Order your MAddOG Hoodie now....

The new Hoodie is now available for order !

Visit us at http://www.maddogmorrellmotorsports.com/MAddOG_Gear.html

To pre-order yours today !

Christmas Valley Ride 11/11 ......

This was a LOT cooler with the soundtrack, but could not get YouTube (communists) to approve my music.

Email me through the website if you want me to e-mail you the video with the soundtrack.

New Elka Stage 4 RZR vid...

Giving the ELKA Stage 4 equipped RZR a little test

OK people ! After bolting on the stage 4 ELKA shocks and having Tony from ELKA take the time to tune them at Dunefest, The results are in ! These things are amazing ! They soaked uphill flat landings up like nobody's business and we were able to get the G-OUT at the transition on take off down to a minimum.

ELKA suspension gets 2 thumbs up from us, You should order a set and see for yourself !

Video done with GoPro® HD Helmet HERO™ Camera, at Christmas Valley Sand Dunes , Oregon.
Many thanks to: Kelly , MUZZYS, GoPro, The Motoshop, ELKA Suspension, Stuck on Racing Graphics.
Special thanks to our new video producer Christopher Neumann.

Christmas Valley Dunes : An 11,000 acre sandbox to ourselves...

     What? Riding in Central Oregon in November? ... at 4300 ft? ... in an area called Christmas Valley? Are we nuts ? Well maybe, however the dunes in Christmas Valley are worth it ! Not too far of a drive from home (approx. 125mi.), and no huge mountain passes to scale, make Christmas Valley Sand Dunes a good winter option to hit the sand .

