Trail Pros, the organizers of the US Sprint Enduro Series and the Sprint Cross Country Series, have announced the dates for the second Annual Sprint Enduro World Championship. This exciting event will be held over Labor Day Weekend, from September 2nd to September 4th, 2023, at High Voltage Raceway in Dilliner, Pennsylvania, on the West Virginia/Pennsylvania State Line. Sprint Enduro racing is rapidly gaining popularity worldwide and is known for being one of the most accessible off-road events for spectators.
Riders of all ages, including adults and youth, are welcome to participate in the championship. The event will showcase incredible woods and grass track sections, promising a weekend filled with intense racing action.
Apart from the three-day sprint championship, the event will also serve as a training camp for this year’s ISDE Team. The team will be competing in the 2023 International Six Day Enduro in San Juan, Argentina, from November 6th to November 11th. US ISDE Team Manager Antti Kallonen will provide an introduction to the ISDE for all riders, along with a tire-changing competition sponsored by Rabaconda.
For younger riders, there will be a Stacyc and Strider Exhibition race held on both Saturday and Sunday. Participants will also have the opportunity to meet and interact with this year’s ISDE Team!
The list of confirmed participants includes:
Zach Osbourne – AmPro Yamaha
Layne Michael – FXR GasGas
Josh Toth – Enduro Engineering GasGas
Jack Edmondson (Former World Enduro Champion and 3x British Sprint Champion from the UK) – Rocky Mountain Tely Energy KTM *Pro2
Jay Baxendale (UK) – Rieju Racing *Pro-Am
Rachel Archer (NZ) – AmPro Yamaha
Cole Forbes – KTM *Pro-Am
Jason Tino – Magna1 Husqvarna *Pro-Am
USA ISDE TEAM
Taylor Robert – FMF/KTM Factory Racing
Johnny Girroir – FMF/KTM Factory Racing
Dante Oliveira – FMF/KTM Factory Racing
Cole Martinez – SLR Honda
Mateo Oliveira – FMF/KTM Factory Racing
Kai Aiello – 3Bros Hatch Husqvarna
Grant Davis – Trail Jesters Racing KTM
Korie Steede – Trail Jesters Racing KTM
Rachel Gutish – Over and Out GasGas
Brandy Richards – FXR KTM
For more information about US Sprint Enduro racing, please visit the following links:
Mani Lettenbichler wins the 2023 Red Bull Romaniacs, his fourth victory at the Hard Enduro World Championship round, finishing one hour clear ahead of Trystan Hart second for a KTM one-two. Photo: Mihai Stetcu / Red Bull Content Pool
Manuel Lettenbichler from Red Bull KTM Factory Racing has emerged as the winner of round three of the FIM Hard Enduro World Championship at Red Bull Romaniacs. Lettenbichler showcased an impressive week-long performance, securing his fourth victory at the world’s toughest Hard Enduro Rallye. He finished over one hour ahead of second-placed Trystan Hart, making it a KTM one-two victory. This win also marks Lettenbichler’s third consecutive win in the 2023 season.
In the battle for the remaining spots on the podium, FMF KTM Factory Racing’s Trystan Hart claimed a podium finish for the first time, securing second place overall. He became the first Canadian rider to achieve this feat. ECONT Bulgaria’s Teodor Kabakchiev secured third place, overtaking Billy Bolt from Husqvarna Factory Racing.
