Ben Townley was running fourth in the first moto when he suffered a crash in the whoops before the end of the opening lap. Ben was very sore and did not race the second moto. Fortunately, nothing is broken. Ben suffered a bruised shoulder and is still quite sore from the crash, but says that he expects to be 100% for Unadilla.

“Yeah, Washougal wasn’t so good for me,” said Townley. “My shoulder is sore but I’ll rehabilitate it over the next two weeks and I will be ready for Unadilla.”

places and had to retire for the day. Cole is doing phenomenally well, and not only does he plan on being ready for Unadilla, he’s still planning on racing at the X-Games in the “speed and style” event this Saturday.

Also returning to the action at Unadilla will be the number 49 of Wil Hahn. After a great start to the season, Wil suffered a shoulder injury during practice before the Lakewood National.

The team is in Los Angeles right now getting ready for X Games 16. Tara Gieger will be racing Women’s SX, and Cole Seely will be racing Speed and Style.

Related posts:

1. Troy Lee Designs Cole Seely Wraps Up Impressive Season in Las Vegas
2. Tanel Leok Injury Update
3. TLD / Lucas Oil / Honda’s Ben Townley Signing Autographs at Anaheim This Weekend

From July 29 to Aug. 1, ESPN will celebrate its 16th annual action sports event entirely downtown between the STAPLES Center, Nokia Theatre, the Los Angeles Coliseum and L.A. LIVE. The 2010 event marks the seventh consecutive year that the X Games will take place in Los Angeles. Thirty-one hours of live HD programming on ESPN and ESPN2 will be aired over the four days of the event, as well as on ESPN International, ESPN.com\action, ESPN Classic, ESPN3.com, and SportsCenter, a 14 hour increase from last year’s broadcast schedule which reached 44 million viewers worldwide.

The Muscle Milk/Toyota/JGRMX Team has visited the Summer X Games each year since the team’s formation in 2008. While the primary goal of the team is to contest the AMA Supercross Championship and Pro Motocross Championship series the size of the X Games audience is too large to ignore for the sponsor-funded enterprise. “Two wheels or four, our family business is dependent on exposure for our sponsors,” said Coy Gibbs, owner of the motocross division of Joe Gibbs Racing which also fields a three-car championship NASCAR effort. “The amount of exposure we can generate during X Games adds tremendous value to our sponsors while at the same time promoting our athletes to a worldwide audience.”

After a seven year hiatus X Games returns to the Los Angeles Coliseum, the birthplace of supercross. Josh Grant and Justin Brayton will contest the Super X event July 29 with live coverage for the final on ESPN starting at approximately 8:45 p.m. (EST). Josh Grant will also compete in the Best Whip competition July 30, with live coverage of the final beginning at approximately 9:30 p.m. (EST).

Related posts:

1. MEDIA FOLLOWS FIOLEK TO X GAMES
2. ESPN X Games Announces Equal Prize Money for Men and Women
3. Carmichael to Step it Up at X Games

Dehydration, as you can imagine, occurs when the amount of water leaving the body is greater than the amount being taken in. The human body is very dynamic and always changing, this is especially true with water levels in the body. We lose water routinely when we:

• breathe and humidified air leaves the body
• sweat to cool the body
• urinate or have a bowel movement to rid the body of waste products

Mild Dehydration is present when a loss of 1-2% of the total body water volume exists. Mild Dehydration can lead to moodiness and poor concentration. In a normal day, a person needs to drink a significant amount of water to replace this routine loss. Each person’s requirements vary but the suggested average is eight 8oz glasses of water.

For this article we will focus on sweating as the main cause of dehydration. However, mild to severe Dehydration can be a symptom of many other causes including but not limited to Diarrhea.

When we exercise, the body will lose significant amounts of water when it tries to cool itself by sweating. Whether the body is hot because of intense exercising, the environment (for example, working in a warm environment), it uses a significant amount of water in the form of sweat to cool itself. The body keeps cool by circulating blood to the skin, where water is lost from the blood in the form of sweat. When sweat evaporates, it cools the skin. This in turn cools the blood that is carried to the body core. Depending upon weather conditions, a brisk walk can generate up to 16 ounces of sweat (one pound of water!).

