Keepin’ It Real
Brian Fisher: 10 Years of Adventure
Fighting Back
By Wayne Allard, AMA vice president for government relations
“We must all hang together, or assuredly we shall all hang separately.”—Benjamin Franklin
Opponents of ATV riding are hard at work trying to take away the freedoms of ATV riders.
They want to stop kids from riding ATVs, stop us from riding on public land and even want to stop us from riding in our own back yards.
Motorcyclists face many of the same threats that ATV riders face.
The fact is, ATV riders and motorcyclists face discrimination and the threat of discriminatory laws every day.
Our only defense against the many threats we face is the strength we derive by banding together—not only as ATV riders, but as off-highway motorcycle riders and streetbike riders as well.
That’s because if there’s one thing that politicians clearly understand, it’s strength in numbers.
We recently proved that with a landmark victory, when the ATVA, the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA), and their members played an important role in passing federal legislation that lifted a misguided nationwide ban on the sale of kids’ ATVs and off-highway motorcycles. Without the involvement of everyone in the riding community—from ATV and motorcycle industry officials to very young riders—this victory wouldn’t have happened.
If ATV and off-highway motorcycle and streetbike riders hadn’t joined forces to overturn this law, we would have lost an entire generation of young riders who would one day become adult riders. Without them, the future of ATV riding and motorcycling would, indeed, be bleak.
Attacks on the freedoms of ATV riders affect off-highway and street riders as well, and vice versa. When opponents win victories against one group, it gives them the momentum to attack others.
And some key issues are shared by ATV riders and motorcyclists, such as health insurance discrimination in which medical plans won’t cover injuries sustained in an ATV or motorcycle crash.
The ATVA and AMA recognize that ATV riders and motorcyclists share concerns about these attacks as do many state and local motorcyclists’ rights organizations. For example,
ABATE of Indiana, which was once strictly a street bike organization, now also counts ATV enthusiasts and offhighway motorcycle riders among its members.
Our fight to protect our freedoms is ongoing.
For example, there are many bills in Congress that would lock up millions of acres of public land by declaring them federal Wilderness, which is one of the strictest forms of public land management. Once Congress designates an area as Wilderness, nearly all forms of non-pedestrian recreation become illegal, including off-highway vehicle (OHV) riding.
Federal bureaucrats are also taking steps to create de facto Wilderness.
Our public lands are for the enjoyment of all Americans, and not just an elite few who would build a fence around them soley for the enjoyment of those who are physically able.
While the ATVA and AMA recognize that no single recreation type is appropriate for every setting, there are certainly many places where responsible OHV use can exist in harmony with other uses while preserving important natural and cultural resources.
ATV riders and motorcyclists must join together to fight these threats and others. We also must act individually to protect our freedoms. The ATVA and AMA provide many valuable tools to help you fight for your right to ride and race.
• Sign up to receive AMA News & Notes at ATVAonline.com > Rights > Resources to keep informed on hot topics, news affecting the ATV community and opportunities to communicate with your elected officials.
• Receive AMA Action Alerts by signing up at ATVAonline.com > Rights > Issues & Legislation and you will be notified by email when you can make a difference on important issues.
• Become an AMA grassroots activist and join forces with the ATVA and AMA to protect the future of ATVing. There’s more information at ATVAonline.com > Rights > Get Involved.
• Be sure to visit ATVAonline.com > Rights each week to stay informed.
The best way to get involved and make a difference in the legislative process is to vote in your local, state and federal elections. To protect the ATV lifestyle, we must support the elected officials who pledge their support for ATVing and then follow through with their commitment. The ATVA website makes it easy to register to vote.
We’ve demonstrated that when we stand together we can make a difference. Now is the time for each of us to do our part to protect our freedoms. More members mean more political clout. Join us in the fight in critical battles for all ATV riders and motorcyclists. Join your local activist ATV clubs and motorcyclists’ rights organizations.
And if you know someone who enjoys ATVs but isn’t an ATVA member, ask him or her to join at ATVAonline.com.
ON TRACK
U.S. Rep. Denny Rehberg
Outlines Threats To ATV Riders Under Attack
U.S. Rep. Denny Rehberg (R-At Large, Mont.), who is serving his sixth two-year term in Congress, is a fifth-generation family rancher who has managed more than 600 head of cattle. He’s also an avid ATV rider. We caught up with him to get an ATV rider’s perspective on federal Wilderness, the administration’s America’s Great Outdoors initiative, and what threats ATV riders may face on Capitol Hill this year.
ATVA News: How did you get involved in ATV riding?
Denny Rehberg: Like just about anyone who grows up working the land, I learned to ride as a part of my daily chores around the ranch. Ranchers still use horses, but as often as not, when you need to go out and fix a fence or corral some livestock, instead of saddling on a horse, you fire up an ATV.
Anyone who says you can’t have fun at work is simply in the wrong line of work. I love the job I currently have, and when I ride on my ranch I have a great time doing that, too. There’s something so liberating about riding on open land.
AN: What was your involvement in fighting the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) of 2008 that essentially banned the sale of kids’ ATVs and dirtbikes and why did it take so long to overturn the provisions related to kids’ off-highway vehicles?
DR: Two popular sayings come to mind. The first is that nothing in Washington, D.C., is harder to kill than a bad idea. The second is that once created, a new government policy or program is the closest thing to immortal that man can achieve on this earth.
