Wayne Rainey To Ride Again In Goodwood Festival Of Speed
Three-Time World Champion To Be Reunited With Yamaha YZR500
Goodwood is proud to announce that three-time 500cc World Motorcycle Champion Wayne Rainey will make his first appearance at the Goodwood Festival of Speed presented by Mastercard (June 23-26).
Renowned for its unrestricted access to the mighty machines of motorsport and the riders and drivers who made them famous, this year’s Festival of Speed will be no exception. Across the weekend, fans will be able to watch Rainey take to the iconic Goodwood hillclimb on the Yamaha YZR500, with which he won the 1992 World Championship 30 years ago.
Goodwood is delighted that the Festival of Speed will reunite Rainey with a racing bike for the first time in 29 years, following the accident at the 1993 Italian Grand Prix that left him paralyzed from the chest down. Rainey’s exploits at the Festival of Speed follow his first return to riding in 2019 at the Sound of Engine Festival in Suzuka, Japan.
As we prepare to celebrate ‘The Innovators – Masterminds of Motorsport’, Rainey’s ride will be made possible by the innovation of the Yamaha Motor Company as they reconfigure the 30-year-old Yamaha YZR500 so it can be ridden using handlebar controls alone. Rainey himself has masterminded his way through a career in motorsport spanning four decades, first as a three-time World Champion, then as a team manager, and currently as President of MotoAmerica.
Wayne Rainey said: “I’m incredibly excited to not only be attending my first Goodwood Festival of Speed this summer, but to be riding my 1992 Yamaha YZR500 up the famous hillclimb. It’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and one that I just couldn’t pass up. I want to thank the Yamaha Motor Company for preparing my 1992 YZR500 and adapting it for me to ride, MotoAmerica for helping make the entire project fly, and The Duke of Richmond for really making this a reality. I can’t wait to meet the fans who come from all over the world for the Goodwood Festival of Speed.”
Lin Jarvis, Managing Director of Yamaha Motor Racing Srl said: “The Goodwood Festival of Speed is an amazing event that is a showcase for two and four-wheel motorsports legends – both human and mechanical. Wayne Rainey is a true motorcycle racing legend who achieved three 500cc World Titles with Yamaha before his career-ending accident and injury. The thought of Wayne riding the legendary 1992 Factory YZR500 bike that he rode to his final championship victory is something truly amazing that I for one never imagined could be possible. I know it will mean so much to Wayne, and it will be something truly special for all the fans at Goodwood and all around the world. We are proud to be able to support Wayne make his dream come true.”
The Duke of Richmond said: “I am absolutely delighted that Wayne and his family are able to join us at this year’s Festival of Speed and that we will see him take to the Hill on the bike with which he won his last World Championship 30 years ago. Every year the Festival showcases spectacular stories from the world of motorsport, and we are privileged that Wayne is sharing his with us this summer.”
Wayne Rainey
With 82 500cc Grand Prix starts, Wayne Rainey won 24 races and took 64 podiums while his battles with arch-rival Kevin Schwantz have become the stuff of motorcycling legend. At the time of his accident in 1993 he was leading the World Motorcycle Championship and was just three races away from winning his fourth title.
Following his accident, Rainey became the team manager of the Marlboro Yamaha Team before retiring in 1998. He was inducted into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in 1999 and the International Motorsports Hall of Fame in 2007, named a FIM Grand Prix ‘Legend’ in 2000 and has a corner of the Laguna Seca Circuit named in his honour.
Savings to be made on tickets bought before 1 April 2022
Those planning to attend the Festival of Speed this summer have the opportunity to save on tickets when bought by 31 March 2022. The 2022 Festival of Speed qualifies for the UK Government’s ‘creative industry tax relief’, with a reduced VAT rate of 12.5% until 31 March 2022. We are pleased to be able to pass this saving on to our customers, which will apply to a number of entry products. Ticket prices will remain at the reduced VAT rate until the end of March, when it will return to the full rate of 20% from 1 April 2022.
About MotoAmerica
MotoAmerica is the North American road racing series created in 2014 that is home to the AMA Superbike Championship. MotoAmerica is an affiliate of KRAVE Group LLC, a partnership that includes three-time 500cc World Champion, two-time AMA Superbike Champion, and AMA Hall of Famer Wayne Rainey, ex-racer and former manager of Team Roberts Chuck Aksland, motorsports marketing executive Terry Karges, and businessman Richard Varner. For more information on MotoAmerica, visit www.MotoAmerica.com. Also make sure to follow MotoAmerica on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
The Roadracing World 2022 Reader Survey, Part 2, was brought to you by D.I.D. and Woodcraft.
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Woodcraft Frame Sliders with optional NEW Cerakote Colored Inserts give your bike a custom look with Woodcraft’s standard of race-level protection. These sliders offer the energy absorption of a plastic puck with the durable great looks of Cerakote colored aluminum. Our patented perpendicular mounting bolt design is far less likely to be damaged in a crash than traditional center mount sliders. This makes for easy puck replacement and creates more sliding surface area for greater durability. Available in four colors: Red, Blue, Gold, and Green. Frame Slider Kits with Cerakote Inserts start at $89.99. For more information, contact Woodcraft Technologies, Dept. RW, 105 Baldwinville Rd., Winchendon, MA 01475, (978)-297-2977. [email protected], www.woodcraft-cfm.com.
Survey results are used to improve content for readers and marketing for our advertisers. Name and address required for prize drawing. Entrants will automatically receive a free three-issue trial subscription to Roadracing World magazine with no obligation. No mailing list or confidential individual information is shared with third parties. Roadracing World’s privacy policy can be viewed here. To sign up to receive upcoming, short installments of future Roadracing World reader surveys and other promotional e-mails from Roadracing World, CLICK HERE.
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AHRMA’s 2022 Vintage Cup Roebling Road Raceway Race Recap
(February 22, 2022, Elora, Tennessee) – Motorcycles that are mostly hiding away in personal collections showed they can still deliver on the racetrack during the second race weekend of the 2022 Bridgestone Tires American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association (AHRMA) National Historic Cup Roadracing Series February 19-20 at Roebling Road Raceway, near Savannah, Georgia.
“It looks like this is going to be an exciting group. There are a lot of bikes being built right now that will be coming out for future races this year, and we are building steam,” said Brian Larrabure, 2022 Chair of the AHRMA Board of Trustees.
The 2022 Vintage Cup class sponsored by RoadracingWorld.com, featuring Vintage Superbike Heavyweight, was a highlight of the event. Jeremy Maddrill, from Stiger, Illinois, won both races on a 1979 Kawasaki KZ650. Maddrill custom built his bike between the season opener at Daytona and Roebling Road using a motor purchased at the AHRMA Classic MotoFest™ Swap Meet, after blowing his original engine while racing at Daytona.
There were six bikes on the grid in Vintage Superbike Heavyweight on each day of the event with some racers crossing the country to compete.
Saturday’s race had the Vintage Superbike Heavyweight class gridded behind Sound of Thunder 3 (SOT3). Maddrill’s strategy was to use the SOT3 traffic going into Turn One to his advantage to gap the rest of the field, which he did, taking the lead. Maddrill was able to keep the lead throughout the race on his way to taking the checkered flag first.
Kevin Rammer, from Newnan, Georgia, on a 1982 Honda CB650SC, and Robert Ringnalda, from Columbus, Ohio, aboard a 1979 Honda CBX1000, were in a heated battle with Rammer going off-road at one point. Rammer was able to come back, pass Ringnalda, and start reeling in Maddrill, but Rammer finished a bikelength behind Maddrill in second place. Ringnalda got third. Rounding out the results, William Brint, from Mount Airy, Georgia, riding a 1979 Honda CBX, finished fourth, Rian Mondriaan, from Bradenton, Florida, on a 1982 Honda CB900F, placed fifth, and Warren Wilson, from Indianapolis, Indiana, on a 1982 Kawasaki GPZ 750, got sixth.
On Sunday, the race grids were modified so that Vintage Superbike Heavyweight was in front of SOT3, putting Maddrill on pole and preventing him from using Saturday’s race strategy to his advantage. Brint was the first racer through Turn One with Maddrill in second position and followed by Ringnalda. The race was red-flagged on the opening lap and was restarted, albeit for six laps instead of the original eight.
At the restart, Brint was once again first to clear Turn One. Ringnalda was second followed by Maddrill. Ringnalda took the lead from Brint and held it until his bike experienced mechanical issues, forcing him to retire and leaving Brint and Maddrill to battle for first.
Maddrill finally squeezed past Brint in Turn Five and held the lead to the checkered flag. Brint had to work for second place after Rammer passed him coming out of Turn Six, but Brint was able to out motor Rammer 300 feet before the finish line to take second. Rammer was third, Mondriaan got fourth, Wilson placed fifth, and Ringnalda was scored sixth.
The 2022 Vintage Cup Trophy will be awarded to the Vintage Superbike Heavyweight class winner at select events including High Plains Raceway, Thunderhill Raceway Park, Heartland Motorsports Park, New Jersey Motorsports Park, Weathertech Raceway Laguna Seca, Ridge Motorsports Park, and Barber Motorsports Park. The Vintage Superbike Heavyweight class is sponsored by International CBX Owners Association (ICOA). Race dates and event registration links are available at: ahrma.org/schedules-results.
AHRMA National Historic Cup Roadracing Series Vintage Superbike Heavyweight Results – Saturday, February 19, 2022
Jeremy Maddrill, 1979 Kawasaki KZ 650, Steger, IL
Kevin Rammer, 1982 Honda CB650SC, Newnan, GA
Robert Ringnalda, 1979 Honda CBX1000, Columbus, OH
William Brint, 1979 Honda CBX, Mount Airy, GA
Rian Mondriaan, 1982 Honda CB900F, Bradenton, FL
Warren Wilson, 1982 Kawasaki GPZ 750, Indianapolis, IN
AHRMA National Historic Cup Roadracing Series Vintage Superbike Heavyweight Results – Sunday, February 20, 2022
Jeremy Maddrill, 1979 Kawasaki KZ 650, Steger, IL
William Brint, 1979 Honda CBX, Mount Airy, GA
Kevin Rammer, 1982 Honda CB650SC, Newnan, GA
Rian Mondriaan, 1982 Honda CB900F, Bradenton, FL
Warren Wilson, 1982 Kawasaki GPZ 750, Indianapolis, IN
Robert Ringnalda, 1979 Honda CBX1000, Columbus, OH
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.
MINNEAPOLIS, MN – FEBRUARY 22, 2022 – Indian Motorcycle, America’s First Motorcycle Company, today unleashed the next generation of American V-Twin touring performance with the launch of the Indian Pursuit. Featuring the liquid-cooled PowerPlus engine, seamless ride-enhancing technology, a chassis-mounted fairing, and loads of touring amenities, the 2022 Indian Pursuit stakes its claim as the most capable and refined American touring machine on the road.
Packed with unparalleled comfort and performance, the Indian Pursuit was thoughtfully engineered for discerning riders who value the journey as much as the destination. Available in two models with two trim levels for each, riders can select from four total offerings to fit their personal style and riding preferences. Models include the Pursuit Dark Horse and Pursuit Limited – each available with a premium package that offers advanced ride-enhancing technology and additional comfort features.
A 2022-model Indian Pursuit Dark Horse at rest. Photo courtesy Indian Motorcycle.
“Touring bikes are one of the ultimate expressions of freedom – enabling unforgettable experiences through longer escapes and epic adventures on the open road,” said Mike Dougherty, President for Indian Motorcycle. “With Pursuit, we’ve expanded on the unparalleled sophistication of the PowerPlus motor to deliver a class-leading, fully-loaded touring machine that combines top-tier performance with unparalleled comfort and advanced tech features, delivering an American V-twin touring experience unlike any other.”
At the heart of each model is the Indian Motorcycle PowerPlus engine, a 108 cubic-inch, liquid-cooled V-twin that delivers a class-leading 122 horsepower and 128 ft-lbs. of torque. Each 2022 Pursuit model features a refined PowerPlus calibration, which improves low-speed drivability and further enhances the rider experience.
