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MXA TEAM TESTED: RENTHAL GEN2 INTELLILEVER WHAT IS IT? The basic concept is the same as the original Intellilever, but everything else is different about Renthal’s new version of their folding clutch and brake levers. WHAT’S IT COST? $89.95 (brake); $164.95 to $179.95 (clutch). CONTACT? www.renthal.com or (877) 736-8425. WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with the Renthal Gen2 Intellilever. (1) Levers . Renthal trimmed the fat. The latest Intellilever is slimmer and lighter with a more ergonomic shape. They have a laser-etch...
MXA TEAM TESTED: MAX TECH TOYS PSYCHO CYCLE WHAT IS IT? The Psycho Cycle is a remote-control, full-suspension, radio-controlled motocross bike that comes with its own backflip ramp. WHAT’S IT COST? $89.99. CONTACT? www.maxtechtoys.com or (800) 843-6292. WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with the Max Tech Toys Psycho Cycle. (1) Setup. The Psycho Cycle kit includes the Psycho Cycle bike, two-channel remote control, Mega Stunt ramp, 9-volt controller battery and 9.6-volt rechargeable bike battery (with charger). All you have to...
MXA TEAM TESTED: LIGHTSPEED CARBON FIBER KX450F GLIDE PLATE WHAT IS IT? Although manufactured by LightSpeed, the motocross world’s premier carbon fiber supplier, the complete carbon fiber skid plate and case guard were designed by the Pro Circuit race team. It was used on Pro Circuit's KX450F in the 2012 Supercross and AMA National Championships. WHAT’S IT COST? $199.95. CONTACT? www.lightspeedcarbon.com or (714) 990-5767. WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out on the LightSpeed KX450F glide plate system. (1) Fit. We removed the stock glid...
MXA TEAM TESTED: TM DESIGNWORKS KTM SLIDE-N-GLIDE KIT WHAT IS IT? A complete replacement chain guide and swingarm buffer for your KTM 250/350/450SXF, but a super product for Kawasaki KX250/KX450F owners. WHAT’S IT COST? $179.95 (Slide-N-Glide chain guide, swingarm buffer and slide pad), $69.95 (Factory Edition chain guide only). CONTACT? (541) 772-4161 or www.tmdesignworks.com . WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with TM Designworks’ Slide-N-Glide kit. (1) Drag. You probably don’t think of a chain guide as a performance product, but yo...
MXA TEAM TESTED: LEATT BODY VEST ADVENTURE LITE JUNIOR WHAT IS IT? Leatt is committed to protecting action-sports athletes from debilitating injuries. Their latest product, the Body Vest Adventure Lite Junior, is a neck-brace-compliant chest protector for young motocross riders. WHAT’S IT COST? $109.00 (white or black), $129.00 (Cage graphic). CONTACT? (800) 691-3314 or www.leatt.com . WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with the Leatt Adventure Lite Junior chest protector. (1) Safety. Every young dirt bike rider—regardless of whether he...
MXA TEAM TESTED: POD MX K300 KNEE BRACE WHAT IS IT? The K300 is the latest offering from Pod MX. This lower-line knee brace uses the same space-age tendon design and proprietary hinge as the more expensive K700—only it’s easier on the wallet. WHAT’S IT COST? $499.95 (pair), $264.95 (each). CONTACT? www.foxhead.com or (888) 369-7223. WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with the Pod MX K300 knee brace. (1) Frame. The biggest difference between the $424.95 K700 and $264.95 K300 (aside from the price) is the knee brace’...
MXA TEAM TESTED: HJC RPHA-X HELMET WHAT IS IT? Until now, HJC’s most expensive offroad helmet retailed for $145. Not anymore! The RPHA (Revolutionary Performance Helmet Advantage) line is HJC’s new line of helmets designed to bridge the gap between their previous offerings and high-priced, premium helmets. WHAT’S IT COST? $349.99 (solid white), $354.99 (matte black), $359.99 (graphics). CONTACT? www.hjchelmets.com or (562) 407-2186. WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with HJC’s RPHA-X helmet. (1) Construction....
