A $10,000 purse, with $5,000 to win, has been posted for the Second Annual ATV Open. The invitational event is scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 30, at Steel City Raceway in Delmont, Pa.

In addition to the cash prize, the AMA will award a special No. 1 plate to the ATV Open winner.

“In just one year, this race has grown into professional ATV racing’s premier annual championship event,” says AMA ATV race series manager Harv Whipple. “The event’s invitational format is truly unique, allowing the factories to choose their riders, which enables us to pit the best of the best in ATV racing against each other on Steel City’s tough and exciting track.

The Polaris/Lonestar/Eichner Racing proved to be both tough and successful at the World Off-Road Championship Series (WORCS) event held in Olympia, Wash., Aug. 15-17.

Doug Eichner, who entered WORCS Round 6 with a broken toe and injured shoulder, fought through the pain as he took on the demanding 90-minute race. Despite his injuries, Eichner and his Outlaw 450 MXR turned in a commendable fifth place finish in the Pro Main Event.

Additionally, Eichner and co-pilot Larry Heidler took on the side-by-side event in a Polaris Ranger RZR. Eichner captured the lead on the first lap as he and Heidler were the only pair to take on the large log jump in the motocross section of the course. Eichner held a commanding lead and then made a sudden stop to allow a safety inspection of his Heidler’s racing harness. Back under way, Eichner regained the lead and finished the race with a sizable lead and impressive first place finish. Eichner continues to lead this event in the overall point standings.

Yamaha Motor Corp., USA of Cypress, Calif. is sponsoring the 2008 National Hunting and Fishing Day (NHFD).

As part of the partnership, Yamaha is donating an all-new 2009 Grizzly 550 FI ATV to the NHFD sweepstakes. The sweepstakes is being promoted at NHFD events nationwide, and anyone can register online through the end of October.

“As a strong supporter of hunting, fishing and conservation in the outdoors, Yamaha is proud to be a sponsor of National Hunting and Fishing Day,” says Steve Nessl, marketing manager for Yamaha’s ATV/SxS group. “We believe NHFD stands for the same strong values of outdoor conservation and ethical hunting and fishing that Yamaha supports, and we are excited to be a part of delivering that message on such a grand scale.”

Arctic Cat Inc. of Thief River Falls, Minn. has named Claude J. Jordan as president and chief operating officer, effective immediately. Jordan reports to Arctic Cat’s chairman and chief executive officer Christopher Twomey.

“Claude has a proven track record of success in executive leadership positions,” says Twomey. “His extensive background in growing global businesses, organically and through mergers and acquisitions, will be strong assets to Arctic Cat and our shareholders. We are pleased to welcome him aboard.”

The 52-year-old Jordan has more than 20 years of experience in senior executive positions, most recently with The Home Depot and General Electric.

“I am excited to be joining the Arctic Cat leadership team,” says Jordan. “This is a great opportunity to work with a business that has a long history of success, a strong brand, highly innovative products and an outstanding organization. I look forward to working with the Arctic Cat team to build on the company’s strengths and achieve continued success.”

Jordan served as vice president of The Home Depot and president of its THD At-Home Service business from 2003 until 2008. During that period, THD At-Home Services’ sales grew more than 300 percent.

Before joining The Home Depot, Jordan was with General Electric Company from 1998 to 2003. During his last four years with General Electric, he served as president and CEO of GE Water Technologies, a worldwide water treatment manufacturing, sales and services business, based outside of Toronto, Canada.

Twenty of the top ATV riders in North America are set to compete in the Second Annual Steel City AMA Pro ATV Open in Delmont, Pa. August 30.

The invitational event is scheduled as part of the Saturday show at Steel City Raceway as part of the AMA Toyota National Motocross Championship weekend. Amateur ATV racing is scheduled for Sunday, Aug. 31.

The National Motocross Championship will take to the track for its finals on Saturday at 12:30 p.m. with opening ceremonies, followed by motorcycle racing in the Motocross Lites, Women’s Motocross, and Motocross classes. The ATV Open is scheduled for 5:20 p.m.

Disney Interactive Studios has announced that a demo version of its off-road ATV racing game, Pure, will be available the week of August 18.

This pre-order demo disc will be available at several major retailers in the United States and Canada, including Best Buy and Blockbuster. The Pure demo will also be available for download on Xbox Live and the PlayStation Store.

The demo will reportedly include a tutorial mode and a single racetrack set in Italy.

“PURE is an action sports game like no other that lets you soar off huge peaks and see for miles in the distance while you pull adrenaline-inducing tricks,” says Jason Avent, game director at Black Rock Studio.” The demo will give fans a limited but intense sample of the gameplay and provide practice for when the game is released in late September.”

New Hampshire native Luke Marois put on a show in his home state, sweeping the Pro class finals in Round 7 of the 2008 Can-Am Rock Maple Racing Series at the New England Dragway in Epping, NH on Aug. 9.

This was the second home-state sweep in three events for Marois, as the 19-year-old also prevailed in Round 5 at the River’s Edge ATV Park in Canaan, NH. Marois held off rival Brian Daigle and Mike Taylor for top honors in Pro Am Unlimited and completed the sweep with a convincing win in Pro Unlimited.

Taylor found redemption in the A Unlimited final, besting Aaron Blouin and Steffan Dager for top honors. Brad Burbine powered his Honda to victory in the B Unlimited class, with Michael Gustus second on a Yamaha. Justin Chamberland claimed the Open Amateur final over Charles Sawyer and Dale Robinson.

Robinson picked up a victory of his own in an exciting Production Lites final. Honda machines swept the podium as Curtis Gillilan and Chamberland finished second and third. Andrew Ruel posted his sixth win of the season in C Unlimited action. The 14-year-old Ruel held off Glynn Desilva and Josh Bennett.

Polaris is sending four teams to compete in the historic 12-Hours of Pont de Vaux World Championship, which is scheduled for August 24-24 in Lyon, France.

One team from the United States and three French teams will represent Polaris at the event, all racing on the Outlaw 525 S.

Doug Eichner, multi-time world and national ATV champion and record holder of seven wins and ten podium finishes at the12-Hours of Pont de Vaux, will anchor Team Polaris USA. The team will also feature Polaris rider Dana Creech, known for his Division 4 Freestyle Championship and Clear Channel Stadium Series MX Championship. GNC MX Pro National Champion, eight-time GNC Pro-Am National Champion, former Pont De Vaux top-three winner and former Eichner teammate Travis Spader.

Factory Yamaha/Golden West Cycle rider Thomas Brown won both motos on Aug. 9 to win the overall Pro Am Production victory at ATV Dirt Days in Hurricane Mills, Tenn.

“The track got pretty rough and technical,” says Brown of the challenging course at the Loretta Lynn Ranch. “I gained time on guys through the timing sections and it helped me pull ahead for the win. I think the track today definitely played into my riding style.”

The event was the final round of the 10-round ITP/Moose Racing AMA/ATVA National MX Championship and Brown clinched the Pro Am Production championship with the victory.

