GAUTIER PAULIN WINS MXGP OF EUROPE

Courtesy of Husqvarna Motorcycles

ROCKSTAR ENERGY HUSQVARNA FACTORY RACING RIDER CLIMBS TO THIRD IN MXGP STANDINGS FOLLOWING INSPIRING PERFORMANCE IN VALKENSWAARD

Gautier Paulin – Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing

Gautier Paulin – Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing

Max Nagl – Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing

Thomas Kjer-Olsen – Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing

Thomas Covington – Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing

Conrad Mewse - Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing

Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s Gautier Paulin has secured his first GP victory of the 2017 FIM Motocross World Championship, claiming an emphatic opening moto win and securing a runner-up result in moto two at the MXGP of Europe in The Netherlands. 

With round six of the world championship taking place at the iconic sandy track of Valkenswaard, Paulin started the GP claiming a strong third place result in the qualifying race. Getting a perfect start on his FC 450 in the opening MXGP moto, the Frenchman retained the lead from start to finish to celebrate his first moto victory aboard Husqvarna machinery. 

Well-placed inside the top five at the start of moto two, Gautier showed his determination to battle for the overall victory. Making some crucial passes he managed to cross the finish line as a runner-up behind Antonio Cairoli. Completing a well-calculated GP the Frenchman gained two spots in the MXGP championship standings, where he’s now placed third behind Tim Gajser and Cairoli. 

Not getting the best of starts, Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s Max Nagl pushed hard to claim 10th overall at the GP of Europe. Getting a 10th place result in the opening moto, the German wrapped up the event with 11th in moto two. 

In the MX2 category, it was an event of mixed emotions for Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s Thomas Kjer-Olsen. Showing he has the speed to battle for the top three, the young Dane earned fourth overall in the 250cc class. Battling back from a crash while running sixth in moto one, Thomas reached the finish in ninth position. Getting a mediocre start in moto two, he made a series of impressive passes to claim fourth. 

For Thomas Covington the highlight of his GP in Valkenswaard was a strong third place result in the opening MX2 moto. Bending his bars during a crash in moto two, the young American was unable to finish his last race of the day. 

A poor start in moto one and a crash in moto two didn’t allow Conrad Mewse the opportunity to capitalise on the improved speed the Brit demonstrated during the previous GP in Italy. Collecting 20/22 results, Conrad had to settle for 25th overall at the GP of Europe. 

The Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing team will return to action at round seven of the 2017 FIM Motocross World Championship in Latvia on May 6/7. 

Gautier Paulin: “It’s been an amazing GP. We started off with a good pace in qualifying. I was feeling good on the bike ever since I stepped foot on this track, so I was very positive of some good results. We had a perfect opening moto. I got a clear holeshot and managed to successfully defend my lead until the finish line. Despite not getting the best of starts in moto two, I stayed focused on the goal of winning the overall. I kept pushing and as soon as I saw other riders suffering physically I gave one last push for the overall victory. I honestly have no words to thank my Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing team for all their hard work and dedication. This victory has given us a big confidence boost for the races to come.” 

Max Nagl: “Our speed was not so bad, but we struggled with the starts in both motos. If you don’t get a good start it’s really hard to make up time – you have to take lots of risks to go after the guys out front. I tried my best in both motos but it just wasn’t meant to be. We’ll keep working hard hoping for some better results at the GPs to come. We’re now heading to Kegums and another sand track and the goal is to be able to battle for the top three there.” 

Thomas Kjer-Olsen: “We’re in a very good place right now. I’m enjoying racing my bike and my speed is really competitive. If we manage to minimise mistakes, we will be able to consistently be on the podium. In moto one I got a good start but as I was battling for the top five I was involved in a crash with a few other riders. I picked myself up and kept pushing hard to get ninth. My start wasn’t as good in moto two, but without making any mistakes I crossed the line in fourth for fourth overall at the GP. We’re fourth now in the standings and I believe we can go even higher.” 

Thomas Covington: “My riding was good throughout the weekend despite the rough sandy track. Following a strong sixth place in qualifying race I got off to a good start in moto one and managed to make some good passes for third at the finish line. Towards the end of the moto I felt a bit of pain in my back but I tried not to let that affect my performance and my lap times. To finish third felt good and I was looking forward to moto two. Unfortunately, my start was bad in the last moto and as I was pushing to make passes I crashed and bent my bars. The championship still has a long way to go. We proved the speed is there so it’s up to me now to reduce mistakes and be more consistent.” 

Conrad Mewse: “Overall, I’m satisfied with my speed over the weekend. We started off with a strong ninth place during qualifying and a good overall feeling on the rough sandy track. Battling through a bad start in moto one I had to settle for 20th. My start was way better in moto two and I was running in fourth place before crashing in one of the big downhills of the track. I picked myself up but couldn’t manage anything better than 22nd. My results might not have been great but I’m happy with my pace, especially towards the end of the first moto.” 

