Im not trying to be a D**k. The bikes are the only reason I go to supercross. I am obsessed with these motorcycles I am a total nerd when it comes to stuff like this. I always want to know "how it works". Luckily for me I am in a position where I can ask "certain" people about these bikes and get an answer. These bikes are so far from what is purchased on the showroom it isn't funny. There are rumors that these factory bikes are only two speeds sometimes three speeds. They do that to save weight. They use one gear to start and the other one to run the track. Sometimes they need two gears to run the track.
Works bikes are a level above. Prime Example Martin Davalos. He was a top 10 guy last year and look at him this year. I went to a dealer show and talked to an ex pro who use to ride for Mitch. He said it is no accident that whoever rides a Monster Kawasaki has good results.
Bottom line is the Manufactures use the racing to sell parts to the public, but what is beneficial to the public may be detrimental to the racers. So the racers will use what ever they have to use to get the win. The manufactures want you to believe that they used OEM equipment to get there. But if you look at the actual parts not the stickers you will find this is not the case.