Observations: Washougal
Wednesday, July 25, 2012 | 4:25 PM
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Washougal, round eight of the 2012 Lucas Oil Motocross Championship, is a tricky place. On one hand it has ridiculously amazing scenery and is a joy to go to. On the other hand, it’s not easy to see much of the track and it’s not a fun track to race on for the riders. The tire guys are always scrambling and trying to ease hard feelings after seven rounds of perfect traction, and the goggle guys are constantly trying to find a non-existent lens that works great in the sun and shadows. It’s beautiful on the outside but inside, she’s a beast!
I am definitely in the camp that the Washougal track needs to get some new dirt brought in. I heard they did get some new dirt this year but I don’t think it was enough. I also believe that the changes they made a few years ago in taking the Chuck Sun tabletop and catcher’s mitt out were for the worse. Most other improvements, like moving the start two years ago, were for the better. I don’t think there’s a track on the circuit that’s moved their start around like Washougal; I’ve been going there since ’96 and this is the fourth different one I’ve seen. When I was a mechanic, this track produced so many rider complaints that it wasn’t even funny. It’s slippery and rocky base confounded the riders and at one point I remember a tire guy telling David Vuillemin, “You’re just going to have to deal with it,” and by “it,” he meant the feel of your front end going away at any moment.
Tires were once again key this weekend and the previously-incredible-and-perhaps-unbeatable-unless-he-beats-himself Blake Baggett of the Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki team went out in the first moto with his usual combination of tires. It proved to be a horrible choice as Baggett went from second to fifth in the opening laps. That’s not that big of a deal because, well, it’s Blake Baggett y’all. From there though, it got worse as multiple crashes knocked Baggett back to sixth. What was the deal?
Blake Baggett changed back to his regular open tread pattern in the second moto at Washougal, after running a different front tire in the first moto.
Carl Stone photo
It seems that Blake prefers an open tread pattern on his front tire, which works better in loam and sandy conditions, and when you team that up with a 120 width rear tire (which most guys now use on 250s due to the horsepower they’re getting out of them. Lots of 2.5 wide rims as well. These aren’t your 100/100-19’s anymore people!), you get a lot of push in the front end. Baggett felt that it wasn’t a good combination and he lost some serious points to Justin Barcia (first moto winner), Eli Tomac and Ken Roczen. He also lost some points to Marvin Musquin and Wil Hahn, but I think we can safely say they’re outta this thing.
Baggett changed his tire combo for the second moto and presto, just like that, made up a lot of ground on leader Justin Barcia. Passing Bam Bam late and running away with the moto win was, in Baggett’s dad Tom’s words, “a massive salvage job” for Blake. The points gap was eighteen going into Washougal, it was eight after the first moto and was dangerously close to being five. It ended up being eleven when Baggett passed and beat a very ticked-off Barcia. It’s crazy that tire choice (and probably a bit of restraint) could make the difference, but in talking to the Pro Circuit guys, it seems that it did.
(Note: The PC guys told me Baggett ran his regular front tire in moto one then switched in moto two, but in the post-race press conference, Baggett said he ran a different tire in moto one and switched back to his regular tire in the second moto. Totally opposite stories! You never know with these dudes. Either way, whatever they had in moto two was better!)
If you’re Mitch Payton or a fan of Baggett, you’ve got to be a bit nervous about what’s coming after the two-week break. We’ve got a couple of Justin Barcia specialty tracks coming up in Southwick and Unadilla. Barcia was leading a 450 moto there last year until his motor blew up, but he went on to dominate the second moto. He’s won there before on a 250F, and he’s got a great shot at erasing his eleven-point deficit in the next two races. Blake’s results, coupled with how he holds it together in the next four motos, are going to be key to how he finishes in the championship.
And not too far back is Eli Tomac, who can still win this thing. He’s just over a moto back, although it’s been a while since Tomac has been the best rider of the weekend. Still, if Baggett or Barcia falter, ET will be right there. But if I were in Vegas (wait, I LIVE here), I’d be a betting man and put my dineros on either Barcia or Baggett taking this thing home.
Eli Tomac ran a hard second behind teammate Justin Barcia at Washougal.
Carl Stone photo
And King Kenny Roczen seems to be fading a bit here as the season rolls on. A rider that found himself on the podium at every single race through five rounds now finds himself without one for the third consecutive time. The American series is much more of a grind than the GP series and perhaps Kenny is finding the going a bit tough right now. I still think he’s doing fine, but with him heading off to Germany during the break to go race, I wonder if he and his dad think that Roczen could be a bit tired. If it was me, I’d be all about R&R in these next two weeks. Then again, I’m not Ken Roczen and family.
The debate still rages on. Is Roczen doing well in this, his first year at the Nationals? I believe so. The number of podiums and laps led also indicate that. He’s also been very close to having an overall win. The German is 18-years-old and is doing just fine, and he’s going to get better. Think about that for a second and down it like a lager.
The streak is over! The streak is over! Ryan Dungey’s amazing ten-moto win streak was broken when Mike Alessi won the first moto at Washougal. It wasn’t easy, Mike had heat on him for a long time by The Dunge, but it was a perfect storm of factors that enabled Mike to win: a hard-to-pass-on track, exposing the one weakness that Dungey has (an inability to force things and make passes happen), some luck (Dungey crashing) and pure raw speed on Alessi’s part. It’s nice to see Mike do it on a bike that, which is good, but isn’t a factory KTM. In a way it’s redemption for Alessi, father Tony and Mike Genova, who owns MotoConcepts. Great for Genova as well, because it’s his company’s home race and he no doubt had a lot of his employees there to witness the achievement of the 800.
What should we make of Dungey’s snub of Alessi at the end of the moto? Well, put it this way. Alessi has been a thorn in the side of Dungey all year, as well as an expert in counter-attack measures. Dungey ate rocks for 27 minutes, he almost went into the crowd, he lost and he probably wasn’t very happy. I can think of more than a few riders who wouldn’t have been that pumped to celebrate with the guy they just lost to. [Editor’s Note: Later, in the post-race press conference, both Alessi and Dungey were cordial with one another. When Alessi was leaving the mic, the two of them shook hands as Dungey was about to take his turn at the mic] Besides, did anyone else think that Mike was wanting a little more than just a fist pump? I understand he was mega-pumped, but this wasn’t the moto to determine the best motorcycle racer ever in the whole universe, it was just the first moto at Washougal, with another one remaining. I don’t make anything out of this. Dungey did relent and give him a handshake, and I understand Mike being happy. But it did have many in the pits talking, I assure you.
