World Championship List

All-Time - The Lists

Everyone knows I love our history and seeing that I have been going to motocross since 1971, well, I guess a lot of my childhood memories were at the motocross track. Again, this week we have seen champions crowned and GPs won, so the All-Time lists also changed.

Tim Gajser moves up a few places in the GP winners list and title list, which is the biggest news from the week. The Slovenian is now equal eight in the World champions list with Jeffrey Herlings, Torsten Hallman, Harry Everts and Heikki Mikkola, while he is equal with Georges Jobe, Andre Malherbe and Paul Friedrichs in 13^th place in all-time GP winners on 28 GP wins.

Good to see Tom Vialle join the World motocross champions list and as a single time World champion and with his 8 GP wins has him 11^th in the current list of riders for GP success. Just one behind Max Nagl for that 10^th spot.

Vialle also joins an impressive list of current riders who have won the MX2 World championship, those being Antonio Cairoli, Jeffrey Herlings, Tim Gajser, Jorge Prado, Jordi Tixier, Ken Roczen, Marvin Musquin, and Pauls Jonass.

Ben Watson of course became the 29^th current rider to make the GP winners list, so welcome to this amazing group of athletes. Of course, Max Anstie isn’t racing GP this year, or Tommy Searle, but they are still current riders and might return, you just never know.

At least four from the current riders list will retire this year, those being Thomas Covington, Gautier Paulin, Tanel Leok, and Clement Desalle, and Jeremy Van Horebeek might join that list as he lost his ride for 2021 recently.

All-Time World Champions - Top 20

1. Stefan Everts 10

2. Antonio Cairoli 9

3. Joel Robert 6

4. Roger De Coster 5

5. Eric Geboers 5

6. Georges Jobe 5

7. Joel Smets 5

8. Tim Gajser 4

9. Jeffrey Herlings 4

10. Torsten Hallman 4

11. Harry Everts 4

12. Heikki Mikkola 4

13. Dave Thorpe 3

14. Andre Malherbe 3

15. Paul Friedrichs 3

Gajser Wins MXGP Championship #4

Gajser Wins GP - Perfect Day

HRC rider Tim Gajser finished off a great Wednesday when he finished with a 2-1 score and the GP victory, his 28^th in his career and the perfect gift for his fourth World title victory earlier in the day. On a day when he became the most successful Honda rider in Grand Prix history the Slovenian looked more than just a good World champ, but a great one.

“I mean I am super satisfied, but it was weird with the break between the second race, and then we continued racing. One more time (championship) and a huge thank you to everyone and all the fans. I am just so happy at the moment and we are going to celebrate today.”

Gajser took the lead of the restart of the second MXGP moto (the first try out was red flagged as Van Horebeek got stuck in Gajsers back wheel) from Van Doninck, Seewer, Febvre, Cairoli, Desalle, Monticelli, Bogers, Tixier, and Walsh 10^th.  After three laps it was Gajser with a 2.7 second lead, while Seewer was fighting off Febvre, then came Desalle, Cairoli, Bogers, Van Doninck, Paulin, Monticelli, and Walsh 10^th.

Febvre moved up on Gajser and after five laps was just 1.4 seconds behind the new World MXGP champion, and old mates Desalle and Cairoli battled for fourth position. The top ten was Gajser, Febvre, Seewer, Desalle, Cairoli, Bogers, Paulin, Van Donick, Monticelli and Walsh.

Not wanting to sound disrespectful, as the riders are clearly legends in this tough sport, but similar to MX2 this second MXGP moto wasn’t introducing much action as the riders seemingly have closed up shop a little for 2020, which is understandable considering the tough year they have had.  Gajser wins the race and the GP, picking up the perfect day.

