CONTENTS. Dunlop Download magazine is published for Dunlop Motorcycle Tires by Vreeke & Associates.

Transcription

1 FEBRUARY 2014

2 CONTENTS 4 BEN BOSTROM REMEMBERS TOMMY AQUINO 8 NOTED CUSTOM BIKE BUILDER JESSE ROOKE PARTNERS WITH TUCKER ROCKY/BIKER S CHOICE WORLD OFF-ROAD CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES KICKS OFF 10 DUNLOP DOMINATES AT THE 2013 MINI O S 12 DUNLOP AMERICAN ELITE NOW IN NEW SIZES 14 AMA BANQUET RECOGNIZES TOP AMATEUR RACERS 16 DUNLOP GEOMAX MX32/MX52 LAUNCH AT MILESTONE MX PARK 22 NEXT-GENERATION DUNLOP GEOMAX TIRES: MX32 AND MX52 34 KTM CHOOSES DUNLOP S NEW GEOMAX MX52 TIRES AMA PRO ROAD RACING SEASON PREVIEW 42 A BROC S EYE VIEW: BROC GLOVER S READ ON SX HITS THE HALFWAY MARK SUPERCROSS BIKES OF THE STARS 74 UPCOMING EVENTS ON THE COVER: The new generation of Dunlop tires, the Geomax MX32 and MX52 motocross tires were derived from top-level AMA Supercross and Motocross racing. Dunlop has gone social, so join the conversation on our Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest pages, and check our latest videos on the Dunlop YouTube channel. 2 Dunlop Download magazine is published for Dunlop Motorcycle Tires by Vreeke & Associates. 3

3 BEN BOSTROM REMEMBERS TOMMY AQUINO IT S SO MUCH DARKER WHEN A LIGHT GOES OUT THAN IT WOULD HAVE BEEN IF IT HAD NEVER SHONE. John Steinbeck The above quote seems very fitting and describes so well what Tommy has brought into my life and the lives of those in our racing paddock. and would say, Yes. But my first day with Tommy secured the fact Chuck had found me a lifelong friend and protégé. When I met Tommy for the first time I saw a reflection of myself: a naive, shy kid the world would use as food if he did not toughen up a bit. Chuck Graves had come to me asking if I wanted to help a young kid needing a leathers sponsor. I figured he knew I was soft when it came to kids At the time I did not have the understanding to help others and not expect anything in return. It happened by accident on several occasions, and since, has taught me that to give for the sake of giving, has a life of its own, an elevated one, far greater than any return. 4 5

4 THE DAY AFTER TOMMY DIED, I TOOK A RIDE ON MY BIKE TO CRY ALONE AND TO RIDE AS HIGH UP A MOUNTAIN AS POSSIBLE TO BE CLOSER TO TOMMY. So, for 16-year-old Tommy, lesson one would be to train. Daytona was approaching and getting down to race weight was a new concept for this hamburger-eating kid. It was time Tommy met his new friend, the bicycle. I still laugh at all the rides and bonk sessions we had. Many photos of Tommy putting himself in the box or the pain cave on that suffer device and being so proud of him for finding that place over and over again. Day one had us departing Newbury Park bike shop and riding to Graves Motor Sports in the valley, about three hours on the bicycle, with no real route laid out, a typical Ben ride. This was going to be a long day for a newbie learning to clip-in for the first time on this strange bike. Well, it took us four and a half hours. It was dark when we arrived, and the whole Graves and factory Yamaha teams were waiting on us to do Daytona 200 pit stop tests. I felt horrible. As Yamaha s new rider, this was no way to make a first impression and certainly no way to put Tommy in their good graces as a future rider. In typical Tommy fashion, though, exhausted from the ride, he just wore a smile that said, We were on an epic and did our best to get here. Not one person could argue with the look on his face. Keith McCarty came over, put his hand on my shoulder, leaned in close, and in comforting voice said, Don t worry about it. That just backed up the theory of helping others tenfold. Since that day Tommy has been on a handful of crazy adventures with our small crew. From weeks in Italy with the boys, to Belgium supermoto adventures racing alongside our motocross heroes, Tommy had the ability to make everyone smile in the worst of times. We would always get the biggest laughs at his forgetfulness and ability to laugh off even the worst situation. When Tommy, Chris Clark and I returned home from our Italian bromance, Tommy realized he had left his camera in Italy. Well, now I know what a blessing it was. Our Italian family friends found the camera and sent it back along with an oversized photo book they had made with all the pictures from our adventure. That book makes me laugh and cry at the same time. Being forgetful is not so bad. I think each of Tommy s friends have at least one article of clothing from him he had left at their house. Tommy never lost his shyness and that is what made him so special. It showed on the racetrack, though. Riders would take advantage of it knowing Tommy would not close the door or force a pass that would endanger both of them. He would just settle into the position behind or get shuffled back several spots and accept it. Tommy was a kid with more talent than most, and was probably starting from pole position, but he had not been born with the selfishness racing requires. I would preach to him the importance of aggressiveness and staying quiet at the track before races, quite hypocritical of me really. So, there would be Tommy, always smiling, camera in one hand, iphone in the other, socializing and laughing around the paddock. This is how most of us remember him and why that Steinbeck quote is so fitting. Parent training usually starts with a pet. Gain some experience before you tackle the ultimate attainment in life, parenting. I have to tell you I was under the impression I had learned enough from my two boys, Jack and Oliver, and now I was ready to be the teacher. Every day my dogs watched me closely, studying my mood and never judging me for my actions, just there to share time and make the house a happy environment. I did not have a human son, I never even noticed I had taken to Tommy as my son, just trying to teach him some of the lessons I have learned in life, and didn t want to see him make the mistakes I had made. It hit me this year I may have been trying to teach him, but I was being taught just as much. It has bettered me as a person and has taught me the importance of keeping a young mind. Never take failure or tragedy in a negative way. It is through those moments we become better people. The loss of Tommy has hit me harder than anyone I have ever lost to death. Maybe it is because he looked up to me so much, or maybe because we were so similar. I realize now he was my teacher just as much as I was his. The parenting definition should include: We are just here as a guide and lucky enough to have these new people in our life to share moments with. Tommy gave me a small fir tree to plant in my yard the last time he stayed over, just two weeks before his death. I thought this was a funny gift because he had called me over Christmas, embarrassed that a mutual friend had run into him while he was working at the Christmas tree lot. I was proud of him and I reminded him I was a janitor, from 10 p.m. to 3 a.m. during the week in high school. A few days later Jeremy McGrath backed it up with a comment on Instagram, reminding me of when I worked on a Christmas tree lot. Of all gifts to give before you go, a fir tree, the symbol of immortality and remembrance. Every year I change backpacks and switch over only a few items that are important: Advil, international drivers license, cell phone charger, etc. Then I add a Mechanix Wear glove that is special to me, and Tommy s bracelet that he had given me during his rookie season, a number 6. I have always understood the Mechanix Wear glove and keep it as a reminder of how thankful I am to have Nikki in my life. The Tommy bracelet has always been a mystery to me, because I do not keep any trinkets from other friends. Now I understand that one too. The day after Tommy died, I took a ride on my bike to cry alone and to ride as high up a mountain as possible to be closer to Tommy. As I rode, the great moments we had shared flooded my mind. I lost track of time, and the most beautiful sunset I had ever seen set in on Vegas. I marveled at this beauty and said goodbye to the happiest guy the paddock has ever known. Pulling into my garage, I stopped my Garmin and looked down at the screen. Yep, 31 miles. So strange. Plugged in the Garmin to Strava to log in my farewell ride with Magnum Rogers and noticed the same thing had happened to my friend Sean who had titled his ride 31 for #31. Some things in life are inexplicable and require no explanation. My last text from Tommy read, I m off to England on the 11th for 10 days to launch the team, then I want to come out and hit some Vegas adventures before I ship off for good. My reply was, Lets hope you re not shipping off for good. Typical Tommy in his reply, Yeah, I guess so, LOL, got an Instagram pic coming your way. It was his last Insta pic. A big hamburger he had just eaten, with the m sorry. So, I scrolled through his pictures until I arrived at his very first post from a few years ago: a picture of Tommy and my shadow pointing up to the heavens with the simple words, "My photographer s shadow is pointing to where it s at. Miss and love you brother! #BesideYouInTime Your Photographer 6 7