Do the Mikes, Alessi and Genova, deserve a spot on the U.S. squad at the des Nations?
Carl Stone photo
Roger DeCoster, team USA manager for the upcoming MXoN, gave an interview with Motocross Action in which he dismisses Alessi as a possible member of Team USA with this comment: “I’m not so sure about what kind of support, equipment-wise, he’d get in Europe. Also, looking at lap times from the Nationals, there are 250 guys going almost as fast as Dungey, and Dungey is going a lot faster than anybody else that he’s racing right now.” To be fair to DeCoster, he made this comment before Washougal and last time I checked, there’s nothing on my wall besides a plaque commemorating me as being a member of the last Team USA to lose the MXoN (Zolder 2003).
But still, I feel like this tosses aside the fact that DeCoster would rather send someone who has never been to the event on a bike he’s not currently racing (one of the 250 guys), than a proven 450 rider who is capable of beating Ryan Dungey. Trust me, even before Washougal, I was saying this. Mike’s been on the podium at Southwick before on a KTM 350, so sand speed (The MXoN will be held at a sand track this year) isn’t an issue. I had a conversation with Genova, and he said he’d be 100 percent behind the team to do whatever it took. If you want more of my opinion, I’d hold the second 450 spot for James Stewart until he figures out if he’s healed up enough. But in the case of what came first, the chicken or the egg, JS7 isn’t going and Roger’s not going to pick him anyways.
Like I said, Roger’s better at this stuff than I am, but if I’m DeCoster I go to Genova and say, “Mike, we need two complete race bikes, a suspension guy from your team and two mechanics to go over there. This is going to cost X. Are you in?” I have no doubt Genova would be in. Mike’s got experience in Europe, the team is behind him and he just beat Ryan Dungey (and has given him his only real competition this summer since Stewart went out), so there you go. Instead, assuming Baggett wins the 250 title, you’re sending Barcia, a rookie to Europe and the MXoN, on a bike that’s had a shit-ton of problems in the sand (Metty running out of gas, Short blowing up in practice, Reed and Barcia DNF’ing last year) and ignoring the fact he hasn’t been on a 450 for over a year? I don’t know man, I hope it all works out!
Andrew Short captured his first overall podium since Thunder Valley at Washougal.
Carl Stone photo
Let’s take a look at the results shall we?
250 Overall Results
1. Justin Barcia 1-2 Hon
2. Eli Tomac 2-3 Hon
3. Blake Baggett 6-1 Kaw
4. Marvin Musquin 3-4 KTM- Musquin was great this weekend but once again barely missed out on the podium. What’s this guy got to do?
5. Ken Roczen 4-7 KTM
6. Blake Wharton 7-6 Suz- Another solid ride for Wharton. That’s two in a row for Purple Rain. The break’s probably coming at a bad time for him.
7. Justin Bogle 9-5 Hon
8. Wil Hahn 5-10 Hon- Hahn was good in the first moto and in the second, it was weird to not see him move up. He kind of just stayed where he was.
9. Ryan Sipes 8-8 Yam- Sipes dropped down at Washougal and will be on the small bike for the rest of the year due to injuries on his team. Sipes practiced on a YZ250 two-stroke to get ready for the race because he doesn’t have a practice bike quite yet. A nice showing, all things considered.
10. Jason Anderson 10-9 Suz- Jason Anderson last year? Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull. Anderson this year? Raiders of the Lost Ark.
11. Malcolm Stewart 11-11 KTM- Mookie’s best race since Thunder Valley, in terms of points scored. That’s right, Thunder Valley seems like two years ago now.
12. Jessy Nelson 13-13 Hon- Sometimes perspective is needed. If I told you that with four rounds to go, a rookie named Jessy Nelson who only has one thumb and was fresh out of amateur racing would be ninth in the points, would you have believed me? Exactly.
13. Travis Baker 14-15 Hon- And what about Baker being in tenth? After a sub-par (for him on that bike) year-and-a-half, I’d say Travis is making a case for himself to go back to TLD for next year.
14. Martin Davalos 18-12 Suz- Davalos came back after being out for a long time and 18-12 is about right. He’ll get better as the series marches on.
15. Killy Rusk 16-16 Hon- Reader Cody says it all in an email to me yesterday- “Matthes, Killy Rusk was top 20 in this week’s race at Washougal. Can you give him some props in your feature more than just his name. Watched him and Eli grow up and battle it out here in Southern Colorado, you knew they both had the ability, he just needs more support. In a box van with just him and his dad.” Good job Killy and Cody!
16. Alex Martin 12-36 Hon- Martin’s team, Eleven10 Mods, is just cursed this year. It’s like they sold their soul last year and in 2012, the rent is due.
17. Tevin Tapia 17-17 KTM- First time all year that Tapia has scored points in both motos- best race of the year for him.
18. Jake Canada 38-14 Hon
19. Ivan Tedesco 15-37 Kaw- Pretty sure Tedesco is going to be out for the rest of the year with a bad knee. MRI readings should be done any day now.
20. Dakota Tedder 19-19 Kaw- 19-19 for twentieth? Man at Millville this would have gotten you an eighth overall!
Martin Davalos returned to action at Washougal and finished 14th overall.
Carl Stone photo
450 Overall
1. Ryan Dungey 2-1 KTM
2. Mike Alessi 1-2 Suz
3. Andrew Short 4-3 Hon- Shorty got back on track with a podium, but he’s going to need some luck to move up any higher in the points than the fourth he’s currently in.
4. Jake Weimer 3-5 Kaw- Weimer fell over in a turn early in the second moto and his overall podium went out the door with that crash.
5. Broc Tickle 6-4 Kaw- Everywhere you go you hear “Tickle to…” rumors. BBMX, H&H, JWR, KTM- it’s all out there.
6. Tommy Hahn 7-7 Hon
7. Kyle Chisholm 8-10 Kaw- The Chiz’s best overall result of the year. He thinks that maybe he’s found a shock that suits him. Let’s hope so!
8. Christian Craig 10-9 Hon- Craig’s getting better and working his way back into shape. This wasn’t a really physically demanding track and was right up Craig’s alley. He’s looking for a ride next year.
9. Weston Peick 9-11 Suz
10. Josh Grant 17-6 Kaw- Props to Grant for getting up in the first moto when he went down hard while running in second. I thought that would be it but he kept fighting and ended up with four points when many others would have packed it in.
