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Chilly’s Blog – Off To The Races

Chilly — Fri, 18 May 2012 16:15:19 +0000

Race Weekend

Okay, well I am just getting ready to head out the door to go race. We have the District 37 VCMC enduro this weekend at Gorman. It is a two day qualifier style event, we have to impound and everything. So it looks like it will be a good time.

I have the 2012 Gas Gas 300 all ready to go. I put some mousses in and added my Flexx bars. Other than that it is just stock. I think I have the jetting sorted out. Oh, almost forgot, I put the Rekluse EXP auto clutch in it too. I have not even ridden with it yet, so I need to go break the clutch in today.

Here is a quick preview of next week.

We have behind the scenes look at the THR Motorsports KX450 build. I stopped by Precision Concepts last week to get a peek at it.

You will love this one. I have an advertiser coming on board who thought maybe they would like a bikini girl in their ad. So guess who’s job it is to handle the arrangements? Here is one model we tested with. Super nice girl. Have to look at some others next week.

Here is your gratuitous eye candy for the day. These things are a piece of art, way too nice for the bike project that we are going to use them on. We will look at that project next week also. I can also tell you that this project will include the following part number - SXS09300100KIT. Does that get anyone excited?

Big 6 Gran Prix Gets Pala Round

Chilly — Fri, 18 May 2012 14:03:41 +0000

Vikings Sign With Pala Raceway

The final round of the AMA BIG 6 WEST COAST GRAND PRIX SERIES has been finalized. The Vikings M/C is proud to announce that Round 8 will be held December 1^st and 2^nd at Pala Raceway in Pala, CA. The Vikings have been searching hard for a new venue that was unique and new to the series. “We feel this venue brings a new and exciting opportunity for Big 6 and Pala”, said Jim Geddes with Vikings. The Pala Raceway has had the opportunity to host large events such as the AMA Outdoor Nationals. There is plenty of parking, exciting tracks and some new trails that are sure to contribute to an epic weekend of racing. The Pala Casino and Hotel is located right across the street. More details to follow.

The Big 6 is a District 37 Grand Prix Organization that collectively sponsors 8 race events each year. The races attract over 1,000 entrants each round with a AMA Grand Prix points paying event. For further details check out www.big6racing.com

Husqvarna Dual Sport Series Kicks Off

Chilly — Fri, 18 May 2012 13:04:23 +0000

AMA/Husqvarna National Dual-Sport Series

Presented By FMF Kicks Off This Weekend!

2012 AMA Dual Sport Series gets rolling

Saturday, May 19, will mark the start of the 2012 AMA/Husqvarna National Dual-Sport Series presented by FMF. The 16th annual Hanging Rock 200 is the opening round, and will provide riders a tour of the Zaleski, Ohio countryside with trails twisting through wooded forests and across grassy green meadows. The Buckeye Dual-Sporters will play host to the two-day event, and in doing so hope to welcome 300+ riders to the trail.

“We are really looking forward to this year’s event,” explained Bill Kaeppner of the Buckeye Dual-Sporters. “It will end Saturday at the Zaleski Volunteer Fire Department for a bike wash. We ask for a $10 donation from the riders, and the club will match whatever they give. It is the biggest fundraiser of the year for the fire department ($3,500 in 2011), and this year we are hoping to break the $4,000 mark!”

The festivities kick off Saturday morning as riders have the option of riding 100-miles of trail each day. Camping is available, and lunch is included with each paid entry. Bikes must be street legal in order to qualify to ride an AMA/Husqvarna National Dual-Sport event, and every Husqvarna rider who submits a photo of themselves on their bike at the event is eligible to receive a free Husky t-shirt from Husqvarna Motorcycles North America (HMNA).

“We are excited to be a part of the 2012 AMA Dual-Sport series,” explained HMNA marketing manager Corey Eastman. “These events are unique in that they are definitely not a race. Everyday riders can show up and expect to have a great time, all the while following a pre-determined loop that is sure to provide years of memories. At the end of the day, we want Husky owners to have an organized chance to enjoy their bikes, that’s exactly what this series does.”

The AMA/Husqvarna National Dual-Sport Series presented by FMF encompasses 25 rounds of the best street-legal dirt bike riding events in America. Featuring rides in 16 different states, there is sure to be a round close to you. Check the Husqvarna Motorcycles Facebook Fan page for up to date info on each of this year’s 25 events.

