On the evenings of June 1-3, 2020, AHRMA’s Board of Trustees met via video conference to review rules proposals for the 2021 racing season. A summary of the proposals, including the preliminary Board decisions, can be found below. Members are invited to provide feedback on each of the proposals, using the online AHRMA Rules Proposal Feedback Form, prior to the October 12 meeting when final voting will take place. Voting Trustees are: Kevin Burns, Luke Conner, Fred Guidi, Arthur Kowitz, Brian Larrabure, Albert Newmann, Debbie Poole, Rob Poole, Tim Terrell, Beno Rodi and Kelly Shane. Each Trustee’s initials are listed by his/her actions below.
The votes recorded below are votes for/against the proposed change; If “yes”, the preliminary vote is in favor of the proposal, if “no”, the preliminary vote is against the proposal. Underlined wording would be new for the 2021 Handbook, a strike-through indicates wording proposed to be removed.
Reminder: These are the preliminary Board decisions. Members are invited to review the votes on each of the proposals prior to the Fall meeting, and submit comments through the online AHRMA Rules Proposal Feedback form prior to the Fall Board meeting. Final determinations (votes) will be made at the October 12 meeting at the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum in Birmingham, AL.
Questions or comments on the rule proposals may only be submitted in the comment section at the end of this page. Deadline for the comment period is midnight Central time, September 15, 2020.
CROSS COUNTRY
15.1.1 VINTAGE
b) SPORTSMAN 200: Machines manufactured as 88-200cc; includes Sportsman 125 motocross machines, plus pre-1975 Bultaco 175/200, Husqvarna 175, Penton/KTM 175 and Puch 175. (Note: The Honda MR175 may run in Vintage 200 Class 50+ and older). Regardless of original displacement, engines may be built to the class limit (plus allowable overbore).
c) SPORTSMAN OPEN: Machines manufactured as 201cc and larger. Regardless of original displacement, engines may be built to the class limit (plus allowable overbore). (NOTE; The Honda MR250 may run in the Vintage Open Classes in 50+ and older) (Mark Zachary)
Committee Recommendation: No
Discussion: BL motioned to vote on the proposal, AN seconded
June Board: No (unanimous)
15.1.1 VINTAGE
d) CLASSIC: Includes all machines eligible for Classic and ESS classes in vintage MX (not further divided into engine-displacement classes; Classic 125 machines may compete in Sportsman 200). Sportsman Open Twins MX machines are eligible for this class (see rule 11.1.14). Regardless of original displacement, engines may be built to the class limit (plus allowable overbore). (Richard Colahan)
Committee Recommendation: No
Discussion: BL motioned to vote on the proposal, AN seconded
June Board: No (unanimous)
DIRT TRACK
14 MISSION STATEMENT
… The American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association has attempted to preserve the sights and sounds of this uniquely-American sport and display it to the public by providing a set of governing rules intended to capture each distinct period of dirt track racing (Class C, brakeless, vintage, and Seventies-era) and pit the motorcycles of that period against each other in fair competition and types of motorcycles which are historically under represented in modern dirt track racing. … (Arthur Kowitz)
Committee Recommendation: Yes
Discussion: RP motioned to vote on the proposal, KS seconded
June Board: Yes (unanimous)
14.2.6 SPORTSMAN 600
1974 and earlier machines manufactured as 251-600cc, including like-design models. Eligible machines include:
a) Honda XL350s with center-intake-port head are prohibited. (Tom Schuman)
Committee Recommendation: Yes
Discussion: BL motioned to vote on the proposal, AN seconded
June Board: Yes (9 yes/2 abstain)
14.2.18 SEVENTIES TWINS (currently 14.2.16 a) Support Class)
1970’s-style dirt track racers including Harley-Davidson XR750s and Ducati 860s. Twin-cylinder Sportsman 750 machines are eligible, as are other twins up to 850cc in capacity. Chassis: Similar to Seventies Singles: limited to twin-shock, circa-1980 chassis with maximum 38mm forks and WB4.5 rims. Wide dirt track tires may be used. Carburetor rules are the same as Seventies Singles; no “modern” flat-slides or pumper carbs.
Committee Recommendation: Yes
Discussion: RP motioned to vote on the proposal, KS seconded
June Board: Yes (unanimous)
14.2.19 SPANISH CUP (new class)
All air-cooled Spanish motorcycles (Bultaco, Montesa, Ossa) to 360cc. (Tom Schuman)
Committee Recommendation: Yes
Discussion: RP motioned to vote on the proposal, KS seconded
June Board: Yes (unanimous)
NEXT GEN MOTOCROSS
16 NUMBER PLATES
Number Plates: All Next Gen Class eligible machines shall use a white black background with black white numerals. (Allen Wenzel)
Committee Recommendation: No
Discussion: RP motioned to vote on the proposal, AN seconded
June Board: Yes – with “soft landing” for first few months of 2021 (9 yes / 2 no)
16.2.4 NEXT GEN 1 – FOUR STROKE
For those machines that are now specifically excluded from AHRMA’s Next Gen motocross program. (Allen Wenzel)
Committee Recommendation: Yes
Discussion: Tabled for committee to prepare text to be handbook-ready.
June Board: No vote
16.4.1 CURRENT 2 -STROKE
Current 2-Stroke included machines are those produced to the current era. Modern 2- strokes, including those currently in production by contemporary manufacturers and future models not yet in production, which maintain the modern structure. All modifications currently known are permitted, with the exception, of those which create an unsafe operating condition. (Allen Wenzel)
Committee Recommendation:Yes
Discussion: Tabled for committee to prepare text to be handbook-ready.
June Board: No vote
16.5.1 AGE CLASSES
a) 40+ Expert, Intermediate & Novice Any Bike of this Generation is eligible for this class
b) 50+ Expert, Intermediate & Novice Any Bike of this Generation is eligible for this class
c) 60+ Expert, Intermediate & Novice Any Bike of this Generation is eligible for this class
(Note: There is no novice classification in the Age Groups)
Committee Recommendation: No
Discussion: BL motioned to vote on the proposal, AN seconded
June Board: No (Unanimous)
16.6 GENERAL MOTOCROSS RULES
The following rules in the Vintage Motocross section also apply to AHRMA Next Gen MX:
11.3 Motocross Rider Grading System (Note: Rule 11.3h, dual-ability level, does not apply in Post Vintage classes.)
All AHRMA Next Gen motocross classes are further divided into Intermediate and Expert categories. Novice classes shall not be combined with any Intermediate or Expert class. All Novice classes shall run in Novice only motos. Dual ability level does not apply in Post Vintage classes.
Next Gen Novice Classes
a) Next Gen Novice 125-500;
b) Next Gen Novice Age 40+;
c) Next Gen Novice Age 60+;
d) Net Gen Women’s Novice
(Kelly Shane)
Committee Recommendation: Yes
Discussion: BL motioned to vote on the proposal, AN seconded
June Board: Yes (10 yes / 1 no)
NEXT GEN SUPERBIKE
10.9.2 NEXT GEN SUPERBIKE 2
MV Agusta F4 750 ORO, S, S 1+1, SPR, 1999-2004. 750cc models (J. Scott Rothermel)
Committee Recommendation: Yes
Discussion: BL motioned to vote on the proposal, AN seconded
June Board: Yes – (Unanimous vote)
10.9.2.1 NEXT GEN SUPERBIKE 2
c) CHASSIS AND FRAME
8) No Radial calipers allowed. No perimeter calipers allowed. (John Turner)
Committee Recommendation: Yes
Discussion: BL motioned to vote on the proposal, AN seconded
June Board: Yes (Unanimous vote)
10.9.3 NEXT GEN SUPERBIKE LIGHTWEIGHT
b) ENGINE
2) Engines must be from the same make and model as the frame. All manufacturer engines should be period correct. Engine OEM parts may be updated only if they are directly interchangeable and have no performance advantage. Superbike rules apply to engines unless specified otherwise. The Yamaha RZ must use OEM RZ350 or Banshee cylinders. No aftermarket Banshee cylinders allowed (Cheetah, Driveline etc.). Yamaha RZ may use “cool head”. (Wm. Brian Wells)
Committee Recommendation: Yes
Discussion: BL motioned to vote on the proposal, AN seconded
June Board: Yes (Unanimous vote)
10.9.3 NEXT GEN SUPERBIKE LIGHTWEIGHT
c) CHASSIS AND FRAME
6) No restrictions on wheel size, although period-appropriate appearance is strongly encouraged. All period appropriate wheel materials including aluminum, magnesium, and carbon fiber wheels are not allowed. (Craig Grantham)
Committee Recommendation: No
Discussion: BL motioned to vote on the proposal, AN seconded
June Board: No (Unanimous vote)
10.9.4 NEXT GEN SUPERBIKE MIDDLEWEIGHT
To provide a post historical Middleweight Class for motorcycles produced from 1985 through 1990.
89-90 Ducati 750 Sport LC/ V Twin/5 speed
87-90 Honda CBR600F1 LC/ IL 4/ 6 speed
85-90 Kawasaki Gpz600r LC/ IL 4/ 6 speed
85-91 Moto Guzzi 850 Lemans AC/V Twin/ 5 speed
92-93 Suzuki GSX-R 600 LC/IL4/ 6 speed
86 -88 Yamaha FZ 6 LC/IL4/6 speed
NOTE: The 91-94 Honda CBR600f2 is not eligible, It dominated the class for the next five years rule.
10.9.7 applies (Jim West)
Committee Recommendation: No
Discussion: BL motioned to vote on the proposal, AN seconded
June Board: Yes – Provisional for 1 year (Unanimous vote)
OBSERVED TRIALS
13.1.11 AIR COOLED MONO (ACM)
Trials machines manufactured just after the twin shock era, but before significant performance advances were introduced to trials bike technology. Typically mid-to-late 1980’s models. Eligible machines include:
Yamaha TY250/350 monos
Honda RTL250
Beta TR32-34
Gas Gas Halley 325
JCM 32
Montesa 304/330
Fantic 303
Merlin DG350 mono
Mecatechno Dragonfly
Armstrong 240-350
CanAm 240-350
Alfer TX300
Aprilia TX125-311, etc.
