GasGas is preparing to launch a new model called the RX 450F Replica that we believe will be based on the machine Sam Sunderland rode to victory in the 2022 Dakar Rally.

The RX 450F Replica model name appears on a recently updated list of vehicles approved by the Kraftfahrt-Bundesamt, Germany’s federal motor transport authority. The name is similar, though not a perfect match, for the RC 450F ridden by Sunderland and his teammate Daniel Sanders (who was no slouch himself in winning three stages) in the Dakar Rally.

Despite the variation in the name, we suspect the RX 450F Replica is indeed the rally bike because it is listed with similar information to KTM’s own 450 Rally Replica, and the RC 450F race bike was essentially a rebadged version of the orange bike.

KTM has offered a rally replica for a few years now, as has Husqvarna, with its version dubbed the FR 450 Rally. With GasGas victorious at this year’s Dakar Rally, it seems logical that Pierer Mobility’s red brand would also get the replica treatment.

The German type approval document doesn’t provide many details about the RC 450F Replica, except that it is powered by a 449cc engine, has a single seat and is classified as an enduro motorcycle. KTM, however, revealed the 2023 450 Rally Replica in June, and we can expect the bikes to be nearly identical. That means the same 449cc SOHC Single, rally racing gear ratios, WP suspension, Akrapovič exhaust, and secondary fuel tank that doubles as the subframe.

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What is Black Friday?

Falling on the day after US Thanksgiving, “Black Friday” is unofficial start to the holiday shopping season. Though not an actual holiday, a lot of people take both the Thursday and Friday off for a four-day weekend. That’s one reason why retailers have jumped on Black Friday, with big sales for people taking the day off to go shopping for holiday gifts. The result is one of the busiest shopping days of the year.

For 2020, Black Friday falls on Nov. 27, with many retailers timing their sales for the stroke of midnight (and some even earlier!).

Here are some of the best Black Friday deals for dirt bike riders. (Updated Nov. 18, 2020 with new deals.)

Arai VX Pro-4 Slash Helmet – Save 15%

The iconic Arai VX Pro-3 receives its long-awaited replacement in the form of the Arai VX Pro 4 Helmet. The Arai VX Pro4 dirt helmet is for the serious off-road enthusiast, who requires nothing but the utmost in comfort and protection from their lid. The round shell shape is based on Arai’s R75 Shape Concept and is optimized for strength and the peak, mouth vent and top vents are all designed to break away upon impact leaving less surface mass to catch or bind.

The interior Dry-Cool liner and cheek pads have been redesigned for comfort and ease of putting the helmet on and removing it, and feature Arai’s signature triple-density foam construction. The eyeport is extremely wide and is large enough to accommodate even the largest goggles for a panoramic view of your surroundings. All the VX Pro vents have been redesigned, including an all new chin vent which has been moved to the outside of the helmet, which in turn makes the helmet roomier in the chin area. The other vents have been re-tooled as well, to provide increased airflow.

Shop for the Arai VX Pro-4 Slash Helmet here

Fox Racing Comp R Boots – Save 60%

Leave distractions and restrictions behind with the Fox Racing Comp R boots. Pure and practical, the Comp R combines the Fox ActiveLock closure and floating cuff system for best-in-class mobility. The two lower buckles were designed to hold the top of your foot firmly while pulling the ankle into the boot. The calf closure utilizes the ActiveLock silicone strap for extra support and flexibility, while the floating-cuff system in the heel allows the boot to move more naturally for improved agility but still locks out to prevent hyperextension.

All of these features combined means the Comp R Boots fit snug, have zero pull in the heel, and are comfortable right out of the box.

Shop for the Fox Racing Comp R Boots here

EVS TP 199 Knee / Shin Pads – Save 20%

Designed specifically for Travis Pastrana, the official EVS TP199 Knee Pads offer everything for those looking for complete support without the bulk of a traditional knee brace.