Results – FIM Motocross World Championship, Round 6 

MXGP - Overall 
1. Gautier Paulin (Husqvarna) 47pts; 2. Jeffrey Herlings (KTM) 40; 3. Jeremy Van Horebeek (Yamaha) 38… 10. Max Nagl (Husqvarna) 21… 13. Tanel Leok (Husqvarna) 17… 15. Harri Kullas (Husqvarna) 8… 18. Yentel Martens (Husqvarna) 6… 21. Rui Goncalves (Husqvarna) 3 

MXGP - Race 1 
1. Gautier Paulin (Husqvarna) 18 laps, 35:24.915; 2. Jeremy Van Horebeek (Yamaha) 35:25.865; 3. Jeffrey Herlings (KTM) 35:29.739… 10. Max Nagl (Husqvarna) 36:03.340… 13. Tanel Leok (Husqvarna) 36:37.584… 15. Yentel Martens (Husqvarna) 36:52.125… 17. Harri Kullas (Husqvarna) 36:56.046… 19. Rui Goncalves (Husqvarna) 37:05.902… 28. Klemen Gercar (Husqvarna) 17 laps, 36:20.178; 29. Sven Van der Mierden (Husqvarna) 36:28.204 

MXGP - Race 2 
1. Antonio Cairoli (KTM) 18 laps, 35:26.367; 2. Gautier Paulin (Husqvarna) 35:28.625; 3. Jeffrey Herlings (KTM) 35:28.984… 11. Max Nagl (Husqvarna) 36:08.967; 12. Tanel Leok (Husqvarna) 36:11.560… 17. Harri Kullas (Husqvarna) 36:54.333… 20. Rui Goncalves (Husqvarna) 17 laps, 35:36.253… 27. Klemen Gercar (Husqvarna) 36:39.065 

MX2 - Overall 
1. Pauls Jonass (KTM) 50; 2. Jeremy Seewer (Suzuki) 40; 3. Brent Van doninck (Yamaha) 36; 4. Thomas Kjer-Olsen (Husqvarna) 30… 10. Thomas Covington (Husqvarna) 20… 13. Brian Hsu (Husqvarna) 15… 17. Henry Jacobi (Husqvarna) 11… 25. Conrad Mewse (Husqvarna) 1 

MX2 - Race 1 
1. Pauls Jonass (KTM) 18 laps, 35:37.548; 2. Julien Lieber (KTM) 35:41.024; 3. Thomas Covington (Husqvarna) 36:14.476… 9. Thomas Kjer-Olsen (Husqvarna) 36:50.113… 13. Henry Jacobi (Husqvarna) 37:08.669… 20. Conrad Mewse (Husqvarna) 37:36.157… 23. Caleb Ward (Husqvarna) 17 laps, 35:49.687… 29. Enzo Toriani (Husqvarna) 16 laps, 36:10.184; 30. Karel Kutsar (Husqvarna) 35:59.232; 31. Gabriele Arbini (Husqvarna) 36:11.058; 32. Brian Hsu (Husqvarna) 37:06.931 

MX2 - Race 2 
1. Pauls Jonass (KTM) 17 laps, 34:09.329; 2. Jeremy Seewer (Suzuki) 34:13.820; 3. Brent Van doninck (Yamaha) 34:18.839; 4. Thomas Kjer-Olsen (Husqvarna) 34:22.681… 6. Brian Hsu (Husqvarna) 34:38.023… 18. Henry Jacobi (Husqvarna) 35:20.336… 21. Anton Gole (Husqvarna) 35:30.241; 22. Conrad Mewse (Husqvarna) 35:44.951… 29. Gabriele Arbini (Husqvarna) 16 laps, 35:47.231; 30. Enzo Toriani (Husqvarna) 35:47.362 

Championship Standings (After Round 6) 

MXGP 
1. Tim Gajser (Honda) 234pts; 2. Antonio Cairoli (KTM) 220; 3. Gautier Paulin (Husqvarna) 192… 10. Max Nagl (Husqvarna) 116… 15. Max Anstie (Husqvarna) 69; 16. Tanel Leok (Husqvarna) 54… 18. Rui Goncalves (Husqvarna) 45… 23. Harri Kullas (Husqvarna) 8… 28. Yentel Martens (Husqvarna) 6 

MX2 
1. Pauls Jonass (KTM) 242pts; 2. Jeremy Seewer (Suzuki) 223 points; 3. Julien Lieber (KTM) 197; 4. Thomas Kjer-Olsen (Husqvarna) 188… 7. Thomas Covington (Husqvarna) 133… 20. Iker Larranaga (Husqvarna) 43… 22. Anton Gole (Husqvarna) 38; 23. Brian Hsu (Husqvarna) 28… 25. Conrad Mewse (Husqvarna) 23; 27. Caleb Ward (Husqvarna) 14… 29. Henri Jacobi (Husqvarna) 14… 35. Karel Kutsar (Husqvarna) 2; 36. Ivan Petrov (Husqvarna) 1… 38. Aaron Tanti (Husqvarna) 1

 

Bonacquisto named Director of Marketing for VP Racing Fuels

Courtesy of VP Racing Fuel

SAN ANTONIO, TX – April 21, 2017 – VP Racing Fuels® today announced the appointment of Donato Bonacquisto as Director of Marketing.  In that position, Bonacquisto will be responsible for advertising, sponsorships, event management and public relations in support of all VP business divisions including Race Fuel, Branding and Consumer Products.  “Donato brings a wealth of experience in the marketing, automotive and motorsports industries and we’re confident he’ll hit the ground running to continue the rapid pace of growth we’ve established here at VP,” said Alan Cerwick, President of VP Racing Fuels.