5 NOTED CUSTOM BIKE BUILDER JESSE ROOKE PARTNERS WITH TUCKER ROCKY/BIKER S CHOICE Jesse Rooke is a powerhouse custom bike builder, and Tucker Rocky/Biker s Choice are powerhouse parts distributors. These two have linked up for an exclusive partnership which will see Rooke develop a line of custom and performance parts, both for Harley-Davidson and metric cruisers. Rooke, who is also sponsored by Dunlop, is a world-famous custom builder who got his start in 2002 and went on to build groundbreaking bikes for some of the biggest names in Hollywood. Rooke says, Having worked with some of the greatest names in the industry, I am truly excited about the prospect of partnering with Tucker Rocky/Biker s Choice so that we can offer Rooke-branded products to a much broader segment of the motorcycling world. Biker s Choice Director Charlie Hadayia says, I m really excited about the opportunity to collaborate and work with Jesse to bring the Rooke brand to the powersports market. And Tucker Rocky/Biker s Choice President Dan Courtney adds, We couldn t be happier to have Jesse Rooke on board. His distinctive, innovative style will be a major competitive differentiator for Biker s Choice WORLD OFF-ROAD CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES KICKS OFF The 2014 season of the World Off-Road Championship Series launched off to an exciting start with a fun surprise: Privateer Gary Sutherlin took home the Pro Motorcycle win aboard his NTS Inc. KTM. More specifically, the 2014 KTM 450 SX-F he rode was on loan from KTM and a project bike at Dirt Rider magazine. Obviously, this is one project bike that was quite successful. In addition, defending 2013 WORCS champion Robby Bell finished the Pro race in third place aboard his Precision Concepts Kawasaki despite mechanical issues. The race was held at Honolulu Hills in Taft, California, and it featured yet another surprise: unseasonably warm 80-plusdegree temperatures. The weather was so warm and dry the water trucks had to work overtime to keep the dust down. On the plus side, the mild weather brought out more than 1000 racers in all classes, motorcycles and ATVs. Sutherlin got off to a great start in the two-hour Pro race by running near the front, but he experienced some arm pump that slowed his pace. He later explained, I had a good first lap and felt really good, but then I pumped up really bad. The first half of the race, I was tight and couldn t hit my lines and just not riding very good. Finally, after I pitted, I calmed down and everything started to come together. Sutherlin charged from fourth place to the lead in the final four laps to take the win. I am just happy to be up here on the box. Times are tough and to be up here with a win and make some money is great, and hopefully we can just keep building off of this for the rest of the year. 8 9

6 AUSTINFORKNER CHASESEXTON DUNLOP DOMINATES AT THE 2013 MINI O S Thousands of racers from all over the country converged at Gatorback Cycle Park near Gainsville, Florida during Thanksgiving week for the 42nd annual Mini O s, and Dunlop riders dominated the competition in both the Supercross and Motocross events. Throughout the weeklong event, Dunlop riders claimed a total of 69 championships, 18 of which were earned by Dunlop-sponsored Team Dunlop riders. Team Dunlop riders had an amazing week. Team Green Kawasaki s Austin Forkner clinched the Supermini 1 and Supermini 2 championships in both the Supercross and Motocross events. Chase Sexton likewise had a very successful week, also wrapping up four championships in Mini Sr (12-15) and 85 (12-13). Other Team Dunlop members to leave as champions include Garrett Marchbanks, Jett Reynolds and Hannah Hodges, each with three championships and Jordan Bailey with one title. Each year the rider in the Pro/A class division that accumulates the highest number of points combined in both Supercross and Motocross is presented the Dunlop Silver Tire Award. This year it was AMSOIL/Factory Connection Honda s RJ Hampshire who earned the coveted award after taking home four titles in the heavily contested A classes, winning both the 250A and 450 Pro Sport finals. DUNLOP CONGRATULATES ALL RIDERS ON THEIR ACHIEVEMENTS AT THE 2013 MINI O S. TEAM DUNLOP SX CHAMPS 85 (9-11) Limited - Garrett Marchbanks Supermini 1 (12-15) - Austin Forkner Girls (12-16) - Hannah Hodges Women (14+) - Hannah Hodges 85 (9-11) - Garrett Marchbanks 65 (7-9) - Jett Reynolds Supermini 2 (13-16) - Austin Forkner Mini Sr. (12-15) - Chase Sexton 51 (4-8) Limited - Jett Reynolds 85 (12-13) - Chase Sexton TEAM DUNLOP MX CHAMPS 85 (9-11) Limited - Garrett Marchbanks Supermini 1 (12-15) - Austin Forkner Girls (12-15) - Hannah Hodges Mini Sr. (12-15) Limited - Jordan Bailey Supermini 2 (13-16) - Austin Forkner Mini Sr. (12-15) - Chase Sexton 51 (4-8) Limited - Jett Reynolds 85 (12-13) - Chase Sexton RJHAMPSHIRE 10 11

7 DUNLOP AMERICAN ELITE NOW IN NEW SIZES Harley-Davidson riders have come to know and trust Dunlop American Elite tires, especially the new second-generation American Elites that offers more mileage along with great grip and handling. Now there s even better news: With the addition of 11 new choices in various sizes and options in sidewall treatment, there are now more selections than ever for a grand total of 21 in the lineup of new-generation American Elite tires. THE NEW SIZES AND SIDEWALL TREATMENTS INCLUDE: FRONT TIRES MT90B16 available in wide whitewall, narrow white and black 100/90-19 available in black REAR TIRES MT90B16 available in wide whitewall, narrow white and black MU85B16 available in wide whitewall, narrow white and black 150/80B16 available in black As always, these new second-generation American Elite tires incorporate advanced design elements and MT Multi-Tread construction for longer tread life as well as more grip and better handling performance. Our Multi-Tread rear tires incorporate a long-wearing compound in the center of the tire tread and a lateral-grip compound on each shoulder to enhance cornering performance and feel. These results were proven in controlled comparison tests that demonstrate the second-generation American Elite tires really do yield allaround improvements that translate to superior performance in real-world riding conditions. All this from the only aftermarket tire line for Harley-Davidson motorcycles that is designed, tested and manufactured in the USA. In short, with the addition of these new sizes in the lineup, now more riders than ever can enjoy better mileage plus great grip and handling with the Dunlop American Elite

8 AMA BANQUET RECOGNIZES TOP AMATEUR RACERS The country s best amateur motorcycle and all-terrainvehicle racers from the track, trail, desert and everywhere in between were honored at the American Motorcyclist Association Championship Banquet in Columbus, Ohio. More than 700 competitors and fans attended the banquet, which celebrated the 2013 racing season and announced the recipients of several special awards, national championship trophies, placement medals and AMA number 1 plates to competitors in more than a dozen AMAsanctioned disciplines. The AMA s highest competitive honors, the AMA Athlete of the Year Awards, recognize a rider from each of the two categories of national championship competition: AMA National Championship Series and AMA Grand Championships. titles in the cc DTX class and the 450cc Modified class at the AMA Dirt Track Grand Championships in Springfield, Illinois. Hannah Hodges was named AMA Female Rider of the Year. A member of Team Dunlop, Hodges hails from DeLand, Florida. She earned the Girls Sr. (12-16) class crown at the AMA Amateur National Motocross Championship. This award is really cool, Hodges said. AMA is really big, with so many different disciplines. There s a bunch of competition, so to be a part of it and win this award is really cool. I m just happy to be a part of it. I want to be the first girl to qualify for a men s AMA Pro Motocross National some day. The late Kurt Caselli, the overall champion of the 2013 AMA FMF/GPR Hare & Hound National Championship Series, won the AMA National Championship Series Athlete of the Year Award. The 2013 title was Caselli s third overall AMA Hare & Hound National Championship. Caselli, who was poised to transition to world motorcycle rally racing in 2014, passed away while competing in the Baja 1000 in November Jeffery Lowery won the 2013 AMA Grand Championship Athlete of the Year Award. Earlier in 2013, Lowery, from Newark, Ohio, won the AMA Dirt Track Horizon Award for 2013, winning AMA national Another Team D rider, Aiden Tijero, was named the AMA Racing Youth Rider of the Year. The Ripon, California, resident was the 65cc (10-11) Limited class champion at the 2013 AMA Red Bull Amateur National Motocross Championships. Tijero also was the 65cc World Champion at the 2013 FIM Jr. Motocross World Championships at Jinin, Czech Republic, and his victory was instrumental in helping lead Team USA to the overall gold. This is one of the biggest awards you could get, Tijero said. I can look back at it when I m older, like my dad s age, and I can say, I remember this so much like it was yesterday, and that s how I want it to be. I want to remember everything about this. I love this sport. It s my favorite sport. 14 I WANT TO BE THE FIRST GIRL TO QUALIFY FOR A MEN S AMA PRO MOTOCROSS NATIONAL SOME DAY. TEAM DUNLOP RIDER HANNAH HODGES, AMA FEMALE RIDER OF THE YEAR AMA / JEFFREY GUCIARDO 15

9 DUNLOP GEOMAX MX32/MX52 LAUNCH AT MILESTONE MX PARK 16 17

10 On February 10, 2014, Dunlop held its press launch for the all-new Geomax MX32 and MX52 motocross tires at Milestone MX Park in Riverside, California. The motorcycle media gathered under a foggy morning sky for coffee and a quick briefing by Dunlop Research and Development staff, who explained the process of creating a new production tire from a race tire that won 62 Pro Supercross and Motocross races in By 10 a.m., riders were suited up and made their way onto two test tracks, one more hard-packed for the MX52, and one more loamy for the MX32. The In-N-Out truck came at lunchtime and treated everyone to the piping hot burgers of their choice until they d refueled and were ready to get back out on the track. Attendees came from a number of media outlets and testing backgrounds. Media outlets represented included Dirt Rider, MotorcycleUSA, Motorcycle.com, Vital MX, Dirt Bike magazine, Parts magazine, Racer X, Transworld Motocross, Motocross Action magazine, VurbMoto, and RideApart. Miguel Duhamel the winningest rider in AMA history turned not-so-casual motocross rider was also in attendance to share his opinions and help put the tires through their paces. The sun came out midday and provided the chance to ride in both dry and packed surfaces, as well as mud and slime as the tracks needed to be wet down. This gave the riders the opportunity to experience the differences between the strengths of the MX32 and MX52, while it also provided evidence of how these two tires could cover the terrain range of the previous three tires. With a variety of conditions including hard-pack to soft, wet and slick to dry and slick all in one place, the media had a unique opportunity to evaluate Dunlop s newest motocross tires. CLICK HERE TO SEE WHAT SOME OF THE MEDIA HAD TO SAY ABOUT THE TIRES 18 19

