On the Pegs - April 2024

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Sherco USA has teamed up with FreedomRoad Financial to get you on the bike

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Sherco SE 300

CONTENTS

FEATURED ARTICLES

PG 40 - USHE GRINDING STONE

PG 26 - SANDWINDER ENDURO

PG 56 - GNCC THE GENERAL

PG 92 - NEPG CAJUN CLASSIC

PG 46 - USSE WARRIOR SPRINT ENDURO

PG 72 - X-TRIAL CHALON-SUR-SAÔNE

Observing the Trials and Enduro community with a single-track mind.

PUBLISHER/EDITOR

Steph Vetterly

ADVERTISING

Steph Vetterly

stephanie@onthepegsmagazine.com

CONTRIBUTORS

Brian Pierce

Seat Time

Shan Moore

Kayla Bolton

Ken Hill

Mack Faint

Jenny Keller Photography

Pere Flores

ENDUROGP & KTM RENEW FOR 2024

courtesy of ENDUROGP

Prime Stadium Eventos, promoters of the Paulo Duarte FIM EnduroGP World Championship, have extended their current partnership with KTM Group, Europe’s leading highperformance street and offroad motorcycle manufacturing group. As a main partner of the EnduroGP series, KTM Group will continue supporting the championship through 2024.

Based in Austria, KTM Group, the parent company of KTM, Husqvarna Motorcycles, and GASGAS, has been a stalwart of the offroad motorcycle

industry for over 30 years and has supported nearly 50 enduro world champions during that time. Recent champions include reigning Enduro1 World Champion, Josep Garcia (KTM), as well as 2022 EnduroGP and Enduro1 World Champion, Andrea Verona (GASGAS).

The 2024 FIM EnduroGP World Championship kicks off tomorrow with the first round of a Portuguese double-header, beginning in Fafe before heading east to Valpaços. The series will then make a return

to Romania for the first time in many years, before moving on to fan favourites Italy and Slovakia. Another hotly anticipated addition to the 2024 calendar is the ForSiteServices GP of Wales, which will undoubtedly be welcomed by British riders and spectators alike. France will host the closing round of the 2024 series, where rivalries will be settled, and champions crowned.

Carla Alvarenga – Prime Stadium Eventos Managing Director: “We’re very happy to have KTM Group back as a sponsor for another year! KTM

Group is one of our most dedicated supporters, having been involved in the championship for over 30 years. Their commitment to the sport of enduro is second to none and their presence in the paddock has become part of the furniture. We are looking forward to another successful year with KTM Group!”

ENDUROGP & MITAS TIRES - NEW FOR 2024

courtesy of ENDUROGP

Prime Stadium Eventos, promoters of the FIM EnduroGP World Championship, are pleased to announce the beginning of a brand-new partnership with highperformance tire manufacturer Mitas.

Mitas is a leading motorcycle tyre brand with decades of experience and with a long and successful history in various disciplines of off-road motorcycle racing. Thanks to its partnership with EnduroGP, Mitas’ dedication to providing enduro racers with high-quality tires has grown even stronger. The partnership demonstrates the enthusiasm and commitment Mitas has to off-road racing, creating a solid basis for further development of enduro tires.

The seven-round 2024 EnduroGP season kicks off on April 5th with a Portuguese double-header. As well as visiting Italy, Slovakia, and France, the series will return to Romania and the UK, two countries that have not hosted EnduroGP competition in many years.

Carla Alvarenga – Prime Stadium Eventos Managing Director: “We are very pleased to welcome Mitas on board and part of the EnduroGP

family! As we near the beginning of the 2024 season, we are happy to have Mitas’ support and look forward to a successful year with them. As one of the leading tyre manufacturers, we look forward to helping them thrive in the discipline of enduro and develop their enduro tyre offering. It’s certainly going to be an exciting season together!”

Gustavo Pinto Teixeira – Head of Mitas Motorcycle Tyres: “The partnership between Mitas and FIM EnduroGP is part of the brand’s deep-rooted commitment to the enduro discipline. We want to be much more for the sport than "just” a sponsor. For many years we have been a reliable tire partner for the athletes in various off-road disciplines and our aim is to also enhance our support for the teams competing in EnduroGP.”

GASGAS AND VERONA CONTINUE INTO 2024

GASGAS Factory Racing is pleased to announce the signing of a multi-year contract extension with EnduroGP star Andrea Verona. The 24-year-old Italian will continue to represent GASGAS on the world enduro stage throughout 2024 and beyond!

Now heading into his fourth season with GASGAS Factory Racing, Andrea has experienced no shortage of success aboard GASGAS machinery. Joining the team in 2021, Verona went on to top the Enduro1 class for two consecutive years and secured his first overall FIM EnduroGP World Championship title in 2022.

After switching to an EC 350F and the Enduro2 category at the start of the 2023 season, the Italian had a strong year in the EnduroGP championship. Securing eight podiums from the 14 days raced, Andrea finished an impressive second in the E2 class and third in the overall EnduroGP standings. With the start of the 2024 season imminent, Verona has his sights firmly set on securing the EnduroGP crown

Andrea Verona: “I’m really happy to re-sign with

GASGAS Factory Racing again and stay with the team! We’ve been together since 2021 and I’m feeling good with the whole crew, the bike, and the factory. I might be biased, but I think it’s the best factory in the offroad motorcycling sector. I’m proud to represent GASGAS at races, especially as I’m the only enduro rider for the factory. The team are always fighting for the same goal as me, which is to win, and everyone is constantly trying to improve and make the bike faster or help me in any way I need. It’s so important to have that support behind the scenes and it allows me to be the best I can be. For the coming years, I’m happy to re-sign with the team and continue my professional career with GASGAS Factory Racing so we can keep fighting for those wins!”

GEOFF AARON JOINS CPD TEAM!

courtesy of CPD

We are happy to announce that CPD has contracted the services of Mr. Geoff Aaron from California as our promotions manager!

As 10-time National Trials Champion and former GasGas off road manager, the level of experience Geoff brings to CPD will

have an immediate positive impact. Geoff’s first task will be to focus on Electric Motion with the new Escape X, Escape XR and upcoming new Epure FACTOR-e trials model. Promotions, brand development and dealer relationships will be the core efforts along with creating a stronger relationship within the Southern California MC industry for all the CPD brands including Rieju, SWM and AJP.

“Geoff’s vast experience in the offroad market and being based in Temecula, CA is the perfect hire to help us gain the exposure and to create the partnerships we want with the magazines and industry.” Mark Berg stated. “ Electric Motion has a bunch of new exciting products coming to the USA with even more coming this fall, we need someone to focus on EM right away and there is no one better than Geoff to fill this role.”

