Moto News Weekly | Stadium MX | SX4 | SX | Dakar | Flat Track | NB Cup

Moto News Weekly Wrap
January 20, 2021

What’s New:

• Clout wins 2021 Kennards Hire bLUcRU Coffs Harbour Stadium MX
• Josiah Natzke wins innaugural Michelin SX4
• Justin Barcia wins Houston AMA Supercross opener
• Kevin Benavides wins 2021 Dakar Rally
• Daniel Sanders top Australian finisher at 2021 Dakar Rally
• Andrew Houlihan conquers Dakar Rally with broken wrist
• Laia Sanz completes her 11th consecutive Dakar Rally
• Toni Bou to remain with Repsol Honda Team for three more years
• Rhys Budd joins Wilson & Rogers at Yamalube Yamaha
• FIM Enduro Vintage Trophy returns to Elba Island
• 2021 Speedway Championships postponed
• Full 2021 American Flat Track calendar unveiled
• Royal Enfield and Moto Anatomy extend AFT partnership
• 12-Round 2021 Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship announced
• 2020 North Brisbane Cup Report
• 2021 Racing Calendars

Clout wins 2021 Kennards Hire bLUcRU Coffs Harbour Stadium MX

The 12th running of the Coffs Harbour Stadium MX saw a record breaking 550 entrants for 2021, despite continuing COVID restrictions which limited spectators. The event is the largest motocross event of the year by entries and serves as a starting point for many rider’s MX season, offering the Pros a chance to meet sponsors and sign new deals, while intermediate and grassroot riders are also well represented.

Ben Blanchette – Stadium MX Event Co-ordinator

“The event is in its 12th season in 2021 and runs as a premier warm up for the Motocross Nationals, now being well known as the largest MX event in the country by rider entries, and held in sunny Coffs Harbour. We exceeded over 550 entrants this year, setting records… and the racing did not disappoint. We are backed by industry support at all levels and could not be happier with the past weekend’s outcome and that the MX season of 2021 has commenced. In Coffs Harbour we premiered the new MX3 Class (14-18yrs of age) that will feature nationally this year. This was one phenomenal battle with the top three guys battling for the maiden title in Australia.”

The highlight of the night was the return of Matt Moss from his five-year hiatus from the sport. Moss was riding a stock privateer Yamaha YZ450F but pushed CDR Yamaha Factory rider Luke Clout all night and secured a solid second place result with 64-points, ahead of Team Honda Racing factory rider Kirk Gibbs on 55.

The crowd were on their feet watching nine-time Australian Champion Moss, as yet not race fit, but still taking it to the current stock of factory-based riders and almost positioning himself for a win. Luke Clout set a fast pace from the get-go in tough technical track conditions to take the win with a perfect 75-points.

That was not to discount factory Gas Gas 450 rider Aaron Tanti, who was also a contender on a brand new stock 450 he received just the morning of the event. Tanti took the lead for a number of laps, before crashing and ended up riding the bent bike to fourth place overall, claiming 55-points like Gibbs.

Moto 1 in the Pro Open class saw Luke Clout take the opening win from Aaron Tanti and Matt Moss, with Jye Dickson and Kaleb Barham completing the top five. Honda’s Kirk Gibbs was sixth.

Moto 2 saw Clout again take the win, however Moss improved to second, with Gibbs moving into the top three. Dickson and Joel Evans completed the top five, while this time Tanti was regulated to sixth.

The final Moto saw Clout’s speed and consistency continue with another win, this time from Moss by just 4.204s, the smallest margin of the night, while Gibbs once again completed the top three, in front of Tanti and Dickson.

Pro Open Moto 1

Pro Open Moto 2

Pro Open Moto 3

Pro Open Overall

MX2

The MX2 class was also contested and won by Jesse Dobson who was solid all night, claiming the overall win by just two-points.

Jay Wilson came in second overall on 65-points and was the fastest rider in this class and would likely have taken the overall win apart from his crash in the sand section. As a result he had to settle for second place overall.

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Third place went to Rhys Budd who chased Dobson and Wilson closely. All three Yamaha-backed riders swept the podium in this class.

Jesse Dobson showed a great turn of speed to win the first of the Pro Lites Motos from Rhys Budd and Jace Cosford, with Jaxon Hadlow, Levi Rogers and Jay Wilson all battling for fourth through sixth, with the crash hampering Wilson’s efforts.

Wilson took the Moto 2 win by 2.336s from Budd, while Dobson came home in third. Rogers and Kaleb Barham were fourth and fifth respectively.

The third and final again saw Wilson take the win, this time from Dobson and Rogers, while Tyler Darby and Cosford completed the top five.

Pro Lite Results (MX2)

MX3

Rhyder Kingsford put in a dominant performance in the MX3 class, taking the opening moto win from Ben Novak and Tyler Collins, with Sienna Giudice and Connor Towill rounding out the top five.

Kingsford followed that up in Moto 2 with another win, with Novak 2.139s off the leader and Giudice in third, ahead of Cody Kilpatrick and Blake Waldon.

The third and final Moto saw Novak take the win this time heading Kingsford by 2.378s, with Waldon third, well clear of Kilpatrick and Cameron Steel.

As the day came to a close Kingsford was top MX3 rider on 72-points, to Novak on 69, while Kilpatrick was third overall, two points clear of fourth-placed Waldon.

MX3 Results

Other highlights of the event was to see the top level juniors race under lights – Junior 125 cc, Junior 125/250 cc, 85 cc and 65 cc riders participated, putting on a show of top level fast paced riding. Juniors Ryder Kingsford and Charlie Cannon in the girls class were standouts winning their age grouped categories.

Josiah Natzke wins innaugural Michelin SX4

“Michelin SX4 – I’m coming for ya” was the call Josiah Natzke made on the day of the inaugural SX4 event on Saturday 9 January 2021. Wanting redemption after being pipped at the post at the trial event in November, Bridgestone Kawasaki star Natzke was all class as he not only took the inaugural Michelin SX4 title but also managed to grab the Motul Lube Ladder and win three out of four of his heat races.

Natzke was in stellar form leading into the event and labelled his Michelin SX4 win as his favourite to date.

