Germany ISDE 2012
While sitting in the backseat of a rental car in Mexico in November 2010, a conversation ensued between my son Josh (then 15) and friend Cory Pincock and his wife. Cory was participating in his first ever ISDE (International Six Days Enduro) in Mexico that year. Josh and I were there as a support crew to him and assisting two other Utah riders, Shawn Strong and Jake Vainio. This was the closest we thought we would ever come to participating in the ISDE, so we were there soaking up the entire experience.
While sitting in the backseat of a rental car in Mexico in November 2010, a conversation ensued between my son Josh (then 15) and friend Cory Pincock and his wife. Cory was participating in his first ever ISDE (International Six Days Enduro) in Mexico that year. Josh and I were there as a support crew to him and assisting two other Utah riders, Shawn Strong and Jake Vainio. This was the closest we thought we would ever come to participating in the ISDE, so we were there soaking up the entire experience.
The conversation turned to where the ISDE was going to be held the next few years. 2011 was Finland and it was known that 2012 would be in Germany. The challenge was casually thrown out to Josh that he should try and qualify and we could all go to Germany together in 2012. He would just barely be of age to go. It was said partially in jest, but Josh internalized that thought more than any of us ever knew.
Fast forward a year and a half and we find ourselves preparing for the Germany ISDE 2012, after Josh had a very successful qualification at the Idaho City Qualifier two weeks ago, winning the E1 class for the weekend.
Fast forward a year and a half and we find ourselves preparing for the Germany ISDE 2012, after Josh had a very successful qualification at the Idaho City Qualifier two weeks ago, winning the E1 class for the weekend.
During our time in Mexico at the 2010 ISDE, I began an online blog that I posted on multiple riding forums on the Internet. The response was overwhelming. I received feedback from readers all over the world about how much they enjoyed the “first-timer” perspective and insight on this international event. For many ISDE veterans our perspective may have been considered naïve, but that’s exactly what it was, an account of our experiences as a support crew in our first ever ISDE without any bias, or pre-conceived notions of what we would, or would not experience.
This time around, we are coming at it from another new perspective, that of racer, participant, mechanic, financier, dad, mom, sibling, and fellow friends and family trying to support a 16 year old in fulfilling his dream of competing on the International stage. Our intent this time is to provide a similar documentary and if you are interested in following “the kid next door” kind of story, then I hope you find this interesting.
To put everything into context, it is first important to understand how Josh became so interested in the ISDE. It all started with my friend Jeff Good. We were co-workers and one day while sitting his office, he showed me a picture of him competing at the Idaho City qualifier. I didn’t know where Idaho City was, and I had no idea what the ISDE was all about.
A few months later, I found myself on the starting line of the 2002 Idaho City Qualifier. I was riding in the C class without a clue what I was doing. I took my Dad with me, and Josh who was 6 at the time.
My first sound test ever (notice Josh to my left in the picture getting his first indoctrination on the 96db sound limit).
This time around, we are coming at it from another new perspective, that of racer, participant, mechanic, financier, dad, mom, sibling, and fellow friends and family trying to support a 16 year old in fulfilling his dream of competing on the International stage. Our intent this time is to provide a similar documentary and if you are interested in following “the kid next door” kind of story, then I hope you find this interesting.
To put everything into context, it is first important to understand how Josh became so interested in the ISDE. It all started with my friend Jeff Good. We were co-workers and one day while sitting his office, he showed me a picture of him competing at the Idaho City qualifier. I didn’t know where Idaho City was, and I had no idea what the ISDE was all about.
A few months later, I found myself on the starting line of the 2002 Idaho City Qualifier. I was riding in the C class without a clue what I was doing. I took my Dad with me, and Josh who was 6 at the time.
My first sound test ever (notice Josh to my left in the picture getting his first indoctrination on the 96db sound limit).
I had never seen such a thing as a bike impound (That is Josh standing by the impound).
Me on the line for the first time ever and Josh standing there cheering me on.
I finished the race (notice how excited Josh is, holding my helmet) and was hooked. From that year forward, I participated in Idaho City every single year but one. Josh came with me, and eventually my other boys, every single year. It ranked up there with Christmas on my annual schedule.
The next year in 2003, I was a lot more prepared. Me and my friend Jeff Good that started all of this for me.
I finished that year as well, and it got in my blood even more. There is nothing like Idaho City.
Once again, Josh was with me, this time 7 years old, doing what 7 year old boys do (play in the dirt).
Not only did I love this unique event every year, but I started to become more enamored with the ISDE, it’s rich history, unique race format, and the challenge of competing. Inevitably, that same interest trickled down to my oldest son. I never pursued trying to qualify. At the time and phase of life I was in with a young family, it seemed like a pipe dream. But that didn’t change how much I enjoyed this event. It was an annual event.
One of my favorite pictures of all time was this one from 2007. I had all 3 of my boys (Josh, Kobee, and Benji) with me, and a good friend Jason and his son. My friend Jason and I raced, while our young boys roamed the boundaries of Idaho City all day on their bikes (where were their mothers? ;). They had a $20 bill in their pocket which was enough to buy a day’s supply of ice cream cones, along with a backpack full of water bottles and snacks, and their bicycles. What else does a pack of young boys need.
At the end of the day they were there to greet me with enough dirt on their faces to make a dad proud.