“I had the opportunity to visit the new EM Factory in January for their Epure FACTOR-e launch and got to visit the Rieju team in Figueres, Spain. I am thrilled to be working with these brands along with the familiar CPD team in

the USA. I have been experimenting with the EM Comp for a month now and have been impressed by the technology and adjustability with the EM connect platform. Being able to tune the motorcycle for all level of riders from your phone is the future. The newest version EM EPure FACTOR-e with a 4-speed gearbox is adding even more excitement and capability for top-tier trials competition. I am looking forward to helping CPD with the growth.” Geoff Aaron commented.

Once EM promotions are moving forward, then the focus will turn to Rieju with their new adventure models along with the E-Tango and then AJP and SWM.

The NATC (North American Trials Council) series kicks off the 2024 National Season April 13th and 14th in Kingman AZ and Electric Motion will have a display at the event. Stop by to say hello and check out EM!

Geoff’s email is promotions@ cpd-usa.com. Send him a note of congratulations, along with inquiries, ideas or contact information.

TYLER VORE AND RIEJU USA

courtesy of RIEJU USA

Rieju USA is proud to announce rider Tyler Vore has signed for the 2024 season. Tyler will represent Rieju USA on the west coast competing in the West Hare Scramble series. He will be defending last years Pro 250 championship on his MR 250 Racing.

Mark Berg, Rieju USA Team Owner: "We are thrilled to have Tyler back with us putting his Rieju to work on the west coast! Last years championship in West

Hare Scramble's Pro 250 class is a testament to his hard work and dedication to the sport. Tyler looks like he is ready to defend his title and show the west coast what Rieju performance and reliability looks like."

After last years season with exceptional results Tyler aims to compete for wins and defend the championship in AMA WHS Pro 250 class, qualify and compete for gold medal and class win at 2024 Spain ISDE.

Tyler Vore: "I am very excited to be working with familiar faces and race the Rieju 250 and 300 in 2024. Most riders tend to choose the 300, but I look forward to showcasing the potential of the 250!"

TKO ENTRIES OPEN FOR 2024

courtesy of TKO

Racer entries are open for the 2024 Red Bull Tennessee Knockout (TKO). The 2024 TKO will take place from Friday, August 23 to Sunday, August 25, 2024, at the Trials Training Center in Sequatchie, Tennessee. The fourteenth annual TKO will again be part of the FIM Hard Enduro World Championship (HEWC) in 2024 and will also be part of the AMA US Hard Enduro Championship and serve as the AMA Grand Championship for Extreme Enduro. The top North American riders will take on the best international riders.

The multi-round racing format that attracts a maximum of 500 amateur entries and the best pro riders will start on Friday with the amateur Hot Laps to set the Saturday starting positions. Saturday will include two rounds of amateur racing that will allow up to thirty riders to earn the opportunity to race in the pro class racing that will start on Saturday afternoon with a Hot Lap on the more difficult pro short course.

Sunday will include three rounds of pro class racing that concludes with a multi-lap main event that is spectacular for the fans.

The TKO will again include the ECR eMoto championship races for electric motorcycles and electric motorcycle demo rides to add to the fun weekend for racers and spectators.

The top amateur riders will be eligible to qualify directly to the Saturday amateur race two if they finished in the top 50 in the amateur racing at the 2023 TKO or finish in the top 10 in the East, West or Premier AMA US Hard Enduro championships in their respective classes* (Amateur C, Youth and Women’s Amateur class riders will race in Saturday race 1). The top pro riders will be invited directly to the pro class Hot Lap (new for 2024, pro riders can enter the pro class without an invite).

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

2024 KX 450 AIR FILTER

DT-1 Filters is proud to announce the highly anticipated 2024 KX450 Air Filter is now in stock. When the 2024 KX450 was initially released, there was a lot of conversation around getting more airflow into the engine to unleash the redesigned bikes true power.

That is when DT-1 went to the drawing board to design an all-new air filter to allow for maximum air

flow into the engine while utilizing the stock cage. What we came up with was a high flowing filter that lets the air in while keeping the dust out with the addition of a dome shape to increase surface area which ultimately increases throttle response and power.

Available in Standard or Pre-Oiled (+$3.00)

Current Price: $32.99

CLUTCH CYLINDER GUARD

Sherco 2024 250/300 SEF Factory

Saves your slave cylinder and engine case if you throw a chain or fall on a rock. Offers great peace of mind.

Current Price: $42.95

Part Number: 13-9024

IGNITIION WIRE GUARD

Sherco 2024 250/300 SEF Factory

Don't get stuck out on the trail with a damaged ignition wire on your Sherco.

Our Ignition wiring guard helps prevent the ignition wire from being damaged by sticks or other debris.

Current Price: $29.95

Part Number: 27-9024

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

BRAKE PEDAL TIP

Beta/Sherco

Beta 2005-2024 RR/RR-S/Xtrainer

Sherco 2013-2024 125-500 SC/SC-F/ SE-R/SEF-R/Factory

The EE Brake Pedal tip has been designed to be stronger than stock, offering maximum grip with an aggressive tread.

Made in the USA out of high grade stainless steel.

Mounting hardware included. 35mm wide

Current Price: $29.95

Part Number: 17-4018

BRP CHAIN GUIDE

Sherco 2024 250/300 SEF Factory

Exceptional impact durability

Superior wear resistance

Less drag increases horsepower

Limited 1 year replacement warranty against wear or breakage

Current Price: $86.00

Part Number: 19-9024

• CNC milled from highstrength aluminum

• Elegant anodised surface

• Stunning Visual Appearance

• Used by Factory riders

Fits all 4 stroke Enduro models since 2015

Part Number: 6544

• CNC milled from highstrength aluminum

• Elegant anodised surface

• Stunning Visual appearance

• Used by Factory riders

Fits all Enduro models since 2012

Part Number: 6529

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

RACING OIL PLUG

• CNC milled from highstrength aluminum

• Elegant anodised surface

• Stunning Visual appearance

• Used by Factory riders

Fits all Enduro models since 2012

Part Number: 6527

The 2-stroke enduro Models

Overview

These motorcycles can handle whatever is put out in front of them. The RR model range are the most rideable and versatile 2-Strokes on the market. Read below to see what make each bike unique from the rest.

