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Honda's Gabriel Marcelli earns his first-ever win in the TrialGP class at round 6 in Rhode Island, USA. Marcelli beat out teammate Toni Bou by a solid 11-point margin (Marcelli: 23 points, Bou: 34 points).
Repsol
BELOW : Repsol Honda's Gabriel Marcelli was elated to celebrate his first-ever win in the TrialGP class at the TrialGP USA in Rhode Island. Photo: Pep Segales
KEVIN BENAVIDES ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT FROM MOTORCYCLE RACING
Two-time Dakar Rally champion Kevin Benavides has announced his decision to retire from professional motorcycle racing, bringing an end to an outstanding career in the sport. Kevin’s retirement marks the conclusion of a successful five-year partnership with Red Bull KTM Factory Racing – a period defined by hard-fought victories, unforgettable moments, and shared success at the very highest level of rally-raid competition.
Kevin joined Red Bull KTM Factory Racing in 2021, fresh from winning his first Dakar title earlier that year. He quickly added to his legacy with a second Dakar victory in 2023, this time aboard the KTM 450 RALLY, etching his name even deeper into the sport’s history. In what would be his final Dakar appearance in 2025, Kevin raced alongside his brother Luciano, making a longheld dream of competing together on the same team a reality.
KTM would like to express its sincere thanks to Kevin for his professionalism, dedication, and passion over the past five years. He has been an integral part of the rally team and will always be a valued member of the KTM family.
KEVIN BENAVIDES: “Today is not an easy day, but it’s definitely a special one. After so many years of racing – riding motorcycles since I was three, crossing the toughest terrains on Earth, experiencing victories, crashes, and life-changing lessons –I’ve made one of the hardest decisions of my life: to bring my professional motorcycle racing career to an end. Saying goodbye to the bike feels like letting go of a part of myself, but I do so with pride. From Salta, Argentina, to the world, becoming a factory rider, winning the Dakar twice, and making history in rally and
Argentine sport – these were dreams that once seemed impossible. This isn’t how I imagined retiring, but my injury prevents me from competing at 100 percent, and I’ve always raced with everything I had. Still, I’m deeply grateful for all I’ve achieved. I want to thank my family, my team, the fans, and especially KTM – for believing in me and standing by me through everything. I hope to stay close to the KTM family, support my brother Luciano, and keep contributing to the sport in new ways. Dakar taught me that there are no limits when you love what you do and stay humble. Thank you all for being part of this journey.”
BY
PHOTO
RALLY ZONE
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Benefits and Features:
Looking to show your support for ASV and Road 2 Recovery?
To celebrate our 25th anniversary, ASV has released limited-edition ASV Shirts and Hats honoring 25 years of innovation in motocross and powersports. But ASV didn’t want this milestone to be just about them.
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Join ASV in celebrating their legacy—and support the riders that need it most.
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Triumph 2026 TF 250-X
F or riders hunting for their next motocross weapon, Triumph’s updated 2026 TF 250-X is a serious contender. Purpose-built for the competitive edge and boasting race-ready upgrades across the board, this machine is anything but just another 250. It’s been dialed in for real-world track performance—refined with rider feedback, proven by podium finishes, and now sharper than ever.
The 2026 model carries forward Triumph’s aggressive debut with a new airbox and silencer combo that boosts airflow while meeting strict FIM and AMA sound regulations. Paired with updated engine mapping, the result is smoother, faster power
delivery across the entire rev range. Triumph claims sharper throttle response, quicker launches, and better corner exits—a must in today’s ultracompetitive 250cc class.
And that power isn’t just theoretical. The TF 250-X produces 47.3 horsepower at 13,500 rpm from its four-stroke single-cylinder engine, packed with high-spec components like a forged aluminum König piston, Del West titanium valves, and DLC-coated internals. Lightweight magnesium engine covers and a 44mm Dell’Orto throttle body keep things snappy, while the Athena ECU delivers traction and launch control right out of the box.
Backing the punch is a new high-performance Exedy clutch, offering more torque capacity and durability under race-day pressure. Riders can expect smoother engagement and better feel through the Brembo hydraulic system and 5-speed gearbox—complete with a quickshifter for clutchless upshifts from 2nd to 5th.
Handling hasn’t been overlooked either. Triumph has updated the KYB suspension settings for better mid-stroke control, balance, and cornering precision. The aluminum spine frame and hydroformed swingarm are designed for optimum strength and flex, paired with a race-developed
2026 Triumph TF 250-X: Built to Win, Straight Out of the Crate
linkage system that enhances rear grip under load.
Style-wise, the TF 250-X makes a bold visual statement with a new graphics scheme and in-mold decals in Triumph
Performance Yellow. But it's more than flash—Triumph includes a laundry list of factory-level components: Brembo brakes, DirtStar aluminum rims, ProTaper bars, ODI grips, and Pirelli Scorpion MX32 tires.
For those who want more, Triumph’s accessory catalog includes premium upgrades like a full titanium Akrapovič exhaust, XTrig hole shot device, gripper seat kits, and even a wireless MX Tune Pro module for real-time engine tuning and diagnostics via smartphone.
Whether you're chasing holeshots or eyeing a full season of racing, the 2026 TF 250-X is primed for riders who want a no-compromise, raceready machine straight off the showroom floor. Pricing and availability are coming soon, but reservations are open now at Triumph’s Off-Road dealer network.
Lessons Learned from the Ohio Clay of the Little Raccoon Enduro
WORDS PHOTOS
BRIAN PIERCE
The drive from Bonham, Texas to Wellston, Ohio could be done in one day, but that’s not how I roll. If I’m taking time off of work, I want to enjoy my time away as much as I can. Strapping myself into the motovan before the sun is up to stumbling out after sunset just to arrive on-site sounds gross. Sometimes it must be done, but after having to do that to get to Georgia, I’m taking my time when I can.
For this jaunt across the country, I was joined by Noah Willet. Noah is a 17 year old racer in North Texas, and he’s trying to figure out the AA speed in TSCEC. What better way to be humbled at a young age than to be thrown into the lion's den of the wet and slimy Ohio clay at the Little Raccoon National Enduro.
To be fair, when he signed up, we didn’t know we were going to get the introduction we received to Ohio clay. At the time, we, as did most of
HIGH RPM PHOTO & DIRT BIKE DREAMS PHOTO
the country, hoped the wet weekends were behind us. Alas, they were not, as we received a good amount of rain Saturday evening that turned the dusty Ohio singletrack into an eye-opening experience for us Buckeye Newbs.
MY FIRST MISTAKE
So far this year racing the National Enduros I have had decent learnings at every round. That’s part of what this year has been about and the videos I am creating, new experiences and knowledge. Learning from others' experiences is great because you don’t have to learn the lesson the hard way. Here’s the rub, sometimes you have to make the mistake yourself to learn from it.
Before this event, I was texting with Barry Hawk about tire choice. He has continued to support the AT82 front tire for OH and PA, going so far as to troll me online about it (it’s Barry Hawk, I’m cool with it).
I gave in, purchasing an AT82 front tire from Adventure Moto and mounting it up with my Rabaconda. During these tire discussions, we also talked through the MX34 rear I had on, saying it’s probably not the worst, but also not the best. When I gave it a quick look, I remember saying “ok, it’s got one more ride in it”. What a dummy.
If I were going out for a ride with some buddies, the tire would have been fine. But that’s not what this weekend was about. This weekend was about driving over 1,000 miles to race my dirt bike, to give my best effort. The condition this MX34 was in wasn’t up to that task. What made matters worse for the rear tire's condition was the rain that came in Saturday evening. It set me up to struggle with traction more than those smart enough to at least have a new rear tire on. At this point, any new rear tire would have been better than a “one more ride in it” MX34.
Lesson Learned. Save more money and buy new tires when it matters how you want to perform at a race.
BOILING MY CLUTCH
As mud accumulated on the bike, and airflow seemed to be non-existent in the Ohio woods, I started to get a weird popping sound from the bike. Then with about two miles left in test 4 I noticed the clutch lever felt weird. I started having to pull it all the way to the handlebar, getting little disengagement of the clutch, so I had to pay attention to roll speed.
As I was trying to exit the 4th test section, the check out chute was so tight the bike wouldn’t stay running. I finally succumbed to pushing the bike through the rest of the chute to make sure I got scored. After exiting the woods, I asked a few different friendly faces at the rider support area if I could get a bottle of ice water for my bike and body. Some of the
water went on the clutch slave cylinder, some went on the clutch cover, and the rest went onto my neck and back. The bike wasn’t the only piece of machinery that needed cooling off. This middle aged rider was starting to feel the humidity and heat like the GasGas was.
This is another tough lesson I learned. I know how to bleed a clutch, and I know when to do it, I just didn’t. It was one of those maintenance items I was waiting for a sign to work on. This makes no sense thinking about it, because like nutrition, if you wait for the problems to arise, you’re already behind the issue when it pops up.
As with the rear tire, there was no excuse. I was driving across the country to race my dirt bike, I should have prepared the bike and the body for the task at hand. After the packedon Georgia clay from the Cherokee National Enduro, I should have known the clutch and brakes needed some love.
