British Superbike: Ray Leads Championship Heading To Brands Hatch

David Swarts

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July 21, 2022

British Superbike: Ray Leads Championship Heading To Brands Hatch

Home hero Ray leads the way as Bennetts BSB reaches Brands Hatch

The Bennetts British Superbike Championship returns to Brands Hatch this weekend (22-24 July) for round five as the title fight hits the halfway mark ahead of the Showdown. Kent’s Bradley Ray holds the advantage at the top of the standings ahead of his local event, as he aims to keep the momentum going in front of his home crowd.

The Rich Energy OMG Racing Yamaha rider holds a 16-point lead ahead of the next three races this weekend having delivered his best start to a season, claiming three wins and a further seven podium finishes. However, McAMS Yamaha’s Jason O’Halloran is closing rapidly and he’s currently riding the crest of a wave after a double victory at Knockhill carried him to second in the standings.

The ‘Team Green’ counter attack though comes thick and fast from Lee Jackson and Rory Skinner as the Cheshire Mouldings FS-3 Racing teammates lock out third and fourth in the standings courtesy of their podium finishing form so far.

Kyle Ryde on the second Rich Energy OMG Racing Yamaha holds fifth in the standings and will be gunning for another win. He’s just ahead of Glenn Irwin, who is aiming to replicate the form that carried him to a Silverstone hat-trick at the start of the season.

Tommy Bridewell took the fight for the victories all the way to the chequered flag when the championship last visited Brands Hatch in 2021. The Oxford Products Racing Ducati rider will be aiming for nothing less than a fight for the podium at a circuit that has been strong for him in the past.

Danny Buchan completes the all-important top eight ahead of Brands Hatch; the SYNETIQ BMW rider holds a seven point lead over Josh Brookes; the rider who has won the most races on the Grand Prix circuit of the current grid. The MCE Ducati rider has yet to stand on the podium this season and his teammate Tom Sykes will also be eager to fire himself into contention for a Showdown position.

Reigning champion Tarran Mackenzie is returning to full fitness and the McAMS Yamaha rider has fond memories of Brands Hatch after his race wins last season took him to title glory. He will be hoping that a strong performance could get his title defence back on track after returning from injury.

Bennetts British Superbike Championship standings:

Bradley Ray (Rich Energy OMG Racing Yamaha) 216
Jason O’Halloran (McAMS Yamaha) 200
Lee Jackson (Cheshire Mouldings FS-3 Racing Kawasaki) 174
Rory Skinner (Cheshire Mouldings FS-3 Racing Kawasaki) 148
Kyle Ryde (Rich Energy OMG Racing Yamaha) 141
Glenn Irwin (Honda Racing UK) 134
Tommy Bridewell (Oxford Products Racing Ducati) 94
Danny Buchan (SYNETIQ BMW) 84

For more information on the Bennetts British Superbike Championship visit www.britishsuperbike.com

Bradley Ray – Rich Energy OMG Racing Yamaha

“We are still leading the championship four rounds in and have been so consistent; we have only been off the podium twice all year and one of those was a crash out of the lead and the other one was a fourth at Knockhill.

“Consistency is obviously key this year and podium points are what we are aiming for at the moment. As everyone knows the Showdown in another four rounds’ time so we need to keep racking up as many podium points as possible because at the end of the day when we get to the Showdown, that is what is going to make the difference.

“It obviously feels nice to be leading the championship but I am not thinking about that too much right now, the most important thing is to secure our place in the Showdown and have as many podium points as possible going into the final three rounds.

“I am really looking forward to head to Brands Hatch for my home race, going into this round after such a strong start to the season bodes well and the Yamaha seems to work very well around the Grand Prix circuit.

“I think it will be a wicked weekend and it would be nice to be on the top step at my home round in front of my fans and family who come to support me. I am fit and ready and I can’t wait to try and carry on this season as we are – keep smiling and feeling happy!”

US-Based Ryvid Releases Anthem – A $7,800 Electric Motorcycle

David Swarts

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July 21, 2022

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US-Based Ryvid Releases Anthem – A $7,800 Electric Motorcycle

RYVID INTRODUCES AEROSPACE-INSPIRED ELECTRIC MOTORCYCLE, THE ANTHEM

Irvine, Calif. – Ryvid, a US-based company specializing in innovative EV mobility, has announced the launch of the Anthem, a fresh take on two-wheeled urban transport. The first 1,000 units, which can be pre-ordered beginning Sunday, August 14, 2022, at 10 a.m. PST, will feature proprietary technology, including an ultra-lightweight monocoque-inspired chassis, Ergo-Easy ride height-adjustable seat, integrated rear drive unit and removable battery pack for easy charging.

The battery pack on the Ryvid Anthem is removeable, making recharging easier for apartment residents and office building workers. Image courtesy Ryvid.

