Spirit of Sturgis TT: Progressive American Flat Track Hits the Streets for a Historic Debut on August 11, 2024
America’s Original Extreme Sport Takes Over Downtown Sturgis Streets for the final day of the 84th City of Sturgis Motorcycle Rally
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (December 19, 2023) – AMA Pro Racing, in collaboration with Øuterkind and the City of Sturgis, is proud to announce a major new event on the 2024 Progressive American Flat Track schedule: the inaugural Spirit of Sturgis TT. This spectacle of motorcycle sport is scheduled for August 11, 2024, coinciding with the final Sunday of the 84th Annual City of Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, continuing the city’s legacy of motorcycle racing that dates back to 1938.
“The history and the legacy of the City of Sturgis Motorcycle Rally started with racing,” said Mark Carstensen, mayor of the City of Sturgis. “To host this event, Sturgis is building the bridge to the future.”
The Spirit of Sturgis TT is a culmination of the collaborative effort to combine the rich heritage and tradition of the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally with American Flat Track’s 70+ years of national championship racing to create a modern-day racing spectacle for fans. This groundbreaking event, taking place in the vibrant heart of downtown Sturgis, will feature an innovative mix of street and dirt sections and will be free for the public to attend.
“The Spirit of Sturgis TT is not just a race; it’s a tribute to the enduring legacy of the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, blending tradition with innovation,” said Gene Crouch, CEO of AMA Pro Racing. “Racing through the storied streets of Sturgis promises a spectacular new chapter in the city’s rich history in motorcycle racing, while offering an unparalleled experience for fans and competitors.”
“The inaugural Spirit of Sturgis TT race is an embodiment of our agency’s commitment to delivering an exceptional motorsports experience within the world’s most iconic motorcycle rally.” says Ben Keane, Partner, Øuterkind. “We believe the race will not only captivate the hearts of enthusiasts during this rally but will carve its own legacy to attract new audiences while becoming a sought-after part of the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally for years to come.”
Building on the series’ history of hybrid courses, including past events like the DAYTONA TT and Atlanta Super TT, the Spirit of Sturgis TT is set to offer an unmatched racing experience. The unique setting of racing through the heart of the world-renowned Rally promises to deliver a memorable event for both participants and spectators.
For the first time, Progressive AFT’s Mission SuperTwins and Parts Unlimited Singles presented by KICKER classes will navigate a challenging course through Sturgis’ bustling streets. The 0.5-mile circuit will include legendary Main Street and each race will start and finish at the iconic Harley-Davidson Rally Point.
In a significant expansion for Progressive AFT, the event will also feature the debut of the AFT AdventureTrackers class. This new category will introduce the latest production-based Adventure Bikes, providing the motorcycle industry with an opportunity to showcase the rapidly growing segment. The new class aligns with the City of Sturgis’ tradition of embracing the future of motorcycling and has sparked considerable interest among manufacturers, leading to rumors of high-profile entries for the event.
Full details of the AFT AdventureTrackers class will be announced in the near future as will additional information regarding viewing options for the first annual Spirit of Sturgis TT.
SUZUKI ANNOUNCES 2024 SUPERMOTOCROSS TEAMS AND RIDERS
HEP Motorsports and BARX Ready to Attack the 2024 SMX Season
BREA, CA – Suzuki Motor USA, LLC (Suzuki) is pleased to name its riders for the upcoming 2024 Supermotocross season. The HEP Motorsports and BARX Suzuki teams arrive back to represent Suzuki with strong returning talent along with promising new recruits. The Pipes Motorsports Group’s dual team effort will again compete in the 450-class championship. The 2024 Toyota Redlands BARX Suzuki squad will field a solid lineup of five riders competing for action across both 250 and 450 classes.
For 2024, HEP Motorsports returns with two squads under the HEP canopy: Progressive Insurance ECSTAR Suzuki and Twisted Tea Suzuki Presented by Progressive Insurance.
The 2024 Progressive Insurance ECSTAR Suzuki team features elite rider Ken Roczen (94) competing on the proven Suzuki RM-Z450. Roczen had an extremely successful season in 2023 in his return to Suzuki; earned an emotional win at the Indy Supercross and captured several podium finishes throughout 2023. Roczen’s intelligent, technical riding style and solid performances resulted in a strong second-place finish in the 2023 Supermotocross Championship, and tied for third place in the 2023 Supercross season. Roczen was also crowned the overall winner of the MXGP class at the MX of Nations in France and capped off the season as the 2023 World Supercross Champion.
“I am excited to be back for 2024 with the Progressive Insurance ECSTAR Suzuki Team. We have built a great foundation, and I am eager to continue to try and put our Suzuki on the podium. The team and I are very motivated!” said Roczen.
Ken Roczen (94) is ready to extend his 2023 momentum into continued strong 2024 success. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
HEP Motorsports’ Twisted Tea Suzuki Presented by Progressive Insurance effort continues in 2024 with veteran riders, crowd favorite Kyle Chisholm (11) from Clearwater, FL, and established pro Shane McElrath (12) who hails from Canton, NC.
With off-season training continuing, Kyle Chisholm (11) brings his setup expertise to the 2024 Supermotocross World Championship. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
In 2023, Chisholm brought solid competition and race bike set-up experience to the HEP team while also racing to 17th in the 2023 Supermotocross World Championship. Chisholm earned consistent finishes across the supercross and motocross segments of the season. His testing and development skills behind the scenes were a key element to the HEP team’s 2023 success. With Chisholm’s extensive background in both SX and MX, Chisholm’s behind-the-scenes work, and insights will be instrumental to the HEP team’s continued progression.