• Manuel Lettenbichler continues his unbeaten run, winning all three races in 2023
• Lettenbichler secures his fourth Red Bull Romaniacs victory
• Trystan Hart and Teodor Kabakchiev join him on the podium
Trystan Hart from FMF KTM FACTORY RACING was one of the few riders who successfully conquered the infamous final hillclimb at the finish, securing second place overall and a one-two finish for KTM. The series now moves to his home round in Canada. Photo: Attila Szabo / Red Bull Content PoolFastest in three of the four checkpoints before the service point, Teodor was on a mission. Clean and fast through the remainder of the day, he won Offroad Day 4 on corrected time and with it earned his place on the podium with third. Photo Red Bull Content PoolThere was a big fight for third place between Billy Bolt, starting with a four minutes advantage over Teo Kabachiev. After two very solid days where he went 1-2 on the daily classification, Kabakchiev had closed right in on Bolt who admitted he’d “hit the wall” during day three. Photo: Mihai Stetcu / Red Bull Content PoolSherco Factory rider Wade Young finished fifth overall, one hour and forty-six minutes behind Lettenbichler’s pace. Photo: Attila Szabo / Red Bull Content PoolMario Roman had mechanical issues on day one and two but finished strong with third-place finishes on day three and four, securing seventh place overall. Photo: Mihai Stetcu / Red Bull Content PoolGraham Jarvis, despite his damaged machine, managed to climb one of the brutal hills at the Romaniacs. The experienced rider finished eighth overall. Photo: (Attila Szabo / Red Bull Content Pool
Colton Haaker, an accomplished rider in Extreme Enduro racing, relies on a specially built Husqvarna TE300i for his races. We spoke with his mechanic, Andrew Bauer, to get the details on this impressive machine.
Despite its similar appearance to a standard bike at a dealership, Haaker’s race bike is finely tuned for the extreme challenges it will face. Bauer emphasizes that it’s the attention to detail that sets this bike apart.
Unlike some other race bikes, Haaker’s TE300i prioritizes usable power over sheer horsepower. The engine is created by Husqvarna’s Factory Services department, but many internal parts are stock. The bike’s EFI mapping can be adjusted based on the terrain and weather conditions of each event. Haaker also utilizes a FMF exhaust system for optimal performance.
In long endurance races like Extreme Enduros, the chassis setup is crucial. Haaker’s bike features WP Pro Components tuned by WP Suspension USA and Austria. This balance allows Haaker to navigate obstacles at varying speeds.
Another noteworthy aspect of Haaker’s bike is the tire setup. He uses a soft rear mousse and Dunlop gummy compound tire for excellent traction in any terrain and condition. The front tire is a combination of Dunlop MX33 and MX53 with a durable tube.
In Extreme Enduro races, protection is crucial both for the rider and the bike. Haaker’s bike utilizes a full-coverage skid plate, safety-wired nuts and bolts, reinforced parts, and specialized protective gear.
Other notable components on Haaker’s bike include WP Suspension’s Pro Components cone-valve fork, Trax rear shock, Guts Racing lightweight seat foam, Guts Racing gripper seat cover, ProTaper sprockets, ProTaper handlebars, ProTaper grips, Hunt Racing rear rotor guard, RK O-ring chain, Twin Air filters, Decal Works graphics, and Motion Pro specialty tools.
Even with all the preparation and top-of-the-line components, mechanical failures can occur. Haaker benefits from the support of Husqvarna, his team manager, mechanic, and family. With an impressive track record, it’s evident that Haaker has found a winning formula.
Italian motorcycle manufacturer Fantic has recently introduced its latest special edition models for the 2024 model-year. Known as the Black Edition, these models stand out from the rest of Fantic’s lineup with their unique blacked-out look and a range of premium accessories. Let’s take a closer look.
The 2024 Fantic Black Edition series includes motorcycles from the MX and Enduro lineups, including the XX, XXF, XE, and XEF models. These bikes feature black bodywork with fluorescent yellow striping, which gives them a stealthy appearance. Along with the sleek design, the Black Edition bikes come with a range of factory accessories for improved performance. They are also equipped with new braking hardware, including Newfren floating rotors in the front and racing brake pads on both ends.
The cockpit of the Black Edition bikes has been upgraded with a black Reikon 9014 handlebar and Domino hand grips for better grip. The bikes also feature red anodized front and rear brake master cylinder covers and an oil sump plug for visual contrast. Additionally, all the Black Edition Fantic off-road motorcycles come with a Factory Racing chain guide.