The Anthem Launch Edition is a first-of-its-kind, customizable motorcycle that combines advanced aerospace technology with the simplicity of EV architecture, allowing anyone to experience riding in its most elemental form. It is capable of speeds up to 75+ mph with a range of up to 75+ miles (50 miles in Sport Mode) on a single charge and is ideally suited for commuting and urban transport.

The right side of a Ryvid Anthem Launch Edition electric motorcycle. Image courtesy Ryvid.

Its corrosion-free, lightweight frame is cloaked beneath minimal, sleek bodywork bringing its total weight to just 240 pounds (175 pounds without battery) with a carrying capacity of 400 pounds. The Anthem also has a modular head tube unit, adjustable front and rear suspension and an Ergo-Easy ride height-adjustable seat which allows the seat to electrically morph from 30” up to 34” – enabling a wide range of users. Furthermore, a 4.9-inch TFT display delivers information and key data such as speed and state of charge to the rider with ultimate clarity in any light.

The frame and rear drive unit of the Ryvid Anthem Launch Edition. Image courtesy Ryvid.

The EV’s easily removable and rollable 4.3 kWh lithium-ion battery can be charged in three hours on a 220V outlet or in six hours on a 110V outlet. The Anthem’s fully enclosed motor and belt drive is housed in the swingarm, a single-piece die-cast construction with integrated cooling fins for maximum efficiency. Enclosing the motor and belt drive also provides improved durability and low maintenance. Motor output is rated at 53 ft-lb of torque, which are transferred to the road via a 4.7:1 ratio, delivering up to 250 ft-lb at the final drive. Dynamic energy is also recaptured using regenerative braking technology.

“Especially in this climate, it makes sense to have something designed to optimize the rider experience without the hassles of repair associated with a typical motorcycle,” says Ryvid Founder and CEO Dong Tran. “Riding the Anthem is a personal experience, with a level of customization that translates to a feeling that the bike was built just for you. We’re not a powersports brand but a mobile sports company. We are thrilled to deliver a product that will hugely impact how people view electric micro-mobility and introduce the Anthem to a market we know is ready for it.”

Ryvid’s Anthem Launch Edition is priced at $7,800 and will have a limited lifetime warranty on the frame, two-year warranty on the power pack and one-year standard motorcycle warranty. Deliveries are slated to begin Summer of 2023. Pre-orders for the Anthem Launch Edition will be limited to 1,000 units and are only available at www.ryvid.com.

About Ryvid

Founded by enthusiasts, engineered by innovators, and designed by aerospace industry gearheads, Ryvid was formed by a desire to combine the heart of an EV with the soul of moto. The company’s name derives from the merging of “rhythm” and “avid,” elements of motion and emotion that define the experience of riding a Ryvid.

WorldSBK: Van Der Mark Extends Contract With BMW Motorrad

David Swarts

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July 21, 2022

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WorldSBK: Van Der Mark Extends Contract With BMW Motorrad

Michael van der Mark starts for BMW Motorrad Motorsport again in the 2023 WorldSBK.

Michael van der Mark enters his third season with the BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team in 2023.

BMW Motorrad Motorsport expects return from injury after the summer break.

Michael van der Mark: “I am sure that we have a successful future together”.

Munich. Michael van der Mark (NED) and BMW Motorrad Motorsport have extended their collaboration and will compete together again in the 2023 FIM Superbike World Championship (WorldSBK). 2023 will be van der Mark’s third season on the BMW M 1000 RR, and he will once again team up with Scott Redding (GBR) in the BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team.

Van der Mark has been a BMW Motorrad works rider since 2021. His biggest success to date on the BMW M 1000 RR came last season at Portimão (POR) where he took victory in the Superpole race. This season, injury has prevented the Dutchman from contesting any more than the races at his home event at Assen (NED). At the following event at Estoril (POR) he fractured his right femoral neck. He is currently in recovery. BMW Motorrad Motorsport expects him to return after the summer break in the WorldSBK.

“We are very pleased that Michael is remaining with us,” said BMW Motorrad Motorsport Director Marc Bongers. “In his first season, in 2021, he adapted very well to the BMW M 1000 RR, which was initially unfamiliar to him. He confirmed this with victory at Portimão. His contribution to the development of the M RR in its first season was hugely important to our whole project. Unfortunately, Michael has been plagued by injury since the winter. However, we are confident that, when he is fit and can race again, he will soon return to his original strength on the M RR, and be able to build on that. Even during this recovery period, Michael has remained closely involved in the BMW family. It is excellent that he will remain an integral part of the family in the future. It was important to us to complete the contract extension before the summer break, also to express our faith in him, which allows him to focus fully on his recovery. We are looking forward to his comeback and a strong 2023 season together.”

