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Steward Baylor Wins Final National Enduro of the Year

Steward Baylor Jr. Captures the Gobbler Getter

Round 9 in the Magna1 AMA National Enduro Series presented by Moose Racing took place at the Perry Mountain Motorcycle Club in Alabama for the Gobbler Getter National Enduro. The warm and dry conditions combined with long test sections posed a challenge for the riders. Steward Baylor Jr came out on top for his 4th win in a row at the end of the season.

Steward Baylor won his fourth straight National Enduro at the Gobbler Getter.

Steward, a Rocky Mountain ATV/MC Tely Energy KTM rider, studied his competition and tried to mimic the riding style of Josh Toths, who had performed well at this event in previous years. Steward focused on riding standing up and maintaining a smooth flow, which helped him secure the final win of the season. He emphasized the importance of adapting to different terrains and styles of other riders in the National Enduro Series.

Grant Baylor, the new National Enduro Champion finished second overall.

Grant Baylor, riding for Babbitts Online Monster Energy Kawasaki, pushed Steward throughout the race, winning one test and finishing second overall in the other five tests. Grant aimed to secure his position ahead of Josh Toth to ensure Steward finished second in the championship. Despite tweaking his leg, Grant remained focused on maintaining a smooth run to finish the season healthy and achieve his goal.

Enduro Engineering’s Josh Toth, the GasGas pilot finished third overall.

Josh Toth, a GasGas rider for Enduro Engineering, finished third overall, securing his second consecutive podium finish and sixth of the season. He claimed a test win in test 3, which was his highlight of the day. Josh’s performance landed him in third place overall for the 2023 season.

Am Pro Yamaha’s Ricky Russell ended up fourth overall for the day.
Thorn Devlin took the win in the NE Pro 2 class, finishing second overall in the championship.

Thorn Devlin, riding a Bonecutter GasGas, won the NE Pro 2 Class at the Gobbler Getter. Thorn had an impressive performance, winning the first and fifth tests and securing a 29-second victory in the class. With 7 podium finishes and 4 wins, Thorn placed 2nd overall in the NE Pro2 2023 Championship. He expressed satisfaction with his performance and the experience of being his own mechanic and working on his own bike throughout the season.

Your 2023 National NE Pro 2 class champion Liam Draper.

Liam Draper, a rider for AM-Pro Yamaha, clinched the NE Pro2 2023 National Enduro Championship. Although he finished second on the day, Liam had an outstanding season with 3 test wins and consistent performances. Finishing on the podium 7 times and securing 5 wins, Liam expressed gratitude for the support of his team and the opportunity to be part of the Yamaha team.

Steve Nicholas III of Nicholas Drywall KTM achieved his first podium finish in the NE Pro2 class since the previous Gobbler Getter event. Steve expressed his satisfaction with finally reaching the podium after putting in the work and facing challenges of balancing his full-time work with drywall and his racing career.

Mackenzie Tricker of Enduro Engineering GasGas won the Women’s Elite class for the 6th time this season, securing her fifth championship in a row. Mackenzie dominated the day by winning all 5 tests. She mentioned that wrapping up the Championship early allowed her to push less in the challenging conditions and expressed that this would be her final season racing the National Enduro Full time.

Mackenzie Tricker already owned her fifth National Enduro title and a win at the Gobbler Getter was her sixth win of the year.

Brooke Cosner borrowed a KX450 from her boyfriend Grant Baylor and achieved a season-best finish, placing 2nd in the Women’s Elite Class. She praised the bike’s performance, noting that she felt a little sore in her legs but overall had a great ride.

Sheryl Hunter, a Husqvarna rider, rounded out the podium in the Women’s Elite Class. This was her first-ever National Women’s Pro Podium finish, and she expressed her excitement about achieving her goal after several fourth-place finishes. Sheryl described the track as physically demanding but fun, and she expressed her delight in ending the season on a high note.

The Beta Cup, a competition within the series, was decided at the final round. Emma Hasbell of the Women’s Amateur Class and James Jenkins of the B200 class had perfect seasons going into the final round. After factoring in dropped races and comparing points, wins, and test wins, Emma Hasbell emerged as the 2023 Beta Cup Champion. Her slight advantage in total average time of margin of victory throughout the season secured her the title. As the champion, Emma will be able to choose a free Beta 2 Stroke motorcycle of her choice, courtesy of Beta USA.

