Supercross – Dirt Bikes

Chase Sexton Completes Honda’s Historic 2023 AMA Supercross Title Sweep

Dirtbikes.com Staff — Fri, 19 May 2023 10:50:28 +0000

The 2023 AMA Supercross season came to an exhilarating conclusion at Salt Lake City’s Rice-Eccles Stadium, as Team Honda HRC left an indelible mark on the sport. The team’s dominant performance led to an unprecedented achievement—an incredible Honda title sweep across all three divisions. Chase Sexton claimed the premier-class championship, while Jett Lawrence emerged victorious in the 250SX East-West Showdown. Additionally, Colt Nichols was honored with the AMA 450SX Rookie of the Year Award. Let’s dive into the thrilling details of this historic season and Honda’s remarkable success.

Sexton’s Triumph in the 450SX Main Event: Chase Sexton, the Illinois native and rising star, displayed unmatched prowess throughout the season. In the 450SX main event, he seized the lead from the start and commanded the race, leading all 25 laps aboard his CRF450RWE. With an astonishing 18-second lead at the finish line, Sexton celebrated a well-deserved victory, clinching the premier-class championship for Honda.

Jett Lawrence’s 250SX East-West Showdown Victory: In the 250SX main event, Jett Lawrence showcased his exceptional skills, finishing second in turn one. Meanwhile, his teammate and 250SX East champion, Hunter Lawrence, faced a challenging start, relegating him to 13th place. Jett made a remarkable pass on RJ Hampshire to claim the lead at the eight-lap mark, securing victory for Honda in the 250SX East-West Showdown. Hunter Lawrence fought valiantly, making his way up to a respectable sixth-place finish.

Colt Nichols Earns Rookie of the Year Award: Despite a setback due to leg injuries, Colt Nichols, a standout rider for Team Honda HRC, was awarded the AMA Supercross Rookie of the Year. Although he couldn’t participate in the Salt Lake City round, his contributions throughout the season were commendable. The team expressed their appreciation for his dedication and wished him the best in his future endeavors.

Honda’s Dominance:

Team Honda HRC’s accomplishments were not limited to individual victories. Honda earned its third consecutive Manufacturers Championship, demonstrating the brand’s unparalleled excellence and commitment to the sport. The remarkable feat of sweeping all three AMA Supercross titles had never been achieved by a single team before, solidifying Honda’s position as a powerhouse in the motocross world.

Impressive Performances and Noteworthy Moments:

Salt Lake City was packed with remarkable performances and memorable moments. Sexton’s dominance was evident with his fastest lap time in the 450SX main event. Jett Lawrence’s victory secured Honda’s position as the winningest manufacturer in the support class at Salt Lake City. The event also marked Jett’s last 250 race, as he gears up for the upcoming outdoor season.

Team Honda HRC’s Future:

The team’s success in the AMA Supercross Championship serves as a launchpad for the upcoming AMA Pro Motocross Championship. With the rare luxury of a weekend off, Team Honda HRC will prepare to conquer new challenges in Pala, California, starting on May 27.

Closing Thoughts: The 2023 AMA Supercross season will be etched in history as Honda’s triumphant year. Team Honda HRC’s remarkable achievement of winning all three championships, including the premier-class title by Chase Sexton, showcases their unwavering dedication and unparalleled talent. As the motocross community looks forward to the upcoming outdoor season, the dominance of Team Honda HRC and their exceptional riders, including Jett Lawrence and Hunter Lawrence, promises an exciting future filled with fierce battles and remarkable achievements.

The post Chase Sexton Completes Honda’s Historic 2023 AMA Supercross Title Sweep appeared first on Dirt Bikes.

Red Bull Straight Rhythm Is Back, And It’s All Two-Strokes

Brent Jaswinski — Fri, 15 Jun 2018 23:13:00 +0000

The unique Red Bull Straight Rhythm event is back again this year for its fifth installment, but this time, it’s all about the two-strokes – yeahhh baby. There won’t be any four-strokes lining up, but you will see some electric Altas – kind of like a past meets future type of shindig, which is pretty awesome when it comes to motorcycles. Girlfriends, not so much.

When the two-stroke class was introduced last year, it was all anyone could talk about, and there was a shitstorm of trash talking that ensued back-and-forth amongst the riders prior to the event, fueled by none other than Ronnie Mac. Of course, it was all in good fun, and no feelings were actually hurt – motocross racers are some of the toughest athletes in the world, after all – but it was pretty hilarious nonetheless and added an extra element of excitement. It’s racing; you have to try and ruffle your competitor’s feathers somehow, and why not give the crowd something to cheer for, right? The two-stroke races were by far the most anticipated of the night.

Ronnie Mac, the ultimate goon rider, in all his glory. Look him up on YouTube if you don’t already know who he is. Or click here.

Well, this year Red Bull is going all in and we can expect some big-timers to show up with their old two-smokers, as well as many of the current 250/450 guys. Last year Ryan Villopoto lined up on his KX250, and Travis Pastrana on his RM-Zilla 500 the year before. We might see some other motocross legends like Ricky Carmichael, Jeremy McGrath or even Kevin Windham dusting off and getting reacquainted with their old steeds to see if they still have what it takes to run with the young guns. Who knows?

It’s been pretty cool to see the resurgence in popularity of two-stroke motocross racing, and two-strokes in general. There’s definitely a sense of nostalgia that comes with it, plus they’re cheaper to own and maintain. The 125 All Star Series was added as an additional class for six of 12 rounds of the Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship due to the growing interest and popularity in 125cc two-strokes. 125s have an interesting powerband; like a light switch really, it’s all or nothing, so racing them means you’re holding it wide open the entire time. And brakes? Who needs ‘em. Gas is on the right.

