Page 94 - ISSUE41

DYLAN MERRIAM
250 SX / 15TH
IMAGE / LANNAN WORDS / MATTINGLY DESIGN / WILSON
>> There are two trains of thought from the riders once the series hits the east coast. On one end of the spectrum, many are stoked for terrain that can grip, and allow the pilot to maneuver the machine wherever they may choose throughout the circuit. On the other hand, some (often West Coast natives) shy away from the technicality the ruts bring to these ever so challenging Supercross tracks, wishing that each week would provide a tad simpler soil composition, and resemble their upbringing. Well boys, unfortunately Indianapolis is one of the most treacherous tracks on the circuit, and from the time the first laps were set, everyone in attendance knew that the races were going to be extra challenging on the field. Dylan Merriam appeared to be very confident from the get go, his times rising with the track becoming more difficult with each passing lap. The balls of his feet were always in contact with the footpegs, walk- ing the tightrope with precise shock absorbers, his plantar flexors at times burning. He would push heavily throughout the day until nightfall; the result? A transfer position and ticket to the main event. He was ready, and once the gate fell, he knew what was in store; and although he was a recipient of the cluster that ensued on the green flag lap, he knew he had to move forward at all costs. Building a set of goals throughout the series, and now conquering his aspirations of making main events consistently, he was shooting for the top 15. The task would be tough but his pace was just on the cusp, with riders such as Dakota Alix, Henry Miller, and other familiar foes just ahead of him. His tall stature allowed for a quick sequence of acceleration in the rollers past the finish line; a sudden wheel tap of one, two, three, and a bunny hop, would have him rocking and rolling into the next right hander; all the while grabbing gears and a handful of throttle. All the while, having Jesse Wentland, a fierce privateer, breathing down his neck. The blitz never fazed him, as he would slowly look out the peripheral vision of his goggles when launching the triple; just to make sure he knew was there. He would remain forward thinking, and by the end, you guessed it, accomplishing another piece of memo on his clipboard. An awesome ride for 15th, he only looks to go up from here as the series continues.
94 GRITMOTO • MARCH 19, 2017