When Congress passed a law banning lead from children’s toys, no one thought
the bureaucrats responsible for enforcing that law would expand the definition of “toy” to include youth-size ATVs, motorcycles and snowmobiles. But they did, and over our protests, these unelected bureaucrats started pulling youth-sized ATVs off showroom floors, forcing kids to ride more dangerous adult-size vehicles.
This just didn’t make sense, so I asked the Consumer Product Safety Commission to delay enforcement of the rule and added a provision to an Appropriations bill to stop any funding for the enforcement of the rule.
Sadly, unintended consequences like this aren’t uncommon. That’s one of the reasons I have always believed in erring on the side of caution when passing new laws.
AN: What are some of the biggest challenges facing ATV riders today?
DR: There’s a culture war in America right now, and ATV enthusiasts are on the front lines.
On one front, radical environmentalists are flexing their muscles to make sure the only way we can enjoy millions of acres of public land is on foot. The less access we have on public land, the harder it is to ride.
On another front, so-called safety advocates are fighting to keep our kids off motorized vehicles entirely, even if they’re
wearing helmets and safety gear. The over-protective hand of government won’t stop, it seems, until every child is safely encased in CPSC-approved bubble wrap and breathing EPA-approved oxygen from an FDA-approved tube.
In most cases where ATV culture is under fire, it’s from people in crowded cities who think open space means Central Park in downtown New York City. They can’t imagine a child riding a motorcycle on Sunset Boulevard, so they can’t imagine them doing it on a closed course in Billings, Montana.
It’s our job to protect our way of life.
AN: What do you think about the various Wilderness proposals being considered in Congress and how could they affect ATV riders?
DR: Wilderness is the most restrictive classification for public lands, which is why the creation of new Wilderness requires an act of Congress. There are places where Wilderness makes sense, but not everywhere.
Lately, there has been a lot of effort to change this. Radical efforts to keep motorized vehicles off of public land are becoming more common. They have a lot of different names: The Northern Rockies Ecosystem Protection Act, the Treasured Landscapes Initiative, and the Forest Jobs and Recreation Act. They all do the same thing—restrict your access to public lands.
AN: What can ATV riders do regarding Wilderness issues to help protect their right to ride?
DR: Ultimately, this is a fight that will be waged in Washington, D.C., and that means ATV riders need to make sure that
It’s not enough for a politician to say they support ATV access—words are cheap and a lot of congressmen and women will say one thing and then turn around and vote for something else.
Fortunately, with the internet and 24-hour news, it’s easier than ever to see exactly where someone stands. Look at their legislative scorecards from anti-ATV groups like the League of Conservation Voters or The Wilderness Society. Did your representative earn a high score? Ask them why.
Check OpenSecrets.org to see where these groups are donating money and ask yourself why. And then drop these lawmakers a line to let them know that you’re paying attention. Tell them that you vote.
AN: What is the federal administration’s America’s Great Outdoors initiative, and should ATV riders be concerned about it?
DR: The so-called America’s Great Outdoors initiative is a new effort to sell old ideas. They’re not good ideas, but like I said, bad ideas are hard to kill.
In this case, they polished a bad apple with some fresh new spin.
meetings to try and pitch their readymade plan.
It quickly became clear who had been left out of the conversations: anyone with occupational or recreational interests in land management. Anyone with a passion to preserve the land for recreational use. In other words, people like you.
ATV riders should see this for what it is—a new name for an old policy to shut them out of public lands.
AN: Are there any other federal or congressional initiatives that ATV riders should be concerned about?
DR: As I’ve already said, anti-ATV interest groups are pushing hard to restrict your access to public lands.
It’s not just Wilderness anymore. Did you know the federal government has locked up 43 million acres of federal land in so-called Wilderness Study Areas and Inventoried Roadless Areas?
These were possible Wilderness areas, but for whatever reason, the Bureau of Land Management or Forest Service, respectively, have determined they are not suitable for Wilderness. But they’re still treated like Wilderness.
It’s past time to return some of these lands to the public for your use and enjoyment. We have introduced legislation do to just that—H.R. 1581, the Wilderness and Roadless Area Release Act.
Take a minute and ask your senators and congressman to support this important legislation.
AN: How can ATV riders get more involved with the members of their congressional delegations to influence their decisions on issues?
DR: These days, it’s easier than ever before to contact your congressman and senators.
To really get noticed, you need to get organized, and that’s great news for ATV enthusiasts. As I was working to get the Kids Just Want To Ride Act signed into law, I was also honored to be included in the riding community. What an amazing thing to be a part of!
Bonded by a love for your sport, you look out for each other like a family. The sincerity of your enthusiasm is impossible to miss.
And it’s contagious.
Officials Won’t Give Up On ‘Wild Lands’ Policy Move Could Block Riding On Millions Of Acres Of Public Land
The inappropriate federal “Wild Lands” policy that can restrict responsible off-highway vehicle (OHV) riding on public land with little or no public input was thought to be dead and buried.
It’s not.
A notice in the Federal Register on Feb. 24 concerning federal Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Resource Management Plan (RMP) revisions indicates that the goal of the federal “Wild Lands” policy remains.
The notice for the Carson City, Nev., District RMP emphasizes that the BLM is seeking “nominations for Areas of Critical Environmental Concern and information on lands that may possess “wilderness characteristics.”
The ATVA now has two specific examples where the BLM is using the RMP process to advance de facto Wilderness through administrative fiat.
A Wilderness designation is one of the strictest forms of public land management. Once Congress designates an area as Wilderness, nearly all forms of non-pedestrian recreation are prohibited.
