News Release

Suzuki Men Stamp Their Authority

09 January 2012
Suzuki riders Cody Cooper and Scott Columb look unstoppable as the New Zealand Supercross Championships passed the halfway stage in Motueka at the weekend.

But it will be steady as she goes for national MX1 champion Cooper, even though he heads to the third and final round of the series in Taupo next weekend with a healthy points lead.

The Moto City Suzuki rider won the day at the second round just outside Motueka on Sunday, doing just enough to shade local favourite Josh Coppins, the former GP star making his first appearance in the championship and therefore possibly with no chance of re-taking the crown he won last season.

Cooper rode sensibly to win the opening round near Timaru last weekend and it was more of the same at Motueka on Sunday as he stretched his championship lead over nearest rival Justin McDonald, of Christchurch.

McDonald finished third in each of the open class races as Cooper and Coppins battled ahead of him.

“I only have three more races to go now, at Taupo next weekend, to wrap up the title, so I won’t be taking any silly risks,” said Cooper.

“I really felt good at Motueka. I came from behind in all my races and, with Josh (Coppins) taking different lines to me, I just decided to let him go in the last race.

“I think I have the wisdom now to protect my championship and not throw anything away.”

Meanwhile, Queenstown’s Columb continues to dominate the senior lites (250cc) class, finishing 1-2-1 in his three outings to keep Australian Honda star Geran Stapleton at bay.

Sponsored by the Backflips clothing company, this year’s championship wraps up at Taupo next weekend.

For further information contact Simon Meade, Motorcycle Sales Manager, simon@suzuki.co.nz.