This year’s Red Bull Straight Rhythm is October 20th in Pomona, California. Check out last year’s full race below, and Red Bull’s announcement for this year’s event further down.

Red Bull:

Santa Monica, Calif. (June 14, 2018) – Four piston strokes. Electronic Fuel Injection. Slim headers without an expansion chamber. Sleek, non-clunky, space-age plastics. This is a list of things you won’t see at the 2018 Red Bull Straight Rhythm. And when the event returns to Fairplex in Pomona on October 20, you’ll hear it coming. From, like, miles away. Because there will be only two-strokes racing. Ring-a-ding-ding. That’s right, the event will step back in time to an era where gear sets were mostly pink, Fresno was smooth and a nac nac was totally rad (kind of still is). Riders will leave their fancy factory four-strokes at home and will run what they brung as they tackle the ½-mile-long straight rhythm track on nothing but two-smoke power.

After the two-stroke class was introduced at the event last year, nostalgia took full effect, and everyone cared about little else. While most of the action took place on the track, it also got pretty heated online, as riders like Ryan Villopoto, Chad Reed and Ronnie Mac talked serious trash to each other long before lining up to race. This year all the fat has been cut, and there will be half as many piston strokes but twice as much fun. The race will consist of two classes – 250cc+, and 150cc & under. And, yes, it is all two strokes…well, with one exception. Those mad scientists at Alta Motors will be allowed to run electric in the 250cc+ class. Think of it as a “return to the past, but keep an eye on the future” philosophy. But mostly two-strokes. Lots of two-strokes. Like, 96.2 percent two-strokes. Maybe check that math.

Despite the bike changes, the concept remains the same. Line up side by side and race head-to-head down a ½ mile of rollers, whoops, doubles, tables and all other kinds of rhythmic insanity. Racing is a best-of-three format, so each rider gets at least two chances to grab victory. This also helps to cut down on all the crying about bad starts at the after party. In its fifth year, the event will continue the format where practice, qualifying and racing will all take place on the same day, with the finals taking place at night under the lights.

Red Bull Straight Rhythm debuted in 2014 at the Auto Club Raceway at Fairplex in Pomona, and saw James Stewart win in the Open Class, with Marvin Musquin taking home the top spot in the Lites Class. In 2015, James Stewart defended his title, once again landing on the top of the podium in the Open Class, with his brother Malcolm taking first place in the Lites Class. In 2016, Marvin Musquin returned to the event and dominated the Open Class, with Shane McElrath taking the win in the Lites Class. Last year’s event introduced the two-stroke class, and saw Gared “Stank Dawg” Steinke win in the class, with Marvin Musquin winning the Open Class and Shane McElrath taking the win in the Lites Class. Tickets for the event are on sale now with “Holeshot” special pricing available only until July 13. Each single-day ticket gives access to practice, qualifying and the finals. With over 10,000 grandstand seats – plus an infield – spectators will be treated to a one-of-a-kind experience while watching an all-out sprint to the finish line. For those that need a break from the action, spectators will also have access to the race pits, numerous concessions and side acts throughout the day, offering something for the whole family. Tickets can be purchased at redbull.com/straightrhythm.

The post Red Bull Straight Rhythm Is Back, And It’s All Two-Strokes appeared first on Dirt Bikes.

New Era of Monster Energy Supercross Ushers in Record-Setting Growth in 2018

Brent Jaswinski — Mon, 14 May 2018 16:18:24 +0000

ELLENTON, FL – Upon crowning three new champions at an electrifying 2018 season finale in Las Vegas on May 5, Monster Energy AMA Supercross, an FIM World Championship, experienced a record-setting season of spectacular, edge-of-your seat racing that resulted in impressive growth across live attendance, television viewership, digital engagement and international fandom for the most competitive and highest-profile off-road motorcycle racing championship in the world.

Jason Anderson captured his first-career 450SX Class Championship at the final round of the 2018 Monster Energy Supercross season in Las Vegas on May 5. | Photo credit: Feld Entertainment, Inc.

Following the retirement of four-time 450SX Class champion, Ryan Dungey, in 2017, the 2018 Monster Energy Supercross season opened the door for a potential first-time premier-class champion to emerge. At the first round in Anaheim, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Marvin Musquin, fresh off winning $1 million at the Monster Energy Cup in October 2017, landed his first win of the season and was off to an early point lead until an injury forced him to sit out at Round 2, where the chances for a championship from Rockstar Energy Husqvarna’s Jason Anderson took off. Anderson captured his first of four wins at Round 2 and was the one to watch as he only finished outside of the top five twice in 17 races.

Meanwhile, one of the sport’s most buzzed about athletes, Ken Roczen, became who fans envisioned to end up a first-time champion after making the greatest comeback in Supercross history, until his season-ending mix-up at Round 6. One of the league’s other biggest stars, Eli Tomac, racked up nearly twice as many wins, compared to any other athlete, through 17 races and also became the first-ever Monster Energy Supercross Triple Crown Champion. However, he was equally lauded by misfortune and tension on the track that took its eventual toll on his championship run.

The 2018 season would come down to the finale in Las Vegas for the 450SX Class and both regions of the 250SX Class and resulted in the most action-packed, must-watch moments in the sport’s recent history, and it didn’t take long for fans to catch on. This year achieved increases in live attendance, entertaining nearly 1 million fans with sellouts recorded at Anaheim 1 and 2 and a record-setting 60,000 fans at Atlanta’s brand-new Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Premium on-track seating aimed at attracting celebrities and fans craving unique experiences will continue to be expanded from four races to all 17 races and the Monster Energy Cup for the 2019 season.

Television viewership also increased five percent year-over-year, including a 27 percent rise among the coveted male 18-34 demographic and its best performance since FS1 launched. The Salt Lake City race on Saturday, April 28 counted 836,000 viewers, the most in Supercross history on FOX. Streaming on the FOX Sports GO app increased 68 percent year-over-year, while Race Day LIVE viewership grew by 700,000 viewers.

