How can I get better gas mileage? A scooter!

Are gas prices sucking the life, and money, out of your wallet? Ever thought about cruising around town on two wheels that average around 115 mph? Sounds unreal, but it isn’t! The solution may just rest on the sweet, easy riding, stylish wheels of a Honda scooter.  Continue reading, take a deep breath, and get ready for some excitement! Here’s a quick look at Honda’s impressive lineup of scooters, and keep in mind that with Honda, you can rest easy when it comes to efficiency, innovation, and reliability. 

Honda Metropolitan

Why does just about everyone who sees a Metropolitan want one? It's not just for the ruby-red paint or the smart European-derived styling. It's also for the go-green gas mileage and the fully automatic transmission. This practical-minded mount comes with a feisty 49cc engine that lets you zip around with ease. And while the Metropolitan's no-nonsense reliability is what you expect in a Honda, its cool style is what makes it hot.

Honda Ruckus

Want to blend in? Then forget about a Ruckus. Because this machine packs way more attitude than bikes twice its size. Sure, the thrifty 49cc engine gets you where you need to go and hardly uses any gas doing it. Urban riding couldn't be easier thanks to the V-matic® automatic transmission and electric starter. And best of all the Ruckus is built tough so it can handle all the bumps and dings that modern life dishes out, but does it with a style all its own.

Honda Elite

Looking for a scooter that can do it all? A cool new ride that can get you to school or work, run errands around town, or even handle two-up duty when date night rolls around? Then check out the new 2010 Elite®, our stylish new entry featuring an all-new 108cc liquid-cooled, fuel-injected four-stroke engine, twist-and-go Honda V-Matic transmission, electric start, Honda's unique Combined Braking System (CBS), and indispensable amenities like ample underseat storage and a glove compartment. 

Honda PCX

The all-new Honda PCX™ is your ticket to ride—wherever you want to. It’s a great new addition to our scooter line that combines sportbike-inspired styling, on-the-go convenience and great fuel economy into a package that makes riding fun. With room for two, a liquid-cooled, fuel-injected 125cc engine, a Honda V-Matic automatic transmission and tons of convenient storage everywhere, there’s only one question left.

Honda SH150i

Whether you're commuting, shopping or simply going from Point A to B, getting there should be all the fun. So without further ado, allow us to introduce you to Honda's all-new SH150i: your first-class ticket to world-class fun, guaranteed to get you wherever you're going with style—and a smile. The SH150i is the perfect blend of cool and cutting-edge, combining progressive styling and plenty of room for two with a fuel-injected 153cc four-stroke engine, Honda V-matic transmission and Combined Braking System delivering the potent, reliable performance one has come to expect from a Honda. No wonder it's the most popular scooter in Italy!

Honda Silver Wing

If you think scooters are just for zipping around campus or grabbing an espresso, have we got a wake-up call for you. Honda’s Silver Wing is a slice of two-wheeled transport that puts plenty of motorcycles—and even some cars—to shame. The list of luxury/comfort features includes its full-coverage bodywork, generous windscreen, and a large, comfortable seat with room for two. Power comes from a strong 582cc two-cylinder engine with liquid cooling and fuel injection, and that makes the Silver Wing a perfect choice for longer weekend rides or tours.

Naturally the Silver Wing comes with a no-hassle Honda V-Matic automatic transmission, so there’s no shifting ever. And you even get Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) for added confidence in less-than-ideal conditions.

Any more questions?  Head down to Heartland Honda to see Honda’s legendary innovation and reliability applied to the world of scooters.

Pre-Owned Spotlight: 2006 Harley Davidson Screamin' Eagle Fat Boy

Did you know that Heartland Honda carries a WIDE variety of pre-owned bikes? We have all kinds of makes and models, from Honda to Suzuki to Harley.  That's right, Harley.  

Here's one of the pre-owned we currently have on the floor, and boy is it one to see.  

Come by today to take a look at our wide selection of new and used bikes and ATVs!