Brown won the first and last rounds of the 10-round series, but it was his consistency throughout the 10-race Amateur Championship that put him ahead of Nick DeNoble by 32 points for the class championship. Brown finished on the podium seven times, including the final five races.

Joe Byrd clinched the $5,000 ITP Tires Grand Slam Championship presented by QUAD Magazine on August 11 at Loretta Lynn Ranch.

The championship within a championship is part of the ITP Tires/Moose Racing AMA/ATVA National Championship presented by Parts Unlimited.

Byrd, American Honda/Joe Byrd Riding School, won two out of the four races in the special championship. He earned $1,000 for each victory, as well an extra $1,000 and a gold medal for the overall title. Team MSR/Suzuki/Yoshimura/Pro Taper’s Dustin Wimmer finished second in the chase, earning a silver medal, while the bronze medal went to Jeremy Lawson of Team Epic Can-Am.

“That was a really cool thing for the series to do,” says Byrd of the special program, which was unveiled earlier this year and featured special awards in every racing class. “Having a series within a series gave us all something extra to try to win and it feels good to be the first person to win it. It’s awesome.”

Wimmer and teammate Chad Wienen each won a single race, earning $1,000 each.

ITP Grand Slam – Final Standings:

Related Reading:
Wienen wins AMA season finale

Though much of the 2008 season has been filled with injuries, bad luck and disappointment for Chad Wienen, he certainly finished on a high note.

The Rockstar/ MSR/Suzuki/Yoshimura/Pro Taper rider captured the overall Pro ATV victory at Loretta Lynn Ranch in Hurricane Mills, Tenn. in the season finale for the ITP Tires/Moose Racing AMA/ATVA National Championship presented by Parts Unlimited on August 11.

“I’ve really been working hard to get back to winning speed,” says Wienen who fought multiple injuries this season. “I was just concentrating on the overall win out there. I’m the defending race winner here, so I was looking forward to the race. It feels great to get the monkey off my back and win again. I’d really like to thank my team for giving me such a great quad, because it was the reason I was able to win.”

Polaris Dealers recently got a look at the brand new 2009 Sportsman 850 XP in Las Vegas, Nev. Shortly afterwards, Daryl Rath put it to the test at a cross country track in Iowa.

Rath competed in a two-hour cross country endurance race in the Iowa ATV Hare Scramble Series in Decatur City on Aug. 3.

With an impressive first showing, Rath placed second in the Pro Utility Class on a nearly stock machine.

“It was important for me to keep the ATV as stock as possible,” says Rath. “I knew this was a contender right off the showroom floor and I wanted to prove that.

Polaris Industries Inc. has announced its limited edition ATV offerings for 2009.

ATV enthusiasts will be able to get the new Sportsman XP in two limited edition packages – the Sportsman 850 XP LE, Nuclear Sunset and the Sportsman XP LE-Browning.

The new Sportsman XPs feature an 850cc engine that churns out a claimed 70 horsepower or a 550cc engine delivering a claimed 40 horsepower. The units feature an upgraded Dual A-Arm front suspension, Rolled IRS, improved clutching, and an updated look that includes new ergonomics and wheels.

2009 Sportsman 850 XP LE, Nuclear Sunset

Congress has approved a provision that requires all companies that sell or import ATVs in the U.S. to meet the same safety standards that American-based manufacturers follow.

The provision was included with the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008 which was passed by the House of Representatives June 30. The provision was first introduced Nov. 18 by Senator Norm Coleman (R-MN) and co-sponsored by Senators Mark Dayton (D-MN) and Mike DeWine (R-OH).

The major U.S. manufacturers have followed voluntary safety standards established by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) which set speed restrictions on youth ATVs as well as appropriate configuration and performance aspects of ATVs. The domestic manufacturers also support training programs and promote the use of helmets and other protective gear.

Polaris Industries Inc. of Medina, Minn. has named Scott W. Wine chief executive officer, effective September 1, 2008. Wine will succeed outgoing CEO Thomas C. Tiller, who will continue to serve as a member of the company’s board of directors.

Wine joins Polaris from UTC Fire and Security, a unit of Hartford, Conn., based United Technologies Corporation, where he served as president, Fire Safety Americas. He also held senior leadership positions at Danaher Corp., Honeywell International and served as an officer in the United States Navy.

Wine’s selection comes at the end of an extensive search process conducted by the Polaris board of directors, led by Chairman Greg Palen.

“As a proven leader with considerable experience across a variety of industries and three outstanding international companies, Scott has an impressive track record of producing outstanding results,” says Palen. “We’re confident that Scott, together with our strong management team, will continue Polaris’ remarkable history of innovation, leadership and results benefiting all of our stakeholders.”

Dustin Wimmer clinched his first AMA Championship after finishing fourth in the first of two motos in Round 10 of the 2008 Moose Racing/ITP Tires AMA/ATV National Championship at Red Bud Raceway in Buchanon, Mich. July 27.

“My Suzuki team members deserve most of the credit,” says Wimmer. “My bike has been just perfect all year, and that’s how you win championships.”

Wimmer entered the weekend needing at least a fourth-place finish in the first moto to clinch the championship. Not needing to go for the win, Wimmer rode a conservative race to finish in fourth.

Polaris Industries Inc. of Medina, Minn. is the first of the major manufactures to introduce a youth-oriented side-by-side.

The new youth Ranger RZR 170 is designed for young riders 12 and up. It features a 4-stroke, air-cooled, 169cc engine with electric start and an automatic transmission. Styled similar to the adult RZR, this side-by-side has a sporty, aggressive look and holds a driver and passenger.

Included in the youth Ranger RZR 170 are all the safety features found on Polaris’ youth ATVs. It comes equipped with removable ignition key, electronic throttle safety control, daytime running lights, side nets, full cab frame, three-point seat belts, color coded foot controls, parking brake, hydraulic disc brakes and speed controls to enable adults to set a maximum speed limit.

Jeremie Warnia, a Suzuki Pro ATV racer from France, made the trip across the pond for the fifth round of the ITP QuadCross Series at Glen Helen Raceway in San Bernardino, Calif.

It was Warnia’s first time at Glen Helen and it proved to be a successful visit. He had a 2-1 victory, which was enough to clinch the overall from Polaris rider Doug Eichner.

Warnia won the race on a nearly stock Suzuki QuadRacer R450, while much of the field were running highly modified quads. Warnia’s vehicle had only minor aftermarket modifications, including Yoshimura exhaust, Fox shocks and JB A-Arms.

After dominating the field for much of the year, Dustin Wimmer can lock up the 2008 AMA National Championship this weekend at the Redbud National in Buchanan, Mich.

The Team MSR/Suzuki/Yoshimura/Pro Taper rider has five wins and three additional podiums in nine races so far this year and needs only to finish second or better in the first of two Pro Motos to clinch the title and earn the AMA No. 1 number plate.

Team Suzuki, as well, may clinch the Manufacturers’ Cup. Suzuki quads have won seven of the 10 races this season.

