Bench Racing Ammo: Point/Counterpoint MXdN
Friday, July 27, 2012 | 11:00 AM
MOTOREX is used by factory teams worldwide, by independent pros and by top amateurs who demand the best performance from their race machines. The complete MOTOREX line includes a broad range of synthetic engine oils, lubricants, aerosol sprays, cleaners and care products. MOTOREX is available at dealerships nationwide.
Tweet
Advertisement | Advertise with Us
Share
Comment
Email
PrintWeege: Okay, Steve, we all know filling out the three-man roster for Team USA's Motocross of Nations effort is going to be complicated this year (or any year). We also know you're Canadian and have suspect motives. I haven't forgotten that you were Tim Ferry's wrench the last time the U.S. ever lost the ‘Nations. So, since you're not Born in the U.S.A. like I am, you should defer to me. The des Nations team, will be, Ryan Dungey, Blake Baggett and Justin Barcia on a 450. As you like to say, stamp it. Put it in concrete and sign it in blood. No one has told me this, I do not have any insider info, but I can read handwriting on the wall, and it says Bam Bam + 450 = USA#1!
Matthes: First off, my experience as an actual real live member of Team USA should put me ahead of many in offering my opinions. It’s like a secret club or something. I’m an alumnus and therefore, my thoughts are much better than, say, an ex-flagger from Englishtown like you.
The two fastest riders I’ve EVER seen in the sand are a guy from Florida with the initials R and C and James Stewart. That’s it, there’s no one else even in the discussion. Remember when Marc de Reuver came to Southwick with the label of “best sand rider in the world” and promptly pulled in behind Stewart at Southwick to see what he had? Yeah, uhh, how did that go Marc? I can still hear him on the podium saying “Stewart...he’s unbelievable…” and since the MXdN is in the deep sands of Lommel this year, how Stewart is not on the team until HE says he can’t be is beyond me.
Team manager Roger DeCoster is a great guy and has guided more Team USA’s than I can shake a stick at, but in an interview last week he wrote Stewart off by saying, “he’s up and down.” Yeah, he can be but it’s because HE’S HURT! When he was healthy and had a few weeks on the Suzuki, he won four motos in a row and was the man. But for some reason, like the chicken and the egg argument, Stewart’s not going to be on the team and Roger doesn’t want him on the team. So clearly, the next choice is the man who just stopped Dungey’s domination. That’s right, I believe the hype, the universe has spoke and it shall say MIKE ALESSI - MXDN TEAM MEMBER!!!!
Steve Matthes thinks the last spot belongs to Mike Alessi.
Simon Cudby photo
Weege: Agreed, Stew is 100, 1000, or 10,000 percent guaranteed the best pick for the other spot on the team. But that’s only according to you and I—but not the team manager, who is also not from the U.S…..but I digress. DeCoster has helped manage like 20-some victorious Team USA efforts (including the first one in ’81) so we have to defer to him. I think he’s crazy to not give James the first option. And, I’d be at Stewart’s house right now offering to put red white and blue graphics on the bike to persuade him. I mean, the MXdN will be THREE MONTHS after Stewart’s Colorado crash, so I’m pretty sure he’ll be healed up. And he clearly doesn’t need much run up time on the Suzuki seeing as that he’s already won four motos on it. And it’s a sand track! I totally agree with you that the Stewart option should be explored to the fullest, however, if it’s not, our agreement ends there. Barcia is going to get the spot over Alessi. He’s on a factory team with deep ties into Europe, while Alessi is a privateer. Can MotoConcepts really have it all dialed in? Also, I can argue that Barcia on a 450 last year was closer to Dungey/Villopoto speed than Alessi is this year. That’s right. I said it.
Matthes: I like Barcia, he’s a future star in the sport and if it doesn’t work out, he can enter mustache contests at local carnivals. But I say that the only way Bam Bam goes is if he wins the 250 title and then goes on a, wait for it, a 250! You know, on the bike he’s been on ALL YEAR. Whoever wins the 250 outdoor title out of Baggett, Tomac or Barcia (can’t be Roczen, because, even though he doesn’t act like it, he’s German) should go. On a 250. We can all acknowledge that Dungey is currently the fastest rider in the world who is actually racing. Guys like RV, Reed, Ferry and Stewart just haven’t been on a bike enough lately to even make an argument against Dungey right now. Okay, so Dungey’s the fastest man in the world, and his Team USA 450 teammate, I want to send the GUY WHO JUST BEAT HIM. Mike Alessi!
Don’t even bring up that support stuff Weege, the owner of MotoConcepts, Mike Genova, will climb out of his hot tub and spend whatever he can to make sure Alessi is well-equipped over there. Two bikes and the support crew he has had all summer should be enough. Mike’s been giving Ryan a run all summer and that’s a fact. I don’t feel comfortable enough with Justin on a 450 to send him, I just don’t. I’d rather take the proven commodity of Alessi (sweet Jesus I can’t believe I just typed that but it’s true) to go and wax the Euros!
While Weege is placing his money on Barcia.
Simon Cudby photo
I like Mike and respect what he’s doing this summer. But Team USA likes the star power, almost like they want to send a wild child like Barcia, and have him take dudes out and wax ‘em on a bike he’s not familiar with just to make it sting a little more. It’d be like O’Mara on a 125 in 1986, years after he had stopped racing 125s. Or Hannah the next year. Or Damon Bradshaw on a 125 in 1990…okay, skip that one.
I still say Barcia jumping up a bike isn’t a big deal. Dungey did it in ’09 and Team USA won. And speaking of support groups, Barcia will have Jeff Stanton on his side, and it’s commonly known that when Stanton shows up for an MXdN, the European pits suddenly put in a double-sized order of port-a-johns because he scares the crap out of ‘em.I think Barcia’s challenges against Dungey and Villopoto last year justify the move. And, wait…what about RV!?!?! He’s back on the bike today!!!
Matthes: My head hurts with the Villopoto news. I’m glad I’m not Roger and have to figure this out. Instead I’m just some Team USA alumnus who’s from Canada second-guessing him.
James Stewart, if healthy, would be the pick of both Matthes and Weege.
Simon Cudby
Weege: I’ve got good news on the RV front! This year’s MXdN is held two weeks later than last year (it’s September 30th). You need a few weeks to ship bikes, so let’s say they need to decide on the team, for sure, by September 1. RV is riding today, so he’s got a full month to decided if he’ll be ready, and then, another full month to keep prepping. Two full months on the bike! If anything, the only tough call for Roger will be who rides the MX 1 class. You know, last year they put Dungey in it citing him “having won the MX1 class the year before.” So, do you honor that same rule with RV and put him in the MX1 class in his very first race since April? And oh by the way, does RV have a deal for next year signed? That could be an issue but hey, screw money and security by rushing back from a big injury early. DO IT FOR YOUR COUNTRY!