MXGP - Grand Prix Race 2 - Classification

1. Tim Gajser (SLO, Honda), 34:44.449; 2. Romain Febvre (FRA, Kawasaki), +0:02.940; 3. Jeremy Seewer (SUI, Yamaha), +0:29.409; 4. Clement Desalle (BEL, Kawasaki), +0:38.367; 5. Antonio Cairoli (ITA, KTM), +0:51.007; 6. Brian Bogers (NED, KTM), +0:56.175; 7. Gautier Paulin (FRA, Yamaha), +0:59.864; 8. Ivo Monticelli (ITA, GASGAS), +1:02.902; 9. Brent Van doninck (BEL, Yamaha), +1:07.102; 10. Valentin Guillod (SUI, Honda), +1:14.378; 11.

Bucket List Race for Vet Racers

New Deals: MotoConcepts

Lewis Phillips

Smartop Bullfrog Spas MotoConcepts Racing has announced a four-rider team for the 2021 Monster Energy Supercross season, including two new signings. The biggest point of interest here is that Joey Savatgy has not signed, as most presumed he would.

Smartop Bullfrog Spas MotoConcepts Racing (MCR) is pleased to announce its 2021 rider line-up as they welcome new and returning faces to the team.

MCR is excited to announce the addition of Shane McElrath to its 450 program. McElrath brings veteran experience and an impressive resume as he transitions from the 250 class to the 450 class for the 2021 season. The runner-up in the 2020 250SX West championship title and third place overall finisher in the 2020 Lucas Oil Pro Motocross series, McElrath is proven to be a consistent top-contender, capable of getting the job done. “I look forward to working with Shane as I think MCR’s top-level management and bike development team are going to allow him to succeed in what can often be a challenging period as a rider transitions from one class to another,” said MCR Team Owner, Mike Genova.

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Monster Energy Media

Also joining the team for the 2021 season is Missouri native and veteran 450 rider Benny Bloss. “Benny’s display of speed and whoop strength in the final rounds of the 2020 season allowed us to see the raw talent he possesses. We feel the MCR program will allow him improved starts, which will help put him up front, and the speed he possesses will keep him up front,” said Tony Alessi, MCR’s Team Manager.

Returning to the team following a top-ten overall finish in the 2020 Supercross season is Oregon native Justin Hill. The former 250 West Supercross Champion will return to the track aboard a 2020 CRF450R. “Justin displayed the commitment and hard work we expected to see last year, which showed in his speed, allowing him to secure eight top-ten finishes. We are sure we’ll see an even higher-level from Justin in 2021,” said Genova.

Finishing out the 2021 rider line-up is returning MCR rider, Vince Friese. Because of Vince’s experience and knowledge, he will be an integral part of developing the 2021 Honda CRF450R to the level of MCR’s 2020 Honda CRF450R bikes.

In addition to the Monster Energy Supercross Series, MCR is committed to participating in some or all of the 2021 AMA Lucas Oil Pro Motocross series should rider health and world conditions allow. “Our mission in 2021 is to utilise the testing and development abilities of Vince Friese to turn the new model CRF 450 into a race-winning package for future seasons,” said Alessi.

The 2020 Monster Energy Supercross Series begins at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas on January 16 and travels the country concluding at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Utah at a date yet to be announced.

Words: Press Release | Lead Image: Monster Energy Media

New Training: Dean Wilson

New Training: Dean Wilson

Lewis PhillipsOctober 31, 20200

Dean Wilson will make a change to his programme ahead of the 2021 Monster Energy Supercross season, as he has made the decision to start training at the Baker’s Factory. Wilson will not be on the full programme, like Zach Osborne and Cooper Webb, but off to the side with Seth Rarick and Mike Brown, who typically work with the 250F riders from KTM and Husqvarna. Wilson explained his decision via the news below.

“What’s up guys. So a bit of news. I start back riding on Monday. I also will start my training with @BakersFactory! I have never had the opportunity to work with Aldon. I know I don’t have a lot of years left in racing and I feel I would regret not taking this opportunity after it’s all said and done. Although I won’t be on the “full” program I will be in good hands with @Seth_Rarick & @BrownieMX with @Aldon104 overlooking my program. Looking forward to the new season.”

Wilson has already secured a one-year deal with Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing for the 2021 season. Wilson missed the final portion of 2020 Lucas Oil Pro Motocross to have surgery on the torn meniscus in his knee, but has now fully recovered.

