Cycle News is a weekly magazine that covers all aspects of motorcycling including Supercross, Motocross and MotoGP as well as new motorcycles
Issue link: https://magazine.cyclenews.com/i/1039781
IN THE WIND P28 SUZUKI HONORS ROGER HAYDEN O n the closing day of the AIM- Expo in Las Vegas, October 14, Suzuki Motor of America, Inc. (SMAI), road racing fans, motorcycle enthusiasts, factory riders and industry leaders came together on "Suzuki Sunday" to celebrate the 20-year road rac- ing career of Roger Hayden, the Yoshimura Suzuki Factory Racing standout and former AMA Super- sport Champion. Hayden, who recently an- nounced his retirement after professionally racing for two suc- cessful decades, was presented with a new 2019 RMX450Z— decked out with a graphics package that paid homage to his Yoshimura Suzuki Superbike—by Kerry Graeber, Suzuki's Vice President of Sales and Market- ing. Hayden also received an oversized retirement card. The card, signed by fans and industry professionals, featured a quote playfully reminding Hayden that his wife, Dana, who was in at- tendance, now controlled his calendar. Surprised by the gathering and the gifts, Hayden was clearly moved by the love and support as the assembled guests cel- ebrated his career, providing him a big hoorah to the conclusion of his racing life. "Roger has been an asset to not only the Yoshimura Suzuki Factory race team but to the Suzuki family as a whole," said Graeber. "We're grateful for his hard work, dedication, and en- thusiasm and want to thank him for his time with us. We'll miss watching him race but [we're] excited for him and his family to enjoy this next chapter of his life." Hayden pointed out that each of the famous Hayden racing brothers, including Roger, Nicky and Tommy, raced Suzuki motor- cycles in their illustrious careers. In his remarks, Graeber acknowl- edged the unprecedented legacy of the Hayden family and com- plimented Roger for his years successfully racing for Suzuki. "Suzuki Sunday" was the dedicated AIMExpo day pre- sented by Ecstar and filled with Hayden fans, Suzuki enthusiasts and industry leaders including Monster Energy, Arai Helmets, Alpinestars and many more. Powersports media personality Ralph Sheeheen was the Master of Ceremonies while Yoshimura/ Suzuki superbike teammate Toni Elias and Autotrader/Yo- shimura/Suzuki Factory MX riders Chad Reed and Weston Peick were also in attendance to celebrate the career of number 95 (Hayden's long-time national road-racing competition number). Food and music was enjoyed by all and several themed souve- nirs were handed out to attend- ees including commemorative Roger Hayden poker chips, cus- tom "95" engraved sunglasses, stickers, and posters. CN Suzuki presented Roger Hayden with this modified Suzuki RMX450Z at Hayden's retirement/celebration party thrown for him by Suzuki at the AIMExpo in Las Vegas.