Shop for the EVS TP 199 Knee / Shin Pads here

Fox Racing Youth V1 Matte Helmet – Save 20%

The Fox Racing Youth V1 Helmet delivers the next level of rider technology, Fox’s exclusive Magnetic Visor Release System (MVRS). This pro-level patent pending feature removes the three visor screws and replaces them with magnets to allow the visor to release from the helmet in the event of a crash, while also securely staying in place when needed to protect from roost and aiding in clear vision.

As always, the V1 Helmet from Fox Racing offers value, comfort, and performance in a single package, setting the standard for head protection in the dirt. It features injection molded polycarbonate shell construction, four shell sizes, and four EPS sizes for a precise fit.

Shop for the Fox Racing Youth V1 Matte Helmet here

Trackside Optima Gear Bag – Save 70%

The Tracksize Optimate Gear Bag has the space and durability to hold and transport all your gear to whatever riding event you’re heading to. Featuring a nylon construction with 1200D ballistic nylon reinforcements, the Optima Gear Bag has YKK zippers throughout and a detachable shoulder strap for easy carrying.

Shop for the Trackside Optima Gear Bag here

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The post Top 5 Black Friday Dirtbike Deals Available Now appeared first on Dirt Bikes.

Kawasaki revealed an all-new KX250, an updated KX450, plus two new XC cross country versions of the motocross racers for the 2021 model year.

Also announced with updated graphics are the KLX300R, KLX230, KLX110R plus its taller L variant, and a KLX140R F featuring full sized 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wheels. These join the previously announced models in Kawasaki’s 2021 dirt bike lineup.
2021 Kawasaki KX250

2021 Kawasaki KX250

The 2021 Kawasaki KX250 receives an upgraded engine, revised suspension and an updated frame inherited from the KX450.

Kawasaki revised the liquid-cooled 249cc DOHC four-valve Single’s combustion chamber and added a flatter piston crown, increased the diameters of the intake and exhaust port throats. The exhaust cam timing was adjusted by three degrees and the outer valve springs now have a higher spring rate, increasing the rev limit by 350 rpm while improving durability.

The cylinder wall is thicker than the previous generation for increased rigidity and reduced mechanical losses. The connecting rod was lengthened by 3mm, reducing the lateral force on the cylinder walls. Kawasaki also modified the water jacket for improved cooling efficiency. Other engine changes include ECU updates, a revised crank web for quicker revs and less weight, plus a new reed valve added behind the generator to vent crankcase pressure.

All together, Kawasaki claims the new engine offers increased power for both the top and bottom ends of the rev range and improved durability. Starting the engine is also easier with a new push-button electric start powered by a lithium-ion battery.

Kawasaki also updated the hydraulic clutch using a single coned disc-spring instead of five coiled springs. Kawasaki claims this design offers lighter clutch actuation and a wider range of engagement. The friction plates now have offset segments for cleaner disc separation and reduced drag when the clutch is disengaged.

The 2021 KX250 receives a new aluminum perimeter frame and swingarm, both based on the KX450’s chassis. The main differences are cast parts such as the shock tower mount and engine hangers which were designed specifically for the 250. Kawasaki claims the frame offers improved rigidity, further aided by using the engine as a stressed member.

The 48mm Kayaba coil-spring inverted fork’s settings were revised to match the new frame, increasing bump absorption and traction. The Uni-Trak rear suspension is new, with linkage ratios matching the KX450. The suspension mounts under the swingarm, increasing the rear travel by 0.2 inches to 12.4 inches, matching the front suspension travel.

Also new is a 1-1⁄8 inch Renthal aluminum Fatbar handlebar. Kawasaki says the new bar reduces vibrations and moves the grips closer to the rider to make it easier to weight the front wheel.

The 2021 Kawasaki KX250 is priced at $8,299.

2021 Kawasaki KX450

The 2021 KX450 receives the same single coned disc spring clutch and Renthal Fatbar as the KX250. Kawasaki also added a dry film lubricant coating to the piston skirt, claiming reduced friction and improved performance.

The 2021 Kawasaki KX450 retails for $9,399.

