Innehållsförteckning för 265 från Dirt Action

Kawasaki Motors Australia has confirmed the arrival of the all-new 2026 KLX300, a lightweight dual-sport motorcycle that blends road-legal practicality with trail-riding capability. With full registration approval and Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme (LAMS) status, the KLX300 is designed to suit a wide range of riders seeking a versatile entry point into adventure riding. At the heart of the KLX300 is a 292cc liquid-cooled, fuel-injected four-stroke engine, delivering quick-revving power with a smooth, usable torque curve. The package is housed in a high-tensile steel perimeter frame, keeping the bike slim and easy to handle, whether you’re weaving through traffic or heading into the bush. Kawasaki has built the KLX300 with comfort and capability in mind. An upright riding position, long-travel suspension (43mm inverted fork and Uni Trak rear shock with damping…

Sherco Australia has introduced the MY26 Factory Enduro range, updating its SE and SEF platforms with a mix of performance, durability and riderfocused refinements. The new lineup spans both 2-stroke and 4-stroke models, building on the proven handling and reliability that have defined Sherco’s enduro machines. WHAT’S NEW FOR MY26 All MY26 Factory models feature updates designed to enhance feel, function and longevity. A new graphics kit with all-blue plastics gives the bikes a unified look, while chassis reinforcements improve front-end feedback and structural integrity. Other updates include Oxia Lock-On grips for better durability and easier replacement, a Galfer rear brake disc that reduces weight and improves braking performance, and a Nilos steering column seal designed to reduce friction and resist mud and debris in demanding off-road conditions. 2-STROKE SE…

Husqvarna hasn’t gone wild for 2026 — the enduro range sees mostly subtle updates rather than a complete overhaul. However, a few key changes are worth pointing out. WHAT’S CHANGED Visually, Husqvarna has freshened up the range with new graphics, radiator shrouds, rear mudguards and fork guards. The classic Swedishinspired look is cleaner and sharper, while a new fuel line protector adds a small but important boost to durability. The suspension sees the most meaningful updates. WP XACT Closed Cartridge forks now feature polished springs, a new pressure reservoir, and a one-piece hydrostop for improved damping. Compression and rebound settings have also been tweaked, and the rear shock has received matching updates to maintain chassis balance and handling predictability. THE 2-STROKES The TE 150 (New Zealand only) and the TE…

Beta Motorcycles Australia has announced the arrival of the 2026 RR X-PRO range, the second generation of the model that quickly found a place in the brand’s lineup. Launched last year, the X-PRO struck a balance that appealed to a wide audience. Experienced riders appreciated its adaptable chassis, lowered seat height and user-friendly suspension settings that made it capable in both Hard Enduro and higher-speed terrain. At the same time, developing riders found confidence in the way the bike combined control, comfort and rideability without losing its race-bred DNA. For 2026, Beta has sharpened the package with a mix of fresh styling and functional upgrades. The striking new red-and-black design gives the bikes an aggressive factory look, while updates to radiators, chassis components and engine mapping aim to make the…

Honda Racing Australia, under the leadership of Yarrive Konsky, is without doubt the most successful and powerful motocross and supercross team on Australian soil right now. In 2024 and 2025, they claimed all four ProMX championships, as well as the SX1 and SX2 titles in Supercross. After chalking up his second straight ProMX championship in the MX2 category, Kiwi racer Brodie Connolly has cemented himself as one of the most dominant riders in Australia. Following his successful campaign at the ProMX here in Australia, we caught up with Brodie midway through his end-of-season trip to the USA. DA: First of all, congrats on the back-to-back Australian Motocross Championships. Looking back at the 2025 MX season, what was the biggest highlight for you? Brodie: Thanks, mate. There are quite a few,…

For a bloke, it’s pretty cool to have a partner who rides a dirt bike. Someone who wants to go riding every weekend. You don’t get the old, “Oh, you’re going riding again with the boys” remark when loading up the ute. Then, when you get home with a bike and gear covered in dirt, there are no complaints about cleaning your bike on the driveway or putting your dirty riding gear in the washing machine. She’s right there with you and gets it 100 per cent. This is the way it is with Stefan Granquist and Emelie Karlsson, two of Australia’s top enduro riders. For well over a decade, they have been living out of each other’s pockets, travelling the country, riding, training and racing — chasing the dream…

We caught up with Harry at his new property in northern New South Wales. He calls the place “Shredland” — a tucked-away piece of land he’s shaping into his freestyle motocross dreamland. At just 31, Harry has already lived three lifetimes: the Canberra kid with posters of Travis Pastrana on his wall, the Nitro Circus showman hurling himself across stadiums around the world, and now a man learning accountability, health and a slower life after breaking his neck. We sat down with him to talk about his journey — the highs, the crashes, the parties, the triple backflip, and the shift to a quieter life away from the Gold Coast party scene. DA: Harry, we’re sitting here at your new property in northern New South Wales. Before we talk about…