For more information on the Hanging Rock 200 visit: http://www.kaeppnerswoods.com.

2013 KTM Technical Detail Images

Chilly — Thu, 17 May 2012 15:20:38 +0000

Engine & Chassis Details

Ask Me A Question

Chilly — Wed, 16 May 2012 23:07:59 +0000

Ask Chilly A Question

Got a question or comment that is not related to a specific topic on the site? Ask it here. Just use the comment form at the bottom of the post to pose your query. I will see if I can come up with an answer that you and everyone else will believe.

Your post will be part of the comment section, so others will be able to read it and leave their own comments. If you have something that you would prefer to keep on the down low, just send me an email from the contact section.

If you have a photo to post, it needs to be a link hosted somewhere. Paste the link and then I will do the magic to make it appear as a picture.

So fire away!

Trivia Question: Do You Know….

Oversize Fuel Tanks for KTM Fuel Injected Models

Chilly — Wed, 16 May 2012 15:10:20 +0000

Add Range to Your Bike

For those looking to get some distance out of their new KTM, there are a number of options for larger fuel tanks now. The fuel pumps on the 2011 & 2012 models add some extra challenges for designers, so the tanks have taken a while to get to market.

At first the 2.25 gallon OEM tanks on the new XC-W and EXC models seem small, but with the good fuel mileage numbers, these bikes can get nearly 100 miles of dual sport riding in. The OEM tanks are designed to accommodate the emissions equipment that is underneath, so they do not take full advantage of the space available under the tank. That means there is room to grow the capacity without the perimeter of the tank gaining too much bulk.

KTM sent us the 13 litre (3.4 gallon) model, while Ben Rosenthal from Just Gas Tanks came by to show me the latest from Acerbis. He also expects the Clockwork tank to be in at any time. The retail price for the KTM tank is $299. Just Gas Tanks sells the Acerbis models for $229 (3.2gl) and $339 (5.3gl). Considering the fuel economy of the new fuel injected bikes, with the largest tank, a 200 mile range should be possible.

Here is a quick look at the tanks and the process of installing them. In general, these tanks are designed for all four stroke EXC / XC-W models (250-500) and some XC-F & SX-F models. Make sure to verify applications, there are three different part numbers for the KTM tanks, including two stroke. The Acerbis tanks will not work with the EXC emissions equipment. All of these tanks require a parts kit similar to what is shown with the KTM 13 Litre model, with new hose clamp, fuel line fitting and anchor fitting.

Limestone GNCC Race Reports

Chilly — Tue, 15 May 2012 16:29:38 +0000

Kailub Russell wins XC1, now tied with Whibley for series points
Big day for Husky as Delong and FAR team get first win
Baylor suffers broken reed in motor and crash, we are still waiting to see if he got injured
Mullins has more mechanical problems, I have asked – KTM tight lipped about issue
New faces on Podiums and strong ride for Chris Bach on New Yamaha

Photos by Shan Moore

From Husqvarna – First Win Of The Year For Andrew DeLong and Husky

Just one week after finishing a career-best third overall at an AMA National Enduro, Fred Andrews Racing (FAR) Husqvarna’s Andrew DeLong put on an incredible charge to win the XC2 class and finish an unprecedented second overall at the Limestone 100 GNCC.

Working from a dead last start on the XC2 line, DeLong pushed his 2012 TC250 past the entire pack, capturing the lead by lap two. “Stew (Baylor) and I were going so fast today,” Andrew commented. “It’s fun riding with a guy you can trust. I had to work my way to the front today, but I was on a roll, and my TC250 worked so good!”

“What an awesome day,” team manager Fred Andrews said. “I was running in and out of the woods trying to get split times on Andrew and Baylor, but when I heard the announcer say that he was only 8 seconds off of the leader, that’s when it all clicked. Andrew beat every guy out on the track, except for one… who started a minute ahead of him. Andrew’s back!”

At the end of the day the XC2 rider took the checkered flag at second overall, more than 6 minutes ahead of second in his own class. “I saw the pit boards the last few laps, but it never registered that I was that close to the overall,” Andrew said. “I was in a heated battle with Stew, and it carried us both to the front. I had no idea his bike quit on that last lap; I could hear him there the whole way to the checkers. I just never looked back and focused on winning this race for myself, and the team! I am 100% sure now!”

