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What's Wrong With MXA?

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Posted by: MXFastGuy---------------------

From reading various threads on DRN, I get the sense that Motocross Action Magazine is not very well liked or respected.

Why is this? To me, it's by far the best moto mag out there. It's well-written, has great pics, interesting and informative articles, and actually has some moral/ethical integrity with regard to its content (including advertising). It's the only moto mag that is really suitable for children to read.

Of course, it's unrealistic to expect any piece of media to be 100% free from bias. But I think MXA comes the closest and does so with the most panache.

So, fill me in...


Posted by: Garyb---------------------

Duck and cover.....


Posted by: moto1313---------------------

If you are from So Cal and ride a Yamaha-it is a great mag. It is basically remedial reading for the motocross enthusiast. They are biased to the highest degree toward Blue-they try to push their so called morals on others-they hold their opinion to to be the highest authority on the sport. And they repeat the same "technical" garbage to fill the mag- ie: how to clean your air filter properly. Every once in a while they accidently put some useful info in the mag-they probably read another mag and used the info in their next issue. Their reviews are a who's who in their advertising budget. But yeah-I buy it every month!!! :scream: :scream:


Posted by: Big Tuna---------------------

I very much admire the way MXA can twist positives into negatives for one bike, and then twist negatives into positives for another. I applaud the skill hard work and dedication it takes to always make a certain color come out on top every time


Posted by: JMD---------------------

MXfastguy, I agree with you. While MXA infuriates me at times with their prejudice against KTM handling, I really don't think they cook the reviews to make sure any bike comes out on top. I think they honestly have their preferences, and lately they have preferred the Yamahas. But let's face it, the blue meanies have been pretty darn good machines lately.

I take their reviews with a grain of salt, as I do everyone's. But there is usually some good information there as well.

Yes, their technical articles may be lacking at times, but there are lots of new riders out there who need to know how to clean their air filters, too.

Finally, I agree with the family-oriented content. While there is much I admire about Racer X , I can't stand the teen-age, rock 'n roll, freestyle MX attitude. I don't want to read interviews with moronic youths using profanity; I don't think the "F" word has any place in a mass magazine; Even if the team managers have inadequately coached their young, immature, gargabe-mouthed racers regarding press etiquette and interview manners, I don't want to read their moronic drivel word-for-word in the magazine--clean it up or leave it out.


Posted by: kmccune---------------------

MXA believes (IMHO) that they ARE motocross. Actually as an above post says they are pretty close if you live in LA and ride a Yamaha, both good choices for some. But they do not have their finger on the pulse of motocross like say Racer X. I do read and enjoy MXA, but I take exception to some of their biased opinions.

Kevin


Posted by: zio---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by JMD
...Yes, their technical articles may be lacking at times, but there are lots of new riders out there who need to know how to clean their air filters, too.

Finally, I agree with the family-oriented content. While there is much I admire about Racer X , I can't stand the teen-age, rock 'n roll, freestyle MX attitude. I don't want to read interviews with moronic youths using profanity; I don't think the "F" word has any place in a mass magazine; Even if the team managers have inadequately coached their young, immature, gargabe-mouthed racers regarding press etiquette and interview manners, I don't want to read their moronic drivel word-for-word in the magazine--clean it up or leave it out.


I agree with those two points. 1) The "How To" articles were so helpful to me when I first started riding. I didn't really have any friends I felt comfortable asking the basic questions, & I had yet to find DRN. So learning how to clean an air filter was something of great value. Same goes for the tips on bleeding brakes, cleaning powervalves, etc. For the novice mechanic like myself, even the lamest tip is helpful, even if it's only a very basic stepping stone to proper mechanical skills & knowledge of motorcycle "stuff". Now, of course I'm over the super-basic articles & initially cringe when I see them pop up, but I quickly remember that there was a time when this was all news to me, & I was afraid to ask someone at the shop what a powervalve was.

2) I love RacerX. It instantly turned into my favorite with the first issue I picked up. I quickly understood the difference between Jody/Roland & Davy/David. That said, I too hate to see the word sh*t in a magazine (I guess its no worse than me typing it creatively here, but I digress). The Oneal ads are pushing it too far for good taste. Yes, pretty girls are fun to look at, but I'm getting tired of Zia going through and ripping out the ads, regardless of what is on the flip-side of the page. Makes for difficult reading. It just reminds me of the proverbial frog in a pot on the stove... the heat is slowly being turned up. Everythin else, though, is gold IMO.

That said, I'm done with MXA. Read on, I'm sure the right people will chime in & give you whatfor. It's been beaten to death here, so I'm surprised you're asking. :think


Posted by: kelsorat---------------------

No way, MXA has taken a real dive. The race coverage is terrible. How can a magazine devote only 1 page to a nationals race. Most of the magazine is advertising. They need more content about the sport of motorcross, not just new bike reviews.


Posted by: bsmith---------------------

Where's the flame? We need entertainment!


Posted by: BunduBasher---------------------

Quote:
What's Wrong With MXA?


These are the very same bunch who slammed the DRZ, after Suzuki told them it was not an bike designed for MX, but rather enduro, off road racing. They test the bike and then come back with a very poor review. Two years later the DRZ is one of the best selling trail bikes in the market. Suzuki were so pissed off, they pulled their support for MXA.

Add to that, anything which is not a race bike is completely overlooked or slated, which means no Enduro style bikes are covered.

I used to ride an IT250 many years ago, and think Yamaha make great bikes, however MXA seems to think, the blue bikes are the only 'great' bikes around. KTM and Honda barely get an honorable mention, with Kawasaki and Suzuki getting the scraps. As to the other Euro bikes, they get barely any mention at all.

I guess the only time we will see a decent write up on an enduro bike in MXA is if it is a Yamaha.

Oh yeah, they did a blurb on pit bikes, hop up mini bikes, a whole feature on a TTR125L ...wheeeee

And the ads, is this all you can get, I took my last MXA on a flight from Amarillo to Houston, was done reading it before we landed, and forgot it on the plane - did not really feel too bad about that or even miss the mag at all

My subscription is about to expire, and will definitely not be renewed.

BB

BTW, I think maybe mxfastguy is jody or roland out looking for some feedback ! :scream:


Posted by: S.FL MX'r---------------------

I have seen MXA in action at REM motocross when it used to be at Carlsbad. Jody is about 50+ and slow, always has been. I remember the first time I saw him at Saddleback in 1979. When I was a kid I had always thought Jody Weisel was pro. So man was I pissed when he was in the novice practice and was I surprised when I passed him. Hey! he's a fraud! Ever since then I had no respect for the man. Not beacuse he is slow, because he slams other riders. Just like the guy who brags to you how good he is and then crawls around the track. Jody Weisel was the leader of that club.
He is much better then he used to be, last time I saw him race was in 1996 and then I moved to Florida. He does tend to stay at the same track and race it every weekend. Always races the same tracks, it was Carlsbad for years and now Glen Helen. Go to Glen Helen for an REM race and he will probably be there and ask him about MXA.


Posted by: zio---------------------

How 'bout that. Man, I wish I lived closer to those tracks so I could see Jody, Ron & Ken all ride. Maybe Tom Webb, too (but I suspect he's pretty fast, or was pretty fast). Maybe a DRN'er could do some spying, & give us a report.


Posted by: mx547---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by S.FL MX'r
Jody is about 50+ and slow, always has been.


although i despise mxa, what does this have to do with whether or not they can produce a good magazine?


Posted by: S.FL MX'r---------------------

His speed or lack of has nothing to do with producing a good magazine. It is just that most people, myself included, were under the impression that Jody, who is the editor, was or is a pro caliber rider. To this day people that I have talked to in Florida think that. It just has to do with credibility and character that's all, which has something to do with producing a good magazine. Davey Coombs is a good example and RacerX is a great magazine.


Posted by: bclapham---------------------

I been looking through back issues of MXA reviews of the YZ250 since i am looking to get one. It is quite strange, but the reviews for the 2001 and 2002 models almost sound the same. Then i looked at the smaller bike of the year awards for 2001 and 2002 250's. guess what, they were nearly word for word! I have worked in education so i am used to looking for copied homework, but this was so blatant it was embarrasing.

(I am still going to get a YZ however, based upon the feedback from this site.)

And if Honda has had the worst suspension since 1987, how come they have won so much. and that bad euro handling ktm didnt seem to hold back jamie dobb or grant langston to bad!

Also, i dont like the way they bitch about kevin windham. he seems a nice guy and they make out that he doesnt try just because he comes second to mcgrath and carmichael! i dont see any of them on the podium!?!!?!?
i wonder if that is because KW rides one of those RM's they allways rubbish?

if you ever want a good laugh, try comparing reviews from this and previous year bikes. there should also be a prize for anyone who can count the number of times they complain about the yamaha brake hose in one year.....i think we all get the point now.

cheers


Posted by: MikeOK---------------------

hey what's wrong with blue bikes?


Posted by: kelsorat---------------------

MXA WOULD NOT BE THE ONLY MAG RAGGING ON WINDHAM. MAYBE ALL THE 'BIZ' PEOPLE KNOW SOMETHING WE DON'T, BUT KEVIN SURELY APPEARS TO WANT TO WIN.


Posted by: bclapham---------------------

With the windam issue (they maybe right or wrong and everyone has an opinion), its the way they go about it... they come out with all this about morals, and then they are very rude about him. and it is always the same stuff they say just like the reviews i mentioned earlier. its almost like they have a set magazine format and text for each month of the yera, and then paste in newer photos of bikes and race results and change the odd word to fool us!! what i am saying is that when they come out with the same views on bikes and people year after year, they sound like they have made an opinion and stuck with it, rather than basing there opinion on what is currently happening.


Posted by: mx547---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by bclapham
its almost like they have a set magazine format and text for each month of the yera, and then paste in newer photos of bikes and race results and change the odd word to fool us!! what i am saying is that when they come out with the same views on bikes and people year after year, they sound like they have made an opinion and stuck with it, rather than basing there opinion on what is currently happening.


that's how i see it too. after giving them a second, third, fourth, etc. chance, i finally gave up and let my subscription expire.


Posted by: IDkTm---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by bclapham

and that bad euro handling ktm didnt seem to hold back jamie dobb or grant langston to bad!


Thats because they're both euros(or at least imported Euros in Grant's case). They think euro handling is right and japanese handling is wrong. Kinda like that one episode of Seinfeld with bizarro world.


