True race-bred GP machines took to the track at Barber Motorsports Park on Saturday, October 4, as riders competed for a $6,300 prize purse in the Open Two-Stroke class at the 20th Barber Vintage Festival. The American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association (AHRMA) event featured bikes ranging from 125cc to 750cc, drawing more than 20 competitors eager to showcase their speed and skill.
Nine competitors raced on 125cc bikes, ten on 250cc machines, and four in the larger 250cc+ category, which included, two 500cc bikes, one being a Suter, and two Yamaha TZ750s. After fierce competition, Ralph Staropoli claimed the overall victory aboard his 2002 Honda RS250. Close behind was Benjamin Walters on his Yamaha TZ750 and Oliver Hutchison riding a 2007 Yamaha TZ250.
Staropoli not only raced but also organized the prize fund, securing sponsorship from several anonymous AHRMA racers, Rising Sun Cycles, Iconic Motorbikes, and Mojo Yamaha for a total purse of $6,300. All Points Manufacturing specifically contributed the portion of the purse designated for racers finishing fifth through tenth. Bridgestone Tires also donated a set of race tires to the overall winner.
The event marked another thrilling chapter in the AHRMA National Roadracing Series presented by Motobilia, showcasing the enduring appeal of two-stroke machines and the passion of vintage motorcycle enthusiasts.
Winners of the 250cc plus class:
1st – Benjamin Walters TZ750
2nd – Adrian Jasso Suter 500
3rd – David Crussell TZ750
Winners of the 250cc class:
1st – Ralph Staropoli RS250
2nd – Oliver Hutchison TZ250
3rd – Sven Bley RS250
Winners of the 125cc class:
1st – Jonathan Schendel TZ125
2nd – Jordan Reid RS125
3rd – Holly Varey TZ125
“This year’s race was a great success, and we’re excited to keep building on that momentum—growing the purse and the grid entries each year,” shared Staropoli, prize fund organizer and AHRMA member.
About Rising Sun Cycles
Rising Sun Cycles have been importers of new and used Yamaha and Honda Grand Prix road-racing motorcycles and replacement parts and accessories since 1997. They possess a rock-solid reputation of providing fast shipping, support, and satisfaction and pride themselves on giving their customers the best service available, the best parts and accessories, and a staff that understands all aspects of our business.
About Iconic Motorbikes
Iconic Motorbikes is a leading motorbike, memorabilia, and parts online platform that lists and sells items worldwide. No other auction site offers their level of white-glove services, which make them a one-stop shop: requests are received daily for service work, paint work, custom builds, import/export, domestic transport, and sourcing of any motorbikes and/or parts. At Iconic Motorbikes, customers not only find their dream bike, but are also able to have it fully serviced and delivered ready to ride. If you can dream it up, their team will make it happen.
About All Points Manufacturing
All Points Manufacturing’s mission is to provide customizable formulation, manufacturing, and co-packing solutions for the functional food and nutritional supplements industries. APM’s formulations and operations adhere to a strict quality regimen dictated by their quality manual, stressing product quality and safety through development and production, from the conception of an idea to a ready for sale finished good, ensuring satisfaction for the customer and most importantly their customers. FDA Registered, cGMP, Kosher, Organic and Informed Sport certified.
About Mojo Yamaha
Mojo Yamaha is a motorcycle racing team focused on classic Yamahas. The team runs monster Formula One racers based on the Yamaha FJ1100 engine pushed out to nearly 1300cc by Larry Cook Racing, as well as the legendary 2-stroke, the Yamaha TZ750. All bikes are housed in frames produced by the renown builder Denis Curtis at CMR Racing. Josh Hayes and Mojo Yamaha won Race 4 of the International Challenge the Phillip Island Classic in 2019.
About Bridgestone
Bridgestone Tires offers tires for all types of motorcycles including road and off road racing.
About AHRMA
The American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association (AHRMA) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to competing on fantastic classic and true vintage along with a wide range of modern motorcycles. With nearly 3,000 members, AHRMA is the largest vintage racing group in North America and one of the biggest in the world. The association has grown steadily over the years, reflecting the increasing interest in classic bikes.
