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MotoGP: KTM Introduces Its MotoGP Teams (Includes Video)

David Swarts
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MotoGP: KTM Introduces Its MotoGP Teams (Includes Video)

2022 MOTOGP™: THE SEARCH FOR PERFECTION STARTS HERE

KTM’s sixth season of MotoGP will see Red Bull KTM Factory Racing and Tech3 KTM Factory Racing take the RC16 into competition for the longest series in the history of the sport. Brad Binder, Miguel Oliveira, Raul Fernandez and Remy Gardner will attempt to find fresh milestones through the 21-Grand Prix campaign as the company chase their third successive year of race victory.

– Red Bull KTM Factory Racing set sights on 2022 GP wins: they were one of only three teams where both riders tasted victory last year

– Four factory RC16s on the ’22 grid with brand new Tech3 KTM Factory Racing line-up and four riders who have either been world champion or runner-up in the Moto2™ and Moto3™ classes

– KTM to enter MotoGP class with two top finishers and stars from the 2021 Moto2 series and the KTM GP Academy system

– Red Bull KTM Factory Racing refine Grand Prix organisation with Francesco Guidotti assuming the role of Team Manager

All routes lead to the Losail International Circuit on March 6th and the sixteenth consecutive year that the Grand Prix of Qatar will open the MotoGP World Championship. 2022 will be only the sixth season that KTM are on the MotoGP grid. Losail, in particular, was the scene of their very first full-time MotoGP appearance in 2016. During that intense learning term the factory was frequently trying to reduce the gap to the peak of the pack. They have since surged to the forefront with five Grand Prix victories and 12 podium appearances in just half a decade.

Binder (26-years-old, 17 career wins, two in MotoGP) prepares for his third MotoGP season, all with Red Bull KTM Factory Racing. Oliveira (27, 15 career wins and three in the premier class) entered MotoGP a year earlier but is currently the most prolific of the quartet and has walked the podium five times in three campaigns, all with the KTM RC16.

Red Bull KTM Factory Racing welcome Francesco Guidotti into the role of Team Manager with the Italian overseeing the second consecutive season of former Moto3 and Moto2 teammates Binder and Oliveira together on the rider roster. Guidotti will bring his former experience and nuance in the category to a refined set-up that will focus on pure results, with the KTM testing team – led by Dani Pedrosa and Mika Kallio – spearheading development of the KTM RC16 away from Grands Prix.

KTM face 2022 with four factory riders and factory machines thanks to the fourth year of collaboration with the Tech3 KTM Factory Racing Team. Hervé Poncharal’s knowledgeable and decorated outfit will again help to induct two exciting new recruits: Moto2 World Champion Remy Gardner (23-years-old and six career victories) and 2021 runner-up Raul Fernandez (21 and 10 triumphs in two classes). Both riders came through elements of KTM’s GP Academy and Aki Ajo’s fabled set-up in both the Moto2 and Moto3 divisions.

The 2022 KTM MotoGP launch video can be seen here:

Brad Binder: “I’ve learnt so much over the last two seasons it’s difficult just to pick a couple things in particular. I think each year has come with it’s own sets of challenges: in my first I had to manage my expectations a bit. I often wanted too much, too soon and made a lot of mistakes. Last year I had to accept where we were at some points and try and bring the bike home, which was difficult but I learnt a lot last year: I learned so much more about the category, how to save my tires better, how to manage races and I enjoyed it a lot actually. So, I’m going in to my third season understanding what I need to do to go faster and I’m looking forward to getting the year started. I’m more ready than I’ll ever be.”

 

Brad Binder. Photo courtesy KTM Factory Racing.
Brad Binder. Photo courtesy KTM Factory Racing.

 

Miguel Oliveira: “Last year we had a huge step forward in four races where I scored three podiums and one win so that was quite nice. Then with the injury in the second half of the season the races became really tough: it was definitely a learning curve for me. I lacked consistency and of course this season I’d like to improve that. It’s never easy to go to the limit and still think about finishing the race. I would say if I’m able to score points in every GP then at the end of the championship the result might be quite different, so we’re just looking to take the maximum potential of myself, of the bike, of the whole crew and translate that into results.”

 

Miguel Oliveira. Photo courtesy KTM Factory Racing.
Miguel Oliveira. Photo courtesy KTM Factory Racing.

 

Raul Fernandez: “I am really happy to do my first MotoGP season and it is a great opportunity for me. I remember only three years ago I was competing in the Moto3 World Championship, and now here I am in the MotoGP class. It is an absolute pleasure. This winter, I prepared differently than previous years in order to gain muscle and get stronger. The MotoGP bike is so much more powerful. The braking is different… Everything requires more physical fitness, so I did motocross and road bike training, some cycling and running, and I feel ready. My main goal this season will be to advance and progress race by race, and enjoy myself in every single one of them.”

 

Raul Fernandez. Photo courtesy KTM Factory Racing.
Raul Fernandez. Photo courtesy KTM Factory Racing.

 

Remy Gardner: “I am thrilled to start my first season in the MotoGP class. This is the dream of every motorcycle racer and I cannot wait to get started. We already had a few tests in 2021 that were encouraging, so I am very excited to improve myself, continue to discover the bike, and be able to learn about this amazing class with so many talented riders.I am also looking forward to working again with Tech3, getting along with the team, and continuing the relationship with KTM. This is going to be a long,but interesting year. I know it won’t always be easy but I will always push, try and give the best of myself in order to get the best results we can without going too crazy. I will certainly take this season step by step, but I am very excited to start riding again.”

 

Remy Gardner. Photo courtesy KTM Factory Racing.
Remy Gardner. Photo courtesy KTM Factory Racing.

 

Francesco Guidotti, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing Team Manager: “It is always important to do better than the previous year. To do better we need more consistent results, more consistency in the top five and on the podium. We have to develop the bike to make the riders happy, to give them the right feeling and confidence to achieve these results. Of course, their position is an important one because they need to show the potential of the bike and the project. They have 2-3 years experience in this category now so maybe it is the right moment to use this experience. They have already won some races so the ability and the potential is there ,so we have to see it more regularly. In the last five years the results have been incredible; starting from zero like KTM did and what they achieved is unbelievable and we want to keep it going.”

Hervé Poncharal, Tech3 KTM Factory Racing Team Principal: “The new season is always an intense moment, exciting and emotional. 2022 is very special for us because we have the pleasure to welcome Remy Gardner and Raul Fernandez, who respectively finished first and second in the 2021 Moto2 World Championship.There has been a lot of work done this winter to prepare for the 2022 season, both on the bike and in the organization of the KTM MotoGP technical structure. The Tech3 KTM Factory Team has had a few changes of its own too. We are now impatient and ready to start. With two rookies, we don’t expect to win the championship, but our main target will be to win the Rookie of the Year title in the MotoGP class. We are hoping to do some strong finishes, Top 10 and why not Top 5? With riders like Remy and Raul, we have to dream high. Over the last years, rookies have reached podiums, so it can be us this year.”

Pit Beirer, KTM Motorsport Director: “2021 was the most successful motorsport season ever in our group. It is amazing what we have done in one year in the road racing paddock: winning the Moto3 world championship and the Moto2 world championship and finishing 6th in MotoGP. It is super-motivating for everything in the future. When you start a project like this in MotoGP you want to win a race one day and to say that sounds quite simple but to actually do it is such an incredible effort from so many people involved. We did it. It’s on paper, but we also had to learn it the hard way; you win one weekend in that class but the next weekend you are fighting to qualify for Q2 because it is just so tight. The target for us now is to be there consistently every weekend, get in that top five and fight for the podium at the end of season standings. That must be the goal for this season. I know it is a very high one because the other manufacturers have ambitious targets as well but we are strong now: we have the team, the base, the bike and we have the riders.”

Hubert Trunkenpolz, Member of the Executive Board, KTM CMO: “For the first time ever we crossed the revenue of two billion and it is another milestone for the company. A continuation of the years of growth. It is an unbelievable success story and we are extremely happy we could achieve it. On the other side when we take a look at motorsport in general we have achieved 21 titles and this is also another record and motorsport engagement is the most important marketing tool we have by far. For sure this incredible success in motorsport is firing-up the company’s revenues and the brand awareness and it is incredibly important. There were some amazing stories in 2021: Miguel’s podium streak, Brad’s win at home, Pedro Acosta, the Moto2 title fight. We cannot wait to see what will happen in 2022. Riders who know how to win races also know how to win championships. It is up to us now to give them the right material, the right structure, the right team and the right situation. Also, the right back-up from the factory. If everything comes together then the riders will be the ones helping all of us achieve our goals.”

MotoAmerica: TSE Racing Fielding Harry Truelove In Daytona 200

David Swarts
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MotoAmerica: TSE Racing Fielding Harry Truelove In Daytona 200

Harry Truelove joins TSE Racing

TSE Racing is excited to have Harry Truelove racing with them for the Daytona 200. Harry has been racing in the BSB Supersport class the past few years and has caught the interest of TSE, as well as the excitement of bringing an international rider to compete in the iconic Daytona 200.

Mark Stiles, Team Owner: “We are very excited to have Harry join our team for the Daytona 200. He had a pretty good season last year at BSB winning 3 races, we look forward to working with him and seeing what he can do at this event. The team knows how important the pit stops are, and we will give Harry the best opportunity we can to be fighting at the front.”