There are also specific touches for certain models. For example, the 250 and 450 XEF models have a solid rear brake disc measuring 245 millimeters, while the 125 XE has a similar rear brake with a 240 millimeter rotor. The 125 and 250 XX and 250 and 450 XXF models have revised rear braking hardware with an Openwork rear brake disc measuring 245 millimeters.
In terms of pricing and availability, the Black Edition models have been announced for the European market. Prices start from 8,590 Euros for the XX 125 2T and go up to 11,490 Euros for the XEF 450 4T. Here is a detailed price list:
Fantic MX range
XX 125 2T: €8,590
XX 250 2T: €9,490
XXF 250 4T: €9,590
XXF 450 4T: €10,990
Fantic Enduro range
XE 125 2T: €8,990
XEF 250 4T: €9,990
XEF 450 4T: €11,490
Lastly, Fantic is expected to expand its enduro lineup with the release of the XE 300 2T model. This middle-of-the-road enduro motorcycle will feature a new engine from Minarelli and is scheduled to launch in November 2023.
GasGas has revealed its new Cross Country and Enduro models for 2024. The bikes have been completely redesigned and now share the same platform as the motocross models released earlier this year. The Cross Country models now feature a closed cartridge style spring fork, replacing the air fork. Additionally, GasGas has expanded its Enduro line with two new four-stroke models, the EC 450F and EC 500F. Here is the official information and images from GasGas.
Enduro | It’s time to rock ‘n’ roll!
The new generation of GasGas enduro bikes are designed to provide an easy and enjoyable riding experience. Whether riding in the woods, on trails, or tackling extreme sections, these bikes deliver top-notch enduro performance. The new bodywork not only improves the bikes’ appearance but also provides larger and smoother contact areas, allowing riders to grip the bike tightly on challenging terrain. GasGas has expanded the Enduro line with the addition of the EC 450F and EC 500F models. These big-bore bikes are perfect for open and flowy trails and come equipped with top-level components such as Braktec brakes, WP suspension, and enduro-specific PANKL transmissions. All GasGas enduro bikes are equipped with a rear suspension linkage, ensuring smooth handling over rough terrain. With the new lighter and more powerful motors, the outgoing agile and stable handling of the previous generation is amplified.
Technical Highlights Enduro
New frame – The new frame is engineered for stability at high speeds while maintaining agility on tight trails.
New aluminum subframe – The strong and reliable subframe contributes to the bike’s ergonomics and handling.
New die-cast aluminum swingarm – This lightweight and flexible component ensures optimal performance.
New bodywork – The refined rider triangle provides larger contact areas for better control and improved grip. The eye-catching design is all red.
WP XPLOR front fork with open cartridge – The front fork has undergone technical changes to enhance performance and handling. It is now a little longer, features new settings, and remains easily adjustable by hand.
WP XACT rear shock with rear linkage – The rear shock is shorter and lighter while maintaining 300mm of travel. It features a new piston for improved comfort and consistent and progressive shock action, thanks to the linkage system.
New forged triple clamps – The triple clamps include a new steering stem that offers more flexibility for increased comfort.
New Braktec brakes – The bikes come equipped with unique GASGAS brake disks and new front and rear calipers, ensuring excellent control in off-road conditions.
Neken Handlebars – Made from high-strength aluminum and featuring a unique bar bend specific to GASGAS, the handlebars provide durability, comfort, and improved safety with a larger bar pad.
New footpegs – The larger footpegs offer better control in all conditions.
New Throttle Body Injection with separate oil tank for 2 strokes – This feature brings 2-stroke enduro bikes up to date, ensuring clean operation, crisp response, and strong power across the rev range.
New electronic exhaust control for 2 strokes – The electronic powervalve controls the opening of the exhaust ports, improving durability and increasing torque.