Gobbler Getter Top 10

1-Steward Baylor Jr- KTM

2-Grant Baylor- Kaw

3-Josh Toth- Gas

4-Ricky Russel- Yam

5-Evan Smith- Beta

6-Craig Delong- Hus

7-Ben Kelley- KTM

8-Thorn Devlin- Gas

9-Liam Draper- Yam

10-Steve Nicholas III- KTM

-Story by Logan Densmore

NewsNew

Jonny Walker Dominates Prescott EnduroCross

The second round of the IRC Tire EnduroCross Series, presented by Progressive, took place at Findlay Toyota Center in Prescott, Arizona. Jonny Walker of Britain continued his perfect season by winning all three motos on his factory Beta motorcycle. This mirrored his performance at the season opener in Everett, Washington, two weeks prior. Walker also secured the top spot in hot-lap qualifying, posting a time two seconds faster than any other rider.

In the first moto, Rockstar Energy Husqvarna rider Colton Haaker got off to a strong start and led the race until Walker executed an aggressive pass in the challenging rock section to take the lead. Despite the tough track conditions, Walker was able to maintain his advantage and secure the win.

The second and third motos followed a similar pattern, with Haaker once again taking the holeshot in both races. However, Walker maintained consistent pressure and made the crucial passes to secure victories in each moto.

Haaker finished second overall with a 2-2-2 score, while Cody Webb of FactoryOne Sherco rounded out the podium with a 4-3-3 tally. Ryder LeBlond of Rockstar Energy Husqvarna took fourth place with a 3-6-4 performance.

In the Women’s Pro final, Rachel Gutish of Over and Out/GasGas made a come-from-behind effort to claim the victory. Melissa Harten (Beta) finished in second place, followed by Kylee Sweeten (GasGas) in third.

Overall, it was another impressive display from Jonny Walker, who looks unstoppable in the IRC Tire EnduroCross Series. The next round will take place in Idaho, where Walker will aim to continue his winning streak.

Overall Results:

  1. Jonny Walker (Beta) 1-1-1
  2. Colton Haaker (Husqvarna) 2-2-2
  3. Cody Webb (Beta) 4-3-3
  4. Ryder LeBlond (Husqvarna) 3-6-4
  5. Trystan Hart (KTM) 5-4-7
  6. Taddy Blazusiak (GasGas) 6-7-5
  7. Cooper Abbott (Beta) 9-5-6
  8. Will Riordan (KTM) 7-8-9
  9. Max Gerston (GasGas) 8-10-8
  10. Dominik Olszowy (Sherco) 11-9-10
Volkswagen

New Tiguan generation: Volkswagen’s bestseller celebrates world premiere in front of 10,000 employees

Today, Volkswagen unveiled the new Tiguan to its employees at the works meeting in Wolfsburg. The Tiguan has been one of Volkswagen’s most successful models since its debut in 2007, with a total of 7.6 million units produced. It has been the bestselling model for Volkswagen Passenger Cars and the Volkswagen Group since 2018. The third generation of the Tiguan will be produced in Wolfsburg starting from fall 2023 and will hit the market in the first quarter of 2024. With its compact size and modern features, the Tiguan combines advanced technologies with a stylish design.

Thomas Schäfer, CEO of Volkswagen Passenger Cars, expressed how important it was to showcase the new Tiguan to the employees before its world premiere. He thanked their hard work and passion, mentioning that the compact SUV is a bestseller worldwide, with 7.6 million customers since its debut in 2007.

Daniela Cavallo, Chairwoman of the General and Group Works Council, emphasized that the idea of holding the world premiere during the works meeting was initiated by the Works Council. This gesture demonstrates their appreciation for the workforce at the birthplace of the Tiguan in Wolfsburg.

Imelda Labbé, a Member of the Board of Management at Volkswagen Board Member Passenger Cars for Sales, highlighted the Tiguan’s success and its significant role in the Volkswagen brand’s overall achievements.

Volkswagen offers a wide range of SUV models, including the new Tiguan, T-Roc, T-Cross, Taigo, Touareg, and all-electric ID.4 and ID.5, to cater to the growing global demand for SUVs.