Harry Truelove: “I’m really excited to be racing the Daytona 200 with TSE Racing. It’s such a prestigious race and after speaking with the team I’m certain we’ll be able to fight for a good result. I’m extremely thankful for this opportunity and can’t wait to get started.”

TSE Racing will be coming in strong with the same crew from the previous season. Scott Jensen will again be taking the lead as crew chief, while Scotty Ryan from Öhlins USA will be there as their suspension technician.

Follow TSE Racing on their Instagram @tse_racing for updates and news from the event.

CSBK: TSN Planning Expanded Coverage In 2022

David Swarts
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CSBK: TSN Planning Expanded Coverage In 2022

CSBK Announce Expanded TSN Coverage for 2022 Canadian Pro Nationals

Toronto, ON – The Sports Network, TSN, have announced expanded coverage for the Canadian Superbike National Championship (CSBK) during the 2022 National motorcycle road racing season. TSN will broadcast seventeen episodes of race action in 2022, the most extensive coverage since the National road race tour joined the network in 1995.

“This is a very exciting development for the series,” explains CSBK boss Colin Fraser. “The last two seasons have been complicated, but we have concentrated on the quality of our video coverage, and that has worked out well for the Championship. Now TSN has confirmed the strength of the series coverage with this expanded broadcast format for 2022.”

TSN is Canada’s sports leader and provides world-class content across the industry-leading platforms including five National television feeds, TSN direct, TSN.ca, and TSN radio stations across Canada. TSN is affiliated with ground-breaking American broadcaster ESPN, and TSN is the Canadian home to several major motorsports, including Formula One and NASCAR.

In 2022, TSN will broadcast every Pro Superbike feature race, as well as every race in the Liqui Moly Pro Sport Bike middleweight support category. This will be the first time that full race coverage for the Pro Sport Bike class will be broadcast on TSN.

TSN will broadcast two Pro Superbike races from each of the first three events at Grand Bend Motorplex, June 9-12, Calabogie Motorsports Park, July 8-10, and Atlantic Motorsport Park, July 21-24.

At the traditional CSBK series final at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park, August 12-14, the final three Championship Pro Superbike races will be broadcast. CSBK staged the first-ever series triple header at C.T.M.P., “old Mosport,” with International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) support in 2021.

At most 2022 CSBK National events, one Pro Superbike race will be recorded on the Saturday, and then the second on Sunday. At the final round at C.T.M.P., superbike qualifying will take place on Friday and there will be one Superbike race on Saturday and two on the final Sunday afternoon of the 2022 season.

Last season, Alex Dumas of Desmaures, QC, earned the Pro Superbike Championship and Canadian overall title for the MPG/FAST Riding School Suzuki Canada team. 19-year-old Dumas is the youngest Champion in the 42-year history of the CSBK Series, and also earned the Brooklin Cycle Racing Pro Rookie of the year Award.

2019 CSBK National number one Ben Young of Collingwood, ON, was second overall in 2021 with his Van Dolder’s Home Team BMW and fought for victory and the title with Dumas at the final 2021 round at Calabogie last September. Young’s CSBK effort took him the 2021 Championship with BMW’s in-house Motorrad Race Trophy series, and Young will compete aboard a newly approved M1000RR racer, his prize for overall Trophy series success.

The 2022 Liqui Moly Pro Sport Bike CSBK series will consist of two races at each National event, one on Saturday and one on Sunday. The eight race 2022 series will provide the most championship events in the history of the middleweight category, as well as the most video coverage.

The Pro Sport Bike category is famed for close competition at the front of the class, but last season “The Shaker,” Sebastien Tremblay of Laval, QC., dominated middleweight action. Tremblay won all four races aboard his Turcotte Performance Kawasaki ZX-6R Ninja, and his Montreal-area tuning shop supported several front runners in the Sport Bike category.

David MacKay of Stoney Creek, ON., was second overall in the 2022 Pro Sport Bike series points on another Ninja and will be looking forward to CSBK’s return to his home track of Grand Bend on Ontario’s “West Coast” for the series opener following a COVID-enforced two-year layoff.

ASBK Announces More Sponsors For 2022 Season

David Swarts
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ASBK Announces More Sponsors For 2022 Season

Yamaha Finance have buoyed their association with the R3 Cup by announcing their continued support of the fiercely competitive series in 2022. 

Regardless if your passion is land or marine based, Yamaha’s broad range of products is all about the experience. Yamaha Financial Services share and understand this passion.

The Yamaha Finance R3 Cup (YMF R3 Cup) was introduced to the Australian Superbike Championship (ASBK) in 2016 as a one-make series featuring the Yamaha R3 motorcycle. Modifications are limited and because all the bikes are similar, with race results are determined by a rider’s ability to race and set the bike up specifically to their needs.

Yamaha Finance representative Matt Ferry: “The evenness of the machinery in the Yamaha Finance R3 Cup places a premium on race-craft, which is why this category is such so exciting. It’s that kind of passion that we understand at Yamaha Finance.”

Motorcycling Australia (MA) CEO Peter Doyle: “Motorcycling Australia are extremely pleased to see Yamaha Finance once again come on board in support of the YMF R3 Cup. Since its introduction, the R3 Cup has provided a fun and affordable class platform for riders wishing to get into racing, as well as those hoping to progress their career.”

For more information on Yamaha Financial Services’ broad range of products go to https://www.yamaha-motor.com.au/buying/finance-and-insurance

mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship presented by Motul –  
2022 Calendar  

Round 1 Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, VIC 25 – 27 February
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup, OJC, SBK Masters

Round 2 Queensland Raceway, Ipswich QLD 18 – 20 March
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup, OJC, Sidecars

Round 3 Wakefield Park Raceway, Goulburn NSW 22 – 24 April
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup, OJC, Sidecars

Round 4 Hidden Valley Raceway, Darwin NT 17 – 19 June
* With Supercars – SBK Only

Round 5 Morgan Park Raceway, Warwick QLD 5 – 7 August
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup, OJC

Round 6 Symmons Plains Raceway – Launceston TAS 20 – 23 October
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup

Round 7 Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, Cowes VIC TBA – November
TBC

Round 8 The Bend Motorsport Park, Tailem Bend SA 2 – 4 December
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup, OJC

ASBK Night of Champions Dinner – The Bend 4 December

For more information and event details, see the official Championship website www.asbk.com.au

 

 

More, from another press release issued by ASBK:

The mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship, presented by Motul (ASBK) is pleased to announce that Dunlop has re-affirmed their support of the Supersport 300 class by once again signing on as the class sponsor for the 2022 season. 

The Dunlop Supersport 300 Championship is rightly considered as both an important step in the development of young riders and fantastic and exciting class in its own right.

Dunlop National Motorcycle & Motorsport Manager Robbie Bugden: “The closeness and excitement of the racing in the Dunlop Supersport 300 Championship is well known. Racing plays a big part in the development of our tyre technology for the public, but more than that, we believe in the spirit of competition, and nothing embodies that quite like motorcycle racing.”

Motorcycling Australia (MA) CEO Peter Doyle: “It’s extremely gratifying to see Dunlop’s continued support of ASBK. The Dunlop Supersport 300 Championship has become renowned for producing some of the closest and most exciting racing on the ASBK program. The emphasis on race craft, combined with its accessibility to junior competitors, has made Supersport 300 a very attractive category for young, up-and-coming riders.”

For more information on Dunlop’s range of motorcycle tyres go to http://www.dunloptyres.com.au/tyres/motorcycle-tyres/

mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship presented by Motul – 
2022 Calendar  

Round 1 Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, VIC 25 – 27 February
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup, OJC, SBK Masters

Round 2 Queensland Raceway, Ipswich QLD 18 – 20 March
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup, OJC, Sidecars

Round 3 Wakefield Park Raceway, Goulburn NSW 22 – 24 April
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup, OJC, Sidecars

Round 4 Hidden Valley Raceway, Darwin NT 17 – 19 June
* With Supercars – SBK Only

Round 5 Morgan Park Raceway, Warwick QLD 5 – 7 August
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup, OJC

Round 6 Symmons Plains Raceway – Launceston TAS 20 – 23 October
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup

Round 7 Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, Cowes VIC TBA – November
TBC

Round 8 The Bend Motorsport Park, Tailem Bend SA 2 – 4 December
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup, OJC

ASBK Night of Champions Dinner – The Bend 4 December

For more information on the Official ASBK test, visit the ASBK Championship website at www.asbk.com.au

 

 

More, from another press release issued by ASBK:

The mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship, presented by Motul (ASBK) is pleased to announce that Michelin has signed on as the title sponsor of the Supersport Championship for the 2022 season. 

Often affectionately described in the paddock as the “600s”, Supersport’s enduring appeal has been its ability to maintain costs at a manageable level, with bikes predominantly production-spec with limited modifications.

For Michelin, racing has been an integral and critical aspect of the company’s activities, serving not only as a marketing channel but also offering proof-of-concept for the company’s extensive R&D process.

Founded in 1889, the Michelin Group provides tyres to over 170 countries. The Michelin Group makes tyres locally for customers’ specific needs and road conditions in one of their 69 production facilities around the world.

Doug Sharp, Michelin Australia: “Michelin Australia is proud to support the Supersport Championship, a category which always puts on a great show and has also become a launching pad for riders to create overseas opportunities in WorldSBK, WorldSS and BSB. In recent years, we’ve seen the likes of Oli Bayliss, Tom Toparis, Max Stauffer and Broc Pearson show their talent in the Supersport category.