2021 Kawasaki KX250XC

New to the lineup is the KX250XC, a new cross-country racer based on the new KX250 motocrosser.

Differences include different engine mappings optimized for cross country racing, a one-tooth larger rear sprocket, revised suspension settings, an 18-inch rear wheel, Dunlop AT81 off-road tires, a side stand, additional engine protection and off-road optimized front brake pads.

The 2021 Kawasaki KX250XC carries an MSRP of $8,399.

2021 Kawasaki KX450XC

As with the 250s, the new KX450XC is heavily based on the motocross model but revised for cross country racing. It receives the same modifications as the KX250XC.

The 2021 Kawasaki KX450XC is available for $9,599.

The post 2021 Kawasaki KX250, KX450 and XC Cross Country Models Announced appeared first on Dirt Bikes.

AMA Hall of Famer and the first ever AMA 125cc National Motocross Champion Marty Smith and his wife, Nancy, have died in a dune buggy accident.

The Smiths were riding in the Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area (a.k.a. the Glamis Dunes) when the dune buggy they were driving rolled over.

In a Facebook post, former motocross racer Lee Ramage said he and his wife Tammi were riding in the buggy with the Smiths when the accident happened. Ramage says he and his wife were unhurt and attended their friends, waiting for first responders to arrive.

Marty Smith won three national titles, the 1974 and 1975 125cc championships and the 1977 500cc championship. Smith won 18 career nationals, and was one of the few to win in the 125cc, 250cc and 500cc classes, as well as in Trans AMA competition. Smith also won the 125cc U.S. Grand Prix of Motocross in 1975 and 1976.

Smith won all of his championships with Honda, and was a fixture in the company’s advertising with his trademark long flowing hair. In 1980, Smith began riding with Suzuki, retiring after the 1981 season.

The San Diego native was inducted into the AMA Hall of Fame in 2000. You can read more about his life on the Hall of Fame’s website.

Marty and Nancy Smith are survived by their three children, Jillyin, Brooke and Tyler.

The post Marty Smith: 1956-2020 appeared first on Dirt Bikes.

When shopping for new dirt bike grips, you need to consider several factors, such as the tensity of the materials and the pattern of the grip.

Construction

Dirt bike grips typically come in soft or medium density compounds, or multi-density compounds that combine different materials to take advantage of their strengths. Soft materials provide better vibration damping and grip, while medium compounds are more durable.

Manufacturers also offer dual or even triple density compounds. These usually consist of a harder inner compound for a secure fit to the handlebar, and a softer exterior where they come in contact with your hands.

Grip Pattern

Off-road grips usually come in either waffle or non-waffle style patterns. These raised surfaces help to ensure good traction between your hands and the grip.

The waffle pattern is a raised grid-like surface resembling the breakfast dish. Waffle patterns provide good grip, especially in wet or muddy conditions, but the raised texture does increase the overall circumference which may make it harder for riders with smaller hands to hold. As a compromise, some manufacturers produce a half- or even a third-waffle pattern, with the raised surfaces beneath where your fingers would go.

Grip makers also offer non-waffle surfaces, usually with a textured knurling, which tend to be thinner and thus easier for smaller hands, but with poorer grip in messy conditions.

Other manufacturers make grips with raised pads or “pillow tops”, which make them look a bit like tire treads. These offer good grip and vibration damping, but also raise the overall diameter of the grip.

Glue On or Clamp On?

Most grips on the market require grip glue to maintain a firm hold on the handlebars, with safety wire to ensure a more secure fit. These kinds of grips come in different sizes to match handlebar diameters, but are otherwise universal.

The other alternative is a clamp-on or lock-on grip. These types of grips are easier and faster to install because you don’t have to wait for the glue to dry, but they tend to be more expensive. They’re also model specific because the right grips come with throttle tubes and cams that attach to your throttle cables.

