Vital MX Forum QNA: Shaun Simpson

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Shaun Simpson
Shaun Simpson 2/25/2016 1:24am
2/25/2016 1:24am
HenryA wrote:
Hey Shaun!

The KTM looks like a perfect fit for you, but what's the worst bike you have ever raced?
I would have to say the hardest year for me was 2013 when I rode the TM - We couldn't get the setup correct and I didn't gel with the bike. Tough times but we managed to come out of the other side and back to the top on the KTM where I feel more comfortable than ever.

Thanks Shaun
Shaun Simpson 2/25/2016 1:26am
2/25/2016 1:26am
Starcrossed wrote:
Hey Shaun, thanks for taking part in the QnA. I had a chance to say hello and take a couple pics at Unadilla. Congratulations on a...
Hey Shaun, thanks for taking part in the QnA. I had a chance to say hello and take a couple pics at Unadilla. Congratulations on a terrific performance. Do you have any plans to race any of the nationals in 2016?



Thanks for taking the time to say hello at Unadilla. At the moment we have a few free dates but are still trying to confirm if we can fit it in our schedule so as not to upset my GP training program. I would love to come back and race another AMA though. Watch this space.

Thanks Shaun
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Cliffy615 2/25/2016 1:48am
2/25/2016 1:48am
Hi Shaun, first of all solid ride at Hawky P was great to watch despite the weather and track conditions.

In my oppinion you are top 5 rider and capable of winning on any given day, why is it you havn't been snapped up by one of the big factory efforts?

Also how special is it to represent your country racing at the nations?

Cheers
Lowlander
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Lowlander 2/25/2016 2:01am
2/25/2016 2:01am
Hi Shaun,

Met you riding around on your pit bike in 2011 at the Fermo Italian GP when you rode for Honda. Was working out there at the time.

In practice and the first moto your bike was running terrible. Second moto you faired a lot better but looked down on power on the hills. But it was obvious there were issues with the bike and or team and the season of course would have been difficult

How disheartening is it when you know you are so far of the ball with regards to setup and how do you go about picking yourself up.

Cheers Kev
From Ayr.

The Shop

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Motofinne
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Motofinne 2/25/2016 4:38am
2/25/2016 4:38am
Hi Shaun! What are your thoughts about the current Qatar track? Qatar have unlimited amount of money, i feel like they could build an amazing track if not the best track in the world with all the resources they have!


Good luck in the 2016 season!
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nytsmaC 2/25/2016 7:46am
2/25/2016 7:46am
HenryA wrote:
Hey Shaun!

The KTM looks like a perfect fit for you, but what's the worst bike you have ever raced?
Shaun Simpson wrote:
I would have to say the hardest year for me was 2013 when I rode the TM - We couldn't get the setup correct and I...
I would have to say the hardest year for me was 2013 when I rode the TM - We couldn't get the setup correct and I didn't gel with the bike. Tough times but we managed to come out of the other side and back to the top on the KTM where I feel more comfortable than ever.

Thanks Shaun
I' ve always been curious, the MXGP TM's look very close to being completely stock bikes. Is that relatively true or are looks deceiving?

What part of the setup was your biggest hurdle?

Glad to see that you've been killing it since then.
Shaun Simpson 2/25/2016 12:05pm
2/25/2016 12:05pm
philG wrote:
When did you realise that you could win at your first MX1 overall at Lierop. Did it feel like a home GP.. i have never been...
When did you realise that you could win at your first MX1 overall at Lierop.

Did it feel like a home GP.. i have never been in a crowd like that.
I probably realised I could win the GP only after winning the the first moto. Half way there as they say. I knew I would need a strong moto 2. The track was tough that day and when I crossed the line to take 3rd in the moto and my first overall victory it was an amazing experience. Something I'll never forget. It will remain as one of the best motocross memories of all time for me. The support from the crowd was immense. I have never seen so many flags waving and people cheering in my life. It didn't matter who they were there to support, everyone gave me a cheer!

Thanks Shaun
Shaun Simpson 2/25/2016 12:09pm
2/25/2016 12:09pm
Sandwarrior752 wrote:
Hey Shaun, first of all thanks for the memories i was at Lierop when you won u'r first Gp! How did you become such an exceptional...
Hey Shaun, first of all thanks for the memories i was at Lierop when you won u'r first Gp!

