J. mcmahon in n.m.

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Honolulu Hills, ironically named for the desert type terrain of Taft, California, was home to the final round of the World Off-Road Championship Series, held October 23 - 25.

Eichner had his sights on two things - top performances on both the Polaris Outlaw and Polaris RANGER RZR.

Saturday morning marked the start of an outstanding day when Eichner took his first Pro win aboard the Outlaw 450 MXR with a full gate in the Pro Production Class.  With a hole shot start, fast lap times and a flawless ride, Eichner took a commanding win and looked to be strong for Sunday’s Pro Main event.

Later Saturday afternoon, Eichner faced the challenge of securing the World Off-Road Championship Series UTV Champion.  Eichner took the hole shot and never looked back.  Eichner brought his Polaris RANGER RZR across the checkers clinching the WORCS 2008  UTV National Championship.  Doug’s first year behind the wheel racing a UTV was nothing less than fantastic and showcased both the natural driving ability of Eichner and prowess the RANGER RZR has on the racetrack.

Sunday morning’s ATV Pro Main Event had all the racers ready early as race time had moved to an early morning start time due to festivities planned for later in the day.  Eichner was ready for business, but missed the holeshot he was gunning for and had to make his way through a few riders to get some clean air.  Eichner fought hard for second place making a spectacular pass through a log and tire section that had earlier caused at least a 10-bike pile up. Eichner closed the gap and was on the bumper plate of the leader and then lead the event for a lap and a half. The need for a pit stop unfortunately changed the positions of the top riders and Eichner fell to third.  Making up 19 seconds in a lap was still not enough to get to the checkers in time for the win, but did put the Outlaw 450 MXR on the Pro Podium for a third place finish for the ATV Pro Main and a fourth Overall in the WORCS Series for 2008.

The WORCS awards banquet held Sunday evening, Eichner was presented with five globe awards to signify his five years of WORCS Championship titles.  Guests enjoyed an Eichner Trivia Game with questions such as “how many pro wins has Eichner earned in the WORCS Series?”  Eichner himself didn’t know the answer of 45!

Eichner thanked his team sponsors, crew, friends and support of his family.  Doug also congratulated the 2008 WORCS Champion and added, “We learned a lot this year and I am excited to fight for the WORCS crown in 2009!”

“Polaris Racing is very excited about Eichner’s first UTV National Championship and effort with the Outlaw 450 MXR,” said Eric Nault, race team manager for Polaris. “This is our first full season with the Outlaw 450 MXR in the WORCS series.  We learned a lot this season and funneled that information back to our R&D departments to make improvements for 2009 season. Next season, Eichner will be piloting our new 2009 Outlaw 450 MXR and battling for another championship.”

In other WORCS news, Angela Butler, secured the Women’s A Championship at round 7 of the WORCS Series in Milford, CA with a dominating performance on the track and a flawless mechanical year in 2008 at WORCS aboard the Outlaw 450 MXR.

Eichner’s year is not finished yet, as the Polaris/Lone Star/Eichner Racing Team are gunning for the ITP QuadCross Open Pro Crown aboard the Outlaw 525 S.  Eichner currently holds a 12-point lead with the final QuadCross Round scheduled for November 30, at Speedworld Raceway, in San Bernadino, Calif.

Official Sponsors of the Polaris / Lone Star / Eichner Racing Team:

Polaris Industries, Inc.
Lone Star Racing
Eichner Racing
MAXXIS Tires
Yoshimura R&D of America, Inc.
Rage’n Luxury Toy Haulers
FOX Racing Shox
Douglas Wheel Technologies, Inc.
IMS / PowerMadd
GPR Stabilizer
O ‘ Neal Racing
TAG Metals
WISECO Performance Products
ARC Racing - MX240V Boots/Corona Boots
Tireballs
TRAXXAS - Remote Control Cars
Performance Carbon Products
Rath Racing
ONE Industries
Fullbore Innovations
MasterCraft
iTi Performance Motorsports
Smith Optics
Velocity FIlters
MotoX Nutrition
Hinson Racing
Motion Pro
Updog Industries
Golden West Cycle

Team High Lifter-Polaris Racing continues to keep their winning streak going as they competed at Mudstock in Jacksonville, Texas on October 11th, 2008 at Mud Creek Off Road Park.   This year Mudstock featured the Swampcross, Buddy Run and Mudbog competitions for ATV enthusiasts to participate in.

In the Swampcross Event, team racer Josh Gorman finished in first place in the RUV Class in a 2009 Polaris Ranger RZR-S.  Teammate Blake Mann came in second in the Super Pro Class in the Swampcross on his Polaris Sportsman 800 while Team High Lifter – Polaris Racer Maggie Robertson came in third in the Pro Class on her Polaris Sportsman 500.

In the Mudbog, team racer Brian Robertson finished third in the RUV Class while teammate Adam Schumaker finished in third place in the Super Pro Class on his Polaris Sportsman 800.  In the two man Buddy Run competition, Team High Lifter-Polaris Racers Josh Gorman and Adam Schumaker finished in first place in their 2009 Polaris Ranger RZR-S.  Team High Lifter-Polaris Racing will add more trophies to their collection on October 18th, 2008 in Lebanon, TN at The Tennessee Mudfest. For a complete schedule and more information on Team High Lifter-Polaris Racing see their official site at http://www.highlifter.com/racing/.