ODI Emig Pro V2 Lock On Grips

Designed with the help of multiple-time AMA Champion Jeff Emig, the ODI Emig Pro V2 grips use a soft compound and a lock-on system. The grips use a diamond knurled pattern with raised ribs instead of a waffle pattern. The grip ends are reinforced with aluminum end caps which protect against the handlebar tearing through them in a crash.

Shop for ODI Emig Pro V2 Lock On Grips here

ODI Rogue MX Grips

The Rogue MX grips from ODI are made of a harder inner layer and a softer outer compound with large raised pads to dampen vibrations. The ends are also reinforced for added durability.

Shop for ODI Rogue MX Grips here

Pro Taper 788 Triple-Density Grips

Pro Taper’s 788 grips combine three different compounds: a hard inner compound, and a mix of medium and soft density gels in the palm area to dampen vibrations.

Shop for Pro Taper 788 Triple-Density Grips here

Pro Taper Clamp-On Half Waffle Grips

These Pro Taper grips use a dual-compound construction with a half-waffle pattern to ensure a thinner diameter. The “windowed core” design promises more cushioning in the palm and finger areas for a more comfortable feel.

Shop for Pro Taper Clamp-On Half Waffle Grips here

Pro Taper Pillow Top Grips

Pro Taper’s Pillow Top design uses raised pads to help reduce vibrations, while claiming to be self-cleaning. A tacky gel-like surface provides grip, while the inner core, donut and end and made from a harder compound to provide increased durability.

Shop for Pro Taper Pillow Top Grips here

Renthal Full Waffle Grips

Renthal’s Full Waffle grip is available in a choice of soft, medium or firm single compounds. The waffle grip design provides good traction, especially when it gets muddy.

Shop for Renthal Full Waffle Grips here

Renthal Ultra Tacky Dual Compound Tapered Grips

As its name implies, these half-waffle grips use two compounds, including a soft outer compound treated with a sticky coating. Renthal claims the tacky treatment will last the life of the grip. If the surface feels like it’s loosing its stickiness, Renthal says a simple wash in clean water and air drying will restore the tacky feeling.

Shop for Renthal Ultra Tacky Dual Compound Tapered Grips here

Renthal Kevlar Dual Compound Grips

Renthal added Kevlar Aramid resin particles into the soft thermoplastic outer layer of these grips, claiming they help the grips last up to three time slonger than regular soft compound grips. As the soft material wears away, more Aramid resin is exposed, helping to resist further wear while still providing a tacky feel. These half-waffle grips are available in a standard grip as well as a tapered design diamond pattern getting increasingly larger as you move closer to the donut.

Shop for Renthal Kevlar Dual Compound Grips here

Scott Diamond Grips

The Scott Diamond Grips use a modified full waffle designs, with the raised portion forming angled shapes instead of a rectangular grid. The raised waffle is made from a medium-density compound while the diamond pattern uses a softer material for increased comfort. The end cap is made from a firmer density material to resist tearing.

Shop for Scott Diamond Grips here

This post was originally published Oct. 7, 2019, and updated March 31, 2020 with up-to-date products

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The post Best Dirt Bike Grips appeared first on Dirt Bikes.

KTM has come to the rescue of GasGas, forming a joint venture with the Spanish off-road brand that will see it continue to produce motorcycles in Girona, Spain.

GasGas was having financial issues earlier this summer (it’s somewhat of a recurring motif for the brand, to be honest), taking measures to cut costs and improve cash flow. GasGas’ owner, Black Toro Capital, turned to KTM and worked out a deal that would ensure continued production of GasGas motorcycles as well as Torrot electric vehicles.

“(This news) represents a major step forward in our project to consolidate GASGAS as a world leaderof trial, it allows us to develop a new growth phase for GASGAS incorporating new models with cutting-edge technology with the best possible partner for the future of GASGAS,” says Ramón Betolaza, managing partner of Black Toro Capital.

Terms of the deal (which is still subject to the approval of antitrust authorities) were not released, though some outlets report KTM is taking on a 60% share of GasGas. In addition to existing models, the deal will see development on future trial and enduro bikes for GasGas. The new products will make use of KTM technology, similar to how Husqvarna shares tech with the Austrian brand.