The best in the business were on show for all to see at Taupo Motocross Club in front of a packed crowd on Saturday. The event kicked off with introductory laps from all the riders alongside Michelin Juniors who were invited to ride and experience the pit lane alongside the professionals.

The Motul Lube Ladder was competitive with only half a second splitting the top four riders of Wyatt Chase, Cody Cooper, Campbell King and Kayne Lamont. That was until last competitor Natzke started his engine and came home with a lap time of 25.435 seconds, over one second faster than his nearest rival.

The NZ Natural Clothing Nitro Lane was a crowd favourite and kept the heat races tight with the top six riders finishing within three-points of each other.

Qualifying for the Semi Finals were first-time competitors Tommy Watts and Tyler Steiner, MX2 rider James Scott, nine-time MX1 NZ Champion Cody Cooper, Altherm JCR Yamaha rider Kayne Lamont, Campbell King, late comer Wyatt Chase and table topping Natzke.

After the two very tight Semi Finals, the Final saw Natzke line up against Altherm JCR Yamaha standout Kayne Lamont and Honda Racing Team’s Cody Cooper and James Scott. With Lamont taking an early lead a costly mistake saw Natzke capitalise on an inner line and there was no way of stopping the Hamilton man. The chocolates were his!

Michelin SX4 proved to be a crowd favourite with spectators travelling from around the country to experience the most recent innovation on the motocross calendar. The Rock’s Mike Garvey was on hand to keep fans engaged while they were given the chance to experience a hot lap in a Yamaha YXZ with Red Bull athlete Mad Mike Whiddett.

With families being a key component of the event, junior riders were given the chance to ride with the professionals on track thanks to Michelin. Dads grabbed their kids and competed in the NZ Natural Clothing Piggy Back race.

We found a new Michelin SX4 icon in #ChainsawMan and ticket holders were given an exclusive opportunity to ride the Michelin SX4 track on the Sunday morning post event. The food trucks, bar and Isuzu Taupo Bumper Party saw huge numbers throughout and nobody wanted the night to end.

Ben Townley

“Until next time! There is plenty to do in the wash up but we’ve got some big plans for Michelin SX4. We’re looking forward to working with all riders, sponsors and fans to see what needs tweaking, but you will most certainly see us going again in 2022 – stay tuned!”

Ben Townley’s summation of the event clearly shows the director’s intentions to keep the new innovative format going.

SX4 – Semi Final 1

SX4 – Semi Final 2

SX4 – Final

Justin Barcia wins Houston AMA Supercross opener

Justin Barcia got a great start in the 450 Main but Marvin Musquin gazumped him on the exit of turn one to take the early race lead. Not for long though as Musquin got Bam Bammed a few corners later and the Gas Gas rider then cleared out.

Also moving past Musquin in no time was Justin Brayton. Running under the Muc-Off banner for Melbourne based Yarrive Konsky’s team, Brayton was getting some quality air-time up front for their new sponsors.

A little further back Ken Roczen worked his way past Musquin and then Adam Cianciarulo, to move up to third place two-minutes into the race. A lap later Roczen made short work of Brayton to move up to second place.

Further back a slow-starting Tomac went down after battling with Vince Friese over seventh place. It didn’t get much better from there for Tomac, an ignominious start to the season for the defending champion saw the #1 Kawasaki only scoring ten-points from his eventual 13th place finish.

Roczen steadily reeled in Barcia and got close, but seemed to play a safe game rather than take too many risks challenging for the win. Roczen made a couple of thrusts but they were not determined enough to overcome Barcia.

Barcia made history by being the first rider in 25 years to win the opening round of the season for three years in a row. The last person to do so was Jeremy McGrath.

Justin Barcia – P1

“Kenny [Roczen] honestly pressured me so hard the whole race but I held it together, it was really awesome. I can’t thank the whole Troy Lee Designs/Red Bull/GASGAS Factory Racing team enough, that was an insane race! I’m glad I did the three-peat, that wasn’t the goal, but this is the first one of hopefully many more and I just want to be in the fight all year and not just a one-hit wonder.”

450 Main Results

450 Championship Points

250 Main

In the 250 Main Event RJ Hampshire scored the holeshot from Christian Craig and Jett Lawrence while the Kawasaki pairing of Jo Shimoda and Austin Forkner chased the trio hard from the start.

Austin Forkner moved up to fourth place as Nichols and Mosiman pushed their way past Shimoda. Forkner then started piling the pressure on Jett Lawrence but the Aussie youngster responded and managed to stretch away and actually progressed forward to close in on second placed RJ Hampshire.

A slide with nine-minutes remaining though affected Jett’s rhythm and he was then usurped by Forkner. Colt Nichols then also pounced to push Lawrence further back to fifth.

Austin Forkner swept past Hampshire for second place with six-minutes left on the shot clock but up front Christian Craig still held sway and now had a five-second buffer.

Christian Craig continued to dominate and stretched his lead further over the next couple of laps before backing off on the final lap to take victory by five-seconds over Forkner.

RJ Hampshire was looking strong in third place but went down two laps from the end and was passed by both Colt Nichols and Jett Lawrence.

Hampshire wasn’t the only one to make a mistake near the final juncture.  After looking rock solid for almost the entire first 15 minutes of the Main, Jett Lawrence had a stumble a lap from the end that cost him dearly. While challenging Colt Nichols for the podium the Aussie youngster went down and was relegated to sixth after being passed in the closing stages by Jo Shimoda and RJ Hampshire.

Christian Craig secures maximum points on his Star Yamaha debut to take the early lead in the series over Forkner and Nichols.

Christian Craig – P1

“Tonight, was a dream come true. It’s something I’ve literally been daydreaming about during my drive to the track or on my way to the gym. This just shows that it pays off. I knew it would. I believed in the program that we have, in the bike that we have, and that if I put in the work and I believed in everything that this would come true. I always believed in myself but not to the extent that I do now. I’m just thankful for everything, all the ups and downs that I’ve been through. It does feel good to come out here and win and repay the team for just believing in me. It’s only round one. We’ve got a lot more rounds to go. Let’s keep this ball rolling.”