As Monster Energy Supercross continues to celebrate major milestones, the unveiling of Supercross Futures, an AMA Amateur National Championship, will transition AMSOIL Arenacross into the new Supercross Futures amateur events as we continue to improve the overall quality of Supercross. Building upon the success of 2018’s four Supercross Amateur Racing events, which averaged over 700 entries, the ground-breaking Supercross Futures concept will introduce eight amateur racing events in 2019 and provide greater access to the sport’s largest stage to further hone their skills on full-size Supercross tracks, while also allowing top amateur athletes to earn Road to Supercross points toward their professional AMA Supercross license.

“This season’s legendary battles on the track led to record growth across the board for Monster Energy Supercross,” noted Nicole Feld, Executive Vice President, Feld Entertainment, Inc. “From live attendance growth to our largest television audience in 2018, we look forward to driving even greater momentum in 2019 with our partners and athletes by producing an even better, even more competitive stadium racing landscape.”

The first edition of Monster Energy Supercross, the official video game achieved rapid growth with 2.5 million interactions per week since its February 2018 launch. Digitally, the @SupercrossLIVE Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Snapchat social platforms added over 1 million new followers since January 2017. In its second year, the Supercross Video Pass aired in 134 countries around the globe, further expanding Supercross’ international audience, which encompasses more than half of the sports’ fanbase.

In terms of industry firsts for the brand, Monster Energy Supercross brought the Supercross community together with the “This Shirt Saves Lives” movement that raised a record $100,000 to date benefitting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Additionally, Monster Energy Supercross garnered more mainstream press this season than any other in the sport’s history, with coverage from national outlets like ESPN, Forbes and E! News. The Rob Gronkowski press conference in Foxborough was the largest activation in Supercross history and earned over 1 billion media impressions spanning every major sports and news outlet.

Tickets are currently on sale for the 2018 Monster Energy Cup. The full 2019 Monster Energy Supercross and Supercross Futures schedule will be announced on Tuesday, June 12, and 2019 tickets will be on-sale on Tuesday, October 16 with a pre-sale date of Monday, October 8. For more information on Monster Energy AMA Supercross, an FIM World Championship, log on to SupercrossLIVE.com, the official website of Monster Energy Supercross, or follow via social channels:

Facebook: facebook.com/supercrosslive
Twitter: twitter.com/supercrosslive
Instagram: instagram.com/supercrosslive
YouTube: youtube.com/supercrosslive

The post New Era of Monster Energy Supercross Ushers in Record-Setting Growth in 2018 appeared first on Dirt Bikes.

Broc Tickle Issues Statement Addressing His Provisional Suspension

Brent Jaswinski — Tue, 01 May 2018 20:39:13 +0000

Tickle’s statement:

As has been widely reported, on April 12, 2018 I was notified by the FIM of an alleged Adverse Analytical Finding for 5-Methylhexan-2-Amine, stemming from a random urine test on February 10, 2018, directly after the San Diego Supercross Event. The notification from the FIM was a complete surprise to me because I have never, intentionally or negligently, ingested any prohibited substance, and specifically, the alleged substance I allegedly had in my system on February 10, 2018. I have never cheated, doped, or tried to better myself by taking the short way; nor, has anyone around me offered or provided to me any substance that is prohibited by the FIM Anti-Doping Code. I have worked too hard throughout my career to put my career at stake by taking any prohibited substance.

I am devastated about this allegation, and really frustrated with the process. The FIM has been less than professional with me regarding timeliness of communication, disclosure of information related to my Sample A test, and request to Test Sample B. After much delay, the FIM finally has informed me that the soonest that my Sample B will be tested is May 16, 2018*, the receipt of results and supporting lab documentation undisclosed. In addition, the soonest I will receive the lab documentation associated with Sample A is 10-15 working days from April 15th, 2018.

At this point, I have filed a Request to Lift the Discretionary Provisional Suspension imposed, but have little faith in this process as it is based solely on written documentation. The soonest that I will have a full blown hearing regarding this allegation will be months from now. I have discovered that the FIM is an organization that possesses ultimate power — to suspend a professional athlete with the stroke of a pen, without any process, opportunity to defend, and no supporting evidence. Consequently, the FIM eliminates the athlete’s source of income, and consequently their financial wherewithal to defend themselves with what little information is provided, all while refusing to timely communicate, and disclose evidence. To say that the process is unfair is an understatement.

Despite this disproportionality, I will do everything possible to fight this allegation, clear my name, and continue with my career. Should anyone have any information that may be relevant to my case, please contact my attorney, Brian D. Harrison at harrison@harrisonlegal.net. Thank you.

*Interestingly, shortly after filing of my Request to Lift the Provisional Suspension, the FIM advised me that they contacted the Laboratory to change the date for Sample B testing to May 9, 2018; however, no information was conveyed as to date of receipt of such test, or the lab documentation associated therewith.

The original FIM statement announcing Tickle’s suspension:

The Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM) has advised US Supercross rider Broc Tickle that he is provisionally suspended pursuant to Article 7.9 of the FIM Anti-doping Code. The decision to provisionally suspend Mr. Tickle was taken following the receipt of a report from the WADA accredited laboratory in Cologne indicating an Adverse Analytical Finding of 5-methylhexan-2-amine, a specified substance under Section 6 (Stimulants) of the 2018 FIM Prohibited List, in a urine sample collected from him at an in-competition test carried out by the FIM at the round of the Monster Energy AMA Supercross, an FIM World Championship held in San Diego, California, USA, on 10 February 2018.

Mr. Tickle has the right to request and attend the analysis of his B sample.

