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MotoGP: Jack Miller Has COVID-19, Ducati Delays Team Launch

After being tested positive to Covid-19 on Wednesday 19th January, Jack Miller will not make it back to Europe in time to take part in the official 2022 team photoshoot session. Miller, who is asymptomatic, is currently in self-isolation in Australia and will do a second PCR test next week.

Therefore, the 2022 Ducati Lenovo Team Season Launch, initially scheduled for 28th January, will be postponed to 7th February 2022.

On 31st January, ahead of the official MotoGP Shakedown test (31st January – 2nd February) at Sepang International Circuit (Malaysia), that will see Michele Pirro and the Ducati Test Team take it to the track for the first time this year, the 2022 livery of the Ducati Lenovo Team bikes will be unveiled.

Jack Miller (#43, Ducati Lenovo Team):

“Unfortunately, I’ve been tested positive for Covid-19, which means I am unable to travel to Europe. I am still home in Australia and doing fine. Since I don’t have any symptoms, at least I can continue with my training. I miss you all and will see you in Sepang for the test.”

AFT: Vance & Hines Returns As Production Twins Sponsor

Vance & Hines Announces Progressive AFT Contingency Program and Returns as Presenting Sponsor of AFT Production Twins

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – Vance & Hines has announced the largest and most extensive Progressive American Flat Track contingency support program in its history for the 2022 season. Combined, the contingency sponsorships have the potential to put nearly $111,000 in the hands of Progressive AFT competitors this season.

Up significantly from 2021’s already impressive $73,650 potential total purse payout, Vance & Hines offers funds to the top ten finishers in every AFT Production Twins presented by Vance & Hines and AFT Singles class race and to the top five finishers in each Mission SuperTwins race.

Eligible race winners will earn $1,000 for each victory in AFT Production Twins, where Vance & Hines will continue to serve as presenting sponsor again in 2022. Meanwhile, eligible race winners in AFT Singles and Mission SuperTwins will earn $500 for each victory. Additionally, a $5,000 Championship Bonus is offered in all three classes.

“Our company is built on a foundation of racing and performance,” said Vance & Hines President Mike Kennedy. “These contingency payouts are just one of the ways we support riders who use our products.”

With 18 races on the Progressive AFT 2022 schedule, total potential payout in Progressive AFT is $110,850.

For full details and eligibility requirements, click here.

About Progressive American Flat Track

Progressive American Flat Track is the world’s premier dirt track motorcycle racing series and one of the longest-running championships in the history of motorsports. Sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing in Daytona Beach, Fla., the series is highly regarded as the most competitive form of dirt track motorcycle racing on the globe. For more information on Progressive American Flat Track, please visit us on the web, like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, check us out on Instagram and catch all the Progressive American Flat Track racing action on FOX Sports.

About Vance & Hines

The Vance & Hines brand has always been about enhancing the exhilaration of the motorcycle ride. It started over 40 years ago, when Terry Vance and Byron Hines were two young enthusiasts in the fledgling Southern California motorcycle drag race scene. Terry always wanted to go faster and Byron knew how to make that happen. In short order, their on-track success and innovation drew the attention of other racers, riders and motorcycle manufacturers, which ultimately translated to commercial demand for their products and services. Today, the Company’s mission and activity is the same; make bikes go faster on the racetrack and take those learnings to make impactful products for riders around the world. Since the Company’s inception in 1979, it has run factory race programs in partnership with Suzuki, Yamaha, Ducati and Harley-Davidson in drag racing, road racing and flat track. Vance & Hines is based in Santa Fe Springs CA and has its Racing Development Center is in Brownsburg IN. Learn more about the company’s history and products at www.vanceandhines.com.

MotoGP: Graham Bensinger Video Interview With Valentino Rossi, P3

Nine-time MotoGP champ Valentino Rossi invites us to tour a 200-year-old home he converted into as a racer’s paradise. Rossi shows off his dirt bikes and locker room, then takes Graham on a modified rally car ride around the big track in his 400 horsepower car… despite Rossi’s disgruntled track manager.

IN ITALIANO: Il nove volte campione della MotoGP Valentino Rossi ci invita a visitare la sua casa di 200 anni che funge anche da paradiso per i piloti. Rossi mostra le sue moto da cross e lo spogliatoio, poi porta Graham a fare un giro su un’auto da rally modificata da 400 cavalli sulla pista grande… nonostante il disappunto del manager di pista.

#ValentinoRossi #Racing #MotoGP

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Subscribe to watch the latest interviews: http://bit.ly/1R1Fd6w

Episode debuted nationwide in 2022.

