Going fast on Unadilla’s layout takes more thought than some tracks. The tricky traction creates opportunity for riders to draw unique lines to carry momentum. The “point and shoot” method doesn’t always work, especially late in a moto when traction is deteriorating. Creative riders will sweep across existing lines and use sections of the track not seen by the tunnel-visioned masses. That road-less-traveled approach will give a bump in traction and also allow for missing the big braking bumps. Mostly, Unadilla allows for a more road racing type attack. Flowing lines that avoid momentum disruption are the name of the game. The trick is being able to see the unconventional lines amongst the chaos and execute them at speed.

Tire choice will be a topic at Unadilla (shocker). The scoop tire is the rider favorite for most tracks because of the start advantage and straight-line acceleration edge it provides. It’s not without drawback, though, as slippery sections are escalated by the lesser edge grip. If Unadilla is a drier, harder version this year, watch for riders to be divided on tire choice in the second motos. If you don’t believe you will get a good start in any scenario, the aggressive but traditional tread pattern is likely the best move. For those thinking holeshot, scoop might be the compromise they choose.

Who’s Hot

Haiden Deegan got back to his early season form, wearing Jo Shimoda down and finishing in the way that Deegan knows how. Ironman was a statement ride after several weeks of healing.

Jo Shimoda may have relented to Deegs in both motos but he is by far the second best guy. His level all year (going back to A1) has been notable. He will be a title fav in 2026.

Tom Vialle is MXGP bound for 2026 but he didn’t show any signs of quit at Ironman. He was a touch off the top two, but he was also far ahead of everyone else. His fight in brutally hot conditions was a sight for sore eyes.

Garrett Marchbanks fought through bad starts (insert this sentence anywhere this summer) to climb the leader board. The best news is that it sounds like he was able to get a deal done with Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki to return next year and beyond.

Parker Ross might not be a household name but that might change in 2026. The kid is fit, fast, and improving. I’m a fan.

Hunter Lawrence finally got that first win and although it was a wild route to victory, this felt overdue. Hunter has been relentless in his path forward and it finally paid off bigly.

Jett Lawrence was embroiled in a headline he likely never expected. The AMA ruling will long be argued over but let’s not forget how great he rode the second moto. I don’t think he will be doing the AMA any favors moving forward but I can’t even describe how angry I would be if I were him and that cost me $100,000+.

Chase Sexton’s first moto was impressive, to say the least. His ability to fight off Jett and go get Hunter was the stuff everyone knows he has inside but doesn’t always show. The second moto meltdown was likely not his fault and drove a deeper rift between he and Red Bull KTM.

Dylan Ferrandis returned and put in respectable results. His fight from a first turn crash in moto two bodes well for him entering his best track of ‘Dilla.

Ken Roczen is back for Unadilla! This event feels like the right one for the German. Temps will be a little more mellow and this track works for his style. Any race is better with #94 in it.

Who’s Not

Pierce Brown made his return at Ironman and was not greeted politely. His big crash in moto two had everyone holding their breath that he wouldn’t suffer a serious setback.

Dilan Schwartz didn’t find any luck at all in Indiana. He had been on the rise but will need to turn the page in New York and return to form.

Levi Kitchen has been a curious story this year. I felt he was turning a corner in early July, but that form has regressed since. I think starts are a huge part of this story but he’s good enough to overcome a bad start when all systems are go. These results tell me they are not.

Aaron Plessinger will miss the remainder of Pro Motocross which is a bummer on all levels.