The ATVA supports appropriate Wilderness designations that meet the criteria established by Congress in 1964.
But over the years, groups opposed to responsible off-highway vehicle recreation have been abusing the Wilderness designation process to ban ATV riders, motorcyclists and others from public land, as well as to block access for the elderly, handicapped and children who rely on motorized transportation to enjoy public land.
On Feb. 6, the BLM issued a notice in the Federal Register affecting 2.4 million acres of public land in Colorado, Utah and Wyoming. The BLM decided to take a “fresh look” at land-use plans in those states dealing with oil shale and tar sands leases.
McConnell the people they send to Washington understand their issues.
Unlike previous efforts to shut out ATV access on public lands, this time they assured us that they got plenty of public input. You had to dig a little deeper to see exactly whose input they sought.
In the initial stages, the Obama administration held meetings with radical environmental groups to write the plan. Only after this was done did they call “invitation-only” public
That’s why the outstanding grassroots effort you mustered for the Kids Just Want to Ride Act is an excellent blueprint.
Utilize email and social media like Facebook and Twitter to educate your friends and family. Tell them why these are important issues. Contact your representatives frequently, and, when possible, in person.
“Even though this announcement deals with energy-related leases, which aren’t a concern of the ATVA, the BLM stated it will consider ‘wilderness characteristics’ in determining any future disposition of public land in the affected areas, which can include responsible off-highway vehicle recreation,” says Rick Podliska, AMA deputy director of government relations.
“Wilderness characteristics was the defining language used to describe the
Photos
Amy
Department of the Interior’s ‘Wild Lands’ policy,” Podliska says.
In the administration’s fiscal year 2013 budget, the BLM requested an increase of $4.4 million for Resource Management Planning. This will certainly help accelerate a goal to create de facto Wilderness through administrative fiat, Podliska says.
On Dec. 22, 2010, Interior Secretary Ken Salazar signed Secretarial Order 3310 creating a new land-use designation called “Wild Lands” that essentially allowed officials in the BLM to manage public land as if it had received a “Wilderness” land-use designation from Congress, but without requiring congressional approval.
Congress then blocked the “Wild Lands” proposal by refusing to fund it. Now, this latest policy appears to revive
Trails Could Open In
Arizona
“Wild Lands” and its implementation may restrict responsible off-highway riding in the affected areas.
If the “Wild Lands” policy is reemerging, anti-access advocates and the administration are once again seeking an end-run around Congress.
Salazar’s order has far-reaching implications because the BLM manages about 245 million acres of public land nationwide, primarily in western states.
Podliska says ATVA members and other OHV enthusiasts should write their senators and representatives today to oppose any usurpation of congressional authority with regards to public land designations.
The easiest way to make your opinion known to your lawmakers is to send a pre-written letter by going to ATVAonline.com > Rights > Issues & Legislation.
Tonto National Forest May Add 350 Miles
The Tonto National Forest in Arizona is putting together a travel management plan that could add 350 miles of trails.
The plan is a proposed system of roads, trails and riding areas. Based on public input, several alternatives are proposed in a draft Environmental Assessment (EA). The final product will be a Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM) that shows which roads and trails will be open to motor vehicle use.
In 2005, the Department of Agriculture enacted a new planning rule to manage motorized vehicle use on all national forests and grasslands. This rule requires the Tonto National Forest to designate those roads, trails, and areas that are open to motor
vehicle use. Designations will be made by the class of vehicle and, if appropriate, by the time of year.
The final rule will prohibit the use of motor vehicles off the designated system, as well as use of motor vehicles on routes and in areas that are not consistent with the designations.
“The purpose of the Motor Vehicle Use Map is to comply with the requirements of the Travel Management Rule, to reduce problems caused by uncontrolled off-road travel, and to improve the current system of travel routes for public access and enjoyment,” says Sharon Wallace, Tonto National Forest Public Services Group leader.
Yamaha Awards $96,000 For Off-Road Projects
Projects from Michigan To Colorado Get Funds
Yamaha Motor Corp., U.S.A., has announced awards totaling $96,000 for seven projects supporting safe, responsible off-highway Vehicle (OHV) riding and open, sustainable OHV access to trails and riding areas across the country.
The awards are part of the company’s OHV Access Initiative.
Grants went to the Northern Wayne Outdoor Recreation Club of Lakewood, Pa., the Ouachita ATV Club in Mena, Ark., the city of Earlington in Kentucky, the Keweenaw ATV Club in Michigan, the Rio Grande National Forest-Divide Ranger District in Del Norte, Colo., the Texas 4-H Youth Development Foundation and the Vermont ATV Sportsman’s Association.
Since 2008, Yamaha has awarded more than 160 GRANTs (Guaranteeing Responsible Access to our Nation’s Trails) in 33 states. The OHV Access Initiative requires a Yamaha dealer endorsement for each application, facilitating interaction between dealers and OHV groups as well as encouraging dealer involvement in important projects across the country.
The OHV Access Initiative GRANT application form and guidelines are available online at Yamaha-Motor.com/ OHVAccess.
Polaris Accepting ATV Grant Applications
Up To $10,000 Available For Each Project
Polaris is accepting applications for its T.R.A.I.L.S. grant program, which provides up to $10,000 per project to help fund ATV trail development, safety and riding access projects.
The grant program’s name stands for:
T: Trail Development
R: Responsible Riding
A: Access
I: Initiatives
L: Lobbying
S: Safety.
