JULY 2013 - Dunlop Motorcycle Tires

JULY 2013
ON THE COVER: If you think progress is a good thing,
get a load of the Sportmax Q3, the next-generation
sportbike tire featuring Carbon Fiber Technology—
CFT—plus more race-tested Dunlop tire technology.
CONTENTS
FOR DUNLOP VIDEOS PLEASE VISIT
YOUTUBE.COM/DUNLOPTIRESCHANNEL
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DUNLOP MOTORCYCLE ANNOUNCES ADDITIONAL SOCIAL MEDIA CHANNELS
6
HARLEY-DAVIDSON CELEBRATES ITS 110TH ANNIVERSARY IN ROME
10
TEAM DUNLOP: MAKING THE GRADE
16
DUNLOP SPORTMAX Q3: HIGHER PERFORMANCE PLUS EXCELLENT VALUE
28
DON’T TAKE DUNLOP’S WORD FOR IT
32
KEVIN SCHWANTZ AT THE DUNLOP PROVING GROUNDS
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DUNLOP CLAIMS THREE SUPERCROSS TITLES IN 2013
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TEAM D RIDERS PREPARE FOR LORETTA LYNN’S
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INTRODUCING THE GEOMAX AT81/AT81 DESERT RC
52
MX UPDATE
66
GEICO MOTORCYCLE AMA PRO ROAD RACING: 2013 MID-SEASON REPORT
80
DUNLOP RIDERS SET LAP RECORD AND FASTEST RACE LAP TIMES AT BARBER
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DUNLOP PROVING GROUNDS: A ONE-OF-A-KIND FACILITY IN THE U.S.
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A LASTING RELATIONSHIP
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UPCOMING EVENTS
Dunlop Download magazine is published for Dunlop Motorcycle Tires by Vreeke & Associates. www.vreeke.com
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DUNLOP MOTORCYCLE
ANNOUNCES ADDITIONAL
SOCIAL MEDIA CHANNELS
Dunlop Motorcycle has expanded its social media outlets with
involvement in social media is a great opportunity to get to
a variety of additional ways for North American motorcycle
know our customers even better.”
riders to interact with the popular tire brand online.
Through its new social media channels, Dunlop will be able to
In addition to its Website (www.dunlopmotorcycle.com) and
interact with riders across North America while providing them
YouTube channel (www.youtube.com/dunloptireschannel) the
with a wide array of relevant, tire-related content and insider
company has added an integrated social media presence,
racing information. The Dunlop Twitter account, @RideDunlop,
which includes brand profiles on Twitter
provides an outlet for the company to share real-time updates
(www.twitter.com/RideDunlop) and Facebook
at events, along with the latest product news and
(www.facebook.com/RideDunlop).
announcements. The company will also share a variety of
news, photos and promotions on Facebook, and video
Dunlop’s expanded social media presence represents the tire
highlights of products and events will be frequently updated
maker’s increased commitment to interacting with riders in
on the Dunlop YouTube channel.
new and exciting ways.
To support this new effort, Dunlop has also added Chris
“As the largest supplier of original equipment and replacement
Wagers to its motorcycle tire marketing group as the
motorcycle tires in the U.S., riders across North America know
company’s interactive marketing specialist. Wagers will
the Dunlop name,” said Mike Manning, Dunlop’s general
oversee Dunlop's motorcycle social media platforms and
manager of marketing. “We interact with riders face-to-face at
online communications for North America.
races, rallies, shows and other events, so increasing our
"I'm very excited to join the Dunlop motorcycle team,” said
Wagers. “This industry is filled with passionate and dedicated
enthusiasts, and I look forward to interacting with our
customers through Dunlop’s new social media channels.”
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HARLEY-DAVIDSON CELEBRATES ITS 110TH ANNIVERSARY IN ROME
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Pope Francis blessed thousands of Harley-Davidson
motorcycles and riders to the celebratory roar of V-Twin
engines in Vatican City. Harley-Davidson fans from all over the
world took part in the pontiff’s Sunday ceremonies as part of
Harley-Davidson’s 110th Anniversary celebrations in Rome.
“Our promise to our customers is to offer them once-in-alifetime experiences that few other brands can fulfill,” said
Mark-Hans Richer, Chief Marketing Officer, Harley-Davidson
Motor Company. “Having our customers treated to the
blessing today fulfills that promise of epic adventures.”
The four-day anniversary celebration in Italy took place in
June, and drew to a close with a full program of music and
entertainment at the Port of Ostia, Rome. The event marked
the European leg of Harley-Davidson’s 110th Anniversary, a
year-long series of global celebrations spanning 11 countries
on six continents culminating in the company’s hometown of
Milwaukee during the last weekend in August.
As a sponsor of the Harley-Davidson 110th anniversary, Dunlop was a proud participant in the event in Rome.
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BLAKEBAGGETT
ELITOMAC
ASHLEYFIOLEK
JUSTINBARCIA
TEAM DUNLOP: MAKING THE GRADE
EVER WONDER WHAT HAPPENS TO THE TEAM DUNLOP
KIDS WHEN THEY GROW UP? WELL, A LOT OF THEM
GO ON TO MAKE THE GRADE IN THE PRO RANKS.
AMONG THEM ARE NUMEROUS NATIONAL CHAMPIONS,
AND EVERY YEAR THE LIST OF TEAM DUNLOP RIDERS
TO LAND A SEAT IN THE PROFESSIONAL RANKS
GROWS. HERE’S THE PRO REPORT CARD SO FAR.
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Max Anstie
(Currently racing World GP MX1)
Blake Baggett
Monster Pro Circuit Kawasaki—National Champion
Justin Barcia
Team Honda Muscle Milk—National Champion
Zach Bell
GEICO Honda
Justin Bogle
GEICO Honda
Jake Canada
Team Moto Concepts
Adam Cianciarulo
Monster Pro Circuit Kawasaki
Ashley Fiolek
Team Honda, retired—National Champion
Jacob Hayes
AG Motorsports
Justin Hill
Monster Pro Circuit Kawasaki
Jessy Nelson
Troy Lee Designs/Lucas Oil/Honda Team
Zach Osborne
GEICO Honda
Joey Savatgy
FMF/Orange Brigade/ KTM
Eli Tomac
GEICO Honda—National Champion
Cooper Webb
Star Racing Yamaha
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ADAMCIANCIARULO
ZACHOSBORNE
JUSTINBOGLE
JESSYNELSON
COOPERWEBB
JUSTINHILL
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JAKECANADA
ZACHBELL
JOEYSAVATGY
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DUNLOP
SPORTMAX
Q3:
HIGHER PERFORMANCE
PLUS EXCELLENT VALUE
The introduction of the Dunlop Sportmax® Q2® in 2009 set the
exclusive use at his STAR Motorcycle Riding Schools, which are
bar higher than ever for sportbike tires. This amazing tire
conducted at tracks all around the U.S. After experiencing how
immediately established an indisputable position as the
well the Q2 performed under such extreme sport conditions
sportbike tire of choice among riders in the know. Featuring a
Pridmore said, “I know Dunlop will make a better tire in the
racetrack-proven heritage second to none, the Sportmax Q2
coming years, but I honestly don’t know how it gets any better
cemented its credentials as a superior street-going tire that was
than the Q2 we now have.”
equally at home on the track. Publications such as Ultimate
Motorcycling and Sport Rider magazine chose the Sportmax
Well, meet the all-new Sportmax Q3, the next-generation
Q2 as the best tire in comprehensive sport tire shootouts. No
successor to the highly praised Sportmax Q2. And in response
less an authority than Dunlop-sponsored former AMA Road
to musings about how the Q2 could be bettered, consider this:
Racing champion Jason Pridmore quickly adopted this tire for
Not only does the Sportmax Q3 deliver next-generation
performance and incorporate Dunlop’s new Carbon Fiber
Technology (CFT), it also represents an outstanding value, which
makes it a winner twice over. Thanks to advances in the
efficiency of Dunlop’s manufacturing technology and processes
CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE Q3 VIDEO
in Buffalo, NY, the Sportmax Q3 will carry a manufacturer’s
suggested retail price identical to that of the Sportmax Q2. And
that’s great news for sportbike enthusiasts who ride hard and
also want to keep costs down as they rack up many pleasant
miles enjoying the full capabilities of their bikes.
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A PATTERN OF SUCCESS
The performance advantages with the Sportmax Q3 tie in directly to
the success Dunlop has earned with the Sportmax® D211™ GP-A in
AMA Pro Road Racing. Immediately obvious is the new tread pattern
on the Q3, which is a planned outgrowth of the tread pattern found on
the DOT-approved D211 GP-A race tire used in three classes of AMA
Pro Road Racing. However, there’s a neat bit of design brilliance that
makes the Sportmax Q3 tread pattern significantly superior for the
variable conditions encountered in street applications.
Specifically, this new tread pattern still utilizes Dunlop’s famous
cosecant curve, but this new rendition features fewer grooves that
are longer in length. So even though these tires look closer akin to a
GP-A or a racing slick than ever before, extensive track testing proves
that these extended-length grooves provide the key for greatly
enhanced wet-weather performance. These long grooves help route
water away more effectively from the contact patch, and this efficient
evacuation of water offers a gain in wet performance over the Q2.