“I’m looking forward to the 2024 season with the team. This will be my second year with the team, and I am pleased with all the progress made in 2023 with the RM-Z450 and with the team as a whole. Everyone worked great together, and we are looking to build on that and be even better in 2024. The team is working extremely hard, and we have such a good starting place, I feel we are going to do great things. I am looking forward to the season and having fun and more success with the team,” stated Chisholm.
Shane McElrath (12) eagerly preps for the Supermotocross World Championship at Anaheim 1. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA. LLC.
Alongside Chisholm, the team fields Shane McElrath who returns for 2024 and further augments the team’s 450-class effort to lead the RM Army. A two-time 250 West series championship runner-up, McElrath is anticipating making serious strides in 2024.
“I’m excited to be back with the Twisted Tea Progressive Suzuki Team for the full 2024 season, and am looking forward to continuing to grow and build off of everything learned last season. It’s a strong team, a really good group of people with a lot of experience; so I’m looking to apply their wealth of knowledge this year. I think that will do a lot for me and I’m eager to go racing. We’ll see you all in Anaheim!” said McElrath.
Pipes Motorsports Group Team Principle, Dustin Pipes echoes his riders’ enthusiasm for the upcoming season. “I am genuinely excited for the 2024 season. The team is working extremely hard in preparation for the season ahead, and we are optimistic to see how it pays off. We have a great group returning with Ken, Shane, and Kyle where we hope to build on the continuity achieved during last season. All our athletes represent the team to the highest standard, and I couldn’t ask for a better group of guys to race with,” commented Pipes.
Respected leader Larry Brooks will continue as HEP’s team manager, and Brooks anticipates continued strong results from both squads. “We are anxious for this upcoming season and motivated for another successful year! We have been working hard this off-season to come into Anaheim 1 ready to race. It’s great to have Ken, Kyle, and Shane return for another season. We made a lot of progress in 2023. We’re looking to continue building in 2024. Ken is coming off a great off-season, winning the World Supercross Championship. Kyle and Shane both had strong off-seasons. A lot of work goes into racing. I look forward to seeing it play out come January 6th at Angel Stadium!” stated Brooks.
Toyota Redlands BARX Suzuki Team
For 2024, Toyota Redlands BARX Suzuki will primarily race the sharp-handling Suzuki RM-Z250s while also fielding one rider in the 450 class with the Suzuki RM-Z450. BARX will field a team of five young competitors with diverse, progressive backgrounds in multiple SX and MX series. Each has the same desire and objective of putting BARX Suzuki on the podium in 2024.
Toyota Redlands BARX Suzuki will field up-and-coming rider Preston Boespflug (128), a fierce, young competitor climbing up the SMX ranks. From the aptly named Battle Ground, WA, Boespflug carded a promising sixth place in the 250 All-Stars main event at the 2023 SMX World Championship finale. Boespflug brings his strong work ethic and a focused, competitive spirit to the BARX squad. He will gain valuable experience competing in the first round of the Supercross Futures at Anaheim 2 before moving to contest the 250 East series in 2024, his first full SMX season as a pro.
“I’m incredibly excited to start my rookie season on a solid bike. The Suzuki RM-Z250 has been great this preseason and my team has been behind me each step of the way!” exclaimed Boespflug.
Preston Boespflug (128) looks to make an impression with Toyota Redlands BARX Suzuki in his first pro season. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
Former national French 250-class phenom, Anthony Bourdon (945) looks to transfer his global experience to SMX success for BARX in 2024. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
Another substantial addition to the 2024 BARX team is Anthony Bourdon (945), the seven-year pro and the 2020 French Elite national MX2 champion. Hailing from the surfing hotbed of Europe- Seignosse, France, Bourdon has been a solid and stylish SX2 competitor on the world stage, with a strong overall podium result at the 2023 Paris Supercross including a main event win; Bourdon joins BARX to bring his ample riding skills to SMX on the Suzuki RM-Z250.
“I am incredibly happy to race in the US riding with Suzuki. I began my career racing a Suzuki RM85, and I have great memories of the bike; so I am excited to ride again with Suzuki. Coming to the US to ride Supercross is the dream of any Supercross rider, and I am glad Toyota Redlands BARX Suzuki and Myron gave me this opportunity. I had a good 2023 season, and I feel great mentally and physically. I will give my absolute best to put the yellow bike on the podium. Let’s keep training and see you at A1,” said Bourdon.
Max Miller (87) joins BARX to challenge for the 250 West series crown. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
Another solid rider for the 2024 BARX squad is Max Miller (87) from Springfield, OR also competing in the 250 West series. An established pro in his fourth season, Miller brings solid SX experience to the BARX team for 2024. Returning to the BARX fold for 2024 is Alpine, CA racer Dilan Schwartz (40). Schwartz returns having earned top-15 results in the ultra-competitive class in 2023 and will ride the 250 East series.
Derek Drake (52) heads up BARX’s 450-class SMX effort for 2024. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
Riding for BARX’s 2024 450-class effort, is San Luis Obispo, CA’s Derek Drake (52). Drake will race the Suzuki RM-Z450 and continue to show the incredible speed displayed during select motocross races last year. Named the 2018 AMA Horizon Award winner, and starting his fifth year as a pro, Drake earned multiple top-twelve results in the 250 West class in 2023.
“I am looking forward to the RM-Z450 this season, this will be a whole new challenge for me that I’m incredibly excited about. We also have some new personnel this year that I enjoy working with so it will be a great year!” said Drake.
Also supported by Toyota Redlands BARX Suzuki in the 250 class are three up-and-coming amateur riders, each with solid momentum as they approach the pro sport and gain valuable experience against the sport’s best. Nathan Abbott from Simi Valley CA, Cole Timboe from Calimesa, CA, and Leo Tucker from East Dubuque, IL join the BARX squad. With additional support from Suzuki dealer Simi Valley Cycles, these BARX amateur riders will gain solid experience throughout the 2024 Supermotocross season.