Mr. Broc Tickle is provisionally suspended with effect from 14 April 2018. He is therefore barred from participating in any Sports competition until further notice (Art. 10.12 of the FIM Anti-doping Code). Under Article 7.9.3.2 of the FIM Anti-doping Code, Mr. Tickle may request lifting of his provisional suspension.

Under the World Anti-Doping Code and the FIM Anti-Doping Code, the FIM is unable to provide any additional information at this time.

The post Broc Tickle Issues Statement Addressing His Provisional Suspension appeared first on Dirt Bikes.

Jason Anderson’s Supercross Championship Points Lead is Slipping Away…

Brent Jaswinski — Mon, 30 Apr 2018 17:04:58 +0000

SALT LAKE CITY, UT – April 29, 2018 – Monster Energy AMA Supercross, an FIM World Championship, made its return to “The State of Sport” in front of 43,849 fans at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City.

Marvin Musquin celebrates his fourth 450SX Class win after leading 23 of the 26-Lap Main Event in Salt Lake City. Photo credit: Feld Entertainment, Inc.

In the 450SX Class Main Event, the Rocky Mountain ATV/MC WPS KTM of Blake Baggett grabbed the holeshot ahead of Team Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Marvin Musquin and Team Honda HRC’s Christian Craig, while points leader Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s Jason Anderson got caught up in a first turn crash that sent him to the mechanics area for a tire change. As Monster Energy Kawasaki Racing’s Eli Tomac battled from a 10th place start, Musquin made the pass on Baggett for the lead after three laps. Tomac found his groove and worked up to second over Baggett by the checkers while Anderson finished 17th after going two laps down and holds a 14-point lead over Musquin heading into the season finale in Las Vegas.

“Sometimes it’s not the fastest guy that wins the race,” Musquin said after the finish. “You’ve got to be very consistent. The whoops are really, really tough and you know I was just trying to be safe and get it done. I was happy to win here. It’s definitely not a track that suits me. It’s hard and slippery, but the bike was working good. It was a tough day for me, but that made me stronger.”

Shane McElrath captured his second Western Regional 250SX Class win in Salt Lake City after a third-place start to lead 11 of the 19-Lap Main Event. Photo credit: Feld Entertainment, Inc.

In the penultimate round of the Western Regional 250SX Class Championship, Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki’s Joey Savatgy grabbed the holeshot while Monster Energy/Yamalube/Star/Yamaha Racing’s Aaron Plessinger battled into second after the start with Troy Lee Designs Red Bull KTM’s Shane McElrath in third. Savatgy lead eight laps until McElrath charged from third to first through the whoops while Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki’s Adam Cianciarulo found second over Savatgy, Plessinger and Sexton rounded out the top five, and McElrath led 11 laps to the checkered flag. Plessinger holds a 13-point lead heading into the season finale at the Dave Coombs Sr. 250SX East-West Showdown in Las Vegas.

“It feels good to do it in front of Utah today,” McElrath said on the podium. “Man, God is good. We got a beautiful day today.”

450SX Class Results

Marvin Musquin, Clermont, Fla., KTM
Eli Tomac, Cortez, Colo., Kawasaki
Blake Baggett, Grand Terrance, Calif., KTM
Christian Craig, Orange, Calif., Honda
Justin Barcia, Greenville, Fla., Yamaha
Justin Brayton, Mint Hill, N.C., Honda
Weston Peick, Menifee, Calif., Suzuki
Benny Bloss, Oak Grove, Mo., KTM
Vince Friese, Cape Girardeau, Honda
Tyler Bowers, Lake Elsinore, Calif., Kawasaki

450SX Class Championship Standings

Jason Anderson, Rio Rancho, N.M., Husqvarna (338)
Marvin Musquin, Clermont, Fla., KTM (324)
Eli Tomac, Cortez, Colo., Kawasaki (292)
Justin Brayton, Mint Hill, N.C., Honda (264)
Blake Baggett, Grand Terrance, Calif., KTM (264)
Weston Peick, Menifee, Calif., Suzuki (235)
Dean Wilson, Clermont, Fla., Husqvarna (193)
Broc Tickle, Holly, Mich., KTM (184)
Cooper Webb, Newport, N.C., Yamaha (181)
Justin Barcia, Greenville, Fla., Yamaha (163)

Western Regional 250SX Class Results

Shane McElrath, Canton, N.C., KTM
Adam Cianciarulo, New Smyrna Beach, Fla., Kawasaki
Joey Savatgy, Thomasville, Ga., Kawasaki
Aaron Plessinger, Hamilton, Ohio, Yamaha
Chase Sexton, Clermont, Fla., Honda
Phillip Nicoletti, Bethel, N.Y., Suzuki
Dakota Alix, Jay. Vt., KTM
Mitchell Harrison, Tallahassee, Fla., Husqvarna
Kyle Chisholm, Valrico, Fla., Yamaha
Martin Castelo, Murrieta, Calif., Yamaha

Western Regional 250SX Class Championship Standings

Aaron Plessinger, Hamilton, Ohio, Yamaha (196)
Adam Cianciarulo, New Smyrna Beach, Fla., Kawasaki (183)
Joey Savatgy, Thomasville, Ga., Kawasaki (174)
Shane McElrath, Canton, N.C., KTM (172)
Chase Sexton, Clermont, Fla., Honda (150)
Justin Hill, Yoncalla, Ore., Suzuki (128)
Kyle Chisholm, Valrico, Fla., Yamaha (124)
Mitchell Harrison, Tallahassee, Fla., Husqvarna (115)
Christian Craig, Orange, Calif. Honda (106)
Phillip Nicoletti, Bethel, N.Y., Suzuki (94)

The 2018 Monster Energy Supercross season concludes in Las Vegas with the finale on May 5 at Sam Boyd Stadium. Watch the action live on FS1 at 10 p.m. ET.

