A scoop for Eco-endurist Joël Smets!
This week the attention of the world press is completely focused on Denmark and Copenhagen for the major climate conference. The off-road world is also participating in the debate in an original way. The first international Eco Enduro will take place in Denmark from 11 to 13 December. MXMag checked with Joël Smets, one of the most famous participants this weekend. Smets competes against Brian Jorgensen and fast men from different disciplines (MX, rally raid, enduro, road race): David Casteu, Luca Manca, Fabien Planet, Stephane Henrard, Robin Harms…
How did you end up with Eco-Enduro?
Joel Smets: A while ago, Brian Jorgensen had already asked me if I was interested in participating. In any case, I am extremely fascinated by technological innovations in the motorcycle field, but also by the problems associated with the circuits. After all, the most hindering factor for motocross is not so much the emissions but the noise. Moreover, I also feel connected to nature. As a child I grew up playing in the woods and I also really enjoy the beauty of nature.
Have you driven the Quantya yet?
Joel Smets: Yes, I have had the opportunity to put it through its paces a few times and I have always been pleasantly surprised. It is not a full-fledged dirt bike as we know it now, but the Quantya is a lot of fun to ride. Large table jumps are also no problem. And the torque, or the power at the bottom in this case, because an electric motor does not rev, is downright impressive. It accelerates well from a standstill. A while ago I also visited the Environment and Nature Council in Antwerp with the Quantya. This is a consultative body for environmental matters. Even though I entered the hall by motorcycle, I received a standing ovation. That felt almost as good as a GP victory! A good example of the bridges that help build electric motors.
Joel Smets: Training is planned for Thursday and the first tests will take place on Friday. In between there is time to talk to the press and the batteries are literally recharged. There are also two night stages, as is often the case with an enduro. On Sunday, a short and spectacular course has been set up at a military base near the center of Copenhagen. It will be a kind of mix between MX and supermoto. In any case, we hope that a large audience will come and that the world press will also come and take a look.
The FIM already has a road racing championship for electric motorcycles on the calendar for 2010, when will MX follow?
Joel Smets: There are no official plans from the FIM for 2010 yet, but of course it cannot stop at this one international race. I am sure that more initiatives will follow next season!
Question of limiting the ecological footprint, how do you go to Copenhagen?
Joel Smets: (laughs) While swimming of course!
Thanks, Joël and good luck in Denmark.
Photos credit: BMW, Quantya
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