Matthes: Like I said, this stuff hurts my head. Can RV be ready? Why not James? Why does Roger act like he’s allergic to Alessi? In all reality it’s going to be tough for RV to be ready and after all, he’s in contract talks with a bunch of people, this is not a risk worth taking. What about this idea? Forget RV, Stewart and all the other guys. The deep sands of Lommel are calling, we need our very best soft stuff specialists to step up. You think Liles, Emig and LaRocco are a B-Team back in 1992? How about we send Dungey, Matt Goerke and John Dowd? Yeah I said it. And when the fastest rider in the world currently racing, a dude who races in Canada and 47-year-old John EFFING Dowd win that Chamberlain trophy, we’ll all sit back and laugh as the Euro’s realize that USA could send any one of fifty dudes and still win! [Insert maniacal laughter here]
Weege: Now you’re crazy. Seriously, if you suggest sending Dowd, how do you NOT include Doug Henry? He’s got those caged bikes and hauls ass. How would the world feel about being beaten by a 47-year-old and a dude with a cage? Plus, I’m onto your little Goerke deal—you want to sneak him onto Team USA as Canadian National Champion and thus claim some sort of co-victory for the Canucks. Ain’t happening! I’ll put my faith in the New England boys, though.
Or better yet, New Jersey! Barcia would be the first ‘Jersey born MXdN member and thus we could run Born in the USA all weekend in honor of The Boss (even though the song is actually an anti-Vietnam piece). But you know, on the Jersey subject, I’m thinking, sand track and Holland….IS THIS RACE NOT TAILOR MADE FOR J-LAW!? WHERE’S HE AT?!
And then there's the wild-card, Ryan Villopoto.
Simon Cudby photo
Matthes: This thing is turning silly for sure but back to the point. If you feel comfortable sending a complete rookie to the MXdN on a bike that he hasn’t raced all year, never mind the fact that between Barcia and Reed’s double crushing DNF’s at Southwick last year, Metcalfe running out of gas on a Honda in 2010 and Andrew Short’s bike blowing up in practice (another Honda by the way) you’re also saying you have complete faith in the Honda’s in the deep sand then go ahead. It’s not my country’s chances that you’re rolling the dice on. Come to think of it, maybe that would be a good idea, it might help my clown-show-when-it-comes-to-the-MXdN country of Canada out. We’re actually sending a team this year and maybe, just maybe…actually never mind. They can’t beat the U.S.A. no matter who gets picked.
Did you like this article?
Check out HIGH/LOW
in our Latest issue of Racer X available now.
Each of the five major manufacturers had its ups and downs during the 2013 Monster Energy Supercross campaign. Page 118.
Look for the verified symbol 
Impulse Studios
Guys isn't the MX3 class on open class? Can't you run a 250 if you wanted? What about Barcia on a 250 in MX3 if your worried about the 450 Honda holding up?
If Stewart comes back at southwick and battles with Dungey. Case closed!
Only one of the pictured four have EARNED the right to represent their country at the MXON this season.
MX1 RD5
MX2 Chupacabra
MX3 BAM BAM
Game over.
LOL good stuff!!
Send John Effing Dowd, Robby Marshall, and Jimmy DeCotis! New England Representing!
I think if JS is back winning we send him!!! he already said he would do it. he has crazy speed in the sand and also knows how to back it down when needed believe it or not. But if going into the 3rd moto we need crazy speed he is you man and you roll the dice.
. I would still love to hear RV say I want to go!! If he says he is ready thats good enough for me.
.I don't have a problem with barcia going either. Just think next year could even be harder to pick if all ar healthy!!
Just send RD, Dowd, and Baggett. They can and would get it done.
Would like to hear what Rodger D has to say about JS but I am sure we will not just like they gave RD the MX1 ride last year behind closed doors. I just really hope we win to shut EVERYONE over there up after hearing how sandy it is it will be real fun to kick there butt's in it cuz they will have nothing left to say.
Of course Matthes wants Alessi to go... Matthes is Canadian and trying to ruin the US of A's chances of winning MXDN.
The clear choice is Dungey, Baggett, and Barcia, Stewart or Tomac. They are all faster than Alessi. I would go with Bam Bam in MX3 because he rides well in the sand and he handles pressure well.
Hey, Weege. Check your own RacerX bio. Justin Barcia - born in Monroe, NY. We've had few top riders; don't be trying to steal one from us!
Great stuff guys! I think we would win with any of those combinations. I think sending Alessi as a privateer would make a good story so that would probably be my vote. Has a privateer ever raced the MXdN for USA?
Will people stop spelling DeCoster's first name with a D! It's not "Rodger," for God's sake! (BillC, you can be excused, since you spell half your words wrong anyway.)
I think JS would dominate if he is healthy and should be considered, Barcia would also do the USA proud. I would be embarrassed as an American to send Alessi. I do not think one win in a rider depleted season qualifies him to be considered. Barcia was killing it last year on a 450. I would also send Tomac before Alessi. DeCoster knows Alessi pretty well and he doesn't want to send him then thats good with me.
Sand= Dowd! Dowd! Dowd!
The last spot is between Stewart and Barcia and luckily it's not my decision to make.
I know the JS haters love the fact that he may not go, but i'm sorry, "THE MAN" needs to get over whatever stupid as personal problem he has with James, not a conspiracy theorist, i'm not a JS fanatic, i just think that it is blatantly obvious that Mr. THE MAN DeCoster has some sort of problem with James. Maybe it's that JS has usually been the guy (when he is out there) to stop his riders from getting titles through the years!! That and the fact that until JS screwed up and got hurt this year, he was once again besting "THE MAN'S" top rider!! I respect he guy for all he's done and how he runs his teams and all that, ya ya ya, i really do!! But not really even considering James is bullshit and i think "THE MAN" needs to sack up and just tell the truth about how he feels......C'mon Rog!!!! Let's hear it!!!
If Stewart or RV can't make it, you'd have to choose Bagget and Barcia...why give it to Alessi when the top 250 riders have faster times then his most races
It is hilarious to see Weege (and for that matter DC, Weege's puppetmaster -- Weege can't even scratch his balls without DC's approval), take a break from sucking off Stewart at every opportunity. When it gets down to the nitty-gritty of the MXdN, DC knows Stewrat is a loose cannon. An ego maniac, that only cares about maintaining his distorted perception of his image. (Distorted, because his view of himself is far from the actual average public perception.)
A similar situation applies to Alessi. The Euros will park Alessi as soon as half of the first lap is complete, and he starts riding behind himself. No one is gong to put up with his blocking crap, and jumping over. Alessi would be so slammed and beat down, he'd be picking Lommel sand out of his rear for a year.
What needs to happen is... A qualified, intelligent manager (DeCoster) needs to have the power to make the decision, without all this flack from shitpuppets and nobodies. The manager should have the final word, and if anyone has a problem with it, they should get their face stomped.
It befuddles me that Matthes has clout in this sport. So it sounds like there aren't any Hondas that run Lommel in the GP series. What about the Pro Circuit Kawasaki 250s blowing up at Southwick? We better not send Baggett then, right? Bam Bam needs to light Herlings up, sorry Mikey.
My pick on the Mx3 has to be James. He can uncork speed on demand, and is really just dogging it now. Put him on the big stage and he will either win, or die trying. After saying it that way, maybe Barcia would actually be a pretty good pick...
Stewert does kill it in the sand, and if he comes back winning and putting pressure on Dungey then you gotta send him. If not, BAM BAM is the best choice.