Each Indian Pursuit model is designed for optimal comfort for long, epic journeys. The adjustable windscreen and vented lower fairings provide superior protection from the elements, and a heightened level of flexibility to adjust to varying weather and temperature conditions. Heated grips keep riders’ hands warm in cold weather, while the Pursuit’s new Touring Comfort seat delivers unprecedented comfort. In addition, a premium cargo trunk and spacious saddlebags combine for more than 35 gallons of power-locking storage – allowing riders to pack everything they need for longer rides.
Features for each Pursuit model are capped off with an industry-leading seven-inch touchscreen display powered by RIDE COMMAND. With RIDE COMMAND+, the touchscreen display offers Apple CarPlay®, GPS with turn-by-turn navigation and a free year of RIDE COMMAND+ connected features, including live traffic and weather overlays, and an all-new vehicle locator feature. The new vehicle locator feature adds a sense of security, as riders can visit the Indian Motorcycle RIDE COMMAND mobile app or website to track their bike’s last location where it was powered on.
A 2022-model Indian Pursuit Limited at rest. Photo courtesy Indian Motorcycle.
Riders looking to take their journey to the next level can do so with the Indian Pursuit Dark Horse with Premium Package and Indian Pursuit Limited with Premium Package. Each model features an all-new electronically adjustable rear suspension preload from Fox®, which allows riders to adjust their preload for optimal comfort and handling under varying conditions. Whether riding solo, two-up or carrying more cargo – the electronically adjustable rear suspension preload is managed from the convenience of the bike’s infotainment system. The new electronic preload is standard on Premium package models and is also available as an accessory upgrade for standard Indian Pursuit Dark Horse, Indian Pursuit Limited, and all Indian Challenger models.
In addition, both premium models offer intuitive Smart Lean Technology, which keeps riders confidently grounded by utilizing a Bosch® IMU to add cornering control to the dynamic traction control and ABS. The two premium offerings also feature integrated driving lights within the lower fairings and a premium styled heated seat for improved comfort during cold weather.
To add power and custom-inspired styling to Indian Pursuit models, Indian Motorcycle offers several performance accessories. The PowerPlus Air Cleaner complements the bike with a deeper intake sound, while the PowerPlus Stage 2 Performance Cams deliver 10% more horsepower and 3% more torque.
Indian Pursuit riders looking to further personalize their ride can do so with two kit options for their Hard Lower Fairings, a set of Mitered Mid-Rise Handlebars, LED lighting options, and various soft luggage pieces. To further utilize the space within the Pursuit’s Hard Lower Fairings, riders can add additional storage compartments or integrate an Indian Motorcycle PowerBand Audio Kit. When fully upgraded with PowerBand Audio, riders will experience surround sound with four points, including front fairing, lower fairings, saddlebags and cargo trunk. The Indian Motorcycle Mitered Mid-Rise Handlebars not only add a stylish custom look, but also place the upper controls in a comfortable, elevated position. Riders can also add LED lighting for enhanced visibility, including an Adaptive LED Headlight option that automatically optimizes where light shines based on the bike’s lean angle. And finally, riders can choose from four versatile pieces in the Spirit Lake Luggage Collection for protected, organized gear that’s easy to attach and detach from the bike.
Pricing for the Indian Pursuit Dark Horse begins at $30,999 and $33,999 for the Pursuit Dark Horse with Premium Package. Paint options for both trims include, Black Smoke, Spirit Blue, Silver Quartz Smoke, and Ruby Metallic over Black Metallic.
The Indian Pursuit Limited starts at $29,999, while the Pursuit Limited with Premium Package begins at $32,999. Paint options for both trims include, Black Metallic, Deepwater Metallic and Maroon Metallic over Crimson Metallic.
The 2022 Pursuit lineup will begin shipping to Indian Motorcycle dealers throughout the U.S. and Canada in early 2022.
Riders can learn more at their local Indian Motorcycle dealership by visiting IndianMotorcycle.com, or by following along on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
ABOUT INDIAN MOTORCYCLE®
Indian Motorcycle is America’s First Motorcycle Company®. Founded in 1901, Indian Motorcycle has won the hearts of motorcyclists around the world and earned distinction as one of America’s most legendary and iconic brands through unrivaled racing dominance, engineering prowess and countless innovations and industry firsts. Today that heritage and passion is reignited under new brand stewardship. To learn more, please visit www.indianmotorcycle.com.
Apple CARPLAY® is a registered trademark of Apple Inc.; BOSCH® is registered to Robert Bosch GmbH; FOX® is a registered trademark of Fox Factory Inc.; Unless noted, trademarks are the property of Indian Motorcycle International, LLC.
The Grand Prix Commission, composed of Messrs. Carmelo Ezpeleta (Dorna, Chairman), Paul Duparc (FIM), Herve Poncharal (IRTA), and Biense Bierma (MSMA), in an electronic meeting held on 4 February 2022 made the following decision:
Sporting Regulations
EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY
Race Classification in an Interrupted Race
Previously, if a race was red flagged and a final result declared, the result was taken from the lap on which all riders had last crossed the finish line. If a rider or several riders were half a lap or more behind the race leader, this caused the race classification to be taken from the previous lap, even when the race leader and the majority of the field had completed the next lap. In these cases, any position changes or crashes on the race leader’s final lap were rendered moot.
Effective immediately, the result of a red flagged race will now be taken from the last time the race leader crosses the finish line before the red flag is shown. All riders who cross the finish line on the same lap as the leader before the red flag will be classified in that order, as a partial classification.
Any riders who do not cross the finish line on the same lap as the leader before the red flag is shown will be classified based on where they crossed the finish line on the previous lap.
These two partial classifications will be combined to provide the final race result.
This system previously applied to races that were red flagged after the race leader had taken the chequered flag, and will now apply to all red flagged races for which a final result is declared.
2022 KTM 890 DUKE GP – A NEW DUKE STEPS INTO THE RING WITH A UNIQUE GP-INSPIRED LIVERY
February 22, 2022
MURRIETA, Calif. – KTM North America, Inc. is excited to announce the addition of the KTM 890 DUKE GP to the 2022 DUKE lineup, an exciting visual alternative with a GP-derived livery and a loud KTM orange palette. Complete with a new passenger seat cover, adding to its aggressive styling and ‘R’ style orange wheels, the KTM 890 DUKE GP proudly makes its intentions known.
The KTM 890 DUKE GP presents a compact and well-balanced performance motorcycle made for riders who relish fast country roads. It strikes the ideal balance between high performance and agility, with real-world riding demands and usability.
A 2022-model KTM 890 Duke GP. Photo by Kiska, courtesy KTM.
Making use of the astonishing LC8c parallel twin, the KTM 890 DUKE GP churns out respectable power figures from the most compact engine in this segment, maintaining the bragging rights of being the chosen platform for producing the most agile motorcycle in its class.
The same can be said about the overall design. The KTM 890 DUKE GP is aggressive in its stance, bristling with typical KTM design highlights and purposeful, compact proportions. Thanks in part to lightweight craftsmanship and advanced engineering, the KTM 890 DUKE GP is also one of the lightest motorcycles in its segment, with special attention given to the overall riding experience.
Agile and precise handling comes courtesy of geometry developed specifically for sporty street riding—the KTM 890 DUKE GP is all about handling. High-quality WP APEX suspension at each end ensure a perfect connection with the road and promote ultimate riding confidence.
On the electronics front, the KTM 890 DUKE GP boasts one of the most advanced and complete packages in the midrange segment, including Cornering MTC with a 6D lean angle sensor that not only detects the side-to-side and forward-backward pitch, but also drift positioning.
The usual selection of ride modes – notably RAIN, STREET, SPORT and optional TRACK mode – ensure that the rider can individually tailor traction control, anti-wheelie control and throttle control. These, and the usual staples of Cornering ABS, Supermoto ABS, a full-color TFT display and LED lighting all-around, make the KTM 890 DUKE GP a formidable opponent in any street fight.
With a new look to match its already legendary performance and character, the KTM 890 DUKE GP stands out even more.
A full range of specially developed KTM PowerParts have been created to further intensify your ride. A selected range of KTM PowerWear ensures that the rider can match the performance of the KTM 890 DUKE GP.
The 2022 KTM 890 DUKE GP will arrive on authorized KTM dealer floors from April 2022 onwards. For more information, visit ktm.com.
Loris Cresson confirmed at TPR Team Pedercini for 2022 WorldSBK season
With the 2022 FIM Superbike World Championship season fast approaching TPR Team Pedercini Racing is delighted to confirm that they will field Loris Cresson aboard a Kawasaki ZX-10RR for a second year.
Cresson will embark on his sophomore season keen to add to his WorldSBK points tally to date and to further close the gap to the front and the TPR Pedercini Racing squad, who remain committed to developing young talent, are excited to see what the young Belgian rider can do now that he is injury free.
The team will begin their pre-season testing schedule at Catalunya in March before travelling to other circuits and on to MotorLand Aragon ahead of the season opener at the Spanish venue in early April.
In addition to fielding Loris Cresson in 2022, TPR Team Pedercini Racing are hopeful of entering ‘wildcards’ and the team are working hard behind the scenes to ensure a second bike is on the grid at several events.
Lucio Pedercini – Team Principal: “2021 was a year of mutual understanding. 2022 will be the year in which we will do our best to achieve the goals we have set ourselves. We are happy to have Loris Cresson in our team again this year and I am delighted to finally be able to confirm this… our adventure continues, and we are looking forward to making a step on track this year. As a team we are also updating our team website and will be interacting with our fans and the fans of WorldSBK in a much more dynamic way. I can also say that we are working hard behind the scenes and are confident that a second machine will be on track at some point during the season.”
Loris Cresson: “I am more than happy to continue with the TPR Team Pedercini Racing. It’s been a long winter discussing everything with the team and in the end, we were able to find a solution to continue together. Lucio is a great guy, and we share the same end goal. I am happy to continue with my guys inside the box because we found a good way to work as last year progressed. There was always a good atmosphere and I trust the guys completely. I can’t wait to get back on the race bike but in the meantime, I will test a stock bike like many riders do to be in the best shape possible. The plan looks good, and it should be a good year for us. The level in WorldSBK is high but my target is to score points in all of the races, and I feel strong mentally and after my injury I am also now feeling strong. I want to thank all my family, Andi and everyone who is supporting me and also to Lucio and the entire TPR Team Pedercini because they too have made sacrifices to make this happen.”
Buell® Sales & Leadership Team Ready to Rumble at Daytona Bike Week
Grand Rapids, MI – When Buell Motorcycle announced their return in 2021, the industry took notice. Their stated goals were to assemble a top-notch leadership team, start production, and design new models. Buell has achieved those goals and plans to unveil their successes at Daytona Bike Week 2022.
After just a few months, Buell has achieved success with their Buellvana reservation & sales system and started delivering bikes, with VIN #’s 1 & 2 going directly to the Barber Motorsports Museum…proving yet again, that yes…Buell is Back!
“2021 was jam packed with successes for the Buell factory,” said Bill Melvin, CEO of Buell Motorcycle Co. “The leadership team is doing amazing, our factory production is in full swing, and sales reservations are exceeding our expectations.”
“Customers have responded very enthusiastically to our return and love the ease of our Buellvana® online reservation system,” said Melvin. “Most of our sales are just word of mouth among motorcycle enthusiasts and loyal followers.”
With new Buell Hammerhead 1190 and 1190 SX model motorcycles in production and being delivered to customers nationwide, want to see first-hand what all the buzz is about? Check out the new models up close and personal, and on-display at Destination Daytona during Daytona Bike Week 2022, March 4 – 13.
Opportunities to reserve a limited production slot by placing a $25 dollar reservation are still available by going to www.BuellMotorcycle.com and by visiting the Daytona Bike Week Buell display. You’ll receive a limited-edition Buell hat too!
