Carson Brown, known for pushing boundaries on two wheels, unveils his latest masterpiece: a JMC BBR Husqvarna pit bike that redefines custom builds. This isn’t just another pit bike; it’s a testament to relentless fabrication and a desire to break free from conventional limitations. With over 300 hours of meticulous work poured into it, this one-off creation is a true embodiment of bespoke engineering, born from a long-held vision at BBR Motorsports. Forget spare parts and mass production – this Bike Husqvarna is hand-built from the ground up, representing the pinnacle of pit bike performance without constraints.
BBR Motorsports has a storied history of dominating Mini Moto Vegas with high-end pit bikes adhering to strict regulations. Their BBR V3 race bikes, built within the Mini Moto rulebook, secured numerous championships. However, with the decline of Mini Moto in Las Vegas, the rulebook became obsolete, allowing BBR to unleash their creativity without restrictions. Carson explains, “The Mini Moto rules I especially wanted to break were the ones that limited lengthening the wheelbase and ride height. Those two limitations are what separate how fast you can make a pit bike go.”
Pushing the Boundaries of Pit Bike Geometry
With national pit bike races currently off the schedule and Mini Moto regulations no longer a factor, the design parameters shifted dramatically. On the JMC BBR Husqvarna bike, the frame was lengthened by 1 inch and the swingarm by 2 inches compared to the BBR V3 race bikes. This departure from traditional pit bike geometry is a key element in enhancing high-speed stability and handling. Carson elaborates on the frame choice: “Usually, I prefer chromoly steel frames on my Supercross and National bikes, because they are more forgiving and a lot less picky from track to track, but with pit bikes, you need them to be as stiff as possible since you can’t use a frame cradle, thus the hand-built aluminum frame.” Further optimizing rider ergonomics, the titanium Motostuff footpegs were lowered by 1 inch, creating a more spacious cockpit reminiscent of a full-sized motocross machine.
Powerplant: The Daytona Anima 190cc Engine
At the heart of this custom build lies a Japanese-built Daytona Anima 190cc engine. This robust powerplant was meticulously ported and tuned to Carson’s exacting preferences. A 30mm D-slide Keihin carburetor was chosen to perfectly mate with the four-stroke engine, ensuring optimal fuel delivery and throttle response. The Daytona 190cc engine has gained significant popularity in the mini-bike scene, and BBR played a pivotal role in its development, focusing on achieving a high-revving, potent power output. Its accessibility through various online platforms like Amazon and Alibaba further adds to its appeal.
Carson highlights the engine’s advantages, stating, “(1) The Daytona engine can be purchased for under a grand, which is much less expensive than buying an entire Kawasaki, Yamaha or Honda motorcycle, and then having to modify the bike.” He continues, “(2) The Daytona Anima 190cc engine produces 20 horsepower, with a power curve reminiscent of a 250 four-stroke engine. This is where the bigger stiffer frame comes in handy.” While some builders push the Daytona 190cc engine to over 30 horsepower, Carson and BBR prioritized balanced performance and reliability. “We wanted a bike that I could be consistent on and could last banging off the rev limiter. The faster the engine is the worse they handle, plus the suspension struggles to keep up,” Carson explains, emphasizing the importance of a harmonious package.
Suspension and Chassis Components
The suspension system is a blend of Honda CRF150 components and custom BBR engineering. Honda CRF150 fork tubes were shortened and then integrated into wide, CNC-machined BBR triple clamps. This combination ensures minimal flex and maximum front-end rigidity. Carson’s preference for stiff suspension settings is well-known, necessitating custom valving and springs tailored to his aggressive riding style. An Elka shock, with valving matched to the fork setup, was selected for the rear. This robust suspension package allows Carson to tackle big-bike jumps with confidence. Further enhancing chassis stiffness, CRF150 axles were incorporated into the build.
Braking and Clutch System
The braking system is another area where ingenuity shines. Honda CRF150 Nissin brakes, rotors, and calipers are paired with Brembo master cylinders. This hybrid setup delivers the powerful and consistent braking performance Carson is accustomed to on his Supercross Husqvarna FC250. While traditionally favoring cable clutches on pit bikes, Carson couldn’t resist the upgrade to a Brembo hydraulic clutch with a custom slave cylinder, adding a touch of premium performance and feel.
Wheels and Husqvarna Aesthetics
For wheels that can withstand extreme abuse, Pro Wheels was entrusted to create custom hubs, spokes, and rims. Carson emphasizes his trust in Pro Wheels owner Gary Carter, knowing their ability to handle the demands of his riding. To achieve the desired Husqvarna bike look, 2020 Husky TC65 plastics and a seat were utilized. Integrating these components required significant fabrication, including custom frame mounting points, brackets, and layout adjustments. Carson notes, “People underestimate how hard it is to do this. But, we love it. It is a challenge, and it makes our bikes one of a kind.” The result is a seamless integration of Husqvarna aesthetics onto a completely custom chassis.
The Ultimate Pit Bike Experience
Carson Brown’s extensive experience riding and testing pit bikes, perhaps more than anyone else, gives him a unique perspective. Growing up with BBR Motorsports, he’s had access to the pinnacle of pit bike engineering. “I don’t say this to brag, but this is by far the fastest and best-handling pit bike I have ever ridden,” he states. This JMC BBR Husqvarna bike represents the culmination of years of experience and a desire to push pit bike design to its limits. While the allure of unrestricted custom builds is undeniable, Carson hopes for the resurgence of Mini Moto events to bring back the traditional pit bike format. Until then, creations like this JMC BBR Husqvarna stand as benchmarks of innovation and performance.
For those seeking more information about BBR Motorsports and their custom builds, visit www.bbrmotorsports.com or call (253) 631-8233.