One of my favorite pictures of all time was this one from 2007. I had all 3 of my boys (Josh, Kobee, and Benji) with me, and a good friend Jason and his son. My friend Jason and I raced, while our young boys roamed the boundaries of Idaho City all day on their bikes (where were their mothers? ;). They had a $20 bill in their pocket which was enough to buy a day’s supply of ice cream cones, along with a backpack full of water bottles and snacks, and their bicycles. What else does a pack of young boys need.
At the end of the day they were there to greet me with enough dirt on their faces to make a dad proud.
Every year I would kind of gauge the course and try to assess when I would someday be able to race with Josh. His first attempt would come in 2009 at the age of 13. (I can’t wait to ride it with my other two boys someday).
Me and Josh (on KTM’s) and friend Jarrod on the start line in 2009.
This year turned out to be hot and dusty and we chalked it up to a learning year. He made it 40 miles on his KTM 105XC before the heat and dust got the best of him.
In 2010, we made another assault on the course. This time he was 14 and on a KTM 200. Conditions were exactly opposite of the year before. It poured rain the day before and the course was one eternal mud rut, but we were excited to give it a try.
In 2010, we made another assault on the course. This time he was 14 and on a KTM 200. Conditions were exactly opposite of the year before. It poured rain the day before and the course was one eternal mud rut, but we were excited to give it a try.
Josh entering the grass track in 2010.
With Dad right behind.
2010 was a tough year with a huge DNF rate. We made progress though from the year before. His shock seal blew at about mile 40 and he rode on a spring only for the next 70 miles. We hour’ed out in the last transfer section before town, but he had ridden the entire 120 miles.
2011 rolled around. Josh was getting bigger, stronger, and faster. 2 weeks before Idaho City, he washed out in a corner while training at our local MX track and broke his wrist. So, I rode his KX250F and loaned my KTM300 to my brother and we enjoyed an incredible year of great conditions.
2011 rolled around. Josh was getting bigger, stronger, and faster. 2 weeks before Idaho City, he washed out in a corner while training at our local MX track and broke his wrist. So, I rode his KX250F and loaned my KTM300 to my brother and we enjoyed an incredible year of great conditions.
Another year passed. Josh had now been to the 2010 ISDE in Mexico as a support crew. He had the support and encouragement of fellow Utah competitors who had been to the ISDE before including Greg Gillian, Jake (Jarkko) Vainio, Cory Pincock, Shawn Strong, and Bert Bradford. He was demonstrating the potential and skill to someday fulfill his dream so he decided to sign up in the LOI (Letter of Intent) class to see what he needed to do to compete at that level. Idaho City was one of only 2 qualifiers in the nation, the other being Ohio the following weekend.
At signup he discovered he was on minute 1 and the first rider on the course. This actually proved to be a real benefit in the end.
At signup he discovered he was on minute 1 and the first rider on the course. This actually proved to be a real benefit in the end.
Josh’s wonderful support crew (Mom, Brothers, and Sister).
Brother and Sister cheering Josh at the grass track.
At the end of Day 1, we discovered much to our surprise that Josh was leading the E1 class. He had a mechanical issue the last 30 miles that really hurt his special test scores so he came in thinking he had really tanked the day. With some help of some great friends, we were able to diagnose the problem and borrow a part from his practice bike (his Throttle Position Sensor had gone bad). This was actually all good experience as he rehearsed what he needed to do to get his bike fixed during his 10 minute impound period the next morning.
Day 2, he remained consistent and smooth, with no major mistakes in the special tests and retained the top spot in the E1 class.
Here he is heading out on the last 30 miles, with visions of Germany starting to become a little more into focus for him.
He finished the day strong, taking the E1 win for the weekend and was on his way to receiving an invitation to participate as a member of the U.S. team in Germany.
Josh is excited beyond belief. As a family, we are 100% behind him and there have been so many people who have let us know of their excitement and support as well.
My intent is to share our experience from now through the duration of the ISDE which will be held in Saxony Germany the last week of September, 2012.
Our life has been a complete whirlwind for the past 2 weeks since we left Idaho City. Everything is moving quickly, but I am committed to sharing the experience with others who may enjoy experiencing the ISDE vicariously.
Josh is excited beyond belief. As a family, we are 100% behind him and there have been so many people who have let us know of their excitement and support as well.
My intent is to share our experience from now through the duration of the ISDE which will be held in Saxony Germany the last week of September, 2012.
Our life has been a complete whirlwind for the past 2 weeks since we left Idaho City. Everything is moving quickly, but I am committed to sharing the experience with others who may enjoy experiencing the ISDE vicariously.
The Wednesday after the Idaho City qualifier, Josh received the official call from the AMA. They congratulated him on his results and extended the invitation to participate on the U.S. Team in Germany.
It was kind of surreal to think that he had actually made it, but now we knew our work was just beginning.
One of the first and foremost questions we had to address, was “What bike does he ride?”, and “Do we ship a bike or rent a bike”?
He really loves his KX250F. He rode a 2011 last year and then I sold my KTM300 to help fund the purchase of a new 2012 250F this year. We knew it would take some work to get that bike ready, but we hit a showstopper when we determined that we could not get an aftermarket ignition to power the lights and taillight that are required at the ISDE. I spoke to many people and hit a dead-end each time. I even reached out to Destry Abbott and to his credit, he gave me some leads on some factory folks who may be able to help, but it was too little too late.