“We’re sure that 2022 will again deliver great racing and we are all looking forward to the first round of the 2022 ASBK Championship and the Michelin Supersport Championship.”

Motorcycling Australia (MA) CEO Peter Doyle: “Motorcycling Australia are excited to see Michelin throw their support behind Supersport. Supersport is well established as one of the jewel in the crown categories of ASBK, with many riders honing their craft and showing their potential in this fantastic category.”

To get the most out of your motorbike’s performance on the track, go to https://www.michelin.com.au/motorbike/browse-tyres/by-category/sports

mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship presented by Motul –   
2022 Calendar 

Round 1 Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, VIC 25 – 27 February
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup, OJC, SBK Masters

Round 2 Queensland Raceway, Ipswich QLD 18 – 20 March
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup, OJC, Sidecars

Round 3 Wakefield Park Raceway, Goulburn NSW 22 – 24 April
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup, OJC, Sidecars

Round 4 Hidden Valley Raceway, Darwin NT 17 – 19 June
* With Supercars – SBK Only

Round 5 Morgan Park Raceway, Warwick QLD 5 – 7 August
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup, OJC

Round 6 Symmons Plains Raceway – Launceston TAS 20 – 23 October
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup

Round 7 Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, Cowes VIC TBA – November
TBC

Round 8 The Bend Motorsport Park, Tailem Bend SA 2 – 4 December
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup, OJC

ASBK Night of Champions Dinner – The Bend 4 December

For more information on the Official ASBK test, visit the ASBK Championship website at www.asbk.com.au 

 

 

More, from another press release issued by ASBK:

The mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship (ASBK) is pleased to announce that Alpinestars has announced their continuing support of the Superbike class for the 2022 season.

Australian Superbike Championship (ASBK) bikes are fast, spectacular and sound incredible. The category is a big drawcard for fans as ASBK machinery is very similar to the ones that the public can purchase off the showroom floor.

Alpinestars – Scott Runciman: “Alpinestars are proud to be continuing their association with the Australian Superbike Championship. Over our journey, Alpinestars has outfitted countless world champions and we hope to continue in that tradition.

Motorcycling Australia (MA) CEO Peter Doyle: “Alpinestars have been a terrific supporter of the Australian Superbike Championship and it is extremely gratifying to see their continued involvement in our premier racing class in 2022. We’re pleased to once again see the Alpinestars Superbike Championship on our race calendar.”

“With Alpinestars support, we will once again be able to serve up some of the best Superbike racing anywhere in the world. It’s a Championship that we can all be very proud of.”

Serving the best in style and craftsmanship, you can find out more on the range of Alpinestars Australian merchandise at http://monzaimports.com.au/moto/catalogues/

mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship presented by Motul –   
2022 Calendar   

Round 1 Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, VIC 25 – 27 February
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup, OJC, SBK Masters

Round 2 Queensland Raceway, Ipswich QLD 18 – 20 March
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup, OJC, Sidecars

Round 3 Wakefield Park Raceway, Goulburn NSW 22 – 24 April
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup, OJC,

Round 4 Hidden Valley Raceway, Darwin NT 17 – 19 June
* With Supercars – SBK Only

Round 5 Morgan Park Raceway, Warwick QLD 5 – 7 August
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup, OJC

Round 6 Symmons Plains Raceway – Launceston TAS 20 – 23 October
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup

Round 7 Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, Cowes VIC TBA – November
TBC

Round 8 The Bend Motorsport Park, Tailem Bend SA 2 – 4 December
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup, OJC

ASBK Night of Champions Dinner – The Bend 4 December

For more information on the Official ASBK test, visit the ASBK Championship website at www.asbk.com.au 

 

 

 

More, from another press release issued by ASBK:

THE YAMAHA OCEANIA JUNIOR CUP READY TO RACE IN 2022!

Garry McCoy set to join as series coach in ‘22.

The mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship (ASBK) presented by Motul 2022 season gets underway this week with the official ASBK two-day test at Phillip Island.

For the Yamaha Oceania Junior Cup (OJC), the class of 2022 will have their first official hit out on the fantastic Yamaha R15 on the world-class Phillip Island Grand Prix circuit.

Yamaha returns for their fourth year supporting the OJC, and for Matt Ferry, Division Manager Sales & Marketing, Yamaha Motor Australia, the OJC answers the need for a development series that just works. “Yamaha Motor Australia is proud to be involved in the OJC- R15 Cup as it has proven to be a successful and needed introduction to road racing at an affordable level. We’ve seen riders progress from their first on-track experience through to racing professional classes both here in Australia and on the world stage.  We at Yamaha Motor Australia are passionate around racing and we think the OJC represents the perfect entry-level racing into the ASBK, provides a friendly and safe environment for riders and families as well as develop and nurture future national and international champions.”

Riders in the OJC will benefit from a wealth of experience this season, with former 500cc, MotoGP and  World Superbike racer Garry McCoy set to come on board as the series coach for 2022.

“There’s a lot of things I’ve got to give, so I’m looking forward to it,” said McCoy.

McCoy has already been keeping in the development game by coaching junior competitors at Morgan Park and even had the opportunity to coach young gun, Joel Kelso, who will make his debut in the Moto3 class in 2022.

The OJC allows competitors to learn fundamental technical aspects such as suspension set-up and tyre settings. On this front, McCoy is confident the series with provide an ideal grounding for riders wishing to progress through the ranks.

“It’s great to have a focus on suspension, a bit of data and working with your tyres. Riders will have to learn to ride on worn tyres for Friday sessions. You don’t learn much by throwing new tyres on the bike every session.” said McCoy.

With the OJC now in its fourth season, McCoy says he will be approaching his role as coach as an open book – take things one-step at a time and see where the riders are currently at and how they will evolve.

“Hopefully I’ll be able to give advice not just on set-up, but from my experience racing oversees and racing with a limited budget.”

McCoy also believes he will have some sage-like advice to offer young riders on off-track necessities, such as dealing with the media and other competitors.

“It’s not about how to win them over, but how to put them out of your mind, keep to yourself and do your own thing,” he said.

“I really enjoy working with kids. They’re all very different in that some want to listen and some don’t, but that’s all part of growing up. At the end of the day, you want to put a smile on their faces.”

Notwithstanding the youth of the field, for many newcomers to the OJC, it has been a long path to the 12 corners of the Phillip Island circuit. Without help from parents, and supporters, this would not be possible.

The Oceania Junior Cup would not be possible without the outstanding support of the series sponsors, rider supporters (mum and dad!) and on-the-ground volunteers and staff making this terrific and important development series take place.

Andrew Smart from Ricondi, whose company supplies the riders with leathers, gloves, boots, compression wear and uniforms, continuing the Australian company’s support into a fourth year was an easy decision. “It’s humbling to have an Aussie brand involved in this important series. We want to thank all those who have supported us just as we have supported the riders. Not only have we sponsored the riders and taught them about what our products can do to protect them, so too have they taught us and helped develop our products- particularly our suits- to better suit the young riders as they mature.”

Dunlop Australia – New Zealand are supporting the OJC in 2022 in a multitude of ways. Typically, tyre sponsorship extends as far as product supply and support, but for Dunlop Motorsport Manager Robbie Bugden, his racing experience will be put to great use: “I’m looking forward to not only supporting the category but also focussing helping these rookie racers make the most of our products. For me, that means passing on my knowledge about tyres; choices, construction, temperature, pressures and so on. I can’t wait to get started…”

The Winton Circuit in Northeast Victoria will be the “Home of the OJC” in 2022 with the circuit once again providing the riders with a training event and track time as well as logistic and storage support in 2022. Rowan Harmon, events Manager at Winton Motor Raceway: “The OJC is a terrific program for the Junior Rider looking to progress their career, be it domestically or overseas, and Winton Motor Raceway is proud to be chosen to support this program”.

SHARK helmets join the OJC in 2022 and of course safety is their focus, with many elements learned from racing incorporated into the road helmet range. For SHARK Australia representative Joel Ryan, “We’re proud to be providing the OJC field with helmets that are the same FIM approved helmet in use in all GP classes. The safety of the riders is the highest priority to everyone involved, and SHARK Helmets are pleased to be doing what we can to contribute to this series and it’s genuinely exciting to be involved with the next generation of Australian racing stars.”

One of the goals of the OJC is to produce MotoGP stars of the future and having Öhlins Racing advanced suspension technology on board in 2022 will see this major supplier of MotoGP suspension products and expertise support the OJC paddock with the best possible suspension package for the Yamaha R15s.

The ideal way to ensure the racing Yamaha R15 bikes are getting the ideal lubricants is to use the products “Made for Yamaha, by Yamaha” and the OJC welcomes Yamalube as the official lubricant supplier for the series in 2022.

The OJC has a massive learning curve for rookie riders and thanks to Mototrack Accessories, every rider will have use of a SpeedAngle GPS Lap Timer with Lean Angle Measurement and Data Logging. For Steve Thibou at Mototrack Accessories, it’s an opportunity to help OJC riders be their best: “It’s important to my business to show that Speed Angle is more than a lap timer- it’s a device that can help riders of all standards improve. For me personally, it’s important to support the youth of the sport as they progress.”

Darren Webb, whose company Webb Plastics supplies both the race screens for the bikes and the trophies for the winners, supporting the OJC is a personal decision: “Essentially we are involved in the OJC to invest in the future of Australian Motorcycle racing. From a commercial standpoint, making both the race screens and the trophies for the series shows the versatility and capabilities of our company.”

