Interview: Indian VP Gary Gray On Why Indian Races Baggers

Trudy Ulrich

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July 27, 2022

Interview: Indian VP Gary Gray On Why Indian Races Baggers

Featured In the July 2022 issue of Roadracing World:

Some companies look at road racing as only being suitable to promote sportbike sales, and some complain if a motorcycle they define as being for street use is even taken to a racetrack.

So why is Indian running a serious, factory racing team in the MotoAmerica King Of The Baggers series? We talked to Gary Gray, Indian Vice President of Racing, Technology & Service to find out…

—Why Indian Races Baggers, by David Swarts

It was a long time ago, but it’s important to remember that Indian’s founders actually met at a racetrack! Since its founding in 1901, Indian has won at the Isle of Man and was at one time the dominant force in flat track racing. So the MotoAmerica King Of The Baggers class was a natural fit for a company that wanted to get back into racing. Read all about the company’s rationale for going racing in the latest issue of Roadracing World!

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MotoAmerica: Team Hammer Trusts R&G In MotoAmerica Competition

David Swarts

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July 27, 2022

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TEAM HAMMER TRUSTS R&G IN MOTOAMERICA COMPETITION

Team Hammer has partnered with R&G again in the 2022 MotoAmerica AMA/FIM North American Road Racing Championship for crash protection products.

Based in the United Kingdom, R&G has earned its reputation for innovation and quality by producing a class-leading line of race-proven and stylish aftermarket sportbike accessories designed specifically for motorcycle protection.

Every Vision Wheel M4 ECSTAR Suzuki GSX-R has been fitted with R&G engine covers, radiator screens, and chain guards, among other R&G products, to help protect the racebikes in the event of a crash.

R&G Managing Director Simon Hughes said, “After an incredible season in 2021 which saw them secure the MotoAmerica Supersport title, we were really excited to be back sponsoring Team Hammer again for 2022 as they compete in the Superbike and Supersport classes. The MotoAmerica series continues to go from strength to strength, so this is a fantastic opportunity for us to continue to expand our reach in racing paddocks across the globe.”

R&G utilizes high-density polyethylene, aircraft- grade metals and ABS plastic in its products range, which also include sliders, exhaust and tank protectors, side stands, and crash bars. Designed via the innovative use of 3D scanning and CNC machining, R&G ensures the perfect fit for the more than 50,000 products it produces for more than 400 bike models.

“We rely on R&G’s line of products to protect the vital parts of our motorcycles during a crash and help keep our riders in the race,” said Team Hammer’s Chris Ulrich. “We had instances in the 2021 season when we earned points after a crash and this was absolutely critical in our MotoAmerica Supersport Championship run.”

About R&G

R&G is the world’s number one manufacturer of motorcycle crash protection and the only such one to be awarded insurance approval.

Formed in 1999 with the express intention of designing, manufacturing and distributing quality crash protection for motorcycles, R&G now offers nearly 5,000 SKUs for hundreds of bikes.

R&G’s products have won numerous awards from a variety of trade and consumer motorcycle press and they are used to protect and enhance the machines of many teams and riders in the British Superbike and club racing paddocks. The Company invests heavily in the motorcycle industry every year and 2022 is the eighth consecutive season R&G will be the ‘Official Crash Protection Supplier’ to the British Superbike Championship; with a dedicated support service attending each round. Also entering its eighth year is the R&G Rookies’ Trophy, which helps to promote young and up-and-coming riders in the BSB paddock..

R&G is also continuing to offer all ACU, SACU and MCUI motorcycle race license holders 10% discount on its products

The Company employs 50 people, plus field-based agents, and, due to the global growth of its business, constantly expands its purpose-built industrial units near Alton, Hampshire, England.

ABOUT TEAM HAMMER

The 2022 season marks Team Hammer’s 42nd consecutive year of operating as a professional road racing team. Racebikes built and fielded by Team Hammer have won 129 AMA Pro and MotoAmerica National races, have finished on AMA Pro and MotoAmerica National podiums 342 times and have won 11 AMA Pro and MotoAmerica National Championships, as well as two FIM South American Championships (in Superbike and Supersport.) The team has also won 137 endurance races overall (including seven 24-hour races) and 13 Overall WERA National Endurance Championships with Suzuki motorcycles, and holds the U.S. record for mileage covered in a 24-hour race. The team also competed in the televised 1990s Formula USA National Championship, famously running “Methanol Monster” GSX-R1100 Superbikes fueled by methanol, and won four F-USA Championships.

WorldSBK: Gerloff Wants To Show His “Real Potential” At Autodrom Most

David Swarts

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July 27, 2022

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WorldSBK: Gerloff Wants To Show His “Real Potential” At Autodrom Most

GYTR GRT YAMAHA WORLDSBK TEAM ENTER HALFWAY STAGE OF SEASON AT MOST

The GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team is gearing up for the sixth round of the 2022 FIM Superbike World Championship campaign at Autodrom Most, with Garrett Gerloff and Kohta Nozane eager to a enjoy a strong weekend on Czech soil.

Two weeks ago in Donington, Gerloff scored a solid seventh in Race 1 after showing good speed to claim the fastest lap in Free Practice 3. The American then finished 10th and 11th respectively in the Superpole Race and Race 2.