Donato Bonacquisto

Bonacquisto comes to VP from Hankook Tire America where, as Motorsports and Events Manager, he promoted the Hankook Tire brand in the U.S. market across a mix of professional and amateur motorsports initiatives and top-level events in the consumer, aftermarket and commercial sectors.  Prior to that, he held management positions at multiple NASCAR Cup Series teams in both marketing and business development capacities, in addition to tenures with JHE Production Group managing elements of the Sprint title sponsorship with NASCAR and SPEED Channel as Event Marketing Manager.  Bonacquisto has also held roles in the automotive industry producing media/press launches at APEX Performance and managing luxury brands including Ferrari, Maserati, Porsche, Aston Martin and Bentley.

Bonacquisto began his career in motorsports competing in SCCA events and continues to pursue racing as a hobby.  “I’m excited to join VP and look forward to continuing the very successful growth strategy.  VP has always been a recognized brand in the motorsports world, but we are now striving to also achieve that in the branded and consumer products industry and I’m looking forward to applying the knowledge gained over my career to help drive the continued growth and profitability at VP.”

Chris Wall

In a related move, VP’s Chief Marketing Officer, Chris Wall, is transitioning to a new position as Senior Director-Branded Retail, responsible for wholesale brand development including both VP-branded gas stations/convenience stores and VP FASTLUBE™ service centers.  In his new role, Wall will lead a team of Regional Sales Managers as well as pursue large customers both nationally and internationally.

“With the rapid growth VP is experiencing, it became imperative that we capitalize on the momentum we’re enjoying and aggressively push our retail branding program forward,” said Cerwick.  “Given his success in growing our marketing efforts and experience with our Branding program over the last several years, Chris is well positioned to lead that effort.”

“I am proud of what we have been able to accomplish over the past 2.5 years in company growth and brand recognition.  Donato is the right person to keep our momentum moving forward and it gives me a lot of confidence to leave the department in his competent hands,” said Wall.  “Taking over the VP branded retail division is a dream come true for me.  Leading the set-up of retail VP locations around the world will be a new challenge and extend our brand’s reach on a global scale.”

About VP Racing Fuels

Leveraging its 40+ year racing heritage and reputation for performance, VP Racing Fuels is among the most innovative and fastest growing brands in the country. VP’s retail branding program enables gas stations and convenience stores to reduce their credit card processing expenses and lower their cost of supply as well as increase revenues with new profit centers built on VP-branded products, all while gaining more control over their business.

Best known as the World Leader in Race Fuel Technology™, VP is the Official Racing Fuel of the WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, AMA Supercross, World of Outlaws Sprint Cars and Late Models, Pirelli World Challenge, Formula Drift, NMRA, NMCA PDRA and Rally America, among more than 60 VP-sponsored series and sanctioning bodies.  More information is available online at VPRacingFuels.com.

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SEEWER 2ND, LAWRENCE 6TH IN POSITIVE ROUND FOR SUZUKI WORLD MX2

Courtesy of Team Suzuki Press Office

Team Suzuki Press Office – April 23.

Jeremy Seewer – 4-2 for 2nd
Hunter Lawrence – 10-5 for 6th
Zach Pichon – 16-31 for 23rd (EMX250) 

The sandy Valkenswaard track provided a hard challenge for MX2 riders Jeremy Seewer and Hunter Lawrence, but both riders rose to the occasion, finishing in second and sixth place respectively. For Seewer it was a great comeback from what was a difficult Saturday, while Lawrence was also pleased to have notched-up his best result since joining the Suzuki World MX2 team. 

“I think we made the best out of the day, after yesterday’s performance” said Seewer, “we turned it around with two good starts, that would have been right up there had I had a good gate pick. Both motos I came from like 15th and immediately passed so many riders so that was a good point from today. First moto my setup wasn’t quite on point so I had to settle for fourth, rather than push on for third but it was still good to get some confidence back after yesterday. Then in the second moto we made some good changes on the bike which made my RM-Z250 really good for this track. I was even better on the start and passed the other riders even quicker and got up to second. I even managed to cut Pauls Jonass’ lead at the front which was a nice feeling. Overall I think it was a positive day, despite losing some points in the championship. To be able to come back from Saturday’s result, and only lose a few points is acceptable. The next round is Latvia and I really like that track so I’m looking forward to doing even better there.” 

Team-mate Lawrence was also pleased how the motos went after his performance on Saturday and is happy to have finally showed what he is capable of, with a career best fifth in moto two. “It was a good day. First moto I got a decent start, around 10-15 but then I made a mistake as I was going over a bump, letting off the gas and allowing the bike to stall. It took me a little time to start the bike again by which time I’d dropped down outside the top 20. I then put on a charge which got me up to 10th position, so I was pretty happy with how I was riding and made me look forward to race two. 

“Then in the second moto I got another good start on board my RM-Z250, which was running great all day. I moved up from around 10th and just put my head down, rode my own race, got my lines sorted and was really trying to play with the track and link some sections together. I ended up passing some good riders to finish fifth and I was really happy with how I was riding and how the Suzuki World MX2 team progressed throughout the weekend. From Saturday to Sunday it was a nice improvement and I hope to keep this level up for the upcoming GPs. This sixth overall was my best ever finish, combined with my best moto result so I have a lot of positives to takeaway and I’m excited to head to Latvia for the next round.” 