We had to make a decision knowing that the clock was ticking. If we were to ship a bike, our deadline is basically the end of July, to have it to the AMA in Ohio in time to then be on a ship across the Atlantic en-route to Germany.
We spoke to our local KTM dealer, ADS Motorsports. We have had a good relationship with them for a few years now and after much discussion, we concluded that purchasing a 2012 KTM 250 XCF-W would be our best route.
This is essentially the same bike that KTM will be renting at the ISDE (a homologated 2013 Six Days edition of the 250 EXCF). We liked the peace of mind that there would be KTM support onsite, but we wanted to buy and prep a bike here that Josh can be intimately familiar with.
A week ago Friday, Josh test rode the 2012 KTM. Brayden and Steph at ADS have been a huge help.
It was kind of surreal to think that he had actually made it, but now we knew our work was just beginning.
One of the first and foremost questions we had to address, was “What bike does he ride?”, and “Do we ship a bike or rent a bike”?
He really loves his KX250F. He rode a 2011 last year and then I sold my KTM300 to help fund the purchase of a new 2012 250F this year. We knew it would take some work to get that bike ready, but we hit a showstopper when we determined that we could not get an aftermarket ignition to power the lights and taillight that are required at the ISDE. I spoke to many people and hit a dead-end each time. I even reached out to Destry Abbott and to his credit, he gave me some leads on some factory folks who may be able to help, but it was too little too late.
We had to make a decision knowing that the clock was ticking. If we were to ship a bike, our deadline is basically the end of July, to have it to the AMA in Ohio in time to then be on a ship across the Atlantic en-route to Germany.
We spoke to our local KTM dealer, ADS Motorsports. We have had a good relationship with them for a few years now and after much discussion, we concluded that purchasing a 2012 KTM 250 XCF-W would be our best route.
This is essentially the same bike that KTM will be renting at the ISDE (a homologated 2013 Six Days edition of the 250 EXCF). We liked the peace of mind that there would be KTM support onsite, but we wanted to buy and prep a bike here that Josh can be intimately familiar with.
A week ago Friday, Josh test rode the 2012 KTM. Brayden and Steph at ADS have been a huge help.
He was immediately comfortable and felt like it would be a great bike to ride. Of course he noticed that the power delivery was much smoother and more linear. He loved the e-start (and backup kickstart) and the ergonomics of the bike. It doesn’t “feel” quite as fast, but still puts power to the ground and considering the anticipated conditions of Germany (mud, slippery roots, and rocks) we felt this to be the ideal bike and the most ISDE ready off the showroom floor. It has the 6 speed tranny to help with the road transfer sections, headlight/taillight, fuel injection, new frame, odometer, 18” wheel, kickstand, clear tank, hydraulic clutch, and other off-road essentials.
At the ISDE, it’s all about preserving bike and body for 6 days. The best analogy I ever heard is that doing the Six Days is like going out and competing in a National Hare n’ Hound, but stopping once every hour for a 10 minute moto sprint in the middle, then getting up and doing it all over again the next day for 6 straight days.
For non-moto types, a good analogy is that it is like running a marathon for 6 straight days, but stopping 6-9 times in the middle of the marathon each day to do a 400 yard sprint.
Energy conservation and riding smooth are critical and this bike lends itself well to all of that.
We don’t have the bike in hand yet, but anticipate getting it in the next day or two.
With that decision made, we’ve now gone to work on lining up all the extra goodies that we need to put on the bike. Once everything arrives and Josh tears into the bike, we’ll document that, but at a high-level, here are the things we are planning:
Training and physical preparation is another huge variable. Josh has maintained his riding and racing schedule and doing other cross-training activities. The week following Idaho City he participated in a local Endurocross race and had a good showing in the Pro Class. He even brought home a little bit of cash in his pocket that will help make a small dent in the overall expense of getting to Germany.
At the ISDE, it’s all about preserving bike and body for 6 days. The best analogy I ever heard is that doing the Six Days is like going out and competing in a National Hare n’ Hound, but stopping once every hour for a 10 minute moto sprint in the middle, then getting up and doing it all over again the next day for 6 straight days.
For non-moto types, a good analogy is that it is like running a marathon for 6 straight days, but stopping 6-9 times in the middle of the marathon each day to do a 400 yard sprint.
Energy conservation and riding smooth are critical and this bike lends itself well to all of that.
We don’t have the bike in hand yet, but anticipate getting it in the next day or two.
With that decision made, we’ve now gone to work on lining up all the extra goodies that we need to put on the bike. Once everything arrives and Josh tears into the bike, we’ll document that, but at a high-level, here are the things we are planning:
- Rekluse Core EXP clutch and billet clutch basket
- Sun Line V1 breakaway levers.
- Full wraparound handguards
- Suspension revalve
- Radiator Guards (interested in opinions on what works well for this bike)
- Fuel Filter fix
- Dirt Tricks hardened sprockets and Regina Z chain.
- Dirt Tricks solid rear rotor and hardened front rotor
- Axle Blocks – the type that don’t fall out
- Axle Quick pulls
- Shark Fin
- Ricochet Skid Plate
Training and physical preparation is another huge variable. Josh has maintained his riding and racing schedule and doing other cross-training activities. The week following Idaho City he participated in a local Endurocross race and had a good showing in the Pro Class. He even brought home a little bit of cash in his pocket that will help make a small dent in the overall expense of getting to Germany.