D.I.D brand drive chains are all manufactured in Kaga, Ishikawa prefecture, Japan, and supplied through motorcycle dealers worldwide. In 2022 D.I.D. will join the OJC paddock, offering outstanding performance for all riders.

Without this extensive list of supporters and sponsors, the OJC would not be the cost-effective and competitive category it is today. With an oversubscribed entry list and a number of riders progressing to other classes, it’s a series that Motorcycling Australia (MA) CEO Peter Doyle is proud of: “The OJC is an important development class for Motorcycling in Australia. In just four years of existence, some 19 riders have progressed to overseas racing, with many others continuing their careers in Australia.

“In this short time, we’ve been pleasantly surprised at just how good the series is in terms of training and developing riders and I can personally say I have been very, very pleased to see how good the racing is as well!

“As a cost-effective and valuable series, we cannot thank the sponsors enough. Their help makes the OJC affordable to most every race family in Australia and I want to thank all involved for their efforts and am really looking forward to this coming season.”

The 2022 OJC Series kicks off this week with the two-day Phillip Island test ahead of Round one at the same venue 25-27 February, 2022.

For more information and event details, see the official Championship website www.asbk.com.au

 

 

More, from another press release issued by ASBK:

The mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship (ASBK) presented by Motul is proud to announce that presenting rights holders and lubricant specialists Motul are set to return in 2022. 

Motul has placed motorsport as its prime creative and ingenious laboratory since it first began appearing in motorsport disciplines in the 1950s. This involvement and dedication to excellence has seen Motul work with some of the finest teams and riders in history.

For Brenden Stoeckert, General Manager Link International – Motul Distributor Australia, the company’s long-term commitment to racing makes sponsorship of ASBK a logical decision: “Motul has been involved in racing via various partnerships for a long time and this unbroken relationship with racing has established and maintained the brand as a global motorsport power reference it is today.”

“We are pleased to be the presenting rights sponsor again in 2022 and wish all involved the very best.”

Motorcycling Australia (MA) CEO Peter Doyle: “Motul have been an important supporter of motorcycle racing in Australia and having them return as presenting rights sponsor in 2022 is an important element in the ongoing success of ASBK.”

“In 2022, we are looking forward to a full season of competitive and entertaining racing and the support of our sponsors is key to making this happen. I want to thank Motul for their support on behalf of not only Motorcycling Australia but all fans and stakeholders.”

mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship presented by Motul –  2022 Calendar 

Round 1 Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, VIC 25 – 27 February
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup, OJC, SBK Masters

Round 2 Queensland Raceway, Ipswich QLD 18 – 20 March
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup, OJC, Sidecars

Round 3 Wakefield Park Raceway, Goulburn NSW 22 – 24 April
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup, OJC, Sidecars

Round 4 Hidden Valley Raceway, Darwin NT 17 – 19 June
* With Supercars – SBK Only

Round 5 Morgan Park Raceway, Warwick QLD 5 – 7 August
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup, OJC

Round 6 Symmons Plains Raceway – Launceston TAS 20 – 23 October
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup

Round 7 Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, Cowes VIC TBA – November
TBC

Round 8 The Bend Motorsport Park, Tailem Bend SA 2 – 4 December
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup, OJC

ASBK Night of Champions Dinner – The Bend 4 December

For more information and event details, see the official Championship website www.asbk.com.au

AHRMA Classic MotoFest In The Heartland Scheduled May 27-29

David Swarts
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AHRMA Classic MotoFest In The Heartland Scheduled May 27-29

AHRMA Classic MotoFest™ Brings Vintage Bikes to Topeka Kansas May 27-29

Heartland Motorsports Park to be host site of AHRMA Classic MotoFest™ in the Heartland

(Elora, Tennessee) – The American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association (AHRMA) in association with Antique Motorcycle Club of America (AMCA) and Laroque Motorsports confirmed it will host the AHRMA Classic MotoFest™ at Heartland Motorsports Park (HMP) in Topeka, Kansas.

The event is May 27-29, 2022, and will feature a wide array of vintage and modern, two and three-wheel action including road racing, motocross, cross country, flat track, trials and drag racing.

The MotoFest, while focused on the planned competition, will include a swap meet, bike show, cycle corral, and other family friendly activities.

With its mission of restoring and racing on and off-road vintage motorcycles while appealing to a diverse audience, it is an event that fits HMP. HMP is one of the finest, multi-purpose racing and entertainment destinations in the US. Located on the south side of Topeka, KS, the facility features a championship NHRA-sanctioned 1/4-mile drag strip, and a 2.5-mile road course. In addition, a large off-road area has been designated for the construction of a custom motocross track and 5-mile forested cross-country track as well as some technical trials zones specifically for this event.

“The AHRMA Classic MotoFest™ in the Heartland is a perfect opportunity for motorsports fans to see a variety of disciplines over one weekend”, said Travis Hilton, Track Manager for Heartland Motorsports Park. “With a facility as diverse as ours, AHRMA’s event utilizing the many different courses is phenomenal.  Spectators will certainly have their ticket’s worth of excitement seeing many different types of competition over the May 27-29th weekend. In addition to competition, entertainment options will be available for all in the form of a premiere bike show, widespread swap meet, and family friendly activities.   The 2022 AHRMA Classic MotoFest™ in the Heartland event will be a chance for new and old attendees to talk about for years—or at least until 2023!”

“We’re really excited to bring such a big variety of what AHRMA is all about to motorcycle fans in the Midwest,” said Brian Larrabure, AHRMA’s Chairman of the Board.  “Plus, the central location of HMP means we’ll attract AHRMA competitors from all over the country.”

AHRMA officials said the HMP event is a chance for racers to compete on and off-road during the same weekend.

More info to come about fan activities, celebrations and more for the entire family to enjoy. For general questions contact the AHRMA Classic MotoFest™ in the Heartland event coordinator Jim Doyle at [email protected].

ABOUT HEARTLAND:

Heartland Motorsports Park stands out as one of the world’s finest, multi-purpose racing and entertainment destinations. Located on the south side of Topeka, KS, the facility covers approximately 650 acres and provides ample room for its many racing and motorsports venues.

First opened in 1989, today’s facility features a championship, NHRA-sanctioned 1/4-mile drag strip, four-level sponsor-suite tower, a 2.5-mile road course with four different configurations, a 22-acre asphalt pad for autocross and drift events and a motocross track designed to host AHRMA type events.

The 23-acre paddock area features a mix of asphalt parking and access roads as well as grass parking and camping areas for car shows, swap meets and other large footprint events.

ABOUT AHRMA:

AHRMA (American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to preserving, restoring, and competing on historic motorcycles. With more than 3,000 members, AHRMA is the leading historic motorcycle racing group in North America and one of the largest in the world. The association’s enthusiastic membership reflects this country’s strong interest in classic bikes.

MotoAmerica: $150,000 Raised For Roadracing World Action Fund

David Swarts
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MotoAmerica: $150,000 Raised For Roadracing World Action Fund

MotoAmerica/Roadracing World Action Fund Raised Close To $150,000 In 2021

 

“Rainey’s Ride To The Races,” Dunlop ECSTAR 2 Up Rides And More Contributed To Fund That Promotes Motorcycle Racing Safety And Use Of Soft Barriers

IRVINE, CA (January 26, 2022) – MotoAmerica, North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series, is proud of its fans and friends who donated nearly $150,000 to the Roadracing World Action Fund over the course of the 2021 racing season.

A lot of the money for the Roadracing World Action Fund, the 501(c)3 non-profit organization that promotes motorcycle racing safety and the use of inflatable soft barriers at racing events, was raised on a single weekend at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca round of the MotoAmerica Series last July with three individuals donating the funds after seeing the soft barriers made by Airfence and Alpina brands in use.

A bonus to the WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca round of the series was “Rainey’s Ride To The Races,” a charity ride through the Monterey Peninsula that culminated at the track with a Q&A bench-racing session with three-time World Champion and MotoAmerica President Wayne Rainey and four-time World Champion Eddie Lawson, who also participated in the ride.

The largest of the donations from the weekend came from Medallia’s President and CEO Leslie Stretch, the sponsor of the 2022 MotoAmerica Medallia Superbike Series contributing $100,000 to the cause.

“For me it’s very simple,” Stretch said. “Every track I go to where I know that everything has been done for the safety of the riders, I exponentially enjoy going there. All sponsors should allocate part of their investment to ensure that is the case. It results in happier spectators, more focused competitors, and happier sponsors all around. It’s just the right thing.”

Another who contributed mightily to the fund was Robert Talbott, the founder of Talbott Vineyards and the owner of the Moto Talbott Museum in Carmel Valley, California. Talbott donated $20,000.

“When I realized that the Roadracing World Action Fund was a 501(c)3, I was pretty excited,” Talbott said. “It was something different than our normal donations. I’ve crashed and hurt myself, broken ribs, and various things and I understand how this could be an incredible life saver. I love this, and that there can actually be something to be done to keep riders safe… Riding motorcycles is a defensive hobby, sport, love, profession, and I absolutely am committed to riding. I have a lot of CHP (California Highway Patrol) buddy friends who ride and I’ve also got Hell’s Angels buddy friends. I love people who ride, and their safety is paramount. I want to ride long, but I want to ride safe. I love the fact that we can make a difference to keep riders safe. I’ve seen a lot of races and I’ve seen a lot of crashes and here is something we can be part of, and I’m thrilled. I have such respect for Wayne (Rainey) and if he’s channeling it, pushing it, I want to help him. This is really, really a neat thing. So many of the causes today don’t make the sense that this did to me. This is the right thing to do and my wife, Vivian, and I both believe it in.”