New motors – The new motors are lighter, more powerful, and centrally positioned to enhance overall bike handling.
New, unified motor position – All 4-stroke models have the motor mounted in the same position, improving handling across the lineup.
Map Select Switch – Adding a Map Select Switch to the four-stroke models allows riders to customize performance. It enables features like traction control, a quickshifter, and a choice of two maps for optimal riding experience. Two different engine maps are also available for 2-stroke models.
The Cross Country lineup has also been completely revamped. The five models have been built from the ground up with a focus on delivering exceptional performance both in tight and open terrain. These bikes share essential features with the motocross and enduro ranges, such as fuel injection, larger fuel tanks, and 18″ rear wheels. These upgrades make cross country riding more enjoyable than ever before. The Cross Country models are available in North and South America, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa.
Technical Highlights Cross Country
New frame – The new frame offers stability at high speeds while improving rider feedback and cornering ability.
New aluminum subframe – The subframe enhances the bike’s ergonomics, strength, and reliability.
New die-cast aluminum swingarm – This lightweight and flexible component ensures optimal performance.
New bodywork – The refined rider triangle provides larger contact areas for better control and improved grip. The eye-catching design is all red.
New hour meter – The addition of an hour meter helps riders stay on top of bike maintenance.
WP XACT front fork with closed cartridge technology – The front fork is easily adjustable by hand. It features steel springs with a pressurized oil chamber and a hydrostop for smooth landings.
WP XACT rear shock – The rear shock is shorter and lighter while maintaining 300mm of travel. It has a new piston for improved comfort and performance.
New forged triple clamps – The triple clamps are equipped with a new steering stem that provides more flexibility for increased comfort.
High-performance Braktec hydraulic clutch system – The hydraulic clutch system ensures consistency and reliable performance with minimal maintenance.
New Braktec brakes – The bikes are equipped with unique GASGAS brake disks and new front and rear calipers, ensuring excellent control.
Neken handlebars – Made from high-strength aluminum and featuring a unique bar bend specific to GASGAS, the handlebars provide durability, comfort, and improved safety with a larger bar pad.
New footrests – The larger footrests offer better control in all conditions.
New TBI injection with premix for 2-strokes – Throttle Body Injection brings 2-stroke bikes up to date, ensuring clean operation, crisp response, and strong power throughout the rev range.
New electronic exhaust control for 2-strokes – The electronic powervalve controls the opening of the exhaust ports, providing maximum power and improved durability.
New engines – The new motors are lighter, more powerful, and centrally positioned to enhance overall bike handling.
New unified motor position – All 4-stroke models have the motor mounted in the same position, improving handling across the lineup.
Map Select Switch – By adding a Map Select Switch to the four-stroke models, riders can customize performance with features like launch control, traction control, and a choice of two maps. Two different engine maps are available for 2-stroke models as well.
Full line-up: EX 250, EX 300, EX 250F, EX 350F, EX 450F
Steward Baylor Jr Grabs First National Enduro Win of the Season.
Story by Logan Densmore Photos by Mack Faint
Steward Baylor: “we did a lot of tire testing all week and ended up with a trials tires like we always run here. I think the last 7 winners here used a trials tire so that’s what we did.” Tests 2 and 3 seemed to be rockier than most years and Steward attributed the trials tire for test wins today.
Racers that came to the rocky fern infested forest of central Pennsylvania for the Rattlesnake National Enduro were meet with near perfect conditions. The event had perfect race weather with sunny skies and upper 70s temperature. The Rattlesnake National Enduro is Round 6 of 9 for the 2023 Magna 1 AMA National Enduro Series Presented by Moose Racing. Steward Baylor Jr was able to take advantage of the conditions and grab his first National Enduro win of the season.