Posted by: RedBull---------------------

Heres what i dont get so mabey one of you can help me out a little. if were suposta be all heathly and fit (i gave up soda and alot of candy to stay healthy) why do i see ads for rolling paper and chew!? arent we suposta be teaching the kids heatlh and not who pays the most for an ad!?:think i dont get it they have always done without those ads the last thing we need in are mags is a guy riding with rolling papers (easy wide) for a sponsor. I think thats dumb:mad:


Posted by: MR. CRF---------------------

MXA IS BIASED TOWARD BLUE BIKES FOR SURE. I THINK MXA IS MORE OF AN ENTERTAINMENT VALUE LIKE THE NATIONAL ENQUIRER AND STAR. THE CONTENT IS AMUSING BUT CAN ANYBODY BE GULLABLE ENOUGH TO REALLY BELIVE IT?


Posted by: will pattison---------------------

it's funny about mxa and yamaha. i can remember when they were the same way about honda. either way, we all know that there is a great deal of information that is useful to the dirtbike consumer that is NOT included in the magazine.

what really stung me with their latest issue was the commentary on tim ferry. instead of giving him props for a terrific season, they ragged him for not trying hard enough, for not being consistent enough, or some other such drivel. i can remember several years ago at the pro challenge in tyler, tx when i saw tim quit the race. later in the day he was just sitting in the back of his box van with his head in his hands, and i remember thinking that he was washed up. that is clearly not the case, and he deserves respect for what he did this year, especially on an unfamiliar motorcycle. in every race i watched, he rode his heart out, and that's all you can ask for...unless you're mxa.


Posted by: yardpro---------------------

Quote:
What's Wrong With MXA?

inconsistancy (except with bule as #1)!!
I've had a subscription to MXA for 7 years. If you read thier test report for the new year bike they always make referance to how it compares with a bike of a few years ago. I was curious, and read thier test results from the stated bike of the stated year and they were completely contradictorey. I started comparing articles and found an obscene amount of contradiction. MXA bites, but for $9.00/year, it it good on the john material, I guesss reading crap helps with a c......


Posted by: Jaybird---------------------

I think it's funny how so many get flustered by this mag. To a point they feel the need to write manifesto's on the subject. IMO...buy it or don't. Surely folks don't think that thier local newspaper tells it all correct and without slant....or do they?:think
Quite often I pick up a MXA so I can argue as I read. It's great therapy.
:confused:


Posted by: Big Tuna---------------------

We keep buying MXA because we're gluttons for punishment, and optimistically hoping that they will one day see the light. Not to mention the covers are always so pretty

Anybody else notice that 90% of there photos are of their riders busting berms?


Posted by: Seth_88---------------------

Why are there so many "I hate MXA threads'? If you don't like it, don't read it or don't buy it. When they are selling no more magazines they might get the message and change their format. I read it and all the MX magazines, but I don't take everything I read in them as fact. It's just someones opinion. I don't believe I've ever seen as much controversy over a bike test as I did with their review of the CRF450. I picked up MXA at the store and read the review to see what all the fuss was over. They seemed to like everything about it but the handling. I guess the "garbage scow" thing doesn't sit well with all the people that just paid top dollar for the CRF.:scream:


Posted by: yardpro---------------------

you have to continue to buy the rag so you can continue to get in on all the bashings


Posted by: VintageDirt---------------------

Uhmmm...errr....ahemm...cough

Hi. My name is Wes. And uhh...I....I....What I mean is...Well...I...like....MXA.



:confused: :confused: :confused:


Posted by: VintageDirt---------------------

Just kiddin'. I hate MXA cuz I don't even read the 125 shoot outs and anyways I don't even ride MX...Tim Olson is a puss...Jody is grody...Roland is...well...he's...uhh...Oh hell I do like MXA.

No I don't. Yes I do.

I really like Dirt Bike. I wish Wolf Man was my riding buddy. Not that I could keep up with a real dirt bike rider but I'd bust my ass trying.

Oh crap! Never mind................


Posted by: Rich Rohrich---------------------

Time to take your meds Wes?:scream:


Posted by: VintageDirt---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by Rich Rohrich
Time to take your meds Wes?:scream:
Oh yeah, where'd I put those darn things?


Posted by: will pattison---------------------

the crf450 DOES handle like a garbage scow.

i can't believe i agreed with them on something...


Posted by: JMD---------------------

Yes, but even though it's down on power from the 520, and doesn't turn as well, and doesn't have the good bars, chain, etc., it has to be a better bike, because the KTM's seat is too hard. Just ask Cycle News, Dirt Rider, et al. Unbelievable. Dirt Rider even went so far as to replace the CRF's bar mounts with CR 125 units, because many riders found it cramped! I guess they had lots of Honda CR 125 bar mounts lying around, but no softer seat foam. Makes sense. Fix the CRF's most glaring flaw and call it the winner, and nitpick the KTM for a problem that can be fixed for under $50.

So now, KTM has the undeniably fastest MX bike in every class--125, 250, and four-stroke, but somehow they can't win a shootout. "They just feel different." That means the 19-year-old testers all own Jap bikes, and when they hopped on the KTM for the 20 minutes they rode it, it didn't feel like their YZ. So it must be weird.

That's my rant, and I'm sticking to it.


Posted by: marcusgunby---------------------

IMO the 520 suspension costs more to fix than the $50 for the seat.The CR is lighter and to say its slower than the 520 is like saying the 450 is faster than the 400sx-it would be displacement rules.Anyway the 450 is designed to race in the open class where the 520 will not be allowed in 2003.IMO the CR range is the only place to go if handling is your top priority.The KX is heavy and slow turning.The RM is very good turning but feels scary on faster sections IMO.The KTM has headshake and doesnt turn that well.The YZ is an average turner but nothing more with reasonable stability.This is based on riding a 99/00/01 KTM 125 and 01 520/01 RM 125/98,00 KX125 00 KX250/99,00,01,02 Cr125 and 01 CR250/01,02 Yz125/99 YZ400.


Posted by: will pattison---------------------

ok, anytime a brit starts talking about handling, i have to point out that the u.k. is home to jag-ewe-ahs, land rovers, and those big red buses...:scream:

ok, ok, so the spitfire handled pretty good...

anyhow, the crf's deal is that it won't turn worth a damn. for whatever reason, it wants to stand up in corners. i rode one pretty hard right after getting off my '99yz 400 that i race cross country on, and there IS a big difference. now, to be fair, my 400 has a 20" front wheel, and in most conditions it handles at least as well and sometimes better than my 426, which supposedly has improved manners, BUT, the crf is still a pig.

wp.


Posted by: yardpro---------------------

since this has turnedinto a crf 450 handling thread-
part of the reason that alot of people feel that the 450 has a handling flaw is b/c of the lack of engine braking compared to the yz426, etc. The front end doesn't load as much ( problem is aggrivated by thr stiffish front suspension. At 6'3" and 260, the springs are a little soft for me, but the steering is quite accurate. Spring rates have a major effect is pushing/knifing. also the soil conditions are a large factor as well.


Posted by: will pattison---------------------

never considered that, but it makes some sense. i only way 73 pounds soaking wet, so there you go...

ok, not really, but at 5'10", 160 el bees, i'm not exactly huge.

wp.


Posted by: marcusgunby---------------------

Also heard the CRf is very light on LSC damping on the rear so it will squat and unload the forks somewhat-easily adjusted out with the clicker.The KTM boards are obsessed with many people buying offset clamps to get them to steer(at hundreds of dollors)then you need a steering damper because of the headshake-this doesnt sound like good handling to me.

Will i know we are jesting but the brits make some very good handling cars unlike your barges i watch in the US films.We have the ford focus which is the best front wheel drive car ever made IMO and loads of lovely sporty numbers you probably never seen in the US-Scooby turbos/EVO 6. I hear most of you drive around in pick ups or SUVs(are they the same?)never been in a pick up that handles like a scooby My next car is a MGZS 180 which you can see on www.mg-rover.com they use them alot on track days where you can get a chance to drive a road car on a true race circuit.


Posted by: DPW---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by Seth_88
Why are there so many "I hate MXA threads'? If you don't like it, don't read it or don't buy it.


I agree with Seth_88


Posted by: Okiewan---------------------

Quote:
My next car is a MGZS 180 which you can see on www.mg-rover.com
You pull a trailer with that girly car?


Posted by: Patman---------------------

They talk the talk like they are it but they need a walker to walk. These idiots seem to feel that we're all on the down stream end of a pipe and they can pour whatever sewage they want down it expecting the moto community to accept it as milk and honey. Jody makes a point to claim he's from Texas every so often, THAT makes me want to puke. Timmy O comes in here every great while when there is a MXA bash fest going on and that I commend but why is that the only time? Why not be a part of the DRN community like each and every one of us? Everyone here provides something even if it's something to flame.


Posted by: VintageDirt---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by Patman
These idiots seem to feel that we're all on the down stream end of a pipe and they can pour whatever sewage they want down it expecting the moto community to accept it as milk and honey.
Uhh, that's gonna keep me up all night pewkin'. Exellent use of the lanquage to paint a grahic that's even better than your avatar.


Posted by: marcusgunby---------------------

Okie i wouldnt call any car that can top 140 girly:confused: and yes it will be pulling my bike and trailer.just to make sure we are talking of the correct car its not the 2 seater open top one,its the 4 door saloon.


Posted by: Rich Rohrich---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by marcusgunby
Okie i wouldnt call any car that can top 140 girly:confused


Marcus - When you live in the land of factory 340hp 12 inch wide tire-frying pickup trucks, MGs seem pretty girly. Fun but girly none the less :D


Posted by: marcusgunby---------------------

Ahh but rich then we end up with the topic of UKs outragous fuel prices.:o
2.5L V6 140mph 0-60 in 7.3 and tops 30mpg in normal every day driving is a good mix of qualities in any car, do you adgree


Posted by: Rich Rohrich---------------------

Just one more reason not to live there Marcus :D


Posted by: XRpredator---------------------

Remember Marcus, we won what you might call the "War of Colonial Aggression," so there!


Posted by: will pattison---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by Rich Rohrich
Just one more reason not to live there Marcus :D


that, and the fact that they drink their beer warm.:scream:


Posted by: Farmer John---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by will pattison
that, and the fact that they drink their beer warm.:scream:


Lucas Refigerators.....


Posted by: Rich Rohrich---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by Farmer John


Lucas Refigerators.....





That reminds me of one of my favorite jokes of all times.