01 Aussie Made We love that the Shingleback Moto Rack is designed and manufactured in Australia using Aussie steel! The quality is outstanding, with features that make your moto-carrying experience second to none. 02 Lock Chock We dig the patent-pending Lock Chock, which securely clamps your front wheel and holds the bike steady, making it easier to strap down or clip the snap hooks to the pegs to lock it in place. It’s tool-free, easily adjustable, and holds your bike rock-solid. 03 Adjustable The Moto Rack is highly modular and adjustable — you can set it up to face either way, and tweak the channel length for long, short or kids’ bikes. With a 190kg total carrying capacity, you can haul more than just your moto. Thanks to the optional…

The Smart Air Pump is a compact, portable compressor built for riders who like to stay in control. Whether it’s a quick top-up at the track, on a trail ride or for general vehicle maintenance, this pump has you covered. It inflates up to four tyres in under four minutes, features a built-in hose, dual display for real-time pressure readings, auto-stop function, and even doubles as a a power bank with an LED emergency light. ht. With a six-month standby battery life, it’s ready whenever you need it — from motorcycles to cars and bikes. RRP $149.95 www.motonational.com.au…

JAYDEN HOLDER Age: 16 Achievements: 6 x Australian Champion, 8 x NSW Champion, 4 x Qld Champion in Flat Track Racing DA: Jayden, we know of Speedway World Champion Chris Holder. Is he related to you? JH: Yeah, that’s my cousin. DA: So he’s been a bit of an inspiration? JH: Yeah, definitely. DA: Tell us about that relationship. JH: Ever since I was little, I’ve looked up to Chris and followed in his footsteps with racing. I’ve always tried to be like him. DA: How much support has he given you? JH: We mostly talk on the phone, because he’s usually in England racing or with family. He’s flat out over there, but we still stay in touch and have a yarn when we can. DA: You’ve already won multiple…

After nearly 25 years, Suzuki has finally pulled the covers off a new chapter in its legendary DR-Z story. The all-new DR-Z4S arrives as the long-awaited successor to the iconic DR-Z400, a bike that’s sold more than 21,000 units in Australia alone since its launch. Alongside the big-bore DR650, the DR-Z has cemented itself as one of the true icons of Aussie trail and adventure riding. So why the change now? The simple answer is compliance. To keep the platform viable for global markets, Suzuki had to meet the latest Euro 5+ emissions and noise regulations, as well as modern safety requirements such as ABS and traction control. That’s meant big changes to the engine and electronics package, while still keeping the character that made the DR-Z such a favourite.…

There aren’t many races in the world where you can blast down a riverbed at full throttle, park your bike, and then wander down to the beach for a swim. But that’s exactly what makes the Don River Dash something special. Held in Bowen, North Queensland, the Dash has quickly carved out a reputation as one of Australia’s most unique off-road events. It’s not just the racing, though there’s plenty of that with more than 200 bikes and almost 100 cars charging into the Sandy River each September. It’s the way the event turns the whole town into a festival, blending high-octane competition with laid-back coastal holiday vibes. This year, Far North Queenslander Ivan Long reminded everyone why he’s considered one of the sport’s greats, taking out the outright bike…

KTM has continued to evolve its crosscountry machines with the release of the 2026 KTM XC range, building on four years of technical refinement and championship-winning performance in Australian off-road racing. Built around KTM’s renowned steel frame with optimised wall thickness and revised shock mounts, the 2026 XC lineup delivers a lighter, more responsive chassis. A revised swingarm contributes to improved agility, traction and high-speed stability. Power remains a strong point across the board, with both 2-stroke and 4-stroke engines offering efficient, race-proven torque and top-end power. Ergonomics are sharp, with a slim rider triangle and in-mould bi-composite plastics ensuring excellent rider feel and control. WP XACT closed cartridge forks and rear shock suspension remain key to the handling package, offering dependable performance across varied terrain. Backed by advanced tech…

DA: AJ, can you tell me why the Moto Academy was created? AJ: Rewinding to the very beginning, it was created because I was a professional racer who wasn’t making any money. I thought: “How the heck can I make some money?” Training riders was the best way to do that. Soon enough, I realised that the training and teaching were my true passions — not racing. DA: How does your training program help your students? AJ: The whole idea of the Moto Academy is that it creates a system. That’s what the sport was missing — there were lots of disconnected techniques and differing theories on how to do certain things, but they weren’t pieced together well. The Moto Academy creates a simple, seamless system that people can follow.…