The Tiguan is one of Volkswagen’s most successful models.

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE NEW TIGUAN

The third generation of the Tiguan features a fresh design, with a powerful front end and distinctive rear section. The interior has been revamped with high-quality materials and a new operating concept. The digital cockpit presents key information and integrates digital services and apps. The control functions are user-friendly and include the “Digital Cockpit,” a large infotainment screen, a head-up display, and a multifunctional driving experience switch. The Tiguan is based on Volkswagen’s Modular Transverse Toolkit (MQB evo) and benefits from new hybrid powertrains, improved charging capabilities, and advanced features derived from the luxury Touareg model. The adaptive chassis and the latest generation of parking assist further enhance comfort and convenience.

Volkswagen

Tiguan Redesign: Volkswagen’s Bestseller Unveiled to Employees

Before its official media unveiling, Volkswagen showcased the new Tiguan to 10,000 employees at a works meeting in the Wolfsburg plant. The Tiguan has been a highly successful model for Volkswagen, with 7.6 million units produced since its launch in 2007. In the past two years alone, nearly a million units have been sold. Since 2018, the Tiguan has been the top-selling model for both Volkswagen Passenger Cars and the Volkswagen Group. The third generation of this popular SUV will begin production in Wolfsburg in fall 2023 and will be available in the first quarter of 2024. Combining progressive technologies with charismatic design, the Tiguan continues to impress with its compact dimensions.

Thomas Schäfer, CEO of Volkswagen Passenger Cars, expressed the importance of showcasing the new Tiguan to the company’s team before its world premiere. This gesture was a way of thanking the employees for their hard work and dedication. The compact SUV is a crucial model for Volkswagen and the Wolfsburg location, as it has become a global bestseller. Since its debut in 2007, 7.6 million customers have purchased this vehicle.

Daniela Cavallo, Chairwoman of the General and Group Works Council, mentioned that the idea of holding the world premiere for and with the workforce came from the Works Council. The decision to have the new Tiguan unveiled during the works meeting was a strong signal of appreciation for the colleagues, especially those at the Tiguan’s birthplace in Wolfsburg. These employees have contributed to its success and have been excellent brand ambassadors from the start. It was Volkswagen’s way of saying thank you for their outstanding work. The employees followed the world premiere in and around Hall 11, as well as through the live stream.

Volkswagen Board Member for Sales Imelda Labbé emphasized that the Tiguan is one of the best-selling models in the compact SUV segment in many markets. In Germany and other countries, it holds the top position in its vehicle class, making it an essential pillar of the Volkswagen brand’s success.

Volkswagen offers a state-of-the-art and expansive SUV lineup, including the new Tiguan, T-Roc, T-Cross, Taigo, and Touareg, as well as the all-electric ID.4 and ID.5 models, in North and South America, India, and China. The SUV segment is rapidly growing worldwide, making a strong portfolio vital for Volkswagen’s competitiveness.

The Tiguan is one of the most successful Volkswagen models of the present day.

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE NEW TIGUAN

The third generation of the compact SUV features a completely redesigned exterior. The front end has a powerful appearance, and the rear section has a distinct and eye-catching design. Inside, the Tiguan has undergone a redesign with high-quality materials and workmanship. It impresses with a new operating concept, including a clear digital cockpit landscape that provides maximum information and incorporates digital services and apps. The user-friendly operation is evident throughout. Notable features include the new “Digital Cockpit” with anti-reflective digital instruments, a spacious infotainment screen up to 15 inches in size with a new menu structure and graphics, a head-up display for projections onto the windshield, and a multifunctional driving experience switch with an integrated OLED display. This dial allows control of the driving mode, radio volume, and even the colors of the ambient lighting.

The new Tiguan is based on the latest version of the Modular Transverse Toolkit: the MQB evo. This technology upgrade enhances almost every aspect of the Tiguan. The introduction of new hybrid powertrains with an all-electric range of approximately 100 km significantly improves the SUV’s efficiency. AC charging will be faster in all eHybrid versions, and for the first time, DC fast charging will be standard. Additionally, the new Tiguan features systems derived from the luxury Touareg model, such as a pneumatic massage function for the front seats and the “IQ.LIGHT – HD matrix headlights.” The new adaptive chassis “DCC Pro” enhances both comfort and dynamics, while the latest generation of “Park Assist” offers automated parking and backing out.