Lets Face it Alessi might have won that one moto, but it was after dungey reeled him in very quickly even after crashing. I am liking alessi more and more , but he still doesnt have the speed or fittness. BAM BAM could go faster then him on a 250cc
come on SEF154!!!! 50%??? I think you are exaggerating!! I have goten much better. :-)
come on SEF154!!!! 50%??? I think you are exaggerating!! I have goten much better. :-)
5 - 450f
20 - 450f whether he wins the title or not
12 - 250f
The sand in Lommol is very different and is much deeper and rougher than Southwick. BB can't ride the GP tracks, they are a slower pace and much more technical. His style is all balls out speed, i think he will struggle.
Speed, teamwork, dealing with pressure, and consistency.Recent history says RD5, Baggett, Barcia will be just fine.
My favourite rider is RV (and I'd love to see him go) but I don't think it would be fair or smart for this year. JS is fast, and that's where it stops. Too unreliable in recent memory. Having such an issue deciding the USA team is a good problem to have, can't go totally wrong with any of the guys mentioned.
Id rather see Marty Smith in there instead of Alessi. Cmaaaawn man.
I say, 2,5,&7 all on 250's.
Matthes, really???!!!!!! you are actually comparing Alessi's speed with Dungey's speed based on one moto???? Dude, put down your crack pipe!!!!!!!
Alessi beat Dungey one moto by 1.5 seconds, AFTER, Dungey fell down and re-caught him. Then the Dungenator smoked Alessi by 30 seconds in the second moto. Alessi has been no closer that 20-25 seconds when he has finished second to Dungey in other motos this year. Matthes....Alessi is not in the same universe as Dungey, so get over the idea that he should be a part of the MXdN based on the one moto at Washougal.
BamBam and Tomac, on 250's, have smoked Alessi's lap times on a 450. Matthes.....wake up, pull your head out of your 4th point of contact, and drop Alessi as one of your picks.
BamBam on a 250, or a 450, is the obvious choice as of now. Lets see how Stewie does at Southwick. My concern with Stewie is that "HE SAID" that the wrist was not a problem as he raced at Spring Creek to a 6-3 or whatever it was (didn't care and didn't pay attention) then all of a sudden he has a bad wrist again??? I am not buying it. Stewie has not raced a full outdoor season since 2008, and he was being hounded, AND FORCED, to race at a pace he could not sustain in the long run because he was not used to 30+2 X 2. He crashed (shocked?) and fortunately for him had a photographer to blame for his "LACK" of focus and concentration (FACT) at Lakewood.
Not a Stewart hater at all, but the facts are the facts..........I agree with DeCosters assessment that he is up and down. (wishywashy)
2012 MXdN as of now......
MX1 Dungey
MX2 Baggett
MX3 Barcia
How can this be a bad choice?
C'mon Stewart would get a fricken blister or crash out and lose it for us. And by the way Dungey is FASTER than JS7 in outdoors now. So Dungey who is the best and fastest man on the planet is in. Baggett has shown that even on bad days he can either redeem himself the 2nd moto or salvage solid positions. Plus if he catches fire he could be the only 1 to go toe to toe with Dungey this year. Finally Barcia is an extremely fast sand rider, he already won a race at southwick, and has been so dang strong and consistant this year. Hes workin so hard and if you pay attention he chips digits off BB12s lead every week lately. I love RV but I just think hell need like 1 more month than he has to be ready for all out 30+2. There you go ur teams Dungey 450, Baggett 250 and Barcia 450.
Its about time we had another country win to stop the americans sucking there own dicks!!!
Lets wait to after SOUTHWICK before we talk about sand.......If Barcia beats Bagget then send him on the MX3. What about RD5, RV and JS..............there. Would love to see Villopoto spank the world on a 250.........................AGAIN
How about...
RD on a 450 MX1
RV on a 450 MX3
JS on a 125 MX2
everyone is saying how baggett wont do good a gp track, but last year he won his quilification race over roczen and everyone else on 250s on a track he had never raced before! he'll do just fine at lommel if hes picked.
250 class isnt over yet. What if Barcia wins the title??
RD-MX1
JB-MX2
JS-MX3
sounds like a pretty good sand team
and pro circuit has a team in europe so they use there information to help baggett, geico has no information about settings at lommel
People are saying that Dungey has smoked Alessi all year, which he has done most of the year.
Don't you realize that Dungey will probably smoke most of the riders at the Des Nations anyways.
Who will be close to him besides Antonio Cairoli, Clement DeSalle, and maybe Christophe Pourcel?
Alessi should be top 5 in both motos he races and should be able to WIN his class.
It's all about him winning HIS CLASS and the points for the classes COMBINED. He doesn't need to finish right behind Dungey.
Dungey could finish 1st in both races, Alessi could finish 5th but beat all MX3 riders, Baggett could finish 10th but beat all MX2 riders.
Do people not realize that?
Alessi deserves it.
I got a hundred bucks says Dungey and the KTM are goin'...........................................and should Baggett and Barcia....Havoc7 needs to stay home and get ready for the new improved completely well Ryan Villapoto who will crush the 450 SX class like a bug because thats what he does.
agreed with bad billy, Dunge, Barcia, & Stewart should be talked about more... bagget is fast no doubt but he's from hardpack california whereas stewart and barcia live in florida
Hell.. We can win with any of these guys! Even our "B" team took the trophy a few years ago.
250 = Chupacabra
450 = Dungey
Open = Pornstache
STAMP IT!!
I dont care who you are ! Decoster is not going to pick a guy that has not been consistant at all this year ! How soon everyone forgets 2010 ...no chance
5, 12, 20 Its just a shame that windham didnt do the outdoors.......He would of made the grade..........
SeventiesRacer: EXACTLY!
Matthes wrote: "..my experience as an actual real live member of Team USA should put me ahead of many in offering my opinions."
Key word is "SHOULD". It obviously doesn't. Dungey was 2 seconds a lap faster than Dungey in moto1. He just could get by the human road block to prove it. He's too smart to let that human road block crash him trying.
IMO it's Dungey, Bagget and Barcia UNLESS RV1 wants to go. If he chooses then he is a lock!!
Alessi should be a consideration but no factory and burnt bridges keep him from being on! Thats the way it is in Moto...........Mostly politics then talent
Should have said "2 seconds faster than Allessi"-not Dungey.
By the way, Matthes: You must be the only person in the MX world who wonders why Decoster is "alergic" to Alessi....
Dungey would cry if Barcia was on the same team! Remember Unadilla last year? bahahah
^BAHAHAH retard. I just want to see Jeff Herlings lose in the sand, just to say " You are the fastest sand rider when USA isnt in the mix.
ScottTc250 if they are good enough they will win, Just does not happen offten and the fact that it bugs you makes me happy!! so go suck yours if you can find it!!
anybody who doesn't think stewart is the best choice for mxdn either has an emotional block with regards to the man or is just plain retarded, and probably both.
barcia could do the job much better than alessi. he straight up hauls balls on a 450 and all of these kids can switch bikes with ease.
alessi would finish top 10 and then weird out every pro rider in the world that he finished ahead of with aggressively friendly overtures after each moto.
Dungey, Tomac and Barcia. These three are the elite at performing under pressure and all three ride very well in deep sand.
