Gariboldi Honda’s David Philippaerts is excited to reveal the bike livery for his home race in Maggoria, Italy this weekend, which is a close replica to the design used in the memorable Motocross of Nations event here in 1986 in which team USA, all American Honda riders, dominated in front of a massive crowd.
The American team of David Bailey, Ricky Johnson and Johnny O’Mara, which was managed by Roger De Coster, left its mark in the history books with outstanding individual performances, aboard the special Honda machinery. That particular race has always been known as one of the best in history, and is much talked about amongst the racing fraternity.
This weekend Philippaerts, who only lives 10km from Maggiora, will bring these memories alive again for many race fans, as he will ride a nostalgic replica version of the livery used at the race almost 27 years ago in the MX1 class this weekend. The former World Champion may have only been three years old at the time of the 1986 event, but his father was in attendance, and he has watched many videos of the special race, as well as heard stories from friends over the years.
“This is such a special event for me, as it is so close to my home, and I am so excited to race with this bike. It looks fantastic, and the Maggiora track is the best in the world. I have seen many races from 1986, and of course a lot of people talk about that special day when Honda and team USA really dominated the nations with their riders, so it is nice to bring those memories back with this bike as well as my beautiful helmet,” said Philippaerts
The graphics, which were devised by Team Owner Giacomo Gariboldi along with graphics sponsor Blackbird racing, as well as a specially built engine, will also accompany a special helmet that David will be wearing with a picture of that very event over the back of it and incorporating the Italian flag.