Issuu

OCTOBER 2012

FOR DUNLOP VIDEOS PLEASE VISIT YOUTUBE.COM/DUNLOPTIRESCHANNEL

JOSHHAYES

CONTENTS

2012 WORLD JUNIOR MOTOCROSS CHAMPIONSHIPS

DUNLOP TAKES THIRD SUCCESSIVE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP

DUNLOP ANNOUNCES NEW BI-DIRECTIONAL MULTI-COMPOUND RACE TIRES

TAYLOR ROBERT DOMINATES THE 2012 WORCS PRO CHAMPIONSHIP

RICKY CARMICHAEL CLINCHES 10TH LORETTA LYNN AMATEUR NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP

TEAM D AT LORETTA LYNN’S

JESSE ROOKE CAN’T LEAVE ANYTHING ALONE

EXCITING RACING RULES 2012 MX SEASON

RD DELIVERS

RSD HURLEY SPORTSTER

MOTO2 AND MOTO3 RACING UPDATE

CAMERON BEAUBIER

AMA ROAD RACING UPDATE

UPCOMING EVENTS

ON THE COVER: In his first year on the Red Bull KTM Team, running a brand-new bike, Ryan Dungey not only wins the first AMA Motocross championship for the brand, but he also sets multiple records along the way—most impressive results indeed. Photo by Simon Cudby. Dunlop Download magazine is published for Dunlop Motorcycle Tires by Vreeke & Associates. www.vreeke.com

2012 WORLD JUNIOR MOTOCROSS CHAMPIONSHIPS The Federation International de Motocylisme recently staged the Junior Motocross World Championship in Sivlievo, Bulgaria. The USA sent a strong contingent of young riders to this year’s annual competition, which includes riders from all around the world racing in the 65cc, 85cc and 125cc classes. Team Dunlop member Austin Forkner ended up earning high points for the American team, pacing the squad to third place overall. Austin and his Team Green Monster Energy Kawasaki got off to a great start by winning the first moto in the 85cc class. Unfortunately, the second moto did not start as well for Austin and he had to work his way up to the front for an eventual thirdplace finish. That tied him for top points with Germany’s Brian

DUNLOP TAKES THIRD SUCCESSIVE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP

Hsu, who finished 3-1. But by merit of his better second-moto

Dunlop and the Suzuki Endurance Racing Team (SERT) have been crowned the 2012 FIM

placing, Hsu was crowned 2012 FIM 85cc World Champion.

Endurance World Champions after a close second place in the Le Mans 24 Hours Moto season finale on September 9th.

Still, Austin’s finishes were instrumental in leading the USA to third overall in the Nations standings, with the Netherlands first

The result is the latest endorsement of Dunlop’s very public research and development program—

and Italy second.

conducted under public scrutiny on the race tracks of the world, at the very highest level, against the most demanding competition. Dunlop and SERT add the 2012 title to those accrued in 2011 and 2010, as well as countless other silverware accumulated in the relentless pursuit of better results. Seven of the last eight FIM World Endurance Championships have been won with Dunlop tires.

DUNLOP ANNOUNCES NEW BI-DIRECTIONAL MULTI-COMPOUND

RACE TIRES Dunlop proudly introduces a whole new concept in road race tires: The KR451™. This innovative tire is an asymmetric, bi-directional multi-compound rear slick. This new rear tire differs from others in its use of a custom combination of tire compounds, so the tire can deliver maximum performance regardless of the track’s directional flow. Multiple variations in compound combinations of the KR451 will be made available.

DEVELOPED AND PRODUCED IN DUNLOP’S BUFFALO, NY FACILITY, THE KR451 RACING TIRES ARE THE CULMINATION OF A LONG DEVELOPMENT PROCESS HEADED UP BY DUNLOP PERSONNEL.

During the development phase, top AMA riders sponsored by

compound combinations given the demands of the particular

Dunlop as the exclusive tire of AMA Pro Road Racing, tried the

track they are racing on that weekend. The ability to reverse

new tire and provided feedback. Here is what Roger Lee

rotational direction of the tire gives racers more latitude than

Hayden had to say regarding the KR451. “The first time I used

ever as they make their race-day preparations. We are very

the KR451 was at the NOLA test. I liked how quickly it came in

proud of this new degree of flexibility as well as the

and how much edge grip it had driving into the corners. I was

heightened racing performance the KR451 delivers.”

also impressed with how well the tire ran after many laps in the hot temperatures at NOLA.”