WEM DAYS For 23 years, Kevin Williams and his company, WEM, was the promoter, organiser and team on the ground that ran the Australian Motocross Championship. Kevin took on the Thumper Nats in the mid-1990s, combined it with the struggling Australian Motocross Championship, and the MX Nationals were born. They were the cornerstone of the Australian calendar and ran like clockwork for two decades, with Kevin and his family at the helm. There were highs and lows as the sport, economy and attitudes ebbed and flowed, but it was always a prestigious championship to win, introducing riders like Chad Reed, Andrew MacFarlane, Michael Byrne and Brett Metcalfe to the world. Even off-road legend Toby Price cut his teeth at the MX Nationals. But in 2020, the world was thrown a…

Will Ruprecht found his groove at rounds 9 and 10 of the Australian Enduro Championship at Kyogle, bouncing back with a double victory in Pro Enduro. He’d lost ground to Daniel Milner and Korey McMahon at the fast, sandy tracks of Tintinara and Casterton, but shone in the more technical terrain of Kyogle. Pushed hard by his teammate Will Dennett, who laid down some heaters in the first two tests on Saturday before coming unstuck in the third, and pressured by DM31 KTM Racing Team’s Jonte Reynders on Sunday, Ruprecht looked more comfortable on his Shop Yamaha Off Road Racing WR450F than he’d been in a while. He controlled both days and showed the speed many expect of the former World Enduro Champion. Obviously, the more technical conditions suited Ruprecht…

The morning light at Appin filtered across the rolling paddocks of Macarthur Motorcycle Club, but instead of the usual sound of bikes lining up for gate drops, there was something different in the air. Laughter carried across the pits as the Pirelli slow race got underway, while the famous POD “rut limbo” was already pulling a crowd. In September, the first-ever interstate Motorex Battle in the Bush presented by Fasthouse brought its Queensland flavour to New South Wales, and what followed was one of the most unique and entertaining weekends the Macarthur club had hosted in years. Riders, families, veterans and newcomers all piled in for two days of novelty games, racing and camaraderie, leaving plenty to talk about long after the gates closed. At the heart of it all…

From Humboldt, Iowa, Travis Fuller has been a dirt bike tragic since he was a kid. His first bike was a brand-new 2000 RM250, bought at the height of the Travis Pastrana era. That bike made him a Suzuki loyalist, and years later, he set out to relive the experience by building another RM250 from the ground up. The donor bike he found had a blown motor. What began as a plan for a quick rebuild with fresh plastics and a few bolt-ons soon escalated into a full custom project. Inspired by YouTube builders, particularly Charles at MXRevival, Travis set a goal to create the best-looking and best-performing RM250 he could. The engine was rebuilt with all-new components from Motorsports.com, and the bike was stripped to the bare frame. A…

The ’80s for motocross were a time of huge development. All the major manufacturers were considering new concepts and ideas. We had come out of the ’70s which, in all fairness, had some very minor developments but nothing like the ’80s’ surge. We start to get into polypropylene plastics and all sorts of different parts, rubber mounts for one-off-year suspension, and all sorts of madness. A lot of this was driven in part by the works rules in the early ’80s, which enabled teams to run all sorts of trick in-house custom parts. A lot of them were good for one race, not fit for the average consumer. This ruling changed in the US and Australia around 1986 and helped standardise what was eligible to race. However, these modifications and…

Triumph has expanded its motocross range with the launch of the 2026 TF 450-X, following the brand’s first steps into the 450cc class last year with the TF 450-RC. The new model arrives with a series of technical updates designed to enhance durability, control and performance. ENGINE AND POWERTRAIN At the centre of the TF 450-X is Triumph’s 450cc four-stroke single producing 62.4hp at 9500rpm, the most powerful in its class. Combined with an overall weight of 108.3kg, the bike leads on power-to-weight ratio. The engine features a forged König aluminium piston, flow-optimised Del West titanium valves, and DLC-coated cams and rockers to reduce friction and improve durability at high rpm. Magnesium engine covers reduce weight and aid cooling. Fuel delivery is achieved via a Dell’Orto 44mm throttle body and…

GASGAS has unveiled its 2026 off-road range, and the updates are subtle but solid. Black anodised rims, black NEKEN bars, a new bar pad, and a black gripper seat give the bikes a clean, understated look, with new graphics tying it all together. PRACTICAL UPDATES Alongside the styling, several small but important improvements have been made. A new fuel line protection cap adds durability, 2-stroke wiring harnesses have been rerouted for reliability, and enduro models now include a radiator fan to keep things cool under hard riding. MOTOCROSS The MX range keeps the favourites from previous years. MC 125 and MC 250 2-strokes continue to deliver lively, wide-open rides, while the MC 250F and MC 450F 4-strokes offer smooth, powerful performance. For younger riders, the MC 50, MC 65, and…

