Dunlop Download - Issue 29

JULY 2013

ON THE COVER: If you think progress is a good thing, get a load of the Sportmax Q3, the next-generation sportbike tire featuring Carbon Fiber Technology— CFT—plus more race-tested Dunlop tire technology.

CONTENTS

FOR DUNLOP VIDEOS PLEASE VISIT YOUTUBE.COM/DUNLOPTIRESCHANNEL

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DUNLOP MOTORCYCLE ANNOUNCES ADDITIONAL SOCIAL MEDIA CHANNELS

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HARLEY-DAVIDSON CELEBRATES ITS 110TH ANNIVERSARY IN ROME

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TEAM DUNLOP: MAKING THE GRADE

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DUNLOP SPORTMAX Q3: HIGHER PERFORMANCE PLUS EXCELLENT VALUE

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DON’T TAKE DUNLOP’S WORD FOR IT

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KEVIN SCHWANTZ AT THE DUNLOP PROVING GROUNDS

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DUNLOP CLAIMS THREE SUPERCROSS TITLES IN 2013

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TEAM D RIDERS PREPARE FOR LORETTA LYNN’S

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INTRODUCING THE GEOMAX AT81/AT81 DESERT RC

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MX UPDATE

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GEICO MOTORCYCLE AMA PRO ROAD RACING: 2013 MID-SEASON REPORT

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DUNLOP RIDERS SET LAP RECORD AND FASTEST RACE LAP TIMES AT BARBER

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DUNLOP PROVING GROUNDS: A ONE-OF-A-KIND FACILITY IN THE U.S.

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A LASTING RELATIONSHIP

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UPCOMING EVENTS

Dunlop Download magazine is published for Dunlop Motorcycle Tires by Vreeke & Associates. www.vreeke.com

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DUNLOP MOTORCYCLE ANNOUNCES ADDITIONAL SOCIAL MEDIA CHANNELS

Dunlop Motorcycle has expanded its social media outlets with

involvement in social media is a great opportunity to get to

a variety of additional ways for North American motorcycle

know our customers even better.”

riders to interact with the popular tire brand online.

Through its new social media channels, Dunlop will be able to In addition to its Website (www.dunlopmotorcycle.com) and

interact with riders across North America while providing them

YouTube channel (www.youtube.com/dunloptireschannel) the

with a wide array of relevant, tire-related content and insider

company has added an integrated social media presence,

racing information. The Dunlop Twitter account, @RideDunlop,

which includes brand profiles on Twitter

provides an outlet for the company to share real-time updates

(www.twitter.com/RideDunlop) and Facebook

at events, along with the latest product news and

(www.facebook.com/RideDunlop).

announcements. The company will also share a variety of news, photos and promotions on Facebook, and video

Dunlop’s expanded social media presence represents the tire

highlights of products and events will be frequently updated

maker’s increased commitment to interacting with riders in

on the Dunlop YouTube channel.

new and exciting ways.

To support this new effort, Dunlop has also added Chris “As the largest supplier of original equipment and replacement

Wagers to its motorcycle tire marketing group as the

motorcycle tires in the U.S., riders across North America know

company’s interactive marketing specialist. Wagers will

the Dunlop name,” said Mike Manning, Dunlop’s general

oversee Dunlop's motorcycle social media platforms and

manager of marketing. “We interact with riders face-to-face at

online communications for North America.

races, rallies, shows and other events, so increasing our "I'm very excited to join the Dunlop motorcycle team,” said Wagers. “This industry is filled with passionate and dedicated enthusiasts, and I look forward to interacting with our customers through Dunlop’s new social media channels.”

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HARLEY-DAVIDSON CELEBRATES ITS 110TH ANNIVERSARY IN ROME 6

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Pope Francis blessed thousands of Harley-Davidson motorcycles and riders to the celebratory roar of V-Twin engines in Vatican City. Harley-Davidson fans from all over the world took part in the pontiff’s Sunday ceremonies as part of Harley-Davidson’s 110th Anniversary celebrations in Rome.

“Our promise to our customers is to offer them once-in-alifetime experiences that few other brands can fulfill,” said Mark-Hans Richer, Chief Marketing Officer, Harley-Davidson Motor Company. “Having our customers treated to the blessing today fulfills that promise of epic adventures.”

The four-day anniversary celebration in Italy took place in June, and drew to a close with a full program of music and entertainment at the Port of Ostia, Rome. The event marked the European leg of Harley-Davidson’s 110th Anniversary, a year-long series of global celebrations spanning 11 countries on six continents culminating in the company’s hometown of Milwaukee during the last weekend in August.

As a sponsor of the Harley-Davidson 110th anniversary, Dunlop was a proud participant in the event in Rome.

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BLAKEBAGGETT

ELITOMAC

ASHLEYFIOLEK

JUSTINBARCIA

TEAM DUNLOP: MAKING THE GRADE EVER WONDER WHAT HAPPENS TO THE TEAM DUNLOP KIDS WHEN THEY GROW UP? WELL, A LOT OF THEM GO ON TO MAKE THE GRADE IN THE PRO RANKS. AMONG THEM ARE NUMEROUS NATIONAL CHAMPIONS, AND EVERY YEAR THE LIST OF TEAM DUNLOP RIDERS TO LAND A SEAT IN THE PROFESSIONAL RANKS GROWS. HERE’S THE PRO REPORT CARD SO FAR.

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Max Anstie

(Currently racing World GP MX1)

Blake Baggett

Team Kawasaki—National Champion

Justin Barcia

Team Honda Muscle Milk—National Champion

Zach Bell

GEICO Honda

Justin Bogle

GEICO Honda

Jake Canada

Team Moto Concepts

Adam Cianciarulo

Team Kawasaki

Ashley Fiolek

Team Honda, retired—National Champion

Jacob Hayes

AG Motorsports

Justin Hill

Team Kawasaki

Jessy Nelson

GEICO Honda

Zach Osborne

GEICO Honda

Joey Savatgy

FMF/Orange Brigade/ KTM

Eli Tomac

GEICO Honda—National Champion

Cooper Webb

Team Yamaha

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ADAMCIANCIARULO

ZACHOSBORNE

JUSTINBOGLE

JESSYNELSON COOPERWEBB

JUSTINHILL 12

JAKECANADA

ZACHBELL

JOEYSAVATGY 13

DUNLOP SPORTMAX Q3: HIGHER PERFORMANCE PLUS EXCELLENT VALUE The introduction of the Dunlop Sportmax® Q2® in 2009 set the

exclusive use at his STAR Motorcycle Riding Schools, which are

bar higher than ever for sportbike tires. This amazing tire

conducted at tracks all around the U.S. After experiencing how

immediately established an indisputable position as the

well the Q2 performed under such extreme sport conditions

sportbike tire of choice among riders in the know. Featuring a

Pridmore said, “I know Dunlop will make a better tire in the

racetrack-proven heritage second to none, the Sportmax Q2

coming years, but I honestly don’t know how it gets any better

cemented its credentials as a superior street-going tire that was

than the Q2 we now have.”

equally at home on the track. Publications such as Ultimate Motorcycling and Sport Rider magazine chose the Sportmax

Well, meet the all-new Sportmax Q3, the next-generation

Q2 as the best tire in comprehensive sport tire shootouts. No

successor to the highly praised Sportmax Q2. And in response

less an authority than Dunlop-sponsored former AMA Road

to musings about how the Q2 could be bettered, consider this:

Racing champion Jason Pridmore quickly adopted this tire for

Not only does the Sportmax Q3 deliver next-generation performance and incorporate Dunlop’s new Carbon Fiber Technology (CFT), it also represents an outstanding value, which makes it a winner twice over. Thanks to advances in the efficiency of Dunlop’s manufacturing technology and processes

CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE Q3 VIDEO

in Buffalo, NY, the Sportmax Q3 will carry a manufacturer’s suggested retail price identical to that of the Sportmax Q2. And that’s great news for sportbike enthusiasts who ride hard and also want to keep costs down as they rack up many pleasant miles enjoying the full capabilities of their bikes.

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A PATTERN OF SUCCESS The performance advantages with the Sportmax Q3 tie in directly to the success Dunlop has earned with the Sportmax® D211™ GP-A in AMA Pro Road Racing. Immediately obvious is the new tread pattern on the Q3, which is a planned outgrowth of the tread pattern found on the DOT-approved D211 GP-A race tire used in three classes of AMA Pro Road Racing. However, there’s a neat bit of design brilliance that makes the Sportmax Q3 tread pattern significantly superior for the variable conditions encountered in street applications.

Specifically, this new tread pattern still utilizes Dunlop’s famous cosecant curve, but this new rendition features fewer grooves that are longer in length. So even though these tires look closer akin to a GP-A or a racing slick than ever before, extensive track testing proves that these extended-length grooves provide the key for greatly enhanced wet-weather performance. These long grooves help route water away more effectively from the contact patch, and this efficient evacuation of water offers a gain in wet performance over the Q2.

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THE CARBON FIBER DIFFERENCE The Sportmax Q3 delivers impressive performance in dry conditions.