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12 NEXT-GENERATION DUNLOP GEOMAX TIRES: MX32 AND MX52 Using input from top AMA Pro Supercross and Motocross racers throughout the 2011, 2012 and 2013 racing seasons, Dunlop has developed the all-new Geomax MX32 and MX52 motocross tires. These new Geomax models began life as top Pro tires and have now been developed into tires Dunlop can offer to the racing and riding public. The MX32 covers soft-to-intermediate terrain while the MX52 excels in intermediate-to-hard terrain conditions. These two tires replace the MX31, MX51 and MX71 in Dunlop s Geomax lineup, yet they cover a significantly greater range of terrain types than the three tires covered before thanks to revolutionary new technology

13 AMA SX & 450 RYAN MX CHAMPION VILLOPOTO AMA SX KEN LITES WEST CHAMPION ROCZEN AMA 250 ELI MX CHAMPION TOMAC AMA SX LITES WIL EAST CHAMPION HAHN PROVEN IN AMA PRO RACING The advantages of the MX32 and MX52 were proven in the demanding environment of AMA Pro competition. In 2013, prototypes of the production MX32 and MX52 front and rear tires were used an astounding 62 times by the overall race winners in AMA Pro Supercross and Motocross events. These race winners include 2013 champions Ryan Villopoto, Wil Hahn, Eli Tomac, Ken Roczen and Jessica Patterson, plus many more riders. Extend that count to the top-three race finishers and the MX32 and MX52 amassed 187 podium appearances in AMA Pro Supercross and Motocross competition in 2013, while also notching holeshots with 55 fitments throughout the year truly amazing results for tires now available to the public

14 GEOMAX TIRE TECHNOLOGY GEOMAX MX32 AND MX52 KEY FEATURES INCLUDE: Derived from top-level AMA Supercross and Motocross racing New tread-block-within-a-block knobs offer more progressive cornering action Enhanced handling and knob durability via more flex, and less knob tearing through recess-carcass design Superior bump absorption through new damping-control sidewall rubber compound and recess-carcass design Directional front tire design provides enhanced grip and steering feel Superior grip in a wider variety of terrain The front and rear MX32 and MX52 tires share new Dunlop technology, as follows: MX32 AND MX52 REAR TIRE TECHNOLOGY Progressive Cornering Block Technology (PCBT) A block-within-a-block design that offers more progressive cornering action and aids in slide control. Enhanced Carcass Tension Control System (CTCS) - Rear Tire Tuned carcass flexibility from recesses placed strategically along the tire carcass to help smooth ride characteristics and allow the bike to follow a line more accurately. Controlled-rebound rubber element in the sidewall This construction helps to damp out bounce, acting as a suspension component within the tire, so the tire can better follow the track surface. Elimination of tie-bar design Because the MX32 is intended for use in soft-to-intermediate terrain, the tie bars have been eliminated to reduce the resistance toward bending within blocks. This enhances contact feel and performance in sandy and muddy conditions. EXCLUSIVE MX52 REAR TIRE TECHNOLOGY Staggered distribution of center blocks Spreads the load on the tire and helps with impact damping and stability, especially in whoops and hard-pack conditions. EXCLUSIVE MX32 FRONT TIRE TECHNOLOGY Staggered Middle Blocks Alternating mid-shoulder knobs in the MX32 have been angled differently and are sized differently to add side grip and promote light, responsive steering while being less prone to grabbing in ruts. MX32 AND MX52 FRONT TIRE TECHNOLOGY New directional tread pattern Offers great traction and steering feel for a wide range of riders who have differing riding styles. Elimination of tie-bar design The tie bars have been eliminated to reduce the resistance toward bending within blocks. This enhances steering feel and promotes stability in muddy conditions. Enhanced Carcass Tension Control System (CTCS) Tuned carcass flexibility offers enhanced feel and steering accuracy. Although they share a lot of common technology, some elements are unique to each tire in order to optimize their performance in specific terrain applications, as follows: EXCLUSIVE MX32 REAR TIRE TECHNOLOGY Multiple block distribution By varying the pitches and angles of the tire blocks, fewer blocks are needed in the center area, and this improves contact feel. Chiseled shoulder block Derived from the MX31, this chiseled block shape penetrates the surface to improve side grip. Knob placement Newly improved knob placement and angling reduces knob stress. EXCLUSIVE MX52 FRONT TIRE TECHNOLOGY Unique tread block distribution Knob design, pattern and knob construction are optimized to work in one direction, which provides advantages in feel and traction

15 PROGRESSIVE CORNERING BLOCK TECHNOLOGY In both the MX32 and MX52 rear tires, Progressive Cornering Block (PCB) incorporates a new block-within-a-block configuration on the two flanks of the tire a design proven to deliver more progressive cornering action and aid in slide control. The key to this new knob design/technology focuses on adding overall height to each knob at the center of this new multi-block configuration specifically, with a taller, smaller, inner knob. The additional biting edges and the increased surface area they provide effectively increase the tire s footprint and its ability to spread driving loads more evenly across the knob for additional traction. With block-within-a-block design, each knob damps out a portion of the force characteristics put into the tire while riding over rough terrain. The floating traits of the knobs improve stability because more of these forces are being damped out within the tire and less of these forces are transferred to the suspension and chassis. Also, when running the bike at different lean angles, the variable height of the multi-block knobs spreads the load more evenly over the surface of the knob block, especially at the edges, to produce added bite. The block-within-a-block configuration also helps improve slide control