Arkansas Safe Rider Motorcycle Education

Never ridden before, but eager to get started? Maybe considering a scooter, or just wanting to get into the motorcycle world? Maybe you know how to ride, but would like to enhance your skills?  Look no further, friends, as Heartland Honda can now offer you the education you need through the Arkansas Safe Rider education system.  ASR is now offering classes through our shop, and we'd be glad to help get you signed up! See anyone at Heartland Honda for more information, or click here to see the ASR site.

Happy Memorial Day!

Heartland Honda would like to express a special Happy Memorial Day to all of our readers, customers, and fans.

We hope everyone has a safe and happy holiday, while remembering what it's all about.  Every American soldier, past and present, deserves a moment of our appreciation and reverence for all they have done, and continue to do.

Many thanks to the distinguished members of our country's military.

Heartland Honda

Meet the 2012 Honda Foreman 4x4: Built to work – even harder.

Honda's Foreman family of all-terrain vehicles have always been the machines to count on when you need an ATV that's not afraid to take on the tough jobs. And this year they're better than ever: Stronger, smarter, even harder working, whether it's around the ranch, factory, or your favorite trail.

How can that be? Because in addition to four-wheel drive and Honda's innovative Electric Power Steering, the Foreman line now features Honda's Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI). That means you get more efficient fuel delivery, easier starting in cold conditions, and less maintenance. While we were at it, we gave the Foreman a new look too, with new, aggressively styled bodywork, plusher suspension, and a more comfortable seat.

So tackling those tough jobs just got a whole lot easier if you hire the right Foreman to take charge of your jobsite.

Heartland Honda already has these ALL-NEW Honda ATVs in stock, come down today to check it out!

2011 CB1000R HAS ARRIVED.

Get an eyeful of this. Or, come down to Heartland Honda and see the beast in person, because the all-new 2011 CB1000R HAS ARRIVED.  The “Naked Bike” came in this week, and boy were we excited to get this one out.  Here are some pictures along with a few words about all the incredible innovation that went into this revolutionary machine.

The CB1000R is a new take on a timeless concept. A no-nonsense superbike that's not afraid to show off its muscle where everyone can see it. We took a CBR1000RR powerplant—and retuned it for even more midrange power and torque. Then we built a special chassis that puts the engine out front and center, and that also lets you sit more upright. The result is one of the most versatile open-class bikes the world has ever seen.  Not to mention, one of the best looking.

The new CB1000R is built around a superbike-strong 998cc DOHC inline four engine. Basically, we took a CBR1000RR powerplant and retuned it to deliver a bare-knuckle blast of power that's perfect for street riding, with plenty of torque and power on tap. Since it's a four cylinder, it's plenty smooth for longer rides too.

CB1000R's high-tech, all-digital instrument display features tachometer, plus LCD readouts for speedometer, coolant temperature, odometer, two tripmeters and a clock, mpg and average fuel consumption.

The new CB1000R has nothing to hide. On the contrary, it'd be a shame to cover up that awesome engine, so we've put it out front and center so you and everyone else can enjoy it. Then our designers gave the CB1000R just enough styling touches (side radiator shrouds, fork-mounted cowl fairing, cast aluminum four-spoke wheels) to really set it apart. Check out the result for yourself.

The CB1000R's Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI) ensures crisp throttle response and both low- and high-rpm performance. In addition, there's no choke to mess with, and the CB1000R runs perfectly at all altitudes and temperatures, even on cold mornings.

The CB1000R offers exceptional handling, thanks to a Gravity Die Cast mono-backbone aluminum chassis that's light and strong, a fully-adjustable inverted fork, and adjustable Pro Link® rear suspension with a single-sided swing arm.

Now, wipe the drool off your face and come take a look at Honda's latest beast. And if you're up to it, take it for a ride and let it show you what all the hype is about.

Summer is finally here!! Do you have enough toys?