For episode guide and nationwide television listings, visit www.grahambensinger.com

Connect with Graham:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GrahamBensinger

Twitter: https://twitter.com/GrahamBensinger

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/grahambensi…

 

Video: Suzuki Riders Go Head-To-Head

What happens when our MotoGP riders go head to head with Suzuki’s Endurance riders?! Who will win the quiz? @MotoGP #SUZUKing #AlexRins #JoanMir #SylvainGuintoli #GreggBlack #XavierSimeon

 

Ducati Certified As “Top Employer” In Italy For Eighth Consecutive Year

Ducati is Top Employer Italy 2022

Ducati certified as Top Employer Italy 2022 for the eighth consecutive year

The Bologna-based motorcycle manufacturer continues to work effectively to promote the value and well-being of its employees

Thanks to the management and initiatives in the Human Resources sector, the company has been able to maintain high its corporate results

Borgo Panigale, Bologna – Ducati has met the highest quality standards to be awarded the Top Employer Italy certification for the eighth year in a row. Despite the difficult challenges posed by the pandemic, the Bologna-based motorcycle manufacturer was able to offer its employees safe and excellent working conditions. These lay, on the one hand, in a functioning human resources strategy with people at the center, and, on the other hand, also in crisis management to deal with the emergency by a Covid-19 Task Force set up for this purpose, in which the trade unions are involved in addition to many areas of the company.

The Top Employer certification is an official recognition that is issued by the Top Employers Institute after a long evaluation process in which HR management practices and strategies are analysed, with particular attention to working conditions, training and growth of the personnel, family and social needs of employees.

Ducati is constantly committed to improving and optimizing its best practices in the field of Human Resources. This year, in addition to the efficient smart working organizational model, the enhancement of the increasingly heterogeneous and inclusive working environment, participation in environmental sustainability initiatives and projects, and investment in the digital training of its employees have all contributed to maintaining high company results.

“Receiving the prestigious Top Employer award for the eighth consecutive year is not only a great satisfaction, but a confirmation of the progress made in recent years and a demonstration of Ducati’s ability and readiness to react in the face of complexities”, said Sebastian Patta, Ducati Human Resources Director. “The protection and safety measures we have adopted so far have proved to be functional and efficient and these, combined with the policies implemented by our Human Resources and the dedication of our collaborators, have allowed Ducati to conclude 2021 with a sales record, registering the best year ever. Our employees are the real engine of the company and attention to those who dedicate themselves every day to its success with diligence, performance and commitment is fundamental for us. Therefore our thanks go first and foremost to the workforce of Ducati who give our company their professionalism, enthusiasm and passion for what they do”.

All information on the Top Employers Institute and the Top Employers Certification is available on the website www.top-employers.com

Moto2: American Racing Team Officially Introduced In California

American Racing Team officially introduced its riders for the 2022 FIM Moto2 World Championship, Cameron Beaubier and Sean Dylan Kelly, and their Triumph-powered Kalex motorcycles in an event held at a multi-million-dollar home in Southern California Tuesday, January 18.

The event was emceed by part-time reality TV star and full-time motorcycle enthusiast Barry Weiss and by American Racing Team owners Eitan Butbul and Avner Kass along with Team Director John “Hopper” Hopkins.

The event was also attended by motorcycle industry figures, including Mike Buckley, Senior Vice-President Sales, Marketing, and R&D at Dunlop Motorcycle Tires.

“This thing is bigger than I thought it would be,” said Beaubier, who just got married in December. “It’s pretty cool, and it’s pretty special having people from the American Racing Team, from MotoAmerica, from Dunlop, from Roadracing World, a lot of people who have helped me along the way and want to see us succeed over there. It’s a pretty cool evening.

“Eitan and Hopper said some pretty nice things about me, and I think it’s really cool with what they’re doing with the American Racing Academy and what they’re doing for American road racing on the world stage. It’s pretty special.”

Beaubier’s new rookie teammate Kelly just returned to America in December after spending more than a month traveling around Europe hitting track days on five different Grand Prix tracks on his new Kalex. The Florida resident then wrapped up his early education by being ninth-fastest at a multi-team test at Jerez in late-November.

“The bike, we all know it has a stiffer chassis, and that’s a game changer,” said Kelly, who won the 2021 MotoAmerica Supersport Championship on a Team M4 ECSTAR Suzuki GSX-R600. “It makes it so much different how you have to ride it, and it makes the limit that much higher. At the end of the day, that bike was made to race. On that bike, you go faster, then you go faster, then you go faster until you’re not and you’re on the floor. That’s what makes them so quick and so hard to ride. But it’s an incredible machine.”

Hopkins declared Beaubier a Championship contender and Kelly a potential Moto2 Rookie of the Year.

After a quick stop Thursday at Chuckwalla Valley Raceway for some photo and video work, American Racing Team will resume testing in Europe in February.