And this performance has taken a step forward in the Q3 thanks to the novel application of Dunlop’s new Carbon Fiber Technology (CFT), a carbon fiber reinforcement element in the tire sidewalls. As many people know, carbon fiber is a strong material composed mostly of carbon atoms. These carbon atoms are bonded together in crystals that are more or less aligned parallel to the long axis of the fiber, and this alignment creates a high strength-to-volume ratio.

The many attributes of carbon fiber—high stiffness, high tensile strength, low weight, high chemical resistance, high temperature tolerance and low thermal expansion—make it a great match for application in the Sportmax Q3. Extensive Dunlop testing shows that the Sportmax Q3 exhibits exceptional cornering stability especially at high lean angles, responsive and precise steering characteristics, and predictable and smooth transitional-steering performance for more confidence-inspiring handling.

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THE ROAD RACING ADVANTAGE The new Sportmax Q3 represents yet another direct benefit yielded from Dunlop’s AMA Pro Road Racing involvement. As the control tire supplier for AMA Pro Road Racing, Dunlop invested in new tireproducing machinery necessary to accommodate race tire production at Dunlop’s Buffalo, NY, manufacturing facility. These same high-tech machines are used to produce the all-new Q3 rear tire.

INTUITIVE RESPONSE PROFILE The new Sportmax Q3 is an extension of Dunlop’s highly successful Intuitive Response Profile (IRP) design. In general, IRP tires offer phenomenal steering and handling characteristics thanks to a taller profile along with sides that taper in more aggressively. Crosssectional analysis reveals this design creates a larger contact patch when cornering. Dunlop engineers closely evaluated the contact patch pressure distribution—especially at full lean angles—to help produce a tire capable of high lean angles and cornering speeds for great sportbike performance.

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MT TECHNOLOGY

MT TECHNOLOGY

LATERAL-GRIP COMPOUND LONG-WEARING COMPOUND

As with the Sportmax Q2 and many other Dunlop tires, the rear Sportmax Q3 also incorporates MT Multi-Tread™ technology in its design. All Dunlop tires with MT technology incorporate a tough, cool-running long-wearing compound in the center of the tread to provide enhanced straight-line stability and excellent traction under acceleration, plus long tread life. On the left and right sides of the tire face, lateral-grip compounds developed to enhance traction at moderate-to-maximum lean angles flank the longer-wearing center section.

LATERAL-GRIP COMPOUND

JOINTLESS BAND (JLB) ARAMID BELT

CONSTRUCTION also add to cornering stability, responsive handling, precise

construction design, Dunlop engineers worked to optimize tire

steering and predictable transitional steering feel the rider gets

carcass construction in the front and rear Sportmax Q3 tires. The

from the tire while cornering. The rear Sportmax Q3 features a

core goals focused on maintaining a very consistent contact

continuously wound Jointless Band (JLB) for consistent tire

patch that resisted the increased power, braking forces and

diameter in all operating conditions.

NYLON CARCASS PLY

cornering loads generated by modern 600cc and 1000cc highperformance motorcycles. The cut-breaker radial construction

Built on new-tech machinery and incorporating bright-think

of the front Sportmax Q3 parallels that of previous Dunlop

designs plus cutting-edge materials, the next-generation

designs, with two nylon carcass plies and two aramid reinforcing

Sportmax Q3 is truly a worthy successor to the highly successful

belts for increased cornering stability and enhanced braking at

Sportmax Q2. Boasting new, elevated levels of performance in

high loads, plus a sport-oriented carcass stiffness to enhance

wet and dry conditions on the street as well as at the track,

steering response.

the Sportmax Q3 establishes an entirely new benchmark for performance in sporting tires. However, the fact that

These constructions yield an optimum balance between a high

the Sportmax Q3 will have a manufacturer’s suggested retail

level of tire compliance for greater ride comfort and increased

price identical to the Sportmax Q2’s is truly stunning news. It all

carcass stiffness for enhanced tire stability and braking under

serves as a sparkling testimony of Dunlop’s commitment to

high loads. The improved carbon fiber-reinforced tire sidewalls

sportbike riders.

REAR TIRE CONSTRUCTION

Benefitting from the advancements made in Sportmax Q2

CARBON FIBER TECHNOLOGY 22

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AVAILABILITY The Sportmax Q3 will be available in the U.S. in the spring of 2013 and will be offered in these sizes:

FRONT 120/60ZR17 120/70ZR17

REAR 160/60ZR17 180/55ZR17 190/50ZR17 190/55ZR17 200/50ZR17 240/40ZR18

CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE Q3 WEB SITE

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DON’T TAKE DUNLOP’S WORD FOR IT HERE’S WHAT THE MEDIA HAD TO SAY AFTER ATTENDING THE SPORTMAX Q3 LAUNCH AT THE DUNLOP PROVING GROUNDS. Dunlop introduced the all-new Sportmax Q3 with Carbon Fiber Technology to the motorcycle media at its Dunlop Proving Grounds in Huntsville, AL, in early June. After two days of riding on the test track, including the opportunity to test the new Q3 on Dunlop’s wet-test track, the editors were not shy about their praise for the new Sportmax Q3. Here’s a few quotes from their reviews. You can also watch this video to hear what they had to say.

CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE VIDEO

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it was as if I could have “Even in the almost-360-degree final turn, ridden by itself.” let go of the bars and the bike would have

“I was really hammering the rear tire, but it just held its own and kept the bike moving forward without any real squatting or moving around. You will be surprised at how much the slightly altered rear-tire profile of the new Q3 has to do with how your bike will enter and exit a corner.”

“Sharper and quicker handling, with bette r stability under braking and acceleration, the Q3 offers up a smoother and more compliant ride. Out of the tight corne rs you can really give it the berries and the bike will go forward as planned. It is that much easier to steer the bike with the rear wheel through the last part of the corner by using the throttle.”

the high-speed section; again the feedback was exceptional with very little movement or deflection. ”

the new Q3 is the same as the older Q2.”

—CYCLE NEWS

“Riding hard on the street, you appreciate that the Q3 still has the Dunlop feedback we expect—there simply isn’t a street tire out there that has more feel.”

“… we can say from our day spent on the new Q3 that Dunlop has raised

intended apex with impressive precision and neutrality. Even edge grip with the Q3 was slightly improved, and the Q3’s slides

the bar once again. The competition has some serious work to do.”

seemed smoother and more controlled”

“In the Sportmax Q2, Dunlop already had a winne of improving the proven winner … blending eleme

r … so they set about the unenviable task nts from the Q2 and GP-A tires to produce

the Q3, a tire which significantly raises the sport tire bar with greater corner stability, more precise control, improved ride quality and surprising wet weather performance.”

“The Q3 balances the bike better and maint ains its structure even in extreme conditions; and in the wet, the grip is phenomenal.”

—ULTIMATE MOTORCYCLING

“You’d be hard pressed to find a tire that offers a better compromise between that solid race-tire feel and everyday comfort over chop and rough pavement.”

ycle “… the bottom line is the tires will let you put the motorc have anywhere on the track with laser-like precision. You just there.” arrive will it quickly to get your brain acclimated to how

“Dunlop’s latest Sportmax gives more authentic track-grade performance than any other street tire we know of.”

“Outright grip continues to be astounding for a street tire.” “… if you’re seeking a versatile high-performance sport tire, the Q3 is it.”

—MOTORCYCLEUSA.COM 28

“The Q3 is a win

ner.”

—SUPERBIKEPLANET.COM

“I did, however, feel a stability improvement

“… the Dunlop’s warm up so quickly that it’s easy to pick up the pace by the second lap or after a few minutes of riding.”

“… the Q3 would simply slam to full lean immediately carve toward your

and

—SPORTRIDER.COM “The new Sportmax Q3 has all the makings for a proper street/track-day tire and the introduction of carbon fiber into the design is the real game changer. Even better is that the price for

“I also found the new Q3 front to work very well in

“The biggest advantage with the new Q3 is stabi lity … the Q3 is noticeably more stable under hard braki ng … that also translated to easier steering under trail brakin g into the corner.”

under hard straight-line braking and during trail-b

raking into turns.”

—CYCLEWORLD.COM

“It’s difficult not to be anything less than highl y impressed with the Dunlop Q3. It delivers confidenceinspiring grip just shy of a race tire. For the rider looking for a highperformance street tire that will also handle hard lapping in a fast group at your next track day, look no further.”

“… I’m happy to report that CFT is more than just marketing fluff—these tires deliver.”

— MOTORCYCLE.COM 29

KEVIN SCHWANTZ

AT THE DUNLOP PROVING GROUNDS World Grand Prix Champion Kevin Schwantz attended the Dunlop Sportmax Q3 tire launch at the Dunlop Proving Grounds, and sampled both the road course as well as the off-road and motocross courses. His conclusion? “This place is really special,” said Kevin. “It’s easy to see the advantage Dunlop has with manufacturing here in the U.S. and development here as well.”

Schwantz does his best “monkeynaut” impression at the United States Space and Rocket Center.