Jett Lawrence – P6

“The first race day wasn’t too bad. There were a few mistakes that I wasn’t happy about, but I walked away without too much damage to my body. Practice ended up going really well; in the first qualifier I put a really good lap time down for P1, and then the second one I put another consistent one down, getting second behind [Christian] Craig. In the heat race I had a few small mistakes. I was excited for the first race and a little too energetic, but I ended up getting third. In the main event I was kind of playing it too safe and backed off too early and gave away what should’ve been a holeshot. I spent too much time behind another rider in the first half and had some other people pass me. I ended up finding a pretty good flow at the end and was fourth after RJ [Hampshire] went down. I tried to make another pass with a lot of charging, but that didn’t go as planned, as too much front brake and a wrong line in the turn ended up flicking me. I got up fairly quick, but then someone came and hit me again, knocking me back down. I ended up getting sixth, which isn’t terrible, but not what I wanted but I’m still fairly happy with it.”

250 Main Results

250 Championship Standings

Kevin Benavides wins 2021 Dakar Rally

Monster Energy Honda Team has done it again at the 2021 Dakar Rally, snatching the overall win with a one-two finish. Thirteen gruelling days came to a close in Jeddah on the shores of the Red Sea, with Kevin Benavides emerging the winner of the 2021 Dakar Rally and team-mate Ricky Brabec taking second place overall. The American Monster Energy Honda Team rider won the final special of the rally in an intense 202-kilometre thriller.

In contention was Sam Sunderland, however winning stage 11, left Sam the unenviable task of opening the 12th and final timed special. Trailing rally leader Kevin Benavides by five minutes going into the stage, the 2017 Dakar winner had no option but to push as hard as he dared during the final 200 km as he raced against the clock. Unfortunately, a small error that resulted in him losing almost 10 minutes ended Sunderland’s charge for the win. Despite the set-back, Sam safely arrived at the finish to claim an impressive third place overall. Although disappointed not to have secured a second career win for himself and KTM, the Brit was happy with how his race had gone.

Contesting only his second ever cross-country rally, Daniel Sanders came into his first Dakar as a true rookie. The KTM Factory Racing junior rider impressed right from the start however, demonstrating incredible speed on the opening Prologue. From there, Sanders went on to mix it with the established Dakar specialists, claiming no fewer than five top-five stage results and showed great maturity over the entire event.

Completing the top five for 2021 was Skyler Howes.

Kevin Benavides – P1

“The final stage of this Dakar 2021 was very difficult: I started third so I thought that it would be easier, but it was not like that. At kilometre 50 all the riders in front got lost, so I began to open the track. The stage has been very difficult to navigate so I stayed very focused on doing things well. I gave everything to achieve this win which is a dream come true for me. I am very happy and thrilled about it. I crossed the finish-line thinking about many things, with great emotions… Paulo Gonçalves also crossed with me… It was a great moment. I am really pleased and I’m living this moment. I want to thank the whole team, starting with my mechanics, for the great job they have all done this difficult year. Thanks also to Honda for giving us such a great bike which made it possible to achieve the dream.”

Ricky Brabec – P2

“We are back in Jeddah. Kevin and I did a great job. The whole team did a great job. It was unfortunate for Joan and Nacho. I tried to make a push to try and get Kevin seven minutes ahead, but unfortunately I failed that. I had to settle for the number two spot. All in all it was a great rally. My mentor and my assistant Kendall, my mechanic Eric did a great job and kept Nacho and I focused and in one piece. Thank you guys once again, and hopefully next year we’ll be able to take the number one back on this bike.”

Sam Sunderland – P3

“I did my best over the whole rally, so I can’t be too disappointed, I guess. It was always going to be hard setting off first this morning and I knew I had to push hard to make up those minutes. I couldn’t find one waypoint early on in the dunes and lost far too much time trying to find it. There is always a fine balance and when you push your speed, the navigation can lose out. I’m super happy as I know I gave it my all. The other guys did a great job and after what was such a tough event with several crashes and people being forced to retire with technical issues, I’m glad to be here safe at the finish line and in third place. I honestly think that has been one of the toughest races I have ever done – the pace at the top is so high, we’re having to fight every single day and there is no time to relax. Congratulations to all those who finished and get well soon to those who crashed out.”

Daniel Sanders – P4

“All-in-all it’s been a pretty perfect first Dakar for me. It started off with a good Prologue and then day-by-day I learned a little more and gained as much experience as possible. I’m really pleased to come away with fourth overall and as first rookie, so that’s cool. I’ve only really spent four months on the KTM rally bike, learning as much as I can for this, so I can’t thank Jordi and the whole team enough for all the hard work they have done and the faith they put in me. It’s pretty much what I expected as I came into the race ready for it to be really tough. The first few days weren’t so bad – yeah, the navigation was tricky, but it wasn’t till about day five or six that we had some hugely physical stages in the dunes. That, and after a couple of crashes, my body really started to hurt. It’s all been worth it though, I’m over the moon with my result and glad I’ve been able to gather all the information together and come away with a strong finish. It’s been the toughest race I’ve ever done, but I’m already looking forward to the next one!”

2021 Dakar Rally Overall Standings

Daniel Sanders top Australian at 2021 Dakar Rally

Victoria’s Daniel Sanders achieved an astonishing result at this year’s Dakar Rally, claiming fourth place as top rookie aboard his KTM Factory Racing 450 Rally.

An AORC champion and outright ISDE winner in 2019, plus a Hattah Desert Race under his belt in 2018, the Australian had signalled his wish to expand his riding further by entering the 2020 Andalucia Rally to qualify for Dakar, where he won Stage Four and finished 11th overall.

Daniel Sanders

“After winning the ISDE (International six-day enduro), I was starting to look for something new; especially with the impact Covid had back home. Myself, KTM and my management discussed options, and it was either compete in the GNCC series in the United States, or make a start in rally racing. Austria heard of my desire to compete in rally and put together a deal for me with KTM. Once the deal was done, I headed to Europe and the Middle East and trained for four months before lining up for this event.”

Two of the biggest differences for the enduro expat involved a totally new machine in a rally spec bike, along with having to navigate for yourself when out in the desert; something that cost him time early in the piece.