16 TIRE-SPECIFIC BLOCK PATTERN The MX52 rear tire features rows of center blocks with a slight stagger. This offset spreads the load on the tire and helps with impact damping and stability, especially in whoops and hard-pack conditions. Now, the tread pattern has the ability to flex for compliance over various surfaces, which allows the tire to deal more effectively within a wider range of terrain. To excel in soft-terrain application, the MX32 rear features a multiple-block distribution pattern, wherein the pitches and angles of the tire blocks are varied to promote traction, while using fewer blocks, which also improves contact feel, while still maintaining excellent traction. Because the MX32 is intended for use in soft-to-intermediate terrain, the tie bars Dunlop incorporates on other tires have been eliminated to reduce bending resistance within the tire blocks to improve contact feel and promote stability

17 FRONT TIRE DESIGN The front MX32 and MX52 feature new directional tread patterns in both fronts that incorporate a series of unique block designs for optimal performance. The main objective is to provide great traction along with optimal steering feel for a wide range of riders who have differing riding styles. A directional front tire can accomplish this by focusing on a more idealized knob pattern, knob distribution, knob construction and knob shape a total package that produces heightened feel for the rider. With optimized block distribution, new block designs and carcass innovations, the all-new Geomax MX32 and MX52 offer weekend riders the kind of performance top AMA Pros used to win races and championships in Riding on the MX32 and MX52 is like having a factory advantage in your corner. CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE GEOMAX VIDEO 32 33

18 KTM CHOOSES DUNLOP S NEW GEOMAX MX52 TIRES For even the most jaded of journalists, press introductions focusing on the release of new factory bikes always provide at least a small thrill, and sometimes a surprise to boot. Sure enough, surprises and thrills were exactly the order of the day when KTM unveiled its SX-F Factory Edition motocross bike not long ago. All journalists in attendance were pleasantly surprised to learn this dynamic, new, madefor-competition machine also happened to serve as the vehicle for introducing the brand-new Dunlop Geomax MX52 tires that serve as original equipment on all SX-F Factory Edition bikes. This exclusive fitment on KTM s premier racing machine comes through well-earned reason: The advantages of the Dunlop MX52 were thoroughly proven in AMA competition by the factory KTM team. In 2013, pre-production versions of the ground-breaking MX52 tires scored numerous race wins, including Supercross victories in the 450 class by KTM riders Ryan Dungey, and the 250 class by Ken Roczen and Marvin Musquin. Thanks to R&D input from the KTM squad, as well as many other top AMA Pro Supercross and Motocross racers throughout the 2011, 2012 and 2013 racing seasons, Dunlop developed the all-new Geomax MX52 for use on intermediate-to-hard terrain, as well as the soft-tointermediate terrain MX32. More specifically, the MX52 amassed nearly four dozen podium finishes in AMA Pro Supercross and Motocross competition in 2013, while also notching multiple holeshots throughout the year. Although the new MX52 began life as a racing tire, it has now been developed into a tire that Dunlop can offer to the public. The result: motocross tires unlike anything Dunlop has ever made. Dunlop-sponsored racers are now competing on Geomax MX52 and MX32 tires in the 2014 AMA Supercross series, and both new Geomax models will be available to the public beginning March

19 2014 AMA PRO ROAD RACING SEASON PREVIEW A lot has changed in AMA Pro Road Racing during the off-season. Some familiar faces have moved on to racing series in other parts of the world, quite a few riders have moved up in the AMA Pro ranks, and there is also an influx of new riders ready to put their racing talents on display in the U.S will also see Dunlop return as the official tire of AMA roadracing, the exclusive tire provider for all classes of AMA competition. The SuperBike class will once again compete on slicks produced in Dunlop s Buffalo, New York manufacturing plant, while all other classes will compete on Dunlop s D.O.T. treaded D211 GP-A racing tires also manufactured in Buffalo. The same tires that the AMA pros race on are also available to club racers across the country. In AMA Pro SuperBike, three-time champion Josh Hayes is back with a vengeance. After seeing his Monster Energy/Graves/Yamaha teammate Josh Herrin take the title in 2013, Hayes will be a man on a mission in 2014 as he tries for his fourth SuperBike title

20 IN AMA PRO SUPERBIKE, THREE-TIME CHAMPION JOSH HAYES IS BACK WITH A VENGEANCE. Like last year, the biggest challenger to the crown will most likely come from right within Hayes own Monster Energy/ Graves/Yamaha team. Only instead of Josh Herrin, this year s contender will be SuperBike rookie and 2013 AMA Pro Daytona SportBike Champion Cameron Beaubier. For Beaubier, it ll be his first foray into racing big bikes, as the Northern Californian has spent his career thus far racing lightweight and middleweight machinery. Time will tell how Beaubier will acclimate to the heavier and much more powerful YZF-R1 SuperBike. Like Herrin before him, Beaubier will have his hands full, and he will undoubtedly have to step up his fitness program like Herrin did last year in order to come to grips literally with racing a SuperBike. Look for the master, Hayes, and his young apprentice, Beaubier, at the front of the pack in Also sure to be contenders for the crown in AMA Pro SuperBike this year is another set of teammates, but on a different team. For 2014, Yoshimura Suzuki will field Martin Cardenas and Roger Hayden, along with Chris Clark. Last year, Suzuki riders Cardenas and Hayden arose as the most consistent contenders to the Josh Hayes/Josh Herrin Yamaha juggernaut. They competed on the same brand of motorcycle, but for two different teams. But now they are teamed up, it ll be interesting to see how the two riders push each other, and also work together, against Hayes, Beaubier, and the rest of the SuperBike field. Speaking of the rest of the SuperBike field, veteran rider Larry Pegram has climbed off his Yamaha R1 SuperBike and will race an EBR 1190RS SuperBike for Erik Buell Racing, as well as Pegram s longtime team sponsor Foremost Insurance. Chris Fillmore, who was last seen valiantly pushing his out-ofgas KTM RC8R across the finish line for a hard-earned seventh-place result in the final AMA Pro SuperBike race of the 2013 season last September at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca, will be back with the Orange Brigade and KTM/HMC Racing. This season could be Fillmore s best chance yet to land in the SuperBike winner s circle. Besides SuperBike rookie Beaubier, another newcomer to the premier class of AMA Pro Racing is former AMA Pro SuperSport competitor Stefano Mesa. For 2013, the diminutive Colombian will be aboard a Kawasaki ZX-10R SuperBike as he races for Florida-based DMS Racing. With 2013 champion Beaubier moving up to SuperBike, the odds-on favorite to win the AMA Pro Daytona SportBike title in 2014 has to be RoadRace Factory rider Jake Gagne, who finished second in the championship last season aboard his Yamaha R6, and managed to wrestle one race win away from the dominant Beaubier