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THE CARBON FIBER DIFFERENCE
The Sportmax Q3 delivers impressive performance in dry conditions.
And this performance has taken a step forward in the Q3 thanks to the
novel application of Dunlop’s new Carbon Fiber Technology (CFT), a
carbon fiber reinforcement element in the tire sidewalls. As many
people know, carbon fiber is a strong material composed mostly of
carbon atoms. These carbon atoms are bonded together in crystals
that are more or less aligned parallel to the long axis of the fiber, and
this alignment creates a high strength-to-volume ratio.
The many attributes of carbon fiber—high stiffness, high tensile
strength, low weight, high chemical resistance, high temperature
tolerance and low thermal expansion—make it a great match for
application in the Sportmax Q3. Extensive Dunlop testing shows that
the Sportmax Q3 exhibits exceptional cornering stability especially at
high lean angles, responsive and precise steering characteristics, and
predictable and smooth transitional-steering performance for more
confidence-inspiring handling.
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THE ROAD RACING ADVANTAGE
The new Sportmax Q3 represents yet another direct benefit yielded
from Dunlop’s AMA Pro Road Racing involvement. As the control tire
supplier for AMA Pro Road Racing, Dunlop invested in new tireproducing machinery necessary to accommodate race tire production
at Dunlop’s Buffalo, NY, manufacturing facility. These same high-tech
machines are used to produce the all-new Q3 rear tire.
INTUITIVE RESPONSE PROFILE
The new Sportmax Q3 is an extension of Dunlop’s highly successful
Intuitive Response Profile (IRP) design. In general, IRP tires offer
phenomenal steering and handling characteristics thanks to a taller
profile along with sides that taper in more aggressively. Crosssectional analysis reveals this design creates a larger contact patch
when cornering. Dunlop engineers closely evaluated the contact patch
pressure distribution—especially at full lean angles—to help produce
a tire capable of high lean angles and cornering speeds for great
sportbike performance.
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MT TECHNOLOGY
MT TECHNOLOGY
LATERAL-GRIP COMPOUND
LONG-WEARING COMPOUND
As with the Sportmax Q2 and many other Dunlop tires, the rear
Sportmax Q3 also incorporates MT Multi-Tread™ technology in
its design. All Dunlop tires with MT technology incorporate a
tough, cool-running long-wearing compound in the center of the
tread to provide enhanced straight-line stability and excellent
traction under acceleration, plus long tread life. On the left and
right sides of the tire face, lateral-grip compounds developed to
enhance traction at moderate-to-maximum lean angles flank the
longer-wearing center section.
LATERAL-GRIP COMPOUND
JOINTLESS BAND (JLB) ARAMID BELT
CONSTRUCTION
also add to cornering stability, responsive handling, precise
construction design, Dunlop engineers worked to optimize tire
steering and predictable transitional steering feel the rider gets
carcass construction in the front and rear Sportmax Q3 tires. The
from the tire while cornering. The rear Sportmax Q3 features a
core goals focused on maintaining a very consistent contact
continuously wound Jointless Band (JLB) for consistent tire
patch that resisted the increased power, braking forces and
diameter in all operating conditions.
NYLON CARCASS PLY
cornering loads generated by modern 600cc and 1000cc highperformance motorcycles. The cut-breaker radial construction
Built on new-tech machinery and incorporating bright-think
of the front Sportmax Q3 parallels that of previous Dunlop
designs plus cutting-edge materials, the next-generation
designs, with two nylon carcass plies and two aramid reinforcing
Sportmax Q3 is truly a worthy successor to the highly successful
belts for increased cornering stability and enhanced braking at
Sportmax Q2. Boasting new, elevated levels of performance in
high loads, plus a sport-oriented carcass stiffness to enhance
wet and dry conditions on the street as well as at the track,
steering response.
the Sportmax Q3 establishes an entirely new benchmark for
performance in sporting tires. However, the fact that
These constructions yield an optimum balance between a high
the Sportmax Q3 will have a manufacturer’s suggested retail
level of tire compliance for greater ride comfort and increased
price identical to the Sportmax Q2’s is truly stunning news. It all
carcass stiffness for enhanced tire stability and braking under
serves as a sparkling testimony of Dunlop’s commitment to
high loads. The improved carbon fiber-reinforced tire sidewalls
sportbike riders.
REAR TIRE CONSTRUCTION
Benefitting from the advancements made in Sportmax Q2
CARBON FIBER TECHNOLOGY
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AVAILABILITY
The Sportmax Q3 will be available in the U.S. in the
spring of 2013 and will be offered in these sizes:
FRONT
120/60ZR17
120/70ZR17
REAR
160/60ZR17
180/55ZR17
190/50ZR17
190/55ZR17
200/50ZR17
240/40ZR18
CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE Q3 WEB SITE
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DON’T TAKE
DUNLOP’S
WORD FOR IT
HERE’S WHAT THE MEDIA HAD TO SAY AFTER
ATTENDING THE SPORTMAX Q3 LAUNCH AT THE
DUNLOP PROVING GROUNDS.
Dunlop introduced the all-new Sportmax Q3 with Carbon Fiber
Technology to the motorcycle media at its Dunlop Proving
Grounds in Huntsville, AL, in early June. After two days of riding
on the test track, including the opportunity to test the new Q3 on
Dunlop’s wet-test track, the editors were not shy about their
praise for the new Sportmax Q3. Here’s a few quotes from their
reviews. You can also watch this video to hear what they had to
say.
CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE VIDEO
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it was as if I could have
“Even in the almost-360-degree final turn,
ridden by itself.”
let go of the bars and the bike would have
“I was really hammering the rear tire, but it just held its own
and kept the bike moving forward without any real squatting
or moving around. You will be surprised at how much the
slightly altered rear-tire profile of the new Q3 has to do
with how your bike will enter and exit a corner.”
“Sharper and quicker handling, with bette
r stability under
braking and acceleration, the Q3 offers up
a smoother and
more compliant ride. Out of the tight corne
rs you can really
give it the berries and the bike will go forward
as planned. It is
that much easier to steer the bike with the rear
wheel through
the last part of the corner by using the throttle.”
the high-speed section; again the feedback was
exceptional with very little movement or deflection. ”
the new Q3 is the same as the older Q2.”
—CYCLE NEWS
“Riding hard on the street, you appreciate that the Q3 still has the
Dunlop feedback we expect—there simply isn’t a street tire out
there that has more feel.”
“… we can say from our day spent on the new Q3 that Dunlop has raised
intended apex with impressive precision
and neutrality. Even edge grip with the Q3
was slightly improved, and the Q3’s slides
the bar once again. The competition has some serious work to do.”
seemed smoother and more controlled”
“In the Sportmax Q2, Dunlop already had a winne
of improving the proven winner … blending eleme
r … so they set about the unenviable task
nts from the Q2 and GP-A tires to produce
the Q3, a tire which significantly raises the
sport tire bar with greater corner stability,
more precise control, improved ride quality
and surprising wet weather performance.”
“The Q3 balances the bike better and maint
ains its
structure even in extreme conditions; and in the
wet, the
grip is phenomenal.”
—ULTIMATE MOTORCYCLING
“You’d be hard pressed to find a tire that offers a better
compromise between that solid race-tire feel and everyday
comfort over chop and rough pavement.”
ycle
“… the bottom line is the tires will let you put the motorc
have
anywhere on the track with laser-like precision. You just
there.”
arrive
will
it
quickly
to get your brain acclimated to how
“Dunlop’s latest Sportmax gives more authentic track-grade
performance than any other street tire we know of.”
“Outright grip continues to be astounding for a street tire.”
“… if you’re seeking a versatile high-performance sport tire, the Q3 is it.”
—MOTORCYCLEUSA.COM
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“The Q3 is a win
ner.”
—SUPERBIKEPLANET.COM
“I did, however, feel a stability improvement
“… the Dunlop’s warm up so quickly that it’s easy
to pick up
the pace by the second lap or after a few minutes of
riding.”
“… the Q3 would simply slam to full lean
immediately carve toward your
and
—SPORTRIDER.COM
“The new Sportmax Q3 has all the makings for a proper
street/track-day tire and the introduction of carbon fiber into the
design is the real game changer. Even better is that the price for
“I also found the new Q3 front to work very well in
“The biggest advantage with the new Q3 is stabi
lity … the Q3
is noticeably more stable under hard braki
ng … that also
translated to easier steering under trail brakin
g into the corner.”
under hard straight-line braking and during trail-b
raking into turns.”
—CYCLEWORLD.COM
“It’s difficult not to be anything less than highl
y impressed
with the Dunlop Q3. It delivers confidenceinspiring grip just
shy of a race tire. For the rider looking for a highperformance
street tire that will also handle hard lapping
in a fast group at
your next track day, look no further.”
“… I’m happy to report that CFT is more than
just marketing fluff—these tires deliver.”
— MOTORCYCLE.COM
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KEVIN
SCHWANTZ
AT THE DUNLOP PROVING GROUNDS
World Grand Prix Champion Kevin Schwantz attended the Dunlop Sportmax Q3 tire launch at the Dunlop
Proving Grounds, and sampled both the road course as well as the off-road and motocross courses. His
conclusion? “This place is really special,” said Kevin. “It’s easy to see the advantage Dunlop has with
manufacturing here in the U.S. and development here as well.”