      Leaving Friday afternoon, with a goal of getting to the Junipers campground by dark, would give us time to get set up and be ready to hit the dunes first thing Saturday morning.
     Yes it was risky, since last year we fought a major snow storm on the way out Saturday morning (day trip), and very wet sticky, power robbing sand.
     But, I thought,  it would be a great opportunity to see if the new MUZZYS pro series exhaust made as much difference as I thought it did on bottom end wheel speed and, I knew there would be no one there and that would provide the chance to tinker with the ELKA Stage 4's on the RZR, in virgin sand on bowls, transitions, and hip kickers, without attracting a crowd. Usually if there are people around, the Team Green MAddOG BruteForce and perfectly, completely Black RZR attract some attention.
     Getting up Saturday morning to low teen temperatures didn't curb our enthusiasm , however , it did slow us down a bit. Big fire going for the ladies, big pot of coffee perked and most of it gone, must be time to suit up and hit the dunes. (Extra long-sleeve under the ballistic jacket and my thigh length MSR riding socks).
     We get the BruteForce and RZR warmed up and head out into the dunes. The sand is clean of all tracks, and on the first hit of the throttle, I realize it is a lot fluffier (that's right fluffy-ier) than expected on the top 3-5 inches than I expected, and the Terracross HD radials won't grip at all (to much tire pressure, DANGIT) and I am sliding all over. A quick trip back to camp to reset tire pressure (ended up with 3.5lbs frt. and 2lbs rear) and the Terracross HD's are hooking up and pulling the front end. I do notice a burble from the engine just off accel and kind of a flat spot through the acceleration "circuit". We climb some dunes and than head to the big bowl to run some hangers.I have to stop, pop the seat and make a couple of fuel adjustments to the MUZZYS  Digi-Tune (I leaned out the idle/cruise and brought the overlap down on acceleration)that cured the problem.
      Kelly runs the RZR from one end of the cirque like bowl to the other about 3/4 ways up and I try to run it at the same level but the sand is so soft it is breaking away and sliding down from his tracks, so I lower my line and finish out the bowl. Kelly makes another run in the RZR and runs it right at the top of the razorback in the flat! It is always so impressive to watch a run like that. We make a couple more runs across the face and than peel off and head East, running across the hard pan between the dunes, it  reminds me of a get off about 10 years ago riding my ATC350X, that destroyed one of my favorite helmets (an AXO RX-5).
     The hard pan between the dunes at Christmas Valley are really hard, with cheat grass "humps" and small to medium washouts, Due to the pumice/alkali sand and low amount of moisture and large amount of sun the area gets. Don't get me wrong it is fast and fun ! you just have to be on your game to ride it fast.
     Running to the East boundary the sand changes to a more dense compact, but still not wet, sand. The traction is incredible and we find a couple really fast trails to run through that head over towards the north boundary. These trails are fantastic, cutting through grass small bushes and up and down small dunes, we cat & mouse back and forth for a few miles of trails and end up at the dune looking down on the Lost Forest campground. "Hey there is someone as stupid as us" Kelly remarks, we both chuckle and look at which direction their tracks lead, Than we head the other way. Kelly has been coming out here for almost 20 years and for a "kid" he knows these dunes. We head over to "the jumps" , They are smooth downhill approach 15 to 20 foot razorbacks that usually have a pretty solid front, with a slight uphill landing. Kelly runs the ELKA equipped RZR at one of them at a fair speed and pops the top nicely, I run the BruteForce at one in a little different location and G-out the stock rear suspension right at the base, pop the top and flat land. OK I'm good to watch. Kelly makes another approach with more speed in his same spot, as he launches sky-ward I notice a lot of sand pouring from the rear, I look at the takeoff and see where the rear has had a G-out bottom-out, he uphill flat lands from way up and out and the Elka Stage 4's soak it up masterfully. We make a very slight adjustment to lessen the G-out, but know we can't stop it due to the angles involved. Another very fast run, still G-out on approach, Big air and distance, and big landing, The ELKA Stage 4's are amazing !
     We decide to head back and warm up some, o yeah it is still in the very low 30's, the trip back is fast since we are familiar with the conditions from our run out. We hit a combo of trails small bowls and big climbs to get back, getting a fantastic combo of sand conditions all the way back to the campground.
     Ride 2 and Kelly decides to give his TRX450R a ride. We had to replace an engine case about a month ago because of the 15 shot + of nitrous he was hitting it with (it is a 488 big bore with a 3mm Powroll stroked crank) so this would be a good test. We head out and run to the south boundary , running over some big dunes and through some gnarrly flat runs that are short but fun. There is a trail that runs right by the boundary line at the south end, it has rollers, chop jumps, some very small whoops but it is FAST and straight ! And we hauled A## almost to the west boundary, turned around and hauled back past where we caught the trail to begin with before stopping to discuss how the 450 was running (not great according to Kelly, although he walked away from me at 57mph,although I did hear it stumble in mid range accel. turned out to be a carb issue) and warm our freezing hands. We decided it was time to roll back for lunch, and headed back running a lot of  side hill loops on the dunes all the way back, what a BLAST !
     Ride 3 for me was leading my wonderful wife out and into the dunes for her first time ever ! Was very slow for me but she did a great job piloting our old TRX250X on paddles over 1 small dune and up on top of a big one. At that point she was cold and ready to head back, so we did. One of the great things about Christmas Valley Dunes is the variety in riding available, sometimes all on the same dune. After getting wifey back safe, I grabbed the Go Pro snapped it on my helmet ( forgot it earlier) and headed back out to meet Kelly .
     I railed back out into the dunes and climbed some big stuff and even jumped a couple times, goofing off and looking for the black RZR, I saw something way east that looked like a SxS, pinning the throttle and heading east with big slowdowns at the top of every dune ( because of the wind it isn't a great idea to run wide open west to east, there are some huge razorback drops) I finally realize the SxS is not Kelly in the RZR  so I run back along the north boundary  through trails and washouts and grass making my own trail in some areas finally heading south to the top of one of the bigger dunes so I can see better. Kelly must have had the same idea as withing 30 seconds here comes the RZR. He tells me he just got done riding the "loop", a trail that basically completely circles the dunes at the boundary lines.
     We headed back to "the jumps" to get some decent video and than decided to head back to warm up, the trip back turned into a  race and challenge as to who had bigger cojones,  we ran everything from sandy trails to
high bowl runs and hard pan flats, Kelly beat me due to a series of uphill jumps , one right after the other ,3 or 4at least,  that the ELKA Stage 4's on the RZR soaked up like nothing, while I had to kinda regroup after the second one and get the rear of the Brute back under me .
     After getting warmed up a bit we decided it was time to make dinner (bacon cheeseburgers, O yeah) and during the process of cooking it started to snow and get dark. The snow kept up until bedtime dropping a total of about 2 inches.
     Getting up in the morning and talking about riding we decided that we wouldn't take the RZR out sunday morning because it was so wet and snowy, and Kelly had to haul it in his toy hauler. I warmed the BruteForce  up and headed out to get some photos of the snow covered dunes, the temptation to run hard and hit some big stuff was killing me, but I didnt have on all my gear and was not going to risk it. So I got some good pictures and video of the snow covered dunes and headed back to "clear the snow" from the entrance road to the campground because there are a couple pretty healthy cambered corners. We loaded up had another pot of coffee started to plan the next trip, and headed for home.

      As A sub-note :   
                            The dunes themsevles are constantly on the move due to high desert shifting winds, so it is a good idea to take a cruise around and kinda get a feel for the conditions, before pinning the throttle and just going.

     As a general rule the dunes tend to razor back on the east side so going east to west is a good direction to get an idea of what is out there.

Sitting on the "spine"

Snow covered dunes at Christmas Valley

    

Mobile upload test 1

Land use closure .. Here we go AGAIN ...

     Here we go again people ! Deschutes county , Oregon has decided based on "anonymous" complaints, and the "inspection"  of 1 person to attempt to close over 200 hundred acres of public land.

     You may contact the "inspector" and the county @ teresa.rozic@deschutes.org  , or the board of commisioners @ board@deschutes.org  . We have and recommend that ALL of our fans and friends do the same, DO NOT let them close our PUBLIC lands ! Plug their system and let them know how you feel.

Advice is FREE ... Experience is NOT ...

     Sitting and talking with a long time friend, and fellow enthusiast / rider, we sip our Monster Low Carb and talk about general topics, his bike, riding, some new mod's we have both done, going to the gym, his latest over wheelie and the resulting bruises (ugly to say the least), my busted up knee, Donjoy custom braces, the list goes on to last years Baja and Day in The Dirt, and than slips into a dark area. The deaths of Marco "Super Sic" Simoncelli, Dan Wheldon, and Rick and Jeff Huseman and the risks involved with what we choose to do for fun or a living, and, like a holeshot quick shift, on to the feeling we get when we are "on the edge", "pinned and hung out", or "on the limiter and looking for more".

