Racerhead #12
Friday, March 25, 2011 | 5:30 PMHonda is the world’s largest manufacturer of motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles, and the undisputed leader in motorcycle technology. More motocross riders have won titles on Hondas than on any other bike. When you’re serious about winning, Honda is the machine for you.
If it seems like it's been a long week since last Saturday night's crazy Jacksonville race, you’re right. The masses and the media have been waiting to hear more about James Stewart's undisclosed injuries after that frightening crash off the start of the main event. It happened in a section that basically knocked four top riders out of the points: Stewart finished eighteenth based on his qualifying time, which was better than Matt Goerke (nineteenth and a broken wrist) and Weston Peick (twentieth), who also went down with him. Then of course series points leader Ryan Villopoto failed to qualify, as did Justin Brayton and Daytona SX Lites winner Blake Baggett. Was it a flaw in the track design? In my personal opinion, yes. Having a rhythm section that close to a start (and a right-handed one at that) was asking for trouble, and the series got it.
The view from inside the Rogers Centre.
Photo: Andrew Fredrickson
You can watch the Toronto SX on Sunday on Speed at 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. But if you want to save the suspense, you might not want to get anywhere near Racer X Online, because we will be covering the event from early tomorrow to late night, long after all of the riders and teams end up in the hotel bar that overlooks the Rogers Centre. You can follow lap times here, or follow us on Twitter (@racerxonline).
While most of the teams would probably rather do without the hassles of a trip across the border (especially so many foreign-born mechanics that probably worry about not having their visas in order to reenter the country), I think it's pretty cool to have a round outside the U.S., and I have floated the idea of going to Estadio Azteca in Mexico City for years. The “international” aspect is still a leftover from the Jam Sports/AMA/Live Nation/FIM fiasco of several years ago, so it's a must-do. But here's the thing about Toronto that I don't get: there is exactly one Canadian rider who signed up for the AMA Supercross class. Seriously. So root for #926 Josh Snider, Canada—he's a hero for even showing up and trying.

Ryan Villopoto is not only on the cover of Racer X, but he made the cover of Moto X in Germany as well, shot by our own Simon Cudby.
So will Chad Reed carry his momentum into Toronto? His late-race battle with Trey Canard was almost overlooked as a result of all the drama off the start. Both Reed and Canard were flying, and it only added to the element of excitement that makes it feel like it's a brand new season. If Reed somehow gets his TwoTwo Motorsports/Bel-Ray Honda into the points lead, it will be one of the biggest stories our sport has seen in some time. Six rounds to go and yet it seems like we're starting a whole new deal beginning this weekend!

I will now admit that I am honestly getting excited about the GPs starting up next week in Sevlievo, Bulgaria. With Zach Osborne an honest title contender in MX2, and Michael Leib possibly making a run on his new factory Husqvarna, it could mark the first time since 1995 than an American has won a world title, though they will find huge competition from Ken Roczen, Jeffrey Herlings, and the returning Tommy Searle and Racer X columnist Max Anstie. Plus with Ben Townley coming back (though currently on the injured list) and Clement DeSalle going after Tony Cairoli's #1 plate (well, #222) the action should be interesting in MX1 to say the least.
I'm also looking forward to the late-April Grand Prix at Valkenswaard in the Netherlands. I was there back in 1992 when Donny Schmit, Bob Moore, Trampas Parker, Tallon Vohland, Bader Manneh, and Mike Healey were all racing the Grand Prix tour, but I understand the place has undergone huge changes. And I haven't been to a GP in Europe since Ryno was racing there, so I look forward to seeing all of the changes the series itself has undergone. (And yes, Klaus, I am stopping by your shop for a visit!) Round three will be the U.S. Grand Prix at Glen Helen on May 15, and with more top AMA riders talking about entering, it's shaping up as a good race too.
Check out this great Ken Roczen cover shot for England's Moto magazine, shot by Hoppenworld.

If you want to follow the GPs beginning next weekend in Bulgaria, Youshtream is offering its new MX-LIFE.TV site. You can watch the live on www.mx-life.tv. You can sign up for free and get instant access to the exclusive free content and the 2009 and 2010 archive footage. The events this year will have a small fee, or you can order a season pass.
Finally, I discussed Ian Trettel at length last Friday. Here is an update on the rider who was injured at Daytona that we spotted over on Vurbmoto.com. Bracelets and T-shirts are also being sold at store.vurbmoto.com with all proceeds being donated to Ian and his family.
Okay, let's move it over to our resident Canadian, Steve Matthes...
Welcome to round twelve of the Monster Energy AMA Supercross Series, otherwise known as the “Absolute Best Round of the Whole Series.” We’re in my home country!
Okay, it actually hasn’t been voted on as the best round or anything, that’s just my opinion. I don’t think you could get very many others to agree with me, but that’s just because maybe they don’t like the weather (it is rather frosty up here) or maybe they don’t like the strange money or customs that Canadians have, like saying thank you and being overtly friendly.
As I type this, I’m in my hotel room getting ready to head out on a fun day of visiting the Hockey Hall of Fame, buying a whole bunch of Toronto Maple Leafs crap (that’s the hockey team, in case you’re wondering), and just generally soaking up all the Canadian-ness I can. I even headed out here a day early, which should show you how serious I am.
Here's last week's winner Trey Canard, on the cover of Germany's revamped Cross Magazine, shot by the Hoppeworld crew.