Some of these machines came standard with disc brakes (particularly on front), and period correct retrofits are permitted. (Curt Comer)
Committee Recommendation: No
Discussion: BL motioned to vote on the proposal, AN seconded
June Board: Yes – Provisional for 2021 (9 yes, 2 no) all sections must remain vintage friendly
13.2.6 ALL MODIFICATIONS MUST BE CONSISTENT WITH THE SPIRIT OF THE CLASS
Period modifications have been extensively documented and machines with obvious non-period or excessive modifications will be disqualified or required to compete in the next-higher-level class. Two-strokes in Classic classes must have piston-port induction; reed valves are not legal will be permitted if it was a factory modification by a recognized service agent in the same production series for such motorcycle. 125 cc and smaller would also be exempt.. Only round-slide carburetors may be used (see 11.2.c) (Richard Mott)
Committee Recommendation: No
Discussion: BL motioned to vote on the proposal, LC seconded
June Board: Yes, provisionally for 2021 (Unanimous vote)
13.6 SERIES POINTS, AWARDS
c) To encourage more riders to volunteer to help at National events, first-place points will be awarded at any one event per year to someone who works as a checker or trialmaster. No more than 20 points may be earned per day. A competitor still must ride in at least the specified minimum number of events to qualify for series awards; working at an event is not considered one of those rides. (Walt Foster)
Committee Recommendation: No
Discussion: LC motioned to vote on the proposal, KB seconded
June Board: Yes (Unanimous vote)
POST VINTAGE MOTOCROSS
12.1.3 HISTORIC 250
Certain 126-250cc machines built up to and including model year that made up the first generation of long-travel motorcycles. Eligible machines include:
1975-’77 Yamaha MX, YZ, DT, IT 175/250
1975-78 Yamaha MX,DT, IT 175/250. 1978 YZ 250 prohibited. (Keith Williams)
Committee Recommendation: Yes
Discussion: FG motioned to vote on the proposal, KB seconded
June Board: Yes (Unanimous vote)
12.1.4 HISTORIC 500
1975-’77 Yamaha YZ, MX, DT, IT 360/400, 1978 IT 400 (Keith Williams)
Committee Recommendation: Yes
Discussion: AN motioned to vote on the proposal, RP seconded
June Board: Yes (Unanimous vote)
12.1.7 POST VINTAGE 100cc (for 2020 season) Permanent approval for PV 100 class
88-100cc two-stroke and 88-125cc four-stroke motorcycles manufactured as up to 1984-model-year machines, and like-design. All 2 stroke motorcycles in this class must have been manufactured 100cc-or-smaller-displacement bikes. And four strokes manufactured as 125cc or smaller displacement bikes. Maximum engine displacement for two-strokes is 100cc, plus allowable overbore. Maximum engine displacement for four-strokes is 125cc, plus allowable overbore. Electronic ignitions and reed-valves are allowed. Hubs and forks from any Post Vintage eligible machine are permitted. Suspension travel is not limited. Disc brakes are not allowed. Eligible Machines to include:
Suzuki TM & RM to 1981
Yamaha DT, MX & YZ to 1983
Hodaka’s all 100cc models
Honda XR 100 & XL 125 to 1985 and like design
Kawasaki KE 100 (Mike Bickley)
Committee Recommendation: Yes for one more year
Discussion: LC motioned to vote on the proposal, FG seconded
June Board: Yes – One more year (Unanimous vote)
12.4 – 2.4.11 ADDITIONAL CLASSES
Allow riders of Pre-Modern class motocross machines to compete in PVMX rider age related classes. (Allen Wenzel)
Committee Recommendation: No
Discussion: FG motioned to vote on the proposal, AN seconded
June Board: No (Unanimous vote)
12.4.7 PRE-MODERN 16.0.1 PRE-MODERN
12.4.8 PRE-MODERN 125 16.0.2 PRE-MODERN 125
12.4.9 PRE-MODERN 250 16.0.3 PRE-MODERN 250
12.4.10 PRE-MODERN 500 16.0.4 PRE-MODERN 500
12.4.11 PRE-MODERN 4-STROKE 16.0.5 PRE-MODERN 4-STROKE
Certain single-cylinder 4-stroke motorcycles 250-650cc that were produced within the guidelines of the Pre-Modern class specification and Next Gen-1 era 4-stroke motorcycles incorporating a rear hydraulic disc brake. Eligible machines include, but are not limited to:
1984 ATK 560
1984 Honda XL350R, XL600R
1984-’89 Honda
XR250R 1984-’85
Honda XR350R 1983-’84
Honda XR500R 1983-’89
Honda XR600R
1987-’88 Husqvarna 510TC, 510TE, 510TX
1982 KTM 500K4, 500XC
1983-’88 KTM Any 4-Stroke, rear drum
1986-’87 Yamaha TT250
1985-’86 Yamaha TT600
1985-”00 Yamaha XT350
1984-’89 Yamaha XT600
4-stroke, dual disc, up to 1997 and like-design models, examples are:
1985-01 ATK DS/XC/MX 350-605
1990-98 Husaberg FE/FC 350-650
1989-99 Husqvarna TC/TE/TX/WXC/WXE 350-610
1994-03 Vertematti/VOR EN/MX 495-503
Japanese off-road and trail bikes-Honda XL/XR, Kawasaki KLX, Suzuki DR, Yamaha TTR/XT
Yamaha YZ400F and its variants are not allowed
Modern liquid-cooled Japanese 4-stroke motocross bikes, CR-F, KX-F, RMZ, YZ-F, are not allowed. (Allen Wenzel)
Committee Recommendation: Yes
Discussion: RP motioned to vote on the proposal, seconded TT
June Board: Yes (Unanimous vote) Approval is conditional on the incorporation/relocation of PV sections 12.4.8-12.4.11 to Next Gen sections 16.0.1-16.0.5.
12.5 TECH INSPECTION AND MODIFICATIONS
d) CARBURETORS: Period-type carburetors are strongly encouraged. Period flat-slide carbs are allowed on Historic and Grand Prix class motorcycles. Examples include Lake, Lectron, Posa, other period-type flat-slides. Active accelerator-pump equiped carburetors are allowed only on Ultima-class motorcycles; all others must be disconnected or removed, even if OEM-equiped. Dell’Orto accelerator pump carburetors are allowed in the Historic and Grand Prix classes only if the accelerator pump mechanism is disconnected or removed. Period flat-slide Mikuni carburetors are allowed only on Ultima class motorcycles. Keihin flat-slide carburetors are not permitted. No modern D-shape-slide or similar equivalent are allowed in AHRMA Post Vintage off-road competition. Keihin flat-slide and modern D-shape-slide carburetors allowed in Ultima only. (Greg Barratt)
Committee Recommendation: No
Discussion: Tabled, needs wordsmithing by committee
June Board: No vote
12.5 TECH INSPECTION AND MODIFICATIONS
d) CARBURETORS: Period-type carburetors are strongly encouraged. Period flat-slide carbs are allowed on Historic and Gran Prix class motorcycles. Examples include Lake, Lectron, Posa and other period-type flat-slides. Active accelerator- pump-equipped carburetors are allowed only on Ultima-class motorcycles; all others must be disconnected or removed, even if OEM-equipped. Dell’Orto accelerator pump carburetors are allowed in the Historic and Gran Prix classes only if the accelerator pump mechanism is disconnected or removed. Period flat-slide Mikuni carburetors are allowed only on Ultima class motorcycles. Keihin flat-slide carburetors are not permitted. No modern D-shape-slide or similar equivalent carburetors are allowed in AHRMA Post Vintage off-road competition. Keihin flat slide and modern d-shape slide carburetors allowed in Ultima Pre-Modern only.
(Allen Wenzel)
Committee recommended verbiage:
d) CARBURETORS: Period-type carburetors are strongly encouraged. Period flat-slide carbs are allowed on Historic and Grand Prix class motorcycles. Examples include Lake, Lectron, Posa, other period-type flat-slides. Active accelerator-pump equiped carburetors are allowed only on Ultima-class motorcycles; all others must be disconnected or removed, even if OEM-equiped. Dell’Orto accelerator pump carburetors are allowed in the Historic and Grand Prix classes only if the accelerator pump mechanism is disconnected or removed. Period flat-slide Mikuni TM carburetors are allowed only on Ultima class motorcycles. Mikuni TMX and Keihin PJ and PWK flat-slide carburetors are not permitted. Modern D-shape-slide or similar equivalent aftermarket OKO, and Chinese made reproductions are not allowed in AHRMA Post Vintage off-road competition.
Keihin flat-slide and modern D-shape-slide carburetors allowed in Ultima only.
Committee Recommendation: No with submitted verbiage, Yes with modified verbiage
Discussion: Board requested clarification of submission, yet to be discussed and voted on by the board as soon as is practical.
June Board:
12.5 TECH INSPECTION AND MODIFICATIONS
e) Hydraulically-assisted clutches are prohibited. (Greg Barratt)
Committee Recommendation: No
Discussion: KB motioned to vote on the proposal, LC seconded
June Board: No (Unanimous vote)
12.6 GENERAL MOTOCROSS RULES
The following rules in the Vintage Motocross section also apply to AHRMA Post Vintage MX:
11.3 Motocross Rider Grading System (Note: Rule 11.3h, dual-ability level, does not apply in Post Vintage classes.)
All AHRMA Post Vintage motocross classes are further divided into Intermediate and Expert categories. Novice classes are as follows: Historic, Grand Prix, Ultima, Pre Modern, Open Age, 40-60, 60 Plus and Women. There are no displacement classifications in any Novice class. All Novice classes shall run in Novice only motos and shall not be shall not be combined in a moto with any Intermediate or Expert class.
11.4 Equipment Required of All Motocross Riders
11.5 Scoring at AHRMA Events
11.6 Series Points Awards
11.7 Race Procedures
(Kelly Shane)
Committee Recommendation: Yes
Discussion: BL motioned to vote on the proposal, AN seconded
June Board: Yes (Unanimous vote)
SIDECAR
10.10.1 CLASSES
b) SUPER VINTAGE SIDECAR (SC2): Front-exit sidecars. Air-cooled, one- or two-cylinder, two- or four-stroke engines, built before December 31, 1972. Two-stroke, piston-port only reed valve prohibited, 500cc maximum. Four-stroke, 750cc maximum. Carbureted only, 34mm maximum venturi. Fuel injection, supercharging and turbocharging are prohibited. Stock stroke with crankshafts phased as per the manufacturer’s intent and stock bore plus allowable overbore with allowable overbore (see 9.7.2.c). Stock valve sizes. Motorcycle-based powerplants only. (Dale Lavendar)
Committee Recommendation: Yes
Discussion: Send back to committee for documentation regarding Reed Valves
June Board: Vote not taken
10.10.4.1 ENGINES
Air-cooled, one- or two-cylinder, two- or four-stroke engines, built before December 31, 1972. Two-stroke, piston-port only reed valve prohibited, 500cc maximum. Four-stroke, 750cc maximum. All engines in this class are restricted to stock valve sizes and carb venturi diameter of 34mm. Carbureted only. Carburetor restrictor plates, fuel injection, supercharging and turbo charging are prohibited. Stock stroke with crankshafts phased as per the manufacturer’s intent and stock bore with allowable overbore (see 9.7.2.c). Stock valve sizes. Motorcycle-based powerplants only. Examples:
BMW, up to 750cc displacement, five-speed transmissions permitted.