“I am very happy in the BMW Motorrad Motorsport family and pleased about the extension of our collaboration,” said van der Mark. “Unfortunately, for me personally, the current season has not worked out how I had imagined so far. However, I cannot change that. It is now important to recover fully. Personally, I want to get back on my BMW M 1000 RR as quickly as possible. I miss everything – the team, the bike, racing. However, all that matters is what the doctors say, and I am following their recommendations. We’ll have to see exactly when I can race again. I saw at Assen just how much potential the bike has this season, and the project has made further progress since then – you could see that in the recent races, and it was confirmed by Scott’s podium last time out at Donington. I am looking forward to returning to action and doing my bit. I am sure we have a successful future together.”

AHRMA Recaps The Classic MotoFest Of Monterey

David Swarts

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July 20, 2022

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AHRMA Recaps The Classic MotoFest Of Monterey

Vintage Music Thundered Across Laguna Seca as AHRMA hosted its second Classic MotoFest™ of Monterey

(July 20, 2022, Elora, Tennessee) The American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association descended on WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca this past weekend hosting their second AHRMA Classic MotoFest™ of Monterey, July 15-17. Perfect weather greeted racers and fans with a record attendance of 7,000. It was truly the sound of music as over 1,000 total race entries roared across this 522-acre facility.

“I am excited to announce these numbers as AHRMA showcased most of our disciplines over the course of three days! In my opinion, the west coast was treated to the best of what AHRMA has to offer, whether it was bikes ripping it up on the motocross, flat track and cross-country tracks, riding slow and precise in the trials or screaming down the Corkscrew on a vintage or modern road racer,” stated Brian Larrabure, AHRMA’s Chairman of the Board.

Vintage thunder echoed on the legendary Laguna Seca road course as racers maneuvered the famous Corkscrew as part of the 2022 Bridgestone Tires AHRMA National Historic Cup Roadracing Series rounds 15 and 16.

AHRMA’s Road Race Director, Dewanna Comer was pleased overall with the weekend’s outcome, “In keeping with our overarching theme this weekend, road racing too offered something for everyone. It was exciting to witness fans with tents in various areas of the track cheering on our full line of bikes. Whether it was the CB160 Le Mans start, our largest grid Sound of Thunder or crowd-favorite Sidecars, these guys and gals put on a show.”

The 4SR/Jemco AHRMA Dirt Track series dirt track was built in the dry lake bed area of the infield for the first time. The old saying, “Build it and they will come.” proved true as riders and fans alike enjoyed the groomed 1/8 mile oval.

Dirt Track Director Richard Brodock stated, “We had the vision and contacted the Salinas Ramblers. Through joint efforts we were able to provide a great racing experience. Entries included a Harley KR750, a BSA Gold Star and several Bultaco Astros. We learned a lot and expect next year to be bigger and better!”

Also being offered for the first time was AHRMA’s Bridgestone Tires Cross Country Series. The course start utilized the vintage motorcycle track and then dropped off into an adjacent canyon providing winding technical hills, dry washes and a purpose-built single track.

AHRMA’s new Off-Road Director, Terry McPhillips, reported, “I was excited to be a part of a great weekend of racing, hats off to our volunteers who helped pull this together!” With an impressive hill-side period correct scrambles style vintage motocross track AHRMA racers didn’t disappoint the fan-lined fence as they each raced to grab the hole-shot with the ultimate goal of being first to the checkered flag.

Spectators were treated to much more than an amazing weekend of historic racing, as the glue that brought the festival together, was affectionately termed the “Fun Zone” and was headed up by Laroque Motorsports. The Friday night 1AHRMA party featured a “Slow Race” sponsored by the California Motorcycle Safety Program. Scott Stewart was wearing a big smile as he received a $250 check for being the slowest rider in one of the most hotly contested races of the weekend! The Hagerty Vintage Motorcycle Bike Show brought museum quality machines along with knowledgeable owners glad to share the history and glamour of these machines. Additionally, the Fun Zone provided access to racing legends during autograph sessions, a July visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus, tools to entice and educate the younger crowd with the addition of Strider Bike and the “Mimi and Moto” book characters as well as a vintage motorcycle movie night.

“With a great initial reception by the public and our dedication to constantly improving and growing the festival atmosphere, we are looking forward to spreading the vintage motorcycle gospel to the masses and keeping our passion for the old bikes alive while moving into the next millennium,” stated Maruice Laroque.

If you missed this year’s AHRMA Classic MotoFest™ of Monterey, we invite you to mark your calendar for 2023 as AHRMA will return next year July 14-16.

About AHRMA:

The American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association (AHRMA) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated competing on fantastic classic and true vintage along with a wide range of modern motorcycles. With about 3,300 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.

AHRMA: Adams, Miller Split Vintage Cup Wins At Laguna Seca

David Swarts

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July 20, 2022

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AHRMA: Adams, Miller Split Vintage Cup Wins At Laguna Seca

Miller and Adams Split AHRMA Vintage Cup Wins* at AHRMA Classic MotoFest™ of Monterey

(July 20, 2022, Elora, Tennessee) – Mark Miller and Curtis Adams split wins during the latest rounds of the 2022 American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association (AHRMA) Vintage Cup at Laguna Seca.