Personality

125

This bike fills a gap in the off-road market as a play bike, but also a serious race bike for competition

2OO

A nimble chassis like the 125 but with added torque which gives the 200 a rare combination of agiility & power

25O

Prefers to be revved out a bit more than the 300 RR yet still provides a smooth power delivery

3OO

An amazing amount of torque with a lightweight feel that provides the ultimate traction and ease of riding

Off Road

sandwinder enduro

words BRIAN PIERCE // SEAT TIME

The 2024 Sandwinder Sprint Enduro was the second race of the TSCEC schedule, and it was a glorious day on a dirt bike! The McMahan Ranch in Smithville, TX is the backdrop for this legendary enduro. Somehow this property in southern Texas has just a bit of everything an enduro racer would want (if only Texas had mountains).

This enduro has evolved a bit over the years it’s taken place on the McMahan Ranch. I raced here in 2018 when it was a restart enduro. I also believe I remember more miles of trails that we raced on. But just as life evolves, so do the races and the properties we congregate on.

THE BENEFIT OF SPRINT ENDUROS

As rural areas continue to become suburban sprawl, we’ll have less land to ride on. Sprint Enduros allow for more miles to be raced with less land to do it on. Though I don’t enjoy riding the same trail over and over again, racing dirt bikes is still racing dirt bikes.

Sprint Enduros also keep racers closer to their vehicles or base

camp. This allows for easier access to tools, hydration, nutrition, gas, and high-fives from the family. Anything can, and typically will, go wrong while racing, and having the ability to make a quick adjustment between test sections can be helpful for a fruitful day of racing.

THE DISADVANTAGE OF SPRINT ENDUROS

The first disadvantage is the other side of the coin of one of the benefits. Riding the same trail over and over again during a Sprint Enduro will wear the trail out quicker. As we have hopes of gaining access to more public lands, we need to show we can maintain a riding area. The single track ridden during a Sprint Enduro gets absolutely hammered due to the compound use from multiple laps of multiple classes on the day.

Sprint Enduros also take away the attrition aspect of a traditional Enduro. Enduros are based on endurance, and attrition should be kept a part of the sport of enduro.

Transfer sections, between each test section, do not need to be short. They are a means to an end, getting racers to the next test section, so racers can showcase their prowess in the specific test terrain.

WHERE DO ENDUROS GO FROM HERE?

We’ll have to fight more for land use and endurance enduros. Sprint Enduros are easier on everyone, from the promoter to the racer, but easy keeps us comfortable. If we’re always looking for the easy way out, we’re holding ourselves back from the growth that happens when we push ourselves into the unknown.

KEEP ENDURANCE IN ENDURO SHIRT

This shirt is here to preserve the essence of enduro racing, where endurance is king and every mile counts. Bring back the feeling of perseverance, and bring back the 100 milers.

a new era of enduro has begun. featuring revolutionary new fuel injection technology, the 2024 te 300 is primed to take you places you have never gone before. Open up new possibilities.

GASGAS TECH TALKS

New for 2024 is a brand-new GASGAS video series focusing on the technical side of dirt bikes. Something we like to call – GASGAS Tech Talks!

Breaking down various components, what they are, and how they work, as well as guiding you through things like suspension set-up, there really is something for everyone. So, what are you waiting for? Take a moment to start watching and learning!

Our new app is really amazing. Pre-loaded with recommended suspension settings for every bike and every kind of rider, it’s when you fit a Connectivity Unit Offroad and GPS that the app really becomes a game changer. In addition to letting you easily create customized engine maps, the GPS will also record your lap times and your lines on track, plus so much more! Watch on to find out just how cool it is.

STEVE HOLCOMBE

“My main goal is to defend my number one plate…”

courtesy ENDUROGP

With the 2024 Paulo Duarte FIM EnduroGP World Championship getting underway this evening in Fafe, Portugal, reigning EnduroGP and Enduro2 champion Steve Holcombe is hungry to defend his titles aboard new machinery.

Adding extra spice to the mix, Holcombe will also contest the Enduro1 category for the first time in his professional career. Clearly excited to get back to racing, Steve looks dialled in and ready to fight for the top step of both the EnduroGP and Enduro1 podium in his new colours.

STEVE, IT’S THE START OF THE 2024 ENDUROGP SEASON.

THE START OF ROUND ONE IS JUST HOURS AWAY. YOU’VE HAD SOME STRONG PRESEASON RESULTS ALREADY, HOW ARE YOU FEELING? READY TO GO?

Steve: “I’m feeling good on the new bike! The Italian championship went really well, honestly a bit better than I expected. I had been feeling good in my preparation, but with a brandnew bike and new team, there were a lot of question marks on how our performance might be. It was cool to come in at round one and have such a strong ride against my main competition for this season and it’s definitely increased my confidence for the upcoming EnduroGP season.”

HOW ARE YOU ENJOYING THE NEW BIKE AND BEING A PART OF THE HONDA RACING REDMOTO ENDURO TEAM?

“We’re at a really good place with the bike, we made a couple of small improvements after the first race. With getting back up to race pace and riding a track that broke down quite a lot, there were some small tweaks that we made to the suspension to help me. The team have been amazing, really accommodating, especially with our pre-season camp and spending a lot of time with the guys in Italy training. I’ve really enjoyed my preseason and I’m in a really good spot with the bike, team, and my mental preparation for this year.”

WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS FOR THE FIM ENDUROGP WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP IN 2024?

“My main goal is to defend my number one plate. It’s never an easy task. I was able to defend my titles back in the 2017 and 2018 seasons, but there’s some added pressure when riding with the number one. That’s why I think some of the other guys haven’t opted to run the number before. For me, I look at the pressure as being a privilege. I’ve earned the right to run that number and I’m proud to display it on my bike and on the back of my jersey. The Enduro1 championship is

important to me this year too. That was a real motivator in making the switch to the smaller bike.”

WHO ARE YOU EXPECTING TO BE YOUR TOUGHEST RIVALS THIS YEAR?

“In my class, it has to be last year’s Enduro1 champ, Josep [Garcia]. For the overall championship, it’s the same two guys that were fighting week in week out last year with me and Josep, and that’s Brad [Freeman] and Andrea [Verona]. It’s clear, there are other guys that can win races and it will be interesting to see if any have made a step up from last year. We’ve got some new blood coming into the EnduroGP class and it’s going to be interesting to see where they fit in.”

WHICH ENDUROGP RACE ARE YOU MOST LOOKING FORWARD TO THIS YEAR?

“Of course, it has to be the GP of Wales in the UK. But in general, the calendar looks really good this year. I think it’s a championship that really suits my style and bike. With a double-header in Portugal to open the championship, and Portugal being a country I usually ride well in, I’m excited to see how these two rounds go. The races in Eastern Europe tend to be more traditional, forestry based enduro terrain, so

hopefully they should be good for me. With the final in France this year, it’s going to be a great season!”