MXA TEAM TESTED: POD MX K700 KNEE BRACE WHAT IS IT? A remake, overhaul and redesign of the original PodMX knee brace. WHAT’S IT COST? The K700 braces sell for $799.95 for the pair or $424.95 each. CONTACT? www.podmx.com or www.foxhead.com/us or (888) 369-7223. WHAT’S IT DO? When the Pod knee brace was introduced to American riders, it changed the dynamic of the knee brace business. Developed by an orthopedic surgeon in Australia, the PodMX knee brace gained phenomenal momentum against its competitors—especially the Asterisk knee brace and CTi...
MXA TEAM TESTED: HOT CAMS SHIM KIT/REFILL PACKS WHAT IS IT? After oil changes, checking valve adjustment is the next step in periodic engine maintenance. Hot Cams’ kit is a convenient and cost-effective product for do-it-yourself engine maintenance. WHAT’S IT COST? $59.95 to $89.95. CONTACT? www.hotcamsinc.com or (515) 402-8005. WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with Hot Cams’ shim kit. (1) Material. Hot Cams’ shims are manufactured from cold-rolled 4140 steel. Most engine builders report that KTM OEM shims wear faster than Japa...
MXA TEAM TESTED: VIRUS STAY COOL FORM COMPRESSION V-NECK WHAT IS IT? The Virus Stay Cool compression V-neck shirt is aimed at keeping muscles warm and less fatigued while keeping the body cool. WHAT’S IT COST? $58.99 (sleeveless), $63.00 (short sleeve). CONTACT? www.virusintl.com or (800) 691-3314. WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with the Virus Stay Cool Form compression V-neck. (1) Concept. Compression clothing is nothing new. The idea of wearing tight material to keep muscles warm and loose during exercise and to aid post-workout rec...
MXA TEAM TESTED: GAERNE COOLMAX MOTOCROSS SOCKS WHAT IS IT? Gaerne’s Coolmax motocross socks are breathable, rugged, knee-high motocross socks. WHAT’S IT COST? $18.95. CONTACT? www.gaerneusa.com or (800) 426-0213. WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with Gaerne Coolmax socks. (1) Feel. Gaerne Coolmax socks are stretchy, breathable, polyester motocross socks that wick sweat away from your skin. This helps keep your feet dry. Dry feet mean that you won’t get blisters on those long days at the track. Plus, on hot d...
MXA TEAM TESTED: TORC1 BRAKE PEDAL WHAT IS IT? The Torc1 pedal is a forged aftermarket brake pedal packed with extra features. WHAT’S IT COST? $99.99. CONTACT? www.torc1racing.com or (661) 505-7114. WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with Torc1’s brake pedal. (1) Construction. Torc1’s brake pedal is forged from 6061 aluminum, then finished on a CNC machine. For added insurance, the pedal comes with a brake snake that tethers the pedal to the bike to prevent it from folding backwards. The pedal’s pivot has a grooved b...
MXA TEAM TESTED: SHORAI KTM 250/350/450SXF LIGHTWEIGHT LITHIUM LFX BATTERY WHAT IS IT? The Shorai battery is 33 ounces lighter than the stock KTM Yuasa YTX battery. It uses lithium iron phosphate technology, instead of the traditional lead-acid construction. The recommended Shorai battery for a KTM motocross bi ke is the LFX14L2-BS12. It has more cranking power than the battery that MXA preferred, the LFX09L2-BS12. Why did we choose the LFX09L2-BS12. ? It was lighter and cheaper. However, even though we had no problems starting our test bikes with this battery, Shorai's ...
MXA TEAM TESTED: FOX RACING V4 HELMET WHAT IS IT? The all-new V4 lid is Fox Racing’s premium race helmet. It is the choice of Ryan Dungey, Chad Reed, Ken Roczen, Ricky Carmichael and Jeff Emig. WHAT’S IT COST? $549.95 (Flight or Future graphic), $574.95 (Monster or Rockstar graphic). CONTACT? (888) 369-7223 or www.foxhead.com . WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with the Fox Racing V4 helmet. (1) Shell. This is not a one-shell-size-fits-all type of helmet. Fox built four individual shell and EPS sizes...
MXA TEAM TESTED: PIRELLI EXTRA X TIRES WHAT IS IT? Pirelli’s idea with the original Extra tire was to sacrifice a degree of pure performance in specific conditions to gain consistency of performance across the board and, most important, to build a durable tire. The Extra X is a newly updated version. WHAT’S IT COST? $105.95 to $132.95, depending on size. CONTACT? www.us.pirelli.com or your local dealer. WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with Pirelli’s Extra X tires. (1) Front tread. The Extra X front tire has a new trea...
