NV
July 31-Aug 4 Grays Harbor, WA
Sept 6-8
Glen Helen, CA
Sept 27-29 Taft, CA
Oct 25-27 Primm, NV
2019 Best In The Desert
Jan 11-12 Parker, AZ
Mar 7-10
Las Vegas, NV
April 5-7 Laughlin, NV
May 2-5 Alamo, NV
Aug 14-17 Vegas-to-Reno
2019 TRIALS INC.
WWW.TRIALSINC.ORG
April 13-14 Tippecanoe, Ohio
April 27-28 Garrettsville, OH
Mar 18-19
Little Hocking, OH
Jul 20-21 Toronto, OH
Aug 10-11 Sidell, IL
Aug 31-Sept 1 Newark, OH
Sept 14-15 Bloominton, IN
Sept 28-29
Nov 3
Bedford, KY
Pickerington, OH