Schwantz does his best “monkeynaut” impression at the United States Space and Rocket Center.
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DUNLOP CLAIMS THREE
SUPERCROSS TITLES IN 2013
After 17 exciting stops all throughout the country, the 2013
race in Seattle, Villopoto played cat and mouse with Team
Monster Energy Supercross, an FIM World Championship
Honda Muscle Milk’s Justin Barcia, and although inching close
series, came to a dramatic close in May at Sam Boyd Stadium,
multiple times he was not able to top the pace of the 450 class
and three Dunlop-supported riders were crowned champions.
rookie. Heading into Salt Lake City, Villopoto had a 25-point
Monster Energy Kawasaki’s Ryan Villopoto had already
lead over second, so in order to keep their championship
wrapped up his third consecutive 450 class championship the
hopes alive, both Rockstar Suzuki’s Davi Millsaps and Red Bull
week prior in Salt Lake City, adding his name to the record book
KTM’s Ryan Dungey would need to beat him. After a hard
as one of the most successful riders in the sport’s 40-year
fought battle in the main event, Villopoto was victorious—his
history. Only three other riders, including Bob Hannah, Jeremy
10th win of the season aboard his Dunlop-equipped KXF450—
McGrath and Ricky Carmichael, have been able to achieve the
and wrapped up the 2013 title with one round remaining.
same success of three back-to-back championships.
Taking second place in the overall standings was Millsaps in
In the 250 class, it was Red Bull KTM’s Ken Roczen who
his career-best season. After a winless two seasons racing on
emerged as the Western Regional Champion, and GEICO
a competing brand of tires, Millsaps made the switch to
Honda’s Wil Hahn who secured the Eastern Regional title.
Dunlops for 2013 and was competitive from the beginning. He
grabbed two victories and nine additional podium finishes
Dunlop’s domination in performance of this open-tire series
throughout the 17-race series. It was a remarkable feat for
was impressive: Eight of the top 10 riders in the 450
someone who was suffering from a severe knee injury that
Supercross class rode on Dunlop Geomax tires, and all of the
required surgery immediately after the end of the season.
top 10 riders in both the 250 East and West classes also rolled
through the series on Dunlop Geomax tires.
With a mere one point separating him from second, it was
Dungey who rounded out the overall podium in third. Following
Despite struggles in the opening segment of the season,
an incredible win in Minneapolis, Dungey continued to post
Villopoto returned to dominant fashion and continued to prove
consistent results, landing on the podium at the final two
time and time again that he was the guy to beat. At his home
rounds with 3-2 finishes.
WILHAHN
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RYANVILLOPOTO
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DUNLOP WOULD LIKE TO CONGRATULATE RYAN
VILLOPOTO, WIL HAHN AND KEN ROCZEN ON THEIR
CHAMPIONSHIPS, AS WELL AS THE REST OF THE
DUNLOP RIDERS WHO HAD A SUCCESSFUL SEASON.
Anticipation was high when two-time 250 East Champion and
championship efforts. As the race came to a close, however,
2012 Monster Cup winner Justin Barcia joined the 450 class
Roczen was able to grab second place, giving him the points
full-time in 2013, and he quickly proved that he had the speed
lead and earning his first AMA Supercross title.
to run up front with the leaders. In what seemed like a repeat
of his first win at Chase Field, Barcia put together an
With 148 points, Troy Lee Designs/Lucas Oil/ Honda’s Cole
exceptional race in Seattle despite muddy conditions,
Seely took third overall in the standings with podium
grabbing the holeshot and leading wire-to-wire to capture his
appearances at five of the nine races. Rockstar Suzuki’s Jason
second career 450-class victory. Barcia finished fourth overall
Anderson clinched his first career victory at round eight and
in the championship with 277 points, followed by TwoTwo
completed the season in fourth overall with 139 points,
Motorsports’ Chad Reed in fifth with 239 points.
followed by Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki’s Martin
Davalos with 134 points.
After an eight-week hiatus, the 250 West Supercross class
resumed at Seattle’s Century Link Field and Red Bull KTM’s
The 250 East class returned to battle for the final race of their
Ken Roczen nailed down his third win of the season, besting
nine round circuit in Las Vegas, and it was Monster Energy Pro
GEICO Honda’s Eli Tomac and Zach Osborne who finished 2-3
Circuit Kawasaki fill-in rider and three-time Arenacross
respectively on the podium. It was a shocking turn of events
Champion Tyler Bowers who topped the podium with an
for the title contenders in Salt Lake City the following weekend
impressive performance. Bowers took the front position
when Roczen did not qualify for the main event after crashes
quickly after the start and never looked back, stretching a nice
in his heat and the LCQ, giving Tomac the perfect opportunity
lead between himself and the rest of the field. The tenacious
to capitalize and take over the points lead. However, Tomac
Red Bull KTM Frenchman Marvin Musquin managed to close
struggled with the course and could only manage a sixth place
within a few seconds of Bowers on the final lap, but it wasn’t
finish. The championship came down to Las Vegas with a
enough and he ultimately finished second in the race and the
mere five points separating the two. With Tomac in the lead at
championship. Despite riding with a broken hand he sustained
the midway point and Roczen a few positions back, it looked
in practice, Wil Hahn finished third overall in the main event,
as if the GIECO Honda rider would be able to repeat his 2012
which was enough for him to wrap up his first professional title
by three points. It was a fairytale season for Hahn, who
finished on the podium in every race and held the points lead
the majority of the season. Rockstar Suzuki’s Blake Wharton
rounded out the championship podium in third, with four
podiums and one race win under his belt.
Dunlop would like to congratulate Ryan Villopoto, Wil Hahn
and Ken Roczen on their championships, as well as the rest of
the Dunlop riders who had a successful season.
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KENROCZEN
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450 SUPERCROSS CLASS CHAMPIONSHIP POINTS
(after 17 of 17 rounds)
1. Ryan Villopoto 371 (Dunlop)
2. Davi Millsaps 338 (Dunlop)
3. Ryan Dungey 337 (Dunlop)
4. Justin Barcia 277 (Dunlop)
5. Chad Reed 239 (Dunlop)
6. Trey Canard 221 (Dunlop)
7. Andrew Short 217
8. Justin Brayton 190
9. Broc Tickle 176 (Dunlop)
10. James Stewart 174 (Dunlop)
250 SUPERCROSS WEST CLASS CHAMPIONSHIP POINTS
(after 9 of 9 rounds)
1. Ken Roczen 185 (Dunlop)
2. Eli Tomac 183 (Dunlop)
3. Cole Seely 148 (Dunlop)
4. Jason Anderson 139 (Dunlop)
5. Martin Davalos 134 (Dunlop)
6. Kyle Cunningham 114 (Dunlop)
7. Zach Osborne 112 (Dunlop)
8. Tyla Rattray 99 (Dunlop)
9. Joey Savatgy 98 (Dunlop)
10. Malcolm Stewart 88 (Dunlop)
250 SUPERCROSS EAST CLASS CHAMPIONSHIP POINTS
(after 9 of 9 rounds)
1. Wil Hahn 198 (Dunlop)
2. Marvin Musquin 195 (Dunlop)
3. Blake Wharton 171 (Dunlop)
4. Vince Friese 118 (Dunlop)
5. Gavin Faith 116 (Dunlop)
6. Cole Thompson 96 (Dunlop)
7. Dean Wilson 87 (Dunlop)
8. Lance Vincent 80 (Dunlop)
9. Kyle Peters 78 (Dunlop)
10. AJ Catanzaro 73 (Dunlop)
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TEAM D RIDERS
PREPARE FOR
LORETTA LYNN’S
The 2013 Red Bull AMA Amateur National Motocross Championship is the world’s
largest and most prestigious amateur motocross racing program, and it culminates on
July 29 through August 3 at the Loretta Lynn Ranch in Hurricane Mills, TN. This is the
32nd year the championship finals have taken place at Loretta’s.
The national amateur qualifying program consists of 50 Area Qualifiers from February
through May, and 12 Regional Championships that take place in June at select
motocross facilities across the country. The qualifying system culminates in the
National Final hosted annually since 1982 at the home of country music star Loretta
Lynn. Nearly 20,000 racers attempt to qualify in 36 classes for the 1,446 available
positions at the National. Christened “The World’s Greatest Motocross Vacation,”
Loretta’s has served as a launch pad for some of the biggest names in professional
Motocross and Supercross, including Ricky Carmichael, James Stewart, Ryan
Villopoto, Ryan Dungey, Justin Barcia, Eli Tomac, Blake Baggett and many more.
This year—for the seventh consecutive season—Team Dunlop riders have been on the
qualifying path to Loretta’s. Here’s where they stand:
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PIERCE BROWN
Team D supported Pierce Brown landed himself some impressive finishes at his Loretta
Lynn Regional Qualifier at The Ranch. Brown managed to stay inside of the top five in the
talented 85 (9-11) ranks over the weekend, beginning things with a fifth place overall score
CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE TEAM D WEB SITE
in the 85 (9-11) class. Pierce blasted out in the 85 (9-11) Limited division, ripping his way
to fourth overall on his #63 Dunlop backed Yamaha ride. Brown’s top five finishes were
more than enough to secure his position on the line this summer when racing meets the
Tennessee temperatures and heats up in August.