The 26-year-old heads into the weekend aiming to build on his promising pace, and hopes to convert his speed into an improved position in qualifying and the races at Most.

On the other side of the box, Nozane unfortunately missed out points in the British round, but made progress throughout the weekend. The Japanese rider is eager to improve this weekend and add more points to his 2022 tally.

After the Free Practice sessions and Superpole qualifier, Race 1 will get underway at 14:00 local time (GMT +2) on Saturday, with Race 2 starting exactly 24 hours later on Sunday, following the SPRC at 11:00.

Garrett Gerloff #31:

“Thankfully we have another race weekend just two weeks after Donington. The British one was not the best for us, but we still learned some good lessons, and I really want to show our real potential in Most. Let’s see what will happen, looking at the weather we might have tricky conditions, but I just want to jump back on track and be fast.”

Kohta Nozane #3:

“Donington was a tough weekend for us, but luckily we have another round to show that we can fight further up the grid. We might try something different to be faster and I really look forward to getting out there, where we can see whether these changes will translate into better results.”

MotoAmerica: Gagne Takes Slim Superbike Championship Lead To Brainerd

David Swarts

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July 27, 2022

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MotoAmerica: Gagne Takes Slim Superbike Championship Lead To Brainerd

Defending Champion Gagne Leads MotoAmerica Medallia Superbikes To Land Of 10,000 Lakes

Jake Gagne Leads The Charge To Brainerd International Raceway, July 29-31

IRVINE, CA (July 27, 2022) – How do you make up for two non-finishes in the first three rounds of the MotoAmerica Medallia Superbike Championship? Well, you win seven of the 10 races that you do finish. And if you accomplish all that, your name is Jake Gagne.

For the first time in 2022, defending MotoAmerica Medallia Superbike Champion Gagne is atop the championship standings, albeit by just three points over Danilo Petrucci, as the series heads to Brainerd International Raceway in Minnesota this week for round seven of the 10-round (20-race) championship.

Gagne took the lead in the title chase at the last round at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. He did so with a sweep of the two races on the Monterey Peninsula, his third and fourth race wins in a row and his sixth and seventh wins of the season.

Gagne’s Fresh N Lean Progressive Yamaha Racing teammate Cameron Petersen has coined the phrase “Jake doing Jake things.” And that’s exactly what Gagne did at Laguna Seca. Although he failed to get pole position for the first time all season (that went to Westby Racing’s Mathew Scholtz), Gagne was perfect in the two races. “Jake doing Jake things” is basically leading into the first corner, throwing down two to five really fast laps, then maintaining his advantage to the finish. And having a bit of fun to boot. Then, in the post-race press conference, Gagne tells us that the next race will be closer and that the “boys” will be fighting with him for the win. Liar, liar, pants on fire… at least so far.

Unfortunately for the rest of the MotoAmerica Medallia Superbike field, Gagne is now as comfortable or even more so with his Yamaha YZF-R1 than he was a season ago. The change came at Road America but didn’t pay dividends until round five at the Ridge Motorsports Park when Gagne swept to two race wins. Gagne being comfortable is a bad thing for the competition. In case you’ve been living in a cave, a “comfortable” Gagne won 17 races last year en route to the title.

So, what will it take to stop the Gagne train? It will take someone stepping up. Ironically, it will take one of the Big Four (which obviously includes Gagne) to start doing “Jake things.”

So far, the man most likely to do that is Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati NYC’s Danilo Petrucci, with the Italian just three points behind and the only rider other than Gagne to win more than one race. Petrucci has won three, though those three came in the first three races and seem like a distant memory to the former MotoGP winner. Most thought Laguna was going to be Petrucci’s best hope of winning again. After all, it was a track he knew and a track where Loris Baz, the rider Petrucci replaced on the Ducati Panigale V4 R, finished a fighting second to Gagne in both races a year earlier at Laguna.

Petrucci finished third and second in the two races at Laguna, but he was 4.6 seconds behind in race one and 5.5 seconds behind in race two. Petrucci, however, is still firmly entrenched in this title battle, thanks to an amazing run of consistency that has seen him land on the podium in 10 of the 12 races.

Thus, Petrucci goes to Brainerd, a track he has yet to race on (he did a track day there earlier this year) and a track where Gagne won both races a season ago, trailing by just three points and knowing that stopping Gagne needs to happen quickly if there’s any hope of taking his championship away.

Petersen moved to third in the championship point standings at Laguna Seca, the South African on a current run of five straight podiums that pushed him past countryman Mathew Scholtz with the Westby Racing rider crashing out of race two for his second non-finish of the season.

Petersen has the advantage (or disadvantage?) of watching how Gagne goes about his business from close-up. So far, he’s taken advantage of being on the most successful team in the paddock with his best season to date, but like the others he’s trying to figure out how to stop his teammate – especially in the early laps. Petersen also gained confidence by beating Petrucci in a straight fight in race one at Laguna.

Scholtz hopes to bounce back from a less-than-stellar performance in California where the Westby rider was fourth in race one prior to the aforementioned crash in race two – scoring 11 points to Petersen’s 36. Thus, Petersen now leads Scholtz by five points heading to BIR.