11. Justin Brayton 5-36 Hon- Brayton had a crash in the second moto and pulled her in. He’s ok but was shook up from the get-off. Too bad because he was starting to find his groove.
12. Vince Friese 14-14 Suz- Sigh. Friese got into it with Peick in practice and once again claimed he had “no idea” why Weston would be angry or do anything to him. There’s only so many times one can cry wolf before we stop listening.
13. Ben LaMay 12-16 Yam-Great ride for Lamay. Is it just me, or have privateers started to put in some great rides these last couple of weeks? Remember Lamay qualified fast last week, he’s on a roll!
14. Fredrik Noren 22-8 Hon- The Swedish rider has been hurt and just getting back into the swing of things. Let’s put it this way, his eighth in the second moto is by far his best finish in his year-and-a-half on the circuit. Great ride for Noren, who is a really nice guy.
15. Kevin Rookstool 16-13 Hon- Endurocross guy comes back to his roots and puts in a couple of great rides. Who knew?
16. Michael Byrne 13-17 Suz
17. Derek Anderson 19-12 Kaw
18. Mike Brown 11-35 KTM- Brown’s bike broke again in the second moto. Browny’s been pretty good in his return to motocross, and only needs three points to retain his National number 3 for next year. Anyone want to bet he does it?
19. Tyla Rattray 15-18 Kaw- I was up in the Kawi rider lounge after the race and Tyla was seriously depressed. He wasn’t good at Washougal and my jokes about retiring weren’t making the mood any better. Rattray is in talks with Star Valli for a 250SX/450MX ride and has to make some noise. I know he just got back from a long injury layoff but it’s not happening for him as of yet.
20. Les Smith 40-15 KTM- Smith has had a ton of DNF’s and problems with his Dungey-replica KTM. There’s just not enough aftermarket parts out there right now to help the guy out. When he’s holding it together, he’s fine.
Three Yamaha 250s (only one privateer) in the 40-man field is not good for Team Tuning Fork. The bike isn’t that bad, but it’s in dire need of an update from the mothership, and it’s showing at the pro level. I don’t know what Yamaha has up their sleeve but I hope in coming years, it doesn’t involve an oil tank and a carburetor.
“Top” Jimmy Albertson went down hard in the first moto and was KO’d for a little while before eventually getting transported to the hospital and cleared to go home. It was by all accounts a scary crash. Jimmy’s ok, but it was tense there for a little while. Combine that crash with Nick Wey’s Millville crash and long recovery ahead of him, and my favorite riders are taking a beating!
Speaking of favorite riders, Cole Thompson was picked up by the Star Valli Racing guys to move from his privateer Honda 450 to a Yamaha 250 for the rest of the races. Now, to me I might have stayed on the Honda 450 as a privateer. After all, Cole was killing it but then again, Thompson wants a ride in the 250 class next year and was paying for everything out of his pocket so it’s a tough decision. I just know that going from a Honda 450 to a Yamaha 250 in less than a week and adjusting to the new class speed and intensity is a tall order. But nevertheless, Cole’s a Canadian and that’s what we do- adjust.
Cole Thompson suffered a big crash in his Star Valli Rockstar Yamaha debut.
Carl Stone photo
Unfortunately Cole crashed hard in the first moto and was dingy for a while. Since he did it on the first lap, he didn’t get much time on the bike or in that class. In practice, he qualified twelfth, which is pretty good. Let’s hope he comes back after the break feeling fine and much more comfortable to show what he can do.
With the move to Star Valli Racing, there were some contracts in Thompson’s life that he had to sign, which I helped out with a bit. Thanks to Tony Gardea, an agent in the sport, for just giving the Star alli deal a quick looky-loo and making a couple of changes to help Cole and his brother Kyle out in terms of the deal. I felt like a courier out there running back and forth with the contract and getting the changes done from Tony and for Cole. Just the things I do for a Canadian kid that I’d love to see succeed down here.
Thanks for reading, email me at [email protected] and we can chat. No really, please do.
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good stuff- IMO Roger D can make what ever decisions he wants. he has a pretty good track record.
I'm A Roczen fan so it pains me to say this but he's just getting straight up beat fair and square. I'm not buying the excuse that he's new to the tracks. Not uncommon for future champs to come out of the gate winning first season. Poto, RC, Bubba, Reed, many others. They were new to the tracks as well. Baggett, Pornstache, and Tomac are just a smidgen better, plain and simple. If anything I'd say his bike maybe doesn't handle as well as the competition but what do I know I'm just watching from the couch.
An idea for a Des Nations team could be Dungey, Bags and Pornstache ....
But you got to keep 'em separated!
So Washougal should cut down all the trees so there is no shawdows, Bring in all new dirt so there are no rocks and better traction...shoot why not just build a big tent over it so the weather is not a problem. ITS MOTOCROSS DEAL WITH THE CONDITIONS AND STOP WHINNIG
Good stuff Steve..I too would hold a spot for JS on the Nations team, but you say Decoster would not pick him..Why would RD over look James....Alessi would be a tough pic...but he has earned it ...more than JS or RV this year...just hard to imagine RD, Mitch and Tony working together..but you never know..stranger things have happened
Ryan (MX1) and Blake (MX2) I think s/b a done deal. Then James, Justin or Mike (MX3)...I like our chances with any of the 3. My preference would first be James (assuming healthy) - then Justin - then Mike. Surprised to hear (at least in Mathes opinion) that James is out of the running...I guess we have forgotten how (surprisingly - at least for me) fast he was in those first 4 moto's.
The worst thing for Roczen is all the hyped up expectation he is supposed to be living up to. It's stupid. The kid is doing fantastic for a rookie, and he's a rookie not just in the class but in this country and our racing series. He's been on the podium a bunch and is a solid top-5 guy... why the hell isn't that good?? Oh that's right, because the hype was so much higher than that. Sucks for him, he should be able to celebrate how well he is doing and, instead, he's got outdoor depression. That annoying pit reporter ho on tv just loves twisting that hype knife into his back too. And on that note, in moto, chicks should hold up the 30-second board and THATS IT
What alot of people are just straight up ignoring is that JS has not completed a season healthy, in how many seasons? What if he goes out there and does his lawn dart impression in the first race and god forbid, gets hurt. Or races the first race to mediocre results and decides that his wrist injury is not completely healed up yet, or, or, or, or...............That is why DeCoster will not pick him. Roger has been doing this thing longer than any of the "Pros" on these boards. That is good business sense, it is not personal.
Few under 40 got the "King Kenny" reference, but that's the great thing about good writing. Something for everyone.