THIS YEAR—FOR THE SEVENTH CONSECUTIVE SEASON—
TEAM DUNLOP RIDERS HAVE BEEN ON THE QUALIFYING
PATH TO LORETTA’S. HERE’S WHERE THEY STAND:
AMATEUR AND YOUTH REGIONAL - 5/25/2013 - REGIONAL - THE RANCH - YOUTH & AMATEUR
Class
Finish
Brand
Racing Number
85 (9-11) Limited
4
Yamaha
63
85 (9-11)
5
Yamaha
63
MITCHELL HARRISON
HANNAH HODGES
Mitchell Harrison got his ticket to the Ranch aboard his Team D sponsored Farren Racing
Hannah Hodges had a great ride at the Youth Regional held at Sunday Creek
Suzuki's. Harrison took on the stiff Super Mini competition in the South Central Regional
on her Team D-sponsored Farren Racing Mav TV Suzukis. The number 172
at Golden Pine MX in Prentiss Mississippi, laying waste to the competition with 6 out of
of Hodges stayed true to her usual winning ways, battling and breaking into
6 Moto wins in Super Mini 1 (12-15) and Super Mini 2 (13-16) classes on the number 29
the top spot overall in the Girls (12-16) class, chalking up yet another major
machine. Mitchell's wins earned him a spot at the National and let everyone in the Super
win for Team D. Expect Hodges to be at another regional before all is said
Mini ranks know he is here to compete for that top spot in the premier mini bike class.
and done. She has been mixing it up quite a bit with the boys in the Super
Mini class as well as the older girls in the Women (14+) class lately, so expect
Class
Finish
Brand
Racing Number
to see her on another gate near you before bursting onto the scene at
Super Mini 1 (12-15)
1
Suzuki
29
Loretta’s to compete for titles once again this summer.
Super Mini 2 (13-16)
1
Suzuki
29
YOUTH REGIONAL - 5/24/2013 - REGIONAL - SUNDAY CREEK - YOUTH
Class
Finish
Brand
Racing Number
Girls (12-16)
1
Suzuki
172
JORDAN BAILEY
JETT REYNOLDS
Loretta Lynn Champion Jordan Bailey is on his way back to Loretta’s, this time in the Mini
Flying Jett Reynolds put in some amazing motos at the Youth Regional at The Ranch. The
Sr. (12-14) and Mini Sr. (12-14) Limited classes. Bailey made his way to two podium
number 79 of Jett Reynolds could be seen all weekend ripping around near the front of
finishes at the Youth Regional at Sunday Creek on his Team D-backed KTM. Starting with
whatever class he was competing in at the time. Jett laid the foundation with a strong third
a third overall finish in Mini Sr. (12-14), Bailey battled hard in the Mini Sr. (12-14) Limited
place overall in the 65 (7-9) Limited class on his Team D-supported Cobra 65. Accustomed
class for the win, however came up just short, finishing the weekend in the second overall.
to winning, Jett’s third on the 65 was not enough for him, coming out with a vengeance in
Given Bailey’s history at Loretta’s and his recent qualifying scores, expect him to come out
the 51 (7-8) Limited class and shredding through the riders, making his way to take first
strong and gun for the top spot this summer in Hurricane Mills.
overall for the day, entering Loretta’s as a championship favorite in the class, given his
raw speed and recent race results on the Dunlop-backed Cobra 50.
YOUTH REGIONAL - 5/24/2013 - REGIONAL - SUNDAY CREEK - YOUTH
42
Class
Finish
Brand
Racing Number
AMATEUR AND YOUTH REGIONAL - 5/25/2013 - REGIONAL - THE RANCH - YOUTH & AMATEUR
Mini Sr. (12-14) Limited
2
KTM
133
Class
Finish
Brand
Racing Number
Mini Sr. (12-14)
3
KTM
133
51 (7-8) Limited
1
Cobra
79
65 (7-9) Limited
3
Cobra
79
43
MICHAEL MOSIMAN
RYDER DIFRANCESCO
The number 342 Team D-backed Suzuki of Michael Mosiman has shown amazing speed
Ryder DiFrancesco is on his way back to Loretta Lynn’s Dude Ranch again, racing in the
lately in the Mini Sr. and Super Mini divisions, continuing his streak at the Loretta Lynn
the (7-8) age group. Racing at The Ranch for his Loretta Lynn’s Regional, two-time 51 (4-
Youth Regional at The Ranch. Only finishing off the podium in one class, a fourth in Mini
6) class champion and Team D-sponsored DiFrancesco displayed great speed and
Sr. (12-14) Limited, Mosiman got his Dunlop tires spinning at the Ranch, working into the
intensity on his way to earning another chance to line up at Loretta’s. DiFrancesco’s fourth
top three twice more, qualifying for three classes on the day. With third place overall
overall came after a very impressive second-place moto one finish behind Jett Reynolds.
finishes in the Mini Sr. (12-14) and Super Mini 1 (12-15) class, Mosiman secured his right
Entering the (7-8) ranks as the young underdog, Dunlop’s Ryder can’t be counted out as
to one of the spots on the prestigious gates in whichever classes he chooses to compete
a contender. If he doesn’t take the top spot at The Ranch this summer, you can bet he will
in. Mosiman has taken some very impressive finishes in 2013 so far, and doesn’t appear
be pushing whoever does to their limits.
to be slowing down anytime soon.
AMATEUR AND YOUTH REGIONAL - 5/25/2013 - REGIONAL - THE RANCH - YOUTH & AMATEUR
AMATEUR AND YOUTH REGIONAL - 5/25/2013 - REGIONAL - THE RANCH - YOUTH & AMATEUR
Class
Finish
Brand
Racing Number
Mini Sr. (12-14) Limited
4
Suzuki
342
Mini Sr. (12-14)
3
Suzuki
342
Super Mini 1 (12-15)
3
Suzuki
342
Class
Finish
Brand
Racing Number
51 (7-8) Limited
4
Cobra
199
PARKER MASHBURN
SEAN CANTRELL
KTM Orange Brigade’s Parker Mashburn is headed to Tennessee! Team D-supported
Sean Cantrell shredded through the competition at the Youth Regional at The
Mashburn rocked the Sunday Creek Youth Regional, earning podium finishes in each of
Ranch. Cantrell rode the Dunlop tires off his Monster Energy-backed Team
his classes over the weekend, qualifying inside the upper echelon of the 85 (9-11) class.
Green KX85, putting in amazing motos along the way. Sean scored first place
Beginning with a third place overall score in the 85 (9-11) class, Mashburn improved upon
overall in all four of the classes he attempted to qualify in for Loretta’s.
that finish with a strong second, narrowly missing out on the overall in the 85 (9-11) Limited
Winning seven of eight motos throughout the weekend, Cantrell dominated
class. Parker’s awesome Loretta Lynn Qualifying effort as well as a great 2013 season so
at The Ranch, winning the premier 85 divisions. The number 37 bike of Sean
far has the number 223 machine coming into Loretta Lynn’s hot.
Cantrell will be one to watch when the Mini Sr (12-14) and Super Mini classes
hit the track at Loretta Lynn’s Dude Ranch in Hurricane Mills.
YOUTH REGIONAL - 5/24/2013 - REGIONAL - SUNDAY CREEK - YOUTH
Class
Finish
Brand
Racing Number
AMATEUR AND YOUTH REGIONAL - 5/25/2013 - REGIONAL - THE RANCH - YOUTH & AMATEUR
85 (9-11) Limited
2
KTM
223
Class
Finish
Brand
Racing Number
85 (9-11)
3
KTM
223
Mini Sr. (12-14) Limited
1
Kawasaki
37
Mini Sr. (12-14)
1
Kawasaki
37
Super Mini 1 (12-15)
1
Kawasaki
37
Super Mini 2 (13-16)
1
Kawasaki
37
GAGE LINVILLE
LANCE KOBUSCH
Team D’s Gage Linville is on the move, qualifying for Loretta Lynn’s through the Sunday
Competing in the Youth Regional at Sunday Creek was Team D’s Lance Kobusch, who is
Creek Youth Regional with great results. Contesting the 65 (7-9) Limited and 65 (7-11)
taking the 85 (9-11) class by storm. Kobusch put it to the (9-11) competition, ripping out
classes, Linville took the 65 classes by storm, starting his Loretta Lynn title run with a
of the start gate and working his way to two overall wins in the 85 (9-11) Limited and 85
fourth overall in the (7-11) division. Linville found his way back to the top, clawing through
(9-11) classes. Kobusch’s race results from Sunday Creek were all he needed to lock down
the competition and earning first place overall in the 65 (7-9) Limited class, notching
his position on the roster of the (9-11) class in Hurricane Mills, TN, earning himself another
another major win along the way to Loretta Lynn’s.
ticket to battle for the coveted Loretta Lynn’s Amateur National title against the best of
the best in his division.