In addition to viewing the current models on display at Daytona, you can get a glimpse at future product under development and rub elbows with the Buell team members that are ensuring Buell is Back…and here to stay.
“We made sure to add the right people with the experience and passion needed to revive this beloved brand,” said Melvin. “Now our leadership team is focused and firing on all cylinders.”
A few of the leadership team members available during Daytona Bike Week are:
Dean Guard, Chief Product Engineer – with 36+ years at GM focused on world-wide gasoline powertrain development, Dean’s senior leadership and technical experience blend nicely warranting successful integration happens among all things powertrain. Working across all departments to brings new products to life, Dean’s hands-on approach is a guiding light.
Tim Holland, Chief Technical Officer – as the recent Head of Lotus Engineering’s test and development operations, Tim’s led teams focused on powertrain development, racing applications, not to mention new product and prototype development. With over 35 years of experience in the automotive field, if it’s part of the powerplant, Tim’s fingerprints are all over it.
Steve Laham, Chief Products, Development & Strategy – he’s an icon in the powersports industry having led Butch’s retail success, steered Sea-Doo® through challenging times, launched the uniquely designed BRP Spyder® and led the Evinrude® reinvention at BRP. With over 35 years of powersports experience, Steve leads a no stone unturned approach to driving business.
The Buell leadership team is a collection of passionate powersports enthusiasts who just also happen to be seasoned and experienced powersports businesspeople. Go talk with them at Daytona Bike Week 2022.
Buell is back, with motorcycles on display at Dayton Bike Week, and delivering excitement at every turn.
For future Buell updates, follow our news page on our website and our social media pages.
Acosta smashes the lap record in a show of intent on the Algarve
The rookie sensation heads both the timesheets and a Red Bull KTM Ajo 1-2 as testing concludes in Portugal
Monday, 21 February 2022
If anyone had doubts about the hype surrounding Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Ajo), the time to surrender them is now. It’s a new year, new class, new number but the same sensation as the Moto2™ rookie smashed the lap record in testing at the Autodromo Internacional do Algarve, putting in a 1:41.552 to start the Jaws music early for the rest of the field.
In some further 2021 deja vu, Augusto Fernandez made sure it was a Red Bull KTM Ajo 1-2 as he ended Monday 0.154 off his teammate, with Aron Canet (Flexbox HP 40) completing the top three. Fermin Aldeguer (MB Conveyors Speed Up) put the Boscocuro in fourth, 0.563 off the top, with Albert Arenas (GASGAS Aspar Team) for close company.
There were a couple more tenths back to Ai Ogura (Idemitsu Honda Team Asia), with Joe Roberts just 0.011 back as his second season with Italtrans Racing Team gets off to a solid start. Jake Dixon (GASGAS Aspar Team) and Celestino Vietti (Mooney VR46 Racing Team) were next up, with Jorge Navarro (Flexbox HP 40) completing the top ten.
There were a number of crashes including one for Bo Bendsneyder (Pertamina Mandalika SAG Team) that saw the Dutch rider break his collarbone and another for Marcel Schrötter (Liqui Moly Intact GP) that led the German to leave early for a medical check on his hand.
The first session is when Schrötter crashed, as did teammate Jeremy Alcoba, Zonta van den Goorbergh (RW Racing GP) and Arenas. Canet crashed twice. In the second session, Canet, Alcoba and van den Goorbergh crashed again, and Bendsneyder suffered his tumble. Dixon also fell, as did Alessandro Zaccone (Gresini Racing Moto2), Gabriel Rodrigo (Pertamina Mandalika SAG Team) and Aldeguer. Filip Salač (Gresini Racing Moto2) took two tumbles. Sam Lowes (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team) also remained sidelined as he aims to recover from tendonitis in his wrist ahead of the Qatar GP.
After three interesting days on the Algarve, it’s now time to look ahead to racing and the Qatar GP. The lights go out in less than two weeks, so check out motogp.com and social media for more interviews and content from Portugal and then get in gear for Moto2™ 2022!
Foggia egdes out Migno with new lap record on Monday
The Italian hits back to end the test fastest, with a new lap record enough to deny Migno by half a tenth
Dennis Foggia. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Dennis Foggia lost the top spot to new teammate Tatsuki Suzuki on Sunday, but by the end of Day 3 the Italian was back on top and with a new lap record no less. His 1:46.990 makes him the only rider under the 1:47 barrier as testing concludes in Portugal, although the number 7 was only 0.052 ahead of Andrea Migno (Rivacold Snipers Team) to take the spoils. Sophomore Izan Guevara (GASGAS Aspar Team) completed the top three, 0.334 off the top, with the first session bearing the most speed for the majority of the field, top three included.
Ayumu Sasaki (Sterilgarda Husqvarna Max) was fourth quickest, around half a second off the searing new lap record, with rookie David Muñoz (BOE SKX) for close company in fifth as the Spaniard continued to impress and the timesheets tightened. Day 1 and 2’s fastest rider, Tatsuki Suzuki, ended Monday in P6, ahead of Jaume Masia (Red Bull KTM Ajo), Deniz Öncü (Red Bull KTM Tech 3), Sergio Garcia (GASGAS Aspar Team) and Kaito Toba (CIP Green Power). The biggest gap between fifth and tenth was just 0.037, and the tiny deficits continued throughout the field.
Suzuki and Migno crashed in the first session, with Garcia and rookie Brit Scott Ogden (VisionTrack Racing Team) taking tumbles in the second session. There were no fallers in the final outing of the day for Moto3™.
That’s a wrap on official testing for the lightweight class, now all there’s left to do is race. Foggia will arrive in the Qatar GP as both the 2021 runner up and fastest rider in preseason, but can the Italian get his campaign off to a dream start? Check out interviews and more on motogp.com to get the lowdown from the test, and then strap in for the Qatar GP on the 6th of March!
More, from a press release issued by Marc VDS Racing Team:
Elf Marc VDS Racing Team completes pre-season preparations in Portugal
The Elf Marc VDS Racing Team ended a busy and productive winter testing campaign at the Algarve International Circuit today, with Tony Arbolino putting the finishing touches to his preparations for the start of the 2022 Moto2 World Championship.
Arbolino and teammate Sam Lowes, who was absent from today’s action in Portimao with a recurring tendonitis issue in his left wrist, will return to track action on March 4 in Qatar for the opening Free Practice session of 2022 ahead of the much anticipated first race two days later.
Tony Arbolino #14
Arbolino’s constant progression throughout the entire pre-season continued in impressive fashion today, with additional chassis set-up tweaks allowing him to gain more stability in high-speed corners.
A busy final day included plans to complete a full 23-lap race simulation and the Italian was setting a fast and consistent pace when his long run was unfortunately interrupted by a red flag.
Arbolino did get chance to assess Dunlop’s soft rear tyre option but rather than attack hard for a fast time he preferred to work on the balance of his Kalex machine with the extra grip available.
“We go to Qatar optimistic we can be competitive”
“We have worked incredibly hard over these three days in Portimao, and we made a lot of changes to the bike to find our ideal base set-up heading to the first race in Qatar. The crew really had to work so hard but I’m sure this will be rewarded when we go racing. We have understood a lot of things about our package at this test and we also found solutions to some of our problems, so we go to Qatar optimistic that we can be competitive. If we continue to work in the way we have done during winter testing then we can achieve some great results together this season. My crew and I go to Qatar fully motivated to show our best potential in the first race.”
More, from a press release issued by KTM Factory Racing Tech3:
Red Bull KTM Tech3 Completes Portimao Test and is More than Ever Ready for New Season
The preseason is coming to an end for the Red Bull KTM Tech3 team after completing three days of testing in Portimao, in addition to two private sessions held in Valencia and Jerez earlier this month. Both Deniz Oncu and Adrian Fernandez were able to finalize their preparations for the 2022 season, set to start in Qatar on March 6.
Following his crash during the second session yesterday, Deniz was declared fit to ride this morning for the final day. Although his left ankle has been painful, he was brave enough to be willing to get on the bike this morning and finish the testing programme started with his crew. With excellent track conditions today, the Turkish rider, who is entering the new season as a championship contender, significantly improved his lap-time this morning to 1’47.659. Over the last three days, the team tested different bike settings in order to find a perfect fit to the rider’s style, and Deniz is confident that some positive information came out of it. It is now time to go home and rest before starting his third season in the Moto3 class.
Our new recruit, Adrian Fernandez, leaves Portugal feeling very positive and happy about his new environnement. Indeed, Pitito seems to be settling well with his new team and his new bike. Over the last three days, he registered 139 laps and we saw improvement day after day. Together with his crew, the aim was to find a good set-up for Adrian to feel comfortable in order to reach his potential, do fast laps and get a good race pace. This morning, he got very close to 1’47, reaching his best-lap time in 1’48.074. Just like his teammate, it is now time to go home and get some rest before starting his first season with the Red Bull KTM Tech3 family.
Deniz Oncu
Best-Lap Time: 1’47.659
Cumulated Day 1 + Day 2 + Day 3 Laps: 111
“We finished three days of testing here in Portimao before the first race in Qatar. We have tried a lot of different things on the bike with the team, and have found some really good set-ups to fit my riding style. However, these last three days have been tough for me but my injury is not so bad. I will now go home to recover in order to get ready for Qatar next week.”
Adrian Fernandez
Best-Lap Time: 1’48.074
Cumulated Day 1 + Day 2 + Day 3 Laps: 139
“These three days in Portimao have been very good. I feel good on the bike, with the team, and I am looking forward to starting racing in Qatar. Today was a good day, in particular because I was able to improve my pace, but what is important is the race pace, and we will see what I can do in Qatar. Time to go home to rest before heading to Qatar.”
Hervé Poncharal
Team Manager
“It has been an intense three days of testing here in Portimao for the Red Bull KTM Tech3 team. The weather was good to us and we were able to get good track conditions, although Day 1 was a bit windy. I think that both Deniz and Adrian worked really hard and I believe that we are ready for Qatar. We wanted to leave Portugal with a good amount of laps under our belt, a good feeling from both riders with their crews and their bikes.
Unfortunately for Deniz, he had a quite heavy crash during the second session of Day 2. Luckily, no big damage, but he has twisted his left ankle and is currently in a lot of pain. He decided very bravely to continue to ride on Day 3 and significantly improved his lap-time without pushing to the limits too much. Deniz is feeling really good on the bike, he made some clear improvements over the winter both on himself and on his riding style, and I believe that he is set to have an amazing 2022 season. He will now fly back home to treat his foot, get some rest, and go to Qatar fully fit and ready to go.
From Adrian’s side, it feels that he is now feeling comfortable with his new environnement. His riding style and technical feedback improved everyday, as well as the lap times, and we feel that there is plenty more to come. He has a big smile on his face and is looking forward to the start of the new season, and I am really happy about this because I want him to feel at home with us.
Our team will now have a few days off to rest and reflect on the preseason, before traveling to Qatar to start a very long, but exciting, new season.”
More, from a press release issued by BOÉ SKX Team:
BOÉ SKX finishes pre-season testing among the best in Moto3
The Spanish team finishes the pre-season with a great improvement of its riders in the three days of official Moto3 tests, in which David Muñoz was the best rookie, finishing fifth and Ana Carrasco was twenty-ninth with a good progression.
The official pre-season tests for Moto2 and Moto3 have come to an end at the Portimão circuit with a great performance from BOÉ SKX. The team directed by José Ángel Gutiérrez Boé concludes an intense preseason that began with four days of private testing in Jerez, to which are added these three days of official testing at the Portuguese track.
These three days have been really positive for the whole team with a clear improvement day after day of the two BOÉ SKX riders, a test in which for the first time in 2022 all the riders of the grid have seen each other face to face on track.
As planned, the team clocked up a lot of kilometres. In total, the two BOÉ SKX riders completed 323 laps during these days, with 159 laps for David Muñoz and 164 in the case of Ana Carrasco. In addition, none of the riders had any crashes or technical problems, so these tests have been very positive for the whole team.
