Torsten Hallman was a serious catalyst to the expansion of motocross. In his profession he had 37 Grand Prix victories, 5 Trophée des Nations victories (1963, 1964, 1966, 1967 and 1968), 4 250cc Motocross World titles and 4 250cc Swedish National Motocross championships (1961, 1962, 1963 and 1965)
Torsten had a novel fashion which was easy, and used his whole physique to be very environment friendly whereas utilizing his legs to assist suck up the jumps. This saved him decrease, quicker and again to the bottom faster than his competitors. Five-time World Champion, Roger DeCoster believed that Hallman’s using fashion as having influenced his personal using habits.
His profession at Husqvarna began in 1960 with a full sponsorship to race the European Motocross Championships. Greeves mounted Dave Bickers received, whereas Torsten completed seventh after lacking occasions from a damaged collarbone. He improved to fourth within the 1961 250cc European Motocross Championship, with Bickers repeating as champion. Hallman was the highest factors scorer at 1961 Trophée des Nations, serving to the Swedish workforce place second behind the British workforce. Husqvarna nearly stopped bike manufacturing when enterprise waned. They knowledgeable Torsten that their bike growth would cease and that he ought to search employment elsewhere. He almost signed with Greeves however on the final minute Husqvarna administration discovered the funding to put money into an all-new 4-speed 250 2-stroke.
Torsten Hallman remained at Husqvarna and helped growth of the brand new bike whereas competing within the World Championships. Husqvarna grew to become one of many first bike producers to undertake two-stroke engine expertise.
Here’s DeCoster utilizing the leaping fashion of Torsten Hallman. Roger believed that absorbing jumps along with your legs saved the bike decrease and allowed for faster energy to the bottom.
some weeks later…
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STEW ON THIS!
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I’ve ridden loads of path with this maniac- Mark “Mental” Mangold. I took this shot of him again in 2015, enjoying within the frosting on his twin sport bike. He and I’m going again to 1974 once I met him once I working for O’Neal as a highway rep and he labored on the Kawasaki Dealership in Lancaster, CA.
Back in 2012 I spent loads of time on the Husaberg 300. Naturally the machine was a redressed KTM, and this specific unit I had labored with Bones at Pro Circuit and match it with a Showa fork and shock. My buddy Mr. Kramer snapped the pic.
It appears that motocross is the following huge factor to catch the flowery of huge European producers. Prior to Ducati and Triumph making the large announcement that they’ll each be taking MX severely, the MX scene was just about owned by KTM dad or mum firm Pierer Mobility, with Husqvarna, KTM, and GasGas all proving to be dominant within the sport.
Just the opposite day, Ducati announced the launch of Ducati Corse Off-Road, a brand new racing division devoted solely to managing the House of Borgo Panigale’s off-road exploits. This time round, it’s Triumph who has some huge information on the planet of off-road racing. Triumph Racing has introduced a three-man staff to compete within the AMA Supercross Championship in 2024, alongside the debut of the model new Triumph TF250X motocross bike.
Triumph Racing – Jalek Swoll
Three gifted riders consisting of Joey Savatgy, Evan Ferry, and Jalek Swoll can be piloting the Triumph TF250X and pitting it towards a number of the most formidable machines within the 250 class. Jalek Swoll can be racing within the AMA 250 East Regional Series, whereas Evan Ferry can be stepping up from the novice ranks to hitch Swoll additionally within the AMA 250 East Series. Jalek Swoll demonstrated a formidable season again in 2021, the place he completed fifth within the 250X West, his first 250 class win in Pro Motocross. Meanwhile, Evan Ferry loved success in Supercross Futures and Loretta Lynn Amateur Nationals.
Triumph Racing – Evan Ferry
Joey Savatgy joins the staff as essentially the most skilled racer of the three. Motocross Action stories that he hoped to get a waiver from the AMA to let him race within the 250 East/West sequence. However, it seems he was denied this waiver as a result of his success within the sport, ending within the high ten 4 instances within the final 5 years. As such, he’ll be racing in Pro Motocross. Last however not least, Mike Brown can be becoming a member of the staff as coach, offering steerage to the three racers. He’s a seasoned racer within the MX world, and is a former Pro Motocross champion.
Triumph Racing – Joey Savatgy
Triumph’s entry into the world of motocross will take a look at not simply the capabilities of the all new TF250X, but additionally the abilities, bodily health, and psychological fortitude of the racers. Being the brand new child on the block at all times comes with its personal set of challenges, particularly when you’ve a reputation as huge as Triumph to face up for. For the 2024 season, the staff hopes to complete within the high 5. The motion begins as early as January 7, 2024, in Anaheim, California.