MXA TEAM TESTED: TM DESIGNWORKS FRAME COVERAGE SKID PLATE WHAT IS IT? It’s a brand-new plastic skid plate from the company famous for making the world’s most durable chain guides. WHAT’S IT COST? $64.95. CONTACT? (541) 772-4161 or www.tmdesignworks.com . WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with TM Designworks frame coverage skid plate. (1) Construction. TM Designworks’ plastic skid plate is not molded; instead, it is hand-layered and formed to shape. Using forming instead of molding allows for more strength, fewer air pockets and much tight...
MXA TEAM TESTED: BYRNEOS NUT-FLEX PRO TOOL WHAT IS IT? This ByrneOs Nut-Flex Pro tool is a well-built, simple, creative, one-tool-does-it-all, 1/4-inch drive wrench designed by a motorcycle racer. WHAT’S IT COST? $21.95 (8mm/10mm/12mm or 8mm/10mm/13mm). CONTACT? www.byrneos.com . WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with the ByrneOs Nut-Flex Pro tool. (1) All-in-one . You can find 1/4-inch-drive breaker bars in every tool store. However, the ByrneOs (pronounced “burr-nose”) Nut-Flex Pro puts several ne...
MXA TEAM TESTED: TROY LEE DESIGNS CP5955 CHEST PROTECTOR WHAT IS IT? The Troy Lee Designs CP5955 is a Leatt-compatible chest protector that has options aplenty. It’s the do-it-all chest protector. WHAT’S IT COST? $199.00. CONTACT? (951) 371-5219 or www.troyleedesigns.com . WHAT STANDS OUT? Here's a list of things that stand out with the Troy Lee Designs CP5955 chest protector. (1) Technology. Shock Doctor spent over two years developing the CP5955 chest protector. Looking for a worthy company to buy the rights to the CP5955, TLD stepped in...
MXA TEAM TESTED: SCALVINI KTM 125SX PIPE/SILENCER WHAT IS IT? A newly imported, Italian, handmade cone pipe and silencer. WHAT’S IT COST? $279.00 (50cc to 144cc), $329.00 (250cc to 300cc), $175.00 (silencer aluminum/carbon), $225.00 (silencer all carbon). CONTACT? www.scalviniracing.it/eng or (909) 608-0082. WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with Scalvini’s KTM 125SX. (1) Construction. Cone pipes like the Scalvini are painstakingly made by hand. Piece by piece, the steel segments are welded together to shape the expansion chamber;...
MXA TEAM TESTED: CRFSTUFF BLADE 280mm OVERSIZE BRAKE ROTOR WHAT IS IT? When it comes to stopping power, the bigger the rotor the better. A version of this rotor is used by the Geico Honda team. WHAT’S IT COST? $268.00 . CONTACT? www.crfstuff.com or (503) 830-6433 WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with CRFStuff’s Blade 280mm oversize rotor. (1) Construction. The Blade brake rotor is laser-cut and machined from heat-treated, 400-series stainless steel. Its surface is ground to within 8 to 12 thousandths of an inch. The mounting...
MXA TEAM TESTED: DR.D YZ450F ENGINE RELOCATION KIT WHAT IS IT? DR.D’s YZ450F kit moves the 2010–2012 YZ450F engine forward 2.5mm. WHAT’S IT COST? $149.95. CONTACT? www.dubachracing.com or (800) 382-2241. WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with DR.D’s YZ450F engine relocation kit. (1) The problem. The MXA wrecking crew does not subscribe to the idea that there is something drastically wrong with the YZ450F chassis. Most of the YZ-F badmouthing is a result of James Stewart’s numerous crashes while at JGR—but Bubba’s crashes are...
MXA TEAM TESTED: GALFER WAVE SUPERLIGHT OVERSIZE ROTOR KIT WHAT IS IT? A new, lighter, updated version of Galfer’s trademark oversize Wave rotor kit. WHAT’S IT COST? $371.00. CONTACT? www.galferusa.com or (800) 685-6633. WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with Galfer’s Wave Superlight oversize rotor kit. (1) Demand. Galfer listened to feedback from their sponsored race teams, namely Joe Gibbs Racing, who thought the system was too heavy. Brake components are unsprung weight, so lighter brakes help the suspension. In response, Galfer develop...