The KR451 is available through Race Tire Service at 800-772-

The reversible nature of the KR451 and versatility are made

In general, a tire with a very grippy compound will produce

possible by a new Jointless Tread application of the tire

faster lap times at the track, but that tire may not be able to

compounds, which are wound onto the tire carcass in

maintain those lap times for the duration of a race. A vivid

Developed and produced in Dunlop’s Buffalo, NY facility, the

questions is 615-641-3323; fax 615-641-8959. Also, the

continuous strips rather than being laid down in a more

example is a qualifying tire: It’s ultra-grippy, but only lasts a

KR451 racing tires are the culmination of a long development

KR451 can be ordered via email at info@dunlopracing.com,

conventional, directional manner. As a result, the tire sidewall

few laps. Tires with compounds that produce consistent

process headed up by Dunlop personnel. “This new tire is a

and online orders or requests for information can be obtained

features double rotation arrows, and the different compounds

lap times over race distance don’t normally generate as

very exciting innovation for racers in America,” says Sabastian

at www.dunlopracing.com. Race Tire Service is available for

are also clearly identified on the sidewall as well. By simply

much maximum grip. By offering different compounds on

Mincone, Dunlop Senior Road Race Manager. “Obviously,

phone orders from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Central time (7:00 AM

picking the KR451 with the most desirable compound

each side, the KR451 can deliver more consistent lap times

most tracks around the country are biased in the number of

– 3:00 PM Pacific time). Orders placed before 2:00 PM

combinations and then mounting it in the appropriate

throughout the race and deliver high grip, allowing the rider

turns they have to the left or to the right, a result of their

Central time will ship that day. All messages left will be

orientation, the racer can then ride with a new level

to reap lower and more consistent lap times for the duration

clockwise or counterclockwise directional flow. With the

returned the next day so orders can be shipped as quickly

of performance.

of the race.

KR451, racers can now choose from a variety of tire

as possible.

TIRE (800-772-8473). The direct line for orders or tech

TAYLOR ROBERT DOMINATES THE 2012 WORCS PRO CHAMPIONSHIP

ROBERT DOMINATED THE LAST THREE ROUNDS OF THE SERIES WINNING ALL SIX RACES ABOARD HIS DUNLOP-SPONSORED KXF450. After 10 rounds across the West Coast, the 2012 World Off

2012 Pro WORCS Championship title with one round

Road Championship Series (WORCS) came to a close at

remaining. JCR/Hondaâ€™s Timmy Weigand, who had only raced

Honolulu Hills Raceway in Taft, CA, with Monster Energy

one other round previously, was able to put together a

Kawasakiâ€™s Taylor Robert grabbing his seventh win of the

noteworthy weekend in taking second overall with his 2-3

season. Robert dominated the last three rounds of the series,

scores. Garrison was unable to contest his teammate as he

winning all six races aboard his Dunlop-sponsored KXF450.

had done at the beginning of the season and would settle for fifth overall.

At round eight in Pala, CA, Robert rode flawlessly in race one, taking the win unchallenged. In race two he had his work cut

At the season finale, Robert launched off the line in race one

out, battling for first place a majority of the 90 minutes but he

and quickly took the lead. Weigand was able to keep him in

eventually pulled away, nailing down another win. Teammate

sight for much of the race but was never able to get close

Bobby Garrison grabbed third overall despite still suffering

enough to make a pass. In the second race, Robert got another

from a shoulder injury.

good start but battled the entire time for the lead and at one point was passed and ran in second. He regained the lead and

Cahuilla Creek MX in Anza, CA hosted round nine, where

took the checkered flag for another 1-1 overall victory. Weigand

Robert maintained his momentum, dominating the weekend

finished second with a 2-3 performance and Garrison finished

with a 1-1 performance. This marked his sixth win of the

seventh but placed second overall in the series.

season, ultimately giving him enough points to wrap up the Other Dunlop-sponsored riders finishing out the season in the top 10 include Justin Soule in sixth, Mike Brown in eighth and Kyle Summers in ninth. WORCS POINTS STANDINGS (after 10 out of 10 rounds) 1. Taylor Robert 456 (Dunlop) 2. Bobby Garrison 351 (Dunlop) 3. Robby Bell 311 (Dunlop) 4. Ryan Abbatoye 308 5. Gary Sutherlin 260 (Dunlop) 6. Justin Soule 211 (Dunlop) 7. Joshua Strang 207 8. Mike Brown 196 (Dunlop) 9. Kyle Summers 157 (Dunlop) 10. Timmy Weigand 117 (Dunlop)

BOBBYGARRISON 12

RICKY CARMICHAEL CLINCHES 10TH LORETTA LYNN AMATEUR NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP After a 16-year absence from the most prestigious amateur

qualifier. Unfortunately, he did not grab a transfer spot in the

motocross race in the world, Ricky Carmichael returned to

Open Pro Sport class, finishing 10th overall with 15-4 scores.

Hurricane Mills, Tennessee to take on the 31st annual Red Bull

Carmichael then took on the regional qualifier at Millcreek

AMA Loretta Lynn Amateur National Motocross Champion.

Motorcross Park in Pell City, AL. He had another impressive

Carmichael, also known as the greatest of all time (G.O.A.T)

showing, launching to great starts both motos and taking the

has been retired from competitive racing for five years but

overall win plus a spot at Loretta Lynn’s.

wanted to revisit his MX roots and experience a no-pressure form of racing.