How did you become such an exceptional sand rider ? And how was your experience doing the Unadilla National ? I was really stoked to see an Euro rider go over to the USA to race an outdoor round!
I would really put my sand riding skills down to practice. I have spent an endless number of hours training on sand tracks over the years and I think it has just paid off. Its obviously something I like riding too and I find that the rougher the better for me. Mainly because when its rough I dislike it more, therefor I know the other riders are hating it and I thrive on that fact and it really sorts the men from the boys.
Unadilla was suck a great experience, so pleased I made the decision to go over and do an AMA. Lets hope I can make it back this year!
Thanks, Shaun
Shaun Simpson 2/25/2016 12:14pm
2/25/2016 12:14pm
RG1 wrote:
Hi Shaun, great to see you here on Vital. I was fortunate enough to be at Blaxhall last season when you put on that incredible ride...
Hi Shaun, great to see you here on Vital. I was fortunate enough to be at Blaxhall last season when you put on that incredible ride from last to win the last moto, it was probably the best ride I have ever seen, you rode with so much confidence and aggression that day.

My question is, do you think that racing in the British Championship, winning a lot of races and being the best guy there week in-week out has helped you reach the level where you are challenging for GP wins and podiums each week? It's something I noticed with Max too that he seemed to gain confidence and win lots of GP's, I was just wondering what your thoughts are.

Cheers Shaun, best of luck in Qatar and for the entire 2016 season
I honestly think racing at any level its always a great feeling to see the finish flag first. Winning a moto wherever it may be boosts your confidence and pumps you up for more. I love riding the British Championship for that reason. Last year I was able to keep the ball rolling from my wins at the British in the the GP's. I think its a great touch for a top british rider to compete in the British Championship too as its great for the British fans to see their top riders compete in Britain at least once a month, rather than just at the British GP. It's tough to fit them all in but totally worth while. Thanks, Shaun
Shaun Simpson 2/25/2016 12:18pm
2/25/2016 12:18pm
DP#201 wrote:
Hi Shaun. What are your goals and expectations for 2016? And I think it was so cool to see you race a national last year. I...
Hi Shaun. What are your goals and expectations for 2016? And I think it was so cool to see you race a national last year. I be rooting for you in the GP's this year, go Shaun!!
I would only like to improve on last season. This is in the grand scheme of things no easy task, but if I can start the season strong this weekend in Qatar and keep picking away at results within the top 5 I would be happy with that, consistency is key and I wan to be there until the last round. Be there every week and you'll be in with a shout! Thanks for the support! Shaun
Shaun Simpson 2/25/2016 12:22pm
2/25/2016 12:22pm
LittleDragon wrote:
Hi Shaun thanks for joining us. My wife really wants to go vacation in Scotland and even though she is ALWAYS right, and I mean always...
Hi Shaun thanks for joining us. My wife really wants to go vacation in Scotland and even though she is ALWAYS right, and I mean always, I have to admit I am hoping we can make it.

Who was your favorite rider/riders growing up?

How hard is it to get Celtic tickets?

Are Kilts mandatory?
First of all - Holiday in Scotland, Great choice. Im sure you would really enjoy it. Such beautiful place.
Growing up riding I always looked up to guys like Joel Smets and Jeremy McGrath. I spent hours watching VCR copies of recorded Gp's and Supercross races just hoping one day I could be a guy that made it to that level.
Tickets shouldn't be hard to get, But get in the the spirit of things and get a kilt too. I want to see pictures!
Thanks shaun
Muscle-Milk-KTM 2/25/2016 12:30pm
2/25/2016 12:30pm
Muscle-Milk-KTM wrote:
Hi Shaun Do you miss racing a 2 stroke & do you ever ride one for fun? Does Herlings still wear a Leatt neck brace? Great...
Hi Shaun

Do you miss racing a 2 stroke & do you ever ride one for fun?

Does Herlings still wear a Leatt neck brace?

Great ride at the recent Hawkstone International. I'll be cheering you on this year for sure.
Shaun Simpson wrote:
Good question, I haven't rode a 2 stroke fire ages! I really need to get one for fun riding and see what I think to it...
Good question, I haven't rode a 2 stroke fire ages! I really need to get one for fun riding and see what I think to it again. I'm sure it would be strange as I really enjoy the torque of the 4 stroke so I'd have to watch out for the 2 stroke snap... I'm sure I'd be ok...

