MOTOCROSS ACTION’S WEEKEND NEWS ROUND-UP: BREAKING CONTRACTS, NEW ENDUROCROSS WINNER, INDUSTRY JOB & RYAN SIPES QUITS


                                       
RYAN SIPES CALLS IT QUITS IN MOTOCROSS…WILL PROBABLY GO OFFROAD

                                       
ROCKSTAR TO BE TITLE SPONSOR OF 2014 CANADIAN NATIONALS

The 2014 Canadian National Motocross Championships will be sponsored by Rockstar and become the 2014 Rockstar Energy Drink Motocross Nationals. “I am very excited about the new relationship we have developed with Rockstar Energy Drink, and I look forward to working closely with their team,” stated Mark Stallybrass, CMRC President. “Our friends at Rockstar are very enthused about the sponsorship of this property and are anxious to promote series growth and attract a wider following of the Motocross Nationals and the Rockstar Energy Drink line of beverages.”

The 22nd Annual “Rockstar Energy Drink Motocross Nationals” will expand to ten rounds in 2014, and will feature top Canadian and international riders including returning champion Brett Metcalfe, Bobby Kiniry, Colton Facciotti and Tyler Medaglia.  Plans are already underway to create more enthusiasm to catch the attention of an expanded fan base with new, exciting attractions which will benefit the teams, riders, industry and most importantly, the spectators.

                                       
ROBBY BELL ICES WORCS SERIES AT FINAL ROUND IN PRIMM, NEVADA

Robby Bell?2013 WORCS Champion.

Although Robby Bell had already clinched the 2013 WORCS Championship, he won the final race of the 9 race series to put a cherry on top of a series that saw Bell win 4 rounds, finished second in 4 more and only finished out of the top five once. Bobby Garrison finished 5 points ahead of Justin Jones in the battle for second overall. In an unusual note, 61-year-old Gary Jones raced the Pro class in Primm, Nevada. The four-time 250 National Motocross Champion couldn’t run the pace of his younger competitors, including that of his son Justin, but he did finish sixth overall and scored WORCS points. Jones is prepping to defend his Over-60 World Vet Motocross Championship on November 2-3 at Glen Helen. Jones is the only rider to have won World Vet titles in the Over-30, Over-40, Over-50 and Over-60 classes.

WORCS RESULTS: PRIMM, NEVADA
1. Robby Bell………Kaw
2. Bobby Garrison…Kaw
3. Justin Jones……..KTM
4. Justin Seeds…….Kaw
5. Tyler Renshaw…Kaw
6. Gary Jones………Hon

FINAL 2013 WORCS CHAMPIONSHIP POINTS STANDINGS
1. Robby Bell…………..202
2. Bobby Garrison……170
3. Justin Jones…………165
4. Justin Seeds………..133
5. Gary Sutherlin………103
6. Taylor Robert……….75
7. Tyler Renshaw……..64
8. Ryan Abbatoye……..54
9. Jacob Argubright……22
10. Brett Metcalfe………20

                                       
AUSTRALIA RELEASES ITS 2014 NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP SCHEDULE

The 2014 Australian National Motocross Championship schedule has been released. The ten round series will included 250 and 450 classes at all rounds, Under-19 classes in 8 rounds and Vets at two rounds..

2014 AUSTRALIAN NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP SCHEDULE
March 30…………Broadford, Vic
April 13…………..Appin, NSW
April 27…………..Wonthaggi, Vic
May 18…………….Murray Bridge, SA
May 25…………….Waneroo, WA
June 29…………….Conondale, QLD
July 13…………….Swan Hill, VIC
August 3………….Raymond Terrace, NSW
August 24…………Gladstone, QLD
August 31…………Coolum, QLD

                                       
SHOCKER! TADDY DOESN’T WIN IN DENVER: CODY WEBB TAKES FIRST-EVER ENDUROCROSS VICTORY

Mike Brown still leads the points standings, but Taddy Blazusiak is getting closer. Photo: Chrissy Brosius