The body’s initial responses to dehydration are thirst to increase water intake along with decreased urine output to try to conserve water. The urine will become concentrated and more yellow in color – a good sign it’s time to drink more water. As the level of water loss increases, more symptoms can become apparent, such as increased thirst, dry mouth, cessation of tear production by the eyes, cessation of sweating , muscle cramps, nausea and vomiting, heart palpitations, and lightheadedness (especially when standing).

In cases of severe dehydration, confusion and weakness will occur as the brain and other body organs receive less blood. Finally, coma and organ failure will occur if the dehydration remains untreated.

Dehydration symptoms generally become more noticeable after 2% of one’s normal water volume has been lost. Initially, one experiences thirst and discomfort, possibly along with loss of appetite and dry skin. This can be followed by constipation. Athletes may suffer a loss of performance of up to 30% and experience flushing, low endurance, rapid heart rates, elevated body temperatures, and rapid onset of fatigue.

Symptoms of mild dehydration include thirst, decreased urine volume, abnormally dark urine, unexplained tiredness, irritability, lack of tears when crying, headache, dry mouth, dizziness when standing due to orthostatic hypotension, and in some cases can cause insomnia. As mentioned, mild dehydration also has been shown to negatively impact people’s moods. Symptoms become increasingly severe with greater water loss. One’s heart and respiration rates begin to increase to compensate for decreased plasma volume and blood pressure, while body temperature may rise because of decreased sweating.

At around 5% to 6% water loss, one may become groggy or sleepy, experience nausea, and may feel tingling in one’s limbs, headaches similar to what is experienced during a hangover, muscle cramps -especially leg cramps, a sudden episode of visual snow, decreased blood pressure. When untreated, dehydration generally results in delirium, unconsciousness, swelling of the tongue and, in extreme cases, death.

With 10% to 15% fluid loss, muscles may become spastic, skin may shrivel and wrinkle, vision may dim, urination will be greatly reduced and may become painful, and delirium may begin. Losses greater than 15% are usually fatal.

What Can You Do To Avoid Dehydration?

• Replace fluids at a rate that equals the loss.
• Plan ahead and take extra water when temperatures are higher than normal, heat stress will increase fluid loss.
• Avoid alcohol consumption, especially when it is very hot, because alcohol increases water loss and impairs your ability to recognize early signs associated with dehydration.
• Take more breaks to reduce your exposure to hot temperatures. Find air-conditioned or shady areas and allow yourself to cool between motos.
• Know the signs and symptoms of heat cramps, heat rash, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. Preventing dehydration is one step to avoid these conditions.

During the Chicago heat wave of 1995, more than 600 people died in their homes from heat exposure. And they were most likely not riding dirt bikes!

How is Dehydration Treated?

Fluid replacement is the treatment for dehydration. This may be attempted by replacing fluid by mouth, but if this fails, intravenous fluid (IV) may be required. Should oral re-hydration be attempted, frequent small amounts of clear fluids should be used.

Clear fluids include:

• Water
• Sports drinks – Pedialyte, Gatorade, Powerade, etc.
• clear broths – Chicken Noodle Soup
• popsicles
• Jell-O

How serious is Dehydration?

Complications that may occur include:

• kidney failure
• shock
• heat-related illnesses (heat exhaustion or heat stroke)
• electrolyte abnormalities
• coma

Related posts:

1. The Importance of Hydration
2. Kidney Belts – Should You Be Wearing One?
3. Yamaha: Business Condition Worrisome

Renthal will have a complete inventory of handlebars, chainwheels, grips, chain and accessories for all support riders who will be attending the event.  All participants of the event are welcome to stop by and check out all the products on display.

For more information about Renthal’s amateur support program, please visit www.renthalsupport.com or contact us at (877) 736-8125, or via e-mail, info@renthalsupport.com.

Related posts:

1. Renthal Support on Location at Loretta’s
2. Be Sure to Check Out the Updated Renthal.com Website
3. Shock Doctor Keeps Riders Safe at MX Sports’ Amateur Motocross Championships at the Loretta Lynn Ranch

Take a look at this video preview of the 2011 Fly Racing Gear

Related posts:

1. AMA Creates Video Spot Opposing Lead Law
2. “Fly Focus” Video Interview with Andrew Short
3. 2011 Monster Energy AMA Supercross Schedule

Each and every August the Amateur Motocross scene must wave goodbye to several talented riders as they make the move into the pro ranks of the sport. With the AMA Amateur National Championship at the legendary Loretta Lynn Ranch quickly approaching in just one month, we caught up with a few of these graduating riders to get some of their thoughts on their Amateur careers and see what their plans are for the rest of the summer. Brandon Mays was one of them.