From July 29 to August 4th Carmichael and his family returned to what is deemed as the “World’s Greatest Motocross

Despite being one of the most decorated racers of all time

Vacation” for another chance to be crowned champion. During

with 67 amateur titles and a record 150 Supercross and

that week Carmichael took on some heavy hitters but

Motocross wins, Carmichael, like nearly 20,000 other racers,

triumphed, taking the win in his first two races. Finally, in moto

had to qualify for his spot at the National. For the Southeast

three of the +25 Junior class Carmichael grabbed the holeshot

region the area qualifier was hosted at Aonia Pass Motocross

but was passed by another rider on the opening lap. The

Park in Washington, GA, where Carmichael lined up on the

“G.O.A.T” ran in second for a couple laps until regaining the

gate for both the Junior +25 class and Open Pro Sport class

lead and quickly pulling away from the rest of the pack. He

aboard his Dunlop-equipped RMZ450. In the +25 class he put

rode flawless the remainder of the race and won his 10th

together two commanding performances, riding unchallenged

Loretta Lynn Amateur National Championship, sweeping the

for 1-1 finishes, guaranteeing him a transfer to the regional

class with 1-1-1 scores.

TEAM D AT LORETTA LYNN’S

JORDANBAILEY 17

THIS YEAR TEAM DUNLOP RIDERS HAD AN IMPRESSIVE SHOWING, CLINCHING A TOTAL OF EIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP TITLES OVER THE FIVE DAYS OF RACING. In the first week of August, amateur racers from all over the country flocked to country singer Loretta Lynn’s Ranch in Hurricane Mills, Tennessee for the 31st annual Red Bull AMA Amateur National Motocoss Championship. Marked as the most prestigious amateur-racing program in the world, over 20,000 racers attempt to qualify each year in 36 classes for one of the 1,446 available positions. Each rider must go through the qualifying program, which consists of 50 area qualifiers that take place from February through May and 12 regional qualifiers in June. This year Team Dunlop riders had an impressive showing, clinching a total of eight championship titles over the five days of racing. Monster Energy Kawasaki’s Adam Cianciarulo, who is also an original Team Dunlop member, put together a flawless performance, riding undefeated in both Super Mini 1 and Super Mini 2 classes to grab two more Super Mini Championships. Cianciarulo ends his mini career with a whopping 11 total Loretta Lynn titles, and he also earned the 2012 AMA Youth award. Jordan Baily likewise had a very successful week, wrapping up two championships in 85 (911) Modified with 1-1-2 finishes and 85 (9-11) Stock with 2-1-1 finishes.

RYDERDiFRANCESCO

ADAMCIANCIARULO 18

Other Elite Team Dunlop members to leave the prestigious amateur national as crowned champions include Ryder DiFrancesco sweeping the 51 (4-6) AMA 1 Stock class with 1-1-1 finishes, Pierce Brown in the 65 (7-9) Stock class with 11-1 finishes, Carson Mumford grabbing 1-1-2 finishes in the 65 (7-11) Modified class and Brandy Richards in the Girls (12-15) class with 2-2-1 finishes. 51cc (4-6) AMA Stock

Mini Sr. (12-14) Stock

Ryder DiFrancesco Champion

Austin Forkner 4th Chase Sexton 8th

51cc (7-8) AMA 2 Stock Jett Reynolds 8th

Mini Sr. (12-14) Mod

Gage Linville 12th

Tanner Stack 2nd Sean Cantrell 3rd

65cc (7-9) Stock

Chase Sexton 5th

Pierce Brown Champion

Austin Forkner 11th

Stilez Robertson 2nd Gage Linville 7th

Super Mini 1 (12-15) Adam Cianciarulo Champion

65cc (10-11) Stock

Andrew Pierce 11th

Carson Mumford 3rd Super Mini 2 (13-16) 65cc (10-11) Mod

Adam Cianciarulo Champion

Carson Mumford Champion

Mark Worth 2nd Andrew Pierce 27th

85cc (9-11) Stock

BRANDYRICHARDS

ANDREWPIERCE 20

Jordan Bailey Champion

Girls (12-15)

Garrett Marchbanks 2nd

Brandy Richards Champion

85cc (9-11) Mod

Womenâ€™s (14+)

Jordan Bailey Champion

Brandy Richards 4th

Garrett Marchbanks 3rd

CARSONMUMFORD

PIERCEBROWN 21

GARRETTMARCHBANKS

SEANCANTRELL

GAGELINVILLE

AUSTINFORKNER

TANNERSTACK

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO ON TEAM DUNLOP

MARKWORTH 22

STILEZROBERTSON 23

JESSE ROOKE

CANâ€™T LEAVE ANYTHING ALONE

Some guys love a clean, stock bike. Some even painstakingly return piles of junk into picture-perfect restorations. Jesse Rooke has a new shop in Arizona that could handle any restoration, and routinely builds a bike from scratch, but Rooke has no love of stock. He creates machines that are innovative, clean, stark and rolling works of art.