Valkenswaard also played host to the second round of the EMX250 championship where Zach Pichon was representing the Suzuki World team. In a class that features many riders with MX2 experience, the young French rider showed good speed, even if the results weren’t quite there. After a 16th yesterday, Pichon spoke about today’s second moto: “In the second race my start was quite good from the outside considering my gate pick. I was around 15-20th position, then 100 metres down the track, while I was on my line, one guy hit me from behind and I had a big crash. I was a little bit dazed, but still got back on the bike, but I was dead last. Gradually I was moving forward but then made a mistake on the inside of another rider and hit him and crashed a second time. I didn’t find a good rhythm the first 15 minutes but the last bit of the race I find some good lines and my laptimes were good. It’s a nice way to end but I didn’t score any points in this moto, so I want to try and change that for the next round.” 

General Manager Stefan Everts said: “It was a tough weekend for both of them, but everyone in the Suzuki World MX2 team kept pushing to improve and by the end of the day the RM-Z250 was working really well for Jeremy and Hunter. The changes that we made allowed Jeremy to push much more and you could see it in his riding in that second moto. He caught up to Pauls Jonass quite a lot at the end and that’s really positive and a really good thing for his confidence. The same really for Hunter, as the changes we made really gave him a chance to get a good result and get his spark back. He found his flow, finished fifth and you could tell his confidence is returning. At the end of the weekend it all turned out very positive for everyone.” 

It is testament to the character of this squad of riders that they didn’t let Saturday’s results affect them and instead used it as motivation to put in some really good moto scores today. Seewer is still very much in the hunt for the MX2 red plate and Lawrence is gaining confidence after his performance, so they both head to Latvia in a couple of weeks with high expectations. 

MX2 Moto 1: 1. Pauls Jonass (LAT, KTM), 35:37.548; 2. Julien Lieber (BEL, KTM), +0:03.476; 3. Thomas Covington (USA, Husqvarna), +0:36.928; 4. Jeremy Seewer (SUI, Suzuki World MX2), +0:44.764; 5. Brent Van doninck (BEL, Yamaha), +0:51.128; 6. Calvin Vlaanderen (NED, KTM), +0:56.409; 7. Benoit Paturel (FRA, Yamaha), +1:03.528; 8. Vsevolod Brylyakov (RUS, Kawasaki), +1:07.900; 9. Thomas Kjer Olsen (DEN, Husqvarna), +1:12.565; 10. Hunter Lawrence (AUS, Suzuki World MX2), +1:15.317; 

MX2 Moto 2: 1. Pauls Jonass (LAT, KTM), 34:09.329; 2. Jeremy Seewer (SUI, Suzuki World MX2), +0:04.491; 3. Brent Van doninck (BEL, Yamaha), +0:09.510; 4. Thomas Kjer Olsen (DEN, Husqvarna), +0:13.352; 5. Hunter Lawrence (AUS, Suzuki World MX2), +0:24.378; 6. Brian Hsu (GER, Husqvarna), +0:28.694; 7. Calvin Vlaanderen (NED, KTM), +0:31.049; 8. Petar Petrov (BUL, Kawasaki), +0:36.142; 9. Benoit Paturel (FRA, Yamaha), +0:36.387; 10. Brian Bogers (NED, KTM), +0:47.690; 

MX2 Overall: 1. Pauls Jonass (LAT, KTM), 50 points; 2. Jeremy Seewer (SUI, Suzuki World MX2), 40 p.; 3. Brent Van doninck (BEL, YAM), 36 p.; 4. Thomas Kjer Olsen (DEN, HUS), 30 p.; 5. Calvin Vlaanderen (NED, KTM), 29 p.; 6. Hunter Lawrence (AUS, Suzuki World MX2), 27 p.; 7. Benoit Paturel (FRA, YAM), 26 p.; 8. Petar Petrov (BUL, KAW), 22 p.; 9. Julien Lieber (BEL, KTM), 22 p.; 10. Thomas Covington (USA, HUS), 20 p.;

MX2 Points Standings: 1. Pauls Jonass (LAT, KTM), 242 points; 2. Jeremy Seewer (SUI, Suzuki World MX2), 223 p.; 3. Julien Lieber (BEL, KTM), 197 p.; 4. Thomas Kjer Olsen (DEN, HUS), 188 p.; 5. Benoit Paturel (FRA, YAM), 173 p.; 6. Brent Van doninck (BEL, YAM), 159 p.; 7. Thomas Covington (USA, HUS), 133 p.; 8. Vsevolod Brylyakov (RUS, KAW), 123 p.; 9. Jorge Prado Garcia (ESP, KTM), 121 p.; 10. Michele Cervellin (ITA, HON), 109 p.; 11. Calvin Vlaanderen (NED, KTM), 99 p.; 12. Samuele Bernardini (ITA, TM), 98 p.; 13. Darian Sanayei (USA, KAW), 90 p.; 14. Brian Bogers (NED, KTM), 89 p.; 15. Hunter Lawrence (AUS, Suzuki World MX2), 88 p.; 