Rounds 15 and 16 of the 2022 Bridgestone Tires AHRMA National Historic Cup Roadracing Series during the AHRMA Classic MotoFest™ of Monterey were held at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca in Monterey, CA July 16 and 17.

The 2022 Vintage Cup, sponsored by RoadracingWorld.com, features the Vintage Superbike Heavyweight class. With most of the series regulars not participating in these West Coast rounds, the podium was filled with fast racers from California.

On Saturday, Mark Miller, who was aboard a 1979 Kawasaki KZ1000, led the opening laps as Curtis Adams of Riverside, CA worked to reel him in. On lap five, Adams took the lead, but Miller pounced coming out of turn eleven to take the victory. Darrin Gauvin rounded out the top three aboard his 1981 Honda CB900F.

Following the race, Saturday’s results were made provisional pending an official appeal filed by Miller’s team after another competitor protested the eligibility of the machine. AHRMA officials are currently reviewing the protest under the appeal process.

On Sunday, Kevin Rammer, aboard a 1982 Honda CB650SC, took the hole shot but Adams was able to take the lead by the end of the first lap and ride to victory. California rider, David Crussell was second and Rammer third. Rammer, of Newnan, Georgia, earned valuable points as he is currently second in the points lead for the overall Vintage Cup title.

“The race today on Sunday was an opportunity to go out and test some tires,” Adams said. “AHRMA changed the rules this year allowing slicks in this class so we were working with Bridgestone to provide feedback that will help the series and other riders. We had to run a good pace just to do some testing.”

While Adams is relatively new to AHRMA, he has decades of racing experience. “A couple years ago I wanted to ride something. AHRMA put on a good show at Willow Springs, so I built a little single to go ride at an AHRMA event and hang out with everybody and give me a reason to be there,” Adams said. During 2020, and almost by chance, he was able to purchase his CB750F. “Once we owned it, we said ‘let’s see how far this goes.’”

The Vintage Superbike Heavyweight class is sponsored by International CBX Owners Association (ICOA).

Race dates and event registration links are available at: https://www.ahrma.org/schedules-results/

AHRMA National Historic Cup Roadracing Series Vintage Superbike Heavyweight – Vintage Cup Results

Saturday, July 16, 2022*

1. Mark Miller, 1979 Kawasaki KZ1000, Calabasas, CA (Provisional)

2. Curtis Adams, 1981 Honda CB750F, Riverside, CA

3. Darrin Gauvin, 1981 Honda CB900F, Camarillo, CA

4. David Crussell, 1978 Kawasaki Z1R, Sunol, CA

5. Kevin Rammer, 1982 Honda CB650SC, Newnan, GA

Sunday, July 17, 2022

1. Curtis Adams, 1981 Honda CB750F, Riverside, CA

2. David Crussell, 1978 Kawasaki Z1R, Sunol, CA

3. Kevin Rammer, 1982 Honda CB650SC, Newnan, GA

*Provisional pending appeal

About AHRMA:

The American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association (AHRMA) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated competing on fantastic classic and true vintage along with a wide range of modern motorcycles. With about 3,300 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.

AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Class Of 2022 Announced

David Swarts

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July 20, 2022

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AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Class Of 2022 Announced

Six to be inducted on Oct. 28 at the Violet Township Event Center in Pickerington, Ohio

PICKERINGTON, Ohio — The votes have been tallied, and the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame is proud to announce the six inductees to be honored during the 2022 AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony on Oct. 28 in Pickerington, Ohio.

The AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Class of 2022 is Kenny Coolbeth, Greg Hancock, Effie Hotchkiss, Sandy Kosman, Ben Spies and James Stewart.

“The Class of 2022 includes men and women who have excelled in competition, engineering, design, motorcycle adventure and more,” said AMA President and CEO Rob Dingman. “Some are champions in many of our premier racing disciplines — motocross, road racing, dirt track and speedway — while others excelled in limit-expanding adventures, or helping riders and teams reach their on-track potential. We are honored to recognize these motorcycling greats this Oct. 28 at the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame.”

The induction ceremony will include a cocktail reception at the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame followed by dinner and the induction ceremony at the nearby Violet Township Event Center on Friday evening, with the following day to include an Open House and Class of 2022 installation exhibit in the AMA Hall of Fame Museum on the AMA campus.

Tickets for the 2022 AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony are now available to the public at https://services.americanmotorcyclist.com/hofreg/.

For sponsorship opportunities, please contact AMA Business Development Manager Michael Kula at (949) 466-7833 or [email protected]

Hall of Fame inductees are selected from eight areas of influence: Ambassadors/Industry, Design/Engineering, Dirt Track, Leadership/Motorcycle Rights, Motocross/Supercross, Off-Road, Road Racing and Specialty Competition.

