MotoGP: Quartararo Says He Knows Where He Can Improve

David Swarts

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February 4, 2022

MotoGP: Quartararo Says He Knows Where He Can Improve

MONSTER ENERGY YAMAHA MOTOGP READY FOR 2022 TITLE QUEST

Sepang (Malaysia), 4th February 2022

Today, the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP team held their Online Team Presentation to officially open their 2022 campaign. Spearheaded by two young and competitive riders, Fabio Quartararo and Franco Morbidelli, the team is eager for the 2022 MotoGP World Championship kick-off in Qatar in March.

To set the tone for the upcoming MotoGP season, newly-appointed General Manager Motorsports Development Division of Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. Takahiro Sumi, Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Team Principal & Yamaha Motor Racing Managing Director Lin Jarvis, Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Team Director Massimo Meregalli, Factory Yamaha riders Fabio Quartararo and Franco Morbidelli, and Monster Energy‘s Senior Vice President of Sports Marketing Mitch Covington shared their thoughts on the team‘s past successes as well as its 2022 potential.

The colour scheme of the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP bikes remains the same for 2022, with the team‘s YZR-M1, the pit box, and the riders‘ leathers sporting a ’Monster Energy black‘ to ’Yamaha Factory Racing blue‘ gradient. The perfect blend between Yamaha‘s aesthetic and Monster Energy‘s instantly recognisable claw branding is also represented in the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP team logo and on the team uniforms.

Yamaha has a long-term global alliance with the team‘s title sponsor, Monster Energy Company, based on their mutual passion for racing. A multiple-year title sponsorship agreement with the Yamaha Factory Racing MotoGP Team was signed in the summer of 2018 and came naturally, as Monster Energy Company sponsors multiple Yamaha teams (among them the Yamaha Factory Racing MotoGP team since 2013) and riders (including Quartararo and Morbidelli) in various racing classes.

Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP is also pleased to announce that throughout the 2022 racing season the bike will continue to feature the slogans of Thai Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd., Yamaha Motor Philippines, and PT Yamaha Indonesia Motor Manufacturing, starting from the first two IRTA Tests held from 5-6 February in Sepang, Malaysia and from 11-13 February in Mandalika, Indonesia.

The team also welcomes with open arms their new Official Sponsors in 2022, including:

– MSI, the most trusted name in gaming and eSports;

– Debem, a cutting-edge company specialized in designing and producing industrial pumps for highly demanding environments;

– Tanida, a global leader company in sand casting;

– Pont Grup, a company specialized in providing insurance broker services to individuals, with more than 25 years of experience;

– Capit, leader in the production of professional tyre warmers since 1996;

– Axalta, a global coating company focused on providing customers with innovative colourful and sustainable solutions. Their logos will be gracing the team assets.

Moreover, the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP team is delighted to confirm the continuation of its relationship with numerous Official Sponsors and Official Partners, including:

OFFICIAL SPONSORS

– Monster Energy Company

– Eneos

– Blue Core

– Yamalube

– Akrapovic

– Yamaha Indonesia Motor Manufacturing/Semakin Di Depan

– Yamaha Motor Philippines/MIO

– MSI

– Thailand Yamaha Motor/Beyond the Limits

– Oakley

– Alpinestars

– VR46

– bLU cRU

– Gilles Tooling

– RCB

– Furukawa Electrics

– Debem

– Tanida

– DID

– NGK Spark Plugs

– BMC Air Filters

– Pont Grup

– Capit

– 2D

– BETA Tools

– Axalta

– Yamaha Corporation (Yamaha Music)

– Michelin

OFFICIAL PARTNERS

– Alpinestars

– Siemens-LMS

– BLS

– BETA Tools

– GOM

– RCM

– Toyota Material Handling

– 3M Peltor

– ParkingGO

– Flex

– Synlab

– Airbank

HOSPITALITY PARTNERS

– Mokador

– Ca’ dei Frati

– Pastificio Artigiano Fabbri

– Macelleria Belli

– Azienda Olearia del Chianti

For 2022, the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP team continue their alliance with VR46 Racing Apparel. They will manufacture the official teamwear, all provided with a prominent VR46 Racing Apparel logo. Identical official teamwear products will be on sale to Yamaha fans throughout the global dealer network and at racetrack merchandise sales points.

Additionally, eagle-eyed fans will spot the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP staff and riders don new facemasks supplied by BLS. The team is delighted to have them as a new Official Partner, as the team continuously strives to enhance its safety measures to keep riders and staff safe and healthy throughout the whole championship season amidst the ongoing global pandemic.

Furthermore, the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP team continue to support Yamaha‘s bLU cRU programme, encouraging a younger generation of on-road riders to follow their dream to become the next motorcycle racing star. Quartararo and Morbidelli are ambassadors of the programme and will serve as role models for all Yamaha‘s young talents.

With the upcoming season shaping up nicely, currently projected to count 21 GP rounds, Yamaha Factory Racing MotoGP Test Team rider Cal Crutchlow will be joining Quartararo and Morbidelli at the Official MotoGP Sepang Test, as Yamaha is putting all hands on deck to start their 2022 campaign off on the right foot.