When did you start riding and who got you involved with it?
Started riding at about 7.3 years old and my dad got me involved with this addiction

First bike?
KTM Jr

What do you see as your biggest accomplishment from your Amateur career?
15 championships but there will be more after Loretta’s

Best memory?
This girl I had in my motorhome

Who is/has been your biggest influence?
Josh Lichtle

What classes will you be racing at Loretta’s and what are your goals for that race?
250 A and 250 A Prosport, win both

What are your plans following Loretta’s – Will you be racing any of the remaining Nationals?
The last 4 Nationals

It’s a bigger jump for some more than others, how do you feel heading into the pro ranks? Nervous, excited, just ready to go?
Excited, ready to throw down.

How’s your fitness? How will you handle the longer races (30 min. +2)?
I guess we will find out.

Plans for next year? Anything lined up?
Yea, the number one plate

Lastly, anyone you’d like to thank?
Fox, Spy, Redbull, H.O.T., Renthal/Twin Air, Dunlop, 11/10 Mods, Arc, Kilbarger Racing, Renegade Fuel, Motor X, Cycra, N Style, Hinson Clutch, Hammerhead, Chad Sanner, 50/50 Konvict Records, my family.

Related posts:

1. Class of 2010 – Interview with Ian Trettel
2. Interview of the Week – Les Smith of Honda of Troy/Kilbarger Racing
3. Dragon Racing Fuels Announces 2010 Amateur Contingency Program

Four strokes are here to stay and there is no arguing the fact that they are far easier to to ride. The power delivery is much more manageable which lets the rider go longer with less fatigue. Having said that, whenever you hear someone speaking about a bike they have just ridden for the first time, invariably you hear the reference to a 2 stroke motor. Statements like “it’s really snappy, it feels just like a 2 stroke”. Here’s a news flash, it can never respond like a 2 stroke. No matter how snappy the manufacturers make it feel. Beyond the mechanical aspects, the two motors feel completely different when riding and when sitting in the pits.

From a technical standpoint, a 4t motor has a counter balancer which makes the engine feel as smooth as silk. But it has a pile of compression, with a typical compression ratio being 11.5:1 or higher. This is why when you are riding along and close the throttle it feels like you are hitting the brakes. It makes riding 4t in the sand a total nightmare but it makes down hill right hand turns a breeze.

On the other hand, a 2t revs super fast because it has no counter balancer and a much lower compression ratio of 8.5:1. 2t’s also have a flywheel to keep the engine spinning which makes for little to no engine braking. Power delivery can be adjusted by adding weight to the flywheel making a 2t motor behave or feel more like a 4t motor. You still don’t get the engine braking though.

From a seat-of-the-pants perspective, a 4t feels like it is making power from the moment the engine is turned on to the point where the rev limiter kicks in.

Whereas a 2t feels like you are making no power until you get to the power band at which point it feels like someone has flipped a switch to ignite a rocket ship. Very exciting but can be difficult to control.

If you get around a group of guys who ride, for long enough, you are bound to hear an argument or two about which is faster a 2t or a 4t. Take a look at Thumpertalk sometime, it’s like a rivalry; the 2t’s against the 4t’s. Everyone seems to have a theory on this, from the fastest guy at track to the slowest guy at the track. People who have never even ridden a 2t even get into the thick of it. Even we, the humble fools at EDM sit around talking about what type of motor we are faster on. The topic of doing a comparison test has come up several times in many of these conversations. But the question was always how do we get a 2t that could be competitive with a current model 4t? We could do it with 250′s? but would that be fair? A 250 2t makes far more power that a 250 4t. Or should we use a 125 2t and a 250 4t. But that wouldn’t be fair either because a 125 2t power band is skinnier than Kate Moss.