For more information on the Monster Energy AMA Supercross, an FIM World Championship, please log on to SupercrossLIVE.com, the official website of Monster Energy Supercross, or follow via social channels:

Facebook: facebook.com/supercrosslive
Twitter: twitter.com/supercrosslive
Instagram: instagram.com/supercrosslive
YouTube: youtube.com/supercrosslive

The post Jason Anderson’s Supercross Championship Points Lead is Slipping Away… appeared first on Dirt Bikes.

Marvin Musquin Charges To a Dramatic 3rd Monster Energy Supercross Win in Foxborough

Brent Jaswinski — Mon, 23 Apr 2018 17:23:59 +0000

FOXBOROUGH, MA – April 21, 2018 – Monster Energy AMA Supercross, an FIM World Championship, returned to Gillette Stadium after a two-year hiatus for Round 15 in front of 38,404 fans.

Team Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Marvin Musquin dominated the first 22 laps of the Main Event until Monster Energy Kawasaki Racing’s Eli Tomac made his move and found the lead before the white flag. Musquin returned on the last lap with a race-winning pass to take the overall victory.

“That’s for the win. I was leading the whole Main Event,” Musquin said on the podium. “It was a great race. The lappers were tough to get around, and the track was really, really difficult … It’s for a 450 AMA Supercross Main Event win, so I tried my best, and that’s the way it is. My riding was really good today, so I’m happy about that.”

Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s Jason Anderson rounded out the podium after a third-place start and holds a 34-point lead heading into the second-to-last race of the season in Salt Lake City.

Marvin Musquin notched his third 450SX Class win of the season in Foxborough leading 22 of the 23-Lap Main Event. Photo credit: Feld Entertainment, Inc.

In the penultimate round of the Eastern Regional 250SX Class Championship, Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s Zach Osborne earned his seventh-career victory and first lead-from-the-start Main Event win of the season ahead of Troy Lee Designs/Red Bull/KTM’s Jordon Smith and Autotrader/Yoshimura/Suzuki Factory Racing’s Kyle Peters, who earned his first podium since 2013 with a third-place finish. GEICO Honda’s Jeremy Martin battled from a dead-last start and hammered his way up to fourth place after the 17-Lap Main Event. Osborne holds a 15-point lead heading into the Dave Coombs Sr. East-West Showdown at the season finale in Las Vegas.

“I’ve worked really hard to find some consistency in the way I do my starts,” Osborne said on the podium. “I broke it down to a very, very basic level with some help from my team and my trainer and also even my father-in-law. It’s been a huge help for me, so to come out tonight and get two holeshots and win a Main Event feels great. It’s a beautiful day here in Foxborough.”

Zach Osborne dominated his third Eastern Regional 250SX Class win in Foxborough by leading from the start. Photo credit: Feld Entertainment, Inc.

Earlier in the day, five-time Monster Energy Supercross Champion Ricky Carmichael appeared alongside New England Patriots star and five-time Super Bowl Champion Rob Gronkowski in a media event where Gronkowski addressed rumors around his future at Gillette Stadium and announced his debut for Monster Energy Supercross.

New England Patriots star Rob Gronkowski joined five-time Monster Energy Supercross Champion Ricky Carmichael in a media event at Gillette Stadium on April 21. Photo credit: GuyB

For official race results, please visit results.amasupercross.com.

450SX Class Results

Marvin Musquin, Clermont, Fla., KTM
Eli Tomac, Cortez, Colo., Kawasaki
Jason Anderson, Rio Rancho, N.M., Husqvarna
Blake Baggett, Grand Terrance, Calif., KTM
Dean Wilson, Clermont, Fla., Husqvarna
Weston Peick, Menifee, Calif., Suzuki
Malcolm Stewart, Haines City, Fla., Suzuki
Justin Brayton, Mint Hill, N.C., Honda
Justin Barcia, Greenville, Fla., Yamaha
Chad Reed, Dade City, Fla., Husqvarna

450SX Class Championship Standings

Jason Anderson, Rio Rancho, N.M., Husqvarna (332)
Marvin Musquin, Clermont, Fla., KTM (298)
Eli Tomac, Cortez, Colo., Kawasaki (269)
Justin Brayton, Mint Hill, N.C., Honda (247)
Blake Baggett, Grand Terrance, Calif., KTM (243)
Weston Peick, Menifee, Calif., Suzuki (219)
Broc Tickle, Holly, Mich., KTM (184)
Dean Wilson, Clermont, Fla., Husqvarna (183)
Cooper Webb, Newport, N.C., Yamaha (181)
Malcolm Stewart, Haines City, Fla., Suzuki (150)

Eastern Regional 250SX Class Results

Zach Osborne, Abingdon, Va., Husqvarna
Jordon Smith, Belmont, N.C., KTM
Kyle Peters, Greensboro, N.C., Suzuki
Jeremy Martin, Millville, Minn., Honda
Sean Cantrell, Murrieta, Calif., KTM
Joshua Osby, Valparaiso, Ind., KTM
Brandon Hartranft, Brick, N.J., Yamaha
Anthony Rodriguez, Cairo, Ga., KTM
Luke Renzland, Hewitt, N.J., Yamaha
Thomas Ramette, Guilherand, France, Yamaha

Eastern Regional 250SX Class Championship Standings

Zach Osborne, Abingdon, Va., Husqvarna (180)
Jordon Smith, Belmont, N.C., KTM (165)
Jeremy Martin, Millville, Minn., Honda (157)
Austin Forkner, Richards, Mo., Kawasaki (137)
Luke Renzland, Hewitt, N.J., Yamaha (109)
Kyle Peters, Greensboro, N.C., Suzuki (107)
Sean Cantrell, Murrieta, Calif., KTM, (96)
Brandon Hartranft, Brick, N.J., Yamaha (89)
Anthony Rodriguez, Cairo, Ga., KTM (72)
John Short, Pilot Point, Texas, Yamaha (58)

The 2018 Monster Energy Supercross season continues in Salt Lake City with the penultimate Round 16 on April 28 at The University of Utah’s Rice-Eccles Stadium. Watch the action live on FOX at 5:30 p.m. ET.