      We call it a trip, a rush, an irreplaceable mental charge that is only achievable when we are "in the zone", of course covering the last time we felt that way and how good it was, and how great the next one will be, how far we have to push past our comfort zone to get there, fleeting into how we know what the real risks are  and how apparant that has been in recent times, and off to how "alien planet" it was to be passed by a trophy truck in the dark at Baja last year, on to helmets and some new designs, how one on my trophy shelf used to be his.

     The conversation flows into our kids, how our oldest ones have unfriended us on facebook, how his youngest is a senior, and my youngest are freshman in college, as we talk deeper about our kids, their accomplishments and how much we love them, both of us began to tear up, our voices crack as we discuss the "tough times" as well as the good times. The emotion on our faces and in our voices is about as subtle as a neon green billboard. WAIT ... WHAT ???  We show emotion ? Where was it when we covered the recent deaths in our industry ?

     You see, our general "type" , steers away from thoughts of mortality, away from hospitals, away from doctors, away from what could happen. We don't live there.

    However we are there for what we believe to be  the most important, our family, our friends, our "little" girls or boys. That is where we show emotion, that is where we are open and raw. Sure mortality exists, but, it is not a focal point,  we do not grieve well. 

     We are saddened by the loss of some great and inspirational drivers/riders/builders and racers in the last week, we are saddened for sure, we know what the risks are, we do not grieve.

     We cover some close calls, really close, like having to be revived close, and laugh about the titanium plates and screws, and how funny our X-rays look. Our friends call us crazy, insane, fearless, machine-like, cold, and sometimes just plain stupid. 

    Truth is we are not feeling-less, we are not machine-like cold, we are not crazy, or any other adjective our friends use. 

     We have learned through experiences; bad ones, painful ones, serious ones, and  good ones. To put in the front of our minds what makes us tick; first, our love for our kids and family. Second, the "rush" we get when riding or risking. Sure somewhere in a very small cell, in one of the rear lobes of our brains, under lock and key  there is a thought of  "what if" or "this could happen". The cell opens once in a while for a gut check, but for the most part stays locked away. 

     We choose to focus on the good, fueled by feelings of those that count in our lives and what we can do to help them, or show them how much we appreciate them and let them know how much they mean to us.

     Our experience has taught us what matters, family, kids, loved ones, friends, and of course the charge, the feeling we get doing what we love. We know the dark side exists, we know things can go bad, we see our heroes pass, we wish them GODSPEED, we feel horrible for their families and friends. We do not grieve, we do not put ourselves mentally in their spot. We are saddened for sure, but, we do not grieve.

     Our advice, is if you choose to ride, race, live  "on the edge", make sure you know what makes you "tick", let the ones you love know how you feel, show emotion, be true to yourself, and don't be afraid to "gut-check"  once in a while, whether you are riding, racing, talking to your kids, or hanging with your friends.  

     

Early morning ride at DUNEFEST 2011

Gotta love the thick cool air at the coast ! The Brute Force was making sick power ! Pulling the front end is more impressive when people realize you are not running paddles or 4x4. Many thanks to MUZZYS , The Motoshop , Stuck on Racing Graphics , GoPro Hero HD , Troy Lee Designs.

MUZZYS RZR900XP

     We had the chance to test a new RZR900XP in stock trim and than install a MUZZYS exhaust system and DigiTune, and retest.

     The RZR900XP is a pretty impressive machine in stock trim and kudos to POLARIS for building it. The pure grunt this thing displays in stock trim is very impressive, it pulls hard all the way to the top, it handles better than any other stock machine I have driven, and is a very capable dune machine, with the exception of the stock XP tires (which are horrible, don't fret though as the new models are going back to the BIGHORN's). POLARIS put together a nice performing, powerful yet mild mannered UTV, and did a great job, and judging by all the 900XP's at DUNEFEST 2011, the enthusiasts are snapping them up.

     We ran the 900XP (supplied by Polaris of Portland, thanks Casey,) in stock trim and than installed the MUZZYS performance complete exhaust system and DigiTune Pro. WOW ! WOW! WOW!  The sound when we fired it up let us know we had unleashed a monster ! Without being so loud you couldn't talk over it,  The deep rumble at idle and sweet tone at rpm is enough to make any motorhead start to sweat and quiver. As we backed out to head out into the dunes you could immediately notice the snap the system had added. The throttle response was much quicker and much more aggressive. After a couple runs to dial in the DigiTuner, we went for it ! A simple snap of the throttle let us know this was nowhere near the same machine and the roll on throttle response was immediate, even at 45mph it would set your helmet into the headrest. 

     The overall acceleration and snap was very noticeable in every situation, and really impressive running the rollers at speed, it would blow the tires off every time the suspension was unloaded.

     The team at MUZZYS has done a great job on the POLARIS RZR900XP system and DigiTune Pro. The system is easy to install, looks awesome, sounds even better, and makes a huge difference in performance.

     Many, many thanks to Polaris of Portland and Muzzys Performance for allowing us test the RZR900XP and the MUZZYS system and DigiTune, What a combo ! When I close my eyes I can still hear the sweet rumble...