The first of the non-Big Four is Tytlers Cycle Racing’s Hector Barbera, the Spaniard scoring sixth- and fifth-place finishes at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca.

Vision Wheel M4 ECSTAR Suzuki’s Richie Escalante is coming off his best Superbike weekend to date with two fourth-place finishes as the 2020 MotoAmerica Supersport Champion continues his impressive rookie season of Superbike racing. Escalante trails Barbera by 18 points and leads PJ Jacobsen, Barbera’s Tytlers Cycle Racing teammate, by 12 points.

The injured Jake Lewis is eighth in the championship and hopeful of being healthy enough to race at Brainerd. The Vision Wheel M4 ECSTAR Suzuki rider suffered a broken thumb that required surgery in his crash at Ridge Motorsports Park and was forced to miss the Laguna round. Lewis is just six points ahead of Aftercare Hayes Scheibe Racing’s Ashton Yates, the Georgian having an off weekend at Laguna and leaving California with just three points from the two races.

The battle for 10th in the championship is heated with Yates, Tytlers Cycle/RideHVMC Racing’s Travis Wyman currently holding the spot but just four points ahead of his teammate Corey Alexander and 10 points ahead of Disrupt Racing’s Hayden Gillim.

The first of two Medallia Superbike races at Brainerd International Raceway will take place on Saturday, July 30 at 3:10 p.m. Sunday’s 20-lap race two will also take place at 3:10 p.m.

BIR Pre-Race Superbike Notes…

Last year marked the return of AMA Superbike racing to Brainerd International Raceway with MotoAmerica bringing the championship back to Minnesota after a 17-year hiatus. The winner in 2004… Jake Zemke, who serves as rider coach and manager for several riders in the MotoAmerica paddock.

In addition to AMA Superbike racing, Brainerd International Raceway (nee Donneybrooke Speedway) also hosted the World Superbike Championship for three years – 1989, 1990 and 1991.

History Lesson: Three-time 500cc World Champion and MotoAmerica President Wayne Rainey never lost an AMA Superbike race at Brainerd International Raceway. In 1983, Rainey beat Mike Baldwin and Wes Cooley to take victory on his Kawasaki; in 1986, he beat Fred Merkel and Gary Goodfellow to take the win on a Honda; and in 1987, he topped Kevin Schwantz to take his third AMA Superbike win at BIR, again on a Honda.

With his two victories at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca a few weeks ago, Jake Gagne now has 24 career AMA Superbike wins, which puts him seventh on the all-time AMA Superbike win list. Gagne is four wins behind former AMA and World Superbike Champion Ben Spies. The Texan is sixth with 28 wins.

Jake Gagne won both MotoAmerica Medallia Superbike races last year. Gagne beat Bobby Fong and Mathew Scholtz in race one and Scholtz and Loris Baz in race two.

In addition to winning both races, Gagne also earned pole position via his 1:29.898 in qualifying. Gagne was joined on the front row by Baz and Scholtz. Since 2021 was the first visit of the MotoAmerica series to BIR and the first on the layout that differs substantially from the one used in 2004, Gagne’s qualifying lap was also a lap record.

As for fastest race laps, Gagne nailed that as well with his 1:29.922 from race two the fastest from his two race wins and almost as fast as his qualifying record.

Thirty-seven Superbike riders will attempt to qualify for the two Medallia Superbike races at BIR.

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.

Canadian Superbike: More From Atlantic Motorsport Park

David Swarts

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July 26, 2022

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Canadian Superbike: More From Atlantic Motorsport Park

Young takes a Double Win and Pole at Shubie

After a two-year hiatus from racing on the East Coast, Ben Young returned with a vengeance, securing the double-win and pole position at Atlantic Motorsports Park. Just like Young’s last visit to Shubie in 2019, the track brought the heat and the drama, making for a fantastic weekend’s racing.

The excitement kicked off on Friday with the Superpole session in which Young and title rival Alex Dumas tied for pole position. Young crossed the line with seconds to spare to complete a clean flying lap, and ended up putting in a 1:07.521 – matching Dumas to the thousands of a second. Confusion ensued as this was unprecedented in the Canadian Superbike Championship. Ultimately, Young and Dumas would both earn the full 4 championship points for pole position, and grid positions for the race would come down to a coin toss. Young won the coin toss and had his sights set on the top of the box for the weekend’s races.

With a heat warning in effect, the lights went out to start race one of the premier superbike class. Young had a great start off of the line going into turn one in second position. The Van Dolder’s BMW M1000RR was solid throughout the typically rough track, and Young put on a great show for fans putting pressure on first position, even swapping paint at one point. The pair were wheel to wheel for the first half of the race, and eventually the pressure was too much for Dumas. Entering turn five, Dumas crashed out and Young took first position. Young won the race, earning him his 8th national Superbike victory and significantly increasing his championship lead.

