Anaheim 1 winner Ryan Villopoto has told Racer X Online that he was relatively happy with the race track on an evening where many of his rivals expressed their dislike for the layout.

Monster Energy Kawasaki’s defending AMA Supercross champion was flawless in the 20-lap main event on Saturday night, leading from the outset and stretching out a demanding lead of around 20 seconds at one point.

The opening round featured a challenging track that lacked flow compared to years past, however Villopoto said that in some ways it made for a safer circuit.

“I liked the track because it was safe,” Villopoto told Racer X Online. “I think they can still do that and make it more like a regular supercross track.

“It was an odd track, but I think it wasn’t too bad. It made it tough to race a 450 on, because there were a lot of tight turns, and slow sections where you’re turning.

“It’s hard because of the weight of the bike and the power. It was okay though.”

Villopoto will take the red plate as series leader into this weekend’s second round of 17 at Phoenix in Arizona.