Coming into the Rattlesnake National Enduro, I’m wondering what other bike issues will arise that I am currently not thinking about. Who’s taking bets?
THE TECHNICAL NATURE OF SLICK OHIO CLAY
If you haven’t read my Ode to Test 6, the A Only test, please do. It showcases just how steep, slick, and technical this test was at the end of the day for us A racers. Truthfully, I felt like a beginner all over again.
The way I’ve been riding the four stroke at the technical races this year showcases that I haven’t gotten comfortable on the platform yet. The power is great, but it’s the physical nature of the bike that I haven’t adapted well to. The bike is heavier, period. In a technical situation, there are times where you will need to man-handle the machine around. I don’t have the physical stature built up yet to handle the bike for a full day of racing.
The Flying W Enduro was the first race where I felt like I rode the bike the entire time. There weren’t many times where the bike was riding me. In Georgia and in Ohio, the slick sections took a heavier toll on my upper body to control the bike. This has been wearing me down faster on the day, regardless of how I try to plan my nutrition. Now that my knee is feeling better after my High Voltage Sprint Enduro crash, I am able to
get back to more full body training. We’ll see where this gets me as the year keeps going. All the rocks in PA are going to make that event heavy on bike control. I’ll need to ride smart, attacking in a controlled manner so I can carry speed through the trails.
THANK YOU APPALACHIAN
DIRT RIDERS!
The Little Raccoon Enduro was an awesome event. It
was well marked, technical, and challenging. I’d love the opportunity to race it again. If that does come to fruition though, I’ll have two new tires, and I’ll probably be on a two stroke
Go Anywhere,
The RS models are infused with the same pedigree found in the RR X-Pro models and are the most off-road worthy dual sports on the market. Its slim profile gives the rider confidence due to the agile feeling. Competitive on/off road motorcycles while maintaining a 50 state street legal status. This enables the rider to connect trails for even more riding and fun. The Go Anywhere, Do Anything dual sport!
Instrumental in the safe and smooth running of the Paulo Duarte FIM EnduroGP World Championship, FIM Race Director Pedro Mariano is strongly involved with organising each round of the championship.
From racers to team managers, organisers and promoter, Pedro has been a familiar face to all within the Paulo Duarte FIM EnduroGP World Championship paddock for over 15 years now. Constantly liaising with everyone, it’s his responsibility to deliver safe racing at the high standard of an FIM World Championship.
Born and raised in Portugal, where he calls Lisbon home, the former forest engineer and professional basketball player has been deeply rooted in enduro for over three decades now. From rider to sports official, both within the Portuguese Motorcycling Federation (FMP) and the International Motorcycling Federation (FIM), we took five minutes with Pedro to learn more about his role in EnduroGP, and how as a teenager he had to hide his enduro bike from his mother…
ENDUROGP : Pedro, tell us how your connection to enduro began, we hear it’s somewhat unconventional!
PEDRO MARIANO: “I started riding at 17. My mother, trying to avoid buying me a Casal Boss, which was everyone’s dream back then, or a DT50, gave me a Moto 4 instead! It cost four times as much
Pedro Mariano
LIFE AS THE ENDUROGP FIM RACE DIRECTOR
COURTESY ENDUROGP WORDS & PHOTOS
but had four wheels and, according to her, was safer. So I used that to go to school and for other activities. My first real motorcycle came thanks to the Lousã Enduro event. I bought it in Leiria, but kept it hidden at my uncle’s house in Lousã so my parents wouldn’t find out. I used to ride it on weekends whenever I was there!”
GP : When did the bug for racing take hold?
PM: “In 1990. At the time, I was a professional basketball player in the first division, but motorbikes, especially enduro, always fascinated me. A close friend from Lousã lent me a bike for the first enduro event held there. I decided to take the challenge and entered the
race. I didn’t win, but I did set the best time on all the special tests. However, I arrived four minutes early at the final checkpoint and was penalised. I ended up almost last in my class. In total, I raced enduro for nine years before moving to rally raid and finishing up in Moto 4.”
GP : How did you transition from rider to federation official at FMP and then FIM?
PM: “Unfortunately, I had to stop racing in 2000 due to health issues. I was hospitalised for two years and it was a complicated period. The current FIM President already knew me from my participation in the national enduro team, where I raced in three 6DAYS® FIM Enduro of Nations (ISDE). When a new board took over the FMP, I was invited by Eng. António Pocinho to lead the Enduro Commission in 2001. Later, when Jorge Viegas returned to the presidency, he invited me to Lisbon to serve as his Secretary General. I held both roles simultaneously.”
GP : And your journey at the FIM?
PM: “I started at the FIM around 2002/2003, joining the Environmental Commission, where I remained for two years. During that time, I helped create the first environmental training materials and the first environmental exam, along with two British colleagues. I always had a strong interest in the Enduro Commission, but FIM’s internal rules only allowed one representative per national federation per commission. Once that changed, I immediately moved to the Enduro Commission, where I still serve today.”
GP : When did you begin serving as the FIM Race Director?
PM: “In 2009, when Portugal hosted the 6DAYS® FIM Enduro of Nations (ISDE), a new Commission Director introduced the idea of having permanent FIM representatives
at each event. That’s how the roles of Race Director and Track Inspector were created. I’ve been the Race Director ever since, going on 15 years now. The Track Inspector has changed twice, with Maurizio Micheluz currently in charge. Our roles are crucial, not just in representing the FIM and the riders, but in supporting local organisers.”
GP : What tasks and jobs are involved in the role of FIM Race Director?
PM: “Work starts months before the event, analysing the supplementary regulations. We address any concerns with the organisers and follow up with on-site inspections, led by Maurizio. While he focuses on the course and special tests, my responsibility is to ensure that the regulations and FIM standards are fully applied and to manage all administrative and operational aspects during the event. Close coordination with the Clerk of the Course is essential. That’s why I insist on having them with me throughout the race, especially when fast decisions are needed during crises, such as weather-related disruptions, penalties or schedule changes. These decisions must be made quickly, and once made, they have to be followed through. They’re not always perfect, but the priority is always safety and fairness.”
GP : How has enduro evolved in terms of environmental responsibility?
PM: “Enduro has always been one of the more environmentally conscious disciplines. Since the 1990s, we’ve used eco-friendly tyres, conducted sound checks and introduced environmental
mats to catch any fluids. These are crucial since most events take place in forested areas. The FIM also launched the KISS program (Keep It Shiny and Sustainable) to promote sustainability in motorsport. If we want respect and visibility, we must act responsibly and reach those outside the sport, especially urban audiences who often criticise motorcycles. Last year, every single round of the FIM Enduro World Championship included a KISS event. I believe no other discipline has matched that. Tree planting initiatives at race venues, for example, have had a lasting impact—we’ve returned years later to see the trees we planted thriving.”
GP : Finally, what can you tell us about the upcoming GP of Portugal in September that replaces the GP of France?
PM: “The GP of Portugal in Vila de Rei is being prepared with real commitment. Fortunately, we had a club with national experience eager to return to organising. After two site visits, I believe the necessary conditions are in place to successfully replace the cancelled race. Despite the short time frame, limited budget (given the small size of the local council) and high wildfire risk, the organising team is doing an extraordinary job. We’re even preparing a contingency plan: if needed, we’ll adapt the race into a sprint enduro with urban-based special tests. This could end up being one of the surprise highlights of the season.”
The Paulo Duarte FIM EnduroGP World Championship continues with the Forsiteservices GP of Wales in Rhayader for round four on August 1-3.
ROUND 2
KTM SHOWDOWN IN THE MOUNTAINS
WINS
WORDS PHOTOS
STEPH VETTERLY SILVER KINGS HARD ENDURO MEDIA // RYAN MCCASLAND
The 2025 Silver Kings Hard Enduro proved once again why it has become a defining chapter in the FIM Hard Enduro World Championship. Held over three grueling days in Kellogg, Idaho, the event delivered a spectacle of skill, strategy, and sheer endurance, culminating in a dramatic KTM showdown between Germany’s Manuel Lettenbichler and Canada’s Trystan Hart. When the dust settled atop Silver Mountain, it was the reigning Hard Enduro World Champion, Lettenbichler, who claimed victory by a razor-thin 20-second margin—his second win in as many championship rounds.
A BRUTAL AMERICAN TEST
Now firmly entrenched as a crown jewel in the global hard enduro calendar, the Silver Kings Hard Enduro tests riders across a uniquely American landscape of steep inclines, dense forests, and brutal climbs. The 2025 edition followed its now-
classic three-day format: Thursday’s SuperEnduro-style prologue, followed by two intense offroad days across the technical terrain of Silver Mountain Resort.
While a number of top international names made the trip across the Atlantic— including Lettenbichler, Billy Bolt, Mitch Brightmore, Mario Roman, and Wade Young—it was the local hero Trystan Hart who entered the weekend with unfinished business. Riding his KTM 300 XC-W, the Canadian was determined to best the world’s finest on home soil.