Starting on the traditional grass track held on the Quiet Oaks Campground property where staging is, PA native Craig Delong took an early lead. Rocky Mountain ATV/MC Tely Energy Racing KTM rider Steward Baylor Jr then went on an impressive run winning tests 2 through 5 to win his 4th time at the Rattlesnake. Steward: “I have not gone this long in National Enduros without a win since I started these things, as long as I had my leg over a bike anyway. A win sure does feel nice.”
Grant Baylor maintained his points lead in the championship with a strong second place finish.
Grabbing a second place overall finish was younger Baylor brother and Babbitts/Monster Energy Kawasaki Rider Grant Baylor. Grant Baylor was hovering between 2nd and 4th place all day before finally throwing down the fastest time in the 6th and final test which was the longest of the day at 9 miles. “I just tried to have a smooth day here. I know the rocks can jump out and get you as they have to me several times here in the past.” Said Grant. Going into the last test Grant Baylor and Josh Toth were separated by 0.5 seconds. Grant said “Josh and I had a good battle going all day. I knew we were within a couple seconds going into the last test so I let it all hang out there in the last test and was able to come away with a second place and extended the points lead, so all in all it was a good day.”
Josh Toth: “It seems like there is no dirt out there, just rocks, there are no breaks out there.” Toth sits in second overall in the Championship points after finishing 3rd at the Rattlesnake National Enduro.
Third place overall was Enduro Engineering GasGas rider Josh Toth. Josh has been grabbing all kinds of podium finishes on 2 wheels. Winning Downhill Mountain Bike races leading up to podiums in the National Enduro Series. Josh is typically a threat when it comes to more technical terrain like the Rattlesnake is, so a podium here is no surprise. “It was a tough day with the course being relentless. They were saying it was a little rockier than years past and I think it might be.” Said Toth. “It seems like there is no dirt out there, just rocks, there is no breaks out there.” Josh Toth will continue to sit in Second Overall in the Championship points after finishing 3rd at the Rattlesnake National Enduro. Fourth overall on the day was Factory Husqvarna rider Craig Delong. Rounding out the top 5 overall was Coastal Racing Factory GasGas rider Ryder Lafferty. Sixth overall went to Am Pro Yamaha rider Ricky Russell.
Thorn Devlin: “I was about a half mile in and I came around a corner and I was on the ground before I knew it. I looked down and saw the rear tire spit off the rim. I rode 3 miles of the test with no rear tire and it was sketchy at times. I knew I had to salvage the time I could and then throw it down in the rocks.” Thorn was able to throw it down in the rocks and win 3 of the remaining 5 tests including the final and 6th test to finally come away as the NE PRO2 winner.
Seventh overall and 1st NE PRO2 rider at the Rattlesnake was Bonecutter Offroad GasGas rider Thorn Devlin. Thorns day was almost derailed a half mile into the first test. Shortly into the grass track portion of the first test Thorn’s rear tire came off of the rim completely. Riding the section on the rim with the tire wrapped up in the swingarm, Thorn was nearly outside the top 100 overall going into the second test. Thorn was able to mount a new wheel after the first test to then go on and start chipping away the time behind the leaders in the NE PRO2 class.
Taking top honors in the Womens Elite Class was Rachel Gutish on her OverandOut GasGas. Rachel is always tough to beat of rocky technical terrain and she proved that again today winning by over 3 and a half minutes. “I thought there was top soil here and I thought wrong.” Said Gutish. “I really like the technical stuff so the course suited me well here. I didn’t feel like I set the world on fire today, but I was just smooth.”
Top 10 Overall
Steward Baylor Jr- KTM
Grant Baylor- Kawasaki
Josh Toth- GasGas
Craig Delong- Husqvarna
Ryder Lafferty- GasGas
Ricky Russell- Yamaha
Thorn Devlin- GasGas
Evan Smith- Beta
Hunter Bush- GasGas
Jonathan Johnson- Beta
The Pro 1 Podium: Baylor-Baylor-TothThe Pro 2 podium: Thorn Devlin (middle)- winner, Hunter Bush (left)-second, Jonathan Johnson- third place in Pro 2
French off-road motorcycle specialist Shercho has unveiled its 2024 enduro bikes. The four-stroke and two-stroke lineups have received minor updates that collectively improve performance and give the models a more modern appearance.
