The race for the Russian Grand prix was orange because all four victories in the MX1 and MX2 classes went to KTM protégés Tony Cairoli and Jeffrey Herlings. The other KTM riders also put in an excellent performance, as did Desalle (Suzuki).

Current world champion Tony Cairoli, who rides a KTM 350 SX-F equipped with an Akrapovič exhaust system, ensured a celebration after two races in the MX1 class by winning twice: “I like the track when it’s rough like it was here, it suits my riding style. Yesterday it was raining and I thought we would have another wet GP but today was great, the track was dry and there were many lines. I got two good starts in both races and it was fun to be fighting with my teammate (de Dycker).”

Both times he was joined on the podium by Ken de Dycker (KTM) and Clement Desalle (Suzuki), who’s 20 points behind the leading Cairoli in the overall standings. Their bikes are also outfitted with Slovenian exhaust systems.

In the competition in the MX2 class, held to the roar of 250 cc four-stroke engines, victory also went twice to a KTM rider with the red scorpion on his exhaust pipe. After the race, Jeffrey Herlings said: “I’m very happy, my riding was good and I took two holeshots. That’s what I wanted to do. I managed both times so that made it easier for me. I made eight more valuable points and I now have a 50 point lead over Tommy [Searle]. I know anything can still happen, but with five GPs to go things are looking good.”

Jeffrey, you’re right—anything can happen. We’re keeping our fingers crossed that it’ll be good!

The next race will take place on 5 August in Loket, Czech Republic.

Photo: Archer R., Suzuki Racing