Sherco Australia press release:

The Motul Pirelli Sherco Enduro Team has come away from the 2015 Hattah Desert Race with its best-ever result after Justin Carafa placed second in the 251cc and over two-stroke class aboard the Sherco 300SE-R.

Carafa began the multi-lap race in tough company and despite some trying conditions, pushed through with some smart riding. “I started in 18th position outright and the first lap was super tough,” Carafa said after the event.

“It was exciting straight off the start but the first dusty section was like riding in survival mode. Visibility was like riding blindfolded. Riding behind big thumpers is like being sandblasted and the straights are quite long so it wasn’t a pleasant ride.

“Conditions were drier than I expected and the track had compacted so it was a lot more hard-pack style riding than deep sand in comparison to previous years. Most bumps were square edges rather than sandy rollers. That takes a different mid set and I prepared for deep sand and whoops.” Carafa said. Despite severe blisters to his left hand, Carafa sat comfortably in second position in his class for the entire event.

“The bike was strong all day. The team had a good day testing on Thursday with Dave Suter and Chad’s Off-Road Setups who delivered a great bike. “Unfortunately my hands blistered up pretty bad and my clutch hand was pretty much out of order from lap three onwards.

“I just toughed it out because I knew I could get Sherco on the podium. My outright results is what I was after. I know my fitness is better than most guys out there but I couldn’t push as hard because of my hands. “I’m disappointed in myself because I should have been better prepared. But second in class is good. I’m pleased to give Sherco a podium result.”

Carafa will now turn his attention towards rounds 9 and 10 of the Australian Off-Road Championship in Kyogle, NSW on July 25-26. For more information on Sherco Australia, visit www.sherco.com.au or to follow the progress of the new Motul Pirelli Sherco Enduro Team, visit www.facebook.com/shercomotorcyclesaustralia.