If Lucas made guns there would be no wars. :confused:


Posted by: marcusgunby---------------------

You guys crack me up-im going to bow out now while i have some dignity left.The UK has many good points but its prices on most things are not one of them:confused: besides im way out numbered here


Posted by: Stretch374---------------------

As I sit hear at work reading DNR as I quite often do neglecting my real work it accrued to me what the problem is with MXA bike reviews.

I work as a RF electrical Engineer and am currently waiting on the first proto boards of a new design. During this time I am suppose to be writing a test plan. This test plan will document exactly how the P1 design is tested so that when changes are made and I get the P2 design "in about 3 months" I can test it exactly the same as P1. A test plan is not some great document that explains things that other engineers don't already know or why this test is important it just assures that different designs can be compared exactly.

In both car and street bike mags they always have some little facts box about each product tested showing things like measured weight, 0 - 60mph , 30 - 0mph braking times, hp torque graphs.....

Taking a bike to the track and busting out a few laps and writing your opinion is just one part of a review there needs to be some scientific data presented. Does MXA own there own dyno, radar gun, and tape measure?

I now that track and dirt conditions will make a difference but just list that in the review.

If a basic test plan was followed then reads could look at the data compare bikes from any review done during any year and decide what is important to them.


My manger always says: "In GOD we trust all others bring data"


Posted by: will pattison---------------------

i tell you what IS cool in the u.k., and that is duallit toasters. marcus, are they easy to find? how much is 100 pounds in us dollars?

http://www.ogormans.co.uk/dualit.htm

wp.


Posted by: Okiewan---------------------

hot rod toasters? Gotta love it. Or at least love toast. :D


Posted by: XRpredator---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by Okiewan
hot rod toasters?

My only question is "Why?":confused:

Kinda like the Jet Engined Refrigerator from a while back, eh?


Posted by: will pattison---------------------

i know, i know. it's a design thing.

wp.


Posted by: marcusgunby---------------------

Im back with more ammo
try these links for cool non girly cars
http://www.tvr.co.uk/graphics/cerbe...tents_cerb.html

0-150mph in 17.9 seconds


http://www.westfield-sportscars.co.uk
click on showroom then SEIGHT
or even faster try the megabusa-no US car i know of can out accellerate that


lastlly back to MGs again

http://www.mg-rover.com/GoToLanding...y=en_GB&make=mg
then to development zone and then to models then to MGZT X power V8 engine 385hp 0-60 under 5seconds and 175mph

These are all production Uk cars

i think you will adgree the Uk has its good points and dont forget where do most of your indy cars come from?And most of the F1 cars are developed here as well.



Will £100 is about $144 but you can get dual toasters for less than that


Posted by: will pattison---------------------

what about my toaster?? :silly:

0-4 slices light brown in 4.25 minutes.

can you help?

wp.


Posted by: VintageDirt---------------------

For a NOT girly ride try this 227 MPH, 18,000 pound, unlimited diesel truck. CLICK

I know it's a little off topic, but it's pretty cool.


Posted by: XRpredator---------------------

Wes, is there anything left in this thread that is still on topic? :confused:


Posted by: Old CR goat---------------------

Toast!
Here's to ......?

I'll drink to that!


Posted by: Rich Rohrich---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by XRpredator
Wes, is there anything left in this thread that is still on topic? :confused:


In a way it's ALL on topic when you consider the Subject. This thread is an odd collection of scattered thoughts with no inherent value just like MXA, which may ultimately be What's Wrong With MXA . :D


Posted by: VintageDirt---------------------

I guess you guys are right.

Hey XRP did you hear about Arnold crashin' his bike in Santa Monica and bustin' up his ribs?


Posted by: XRpredator---------------------

Just read that on RacerX. I wonder if that'll delay shooting of Terminator3?


Posted by: Okiewan---------------------

Arnold is no "girly"man.
See how it all ties together?

Fastest production pucker-up on the planet... THIS is what you pull your trailer with:


Posted by: IDkTm---------------------

But its a Ford Okie.

Fix or Repair Daily
Found on Road Dead
etc....
Who's got more?


Posted by: VintageDirt---------------------

First On Race Day


Posted by: Farmer John---------------------

F***** Over Rebuilt Dodge
F****** Okies Really Dig-em


Posted by: bwalker---------------------

Quote:
For a NOT girly ride try this 227 MPH, 18,000 pound, unlimited diesel truck. CLICK

Now thats a truck. Whast eaven cooler is its powered by a 2 two stroke DD 8v96 diesels.


Posted by: Patman---------------------

Yeah but I bet it handles like a garbage scow!


Posted by: XRpredator---------------------

ol' Patman, bringin' 'er back around to the topic!:confused:


Posted by: VintageDirt---------------------

I'll bet nobody here at DRN, MXA, or DNR ever drove a garbage scow. I did get to drive a home made polish house boat once. That should be the same thing only different. Maybe a little less power down low and absolutly no over rev. Here's a pic of my buddy Captain Ron, swilling on swill, and piloting the scow in question.


Posted by: peabody---------------------

Wow! What is that smell?

Oh, I know it's the stench from this dead horse!

If you don't like the magazine, don't buy it. Isn't that simple.

However, it is one of the few magazines I can buy that doesn't have some has dressed female, who doesn't look like any female MXer I've ever seen, on every 12th page. I have 2 daughters that don't need to begin comparing themselves with "silicon women", so I don'r buy it.

Regarding the writing, I really like RacerX but like, Cycle World they've gotten to where they can't put two paragraphs together without profanity. I guess when you can't come up with something intelligent to say if you just swear it somehow makes you appear not so stupid.

Bye the way, how many of you buy any of your Motorcycles, parts, or gear based on the looks of the girl in tha advertisement?

Just wondering.


Posted by: VintageDirt---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by peabody
Wow! What is that smell?
For a second there I thought you were talking about my buddy Ron.
Or the smoke from that 60 horse Monkey Wards outboard.
I'm glad it was just that MXA dead horse again.


Posted by: Rich Rohrich---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by peabody
I guess when you can't come up with something intelligent to say if you just swear it somehow makes you appear not so stupid.


You're right, I think it's much better the MXA way. Everyone knows they are clueless twits and no amount of profanity will make them appear to be anything less.:D


Posted by: yardpro---------------------

that us monster would catch, run over and crush those girlie (but cool) uk things.:D


Posted by: spanky250---------------------

What's wrong with MXA? Look no further than the Jan. '02 issue for a perfect example of how innane they are. Here is an exerpt fom a fuel article:

Question One: What Is Octane?

A hydrocarbon chemical that burns very easily and is found in petroleum. Of all the chemicals used to formulate gasoline, octane is the most explosive one that can still handle lots of compression and heat without spontaneously igniting.

I think my 8 year old child could easily have made up something that ridiculous.


Posted by: VintageDirt---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by spanky250
Question One: What Is Octane
I'm the first to admit that I know nothing about gasoline and it's chemical constituents. In fact I'll be the first to admit that I don't know something even if I do know something.

Two things that I do know are: 1) there is a chemical called "octane", CAS Number 111-65-9. It is also called n-Octane and Normal Octane. And 2) n-Octane is used in gasoline.

While I am not going to get up on a soap box and defend MXA, I think there is a possibility their [MXA's] facts are accurate. Although of little use because it is obvious that the question "What is octane?" should refer to the octane number of gasoline, not the chemical octane.

I'm sure that Rich will soon add his expertise on the subject.


Posted by: spanky250---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by VintageDirt
I'm the first to admit that I know nothing about gasoline and it's chemical constituents. In fact I'll be the first to admit that I don't know something even if I do know something.

Two things that I do know are: 1) there is a chemical called "octane", CAS Number 111-65-9. It is also called n-Octane and Normal Octane. And 2) n-Octane is used in gasoline.

While I am not going to get up on a soap box and defend MXA, I think there is a possibility their [MXA's] facts are accurate. Although of little use because it is obvious that the question "What is octane?" should refer to the octane number of gasoline, not the chemical octane.

I'm sure that Rich will soon add his expertise on the subject.
If you read the article to be able to follow the context, they are talking about a fuel's ability to resist preignition, i.e. it's octane rating . Yes, the rating is determined by the chemistry of the fuel. No, it is not determined by adding more or less of a chemical called octane, as the article implies. There are lots of chemicals in gasoline, and the ultimate octane rating is determined by the overall composition.


Posted by: VintageDirt---------------------

You are correct, I should have read the article first. But I get Playboy for the articles and MXA for the pictures.

I think (as in do not know) that the octane rating of gasoline can be changed by adding octane. However, more octane in gasoline will lower the octane number. I believe (again as in don't know) that the octane number for octane is zero. So if that's true (big IF) then MXA is full of BS again.

So I'll shut up now and get my lazy butt back to work.


Posted by: spanky250---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by VintageDirt
However, more octane in gasoline will lower the octane number. I believe (again as in don't know) that the octane number for octane is zero.
If I'm not mistaken, Octane is 0, and Cetane is 100. I believe these are the references used for gasoline octane rating.


Posted by: XRpredator---------------------

Time for Rich to get in here and give us all a crash course!:think


Posted by: Rich Rohrich---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by XRpredator
Time for Rich to get in here and give us all a crash course!:think


A course on crashing, finally something I'm qualified to teach :D


In US gasoline testing heptane is the 0 number and iso-octane ( 2,2,4-trimethylpentane ) is the 100 number. For ratings below 100 the percentage of iso-octane in the final test sample determines the RON or MON number depending on the test conditions. For ratings above 100 different additives are introduced.

BTW, the MXA article was pretty badly flawed in a number of places and just really poorly written overall. It's a lot tougher than a fender sticker shootout so it's not surprisiing that they pooched it.


Posted by: Timr---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by marcusgunby
You guys crack me up-im going to bow out now while i have some dignity left.The UK has many good points but its prices on most things are not one of them:confused: besides im way out numbered here


Marcus,

I'll jump in on your side. I was born in Oxford and lived in England twice, but I do have to agree that the gas for $6.00 USD a gallon is a little ridiculous.

However, I spent most evenings in the pub watching proper "football" with the boys. All of the beer is not served warm. The selection of beers is way better than the stuff in the states.

Real Football played in the UK and throughout Europe makes Major League Soccer look like Youth YMCA soccer.

Rally racing looks really Fun! I hear they run rallies for off-road bikes. I would've like to try that.

Spectating the British 125/250 GP at Foxhill was great, even if it did rain all day (what do you expect, it's England).