If Honda is what you trust on the street, in the dirt, sand, and on the trails… why not on the water?  Honda engineering and innovation translates to water fun with the AquaTrax, bringing along it’s legendary stability and value.  When it comes to summer fun on the water, don’t settle for less than the best. Ride Honda.

Honda’s AquaTrax F-15X is the perfect choice for on-the-water fun. Why? This three-passenger beauty is packed with the features and engineering you’d expect from a Honda. Featuring a 1470cc fuel-injected and turbocharged four-stroke powerplant, the F-15X rocks on the waves. The hull is an ultra-stable design, specially tuned for superb low- and high-speed maneuverability. In other words, the F-15X shreds. And all without sacrificing creature comforts like plush, UV-resistant foam seating, ample on-board storage, programmable keyless ignition, and two eye-catching color schemes to choose from. 

Best of all, it’s a Honda.

UNIQUE FEATURES

• Lightweight, liquid-cooled, DOHC, 16-valve, 1470cc, fuel-injected, dry-sump, four-cylinder engine features a one-piece upper-crankcase/cylinder block engineered to withstand the rigors of marine duty.

• A water-cooled IHI turbo charger with water-cooled intercooler provide both exceptional performance and long turbo life.

• Axial-flow single-stage Solas 155mm jet pump with three-blade impeller is precisely matched to the engine power characteristics. A proprietary Honda impeller design and ECU control of the turbocharger wastegate minimize pump cavitation, resulting in quiet operation and extended impeller life.

• Strong, lightweight fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP) hull and deck are permanently joined and sealed at the gunwale, providing the AquaTrax with a distinctive and attractive profile.

• Raised hull bond-line design aids in docking and provides excellent splash protection.

At Heartland Honda, we have a great selection of both new and used AquaTrax, and financing options to suit anyone’s needs.  Come in today and get ready to have some fun on the water!

OFFICIAL ARRIVAL: Heartland Honda gets the first 2012 Gold Wings!

Earlier this week, we uncrated and revealed two of the first 2012 Gold Wings to arrive in Arkansas. We have one in Candy Red and one in Pearl White, and boy do they look good sitting in our showroom floor. However, we’d rather not keep them there, so come down and check them out!! 

For the 2012 model, Honda took the world’s best touring motorcycle and made it even better.  The new bodywork is an eye-catcher, and complements what is already the best engine and chassis package the touring world has ever seen.

One big added functionality for the new model is storage capacity: increased by seven liters, upping total capacity to over 150 liters including trunk and fairing pockets.

Some other new features:

Trip Planner

Now you can plan trip routes on your home computer and upload them into your Gold Wing’s available navi system, also share your trips with friends, or download routes from others (TripPlanner.Honda.com). You’ll also notice Navi improvements like lane guidance and junction view, and a new GPS receiver that captures satellite signals faster.

More Is Better

With revised bodywork providing increased lower body wind protection, new seat material, and iPod® connectivity, you’ll be able to enjoy your adventure even more. Add XM's line-up of programming, and the available XM® NavTraffic® and NavWeather™ features, you can stay on course and ahead of bad weather. XM Radio, NavTraffic and NavWeather are available on the 2012 Gold Wing Audio Comfort Navi XM, 2012 Gold Wing Audio Comfort Navi XM ABS, and 2012 Gold Wing Airbag models only.

Four Performance Packages

We offer the Gold Wing in four distinct performance package options, with exclusive features like Premium Surround Audio; XM® Radio with Navigation, Traffic, and Weather; Trip Planner, a Tire Pressure Monitoring System, ABS, heated grips and seat, and even one with the industry's first airbag.

Don’t miss your chance to be one of the first to take the brand new Gold Wing for a spin! Come down to Heartland Honda and get an eyeful of these beautiful machines.

2011 Supercross Series Championship: Wrap-up

What a year it has been for the AMA Supercross Championship series!  We’ve seen ups and downs; crazy turns in points leaders, and exhilarating competition on the track.  But it’s all over now… well, this series is anyway.