TAKAHIRO SUMI

GM, MOTORSPORTS DEVELOPMENT DIV., YAMAHA MOTOR CO., LTD

First of all, I want to say ’Thank you for your support‘ to all Yamaha MotoGP fans around the world. In 2021, YMC‘s Motorsports Development Division worked closely together with the riders and teams to put in Yamaha‘s bid for the MotoGP World Title. It resulted in our first Premier Class Trophy since 2015, a great achievement! We dedicated the win to our loyal supporters. We are starting this new season with the mindset of a challenger and we want to make our fans proud of us again. We have an exciting rider line-up in Fabio Quartararo and Franco Morbidelli in the Factory Team and the vastly-experienced Andrea Dovizioso and new talent Darryn Binder in the WithU Yamaha RNF MotoGP team, so we are confident that this year our fans will again have a lot of exciting racing to look forward to.

LIN JARVIS

MANAGING DIRECTOR, YAMAHA MOTOR RACING

Last year‘s title victory was the best way to give back something special to Monster Energy Company to express our thanks for their continuous support and faith in our team. This year, we are entering our tenth year with Monster Energy as our sponsor and our fourth season with them as our title sponsor. They are fully immersed in and dedicated to motorsports and our strong global alliance makes our brands instantly connected. The 2021 Title win with Monster Energy as title sponsor was the absolute highlight of our successful partnership so far. The same goes for our many other official team sponsors, partners, and suppliers. Their commitment and love for MotoGP makes it possible for us to keep competing at the top-tier of motorcycle racing for what will be the third MotoGP season during this ongoing global pandemic. Our goals this year are to challenge to win the Rider title again and to have both riders strong all year to try to win the Constructor and Team titles even if we know it will be tough in the face of very stiff competition from all the other factories. With Fabio and Franky steering our M1s supported by our top-class team and engineers in Japan & Europe we are excited to start testing to prepare for the 2022 MotoGP season.

MASSIMO MEREGALLI

TEAM DIRECTOR

Let me start by saying that we are, of course, very happy to have won the 2021 World Championship with Fabio last year. But being the reigning World Champion comes with a bit of added pressure. We are highly aware that winning a championship one time is relatively easy compared to trying to win it two times in a row. So, the heat is on! We are all starting from zero again, and we have a long season ahead of us with 21 GPs on the calendar. We can‘t afford to dwell too much on the past: we need to focus on the task ahead and move forward if we want to finish first again. The team‘s morale is great, and the atmosphere has never been better. The new crew members that joined us last year have gelled incredibly well with the other staff. As Team Director I couldn‘t ask for a better crew to start this next title quest with. We are also very lucky to have such a strong rider line-up. Both Fabio and Franco are undisputed talents, and their riding suits our bike too. One of them will be looking to confirm his dominance in the MotoGP field, while the other is eager to showcase his full potential now that he is getting closer to a full recovery from his injury, so we are ready to fight.

FABIO QUARTARARO

The winter break was quite long, but if I‘m honest I feel like I kept busy the whole time. There were many events for me to attend, and of course training continued as normal – so all in all it was quite busy, but in a good way. I‘m excited to begin the new season and start riding and improving. We got the title last year, and that‘s great. Nobody can ever take that away from me, but as of the first day of riding, none of that matters anymore. Last year‘s title win is behind us now, we must focus on this year‘s championship. Last year we barely did any pre-season testing due to the pandemic. This year I already have a year of experience with the Factory Team, so we know how to work well together. We know our strengths and where we can improve, so that will help during the tests in Sepang and Mandalika.

FRANCO MORBIDELLI

Last year was all about showing mental strength whilst working on improving my physical strength. It was not easy to come back after the surgery on my knee, but the work that I did last year will be beneficial for me at the start of this season. We already have some data to work with, and I‘m already familiar with the bike and the team. I have always had a good feeling on the Yamaha, but this M1 is so smooth. I can‘t wait to start riding the 2022 bike now that my knee is in a better condition. I‘m very interested to see how our progress will continue. I also look forward to seeing the whole team again at the tests. The atmosphere in the team was really nice last year, so let’s see what steps we can make during winter testing.

American Flat Track: Mission Foods Expands Partnership With Series

David Swarts

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February 4, 2022

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American Flat Track: Mission Foods Expands Partnership With Series

Progressive AFT Announces Multi-Faceted 2022 Partnership with Mission Foods

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – Progressive American Flat Track is thrilled to announce a wide-ranging and comprehensive partnership with Mission Foods® for the 2022 season. Among several other key sponsorship agreements, Mission Foods returns as title sponsor of the premier Mission® SuperTwins class including the Mission 2Fast2Tasty Challenge, as well as the Official Tortilla, Chip, and Salsa of Progressive AFT.

Mission Foods – the nation’s top manufacturer of tortillas, tortilla chips, flatbreads and other baked products – made a splashy series’ debut in 2021 and will only increase its presence in 2022. In addition to the above-mentioned announcements, Mission Foods will also be the entitlement partner for nearly half of the races on the ‘22 slate – the Mission Volusia Half Mile I, II, & III, the Mission Texas Half-Mile, the Mission Red Mile I & II, the Mission New York Short Track, and the Mission Port Royal Half-Mile – as well as the season-ending banquet.

“We are excited to expand our commitment to the Progressive American Flat Track Series and all its supporters and fans,” said Juan Gonzalez, Mission Foods Chief Executive Officer. “It’s an honor for Mission to partner with America’s Original Extreme Sport and to support the world’s best motorcycle racers.”

Mission Foods will have a significant presence at events via fan facing activations, and the Mission Paddock Hospitality, stocked with Mission products and other provisions for teams, partners and stakeholders, a brand-new Mission Tent, and other race-day branding.

