Dungey bounces back, but is it for real?

Ryan Dungey secured KTM its third ever Heavies (450) class victory and his third victory for the 2012 season. The question is he back to the dominant form and position he has enjoyed the last couple of seasons being part of the Fast Five (Villopoto, Reed, Stewart, Canard and Dungey) as the other four of the fast five are out with injury, and Dungey just returning after being out with a broken collar bone injury. Is the victory a real indication of Dungey being back in form?

It is interesting to note that Andrew Short the previous rounds winner at Seattle was no where near the front in Salt Lake City. As have been the people who have been finishing runner up to Villopoto previously, like Josh Grant - finishes second then back to nowhere again. The only riders that have shown much consistency have been Millsaps, Brayton and Weimer and even they have been a bit all over the map. Will this mean that Dungey will be nowhere again come the final in Vegas? or will he stamp his authority on the class with another win?

With all the championships locked up the Las Vegas round becomes a bit of a lame duck race. The only ones with anything at stake are the riders chasing the Supercross scraps, the battle for second in the championship. This is essentially a battle between Millsaps and Brayton. Weimer has a slim shot as does Dungey. Who will lay up and play it safe to make it to the Outdoor Motocross season?

Let me know what you think?

Another one bites the dust! Villopoto out for the remainer of the season, will not be able to defend his Motocross title.

Here is the release from Kawasaki:

Monster Energy Kawasaki’s Ryan Villopoto will not defend his AMA Motocross title in 2012 after injuring his knee at the Seattle supercross on Saturday night. The two-time AMA Supercross and defending AMA Motocross champion will undergo surgery on his knee this week.

“I’m pretty disappointed right now,” said Villopoto. “I have trained hard for this season and even though I won the supercross title, I really wanted to defend my outdoor championship. I’ve been through injury before and I know how hard I have to work to get back.”

Villopoto is coming off of a dominant 16 months where the Poulsbo, Wash. native earned two AMA Supercross titles on the strength of 15 wins, the AMA Motocross Championship with three wins and also the richest payday in supercross with a million dollar win at the Monster Energy Cup.

Ryan Villopto may want to think about skipping the Seattle Supercross round in the future. Even thought it is a home round for Villopoto he has had terrible luck there, having the horrible crash in 2010 that took him out of the Championship fight as he looked to making a run at the title, and now with the title luckily wrapped up as a result of all the other contenders injuries Ryan has his own injury issues which will take him out of the sport for the rest of the 2012 season. The other problem a injury has is that it kills any momentum that you may have built up, that winning seasons provide the ring of confidence and a seemingly armor of invincibility. 

So what do you think about this development for the US Outdoor Motocross Championship? Will it be a snoozer with all the major players in the MX Heavies (450) class out for the year? Who is the favourite now to take the title? Will Stewart ride the outdoors now? Dungey? Alessi? Short? Millsaps? Metcalf? What a terrible time for Townley to be injured as he had Factory bikes and was near peak performance.

Let me know your opinion for the 2012 US Motocross season!

Ducati being sold to VW/Audi

I wonder what the fall out will be from the sale of Ducati to VW/Audi? The benefit is that they bring needed capital to grow the Ducati brand and improve production, quality control and stream line areas to create more profitability. One of these areas that could be "stream lined" by the bean counters is the racing department. With Moto GP results being so poor and the fact that the Doctor, Rossi, can't seem to get the project turned around into a winning package Ducati may just be tempted to pull out of Moto GP and save themselves a fortune and the embarrassment they are currently facing.

Racing, especially at Moto GP level, never works out to be a fiscally responsible plan. Generally only viable if you can partner with other sponsors and sell advertising to share the cost or look at the bigger picture of positive brand exposure across many different markets. This only works if you have a consistently competitive package of rider and equipment that is either winning or at least in contention for a win. Currently Ducati's Moto GP effort is probably garnering more negative impressions than positive ones. Obviously this is not hurting sales, as I believe unit numbers and market share is increasing. However, that could be driven by the successful World Superbike effort of Carlos Checca which has been farmed out to a satellite team. 

While I enjoy the technology and spectacle of Moto GP, Superbikes makes more sense to me if I was a manufacturer of motorcycles, since they are derived from versions of bikes sold to the public. There is a direct link between sales and racing in Superbikes case. In Moto GP the bikes are prototypes that can not be purchased in any shape or form (except Ducati who released a limited edition Moto GP replica) There is no direct correlation between the money being spent racing and actual sales.

It will be interesting to see how the change in ownership will effect Ducati's racing strategy. What is your opinion?