AHRMA Announces Advanced Riding Workshops

AHRMA announces 2022 Advanced Riding Technique Workshops

(Roseville, California) – The American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association (AHRMA) is taking road race skills to the next level.

AHRMA is teaming with Ed Bargy, its 2022 Official Starter, to offer his Ed Bargy LLC Advanced Track Riding Technique Workshop at select AHRMA track day events.

With a 12-student limit, these workshops will include classroom and on-track instruction of the high-performance racing techniques needed to be a successful track rider/racer.

“This is a great opportunity for currently licensed racers as well as non-racers who want to improve their skills and AHRMA is excited to offer this to our members,” said Brian Larrabure, 2022 Chairman of the AHRMA Board of Trustees.

 

2022 Advanced Track Riding Technique Workshop Schedule

February 17                 Roebling Road Raceway                     Bloomingdale, GA

March 17                     Carolina Motorsports Park                 Kershaw, SC

June 16                        New Jersey Motorsports Park            Millville, NJ

August 25                    Blackhawk Farms Raceway                 South Beloit, IL

For those new to road racing or needing a refresher, AHRMA is offering its Academy of Road Racing School at all events except for the AHRMA Classic MotoFest™ at Daytona (Daytona International Speedway), the AHRMA Classic MotoFest of Monterey (WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca) and the Barber Vintage Festival.  This class is taught by AHRMA Member, Mark Morrow.  Pass this class and be eligible to race with AHRMA the same weekend!

Questions should be directed to [email protected].

To register for the workshop or the school, go to ahrma.motorsportreg.com and create a free account or log in to an existing account. Once logged in, find the event for which you wish to register and follow the instructions.

About AHRMA:

The American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association Ltd. is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to restoring and competing on classic motorcycles. With about 3500 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.

Rossi Moor Will Contest Northern Talent Cup Again In 2022

2022 Northern Talent Cup Entry List revealed

Thursday, 20 January 2022

The Northern Talent Cup enters its third year of competition in 2022 and is set to race alongside the FIM MotoGP™ World Championship, IDM and, for the first time ever, the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship. The application period for 2022 closed on the 31st of December 2021, and the Entry List for the season ahead can now be revealed.

The maximum of 26 full-time riders are set to battle it out for the crown, including 13 rookies, with 10 countries represented: Austria, Belgium, Czechia, Denmark, Germany, Hungary, Italy, the Netherlands, Switzerland and Ukraine.

The seven-round, 14-race 2022 season sees the NTC race in five different countries on six different tracks, with competition set to begin at Le Mans alongside MotoGP™ in May.

 

NTC_EntryList_Newriders_2022_01_11

BMW Motorrad Posts Record Sales In 2021, U.S. Sales Up 32.1%

IN 2021 BMW MOTORRAD ACHIEVES THE BEST SALES RESULT IN ITS HISTORY WITH AN INCREASE OF 14.8 PERCENT

194,261 BMW motorcycles and scooters were delivered to customers worldwide.

Munich. BMW Motorrad finished the year with a record sales result despite major challenges. With 194,261 units (+14.8%), 2021 was the best year since BMW Motorrad was founded (previous year: 169,272).

Markus Schramm, Head of BMW Motorrad: “The fact that we still managed to finish 2021 with this fantastic result for BMW Motorrad not only makes me happy, but also incredibly proud. It’s precisely in times of crisis where you can see how well a team sticks together. This year, I would therefore like to express my special thanks to all employees as well as to the BMW Motorrad business partners, who made this success possible thanks to their personal commitment and flexibility. My sincere thanks also goes to our customers for their loyalty, trust and support.”

Strong sales growth in Europe and Asia.

Europe showed strong sales growth in 2021. Italy (16,034 units / +15.2 %), Spain (12,616 units / +14.4 %) and France (19,887 units / +13.4 %) were the most important growth drivers and able to continuously increase their sales figures. In total, 9,100 more vehicles were delivered in Europe, including Germany, than in the previous year. The Asian market is also continuing to expand. China (14,309 units / +21.4%) is also one of the strongest growth and volume markets in Asia with double-digit growth. India continues to develop strongly, posting an absolute top result with a growth of 102.5% and a remarkable 5,191 units.

Stable sales in Germany at a slight minus.

Germany remains by far the largest single market for BMW Motorrad. With 25,972 units sold, BMW Motorrad will again defend its position as the most successful motorcycle manufacturer in the German market in 2021.

Encouraging developments in the USA and Brazil.