KENNY COOLBETH

Kenny Coolbeth began his national flat track racing career in 1994, winning the AMA Rookie of the Year award, and went on to win three AMA Grand National Championships in 2006, 2007 and 2008 while part of the factory Harley-Davidson team. Throughout his quarter-century career he compiled 27 AMA Grand National wins — sixth on the all-time list — and 108 AMA Grand National podiums.

GREG HANCOCK

Racer Greg Hancock has earned four Speedway World championships and eight AMA U.S. National Speedway championships in a career spanning four decades, with 2019 marking his 27th and last season competing in the Speedway World Championship series. While logging a record 218 Speedway Grand Prix appearances, he has finished in the top five in World Speedway competition 17 times, and finished in the top three eight times.

EFFIE HOTCHKISS

The first woman to complete a transcontinental motorcycle ride, Effie Hotchkiss began riding aboard small used motorcycles such as a single-cylinder Harley-Davidson. She purchased a brand-new 1915 Harley-Davidson 3-speed twin and left her job to travel by motorcycle to California. Effie’s mother, who worried about her daughter’s safety, joined her in a sidecar. Their journey began on May 2, 1915, and once they reached California, the two turned around and headed home in late August, finally completing the dream adventure in October.

SANDY KOSMAN

The late Sandy Kosman was a true pioneer in aftermarket chassis design and fabrication, an early producer of motorcycle-specific drag racing, flat track and road racing parts and products from the mid 1960s to the 2000s. Kosman found solutions to the increased demands upon competition motorcycles as horsepower increased over the years by creating chassis, brake and wheel systems that excelled in the most demanding racing applications. His chassis and parts designs in the drag racing world are perhaps his best-known contributions to motorcycle competition.

BEN SPIES

Ben Spies is considered one of the greatest American road racers in the history of the sport. Nicknamed “Elbowz” due to his signature riding style that showcased his always-protruding elbows, Spies’ five AMA National Championships include the 2008, 2007 and 2006 AMA Superbike titles, the 2007 AMA Superstock title, and the 2003 AMA Formula Xtreme title. He also competed successfully in World Superbike and MotoGP competition, scoring the 2009 World Superbike championship [and winning one MotoGP World Championship race].

JAMES STEWART

James “Bubba” Stewart was a dominant force in AMA Pro Motocross and AMA Supercross, winning two AMA Supercross national championships, three AMA Pro Motocross titles, two Motocross des Nations championships and seven AMA Amateur National Motocross Championships at Loretta Lynn’s. In 2008, Stewart won every race and every moto in the AMA Pro Motocross season, only the second motocross racer to ever notch a perfect season.

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.

Jones Wins Royal Enfield BTR Race At Port Royal Half-Mile

David Swarts

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July 20, 2022

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Jones Wins Royal Enfield BTR Race At Port Royal Half-Mile

BUILD. TRAIN. RACE. Flat Track Rolls On At Port Royal

Royal Enfield BTR and Moto Anatomy X bring Flat Track action to Port Royal Half-Mile in Pennsylvania

Milwaukee, WI (Wednesday, July 20, 2022) – The 2022 season of Royal Enfield’s groundbreaking Build. Train. Race. Flat Track program reached its halfway point at the Port Royal Half-Mile, where the full grid of 15 women returned to the track. Jaycee Jones took another victory with newcomer Zaria Martens hot on her tail and Jillian Deschenes rounding out the BTR Flat Track podium. Port Royal Speedway in Pennsylvania was also the site of Cameron Smith’s second and final fill-in ride with the Moto Anatomy X Powered by Royal Enfield team. Smith was looking to repeat his Production Twins podium performance from the Weedsport round, but would ultimately settle for a top-ten finish.

BUILD. TRAIN. RACE.

The previous BTR Flat Track round (Laconia Short Track, June 12) was short a few riders, namely round-one winner Jillian Deschenes and Nean Kiskela. Both racers unfortunately tested positive for Covid and were forced to stay home. For the Port Royal Half-Mile, however, all racers were healthy and ready to race. Deschenes, in particular, was ready to fight for another win against title rival Jaycee Jones and rookie star Zaria Martens.

The battle royal was somewhat spoiled after an incident in the Semi in which Deschenes and Jones both got sideways at the start. The contact resulted in Deschenes going down. Stephanie Pietz was able to slide through the wreckage, but Kiskela wasn’t as fortunate, getting tangled with Deschenes and sheering off a footpeg in the process.

All the ladies were able to grid up for the Main, with Deschenes relegated to the third row after a DNF in the Semi. It was an uphill battle for the BTR veteran, especially against Jones, who won at Port Royal in 2021, and was scorching fast all day. Jones’ quickest lap time in the Main was a 27.9, putting her just outside qualifying times for the Production Twins class.

