Phoenix Racing Honda confirmed their first rider for the 2027 season this week with the signing of Avery Long. Long makes the move from the AEO Powersports KTM team and will compete in the 250 class in AMA Supercross, Pro Motocross, and SuperMotocross Championships aboard a CRF250R. He previously earned the AMA Amateur Rider of the Year award in 2022 before making the transition to professional racing.
“I’m excited to be joining Phoenix Racing Honda for the 2027 season,” Long said. “I’m grateful for the opportunity and looking forward to becoming part of the team. Over the past couple of seasons, I’ve gained a lot of valuable experience, and I’m eager to build on that as I transition to a new program. Between being based back on the East Coast, working with a strong and experienced technical staff, and having the chance to get back on a Honda, signing with Phoenix was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up. The 2026 season had its challenges, especially with battling illness, but there were still plenty of positives. I had moments where I showed that I have the speed to consistently compete inside the top ten, and I feel like I had moments where I could push enough to even be top-five. That’s the level I’m aiming for in 2027, and I believe Phoenix Racing Honda is the right place to help me reach those goals. I’m ready to get to work with David, Gary, Scuba, and the entire crew as we prepare for my first season competing in the 250SX East Region.”
The Phoenix Honda racing team sees an all-new rider roster for 2027 as their former riders, Evan Ferry, Gavin Towers, Cullin Park, and Aden Keefer are all seeking new homes for the upcoming season. The team is also now aided by “Scuba” Steve Westfall as the Technical Director. Westfall previously ran the Triumph and Husqvarna Factory Racing teams.
“We’re really looking forward to having Avery join our 250 program for 2027, added team owner David Eller. “He’s a talented young rider with a lot of potential, but there’s more to him than just what he does on the track. I first met Avery and his family four or five years ago at Loretta Lynn’s, and I remember being impressed with how he carried himself. He’s a humble kid who comes from a great family, and that’s something I’ve always appreciated about him. We feel like he’s a great fit for what we’re building at Phoenix Racing, and our goal is to give him the equipment and support he needs to keep improving and take that next step in his career. I’m excited to get to work with him and see what we can accomplish together.”