Daniel Sanders

“Usually, you go from a motocross bike to an enduro bike and its fairly easy to adapt. This was a totally new bike, so four months wasn’t a lot of time to become accustomed to it. Then you throw in navigation; you’re trying to read your road map while travelling at 150km/h, so that can have massive consequences.”

For the 2021 event, there was no pressure put on the rookie by the team, as it was somewhat of a trial run to test whether this was a discipline he could fare well in. Despite the navigation issues, a couple crashes that resulted in stitches and even a bee sting, Sanders remarkably finished 38 minutes off seasoned veteran Factory Honda rider Kevin Benavides.

Daniel Sanders

“Hopefully this puts me on the map for the future. I really enjoyed myself and am stoked to come away with fourth place on debut, I really believe it’s only upwards from here. With more practise and time on the bike I think we can accomplish good things.”

Racing one of the most prestigious races in the world requires an abundance of support, and Sanders maintains that it wouldn’t have been possible without KTM Factory Racing, Fox Racing Australia, Simford Welding, POD Active, Koda Nutrition, Melbourne Truck and Vans, Wild Company and Sanders Apples.

At the time of writing Daniel Sanders was still stranded overseas, with his flight back to Australia having been cancelled.
He shared the following on social media:

“Made it back to Dubai, my flight has been cancelled on the 21st. Just as I wanted to come home, Australia cuts all flights back. Trying to get on a flight on the 18th & 19th with Emirates, currently on waiting list… If anyone knows a way home, let me know please.”

Last week Emirates announced they would not fly into or out of Sydney, Brisbane, or Melbourne from January 19, stating only ‘operational reasons’.

Andrew Houlihan conquers Dakar Rally with broken wrist

While many competitors his age are considering retirement, 51-year-old Andrew Houlihan has just completed the hardest of them all – the Dakar Rally.

Just finishing is an achievement in itself, as more than 40 per cent of entrants fail. Andrew, who rides a KTM 450RFR for the Coca-Cola Racing/Nomadas Adventure squad, was one of four Australians accepted for the 2021 event that started January 3.

High profile rider and two-time winner Toby Price was one of them, but was eliminated with a broken collarbone after a crash in Stage 9. Daniel Sanders and Michael Burgess like Andrew were all rookies.

Houlihan fractured the scaphoid in his right wrist in a fall on day 3, and rode with his wrist heavily strapped and in intense pain for the rest of the rally, sharing, “It became a mental and physical challenge every single day. There were times when I wanted to give up. Just one waypoint, one day at a time.”

With the help and support from the team’s trainer and physio, the on-site doctor, pain relief and his sheer determination, Houlihan made it to the finish line in Jeddah. After 12 days of intense competition he crossed the line with his teammate, Mexican rider Pablo Guillen.

“I wanted something difficult and Dakar delivered”, says Andrew Houlihan. “I ended up in 50th place which I’m very happy with, and rolling up on that finisher’s podium was something I’ll never forget. It’s an amazing feeling.”

After great success in local competition, completing the Dakar Rally became a dream of Andrew’s when he entered the international rally scene in 2018.

But a crash in his first international event in Greece almost claimed his life. The list of injuries was long – broken neck, nine broken ribs, punctured lung, broken sternum, broken collarbone, badly broken scapula, broken hand, broken nose and a badly damaged eye socket.

To date he’s gone through 16 surgeries and his complete recovery took close to two-years, “There’s not much in my body that isn’t titanium,” he jokes. “Travelling through airports is always a problem for me.”

Now that he’s achieved his long standing goal, Houlihan says he’s already talking to the team about what’s next. “If there’s a book to be written”, he says, “There’s still a few chapters to go yet!”

Laia Sanz completes her 11th consecutive Dakar Rally

Adding another astonishing chapter to her remarkable career, GASGAS Factory Racing’s Laia Sanz has today successfully completed her 11th consecutive Dakar Rally. Saving her best until last by claiming 17th on the final stage, Laia not only brought the super-challenging event to an emotional and positive close but again underlined her position as a true Dakar legend.

Laia Sanz

“I’m just super happy to finish. It wasn’t that long ago that we didn’t know if we would even be here, so to ride up onto the podium at the finish, yeah, it’s just incredible. With what has been happening in the world this year it makes this one a little more special. My approach to the rally worked for me, riding a safe and manageable pace and I just wanted to reach the finish. I felt really good after the rest day so I could push a little more and ended the rally strong. My team has been amazing. Supporting me the whole time and my bike was perfect all race. So, thanks to them I’m so happy to complete another Dakar!”

The 2021 Dakar Rally came to a close today with a relatively short 200-kilometer special. Setting off from Yanbu and leading to the finish line in Jeddah, it was far from an easy stage. Loaded with technical obstacles from the start, it provided one last demanding test for all competitors.

Finishing this year’s Dakar proved to be challenging for all riders, very much including Laia. With the goal of simply completing this year’s rally, having had very little time to properly prepare for the event after contracting Lyme Disease last summer, the Spanish ace did exactly what she set out to achieve. Opting for a steady pace through the opening week, Laia reached the mid-race rest day without any major mistakes.

After a much-needed day of recovery and relative relaxation, Laia felt much more confident in her physical ability to complete the event. Picking up her pace as the end of the rally drew nearer, the ‘Queen of the Desert’ went on to deliver her very best stage result on the final day of racing, earning a 17th place finish. Following a highly positive end to her Dakar, Sanz moved up to 17th in the final standings.

Jordi Viladoms – GASGAS Rally Team Manager

“It’s just amazing for Laia to complete another Dakar Rally. Coming back from her illness last year, we really didn’t know what to expect and the plan was to take it day by day. Completing the rally, her finishing record is now 11 in a row, a truly remarkable achievement. This year was an especially tough Dakar, one of the toughest for quite some time but every day she fought hard. I’m really proud of her for what she has achieved.”

2021 Speedway Championships postponed

FIM Oceania, Motorcycling Australia and Gillman Speedway have announced the postponement of the 2021 FIM Oceania Speedway Championship, Australian Speedway Under-21 Championship, and Australian Under-16 250cc Championship due to uncertainly around COVID-19 border restrictions.

