AMA Pro Racing to Study Supercross Track Design
PICKERINGTON, Ohio (January 13, 2006) – AMA Pro Racing announced
today that it is reviewing the current Supercross track design and
construction process. The review is in response to concerns noted by
AMA Pro Racing officials and riders regarding the current state of
track design.
In making the announcement AMA Pro Racing Supercross/Motocross Series
Manager Steve Whitelock identified a few reasons for the review.
“Ensuring that we’re paying close attention to the designs of our
tracks is something we always do but with virtually the entire field
now riding four-stroke equipment, it’s time we take another close look
at the process,” said Whitelock. “Four-stroke bikes deliver power
differently than two-strokes and we want to see if there’s anything we
need to change as a result of that. We also want to make sure that the
tracks are designed to ensure the best possible racing environment and
provide the greatest opportunity for close competition. Finally,
safety, as always, is an ongoing consideration.”
The shape, number and location of specific obstacles are specifically what Whitelock wants to review.
“We believe that Dirt Wurx (the company that designs all but one of the
tracks in the AMA Supercross Series) does a great job overall and is
responsive to the large amount of input they receive from us, riders,
the promoter and fans,” said Whitelock. “Our review process will be
done in harmony with their expertise and experience with track
construction.”
Whitelock noted that there is no single, easy answer. “Riders have
differing opinions on what makes a good track,” said Whitelock. “Some
desire highly technical tracks with many obstacles and tough whoops
sections. Others prefer faster, more flowing designs. The goal of
everybody, though, is to build tracks that are as safe as possible and
deliver great racing for the fans. That’s our objective as we proceed
with this process.”
Round two of the 2006 Amp’d Mobile AMA Supercross Series will be held
this Saturday at Chase Field in Phoenix, Ariz. Whitelock has already
begun meeting with key individuals as part of the review process and
will continue meetings this weekend.