About High Lifter
High Lifter Products, Inc. has been developing and marketing unique, after-market accessories for utility, 4-wheel drive ATVs since 1996.  In this short time, the company has grown from a one-man, backyard hobby into a 35 employee, multi-million dollar corporation.  High Lifter operates from a 27,700 square foot facility located in Shreveport, Louisiana, which includes a retail showroom, a warehouse, a performance shop, and executive offices.  The website, www.highlifter.com, is visited by almost 200,000 visitors per month, and includes a full product catalog, a chat room and forum, games, an online ATV magazine, and many more informative and entertaining features.

About Polaris
With annual 2007 sales of $1.8 billion, Polaris designs, engineers, manufactures and markets all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), including the Polaris RANGER™,  snowmobiles and Victory motorcycles for recreational and utility use.
Polaris is a recognized leader in the snowmobile industry; and one of the largest manufacturers of ATVs in the world. Victory motorcycles, established in 1998 and representing the first all-new American-made motorcycle from a major company in nearly 60 years, are rapidly making impressive in-roads into the motorcycle cruiser and touring marketplace. Polaris also enhances the riding experience with a complete line of Pure Polaris apparel, accessories and parts, available at Polaris dealerships.
Polaris Industries Inc. trades on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “PII,” and the Company is included in the S&P Small-Cap 600 stock price index.
Information about the complete line of Polaris products, apparel and vehicle accessories are available from authorized Polaris dealers or anytime from the Polaris homepage at www.polarisindustries.com.

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My new raptor a few days after getting it.

It has come to Fasst Company’s attention that ATV Four-Play is offering for sale the Soft Bar ATV handlebar that appears to infringe Fasst Company’s U.S. patent # 6,860,500.  Fasst Company has spent considerable time and money researching and developing the design and functionality of the extremely popular Flexx Handlebar System.  Through our intellectual property law firm, Knobbe, Martens, Olson and Bear LLP, Fasst Company has also invested significant resources in obtaining intellectual property protection for the Flexx Handlebar System, including the 6,860,500 patent.

ATV fourplay’s soft bar - see the flexx bar resemblance?

Fasst Company wishes to make clear to the industry that it has not licensed ATV Four-Play under the 6,860,500 patent nor has it condoned the blatant copying of the Flexx Handlebar System by ATV Four-Play.

“Sometime Tuesday our phone and email systems became overwhelmed with calls and emails from customers, racers, dealers, and industry associates concerning ATV Four-Play’s deliberate copying of our Flexx Handlebar. It is a great complement to us as a company to know we have such great support from our loyal customers and industry associates.  Obviously these people realize the care and sacrifice we make to bring authentic original products to market and were concerned by such a lack of respect for Fasst Company and our intellectual property,” said Cole Townsend, Fasst Company’s President.  “Our technology and customer service along with our commitment to only manufacture our products in the United States out of the best materials is what separates our company and handlebar from everyone else’s. It is unfortunate that we have to take action, but we will protect our technology by any means required.”

Based on the striking similarity between the Soft Bar and the Flexx Handlebar, ATV Four-Play’s activities appear to be a willful disregard of Fasst Company’s intellectual property rights. ATV Four-Play has shown a lack of respect for Fasst Company, our patent, and traditional notions of fair play. Their actions are unauthentic and disingenuous to the ATV industry and enthusiasts as a whole. Although imitation is a form of flattery, in the context of patent infringement it is also a form of stealing. ATV Four-Plays actions are unacceptable and Fasst Company will not stand for them.

Fasst Company is currently assessing its options for response to ATV Four-Play’s willful disregard of Fasst Company’s intellectual property rights.

Fasst Company
3015 East South Street
Long Beach, CA. 90805
(562) 601-8119
www.fasstco.com

About Fasst Company:
Fasst Company is a rider driven company, made up of racers stemming 3 generations. Our mission is to provide customers with 100% American Products that add value to their racing programs, while offering the best customer service in the industry…period.

The bridge going from St. Croix State Forest to Danbury, WI area. Tes, you can ride across it!

Riding in Nemadji State Forest

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BikeMaster a Leading PowerSports brand released an All-New State-of-the-Art Battery Charger for all PowerSport customer needs. The release comes just in time for the cold weather months. The new ChargeMaster 365TD completes a fulline of BikeMaster battery chargers. This exciting product is now available from your local PowerSports dealers, through Tucker Rocky Distributing. Use our dealer locator on our consumer web-site www.PowerSportRider.com, to find the nearest dealer.

Suggested Retail Price $89.95

Get a Christmas gift you both can enjoy…. Make your rig ride on air like Santa’s sleigh! Save your back and seat from a rough ride with a Legend Air Suspension system. 