Some of you may remember Toronto having insanely soft dirt with ruts everywhere and riders singling the jumps, but the folks at Feld have found a better spot to store the dirt and it was great last year and should be fine this year. I personally didn’t mind the rutty, soft dirt from years past, as it made the guys really struggle out there and added a different feel to the race. But last year and this year should be more like a traditional supercross as far as dirt goes.
The other thing you may remember was the lack of entries last year as just twenty-three 450 riders showed up and everyone made the main event in an unprecedented move. That shouldn’t be a problem this year, as there were over 50 riders pre-entered for this weekend.
James Stewart is in dire need of a win after six straight weeks of not winning.
Photo: Garth Milan
Really, after last weekend, only Reed and winner Trey Canard have to be happy. RV didn’t qualify, Stewie was hauled off, and Ryan Dungey, although he got third, can’t be pumped the way the 22 and 41 pulled out on him. All of this should make for an impressive cocktail of racers wanting to go out and make statements, which should reward all you fans who are there this weekend.
Pro Circuit’s Dean Wilson has to get to the top of the box, as GEICO Honda’s Justin Barcia is pulling away in the points race. Barcia won this race last year and Wilson had some problems getting back into the USA afterward, so I would say Toronto would bring out the best and worst feelings for those two guys.

It's a photo from last year, but that's Dean Wilson on the cover of Japan's Dirt Cool, No. 1 2011.
Don’t forget about Star Yamaha’s Ryan Sipes. he’s been really fast this year and I really want to see what he can do with a start.
I still say, though, that no lead outside of 20 points is going to be safe going into Vegas, because with what is normally the heat races being the main event for the final round, things are going to get crazy. Think about how much they water the track in Sin City, and normally the heat races see some dudes hitting the deck. The 250 finals in Las Vegas are definitely going to be ridiculous.
Over on Pulpmx.com, I did a Classic Commentary with Jeremy Albrecht as we watched Daytona 1995 250 main event. Good times! I have fun doing these with guys, because as a fan I think you can learn a lot about what happened back in the day. Check that out right here.
If you’re not into that one, there are plenty more races on the Classic Commentary page for you to check out. Thanks to Swizcore for the help with these—he’s the man.
Justin Barcia is way out front in the Lites East.
Photo: Garth Milan
We had the Pulpmx Show on Monday with Nick Wey talking about dirt track, Trey Canard filling us all in on Ronnie Mac, and Matt Boni informing us all about gator hunting. Then Eric Sorby called in and things got weird. There was also some moto talk in there, so make sure you check out myself and Kenny “MTV Superstar” Watson each and every Monday at 6 p.m. Pacific and you can laugh with us and at us.
I got a bunch of tweets and texts that Watson was on the MTV Real World show as they are filming in Las Vegas. Kenny actually talked about this on the show a few months ago but like a lot of things with Watson, I didn't know if it really happened or if he just dreamed about it.
It appears that it really did happen and I think that's cool, I didn't see it because I stopped watching the Real World after the first time they were in Vegas and that Trichelle chick hooked up with half of the male population of Vegas but it appears the cast was put to "work" by the H&H Racing crew.
God help them if Kenny was the boss.
Hey if anyone is in Toronto and wants to bench race about how Ferry was only a few race wins away from being considered the greatest racer ever, come down to the Loose Moose on Front Street (right by the Dome) as I'll be there with the Directmotocross.com crew hanging out and talking moto. Chances are you'll see more than a few industry people there as well.
Okay, here's the Weege:
And once again my Uncle Lord Alfred Weigandt has sent a letter in via Royal Mail. He is of course very excited since this weekend's race is not taking place in the United States. Here's his letter:
Oh ‘ello! It’s me favourite race of the American stadiumcross season, the internationally flavored Canadian Stadiumcross! Yes, Yanks, you may call yourselves Americans, but you live in North America, and only one nation within it properly recognizes Queen Elizabeth II on its loonie (that’s buck or dollar to you Americans, er, sorry, United Statesians). O’ Canada, we stand on guard for thee!
Here's a virtual lap with our fastest editor, Red Arrow.
As I stare at me parlor room portrait of the Queen, it reminds me of another colony smart enough to never forget who made it what it was, charitably by force: Australia. Yes, my mates down under are also part of the school of placing “In Liz we trust” on their money. And right now, you should be betting it all—Euros, Loonies, Dollars—on Speedy Reedy! O Canada? O Consistency! Chad is once again using his GP wisdom, accumulated in one short year a decade ago, to spank the Yanks at their own invention, keeping his Frankenstein bike on two wheels while everyone else throws theirs to the ground. Not that I can find too much fault in young Villopoto’s logic. If I were facing up to Reedy in a championship fight, I too would chose not to actually race the final rather than face a one-on-one challenge within it. Last week’s results indicate that when Reedy and Villo lined up on the gate together in a qualifier, Villopoto did terribly, and thus elected to not even race the final for fear of another spanking.
This late season surge is where champions are made. The riders are deep within the slog of trench warfare, and only great soldiers like Reedy (in the same vein of Thorpey’s late charge to overcome Eric Geboers in the 1989 500cc GPs) will be able to thrive in such elements. Go Reedy!

Will the points leader rebound quickly?
Photo: Andrew Fredrickson
But this is only the beginning of my excitement for the weekend. Ireland’s own Dean Wilson returns to his adopted homeland of Canada! The wee laddie has even brought his Irish accent back to his repertoire, thus adding more power to an already rock-solid mental game. I’ve heard much about Yank Jason Barcia running into other riders in hopes of creating intimidation. But hell hath no fury like an Irishman scorned! I expect, by the end of this weekend, that Dean O’ Boy will be fighting so hard that they will ring the bells at the real Notre Dame—in Paris—to honor Europe’s greatest contribution to stadiumcross.