Washougal 2011

Getting ready, Washougal 2011

     Had problems uploading photos, but better late than never ! All photos courtesy of Bolt Speederman of N2MOTOPRISES.

'74 Mugen Honda 125

Vintage display

250 Start Moto 1

Dungey catching air.

A BIG thank you to N2MOTOPRISES Bolt Speederman, for the updates and photos.

Bolt Speederman for N2MOTOPRISES reports moto 1 results Villapoto . Dungey than Canard

Villapoto leads moto 1

TODAYS LESSON .... Maintenance ...

     My customer called me and said his grand-kids' POLARIS Sportsman 90 had a problem with the rear brakes not working. Upon drop off the Sportsman had been a victim of zealous kids riding in the edge of the surf at the Oregon dunes... Last fall. This summer the brakes don't work.
     Upon tear-down I found the rear drum seized to the axle with rust and the entire rear brake system seized from saltwater. After several attempts to free the brake drum it did, Break that is, I ended up cutting the brake drum hub off the axle. Fortunately for the customer I was able to save the axle and brake shoes and springs. When talking to my friend from POLARIS (while ordering a new drum $90), I learned that POLARIS didn't use anti-seized on any of the mini rear axle parts.
     So ... I would recommend that those of you that have any mini or drum brake ATV pull the drum today, and after every couple rides, clean and lube the axle shaft, as well as, any friction spot on the brakes, and the slider surfaces of the shoes. We use a lube that is specifically designed for drum brakes, and works great.
     This is a quick job that can save a lot of time and money, and, You wont have to hear the kids, day after day ask, "When is the quad going to be done ? and why is it taking so long ?"

Mobile upload system test 1

Mobile upload system test 1

Do you GoPro ?

     
     If you don't you SHOULD ! This will be a long term product test and evaluation, and after an initial test I love the GoPro HERO HD.
     Attaching it to just about anything is as possible as your imagination limits you. It is so easy to use I didn't have to have my daughter set it up for me, and the picture and recording quality is truly AMAZING ! The GoPro HERO HD's patented sound recording system is incredible, and really does all they say it does. (you can't even hear the wives yell at us when we got the camera underwater)
     The following video are some short clips taken fathers day. The GoPro HERO HD is attached to the side of a Hunter 21, sailboat, approximately 1 foot above the waterline.
     Some things to take notice of : 1) The only noise you hear is the water (no wind, no talking, ect.).
                                                    2) Take time to notice the panorama from the wide angle shot, and the definition of the reflection in the side of the boat, as well as , the water droplets on the side, and the water vortex when under water, and the clarity of the mountains and shoreline in the distance.
     I can not describe how pleased I am with the GoPro HERO HD on this its "maiden voyage". Watch for further reviews and evaluations as I get it into a little drier off road situations.

To My DAD

     Gene "REV" Morrell ; Preacher, Missionary, Teacher, Inspire'r, Example, Racer, Builder, Fabricator, Instigator, Problem solver, Son, Father, Brother. You are your fathers son, Thank you "Pop". With the greatest Respect, Happy Fathers Day !

GoPro and MAddOG join forces

    We are truly proud to welcome GoPro to our team of associates. All of us at MAddOG Morrell Motorsports look forward to producing some exciting video for all our fans.
     Thanks to the great folks at  GoPro for coming aboard and helping us share with our fans.
     For more information on the GoPro HD set up go to our website at, www.maddogsgarage.com
   

WHO'S KICKIN' YOUR GASS ??

     Who or what has control of your fuel injection system ? Is it right for your application ? Or is a generic fuel map in a box, that sorta, kinda works...  a bit ?
     After a long term test of the MUZZYS Digi-Tune (3 years and 2 generations of tuner) I can tell you, MUZZYS Digi-Tune controls my fueler, and always will !
     If you have ever had to "program" a cell based fuel controller you will love this. The Digi-Tune is pre programmed for your Fuel Injected ATV or UTV (or road bike for that matter). The programming is done from real world tests and Hours of Dyno runs. The Digi-Tune is a load based tuner (more on this later), that leaves you in control of the fine tuning and is so EASY to use, you will overthink it to begin with.
     The system installs easily , even on my KAWASAKI Brute Force, it looks clean when installed and is weatherproof.
     Adjustments are made via 3 buttons (+ , - , and Mode) and installed in the right spot are completely adjustable on the fly, although, once set, adjustment is generally not necessary. Need to add a little or drop a little fuel ? It is this easy... Start engine, press mode button until you get to desired mode (on my cvt model I have 3 modes, Idle/cruise, Acceleration, Wide open throttle) press the + button to increase in 1/2 step increments, to decrease press the - button. THAT'S IT ! You are done, ride and enjoy the added performance.
     The load based tuning programmed into the MUZZYS Digi-Tune does all the complex calculations and mapping for you, from stock to the baddest big bore out there. Here is an excerpt from MUZZYS on load based tuning :
                  "The Digi-Tune ushers in the latest in tuning science – gone is the old throttle position and RPM (Alpha-N) based tuning, replaced by a powerful and highly effective LOAD BASED tuning methodology. Load based tuning is superior to old school systems because different gears place different loads on the engine. RPM and throttle position based systems cannot tell the difference between first or fifth gear. The Digi-Tune knows the difference and adds the proper amount of fuel for every gear, every situation."
     Being a "Veteran" of the Digi-Tune, I have taught many, many people how to use their Digi-Tune, with always impressive results. I recall helping a gentleman at the dunes, 30 seconds made the difference between getting his RZR-S half way up (and chuckles from his friends) and cresting the top with a roost from the rear wheels !!  After 3 years I have not experienced any failures, or problems with my tuners despite the fact that mine is mounted under my seat and takes a bloody beating.