This weekend’s event is the third base of the $5,000 ITP Tires Grand Slam Presented by QUAD Magazine. The championship within a championship, being held at four of this year’s Showcase Events, offers monetary awards in the Pro Class, as well as special bronze, silver and gold medals in the Amateur Classes.

Jesse and Josh West took center stage as the brothers finished 1-2 at the Quad Terrain opener at the Sandbox Arena in New Richmond, Wis. on July 19. Both brothers were riding the new 2009 Arctic Cat 700 H1 4×4 ATVs.

Josh West qualified first for the 14-lap final after winning both heats with Jesse qualifying second. The final turned into a brother battle as Josh led the way early on, but Jesse wasn’t far behind battling through traffic. Eventually Jesse passed Josh and checked-out until the checkered flag waved for a first place finish, while Josh held off the competition for second.

“The new 2009 Arctic Cat ATVs are tough, and Jesse’s riding abilities make us even tougher to beat when it comes to Quad Terrain racing outdoors or indoors,” says Ted Bettin, Arctic Cat race manager.

The BlueRibbon Coalition (BRC), a national trail recreation group, is urging the Smokey Bear program to revise its current ATV fire prevention campaign.

According to BRC, the ad material posted at http://www.smokeybear.com/ implied that the proper way for motorized recreationists to prevent wildfires is for them to load up their vehicles and go home. The public service announcement, says BRC, is sending the wrong message to riders operating their ATVs in a legal manner with functioning USDA Forest Service approved spark arrestors.

“As an advocate for the use of legal exhaust systems on public and private lands, I found the current Smokey Bear ATV wildfire PSA to be offensive, unethical, and unprofessional,” says BRC spokesperson Don Amador. “The ad should have been focused on encouraging enthusiasts to use legal spark arrestors on their OHVs and stay on designated routes.

Yamaha Motor Corp., USA of Cypress, Calif. handed out more than $200,000 in the second round of its OHV Access Initiative GRANTs.

Yamaha says this money provides funding to projects supporting safe, responsible riding and sustainable, open riding areas across the country.

“Interest in the Yamaha OHV Access Initiative continues to grow as more organizations learn about this relatively new program,” says Mike Martinez, Yamaha’s general manager of ATV and side-by-side operations. “Yamaha dealers are embracing the program and actively assisting their local public land agencies, OHV clubs and associations in a combined effort to supply and support a safe and responsible off-road environment.”

Mariaville, NY is set to host the Trail Riders Expo 2008, which runs from Aug. 22 to 24.

Though the event promises to be a lot of fun, organizers feel there is a more crucial need for it to be a success. Presented by the New York State Powersport Dealers Association, the Trail Riders Expo gives organizers a chance to meet up with some of the many thousands of ATV, off-highway motorcyclists and 4WD enthusiasts in the Empire State.

The goal of the event is to open more trails and places to ride in New York.

“The New York State Powersport Dealers Association is dedicated to opening new OHV trails throughout the state and we need to get more folks involved in the process,” says Bob Ski who is the director of the organization. “Sure we want everyone to have a good time at what we hope will be an annual event, but from my perspective the contacts we can make with enthusiasts who may not yet be involved in a club or association will be very valuable to us.”

Kymco USA has announced an agreement with Kolpin Powersports that will expand the accessories options available for Kymco ATVs and UTVs.

According to Kymco, this agreement will give Kymco dealers the ability to sell Kolpin’s line of accessories. It also calls for the two companies to develop a line of co-branded items exclusive to Kymco.

Kymco says the program will be rolled out in three phases over the next 12-18 months. Initially Kymco will distribute the full line of Kolpin ATV/UTV accessories through its dealer network. In phase two Kolpin will develop specialized packages specific to Kymco models, specifically the new MXU 375 4×4 and UXV 500 side-by-side vehicles. Kymco and Kolpin will then go on to jointly develop proprietary accessories which will be co-branded by the two companies.

Veteran ATV racer Luke Marios put on a clinic in his home state of New Hampshire, winning both Pro division finals during Round 5 of the 2008 Can-Am Rock Maple Racing series at River’s Edge ATV Park in Canaan, NH on July 13.

Marios powered his Suzuki to victory in both the Pro Unlimited and Pro Am classes, finding the quick lines around the challenging track. Brian Daigle finished second in the Pro Am final with a strong run on his Kawasaki.

Steffan Dager added two more victories to his impressive 2008 campaign on Sunday, claiming both the A Unlimited and Plus 25 finals. Andrew Ruel earned his fifth win of the season in a hotly-contested C Unlimited final. Ruel held off David Livingston and Glynn Desilva for top honors.

Justin Chamberland also notched a pair of wins at Canaan. He out-gunned Dale Robinson and Adam Wyman to claim the Open Amateur class and held off Robinson and Curtis Gillilan to win the Production Lites final. Livingston found redemption in the 16-24 year-old class, beating Bruce Gaspardi to the line for top honors.

Polaris Industries Inc. of Median, Minn. reported record sales for the second quarter of 2008, including an impressive increase Ranger sales.

Polaris sales for the second quarter of 2008 totaled $455.7 million, an increase of 21% over last year’s second quarter sales of $376.9 million.

“Our operating results this quarter are very strong especially given the very challenging macroeconomic environment,” says Tom Tiller, chief executive officer of Polaris Industries Inc. “Sales for the full year 2008 are now expected to grow in the range of nine to eleven percent over full year 2007 sales of $1.78 billion.”

Much of Polaris’ growth has been attributed to the performance of its side-by-side vehicles, international operations and parts, garments and accessories businesses. Second quarter ATV sales, which includes side-by-side vehicles, jumped 24% to $350.3 million compared to $282.1 million over the same period in 2007.

American Suzuki Motor Corporation is reorganizing its independent business units into a single entity.

The Japanese company announced July 14 that it will consolidate its automotive, motorcycle/ATV and marine units as well as its corporate operations in a move to optimize its operations in the United States. American Suzuki says the changes are all internal and will not affect individual dealers that supported the separate divisions.

Kinji Saito has been appointed president of the newly consolidated company and will oversee the operations, sales and marketing of American Suzuki.

“American Suzuki believes it is very important to make changes and respond to the evolving needs of American consumers,” says Saito. “It is ideal for all of our divisions to work more closely together, plan together and communicate as a single company, rather than as separate business units.”

Doug Gust made sure the American Suzuki Summer National had a Suzuki quad on top of the podium on July 13 at Pleasure Valley Raceway in Johnstown, Pa.

The veteran rider was fast and consistent as he topped the field in ninth round of the ITP Tires/Moose Racing AMA ATVA Pro Motocross Championship. Gust, who earned his second victory of the year, finished ahead of Monster Energy Kawasaki’s Josh Creamer and Team MSR/Suzuki/Yoshimura/Pro Taper teammate Dustin Wimmer.

