News

Oct 15, 2024

MXA'S WEEKEND NEWS ROUND-UP: TAKE A DEEP BREATH, COME UP FOR AIR & THE NATIONALS ARE HERE - Motocross Action Magazine

The Red Bull KTM team will get the service of fan favorite Aaron Plessinger this Saturday at Pala Raceway Plessinger will make a welcome return to racing after fracturing his elbow following a crash

The Red Bull KTM team will get the service of fan favorite Aaron Plessinger this Saturday at Pala Raceway Plessinger will make a welcome return to racing after fracturing his elbow following a crash in the opening qualifying session at the Foxborough Supercross. The impact resulted in a fracture of the proximal ulna bone in the elbow region of his arm—that unfortunately ended his Supercross season prematurely. Plessinger, the 2018 AMA 250 National Champion, has been quietly preparing himself for the opening round of the AMA 450 National Last year, the 28-year-old finished third overall in final 450 National points.

Aaron Plessinger said, “I love racing outdoors, so can’t wait for the season to start – outdoor fans are my people! I’ve been back on my bike riding motocross for a few weeks now after injuring my elbow during Supercross. It’s actually given me a bit of a head start on the other guys, so I guess that’s the positive on what was a negative of having my Supercross season cut short. I’m looking forward to getting amongst the fans every weekend and having a good time with the Red Bull KTM Factory Racing Team crew every weekend.”

With the opening round of the 2024 AMA National Motocross Championship a couple days away, the GasGas team welcomes Frank Latham as Troy Lee Designs/Red Bull/GasGas team manager, replacing Max Lee, who replaced Tyler Keefe two years ago. Frankie Latham is a vastly experienced factory mechanic, best known for his successful years with Marvin Musquin and as KTM’s team team coordinator.Latham’s promotion to GasGAs team manager was not a secret, Frankie was at the Glen Helen Stopwatch National last Thursday, wearing a GasGas jacket..

Roger DeCoster has three factory teams to overlook and he chose Frankie Latham (left) to hopefully turn the GasGas team into a winner.

Frank Latham said, “I’m excited for the new opportunity and new venture. By moving into this new role I hope I can make an impact, along with the team and the riders. I am very grateful that Troy and the KTM Group are giving me this opportunity. I am eager for the outdoor rounds to start and am excited to see how the season develops.”

The 2024 GasGas team for the AMA Nationals consists Ryder DiFrancesco, 19, and Pierce Brown, 21, in the 250 class and Justin Barcia, 32, in the 450 class .

We are headed into motocross for the continuation of the 2024 season. With all new prizes, play weekly for a chance to win.

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Dive into an unparalleled motocross Fantasy experience with MXA’s cutting-edge app, meticulously crafted to deliver all the action directly to your fingertips. Our sophisticated, seamless, and ationalscompletely “free” platform allows you to engage in intense competitions, even if you join mid-season. With opportunities to win prizes every weekend based on the most points gained from each race, you’re never out of the running. The season is already one race into the AMA National, but you can still challenge your friends, create groups, and immerse yourself in the competition by joining private parties. Enter at any point in the 2024 National series. If you’re using Apple click here and if you’re on Android click here

This is the cover of the June 2024 issue of MXA with the MXA 350 Shootout and the Beta 450RX on the cover.

Did you know that you can subscribe to MXA at absolutely no cost to you—because when you subscribe you receive a Rocky Mountain ATV/MC credit for $25 towards anything in their massive inventory, all at no cost to you. Plus, you will get all the content in the 12 monthly issues of Motocross Action magazine delivered to your home by a uniformed U.S. government employee.

The upcoming June 2024 issue includes full tests of the 2024-1/2 GasGas MC450F Factory Edition, 2024 Beta 450RX motocross model, 2024-1/2 Husqvarna FC250 Rockstar Edition and a shootout between the only three 350cc four-stroke motocross bikes sold in the USA (the GasGas MC350F, KTM 350SXF and Husky FC350). Plus, 16 full-color pages on the 2024 Seattle Supercross. Plus, wWe interview Doug Dubach on his rise from a lowly local racer to a factory Yamaha rider to the all-time winningest Vet hero. If that’s not enough, our experts tackled important subjects in their specialties, with REP’s Mark Johnson the A,B,C’s of your bike’s suspension, Twisted Development’s Jamie Ellis reveals his plan to take Twisted Development closer to riders East of the Mississsippi and Troll Training’s Alex Martin analyzes all the fitness gizmos on the market and what to look for in a heart rate monitor..