For more information on the Tiguan, visit the official Volkswagen website.

Motorsport

BMW X5 Li Facelift For China Provides Extra Legroom

In March 2022, BMW introduced the X5 Li exclusively for the Chinese market, which was a notable departure from the typical vehicle refresh cycle in the automotive industry. Most companies wait three to four years before updating their products, but BMW decided to release a facelifted version of the long-wheelbase SUV for the People’s Republic. This update followed the mid-cycle facelift of the regular X5 and X6, which were launched in February of the same year.

The X5 Li benefits from a lengthened wheelbase, extended by 5.11 inches (130 millimeters) when compared to the global version of the vehicle. This alteration was also applied to the pre-facelift version of the X5 Li. As a result, the rear passengers enjoy significant legroom, complemented by wider rear doors that make entering and exiting the vehicle easier. Additionally, the car features specially designed seats and exclusive equipment to enhance long-distance comfort.


BMW

Happy Birthday. Electric mobility in MINI style.

Munich. Exactly 64 years ago, on August 26, 1959, the first classic Mini was introduced. The creator of the Mini, designer Sir Alec Issigonis, aimed to create a vehicle with plenty of interior space, small external dimensions, room for four occupants, impeccable driving characteristics, low fuel consumption, and an affordable price.

Since the brand’s relaunch in 2001 with the New MINI, the same principle has been upheld: a superior concept that excels in multiple ways. This still holds true for the MINI 3-door, MINI 5-door, MINI Convertible, MINI Clubman, and MINI Countryman. Each model has its own unique character, but they all share the essence of being a MINI.

In 2008, MINI achieved a significant milestone in the pursuit of emission-free mobility with the introduction of the MINI E. Over 500 units of the all-electric MINI were provided to selected customers in a pilot test.

Since 2017, the MINI Cooper SE Countryman ALL4 has offered a plug-in hybrid drive system, combining electric and gasoline power for emission-free mobility while maintaining sporty agility and versatility. The system consists of a three-cylinder gasoline engine with MINI TwinPower Turbo technology powering the front wheels and an electric drive for the rear wheels, generating a total system output of 162 kW/220 hp.

In 2019, MINI launched the MINI Cooper SE, further advancing urban mobility with its all-electric powertrain. The model boasts a 135 kW/184 hp electric motor, precise chassis tuning, and a low center of gravity, making it agile and characteristic of the MINI brand. The lithium-ion high-voltage battery, positioned low in the vehicle floor, offers a range of 203 to 234 kilometers according to the WLTP test cycle.

For those seeking open-air driving, the MINI Cooper SE Convertible is the world’s first locally emission-free premium convertible in the small car segment. It accelerates smoothly from standstill to 100 km/h in 7.3 seconds and has a range of 201 kilometers according to the WLTP test cycle, allowing for exciting excursions beyond city limits. This model represents the transition towards an all-electric, digital, and distinctive next-generation MINI family.

MINI is committed to expanding its range of all-electric models. The first two members of the new MINI family will be revealed at the IAA (International Motor Show) in Munich from September 5-10, 2023. On its 64th anniversary, MINI celebrates with a promising future.

Motorsport

Kia EV6 Special Edition Celebrates its NACTOY Win at Monterey Car Week

In January 2023, the Kia EV6 received the prestigious 2023 North American Utility Vehicle of The Year (NACTOY) award. To mark this achievement, Kia America has introduced a limited edition EV6 at The Quail event during Monterey Car Week.

This special edition model will be produced in limited quantities, with only 1,000 units available. Kia is offering a unique paint color called Deep Forest Green to distinguish it from regular EV6 models. Additionally, the special edition EV6 will feature blacked-out exterior elements, such as wheel arches, side skirts, and mirrors, taken from the EV6 Wind variant.

The limited edition EV6 will borrow the 20-inch alloy wheels and sunroof from the EV6 GT-Line. Inside, the electric crossover will showcase NACTOY medallions and a silhouette of the vehicle next to the gear selector, commemorating its NACTOY win.

