Supercross: Teams Prepare For Anaheim Opener
Shan Moore | January 1, 2015
Troy Lee Designs mechanics work to put the finishing touches on team bikes on Thursday afternoon. Photography by Shan Moore
Mechanics and team personnel worked throughout the day today, erecting awnings and preparing work areas in the parking lot of Angel Stadium in preparation for Saturday’s opening round of the Monster Energy AMA Supercross Series.
This year’s race marks the 42nd year of the series and the 64th time the gate will drop for a 450 SX-class race in Angel Stadium. In addition, the 2015 season will see a new champion crowned now that four-time champ Ryan Villopoto elected to race in Europe this year.
Newly crowned outdoor champ Ken Roczen comes into the event as one of the pre-season favorites, the former MX2 world champ now riding for RCH/Soaring Eagle/Jimmy Johns Suzuki team after spending the last few seasons with Red Bull KTM. Meanwhile, Ryan Dungey and teammate Dean Wilson – also favorites coming into the race – will lead the charge for Red Bull KTM.
Over at Monster Energy Kawasaki, Davi Millsaps returns to action after spending the last year recouping from a knee injury, the former 250 Regional SX champ being joined by Wil Hahn moving over after an injury-filled season at GEICO Honda.
American Honda’s Trey Canard is also considered a big favorite for the 2015 title, after closing out the outdoor series with an impressive win. Canard will be joined by Cole Seely in the 450 class.
Look for Justin Barcia to be in the mix, as well, having moved from Team Honda in 2014, to JGRMX Yamaha for 2015.
With James Stewart suspended for 16 months, Blake Baggett will be the lone rider representing Yoshimura Suzuki.
Tomorrow at noon, FELD will host a press conference, where the press will get a chance to talk to some of the top riders, as well see them ride.
Shan Moore | Contributing Editor
Moore covers all facets of off-road racing for Cycle News – from AMA Supercross and Motocross to GNCC and National Hare Scrambles events.