The Championships were to be held on January 29 and 30 at South Australia’s Gillman Speedway, however because current border restrictions and their impact on event personnel, the tough decision has been made to postpone the two-day extravaganza.

As many of the competitors will be heading overseas for Northern Hemispheres speedway competition in February, FIM Oceania have postponed the FIM Oceania Championship until November with a date to be confirmed.

Motorcycling Australia will continue to work with Gillman Speedway to find alternative dates to run the Under 21 and Under 16 250cc Championship in the second half of 2021.

FIM Oceania and Motorcycling Australia thanked Gillman Speedway for their significant work in preparing for these Championships and fans and riders for their understanding. Further event details will be announced in the coming months.

Toni Bou to remain with Repsol Honda Team for three more years

The 28-time Trial World Champion has extended the ongoing relationship with Repsol Honda Team for a further three years, by which time he will have completed some eighteen years with the team. Toni Bou’s relationship with Honda began back in 2007 and has been so fruitful that both parties jumped at the chance to extend the current contractual agreement – originally due to expire in 2021 – and which will see the Trial legend continue with the squad three more years.

Over these fourteen years with Repsol Honda Team, Toni Bou has broken every existing record in the Trial discipline. He has conquered 28 world titles (14 indoor, 14 outdoor), with 118 outdoor and 67 indoor victories and 11 Spanish championship titles, among his many achievements.

Toni Bou

“I am super happy with this news. I have Honda to thank for placing their trust in me. It is a great team and a fantastic alliance, in which we have achieved so much success and, in difficult moments like these, it makes me proud that they have shown such confidence in me. Renewing for three years more is a reward for my career and also for the great work we have done together over these years. I hope I can stay here for many more years; it is my home, where I hope nothing will ever change.”

Yoshishige Nomura – HRC President

“I am pleased that Toni Bou will continue to race for the Repsol Honda Team next year and beyond. Winning 28 consecutive championships is an astounding achievement. Some years he had to battle with injury, but still won, a show of his unparalleled determination to win the title. Maintaining his mental, skill and physical condition at the top level is also no easy task, and I would like to thank him with all my sincerity. HRC will continue to provide him with the best bike and team to help him keep on winning.”

Rhys Budd joins Wilson & Rogers at Yamalube Yamaha

The Yamalube Yamaha Racing team has expanded for the 2021 motocross and supercross season, and will see Rhys Budd join the fold and will ride alongside Jay Wilson and Levi Rogers, contesting the MX2 championships.

Budd, the talented and hard-working Sydney based rider, who campaigned on a Yamaha during the 2020 season, captured the eyes of Yamalube Yamaha Team with his dedication and work ethic and will now get his chance at a team ride on the big stage in 2021.

Mike Ward – Yamalube Yamaha Team

“I have watched Rhys closely over the past 12-18 months and I admire how he goes about his racing. He puts in both on and off the bike and has shown good skills at motocross and supercross and he is a welcome addition to our team. We look forward to working closely with Rhys and assisting him to the next level in his career and take some of the financial pressure off him and his family so he can dedicate himself 100% to racing.”

Rhys had his first hit out with the team at the Coffs Harbour Stadium Motocross event and finished on the podium in the MX2 class but will now get to work as his focus shifts to the up coming Pro MX Championship starting in April.

Rhys Budd

“It was awesome to get the offer to race with the Yamalube Yamaha Team for the 2021 season and I will be doing everything I can to reward them for this opportunity. I have seen how the team operates and even last year when I was in need of assistance at an event, they stepped up and helped out, so I know I’m in good hands. It will also enable me to dedicate more time to riding and training and I’m more motivated then ever to make this season my best yet. I look forward to riding as often as I can with Jay and Levi and working together to make us all fitter and faster. I can’t wait to get stuck into a big preseason with the team and lean on them to help bring out the best in me.”

Wilson, Rogers and Budd will attended some local races in Queensland and New South Wales before the start of the eight round ProMX championship starting in April.

FIM Enduro Vintage Trophy returns to Elba Island

Forty years after the triumph of the legendary Italian Red Helmets during the FIM International Six Days Enduro (ISDE) organised on Elba Island in 1981, history will repeat itself in the same location. The International Motorcycle Federation (FIM) in collaboration with the Italian Motorcycle Federation (FMI), has entrusted the organisation of the FIM Enduro Vintage Trophy to the Moto Club Isola d’Elba, which will be held from 20 to 23 October in 2021.

The FMI Working Group made up of Franco Gualdi (Enduro Committee Coordinator), Francesco Mazzoleni (Regularity Manager of the Vintage Motorcycle Committee) and Paolo Buratti (Race Director) will support the organising committee, chaired by Daniele Anichini.

For the first time the FIM Enduro Vintage Trophy will take place separately from the FIM ISDE that is contested on modern motorcycles, and which is also scheduled to take place in Italy in Rivanazzano Terme from August 30 to September 4.

Giovanni Copioli – FMI President

“After the victory of the Italian team in Portugal in 2019, the meeting on the Island of Elba will certainly be unmissable. The FIM Enduro Vintage Trophy will not take place within the normal ISDE framework alongside the modern motorcycles as it has been until today, but it will be an event in all respects given the media and sporting importance it deserves. The scenario of the island of Elba evokes great memories for us Italian fans and will also guarantee fun and a good level of challenges thanks to the organisation of the local Moto Club. I thank the International Motorcycle Federation, who once again gave all their confidence to Italy and the FMI by entrusting us to deliver another high-level competition. We are committed to respecting all the health regulations necessary to safely welcome the many expected participants.”

The 2021 FIM Enduro Vintage Trophy will include the Vintage Veterans Trophy Team competition for national teams. Each team will be composed of three riders aged at least 50 and who have been nominated by their respective federations.

Plus a Vintage Silver Vase Club team competition for club teams. Each team will be made up of three riders aged at least 35.

There will be four classes: A (motorcycles built up until 1975, 2 Strokes), B (motorcycles built up until 1975, 4 Strokes), C (motorcycles manufactured up until 1980), X (motorcycles manufactured up until 1986). In the Vintage Veterans Trophy team and in the Vintage Silver Vase Club team, each team must be represented in at least two of the classes A, B, C.