In the main, Jones led from flag to flag, with 18-year-old Martens relentless in her pursuit. Martens would collect another podium finish ahead of Deschenes, who worked her way up from the third row to third place overall.

“I came into this weekend with a lot of nerves after having missed the last round due to Covid,” explained Jillian Deschenes. “After the incident off the start in the Semi I felt hungrier than ever for the podium. Starting from the third row in the Main, I didn’t feel the same pressure I usually do when starting on the front row, but I was motivated to work as close to the front as possible and was thrilled to come away with a third-place finish. That was one of the most fun BTR races I’ve had to date.”

The BTR women will reconvene at the Black Hills Speedway in Rapid City, South Dakota on August 6thfor the fourth full-grid round of the season.

Royal Enfield BUILD. TRAIN. RACE. Flat Track

Laconia Short Track Results

1. Jaycee Jones (#33)

2. Zaria Martens (#08)

3. Jillian Deschenes (#31)

4. Makenna Hiatt (#81)

5. Stephanie Pietz (#57)

6. Alex Bumpus McDonald (#2)

7. Erin Ferris (#909)

8. Malary Lee (#6)

9. Lanakila MacNaughton (#88)

10. Anna Serena (#800)

11. Kaiela Hobart (#46)

12. Nean Kiskela (#27)

13. Gabrielle Hughes (#327)

14. Nia Reese (#15)

15. Moriah Hummer (#7)

PRODUCTION TWINS

Cameron Smith had a breakthrough ride, and a near win at Weedsport Speedway in New York two weeks prior, and was looking to back up his performance at the New York Short Track with a win at the Port Royal Half-Mile. Although he ran into hard luck at his home race in Pennsylvania, Smith, who was filling in for the injured Johnny Lewis, kept plugging away and ultimately carded a ninth-place finish on the Royal Enfield Twins FT motorcycle.

Cameron Smith (34) at speed at the Port Royal Half-Mile. Photo courtesy Royal Enfield North America.

Smith suffered a broken chain earlier in the day and qualified 12th on the grid for the Production Twins Main. The Moto Anatomy X team, which was under the direction of Lewis, who made the transition from rider to Team Manager for the Port Royal round, made some geometry changes to the Twins FT for the Main, and while it took Smith a few laps to acclimate, he quickly began working his way through the pack. He was mid-pack and building momentum when a mechanical issue struck. Fortunately he was still able to take the checkered flag in ninth for the night.

After sitting out two rounds due to suffering a knee injury at the Laconia Short Track, Johnny Lewis is on the mend, and plans to make his return to racing the American Flat Track series at the Peoria TT, July 30.

Visit https://www.americanflattrack.com/results/default for detailed results.

American Cody Kitchens Wins Again, At Catalunya

David Swarts

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July 20, 2022

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American Cody Kitchens Wins Again, At Catalunya

CODY KITCHENS WINS AGAIN IN SPANISH YAMAHA R6 CUP AT CATALUNYA

Andifer Racing Team rider Cody Kitchens raced his Yamaha R6 to a well-earned victory at
Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya on July 17th at round three of the Yamaha R6 Cup in the
Rookies division.

At another track that Cody had never been to before, he used the three practice sessions on Friday and two qualifying sessions on Saturday to learn the nuances of the Grand Prix circuit, getting faster with each session. He qualified on the inside of the fifth row in the 34-rider field.

A very good start put him into Turn One with the leaders, but he was hemmed in on the inside and had to wait until the end of the first lap to start passing other riders. Cody gained six positions over the next nine laps, but the race was cut short by a red flag with two laps remaining. Cody finished ninth overall and first in the Rookies category.

“I got a really good start, which helped me get up with the faster guys who have been racing at Catalunya for years,” said Cody. “I passed a rider or two each lap, and my times kept coming down. The bike worked well the faster I went.”

Cody continues to lead the points in the Rookies division of the 2022 Yamaha R6 Cup
(www.challengeyamaha.com).

Cody will be heading back to Texas for the summer break in the next week. Cody’s next event of the 2022 Yamaha R6 Cup series is at the Circuit Ricardo Tormo (Valencia) on September 9-11, 2022.

For the 2022 season, Cody Kitchens is proud to be sponsored by MT Helmets, Three
Chihuahua Racing (www.threechihuahuaracing.com) and Pakosta37 Riders Factory.

For more information, visit Cody on Facebook at www.facebook.com/codykitchensracing and on Instagram at codykitchens25.

MRA: Applegate, Grant Win Again At High Plains Raceway

David Swarts

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July 20, 2022

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MRA: Applegate, Grant Win Again At High Plains Raceway

The Motorcycle Roadracing Association (MRA) was excited to hold its fourth race round of the season this last weekend [July 16-17] at club-affiliated High Plains Raceway (HPR) located in Deer Trail, CO. The Full Course configuration was on offer for the competitors of this event and the annual 4-hour Endurance event was held. It is the one round of the year when the MRA makes the Endurance races the premier event of the day.

