MXA Mid-Week Report: Inside The Pro Circuit Camp: RV, RL and Mitch, Training Product Guide
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MOTOCROSS ACTION MID-WEEK REPORT
By: Zap
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PRESS RELEASE: Pirelli Offers Amateur Race Support at Ponca City
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Pirelli Tire and its amateur racing support program will attend the upcoming NMA Ponca City Grand National Motocross Championship held in Ponca City, Okla., on July 20-26.
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Pirelli’s trackside amateur support team will be on hand the entire week to offer technical support to all riders using Pirelli Scorpion MX tires. Riders interested in learning more about Pirelli’s amateur racing support program can contact a Pirelli on-site representative.
Pirelli Tire and its amateur racing support program will attend the upcoming NMA Ponca City Grand National Motocross Championship held in Ponca City, Okla., on July 20-26.
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Pirelli’s trackside amateur support team will be on hand the entire week to offer technical support to all riders using Pirelli Scorpion MX tires. Riders interested in learning more about Pirelli’s amateur racing support program can contact a Pirelli on-site representative.
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PRESS RELEASE: Trick Tank Airstand
“It’s snowing and 12” snow on the ground outside we are in Rochchester NY for a National Arenacross event. We are inside the Arena lots of teams there; from the mighty Chad Johnson to Team Monster Energy Kawasaki,Kelly Smithÿ & Broc Sellards many more teams. A guy came running over frantically looking for an air tank as he need to up the rear tire pressure 3 or 4 lbs.. The only problem was who the heck was going outside 1/2 mile away to get the tank that they forgot to bring inside? Of course me (Mr. Trick-Tank) is one of a couple people with a air tank and asÿ I’m looking all around at these bike stands every team has one or more and I start thinking..
When I got home I called my patent attorney who I’m sure was smiling as he took my money and lo & behold, the Airstand was born.” Retail price $174.99. For more info, Click Here.
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MXA MINI-VIEW: Randy Lawrence
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MXA: We’re about half way through the season and watching R.V. dominate as he is makes you think he’s out there having fun.
R.L.: “Ryan is in a spot right now, both mentally & physically where he can do whatever he wants to on the bike wherever he needs to and for whatever reason. At Colorado he won the first moto by six seconds, came in and rested between motos, started the second moto fresh and even with the darkness, he won that race with the same lap times.”
R.L.: “Ryan is in a spot right now, both mentally & physically where he can do whatever he wants to on the bike wherever he needs to and for whatever reason. At Colorado he won the first moto by six seconds, came in and rested between motos, started the second moto fresh and even with the darkness, he won that race with the same lap times.”
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MXA: How is his wrist?
R.L.: “The wrist is good. I’d say probably four stars out of five. It’s not perfect, but it’s not a hindrance. Right now Ryan’s main goal is to be consistent ? it’s the only way to win Nationals. You have to go fast at the start and at the end and still have the ability to change it up if you have to. Ryan has all that and if his wrist was a problem he wouldn’t be there.”
R.L.: “The wrist is good. I’d say probably four stars out of five. It’s not perfect, but it’s not a hindrance. Right now Ryan’s main goal is to be consistent ? it’s the only way to win Nationals. You have to go fast at the start and at the end and still have the ability to change it up if you have to. Ryan has all that and if his wrist was a problem he wouldn’t be there.”
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MXA: Earlier this we heard how Josh Hill quit Ryan Hughes because Ryno was also working with Broc Hepler who Josh saw as his competition. What’s the deal with you coaching both Villopoto and Jake Weimer.
R.L.: “With Ryan going to the 450 class next year he and I talked about that and I asked if he wanted me to stay with him exclusively or work with another rider. I’ve always been exclusive to Ryan in the 250 class. I had three or four different riders to consider and he and I went through the list together. Of them all he got along the best with Jake. They’re not just friendly at the races; they can hang out away from the races too. Ryan wanted a serious guy and a clean rider. With Jake most likely going to Pro Circuit they’ll be riding at the same practice tracks and their trucks will never be that far apart at the races. So right now I’m working with Jake just to see how it works out. If everyone ends up being happy with the situation than by the start of the 2009 season we’ll already be four months ahead of the game.”