Andrew’s teammate, Nick Davis chose to take the day off and heal an injured knee he suffered last weekend at the enduro. “I am so proud of Andrew,” Davis said. “This is such an exciting day, and I am just happy to be here to share it with him. I will be back in two weeks for the Mountaineer Run GNCC, hopefully we can get two Husky TC250′s on the podium at that one!”

From KTM – Russell Wins Limestone 100 GNCC

Factory FMF/KTM rider Kailub Russell collected his fourth win of the season at the sixth round of the GNCC Series at the series newest Indiana venue.

Russell earned a mid-pack start behind his teammate, Charlie Mullins, who rounded the first lap in 2^nd place. Russell quickly moved through the pack and soon found himself battling with Mullins for the lead. The two riders quickly pulled from the rest of the pack while swapping for the lead through the first half of the race.

On the fourth lap while battling for the lead, Mullins encountered a mechanical issue at the farthest point of the 10.5 mile course. His team rushed to him in order to provide assistance. He eventually received the help he needed but found himself one lap down and in 13^th place when he reentered the course. With two laps left to make up positions, he set to work. He eventually made up two more positions and finished 11^th overall for the day.

Meanwhile, Russell began to pull a larger lead over the XC1 class as each lap progressed. At the end of the 7 lap race he finished over a minute ahead of the 2^nd place ride of Paul Whibley. Russell’s win moved him up in the overall point standings. Now six rounds into the series, he is tied for the championship points lead with Whibley.

KTM XC2 rider Steward Baylor suffered his first loss of the series. After working his KTM to the front of the pack from a bad start he suffered a mechanical issue while leading that cost him a lap. He eventually returned to the racing action and was able to salvage a 10^th place result. Baylor still maintains a comfortable lead in the series point standings.

Factory FMF/KTM rider Maria Forsberg dominated the Women’s GNCC class once again. She walked away with her sixth win of the series to remain undefeated in the Women’s class. “It feels great to get another win,” remarked Forsberg. “The goal is to go undefeated in the women’s class and also capture the overall win the in the morning class. The team is behind me 100% and I believe both goals are within reach.”

Honda/JG Offroad - The sixth round of the Can-Am Grand National Cross Country Series, the Dunlop Limestone 100, left its mark on the American Honda/JG Off Road team this weekend. The Springville, Indiana event was the second of three new events on the 13 stop season and while American Honda/JG Off Road/ FRE Brian Wolf and team newcomer Scott Grills showed well in their respective classes, seasoned riders Jimmy Jarrett and Nate Kanney struggled with injuries.

“Our veteran riders had a rough day today,” said team co-owner JT Bennett. “Nate came into the race day nursing some injuries from a race last weekend, and Jimmy took a rock to the face. Luckily, neither of them came out any worse for wear. Our young rider Scott Grills and Brian stepped up this weekend and put in solid rides for the team.”

XC1 rider Nate Kanney’s troubles started last weekend at a local race the rider had entered to prepare for the Snowshoe GNCC. Kanney bruised his ribs and aggravated an old back injury. Despite the injuries, Kanney made plans to compete, but after two laps, Kanney made his way back to the pits.

“I didn’t even know if I was going to be able to race yesterday,” Kanney said. “There were no broken bones and no actual serious internal injuries so I couldn’t justify not trying to race, but once I got out on the track it was just too painful. Every bump I hit was just too much. It’s certainly been a disappointing year so far.”

Jarrett had a strong start to his race, finishing the first lap in third. He kept it in the top 10 the first four laps of the race, but when a rock got launched into his goggles, Jarrett’s day ended.

Grills recovered the day for the team in the XC2 Pro Lites Class, taking his second top 5 finish of the season. Grills consistently moved his way through the ranks from 7th to 5th by the 5th lap, despite struggling with arm pump. Grills and Brad Bakken went back and forth towards the end of the race, until Grills crashed and stalled in the last lap, letting Bakken pass and pull a gap. Grills put himself back together to finish 5th. “I’m definitely feeling better out there,” Grills said. “I was able to stay pretty steady and everything came together pretty well. I don’t really have any complaints.”