Stamp it. It's done.
Where is EuroMike with his cry baby storys how the MXD is not fair!! Waaaaaaaaaaaaaa
I Remember when Marc de Reuver came to Southwick I was there, The dude could not believe JS, He said the guy is not human he goes so fast. That coming from "the fastest sand rider in the world" LOL he got schooled!!!
I don't get how Matthes could be so against Barcia on a 450?? The kid won the second moto at Southwick on what was only his 3rd race on a 450 I believe. Plus I doubt it matters that he hasn't been riding the bike all year. He's got a month or so after the last round to get adjusted and besides anybody remember Dungey jumping on the 450 in 09 and destroying the field?? Makes sense that Decoster would have bad blood with Alessi and Dungey would get the number one spot no matter what because he is Roger's golden boy (Deservingly so right now) Stewart's decision should be based on his Southwick performance and if he feels up to it. He already put it to Dungey 4 times this year with limited time on the bike!
Ok ,Ok now I am all confused or maybe it is the MD 20/20 I just got? just an ongoing joce with CZmark anyhoooo,
First of all I would not even take Allesi iinto consideration. then I think Barcia is the choice for eithe open or 250's even if he wants to ride the 250 hemight have an advantage on that 250 in the open class. The other 2 slots are open to me til we see what happens at Southwick. If RV can get some time behind the bars in competion before Sept. that may help the desision. I would not trust Bagget nor the PC engines at Lommel and they are both deserving. with no direspect to Dungy who I am a great fan of him, With the fact that it is at Lommel I would want Stewart there with Villo. Then remeber there is sand there and ask Bob Hannah where the toughest sand race he ever raced at and I think he will tell you the National in77 at Keithsburg ILL. I think he had raced at Lommel befor also? DC can you ask him if I am correct?
If all are healthy my picks are:
Villo
Barcia
Stewart
they can decice what bike they wanna ride.
The "B" class of "B classes.
Hannah
Smith
Dowd
Lets wait for Southwick and see what happens.
Now lets ave the trash talk keep going! I was wondering what weh would do through Ponca and Lynn's this will keep us going !!!!
LETS RACE!!!!
PS: I did not do spell check I have bad fingers thanks to the old snow fences that used to linew the track.
Dungey for sure
Whoever wins the title in the 250 class. That could Baggett, Barcia, or Tomac . Yes Tomac . Stranger things have happened with DNF's , crashes and injuries. Either way send the winner of the class. Whoever it is they will deserve it. Period
Early in the season when Stewart and Dungey were at it I thought the U.S. would have one of the best MXOF Teams ever. But after Stewarts I hurt , I am not hurt . I wanna race , I don't wanna race . His team saying they are really concentrating on 2013 . No . Early on I wanted him to go , but now no way. He did not earn it or want it.. Damned shame because he has never shown the Europeans his true speed . Also his history of crashing at the other MXON . I think he easily could have passed Everts but Decoster had him on a leash. Points , points , points. Last chance for James as RV will be back next year and you know Dungey will be there . Taking Stewart now is liking taking a bike to the line with a cracked frame . It may go fast for a while but will break before the finish line leaving you with a DNF . Stewarts frame is cracked.
So right now , who do we take as the third rider . Not to worry , like our government . A political decision will be made. Deserving or underserving we can talk all we want but the decision will be made.
With that been said this has always been a very political Team Pick . I feel they should have some sort of system as to who goes. 1st 250 , 1st 450 , and then maybe a wildcard .
Should be interesting.
Guys, this is very simple---
1. RD ---- Common sense
2. BB --- There is avery good chance he is the fastest guy in the world right now, especially on a 250.
3. JB ( if not JS )
RV should not even be considered. He's hurt for far to long. Even though he would kick a$$.
JS and Alessi ride zukes. Not gonna be on Rogers team. Would end up with an orange bike sandwiched between two yellow ones in the points. I love all the idiots slanging alessi's times this year. Give him a factory zuke and see where he ends up on the board. The dude is fast. Faster than about um..... all the factory guys but dungey!
delete second sentence on last post, screwed up my edit. Dungey, Bagget, Cry baby Barcia. Political and no Suzukis.
Allessi had a factory Suzuki and a Factory KTM . Where did he finish in each of those seasons? He is currently in second and with a factory bike he would still be in second. . He often thinks he is better than he really is . If he wins a couple titles I will retract my statement. At Washougal he was in the same position as Dungey in the first moto. Did he try to challenge for the win. Take away his holeshot ability he is a top ten rider. If he could break away from the old man and get a good coach ...........
@ Welker Been there done that in the 70's Raced a couple of Harescambles there back then...................There are some good you tube vids out there from that track shot a couple of years back.................We went to a lot of all sand tracks for winter riding back then because of the ground freeze thaw situation.... from Ohio..........I remember on Christmas eve we were ridding in Ohio it was almost 60 degrees ....... My step brother Ed was a master at the scub before shuch stuff was herd of..........But still rode frozen clay which is very unforgiving when hitting the deck........
One factor that doesn't seem to be factored in here is past performance at the MXdN. Stewart has a stellar record. Bagget, on the other hand, was a bit of an embarrassment last year. RV1 went 3-1, RD5 went 3-2, Baggett went 17-17. Why does everyone act like he is the natural choice? Barcia would be a good choice, as well. His performance last year at Unadilla, Southwick and Pala show that he will be a force to reckon with in the big bike class next year. With very little time to prepare, he held off Dungey for 30 minutes at Unadilla.
Amusing rants as I read through all the bench racing of who will represent. I think we can all agree that regardless of who represents team USA, our boys are going to deliver yet another victory, in dominating fashion. Can't recall Baggett's past performance(s) at Southwick, we all know Barcia is great in the sand. My gut says Barcia will take the MX 3 ride and Baggett on the MX2. The question is, what if Baggett's performance at Southwick turns out to be lackluster? Might shake up the whole deal. The key is being consistent and getting good starts. This season, all these guys have been consistent. Baggett less so on the starts, and his performance at the last MX of Nations wasn't all that good or consistent, at least compared to what he's done in the nationals this year. Not an Alessi fan, but he has been consistent and is a great starter. Is he going to go, probably not, he is deserving of it based on his results and consistency. Could he win, not likely, but he would at least deliver the results to help the team win, that's all that's required. No question Stewart, in terms of speed in the sand would be the best bet. Is he going to go, not likey since he's been to inconsistent (injured) during the season. Plus, you think when it comes to Team Suzuki (Stewart) or any Suzuki team(Alessi) Roger probably doesn't want to deal with that, having left Suzuki for KTM. Seems the decision will likley come down to who to put on the MX3 bike. Baggett is likely riding the MX3, whether Barcia wins the title or not on the 250's. That being said, the only real question is how will our guys compare to Herlings in the sand. Hard to see anything other than a team USA victory, but it's the individual battles in this fight that I can't wait to see. While team USA will surely bring home the goods, will Herlings be able to lay it down on Dungey/Baggett/Barcia or whoever represents. If our best is going against the best in the sand, anxious to see how they all stack up. Looking forward to the "Olympics" of motocross!
