Hatton fifth in Morocco

From Destination Dakar

Don Hatton will be starting fifth in the Enduro class out of approximately 50-plus motorcycle competitors on the second day of competition in the 2009 NPO Shamrock Rally de Maroc (Shamrock Rally of Morocco).

“Rocks, rocks and more rocks. And we are not talking pebbles here,” Hatton said of the course conditions. Due to the rough terrain he has re-injured his hand and twisted his knee. He has been cleared by officials to continue racing.

The Duncan, BC racer is being challenged by both the terrain and some teething problems on his KTM 690 Enduro race bike. His bike has had some recurring electrical gremlins associated with the installation of the navigation equipment and with the suspension set up during day one. But the team mechanics are working hard to correct the problems.

As Hatton is competing in the Enduro class his bike must remain as close to factory stock condition as allowed under the NPO rules. That poses some limitations on components such as the suspension and engine as compared to a race prepared Dakar KTM.

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