R.L.: “With Ryan going to the 450 class next year he and I talked about that and I asked if he wanted me to stay with him exclusively or work with another rider. I’ve always been exclusive to Ryan in the 250 class. I had three or four different riders to consider and he and I went through the list together. Of them all he got along the best with Jake. They’re not just friendly at the races; they can hang out away from the races too. Ryan wanted a serious guy and a clean rider. With Jake most likely going to Pro Circuit they’ll be riding at the same practice tracks and their trucks will never be that far apart at the races. So right now I’m working with Jake just to see how it works out. If everyone ends up being happy with the situation than by the start of the 2009 season we’ll already be four months ahead of the game.”
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MXA: But is it hard working with them both when they compete against each other?
R.L.: “It’s not that bad. They already talk about the track and what lines work. I make their lunches and make sure they’ve done the proper warm-ups. There haven’t been any knock-down, drag out battles between them yet so it makes everything good at the moment. With seven races still to go there’s always the chance of some friction rising up, but we’ll just cross that bridge when we get there.”
R.L.: “It’s not that bad. They already talk about the track and what lines work. I make their lunches and make sure they’ve done the proper warm-ups. There haven’t been any knock-down, drag out battles between them yet so it makes everything good at the moment. With seven races still to go there’s always the chance of some friction rising up, but we’ll just cross that bridge when we get there.”
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MXA: What about Ryan and the 450?
R.L.”What we’re looking for in the Supercross series is not to run James’ lap times for all 20 laps, but if he can run with him for 3-4 laps we’ll be happy. So far his lap times are similar between the 250 and 450. One thing for sure is that we’re not listening to the hype. The goal is to be ready for Anaheim and probably be on the podium. The first year is all about taking baby steps, but it doesn’t really have an impact on our program?.this is what we’ve been preparing ourselves for since 2006.”
R.L.”What we’re looking for in the Supercross series is not to run James’ lap times for all 20 laps, but if he can run with him for 3-4 laps we’ll be happy. So far his lap times are similar between the 250 and 450. One thing for sure is that we’re not listening to the hype. The goal is to be ready for Anaheim and probably be on the podium. The first year is all about taking baby steps, but it doesn’t really have an impact on our program?.this is what we’ve been preparing ourselves for since 2006.”
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MXA MINI VIEW: Ryan Villopoto
MXA: I know it’s not easy being out there, but the races seem to be going so well for you – is it easy for you out there?
Ryan:” It’s never easy, but getting more holeshots would definitely help! Not having any mud races the rest of the season would also help. Oh yeah, if the bike stayed together at Southwick, that would be good too!”
Ryan:” It’s never easy, but getting more holeshots would definitely help! Not having any mud races the rest of the season would also help. Oh yeah, if the bike stayed together at Southwick, that would be good too!”
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MXA: How do you rate the competition right now?
Ryan: “It’s not as close as it was last year with Townley, but Dungey is always there and Austin is coming on. Austin can run as fast of laps, sometimes faster, right now he’s just not doing for the whole race. I’m not sure if Dungey is as fast as Austin or I, but he’s solid the whole time.”
Ryan: “It’s not as close as it was last year with Townley, but Dungey is always there and Austin is coming on. Austin can run as fast of laps, sometimes faster, right now he’s just not doing for the whole race. I’m not sure if Dungey is as fast as Austin or I, but he’s solid the whole time.”
QUOTE: “He wants a Monster, but he’s afraid to ask!” Villopoto making fun of a thirsty Jake Weimer.
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PRESS RELEASE: Pro-X Stainless Steel Valves & Springs For CRF250R
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The latest addition to the ProX program is the Stainless Steel Intake Valve & Spring Kit for the CRF250R. This kit is offered as an alternative where the OEM application uses titanium valves.