The market in the USA also developed very positively for BMW Motorrad in 2021. With 16,030 motorcycles and scooters sold (previous year: 12,135 units), BMW Motorrad achieved an impressive +32.1% growth in the USA. Sales in Brazil are not growing quite as fast, but they are increasing steadily. With 11,150 vehicles sold (previous year: 10.707 units) and a growth of +4.1%, the South American market is among the top 7 BMW Motorrad markets in 2021.

Brexit has no noticeable impact on motorcycle sales.

Fortunately, the UK’s exit from the EU had no significant impact on the fun of riding on two wheels. With an increase of 26.6% and sales of 9,263 units in Great Britain/Ireland (previous year 7,315 units), the British market is proving to be stronger than ever before.

Boxer models remain the driving force.

A total of over 60,000 units of the two touring enduros R 1250 GS and GS Adventure alone, were delivered to customers in 2021. Sales of the traditionally strong R Series increased significantly overall. Thanks to the new top-of-the-line R 1250 RT tourer and the four emotional BMW cruisers from the R18 model family, sales figures in the flat-twin boxer segment once again grew strongly, accounting for around half of the total 194,261 vehicles sold.

MotoAmerica: Rodio Racing And Warhorse HSBK Racing Join Forces

Rodio Racing and Warhorse HSBK Racing Partner for 2022

Rodio Racing is proud to announce its partnership with Warhorse HSBK Racing for the MotoAmerica 2022 Race Season.

The partnership will put SportbikeTrackGear.com Junior Cup front runner Gus Rodio, and returning two-time Twins Cup race winner Anthony Mazziotto on Warhorse HSBK Racing-prepped Aprilia RS 660 machines. Rodio is adding this additional class while also competing in the Junior Cup for 2022.

“We’ve seen the level of professionalism Rodio Racing has brought to the paddock over the years, understand the success Mazziotto has had in the class, and appreciate the value of teamwork.” HSBK Racing principal Bobby Shek said.  “We have a long history with Aprilia Racing and it was in our best interest to make sure this brand gets the recognition it deserves in the MotoAmerica paddock. It seemed natural to extend our family to the Rodio Racing team, and give them the support they deserve with the Aprilia platform.” In its maiden year, the Aprilia RS 660 won more than half the Twins Cup races last season.

Rodio and Mazziotto have been long time friends on and off the track, with Mazziotto serving as a mentor for several years. The pair both live in Hammonton, New Jersey, train together and share pits whenever their schedules allow.

“It’s an obvious fit for us,” Kevin Rodio, team owner at Rodio Racing said. “We’ve known Mazz since our NJMiniGP days, so this is just a natural evolution. Having Warhorse HSBK Racing trust us with their Twins Cup program means a lot to us, and we’re excited to get the season started.”

When asked about doing double-duty between Junior Cup and Twins, Gus was nothing but excited. “I’ve only raced the Aprilia one weekend at Daytona so far, but it was a killer weekend, and I just want more,” he said. “You have to ride each bike a bit differently, but what racer doesn’t want more seat time, more competition and more opportunity in a race weekend?”

As for Mazziotto, “Gus is like my little bro, and I’m beyond stoked to be sharing the track with him. Kevin has always been a source of support for my racing, and I’m grateful Warhorse HSBK Racing is giving us the opportunity to attack the Twins class together.”

Catch the new team at Daytona International Speedway for the MotoAmerica season opener on March 10th.

 

MotoGP: Jack Miller Has COVID-19, Ducati Delays Team Launch

Jack Miller. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Jack Miller. Photo courtesy Dorna.

After being tested positive to Covid-19 on Wednesday 19th January, Jack Miller will not make it back to Europe in time to take part in the official 2022 team photoshoot session. Miller, who is asymptomatic, is currently in self-isolation in Australia and will do a second PCR test next week.

Therefore, the 2022 Ducati Lenovo Team Season Launch, initially scheduled for 28th January, will be postponed to 7th February 2022.

On 31st January, ahead of the official MotoGP Shakedown test (31st January – 2nd February) at Sepang International Circuit (Malaysia), that will see Michele Pirro and the Ducati Test Team take it to the track for the first time this year, the 2022 livery of the Ducati Lenovo Team bikes will be unveiled.

Jack Miller (#43, Ducati Lenovo Team):

“Unfortunately, I’ve been tested positive for Covid-19, which means I am unable to travel to Europe. I am still home in Australia and doing fine. Since I don’t have any symptoms, at least I can continue with my training. I miss you all and will see you in Sepang for the test.”

AFT: Vance & Hines Returns As Production Twins Sponsor

Aftermarket motorcycle exhaust system manufacturer Vance & Hines is the presenting sponsor of the 2021 American Flat Track (AFT) Production Twins Championship. Photo by Scott Hunter, courtesy AFT.
Aftermarket motorcycle exhaust system manufacturer Vance & Hines is the presenting sponsor of the 2022 American Flat Track (AFT) Production Twins Championship. Photo by Scott Hunter, courtesy AFT.