Last weekend he did another local race as part of our desert racing series. It was more of a Grand Prix/Hare Scrambles type race. He had another respectable finish, but had a scare when he had a pretty good get-off on the first loop. He banged up his hip a bit and it was enough to take him for an X-ray last night out of paranoia that something was wrong. It revealed nothing so we’re hopeful it’s just a deep bruise.
Our friend Cory that participated in Mexico in the 2010 ISDE broke his hand while training about three weeks before the event. That is our nightmare, but we know you have to keep training and riding. It’s kind of like saying, “Here, go play with fire for the next 3 months but be careful not to burn yourself.”
It’s part of the calculated risk inherent in this sport and we hope to have some luck on our side.
Many people have asked how they may be of help or support. We appreciate all the offers but I want people to know first that we are interested in just sharing the story and experience. I also didn’t know if it is against protocol to post such things so if it is, I will gladly remove. Here is a summary of some things in the works, but more information will be coming:
As a little fyi, I may enjoy writing and sharing our story, but Josh enjoys video-editing and documenting his races. Here is a sample of some of his work. You can check out more on his YouTube channel, “TheKnightEdits”.
http://www.youtube.com/user/TheKNIGHTeDITS
Here are some of his favorites from this year’s racing season:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rPTqGgFRBdc
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ohYKALGKf_c&feature=relmfu
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uKLRmQ1HPtE&feature=fvwrel
It’s part of the calculated risk inherent in this sport and we hope to have some luck on our side.
Many people have asked how they may be of help or support. We appreciate all the offers but I want people to know first that we are interested in just sharing the story and experience. I also didn’t know if it is against protocol to post such things so if it is, I will gladly remove. Here is a summary of some things in the works, but more information will be coming:
- T-shirt sales – Local Hero MX has stepped up to be a huge supporter of Josh and we are finalizing a design with him as we speak and will post the T-shirt design soon. We are selling Adult Size T-shirts for $20 and Youth Sizes for $15. You can PM me if interested.
- Tugger Lift Straps – My good friend Burt Lamborn has also made a very generous offer and has agreed to donate proceeds of the sale of Tugger Lift Straps that are made specific for Josh, to his ISDE fund. Burt is working on a link on his website (http://www.thetugger.com/) and when it is ready I will let everyone know. I’m sure if you purchased one now and just made a comment upon purchase, that Burt would get it taken care of.
- Fund Raiser ride day at Ogden Cycle Association (www.ocamx.com) motocross facility (Ogden, Utah) – We’re in the final planning stages with OCA for a fund raiser on July 21-22. This will be an Open Practice to the public. $20 will get you in the gate and you can ride the famous OCA dirt all you want. In addition to open practice we’re planning a variety of other fun activities including the following:
- Enduro style Special Tests
- Timed laps on the main MX track
- Time laps on the Vet track
- ISDE style Grass track
- ISDE style turn track
- Small Endurocross course
- Here’s a sneak peak of the MX track:
- Enduro style Special Tests
- All these will be treated as special tests with timed results and prizes given out to the winners in different classes. In the latter half of the day, the plan is to string all the tests together into one big GP-style course.
- We will have food, prizes, and sno-cones all day long to help offset the heat in the middle of July.
- T-shirt sales onsite.
- An official flyer should be published with the details by the end of this week.
- Pay Pal account – We have a Pay Pal account established. It is [email protected] This can be used to facilitate payment for T-shirts as well as other donations.
As a little fyi, I may enjoy writing and sharing our story, but Josh enjoys video-editing and documenting his races. Here is a sample of some of his work. You can check out more on his YouTube channel, “TheKnightEdits”.
http://www.youtube.com/user/TheKNIGHTeDITS
Here are some of his favorites from this year’s racing season:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rPTqGgFRBdc
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ohYKALGKf_c&feature=relmfu
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uKLRmQ1HPtE&feature=fvwrel
Well, we now have a little more orange in the garage. Picked up the bike (2012 KTM 250 XCFW) tonight.
The UPS guy has been dropping off goodies at our house each day and we’ve got a lot of work to do. My dog doesn’t even bark at the UPS guy anymore because he comes so often.
Unfortunately, we also have a KX250F to rebuild at the same time so he has a reliable practice bike between now and then, so we’ll be busy, busy, busy, in the garage but we’ll be having a lot of quality father/son time.
The UPS guy has been dropping off goodies at our house each day and we’ve got a lot of work to do. My dog doesn’t even bark at the UPS guy anymore because he comes so often.
Unfortunately, we also have a KX250F to rebuild at the same time so he has a reliable practice bike between now and then, so we’ll be busy, busy, busy, in the garage but we’ll be having a lot of quality father/son time.
Josh also had an interesting experience yesterday. A good friend owns a local radio station and he called to see if Josh wanted to do an interview for their Sports show. Last week they interviewed Shane Watts. Shane’s wife is from the same town (Price, Utah) where the radio station is located, and then this week they interviewed Josh about his qualifying, planning, and preparation for the ISDE. It was really great to hear a radio station give air time to enduro in the same breath as the NBA Finals.
Here’s a link to the interview if anyone is interested in listening (titled “Ogden Rider, Josh Knight” under the Sports tab).
http://www.radiop1.com/mediacenter.aspx?stationid=56
or
Ogden Rider Josh Knight
Thanks for all the positive comments so far.