MXA TEAM TESTED: KITE/EXCEL WHEELSET BY DUBYA WHAT IS IT? Dubya’s new partnership with Kite and Excel has resulted in newly imported Italian hardware. WHAT’S IT COST? $699.00 (complete front), $844.00 (complete rear). CONTACT? www.dubyausa.com or (877) 773-8292. WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with the Kite/Excel wheelset by Dubya. (1) Hubs . Kite’s billet-aluminum, anodized hubs are manufactured in Mandello Del Lario, Italy. Dubya is also the Talon hub importer, giving them two price ranges. (2) Bearings. Kite h...
MXA TEAM TESTED: TCR BILLET HUBS & COMPLETE WHEELS WHAT IS IT? TCR Wheels originally built custom race wheels by taking stock hubs and turning them down on a mill. The result was a lighter-than-stock hub that could be anodized and laced to any rim. Now, TCR has built their own line of CNC-machined billet hubs to grab a bigger share of the motocross wheel market. WHAT’S IT COST? $315.72 (front hub), $426.87 (rear hub), $596.95 (complete front wheel laced to DID LTX rims), $708.95 (complete rear wheel laced to DID LTX rims). CONTACT ? www.tcrhubs.com or (...
MXA TEAM TESTED: MOTION PRO TITAN THROTTLE TUBE WHAT IS IT? Motion Pro’s attempt to make the toughest throttle tube on the market. WHAT’S IT COST? $24.99. CONTACT? www.motionpro.com or (650) 594-9600. WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with Motion Pro’s Titan throttle tube. (1) Lineup. Motion Pro’s nylon composite OEM replacement throttle tube retails for $10.99, but they knew they could make something stronger. Motion Pro tested many different materials by hitting them with hammers and dropping weights on them before deciding on...
MXA TEAM TESTED: GOPRO HD HERO2 VIDEO CAMERA WHAT IS IT? GoPro is the preeminent first-person action video camera company in the world. The HD Hero2 has high-definition capabilities for an incredibly clear and vibrant picture, as well as numerous settings for recording video and shooting photos. WHAT’S IT COST? $299.99 (camera), $79.99 (LCD BacPac). CONTACT? www.gopro.com or (888) 600-4659. WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with the GoPro HD Hero2 video camera. (1) Camera. The HD Hero2 is a do-it-all video camera. It records ...
MXA TEAM TESTED: 100% RACECRAFT GOGGLE WHAT IS IT? The Racecraft goggle is the cream of the 100% crop. It boasts an outrigger frame design, expansive peripheral vision, a nose guard and plenty of extras. WHAT’S IT COST? $65.00 to $75.00. CONTACT? (619) 876-4202 or www.ride100percent.com . WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with the 100% Racecraft goggle. (1) Outriggers. 100% makes two models, the lower-line Accuri and the self-described Racecraft. Although both goggles share the same frame shape, the Racecraft has outrig...
MXA TEAM TESTED: DRIFT HD POV VIDEO CAMERA WHAT IS IT? Drift is the latest player in the first-person-point-of-view video-camera market. WHAT’S IT COST? $369.00. CONTACT? Visit www.driftinnovation.com to find the nearest dealer. WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with the Drift HD POV video camera. (1) Lens. Like most first-person-point-of-view cameras, the Drift HD lens covers a wide, 170-degree plane. This perspective creates a fisheye effect that, while not favored by the video purist, does a commendable job of showing a ...
MXA TEAM TESTED: TROY LEE DESIGNS CATALYST X KNEE BRACE WHAT IS IT? Developed by Troy Lee Designs and VQ OrthoCare, the Catalyst X is an affordable knee brace built for serious riders. WHAT’S IT COST? $300 (each); $550.00 (pair). CONTACT? (951) 371-5219 or www.troyleedesigns.com . WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with the Troy Lee Designs Catalyst X knee brace. (1) Frame. Composed of 7000 series aluminum, the Catalyst X is durable and extremely light. We were able to flex the frame under a heavy load, but the frame maintained its...
MXA TEAM TESTED: CYCRA YZ450F SPEED ARMOR SKID PLATE WHAT IS IT? The Speed Armor skid plate is a low-cost, injection-molded, plastic skid plate for riders who want a simpler and cheaper skid plate. WHAT’S IT COST? $42.95 (skid plate), $12.95 (12 extra zip-ties). CONTACT? www.cycraracing.com or (740) 929-0188. WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with Cycra’s Speed Armor skid plate. (1) Function. Different bikes come with varying levels of center/side-case coverage. The Cycra Speed Armor protects the frame cradle and provides full-length...