I digress. On many occasions I have taken jabs at history when it comes to the French, but when racing stadiumcross in Canada, I must give proper credit to those in Montreal, who have been hosting their own race since the 1970s. Canada is deeply rich in stadiumcross history, and I shall add that the Montreal event is nearly a decade older than the Paris-Bercy event that everyone drones on about. Oh wait, did I just use French Canadians to take yet another historical jab at the French? Yes, nice job holding onto your colony!
Don’t worry, foreign (and by foreign, this weekend I mean American, oh darn it, I mean, United Statesian) travelers. This weekend’s event is held deep inside the proper English-speaking region of Canada. Be sure to bring your dollar bills and bet them on the numbers twenty-two and fifteen. Or just leave your money at home and don’t bother betting on anyone—your money is worthless anyway as long as it doesn’t have the Queen on it!
Thanks, Lord Alfred, see you at Namur.
Here's some stuff from Ping:
I get asked often about the crash in Phoenix where my bike broke in half. It happened way back in 2002 but the footage was never released before now. I didn’t even watch it back then myself until two years after it happened. Anyway, this clip is from the bonus features of Motocross 101, which is now available for download on iTunes for $5.99.
Thank you to everyone who has helped push Motocross 101 to be the top-selling sports download and second in top selling TV Seasons. Go to iTunes and buy it right now!
Have you seen the new Mud Dolphin video? There’s a pretty amazing curve session early on in the video. Check out the mermaid hunter right here.
I was really bummed out this week to hear that Wil Hahn suffered another injury. After waiting out a pretty serious injury from his A1 crash, I’m sure Wilbur was anxious to get on a bike again. But a crash recently left him with a broken shoulder blade. Hopefully it heals quickly and he can be ready to go at Hangtown. Keep your head up, Wil. Maybe you can use this time to work on getting out of the friend zone with Miss SX?

Check out the cover of the new Xtreme RC Cars magazine... Is that Dave Castillo pulling his first cover?
I was also really disappointed to hear that Ben Townley is hurt again. Go ahead and insert your sarcastic comment about how Ben is always hurt. Whatever. It sounds like he took a big hit to his head, so I hope everything heals up properly. BT would have been a title contender over there, no question about it. As DC mentioned, we still have American riders Zach “The British Pound” Osbourne and Michael “What is a TC610” Lieb to cheer for. Go get ‘em, boys!
While we’re talking about injuries, it seems like that stupid supermoon really kicked some ass in Florida last weekend. We all know RV and Stewart took a beating, though there is some speculation about the seriousness of James’ injuries. His press release says everything is peachy keen and he’s ready to win in Canada. But what’s a press release supposed to say? “James is more beat down that Charlie Sheen’s liver and he’s really just hoping for a miracle at this point”? Press releases are the most idiotic things in our sport. I understand the point of getting the word out to sponsors and fans, but it’s all such a bunch of candy-coated donkey crap.
Anyway, the point I was trying to make is that, lost in all the commotion last Saturday, Matt Goerke suffered a pretty serious injury. He crashed with James in turn one and broke his pelvis and his wrist. A pelvis is not an injury you mess around with, either. You can lose up to two liters of blood from a broken pelvis alone, which can lead to significant hypotension and hypoperfusion. (Yes, I just graduated from paramedic school, so I’m throwing out some terminology.) Let’s just say it’s a bad deal. And what a bummer for Matt, who has been riddled with injury since, uh, since he started racing professionally, really. Get well soon, Matt.
Hopefully this weekend’s racing is much safer but just as entertaining as it has been the past few weeks. One thing is certain: with Steve Matthes back in town, the local Tim Horton’s establishments will enjoy a spike in weekend revenue.
Okay, here are some more notes:
The 4th Annual Racer X Inter-AM is only one week away. Check out this Husky 125 prepared by Dallas Nyblod for Damon Bradshaw to race in the Classic 125 class. It will be a battle of Swedish bikes as Damon will be lining up with Racer X Publisher Scott Wallenberg on his factory replica Monark. Free admission, so if you are in the area, stop by for a trip back in time at the famous OMC track in Boise.

And here's a note from a true privateer looking for help:
I have set up a paypal [email protected]. I am looking for some support from our motocross industry. I need some help on entries and travel. I'm currently tied for 15th in the east coast lites points. The first three rounds of the east coast Lance Vincent was kind enough to let me borrow and race his practice bike where I was able to put in the main at Atlanta. I was in a qualifying position at daytona and made a few mistakes and missed it by one in the heat. The LCQ in Daytona I had gotten the start and was clipped coming outta the 2nd turn only to go down and not make it. Indianapolis I managed to get a 5th in the heat and logged a solid 12th in the main! Thursday night leading up to Jacksonville I caught the flu. I was riding Saturday with a 102 temp. Couldn't keep any foods down, I was in survival mode. In the heat race things came up my throat twice—I did throw up on myself—and Alex Martin almost caused some to go out the other end! :) I pushed through it and made the main. But from there I was spent. The outside temps throughout the day took alot out of me as did the little flu bug. I did the best I could with the circumstances that I was under!

Brad Ripple is asking for some much-needed support.