Riding a dirtbike, that's street legal, through the traffic and streets of London looks better than any video game I've ever seen. The traffice signals light up Yellow before they go green just like turning the board sideways for the start. Then, all of the motorcycles luanch away from the stop light ahead of the cars. The guys who ride motorcycles for courier services are really nuts!!

If we had the opportunity, my wife would move back to England in a heartbeat, but I wouldn't be able to afford gas for the bike so we'll stay here...I guess.


Posted by: Timr---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by VintageDirt
You are correct, I should have read the article first. But I get Playboy for the articles and MXA for the pictures.



LOL!!


Posted by: Patman---------------------

Motor Octane (MON):
(a) CFR Tested @ 900 RPMs, timing is varied with compression ratio, fuel is preheated to 300 degrees Fahrenheit, intake air is preheated to 100 degrees Fahrenheit. (b) Motor Octane, measured under varying load is definitely the most representative octane measurement for Real World Hi-Performance Engine Applications. (c) The closer the Motor Octane number to the Research Octane number the more stable the fuel is throughout the RPM range (see the Octane Differential in the chart above). This is very critical when running higher that 7500+ RPMs engine speed.

R+M Octane (R+M):
(a) This method of measurement consists of adding together both the MOTOR and RESEARCH Octane numbers and then dividing by two. (b) This is the number in that yellow box that you see on the gas pumps. (c) This number should only be used when determining which fuel to use in your street car or tow vehicle. This method is NOT intended for correct use in your racing engine.

Research Octane (RON):
(a) CFR tested @ 600 RPMs, fixed timing at 13 degrees BTDC, fuel temp is not controlled and intake air is varied with the barometric pressure. (b) This is basically a No-Load test and this number should NEVER be used to determine which fuel to use in your race engine

Cetane is the diesel fuel rating scale.:D


Posted by: Offroadr---------------------

How about Bob morgan's boat from the Lake of the Ozarks. I have known this guy for about 10 years and he keep getting bigger toys

4 1150hp blower motors 160+ MPH and 800 gal fuel capacity


Posted by: zio---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by Rich Rohrich


...It's a lot tougher than a fender sticker shootout so it's not surprisiing that they pooched it.


What is pooched? Is it a sexual euphemism?


Posted by: marcusgunby---------------------

Tim R i was at foxhills that day-do you know what i did-i sold my tickets at the gate went home and got a bath just before it started on eurosprort-nice and dry


Posted by: spanky250---------------------

Quote:
Cetane is the diesel fuel rating scale.:D [/B]
Well, I knew I read the word somewhere...:o :confused:


Posted by: Rich Rohrich---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by zio


What is pooched? Is it a sexual euphemism?


ZIO - Feel free to interpret at your discretion :D


Posted by: Timr---------------------

Marcus,

Does it rain at every Foxhill event? The GP that I attended was in '99 (it was the GP after the rain shortened MXDesNations). Like I said, I had a great time, but it was cold and muddy. Ryno was there on the PAMO Honda as well as Mike Brown. Chiodi was amazing on his Husky until he lost the clutch in the second Moto and had to hike back to the paddock.

Paul Cooper gave the Brits something to cheer, and blow their air horns, about when he led part of the second 250 moto.

What a day. My only regret was that in the year that I lived there, I didn't get to do any riding. Oh, and I passed on a trip to go to Namur for the 500cc GP that year. I should've gone, then I'd be able to say that I've seen a GP in every class, a US MX, and SX. Oh well, I'll just have to go back over to complete the hat trick.


Posted by: bclapham---------------------

Marcus:

Sorry i didnt jump in on the Brit bashing earlier, work has been busy. i should have helped you out.
Dont let them get to you mate, i tried to explain to someone on here that if they didnt use as much gas driving to work then they would have a better likely hood of riding bikes for longer in the future... i got really slated for it! I suppose i am a hippocrite now since ive just bought a 4X4 toyota with a 3.4L engine, however, compared to the V8's its still very economical! also, its quite ironic that most american i have spoke to told me to buy japanese truck!

the americans are quite a funny bunch... they drink their tea cold and they have yet to be educated in the delights of a decent curry. they moan about warm british beer, but the stuff you get here is worse than dishwater! what is worse, you dont get a proper pint and it costs about a weeks wages! They have a game that sort of looks like rugby, but it takes several hours of start and stop and they have to wear crash helmets and more pads than MX riders.. now thats girly! and as for girly, they have a game called baseball, the same game that we let the girls play back home.... everyone knows real men play cricket!

It was nice to see someone also gave us brits credit for the spitfire... after being in the US for 2 years i have to remind myself that we actually took part in WWII and didnt just use up a few german bombs with our houses!

Americans, please dont take my comments the wrong way i am just having a bit of fun...ill expect a "if you dont like it here, go home"....i love it here but just like to poke fun at the americans once in a while... your are quite prepared to give it so you need to take it also aonce in a while!

One thing we all have in common is that we all think MXA is bogus, we need to unite on that front! i have a MXA subscription and i spend most of my time emailing them to find out where are my missing issues. i think this might be an omen!

Marcus, If you ever want to visit san diego drop me a line, hopefully i will be getting a new ride soon after a 5 year absence from riding, so you could sample some of the so cal riding also and tie it in with a vacation.

cheers

bruce.

ps. the guy who spoke about the octanes.. i was very impressed with your knowledge...the force is strong in you. I did a year work placment at an oil refinery running the octane tests you described, it brought back some memories.


Posted by: XRpredator---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by bclapham
. . . everyone knows real men play cricket!

What's that, chasin' bugs? :confused:

And what's wrong with iced tea? Cold tea's gotta be better than warm beer!

Nice to have some furriners around here with a sense of humor! Too bad MXA doesn't have one (bringin' 'er back around!!)


Posted by: Okiewan---------------------

LOL! Funny stuff.

But hey, don't you guys call the hood on a car a "bonnet"? Told ya they are girly cars.


Posted by: BunduBasher---------------------

Yeah, but you guys call the boot a trunk, not to mention who are the fairy's who invented the car bra - also who calls a moon bag (sporan) a fanny pack ! oooooh :scream:

Oh yeah, the hood is the top for a convertable


Posted by: Okiewan---------------------

Humm... seems to me "trunk" is a more accurate description of it than a "boot".
Oh wait! I get it!
It's no so much about what that part of the car is called, it's about where it located! Gotta give those cars a swift boot in the backside to get them going?


Posted by: bclapham---------------------

XRpredator:

thanks for realizing i was just having a laugh. if you have followed english cricket for anytime you have to generate a good sense of humor at some point. we are doing well with the rugby at the moment though which is nice.

being a brit or even english, it becomes quite frustrating inventing all of these games, then dominating for a bit and then sucking at them forever more! i think at sometime we were even quite good at "scrambling", and one Mr. Carl Fogarty has ruled the superbike world for sometime!

if you yanks think we are fairies, please watch the Isle of Man TT. Even better, go overthere and give it a go. the TT has got to be one of the scariest races in the world (i am sure i will be corrected in due course).

getting back to MXA, has anyone ever written to them? i wrote via their website requesting info on certain dirtbike laws in california, i sent about 5 questions and got a one line reply!... are they ignorant or do they not know what is happening in their own buisiness?

later


Posted by: Rich Rohrich---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by bclapham
, and one Mr. Carl Fogarty has ruled the superbike world for sometime!


There was a rumor circulating that King Carl was going to try his hand at Super Motard racing. Apparently his injuries still allow him to ride in the upright position and he still has the fire in him. Any word in the UK on him racing again other than running his new team?


Posted by: bclapham---------------------

Rich:

i think the king came off his motard earlier this year and broke something....but dont quote me i am not quite sure. so i dont think he will be racing, however, he is going to start the superbike season late with his new team (they have to build and sell the production bikes first!), they are having trouble signing riders because of this, so dont be suprised if you see him back on a superbike later in the year...i am sure he could ride again and it would nice to see him start at any of the british rounds....and of course us brits would go absolutely nuts if he did!

i have some freinds who have met foggy and his family several times through his career and what is nice to know is that he is reported to be a very nice guy. heck, my friends mum is one of his biggest fan and was asked to run his fan club... but she couldnt do it because of work commitments. they even have a signed foggy helmet on the mantle peice!


Posted by: Rich Rohrich---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by bclapham
.i am sure he could ride again and it would nice to see him start at any of the british rounds....and of course us brits would go absolutely nuts if he did!


So would a lot of Yanks :D


Posted by: bclapham---------------------

Rich:

this is totally strange, shouldnt you disagree with me out of principle?


Posted by: Rich Rohrich---------------------

No way, Foggy is the man. He's outspoken and can back it up. Hard not to root for a guy like that. Besides I want to see a healthy Foggy and a competitive Ben Bostrom backing their Ducatis into the corners elbow to elbow. Bostrom just won a big Super Motard race in Italy that was attended by some of the WSB regulars. I was hoping to see Foggy's name in the results.

http://www.amasuperbike.com/011208a.htm
http://www.amasuperbike.com/image/italy/bol_motor_show/


Posted by: bclapham---------------------

Rich:

Neal Hodgson is also a very nice guy, he went back to the british series and won that and also some WSB races as a wildcard. the at donnington park, he won a WSB, and some of britsh fans took their clothes off and ran up the straightaway to celebrate! too mch cold beer me thinks!

Hodgson did well last season (very well considering he was on the previous years bike) and in several cases was up with bostrom and bayliss. dont be suprised to see him contending for the title this year...and dont be affraid to route for him, he has had a lot of setbacks and he has come through it with determination....a good trait in my book!

did you realise foggy and hodgson started out doing MX?


Posted by: Rich Rohrich---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by bclapham
did you realise foggy and hodgson started out doing MX?


Watching how hard Hodgson was pushing his bike this year it doesn't surprise me . Bostrom grew up on US dirt tracks and his style reflects that as well.

Can't wait for next season to start.


Posted by: marcusgunby---------------------

Bruce thanks for your kind offer but unfortunatly i dont think i will see the US as i have a phobia of flying-4 hours and im trying to open the hatch.I can fly on the Cr o.k. but planes that big shouldnt be able to stay up and my brain says it wont-irrational fears are hard to overcome.Maybe one day.

On Foxhills i think the problem was when they moved the date to May as you know i nearly always rains in May.The last couple of years we have a bright spell in Feb March April then rain in May June and sunny and hot for about 4 months then it gets cold and rainy again.