Here’s a link to the interview if anyone is interested in listening (titled “Ogden Rider, Josh Knight” under the Sports tab).
http://www.radiop1.com/mediacenter.aspx?stationid=56
or
Ogden Rider Josh Knight
Thanks for all the positive comments so far.
Josh rode the new bike last Friday at our local track and really loved it. It’s definitely setup soft for MX, but he rode it like it didn’t matter. He loved the ergonomics of the bike and said he could turn it even better and could really get up on the tank to rail the corners. He also practiced bib mousse tire changes for a few hours on Saturday with the help of multi-time ISDE participant and medalist Greg Gillian. The focus is on technique right now and dealing with the unexpected. The speed will come later.
When I last updated you, I mentioned that we had the new bike. Since that time, we’ve been busily making preparations for all the work we need to do on the new bike. As Murphy’s Law would have it, both of the KX 250F’s we own are down and out and are requiring a re-build.
Time is at a premium with all that is going on, but I need to get a good practice bike up and running for him. At the same time we need to be prepping the new bike and giving him a little ride time on the new bike without riding it too much and causing any damage or necessary repairs.
We had another Endurocross fairly local to us this past weekend that Josh raced last year and really wanted to race again this year. I conceded that he could ride the new bike.
It was a good opportunity to give it a real test in some tough conditions.
Time is at a premium with all that is going on, but I need to get a good practice bike up and running for him. At the same time we need to be prepping the new bike and giving him a little ride time on the new bike without riding it too much and causing any damage or necessary repairs.
We had another Endurocross fairly local to us this past weekend that Josh raced last year and really wanted to race again this year. I conceded that he could ride the new bike.
It was a good opportunity to give it a real test in some tough conditions.
David Pearson showed up to race and it was fun for Josh to be banging bars with one of his heroes. Back in 2007 when Josh was 11, he attended a local riding school for the day put on by David Pearson in support of local Utah rider Bert Bradford who was participating in the ISDE that year in Chile. Ever since that time, David has been someone that Josh has looked up to and enjoyed watching .
Here Josh is being hounded by David’s cousin Tuffy Pearson in the pro main event.
Josh was rockin the headlight just for fun.
After all was said and done, Josh had a respectable finish in the Pro main event (he was doing great until he cartwheeled through the matrix and rung his bell pretty good), and bike and body survived.
It was then on to a week of family “vacation”. With all that has been going on, I was looking forward to a week out our family’s cabin in Island Park Idaho for the 4th of July holiday. I planned to spend my days off working on bikes and trying to get caught up.
Today we made a makeshift work area outside and went to work on trying to get some of the work completed on the bike.
It was then on to a week of family “vacation”. With all that has been going on, I was looking forward to a week out our family’s cabin in Island Park Idaho for the 4th of July holiday. I planned to spend my days off working on bikes and trying to get caught up.
Today we made a makeshift work area outside and went to work on trying to get some of the work completed on the bike.
Most of what we planned to get on today (Dirt Trix sprockets and rotors, Regina Z-ring chain, GPR stabilizer and top triple clamp, Bulletproof designs radiator guards, shark fin, and chain guide, new axle blocks, Turn Tech 2.5A battery, along with several other goodies (we didn’t get it all done).
Nothing like taking a drill and tap to your new swingarm. However, this BulletProof designs chain guard and new T.M. chain guide bolted up nicely and should help in the rocks.
Nothing like taking a drill and tap to your new swingarm. However, this BulletProof designs chain guard and new T.M. chain guide bolted up nicely and should help in the rocks.
New Zinc coated and hardened Dirt Trix rotors front and rear and BulletProof Designs shark fin.
And Bulletproof Designs radiator guards.
Most everything went together nicely, but there is still a lot to do.
We borrowed a friend’s Trials bike for some fun and a little cross-training. We had to take a few breaks during our 4th of July work session to enjoy our surroundings. Josh and little brothers are digging the Trials bike. This is great cross-training.
We borrowed a friend’s Trials bike for some fun and a little cross-training. We had to take a few breaks during our 4th of July work session to enjoy our surroundings. Josh and little brothers are digging the Trials bike. This is great cross-training.
Josh is feeling comfortable with the bike. The biggest challenge at this time is just getting everything together in time before the end of the month comes to ship the bike. We are hosting a fund-raiser ride day at our local MX track in 2 ½ weeks and there is an incredible amount of work to be done in that time.
The shirts should be printed by next week and we’ll start to get them mailed to those who have expressed interest.
Thank you for all of the encouragement and kind words for Josh. Although much has been said about him, this has really been a family commitment and experience and I’m appreciative for how supportive they have been as well.
The shirts should be printed by next week and we’ll start to get them mailed to those who have expressed interest.
Thank you for all of the encouragement and kind words for Josh. Although much has been said about him, this has really been a family commitment and experience and I’m appreciative for how supportive they have been as well.
When we last left off, we had just finished up Josh’s fundraiser. It was an incredible amount of work but worth it in many ways. Many people were very generous, but even more important and exciting was seeing how many people enjoyed the day and just came out to support Josh in whatever way they could.
Immediately after the fundraiser, we had a previously scheduled four day backpacking trip in the Wind Rivers mountain range of Wyoming. This doesn’t really have anything to do with riding, but in a way it does. This whole ISDE planning and preparation has pretty much taken over our lives. Josh and I were both really looking forward to 4 days in some of the most beautiful country in the world doing something non-moto related. I had the opportunity to spend the time with all 3 of my sons and several of their friends. It was priceless.