BSA 650
Ducati bevel-drive 750
Harley-Davidson Sportster 883 Iron-head (reduced to 750cc)
Honda 450/500 twin
Moto Guzzi 750
Norton Commando 750 (850 sleeved to 750cc)
Suzuki T500 (no TR500 components)
Triumph 650/750
Yamaha XS650, up to 750cc displacement (17-tooth front sprocket maximum) Yamaha TR3, R5
(Dale Lavendar)
Committee Recommendation: Yes
Discussion: Send back to committee for documentation regarding Reed Valves
June Board: Vote not taken
10.10.5.1 ENGINES
Air-cooled, one-, two- or three-cylinder two-stroke, one-, two-, three- or four-cylinder four-stroke engines, built before December 31, 1977. Two-stroke, piston-port or reed-valve, 550cc maximum. Four-Stroke multi cylinder two valve engines 844cc maximum. Altered stroke and/or re-phased crankshafts beyond the manufacturer’s intent are permitted. Carbureted permitted. Fuel injection permitted as per manufacturer original application. Supercharging and turbocharging are prohibited. Stock bore plus allowable overbore must be within the maximum displacement allowed.
Examples:
BMW R75
BSA twins and triples
Ducati bevel-drive 750
Honda 750
Kawasaki KZ750 twin, H1
Moto Guzzi 750
Norton Commando 750
Suzuki GS750, T500 (no TR500 components), GT380/550
Triumph twins and triples
Vincent 1000cc twins
Yamaha XS650, XS750 triple, RD350/400
(Dale Lavendar)
Committee Recommendation: Yes
Discussion: Send back to committee for documentation regarding Reed Valves
June Board: Vote not taken
SOUND OF SINGLES/BATTLE OF TWINS/SOUND OF THUNDER
10.12 SOUND OF THUNDER
10.12.1 MACHINE ELIGIBILITY
b) SOUND OF THUNDER 2 (SoT2): Any AHRMA Sound of Singles or Motard machine; liquid-cooled twins to 850cc 900cc; unlimited air-cooled twins; triples up to 675cc; and two-strokes to 250cc are allowed. (Ed Millich)
Committee Recommendation: No
Discussion: LC motioned to vote on the proposal, RP seconded
June Board: Yes (10 yes, 1 abstain)
10.12.1 MACHINE ELIGIBILITY
c) SOUND OF THUNDER 3 (SoT3) Any AHRMA Sound of Singles or Motard machine : Harley-Davidson XR1200, pushrod OHV twin-cylinder machines to 1000cc, OHC two- or three-valve twins to 805cc, SOHC liquid-cooled V-twins up to 750cc (plus overbore),OHC liquid-cooled four-valve twins to 650cc. Pushrod OHV machines over 900cc must run under Supersport specifications (see (9.8.1); Kramer EVO2 must meet the mechanical requirements in 9.8 b)-m). Suzuki SV650, Kawasaki 650R, Buell XB9R, Ducati 800SS and Monster limited to Supersport specifica-tions (see 9.8.1); otherwise must compete in SoT2. Thruxton Cup Challenge eligible machines may compete (see 10.14). Ducatis up to 750cc originally fitted with carburetors (e.g., 1991-98 750 Supersports and Monsters) must meet the mechanical requirements in 9.8 a) through m) only, with the additional requirement being they must use OEM or aftermarket carburetors. H-D XR1200 and Ducatis up to 805cc originally fitted with fuel injection (e.g., 750SSie, 800SS) must run under Supersport specifications (see 9.8.1). Machines originally equipped with 18” wheels may convert to 17” wheels. (Bill Gillis)
Committee Recommendation: No
Discussion: LC motioned to vote on the proposal, RP seconded
June Board: No (Unanimous vote)
10.13 BATTLE OF TWINS®
b) BOT 2: 0-900cc: Open to air-cooled twins 0 – 900cc (also to include Harley Davidson XL883 and XL1200 sportsters) (Chuck Crocco)
Committee Recommendation: No
Discussion: BL motioned to vote on the proposal, LC seconded
June Board: Yes – provisionally for 2021 (Unanimous vote)
10.14 THRUXTON CUP CHALLENGE
Remove Class (Carl Anderson)
Committee Recommendation: Yes
Discussion: RP motioned to vote on the proposal, BL seconded
June Board: Yes – leave on probationary status for 2021, review for 2022 (Unanimous vote)
10.14 THRUXTON CUP CHALLENGE
In addition to the above rules, the following rules apply specifically to the Harley-Davidson XL883 and XL1200 Sportster:
9) 18 inch front rims may be used with OEM hubs. (Seroj Terian)
Committee Recommendation: Yes
Discussion: BL motioned to vote on the proposal, FG seconded
June Board: Yes (Unanimous vote)
10.14 THRUXTON CUP CHALLENGE
In addition to the above rules, the following rules apply specifically to the Harley-Davidson XL883 and XL1200 Sportster:
10) Handlebars or clipons may be used. (Seroj Terian)
Committee Recommendation: Yes
Discussion: BL motioned to vote on the proposal, LC seconded
June Board: Yes (Unanimous vote)
10.15 SOUND OF SINGLES®
10.15.1 MACHINE ELIGIBILITY
c) SOUND OF SINGLES 3 (SoS3):Single-cylinder machines with GP or Motard chassis as follows: Liquid-cooled two-strokes to 250cc; air-cooled two-strokes to 300cc; liquid-cooled four-strokes to 250cc and air-cooled four-strokes to 350cc.
Single-cylinder machines with production chassis (with street-legal VIN) as follows: Liquid-cooled two-strokes to 300cc; air-cooled two-strokes to 350cc; liquid-cooled four-strokes to 375cc; air-cooled four-strokes to 400cc. All bikes must retain stock bore & stroke, swingarm, frame (except that the rear upper sub-frame may be removed and/or modified), and fork. Eligible machines include KTM 390RC and Duke. (Edward Blount)
Committee Recommendation: No
Discussion: BL motioned to vote on the proposal, KB seconded
June Board: Yes (6 yes, 5 no)
10.15 SOUND OF SINGLES®
10.15.1 MACHINE ELIGIBILITY
d) MOTARD: Motocross, off road, dual-sport and Motard-specfic single cylinder machines of unlimited displacement. 2 Stroke Liquid cooled to 500cc, 2 Stroke Air cooled unlimited, 4 Stroke Liquid cooled to 570cc, 4 stroke Air cooled unlimited (Mike Harlowe, Sr.)
Committee Recommendation: Yes
Discussion: BL motioned to vote on the proposal, LC seconded
June Board: Yes (9 yes, 1 no, 1 abstain)
VINTAGE MOTOCROSS
11.1.1 PREMIER LIGHTWEIGHT
Certain pre-modern era machines, 0-250cc 150-250cc. (Allen Wenzel)
Committee Recommendation: No
Discussion: KC motioned to vote on the proposal, AN seconded
June Board: Yes (Unanimous vote)
11.1.1 PREMIER LIGHTWEIGHT
a) Ineligible are all models of Yamaha, Suzuki, Bultaco, Ossa, Montesa, alloy-barrel Maico, Husqvarna and Greeves (unless Villiers powered). Refer to Sportsman and Classic classes. Eligible machines: Montesa Texas (12M) 175cc and Montesa El Diablo (13M) 250cc scramblers. (Allen Wenzel)
Committee Recommendation: No
Discussion: DP motioned to vote on the proposal, RP seconded
June Board: No (10 no, 1 yes)
11.1.11 SPORTSMAN 125
88-125cc two-stroke and 88-150cc four-stroke motorcycles Honda MT 125 1975/1976 through the 1974 model year, and like-design machines. Eligible like-design 1975 model machines include (see “like design” note below):
Honda MT 125 1975/1976
(Richard Colahan)
Committee Recommendation: Yes
Discussion: TT motioned to vote on the proposal, AN seconded
June Board: Yes (Unanimous vote)
11.1.11 SPORTSMAN 125
88-125cc two-stroke and 88-150cc four-stroke motorcycles Honda MT 125 1975/1976 through the 1974 model year, and like-design machines. Eligible like-design 1975 model machines include (see “like design” note below):
Honda XL 125 1974 through 1978
(Richard Colahan)
Committee Recommendation: Yes
Discussion: FG motioned to vote on the proposal, AN seconded
June Board: Yes – Accept through ’75 (Unanimous vote)
11.1.11 SPORTSMAN 125
88-125cc two-stroke and 88-150cc four-stroke motorcycles Honda MT 125 1975/1976 through the 1974 model year, and like-design machines. Eligible like-design 1975 model machines include (see “like design” note below):
Yamaha DT 125 1975
(Richard Colahan)
Committee Recommendation: Yes
Discussion: AN motioned to vote on the proposal, DP seconded
June Board: Yes (Unanimous vote)
11.1.12 SPORTSMAN 250
Motorcycles manufactured as 126-250cc two-strokes or 151-300cc four-strokes through the 1974 model year, and like-design machines. Eligible like-design 1975 model machines include (see “like design” note below):
Honda XL 175 1975 through 1978
(Richard Colahan)
Committee Recommendation: Yes
Discussion: AN motioned to vote on the proposal, FG seconded
June Board: Yes (Unanimous vote)
11.1.12 SPORTSMAN 250
Motorcycles manufactured as 126-250cc two-strokes or 151-300cc four-strokes through the 1974 model year, and like-design machines. Eligible like-design 1975 model machines include (see “like design” note below):
Honda XL 250 1975
(Richard Colahan)
Committee Recommendation: Yes
Discussion: AN motioned to vote on the proposal, FG seconded
June Board: Yes (Unanimous vote)
11.1.12 SPORTSMAN 250
Motorcycles manufactured as 126-250cc two-strokes or 151-300cc four-strokes through the 1974 model year, and like-design machines. Eligible like-design 1975 model machines include (see “like design” note below): Bultaco 250 Pursang (serial #135; must use 1974-configuration swingarm). Also see note at end of Sportsman rules.