MXA TEAM TESTED: RIDE ENGINEERING KX450F 21.5MM OFFSET TRIPLE CLAMP WHAT IS IT? A new weapon in the battle to solve front-end understeer on the Kawasaki KX450F. WHAT’S IT COST? $449.90. CONTACT? www.ride-engineering.com or (800) 805-1516. WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with the Ride Engineering KX450F 21.5mm offset triple clamp. (1) Offset. For many years, the MXA wrecking crew has tinkered with different triple-clamp offsets for the Kawasaki KX450F—and for good reason. With a front end that habitually understeers from center-...
MXA TEAM TESTED: RXR STRONGFLEX ASA PROTECTOR WHAT IS IT? The RXR Strongflex works like a typical chest protector, but with the added advantage of built-in airbags. WHAT’S IT COST? $289.99, $54.99 (sticker kit). CONTACT? www.rxrprotect.com . WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with RXR’s Strongflex ASA body armor. (1) Construction. The heart of the RXR Strongflex chest protector is the labyrinth air bladders in the front and back panels. The complex shape of the bladders is designed to maximize the cushioning effect of the air m...
MXA TEAM TESTED: PIRELLI SCORPION MX MID-HARD 554 WHAT IS IT? Pirelli has revamped their Scorpion MX line with changes to the Hard 486, Mid-Hard 554, Mid-Soft 32 and Soft 410. Since the MXA wrecking crew typically races on hard-to-intermediate SoCal dirt, we wanted to try the new Mid-Hard 554. WHAT’S IT COST? $107.00 to $127.00. CONTACT? www.pirellimoto.com , (800) 747-3554, or have your dealer call Parts Unlimited or Western Powersports. WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with Pirelli’s Mid-Hard 554 tires. (1) Tire updates. On bot...
MXA TEAM TESTED: CANOPY COOL BL-1 PORTABLE MISTER SYSTEM WHAT IS IT? A portable misting system that runs off your truck’s cigarette lighter and makes the hottest day feel cool. If you race where it is hot, you need this. WHAT’S IT COST? $219.95 (10-nozzle system-as tested), $179.95 (six-nozzle system), $279.95 (10-nozzle system with 11-hour battery power), $299.95 (10-nozzle system with 20-hour battery power). CONTACT? www.canopycool.com or (503) 391-9473. WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with the Canopy Cool BL-1 portable misting syste...
MXA TEAM TESTED: ROLLON LIGHTNING THROTTLE WHAT IS IT? The RollOn Lightning throttle is a replacement throttle tube that is designed to move more cable per degree of rotation for a quicker response. WHAT’S IT COST? $37.50. CONTACT? www.rollonthrottle.com or (864) 855-7101. WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with RollOn’s Lightning throttle tube. (1) Options. The Lightning throttle tube is available on Honda, KTM, Kawasaki, Yamaha or Suzuki models for two-strokes (single cable) or four-strokes. There are also slow-turning and...
MXA TEAM TESTED: RIDE ENGINEERING HOLESHOT DEVICE KIT WHAT IS IT? Ride Engineering’s holeshot device is a simple hook that turns your bike into a drag racer for the start of races. WHAT’S IT COST? $69.95 (holeshot device), $29.95 (protector support kit). CONTACT? www.ride-engineering.com or (800) 805-1516. WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with Ride Engineering’s holeshot device and protector support kit. (1) Design. The award for holeshot-device simplicity goes to Ride Engineering. Their holeshot device is an aluminum hook clam...
MXA TEAM TESTED: 100% ACCURI GOGGLE WHAT IS IT? Although 100% is an old name from the glory days of motocross history, it is new to the goggle business. The 100% Accuri is the lower-line model of 100%’s two-model goggle lineup. The Racecraft goggle is the high-end spread. WHAT’S IT COST? $45.00 (clear lens) , $60.00 (chrome lens and extra clear lens) . CONTACT? www.ride100percent.com or (619) 876-4202. WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with the 100% Accuri goggle. (1) Frame. Both 100% goggles have a unique frame shap...