The Roadracing World Action Fund had a successful year in 2021 beyond the Laguna Seca weekend with Chris Ulrich’s Dunlop and ECSTAR-sponsored Two Up rides accounting for an additional $13,000 in donations and the MotoAmerica fines program bringing in $4000.

“I think I speak for everyone in our paddock when I say thank you to all those who contributed donations,” said MotoAmerica President Wayne Rainey. “Leslie (Stretch) feels strongly about the fund and what it does to help ensure the safety of our racers and he really stepped up to help financially. Robb (Talbott) and his wife, Vivian, saw first-hand how well the Airfence and Alpina soft barriers work and realized what a lifesaver it is for our racers, and they were the first to donate. All of them liked what they saw and decided to help, and their donations to the Roadracing World Action Fund will certainly help in the effort to purchase more Air Fence.”

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.

About the Roadracing World Action Fund

The Roadracing World Action Fund – a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization – began back in 2001 as a grassroots movement to improve racetrack safety for motorcycle racers and riders.  At the time, hay bales or stacks of tires were sometimes placed in front of concrete walls for rider protection in case of a crash. A far better solution for rider safety existed – inflatable soft barriers which absorb the energy of a crash. Soft barriers – made by Airfence or Alpina – can allow racers to often walk away from a crash which in the past might have caused catastrophic injury, or even death.

The Roadracing World Action Fund gained the support of the motorcycle community, as racers, riders, family and friends, motorcycle businesses, and racing organizations and racetracks helped to make use of soft barriers the standard, rather than the exception, for motorcycle races and track days at racetracks across the nation. Now, from Laguna to Daytona, Motorsports Ranch to VIR, Auto Club Speedway to Blackhawk Farms, and many more, soft barriers are deployed more frequently and in greater quantities than ever before, as the Roadracing World Action Fund continues its mission of helping prevent racetrack injuries through motorcycle road racing safety education.

FIM MiniGP Japan Starting In 2022

David Swarts
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FIM MiniGP Japan Starting In 2022

FIM MiniGP Japan Series to begin in 2022

Another Cup joins the newest path on the Road to MotoGP™ 

Wednesday, 26 January 2022

The FIM MiniGP Japan Series has become the newest Cup to enter the FIM MiniGP World Series, with competition set to start in 2022. Japan joins Australia, Austria, Indonesia and Qatar as new additions for this season, adding to the 10 Series that began in 2021: Alpe Adria, France, Ireland, Italy, Malaysia, the Netherlands, North America, Portugal, Spain and the UK.

The FIM MiniGP World Series is the first step on the Road to MotoGP™, designed to create an equal platform for young riders worldwide. Japan is already a vital presence in the motorcycle market and in motorcycle racing, and the FIM MiniGP Japan Series will ensure an economically viable and equal environment for young riders looking to begin their careers in racing.

As ever, the best riders will qualify for the FIM MiniGP World Final alongside the top riders from each Series, with the possibility of promotions up for grabs on the Road to MotoGP™.

Harley-Davidson Introduces King Of The Baggers-Inspired Models

David Swarts
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Harley-Davidson Introduces King Of The Baggers-Inspired Models
HARLEY-DAVIDSON REVEALS POWERFUL NEW GRAND AMERICAN TOURING,
CRUISER AND CVO MOTORCYCLES

 

New Models Highlight Thrilling Performance of Milwaukee-Eight 117 V-Twin

MILWAUKEE, WI (January 26, 2022) – Harley-Davidson adds performance and factory-custom style to its 2022 motorcycle line with the reveal of eight new models, each powered by the Milwaukee-Eight® 117, the most-powerful factory-installed engine offered by Harley-Davidson. New models include the Street Glide® ST and Road Glide® ST in the Grand American Touring line, the more powerful Low Rider® S, and the new Low Rider ST® Cruiser models, and four super-premium models from Harley-Davidson® Custom Vehicle Operations™ (CVO™).

“As part of our focus on stronghold segments, including Grand American Touring and Cruisier, the 2022 product line is designed for power and performance. Each of these new models feature the unrivalled power of the Milwaukee-Eight 117, for those riders who want nothing but the biggest and the best, building on our position as the most desirable motorcycle brand in the world,” said Jochen Zeitz, Chairman, President and CEO, Harley-Davidson.

Street Glide ST & Road Glide ST

Harley-Davidson elevates bagger performance and brings the purposeful style of the championship winning MotoAmerica King of the Baggers race bikes to the street with the introduction of the Street Glide® ST and Road Glide® ST models. These hot rod baggers combine the V-Twin muscle of the Milwaukee-Eight 117 powertrain with new dark and bronze finishes. For riders who want to strafe corners in comfort, the STs feature the complete suite of Harley-Davidson Grand American Touring features including Reflex™ linked Brembo® brakes with ABS, Boom!™ Box GTS infotainment system with color touch screen and navigation, cruise control and Daymaker® LED headlamps. The Street Glide ST features the iconic Harley-Davidson batwing fairing, while the Road Glide ST rolls with an aerodynamic frame-mounted sharknose fairing with dual headlamps.

 

Harley-Davidson's 2022-model Low Rider ST (left) and Low Rider S (right). Photo courtesy Harley-Davidson.
Harley-Davidson’s 2022-model Low Rider ST (left) and Low Rider S (right). Photo courtesy Harley-Davidson.

 

Low Rider S & Low Rider ST

The Low Rider S and new Low Rider ST models offer the taut handling performance of the Harley-Davidson® Softail® chassis and the V-Twin muscle of a Milwaukee-Eight® 117 powertrain.

“Our customers truly inspire us and the Low Rider ST was born from seeing the incredible builds at motorcycle shows around the world,” said Brad Richards, Harley-Davidson Vice President of Design. “We took the iconic Motor Company design from the Eighties and gave it a new identity with a modern echo. Add the Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine, a taller suspension and raised saddlebags and the Low Rider ST delivers both a dynamic visual package as well as a dramatic performance punch.”

The Low Rider S model is a performance cruiser kingpin designed for the rider seeking unapologetic power. The new Low Rider ST model offers the versatility of hard bags and a new frame-mounted fairing, plus an available Harley-Davidson Audio system powered by Rockford Fosgate.

Harley-Davidson Custom Vehicle Operations (CVO)

Premium limited-production factory custom models from Harley-Davidson® Custom Vehicle Operations™ (CVO™) offer the most-discerning rider a very special motorcycle designed to represent the pinnacle of style and design from the world’s most-desirable motorcycle brand. Exclusive and hand-crafted paint and designs are executed to a level of intricate quality that is unmatched in the motorcycle and automotive categories. Each is powered by a Milwaukee-Eight 117 powertrain. Other standard features include a premium Harley-Davidson® Audio powered by Rockford Fosgate® system, a Boom!™ Audio 30K Bluetooth® Helmet Headset, and Cornering Rider Safety Enhancements by Harley-Davidson, technology designed to enhance rider confidence during unexpected situations or poor road conditions. Each CVO model offers all-new paint options for 2022.

 

A 2022-model Harley-Davidson CVO Street Glide. Photo courtesy Harley-Davidson.
A 2022-model Harley-Davidson CVO Street Glide. Photo courtesy Harley-Davidson.

 

  • CVO Street Glide Model is a super-premium bagger for the rider who rolls loud and proud. The classic silhouette of the batwing fairing topped with jaw-dropping paint and finish details, premium audio and the pavement-peeling power of the Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine make this one outrageous bike.
  • CVO Road Glide Model is designed for the rider who wants to run out front behind its distinctive dual LED headlamps, frame-mounted shark nose fairing and the unrelenting performance of the Milwaukee-Eight 117 powertrain. Powerhouse audio, an exclusive 21-inch front wheel, fabulous custom paint and extraordinary attention to detail complete this very desirable bike.
  • CVO Road Glide Limited Model is loaded with luxury and long-haul comfort, head-turning style and power that always satisfies. Premium audio, heated seats and grips, and the aerodynamic Road Glide model shark nose fairing make this motorcycle the ultimate Harley-Davison Touring machine.
  • CVO Tri Glide Model is a super-premium trike offering distinctive style, powerful performance and long-haul touring capability plus the added confidence of a third wheel. The CVO Tri Glide is loaded with premium audio, luxurious comfort features and an astounding finish and attention to detail, on a chassis designed from the wheels up as a trike.

Cornering Rider Safety Enhancements by Harley-Davidson

Standard on CVO models and an option for all Grand American Touring models, including the Street Glide ST and Road Glide ST models, Cornering Rider Safety Enhancements by Harley-Davidson is a collection of technologies designed to assist the rider in maintaining the rider’s intended path through a curve. This technology package provides the following enhancements:

  • Cornering Electronically Linked Brakes
  • Cornering-ABS
  • Cornering-Traction Control with modes
  • Drag Torque Slip Control
  • Vehicle Hold Control
  • Tire Pressure Monitoring (TPMS)

Harley-Davidson stands for the timeless pursuit of adventure and freedom for the soul. Go to H-D.com to learn more about the complete line of 2022 Harley-Davidson motorcycles, gear, accessories and more.