Strange Times!

These are strange times in the motocross world. It appears (according to the rumor mill) that James Stewart and Joe Gibbs Racing are set to part ways. I guess the honey moon didn't last very long and like a Kardashian marriage it is headed for divorce. It is odd since at the start of the season both parties were so in love with the other. For Stewart it was a home coming of sorts as he was to be reunited with former mechanic and current Joe Gibbs Team Manager Jeremy Albrecht. With personal phone calls from the coach Joe Gibbs further courting James and the temptation of a Nascar drive when his motorcycling career ended. 

How times have changed. James initially rode cautiously and still crashed and then with wild reckless abandon and crashed some more. Eventually James crashed himself out of the championship and on to the injured list. Is it that James has failed to gel with the seemingly odd handling of the new generation YZ450? He has had troubles adjusting to it since its inception. However Joe Gibbs Racing they were supposed to be able to work magic and make the Yamaha do what James wanted. Maybe James couldn't tell them which direction to take and has become lost and disillusioned in developing this bike for his riding requirements. Perhaps the Joe Gibbs Team think James is giving less than 100% effort, especially during the week with training and testing. James certainly has plenty of possibilities for being distracted - TV show (is it still on? I only ever saw one episode and that was enough for me) he has more money than he knows what to do with (especially at his age) lots of fancy cars, a nice pad and I am sure an active social life. Maybe the truth is that it is a bit of both. James doesn't feel comfortable and confident on the bike especially when pushing and the changes maybe didn't make as much of a difference as hoped so the James backed down the training and allowed more distractions to enter and this leads to the team thinking they are getting less than 100% from the rider. 

For sure this supercross season has seen more than normal amounts of carnage, crashes and injuries. Of all the class favorites only Villopoto has escaped unscathed and picked up his second championship in the process. Carnard, Morias, Reed, Dungey, Stewart and a bunch of others have been beat up and injured this season. Are the tracks to difficult, or poorly designed, the four stroke bikes which have a larger displacement and weigh more than the 250 strokes that they replaced or is it just that everyone is pushing so hard and fast now? Whatever the reason it has been a season marred with injuries.

Now come the interesting twist! Chad Reed who is both the rider and team owner at Two Two Motorsports ( I personally hate the name and think it would have been better named Reed Racing!) gets injured while in a tight battle for the championship and at the point of crashing looked to be the fastest and most consistent rider on the circuit. I dare say that if Reed had not have been injured Villopoto may not have earned his second championship. The problem for Chad is that now he has all the personnel and Factory Honda's sitting around doing nothing, and sponsors not getting any exposure. Realizing the extent of his injuries Chad decides to hire New Zealand speedster Ben Townley away from the Australian Honda squad that he had signed on to race the Australian Championships this year having been banished from AMA racing and World GP's for being constantly injured. For 2012 Ben Townley was looking like a new man fully healed from all previous injuries and rejuvenated he promptly spanked all the New Zealanders for their National Title and was on his way to doing the same when he was contacted by Chad at Two Two. Unfortunately Ben had a nasty crash at an Australian Championship round, which he was using as warm up for the US AMA series. It was to be his last ride in Australia before coming to the US to begin preparations with Two Two Motorsports. I wish Ben Townley a speedy recovery but the extent of his injuries are such that I am sure he will not be racing for the remainder of 2012. This leaves Chad Reed and Two Two riderless again!

In the strange but might be true category we have Stewart possibly with out a ride since his relationship with Joe Gibbs Racing seems sure to end in a divorce, and Chad Reed needing a rider that has championship potential. The Honda CRF450 seems to be a known quantity as Chad was leading the series in 2011 before his crash at Milleville and Barcia has won on it at the end of 2011 joining as a fill in rider for the last 3 races last year. If Stewart thinks he needs a different bike, could the Honda be the bike that allows him to regain the mantel of the fastest racer in the world? I am sure Reed doesn't want to pay James, especially since James has harpooned Chad on more than one occasion possibly costing Chad at least one or more titles. On James side of the coin if he does leave the security of a 3 year deal with Joe Gibbs then where does he go? He left Kawasaki and they have Villopoto anyways. Honda has a full stable and I am sure they are trying to make room next year to be able to keep Barcia on Red bikes in 2013. KTM has Dungey and the young Euro guns of Roczen and Musquin will be moving up at some point. Yamaha doesn't have an official team and he will not be welcome on any of those teams and it seems he doesn't like the bike either so I don't see that working. Suzuki could work and apparently he did test Factory Suzuki's at the start of the year it is rumored that he was very comfortable and fast on them. The one factor stopping Suzuki is budget. So James options seem limited, especially if he doesn't ride outdoor motocross. However, if he did ride the outdoor series and ripped it up on the Two Two Honda's then suddenly his stock will rise and he will be a desirable commodity. It could be interesting.