MXA TEAM TESTED: KREFT KTM 250/300 POWERDIAL POWER-VALVE ADJUSTER WHAT IS IT? The Kreft PowerDial is an easy-to-install KTM 250/300 power-valve adjuster. It replaces the stock KTM system so that adjustments can be made in seconds. WHAT’S IT COST? $89.95. CONTACT? www.kreftmoto.com or (970) 403-2715. WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with the Kreft PowerDial. (1) Function. The Kreft PowerDial makes it possible to adjust the spring preload on the KTM 250/300 power valve without tools. In fact, we could pull over to the side of the track and adjust ...
MXA TEAM TESTED: DIRT TRICKS BRAKE ROTORS WHAT IS IT? Dirt Tricks brake rotors are made in the USA and come in stock diameters. WHAT’S IT COST? $114.95 (front or rear); $5.99 (disc brake bolt kit). CONTACT? www.dirttricks.com or (775) 267-6361. WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with the Dirt Tricks brake rotors. (1) Construction. Dirt Tricks starts out with a proprietary alloy steel that was developed at their parent company, which produces seamless rolled rings for aircraft components. The secret-recipe alloy is heat-trea...
MXA TEAM TESTED: O’NEAL HARDWEAR MIXXER GEAR WHAT IS IT? The Hardwear gear is the cream of the O’Neal crop. WHAT’S IT COST? $159.99 (pant), $54.99 (jersey), $29.99 (Jump glove). CONTACT? (800) 326-6325 or www.oneal.com . WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with the O’Neal Hardwear Mixxer gear. (1) Pants. The Hardwear pants come fully loaded. Don’t believe us? Both knees have thick leather panels to ward off scalding exhaust pipes. A built-in, adjustable nylon belt guarantees that the pants won’t slide down. The high-wear areas ...
MXA TEAM TESTED: PC RACING NEOPRENE FORK SKINS WHAT IS IT? PC Racing fork skins are neoprene sleeves that fit over your fork seals to prevent contamination and extend the life of your seals. WHAT’S IT COST? $19.95. CONTACT? www.pcracingusa.com or (951) 698-4962. WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with PC Racing fork skins. (1) The dilemma . One of the major goals of every suspension designer, whether he is at Showa, Kayaba, WP, Ohlins or Marzocchi, is to reduce stiction (static friction). Static friction—caused by the mec...
MXA TEAM TESTED: REPLAY XD1080 VIDEO CAMERA WHAT IS IT? The Replay XD1080 is a high-definition video camera designed to withstand the rigors of motocross and capture first-person footage. WHAT’S IT COST? $299.99. CONTACT? (805) 480-9800 or www.replayxd.com . WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with the Replay XD1080 video camera. (1) Durability. The XD1080 tips the scales at a mere 3 ounces due to a lightweight aluminum body. Unlike a GoPro camera, the Replay doesn’t need an external, weatherproof case. This is both a p...
MXA TEAM TESTED: MOOSE 7-1/2-FOOT ALUMINUM FOLDING RAMP WHAT IS IT? It’s a mid-sized, do-it-all folding ramp specifically designed for dirt bikes. WHAT’S IT COST? $95.95. CONTACT? www.mooseracing.com or your local Parts Unlimited dealer. WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with Moose’s aluminum folding ramp. (1) Lineup. Moose’s own line of ramps exemplifies the typical options on the market. They also have a 6-foot, non-folding ramp; a 7.5-foot, arched ramp; and a 9-foot ramp. Moose’s aluminum folding ramp is called the “straight” ramp be...
MXA TEAM TESTED: MOTION PRO RIM SHIELD WHAT IS IT? Motion Pro rim shields are designed to protect your expensive rims from the gashes of tire irons when mounting new sneakers. WHAT’S IT COST? $9.99 (pair). CONTACT? www.motionpro.com or your local dealer. WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with Motion Pro’s rim shield (1) Necessity. Tire irons are forged steel, and they can really do a number on the softer material of aluminum rims—especially black anodized rims. Motion Pro rim shields are hard plastic covers that wrap co...
MXA TEAM TESTED: "THE GREAT OUTDOORS: TEN” DVD WHAT IS IT? The yearly 90-minute review of the 2011 AMA 250/450 National Championship from the men who brought you The Great Outdoors. This is the 16th video in The Great Outdoors collection. (Although it is only called “Ten” because they aren’t counting all the special editions.) WHAT’S IT COST? $24.95. CONTACT? www.tgomx.com . WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with "The Great Outdoors: Ten" DVD. (1) Critics’ review. Last year we were less than thrilled with "The Great Outdoors: N...