RESULTS DENVER MAIN EVENT:
1. Cody Webb………….Bet
2. Taddy Blazusiak……KTM
3. Taylor Robert……….Kaw
4. Mike Brown………….KTM
5. Colton Haaker……….Hon
6. Kyle Redmond……..KTM
7. Justin Soule………….Kaw
8. Cory Graffunder…….Hus
9. Destry Abbott………..Kaw
10. Geoff Aaron………….KTM

2013 ENDUROCROSS POINTS STANDINGS
(After 4 of 6 rounds)
1. Mike Brown………..90
2. Taddy Blazusiak….87
3. Taylor Robert……..75
4. Colton Haaker…….68
5. Cody Webb………..63

                                       
WANNA SEE WHAT AUSSIE SUPERCROSS LOOKS LIKE…PLUS A JOSH HILL VICTORY CELEBRATION

                                       
SHOCKER! MAYBE THE SILLY SEASON ISN’T OVER YET!

Even though every seat is filled at the major teams for 2014, reliable sources report that some rider’s agents are still fishing around for better deals for their clients at different teams. Since no riders have actually jumped ship yet?we will not mention names or teams, but trust us this is an ongoing battle. It is important to note that riders with signed 2014 contracts put themselves in a ticklish position if they jump binding contracts and sign with another team.

Most hardcore fans remember back to 1999 when Kevin Windham broke his Yamaha contract and moved to Team Honda. Yamaha sued Windham and after a lengthy legal wrangle Windham reportedly had to pay Yamaha’s legal fees and a healthy penalty. There was even the threat of Yamaha filing a temporary restraining order against Windham on the starting line at Anaheim 1, but that didn’t happen. The lawsuit did, however, mess with his head for all of 1999.

Riders who faced stiff penalties for contract violations in the past allegedly include Ricky Johnson and Brad Lackey.

Under Federal law it is illegal to encouraged a person with a valid contract to breach that employment contract. This legal remedy is most commonly used in the software business, where, if one software company tries to induce another company’s contracted employee to leave that company for theirs, they are liable in tort for inducing a “breach of contract” by said employee. The courts take stealing employees (those with specific written agreements in place) from another company seriously. This does not apply to contracted employees who’s contracts expire before they go to work for another firm or to “at will” employees who do not have written contracts with specific time frames. Legal proceedings can be taken against both the employee and their new poaching employer for “restraint of trade” and breach of contract (as well those who induce and encourage such breach?i.e., agents).

Historically, motorcycle manufacturers, save for Yamaha in the Windham case, have not sued riders who break their contracts (and obviously Yamaha did not sue Honda back in 1999). However, the manufacturers and race teams have the right and legal might to seek legal relief. And word from this year’s inner sanctums is that they will sue this time if push comes to shove.

                                       
TROY LEE DESIGNS SIGNS MALCOLM STEWART FOR THE 2014 SEASON

Malcolm and Troy.

Press release: Troy Lee Designs / Lucas Oil / Honda is pleased to announce that Malcolm Stewart has signed with the team for the 2014 season. Malcolm made his TLD debut as a replacement rider at the Lucas Oil Pro Motocross National opener at Hangtown this past May. He demonstrated a lot of promise on the 450 showing both the speed and the desire to run up front. The highlight of the summer was his moto 2 podium at Budds Creek, where he finished a career best 4th overall for the day. “We were working closely with his brother James and his family on a different project and got to know Malcolm personally. He’s a good kid and lots of fun to be around. I feel that he’s a good fit for the team,” said Troy Lee.

                                       
WANT A JOB IN THE INDUSTRY? 6D HELMETS IS HIRING

6D Helmets, the industry’s helmet technology leader, is growing rapidly and has career opportunities for select positions within the company relating to Purchasing, Project Management and Sales. Ideal candidates will possess skills in international purchasing dynamics and logistics, engineering project management, and possess a strong work ethic and an interest in making a difference. Qualified interested parties should direct a resume including salary history and references to [email protected]

                                       
HONDA UNVEILS ITS NEW CRF450 DAKAR RALLY RACER: THEY WANT TO TAKE ON KTM

                                       
THIS WEEK’S BIRTHDAY BOYS

Oct. 12…Cody Cooper 1983
Oct. 13…Mike Shield


Oct. 13…Greg Albertyn 1972
Oct. 14…Todd Lentz


Oct. 14…Ron Joynt


Oct. 15…Matt Walker 1981

 
Oct. 16…P.J. Larsen 1990


Oct. 17…Torsten Hallman 1939


Oct. 17…Evel Knievel 1938

                                       
POD KNEE BRACES SWITCHES DISTRIBUTORS TO WESTERN POWER SPORTS


Pod K700 knee braces.