     The MUZZYS Digi-Tune is EASY to use, EASY to install, EASY to monitor, and RELIABLE ! You don't find that everyday in ATV / UTV electronics.
     I am so confident in the MUZZYS Digi-Tune, that if you need help setting yours up you can contact me through my site www.maddogsgarage.com and I will assist you in setting it up.
     You can order your Digi-Tune From www.muzzys.com

IT'S THE WATER ...

     That is the proclamation of Crystal Crane Hot Springs Owners, Denise and Dan Kryger. They are ABSOLUTELY  RIGHT !
     And after having a few comfortable conversations with Dan, about their vision and goals for the natural hot springs future and future possibilities, I feel good. In todays rat race, it is nice to find someone that recognizes people (including himself) need to unwind and enjoy themselves.
     The hot springs itself is a large natural pond, fed by 2 separate hot springs that range from 150 degrees to 180 degrees. They have a complex but simple water cooling system to bring the temp down some before feeding it into the pond in a couple separate outlets (one through a rock wall with sitting ledges). The water is incredibly good therapy for the body and mind.  The hot springs pond temp. remains between 97 & 100 degrees and has enough healthy minerals to keep a geothermal scientist completely "absorbed".

The panoramic view is amazing.

         Accommodations include 4 rustic cabins, a bunkhouse with mini kitchen and restroom, an apartment that is huge ( and reasonable) with many bedrooms and full kitchen and bathroom, a ranch house, several full hook-up RV sites, and a tent/dry camping area. There are several private soaking tubs you can rent by the hour (which I recommend) and every bathroom, soaking tub room, and shower is spotlessly clean.

RV sites 

     The staff exudes The Kryger's vision of customer service and friendliness, and works very hard to keep everything clean.
     I know ... where is the riding part ? well... that will be another article, after I have done some more research on the area close to crane. There is alot of open single track, and the Alvord Desert is a mere 60 or so miles away, so watch for upcoming reviews on riding the Oregon Outback.
     Crystal Crane Hot Springs is located 25 miles east of Burns, OR., and highway 20 directly on highway 78, and can be reached online at www.cranehotsprings.com .
     If you are anywhere in the area I would strongly recommend you stop in for the day, or more, and visit the therapeutic waters, and friendly staff.

GUIDES CHOICE ?

Spotted this Bobcat 2200s at Wholesale sports warehouse hitched to a guide truck. Pretty cool setup.

GIVING THEM THE BOOT ... Part 2 ... They have arrived !

      Took the ALPINESTARS TECH-2 boot for a test drive the other day. I chose them  based on need, ( I have to wear a brace on my left leg, and a full length boot wont fit over it) fit and comfort. After trying on several brands of lower cut boots, I was impressed with the feel of the inner liner and seriously impressed with the positive locking buckle system.
     The TECH-2 ALPINESTARS share the advanced polymer, positive lock, buckle system with their TECH-10 series, and I can tell you when they are latched and locked, they are LOCKED. The TECH-2 also shares the same structural strength , and double density out sole as their taller brothers, as well as, the anti-bacterial breathable liner. The advantage to the lower cut is it allows greater flexibility for riding ATV 's or Mini's, without sacrificing protection or support (and for me they fit perfect below my DONJOY brace).
     I wore them straight out of the box for a 30 mile test ride without blisters or discomfort. The latches (which I have found on other boots to be a problem) stayed locked and the upper hook and loop closure kept the dust and dirt from entering the boot.
     All in all I am initially very impressed with the TECH-2 boots. ALPINESTARS has done a fantastic job on the fit and comfort level as well as the buckle system. If there was any downfall to the TECH-2 boots I would say it would be the pricing ( at approx. $170.00 USD retail) It does put them at the top of the price range, however, worth it. The old adage holds true here "You get what you pay for". NICE JOB ALPINESTARS !
     This product test is going to be a long term test and further updates on how the ALPINESTARS TECH-2 hold up under many different conditions will follow.

They did it AGAIN !!!

     Yes the R&D and performance team at MUZZYS has done it again. This time with the gen2 PRO Series system for the Brute Force 750i.
     The PRO Series is designed for their 800, 840, 916, and 999 big bore kits, But I can tell you it works incredibly well on a basically stock engine also.
     I have had the base MUZZYS system on my Brute since it was new (they used it for R&D, I had the first one) and there has been some revisions since inception, Which included the whisper core(tm), improving power and torque every step. I do run the MUZZYS DigiTune fuel system controller to fine tune the way I like my machine to run.
     When we added the PRO Series ATV system, we weren't sure of the outcome on a stock engine, but wanted to make sure it would fit all years of the brute.
     Nevermind the fact that the system looks great, the fit and finish is beautiful and it is designed, tested, and hand built right here in the U.S.A. (Oregon to be specific), or that arguably the greatest 4 stroke crew chief ever, Rob Muzzy, supervises the R&D and the performance of every system, This system UNLEASHES the BEAST !
     With the whisper core installed and blowing a sub 99db. @ RPM the tone is still unmatched and adds a noticeable amount of bottom end grunt to the brute, with a quick stab to the throttle the front end will reach for the sky, even at 30+ MPH on the trails. The great thing is the power never stops until you reach top speed. There are no "flat spots", no bogs, no hesitations, Just POWER.
     The MUZZYS Exhaust systems are by far the best built, and in my opinion , biggest power builders on the market. The sound level without the whisper core is much lower than any other system out there, and with the whisper core, still build the power but increase the torque enough to take the holeshot every time.