We found our solution to this question by talking to the folks at Service Honda. A company that actually makes a current, as in 2008 2 stroke. The tricky part is they use a 500cc motor. This is good because we can use it against the 450 in the comparison as in “open class” This is bad because this motor produces a mind blowing 65hp making it a potential handful to manage on the track. The 2008 450 makes a healty 52hp and few riders truly have the skills to utilize all of it. We were looking forward to a few exciting days of riding in the near future.

Every motor from Service Honda is hand built from individually purchased parts to build a 1998 model motor. Complete CR500 motors haven’t been around for years. All of the assembly is done at the Service Honda shop in Hammond, Indiana by two technicians. They assemble about 1,000 motors per year and carefully wedge them into the rolling chassis from a current Honda CRF250R. This process requires them to modify the stock aluminum frame to accommodate the CR500 motor, exhaust pipe and radiators. But everything else remains the same, 2008 Showa suspension front and rear. Super stiff, narrow aluminum frame with current geometry and ergonomics plus current plastics and seating configuration. Are we making our point here?

After some discussion with the Chief Technician at Service Honda, AJ Waggoner. It was decided the we would do a comparison test between a 2008 Service Honda 500AF (evidently Honda Motorcycle Corp doesn’t want them to use the CR designation) and our 2008 CRF450R. What follows is our experiences while doing the comparison.

After some consideration, it was decided we would take both bikes to 2 different tracks, one fast open track and one tight slower track and time riders on each bike for 5 laps. We wanted to be able to let riders ride in consistent, same day conditions.

For the track segment we contacted AMB-it (Identification and Timing) for their lap timing equipment. AMB has a system that utilizes a transponder unit which sends a signal each time the unit crosses the sensor or “pickup” that is placed under the ground across a section of the track.

A decoder (the red box in the photo) takes this information and either stores it for later download or displays it real time on your laptop computer and is accurate to .001s. AMB-it really made our lives easy with this system. All we had to do was plug everything in, zip tie the transponder to the test bikes and start riding laps. If you have a local track and want to keep track of your lap times, the AMB-it system simply rocks. They even have something called MyLaps where you can go online and check your lap times from previous events. If you want to improve, the only way to truly gauge improvement is by checking for faster lap times, either on the track or on the trails. Supercross uses AMB-it systems for scoring, amateur GNCC and Hare Scrambles racers should be familiar with the system, they have been using it for years. Amateur MX hasn’t caught on except at larger event like Loretta’s.

Back to the bikes. We started our testing at Iron City MX in Blacksburg, SC. IC is a pretty fast, wide track with small elevation changes, mostly 3rd gear with a few second gear sections. There are no power robbing sections but it can get slick. The track and conditions shouldn’t favor one bike over the other. Conditions were good with a few muddy sections and deep ruts in most of the corners. Lap times on this track are in the mid to high 1:20′s for someone like P.J. Larsen. These times will obviously vary depending on conditions but it should give an idea of where we stood. Aschmann and Segal were testing this day for us. On the 500af Aschmann was running pretty consistently at 2:00, Segal was running a bit slower at (with a cough) 2:18 on the 500af. On the 450F Aschmann was running about 3 seconds per lap faster at 1:57. Segal was also running faster laps on the 450 with an average lap time of 2:14.

The next track for testing was Mike Andrews MX in Concord, NC. Mikes is a tight, technical track that requires a good sense of timing and a set of balls for a couple of the jumps. The dirt is loamy in most sections, forming good ruts in corners with a few hard packed hard sections that can get slick on warm, dry days. The day of testing the air was cool and moist, conditions at Mike’s were about as good as they get. Neither bike should have an advantage here.

Our testers at Mike’s were Paul Aschmann, Mike Andrews and a few laps from an injured Tom Kraft. Segal was out with a calf injury. Mike says a fast lap at his place by a fast pro is in the low to mid 1:30′s he is running an average of 1:37.64 on this day on the 450. When he takes the 500 out he runs an average 1:41.45 for a differrence of 3.8 seconds. Next rider up is Aschmann. His five lap average on the 450 is 1:45.73. On the 500 his average is 147.32. A much closer difference of 1.59 seconds. Our last tester for the day was Tom K who, as mentioned earlier had an injury to his groin so he was not riding at 100%. He was still able to manage a respectable average on the 450 of 1:45.61. On the 500 he averaged 148.58 putting him at 2.96 seconds a lap slower.