Vance & Hines Announces Progressive AFT Contingency Program and Returns as Presenting Sponsor of AFT Production Twins

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – Vance & Hines has announced the largest and most extensive Progressive American Flat Track contingency support program in its history for the 2022 season. Combined, the contingency sponsorships have the potential to put nearly $111,000 in the hands of Progressive AFT competitors this season.

Up significantly from 2021’s already impressive $73,650 potential total purse payout, Vance & Hines offers funds to the top ten finishers in every AFT Production Twins presented by Vance & Hines and AFT Singles class race and to the top five finishers in each Mission SuperTwins race.

Eligible race winners will earn $1,000 for each victory in AFT Production Twins, where Vance & Hines will continue to serve as presenting sponsor again in 2022. Meanwhile, eligible race winners in AFT Singles and Mission SuperTwins will earn $500 for each victory. Additionally, a $5,000 Championship Bonus is offered in all three classes.

“Our company is built on a foundation of racing and performance,” said Vance & Hines President Mike Kennedy. “These contingency payouts are just one of the ways we support riders who use our products.”

With 18 races on the Progressive AFT 2022 schedule, total potential payout in Progressive AFT is $110,850.

For full details and eligibility requirements, click here.

About Progressive American Flat Track

Progressive American Flat Track is the world’s premier dirt track motorcycle racing series and one of the longest-running championships in the history of motorsports. Sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing in Daytona Beach, Fla., the series is highly regarded as the most competitive form of dirt track motorcycle racing on the globe. For more information on Progressive American Flat Track, please visit us on the web, like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, check us out on Instagram and catch all the Progressive American Flat Track racing action on FOX Sports.

About Vance & Hines

The Vance & Hines brand has always been about enhancing the exhilaration of the motorcycle ride. It started over 40 years ago, when Terry Vance and Byron Hines were two young enthusiasts in the fledgling Southern California motorcycle drag race scene. Terry always wanted to go faster and Byron knew how to make that happen. In short order, their on-track success and innovation drew the attention of other racers, riders and motorcycle manufacturers, which ultimately translated to commercial demand for their products and services. Today, the Company’s mission and activity is the same; make bikes go faster on the racetrack and take those learnings to make impactful products for riders around the world. Since the Company’s inception in 1979, it has run factory race programs in partnership with Suzuki, Yamaha, Ducati and Harley-Davidson in drag racing, road racing and flat track. Vance & Hines is based in Santa Fe Springs CA and has its Racing Development Center is in Brownsburg IN. Learn more about the company’s history and products at www.vanceandhines.com.

MotoGP: Graham Bensinger Video Interview With Valentino Rossi, P3

Valentino Rossi . Photo courtesy Dorna.
Valentino Rossi. Photo courtesy Dorna.

Nine-time MotoGP champ Valentino Rossi invites us to tour a 200-year-old home he converted into as a racer’s paradise. Rossi shows off his dirt bikes and locker room, then takes Graham on a modified rally car ride around the big track in his 400 horsepower car… despite Rossi’s disgruntled track manager.

IN ITALIANO: Il nove volte campione della MotoGP Valentino Rossi ci invita a visitare la sua casa di 200 anni che funge anche da paradiso per i piloti. Rossi mostra le sue moto da cross e lo spogliatoio, poi porta Graham a fare un giro su un’auto da rally modificata da 400 cavalli sulla pista grande… nonostante il disappunto del manager di pista.

#ValentinoRossi #Racing #MotoGP

Become a member to watch full episodes and get exclusive access to content: https://bit.ly/3q4TjAb

Subscribe to watch the latest interviews: http://bit.ly/1R1Fd6w

Episode debuted nationwide in 2022.

For episode guide and nationwide television listings, visit www.grahambensinger.com

Connect with Graham:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GrahamBensinger

Twitter: https://twitter.com/GrahamBensinger

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/grahambensi…

 

Video: Suzuki Riders Go Head-To-Head

Sylvain Guintoli (center) hosts a quiz between Suzuki MotoGP riders Joan Mir and Alex Rins (left) and Suzuki endurance riders Gregg Black and Xavier Simeon (right). Photo courtesy Team Suzuki Press Office.
Sylvain Guintoli (center) hosts a quiz between Suzuki MotoGP riders Joan Mir and Alex Rins (left) and Suzuki endurance riders Gregg Black and Xavier Simeon (right). Photo courtesy Team Suzuki Press Office.