WOULD YOU SAY YOUR UK ENDURO EXPERIENCE COMBINED WITH RACING FOR AN ITALIAN TEAM AND TRAINING THERE HAS HELPED YOU BE SO SUCCESSFUL?

“I would say it’s definitely helped, especially growing up in the UK and being forced to race in not ideal conditions. I personally feel being good in the mud is a sign of being a really good technical rider and it’s gives you a great base to ride any terrain. Because, if you can ride the mud, you can generally adapt to ride anything. With the majority of Italy being hard and rocky, spending time training there has definitely helped diversify my riding. There are some very good spots to ride at in Italy and it’s typically easier to find enduro tracks compared to being at home. One thing that’s really helped me this pre-season is riding with the guys and girl in the team and training on some great tracks. It’s helped me elevate my game and we’re all pushing each other on in training.”

LOOKING BACK TO LAST YEAR, HOW DID IT FEEL TO ADD ANOTHER ENDUROGP AND ENDURO2 WORLD TITLE TO YOUR COLLECTION?

“I’m really proud of myself for what I was able to achieve last year. I would say it was one of the biggest achievements in my career. After a couple frustrating years with injuries, it was great to prove everyone wrong and return to my best. I can’t describe how good it felt to stand on top of that podium in Portugal and lift the number one plate. It was a huge moment for me for sure.”

AND FINALLY, WHAT KEEPS YOU MOTIVATED SEASON AFTER SEASON?

“I have to admit there’s been times in the last few years when I found motivation tough. When things aren’t going well and you aren’t enjoying your racing, it makes you wonder why you’re doing it. Having a big change up this year has given me some fresh motivation and helped reignite my fire. Jumping onto the Honda is a great feeling. I’ve been able to get back to riding how I like to ride, being playful. It’s very refreshing. Working with Honda Racing RedMoto Enduro Team is awesome too. I’m excited for 2024!”

CODY WEBB WINS THE GRINDING STONE HARD ENDURO

PHOTO CREDIT JENNY KELLER

words courtesy SHERCO

The Grinding Stone hard enduro once again lived up to it’s name. From bent bars to busted pipes, the race was unkind to most. Cody Webb was able to come away relatively unscathed to take the round two win by almost two minutes.

The Northern Arizona town of Page is normally known to be warm and dry. That was not the case for the 2024 edition of the race. Heavy rains soaked the course on Friday. Those rains would make the riding conditions perfect for the Saturday morning qualifier. Webb and teammate Cooper Abbott knew they did not have to push hard in this race. Abbott would finish p2 and Webb p4.

Saturday evening the festivities would move to downtown Page for a street rythym style race. This event would have the top 32 riders going head to head until only one remained. In the final, it

was the FactoryONE Sherco duo of Cody Webb and Cooper Abbott. Webb would go on to edge out his teammate.

Overnight rain, sleet and high winds would force organizers to delay the Sunday proceedings as much of the course markings had blown of course. After getting the course reset, the morning race number two would whittle the field from 125 to just 25 for the grand finale. The weather once again added a layer to the difficulty as snow and sleet greeted riders at the starting line. The Sherco pair would ride smart finishing inside the top five to secure their place for the afternoon race.

The two-hour multi-lap main event stage was set. Riders were lined up in five rows of five riders each. Webb was in the middle of row one while Abbott was on the inside of row two. The riders would get away clean but it wasn’t long after until the course would wreck havoc. Webb, Trystan Hart, Will Riordan, Ryder Leblond, Abbott and Colton Haaker would lead the freight train on lap one.

Bent bars seemed to be the menu item of choice at the 2024 edition of the race as rider after rider seemed to fall victim to this making things that much more difficult. As the riders came through the halfway point, it was Webb with a oneminute lead over Hart and Leblond. The rejuvenated Webb would

continue to press on and would win by an almost two-minute gap over Hart. Cooper Abbott would be one of the bent bar victims causing him to lose a few places finishing p9.

“That was so gnarly!”

Exclaimed Webb. “From the weather to the pace to

the track, the whole thing was rough. I am so stoked to take back-toback wins to extend my points lead a little. The track was so sketchy and it seemed like it was eating up riders today. I was able to come away relatively unscathed outside of bending my bars a little, but not like some of the guys today. I rode patiently even though the pace was high from the start. I was able to pick the right lines and I used a bunch of my trials skills to navigate the course. I am so pumped for the team,” concluded Webb.

EVENT RESULTS (PRO)

GIRROIR ON TOP

words by SHAN MOORE photos by SHAN MOORE

ROUND 3

SEMORA, NC

It wasn’t easy, especially on Saturday, but Johnny Girroir remained undefeated in the 2024 US Sprint Enduro Series after the FMF KTM Factory Racer won both days of this weekend’s Warrior US Sprint Enduro on a beautiful Easter weekend in Semora, North Carolina.

With AmPro Yamaha’s Liam Draper nipping at his heels (and FMF KTM Factory Racing Landers’ Angus Riordan waiting in the wings), Girroir eked out Saturday’s win by 16 seconds over Draper.

“Yesterday was a little rough,” said Girroir. “A couple of crashes and stuff set me back. I think everyone was crashing. It was slick and very unpredictable. Last night, I went to bed a little frustrated last night, and told myself, “I really need to hit my marks, tomorrow. I felt like I did that today. It was a good weekend.”

Girroir nearly threw it away on a G-out on Sunday’s opening enduro test, but amazingly was able to save it and still win the test.

“I was sweating that one,” said Girroir. “I thought I was a goner.”

In all, Girroir won 11 of the 14 tests and topped Draper, who had two test wins, by 16 seconds on Saturday. Meanwhile, Rockstar Energy Husqvarna’s Craig DeLong was third on Saturday, another six seconds back, while Riordan was fourth, having won the final cross test on Saturday.

Giroir swept Sunday’s event and beat Enduro Engineering’s Josh Toth by 27 seconds, with Pro 2 riders Gus Riordan, Jason Tino and Draper in Pro 1 rounding out the top five.

Draper was particularly fast on the cross test, winning two of four on Saturday.

“Saturday was really good,” said Draper. “I was the closest I think I’ve ever been to Johnny for most of the day.”

Draper, who is still getting used to the 450, had a big get-off on Saturday. “In cross test four, I hit the dirt hard,” said Draper. “That kind of threw me back. Other than that, I’m super happy with my riding. I’m just learning this 450. Today I struggled a lot. Just the dry slick. With that much horsepower, you’ve got to ride it a lot different than a little bike. So, it showed today.”