On May 7, a sold out stadium in Las Vegas saw Ryan Villopoto clinch his first AMA Supercross championship with a third place finish in the main event.  Chad Reed won the main, finishing second in the final points standings.  The 250 West sees Ken Roczen win the Main - his first ever AMA win, and Broc Tickle finishes second to win West Lites Championship. In 250 East, Blake Baggett takes the main, and Justin Barcia is the East Coast Lites Champion via a third place. Ryan Sipes wins East/West Shoot-out with an exciting ride.

In an eventful East Lites main event, Justin Barcia took an early lead, only to crash in the fourth lap.  He was able to recover, however, and finish third to hold his lead in points and take the championship.  The Geico Honda Rider was excited to clinch his first AMA East Lites Supercross Championship, saying after the race: “I'm at a loss for words right now. It hasn't sunk in yet that I've won the championship. It's been an awesome season. The racing has been crazy all year and I've had a lot of fun. I have an awesome team behind me that have given me 100% support every race. This is a moment I will remember forever.”

In the 450 class qualifying heats, it was James Stewart and Ryan Villopoto taking the wins and promising the main event to be quite a show for the final round of the series.  With the championship up for grabs between four riders, (Stewart, Reed, and Dungey already title holders), and the points leader Ryan Villopoto, it was anyone’s game. 

For the first few laps of the 20-lap main event, it was James Stewart and Kevin Windham fighting for the lead, with Villopoto and Reed following closely behind.  It wouldn’t last though, as Stewart and Windham both crashed out on lap seven. Those two would sit out and watch the top three points contenders battle for the lead the remainder of the race.  Villopoto initially took the lead, with Reed and Dungey close on his heels.  However, by lap 13, Villopoto was passed by both.  Knowing he could win the championship with a third place finish, Villopoto smartly sat back and let the other two fight for the lead on a track getting slicker by the lap.

TwoTwo Motorsports/Honda rider Chad Reed went on to win the Supercross Main Event, with Dungey finishing second and Villopoto third.

Chad Reed said "I had a blast. So thankful to everyone behind me. Huge thanks to the fans - this year has been unbelievable. I feel totally blessed this season. Congrats to Ryan Villopoto. He earned the championship. He had the most wins this season, and to come back from what he went through last year he has my respect. We did all we can and sometimes you just come up short."

Ryan Villopoto said "I can't thank everybody at Monster Energy Kawasaki and the team enough. They believed in me. We'll enjoy this one. Luckily I was able to go around Kevin and James. At the beginning of the year I was able to hire Aldon Baker as my trainer, probably the best move of my career. My fitness has greatly improved, we are a good team, along with Monster Energy Kawasaki. I just have to thank everyone at Kawasaki. The team believed in me through thick and thin. It was a hard-fought battle. I wasn't pulling away from Chad, so I just let him by and Ryan Dungey was right behind him, so then I let him by. I just cruised from there."

Feld Director of Supercross Dave Prater: “This was one of the most exciting seasons the sport has witnessed. Leading up into the final race in the Supercross class, we saw five different winners throughout the season and three riders sat within 12 points of the highly coveted world title. In both the Western and Eastern Regional Supercross Lites classes, we also saw several riders lining up for the Lites title with only a handful of points separating the field. I'd like to congratulate all of the riders, sponsors and teams for making the 2011 Monster Energy Supercross season a huge success.”

Heartland Honda sends a big CONGRATS out to all of this year’s winners.  It was truly an exciting season to watch, from week to week.  We are proud to see Honda riders doing so well in this prestigious championship series, and look forward to another great season next year!! 

In the meantime however, we’ll turn our attention to the 2011 AMA National Motocross Championships, starting May 21! Stay tuned to Heartland Honda for updates, and as always,  GO HONDA!

5th Annual International Female Ride Day: JUST RIDE!

MOTORESS International is once again promoting the International Female Ride Day, today: Friday, May 6, 2011.