THURSDAY:
PROLOGUE SPARKS
Thursday’s Super Kings
Prologue, held in front of a lively Idaho crowd, delivered a fast-paced start to the weekend. Hart was nearperfect through the man-made obstacles, finishing in second just behind Mitch Brightmore, the reigning Junior Hard Enduro World Champion. Lettenbichler slotted into third, securing a strong starting
LEFT : Manuel Lettenbichler
position for the coming mountain battles.
However, not everyone found success in the prologue. Billy Bolt, fresh off podium finishes at round one and Erzbergrodeo, suffered a mechanical failure during the final lap of the prologue. Despite setting the fastest lap times in his heat, the Husqvarna ace was forced to regroup and refocus for the offroad stages.
FRIDAY: HART FIRES FIRST
Friday’s offroad contest was arguably the most dramatic race of the weekend. With a starting order set by the prologue, the main players found themselves in an eight-rider brawl as they tackled the forested slopes and the infamous Milo Creek. Lettenbichler struck early, using the chaos in the lower sections to gain an initial lead. But Hart was undeterred.
Navigating carnage and dust, Hart steadily reeled in the German. In a thrilling final push, Hart executed a bold pass on the last hill climb, overtaking Lettenbichler in the
closing minutes to seize the win. The late-race charge set the stage for an all-or-nothing duel on Saturday.
“It was crazy with an eightway battle for most of the race,” Hart said. “I really pushed near the end and managed to take the win, which I was really happy with after a tough race”.
SATURDAY: DUEL TO THE DEATH
Saturday’s main race on Off Road Day 2 was a masterpiece of endurance racing. As expected, it boiled down to the two KTM titans. The pair
OPPOSITE : Trystan Hart
quickly distanced themselves from the rest of the field after the explosive start hill climb, initiating two hours of relentless give-and-take across the rocky spines of Silver Mountain.
Observers counted over 20 lead changes between Lettenbichler and Hart, as the duo repeatedly swapped positions on the knife’s edge of control. As the race approached its final climb, Lettenbichler found just enough in reserve to make a final push, securing the win by a mere 20 seconds—and with it, the overall event victory.
“The main race was gnarly,” said Lettenbichler. “The battle between me and Trystan was super fun—we must have passed each other 20 to 25 times! I’m happy to take the overall win and hope to come back here again”.
Hart nearly made a final move in the final moments. “I still caught him on this last hill,” Hart recalled. “He stayed on the more grassy side like 20 feet from the finish, and I went into the snow to try and pass him—which almost worked— but the ground was frozen
THIS PAGE: Teodor Kabakchiev (top), Billy Bolt (bottom)
underneath, and I just didn't get any drive. It was so close”
Despite finishing second overall, Hart’s performance was one of his finest in recent memory and marks his continued rise as a global contender.
“I honestly gave it my all,” he said. “We went back and forth all race long, but ultimately we were a little short this weekend”.
BRIGHTMORE BREAKS THROUGH
Behind the leading KTM duo, Mitch Brightmore put in an outstanding ride to finish third overall. The British rider, competing under the X-Grip Racing banner, won the prologue and backed it up with solid 3rd and 4th-place finishes on the offroad days. His result bumped him up to second in the championship standings behind Lettenbichler.
Brightmore’s rise is one of the emerging stories of the 2025 season. No longer just a dominant junior, his consistent performances are now challenging the sport’s elite.
SOUTH AFRICAN RESURGENCE AND SHERCO’S CONSISTENCY
Wade Young, looking to rebound after a disappointing opener in Wales and a subpar Erzberg outing, clawed his way back into form. His strong result on Off Road Day 2 earned him fourth overall—an important morale boost as the series enters its mid-season phase.
Sherco Factory Racing also had a solid showing. Mario Roman rounded out the top five, while teammate Teodor Kabakchiev and Sherco USA’s Will Riordan followed closely behind in the standings. Roman, ever-consistent, continues to be Sherco’s anchor rider and remains in championship contention.
BOLT BATTLES BACK
Billy Bolt’s weekend was a mix of frustration and grit. After a mechanical issue cost him dearly in the prologue, the Brit had to start Friday’s offroad stage from 15th position. Battling through heavy dust and traffic, he climbed his way to fifth, but mistakes in the technical sections saw him lose ground.
He eventually finished the weekend in seventh place—a disappointing result for the championship favorite, but one that still nets valuable points. Bolt remains third in the overall standings with 43 points.
“I never quite found my true rhythm on both offroad days,” Bolt admitted. “We made some improvements to the bike setup for the final day, which helped a lot, but I didn’t have the intensity to challenge the top guys”.
CHAMPIONSHIP OUTLOOK
With two rounds completed, Manuel Lettenbichler leads the FIM Hard Enduro World Championship standings with 64 points, extending his advantage to 18 over Brightmore. Bolt sits third with 43, while Kabakchiev and Young are tied for fourth at 39 points apiece.
The series now breaks for the summer before returning for the grueling Red Bull Romaniacs in Romania from July 22–26. Lettenbichler, a five-time winner of Romaniacs, will be gunning for a sixth title, while riders like Hart, Brightmore, and Bolt will be eager to upset his dominance.
SILVER KINGS: A NEW CLASSIC
With its mix of crowdpleasing prologue action and punishing mountain terrain, the Silver Kings Hard Enduro continues to cement its reputation as a must-watch fixture on the world calendar. The 2025 edition delivered an unforgettable duel at the
highest level between two of the sport’s fiercest competitors, showcasing the evolving depth and global reach of hard enduro.
Whether it's the icy final hill climbs, the dust-choked singletrack, or the roar of fans
echoing off Idaho’s peaks, Silver Kings has proven itself once again as a battleground where champions are made— and where even a 20-second margin can separate glory from grit.
EVENT RESULTS
SILVER KINGS
1. Manuel Lettenbichler (KTM)
SERIES STANDINGS
1. Manuel Lettenbichler - 64
2. Mitch Brightmore - 46
3. Billy Bolt - 43
4. Teodor Kabakchiev - 39
5. Wade Young - 39
6. Mario Roman - 38
7. Alfredo Gomez Cantero - 27
8. Matthew Green - 20
9. Thomas Scales - 18
10. Ashton Brightmore - 11
2. Trystan Hart (KTM)
Mitch Brightmore (GG)
Wade Young (GG)
Mario Roman (SHR)
Teodor Kabakchiev (SHR)
Billy Bolt (HSQ) 8. Ryder LeBlond (HSQ) 9. Will Riordan (SHR) 10. Alfredo Gomez (BET)
HEAT, PRESSURE, PRECISION
STEPH VETTERLY FUTURE7MEDIA WORDS PHOTOS
round 5
San Marino
Nestled in the rolling hills of Baldasserona, the TrialGP of San Marino marked a crucial juncture in the 2025 Hertz FIM Trial World Championship season. With the series heading into its final stretch, competitors across all classes arrived ready for battle against both their rivals and a course defined by brutal technicality. Over two days of fierce competition under scorching Mediterranean sun, the polished limestone of San Marino delivered surprises, upsets, and brilliance across the board—cementing the supremacy of some and reigniting title battles for others.
TONI BOU: STILL THE BENCHMARK
Toni Bou remains the indomitable force in world trials. The 38-year-old Spanish legend once again demonstrated why he's the
most decorated rider in the sport’s history. Entering San Marino with 15 wins from 16 starts in 2025, Bou added three more to his tally—though not without resistance.
Day one was a test of patience and adaptability. The dry riverbed and jagged rock formations offered minimal grip and punished hesitation. Bou’s Montesa teammate, Gabriel Marcelli, and GASGAS contender Jaime Busto looked poised to steal the spotlight. After seven sections, Marcelli and Busto were tied on 23 marks lost, with Jack Peace close behind and Bou trailing by just two. But a flawless ride through section nine brought Bou into contention, and time penalties eventually handed him the race win—his composure and strategic precision once again making the difference.
Toni Bou
In race two, Bou produced one of the weekend’s standout rides with a clean in section four, a trap that caught out every other rider except Peace. A costly five on section seven and a three on section eight opened the door for Busto to pounce. However, a time penalty for Busto leveled the scores and handed Bou a narrow win via tie-break—his sixteenth of the season.
“Today has been amazing for the team,” Bou said afterward. “In the second race I was fighting to the end with Jaime [Busto], and he was very strong. But I am superhappy and looking forward to tomorrow.”
Day two saw Marcelli seize the moment in the morning race, riding with remarkable control to secure his first-ever TrialGP victory. Bou had
TRIAL2: A BATTLE REIGNITED
If Bou’s title seems locked, Trial2 is anything but. The championship battle between Harry Hemingway and Miquel Gelabert has become the most captivating rivalry of the 2025 season.
Gelabert, riding Honda’s new RTL Electric machine, came into San Marino on a hot streak. After stepping down from TrialGP to develop the electric platform, the Spanish veteran has looked increasingly comfortable, racking up five consecutive race wins prior to Sunday.
led early with a spectacular clean in section two—where everyone else failed—but a maximum on section eleven opened the door. Marcelli capitalized, finishing on nine to Bou’s twelve.
It was a milestone for the 25-year-old Marcelli, who stepped up to the premier class in 2020 but had yet to taste victory at this level.