Legend Air Suspension uses exclusive Kevlar Air Spring technology and deflective disc dampening to eliminate annoying pogo action, offering the smoothest ride quality with no bottoming out under any trail condition or load conditions. Easy toggle operations adjust on the go for increased ground clearance, increased load capacity and increased articulation whether empty or fully loaded. Lowers up to 5 inches on most models for transportation in toy haulers and enclosed trailers. Corrosive resistant finished shocks mount in stock location. Kit comes with shocks and all necessary hardware for easy installation including on-board air compressor, front and rear toggle switches with plug and play wiring.

Currently fitting: 2004-2009 Yamaha Rhino, 2008-2009 Kawasaki Teryx, 2008-2009 Polaris RZR (S model coming soon), 2004-2009 Polaris Ranger (rear only), and 2006-2009 Arctic Cat Prowler. More models will be available soon!

Limited Lifetime warranty

Proudly made in the USA since 1998

Go to www.independentcycleinc.com http://www.independentcycleinc.com to learn more.

Showing how this old fat guy gets down.

Pro Armor has decided to make its number one selling bumper for the KTM 450/525.  The Pro XC front bumper doesn’t just add style to your quad but provides more than adequate coverage for any type of riding you may be doing.

For the first time ever we are proud to offer the Pro XC front bumper in powder coated black.  If function, protection and a great looking bumper is what you are after then pick up a Pro XC bumper by Pro Armor today.  You can find them at your local dealer, by contacting Pro Armor direct at 888.312.7667 or go to www.proarmor.com to order yours today!

Pro XC bumper retails for only $139.95

Fort Worth, Texas (September1, 2008) – BikeMaster a Leading PowerSports brand announced that they will now offer a complete line of premium Air and Oil Filters for all major OEM brands in the Motorcycle and ATV Industry. These exciting product lines are now available to all PowerSports dealers through Tucker Rocky Distributing. Use our dealer locator on our consumer web-site www.PowerSportRider.com, to find the nearest dealer.

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My new Raptor 250 a few days after i got it.

Pennsylvania’s Chris Borich clearly has his Rockstar Yoshimura Suzuki LT-R 450 figured out, as he completed a book end of the 2008 Can-Am Grand National Cross Country tour with a victory at the Klotz Ironman GNCC in Crawfordsville, Indiana. Borich won the series’ opener in Florida but struggled at mid season before winning a dramatic duel at the final series’ round.

“We were all just battling all day, it was wide open out there,” said Borich. “We’ve got this Suzuki figured out on the muddy tracks, should be good for 2009.”

GNCC XC2 Champion Don Ockerman finished second for the second-straight race on his GT Thunder Yamaha, an impressive debut in the XC1 pro class. GNCC Champion Bill Ballance rounded out the podium on his Yamaha, edging FRE KTM’s Adam McGill by inches.

Ballance grabbed the ITP Holeshot Award and battled with Borich all day. Borich led as the pack took the white flag, but Ballance made a move to get into the lead. By then Ballance had lost his goggles from following Borich through the mud, and he took a bad line through a mud hole, allowing Borich and Ockerman to get past him.

“I thought we had it won, but I couldn’t see that well, Chris was really throwing it on me,” said Ballance. “I took a line that I thought looked pretty good, but it turned out to be a terrible line and I almost got stuck.”

Ockerman followed Borich through to take second, which resulted in major cheers from his local Indiana fans. “We tried a different strategy in the pits, we pitted a lap late,” said Ockerman. “It helped us get in front and pull a gap, and we almost pulled it off. Once I had to pit I went back a few spots, but when I got around Ballance, I couldn’t believe it. I was so excited, I just held it wide open to the finish.”

Ballance kept battling with McGill, and the two pushed side-by-side through the final whoop section before the finish. Ballance held off McGill by half of a tire length for third. McGill took fourth, while Warnert Racing Can-Am’s Chris Bithell completed the top five.

After clinching the 2008 GNCC Bike Championship, David Knight entered the ATV race in the XC1 pro class for fun. Knighter finished the full two hours, claiming 22nd in the class and 49th overall.

With Ockerman out of the XC2 division, Tom Clark Motorsports’ Josh Kirkland railed to another win ahead of National Guard’s Mark Nottman and Kawasaki rider Dustin Canipe, who also grabbed the Rekluse Holeshot award.

While Ballance and McGill had already wrapped up their titles in the XC1 and XC2 classes, respectively, the Women’s Championship remained up for grabs between Yamaha’s Traci Cecco and Tom Clark Motorsports’ Angel Atwell. Both riders suffered through crashes, bad luck and misfortune throughout the day, at one point even locking their two machines together in a field section. Late in the race, Cecco rallied to get the class win and with it her seventh GNCC Womens Title.

“I was nervous, I admit it,” said Cecco. “I haven’t even been able to sleep lately. I got a bad start, I hit a tree on the first lap, and then Angel and I came together in a field, I couldn’t believe it, we were locked. She got out ahead of me, but I just told myself to calm down and take my time. I managed to pass her and it was looking good, but then I went over the bars on the last lap. I’m just so relieved right now.”

Bryan Buckhannon led wire to wire to win the ATVRiders.com Morning Race Overall on his ATV Parts Plus/LTERacing.com Can-Am. Scott Kilby finished second and Robert Smith finished third, winning the U2 class.