MXA TEAM TESTED: YOSHIMURA KX250F RS-4D EXHAUST SYSTEM WHAT IS IT? It’s an exhaust system with two muffler cores. It was only available for Hondas and Suzukis in its 2011 debut year, so the KX250F system is brand new. WHAT’S IT COST? $1095.00 (carbon), $1045.00 (titanium). CONTACT? www.yoshimura-rd.com or (800) 634-9166. WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with Yoshimura’s 2012 KX250F RS-4D exhaust system. (1) Construction . Yoshimura offers two different types of mufflers, the RS-4 and RS-4D. The “D” stands for “dual core.” A traditiona...
MXA TEAM TESTED: K&N YZ450F YA-4510 AIR FILTER WHAT IS IT? The pancake foam filter is not one of the best features of the 2010–2012 Yamaha YZ450Fs. K&N’s molded, rubber-framed, washable, reusable, YA-4510 fabric air filter tries to solve the YZ450F’s problems. WHAT’S IT COST? $65.00. CONTACT? www.knfilters.com or (800) 858-3333. WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with K&N’s YZ450F air filter. (1) Construction . A fabric filter is an entirely different animal from the typical foam air filter. Instead of oil-soaked reticul...
MXA TEAM TESTED: JETT J1 PRO BOOT WHAT IS IT? A premium bootie version of the J1 Jett boot. WHAT’S IT COST? $449.99 (Jett J1 Pro with bootie), $399.99 (Jett J1 boot without bootie). CONTACT? (661) 775-0571 or www.jettboots.com . WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with Jett’s J1 Pro boot. (1) Development. The molds required to make a plastic boot are very expensive, which is why all-plastic boots disappear if they make any mistakes in their design. Jett, on the other hand, is already on their sixth-generation J1 mode...
MXA TEAM TESTED: ARC MNEMLON COMPOSITE FOLDING LEVERS WHAT IS IT? With his first offering of composite levers, ARC’s Bob Barnett convinced us that he had a winning idea—even though we broke the levers. Bob kept working on the durability issues and believes that he has finally come up with the ultimate design. WHAT’S IT COST? $69.95 (lever only), $189.95 (lever and RC-8 perch). CONTACT? www.arclevers.com or (714) 543-0362. WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with ARC’s Mnemlon composite levers. (1) Materials. The only update for this lev...
MXA TEAM TESTED: MOTO TASSINARI AIR4ORCE TUNABLE INTAKE SYSTEM WHAT IS IT? The Moto Tassinari Air4orce is a replacement air boot that fits between your engine’s throttle body and the airbox. The Air4orce air boot has its own proprietary shape, plus two removable velocity stacks that allow you to tune the power. WHAT’S IT COST? $298.00. CONTACT? www.mototassinari.com or (603) 298-6646. WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with Moto Tassinari’s Air4orce intake system . (1) Velocity stack. A velocity stack is a trumpet-shaped tube that guides a...
MXA TEAM TESTED: KITE PERFORMANCE FOOTPEGS WHAT IS IT? Kite Performance footpegs are Italian-made, billet aluminum footpegs with replaceable steel teeth. WHAT’S IT COST? $189.95. CONTACT? www.dubyausa.com or (714) 279-0200. WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with Kite Performance footpegs. (1) Who is Kite? Kite Performance is an Italian moto company that makes a wide variety of billet aluminum hard parts, including hubs, triple clamps and a selection of colorful trickery in between. Kite products have only recently become av...
MXA TEAM TESTED: ALPINESTARS XL TRANSITION GEAR BAG WHAT IS IT? Part of Alpinestars’ new “technical collection,” this gear bag is designed to hold everything a motocross racer might want to haul to the track. WHAT’S IT COST? $219.95. CONTACT? www.alpinestars.com or (800) 727-8277. WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with Alpinestars’ XL Transition gear bag. (1) Space. The Alpinestars XL Transition gear bag is cavernous. At 34.5 inches by 16.5 inches by 17.5 inches, the Transition holds over 40 gallons of stuff. On each end are compart...