From the FMF KTM Factory Racing Landers Team, Riordan pushed Draper and Girroir before settling for

third overall. He also won the Pro 2 class.

“I started off a bit rough,” said Riordan. “On Saturday’s test one, in the first turn, I laid her down. Sort of set the tone for the day. I was able to just sneak in front of Tino there in the last test. Today, I just kept chipping away and trying to keep Tino off my ass.”

Rockstar Energy Husqvarna’s Craig DeLong rode a clean race all weekend and never once hit the ground, however, he struggled to get comfortable in the North Carolina terrain.

“These things are tough for me,’ said DeLong. “I have good days and bad days. I’ll start slow on Saturday and then on Sunday I’m in a hole. I struggle at these things, I guess it’s just something I have to figure out.”

Hot off a big GNCC win, Enduro Engineering’s Josh Toth struggled to a sixth on Saturday, but made up for it with a brilliant runner-up behind Girroir to leave him with fifth overall.

Mousse Elite/Husqvarna rider Jason Tino celebrated his birthday with a solid sixth overall and second place in the Pro 2 class.

“This weekend was pretty similar to a round of golf,” said Tino. “A couple birdies, a couple pars, two triple bogies on the cross test today, but overall, a good weekend.

Phoenix Honda Racing’s Cody Barnes was seventh.

The weekend was up and down for me,” said Barnes. “Just struggled when the tracks got rough. Just needed to find a lot more speed in that enduro test. The guys were rolling this weekend. Have two weekends off before the GNCC, so go to work and get prepared for that one and the next sprint. I’m riding my 250 and I’ve won days on the 250 before. Some of the cross tests and stuff I think I’m at an advantage, actually, when they’re kind of tighter, trickier cross tests. It’s like any bike. There’s advantages and disadvantages. I don't think I’m at a disadvantage, but maybe I have to work a little bit harder.”

GasGas supported Jack Edmondson, of England, was eighth.

“Definitely improving each time, which is nice,” said Edmondson. “Just kept trying to get closer to these two. It’s my goal, really, and staying quite consistent this weekend. It’s been a good one.”

Morgantown Motorsports Racing’s Layne Michael showed up on a Yamaha, which he is still adjusting to, and came away with ninth overall.

“I’m feeling good, it’s just taking me some time to adjust to the bike,” said Michael. “My best two times of the were in the last two tests, so I feel good about that.”

Babbitts Off-road Kawasaki’s JoJo Cunningham rounded out the top10 and finished first in the ProAm division.

“I felt really good yesterday coming into today,” said Cunningham. “I knew that Coop, he’s always faster day two when it’s a little bit rougher. So, I didn’t push it a whole lot, but I still didn’t want Coop beating me because I know he’s going to give me crap about it for the next couple weeks. I just had a couple little things go bad. Locked up the rear wheel in the cross test, rode majority of it with no rear brakes. Then I

actually wrecked one time in the enduro chasing down Coop. I still barely edged him out on that, so I’m going to give him crap if he’s giving me crap the next couple of weeks. Other than that, it was good. Track got pretty dry today, but all in all, it was a good weekend.”

FMF KTM Factory Racing Lander’s rider Brandy Richards dominated the Pro Women’s division, winning all but one test, a cross test, which was won by Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s Korie Steede.

“The cross test was tricky with it

being super-slick, and the enduro test was even trickier with all the roots,” said Richards. “I think this is the first time I’ve actually felt comfortable in the enduro test, so that’s a big improvement.

Counting her cross test win combined with several other solid finishes, Steede came home in second. Third went to Ava Silvestri, while in fourth place was Carly Lee.

Trevor Jones returned to win the Pro Electric class on his Stark Varg.

New for 2024! FMF Fastest Test Awards – These Specialty Awards will be given to the racer of the fastest Cross Test and fastest Enduro Test on the weekend in the Youth/Amateur and Pro divisions.

YOUTH DIVISION

EVENT RESULTS (PRO)

1. Johnny Girroir (KTM)

2. Liam Draper (YAM)

3. Craig DeLong (HSQ)

4. Josh Toth (GG)

5. Cody Barnes (HON)

6. Layne Michael (YAM)

• Super Mini SR Racer, Cross Test – Levi Wilkins 7:18.7

• Super Mini SR Racer, Enduro Test – Levi Wilkins 6:51.7

AMATEUR DIVISION

• Open A Racer, Cross Test- Brett Heidorn 6:57.5

• Open A RACER, Enduro Test –Tyler Dibartolo 7:42.4

PRO DIVISION

• Johnny Girroir, Cross Test –6:42.3

• Johnny Girroir, Enduro Test –7:04.6

FMF also awards a trophy for the rider with the fastest time in each test over the weekend. Johnny Girrior won the award in the enduro and cross tests.

EVENT RESULTS (WOMEN'S PRO)

1. Brandi Richards (KTM)

2. Korie Steede (HSQ)

3. Ava Silvestri (GG)

4. Carly Lee (KTM)

XC2 COMPETITOR MAKES HISTORY AS JOSH TOTH EARNS OVERALL WIN

words by KAYLA BOLTON photos by MACK FAINT & KEN

HILL

ROUND 3

THE SPECIALIZED GENERAL GNCC WASHINGTON, GA

Day two of The Specialized General, round 3 of the 2024 Progressive Grand National Cross Country (GNCC) Series presented by Specialized, an AMA National Championship, saw sunny and mild conditions as GNCC history was made in Georgia.

As the afternoon Pro race got underway, it was Ricky Russell

charging to the first turn to earn himself the $250 Steel City Medical Center holeshot award in Georgia. The battle was on from there as the XC1 Open Pro competitors would make their way through the now tacky, slick Georgia clay.

The XC1 Open Pro battle was on as the physical race leaders seemed to change each lap with Rocky Mountain Red Bear Kawasaki’s Steward Baylor leading on lap one, and then FMF KTM Factory Racing’s Johnny Girroir would hold the lead on lap two only to find Russell leading the way on lap three. Girroir would make the pass back around Russell on lap four and continue to hold the physical lead for the remaining two laps of the race, earning his third-straight win in the XC1 Open Pro class.

However, as the XC2 250 Pro class starts a row behind the XC1 Open Pro class, there are time adjustments and with that time adjustment the race saw Team Enduro Engineering’s Josh Toth leading the way for the majority of the race. Toth was also physically up to second overall at one point in the race but would eventually come through third overall physically and remain in the number one spot with the adjusted time. Toth would make GNCC history in Georgia as he became the first overall winner from the XC2 250 Pro class.