Black Toro Capital says GasGas will be expanding its portfolio to different segments and engine displacements, with a focus on four-stroke engines and electric motorcycles and electric bicycles. GasGas currently produces two-stroke dirt bikes in 200cc, 250cc and 300cc displacements, and two-stroke trials bikes in 125cc, 250cc 280cc and 300cc sizes, plus the electric TXE trial bike (pictured at top) and a range of electric youth models.

For KTM, the arrangement achieves a couple of goals. First, it gives KTM a larger presence in Spain, including access to GasGas and Torrot’s production facilities in Girona. The deal could also add a third brand alongside KTM and Husqvarna. KTM will also be able to draw on the electric vehicle technology used by GasGas and its sister brands Torrot and electric scooter brand Muving.

KTM is already working on several electric motorcycle projects. In addition to the already in production Husqvarna EE5, KTM SX-E5 and Freeride E electrics, KTM has already confirmed plans for a lightweight Freeride Light for 2020 and an electric Husqvarna scooter for 2020/2021.

The post KTM is Forming a Joint Venture with GasGas appeared first on Dirt Bikes.

Maxxis Maxxcross SM

The Maxxis Maxxcross SM is made of a silica-based rubber compound designed to repel mud. The computer-enhanced tread pattern promises optimal traction in sandy motocross tracks and muddy cross country terrain. The shoulders incorporate anti-flex knob bridges for improved traction and stability.

Maxxis Maxxcross SI

Developed for GNCC and WORCS competition, the Maxxcross SI promises good traction in soft and intermediate terrain. Anti-flex knob bridges on the side lugs provide stability when traveling straight and enhanced grip in the corners.

Maxxis Maxxcross Desert IT

Based on the Maxxcross IT, the Desert IT is designed specifically to withstand the heat and high speeds of desert riding. The tread compound was engineered for rocky or desert conditions, reducing chipping and cutting. A stiffer carcass design minimizes flex, making it less likely to get the tubes pinched.

Maxxis M6001 Intermediate

The Maxxis M6001 is the company’s original intermediate terrai tire, suitable for motocross and cross country riding. The knob and groove tread were designed to maximize handling and traction in a variety of conditions. The rubber compound balances grip and reduced tread wear while the reinforced bead employs extra nylon for added strength and lower risk of tire/rim separation.

Maxxis Maxxcross IT

The Maxxcross IT is designed for motocross and cross country racing in a variety of soil conditions. The knobs are designed to offer precise steering and handling.

Maxxis Maxxcross EN

The Maxxcross EN is Maxxis’ pro endurocross tire. The EN offers a tacky compound with a compliant carcass to handle endurocross obstacles. The large knobs are widely spaced to help shed mud and steer quickly. Knob sipes allow them to flex, helping improve grip on rocks and hard terrain.

Maxxis Maxxcross MX-ST

Designed by seven-time Supercross Champion Jeremy McGrath, the all-new Maxxcross MX-ST is Maxxis’ tire of choice for motocross racing on soft to intermediate terrain. The tread pattern is designed to optimize traction and braking performance. The MX-ST has carcass is lighter than Maxxis’ other MX tires for reduced rotational mass while still promising improved ride comfort and impact absorption.

Maxxis Maxxcross MX-IT

The Maxxcross MX-IT is designed for intermediate outdoor motocross track conditions. The front tire uses Maxxis’ standard IT compound for the base of the knobs and a soft cap layer across the center to soak up vibrations and enhance braking traction. The rear MX-IT tire offers a softer compound in the middle for straightline traction, with standard IT compound knobs for stability through corners.

Maxxis Maxxcross MX-HT

The Maxxcross MX-HT is Maxxis’ pro-level motocross tire for hard terrain. The variable tread pattern is designed for precise performance in hard conditions, promising good traction, control and predictability. Large shoulder lugs provided added grip at higher lean angles.