Sunday came with no relief from the heat, but fans would be rewarded with great racing. The start of the race was slightly delayed due to some spitting rain. This would continue on and off for the race, though more as a “mental rain”, as it was evaporating on the tarmac as quickly as it fell. Young got off the line and slotted into 3rd position on the first lap behind Dumas and Trevor Daley. Young navigated his BMW by Daley and made the chase for the lead by the second lap, but had to make up what was now a two-second gap to first position. Young put in consistent pace and made a pass on Dumas to take first position. Despite the spitting rain and hot temperatures, Dumas kept pushing and Young let him past, falling into second and allowing his rival to set the pace of the race. With two laps to go, Young got a great drive onto the back straight and retook first position. Feeling comfortable, he put in a couple of flying laps and went on to take his second win in as many days at Shubie.

Having accomplished full points at Atlantic Motorsports Park, Young now holds a strong 31-point advantage in the Canadian Superbike Championship going into the final round at Canadian Tire Motorsports Park in a few weeks, where he hopes to secure his second Championship title.

Of the weekend, Young had this to say: “It was great to be back East at by far the most technical track we visit. We had two very different races with all sorts of situations thrown our way. It was great to walk away with another double win this year and extend the points on the championship lead”

The next, and final round is a triple-header held August 12-14th at Canadian Tire Motorsports Park (Mosport), Bowmanville, ON – a track which always brings out great racing.

Young’s partners for his 2022 CSBK Championship season include; BMW Motorrad Canada, Van Dolder’s Home Team, Scot-Build Developments Inc, Parts Canada, HJC Helmets, Alpinestars, Hindle Exhaust, Barrie Trim and Mouldings, Clearlite, Primitive Patterns, DP Brakes, Alpha Racing and Vass Performance Cycle.

To keep up-to-date on Ben Young throughout the year visit; www.BenYoungRacing.com, www.facebook.com/BenYoungRacing and on Twitter and Instagram: @benyoung_86.

R.I.P. AMA Hall Of Famer Bobby Hill

David Swarts

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July 26, 2022

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AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famer Bobby Hill Passes

PICKERINGTON, Ohio — The AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame offers its condolences to the loved ones of AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famer and member of the Indian Wrecking Crew Bobby Hill, who recently passed away just days after celebrating his 100th birthday.

Hill was born July 8, 1922, in Triadelphia, W. Va. When Hill was a teenager his brother worked at a local Harley-Davidson dealership, giving Hill an opportunity to familiarize himself with motorcycles.

At age 16, Hill bought his first bike, a Harley-Davidson WLD 45 cu. in. model. His passion for racing soon followed when he joined a motorcycle club in Wheeling, W. Va.

Starting as a novice in 1940, Hill quickly excelled at racing, but his promising career was put on hold during World War II when he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps.

After the war Hill picked up where he left off, nearly winning the first professional race of his career at the 1947 Daytona 200.

With a desire to further his racing career, Hill moved to Grove City, Ohio, to be closer to the racing action. His commitment paid off Aug. 8, 1948, when he won his first national in Atlanta. The race was made more memorable in that Hill shared the victory with AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famer Billy Huber, who crossed the finish line simultaneously.

Hill claimed back-to-back AMA national titles in 1951 and 1952, the front end of Indian’s three-year title streak that was capped off by fellow Wrecking Crew member and AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famer Bill Tuman. Marked by the success and loyalty of Hill, Tuman and AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famer Ernie Beckman, the Indian Wrecking Crew made sure the fading Indian company did not go quietly into the night.

Hill further left his mark when he captured a victory at the Daytona 200 in 1954 to win the first-ever AMA Grand National Series race.

In 1959, Hill hung up his racing leathers and retired. He stayed busy in the 1960s as an engine builder, modifying Harley-Davidsons for several well-known racers.

In his personal life, Hill married his wife Nancy and had three children.

Hill was inducted into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in 1998.

About the American Motorcyclist Association

Founded in 1924, the AMA is a not-for-profit member-based association whose mission is to promote the motorcycle lifestyle and protect the future of motorcycling. As the world’s largest motorcycling rights and event sanctioning organization, the AMA advocates for riders’ interests at all levels of government and sanctions thousands of competition and recreational events every year. Besides offering members money-saving discounts on products and services, the AMA also publishes American Motorcyclist, a recently revitalized and monthly full-color magazine (and digital version of same) that covers current events and motorcycle history with brilliant photography and compelling writing. American Motorcyclist is also North America’s largest-circulation magazine. Through the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio, the AMA honors the heroes and heritage of motorcycling. For more information, visit americanmotorcyclist.com.

Not a member? Join the AMA today: americanmotorcyclist.com.

American Mikey Lou Sanchez Is P4 In ESBK Moto4 Race At MotorLand Aragon

David Swarts

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July 26, 2022

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American Mikey Lou Sanchez Is P4 In ESBK Moto4 Race At MotorLand Aragon

American Mikey Lou Sanchez achieves his best results thus far in the ESBK Spanish Superbike Championship Moto 4 class at MotorLand Aragon.

Mikey Lou, age 12, started the race weekend off well on Friday feeling confident because last year he was able to finish on the Cuna de Campeones Moto5 podium at MotorLand Aragon.

In Friday’s first practice session, he was able to get in the top 10, but he struggled in FP2. He was not worried going into Saturday morning’s Qualifying session; He was determined and ready. With that confidence, he was able to qualify P4 – his best qualification so far this year.