Facebook: facebook.com/supercrosslive
Twitter: twitter.com/supercrosslive
Instagram: instagram.com/supercrosslive
YouTube: youtube.com/supercrosslive

The post Marvin Musquin Charges To a Dramatic 3rd Monster Energy Supercross Win in Foxborough appeared first on Dirt Bikes.

Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing Extend Contact with Zach Osborne

Brent Jaswinski — Thu, 19 Apr 2018 18:45:44 +0000

April 18, 2018 – Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing are pleased to announce the extension of Zach Osborne’s contract through 2020. He has been successful and a true brand pioneer with his first, as well as Husqvarna Motorcycles’ first, 250SX East championship in the 2017 AMA Supercross season and again with the 250 class overall in the 2017 AMA Pro Motocross season. He will be contending both series through 2020 and be aboard the FC 450 in the near future.

Zach Osborne: “I’m very excited for the opportunity to continue this relationship with the Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing team. We’ve had good successes so far and I hope to continue that through 2020, in the 450 class, and beyond. It’s a great feeling to have the best equipment and team around you in a long term commitment, and I am lucky to have that!”

Bobby Hewitt (Team Manager): “Zach is a core team member and amazing rider to work with. We believe that Zach has what it takes to keep the Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing team on top and we couldn’t be happier to have him with us even longer.”

Diego Clement (Head of Motorsport, Husqvarna Motorcycles): “ We are very excited to continue working with Zach in the upcoming years! The past season was very successful and now we are working even harder at more championships. The work ethic of Zach is very impressive and the “never give up” attitude is appreciated by all team members and fans.”

The post Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing Extend Contact with Zach Osborne appeared first on Dirt Bikes.

Eli Tomac Secures 7th Supercross Win and Triple Crown Championship Victory in Minneapolis

Brent Jaswinski — Tue, 17 Apr 2018 16:05:13 +0000

MINNEAPOLIS, MN – April 15, 2018 – Monster Energy AMA Supercross, an FIM World Championship, returned to Minnesota’s U.S. Bank Stadium in front of a crowd of 49,846 fans for the third and final Triple Crown Event, a three-city showdown introduced in 2018 where both the 250SX and 450SX Classes compete in three Main Events.

The Monster Energy Kawasaki of Eli Tomac captured his seventh win of the season and overall 450SX Class victory, in addition to the first-ever Triple Crown Championship, which was awarded to Tomac who finished with the lowest overall Olympic-style score in the three-race series.

“We’re out here to win and that’s what we did,” Tomac said after the race. “We got it done tonight … It’s been a long, hard day and everyone worked their butt off when we got here. Just a great way to cap off the night.”

In the first Main Event, Tomac and Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s Jason Anderson went bar-to-bar after the start until Tomac found the outside line around Anderson and checked out ahead of Monster Energy/Yamaha Factory Racing’s Justin Barcia and SmarTops Bullfrog Spas Honda’s Justin Brayton, and Autotrader/Yoshimura/Suzuki Factory Racing’s Weston Peick muscled up to fifth.

Brayton lead the majority of the second Main Event ahead of Rocky Mountain ATV/MC/KTM/WPS Team’s Blake Baggett and Anderson after the start with Peick and Team Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Marvin Musquin battling inside the top five. Tomac worked his way up from a seventh-place start and a four-way wheel-to-wheel battle for third between Baggett, Peick, Musquin and Tomac put Peick into third while Anderson worked on Brayton until a mistake put Anderson back to sixth. Musquin made the moves on Peick for second and found another fast line around Brayton to take the top spot with Peick rounding out the top three.

In the third and final Main Event, Tomac and Brayton were side-by-side for the lead ahead of Anderson while Barcia worked his way up to fourth followed by Musquin. Anderson pulled away from a three-way battle for second with Musquin moving from fourth to second over Tomac. Barcia and Brayton rounded out the top five.

“Tonight was some of the gnarliest battling I’ve had to do all year,” Anderson said on the podium. “That’s what this Triple Crown brings; it brings that intense racing. I’m just pumped to get out of here with a solid finish. Those three intense races are gnarly.”

Tomac is joined by Jason Anderson and Marvin Musquin on the 450SX Class podium in Minneapolis at Round 14 of the 2018 season. | Photo credit: Feld Entertainment, Inc.

In the first Main Event for the Eastern Regional 250SX Class Championship, Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki’s Austin Forkner got out to an early lead ahead of Troy Lee Designs/Red Bull/KTM’s Jordon Smith and GEICO Honda’s Jeremy Martin and Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s Zach Osborne. Martin pressured Smith for second while Forkner lead from the start and captured the win.

In the second Main Event, Smith grabbed the holeshot while Osborne found his way to second after the first lap, and Martin rounded out the top three. Osborne worked to pass Smith and opened a gap to the finish.

In the third Main Event, Josh Osby caught the holeshot ahead of a battle between Smith and Osborne while Martin and Rocky Mountain ATV/MC/KTM/WPS Team’s Anthony Rodriguez diced it up behind the leader. Smith quickly moved into the lead followed by Martin, Osborne and Forkner before Martin made the move on Smith and captured the overall Triple Crown victory, his second consecutive Eastern Regional 250SX Class win.

“To do it in my hometown state in front of everyone, it’s a dream come true, and this is one of those I’ll cherish for the rest of my life. It’s a blessing I get to ride dirt bikes,” Martin said on the podium.