“It feels incredible,” Marcelli shared. “Everything came together this morning. This is what I’ve been working toward.”
Bou quickly reclaimed dominance in race two, sealing his 18th win of the season with just seven marks lost. He completed the course cleanly after a single dab on section seven, distancing Marcelli by eight points.
The weekend left Bou with a staggering 70-point lead over Busto, with just two rounds remaining. Barring catastrophe, Bou is poised to secure his record 19th consecutive TrialGP title at the next round in the United States.
On Saturday, Gelabert extended that win streak to seven. In race one, he fived section six but held on to defeat Hemingway by three. The British teenager stayed close, showing his usual consistency, but couldn’t quite match the flair Gelabert brought to the sections. Norway’s Sondre Haga completed the podium on 22—his best showing of the season—while France’s Benoit Bincaz edged Spain’s Arnau Farré in a tie-break for fourth.
In race two, Gelabert again jumped out front early. Hemingway surged late, but a mistake on the man-made rock steps of section twelve allowed Gelabert to cling to victory by a single mark. Five wins in a row now had him surging in the points.
“Today has been incredible and the racing has been amazing,” Gelabert said. “The rocks have been superslippery. I am happy with my riding—though maybe I relaxed a little too much in the second race.”
George Hemingway, Harry’s younger brother and the reigning Trial3 champ, earned his first Trial2 podium on Saturday, winning a tiebreak over Jack Dance. His performance was a reminder
TOP : Jonathan Heidel (275)
LEFT : Miquel Gelabert (256)
RIGHT: Ryon Land (324)
that the Hemingway name is becoming synonymous with top-tier British trials talent.
Sunday, however, brought a dramatic shift. In the first race, Harry Hemingway rode with icy precision. A solitary dab on section nine was his only blemish as he took a crucial win. Gelabert finished second on a tie-break from Billy Green, who showed flashes of his 2023 title-winning form.
But in race two, disaster struck for the British teenager. A maximum in section four saw him dunk his Beta into a pool of water. His bike never fully recovered. Limping through the final sections, Hemingway dropped to thirteenth—his worst finish of the season.
Green took the win on seven, followed by George Hemingway on eight and Gelabert on eleven. The results closed the points gap dramatically. With two rounds remaining, Hemingway clings to a five-point lead—a margin that could vanish with a single mistake.
“This is what championships are made of,” said Gelabert. “You stay consistent, take your chances, and wait for your moment.”
TRIAL3: LAND APPROACHES THE SUMMIT
In the entry-level Trial3 class, the season’s youngest competitors continued to provide some of the weekend’s most entertaining battles. U.S. teenager Ryon Land arrived in San Marino with a commanding lead and left even closer to clinching the title.
The 15-year-old Sherco rider from Kansas had a tough start on **Saturday**. Race one saw him finish fifth—his worst result since round one in Spain. Italy’s Fabio Mazzola took a surprise win with 28 marks lost, edging out Japan’s Jin Kuroyama and Britain’s Harison Skelton.
Land rebounded emphatically in race two. Riding with
renewed focus, he posted a dominant 22-mark total to win by five over Kuroyama. Series challenger Jonas Jorgensen took third, while Land reasserted control of the championship.
Sunday morning brought another strong showing. Land took the race one win with 13 marks, just ahead of Mazzola and Skelton. But in race two, the American’s consistency faltered. An early five in section two proved costly on a low-scoring loop, and Land couldn’t recover. Skelton delivered a composed ride to claim his first career Trial3 win via tie-break over Kuroyama. Jorgensen was third on 14, while Land settled for fifth on 20.
“Yesterday didn’t go too well for me,” Skelton said. “To bring it back today is such a great feeling—especially with it being my first Trial3 race win. It’s just been a really good day.”
Trial3 does not make the trip to the U.S., so the final championship showdown will take place at TrialGP Great Britain in September. With a 34-point advantage, Land is well-positioned to seal the crown—though he’ll need a steady finish to hold off the European challengers.
POWER SECTIONS AND TEAM MOMENTUM
In both rounds, Gabriel Marcelli owned the Power
Section—claiming bonus points and reinforcing his value to the Montesa team.
His increasing confidence, alongside Bou’s consistency, gives the team a formidable one-two punch.
The terrain in San Marino was particularly punishing: slick, sun-bleached limestone boulders with little margin for error. Riders had to blend aggression with absolute precision—any lapse in concentration meant immediate penalty. The sections were cleverly constructed, with a mixture of natural rock features and manmade hazards that tested riders across every discipline.
LOOKING AHEAD
The championship now shifts stateside for the TrialGP of USA, where Toni Bou could mathematically clinch his 19th title. In Trial2, all eyes will be on Hemingway and Gelabert’s intensifying rivalry, while Trial3 prepares for its season finale in Britain.
For the thousands of fans who gathered under the San Marino sun, this round delivered everything a world-class trials event should: fierce rivalries, breakthrough moments, and the drama of a championship reaching its boiling point.
If TrialGP San Marino was any indication, the season’s final chapters promise even more fireworks. And as always, one thing remains certain—Toni Bou continues to write the greatest story the sport has ever known.
TRIALGP
DAY 1
1. Toni Bou (MON)
2. Jaime Busto (GG)
3. Gabriel Marcelli (MON)
4. Jack Peace (SHR)
5. Matteo Grattarola (BET)
6. Aniol Gelabert Roura (TRS)
7. Alex Canales Martos (MON)
8. Pablo Suarez Jambrina (MON)
9. Lorenzo Gandola (BET)
10. Hugo Dufrese (BET)
DAY 2
1. Toni Bou (MON)
2. Gabriel Marcelli (MON)
3. Jaime Busto (GG)
4. Matteo Grattarola (BET)
5. Aniol Gelabert Roura (TRS)
6. Jack Peace (SHR)
7. Pablo Suarez Jambrina (MON)
8. Alex Canales Martos (MON)
9. Lorenzo Gandola (BET)
10. Hugo Dufrese (BET)
EVENT RESULTS
TRIAL2
DAY 1
1. Miquel Gelabert (HON)
2. Harry Hemingway (BET)
3. George Hemingway (BET)
4. Arnau Farre (SHR)
5. Benoit Bincaz (EM)
6. Sondre Haga (GG)
7. Jack Dance (GG)
8. Billy Green (SCO)
9. Carloalberto Rabino (BET)
10. Francesco Titli (TRS)
DAY 2
1. Billy Green (SCO)
2. Miquel Gelabert (HON)
3. George Hemingway (BET)
4. Arnau Farre (SHR)
5. Harry Hemingway (BET)
6. Jack Dance (GG)
7. Francesco Titli (TRS)
8. Sondre Haga (GG)
9. Benoit Bincaz (EM)
10. Pablo Echene (BET)
TRIAL3
DAY 1
1. Jin Kuroyama (SHR)
2. Ryon Land (SHR)
3. Fabio Mazzola (TRS)
4. Jonas Jorgensen (BET)
5. Harison Skelton (SCO)
6. Marco Laure (GG)
7. Alessandro Ame (BET)
8. Miquel Angel Nadal Morla (BET)
9. Oriol Garcia Campano (BET)
10. Angel Llopis Tarrega (SHR)
DAY 2
1. Harison Skelton (SCO)
2. Ryon Land (SHR)
3. Jin Kuroyama (SHR)
4. Jonas Jorgensen (BET)
5. Fabio Mazzola (TRS)
6. Alessandro Ame (BET)
7. Max Dance (GG)
8. Edio Poncia (BET)
9. Marco Laure (GG)
10. Angel Llopis Tarrega (SHR)
HISTORIC RETURN
TrialGP of USA Thrills in Rhode Island
After an eight-year absence, the Hertz FIM Trial World Championship made a spectacular return to the United States with the TrialGP of USA in Exeter, Rhode Island. Set at the rugged LeGrand Reynolds Horseman’s Area, this sixth round of the 2025 championship marked the 50th anniversary of the Wagner Cup and the 50th anniversary of the first-ever FIM World Championship Trial held in the U.S. Thousands of spectators packed the venue across the July weekend, witnessing an unforgettable double-header of elite-level trials racing— complete with championship drama, career breakthroughs, and a reuniting of the FIM and AMA.
On Saturday, Repsol Honda HRC’s Toni Bou delivered yet another masterclass in precision and control, taking a commanding victory in the TrialGP class with only 23 points—nineteen fewer than
& PHOTOS
STEPH VETTERLY WORDS
his closest competitor, Jaime Busto (GasGas). Bou’s ride was far from uneventful. After a five on section four handed the lead briefly to Busto, Bou responded in trademark fashion—delivering calculated cleans and dabs while the rest of the field struggled with the slick, moss-covered granite and tight timing. His victory placed him one step closer to a historic nineteenth consecutive world title.
Behind Bou, Busto ran into issues late in the lap, racking up 22 points in the final seven sections to finish with 33. British rider Jack Peace (Sherco), in only his first season at this level, snatched a surprise podium by edging out Gabriel Marcelli (Montesa) on a tie-break. Honda’s Jorge Casales rounded out the top five.