Photo: Andrew Fredrickson
I have to say thanks to those who have helped me. First off, Naveen, thanks for all the support and allowing me to ride your rider's practice bike! And building my motor outta your pocket! Without you I wouldn't have been able to race! All the guys at Honda of Houston, Fly Racing, Von Zipper keeping my sights clear! Ogio, EVS, Rockwelltime.com, HJC Helmets, Vortex, Fuupclothing.com and my girlfriend Kelly for helping me get to Atlanta on such short notice!
Anything helps guys! 20 people pitch $10 each and I can go race. Thanks for all your time! And please help the privateers. WE MAKE THE SHOW!
Okay, people, can we help this kid out?
Here is an update on Brad Frace, who had a gnarly crash at Oak Hill over the weekend and was airlifted to a local hospital.
The 2nd Annual Old SoCal Pro Bench Racers' Reunion is coming up next weekend in Santa Ana, California. Steve Bauer sent us over a list of all of the folks on the guest list: Gary Chaplin, Jim Wilson, Rex Staten, Marty and Mike Tripes, Jon Derhammer, Danny LaPorte, Uncle Donnie Emler, Ricky Johnson, Gary Jones, Marty Smith, Tommy Croft, Morris Malone, Ray Lopez, Gary Ogden, Goat Breker, Warren Reid, Bill Urban, Ray Topham, Bill Rubly, Wayne Boyer, Bobby Myers, Mike Beier, Rick Maki, Todd Peterson, Davey Carlson, Bruce McDougal, Jim Fishback, Joe Bonnello, Tom White, Lee Ramage, David Taylor, Dave Williams, Tim & Chuck Lunde, Mark Tyer, Gary Denton, Ron Turner, Mark Ellis, Bob Sullivan, Ross Maeda, Andy Jannings, Clint Hardick, Doug Nicol, Dave Eropkin, Bill Payne, Tim Hart, Chuck Miller, David Moates, Harry Klemm, Dennis Cox, Jim Gibson, Todd Huffman, Dave Miller, Tom Corley, Tim Hoover, Robert Reisinger, Clark Jones, Val Tamietti, Jeff Ward, Dave Pessy, Stu Peters, Ken Faught, Chip Howell, Jim Beaucham, Scott Heidebrink, Ron Lawson, Bob Tocco, Shawn McConnell, Dave Rodgers, John Tessitore, Mike Faria, Dan Dilkey, Eric Crippa, Gary Martini, Jim Gianatsis, Matt Devich, Keith Lynas, Ward Bassett, Terry Clanton, Thad Friday, Tim Buck, Brad Lackey, Bryar Holcomb, Donnie Hansen, John DeSoto, and .. Steve Bauer!

Sounds like half the guys in this photo will be at the SoCal Pro Bench Racers' Reunion.
We all know the other side sucks and that Bob Hannah was a legend at the track, but who knew Chris Muk and his buddies had the three-man slingshot (complete with water balloons as ammo) fired up in the pits sometime around 1990? This stuff would never happen today. You’ll find all that and more right here at Unadilla’s FB page.

Is this the future?
Zero Motorcycles, the upstart electric motorcycle company, recently held their 2011 product launch in the Santa Cruz Mountains. With industry veteran Scot Harden in charge of Marketing, the company proudly introduced the entire 2011 product line, and which is comprised of five models. There big news for 2011 is that all models have been completely revised and updated with better technology. This includes everything from the battery power pack to the chassis, suspension and wheels. In addition, the company introduced a few new street/commuter models to the product line up, which makes them the only electric motorcycle manufacture to offer a full range of two wheel products.
In addition, the company also announced a new round of $26 million in investment capital, which they expect will carry them through to profitability. One thing that is particularly cool about these guys is that they build and assemble the bikes right in the Santa Cruz area of Northern California, and over 50% of the part on the bikes are sourced from North American suppliers. Not too many OEMs can make this claim!
The idea of electric bikes is pretty cool there are no dirty air filters to clean, no oil to change and no valves that need replacement. Also, with virtually no noise emitted, it also means improved access to riding areas that might not normally be available. Look for more information on Zero Motorcycles, including a riding impression on the MX models, to be posted here next week.
Bad news from Jimmy Button's Twitter account:
“So I crashed my bike on Monday and broke my arm. Operation in 2hrs and then I can finish the ride a week from now. More plates and screws.”
Good luck to Jimmy on his Miles for Miracles ride to raise funds and awareness for spinal cord trauma research.
In case you missed it, you have to check out this brutal crash Ken Block suffered last weekend while competing in Portugal at the World Rally Car Championships. While it's impossible to tell by the angle of the camera what exactly Ken hit, whatever it was had the same effect as the little jump James Stewart hit while leading the Daytona Supercross.
"Yep, that was a big one," Ken told us via email. "Those things are built so well...all I walked away with was a bruised foot and a bruised ego (the ego hurts worse). With age comes a cage!"
Here's a piece on the best and worst races ever, from some of Monster Energy AMA Supercross' biggest stars of all time, by Eric Johnson.
Hey and check this out, we've released version 2.0 of the Racer X App!
What’s New in Version 2.0?
* Now plays ALL video from Racer X Online!
* Now plays ALL podcasts from Racer X Online!
* New news feed
* Includes Socialize, a new mobile social-networking platform that allows commenting, story liking, and better sharing
It's free, so if you've got an iPhone, iPad, or iPod Touch, check it out right HERE!