“These wins feel better than any I’ve had in my career because of how tight the competition is,” says Gust. “Look at the lap sheets. We are all within a second or so of each other, so to be able to win against a field like we have feels incredible.”

Despite two Suzuki riders on the podium, it was a great day of racing for factory Kawasaki. Creamer grabbed the holeshot in the first moto and led the pack to the green flag. Also gating well were Gust and Wimmer, with Can-Am’s John Natalie Jr. and Team Epic Racing/Can-Am’s Greg Gee rounding out the top five at the conclusion of the first lap. Creamer set a lightning quick pace and pulled out to a two-second lead by the halfway point.

After sweeping the morning 4×4 classes at the Mountain Ridge GNCC on July 5 in Somerset, Pa., Can-Am Outlander ATVs wrapped up two GNCC championships and have another within grasp.

Team Warnert Racing/Can-Am’s Clifton Beasley won his ninth race in a row on his Outlander 500 ATV and remained unbeaten in the class to secure the 4×4 Lites championship.

“Today was a big day,” says Beasley. “I may have the championship wrapped up, but I’d still like to go out there and win all the races.”

In the same race session, Can-Am X-Team racer Bryan Buckhannon also continued his perfect record by winning the 4×4 Open class on his Outlander 800 and also wrapped up a class championship. Buckhannon finished in front of Team Warnert/Can-Am Outlander 800 racer Scott Kilby.

The Yamaha/ITP QuadCross Championship Series kicked off two new 250cc classes on June 21, at the Speedworld MX Park in Surprise, Ariz. Series champions of both the new 250cc Production Air-Cooled Limited and new 250cc Production Air-Cooled Modified Pro-Am classes will win a new Yamaha Raptor 250 ATV.

Yamaha released the Raptor 250 sport quad last fall and the new QuadCross classes, according to Yamaha, are a result of the renewed excitement surrounding 250cc machines and the new Raptor.

“Yamaha is excited to see the new 250cc classes in the QuadCross series and we fully expect a Raptor 250 to win every race,” says Steve Nessl, marketing manager for Yamaha’s ATV/SxS group. “The Raptor 250 is the only machine in its class built from the ground up to be a true sport machine. No other stock machine with a 250cc engine compares.”

Yamaha and ITP are title sponsors of the nine-race series that runs through Nov. 30. In addition to providing the two Raptor 250 machines as championship prizes, Yamaha will also cover the entry fees for the top five pro and top three expert riders on Raptor 250 ATVs in the Pro-Am class.

William Yokley and co-pilot, Mark Notman rode their Polaris Ranger RZR to victory in a Can-Am GNCC Series UTV race in Somerset, Pa. on July 5.

The UTV race was run immediately after the two-hour Pro ATV race that both Yokley and Notman competed in.

Despite having to run back-to-back races, Yokley and his Army National Guard teammate got off to a quick start and led the 42-vehicle field for the first four laps of the ten-lap race.

Yokley says he and Notman got into some trouble when they came upon a lapper and he took what he calls a ‘questionable line’ through some trees to get around.

“We nailed some trees that threw us on our side,” says Yokley. “I had the RZR pinned in forward and reverse, and we finally got back on four wheels and under way.”

William Yokley finished 13th overall after experiencing suspension problems in the rock infested mountains of Pennsylvania on Saturday, July 5.

Yokley’s Race Summary:

We arrived in the scenic Pennsylvania mountains on Friday after a nine-hour trip. It had been raining all day and looked like it may be pretty messy for the race. This was going to be a busy weekend with the Pro ATV race and the UTV race running back-to-back on Saturday, but I was pumped and feeling well prepared. Mark Notman and his family had a shorter trip since he lives a couple of hours from here, and is sort of used to this type of terrain. This track is in the high country with lots of varied track conditions – tight rocky sections, lots of elevation changes, and some high speed open areas. The rock garden sections can be pretty brutal, but at least there will be no dust!

The rain ended on Saturday morning and the temp was in the low 70’s, so the conditions were looking ideal. It was good seeing my friend Mike Cafro from California; he was here taking a break from the desert racing scene to try to dodge some trees. Mike and I were teammates and competed in several Baja 1000s in Mexico. The Pennsylvania National Guard set up their recruiting display featuring their Mobile Recruiting motor coach and a Humvee. We headed over to the starting area to have some fun for the next couple of hours.

The flag dropped and my National Guard Honda fired immediately, and I arrived in the woods in 4th place. The first lap went very well, I moved into 2nd right behind Bill Ballance as we headed into Lap 2. I began to have some serious problems with my suspension, causing me to bounce all over everywhere and not able to maintain a competitive pace. I also got some arm pump trying to hold on so tight so I wouldn’t get bucked off the bike. I went from a strong 2nd to a fading 12th on Lap 2. I stopped at my pit area to refuel and see if there was anything I could do about the shocks; I jumped off the bike and tried adjusting the external settings, all while losing more time. Lap 3 and 4 were not much better as I tried to salvage a decent finish; I ended up 13th overall which was a disappointment. But hey, we all have those types of days occasionally and you just have to do your best and accept the results.

My National Guard teammate Mark Notman had a great race, finishing 2nd in the very competitive Pro Am Class. This is his 3rd podium finish of the year. His Honda fired quickly and was 3rd in the first corner, and made a pass for 2nd in the first 2 miles. Mark stayed in sight of the leader throughout Lap 1, and on Lap 2, there was a five-way battle for the lead. They swapped positions constantly, but he was able to take the lead as they headed into Lap 3. Mark stopped for fuel and fresh goggles, and found himself in 3rd. He passed the current points leader Don Ockerman for 2nd and charged hard for the leader. The leader’s bike quit as they were in a nasty rock section, and Mark was back in the lead. Ockerman got around him and on Lap 4 and while passing lappers, was able to get away from him a bit. He finished in 2nd, and sits 3rd in points heading into the summer break.

So, I’m proud of Mark and his finish, but for me, it was not the result I was hoping for. I am currently 6th in National points in the Pro Class as the GNCC Series takes their summer break. Our next GNCC Event is at the Snowshoe West Virginia Ski Resort on September 13. This is a really cool location where you get to run right through the town on pavement and also up and down the ski slopes and adjoining woods.

Yokley Racing Team Sponsors are: The Army National Guard, Rocky Mountain ATV, Polaris Industries, ITP Tires, Elka Suspension, Roll Design, HMF Exhaust Systems, IMS/Roll, Tire Balls, Andrews Cycle, Douglas Wheel Technology, Baldwin Motorsports, CGR, O’Neal Clothing, Panolin Lubricants, IMS, Hinson, 317 Graphics, Intense Fabrication & Design, Tsubaki Chains, Hardkor, Shoei Helmets, Axcalibar Axles, Streamline, Powermadd, KG Clutch Factory, Moto Pro Training and ATVRiders.com.

Related Reading:
Borich picks up second win of season
Yokley and Notman win GNCC UTV race

Suzuki’s Chris Borich picked up his second win of the season with a come-from-behind victory in Round 9 of the Can-Am GNCC Series in Somerset, Pa. on July 6.