The problem in sending Stewart isn't a matter of speed, its a matter of consistency. The guy crashes so much its ridiculous. Each country only gets to scratch ONE result. If Stewart crashes out of the first moto, then there's a good chance he won't line up for the second. I'd rather take someone with a little less speed and a lot more control. Besides, its the euros. The only real threats for the title (besides the US) is France and Belgium. We don't need the fastest riders to win, we need the most consistent.
oops, in that long rant, I meant Baggett will likley be riding MX2 (250's), not MX3
I know the JS haters love the fact that he may not go, but i'm sorry, "THE MAN" needs to get over whatever stupid ass personal problem he has with James, i'm not a conspiracy theorist, i'm not a JS fanatic, i just think that it is blatantly obvious that Mr. "THE MAN" DeCoster has some sort of problem with James. Maybe it's that JS has usually been the guy (when he is out there) to stop his riders from getting titles through the years!! That and the fact that until JS screwed up and got hurt this year, he was once again besting "THE MAN'S" top rider!! I respect the guy for all he's done and how he runs his teams and all that, ya ya ya, i really do!! But not really even considering James is bullshit and i think "THE MAN" needs to sack up and just tell the truth about how he feels......C'mon Rog "THE MAN" DeCoster!!!! Let's hear it!!!
...oh and "chowderballs", i would gladly stomp your face, punk!!!
@Welker- what is up? You know that MD 20/20 makes for a well oiled machine.
As for the des nation, we have so many talented riders. We are lucky to have a deep pool to draw from. We also have a few personal issues that will take place.So what is that old saying, "principles before personalities". So hopefully the team will be based on performance and not popularity!
Oh ya, how many new names is gayairtime going to come up with?
please dont send alessi. he finishes 30 to 45 sec. off rd and thats when he gets a good start.
rd
js
jb
Ok @ CZMark, WE will have a "C" Team and do it like the 70''s ya know what I mean? Ya we have a smoke before the first Moto and then drink a beer betwen moto's like Joel Roberts did then go beat everyone by 45 seconds ,stop just befor the finish line and wait for them to catch up then push the bike accross the finish. Hey Karsmakers did that then they had the new rule to keep out the euoropean's (sp) Then well we know thae rest of the story. Gee I stil remember the guys smoking before the rubber band start. Yes I hatted those snow fenses, aimed at MR-MX.....
I am patriotic a fair sportsman and love this sport. To me the ones who have earned the chance to race for th USA are the ones who can and have won consistantly and under pressure and have a good reputation both on and off the track.
Clearly RD is qualified and has earned the spot.
I want to see how BB and JB fare in southwick, both of these guys have earned the spot. and some ride sand better than others. BB kind of gets the nod but really didn't do that great over there last year.
If RV is good and wants to go and does well at a couple of races its a no brainer- he has won more over there than RD and they work well together and would give each other confidence. Also RV handles pressure as well as RC ever did.
JS will always have our respect as among the elite speed wise and has the heart to do it but the last three years have proven he struggles with focus and would be a huge worry about going down.
Eli tomac is the next best option and a good one
this leaves RD, RV, BB, JB, and ET as our best guys to choose from. Three from this group can and will win for us.
I would send JS before even considering MA if thre of the above group cannot go.
Dungey- without question
Baggett- the fastest 250 rider, has expereince at MXdN (bad expereince can provide the most motivation)
Barcia- Has been consistent, rips on a 450 and is good in sand.
JS- Very fast but unreliable
RV- been off the bike too long
MA- I cant believe he is in the conversation
BillC 50% is a conservative number
Send Allessi
Get Genova to put some yellow on the bike to get some team suspension.
JimM
Pala374
I wonder if Chad Reed could be considered for Team USA now that he is an American citizen. Lol. Just thought I'd add some fuel to an already raging fire. Ha ha.
Agree Cz. Alessi looks like he's grown up from watching his interviews this year. If only ...... indeed!
RD, RV, JB = #1
RD, BB, JB = #1
RD, RV, BB= #1
@Welker- that is the best thing I have heard yet, the "C Team". Lets make it old school with a Le Manns start.
I've read some good arguments and some assinine ones. Allow yourself a chance to see it from a different view.
Why in the world should JS go represent the U.S.A. which, is a PRIVELEDGE when he doesn't even show up at the races he's supposed to be racing for a championship here? Is the answer- because he's not getting paid to? Well, he's not getting paid for MXdN either. Maybe he should go home until he's ready to represent his latest benefactor to his fullest capacity.....in the 2013 SX series. His employer would appreciate it and so would his fans..........even the people that don't care for him would appreciate seeing him fit and focused for a full SX season........and if he wads in Lommel, which is a serious reality, you can kiss SX season goodbye.
RV has not only missed the entire MX season (which should eliminate him from consideration on principle) but, is coming back from injury. Furthermore, he has no contract signed as of now so, who exactly is going to commit funds / resources to his MXdN campaign? Do you think Kawi wants to spend a dollar to send him if he signs with Honda? (because he would still be under Kawi contract as of September 30)?
JS & RV fans obviously have reasons for putting their boys in the race. Anybody looking at the situation objectively sees things differently.
Whoever posted "why don't they just say the truth" made me laugh for a moment there. Why in the world would they do something like that????
Weege & Matthes had great points before they went retard on us. I've been waiting for this article. It's going to get heated.
Lots of interesting opinions, and after pondering this more I think I've changed my mind a bit. Obviously, this is all just wish-listing, since DeCoster will do what he wants.
I don't think it is about who has "earned it" based on the entire MX season. It is about fielding the best team for the given race and conditions. The riders that are racing at the time of team selection, and giving weight to sand tracks, should be judged on their speed and fitness. Eliminating any of the top riders for any other reason -- bike brand, presumed propensity to crash -- is unwise. All of them go down from time to time, and when they're unlucky get hurt.
My crystal ball says: RD, JS, JB. If JS is still too slow or unfit, then probably BB, or maybe even ET. I'm leaning more toward JB over BB because of his more consistent starts and sand skills. I agree with the others about Alessi, unless his times are faster then the 250 guys the next few races. And unless RV is back to racing, he's off the table. The clock at Southwick should be a big factor.
Frankly, I like all the top riders right now and will be looking forward to MXoN no matter which ones end up on the team.
Mike Alessi HAS EARNED his spot on the team. He is clearly faster than ALL the other riders except dungey in the US outdoor series. By the rules of past years this gives him the spot. All you dumbass barcia ball lickers need to back the f\/ck off with insisting that bam bam replace alessi due to blah blha blah blah.....
Alessi will knock out every holeshot and get us what we need... a top 5 spot in every race.
Maniac- the fact about barcia is he is faster than MA by a good bit, remember last year his first time racing on 450 he left MA in the dust and every race after that. If you think RV wont be faster than MA in two months you are out to lunch. Barcia has won more in 2 years than MA has in 8.
Does reputation not matter to you in representing the US?- MA's stinks and has for 7 years, he will cheat and ride dirty at the drop of a hat, in fact he was fined for cheating just this year. He is not a rooky and to earn the right to represent the USA he needs to be of good charactor and be the best FINISHER we can send, he is neither.
RD#5 is 100% if healthy.
RV#2 also if he is back.