The 250cc and 300cc four-stroke engines have undergone internal refinements, including a new magnesium crankcase, cylinder head, ignition, and clutch cover, resulting in a weight reduction of one kilogram. The addition of a gear sensor improves drivability and enables tuners to adjust mapping for the first two gears, which is beneficial for enduro racing that requires maximum traction during launches and acceleration.
All 2024 Sherco Enduro models feature a new swingarm that enhances flexibility and suspension compliance across various terrains, ensuring maximum traction and stability during acceleration.
Both the two-stroke and four-stroke models feature a fully adjustable closed-cartridge fork from KYB and a rear shock with similar adjustability. Other upgrades include new wheels, Brembo brakes, Galfer rotors, and a titanium Akrapovic exhaust system for the four-stroke models.
The 2024 Sherco enduro bikes have updated bodywork, including a redesigned LED headlight for improved visibility. The front fender has also been restyled, giving the bikes a sportier look. The models feature new graphics with Sherco’s signature blue, yellow, and gray color scheme.
Finally, KTM has announced a special edition model called the 2024 KTM 300 XC-W “HARDENDURO” for the Extreme Enduro crowd. This model comes with a range of upgrades taken directly from the KTM Hard Parts catalog. These bikes will be available at dealerships in July. Below is the official information and images from KTM:
KTM, with its long history of success in the toughest hard enduro races and the FIM Hard Enduro World Championship, has now introduced the dedicated HARDENDURO model to its outstanding 2024 KTM XC-W range.
Celebrating the most challenging hard enduro races in the world, KTM has unveiled the 2024 KTM 300 XC-W HARDENDURO, which sits at the top of the KTM Enduro model range.
Using the all-new 2024 KTM 300 XC-W as a foundation, the KTM 300 XC-W HARDENDURO has been engineered with input from top racers who take on the most extreme terrains on the planet. This ensures that the bike is the best READY TO RACE Enduro machine available, straight from the dealership.
Developed through races like Red Bull Romaniacs, Erzbergrodeo, Tennessee Knockout, and Outliers, the 2024 KTM 300 XC-W HARDENDURO is specifically designed to take on rugged terrains. It comes equipped with various special protection parts, including closed handguards, clutch slave cylinder protection, composite skid plate, and brake disc guards, making it capable of handling the most extreme racing scenarios imaginable.
In addition to a new frame, closed-cartridge suspension, refined bodywork, and industry-leading TBI technology, the 2024 KTM 300 XC-W HARDENDURO features the following additional parts:
New, model-specific graphics
Orange frame
HARDENDURO bar pad
Soft, gray ODI lock-on grips
Ribbed diamante factory seat
Map-selection switch
Factory frame protector set
Factory wheelset, featuring black D.I.D rims, black spokes, orange-anodized hubs, and orange-anodized nipples
Wrap-around handguards
Radiator fan
Orange-anodized CNC-machined triple clamps
Composite skid plate
Floating front brake disc with composite front brake disc guard
Solid rear brake disc, with safety wire and orange rear brake disc guard
Orange Supersprox stealth rear sprocket
Orange-anodized oil plug
Orange-anodized clutch slave cylinder protection
Front and rear pull straps
The brand-new 2024 KTM 300 XC-W HARDENDURO will be available at authorized KTM dealerships starting from July.
Cody Webb, America’s top talent in Extreme enduro, recently competed in the 2023 Red Bull Erzbergrodeo. After enduring injuries that interrupted his quest to reach the top step of the podium, Webb returned to the Iron Giant in good health and finished 10th. In a post-race interview with DB’s Travis Fant, he discussed his preparation, travel challenges, and his performance at the event.