After a mid-pack start, Borich started his move through the field of pro racers. He was in seventh place after the first lap worked his way into the lead one lap later – a lead he would never relinquish.

“The race went pretty good,” says Borich. “We had a mid-pack start but got to the lead on the second lap and just held onto it from there.”

The win is the first for Borich since he took top spot four months ago in the first GNCC race of the season. The win moves him up to fifth in the standings with 158 points. He is now 33 points behind Yamaha’s Bill Ballance and just two points out of second place.

With just three rounds left on the 2008 Tires/Moose Racing AMA/ATVA National Motocross Championship Presented by Parts Unlimited, Dustin Wimmer and the rest of the pros are headed to Pleasure Valley Raceway in Johnstown, Pa. for the American Suzuki Summer National July 12-13.

This event represents Round 9 of the National Pro Racing tour and Round 8 of the Amateur tour.

This weekend’s event is being sponsored by American Suzuki and will also host a PAMX American Suzuki ATV Regional Championship event. The race will be telecast on Versus Network on Oct. 13 at 3:30 p.m.

Wimmer, the Team MSR/Suzuki/Yoshimura/Pro Taper rider, seems poised to continue his dominant run toward the Championship. Wimmer hails from Pennsylvania and is hoping his home state advantage will pay off as he attempts to add to his tally of five victories and two additional podium finishes this season.

Suzuki formally introduced the 2009 QuadSport LT-Z400 at a media event held at the Vessels Stallion Farm in Bonsall, Calif. on June 25.

Since its inception in 2002, the QuadSport Z400 has had an impressive racing heritage as well as being a versatile all-around sport ATV. Suzuki says the design concept for the Z400 was “Engineered for Fun”.

As we mentioned in our 2009 Suzuki QuadSport Z400 Preview article, much of the 2009 Z400 was based on the QuadRacer R-450, including the addition of fuel injection. Suzuki says electronic fuel injection gives the Z400 a noticeably smoother and quicker throttle response, improved starting and performance in a variety of conditions, and improved fuel efficiency.

“Suzuki is definitely the leader with fuel injection in its products,” says American Suzuki Motor Corporation vice president Mel Harris.

The team of Mark Lindsay, Phil Holdsworth and Michael King won the UTV class of the Baja 500 on June 1, a 500-mile race that begins and ends in Ensenada, Mexico.

Their modified Polaris Ranger RZR is the first side-by-side to ever finish the historic race. After being the last vehicle to start, Lindsay’s team raced the sole Ranger RZR entry in the field to the finish line in 19 hours, 49 minutes and 30 seconds.

Thirty-three miles into the race, the challenge of a loose, rocky incline brought the vehicles in front of Lindsay to a stand-still. When it was finally his turn, he blew through the obstacle with ease.

“Being the first side-by-side to finish and win the Baja 500 UTV Class is a true testament to the quality and ability of the Ranger RZR,” says Craig Scanlon, product line sales manager for the Polaris Side x Side division. “We congratulate Mark Lindsay and his team for continuing to show the Ranger RZR can dominate even in the most extreme conditions.”

Youth ATVs from Arctic Cat, Kawasaki and KYMCO have all been recalled by the US Consumer Product and Safety Commission (CPSC).

All of the recalled vehicles were manufactured in Taiwan and all of the recalls were voluntary. Approximately 13,700 vehicles have been recalled, but no incidents or injuries have been reported.

For Arctic Cat, the speed controller on the sporty 2008 DVX 50 and DVX 90 and utility 2008 50 and 90 could fail to be at idle on start up, which could result in loss of vehicle control.

About 6,000 units are affected by the recall. These ATVs were sold by Arctic Cat dealers between July 2007 and June 2008 for between $1,800 and $2,400.

The Massachusetts Senate has voted to expand regulations for operators of ATVs in the state.

This bill, which will soon go to the House of Representatives, would require all ATVs and snowmobiles to be registered by September 1, 2008. The bill will also see strict age requirements enforced.

“It is our obligation to make sure that unlawful use of snowmobiles and recreation vehicles is not a threat to public safety,” Massachusetts Senate president Therese Murray told Wicked Local. “This bill will lessen unlawful ATV practices that harm our children and unnecessarily damage our environment.”

Four children under the age of 16 have been admitted to Massachusetts hospitals in the past two weeks due to ATV accidents.

An Off-Highway Vehicle Working Group was created by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation 2007. This group’s goal is to find solutions to address illegal and unsafe use of ATVs and other recreational vehicles. According to Wicked Local, a good portion of this bill stems from their work.

This bill would require owners of ATVs who allow children under the age of 18 to use their vehicle to be held accountable for any damage or injuries.

Use of ATVs is banned by anyone under the age of 14 and limits the engine size of ATVs for children between the ages of 14 and 16.

Owners of ATVs under the age of 18 must successfully complete a recreation vehicle safety and responsibility course before operating their vehicle.

New categories of violations will be created and penalties for existing violations will be strengthened.

Helmets will be required for all operators of an ATV.

Veteran ATV racers Brian Daigle and Jason Rayder earned Pro division wins on Sunday afternoon, as Rock Maple Racing (RMR) completed Round 4 of the 10-race 2008 Can-Am Series schedule at Thornwood MX in Williamstown, NY.

Daigle powered his Kawasaki to victory in the Pro Unlimited final, while Rayderheld off Freddy Kiefer and Brandon Miller to claim the Pro Am final. All classes completed their final rounds right before a line of severe thunderstorms rolled through the area, making visibility extremely limited.

Steffan Dager powered his Honda to a win in A Unlimited action, while Brad Burbine held off Mike Mealus for top honors in the B Unlimited class. George Layton continued his 2008 hot streak in the Plus 35 class, out-gunning John Lewis for the win. Andrew Ruel led a full field of machines in the C Unlimited final, holding off Josh Gola and David Dillabough to post his third win of 2008. James Farney and Josh Bennett completed the top five in this talent-filled class.

Dale Robinson was the man to beat in Production Lites on Sunday, as he drove away from Curtis Gillian and Dylan Whitmore to notch the win. Robinson earned his second win of the day in a thrilling Open Amateur final, out-dueling Ryan Rhoades and Gillian for top honors. Chad Underwood came out on top of a hotly-contested Plus 25 final, with Daeger settling for second and Kevin Watrobski third.

Jordan Storrs is becoming a successful young racer on the Can-Am Series, as he claimed two more victories Sunday at Thornwood. He held off Dakota Bechlet and Zach Potter to claim the 0-90cc Limited final, then added a win in 0-70cc Unlimited action to complete the day.

Other winners in MX classes on Sunday include Cody Lyndaker (0-90cc Unlimited); Derrik Mann (0-90cc Modified); Cole Lyndaker (0-70cc Modified); and Richard Murtaugh (0-50cc Junior & 0-50cc Senior). Congratulations to all of our final round winners on another great day of ATV racing in central New York.