Legends and Heroes Honoree: Mercedes Gonzales-Natvig 14-time National Motocross Champion
Mercedes Gonzales-Natvig can be within the Legends and Heroes Moto Museum sales space on the January sixth. 2024 Supercross greeting pals and signing posters. She will then be honored on the Monster Energy Main stage by Legends and Heroes; Broc Glover, and Frank Vrettas.
View her precise championship race gear, meet a dwelling icon of Motocross historical past, and go to the bikes, tools, and bikes accountable for the over 50 years of Motocross.
Dirt Bike Magazine takes you on a behind the scenes have a look at our 2024 450 Motocross Shootout, a twin sport experience on a few of our native trails, the 2024 KTM/Husqvarna Supercross staff launch, and extra! This is your probability to hold with the editorial workers of Dirt Bike Magazine and see what we’re as much as as one other journal is shipped out the door.
It was solely a matter of time. The Yamaha YZ250F dominated either side of the motocross world for years. It was wildly profitable within the professional racing ranks and a success at native tracks. It couldn’t final, although. Other 250Fs had been sooner, others had been lighter and others had been profitable championships. When the 2023 YZ450F was redesigned, it was an unofficial announcement that Yamaha would give the 250 a remake in 2024. Now, the 2024 Yamaha YZ250F is right here. There’s little or no stunning in regards to the new bike: it’s, principally, a 250 motor within the new YZ450 body. It’s lighter, it has new ergonomics, it handles in another way and runs in another way. And, it has very large sneakers to fill.
This is among the loudest bikes within the class. Only half of the noise comes from the exhaust pipe, the remaining is in your face from the air consumption.
THE RECIPE
The bilateral-beam body appears roughly just like the outdated one, nevertheless it’s totally different in most dimensions. It’s constructed from 10 aluminum items—some cast, some extruded. The tank rails are decrease, and there’s elevated rigidity within the downtube, swingarm pivot and footpeg cross-member. The motor mounts have musical-chair modifications in rigidity, and the subframe is totally new. Along the best way, Yamaha shaved off little bits of weight right here and there; the rear axle has a bigger gap within the heart, and the footpeg brackets are aluminum. The chainguide, throttle cables and gas pump all misplaced a couple of grams apiece. With the brand new bodywork, it’s obvious how totally different the bike is. The radiator shrouds and gas tank are narrower, seat top is bigger, and there’s extra room from the seat to the pegs. Just like all the time, the air filter sits in entrance of the gasoline filler, however now the airbox compartment is bigger, and there’s extra quantity within the air boot. If there’s any shock, it’s how little the motor modified. The consumption is probably the most vital replace. The mapping is new, however the cams, piston, crank and head have all gone unchanged. Only the cam chain and tensioner have been up to date for elevated sturdiness.
In phrases of weight, the modifications to the 250 aren’t fairly as dramatic as these for the 450. The new YZ250F is 225 kilos with out gas, as weighed on our scale. That’s 2 kilos lighter than it was. In the massive image now, the lightest of the 250s is the Honda CRF250R at 219 kilos. The new-generation KTM, Husqvarna and GasGas 250s are all inside a pound of one another, round 226. The Kawasaki and Suzuki are 227.
WHERE WE WERE, WHERE WE ARE
As we mentioned, the earlier Yamaha YZ250F wasn’t the quickest or lightest, nevertheless it was nonetheless one of the best in our 2023 250 MX shootout—by the smallest margin. It gave away energy to the KTM-powered bikes and the Kawasaki, however made up floor in suspension and throttle response. It additionally provided one of the best user-based tuneability with the Yamaha Power Tuner smartphone app. On the flip aspect, the Yamaha was cramped within the rider compartment.
That final level is not legitimate. The Yamaha is now the most important, most roomy of all of the 250 motocross bikes. It’s a big bike with a tall seat top and a really relaxed rider structure. Big riders find it irresistible. For most of our check riders, that alone is the most important enchancment for 2024. For smaller riders, some adjustment is perhaps mandatory. Sean Lipanovich is 5-foot-5, so he can’t contact the bottom flat-footed on just about any full-sized motorbike. The Yamaha was a wrestle for him simply to get a leg over. He would additionally require beginning blocks for a gate launch. On the observe, although, these points had been negligible. He beloved the general match and dealing with of the YZ. Beginners may really feel in another way. Tall bikes could be intimidating, however that can change into much less of a difficulty with extra time.