The limited edition EV6 will be powered by the all-wheel-drive GT-Line’s motors, which deliver a combined 320 horsepower and 446 pound-feet of torque. It will be equipped with a 77.4-kilowatt-hour battery, shared with other E-GMP-based EVs from the Hyundai Motor Group like the Ioniq 5 and Genesis GV60.

The prices for the special edition EV6 will be announced closer to its on-sale date later this year. According to Jeff Gilbert, the president of North American Car Truck and Utility of the Year, the EV6 was chosen as the winner due to its superior driving dynamics, competitive pricing, and fast charging capability.

The NACTOY award is given by a panel of 50 automotive journalists from the US and Canada who evaluate vehicles based on various criteria such as innovation, design, safety, performance, technology, user experience, driver satisfaction, and value. After a rigorous evaluation process and three rounds of voting, the winners are selected.

The base rear-wheel-drive Kia EV6 starts at $42,600 in the US, while the top-spec GT version with 576 horsepower is priced at $61,600. However, the EV6’s sales have been slower compared to its competitors, with only 10,265 units sold in the US year-to-date, representing a 28% decline from the previous year. The EV6 is not eligible for the $7,500 federal tax credit, but lease options may provide value depending on the buyer’s location.

Motorsport

Porsche 911 997 Restomod Created By Edit Automotive Starts At $184,450

Edit Automotive has unveiled the g11, a custom-built sports car based on the sixth-generation Porsche 911. The g11, designed by Petr Novague, aims to create an uncomplicated and direct connection between the driver and the machine. Edit Automotive plans to modify a total of 99 cars, drawing inspiration from the original 911 and reigniting the passion for the joy of driving.

The sixth generation of the Porsche 911, also known as the 997, was produced by Porsche from 2005 to 2013. Edit Automotive specifically chose this model because it offers a truly mechanical driving experience, before the introduction of electrically assisted steering in the 991. The modification process starts with a widebody version of the 997, equipped with a naturally aspirated 3.6-liter or 3.8-liter flat-six-cylinder engine tuned to produce between 325 and 400 horsepower. Each engine undergoes disassembly, with worn components replaced and new IMS bearings and stainless steel cylinder liners installed.


NewsNew

RIDING THE 2024 GASGAS MX & OFF-ROAD BIKES: THE WRAP

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.

I got to ride the EX450F while someone shot photos of me for a change. Photo courtesy GasGas.

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.

Gary Sutherlin on the EX450F.

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.

Justin Barcia was riding again and looking good in Italy.

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

Larry Ward’s privateer YZ250 from 1995.

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.

Larry Ward at Sunrise Cycle park for Dirt Bike in 1995.

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.”

Jim Holley helping test the Noleen bike.
Larry Ward was the top privateer in Supercross in 1995. Maybe the top privateer in Supercross ever.

CAN-AM LEGACY

Gary Jones (1), Marty Tripes (2) and Jimmy Ellis (3) were the murderer’s row at Can-Am in 1974.

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

Ken Roczen, the reigning World Supercross Champion, is scheduled to be on hand at Ironman Raceway.

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!

–Ron Lawson
Cars

What happened to Brake Free from Shark Tank Season 12?

In Season 12’s Episode 8 of Shark Tank, Brake Free was introduced by two of its founders, Henry Li and Alex Arkhangelskiy. The other three co-founders, Ian Dunn, Trevor Leger, and Johan Boot, were absent from the episode. Arkhangelskiy started the pitch by highlighting the excitement of riding motorcycles while also acknowledging the inherent danger. He mentioned that he and his partners created Brake Free because they have families and are concerned about safety. The “Shark Tank” investors were initially impressed, but had reservations about Brake Free’s request for $200,000 in funding in exchange for a 10% equity stake in the company.

The “Shark Tank” investors quickly acknowledged that Brake Free was a great idea and inquired about its functionality and whether it had a patent. The Brake Free presenters explained that the device costs $169.99, uses smartphone-like sensors to track movement, and has a patent. However, Kevin O’Leary, Barbara Corcoran, and Lori Greiner declined the opportunity to invest in Brake Free, leaving the presenters disappointed. Luckily, Robert Herjavec was willing to provide the requested $200,000, but he wanted a 20% equity stake. Mark Cuban also expressed interest in the company, leading to a partnership between Herjavec and Cuban. Brake Free ultimately accepted the deal for $200,000 with a 20% equity stake.