Groups eligible to apply for grants include ATV clubs, associations and grassroots groups across the United States. The program focuses on ensuring the future of ATV riding by promoting safe and responsible riding and preserving riding access.
Grant application forms are available at PolarisIndustries.com.
‘Fisher’s ATV World’ TV Show Honored
Wins Outdoor Channel’s ‘Best Off-Road Series’ Award
“Fisher’s ATV World” has earned the Outdoor Channel’s Golden Moose Award for “Best Off-Road Series.”
The award was announced at a Jan. 19 ceremony at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, Nev., which was filmed during the National Shooting Sports Foundation’s annual Shooting, Hunting, Outdoor Trade Show and Conference (SHOT Show).
“Fisher’s ATV World” is an awardwinning, adventure/lifestyle television show covering all aspects of ATVs. This was the first year that the Outdoor Channel’s Golden Moose Awards included a voted category for “Best OffRoad Series.” “Fisher’s ATV World” was one of five TV shows nominated.
Brian Fisher, host of “Fisher’s ATV World,” says: “It is a huge honor for us to win this first-ever ‘Off-Road Series’ voted category. We have the best team of people and they all work very hard to make our show a success. After 10 years of all the hard work, traveling and sacrifice, this makes it all worth it.”
For more on Brian Fisher and “Fisher’s ATV World,” see page 8.
Online Quiz
About Ethanol
Some Blends Could Cause Damage to Certain Engines
Motorcycle and power equipment manufacturer Husqvarna has developed the “Ethanol Challenge”—an animated online quiz to educate consumers about ethanol and the damage certain blends can cause.
Ask The ATV Safety Institute –Crossing Logs
YOU ASK: When I’m riding my ATV and come to a tree that has fallen across the trail, what’s the best way to safely ride over it? And how do I decide whether the tree is too big for me to get over?
THE ASI RESPONDS: (Note: a skilled rider can cross an obstacle larger than an ATV’s ground clearance, but this requires advanced techniques that we won’t cover here.)
The first rule when faced with this type of obstacle is to determine whether your ATV has enough ground clearance. A good rule of thumb is to compare the height of the log to the height of your skid plate. Consult your owner’s manual for specific recommendations, as each ATV has its own capabilities.
The key to crossing a log safely on an ATV is doing so head-on, at as close to a 90-degree angle as possible, so the ATV doesn’t glance off in another direction.
Approach the log in low gear, with four-wheel drive engaged if you have that feature. Stand up on the footrests and keep your knees and elbows slightly bent. Stay centered on the vehicle, keeping your weight off the handlebars. This allows the front wheels to surmount the obstacle— with help from a small amount of throttle—and lets you move forward as the rear wheels contact and go over the obstacle. Release the throttle as the front wheels clear.
If you don’t shift your body forward and release the throttle when the rear wheels contact the log, the back of
Ethanol is essentially grain alcohol produced from crops such as corn that is mixed with gasoline to produce an ethanol-gasoline blend motor fuel. A blend with 10 percent ethanol, known as E10, is common around the nation and E15 is expected to start appearing soon.
The ATVA has repeatedly expressed concerns to government officials and federal lawmakers about possible damage to ATV engines caused by the inadvertent use of E15 when the new fuel becomes
the ATV can smack you in the seat of the pants, knocking you off balance. It’s best to practice crossing a variety of obstacles before you take to the trail. ASI’s booklet “Tips and Practice Guide for the All-Terrain Vehicle Rider” outlines exercises you can practice on your own to help develop your techniques. Better yet, take a hands-on ASI ATV RiderCourse. (For information about the booklet or class, go to www. ATVsafety.org.)
In any case, there’s no shame in choosing to find another way around any obstacle you encounter that exceeds your skill level.
The All-Terrain Vehicle Safety Institute (ASI), a not-for-profit division of the Specialty Vehicle Institute of America (SVIA), was formed in 1988 to implement an expanded national program of all-terrain vehicle safety education and awareness. For safety information or to enroll in an ATV RiderCourse, call (800) 887-2887 or go online to ATV safety.org.
widely available.
The ATVA has also expressed concerns about the diminishing availability of gasoline that has no ethanol, or gasoline with only a 10 percent blend, which is safe for use in ATVs.
The quiz is available at http://ethanol. husqvarna.com and those who take it can enter to win prizes ranging from a lawn mower to a string trimmer.
The contest ends May 14.
Brian Fisher:
Keepin’ It
Real
Arguably one of the most popular ATV riders on the planet, Brian Fisher has a contagious enthusiasm for all things ATV: from riding to machines to gadgets to gear. His award-winning TV show “Fisher’s ATV World” is must-see TV, and his “Keepin’ It Real” Tour that travels to riding areas around the United States helps keep him in touch with his fans. We caught up with Fisher to find out his plans for 2012 and get his thoughts on some current ATV issues.
ATVA News: First, how did you come up with your cool fish logo?
Brian Fisher: The fish logo was something my wife, Melissa, and I came up with. We wanted something mean but clean and cool— an image that people could associate with us. Everyone called me “Fish” in school because my last name is Fisher, so we thought it just fit.
AN: What’s behind your “Keepin’ It Real” slogan?
BF: When I was trying to get sponsors, everyone kept asking me what I would do different from everyone else who tried an ATV show and failed. I told them we would just “keep it real”—no scripts, cue cards or teleprompters— just real adventures about ATVing.
AN: Tell us about some of the things that you’ve done on your TV show and what fans can expect in 2012.