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DUNLOP CLAIMS THREE SUPERCROSS TITLES IN 2013 After 17 exciting stops all throughout the country, the 2013

race in Seattle, Villopoto played cat and mouse with Team

Monster Energy Supercross, an FIM World Championship

Honda Muscle Milk’s Justin Barcia, and although inching close

series, came to a dramatic close in May at Sam Boyd Stadium,

multiple times he was not able to top the pace of the 450 class

and three Dunlop-supported riders were crowned champions.

rookie. Heading into Salt Lake City, Villopoto had a 25-point

Monster Energy Kawasaki’s Ryan Villopoto had already

lead over second, so in order to keep their championship

wrapped up his third consecutive 450 class championship the

hopes alive, both Rockstar Suzuki’s Davi Millsaps and Red Bull

week prior in Salt Lake City, adding his name to the record book

KTM’s Ryan Dungey would need to beat him. After a hard

as one of the most successful riders in the sport’s 40-year

fought battle in the main event, Villopoto was victorious—his

history. Only three other riders, including Bob Hannah, Jeremy

10th win of the season aboard his Dunlop-equipped KXF450—

McGrath and Ricky Carmichael, have been able to achieve the

and wrapped up the 2013 title with one round remaining.

same success of three back-to-back championships.

Taking second place in the overall standings was Millsaps in In the 250 class, it was Red Bull KTM’s Ken Roczen who

his career-best season. After a winless two seasons racing on

emerged as the Western Regional Champion, and GEICO

a competing brand of tires, Millsaps made the switch to

Honda’s Wil Hahn who secured the Eastern Regional title.

Dunlops for 2013 and was competitive from the beginning. He grabbed two victories and nine additional podium finishes

Dunlop’s domination in performance of this open-tire series

throughout the 17-race series. It was a remarkable feat for

was impressive: Eight of the top 10 riders in the 450

someone who was suffering from a severe knee injury that

Supercross class rode on Dunlop Geomax tires, and all of the

required surgery immediately after the end of the season.

top 10 riders in both the 250 East and West classes also rolled through the series on Dunlop Geomax tires.

With a mere one point separating him from second, it was Dungey who rounded out the overall podium in third. Following

Despite struggles in the opening segment of the season,

an incredible win in Minneapolis, Dungey continued to post

Villopoto returned to dominant fashion and continued to prove

consistent results, landing on the podium at the final two

time and time again that he was the guy to beat. At his home

rounds with 3-2 finishes.

WILHAHN 32

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RYANVILLOPOTO 34

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DUNLOP WOULD LIKE TO CONGRATULATE RYAN VILLOPOTO, WIL HAHN AND KEN ROCZEN ON THEIR CHAMPIONSHIPS, AS WELL AS THE REST OF THE DUNLOP RIDERS WHO HAD A SUCCESSFUL SEASON. Anticipation was high when two-time 250 East Champion and

championship efforts. As the race came to a close, however,

2012 Monster Cup winner Justin Barcia joined the 450 class

Roczen was able to grab second place, giving him the points

full-time in 2013, and he quickly proved that he had the speed

lead and earning his first AMA Supercross title.

to run up front with the leaders. In what seemed like a repeat of his first win at Chase Field, Barcia put together an

With 148 points, Troy Lee Designs/Lucas Oil/ Honda’s Cole

exceptional race in Seattle despite muddy conditions,

Seely took third overall in the standings with podium

grabbing the holeshot and leading wire-to-wire to capture his

appearances at five of the nine races. Rockstar Suzuki’s Jason

second career 450-class victory. Barcia finished fourth overall

Anderson clinched his first career victory at round eight and

in the championship with 277 points, followed by TwoTwo

completed the season in fourth overall with 139 points,

Motorsports’ Chad Reed in fifth with 239 points.

followed by Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki’s Martin Davalos with 134 points.

After an eight-week hiatus, the 250 West Supercross class resumed at Seattle’s Century Link Field and Red Bull KTM’s

The 250 East class returned to battle for the final race of their

Ken Roczen nailed down his third win of the season, besting

nine round circuit in Las Vegas, and it was Monster Energy Pro

GEICO Honda’s Eli Tomac and Zach Osborne who finished 2-3

Circuit Kawasaki fill-in rider and three-time Arenacross

respectively on the podium. It was a shocking turn of events

Champion Tyler Bowers who topped the podium with an

for the title contenders in Salt Lake City the following weekend

impressive performance. Bowers took the front position

when Roczen did not qualify for the main event after crashes

quickly after the start and never looked back, stretching a nice

in his heat and the LCQ, giving Tomac the perfect opportunity

lead between himself and the rest of the field. The tenacious

to capitalize and take over the points lead. However, Tomac

Red Bull KTM Frenchman Marvin Musquin managed to close

struggled with the course and could only manage a sixth place

within a few seconds of Bowers on the final lap, but it wasn’t

finish. The championship came down to Las Vegas with a

enough and he ultimately finished second in the race and the

mere five points separating the two. With Tomac in the lead at

championship. Despite riding with a broken hand he sustained

the midway point and Roczen a few positions back, it looked

in practice, Wil Hahn finished third overall in the main event,

as if the GIECO Honda rider would be able to repeat his 2012

which was enough for him to wrap up his first professional title by three points. It was a fairytale season for Hahn, who finished on the podium in every race and held the points lead the majority of the season. Rockstar Suzuki’s Blake Wharton rounded out the championship podium in third, with four podiums and one race win under his belt.

Dunlop would like to congratulate Ryan Villopoto, Wil Hahn and Ken Roczen on their championships, as well as the rest of the Dunlop riders who had a successful season.

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KENROCZEN 37

450 SUPERCROSS CLASS CHAMPIONSHIP POINTS (after 17 of 17 rounds) 1. Ryan Villopoto 371 (Dunlop) 2. Davi Millsaps 338 (Dunlop) 3. Ryan Dungey 337 (Dunlop) 4. Justin Barcia 277 (Dunlop) 5. Chad Reed 239 (Dunlop) 6. Trey Canard 221 (Dunlop) 7. Andrew Short 217 8. Justin Brayton 190 9. Broc Tickle 176 (Dunlop) 10. James Stewart 174 (Dunlop) 250 SUPERCROSS WEST CLASS CHAMPIONSHIP POINTS (after 9 of 9 rounds) 1. Ken Roczen 185 (Dunlop) 2. Eli Tomac 183 (Dunlop) 3. Cole Seely 148 (Dunlop) 4. Jason Anderson 139 (Dunlop) 5. Martin Davalos 134 (Dunlop) 6. Kyle Cunningham 114 (Dunlop) 7. Zach Osborne 112 (Dunlop) 8. Tyla Rattray 99 (Dunlop) 9. Joey Savatgy 98 (Dunlop) 10. Malcolm Stewart 88 (Dunlop) 250 SUPERCROSS EAST CLASS CHAMPIONSHIP POINTS (after 9 of 9 rounds) 1. Wil Hahn 198 (Dunlop) 2. Marvin Musquin 195 (Dunlop) 3. Blake Wharton 171 (Dunlop) 4. Vince Friese 118 (Dunlop) 5. Gavin Faith 116 (Dunlop) 6. Cole Thompson 96 (Dunlop) 7. Dean Wilson 87 (Dunlop) 8. Lance Vincent 80 (Dunlop) 9. Kyle Peters 78 (Dunlop) 10. AJ Catanzaro 73 (Dunlop) 38

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TEAM D RIDERS PREPARE FOR LORETTA LYNN’S The 2013 Red Bull AMA Amateur National Motocross Championship is the world’s largest and most prestigious amateur motocross racing program, and it culminates on July 29 through August 3 at the Loretta Lynn Ranch in Hurricane Mills, TN. This is the 32nd year the championship finals have taken place at Loretta’s.

The national amateur qualifying program consists of 50 Area Qualifiers from February through May, and 12 Regional Championships that take place in June at select motocross facilities across the country. The qualifying system culminates in the National Final hosted annually since 1982 at the home of country music star Loretta Lynn. Nearly 20,000 racers attempt to qualify in 36 classes for the 1,446 available positions at the National. Christened “The World’s Greatest Motocross Vacation,” Loretta’s has served as a launch pad for some of the biggest names in professional Motocross and Supercross, including Ricky Carmichael, James Stewart, Ryan Villopoto, Ryan Dungey, Justin Barcia, Eli Tomac, Blake Baggett and many more.

This year—for the seventh consecutive season—Team Dunlop riders have been on the qualifying path to Loretta’s. Here’s where they stand:

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PIERCE BROWN Team D supported Pierce Brown landed himself some impressive finishes at his Loretta Lynn Regional Qualifier at The Ranch. Brown managed to stay inside of the top five in the talented 85 (9-11) ranks over the weekend, beginning things with a fifth place overall score

CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE TEAM D WEB SITE

in the 85 (9-11) class. Pierce blasted out in the 85 (9-11) Limited division, ripping his way to fourth overall on his #63 Dunlop backed Yamaha ride. Brown’s top five finishes were more than enough to secure his position on the line this summer when racing meets the Tennessee temperatures and heats up in August.