In Race One, Mikey got off to a great start and ran with the front group. On lap three, he made a mistake in Turn One, which put him back 1.6 seconds from the leaders. He was able to catch back up quickly, however, and had an intense battle with the other five riders in the lead group and finished fourth – 0.163 second behind the race winner!

American Mikey Lou Sanchez (55) finished fourth, 0.163 second back, in Moto4 Race One. Here, Izan Rodriguez (49) reaches the finish line ahead of Iaroslav Karoushin (70), Alvaro Lucas (46), Sanchez (55), Mathias Tamburini (18), and Andres Garcia (48). Photo courtesy Sanchez Racing.

Going into Race Two on Sunday, Mikey said, “I’m going to win today! I know exactly where I need to be on the last lap to make it happen!”

But unfortunately, Mikey and another pilot were taken out on lap four by another rider’s mistake.

Mikey Lou Sanchez (55) crashes along with Archie Gibbs (3) during Moto4 Race Two at MotorLand Aragon. Photo courtesy Sanchez Racing.

“The entire family was confident,” said Trinity Richardson, Sanchez’s mother. “We knew Mikey could win here. It’s an unfortunate situation, but we’re glad Mikey and the other riders are ok and we are even more confident that he will do well in the next race at Circuito de Navarra on September 3-4!”

We would like to thank everyone who supports Mikey: Shawn Knoche, Roadway Traffic Control, Williams Custom Painting, Fondu, San Marcos Iron Doors, Texas Motorcycle Academy, Harris Hill Flattrackers, Moto Liberty, Paul Stamper, and Niemi Fine Art.

American Flat Track: High-Flying Peoria TT Is July 30

David Swarts

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July 26, 2022

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American Flat Track: High-Flying Peoria TT Is July 30

Wiles Returns to Battle Stacked Field for 75th Peoria TT

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (July 26, 2022) – While the opening nine rounds of the 2022 Progressive American Flat Track season played out on oval dirt tracks of all sizes, the second half will kick off on Saturday, July 30, with the first TT. And it’s not just any TT, it’s the World Famous SC2 Peoria TT presented by Country Saloon.

Set in the Peoria Motorcycle Club’s scenic natural amphitheater in Peoria, Illinois, and boasting history and tradition that’s nearly unrivaled across two-wheeled sport, the Peoria TT easily ranks among the most prestigious races on the Progressive AFT slate.

Reigning Mission SuperTwins presented by S&S Cycle champion Jared Mees (No. 1 Indian Motorcycle/Progressive Insurance FTR750) has accomplished almost every possible goal in his Hall-of-Fame-worthy career, but victory at the Peoria TT has proven just outside his grasp.

While Mees has finished as the race’s runner-up on multiple occasions, he’ll enter this year’s 75th edition of the fabled race as the underdog. Despite his vast skill and past success, Mees will be faced with perhaps the most stacked premier-class Peoria TT field in recent memory.

His three closest championship rivals all carry high hopes into Peoria. Second-ranked Briar Bauman (No. 3 Indian Motorcycle/Progressive Insurance FTR750) won the race in 2019 and enters the weekend riding high after two consecutive victories. Third-ranked Dallas Daniels (No. 32 Estenson Racing Yamaha MT-07 DT) is the home track hero who scored his first career professional win at the venue in dominant fashion. And fourth-ranked JD Beach (No. 95 Estenson Racing Yamaha MT-07 DT) won last year’s Peoria TT by more than three seconds to claim his fourth win of the series’ most recent five TTs.

If the opposition didn’t look formidable enough already, “King” Henry Wiles (No. 17 Willy Built Kawasaki Ninja 650) is set to make his Progressive AFT return this weekend. Wiles is the most successful rider in the race’s history, assembling an incredible 14-race win streak from 2004-2018.

Other riders who could have say include ‘19 race runner-up Bronson Bauman (No. 37 Latus Motors Racing Harley-Davidson XG750R) and last year’s fourth-place finisher, Jarod Vanderkooi (No. 20 Mission Roof Systems Indian FTR750), not to mention the Mission Production Twins Challenge entrants, who have the potential to prove particularly potent in Peoria.

Mission Production Twins presented by Vance & Hines

Chief among the aforementioned group is Mission Production Twins presented by Vance & Hines title leader Jesse Janisch (No. 33 Vance & Hines Harley-Davidson XG750R).

Janisch’s three-prior undercard Peoria TT victories is what earned him his shot on the Vance & Hines XG750R initially with the team in need of an injury replacement as it headed to the venue a year ago. Janisch has since shed his reputation as a TT specialist with the sort of all-around excellence required to build a title lead in a season thus far absent of TTs, but that discipline-specific expertise remains.

A year ago, Janisch finished third in his first-ever ride on the bike. He’s much more at home aboard it now and should only prove that much more formidable. And he’ll need to be in order to overcome last year’s winner and second-place finishers, Dan Bromley (No. 62 Vinson Construction/Viper Air Yamaha MT-07) and Ben Lowe (No. 25 Mission Foods/Roof Systems Yamaha MT-07).

With Janisch expecting to make hay, the weekend will be of equal importance to defending champion Cory Texter (No. 1 G&G Racing/Yamaha Racing Yamaha MT-07), who currently sits on point out of first.