Jorge Viegas – FIM President

“The organisation of the FIM Enduro Vintage Trophy outside the FIM ISDE will allow the development of this Enduro competition for classic motorcycles first introduced in 2016, during the Six Days which took place in Navarra, Spain. The FIM is delighted that the FMI and the Moto Club Isola d’Elba have accepted to organise the 2021 edition which will bring together a greater number of fans of classic Enduro motorcycles from 1975 to 1986 and 50cc to 250cc. We really hope that this unique competition will gather international media and fans for what will be an unforgettable 2021 edition. See you from October 20 to 23 on the Island of Elba!”

Full 2021 American Flat Track calendar unveiled

Progressive American Flat Track has released its 17-event race schedule for the 2021 season. The season will launch with a reprise of the Volusia Half-Mile I & II doubleheader on Friday, March 12 and Saturday, March 13 during Daytona Bike Week and will culminate at the racing mecca of Charlotte Motor Speedway on October 8.

Michael Lock – Progressive American Flat Track CEO

“The Progressive American Flat Track schedule for 2021 has been eagerly and patiently awaited by everyone associated with the sport. We are delighted to be able to welcome back to the series some iconic venues, complementing the well established fan favorites across the country.”

After a 2020 kickoff featuring an AFT Singles battle for the record books, Progressive AFT is thrilled to return to Volusia Speedway for another back-to-back exhibition of season-opening race action. Progressive AFT will not be racing at Daytona International Speedway during its 2021 season, but looks forward to returning in upcoming seasons.

New to 2021 is Progressive AFT’s premiere event at Atlanta Motor Speedway. One of two TT events for 2021, the inaugural Atlanta Super TT will be an event unlike any other on the calendar, with a custom-designed TT track built inside one of the country’s premier sports entertainment facilities.

A long-standing staple to the circuit, Progressive AFT roars back into the Lonestar State on Saturday, May 22 for the return of the Texas Half-Mile at Texas Motor Speedway. A particularly exciting weekend at TMS, the Texas Half-Mile will run in conjunction with a soon-to-be-announced motorcycle festival that will be a destination for two-wheeled enthusiasts from all across the nation.

There are multiple historic favorites making their return to the circuit after popular demand. After nearly a decade and a half away, Progressive AFT will be bringing the thunder back to Dirt Oval Route 66 for the Chicago Half-Mile in Joliet, Ill. on Saturday, May 29 during Memorial Day Weekend festivities.

Fans can also mark their calendars for the OKC Mile I & II, a mid-June doubleheader at Remington Park. A consistently sold-out race, this Father’s Day weekend doubleheader will certainly be an unmissable event for any race fan.

One of the longest-running races on the schedule, the Lima Half-Mile will once again draw sold-out crowds to Allen County Fairgrounds on Saturday, June 26.

2015 was the last time Progressive AFT put on a show for its diehard fans in DuQuoin, Ill. 2021 brings back the DuQuoin Mile on Saturday, July 17. Winner of 2015 Bryan Smith and second place finisher Jared Mees will take to the track in hopes of defending their reign over a circuit many of their competitors have yet to race upon.

Port Royal Speedway, a venue with deep roots in dirt track racing, welcomes Progressive AFT for its first event – the Port Royal Half-Mile – in Port Royal, Penn. on Saturday, July 24.

The Series will continue its run in the northeast with the New York Short Track at Weedsport Speedway on Saturday, August 14.

The Peoria TT, a race with true historical significance, returns on Saturday, August 21 bringing back the opportunity to score one of the most coveted victories for riders in Progressive AFT competition.

Additionally, the famed Springfield Mile will once again run as a back-to-back Labor Day Weekend doubleheader, providing fans the unique opportunity to see rivalries unfold over two-days of the fastest dirt track racing in the world.

A season-long battle for championship rights will close on Friday, October 8 in the sanctuary of American motorsports, Charlotte, North Carolina with the finale Charlotte Half-Mile. This event will begin an epic race weekend as the NASCAR Cup Series takes to the track at Charlotte Motor Speedway the following Sunday.

Progressive AFT will continue to implement its precautionary race-day procedures and COVID-19 safety protocol. These guidelines will continue to be examined and updated to follow specific guidelines set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and local event area authorities.

2021 Progressive American Flat Track calendar

Royal Enfield and Moto Anatomy extend AFT partnership

Royal Enfield have announced that Johnny Lewis’ Moto Anatomy organisation will continue to campaign the Twins FT in Progressive American Flat Track (AFT) through 2021. After the program’s successful first season, which saw Lewis win during the Progressive AFT Finale at DAYTONA, the team will continue developing the Twins FT package for the AFT Production Twins class. Veteran flat track crew chief, former team owner and tuner David Lloyd will join Lewis and add depth and experience to the Moto Anatomy x Royal Enfield team.

Lewis and Royal Enfield announced the Moto Anatomy x Royal Enfield team in early 2020, with the intention of developing the Twin FT for AFT’s Production Twins class. The motorcycle was created in conjunction with Royal Enfield’s technical partner Harris Performance, a renowned road racing chassis builder in the U.K. Despite the late start to the AFT season, Lewis and Royal Enfield immediately achieved competitive results with a relatively untested platform. By the conclusion of the season, the Moto Anatomy x Royal Enfield team found its stride, finishing first and second respectively during the AFT Finale I and II in Daytona.

Lewis recently completed the Progressive AFT Dunlop Tire Test at the Volusia Half-Mile as the team continues to gather critical data for the 2021 season. Lewis was able to complete more than 100 laps over the course of the two-day test with a new motor package. Decorated flat track team owner and crew chief David Lloyd will assist Lewis in 2021, as the team looks to further develop the Twins FT package. Lloyd brings more than 35 years of professional racing experience to the team and has developed competitive packages to multiple manufacturers.

Johnny Lewis – Moto Anatomy x Royal Enfield Team Owner

“Our results in 2020 proved that we have the package to be a competitive team in the AFT Production Twins class. I’m looking forward to building our relationship further with Royal Enfield. Now that the team’s future has been secured, it’s time to get to work. From top to bottom, the support from Royal Enfield has been fantastic and I’m looking forward to delivering more results for Royal Enfield in 2021.”