MXA TEAM TESTED: LEATT ADVENTURE LITE CHEST PROTECTOR WHAT IS IT? The Leatt Adventure Lite isn’t a conventional chest protector; it’s a roost deflector that is tailor-made to work with a Leatt neck brace. WHAT’S IT COST? $95.00 (black or white), $129.00 (graphics). CONTACT? www.leatt-brace.com or (800) 691-3314. WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with the Leatt Adventure Lite chest protector. (1) Functionality. The days of using a hacksaw to customize a chest protector so that it is compatible with a neck brace are (thankfully) long go...
MXA TEAM TESTED: WORKS CONNECTION TACH/HOUR METER WHAT IS IT? How long do you think you ride your bike on the weekends? Three hours? Four hours? Guess again. It’s less than you think. How much less? Works Connection offers an engine timer that will reveal the truth. WHAT’S IT COST? $37.95 (hour meter with tach), $14.95 (mounting bracket). CONTACT? www.worksconnection.com or (530) 642-9488. WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with Works Connection’s tach/hour meter. (1) Size. The Works Connection hour meter is about half the size of ...
MXA TEAM TESTED: MOOSE SAHARA GEAR WHAT IS IT? Moose’s super-ventilated gear combo is designed to handle the scorching heat of summer. WHAT’S IT COST? $119.95 (pants), $44.95 (jersey), $29.95 (gloves) CONTACT? www.mooseracing.com or your local dealer. WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with the Moose Sahara gear. (1) Ventilation. The Sahara gear has six different types of vented panels. Each is designed to block roost, maintain strength and flow as much air as possible. Moose left no stone unturn...
MXA TEAM TESTED: ATLAS NECK BRACE WHAT IS IT? Atlas is the latest company to design, develop and sell a neck brace in what is a hotly contested and relatively new market. WHAT’S IT COST? $299.00. CONTACT? www.atlasbrace.com or (661) 505-4407 . WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with the Atlas neck brace. (1) Concept. The Atlas neck brace is the brainchild of former professional racer Brady Sheren. Brady believes in neck-brace protection, but he thought that he could create a better design than what was being ...
MXA TEAM TESTED: YOSHIMURA 2011-2012 CRF450 RS-4D EXHAUST WHAT IS IT? The Yoshimura RS-4D uses the same basic design and dimensions as their standard RS-4 system, but with the addition of a unique dual-core muffler design. WHAT’S IT COST? $1045 (titanium with carbon end cap), $1095 (titanium with carbon canister and end cap). CONTACT? www.yoshimura-rd.com or (800) 634-9166. WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with the Yoshimura CRF450 RS-4D exhaust. (1) Development. Yoshimura is the official exhaust supplier to Team Suzuki and Team Honda, w...
MXA TEAM TESTED: SPLITSTREAM FUEL FILTER WHAT IS IT? It's a sock-like, 25-micron, nylon fuel filter that hangs from the filler hole of the fuel tank to strain out dirt and debris that could clog the injector or fuel pump of a fuel-injected bike . WHAT’S IT COST? $29.95. CONTACT? www.split-stream.com or (503) 830-6433. WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with Splitstream’s fuel filter. (1) Dirt invasion. Look in the bottom of that trusty old gas can that you have been taking to the track for years and you’re sure to find a f...
MXA TEAM TESTED: CV4 HIGH-PRESSURE RADIATOR CAP WHAT IS IT? CV4’s radiator cap increases the boiling point of the water in your bike’s radiator by increasing the amount of pressure. The radiator cap actually increases the boiling point of your coolant by about 45 degrees Fahrenheit (25 degrees Celsius). How does this simple cap do this? WHAT’S IT COST? $21.95 (Japanese brands), $28.95 (KTM and Husaberg). CONTACT? www.cvproducts.com or your local dealer. WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with CV4’s high-pressure radiator cap. (1)...
MXA TEAM TESTED: EVS RS8 PRO KNEE BRACE WHAT IS IT? The original EVS Sports RS8 knee brace hit the market two years ago and received good reviews. In fact, the RS8 got kudos from the MXA wrecking crew. Our major qualm, though, was the lack of extensive knee-support reinforcement. EVS Sports answered the call by adding carbon fiber torsion struts to the RS8 Pro to improve rigidity. WHAT’S IT COST? $249.00 (single), $479.00 (pair). CONTACT? (888) 873-8423 or www.evs-sports.com . WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with the E...