EMX250 Race 1 Results: 1. Miro Sihvonen (FIN, KTM), 30:39.344; 2. Ruben Fernandez (ESP, Kawasaki), +0:03.333; 3. Nick Kouwenberg (NED, Yamaha), +0:11.367; 4. Morgan Lesiardo (ITA, KTM), +0:16.290; 5. Karlis Sabulis (LAT, Yamaha), +0:18.776; 6. Ken Bengtson (SWE, Yamaha), +0:20.638; 7. Mel Pocock (GBR, Husqvarna), +0:35.202; 8. Jere Haavisto (FIN, KTM), +0:37.629; 9. Alberto Forato (ITA, Honda), +0:39.798; 10. Nichlas Bjerregaard (DEN, Yamaha), +0:46.678; 11. Todd Kellett (GBR, Husqvarna), +0:47.560; 12. Jesper Jönsson (SWE, Husqvarna), +0:48.003; 13. Marshal Weltin (USA, Kawasaki), +0:52.665; 14. Brad Anderson (GBR, KTM), +0:56.898; 15. Jed Beaton (AUS, Honda), +0:44.769; 16. Zachary Pichon (FRA, Suzuki World EMX250), +1:01.097; 

EMX250 Race 2 Results: 1. Miro Sihvonen (FIN, KTM), 29:26.087; 2. Jago Geerts (BEL, KTM), +0:03.837; 3. Nick Kouwenberg (NED, Yamaha), +0:05.257; 4. Michael Eccles (GBR, Kawasaki), +0:15.062; 5. Mike Kras (NED, KTM), +0:22.491; 6. Simone Furlotti (ITA, Yamaha), +0:24.651; 7. Nichlas Bjerregaard (DEN, Yamaha), +0:25.054; 8. Marshal Weltin (USA, Kawasaki), +0:28.402; 9. Ken Bengtson (SWE, Yamaha), +0:31.777; 10. Morgan Lesiardo (ITA, KTM), +0:40.587; 31. Zachary Pichon (FRA, Suzuki World EMX250), +1:38.612;

EMX250 Overall: 1. Miro Sihvonen (FIN, KTM), 50 points; 2. Nick Kouwenberg (NED, YAM), 40 p.; 3. Morgan Lesiardo (ITA, KTM), 29 p.; 4. Ken Bengtson (SWE, YAM), 27 p.; 5. Nichlas Bjerregaard (DEN, YAM), 25 p.; 6. Mel Pocock (GBR, HUS), 23 p.; 7. Jago Geerts (BEL, KTM), 22 p.; 8. Ruben Fernandez (ESP, KAW), 22 p.; 9. Marshal Weltin (USA, KAW), 21 p.; 10. Michael Eccles (GBR, KAW), 18 p.; 23. Zachary Pichon (FRA, Suzuki World EMX250), 5 p.;

EMX250 Championship: 1. Miro Sihvonen (FIN, KTM), 90 points; 2. Morgan Lesiardo (ITA, KTM), 70 p.; 3. Simone Furlotti (ITA, YAM), 63 p.; 4. Nick Kouwenberg (NED, YAM), 63 p.; 5. Karlis Sabulis (LAT, YAM), 54 p.; 24. Zachary Pichon (FRA, Suzuki World EMX250), 14 p.; 

Valkenswaard MX2 Image Gallery: CLICK HERE FOR PHOTOS



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McElrath Wins in Salt Lake City As Troy Lee Designs/Red Bull/KTM Goes 1-2

Courtesy of TLD/Red Bull/KTM

SALT LAKE CITY, UT – April 23, 2017 – Troy Lee Designs/Red Bull/KTM’s Shane McElrath earned his third win of the season and was accompanied on the podium by teammate Mitchell Oldenburg in second, giving the team a memorable 1-2 result at the penultimate round of the Western Regional 250SX Class inside Rice-Eccles Stadium. The tight, technical track was a test for the riders and the KTM duo came out standing on the top two steps of the podium.

McElrath entered the night still nursing a hip injury, but he wasn’t going to let that take away his confidence going into the night. After a third-place finish in his heat, McElrath shot out to a great start in the main event where he settled in quickly into the runner-up spot. When the leader crashed out of the race, McElrath was right there to capitalize just before the halfway mark. For the remaining 13 laps, he stayed focused and kept his KTM on two wheels to finish the night with his third win of the season.

“Tonight seemed to be about staying up,” said McElrath. “It was one of those tracks that you couldn’t ride the line because it was so technical and precise. We work so hard and it’s just cool to see this (the 1-2 finish) happen. When I looked over at one point and saw Freckles (Oldenburg) in second, I was so pumped.”

Just one round after scoring a career-best third place in Seattle, Oldenburg topped that result with a second-place finish in Utah’s state capitol. In the main event, he got out of the gate well and came around the first lap in sixth. He steadily passed riders and settled into second on Lap 14, carrying that position all the way until the checkered flag where he was greeted by a thrilled and supportive McElarth.

“I can honestly say I wouldn’t be up here if it weren’t for Shane so being up on the podium together is unbelievable,” said Oldenburg. “I am so ecstatic to go 1-2. To back up my best finish from the last race is such a great feeling. I can’t wait until Vegas where we can try and do it again.”

The Western Regional 250SX riders will take a short break before returning for the final race of the season on May 6 at Sam Boyd Stadium in Las Vegas. The Eastern Regional 250SX will be back in action with Jordon Smith looking to keep the win-streak alive with Alex Martin making his return from injury at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

McElrath and Oldenburg looked sharp on top of the podium wearing the GP Air Quest Navy and Orange Racewear, which was accompanied by the SE4 Pinstripe Orange Helmet. See all of the 2017 gear sets and the 2017 Moto Helmets online and at your local TLD retailer.