Honda MT 250 1976
(Richard Colahan)
Committee Recommendation: Yes
Discussion: AN motioned to vote on the proposal, FG seconded
June Board: Yes (Unanimous vote)
11.1.12 SPORTSMAN 250
Motorcycles manufactured as 126-250cc two-strokes or 151-300cc four-strokes through the 1974 model year, and like-design machines. Eligible like-design 1975 model machines include (see “like design” note below): Bultaco 250 Pursang (serial #135; must use 1974-configuration swingarm). Also see note at end of Sportsman rules.
Yamaha DT 175 1975 and Yamaha DT 250 1975
(Richard Colahan)
Committee Recommendation: Yes
Discussion: AN motioned to vote on the proposal, FG seconded
June Board: Yes (Unanimous vote)
11.1.13 SPORTSMAN 500
Motorcycles manufactured as 325-625cc through the 1974 model year, and like-design machines. Eligible like-design 1975 model machines include (see “like design” note below):
Yamaha DT 360/400 1975
(Richard Colahan)
Committee Recommendation: Yes
Discussion: AN motioned to vote on the proposal, FG seconded
June Board: Yes (Unanimous vote)
11.1.5 100cc MOTOCROSS
8-100cc two-stroke and 88-120cc Four-stroke production motorcycles manufactured as up to 1974-model-year machines, and like-design. Eligible machines include:
Honda CT90 or CB/CL/SL/XL100 or CB/CL/SL/XL125
(Curt Comer)
Committee Recommendation: Yes
Discussion: AN motioned to vote on the proposal, FG seconded
June Board: Yes – Exclude XL125 (Unanimous vote)
11.2 TECH INSPECTION & MODIFICATIONS
b) ENGINES:
3) Hydraulically-assisted clutches are prohibited.(Greg Barratt)
Committee Recommendation: No
Discussion: AN motioned to vote on the proposal, AN seconded
June Board: No (Unanimous vote)
11.3 MOTOCROSS RIDER GRADING SYSTEM
All AHRMA Vintage motocross classes are further divided into Novice, Intermediate and Expert categories. Novice classes are as follows: Premier, Classic, Sportsman, Open Age, 40-60, 60 Plus and Women. There are no displacement classifications in any Novice class. Novice classes shall not be combined with any Intermediate or Expert class. All Novice classes shall run in Novice only motos.
(Kelly Shane)
Committee Recommendation: No
Discussion: RP motioned to vote on the proposal, AN seconded
June Board: Yes (10 yes, 1 no)
11.6 SERIES POINTS, AWARDS
c) A rider must score points in at least four events to be eligible for series awards, or according to requirements as published in AHRMA MAG from time to time. National championship points will be awarded at a season ending event located in a centrally located facility in the continental United States. Eligibility for this event will be determined by a. winning your local region (Great Lakes, South East etc. or b. being one of (x) amount of top scoring riders that did not win a regional championship, quantity of riders shall fill 20 rider gate at National Championship finale.
(Carl Hill)
Committee Recommendation: No
Discussion: KS motioned to vote on the proposal, AN seconded
June Board: No (Unanimous vote)
VINTAGE ROADRACING
9.7 MECHANICAL REQUIREMENTS FOR VINTAGE CLASSES
9.7.1 (Graphic) Center to center not to exceed 2″ at any point. tubing diameter not to exceed 5/8″. (Stephen Spencer)
Committee Recommendation: No
Discussion: DP motioned to vote on the proposal, KB seconded
June Board: No (Unanimous vote)
9.7.3 FRAMES
f). Frames and swingarms must be made in the same type (tubing style) and manner as original or period. (Stephen Spencer)
Committee Recommendation: No
Discussion: KB motioned to vote on the proposal, LC seconded
June Board: No (Unanimous vote)
9.7.3 FRAMES
i) Monoshock or cantilever rear suspension is prohibited permitted (except Vincent original equipment). (John Concklin)
Committee recommends wording be written as, “Monoshock rear suspension is allowed only where machines factory equipped with them are listed as eligible. Ex: Yamaha TZ750 in Formula Vintage”
Committee Recommendation: Yes
Discussion: BL motioned to vote on the proposal, TT seconded
June Board: Yes, with committee verbiage (Unanimous vote)
9.7.5 TIRES & RIMS
a) Roadracing tires must be of modern racing compound (only DOT-type permitted). No Slicks, soft rain tires or hand-cut slicks are permitted in vintage classes. Tires must be treaded and not excessively worn. (John Concklin)
Committee Recommendation: No
Discussion: KB motioned to vote on the proposal, LC seconded
June Board: No (Unanimous vote)
9.7.14 CARBURETORS
a) Flat-slide or Lectron-type and injection-type carburetors are not permitted. (John Concklin)
Committee Recommendation: No
Discussion: KB motioned to vote on the proposal, DP seconded
June Board: No (Unanimous vote)
10.2 GRAND PRIX: 500 Premier, 350 GP, 250 GP, 200 GP Plus
Fully GP-kitted motorcycles built prior to December 31, 1968 and like design. (Arthur Kowitz)
Committee Recommendation: No
Discussion: BL motioned to vote on the proposal, AN seconded
June Board: No (Unanimous vote)
10.2.1 500 PREMIER
Any fully GP-kitted 500cc OHV/OHC or 750cc sidevalve four-strokes built before December 31, 1968, and like design. Among the eligible machines are:
Honda RC181 4-cylinder (no replicas) (Stephen Spencer)
Committee Recommendation: No
Discussion: KB motioned to vote on the proposal, BL seconded
June Board: No (Unanimous vote)
10.2.1 500 PREMIER
Any fully GP-kitted 500cc OHV/OHC or 750cc sidevalve four-strokes built before December 31, 1968, and like design. Among the eligible machines are:
AJS 7R and 7R3 (Arthur Kowitz)
Committee Recommendation: No
Discussion: BL motioned to vote on the proposal, AN seconded
June Board: No (Unanimous vote)
10.2.5 200 GRAND PRIX PLUS
Honda MR175
Move to:
10.3.4 FORMULA 125
Honda MR175
(Bill Doran)
Committee Recommendation: Yes
Discussion: BL motioned to vote on the proposal, AN seconded
June Board: Yes (Unanimous vote)
10.3.1A REQUIREMENTS AND MODIFICATIONS FOR F750
h) Modifications must be consistent with the spirit of the class. (Stephen Spencer)
Committee Recommendation: NO
Discussion: BL motioned to vote on the proposal, FG seconded
June Board: No (Unanimous vote)
10.3.1A REQUIREMENTS AND MODIFICATIONS FOR F750
j) Keihin CR Special carburetors are allowed, maximum 31mm for four-cylinders, 34mm for triples and 39mm for twins.
Committee Recommendation: Yes
Discussion: BL motioned to vote on the proposal, AN seconded
June Board: Yes (Unanimous vote)
10.3.2 FORMULA 500
Honda SOHC fours to 550cc, DOHC twins to 550ccHonda Aircooled fours to 1100cc and Air cooled twins to 1100cc are eligible in F750, adjusting for the 2 stroke 4 stroke indexing.
Honda Air cooled fours and twins to 500cc compete in Formula 250 class. (Stephen Spencer)
Committee Recommendation: No
Discussion: BL motioned to vote on the proposal, LC seconded
June Board: No (Unanimous vote)
10.3.3 FORMULA 250
Two-stroke twins up to 250cc, two-stroke singles to 360cc, four-stroke singles to 350cc, Honda CB350 twins and Honda CB350F fours. All motorcycles must be fully GP-kitted. The cutoff date is December 31, 1972. Like-design models also are permitted.
Honda CB350K twin, CB350 four, CB400F four with original stroke and bore (.020” .040″overbore permitted) (Wm. Brian Wells)
Committee Recommendation: Yes
Discussion: BL motioned to vote on the proposal, AN seconded
June Board: Yes (Unanimous vote)
10.3.6 REQUIREMENTS AND MODIFICATIONS FOR FORMULA 125/250/500
f) Honda four-cylinder machines may use Keihin CR Special carburetors allowed in all Formula classes. Maximum 26mm for CB350/400 fours in Formula 250 and Formula 500. (Kevin Dinsmoor)
Committee Recommendation: No
Discussion: DP motioned to vote on the proposal, BL seconded
June Board: No (Unanimous vote)
10.4.3 CLASSIC SIXTIES
This class is intended for 1960s-era and earlier “Grand Prix” and “Clubman” racers built before December 31, 1969 (and later machines of like design) 350cc/500cc OHV and OHC or 750cc sidevalve machines. (John Rickard)
Committee Recommendation: No
Discussion: DP motioned to vote on the proposal, BL seconded
June Board: No (Unanimous vote)
10.4.3 CLASSIC SIXTIES
This class is intended for 1960s-era and earlier “Grand Prix” and “Clubman” racers (and later machines of like design), 350cc/500cc OHV and OHC or 750cc sidevalve machines. Clubman bikes are production bikes that were raced by amateurs who participated in racing clubs. Typically these bikes were daily transportation that were also ridden to and from the racing tracks. “Clubman trim” includes low handlebars or clip-ons and rear-set foot pegs (John Rickard)
Committee Recommendation: No
Discussion: BL motioned to vote on the proposal, AN seconded
June Board: No (Unanimous vote)
10.4.3 CLASSIC SIXTIES
All major components must be OEM parts that existed in that era, or accurate, detailed replicas of the same parts using the same type materials and technologies. (John Rickard)
Committee Recommendation: Yes
Discussion: BL motioned to vote on the proposal, AN seconded
June Board: Yes (Unanimous vote)
10.4.3 CLASSIC SIXTIES
AJS 7R
AJS Model 20
BSA Gold Star, up to DBD
BSA A7 Twin
BSA B44
BSA A50
Gilera Saturno
Harley-Davidson KR750 (no “lowboy” frames), with stock exhaust only
Matchless G9
Matchless G50
(John Rickard)
Committee Recommendation: No
Discussion: BL motioned to vote on the proposal, AN seconded
June Board: No (Unanimous vote)
10.4.3 CLASSIC SIXTIES
Triumph T100 pre-unit Triumph T100 unit-construction. Triumph unit-construction twins must include the following: The head must be of the pre-’67 “squishband” type. The maximum carburetor size is 28mm, and bikes must conform to all other Classic Sixties rules. Results in this class for 2020 be (sic) reviewed.