Josh Merritt won the Youth Race overall and also claimed the 2008 GNCC Youth Championship on his Cobra.

The Can-Am Grand National Cross Country Series concludes with tomorrow’s bike racing at the Ironman.

Results:
Klotz Ironman GNCC
Crawfordsville, IN
October 25, 2008
XC1 Class

1.Chris Borich (Suz)
2.Don Ockerman (Yam)
3.Bill Ballance (Yam)
4.Adam McGill (KTM)
5.Chris Bithell (Can)
6.Brandon Sommers (Yam)
7.Bryan Cook (Hon)
8.Jarrod McClure (Hon)
9.Ryan Lane (Hon)
10.Matt Smiley (Hon)

Can-Am Grand National Cross Country Series points:

Ballance 283
Borich 241
McGill 236
Cook 223
Sommers 215

About GNCC Racing:
The Can-Am Grand National Cross Country series is America’s premier off-road racing series. The 13-round championship series is produced exclusively by Racer Productions and has run since 1973. Cross country racing is one of the most physically demanding sports in the world. The nearly three-hour long GNCC races lead as many as 1,800 riders through tracks ranging from eight to twelve miles in length. With varied terrain including hills, woods, mud, dirt, rocks and motocross sections, GNCC events are tests of both survival and speed. GNCC Racing will air weekly television shows on the Versus network starting August 2. GNCC featured sponsors include Can-Am, Parts Unlimited, Moose Racing, Maxxis, Pirelli, Wiseco, Acerbis, Elka, Geico, Klotz, FMF, ITP and Weekend Warrior, and riders compete for over $3 million in series prizes and contingency money. Associate sponsors include Alpinestars, Cometic, HiPer Technology, Laegers, Moose Utility Division, The National Guard, Powersport Grafx, REM, Scott, Thor, Tire Balls, Twin Air, Ogio, Rekluse, and MotoTee’s. For more information log on towww.gnccracing.com.

FRE/KTM Factory rider Adam McGill earned fourth overall after an all-day battle with Bill Ballance at the Ironman Finale – round 13 of the GNCC Series.

McGill had a great day earning a top five start alongside his teammate Taylor Kiser. McGill hung with the top four riders as they entered into the woods and would remain with the lead pack throughout the race. Kiser, who was upfront early, unfortunately became tangled with Brandon Ballance right before the woods section only to recover at the back of the pack.

While McGill battled for second place up front, Kiser was busy charging through competitors on his way to the front of the pack. He eventually worked his way up from sixteenth to sixth with a lap and a half to go when he got stuck in a bottle neck. The bottle neck cost him precious time and valuable positions. He eventually got out but was only able to salvage eleventh by the time the checkered flag flew. “I had some bad luck today with one crash and getting stuck in a bottleneck, but I had a fun season and I am looking forward to training hard and coming back even stronger next year,” commented Kiser.

McGill was trying to make the pass on Bill Ballance for second place approximately 600 yards from the finish when the two collided and were both passed by Donald Ockerman. Ballance got going first and crossed the line in third while McGill finished right behind him in fourth. “I am happy with my finish today. I finished third in the overall series points which makes me very happy for my first year on a new team and a new bike,” stated McGill.

The FRE/KTM Factory Race team had a great first season with both riders finishing on the podium numerous times throughout the season. McGill finished third in the series with teammate Kiser only a few spots back in sixth. “I think for KTM’s first year in the ATV GNCC Series and for our first year on this bike – the team did great! We are very proud of our two riders and all the work the team put in to making this a successful season for FRE/KTM,” said FRE/KTM Team Manager Tim Farr.

Red Bull KTM rider and current GNCC XC-1 Motorcycle Champion, David Knight also competed in the XC-1 ATV class. Knight finished the race in 22nd and had a great time. “I have always enjoyed racing ATV’s and thought this would be a fun and exciting way to end the season. It was a lot harder than I expected but well worth it. Thanks to my team for this opportunity – I had a blast,” commented Knight.

Overall Results

1)    Chris Borich
2)    Donald Ockerman
3)    Bill Ballance
4)    Adam McGill – KTM
5)    Chris Bithell
6)    Bryan Cook
7)    Brandon Sommers
8)    Jarrod McClure
9)    Ryan Lane
10)  Matthew Smiley
11)  Taylor Kiser – KTM

Overall Series Points

1)    Bill Ballance – 283
2)    Chris Borich – 241
3)    Adam McGill – 222
4)    Brandon Sommers – 212
5)    Bryan Cook – 211
6)    Taylor Kiser – 160

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Video clips of me riding

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The VX-14 is a feature-rich off-road helmet with a variety of new graphics.  Solid colors retail for under $130. From its very effective ventilation system to its breathable, removable and washable KwikWick® liner, the VX-14 was developed in real world riding conditions with features and construction that rival much more expensive helmets on the market.  The Rocker graphic is just one of the exciting new graphics presented this season from ScorpionEXO™.

