Slaw Dog
SmarTop/Bullfrog Spas/MotoConcepts Honda will expand to a four-rider team in 2021.
Shane McElrath and Benny Bloss have signed with the team, joining holdovers Vince Friese and Justin Hill.
McElrath, who spent his 250 career mostly with TLD KTM before joining Star Racing Yamaha, pointed out of the 250 Class in 2020 and will make his 450 debut with the team next year. McElrath finished runner-up in the 250SX East Region this year and third in Lucas Oil Pro Motocross.
“I look forward to working with Shane as I think MCR’s top-level management and bike development team are going to allow him to succeed in what can often be a challenging period as a rider transitions from one class to another,” said MCR Team Owner, Mike Genova.
Bloss joins the team after on and off seasons with Rocky Mountain ATV/MC. He also spent time as a privateer.
“Benny’s display of speed and whoop strength in the final rounds of the 2020 season allowed us to see the raw talent he possesses. We feel the MCR program will allow him improved starts, which will help put him up front, and the speed he possesses will keep him up front,” said Tony Alessi, MCR’s Team Manager.
Former 250 West Region Champion, Hill, joined the team last year after time with JGR Suzuki, and will return for another year. Vince Friese, a long-time member of the team, remains onboard for another year.
“Justin displayed the commitment and hard work we expected to see last year, which showed in his speed, allowing him to secure eight top-ten finishes. We’re sure we’ll see an even higher-level from Justin in 2021,” said Genova.
The team, which has been supercross-only the last few years, said they are committed to participating in “some or all” of Lucas Oil Pro Motocross, should rider health and world conditions allow.
“Our mission in 2021 is to utilize the testing and development abilities of Vince Friese to turn the new model CRF 450 into a race-winning package for future seasons,” said Alessi.
Malcolm Stewart, who was on the team the last two years, recently announced a deal with Star Racing Yamaha.
Joey Savatgy, who spent last year with JGR, was seen testing with the team recently as well. His status for 2021 has not been announced.
Main image: MotoConcepts