Another large change is within the total dealing with character. Yamahas have lengthy been identified for “rear-wheel steering.” The time period is just a little foolish, nevertheless it’s the best way now we have come to explain a motorbike that turns greatest when the throttle is open and the rear wheel is spinning. Now, the YZ responds equally properly to steering enter. You can are available in arduous, level the entrance wheel and observe out of turns with much less throttle. The bike feels lighter and extra responsive. It additionally feels busier on the entry to the flip. If you experience a Honda or a KTM, you’ll really feel proper at residence from the beginning. If you completely beloved the character of your outdated YZ250F, you might need just a little adjustment to make.
When it involves testing Yamahas, we anticipate most of our check riders to say good issues in regards to the suspension. This time, the feedback verged on hyperbole. Everyone beloved it. That goes for pro-level guys like Carson Brown all the best way to super-duper seniors like Pete Murray. Everyone got here off the observe claiming that the suspension was glorious as soon as it was arrange with 105mm of sag. Those check riders ranged from 150 to 200 kilos, which is a tremendous unfold.
In common, the YZ suspension doesn’t actually shine on low-speed, uneven tracks. As it seems, that’s probably the most troublesome situation for suspension tuners; the one factor that basically works for that’s softer springs and valving, which is simply too limiting for some other situation. The YZ is okay in mild chop, however the place it actually shines is when the speeds are increased and the bumps are bigger. It has a capability to maintain a reasonably even keel whereas it’s absorbing the most important whoops and most horrid circumstances. That isn’t to say it’s Supercross suspension by any means. The YZ retains you snug and nonetheless will get job one completed. For a race bike, that’s going quick from the beginning of the moto to the end.
The 2024 Yamaha YZ250F obtained the identical body and bodywork that the 450 obtained final yr.
MOVING FORWARD
If there’s something that can maintain the YZ again within the coming yr, it’s the truth that the motor is kind of frozen in time. It’s nonetheless a comparatively highly effective 250 four-stroke, however the ante is all the time getting increased in that world. Already, the Kawasaki, KTM and Husqvarna have an edge in mid- and top-end energy. Where the Yamaha nonetheless holds an edge is in throttle response. It will get extra completed with quarter or half throttle than absolutely anything else. Part of that’s just because the Yamaha has a shortish throttle flip, however extra is as a result of the bike makes extra occur with much less dedication. It communicates a sure eagerness to get going that the majority 250 four-strokes lack.
You get a sure vary of motor adjustability with the Yamaha Power Tuner smartphone app. We are shocked that extra producers haven’t jumped on options like this. KTM made a weak try at its personal model two years in the past, however then roughly deserted the challenge, blaming the scarcity of semiconductors on the time. For 2024 Kawasaki has one thing related for its new 450, however for now, Yamaha nonetheless holds the technological excessive floor. The precooked maps that Yamaha gives are pretty helpful for various observe circumstances, however probably the most vital benefit is that the method teaches you all about mapping and the outcomes of modifications in gas supply and spark advance. Going ahead, that’s information that all of us have to have. In common, most riders like probably the most aggressive of the three maps which can be provided; it appeared to get into the meat of the facility sooner and rev out longer. It did pop on deceleration extra. In common, the YZ does lots of that, and also you’re extra conscious of it due to the unusually loud exhaust and upward-facing air consumption.
The 2024 Yamaha YZ250F obtained the identical body and bodywork that the 450 obtained final yr. Carson Brown on the controls.
At the tip of the day, although, you aren’t going to search out some hidden reservoir of horsepower in some nook of the Power Tuner. It’s an incredible characteristic, nevertheless it’s a instrument for fine-tuning and never main persona change. The Yamaha’s energy output is what it’s, and that’s mid-level in a really aggressive class.
UNIVERSAL APPEAL
Last yr the YZ250F gained our 250F shootout, and up to now there’s nothing in regards to the new model that makes us rethink that. The new bike clearly has totally different mannerisms and traits, and that may offend some hard-core Yamaha lovers, however they are going to recover from it. The 2024 YZ250F has the identical strengths as final yr: glorious suspension, a straightforward to-use energy supply and outrageously good reliability. It places its rider in an excellent place, even when it will get there by means of a unique route.
The Yamaha YZ250F was first proven to us on the eve of the SMX finals. This is the fiftieth Anniversary Edition, which sells for $9,099 ($200 greater than the usual version).