Pod knee braces has chosen to part ways with their current distributor and partner with the WPS/Fly Racing team as of November 1, 2013. The move gives Pod knee braces a five warehouse distribution system and excellent WPS customer support. For more info go to www.podactive.com.

                                       
KTM MOTO TOUR ON MONDAY, OCTOBER 21 AT GLEN HELEN RACEWAY


You have to sign up at your local KTM dealer to get a voucher to ride for free. Try Malcolm Smith Motorsports at (951) 687-1300.

                                       
REM OCTOBERCROSS ON OCTOBER 26 AT GLEN HELEN RACEWAY


The Octobercross will be held on the World Vet track and will be the first time anyone races on the new layout. For more info go to www.remsatmx.com

                                       
USED IT, ABUSED IT, TESTED IT: SUOMY JUMP HELMET

The Suomy MX Jump helmet weighs a mere two pounds, nine ounces (with graphics). That is almost a pound lighter than the most helmets and a half pound less than most high-end premium helmets (which typically weigh three pounds, three ounces). Suomy was able to knock weight off the MX Jump by using a fiberglass composite shell, dual density foam, lightweight liner and grooved channels in the EPS interior. There aren’t any gaudy wings or accents to add unnecessary weight.

VERDICT: MXA test riders were impressed with the fit and feel of the MX Jump. Not a single rider complained about pressure point problems. The Suomy helmet surrounds the head well, although it doesn’t have the form-fitting feel of a Shoei, Arai or Fly. The MX Jump is in a league of its own when it comes to ventilation at speed. $349.95 (solid colors), $389.95 (graphics), $439.95 (CLS/Monster team replica)?your local dealer can get them from MTA Distributing at www.mtadistributing.com.

                                       
THE COOP TAKES THE KIDS RIDING (AS IF IT WERE 1995)

                                       
USED IT, ABUSED IT, TESTED IT: 7602 RACING ADJUSTABLE KTM BRAKE TIP


7602 Racing’s 7075 aluminum KTM brake tip is a bolt-on extension for the KTM brake pedal. It is not only more aggressive, but it is adjustable fore and aft across a 1/2-inch range.

VERDICT: You wouldn’t think that a half-inch would make any difference. But, every MXA test rider raved about the 7602 tip. They didn’t rave about the anodized orange color (also available in black), sharp teeth or brake snake hole. Nope, they loved the fact that the longer brake pedal tip was more accessible and more tactile. The longer length allowed them to use more of the ball of their foot for more control. $34.95?(719) 274-0606 or www.7602racing.com.

                                       
BRETT METCALFE TO RACE AUSSIE SUPERCROSS SERIES STARTING NEXT WEEKEND


Brett Metcalfe (center) is the 2013 Canadian National Champion.

Adopted Canadian Brett Metcalfe will contest the final three rounds of the 2013 Australian Supercross series on an ADR Motorsports KX450F. The last time Metcalfe raced in Australia was 2005. “I’m excited to come home for these Supercross rounds,” said Brett. “I knew there was an option to come back, but I really put it off until I was done with the Motocross des Nations. A lot of it’s based on what I’m doing next year, but realistically doing these couple of rounds is really to get back in the public’s eye in Australia. I’m not coming back for any other reason than to get the feel for Australian Supercross, enjoy it and race next year’s Australian Supercross Championship.