In the women’s division, Spain’s Berta Abellan (Scorpa) asserted her dominance. On a day when slick rocks and minimal traction tested every rider’s nerve, Abellan delivered two tactically brilliant loops, scoring 17
points in the first race and holding off Italy’s Andrea Sofia Rabino by a comfortable margin. The Italian teen fought back in the second race, leading at the halfway point, but Abellan’s calm under pressure helped her seal the win with just 16 marks— edging Rabino by one. Alessia Bacchetta (GasGas) and Denisa Pechackova (TRRS) also impressed, fighting for the final podium position.
Harry Hemingway (Beta), meanwhile, extended his lead in Trial2 following a dramatic turn of events. Miquel Gelabert (Honda), riding the electric RTL model, initially appeared to gain ground with a second-place finish behind Arnau Farre (Sherco), but was later disqualified due to a battery-related rule violation. Hemingway, elevated to fourth in the first race, returned with vengeance in race two, securing a clear win with just 15 marks. Farre and Sondre Haga (GasGas) followed in second and third.
Despite the difficulty of the terrain—exacerbated by
Right : Gabriel Marcelli
Thursday’s heavy rains— Saturday’s action proved that the USA could still deliver world-class trials competition. As Bou summed it up: “To be back in the USA is amazing. I felt better in the races than I expected to and I’m superhappy with victories in both.”
The story of the weekend came courtesy of Gabriel Marcelli, who claimed his maiden overall win in the premier TrialGP class. In a career-best ride, Marcelli cleaned section three—a towering wall of rock that forced maximums from the entire field—and kept his composure to finish the opening race just one point behind Bou. Then, in the
second race, Marcelli posted a staggering score of just eight to secure the overall day win. It was a result six years in the making for the 25-year-old Spaniard.
“I’m over the moon,” said Marcelli. “Finally, finally I’ve won and I’m super-happy. I was riding good yesterday, but I was making mistakes and I knew I could do better—and today I did.”
Bou, meanwhile, remained consistent but off-pace in the second race, finishing with 20 points—his second-worst performance of the season. Busto capitalized to take
second overall for the day with a total of 14, which now sets up a title-deciding showdown between him and Bou at the final round in Great Britain. Bou still holds a commanding 79-point lead, with 82 points available, but the momentum slightly shifted in Rhode Island.
In TrialGP Women, Abellan was again untouchable. She cruised to victory in race one with just six marks—ten fewer than Rabino—and then closed out the weekend with another controlled effort in the second race, dropping only seven. Though Rabino showed resilience, she could only manage a tie for second in the afternoon, losing the tiebreak to Pechackova. Abellan now heads to the final round with a 32-point lead and the strongest form of her career.
“Almost a perfect weekend for me,” Abellan smiled. “I’m so happy with today’s race, with the weekend, and with the feeling I have on the bike.”
In Trial2, redemption was the word of the day for Miquel Gelabert. After Saturday’s disqualification and technical issues, the Spaniard stormed back to take a double win on Sunday. He posted just nine points in the first race—beating out George Hemingway by one—and followed it up with a sevenpoint performance in race two. Farre was second and Harry Hemingway settled for third. Gelabert’s effort kept his championship hopes mathematically alive, though Hemingway retains the points lead heading into the finale.
“It’s not over until it’s over and I will fight to the end,” said Gelabert.
WAGNER CUP, AMERICAN PRIDE, AND NORTH AMERICAN SELECT CLASS
The weekend’s prestige was heightened by the awarding of the 2025 Wagner Cup—one of the most historic trophies in American trials. Named after trials pioneer Wiltz Wagner, the cup is awarded to the rider
ABOVE : Miquel Gelabert
BELOW : Toni Bou
RIGHT: (top to bottom) Harry Hemingway, Toni Bou and Wiltz Wagner, Alex Niederer (Andy Saum minder)
with the fewest points over both days. It fittingly went to Toni Bou, who was presented the trophy by Wagner himself in a moment that linked past and present in a powerful way.
Also adding to the event’s American flair was the North American Select class, which featured AMA-approved riders given the rare opportunity to compete alongside the world’s best. Trial Store USA’s Alex Niederer took top honors both days, crediting the unique FIM format as a factor that played to his strengths.
“I rode the same line in the TrialGP in 2013 when they did an Invitational class at TTC," explained Niederer. "I enjoyed this year a bunch. The FIM’s rules are a little different. The 60-second time limit for us was a little strange because we’re so used to doing 90 seconds. However, it had an advantage this weekend because I was riding really fast.
I thought the sections were good, I thought they were hard enough. There were two sections that I just really struggled with; I think if I had had 15 extra seconds, I might have been able to actually do something with them. But I was trying to rush, and the second something went wrong, you just ran out of time and at that point it was just trying to get out for a 3, especially when not many other people were making it through.
I enjoyed the whole atmosphere. I thought the Rhode Island Trials Club did a really nice job. The pits were cool – I really enjoyed the effort that all the manufacturers put in – Beta, GasGas, Honda, they all showed up with semis. I think we really left an impression on everyone with what we had to offer. I think it was a success; it was definitely a success for me. I managed to sneak the win both days, so I was pretty happy about that, and got to take home some pretty sweet trophies and stand on the TrialGP podium."
Coran Calvert finished second on both days, with Beta USA’s Sherman Smith and Michel Fortin-Belanger trading thirdplace finishes.
Payden Campbell, competing in his first-ever TrialGP event, reflected on the experience: "This was my first time both being at, and participating in, a TrialGP. It was neat to see what all was happening behind the scenes that you don’t get to see on YouTube. I wanted to be part of the North American Select class for the experience of it and the opportunity; you just can’t turn that down.
The sections were very straightforward. I actually liked the 60-second time limit because it forced you to ride instinctively and using purely technique; you didn’t have time to think about what options you had. It was gogo-go, you never had a break or a chance to grab a drink of water. It was just non-stop. As far as my performance, I realized we have a little bit to work on if we’re gonna try that again. It wasn’t bad, but if it’s going to be that pace, I’m not physically fit to run that pace.”
DIFFERENCES IN FORMAT: FIM VS. NATC
For many American riders, the biggest adjustment was adapting to the FIM’s fast-paced format. The differences were significant: just 60 seconds per section (compared to the NATC’s 90), no re-walking sections during the second loop, and strict section arrival timing. These constraints created an intense, non-stop rhythm that left riders physically and mentally drained—but also sharpened performance through forced decisiveness.
Still, most riders embraced the challenge, and organizers hope this weekend will mark the beginning of a new era. According to event materials, this reunion between the AMA and FIM is intended to be the start of a long-term relationship, with the U.S. slated to remain a key stop on
the world calendar moving forward.
A RESOUNDING SUCCESS
From the unforgiving rocks of Exeter to the global
championship implications, the 2025 TrialGP of USA delivered on every level. It was a weekend of elite athleticism, historic celebration, and community spirit. More than a competition, it was
EVENT RESULTS
DAY 1
TRIALGP
1. Toni Bou (MON) 2. Jaime Busto (GG) 3. Gabriel Marcelli (MON) 4. Jack Peace (SHR) 5. Jorge Casales (HON)
1. Berta Abellan (SCO) 2. Andrea Sofia Rabino (BET) 3. Alessia Bacchetta (GG)
Denisa Pechackova (TRS) 5. Alycia Soyer (TRS)
NORTH AMERICAN SELECT
1. Alex Niederer (BET) 2. Coran Calvert (SHR) 3. Sherman Smith III (BET)
Michel Fortin-Belanger (BET)
Felix Fortin-Belanger (BET)
DAY 2
TRIALGP
a reconnection—between continents, federations, and generations of trials fans.
Bou may be inching closer to his 19th crown, but the return of TrialGP to the U.S. was the real victory.
1. Gabriel Marcelli (MON) 2. Toni Bou (MON) 3. Jaime Busto (GG) 4. Alex Canales Martos (MON) 5. Matteo Grattarola (BET)
TRIAL2
1. Miquel Gelabert (HON) 2. Arnau Farre (SHR)
3. Harry Hemingway (BET) 4. George Hemingway (BET) 5. Billy Green (SCO)
TRIALGP WOMEN
1. Berta Abellan (SCO) 2. Denisa Pechackova (TRS) 3. Andrea Sofia Rabino (BET) 4. Alice Minta (BET) 5. Kaytlyn Adshead (SHR)
NORTH AMERICAN SELECT 1. Alex Niederer (BET) 2. Coran Calvert (SHR) 3. Michel Fortin-Belanger (BET)
Felix Fortin-Belanger (BET)
Max Glueck (SHR)
ABOVE : Berta Abellan
Storm, Snow, and Strategy HART TRIUMPHS AT THE 2025 DONNER HARD ENDURO
WORDS PHOTOS
STEPH VETTERLY CALAFIA CONCEPTS
Nestled at 7,000 feet in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, the Donner Ski Ranch in Norden, California, is known for its beauty, its brutal terrain, and above all—its unpredictability. For Round 9 of the 2025 Bullet Proof Designs US Hard Enduro Series, presented by IRC Tire, Mother Nature upped the ante, staging a dramatic summer snowstorm that turned the Donner Hard Enduro into one of the most unforgettable events in series history.