What happens when our MotoGP riders go head to head with Suzuki’s Endurance riders?! Who will win the quiz? @MotoGP #SUZUKing #AlexRins #JoanMir #SylvainGuintoli #GreggBlack #XavierSimeon

 

Ducati Certified As “Top Employer” In Italy For Eighth Consecutive Year

Ducati employees at Ducati's headquarters and factory in Italy. Photo courtesy Ducati.
Ducati employees at Ducati's headquarters and factory in Italy. Photo courtesy Ducati.

Ducati is Top Employer Italy 2022

Ducati certified as Top Employer Italy 2022 for the eighth consecutive year

The Bologna-based motorcycle manufacturer continues to work effectively to promote the value and well-being of its employees

Thanks to the management and initiatives in the Human Resources sector, the company has been able to maintain high its corporate results

Borgo Panigale, Bologna – Ducati has met the highest quality standards to be awarded the Top Employer Italy certification for the eighth year in a row. Despite the difficult challenges posed by the pandemic, the Bologna-based motorcycle manufacturer was able to offer its employees safe and excellent working conditions. These lay, on the one hand, in a functioning human resources strategy with people at the center, and, on the other hand, also in crisis management to deal with the emergency by a Covid-19 Task Force set up for this purpose, in which the trade unions are involved in addition to many areas of the company.

The Top Employer certification is an official recognition that is issued by the Top Employers Institute after a long evaluation process in which HR management practices and strategies are analysed, with particular attention to working conditions, training and growth of the personnel, family and social needs of employees.

Ducati is constantly committed to improving and optimizing its best practices in the field of Human Resources. This year, in addition to the efficient smart working organizational model, the enhancement of the increasingly heterogeneous and inclusive working environment, participation in environmental sustainability initiatives and projects, and investment in the digital training of its employees have all contributed to maintaining high company results.

“Receiving the prestigious Top Employer award for the eighth consecutive year is not only a great satisfaction, but a confirmation of the progress made in recent years and a demonstration of Ducati’s ability and readiness to react in the face of complexities”, said Sebastian Patta, Ducati Human Resources Director. “The protection and safety measures we have adopted so far have proved to be functional and efficient and these, combined with the policies implemented by our Human Resources and the dedication of our collaborators, have allowed Ducati to conclude 2021 with a sales record, registering the best year ever. Our employees are the real engine of the company and attention to those who dedicate themselves every day to its success with diligence, performance and commitment is fundamental for us. Therefore our thanks go first and foremost to the workforce of Ducati who give our company their professionalism, enthusiasm and passion for what they do”.

All information on the Top Employers Institute and the Top Employers Certification is available on the website www.top-employers.com

Moto2: American Racing Team Officially Introduced In California

Realty TV star, motorcycle enthusiast, and emcee Barry Weiss (front left, with microphone) introduces American Racing Team's (left to right from Weiss) Cameron Beaubier, John Hopkins, Eitan Butbul, Avner Kass, and Sean Dylan Kelly January 18 in Hidden Hills, California. Photo by David Swarts.
Realty TV star, motorcycle enthusiast, and emcee Barry Weiss (front left, with microphone) introduces American Racing Team's (left to right from Weiss) Cameron Beaubier, John Hopkins, Eitan Butbul, Avner Kass, and Sean Dylan Kelly January 18 in Hidden Hills, California. Photo by David Swarts.

American Racing Team officially introduced its riders for the 2022 FIM Moto2 World Championship, Cameron Beaubier and Sean Dylan Kelly, and their Triumph-powered Kalex motorcycles in an event held at a multi-million-dollar home in Southern California Tuesday, January 18.

The event was emceed by part-time reality TV star and full-time motorcycle enthusiast Barry Weiss and by American Racing Team owners Eitan Butbul and Avner Kass along with Team Director John “Hopper” Hopkins.

The event was also attended by motorcycle industry figures, including Mike Buckley, Senior Vice-President Sales, Marketing, and R&D at Dunlop Motorcycle Tires.

“This thing is bigger than I thought it would be,” said Beaubier, who just got married in December. “It’s pretty cool, and it’s pretty special having people from the American Racing Team, from MotoAmerica, from Dunlop, from Roadracing World, a lot of people who have helped me along the way and want to see us succeed over there. It’s a pretty cool evening.

“Eitan and Hopper said some pretty nice things about me, and I think it’s really cool with what they’re doing with the American Racing Academy and what they’re doing for American road racing on the world stage. It’s pretty special.”

Beaubier’s new rookie teammate Kelly just returned to America in December after spending more than a month traveling around Europe hitting track days on five different Grand Prix tracks on his new Kalex. The Florida resident then wrapped up his early education by being ninth-fastest at a multi-team test at Jerez in late-November.