250SX Class Main Event Results

1. Shane McElrath (KTM)
2. Mitchell Oldenburg (KTM)
3. Justin Hill (Kawasaki)
4. Martin Davalos (Husqvarna)
5. Jimmy Decotis (Honda)
6. Austin Forkner (Kawasaki)
7. Dan Reardon (Yamaha)
8. Hayden Mellross (Yamaha)
9. Kyle Chisholm (Honda)
10. Tyler Bowers (Yamaha)

250SX Class Points, After 8 of 9 Rounds

1. Justin Hill (Kawasaki), 180
2. Shane McElrath (KTM), 154
3. Aaron Plessinger (Yamaha), 143
4. Martin Davalos (Husqvarna), 142
5. James Decotis (Honda), 122
6. Austin Forkner (Kawasaki), 105
7. Dan Reardon (Yamaha), 96
8. Kyle Chisholm (Honda), 85
9. Cole Martinez (Yamaha), 73
10. Mitchell Oldenburg (KTM), 60

About Troy Lee Designs

For over 30 years, Troy Lee has been customizing helmets “For The World’s Fastest Racers.” TLD’s relentless commitment to creating products that exceed the cutting edge of style, design and quality, has earned them the reputation as an innovator in many different fields of racing. Troy Lee Designs has since expanded into a full force operation, offering a complete line of helmets, apparel and premium protection for off-road motorcycling and bicycling, sportswear and accessories, and operating the TLD supercross and motocross teams. Based in Corona, California, Troy Lee Designs has a global network of distributors.

About KTM

“READY TO RACE” for KTM, these three words are far more than a simple slogan. They stand for the entire company philosophy of developing vehicles that can without any modifications comprehensively assert themselves in any race. Direct from the dealer onto the track and into the battle for victory. Designers, engineers and riders are bound by a clear common denominator: an unconditional passion for motorcycles. The whole KTM family is a living example of this worldwide. Countless offroad World and European championship titles plus brilliant victories in the world’s toughest races (International Six Days Enduro, Dakar Rally, Erzbergrodeo, and many more) all speak for themselves. And KTM Supermotos, Naked Bikes, Superbikes and the X-Bow all demonstrate what an “orange” lead means on asphalt.

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Motorcycle Industry Council Board of Directors Elects New Leadership for Powersports Trade Association

Courtesy of Motorcycle Industry Council 

IRVINE, CA – April 19, 2017  – The Motorcycle Industry Council Board of Directors elected a new chair, vice chair and secretary/treasurer to help guide the industry as it looks to strengthen market expansion efforts. The board also approved a process to refine the industry’s strategic plan during its latest meeting.

Paul Vitrano, vice president of global government relations at Polaris Industries Inc., will serve as chair, succeeding Dennis McNeal, who retired in December as vice president of motorcycle operations at Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. McNeal, who was elected chair in 2014, also retired from the MIC board.

Chuck Boderman, vice president, Motorcycle Division at American Honda Motor Co., Inc., was named vice chair, and Jim Woodruff, chief operating officer at National Powersport Auctions, will serve as secretary/treasurer. Tim Buche will continue as president and chief executive officer.

“I am deeply honored to have the opportunity to serve the industry as MIC chair,” said Vitrano, who is also on the boards of the Motorcycle Safety Foundation, the Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle Association, the ATV Safety Institute, the National Motorcycle Safety Fund and the Right Rider Access Fund. “While we continue to face many challenges ahead, it is also a very exciting time as we find ways to expand our consumer base and work together on outreach and on building a strong community with the public and within the powersports industry.”

Paul Vitrano

Newly elected Vice Chair Boderman has served two years on the MIC Board and picks up the position from Jon-Erik Burleson, brand ambassador for Husqvarna Motorcycles.

“The MIC is an important organization where our industry comes together to work toward a common goal of expanding opportunities for our members and ultimately improving conditions for all powersports customers,” said Boderman, who has worked in the industry for more than 36 years. “During my prior two years on the board, I developed a deeper understanding and passion to work with my fellow industry members to better the powersports business. I am very pleased to have the opportunity to serve on the MIC Board as vice chair.”

Chuck Boderman

Woodruff, who takes the role of secretary/treasurer, has been with National Powersport Auctions for more than 15 years and had advised the MIC during its successful acquisition of the American International Motorcycle Expo (AIMExpo).

Jim Woodruff

Buche said that he and the new board want to increase engagement with both the MIC and AIMExpo among many groups, including members, dealerships, consumers and policymakers.

“Market expansion is a key component of the MIC’s strategic plan and we must increase the relevancy of motorcycling for the general public,” he said. “Our mainstream media efforts and AIMExpo’s live showcase help us reach potential riders and the dealers who will serve them. We also must increase government relations efforts and advocacy, at both the state and federal level, on behalf of our members and all riders out there.”

The Motorcycle Industry Council exists to preserve, protect and promote motorcycling through government relations, communications and media relations, statistics and research, aftermarket programs, AIMExpo, development of data communications standards, and activities surrounding technical and regulatory issues. As a not-for-profit, national industry association, the MIC seeks to support motorcyclists by representing manufacturers, distributors, dealers and retailers of motorcycles, scooters, ATVs, ROVs, motorcycle/ATV/ROV parts, accessories and related goods and services, and members of allied trades such as insurance, finance and investment companies, media companies and consultants.