For 2024 Toyota Redlands BARX Suzuki will be managed by James Coy. Coy brings a solid team management background as well as strong amateur rider development experience gained over the last decade. Coy seeks to bring BARX together as a real force in both SMX classes while continuing to develop young riders into vital competitors.
“I am thrilled about this new challenge, I eagerly anticipate contributing to the success of the Toyota Redlands BARX Suzuki team throughout the 2024 Supermotocross season,” claimed Coy.
Suzuki is excited to race with BARX in the 2024 Supermotocross World Championship and anticipates seeing the entire RM Army at the venues and tracks throughout 2024.
The 2024 Supermotocross season kicks off once more at Angel Stadium on January 6th, 2024, for Anaheim 1.
For more racing news, results, and special team content please visit suzukicycles.com/racing/motocross.
The story is as old as racing circuits are. Land uses change around a popular circuit, neighbors complain, land values go up, and the circuit disappears. The litany of circuits that have been devoured by encroaching development in Southern California alone is disturbing to those who have followed motorsport for decades.
But there is a ray of hope in some areas.
Generating solar power requires lots of land. And solar farms are good neighbors to racetracks. They provide a solid buffer zone, sometimes acres, between the circuit and any other land use. They are not disturbed by noise or traffic. They don’t require a lot of people on site. And once they are established, they are not the sort of uses that are easily displaced by residential, commercial, or other industrial uses.
The solar panel farms surrounding Chuckwalla Valley Raceway in Riverside County, California, provide an example. Not that there is a mad rush to develop the area near the Colorado Desert facility, located in an hot, harsh environment that has not exactly attracted the attention of home builders or industry. It is an hour’s drive away from Palm Springs, the closest major population center.
But it is an ideal environment for solar generation. The region is generally sunny, with a mean annual high temperature of 87.4 degrees F and an average rainfall of 3.92 inches. That’s less than 40% of the average rainfall for deserts globally. So the hot, dry, sunny climate has spawned fields of solar panels around the property.
The climate and the adjacent land covered by solar panels help insulate the track from typical problems faced by other tracks, including other forms of development or constant complaints from nearby residents who move near an existing track, then work to close it.
The KYT NZ Race is a race-inspired helmet with a carbon-fiber shell. Extremely lightweight, the NZ Race features an aerodynamic design and industry leading peripheral and vertical fields of vision. Developed with fluid dynamic software and in wind tunnel sessions, the low-drag design reduces neck fatigue, and excellent air flow helps keep the rider cool and prevents fogging. Available in two shell sizes, the KYT NZ Race Carbon exceeds the latest safety standards set by racing organizations worldwide, and is ECE R-22-06 certified. The NZ Race’s light construction and international safety rating puts it in front for everyday usability and safety for street and track. MSRP is $549.99, from KYT dealers or from kytamericas.com.
Roadracing World MotoGP Editor and Isle of Man TT winner Mat Oxley and two-time World Championship-winning Crew Chief Peter Bom have started “The Oxley Bom MotoGP Podcast,” which will be focused on the FIM MotoGP World Championship.
This podcast is “Winter 2023 – No Rest For the Wicked.”
The original podcast can be found on BuzzSprout.com or listened to via other places you get podcasts.
The No-Mar Classic HD Motorcycle Tire Changer allows motorcycle tires to be mounted and dismounted from wheels without electricity or compressed air, and an optional tow hitch mount makes it easy to use at a racetrack. Made from powder-coated steel in America, the patented No-Mar machine features wheel clamps, a mount/demount bar, and a scratch-proof bead breaker. Suggested retail price with either a floor stand or a tow-hitch mount is $689.00 from dealers or from No-Mar Motorcycle Tire Changers, (888) 986-6627, www.nomartirechanger.com .
Six-time Superbike World Champion Jonathan Rea has been producing a regular vlog for several seasons. As he begins his transition to Pata Yamaha Prometeon after spending the last nine seasons with Kawasaki Racing Team, we thought we would look back at Rea’s 2023 season through his own vlogs.
The new line of updated Sportmax Slicks are Dunlop’s latest high-performance race tires! The Sportmax Slicks have new profiles, compounds, and construction to make them the most advanced road race tires Dunlop has ever produced! Dunlop’s Sportmax Slicks are the official tires of the MotoAmerica series, and are available from Dunlop race tire vendors. Pricing for 17-inch tires starts at $192.95. More information is available from www.dunlopracing.com .
AMA Congratulates 2023 AMA Motorcyclist of the Year Jett Lawrence
Also honors 2023 AMA Dud Perkins Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient Jesse Thomas
PICKERINGTON, Ohio — The American Motorcyclist Association offers its congratulations to 2023 AMA Motorcyclist of the Year Jett Lawrence, as well as the 2023 AMA Dud Perkins Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, the late Jesse Thomas.
“Many riders made great contributions to our sport this year and beyond, but Jett Lawrence and Jesse Thomas set themselves apart with their outstanding achievements and dedication to motorcycling,” AMA President and CEO Rob Dingman said. “Jett had an unbelievable run in AMA Supercross and Motocross this year, claiming several championships, making him worthy of the AMA Motorcyclist of the Year distinction. Jesse’s unrelenting love for our sport and his lifelong work to grow motorcycling in Kentucky left no doubt that he was deserving of the AMA Dud Perkins Award.”
Lawrence was a dominant presence on the track throughout the 2023 season, racing his way to the AMA Supercross 250 West, AMA Pro Motocross 450 and SuperMotocross 450 championships. Although Lawrence’s resume in 2023 is impressive on its own, the fashion in which he competed propelled him above the rest.
During his chase for the 450 Pro Motocross title, Lawrence became the only in-class rookie to record a perfect moto-win season, finishing 22-0 for the series.
