Posts
221
Joined
12/7/2017
Location
San Luis Obispo, CA, USA
Edited Date/Time
1/4/2019 3:56pm
I've been giving this a little bit of thought- mind you maybe not great thoughts, but thoughts none-the-less.
As Supercross season is getting ready to start are there some simple ways to give privateers at least a fighting chance against the factory bikes. I already get it that the factory riders are factory riders because they are the best, but put those best riders on the best bikes and the privateer doesn't stand a chance.
There are some simple things that would help. Not in any particular order.
1. No "development" tires. All riders have access to the same manufacturer tire whether it's Bridgestone, Dunlop, Pirelli, etc. All the tires a production models.
2. No more PRO6 VP fuel- it's too expensive (15 gallon drum is $588) and that fuel probably allows the factories to build an engine that is way more powerful than what the privateer can afford/manage. Everyone runs T4.
3. All entered riders are allowed on press day practice.
4. Maximum of 3 motors per team that are sealed. You're penalized points if you need additional motors. Doesn't include clutches.
As Supercross season is getting ready to start are there some simple ways to give privateers at least a fighting chance against the factory bikes. I already get it that the factory riders are factory riders because they are the best, but put those best riders on the best bikes and the privateer doesn't stand a chance.
There are some simple things that would help. Not in any particular order.
1. No "development" tires. All riders have access to the same manufacturer tire whether it's Bridgestone, Dunlop, Pirelli, etc. All the tires a production models.
2. No more PRO6 VP fuel- it's too expensive (15 gallon drum is $588) and that fuel probably allows the factories to build an engine that is way more powerful than what the privateer can afford/manage. Everyone runs T4.
3. All entered riders are allowed on press day practice.
4. Maximum of 3 motors per team that are sealed. You're penalized points if you need additional motors. Doesn't include clutches.
3 engines per rider or Team ? that is a non issue I doubt they change engines that often on race days in SX.
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However, I totally agree with fuel and tire rules. I’ve posted many times myself that I want a production tire rule and a much cheaper spec fuel. Maybe something with lesser aditivies so teams with large amounts of dyno and R&D time can’t perfect an ECU to take advantage of great fuel.
Remember the IROC races in NASCAR? Everyone got the same equipment. Why can’t that be a thing for moto? For moto, everyone rides a production bike. May the best manufacturer win (and we all benefit from that because we would probably end up with even better bikes).
$39.2 per gallon.
How many gallons do you go thru in a weekend between practices & the races?
I suspect in the long game, fuel is a very minor expense.
You don't have to put in a production tire rule, just that all tires are accessible to all riders in the series.
Pit Row
We have seen a privateer excel when the factory has to fill in a spot with a better bike setup and better practice sessions away from the races during the week.
It helps quite a bit to bring them up another level in the results and maybe another chance for a seat the following year.
That’s why only a small percentage make it.
If you're a true privateer and want to race the Florida National on June 22nd, we have a place for you - if you need support. We have two spare rooms, a private bathroom, private practice track, and North Florida MX (3 miles from here). We also have a 30 amp hook up for your camper - should you so desire. We will charge you nothing and provide meals, showers, clothes washing machines, etc. As I said above, there are two spare bedrooms. In one, there's a queen bed for a couple. In the other is a futon for your mechanic or friend. PM here if you're interested. We are located about forty minutes from WW.
No, we're not serial killers or twisted freaks - just quiet folks that love moto and love to support the backbone of pro racing - privateers.
No factory mechanics at the first turn or spotters on the track.
Starting positions by lottery out of a hat right before the Moto.
No provisional crap. You don't make the main, you don't make the main.
I dunno guys, all these bits and pieces, imho, won't change much.
The thing the top guys have is consistency. Every week, good equipment. Every week, a solid training routine.
Every week, a paycheck. Every week, riding as much as they want. Every week a flight to the track. Every week
mechanics keeping your bikes in top shape.
Sure, a really good rider might have a good day every now and then. But, there is so much to do, so much to look after
at that level, it's no wonder Johnny Average rarely pops a good finish. I think that's what Reeds problem was when he was running his own show.
Agreed, there are a few that come down the pike now and then that have so much talent they will make the grade no matter what. McGrath. RC. Stewart to name a few. But, given the factory treatment, unless you are a never will squid,
I believe there are a lot of guys that could make the top.
That's what I think anyway.
Old Blood, you really shouldn’t drink and post. It never works out well for you.
Run this class at the pro nationals. Stepping stone class. Feeder for the lights.....
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