Quick Poll: U.S. Rider Participation in the USGP 13

We did some polling around the pit area Saturday in Houston among the riders and teams to find out where they're at on their thinking regarding participation in the USGP. As you might imagine, opinions ran the gamut from full speed ahead, to wait and see, to flat-out, "No way"...and tended to stray from the mid-to-latter. Some riders actually aren't all that fond of the Glen Helen and were happy with the news that it had been dropped from the U.S. calendar, while at least one team manager we talked to said, "It's a shame it's not on the National schedule. That's real motocross."

With it falling just after the first round of the AMA National Series, many of the teams didn't think the cost and risks involved were a worthwhile thing for something that is not among their season goals. Several of them mentioned the short notice as a factor in their decisions.

One thing you will see are lots of the team semis on hand to support their European counterparts. The European factory teams have generally provided lots of support to the Team USA members of the MXoN during their visits overseas.

Here's a quick look at where some of the teams stand...and remember, this could change.

KTM: The North American branch of the Austrian brand has already confirmed that Tommy Searle and Mike Alessi will be in for the weekend. (It'll be interesting to see if they stick with their U.S. spec bikes, or add in some extra Works goodies.)

Rockstar Makita Suzuki: They'll be on hand to support Teka Rockstar Suzuki, but it's unlikely you'll see Ryan Dungey.

Honda Red Bull Racing: Undecided at this point, but you can expect that they'll at least provide some logistical support for the European teams.

Monster Energy Kawasaki: Put them at 50/50 at the moment. It sounds like their initial thought was to skip it, but apparently the more they've talked about it, it's sounding a little more enticing. (Monster may be interested in having them participate.) Likely that the Team Green rig will support the European Kawasaki Racing Team.

San Manuel / Yamaha / JSE: They're still awaiting the return of James Stewart, and apparently he hasn't started riding yet while his wrist heals.

Valli Motorsports Rockstar Yamaha: Tedesco for sure not (he's not a fan of the track). Undecided for Kyle Regal. They'll likely have Kyle Summers under their tent for the race. He's interested in a 2011 ride in Europe, and wouldn't mind some face time with the European team managers.

JGRMX Toyota/Muscle Milk/Yamaha: No.

GEICO Powersports Honda: They'll know more in seven days. Some of their riders have expressed an interest in racing.

Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki: Undecided (but also waiting to hear what Kawasaki wants them to do). They'll be on hand to support CLS Kawasaki. Christophe Pourcel said he'll probably go to watch his brother, Sebastien, but didn't sound interested in racing it.

Rockstar Energy Suzuki: No.

Star Racing: Broc Tickle is interested in racing and will likely be there.

Nick Wey is interested in participating.

Suzuki City/Nitro Circus: Maybe.

We know that some other teams have been contacted about providing support for visiting teams. We'll update you on those as we find out more.