While most of his work has been in the custom and chopper

entire bike is built with titanium and aluminum fasteners. The

genre, his latest creation started with knobbies. He began with

guards and levers are from Works Connection.”

an exceptionally unusual all-wheel-drive Christini 450. The Christini is based on a Honda CRF450X, and while it is hardly

Naturally, being a Rooke custom, the bike had to look the part.

smooth in the way street bikes are, adding Christini’s drive

“The frame is bead-blasted, but all of the other chassis parts

system to the front adds more barbs. As exotic as the Christini

are powder-coated. Even the aluminum fasteners get in on the

is stock, JR wasn’t interested in stock.

program, since many are anodized. The plastic and graphics are special. We haven’t decided yet, but we might sell replicas

“Steve Christini wanted to see what we could do with his

to raise money for charity.”

Christini AWD 450. I’ve always been fascinated by flat track racing, so we went in a dirt track direction. Carey Hart had

And, since Jesse is a Dunlop guy, there are Dunlop tires. “We

parts from racing Supermoto, so we swapped the X parts to a

haven’t ridden the bike on dirt yet, but I can’t wait. I’ve got an

full Pro Circuit CRF450R Supermoto race engine, swingarm,

invitation to Kenny Roberts’ ranch to get some dirt track

airbox and subframe. We shortened the suspension, and

practice and have a chance to ride the bike. I’ll be riding with

Steve Christini shortened the drive system to match. The

really good guys, so I am hoping the AWD is as good as

rolling stock is 19-inch wheels from Dubya with the ultra-

everyone says it is. I’ll need every advantage in that crowd.”

“MANY OF OUR GREATEST RACERS HAVE COME FROM DIRT TRACK, AND I WANT TO SEE IT THRIVE.”

strong D.I.D Dirt Star rims in black with black spokes. The Look for Rooke customs at various events this year. “I prefer to display my bikes at events rather than just custom shows. I CLICK HERE TO KEEP UP WITH JESSE ROOKE AND HIS MACHINES

want to have things to do and see, and I love dirt track. I’m hoping to schedule in shows that coincide with dirt track races. Many of our greatest racers have come from dirt track, and I want to see it thrive.”

EXCITING RACING RULES

2012 MX SEASON 30

ONE THING’S FOR SURE: THE LUCAS OIL PRO MOTOCROSS CHAMPIONSHIP, SANCTIONED BY AMA PRO RACING, PROVIDED LOTS OF EXCITEMENT AND A NUMBER OF FIRST-TIME ACHIEVEMENTS AS THE 2012 SEASON FINALLY CAME TO A CLOSE. Dunlop-sponsored riders Ryan Dungey, Blake Baggett and Ashley Fiolek won all three national Motocross titles. Elsewhere in this issue of Dunlop Download, we’ve provided an in-depth interview with Red Bull KTM rider Dungey, who earned the 450 Class Championship—the first-ever pro Motocross or Supercross championship for KTM in the USA—with a masterful effort, posting 10 overall victories in the 12-round season; he won every overall from the third round forward. Motoconcepts’ Mike Alessi worked hard all season long to challenge Dungey, and his efforts earned him the runner-up spot on the year. Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki’s Jake Weimer edged out Chaparral Honda’s Andrew Short by a single point for third overall in the championship points chase. In the 250 class, Blake Baggett earned the title for his Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki team, in part by winning a class-leading five races. The championship came down to three Team Dunlop alumni riders—Baggett, GEICO Honda teammates Justin Barcia and Eli Tomac. It all came down to the final at Lake Elsinore, where Baggett once again asserted his dominance, never giving up the points lead, and emerging victorious at the end of the year. Team Honda Muscle Milk’s Ashley Fiolek closed out the 8-round Women’s Motocross Championship on top following a wide-open season that saw three riders still holding a chance at winning the title entering the final round. Fiolek’s hard-earned championship was her fourth in five seasons as a pro—this, despite missing a round of competition with an injury early in the season. Troy Lee Designs/Lucas Oil Honda’s Tarah Gieger earned a career-best runner-up finish in the championship, while Rockstar Suzuki’s Jessica Patterson fought on gallantly despite an injury to round out third in the points chase.

ELITOMAC 32

RYANDUNGEY 34

BLAKEBAGGETT 36

ASHLEYFIOLEK 38

MIKEALESSI 40

JAKEWEIMER

ANDREWSHORT 42

CLICK HERE TO SEE MORE IMAGES FROM THE MX SEASON

JUSTINBARCIA 43

DELIVERS!

2012 SEES RYAN DUNGEY DELIVER MANY FIRSTS TO KTM— INCLUDING THEIR FIRST AMA MOTOCROSS CHAMPIONSHIP

The 2012 AMA Motocross season will go down in the history books—especially the KTM history books—as one of the most dominant one-man shows to ever brace the grueling National outdoor circuit. Red Bull KTM rider Ryan Dungey staged a truly amazing display of racing prowess as he absolutely dominated the competition all season long with a staggering collection of moto wins and overall victories. These wins elevated Dunlop-sponsored Dungey to third on the all-time win list, as he overtook Rick Johnson and now closely trails Bob Hannah—both true legends of the sport. We managed to carve a little time out of RD’s busy schedule to gain a few insights on his championship season.

