Summarize

Kawasaki has won, just three races since its return to the MSA South African National Cross Country Motorcycle Championship. Franchise Co CIT rider Michael Pentecost swapped over to a Kawasaki KX450X alongside the regular Pepson Plastics Kawasaki Motul team and went on to dominate his first race aboard his green machine at Matatiele over the weekend.

It was a good day at the races for the Pepson Plastics Kawasaki Motul crew too. D'Artagnan Lobjoit rode home third in open class OR1 and sixth overall, while Kyle Mckenzie and Taki Bogiages came in fourth and fifth in 250cc four stroke OR3 on their Pepson Plastics Motul Kawasaki KX250Xs. Another Franchise Co CIT rider Deon du Toit ended second in over-30s Seniors on his KX250X.

“What an incredible first race on my new Kawasaki KX450X,” Mike Pentecost explained. “We won — what more can I say! “I was third in the time trial and then had a great first lap dicing with Brad Cox and I managed to move into the lead. “My second lap was the fastest of the day and then settled into a rhythm for the win. “What a feeling! “My bike was faultless, my team fantastic and this was one of the best organised and marked races I have ever done — world class for sure!” 

D'Artagnan Lobjoit was ecstatic with his run to third in OR1. “My Pepson Plastics Kawasaki Motul KX450X ran like a train throughout and I'm delighted with another OR1 podium,” Dart admitted. “My pace was consistent and quick and I loved the changing conditions from rocky sandstone through sandy sections to the gum plantations. All areas where my bike felt brilliant. “We move back up to Gauteng and Delmas next — I love the quick stuff and I can’t wait for more of that!" 

Kyle Mackenzie was also over the moon about his performance. "I had a really good day in the Matatiele mountains,” Kyle pointed out. My Pepson Plastics Kawasaki Motul KX250X really felt amazing through all the different terrains on the track. “I started quite far back and managed to get up to fourth in the OR3 class. “The track was really fun and I can’t wait for the next race on home turf in Delmas. “Bring it on.”

Taki Bogiages was happy to jump up the OR3 championship table despite some challenges along the way. “It was awesome to be out racing as always,” Taki confirmed. “The diverse track really tested us in so many ways and my Pepson Plastics Kawasaki Motul KX250X was awesome today. “Unfortunately I hit a stump and damaged my chain, but still gave it my best shot to come home fifth in OR3. “It's closer than ever in the championship, so bring on those next two races!”

Pepson Plastics Kawasaki Motul Racing team boss Iain Pepper was delighted with the Matatiele result. “Kawasaki has only been back in South African Cross Country for three races and we have already won. “Congratulations to Franchise Co CIT Kawasaki rider Michael Pentecost for a sensational debut win on his green machine and to our Pepson Plastics Kawasaki Motul Racing regulars, Dart, Kyle and Taki for an incredible effort. “This is the first of many more Kawasaki wins!”