So what did we find out from this test? Firstly, being familiar and comfortable on the bike you are riding is key to going fast. All of the testers in this evaluation have riden and owned 2t bikes but none of them ride one currently. As we mentioned at the beginning of the article, each bike requires a certain style of riding and a rider must be used to this style in order to ride fast. Given the chance to ride the 500af for several days to re-devlope 2t cornering technique, our testers times would likely have been much closer on each bike.

Taking this into consideration, all of the lap times were surprisingly close. Second, more power does not mean faster. To be able to capitalize on peak power output a rider must be capable of dealing with that level of power. Third the Service Honda 500af is an amazing bike with a frightening amount of power that if respected is a peach to ride. Just don’t ride it at the end of the day when you are exhausted. You want to be at the top of your game when you climb aboard.

Taking to the trails.
We have access to an amazing network of trails very near to us in Blacksburg, SC so a trip there on the 500 was in order. Most of these trails are 2nd gear, tight single track lined with trees and a few rocks strew about for good measure with some first gear hill climbs and turns. Riding the 500 in here was a dream! Shift into second and leave it there was the motto. First gear had the front coming up every 3 seconds, second had it coming up every 5. It was such fun to flick the 203 lb. bike around and have all the power and torque of an XR600. If you are not looking to race and are not worried about being the fastest guy out there. The 500af from Service Honda could just be the most fun on wheels you can get. Think about it, low maintenance 2t motor with killer suspension and great ergonomics. What more could you ask for?

Opinions:

Paul Aschmann:
The 500AF is really fun, it has plenty of power, turns on a dime, the suspension is plush and in my book is the perfect bike – if you can hold onto it!.

The first time I threw a leg over the bike a couple of friends mentioned things like “uncontrollable”, “wheelie machine”, “bucking bronco” just to name a few, but in my eyes the bike was actually fairly pleasant. While riding the bike for the first few motos you find yourself holding on for dear life and end up with excessive arm pump but the fun really starts when you relax and ride the bike in a controlled and smooth fashion. It’s one of the bikes that make you feel like you are going slowly on but when you look at your lap times and they are just about equivalent to your own bike. I was surprised.

After riding 4 strokes for the better part of the last 4 years you really appreciate the smell of premix, high revving engines and people turning their heads, and although the 500 doesn’t have a power band per se, it definitely feels like it has one. It comes on around ¼ – 2/3 throttle and hits pretty hard.

Something that I didn’t enjoy about the bike was the gearing. I found it far from perfect for a MX track, 2nd seemed to be too much and 3rd too little. I couldn’t push the bike through a bermed turn in 3rd but 2nd caused the bike to be a little skittish. But this could easily be remedied however.

From a positive aspect the bikes’ power is more usable than a lot of people might think, but as mentioned, it does require you to have very smooth and precise throttle control.

Turning is great on the bike, it has the ability to hold tight lines and because of the power doesn’t require you to keep your momentum up like on a smaller bike. The bike really felt at home on a GP style MX track, the flowing turns and long straights really let you open it up and appreciate the bikes ability to go fast. The suspension was setup well enough to climb on and go without having too much difficulty adapting. Another item well worth investing in would be a oversize front rotor, stopping all that power with stock brakes became a challenge. Other than that, it’s the perfect /all-purpose/ bike.

Benjamin Segal:
This bike rocks! I am the kind of guy who likes a novelty ride and the 500 fits right in there. I’d like to take it to the desert and let it run. It’s kind of crazy to say that and at the same time think about how much fun it is to ride in a tight section of woods. Could it be… this the bike for all occasions? I think so. I also like the idea of not having to adjust valves or worry about timing chains and cams when I replace a piston. Plus the potential savings in maintenance could be substantial. A new top end kit for one of these is $290 for the complete kit through Wiseco and you probably have to do it once every two years.

In addition to this, the smell of 2 stroke oil takes me back to my early days of riding. It’s one of my favorite smells and I love to walk into the shop after a 2 stroke has been running.