We also have a Close-up look at Weston Peick’s 2018 JGR Suzuzki RM-Z450, which revelaes all of JGR’s RM-Z secrets, that amazingly are still valid today And that isn’t all that is in the June 2024 Issue of MXA, but we have to leave some surprises left for your you new issue hits your mailbox. Don’t forget, the $25 credit from Rocky Mountain ATV/MC means that you get a subscription of MXA for free. Are you smart enough to recognize a great deal when you see it? To subscribe call (800) 767-0345 or Click Here

ODI FUSION PRO THROTTLE TUBESThe last throttle tube you may ever need to buy. This Fusion billet throttle tube is coupled with the ODI Hex Snap-Cam System integrated with all ODI Snap-Cam fitments and made with aircraft-grade alloys. $69.95—www.odigrips.com or your local dealer.

LOSI PROMOTO RC MOTORCYCLEAn R/C motorcycle that looks and performs like a real dirt bike. It’s not a dream anymore—it’s the Losi Promoto MX. Innovative mechanical and electronic tech- nologies combine to make this the first R/C dirt bike that really works. $599.99—www.losi.com or your local dealer.

THOR PRIME GEAR SETThor’s Prime race wear has served at the forefront of motocross and Supercross around the globe since 2014 and shows no signs of slowing down. They have also elevated the construction and flexibility of the Prime collection and added fresh new designs. $64.95 (jersey), $160.95 (pants)—www.thormx.com or your local dealer

EVS BALLISTIC PRO CHEST PROTECTORSuperior protection meets ultimate comfort; the Ballistic Pro provides the best of both. It features RMF (Reactive Memory Foam) technology that’s soft and pliable in its natural state, yet stiffens when force is applied to provide a protective impact barrier. The perforated Air Mesh fabric allows unimpeded airflow. The Ballistic Pro is CE 1621-3 certified for the chest and CE 1621-1 certified for back protection. $219.99—www.evs-sports.com or your local dealer.

FLY RACING FORMULA S HELMETMeet the Fly Racing Formula S, the world’s first MX Smart helmet with integrated impact detection, emergency response, and real-time ride analytics. The Formula S is one of the most innovative motocross helmets ever created. This technologically advanced helmet combines intelligent telemetry with the best in helmet performance and safety. $799.95—www.flyracing.com or your local dealer.

VINTCO VALVE SHIM KIT“VintCo has expanded its product range with the latest Valve Shim kits, which are meticulously crafted for the newest four-stroke models. These kits are available for all the prevalent sizes and each kit includes four shims for each size, ensuring a cost-effective solution for engine mainte nance. $79.95—www. vintco.com or (515) 210-9977.SKF WHEEL KIT“Svenska Kullagerfabriken (SKF) was born in 1907 after its found- er invented the first double-row, self-aligning ball bearing. SKF has been producing high-quality bearings ever since. SKF’s new motorcycle Wheel Service kit includes high-quality bearings and seals compatible with your stock wheel spacers. $29.99 to $49.99—www.innteck-usa.com or (866) 252-8772.

After exceeding all sales expectations Rob Andrews’ critically acclaimed motocross book, ‘The Inside Line: Racing the 500cc World Motocross Championship’ is now available in the U.S. through Burbank, California-based book distributor Autobooks-Aerobooks. Previously, customerrs had to order it from England. The Inside Line’ traces the career of former British 500GP Motocross des Nations and factory Kawasaki star Rob Andrews. Engagingly written, and beautifully illustrated throughout in litho printed full color, it takes you on an immersive, first-hand journey into the life and mind of a Grand Prix racer during the glory days of the 500cc World Championship. It is now available direct in the USA with quick and cost-effective shipping, ‘The Inside Line’ costs $69.99 and can be ordered from Autobooks-Aerobooks by Clicking Here.

The Kurt Caselli Foundation in partnership with Doffo Winery is excited to announce the return of the annual Kurt Caselli Foundation MotoDoffo Fundraising Event, scheduled for Saturday, June 8th from 4:00 p.m. to 10:00p.m.. Celebrating its 10th year, this special event promises to be an unforgettable evening dedicated to enhancing the safety of off-road riders and racers, with all proceeds directly benefiting The Kurt Caselli Foundation. The day includes a live DJ, award winning Doffo wines, gourmet food vendors, a silent auction , a raffle and over 150 vintage motorcycles—including Kurt Caselli’s race bikes.