Mission Foods will also help raise awareness of Progressive AFT to potential new fans away from the track through in-store displays featuring Mission-branded athletes, branding at in-market motorcycle dealerships via motorcycle inflatables promoting upcoming events, and even on the road via a Mission vehicle wrap of one of the series’ trailers.

“Mission Foods is a tremendous partner and their tortillas, chips and salsas fuel the riders and teams that put on such incredible racing every weekend,” said Gene Crouch, COO of Progressive American Flat Track. “The promotional energy that they bring to the sport is incredible and we appreciate their expanded support.”

It was previously announced that Mission Foods will also serve as the title sponsor of the Mission Production Twins presented by Vance & Hines class in 2022, as well as the innovative Mission Production Twins Challenge, which will add extra excitement in 2022 and help set the stage for the twin-cylinder class merger in 2023.

Progressive AFT will kick off the 2022 season with a Daytona Bike Week doubleheader on Thursday, March 10 and Friday, March 11 at Volusia Speedway Park. To purchase tickets to events or to learn more about America’s Original Extreme Sport, please visit https://www.americanflattrack.com.

To score the latest gear for the Progressive American Flat Track fan, visit the official merchandise store at https://store.americanflattrack.com.

Moto2: Italtrans Racing Team Introduced In Italy

David Swarts

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February 3, 2022

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Moto2: Italtrans Racing Team Introduced In Italy

Italtrans Racing Team 2022 line-up presented

Commitment and passion are renewed: with the presentation of the new line-up the 2022 season of Italtrans Racing Team officially begins.

An adventure that has been going on for 13 years, making Italtrans Racing Team among the best teams of Moto2 class with its history and successes.

The Facebook and Instagram live broadcast, conducted by journalist Sandro Donato Grosso, unveiled the new bikes of Lorenzo Dalla Porta and Joe Roberts.

At his third season with Italtrans, the Tuscan rider is ready to show his talent, redeeming himself from an unlucky 2021. In fact, after a first growing part with several races in the points and in the top ten, Dalla Porta unfortunately stopped due to an injury to his left shoulder and underwent surgery. It was a tough decision, made in order to allow a long period of rehabilitation and get ready for the new 2022 season in the best shape.

After an up-and-down 2021, Roberts is preparing to race his second season with Italtrans Racing Team, aware of last year’s mistakes and ready to confirm his potential. With the experience gained, the rider from Malibu will continue his growth with the aim of confirming himself among the best Moto2 riders.

Next week the team will be on track at Valencia for two days of private testing and then at Portimao for official IRTA testing before the GP of Qatar.

Lorenzo Dalla Porta #19:

“The new livery is beautiful and eye-catching: a big step forward has been made with the graphics. We are all very motivated for this 2022: we will show our potential and satisfaction will come. I feel good: I’ve been working all winter long on my shoulder, with physiotherapy and specific training. I’m lacking a bit of strength but I’m continuing to work and I’ll arrive in Qatar ready. We’re motivated and ready to do well”.

Joe Roberts #16:

“I’m really excited for the new season. I feel motivated and I can’t wait to get on track for the first tests next week. It was great to be able to attend the presentation and see the team after the winter break. The motivation is high and the atmosphere good: I’m confident we can have a good season”.

Franco Brugnara, Lorenzo Dalla Porta’s Crew Chief:

“This will be an important season for Lorenzo. In the last two years he didn’t start in the best way, but he has had time to recover from his shoulder operation. We have made great efforts to have a higher technical level. I hope this will be the year of his confirmation”.

Giovanni Sandi, Joe Roberts’ Crew Chief:

“After a tough 2021 we took advantage of the break to work and we are ready for this new season with great motivation. There are several technical changes and we are determined to do well. Joe learnt important lessons from last year and he will show his full potential. The team is ready for a season full of expectations”.

Video: Josh Herrin Talks About His Panigale V2 Test At Daytona

David Swarts

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February 3, 2022

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Video: Josh Herrin Talks About His Panigale V2 Test At Daytona

In this video (recorded while riding on public roads), Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati New York’s Josh Herrin talks about trying out his new 955cc Panigale V2 MotoAmerica Supersport racebike during an AHRMA race event at Daytona International Speedway in January.

Husqvarna Reveals Its 2022 Vitpilen And Svartpilen Range

David Swarts

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February 3, 2022

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Husqvarna Reveals Its 2022 Vitpilen And Svartpilen Range

STREET MOTORCYCLES DESIGNED AND BUILT TO CONQUER EVERY URBAN ENVIRONMENT GET A FRESH DESIGN TO MARK A NEW YEAR

Husqvarna Motorcycles is pleased to announce the availability of the 2022 Vitpilen and Svartpilen range – exciting street models that combine ground-breaking, instantly-recognizable design with class-leading features and technology. Each of the dynamic single-cylinder trio – the Svartpilen 125, Svartpilen 401 and Vitpilen 401 – boasts new graphics for 2022.

A 2022-model Husqvarna Svartpilen 125. Photo courtesy Husqvarna Motorcycles.

The Svartpilen 125 combines intelligent design with high-end componentry. Like its larger capacity stablemates, the motorcycle features WP suspension, ByBre brakes and Bosch ABS. The fuel-injected 125cc single-cylinder engine is EURO 5-compliant and packaged in a light, compact chassis for the optimum power-to-weight ratio, making it a perfect performer in the urban environment and beyond. Light, compact and agile as well as A1 license-compliant, the Svartpilen 125 is perfect for new or younger riders looking to sharpen their skills and build confidence in style.