Want one of your own? Go to www.servicehonda.com

Related posts:

1. The High Cost Of Riding
2. 500 2 Stroke vs 450 Four Stroke – EDM
3. DeVol Radiator Guards For Your CRF450

Various studies have estimated that up to 70 percent of runners sustain an overuse running injury each year with more than 80 percent of those injuries occurring below the knee. Based on a literature review, it appears that foot pronation (how one steps) and inadequate hip muscle stabilization are the top categories for injury. Hip muscle weakness especially appears to lead to atypical lower extremity mechanics and increases forces on knees and feet while running. These results suggest that hip strengthening rehabilitation programs may be an effective way to lessen running overuse injuries.

Various studies have estimated that up to 70 percent of runners sustain an overuse running injury each year with more than 80 percent of those injuries occurring below the knee. Based on a literature review, it appears that foot pronation (how one steps) and inadequate hip muscle stabilization are the top categories for injury, said lead author Reed Ferber, Assistant Professor and Director of the Running Injury Clinic from the University of Calgary. Hip muscle weakness especially appears to lead to atypical lower extremity mechanics and increases forces on knees and feet while running.

One of the studies analyzed in the review suggested that after 4-6 weeks of strength training, 22 of 24 runners experienced significant decrease in pain and a 35-51 percent increase in hip abductor strength. “These results suggest that hip strengthening rehabilitation programs may be an effective way to lessen running overuse injuries, said Ferber

Dr. Ferber recommends performing hip abductor strengthening exercises to prevent injury. Individuals should progress up to three sets of 10 repetitions gradually to avoid muscle soreness. A simple exercise to work the muscles of your outer thigh / abductors.

How to Excersize Your Hip Abductor:

Lie on your side with both feet together, toes pointing forward, using your arms to help fix your upper body position. You may wish to lay your lower arm totally straight, and rest your head on this arm.

Keeping your knees and toes pointing forward smoothly lift upper leg to a position of about 40 degrees.

Smoothly lift and lower the leg only a few inches in a controlled smooth pulsing movement.

You may wish to swap on to the other side and repeat the same process, or simply rest the leg for a brief moment then repeat again on the same leg.

Ankle weights or resistance bands can be used to make this exercise harder.

You can bend your lower leg and use your arms to aid balance during the exercise.

Throughout the movement, focus on feeling the muscles of the upper leg (outer thigh) and buttocks performing the action.

Related posts:

1. Build Strength Twice as Quickly
2. Simple Training Program
3. Tanel Leok Injury Update

In this interview we catch up with riders to see what they do during the week when they’re not at the races. Let’s see what Matt had to say…

Where do you live?

Collinsville,TX

Where do you ride?

Mostly I ride 35 MX, Oak Hill MX, River Valley and Rabbit RunMX

Who do you ride with?

I have a friend that pretty much goes wherever we do Tracey Morgan and whoever is at the tracks

Daily routine? Wake up, then?

Shower, eat breakfast, take poop and get on my way to the track

What do you do on a day off?

Normally do cardio and just relax on the lake or with the family

Favorite thing to do besides ride?

Go to the lake or beach

Who do you hang out with?

Best friends Tyler T J Shea and T Shea

What’s on your playlist?

WEEZZYYY F BABY

Guilty pleasure?

Couldn’t tell you

Pet peeve?

No idea

Favorite food?

SUSHI

Favorite drink?

GATORADE

What do you watch on TV?

Yes, Pawn Stars by far my fav

What other sports do you watch?

Football and Basketball

Favorite video game?

HALO

Related posts:

1. Monday through Friday with Sean Lipanovich
2. Monday Through Friday – Interview with Privateer Aden de Jager
3. Gibson Extends Points Lead with Friday Night Win in Baltimore

Renthal’s new moto handguards are designed to offer your hands protection against roost in a sleek and simple design.  Ultra lightweight, these guards are designed to not interfere with your controls and provide excellent protection against rocks and roost in motocross applications.  Multiple mounting positions for both the bracket and shield offer the user greater adjustability during fitment.

• Dual compound molded plastic shield with flexible synthetic rubber edge
• Reinforced composite plastic mounting bracket offers protection& allows guard to flex in the event of a crash
• Mounts independently of perches for versatility
• Each handguard comes with optional red and blue graphic kit
• Part number HG-100-WT
• Made in the USA

Retail: $39.95

Related posts:

1. New Sneaks From SHIFT
2. McGrath Out of Navy Moto X World Championship
3. KTM and EVS Join Forces