                                       
USED IT, ABUSED IT, TESTED IT: WORKS CONNECTION PRO LAUNCH START DEVICE

Instead of a retractable, spring-loaded button, the Works Connection Pro Launch uses super-powerful magnets to lock the forks down. The magnets retract the hook as soon as the forks are compressed. Because of its lever-style mechanism and chamfered engagement point, the Pro Launch glides over the receiver on the way down and catches on the way up. The MXA test riders could to set the Pro Launch device by themselves?something we could never do with spring-loaded holeshot devices.

VERDICT: Forget about all previous holeshot devices. The magnetic Works Connection’s Pro Launch raises the bar far beyond the old-school button-style devices because it is easier to engage, foolproof to release, never snags and comes with everything you need to install it (including the drill bit). $109.95 ? www.worksconnection.com or (800) 349-1475.

                                       
WHAT’S NEXT ON THE 2013 RACE CALENDAR?



2013 MONSTER ENERGY CUP
  October 19…Las Vegas, NV

2013 ALL-JAPAN MOTOCROSS CHAMPIONSHIP
  October 20………..Sugo
2013 AUSTRALIAN SUPERCROSS CHAMPIONSHIP
  October 19………..Phillip Island, Vic
  October 20………..Phillip Island, Vic
  November 16…….Toowoomba, Qld
2013 REM OCTOBERCROSS (FORMERLY THE COMMOTION BY THE OCEAN)
  October 26, 2013…Glen Helen, CA
JAMMER CUP
  October 26-27…..Maysville, NC
2013 WORLD VETERAN MOTOCROSS CHAMPIONSHIP
  November 2-3, 2013…Glen Helen, CA
2013 THOR WINTER OLYMPICS (MINI O’S)
  November 25-30…Gainesville, FL

                                       
CURRENT AUSTRALIAN SUPERCROSS CHAMPIONSHIP POINTS STANDINGS


Matt Moss.

450 CLASS
(After 3 of 6 rounds)
1. Matt Moss……………….66
2. Jake Moss………………62
3. Weston Peick………….58
4. Josh Hill……………………56
5. Daniel McCoy…………..49
6. Jay Marmont…………….48
7. Kade Mosig……………..40
8. Sam Martin………………34
9. Kirk Gibbs………………..31
10. Lawson Bopping……..28


Luke Styke.

250 CLASS
(After 3 of 6 rounds)
1. Luke Styke………………….72
2. Gavin Faith………………….65
3. Ryan Marmont…………….58
4. Luke Arbon…………………48
5. Dylan Long………………….48
6. Nick Sutherland……………42
7. Taylor Potter………………..40
8. Kayne Lamont…………….39
9. Brenden Harrison…………31
10. Kale Makeham…………. 31

                                       
USED IT, ABUSED IT, TESTED IT: PRO CIRCUIT T-5 CRF450 SINGLE-SIDED EXHAUST


Stock Honda dual mufflers.


Pro Circuit single-sided muffler.


The single-sided T-5 is designed to replace Honda’s twin-pipes with one exhaust pipe and one muffler. It is $600 cheaper than Pro Circuit’s Ti-5 CRF450 twin pipe. It also costs less to replace/repair after a crash, is twice as easy to repack and makes better sense.

VERDICT: The Pro Circuit single-sided T-5 exhaust system produced an impressive 53.02 horsepower at peak (compared to 51.63 for the stock pipe). Above 7000 rpm the single-sided Pro Circuit pipe made an average of one horse more across the range. $779.95?www.procircuit.com or (951) 738-8050.

                                        
2014 AMA SUPERCROSS SERIES

January 4…………..Anaheim, CA
January 11…………Phoenix, AZ
January 18……….. Anaheim, CA
January 25…………Oakland, CA
February 1…………Anaheim, CA
February 8…………San Diego, CA
February 15……….Arlington, TX
February 22……….Atlanta, GA
March 1……………..Indianapolis, IN
March 8……………..Daytona Beach, FL
March 15……………Detroit, MI
March 22……………Toronto, CAN
March 29……………St. Louis, MO
April 5……………….Houston, TX
April 12……………..Seattle, WA
April 26……………..East Rutherford, NJ
May 3………………..Las Vegas, NV

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