Maxxis Maxxcross Dual SX

The Maxxis Maxxcross Dual SX is a dual-compound tire for supercross and arenacross racing. THe front tire has a standard base compound for stability and a softer cap compound for braking and cornering traction. The rear tire uses soft shoulder knobs and an even softer compound for center knobs for straight-line traction.

Maxxis DTR-1

THe Maxxis DTR-1 is designed for dirt track racing. Maxxis offers two different compounds, the soft CD3 and the medium CD5 compound. The tread design can be customized for individual rider needs. As the DTR-1 tires are specifically for racing, they are not approved for street or highway use.

The post Maxxis Dirt Bike Tires – Which Tire is the Best for You? appeared first on Dirt Bikes.

According to TheSun.co.uk, Geboers was on a boat on lake in Mol, Belgium, on Sunday evening when his Shiba Inu puppy plunged into the water. According to witnesses, Geboers immediately jumped in to save the dog. Geboers immediately had difficulty, and despite efforts from other people on the boat, went under the water. Rescue crews recovered Geboers’ body the next day. The dog, a recent gift from his wife, reportedly survived.

Geboers, nicknamed “The Kid,” won the 125cc World Championship in 1982 and 1983 for Suzuki. He joined Honda’s factory team in 1987 and immediately won the 250cc championship. Also with Honda, Deboers won the 500cc championship in 1988 and 1990, making him the first person to win world titles in all three classes.

“I am deeply saddened by the news of Eric Goeboers passing away. He was an outstanding rider, dominating the Motocross World Championship and leading Honda to victory three times,” says Takahiro Hachigo, president and chief executive officer of Honda. “I would like to celebrate his achievements, and express my deepest gratitude towards him.”

After retiring from racing in 1990, Geboers joined his older brother Sylvain Geboers in running Suzuki’s World Motocross team from 200 to 2015. Geboers also raced cars, competing in the FIA GT endurance racing series.

The post RIP Five-Time World MX Champion Eric Geboers appeared first on Dirt Bikes.

To prepare for the 2018 All-Japan Motocross season, Kawasaki’s factory team took part in some regional races on a redesigned KX450F-SR, the race bike that will form the basis for the production KX450F. Traditionally, the Japanese manufacturers debut their new models in the All-Japan series before following up with a production model that will be used in most other national and international motocross series such as AMA Motocross and Supercross and the FIM MXGP.

Here’s the new KX450F-SR (click on the Tweet to view a larger version of the pictures):

And for comparison, here is the the 2018 KX450F below:

Before we get to into this, let’s observe some caveats: the KX450F-SR is a pre-production race bike, so some of the details you’ll see will not carry over to the KX450F. Components such as suspension, chains, and exhausts may differ from the production model. The engine, chassis and bodywork, however, will be similar to the production version, so that’s where we’ll focus our attention.

At first glance, it’s clear that the engine is new. The cylinder appears slimmer and the cylinder head is significantly larger. On the right side, the new F-SR is missing a kickstarter. Where the kickstarter used to attach, Kawasaki has relocated the oil fill plug (identifiable by the bright green cap).

In case you need further proof the engine is new, the California Air Resources Board has issued a red sticker certification document for a 2019 KX450F, noting the engine family name is “KX450J”. That last letter is significant as it is changed with every engine update. The current (2016-2018) KX450F has been certified with the engine code “KX450H” (the letter is changed in alphabetical order, but skips “I” because it can be confused with a one or a lower-case “L”). The engine preceeding that was identified as “KX450F” (2012-2015), and before that came the “KX450E” (2009-2011) which introduced fuel injection to the line.

Other changes we can see include a flatter seat, a new swingarm and a revised frame. We can’t get a clear look at the rear subframe but we expect some differences there as well.

Kawasaki typically releases information about its motocross lineup in early June so we expect to hear an official announcement about the 2019 KX450F around then. We’ll have the latest here on Dirtbikes.com as it becomes available.

The post New Kawasaki KX450F Coming for 2019 appeared first on Dirt Bikes.