For Lawrence, his standout 2023 season was the culmination of a long, arduous journey to reach the highest levels of motorcycle racing. A native of Australia, Lawrence and his family — including his brother Hunter, who also races professionally — moved to Europe during the brothers’ teenage years, where they endured economic hardship in the pursuit of racing success.
The Lawrences ultimately proved their racing prowess, moving to the United States in 2018 and earning their AMA Pro licenses in 2019 when Jett was only 16 years old. From there, Jett raced his way to a number of championships — including a pair of AMA Pro Motocross 250 Championships in 2021 and 2022 — completing his ultimate goal of racing at the upper echelon of the sport.
“What Jett Lawrence accomplished this year was extraordinary,” said AMA Board of Directors Chairman Russ Ehnes. “The combination of his AMA Supercross and Pro Motocross wins, as well as his perfect rookie season, was worthy of recognition, which is why we selected him as the 2023 AMA Motorcyclist of the Year. We’re proud to have Jett and his brother Hunter as AMA members, and the Lawrence family’s story — transitioning from Australia to Europe to the United States in search of achieving Jett and Hunter’s racing dreams — is truly compelling.”
Thomas’ lifelong commitment to the sport of motorcycling made him the perfect candidate for the AMA Dud Perkins Lifetime Achievement Award, which is presented annually to an individual who provides the highest level of service to the AMA in any area of activity.
“He did a lot of really good work and impacted a lot of families,” Thomas’ grandson, Chase, said. “It’s really cool that [the AMA] went back and honored him because he did a lot for the riding in this area.”
Thomas established the West Kentucky Trail Riders AMA club in 1970, thus beginning a long run as a race promoter for several AMA National Enduros and Hare Scrambles. In 1987, Thomas founded the KT Riders AMA Club, which currently promotes the longest running AMA Dual Sport series in the country in the LBL 200, which takes place in the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area in Tennessee.
For his tireless efforts as a promoter, Thomas and his family received the AMA Recreational Riding Organizer of the Year in 2019. Despite his passing on Sept. 29, Thomas’ impact is felt throughout his family as his son, Bob, and his grandsons, Chase and Dustin, have continued his work with KT Riders, now known as Thomas Brothers Promotions.
Beyond the world of promoting, Thomas also raced flat track in the late ’50s and owned a successful motorcycle dealership in Cadiz, Ky. Thomas was also a fixture in his community, helping open several county recycling sites, while serving on boards for the Trigg County Hospital, Trigg County Recreation Center, the Tennessee Valley Advisory and the U.S. Forestry Service Advisory.
About the American Motorcyclist Association
Founded in 1924, the AMA is a not-for-profit member-based association whose mission is to promote the motorcycle lifestyle and protect the future of motorcycling. As the world’s largest motorcycling rights and event sanctioning organization, the AMA advocates for riders’ interests at all levels of government and sanctions thousands of competition and recreational events every year. Besides offering members money-saving discounts on products and services, the AMA also publishes American Motorcyclist, a recently revitalized and monthly full-color magazine (and digital version of same) that covers current events and motorcycle history with brilliant photography and compelling writing. American Motorcyclist is also North America’s largest-circulation magazine. Through the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio, the AMA honors the heroes and heritage of motorcycling. For more information, visit AmericanMotorcyclist.com.
Only Few Spots Still Available for the Season Opener on Jan 13th & 14th at J4ORCE Fastrack High Performance Camp with Josh Hayes. NEXT OPPORTUNITY COULD BE NOT UNTIL FALL 2024!
“It was great how Josh gave each of us his undivided attention the entire day.”
Only 10 seats available per day so sign up fast.
“He pulled me aside and encouraged me to push a little harder during a drill and how to do it, and I was surprised at how well I did, and I basically leveled up just like that.”
The J4ORCE Fastrack High Performance Camp is a unique program developed by four-time AMA Pro Superbike Champion Josh Hayes and designed for Fastrack riders and racers that want to learn and improve their skills to ride safer, faster, smarter. The course includes lectures, one-on-one coaching, and flat-track (dirt) drills tailored to help you leap out of your comfort zone in a safer environment while red-lining the fun meter.
“He answered every question we asked… about how we were riding, and even about what goes on behind the scenes in professional racing. Straight up!”
Topics of discussion and drills include:
• Technique
• Race craft
• Situational awareness
• Adapting and learning new tracks
What to expect:
• Flat-track dirt bikes provided
• Food/lunch and hydration replenishments provided
• Protective riding gear NOT provided. MX gear is preferred.
• Please bring:
o Helmet, boots, gloves (MX or road bike helmet, boots, & gloves OK)
o Long sleeve shirt and pants
o MX knee/shin guard. For those who don’t have MX gear, you can use your road racing equipment (suit, boots, gloves, helmet) but be aware they will get dirty. So an old set may be your best bet.
Main Street in Sturgis, South Dakota, as seen during the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. Photo courtesy AFT.
Spirit of Sturgis TT: Progressive American Flat Track Hits the Streets for a Historic Debut on August 11, 2024
America’s Original Extreme Sport Takes Over Downtown Sturgis Streets for the final day of the 84th City of Sturgis Motorcycle Rally
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (December 19, 2023) – AMA Pro Racing, in collaboration with Øuterkind and the City of Sturgis, is proud to announce a major new event on the 2024 Progressive American Flat Track schedule: the inaugural Spirit of Sturgis TT. This spectacle of motorcycle sport is scheduled for August 11, 2024, coinciding with the final Sunday of the 84th Annual City of Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, continuing the city’s legacy of motorcycle racing that dates back to 1938.
“The history and the legacy of the City of Sturgis Motorcycle Rally started with racing,” said Mark Carstensen, mayor of the City of Sturgis. “To host this event, Sturgis is building the bridge to the future.”
