From a press release issued by AMA Pro Racing:

AMA PRO RACING TO ADD 250 CLASS TO SUPERMOTO CHAMPIONSHIP

PICKERINGTON, Ohio (Feb. 10, 2005) — AMA Pro Racing announced today that a 250cc class will be added to the 2005 Supermoto championship season. The Supermoto class (450cc), Supermoto Unlimited (490cc +) and Honda Red Riders Junior Supermoto Challenge will remain part of the program and be joined by the new class, specifically for 250cc, four-stroke machines.

In making the announcement, Kerry Graeber, AMA Pro Racing Vice President, Director of Communications said that the decision was made partly in response to the large number of requests to add the class. “We have heard a tremendous amount of feedback suggesting that we include 250s,” said Graeber. “We want to be responsive to this demand while recognizing the equity that has been built up in the Supermoto and Supermoto Unlimited classes, so we will run all three, plus the Junior program, in 2005. Beyond 2005 we’ll have to assess what the market demand and equipment availability is for each class.”

Graeber also said that there will be some adjustments to the racing program this year. “Along with adding 250s, we’re also planning on implementing timed qualifying to the program. This will enable us to streamline the qualifying process given the larger number of entries that are expected,” said Graeber.

It was also announced that the Supermoto class will feature a two race finale. “Running two 450cc class finals at each round will make the title chase more interesting and provide a better show for our fans,” stated Graeber.

Points for each race will go towards the championship. Technical rules for the new 250 class are being finalized. It is expected that the 250 rule structure will be comparable to what is currently in place for Supermoto and Supermoto Unlimited in terms of allowable modifications. Graeber also commented that the 2005 schedule is being finalized with key events such as the Copper Mountain double header, Nashville, Reno and Las Vegas rounds set to return, along with a couple of new venues.