I don't understand Alessi's antics after the first moto. Dunge gives him the high sign, he waves his hands, cuts him off, Dunge shakes his hand and nods, then Alessi waves his hands again? WTF? Were you hoping to get a hug?
The race is on a sand track they need an MX3 rider and there is not competition there so Barcia is your man. Roger is right the 250s are close to Dungey in times and Mike is not.
Holding a position for Stewart, when he is the lawn dart of the decade, would be simply dumb. Barcia can ride sand and ride it well. Alessi has burned so many bridges in this sport that none of the factories will support him. He would not be a good choice, Roger has that figured out. Let the man and Mitch and the AMA pick the best team and thats Dungey, Bagget, and Barcia right now. If Bagget or Barcia stumbles in the last four then lets go with Tomac.
"Pull the holey and block like a goalie" - Mike Alessi
A bit off-topic... but am I reading the tweets right that both CR22 and RV are back on their bikes this week?
I would support ANY decision Roger makes concerning the Des team. He has totally earned his right to have an opinion, and have it count more than anyone else concerning the team selection. Clearly, Rodger knows what he is doing.
Yes CR22 and Rv are back on the bike, but they will not be racing any time soon. Maybe a couple of the last outdoors, and villo is in for monster cup. Good article, Des nations, dungey, bagget, and if stewart finsishes well, stewart, then barcia then allessi
all those chalkin off Barcia....theres alot or racing yet and the sand of the 'wick' will tell alot...ALOT about who should go...........RV1 and CR22 return...the world is regaining order....the new sheriff is saddling up his pony.....yahooo...
I'm with Browndogg!! F'n let it be with all the crying about the soil and shadows... it gets just as old hearing that as it does all the ridiculous Stewart banter! I'm no fancy journalist who gets all the dirty behind the scenes info you guys do, but it really seemed like in the interviews I heard that most of the riders were diggin' the track. And before I get off my little soapbox, it was not Washougal's call to take out the Chuck Sun/Catchers mitt/Leach's lump section... you can thank the boys and girls at AMA for that fantastic idea as they supposedly needed more real estate for the vendors and sponsors and VIP zones and lemonade stands and all the other real fun stuff that the fans go to the races for! Next time you're in the office, talk to your boy DC and see if he'll let them put it back in... because if they will, I'll be there tomorrow building that shit by hand!
Only 5 months and 2 weeks to A1. RD RV JS CR KW and maybe TC all on the gate again.World order will be back and so will watching a whole mx1 moto.
I would think Barcia would be a good choice for the MX3 at the des. I thought he looked real good at Pala last year. With all the piss and vinegar he has inside of him, looking forward to next year with him on a 450.
@ squid292 BOY! A lot of shit before then........... 2 WILL BE OUT FOR SURE I would not get your hopes up we have an election first......Maybe the new order will declare MX/SX OUT LAWED?
I think we should elect Tonewall new sheriff in town ! the town of midgets.......I love his cameo with the A-STAR's .....HAT LOL
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jsz_qwnznaY
Mike Alessi would do an excellent job for the Red, White and Blue team at the MXdN. You know he is going to get the starts. He has grown into a respectable young man, certainly no punk. That "Believe the Hype" crapola from like 25 years ago had a lot more to do with the old man than the 16 year old kid. Honda might even have a post-Carmichael 450 Championship had they not fired Alessi because of the hype. Old man Alessi should have taken a dump in Kehoe's sneakers. I find it funny watching MA800 smoke all of the Factory Honda boys without any unobtainium. Speaking of which, Yoshi/Suzuki has their heads up their arse. They have two bikes basically collecting dust. Why not let Mike have some parts? If I were Mike G, I would gladly change that black MCR450 into a yellow RMZ450 for little more than a motor, forks, and a shock.
Truth be told, I doubt we can go wrong with the MX3 pick unless they choose somebody named James Stewart. Barcia will get it done. Weimer is proving himself. Tomac will be/is a beast on the 450. I’d put my money on BB12, JB20, and ET17 if that was the MXdN team we choose.
Wouldn't it be cool to see somebody line up on a CR500AF for the MX3 class?
Motocross is so cruel! What have you done lately.........How soon all forget. zero followers........
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I think it is great that the surface is "tricky" and "slippery" and a bit different from every other track. Hooray! The riders are challenged and the fans get to see them adapt or not.
Personally I loved racing at Washougal. I loved the hills and yes, I even thought the dirt was pretty good.
Pornstache will go 1,1 at the Wick .... Stamp it!
I think it would be a shame to change the dirt at Washougal. I prefer to see the riders deal with a range of surfaces. At least it had some soft stuff on top. But hard pack certainly isn't as fun to ride. My last race was in 1976 at Saddleback in So Cal -- they might as well have poured concrete to make that track! At least concrete wouldn't have been as dusty. Even when they watered it for the TRANS-AMA (which I only spectated -- don't get the idea that I was any good), it was still pretty nasty.
Mr 9texlivesmex whatever...your family still owes me for those carnival jobs , a fifty gal drum of lube and a case of Mandigo pickles..........now put your Deegan jammies on and go to bed......Justin Wadd and his stache will prove his sand box skills this weekend...GO JB...GO HAVOC.....the new sheriff is cleanin his guns........
MX3 is a tough pick. Both Barcia and Alessi ride sand well. Maybe Decoster would let MA come along if Tony kept his distance. The only concern I have with Barcia is the bike. Maybe Peick could loan JB his Suzuki. They could put red plastic on it and no one would know the difference.
So....just wondering? RV back on the bike today.....MXoN in a little over two months??? ya think maybe Decoster has fresh memories of the beat down RV laid in the final moto last year and is holding off on any decisions?
Feel free to jump all over me for that one but I wouldn't rule it out!
Barcia finished ahead of MA the fist time he raced a 450 and he was very smooth. He is also turning better laptimes than MA most races on a 250. He also doesnt have than crappy cheating rep that MA has to this day. He has won more in 2 years than MA has in seven. Same could be said for Eli , and RV is back on a bike and has over 2 months to prepare. MA shouldn't even be a question. I say we send true sportsman who win without cheating and represent us well. MA cheats and still doesnt win
Really???!!!!! Are there MX people on this blog that question Roger DeCoster??? This man has forgotten more about MX racing than anyone will ever know. Throw into the decision making process Mitch Payton, and you have TWO highly knowledegable MXperts that this sport has.
DeCoster, who is from Belgium, has taken the American MXdN team management to the level of #1 from the beginning, to current team. His process "ONLY" looks at who can best perform, and win, the MXdN for America again.