Carol Beale and her fourth-grade students in Texas continue to participate in her program Tracking 21, which follows Blake Wharton’s season with stats and facts. Check out the video that their local news station KXII created.
By many generous donations, all of Carol’s 120+ students will be traveling to the Dallas Supercross on April 2, and they’ll be wearing Blake Wharton replica wigs!
This week's eye candy for the upcoming Racer X Inter-AM in Boise on April 2: a stunning 1974 YZ 250 with Maico forks ala Ake Jonsson. Prepared by Seattle hot shoe Dallas Nyblod. For more info on this event click here.
Finally, a sad note from our friend Glenn McGovern, who lost a close friend and riding buddy this week:
“My best friend David Redmond, #28, passed away last night leaving his wife Estelle and is two year old son, David. He was 51 yrs. old and riding his beloved CR450 Honda at CCR MX at Lorranger, La. at night practice when he had a massive heart attack, dying almost instantly. He was treated with CPR and Acadian Ambulance to no avail for he had departed already. David was to ride the Golden Pines MX race in the Louisiana Winter Series in the 40 plus class with me again this weekend. He used to say when he died he wanted his ashes spread at Mt. Glen Helen for he love going to the MTA World Vet Championships yearly. He loved that Glen Helen track. In 2004 we made 4 races including the Endurance Series there driving 29 hrs. one way in my box truck. He could operate heavy machinery and helped build Trampas Parker's original track, Stone County and the old club track at Skip's land in Gulfport, Ms. He was a shipfitter at a local ship yard that build military stealth warships. He loved motocross. He was very religious and did not fear death. I am sure he is in heaven. I will do my best to help Estelle and little David race as he purchased and was rebuilding two (David on little David : "He needs a backup bike."), YZ Zingers for little David. We planned to camp and race this weekend at Golden Pines. I plan to do a memorial lap Sunday if allowed to in honor of David Redmond, father, racer, husband and friend.”

David Redmond at last 2009 Glen Helen MTA World Vet race in the middle with me to left, my mom, David and friend Daniel.
Godspeed, David Redmond.
Thank you for reading Racerhead. See you at the races.
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in our Latest issue of Racer X available now.One of the most successful—and controversial—team managers of all time, Larry Brooks is looking to return to the races. Page 146.




HOLE SHOT
Why can't the promoters behind the various SX events get it together? And how come so many peple think that an ex-pro automatically knows how to build a track? Even worse, some of these "track designers" are getting the racers injured. The AMA needs to get involved.
Weak!! Sounds like "PING" is a little disappointed that Stewarts press release didn't say he was mangled and unable to ride!! That dude needs to exorcise his inner Stewart issues!!
Strange....I had read that on PulpMX tweets that Weege wasn't coming to Canada because of non-renewed passport....is that true? (That tweet seems to be gone.) br />
And heard on the PulpMX show that Watson wasn't coming. Too bad. Oh well, Toronto will still have more spectators than the US-based races like Jacksonville. Guess we support the sport, EH? ;)
They ought to put Marty Smith on a Monark 125, he won the California High School championship on one, didn't he?
While Mexico would be cool... its just too dangerous and risky right now...
What are you talking about, "Whatever"??? I said that press releases are small bits of the truth candy-coated into a shiny ball for the public. My point had nothing to do with Stewart. Read it again, genius.
The art of the psych job has been lost to corporate namby pambiness and P.R. spin doctors. The Jammer would've sang a song about how his gizzard exploded on impact and how he's comin' after Howerton & DiStefano this very next week. Now THAT my friends, is a psych job!
Yeah jairtime, that would be sublime to see that.....if they could ever find one. Maybe "borrow" one from Tom White's garage????
Ping's R.T. seems to indicate a low tolerance for Whatever's endless defense of all things Stewart......or maybe whatever has jumped to a conclusion (in defense of all things Stewart). jairtime, truth be told, I really want to see #522 rollin' that fire-engine red type II that he's been around so much by now, the color red gives him a nervous twitch.
Marty Smith is always invited and a Monark would be waiting for him but he had a conflict and could not make it.
Whatever "ping"........struck a nerve huh?? I did read it again and still feel the same way!! Just my opinion sir!!! Am i allowed that? Remember this one.........you said "I simply refuse to call James the fastest rider on the planet…umphhggh…. Sorry, just puked in my mouth a little." Just sayin'!!!! It's ok if you harbor a little dislike for the guy, just admit it!! RV took a pretty good digger too, what did his camp have to say??
Toronto, i'm excited!
Thought Deano was a Scot?
I was especially disappointed in Villipoto throwing a tantrum like a baby after the LCQ, when he intentionally ran into the back of Vince Friese's bike, yelling and cussing at him. And to blame Boni for the earlier crash and act a fool, is not very impressive. I was a huge RV before, and this incident completely ruined it for me.
Electric bikes would be awesome !! hope it works out.
Hahaha Michael "What is a TC610" Leib.
I about had an orgasm when i saw that 125 husky. I wanted that thing more than farrah fawcett.
Move the toronto raceeee to NY
Endo4, that would be trick, but imagine the sound of a supercross main event..., kinda like a swarm of angry hornets.
I still miss the 2-stroke, if for nothing other than that awesome SOUND !
Not saying it is OK or acceptable, but RV had to be really upset and he lost his cool under A LOT of pressure. It has happened to the best of them, including golden boy Dungey a few weeks back....I am sure when RV is asked about it, he will man up and say he blew his top a little and I think he eluded to that in the interview with Bates-man...at least he didn't go grab him by the neck like Mr. James stop beating me Reed.....Funny, Reed grabs Stewies neck cause JS7 "almost" took him down....but then Reed purposely takes Stewart out and says " i want points"......what a fag...GO RV....