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Titanium is an exotic material that requires strict installing procedures to ensure it works well. In general, OEM titanium valve quality is rather poor while high-end titanium valves are very expensive. Titanium valves need to be replaced on a regular basis resulting in many expensive rebuilds. This in particular is the case for the Honda CRF models due to the use of a very hard material for the OEM valve seat.
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Stainless Steel Valves offer increased durability, with a heavier valve spring due to the extra weight of the steel. ProX has now developed the Stainless Steel Intake Valve & Spring Kits for the CRF250R, containing 2 stainless steel intake valves and 2 specially designed valve springs. The ProX kit replaces the OEM valves & valve springs and can be installed using the OEM retainers, bases and valve seals. For more info Click Here.
MXA CROSS-TRAINING PRODUCT GUIDE
The 2008 Tour de France is turning into an epic five way battle and so far none of the pundits can wager on who is going to win. With a week and half to go before the 170 or so riders left pedal into Paris, there are still many miles to go and steep mountains to climb. Here’s a small dabble of some cycling products that come fromÿcompaniesÿthat manyÿthrottle twisters will surely find familiar. Remember, cycling is probably the # 1 method of training for many of the top American motocross riders.
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Gaerne G. Air Kangarooÿ Ltd. Ed.
No, as a means of paying tribute to their top rider, the AussieCadel Evans (and current Tour de France leader), Gaerne did not source kangaroo skin to make the limited edition signature shoe. Like all Gaerne shoes, the Air Kangaroos are hand made in Italy. Key features include: Gaerne’s EPS carbon sole and patented “Safety Lock”, AICS (Adjustable Instep Closure System), and Power Control System for customizable fit and secure foot position.ÿA micro-adjustable aluminum closure system, perforated upper, and techno insole completes the ensemble. $365. For more info, Click Here.
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Scott Addict Ltd.
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If you’re like all the rest of us road geeks, you know the ultimate bike is as much about providing good performance as it is garnering lots of attention. The deceptively plain wrap Scott Addict Limitedÿis one such bike.ÿFrom the Mavic Carbone Ultimate wheels to the carbon railed Fizik saddlem Sram Red drivetrainÿand Time Carbon RXS pedals, this is a bike that celebrates all the performance benefits of carbon fiber. $10,999.ÿ
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Scott Plasma Ltd.
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Here’s the multisport version of the Scott Addict Ltd road bike that is no less dedicated to getting attention or going fast. From the full Sram Red carbon group to the deep dish carbon Zipp wheels and carbon Fizik Tri saddle, the Scott Plasma Limited is sure to get people to turn their heads when you ride by. $8995. For more info, Click Here.
Easton Carbon Crank
The Easton crank is definitely one of the best looking carbon cranks on the market and it is available with a bottom bracket that uses either standard or ceramic bearings. The EC90 crank uses Easton’s own Hybrid Dual Core hollow design to hit the scale at 558 grams. Easton also says their chainring design is already compatible with the Campagnolo 11 speed drivetrain. Available in 170, 172.5, and 175mm lenths. The cranks also enjoy a five year warranty. $780 (standard bearings), $899 (ceramic bearings). For more info, Click Here.
The Easton crank is definitely one of the best looking carbon cranks on the market and it is available with a bottom bracket that uses either standard or ceramic bearings. The EC90 crank uses Easton’s own Hybrid Dual Core hollow design to hit the scale at 558 grams. Easton also says their chainring design is already compatible with the Campagnolo 11 speed drivetrain. Available in 170, 172.5, and 175mm lenths. The cranks also enjoy a five year warranty. $780 (standard bearings), $899 (ceramic bearings). For more info, Click Here.