A 2022-model Husqvarna Svartpilen 401. Photo courtesy Husqvarna Motorcycles.

Offering rugged styling in a progressive package, the Svartpilen 401 delivers a dynamic riding experience in the urban environment and out of town. The strong and tractable 373cc, 44 hp single-cylinder EURO 5-compliant engine, streel trellis frame, low weight and high-performance WP APEX suspension combine to make a machine that is capable and manageable. ByBre brakes and Bosch ABS offer powerful, controlled stopping while the Easy Shift allows for clutchless gear changes. Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR tires add to its rugged looks and offer exceptional grip on a wide variety of terrain.

A 2022-model Husqvarna Vitpilen 401. Photo courtesy Husqvarna Motorcycles.

The Vitpilen 401 shares the Svartpilen 401’s 373cc, 44 hp single-cylinder EURO 5-compliant engine, giving it the same wide-ranging ability both in and out of town. A dynamic chassis, easy ergonomics and low weight make for an engaging ride while the WP APEX suspension guarantee instant rider feedback. The Vitpilen 401 also benefits from ByBre brakes and Bosch ABS for outstanding stopping power, as well as Easy Shift for clutchless gear changes. With its smart, striking finish and design, the Vitpilen 401 shows its true colors for 2022.

The new graphics of the Vitpilen and Svartpilen models enhance their stunning appearance and reflect the progressive mix of modern thinking and classic design informed by the brand’s Swedish heritage.

Technical highlights:

Striking new graphics highlight the progressive design

EURO 5 emission compliant

High-strength steel trellis frame

Reliable and efficient single-cylinder engine

State-of-the-art Easy Shift function and ride-by-wire throttle (Vitpilen 401 and Svartpilen 401)

Premium build quality and finish

LED headlight and taillight

Lightweight and nimble handling

High-quality components and technology fitted standard

Providing additional performance options, Husqvarna Motorcycles offers the Technical Accessories range – a complete collection of thoughtfully designed, high-quality components to further improve performance and increase durability. In addition, the Functional Street Apparel collection allows riders to create a personalized look with protective items that assure the highest levels of safety and comfort.

The 2022 Vitpilen and Svartpilen range is available now at authorized Husqvarna Motorcycles dealers. Availability may differ from country to country. For all details on pricing and availability, please refer to your national Husqvarna Motorcycles subsidiary or importer.

MotoAmerica: Parts Unlimited Signs Three-Year Sponsorship Deal

David Swarts

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February 2, 2022

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MotoAmerica: Parts Unlimited Signs Three-Year Sponsorship Deal

Long-Time MotoAmerica Partner Parts Unlimited Onboard Again For 2022

Global Powersports Distributor Parts Unlimited Signs Three-Year Agreement

IRVINE, CA (February 2, 2022) – MotoAmerica, North America’s premier road racing series, is proud to announce that global powersports distributor Parts Unlimited, one of the series’ longest-serving sponsors, has signed a new three-year agreement to be an official partner of the 2022 Auto Parts 4 Less MotoAmerica Championship.

“Parts Unlimited has been with MotoAmerica since the beginning and they bring a lot to our paddock,” said Lance Bryson, MotoAmerica’s Director of Sponsorship. “Parts Unlimited is a racing company so it’s a natural fit for MotoAmerica. The coming season promises to be a thriller in all our classes and we’re happy to have Parts Unlimited on board with us again.”

Parts Unlimited is the world’s largest distributor of aftermarket accessories in the powersports industry and is owned by LeMans Corporation, which is headquartered in Janesville, Wisconsin. Parts Unlimited sells to over 12,000 dealerships worldwide and continues to expand its market penetration with its sister companies, Parts Canada, Parts Europe and Drag Specialties.

“We’re pleased to be able to continue our partnership with MotoAmerica,” said Hylton Beattie, Parts Unlimited’s Global Motorsports Director. “We like what MotoAmerica has been able to achieve with its series and it only gets better every season. Road racing is important to us and our customers so working with MotoAmerica is always at the top of our list. The coming season looks like it will be the best yet and we can’t wait to get out there and see the racing and our customers at the races.”

The MotoAmerica season begins at Daytona International Speedway, on March 10-12 with the Daytona 200, the opening rounds of the Mission King Of The Baggers Championship, the MotoAmerica Twins Cup Series, and the Roland Sands Design Super Hooligans.

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.

MotoAmerica: Disrupt Racing Confirms Gillim In Superbike & Stock 1000

David Swarts

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February 2, 2022

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MotoAmerica: Disrupt Racing Confirms Gillim In Superbike & Stock 1000

Disrupt Racing plans to field Hayden Gillim on an Infinity Fall Protection-sponsored Suzuki GSX-R1000 in MotoAmerica Superbike and Stock 1000 and Carl Soltisz on a Suzuki GSX-R600 in MotoAmerica Supersport in 2022. Both men will start their seasons by riding Suzuki GSX-R600s in the Daytona 200.

“We are excited to officially announce that Hayden Gillim will be coming back to the paddock full time for the 2022 MotoAmerica season,” read a statement on Disrupt Racing’s Facebook page. “Hayden Gillim will be racing this season as a Premier Superbike rider. In addition, Hayden will also be competing as a Stock 1000 season competitor.”