Jeremy Martin captured his second-consecutive Eastern Regional 250SX Class win and first Triple Crown victory in Minneapolis. | Photo credit: Feld Entertainment, Inc.

For official race results, please visit results.amasupercross.com.

450SX Class Results

Eli Tomac, Cortez, Colo., Kawasaki (1-4-3)
Jason Anderson, Rio Rancho, N.M., Husqvarna (2-6-1)
Marvin Musquin, Clermont, Fla., KTM (7-1-2)
Justin Brayton, Mint Hill, N.C., Honda (4-2-5)
Justin Barcia, Greenville, Fla., Yamaha (3-7-4)
Weston Peick, Menifee, Calif., Suzuki (5-3-11)
Tyler Bowers, Lake Elsinore, Calif., Kawasaki (8-8-6)
Blake Baggett, Grand Terrance, Calif., KTM (6-5-12)
Christian Craig, Orange, Calif., Honda (14-10-7)
Dean Wilson, Clermont, Fla., Husqvarna (9-9-13)

450SX Class Championship Standings

Jason Anderson, Rio Rancho, N.M., Husqvarna (311)
Marvin Musquin, Clermont, Fla., KTM (272)
Eli Tomac, Cortez, Colo., Kawasaki (246)
Justin Brayton, Mint Hill, N.C., Honda (232)
Blake Baggett, Grand Terrance, Calif., KTM (224)
Weston Peick, Menifee, Calif., Suzuki (202)
Broc Tickle, Holly, Mich., KTM (184)
Cooper Webb, Newport, N.C., Yamaha (181)
Dean Wilson, Clermont, Fla., Husqvarna (165)
Malcolm Stewart, Haines City, Fla., Suzuki (134)

Eastern Regional 250SX Class Results

Jeremy Martin, Millville, Minn., Honda (3-3-1)
Zach Osborne, Abingdon, Va., Husqvarna (4-1-2)
Jordon Smith, Belmont, N.C., KTM (2-2-3)
Sean Cantrell, Murrieta, Calif., KTM (5-4-5)
Anthony Rodriguez, Cairo, Ga., KTM (6-11-6)
Joshua Osby, Valparaiso, Ind., KTM (9-6-9)
Brandon Hartranft, Brick, N.J., Yamaha (16-5-4)
John Short, Pilot Point, Texas, Yamaha (11-8-8)
Thomas Ramette, Guilherand, France, Yamaha (8-15-7)
Austin Forkner, Richards, Mo., Kawasaki (1-10-19)

Eastern Regional 250SX Class Championship Standings

Zach Osborne, Abingdon, Va., Husqvarna (154)
Jordon Smith, Belmont, N.C., KTM (142)
Jeremy Martin, Millville, Minn., Honda (138)
Austin Forkner, Richards, Mo., Kawasaki (137)
Luke Renzland, Hewitt, N.J., Yamaha (95)
Kyle Peters, Greensboro, N.C., Suzuki (86)
Sean Cantrell, Murrieta, Calif., KTM, (78)
Brandon Hartranft, Brick, N.J., Yamaha (73)
RJ Hampshire, Wesley Chapel, Fla., Honda (57)
Athony Rodriguez, Cairo, Ga., KTM (57)

The 2018 Monster Energy Supercross season returns to Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts for Round 15 on April 21. Watch the action live on FOX at 3 p.m. ET.

Facebook: facebook.com/supercrosslive
Twitter: twitter.com/supercrosslive
Instagram: instagram.com/supercrosslive
YouTube: youtube.com/supercrosslive

The post Eli Tomac Secures 7th Supercross Win and Triple Crown Championship Victory in Minneapolis appeared first on Dirt Bikes.

Justin Barcia Returns to Racing Supercross This Saturday in Minneapolis

Brent Jaswinski — Thu, 12 Apr 2018 18:04:16 +0000

Cypress, Calif. – April 12, 2018 – The Monster Energy/Yamaha Factory Racing Team is excited to head into this Saturday’s Minneapolis SX with its complete two-rider roster as Justin Barcia makes his return to racing for Round 14 of the 2018 Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship at U.S. Bank Stadium. Cooper Webb looks to carry his momentum from a top-five finish at last week’s tough-mudder to focus his sights ahead on a race-win in Minnesota.

It’s been a week-by-week evaluation for Barcia’s recovery process but the Monster Energy/Yamaha Factory Racing Team is happy to report that Justin’s diligent therapy and rehabilitation has paid dividends and his hand has improved dramatically over the past week. As for Webb, he continues to display determination and tenacity week after week since his shoulder injury prior to Round 11 and he enters this weekend feeling as close to 100% as ever before.

Cooper Webb, 450SX #2 – Monster Energy/Yamaha Factory Racing Team Rider

“Seattle was a survival race! I’m glad that one is over but I really did have some fun out there and enjoyed it. I’m happy to walk out of there with a solid top-five and collect good points on a hectic night of racing. This week has been awesome here in North Carolina, my outdoor track is getting built and I’ve been switching things up a bit and plan on bringing some more intensity into Minneapolis!”

Justin Barcia, 450SX #51 – Monster Energy/Yamaha Factory Racing Team Rider

“I’m very excited to be back racing this weekend in Minneapolis! It’s been tough watching, so this makes it even more fun to be back at the races – kind of like Anaheim I for me. I’m looking forward to seeing how my speed is since the last time I was actually racing. I’ve been training hard both on and off my dirt bike and I definitely believe I have the speed and fitness to be up front.”

Meet the Yamaha bLU cRU Supercross Riders

Friday night, from 6-7 p.m., stop by Motoprimo at 16640 Kenrick Ave. in Lakeville, Minnesota, where Cooper Webb and Justin Barcia will be on hand to meet fans, sign autographs and give away posters.

