GEICO Honda Signs Zach Bell

Kit Palmer | May 16, 2012

One of the top rising stars in the amateur ranks, Zach Bell, of Cairo, Georgia, has already landed a spot on one of the major motocross teams when he turns pro right after this year’s AMA Amateur National Motocross Championships at Loretta Lynn Ranch. Bell signed a deal with the GEICO Honda team through the 2014 season.

Bell will make his pro debut at the Moto-X 338 National in Southwick, Massachusetts, August 11.

“It an awesome deal for me,” said Bell who spent much of his young career riding Kawasakis but recently made the switch to Amsoil-backed Hondas. “Everybody wants to be a part of these big factory teams, and I did everything I could do to earn a spot. I’ve worked hard, run to the best of my abilities and kept my head in it and it all paid off when GEICO Honda gave me a call and we made a deal. It’s an incredible opportunity for me.

“I’m trying hard to win every race for this team, training as hard as I can every day. I even went out to California and did some testing with the team. Everyone from the shop was really helpful and the other riders were super cool to me. It was a great introduction.”

Mike LaRocco, the GEICO Honda team manager, was impressed with Bell in a recent riding session with the team despite nursing an injured wrist.

“His speed is really good,” LaRocco said. “We had him do part of a moto with our guys and he fit right in. I’m looking forward to life after this year’s Loretta Lynns and seeing what he can do.

“I’ve not been able to see him race a whole lot but he seems like he’s mature for his age,” LaRocco said. “I’m hoping that translates to a minimal amount of growing pains once he gets out here and starts racing on the professional level.”

“The Hondas are amazing,” Bell said after riding one of the team 250F Hondas. “The Factory Connection suspensions are the best out there and the motors are unbelievably fast. I don’t think anyone else has a bike like I’m riding right now, and I can’t thank them enough.”