For some reason JH84 has stopped using his Leatt Neck Brace. I still feel as comfortable and protected as ever wearing mine so I'll continue as usual.

Thanks

Shaun
Thanks for the reply.

One last question: who was the best sand rider at the 2012 MXON, JH84 or AC222?
Shaun Simpson 2/25/2016 12:30pm
2/25/2016 12:30pm
Cliffy615 wrote:
Hi Shaun, first of all solid ride at Hawky P was great to watch despite the weather and track conditions. In my oppinion you are top...
Hi Shaun, first of all solid ride at Hawky P was great to watch despite the weather and track conditions.

In my oppinion you are top 5 rider and capable of winning on any given day, why is it you havn't been snapped up by one of the big factory efforts?

Also how special is it to represent your country racing at the nations?

Cheers
This is still a question that is yet to be answered and we may never know exactly the reasons for it, but what I do know is that I'm as happy as I have ever been in my new team for 2016 and we have the tools to do great things. There is still a big part of me that likes banging in the results from a non factory team. Motocross is a tough sport and has a great deal to do with the bike but ultimately if you get you bike close there is more the guy on the seat can do to make things happen. Its a great game. I believe in 2016 we will not be far away...
Riding at the MXDN is something that can only be described as a dream for a rider. It's probably as close it would feel like to being in the Olympics representing your country and something that totally caps off the season. Such great event with the craziest of fans and atmospheres.
Thanks, Shaun.
Shaun Simpson 2/25/2016 12:36pm
2/25/2016 12:36pm
Lowlander wrote:
Hi Shaun, Met you riding around on your pit bike in 2011 at the Fermo Italian GP when you rode for Honda. Was working out there...
Hi Shaun,

Met you riding around on your pit bike in 2011 at the Fermo Italian GP when you rode for Honda. Was working out there at the time.

In practice and the first moto your bike was running terrible. Second moto you faired a lot better but looked down on power on the hills. But it was obvious there were issues with the bike and or team and the season of course would have been difficult

How disheartening is it when you know you are so far of the ball with regards to setup and how do you go about picking yourself up.

Cheers Kev
From Ayr.
Its a tough one. Knowing when you line up at the start that your setup isn't 100% is never a great feeling but when it happens week in week out its hard to motivate yourself during the week and especially at the weekends. As they say, sometimes it gets worse before it gets better and there was some bad times but the strong fight on and never give up. There are many times where I could have thrown in the towel but in the end I've came through it and out the other side. Hard work pays off 99% of the time, its just a matter of putting in the time. I have been very lucky that my dad has been a big part of my career and he helped me through... You need people in your corner but your still the one that has to do the work.

Thanks Shaun
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Sidecar 2/25/2016 12:56pm
2/25/2016 12:56pm
Sidecar wrote:
Hey Shaun... When you gonna man up and get on a sidecar? Be good to see you on one at Weston.....
Shaun Simpson wrote:
I have actually tried this before, brutal! I tried riding it and on the side... I was useless at both... I'll leave riding sidecars to the...
I have actually tried this before, brutal! I tried riding it and on the side... I was useless at both... I'll leave riding sidecars to the pros...

Thanks
Shaun
Good to hear you gave it a try.... And brutal is about the only word that describes it Smile

Thanks for the reply and good luck this year.
Rowlands
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Rowlands 2/25/2016 1:08pm
2/25/2016 1:08pm Edited Date/Time 2/25/2016 1:13pm
Hi Shaun big fan here

Do you like us fans giving you some gentle encouragement from the sidelines ?

Do you actually notice people cheering and winding you on or are you 100% focused on the riding?
THE mx addict 2/25/2016 1:53pm
2/25/2016 1:53pm
Hi Shaun...

What's the main reason you decided to switch from team Hitachi KTM to STR KTM for 2016, as they are both british KTM mounted squads ?

Good luck for the opener this week-end!
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RG1 2/25/2016 1:59pm
2/25/2016 1:59pm
RG1 wrote:
Hi Shaun, great to see you here on Vital. I was fortunate enough to be at Blaxhall last season when you put on that incredible ride...
Hi Shaun, great to see you here on Vital. I was fortunate enough to be at Blaxhall last season when you put on that incredible ride from last to win the last moto, it was probably the best ride I have ever seen, you rode with so much confidence and aggression that day.