This year marks the fifth globally-synchronized event which unifies women motorcyclists around the world.  The theme, as it has been in the past, is “Just Ride.”  The group encourages all women motorcyclists, regardless of type of motorcycle, to get out and put a few miles down.  After the ride, participants can join in online conversations to share with other riders their experiences of the day.

“We ride on a Friday to emphasize the fact that motorcycling for women is not only a hobby but something women incorporate into their every day lives.  Women ride to work, to school or to run errands, such as I do on my scooter in the city – it’s a reality in a woman’s life, and this day simply accentuates it.  Women enthusiastically prepare to ride and unite around the world on this synchronized day – and if you look at the feedback by the way of the Internet, it’s truly phenomenal!” says Vicki Gray, founder of MOTORESS.

First celebrated in 2007, International Female Ride Day aims to bring awareness to the existing and mounting number of women motorcyclists who, arguably, ride just as much as their male counterparts.  The ride has continued to expand throughout the years with endorsements and support from the motorcycle industry including female rider clubs and international governing bodies such as Federation Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM).  And, for the first time, this year the National Russian Motorcycle Federation (NRMF) and also a group of women from India will be on board for the action.

International Female Ride Day is supported by BMW Motorrad Canada, Harley-Davidson, Honda, Kawasaki, Kymco, Suzuki, Arai, AFMQ (Association des femmes motorcyclistes du Québec), CMA (Canadian Motorcycle Association), Canadian Biker, Draggin Jeans, Gearing Up (Canada Safety Council), Go-Go Ger, Inside Motorcycles, Ride for Sight, Riders Plus Insurance, and FIM (Federation Internationale de Motocyclisme).

About MOTORESS: 

MOTORESS International, headquartered in Toronto, Canada “Connects Women with Motorcycling” through its global online community and magazine.  MOTORESS engages its readers within the passion they seek in every aspect of their motorcycling lifestyle, while providing education, knowledge along with news, gearstyle, technique, beauty, health, inspiration and more.  MOTORESS is forging the most feminine, friendly vibrant motorcycle community for women anywhere.

So ladies; JUST RIDE!! Enjoy the beautiful weather that we know Northwest Arkansas has blessed us with today!

2012 Off-Road Machines Announced!

American Honda Motor Company introduces another wave of machines for the 2012 model year, which include a wide assortment of dual-sport and off-road motorcycles, ATVs and the Big Red™ MUV. These 2012 models emphasize the far-ranging options that Honda brings to customers and this broad array of machines also underscores another exciting new season for Honda. This release of 2012 models includes: the CRF450R, CRF250R and CRF150R/RB motocross machines; the dual-sport XR650L; Honda’s popular selection of small-displacement recreational off-road bikes, the CRF100F, CRF80F, CRF70F and CRF50F; a host of ATVs including the FourTrax® Rancher® family, the FourTrax® Recon®, TRX400X and TRX90X; plus the versatile Big Red. In addition to these models, a host of new 2012 Honda Genuine Accessories are available that encompass the quality, performance and fit and finish you expect of all Honda products.

"Over the years, riding enthusiasts have come to know, appreciate and trust the wide diversity of machines that Honda offers" said Powersports Press Manager Bill Savino. "This extensive release of 2012 models serves as a perfect example of how we strive to meet the many needs of today’s riding enthusiasts. This latest new-model release will fulfill the needs of many riders, but I’m excited to add that in addition to these models, we have even more new releases to follow later this year"

CRF450R: Setting a New Standard 


Since its introduction, the CRF450R has served as the standard by which all other bikes are judged in the big-bore class of motocross machines. In 2012, Honda raises the bar once again with a host of improvements that will help the CRF450R stay at the head of the pack. A new, stiffer fork outer tube among other refinements bring a more solid feel to the front end, and stiffer fork springs, revised suspension settings front and rear plus a new shock linkage yield improved tracking, more precise handling and added rider confidence over rough terrain. New, longer and wider footpegs offer more support with a larger platform and Dunlop’s premium MX51 tires add to an overall package that makes the CRF450R the bike of choice in the 450 class for 2012.