In QuadTerrain action Sunday, Jamie Bougher rode his Can-Am machine to victory in a thrilling Open class final. Alex Layn finished second, while Paul Calderwood was third. Action in the QuadTerrain Challenge is always exciting as these 4×4 machines tackle a host of obstacles.

Round 5 on the 10-race series is set for Sunday, July 13, at the River’s Edge Campground and ATV Park on Rte. 118 in Canaan, NH.

William Yokley finished seventh overall in hot, humid and dusty conditions in Round 8 of the Can-Am GNCC Series on June 22 in Yadkinville, NC.

Yokley’s Race Summary:

This is the time of the season when it’s usually hot and dry, and your conditioning is tested. Yadkinville is a beautiful area of North Carolina with many wineries and lots of ATV enthusiasts. This year, hot, humid weather and lots of red clay dust greeted us as we set up on Friday. It looked like it was going to rain Sat. morning, which we really needed, but it never came and just got hotter. Using your head and staying on 4 wheels would be important today, as well as a good start. I hydrated myself well on Friday and Saturday, did my pre-race warm up and stretching, and headed to the start area.

I got a pretty decent start and as everyone piled into the first turn, the typical chaos began. I was sandwiched in between Matt Smiley and Chris Borich coming into the turn when I tried to make the hole bigger and squeeze through. I caused a big mess when my rear tire jumped Borich’s front tire and launched my rear end straight up into the air. I just hung on tight and was able to set it down and throw it into the turn without crashing. Borich wasn’t as lucky as he tumbled hard. I went into the woods in 8th and worked my way to 7th going into lap 2. Just when I thought this would be a decent day, my bike started running really badly; I thought it was a little rich and just needed cleaning out, but as I went down each straight it got worse instead of better. Did I mention the dust was bad?

Without being able to open it up and cleanly run out of corners and open areas, it made it kind of rough for the rest of the day. I ran in 6th for most of the day behind McGill, but in the open areas, it just would miss and sputter, and I would get caught in the dust and loose more time. Borich caught me on the last lap; I was trying to hold him off, but I hit a stump with my rear tire shooting me into a tree where I got stuck. I limped to the finish in 7th Overall with my air filters plugged up. I hate something like that holding me back during the race, but it could always be worse. I’m just glad that race is over, it was getting old eating all that dust!

My teammate Mark had a good day after overcoming some adversity. He got a good start going into the woods in 5th. The heavy dust made it difficult to see most of the time; he overshot a turn and hit a small creek at a bad angle resulting in smashing his knee into the handlebars. It took awhile for the pain to subside and get in a rhythm, but after a few miles he caught back up to the lead pack. Toward the end of lap 1, his seat somehow popped off and he had to stop to retrieve and reinstall it, costing him several positions. Mark put his head down and rode mistake free working his way to 5th right behind 4th going into the last lap. His knee was really bothering him at this point, and he made the decision to not attempt the big creek jump, costing him a couple of positions. He ended the day in 7th XC2 Pro AM and 21st Overall, and sits in 4th place in the season points.

I plan to keep training and preparing for the rocky conditions we will face in 2 weeks in PA. I will also be racing the Polaris RZR there in the UTV Race, and hopefully I’ll get back on the box! See you there.

Yokley Racing Team Sponsors are: The Army National Guard, Rocky Mountain ATV, Polaris Industries, ITP Tires, Elka Suspension, Roll Design, HMF Exhaust Systems, IMS/Roll, Tire Balls, Andrews Cycle, Douglas Wheel Technology, Baldwin Motorsports, CGR, O’Neal Clothing, Panolin Lubricants, IMS, Hinson, 317 Graphics, Intense Fabrication & Design, Tsubaki Chains, Hardkor, Shoei Helmets, Axcalibar Axles, Streamline, Powermadd, KG Clutch Factory, Moto Pro Training and ATVRiders.com.

Dustin Wimmer dominated both motos as he picked up his second straight victory in Round 8 of the ITP Tires/Moose Racing AMA ATVA Pro Motocross Championship on June 21.

“I knew it was going to be important to get good starts today, so I was happy to gate in the top three in both motos,” says Wimmer. “The track was in good condition, but was tight, making it a little difficult to pass. I made almost all of my passes in the same corner then just tried to ride well.”

The Team MSR/Suzuki/Yoshimura, Pro Taper Suzuki rider finished ahead of Joe Byrd and Harold Goodman, both of American Honda. Goodman’s third place finish was his first on the podium this year.

Wimmer’s Suzuki teammates Doug Gust and Chad Wienen finished fourth and fifth.

Bryan Cook didn’t let his home state fans down when he grabbed the win at the Elka Yadkin Valley Stomp GNCC in Yadkinville, NC on June 21.

The privateer Team Excell Motorsports Honda rider been running strong all year, but this was the first time he was able to pick up a victory, outlasting Yamaha’s Bill Ballance and ATVRiders.com’s Jarrod McClure.

“Man it feels so good,” says Cook. “I heard the fans cheering all day, every time you came around a corner there were people cheering.

“You know, it gives you some motivation over the winter when everyone is talking about everyone else, and they’re not talking about you. I wanted to get back up there and get my name back out there. Today I had a good start, and then Branden (Sommers), something must have happened and his engine just quit. I got lucky and I was able to get around. After that, I just kept my head down. I got a little fatigued but not too bad, and I held on.”

Muddy Creek Raceway has recently undergone several major improvements for the upcoming Oakley ATV Summer National – Round 9 of the 2008 ITP Tires/Moose Racing AMA/ATVA National Motocross Championship.

Included on the list of improvements for the Blountville, Tenn. track is an expanded level parking area, a new road leading to the parking area, and expanded vendor and pit parking.

“We’ve had a lot of feedback from our riders, our teams, and our sponsors concerning Muddy Creek and I want to ensure you that we listened,” says ATVA Promoters Group director Sam Gammon. “We have spent the last month moving tons of dirt and gravel, and grading our parking areas in preparation for this weekend’s race. We think these additions will only add to an already world-class facility.”

The Oakley ATV Summer Nationals kicks off on Friday, June 20 at the 1.1-mile track with an open practice session. Pro qualifying is scheduled for Saturday with Pro finals scheduled for Sunday. The weekend also features a full schedule of Pro-Am, Amateur, Women’s, and Youth racing.

Suzuki’s Dustin Wimmer currently holds a commanding lead in the Pro standings with 279 points, 61 ahead of Honda’s Joe Byrd. Wimmer’s Suzuki teammate Doug Gust is 82 points back in third.

Wimmer has four wins so far this season, including the most recent event in New Berlin, NY on June 8. After a slow start to the season, Byrd has come on strong in recent weeks to climb up the standings and has won two of the last four events. Gust is the only other rider with a Pro win this season.

Championship Points Leaders:

Related Reading:
Wimmer claims fourth victory of season

Wayne Matlock, Mark Spaeth and Wes Miller rode the new Honda TRX700XX to a very exciting victory in the Baja 500 on June 1, a 500-mile race that begins and ends in Ensenada, Mexico.