Cody Webb performs during the Red Bull Erzbergrodeo 2023 in Eisenerz, Austria on June 11, 2023 // Philip Platzer / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202306110675 // Usage for editorial use only //
DB: Cody, your usual training is already intense, but is there anything specific you do to prepare for a race like Erzberg?
CODY WEBB: “It’s obviously different from any other race. It is the hardest one-day race in the world. I really try to focus on challenging terrains like old pilings or big messed up rock gardens. I want to test myself without relying on a pre-built line. I have to admit, it has been a while since I last finished the race with a strong effort. Some of the sections can be scary.”
DB: Talk about the challenges of traveling as an American and dealing with time changes and jet lag for an event like Erzberg.
WEBB: “Yeah, traveling that far is definitely not easy. Being a family man now, it’s harder to leave than before. As soon as I arrived there, I tried to adjust as quickly as possible. You have to force yourself to acclimate. This year was different because they made it illegal to walk the course before the race. It’s strange because the mine there offers tours, and almost every top rider was there practicing on sections of the course. It definitely pays off to have that extra time to familiarize yourself with the event. Unfortunately, I didn’t have that luxury this year due to my racing schedule in the States.”
Cody Webb of the United States seen during the Red Bull Erzbergrodeo at the Erzberg in Eisenerz, Austria on June 10, 2023. // Joerg Mitter / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202306100279 // Usage for editorial use only //
DB: Your teammate Cooper Abbott joined you. Did you provide any advice to your first-timer teammate?
WEBB: “I tried to give him a heads up. I told him to be cautious and brace himself for the rocks and roost coming out of the mine. This place has the worst roost, small rocks that leave welts on your body. I advised Cooper to focus on making it out of the first hills going out of the mine, as losing ground there can be costly. I also warned him about one of the scariest downhills, Carls diner. I told him to start slow to avoid any mishaps at the bottom.”
DB: How do you maintain a decent pace throughout such a long race without exhausting yourself early on?
WEBB: “This year was different for me because I wasn’t battling for the lead like in previous years. Hence, I didn’t experience the crazy arm pump and had to stop to let it subside. I started the race at a more relaxed pace and gradually positioned myself well. However, there are always unexpected scenarios. Early on, I was around 6th place behind Johnny Walker, but I got stuck with Andrea Verona, and other riders started passing me. I panicked a bit and lost some valuable positions. Considering my recent injuries, my ultimate goal was to finish the race. So, I played it smart, conserved energy in the beginning, took fewer risks, and had enough left in the tank towards the end to secure a good position.”
DB: You were the top American to finish. It’s quite a statement, considering your injuries and the fact that you conserved energy in some sections.
WEBB: “In the past, I’ve finished on the podium, but now I know where I stand. I can compete with all the guys in the top 10. If things go right, I can make it happen. Last year, around the same time, I had a wrist injury, the same one Phil Nicoletti had. I wasn’t even sure if I would race professionally again. I took some anti-inflammatory medication before the race to manage the pain. After Carls diner, the painkillers started wearing off, and I just needed to push through. I know I’m not at 100%, but I’m doing my best to prolong my career.”
Cody Webb of the United States and Taddy Blazusiak of Poland seen during the Red Bull Erzbergrodeo at the Erzberg in Eisenerz, Austria on June 10, 2023. // Joerg Mitter / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202306100272 // Usage for editorial use only //
DB: You often ride the two-stroke. Is it an advantage at Erzberg, and would you ever consider racing on a four-stroke?