The weather could be described in a single word. That word is hot, with temperatures in the high 90’s at HPR for the entire weekend and the riders facing blistering heat and sun as well as the typical Colorado style storm fronts blowing through in the late afternoon. With the history of this event, the conditions were anticipated, and the MRA declares the 4-hour Endurance a “flag to flag” race from the start. The competitors not only had to contend with each other and the clock, but had to persevere through several track drenching cloud bursts as well!

Run on Saturday afternoon, the basic rules of this Endurance race were simple in their way: Complete the most laps in four hours to win. All small specific rules and fiddly protocols aside, this race can be accomplished in three ways. First by a solo rider in the ‘Titanium Butt’ class. Completed as a team of up to four riders switching out on one bike in the ‘True Endurance’ class. As well completed as a team of up to four riders and four bikes, where the transponder must be handed off like a relay baton in what is known as the ‘Pony Express’ class. All three classes share the track and battle it out for four hours straight.

Stephen Townsend, MRA Alumni and ‘Veteran Club White Plate’, who came home to Colorado to visit specifically for the event, took the honorable mention as he completed 104 laps, and won this year’s “Titanium Butt” class competition. Just as it sounds, 104 laps in four hours, all by himself. With a total of 106 laps, team ‘MotherTruckers’ won the ‘True Endurance’ class, and with a total of 109 laps team ‘Wounded Knees’ won the ‘Pony Express’ class. (Participants and times/laps listed out in detail below.)

The real draw of this event was the sportsmanship that came out of the woodwork late in the race day. There were several instances of rivals and class competitors cheering each other on, helping to do minor fixes and maintenance on each other’s bikes, and giving each other water and fuel. Even going so far as to check in on each other to make sure that ‘sway’ or ‘wobble’ wasn’t heat exhaustion. Of particular note, one full motor swap was completed on a vintage R6, right there in the paddock under a pop-up tent. The clubmen were even able to get the bike started for a short while, before the starter failed again. Fortunately for some and unfortunately for others, a little luck does tend to play its part in this event.

Lastly about the Endurance, many examples of on-track of thumbs ups and waves were noted, and the giving of a little extra space was common. The MRA endurance round is,and fully becomes toward the end of the clock what club racing is all about. People passionate about motorcycles racing and riding their hearts out for their friends, teams, clubs and hometowns! This reporter personally witnessed one of the fastest racers on track give space too and ride around the outside of one of slowest riders around Turn 8 very late in the race. Turn 8 is an extremely tight left hairpin at HPR. The faster rider slowed, made sure the other could see, and then gave a huge thumbs up for the nice clean predictable line as they rolled toward Turn 9. Nods were returned and if a helmet could smile, it did. Competitive sportsmanship at its finest.

Sunday dawned just as bright and hot as the day before. What rain came down overnight simply added humidity, with no relief for the racers. Race of the Rockies GTO & GTU (RORO & RORU) were again in the forefront of the participants mind. Despite an early red flag that saw one bike down into Turn One (as well as one ride up and OK) the race got off to its usual fast and fierce start. In the RORO class Mike Applegate continued his winning ways and pulled off another extremely strong and consistent race to see the checkered flag first. James Wilkerson saw the fastest lap of the race with a 1:48.6 but was unable to use that speed consistently enough to reel in Applegate. Joseph Resta secured the final step of the podium.

In the RORU class, Liam Grant, who started near the very back of the grid, was able to battle his way through most of the grid and was showing wheel to many of the 1000cc machines. Mr. Grant not only took first in the class, but third overall in the race. A truly impressive ride, on an ‘under powered’ machine. He was rumored to have been on one of his MotoAmerica-spec middleweight bikes, but when asked, he simply offered a friendly, if sly, smile and said, “Super happy to be here and support the MRA for this. I’m here to put in the work for my team, and I ride what they give me.” He would be coaxed no further on the topic, at least by this reporter. Congratulations Liam! Ken Yee and Jared Dear also battled through a handful of bigger bikes to take 5th and 6th overall, as well as 2nd and 3rd in their class respectively. Congratulations to all the ROR competitors!
Special thanks and nods to CAMA, the HPR facility/staff and the MRA safety team/trackside operations staff. Thanks to all of those that lent a hand in one fashion or another during the event. Thanks to all that participated in the Pot Luck and awards ceremony for the Endurance that ran late into the evening.

Dedicated to family friendly and close, competitive racing, the MRA thanks everyone involved for their support and patronage this last weekend, and hopes to see everyone again for Round Five coming August 6-7 at Pueblo Motorsports Park.

