Supercross: Ken Roczen Gets Win Number Two In Atlanta

Shan Moore | February 22, 2014

Atlanta, Georgia (February 22, 2014) – Red Bull KTM’s Ken Roczen passed Ryan Villopoto on lap 14 of the 20-lap main event to claim his second win of the 2014 Monster Energy AMA Supercross Series, and pull to within nine points of Villopoto in the series standings.

Nearly 70,000 fans watched on as Mike Alessi grabbed the holeshot to start the main event. The Smartop/Motoconcepts Racing Suzuki rider gave way on the opening lap to James Stewart, however, the Yoshimura Suzuki rider slid out a few turns later, handing the lead back to Alessi.

Alessi led the race for five laps total before Monster Energy Kawasaki’s Ryan Villopoto charged by to take the lead position.

With Roczen in tow, Villopoto held onto the lead until lap 14, when he failed to jump the triple. Roczen was able to take advantage of Villopoto’s mistake and move into the lead at that point.

Roczen turned in six more fast and steady laps to take the win with Villopoto finishing second and Red Bull KTM’s Ryan Dungey finishing third.

“I don’t believe this,” said Roczen. “Getting on the podium is one thing but a win is another … such an awesome feeling. This proves that hard work pays off and helps build my confidence.”

Wil Hahn turned in his best performance since moving into the 450 class with a fourth place finish, the GEICO Honda rider taking advantage of a good start. Meanwhile, Justin Brayton continues to turn in strong rides and rounded out the top five on his JGRMX Toyota Yamaha.

With eight rounds in the books, Villopoto now has a nine-point lead over Roczen in season standings. Stewart finished 11th and is third in season standings.

Through eight races, there have been four different two-time winners, marking the first time this has happened in the sport’s history.

450SX Class Results

1. Ken Roczen (KTM)

2. Ryan Villopoto (Kaw)

3. Ryan Dungey (KTM)

4. Wil Hahn (Hon)

5. Justin Brayton (Yam)

6. Mike Alessi (Suz)

7. Broc Tickle (Suz)

8. Weston Peick (Suz)

9. Josh Grant (Yam)

10. Andrew Short (KTM)