Monday Kickstart – Anaheim I SX 2012

After losing a bet with Bob Walker, WMG's Steve Astephen was forced to run this shirt.

Deep in the privateer pit area, the area for the mandatory sound test is set up. This year’s maximum pre-race limit is 115dB/A, 116dB/A post race. The consequences of a failed test are intense and could result in the loss of a qualifying lap in practice and the loss of three positions in a race. The major exhaust companies had support crews surrounding the area to assist those endorsing their products in case of an issue.

The starting gate received a makeover for the New Year and is now outfitted with the flags of many rider's nations. Where the previous gate shot colored flames during each main event start, the new edition is lit throughout the night.

The early morning temperature had many donning their team jackets but as the day continued on the weather became more favorable and reached the low 70’s.

GoPro has stepped up yet again and used these trick rigs to get the best footage possible. The smooth action minimizes shake and the small screen allows the shooter to view what the camera sees.

Running the well-known number of Jason Lawrence caused Zach Osborne and team headaches all day. Many spotted the number and inquired if Lawrence was racing and even debated with the crew as to who the bike belonged to. The team’s spin bike let everyone know the truth. Osborne will contest the next three Supercross races before returning to Europe to chase after the MX2 GP title.

Martin Honda, one of the top teams on the GP tour, had a small presence at the opener, as Lites rider Max Anstie competed in his first Supercross since his days at Star Yamaha in 2010.

After chatting with Anstie’s mechanic, we learned the Honda CRF 250F they ran is much different than what he will use on the GP tour. The AMA rules require the bike to stay mostly production and many of the parts used are obtainable by a commoner. The bike that the Brit will use for the remainder of the year will be more “one off,” as the FIM rules are much more lax.

The carbon fiber tank and recessed cap is a common site on the GP tour, but not so much stateside.

While walking back in the tunnel to the stadium, we spotted the injured Jimmy Decotis wheeling around the pits. Decotis was his usual animated self and said that the possibility of racing the East Coast looks promising.

See you next week!