Features

1. Advanced Polycarbonate Composite Engineered Shell: High-tech, lightweight and tough.

2. KwikWick® moisture-wicking helmet liner and cheek pads: Breathable, easily removable and washable.

3. Fully-adjustable, aero-tuned visor: Reduces lift at high speeds.

4. Ventilation System: Large intake manifolds and aero-tuned rear vents maximize airflow through the helmet.

5. Large Eyeport: Fits all goggles and provides maximum visibility.

6. Roost Deflector:  All new Roost deflection for 2008.

7. Strap Grip: Minimizes goggle shifting and movement.

8. Padded chinstrap with KwikWick® cover: Increased comfort.

9. Custom liner and cheek pad kits: Available in hot colors and wild patterns.

10. Snell/DOT Certified.

Sizes, Colors and Prices
Sizes: XS-S-M-L-XL-2X.
Colors: Berry, Neon, Gold, International Orange, Black, Sea
Price: $149.95.

Solid color VX-14 models start at $129.95.

KTM is proud to announce the launch of its new KTM Ultimate Fan Experience Program at the Final round of the AMA EnduroCross Series at the Orleans Arena Saturday, November 22, 2008.

KTM fans are invited to cheer on their favorite KTM riders from the designated KTM section in the Orleans Arena. If you are a KTM fan and planning to attend the EnduroCross, there is no better way to enjoy the show than in the KTM seating area. Tickets cost $50.00 each and include a free 2009 KTM t-shirt and KTM hat to wear the day of the event that will ensure the KTM fans stand out in the crowd. Each KTM fan will also receive a meet and greet with Red Bull KTM Factory rider Taddy Blazusiak before the final moto on Saturday night!

To purchase your KTM Ultimate Fan Experience tickets please send an email to: endurocross@ktmusa.com.

Back in our September 2008 issue we did a write up on one of the CMR stops. Included in that article was ten tips on how to become a competitive mud racer. We thought we would share that article online with you this week. 

If you’re interested in building a competitive mud-racing four-wheeler, check out these tips from the pros. A number of these tips are race specific, so do some research before considering making the transformation.

•Second place is the first loser, that’s why holeshots always count, even in mud racing. Getting the holeshot could mean the difference between pulling a winning line or getting stuck behind the winner.

•Snorkels are a vital part of every mudder’s machine. Just having them is not enough; they need to be well positioned. A little splash of water or the massive initial grand slam dive into the bog can welcome in enough water to present some real danger to your transmission’s belt. The better you can keep the snorkels protected, the better chance you have of finishing the bog on top.

•Now to get things rolling, you should consider your options. There are many tire manufacturers producing mud-specific tires. High Lifter’s Outlaw tires have been race proven and seem to be the hot ticket amongst racers. Gorilla Axle is another player that recently debuted a tire line called the Silverbacks. Those two brands are probably going to give you the biggest bite in just about any pit you face.

•Tires aren’t the only things spinning around…you can’t forget about your wheels. They also play a hefty roll in conquering the pits. High Lifter recently began manufacturing the Crushlok wheel, which is a new radically designed wheel specifically catered to mud racing. The wheel is rather simple—it is a steel plate in which the tire’s bead is pinched together against the plate using two steel rings, making it as streamlined as possible. The finished setup looks simular to a double beadlocked wheel, but it holds less air than it would with a standard wheel and is less prone to floating while significantly improving tire bite and traction. 

•Oversized tires really play a number on your quad’s clutch. Anytime you make the change from stock to bigger tires, you should clutch your quad accordingly. Going to a high stall speed is never the way to go unless you enjoy glazing your belt, which will cause it to fail and leave you standing still in the middle of the bog waiting for someone to winch you out.

If you missed out on the first five tips follow this link to see what you’re missing

Yamaha Racing will converge on the Grand National Cross Country (GNCC) Ironman Finale this weekend in Crawfordsville, Indiana, to celebrate another championship season.  Yamaha’s festivities will include race team autograph sessions, the first public showing of the highly-anticipated YFZ450R and a hospitality area for fans and kids.

Bill Ballance, Yamaha’s top veteran, recently locked in his record breaking ninth consecutive GNCC ATV XC1 Pro championship, aboard his YFZ450, while Donnie Ockerman, a Yamaha up-and-comer, secured his first XC2 Pro Am championship.  Another Yamaha champion, Traci Cecco, will have her final battle in her quest for an unprecedented seventh women’s title.  Traci currently leads the women’s series by a point.

More details of this weekend’s activities include:

Yamaha’s ATV Race Team Autograph Sessions:

• Friday, 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., at Action Motorsports in Lafayette, Indiana (www.actionmotorsports.com).
• Saturday, (approximately) 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., at Yamaha’s display area at the race track.

Yamaha YFZ450R and Championship Celebration and Fan Hospitality:

• Public showing of the all-new, not-yet-available YFZ450R; on display all weekend at Yamaha’s display area.
• Hot chocolate, popcorn, and Halloween candy given away all weekend at Yamaha’s display area.
• Public demo rides on board Yamaha sport and utility ATVs (weather permitting) throughout the weekend at Yamaha’s display area.