GOOD TIRES ARE ESSENTIAL. WE CAN DO ALL THE WORK IN THE WORLD DEVELOPING AND SETTING UP THE BIKE BUT IF THE TIRES, THE ONE PART THAT ACTUALLY CONNECTS THE BIKE TO THE TERRAIN, AREN’T ANY GOOD THEN WHAT’S THE POINT? First of all, congratulations on your championship! You had

of valuable information about the bike at that race and we

an incredible run of moto wins and overall wins in 2012;

were pumped to finish in second place in the process! It

what were some of the elements that helped you find so

gave us a solid platform to build from heading into the

much success?

Supercross Championship.

RD: The Motocross season went really well. I stayed healthy the entire season, which is what every rider aims for. At the

And you found success right away once the Supercross

start of the season James Stewart and I had some great

season began, right?

battles and I was bummed to see him get hurt because I was

RD: Our first Supercross season together was a really good

having a great time racing him. We were really pushing each

one. We put the Red Bull KTM on the podium at the series

other. But as the season went on I feel the team and I got even

opener in Anaheim and that was awesome. It was a big boost

stronger. We were consistently at the top of our game and on

for the team to know we were on the right track and a reward

the podium every week. Consistency is definitely very

for everyone’s hard work, bringing the revamped KTM program

important as is staying healthy. I think we got the bike dialed in

into fruition. And from there we continued to get stronger,

a little better with every race and by Unadilla we were able to

taking our first win of the season—and KTM USA’s first-ever

wrap up the championship. I know KTM is stoked, as am I.

big bike win—the following week in Phoenix. Our second win came at the Atlanta SX. However, just like anytime you’re

How gratifying was it to be able to keep on top of your

working with something brand new, there were some weeks

game, racking up win after win, building up a points lead

where we were a little ways off from where we wanted to be

to an early championship?

but I think we always figured it out and were back on it the

RD: It felt good but it wasn’t without a lot of hard work along

following week. It was a shame that I got injured midway into

the way. What’s the old saying; “It’s hard work getting to the

the season and missed five rounds but I think we made up for

top but even harder to stay there?” The biggest challenge was

it by winning the final two Supercross races.

staying focused and trying to continuously push myself to keep getting better and faster each week. When it comes to

Did you ever have any reservations about joining a new

racing I always strive to do better and keep learning new

team with an all-new, virtually unproven bike?

things about the sport and myself. Like I said, James and I had

RD: There are a lot of factors that come into play when it

some great battles and as the season went on Mike Alessi

comes to signing with a team. I guess coming to KTM, a

continued to get stronger as well so I always had someone

company that for a long time had dedicated the majority of its

there ready to capitalize on any mistakes.

resources to the European racing scene, was a bit of a leap of faith. But I knew that if Roger DeCoster was there then

The first year on a new bike with a new team is supposed

something good would come out of it. I’ve had a great

to be an “adjustment period”, but you quickly found

relationship with him for many years and I trust his

success early on during Supercross—what helped you to

workmanship. If he says he can make something work, then I

adapt so quickly?

know he will. Roger never does anything half-heartedly. I also

RD: When I signed with KTM late last year I literally had two

went to Europe to meet with KTM and I saw firsthand the level

weeks on the new KTM 450SX-F before we decided to race

of commitment and resources they were putting toward the U.S.

the cup race in Las Vegas. We figured there was no better

racing program in an effort to win here. It’s awesome for

way to find out where we were at in terms of the competition

everyone involved to experience the success we experienced in

than to race with them. We raced Vegas and gathered a lot

our first year together. 47

CLICK HERE TO SEE MORE IMAGES OF RYAN DUNGEY

Tell us about the bike; what are some of the things you like

Bull KTM is good at what they do and I don’t have to worry

team spent a lot of time testing and developing our settings.

Do you have a favorite Dunlop tire, one that gives you the

best about it?

about things because I know they have it handled. KTM both

We also worked on engine power delivery to make the ride

best feel in most track situations?

RD: It just feels good. The weight is just right for me and I like

in Europe and America made me feel welcome from the start

smoother—the way I like it. I think these are the two key main

RD: My favorite is the tire that hooks up best to the conditions

the power delivery from the engine; it handles great.

so the adjustment period didn’t take too long.

areas we made improvements and are still improving on.

we’re riding in! (Laughs) No, I don’t really have one favorite.

Tell us about getting adjusted to your new team; how is

Tell us about some of the development work you and the

The outdoor tracks vary considerably in terrain and

on race day and work with their suggestions for tire choice. No

this team different compared to past situations?

team did with the bike as the season progressed, and how

soil types; tell us about the different Dunlop tires you

one is more knowledgeable than them when it comes to

RD: That’s hard to answer because all but one year in my

those changes have helped your performance.

use at the different tracks, and how they contribute to

knowing what will work best in the various conditions. We

professional career has been under the leadership of Roger! I

RD: When you are working with an all-new bike, every time

your success.

have a good idea of what we should run but we definitely lean

think one of the biggest factors when it comes to a rider’s

you ride you discover new characteristics about it. I think

RD: Good tires are essential. We can do all the work in the

on them for advice when the time comes.