Pro motocross is its personal little planet that has nothing to do with the true world. If you need proof, take a look at the Husqvarna FC450. In the true world, it’s all over the place. Amateurs like it for its clean nature. Local specialists like it for its outright energy. Vets, Seniors and Super Seniors like it for its cheap seat peak and tailorable suspension. In the professional world, alternatively, it was nowhere in 2023. There have been no Husqvarna 450s on the observe at any of the SMX finals. There have been no Husqvarna 450s on the rostrum in Supercross, and none within the prime 10 at any outside National. The 2023 Rockstar Husqvarna Pro Motocross staff was a washout in 2023, at the least within the 450 class. Yet, the FC450 has had wild success within the beginner world. Weird, huh?
The Husqvarna FC450 sells for $11,199. We anticipate a Rockstar Edition to be revealed with a lot of vital updates earlier than the beginning of the Supercross season.
THE PROPER PERSPECTIVE
In reality, all Pro Motocross groups are solely a few ruptured ligaments away from catastrophe on a regular basis. “Win on Sunday, Sell on Monday” hasn’t been an actual factor for a very long time, and everybody is aware of it. The Husqvarna FC450 maintains a regal place within the motocross world. Of the three major strains at Pierer Mobility, Husqvarna remains to be seen because the elite model and instructions the very best costs.
This is the second 12 months of manufacturing for this explicit technology of FC450. The 2024 mannequin is, in reality, fully unchanged apart from some very refined graphic components. It nonetheless has a single-overhead-cam motor in a metal body with WP suspension and Brembo hydraulics. Husqvarna race bikes preserve a key distinction that makes them stand aside from KTM or GasGas: much less seat peak. That’s as a result of the suspension journey is barely lowered on the FC450 in comparison with the opposite Austrian 450s. In most different methods, the most important elements are the identical. The motors and frames are an identical on KTM, GasGas and Husky competitors bikes. There are some variations in elements, bodywork and hydraulics.
THE STAR OF THE SHOW
Setting apart the seat peak difficulty for now, it’s essential to speak about the true star of the Husky present first. It’s the motor. The KTM-made 450 engine is the perfect powerplant within the motocross world. It’s a marvel of usable output. In our 2023 450 motocross shootout, the Husky and KTM have been the horsepower kings, even over the brand new Yamaha. The Husky, specifically, didn’t really feel like a brute in any respect. In truth, it felt type of sleepy in comparison with the KTM and Yamaha, but it surely’s deceptively quick. The map change has two choices: quick and quicker. In normal, riders just like the quicker possibility, which is a testomony to the motor’s clean character. The similar button additionally gives traction management (take it or go away it), Quickshift (take it) and launch management (take it provided that you observe with it).
When you might have a lot energy obtainable, you be taught to deal with it with respect. The key driving approach on all 450s—and on the Husky specifically—is to roll the throttle on. Riders arising from the 250 class generally tend to present all of it or nothing. That doesn’t work right here; you’ll be able to’t make sure precisely what is going to occur when nearly 60 horsepower is unleashed. That’s the perfect argument for traction management, however in fact, all of us have traction management constructed into our proper wrists. You simply should discover ways to use it.
The Husky motor isn’t good. At low rpm, it may be a bit tough, and for those who aren’t fast with the clutch, it may well stall or flame out. You can journey it in a tall gear to make the facility extra controllable, however it’s important to take precautions, like doing most of your braking with the clutch in.
FRAME GAME
The metal body used for the FC450 can be utilized in one thing like 15 completely different fashions throughout the mixed KTM/GasGas/Husky fleet. We don’t imply all these bikes have comparable frames, both; all of the competitors four-strokes use the precise similar body. The two-strokes and dual-sport bikes have frames which might be about 90 p.c the identical. It got here into being for the 2022 Husqvarna Rockstar Edition and 2022 KTM Factory Edition, and since then has turn out to be the common glue that binds the entire Austrian firm collectively. It has a lot of glorious traits; all these bikes are glorious in turns and all are light-weight. On our scale, the 2024 FC450 weighs in at 229 kilos. Last 12 months the one 450 that weighed much less was the GasGas as a result of it used the older chassis. Now that the GasGas has been up to date, it’s possible that the Husky and KTM will probably be tied because the lightest bikes within the class, except the brand new Kawasaki KX450 takes that honor.