Lewis will continue development on the Twins FT at his Center Hill, Fla facility in the lead-up to the yet-to-be-announced Progressive AFT season opener.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hqyANjgFw6k

Click for Episode 2; Episode 3; and Episode 4.

12-Round 2021 Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship announced

MX Sports Pro Racing has announced the 12-round schedule for the upcoming 2021 Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing. As the sport continues to navigate the ongoing battle against the COVID-19 pandemic this summer’s racing calendar will welcome the return of some of the most iconic venues in American motocross, with spectator attendance anticipated at every event.

Roy Janson – Managing Director at MX Sports Pro Racing

“The 2021 schedule has been developed through a collective effort alongside all of our event organizers, and we’re thrilled to see such legendary venues back on the calendar. The outlook surrounding the fight to eradicate COVID-19 has provided a sense of optimism amongst our group, which has us hopeful to welcome spectators at all the races while also allowing nearly every one of our events to remain on their traditional dates. Safety remains paramount in our efforts to host a successful season and we will continuously monitor all national, state, and local guidelines in an effort to ensure the well-being of our fans, competitors, and series personnel. While that may require some level of restriction or limited capacity, it will be in the best interest of all parties.”

The off-road racing series will visit 10 different states on the journey to crown a pair of national champions, kicking things off on Memorial Day Weekend in the heart of the motocross industry, Southern California. By moving the start of the season to the holiday festivities, competitors will receive a full three weeks of preparation from the conclusion of the AMA Supercross season, which will help ensure that all riders are healthy and at the top of their game for the first gate drop of the summer.

After the opening round the championship will crisscross the country, making highly anticipated returns to venues like High Point Raceway, The Wick 338, Washougal MX Park, Unadilla MX, and Budds Creek Motocross Park before culminating with the season finale on September 11 at Hangtown, the oldest event in American motocross. Along the way, the series will observe four off weekends, further reducing the physical demands of the racers over the course of 29 total events between January and September.

Davey Coombs – President of MX Sports Pro Racing

“This is the most prestigious championship in all of motocross and we want to make sure our competitors have the opportunity to be at their best each and every weekend. We’ve listened to the challenges they face over the course of a season and have determined that expanding the overall breadth of the 2021 schedule will ultimately benefit the competitiveness on the racetrack, to which our audience will hopefully be rewarded with compelling title fights in both the 450 Class and 250 Class. Passion has and continues to define the legacy of the Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship. From our incredibly loyal fan base to the fearless racers who lay it all on the line in pursuit of victory, there is something truly special about a summer of American motocros. On the heels of a difficult year, the return of our most beloved venues and the expectation to welcome fans back to the race means the 2021 season is poised to rejuvenate that passion that has made this the most storied motocross series on the planet.”

Defending titleholders Zach Osborne and Dylan Ferrandis will headline a decorated contingent of international talent that will go bar-to-bar over the course of 24 motos across both the 450 Class and 250 Class, battling one another as well as Mother Nature in one of motorsports’ most challenging championships. The most coveted titles in motocross await, as the Edison Dye Cup (450 Class) and Gary Jones Cup (250 Class) carry a legacy that spans five decades.

2021 Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship

2020 North Brisbane Cup Report

The North Brisbane Cup had originally been slated for December 12 but bad weather forecasts had forced the North Brisbane Junior Motorcycle Club to postpone the event which was then subsequently rescheduled for January 16.

A recent rash of COVID-19 cases in Queensland also loomed as another threat in the lead up to the event but it finally got underway today under clear skies at the Northgate venue.  The COVID-19 scare had however forced some riders to abandon their plans to race at the event. That included 2019 Australian Superbike Champion Troy Herfoss – if he raced he would have to self-quarantine ahead of heading to Victoria for Superbike testing. With his wife Emily expecting soon, that could lead him into having to stay home if she went into labour.

Herfoss would have been a certain contender for top honours but in his absence some of Australia’s finest exponents of Dirt Track joined riders that were also having a one-off return to their dirt track roots.

Factory Ducati MotoGP rider Jack Miller is the highest profile rider in the field and is joined at the track by fellow road race experts Josh Hook and Billy van Eerde. All three of those riders regularly spend their year racing on the tarmac circuits of Europe while living in Andorra, but while back in Australia generally do most of their riding on the dirt. They might be more well known as road racers but all originally earned their motorcycle racing stripes on the dirt tracks of Queensland and New South Wales.

The road race stars are going up against the likes Jarred Brook, Dale Borlase, and some of Queensland’s best up and comers like Cyshan Weale and Seth Qualichefski today.

In a full schedule of classes all categories are filled with masses of talent. The junior ranks boasts some hard chargers including Harrison Voight, another young dirt tracker that is already making a name for himself on the tarmac.

Each race is started using classic speedway tapes on the main straight running long track for the first lap then a front dog-leg that is proving to be a very exciting transition in what is an American TT style course with both front and back dog-legs. The surface looks as though it could get quite sketchy as the programme progresses into the night.  There are also clouds gathering and the threat of thunderstorms…

The first round has just concluded with lots of hard charging in all classes.  Jarred Brook was quickest ahead of Jack Miller, Seth Qualichefski, Kye Thomson and Billy van Eerde in the early heats.

The later sessions commenced with great racing in all classes. The juniors were riding hard and being inspired by the senior riders.

The 33 riders in the Pro 450 and Open MX were absolutely on fire. Lead changes and stellar rides from Billy Van Eerde, Kye Thomson, Jarred Brook and Jack Miller.

The schedule was on track until mid-afternoon when the weather pushed in from the south-west and then at 1530 the heavens opened. Close to 30 mm of rain fell in 30 minutes. Predictably, this led to large bodies of water in numerous parts of the track. The team at North Brisbane led by Andrew Brook (President) worked feverishly to remedy the situation.

Bobcats started digging drainage trenches at key locations around the track. Pumps were brought out to try and pump the deepest water off the track.  People were even scooping up water off the track in an attempt to get the event back on track.