Slated as the final round of the AMA West Hard Enduro Championship, presented by Klim, and a key part of Brian Garrahan’s Donner Challenge weekend, this year’s edition of Donner featured an extraordinary combination of extreme weather, tight racing, and championship implications. And at the center of it all was FMF KTM Factory Racing’s Trystan Hart, who not only battled the elements and a relentless Cody Webb but also solidified his dominance with a fifth win of the season and early clinch of the USHE title.
SNOW DELAY AND PERFECT CHAOS
Just hours before the race was set to begin, clear skies gave way to chaos as a rare Summer Solstice storm swept over the mountains. Snow and hail blanketed the high-altitude course, while lightning strikes measured within a mile of the venue forced a two-hour delay. The initial scene resembled a late-autumn alpine ride rather than a mid-June motocross event.
By the time the green flag finally waved, conditions had transitioned from dusty to tacky loam, with slick granite slabs replacing powdery climbs. While the weather initially threatened the event, the storm ironically set the stage for some of the best traction and most exciting action the Donner Hard Enduro has ever seen.
FAST AND FRANTIC FROM THE START
The starting line was a dramatic sight: rows of 20 racers spread wide across the base of the mountain. Sherco USA’s Will Riordan rocketed off the line and claimed the early holeshot, navigating the snow-covered trails ahead of the field. But being out front proved treacherous—while scaling a granite slab, Riordan failed to make the climb and nearly slid into a charging Trystan Hart. The mistake cost him the lead and, compounded by a rear brake issue, allowed Hart to move into the front spot.
From there, Hart stretched his advantage through the remainder of lap one. But unknown to him at the time, Rocky Mountain ATV Yamaha’s Cody Webb was lurking just seconds behind. Midway through the race, Webb surged forward and briefly overtook Hart on a section of trail, giving
spectators a glimpse of a classic duel.
Webb’s lead didn’t last long, though. A minor mistake allowed Hart to retake control, and he held firm through to the finish. Despite Webb’s pressure, Hart crossed the line with a 56-second lead in one of the tightest finishes of the season.
Hart later reflected on the battle: “Cody ended up catching me, and we battled back and forth. He put the pressure on me… I was superhappy to hold him off.”.
For Webb, the secondplace finish was a strong statement aboard his YZ265X, reinforcing his return to form and hinting at the intense rivalries that will no doubt continue into the series finale.
Riordan managed to recover from his early issues to round out the podium in third, finishing roughly nine minutes behind Webb. Though visibly disappointed, the young
Australian’s pace at the start showed that he’s capable of contesting the series elite when things go right.
LEBLOND’S GRITTY FIFTH
Perhaps one of the most impressive rides came from Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s Ryder LeBlond. Entering the weekend ill, LeBlond nonetheless pushed through the brutal terrain and high altitude to contend for a topfive finish.
“I entered this round really sick and I am still sick now,” LeBlond said. “As far as Donner goes, I went out there with the plan to stick to my pace, which we did, and we almost ended up with fourth, which I was pretty surprised by. I was taking it pretty easy, but didn’t make any big mistakes and was smooth, so it’s a bit of a bummer with this bad luck streak, but it’s how it goes sometimes. Ready for a little break and then onto TKO!”.
In the closing moments of lap two, LeBlond faced increasing pressure from KRD Hui’s Kamakana WaiwaioleKahalepuna. The Hawaiian rider launched a last-ditch attack descending from the iconic “Bullet Proof Designs Top of the World” section. With just seconds to spare, Kamakana completed the pass and took fourth place by a margin of 16 seconds.
Despite falling just short of fourth, LeBlond’s fifthplace finish kept his title hopes alive with one round remaining. His performance under duress
BELOW: Kamakana Waiwaiole-Kahalepuna
RIGHT : Cody Webb
also highlighted his consistency throughout the season.
CHAMPIONSHIP IMPLICATIONS
Trystan Hart’s win at Donner did more than add another trophy to his growing collection—it also clinched him the 2025 AMA West Hard Enduro Championship and the overall USHE championship a round early. Official recognition of his USHE title will come at the Red Bull Tennessee Knockout, August 8–10 in Sequatchie, Tennessee.
“After powering to P2 off the start… Hart made a pass into first position soon afterward, leading the field as the opening lap concluded,” noted KTM in their official recap. “Hart managed to build a comfortable 30-second advantage… which he would steadily increase to almost one minute by the time the checkered flag flew for win number five of the year”.
With five wins in the 2025 season, Hart’s performance has been a case study in consistency, speed, and strategy. At Donner, he combined all three in a nearly flawless ride—one that solidified his standing as the dominant force in American hard enduro.
STANDOUT PERFORMANCES ACROSS THE FIELD
The Donner Hard Enduro wasn’t just about the pros. Amateur racers and women competitors also delivered standout performances on a course that challenged even the sport’s elite.
In the Women’s division, Louise Forsley once again proved her skill by finishing several checks ahead of the next female rider, securing the top spot and further reinforcing her status as the class leader.
In the A Class amateur ranks, Niko Piazza topped the field, while Cole Clarkson claimed the B Class victory. Their accomplishments came on a day when simply finishing the course was a feat in itself, given the storm-altered terrain and high physical demand.
As the final round of the AMA West Hard Enduro Series, the Donner event also served as a celebration. Championship awards were handed out after the race, with racers, families, and fans gathering at the foot of the mountain to recognize the season’s top performers. For Hart, the double crown was a fitting end to a nearperfect regional campaign.
LOOKING AHEAD: THE TENNESSEE KNOCKOUT
With Donner in the books, attention now turns to the grand finale: the Red Bull Tennessee Knockout. Set for August 8–10 in Sequatchie,
Tennessee, the TKO will mark the final round of the 2025 Bullet Proof Designs US Hard Enduro Series. Though Hart has already sealed the championship, the event will still carry major prestige and offer the final chance for top riders to assert themselves before the off-season.
For LeBlond, who’s battled illness and adversity, TKO offers redemption. For Webb, it’s a chance to prove he can beat Hart head-to-head when conditions are equally tough. And for the rest of the field, it’s one last opportunity to step onto the podium and stake a claim in what’s been a highly competitive season.
But regardless of what lies ahead, the Donner Hard Enduro will be remembered as one of the most dramatic, dynamic, and demanding events of 2025. From the unexpected snowstorm to the tightest finish of the season, it had everything a hard enduro fan could hope for—and then some.
EVENT RESULTS
PRO
1. Trystan Hart (KTM)
2. Cody Webb (YAM)
3. Will Riordan (SHR)
4. Kamakana WaiwaioleKahalepuna (KTM)
5. Ryder LeBlond (HSQ)
6. Braxton Hintze (SHR)
7. Ryder Guest (KTM)
8. James Flynn (BET)
9. Kawelo Huddy (KTM)
10. Quinn Wentzel (RJU)
AMATEUR
1. Cole Clarkson (GG)
2. Nolan Albrecht (HSQ)
3. Blake Dillingham (KTM)
4. Louise Forsley (SHR)
5. Daigon Anderson (KTM)
6. Max Gurkivskyi
7. Travis Shelton (KTM)
8. Justin Medeiros (TM)
9. Vitalii Kachalo (KTM)
10. Tim Sleeper (KTM)
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EROUND 5
KAWASAKI CLEAN SWEEP
RED BEAR RACING SHINES AT MSR LITTLE RACCOON
WORDS PHOTOS
HEATHER WILSON MACK FAINT
nduro competitors can’t escape the rain this year, no matter what state they’re racing in. Southern Ohio got pounded with rain the night before the MSR Little Raccoon National Enduro, but racers geared up for their chance to collect a raccoon skin hat and top honors on Sunday.
The Redline Oil AMA National Enduro Series, presented by MSR and Beta Motorcycles, began with a 5-mile test, one of the shortest sections of the day. For the second test, they were on the gas for a whopping 9 miles. The third and fourth sections were 7 miles each, followed by a 6.5-mile test. The day concluded with a 5-mile test and a little more rain coming down.
OVERALL PODIUM
Red Bear Racing Kawasaki Team Green swept the overall podium for the second time this season. Josh Toth, last
LEFT : Josh Toth (34A)
year’s Little Raccoon National winner, captured his second win of 2025, beating his teammate Steward Baylor Jr. by nearly 25 seconds.
While capturing the overall is impressive on an average race weekend, Toth really showcased his stamina and determination in Ohio after he and his crew drove through the night to line up for the event. On Saturday, he competed in the AMA Pro Motocross Championship round in Southwick, Massachusetts. He captured 25th overall against the world’s most talented motocross competitors, proving his talent crosses disciplines.
The reigning champion’s day started with a second through the opening test, followed by three test wins. He closed out the day with 2-3 results in the final sections.
“I had to find that dog in me,” said Josh Toth. “I was worn out coming into today.
I talked a lot of crap on Stu [Baylor Jr.] online, so I had to back it up -- that's for sure. Just a physical day but these conditions suited me awesome. It was just very slick, one rut in a lot of it and just technical enough for it to keep you on your toes. I had to be very cautious on the throttle, and it just suited me well.”