THIS YEAR—FOR THE SEVENTH CONSECUTIVE SEASON— TEAM DUNLOP RIDERS HAVE BEEN ON THE QUALIFYING PATH TO LORETTA’S. HERE’S WHERE THEY STAND:

AMATEUR AND YOUTH REGIONAL - 5/25/2013 - REGIONAL - THE RANCH - YOUTH & AMATEUR Class

Finish

Brand

Racing Number

85 (9-11) Limited

4

Yamaha

63

85 (9-11)

5

Yamaha

63

MITCHELL HARRISON

HANNAH HODGES

Mitchell Harrison got his ticket to the Ranch aboard his Team D sponsored Farren Racing

Hannah Hodges had a great ride at the Youth Regional held at Sunday Creek

Suzuki's. Harrison took on the stiff Super Mini competition in the South Central Regional

on her Team D-sponsored Farren Racing Mav TV Suzukis. The number 172

at Golden Pine MX in Prentiss Mississippi, laying waste to the competition with 6 out of

of Hodges stayed true to her usual winning ways, battling and breaking into

6 Moto wins in Super Mini 1 (12-15) and Super Mini 2 (13-16) classes on the number 29

the top spot overall in the Girls (12-16) class, chalking up yet another major

machine. Mitchell's wins earned him a spot at the National and let everyone in the Super

win for Team D. Expect Hodges to be at another regional before all is said

Mini ranks know he is here to compete for that top spot in the premier mini bike class.

and done. She has been mixing it up quite a bit with the boys in the Super Mini class as well as the older girls in the Women (14+) class lately, so expect

Class

Finish

Brand

Racing Number

to see her on another gate near you before bursting onto the scene at

Super Mini 1 (12-15)

1

Suzuki

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Loretta’s to compete for titles once again this summer.

Super Mini 2 (13-16)

1

Suzuki

29

YOUTH REGIONAL - 5/24/2013 - REGIONAL - SUNDAY CREEK - YOUTH Class

Finish

Brand

Racing Number

Girls (12-16)

1

Suzuki

172

JORDAN BAILEY

JETT REYNOLDS

Loretta Lynn Champion Jordan Bailey is on his way back to Loretta’s, this time in the Mini

Flying Jett Reynolds put in some amazing motos at the Youth Regional at The Ranch. The

Sr. (12-14) and Mini Sr. (12-14) Limited classes. Bailey made his way to two podium

number 79 of Jett Reynolds could be seen all weekend ripping around near the front of

finishes at the Youth Regional at Sunday Creek on his Team D-backed KTM. Starting with

whatever class he was competing in at the time. Jett laid the foundation with a strong third

a third overall finish in Mini Sr. (12-14), Bailey battled hard in the Mini Sr. (12-14) Limited

place overall in the 65 (7-9) Limited class on his Team D-supported Cobra 65. Accustomed

class for the win, however came up just short, finishing the weekend in the second overall.

to winning, Jett’s third on the 65 was not enough for him, coming out with a vengeance in

Given Bailey’s history at Loretta’s and his recent qualifying scores, expect him to come out

the 51 (7-8) Limited class and shredding through the riders, making his way to take first

strong and gun for the top spot this summer in Hurricane Mills.

overall for the day, entering Loretta’s as a championship favorite in the class, given his raw speed and recent race results on the Dunlop-backed Cobra 50.

YOUTH REGIONAL - 5/24/2013 - REGIONAL - SUNDAY CREEK - YOUTH

42

Class

Finish

Brand

Racing Number

AMATEUR AND YOUTH REGIONAL - 5/25/2013 - REGIONAL - THE RANCH - YOUTH & AMATEUR

Mini Sr. (12-14) Limited

2

KTM

133

Class

Finish

Brand

Racing Number

Mini Sr. (12-14)

3

KTM

133

51 (7-8) Limited

1

Cobra

79

65 (7-9) Limited

3

Cobra

79

43

MICHAEL MOSIMAN

RYDER DIFRANCESCO

The number 342 Team D-backed Suzuki of Michael Mosiman has shown amazing speed

Ryder DiFrancesco is on his way back to Loretta Lynn’s Dude Ranch again, racing in the

lately in the Mini Sr. and Super Mini divisions, continuing his streak at the Loretta Lynn

the (7-8) age group. Racing at The Ranch for his Loretta Lynn’s Regional, two-time 51 (4-

Youth Regional at The Ranch. Only finishing off the podium in one class, a fourth in Mini

6) class champion and Team D-sponsored DiFrancesco displayed great speed and

Sr. (12-14) Limited, Mosiman got his Dunlop tires spinning at the Ranch, working into the

intensity on his way to earning another chance to line up at Loretta’s. DiFrancesco’s fourth

top three twice more, qualifying for three classes on the day. With third place overall

overall came after a very impressive second-place moto one finish behind Jett Reynolds.

finishes in the Mini Sr. (12-14) and Super Mini 1 (12-15) class, Mosiman secured his right

Entering the (7-8) ranks as the young underdog, Dunlop’s Ryder can’t be counted out as

to one of the spots on the prestigious gates in whichever classes he chooses to compete

a contender. If he doesn’t take the top spot at The Ranch this summer, you can bet he will

in. Mosiman has taken some very impressive finishes in 2013 so far, and doesn’t appear

be pushing whoever does to their limits.

to be slowing down anytime soon.

AMATEUR AND YOUTH REGIONAL - 5/25/2013 - REGIONAL - THE RANCH - YOUTH & AMATEUR AMATEUR AND YOUTH REGIONAL - 5/25/2013 - REGIONAL - THE RANCH - YOUTH & AMATEUR Class

Finish

Brand

Racing Number

Mini Sr. (12-14) Limited

4

Suzuki

342

Mini Sr. (12-14)

3

Suzuki

342

Super Mini 1 (12-15)

3

Suzuki

342

Class

Finish

Brand

Racing Number

51 (7-8) Limited

4

Cobra

199

PARKER MASHBURN

SEAN CANTRELL

KTM Orange Brigade’s Parker Mashburn is headed to Tennessee! Team D-supported

Sean Cantrell shredded through the competition at the Youth Regional at The

Mashburn rocked the Sunday Creek Youth Regional, earning podium finishes in each of

Ranch. Cantrell rode the Dunlop tires off his Monster Energy-backed Team

his classes over the weekend, qualifying inside the upper echelon of the 85 (9-11) class.

Green KX85, putting in amazing motos along the way. Sean scored first place

Beginning with a third place overall score in the 85 (9-11) class, Mashburn improved upon

overall in all four of the classes he attempted to qualify in for Loretta’s.

that finish with a strong second, narrowly missing out on the overall in the 85 (9-11) Limited

Winning seven of eight motos throughout the weekend, Cantrell dominated

class. Parker’s awesome Loretta Lynn Qualifying effort as well as a great 2013 season so

at The Ranch, winning the premier 85 divisions. The number 37 bike of Sean

far has the number 223 machine coming into Loretta Lynn’s hot.

Cantrell will be one to watch when the Mini Sr (12-14) and Super Mini classes hit the track at Loretta Lynn’s Dude Ranch in Hurricane Mills.

YOUTH REGIONAL - 5/24/2013 - REGIONAL - SUNDAY CREEK - YOUTH Class

Finish

Brand

Racing Number

AMATEUR AND YOUTH REGIONAL - 5/25/2013 - REGIONAL - THE RANCH - YOUTH & AMATEUR

85 (9-11) Limited

2

KTM

223

Class

Finish

Brand

Racing Number

85 (9-11)

3

KTM

223

Mini Sr. (12-14) Limited

1

Kawasaki

37

Mini Sr. (12-14)

1

Kawasaki

37

Super Mini 1 (12-15)

1

Kawasaki

37

Super Mini 2 (13-16)

1

Kawasaki

37

GAGE LINVILLE

LANCE KOBUSCH

Team D’s Gage Linville is on the move, qualifying for Loretta Lynn’s through the Sunday

Competing in the Youth Regional at Sunday Creek was Team D’s Lance Kobusch, who is

Creek Youth Regional with great results. Contesting the 65 (7-9) Limited and 65 (7-11)

taking the 85 (9-11) class by storm. Kobusch put it to the (9-11) competition, ripping out

classes, Linville took the 65 classes by storm, starting his Loretta Lynn title run with a

of the start gate and working his way to two overall wins in the 85 (9-11) Limited and 85

fourth overall in the (7-11) division. Linville found his way back to the top, clawing through

(9-11) classes. Kobusch’s race results from Sunday Creek were all he needed to lock down

the competition and earning first place overall in the 65 (7-9) Limited class, notching

his position on the roster of the (9-11) class in Hurricane Mills, TN, earning himself another

another major win along the way to Loretta Lynn’s.

ticket to battle for the coveted Loretta Lynn’s Amateur National title against the best of the best in his division.