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Bell Volt
The venerable Bell helmet made a big splash at this years Tour de France when it introduced their new Volt helmet atop riders like Thor Hushovd and Fabian Cancelarra. Eleven frontal vents corral massive amounts of air with the help of the Volt’s custom-sculpted Composite Fiber Intakes which direct flow to the helmet’s internal StreamJet Ventilation channels. Rearward exhaust ports and the moisture-wicking X-Static padding work in tandem to help keep the rider cool and dry. The Volt also features (gasp!) a removable visor and is available in three sizes and seven colors including limited edition versions of the Team CSC and Credit Agricole colors. $175. For more info, Click Here.
The venerable Bell helmet made a big splash at this years Tour de France when it introduced their new Volt helmet atop riders like Thor Hushovd and Fabian Cancelarra. Eleven frontal vents corral massive amounts of air with the help of the Volt’s custom-sculpted Composite Fiber Intakes which direct flow to the helmet’s internal StreamJet Ventilation channels. Rearward exhaust ports and the moisture-wicking X-Static padding work in tandem to help keep the rider cool and dry. The Volt also features (gasp!) a removable visor and is available in three sizes and seven colors including limited edition versions of the Team CSC and Credit Agricole colors. $175. For more info, Click Here.
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Keeping Up With Bob Roll: He’s a Tour de France veteran and one of the clearest minds when it come to analyzing all things road cycling. To catch up on his Road Bike Action blog, Click Here.
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Win Free Cycling Gear: All you have to do is play along and start by Clicking Here.
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PRESS RELEASE: Magura Bleed Kitÿ
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Magura USA introduces the Moto/ATV Pro Bleed Kit for use with Magura’s JACK Hydraulic Clutch system. Pro quality bleeds can also be performed with ease on any KTM motorcycle and ATV equipped with Magura’s Hydraulic Clutch.
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The Pro Bleed Kit is a sealed system which allows for a mess-free and non-contaminated mineral oil bleed of the hydraulic clutch system. The procedure is made simple by it’s efficient vacuum system. Pro KTM mechanics like Antti Kallonen for David Knight and Evan Yarnall for Mike Lafferty take advantage of the quick, clean bleed the kit offers them. Magura’s own tech support guru, Jude Monica says, “The Pro Bleed’s vacuum system guarantees no air is trapped and left within the system, assuring trouble free clutch operation.”
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The Pro Bleed Kit is a sealed system which allows for a mess-free and non-contaminated mineral oil bleed of the hydraulic clutch system. The procedure is made simple by it’s efficient vacuum system. Pro KTM mechanics like Antti Kallonen for David Knight and Evan Yarnall for Mike Lafferty take advantage of the quick, clean bleed the kit offers them. Magura’s own tech support guru, Jude Monica says, “The Pro Bleed’s vacuum system guarantees no air is trapped and left within the system, assuring trouble free clutch operation.”
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The Pro Bleed Kit comes with a vacuum clamp, syringe, hose, 5 ounces of Magura blood and retails for $109.ÿFor more info, Click Here.
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MXA MINI-VIEW: Mitch Payton
MXA: We’re at the halfway point in the outdoor season ? what’s your assessment of your team?
Mitch: Well, we got one really good guy going now and the rest of them are all having their problems. Metcalf is still coming back from his big crash a few weeks ago. Last week he only got to ride once before the race and hopefully this week he’ll get to ride twice. Austin is out with mono and that’s a tough one to get over because as soon as you start to feel good you start to push it and then you get sick again. Hopefully he’ll be back for the last two Nationals. Branden is still suffering from his concussion, but I think he’ll be back in a few races to come.
Mitch: Well, we got one really good guy going now and the rest of them are all having their problems. Metcalf is still coming back from his big crash a few weeks ago. Last week he only got to ride once before the race and hopefully this week he’ll get to ride twice. Austin is out with mono and that’s a tough one to get over because as soon as you start to feel good you start to push it and then you get sick again. Hopefully he’ll be back for the last two Nationals. Branden is still suffering from his concussion, but I think he’ll be back in a few races to come.
MXA:ÿ We know you’re already getting settled for next year, what can you tell us about 2009?