“The bike, we all know it has a stiffer chassis, and that’s a game changer,” said Kelly, who won the 2021 MotoAmerica Supersport Championship on a Team M4 ECSTAR Suzuki GSX-R600. “It makes it so much different how you have to ride it, and it makes the limit that much higher. At the end of the day, that bike was made to race. On that bike, you go faster, then you go faster, then you go faster until you’re not and you’re on the floor. That’s what makes them so quick and so hard to ride. But it’s an incredible machine.”

Hopkins declared Beaubier a Championship contender and Kelly a potential Moto2 Rookie of the Year.

After a quick stop Thursday at Chuckwalla Valley Raceway for some photo and video work, American Racing Team will resume testing in Europe in February.

AHRMA Announces Advanced Riding Workshops

AHRMA will now offer basic and advanced rider training at selected 2022 events. Photo by etechphoto.com, courtesy AHRMA.
AHRMA will now offer basic and advanced rider training at selected 2022 events. Photo by etechphoto.com, courtesy AHRMA.

AHRMA announces 2022 Advanced Riding Technique Workshops

(Roseville, California) – The American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association (AHRMA) is taking road race skills to the next level.

AHRMA is teaming with Ed Bargy, its 2022 Official Starter, to offer his Ed Bargy LLC Advanced Track Riding Technique Workshop at select AHRMA track day events.

With a 12-student limit, these workshops will include classroom and on-track instruction of the high-performance racing techniques needed to be a successful track rider/racer.

“This is a great opportunity for currently licensed racers as well as non-racers who want to improve their skills and AHRMA is excited to offer this to our members,” said Brian Larrabure, 2022 Chairman of the AHRMA Board of Trustees.

 

2022 Advanced Track Riding Technique Workshop Schedule

February 17                 Roebling Road Raceway                     Bloomingdale, GA

March 17                     Carolina Motorsports Park                 Kershaw, SC

June 16                        New Jersey Motorsports Park            Millville, NJ

August 25                    Blackhawk Farms Raceway                 South Beloit, IL

For those new to road racing or needing a refresher, AHRMA is offering its Academy of Road Racing School at all events except for the AHRMA Classic MotoFest™ at Daytona (Daytona International Speedway), the AHRMA Classic MotoFest of Monterey (WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca) and the Barber Vintage Festival.  This class is taught by AHRMA Member, Mark Morrow.  Pass this class and be eligible to race with AHRMA the same weekend!

Questions should be directed to [email protected].

To register for the workshop or the school, go to ahrma.motorsportreg.com and create a free account or log in to an existing account. Once logged in, find the event for which you wish to register and follow the instructions.

About AHRMA:

The American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association Ltd. is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to restoring and competing on classic motorcycles. With about 3500 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.

Rossi Moor Will Contest Northern Talent Cup Again In 2022

Rossi Moor (92) won Northern Talent Cup Race Two at Assen. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Hungarian-American Rossi Moor (92), who was born in Oregon, on his way to victory in Northern Talent Cup Race Two at Assen in 2021. Photo courtesy Dorna.

2022 Northern Talent Cup Entry List revealed

Thursday, 20 January 2022

The Northern Talent Cup enters its third year of competition in 2022 and is set to race alongside the FIM MotoGP™ World Championship, IDM and, for the first time ever, the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship. The application period for 2022 closed on the 31st of December 2021, and the Entry List for the season ahead can now be revealed.

The maximum of 26 full-time riders are set to battle it out for the crown, including 13 rookies, with 10 countries represented: Austria, Belgium, Czechia, Denmark, Germany, Hungary, Italy, the Netherlands, Switzerland and Ukraine.

The seven-round, 14-race 2022 season sees the NTC race in five different countries on six different tracks, with competition set to begin at Le Mans alongside MotoGP™ in May.

 

NTC_EntryList_Newriders_2022_01_11

BMW Motorrad Posts Record Sales In 2021, U.S. Sales Up 32.1%

BMW's new R 18 Transcontinental (left) and R 18 B "Bagger" (right). Photo courtesy BMW Motorrad.
BMW's new R 18 Transcontinental (left) and R 18 B "Bagger" (right). Photo courtesy BMW Motorrad USA.

IN 2021 BMW MOTORRAD ACHIEVES THE BEST SALES RESULT IN ITS HISTORY WITH AN INCREASE OF 14.8 PERCENT

194,261 BMW motorcycles and scooters were delivered to customers worldwide.

Munich. BMW Motorrad finished the year with a record sales result despite major challenges. With 194,261 units (+14.8%), 2021 was the best year since BMW Motorrad was founded (previous year: 169,272).