YOUTH REGIONAL - 5/24/2013 - REGIONAL - SUNDAY CREEK - YOUTH

44

Class

Finish

Brand

Racing Number

YOUTH REGIONAL - 5/24/2013 - REGIONAL - SUNDAY CREEK - YOUTH

65 (7-9) Limited

1

Cobra

402

Class

Finish

Brand

Racing Number

65 (7-11)

4

KTM

402

85 (9-11) Limited

1

Kawasaki

99

85 (9-11)

1

Kawasaki

99

45

TANNER STACK

CHASE SEXTON

Team Dunlop amateur rider Tanner Stack earned his ticket back to Loretta Lynn’s Ranch in

Team D’s Chase Sexton was on the gas during the Youth Regional Sunday Creek, landing

2013. Stack lined up in the Mini Sr. and Super Mini classes at the Youth Regional held at

himself some great finishes along the way. Sexton got the ball rolling with second overall

Sunday Creek. Stack began with a fourth place overall finish in the Mini Sr. (12-14) Limited

in the Mini Sr. (12-14) division, railing around the competition on the Sunday Creek track.

division. Stack backed these initial qualifying races with three additional podium finishes,

Chase came prepared for battle during the Mini Sr. (12-14) Limited class with no plans of

including a huge first place overall in the Mini Sr. (12-14) class as well as a pair of second-

backing down. Earning the first-place overall spot on the weekend, Sexton put his Team

place finishes in Super Mini 1 (12-15) and Super Mini 2 (13-16). Stack piloted the number

D-supported number 486 machine on the short list of the nations top rides in his respective

382 machine to a string of great rides, securing his place once again at Loretta’s. After great

class heading into Loretta Lynn’s.

success during 2013 thus far, 2013 seems to hold no limits for Team D’s Stack.

YOUTH REGIONAL - 5/24/2013 - REGIONAL - SUNDAY CREEK - YOUTH YOUTH REGIONAL - 5/24/2013 - REGIONAL - SUNDAY CREEK - YOUTH

Class

Finish

Brand

Racing Number

Class

Finish

Brand Racing Number

Mini Sr. (12-14) Limited

1

Yamaha

486

Mini Sr. (12-14) Limited

4

Kawasaki

382

Mini Sr. (12-14)

2

Yamaha

486

Mini Sr. (12-14)

1

Kawasaki

382

Super Mini 1 (12-15)

12

Yamaha

486

Super Mini 1 (12-15)

2

Kawasaki

382

Super Mini 2 (13-16)

2

Kawasaki

382

STILEZ ROBERTSON

AUSTIN FORKNER

The 85 (9-11) classes saw some great racing at the Youth Regional going on at The Ranch.

Team D’s Austin Forkner has been on fire in 2013 and taking the Super Mini

Stilez Robertson worked through the pack, finding his way to two second place overall

classes by storm. Other than dealing with a minor injury after the Spring Nationals,

finishes in the 85 (9-11) Limited and 85 (9-11) divisions, finishing just second to fellow

Forkner has obviously been working very hard in his off time. Competing at

Team Dunlop athlete Garrett Marchbanks, who took the top spots on the podium.

Sunday Creek for the Youth Regional, Austin Forkner wanted nothing less than the

Robertson made all of the necessary moves at The Ranch, getting another pass to Loretta

number one spot, earning wins in both the Super Mini 1 (12-15) and Super Mini 2

Lynn’s for the national. After great regional qualifying rides, look for the number 325 to

(13-16) classes over the weekend. Coming wide-open into the extreme summer

make a charge for the title at the Dude Ranch this summer.

heat at Loretta Lynn’s as a championship contender, Forkner’s first place finishes put him in the spotlight and all eyes will be on him as he fights to take over the

AMATEUR AND YOUTH REGIONAL - 5/25/2013 - REGIONAL - THE RANCH - YOUTH & AMATEUR

Super Mini class. Forkner’s fitness and ability to finesse the bike is like no other’s

Class

and his Loretta Lynn’s effort for 2013 appears to be on the right track.

Finish

Brand

Racing Number

85 (9-11) Limited

2

Kawasaki

325

85 (9-11)

2

Kawasaki

325

YOUTH REGIONAL - 5/24/2013 - REGIONAL - SUNDAY CREEK - YOUTH Class

Finish

Brand

Racing Number

Super Mini 1 (12-15)

1

Kawasak

214

Super Mini 2 (13-16)

1

Kawasaki

214

CARSON MUMFORD

GARRETT MARCHBANKS

Team D’s Carson Mumford qualified for Loretta Lynn’s at the Youth Regional at The Ranch.

Garrett Marchbanks logged some great motos over the weekend on his number 82 machine

Mumford’s pair of top-five finishes were all that he needed to solidify his spot The Ranch

and is qualified again for Loretta Lynn’s. Marchbanks proved he is in it to win it this summer

on his Team D-backed ride. In Mumford’s first full season aboard the 85 machine, his

in the 85 (9-11) classes. Garrett’s successes in the 85 (9-11) Limited and 85 (9-11) classes

results in the 85 (9-11) classes have been very solid. With the speed and raw talent on the

added his name to the short, talented list of athletes fighting for the 85 (9-11) titles this

bike, combined with great support, the sky is the limit for Mumford in 2013.

August. Marchbanks pair of first-place overall finishes certainly put him on everyone’s radar in these classes. 2013 looks to be an exciting one in the (9-11) ranks, and Marchbanks will

46

AMATEUR AND YOUTH REGIONAL - 5/25/2013 - REGIONAL - THE RANCH - YOUTH & AMATEUR

be there all the way fighting for his piece of the pie when the gate drops at Loretta’s

Class

Finish

Brand

Racing Number

this summer.

85 (9-11) Limited

5

Kawasaki

122

85 (9-11)

4

Kawasaki

122

AMATEUR AND YOUTH REGIONAL - 5/25/2013 - REGIONAL - THE RANCH - YOUTH & AMATEUR Class

Finish

Brand

Racing Number

85 (9-11) Limited

1

Kawasaki

82

85 (9-11)

1

Kawasaki

82

47

AT81F

AT81 Rear

AT81 Desert RC

INTRODUCING THE

GEOMAX AT81/AT81 DESERT RC With the development of the Geomax® line of premium off-

offer an exceptional overall choice. The AT81 and AT81 Desert

road tires—the MX71™, MX51™, MX31™ and MX11™—

RC—which replace the D952 and D739AT in Dunlop’s off-road

Dunlop has placed a hammerlock on success at the highest

lineup—are available in a wide range of sizing options.

levels of racing in the dirt by winning every AMA Supercross and AMA Motocross championship since 2010. Now, that

Developed at the Dunlop Proving Grounds in Huntsville, AL,

championship experience and development expertise has

as well as off-road riding areas and races across the country,

been rolled into the next generation of off-road tires: the all-

the AT81 series benefited from input by top national Dunlop-

new Geomax AT81 and Geomax AT81 Desert RC.

sponsored off-road racers. And as soon as the standardproduction Geomax AT81 tires became available mid-season

Dunlop ha:s had much success in off-road racing, including

2013, top-level Grand National Cross Country racers put them

winning the last 16 Baja 1000 races, dozens more desert

to work. As of this writing, Factory FMF/KTM Off-Road Racing

championships, and titles in both GNCC and WORCS

Team rider Kailub Russell just won his second consecutive

competition. These additions to the Geomax family offer even

race aboard the AT81, heading up a podium sweep for the

more all-around performance, plus a higher level of

new Dunlop Geomax AT81 tires at the Snowshoe Mountain

ruggedness than Dunlop’s current D952 and D739AT tires—

GNCC. In National Enduro competition, Russell’s teammate

just the ticket for the demanding, wide-ranging terrain

Charlie Mullins won the Foggy Mountain National Enduro and

encountered in off-road and desert riding.

headed up another podium sweep for the new Dunlop Geomax AT81.

Unlike motocross, where track conditions remain fairly consistent—allowing riders to choose hard, intermediate or

Both winners offered up high praises for the newly released

soft-terrain tires to suit conditions—off-road riders and racers

stock Geomax AT81 tires. Russell said, “The AT81 tires are

can encounter wildly varying terrain over the course of a race

really impressive in the rocks and roots. They held up great.”

or a day out riding with friends. It is not unusual at all to

48

encounter hard-packed fire roads, sand, water crossings, mud

Mullins said, “The AT81 worked really good and kept traction

and loam all in a day’s ride, and that’s where the new AT81 tires

the whole race.”

49

To offer the kind of extra-rugged construction needed for long offroad rides or races, the carcass design of the rear Geomax AT81 features two nylon plies, while the Geomax AT81 Desert RC incorporates four nylon plies for added toughness. The AT81 rear block shape and distribution as well as the newly engineered tread knobs—called DIRTuitive Grip Design (DGD)—feature a C-cut shoulder block shape that helps the tire penetrate down through the surface dirt for extra traction, while the lateral grooves on the shoulder knobs provide additional biting edges. These lateral grooves also allow the knobs to be more flexible without surrendering strength, and this design also helps with impact absorption. The center blocks are arranged in-line to provide a larger contact patch to help maximum traction, and a newly formulated tire compound offers high wear resistance. Between the center blocks is Dunlop’s familiar plush pad recess design, which enhances compliance characteristics for optimal bump absorption and ride comfort.