Rnd 4 results

Canadian Superbike: Close Championship Heading To “Shubie” (Includes Video)

David Swarts

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July 20, 2022

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Canadian Superbike: Close Championship Heading To “Shubie” (Includes Video)

CSBK returns to east coast as Young, Dumas look for title edge

Toronto, ON – The penultimate round of the Canadian Superbike Championship will return to the east coast for the first time in three years this weekend, as Pro Superbike rivals Ben Young and Alex Dumas look to break their championship stalemate at Atlantic Motorsport Park, presented by Pro Cycle, Kawasaki, and Arai.

Young will carry a one-point advantage into the fifth and sixth races of the feature class season in AMP, before embarking on a season-ending tripleheader in August, but that lead will mean little to him after dropping the last two races to Dumas in Calabogie.

However, Young will get a bit of a morale boost when he returns to Shubenacadie, NS, as the tight eleven-turn, 2.5 km circuit holds a special place in his career – and remains the site of one of the greatest comebacks in CSBK history.

Locked in a fierce title battle with Jordan Szoke in 2019, it was at AMP where Young and Szoke collided early, with the Van Dolder’s Home Team BMW rider recovering from 10th to score a decisive victory after a last lap, last corner pass.

Compare that to the inexperience of Dumas, who made his east coast debut at the SARL regional just this weekend, and it would be easy to anoint Young the championship leader entering CTMP next month. However, if his 19-year-old counterpart has shown us anything in his brief CSBK career, it’s that he shouldn’t be doubted.

Dumas has finished on the podium in every single race since returning north of the border, and the defending champion shocked many when he turned up to Grand Bend in round one – another track he had yet to race at – and scored a pair of second-place finishes aboard his Liqui Moly/Fast School Suzuki.

He will surely be in for a tougher challenge at ‘Shubie,’ a track known for being one of the most physically demanding in North America, but the punishing layout could also work to Dumas’ advantage as he hunts down the more experienced Young.

Their qualifying results will be crucial to their weekend performances as they aim for track position on the run down to turn two, but it will also play a mighty role in their battle for the BS Battery Pole Position Award. Young holds a two-point advantage after a pair of second-place grid slots, but pole in Calabogie helped Dumas close the gap with just two more chances remaining.

Not to be discounted atop the feature class is the other frontrunning Suzuki of Trevor Daley, who led majority of that famed race in 2019 before losing out to Young, the closest Daley has ever come to his first Pro Superbike victory.

The OneSpeed/Pro Cycle rider has been erratic at times in 2022, but the pace has remained as strong as ever with a pair of podiums on the season, and another fast start coupled with the high-stakes battle between Young and Dumas could be a perfect recipe for Daley to finally capture his elusive debut victory.

Inexperience may be the theme further down the midfield, as a number of names either head to AMP for the first time or under much different circumstances. Sebastian Tremblay will be one of the latter, having competed on the east coast on numerous occasions but primarily in the Liqui Moly Pro Sport Bike class.

Now fully focused on his Superbike program, Tremblay will hope to keep his momentum going after scoring a brilliant podium in round two, a result that propelled the Turcotte Performance Kawasaki rider to fourth in the championship overall.

One of the more experienced riders at AMP will also be looking to build on some recent form, as Michael Leon returns to one of his more successful tracks after a strong bounce-back weekend in Calabogie.

The Royal Distributing BMW rider finished fourth there in 2018 after qualifying on the front row, and has a few more top-five finishes to his name in the Superbike class, as he looks to play a key role for BMW as they lead the Constructors Championship.

Fellow BMW-mounted rider Samuel Guerin will also be looking to keep his strong form intact, though he will be making his first ever appearance at AMP and will be sorely lacking in experience compared to his championship rivals.

The EFC Group rider and former championship runner-up has been solid in all four races thus far but has yet to return to the podium, and he may have to wait at least one more round to do so as he hopes to cling on to fifth in the overall standings.

One opportunity for movement in the standings may come in the Brooklin Cycle Racing Pro Rookie of the Year fight, as an unfortunate turn of events has opened up a massive prospect for Ryan Taylor.

The Taylor Racing Ducati rider initially looked to be in tough against Trevor Dion after Dion became the breakout star of round one, but the LDS Consultants BMW rider has since decided to focus on his title lead in the Liqui Moly Pro Sport Bike class.

As such, Taylor has now dropped the gap down to just ten points in the fight for top Rookie honours, and another pair of points finishes could be enough to give him an edge in the award battle heading to CTMP.

The long-awaited return to AMP will officially kick off with a CSBK Event Party on Thursday night, hosted at Pro Cycle in Dartmouth, NS. The major powersports dealer has been Atlantic Canada’s premier source of fun since 1983, and continues to be a devoted partner of the CSBK series, providing logistical and technical support to the nation’s premier racing championship.

The full schedule for the four-day weekend event can be found on the series’ official website at csbk.ca.

British Superbike: Ray Leads Championship Heading To Brands Hatch

July 21, 2022

Bradley Ray (28) in action at Oulton Park. Photo courtesy MSVR.