BTW i live about 20minutes from Donnington- in Leicester

On road racing have you watched Chris Walker ride? He used to race in the AMCA championships and at local tracks could lap me after about 12minutes-he would come by me in full tankslapper mode and never shut off
:scream: he would get it under control before the corner and just nail it again-did it every time.
For anyone wondering how fast a modified Cr500 is, Chris Walker bought a RWJ 500 in the 250 frame.He could not hold it flat out and openly admitted it was too much for him.My friend owsn it now and keeps offering me a go one meeting-ive managed to bluff my way out of it so far but he will pin me down one day-i only weigh 170lb and stand 5'5" how will i start the beast

Back to subject matter if you come over to the Uk come and visit me and i will take you to some curry houses-Leicester has some of the best outside India.

Onto Yank bashing- has anyone seen the film where the americans resue the enigma decoding machine from a german sub-anyone know what was wrong in that film??Only an american would go as far as rewriting history to sell a few videos incoming


Posted by: motometal---------------------

this thread is about mxa....


Posted by: bclapham---------------------

Quote:
"this thread is about MXA...."


sorry dude, i dont know how it came of the subject of MXA and into a WSB and england vs USA discussion.

maybe we should ask MXA what went wrong!


Posted by: spanky250---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by motometal
this thread is about mxa....
not any more...:confused:


Posted by: Rich Rohrich---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by bclapham
maybe we should ask MXA what went wrong!


No point in that, they would just blame the triple clamps :silly:


Posted by: XRpredator---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by Rich Rohrich
. . . they would just blame the triple clamps :silly:

So this thread handles like a garbage scow!


Posted by: VintageDirt---------------------

Hey, did I mention that time when I was a garbage scow captain? No? Well never mind.

I think those scientist over at MXA (or maybe it's scientologists) get everything wrong on purpose. Why would a major publication print blatently incorrect information? Because they want to, I say. Wouldn't it be a lot easier to leave out the gasoline article if no body on the staff knows jack about it. After all, there ain't know Texaco ads in the book.:confused:


Posted by: rollingp---------------------

Remember it is a magazine and they only want to do one thing,

SELL MAGAZINES

what ever brand of motorcycle spends the most money on adds
gets the best write ups.

anyone who owns ktms knows they will turn as good if not better than the
japs. The problem with most people that have little or no experiance with ktms is they are trying to set sag etc like a jap bike.
This does not work on the linkless machine.
KTM makes a far superior bike than most.
The mags never drive that point home.
Replacable brake pedal bearings.
Shock removable without removing anything such as rear wheel.
Forged bushed levers with breaking notches
braided stainless cables
etc etc etc .
Reading mxa should be for entertainment not for real facts.
I figured that out back in the late 1970s.
30 + A rider Dist 14 and 15.


Posted by: rollingp---------------------

Honda 450 is agood bike and I am a diehard KTM man.
I have less than $100.00 in my 520 suspension and it rocks.
Suspension valving is not that complicated.
Spending 600 or 700 bucks is a waste and a rip.
Most of the time a shim shuffle and proper set up is all that is needed.
Guys like WHITE BROS are full of it making statements that KTMs
are unridable out of the box.
Getting rid of the crap front tire makes such an improvement.
Oil level in the 02 forks is way too high and thats why they are so harsh.
No need for clamps and the same goes for the 450 honda.
Go the cheep route with oil heights and weights, pre load
fork tube height, proper shock sag and dont be afraid to turn a few clickers just understand what they do first.


Posted by: marcusgunby---------------------

Just to change the track of this tread once again-Travis Prastrana came to the UK recently and achieved a lifetime ambition-to drive a FULL ON rally car-he met up with the works Subaru team on the last rally of the year.They let him drive a pukka works WRX -he said it was one of the best days of his life.It was in a place called Wales if youve heard of it-even more wet and cold than mainland England.Very good rally roads however.Richard Burns won the World Championship-the 1st for a British Driver


Posted by: rollingp---------------------

COOL !


Posted by: slideways11---------------------

Super Motard is cool but when I was living in Germany a n MX buddy of mine took me to a speedway race. I must say it was the most exciting thing I have ever watched. These guys were seriously backing there bikes into the turns and they reek of horsepower.If you ever get the chance to go do it you won't be dissapointed.


Posted by: will pattison---------------------

i think this thread is cool. it's meandered a bit, to be sure, but it feels like a bunch of guys that love motorcycles and racing just hanging out and letting the conversation go where it will.

the only thing missing is the cold beer!

wp.


Posted by: Timr---------------------

Marcus,

When I lived there, I saw some information about a Rally driving school/experience at Brands Hatch. Do you know anything about this? I thought that it would be fun to attend the day school. The one thing that I was curious about was wether or not they had any cars with left hand drive configurations.

I got used to right hand drive while I was there, but I instictively would reach for the gear selector (shifter to us yanks) with my right hand first and smash my right hand into the door before I reached with my left. I'm sure that in a performance driving situation, that I would drive much better in the position that feels natural to me, and that's the left hand seat with Right hand on the shifter.

BTW, great TV coverage of the World Rally series over there. I watched it every Saturday morning.


Posted by: marcusgunby---------------------

Tim i was thinking the same about the courses but ive read up a little and its not soo good.£100-250 but at some you only get 30minutes in the car-the rest is in the classroom or real old escorts-too much money IMO-i can race for a couple of months for the same money.
No left hand drives as far as i know-no real need i suspect.

I get eurosport on satellite tv and its free-it has FIM rally/motocross and supercross and loads of other mad motorsports including those mad 1200hp hillclimbers.Channel 5 has AMA SX/MX thats only 1-2 weeks ago as well as indy cars/indy lights.Channel 4 has UK SX so we get good coverage.


Posted by: bclapham---------------------

it sound like the telly has improved in the uk since i left. i used to watch FIM motocross on eurosport, but unfortunately we dont get it here. thus, in the US (where i am any way) you get world superbikes/supersport, FIM motorcyle GP, formula 1 cars and AMA SX/MX, i would like the FIM MX so i could make the full set though. i also used to enjoy the british superbikes also but we dont get that here. i have been watching british touring cars here though!

cheers


Posted by: marcusgunby---------------------

bclapham you havnt missed anything this year(FIM MX) with the 1 moto format its real boring.


Posted by: Timr---------------------

bclapham,

Yesterday, on two-wheeled Tuesday, on Speedvision, they showed World Speedway racing. It was way cool. It was on twice during the day. Once around 11:00am Central and again about 11:00pm Central. I only caught part of each broadcast, but they didn't appear to be the same events.

The speedway scene looked pretty big in the UK and Europe, from what I could tell by reading the local bike mags. I hope that we continue to get that coverage. I've always found speedway racing to be quality entertainment.

Marcus,
When you watch world Rally on TV, don't all of the drivers accept for the the UK & Jap drivers drive left hand drive cars? Seems to me that any school or driving experience would have a need for left hand drive cars for anyone who comes from non-right hand drive countries. Just my opinion.

I'd still love to get behind the wheel of one of those cars. I heard a story when I was in the UK about two guys who would go out and drive the closed roads of the British Rally on the Monday and Tuesday after the event. They apparently sneaked onto their course in their own car and had a blast. Is this possible?


Posted by: bclapham---------------------

Timr:

yeah, i saw it also and it was cool. the german speedway GP was on last week and last night i saw the british gp from wales. did you see that wheelie that british guy did in the middle of the race, i couldnt believe he didnt flip it

(it reminded me of a wheelie i saw from a motorcycle GP a few years ago, the race winner pulled a massive wheelie over the finish line and the bike went completely vertical! how he didnt come of was wierd since it looked like he broke every law of physics known!)

speedway is very big in england (it used to be anyway) a common variant is grass bike racing, the same bikes but on grass and not shale. they have a "chair" class, a motorcycle side car combo (2 dudes) these things are powered by 750-1000cc engines that come from very fast road bikes...very scary!

If you ever get chance, check out the Stock car racing from europe. its not like nascar, the formula one class look like outlaw cars, but they are equipped with big steel fenders front and back and big tuned up V-8 chevy engines imported from here. they race an oval format (ashfalt or shale) protected from the crowd with steel girders supporting a wirecable fence. this stuff is wild, they are getting upto 90mph down the straights and the object is to knock the guy infront out of the way. full on sideways action, with lots of shunts, but a race to the finish rather than a destruction derby!

cheers

bruce


Posted by: Timr---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by bclapham


(it reminded me of a wheelie i saw from a motorcycle GP a few years ago, the race winner pulled a massive wheelie over the finish line and the bike went completely vertical! how he didnt come of was wierd since it looked like he broke every law of physics known!)



I have this one in MPEG format on my hard drive. It's fun to watch in slow motion. I saw lots of interesting racing on TV when I lived in London. I never saw the stock car racing that you refered to. I saw over the road rigs racing GP style. I also saw indoor GP karting events. And of course, European touring cars. I'll keep an eye open for that stock car stuff If I ever get back over there.


Posted by: marcusgunby---------------------

Tim you maybe right (or left if you get the joke)but the schools dont have many cars to choose from.Also im not sure a visitor would get the insurance backed when you enroll-i maybe completely wrong but basically they are a fun experience if you have the money.They dont really let you go mad however- its all under strict controls.
On the rallying - i would think it possible to sneak in and drive the course but not in my car-the underside of the cars are battered after each event-i read a write up on prepping a rally car it said:

Each rally the engine/gearbox/suspension stripped measured and rebuilt-installed in car ran for 40 minutes then oil from gearbox is ran through a partical filter-if any metal flakes are seen gearbox is stripped again.Engine put on dyno-any power loss and its stripped again.

Every 3 rallies the shell is sand blasted as the paint used each rally puts it over the max weight wanted. Then the shell is rewelded where needed and repainted and put on a jig to check for alignment.This takes 800 man hours alone.

After all this is done, ive watched on telly Colin McRae then storm off, and only 2 miles down the road hes flipped end over end 3 times, and the rally championship is over as is the car.

Speedway is mad- we used to have a track in the centre of town with houses all around,60hp 4 stoke singles with no brakes and weigh about the same as a 80:scream: they dont have gears BTW

Have you seen Russian speedway-they have 3" spikes tyres and run on ice and lean way more than a GP road race bike-they are mad.


