Image: Foremost Media.

A damaged subframe sustained in a crash down the start straight is what ultimately forced former points leader Todd Waters to make an early retirement in moto one of Wonthaggi’s Pirelli MX Nationals.

The DPH Motorsport Husqvarna talent collided with another rider as the premier class headed into turn one, resulting in the number 47 crashing heavily before his bike was severely damaged by another incoming contender.

The damage to subframe, which is made of a composite construction and comes standard on the Husqvarna, was deemed too serious for Waters to continue, prompting him to relinquish the points lead.

“Basically, someone collided with Todd on the start straight and he crashed,” DPH Motorsport Husqvarna’s Boyd Hocking explained to MotoOnline.com.au. “I believe someone crashed into the back of him, which broke the subframe. From there, it was all over unfortunately.

“When the subframe is damaged on the Husqvarna, you can’t continue with it being a composite subframe. The bike is back together now – Todd knows what he has to do and he’s got a good head on his shoulders. We’ll be fine and hopefully get some good points for a bad day.”

Visiting Estonian Erki Kahro (KTM) stunned the competition by claiming victory in MX1 race one at Wonthaggi, benefiting from a 10-second penalty handed down to Luke Clout (CDR Yamaha Monster Energy).