One of the most outstanding riders of the test was David Muñoz. The Andalusian, who is the youngest rider on the grid, has surprised many with a great adaptation from the first moment. Muñoz has been consistently among the top ten fastest in each session, and showed his intentions from the first day with the third fastest time of the day (1:48.858). On Sunday he was again very consistent with a very competitive pace. He also improved his time from the previous day with a fastest lap of 1:48.333, which put him ninth in the standings. David Muñoz continued in great form on the last day, setting his best time of the test with a 1:47.618, a lap that finished the three days in fifth place overall and with which he has become the best rookie of the test.
Ana Carrasco continues with her adaptation period and was also very consistent, a hard work that paid off with better times and feelings in every outing on track. While on the first day Carrasco’s best lap was 1:52.503, on the second day she improved by more than two seconds. Even on the third and final day he managed to lower the time to 1:49.293, a time he did on the last lap of the last session riding alone and that has been enough for him to finish in twenty-ninth position but, above all, to gain more confidence with this new bike.
David Muñoz – P5 (1:47.618): “I’m very happy with how everything went. It was the first time I competed against all the riders in the World Championship, many of them have a lot of experience, and to finish in the top five is a great result for me. I made a big step forward, I didn’t know where I was really going to be. Every day we competed well, the first day we were third, on Sunday in the last run after some adjustments we improved again and today was a perfect day for me. I am very happy with the work of the whole team, I want to thank them and all the people who support me”.
Ana Carrasco – P29 (1:49.293): “I’m quite happy, although we still have a lot of work to do. From when I started three weeks ago with this bike until now we have made a big step forward. Last week in Jerez I was able to ride fast and here I have improved day by day. My goal is to keep closing the gap to the fastest riders, I think we are doing that, but we have to keep working. What we are really lacking are kilometres and time with the bike, we have to keep learning, today I finished the day wanting to have another run because I think I could keep improving because the team is helping me to understand how to get a good performance. The lap time I think it could have been better, but we have to be happy because we started quite far off on the first day and now we are much closer. I’m looking forward to keep improving”.
José Ángel Guiérrez Boé: “We are very happy with the three days of testing. We have prepared very well for this new season and I am satisfied with the work of the whole team. David Muñoz has surprised more than one by being constantly among the fastest. We know that he is very talented and hard-working, and these results support our confidence in him. In the case of Ana, we are very happy with the progress she is making. The result should not deceive us, Ana is still in a period of adaptation to this new bike and with the great work of the whole team she has been able to improve in every outing. She feels much more comfortable and we are looking forward to continue seeing her grow with us. With these tests and the ones in Jerez we have been working many days in a row, and the team has performed exceptionally well. We are ready and excited”.
With the conclusion of these tests, the next stop for the team will be the Qatar Grand Prix, to be held over the weekend of 5-6 March.
More, from a press release issued by Mooney VR46 Racing Team:
OFFICIAL PORTIMAO TEST: VIETTI RAMUS IN THE SLIP STREAM OF THE FASTEST GUYS. STEPS FORWARD FOR ANTONELLI
The Mooney VR46 Racing Team duo closes the pre-season respectively in P9 and P23 in the combined standings of the three days
Portimao (Portugal), February 21st 2022 – At the end after seven days of testing between Spain and Portugal the pre season of the Moto2 couple of the Mooney VR46 Racing Team. Challenging sessions but a closing in crescendo before leaving for Qatar with Celestino Vietti Ramus in P9 and Niccoló Antonelli 23rd.
Over 160 laps for Celestino who in FP7 manages to break the wall of 1.42 before trying a race simulation in his final run (FP8 ndr) to better understand the new 2022 Kalex over the long distances. Absolutely positive feelings and a best lap time of 1.42.512.
Gradual but constant growth for Niccolò, 121 total laps, who today signs a best lap time of 1.43.507. He was able to improve his personal crono by over two seconds during the three days.
For both, together with their teammates of the MotoGP Team, Luca Marini and Marco Bezzecchi, the next appointment scheduled is the presentation of the new livery of the Mooney VR46 Racing Team live on Facebook and Youtube on February 24th at 12.00 pm CET before leaving for Qatar GP, the first race of 2022.
Celestino Vietti #13
I’m looking forward to Qatar three challenging days at the end of a five-day session if we also count Jerez. We finished positively, each session I made a step forward and the Day3 was particularly good in several respects. We are not at 100% yet but we continue to work in this direction towards the first race of the season, on one of my favorite tracks.
Niccolo Antonelli #28
Overall we have to be happy with the step forward we made even though I would have liked to have done more. The first day here at Portimao was a bit complicated, I have struggled a lot, but then we managed to reset and close with a good final lap time. We continue like this for Qatar and the debut in the new category. I can’t wait to show you the new liveries the next week!
Luca Brivio
Team Manager
Three intense days of work where we continued to know the new Kalex and try different solutions for the upcoming season. We continued the Jerez program, we are happy with what we have done, especially Celestino for the nice step forward in the Day3 on the race simulation. Niccolò did a good job too, we must consider that he is a Rookie and is still taking measurements with the new power of the bike. We can’t wait to reveal the new liveries and then leaving for Qatar.
More, from a press release issued by Yamaha VR46 Master Camp Team:
YAMAHA VR46 MASTER CAMP TEAM LEVEL UP AT PORTIMAO TEST
The Yamaha VR46 Master Camp Team enjoyed an exciting debut at the roller coaster track that is the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve. After three full-on days at the Portimao Moto2 & Moto3 Official Test, rookie riders Manuel Gonzalez and Keminth Kubo finished in 25th and 26th place respectively on Day 3.
Portimao (Portugal), 21st February 2022
Following their online team launch on February 18, the Yamaha VR46 Master Camp Team have sprung into action at the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve for the Portimao Moto2 & Moto3 Official Test, held from February 19-21. New entries Manuel Gonzalez and Keminth Kubo made the most of their time on track, soaking up as much information and experience as possible during their official debut as Moto2 World Championship riders. They finished in 25th and 26th place in the combined timesheets on Day 3.
Coming from the Supersport series, Gonzalez used the Portimao Test to adapt to his new bike. Even windy conditions on Day 1 couldn‘t keep the Spanish talent from finishing in an encouraging 18th place with a 1‘44.746s fastest lap. On the sunny second day he found an improvement of nearly one second. The number-18 rider continued working hard to understand the bike better on the final day of testing, completing 37 more laps to come to a total of 152 laps. A 1’43.593s earned him 25th place in the combined Day 3 timesheets, 2.041s from first.
Kubo made good steps during the first official test. He has three years of CEV Moto2 experience and used it to jump from a best time of 1‘45.699s on Day 1 to a 1‘44.481s on Day 2. Working closely together with his crew chief Alessandro Finelli, the technical solutions found on the second day of testing also led to positive results on the third day. After riding 36 laps today and 146 in total, he completed the test with a best time of 1’43.706s, for 26th place, 2.154s from first.
GELETE NIETO
SPORTS DIRECTOR
Our work in Portimao is done. It was a ’normal test‘. Our team is still brand new, so we didn‘t really look too much at the times. It‘s still too early for that. We need to understand the bike first, and also all the crew members need to adjust first because we are at the start of our work together as a team. But I think that the method of the team is correct. The riders did technical debriefs with the crew chiefs every day after the sessions. They liked that a lot because it‘s a good opportunity to share information of course, but also to get to know each other better. I think the alignment in the team is very nice. I think we will be improving race by race, and we will try our best at the upcoming round in Qatar.
Manu‘s test was good because he understands his bike better now. For sure, it‘s a difficult transition for him from Supersport to the Moto2 class. These three days were probably not the time for him to fully understand everything. We need to improve a lot of things, but that‘s to be expected at the start of his journey.
I think Kubo will go home happy because he improved a lot on the second and third day of testing. He is always improving, and he did a good test. But obviously he also needs to learn a lot because we are far from the top now. I think that the results will become better step by step. His feeling with the bike is good, and the bike is not moving too much.
Manu and Kubo did a lot of laps here, and that‘s very important for their learning process. This category is very difficult. It‘s the most difficult class to get the position on the bike right. For this reason, these three days of testing were very important, and luckily the weather was so nice! We are ready for the first race.
MANUEL GONZALEZ
25th / 1’43.593s / +2.041
It has been a very difficult day for us. We changed a lot of things on the bike, but the problem was still there and still big. I thought that at this point I could go very fast with this bike, and to me it‘s a shame it‘s not happening because this problem is holding me back. Luca Capocchiano tried to help me a lot, but I feel the same also with big changes. Now the test is over, I will put my mind to the Qatar GP, and I can be positive because I am happy that we tried a lot. I‘m learning how to adapt to this bike.
KEMINTH KUBO
26th / 1’43.706s / +2.154
I‘m happy about these tests and about today. I did really many laps, and in the morning we improved the lap time compared to yesterday. We changed the setting of the bike a bit, and we continued to improve also in the afternoon. Finally, the gap gets closer to the top, and I‘m satisfied about today‘s results. Now it‘s almost time to go to Qatar. It will be the first real GP for me, and I‘m quite nervous!
More, from a press release issued by QJMotor Avintia Racing:
QJMOTOR AVINTIA RACING CONCLUDES THE PORTIMAO OFFICIAL TEST
Portimao (Portugal), 21st February 2022
QJMotor Avintia Racing has finished the Official Tests in Portimao with very good feelings ahead of the start of the season on March 4th at the Qatar International Circuit.
During these three days of testing, both riders have continued their adaptation work, both to the bike and to the team. Matteo Bertelle already knew the track, unlike Elia Bartolini who this was the first time he rode on the Portuguese track.
Bartolini, despite suffering a small crash on the first day, rode very steadily during the three tests days, managing to stop the clock at 1’48.328. For his part, Bertelle set a time of 1’48.577 in some very beneficial tests for him ahead of the first race of the championship.
On March 4th, 5th and 6th, the inaugural Grand Prix of the season will take place at the Qatar International Circuit.
#23 ELIA BARTOLINI – 1’48.328
“The test has gone quite well, we have worked very well with the team. I am happy with the work done since we have continued testing things, even so I am happy with the result, despite the fact that this last day I have not managed to improve my time I’m happy with the line of work we’ve been carrying out. I’ve managed to maintain a good position in the final classification and I’m already looking forward to the race in Qatar.”
#18 MATTHEW BERTELLE – 1’48.577
“The test went quite well, fortunately we were able to ride as my wrist hurt a bit on the first day. We worked very well with the team and we leave Portimao happy and eager to start the season in Qatar.”
More, from a press release issued by Italtrans Racing Team:
Italtrans Racing Team completes positive Portimao Test
Everything is set for the new 2022 season.
After the usual winter break, the spotlights have once again turned on the MotoGP World Championship. Italtrans Racing Team took to the track for the official Irta testing in Portimao, Portugal, before the Grand Prix of Qatar, scheduled on 4-5-6 March in Doha.
Lorenzo Dalla Porta and Joe Roberts had the opportunity to get more confidence with their Kalex, after the several technical innovations the team made in the months of stop.
With both riders the results are more than positive.
Roberts confirmed to be one of the fastest in the category, finishing the three days of testing 4th, 5th and 7th, with a best time of 1’42”187.
Dalla Porta also had a very positive feeling, constantly improving his times, finishing 13th on Saturday and Sunday and 14th in the last session, with a best lap time of 1’42”992.
Lorenzo Dalla Porta #19:
“We made some changes to the bike compared to last year and gathered some important data. We go to Qatar ready and aware that we can do well: my shoulder has improved a lot and I’ll be ready to give my best”.
Joe Roberts #16:
“Positive test for the team. We all work hard, trying new things on the bike in different direction. The pace is good and I feel really confident and excited for Qatar. I can’t wait to start the season”.
Franco Brugnara – Lorenzo Dalla Porta’s Crew Chief:
“It was a positive test despite Lorenzo is still not at his best. He ride well at Portimao, showing tenacity and determination. Now he has a few more days to recover before moving to Qatar”.