Hey Better Sport, now some of you are getting to know the real RV, he's a real a.hole. I've seen him at several events, and he really looks like he could care less for fans, specially kids. I understand he has to deal with thousands of dumb ass fans like me, but seems like he's the only rider not dealing with it. Besides, part of his job is to represent Kawasaki and deal with fans.
We respect his racing and how good he's doing this year but he really needs to treat his fans a lot better.
I'll take erin bates if you dont want her. : }
Wilson is from SCOTLAND, Weege ya moron, not IRELAND... good Gawd, anyone in this sport knows that.
Wow those have to be the two biggest wrecks i have seen in ages. Ken Blocks crash looked like something out of a video game!
And Pings, dam amazed he even got back on a bike again after that one,
NO MEXICO ROUND. there are already enough supercross races out west. Enough already. What about Syracuse, and take Orlando if they dont want to show up and go back to Michigan. But no more out west. And Whatever, Ping hasnt said anything near as bad about Stewie as you have about Reed, so whats the difference??
It would be great to see M. Smith on a Monark, a #522 or a #512 Honda. He was the coolest back then.
I really owe Marty Smith a big thank you. One evening when I was 18 I spent some special moments with a girl on the first turn of a motocross track because she said I looked like Marty Smith. I wasn't going to argue with her. Sometimes I miss those days of physical conditioning, a good tan and long hair.
Nice piece of work weegee....
monark613, that is phenomonal, on several counts. 1) Your extending the courtesey to Mr. Smith 2) you actually HAVE one of those jewels around and 3) you're handing it over to an old pro to do his worst to it.
I tip my cap to you sir(s).
Calling Wilson a Mc? It might be that Lord Weigant is of the old school and isn't quite ready to accept the reality that Scots have a foothold on his Jolly ole' England. It must curl his crumpets to remember back to 1986 when "King David" was handled by another "United Statesian" (by way of Ireland) Mr. John O'Mara on a 125!!!!!! Odds Bodkins!!!!
carlsbad, you are right on about jimmy weinert, he was the funniest guy in the pits.
______________________________
at a different poster:
"He knows he beat JS up and down his whole career "
Whose WHOLE career ? that makes no sense whatsoever.
FYI ricky only raced against stewart, in two of his ten years, as a pro.
Hey Glenn, Sorry about your friend. You said some very fitting things about David. I wish the best for his family. Life is short, he was doing what he loved.
I'm a longtime motocrosser from Indiana, help Ripple out with any donations possible! Great kid, no one nicer and a clean racer through the ranks. Go on Bradley and keep making the mains!
anta ana ? you mean santa ana, cal. also its Tom white not Tim. Who proof reads your stuff ?
@whatever, your internet grace is amazing, trolling is fun eh?
A bitter and spiteful person with little respect for others feelings. Give this forum a break for 3 months Whatever, I'm sure you'll see your flaws and apologize....Yeah, I doubt it too.
That was great of Davey Coombs to mention David's death and put his picture in there at the end of Racerhead. Thanks so much.
Glenn McGovern
Hey Mathis, whats up with only 1 Canadian racing the Toronto SX? Are all thier bikes still frozen in the shed? No wonder you defected to the US of A.
So if RV wins the SX championship does that make him the "Fastest Man On The Planet"?
mtv sucks! sorry i had to say it.
Looks like the field beat me to the punch with the I thought Deano was from Scotland. Hey New york, this has been discussed. You guys aren't going to get shit because of all those union assholes running the show back there. As usual, good job Racer X staff.
Yamaha625 sucks.
Hey "whatever" I see you picked up on the PING and Stewart issue. PING will deny he has issues with JS but everybody knows. He did talk crap about JS7 on Mathess show and made sure the blue bike didnt have a 7 when testing. You notice JS7 does his interviews with the other mag. Something went down. JS7 is cool with jason Weingdgant tho.
Reedy really needs to pick it up. I mean he could smell blood. Honestly i cant imagine all the pressure he is going through right now. Its better to be in RV's position because he still has 7 points so he could come 2nd or 3rd to Reedy win and still have points lead. If Reedy walks away with the title it will be history for sure. How about Dungey wins the title without winning a race? that would be epic also. it would be the first time a rider won the title without winning a single race. It is possible if you do the math.
Isn't Wilson Scottish, not Irish? Thats not a small mistake, just saying.
I am so smart I graduated college and I write for racer x and I have a cynical sense of humor hat makes me sound intelligent when really I was a b (if that) student at a no-name university and I hate Stewart because in one year he did what I couldn't do my whole career...
Oh yeah and my phallus is small; the source and center of all my outward hostility that i display from my over-glorified soapbox called ask ping....
Dgizzy, Ferry won a 125 SX title without winning a race.
Well....."BD"....the difference IS, Dave Pingree writes for and is on the staff of this "mag"....and i'm just another dude like you and the rest of us who log in on this thing. Besides, i'm not saying there is anything wrong with it, just stating my opinion on what i perceive as him having a little bit of an aversion to said rider!! You have to read between the lines a little i think, but i do believe it's there. I love how you ALWAYS single me out for what i say......someone else called Reedy out up above on here (and i agree with them) and you say NOTHING, if it had been me who called him out, you would be on my ass....i knew you loved me!! Hey "Im Sick of Seeing what Whatever Wrote".....are you serious?? HAHA, that is funny!! WHATEVER!! Yeah "dgizzy", it's really not too hard to see that he has some sort of problem with the guy, there's no crime in that, i was just making an observation!!