21 Like last year, it won t be easy for Gagne, as he ll face tough competition from the Yamaha Extended Service/Monster Energy/Graves/Yamaha team, which includes incumbent Garrett Gerloff on his Yamaha R6, and new teammate J.D. Beach. Both Gerloff and Beach had excellent results in 2013, and they ll be trying hard to keep the DSB championship within the Y.E.S./Monster Energy/Graves/Yamaha camp for at least another year. Meen Motorsports rider Jake Lewis also had a successful 2013 campaign, winning rookie of the year honors, and notching seven top-five finishes. He s back aboard his Motorsport.com/Meen/Yamaha R6 for 2014 and, with a year under his belt in the ultra-competitive DSB class, look for Lewis up front and also in contention for the championship. Lewis will be joined this season by new teammate and rookie DSB competitor Tucker Lancaster. Dane Westby, who rode a Honda CBR600RR last year with somewhat mixed results, returns to his Yamaha roots and will compete in DSB aboard his Yamalube/Westby Racing R6. The Wolverine is highly motivated this season and anxious to regain his form. Facing the Yamaha R6 onslaught in DSB is a formidable phalanx of Triumph Daytona 675R riders. Among the group are veteran AMA Pro riders Jason DiSalvo and Danny Eslick. Eslick, who will race for Riders Discount Triumph, makes his return to the Daytona SportBike class after a couple of seasons in SuperBike. Also racing for Triumph in 2014, once again are Elena Myers and Kenny Riedmann. One of last year s biggest SuperSport sensations, Joe Roberts, has moved up to the Daytona SportBike class, and he ll be aboard an M4 Honda CBR600RR for the 2014 DSB season. Unlike last year, when Roberts split time between competing in the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup and select AMA Pro SuperSport events (where he won all five SuperSport races in which he competed), in 2014 the California phenom will be all-in for a full season of DSB competition. Also competing aboard a Honda CBR600RR in DSB is former AMA Pro SuperBike race winner and Daytona 200 polesitter, Jake Zemke, who will be racing for GEICO Honda. In the always-exciting AMA Pro SuperSport class, where wily veterans mix it up with motorcycle road-racing s youngest professionals, 2014 promises to continue delivering exciting competition. Last year s SuperSport East Champion Corey Alexander will be back aboard a Celtic Racing Suzuki GSX- R600, as he competes for a national championship in the class. Meanwhile, well-known AMA Pro rider Dustin Dominguez will again race in SuperSport. Other SuperSport riders include Motorcycle-Superstore.com s Ryan Haddock aboard a Yamaha R6, as well as Jason Aguilar, who is making his AMA Pro SuperSport debut on a Yamaha R6 for Tuned Racing

22 A BROC S EYE VIEW BROC GLOVER S READ ON 2014 Every year, the New Year s Eve ball has barely stopped dropping before the new Supercross season kicks off. Despite the hectic times, we grabbed Broc Glover, Dunlop Senior Manager, Motorcycle Off-Road Racing, to get a quick read on the 2014 Supercross/Motocross racing season

23 I AM VERY PROUD TO BE A PART OF DUNLOP BECAUSE WE ARE THE ONLY TIRE COMPANY THAT HAS BEEN INVOLVED WITH SUPERCROSS FOR EVERY ONE OF THOSE 40 YEARS NO OTHER TIRE COMPANY CAN SAY THAT. Question: The 2014 Supercross season is already running full speed ahead; what thoughts do you have on the new racing season so far? Broc Glover: I d like to give props to everyone past and present involved with Supercross racing marks 40 years of Supercross competition and it seems like it s more popular than ever. I am very proud to be a part of Dunlop because we are the only tire company that has been involved with Supercross for every one of those 40 years no other tire company can say that. And that achievement means we have the backing of 40 years of continuous development work to improve our state-of-the-art in motocross racing tires. That long-term commitment pays off as an advantage for the average weekend rider who uses our tires, as well as for the very top pro riders in the world. You can see proof of that advantage every Supercross race weekend. The overwhelming majority of pro racers are choosing Dunlop over all other tire brands. It is quite typical for around 90 percent or more of all pro riders who qualify for the main event to be on Dunlops. And in many 250 main events you ll see that all 22 riders choose Dunlops. To me that speaks volumes about the quality and performance of our tires. helped is with the introduction of our new MX52 and MX32 tires. These two tires cover a much wider range of terrain and conditions than our first generation of Geomax tires, so it allows us to cover an equal range that previously took three patterns. Q: Even though the racing has begun, that doesn t mean the R&D work stops, does it? BG: Far from it! We are constantly working on developing new tires, and one big advantage Dunlop enjoys is having access to nearly all the best AMA Supercross and Motocross teams, so we can gather development input from their top riders as we work on producing new tires. Q: How do you go about gathering this R&D information and putting it to use for the riders? BG: Sometimes riders are looking for something specific in a tire s characteristics, and sometimes we are trying to drive development in one direction or another, so we ll work up batches of various development tires and riders will test these tires. We ll then look for perhaps the top two or three choices to emerge among these riders, and then produce more of those tires for additional riders to test. Q: You ve got to be ready to race as soon as the new calendar turns over. How do you prepare the assortment of different tires and the right quantities to get into production long before the season starts? BG: Well, our preparation for a new season actually starts many months prior to the opening round at Anaheim. In fact, we are usually testing our first development specs for Supercross during the previous summer and go into full-court press around October and November. With the addition of the Monster Cup race we can also use that event to see where we stand in actual race conditions. We also know the different venues, the various soil types at each location, what kind of weather we might encounter, whether a stadium is open or covered all that and more goes into the mix. Based on that history and data, plus our vast experience, we can prepare the tires that will likely be used, plus a number of alternatives should conditions require a change. Another thing that has Q: What happens if enough riders like the new race tire more than the existing race tire? BG: We produce them and get them into action! That s exactly what happened with the Geomax MX32 and the development process in A number of riders got on the prototype MX32 at the Daytona Supercross, found huge success with it and stayed on it for the rest of the year. With just a couple exceptions at specialized-terrain outdoor tracks, many of these riders rode on this MX32 tire all through the end of the AMA Motocross National season because the MX32 is so versatile and works far beyond the originally intended softterrain target. So this tire, which was a development-spec tire only about 12 months ago, is now a production tire available to the general public. That s an amazingly rapid development process, to have the MX32 go from the pro-racing development stages to store shelves in such a short time, but, more importantly, it s really an outstanding tire