Words: Lewis Phillips | Lead Image: Husqvarna Motorcycles

Is Chad Reed Really Done?

Guest appearances in 2021 increasingly unlikely for ‘done’ Reed

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Section: Competition Post: Alex Gobert

Desire isn't there for former Supercross champion to compete again.

Retired Australian icon Chad Reed has conceded that it’s becoming increasingly unlikely that he will make any one-off guest appearances in Monster Energy Supercross during 2021, stating that he doesn’t have any desire to race at this point.

Reed, 38, formally completed his final full-time season with a top 10 result at Salt Lake City 7 in June, but didn’t rule out the chances of him returning for one-off races next year while in Utah.

However, that stance continues to fade as the Reed family embarks on a series of BMX events with their three young children learning their craft with immediately encouraging results. That’s where Reed’s focus lies less than three months out from Houston’s opening round on 16 January and during recent months he’s not even considered a return.

The 2021 Monster Energy Supercross series will be held with just 20 to 25 percent spectator capacities unless COVID-19 restrictions ease dramatically, with limited locations and strict protocols still to be in effect in order for the championship to be held across 17 rounds. That isn’t an attractive

“I think I’m done,” Reed told MotoOnline.com.au. “Very little in me wants to race next year. I haven’t honestly given it any thought, just been wide-open being a BMX dad. I just don’t have any desire to race with all the restrictions the world has going on right now – it sucks the fun out of it for me.”

It’s been a remarkable career for Reed at the professional level for over two decades, the two-time 450SX champion defying the odds to remain competitive into his late 30s and continually reinvent himself among multiple generations of riders at the very top level of the sport.

Slow Down to Go Fast

Breaking Down The Motocross Braking Technique

by Cory Weinberg

 

Braking is one of the trickiest, but most essential techniques to master before you hit a Motocross track. Riding a dirt bike without understanding the method of braking can initiate a series of unintended landings that can make your chances of sustaining injuries very high. 

Though a little technical, learning to apply brakes with the right technique is easy. In this article, we will decode the right braking technique. Take a look. 

The Ideal Braking Technique Decoded

Balancing front and rear brakes are key to stopping the bike without getting thrown off. But, most of the riders don’t know the right technique. 

Here is how you should ideally apply brakes:

• Select the line that you will use to corner and stand on the bike in the central standing position. Make sure you push your weight towards the rear. 
• Grip the bike in between your knees to keep yourself from moving to the front of the bike or bouncing off the footpegs. 
• Downshift to slow down. Now, use both the brakes simultaneously. Try to be as gentle and smooth as possible while applying the brakes. Due to the forward momentum, the primary work will be done by the front brakes.
• Make sure you don’t lock up the wheels (most importantly front wheels). Release the front brake a little to get the wheel rolling.

Essential Braking Tips

Now that you are aware of the right braking technique, take a look at some handy braking tips: 

• Keep yourself from braking early 

If you are racing, make sure you don’t brake too early. Braking early will only eat up your time. The ideal timing is to get into the corner and go deep before you start braking. 

• Realize the power of the front brakes 

Front brakes are more robust than rear brakes. When you stop your bike, 70% of the task is done by the front brakes. While using them, make sure you press them firmly. 

Generally, you should apply both the brakes simultaneously, but if you want to stop suddenly, using only the front brakes will allow you to do so. Although, beware that the sudden jolt of stopping can cause you to get thrown off the bike.  

• Use rear brakes for directional control 

Rear brakes are used for directional control. Make sure you run the rear brake pedal as low as possible. Do this by keeping your foot on the pedal to avoid moving it much while applying the rear brake. This technique comes to your rescue when you want to brake quickly. Running low provides you better control and longer reaction time. 

Use this technique while riding on tight trails. However, do not use this braking technique for downhill sections. 

• Use the engine brake too 

Engine braking involves moving from a higher gear to a lower one to slow down the bike gradually without using front or rear brakes. Engine braking allows a progressive slowdown of the machine. 

• Extra tip: braking and safety

Even if you are an expert rider, falls and crashes are a common occurrence in Motocross. Even with a skilled hand at braking techniques, crashes happen. So, your safety while riding never stops being a priority.