www.muzzys.com

FIRST RIDE SINCE KNEE SURGERY

     Heading out to East Fort Rock system this morning. We have some new products to test like, the MUZZYS gen2 Pro exhaust system, and the ALPINESTARS TECH-2 boots.
     Watch for reviews on these products as well as the riding area.
     East Fort Rock, OHV system covers about 110,000 acres, with developed ATV and Motorcycle trails  (and some undeveloped). The skill level of the trails ranges from play areas with "training tracks" for the young ones to expert level, aggressive trails  with quick elevation changes and quick terrain changes. You can find any terrain you want from rock crawling to long stretches of sandy whoops. The elevation changes range from 4,400 ft. to over 6,400 ft. There are several staging areas and free camping, with firepits and tables, and public bathrooms (bring you own T.P.) in most staging / camping areas.
     The area is managed, very successfully , by the COHVOPS (Combined Off Highway Vehicle OPerationS).
   

FOR SOMETHING COMPLETELY DIFFERENT.....

      Oregon Raceway Park... Just sounds good doesn't it ? Let me tell you it IS !
     Drove out from the home base this morning ( about 2hrs.) so we did miss the first heat, however we were there in time for the 2nd. one. The competition was fierce, there was plenty of action, and let me tell you these guys are amazing ! Pulling speeds well over 100 mph at the end of the straight, 2 inches off the ground !!!  These guys, and ladies, are great drivers also, from drafting on the front straight to dodging slower classes in the corners, there were very few incidents and no injuries. Great job to the whole group ! Truly entertaining action.
     Now more about the track. Located in Grass Valley, Oregon, The racetrack is an approximate 2.3 mile (full length) road course, with lefts and rights and several elevation changes. The course is set in the hills of the Central Oregon high desert, and you couldn't ask for a more beautiful setting. Oregon Raceway Park could use some Grandstands and better viewing area for the fans, although I think with road race motorcycles or
Racecars you would get a better view (as the laydown karts are only a total of less than a foot high) but could use some grandstands or ability to get to the infield for better viewing. The track is well maintained and for the most part very smooth, even for the karts.
     All in all my first experience at Oregon Raceway Park was great. I attended the races with my dad (see history @ www.maddogmorrellmotorsports.com/history.php ) and older brother, Both of them veterans of many, many racing forms and tracks, and we all agree on Oregon Raceway Park... 1 1/2 thumbs up ! Add some grandstands and the ability for a fan to get to the infield and it would be a winner for sure !
     Many thanks for the hospitality and facility tour to Paul Clifton, 2004 I.K.F. regional road course champion.
   

GIVING THEM THE BOOT ......

     Today was supposed to be the day I review my new ALPINESTARS TECH-2 boots. Unfortunately the supplier sent the wrong size.
          I can tell you that I have owned several different brands of boots from ALPINESTARS, FLY, THOR, the list goes on. I have used different brands for Off road, motocross, road racing, drag racing, and ATV riding (primarily now i ride ATV's).
     Boots are a tough one to review because everyone has different feet. If your feet are not comfortable, though, you wont be a happy rider.
     To the meat, I remember my FLY boots because they were horrible, the buckles were cheesy and hard to get to stay snapped and the inner boot was like wrapping your feet in hard plastic, with ridges. The ALPINESTARS TECH-6, I had were great boots, however, did require alot of break-in.
     After several foot surgeries, the ALPINESTARS didn't fit my new foot shape. I tried on several pairs and brands and ended up with the THOR QUADRANT. Truly a fantastic boot ! Very little break-in required, the inner was padded just right, the buckles had some issues with staying locked, but with a slight adjustment they were fine.
     Now after a knee surgery and the addition of of the need to wear a brace, sadly my THOR QUADRANT 's would not fit with the brace in place. I decided to go to a half boot, after trying on the various options, I found the FLY to feel kinda cheesy, I figured the THOR would be a great fit but I was wrong. The inner was thin and the sewed seams were huge inside, the buckles were Questionable whether they would stand the test of time. The ALPINESTARS were by far the best fit and most comfortable inners, and had the nicest buckle system. I ordered the ALPINESTARS TECH-2 in black, based on, comfort, fit, buckle system, and style.

     I will be posting a full ride review on the TECH-2 when they arrive, but for now, hopefully my past experience will help lead you in a good decision direction.

LIVE FROM SEATTLE !!!

Kevin Windham takes 450 heat 2, followed by Villapoto and Dungy. The track is really rutting out and getting tough. Reporting by N2MotoPrises, Patrick Hemperley.