The Spirit of Sturgis TT is a culmination of the collaborative effort to combine the rich heritage and tradition of the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally with American Flat Track’s 70+ years of national championship racing to create a modern-day racing spectacle for fans. This groundbreaking event, taking place in the vibrant heart of downtown Sturgis, will feature an innovative mix of street and dirt sections and will be free for the public to attend.
“The Spirit of Sturgis TT is not just a race; it’s a tribute to the enduring legacy of the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, blending tradition with innovation,” said Gene Crouch, CEO of AMA Pro Racing. “Racing through the storied streets of Sturgis promises a spectacular new chapter in the city’s rich history in motorcycle racing, while offering an unparalleled experience for fans and competitors.”
“The inaugural Spirit of Sturgis TT race is an embodiment of our agency’s commitment to delivering an exceptional motorsports experience within the world’s most iconic motorcycle rally.” says Ben Keane, Partner, Øuterkind. “We believe the race will not only captivate the hearts of enthusiasts during this rally but will carve its own legacy to attract new audiences while becoming a sought-after part of the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally for years to come.”
Building on the series’ history of hybrid courses, including past events like the DAYTONA TT and Atlanta Super TT, the Spirit of Sturgis TT is set to offer an unmatched racing experience. The unique setting of racing through the heart of the world-renowned Rally promises to deliver a memorable event for both participants and spectators.
For the first time, Progressive AFT’s Mission SuperTwins and Parts Unlimited Singles presented by KICKER classes will navigate a challenging course through Sturgis’ bustling streets. The 0.5-mile circuit will include legendary Main Street and each race will start and finish at the iconic Harley-Davidson Rally Point.
In a significant expansion for Progressive AFT, the event will also feature the debut of the AFT AdventureTrackers class. This new category will introduce the latest production-based Adventure Bikes, providing the motorcycle industry with an opportunity to showcase the rapidly growing segment. The new class aligns with the City of Sturgis’ tradition of embracing the future of motorcycling and has sparked considerable interest among manufacturers, leading to rumors of high-profile entries for the event.
Full details of the AFT AdventureTrackers class will be announced in the near future as will additional information regarding viewing options for the first annual Spirit of Sturgis TT.
Ken Roczen (94) will once again spearhead Suzuki's efforts in 2024. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
SUZUKI ANNOUNCES 2024 SUPERMOTOCROSS TEAMS AND RIDERS
HEP Motorsports and BARX Ready to Attack the 2024 SMX Season
BREA, CA – Suzuki Motor USA, LLC (Suzuki) is pleased to name its riders for the upcoming 2024 Supermotocross season. The HEP Motorsports and BARX Suzuki teams arrive back to represent Suzuki with strong returning talent along with promising new recruits. The Pipes Motorsports Group’s dual team effort will again compete in the 450-class championship. The 2024 Toyota Redlands BARX Suzuki squad will field a solid lineup of five riders competing for action across both 250 and 450 classes.
For 2024, HEP Motorsports returns with two squads under the HEP canopy: Progressive Insurance ECSTAR Suzuki and Twisted Tea Suzuki Presented by Progressive Insurance.
The 2024 Progressive Insurance ECSTAR Suzuki team features elite rider Ken Roczen (94) competing on the proven Suzuki RM-Z450. Roczen had an extremely successful season in 2023 in his return to Suzuki; earned an emotional win at the Indy Supercross and captured several podium finishes throughout 2023. Roczen’s intelligent, technical riding style and solid performances resulted in a strong second-place finish in the 2023 Supermotocross Championship, and tied for third place in the 2023 Supercross season. Roczen was also crowned the overall winner of the MXGP class at the MX of Nations in France and capped off the season as the 2023 World Supercross Champion.
“I am excited to be back for 2024 with the Progressive Insurance ECSTAR Suzuki Team. We have built a great foundation, and I am eager to continue to try and put our Suzuki on the podium. The team and I are very motivated!” said Roczen.
Ken Roczen (94) is ready to extend his 2023 momentum into continued strong 2024 success. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
HEP Motorsports’ Twisted Tea Suzuki Presented by Progressive Insurance effort continues in 2024 with veteran riders, crowd favorite Kyle Chisholm (11) from Clearwater, FL, and established pro Shane McElrath (12) who hails from Canton, NC.
With off-season training continuing, Kyle Chisholm (11) brings his setup expertise to the 2024 Supermotocross World Championship. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
In 2023, Chisholm brought solid competition and race bike set-up experience to the HEP team while also racing to 17th in the 2023 Supermotocross World Championship. Chisholm earned consistent finishes across the supercross and motocross segments of the season. His testing and development skills behind the scenes were a key element to the HEP team’s 2023 success. With Chisholm’s extensive background in both SX and MX, Chisholm’s behind-the-scenes work, and insights will be instrumental to the HEP team’s continued progression.
“I’m looking forward to the 2024 season with the team. This will be my second year with the team, and I am pleased with all the progress made in 2023 with the RM-Z450 and with the team as a whole. Everyone worked great together, and we are looking to build on that and be even better in 2024. The team is working extremely hard, and we have such a good starting place, I feel we are going to do great things. I am looking forward to the season and having fun and more success with the team,” stated Chisholm.
Shane McElrath (12) eagerly preps for the Supermotocross World Championship at Anaheim 1. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA. LLC.
Alongside Chisholm, the team fields Shane McElrath who returns for 2024 and further augments the team’s 450-class effort to lead the RM Army. A two-time 250 West series championship runner-up, McElrath is anticipating making serious strides in 2024.
“I’m excited to be back with the Twisted Tea Progressive Suzuki Team for the full 2024 season, and am looking forward to continuing to grow and build off of everything learned last season. It’s a strong team, a really good group of people with a lot of experience; so I’m looking to apply their wealth of knowledge this year. I think that will do a lot for me and I’m eager to go racing. We’ll see you all in Anaheim!” said McElrath.