Giovanni Sandi – Joe Roberts’ Crew Chief:
“I’m happy with the way the team worked with Joe over the last few days: he has been consistent, calm and quiet, showing all his qualities. We started off on the right foot and I’m confident that we will maintain this pace”.
Wayne Rainey (2). Photo courtesy Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.
Wayne Rainey To Ride Again In Goodwood Festival Of Speed
Three-Time World Champion To Be Reunited With Yamaha YZR500
Goodwood is proud to announce that three-time 500cc World Motorcycle Champion Wayne Rainey will make his first appearance at the Goodwood Festival of Speed presented by Mastercard (June 23-26).
Renowned for its unrestricted access to the mighty machines of motorsport and the riders and drivers who made them famous, this year’s Festival of Speed will be no exception. Across the weekend, fans will be able to watch Rainey take to the iconic Goodwood hillclimb on the Yamaha YZR500, with which he won the 1992 World Championship 30 years ago.
Goodwood is delighted that the Festival of Speed will reunite Rainey with a racing bike for the first time in 29 years, following the accident at the 1993 Italian Grand Prix that left him paralyzed from the chest down. Rainey’s exploits at the Festival of Speed follow his first return to riding in 2019 at the Sound of Engine Festival in Suzuka, Japan.
As we prepare to celebrate ‘The Innovators – Masterminds of Motorsport’, Rainey’s ride will be made possible by the innovation of the Yamaha Motor Company as they reconfigure the 30-year-old Yamaha YZR500 so it can be ridden using handlebar controls alone. Rainey himself has masterminded his way through a career in motorsport spanning four decades, first as a three-time World Champion, then as a team manager, and currently as President of MotoAmerica.
Wayne Rainey said: “I’m incredibly excited to not only be attending my first Goodwood Festival of Speed this summer, but to be riding my 1992 Yamaha YZR500 up the famous hillclimb. It’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and one that I just couldn’t pass up. I want to thank the Yamaha Motor Company for preparing my 1992 YZR500 and adapting it for me to ride, MotoAmerica for helping make the entire project fly, and The Duke of Richmond for really making this a reality. I can’t wait to meet the fans who come from all over the world for the Goodwood Festival of Speed.”
Lin Jarvis, Managing Director of Yamaha Motor Racing Srl said: “The Goodwood Festival of Speed is an amazing event that is a showcase for two and four-wheel motorsports legends – both human and mechanical. Wayne Rainey is a true motorcycle racing legend who achieved three 500cc World Titles with Yamaha before his career-ending accident and injury. The thought of Wayne riding the legendary 1992 Factory YZR500 bike that he rode to his final championship victory is something truly amazing that I for one never imagined could be possible. I know it will mean so much to Wayne, and it will be something truly special for all the fans at Goodwood and all around the world. We are proud to be able to support Wayne make his dream come true.”
The Duke of Richmond said: “I am absolutely delighted that Wayne and his family are able to join us at this year’s Festival of Speed and that we will see him take to the Hill on the bike with which he won his last World Championship 30 years ago. Every year the Festival showcases spectacular stories from the world of motorsport, and we are privileged that Wayne is sharing his with us this summer.”
Wayne Rainey
With 82 500cc Grand Prix starts, Wayne Rainey won 24 races and took 64 podiums while his battles with arch-rival Kevin Schwantz have become the stuff of motorcycling legend. At the time of his accident in 1993 he was leading the World Motorcycle Championship and was just three races away from winning his fourth title.
Following his accident, Rainey became the team manager of the Marlboro Yamaha Team before retiring in 1998. He was inducted into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in 1999 and the International Motorsports Hall of Fame in 2007, named a FIM Grand Prix ‘Legend’ in 2000 and has a corner of the Laguna Seca Circuit named in his honour.
Savings to be made on tickets bought before 1 April 2022
Those planning to attend the Festival of Speed this summer have the opportunity to save on tickets when bought by 31 March 2022. The 2022 Festival of Speed qualifies for the UK Government’s ‘creative industry tax relief’, with a reduced VAT rate of 12.5% until 31 March 2022. We are pleased to be able to pass this saving on to our customers, which will apply to a number of entry products. Ticket prices will remain at the reduced VAT rate until the end of March, when it will return to the full rate of 20% from 1 April 2022.
About MotoAmerica
MotoAmerica is the North American road racing series created in 2014 that is home to the AMA Superbike Championship. MotoAmerica is an affiliate of KRAVE Group LLC, a partnership that includes three-time 500cc World Champion, two-time AMA Superbike Champion, and AMA Hall of Famer Wayne Rainey, ex-racer and former manager of Team Roberts Chuck Aksland, motorsports marketing executive Terry Karges, and businessman Richard Varner. For more information on MotoAmerica, visit www.MotoAmerica.com. Also make sure to follow MotoAmerica on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
The Roadracing World 2022 Reader Survey, Part 2, was brought to you by D.I.D. and Woodcraft.
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Jeremy Maddrill (1P) rode his 1979 Kawasaki KZ650 to victories in both AHRMA Vintage Cup races featuring the Vintage Superbike Heavyweight class at Roebling Road Raceway. Photo by etechphoto.com, courtesy AHRMA.
AHRMA’s 2022 Vintage Cup Roebling Road Raceway Race Recap
(February 22, 2022, Elora, Tennessee) – Motorcycles that are mostly hiding away in personal collections showed they can still deliver on the racetrack during the second race weekend of the 2022 Bridgestone Tires American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association (AHRMA) National Historic Cup Roadracing Series February 19-20 at Roebling Road Raceway, near Savannah, Georgia.
“It looks like this is going to be an exciting group. There are a lot of bikes being built right now that will be coming out for future races this year, and we are building steam,” said Brian Larrabure, 2022 Chair of the AHRMA Board of Trustees.
The 2022 Vintage Cup class sponsored by RoadracingWorld.com, featuring Vintage Superbike Heavyweight, was a highlight of the event. Jeremy Maddrill, from Stiger, Illinois, won both races on a 1979 Kawasaki KZ650. Maddrill custom built his bike between the season opener at Daytona and Roebling Road using a motor purchased at the AHRMA Classic MotoFest™ Swap Meet, after blowing his original engine while racing at Daytona.
There were six bikes on the grid in Vintage Superbike Heavyweight on each day of the event with some racers crossing the country to compete.
Saturday’s race had the Vintage Superbike Heavyweight class gridded behind Sound of Thunder 3 (SOT3). Maddrill’s strategy was to use the SOT3 traffic going into Turn One to his advantage to gap the rest of the field, which he did, taking the lead. Maddrill was able to keep the lead throughout the race on his way to taking the checkered flag first.
Kevin Rammer, from Newnan, Georgia, on a 1982 Honda CB650SC, and Robert Ringnalda, from Columbus, Ohio, aboard a 1979 Honda CBX1000, were in a heated battle with Rammer going off-road at one point. Rammer was able to come back, pass Ringnalda, and start reeling in Maddrill, but Rammer finished a bikelength behind Maddrill in second place. Ringnalda got third. Rounding out the results, William Brint, from Mount Airy, Georgia, riding a 1979 Honda CBX, finished fourth, Rian Mondriaan, from Bradenton, Florida, on a 1982 Honda CB900F, placed fifth, and Warren Wilson, from Indianapolis, Indiana, on a 1982 Kawasaki GPZ 750, got sixth.
On Sunday, the race grids were modified so that Vintage Superbike Heavyweight was in front of SOT3, putting Maddrill on pole and preventing him from using Saturday’s race strategy to his advantage. Brint was the first racer through Turn One with Maddrill in second position and followed by Ringnalda. The race was red-flagged on the opening lap and was restarted, albeit for six laps instead of the original eight.
At the restart, Brint was once again first to clear Turn One. Ringnalda was second followed by Maddrill. Ringnalda took the lead from Brint and held it until his bike experienced mechanical issues, forcing him to retire and leaving Brint and Maddrill to battle for first.
Maddrill finally squeezed past Brint in Turn Five and held the lead to the checkered flag. Brint had to work for second place after Rammer passed him coming out of Turn Six, but Brint was able to out motor Rammer 300 feet before the finish line to take second. Rammer was third, Mondriaan got fourth, Wilson placed fifth, and Ringnalda was scored sixth.
The 2022 Vintage Cup Trophy will be awarded to the Vintage Superbike Heavyweight class winner at select events including High Plains Raceway, Thunderhill Raceway Park, Heartland Motorsports Park, New Jersey Motorsports Park, Weathertech Raceway Laguna Seca, Ridge Motorsports Park, and Barber Motorsports Park. The Vintage Superbike Heavyweight class is sponsored by International CBX Owners Association (ICOA). Race dates and event registration links are available at: ahrma.org/schedules-results.
AHRMA National Historic Cup Roadracing Series Vintage Superbike Heavyweight Results – Saturday, February 19, 2022
Jeremy Maddrill, 1979 Kawasaki KZ 650, Steger, IL
Kevin Rammer, 1982 Honda CB650SC, Newnan, GA
Robert Ringnalda, 1979 Honda CBX1000, Columbus, OH
William Brint, 1979 Honda CBX, Mount Airy, GA
Rian Mondriaan, 1982 Honda CB900F, Bradenton, FL
Warren Wilson, 1982 Kawasaki GPZ 750, Indianapolis, IN
AHRMA National Historic Cup Roadracing Series Vintage Superbike Heavyweight Results – Sunday, February 20, 2022
Jeremy Maddrill, 1979 Kawasaki KZ 650, Steger, IL
William Brint, 1979 Honda CBX, Mount Airy, GA
Kevin Rammer, 1982 Honda CB650SC, Newnan, GA
Rian Mondriaan, 1982 Honda CB900F, Bradenton, FL
Warren Wilson, 1982 Kawasaki GPZ 750, Indianapolis, IN
Robert Ringnalda, 1979 Honda CBX1000, Columbus, OH
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.
MINNEAPOLIS, MN – FEBRUARY 22, 2022 – Indian Motorcycle, America’s First Motorcycle Company, today unleashed the next generation of American V-Twin touring performance with the launch of the Indian Pursuit. Featuring the liquid-cooled PowerPlus engine, seamless ride-enhancing technology, a chassis-mounted fairing, and loads of touring amenities, the 2022 Indian Pursuit stakes its claim as the most capable and refined American touring machine on the road.
Packed with unparalleled comfort and performance, the Indian Pursuit was thoughtfully engineered for discerning riders who value the journey as much as the destination. Available in two models with two trim levels for each, riders can select from four total offerings to fit their personal style and riding preferences. Models include the Pursuit Dark Horse and Pursuit Limited – each available with a premium package that offers advanced ride-enhancing technology and additional comfort features.
A 2022-model Indian Pursuit Dark Horse at rest. Photo courtesy Indian Motorcycle.
“Touring bikes are one of the ultimate expressions of freedom – enabling unforgettable experiences through longer escapes and epic adventures on the open road,” said Mike Dougherty, President for Indian Motorcycle. “With Pursuit, we’ve expanded on the unparalleled sophistication of the PowerPlus motor to deliver a class-leading, fully-loaded touring machine that combines top-tier performance with unparalleled comfort and advanced tech features, delivering an American V-twin touring experience unlike any other.”
At the heart of each model is the Indian Motorcycle PowerPlus engine, a 108 cubic-inch, liquid-cooled V-twin that delivers a class-leading 122 horsepower and 128 ft-lbs. of torque. Each 2022 Pursuit model features a refined PowerPlus calibration, which improves low-speed drivability and further enhances the rider experience.
Each Indian Pursuit model is designed for optimal comfort for long, epic journeys. The adjustable windscreen and vented lower fairings provide superior protection from the elements, and a heightened level of flexibility to adjust to varying weather and temperature conditions. Heated grips keep riders’ hands warm in cold weather, while the Pursuit’s new Touring Comfort seat delivers unprecedented comfort. In addition, a premium cargo trunk and spacious saddlebags combine for more than 35 gallons of power-locking storage – allowing riders to pack everything they need for longer rides.