Others who could make his life difficult include the returning Johnny Lewis (No. 10 Moto Anatomy X Powered by Royal Enfield 650) and Cole Zabala (No. 51 Memphis Shades/Corbin/Vinson Yamaha MT-07), who have each previously demonstrated impressive TT chops.

Parts Unlimited AFT Singles presented by KICKER

The Peoria TT will be the ultimate test of Kody Kopp (No. 12 Red Bull KTM Factory Racing 450 SX-FFE)’s recent Parts Unlimited AFT Singles presented by KICKER invincibility. Kopp certainly has the skill to extend his four-race win streak in Peoria, flashing front-running pace a year ago before ultimately finishing down in ninth position.

The 17-year-old has taken his game to another level in ‘22, and as such, he’s expected to be a serious player. However, he’ll be contending with a field anxious to bring his run of unmitigated success to a halt, led by the likes of last year’s Peoria TT winner Max Whale (No. 18 Red Bull KTM Factory Racing 450 SX-FFE) and 2017 DAYTONA TT winner Dalton Gauthier (No. 79 American Honda/Progressive Insurance CRF450R).

The race also traditionally presents an opportunity for some riders ranked outside the top ten to work their way into the mix, including teammates Ferran Cardús (No. 377 Roof Systems of Dallas/Bullet Strong Racing Honda CRF450R), who finished on the podium a year ago, and Jacob Lehmann (No. 14 Roof Systems of Dallas/Bullet Strong Racing), who was triumphant here back in 2014.

Visit https://store.americanflattrack.com/ebooking/ticket/view/id/3695 to reserve your tickets today. General Admission tickets are just $35 with kids 12 and under free when accompanied by an adult. There’s also the VIP Admission ticket that includes access to the

Turn 1 VIP Lounge available for $125 (all ages).

Gates will open for fans at 10:00 a.m. ET/6:00 a.m. PT with Opening Ceremonies scheduled to begin at 2:30 p.m. ET/11:30 a.m. PT ahead of the day’s race program. You can catch the livestream of all the weekend’s racing activities on FansChoice.tv. FansChoice.tv provides free-to-view livestreaming of Practice and Qualifying. FansChoice.tv subscribers will then be able to watch the drama unfold from Opening Ceremonies through the Semis, Main Events, and podium celebrations. FansChoice.tv offers two subscription options, granting unlimited access to premium AFT content. Monthly subscriptions start at just $7.99, while a six-month subscription is available for $44.99.

The SC2 Peoria TT presented by Country Saloon will premiere on FS1 on Sunday, August 7, at 11:30 a.m. ET/8:30 a.m. PT, including exclusive features, cutting-edge aerial drone and onboard footage, and expert commentary.

For more information on Progressive AFT visit https://www.americanflattrack.com. To score the latest gear for the Progressive American Flat Track fan, visit our official merchandise store at https://store.americanflattrack.com.

How to Watch:

FOX Sports and FansChoice.tv are the official homes for coverage of Progressive American Flat Track. For the 2022 season, all races will premiere in one-hour telecasts on FS1 during highly desirable weekend time slots. The complete schedule can be viewed at https://www.americanflattrack.com/events-foxsports. FansChoice.tv provides livestreaming coverage of every Progressive AFT round at http://www.FansChoice.tv.

Camacho, Mesa Set New Lap Records At MSR Cresson, Roebling Road

David Swarts

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July 26, 2022

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Camacho, Mesa Set New Lap Records At MSR Cresson, Roebling Road

Stefano Mesa Returns to Setting Records with Pirelli DIABLO™ Superbike Slicks at Roebling Road Raceway

Mesa Becomes Second Pirelli Nation Rider to Set a Track Record in 2022

ATLANTA, Ga. – Pirelli Tire North America captured its second absolute motorcycle track record of the 2022 racing season as Stefano Mesa put in an impressive performance at Roebling Road Raceway in Georgia. The new lap record was set aboard a 2022 Kawasaki Ninja® ZX™-10R motorcycle equipped with Pirelli DIABLO Superbike slicks.

“It feels good to get my first track record of the year,” said Mesa. “Each year we raise the bar a little higher, which means these become a little harder to go out and get. Fortunately, I’m able to improve alongside a brand like Pirelli that is continuously introducing new tires that allow me to achieve these records.”

Mesa’s new lap record of 1:10.052 in the WERA Motorcycle Roadracing Series was set using Pirelli’s DIABLO Superbike SC2 125/70R17 front and DIABLO Superbike SC0 200/65R17 rear slicks on his ZX-10R motorcycle.

“Another year and another track record for Stefano,” said Oscar Solis, Senior Racing Manager, Pirelli. “He continues to impress us with his performances time after time. Roebling was recently re-paved, so we knew there were going to be some fast times during the weekend. Stefano, along with our trackside vendor James Bock of Podium Motorsports, were able to exploit it to lower the outright lap record. Congratulations, Stefano!”

JC Camacho (right) with John Hutchinson of Pirelli's trackside racing tire vendor South Central Race Center. Photo courtesy Pirelli. — JC Camacho (right) with John Hutchinson (left) of Pirelli’s trackside racing tire vendor South Central Race Center. Photo courtesy Pirelli.