BF: 2012 is our 10th year of producing our television show, “Fisher’s ATV World.” We’ve done everything from taking on the jungle challenge in Costa Rica to getting stranded in Copper Canyon in the middle of Mexico where our guide left us. CONTINUED ON PAGE 10
We’re always looking at new ways to keep the show fresh and exciting, and try not to do the same thing over and over.
For 2012, we’re changing up our style a little by getting the viewers out on the trail for more riding and visiting some pretty cool locations.
We’re still on the Outdoor Channel every Monday at 4 p.m. and 9 p.m., and Tuesdays at 12:30 a.m. (all times Eastern). “Fisher’s ATV World” was nominated for, and won, the Golden Moose Award in January for “Best Off-Road Series” on the Outdoor Channel.
AN: What are the most rewarding and most difficult parts of putting the show together?
BF: The hardest part of putting the show together is shooting it. Everything goes 100 mph when you’re on a shoot and when you get done, you sit back and think, “Did we get everything?”
The most fun part of any shoot or trip is getting to meet the people and hearing their stories about their ATV adventures.
AN: How long have you been doing the Fisher’s ATV World “Keepin’ It Real” Tour? What’s involved with that?
BF: The “Keepin’ It Real” Tour got started in 2011. We travel to off-road parks and riding areas throughout the United States. The goal is to hit the trails and meet as many outdoor enthusiasts as possible.
Our travel schedule will be posted on our website when it is finalized: FishersATVWorld.com.
AN: It must be pretty cool to have that “Keepin’ It Real” Tour bus.
BF: The “Keepin It Real” Tour bus has definitely changed our lives on the road, for sure. We have all the comforts of home rolling down the road.
When we get to the riding areas and events, it only takes a few minutes to get set up and we’re ready to ride. Having the bus has lots of benefits.
We have lots of room to store our riding gear, we can wash our dirty riding gear in our washer and dryer, we have a full-size shower and bathroom at hand, we eat a lot better with a full-size fridge and kitchen, we know where we’re going to be sleeping and what it’s like and we have a place to get away when we need some quiet time or want to get out of the heat or rain.
We can now take our kids and black lab “Max” along. It’s just like being at home.
AN: When and where is this year’s Fisher’s ATV World Reunion, and what can fans expect?
BF: The 5th Annual Fisher’s ATV Reunion will be held at Rock Run Recreation Area in Patton, Pa., Aug. 9-12. We’ve added one more day to our reunion, so now it’s four days instead of three.
Fans can expect more fun things for the kids to do, more shower houses, two concerts, over 20 acres of vendors, demo rides from manufacturers and we’re working on adding a 3D archery tournament for 2012.
We also always do what we can to help charities raise funds. We pick a new charity every year and particularly like helping anything that involves kids. They’re a special part of our television show and the reunion.
ATV clubs have an opportunity to do some work at our event and raise some funds to help their club out.
AN: Tell us about the Mud Club.
BF: The Mud Club is like our fan club. We have members from all over the country. It’s a great place for ATV and SxS enthusiasts to talk on the dedicated Mud Club website [reachable through FishersATVWorld.com] and open up communications with likeminded people.
“Meeting the fans is the best part of our job. My personal favorite part is meeting the kids and listening to them share their ATV adventures.”
— Brian Fisher
Can-Am Sweeps Podium In Dakar Rally 4x4 Quad Class
30 Teams Started, 11 Finished
Can-Am ATV racers Daniel Mazzucco, Barry Cruces and Petar Cenkov (Team Rally Raid/Can-Am) finished first, second and third in the 4x4 Quad class of the 2012 Dakar Rally held Jan. 1-15.
The grueling event started in Mar del Plata, Argentina, with 30 hopeful ATV racers heading out to battle 5,592 miles of rugged terrain across Argentina, Chile, and Peru. Only 11 teams crossed the finish line.
“Out of my three Dakar participations, this was without a doubt the toughest,” Argentinean pilot Mazzucco (Team AGO-MD/Can-Am) declared upon receiving his first-place trophy. “The ATV performed extremely well. The Renegades filled the podium on the 4x4, which was a great result. I also must commend my technical support team for providing excellent support and assistance.”
Cruces, runner-up in the 4x4 Quad class for Team Nextel by Can-Am and a Dakar newcomer, agreed.
“The Renegade did not give me any issues, and our technical team was absolutely great. Being the novice at this event, I raced at my own pace with only one goal in mind: finish the race. On many occasions, I was ready to give up, but people back home, my teammates, and their support kept me going. And I did it!”
Maxxis Offering Cash Contingencies For Racers
More Than $1 Million Up For Grabs
Maxxis is offering cash contingencies totaling more than $1 million to ATV and motorcycle racers in various U.S. offroad race series.
The company says cash payouts are available to firstthrough third-place finishers in most classes.
Payouts range from $25 up to $500 in a variety of series,
including the AMA ATV Motocross National Championship Series, AMA Extreme Dirt Track National Championship Series and AMA Mid America XC Championship Series.
“We’re offering up to $1 million in cash again for 2012,” says Scott Perkins, marketing specialist for Maxxis’ Specialty Tire Division. “We are proud to offer this support to all the racers in these series.”
Riders must run Maxxis tires on all four wheels of their ATVs and must display a minimum of four 6.5-inch Maxxis decals on their ATVs.
Full instructions are on the contingency application forms, which can be downloaded at http://www.maxxis.com/ MotorcycleATV/Contingency-Programs.aspx.