Features for each Pursuit model are capped off with an industry-leading seven-inch touchscreen display powered by RIDE COMMAND. With RIDE COMMAND+, the touchscreen display offers Apple CarPlay®, GPS with turn-by-turn navigation and a free year of RIDE COMMAND+ connected features, including live traffic and weather overlays, and an all-new vehicle locator feature. The new vehicle locator feature adds a sense of security, as riders can visit the Indian Motorcycle RIDE COMMAND mobile app or website to track their bike’s last location where it was powered on.
A 2022-model Indian Pursuit Limited at rest. Photo courtesy Indian Motorcycle.
Riders looking to take their journey to the next level can do so with the Indian Pursuit Dark Horse with Premium Package and Indian Pursuit Limited with Premium Package. Each model features an all-new electronically adjustable rear suspension preload from Fox®, which allows riders to adjust their preload for optimal comfort and handling under varying conditions. Whether riding solo, two-up or carrying more cargo – the electronically adjustable rear suspension preload is managed from the convenience of the bike’s infotainment system. The new electronic preload is standard on Premium package models and is also available as an accessory upgrade for standard Indian Pursuit Dark Horse, Indian Pursuit Limited, and all Indian Challenger models.
In addition, both premium models offer intuitive Smart Lean Technology, which keeps riders confidently grounded by utilizing a Bosch® IMU to add cornering control to the dynamic traction control and ABS. The two premium offerings also feature integrated driving lights within the lower fairings and a premium styled heated seat for improved comfort during cold weather.
To add power and custom-inspired styling to Indian Pursuit models, Indian Motorcycle offers several performance accessories. The PowerPlus Air Cleaner complements the bike with a deeper intake sound, while the PowerPlus Stage 2 Performance Cams deliver 10% more horsepower and 3% more torque.
Indian Pursuit riders looking to further personalize their ride can do so with two kit options for their Hard Lower Fairings, a set of Mitered Mid-Rise Handlebars, LED lighting options, and various soft luggage pieces. To further utilize the space within the Pursuit’s Hard Lower Fairings, riders can add additional storage compartments or integrate an Indian Motorcycle PowerBand Audio Kit. When fully upgraded with PowerBand Audio, riders will experience surround sound with four points, including front fairing, lower fairings, saddlebags and cargo trunk. The Indian Motorcycle Mitered Mid-Rise Handlebars not only add a stylish custom look, but also place the upper controls in a comfortable, elevated position. Riders can also add LED lighting for enhanced visibility, including an Adaptive LED Headlight option that automatically optimizes where light shines based on the bike’s lean angle. And finally, riders can choose from four versatile pieces in the Spirit Lake Luggage Collection for protected, organized gear that’s easy to attach and detach from the bike.
Pricing for the Indian Pursuit Dark Horse begins at $30,999 and $33,999 for the Pursuit Dark Horse with Premium Package. Paint options for both trims include, Black Smoke, Spirit Blue, Silver Quartz Smoke, and Ruby Metallic over Black Metallic.
The Indian Pursuit Limited starts at $29,999, while the Pursuit Limited with Premium Package begins at $32,999. Paint options for both trims include, Black Metallic, Deepwater Metallic and Maroon Metallic over Crimson Metallic.
The 2022 Pursuit lineup will begin shipping to Indian Motorcycle dealers throughout the U.S. and Canada in early 2022.
Riders can learn more at their local Indian Motorcycle dealership by visiting IndianMotorcycle.com, or by following along on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
ABOUT INDIAN MOTORCYCLE®
Indian Motorcycle is America’s First Motorcycle Company®. Founded in 1901, Indian Motorcycle has won the hearts of motorcyclists around the world and earned distinction as one of America’s most legendary and iconic brands through unrivaled racing dominance, engineering prowess and countless innovations and industry firsts. Today that heritage and passion is reignited under new brand stewardship. To learn more, please visit www.indianmotorcycle.com.
Apple CARPLAY® is a registered trademark of Apple Inc.; BOSCH® is registered to Robert Bosch GmbH; FOX® is a registered trademark of Fox Factory Inc.; Unless noted, trademarks are the property of Indian Motorcycle International, LLC.
Marc Marquez (93) receives the red flag during FP4 at Phillip Island in 2019. Photo courtesy of Repsol Honda.
FIM Grand Prix World Championship
Decision of the Grand Prix Commission
The Grand Prix Commission, composed of Messrs. Carmelo Ezpeleta (Dorna, Chairman), Paul Duparc (FIM), Herve Poncharal (IRTA), and Biense Bierma (MSMA), in an electronic meeting held on 4 February 2022 made the following decision:
Sporting Regulations
EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY
Race Classification in an Interrupted Race
Previously, if a race was red flagged and a final result declared, the result was taken from the lap on which all riders had last crossed the finish line. If a rider or several riders were half a lap or more behind the race leader, this caused the race classification to be taken from the previous lap, even when the race leader and the majority of the field had completed the next lap. In these cases, any position changes or crashes on the race leader’s final lap were rendered moot.
Effective immediately, the result of a red flagged race will now be taken from the last time the race leader crosses the finish line before the red flag is shown. All riders who cross the finish line on the same lap as the leader before the red flag will be classified in that order, as a partial classification.
Any riders who do not cross the finish line on the same lap as the leader before the red flag is shown will be classified based on where they crossed the finish line on the previous lap.
These two partial classifications will be combined to provide the final race result.
This system previously applied to races that were red flagged after the race leader had taken the chequered flag, and will now apply to all red flagged races for which a final result is declared.
A 2022-model KTM 890 Duke GP. Photo by Kiska, courtesy KTM.
2022 KTM 890 DUKE GP – A NEW DUKE STEPS INTO THE RING WITH A UNIQUE GP-INSPIRED LIVERY
February 22, 2022
MURRIETA, Calif. – KTM North America, Inc. is excited to announce the addition of the KTM 890 DUKE GP to the 2022 DUKE lineup, an exciting visual alternative with a GP-derived livery and a loud KTM orange palette. Complete with a new passenger seat cover, adding to its aggressive styling and ‘R’ style orange wheels, the KTM 890 DUKE GP proudly makes its intentions known.
The KTM 890 DUKE GP presents a compact and well-balanced performance motorcycle made for riders who relish fast country roads. It strikes the ideal balance between high performance and agility, with real-world riding demands and usability.
A 2022-model KTM 890 Duke GP. Photo by Kiska, courtesy KTM.
Making use of the astonishing LC8c parallel twin, the KTM 890 DUKE GP churns out respectable power figures from the most compact engine in this segment, maintaining the bragging rights of being the chosen platform for producing the most agile motorcycle in its class.
The same can be said about the overall design. The KTM 890 DUKE GP is aggressive in its stance, bristling with typical KTM design highlights and purposeful, compact proportions. Thanks in part to lightweight craftsmanship and advanced engineering, the KTM 890 DUKE GP is also one of the lightest motorcycles in its segment, with special attention given to the overall riding experience.
Agile and precise handling comes courtesy of geometry developed specifically for sporty street riding—the KTM 890 DUKE GP is all about handling. High-quality WP APEX suspension at each end ensure a perfect connection with the road and promote ultimate riding confidence.
On the electronics front, the KTM 890 DUKE GP boasts one of the most advanced and complete packages in the midrange segment, including Cornering MTC with a 6D lean angle sensor that not only detects the side-to-side and forward-backward pitch, but also drift positioning.
The usual selection of ride modes – notably RAIN, STREET, SPORT and optional TRACK mode – ensure that the rider can individually tailor traction control, anti-wheelie control and throttle control. These, and the usual staples of Cornering ABS, Supermoto ABS, a full-color TFT display and LED lighting all-around, make the KTM 890 DUKE GP a formidable opponent in any street fight.
With a new look to match its already legendary performance and character, the KTM 890 DUKE GP stands out even more.
A full range of specially developed KTM PowerParts have been created to further intensify your ride. A selected range of KTM PowerWear ensures that the rider can match the performance of the KTM 890 DUKE GP.
The 2022 KTM 890 DUKE GP will arrive on authorized KTM dealer floors from April 2022 onwards. For more information, visit ktm.com.
Team Pedercini Principal Lucio Pedercini (left) and Loris Cresson (right). Photo courtesy Team Pedercini.
Loris Cresson confirmed at TPR Team Pedercini for 2022 WorldSBK season
With the 2022 FIM Superbike World Championship season fast approaching TPR Team Pedercini Racing is delighted to confirm that they will field Loris Cresson aboard a Kawasaki ZX-10RR for a second year.
Cresson will embark on his sophomore season keen to add to his WorldSBK points tally to date and to further close the gap to the front and the TPR Pedercini Racing squad, who remain committed to developing young talent, are excited to see what the young Belgian rider can do now that he is injury free.
The team will begin their pre-season testing schedule at Catalunya in March before travelling to other circuits and on to MotorLand Aragon ahead of the season opener at the Spanish venue in early April.
In addition to fielding Loris Cresson in 2022, TPR Team Pedercini Racing are hopeful of entering ‘wildcards’ and the team are working hard behind the scenes to ensure a second bike is on the grid at several events.
Lucio Pedercini – Team Principal: “2021 was a year of mutual understanding. 2022 will be the year in which we will do our best to achieve the goals we have set ourselves. We are happy to have Loris Cresson in our team again this year and I am delighted to finally be able to confirm this… our adventure continues, and we are looking forward to making a step on track this year. As a team we are also updating our team website and will be interacting with our fans and the fans of WorldSBK in a much more dynamic way. I can also say that we are working hard behind the scenes and are confident that a second machine will be on track at some point during the season.”
Loris Cresson: “I am more than happy to continue with the TPR Team Pedercini Racing. It’s been a long winter discussing everything with the team and in the end, we were able to find a solution to continue together. Lucio is a great guy, and we share the same end goal. I am happy to continue with my guys inside the box because we found a good way to work as last year progressed. There was always a good atmosphere and I trust the guys completely. I can’t wait to get back on the race bike but in the meantime, I will test a stock bike like many riders do to be in the best shape possible. The plan looks good, and it should be a good year for us. The level in WorldSBK is high but my target is to score points in all of the races, and I feel strong mentally and after my injury I am also now feeling strong. I want to thank all my family, Andi and everyone who is supporting me and also to Lucio and the entire TPR Team Pedercini because they too have made sacrifices to make this happen.”
A Buell Hammerhead V-Twin sportbike. Photo courtesy Buell.
Buell® Sales & Leadership Team Ready to Rumble at Daytona Bike Week
Grand Rapids, MI – When Buell Motorcycle announced their return in 2021, the industry took notice. Their stated goals were to assemble a top-notch leadership team, start production, and design new models. Buell has achieved those goals and plans to unveil their successes at Daytona Bike Week 2022.
After just a few months, Buell has achieved success with their Buellvana reservation & sales system and started delivering bikes, with VIN #’s 1 & 2 going directly to the Barber Motorsports Museum…proving yet again, that yes…Buell is Back!
“2021 was jam packed with successes for the Buell factory,” said Bill Melvin, CEO of Buell Motorcycle Co. “The leadership team is doing amazing, our factory production is in full swing, and sales reservations are exceeding our expectations.”
“Customers have responded very enthusiastically to our return and love the ease of our Buellvana® online reservation system,” said Melvin. “Most of our sales are just word of mouth among motorcycle enthusiasts and loyal followers.”
With new Buell Hammerhead 1190 and 1190 SX model motorcycles in production and being delivered to customers nationwide, want to see first-hand what all the buzz is about? Check out the new models up close and personal, and on-display at Destination Daytona during Daytona Bike Week 2022, March 4 – 13.
Opportunities to reserve a limited production slot by placing a $25 dollar reservation are still available by going to www.BuellMotorcycle.com and by visiting the Daytona Bike Week Buell display. You’ll receive a limited-edition Buell hat too!
In addition to viewing the current models on display at Daytona, you can get a glimpse at future product under development and rub elbows with the Buell team members that are ensuring Buell is Back…and here to stay.
“We made sure to add the right people with the experience and passion needed to revive this beloved brand,” said Melvin. “Now our leadership team is focused and firing on all cylinders.”