CRF250R: A Winning Combination Grows Stronger 


Superb handling and excellent power stand as the hallmarks of the CRF250R, and the revised 2012 model ups the ante in the 250 class. A new cylinder head, camshaft and 46mm throttle body produce a broadened powerband featuring more low-end and midrange torque for an amazing, right-now hit of power. In addition, a new suspension linkage and updated suspension settings front and rear bestow improved tracking and more precise handling upon the CRF250R, enhancements that make a great-handling bike even better than before. In addition to those changes, longer and wider footpegs deliver more support and Dunlop’s premium MX51 tires cap off championship-caliber credentials that make the CRF250R the bike to beat in 2012.

CRF150RB-Expert/CRF150R: Back and Better Than Ever 


Back in the lineup as a 2012 model, the revolutionary CRF150RB-Expert/CRF150R steps up to an even higher level of performance. Thanks to several key engine updates, this 2012 model boasts improved power, torque and driveability throughout the powerband. Updated suspension settings front and rear produce improved action through even the toughest of track conditions. All of which reinforce the CRF150R’s premier position in racing circles.

XR650L: The Legend Continues 


In truth, the XR650L has grown to become a legend in its own time—and for good reason. Whether the road ahead holds dirt roads, single-track trails, highways or byways, the XR650L serves as the key that opens the door to riding adventures and good times. For years, devotees of the XR650L have trusted this do-it-all mount to transport them to all kinds of far-flung destinations and back again. And for 2012, the much-beloved XR650L returns to accomplish all kinds of two-wheeled missions once more.

A Family Gathering: CRF50F, CRF70F, CRF80F and CRF100F 


For years, Honda has offered a full line of off-road bikes stair-cased in size and displacement to meet the specific needs of riders just entering the sport. That tradition continues in 2012 with the CRF® line of family bikes beginning with the automatic-clutch-equipped CRF50F and CRF70F that both feature low seat heights and light weights that work to the advantage of those new to riding. The next rung up features the CRF80F and CRF100F, two bikes that offer manual clutches with smooth, progressive action—just right for mastering the knack of clutch starts and manual shifting. No matter which of these four you may select for the job at hand, each and every one offers the famous quality and reliability that keeps Honda at the top of the list for families that ride.

FourTrax Rancher Family: Built to Work—and Play 


Over the years, the hard-working FourTrax Rancher series of Honda ATVs have proven to be exceptionally dependable riding partners whether the day calls for hard work or loads of fun. From sunup to sundown, these hard-working machines simply get the job done thanks to a torque-laden liquid-cooled fuel-injected 420cc engine. From that well-proven starting point, the list of configurations truly abounds: 2WD or 4WD, manual transmission, Honda’s Electric Shift Program that makes gear shifts as easy as punching a button, or a fully automatic transmission. There’s also a choice of Electric Power Steering plus much, much more. With so much to choose from, it’s easy to see why the FourTrax Rancher family continues to stand out as one of the best picks in the world of ATVs.

Class Act: FourTrax Recon/ FourTrax Recon ES 


Since the inception of this classy ATV, thousands of riders have made the Honda FourTrax Recon a best seller, and that’s just the way it should be. A remarkably torquey 229cc OHV engine pumps out delightful levels of performance, while its size enhances its agile handling traits. With the option of a manual gearbox or Honda’s push-button Electric Shift Program (ESP®) the FourTrax Recon continues to deliver just-right performance that gets the job done seven days a week.

Bring On the Performance and More: TRX400X 


The TRX400X enjoys a well-deserved reputation for bringing aggressive styling and high performance to the ranks of sport ATVs. The bulletproof 397cc RFVC (Radial Four-Valve Combustion Chamber) engine has earned its place as one of the all-time great engines by offering both power and durability in spades. Yet thoughtful amenities such as a five-speed transmission plus Reverse gear and electric starting bolster the fun part of the equation as well. All in all, the TRX400X delivers all the goods for those in search of a performance-packed ATV that also includes Honda’s legendary excellence of design.