Velocette Thruxton and Venom Clubman
Velocette KTT and KSS
Vincent Grey Flash and Comet
(John Rickard)
Committee Recommendation: No
Discussion: BL motioned to vote on the proposal, AN seconded
June Board: No (Unanimous vote)
10.4.3 CLASSIC SIXTIES
AJS 7R
BSA Gold Star, up to DBD BSA A7 Twin
BSA B50
Gilera Saturno
(John Rickard)
Committee Recommendation: No
Discussion: RP motioned to vote on the proposal, BL seconded
June Board: No (Unanimous vote)
10.4.3 CLASSIC SIXTIES
CLASSIC SIXTIES: This class is intended for 1960s-era and earlier “Grand Prix” and “Clubman” racers (and later machines of like design), 350cc/500cc OHV and OHC or 750cc sidevalve machines. Classic 60s and Classic 60s 650 are classes that replicate Clubman racing of the era. Machines such as Aermacchis that have pushrods but also have extensive GP experience are not allowed. All major components must be OEM parts that existed in that era, or accurate, detailed replicas of the same parts using the same type materials and technologies. The burden of authenticating is upon the rider. Press clippings and photos with identifiable dates may be helpful. Among the eligible machines are:
AJS 7R
BSA Gold Star, up to DBD
BSA A7 Twin
Gilera Saturno
Harley-Davidson KR750 (no “lowboy” frames), with stock exhaust only
Matchless G50
Matchless G45 and accurate replicas
Norton Daytona Dominator 500
(John Rickard)
Committee Recommendation: No
Discussion: BL motioned to vote on the proposal, LC seconded
June Board: No (Unanimous vote)
10.4.3 CLASSIC SIXTIES
Royal Enfield Bullet built in India, four-speed, five speed models permitted only if the transmission is mechanically limited to four speeds
Velocette Thruxton and Venom Clubman
Velocette KTT and KSS
Vincent Grey Flash
(John Rickard)
Committee Recommendation: No
Discussion: BL motioned to vote on the proposal, LC seconded
June Board: No (Unanimous vote)
10.4.3A CLASSIC SIXTIES 650
Among the eligible machines are:
All non-unit British 650cc OHV machines
All European 650cc OHV machines
Triton (Triumph engine in a Norton featherbed frame)
Unit-construction BSA A65, up to 650cc, in clubman trim
Unit-construction long-rod triumph TR6/T120, up to 650cc, in Clubman trim
Harley-Davidson KH 55-cubic inch sidevalve
Kawasaki W1
Note: Unit construction British machines may not use 1971-later OEM oil-bearing frames.
(John Rickard)
Committee Recommendation: Yes
Discussion: BL motioned to vote on the proposal, RP seconded
June Board: Yes (Unanimous vote)
10.4.3A CLASSIC SIXTIES 650
Among the eligible machines are:
All non-unit British 650cc OHV machines
All European 650cc OHV machines
Unit-construction BSA A65, up to 650cc, in clubman trim
Unit-construction long-rod triumph TR6/T120, up to 650cc, in Clubman trim
Harley-Davidson KH 55-cubic inch sidevalve
Kawasaki W1
Note: Unit construction British machines may not use 1971-later OEM oil-bearing frames.(John Rickard)
Committee Recommendation: No
Discussion: BL motioned to vote on the proposal, RP seconded
June Board: Yes, provisionally for 2021 (Unanimous vote)
10.4.3.B REQUIREMENTS AND MODIFICATIONS FOR CLASSIC SIXTIES
g) Brakes must (sic) of the period (i.e., two-shoe-type drum). Later-model BSA and Triumph drum brakes are allowed. (Manx Norton may use original four-shoe, seven-inch front brake). Minimum wheel diameter is 18 inches; maximum rim width is WM3 (2.15-in). OHC machines must use minimum 19-inch wheels, front and rear. (John Rickard)
Committee Recommendation: No
Discussion: KB motioned to vote on the proposal, BL seconded
June Board: No (Unanimous vote)
10.4.3.B REQUIREMENTS AND MODIFICATIONS FOR CLASSIC SIXTIES
i) All machines must be GP or Clubman racers in essentially factory-standard trim.From the committee i) All machines must be in GP or Clubman trim consistent with the period.
(John Rickard)
Committee Recommendation: No, proposed verbiage that would be acceptable
Discussion: BL motioned to vote on the proposal, LC seconded
June Board: Yes, for committees proposed verbiage (Unanimous vote)
10.4.3.B REQUIREMENTS AND MODIFICATIONS FOR CLASSIC SIXTIES
l) All machines must use period-style low exhausts only. Pipes must pass below the gearshift spindle. Velocettes may use a higher, OEM racing configuration exhaust. Twins must use two separate exhaust pipes (no two-into-one exhausts). (John Rickard)
Committee Recommendation: No
Discussion: BL motioned to vote on the proposal, LC seconded
June Board: No (Unanimous vote)
10.XX Two Stroke Classic GP
Machines from the period 1974-1984. Made to race water cooled GP machines or replicas using high quality craftsmanship and period design.
Frames of steel or aluminum, period designs, not Deltabox style.
250, 350 classes run together but score points separately.
Period 18″ wheels.
No upside down forks or other non-period components.
(Carl Anderson)
Committee Recommendation: Yes
Discussion: KB motioned to vote on the proposal, BL seconded
June Board: Yes (Unanimous vote)
VINTAGE SUPERBIKE
10.8.2 REQUIREMENTS AND MODIFICATIONS FOR VINTAGE SUPERBIKE
b) ENGINE
3) All round-slide carbs are allowed (Keihin CR, Dell’Orto, Mikuni “smooth bore” and like design). Flat-slide carbs are not allowed. Mikuni VM33 for the 1025 displacement in heavy weight superbike class is allowed. Pumper carbs may be used, but the pumper mechanism must be disabled. 1025cc four-cylinders may use carburetors up to 29mm, or the stock constant-velocity carburetors that were original equipment on that machine. (Mark Danko)
Committee Recommendation: No
Discussion: LC motioned to vote on the proposal, RP seconded
June Board: No (Unanimous vote)
GENERAL / HOUSEKEEPING / ADMINISTRATIVE
The Board of Trustees agreed to pass authority for performing housekeeping
NEW RULE
Require date of birth and or age of rider on all entry forms.
Committee Recommendation:
Discussion: Policy
June Board: ED will ensure all entry forms will have date of birth or age of rider on all entry forms
NO RULE NUMBER
Change requirements to be more open for Barber end of year event. Due to the Covid 19 cancellations so far and to come. This has really screwed my plans up for this year already with CMP being cancelled.
Committee Recommendation:
Discussion: Administrative
June Board: No vote required, administrative
NO RULE NUMBER – ELIGIBILITY REQUEST FORM VERBIAGE UPDATE
This form must be used for classes in which machine approval is a prerequisite. The form must be accompanied by three photos – one of each side and one clearly showing the engine – and returned to Eligibility Request, AHRMA National Office, 49 Ferguson Lane Elora, TN 37328 or by email to curt.comer@ahrma.org. The form must be received at least 14 days before the event in which you want to compete (please allow longer if possible). You will be notified whether your eligibility has been granted or denied.
The Eligibility Request Form is to be used for determining the eligibility of:
A) a motorcycle not specified on the class list (ex., a one-off, a motorcycle from another class, a motorcycle seeming to meet the definition of the class but unmentioned on the class list)
B) a modification to an eligible motorcycle when the mod is unmentioned in the existing rules.C) a motorcycle modification is questionable, requiring interpretation of an existing rule.
The decision of the Rules and Eligibility Committee will be valid until the conclusion of the next full rules change cycle. Lasting resolution and inclusion of the determination in the handbook must be made by the member (not AHRMA staff) submitting a Rules Change Proposal during the specified rules change proposal period.” The form must be accompanied by three photos – one of each side and one clearly showing the engine – and returned to Eligibility Request, AHRMA National Office, 49 Ferguson Lane Elora, TN 37328 or by email to curt.comer@ahrma.org. The form must be received at least 21 days before the event in which you want to compete (please allow longer if possible). You will be notified whether your eligibility has been granted or denied.
Committee Recommendation: None
Discussion: Administrative
June Board: Vote not required
3.4 RIDER ELIGIBILITY
3.4.1 GENERAL
a) All riders in AHRMA events, including roadrace (including Sidecar passengers), motocross, dirt tracks, cross country and trials, must be full members of AHRMA and hold an AHRMA Competition License.
Require all entry forms to contain expiration date found on the AHRMA Membership Card. (Michael Collier)
Committee Recommendation:
Discussion: Policy
June Board: ED will ensure all entry forms will have expiration date
3.4.1 GENERAL
a) All riders in AHRMA events, including roadrace (including Sidecar passengers), motocross, dirt tracks, cross country and trials, must be full members of AHRMA and hold an AHRMA Competition License.
Proof of membership should be on all entry forms. This includes membership number and expiration date. (Michael Collier)
Committee Recommendation:
Discussion: Policy
June Board: ED will ensure all entry forms will have membership number and expiration date
4.7 REFUNDS
c) If a riders machine goes on track the day the request is dated there should be no credit/refund for that day. the rider does the practice sessions and can’t make a race due to mechanical issues with his bike then he should be charged for the amount of 1/2 of an entry fee for only ONE race entry fee and any further entry fees paid should be credited to the rider to be used at another time. Also if a rider doesn’t race in a race he should get at least 1/2 the entry fee credit for that race. (Lloyd Johnson)
Committee Recommendation: No
Discussion: BL motioned to vote on the proposal, DP seconded
June Board: No (Unanimous vote)
6.2 PENALTIES
6.2.1 Specific penalties range from reprimand to banishment. The hierarchy of penalties follows:
- Fines: Fines from $25 to $150 may be levied by race officials. Fines from $25 to $500 may be levied in lieu of or in addition to other penalties, based upon the severity of the infraction and the recommendations of the race officials.