LIVE FROM SEATTLE !!!

     James Stewart grabs lead and finishes first by over 15 seconds in the 450 heat1 at Seattle. Chad Reed crashes and comes back for 7th.  Reporting by N2MotoPrises Patrick Hemperly.

LIVE FROM SEATTLE !!!

     Josh Hansen wins lites heat 2 on the MONSTER ENERGY KAWASAKI. Reporting by N2MotoPrises, Patrick Hemperley.

LIVE FROM SEATTLE !!!

N2MotoPrises Patrick Hemperely , chillin' in the factory HONDA GEICO pits, and checking out Josh Grant's ride for tonight.

LIVE FROM SEATTLE !!!

N2MotoPrises , Patrick Hemperly, Reporting live from the Seattle Supercross. This is the first 450 practice.

     This is a first for MAddOG Morrell Motorsports and we are very excited to be brining updates as we get them. Many, Many thanks to Pat !

TOERAIL OR TOE TAG ???

     As I think about a recent news story in our area of a child that was killed in an ATV accident, my heart was heavy, WHY? I thought , as I heard the parents publicly denounce ATVs and the industry.( of course, the anti ATV / UTV lobbyists were right behind them on "such a travesty").
      I began to research what had happened. When I learned the facts, my heart sank. This could have been prevented.
      Get to the point ? OK,  It turned out the pre-teen was operating the ATV (much too large for their size, and skill level)  in their own yard, and it had flipped over backwards on them. The child was not wearing a helmet, chest protector, boots, or any safety gear for that matter.
      Parents I feel for your loss, however, it is not the ATV industry's responsibility to stand sentinel over the parents to make sure they protect their children. I am a huge advocate of open riding anywhere, of kids riding ATVs , of fathers (or mothers)  and sons or daughters sharing the special times and places visited during a ride. I am also an advocate of proper safety equipment and training. not every death can be prevented by safety gear and common sense, but the unnecessary ones can be, without a doubt.
     Here are a few basic rules to follow ; We call it TOERAIL:
          1) TEACH your child proper operation of, and respect for,  the ATV they are riding.
          2) OUTFIT your child in proper safety gear, Helmet (not a cheapo piece of tupperware), chest protector (recommend a full jacket style), shoulder, elbow, and knee pads, boots, gloves, and eye protection.
          3) EDUCATE your child on the importance of proper gear and vehicle operation.
          4) HELP your child get into, and out of, their gear. Have them get ready at the same time as you so you can help them, make it a game who can get their gear on properly first.
          5) RULES, make it a rule, no gear NO ride. Set guidelines to follow when riding together, and make sure they are riding an ATV they are capable of handling. Supervise them and their capabilities, so you know what their limits are.
          6) ACCEPT responsibility for you and your child, from taking time to get properly ready to being a respectful rider. (we have all seen the kids doing donuts 3 feet from our hauler in the staging areas).
          7) INSPECT your gear every time before you even leave the house, and before every ride, and teach your child to do the same. Show them how to clean and care for their gear after the ride.
          8) LEAD by example, DON'T ride without your gear. Treat your gear with respect. Be a respectful rider.
     By following these basic suggestions, and using common sense, your family rides will be safer, less stressful, and much more fun.
     Lets face it folks, nothing dampens a ride like a trip to the E.R.. Especially if it's your child.
     The decision is yours TOERAIL OR TOE TAG.

GET A GRIP !!!

When was the last time you thought about your gloves, I mean really thought about all they do ? Gloves are the infantry of your gear, the first line of defense, there to protect and serve.

     Like any other saftey gear, you should evaluate their condition and the way they serve you on an ongoing   basis. Some things to consider; are they torn, do the wrist straps still fit tight, are the pads beat down flat, are the exo pads loose or worn ?     

     Sure the exo-skeletal padding keeps the impacts from branches, rocks, and roost from doing severe damage, and the palm and finger padding keeps the blisters from growing to the size of a softball, but the most important and least realized job they do is ... GET A GRIP !!! Like assist with the never ending task of holding on to the bars; wet, dry, rocks, dirt or mud they are there to help you stay "in the saddle".
     I have had many pairs and brands of gloves; IMPACT, FLY, FOX and most recently TROY LEE DESIGNS GP.
     The GP series have been the best gloves I have had, although the palm and finger pads tend to loose cushion after 6 months or so of riding, they have lasted longer than any other brand I have worn. I have had no sewing or seam failures, and no exopadding delamination or failure. The quality has been superb and the pricing is in order for what you get. The comfort is exceptional, and I have found that comfort = confidence.
      So I suggest you sit down and take a good look at what is on your hands. Then go try on a pair of the TROY LEE DESIGNS GP gloves. I think your hands will be impressed and so will you.

To See or not to See ..........

AFTER LOOSING MY FAVORITE EYE WEAR TO AN OVERZEALOUS PUPPY, the goggle search began.

     How tough could it be ? I mean in the 90's, When I  foundmy OAKLEYs, I tried them on and they fit perfect to my 

unusual nose and in my helmet. Sure they were 90's blue withwhite tiger stripes, but they had taken a beating for me, Rocks, Mud, Snow,and Sand, without a scratch, on them or my eyes.