 

 

About Harley-Davidson 

Harley-Davidson, Inc. is the parent company of Harley-Davidson Motor Company and Harley-Davidson Financial Services. Our vision: Building our legend and leading our industry through innovation, evolution and emotion. Our mission: More than building machines, we stand for the timeless pursuit of adventure. Freedom for the soul. Since 1903, Harley-Davidson has defined motorcycle culture with an expanding range of leading-edge, distinctive and customizable motorcycles in addition to riding experiences and exceptional motorcycle accessories, riding gear and apparel. Harley-Davidson Financial Services provides financing, insurance and other programs to help get Harley-Davidson riders on the road. Learn more at www.harley-davidson.com.

 

MotoGP: Marc Marquez Confirmed For Pre-Season Test At Sepang

David Swarts
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MotoGP: Marc Marquez Confirmed For Pre-Season Test At Sepang

Repsol Honda Team confirm Marc Marquez for Sepang Test

Marc Marquez has been cleared to make his on-track return with the new Honda RC213V and the Repsol Honda Team at the Sepang Test on February 05, 2022.

Throughout the winter Marquez has had continual medical checks and consultations to monitor his diplopia. In recent weeks the improvements in his condition saw his medical team deem his recovery sufficient to return to training on two wheels. The #93 first returned to the motocross track before trying the Honda RC213V-S in Portimao and a Honda CBR600RR in Aragon.

Last Monday, January 24, Marquez underwent another medical check which reconfirmed that the treatment has been a complete success and the eight-time World Champion is in a suitable condition to ride a MotoGP bike.

Therefore, it has been decided that Marquez will start his 2022 campaign at the first official MotoGP Test in Sepang before heading to Mandalika, Indonesia the following week. This will be Marquez’s first time back on a MotoGP machine since winning the 2021 Emilia Romagna GP ahead of Pol Espargaro.

The Repsol Honda Team will head to the first test of the new season at full strength with Marquez alongside Pol Espargaro, who enters his second year with the team.

SFLminiGP Creates Path For Youths To Move Up To Full-Size Tracks

David Swarts
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SFLminiGP Creates Path For Youths To Move Up To Full-Size Tracks

Introducing the SFLminiGP Bridge Program

 

THE CHALLENGE:

As the Mini Moto industry continues to steadily grow, there is a need to have minors transition safely to larger tracks. Parental concerns have limited options available to them when their child is ready to transition to a larger displacement motorcycle. There is a great risk to minors who ride larger tracks, and an accident with a larger cc motorcycle could have serious consequences.

 

 

THE OBSTACLE:

Most track day organizations are unwilling to create a 400cc & under class because it would be adding another rider category. The fear of lower attendance to their events due to less riding time for other classes over the importance of safety is a major factor for them.

 

PROPOSED SOLUTION:

SFLMINIGP has always had the business policy of removing the excuses to get more riders on the track. As we enter our 6th year operating in Florida, a lot of our young riders; and older riders for that matter; are becoming more successful on the racetrack and want to transition onto the bigger venues. SFLminiGP will now expand its series to a handful of large venue track days. There is a unique opportunity to provide qualified minors or adults a format where they can safely transition to a large venue via “The Bridge Program.” The structure would be as so:

 

·       Two (3) 20 Min Sessions (Lap times designate what group you are in)

o   1st session is for Beginner

o   2nd session is for Novice Riders

o   3rd  session is for Coaches and Advanced Riders

·       Motorcycles accepted for this event must be under 400ccs such as:

o   Moriwaki MD250H

o   Honda NSF250R

o   Tiandra 300s

o   Aprilia/Ohvale RS250SP

o   Kawasaki Ninja 400/300

o   Yamaha R3

o   Honda CBR 250/300

 

THE BENEFITS:

1.     Safety, Safety, Safety for the riders, tracks and operators

2.     Participants will learn the rules and regulations of the larger venues. There is a difference in approach from riding on a local kart track to being at a major facility. They will be prepared to enter race events such as Pan American Superbike, WERA, CCS and MotoAmerica

3.     All riders are classified by lap times and will not need to worry about larger displacement motorcycles passing at much higher rates of speed

4.     Coaching will be available to learn how to ride on a larger track vs the riding styles of kart tracks

 

SUPPORT:

·       Local vendors will be available with rental motorcycles and gear to help get more riders on the track for these specified events

·       Ensuring minors meet minimum eligibility requirements to responsibly ride on the track

·       Making certain that Bridge participants adhere to paddock rules

·       Code of conduct and professionalism will be required to participate

 

Who Can Participate:

·       Minimum Age is 12 yrs old

o   Important note: Children 12-15 must be pre-approved by the Bridge Program prior to the event by either submitting supporting documentation from a MiniGP Location or resume with proper and verifiable references.

·       Not just for kids…anyone looking for safe track time on bikes with 400cc or less

·       No 10” or 12” wheel sized motorcycles allowed

 

SCHEDULE:

All Events will be held at Jennings GP in Jennings, FL

·       April 28 & 29 (Thursday and Friday prior to the SFLMINIGP Round 3 at Gainesville Raceway)

·       June 2 & 3 (Thursday and Friday prior to the SFLMINIGP Round 5 at Bushnell Motorsports Park

·       November 3 & 4 (Thursday and Friday prior to the SFLMINIGP National Round at Bushnell Motorsports Park)

 

MotoGP: KTM Introduces Its MotoGP Teams (Includes Video)

The Red Bull KTM MotoGP racebikes (left) and the Tech3 KTM Factory Racing MotoGP racebikes (right). Photo by Philip Platzer, courtesy KTM Factory Racing.
The Red Bull KTM MotoGP racebikes (left) and the Tech3 KTM Factory Racing MotoGP racebikes (right). Photo by Philip Platzer, courtesy KTM Factory Racing.

2022 MOTOGP™: THE SEARCH FOR PERFECTION STARTS HERE

KTM’s sixth season of MotoGP will see Red Bull KTM Factory Racing and Tech3 KTM Factory Racing take the RC16 into competition for the longest series in the history of the sport. Brad Binder, Miguel Oliveira, Raul Fernandez and Remy Gardner will attempt to find fresh milestones through the 21-Grand Prix campaign as the company chase their third successive year of race victory.

– Red Bull KTM Factory Racing set sights on 2022 GP wins: they were one of only three teams where both riders tasted victory last year

– Four factory RC16s on the ’22 grid with brand new Tech3 KTM Factory Racing line-up and four riders who have either been world champion or runner-up in the Moto2™ and Moto3™ classes

– KTM to enter MotoGP class with two top finishers and stars from the 2021 Moto2 series and the KTM GP Academy system

– Red Bull KTM Factory Racing refine Grand Prix organisation with Francesco Guidotti assuming the role of Team Manager

All routes lead to the Losail International Circuit on March 6th and the sixteenth consecutive year that the Grand Prix of Qatar will open the MotoGP World Championship. 2022 will be only the sixth season that KTM are on the MotoGP grid. Losail, in particular, was the scene of their very first full-time MotoGP appearance in 2016. During that intense learning term the factory was frequently trying to reduce the gap to the peak of the pack. They have since surged to the forefront with five Grand Prix victories and 12 podium appearances in just half a decade.

Binder (26-years-old, 17 career wins, two in MotoGP) prepares for his third MotoGP season, all with Red Bull KTM Factory Racing. Oliveira (27, 15 career wins and three in the premier class) entered MotoGP a year earlier but is currently the most prolific of the quartet and has walked the podium five times in three campaigns, all with the KTM RC16.

Red Bull KTM Factory Racing welcome Francesco Guidotti into the role of Team Manager with the Italian overseeing the second consecutive season of former Moto3 and Moto2 teammates Binder and Oliveira together on the rider roster. Guidotti will bring his former experience and nuance in the category to a refined set-up that will focus on pure results, with the KTM testing team – led by Dani Pedrosa and Mika Kallio – spearheading development of the KTM RC16 away from Grands Prix.

KTM face 2022 with four factory riders and factory machines thanks to the fourth year of collaboration with the Tech3 KTM Factory Racing Team. Hervé Poncharal’s knowledgeable and decorated outfit will again help to induct two exciting new recruits: Moto2 World Champion Remy Gardner (23-years-old and six career victories) and 2021 runner-up Raul Fernandez (21 and 10 triumphs in two classes). Both riders came through elements of KTM’s GP Academy and Aki Ajo’s fabled set-up in both the Moto2 and Moto3 divisions.

The 2022 KTM MotoGP launch video can be seen here:

Brad Binder: “I’ve learnt so much over the last two seasons it’s difficult just to pick a couple things in particular. I think each year has come with it’s own sets of challenges: in my first I had to manage my expectations a bit. I often wanted too much, too soon and made a lot of mistakes. Last year I had to accept where we were at some points and try and bring the bike home, which was difficult but I learnt a lot last year: I learned so much more about the category, how to save my tires better, how to manage races and I enjoyed it a lot actually. So, I’m going in to my third season understanding what I need to do to go faster and I’m looking forward to getting the year started. I’m more ready than I’ll ever be.”

 

Brad Binder. Photo courtesy KTM Factory Racing.
Brad Binder. Photo courtesy KTM Factory Racing.