About Yamaha Motor Corp., U.S.A.
Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. (YMUS), a leader in the motorsports market, makes the toughest, most capable and versatile ATV and Side-by-Side vehicles. The company’s ever-expanding product offerings also include motorcycles, outboard motors, personal watercraft, snowmobiles, boats, outdoor power equipment, race kart engines, accessories, apparel and much more. YMUS products are sold through a nationwide network of more than 4,000 dealers in the United States.

Headquartered in Cypress, Calif., since its incorporation in 1977, YMUS also has facilities in Wisconsin and Georgia, as well as factory operations in Tennessee and Georgia. For more information on Yamaha, visit www.yamaha-motor.com

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Back in our September 2008 issue we did a write up on one of the CMR stops. Included in that article was ten tips on how to become a competitive mud racer. We thought we would share that article online with you this week. 

If you’re interested in building a competitive mud-racing four-wheeler, check out these tips from the pros. A number of these tips are race specific, so do some research before considering making the transformation.

•Proper setup of your quad is the key to success. Not all racetracks are the same, so the same setup won’t work at every venue. Pits vary from sticky peanut butter-like mud to watery slop, so take some time to learn what setups work best in each condition and always come prepared for the pit in front of you.

•Mud boggers are a lot like tightrope walkers—balance is key, especially when running the watery pits. You need to balance the front and rear of your quad and keep as many tires as possible in contact with the floor of the pit. This will get you across faster.

•Keep your front end down. When it comes to competitive mud racing, having your front end bobbling high out of the water is going to cost you precious time. Many racers are resorting to mounting weights to the front end of their quads to help keep them from floating up.

•Body position is incredibly important. You need to keep your weight to the front of your machine and put your body into the turns. Lean right to turn right, lean left to turn left, and don’t be afraid to get aggressive while you are racing. Hang a leg off if you need to.

•Keep an eye on the heats before yours, study the track carefully, and pick your lines. Avoid falling into holes—they can get extremely nasty. Don’t be afraid to lift off the throttle if that’s what it takes to move over a lane to a better line.

We will post five more great mud racing tips on Friday feel free to post additional tips below

Jon Guetter Backflipping his Can Am ds450 in Poland

CAN AM OUTLANDER 800cc

The already stealthy Outlander just got a punch of additional power and torque with the new DMC Afterburner Quiet Slip On. The increase in torque, smooth usable powerband, and improved acceleration time greatly enhances the Outlander’s performance with a 12% increase in horsepower along with a 16% torque increase. This Quiet Slip On meets the Forestry legal sound level of less than 96 db’s*, so you can have all the power on demand you want while keeping Ricky Ranger off your back. The DMC Outlander Slip On comes equipped U.S. Forestry approved spark arrestor and the exclusive DMC S.O.S. (Save our Sport) Quiet Insert, which not only reduces sound, but also provides the Outlander with an increase in smooth, tractable power.

For even more performance improvement, DMC offers an EFI Control module that is mapped to compliment the performance increase of the exhaust system and deliver every ounce of torque and horsepower in a smooth and responsive power curve. It’s fully adjustable with three simple buttons on the faceplate to adjust the fuel curve richer or leaner in each area of the map. Advanced engineering eliminates the need for complicated computer programs or interfaces. Everything is controlled directly on the EFI Control Module. Our testing has proven this combination of exhaust and an EFI Control Module to be a lethal combination resulting in maximum output in horsepower and torque

Outlander 800 Afterburner Quiet Slip On:

•    U.S. Forestry approved Spark Arrestor included.
•    Quiet Systems <96dB 100% TIG welded.
•    “S.O.S.” Quiet core baffle.
•    MIL-A-8625F Type III anodizing.
•    Precision Laser Cut Stainless Steel Exhaust Flanges.
•    Billet Aircraft Alloy muffler brackets, no cheap steel muffler bands
•    Super long life replaceable muffler cartridge.
•    Easy access muffler repack system, no rivets to drill.
•    AMA/FIM legal end cap
•    Designed and manufactured in U.S.
•    12% horsepower and 16% horsepower gain

DMC Afterburner Exhaust systems are available at finer power sports dealers, or direct at
www.dmc-on-line.com

MSRP
Quiet Slip On    / Retail $299.95 / Part # 25823-01
DMC EFI Control / Retail $284.95 / Part # 25990-50

* Sound results achieved using SAE J-1287 on an unmodified, stock engine w/ DMC Exhaust.

APPLICATION 2008 KAWASAKI KFX450

THE HOP UP Thirty-four-year-old Brandon Brown of Umatilla, Oregon, grew up a tried-and-ture Honda guy. His first ATV was a three-wheeled Honda 200s, and then he progressed to racing 250Rs, and then TRX450Rs. Everything he rode and raced was red from the early 80s until 2008. Three open-pro-class championships and two times as runner-up for the overall ATV in the WORCS races landed him a Team Green Factory Support ride with Motosport.com Kawasaki. One of the coolest things about a factory support ride is that while Kawasaki would be supplying the ATVs, Brandon would be able to carry over any and all previous sponsors to build his new race quads.

