(Sept. 5, 2024)–Brea, CA – As the dust settles on the AMA Pro Motocross season, Suzuki riders are gearing up for the high-octane SuperMotocross (SMX) World Championship. With a hybrid track design that requires the technical prowess of Supercross and the endurance of Motocross, the SMX World Championship will crown the ultimate rider. This format is designed to truly test riders, and Suzuki's lineup is primed for action.
SMX 101: Understanding the SuperMotocross World Championship
The SuperMotocross World Championship (SMX) is a unique format that combines elements of Supercross (SX) and Motocross (MX). The championship features three playoff rounds, with the top 22 riders competing on tracks that blend the best of both disciplines. Venues for this year’s SMX rounds include zMAX Dragway at Charlotte Motor Speedway, Texas Motor Speedway, and The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.
With a $10 million purse and the title of World Champion on the line, the stakes are high. Riders must adapt to the dramatic terrain changes on track, as well as competition that includes the best riders in the world. The SMX World Championship is more than just a series of races; it’s a battle for racing supremacy.
Ken Roczen (94) is back and ready to dominate.
Ken Roczen (94), a fan favorite and veteran rider, performed impressively in the Supercross season to earn his spot in the SMX Championship. Roczen enjoyed a main event win at Round Six of the Supercross season in Glendale, Arizona, and earned six podium finishes out of the 14 races he entered. Roczen’s Supercross season was cut short by an injury and as a result he missed several SX rounds and most of the outdoor season. However, with his runner-up finish in last year’s inaugural SMX Championship, being the only rider to stand on the podium at each of the SMX rounds, and his vast experience, Roczen looks to make a strong run at the title this year.
Kyle Chisholm (11) is a seasoned competitor and is ready for the SMX playoffs.
Kyle Chisholm (11) has earned his spot directly on the gate for the SMX playoffs, finishing 20th overall in the Motocross season. His consistent top-20 finishes highlight his strategic and disciplined approach, making him a formidable competitor on track.
Colt Nichols (45) is back on the bike and hungry for redemption.
Colt Nichols (45) joined the H.E.P. Motorsports Twisted Tea Suzuki team starting with the Unadilla National. As Nichols continues to work with the team to get comfortable on his fresh RM-Z 450 for 2025, he looks to gear up to compete in the last chance qualifier (LCQ) at each SMX round. Uncertainty in the beginning of the Motocross season left Nichols without a guaranteed spot for the SMX Championship forcing Colt to race his way into the championship.
Catch each of the SMX Championship rounds broadcast live on Peacock starting with the first round, this Saturday, September 7, at 11:30am PT. Peacock coverage includes Main Event races, qualifiers, and heats.
For more information, please visit SuzukiCycles.com/Racing/Motocross and HEPMotorsports.com.
Photos by BrownDogWilson