SSi Decals Returns to Support the 2012 AMA ATV Motocross National Championship Series
The ATV Promoter’s Group (ATVPG) announced the addition of SSi Decals, a leading supplier of ATV decals and graphics kits, as an associate sponsor of the 2012 AMA ATV Motocross National Championship Series.
As part of its support of ATV Motocross, SSi Decals will, once again, sponsor the SSi Decals Holeshot Award for pro racers at all 10 rounds of the series.
“SSi Decals is fully committed to the ATV industry and proud to be an associate sponsor of the 2012 ATVMX Series,” says Ian Harris, owner of SSi Decals. “We are excited to elevate our role in the series this year and believe we offer the best product on the market when it comes to decals. Our support of the ATV industry extends to all ages and riderlevels.”
The 2012 AMA ATV Motocross National Championship Series kicks off its 10-race series March 24 and 25 at Aonia Pass MX Park in Washington, Ga. For more information on the series, visit ATVmotocross.com.
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MAY 28: PIERCETON: READS RACING, (574) 893-1649, READSRACING.COM
JUN 2: ROCHESTER: READS RACING, (574) 893-1649, READSRACING.COM
JUN 3: ROCHESTER: READS RACING, (574) 893-1649, READSRACING.COM
JUN 9-10: WABASH: 2-DAY EVENT, WABASH CANNONBALL MOTORCYCLE CLUB, (765) 9853657, WABASHCANNONBALLMC. COM
JUN 10: AKRON: READS RACING, (574) 893-1649, READSRACING. COM
JUN 16: PIERCETON: READS RACING, (574) 893-1649, READSRACING.COM
JUN 17: PIERCETON: READS RACING, (574) 893-1649, READSRACING.COM
JUN 17: CROTHERSVILLE: LET’S GO RACING LLC, (812) 374-8228, HIGHFLYMX.COM
JUN 30: PIERCETON: READS RACING, (574) 893-1649, READSRACING.COM
JUN 30-JULY 1: CAYUGA: 2-DAY EVENT, PLEASURE RIDERS MC, (309) 838-5062, PLEASURERIDERS.NET
IOWA
MOTOCROSS
APR 21: SHELLROCK: NEW HARTFORD RACING INC, (319) 885-6469, NEWHARTFORDRACING.COM
APR 22: SHELLROCK: NEW HARTFORD RACING INC, (319) 885-6469, NEWHARTFORDRACING.COM
APR 28: CEDAR RAPIDS: CEDAR VALLEY TRAIL RIDERS INC, (319) 363-7800, CVTR.ORG
MAY 12: CEDAR RAPIDS: CEDAR
VALLEY TRAIL RIDERS INC, (319) 363-7800, CVTR.ORG
JUN 9: CEDAR RAPIDS: CEDAR VALLEY TRAIL RIDERS INC, (319) 363-7800, CVTR.ORG
JUN 23: CEDAR RAPIDS: CEDAR VALLEY TRAIL RIDERS INC, (319) 363-7800, CVTR.ORG
KENTUCKY
MOTOCROSS
JUN 2-3: OAKLAND: 2-DAY EVENT, VICTORY SPORTS INC, (423) 323-5497, VICTORYSPORTS.COM
MARYLAND MOTOCROSS
APR 29: MECHANICSVILLE: BUDDS CREEK MOTOCROSS PARK, (301) 475-2000, BUDDSCREEK.COM
MAY 5-6: MECHANICSVILLE: 2-DAY EVENT, MOTOPROMO, (301) 475-2000, BUDDSCREEK. COM
MASSACHUSETTS
HILLCLIMB
APR 22: MONSON: QUABOAG RIDERS INC, (413) 267-4414, QUABOAGRIDERSMC.COM
MICHIGAN
1/2 MILE DIRT TRACK
JUN 23-24: CROSWELL: 2-DAY EVENT, PORT HURON MOTORCYCLE CLUB INC, (810) 985-7800, PHMC-USA.COM
HARE SCRAMBLES
JUN 3: MIO: WHITE TRASH RACING MC, (989) 274-7243
JUN 17: BENTLEY: VALLEY TRAIL RIDERS, (989) 879-6397, THEVALLEYTRAILRIDER.COM
JUN 24: ROSE CITY: BENT WHEELS COMPETITION CLUB INC, (248) 895-6740, BENTWHEELS.COM
MOTOCROSS
MAY 13: CADILLAC: CADILLAC MOTORCYCLE CLUB INC, (231) 884-3729, CADILLACMC.COM
MAY 19: BATTLE CREEK: BATTLE CREEK MOTORCYCLE CLUB, (369) 729-9691, BATTLECREEKCYCLECLUB.COM
MAY 20: BATTLE CREEK: BATTLE CREEK MOTORCYCLE CLUB, (269) 729-9691, BATTLECREEKMOTORCYCLE CLUB.COM
JUN 10: CADILLAC: CADILLAC MOTORCYCLE CLUB INC, (231) 884-3729, CADILLACMC.COM