Coastal GASGAS Factory Racing’s Jordan Ashburn would battle back after finishing just off the podium at the first two races of the season. Ashburn continued to push throughout the day as he found himself back in fourth again at one point. Ashburn remained in second for the last couple of laps and would hold onto that finishing position in the XC1 class, while earning third overall on the day.

Rocky Mountain Red Bear

Kawasaki’s Steward Baylor would battle back after holding the early lead and then falling back to fifth on the third lap of the race. Baylor battled back to round out the top three XC1 finishers, while earning fourth overall on the day. Baylor continues to hold the number two spot in the points standings after three races.

AmPro Yamaha’s Ricky Russell would come through to earn fourth in XC1 and fifth overall on the day after grabbing the holeshot and battling at the front of the pack for the first half of the race. Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s Craig DeLong is slowly building his momentum back up as he had a consistent day of running inside the top five. DeLong would come through to earn fifth in XC1, and sixth overall on the day.

FMF KTM Factory Racing’s Dante Oliveira made his way back to the East Coast this weekend for another

round of GNCC Racing where he came back from an eleventh place start to finish sixth in the XC1 class, 12th overall on the day. Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s Trevor Bollinger would also start near the back of the pack as he came through in 10th on the opening lap. Bollinger would make his way back up to seventh in class and 13th overall at round three.

Making his way up to eighth in the XC1 class after a bad start was Babbitt’s Online/Monster Energy/ Kawasaki Team Green’s Grant

Baylor. He would finish 14th overall on the day. JS Sherco Racing’s Josh Strang would finish 16th overall in the Georgia clay, and ninth in the XC1 class. Phoenix Racing Honda’s Mike Witkowski rounded out the top 10 in the XC1 class as he came through 17th overall on the day.

As Toth made history earning the overall win from the XC2 line it would be FMF KTM Factory Racing Lander’s Grant Davis coming through to earn second in the XC2 class, while also working his way up to eighth overall on the day. AmPro Yamaha’s Liam Draper, defending XC2 Champion, would come back to finish ninth overall on the day and round out the XC2 250 Pro class podium at The Specialized General GNCC.

In the FMF XC3 125 Pro-Am class it would be Liqui Moly Factory Beta Racing’s Jhak Walker coming

around to earn his secondstraight class win of the season. Walker would grab the early lead and not look back and he came through to finish nine minutes ahead of his competition.

Destructo Racing/Dixie Fuel/ Total Control Suspension’s Dustin Simpson would have a good start to the day as he grabbed the $100 Lojak Cycle Sales FMF XC3 holeshot award. Simpson would continue to push, making his way into second on lap two, and holding that position until the checkered flag flew. Husqvarna/Sidi/Fly Racing/Scott Goggle’s Zachary Davidson would battle back and find himself rounding out the podium in the FMF XC3 class in Georgia.

The Specialized General Top Amateur honors would go to Team Green Kawasaki’s Nicholas DeFeo as he came through to finish an impressive seventh overall on the day, while earning his second-straight 250 A class win. Team Green Kawasaki’s Joseph Cunningham would be second on the Top Amateur podium as he came through 23rd overall and earned second in the 250 A class.

AmPro Yamaha’s Nathanial “Bubz” Tasha rounded out the Top Amateur podium with a third in 250 A and a 26th overall finishing position.

When the WXC racers took off it was Rocky Mountain Red Bear

Kawasaki’s Rachael Archer getting the jump off the line to earn herself the $100 Kanati Performance Tires WXC holeshot award. However, Enduro Engineering/GASGAS/FXR Moto’s Shelby Turner was on a mission and soon made her way into the lead position.

Turner would continue to push each lap, trying to separate herself from the rest of her competitors. As the laps clicked off, Turner found herself headed to the checkered flag to earn her first-ever WXC class win.

Rocky Mountain Red Bear

Kawasaki’s Rachael Archer and Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s Korie Steede would battle for the first lap of the race, but Archer would be able to make the pass stick on lap two and would come through to earn second in WXC, as Steede came through to round out the podium with a third in the class.

Mark Fortner would come through first overall in the Sportsman A class, while Super Senior A rider, Delmi Molina, would earn fourth overall on the day. Davin Shike from Alexis, Illinois would also earn fifth overall from the 150 B Schoolboy (12-17) class.

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Bou unbeatable in Chalon-Sur-Saône

The reigning World Champion is yet to drop a point in 2024 after his second Round win

Toni Bou (Repsol Honda Trial Team) schooled his rivals yet again at Round Two of the X-Trial World Championship, claiming victory at X-Trial Chalon-Sur-Saône with a dominant display. On top of his game, the 17-times World Champion took Round One with just a single mark on his account, cleaned his second run and went through the Final without suffering a single fiasco. Bou finished the night with a ten-mark winning margin, just as at the season opening X-Trial Barcelona six weeks ago. But this time his closest rival was teammate Gabriel Marcelli, Jaime Busto (GasGas) five marks further back in third.

Bou took the lead of the Final from Section Two where he posted backto-back cleans and each of his rivals posted two marks. Busto held second at that stage but collapsed with four consecutive failures, while Marcelli moved into second and kept up the pressure on Bou until his victory was assured in the penultimate section. All that remained was for the Championship leader to put the finishing touches to his latest success as the only rider successfully through the biggest step of the night in Section Six. words

Behind the series’ top three, Toby Martyn (Montesa) missed out on a place in the Final as a result of a costly Section Five failure in Round One. But the Brit took fourth after the nine qualifying sections by a single mark over Benoit Bincaz (Sherco), the pair’s performances in the very first Section of the night separating them. Meanwhile Adam Raga (Sherco) suffered another evening to forget, one of only two riders to fail two sections or more in Round One ruling him out of podium contention. In fact Raga snatched sixth only after a dramatic fall from grace for Matteo Grattarola (Beta) who, after finishing Round

One just three marks from the eventual finalists, came apart with what appeared to be a mechanical problem in Round Two. Hugo Dufrese rounded out the participants with two successfully completed sections in only his second X-Trial appearance.

Toni Bou (1st): “I am very happy because tonight I rode at a high level and was very close to perfection. Even if my rivals were pretty close, I managed to score only one mark in nine qualifying sections. And then in the Final I felt even better, and I was able to take a lead right from the start. The team has done a great job and I am rightly proud of them”

Gabriel Marcelli (2nd): “I am satisfied with this second place but above all with my riding. I think I rode quite well despite the two mistakes in the last sections that ended my hopes of victory. Anyway, the points for second place are still very good for the Championship.”