Posted by: bagolies---------------------

Reading MXA or any other mx mag should not be taken too seriously, They all try to slant the truth, whether intentionally or not, I read all the mags out there and just try to draw my own conclusions from the info they present.:confused:


Posted by: XtremeAir125---------------------

I like reading TransWorld Motocross myself, as well as DirtRider and DirtBike. Everytime I read MXA it's the same thing over and over again. Yamahas get A+, while the others get B's and C's. The only thing I like about MXA is the cover :D


Posted by: RYDMOTO---------------------

I think MXA is great bathroom reading material.....when it comes to #2,they are #1........


Posted by: gibbs_6---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by RYDMOTO
I think MXA is great bathroom reading material.....when it comes to #2,they are #1........

ROTFL.


Posted by: VintageDirt---------------------

Wasn't this a funny thread?

It were.

Thought you'd appreciate it.

Thanks. I did.

Take it easy.

See ya.


Posted by: slideways11---------------------

I went to Cancun the other day...it is the only place to buy American magazines and MXA was 98 pesos thats $9.80 US..... must be that NAFTA thing at work!


Posted by: kelsorat---------------------

All the American MX mags try to balance the need for advertising dollars and good info to keep you interested. Some are better than others at providing riding tips or how-to articles, and some definitely are shooting for the easily influenced type with a load of cash wanting to buy a bike or some new gear.
One thing for sure, no American mag knows how to cover the sport properly. How can you cover a National with what amounts to 1 page of text.
Cycle News is about the only source for good race coverage.


Posted by: nephron---------------------

Ooohh, ooh, ooh Jody!!! How can I make my bike as good as yours???"Call ProCircuit and ask for MXA valving" :silly:
"X 'must have''s for your 250XX--followed by specific jet #'s and spring rates, irregardless of rider weight/capability, temp, altitude, etc."
"Suzuki RM250's are fabled in SX/MX. They rip!...this comment preceded a few issues by "this bike is junk", etc.
"WHAT DO WE REALLY THINK?---CRF150 (in comparison to TTR125, DRZ125) is the number one choice because it's 'bigger, faster and stiffer' than the other playbikes" OK, so that makes an ATK700 Intimidator the best 'playbike' ever? :silly:
Their information is jaded by pretentious assumptions, their tech articles are crap, and the journalism is all pretty much blatantly leading questions, followed by absolute, brief and unexplained answers. It's junk--but I probably would have really 'dug' it when I was in High School.


Posted by: bclapham---------------------

Wesbaca, you are a bad man for bringing this one back from the dead!


Posted by: flynbryan---------------------

Kind of like a Jason movie........we keep killing it........and it keeps coming back...... :scream: :scream:


Posted by: d.u.g.---------------------

i think MXA is pathetic,and has been for a very long time.
They were reveiwing an aftermaket clutch cover and said"Ricky Carmichael runs one because blah-blah-blah". What B.S. Carmichel could care less about type of clutch cover.
In a spasm of political correctness,now refering to a rider they will write"He or She". Have they no idea on how to use pronouns?
They constantly refer to 'running"this,or "running " that. Very poor writing skills.
Oh how I miss Rick Sieman.Thankfully he still writes for Off-Road.com ! Doug


Posted by: bclapham---------------------

so here are some classics from this months MXA. (paraphrased)

We built a CRF480 with a PC pipe and ran it on VP ulttimate 4 to get an increase of 3HP.

later on...we took a stock CRF450 and found when we used VP ultimate 4 we got a 3HP gain :silly:

"we dont make any more fun of the French than we do the British"

wankers!

"the Yz134 and 139 kits are terrific value at $781, but the yz144 isnt as good a choice . It actually makes less horsepower than its smaller breathen, vibrates more, and costs about $500 more (because of case work involved)."

i wonder if this is because many of RPMs competitors do the 144 kit at a fraction of this price????

On the yz250 V-force "be prepared to have detonation problems"

On the yz250 fatty pipe "as soon as we installed the fatty and did one lap, we heard detonation under a load"

the mind boggles- surely their jetting specs couldnt be off?????


Posted by: dbrace---------------------

Wow, i just found this thread and it took me six cold vb's to reyd it all the wey threw. Eye think MXAY neyd two get there fax strate espeshaly when it cums to the reyson wy sum riders dont perform and howthe hellcantheysaythatyzedshavegoodsuspensionitsasharshasallf!@#.


Posted by: Okiewan---------------------

okay...


Posted by: clutchcover---------------------

What???????


Posted by: XRpredator---------------------

is it bad that I understood? :confused:


Posted by: Farmer John---------------------

The thread that would not die....


Posted by: Creeper9---------------------

I know I'm late with this one, but back to the US / UK transportation side debate.

These are the kind of bikes WE ride in the US.

P.S. Sorry for the grainy nature of the pic. It's old. Can anyone guess who this is?


Posted by: markthomps---------------------

Anybody want to hear from an actual former moto-mag editor? MXA is a money machine for Hi-Torque and their primary focus is to keep things that way. Just look at all the kiss-ass "feature stories" like "Somecompany's Name Top Ten Products" which is nothing but free advertising (except you get to pay to read it). Jody's riding skills are poor to mediocre and that's reflected in some of the tests and all of his opinions. The flip side to that is that most of the testers (and about everybody in the photos) is a pro rider, and the experts have far different expectations for a bike. So what you get is a mish-mash test that tends to be a collection of comments from a pro (most of whom are sponsored and know what they need to say to stay sponsored). Average, intermediate level riders are rarely or never included in the testing, and the testing itself is often a one-day affair. And more than once the "test" was conducted during the manufacturers media intro day. You also gotta love all the tests of modified bikes that have received one of everything in the accessory catalog and now costs twice retail --- do you actually know anyone who has such a bike with $5000 of options and modified parts? It's just another advertiser plug. They're also strictly a SoCal mag, believing that the mx world begins and ends in LaLa Land. So there jetting tips and other tech advice is built around sea-level, zero humidity, 90-degree weather --- nothing at all like the midwest racetracks. I could go on. It's not that they're intentionally dishonest; they just don't really give a damn about the average rider who pays his own bills. They're out of touch in part becuz they get their bikes and gear and tires for free and if anything goes wrong, they get it fixed for free. That tends to warp your perception . . . and that's why MXA has lost its way.


Posted by: d.u.g.---------------------

Mark,
Nice job,way better than I could have worded it.
Their last 250 comparison,one side of one page per bike.Pretty lame,isn't it?
Remeber when tests had photos of split cases,the whole bike torn down and ready for inspection?
You had great points about their "Socal" bias,too.
Their 'setup" info does suck.They think everone likes rock hard suspension,especialy forks,whatever the latest fad is.Their own magazine quoted Hannah about suspension being set too hard these days.
So skimpy on content,then they print like 8 pages of some 'muliha"(gag!) road trip.Oh,and pages of deep interviews with pre-pubescent mini riders!
I'm all for helping kids,and do,but come on!
What a crushing bore the magazine has become. Doug


Posted by: MX2_motorex---------------------

I know there has been tons of post about why MXA is bad or good and what not and I hope this thred doesn't get closed. But i just wasted $5 at the supermakret for MXA for the last time. Its there latest issue right. They do a test again on the crf480 like last year, and on there fmf crf project the kept going on about how much better the yz450 is even though they'er talking about hte crf!!! Then I almost killed myself reading jody's colem again. And MXA stop with the air filter maitinaing tips you don't have to be a broken record, im sure everybody who's read your mag knows how to do there air filter!


Posted by: markthomps---------------------

D.U.G: Actually the only reason I even buy a copy now and then is when I'm bucks-up and looking to buy some new toys. I kinda hate to have to buy a catalog, but at least it's a reasonably current catalog. Few to none of the "stories" have any interest, especially most of the interviews. I was just leafing thru a back issue and they were proclaiming the '97 Honda CR250 as one of the top ten bikes of the decade. Having owned one, I won't hesitate to tell you that this bike was probably the worse thing to ever where a Honda logo. Honda should've bought them back from the customers. Typical MXA to praise the wrong thing. By the way, there are such things as real motorcycle journalists, professionally trained and so on. I'm one, got the resume to prove it. We've got a different set of ethics than most moto-mag staffers, sad to say. Most of these guys got into the biz by accident (they got lucky or knew somebody), or they work very cheaply (a requirement to be employed by Hi-Torque), or have good riding skills.


Posted by: truespode---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by markthomps
there are such things as real motorcycle journalists, professionally trained and so on.



Don't tell that to Tolson. I said they weren't journalists a while back and he was not in agreement.

I will give them credit on getting a lot of news stories out first lately (like MC's retirement).

Ivan


Posted by: holeshot---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by markthomps
I was just leafing thru a back issue and they were proclaiming the '97 Honda CR250 as one of the top ten bikes of the decade. Having owned one, I won't hesitate to tell you that this bike was probably the worse thing to ever where a Honda logo. Honda should've bought them back from the customers.


I had one of those ('97 CR250) too. It was ill suspended and handled like a garbage scow (or, if you prefer, a lame Camel in a high wind).


Posted by: kbud---------------------

It really does seem like alot of the staff of magazines fell into their job. I'm not saying that they aren't qualified (even if they aren't), it's just that they know someone, or their dad's brother's uncle is a test rider. I think that if they looked harder, they could find a person with more knowlege and valuble input.


Posted by: nephron---------------------

Mark, do you know Scott Wallenburg?

I was shopping with the hunney at GAP, or such, in a mall in Caesar's palace the weekend of the SX in Vegas, and I saw him wearing a RacerX 'pitpass' T-Shirt. So I go over and strike up a conversation, and proceed to tell him RacerX is the most pristine example of what an MX journalistic piece should look like, etc., etc. ---there's a chorus of 'thank you's' etc. (he is basically responsible for the mag being here). Then I say something derogatory about MXA, and he doesn't say anything. So I do it again, and he tells me he worked for Jody for 27 years and was at MXA when it was 'great'. His prime interest is 'upstarting' mags, and he's responsible for starting Road RacerX as well.

Funny thing, he wouldn't say anything bad about MXA, even though I was doing everything except jabbing him in the ribs with a hot poker. Seemed like a reasonably nice guy. All he could say about the weasel is that 'you gotta be in his circle, or you're out' kinda thing. :silly:


Posted by: Thump---------------------

Well I guess I am in the minority.... I read it and I like it. Basically after 5 hours of staring at the computer trying to figure out how to solve a problem it is somewhat relaxing for me to sit at the park on my lunch hour and page through the magazines that are centered around my sport and NOT overly technical... If I want technical I will read a manual or call Rich and I have been know to do both. MXA may not be te best mag out there but its there and it helps me get my head out of the daily grind before I go back to staring at the computer for the remaining 3-5 hours each day... I really like RacerX and Transworld but I read MXA and DR too.