All of you who second gues him, and his decision makers, need to stand back and let him do what he is MORE THAN ABLE to do, and that is to choose a winning team, period.
You all want to complain about something, then complain that our political leaders (judicial, executive, legislative) have / are ruining our country in front of our own eyes and WE THE PEOPLE SAY AND DO NOTHING ABOUT IT. That is worth complaining about, not who Roger picks or doesn't pick!!!!!!!!! Man... ya'll open your eyes to what is really important.
@seventys guy......with all due respect....leave the politics blah blah blah to Rush and the other blowhards on some other site.....please. This is one place I come to NOT hear that endless drivel. I think everyone has 3 favorites they would like to see go ...nothing wrong with that ..DeCoster will do the right thing and we will crush those pesky commie foreigners
once again...and thats all the politics i'm interested in......
Villo on CR 22? I THINK IT MIGHT BE TRUE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Sometimes I get carried away, got it......I hear the passion that some racers have about their favorites, and wish they would transfer that passion into something that actually matters and makes a difference.
Thanks for the easy take down..........I'll be good, I promise....Can I get out of the corner and watch some TV now???
@ tonewall LOL ! Hey thats funny when ever you come out of that drug induced coma, or change the oil in your Sphincter read the paper its not even close to August or the eleventh.. Obviously your a west coast strut......... Hard to tell time from that slant...... hey maybe if you start hitch hiking now you may make it for the east coast swing. Its August 11, 2012 ..It always was my favorite ride in the day......Broome was a good rock fest along with Binghampton,Unadilla....... Hey I actually beat Deegan in Mx 1997 second stint. I remember my buddy said he thought he looked like Bevis on Bevis & ButHead.. still does up at Red Bud back in old days.........Guys got the last laugh now....... Lol Hitch Hike my cousin when Eviel Kneivel jumped the snake river canyon first time they took off from Canton Ohio 2 guys and a chick, cousins about 3 months before the jump and made it out there with like $ 100.00 and some weed true story.........No cell in the day but knew martial arts all carried a hand gun.........Those were the days............
Off to the local eatery for a late night snack.......... Chow Mexican taco dog out!
http://instagram.com/p/NhwLCohPXA/
Boards are blowing up as we speak.......
@SeventiesRacer- not all of us were born yesterday!
The results thus far say that Dungey, Baggett and Barcia are the best bet... but if RV decides to race a national or two prior to the MXDN, and can run with Dungey, then it would be tough to argue against Dungey, Baggett and RV.
@Green59- where would you get a crazy thought like that from?
Hmmmm... seems like the mighty KTM's are failing quite frequently as of late. Les Smith's and Mike Brown's bikes last week alone. I realize we are not talking about Dungey's or Kroc's bikes, but seeing more KTM's breaking than the other bikes. Was thinking about buying a KTM 350 but think I'll stick with Suzuki.
@9lives-Mr-Mx- I wouldn't exactly call that blowing up. I have heard a babies fart that makes more noise than that! lol
good one !
If Pornstache reads these posts, I envision some grooming will take place before the Wick. Ha!
Justin Wadds 'stache' is of no concern....and I heard along with the RV to two two rumour (where i also become the pope) that @mr 9texmx has dibs on it if he razors it......wants to rubber cement it on and try to get a part in a "dirty harry remake' as the wacko' who writes some semi-incoherent gibberish about sphincters and hitch-hiking 'cuzins' and in the end steps on Clints lawn and takes one from a 44...the most powerful handgun on the planet...i hope he gets the gig.....@cz mark its two-two's site......i'm not to quick to wear my pope hat yet as I don't see kawi letting him go...they gave up Stewart to keep him and he sells some bikes and wins alot of races and championships...actually every season hes finished hes won....not 2 shabby.....
@tonewall- ya I guess you have to save the pope hat for another day. But I think you are on to something with the 9lives tex-mex wanting to look like Dirk Diggler.
I frogot about all the Honda 450 issues!!! The thing is a time bomb!!!
.I can't believe Rodger will not pick JS. If he does good at Southwick how does he not pic him??
here is one that will get people fired up.
."IF" RV was able to go he gets to Run MX1 and the #1 plate right??
.IMO he should have last year but lots said NO RD won it in 2010 so even though RV won the SX and the outdoor titles he had to run #3 in the MX3 class,,,,WELL RV stoped it last year so all that said that last year must say RV is the winnin of 2011 so he gets the #1 right???
No, dungey does in fact have the ability to force things and make passes happen, he simply CHOSE not too in this case because it wasn't worth it. was there a championship on the line? no. dungey is smart, he's not going to do anything stupid just to get around mike alessi on a meaningless moto.
Friese is a dirty p o s scumbag! He has already ruined careers, and his day will come as well. Motoconcepts is really being hurt bad by giving this d bag a ride and needs to send this loser clown packing! I am confident the day is coming where the industry is finally going to realize this douche is not worth helping, and we will finally not have to deal with looking at his retarded a$$ anymore!
PornStache! That's just damn funny to me. My 2 cents. I do think MA is turning things around, personally I mean (the first moto aftermath at the Wash. is a good example of "still a long way to go") but I don't really don't think he deserves to go to the MxDn.
As for the track conditions at the Wash, I too think it's good to be different. A rider that can adapt and win in a variety of conditions means, to me anyway, they are the best rider. A guy that only wins in sand is good sand rider. A guy that only wins on hardpack, is good on hardpack. But a guy that can win on any surface means they are just plain good and can go fast on whatever surface they are racing on.
Me? I piss and moan when it's muddy.
@ tonewall
YOUR A PIECE OF SLOAN !
@Browndogg I agree dude... leave the dirt. I've been to Washougal a few times as a spectator and the dirt looks MINT! It's nicer than most people's gardens.
The videos from the past weekend look awesome. Washougal always produces some of the best battles - JS7/RC, RV/RD, Barcia/Bagget etc. It's such an awesome track.
I'm living in Germany this year...Lommel is like an hour or so from my house.... I am stressing about the Des Nations team selection a bit. I'm thinking if Stewart looks comfortable on the bike and easily wins the last few nationals of the year, then maybe Decoster picks him.....still worries me though. If RV can ride at all...you probably can't go wrong with him (as long as he feels ready), although I see this as unlikely. Baggett on the 250 is a no brainer. Barcia will be fine on the 450 as he has been able to hop on it before with a few weeks practice and run up front......plus it will be fun to watch him slam a few people who are in the way. There are six or more guys in the 250 class that are going faster than Alessi most of the time....four that always are.