YOUTH REGIONAL - 5/24/2013 - REGIONAL - SUNDAY CREEK - YOUTH
44
Class
Finish
Brand
Racing Number
YOUTH REGIONAL - 5/24/2013 - REGIONAL - SUNDAY CREEK - YOUTH
65 (7-9) Limited
1
Cobra
402
Class
Finish
Brand
Racing Number
65 (7-11)
4
KTM
402
85 (9-11) Limited
1
Kawasaki
99
85 (9-11)
1
Kawasaki
99
45
TANNER STACK
CHASE SEXTON
Team Dunlop amateur rider Tanner Stack earned his ticket back to Loretta Lynn’s Ranch in
Team D’s Chase Sexton was on the gas during the Youth Regional Sunday Creek, landing
2013. Stack lined up in the Mini Sr. and Super Mini classes at the Youth Regional held at
himself some great finishes along the way. Sexton got the ball rolling with second overall
Sunday Creek. Stack began with a fourth place overall finish in the Mini Sr. (12-14) Limited
in the Mini Sr. (12-14) division, railing around the competition on the Sunday Creek track.
division. Stack backed these initial qualifying races with three additional podium finishes,
Chase came prepared for battle during the Mini Sr. (12-14) Limited class with no plans of
including a huge first place overall in the Mini Sr. (12-14) class as well as a pair of second-
backing down. Earning the first-place overall spot on the weekend, Sexton put his Team
place finishes in Super Mini 1 (12-15) and Super Mini 2 (13-16). Stack piloted the number
D-supported number 486 machine on the short list of the nations top rides in his respective
382 machine to a string of great rides, securing his place once again at Loretta’s. After great
class heading into Loretta Lynn’s.
success during 2013 thus far, 2013 seems to hold no limits for Team D’s Stack.
YOUTH REGIONAL - 5/24/2013 - REGIONAL - SUNDAY CREEK - YOUTH
YOUTH REGIONAL - 5/24/2013 - REGIONAL - SUNDAY CREEK - YOUTH
Class
Finish
Brand
Racing Number
Class
Finish
Brand Racing Number
Mini Sr. (12-14) Limited
1
Yamaha
486
Mini Sr. (12-14) Limited
4
Kawasaki
382
Mini Sr. (12-14)
2
Yamaha
486
Mini Sr. (12-14)
1
Kawasaki
382
Super Mini 1 (12-15)
12
Yamaha
486
Super Mini 1 (12-15)
2
Kawasaki
382
Super Mini 2 (13-16)
2
Kawasaki
382
STILEZ ROBERTSON
AUSTIN FORKNER
The 85 (9-11) classes saw some great racing at the Youth Regional going on at The Ranch.
Team D’s Austin Forkner has been on fire in 2013 and taking the Super Mini
Stilez Robertson worked through the pack, finding his way to two second place overall
classes by storm. Other than dealing with a minor injury after the Spring Nationals,
finishes in the 85 (9-11) Limited and 85 (9-11) divisions, finishing just second to fellow
Forkner has obviously been working very hard in his off time. Competing at
Team Dunlop athlete Garrett Marchbanks, who took the top spots on the podium.
Sunday Creek for the Youth Regional, Austin Forkner wanted nothing less than the
Robertson made all of the necessary moves at The Ranch, getting another pass to Loretta
number one spot, earning wins in both the Super Mini 1 (12-15) and Super Mini 2
Lynn’s for the national. After great regional qualifying rides, look for the number 325 to
(13-16) classes over the weekend. Coming wide-open into the extreme summer
make a charge for the title at the Dude Ranch this summer.
heat at Loretta Lynn’s as a championship contender, Forkner’s first place finishes
put him in the spotlight and all eyes will be on him as he fights to take over the
AMATEUR AND YOUTH REGIONAL - 5/25/2013 - REGIONAL - THE RANCH - YOUTH & AMATEUR
Super Mini class. Forkner’s fitness and ability to finesse the bike is like no other’s
Class
and his Loretta Lynn’s effort for 2013 appears to be on the right track.
Finish
Brand
Racing Number
85 (9-11) Limited
2
Kawasaki
325
85 (9-11)
2
Kawasaki
325
YOUTH REGIONAL - 5/24/2013 - REGIONAL - SUNDAY CREEK - YOUTH
Class
Finish
Brand
Racing Number
Super Mini 1 (12-15)
1
Kawasak
214
Super Mini 2 (13-16)
1
Kawasaki
214
CARSON MUMFORD
GARRETT MARCHBANKS
Team D’s Carson Mumford qualified for Loretta Lynn’s at the Youth Regional at The Ranch.
Garrett Marchbanks logged some great motos over the weekend on his number 82 machine
Mumford’s pair of top-five finishes were all that he needed to solidify his spot The Ranch
and is qualified again for Loretta Lynn’s. Marchbanks proved he is in it to win it this summer
on his Team D-backed ride. In Mumford’s first full season aboard the 85 machine, his
in the 85 (9-11) classes. Garrett’s successes in the 85 (9-11) Limited and 85 (9-11) classes
results in the 85 (9-11) classes have been very solid. With the speed and raw talent on the
added his name to the short, talented list of athletes fighting for the 85 (9-11) titles this
bike, combined with great support, the sky is the limit for Mumford in 2013.
August. Marchbanks pair of first-place overall finishes certainly put him on everyone’s radar
in these classes. 2013 looks to be an exciting one in the (9-11) ranks, and Marchbanks will
46
AMATEUR AND YOUTH REGIONAL - 5/25/2013 - REGIONAL - THE RANCH - YOUTH & AMATEUR
be there all the way fighting for his piece of the pie when the gate drops at Loretta’s
Class
Finish
Brand
Racing Number
this summer.
85 (9-11) Limited
5
Kawasaki
122
85 (9-11)
4
Kawasaki
122
AMATEUR AND YOUTH REGIONAL - 5/25/2013 - REGIONAL - THE RANCH - YOUTH & AMATEUR
Class
Finish
Brand
Racing Number
85 (9-11) Limited
1
Kawasaki
82
85 (9-11)
1
Kawasaki
82
47
AT81F
AT81 Rear
AT81 Desert RC
INTRODUCING THE
GEOMAX AT81/AT81 DESERT RC
With the development of the Geomax® line of premium off-
offer an exceptional overall choice. The AT81 and AT81 Desert
road tires—the MX71™, MX51™, MX31™ and MX11™—
RC—which replace the D952 and D739AT in Dunlop’s off-road
Dunlop has placed a hammerlock on success at the highest
lineup—are available in a wide range of sizing options.
levels of racing in the dirt by winning every AMA Supercross
and AMA Motocross championship since 2010. Now, that
Developed at the Dunlop Proving Grounds in Huntsville, AL,
championship experience and development expertise has
as well as off-road riding areas and races across the country,
been rolled into the next generation of off-road tires: the all-
the AT81 series benefited from input by top national Dunlop-
new Geomax AT81 and Geomax AT81 Desert RC.
sponsored off-road racers. And as soon as the standardproduction Geomax AT81 tires became available mid-season
Dunlop ha:s had much success in off-road racing, including
2013, top-level Grand National Cross Country racers put them
winning the last 16 Baja 1000 races, dozens more desert
to work. As of this writing, Factory FMF/KTM Off-Road Racing
championships, and titles in both GNCC and WORCS
Team rider Kailub Russell just won his second consecutive
competition. These additions to the Geomax family offer even
race aboard the AT81, heading up a podium sweep for the
more all-around performance, plus a higher level of
new Dunlop Geomax AT81 tires at the Snowshoe Mountain
ruggedness than Dunlop’s current D952 and D739AT tires—
GNCC. In National Enduro competition, Russell’s teammate
just the ticket for the demanding, wide-ranging terrain
Charlie Mullins won the Foggy Mountain National Enduro and
encountered in off-road and desert riding.
headed up another podium sweep for the new Dunlop
Geomax AT81.
Unlike motocross, where track conditions remain fairly
consistent—allowing riders to choose hard, intermediate or
Both winners offered up high praises for the newly released
soft-terrain tires to suit conditions—off-road riders and racers
stock Geomax AT81 tires. Russell said, “The AT81 tires are
can encounter wildly varying terrain over the course of a race
really impressive in the rocks and roots. They held up great.”
or a day out riding with friends. It is not unusual at all to
48
encounter hard-packed fire roads, sand, water crossings, mud
Mullins said, “The AT81 worked really good and kept traction
and loam all in a day’s ride, and that’s where the new AT81 tires
the whole race.”
49
To offer the kind of extra-rugged construction needed for long offroad rides or races, the carcass design of the rear Geomax AT81
features two nylon plies, while the Geomax AT81 Desert RC
incorporates four nylon plies for added toughness. The AT81 rear
block shape and distribution as well as the newly engineered tread
knobs—called DIRTuitive Grip Design (DGD)—feature a C-cut
shoulder block shape that helps the tire penetrate down through the
surface dirt for extra traction, while the lateral grooves on the shoulder
knobs provide additional biting edges. These lateral grooves also
allow the knobs to be more flexible without surrendering strength, and
this design also helps with impact absorption. The center blocks are
arranged in-line to provide a larger contact patch to help maximum
traction, and a newly formulated tire compound offers high wear
resistance. Between the center blocks is Dunlop’s familiar plush pad
recess design, which enhances compliance characteristics for optimal
bump absorption and ride comfort.