The MIC is headquartered in Irvine, Calif., with a government relations office in metropolitan Washington, D.C. First called the MIC in 1970, the organization has been in operation since 1914. Visit the MIC at mic.org.

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ANDERSON FINISHES 3RD AT SALT LAKE CITY SX!

Courtesy of Husqvarna Motorcycles

The Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing team battled to top finishes as the 2017 AMA Supercross Series made its return to the high elevations of Rice Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City Utah.

 

Jason Anderson got a great start in his heat and immediately started battling in the second-place position. He slid back to third where he finished - earning a spot in the 450 main. He got an excellent start in the main and quickly moved into the top-five. It wasn’t long before he overtook the second-place spot and started charging. He was riding a smart race in second, moved back to third, and stayed steady for the remainder of the race to finish third. He is currently fourth overall in 450 rider point standings.

 

“I got a great start in the heat race with a third,” said Anderson. “I made some changes to my bike after that and ended up getting a great start in the main. I rode in third the rest of the race and felt pretty good."

 

Martin Davalos got a great start in his heat, took over the lead in the second lap, and held strong to take the win and earn a spot in the 250SX West main event. He started mid-pack in the main and quickly navigated into the top-10. He put in a solid ride and battled until the finish to earn fourth. He is currently fourth overall in 250SX West rider point standings. 

 

“Salt Lake City was good,” said Davalos. “I was pumped to come here because it’s kind of like Ecuador with the altitude. I felt really good throughout the day, and I seemed to ride well all day. My lap times were good and I was feeling confident. I was able to put in a good charge in the main event and make the pass for third in the last lap. Today was the best I’ve ridden all year."

 

Dean Wilson pulled a top-10 start in his heat and settled into the seventh-place position before charging up to fifth where he finished—just one spot out of qualifying position. He got a top-five start in the semi and immediately started battling for the lead. He stayed focus and made an impressive last-minute pass for the lead right before the finish line to take the win and qualify for the 450 main. He got a mid-pack start in the main and started putting in laps in 13th. He started moving his way steadily through the pack and cracked into the top-10 around the halfway mark. He kept it steady to earn another top-10 finish. He is currently 10th overall in 450 rider point standings.

 

“I felt like I rode well all day,” said Wilson. “I qualified fifth and had good speed. I was one spot out in the heat race, but had a good semi and got the win in that. For some reason my rear wheel sunk in the main right as I got off the gate, so I didn’t get a great start. I was in 9th but then made a silly mistake in the last lap and finished 10th. Other than that I came through the pack and was pushing hard. Overall, it was good."

 

The team will now make it’s way to East Rutherford, NJ for the penultimate round of the 2017 series, to be held next Saturday at MetLife Stadium. 

Salt Lake City Supercross Results:

250SX West Results:
1. Shane McElrath
2. Mitchell Oldenburg
3. Justin Hill
4. Martin Davalos – Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing

250SX West Rider Point Standings:
1. Justin Hill – 180 points
2. Shane McElrath – 154 points
3. Aaron Plessinger – 143 points
4. Martin Davalos – Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing – 142 points5. James Decotis – 122 points
6. Austin Forkner – 105 points
7. Dan Reardon – 96 points
8. Kyle Chisholm – 85 points
9. Cole Martinez – 73 points
10. Mitchell Oldenburg – 60 points

450 Results:
1. Eli Tomac
2. Ryan Dungey
3. Jason Anderson – Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing…
10. Dean Wilson – Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing

450 Rider Point Standings:
1. Eli Tomac – 319 points
2. Ryan Dungey – 316 points
3. Marvin Musquin – 270 points
4. Jason Anderson – Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing – 228 points5. Cole Seely – 211 points
6. Blake Baggett – 190 points
7. Davi Millsaps – 190 points
8. Broc Tickle – 167 points
9. Chad Reed – 158 points
10. Dean Wilson – Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing – 158 points

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ROCKSTAR ENERGY HUSQVARNA EARN TOP FIVE RESULTS AT ENDUROGP RND 2

Courtesy of Husqvarna Motorcycles

MCCANNEY, RAUCHENECKER, CHARLIER & HELLSTEN BATTLE EXTREME DUST IN SOUTHERN SPAIN

Antti Hellsten - Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing

Christophe Charlier – Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing

Danny McCanney – Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing

Pascal Rauchenecker – Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing

Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing team riders Danny McCanney, Pascal Rauchenecker and Christophe Charlier, together with stand-in rider Antti Hellsten, have successfully completed two hugely challenging days of racing at the EnduroGP of Spain. Among the driest conditions ever seen in the Enduro World Championship, Enduro 2 class rider Danny McCanney secured Husqvarna’s best result with a hard-fought third on day two. 

For EnduroGP class riders Christophe Charlier and Antti Hellsten it proved to be a difficult GP. Standing in for the injured Mathias Bellino, Hellsten, who won both days of the championship opening GP of Finland, battled his way to ninth on each day. Pushing a little too hard during the opening day’s competition, Charlier nevertheless gained further valuable enduro experience. Opting for a more calculated approach on day two the Frenchman jumped to fifth in class to earn his best result of the season to date. 

In the Enduro 2 class it was Danny McCanney who claimed Husqvarna’s best result, securing a hard-earned third place result on day two. Struggling to gel with the dry and unpredictable conditions on day one, Danny placed sixth before upping his pace on day two. Completing a strong opening lap, an all-out final motocross test performance saw the TE 250 rider finish five seconds ahead of team-mate Pascal Rauchenecker and on the podium for the first time in 2017. 