Bagget:
Pros:
1. Mitch want a rider.
2. Unreal right now.
Cons:
1. Cant start
2. Sucked last MXdN
Alessi:
Pros:
1. Awesome starter
2. Pretty stabile (better him 3:rd than JS on the ground...)
Cons:
1. No factory team
2. Not fast enough?
Stewart
Pros:
1. Awesomest rider ever, at least he was...
2. Rules on sand
Cons:
1. Little unstable
2. Has no good history @ MXdN
Barcia
Pros:
1. Awesome starter
2. Blazing sand rider
Cons:
1. None!
This is such a great subject. I am uber excited for MXON, as always. I think that no matter who we send, there is one certain Italian who has some unfinished business to take care of at the race this year, Antonio Cairolli. He has to be bumping the rev limiter with motivation to show the world just how long his throttle cable really is. Dungey and whoever we send will have their hands full with AC222 and a youngster in the form of Jeffery Herlings, but who has a complete team that will match our team as a whole? Thats a good question. Luck will play a factor there.
Wouldn't it be sweet to send our top prospect, (If RV1 wasn't injured his name would be here....), RD5 with a couple of our own youngsters like BamBam and the good hearted and hard charging Eli Tomac? Tomac is bread to be a champion and I believe a tour at MXON would do him and USA justice. I believe in this kid and I think those who read this do as well. Baggett is fast, real fast, but I think that I can count on Tomac a little more. Wait.... what about BamBam, Tomac and Baggett?! A whole team of kick a$$ rookies!
A healed and ready RV1, JS7 and RD5 is the USA dream team for MXON. Put RV1 on the tiddler because who remembers the damage that man can do on a little 4 banger? I think Herlings and AC222 would have a big issue on thier hands with him around.
Oh the sand at Lommel! Its going to be so much fun to watch. Team USA is in good hands with Mr. Decoster and always has been. He has made a career of good decisions in our industry and every program he touch's turns to gold. We can second guess him all we want but, be it understood that he will make the right decision.
Its seems that Barcia has a better rep in the sand which gives him an edge. Bagget will do better this year if he goes. Both of these guys are awesome. We don't have to decide for a month and it will be very interesting to see what shakes out. To see the speed, affection and comaradory between RV and RD last year makes them the most solid fit for the big guns and either ET,BB,and JB would be great 250 guys. If RV rides well and feels good a month from now I know RD would request him for a teammate.
BillC LOL i was waiting for it!! i just can't wait for the race nobody knows what the outcome will be. Herlings will surprise a lot of people. (Americans)
He is no ordinary sand rider we he was 4 - 5 seconds a lap faster than the likes of Antonio Cairoli, Clement DeSalle, and Christophe Pourcel.
how's barcia gonna win with all those tears in his eyes cuz the internationals aren't getting out of his way?!! representative for the sport? he needs a couple of years gone from his b i t c h fest before i'll believe he's man enough to represent the country. let's face it, there are 5 or six guys the U.S could send that would smack down the rest of the world. No one has even mentioned Andrew Short. He's won one already and is getting faster . or more fast. or more better faster . whatever.
We could send 3 teams and one would win and one of the others podium.
Team USA - Dungey, Bagget, Barcia
Team US Virgin Islands - RC, Brown, Dowd
Team Guam - Stewart, Tomac Short
@mxtim723, The individual classes are decided like you are saying,but the overall winning team is decided by combined overall moto scores (not by class) .dropping the worst one.whoever has the fewest points wins.
wow, this thread is full of faces that need stomping.
RD is the man, an when he picks the riders you all better just suck on it and cheer for America.
Pick 'em RD, how you want it.
Weege, Matthes and DC's opinions amount to less than a fermented, corny crap under the grandstands at Hangtown. The idiots commenting here mean even less.
Nah.... Alessi has EARNED the right to represent the USA by the rules of selection. Will he cheat? Doubtful at this race....
Factory team? Your telling me Zook wont step up and furnish some help after the way he rode the nationals this year? year right.
Holeshot ---- Every damned race.
Top five finish in each race... more than likley.
They did this to Mike Brown back in 05 i think when he was on a privateer honda in the 250 class..... stripped him of the privledge due to his results.... he had no factory support.... either. But his results cost him the trip.... Alessi has had solid results...... stop making excuses as to why he shouldn't be chosen.
BTW.... im not an Alessi fan at all and honestly think hes a b!tch for that sh!t he pulled on Tedesco in 05...... but the man has earned his spot on the team.
Sand races are won by riders who attack and are in shape. Bagget is that guy. He blew by Barcia in the sand section at Millvile like he was on another level.
Iron Mike has earned it. 800 is my choice.
DC is on the list of who will be asked thier MXON opinion. Than again so is someone from AMA,wonder if they will pick someone,then take it away,then try to save face by giving it back again?
Look at DeCosters rep at the olympics of MX. Do you really think he (and the commitee) wont make the best choice for USA???
I think Roger is too professional to let team USA's chances suffer because of past employment practices.
Team Yamaha and Honda have tested suspension at Keithsburg,Il.
Take 5,12,20 there for training camp
RD104.
Chowderhead wrote "Pick 'em RD, how you want it.", I guessing he means Dungey!
Kind of funny that most people sending in comments probably weren't born when team USA won there first des nation which was actually two separate weekends on two different size bikes. The first weekend was called the trophy des nations and was on 250s and at that time Johnny O hadn't ridden a 250 very many times. The next week the des nation race was run on 500s which Johnny O had never ridden before and only had one and let me say that again one week to get used to a 500 to race in the biggest race of the year. So saying Barcia who has ridden 450s many times wouldn't be a good choice is ridiculous. As far as Alessi beating Dung a moto sure he did but he blocked him the entire moto and just about every other moto this year Dung won by like what 25 seconds every moto. Mike is a great guy but we need someone who can run with Dungey not see him way off in the distance and if Stewart comes out at southwick runs with Dungey and keeps on him the entire race whether he beats him or not then he is who we need. To win we need the best and fasted guys.
This is WILD, Roger must be upset that JS7 puts a foot up Roger's rider Azz when they race. When has Dungey ever bet JS7 outdoors, while JS7 has been healthy?
What does Roger have against JS7? Hater?
This will only piss JS7 off when he finds out about how Roger fells about him on the MXd team! If JS7 stays healthy Dungey WILL NOT WIN ANYMORE RACES THIS YEAR!
AN AZZ KICKIN IS ON THE WAY ROG, YOU HAVE PUT OUT THE WRONG THING NOW!
The ONLY, way Dungey will BEAT JS7 is if he crashes, Dungey has never bet JS7 straight up, and NEVER will!
I do believe JS7 won the first four moto's this year 2012, AFTER being away from racing outdoors for three years and Dungey had been racing.
JS7 bet Dungey on a new bike! Dungey raced his new bike all year, so he had more time to adjust to his bike.
P.S. I think it is stupid and hate that readers bring up writting grammer errors, like it really mean SH_T in a MX blog. Simple Biatches!!!!!!
I think DeCoster's hesitance to include Stewart is based on several reasons.
1) DeCoster's knowledge of racers goes far beyond what we casual fans know. RD has reason to not want JS on the team and that speaks volumes. Even to know-nothings like us, that has to mean something.