The constant criticism that has been leveled towards all these bikes, together with the FC450, is rigidity. It’s a stiffer body than the one it changed. This is most noticeable in back-to-back comparisons, which additionally reveal that the brand new chassis is extra secure and nicely planted. As time goes by, we’ve got found that the Husky body loses a lot of that preliminary stiffness, however cautious suspension setup is extra essential than ever. The Husky works greatest with 105mm of sag. The entrance suspension is the WP Xact AER air fork, and the usual air strain within the fork is 155 psi. The knee-jerk response for all dealing with complaints is usually to scale back the air strain, however more often than not that truly makes the entrance finish extra harsh. Adjustments in damping are typically extra productive. In normal, we just like the Husky’s suspension. It works nicely throughout the board, and for those who fall outdoors the mainstream in weight or aggressiveness, you’ll be able to all the time flip to air-pressure changes. It’s cheaper than shopping for springs. It’s essential to do not forget that you continue to must bleed the Husky’s fork similar to some other bike. The undeniable fact that it makes use of air for a spring doesn’t make it proof against air strain buildup within the damping chamber.
The similar motor is used for the Husky FX450 off-road bike, in addition to two KTMs and two GasGas fashions.
For most riders, the decrease seat peak doesn’t look like it might be that large of a deal. It’s truly laborious to measure precisely, however once you use a degree on the lowest a part of the seat and a plumb bob going straight down, it comes out to a couple of half inch. That is a giant deal to shorter riders, and because it seems, even tall guys prefer it. Riders who’re over 6 ft tall love the truth that they’ll get each ft squarely on the bottom. It helps for begins, engenders extra confidence and appears to don’t have any draw back. In idea, you need to have much less floor clearance, which could imply that deep ruts might wipe your ft off the pegs. If somebody claims to have a difficulty with the lowered suspension journey, it’s most likely nonsense. Likewise, these riders who say they’ll nook higher due to the decrease seat peak are most likely imagining issues. Or, possibly they’re very, very delicate take a look at riders.
Last 12 months the Husky gained weight barely, but it surely’s nonetheless one of many lightest 450s you should purchase.
DETAILING
The Husqvarna FC450 just isn’t an inexpensive motorbike. Aside from particular editions, it’s one of the vital costly bikes within the 450 class with an MSRP of $11,199. For that, you do get a number of the greatest bits and items. The rims are D.I.D Dirt Stars, the handlebar is a Pro Taper, the hydraulic clutch is Brembo and so are the brakes. There’s little question that this is without doubt one of the most well-built bikes in all of motocross. If you’re nonetheless confused by its lack of visibility in Pro Motocross, simply keep tuned. The Pro Motocross world can flip the other way up in a heartbeat.
The 2024 KTM 125SX is essentially the most technologically superior 125cc motocross machine that KTM has ever produced with an electrical starter, two elective pre-programmed maps that may be modified on the fly, digital energy valve, electrical starter and a throttle-body fuel-injection system. Combined with all the opposite options like Brembo braking parts, WP suspension, a tool-less-access airbox and hydraulic clutch, this has acquired to be one of the best 125cc made, proper?
Well, let’s not get forward of ourselves simply but, as a result of with technological developments nearly at all times comes some bugs that have to be labored out. Compared to the earlier era, the 2024 KTM 125SX solely retains using the WP fork meeting, Brembo braking {hardware}, wheel fitment, Magura hydraulic clutch actuator and some different parts.
Fuel injection, elective mapping and electrical starters have lastly made it to the 125cc motocross class.
The 2024 KTM 125SX options so many new gadgets in comparison with the earlier era that it’s going to make your head spin. The body is all new with all-new styling all through, new rear suspension, electrical starter that eliminates the kickstarter altogether, the carburetor is gone and changed by a throttle-body fuel-injection system. The digital energy valve is now wired straight into the EFI mapping, permitting port timing to be modified utilizing info relayed from the throttle-position sensor, together with the engine’s rpm. A number of outlets, nevertheless, like Twisted Development and WMR Motorsports, have cracked the code to those locked CPUs.
Spark development and gasoline supply are additionally in a position to be altered by the 2 preset maps put in on the manufacturing unit, which will be modified on the fly utilizing the handlebar-mounted change. KTM then locked the CPU so most of the people can’t alter any settings.
KTM has two mapping choices from the manufacturing unit, however the inventory ECU is locked and might’t be reprogrammed—no less than in the interim
The carbureted, kick-start mannequin tipped the scales at 195 kilos with out gasoline, making the Austrian 125cc machine the lightest, however with the addition of electrical begin and gasoline injection, the KTM gained weight and is now hitting the scales at 206 kilos. In the small-bore two-stroke class, 11 kilos could make an enormous distinction.
What does all of it imply? Fuel injection has positively modified the facility traits of the KTM 125SX. As a matter of reality, it fully flipped it over in comparison with the carbureted mannequin. On the observe, energy feels prefer it begins sooner on the underside, pulls about the identical within the mid-range—though, it’s much less thrilling—after which indicators off earlier on the highest finish.