performance and success is your confidence. If you don’t

Roger and the guys in Austria did an awesome job in the short

world developing and setting up the bike but if the tires, the

have confidence in the equipment you’re on or the people that

time they had to develop a bike that was virtually ready to go

one part that actually connects the bike to the terrain, aren’t

What are some of your high points and favorite memories

surround you working on your race bike then it’s hard to go

out of the box. I can honestly say that when I received my first

any good then what’s the point? They literally are the part of

from this 2012 season?

out there and race at 100 percent to 110 percent. What we do

KTM 450SX-F practice bike I felt just as good on it for the first

the bike that grounds it. And it’s the travel and feel we get from

I think getting my first win with KTM and delivering KTM USA’s

can be dangerous so you have to have your head in the right

time as I had felt on any other new bike I’d ridden. I was

the tires to the bike that we eventually base our set-up from.

first-ever Supercross win in Phoenix at only the second race in

place when it comes time to race. At Red Bull KTM I am

actually surprised. We had a really good platform to build

So the quality of the tires we use is crucial to our overall set-

the series is a standout moment for me. And of course,

working with a bunch of new faces; however I’m also working

from. That’s why two weeks after getting my first bike I was

up and development. We choose Dunlop because the product

winning the Motocross Championship! It’s been a great year

with many guys I’ve worked and trusted in the past (Roger, Ian

able to race the cup race in Las Vegas. The key areas we

they produce, I believe, is the best. And the support we

for the team and me. And being back with Roger, Ian and the

Harrison and Rob Hendrickson). Roger is very good at putting

focused on since then have been suspension and engine

receive from them is exceptional. We are always trying and

crew is awesome. I feel at home with the team and with that

an experienced hard working team together. Everyone at Red

development. We use WP Suspension components and the

experimenting with tires working in conjunction with Dunlop.

feeling then I think the good results will only continue.

We work closely with Brian Fleck and the entire Dunlop crew

RSD HURLEY SPORTSTER KEEPING IT SIMPLE.

Simple things are best. And Hurley’s H20 initiative is, at heart,

[Hurley] on various projects, and this was really an excuse for

a simple thing. Hurley makes surfing gear, and the initiative is

us to hang out and combine bikes and surfing.”

to supply clean water to, well, everyone. Pretty simple, seeing as how clean water is a simple requisite for life. Hurley’s a

Sands aim was to create “a bike you could ride to the beach

natural match for the project, because it’s a company that

that was easy to build.” To that end, the changes aren’t

makes surfing gear, which depends on—water.

necessarily sweeping, but are well thought out, and took about a month. The suspension, brakes, wheels and ergos have all

Enter Roland Sands Design. Sands and some of his crew are

been fettled, plus there’s a pipe and fuel module for the 45-

avid surfers, and liked Hurley’s H20 initiative, as well as the

degree V-twin. “It’s really a bolt-on build, not much fabrication

designs of the company’s apparel, specifically the Phantom

involved,” Sands says.

line. Sands says, “The Hurley pattern on the tank was the inspiration for the build. I really liked the geometric pattern.”

“We have changed the bike quite a bit in its lifetime. We build a lot of parts for Sportys, so we’re constantly trying new bars,

So with that RSD decided to build a “surf-worthy café bike” to

seats, foot controls, levers and whatever else we can throw at

show its support for Hurley. And Sands’ choice for a platform?

it,” he adds.

Simple. A Harley-Davidson Sportster, specifically the Nightster, arguably one of Harley’s simplest models.

But the Sportster won’t be the end of the RSD/Hurley collaboration. Sands says, “Our plans are to develop some

As Sands says on his Web site, “The guys at Hurley are stoked

future concepts that can be a part of the H20 initiative,

on bikes and we’re equally stoked on surfing, so a

possibly building some bikes specifically to reach places that

collaboration was born … using Hurley’s Phantom pattern as

need clean water.”

inspiration. …” No easy feat that. But you can be assured the simplest As Sands says, “My friend Punker Pat works with them

approaches will work best.

SIMPLE THINGS ARE BEST. AND HURLEY’S H20 INITIATIVE IS, AT HEART, A SIMPLE THING.

CLICK HERE TO SEE MORE IMAGES OF THE BIKE

MOTO2 MOTO3

AND

RACING UPDATE The racing in the Dunlop-spec-tire Moto2 and

for 2013 and 2014. Márquez will take the spot va-

Moto3 series has been terrific since the start of

cated by team rider Casey Stoner, who an-

the year, but with 12 rounds down as the season

nounced his retirement earlier this year.

progresses, a few select riders are rising to the top.

In Moto3 racing, tight competition continues to be the rule with any one of a number of racers vying

In Moto2, as of the Brno GP round in the Czech

for the win come race day. Case in point: in Brno

Republic, Team CatalunyaCaixa Repsol’s Marc

it was Mapfre Aspar Team Moto3’s Jonas Folger

Márquez has notched his second consecutive win

who locked up the win in only his second race for

and sixth on the season. These efforts have given

the Aspar team after switching squads midway

him a comfortable gap in the championship stand-

through the season.

ings, with his closest challenger Pons 40 HP Tuenti’s Pol Espargaró trailing by 48 points, which

Currently, Sandro Cortese of the Red Bull KTM Ajo

is a margin of almost two race victories. Six races

team leads the Moto3 championship chase with

remain on the calendar, so things look very posi-

200 points, followed by Blusens Avintia’s Maverick

tive for Márquez.

