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C had Reed has been one of the most popular motorcycle racers worldwide since he began racing in the United States at the turn of the new millenium. The four-time AMA Champion has been considered a legend of the sport for many years, although he’s still lining up on the gate each and every weekend. He’s fourth all-time in premier class SX wins and the only non-retired racer contesting the 450 class that has a won a championship, let alone two. Reed spent the last two years with the Monster Energy Factory Yamaha team after owning and operating the Two Two Motorsports team for many seasons, thus returning to his roots as he won all three of his previous supercross championships on a blue bike. Despite a couple of podium finishes here and there, the Australian born rider failed to put himself on the top of the box throughout the past two years, and he was vocal throughout the 2017 season about his dissatisfaction with the YZF450. Reed is investing in
himself for the 2018 season as he’s chosen to show up at Anaheim 1 on a Husqvarna -- the first time that he’ll be racing a bike from a non- Japanese manufacturer. Fans around the world were going to get a look at the Australian legend at off-season events such as Red Bull Straight Rhythm and the AUS-X Open, but he injured his ankle during practice for Straight Rhythm and was forced to get surgery. Reed is starting off behind the eight ball in terms of prepping for Anaheim 1; his surgery has forced him off the bike during a crucial testing time, not to mention he’s planning on racing a bike that he’s never ridden. Nonetheless, Reed has the experience to make any situation work and there isn’t much that you can put in front of the thirty-five year old that he hasn’t seen before. Expect him to get better as the season goes on, allowing him time to race himself into shape and come to grips with the bike. If things go his way, he might bump himself up a couple of spots on the wins list.
CHAD REED |
THIS IS IT... THE
. WORK WILL BE
REMEMBER..
WORTH IT
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