The first thing Brandon did after getting his Kawi 450 was get it over to LRD for some arm-wrenching-yet-reliable horsepower. LRD first ported the head and then added in a multi-angle valve job and a 13.5:1 Wiseco piston. The KFX450 intake has been proven to be very restrictive, so LRD hand built a replacement that flows much better. Then an LRD Pro 4 injection controller was added, as well as boring the throttle body and installing an oversized throttle plate. LRD installed its anniversary edition pipe that produces great power while keeping the decibel rating at 94-95 dB, easily passing the sound tests at all of the WORCS vvenues. LRD also went with stock KX450F dirt bike cams and had the intake cam reground by Crower. The end result is a rocket ship of a 450 at 59.13 peak horsepower and 37 foot-pounds of torque.

With an engine package now capable of competing at any pro-level race venue, Brandon had to make it handle. ARS FX designed a long-travel A-arm package that not only provides the Kawi with great useable suspension travel, but also more frontend clearance than any other front end on the market. ARS FX also supplied one of its long-travel linkages to help the rear end work like the front. Brandon chose to pair his ARS FX suspension package with FOX Float X Evol DSC front shocks and a Fox Podium X DSC Long-travel shock in the rear. Brandon has been a firm believer in Fox Racing shox for a few years and has become spoiled by the ease and amount of adjustability that they possess. Brandon says that the Fox DSC shocks allow the user to adjust for maximum traction without sacrificing any smoothness or plushness of the ride.

Brandon uses Massix Razr2 tires in the front and Razr tires in the rear, which is a very popular combination in both WORCS racing and the GNCC series. His Maxxis tires are wrapped around HiPer-Technology CF1 beadlocks, with the Tire Johny’s flat protection insert system, creating one of the most lightweight, strongest, flat-proof tire and wheel combinations on the market.

An IMS desert tank with dry break is installed as a necessity for the hour-and-a-half-long moto, as is a super-trick UPP polyurethane rear skid plate, case saver, and chain roller/slider package. Brandon next installed an X Factor bumper, nerfs, and belly pan skid plate for additional protection. To aide in further protecting the machine, as well as looking ultra trick, the Motorsport.com Kawi uses Fullbore plastic and a PC Carbon hood cover, carbon front cowling, and shock guards.

Next up was the more personal, unique addition that Brandon swears by—a Rekluse Z-Start Pro Clutch, which is used to entirely eliminate the need for hand clutching. This semi-automatic clutch used along with the Rekluse Hand brake kit allows for complete control of the back brake with the fingers of your left hand.

For the full story see issue 28 pages 102-107

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Dustin Nelson earned his fourth overall win of the season en route to the ITP QuadCross championship, winning both motos in the process.

Nelson pulled the holeshot in the first moto and stretched out a big lead as most of the pack slowed behind him due to a first-lap tangle. In moto two, fellow YFZ450 rider Justin Noss get the holeshot with Reed Petchnick in second and Nelson in third. Nelson slid into second on the first lap and got past Noss two laps later by carrying more momentum over a windy jump that put Noss sideways. He then built up a comfortable lead for the win, with Noss going 5-2 in the twin motos for third overall.

“The track was really rough and had a lot of deep, square-edged holes but my bike was working really good over them,” Nelson said.

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New for 2009

ENGINE:

• 695cc, EFI, SOHC 4-stroke, 4-valve, single-cylinder, liquid cooled engine

• The “H” in H1 stands for Hemi. The hemispherical-shaped head creates more complete, more efficient combustion for performance-winning power

• An Arctic Cat produced performance engine built in the state-of-the-art St. Cloud manufacturing facility

• The potent H1 motor has led Team Arctic racers to two consecutive championships in the World Powersports Association (WPSA) Quad Terrain races.

• Electronic Fuel Injection aids in perfect starting no matter what altitude or temperature changes.

• Liquid cooling system with high-capacity radiator and thermostatically-controlled cooling fan provides consistent engine operating temperatures

• The Duramatic Automatic Transmission has a long-life maintenance-free belt that withstands the harshest of conditions.

MUD PRO FEATURES:

• Elevated Intake and Clutch snorkels keep the CVT belt dry and cool through the deepest holes.

• Mud Pro specific EFI calibrations tuned for increased intake snorkel design to produce maximum horsepower (System does not retrofit other FIS Arctic Cats)

• Mud Pro specific 4.0 gearing and clutching tuned in harmony with the EFI mapping to provide the ultimate performance gains in low end torque and acceleration.

• Competition suspension calibration has preload and valving updates specific for the mud riders needs.

• All-new machined aluminum wheels are wrapped in 28” Highlifter Outlaw MST tires and the body work is painted in Competition Green Metallic.

CHASSIS/SUSPENSION:

Machined Aluminum Wheels

• All new 12” machined aluminum wheel design has an optimized scrub radius minimizing the rider steering effort.

Positive Shifting

• A new shift detent profile in the lever linkage allows for improved positive shifting

Thundercat Halfshafts

• Developed from the Quad Terrain Race circuit, all-new halfshafts (axles) were adopted from the Thundercat to increase durability and strength for the most brutal offroad conditions.