“We are stoked to welcome back fan favorite Carl Soltisz, a.k.a. Super Carl, a.k.a. Carlos Superior, to the www.Infinityfallprotection.com Disrupt Racing team for the 2022 season,” read a separate announcement on the Disrupt Racing Facebook page. “Carl had an amazing rookie season last year and is looking very strong to move forward this season on board his Suzuki GSX-R Supersport machine.”

Carl Soltisz (60). Photo courtesy Disrupt Racing.

Gillim did only one MotoAmerica Stock 1000 race with Disrupt Racing in 2021, and in spite of missing practice on Friday, he finished third in the race at Pittsburgh International Race Complex.

Soltisz, meanwhile, placed ninth in the 2021 MotoAmerica Supersport Championship with a best race result of seventh at Brainerd International Raceway and 12 top-10 finishes in 18 races.

Gillim competed in all three rounds of the 2021 MotoAmerica King Of The Baggers (KOTB) Championship on a Vance & Hines Harley-Davidson and finished third in that Championship, but on February 1, Gillim told Roadracingworld.com he would not be racing in KOTB in 2022.

AMA Pro Racing Rebrands American Hillclimb Series

David Swarts

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February 2, 2022

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AMA Pro Racing Rebrands American Hillclimb Series

AMA Pro Racing Announces Rebrand of American Hillclimb Series

DAYTONA BEACH Fla. – AMA Pro Racing is excited to announce the official rebranding of the all-new American Hillclimb series – formerly known as AMA Pro Hillclimb. The rebranding and associated logo redesign come on the heels of one of the series’ most successful seasons to date and the recent announcement of an expanded 2022 schedule.

American Hillclimb is among the most historic motorcycle racing championships globally, with its origins tracing back more than a century. Its direct lineage goes back even prior to the formation of the AMA, including the Motorcycle & Allied Trades Association National Hillclimb Championships that ranked as among the most popular two-wheeled racing events of its day.

That proud history is still front and center to the present, most visibly with the inclusion of the 102nd anniversary of the Muskegon Motorcycle Club’s annual Spring Run on the ‘22 slate.

American Hillclimb retains the exact same qualities that originally made it so popular – breath-taking acceleration, heart-pounding drama, and spectator-friendly immediacy. The rebranding comes as the series enters a new era of growth with tremendous potential to tap into new markets and audiences.

Stay tuned for information regarding American Hillclimb’s plans for enhanced livestreaming of its events this season.

The 2022 American Hillclimb schedule will open on June 5 with the White Rose I, hosted by the White Rose Motorcycle Club in Jefferson, Pennsylvania.

For tickets, please contact each individual club or event.

For information about the series visit www.amaprohillclimb.com

For inquiries, please contact Rob Redmann at [email protected].

MotoGP: Vinales Quickest As Shakedown Test Ends At Sepang

David Swarts

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February 2, 2022

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FIM MotoGP World Championship

Shakedown Test

February 2, 2022

Unofficial Day Three Lap Times (all on Michelin tires):

Maverick Vinales, Spain (Aprilia), 1:58.942
Aleix Espargaro, Spain (Aprilia), 1:59.086
Raul Fernandez, Spain (KTM), 1:59.468
Marco Bezzecchi, Italy (Ducati), 1:59.711
Michele Pirro, Italy (Ducati), 1:59.805*
Remy Gardner, Australia (KTM), 2:00.046
Stefan Bradl, Germany (Honda), 2:00.449*
Sylvain Guintoli, France (Suzuki), 2:00.491*
Darryn Binder, South Africa (Yamaha), 2:00.928
Mika Kallio, Finland (KTM), 2:01.074*
Cal Crutchlow, UK (Yamaha), 2:01.819*
Kohta Nozane, Japan (Yamaha), 2:02.257*
Takuya Tsuda, Japan (Suzuki), 2:02.661*
Dani Pedrosa, Spain (KTM), no time recorded*

*=test rider

Rookie Raul Fernandez (25). Photo courtesy Dorna.

Marco Bezzecchi (72). Photo courtesy Dorna.

Test rider Michele Pirro (43) made sure Jack Miller's Ducati was ready to go for the official test later this week. Photo courtesy of Dorna. — Test rider Michele Pirro (43) made sure Jack Miller’s Ducati was ready to go for the official test later this week. Recovered from COVID-19, Miller was at the track Wednesday but did not ride during the shakedown test. Photo courtesy of Dorna.

Remy Gardner (87). Photo courtesy Dorna.

Test rider Stefan Bradl on Honda's latest RC213V. Photo courtesy Dorna. — Test rider Stefan Bradl on Honda’s new RC213V. Photo courtesy Dorna.

Suzuki test rider Sylvain Guintoli (50). Photo courtesy Dorna.

Darryn Binder (40). Photo courtesy Dorna.

KTM test rider Mika Kallio (82). Photo courtesy Dorna.

Yamaha test rider Cal Crutchlow (T1) got into the action on Wednesday. Photo courtesy Dorna.

Suzuki test rider Takuya Tsuda (85). Photo courtesy Dorna.

Once again, KTM test rider Dani Pedrosa (26) rode on Day Three, and once again, his name did not appear on the timing monitors. Photo courtesy Dorna.