Markus Schramm, Head of BMW Motorrad: “The fact that we still managed to finish 2021 with this fantastic result for BMW Motorrad not only makes me happy, but also incredibly proud. It’s precisely in times of crisis where you can see how well a team sticks together. This year, I would therefore like to express my special thanks to all employees as well as to the BMW Motorrad business partners, who made this success possible thanks to their personal commitment and flexibility. My sincere thanks also goes to our customers for their loyalty, trust and support.”

Strong sales growth in Europe and Asia.

Europe showed strong sales growth in 2021. Italy (16,034 units / +15.2 %), Spain (12,616 units / +14.4 %) and France (19,887 units / +13.4 %) were the most important growth drivers and able to continuously increase their sales figures. In total, 9,100 more vehicles were delivered in Europe, including Germany, than in the previous year. The Asian market is also continuing to expand. China (14,309 units / +21.4%) is also one of the strongest growth and volume markets in Asia with double-digit growth. India continues to develop strongly, posting an absolute top result with a growth of 102.5% and a remarkable 5,191 units.

Stable sales in Germany at a slight minus.

Germany remains by far the largest single market for BMW Motorrad. With 25,972 units sold, BMW Motorrad will again defend its position as the most successful motorcycle manufacturer in the German market in 2021.

Encouraging developments in the USA and Brazil.

The market in the USA also developed very positively for BMW Motorrad in 2021. With 16,030 motorcycles and scooters sold (previous year: 12,135 units), BMW Motorrad achieved an impressive +32.1% growth in the USA. Sales in Brazil are not growing quite as fast, but they are increasing steadily. With 11,150 vehicles sold (previous year: 10.707 units) and a growth of +4.1%, the South American market is among the top 7 BMW Motorrad markets in 2021.

Brexit has no noticeable impact on motorcycle sales.

Fortunately, the UK’s exit from the EU had no significant impact on the fun of riding on two wheels. With an increase of 26.6% and sales of 9,263 units in Great Britain/Ireland (previous year 7,315 units), the British market is proving to be stronger than ever before.

Boxer models remain the driving force.

A total of over 60,000 units of the two touring enduros R 1250 GS and GS Adventure alone, were delivered to customers in 2021. Sales of the traditionally strong R Series increased significantly overall. Thanks to the new top-of-the-line R 1250 RT tourer and the four emotional BMW cruisers from the R18 model family, sales figures in the flat-twin boxer segment once again grew strongly, accounting for around half of the total 194,261 vehicles sold.

MotoAmerica: Rodio Racing And Warhorse HSBK Racing Join Forces

Anthony Mazziotto (516). Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
Anthony Mazziotto (516) in action on an Aprilia RS 660 in 2021. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.

Rodio Racing and Warhorse HSBK Racing Partner for 2022

Rodio Racing is proud to announce its partnership with Warhorse HSBK Racing for the MotoAmerica 2022 Race Season.

The partnership will put SportbikeTrackGear.com Junior Cup front runner Gus Rodio, and returning two-time Twins Cup race winner Anthony Mazziotto on Warhorse HSBK Racing-prepped Aprilia RS 660 machines. Rodio is adding this additional class while also competing in the Junior Cup for 2022.

“We’ve seen the level of professionalism Rodio Racing has brought to the paddock over the years, understand the success Mazziotto has had in the class, and appreciate the value of teamwork.” HSBK Racing principal Bobby Shek said.  “We have a long history with Aprilia Racing and it was in our best interest to make sure this brand gets the recognition it deserves in the MotoAmerica paddock. It seemed natural to extend our family to the Rodio Racing team, and give them the support they deserve with the Aprilia platform.” In its maiden year, the Aprilia RS 660 won more than half the Twins Cup races last season.

Rodio and Mazziotto have been long time friends on and off the track, with Mazziotto serving as a mentor for several years. The pair both live in Hammonton, New Jersey, train together and share pits whenever their schedules allow.

“It’s an obvious fit for us,” Kevin Rodio, team owner at Rodio Racing said. “We’ve known Mazz since our NJMiniGP days, so this is just a natural evolution. Having Warhorse HSBK Racing trust us with their Twins Cup program means a lot to us, and we’re excited to get the season started.”

When asked about doing double-duty between Junior Cup and Twins, Gus was nothing but excited. “I’ve only raced the Aprilia one weekend at Daytona so far, but it was a killer weekend, and I just want more,” he said. “You have to ride each bike a bit differently, but what racer doesn’t want more seat time, more competition and more opportunity in a race weekend?”

As for Mazziotto, “Gus is like my little bro, and I’m beyond stoked to be sharing the track with him. Kevin has always been a source of support for my racing, and I’m grateful Warhorse HSBK Racing is giving us the opportunity to attack the Twins class together.”

Catch the new team at Daytona International Speedway for the MotoAmerica season opener on March 10th.

 

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