JUN 16: CHRISTMAS: X-MAS FAMILY MOTORSPORTS PARK LLC, (906) 202-2681, X-MASFAMILYMOTORSPORTS. COM
JUN 17: CHRISTMAS: X-MAS FAMILY MOTORSPORTS PARK LLC, (906) 202-2681, X-MASFAMILYMOTORSPORTS. COM
SHORT TRACK
MAY 19: DEFORD: LUCKY THUMB MC, (810) 404-2895, LUCKYTHUMBMOTORCYCLE CLUB.COM
TT
MAY 20: DEFORD: LUCKY THUMB MC, (810) 404-2895, LUCKYTHUMBMOTORCYCLE CLUB.COM
MINNESOTA
TRAIL RIDE - RECREATIONAL
JUN 17: MANKATO: KATO CYCLE CLUB, KATOCYCLECLUB.COM
1/2 MILE DIRT TRACK
JUN 24: CAMBRIDGE: NORSEMEN MOTORCYCLE CLUB, (612) 8652661, NORSEMENMC.ORG HILLCLIMB
JUN 10: MANKATO: KATO CYCLE CLUB, KATOCYCLECLUB.COM
MOTOCROSS
APR 29: BROWERVILLE: MOTO
CITY RACEWAY & RECREATION INC, (612) 919-3457, MOTOCITYRACEWAY.COM
MAY 27-28: MAZEPPA: 2-DAY
EVENT, HURRICANE HILLS MX PARK INC
JUN 10: LITTLE FALLS: MOTO
CITY RACEWAY & RECREATION INC, (612) 919-3457, MOTOCITYRACEWAY.COM
JUN 24: BROWERVILLE: MOTO CITY RACEWAY & RECREATION INC, (612) 919-3457, MOTOCITYRACEWAY.COM
MISSOURI
MOTOCROSS
JUN 24: KIRKSVILLE: THUNDER RIDGE MX PARK LLC, (660) 6265138, THUNDERRIDGE-MXPARK. COM
NEVADA
GRAND PRIX
MAY 5-6: PRIMM: 2-DAY EVENT, SUNLAND SHAMROCKS, (818) 767-4594
NEW JERSEY
MOTOCROSS
JUN 1: WILDWOOD: NEW JERSEY THUNDER MOTORSPORTS INC, (609) 523-8051, THUNDERMOTO. COM
NEW YORK
HARE SCRAMBLES
MAY 6: VANETTEN: DREAM RIDERS, (607) 589-6337, WNYOA. NET
JUN 3: NEWARK: ARCADIA BARK BUSTER, (315) 548-5145
JUN 17: CATO: CATO MX, LLC, (315) 247-7245, CATO-MX.COM
JUN 24: BERKSHIRE: ITHACA DIRT RIDERS INC, (607) 657-8248, ITHACADIRTRIDERS.COM
MOTOCROSS
APR 15: AUBURN: FROZEN OCEAN MOTOCROSS INC, (315) 784-5466, FROZEN-OCEAN.COM
APR 29: NEW BERLIN: UNADILLA VALLEY SPORTS CENTER, (607) 965-8450, UNADILLAMX.COM
MAY 6: WALLKILL: WALDEN MX, (845) 895-2537, WALDENMX. COM
MAY 19-20: NEW BERLIN: 2-DAY EVENT, UNADILLA VALLEY SPORTS CENTER, (607) 965-8450, UNADILLAMX.COM
JUN 17: NEW BERLIN: UNADILLA VALLEY SPORTS CENTER, (607) 965-8450, UNADILLAMX.COM
SHORT TRACK
MAY 5: PORT CRANE: SQUARE DEAL RIDERS M/C, (607) 6932634, SQUAREDEALRIDERS.COM
MAY 18: PORT CRANE: SQUARE DEAL RIDERS M/C, (607) 6932634, SQUAREDEALRIDERS.COM
MAY 19: PORT CRANE: SQUARE DEAL RIDERS M/C, (607) 6932634, SQUAREDEALRIDERS.COM
JUN 2: PORT CRANE: SQUARE DEAL RIDERS M/C, (607) 6932634, SQUAREDEALRIDERS.COM
JUN 29: PORT CRANE: SQUARE DEAL RIDERS M/C, (607) 6932634, SQUAREDEALRIDERS.COM
JUN 30: PORT CRANE: SQUARE DEAL RIDERS M/C, (607) 6932634, SQUAREDEALRIDERS.COM OHIO
HILLCLIMB
MAY 19: MARIETTA: PIONEER MOTORCYCLE CLUB INC, (740) 350-8626, PIONEERMOTORCYCLECLUB. COM
MAY 20: MARIETTA: PIONEER MOTORCYCLE CLUB INC, (740) 350-8626, PIONEERMOTORCYCLECLUB. COM
JUN 16: MARIETTA:
CALENDAR
PIONEER MOTORCYCLE CLUB INC, (740) 350-8326, PIONEERMOTORCYCLECLUB. COM
JUN 17: MARIETTA: PIONEER MOTORCYCLE CLUB INC, (740) 350-8326, PIONEERMOTORCYCLECLUB. COM
HARE SCRAMBLES
MAY 20: ATHENS: ATHENS MOTORCYCLE CLUB, (740) 592-6480, ATHENSMOTORCYCLECLUB. COM
JUN 10: SUGAR GROVE: CENTRAL OHIO COMPETITION RIDERS INC., (740) 983-3937, COCRMX.COM
MOTOCROSS
APR 1: SUGAR GROVE: CENTRAL OHIO COMPETITION RIDERS INC, (740) 983-3937, COCRMX. COM
APR 29: SUGAR GROVE: CENTRAL OHIO COMPETITION RIDERS INC, (740) 983-3937, COCRMX.COM
MAY 13: AMERICAN MOTOSPORTS LLC, (937) 3582427, AMERICANMX.COM
MAY 27: SUGAR GROVE: CENTRAL OHIO COMPETITION RIDERS INC, (740) 983-3937, COCRMX.COM