My personal feeling is regardless weather Joe Gibbs Racing and James split or stay together, James will not race the outdoor motocross series. I don't think James is motivated by money anymore, and he has a perfect season and outdoor title on his mantel already. Racing the outdoor series requires LOTS of physical training, riding the bike, pounding out numerous laps on burnt out tracks and testing. All things I suspect that James now loathes. I think he still finds Supercross interesting as it is a test for him to find new lines and ways over the obstacles, it allows him to be creative and I think that is what currently drives James and provides him with contentment and is his motivation.

Craig Russell.

About this Blog!

Currently I run Motovacation USA, primarily a motocross tour and vacation business, however we can arrange any vacation package you desire including other riding disciplines such as cruisers, sport bikes and even hot rods and custom cars. The aim is for Motovacation USA to be the perfect escape for any gear head that loves to ride. We cater to the recreational and professional rider alike and can tailor the optimum experience depending on their needs and desires.Check it out at www.motovacationUSA.com

My Blog is about any thing motorcycling - from AMA Supercross / Motocross, World MX GP's, Moto GP, World Superbike, Hill climbs, Hare scrambles or even trials I hope to cover it here and for you to have you say as well. I look forward to hearing from fellow motorcycle enthusiasts, your rides, experiences and local race results.

Team Two Two and the unfortunate Townley

Looks like Team Two Two will be riderless for the up coming US National series as Ben Townley, who was slated to fill in for the remainder of the 2012 season, has apparently had a major crash in practice at the second round of the Australian MX series. First reports say it could be a dislocated hip. The Black Cloud that has followed Townley in recent years, since he won the 250 East SX Title and finished second to Ryan Villopoto in the 250 (Lites) outdoor championship, has struck again as it seemed he was about to mount a charge back to the top of the Motocross world, having secured a Factory Honda ride through Two Two Motorsports. Two Two Motorsports primary rider and team owner, Chad Reed, has been forced out of racing for the remainder of 2012 with injuries he sustained while in contention for the Supercross championship. While wishing Ben Townley a speedy and complete recovery, I hope that Team Two Two can find a replacement rider that will be a contender for the AMA Motocross Championship.

Welcome to Motovacation USA!

Welcome to Motovacation USA where we create memories that will last a lifetime.

Are you ready for the Vacation of a Lifetime? 

MotovacationUSA is about creating memories and experiences that will last a lifetime, located in the heart of the Southern Californian motocross and motorsport heaven. Just bring your riding gear and we will take care of the rest. Great weather year round, perfectly prepared tracks to ride and enjoy 7 days a week make this a paradise for all motorsport enthusiasts. This is the motorcycle industry Mecca. Come ride on the same tracks with your heroes and some of the fastest racers on the planet. You can see many of the internationally known teams and factory research and development programs out testing the latest secrets for their team bikes and even future models.
MotovacationUSA allows you to travel and ride with all the comforts of home available as there are comfortable bedrooms, kitchen, living area, BBQ, fire pit, in ground swimming pool and a full garage / workshop area.
MotovacationUSA can custom tailor the tour to your personal needs. Our most common standard vacation is a 1 week or 2 week experience with a Monday to Monday schedule. It involves riding 3 or 4 times per week at some of the best prepared tracks in the world. We have GoPro cameras available to record your laps and experience. Your stay will also include attending National Supercross / Motocross or World Championship events when they are local or racing and competing at some of the most famous local races. MotovacationUSA offer many other options to create the ultimate vacation experience.
We will also have sightseeing / adventure days where we visit Southern California attractions, beaches and sights. Of course we will also venture to several of the most prestigious motorcycling aftermarket manufacturers for a detailed tour. MotovacationUSA is conveniently located close major motorsport outlets such as Chaparral and Malcolm Smith Motorsport (go in and see Malcolm Smith himself and have him personally autograph memorabilia for you) We are also close to several large shopping and outlet malls where some AMAZING shopping deals can be had!
MotovacationUSA has a program that is perfect for everyone whether you're the casual rider looking for a great time or a pro level racer looking to step up to the next level by competing against the best competition available. For Pro riders this is a great opportunity to get in front of the motorcycle industry heavy weights and maintain your racing edge between events in your own countries event schedule or pre season training. MotovacationUSA also offers extended stay options for those wishing to create a longer experience, or race the National Series or large amateur events, such as the World Mini GP.
Southern California is home to the largest Vet and Vintage racing scene. Most riding facilities have dedicated Vet rider tracks that are jump friendly. At the races there are classes for riders of all ages and abilities, old fast guys, old slow guys and everything between. Many of the Factory Stars of yesteryear still race, so come rub elbows with your childhood heroes. Come see some amazingly pristine classic bikes that have been lovingly restored. Since they have age groups up to over 80 years old, you are never too old to ride or race here! MotovacationUSA offer family packages so the whole family can enjoy the experience. Nothing bonds a family like riding, racing, spending quality time and creating memories that will last a lifetime together.
MotovacationUSA can arrange bachelor / bucks or bachelorette / hens weeks. What better way to send your best friend off into married life than an exciting week or two in Southern California, riding, racing, swimming in our pool, sitting around our fire pit eating BBQ food, drinking a beer or a glass of wine and bench racing together.
We can arrange optional days such as: riding schools, riding some classic cruisers up the picturesque California coastline, visit Las Vegas for some fun, head to Mexico, Disneyland, road racing track days as the Fontana Raceway is merely minutes away. We can also arrange skydiving, surfing, skiing, hot rod shows, concerts and even wine tour packages. If you can think of it we can arrange it!

