GasGas introduced its new lineup for 2024 in a unique way. Instead of hosting a private event for the press, the company opened its doors to the public. They organized the GasGas Spice It Up Festival at Crossodroma La Trogna in Castello, Italy. This event was different from anything seen in the U.S., with technical seminars, bike displays, music, food, and the opportunity for the public to interact with GasGas factory riders like Justin Barcia and Taddy Blazusiak. People had the chance to ride any of the 2024 models they signed up for. The event was free but quickly reached capacity.
Despite my jet lag, I thoroughly enjoyed the event. Although the bikes were new to GasGas, we had an idea of what to expect based on the models from its sister brands, KTM and Husqvarna. The motocross lineup for 2023 includes the MC450F, MC350F, and MC250F. In terms of two-stroke motocrossers, there are the MC250 and MC125. The MC85, MC65, and MC50 have yet to be revealed but will be soon. All full-size bikes feature a new chassis, and most of the engines are new as well, except for the MC450F which carries over some existing engine designs. The off-road four-strokes include the green-sticker eligible EW500F and the non-certified EC450F. The two-stroke off-road bikes consist of the EC300 trail bike, EX300 cross country, and EX250 models. Additionally, GasGas offers two dual-sport bikes: the ES500S and ES350s.
GasGas models have several equipment differences compared to KTM models. All GasGas bikes come with Braktec hydraulic systems for the brakes and clutches. Most models do not have a map switch, except for the MC125. The exhaust headpipe for most models does not have a resonance chamber, except for the MC250F.
During the event, I primarily rode the GasGas EX450F and enjoyed it. You can watch the EX450 video here. I would like to extend a big thank you to Gary Sutherlin for helping with the photo shoot. The full story will be featured in the October 2023 issue of Dirt Bike magazine.
LARRY WARD AND THE NOLEEN SIZZLER
Privateers have had a successful year in the 2023 outdoor series, but they still have a long way to go to match what Larry Ward accomplished in the 1995 Supercross series. Clark Jones at Noleen put together a remarkable effort, using a few parts from Yamaha and support from Sizzler, to help Larry secure second place in the points that year. Considering Jeremy McGrath’s dominance, this achievement was like winning. Although Ward didn’t win any mains, he finished on the podium seven times, usually behind McGrath.
The YZ250 that Ward rode didn’t have works suspension or a factory cylinder. Noleen made modifications to every aspect of the bike. We featured Larry’s bike in the July 1995 issue of Dirt Bike magazine, and our test riders, including Jim Holley, were impressed. Jim said, “I’d race this thing. It has a good controllable hit, and the suspension is well set up for me. The rear end works great, the bike hooks up better than my YZ, and the power lets me clear doubles from the inside line.”
CAN-AM LEGACY
Can-Am is finally recognizing its two-wheel heritage. With the upcoming launch of a new electric motorcycle line, Bombardier, the parent company of Can-Am, realized the success the company had in motorcycle racing during the ’70s. This includes a National Motocross Championship with Gary Jones and two Supercross Championships with Jimmy Ellis. Can-Am released several videos showcasing the Can-Am motorcycle era of the ’70s, which can be viewed here.
RM ARMY BOOT CAMP #3
Suzuki Motor USA and the Pipes Motorsports Group have announced the third RM Army Boot Camp event for riders of Suzuki RM and RM-Z motocross bikes. This event will take place on Friday, August 25th at Ironman Raceway in Crawfordsville, IN. The RM Army Boot Camp allows Suzuki RM and RM-Z owners to interact with Suzuki racers at select MX tracks across the country. The one-day event includes MX track ride sessions, bike setup coaching, tech tips from Supercross racing team technicians and pro riders from the Pipes Motorsports Group, a Suzuki product display, and food and refreshments. Attendees will also receive exclusive RM Army Boot Camp gear as a memento of their day at the track. The previous RM Army Boot Camp events have been successful, and the fourth event in the series is generating excitement. Suzuki RM and RM-Z owners are encouraged to attend these complimentary events to connect with Suzuki athletes like Ken Roczen, Freddie Noren, Kyle Chisolm, and Marshal Weltin. To register for the event, Suzuki owners can visit SuzukiCycles.com/Racing/RM-Army-Boot-Camp.
That’s all for now!