This entire experience has been a family experience and it was nice to spend time with my other boys. We didn’t talk much ISDE, but it was a great workout for Josh, lugging a 40-50 pound pack around in the wilderness for four days.
Immediately after the fundraiser, we had a previously scheduled four day backpacking trip in the Wind Rivers mountain range of Wyoming. This doesn’t really have anything to do with riding, but in a way it does. This whole ISDE planning and preparation has pretty much taken over our lives. Josh and I were both really looking forward to 4 days in some of the most beautiful country in the world doing something non-moto related. I had the opportunity to spend the time with all 3 of my sons and several of their friends. It was priceless.
This entire experience has been a family experience and it was nice to spend time with my other boys. We didn’t talk much ISDE, but it was a great workout for Josh, lugging a 40-50 pound pack around in the wilderness for four days.
I've mentioned it before, but one of the unique things that has been brought to light through this entire ISDE prep and experience thus far, has been the "Pay it Forward" concept. People that I would have never have expected, have been very generous in either their time, support, well-wishes, or financial support. So many are people who are just interested in Josh's story, or love the idea of participating vicariously in some small way in the ISDE. To all of you, thank you. Josh has been overwhelmed at times seeing what people have done and how supportive they are.
Today we received a package in the mail, completely unsolicited. It was from the Larry Hamilton family in Montana. They had awarded Josh the "Gerrit Hamilton ISDE Memorial Award" in addition to a gift to help him in his journey to Germany.
Today we received a package in the mail, completely unsolicited. It was from the Larry Hamilton family in Montana. They had awarded Josh the "Gerrit Hamilton ISDE Memorial Award" in addition to a gift to help him in his journey to Germany.
Talk about making an impression on a kid that just turned 17 last week.
The Hamilton's host the Ought Six Enduro in Montana every April. They do this to support the sport, and raise funds and awareness for their support fund for aspiring young ISDE racers. Their son Gerrit was an aspiring ISDE racer who had his dreams cut short back in 2000 from a tragic auto/bicycle accident. Their other son William Hamilton has participated several times and they are truly an "ISDE family".
http://teammontanaisde.com/
After several friends kept telling us how awesome this event was, we made the drive this past April to Cascade Montana where Josh competed.
The Hamilton's host the Ought Six Enduro in Montana every April. They do this to support the sport, and raise funds and awareness for their support fund for aspiring young ISDE racers. Their son Gerrit was an aspiring ISDE racer who had his dreams cut short back in 2000 from a tragic auto/bicycle accident. Their other son William Hamilton has participated several times and they are truly an "ISDE family".
http://teammontanaisde.com/
After several friends kept telling us how awesome this event was, we made the drive this past April to Cascade Montana where Josh competed.
10 Days and counting before departure. It feels like yesterday we were driving home from Idaho City as a family on a natural high in anticipation of the possibility of heading to Germany.
With so much of the logistical preparations behind us now, the focus has been on providing Josh an opportunity to train, but most importantly remain healthy. He’s been doing a combination of running, weight lifting, mountain biking, trials riding, trail riding, desert, and moto. We had one little scare after a low-speed over the bars experience on a trail ride where we thought he had broken his thumb, but it proved to just be sprained and he’s been fine since then.
With so much of the logistical preparations behind us now, the focus has been on providing Josh an opportunity to train, but most importantly remain healthy. He’s been doing a combination of running, weight lifting, mountain biking, trials riding, trail riding, desert, and moto. We had one little scare after a low-speed over the bars experience on a trail ride where we thought he had broken his thumb, but it proved to just be sprained and he’s been fine since then.
ISDE 101
Most people following this thread have some knowledge of the ISDE, but we’ve got a lot of friends and family, or people who are avid motorcyclists and interested in this story, but don’t know much about the ISDE. Therefore, I wanted to provide sort of an “ISDE for Dummies” summary for those who may want a little more context of what is really involved. Here are some highlights:
• The ISDE is the longest running off-road motorcycling event in the world. It is considered the pinnacle of off-road enduro racing. This year in Germany will be the 87th running of the ISDE.
• ISDE stands for International Six Days Enduro. This is an International motorcycling event and is just like the Olympics. Multiple countries (30-40) are represented and at the end of the event, racers are awarded medals (Gold/Silver/Bronze) for their finish. There are usually over 450+ racers.
• Racers race for six straight days and in Germany they will average between 150-180 miles per day (some days even longer).
• Just finishing the ISDE (often referred to as “Six Days”), is a huge accomplishment. It is truly an endurance event and is a test for both the rider and the bike to finish 6 grueling days without one or the other failing.
• One of the very unique things is that once the event starts, only the rider can perform any maintenance on his/her bike. If anybody (even a spectator with good intentions) provides any type of outside assistance, the racer will be disqualified. Nobody else can even touch the bike. There are some very minor exceptions that include a pit crew being able to fill gas, and other liquids such as antifreeze, oil, or brake fluid. However, they can only pour those liquids. For example, a mechanic can pour in brake fluid, but they can’t assist in bleeding the brakes. They can pour in oil, but they can’t remove the filler cap or remove the drain plug. Those functions must be performed by the rider.
• The rider has a 15 minute work period at the end of each day of racing to perform maintenance on the bike. During this time, they change tires, oil, brake pads, air filters, etc. They have to impound their bike in a secure area each night before those 15 minutes expire. If they exceed those 15 minutes they incur a penalty against their overall score.