Mitch:ÿWe say goodbye to Ryan who moves to the factory Kawasaki team. I was just talking to Pourcel and he was supposed to be here by now, but a few health issues came up so he’s planning to be here next month. He’s riding again so that’s really good. I think we’ll stay with Brett, he works hard, I think he just needs to have some luck go his way. Stroupe is already signed-on and now so is Jake Weimer.
Mitch:ÿWe say goodbye to Ryan who moves to the factory Kawasaki team. I was just talking to Pourcel and he was supposed to be here by now, but a few health issues came up so he’s planning to be here next month. He’s riding again so that’s really good. I think we’ll stay with Brett, he works hard, I think he just needs to have some luck go his way. Stroupe is already signed-on and now so is Jake Weimer.
Hepler was talking to us and they knew we couldn’t pay what they were getting from Yamaha, but they said it wasn’t about the money so that was good. But the next thing you know they were asking about the money!ÿ He reminds me of Robbie Reynard who just made a lot of bad career decisions.
What about all these 250 riders who want to race the 450 class because they think they’ll suddenly be getting some results. Guys like Hahn and Chisholm just don’t get it. Let’s look at the numbers: you’ve got Stewart, enough said, Ferry may be old, but look at his experience and success; Milsaps, he’s won a title; Short has won indoor and outdoors; Tedesco has won titles indoors & outdoors, Townley is a former world champion, Langston has won world and national titles?it just so happens that right now about six to eight of the top guys are injured?.once they’re healthy a lot of these 250 guys still won’t be able to crack the top ten.
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MXA: It is a lot more expensive to campaign a 250 though.
Mitch: That’s true, but these guys are already getting everything paid for. With a 450 you need a pipe, probably get away with just a piston and get the suspension done. With a 250 you have to get the suspension done and get a whole motor and you have to maintain it. It’s not a whole lot different than running a 125. I think too many people are confusing the cost of racing with the ease of the class and that’s not accurate. Not to mention, riding a 450 for 20 laps indoors isn’t easy. Look at Chris Gosselaar, he was pretty good 250 rider, but when he moved to the 450 class I don’t think he qualified for a single main event because he got thrown on his head so much.
MXA: Saturday Nationals ? you finally got your way.
Mitch. Yeah, we’ll see. It’s funny, I first started talking about that back in 1998 or ’99 and some of the same people who are pushing it now laughed at me then. I remember Jody wrote about it back then too.ÿ It just seems that we’re going up against too much competition Sundays with NASCAR, church and the ball sports. If we expect to get more private teams going that means new sponsors and I gotta tell you, people like to be back in the office on Monday morning.
Mitch: That’s true, but these guys are already getting everything paid for. With a 450 you need a pipe, probably get away with just a piston and get the suspension done. With a 250 you have to get the suspension done and get a whole motor and you have to maintain it. It’s not a whole lot different than running a 125. I think too many people are confusing the cost of racing with the ease of the class and that’s not accurate. Not to mention, riding a 450 for 20 laps indoors isn’t easy. Look at Chris Gosselaar, he was pretty good 250 rider, but when he moved to the 450 class I don’t think he qualified for a single main event because he got thrown on his head so much.
MXA: Saturday Nationals ? you finally got your way.
Mitch. Yeah, we’ll see. It’s funny, I first started talking about that back in 1998 or ’99 and some of the same people who are pushing it now laughed at me then. I remember Jody wrote about it back then too.ÿ It just seems that we’re going up against too much competition Sundays with NASCAR, church and the ball sports. If we expect to get more private teams going that means new sponsors and I gotta tell you, people like to be back in the office on Monday morning.
MXA: What else do you hear out there?
Mitch: Hey did you hear that Stewart, Ferry and Ryan are Team USA for Des Nations? I guess it’s true what the ads say, “Kawasaki Lets the Good Times Roll!”
Helping Jeff Out
Jeff Alessiÿ is racing with out any funding ( he just sold his practice bike to pay for his Budd’s Creek expenses) if you want to contribute to his race effort, please Click Here.
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