Toth’s teammate, Steward Baylor Jr., started his day on a high note, scoring the initial test win by mere milliseconds over his teammate Josh Toth. The NE Pro1 class competitor continued an intense battle with Toth through the next three sections where Baylor Jr. took the runner-up spot through Tests 2, 3 and 4. He put his KX250X at the top of the last two tests and was able to earn second overall on the day after a mid-race tire swap.
“We did a little bit of testing this week,” said Steward Baylor Jr. “I was planning to race this tire with the rain. I had a different tire on there
for the first few sections and just didn’t really feel super comfortable. I smoked a few trees, and I was just not riding my absolute best. But we made that change and won the last two sections.”
Baylor Jr. said Toth has always ridden well at the MSR Little Raccoon National.
“Today, I knew it’d be the same. Everybody asked what my thoughts were with him riding Southwick. This guy goes to ISDE. Southwick’s nothing. That’s a walk in the park… So when that clock rolled over, I knew Josh would still be strong.”
Baylor Jr. added that it was a year ago to the day that he inked a deal with this factory Kawasaki team and was trying to build the dream team.
“I was sitting here just a couple weeks beyond now with results I had written down and shared with Kawasaki, and I said, ‘Mark my words, we’re going to mop up every national enduro podium. As long as everybody’s healthy, we will mop up every podium.’ A lot of work, obviously. I didn’t sleep for two months last year trying to build this. Everything I told the sponsors we were going to do, we’ve done it. So yeah, it’s a good year, and I’m stoked on the team.”
Younger brother and fellow Red Bear Racing Kawasaki Team Green rider Grant Baylor rounded out the overall podium, bouncing between third and fourth for all six sections of the race.
“It was a pretty good day,” said Grant Baylor. “I just made a few too many mistakes. I hit the ground quite a few times, probably five or six times out there. I was just blowing a lot of turns and making too many little mistakes. But yeah, we’re coming back and getting closer. Just not happy with third, so we’ll come back swinging and see what we can do in Pennsylvania.”
NE PRO2 PODIUM
Scoring his second NE Pro2 class win of the year, Red Bear Racing Kawasaki Team Green’s Nicholas Defeo topped his class through the first four tests. He then finished second in the final two sections. When the day finished, he was 1 minute and 43 seconds ahead of his nearest competitor. Defeo’s speed also placed him within the top five overall.
Hall Cycle’s Jhak Walker celebrated a podium result for the third time this year. Consistency was key through the first four sections, where he claimed second in class. He powered his Beta to a test win in Section 5. A fourthplace result in the last section, after three crashes in the test, ultimately earned him second in class on the day.
Will Sievenpiper, aboard his Kawasaki, rounded out the NE Pro2 class podium. He secured third in class through the first
test and landed sixth through Test 2 after a crash damaged his bike. After that, he went 6-3-4 before capturing the last test win. He also placed inside the top 10 overall, in ninth.
WOMEN’S ELITE PODIUM
The Little Raccoon National has been good to Red Bear Racing Kawasaki’s Rachael Archer, winning Women’s
Elite in 2024 and collecting the class win again this year. She scored test wins in every section of the day, except Test 5 where she took a runner-up finish. She said she had a few minor crashes but was still able to come out ahead.
Rachel Gutish secured second through the first four tests on her Rieju. In Test 5, she placed
Jhak Walker (21A), Nicholas Defeo (24A), Steward Baylor Jr (33A), Rachael Archer (20A)
third. She wrapped up the day with a second-place result in the last test, ultimately earning her second in class on the day.
Rounding out the Women’s Elite podium in southern Ohio was Enduro Engineering’s Shelby Turner. She went 3-3-3-3 aboard her GasGas, battling slippery roots and clay, before scoring the Test 5 win. She closed out the day with a third place in Section 6.
TOP AMATEURS
For the fourth time this year, Lane Whitmer has topped the AA class aboard his GasGas. His momentum for the day started with second place through Test 1. From there, he scored every test win for the remainder of the day in the AA class. His performance also earned him 12th overall.
James Jenkins of Missouri returned to the top of the 250A podium for the third time this season. With 2-1-2-1 class results in the early part of the day, he put his Kawasaki in first for Section 5 and third for Section 6.
EVENT RESULTS
OVERALL - PRO 1
OVERALL - PRO 2
OVERALLWOMENS ELITE
DAVIS STEALS THE SHOW, DRAPER SEALS THE CHAMPIONSHIP
SHAN MOORE ART PEPIN WORDS PHOTOS
Am Pro Yamaha’s Liam Draper put a bowtie on the 2025 US Sprint Enduro Series by claiming the series championship with a third overall finish at this weekend’s seventh and final round of the series at the Harleywood Sprint Enduro in Bristol, Virginia, a double pointspaying event. The event offered a variety of conditions, with Saturday being hot and steamy, while Sunday featured rain and slippery terrain.
Up-and-comer FMF KTM Factory Racing Team Landers’ Grant Davis won the overall for the weekend, winning the Pro 2 class on Saturday (third for the day behind Draper and Barnes), and then graduating to a 350F to win the Pro 1 class on Sunday. Phoenix Honda Racing’s Cody Barnes was second overall on the weekend, while Draper finished third, another minute
back behind Davis. Draper’s earlier finishes in the series were more than enough to secure the number one plate for the year.
Barnes jumped out to the early lead ahead of Draper on Saturday, beating the Yamaha rider in three of the first four tests. Draper tightened up his lines and got faster as the day progressed to move within striking distance of overtaking Barnes for Saturday’s win. When Barnes took a header in the final test, the die was cast and Draper came home with Saturday’s win, twelve seconds ahead of Barnes, followed closely by Davis.
“I started off really strong with a cross test win and then kind of was off the ball a little bit on the enduro test,” said Barnes. “That last enduro test I had a bonehead fall and lost a bunch of time and me and
Liam both gave up a bunch of time to Grant He kind of had had the day win wrapped up at that point, so he kind of made sure he didn't crash and make any big mistakes.”
Draper realized Barnes was going to be tough to beat on the Harleywood course.
“I knew I would have some work to do,” said Draper. “I was hoping to make up some time so I went into test two just seconds behind him and he ended up going down in the last test which gave me Saturday’s win.”
Another two seconds back was Barnes, who accounted for two of the test wins, in second, while Davis claimed the final test win and finished third. Rockstar Energy Husqvarna’s Craig DeLong was fourth and the top Pro Am rider, Phoenix Honda Racing’s JoJo Cunningham, finished fifth overall.
“I was was struggling on the 250 a little bit on Saturday,” said Davis. "But today I got on the 350, my first race on it, and I'm pumped with how I did. me and Cody were going back and forth all day long for the overall and I'm happy to come out with the overall. I barely edged him out in the last test for the weekend so it's pretty sick to get my first day win and then and win the overall.”
Sunday was Davis’ day. The young KTM rider won three of the six tests, topping Barnes by 11 seconds, who also won three tests. Draper finished third another 59 seconds back. Draper, needing only a top five finish cruised to the title.
Draper did what he needed to do to finish third but was disappointed in missing out on a win.
“I put myself in kind of a deficit in test 1,” said Draper. “Cody really put it to me by eighth seconds but I slowly just chipped away at it. We're matching each other and I knew it was going to be tough to make it up and I put a good cross test in and made-up four seconds and then two in the enduro test so I was two seconds down going into the last test. Cody ended up falling
LEFT : Craig DeLong (342) RIGHT (clockwise) : JoJo Cunningham (501A), Cody Barnes (99), Korie Steede (444W)
right off the start and he was kind enough to let me buy so I rode it in and won the day by 12 seconds.”
In the series standings the final order was Draper taking the championship with Barnes in second and Davis in third.
JoJo Cunningham won the Pro Am class, followed by Henry Symanski.
The top Amateur for the weekend with an overall win in the 250 A class was Olin Daniels.
In the Women’s Pro Division Rockstar Energy Factory Racing’s Korie Steede dominated both days of competition, beating Danielle McDonald (Yam) and Ellie Wineland.
“I knew I had to be on top of things and I knew Danielle was gonna be fast so I just tried to be smart and really hit my marks,” said Steede. “I'm pretty sure I won every test today so that's a really cool day. Honestly for me I usually struggle in the beginnings of
the day start pretty slow and this weekend I kind of was on all weekend so I'm super pumped with it and pumped to grab the championship.”
EVENT RESULTS
PRO1
PRO2
PRO WOMEN
1. Korie Steede (HSQ)
Danielle McDonald (YAM)
Ellie Winland (YAM)
1. Cody Barnes (HON)
Liam Draper (YAM)
Craig DeLong (HSQ)
1. Toby Cleveland (HSQ)
Gavin Simon (HSQ)
Collier Martinez (KAW)
JOSH TOTH EARNS SECOND CAREER
OVERALL WIN
It was a picture perfect day for racing in West Virginia as Round 9 of the Progressive Grand National Cross Country (GNCC Racing) Series presented by Specialized, an AMA National Championship, took place at Snowshoe Mountain Resort on Sunday. After three hours of battle between man and machine, plus his teammate, it was Rocky Mountain Red Bear Kawasaki Team Green’s Josh Toth who came out victorious.
