RedBuddddd is the most popular round on the AMA Pro Motocross Championship calendar. The Fourth of July plays a big part in creating the most electric atmosphere of the summer. The riders love it, too, as RedBud’s track transformation has been nothing short of world class over the last 40 years. The once rock-hard clay has been slowly morphed into loamy, even sandy sections. The puddles on the first lap of motos have been replaced by endless traction. Having experienced both conditions from 1997-2012, the latter is much better and by a lot.
While the layout has changed some and the starting line has changed angles, the track itself is not all that different than it was in the last millennium. One of the main differences is in how to attack it. When it was harder and clay based, finesse and throttle control were key. This was also in the two-stroke era so finding traction and accelerating was a bit more tricky. Fast forward to modern day and RedBud rewards aggression. Not reckless abandon, mind you, because the RedBud ruts will penalize mistakes or overriding. Still, the deep loam forces riders to ride in the meat of the power.
Another key to going fast at RedBud is making smooth arcs in the corners. Mentioned above, RedBud will penalize mistakes in the corners. Regaining momentum is challenging as the dirt is deep and power-robbing. One continuous arc through the corners will maintain momentum and allow for higher speeds on the straightaways. The difference might feel small in the actual corner, but the time gained in the following section will become much more substantial. “Flow” as the pitboards often say, is key.
For those not racing and there for the RedBud experience, though, drink it in. This is the great American race and for good reason. Unless you’re still waiting to be pulled out of the mud from the 2018 Monster Energy FIM Motocross of Nations, there are very few that have ever pulled into RedBud Track N Trail and regretted it. Call your loved ones, maybe sign a waiver, and head out to Lot B for a few shenanigans.
Who’s Hot
Haiden Deegan put on a clinic at a venue where he once struggled to match his own expectations. He’s polishing his skill set as everyone waits for his collision course with the 450 class.
Levi Kitchen is now a podium mainstay and while winning was the goal, this isn’t a bad look. He could be the title favorite in 2026 both indoors and out.
Tom Vialle’s first moto was something special, but it took a toll on the two-time MX2 champ. I would like to see more fight and grit from Vialle at times but remaining on the podium each weekend works for now.
Michael Mosiman was the surprise of the weekend. I didn’t have him on my “sand” bingo card, but he was rock solid. Good for Mosiman, he’s been to Hell and back.
Jettson Lawrence put in his best performance of 2025. He was head and shoulders better than a stacked 450 class. This was the first time I saw peak Jett this year. Or was it even peak Jett? That’s the scariest part.
Hunta Lawrence continues to improve. His ability to continue raising his ceiling, year over year, is a beautiful thing to watch. Systematic, analytical, methodical. It’s not rocket science, this is simply putting a plan into action and relentlessly chasing the result.
Jorge Prado finally shot off a flare to signal he’s still in there somewhere. This wasn’t exactly what he wanted but it was a huge, huge step in the right direction. Now the question becomes, was it just the sand?
Who’s Not
JuJu Beaumer didn’t have a good day. I wouldn’t expect a breakout day at Southwick, to be fair, but he wasn’t really in contention at any point. He will be better, and I think top five at Washougal.
Jason Anderson was sick at Southwick and was unable to finish either moto.
Bold Predictions
Red Bull KTM and Monster Energy Kawasaki squeak a trade in just before the deadline. Jorge Prado goes orange, and Sexton makes the move to green. Terms are undisclosed.
Haiden Deegan takes a dig at brothers Lawrence sometime, somehow. I am so here for this rivalry, btw.
AP7 crowd surfs after a podium finish at America’s national.
My Picks
250
Haiden
Jo
Levi
450
Jett
Chase
Eli