A few of the leadership team members available during Daytona Bike Week are:
Dean Guard, Chief Product Engineer – with 36+ years at GM focused on world-wide gasoline powertrain development, Dean’s senior leadership and technical experience blend nicely warranting successful integration happens among all things powertrain. Working across all departments to brings new products to life, Dean’s hands-on approach is a guiding light.
Tim Holland, Chief Technical Officer – as the recent Head of Lotus Engineering’s test and development operations, Tim’s led teams focused on powertrain development, racing applications, not to mention new product and prototype development. With over 35 years of experience in the automotive field, if it’s part of the powerplant, Tim’s fingerprints are all over it.
Steve Laham, Chief Products, Development & Strategy – he’s an icon in the powersports industry having led Butch’s retail success, steered Sea-Doo® through challenging times, launched the uniquely designed BRP Spyder® and led the Evinrude® reinvention at BRP. With over 35 years of powersports experience, Steve leads a no stone unturned approach to driving business.
The Buell leadership team is a collection of passionate powersports enthusiasts who just also happen to be seasoned and experienced powersports businesspeople. Go talk with them at Daytona Bike Week 2022.
Buell is back, with motorcycles on display at Dayton Bike Week, and delivering excitement at every turn.
For future Buell updates, follow our news page on our website and our social media pages.
Acosta smashes the lap record in a show of intent on the Algarve
The rookie sensation heads both the timesheets and a Red Bull KTM Ajo 1-2 as testing concludes in Portugal
Monday, 21 February 2022
If anyone had doubts about the hype surrounding Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Ajo), the time to surrender them is now. It’s a new year, new class, new number but the same sensation as the Moto2™ rookie smashed the lap record in testing at the Autodromo Internacional do Algarve, putting in a 1:41.552 to start the Jaws music early for the rest of the field.
In some further 2021 deja vu, Augusto Fernandez made sure it was a Red Bull KTM Ajo 1-2 as he ended Monday 0.154 off his teammate, with Aron Canet (Flexbox HP 40) completing the top three. Fermin Aldeguer (MB Conveyors Speed Up) put the Boscocuro in fourth, 0.563 off the top, with Albert Arenas (GASGAS Aspar Team) for close company.
There were a couple more tenths back to Ai Ogura (Idemitsu Honda Team Asia), with Joe Roberts just 0.011 back as his second season with Italtrans Racing Team gets off to a solid start. Jake Dixon (GASGAS Aspar Team) and Celestino Vietti (Mooney VR46 Racing Team) were next up, with Jorge Navarro (Flexbox HP 40) completing the top ten.
There were a number of crashes including one for Bo Bendsneyder (Pertamina Mandalika SAG Team) that saw the Dutch rider break his collarbone and another for Marcel Schrötter (Liqui Moly Intact GP) that led the German to leave early for a medical check on his hand.
The first session is when Schrötter crashed, as did teammate Jeremy Alcoba, Zonta van den Goorbergh (RW Racing GP) and Arenas. Canet crashed twice. In the second session, Canet, Alcoba and van den Goorbergh crashed again, and Bendsneyder suffered his tumble. Dixon also fell, as did Alessandro Zaccone (Gresini Racing Moto2), Gabriel Rodrigo (Pertamina Mandalika SAG Team) and Aldeguer. Filip Salač (Gresini Racing Moto2) took two tumbles. Sam Lowes (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team) also remained sidelined as he aims to recover from tendonitis in his wrist ahead of the Qatar GP.
After three interesting days on the Algarve, it’s now time to look ahead to racing and the Qatar GP. The lights go out in less than two weeks, so check out motogp.com and social media for more interviews and content from Portugal and then get in gear for Moto2™ 2022!
Foggia egdes out Migno with new lap record on Monday
The Italian hits back to end the test fastest, with a new lap record enough to deny Migno by half a tenth
Dennis Foggia. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Dennis Foggia lost the top spot to new teammate Tatsuki Suzuki on Sunday, but by the end of Day 3 the Italian was back on top and with a new lap record no less. His 1:46.990 makes him the only rider under the 1:47 barrier as testing concludes in Portugal, although the number 7 was only 0.052 ahead of Andrea Migno (Rivacold Snipers Team) to take the spoils. Sophomore Izan Guevara (GASGAS Aspar Team) completed the top three, 0.334 off the top, with the first session bearing the most speed for the majority of the field, top three included.
Ayumu Sasaki (Sterilgarda Husqvarna Max) was fourth quickest, around half a second off the searing new lap record, with rookie David Muñoz (BOE SKX) for close company in fifth as the Spaniard continued to impress and the timesheets tightened. Day 1 and 2’s fastest rider, Tatsuki Suzuki, ended Monday in P6, ahead of Jaume Masia (Red Bull KTM Ajo), Deniz Öncü (Red Bull KTM Tech 3), Sergio Garcia (GASGAS Aspar Team) and Kaito Toba (CIP Green Power). The biggest gap between fifth and tenth was just 0.037, and the tiny deficits continued throughout the field.
Suzuki and Migno crashed in the first session, with Garcia and rookie Brit Scott Ogden (VisionTrack Racing Team) taking tumbles in the second session. There were no fallers in the final outing of the day for Moto3™.
That’s a wrap on official testing for the lightweight class, now all there’s left to do is race. Foggia will arrive in the Qatar GP as both the 2021 runner up and fastest rider in preseason, but can the Italian get his campaign off to a dream start? Check out interviews and more on motogp.com to get the lowdown from the test, and then strap in for the Qatar GP on the 6th of March!
More, from a press release issued by Marc VDS Racing Team:
Elf Marc VDS Racing Team completes pre-season preparations in Portugal
The Elf Marc VDS Racing Team ended a busy and productive winter testing campaign at the Algarve International Circuit today, with Tony Arbolino putting the finishing touches to his preparations for the start of the 2022 Moto2 World Championship.
Arbolino and teammate Sam Lowes, who was absent from today’s action in Portimao with a recurring tendonitis issue in his left wrist, will return to track action on March 4 in Qatar for the opening Free Practice session of 2022 ahead of the much anticipated first race two days later.
Tony Arbolino #14
Arbolino’s constant progression throughout the entire pre-season continued in impressive fashion today, with additional chassis set-up tweaks allowing him to gain more stability in high-speed corners.
A busy final day included plans to complete a full 23-lap race simulation and the Italian was setting a fast and consistent pace when his long run was unfortunately interrupted by a red flag.
Arbolino did get chance to assess Dunlop’s soft rear tyre option but rather than attack hard for a fast time he preferred to work on the balance of his Kalex machine with the extra grip available.
“We go to Qatar optimistic we can be competitive”
“We have worked incredibly hard over these three days in Portimao, and we made a lot of changes to the bike to find our ideal base set-up heading to the first race in Qatar. The crew really had to work so hard but I’m sure this will be rewarded when we go racing. We have understood a lot of things about our package at this test and we also found solutions to some of our problems, so we go to Qatar optimistic that we can be competitive. If we continue to work in the way we have done during winter testing then we can achieve some great results together this season. My crew and I go to Qatar fully motivated to show our best potential in the first race.”
More, from a press release issued by KTM Factory Racing Tech3:
Red Bull KTM Tech3 Completes Portimao Test and is More than Ever Ready for New Season
The preseason is coming to an end for the Red Bull KTM Tech3 team after completing three days of testing in Portimao, in addition to two private sessions held in Valencia and Jerez earlier this month. Both Deniz Oncu and Adrian Fernandez were able to finalize their preparations for the 2022 season, set to start in Qatar on March 6.
Following his crash during the second session yesterday, Deniz was declared fit to ride this morning for the final day. Although his left ankle has been painful, he was brave enough to be willing to get on the bike this morning and finish the testing programme started with his crew. With excellent track conditions today, the Turkish rider, who is entering the new season as a championship contender, significantly improved his lap-time this morning to 1’47.659. Over the last three days, the team tested different bike settings in order to find a perfect fit to the rider’s style, and Deniz is confident that some positive information came out of it. It is now time to go home and rest before starting his third season in the Moto3 class.
Our new recruit, Adrian Fernandez, leaves Portugal feeling very positive and happy about his new environnement. Indeed, Pitito seems to be settling well with his new team and his new bike. Over the last three days, he registered 139 laps and we saw improvement day after day. Together with his crew, the aim was to find a good set-up for Adrian to feel comfortable in order to reach his potential, do fast laps and get a good race pace. This morning, he got very close to 1’47, reaching his best-lap time in 1’48.074. Just like his teammate, it is now time to go home and get some rest before starting his first season with the Red Bull KTM Tech3 family.
Deniz Oncu
Best-Lap Time: 1’47.659
Cumulated Day 1 + Day 2 + Day 3 Laps: 111
“We finished three days of testing here in Portimao before the first race in Qatar. We have tried a lot of different things on the bike with the team, and have found some really good set-ups to fit my riding style. However, these last three days have been tough for me but my injury is not so bad. I will now go home to recover in order to get ready for Qatar next week.”
Adrian Fernandez
Best-Lap Time: 1’48.074
Cumulated Day 1 + Day 2 + Day 3 Laps: 139
“These three days in Portimao have been very good. I feel good on the bike, with the team, and I am looking forward to starting racing in Qatar. Today was a good day, in particular because I was able to improve my pace, but what is important is the race pace, and we will see what I can do in Qatar. Time to go home to rest before heading to Qatar.”
Hervé Poncharal
Team Manager
“It has been an intense three days of testing here in Portimao for the Red Bull KTM Tech3 team. The weather was good to us and we were able to get good track conditions, although Day 1 was a bit windy. I think that both Deniz and Adrian worked really hard and I believe that we are ready for Qatar. We wanted to leave Portugal with a good amount of laps under our belt, a good feeling from both riders with their crews and their bikes.
Unfortunately for Deniz, he had a quite heavy crash during the second session of Day 2. Luckily, no big damage, but he has twisted his left ankle and is currently in a lot of pain. He decided very bravely to continue to ride on Day 3 and significantly improved his lap-time without pushing to the limits too much. Deniz is feeling really good on the bike, he made some clear improvements over the winter both on himself and on his riding style, and I believe that he is set to have an amazing 2022 season. He will now fly back home to treat his foot, get some rest, and go to Qatar fully fit and ready to go.
From Adrian’s side, it feels that he is now feeling comfortable with his new environnement. His riding style and technical feedback improved everyday, as well as the lap times, and we feel that there is plenty more to come. He has a big smile on his face and is looking forward to the start of the new season, and I am really happy about this because I want him to feel at home with us.
Our team will now have a few days off to rest and reflect on the preseason, before traveling to Qatar to start a very long, but exciting, new season.”
More, from a press release issued by BOÉ SKX Team:
BOÉ SKX finishes pre-season testing among the best in Moto3
The Spanish team finishes the pre-season with a great improvement of its riders in the three days of official Moto3 tests, in which David Muñoz was the best rookie, finishing fifth and Ana Carrasco was twenty-ninth with a good progression.
The official pre-season tests for Moto2 and Moto3 have come to an end at the Portimão circuit with a great performance from BOÉ SKX. The team directed by José Ángel Gutiérrez Boé concludes an intense preseason that began with four days of private testing in Jerez, to which are added these three days of official testing at the Portuguese track.
These three days have been really positive for the whole team with a clear improvement day after day of the two BOÉ SKX riders, a test in which for the first time in 2022 all the riders of the grid have seen each other face to face on track.
As planned, the team clocked up a lot of kilometres. In total, the two BOÉ SKX riders completed 323 laps during these days, with 159 laps for David Muñoz and 164 in the case of Ana Carrasco. In addition, none of the riders had any crashes or technical problems, so these tests have been very positive for the whole team.