On a side note, I think we should be able to post comments under the Fan of the Week pictures.
Ping, when people lose blood in the U.S., we don't measure it in liters, or litres, if you like the really weird spelling. We measure it in pints or, heaven forbid, quarts! But... Mmmmmmmmmmmmm...candy coated donkey crap!
what is it with people thinking dean wilson is irish, it wouldnt suprise me if he never set foot on this country, get a map and look at it, scotland and ireland are two difrent countrys... DEAN WILSON IS NOT IRISH! although i wish he was so we could brag about him.
Guys, we all know where Deano is from ; Lord Alfred Eigandt write with deep sarcasm as a bitter and slightly out of touch Englishman. He was among fun of the confusion of where Wilson is from. We all love Dean and know he's a Highlander.
As for Stewart and Racer X, dgizzy, I think he has done plenty of interviews with us over the years and will continue. There wasn't a #7 on that Yamaha test bike because that's the number that showed up on it.
And I do still think he's the fastest man on the planet, even if Ping doesn't. James just needs to work on staying up, because I don't know that he needs to go any faster. Just my two cents. Thanks for reading Racerhead.
DC
MX Sports
God speed David. You will surely be missed. David and his cousin Sam(whom also had a carrer ending accident about 5-8 yrs ag) were both fixtures in the South Mississippi motocross. He will surely be missed. West Overstreet
I still love you ping.
Yes a good article and alway like reading tt. Hay trick I got your back I think you are ok. I also rode one of those 125 Huskys and had a chance to race the 125 rotary valve Maico really did not care for them that much but were fun to race. I wonder if any of those Maico's are still around? I was given a few bikes to try but I worked at a Yama, Honda,BSA Ossa, Rickman, Rokon shop. I dont know if there was anyhting I did not try racing in the mid 70's. Story' I have got lol
We are lucky to have guys like Ping, Mathes and Weege posting on these boards. They are not afraid to say what they really think as opposed to the PC crap that other industry guys lay down. It's ok to disagree with them but don't take for granted what you have here. This dosent happen in other sports.
Whatever, its because if anybody writes anything that involves Stewie and they arent kissing his butt when they write it you call them out. And then YOU do the same when writing about Reed. Its why I called you out. Its kinda hypocriticle of you to do that. PING, your a riot, keep it up. Weege and DC, love the site and all the articles, and its FREE!! What more can race fans ask for??
When somebody has a Beef with the almighty JS7, Or, FMOTP, as he so likes to be referred as, His captain of arms, "whatever" begins his tirade. It's funny to read his hypocritical rhetoric. When Reed wins this title, he will go silent like our old friend "YZSean". And I do agree with the statement that whoever wins this title should be labeled Fastest man on the planet. Just to piss James and his little buddy "Whatever" off!!!
I will give whatever this much....he doesn't play the race card. That is just flat played-out. Usually someone goes there when they no longer have intelligent conversation / argument to add. So, thanks on that one. Otherwise, he is entitled to stick up for whomever he chooses. I personally don't care about "the entertainer formerly known as Stewart" but, bashing a guy that does it to himself so well, is kind of pointless from my perspective.
I do wonder what happened to YZsean. Maybe he got a life like I need to do. For all the one trick ponies out there, it's o.k. to talk about other racers besides your "man-crush". There's like, 20 racers on any given gate.....
So......let me get this straight.......when Grant Langston lined up at 2008 Anahiem-1, he was the "fastest man on the planet", is that what you are trying to say? please clarify.......
If you are referring to my question Mr. Trick--then answer it. Since you seem to be unable to understand my posts shoot me your email so I can have you proof read them for me so we can eliminate this confusion you are experiencing with my banter.
Anybody that thinks Stewart is "just fine" physically after the last couple weekends has never taken a digger on a dirt bike. No way he 100% after the abuse his body has been through lately.---Hey Whatever, you puke a little in your mouth way too often. That's not normal. I'd get that checked but I'm guessing you suffer from Fantarditis.
You are correct, that I dont understand your posts, but I am not giing you my e-mail. sorry.
Have it your way Trick--I tried.
You are an idiot Jdubya......that was a quote from earlier in the year that "Ping" made!!! And FYI....the less than 100 percent James Stewart you refer to, just put down a 51.8 second lap...over a second faster than ANYONE!! That doesn't mean he will win...just sayin'!! Oh "FATTGUY", you are so witty and strong......you do realize that getting you fellas all worked up is fun for me right?? i mean, i say what i say because it is how i feel.....i've got that right just like you do.......but the fact that i get your blood boiling with what i believe is just a little bonus for me!!! There is no hypocrisy here "beedee-two-hundy".....i ADMIT that i don't care for Reed..straight up!! AND i'm not doing ANYTHING on here that the rest of you yappers don't do on a regular basis!!! Cheerlead for "ping" all you want buddy, i can't wait for the day he throws out a subtle dig on RV, you'll be the first to "call him out"........enjoy the race gentleman!!
I knew I'd get ya back on the boards Whatever. I don't care if JS lays down a 30 second lap there is no way he is 100%--is that a big deal? Do you actually believe he is 100% after all he has been though?