More, from a press release issued by Mooney VR46 Racing Team:

POSITIVE THREE DAYS OF TESTING FOR MARCO BEZZECCHI AT SEPANG

The rider of the Mooney VR46 Racing Team under the wall of the 2-minutes on the final day of the Shakedown

Sepang (Malaysia),February 2nd 2022 – End in Sepang of the Shakedown reserved to the MotoGP testers and rookies, the first act of the 2022 season and the debut for Marco Bezzecchi on the Ducati Desmosedici GP of the Mooney VR46 Racing Team.

Three days of hard work, very high temperatures (60 degrees the tarmac today), and a total of 125 laps completed for the young rookie. A great progression: first under the wall of the 2-minutes this morning fully exploiting the more favorable track conditions and then a best lap time of 1: 59.711 in the afternoon that means the P4 in the combined standings.

As scheduled, next appointment on the track during the upcoming weekend (5th and 6th February) with the official MotoGP test, with Luca Marini on track too, again at Sepang International Circuit.

Marco Bezzecchi

I’m happy: a good day today, even better than yesterday and overall a good job over the three days with all the technicians, Ducati and the Team. We have always improved, I am happy with my physical condition and I cannot complain. Saturday we will be back on track, there will be more references with the other riders, even more opportunities to ride together and I will continue to get familiar with the bike. Let’s go forward step by step.

Pablo Nieto

Team Manager

I am satisfied: these have been three important days of work for a new Team at the first real testing session. Marco did very well, together with the whole Team, he began to understand how the bike and the category works. The lap time is not bad at all, he was fast also considering that he made some small mistakes in that flying lap. We are here for learning, this is a kind of warm up for us and I’m happy. We will continue in this direction also in the next test, Luca will join us and will ride the 2022 Ducati Factory bike for the first time. Let’s go forward step by step, with the arrival of all the riders of the grid here, for Marco there will be more references and we will understand exactly where he is at the moment. It is an opportunity to be fully exploited to be able to stay in the slipstream of the strongest guys, make a step and have fun.

More, from a press release issued by Gresini Racing:

FALSE START FOR DI GIANNANTONIO IN SEPANG SHAKEDOWN

Only 38 laps (best lap-time of 2’02.596s) for Fabio Di Giannantonio in the three-day test at Sepang for rookies and test riders. The Italian, whose progression was halted at the end of day one due to a gastroenteritis, was unable to return to the track and he is currently recovering ahead of the upcoming two-day test – again at the Sepang International Circuit – which will take place this Saturday and Sunday (February 5th and 6th).

HIS CURRENT FITNESS CONDITION. Provided that the rider underwent through all protocols/medical checks needed (both rapid and PCR tests were negative), here is the diagnosis by Dr Michele Zasa, Clinica Mobile’s manager. “Fabio has a simple gastroenteritis, with the symptoms appearing at the end of the opening day of testing. This is something quite common when we travel to the Southeast of Asia, but still led to high dehydration that doesn’t allow him to ride safely. As a precautionary measure, he rested for two days and hopefully he will back to 100% of his physical condition for the upcoming two days of testing. He is recovering already, but it will be important to monitor the situation in the next hours.”

THE TIME LOST. No need to highlight the importance of the test, especially for a rookie. Diggia’s track engineer Donatello Giovanotti had to basically redo the testing schedule for the rider #49. “The idea for these three days was to understand the bike, but especially the tyres. After a quite positive day – despite the small number of laps – in which we only used the medium-tyre option, the schedule also included a test with the other tyre option and a mini race simulation to understand the bike behaviour and all the electronic strategies. It will be difficult to recover the time lost in the next couple of test days at Sepang: we will try to make up for the time lost after day one, try the other tyre option and try a race situation, but obviously we won’t be able to concentrate on the electronics and setup.”

“Few track action from Day1 at Sepang”

FABIO DI GIANNANTONIO #49

“I’m obviously very sorry. I got ready as good as I could to start these three days on the right foot, and the whole off-season in general. Due to a “silly” thing unfortunately I had to stay in bed. Yesterday I was totally knocked out, while today I’m a little better. I want to hope that with a couple more days off I will be ready to get back on track from Saturday already.”

MotoGP: Pramac Racing Expecting Great Things In 2022

David Swarts

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February 2, 2022

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MotoGP: Pramac Racing Expecting Great Things In 2022

PRAMAC RACING 2022: FASTER AND STRONGER

The team is at the starting blocks of the 2022 season: a new Team Manager, same riders and many ambitions thanks to the great performance of last year.

The curtain rises for the 2022 MotoGP World Championship, and Pramac Racing starts again after the fantastic results of last season, first of all the “Best Independent Team” title that rewards the great work of a group present at the starting blocks for the twenty first consecutive year. Johann Zarco and Jorge Martín will be the Team’s riders also this year. The Frenchman, twice world champion in the Moto2 class, is back from an incredible season that crowned him “Best Independent Rider “. The Spaniard – world champion in the Moto3 class – showed his immense talent by winning the coveted title of “Rookie of the Year” as a rookie in the premier class. Both riders will have available the Ducati Desmosedici GP22 with factory specs.

Paolo Campinoti “The goal of this year is to keep high the level after the excellent results of last season. 2021 showed us that the hard work, combined with the great professionalism of the people who form the Team, brings great results. The relationship we created with Johann and Jorge is special and the rankings show it clearly: Best Independent Team, Best Independent Rider and Rookie of the Year, Pramac Racing’s best season. I can’t wait to start, we expect great things”.