Didn't mean to forget dungey on the 450....is so obvious I forgot to say it!
Say what you want crybabies, haters, strokers of whoever it may be.........all of you who caress "The Man" like he is god (and i do have a lot of respect for him too, just not over the top) need to understand that i think Matthes knows what he is talking about when he says DeCoster is not going to pick JS regardless.......and in my opinion, it is a little bit of a personal thing, think it always has been!! That plus i'm sure he wants his boy RD to be the top dawg and Stewart is the only other guy over here who has a chance to best the Dung right now!! JUst an opinion but i don't think 'The Man" will pick Stewart even if he came out and kicked ass the rest of the season. For that i fart in his general direction....with all due respect of course!!
Call-it: DeCoster will make the best decision for the team. You are an idiot if you think otherwise, do a little research on our des nations record.
@BillC- why would do I get the feeling if RV went to the Des, Dungey would still be captain? Dungey, Alessi, Tomac, Barcia, and Baggett all have been racing their ass off and putting in good results.
@BillC- I cut myself off to soon, anyways I feel the 3 riders selected to go should be from the 5 riders I mentioned.
Wow, way to crap on one of the best tracks on the circuit. I've been racing washougal since 1985 and I have no clue what Matthes or these riders are complaining about with the dirt. The one line stuff is valid, but the dirt, dude get over it. Everyone rides the same track and the same dirt...it's called adapting to your environment. The huffmans do an amazing job, and should be praised, not crapped on like this in the observations write up. Also, what's the deal with 4 different staring gates? since 1985 I know of 3, up top past the whoops there just past the finish line, the one that was a few corners after that one (down at the bottom far corner), and where it is now.
DeCoster is not picking Stewart, Villopoto or Alessi. Get over it, move along.
Alessi is the most deserving of the spot but, the negative history there precludes it.
Stewart is Stewart therefore, DeCoster knows to steer clear of that.
Villopoto is coming off an injury and has missed the entire MX season.
Traditionally, we have chosen from the current season's best performers.
That ain't Stewart and it ain't Villo.
@ BillC, I understand your bias towards Villo but, reverse the situation and imagine me campaigning like that for Dungey......and to run the #1. You'd be laughing your eyes out. I'm not trying to put your idea down, I'm just saying look at the other side of the coin.
The current "popular vote" of Dungey, Baggett, Barcia is pretty solid. I can imagine France, Belgium, Australia, Italy and a bunch of other countries being REAL comfortable with those picks if they were their riders.
If the best riders were picked, the MXoN team should be Dungey, Barcia and Stewart. Barcia has been consistent and holeshotting everything this year, exactly what you need at MXoN from your 250 guy. Also, and this is important, all three guys would have factory level support.
I will be very surprised if politics do not come into into play however. DeCoster gets the chance to say "F-You" to Suzuki by not picking Alessi or Stewart and I seriously doubt Bagget gets overlooked due to Mitch Payton's long standing MXoN support and co-captain status.
Alessi has basically done a good job of stepping up in an injury infested year but if everybody were here we wouldn't be talking about him for anything. He doesn't have the speed to go to mxon. Stewart has consistency issues but he is fast. The big problem is a wrist injury can be very tough to come back from. I thought I read he is supposed to be back for Southwick, we'll see how he does there. Otherwise DeCoster will know the 250 class and if somebody there can step up.
Oh yeah, Suzuki is still stupid for not putting a works bike under Alessi. The buzz and media generated from that alone would justify the expense. Imagine a motorcycle company that needed some hype generated for them (pardon the expression), if it ain't Suzuki, I don't know who it is.
Whoever is calling the shots over there is either too stupid or too scared or too new to make the call.
Suzuki could be hyping the 2013's with #800's performances. Instead, they will be hyping the 2014's with #7's performances next year????
What about selling bikes today?
Stupid or no balls. You decide.
Matthes has the Yamaha situation pretty well nailed.
The 450 is tentatively scheduled to S-can the "revolutionary" reverse-engine program in 2014.
The 250F is still carb-equipped for 2013 and plans for a new 250F design are still waiting to be seen.
Yamaha built the current 250F frame to house F.I. three years ago and we STILL haven't seen the F.I. motor.
Yamaha would have to bring "all-new" 250F AND 450 in one year (2014) and manufacturers rarely release two new bikes simultaneously (budget constraints).
So, Their 450 sucks, they have no factory team, pro racers avoid them like VD, their 250 sucks and it's at least two years away from any glimpse of not sucking. I don't know what their board of directors thinks but, as a fan (not even a Yamaha fan) I think they are doing a great job of selling other companies' bikes.
@ LBiggie, I don't think DeCoster hates Suzuki like some would assume. I think he feels sorry for them if anything.
He stated previously that he wanted to end his career there but, they wouldn't give him a multi-year contract and he had to become a Yoshimura employee (because Suzuki is broke).
I think you're right about Payton / PC ..............UNLESS Barcia wins the title. Then it's Barcia MX2 and ? MX3
Long-story short, I feel supremely confident that we can trust in the man to do the best for Team U.S.A.
As for call-it's comments, I can see he wants Stewart on the line more than he wants a team with stability and consistencey. That seems like the decision making of youthful exuberance.
I would be cool with Alessi MX1, Tomac MX2 & Weimer MX3 if that's what DeCoster wanted.
@carlsbad - I have to agree with you on the Alessi/Suzuki issue. Regardless of their past issue(s), it would be clearly in the best interest of both parties to forgive and forget, and support each other. Alessi could get all of the factory goodies plus contingency money, and Suzuki could get all of the great press for winning on a bike that you can essentially buy off the floor. I asked for insight as to the reason why MotoConcepts doesn't make Mike's bike at least look like a Suzuki but didn't hear any insight or a valid response from anyone. My only thinking is that they are both simply stubborn, letting their emotions get in the way of logical thinking and are both making a poor decision. Makes you question the leadership in these 2 organizations.
czmark Rd should be, But last year RV should have been. thats my point.
carlsbad I am NOT saying RV should go at all, i just asked a question. Last year RV won everything and did not get to ride MX1 with the #1, People said because RD won in 2010 he should get it, so useing the same lodgic RV should get the #1 this year if he goes...right? Thats my point.
Let me add this, IF RV said he was good to go I would take him in a heartbeat over anyone to ride with RD and Baggett.
LBiggie HOW could Baggett get overlooked?? he is the MOST dominant 250 guy in the world right now!!