On another note I met Tim Olson at the Vet National at Glen Helen and he is a a pretty nice guy. Seems like he is just like the rest of us... only he gets paid write about stuff we do as a sport.

You also have to think about this... a writer's work is publicly on display for critism the day it gets published. If your 40hrs a week job performance was put on display for critique how would you fare? Some of us would do well others not, my point is some people are are better than others at their jobs, even in writing.


Posted by: Rich Rohrich---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by Thump
On another note I met Tim Olson at the Vet National at Glen Helen and he is a a pretty nice guy. Seems like he is just like the rest of us...


Guess again Mister.
Some of us still believe in the sanctity of the written word and consider it something to be treated as sacred. :thumb:


Posted by: truespode---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by Thump
a writer's work is publicly on display


That is fine by me. I have no problem with them being magazine writers or story tellers or columnists. It is when they bring up journalism that I get the spur in my britches.

I will give them props to getting the scoop on the MC story and having both Brown and Hughes side of the Budd's Creek altercation put on the net before anyone else. More of that and I'll change my tune.

I read MXA every month. I want to support those that support our sport and I believe that MXA does that, even if it is not the most preferred way. However, I treat it as good material to pass the time and use as a catalog.

However, since my cousin has been shipped to Iraq I have now found a new use for my bike mags (I subsribe to Dirtrider, Dirtbike, TWMX, MXA and Racer X). I put them all in a pile after I read them and have them shipped over to him. This month will be the inaugural shipment.

Maybe everyone else can do the same? For us that are in the sport MXA has its issues but if everyone sends a copy overseas to someone they know who is serving then it would definately be a positive thing IMO.

Ivan


Posted by: Patman---------------------

Gota' go with Rich on this one Thump. In most areas of employment if you are not good at your job you are canned or left to rot in the corner. Granted there are exceptions but these usually occur at fast food places. It seems that the dirt bike magazine arena at least is rife with twits that have their job because of WHO not WHAT they know. I too like to purge my head with a break from the monitor but MXA is so lame it makes my head hurt because of the complete lack of anything. I think I'd rather read the junk mail my wife gets from Coldwater Creek or Cosmo!

I believe where some of us are coming from is we remember the days when the magazines were actually GOOD! There was great write ups on bikes with useful detail, reports on rides that most anybody relate to (yeah I'd like to go ride with Albee in Africa but I think riding with Oldguy in Oklahoma is more realistic), useful tech info, and it seemed that the people working for them actually had a clue and cared.


Posted by: jmics19067---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by Thump

You also have to think about this... a writer's work is publicly on display for critism the day it gets published. If your 40hrs a week job performance was put on display for critique how would you fare? Some of us would do well others not, my point is some people are are better than others at their jobs, even in writing.


ahh I dont like that statement at all whether you believe it or not just about everybodies work is out there to recognized as either outstanding, adaquite or just plain lame.

anything from getting the wrong hamburger at the local fast food joint to a doctor giving a wrong prescription will be known to those it affects. The problem with them is not just the mistakes, it is that they are in the position to sway the opinion of many and they think that they are the Bible when it comes to racing literature. To giveout false information proclaiming it is the truth is either ignorant, malicious or in their case butt kissing accolades to the advertisers.

to read the mag isnt bad but you just have to deciper whether it belongs in the truth, fiction, comedy or horror section.


Posted by: nephron---------------------

Right on, jmics19067

That's one of the best descriptions (of MXA) that I've ever read.


Posted by: Thump---------------------

Rich, if we were talking about a text book or manual I would understand your "treated as sacred" comment but we are not. We are talking about a magazine that is intended to be read for fun ad enjoyment. Some enjoy it while others don't, it is all a matter of opinion.

Quote:
Originally posted by Patman
In most areas of employment if you are not good at your job you are canned or left to rot in the corner.
I think I said some were better than others, not that some were not good. I know beyond a shaddow of doubt that I am far better at my job than some of my co-workers which means I pull longer hours and produce more work but enjoy no additional benefits. I still need them and I would not consider firing them even though they do 1:10 of the work I do.

Ivan, that is a great idea. :thumb:

Quote:
Originally posted by jmics19067
.......getting the wrong hamburger at the local fast food joint to a doctor giving a wrong prescription will be known to those it affects.
Your analogy is rights and wrongs which is not really what is being dicussed. A better analogy would be going out to eat and getting poor service Vs getting outstanding service... the endresult is you still get to eat. Even then with poor service it is made appearant to 1 maybe 2 people, not displayed for critique by the thousands.

You know how I know I am right about this? Because it is my opinion and nothing more. Rich, Pat, jmics... and the rest you are all right too because they are your opinions and nothing more.


Posted by: Patman---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by Thump
Rich, Pat, jmics... and the rest you are all right...

Well at least you realized we're right


Posted by: Patman---------------------

It just crossed my mind how to resolve this. EVERYBODY knows MAD Magazine is nothing but a joke, they make no bones about their content being nothing but. So if MXA was renamed to Mad MXA or MadX Action or something then everyone would be aware of what the true content is


Posted by: jmics19067---------------------

Quote:
Your analogy is rights and wrongs which is not really what is being dicussed. A better analogy would be going out to eat and getting poor service Vs getting outstanding service... the endresult is you still get to eat. Even then with poor service it is made appearant to 1 maybe 2 people, not displayed for critique by the thousands.

You know how I know I am right about this? Because it is my opinion and nothing more. Rich, Pat, jmics... and the rest you are all right too because they are your opinions and nothing more.


it doesn't matter how many people it affects it is still affecting the people who are paying for the service, and if the lousy service happens repeatedly it is more than just a simple mistake. that waiter/waitress would get canned because too many people he/she served would not be happy. this would probably happen first shot at a 5 star restaraunt where you expect things to be impeccably perfect. Might not ever happen at a Hooters if the asthetics can supersede.


That is when you will have to decide whether you want to pay for lousy service<mxa being an sae paper with objectivity for better performance> just to see the asthetics.


Posted by: Rich Rohrich---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by Thump
Rich, if we were talking about a text book or manual I would understand your "treated as sacred" comment but we are not. We are talking about a magazine that is intended to be read for fun ad enjoyment.


David - I agree that it doesn't matter in the "enjoyment" parts of the magazine. It's like music at some point, whether someone enjoys those parts of the mag is all a matter of taste . I would think the basic pride instinct would kick in when they sit down to write, but maybe not.

BUT, when they present their words as some sort of gospel (something they seem quite fond of), then I personally think a different degree of accountability comes with the territory.

Ultimately you are correct, everyone is entitled to their opinion on such things. Life is much simpler anyway when I stick to applying my standards to my written words Besides I wrote the dirt bike mags off long as a source off anything remotely usefull when the geniuses at Dirt Rider decided Eric Gorr was a threat and removed him from the mag because he became too popular with the readers. That sort of bizzaro world logic makes my head hurt and my skin crawl, and is just as prevelant in the Hi-Torque offices.

FWIW, I'm sure Tim Olson is a nice guy; so is my Dad, but that doesn't make him qualified to write for MXA either. :thumb:


Posted by: Thump---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by Rich Rohrich
BUT, when they present their words as some sort of gospel (something they seem quite fond of), then I personally think a different degree of accountability comes with the territory.
I do agree with that 100%. I guess since I don't and never have read it as Gospel it does not come across that way to me. Pat's MAD analogy is perfect! I read it for the s#its and grins.


Posted by: MrLuckey---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by Thump
I read it for the s#its and grins.


Reading MXA gives you the s#its? Finally we all know the cause behind the famous Muenster porta potty incident


Posted by: jmics19067---------------------

Quote:
Rider decided Eric Gorr was a threat and removed him from the mag because he became too popular with the readers.



heh You know back when I used to look forward to the new months magazines "DR Dirt" and "Mr Know It All" where my favorite articles from the respective mags for obviously different reason. I can't belive that is why Mr Gorr stopped doing his bit.
Kinda like biting off your nose to spite your face thing.

Rich,

I kinda remember something about a shootout between DR Dirt and Mr KIA
in dirt bike a few years back where they both answered the same questions.
Is my presumption of Mr Gorr going "what the heck are you talking about" to Mr Krause ring remotely true?


Posted by: Rich Rohrich---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by jmics19067
Is my presumption of Mr Gorr going "what the heck are you talking about" to Mr Krause ring remotely true?


Eric said that so many times to Vic Krause over the years I'm not sure I can distinguish one instance from the other.

To be fair, when Vic wrote an entertainment column that occasionally had a few technical tid bits, while Eric wrote a technical column that was entertaining. It's not a fair comparision IMO.


Posted by: jmics19067---------------------

If I remember correctly this particular article was along the lines of feeling out which way they wanted that area to go. It was right around or in between the eras of Super HUnky starting to get disgusted and Eric writing for D.R.

It contained both aspects of the different writers with them taking jabs at each other along the way. It appeared to be fun for them and was very entertaining , with , MR KIA berating some mini racer as usual and MR Gorr telling the old coot to shutup and giving a technical responce, type stuff.

But it was a bit ago for me to remember .


Posted by: ktmboy---------------------

I have to go along with the crowd that picks up an MXA only when they need a new catalogue. The December issue is the best for this as it contains twice the usual amount of full color advertising, and is just in time for my X-Mas wish list!


Posted by: bclapham---------------------

great article on race gas this month- apparently, when using this hightly oxygenated ultimate 4 fuel, there is no need to re-jet your bike that was set up for pump gas. Also, the U-4 is good stuff since it burns 100 degrees cooler and so your engine runs cooler.:thumb:


Posted by: kisner1---------------------

I bought one about 10 years ago and it never crossed my mind to get another.

Does anyone remember how good cycleworld was in late seventies and early eighties? I still have most of them stuck back in my attic.