Claudio Calabresi “It’s my first time as Team Manager and I’ll give my best to take Pramac Racing even higher. I am sure that Johann and Jorge will help us, they already have done an exceptional job in 2021. This year the challenge is fascinating: to keep high the level and grow again. We have great ambitions and we will do everything to give many satisfactions to our fans”.

Fonsi Nieto “The whole team is working hard to get off to a great start. We want to reconfirm us among the most competitive MotoGP teams. Last year with Johann and Jorge we did incredible things, now we want to push the boundaries and fight in every race for the leading positions. I think we have what it takes to achieve great goals”

Johann Zarco “I’m really happy to run another season with Pramac Racing. Continuity is important, to improve oneself and to carry out ambitious projects. With the team we built a great relationship and I am very satisfied with what we did last season. I can’t wait to leave for tests and get on the bike. It’s going to be a great season.”

Jorge Martin “Last season was the most intense of my life, a series of strong emotions, hard moments but also of extremely happy ones. Together with Pramac Racing we have started to build something special. Last year we laid the foundation, this year we are ready for greater things.”

MotoGP: Quartararo Says He Knows Where He Can Improve

February 4, 2022

Monster Energy Yamaha riders Fabio Quartararo (left) and Franco Morbidelli (right). Photo courtesy Monster Energy Yamaha.

MONSTER ENERGY YAMAHA MOTOGP READY FOR 2022 TITLE QUEST

Sepang (Malaysia), 4th February 2022

Today, the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP team held their Online Team Presentation to officially open their 2022 campaign. Spearheaded by two young and competitive riders, Fabio Quartararo and Franco Morbidelli, the team is eager for the 2022 MotoGP World Championship kick-off in Qatar in March.

To set the tone for the upcoming MotoGP season, newly-appointed General Manager Motorsports Development Division of Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. Takahiro Sumi, Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Team Principal & Yamaha Motor Racing Managing Director Lin Jarvis, Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Team Director Massimo Meregalli, Factory Yamaha riders Fabio Quartararo and Franco Morbidelli, and Monster Energy‘s Senior Vice President of Sports Marketing Mitch Covington shared their thoughts on the team‘s past successes as well as its 2022 potential.

The colour scheme of the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP bikes remains the same for 2022, with the team‘s YZR-M1, the pit box, and the riders‘ leathers sporting a ’Monster Energy black‘ to ’Yamaha Factory Racing blue‘ gradient. The perfect blend between Yamaha‘s aesthetic and Monster Energy‘s instantly recognisable claw branding is also represented in the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP team logo and on the team uniforms.

Yamaha has a long-term global alliance with the team‘s title sponsor, Monster Energy Company, based on their mutual passion for racing. A multiple-year title sponsorship agreement with the Yamaha Factory Racing MotoGP Team was signed in the summer of 2018 and came naturally, as Monster Energy Company sponsors multiple Yamaha teams (among them the Yamaha Factory Racing MotoGP team since 2013) and riders (including Quartararo and Morbidelli) in various racing classes.

Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP is also pleased to announce that throughout the 2022 racing season the bike will continue to feature the slogans of Thai Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd., Yamaha Motor Philippines, and PT Yamaha Indonesia Motor Manufacturing, starting from the first two IRTA Tests held from 5-6 February in Sepang, Malaysia and from 11-13 February in Mandalika, Indonesia.

The team also welcomes with open arms their new Official Sponsors in 2022, including:

– MSI, the most trusted name in gaming and eSports;

– Debem, a cutting-edge company specialized in designing and producing industrial pumps for highly demanding environments;

– Tanida, a global leader company in sand casting;

– Pont Grup, a company specialized in providing insurance broker services to individuals, with more than 25 years of experience;

– Capit, leader in the production of professional tyre warmers since 1996;

– Axalta, a global coating company focused on providing customers with innovative colourful and sustainable solutions. Their logos will be gracing the team assets.

Moreover, the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP team is delighted to confirm the continuation of its relationship with numerous Official Sponsors and Official Partners, including:

OFFICIAL SPONSORS

– Monster Energy Company

– Eneos

– Blue Core

– Yamalube

– Akrapovic

– Yamaha Indonesia Motor Manufacturing/Semakin Di Depan

– Yamaha Motor Philippines/MIO

– MSI

– Thailand Yamaha Motor/Beyond the Limits

– Oakley

– Alpinestars

– VR46

– bLU cRU

– Gilles Tooling

– RCB

– Furukawa Electrics

– Debem

– Tanida

– DID

– NGK Spark Plugs

– BMC Air Filters

– Pont Grup

– Capit

– 2D

– BETA Tools

– Axalta

– Yamaha Corporation (Yamaha Music)

– Michelin

OFFICIAL PARTNERS

– Alpinestars

– Siemens-LMS

– BLS

– BETA Tools

– GOM

– RCM

– Toyota Material Handling

– 3M Peltor

– ParkingGO

– Flex

– Synlab

– Airbank

HOSPITALITY PARTNERS

– Mokador

– Ca’ dei Frati

– Pastificio Artigiano Fabbri

– Macelleria Belli

– Azienda Olearia del Chianti

For 2022, the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP team continue their alliance with VR46 Racing Apparel. They will manufacture the official teamwear, all provided with a prominent VR46 Racing Apparel logo. Identical official teamwear products will be on sale to Yamaha fans throughout the global dealer network and at racetrack merchandise sales points.