Pipes Motorsports Group Team Principle, Dustin Pipes echoes his riders’ enthusiasm for the upcoming season. “I am genuinely excited for the 2024 season. The team is working extremely hard in preparation for the season ahead, and we are optimistic to see how it pays off. We have a great group returning with Ken, Shane, and Kyle where we hope to build on the continuity achieved during last season. All our athletes represent the team to the highest standard, and I couldn’t ask for a better group of guys to race with,” commented Pipes.
Respected leader Larry Brooks will continue as HEP’s team manager, and Brooks anticipates continued strong results from both squads. “We are anxious for this upcoming season and motivated for another successful year! We have been working hard this off-season to come into Anaheim 1 ready to race. It’s great to have Ken, Kyle, and Shane return for another season. We made a lot of progress in 2023. We’re looking to continue building in 2024. Ken is coming off a great off-season, winning the World Supercross Championship. Kyle and Shane both had strong off-seasons. A lot of work goes into racing. I look forward to seeing it play out come January 6th at Angel Stadium!” stated Brooks.
Toyota Redlands BARX Suzuki Team
For 2024, Toyota Redlands BARX Suzuki will primarily race the sharp-handling Suzuki RM-Z250s while also fielding one rider in the 450 class with the Suzuki RM-Z450. BARX will field a team of five young competitors with diverse, progressive backgrounds in multiple SX and MX series. Each has the same desire and objective of putting BARX Suzuki on the podium in 2024.
Toyota Redlands BARX Suzuki will field up-and-coming rider Preston Boespflug (128), a fierce, young competitor climbing up the SMX ranks. From the aptly named Battle Ground, WA, Boespflug carded a promising sixth place in the 250 All-Stars main event at the 2023 SMX World Championship finale. Boespflug brings his strong work ethic and a focused, competitive spirit to the BARX squad. He will gain valuable experience competing in the first round of the Supercross Futures at Anaheim 2 before moving to contest the 250 East series in 2024, his first full SMX season as a pro.
“I’m incredibly excited to start my rookie season on a solid bike. The Suzuki RM-Z250 has been great this preseason and my team has been behind me each step of the way!” exclaimed Boespflug.
Preston Boespflug (128) looks to make an impression with Toyota Redlands BARX Suzuki in his first pro season. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
Former national French 250-class phenom, Anthony Bourdon (945) looks to transfer his global experience to SMX success for BARX in 2024. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
Another substantial addition to the 2024 BARX team is Anthony Bourdon (945), the seven-year pro and the 2020 French Elite national MX2 champion. Hailing from the surfing hotbed of Europe- Seignosse, France, Bourdon has been a solid and stylish SX2 competitor on the world stage, with a strong overall podium result at the 2023 Paris Supercross including a main event win; Bourdon joins BARX to bring his ample riding skills to SMX on the Suzuki RM-Z250.
“I am incredibly happy to race in the US riding with Suzuki. I began my career racing a Suzuki RM85, and I have great memories of the bike; so I am excited to ride again with Suzuki. Coming to the US to ride Supercross is the dream of any Supercross rider, and I am glad Toyota Redlands BARX Suzuki and Myron gave me this opportunity. I had a good 2023 season, and I feel great mentally and physically. I will give my absolute best to put the yellow bike on the podium. Let’s keep training and see you at A1,” said Bourdon.
Max Miller (87) joins BARX to challenge for the 250 West series crown. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
Another solid rider for the 2024 BARX squad is Max Miller (87) from Springfield, OR also competing in the 250 West series. An established pro in his fourth season, Miller brings solid SX experience to the BARX team for 2024. Returning to the BARX fold for 2024 is Alpine, CA racer Dilan Schwartz (40). Schwartz returns having earned top-15 results in the ultra-competitive class in 2023 and will ride the 250 East series.
Derek Drake (52) heads up BARX’s 450-class SMX effort for 2024. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
Riding for BARX’s 2024 450-class effort, is San Luis Obispo, CA’s Derek Drake (52). Drake will race the Suzuki RM-Z450 and continue to show the incredible speed displayed during select motocross races last year. Named the 2018 AMA Horizon Award winner, and starting his fifth year as a pro, Drake earned multiple top-twelve results in the 250 West class in 2023.
“I am looking forward to the RM-Z450 this season, this will be a whole new challenge for me that I’m incredibly excited about. We also have some new personnel this year that I enjoy working with so it will be a great year!” said Drake.
Also supported by Toyota Redlands BARX Suzuki in the 250 class are three up-and-coming amateur riders, each with solid momentum as they approach the pro sport and gain valuable experience against the sport’s best. Nathan Abbott from Simi Valley CA, Cole Timboe from Calimesa, CA, and Leo Tucker from East Dubuque, IL join the BARX squad. With additional support from Suzuki dealer Simi Valley Cycles, these BARX amateur riders will gain solid experience throughout the 2024 Supermotocross season.
For 2024 Toyota Redlands BARX Suzuki will be managed by James Coy. Coy brings a solid team management background as well as strong amateur rider development experience gained over the last decade. Coy seeks to bring BARX together as a real force in both SMX classes while continuing to develop young riders into vital competitors.
“I am thrilled about this new challenge, I eagerly anticipate contributing to the success of the Toyota Redlands BARX Suzuki team throughout the 2024 Supermotocross season,” claimed Coy.
Suzuki is excited to race with BARX in the 2024 Supermotocross World Championship and anticipates seeing the entire RM Army at the venues and tracks throughout 2024.
The 2024 Supermotocross season kicks off once more at Angel Stadium on January 6th, 2024, for Anaheim 1.
For more racing news, results, and special team content please visit suzukicycles.com/racing/motocross.
