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Supercross & Motocross
SX LITES: The Burning Question - Can Barcia Be Stopped?
Justin Barcia has opened the Supercross Lites East Region two-for-two and this emerging superstar shows no signs of slowing down now.
(Photo: Honda Red Riders)
PROGRAMMING NOTE: Round 9 of the Monster Energy Supercross Championship from St. Louis, MO will air LIVE on SPEED Saturday, March 3 at 8:30pm ET. #SXonSPEED
The premier division of the Monster Energy Supercross Championship typically grabs the attention of the industry and beyond and deservedly so. It’s the showcase division featuring the most talented riders on the planet, and we also just happen to be in the midst of one of the most parity-driven eras of the sport.
However, while Ryan Villopoto, Ryan Dungey, and James Stewart lead the way as the championship continues to unfold, Justin Barcia is making some waves of his own on the undercard.
Through two rounds of the Lites Eastern Regional Championship, Barcia is a perfect two-for-two, with both wins coming at the conclusion of near-flawless efforts. Barcia has been a high-profile rider ever since he burst onto the scene -- a talent that many considered destined to become a superstar. He finished second in the championship in his first season of Supercross competition, and locked up his first career pro title last year, outlasting Dean Wilson to take the East Coast crown.
Now entering his third year at the elite level of the sport, Barcia has established himself as a flashy, brash, and captivating rider who occasionally pushes himself beyond the ragged edge. Similar to Stewart, Barcia often looks like he’s barely maintaining control of the motorcycle, yet he’s logging exceptionally quick laps in the process, proving that he’s simply getting everything he can out of the bike. His high-revving nature has become a defining trait of his on-track style, but the all-out approach has also landed Barcia in controversy.
Still in the early stages of his career, he’s already earned the nickname 'Bam-Bam' as a result of his tendency to make contact with other riders, frequently bullying his way into a spot. That style has made him a love/hate figure, both among the fans and his fellow competitors. However, in the end there is no arguing that the kid is driven to win and isn’t afraid to ruffle some feathers in order to achieve success. It’s an admirable mentality, but the reins ultimately need to be brought in somewhat if Barcia is to enjoy long-term success.
Last summer, Barcia had the opportunity of a lifetime, competing for American Honda in the 450 Class in place of the injured Trey Canard in the late stages of the AMA Pro Motocross Championship. He was instantly a podium contender and even managed to win a moto before the end of the season. During that tour Barcia learned a lot about what it takes to truly be a contender in this sport. On a 250, there's latitude to manhandle the bike a bit more, pushing it to its limits to make it submit to your will. However, a 450 demands respect -- as do the riders who compete on them -- and based on what we’ve seen so far this season, it looks as if Barcia has heeded that lesson and applied it to the 2012 season.
The premier division of the Monster Energy Supercross Championship typically grabs the attention of the industry and beyond and deservedly so. It’s the showcase division featuring the most talented riders on the planet, and we also just happen to be in the midst of one of the most parity-driven eras of the sport.
However, while Ryan Villopoto, Ryan Dungey, and James Stewart lead the way as the championship continues to unfold, Justin Barcia is making some waves of his own on the undercard.
Through two rounds of the Lites Eastern Regional Championship, Barcia is a perfect two-for-two, with both wins coming at the conclusion of near-flawless efforts. Barcia has been a high-profile rider ever since he burst onto the scene -- a talent that many considered destined to become a superstar. He finished second in the championship in his first season of Supercross competition, and locked up his first career pro title last year, outlasting Dean Wilson to take the East Coast crown.
Now entering his third year at the elite level of the sport, Barcia has established himself as a flashy, brash, and captivating rider who occasionally pushes himself beyond the ragged edge. Similar to Stewart, Barcia often looks like he’s barely maintaining control of the motorcycle, yet he’s logging exceptionally quick laps in the process, proving that he’s simply getting everything he can out of the bike. His high-revving nature has become a defining trait of his on-track style, but the all-out approach has also landed Barcia in controversy.
Still in the early stages of his career, he’s already earned the nickname 'Bam-Bam' as a result of his tendency to make contact with other riders, frequently bullying his way into a spot. That style has made him a love/hate figure, both among the fans and his fellow competitors. However, in the end there is no arguing that the kid is driven to win and isn’t afraid to ruffle some feathers in order to achieve success. It’s an admirable mentality, but the reins ultimately need to be brought in somewhat if Barcia is to enjoy long-term success.
Last summer, Barcia had the opportunity of a lifetime, competing for American Honda in the 450 Class in place of the injured Trey Canard in the late stages of the AMA Pro Motocross Championship. He was instantly a podium contender and even managed to win a moto before the end of the season. During that tour Barcia learned a lot about what it takes to truly be a contender in this sport. On a 250, there's latitude to manhandle the bike a bit more, pushing it to its limits to make it submit to your will. However, a 450 demands respect -- as do the riders who compete on them -- and based on what we’ve seen so far this season, it looks as if Barcia has heeded that lesson and applied it to the 2012 season.
SX Seattle
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