Ticket Information: Secure your presale tickets now at www.kurtcaselli.com/tickets and enjoy $5 off + receive a $10 gift card from Rocky Mountain ATV/MC (one per email address), valid until June 6th. Tickets purchased at the door will cost $30, and does not include the gift card. Admission for children aged 12 and under is free. Enhance their experience with a $10 Kids Activity Card, available at the event, granting full access to all children’s activities. For more info go to www.kurtcaselli foundation.com.

Jorge Prado (1) lost the points lead in the 2024 FIM 450 World Motocross Championship in the mud in Portugal, but he got it back at the second Spanish GPl a week later.

Venue 450 250Mar. 10…Argentina…………………………Jorge Prado (Gas)……………Kay de Wolf (Hus)Mar. 24…Spain…………………………………Jorge Prado (Gas)……………Kay de Wolf (Hus)Apr. 7…Sardinia……………………………….Jorge Prado (Gas)……………Kay de Wolf (Hus)Apr. 14…Italy #1..…………………………….Jorge Prado (Gas)…………..Liam Everts (KTM)May 5…Portugal………………………………Pauls Jonass (Gas)………….Liam Everts (KTM)May 12…Spain…………………………………Jorge Prado (Gas)…………..Lucas Coenen (KTM)May 19…France……………………………… Tim Gajser (Hon)……………Lucas Coenen (KTM)Jun. 2…GermanyJun. 9…LatviaJune 16…Italy #2June 30…Indonesia #1July 7…Indonesia #2July 21…Czech RepublicJuly. 28..BelgiumAug. 11…SwedenAug. 18…HollandAug 25…SwitzerlandSept. 8… TurkeySept. 16…ChinaSept. 29….Italy #3450 Points leader……………………..Jorge Prado250 Points leader…………………….Kay De Wolf

A class for everyone and every bike: vintage Post-Vintage, Evolution & Minis. For more information go to www.greatplainsvintagemx.org



The 2024 AMA 250/450 Nationals start in this Saturday at Pala Raceway on Saturday, May 25..

Peacock, with support from NBC and USA, will televise the 2024 AMA 250/450 Nationals.

Pala Raceway isn’t what you’d call scenic. This is the view from the mechanic’s’ area.

2024 AMA NATIONAL MOTOCROSS CHAMPIONSHIPMay 25…Pala, CAJune 1…Hangtown, CAJune 8…Thunder Valley, COJune 15…Mount Morris, PAJune 29…Southwick, MAJuly 6…Red Bud, MIJuly 13…Millville, MNJuly 20…Washougal, WAAugust 10…Unadilla, NYAugust 17…Budds Creek, MDAugust 24…Crawfordsville, IN

2024 SUPERMOTOCROSS (SMX) PLAY-OFFSSept. 7…Concord, NCSept. 14…Fort Worth, TXSept. 21…Las Vegas, NV

2024 FIM WORLD MOTOCROSS CHAMPIONSHIPMar. 10…ArgentinaMar. 24…Spain #1Apr. 7…SardiniaApr. 14…Italy #1May 5…PortugalMay 12…Spain #2May 19…FranceJun. 2…GermanyJun. 9…LatviaJune 16…Italy #2June 30…Indonesia #1July 7…Indonesia #2July 21…Czech RepublicJuly. 28..BelgiumAug. 11…SwedenAug. 18…HollandAug 25…SwitzerlandSept. 8… TurkeySept. 16…ChinaSept. 29….Spain #3

2024 WORLD TWO-STROKE CHAMPIONSHIPApr. 19-20…Glen Helen, CA

2024 GLEN HELN STOPWATCH NATIONALMay 16…Glen Helen, CA

LORETTA LYNN NATIONAL AMATEUR CHAMPIONSHIPJul. 29-Aug. 3…Hurricane Mills, TN

2024 MOTOCROSS DES NATIONSOct. 6…Matterley Basin, UK

2024 WORLD VET MOTOCROSS CHAMPIONSHIPNov. 2-3…Glen Helen, CA

2024 GNCC CHAMPIONSHIPFeb. 17-18… Union, SCMar. 2-3…Palatka, FLMar. 23-24…Society Hills, SCApr. 13-14…Monterey, TNApr. 27-28…Crawfordsville, INMay 11-12…St. Clairsville, OHJune 1-2…Mt. Morris, PAJune 22-23…Snowden, WVAug. 31/Sept.1…Newburg, WVSept. 14-15…Beckley, WVSept. 28-29…Millfield, OHOct. 26-27…Crawfordsville, IN