Riders at a track day at Chuckwalla Valley Raceway against a backdrop of a vast array of solar panels. With solar power generation on the rise, these land uses are compatible with racetracks and can protect them from the encroachment of developments that are not friendly to circuits. Photo by Michael Gougis.
By Michael Gougis
The story is as old as racing circuits are. Land uses change around a popular circuit, neighbors complain, land values go up, and the circuit disappears. The litany of circuits that have been devoured by encroaching development in Southern California alone is disturbing to those who have followed motorsport for decades.
But there is a ray of hope in some areas.
Generating solar power requires lots of land. And solar farms are good neighbors to racetracks. They provide a solid buffer zone, sometimes acres, between the circuit and any other land use. They are not disturbed by noise or traffic. They don’t require a lot of people on site. And once they are established, they are not the sort of uses that are easily displaced by residential, commercial, or other industrial uses.
The solar panel farms surrounding Chuckwalla Valley Raceway in Riverside County, California, provide an example. Not that there is a mad rush to develop the area near the Colorado Desert facility, located in an hot, harsh environment that has not exactly attracted the attention of home builders or industry. It is an hour’s drive away from Palm Springs, the closest major population center.
But it is an ideal environment for solar generation. The region is generally sunny, with a mean annual high temperature of 87.4 degrees F and an average rainfall of 3.92 inches. That’s less than 40% of the average rainfall for deserts globally. So the hot, dry, sunny climate has spawned fields of solar panels around the property.
The climate and the adjacent land covered by solar panels help insulate the track from typical problems faced by other tracks, including other forms of development or constant complaints from nearby residents who move near an existing track, then work to close it.
A KYT NZ Race helmet. Photo courtesy KYT Americas.
KYT NZ Race Helmet
The KYT NZ Race is a race-inspired helmet with a carbon-fiber shell. Extremely lightweight, the NZ Race features an aerodynamic design and industry leading peripheral and vertical fields of vision. Developed with fluid dynamic software and in wind tunnel sessions, the low-drag design reduces neck fatigue, and excellent air flow helps keep the rider cool and prevents fogging. Available in two shell sizes, the KYT NZ Race Carbon exceeds the latest safety standards set by racing organizations worldwide, and is ECE R-22-06 certified. The NZ Race’s light construction and international safety rating puts it in front for everyday usability and safety for street and track. MSRP is $549.99, from KYT dealers or from kytamericas.com.
Roadracing World MotoGP Editor and Isle of Man TT winner Mat Oxley (right) and two-time World Championship-winning Crew Chief Peter Bom (left). Photo courtesy Mat Oxley.
Roadracing World MotoGP Editor and Isle of Man TT winner Mat Oxley and two-time World Championship-winning Crew Chief Peter Bom have started “The Oxley Bom MotoGP Podcast,” which will be focused on the FIM MotoGP World Championship.
This podcast is “Winter 2023 – No Rest For the Wicked.”
The original podcast can be found on BuzzSprout.com or listened to via other places you get podcasts.
A No-Mar Tire Changer mounted on a tow hitch receiver. Photo courtesy No-Mar Tire Changer.
No-Mar Motorcycle Tire Changer
The No-Mar Classic HD Motorcycle Tire Changer allows motorcycle tires to be mounted and dismounted from wheels without electricity or compressed air, and an optional tow hitch mount makes it easy to use at a racetrack. Made from powder-coated steel in America, the patented No-Mar machine features wheel clamps, a mount/demount bar, and a scratch-proof bead breaker. Suggested retail price with either a floor stand or a tow-hitch mount is $689.00 from dealers or from No-Mar Motorcycle Tire Changers, (888) 986-6627, www.nomartirechanger.com .
Six-time Superbike World Champion Jonathan Rea and his new Pata Yamaha Prometeon YZF-R1. Photo courtesy Yamaha.
Six-time Superbike World Champion Jonathan Rea has been producing a regular vlog for several seasons. As he begins his transition to Pata Yamaha Prometeon after spending the last nine seasons with Kawasaki Racing Team, we thought we would look back at Rea’s 2023 season through his own vlogs.
Dunlop Sportmax Slicks, as used by Josh Hayes, the all-time AMA/MotoAmerica career race win leader. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
Dunlop Sportmax Slicks
The new line of updated Sportmax Slicks are Dunlop’s latest high-performance race tires! The Sportmax Slicks have new profiles, compounds, and construction to make them the most advanced road race tires Dunlop has ever produced! Dunlop’s Sportmax Slicks are the official tires of the MotoAmerica series, and are available from Dunlop race tire vendors. Pricing for 17-inch tires starts at $192.95. More information is available from www.dunlopracing.com .
The American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) offers its congratulations to 2023 AMA Motorcyclist of the Year Jett Lawrence (18), as well as the 2023 AMA Dud Perkins Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, the late Jesse Thomas. Photo courtesy AMA.
AMA Congratulates 2023 AMA Motorcyclist of the Year Jett Lawrence
Also honors 2023 AMA Dud Perkins Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient Jesse Thomas
PICKERINGTON, Ohio — The American Motorcyclist Association offers its congratulations to 2023 AMA Motorcyclist of the Year Jett Lawrence, as well as the 2023 AMA Dud Perkins Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, the late Jesse Thomas.
“Many riders made great contributions to our sport this year and beyond, but Jett Lawrence and Jesse Thomas set themselves apart with their outstanding achievements and dedication to motorcycling,” AMA President and CEO Rob Dingman said. “Jett had an unbelievable run in AMA Supercross and Motocross this year, claiming several championships, making him worthy of the AMA Motorcyclist of the Year distinction. Jesse’s unrelenting love for our sport and his lifelong work to grow motorcycling in Kentucky left no doubt that he was deserving of the AMA Dud Perkins Award.”