Just like when four-stroke motocross bikes converted to gasoline injection, the two-strokes are dropping that signature laborious hit of the powerband that everybody is used to and now produce a smoother, linear-type energy. Most two-stroke purists won’t be comfortable about this.
If you reside and die by dyno charts, the brand new fuel-injected 125 mannequin comes up about 3 to 4 horsepower in need of the carbureted mannequin’s peak horsepower. Although not as drastically completely different because the four-stroke mannequin’s mapping choices, all our check riders favor the extra aggressive (white) over the usual (inexperienced) choices.
Starting a 125cc machine shouldn’t be one thing a lot of the world thinks twice about, so having the magic button is at all times most well-liked. Overall dealing with is barely stiffer than the earlier mannequin as a result of rigidity will increase within the new body, however suspension settings appear to be somewhat softer, absorbing any harsh feeling again to the rider.
Compared to the carbureted kickstart mannequin, the fuel-injected electric-start mannequin is simply over 10 kilos heavier and some horsepower much less at peak output, however it’s simpler to maintain within the meat of that energy.
If you’re a critical racer within the intermediate or professional division, the 2024 KTM 125SX won’t be the good first alternative for a few causes. But, for the typical 125cc pilot, this bike is less complicated to maintain within the meat of the facility, has an electrical starter, the guessing recreation of jetting is eradicated by gasoline injection, mapping choices are on the fly, has nice brakes and an general dealing with bundle that matches all kinds of using talent ranges. You simply should be sincere with your self about what you might be on the lookout for.
Team HRC Honda has formally revealed its riders and bikes for the 2024 Supercross, Motocross and TremendousMotocross seasons at an occasion in Torrance, CA. The official press launch follows:
During a particular occasion this night, American Honda introduced its race plans for the fast-approaching 2024 racing season. Held within the new Collection Hall and assembly house on the producer’s Torrance, California, campus, the occasion was attended by workforce sponsors and members of the media, and was highlighted by the manufacturing facility Team Honda HRC lineup, together with riders, managers and technicians. The manufacturing facility squad is coming off a record-setting 2023 season that noticed it take a file six skilled AMA championships. In addition, a powerful record of Honda-supported groups was introduced, together with SmarTop/Bullfrog Spas/MotoConcepts Honda, SLR Honda, JCR Honda, Turner Racing Honda, Honda Off-Road Factory Racing and Raceco-USA Honda. Also current was Phoenix Racing Honda, celebrating the latest signing of two-time AMA Pro Motocross Champion Dylan Ferrandis, to marketing campaign the premier class in AMA Supercross.
Jett LawrenceHunter LawrenceJo Shimoda
Chance Hymas
Heading up Team Honda HRC is Jett Lawrence, who at 20 years outdated has already collected six AMA crowns, together with three in 2023—the 250SX West title, the AMA Pro Motocross 450 championship and the inaugural TremendousMotocross title. The 2024 season shall be Jett’s first campaigning the premier class indoors. Joining Jett aboard one other manufacturing facility CRF450RWE is his brother Hunter Lawrence, who final season earned the 250SX East and AMA Pro Motocross 250 crowns. As beforehand introduced, Jo Shimoda takes Hunter’s outdated spot aboard the workforce’s CRF250R, together with returning racer Chance Hymas. The four-rider lineup is among the many strongest ever fielded by the squad, which is intent on carrying its success ahead into the approaching season.
That confidence is thanks additionally partially to the return of high members throughout the workforce and crew, together with supervisor Lars Lindstrom and 450 and 250 crew chiefs Grant Hutcheson and Jordan Troxell, respectively. Christien Ducharme is Jett Lawrence’s mechanic, whereas Hunter’s technician is Cameron Camera. Ben Griffith and Thomas Harris will function mechanics for Shimoda and Hymas, respectively.
The 17-round 2024 AMA Supercross season commences on January 6 in Anaheim, California, adopted by the 11-round AMA Pro Motocross collection and the three-round TremendousMotocross Championship.
Brandon Wilson: Manager of Racing and Experiential Marketing “While it’s gratifying that we were able to get Team Honda HRC back on top where it belongs in 2023, this team’s proud legacy wasn’t built on a one-and-done philosophy; in fact, the recent success just makes us even more determined to keep it going in 2024. Fortunately, I think we have all the pieces needed to accomplish that: an incredibly talented rider roster, a capable crew, competitive machinery and valuable sponsors. And while of course the factory squad is the focus, I’m also very proud of the lineup of support teams we’re fielding in various disciplines. I can’t wait for the new season to get started.”