Next Event: May 26-27, 2012 –Masontown,WV

Overall Results XC1 Class –

Kailub Russell – KTM
Paul Whibley
Jordan Ashburn
Thad Duvall
Chris Bach
Rory Mead – KTM
Takeshi Koikeda – KTM
Garrett Edmisten
Jesse Groemm – KTM
Steven Squire

Overall Results XC2 Class –

Andrew Delong
Jason Thomas
Jedediah Haines
Brad Bakken
Scott Grills
Cody Gragg
Michael McGinnis – KTM
Ricky Mair
Zach Nolan – KTM
Steward Baylor – KTM

Overall Results Women’s Class –

Maria Forsberg – KTM
Ashley Crouch – KTM
Hannah Otto – KTM
Rebecca Sheets
Leeann Bange
Rachel Gutish – KTM
Samantha Steiner – KTM
Samantha Fisher
Dawn Silvia – KTM
Shelby Rolen

Overall Point Standings XC1 Class –

Kailub Russell – 147
Paul Whibley – 147
Charlie Mullins – 121

Overall Point Standings XC2 Class –

Steward Baylor – 161
Jason Thomas – 118
Jesse Robinson – 111

Overall Point Standings Women’s Class –

Maria Forsberg – 120

KTM Introduces 2013 Off Road Models

Chilly — Tue, 15 May 2012 13:55:36 +0000

2013 KTM Enduro Models

Lots of new things in the KTM line for the coming year. Perhaps the biggest news is the introduction of the 2013 450 XC-F model, based on the single cam 450 SX-F of Ryan Dungey. More new motors and designs in the 250 and 350 XC-F bikes. The more enduro targeted XC-W bikes mostly carry over from 2012, but with some nice improvements.

2013 KTM 450 XC-F

2013 KTM XC-F Model Information

2013 KTM XC-W Model Information

2013 KTM XC-F Model Introduction

Chilly — Tue, 15 May 2012 11:07:55 +0000

KTM Releases Details on 2013 Models

2013 KTM 450XC-F

All New 450XC-F for this season
Major changes all around for cross country line

Here is a quick overview of some of the 2013 XC-F and XC features.

250 XC-f with all new engine, claiming 5hp gain and weight reduction
350 XC-f with reworked engine, improved performance, reduced weight
250 and 350 F motors are now die cast of more ductile material, lighter and stronger
New bodywork; fenders, shrouds, 9.5l tank, airbox
Electrical connections better protected from water intrusion
New quick connection for inline filter service
350 gets lubricated plain bearing for big end of crank, higher rpm
New 4 stroke frames
Beefier swingarm with 25mm axle
New suspension settings
New triple clamp
New handlebar
Reworked exhausts with HRS canister for 250/350
New graphics
Single cam motor for 450
Improved EFI with new injector body
Fuel tanks now interchangeable with EXC models
Newly developed 4wt fork oil
Silver Excel wheels with black spokes
Renthal 827 bar (matches 996 Twin-Wall bend)
New dual compound grips
Stronger WP radiators
DDS diaphragm clutch for 250 and 300 SX/XC two strokes
New V-Force reed block for 250 and 300 SX/XC two strokes

There are so many changes, it is hard to get caught up on it all. Stay tuned for more detailed information.

2013 KTM XC-W Model Introduction

Chilly — Tue, 15 May 2012 10:52:15 +0000

Minor Changes for 2013 off road Models

2013 KTM 200 XC-W

Enduro line up continues many of the improvements debuted on 2012 models.

48mm WP open chamber forks and PDS shock
Newly developed 4wt fork oil, revised valving for more constant damping feel
New triple clamp with 20mm offset
New GIANT 7050 aluminium rims with black spokes
9.5 l tanks
Four strokes get easy access to inline fuel filter, now at quick connect fitting
Neken bars with new dual compound grips
Body work carries over from 2012 models
New 42mm throttle body for 250XCF-w
Better water protection for electronics
New light weight die cast cases for 350, more ductile and saves .4kg
New light weight balancer shaft system for 450 & 500
Reworked electric starter for weight reduction
New electric starter system for 200, as well as new head design
250/300 get DDC diaphragm clutch, new V-Force reed block and new starter motor