     So the quest began. After trying on several different models of FOX, OAKLEY, SCOTT, SMITH, SPY and THOR. I went with the THOR ENEMY, due to their comfort and good fit on

my nose and in my helmet. 

     After a required helmet replacement (that's another story), I found the THORs just didn't fit right in the new helmet. A lesson learned, I took my new helmet with me this time to go through the process again.

     This time, since we were going into winter, I chose the SCOTT 89xi with rose amp dual turboflow lens. The fit was excellent, both on my face and on my helmet, and the clip-in snow/nose guard fit great and almost completely cut out fogging as well as kept the snow out of the nose/chin guard area. The only problem I have had is the dual pane rose amp lens scratches very easily on the inside. And I burned the foam trying to dry them out on the exhaust! I was so impressed that I bought another pair and a pair for Kendal.

     Another new helmet (this one by choice) and through the fit process again I purchased a pair of SMITH V2s. However, after a couple of rides the foam wouldn't mold to my nose and I couldn't get them comfortable in my helmet.  So back to the Motoshop and another fit process, ended up with a perfect fit in the SCOTT 89OTG. I started with light sensitive lenses and quickly realized in the blowing sand dunes they were worthless and dangerous as I couldn't make out any contours.  A quick switch to the rose amp lens and problem solved.  Since then, I have added my new favorite lens (shown top left) black chrome and also have blue amp with tear off posts and rose amp turboflow lenses.

     In my book the SCOTT 89 series goggles take the win in fit, comfort, helmet fit and lens choices, for the overall championship its the SCOTT 89 series for me and my team.

       

WELCOME to MAddOG's Blogs.

In the late 20’s, out in the great sand dunes of Colorado, my grandfather, R.B., spent his weekends and some evenings tearing it up and “teachin’ them boys some things” with his WILLYS Coupe first, and then a big speed up-grade (to 37 MPH) with his star coupe.
In 1936 my father was born, E.S. (Gene). He quickly inherited the genetic need for speed. He started out building hot rods in Southern California with some now very famous drag racers. Then he moved on to crew chief of a western grand national stock car team. An usual change of venue followed with a move to Alaska, where he built and raced flathead coupes on the local dirt tracks. My father stepped away from racing to become a missionary, working with the Alaskan Eskimo population, however, he never lost his need for speed and moved his interests to snowmobiles. After a move to Whitehorse, Yukon Territory, Canada in 1969, Gene continued his interest in snowmobiles and began racing his skidoo in a novice class. After a successful season, was chosen by Bombardier/Skidoo to be their factory sponsored racer. Having a few wins and very successful couple of seasons, he stepped out of racing to spend more time in his ministry. Also, while in Whitehorse, during the summers, he began to crew for a local dirt track racer, running in a few mechanics races as a driver and placing very well.
In 1965 I was born and also quickly inherited the family need for speed, proving that with driving my dad’s skidoo solo at 3 years old. Spending time in the pits at the snowmobile races and stock car races, my interest in all things motorsport led me to start riding and then racing dirt bikes at the age of eight. Having two older brothers that raced their friends all over the gravel roads of Yukon brought me to the realization that I was a very competitive person. As I continued to hone riding skills, another move to Southern British Columbia offered the opportunity to ride on the streets and race on road courses, moving my way up to the heavy-weight - at the time- the Kawasaki KZ-1,000-elsr; still one of my favorite rides of all time.
I moved to Puyallup, Washington in 1988 and almost instantly hooked up with a local speedway short track team. The team owner, Mike “Fast” Lane, taught me much about engine building, chassis and suspension dynamics and setup, roll cage design and manufacture, and competition.  Leaving the team after ten years and 15 car builds, several top tens in points, a rookie-of-the-year award, a crew chief of the year award, and putting Mike, his wife, daughter and niece all on the podium also, was very difficult, however, exciting, as I was moving to a regional traveling go-kart team as the crew chief and 50 % owner.
The first year with Karting we won nine of 16 races at our home track, (we were traveling and missed a few). We secured an overall second in the local points and rookie-of-the-year. We also had several wins at tracks in Region 5 and took the Gold Cup overall Championship for Region 5. We also placed very well (top 6) in three enduro time races on long road courses. We developed/used experimental parts and set-ups that no one else was using at the time with great success.
After two great seasons, we decided to move back into stock car racing as the traveling was keeping me from my new daughter. Building a new car in a brand new class was very challenging, but very rewarding, as we had several top tens and finished in the top ten in points the first year out. Celebrating the arrival of triplet daughters, I retired from racing.
Over the years of raising the family I have continued to do a few street bike builds, some chassis set-ups, some V-8 engine builds and most recently have started to build ATV/UTV engines and do some chassis conversions and set-ups on ATVs and UTVs. I have also taught one of my triplet daughters to appreciate riding ATVs (she is oddly competitive). I have done product testing for an ATV/UTV performance product manufacturing company. Presently, I have been testing and reviewing products and doing select engine builds.
I am not afraid to share my brutally honest opinions on products, suppliers and all things related to the industry. I support many venues and manufacturers, but always have a soft spot for my Kawasaki. If you want the truth about a product, either one you are thinking of purchasing or one you are building/supplying, just ask me to check it out. I will let you know what I honestly think.




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