One of the most outstanding riders of the test was David Muñoz. The Andalusian, who is the youngest rider on the grid, has surprised many with a great adaptation from the first moment. Muñoz has been consistently among the top ten fastest in each session, and showed his intentions from the first day with the third fastest time of the day (1:48.858). On Sunday he was again very consistent with a very competitive pace. He also improved his time from the previous day with a fastest lap of 1:48.333, which put him ninth in the standings. David Muñoz continued in great form on the last day, setting his best time of the test with a 1:47.618, a lap that finished the three days in fifth place overall and with which he has become the best rookie of the test.
Ana Carrasco continues with her adaptation period and was also very consistent, a hard work that paid off with better times and feelings in every outing on track. While on the first day Carrasco’s best lap was 1:52.503, on the second day she improved by more than two seconds. Even on the third and final day he managed to lower the time to 1:49.293, a time he did on the last lap of the last session riding alone and that has been enough for him to finish in twenty-ninth position but, above all, to gain more confidence with this new bike.
David Muñoz – P5 (1:47.618): “I’m very happy with how everything went. It was the first time I competed against all the riders in the World Championship, many of them have a lot of experience, and to finish in the top five is a great result for me. I made a big step forward, I didn’t know where I was really going to be. Every day we competed well, the first day we were third, on Sunday in the last run after some adjustments we improved again and today was a perfect day for me. I am very happy with the work of the whole team, I want to thank them and all the people who support me”.
Ana Carrasco – P29 (1:49.293): “I’m quite happy, although we still have a lot of work to do. From when I started three weeks ago with this bike until now we have made a big step forward. Last week in Jerez I was able to ride fast and here I have improved day by day. My goal is to keep closing the gap to the fastest riders, I think we are doing that, but we have to keep working. What we are really lacking are kilometres and time with the bike, we have to keep learning, today I finished the day wanting to have another run because I think I could keep improving because the team is helping me to understand how to get a good performance. The lap time I think it could have been better, but we have to be happy because we started quite far off on the first day and now we are much closer. I’m looking forward to keep improving”.
José Ángel Guiérrez Boé: “We are very happy with the three days of testing. We have prepared very well for this new season and I am satisfied with the work of the whole team. David Muñoz has surprised more than one by being constantly among the fastest. We know that he is very talented and hard-working, and these results support our confidence in him. In the case of Ana, we are very happy with the progress she is making. The result should not deceive us, Ana is still in a period of adaptation to this new bike and with the great work of the whole team she has been able to improve in every outing. She feels much more comfortable and we are looking forward to continue seeing her grow with us. With these tests and the ones in Jerez we have been working many days in a row, and the team has performed exceptionally well. We are ready and excited”.
With the conclusion of these tests, the next stop for the team will be the Qatar Grand Prix, to be held over the weekend of 5-6 March.
More, from a press release issued by Mooney VR46 Racing Team:
OFFICIAL PORTIMAO TEST: VIETTI RAMUS IN THE SLIP STREAM OF THE FASTEST GUYS. STEPS FORWARD FOR ANTONELLI
The Mooney VR46 Racing Team duo closes the pre-season respectively in P9 and P23 in the combined standings of the three days
Portimao (Portugal), February 21st 2022 – At the end after seven days of testing between Spain and Portugal the pre season of the Moto2 couple of the Mooney VR46 Racing Team. Challenging sessions but a closing in crescendo before leaving for Qatar with Celestino Vietti Ramus in P9 and Niccoló Antonelli 23rd.
Over 160 laps for Celestino who in FP7 manages to break the wall of 1.42 before trying a race simulation in his final run (FP8 ndr) to better understand the new 2022 Kalex over the long distances. Absolutely positive feelings and a best lap time of 1.42.512.
Gradual but constant growth for Niccolò, 121 total laps, who today signs a best lap time of 1.43.507. He was able to improve his personal crono by over two seconds during the three days.
For both, together with their teammates of the MotoGP Team, Luca Marini and Marco Bezzecchi, the next appointment scheduled is the presentation of the new livery of the Mooney VR46 Racing Team live on Facebook and Youtube on February 24th at 12.00 pm CET before leaving for Qatar GP, the first race of 2022.
Celestino Vietti #13
I’m looking forward to Qatar three challenging days at the end of a five-day session if we also count Jerez. We finished positively, each session I made a step forward and the Day3 was particularly good in several respects. We are not at 100% yet but we continue to work in this direction towards the first race of the season, on one of my favorite tracks.
Niccolo Antonelli #28
Overall we have to be happy with the step forward we made even though I would have liked to have done more. The first day here at Portimao was a bit complicated, I have struggled a lot, but then we managed to reset and close with a good final lap time. We continue like this for Qatar and the debut in the new category. I can’t wait to show you the new liveries the next week!
Luca Brivio
Team Manager
Three intense days of work where we continued to know the new Kalex and try different solutions for the upcoming season. We continued the Jerez program, we are happy with what we have done, especially Celestino for the nice step forward in the Day3 on the race simulation. Niccolò did a good job too, we must consider that he is a Rookie and is still taking measurements with the new power of the bike. We can’t wait to reveal the new liveries and then leaving for Qatar.
More, from a press release issued by Yamaha VR46 Master Camp Team:
YAMAHA VR46 MASTER CAMP TEAM LEVEL UP AT PORTIMAO TEST
The Yamaha VR46 Master Camp Team enjoyed an exciting debut at the roller coaster track that is the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve. After three full-on days at the Portimao Moto2 & Moto3 Official Test, rookie riders Manuel Gonzalez and Keminth Kubo finished in 25th and 26th place respectively on Day 3.
Portimao (Portugal), 21st February 2022
Following their online team launch on February 18, the Yamaha VR46 Master Camp Team have sprung into action at the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve for the Portimao Moto2 & Moto3 Official Test, held from February 19-21. New entries Manuel Gonzalez and Keminth Kubo made the most of their time on track, soaking up as much information and experience as possible during their official debut as Moto2 World Championship riders. They finished in 25th and 26th place in the combined timesheets on Day 3.
Coming from the Supersport series, Gonzalez used the Portimao Test to adapt to his new bike. Even windy conditions on Day 1 couldn‘t keep the Spanish talent from finishing in an encouraging 18th place with a 1‘44.746s fastest lap. On the sunny second day he found an improvement of nearly one second. The number-18 rider continued working hard to understand the bike better on the final day of testing, completing 37 more laps to come to a total of 152 laps. A 1’43.593s earned him 25th place in the combined Day 3 timesheets, 2.041s from first.
Kubo made good steps during the first official test. He has three years of CEV Moto2 experience and used it to jump from a best time of 1‘45.699s on Day 1 to a 1‘44.481s on Day 2. Working closely together with his crew chief Alessandro Finelli, the technical solutions found on the second day of testing also led to positive results on the third day. After riding 36 laps today and 146 in total, he completed the test with a best time of 1’43.706s, for 26th place, 2.154s from first.
GELETE NIETO
SPORTS DIRECTOR
Our work in Portimao is done. It was a ’normal test‘. Our team is still brand new, so we didn‘t really look too much at the times. It‘s still too early for that. We need to understand the bike first, and also all the crew members need to adjust first because we are at the start of our work together as a team. But I think that the method of the team is correct. The riders did technical debriefs with the crew chiefs every day after the sessions. They liked that a lot because it‘s a good opportunity to share information of course, but also to get to know each other better. I think the alignment in the team is very nice. I think we will be improving race by race, and we will try our best at the upcoming round in Qatar.
Manu‘s test was good because he understands his bike better now. For sure, it‘s a difficult transition for him from Supersport to the Moto2 class. These three days were probably not the time for him to fully understand everything. We need to improve a lot of things, but that‘s to be expected at the start of his journey.
I think Kubo will go home happy because he improved a lot on the second and third day of testing. He is always improving, and he did a good test. But obviously he also needs to learn a lot because we are far from the top now. I think that the results will become better step by step. His feeling with the bike is good, and the bike is not moving too much.
Manu and Kubo did a lot of laps here, and that‘s very important for their learning process. This category is very difficult. It‘s the most difficult class to get the position on the bike right. For this reason, these three days of testing were very important, and luckily the weather was so nice! We are ready for the first race.
MANUEL GONZALEZ
25th / 1’43.593s / +2.041
It has been a very difficult day for us. We changed a lot of things on the bike, but the problem was still there and still big. I thought that at this point I could go very fast with this bike, and to me it‘s a shame it‘s not happening because this problem is holding me back. Luca Capocchiano tried to help me a lot, but I feel the same also with big changes. Now the test is over, I will put my mind to the Qatar GP, and I can be positive because I am happy that we tried a lot. I‘m learning how to adapt to this bike.
KEMINTH KUBO
26th / 1’43.706s / +2.154
I‘m happy about these tests and about today. I did really many laps, and in the morning we improved the lap time compared to yesterday. We changed the setting of the bike a bit, and we continued to improve also in the afternoon. Finally, the gap gets closer to the top, and I‘m satisfied about today‘s results. Now it‘s almost time to go to Qatar. It will be the first real GP for me, and I‘m quite nervous!
More, from a press release issued by QJMotor Avintia Racing:
QJMOTOR AVINTIA RACING CONCLUDES THE PORTIMAO OFFICIAL TEST
Portimao (Portugal), 21st February 2022
QJMotor Avintia Racing has finished the Official Tests in Portimao with very good feelings ahead of the start of the season on March 4th at the Qatar International Circuit.
During these three days of testing, both riders have continued their adaptation work, both to the bike and to the team. Matteo Bertelle already knew the track, unlike Elia Bartolini who this was the first time he rode on the Portuguese track.
Bartolini, despite suffering a small crash on the first day, rode very steadily during the three tests days, managing to stop the clock at 1’48.328. For his part, Bertelle set a time of 1’48.577 in some very beneficial tests for him ahead of the first race of the championship.
On March 4th, 5th and 6th, the inaugural Grand Prix of the season will take place at the Qatar International Circuit.
#23 ELIA BARTOLINI – 1’48.328
“The test has gone quite well, we have worked very well with the team. I am happy with the work done since we have continued testing things, even so I am happy with the result, despite the fact that this last day I have not managed to improve my time I’m happy with the line of work we’ve been carrying out. I’ve managed to maintain a good position in the final classification and I’m already looking forward to the race in Qatar.”
#18 MATTHEW BERTELLE – 1’48.577
“The test went quite well, fortunately we were able to ride as my wrist hurt a bit on the first day. We worked very well with the team and we leave Portimao happy and eager to start the season in Qatar.”
More, from a press release issued by Italtrans Racing Team:
Italtrans Racing Team completes positive Portimao Test
Everything is set for the new 2022 season.
After the usual winter break, the spotlights have once again turned on the MotoGP World Championship. Italtrans Racing Team took to the track for the official Irta testing in Portimao, Portugal, before the Grand Prix of Qatar, scheduled on 4-5-6 March in Doha.
Lorenzo Dalla Porta and Joe Roberts had the opportunity to get more confidence with their Kalex, after the several technical innovations the team made in the months of stop.
With both riders the results are more than positive.
Roberts confirmed to be one of the fastest in the category, finishing the three days of testing 4th, 5th and 7th, with a best time of 1’42”187.
Dalla Porta also had a very positive feeling, constantly improving his times, finishing 13th on Saturday and Sunday and 14th in the last session, with a best lap time of 1’42”992.
Lorenzo Dalla Porta #19:
“We made some changes to the bike compared to last year and gathered some important data. We go to Qatar ready and aware that we can do well: my shoulder has improved a lot and I’ll be ready to give my best”.
Joe Roberts #16:
“Positive test for the team. We all work hard, trying new things on the bike in different direction. The pace is good and I feel really confident and excited for Qatar. I can’t wait to start the season”.
Franco Brugnara – Lorenzo Dalla Porta’s Crew Chief:
“It was a positive test despite Lorenzo is still not at his best. He ride well at Portimao, showing tenacity and determination. Now he has a few more days to recover before moving to Qatar”.
Giovanni Sandi – Joe Roberts’ Crew Chief:
“I’m happy with the way the team worked with Joe over the last few days: he has been consistent, calm and quiet, showing all his qualities. We started off on the right foot and I’m confident that we will maintain this pace”.
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