Best Foot Forward: TRX90X 


When it’s time to introduce off-road riders to the world of ATVs, the TRX90X serves as the ideal starting point. While the TRX90X carries the same styling cues that place it right alongside its big brother sport ATVs, it also offers a smooth power delivery and Honda’s renowned reliability. Factor in the ease of electric starting, Honda’s durable automatic clutch and a refined suspension system, and you have the perfect combination for launching a new beginner off to a great start on a lifelong riding career.

Big Red: The World’s Hardest Working MUV 


In 2011 Honda brought a load of upgrades to the Big Red Multipurpose Utility Vehicle (MUV), and these changes continue to elevate this hard-working machine way ahead of all other options. Credit its multiple patents and numerous automotive-based technology features for the praise Big Red has garnered for its superior handling, secure feel and comfortable ride. Yet it works harder than ever, thanks to its 675cc liquid-cooled fuel-injected engine, recently upgraded load carrying and towing capacities, revised suspension, contoured bench seat for easier entry/exit and a Roll Over Protection Structure (ROPS) that meets OSHA requirements.

Look out for these 2012 offroad machines coming to Heartland Honda later this year!!

Just ONE WEEK to go!! 2011 AMA Supercross

With the final round of the 2011 AMA Supercross Championship upon us in just a few days, the excitement has reached its boiling point.  Last week’s trip to Salt Lake City proved to be quite a show, and set the stage for an exciting final.

James Stewart seemed to be an early favorite through early qualifying, flying through laps and setting a pace few seemed to be able to match. However, when it came to main event time, he did what we’ve seen him do all too much this season; he lost his head.  Stewart was leading the main through Lap 8 when he washed out his front end.  His mistake allowed three riders to pass, and Stewart lost it again, this time going over his handlebars.  This mistake was the deciding factor in the main, as Stewart was slow to recover during the remaining laps.

Stewart aside, Ryan Villopoto was able to run a clean race, taking home his sixth win on the season and allowing himself some breathing room in the points race entering the final round. This victory gave Villopoto the point lead by nine heading into Vegas.

“This season it’s been crazy," said Villopoto. "You just have to stay up on two wheels and minimize the mistakes. We’ve all made big mistakes this year. I think everybody is going so fast and tracks are so tough, so mistakes are going to happen.”

In addition to Stewart’s disappointment over his performance, TwoTwo Motorsports’ Chad Reed wasn’t a happy camper either. Like the other top-four riders in the series, Reed desperately needed a win to gain better footing for the season finale, but fell just short and placed second.

 “I’m just disappointed in that ride,” said Reed. “I was just riding a little too tight across the whoops. It was good one lap and then the next I was just average.”

Despite Reed’s poor portrayal of his own performance, the Aussie did post one of his most memorable rides of the season. Rather than being relegated and accepting his runner-up status, Reed bitterly fought toward the end of the 20-lap contest, keeping Villopoto honest the whole way through. In the end, however, it wasn’t enough and he dropped back in relation to RV by three points.

Third in the series and 12 points behind Villopoto in the championship, Dungey also lost points to RV in Salt Lake City. Despite another round of consistent riding that ended with a finish on the box, Dungey was forced to accept the reduced likelihood of defending his 2010 SX title. 

"I felt good, but I just wasn't matching the lap times and was losing a lot of ground," said Dungey. "Overall, we did the best we could and we just have to put this away and learn from it and look forward to Vegas next weekend and try to go for a win."

There you have it folks, this Supercross season has been quite a ride for all competitors, and forced some big mistakes along with big wins.  Stay tuned this Saturday for Vegas’ final round and the crowning of the 2011 AMA Supercross Champion!!