To ensure your safety, wear suitable Motocross gear: DOT-approved helmet, gloves, jersey, pants, goggles, knee guard, and elbow guards to minimize the impact of falls and prevent sustaining injuries. Several online stores, like the MXstore, have a vast selection of Motocross gears that you can choose from. 

The bottom line 

Having a firm understanding of the braking technique is an important part of your riding capabilities, and so you should pay a lot of attention to it. Moreover, the lack of practice or control in this respect leads to falls and subsequent injuries. Therefore, make these techniques your second nature and practice them thoroughly before you hit the tracks. 

Romaniacs

Red Bull Romaniacs 2020 | Hard Enduro Rallye | Offroad Day 2 Highlights

Trentino - No Crowds

MXGP

 

MXGP is set to begin the triple-header in Pietramurata, this weekend, as we head into the final three rounds of the 2020 FIM Motocross World Championship.

The MXGP of Trentino was originally scheduled to take place on the 4-5^th of April, though due to the coronavirus pandemic the event was postponed to a later stage, and then became one of the special Italian triple-headers for this season.

Infront Moto Racing has been in close cooperation with the local authorities and the event organiser MOTOCLUBARCO ALTOGARDA OFFROAD, though despite all efforts from both parties and with all the latest regulations on the Italian decree, which will see many restrictions in Italy, the possibility of welcoming fans to the circuit will not be possible during the three GP’s in Pietramurata and the event will run behind closed doors.

Though fans will still be able to watch all the action unfold during the last Italian triple-header from the comfort of their homes with MXGP-TV.com, which will air all the races LIVE, including the EMX, WMX, MX2 and MXGP races as we gear up to find out who will it be that becomes the 2020 European and World Champions!

Anyone who purchased tickets for the upcoming Grand Prix races in Pietramurata will receive more information about the reimbursement of their tickets soon.

The MXGP of Trentino has been part of the MXGP Calendar for many years and every season produces some of the best race action. In 2019, we were all treated to one of the most intense and most talked about races of the year as Antonio Cairoli and Tim Gajser went head-to-head in the races for the overall victory. And this season will be no different as the pair will battle it out once again, but this time with much higher stakes, the MXGP title, as 74 points separate the two championship rivals as we reach the grand finale of the 2020 Motocross World Championship season. 

Malcolm Stewart to Yamaha

Posted on October 29, 2020

 

Monster Energy Star Yamaha Racing is pleased to announce the addition of Malcolm Stewart to their 450 team for the 2021 Monster Energy AMA Supercross season. The 2016 250SX East Champion will line up alongside the 2018 250SX West Champion, Aaron Plessinger, and the back-to-back 250SX West Champion, Dylan Ferrandis, for a three-pronged threat in the highly competitive premier class.

Stewart is fresh off his best season in the 450 class. The Florida rider really started hitting his stride in the seven-race run in Salt Lake City, finishing fourth at the season finale to end the year seventh in the standings. Stewart looks to build on that momentum next season with the Monster Energy Star Yamaha Racing team.

Jeremy Coker - Monster Energy Star Yamaha Racing 450 Team Manager: "Adding Malcolm to our already great line up excites me that much more for this upcoming season. He is an amazing rider, especially when it comes to the whoops. I can't wait to see him on the track."

Malcolm Stewart - Monster Energy Star Yamaha Racing: “I’m really excited to join the team. I know a lot of the guys from when I was around the team back in 2011. Gareth Swanepoel is my trainer and he works with their guys, plus I have a few buddies there. So, it isn’t a big change for me. It just kind of adds another piece to the puzzle. I’m definitely happy. The team has had a lot of success and has dominated the 250 class. They have a phenomenal setup and to be a part of their first year in the 450 class, it makes it more exciting for all of us. I feel like we have some good heavy hitters. Myself, Dylan Ferrandis, and Aaron Plessinger, every single one of us has won a 250 title. It should be a really good year. It’s only Supercross right now, but hopefully it goes well, and we can turn it into something in the future.”