Sherco wins first stage of Dakar Rally

[mtbrider]

As the Dakar Rally continues to evolve towards the goal of 450cc machinery only in 2011, new manufacturers are taking notice and trying to gain a foothold in the historic sport. Sherco has done just that with a victory in the first stage as David Casteu piloted his SE 4.5i ahead of the larger 690 KTM machines of Cyril Despres and reigning champion, Marc Coma by three and 12 seconds, respectively

Not bad for a new bike from Sherco. Gives me some thing new to watch. I really get into the Dakar.

[David Lahey]

Don't get too excited. The Yamaha 450 ridden by David Fretigne won the first stage in a previous Dakar while almost every other bike was a big KTM.
I would love it if a 450 Sherco or even a 450 BMW won this time but my money is on a 690 KTM winning.

[mtbrider]

The 450 Sherco went well again in the second stage keeping the overall although the Yamaha did win stage 2 with Fretigne piloting.
Stage 3 was a bit of a wipeout though with the 450's having mechanical problems although Castea still managing to keep second with battery problems but only 10 minutes down to the big KTM of Despres.

Fretigne has dropped to 20th down 1h 35m with him and Coma having mechanical problems.

It's still a long way to go so plenty to still enjoy.

SBS at 6.00 each night.

[mtbrider]

PS

Don't forget the Aussies

Rob Pollard (Perth) KTM 690 - 54th

Christophe Barriere Varju KTM 660 - 66th http://www.teamrallyaustralia.com