• Bikes remain locked and inaccessible to rider and pit crew until 10 minutes before the riders scheduled depart time each morning. The rider can perform any last minute bike maintenance during those 10 minutes but they cannot start their bike. The bike can’t be started until the rider’s start time arrives.
• The ISDE is a time trials event which means that although they are out there racing against everyone else, they are really racing the clock. They leave at a specific time each day. They have a prescribed amount of time to arrive at their next location (called a “Time Check”). If they arrive early, they wait until their arrival time is up, and then they go through the Time Check. If they arrive late, then they are penalized (60 points for every minute they are late). If the rider leaves and arrives to each time check on time, then their score is essentially “zero” (which is what you want). It takes a great deal of skill to ride the necessary pace between the checkpoints and avoid arriving late. It’s not a trail ride. For the average rider, the pace between checks would be equivalent to their full race pace.
• Between the time check points are what is known as “Special Tests”. This is the real magic of the ISDE. These are sections of the course that are in different type of terrain. They could be a grass track on the side of a hill, a natural terrain motocross track, a sandy beach, or a slippery and root-infested trail through the trees.
• The objective of the Special Test is to ride as fast as possible from the Start to the Finish, just like a sprint. The rider receives a score for the amount of time it takes them to complete the special test. The score is represented as a number (i.e. 360) which is indicative of the total number of seconds it takes them to complete the test (a score of 360 would be 6 minutes). The lower the score the better (lower score equals faster time).
The rider usually competes in about 6-8 special tests each day. Their cumulative special test scores, combined with any other penalty points (for arriving late to a time check), result in an overall score for the day.
The goal of the racer is to “zero their checks” (arrive to each on time), and ride as fast as possible in the special tests and receive the lowest score for the day.
• One of the best analogies is to think of running a marathon every day for 6 straight days, but in the middle of that marathon, being stopped 6-8 times, and required to run a 400-800 yard sprint, and then resume running your marathon.
• If a rider arrives late to a time check, they incur a penalty (points added to their score) for every minute they are late. A rider cannot makeup time, so their time schedule resets. For example, if a rider was to be at Time Check 2 at 10:10 a.m. and they arrived at 10:20 they are 10 minutes late. If they were then originally scheduled to be at Time Check 3 at 11:40 a.m., they would need to adjust their schedule forward and plan to arrive at Time Check 3 at 11:50 a.m.
• The combined cumulative total of “minutes late” cannot exceed 60 minutes. If they do, the rider is out of competition. This is known as “hour’ing out”.
• The main division of riders is broken up by displacement (engine size). Classes are:
o 100cc-125cc 2 stroke or 175cc-250cc 4 stroke (also known as E1 or C1)
o 175cc-250cc 2 stroke or 290cc-450cc 4stroke (also known as E2 or C2)
o 290cc-500cc 2 stroke or 475cc-650cc 4 stroke (also known as E3 or C3)
o There is also a Senior Team (any size machine) and Women’s Team (any size machine)
• Bigger motor doesn’t necessarily equate to better rider or faster rider. Last year’s overall winner was in the E1 class. The Trophy Team has the world’s fastest riders represented in all the classes.
• The U.S. team has 31 riders this year. All 31 riders are official U.S. Team Members. There are 6 of those riders that make up the World Trophy Team. There are 4 of the riders that are part of the Junior Trophy Team (riders under the age of 23). There are 3 women that make up the Women’s Trophy Team. The rest of the riders are organized in groups of 3 and are part of what is known as the club teams representing the U.S. All riders compete for both individual and team honors.
• Qualifying to be a member of the U.S. ISDE team requires riders to participate in at least one regional qualifier (there are usually only 2, sometimes 3 qualifiers each year) and finish in the top 2 of their respective class.
• Because the ISDE is an International event, the expenses involved in getting bike and rider to the event are considerable. The greatest majority of the cost of the event is the sole responsibility of the rider and/or their individual sponsors. Despite the considerable expense, competing in the ISDE is a “labor of love” for many, and a fulfillment of a life-long dream.
• There are many unique requirements for both bike and rider equipment. Special tires, exhaust sound restrictions, functional lights, etc., are all part of an ISDE bike. Some parts of the bike are marked with special paint during initial inspection before the event starts and these parts (i.e. engine cases, wheel hubs), cannot be swapped out during the event. This contributes to the unique preparation and strategy of an event like this where both rider and bike must last for 6 straight days in some of the world’s toughest terrain.
Most people following this thread have some knowledge of the ISDE, but we’ve got a lot of friends and family, or people who are avid motorcyclists and interested in this story, but don’t know much about the ISDE. Therefore, I wanted to provide sort of an “ISDE for Dummies” summary for those who may want a little more context of what is really involved. Here are some highlights:
• The ISDE is the longest running off-road motorcycling event in the world. It is considered the pinnacle of off-road enduro racing. This year in Germany will be the 87th running of the ISDE.
• ISDE stands for International Six Days Enduro. This is an International motorcycling event and is just like the Olympics. Multiple countries (30-40) are represented and at the end of the event, racers are awarded medals (Gold/Silver/Bronze) for their finish. There are usually over 450+ racers.
• Racers race for six straight days and in Germany they will average between 150-180 miles per day (some days even longer).