Pricing:

8 day tour:
Up to 3 days of riding and 1 day of racing, sightseeing including tours of Pro Circuit, Troy Lee, Chaparral, Malcolm Smith Motorsports, Universal Studios, beaches, the biggest and best outlet malls etc.
Cost $1500 usd

15 day tour:
Up to 6 days of riding and 2 days of racing, sightseeing including tours of Pro Circuit, Troy Lee, Chaparral, Malcolm Smith Motorsports, Universal Studios, beaches, the biggest and best outlet malls etc.
Cost $2500 usd

Additional Options:

Sport Bike Track Days:

Fontana Auto Club Speedway 2.3 mile AMA Track $269 (www.fastrackriders.com)Youtube clip: www.youtube.com/watch?v=CZO11cbC1BE
Track day bike rental (www.Xtrememotorcyclerental.com)
• Standard Track Rental ($389) Option includes tire warmers, gas, and street/track tires with full pit service
• Race Bike Rental ($600) Option includes a full race bike with complete race bodywork and race parts along with race tires and full pit service.

Road race gear rental:
*ACT Leather Rentals, $65
*Alpinestar rental boots $20
*Helmet rentals $15
*Alpinestar gloves $5
*Back Protector $10

Harley Davidson Rentals:

Cruise up the coast or through the many mountains that surround MotovacationUSA
$150/day - Single day rate (plus tax and insurance)
$125/day - 5 day minimum (plus tax and insurance

Pole position Indoor Kart Racing:

www.polepositionraceway.com

Sky Diving:

Tandem Skydive $189
Sensory Overload $234
AFF Ultimate First Jump Course $349
AFF Levels 2 & 3 $239 each
AFF levels 4-8 $219 each*
USPA membership (required by AFF Level 4)
    Resident - $65
    Foreign - $74

Indoor Sky Diving:

First Time Flyers
Adults  (2 Flights) $50.00
2 Additional Flights $30.00
Anyone can fly! From Ages 3 - 103.
Your Experience Includes:
• Flight training taught by a certified Body
Flight Instructor!
• All the Indoor Skydiving gear you'll need from head to toe!
• Two flights in the skydiving simulator!
(More freefall than 2 skydives from  12,500ft.)
• Souvenir flight certificate to show that you experienced
120 mph of body flight!
Return Flyers (2 Flights) $40

Las Vegas Trips:

Las Vegas is only about 3.5 hours away. It can be a fun trip to include in your trip, remember what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas!

Other Options:

The options are limitless at MotovacationUSA; we can also arrange skydiving, surfing, skiing, hot rod shows, concerts, horse riding and even wine tour packages. If you can think of it we can arrange it!
Groups are welcome. We have family rooms for couples. Come celebrate your Birthday with us and enjoy the best Vet racing in the World with classes for +25 year olds through to +60 year olds also there is plenty of Vintage racing with American Retrocross, Cal VMX and Marty Tripes’ CMC Vintage racing. We can cater to Bucks / Bachelor or even Hens parties; what better way to send off a friend into married life than a week or two riding, racing and enjoying ALL that Southern California has to offer.
Contact: motovacationUSA@gmail.com
Phone: +1 714 FOR MOTO or +1 714 367 6686