**Industry Seating Podcast Episode Summary
**
Title: Ep 207: Hangtown MX
Host: Jason Thomas
Release Date: June 2, 2025

Overview

In Episode 207 of Industry Seating, host Jason Thomas delves deep into the recent Hangtown MX event, providing an insightful analysis of the race conditions, rider performances, and the intricate balance of fitness and recovery that professional motocross and supercross athletes maintain. The episode also touches upon the challenges faced by riders when unpredictable weather and track conditions play a significant role in their performance.

Race Conditions and Their Impact

Jason Thomas opens the discussion by reflecting on the unusual streak of favorable weather conditions experienced over the past three years in the U.S. motocross scene, highlighting how rare it has been to encounter extreme weather such as the brutally hot conditions last Labor Day weekend at Fox Raceway.

"Before you know it, we're going to be in the off-season again, looking towards the 2026 season. It's, it's pretty remarkable how, how quickly things go by."
[00:05]

Thomas emphasizes the significant impact of weather on race dynamics and rider preparation. He anticipates that this summer might finally bring the anticipated muddy and hot races, which although challenging, add a layer of complexity to the sport.

Fitness and Recovery Strategies

A substantial portion of the episode is dedicated to discussing the rigorous fitness and recovery routines that riders adhere to, especially following demanding race days like Hangtown MX.

Thomas explains the concept of active recovery, where riders engage in low-intensity activities to flush out lactic acid and expedite muscle recovery. He underscores the importance of maintaining hydration through strategies such as intravenous (IV) hydration and steady bicycle rides post-race.

"The last thing they'd want is to have a really heavy sweat session on Sunday. They're trying to regain all of their hydration."
[15:30]

He further elaborates on the delicate balance riders must maintain between pushing their physical limits and allowing adequate recovery, cautioning against the misconception that more training always equates to better performance.

"More is not always better. Just working harder is not always better."
[22:45]

Thomas shares personal insights, drawing parallels from his own experiences with extreme physical exertion, to highlight the effectiveness of the recovery techniques he advocates.

Rider Performance Analysis

Hayden Deegan

Thomas offers a critical yet supportive analysis of Hayden Deegan's performance at Hangtown MX. While acknowledging Deegan's evident fitness and effort throughout the race, he notes that Deegan did not dominate as expected.

"I thought he would win by more. He didn't... His effort, I think it took more out of him in the second moto."
[35:20]

He speculates that Deegan's recent illness may have affected his performance, despite his strong showing in the first moto.

Levi Kitchen

Levi Kitchen's performance is lauded for his exceptional effort under extreme heat conditions. Thomas describes witnessing Kitchen battling through the race with visible signs of exhaustion, emphasizing the physical toll of such races.

"Kitchen looked like he had done a marathon and then an Ironman and then a Spartan race in succession."
[50:10]

Thomas commends Kitchen's resilience and the support from the medical and support teams in managing his overheating issues effectively.

Joe Shimoda

Joe Shimoda is highlighted as a standout performer, maintaining consistent top-tier finishes. Thomas praises Shimoda's ability to stay competitive despite the grueling conditions, positioning him as a key contender in the championship.

"Shimoda has great speed and great fitness also... Trying to pounce when the opportunity arises."
[65:40]

Other Notable Performances

Thomas also touches upon performances by Casey Cochran, Ryder D, and Jeremy Martin, discussing their struggles and achievements in the race. He provides a candid assessment of their standings and potential future in the sport.

250 Class Overview

The episode transitions into an analysis of the 250 class, where Thomas provides a rundown of the power rankings and notable performances from various riders.

• Hayden Deegan is praised for his consistent effort but noted for not capitalizing fully on his fitness.
• Hunter Lawrence is discussed in the context of his recent performances and potential challenges ahead.
• Casey Cochran is recognized for his promising start and potential in the early stages of his career.
• Ryder D and Jeremy Martin are evaluated based on their current standings and future prospects, with Thomas offering insights into their need to elevate performances to remain competitive.

"Do you have to rise above, you have to flash. So decision-makers are like, nope, we see what we need to see. There's still too much potential there. We have to keep this kid around."
[80:15]

450 Class Power Rankings

In the 450 class, Thomas provides a comprehensive power ranking, highlighting the top performers and their standings post-Hangtown MX.

1. Jet remains at the pinnacle, praised for his unparalleled skill and racecraft.
2. Eli Tomac is analyzed for his strong performance in Moto1 and the challenges he faced in Moto2, particularly emphasizing the critical importance of starts and minimizing errors under pressure.
3. Chase Sexton is mentioned with anticipation of his potential comeback.
4. Cooper Webb is acknowledged for his consistent top 10 finishes and championship aspirations.
5. Malcolm Stewart is commended for his solid and heartening performances despite not being a top favorite.
6. Justin Cooper, Poissinger, and others are discussed in terms of their race day performances and impact on the overall rankings.

"Jet puts you in these spots where you can't screw up, you can't give him points, you can't get a bad start."
[120:45]

Thomas concludes the rankings by emphasizing Jet's dominance in the field and the relentless pressure he exerts on his competitors to maintain peak performance.

Conclusion

Jason Thomas wraps up the episode by reiterating the significance of Hangtown MX in shaping the current championship landscape. He underscores the resilience of the riders, the critical role of recovery techniques, and the ever-evolving dynamics of racecraft in motocross and supercross racing.

"This was the top 10 for this week, Subject to Change weekly. And I hope everybody enjoyed this podcast."
[140:00]

Thomas encourages listeners to provide feedback and looks forward to future episodes that continue to offer an in-depth look into the professional racing scene.

Notable Quotes

• "Predictability is paramount for racers. You have to know what it's going to do before it even happens."
  [25:50]
  — Jason Thomas on the importance of bike predictability

• "When the door is open, you have to walk through it."
  [130:30]
  — Jason Thomas on seizing opportunities in racing

This episode of Industry Seating serves as a comprehensive analysis of the Hangtown MX race, offering listeners a blend of race-day action, strategic insights, and thoughtful commentary on the physical and mental demands placed on professional riders.