Like E2 classmate McCanney, Pascal Rauchenecker also improved his performance on day two – challenging for the podium before eventually claiming fourth. Down in 13th position at the end of the first lap on day one, Pascal worked hard to fight his way back to fifth at the end of the day. Determined to make further improvements on day two the FE 250 rider battled with team-mate McCanney to end the GP of Spain with highly respectable 5/4 results. 

Round three of the 2017 FIM EnduroGP World Championship takes place in Italy (Spoleto) on May 26-28. 

Antti Hellsten: “Things were certainly different here compared to the GP of Finland. I’ve really enjoyed it, but of course I hoped for stronger results. I have to say a huge thanks to the team for giving me the opportunity to race here in Spain, it’s been great to be a part of the world championship paddock again. I guess I can say I had a so, so weekend. I’m not happy with my result, but I finished both days and that is something. Coming from Finland I’ve spent months riding on frozen ground with spiked tyres, so we always knew that it would be tough here with my lack of ‘summer time’ riding. I did the best I could, enjoyed every minute of it, but my speed wasn’t quite what I hoped it would be.” 

Christophe Charlier: “I learned a lot this weekend. The conditions were not like anything I have ridden in before and on day one I was too aggressive on the special tests. Day two was much better as I found a good feeling immediately at the start of the day. This was only my third enduro race, with some very difficult parts to the transfer sections. Dealing with the rock climbs wasn’t easy for me, but I have a lot more confidence now knowing I can ride the technical sections. I’m pleased that I made a big improvement on day two. Now I know what I have to work on ahead of the GP of Italy.” 

Danny McCanney: “I’m not really sure why, but I just wasn’t able to ride like I know I can on day one. I felt good but the times just weren’t there. I spent some time looking at the test on Saturday night, figured out some better lines and things were much better on day two. Day two all came down to the final motocross test. I’d had a good opening lap and then pushed hard throughout the final lap, and went for it on the last test to get on the podium.” 

Pascal Rauchenecker: “It’s been a really tough weekend here in Spain. It didn't start like I hoped it would during the super test, which meant I was a little behind at the start of day one. I was 13th at the end of the first lap, but I managed to get faster during the day. On the last lap I started to put in some really good times and finished fifth, which I was pleased with considering my starting position. I started better on day two and was fighting for the podium all day with Danny. It’s a little disappointing to go home without a podium result but I’m happy enough. The conditions were so difficult, especially on the extreme test, but this is enduro.” 

Download all high-resolution images from the EnduroGP of Spain here. 

Results – 2017 FIM Enduro World Championship, Round 2 

Day 1 

EnduroGP 
1. Matthew Phillips (Sherco) 49:42.41; 2. Steve Holcombe (Beta) 49:44.83; 3. Nathan Watson (KTM) 50:11.83; 4. Christophe Nambotin (KTM) 50:13.22; 5. Loic Larrieu (Yamaha) 50:18.48… 9. Antti Hellsten (Husqvarna) 52:21.41… 11. Christophe Charlier (Husqvarna) 53:46.26 

Enduro 2 
1. Josep Garcia (KTM) 50:15.82; 2. Jamie McCanney (Yamaha) 50:31.18; 3. Eero Remes (TM) 50:55.68; 4. Jonathan Barragan (Gas Gas) 51:10.28; 5. Pascal Rauchenecker (Husqvarna) 51:18.96; 6. Danny McCanney (Husqvarna) 51:20.18; 7. Thomas Oldrati (Husqvarna) 51:35.45… 9. Henric Stigell (Husqvarna) 51:54.34 

Day 2 

EnduroGP 
1. Matthew Phillips (Sherco) 40:34.90; 2. Christophe Nambotin (KTM) 40:35.19; 3. Steve Holcombe (Beta) 40:36.07; 4. Loic Larrieu (Yamaha) 40:41.57; 5. Christophe Charlier (Husqvarna) 41:25.70… 9. Antti Hellsten (Husqvarna) 43:04.59 

Enduro 2 
1. Eero Remes (TM) 40:44.90; 2. Jamie McCanney (Yamaha) 41:17.91; 3. Danny McCanney (Husqvarna) 41:26.73; 4. Pascal Rauchenecker (Husqvarna) 41:31.78; 5. Josep Garcia (KTM) 41:37.56… 7. Thomas Oldrati (Husqvarna) 42:05.18… 13. Henric Stigell (Husqvarna) 43:00.20 

Championship Standings (After Round 2) 

EnduroGP 
1. Matthew Phillips (Sherco) 88pts; 2. Steve Holcombe (Beta) 80; 3. Antti Hellsten (Husqvarna) 74; 4. Loic Larrieu (Yamaha) 61; 5. Christophe Nambotin (KTM) 55… 8. Christophe Charlier (Husqvarna) 50; 9. Marko Tarkkala (Husqvarna) 38 

Enduro 2 
1. Eero Remes (TM) 115pts; 2. Josep Garcia (KTM) 104; 3. Jamie McCanney (Yamaha) 97; 4. Pascal Rauchenecker (Husqvarna) 83; 5. Henric Stigell (Husqvarna) 74; 6. Danny McCanney (Husqvarna) 64… 8. Thomas Oldrati (Husqvarna)… 27. Mikael Miettinen (Husqvarna) 2