- Assessments: The Executive Director or the Board of Trustees may assess an AHRMA member costs incurred by the association, including, but not limited to, phone, travel, AHRMA staff time and Board members’ time (at a rate of $25 per hour), incurred as a result of actions of a member that are not in the normal and usual course of the association’s business. Such assessment shall be due and payable within 10 days of mailing to the member’s last known address. Failure to pay such assessment shall subject to possible suspension. A team owner may be jointly and severally liable for assessments levied against a rider or member of such team.
- Reprimands: Entrants will be given written reprimands for minor infractions committed by themselves or crew where a written record of the situation seems desirable. All written reprimands will be sent from the AHRMA office.
- Loss of Points: Offenses more serious than satisfied by reprimand may result in partial or total loss of points earned year to date.
- Removal from Events: Entrants may be removed from an individual meet for breach of rules or conduct.
- Probation: In cases of offenses that are repeats of previous reprimands, or of a significantly more blatant nature, an entrant may be placed on probation for a fixed period. Probation may only be levied after review of the case by the AHRMA Executive Director. Probations may be published in AHRMA MAG at the discretion of the Executive Director.
- Suspension: Competition licenses may be suspended for violation of probation, as well as flagrant breach of AHRMA rules. Suspension shall begin with notification by registered letter from the National Office. Suspension may be imposed only by the AHRMA Executive Director. Membership may be retained and AHRMA MAG received while the member is suspended from competition. Suspended members are not in good standing and may not vote for trustees. Suspensions will be published in AHRMA MAG.
- Banishment: In cases of the most flagrant breaches, or with entrants who are habitual and deemed incorrigible, banishment will be applied. This punishment will include lifetime loss of AHRMA license and membership rights. Banishment will only be levied by a majority vote of the AHRMA Board of Trustees and will always result in being published in AHRMA MAG.
6.2.2 Where a competitor has been found to have used an ineligible performance-related component, the penalty shall be loss of accumulated season points and results for any class in which that machine was ineligible. A second infraction in any 12-month period shall result in the rider’s suspension for up to 13 months.
6.2.3 Any rider refusing to allow an inspection of his machine by race officials will be disqualified from that event and may lose all accumulated season points for that class. In addition, that rider will be suspended for up to 13 months at the discretion of the Executive Director.
6.2.4 (Dewanna Comer)
Committee Recommendation: Yes
Discussion: Administrative
June Board: No vote required
9.6.5 Points will be awarded at all roadraces according to the following schedule.
National Series awards are based on a rider’s best finishes in one-half of a total number of races up to 20, in the series, rounded up to the next whole number if necessary (e.g., in a 19-race series, a rider’s 10 best finishes count). A rider must score points in at least two events to be eligible for National series awards. (David Tompkins)
Committee Recommendation: No
Discussion: BL motioned to vote on the proposal, AN seconded
June Board: No (Unanimous vote)
10.5.4 REQUIREMENTS AND MODIFICATIONS FOR SPORTSMAN
f) Wheel rim diameter must be at least 18 inches and cannot exceed WM3 (2.15 inches) front and WM4 (2.5 inches) rear. WM4 (2.5 inches) front rims and WM5 (3.0 inches) rear rims are permitted on 750s only. (Kevin Burns)
Committee Recommendation: Yes
Discussion: Housekeeping – no vote required.
June Board: No vote
10.6 Novice Historic Production
(Tom Hillard)
Committee Recommendation: No
Discussion: DP motioned to vote on the proposal, LC seconded
June Board: No (Unanimous vote)
10.10 SIDECAR
SIDECAR ROADRACING MISSION STATEMENT: To preserve the rich and full history of the golden era of Sidecar roadracing by maintaining a venue to showcase the types of roadracing Sidecar outfits that made the sport an integral part of the historic Grand Prix experience and showcase types of sidecars which have historically been under represented in modern road racing. (Arthur Kowitz)
Committee Recommendation: Yes (Housekeeping)
Discussion: BL motioned to vote on the proposal, KB seconded
June Board: Yes (Unanimous vote)
10.13 BATTLE OF TWINS®
a) BOT 1: 900cc-OPEN 905cc-OPEN
b) BOT 2: 0-900cc 0-904cc
(Bill Doran)
Committee Recommendation: Yes
Discussion: Housekeeping – no vote required.
June Board: No vote
11.1.14 SPORTSMAN OPEN TWINS
The Sportsman eligibility list is now complete with regard to non-like-design post-1974 machines. However, proposals for inclusion of like-design machines are always welcome.
Proposals for Vintage Motocross Rules Changes or the inclusion of additional post-1974 like-design machines (year/make/model) must be made via the Rule Change Proposal Form (Section 19, page 132) during the annual period for Rules Change Proposals announced on the AHRMA.ORG web site. Approved changes become effective on an annual basis. Note: The Eligibility Request Form (ERF, Section 19, page 130) is not to be used for this purpose. The ERF is used when classification for a specific “one-off” machine or approval of its individual components is required. (Richard Colahan)
Committee Recommendation: Yes
Discussion: BL motioned to vote on the proposal, LC seconded
June Board: No – Changes will be made to the wording in the handbook to address proposer’s valid concern. (Unanimous vote)
11.6 SERIES POINTS, AWARDS
Year-end scoring ties will be broken as follows: Year-end scoring ties will be broken by the greatest number of moto wins, then second-pace moto finishes, third-place, etc. In the event of an absolute tie, the oldest rider wins.
Year-end scoring ties will be broken as follows: Year-end scoring ties will be broken by the greatest number of moto wins, then second-pace moto finishes, third-place, etc. In the event of an absolute tie, the oldest rider wins. will go to the rider who accumulated the most points during head-to-head competition. If still tied or if they did not compete against each other, year end scoring ties will be broken by the greatest number of moto wins, then second-pace moto finishes, third-place, etc. In the event of an absolute tie, the oldest rider wins. (Albert Newmann)
Committee Recommendation: Yes
Discussion: BL motioned to vote on the proposal, FG seconded
June Board: Yes (Unanimous vote)
SECTION 12 – POST VINTAGE MOTOCROSS
MISSION STATEMENT
Please submit any requests for new rules or machine eligibility to the Post Vintage Motocross Rules & Eligibility Committee (see Section 17).
NOTE: All modifications must be consistent with the intended time frame of the class. Proposals for Post Vintage Motocross Rules Changes or general machine (year/make/model) Eligibility Class changes must be made via the Rule Change Proposal Form (Section 19, page 132) during the annual period for Rules Change Proposals announced on the AHRMA.ORG web site. Approved changes become effective on an annual basis. Note: The Eligibility Request Form (ERF, Section 19, page 130) is not to be used for this purpose. The ERF is used when classification for a specific “one-off” machine or approval of its individual components is required. (Richard Colahan)
Committee Recommendation: No
Discussion: BL motioned to vote on the proposal, FG seconded
June Board: No – Changes will be made to the wording in the handbook to address proposer’s valid concern. (Unanimous vote)
12.1 HISTORIC – CLASSES AND ELIGIBILITY
Move PV Historic 125.250.500 dual shock bikes to Vintage on Saturday . This will To allow more time for Nex Gen Classes on Sunday at all Nationals. (Greg Conn)
Committee Recommendation: No
Discussion: BL motioned to vote on the proposal, AN seconded
June Board: No – race policy, no reason to have any PVMX with VMX (Unanimous vote)
12.1.2 Historic 125
Section 12.1.2, Historic 125 includes incorrect listings for a) 1975 Honda CR 125, b) 1975 Yamaha MX 125 and c) 1975 Yamaha YZ 125. (Richard Colahan)
Committee Recommendation: No
Discussion: BL motioned to vote on the proposal, TT seconded
June Board: No – Changes will be made to the wording in the handbook to address proposer’s valid concern. (Unanimous vote)
12.1.3 Historic 250
Section 12.1.3 Historic 250 includes incorrect listings for a) 1975 Honda MT 250 and b) 1975 Yamaha MX 175. (Richard Colahan)
Committee Recommendation: No
Discussion: BL motioned to vote on the proposal, FG seconded
June Board: No – Changes will be made to the wording in the handbook to address proposer’s valid concern. (Unanimous vote)
NO SECTION NUMBER – PROCEDURAL
No rule changes for two years with regards to mechanical, or class changes. The only rules to be changed in “off” years would be procedural, safety and operations. (Kevin Dinsmoor)
Committee Recommendation: No
Discussion: BL motioned to vote on the proposal, FG seconded
June Board: No – Task force to be created to assess current rules procedures to determine / implement streamlined process. (Unanimous vote)
NO SECTION NUMBER – PROCEDURAL
Frivolous, perennial rule-change proposals shall be disallowed. One must have raced, or currently race in a discipline to propose a rule change for that particular discipline. Someone who is not now, nor has ever been, a competitor may not propose rule changes for that discipline. (Patrick McGraw)
Committee Recommendation: No
Discussion:
June Board: No vote taken/recorded
RULES AND ELIGIBILITY COMMITTEES
A Rules and Eligibility Committee person must be an AHRMA Competition Member in good standing and must attend and compete in a minimum of 4 scheduled AHRMA Races in the perspective class in which they committee in a calendar year. (Dale Lavendar)
Committee Recommendation: No
Discussion: FG motioned to vote on the proposal, AN seconded
June Board: No (Unanimous vote)
SECTION 19 – FOR MORE INFORMATION
ELIGIBILITY REQUEST FORM
This form must be used for classes in which machine approval is a prerequisite. This form must be used when classification for a specific machine (including “one-off” examples) or approval of its individual components is required. Note that proposals for general machine (year/make/model) Eligibility Class changes must be made via the Rule Change Proposal Form (Section 19, page 132) during the annual period for Rules Change Proposals announced on the AHRMA.ORG web site. (Richard Colahan)
Committee Recommendation: No
Discussion: Administrative
June Board: This will be addressed on the eligibility form
13.3 CLASS AND ABILITY LEVELS
a) The number-four line is extremely simple and, except for Girder Fork and Rigid Novice competitors, is intended only for entry-level riders. If only three lines are used, number-four riders will ride the number-three line. (Curt Comer)
Committee Recommendation:
Discussion: Housekeeping
June Board:
Enter Comments/Questions Below
Regarding 10.2.5, entry 4152. I find it hard to believe I’m going through this again. Last October, after Barber, you voted in my favor to leave the Honda MR175 eligible for the 200GP Plus class. What changed? What is the reasoning? I have provided the technical specs. It is a like design model to the Yamaha CT1. Who are you getting your information from regarding the MR175’s capabilities as a roadrace bike? Bill Doran thinks the CR125M and MT125R parts (top end) will interchange with the MR175. They will not. He is misinformed. The MR175 was/is a slug. It will be a challenge to make it competitive. I just want to build a two-stroke. My son just wants to ride a two-stroke. As I stated last year, if the bike is too fast, I’ll gladly move it to 250GP. (Just for the record, my son does not want to race Formula 125.) There is currently a Yamaha YCS1 competing in 200GP and 250GP that has been gutted, the cases modified, and the cylinder hacked, welded and modified to more modern specs (not unlike the illegal cylinder on the Latimer CT1 that was allowed to compete in 200 GP). It is clearly 5-10 MPH faster on the straights. It should be moved up a class; clearly and ‘index of performance’ issue here. I want to build my son a bike to compete with this YCS1.
