Pro MX training® is een motocross-training anders dan andere.

Honda

Honda's Xtreme Academy, a series of new 150cc big-wheel off-road racing championships launched last month, has received almost 100 applications and a emphatic endorsement from former world champion and renowned rider trainer, John van den Berk.

Since early December, young riders from all over Europe have been registering their interest for individual championships in a number of European countries, which will stand alone or be part of an existing series and will be solely for Honda CRF150 big-wheel MX machines.

The programme has been designed specifically to support and develop young riders aged 11-15. It will give them a chance to experience the excitement of motocross competition on a reliable, fast 4-stroke machine and to learn all about the sport – both on and off the track.

Every rider in Honda's Xtreme Academy will be given an opportunity to take part in a John van den Berk training school in Spain on a supported pricing structure. They will learn not only about riding, but also be taught key lessons in other important aspects of riding such as diet, fitness and nutrition.

Van den Berk himself, a double 125cc and 250cc world champion and MX des Nations winner, will also visit each country's championship during the season to monitor progress and hold Xtreme Academy master-classes based on his successful racing and training career. The Dutchman, who now trains a number of the worldʼs leading MX1 world championship riders at his Spanish base, believes that Honda's Xtreme Academy is the ideal way to develop champions of the future. “The CRF150 Honda is a great machine for young riders to learn exactly how to ride a 4-stroke,” he says, “and it is something that will benefit them throughout their career.”

“I will obviously be teaching many techniques including jumping, cornering, braking, body position and starting,” he explains. “Each rider will be reviewed by video evaluation, and we will also cover nutrition, physical training, diet etc. “All our winter training is based in the beautiful Malaga area of Spain,” adds van den Berk, “where I have nine tracks at my disposal. The Honda Xtreme Academy is something I am really excited about – to see the young riders progress from rookies on CRF150s to possible world championship contenders on CRF450s is going to be a real thrill.” Honda Europe's off-road racing manager, Roger Harvey, is delighted with the response to the Xtreme Academy. “The numbers confirm that there is a Europewide need for this level of competition on 150cc four-stroke machines,” he says.

“We're delighted to have John van den Berk on board,” Harvey adds, “and his vast knowledge and experience will really help the youngsters get the most out of the programme. The Xtreme Academy is gathering momentum now and we're looking forward to announcing full details of the participating countries and specific prize packages in the coming weeks.”

Young riders interested in finding out more about this exciting new opportunity can still register their details at www.hondaracing-eu.com/xtreme. Applicants will then be contacted by Honda when each country's championship details are confirmed.

1 week with John van den Berk: