OLD S'CooL MX: 1978 'Rocket Rex' Staten YZ250E

Having begun my motocross experience in the High Deserts of SoCal in 1969, it so happened Rex Staten a few months my junior also began his great career in the saddle on the same track I cut my teeth on. Deadmans Point was a great scene with weekend partying from Friday to Sunday and all hours in between. This happened twice a month there for approx 5 years and during this time we all got to see Rex advance and literally annihilate the best competition including European Pro's all over SoCal, and the Nation for years thereafter!

I'm sure many of you have a favorite Rocket Rex story at the races. Feel free to post them at the bottom of this post in the comments section. Rex will enjoy reading them.

So when I was approached to do this YZ, one of Rex's personal Saddleback practice bikes from the 1978-79 season, I launched at the opportunity. With his input, what you see here is pretty much how Rex set up his team bikes, and would you believe he kept the motors stock! This bike is still currently registered in Rex Staten's name and it was a pure joy and honor to build.

Click thumbnails to view large image

Pretty much a mess needing major TLC. I'm up for it no problem!

The story from the MAN behind the big white seat stars is this. Rex at one point had his own privateer team of riders, and he used the star system on all the bikes to be able to identify a rider as an Intermediate, Expert and Pro classifications. It also served as an incentive for young riders to shoot for the 3 star Pro level. Red is Staten's favorite color because it means DANGER. The red grips reminded Rex of his motto when the gate dropped, to "race dangerously" - a racing style he is still known for and enjoys today.