2) His win vs crash record raises too many "if" scenarios.
3) He has turned down Team U.S.A. more than once. A deal killer IMO, probably DeCoster's too.
4) Suzuki's financial situation raises a lot of questions. They are on shaky ground to put it lightly. A) a financial commitment from them is not a "done deal". B) Suzuki has so many new hires and unproven people in positions of relevance that stability and experience in those positions is of concern as well.
5) DeCoster could satisfy 3/5ths of the manufacturers with the "popular vote" picks of Dungey, Baggett & Barcia. Honda, Kawasaki & KTM can and will spend the money to represent. Yamaha doesn't have a representitive worthy and Suzuki is financially destitute.
These are all pretty common knowledge-type things. There are more behind-the-scenes issues that exacerbate the situation and only make Stewart's case worse.
IF, IF, IF Stewart goes, I will eat my words but, I don't see it happening. The one thing that might make it a possibility is Red Bull pulling DeCoster's strings.
starplaya4life, I am a fan of the sport more than of individual riders, and have sponsered Sean Hackley and am a personal friend of many racers. I am really looking forward to the season finish and MXON. I also ride and race in amature events and attend and watch every pro race I can. My thoughts on JS are as follows. . . .
1st if he raced the final four races without wrecking this year, and was as fast as normal He would be a good choice for the team
2nd I have been VERY worried about him for the past three years and have spoken with his dad several times about his ability to keep 100% focused in a race. He has gone down by himself more times than he has stayed up by 2/3rds over the past three years. Normally as riders mature this gets better and not worse. Going with his current record he has a 66% chance of wrecking if he represents us at MXON. This makes him a VERY risky bet for our team.
3rd while he is clearly as fast and tallanted as anyone in the world- by facts and stats (finishes) he is a 5th place or worse racer.
4th every race that riders finished ahead of him he was beaten straight up, wrecks are part of racing and 95% of his are self induced.
5th he tried to race two races ago and overalled 5th and we do not know if he is well yet.
6th There is hate for JS out thare and this repulses me but we want the best team we can get to race for us and at this point JS and RV are clear choices that are unknown. In my opionion RV,RD,BB,JB,ET, are clearly winning a lot more than JS for the last 3 years.
7.) The ONLY thing that matters is how you finish the race, not how fast you could be if you didn't wreck.
I believe JS would beat RD almost every time if he didn't wreck but thats not the case for the last 3 years. RD has dominated him consistantly for three years because JS could not stay on 2 wheels. I would be very glad if JS could stop this trend and have many more great seasons.
@ starplaya4life,
You wrote: "JS7 bet Dungey on a new bike! Dungey raced his new bike all year, so he had more time to adjust to his bike".............I disagree.
Stewart's "new bike" is the 2012 RM450Z that has been on a development cycle since 2005. Riders like GOAT, Reed, Dungey, Tedesco, Metcalfe and Alessi have tested, developed and refined this package over the last seven years with the help of names like DeCoster, Goselaar (multi-time golden wrench recipient) and Ian Harrison (World & National Championship winning mechanic & engine development / tuning genius).
Stewart rode ALL 2012's when deciding which direction he would take and settled on the RMZ before he signed with JGR so, he has time & laps on the RMZ before Dungey ever saw his new bike. Furthermore, Stewart is notoriously poor at testing / development and more than likely is taking bike settings from the previous seven years of notes built on the foundation of GOAT, Reed & Dungey......all championship winning bikes.
Dungey's new bike was developed for him to have a F.I. bike to campaign and was literally made available in the winter of 2011. The KTM has seven MONTHS of testing versus seven YEARS for the RMZ. The RMZ has seven years of notes on all 12 national tracks whereas KTM has none.
Please don't take offense, It's just that I've seen that posted before and I just don't see the logic in it.
@davidl: extremely well put, and I second most of that. I do think your 66% chance of wrecking number is too high though. I wouldn't put it much higher than any other rider for a single race.
It is hard to say how much the Yamaha had to do with the past few years of JS's crashes. I had hopes getting on the Suzuki would change that. It may actually have; but with the partly freak crash in Colorado, and having to skip training and races, it seems too early to tell. Up through Freestone he looked so damn comfortable and fast. Lately, not so much.
We will see at Southwick, etc., and next year.
As for the MXoN -- as much as I would love to see him race it, I doubt it is going to happen. Even if he is back on it at Southwick, I think the reasons @carlsbad notes above will keep it from happening.
WOW! davidl, I applaud the objectivity.
Hard to argue facts but nevertheless, someone will.
You'll probably be called a hater or racist anyway.
@carlsbad: I doubt anyone will label davidl a racist or hater for what he wrote. There certainly are a handful here who earn (over and over) those labels.
@ all
You know the old saying " Figures don't lie, but liars figure" There are a lot of ways to spin this may help you just play with the tools and you can really come up with numbers and percentages...Enjoy the conversations.Mr- MX
http://www.vrmweb.com/racers.asp
Interesting set of stats, @Mr-MX. A lot of useful info, but some serious flaws that fit the "truth, lies, and statistics" adage. For instance: using overall scores in MX rather than per moto started. A rider that qualifies, then is injured in the 1st moto and doesn't even start the 2nd, has their average hammered by the 40th place in moto 2.
I agree that crashing, and how it impacts results, is part of racing. But these stats don't necessarily fairly reflect that. A rider like Reed or Villopoto that suffers a season ending crash does not have their stats significantly harmed, whereas a rider nagged by injury, but riding more regulary (JS), suffers by that statistical method.
The best thing is to get hurt in practice (RD), then no dink in the stats!
I first LOVE all the Euros talking about how Herlings will beat all the Americans.. Just like Pourcel, and Searle and Rattrey, and Roczen, and a host of other Euros.. Herling is barely beating Searle right now in the points, and Searle did absolutely nothing here..
Secondly, Decoster has sent Stewart to the Des Nations once before when Stewart actually agreed to go.. and he didnt do very well in the high pressure race. After that, he turned down other offers to go.. Now he sees his fan base dropping, and he wants to go all outdoors all of a sudden and keeps throwing his name in the Des Nations hat... Roger tried it with him once, he didnt win his moto, and didnt do that great. I think Barcia is a better choice because he has been racing all year, and is healthy. Stewart flies in the sand, and NO he is not the fastest in the sand ever. I saw RC smoke Stewart by 30 seconds at Southwick, and saw Grant Langston run Stewart down and pass him there , so Stewart is NOWHERTE near the fastest ever in the sand, not close. But he is fast, but Barcia is healthy and has been running all year, and kills in the sand also..
@starplaya4life
That is not true. Dungey went 1-1 against Stewart at Unadilla in 2010. Stewart raced the first moto and finished third behind Dungey and Clement DeSalle. Stewart quit in the middle of the second moto.
@therealmofo: "Decoster has sent Stewart to the Des Nations once before when Stewart actually agreed to go.. and he didnt do very well in the high pressure race."
Stewart raced MXoN twice, in 2006 and 2008: 2006, two 2nd place finishes (behind Everts). 2008 one 1st place and then, while running 1st unable to re-start bike after a recoverable crash. Both year the team won it.