WEBB: “Erzberg would definitely be challenging on a four-stroke. A four-stroke feels heavier at the front end, especially on a downhill like Carls diner. The weights of two-strokes and four-strokes are similar now, but their feel is very different. In rock gardens, which are abundant in the early stages of the race, a four-stroke might perform better. However, in later stages like Motorex Highway, a two-stroke would be more suitable. I’ve ridden the SE300 for fun in hard enduro events, and the heat coming off a four-stroke is intense. The clutches get hotter, and the bike overall runs much hotter. At Carls diner, the sun beats down on you, and the hot air from the bike’s fan blows on you. Riding a two-stroke in such conditions makes a notable difference since the bike doesn’t run as hot. Plus, if something goes wrong, you can still ride a “blown-up” two-stroke to some extent. It’s harder to destroy a two-stroke and get stranded compared to a four-stroke.”
DB: Are there any specific adjustments you make to your bike for a race like Erzberg?
WEBB: “In this race, there’s a different format compared to the US hard enduro series. Since it’s part of the FIM, no outside assistance is allowed whatsoever. At the pits, we weren’t even allowed to get anything. We had to run levers inside the air-box, zip-tied a shifter inside the frame, and carried minimal tools on the bike just in case. I wasn’t even allowed to swap my USWE water pack, although I could replace the bladder. They are extremely strict about no outside assistance at Erzberg. It’s truly a man-and-machine challenge.”
DB: We follow you on Instagram and have had the privilege of filming with you in NorCal. We’ve seen you tackle tough rides alone. Are these experiences preparing you mentally for events like Erzberg?
WEBB: Cody laughs, “Yeah, definitely. I always ride with a backpack and snacks because you never know what could happen out there, and I don’t want to be stranded overnight. Erzberg is incredible. There are sections on the course that I wouldn’t usually practice alone due to the risks involved. Yet, during the race, I have to face them on my own.”
DB: Now that Erzberg is behind you, what’s next on your agenda?
WEBB: “I’m looking forward to the final round of the US Hard Enduro series in two weeks. It’s one of our best races at a ski resort. After that, I’ll start preparing for the EnduroCross series and see what I can achieve there!”
DB: Thank you, Cody, for sharing your insights and letting us pick your brain a bit.
Italian brand Beta is well-known for its off-road models and success in the world of enduro and motocross. In the European market, Beta has launched the RX 300, a model specifically designed for competitive motocross. While the RX 300 has been available in the U.S. market since 2021, the European version comes with updated features that cater to the motocross segment. Let’s take a look at some of the key details.
When it comes to technology, the RX 300 is equipped with a 300cc, two-stroke, single-cylinder engine that incorporates several performance-oriented enhancements. For instance, the engine boasts a higher compression ratio and a square bore and stroke of 72 x 72 millimeters. The crankshaft has also been redesigned to be lighter, resulting in increased linear power and faster acceleration. Additionally, the rider can fine-tune the valve timing based on their preferences and track conditions.
The new Beta RX 300 also features an adjustable clutch that provides precise power delivery to the rear wheel. Derived from the RR models, the clutch springs offer three points of preload adjustability for easy tuning. In terms of suspension, the RX 300 is equipped with fully adjustable components from Kayaba. The front end boasts a long-travel 48-millimeter inverted fork, offering more travel than the RR 300 enduro model. Meanwhile, the rear shock has been tuned to handle motocross terrains with greater effectiveness.
As for the underpinnings, the Beta RX 300 shares a frame similar to that of the RR 300 enduro model. It rides on 21-inch front and 19-inch rear wheels equipped with Michelin Starcross 6 tires. Nissin brakes, with a 260-millimeter front and 240-millimeter rear, bring the bike to a stop. In terms of electronics, Beta has minimized the RX 300’s features to ensure simple operation. The electric starter switch is positioned on the right side of the handlebar, while the ignition kill switch is located on the left side. Additionally, the bike is equipped with a lithium battery to reduce weight.
Finally, the Beta RX 300 features restyled graphics in classic Beta colors. Although European pricing has yet to be announced, the availability of the bike is expected before the end of June 2023.
Unlock Your Automotive Passion and Explore the Road Ahead
