American Skyler Howes had an another day inside the Top 10 at the 2024 Dakar Rally on Stage 5. According to the Monster Energy Honda Team, Howes made some positive adjustments to his Honda CRF450 Rally in the morning and this enabled him to “manoeuvre” himself across the extensive sandy section catching the riders ahead as he positioned himself in the Top 10, just under five minutes behind Stage winner and teammate Pablo Quintanilla.
“Today was only a short stage, but it was a very tiring day because of the liaison distance,” Howes said at the finish. “It was an early morning and then a very hot day in the dunes as well, so it took me a little while to find the flow this morning. About half way through the stage I started to catch the guys in front of me which gave me a little bit more motivation and I gained more confidence in the bike. I’m feeling better and today was a positive day as I made no navigation mistakes, so I think we’re in a decent position for the Chrono Stage…”
Today’s 48 Hour Chrono Stage will will be the toughest test of this year’s event. Dakar Rally organizer David Castera already admitted he “won’t be gaining many fans” after the mega stage. “Hidden waypoints will prove to be a navigation nightmare if the fatigued competitors lose their focus.”
With a reverse starting order in place from today’s results, Quintanilla will be the one to benefit as he will set off last instead of having to break trail. With a total of 835 km to ride, the special will contribute a hefty 626 km as the Empty Quarter dunes at the halfway point of the 2024 Dakar Rally.