Lars Lindstrom: Team Manager “We just finished our 2024 season introduction for Team Honda HRC and the support teams. We’ve had an incredibly rigorous off-season compared to normal, with a lot of different events and traveling. Now it feels like this was kind of the last thing on the agenda before Anaheim. Everyone worked extremely hard to make this event happen, but we planned well and it went off without a hitch. I’m really proud of the whole team, and the riders for being troopers—especially Jett and Hunter after coming from the Honda Racing Thanks Day in Japan. Now it’s all about dialing in the bikes, getting trucks ready and preparing for the first race. I’m super-excited for the season coming and really stoked to have these guys on the team right now. Our team atmosphere last year was great, and it’s even better now. I feel like we’re going to have an incredible vibe all year.”
If you’ve been eagerly anticipating Triumph’s full reveal of its first-ever dedicated motocross machine, then we’ve got news for you. As of November 28, 2023, the wait is officially over. While the team from Hinckley has clearly been hyping up the build for some time, now it’s finally laying the cards on the table so the world can see what it’s been building: The all-new Triumph TF 250-X.
The details, we have to say, look pretty intriguing. In addition to Triumph’s ground-up frame and engine design (which we’ll get to in a bit), it also sourced a number of high-spec components to add to the overall serious impression it wants to make. Brembo brakes, Galfer discs, Pro-Taper handlebar, and Pirelli Scorpion MX32 tires are just some of what’s included.
Engine
While Triumph gave us glimpses of what the engine looked and sounded like in its teaser video series leading up to the big reveal, no specs were available until now.
The new TF 250-X is powered by a four-stroke, dual overhead cam, 249.95cc single-cylinder engine. It uses Dell’Orto electronic fuel injection and is mated to a five-speed gearbox. No official power or torque figures are given.
Chassis
The Triumph TF 250-X uses an aluminum spine frame design, along with an aluminum swingarm.
Suspension consists of a KYB 48mm coil spring fork up front offering 310mm (about 12.2 inches) of travel and full adjustability. In the rear, there’s a KYB coil with 305mm (about 12.0 inches) of travel and compression and rebound adjustability.
Braking duties are performed by a Brembo twin 24mm piston front brake caliper and a 260mm Galfer front disc. In the rear, there’s a Brembo single 26mm piston rear brake caliper and a 220mm Galfer rear disc.
The TF 250-X rides on a 21-inch front and a 19-inch rear wheel, both wrapped in Pirelli Scorpion MX32 tires.
Dimensions
The Triumph TF 250-X has a 1,492mm (about 58.74 inch) wheelbase. Handlebar width is 836mm (about 32.9 inches). The height without mirrors is 1,270mm (about 50 inches). Rake and trail are 27.4 degrees and 116mm (about 4.6 inches).
Seat height is 960mm (about 37.8 inches). Fuel tank capacity is seven liters.
Wet weight is 229 pounds.
Price and Availability
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In addition to revealing full details of the 2024 Triumph TF 250-X, the company also announced its plan to open around 300 new Triumph Motocross and Enduro centers across Europe, Australia, and the US by the
We now have the official specifications for the 2024 Triumph TF 250-X motocross bike, including some surprising choices:
TF 250-X has a class-leading power-to-weight ratio and the highest specification components
Designed and developed by Triumph’s world leading engineers in close collaboration with motocross champions
Comprehensive new network of specialist motocross dealers, backed by a new 24/7 online parts supply system
The new TF 250-X has been unveiled by Triumph Motorcycles, boasting a class-leading power to weight ratio and an extensive specification package. Developed entirely by Triumph in collaboration with racing champions such as Ricky Carmichael and Iván Cervantes, the four-stroke competition model features a ground-up design. The bike’s performance racing powertrain and unique aluminum chassis are ultra-compact and superlight, equipped with top-of-the-line components.
With its focused, aggressive style, the TF 250-X is slim, bold, and instantly recognizable on the track, featuring a minimal and lightweight presence along with distinctive Triumph Racing Yellow and black graphics scheme.
A new network of specialist motocross dealers will offer sales, servicing, parts, and a dedicated range of apparel, supported by a mobile-optimized 24/7 online parts supply system, allowing customers to order for express delivery straight from the track.
“The launch of the TF 250-X is the culmination of a significant commitment and investment from Triumph, to not just bring a totally new bike to the motocross world, but to deliver a winning performance. To achieve this, we are focused on delivering the most complete package for any riding level, from champion to amateur,” said Triumph Motorcycles’ Chief Product Manager, Steve Sargent.