Viñales with 168 points and RW Racing GP’s Luis Salom with 149. But there’s plenty more racing to

Such impressive results, among other factors,

be done, and the only thing for certain in this class

prompted Honda to sign the 19-year-old Spanish

is that there will be plenty more close races before

rider to the factory Repsol Honda MotoGP team

the final checkered flag has fallen.

MARCMÁRQUEZ 56

SANDROCORTESE 58

CAMERON BEAUBIER

EUROPE CAN WAIT. 60

“I LIKED WHAT I SAW. I LIKED HIS ATTITUDE. HE WAS TRAVELING AROUND THE WORLD ON HIS OWN, AND WE WERE ABLE TO HELP HIM AND GUYS LIKE HIM A LITTLE BIT.” – CASEY STONER ON CAMERON BEAUBIER At 19 years of age, Californian Cameron Beaubier has a racing

Known for his youthful appearance, Beaubier can look forward

resume longer and more impressive than many riders 15 years

to being one of those people who gets asked for his ID well

older. A second-generation racer, Cameron has been racing

into his 30s. And his physicality? Like so many of his racing

most of his life, starting out on a Yamaha PW50 minibike, and

peers, Beaubier prefers to spend long hours on his bicycle for

moving from there to race motocross and supermoto. He

training purposes. In Europe, Beaubier saw that his heroes like

found his way to Europe in the Red Bull Rookie’s Cup, then

Nicky Hayden, Casey Stoner, and the rest went racing with no

raced the MotoGP 125 GP class and the Spanish 125 series

fat on their bones and just enough muscle to get the job done,

and now has returned to the USA to race for the Yamaha

and he’s adopted that same physical profile.

Extended Service/Graves/Yamaha team in the AMA Pro GoPro Daytona SportBike class.

Beaubier has enjoyed an explosion of success in 2012. After a somewhat slow start to the season—due to the broken leg he

At an age when most parents would not let their teen stay over

suffered in a Christmas Eve dirtbike mishap, followed by a

at a strange house, Beaubier was traveling all over Europe, at

post-Daytona scooter accident that broke his kneecap into

times by himself. Credit goes to his Dad, Jeff, who was a racer

three pieces—the Californian has won four of the past five

himself and understands the sacrifices and laser-like focus you

Daytona SportBike races, including his breakthrough weekend

need to be successful.

at Barber Motorsports Park where he earned his first career

After several years in Europe, Beaubier returned to the United

wins. The racecraft that Beaubier demonstrated in the class

States and began a progression through the racing ranks. He

has garnered a great deal of accolades. He’s aggressive

won races in the AMA SuperSport series, including his first

without being overly aggressive and he’s got such a strong

race on a 600 at Daytona. He adapted easily to production-

technical riding style that he doesn’t look like the fastest rider

based racing here in the States. From his motocross and

on the track even when he is.

DSB pole position, followed by his first two career DSB race

supermoto roots, one might believe that Cameron Beaubier’s heart lies with the aged two-strokes when it comes to a

Thanks to racing, he’s got friends all over the world. He and

favored mode of racing motorcycle, but it’s exactly the

American JD Beach stayed with Casey Stoner at Casey’s

opposite. He says he likes the power and responsive chassis

home in Australia, and he enjoys a close relationship with

of a 600 over a two-stroke 125cc GP bike. “You can’t do much

reigning World Supersport champion and current Aprilia World

with a 125,” he says.

Superbike rider Chaz Davies. With his recent explosion of success, some wonder if Beaubier will return to Europe next season. There is unfinished business for Beaubier in Europe, but his focus will be the AMA series in 2013. For now, there is the U.S. to conquer. The World championships will have to wait for Cameron Beaubier.

CLICK HERE TO SEE MORE IMAGES OF CAMERON BEAUBIER

AMA ROAD RACING

UPDATE When the MotoGP crowd comes to town, every single national rider afforded an opportunity to

race on the same weekend as the GP stars has his internal meter set to “impress.” A national rider who has a good showing at a MotoGP event cannot underestimate how it may impact his career. MotoGP arrived at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca in late July, and the full accompaniment of AMA Pro Road Racing classes joined the storied Euro-centric world championship series. While each class—SuperBike, Daytona SportBike and SuperSport—were afforded just one race on the weekend, all were held in good weather and with the good vibe brought on with the announcement that GEICO had signed on to become the series sponsor for the AMA Pro Road Racing series.