 

Miguel Oliveira: “Last year we had a huge step forward in four races where I scored three podiums and one win so that was quite nice. Then with the injury in the second half of the season the races became really tough: it was definitely a learning curve for me. I lacked consistency and of course this season I’d like to improve that. It’s never easy to go to the limit and still think about finishing the race. I would say if I’m able to score points in every GP then at the end of the championship the result might be quite different, so we’re just looking to take the maximum potential of myself, of the bike, of the whole crew and translate that into results.”

 

Miguel Oliveira. Photo courtesy KTM Factory Racing.
Miguel Oliveira. Photo courtesy KTM Factory Racing.

 

Raul Fernandez: “I am really happy to do my first MotoGP season and it is a great opportunity for me. I remember only three years ago I was competing in the Moto3 World Championship, and now here I am in the MotoGP class. It is an absolute pleasure. This winter, I prepared differently than previous years in order to gain muscle and get stronger. The MotoGP bike is so much more powerful. The braking is different… Everything requires more physical fitness, so I did motocross and road bike training, some cycling and running, and I feel ready. My main goal this season will be to advance and progress race by race, and enjoy myself in every single one of them.”

 

Raul Fernandez. Photo courtesy KTM Factory Racing.
Raul Fernandez. Photo courtesy KTM Factory Racing.

 

Remy Gardner: “I am thrilled to start my first season in the MotoGP class. This is the dream of every motorcycle racer and I cannot wait to get started. We already had a few tests in 2021 that were encouraging, so I am very excited to improve myself, continue to discover the bike, and be able to learn about this amazing class with so many talented riders.I am also looking forward to working again with Tech3, getting along with the team, and continuing the relationship with KTM. This is going to be a long,but interesting year. I know it won’t always be easy but I will always push, try and give the best of myself in order to get the best results we can without going too crazy. I will certainly take this season step by step, but I am very excited to start riding again.”

 

Remy Gardner. Photo courtesy KTM Factory Racing.
Remy Gardner. Photo courtesy KTM Factory Racing.

 

Francesco Guidotti, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing Team Manager: “It is always important to do better than the previous year. To do better we need more consistent results, more consistency in the top five and on the podium. We have to develop the bike to make the riders happy, to give them the right feeling and confidence to achieve these results. Of course, their position is an important one because they need to show the potential of the bike and the project. They have 2-3 years experience in this category now so maybe it is the right moment to use this experience. They have already won some races so the ability and the potential is there ,so we have to see it more regularly. In the last five years the results have been incredible; starting from zero like KTM did and what they achieved is unbelievable and we want to keep it going.”

Hervé Poncharal, Tech3 KTM Factory Racing Team Principal: “The new season is always an intense moment, exciting and emotional. 2022 is very special for us because we have the pleasure to welcome Remy Gardner and Raul Fernandez, who respectively finished first and second in the 2021 Moto2 World Championship.There has been a lot of work done this winter to prepare for the 2022 season, both on the bike and in the organization of the KTM MotoGP technical structure. The Tech3 KTM Factory Team has had a few changes of its own too. We are now impatient and ready to start. With two rookies, we don’t expect to win the championship, but our main target will be to win the Rookie of the Year title in the MotoGP class. We are hoping to do some strong finishes, Top 10 and why not Top 5? With riders like Remy and Raul, we have to dream high. Over the last years, rookies have reached podiums, so it can be us this year.”

Pit Beirer, KTM Motorsport Director: “2021 was the most successful motorsport season ever in our group. It is amazing what we have done in one year in the road racing paddock: winning the Moto3 world championship and the Moto2 world championship and finishing 6th in MotoGP. It is super-motivating for everything in the future. When you start a project like this in MotoGP you want to win a race one day and to say that sounds quite simple but to actually do it is such an incredible effort from so many people involved. We did it. It’s on paper, but we also had to learn it the hard way; you win one weekend in that class but the next weekend you are fighting to qualify for Q2 because it is just so tight. The target for us now is to be there consistently every weekend, get in that top five and fight for the podium at the end of season standings. That must be the goal for this season. I know it is a very high one because the other manufacturers have ambitious targets as well but we are strong now: we have the team, the base, the bike and we have the riders.”

Hubert Trunkenpolz, Member of the Executive Board, KTM CMO: “For the first time ever we crossed the revenue of two billion and it is another milestone for the company. A continuation of the years of growth. It is an unbelievable success story and we are extremely happy we could achieve it. On the other side when we take a look at motorsport in general we have achieved 21 titles and this is also another record and motorsport engagement is the most important marketing tool we have by far. For sure this incredible success in motorsport is firing-up the company’s revenues and the brand awareness and it is incredibly important. There were some amazing stories in 2021: Miguel’s podium streak, Brad’s win at home, Pedro Acosta, the Moto2 title fight. We cannot wait to see what will happen in 2022. Riders who know how to win races also know how to win championships. It is up to us now to give them the right material, the right structure, the right team and the right situation. Also, the right back-up from the factory. If everything comes together then the riders will be the ones helping all of us achieve our goals.”

MotoAmerica: TSE Racing Fielding Harry Truelove In Daytona 200

Harry Truelove (6), as seen during the 2021 British Supersport season. Photo courtesy Dynavolt Triumph.
Harry Truelove (6), as seen during the 2021 British Supersport season. Photo courtesy Dynavolt Triumph.

Harry Truelove joins TSE Racing

TSE Racing is excited to have Harry Truelove racing with them for the Daytona 200. Harry has been racing in the BSB Supersport class the past few years and has caught the interest of TSE, as well as the excitement of bringing an international rider to compete in the iconic Daytona 200.

Mark Stiles, Team Owner: “We are very excited to have Harry join our team for the Daytona 200. He had a pretty good season last year at BSB winning 3 races, we look forward to working with him and seeing what he can do at this event. The team knows how important the pit stops are, and we will give Harry the best opportunity we can to be fighting at the front.”

Harry Truelove: “I’m really excited to be racing the Daytona 200 with TSE Racing. It’s such a prestigious race and after speaking with the team I’m certain we’ll be able to fight for a good result. I’m extremely thankful for this opportunity and can’t wait to get started.”

TSE Racing will be coming in strong with the same crew from the previous season. Scott Jensen will again be taking the lead as crew chief, while Scotty Ryan from Öhlins USA will be there as their suspension technician.

Follow TSE Racing on their Instagram @tse_racing for updates and news from the event.

CSBK: TSN Planning Expanded Coverage In 2022

Action from the 2021 Liqui Moly Pro Sport Bike Championship with Christian Allard (69) leading Elliot Vieira (33), David MacKay (82), Jake LeClair (811), Philippe Masse (28), and Vincent Levillain (76). Photo by Damian Perieira, courtesy CSBK.
Action from the 2021 Liqui Moly Pro Sport Bike Championship with Christian Allard (69) leading Elliot Vieira (33), David MacKay (82), Jake LeClair (811), Philippe Masse (28), and Vincent Levillain (76) at Calabogie Motorsports Park. Photo by Damian Perieira, courtesy CSBK.

CSBK Announce Expanded TSN Coverage for 2022 Canadian Pro Nationals

Toronto, ON – The Sports Network, TSN, have announced expanded coverage for the Canadian Superbike National Championship (CSBK) during the 2022 National motorcycle road racing season. TSN will broadcast seventeen episodes of race action in 2022, the most extensive coverage since the National road race tour joined the network in 1995.

“This is a very exciting development for the series,” explains CSBK boss Colin Fraser. “The last two seasons have been complicated, but we have concentrated on the quality of our video coverage, and that has worked out well for the Championship. Now TSN has confirmed the strength of the series coverage with this expanded broadcast format for 2022.”

TSN is Canada’s sports leader and provides world-class content across the industry-leading platforms including five National television feeds, TSN direct, TSN.ca, and TSN radio stations across Canada. TSN is affiliated with ground-breaking American broadcaster ESPN, and TSN is the Canadian home to several major motorsports, including Formula One and NASCAR.

In 2022, TSN will broadcast every Pro Superbike feature race, as well as every race in the Liqui Moly Pro Sport Bike middleweight support category. This will be the first time that full race coverage for the Pro Sport Bike class will be broadcast on TSN.

TSN will broadcast two Pro Superbike races from each of the first three events at Grand Bend Motorplex, June 9-12, Calabogie Motorsports Park, July 8-10, and Atlantic Motorsport Park, July 21-24.

At the traditional CSBK series final at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park, August 12-14, the final three Championship Pro Superbike races will be broadcast. CSBK staged the first-ever series triple header at C.T.M.P., “old Mosport,” with International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) support in 2021.

At most 2022 CSBK National events, one Pro Superbike race will be recorded on the Saturday, and then the second on Sunday. At the final round at C.T.M.P., superbike qualifying will take place on Friday and there will be one Superbike race on Saturday and two on the final Sunday afternoon of the 2022 season.

Last season, Alex Dumas of Desmaures, QC, earned the Pro Superbike Championship and Canadian overall title for the MPG/FAST Riding School Suzuki Canada team. 19-year-old Dumas is the youngest Champion in the 42-year history of the CSBK Series, and also earned the Brooklin Cycle Racing Pro Rookie of the year Award.

2019 CSBK National number one Ben Young of Collingwood, ON, was second overall in 2021 with his Van Dolder’s Home Team BMW and fought for victory and the title with Dumas at the final 2021 round at Calabogie last September. Young’s CSBK effort took him the 2021 Championship with BMW’s in-house Motorrad Race Trophy series, and Young will compete aboard a newly approved M1000RR racer, his prize for overall Trophy series success.