He certainly didn't go 1-1, 1-1 -- but I wouldn't say that "he didn't do very well."
http://www.dirtrider.com/features/race-reports/141_0609_2006_motocross_of_nations/
http://motocross.transworld.net/1000072667/features/race-report-2008-motocross-of-nations/
Mr Mx, I took one look at the website and my head hurt. I'll check it out when I feel like doing stats...........today not being that day.
I don't remember the exact numbers but, I do remember Everts had his way with Stewart that year (2008?). It really doesn't reflect that poorly on JS as Everts was having his farewell ride and it was one for the books.......a fitting end for the King of europe.
I'm VERY bummed about Herlings' accident because there will always be that "what if" about the end results..................broken / cracked ribs hurt, most of us know this first-hand.
I do not underestimate Herlings at all. I believe it's his home track and he has every motivation to hand out an azz whooping. He may very well hold individual honors at the end of the day..........if only he had a couple of teammates worth mentioning........but, don't ALL dutchmen ride sand well???
I'd like to hear from euromike about the race but, I have a feeling we either hear "over the top" euromike or not at all. Roczen's year thus far probably being a little humbling (although I don't know why, He's actually doing awesome for a first year euro). Maybe K-Roc's dad taking him home for the break will reset the computer and we'll see a re-energized K-Roc for Southwick and beyond.
Jesus H Christ....yeah, that's from the movie Jaws. probably before most of you here were born. Call me an old fart...I'll be 50 in a year. I have a 4-stroke 450...sits in the garage because I have more fun riding my 2 strokes and maintenance is a fraction of the cost!!! I lived through the golden era of this sport, Euro's-M.Smith, Glover, Hannah, O'Mara, Bailey, Ward and many more. I have also been to every MXoN held in the USA of A!
I like James Stewart, talked to him at the Colorado Ntnl. before he bailed. Lets let him heal up, besides his performances at the MXoN are nothing to write home about. It was Tim Ferry who saved team USA in the UK that year when JS stalled. I also like RV and will NEVER forget him setting faster lap times than RC4 in 2007!!! But let him come back when he is ready.
With RD5, Bam-Bam and Blake, we have an awesome team. Sure Blake didn't do so well last year, but he is riding awesome and now has experience. Bam-Bam will kill em and Dungey is so consistent we will take the Chamberlin Trophy!!!!
Now, about Alessi (and I think he is an OK guy). He NEVER got along w/DeCoster. Strike 1. He's not at the level we need, strike 2. He rides a Suzuki, strike 3. I love Suzuki's, have a cherry 81 RM 125 in my garage-1st year full floater, and H2O cooled for you youngsters out there-but come on, DeCoster and Robert made Suzuki back in the day. For Suzuki to diss Roger like they did....I lost a lot of respect for them. You don't let a "Roger DeCoster" walk away. So screw Suzuki!
The other thing I don't get is....a few short years ago, EVERYBODY in the MX community hated on Alessi-remember when he was on KTM??? Now everybody loves him, WHF???? What is up with the Alessi ass kissing??? Again, I have nothing against him....but remember his fight at Glen Helen w/the PC guys??? Everybody was hating on him....now everybody loves him. Is it the JT gear?
And why does everybody hate the Europeans? Yeah we should whip their asses, what is our population over 250 million?? Belgium has 10 million, Finland 3-4 mil, Sweden 8 mil. we outnumber them like crazy! But come on, the Euro's gave us Motocross so lets at least show them some respect.
I lived in Europe for over 5 years....I bet many of you couldn't last 5 weeks without being homesick. But that's OK, just don't diss our brothers over there OK.
Allright, I'm getting off my soap box. All you kids out there in in motoland can rag on me now and say what you want, I'm finished. I'm going riding tomorrow, are you?
I think Roger should find the deepest sand track in the US, take all the contestants (JS, MA, JB, RV. The Dunge is a shoe in, in my opinion), sort of as a ''try out'' but keep it sort of under the radar, and see who is the best sand rider out those guys. Then obviously take who wins the 250 title. This idea sounds good in my head, but that may be why I don't lead team U.S.A to victory year after year.
On to my team U.S.A picks. Please bare in mind I'm Canadian..
MX1/MX3 RD and (only if he and DeCoster think he is 100% ready) RV, I'm not sure if this is biased because RV is the guy I normally root for, but here are my reason(s): MXdN puts a lot of pressure on everybody, let alone being in a ''must win'' situation and I feel like MA and JS aren't as mentally strong as RV. So if MA or JS are put into a ''must win'' situation they may come unravelled, not saying they will, but I feel they have a higher chance then RV.Like I said I would only pick RV if he and Roger feel he is 100% ready to battle tooth and nail for his country.
MX2 Who ever wins the title, but I feel you can't go wrong with Barcia or Baggett on a 250f, they've shown the consistency and the speed. Tomac, needs to figure out his starts a little more, but who am I to judge?
Once again, this all sounds good in my head and could be the reason I don't lead team U.S.A to victory year after year. I'm Roger will make the right decision for you Americans and I hope Canada can get top 10! Remember, this is all MY personal opinion.
carlsbad, You have good points, but the bike is still new to JS7 in race situations. I do believe that the years JS7 turned down the MXoD was because he was on a supercross only contract and L&M might not had wanted to do what it would have taken to send JS7.
mxtim723, JS7 came off of the couch to race on his SX set up or very little testing and got third and we know that wasn't gonna work. (again L&M sx only). But still a damn good performance for third.
davidl I respect what you wrote, your cool with me. You have some good points.
This has been one of the best blogs that I has been apart of without the stupid stuff, just right to the point facts or personal feels! Great stuff guys!!
Mr-Mx, we had a kid named Dave Weeks out of Omaha, Ne that was scrubbin way back in the early 80's. He ran the nationals, I think he had Num. 52 for Team LOP!
I've heard RV is going YELLOW! JS7 & RV
You guys notice how most of the guys on here have turned out to be pretty cool ? We all have our favorites and we are all dying to see the MXON team be chosen and the silly season dust settle, whos is the 250 champ going to be and getting ready for probably the best season yet in 2013 !!! then thers MEC so still some awesome stuff for this year.
starplay - nuf said on JS, the guy just reeks with talant and heart. If he can keep his focus RV, RD, CR, JB, DW, TC, will have all they can handle to just hang with him. I hope to God he hasn't had to many concussions and can turn things around. I was excited to see him put down 4 motos in a row without going down- that was the first time in 3 years hes done that. I hope he rides Southwick and just lets the ride flow and takes things one moto at a time.
I classify Bubbles and Alessi on the same level. They are head-cases and have moto-family issues. Take them over seas in an environment they aren't used to. Alessi has been consistent this year but inconsistant throughout the years; not to mention he is a rookie of MXoN. Bubba has been inconsistant for years now and didn't exactly dominate during his big-bike Euro trip.
BARCIA BARCIA BARCIA
Stewart fans are living in 2007 still, he's not the same guy we was 5 years ago, move on folks, he's unreliable, inconsistent, and doesnt have the pseed to race with Alessi anymore. It will be suicide if we send James.
RD BB RV/JB (if RV wants to come back, if not send JB)