Busto (3rd): “I rode very well in the first two Rounds but that all went to waste in the final when I failed Section Three. That has left me with mixed feelings. The positive side is to have remained on the podium. But now I need to get back to work to do better next time.”

words by KAYLA BOLTON photos by MACK FAINT & KEN

HILL

ROUND 4

FMF CAMP COKER BULLET SOCIETY HILL, SC

The Progressive Grand National Cross Country (GNCC) Series presented by Specialized, an AMA National Championship, concluded its fourth round of racing, the FMF Camp Coker Bullet, in Society Hill, South Carolina on Sunday, March 24. The final day of racing at Moree’s Sportsman’s Preserve saw the sun come out, but the wind would still make for chilly conditions throughout the day.

As the crowd listened to the ten seconds call, all eyes were on the XC1 Open class and when the green flag flew it was Phoenix Racing Honda’s Mike Witkowski grabbing the gas and earning himself the $250 Steel City Medical Center holeshot award. However, it wouldn’t take long for FMF KTM Factory Racing’s Dante Oliveira, who is filling in for an injured Ben Kelley, to take over the lead in the sandy conditions.

Oliveira quickly made his way to the front of the pack and was able to hold on to earn his first-ever GNCC overall win in South Carolina. Oliveira’s teammate, FMF KTM Factory Racing’s Johnny Girroir would battle wheel-to-wheel with him the entire race, crossing the line 1.2 seconds behind him to earn second overall on the day.

“I felt great off the start, took over the lead in the second turn and rode smart, charged where I could, managed where I had to, and it ended up working out,” said Dante Oliveira. “He [Johnny Girroir] kept me honest the whole race and I did what I could to stay out front, so we’re really happy and excited to get this one in GNCC.”

Babbitts Online/Monster Energy/ Kawasaki Team Green’s Grant Baylor would put in a good ride after coming through 14th on the opening lap of the race. G. Baylor would continue to push and make it all the way up to fourth overall as the checkered flag flew. At the conclusion of the race, G. Baylor was credited with third overall on the day. This was due to a one position penalty that was assessed to Rocky Mountain Red Bear Kawasaki’s Steward Baylor for being more than 25 feet off the marked course. Nevertheless, S. Baylor would come back from a ninth place start to the day as he pushed for the duration of the race to make it up towards the front of the pack.

Another rider who continued to push was Babbitt’s Online/Monster Energy/Kawasaki Team Green’s Lyndon Snodgrass as he would battle around the front of the pack for majority of the race. Snodgrass would come through to earn fifth overall on the day. Coastal GASGAS Factory Racing’s Ryder Lafferty had his best finish of the season at the FMF Camp Coker Bullet as he came through to finish sixth in XC1, and eighth overall on the day.

Coastal GASGAS Factory Racing’s Jordan Ashburn continued to battle back-and-forth and would come across the finish line seventh in XC1 and ninth overall on the day. AmPro Yamaha’s Ricky Russell would start his day running fourth and third at one point but would have a mishap while out on lap four as he would come through sixth and ultimately fall back to eighth in the XC1 class and 11th overall.

It was a challenging day for Rockstar Energy Factory Husqvarna Racing’s Craig Delong as he started the day with a good jump off the line, but he would struggle with arm-pump and stomach issues throughout the race. Delong would come through to earn ninth in XC1 and 12th overall on the day. His teammate, Trevor Bollinger, would be forced to end his day early after trying to recover from another illness. JS Sherco Racing’s Josh Strang would round out the top 10 finishers in the XC1 class after

working his way back from a 13th place start to the day.

As the XC2 250 Pro class took off it was FMF KTM Factory Racing Landers Angus Riordan earning the $250 Steel City Medical Center holeshot award and making his way into the woods first. Riordan would continue to push up front, but his teammate FMF KTM Factory Racing Landers Grant Davis was on the move and ready to battle.

Davis would make a run for the lead and pass Riordan on the fifth lap; however, Riordan wasn’t giving up that easy and on the last lap of the race would get back by Davis to earn the XC2 win. Davis would hold onto second place, as he came through just two seconds off of Riordan. Rocky Mountain Red Bear Kawasaki’s Thad Duvall would battle back-and-forth throughout the day but would be able to hold onto third in the class to round out the top three finishers in the XC2 250 Pro class at round four.

Getting the jump off the line in the FMF XC3 125 Pro-Am class was Destructo Racing/Dixie Fuel/ Total Control Suspension’s Dustin Simpson to earn himself the $100 Lojak Cycle Sales holeshot award. Simpson would find himself feeling the pressure from Liqui Moly Factory Beta Racing’s Jhak Walker early on though. Walker would make the pass on Simpson as both continued to push for the duration of the race.

Walker would come through to earn his third FMF XC3 win after leading all seven laps of the race.

Simpson would also remain consistent back in the second place position, and he kept on the lead lap, completing all seven laps. Devore Racing/KTM/FXR/SRS Suspension’s Dakoda Devore would come through to finish third in the class after running in that position for the majority of the day. Devore would try to push but was said to be feeling a bit under the weather.

Team Green Kawasaki’s Nicholas DeFeo would come through to finish 16th overall on the day and earn himself the Top Amateur Honors at the FMF Camp Coker Bullet. DeFeo came through to earn his third-straight 250 A class win this year. Husqvarna’s Jason Tino would come through in 17th, taking second on the Top Amateur podium and second in the 250 A class. Team Green Kawasaki’s Joseph Cunningham rounded out the Top Amateur podium as he came through 19th overall and third in the 250 A class at round four.

In the morning race it would be Rockstar Energy Factory Husqvarna Racing’s Korie Steede grabbing the $100 Kanati Performance Tires holeshot award and the early lead in the WXC class. Steede would lead for the first two laps but would begin to have pressure from FMF KTM Factory Racing Landers Brandy

Richards. As the two battled it out on the third lap, Richards would be able to make the pass stick.

Richards would hold the lead from there, earning her second win in the WXC class. As the white flag flew, Steede would try to apply the pressure to Richards but would ultimately run out of fuel while out on the last lap. Steede would manage to get enough fuel and cross the line ninth in WXC.

Rocky Mountain Red Bear

Kawasaki’s Rachael Archer, who was running third for the majority of the race would capitalize after her consistent run throughout the

day and make her way into second. Sherco USA/Moose/Rachel Gutish Racing’s Rachel Gutish had her work cut out for her as she came through seventh on the opening lap. Gutish would put her head down and push forward each lap clicking off the passes. Gutish would come through to round out the WXC top three finishers at round four.

Some Sportsman A riders would get into the overall mix as Chase Hayes would earn second overall behind Richards while Cameron Sisk and Cole Johnson would finish fourth and fifth overall in the race behind Archer.