2024 WORCS CHAMPIONSHIPJan. 5-7…Taft, CAJan. 26-28…Glen Helen, CAFeb 23-25…Marysville, CAMar. 15-17…Lake Havasu, AZApr. 12-14…Blythe, CAMay 17-19…Cedar City, UTSept. 6-7…Glen Helen, CAOct. 4-6…Mesquite, NVNov. 1-3…Primm, NV

2024 DUTCH MASTERS OF MOTOCROSSMar. 17…HarfsenApr. 4…OldebroekApr. 21…Markelo

2024 ADAC MX MASTERSApr. 21…Princely DrehnaApr. 28…DreetzMay 26…VellahnJun. 23…BielsteinJuly 14,…TensfeldAug. 4…GaildorfSept. 1…TBASept. 22…Holzgerlingen

2024 SATURDAY AT THE GLEN MOTOCROSS (UPDATED) Jan. 13…Winter Series #1 (Arroyo track)Jan. 20…Winter Series #2 (National trackFeb. 3…Winter Series #3 (Arroyo track)Feb. 24…Winter Series #4 (Arroyo track)Mar. 16…Winter Series #5 (National track)Mar. 23…Spring Series #1 (Arroyo track)Apr. 13…Spring Series #2 (Arroyo track)Apr. 20…World Two-Stroke Championship (Nationla & Arroyo track)May 4…Spring Series #3 (National track-double points)May 11…Spring Series #4 (National track)May 18…Spring Series #5 (Arroyo track)June 1…Summer Series #1 (Arroyo track)June 15…Summer Series #2 (National track)July 6…Summer Series #3 (Arroyo track)July 27…Summer Series #4 (Arroyo track)Aug. 3….Summer Series #5 (National track)Aug. 24…Fall Series #1 (Arroyo track)Aug. 31…Fall Series #2 (Arroyo track)Sept. 14…Fall Series #3 (National track)Oct. 5…Fall Series #4 (Arroyo track)Oct. 19…Fall Series #5 (Arroyo track)Oct. 26…Winter Series #1 (National track)Nov. 16..Winter Series #2 (Arroyo track)Nov. 23..Winter Series #3 (Arroyo track)Dec. 7…Winter Series #4 (Arroyo track)Dec. 21…Winter Series #4 (National track)

It is either El Chucacabra or the Abdominal Snowman out testing. You’re guess is as good as ours.

Not only does MXA always park in the exact same spot every week at the races, but it is valet parking.

You can find Motocross Action logos in the strangest places, but you never expect to see it at an air show on a Sbach 342 Thunderbolt aerobatic plane.

Believe it or not, a Yamaha YZ250 will fit in small SUV if you take the front forks off.

This was Larry Brook’s first MXA cover photo. He would get 200 more, but he remembers this August 1983 one the most.

One of the many times that Husqvarna banned MXA. They always forgave us, but this was pretty unforgivable.

Gary Jones (left) and David Bailey (right) show off the differences in their respective AMA 250 National Championship machinery.

This Frank Thomason photo to Ricky Johnson jumping the San Diego Supercross finish line jump in his off-road truck wowed the hometown crowd.

Brian Medeiors showss the true meaning of “letting it all hang out.”

Daryl Ecklund found the hot line while racing though Sweden.

You know that motocross bikes are getting too complicated when you have to tape a crib sheet to a Honda CRF450’s crossbar pad to explain how all the buttons worked.

You can’t afford not to subscribe, because when you order a subscription, Rocky Mountain ATV/MC sends you a $25 gift credit to use on anything you want from their massive selection. Plus, subscribers to MXA can also choose to get the digital mag on their iPhone, iPad, Kindle or Android by going to the Apple Store, Amazon or Google Play. Even better, you can subscribe to Motocross Action and Dirt Bike for one low price and get a $50 E-Gift card—plus you get the awesome print edition delivered to your house by a uniformed employee of the U.S. Government. Do we have to mention the $25 Rocky Mountain ATV/MC gift card again? That gift means that your subscription balances out as free, free, free! You can’t lose on this deal? Call (800) 767-0345 or Click Here

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Photos Credits: Trevor Nelson, Debbi Tamietti, GasGas, Brian Converse, and MXA archives