Leatt 4.5 (2021) Boots
Overall Review
Last year Leatt released its first foray into the motocross footwear market with the 5.5 Boot Flexlock. At just under $400 it lands in the lower end of the premier-level boots. But, that is still not in your budget, for $299.99 you can get a very similar boot, the 4.5, and save some cash. With a First Ride, this is not a full test for durability and wear, just an initial impression on fit, feel, and function. On my handy dandy kitchen scale the pair weighs in at 7.8 lb which is on the lighter
Tokyo Mods ECU Remap
Vital Review
Tested: Tokyo Mods ECU Remap
The Good
Very simple to ship out and get back, a noticeable improvement across the RPM range, better throttle response and "connected" feeling, cheaper than aftermarket ECU
The Bad
Not adjustable by rider like Vortex ECU, if you chose a map for a specific type of riding and/or specific fuel and change it, you might need to remap again.
Overall Review
Most modern motocross engine tuners will tell you one of the simplest ways to get more out of your stock dirt bike is to get an aftermarket ECU. And while this is true and even easier than swapping out the pipe for some beautiful ti/carbon system, aftermarket ECUs are not cheap by any means. This is where Tokyo Mods comes in. For our 2021 Kawasaki KX450, we asked for an extra ECU so that we could have one remapped by Tokyo Mods and leave the other stock to ride them back to back on the same day
Tokyo Mods ECU Remap
Vital Rating:
Leatt X-Frame Hybrid Knee Brace
The Good
Slims down the front of the knee brace area, comfortable brace on the bike, no hot spots or pressure points.
The Bad
Not the thinnest or the lightest, knee sleeves mandatory so if you are used to full-length baselayer, might get hot on warm days.
Overall Review
Take a look at the latest knee protection from Leatt with a novel take on the knee brace. The X-Frame Hybrid Knee Brace is a two-part system, having a rigid brace frame and patella cup separate. This reduces the overall bulk of the brace and is actually really comfortable. But, don't forget the knee sleeves in the washing machine when you head to the track like I did.
Leatt X-Frame Hybrid Knee Brace
Vital Rating:
2021 GASGAS MC 250F
Overall Review
For 2021 GASGAS is jumping into the motocross game with a full lineup of bikes, including the MC 250F. Yes, it is clearly based on the KTM/Husqvarna 250 four-stroke motocross platform but there are a few differences aimed at giving the bike a little different ride character and a lower price point. Sharing its motor, frame, and overall layout with the orange and white bikes, the GASGAS MC 250F deviates with its own suspension settings that are designed to have a more "broad appeal." It also has
2021 GASGAS MC 450F
Overall Review
We know most comments about the 2021 GASGAS MC 450F will say, “It’s a red KTM!!!” Go ahead, get it out of your system. Good? Ok, now we can tell you that there are a handful of differences between the GASGAS motocross machines and the orange and white bikes that give the red MXer’s their own flavor. While the motor and frame are shared between all three brands, the GASGAS has its own suspension settings and a forged triple clamp. It also has a straight header (without a resonance chamber) and
2021 GASGAS MC 125
Overall Review
Before you start typing “It’s a red KTM!!!” take a breath, and read the next few sentences. Yes, the MC 125 is very similar to the KTM 125 SX, but there are some parts that are unique to the GASGAS that do give the bike it’s own flavor on the track, and are also aimed at saving you a few bucks at the dealership. The forged triple clamp and “mellower” suspension settings offer more comfort for the average motocross rider. Plus, the swing arm is from the Husqvarna, and the subframe is the aluminum
2021 Beta 300 RX
Overall Review
The the world of off-road, Beta has a long and successful track record with world titles in many enduro racing disciplines. But in motocross, they’ve never offered a specific moto machine for the track. Until now... The 2021 Beta 300 RX is their first moto bike and we get the pleasure of testing it for a couple months. This video is after our first day of riding and we were primarily just getting acquainted with all the different components on the machine. More to come so stay tuned.
2021 Yamaha YZ250F
Overall Review
Following the pattern of most OEMs over the last few years, Yamaha threw a ton of changes at their 450 machine and a year later, that new platform shows up in a 250 version. The short version is that the 2021 YZ250F got the same frame, triple clamps, brakes, as the YZ450F along with changes to the head, air box, air intake and exhaust. For the longer version checkout the First Look here. Check out what Ping thought after a day of riding at State Fair MX.
ProTaper SELA Holeshot Device
Vital Review
Tested: ProTaper SELA Holeshot Device
The Good
Universal for modern bikes, simple install, works just like it is supposed to.
The Bad
Small click when riding, the priciest option for holeshot devices.
Overall Review
If you are going to line up to race motocross, a holeshot device is mandatory. But traditional holeshot devices usually take two people with good timing to engage (unless you are Ken Roczen). Enter the ProTaper SELA (Self-Engaged Launch Assist) Holeshot Device that makes it a one-person job. Just turn the knob, compress the forks and you are good to go. Also, the SELA is compatible with most modern motocross bikes, since the fork ring is adjustable and there are different pin latches for
ProTaper SELA Holeshot Device
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Vital Rating:
2021 Kawasaki KX250X
Overall Review
Tester:Chris Siebenhaar Age:35 Height: 5’ 10” Weight: 178 lb Class: Intermediate/Expert This year the off-road (racer) category just got a little deeper with the addition of Kawasaki throwing its hat into both the 450cc, and 250cc cross country ring. Both bikes got the same off-road treatment, meaning softer suspension, a kickstand, skid plate, different final gearing, and 18” rear wheel and Dunlop AT81 tires. Other than that they’re basically the same as their motocross brethren. But is that