24 Q: We understand racing is about getting around the track fastest, but what kinds of feedback do the best riders in the world supply to you regarding the testing of new tires, subjective views as well as objective by the stopwatch? BG: Some riders are very vocal and analytical, while others maybe don t say much at all. For instance, in Supercross we may watch how they re getting through the whoops, how they re tracking through corners, what kind of traction they re finding at the start line, and much more. Remember that the tires are an integral part of the suspension system and are the only things in contact with the ground. Doing things like altering air pressure or the knob pattern can completely change the way the bike handles. That means the first thing the riders notice is usually the tires, and they re very tuned in to how they re working. And there are so many elements we can alter in the tire s performance and feel: the knob size, shape and their distribution, the rubber compounds, carcass construction and so on. For example, in the new Geomax tires we use a new rubber compound in the sidewalls with higher damping properties to increase compliance and cut down on bounce. Q: In addition, different racers have different riding styles that affect the kinds of tire characteristics they prefer, right? BG: Absolutely! Some guys ride more towards the front end of the bike and load the front wheel, so they re very sensitive to the way the front tire works. Other guys will use the throttle and rear brake to work the rear end, and they ll rarely change their choice of front tire because it s not as important to them. So it s not easy sorting this all out. Rider size, weight and preferences, along with variable suspension adjustments, brand of bike, chassis geometry, power characteristics and so much more all of this goes into the mix when a racer searches for a winning combination. Q: Dunlop has established longstanding working relationships with riders that help greatly with the R&D process. Does the fact that you are a multi-time championship-winning racer also help with rider communication in this process? BG: I am sure it does to some extent, but we have a great team of people at Dunlop with so many years of experience. Brian Fleck, for instance, has been at Dunlop for 25 years and has worked with so many great champion riders, such as Jeremy McGrath and Ricky Carmichael. He has experienced a lot. In addition to my racing success, I am entering my 14th different season with Dunlop, so have been at Dunlop for nearly as long as I raced professionally, so in some ways I guess you can say I ve been there, seen that, and in many cases, done that, which are all part of the equation for success. In many cases, I can understand what the riders are describing and experiencing with regard to the tire s performance. Racers are not tire engineers, and tire engineers are not racers. So I try to work as a translator, if you will, and help bridge that communication. There is an art to the science of making great tires, and small nuances can sometimes count for a lot. Also, I sometimes have to add a dose of psychology in there, as I talk to a rider who might be frustrated from the last weekend s race or might be struggling on that particular day. So this can all be very complicated and require a lot of work, but as I look back over all that our team is accomplishing at Dunlop, it s very rewarding, too

25 SX HITS THE HALFWAY MARK 48 49

26 JAMESSTEWART THE 2014 MONSTER ENERGY AMA SUPERCROSS, AN FIM WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP RECENTLY HIT THE HALF-WAY POINT, AND THIS YEAR S SERIES HAS WITNESSED ONE OF THE MOST COMPETITIVE FIELDS IN AGES. Dunlop-supported riders have proven superior all season by sweeping the podium at every round except one in both the 450 and 250 classes. With seven of 17 rounds concluded, it is three-time Supercross champion Ryan Villopoto who leads the points chase in the 450 class over rookie Ken Roczen in second and James Stewart in third. In the Western Regional 250SX class, it is Rockstar Energy Racing s Jason Anderson who has edged out the competition and has the points lead heading into the mid-season break. In a deeply talented East 250SX class, Adam Cianciarulo one of the original members of the Team Dunlop amateur program came out swinging at the season opener, taking his career-first win. THE 450 CHASE In dramatic fashion, 450-class rookie Ken Roczen won the opening round at Anaheim s Angel Stadium aboard his Dunlop-sponsored SXF450. Following a heated battle, Roczen was joined on the podium by KTM teammate Ryan Dungey in second. Rounding out the podium in third was Discount Tire/ TwoTwo Motorsports Chad Reed, who made a spectacular return to form. Reed s podium portended bigger things to come from the 32-year-old veteran. At Chase Field in Phoenix, Arizona for round two, Villopoto passed eight riders en route to his first victory of the season. Dungey finished third, giving him back-to-back podiums. At the series second stop in Southern California, Reed became the third different rider in as many races to win. It marked his first victory since January 21, 2012, and the 42nd of his illustrious career. Yoshimura Suzuki s James Stewart claimed his first podium appearance of the season with CHADREED 50 51