Posted by: d.u.g.---------------------

Kisner,
I remember how good it was,so was Cycle,and both MXA and Dirt Bike.Remember how when they tested new bikes they'd tear them down,split the cases.then show pictures of the internals?They fid that a lot,especially if it was a brand new model.
I use MXA and Dirt Bike as catalogs now.like a lot of guys.Especially MXA,it's simplistic,biased and inane 'writing'does nothing but torque me off! Doug


Posted by: CR Swade---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by d.u.g.
Kisner,
Especially MXA,it's simplistic,biased and inane 'writing'does nothing but torque me off! Doug


I don't get it, then why does everybody read it? I see a buch of guys complaining, then they pick up the next issue w/out fail. I've said it before with a bunch of flack afterwords, but it is real simple...DON'T READ THE MAGS THAT MAKE YOU MAD. Yeah we can all sit around and say "Gosh those magazines used to be sooo wonderful and now they <insert descriptive word here>", or quit reading the offending articles that cause all of the discomfort. Or here is a notion...everybody that can do better collectively put together a rag. Call it "MX Mag That Doesn't Suck...No Really, Our Magazine Is Much Better" :confused:


Posted by: nephron---------------------

Quote:
Or here is a notion...everybody that can do better collectively put together a rag. Call it "MX Mag That Doesn't Suck...No Really, Our Magazine Is Much Better"


Yeah, well...having a good rag and an ultimately, really successful rag seem to be mutually exclusive concepts, with the exception of RacerX. Why? Obviously, they don't review product. A classic example was when the buttwipes at Fasstco threatened to sue Okie over Pattison's review of their spoke torque wrench. That raises serious, serious questions over what control these jerks have over what's printed.

In medicine, I can tell you that advertisement in the journals goes on unabated, and unabashedly. However, everything that's written is submitted by independent doctors at the approval of PEER REVIEW. For instance, if you want to publish something saying Norvasc sucks as a blood pressure medicine, you've got to freakin' PROVE IT with real data, which is subject to the Editor(s) thinking it's interesting enough to print, and several randomly selected doctors in the specialty approving, critiquing, and actually submitting questions and possible suggestions to the author(s) before publication. Granted, some stuff gets through and still SUCKS, but then there's the editorial section, where authors must reply to critiques of their paper and everything that's written is always subject to public scrutiny in a real way---been there, done that...on BOTH ends of the deal.

Of course, this would never work when you're dealing with simple fluff, but some degree of accountability would be nice. I, for one, wouldn't mind seeing some serious tech sections with controlled results, subject to the scrutiny of specialists writing in response. The fluff could be labeled fluff, and the good stuff...the good stuff.


Posted by: d.u.g.---------------------

Well put,Doc!
I'm in medicine too,and you are 100% right.I work as a nurse on a trauma floor,s yeah,I get opinionated about SX obstacles for amateurs,no helmets on street bikers,etc.
I do not subscribe too MXA.I will buy it for the ads,and pictures of new stuff.We as dirt -bikers should voice our opinions on stuff in printconcerning our sport.
I took some heat on Mcgraths obviously desperate attempt to stay famous,then MXA devoting several pages to a "celebrity" car race.I didn't like the wasted space,and excruciatingly posed
photos with Mrs.Silicone,I mean Mcgrath.
So,I get responses like"If you can beat him,bash him".criticizing SX obstacles I get stuff like'Just don't ride on them".These must be the result of previous,undiagnosed,closed head injuries. Doug


Posted by: markthomps---------------------

I've already expended my two pesos' worth (buys less than 2 cents) on MXA some pages earlier. As an editor, which is my long-time profession since I'm totally unsuited for anything else, publishing is first and foremost a business, period. Editors who lose sight of that simple fact, get a new title: Unemployed. Being an editor (we're talking real journalists here, not MXA's or many other moto-mags' name-droppers and industry hanger-ons) is a nonstop balancing act between ethics, staying in business, determining the truth when damn few things are black and white, being entertaining and being useful to your readers. Some editors and their mags are good at it; others never will be and don't even aspire to be anything other than what they are. Unfortunately, too many of the moto-mag staffers are in it for the ego gratification and the chance to be part of The Industry. That means the readers aren't considered that important in the overall scheme of things. MXA exactly demonstrates this.


Posted by: nephron---------------------

Quote:
That means the readers aren't considered that important in the overall scheme of things.


That's possibly the best 1 sentence summary of all things MXA right there...and I hadn't ever considered it before. Absolutely perfect--they not only AVOID catering to the scrutinizing reader, they absolutely insult them by their totally obvious disregard for them. Kind of like an irritating commercial--they don't give a damn if they piss you off or insult you...so long as you are temporarily distracted by it...that's their goal. That's how it works. It's so loud--you pick it up, it's kind of horrifying and grotesque, like a sideshow; and likewise keeps you looking at it, even under circumstances of unease or discomfort....... :confused:


Posted by: CR Swade---------------------

You guys & gals in medicine...my hats off to you. Seriously, what you all do is immeasurable in terms of helping humanity. But I hate to break it you, this ain't medicine.

A rather memorable movie line said "Never print more than the average person can read during the average crap". Hate to let everybody in on this, but mags and newspapers of all flavors figured this out long, long ago. Notice the prevailing sentiment here? Most everybody buys these things for the products, ads and reviews. Most forms of specialized motorized sport has some of the most esoteric-minded participants around. Think not? How many of you mod the hell out of a bike for no good reason other than to do it. How about new gear whenever a hot color change happens. Or how about the must have graphics? Oh yeah, the bike needed that. I'm guilty of all three at one time or another. Guess where I saw all of that debris? Most, probably
wouldn't admit to this, but most of us do it to some extent. The publishing companies make way more money writing to the LCD than having an idealistic publication too lofty for most of the masses, plus they know that most of us WILL buy the crap they advertise.

Personally, I don't mind the fluff-I know what to expect from most published print with regards to product. My profession too deals with concern for life-if I botch a repair or install, threat of peril is very great. I don't mind "looking at the pretty pictures" for some relaxation. When I want info I seek out other sources.

BTW, exactly how many axes have been grinding on these two MXA/mag threads. It's just not that important...


Posted by: Rich Rohrich---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by CR Swade
Or here is a notion...everybody that can do better collectively put together a rag. Call it "MX Mag That Doesn't Suck...No Really, Our Magazine Is Much Better" :confused:


We have it's called dirtrider.net :thumb:


Posted by: CR Swade---------------------

Well, believe it or not I'd have to agree with that. Now where are all of those pretty pictures...


Posted by: Rich Rohrich---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by CR Swade
Now where are all of those pretty pictures...


http://dirtrider.net/teamdrn/index.php


Posted by: jmics19067---------------------

well I am still waiting for the belly button piercing




.......oops wrong thread


Posted by: toalco-kdx---------------------

u guys have finally opened my eyes to the crap thats in these magazines. have any of u taken a look at the latest dirtrider? "How to look like a factory racer" is featured in that issue. Heres part of the article...

"Key Points- Most factory riders have the following:
-Gray or black grips with safety wire
-Renthal or Answer bars
-Works Connection or DSP frame guards
-Suspension setting stickers on forks
-Hole shot device
-White boots"
...the list goes on


What a pointless article!!?? It just tells you what you need to look good and who to get it from. Now there advertising in there articles.


That is for guys who just sit beside the track thinking they look cool then once they finally get on the trck they get there assed kicked by a guy in ripped jeans with a muscle shirt riding a 1980 XL250.

these magazines are becoming a joke. i think ive seen about 3 articles about Ty Davis and his bike in the last 3 months.


Posted by: markthomps---------------------

Toalco: This is why there's been a renewal notice on my desk for DR for the past 6 months. They're getting a bit more frantic in their desire to get me to renew and I actually think DR is the best of the moto-mags out there, which isn't saying a helluva lot. Unfortunately, they've gone from doing mostly decent tech and test stories and skill techniques to trying to be RacerX with too many fluff pieces. Anyone got $10 million lying around? I need financial backing for a real dirt bike magazine . . .


Posted by: VintageDirt---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by markthomps
Anyone got $10 million lying around? I need financial backing for a real dirt bike magazine . . .
Where do I send the check? :confused:


Posted by: Rich Rohrich---------------------

VD has that much in the cushions of his couch


Posted by: VintageDirt---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by Rich Rohrich
VD has that much in the cushions of his couch
I ain't even got a couch! :whiner:


Posted by: Rich Rohrich---------------------

Me either. I beat mine to death with a claw hammer one rainy fall day last year.


Posted by: VintageDirt---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by Rich Rohrich
Me either. I beat mine to death with a claw hammer one rainy fall day last year.
What'd it do ta piss you off? Or was a copy of MXA stuck inside?


Posted by: jmics19067---------------------

I thought Rich was talking about a subscription form for MXA


Posted by: Rich Rohrich---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by VintageDirt
What'd it do ta piss you off? Or was a copy of MXA stuck inside?


Someone sat on it while reading MXA, so I had no choice.

I have to admit it did look pretty suspicious when I hauled all the couch carcass bits to the trash in big Hefty bags.


Posted by: BSWIFT---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by Rich Rohrich


Someone sat on it while reading MXA, so I had no choice.

I have to admit it did look pretty suspicious when I hauled all the couch carcass bits to the trash in big Hefty bags.


I'm shocked you didn't get Okie to bury it under his house!&nbsp; He's problably got the dirt pretty well broken up from disposing of unsuitable boyfriends of his daughter.


Posted by: Okiewan---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by BSWIFT


I'm shocked you didn't get Okie to bury it under his house!&nbsp; He's problably got the dirt pretty well broken up from disposing of unsuitable boyfriends of his daughter.


LOL Brian... but you see, space is at a premium.
There have been many.


Posted by: Rich Rohrich---------------------

Quote:
Originally posted by Okiewan


LOL Brian... but you see, space is at a premium.
There have been many.


... and I hate waiting in line.


Posted by: VintageDirt---------------------

I found a dead horse that could use a good whuppin'.

And by the way, I've been enjoying MXA very much lately. I think me and Jody could be best buddies now if he would just answer my email. I like the nostalgic articles and even the twist on the sound debate(as in db) in the Aug 2006 issue was an interesting twist.


Posted by: Rich Rohrich---------------------

Quote:
Originally Posted by VintageDirt
I think me and Jody could be best buddies now .


I'm ashamed to say I know you Wes.


Posted by: TwinSpar---------------------

Damn! I thought this thread... as well as a few other recent revivals were property of Elmers!


Posted by: cavy986---------------------

I happen to like MXA (and Bob Hannah for that matter)for their honesty and not being afraid to tell the truth even if some of the public can't handle it


Posted by: Rich Rohrich---------------------

Quote:
Originally Posted by cavy986
I happen to like MXA (and Bob Hannah for that matter)for their honesty and not being afraid to tell the truth even if some of the public can't handle it


MXA wouldn't recognize the TRUTH if it walked up to them in the pits and kicked them in the nuts. GET A CLUE.



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