TOTH TAKES THE CAJUN CLASSIC

words and photos courtesy of NEPG

ROUND 2

Camp Claiborne in Forest Hill, Louisiana was the host of the second round of the 2024 Redline Oil AMA National Enduro Series presented by Beta Motorcycles and MSR. The Acadiana Dirt Riders laid out 60 miles of epic single track through the old military training grounds.

Josh Toth is adding to his impressive resume by riding a schedule of multiple disciplines

and proving that he can win at whatever event he is racing on any bike. Riding different brands and size bikes throughout his busy schedule, National Enduros being his only full time series grabbing a win on his 350 GasGas sponsored by Enduro Engineering will help him enter the points battle for the 2024 season. Having a bit of a rough start with a bent front brake rotor in the first test, Josh came on strong by test 3 and winning the 4 final tests of the day en route to a 38 second win.

“I felt great today, the trails were awesome all day. I put down a lead after test 3 and put in a little bit of a buffer and just tried to ride smart from there and finish strong. I am stoked to get this awesome trophy and get it home into the garage.”

Said Josh talking about his day and taking home the unique handmade Swamp buggy trophy.

Babbitts Online Monster Energy Kawasaki Rider Grant Baylor swiped the second overall position from his brother Steward Baylor Jr in the final test to finish just 4 tenths of a second ahead. Grant is the defending champing and playing catch up in the points after a dnf in the first round of the season.

“I came in with just the wrong

settings and slowly got the settings dialed in for the day and put on a push at the end of the day. Good day to come in and take the second place on the day. It was a rough day out there. Glad to gain some points back after a dnf at the first one.” Grant said.

Rocky Mountain ATV/MC Red Bear Racing Kawasaki Rider Steward Baylor Jr becomes the only NE Pro 1 rider to be on the podium each of the first two rounds.

“Man, the track was fun, usually like a big turn track. I felt like I was riding good, but I would come in and see I got beat by more. Championship wise it was not terrible, but not quite what I wanted. I am looking forward to finish in the middle of the box.” Steward Said.

Finishing Fourth Overall and 1st in the NE Pro 2 class was FMF KTM Factory Racing Team Landers Grant Davis. Having a few tests inside the top 3 overall helped him build over a 2-minute lead in the NE Pro2 division.

“Training with the fastest guys all year round has helped gain some speed and I am riding good lately. I have been

working hard this year. So, it feels good that it is paying off.” Said Davis.

FMF KTM Factory Racing Team rider Johnny Girroir is still finding his enduro legs being fairly new to the series. He was able to put on a late charge to move up to the fifth overall position on the day.

Evan Smith riding a Husqvarna was able to win the opening test of the day and held on to a fifth place NE Pro1 class position and sixth overall.

Rockstar Energy Factory Husqvarna rider Trevor Bollinger was seventh overall while AM Pro Yamahas Ricky Russell was eighth overall.

Ninth overall and Second in the NE Pro2 class was AM Pro Yamahas Nathaniel ‘Bubz’ Tasha. Bubz has placed on the NE Pro2 Podium multiple times over the past two seasons.

“I was having a good day. I really like the fast smooth ones like this was. Happy to walk away with a second and I am ready for Arkansas.” Said Tasha.

Tenth overall and third in NE Pro2 was once again Nicholas Defeo on his Babbitts Online Monster Energy Kawasaki.

“I know where I need to get better, I just need to keep practicing and keep learning. I am still new to the Enduros as this was just my third one ever.” Said Defeo.

Winning the Womens Elite Division was Rocky Mountain ATV/MC Red Bear Racing Kawasaki rider Rachael Archer. Rachael won all 5 tests on the day to win by 2 minutes 21 seconds over Shelby Turner.

Enduro Engineerings Shelby Turner was second place on the day finishing second in each test of the day. Brooke Cosner finished on the Womens Elite Podium for the first time for 2024 at the Cajun Classic.

AA class top 3 saw Lane Whitmer on a GasGas win, with Trevor Hulin on a KTM in second and Huck Jenkins on a Yamaha round out the podium.

Winning the Overall A was Chase Landers, Overall B Winner was Jacob McPherson, and the Overall C Class winner was Reid Hess.

The Series will continue on May 5th in Kingston, AR for the Black Buffalo National Enduro presented by Redline Oil.

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October 12-13: 32nd Annual 58K Fall Trial (STRA)

December 7: Toy Trial

* All dates are subject to change

BOU MAKES IT A TREBLE IN NICE

words by PETE FLORES photos by X-TRIAL

The Champion takes another victory with the same podium finishers after a tie-break for second place

Toni Bou (Repsol Honda Trial Team) took his third win of the 2024 X-Trial season in Nice, winning convincingly in a very demanding Final which he dominated from the start. The 17time World Champion, who dropped just one point en route to winning the first Round, was beaten by Jaime Busto (GasGas) in the second Round after a five-mark score in the third Section, dropping his first Championship point of the season.

Victory already seemed assured for Bou after the first two Sections of the Grand Final, which saw Busto and Gabriel Marcelli (Repsol Honda Trial Team) both drop seven marks while Bou dropped only two. Thereafter Bou would drop 11 further marks and his rivals 20 apiece, and Bou was assured of victory even before starting the penultimate Section.

Second place was decided on a tie-break and was taken by Busto over Marcelli, the latter only just making the Final after struggling in the second Round. He finished on the same total as Toby Martyn (Montesa) and two less than an unlucky Benoit Bincaz (Sherco) who had a great first Round and only missed out on the Final with a fivemark score in the last Section of Round Two.

Adam Raga (Sherco) was third in the second Round but was eliminated largely thanks to a 14-mark score in Round One, while Matteo Grattarola (Beta) was seventh after a disappointing second Round and

Téo Colairo (Beta) completed the finishers in a packed Palais Nikaia.

Bou (1st): “I am very happy because I am having a spectacular and very effective start to the season. The truth is that I feel better test by test and this is very important. Today's final was very demanding as shown by the fact that I only got a zero and my rivals none. We have once again done a great job that consolidates me in first place in the Championship standings."

Busto (2nd): “The final was not good, but I am satisfied with the second position. In fact, I felt good on the bike but I failed in the final parts of

some areas. This week I hurt my leg training and I thought it would be worse. For all this, I am super happy.”

Marcelli (3rd): “The most positive thing today is the podium. I haven't felt well at all from the beginning, my arms have gotten very tired and I'm not at all satisfied with how I've ridden throughout the test. For this reason, the podium is a great reward thinking about the championship and now we have to polish some details for the following tests.”

The fourth Round of the season will be held in Geneva on May 4th – can Bou make it four from four?