It wasn’t until 1645 that the rider and support crew were assembled to present a plan to move forward with the event. The front dog-leg was deemed too sketchy to ride and the decision was made to run long-track on the front, and still use the back dog-leg.

The quad bikers were asked to head out and do a few laps and then report on how they found the track condition. They also helped displace water off the track.

After the quads had been out the track went to effectively a long track event. As the back dogleg was subsequently deemed unusable.

The MX Open riders heat one came out with Ben Montgomery, Cyshan Weale and Seth Qualischefski tussling up front. The second heat saw Jack Miller, Dale Borlase, Ben McLaughlin and Billy van Eerde all pushing hard for the win. Heat 3 saw Jarred Brook back on track Leading out Kayden Downing and Kye Thomson with Carl Hendrickson in hot pursuit.

The club was able to get in a couple of more heats until the the 250cc Opens were on track and the heavens opened again. This ended with a small pile up at the far end of the track and the racing was halted. More discussions and frantic looking at the BOM Radar site followed as more storm cells moved around the locality of the track.

Out came the heavy machinery and the top surface of the track, which by now was very sloppy, was graded off. More time passed with the team frantically trying to get the track back in a safe operation condition. By 1905 the track had been cleaned off and we were again back racing.

Only a couple of more races were able to be run before the heavens opened again with more torrential rain and the forecast of more on the way. After a huge effort by the organisers and support crew the sad decision was taken that the event would have to be abandoned. Even though the finals were not held final placings were calculated on the races that had been held.

Subsequently Billy van Eerde was declared the winner of the Pro 450 category while Jarred Brook took out MX Open.

The racing throughout the day was nothing short of stellar. The skills of the riders from the Division One kids through to the Open class was amazing. The racing in all classes was closely fought and despite the washout at the end, a great days racing was had.

North Brisbane proved again that they can deliver well run events that attract the top riders from around the country.  Bring on the next North Brisbane Cup to be run in December 2021.

Jarred Brook enjoyed racing some of his old sparring partners after wrapping up pretty much everything there is to win in regards to Australian Dirt Track Championships in recent years, the 22-year-old plans to defend his titles here again this year before hopefully heading over to race the best in the USA again in 2022.

2020 North Brisbane Cup Results

Pro 450 cc

1. 29 Billy Van Eerde
2. J21 Jarred Brook
3. 818 Kye Thomson

MX Open

1. J21 Jarred Brook
2. 25 Cyshan Weale
3. 43 Jack Miller

250 cc Open

1. 270 Seth Qualischefski
2. 671 Ben Montgomery
3. M11 Morty Michelmore

Sidecar up to 1100 cc

1. 20 Kai Frame
2. 247 Bradley Hawkins
3. 21 Joel Askew

200 – 250cc 4stk 13 to u16 years

1. 59 Tom Drane
2. 598 Rory McQualter
3. 61 Cooper Anderson

Classic Pre 90

1. 179 Sean Doak
2. 48 Rick Knowles
3. 19 Troy Pritchard

50cc Div 2

1. 277 Hudson Lloyd
2. 49 Preston Craft
3. 236 Harley O’More

85cc 2stk & 150cc 4 Stk 9 – u13 years

1. 7 Sam Drane
2. 422 Riley Nauta
3. 224 Jordy Loftus

Senior Over 45

1. H47 Cark Hendrickson
2. 125 Darren Walker
3. 400 Keven Bradley

85cc 2 stk & 150 4stk 12 – 16 years

1. 171 Brayden Bradford
2. 977 Cougar Aripoff
3. 578 Aston Davis

Junior 100cc to 125cc 2 / 13 – U16

1. 59 Tom Drane
2. 521 Jhett Calderwood
3. 29H Harrison Voight

65cc 9 – 13 Years

1. 422 Riley Nauta
2. 7 Sam Drane
3. 87 Cooper Archibald

65cc 7 – u9 Years

1. 127 Ky Mitchel
2. 277 Hudson Lloyd
3. 125 Koby Erich

Senior ATV Open

1. 78 Benn Mann
2. 66 Josh Griffith
3. 67 Matthew Griffith

2021 Racing schedule

2021 Provisional MXGP Calendar

2021 Yamaha AORC presented by MXStore calendar

2021 Australian Pro MX calendar

2021 Speedway GP Calendar

2021 FIM Hard Enduro World Championship (Provisional)

2021 Australian Speedway events

2021 FIM Cross-Country Rallies calendar

2021 AMA Supercross calendar

2021 GNCC

2021 New Zealand Motocross Championship

FIM Bajas World Cup 2021 (Provisional)

2021 Provisional Australian Supercross dates

• 25 September – Further information TBA
• 9 October – Further information TBA
• 16 October – Further information TBA
• 23 October – Further information TBA
• 30 October – Further information TBA
• 6 November – Further information TBA
• 20 November – Further information TBA
• 27 November – Further information TBA

2021 Australian Four Day Enduro (A4DE)
May 19-22 – Harvey, WA

2021 Enduro Australian Three Day Vintage Enduro (A3VE)
7-9 May – Blackwood, VIC

2021 Finke Desert Race
11-14 June – Northern Territory

2021 Hattah Desert Race
3-4 July – Hattah, Victoria

2021 Motocross Australian Classic Motocross Championship
9-11 July – Nowra, NSW

2021 Motocross Australian Post Classic Motocross
16-18 July – Nowra, NSW

2021 International Six Day Enduro (ISDE)
30 August – 4 September – Italy

U.S. AMA West ISDE Qualifier Series

• March 20-21: Red Mountain, Calif., Desert MC and Prospectors MC, AMA District 37 Sprint Enduro
• April 17-18: Campwood, Ariz., Arizona Trail Riders, AMA AMRA
• May 22-23: Craig, Colo., Enduro Colorado, AMA RMEC

U.S. AMA East ISDE Qualifier Series

• May 1-2: Battle Creek Mich., BCMC, AMA Michigan Sprint Enduro
• May 7-8: Plantersville, Ala., Southern Enduro Riders Association
• May 29-30: Glen Daniel, W. Va., AMA Full Gas Sprint Enduro