Well jdubya, i suppose it IS possible for a "superhuman" like JS to still lay down a second faster lap, even at less than 100 percent!!! HAHAHA!! C'mon man, i guess we'll find out tonight in the main....i'm well aware that qualifying and heat race performances don't mean dick in the big picture, that chump Reed is in second place in points and he has had some pretty mediocre qualifying and heat races this season.
Like him or not JS has proven to be one tough SOB and if he can stop the carnage, chip away at the points gap, and win this Championship he will have made this the most exciting SX season ever. I will not make any predictions after what happened last weekend.
This is what I mean, when I say that I don't understand your post's JDubya, this is from an earlier thread....
"He knows he beat JS up and down his whole career "
Whose WHOLE career ? That makes no sense whatsoever.
FYI ricky only raced against stewart, in two of his ten years, as a pro.
But, I do agree with you, that if he doesn't keep it upright and win tonite, it is OVER for him.
I understand that was poorly worded Trick but come on man, you're smart enough to know what I was getting at. There is no way a competitor like RC or even MC will ever believe Stewart was better than them no matter what they say on TV. It's not in their blood. Stewart had the ability to rewrite all of the history books but I don't think that's possible anymore.
Sorry i misunderstood you JDubya. Here is another very interesting point; Stewart beat ricky carmichael, in his very first races on a 450f. First he did it in supercross round 1 (toronto), then he did it in outdoors round 1 (hangtown). What if he had had a 450f in 2005 ? He almost won the supercross title in 2006, coming up 2 points shy. 2 very hard crashes, in round 2 and 3 of outdoors (a cross rut, and a seized motor) caused him to sit out round 4, and ruined his title run, early in the season. Carmichael had an equally bad injury, during the series, but was fortunate enough to have it occur, after he had already clinched the title. Also, ricky had 3 years to try to beat MC in supercross. In his first try he was out of the top ten, and in his second try he finished 5th, then he beat him in his third try, when MC was 30 years old. Stewart Only had 2 years to try to beat ricky, in his first try he finished tied for tenth, and in his second try he finished second, he did not get a third try, because ricky retired at 27 years old.
Bauer REALLY invited Dilkey ??? Jesus God.... for what purpose, exactly ???
Trick--those are great facts that prove this kid had the ability to rewrite the record books. I think he was led down the wrong path whether it was running a 2 stroke or signing a SX only deal. It all contributed to a reduced number of wins and championships. I personally think he needs to ride smarter , slow it down just smidge and he'll win many more races. Look at Daytona. He was just killing it there and continued to try and gap the field for no reason. Nobody was gonna touch him and he still crashed.
The only 'championship losing' injuries, that he has incurred, were not from riding over his head. The broken collarbone ('02) was from mis-timing a rythym section, in a race that didn't even matter. The broken arm ('05), occurred in practice, in a rythym section, in his first ever 450 race. Missing 2 rounds of outdoors, by going over the bars on a fast downhill ('06), was from his motor seizing up in mid-air. The knee injury ('07), was from a rock that rolled into his path. The wrist injury ('10) was from doing something dumb, by crossing over on a triple in traffic. That accounts for all of the injuries that he has incurred as a pro, since 2002, which have cost him possible championships. Even if he had wanted a 4-stroke in 2005, kawasaki did not have one ready for him, until 2006. I think he would have been MUCH more competitive on a 450f, in 2005. Signing the sx only deal was dumb, but it only accounts for 2 of his missing titles. Even gary bailey said, that he was not riding over his head at daytona. He wasn't doing anything unneccesary when he crashed, he just hit a tacky spot, in a place where the lighting was inadequate. Any of the top guys will tell you, you have to ride at your own pace. When you try to back it down, you get yourself into more trouble. I am not saying he doesn't crash, they all crash. Stewarts non-title seasons, are not a result of him crashing, due to riding over his head. That is just common folklore on these threads.
I agree with all this but that still left a lot of wins and titles on the table for everyone else. I also agree his crash in Daytona this year was not from riding over his head but he was defiantly looking to destroy the competition that night and he was WFO out there when he didn't really need to be. You do have to ride outside your limits at times to win. There are many riders out there that never push the limit like JS does and they don't win. Canard is also one and that's why he has a couple wins this year. He especially impressed me by turning it up a notch to keep Reed from stealing the win. Kid wasn't going to lose that race even though it looked like Reed had him where he wanted him.
You (back-and-forth posts) guys should all get each others e-mail and you can go at each other all day long without all of us having to read your personal attacks, suppositions and fact challenges.
Other than that, what is wrong with a right hand first turn ? Worked GREAT for me on my right-side shifting AJS Y4 Stormer.
Rest in peace Dave Redmond.
X racer, i do not think that you should mention 'fact challenges' and 'personal attacks' in the same sentence. 2 different animals altogether. Show me one of my posts, where I called another poster a name, or mentioned male genitalia.
i k
I know brad ripple, i live in the same area in Indiana has him, and i wouldn't give a dime to support the kid. Never seen someone with such a bad attitude. used to see him at the tracks usually pouting or throwing his helmet or something about something. Not to many locals have good things to say about the kid. I haven't seen him much lately, but the kid is a punk who thinks he's above everyone who because he can make into a sx main. maybe he has changed, but that dude had a serious attitude problem, and i hear from tons of other locals too. You want to know some fast guys from indiana who need and deserve support, the sewell's, those brothers rip, and they are not cry babies. I always try to root for the locals, it's pretty cool when someone make it from your area, but not brad ripple.