Matlock and his team completed the race in 10 hours, 10 minutes and 40 seconds, edging out the team of Javier Robles, Adolfo Arellano and Cesar Lopez on their Honda TRX450R by just 21 seconds. Danny Prather, Mike Cafro, Chad Prull and Levi Marana, also on a TRX700XX, finished eight minutes and 35 seconds behind the leaders in third place.

Though they did pick up the victory, the race was not without its challenges for Matlock, Spaeth and Miller.

“At one point I handed the bike over to Mark Spaeth and the (Robles/Arellano/Lopez) team was just mere seconds behind us,” Matlock tells ATV.com. “Mark was pushing really hard and came into a turn. There were some rain ruts that were about two to three feet deep and one of the tires got stuck into the rain rut and it hooked a hard right and hit a bush and flipped the quad over.

“He landed in a ditch upside down and he was pinned underneath the quad. It took him a while to get out from underneath the quad. He had to break a fencepost off an old barbwire fence and pry the quad out of the ditch. “

Researchers at the University of Kentucky are conducting a study on ATV safety for youths.

The study will investigate the causes for severe ATV-related injuries. Kentucky regularly ranks among the top states in ATV deaths. During Memorial Day weekend, 13 ATV-related deaths were reported nationally, with four of them in Kentucky. Two of the four were 12 years old and a third was 17. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commissioner, 29% of reported ATV-related fatalities involve children younger than 16 years old from 1982-2006.

Testing began on June 9 at the school’s Wenner-Gren Biomedical Research Facility. Volunteers aged 12-15 of varying sizes participated in the first stage of the study, riding youth- and adult-sized ATVs on a platform that simulates different terrain.

Researches captured biometric data using video and motion-capture technology. With this information, researchers can create 3D models of riders under different riding conditions. These models will help assess ATV elements such as brake lever design.

Later phases of the study will examine visual perception, hazard recognition and ATV braking and steering.

Suzuki’s Dustin Wimmer dealt his fellow competitors another blow by winning his fourth race of the season in the ITP Tires/Moose Racing AMA/ATVA National Motocross Championship in New Berlin, NY on June 8.

Wimmer finished second in both motos to secure the victory. Team Epic’s Jeremy Lawson was second, while Honda’s Joe Byrd was third.

Race day saw muddy conditions at Unadilla MX and Wimmer says an intelligent strategy helped him in the end.

“In the mud, you really have to finesse the bike so it doesn’t slip out on you,” says Wimmer. “I did what I had to do to stay behind John (Natalie) in the second moto and, since I didn’t need to pass him for the win, I just stayed consistent and rode smart.”

Dustin Wimmer looks to build on his lead when the ITP Tires/Moose Racing AMA/ATVA National Motocross Championship Presented by Parts Unlimited heads to Unadilla MX in New Berlin, NY, June 7 to 8.

Suzuki’s Wimmer had a commanding 41-point lead in the chase for the points championship. Through the first six rounds he has won three races and collected two other podium finishes.

Fellow Suzuki rider Doug Gust, who has been consistent all year, is leading the chase. He has five top-five finishes, including one win, so far this season.

Meanwhile, defending and two-time AMA National Champion Joe Byrd has been on a tear during the last three races. With two victories, as well as a runner-up finish, Honda’s Byrd has quietly elevated himself to third in points, 57 behind Wimmer.

Veteran ATV racers James Stowell and Matthew Pomeroy recorded Pro division wins on Sunday, June 1 as Rock Maple Racing (RMR) completed Round 3 on its 11-race 2008 Can-Am Series at Crow Hill Motor Sports Park in Templeton, Mass.

Stowell powered his Honda to a win in the Pro Unlimited final, while Pomeroy finished in front of the field in the Pro Am final. This is a reversal of fortunes from Round 2 when Pomeroy won the Pro Unlimited and Stowell won the Pro Am. Brent Miller finished second in both of the Pro classes.

Mike Taylor prevailed in a hotly-contested A Unlimited final, holding off Colin Lancaster and Steffan Dager for top honors. Brad Burbine out-gunned Casey Wingate and Steve Scotia to claim victory in the B Unlimited final.

Yamaha Motor Corporation USA of Cypress, Calif. has released a new informational DVD featuring the company’s Rhino side-by-side (SxS) vehicles.

The new DVD provides a review of the new Rhino 700 FI and Rhino 450 and also delivers head-to-head comparisons with competing models.

Viewers can choose from different sections of the DVD, including ‘Explore Rhino or ‘Rhino vs. the Competition’. The ‘Explore Rhino’ section provides an overview of the features and benefits for both the Rhino 700 FI and the Rhino 450. Features for both models include a 4-stroke engine, fully automatic Ultramatic transmission with dual-range drive and reverse and three-position On-Command in/out 4WD. The Rhino overview demonstrates how these features and benefits combine to create a tough, durable and dependable ride through different types of terrain.

Allowing consumers to see the Rhino in head-to-head action, the ‘Rhino vs. The Competition’ section pits the Rhino 700 FI against competitors such as the Kawasaki Teryx 750 4×4, Polaris Ranger RZR, Arctic Cat Prowler 700 XTX and the Polaris Ranger XP, and features the Rhino 450 battling it out against the Polaris Ranger 500, Kawasaki Mule 610 and 2-up ATVs.

“The new Rhino DVD provides in-depth information that will serve any potential SxS customer well – from hunters and farmers to weekend warriors and recreational riders,” says John Landre, Yamaha’s ATV/SxS business planning manager. “The detailed information and head-to-head comparisons show just how the Rhino dominates the competition as the most versatile SxS on the market.”

The free Rhino DVD is available online at http://www.yamahaoutdoors.com/.

Related Reading:
2008 Yamaha Rhino 450 4×4 Review
2008 Yamaha Rhino 700 Review

Anybody still worrying about Bill Ballance’s poor start on the 2008 Can-Am Grand National Cross Country (GNCC) Series can probably stop. Ballance rode his Yamaha YFZ450 to his third consecutive win on June 1 in Sparta, Ky.

KTM’s Adam McGill, who was leading the XC1 Pro points chase heading into the Sparta race, had mechanical problems and failed to finish. Ballance now holds a 14-point lead over McGill.

“Man it feels good to win in front of so many friends and family,” says Ballance. “These were my type of conditions. It was hard and fast and I was able to have fun.”

Fellow Yamaha rider Brandon Sommers finished second to Ballance, while The National Guard/Honda rider William Yokley crossed the finish line in third for his second podium of the season.

Fans of ATV racing will have another opportunity to watch it in the comfort of their own homes.

Adventure Sports Promotions LLC, promoters of World Off Road Championship Series (WORCS), has announced that WORCS Racing TV will to be coming to a living room near you. WORCS Racing will air its initial episode on Tuesday, June 3 at 10:30 pm et/7:30pm pt on Man TV (Maximum Adventure Network), which is available on channel 608 on Direct TV.