• Just finishing the ISDE (often referred to as “Six Days”), is a huge accomplishment. It is truly an endurance event and is a test for both the rider and the bike to finish 6 grueling days without one or the other failing.
• One of the very unique things is that once the event starts, only the rider can perform any maintenance on his/her bike. If anybody (even a spectator with good intentions) provides any type of outside assistance, the racer will be disqualified. Nobody else can even touch the bike. There are some very minor exceptions that include a pit crew being able to fill gas, and other liquids such as antifreeze, oil, or brake fluid. However, they can only pour those liquids. For example, a mechanic can pour in brake fluid, but they can’t assist in bleeding the brakes. They can pour in oil, but they can’t remove the filler cap or remove the drain plug. Those functions must be performed by the rider.
• The rider has a 15 minute work period at the end of each day of racing to perform maintenance on the bike. During this time, they change tires, oil, brake pads, air filters, etc. They have to impound their bike in a secure area each night before those 15 minutes expire. If they exceed those 15 minutes they incur a penalty against their overall score.
• Bikes remain locked and inaccessible to rider and pit crew until 10 minutes before the riders scheduled depart time each morning. The rider can perform any last minute bike maintenance during those 10 minutes but they cannot start their bike. The bike can’t be started until the rider’s start time arrives.
• The ISDE is a time trials event which means that although they are out there racing against everyone else, they are really racing the clock. They leave at a specific time each day. They have a prescribed amount of time to arrive at their next location (called a “Time Check”). If they arrive early, they wait until their arrival time is up, and then they go through the Time Check. If they arrive late, then they are penalized (60 points for every minute they are late). If the rider leaves and arrives to each time check on time, then their score is essentially “zero” (which is what you want). It takes a great deal of skill to ride the necessary pace between the checkpoints and avoid arriving late. It’s not a trail ride. For the average rider, the pace between checks would be equivalent to their full race pace.
• Between the time check points are what is known as “Special Tests”. This is the real magic of the ISDE. These are sections of the course that are in different type of terrain. They could be a grass track on the side of a hill, a natural terrain motocross track, a sandy beach, or a slippery and root-infested trail through the trees.
• The objective of the Special Test is to ride as fast as possible from the Start to the Finish, just like a sprint. The rider receives a score for the amount of time it takes them to complete the special test. The score is represented as a number (i.e. 360) which is indicative of the total number of seconds it takes them to complete the test (a score of 360 would be 6 minutes). The lower the score the better (lower score equals faster time).
The rider usually competes in about 6-8 special tests each day. Their cumulative special test scores, combined with any other penalty points (for arriving late to a time check), result in an overall score for the day.
The goal of the racer is to “zero their checks” (arrive to each on time), and ride as fast as possible in the special tests and receive the lowest score for the day.
• One of the best analogies is to think of running a marathon every day for 6 straight days, but in the middle of that marathon, being stopped 6-8 times, and required to run a 400-800 yard sprint, and then resume running your marathon.
• If a rider arrives late to a time check, they incur a penalty (points added to their score) for every minute they are late. A rider cannot makeup time, so their time schedule resets. For example, if a rider was to be at Time Check 2 at 10:10 a.m. and they arrived at 10:20 they are 10 minutes late. If they were then originally scheduled to be at Time Check 3 at 11:40 a.m., they would need to adjust their schedule forward and plan to arrive at Time Check 3 at 11:50 a.m.
• The combined cumulative total of “minutes late” cannot exceed 60 minutes. If they do, the rider is out of competition. This is known as “hour’ing out”.
• The main division of riders is broken up by displacement (engine size). Classes are:
o 100cc-125cc 2 stroke or 175cc-250cc 4 stroke (also known as E1 or C1)
o 175cc-250cc 2 stroke or 290cc-450cc 4stroke (also known as E2 or C2)
o 290cc-500cc 2 stroke or 475cc-650cc 4 stroke (also known as E3 or C3)
o There is also a Senior Team (any size machine) and Women’s Team (any size machine)
• Bigger motor doesn’t necessarily equate to better rider or faster rider. Last year’s overall winner was in the E1 class. The Trophy Team has the world’s fastest riders represented in all the classes.
• The U.S. team has 31 riders this year. All 31 riders are official U.S. Team Members. There are 6 of those riders that make up the World Trophy Team. There are 4 of the riders that are part of the Junior Trophy Team (riders under the age of 23). There are 3 women that make up the Women’s Trophy Team. The rest of the riders are organized in groups of 3 and are part of what is known as the club teams representing the U.S. All riders compete for both individual and team honors.
• Qualifying to be a member of the U.S. ISDE team requires riders to participate in at least one regional qualifier (there are usually only 2, sometimes 3 qualifiers each year) and finish in the top 2 of their respective class.
• Because the ISDE is an International event, the expenses involved in getting bike and rider to the event are considerable. The greatest majority of the cost of the event is the sole responsibility of the rider and/or their individual sponsors. Despite the considerable expense, competing in the ISDE is a “labor of love” for many, and a fulfillment of a life-long dream.
• There are many unique requirements for both bike and rider equipment. Special tires, exhaust sound restrictions, functional lights, etc., are all part of an ISDE bike. Some parts of the bike are marked with special paint during initial inspection before the event starts and these parts (i.e. engine cases, wheel hubs), cannot be swapped out during the event. This contributes to the unique preparation and strategy of an event like this where both rider and bike must last for 6 straight days in some of the world’s toughest terrain.