Lawrence was a dominant presence on the track throughout the 2023 season, racing his way to the AMA Supercross 250 West, AMA Pro Motocross 450 and SuperMotocross 450 championships. Although Lawrence’s resume in 2023 is impressive on its own, the fashion in which he competed propelled him above the rest.
During his chase for the 450 Pro Motocross title, Lawrence became the only in-class rookie to record a perfect moto-win season, finishing 22-0 for the series.
For Lawrence, his standout 2023 season was the culmination of a long, arduous journey to reach the highest levels of motorcycle racing. A native of Australia, Lawrence and his family — including his brother Hunter, who also races professionally — moved to Europe during the brothers’ teenage years, where they endured economic hardship in the pursuit of racing success.
The Lawrences ultimately proved their racing prowess, moving to the United States in 2018 and earning their AMA Pro licenses in 2019 when Jett was only 16 years old. From there, Jett raced his way to a number of championships — including a pair of AMA Pro Motocross 250 Championships in 2021 and 2022 — completing his ultimate goal of racing at the upper echelon of the sport.
“What Jett Lawrence accomplished this year was extraordinary,” said AMA Board of Directors Chairman Russ Ehnes. “The combination of his AMA Supercross and Pro Motocross wins, as well as his perfect rookie season, was worthy of recognition, which is why we selected him as the 2023 AMA Motorcyclist of the Year. We’re proud to have Jett and his brother Hunter as AMA members, and the Lawrence family’s story — transitioning from Australia to Europe to the United States in search of achieving Jett and Hunter’s racing dreams — is truly compelling.”
Thomas’ lifelong commitment to the sport of motorcycling made him the perfect candidate for the AMA Dud Perkins Lifetime Achievement Award, which is presented annually to an individual who provides the highest level of service to the AMA in any area of activity.
“He did a lot of really good work and impacted a lot of families,” Thomas’ grandson, Chase, said. “It’s really cool that [the AMA] went back and honored him because he did a lot for the riding in this area.”
Thomas established the West Kentucky Trail Riders AMA club in 1970, thus beginning a long run as a race promoter for several AMA National Enduros and Hare Scrambles. In 1987, Thomas founded the KT Riders AMA Club, which currently promotes the longest running AMA Dual Sport series in the country in the LBL 200, which takes place in the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area in Tennessee.
For his tireless efforts as a promoter, Thomas and his family received the AMA Recreational Riding Organizer of the Year in 2019. Despite his passing on Sept. 29, Thomas’ impact is felt throughout his family as his son, Bob, and his grandsons, Chase and Dustin, have continued his work with KT Riders, now known as Thomas Brothers Promotions.
Beyond the world of promoting, Thomas also raced flat track in the late ’50s and owned a successful motorcycle dealership in Cadiz, Ky. Thomas was also a fixture in his community, helping open several county recycling sites, while serving on boards for the Trigg County Hospital, Trigg County Recreation Center, the Tennessee Valley Advisory and the U.S. Forestry Service Advisory.
About the American Motorcyclist Association
Founded in 1924, the AMA is a not-for-profit member-based association whose mission is to promote the motorcycle lifestyle and protect the future of motorcycling. As the world’s largest motorcycling rights and event sanctioning organization, the AMA advocates for riders’ interests at all levels of government and sanctions thousands of competition and recreational events every year. Besides offering members money-saving discounts on products and services, the AMA also publishes American Motorcyclist, a recently revitalized and monthly full-color magazine (and digital version of same) that covers current events and motorcycle history with brilliant photography and compelling writing. American Motorcyclist is also North America’s largest-circulation magazine. Through the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio, the AMA honors the heroes and heritage of motorcycling. For more information, visit AmericanMotorcyclist.com.
Learn from riding with Josh Hayes (41) at the J4ORCE Fastrack High Performance Camp with Josh Hayes. Photo courtesy Fastrack Riders.
Fastrack 2024 Kick Off with J4orce!
Only Few Spots Still Available for the Season Opener on Jan 13th & 14th at J4ORCE Fastrack High Performance Camp with Josh Hayes. NEXT OPPORTUNITY COULD BE NOT UNTIL FALL 2024!
“It was great how Josh gave each of us his undivided attention the entire day.”
Only 10 seats available per day so sign up fast.
“He pulled me aside and encouraged me to push a little harder during a drill and how to do it, and I was surprised at how well I did, and I basically leveled up just like that.”
The J4ORCE Fastrack High Performance Camp is a unique program developed by four-time AMA Pro Superbike Champion Josh Hayes and designed for Fastrack riders and racers that want to learn and improve their skills to ride safer, faster, smarter. The course includes lectures, one-on-one coaching, and flat-track (dirt) drills tailored to help you leap out of your comfort zone in a safer environment while red-lining the fun meter.
“He answered every question we asked… about how we were riding, and even about what goes on behind the scenes in professional racing. Straight up!”
Topics of discussion and drills include:
• Technique
• Race craft
• Situational awareness
• Adapting and learning new tracks
What to expect:
• Flat-track dirt bikes provided
• Food/lunch and hydration replenishments provided
• Protective riding gear NOT provided. MX gear is preferred.
• Please bring:
o Helmet, boots, gloves (MX or road bike helmet, boots, & gloves OK)
o Long sleeve shirt and pants
o MX knee/shin guard. For those who don’t have MX gear, you can use your road racing equipment (suit, boots, gloves, helmet) but be aware they will get dirty. So an old set may be your best bet.
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A press release is not an article written by Roadracingworld.com staffers. When a post is labeled with the words “press release”, it means that Roadracingworld.com is not responsible for its content and that Roadracingworld.com makes no guarantee that it is accurate. Not all press releases are posted and Roadracingworld.com may reject press releases if the content is too heavy on commercial promotion with little or no news value or if the press release contains obvious errors.
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www.roadracingworld.com
November 11, 2026
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