New Headlight Bulb Sockets

• The right-hand headlight bulb sockets have been redesigned to eliminate the bulb popping out, decreasing the chance of the headlight housing filling with moisture.

Fully Independent Suspension (FIS) How it works with or without a swaybar

• Arctic Cat ATVs have an optional sway bar available as an accessory purchase through your authorized dealer. Similar to any off-road 4×4 vehicle, eliminating the sway bar, lets the 10” of front or rear Fully Independent Suspension articulate through the full range of suspension travel. This increased articulation provides full tire contact in all types of off-camber terrain. The addition of the sway bar will impact the traction capabilities; however, it will enhance flatter cornering in aggressive trail riding

Industry Leading Ground Clearance

• 14” of ground clearance enhances the ability to navigate through mud or over large rocks, logs, and other objects encountered in rough terrain

Large Capacity SpeedRacks

• Industry leading weight capacity and overall cargo carrying surface area allows 100 lb carrying capacity on the front rack and 200 lbs. on the rear

SpeedRack Technology

• Allows very quick installation and removal of a wide variety of Arctic Cat exclusive accessories without the need for tools, bloody knuckles or swearing

• SpeedRack and its accessories add value to the machine and also enhance the efficiency of your hunting, fishing, farming or utility chores

2-Inch Automotive Style Receiver Hitch

• This feature allows the consumer to remove the hitch from their 2” automotive receiver and install it into the ATV’s receiver hitch

Floating Hydraulic Disc Brakes

• Low maintenance, positive stopping power in either dry or wet conditions

Adjustable Shocks

• Set the spring preload (5 rear positions, 5 front positions) on the shocks to tailor the ride to individual riding styles, terrains and loads

Electric Shift 2-to 4-Wheel Drive with new Electric Front Locking Differential

• Full-lock front differential transfers engine torque to both front wheels when selected for added traction with an all-new electronic rocker switch located on the gauge pod while 4wd/2wd switch is located on right-side handlebar for quick, convenient shifting in-and-out of four-wheel drive.

ADDITIONAL FEATURES:

Tires

• The Outlaw MST is specially designed for riders who play in the mud but may not spend all their time there. 28-9.5×12(front) and 28-12×12(rear) offers the ultimate in all-around performance.

• With deep lugs, wraparound tread bars, and side sipes seen on tires designed for snow and ice, they offer the maximum in all around traction while delivering a smooth ride on hard pack.

• M: Mud – The Outlaw MST is fully capable of handling the deepest mud holes. With one-inch tread depth across the face and shoulder, the MST is an excellent mud tire for the majority of mud riders.

• S: Snow – The Outlaw MST is designed for traction in the snow. With significant sidewall wrap, the MST is excellent for grabbing snow and ice and plowing through even the deepest snow covered terrain.

• T: Trail – The Outlaw MST is designed for a smooth ride on the trails. With a flattened tread profile with multiple sipes that create traction on both hard-pack and slick surfaces, the MST delivers a smoother, easier handling ride than most deep lug tires.

Color Options

• Competition Green Metallic

Key Buying Points

1. The H1 revolution of hemi-producing power has dominated with EFI. As you can imagine, the 700 H1 EFI has a powerful 695cc, SOHC, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine, designed for a wide torque curve with the smoothest power delivery via Electronic Fuel Injection. Cold weather starting and altitude changes are no longer questionable.

2. The stance and suspension were addressed with competition spring and shock valving and preload changes tailored specifically for the Mud Pro’s taller Highlifter Outlaw MST tires. Clutching is specifically tuned for the 4.0 gears. Arctic Cat tuned both in harmony with the EFI mapping to provide the ultimate performance gains in low end torque and acceleration.

3. An elevated Intake and Clutch snorkel to keep the CVT belt dry and cool through the deepest holes. The Mud Pro snorkel system takes the guesswork out of designing one in your garage. Specific EFI calibrations tuned in conjunction with the gearing, clutching, intake and tires produce the maximum horsepower in all conditions. (System does not retrofit other FIS Arctic Cats)

4. Switching from 2WD to 4WD is as simple as pressing a handlebar mounted shift button, while activating the front diff-lock is now easier as pushing the all-new electronic rocker switch button located on the instrument pod. A 2-in. “automotive style” receiver hitch, long-range 6.5-gallon fuel tank, digital instrument pod (MPH, odometer, dual trip meters, hour meter, clock and fuel level) and Start-In-Gear capability complete the package.

5. Race-derived Competition Green Metallic painted fenders can be waxed and buffed. To cap off the Mud Pro package, front and rear heavy duty bumpers are standard, 2,500lb winch, rolling on an all-new 12” aluminum wheel are wrapped with aggressive 28” Highlifter Outlaw MST tires.

hey everyone i have always wanted to model for quads when i was little i was a model and it would be a dream come true to be able to be your NEXT girl. I love having fun and taking pictures so YES i would love to be the next girl for you!!!

Kawasaki invited us out to Milestone MX park in Riverside, California yesterday to check out and ride Josh Creamer’s race bike. I was the first to jump at the opportunity and decided to share this video I took of the bike for you. Enjoy!!!

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