Securing a television deal for WORCS Racing was proving difficult before Man TV came to the table. The deal with Man TV was made in April and WORCS TV quickly put together a package to advertise, produce and promote its racers.

“Out of all my business adventures I can say this has by far been the most frustrating and challenging issue I have came across,” says WORCS Racing owner and CEO Sean Reddish. “I have had 3-4 networks lined up in the past two years to go live with our series and time after time it has fallen aside. I was pleased to be able to work with Michael Klahr and the group at Man TV.

“I am pleased to partner up with Maximum Adventure Network. I have seen their work and took time to read reviews and look over references. They are an up and coming channel that is being aggressive in the market. I wanted a partner, not someone that just wanted a check.”

WORCS Racing will televise all 10 rounds of the Motorcycle series along with all eight rounds of the ATV series for 2008, starting with the pilot on June 3rd – 2008 Rocky Mountain ATV/MC WORCS Racing series Motorcycle Rd #1 in Phoenix, AZ. ATV & Motorcycle events will alternate weekly until the remainder of the season in October, with re-airs until December.

For more information on WORCS Racing, visit www.worcsracing.com/. Information on Man TV can be found at www.maximumadventurenetwork.com/.

Consumer Digest has recently named the Yamaha Raptor 250 and Raptor 250 SE Best Buys in the Sport ATV category.

According to Yamaha, the Raptor 250, which has an MSRP of $3,999, set a new standard in entry-level sport ATVs.

“Unlike competing models, which are typically modified from a utility ATV base, the Raptor 250 was built as a sport machine from the ground-up providing superior performance for new or experienced riders,” Yamaha says in a release.

The Raptor 250 and Raptor 250 SE were both selected as Best Buys in the Economy sub-category. This rating designates products that provide the essential performance capabilities but with minimal or no added features allowing for an advantageous price to cost-conscious consumers.

The Florida Supreme Court will hear a case in June that could change parental rights when it comes to children participating in potentially risky activities.

The death of 14-year-old Christopher Jones in an ATV accident five years ago is at the crux of the case.

On May 10, 2003, Bobby Jones took his son Christopher to Thunder Cross Motor Sports Park in Okeechobee Country, Fla. Bobby Jones signed a release form on behalf of his son, waiving any liability and the right to sue the park. Christopher was killed when he fell off his ATV during a jump and the ATV landed on top of him.

Christopher’s mother Bette Jones, who was divorced from Bobby Jones at the time and was unaware of the ATV riding, filed a wrongful death suit against the owners and managers of the now defunct park in 2005. Late that year the circuit court granted a motion for summary judgment because Bobby Jones signed the release form. In August of 2007, the 4th District Court of Appeal reversed the decision, saying nothing in Florida law allows a parent to waive those legal rights for a child

“A pre-injury release actually encourages activity providers to cut costs at the expense of the safety of the children, perhaps even ignoring safety entirely because it removes their obligation of reasonable care toward children,” Lawrence Hutton, one of Bette Jones’ attorneys, said to TCPalm.com.

Bobby Jones has signed an affidavit saying that he fully understood what he was doing when he signed the release form. Attorneys for the park, according to TCPalm.com, are arguing that parents should have the ability to waive their children’s right to sue.

KTM factory rider Tim Farr put together a sensational performance in the Erzberg Iron Road Prologue at the Erzberg Rodeo, held May 22-25.

Farr placed second in the event, which was at least 60 places better than an ATV had ever achieved on the Iron Mountain in previous editions of the Erzberg Rodeo.

It was the 13-time ATV Pro Champion’s first appearance at the event, which takes place in the Austrian Alps.

“I really wanted to come here to compete and it’s quite a surprise for me that I was up with the front runners,” says Farr. “I definitely want to come back to Erzberg again.”

With a very soft US economy, gas prices soaring higher every day, and family discretionary dollars shrinking, you would think a company that builds recreation-oriented powersports products might be pessimistic about its future. But if Minnesota-based Polaris Industries Inc. has negative thoughts, company officials hid it well at Polaris’ May 2008 annual shareholders meeting.

In fact, Polaris executives were very upbeat and looking to grow in a down market. Chief executive officer Tom Tiller, who had already announced that he would leave the company by the end of the year, said that Polaris could be a US$5 billion company in the years ahead.

This optimistic forecast comes off a solid year of success in 2007, which was in sharp contrast to 2006 sales results. Last year’s annual meeting saw the first non-growth year in Tiller’s 10-year reign of overseeing Polaris. Where sales for 2006 fell to US$1.66 billion, 2007 saw a return to growth of 7% versus the previous year.

“Polaris gained market share in every business group for the first time ever in the company’s history,” explained Polaris president and chief operating officer Bennett Morgan.

Two-time defending champion Joe Byrd looks to be back in top form after picking up his second victory of the year in Round 6 of the ITP Tires/Moose Racing AMA/ATVA National Motocross Championship Series, May 25 in Mount Morris, Pa.

Highpoint Raceway hosted this Showcase Event, which also featured the opening round of the ITP Tires Grand Slam.

Series leader and factory Suzuki rider Dustin Wimmer looked like the man to beat this weekend after winning the first moto. Team Epic’s Jeremy Lawson rode his Can-Am DS450 to second place, while Byrd finished third on his Honda TRX450R.

The second moto, however, was all Byrd. He got out of the gate quickly, picked up the holeshot award and held off the field for the victory.

Polaris Industries Inc. announced that it received a favorable result regarding the enforcement of its intellectual property rights.

Polaris previously filed suit against Jerrico and CSK for the import and sale of ATVs that infringe Polaris’ US Patent No. 6,270,106 and trade dress rights. Polaris obtained a settlement from the parties. Jerrico is no longer in business and no longer imports or sells ATVs.

“We view this as an important victory for us in enforcing our intellectual property rights,” says Mary McConnell, general counsel of Polaris Industries Inc. “Polaris will continue to take further action against infringers where appropriate.”

When asked exactly what product was infringed upon, Polaris would not provide details. However, according to the United States Patent and Trademark Office, Patent No. 6,270,106, which was filed by Polaris in 1998, involves the following:

Demaree Farms in Cross Plains, Ind. played host to Round 3 of the Indiana XC Racing (IXCR) Series on May 18.

Thanks to rain and wind in the days leading up to the race, the seven-mile track had a good mix of dust and mud. Nearly 300 bike and ATV racers showed up on race day ready to ride.

Factory Yamaha-backed Donald Ockerman took home the overall ATV win, followed by Craig Bowman. Jonathan Fugate won the A Class, ahead of Moto-Xperts rider Wesley Fruits.

Fred Marley rode his S.I.C.C. Racing Honda to a first-place finish in the B 16-25 Class, while Mike Goss was tops in 26+ B Class. Justin Kirchhoff won the 16-21 C Class and Gary Stallard bested the field in the 22-29 C Class. Mike Muskopf has really turned up the dial since switching over to the Honda and he built up even more momentum with another victory in the 30+ C Class.