The AT81 front tire design was inspired by the highly popular D756F, and modernized to incorporate the DIRTuitive Grip Design lateral grooves on the shoulder knobs that provide additional biting edges while also adding flexibility and impact-absorbing qualities. The front tire construction includes two plies of nylon wrapped with a third ply of polyester; together they form a strong base for the many varied obstacles an off-road tire will encounter. Like the AT81 rear, the front tire incorporates Dunlop’s plush pad design in the areas between the center tread blocks for enhanced compliance characteristics that yield a more comfortable ride.

In total, all of these features provide a balanced carcass tension that allows the Geomax AT81 to conform better to changing ground conditions that adds up to a new level of performance for off-road and desert riding. By incorporating Dunlop’s latest in off-road tire design elements, the new Geomax AT81 and Geomax AT81 Desert RC deliver championship-level performance that parallels the phenomenal success Dunlop has earned for years in AMA Supercross and Motocross racing, and adds to the winning formula Dunlop has established in virtually every form of off-road competition.

50

51

MX UPDATE

52

53

RYANVILLOPOTO 54

55

REIGNING CHAMPION RYAN DUNGEY IS KNOWN FOR HIS CONSISTENCY, AND THIS SEASON IS NO DIFFERENT. After a long 17 weekends of stadiums packed full of fans all

With seven of 12 rounds completed, Monster Energy

across the country, riders are given a one-week break to

Kawasaki’s Ryan Villopoto has set the pace by winning all but

change gears and prepare for the summer’s grueling 12 race

a few of the motos and carving out a significant

motocross series. The Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship,

championship lead. That lead was assisted by KTM rival Ryan

sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing is a true test of a rider’s

Dungey’s departure from the first moto at RedBud with a

physical and mental toughness, as they are forced to battle

mechanical issue. James Steward also came into form as the

through two 30-minute plus two-lap motos to determine the

season progressed, culminating with a second overall at

winner. The 2013 season can be argued as one of the toughest

RedBud. In the 250 class, Red Bull KTM’s Ken Roczen has

of all time, in both classes. With six riders in the 450 class

continued to impress, leading the 250 point’s chase over

having national championships and the likes of premier class

GEICO Honda’s Eli Tomac and his KTM teammate Marvin

rookie Justin Barcia, everyone has their work cut out for them.

Musquin. In the WMX class, Jessica Patterson took the championship over Team Honda Muscle Milk’s Sayaka

It has been a continuous battle in the 250 class, with former

Kaneshiro at the final round.

champion Blake Baggett facing Supercross champions Ken Roczen and Eli Tomac, along with the French World Champ

Despite missing the entire 2012 MX season due to injury, the

Marvin Musquin and many up-and-comers. Dunlop-supported

2011 champion Ryan Villopoto wasted no time picking up

riders have proven superior by sweeping the top ten in the

where he left off in Supercross, sweeping both motos at the

250 class, and currently have 8 of the top ten positions in the

45th Hangtown Motocross Classic in Sacramento, CA. After

450 championship.

battling with Team Honda Muscle Milk’s Justin Barcia and

RYANDUNGEY 56

57

TREYCANARD

Red Bull KTM’s Ryan Dungey throughout the majority of both

consistency and this season is no different. He has appeared

30-minute plus-two lap races at Thunder Valley, Villopoto

on the podium at every round, securing his first victory at

again came out on top in both motos, delivering a powerful

Muddy Creek Raceway. At the season opener, Dungey put

1-1 performance. At the inaugural Built Ford Tough

together a valiant effort but was unable to match the speed

Tennessee National, Villopoto went on to win the first moto,

of Villopoto, ultimately finishing second overall for the day

but not without contention from Barcia, who kept him honest

with a pair of second place finishes. Dungey, a three-time

much of the race. Unfortunately, Villopoto was unable to

winner at the Thunder Valley National, finished second overall

replicate his performance in the second moto, succumbing

with 2-2 marks. At round three, Dungey went on to claim his

to the track multiple times before taking the checkered flag in

first overall win of the season after his moto 2 win, putting an

fourth. He came in third with his 1-4 score and was able to

end to Villopoto’s five-moto win streak.

maintain the 450 class points lead. At round four in Pennsylvania the 3-time Supercross champion returned to

At the High-Point National, Villopoto again won both motos for

his winning ways, securing his third victory of the season

the overall win with Dungey again finishing second. At Budds

with two stellar rides aboard his Dunlop-backed KXF450.

Creek, the two swapped wins, with Dungey coming out on top

Reigning champion Ryan Dungey is known for his

with the overall win. At Southwick, Dungey won the first moto,

JUSTINBARCIA 58

59

KENROCZEN 60

61

MARVINMUSQUIN

BLAKEBAGGETT 62

ELITOMAC 63

WITH THE 250 CLASS STACKED FULL OF TALENTED RIDERS, EACH WEEKEND HAS SHOWCASED HEATED BATTLES THROUGHOUT BOTH MOTOS. but Villopoto could only manage a fourth—KTM’s Andrew Short

With the 250 class stacked full of talented riders, each

finished second with Barcia in third. Villopoto struck back in the

weekend has showcased heated battles throughout both

second moto with a win, but it wasn’t enough to keep Dungey

motos. Newly crowned 250 SX West Champion Ken Roczen

from taking the overall. It all went bad for Dungey at RedBud

has managed to maintain his points lead since seizing the

when a mechanical took him out of the first moto. A third in the

overall win at Hangtown. After Roczen posted the overall win

second moto gave him tenth overall, but Villopoto’s sweep

at RedBud over second-place Tomac, Roczen leads the

gave him a whopping 41-point lead in the championship over

overall standings by a slim seven-point margin over GEICO

Dungey with Barcia in third.

Honda’s Eli Tomac. Roczen’s teammate Marvin Musquin is currently third in points following by defending champ Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki’s Blake Baggett.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE MOTOCROSS IMAGES

450 CLASS CHAMPIONSHIP POINTS (after 7 of 12 rounds)

64

250 CLASS CHAMPIONSHIP POINTS (after 7 of 12 rounds)

WMX CHAMPIONSHIP POINTS (after 3 of 3 rounds)

1. Ryan Villopoto 333 (Dunlop)

1. Ken Roczen 312 (Dunlop)

1. Jessica Patterson 122 (Dunlop)

2. Ryan Dungey 291 (Dunlop)

2. Eli Tomac 305 (Dunlop)

2. Sayaka Kaneshiro 120 (Dunlop)

3. Justin Barcia 249 (Dunlop)

3. Marvin Musquin 260 (Dunlop)

3. Taylor Higgins 100 (Dunlop)

4. Trey Canard 200 (Dunlop)

4. Blake Baggett 247 (Dunlop)

4. Mackenzie Tricker 99

5. James Stewart 184 (Dunlop)

5. Zach Osborne 212 (Dunlop)

5. Sara Pettersson 94 (Dunlop)

6. Mike Alessi 170 (Dunlop)

6. Jason Anderson 176 (Dunlop)

6. Jacqueline Strong 81 (Dunlop)

7. Andrew Short 137

7. Jeremy Martin 162 (Dunlop)

7. Lindsey Palmer 71 (Dunlop)

8. Broc Tickle 135 (Dunlop)

8. Kyle Cunningham 158 (Dunlop)

8. Amanda Brown 66 (Dunlop)

9. Josh Grant 131

9. Justin Bogle 145 (Dunlop)

9. Sade Allender 64 (Dunlop)

10. Jake Weimer 131 (Dunlop)

10. Cooper Webb 140 (Dunlop)

10. Marissa Markelon 55 (Dunlop)

JESSICAPATTERSON 65

GEICO MOTORCYCLE AMA PRO ROAD RACING:

2013 MID-SEASON REPORT

66

67

MARTINCARDENAS 68

69

HAYES IS VERY MUCH BACK IN CONTENTION FOR HIS FOURTH-CONSECUTIVE AMA PRO NATIONAL GUARD SUPERBIKE CHAMPIONSHIP. AMA PRO NATIONAL GUARD SUPERBIKE After a surprise-filled and highly entertaining Daytona round

2012, Hayes got the double win at Barber. Hayes had a lot of

of the AMA Pro National Guard SuperBike series—in which

confidence going into Barber, and he was hoping to repeat

three-time defending SuperBike Champion Josh Hayes had a

history with another perfect-points weekend.

couple of ultra-rare mechanical issues with his Monster Energy/Graves/Yamaha YZF-R1 that forced him out of both

As it turned out, he did just that. He earned pole, and then,

Daytona races—Hayes came into Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin’s

despite jumping the start in Saturday’s first SuperBike race

Road America a whopping 48 points adrift of his familiar spot

and being assessed a 5-second penalty, he won the race

in the points lead. His teammate Josh Herrin and Yoshimura

outright, with National Guard Jordan Suzuki rider Roger

Suzuki Factory Racing’s Martin Cardenas each won races at

Hayden in hot pursuit, having also been given a 5-

Daytona, which put last year’s SuperBike Rookie of the Year

second penalty.