Additionally, eagle-eyed fans will spot the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP staff and riders don new facemasks supplied by BLS. The team is delighted to have them as a new Official Partner, as the team continuously strives to enhance its safety measures to keep riders and staff safe and healthy throughout the whole championship season amidst the ongoing global pandemic.

Furthermore, the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP team continue to support Yamaha‘s bLU cRU programme, encouraging a younger generation of on-road riders to follow their dream to become the next motorcycle racing star. Quartararo and Morbidelli are ambassadors of the programme and will serve as role models for all Yamaha‘s young talents.

With the upcoming season shaping up nicely, currently projected to count 21 GP rounds, Yamaha Factory Racing MotoGP Test Team rider Cal Crutchlow will be joining Quartararo and Morbidelli at the Official MotoGP Sepang Test, as Yamaha is putting all hands on deck to start their 2022 campaign off on the right foot.

TAKAHIRO SUMI

GM, MOTORSPORTS DEVELOPMENT DIV., YAMAHA MOTOR CO., LTD

First of all, I want to say ’Thank you for your support‘ to all Yamaha MotoGP fans around the world. In 2021, YMC‘s Motorsports Development Division worked closely together with the riders and teams to put in Yamaha‘s bid for the MotoGP World Title. It resulted in our first Premier Class Trophy since 2015, a great achievement! We dedicated the win to our loyal supporters. We are starting this new season with the mindset of a challenger and we want to make our fans proud of us again. We have an exciting rider line-up in Fabio Quartararo and Franco Morbidelli in the Factory Team and the vastly-experienced Andrea Dovizioso and new talent Darryn Binder in the WithU Yamaha RNF MotoGP team, so we are confident that this year our fans will again have a lot of exciting racing to look forward to.

LIN JARVIS

MANAGING DIRECTOR, YAMAHA MOTOR RACING

Last year‘s title victory was the best way to give back something special to Monster Energy Company to express our thanks for their continuous support and faith in our team. This year, we are entering our tenth year with Monster Energy as our sponsor and our fourth season with them as our title sponsor. They are fully immersed in and dedicated to motorsports and our strong global alliance makes our brands instantly connected. The 2021 Title win with Monster Energy as title sponsor was the absolute highlight of our successful partnership so far. The same goes for our many other official team sponsors, partners, and suppliers. Their commitment and love for MotoGP makes it possible for us to keep competing at the top-tier of motorcycle racing for what will be the third MotoGP season during this ongoing global pandemic. Our goals this year are to challenge to win the Rider title again and to have both riders strong all year to try to win the Constructor and Team titles even if we know it will be tough in the face of very stiff competition from all the other factories. With Fabio and Franky steering our M1s supported by our top-class team and engineers in Japan & Europe we are excited to start testing to prepare for the 2022 MotoGP season.

MASSIMO MEREGALLI

TEAM DIRECTOR

Let me start by saying that we are, of course, very happy to have won the 2021 World Championship with Fabio last year. But being the reigning World Champion comes with a bit of added pressure. We are highly aware that winning a championship one time is relatively easy compared to trying to win it two times in a row. So, the heat is on! We are all starting from zero again, and we have a long season ahead of us with 21 GPs on the calendar. We can‘t afford to dwell too much on the past: we need to focus on the task ahead and move forward if we want to finish first again. The team‘s morale is great, and the atmosphere has never been better. The new crew members that joined us last year have gelled incredibly well with the other staff. As Team Director I couldn‘t ask for a better crew to start this next title quest with. We are also very lucky to have such a strong rider line-up. Both Fabio and Franco are undisputed talents, and their riding suits our bike too. One of them will be looking to confirm his dominance in the MotoGP field, while the other is eager to showcase his full potential now that he is getting closer to a full recovery from his injury, so we are ready to fight.

FABIO QUARTARARO

The winter break was quite long, but if I‘m honest I feel like I kept busy the whole time. There were many events for me to attend, and of course training continued as normal – so all in all it was quite busy, but in a good way. I‘m excited to begin the new season and start riding and improving. We got the title last year, and that‘s great. Nobody can ever take that away from me, but as of the first day of riding, none of that matters anymore. Last year‘s title win is behind us now, we must focus on this year‘s championship. Last year we barely did any pre-season testing due to the pandemic. This year I already have a year of experience with the Factory Team, so we know how to work well together. We know our strengths and where we can improve, so that will help during the tests in Sepang and Mandalika.

FRANCO MORBIDELLI

Last year was all about showing mental strength whilst working on improving my physical strength. It was not easy to come back after the surgery on my knee, but the work that I did last year will be beneficial for me at the start of this season. We already have some data to work with, and I‘m already familiar with the bike and the team. I have always had a good feeling on the Yamaha, but this M1 is so smooth. I can‘t wait to start riding the 2022 bike now that my knee is in a better condition. I‘m very interested to see how our progress will continue. I also look forward to seeing the whole team again at the tests. The atmosphere in the team was really nice last year, so let’s see what steps we can make during winter testing.

American Flat Track: Mission Foods Expands Partnership With Series

February 4, 2022

AFT SuperTwins racers JD Beach (right) and Jarod Vanderkooi (left) on the podium with Mission Foods CEO Juan Gonzalez (center). Photo courtesy AFT. — AFT SuperTwins racers JD Beach (right) and Jarod Vanderkooi (left) on the podium with Mission Foods CEO Juan Gonzalez (center) in 2022. Photo courtesy AFT.