JOSHHAYES 66

BLAKEYOUNG

AMA PRO NATIONAL GUARD SUPERBIKE

In the SuperBike class, Josh Hayes enjoyed a historic week-

every single one of them. I don’t have anything to worry about.

end at Laguna Seca Raceway. The Monster Energy/Graves/

I’ve got a points situation that I don’t even think about at this

Yamaha rider and two-time reigning SuperBike Champion

point in the season. I’m just focused on winning every race

qualified on pole and handily won the race and, by doing so,

that I can. If I toss one down the road—or two down the

he cemented himself further into the AMA Pro Racing records

road—then I’ll reevaluate how I’m going to approach it. But,

book. Josh won his 11th SuperBike race of the season, includ-

right now, I just want to win everything.

ing his 8th victory in a row, which is a single-season SuperBike record in AMA Pro Racing. As icing on the cake, it was Josh’s

“I’m still riding like I have a little bit of a chip on my shoulder.

28th career SuperBike win, tying him with Ben Spies for third

I still remember last year very clearly. I remember it more

on the all-time wins list.

clearly than I remember winning eight races in a row. It seems like things have happened pretty quickly and it doesn’t feel

“Good things are happening right now,” Hayes said. “I’ll ride

like that to me. I’ll just keep focusing, and trying hard, and

the train as long as I can. If I get into a battle in a hard race,

pushing myself.”

you’re going to see me fighting for it for that individual race; it has nothing to do with streaks or race wins or anything like

Going into New Jersey Motorsports Park, Hayes was leading

that. It’s for that race win. I’m in a position where I can try for

his third consecutive SuperBike Championship by 74 points with six races and three rounds remaining on the season. With dominating back-to-wins in Jersey, Hayes not only increased his point lead, but set a new record for most AMA SuperBike wins in a single season—eleven—surpassing the record previ-

JOSHHERRIN 68

ously held by Mat Mladin.

CAMERONBEABIER

AMA PRO GOPRO DAYTONA SPORTBIKE In the AMA Pro GoPro Daytona SportBike class, Cameron Beaubier just continues to impress. The Californian won a cut-and-thrust, three-way fight for another victory at Laguna Seca, taking his fourth victory in the past five races in the DSB class. If youâ€™re of the opinion that Martin Cardenas is one of the best riders in the AMA Road Racing series and the best rider in the Daytona Sport Bike class, you canâ€™t help but be impressed by Beaubier beating series points leader Cardenas in a impressive, last-lap pass. In Jersey, Beaubier won the first race ahead of Cardenas to close the championship points gap, but in the second race Beaubier was caught up in a horrific crash with Yamaha teammate Tommy Hayden (both riders walked away) after Hayden hit a damp spot on the tarmac and highsided. The crash left the door open to Cardenas to take the win, stretching his championship lead.

MARTINCARDENAS 70

AMA PRO MOTORCYCLE-SUPERSTORE.COM SUPERSPORT

James Rispoli won the AMA Pro MotorcycleSuperstore.com SuperSport race on Saturday at Laguna Seca in a race that few on hand will ever forget. The Celtic Racing/Orient Express Racing Suzuki GSX-R600 pilot led the majority of the race, but he was kept honest in it by RoadRace Factory/Red Bull Yamaha YZF-R6 rider Hayden Gillim. The chance to show the world what youâ€™re capable of at a MotoGP event was not lost on anyone at Laguna and certainly not on the SuperSport rivals. Both almost crashed as the laps wore down, and Rispoli put himself on the top of the podium with an aggressive pass in Lagunaâ€™s final corner for the win. In Jersey, Rispoli did it again, taking another win and stretching his significant championship points lead.

JAMESRISPOLI 72

SHANENARBONNE

AMA PRO VANCE & HINES XR1200 SERIES The Vance and Hines XR1200 class did not race at Laguna Seca, but they were back in action on an equally hallowed ground at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, and they had good news to report. AMA Pro Road Racing, Vance & Hines, and the Harley-Davidson Motor Company announced on Saturday that the spec racing class will be extended for the 2013 and 2014 seasons in the GEICO Motorcycle AMA Pro Road Racing Championship. With an international crowd watching and a $50,000 weekend purse on the line, Kyle Wyman won Saturday’s race one. In Sunday’s race two, Tyler O’Hara withstood an early battle, and then he notched a lopsided win that he celebrated in style with one of the longest cool-down-lap wheelies in recent AMA Pro Road Racing memory. All bets were off in New Jersey as Shane Narbonne took his first win in the XR class. Wyman finished fourth, knocking him back to a tie for the championship points lead with Benjamin Carlson.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE RR IMAGES

TYLERO’HARA 74

UPCOMING EVENTS GNCC Series #11 October 6-7 Powerline Park St. Clairsville, OH National Hare and Hound Series #9 October 14 Johnson Valley, CA

Monster Energy Cup October 20 Las Vegas, NV

MotoGP–Moto2 October 21 Sepang Circuit, Malaysia

MotoGP–Moto2 October 28 Phillip Island, Australia

GNCC Series #12 October 20-21 Crawfordsville, IN

National Hare and Hound Series #10 October 28 Lucerne, CA

GNCC Series #13 November 3-4 Hurricane Mills, TN

MotoGP–Moto2 October 14 Motegi, Japan

MotoGP–Moto2 November 11 Comunitat Valenciana, Valencia