Pirelli’s first absolute motorcycle track record of the season was set by JC Camacho at Motorsports Ranch (MSR) on the CW rotation course last month. Camacho’s new lap record of 1:13.998 was also achieved using a ZX-10R motorcycle. Pirelli continues to remain the motorcycle tire of choice for North American riders looking to reach the top step of the podium and log fast laps at events and series that do not have a spec tire rule. Reward prizes are offered to riders who set a new motorcycle track record while using Pirelli race compound tires.

For more information about the complete line of Pirelli motorcycle tires, please visit Pirelli.com

DIABLOTM is a registered trademark of Pirelli Tire S.p.A

MotoGP: CryptoDATA Tech Is Title Sponsor Of Austrian GP Through 2024

David Swarts

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July 25, 2022

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MotoGP: CryptoDATA Tech Is Title Sponsor Of Austrian GP Through 2024

CryptoDATA Tech to title sponsor Austrian GP

The new MotoGP™ sponsor and leader in blockchain applied technologies, CryptoDATA Tech will take top billing at Red Bull Ring – Spielberg in 2022 and the following two seasons

Monday, 25 July 2022

Dorna Sports and Cryptodata Tech, a Romanian company that develops hardware and software cybersecurity solutions based on blockchain technology, are delighted to announce that CryptoDATA Tech will be the title sponsor of the Austrian Grand Prix in 2022, 2023, and 2024. CryptoDATA Tech will take top billing at the Grand Prix of Red Bull Ring – Spielberg, which will be officially named the CryptoDATA Motorrad Grand Prix von Österreich.

CryptoDATA Tech develops high-performance products and services with unique cybersecurity attributes applicable in various domains due to their integrated features based on blockchain technology and encryption with an environmentally friendly approach. By delivering unique projects and customized products, CryptoDATA meets both the needs of its partners and those of tech users worldwide. One of its flagship products is Wispr, an instant messaging app beneficial to motorsport fans so they can communicate freely and without restrictions anywhere in the world, powering the passion and commitment of the motorsport community.

CryptoDATA Tech and Dorna Sports are starting a new and exciting partnership as CryptoDATA Tech assumes top billing as a title sponsor for three Austrian Grands Prix over three seasons.

Ovidiu Toma, Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of CryptoDATA Tech: “We are incredibly pleased to start our partnership with Dorna Sports as we become the first Romanian company to take over title sponsorship for Grand Prix events. We share their commitment to innovation, and we want to show that blockchain technology can power positive initiatives for environmental change, for people, and the motorsport community on and off track, as it represents one of the most transparent and secure technologies with high applicability in various fields outside the crypto sphere. Therefore, technology and innovation are at the core of what we do, which strategically aligns with the sport of racing, and together we will create amazing experiences at the intersection of digital technologies and MotoGP.”

Manel Arroyo, Chief Commercial Officer, Dorna Sports: “We’re delighted to announce CryptoDATA as the title sponsor of the Austrian Grand Prix for the next three editions. MotoGP is grounded in innovation and invention, making this the perfect partnership. It’s fantastic to sign a three-event deal with CryptoDATA and we look forward to seeing them take top billing at the Red Bull Ring; one of the most spectacular backdrops on the calendar.”

CryptoDATA Tech is a global ambassador for promoting the importance of data security and digital privacy worldwide. The company has pioneered the development of services and products based on blockchain technology that enable private and secure communication between users and therefore between motorsport fans. Starting from the premise of discovering digital privacy, CryptoDATA Tech provides cyber solutions without restrictions for travelling users who want to protect their personal information by providing them with devices and applications that offer enhanced digital security.

The 2022 CryptoDATA Motorrad Grand Prix von Österreich takes place from the 19th to the 21st of August.

Interview: Indian VP Gary Gray On Why Indian Races Baggers

July 27, 2022

Indian Motorcycle Vice President Gary Gray signals #1 as the Mission Foods/S&S Cycle/Indian Challenger Team bike of Tyler O'Hara is pushed into victory lane. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.

Featured In the July 2022 issue of Roadracing World:

Some companies look at road racing as only being suitable to promote sportbike sales, and some complain if a motorcycle they define as being for street use is even taken to a racetrack.

So why is Indian running a serious, factory racing team in the MotoAmerica King Of The Baggers series? We talked to Gary Gray, Indian Vice President of Racing, Technology & Service to find out…

—Why Indian Races Baggers, by David Swarts

It was a long time ago, but it’s important to remember that Indian’s founders actually met at a racetrack! Since its founding in 1901, Indian has won at the Isle of Man and was at one time the dominant force in flat track racing. So the MotoAmerica King Of The Baggers class was a natural fit for a company that wanted to get back into racing. Read all about the company’s rationale for going racing in the latest issue of Roadracing World!

Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology is THE definitive source for motorcycle racing, riding, and tech information.

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MotoAmerica: Team Hammer Trusts R&G In MotoAmerica Competition

July 27, 2022

Team Hammer relies on R&G for crash protection on its Suzuki GSX-R racebikes, like the Superbike of Richie Escalante (54). Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy Team Hammer.

TEAM HAMMER TRUSTS R&G IN MOTOAMERICA COMPETITION

Team Hammer has partnered with R&G again in the 2022 MotoAmerica AMA/FIM North American Road Racing Championship for crash protection products.