My question is, do you think that racing in the British Championship, winning a lot of races and being the best guy there week in-week out has helped you reach the level where you are challenging for GP wins and podiums each week? It's something I noticed with Max too that he seemed to gain confidence and win lots of GP's, I was just wondering what your thoughts are.

Cheers Shaun, best of luck in Qatar and for the entire 2016 season
Shaun Simpson wrote:
I honestly think racing at any level its always a great feeling to see the finish flag first. Winning a moto wherever it may be boosts...
I honestly think racing at any level its always a great feeling to see the finish flag first. Winning a moto wherever it may be boosts your confidence and pumps you up for more. I love riding the British Championship for that reason. Last year I was able to keep the ball rolling from my wins at the British in the the GP's. I think its a great touch for a top british rider to compete in the British Championship too as its great for the British fans to see their top riders compete in Britain at least once a month, rather than just at the British GP. It's tough to fit them all in but totally worth while. Thanks, Shaun
Thanks for taking the time to reply Shaun. Good luck this weekend

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colintrax
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colintrax 2/25/2016 2:35pm
2/25/2016 2:35pm
Hi Shaun,
I know you've answered alot of questions about racing here, however I'm curious what changes did you have to make to the bike to race unadilla? Is your MXGP bike noticeably better?
Thank you for coming on here, and good luck this season. Hope to see ya back in America
jeffro503
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jeffro503 2/25/2016 2:58pm
2/25/2016 2:58pm
Holy shit! Shaun Simpson in the house! No real questions Shaun , just a big fan and am glad to see you here. Good luck this season man!
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Motoxdoc 2/25/2016 4:48pm
2/25/2016 4:48pm Edited Date/Time 2/25/2016 4:53pm
No question here either. Just wanted to say your rides in Lierop and I believe it was that man made Holland track were absolutely spectacular! And you didn't just get holeshots and run away from everyone....you sliced and diced your way to the front, and it was really fun to watch.....Loved the helmet cam footage of that Dutch qualifier!...I'm a fan of all motocrossers but every once in a while someone uncorks a ride that stands above the rest...Cheers to you for being that someone on those 2 weekends. I want to see you put the entire series together this year...Good luck!

PS- I don't want to put any pressure on you or anything, but I'll just finish with this.......Southwick?!

edit: guess I did have a question afterall.
MagMx08
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MagMx08 2/26/2016 8:25am
2/26/2016 8:25am
Hi shaun, thanks for taking the time to do this on the run up to Qatar. It's not so much a question either but just wanna say I'm a big fan and have been since you raced Irish champs. Was only young then dressed in my much loved wulf sport jacket haha, used to always speak to you and you always had the time to talk back so just wanted to say thanks, it's much appreciated. Looking back to then you've come along way to get to where you are, congratulation and keep up the hard work! I'll always be cheering you on! Best of luck this weekend and the rest of the 2016 season and many more in the future. Mark
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Whip 2/26/2016 10:54am
2/26/2016 10:54am
Hey Shaun,

How's your relationship with Searle? Does it annoy you that he acts like he's the best British rider when clearly you are, as you've won multiple GP MX1 overalls and dominated the British for the past few years?

Cheers, and good luck in Qatar!
Robgvx
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Robgvx 2/26/2016 12:26pm
2/26/2016 12:26pm
Some of the best replies I've seen from a pro rider.

Nice work Shaun.

Give my regards to Willie and Vanda.

Rob A
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yak651 2/26/2016 7:31pm
2/26/2016 7:31pm
No question, just saying congrats on your great season and think it's cool you came over to the US to race a national. Hope you can make it over for another and good luck for continual success in the upcoming years!
joshua.cowin 2/27/2016 1:39am
2/27/2016 1:39am
Hi Shaun great to see you getting involved with the fans. It seems like really have the hang of sand riding and showing everyone in the mxgp class how to ride the soft stuff (and your performance at hawkstone,bloody fast) what makes you feel more comfortable on sand than other riders?
Cashmore
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Cashmore 2/28/2016 11:54am
2/28/2016 11:54am
Not really a question, however I look forward to seeing you back in the U.S

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