The AT81 front tire design was inspired by the highly popular D756F,
and modernized to incorporate the DIRTuitive Grip Design lateral
grooves on the shoulder knobs that provide additional biting edges
while also adding flexibility and impact-absorbing qualities. The front
tire construction includes two plies of nylon wrapped with a third ply
of polyester; together they form a strong base for the many varied
obstacles an off-road tire will encounter. Like the AT81 rear, the front
tire incorporates Dunlop’s plush pad design in the areas between
the center tread blocks for enhanced compliance characteristics
that yield a more comfortable ride.
In total, all of these features provide a balanced carcass tension that
allows the Geomax AT81 to conform better to changing ground
conditions that adds up to a new level of performance for off-road and
desert riding. By incorporating Dunlop’s latest in off-road tire design
elements, the new Geomax AT81 and Geomax AT81 Desert RC deliver
championship-level performance that parallels the phenomenal
success Dunlop has earned for years in AMA Supercross and
Motocross racing, and adds to the winning formula Dunlop has
established in virtually every form of off-road competition.
50
51
MX
UPDATE
52
53
RYANVILLOPOTO
54
55
REIGNING CHAMPION RYAN DUNGEY IS KNOWN FOR HIS
CONSISTENCY, AND THIS SEASON IS NO DIFFERENT.
After a long 17 weekends of stadiums packed full of fans all
With seven of 12 rounds completed, Monster Energy
across the country, riders are given a one-week break to
Kawasaki’s Ryan Villopoto has set the pace by winning all but
change gears and prepare for the summer’s grueling 12 race
a few of the motos and carving out a significant
motocross series. The Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship,
championship lead. That lead was assisted by KTM rival Ryan
sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing is a true test of a rider’s
Dungey’s departure from the first moto at RedBud with a
physical and mental toughness, as they are forced to battle
mechanical issue. James Steward also came into form as the
through two 30-minute plus two-lap motos to determine the
season progressed, culminating with a second overall at
winner. The 2013 season can be argued as one of the toughest
RedBud. In the 250 class, Red Bull KTM’s Ken Roczen has
of all time, in both classes. With six riders in the 450 class
continued to impress, leading the 250 point’s chase over
having national championships and the likes of premier class
GEICO Honda’s Eli Tomac and his KTM teammate Marvin
rookie Justin Barcia, everyone has their work cut out for them.
Musquin. In the WMX class, Jessica Patterson took the
championship over Team Honda Muscle Milk’s Sayaka
It has been a continuous battle in the 250 class, with former
Kaneshiro at the final round.
champion Blake Baggett facing Supercross champions Ken
Roczen and Eli Tomac, along with the French World Champ
Despite missing the entire 2012 MX season due to injury, the
Marvin Musquin and many up-and-comers. Dunlop-supported
2011 champion Ryan Villopoto wasted no time picking up
riders have proven superior by sweeping the top ten in the
where he left off in Supercross, sweeping both motos at the
250 class, and currently have 8 of the top ten positions in the
45th Hangtown Motocross Classic in Sacramento, CA. After
450 championship.
battling with Team Honda Muscle Milk’s Justin Barcia and
RYANDUNGEY
56
57
TREYCANARD
Red Bull KTM’s Ryan Dungey throughout the majority of both
consistency and this season is no different. He has appeared
30-minute plus-two lap races at Thunder Valley, Villopoto
on the podium at every round, securing his first victory at
again came out on top in both motos, delivering a powerful
Muddy Creek Raceway. At the season opener, Dungey put
1-1 performance. At the inaugural Built Ford Tough
together a valiant effort but was unable to match the speed
Tennessee National, Villopoto went on to win the first moto,
of Villopoto, ultimately finishing second overall for the day
but not without contention from Barcia, who kept him honest
with a pair of second place finishes. Dungey, a three-time
much of the race. Unfortunately, Villopoto was unable to
winner at the Thunder Valley National, finished second overall
replicate his performance in the second moto, succumbing
with 2-2 marks. At round three, Dungey went on to claim his
to the track multiple times before taking the checkered flag in
first overall win of the season after his moto 2 win, putting an
fourth. He came in third with his 1-4 score and was able to
end to Villopoto’s five-moto win streak.
maintain the 450 class points lead. At round four in
Pennsylvania the 3-time Supercross champion returned to
At the High-Point National, Villopoto again won both motos for
his winning ways, securing his third victory of the season
the overall win with Dungey again finishing second. At Budds
with two stellar rides aboard his Dunlop-backed KXF450.
Creek, the two swapped wins, with Dungey coming out on top
Reigning champion Ryan Dungey is known for his
with the overall win. At Southwick, Dungey won the first moto,
JUSTINBARCIA
58
59
KENROCZEN
60
61
MARVINMUSQUIN
BLAKEBAGGETT
62
ELITOMAC
63
WITH THE 250 CLASS STACKED FULL OF TALENTED RIDERS,
EACH WEEKEND HAS SHOWCASED HEATED BATTLES
THROUGHOUT BOTH MOTOS.
but Villopoto could only manage a fourth—KTM’s Andrew Short
With the 250 class stacked full of talented riders, each
finished second with Barcia in third. Villopoto struck back in the
weekend has showcased heated battles throughout both
second moto with a win, but it wasn’t enough to keep Dungey
motos. Newly crowned 250 SX West Champion Ken Roczen
from taking the overall. It all went bad for Dungey at RedBud
has managed to maintain his points lead since seizing the
when a mechanical took him out of the first moto. A third in the
overall win at Hangtown. After Roczen posted the overall win
second moto gave him tenth overall, but Villopoto’s sweep
at RedBud over second-place Tomac, Roczen leads the
gave him a whopping 41-point lead in the championship over
overall standings by a slim seven-point margin over GEICO
Dungey with Barcia in third.
Honda’s Eli Tomac. Roczen’s teammate Marvin Musquin is
currently third in points following by defending champ
Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki’s Blake Baggett.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE MOTOCROSS IMAGES
450 CLASS CHAMPIONSHIP POINTS
(after 7 of 12 rounds)
64
250 CLASS CHAMPIONSHIP POINTS
(after 7 of 12 rounds)
WMX CHAMPIONSHIP POINTS
(after 3 of 3 rounds)
1. Ryan Villopoto 333 (Dunlop)
1. Ken Roczen 312 (Dunlop)
1. Jessica Patterson 122 (Dunlop)
2. Ryan Dungey 291 (Dunlop)
2. Eli Tomac 305 (Dunlop)
2. Sayaka Kaneshiro 120 (Dunlop)
3. Justin Barcia 249 (Dunlop)
3. Marvin Musquin 260 (Dunlop)
3. Taylor Higgins 100 (Dunlop)
4. Trey Canard 200 (Dunlop)
4. Blake Baggett 247 (Dunlop)
4. Mackenzie Tricker 99
5. James Stewart 184 (Dunlop)
5. Zach Osborne 212 (Dunlop)
5. Sara Pettersson 94 (Dunlop)
6. Mike Alessi 170 (Dunlop)
6. Jason Anderson 176 (Dunlop)
6. Jacqueline Strong 81 (Dunlop)
7. Andrew Short 137
7. Jeremy Martin 162 (Dunlop)
7. Lindsey Palmer 71 (Dunlop)
8. Broc Tickle 135 (Dunlop)
8. Kyle Cunningham 158 (Dunlop)
8. Amanda Brown 66 (Dunlop)
9. Josh Grant 131
9. Justin Bogle 145 (Dunlop)
9. Sade Allender 64 (Dunlop)
10. Jake Weimer 131 (Dunlop)
10. Cooper Webb 140 (Dunlop)
10. Marissa Markelon 55 (Dunlop)
JESSICAPATTERSON
65
GEICO MOTORCYCLE AMA PRO ROAD RACING:
2013 MID-SEASON REPORT
66
67
MARTINCARDENAS
68
69
HAYES IS VERY MUCH BACK IN CONTENTION FOR HIS
FOURTH-CONSECUTIVE AMA PRO NATIONAL GUARD
SUPERBIKE CHAMPIONSHIP.
AMA PRO NATIONAL GUARD SUPERBIKE
After a surprise-filled and highly entertaining Daytona round
2012, Hayes got the double win at Barber. Hayes had a lot of
of the AMA Pro National Guard SuperBike series—in which
confidence going into Barber, and he was hoping to repeat
three-time defending SuperBike Champion Josh Hayes had a
history with another perfect-points weekend.
couple of ultra-rare mechanical issues with his Monster
Energy/Graves/Yamaha YZF-R1 that forced him out of both
As it turned out, he did just that. He earned pole, and then,
Daytona races—Hayes came into Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin’s
despite jumping the start in Saturday’s first SuperBike race
Road America a whopping 48 points adrift of his familiar spot
and being assessed a 5-second penalty, he won the race
in the points lead. His teammate Josh Herrin and Yoshimura
outright, with National Guard Jordan Suzuki rider Roger
Suzuki Factory Racing’s Martin Cardenas each won races at
Hayden in hot pursuit, having also been given a 5-
Daytona, which put last year’s SuperBike Rookie of the Year
second penalty.
Herrin in first place after one round, with Cardenas in second
place in the season points standings. Meanwhile, Hayes was
In one of the closest SuperBike races in quite some time,
mired down in 18th place.