27 RYANVILLOPOTO 52 53

28 KENROCZEN second, and Roczen grabbed third to reclaim the point s lead. For round four in Oakland, California, Villopoto lead wire-towire, claiming his second win of the year and becoming the first repeat winner of the season. Stewart grabbed second, followed by Reed in third. Round five marked the third and final stop inside Angel stadium and Reed dominated, leading all 20 laps to capture his second win of the season. Roczen asserted himself into second, while Villopoto ultimately settled into the final podium spot. At round six it was Stewart who claimed the top spot at Qualcomm stadium for the first-ever Military Appreciation race. It was the 46th career victory for Stewart and his first win since Atlanta last season. Villopoto finished second, with Roczen third. AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, hosted round seven of the series, and Stewart scored his second straight win. Dungey was second, and Team Honda Muscle Milk s Justin Barcia claimed his first podium of the season with third. Villopoto s fourth-place finish kept him in the championship lead over Roczen, with Stewart moving to third in the title chase. Reed, who suffered injuries on the final lap of the San Diego race, attempted to race in Texas, but ultimately pulled out, falling from third to sixth in the championship. 250 SX WEST This year the Western Regional 250SX class has showcased intense battles from start to finish, with four different winners in six rounds. Jason Anderson piloted his Dunlop-equipped KTM SX250F to three victories this season, all of which were claimed by passes made on the last lap. At the first round, Troy Lee Designs/ Lucas Oil/ Honda s Cole Seely lead nearly the entire 15-lap main event until making a slight mistake on the final lap, which allowed Anderson to take the win. At round two, it was déjà vu for Seely, who was poised for the win once again, but made a small mistake on the final lap and allowed Anderson to claim his second win of the season. After finishing second at the first two rounds, Seely finally won his first race of the year at the series second stop in Anaheim. Anderson was docked two positions for jumping on a cross flag, ultimately landing him in fourth. In Oakland it was Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki s Dean Wilson who looked to be the third winner of the series, but after some mechanical issues on the final lap, Anderson was RYANDUNGEY 54 55

29 JASONANDERSON 56 57

30 WITH A FLAWLESS PERFORMANCE, ADAM CIANCIARULO MADE A STATEMENT BY WINNING HIS FIRST-EVER SUPERCROSS RACE. WITH THE WIN, CIANCIARULO BECAME THE FIRST RIDER SINCE TREY CANARD IN 2008 TO WIN HIS FIRST CAREER SUPERCROSS START. able to take the lead and eventual win. Wilson was able to maintain second and teammate Justin Hill finished third. At round five, Wilson moved into the lead a few laps into the 15- lap race and rode to his first victory of the season. The West series ended its six-race run in San Diego by welcoming its fourth different winner as Hill took his first main event win of his career. Anderson reclaimed the championship points lead with his runner-up finish, while Troy Lee Designs/ Lucas Oil/ Honda s Malcolm Stewart secured his second podium finish of the season. Seely finished fourth and went from a tie for the points lead to a four-point deficit. Wilson sits fourth overall with 98 points and rookie Cooper Webb rounds out the top five with 92 points. They will resume the battle on April 5 at Houston s Reliant Stadium. 250 SX EAST It was all about the Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki team, who swept the podium at the opening round of the Eastern Regional 250SX class in Arlington, Texas. With a flawless performance, Adam Cianciarulo made a statement by winning his first-ever Supercross race. With the win, Cianciarulo became the first rider since Trey Canard in 2008 to win his first career Supercross start. He was joined on the podium by teammates Blake Baggett in second and Martin Davalos in third. 450 Supercross Championship Points (after 7 of 17 rounds) 1. Ryan Villopoto 144 (Dunlop) 2. Ken Roczen 132 (Dunlop) 3. James Stewart 130 (Dunlop) 4. Ryan Dungey 116 (Dunlop) 5. Justin Brayton Chad Reed 111 (Dunlop) 7. Justin Barcia 109 (Dunlop) 8. Andrew Short Wil Hahn 65 (Dunlop) 10. Broc Tickle 63 (Dunlop) 250 Supercross West Championship Points (after 6 of 9 rounds) 1. Jason Anderson 131 (Dunlop) 2. Cole Seely 127 (Dunlop) 3. Justin Hill 107 (Dunlop) 4. Dean Wilson 98 (Dunlop) 5. Cooper Webb 92 (Dunlop) 6. Malcolm Stewart 89 (Dunlop) 7. Jessy Nelson 76 (Dunlop) 8. Shane McElrath 71 (Dunlop) 9. Zach Osborne 69 (Dunlop) 10. Dean Ferris 63 (Dunlop) 250 Supercross East Championship Points (after 1 of 9 rounds) 1. Adam Cianciarulo 25 (Dunlop) 2. Blake Baggett 22 (Dunlop) 3. Martin Davalos 20 (Dunlop) 4. Vince Friese 18 (Dunlop) 5. Justin Bogle 16 (Dunlop) 6. Cole Thompson 15 (Dunlop) 7. Blake Wharton 14 (Dunlop) 8. Kyle Cunningham 13 (Dunlop) 9. Alex Martin 12 (Dunlop) 10. Mitchell Oldenburg 11 (Dunlop) ADAMCIANCIARULO 62 59

31 COLESEELY 60 61

32 2014 SUPERCROSS BIKES OF THE STARS When fans come to the races, more often than not they are coming for the excitement and action of the races themselves. However, before the gate drops that evening most Supercross enthusiasts can be found wandering the pits checking out the factory machines that propel their favorite riders to greatness. These bikes are purpose-built for racing at the highest level and are meticulously prepared by the rider s mechanics each week. But how much can you actually see standing behind each teams banners? Here s a closer look at the finer details of the 2014 Supercross bikes of the Stars

33 RYAN VILLOPOTO S MONSTER ENERGY KAWASAKI KX450F 64 65

34 JAMES STEWART S YOSHIMURA SUZUKI RM-Z450 CHAD REED S DISCOUNT TIRE/TWOTWO MOTORSPORTS KAWASAKI KX450F RYAN DUNGEY S RED BULL KTM 450SXF 66 67

35 JUSTIN BARCIA S TEAM HONDA MUSCLE MILK CRF450R TREY CANARD S TEAM HONDA MUSCLE MILK CRF450R 68 69

36 KEN ROCZEN S RED BULL KTM 450SXF ELI TOMAC S GEICO HONDA CRF450R MARVIN MUSQUIN S RED BULL KTM KTM 250 SX-F JUSTIN BOGLE S GEICO HONDA CRF250R 70 71

37 DEAN WILSON S MONSTER ENERGY KAWASAKI KX250F JASON ANDERSON S ROCKSTAR ENERGY RACING KTM 250 SX-F ADAM CIANCIARULO S MONSTER ENERGY KAWASAKI KX250F BROC TICKLE S RCH SUZUKI RM-Z