Team Babbitt's Tyler Bowers Leads in Points After AMA Arenacross Series Win at DCU Center
- 8 Mar 2013
When asked his thoughts on the new rules, team manager, Denny Bartz explained that he wasn't necessarily a fan of the inversion but suggested it would prove entertaining for the fans. When asked about two main events, he said, "I don't mind it, but it needs to be more laps; fifteen minimum." Referring to the team's expectations going into the season, Bartz continued, "We always try to win a championship. I think we have a solid program. Good support and products from all of our sponsors helps get the riders where they need to be." With confidence on his team's side, Tyler Bowers was the "man to beat" coming into the opening round. Taking an early lead in the main event, the rider quickly separated himself from his competitors. Bowers remained in front of the pack during the entire race and when the dust had settled was the clear winner.
As a two-time defending champion, Bowers was no stranger to taking the podium. When asked what separates the rider from his competitors, the team manager's answer was short and to the point. "He always wants to win and believes he can." Entering the second main event, fans and participants had the opportunity to get their first taste of the new inversion rule - the front row flipped giving bowers the last pick on the row. Although experiencing a reputable start, Bowers was plagued with a mistake, as he stalled his bike on the "whoops" in the initial lap. In turn, he fell deep in the field of riders. Bowers managed to muscle his way back to the fifth spot before the waving of the checkered flag, earning him the third spot overall for the night. The following and final night of the event brought with it another opportunity for Bowers to quench a burning desire to man a position on the podium. After a heated battle with his teammate in the first main event, Tyler Bowers made a pass with only four laps remaining. The rider never looked back and refused to let up, earning yet another victory.
Prior to the second main event of the night, the new inversion rule reared its ugly head, leaving Bowers in the back row. Adversity was no reason to give up though, and the rider began to pick off his competitors immediately at the dropping of the gate. Bowers methodically worked his way through the field and toward the front of the pack. He eventually took the lead, a position he managed to hold until crossing the finish line. It turned out to be a good weekend for Bowers and Team Babbitt's, as he took three of four main events and would head into round two of the series the overall points leader. Although Tyler Bowers practically took all of the marbles on the opening event of the AMA Arenacross series, fans will notice two new faces that will be representing Team Babbitt's in 2013 as well. When asked if the addition of Zach Ames would prove beneficial this season, Bartz said, "Yes. He's always had the speed, but maybe lacked on his confidence and ability to pass. But he's improving in that area." Referring to new team member, Tyler Villopoto, Bartz continued, "Tyler came into the season injured. I think it had affected his performance still, but he's improving as well." Touching on the key to success throughout the remainder of the 2013, Bartz was quick to point out that with the points starting over during mid season, nothing more than one bad motto could lend to a position less than the championship. That in mind, the team understands the importance of keeping their bikes in pristine mechanical condition. With full intentions of keeping the internal components of their engines contaminant free, they depend upon K&N products. "Maintenance is very important," explained Bartz. "At the level these bikes are ridden, it's important to stay on top of everything. This is our eighth season to use K&N air filters and oil filters," he continued. "And we have shown a one-half to three-quarter horsepower gain on the dyno." With proper maintenance, proven riding skills and an eagerness for victories, Team Babbitt's is anticipating a stellar 2013 season. When asked what fans can expect throughout the remainder of the season, Denny Bartz concluded, "Good results week after week and hopefully another championship!" Find K&N products for your vehicle using the K&N application search then use the K&N dealer search to find a K&N dealer in your part of the world. |