On the 800 Suzuki thing.... What is the gain?? Mike could win a moto but with JS coming back most likely not and if they do help him they have to deal with Tony...Deal killer. Also if they help him and he still gets beat by RD by 30sec that does not look good. so why risk it?
@call-it: Ha ha ha ha ha. So if I understand correctly, DeCoster is wrong and Matthes is right. Ha ha ha ha ha.
RacerMX264 FACTORIES DONT FORGET.............Its like any employer.Its there way or the Highway!
Carlsbad ...Suzuki doesn't need HYPE...they actually make a fast ,spectacular handling dirt bike and have for a while and they DON'T need the Alessi side show they have Havoc7 for that.( Hows that Dungey replica workin...? ) do you actually think NO ONE KNOWS its a Suzuki...don't be ridiculous and as for press what could possibly be better than there 'non replica anything ' 'privateer bike' still up front still doin it......yeah Yamaha ...don't try anything thing different like monoshocks or powervalves...some stuff works ..some doesn't and four years is up time for the good stuff....
Didnt they choose the team before the nationals were even over, so how can you say that RV should have had the #1 plate when we didnt even know who was gonna win.
@ BillC, I thought Villo was MX1 / #1 last year for MXdN which, IMO, it should have been (again, tradition dictates). My bad. Maybe Decoster / Dungey love affair blurred the issue.
As for Suzuki & #800, any press is good press. Jimmy Weinert said something to that effect years ago and it still stands today (Kardashians are an example). If anybody could use it, it's 'Zook. They need MCR to sign off so they can advertise their bike grabbing silver for the year........a relatively stock bike no less, and #800 could use the contingencey $........if Suzuki could afford to pay it which, is iffy. Suppose Suzuki & MCR sign here, Suzuki gets the media mileage and MCR gets "works bike for a day" for waiving the contingency $. Win-win.
Maybe the motocross industry as a whole needs a universal "TA gag order", sort of like a pre-nup.........if you want to do business with us, sign here.
I'm envisioning a Suzuki "bad guys wear black" motif ad featuring the black fendered 450, kind of like the Yamaha parody ads of the late '90's which, were well recieved.
Tonewall, you are anti-"Carlsbad ideas" most every time. I get it. Agree to disagree.
Everybody knew the astronauts took TANG to the moon but, it didn't stop Tang from advertising the h-e-l-l out of it. My point being, the motocross division of U.S. Suzuki needs some "silver lining" to keep their boat afloat (also known as FUNDING), Otherwise they can just close the Brea office (U.S. Suzuki corporate HQ.) and hand everything to Yosh and go worry about cars and outboard motors. Your idea is to say nothing and "assume" the buying public knows. That's not the way ad departments do things but, you are certainly entitled to that opinion.
As for defending Yamaha's idea to build crap bikes.............too easy. I'll pass, same as the non-Yamaha mounted racers. Pass.....get it, yuk yuk.
Bad_Billy_Robinson...RV won the SX title and had the points lead outdoors, Nothing more the guy could have done up to that point and RD got the MX1 class and the #1 plate.
billC, The lead isnt the title, RD could have pulled it off at the time they chose. he had already been the MX1 guy as well as captain for two years so why not let him continue. It was a hard but fair decision
Bad_Billy_Robinson I am not pissed about it but do feel RV got shortted on that one. I don't think it was a fair decision at all because like I said there was nothing more RV could have done to that point and he still did not get the MX1 ride. You say the lead is not the title but at that point it was all we had and RV was in the lead and also the SX champ. History shows the champ or the guy leading at the time of the pick is MX1 so I believe Rodger let his heart get in the way. And RV proved who the Captain was when they were over there too!!
I would agree with you had RV of had a substatial lead, but that wasnt the case. IMO being captain is more than just being a tiny bit faster
Substatial lead?? sounds like a cop out? I don't remember ever giving a title to the guy in 2nd place because the leader had a small points lead!! Do you? History shows like I said above, The points leader or the champ is MX1, RV was both at the time. Rodger D picked his man RD
I think the way it has been is, the guy at the time of choosing is the MX1 pick not just because of points or title chase leads (suppose Reed or Rattray was leading points) but, because of the potential Team U.S.A. (DeCoster) sees in the candidate. Obviously, there was some favoritism with Dungey being picked MX1 & Capitain (last year) but, not without reason. Dungey has shown he has the chops to carry that luggage time and again. This is of great importance to the team as well. Is Villopoto a bad pick? Absolutely not! I think the "lesser of two evils" mentality was in effect here somewhat.
IMO, Villo should've been MX1 / #1 last year and isn't even in the running this year.
Stewart isn't in the running because there's no "i" in "Team U.S.A."
"Tradition" was that the picks came out after the July 4th weekend but, with a sand race being the focal point, waiting until the 'Wick makes sense. We must keep in mind that not only are riders chosen but, teams as well. They need a reasonable amount of time to commit, prepare, allocate funding, etc. Which, is possibly why all things Suzuki are not an option for DeCoster.
All things considered, we have it pretty easy. Imagine having to go through this with a bunch of moody Frenchmen.........or telling your Dutch MX1 rider that the MX2 rider (Herlings) is the #1?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_Stewart,_Jr.
Are these all of the "Credentials" you speak off?
All of htis Des Nations talk, the US team will be fine with Barcia or Stewart, if Stewie is healthy. He hasnt been very healthy or very dependable, its hard to pick him for an outdoor race, you never know if he will be healthy, much less if he will stay on two wheels. He has shown he will crash on any brand, he has already had a couple of the Suzuki too.
My big gripe here is hearing Matthes say they should bring in new dirt to Washougal. Why?? Why should every track have the same exact dirt and perfect traction?? Every track should have the natural soil of the region the track is located in. That is what makes having the races in different parts of the country great. Different types of dirt at every track. That makes the champion the guy who can ride it all. It makes tire selection and bike set-up important also.. If the dirt at a certain track is slick, well then the riders better have good throttle control. If the track gets hard and blue-grooved, so be it. If the track gets soft and rutted, great. Dont haul in different dirt, if you are going to do that, just hold all 12 rounds at the same place and race them all in one venue..
I guess Roger and mitch thought he was the better captain then. I dont know RD or RV personally, and they do. I know you share a bed with RV so maybe your right??? HAHA J/K had to say it. i know people bust your balls on here for that
LOL I don't swing that way!! Even with RV HAHAHA!!! Like I said I am not pissed that RD got the MX1 but just feel RV earned it last year. Bottom line is we won!!