Herrin in first place after one round, with Cardenas in second place in the season points standings. Meanwhile, Hayes was

In one of the closest SuperBike races in quite some time,

mired down in 18th place.

Hayes held on by just 0.245 seconds at the stripe. He picked up another 11 points in the championship rankings, due to

Road America happens to be Hayes’ favorite track on the

the fact that Cardenas finished the race 13.170 seconds back

SuperBike tour, and even though his back was against the

in third place.

wall, the three-time champ came out of the magical land of cheese and brats with a perfect-points weekend. He won

Avoiding the starting-line drama of Saturday’s SuperBike race

pole, won both SuperBike races, and even earned two more

at Barber Motorsports Park, in Sunday’s race Hayes had to

bonus points for leading the most laps in each of those races.

contend with teammate Herrin in the early going. On lap six

Hayes squeezed all the points he could out of Road America,

of the contest, Herrin passed Hayes going into the turn that’s

which moved him up to fourth place in the championship by

known as Charlotte’s Web, and the younger Josh led the race

gaining 14 points on the championship leader Martin

for the next two laps. Hayes got back in front of Herrin on lap

Cardenas. Cardenas finished second in each of the Road

eight, and then, Herrin lost his second position to Hayden,

America SuperBike races, doing everything he could to hold

who was hard-charging to the front as he did in Saturday’s

off the Hayes onslaught. But the Colombian rider knows

SuperBike race. Hayden stayed right on Hayes’ rear wheel for

better than anyone that he can’t collect second-place results

the remainder of the race, but he was ultimately not able to

and win the championship. Cardenas’ two second-place

make the pass for the win. Herrin maintained a comfortable

finishes, however, did enable him to leapfrog over Herrin to

distance ahead of Cardenas, and the two riders finished in

take the lead in the Championship, due to the fact that

third and fourth place respectively.

Herrin finished in sixth and third in the two Road America SuperBike races.

So, after two perfect-points weekends at Road America and Barber Motorsports Park, Hayes is very much back in

The next stop on the schedule, at Barber Motorsports Park in

contention for his fourth consecutive AMA Pro National Guard

Birmingham, AL, is another favorite venue of Hayes. The track

SuperBike Championship. He moved into second place in the

is relatively close to his hometown in Gulfport, MS, and, in

standings and now trails first-place Cardenas by a mere 10 points. He can take over the championship lead if he notches another perfect-points weekend at the next GEICO Motorcycle AMA Pro Road Racing event, which is at MidOhio Sports Car Course in Lexington, OH.

70

JOSHHAYES 71

CAMERONBEAUBIER 72

73

AMA PRO GOPRO DAYTONA SPORTBIKE Following his dominant Daytona 200 win, Yamaha Extended Service/Monster Energy/Graves/Yamaha YZF-R6 rider Cameron Beaubier looked to Elkhart Lake, WI, to continue the pursuit of his (and Yamaha’s) first AMA GoPro Daytona SportBike Championship.

Beaubier split the weekend’s race wins with RoadRace Factory/Red Bull rider Jake Gagne. In Saturday’s race, Beaubier and Gagne had a good battle in the early part of the contest, but Beaubier was able to pull a slight gap over Gagne starting on lap four, which he then stretched out to a 2.693-second lead by the time he took the checkered flag.

On Sunday, the outcome was different. Gagne went to the front in very short order, and Beaubier needed almost a full lap to slot himself into second in front of Meen Motorsports rider Jake Lewis. Beaubier was then able to make a draft pass on Gagne down the straight, only to have Gagne overtake Beaubier heading into Road America’s turn five.

The two Yamaha riders diced back and forth until three laps from the end of the race, when Beaubier had a bobble going into turn 11, enabling Gagne to pull a 3.5-second gap, which he stretched out to a full 4 seconds to win his second Daytona SportBike race of his career.

In the battle for third at Road America, J.D. Beach of the RoadRace Factory/Red Bull team prevailed in the first race, while Lewis took the position in the second race.

Leaving Road America—and with three DSB races behind them— Beaubier led the championship by 15 points over Gagne.

At the next round at Barber Motorsports Park, Beaubier would return to the track where, last year, he notched the first DSB pole, first DSB win, and first DSB double wins of his career. The Northern Californian was hoping to repeat history in 2013 and score his secondconsecutive perfect-points weekend at the Birmingham, Alabama, track—and that’s exactly what he did.

Beaubier earned the provisional pole in Friday’s first qualifying session, and he broke the track record that he had set in 2012.

In Saturday’s DSB race, Beaubier notched his third victory of the season, besting his rival (and good friend) Gagne, along with Jason DiSalvo, who rides a Latus Motors Racing Triumph Daytona 675R. On Sunday, Beaubier completed his perfect weekend by taking win number four of the season. The current DSB championship points leader won by 6.326 seconds over RoadRace Factory/Red Bull teammates Gagne and Beach.

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STEFANOMESA

TOMASPUERTA

AMA PRO MOTORCYCLE-SUPERSTORE.COM SUPERSPORT At Road America, in the always highly competitive AMA Pro

advantage over the diminutive Colombian by the time he took

was just 0.001 behind Stefano. Alexander had succeeded in

Roberts got a less-than-ideal start in Saturday’s SuperSport

Motorcycle-SuperStore.com SuperSport class, National Guard

the checkered flag and the win. It was Alexander’s first AMA

doing the double at Road America, and by the narrowest

race, but he quickly moved into the lead on lap two, where he

Celtic Racing Suzuki GSX-R600 rider Corey Alexander had a

Pro Road Racing victory since his win in the rain aboard a

of margins.

dominated the race and won by 8.122 seconds over

weekend that he won’t soon forget.

Vesrah Suzuki GSX-R600 in SuperSport two years prior at Miller Motorsports Park.

Alexander was the fastest rider on the track in the very first

McFadden of TOBC Racing. Incidentally, McFadden had also

turned into a pretty big surprise as the battle was joined by

recently turned 16 and was making his AMA Pro debut just

Road America practice session on Friday afternoon. In

In most SuperSport races, the finishes are close and who wins

Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup rider Joe Roberts, who had

like Roberts, so the two teen-agers really shone in their first

provisional qualifying on Friday, he put himself into second

among at least five riders is usually anyone’s guess. Such was

recently turned 16 and became eligible for AMA Pro Road

road race as professionals.

position on the grid, next to polesitter Stefano Mesa, who races

the situation in Sunday’s SuperSport race. For all 10 laps of

Racing competition.

a Yamaha YZF-R6 for the Motosport.com RSRacecraft team.

the red-flag-delayed contest, five riders were bunched up at

Capping off his dream weekend, Roberts also won Sunday’s

the front, including poleman Mesa, RoadRace Factory/Red

Even though he was unfamiliar with the Alabama track and

SuperSport race at Barber, beating Team 95’s Hayden Gillim

Saturday morning at Road America dawned wet and cold for

Bull’s Tomas Puerta, Harv’s H-D racer Travis Wyman, Baby

the AMA Pro Motorcycle-SuperStore.com SuperSport class,

by 3.690 seconds, with Puerta finishing third.

SuperSport final qualifying, and none of the top riders were

Appleseed CM Motorsport rider Jeffrey Tigert, and Alexander.

Roberts was immediately fast on his California SuperBike

able to improve on the times set in the first qualifying session on Friday.

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RoadRace Factory/Red Bull’s Tomas Puerta and Nick The SuperSport race weekend at Barber Motorsports Park

School/RoadracingWorld.com Racing Honda CBR600RR.

With the round at Barber Motorsports in the books, Mesa is

Alexander, Mesa, and Puerta took the checkered flag three-

He set the fastest time in practice and absolutely blitzed his

currently leading the 2013 AMA Pro Motorcycle-

wide and virtually in unison, and none of them initially had

competition in qualifying to earn the SuperSport pole against

Superstore.com SuperSport East standings by just two

As portended by Friday’s provisional qualifying, Saturday’s

any idea who actually won the race. The photo finish showed

AMA Pro Road Racing’s biggest field of competitors.

points over Alexander. The SuperSport West standings show

SuperSport race was a two-rider duel between Mesa and

that Alexander emerged victorious, with Mesa in second place

Puerta at the top with a 32-point lead over Mach Modified’s

Alexander, and Corey was able to eke out a 1-second

just 0.12 of a second behind, and third-place finisher Puerta

David Sadowski Jr.

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AMA PRO VANCE & HINES XR1200 The developing story in the AMA Pro Vance & Hines XR1200 class is the interesting schedule and unquestionable talent of wily veteran Steve Rapp, who races for the Suburban Harley-Davidson team.

Rapp’s burgeoning career as a commercial airline pilot caused him to have to miss the first day of practice and qualifying at both Road America and Barber Motorsports Park. You’d think that would put the Northern Californian at a distinct disadvantage against the extremely stiff competition in the XR1200 class.

On the contrary, Rapp flew into Wisconsin late on Saturday night, drove to the track in Elkhart Lake, set the pole on Sunday morning, and won Sunday afternoon’s race in dominating fashion.