For years, dirt bike riders have had to make a choice: pack light for the bikes or load up for a comfortable camp. The new Ryder from Offline Campers finally puts an end to that compromise. Purpose-built to carry your toys and double as a fully capable camper, the Ryder is designed so you can chase remote riding missions without leaving behind the comfort or gear you want for life off the bike. Offline describes the Ryder as “a toy hauler that doesn’t make you choose between your love for bikes and your love for touring the Outback”. It’s a machine that extends your range, lets you stage rides further from the crowds, and keeps your gear organised and secure, all while offering the quality of life you expect from…

Rolling into Appin Raceway, south of Sydney, the CDR Yamaha rig sat proudly with 12 shiny machines ready for the 2026 Yamaha YZ450F launch. What a setup, I thought to myself. Included among the 12 was Jed Beaton’s race machine, along with the special 70th Anniversary white model. There were massive promo shades and banners everywhere, and half a dozen mechanics fussing over bikes, making it feel like a full-on factory day. Even though the track had copped some rain and a few wet spots remained, the prep was spot on. Getting onto the 2026 YZ450F for the first time, the riding triangle felt immediately natural. The seat, while flat like previous models, strikes the perfect balance between grip and slide. Slide forward when you want to attack a corner,…

Nestled in the Wheatbelt, deep in the westernmost corner of this country, a makeshift city emerges every couple of weekends around this time of year. Utes loaded with dust-hungry bikes pour through that month’s chosen farm gate; caravans circle to create campsites as bonfires crackle between the sounds of two-strokes grumbling on a crisp winter night. Under imposing light towers, a cornered section of track erupts with the buzz of Flat Track Motocross, laying down the final piece to this ad hoc dirt bike utopia overnight. A mix of 300 passionate riders, ranging from pros like Riley McGillivray to the weekend goon rider rumbling over from his nearby farm, all unite around the centre bonfire to launch a weekend of enduro racing. Over a couple of discounted slices of Arola’s…

“Where did all these over-50 riders come from?” I thought to myself while lining up for the first test on the MX Store grass track Saturday morning. Twenty-four riders — one of the biggest classes. Did half of them just turn 50 last week? If you read my column last issue, you’ll know I had a nasty accident nine weeks out from this race. I didn’t think I’d be fit physically or mentally to line up, so I passed the 2025 WR250F to hard charger Harry Teed, who happily stepped up to race it on Dirt Action’s behalf. One week late, poor Harry was banged up after hitting a tree at around 80km/h. The poor bugger snapped his ulna bone in his forearm, broke some ribs, smashed his middle toe…

Ballards has taken the guesswork out of trackside prep with a purpose-built tool kit designed specifically for dirt bikes. No filler, no wasted spanners you’ll never use — just the right gear to keep you riding. From Torx bits to a 30 x 32mm wheel spanner, multiple sets of T-bars, plus the all-important 8mm and 10mm doubles, this kit has you covered from vintage builds to modern bikes. Packed into a heavy-duty 40-pocket bag with a swing panel for organisation, it’s ready to throw in the ute, the van, or leave in the shed. Best of all, buying this as a complete kit saves you over $200 compared to picking up the tools individually. RRP $389.95 www.mxstore.com.au…

Protect your clutch actuator and keep mud and debris clear with the all-new GYTR Front Sprocket Chain Guard. Machined from 6061-T6 aluminium and finished with hard anodising, it’s built tough for serious dirt action. Designed to replace the OEM guard, it allows for faster front sprocket changes and fits up to a 14-tooth sprocket. Compatible with GYTR Hydraulic Clutch, OEM Cable, and OEM Hydraulic setups, it’s made for YZ450F (2023–2026), WR450F (2024–2026), and YZ450FX (2024–2026). Part #: D03-F21G0-V0 | RRP: $93.95 Available via www.shop.yamaha-motor.com.au or your local dealer.…

STEP 1: BUILDING COMPETENCY IN MOTOCROSS » Embrace the Learning Process: When starting in motocross, you must learn essential skills such as controlling the bike, correct body positions, navigating rough terrain, and mastering jumps. These skills don’t develop overnight, and even the top professional riders are continually working on the basics and refining their craft. Embrace the inevitable falls and mistakes as opportunities to learn and improve your riding techniques, rather than as failures. » Seek Guidance and Mentorship: Everyone can benefit greatly from seeking guidance from experienced riders or professional coaches. They can provide valuable tips on bike setup, riding techniques and strategies for tackling different types of tracks. As a coach myself, seeking guidance was one of the best investments I made in my earlier years, and my…