Based in the United Kingdom, R&G has earned its reputation for innovation and quality by producing a class-leading line of race-proven and stylish aftermarket sportbike accessories designed specifically for motorcycle protection.

Every Vision Wheel M4 ECSTAR Suzuki GSX-R has been fitted with R&G engine covers, radiator screens, and chain guards, among other R&G products, to help protect the racebikes in the event of a crash.

R&G Managing Director Simon Hughes said, “After an incredible season in 2021 which saw them secure the MotoAmerica Supersport title, we were really excited to be back sponsoring Team Hammer again for 2022 as they compete in the Superbike and Supersport classes. The MotoAmerica series continues to go from strength to strength, so this is a fantastic opportunity for us to continue to expand our reach in racing paddocks across the globe.”

R&G utilizes high-density polyethylene, aircraft- grade metals and ABS plastic in its products range, which also include sliders, exhaust and tank protectors, side stands, and crash bars. Designed via the innovative use of 3D scanning and CNC machining, R&G ensures the perfect fit for the more than 50,000 products it produces for more than 400 bike models.

“We rely on R&G’s line of products to protect the vital parts of our motorcycles during a crash and help keep our riders in the race,” said Team Hammer’s Chris Ulrich. “We had instances in the 2021 season when we earned points after a crash and this was absolutely critical in our MotoAmerica Supersport Championship run.”

About R&G

R&G is the world’s number one manufacturer of motorcycle crash protection and the only such one to be awarded insurance approval.

Formed in 1999 with the express intention of designing, manufacturing and distributing quality crash protection for motorcycles, R&G now offers nearly 5,000 SKUs for hundreds of bikes.

R&G’s products have won numerous awards from a variety of trade and consumer motorcycle press and they are used to protect and enhance the machines of many teams and riders in the British Superbike and club racing paddocks. The Company invests heavily in the motorcycle industry every year and 2022 is the eighth consecutive season R&G will be the ‘Official Crash Protection Supplier’ to the British Superbike Championship; with a dedicated support service attending each round. Also entering its eighth year is the R&G Rookies’ Trophy, which helps to promote young and up-and-coming riders in the BSB paddock..

R&G is also continuing to offer all ACU, SACU and MCUI motorcycle race license holders 10% discount on its products

The Company employs 50 people, plus field-based agents, and, due to the global growth of its business, constantly expands its purpose-built industrial units near Alton, Hampshire, England.

ABOUT TEAM HAMMER

The 2022 season marks Team Hammer’s 42nd consecutive year of operating as a professional road racing team. Racebikes built and fielded by Team Hammer have won 129 AMA Pro and MotoAmerica National races, have finished on AMA Pro and MotoAmerica National podiums 342 times and have won 11 AMA Pro and MotoAmerica National Championships, as well as two FIM South American Championships (in Superbike and Supersport.) The team has also won 137 endurance races overall (including seven 24-hour races) and 13 Overall WERA National Endurance Championships with Suzuki motorcycles, and holds the U.S. record for mileage covered in a 24-hour race. The team also competed in the televised 1990s Formula USA National Championship, famously running “Methanol Monster” GSX-R1100 Superbikes fueled by methanol, and won four F-USA Championships.

WorldSBK: Gerloff Wants To Show His “Real Potential” At Autodrom Most

July 27, 2022

Garrett Gerloff (31). Photo courtesy GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team.

GYTR GRT YAMAHA WORLDSBK TEAM ENTER HALFWAY STAGE OF SEASON AT MOST

The GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team is gearing up for the sixth round of the 2022 FIM Superbike World Championship campaign at Autodrom Most, with Garrett Gerloff and Kohta Nozane eager to a enjoy a strong weekend on Czech soil.

Two weeks ago in Donington, Gerloff scored a solid seventh in Race 1 after showing good speed to claim the fastest lap in Free Practice 3. The American then finished 10th and 11th respectively in the Superpole Race and Race 2.

The 26-year-old heads into the weekend aiming to build on his promising pace, and hopes to convert his speed into an improved position in qualifying and the races at Most.

On the other side of the box, Nozane unfortunately missed out points in the British round, but made progress throughout the weekend. The Japanese rider is eager to improve this weekend and add more points to his 2022 tally.

After the Free Practice sessions and Superpole qualifier, Race 1 will get underway at 14:00 local time (GMT +2) on Saturday, with Race 2 starting exactly 24 hours later on Sunday, following the SPRC at 11:00.

Garrett Gerloff #31:

“Thankfully we have another race weekend just two weeks after Donington. The British one was not the best for us, but we still learned some good lessons, and I really want to show our real potential in Most. Let’s see what will happen, looking at the weather we might have tricky conditions, but I just want to jump back on track and be fast.”

Kohta Nozane #3:

“Donington was a tough weekend for us, but luckily we have another round to show that we can fight further up the grid. We might try something different to be faster and I really look forward to getting out there, where we can see whether these changes will translate into better results.”

MotoAmerica: Gagne Takes Slim Superbike Championship Lead To Brainerd

July 27, 2022

Jake Gagne (32). Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy MotoAmerica.