Triumph has developed a new performance racing powertrain for the TF 250-X, featuring a competition four-stroke single that is ultra-compact and superlight. The engine includes a forged aluminum piston, titanium valves, diamond-like carbon low friction coatings, lightweight magnesium covers, and an Exedy Belleville clutch. In addition to advanced engine management and tunability, riders can use the optional MX Tune Pro app for real-time user-selectable mapping, a live engine sensor dashboard, and live diagnostic functionality through a controlled programmable engine management system.
The unique aluminum chassis of the TF 250-X features a high strength, lightweight spine frame with twin cradles, providing the best ‘power-to-weight’ ratio in the category. The bike also offers a high level of tunability to suit different riders and styles.
Premium, top-tier componentry is featured throughout the TF 250-X, offering an unrivaled specification for a production bike in this category. The bike includes KYB suspension with 48mm AOS coil forks, forged and machined 7075-T6 aluminum triple clamps, and a three-way piggyback coil rear shock. The premium Brembo braking system features twin 24mm piston floating front calipers, a single 26mm piston floating rear caliper, and Galfer 260mm front and 220mm rear discs. The bike also comes equipped with DirtStar 7000 Series aluminum rims, Pirelli Scorpion MX32 mid-soft tires, Pro-Taper ACF carbon core bars, and ODI half-waffle lock-on grips.
Triumph has also worked with premium brands to create a dedicated range of competition accessories to further enhance performance and capability. These accessories include an Akrapovič full titanium exhaust system, XTrig hole shot device, Athena LC-GPA launch control module, MX Tune Pro wi-fi module, performance gripper seat and seat cover, and bodywork replacement kit.
Motocross dealer centers will also stock a new clothing range, available alongside the new TF 250-X. The range, developed in partnership with Alpinestars, includes Motocross and Enduro boots and apparel.
New specialist Triumph Motocross and Enduro centers will be opening in Europe, Australia, and the USA from Spring 2024, with 300 expected by the end of 2024. These dedicated, fully trained, specialist off-road centers will offer sales, servicing, parts, clothing, and race support. Additionally, a unique 24/7 parts and accessories supply system will be available via the Triumph website, fully optimized for mobile, allowing riders to search for parts and place orders while at the track.
Triumph has also announced its involvement in the FIM Motocross World Championship for 2024, competing with a factory-supported program set up in partnership with Thierry Chizat-Suzzoni, one of the sport’s most experienced and successful team owners. The team will start its campaign with two of Triumph’s all-new 250cc 4-stroke MX bikes in the 2024 MX2 class, supported by a new sponsor, Monster Energy.
The commitment to racing success is further emphasized by the experienced team behind Triumph Racing, including Team Manager Vincent Bereni, who is leading a crew of highly experienced technical staff focused on bringing Triumph to the pinnacle of racing performance.
The TF 250-X will be priced from around $10,779 in the US and orders can be placed now at Triumph’s new motocross dealers, with delivery starting in Spring 2024. For more information or to find your local dealer, visit the Triumph website.
The announcement also hinted at the launch of the TR 450-X and the highly anticipated Enduro range from Triumph Motorcycles in 2024.
ENGINE & TRANSMISSION
Type
Single Cylinder 4-Stroke DOHC
Capacity
249.95 cc
Bore
78 mm
Stroke
52.3 mm
Compression
14.4
System
Dell’Orto EFI
Exhaust
Single Silencer
Final Drive
13/48
Clutch
Wet Multi-Plate Belleville Spring
Gearbox
5 Speed
CHASSIS
Frame
Aluminium, Spine
Swingarm
Aluminium Fabrication
Front Wheel
21″ x 1.6″
Rear Wheel
19″ x 1.85″
Front Tyre
80/100 – 21
Rear Tyre
100/90 – 19
Front Suspension
KYB 48mm Coil Spring Fork, Compression/Rebound Adjustment, 310mm Travel
Rear Suspension
KYB Coil, Compression Adjustment (H and L Speed), Rebound Adjustment, 305mm Travel
Front Brakes
Brembo Twin 24mm Piston, 260mm Disc
Rear Brakes
Brembo Single 26mm Piston, 220mm Disc
Instrument Display and Functions
Hour Meter, Multifunction Switch Cubes
DIMENSIONS & WEIGHTS
Width Handlebars
836mm
Height Without Mirror
1270mm
Seat Height
960mm
Wheelbase
1492mm
Rake
27.4º
Trail
116mm
Wet Weight
104kg
Tank Capacity
7 L
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