MAY 28: MARYSVILLE: AMERICAN MOTOSPORTS LLC, (937) 3582427, AMERICANMX.COM
JUN 15: HILLIARD: AMERICAN MOTOSPORTS LLC, (937) 3582427, AMERICANMX.COM
OREGON
POKER RUN - OFF-ROAD
MAY 5: BEND: CENTRAL OREGON MOTORCYCLE AND ATV CLUB, (541) 382-5560, COMACCLUB.ORG
PENNSYLVANIA
HARE SCRAMBLES
APR 29: CLIFFORD: BP PROMOTIONS, PAHSRACING. COM
MAY 20: EVANSVILLE: BP PROMOTIONS, (267) 261-0186, PAHSRACING.COM
JUN 10: NEELYTON: FT OF MOUNTAIN, (814) 259-3873
JUN 17: PLYMOUTH: BACK MOUNTAIN ENDURO RIDERS, (570) 675-1814, BMER.ORG
JUN 30-JULY 1: SHAMOKIN: 2-DAY EVENT, VALLEY FORGE TRAIL RIDERS, (610) 476-3747, VFTR. ORG
MOTOCROSS
JUN 3: HANOVER: HAPPY RAMBLERS, (717) 634-2353, HAPPYRAMBLERS.COM
JUN 16-17: MT. MORRIS: 2-DAY EVENT, RACER PRODUCTIONS INC, (304) 284-0084, ATVMOTOCROSS.COM
SHORT TRACK
APR 29: SHIPPENSBURG: SHIPPENSBURG MC, (717) 796-0294
TENNESSEE
MOTOCROSS
APR 15: LIVINGSTON: VICTORY SPORTS INC, (423) 323-5497, VICTORY-SPORTS.COM
APR 21-22: BLOUNTVILLE: 2-DAY EVENT, VICTORY SPORTS
INC, (423) 323-5497, VICTORYSPORTS.COM
APR 28: BLOUNTVILLE: VICTORY SPORTS INC, (423) 323-5497, VICTORY-SPORTS.COM
APR 29: BLOUNTVILLE: VICTORY SPORTS INC, (423) 323-5497, VICTORY-SPORTS.COM
VIRGINIA
CROSS COUNTRY
APR 22: PETERSBURG: LONE RIDER PRODUCTIONS LLC, (866) 967-8927, VXCS.ORG
WASHINGTON
DUAL SPORT RIDE
JUN 16: LEAVENWORTH: LAKE WENATCHEE RECREATION CLUB, (509) 763-3858, LAKEWENATCHEERECCLUB. COM
SHORT TRACK
MAY 12: CASTLE ROCK: MOUNT ST HELENS MC CLUB INC, (360) 274-8700, MSHMC.ORG
TT
MAY 12: CASTLE ROCK: MOUNT ST HELENS MC CLUB INC, (360) 274-8700, MSHMC.ORG
WISCONSIN
1/2 MILE DIRT TRACK
JUN 9: JUNEAU: BEAVER CYCLE CLUB INC, , BEAVERCYCLECLUB. COM
HILLCLIMB
MAY 20: NEKOOSA: RAPID ANGELS MOTORCYCLE CLUB INC, (715) 451-1168, RAPIDSANGELS.COM
JUN 24: HIXTON: CMJ RACEWAY LLC, , CMJRACEWAY.COM
MOTOCROSS
APR 22: HILLPOINT: SUGAR MAPLE MX LLC, (608) 393-8812, SUGARMAPLEMX.COM
APR 29: NEKOOSA: RAPID ANGELS MOTORCYCLE CLUB INC, (715) 451-1168, RAPIDSANGELS.COM
MAY 20: MARSHIELD: MARSHFIELD T & T RIDERS INC, (715) 384-4555
MAY 27: ATHELSTANE: PINE
RIDGE RACEWAY LLC, (715) 8566612, PINERIDGERACEWAY.COM
JUN 16: ARKANSAW: ARKANSAW CREEK CYCLE CLUB INC, (715) 285-5679, ARKANSAWMX.COM
JUN 17: ARKANSAW: ARKANSAW CREEK CYCLE CLUB INC, (715) 285-5679, ARKANSAWMX.COM
JUN 30: RHINELANDER: SUGAR CAMP AREA RACING ENTERPRISES, (715) 272-1101, SUGARCAMP.ENT.COM SCRAMBLES
MAY 20: BURNETT: BEAVER CYCLE CLUB INC, BEAVERCYCECLUB.COM
JUN 24: BURNETT: BEAVER CYCLE CLUB INC, BEAVERCYCLECLUB.COM
SHORT TRACK
MAY 19: BURNETT: BEAVER CYCLE CLUB INC, BEAVERCYCLECLUB.COM
JUN 1: PLYMOUTH: SOUTHEASTERN SHORT TRACKERS LTD, (262) 339-7430, DAIRYLANDCLASSIC.COM
JUN 23: BURNETT: BEAVER CYCLE CLUB INC, BEAVERCYCLECLUB.COM
Motocross Champion
As a member of the All-Terrain Vehicle Association (ATVA), John Natalie helped defeat the lead law that essentially banned the sale of ATVs for kids 12 and younger. In doing so, he helped save ATVing for future generations. He is keeping motocross tracks open and fighting unfair laws that close trails. He’s helping battle medical insurance discrimination against ATV riders and is represented in the halls of government by ATVA freedom fighters. You can, too. The ATVA is part of the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA), the world’s most powerful voice for motorcyclists.