But here’s the rub, and I don’t appreciate it one bit. This is not about year of introduction or like design, it’s about fairness: adding a model and then changing your minds. When the MR175 was added to the 200GP Plus list of eligible models, I was excited to build a new race bike for my son. I bought a bike after a pretty exhaustive search. It was out of state and required even more time and money to acquire. I started accumulating suspension and brake components, engine parts, body parts, wheels, spokes, sprockets, etc. I did extensive research on frame geometry and began modification of the frame. Long story short: I invested a sizeable amount of money and time on this project, only to be preliminarily shot down by a misinformed vote. The build was back on after the October vote, but it took a back burner to building my new house which will be done soon. I planned to resume the project this winter after moving into my new shop. It is pretty remarkable AHRMA would approve a bike for a class and then yank it without any regard to whether or not someone was building that model.
It’s not fair at all to pull the rug out from under a member who only wants to add another bike to the grid. I’ll inquire once again. What changed between the October vote last year and the preliminary decision this year to reverse this? I need to know so I can decide if I should find something other than race bikes to spend my hobby money on.
I totally support the change, attached at the end of this note, as do 90% of the Motard class. I’m happy the board and rules committee have supported the change so far and I hope it follows it up with the official change.
This change will give our grid balanced performance index and allow the riders to race based on skill set not just horse power. The 701/690 have finished 16-24 secs ahead at the end of the races in 2019.
Please support this change.
10.15 SOUND OF SINGLES®
10.15.1 MACHINE ELIGIBILITY
d) MOTARD: Motocross, off road, dual-sport and Motard-specfic single cylinder machines of unlimited displacement. 2 Stroke Liquid cooled to 500cc, 2 Stroke Air cooled unlimited, 4 Stroke Liquid cooled to 570cc, 4 stroke Air cooled unlimited (Mike Harlowe, Sr.)
Committee Recommendation: Yes
Discussion: BL motioned to vote on the proposal, LC seconded
June Board: Yes (9 yes, 1 no, 1 abstain)
10.XX TWO STROKE CLASSIC GP. I am excited about the new class proposed by Carl Anderson, and I will participate with my 1974 tz350a. It is time that Ahrma finally has a (vintage) class for the most prolific, popular and successful production racers ever available to the public, during the 70s (and early 80s). I will be contacting many other liteweight 2t grand prix owners and will spread the word.
Rule 16.6: I guess I have the same comment on this rule as I do on rule 13.3. I wish AHRMA would reconsider. I have a KTM 125 and KTM 250 that are legal in Next Gen. With this rule the 125 will never leave my garage. I think Michael Carpenter has the same issue in Vintage, that being legal Sportsman 125 and Sportsman 250 bikes. Again, it is not clear what you are trying to fix, but the outcome will be to limit participation.
I urge the 10 AHRMA Trustees that preliminarily voted against Allen Wenzel’s Rule Proposal on Premier Light Rule 11.1.1 to reconsider voting for in at the fall AHRMA Board Meeting. The Montesa models proposed to be added to Premier Light are true Pre-1965 motocross motorcycles. They should be allowed to run in Premier Light, but it should be stipulated that they run their original “Blooie” style pipe. Adding these Montesa models to the Premier Light eligibility list is not going to result in a flood of Montesa all of a sudden invading and dominating this Vintage Motocross class. If we are lucky, we might see 1 or 2 of these early Montesa scramblers showing up for the first time ever at an AHRMA Vintage Motocross Event. Thank you.
Reese, Aren’t those pipes deafeningly loud? I have nothing to go on, have not seen anyone running one.
Carl: Yes the Blooie pipes are deafeningly loud. But as I’m sure you know, Blooie pipes are allowed on Premier vintage motocross bikes under the Rule 11.2 section. Over the years we have seen quite a few Premier Light participants in the NW region running Blooie pipes on Greeves & DOT’s.
Proposal to allow Keihin CR carbs in all Road Race Formula classes was denied. I find that decision to be wholly unfair. Under current rules a CB350/400 four cylinder can run Keihin CR carbs in F250, now the committee just allowed the 400 variant another over bore to 424cc. The committee just approved Keihin CR carbs in F750, all engines. Keihin CR carbs are allowed in F500 on a four cylinder engine but not a twin.? So in all Formula classes the only engine that can’t run Keihin CR’s is the Honda twin.
Kehin carbs were on Honda twins from 1968, the CYB350 and Yoshimura prepped bikes had them. There is plenty of evidence of that. There is no reason to single out the Honda Twin as the only engine that cannot use Keihin CR carbs. The committee likely unknowingly has given the 400f engine a huge advantage in the F250 class. The 350 twin should be able to use the same carbs as the other engines in the class.
Documents can be provided if needed.
The committee was concerned with preserving the remainder of the class which was originally intended as a 250cc formula. Adding more technology to the 350cc machines which have been dominating seemed counter to the original intent.
sorry Carl but the committee has given an advantage to everything but the 350 twin. A well built 400 four is going to make a mess of the class. Cant recall seeing a four cylinder in 1967-68 competing with twins. The committee gave every 2T engine an allowable .080″ over bore so they didn’t have spend money on cylinders. By the current rules I can put original Keihin carbs on at a cost of $1200 each when CR’s are $700 for the pair. A good 350 twin makes 45hp. A great one ~48. Keihin carbs offer nothing above that number. Keihins are period correct and have history of being raced within that period. They should be allowed. For me I also believe the CR’s to be safer where I can have a push/pull throttle.
Kevin,
What sort of power and weight would you expect in a well built 400 four? Perhaps the committee is underestimating this machine. I haven’t seen a dominating example, but I don’t study Hondas. Please educate the board on what you are expecting.
Carl, a legal 400f, I’d expect 52 minimum. A typical 400 that you can find parts for, namely the popular 488cc kit(illegal), 56-58hp. the factory 6 speed trans and ability to ring its neck to 14,000 rpm are a definite advantage.
I have to agree with the comments made by Gordon McClellan, Tim Jackson and Richard Bryant with regards to rule 11.3. I feel that showing up to race venues and participating in as many classes as possible is not only helping fill out the gates, but is a way of thanking those who put out the effort to organize these events. Yes, we all invest a lot of time and money to be able to race around the track or fields., but why limit novices to only a few opportunities. That will discourage participation, and though participation in the NW region seems to be strong, other regions appear to have light turn outs based on national results. As Richard asked, was this thoroughly discussed as to the ramifications prior to being voted on? If I am going to travel great distances to pay to play in the dirt with friends, I want to race (play) as much as I can. I suppose I could move up to intermediate and enter multiple classes, eh?
11.3 MOTOCROSS RIDER GRADING SYSTEM
All AHRMA Vintage motocross classes are further divided into Novice, Intermediate and Expert categories. Novice classes are as follows: Premier, Classic, Sportsman, Open Age, 40-60, 60 Plus and Women. There are no displacement classifications in any Novice class. Novice classes shall not be combined with any Intermediate or Expert class. All Novice classes shall run in Novice only motos.
(Kelly Shane)
Committee Recommendation: No
Discussion: RP motioned to vote on the proposal, AN seconded
June Board: Yes (10 yes, 1 no)
I would appreciate an explanation on why the Board went against the Committee’s recommendation. Additionally, I feel consolidation of displacement classes, Early Sportsman Stock, 50+ and 70+ classes will discourage participation.
Related to Rule proposal 10.4.3A CLASSIC SIXTIES 650, which allows for the addition of 1970’s era Triumph Oil in Frame design into the class.
In my opinion this proposed rule change is not the spirit of the class and clearly provides an advantage to the racer on the later frame as it’s improved design handles better than the early frames.
It should also be noted that, per the rule book, this frame design was specifically called out as illegal in the class since it’s inception
I would appreciate an explanation as to the logic behind the proposal and why the June Board would override the committee’s recommendation.
Committee Recommendation: No
Discussion: BL motioned to vote on the proposal, RP seconded
June Board: Yes, provisionally for 2021 (Unanimous vote)`
Please advise,
Greg Tomlinson
Regarding proposed rule change 11.3, Gordon has a point. Most AHRMA Novices aren’t Novice by choice. It’s illnesses and/or injuries that inevitably slow down all of us who continue to race. Heck, I look forward to getting slower and slower as I age and someday being a 90+ AHRMA Novice out there trying to keep a 125 on the pipe. By that age, I might only have enough leg strength to kickstart a small-bore. Please don’t take the smaller displacement and Early Sportsman classes away from Novices. People restore bikes specifically to race these classes. Remember, AHRMA is about preservation. Inspire every skill level of rider to preserve all classes of vintage MX bikes. Don’t ruin it for us slow or soon-to-be-slow racers – which realistically friends is most of us.
As far as Novice-only classes and barring Novices from lining up with Intermediates or Experts, any Novice who is slow enough to get lapped by any of us Intermediates knows how to hold their line in my experience. And if they are that slow, AHRMA is showing them mercy by ending their moto a lap early – enabling them to race more classes in the course of a race day. That’s what it’s all about – maximizing opportunities for every level of rider to have fun on these great old machines that most of us raced when we were teenagers.
you let the mr175 stay in 200+gp give it so time…….if its to fast move it up…….its a great starter class and fun as you know what! NO SIX SPEEDS
Doesn’t make a lot of sense to exclude the MR175 from 200GP and not remove the CT-1 also. Almost the same bike just different manufacturers. Don’t see the point especially when the SL175 is still allowed also. Imho.
Rule 11.3: I wish AHRMA will reconsider taking away the classes from the Vintage Motocross Novices. Most of the Novices I know have invested significant money and time in acquiring and restoring multiple bikes. This rule will have a significant impact on us because most novice riders I know will have now wasted some of that time and money. For example, I have a Sportsman 500 and an Early Sportsman 500. With the new rule change, one of the bikes is useless and was a waste of money. Keeping the Past Fast will no longer apply to one bike, since it will now never leave my garage.