Additional Yamaha bLU cRU Supercross riders who will be at Motoprimo include:

Monster Energy/Yamalube/Star/Yamaha Racing fill-in rider, Thomas Ramette
CycleTrader/Rock River/Yamaha’s Brandon Hartranft and Alex Ray

For more Yamaha racing news, results, photos, and videos, visit http://www.YamahaMotorsports.com/Racing

Also, check out “YamahaMotorUSA” on your favorite social media site.

The post Justin Barcia Returns to Racing Supercross This Saturday in Minneapolis appeared first on Dirt Bikes.

Eli Tomac Toughs Out a Muddy Monster Energy Supercross Win in Seattle

Brent Jaswinski — Mon, 09 Apr 2018 18:03:02 +0000

SEATTLE, WA – April 8, 2018 – Monster Energy AMA Supercross, an FIM World Championship, hosted Round 13 in front of 55,407 fans inside CenturyLink Field in Seattle for one of the slimiest, slickest races in history.

The Monster Energy Kawasaki of Eli Tomac found its way to a third-place start, battling back and forth with Team Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Marvin Musquin for second with Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s Jason Anderson out front for the first five laps. After Tomac passed Musquin, a mistake by Anderson handed Tomac the lead for the remaining six laps of the 11-lap race. Anderson held on to second ahead of Musquin who rounded out the podium with a third-place finish.

“It’s just one of those tracks where you just have to either ride it and have fun or you’re just in misery, and today we were having fun,” Tomac said after the race. “That was, by far, the craziest Supercross moments I’ve ever been in. It felt like I was in the backyard just having fun and riding in the mud, and that’s how you had to treat it.”

Tomac captures his sixth 450SX Class win of the 2018 season at Round 13 in Seattle. | Photo credit: Feld Entertainment, Inc.

Monster Energy/Yamalube/Star/Yamaha Racing’s Aaron Plessinger ran away with the 250SX Class win, leading from the start of the 8-lap Main Event. GEICO Honda’s Chase Sexton earned a career-best second-place finish ahead of Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki’s Adam Cianciarulo in third.

“That was fun,” Plessinger said on the podium. “That was a sick race; it reminded me of a lot of GNCCs, so it was good to get out there and have some fun and rip some ruts. There were sometimes where the ruts were two feet deep, and you just had to pick a good line … I knew I could do it here. I love Seattle. I love all these fans here; they make it exciting.”

Aaron Plessinger extends his Western Regional 250SX Class points lead with his fourth win of the season in Seattle. | Photo credit: Feld Entertainment, Inc.

For official race results, please visit results.amasupercross.com.

450SX Class Results

Eli Tomac, Cortez, Colo., Kawasaki
Jason Anderson, Rio Rancho, N.M., Husqvarna
Marvin Musquin, Clermont, Fla., KTM
Broc Tickle, Holly, Mich., KTM
Cooper Webb, Newport, N.C., Yamaha
Tyler Bowers, Lake Elsinore, Calif., Kawasaki
Chad Reed, Dade City, Fla., Husqvarna
Blake Baggett, Grand Terrance, Calif., KTM
Dean Wilson, Clermont, Fla., Husqvarna
Weston Peick, Menifee, Calif., Suzuki

450SX Class Championship Standings

Jason Anderson, Rio Rancho, N.M., Husqvarna (288)
Marvin Musquin, Clermont, Fla., KTM (251)
Eli Tomac, Cortez, Colo., Kawasaki (220)
Justin Brayton, Mint Hill, N.C., Honda (213)
Blake Baggett, Grand Terrance, Calif., KTM (209)
Weston Peick, Menifee, Calif., Suzuki (185)
Broc Tickle, Holly, Mich., KTM (184)
Cooper Webb, Newport, N.C., Yamaha (180)
Dean Wilson, Clermont, Fla., Husqvarna (152)
Malcolm Stewart, Haines City, Fla., Suzuki (125)

Western Regional 250SX Class Results

Aaron Plessinger, Hamilton, Ohio, Yamaha
Chase Sexton, Clermont, Fla., Honda
Adam Cianciarulo, New Smyrna Beach, Fla., Kawasaki
Shane McElrath, Canton, N.C., KTM
Justin Starling, Deland, Fla., Husqvarna
Mitchell Oldenburg, Alvord, Texas, Yamaha
Mitchell Harrison, Tallahassee, Fla., Husqvarna
Kyle Chisholm, Valrico, Fla., Yamaha
Justin Hill, Yoncalla, Ore., Suzuki
Hayden Mellross, Clermont, Fla., Yamaha

Western Regional 250SX Class Championship Standings

Aaron Plessinger, Hamilton, Ohio, Yamaha (177)
Adam Cianciarulo, New Smyrna Beach, Fla., Kawasaki (160)
Joey Savatgy, Thomasville, Ga., Kawasaki (153)
Shane McElrath, Canton, N.C., KTM (146)
Chase Sexton, Clermont, Fla., Honda (132)
Justin Hill, Yoncalla, Ore., Suzuki (119)
Kyle Chisholm, Valrico, Fla., Yamaha (110)
Christian Craig, Orange, Calif. Honda (106)
Mitchell Harrison, Tallahassee, Fla., Husqvarna (100)
Hayden Mellross, Clermont, Fla., Yamaha (81)

The 2018 Monster Energy Supercross season continues April 14 with Round 14 inside U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis. Watch the action on FS1 at 10 p.m. ET.

Facebook: facebook.com/supercrosslive
Twitter: twitter.com/supercrosslive
Instagram: instagram.com/supercrosslive
YouTube: youtube.com/supercrosslive

The post Eli Tomac Toughs Out a Muddy Monster Energy Supercross Win in Seattle appeared first on Dirt Bikes.