Hayes held on by just 0.245 seconds at the stripe. He picked
up another 11 points in the championship rankings, due to
Road America happens to be Hayes’ favorite track on the
the fact that Cardenas finished the race 13.170 seconds back
SuperBike tour, and even though his back was against the
in third place.
wall, the three-time champ came out of the magical land of
cheese and brats with a perfect-points weekend. He won
Avoiding the starting-line drama of Saturday’s SuperBike race
pole, won both SuperBike races, and even earned two more
at Barber Motorsports Park, in Sunday’s race Hayes had to
bonus points for leading the most laps in each of those races.
contend with teammate Herrin in the early going. On lap six
Hayes squeezed all the points he could out of Road America,
of the contest, Herrin passed Hayes going into the turn that’s
which moved him up to fourth place in the championship by
known as Charlotte’s Web, and the younger Josh led the race
gaining 14 points on the championship leader Martin
for the next two laps. Hayes got back in front of Herrin on lap
Cardenas. Cardenas finished second in each of the Road
eight, and then, Herrin lost his second position to Hayden,
America SuperBike races, doing everything he could to hold
who was hard-charging to the front as he did in Saturday’s
off the Hayes onslaught. But the Colombian rider knows
SuperBike race. Hayden stayed right on Hayes’ rear wheel for
better than anyone that he can’t collect second-place results
the remainder of the race, but he was ultimately not able to
and win the championship. Cardenas’ two second-place
make the pass for the win. Herrin maintained a comfortable
finishes, however, did enable him to leapfrog over Herrin to
distance ahead of Cardenas, and the two riders finished in
take the lead in the Championship, due to the fact that
third and fourth place respectively.
Herrin finished in sixth and third in the two Road America
SuperBike races.
So, after two perfect-points weekends at Road America and
Barber Motorsports Park, Hayes is very much back in
The next stop on the schedule, at Barber Motorsports Park in
contention for his fourth consecutive AMA Pro National Guard
Birmingham, AL, is another favorite venue of Hayes. The track
SuperBike Championship. He moved into second place in the
is relatively close to his hometown in Gulfport, MS, and, in
standings and now trails first-place Cardenas by a mere 10
points. He can take over the championship lead if he notches
another perfect-points weekend at the next GEICO
Motorcycle AMA Pro Road Racing event, which is at MidOhio Sports Car Course in Lexington, OH.
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JOSHHAYES
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CAMERONBEAUBIER
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AMA PRO GOPRO DAYTONA SPORTBIKE
Following his dominant Daytona 200 win, Yamaha Extended
Service/Monster Energy/Graves/Yamaha YZF-R6 rider Cameron
Beaubier looked to Elkhart Lake, WI, to continue the pursuit of his (and
Yamaha’s) first AMA GoPro Daytona SportBike Championship.
Beaubier split the weekend’s race wins with RoadRace Factory/Red
Bull rider Jake Gagne. In Saturday’s race, Beaubier and Gagne had a
good battle in the early part of the contest, but Beaubier was able to
pull a slight gap over Gagne starting on lap four, which he then
stretched out to a 2.693-second lead by the time he took the
checkered flag.
On Sunday, the outcome was different. Gagne went to the front in very
short order, and Beaubier needed almost a full lap to slot himself into
second in front of Meen Motorsports rider Jake Lewis. Beaubier was
then able to make a draft pass on Gagne down the straight, only to
have Gagne overtake Beaubier heading into Road America’s turn five.
The two Yamaha riders diced back and forth until three laps from the
end of the race, when Beaubier had a bobble going into turn 11,
enabling Gagne to pull a 3.5-second gap, which he stretched out to a
full 4 seconds to win his second Daytona SportBike race of his career.
In the battle for third at Road America, J.D. Beach of the RoadRace
Factory/Red Bull team prevailed in the first race, while Lewis took the
position in the second race.
Leaving Road America—and with three DSB races behind them—
Beaubier led the championship by 15 points over Gagne.
At the next round at Barber Motorsports Park, Beaubier would return
to the track where, last year, he notched the first DSB pole, first DSB
win, and first DSB double wins of his career. The Northern Californian
was hoping to repeat history in 2013 and score his secondconsecutive perfect-points weekend at the Birmingham, Alabama,
track—and that’s exactly what he did.
Beaubier earned the provisional pole in Friday’s first qualifying session,
and he broke the track record that he had set in 2012.
In Saturday’s DSB race, Beaubier notched his third victory of the
season, besting his rival (and good friend) Gagne, along with Jason
DiSalvo, who rides a Latus Motors Racing Triumph Daytona 675R.
On Sunday, Beaubier completed his perfect weekend by taking win
number four of the season. The current DSB championship points
leader won by 6.326 seconds over RoadRace Factory/Red Bull
teammates Gagne and Beach.
JAKEGAGNE
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STEFANOMESA
TOMASPUERTA
AMA PRO MOTORCYCLE-SUPERSTORE.COM SUPERSPORT
At Road America, in the always highly competitive AMA Pro
advantage over the diminutive Colombian by the time he took
was just 0.001 behind Stefano. Alexander had succeeded in
Roberts got a less-than-ideal start in Saturday’s SuperSport
Motorcycle-SuperStore.com SuperSport class, National Guard
the checkered flag and the win. It was Alexander’s first AMA
doing the double at Road America, and by the narrowest
race, but he quickly moved into the lead on lap two, where he
Celtic Racing Suzuki GSX-R600 rider Corey Alexander had a
Pro Road Racing victory since his win in the rain aboard a
of margins.
dominated the race and won by 8.122 seconds over
weekend that he won’t soon forget.
Vesrah Suzuki GSX-R600 in SuperSport two years prior at
Miller Motorsports Park.
Alexander was the fastest rider on the track in the very first
McFadden of TOBC Racing. Incidentally, McFadden had also
turned into a pretty big surprise as the battle was joined by
recently turned 16 and was making his AMA Pro debut just
Road America practice session on Friday afternoon. In
In most SuperSport races, the finishes are close and who wins
Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup rider Joe Roberts, who had
like Roberts, so the two teen-agers really shone in their first
provisional qualifying on Friday, he put himself into second
among at least five riders is usually anyone’s guess. Such was
recently turned 16 and became eligible for AMA Pro Road
road race as professionals.
position on the grid, next to polesitter Stefano Mesa, who races
the situation in Sunday’s SuperSport race. For all 10 laps of
Racing competition.
a Yamaha YZF-R6 for the Motosport.com RSRacecraft team.
the red-flag-delayed contest, five riders were bunched up at
Capping off his dream weekend, Roberts also won Sunday’s
the front, including poleman Mesa, RoadRace Factory/Red
Even though he was unfamiliar with the Alabama track and
SuperSport race at Barber, beating Team 95’s Hayden Gillim
Saturday morning at Road America dawned wet and cold for
Bull’s Tomas Puerta, Harv’s H-D racer Travis Wyman, Baby
the AMA Pro Motorcycle-SuperStore.com SuperSport class,
by 3.690 seconds, with Puerta finishing third.
SuperSport final qualifying, and none of the top riders were
Appleseed CM Motorsport rider Jeffrey Tigert, and Alexander.
Roberts was immediately fast on his California SuperBike
able to improve on the times set in the first qualifying session
on Friday.
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RoadRace Factory/Red Bull’s Tomas Puerta and Nick
The SuperSport race weekend at Barber Motorsports Park
School/RoadracingWorld.com Racing Honda CBR600RR.
With the round at Barber Motorsports in the books, Mesa is
Alexander, Mesa, and Puerta took the checkered flag three-
He set the fastest time in practice and absolutely blitzed his
currently leading the 2013 AMA Pro Motorcycle-
wide and virtually in unison, and none of them initially had
competition in qualifying to earn the SuperSport pole against
Superstore.com SuperSport East standings by just two
As portended by Friday’s provisional qualifying, Saturday’s
any idea who actually won the race. The photo finish showed
AMA Pro Road Racing’s biggest field of competitors.
points over Alexander. The SuperSport West standings show
SuperSport race was a two-rider duel between Mesa and
that Alexander emerged victorious, with Mesa in second place
Puerta at the top with a 32-point lead over Mach Modified’s
Alexander, and Corey was able to eke out a 1-second
just 0.12 of a second behind, and third-place finisher Puerta
David Sadowski Jr.
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AMA PRO VANCE & HINES XR1200
The developing story in the AMA Pro Vance & Hines XR1200 class is
the interesting schedule and unquestionable talent of wily veteran
Steve Rapp, who races for the Suburban Harley-Davidson team.
Rapp’s burgeoning career as a commercial airline pilot caused him to
have to miss the first day of practice and qualifying at both Road
America and Barber Motorsports Park. You’d think that would put the
Northern Californian at a distinct disadvantage against the extremely
stiff competition in the XR1200 class.
On the contrary, Rapp flew into Wisconsin late on Saturday night,
drove to the track in Elkhart Lake, set the pole on Sunday morning,
and won Sunday afternoon’s race in dominating fashion.
At Barber Motorsports Park, Rapp once again missed the first day of
practice and qualifying due to his day job as a pilot, but he spent his
day off on Sunday in Alabama where he again qualified on the front
row for the XR1200 class.