As the current overall top 20 began on the first four rows of the unique live engine start, FMF KTM Factory Racing Lander’s Grant Davis alongside his teammate Angus Riordan, FMF KTM Factory Racing’s Ben Kelley, Rocky Mountain Red Bear Kawasaki Team Green’s Steward Baylor and Phoenix Racing Honda’s Cody Barnes took off and headed into the woods first off of row one. However, as the race wore on they began to have some heavy challengers with the time adjustment from each start row.
The battles continued to heat up throughout the day as Toth would make his way towards the front after starting on the second row. Toth and his teammate/team owner, Rocky Mountain Red Bear Kawasaki Team Green’s Steward Baylor would ensue in a heated
battle throughout the last lap swapping the physical lead position multiple times.
Toth looked to be suffering from some back tire deterioration, but didn’t let that slow him down too much. Baylor would physically cross the line first, but with time adjustments would not have enough distance between himself and Toth. As Toth crossed the finish line, he would be close enough to Baylor to take the Overall Win and XC2 250 Pro class win at Snowshoe. Baylor earned second overall and first in XC1 Open Pro after battling through to the very end.
FMF KTM Factory Racing’s Ben Kelley would have an early race mishap, but would continue to push himself towards the front, racing his way to a third overall finish on the day and second place in the XC1 Open Pro. Flatrock Motorclub GASGAS Factory Racing’s Jordan Ashburn put on a hard charge throughout the race, earning himself third in the XC1 Open Pro class as well as fourth overall on the day.
Rocky Mountain Red Bear Kawasaki Team Green’s Grant Baylor would finish an impressive fifth overall and fourth in XC1 after a rough day on top of Snowshoe Mountain. Coming through to take sixth overall was Phoenix Racing Honda’s Cody Barnes, while also finishing second in the XC2 250 Pro class.
Liqui Moly Factory Beta Racing’s Josh Strang continued his consistent season as he came through to finish seventh overall on the day, and a top 5 finish in the XC1 Open Pro class.
XC2 250 Pro competitors, Brody Johnson finished third in class and eighth overall while Rocky Mountain Red Bear Kawasaki Team Green’s Nick DeFeo finished ninth overall and four in the class. Rockstar Energy Factory Husqvarna Racing’s Craig Delong rounded out the top 10
PREVIOUS : Josh Toth (206)
THIS PAGE : Ben Kelley (530), Steward Baylor Jr (514), Korie Steede (444), Craig DeLong (342), Josh Strang (7),, Jhak Walker (719)
KAYLA BOLTON MACK FAINT WORDS PHOTOS
overall finishers at Snowshoe, while also earning sixth in XC1.
Unfortunately, FMF KTM Factory Racing Lander’s Grant Davis would have to stop for an untimely pit stop to replace a damaged shifter. That would see him crossing the line fifth in the XC2 class and 11th overall on the day.
In the XC3 class it was Bonecutter Off-Road/ GASGAS-backed racer Jonathan Johnson coming through to complete six laps and take the class win, his fourth of the season. Coming through to take second in the class was Marionville Powersports/Hinson/Fly Racing’s James Jenkins as he had a consistent day in the number two spot. Rounding out the top three class finishers was Beta Off-Road/Estes Motorsports/Wossner Piston’s Riley Messer as he came thorugh to finish third after battling back from a fifth place start to the day.
Earning the Yamaha Racing Snowshoe GNCC Top Amateur honors was Lane Whitmer as he battled through to finish 15th overall and take home the 250 A class win. His brother, Cole Whitmer was second on the Top Amateur podium as he came through 17th overall while earning the Open A class win. Joseph Cunningham rounded out the Top Amateur podium as he came through 19th overall and took home second in 250 A.
This weekend the GNCC Racing Series had some special friends join them in racing, as they traveled from Japan and the JNCC Racing Series. Kazuto Yano raced in the XC1 Open Pro class, finishing 11th in class and 55th overall on the day. Yoshihiro Iwai raced in the Sportsman B (30+) class during the morning race where he finished 12th in class.
As the morning bike race took off it was the WXC class heading into the woods first as Rocky Mountain Red Bear Kawasaki Team Green’s Rachael Archer would grab the early lead. Archer would
EVENT RESULTS
XC1
1. Steward Baylor Jr (KAW)
2. Ben Kelley (KTM)
3. Jordan Ashburn (GG)
4. Grant Baylor (KAW)
5. Josh Strang (BET)
6. Craig DeLong (HSQ)
7. Michael Witkowski (HON)
8. Liam Draper (YAM)
9. Kailub Russell (YAM)
10. Jesse Ansley (KAW)
XC2
1. Josh Toth (KAW)
2. Cody Barnes (HON)
3. Brody Johnson (HON)
4. Nicholas Defeo (KAW)
5. Grant Davis (KTM)
6. Angus Riordan (KTM)
7. Jhak Walker (BET)
8. Toby Cleveland (HSQ)
9. Dakoda Devore (HSQ)
10. Hunter Bush (KTM)
continue to push her way through the rugged terrain, continuing to hold the number one position in the WXC class until the checkered flag flew. Archer continues to hold the WXC National Championship points lead as the series heads into its summer break.
Enduro Engineering-backed Shelby Turner battled her way up to the front of the pack as she started in fourth and then fifth on the second lap. Turner would put her head down and continue on, making the necessary passes to get herself into second place in the WXC class. Turner would hold that position and cross the line
WXC
1. Rachael Archer (KAW)
2. Shelby Turner (GG)
3. Danielle McDonald (YAM)
4. Korie Steede (HSQ)
5. Jocelyn Barnes (HSQ)
6. Ava SIlvestri (GG)
7. Ellie Winland (YAM)
8. Carly Lee (KTM)
9. Rachel Gutish (RJU)
second in WXC, her third podium finish of the season.
Rounding out the top three overall finishers was Gary Fridley who earned the Super Senior A class win as well as a spot on the overall podium. AmPro Yamaha’s Danielle McDonald would come through to take third in the WXC class after a hard-fought battle throughout the duration of the race in the West Virginia mountains.
Special shoutout to Sportsman A competitors, Michael Delosa and Ethan Harwell who came through to finish the race 1-2. Sportsman A and B riders taken out of the overall podium equation due to their non-points paying class status.
The Progressive GNCC Racing Series now heads into its summer break, and will host the tenth round of racing on September 5-7, 2025 in Newburg, West Virginia with the Dunlop Tires Buckwheat 100 GNCC.
Collier Martinez (313)
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weave effortlessly through the trees without sacrificing stability. with multiple technical updates to the 2025 range of cross country husqvarna motorcycles, you are sure to maintain maximum comfort and traction across the roughest terrain.
Vintage Weekend with World Champion Bernie Schreiber in Indiana, U.S.A.
America’s only World Trials Champion and Scottish Six Days Trial winner Bernie Schreiber conducted his first RIDE VINTAGE two-day training weekend on May, 24/25 at Mount Wawasee Lodge in Indiana. The weekend was exclusively reserved for twin-shock machines and Schreiber, being the most successful trials rider ever from the USA, shared his wealth of knowledge and overseas experience with 20 participants attending from five states.
The vintage weekend event was hosted by Michiana Trials Team in Indiana a member club of the Michigan Ontario Trials Association (MOTA). Created on February 19, 1967, in Detroit, Michigan, MOTA has a long history in American trials, hosting American National Championships and a World Championship in 1977 of which Schreiber competed. Just two years later, Schreiber competed in Indiana at the AMA National Championship on May 26th, 1979, the same year he won the World Championship.
2025 marks a special moment for Schreiber who started trials competition 55 years ago in California. 1970 was the beginning of what later became a successful trials career overseas in the late 1970s and '80s.
Schreiber was thrilled to ride his late fathers 1972 Bultaco, which had been fully restored by Duane Tope for the occasion. Tope has a long history in vintage trials bikes, both in restorations and competition, winning the AMA/NATC National Mototrials Championship Twin-Shock title in 2023.
Schreiber treated the 20 vintage enthusiasts to his structured training format based on lessons learned in becoming a World, National, and Scottish Six Days Trials Champion, which included fundamental techniques from his book “Observed Trials” by Len Weed. Schreiber said, "It's not just skills and hard work. Everyone at the top level has great techniques, but your mindset is what makes you a winner. That’s the only
difference. Learning to ride a trials bike is not the same as learning to ride trials. You need to continue to focus on competition successes and practicing with purpose
by design. The best way to practice is to prioritize on the things you need to practice, and knowing which tasks should get top priority, then act to get maximum returns."
BERNIE SCHREIBER COURTESY
SPICE IT UP
Hey there, Cross Country adventurers! Get ready to add some new spice to your local riding crew because the 2025 GASGAS EX models are here! Picture this: high-performance motorcycles that not only let you have a blast on the trails but also elevate your entire weekend into a thrilling dirt-filled escape. Whether you‘re tearing through forests, conquering hills, or cruising through open terrain, our versatile machines are your ticket to an adrenaline-fueled rides with your buddies. #GetOnTheGas