At Barber Motorsports Park, Rapp once again missed the first day of practice and qualifying due to his day job as a pilot, but he spent his day off on Sunday in Alabama where he again qualified on the front row for the XR1200 class.

Despite facing a serious challenge from Spyke’s Harley-Davidson’s Michael Barnes during the first part of Sunday’s race at Barber—which saw Barnes lead early—Rapp was ultimately able to break free and build up a 5.454-second lead at the checkered flag to record his second win out of three races so far this season. Third place went to Eco-Fuel Saver/Scrubblade’s Tyler O’Hara, who won the XR1200 race at Daytona.

Currently, Barnes is narrowly leading the championship by just one point over Rapp, with O’Hara in third place and only seven points out of the championship lead himself.

Last year’s AMA Pro Vance & Hines XR1200 class came right down to the final corner of the final race before the championship was decided, and, by the way things are shaping up so far this season, it looks like the 2013 championship may conclude in similar fashion. Stay tuned.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE ROAD RACE IMAGES

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ROGERHAYDEN

CAMERONBEAUBIER

DUNLOP RIDERS SET LAP RECORD AND FASTEST RACE LAP TIMES AT BARBER

JOEROBERTS

STEVERAPP

In the American SuperBike Class, National Guard Jordan

In the Daytona SportBike class, all riders competed on

Suzuki’s Roger Hayden set a new SuperBike fastest race lap

Sportmax D211GP-A tires designed and produced in Buffalo.

at Barber of 1:25.2 during Saturday’s race, a half-second

During Saturday’s qualifying session, Cameron Beaubier set

faster than the 2012 fastest race lap. The pace was

a new lap record in qualifying with a 1:27.2, which was 0.2

exceptionally fast, with Hayes and Hayden lapping in the

second faster than the previous record.

mid-1:25s for most of the duration of both races. The performance of the domestically developed and produced

With the entire SuperSport field likewise mounted aboard

Dunlop 200/55R17 KR449 slicks was stellar, with amazing

U.S.-made Sportmax D211 GP-A DOT-approved tires, 16-

consistency during both races despite track temperatures

year-old Joe Roberts dominated the racing and set a new

topping 118 degrees Fahrenheit.

fastest race lap for the class in the second race with a remarkable time of 1:29.0, nearly a second faster than the previous year.

In the XR1200 race, winner Steve Rapp topped the fastest race lap aboard D211 GP-A tires by a full second, posting a 1:34.6 time that demolished the 1:35.6 fast-lap mark set only a year ago in 2012.

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DUNLOP PROVING GROUNDS: A ONE-OF-A-KIND FACILITY IN THE U.S.

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DPG’s wet track includes a skid pad where lateral loads can be measured in both wet and dry conditions.

Tire testing is an exacting and arduous business; DPG maintains numerous

THE PROCESS OF CREATING A NEW TIRE INCORPORATES MUCH CHEMISTRY, PHYSICS AND ENGINEERING, A MEASURE OF ART AND LOADS AND LOADS OF HARD WORK.

street and off-road test bikes, plus a full-on Suzuki Superbike to test race and track tires to the limit.

The process of creating a new tire incorporates much chemistry, physics and engineering, a measure of art and loads and loads of hard work. After the computer designing and lab work are completed, tires are then put to the real-world test. One place they are tested is at the Dunlop Proving Grounds (DPG) in Huntsville, AL. Dunlop develops, evaluates and then builds motorcycle tires for the North American market here in the U.S. to best match U.S. riding styles and needs. Much of the development and evaluation process takes place here at DPG, a dedicated motorcycle-only tire-test facility and the only one of Located on 80 acres, DPG was dedicated in

its kind in the U.S. using American-spec bikes. This 80-acre facility

1989. Since then, test riders have done

opened in 1989, and ongoing improvements to the road course, the wet-

hundreds of thousands of laps testing

test track, the multiple Supercross and motocross tracks as well as a

everything from Gold Wing tires to Supercross

recently expanded off-road course, make it a leading-edge tool for real-

tires to AMA Pro road racing slicks.

world tire development. DPG is also the only dedicated wet-track test facility designed specifically for motorcycles in the U.S., which explains why AMA road racing teams test their wet setup there.

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On-board data acquisition equipment augments rider feedback during testing, making laptops as common at DPG as tires irons.

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Rich Conicelli in action on the Yosh Superbike, one of many test bikes in the DPG stable.

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Clark Stiles puts Dunlop’s Geomax® off-road tires to the test on DPG’s numerous Supercross, Motocross and off-road courses.

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DPG’s wet track can simulate deep standing water on the road.

DPG STATS - DPG sits on 80 acres. That includes the building, road course and off-road area.

- The road course takes up 40 acres, and the off-road course sits on 35 acres.

- DPG was opened in 1989 and originally designed to accommodate passenger car and motorcycle tire testing.

- A decade later, DPG became a motorcycle-tire-exclusive testing facility.

- Numerous changes to the shop/office area and track were implemented at that time.

- The short road handling course (also the portion used for wet handling) is 0.5 mile.

- The long road course is 1.3 miles.

- Total asphalt surface length is 4.0 miles.

- The off-road area includes a 3.0 mile enduro (woods)

90

Water displacement is key to wet-pavement grip, as

course, an outdoor-style national Motocross track and an

demonstrated here on the DPG wet track.

indoor-style Supercross track.

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A LASTING RELATIONSHIP For over 30 years, our tire engineers have worked with Harley-Davidson to develop tires that meet the stringent performance standards established by Harley-Davidson. And meeting those parameters means Dunlop tires deliver excellent all-around performance under a variety of riding conditions.

30 YEARS IN THE MAKING LATERAL-GRIP COMPOUND

LONG-WEARING COMPOUND Dunlop’s MT Multi-Tread rear tire incorporates 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.

Dunlop is the only tire company manufacturing motorcycle tires in North America—and that’s an advantage that directly benefits American riders. We work diligently to develop tire technology at our manufacturing facility in Buffalo, NY. We also refine new designs at the Dunlop Proving Grounds in Alabama, and gather real-world input from sources as diverse as professional AMA racing, amateur racing events and motorcycle rallies across the country.

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The 1980s

The 1990s

2000 - 2007

JULY 1981

JULY 1992

JUNE 2000

Dunlop awarded Sportster business

Intro of WWW on Heritage Softail

Co-Brand License Agreement signed

JULY 2000

JULY 1983 Dunlop awarded FL business, Now 100 percent OE tire supplier

JULY 1995 Intro of Signature WWW

Debut of HD/Dunlop Tire Series at Denver, CO, Dealer Meeting

JULY 2002 Wider MU85B16 tires debut on FL

JULY 1997

JULY 2003 100th H-D Anniversary Dunlop 20 years exclusive OE tire supplier

Intro of K591 wide tire kit

JANUARY 1998

DECEMBER 1983

Dunlop signs first Master Supply Agreement in H-D history

Dunlop passes CHP Police Tire testing

HARLEY-DAVIDSON & DUNLOP

HAVE A LONG RELATIONSHIP

WORKING TOGETHER FOR OVER 30 YEARS

2008-2012

NOW

JULY 2008 FL platform change: first MT multi-tread tires ever on touring bike

FUTURE

APRIL 2013

NEXT 30 YEARS

HD 110th Anniversary / Dunlop Official Tire Sponsor

Collaboration with H-D on new innovations

JULY 2010 19� Touring Front introduced

JULY 2011 Dyna Switchback launched

JULY 2012 Sportster 72: First whitewall tire on XL

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UPCOMING EVENTS AMA Pro Road Racing July 12-14 Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course Lexington, OH

Lucas Oil Pro Motocross July 27 Spring Creek Motocross Park Millville, MN

WORCS August 9-11 Glen Helen Raceway Devore, CA

GNCC September 7-8 Unadilla Valley Sports Center New Berlin, NY

WORCS July 12-14 Pala Raceway Pala, CA

32nd Annual AMA Amateur National Motocross Championships at Loretta Lynn's July 28- August 3

Red Bull Indianapolis GP August 16-18 Indianapolis Motor Speedway Indianapolis, IN

AMA Pro Road Racing September 13-15 New Jersey Motorsports Park Millville, NJ

Red Bull U.S. Grand Prix July 19-21 Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca Monterey, CA

AMA Pro Road Racing Miller Motorsports Park August 2-4 Tooele, UT

Lucas Oil Pro Motocross August 17 Miller Motorsports Park Tooele, UT

WORCS September 13-15 Honey Lake Milford, CA

Lucas Oil Pro Motocross July 20 Washougal MX Park Washougal, WA

Lucas Oil Pro Motocross August 10 Unadilla Valley Sports Center New Berlin, NY

Lucas Oil Pro Motocross August 24 Lake Elsinore Motorsports Park Lake Elsinore, CA

GNCC September 21-22 Riverstone Estate Foxburg, PA 66th Annual Motocross of Nations September 29 Teutschenthal, Germany

©2013 Dunlop • P. O. Box 1109, Buffalo, New York 14240-1109 • 1-800-845-8378 • dunlopmotorcycle.com