^^^Right on!! ^^^^
@9Lives-Mr-Mx and others
I understand and appreciate the feedback, but I look at the motocross industry differently that your typical employer. The motocross world changes based on who is running at the front today. Mikey is showing the world that a near-stock Suzuki can beat all the factory boys on any given weekend (except for Dungey, of course). If I were Suzuki, I would throw some factory wizardry Mike's way, provide some contingency, and market the crap out of it. It's the best thing they have going right now. I understand the Tony issue, but they don't have to marry the guy to provide some basic factory support. All Mike and MotoConcepts have to do is put some more yellow on and put a straight jacket on Tony. Problem solved...
I'm with you 100% bd200
There was definitely an art to racing the hard pack.
In my memory banks it seems that all the racers that did well on blue groove did well nearly* everywhere else.
@carlsbad ...you're 'ideas' are at least intelligent enough to disagree with....thats a compliment by the way....but disagree I do sometimes. If Suzuki wants to sell some bikes hear is the UNDENIABLE ANSWER......PUT SOMEBODY REALLY FAST on the 250...PLEASE. A front runner...spend the MONEY...go to Lorettas and get anybody outrageously fast and give em a shot.... the Davalos show is old and Whartons not getting it done. Kroc proved the bike can haul. As for advertising I'd rather have a bike that WORKS rather than what some ad convinces me is great about a bike that DOESN"T....(see modern YZ450f) speaking of the bike that everybody that hated Havoc7 said couldn't be the problem how's Regal makin out on it....and don't think for a minute Yamaha won't now build something spectacular...just look at the past...its there M.O...lets see Suzuki TM400,RM400 RM465 etc honda early USD forks ,1998 aluminum framers,CRF valve trains,,,,kawasaki the entire uni-link line KTM LC4 , twin shocks with only one shock(lots of advertising telling us it was as good as a link... I believe it...lol) ,years of unrideable 2 stroke SX model bikes and CZ125 slow early 250 4strokes....they all have there skeletons in the closet.....not just Yamaha....which honestly an 09 factory YZ450f with Havoc7 on it ,unfashionable carb and all would be right in the hunt this season.........
@ tonewall = dillweed
this is going to be a long few weeks
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CYfEvRWMavQ
Great music Hop sing
@LLAWEiner what an idiot ...don't have any real moto takes......bummer. Do you kids just need somethin to do while mom's workin the pole and uncle jimmys passed out from a 4 day meth binge....and you don't even have the balls to stick with one name....it may surprise you but I think you kids stuff is laffable and actually skip over about half your boring no take stuff.....ps don't live in reno ..don't work on HD's...sorry your not even close ..stalker...@mustard ....no doubt.......
@MustardDog ... Yes, it would seem that way ....
Also, many of the teams appear to need restructuring ... to say the least.. And as far as teams, do not forget about "the new kid on the block" who could do damage based on their first signing of what could be a big name.
WHAT? First, do you remember the last time Roger D was scrutinized for a decision? It was when he went to KTM. How's that working out? Matthes I am disappointing on so many levels here. I tell you what; Line Bacia and Allessi up RIGHT NOW on a 450, 250 or a freaking Honda Trail 90 and Barcia will kick his butt every time! Also, how can anyone possibly expect Decoster to put any faith in Stewart to show up and give his best effort? I'm not a big fan of him but I've seen Barcia ride a 450 and that's who we need to pick.
@ tonewall Mr. Tex Mx told me to tell you to stay away from Del Taco on
3rd Street, Bend, OR Jaxson ya never know when dirty harry might put somethin in the buritto I'll get ahold of you by email at sbcglobal dot net sloan........................see ya sta lker
SpottedMarley In moto the woman are better more competive riders than most men, Browns sucsess proves that. Kenny babe has also proved how useless euro mx is.
Well, my link died! Go to wikipedia and type in James Stewart jr. and it gives you a thorough rundown of his "credentials". Was even shocking for me!
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_Stewart,_Jr.
try this again. Can't deny the WIKI!
Oh well, cut and paste the link, even Wiki is a bubba fan I guess!
@LLAWENOTREGIN.(yeah i read it backwards and your a racist ,we get it ...wow your so clever)..geezus you REALLY are a REAL stalker ...you did this once before it doesn't bother me you THINK you can find me..lol ....big deal ...what a child......put up all you got ..i have nothing to hide and certainly in your case nothing to fear....what a little boy....see on my end I don't care where you live ,what you do or who you actually are....your a racist and a creepy wimpy little internet peeping tom.........Really mr mx9/texmex/scrubwhatever tryin to find peoples real addresses ...thats way creepy dude,,,do you have any restraining orders..seriously get some help...keep it to moto man before you do something you may regret. ..and its been so nice on here lately without this bull ......Dungey Baggett Barcia.....possibly Tomac ...no one else is goin....and thats a bada*s team...KTM Kaw and Honda..redbull monster everyones covered and they haul.....if Mikeys stay on course maybe next year but next year will be tougher.
@tonewall- that is one sick mofo!
Wow guys, why does it have to get weird? Keeping it on MX is really what we're here about. Try not to cuss, be respectful of your neighbor. Isn't that what they taught us in elementary school?
@ tonewall, I don't think Suzuki has the funds to do what you propose. Team Green, Team Factory Connection (GEICO) and now KTM have the grassroots programs that snatch up the amatuer talent before anybody has a chance to bid on them. Besides, Rockstar (I believe it's the old Motosport outlet team) has the Suzuki 250F contract so, Suzuki money will never enter the equasion. Their brightest hope for future success lies with Jason Anderson, Milsaps going to Rockstar and RC & H&H teaming up which, hopefully means Josh Hill will get a semi-decent ride.
As for the YZ450 thing, I'm saying their 2010-current 450 is terrible..........and the 250F too (just not as bad as the 450 in terms of scale in the class). Yamaha got caught with their pants down on the 250F development cycle and the whole reverse engine 450 program. They lapsed a series on the 250F and they're paying the price right now. The 450 was a bad idea but, props to them for trying. It just sucks for Yamaha contracted talent to have to ride the turd for four years until they S-can it. Four years is basically half of a pro's career and they don't have that kind of time to waste. I'll give them this, in a sand race you steer with the rear more than the front and a little front end wag is not the end of the world so, Southwick and MXdN will be Yamaha 450 mounted racers' best chance for a decent showing. The bright side is, Yamaha probably paid out zero contingencey so, they'll have lots of money left over to re-invest in a "conventional" 450.