It is not clear to me what this rule is trying to fix. I can’t think of any Novices I race with that are beginner riders. Most of the Novices I race against have acquired injuries and/or other heath issues that prevent us from recovering our former speed. We have no problem being added in with other skill classes. I know how to hold my line and I have never caused a crash because I didn’t know what to do. The mind remembers, but sometimes the body forgets. If the intention of this rule is to get the Novices out of AHRMA Vintage racing, please just say so.
Regarding my earlier comment:
Rule 10.2.5: Proposed move of the Honda MR175 from the 200 Grand Prix Plus class to the Formula 125 class.
I mentioned the 115+ MPH Honda MT125R, a purpose-built factory F-125 bike that can exceed speeds of 115 MPH. The Yamaha TA125 is another purpose-built F-125 motorcycle that can run near 115 MPH. Both of these bikes rely on high RPM (12,000+) to achieve those speeds. There is no way an MR175 will rev that high and stay together. F-125 is the wrong class for the MR175.
There are four proposals I would like to address concerning Sidecars.
Arthur added to the mission statement.
Would you drop one word, Modern.
The Sidecar program encompasses both modern and vintage racing.
The other proposals are as follows.
The original rules were written this way because of the short description of each class and the proximity to each other.
10.10.1
(a) SC1 …. Reed valve prohibited
(b) SC2 …. Port valve only
(c) SC3 …. Port valve or Reed valve….
We made a point of stating both port & reed in this class because
re-phasing cams and changing stroke is allowed.
This is then repeated under the engine descriptions for each class
verbatim to avoid any confusion. The following are the rule numbers that referencing the engines.
10.10.3.1
10.10.4.1
10.10.5.1
Just a fun aside if you strike out Port valve & Reed valve in SC3 2 stroke you would have to push them. ????
Roger, What about rotary valves?
Carl, In my tenure on the committee rotary valves didn’t come up. I would have to research the issue a little. Off the cuff my feeling would be that the rotary valve would also follow the guidelines outlined for reed valves and become legal in SC3. SC3 is where and when technology started to take over in sidecar racing with a period of anything goes from 2 front wheels like today’s Can-Am Spider to car engines ultimately breeding the formula sidecars which have more car technology than motorcycle.
Roger, As far as performance indexing you might put rotary valves with the reeds. But in terms of history, they were used in roadacing prior to 1968. So…
IS it the intent of the rule changes to eliminate the 70+ class?
I do not understand the reasoning behind the proposal requiring black number plate backgrounds for Next Gen MX bikes. If you look around at any practice/race event, most “modern” bikes use white backgrounds, as the Next Gen rule currently requires. Making people change their number plates serves absolutely no purpose other than change for the sake of change. We are facing a number of challenges regarding attendance at all AHRMA MX events. The number one reason I hear from people who are vintage MX racers but purposely avoid our events is “too many rules.” I will sometimes take a minute to try to persuade them that 1) there aren’t an extraordinary number of rules, and 2) the ones we have are for a good purpose. If this move gets formally approved, I will be at a loss on both of these arguments. We don’t need unnecessary changes/tinkering like this to push more people away from our events.
Rule 11.1.5. Will this rule also effect the 100cc flat track class? Will the maximum displacement still be 123cc. Michael Collier AHRMA #1949.
Correction ! My son runs in the 200gp plus class. Not the formula 125 class. John M Fitzer
And now that Joe W. Koury and I are building MR 175s for the 200 gp plus class, It would be nice to get some sort of resolution before we both sink a lot more money into the builds.
# R45 John D Fitzer
I’m also building a mr175 for next years 200gp plus. I pointed out the exact merits of the yamaha ct-1 and its like design. I actually proposed the class adding the MR 175. And it was added. So when I read that Bill Doran was asking to change it out of the class that he runs in, into formula 125. I sure would like to know his reasoning. My son runs in that class on a SL175, I did not want to build a replica of his bike to race. So I asked and was given permission to build and race in that class. I believe that at 70 years old I probably will not be a big threat to the 200 GP class. But I like Hondas and wanted to be different. And with the help and guidance from Gary Braun and hopefully from Joe Kourey . 2 father and son duos will be in 200 GP plus. I’m not trying to call out Bill Doran, I just would like to know his reasoning ?
Fellow AHRMA members,
Rule 10.2.5: Proposed move of the Honda MR175 from the 200 Grand Prix Plus class to the Formula 125 class.
In 2019, the Honda MR175 was added to the list of eligible models for the 2020 season, a decision that was obviously based on careful consideration of AHRMA’s “like design models are also permitted” and “index of performance.” A proposal has been made to move it out out of the 200GP Plus class and into Formula 125 for 2021. Why was this decision made before there was even time for anyone to build an MR175-based race bike for 200GP competition? Did anyone consider there may be MR175 builds in progress? I acquired an MR175 earlier this year and have invested countless hours and several thousand dollars in a 200GP Plus class build for my son, Joe, to ride. He has no interest in racing the F-125 class.
What factors were discussed and weighed before making the decision to support the removal of this model from 200GP Plus eligibility? “Like design models are also permitted” certainly wasn’t a factor.
Text from Section 10 of the AHRMA Handbook, CLASSES, 200 Grand Prix Plus: “This class combines a variety of engine designs and displacements…” No, it doesn’t. There are Honda twins, a few Yamaha YCS1s and CT1s, with a Bridgestone or Aermacchi every now and then. Not much variety.
The MR175 is a clone of the 200GP Plus class-legal Yamaha CT1. The MR easily satisfies the AHRMA Handbook language: “Like design models are also permitted” and “index of performance.” The MR is only four pounds lighter, has a 4.00:1 primary drive vs. the CT1 3.90:1. The piston port, enduro-type engines have identical bore and stroke (66X50) and the same compression ratio. The gear ratios in the MR five-speed transmission are nearly identical to the CT1 as are top speeds in each gear when the final drive ratios are similar. Both motorcycles are old technology, mediocre-performance trail bikes.
The MR175 is a much better fit for the 200 GP Plus when you factor in AHRMA’s “index of performance,“ compared to the Formula 125 class. F-125 bikes are faster than 200GP bikes. F-250 bikes are faster than 250GP bikes and F500 class bikes are faster than 500GP motorcycles. The relatvely slow MR175 would be no match for F-125 bikes. One F-125 bike in paticular comes to mind: the 12,000 RPM Honda MT125R factory roadracer. It is capable of speeds in excess of 115 MPH. The MR175 is an 8000 RPM plonker. The MR175 top end will not fit on a six-speed Honda CR125M (motocross bike) bottom end nor will it fit on a six-speed Honda MT125R bottom end (due to the cylinder bolt pattern) which limits its performance potential. I believe this information was unavailable to the Board when they approved the proposal. I’ve raced both the 200GP and F-125 classes for years so I have first-hand experience with the speed and power required to be competitive.
One factor that may have been considered was the year of release, after the required December 31, 1968 cutoff. But there are several models of “like design/index of performance” motorcycles that are legal in the 200GP Plus class that were built after 1968, including 1973 models. This sets a significant precedent. And then there’s the questionable 200GP class legality issue of the Dennis Latimer Yamaha CT1. This engine uses a cylinder from a 1972 TR3 factory roadrace bike. This cylinder is not a “like design” component. Its “index of performance” in the class is questionable. The rules state “no Noguchi engine components” for CT1 models. The factory TR3 roadrace cylinder is potentially at least as effective, if not more, than an Noguchi cylinder.
We are curious why this model was dropped from the list of eligible motorcycles for the 200GP Plus class, ask you to explain your reasons for the decision and to please reconsider. We see no reason the MR175 can’t fit perfectly into the AHRMA 200GP “index of performance” and “like design models are also permitted” criteria since it is nearly identical in design to the legal Yamaha CT1. But most importantly, we want to expand the number of exotic, vintage machinery seen on AHRMA grids in a time when they are beginning to disappear.
Another eligible model also helps fulfill the AHRMA VINTAGE ROADRACING MISSION STATEMENT: AHRMA’s mission is to recreate and preserve the vintage era of roadracing, including the sights, sounds, smells and camaraderie. Many consider the 50-year time span–from the 1930s to the mid-‘70s–the golden age of roadracing. We recognize that the oldest of these motorcycles are the least available; therefore, only small numbers are likely to participate in most events, and some events may have no examples. However, AHRMA is committed to maintaining a venue to showcase these early motorcycles, no matter how few.
We want to contribute to this mission.
Thank your for your time and consideration.
Joe Koury, Joe W. Koury
Upon initial presentation of the MR175 proposal, I believed it would be a good fit in 200GP. Better photographs of the cylinder which I saw later show much larger transfer port area at the base than a CT1 or any other pre-1968 single that I know of. For this reason, I believe the MR175 is more akin to the 175cc singles allowed in F125, from the 1970’s time period. I support Bill Doran’s proposal ot move the machine to its correct period, and a class AHRMA is trying to grow participation in. Also, I question whether the CR125 six speed gearbox would be easy to fit into the MR175 case?
Regarding use of a TR3 cylinder on a CT1 motorcycle in a 1968 and earlier GP class, I refer to rule 9.7.1 “Major components may not be newer than the cutoff date for the class”. Cylinders are major components and a TR3 is not “like design” with a CT1.
The attached photo relates to the upcoming rule decision regarding placement of the MR175 Honda in F125 roadracing rather than 200GP. One major feature which I believe characterizes the MR as belonging to the 1970s when it was made is the transfer port area at the base gasket. This area became much larger in 1970’s machines compared to predecessors and allowed them to breath better. More rpm can be obtained in a modified engine (much more than the stock peak RPM) and thus more power made. For comparison I show the Yamaha CT1, which has one of the largest port areas on any two stroke in 200GP. As you can see, it is significantly smaller, and one could port until the cylinder walls were paper thin and still not achieve the area of the MR Honda. A base gasket from many of the other two stroke singles of 200GP class (e.g. Bultaco, Ossa) would show a much smaller transfer area still.
Based upon the above, I would concur with the recommendation that the MR175 Honda is more suited to competition in F125. A CT1 Yamaha can be modified to peak at 9500 rpm, so the MR175 should have no issues at 10K or more, making competitive mid 20’s horsepower typical of the F125 class.