Despite facing a serious challenge from Spyke’s Harley-Davidson’s
Michael Barnes during the first part of Sunday’s race at Barber—which
saw Barnes lead early—Rapp was ultimately able to break free and
build up a 5.454-second lead at the checkered flag to record his
second win out of three races so far this season. Third place went to
Eco-Fuel Saver/Scrubblade’s Tyler O’Hara, who won the XR1200 race
at Daytona.
Currently, Barnes is narrowly leading the championship by just one
point over Rapp, with O’Hara in third place and only seven points out
of the championship lead himself.
Last year’s AMA Pro Vance & Hines XR1200 class came right down to
the final corner of the final race before the championship was decided,
and, by the way things are shaping up so far this season, it looks like
the 2013 championship may conclude in similar fashion. Stay tuned.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE ROAD RACE IMAGES
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ROGERHAYDEN
CAMERONBEAUBIER
DUNLOP RIDERS SET
LAP RECORD AND
FASTEST RACE LAP
TIMES AT BARBER
JOEROBERTS
STEVERAPP
In the American SuperBike Class, National Guard Jordan
In the Daytona SportBike class, all riders competed on
Suzuki’s Roger Hayden set a new SuperBike fastest race lap
Sportmax D211GP-A tires designed and produced in Buffalo.
at Barber of 1:25.2 during Saturday’s race, a half-second
During Saturday’s qualifying session, Cameron Beaubier set
faster than the 2012 fastest race lap. The pace was
a new lap record in qualifying with a 1:27.2, which was 0.2
exceptionally fast, with Hayes and Hayden lapping in the
second faster than the previous record.
mid-1:25s for most of the duration of both races. The
performance of the domestically developed and produced
With the entire SuperSport field likewise mounted aboard
Dunlop 200/55R17 KR449 slicks was stellar, with amazing
U.S.-made Sportmax D211 GP-A DOT-approved tires, 16-
consistency during both races despite track temperatures
year-old Joe Roberts dominated the racing and set a new
topping 118 degrees Fahrenheit.
fastest race lap for the class in the second race with a
remarkable time of 1:29.0, nearly a second faster than the
previous year.
In the XR1200 race, winner Steve Rapp topped the fastest
race lap aboard D211 GP-A tires by a full second, posting a
1:34.6 time that demolished the 1:35.6 fast-lap mark set only
a year ago in 2012.
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DUNLOP PROVING GROUNDS:
A ONE-OF-A-KIND FACILITY IN THE U.S.
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DPG’s wet track includes a skid pad where lateral loads can be measured in both wet and dry conditions.
Tire testing is an exacting and arduous
business; DPG maintains numerous
THE PROCESS OF CREATING A NEW TIRE INCORPORATES
MUCH CHEMISTRY, PHYSICS AND ENGINEERING, A MEASURE
OF ART AND LOADS AND LOADS OF HARD WORK.
street and off-road test bikes, plus a
full-on Suzuki Superbike to test race
and track tires to the limit.
The process of creating a new tire incorporates much chemistry, physics
and engineering, a measure of art and loads and loads of hard work. After
the computer designing and lab work are completed, tires are then put to
the real-world test. One place they are tested is at the Dunlop Proving
Grounds (DPG) in Huntsville, AL.
Dunlop develops, evaluates and then builds motorcycle tires for the North
American market here in the U.S. to best match U.S. riding styles and
needs. Much of the development and evaluation process takes place here
at DPG, a dedicated motorcycle-only tire-test facility and the only one of
Located on 80 acres, DPG was dedicated in
its kind in the U.S. using American-spec bikes. This 80-acre facility
1989. Since then, test riders have done
opened in 1989, and ongoing improvements to the road course, the wet-
hundreds of thousands of laps testing
test track, the multiple Supercross and motocross tracks as well as a
everything from Gold Wing tires to Supercross
recently expanded off-road course, make it a leading-edge tool for real-
tires to AMA Pro road racing slicks.
world tire development. DPG is also the only dedicated wet-track test
facility designed specifically for motorcycles in the U.S., which explains
why AMA road racing teams test their wet setup there.
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On-board data acquisition
equipment augments rider feedback
during testing, making laptops as
common at DPG as tires irons.
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Rich Conicelli in action on the Yosh Superbike, one of many test bikes in the DPG stable.
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Clark Stiles puts
Dunlop’s Geomax®
off-road tires to the test
on DPG’s numerous
Supercross, Motocross
and off-road courses.
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DPG’s wet track can simulate deep standing water on the road.
DPG STATS
- DPG sits on 80 acres. That includes the building, road
course and off-road area.
- The road course takes up 40 acres, and the off-road
course sits on 35 acres.
- DPG was opened in 1989 and originally designed to
accommodate passenger car and motorcycle tire testing.
- A decade later, DPG became a motorcycle-tire-exclusive
testing facility.
- Numerous changes to the shop/office area and track
were implemented at that time.
- The short road handling course (also the portion used for
wet handling) is 0.5 mile.
- The long road course is 1.3 miles.
- Total asphalt surface length is 4.0 miles.
- The off-road area includes a 3.0 mile enduro (woods)
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Water displacement is key to wet-pavement grip, as
course, an outdoor-style national Motocross track and an
demonstrated here on the DPG wet track.
indoor-style Supercross track.
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A LASTING RELATIONSHIP
For over 30 years, our tire engineers have worked with Harley-Davidson to develop tires that
meet the stringent performance standards established by Harley-Davidson. And meeting
those parameters means Dunlop tires deliver excellent all-around performance under a
variety of riding conditions.
30 YEARS IN
THE MAKING
LATERAL-GRIP COMPOUND
LONG-WEARING
COMPOUND
Dunlop’s MT Multi-Tread rear tire incorporates a
long-wearing compound in the center of the tire tread
and a lateral-grip compound on each shoulder to enhance
cornering performance and feel.
Dunlop is the only tire company manufacturing motorcycle tires in North America—and that’s
an advantage that directly benefits American riders. We work diligently to develop tire
technology at our manufacturing facility in Buffalo, NY. We also refine new designs at the
Dunlop Proving Grounds in Alabama, and gather real-world input from sources as diverse as
professional AMA racing, amateur racing events and motorcycle rallies across the country.
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The 1980s
The 1990s
2000 - 2007
JULY 1981
JULY 1992
JUNE 2000
Dunlop awarded Sportster business
Intro of WWW on Heritage Softail
Co-Brand License Agreement signed
JULY 2000
JULY 1983
Dunlop awarded FL business,
Now 100 percent OE tire supplier
JULY 1995
Intro of Signature WWW
Debut of HD/Dunlop Tire Series at Denver, CO, Dealer Meeting
JULY 2002
Wider MU85B16 tires debut on FL
JULY 1997
JULY 2003
100th H-D Anniversary Dunlop
20 years exclusive OE tire supplier
Intro of K591 wide tire kit
JANUARY 1998
DECEMBER 1983
Dunlop signs first Master Supply Agreement
in H-D history
Dunlop passes CHP Police Tire testing
HARLEY-DAVIDSON
& DUNLOP
HAVE A LONG RELATIONSHIP
WORKING TOGETHER FOR
OVER 30 YEARS
2008-2012
NOW
JULY 2008
FL platform change: first MT
multi-tread tires ever on touring bike
FUTURE
APRIL 2013
NEXT 30 YEARS
HD 110th Anniversary / Dunlop Official Tire Sponsor
Collaboration with H-D on new innovations
JULY 2010
19” Touring Front introduced
JULY 2011
Dyna Switchback launched
JULY 2012
Sportster 72: First whitewall tire on XL
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UPCOMING EVENTS
AMA Pro Road Racing
July 12-14
Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course
Lexington, OH
Lucas Oil Pro Motocross
July 27
Spring Creek Motocross Park
Millville, MN
WORCS
August 9-11
Glen Helen Raceway
Devore, CA
GNCC
September 7-8
Unadilla Valley Sports Center
New Berlin, NY
WORCS
July 12-14
Pala Raceway
Pala, CA
32nd Annual AMA Amateur National
Motocross Championships
at Loretta Lynn's
July 28- August 3
Red Bull Indianapolis GP
August 16-18
Indianapolis Motor Speedway
Indianapolis, IN
AMA Pro Road Racing
September 13-15
New Jersey Motorsports Park
Millville, NJ
Red Bull U.S. Grand Prix
July 19-21
Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca
Monterey, CA
AMA Pro Road Racing
Miller Motorsports Park
August 2-4
Tooele, UT
Lucas Oil Pro Motocross
August 17
Miller Motorsports Park
Tooele, UT
WORCS
September 13-15
Honey Lake
Milford, CA
Lucas Oil Pro Motocross
July 20
Washougal MX Park
Washougal, WA
Lucas Oil Pro Motocross
August 10
Unadilla Valley Sports Center
New Berlin, NY
Lucas Oil Pro Motocross
August 24
Lake Elsinore Motorsports Park
Lake Elsinore, CA
GNCC
September 21-22
Riverstone Estate
Foxburg, PA
66th Annual Motocross of Nations
September 29
Teutschenthal, Germany
©2013 Dunlop • P. O. Box 1109, Buffalo, New York 14240-1109 • 1-800-845-8378 • dunlopmotorcycle.com