The 2022 Liqui Moly Pro Sport Bike CSBK series will consist of two races at each National event, one on Saturday and one on Sunday. The eight race 2022 series will provide the most championship events in the history of the middleweight category, as well as the most video coverage.

The Pro Sport Bike category is famed for close competition at the front of the class, but last season “The Shaker,” Sebastien Tremblay of Laval, QC., dominated middleweight action. Tremblay won all four races aboard his Turcotte Performance Kawasaki ZX-6R Ninja, and his Montreal-area tuning shop supported several front runners in the Sport Bike category.

David MacKay of Stoney Creek, ON., was second overall in the 2022 Pro Sport Bike series points on another Ninja and will be looking forward to CSBK’s return to his home track of Grand Bend on Ontario’s “West Coast” for the series opener following a COVID-enforced two-year layoff.

ASBK Announces More Sponsors For 2022 Season

The Australian Superbike Championship is heading to Tasmania in 2021. Photo by Russell Colvin, courtesy ASBK.
The 2022 mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship will not be going to Tasmania in 2022. Photo by Russell Colvin, courtesy ASBK.

Yamaha Finance have buoyed their association with the R3 Cup by announcing their continued support of the fiercely competitive series in 2022. 

Regardless if your passion is land or marine based, Yamaha’s broad range of products is all about the experience. Yamaha Financial Services share and understand this passion.

The Yamaha Finance R3 Cup (YMF R3 Cup) was introduced to the Australian Superbike Championship (ASBK) in 2016 as a one-make series featuring the Yamaha R3 motorcycle. Modifications are limited and because all the bikes are similar, with race results are determined by a rider’s ability to race and set the bike up specifically to their needs.

Yamaha Finance representative Matt Ferry: “The evenness of the machinery in the Yamaha Finance R3 Cup places a premium on race-craft, which is why this category is such so exciting. It’s that kind of passion that we understand at Yamaha Finance.”

Motorcycling Australia (MA) CEO Peter Doyle: “Motorcycling Australia are extremely pleased to see Yamaha Finance once again come on board in support of the YMF R3 Cup. Since its introduction, the R3 Cup has provided a fun and affordable class platform for riders wishing to get into racing, as well as those hoping to progress their career.”

For more information on Yamaha Financial Services’ broad range of products go to https://www.yamaha-motor.com.au/buying/finance-and-insurance

mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship presented by Motul –  
2022 Calendar  

Round 1 Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, VIC 25 – 27 February
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup, OJC, SBK Masters

Round 2 Queensland Raceway, Ipswich QLD 18 – 20 March
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup, OJC, Sidecars

Round 3 Wakefield Park Raceway, Goulburn NSW 22 – 24 April
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup, OJC, Sidecars

Round 4 Hidden Valley Raceway, Darwin NT 17 – 19 June
* With Supercars – SBK Only

Round 5 Morgan Park Raceway, Warwick QLD 5 – 7 August
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup, OJC

Round 6 Symmons Plains Raceway – Launceston TAS 20 – 23 October
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup

Round 7 Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, Cowes VIC TBA – November
TBC

Round 8 The Bend Motorsport Park, Tailem Bend SA 2 – 4 December
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup, OJC

ASBK Night of Champions Dinner – The Bend 4 December

For more information and event details, see the official Championship website www.asbk.com.au

 

 

More, from another press release issued by ASBK:

The mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship, presented by Motul (ASBK) is pleased to announce that Dunlop has re-affirmed their support of the Supersport 300 class by once again signing on as the class sponsor for the 2022 season. 

The Dunlop Supersport 300 Championship is rightly considered as both an important step in the development of young riders and fantastic and exciting class in its own right.

Dunlop National Motorcycle & Motorsport Manager Robbie Bugden: “The closeness and excitement of the racing in the Dunlop Supersport 300 Championship is well known. Racing plays a big part in the development of our tyre technology for the public, but more than that, we believe in the spirit of competition, and nothing embodies that quite like motorcycle racing.”

Motorcycling Australia (MA) CEO Peter Doyle: “It’s extremely gratifying to see Dunlop’s continued support of ASBK. The Dunlop Supersport 300 Championship has become renowned for producing some of the closest and most exciting racing on the ASBK program. The emphasis on race craft, combined with its accessibility to junior competitors, has made Supersport 300 a very attractive category for young, up-and-coming riders.”

For more information on Dunlop’s range of motorcycle tyres go to http://www.dunloptyres.com.au/tyres/motorcycle-tyres/

mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship presented by Motul – 
2022 Calendar  

Round 1 Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, VIC 25 – 27 February
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup, OJC, SBK Masters

Round 2 Queensland Raceway, Ipswich QLD 18 – 20 March
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup, OJC, Sidecars

Round 3 Wakefield Park Raceway, Goulburn NSW 22 – 24 April
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup, OJC, Sidecars

Round 4 Hidden Valley Raceway, Darwin NT 17 – 19 June
* With Supercars – SBK Only

Round 5 Morgan Park Raceway, Warwick QLD 5 – 7 August
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup, OJC

Round 6 Symmons Plains Raceway – Launceston TAS 20 – 23 October
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup

Round 7 Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, Cowes VIC TBA – November
TBC

Round 8 The Bend Motorsport Park, Tailem Bend SA 2 – 4 December
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup, OJC

ASBK Night of Champions Dinner – The Bend 4 December

For more information on the Official ASBK test, visit the ASBK Championship website at www.asbk.com.au

 

 

More, from another press release issued by ASBK:

The mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship, presented by Motul (ASBK) is pleased to announce that Michelin has signed on as the title sponsor of the Supersport Championship for the 2022 season. 

Often affectionately described in the paddock as the “600s”, Supersport’s enduring appeal has been its ability to maintain costs at a manageable level, with bikes predominantly production-spec with limited modifications.

For Michelin, racing has been an integral and critical aspect of the company’s activities, serving not only as a marketing channel but also offering proof-of-concept for the company’s extensive R&D process.

Founded in 1889, the Michelin Group provides tyres to over 170 countries. The Michelin Group makes tyres locally for customers’ specific needs and road conditions in one of their 69 production facilities around the world.

Doug Sharp, Michelin Australia: “Michelin Australia is proud to support the Supersport Championship, a category which always puts on a great show and has also become a launching pad for riders to create overseas opportunities in WorldSBK, WorldSS and BSB. In recent years, we’ve seen the likes of Oli Bayliss, Tom Toparis, Max Stauffer and Broc Pearson show their talent in the Supersport category.

“We’re sure that 2022 will again deliver great racing and we are all looking forward to the first round of the 2022 ASBK Championship and the Michelin Supersport Championship.”

Motorcycling Australia (MA) CEO Peter Doyle: “Motorcycling Australia are excited to see Michelin throw their support behind Supersport. Supersport is well established as one of the jewel in the crown categories of ASBK, with many riders honing their craft and showing their potential in this fantastic category.”

To get the most out of your motorbike’s performance on the track, go to https://www.michelin.com.au/motorbike/browse-tyres/by-category/sports

mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship presented by Motul –   
2022 Calendar 

Round 1 Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, VIC 25 – 27 February
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup, OJC, SBK Masters

Round 2 Queensland Raceway, Ipswich QLD 18 – 20 March
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup, OJC, Sidecars

Round 3 Wakefield Park Raceway, Goulburn NSW 22 – 24 April
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup, OJC, Sidecars

Round 4 Hidden Valley Raceway, Darwin NT 17 – 19 June
* With Supercars – SBK Only

Round 5 Morgan Park Raceway, Warwick QLD 5 – 7 August
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup, OJC

Round 6 Symmons Plains Raceway – Launceston TAS 20 – 23 October
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup

Round 7 Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, Cowes VIC TBA – November
TBC

Round 8 The Bend Motorsport Park, Tailem Bend SA 2 – 4 December
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup, OJC

ASBK Night of Champions Dinner – The Bend 4 December

For more information on the Official ASBK test, visit the ASBK Championship website at www.asbk.com.au 

 

 

More, from another press release issued by ASBK:

The mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship (ASBK) is pleased to announce that Alpinestars has announced their continuing support of the Superbike class for the 2022 season.

Australian Superbike Championship (ASBK) bikes are fast, spectacular and sound incredible. The category is a big drawcard for fans as ASBK machinery is very similar to the ones that the public can purchase off the showroom floor.

Alpinestars – Scott Runciman: “Alpinestars are proud to be continuing their association with the Australian Superbike Championship. Over our journey, Alpinestars has outfitted countless world champions and we hope to continue in that tradition.

Motorcycling Australia (MA) CEO Peter Doyle: “Alpinestars have been a terrific supporter of the Australian Superbike Championship and it is extremely gratifying to see their continued involvement in our premier racing class in 2022. We’re pleased to once again see the Alpinestars Superbike Championship on our race calendar.”

“With Alpinestars support, we will once again be able to serve up some of the best Superbike racing anywhere in the world. It’s a Championship that we can all be very proud of.”

Serving the best in style and craftsmanship, you can find out more on the range of Alpinestars Australian merchandise at http://monzaimports.com.au/moto/catalogues/

mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship presented by Motul –   
2022 Calendar   

Round 1 Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, VIC 25 – 27 February
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup, OJC, SBK Masters

Round 2 Queensland Raceway, Ipswich QLD 18 – 20 March
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup, OJC, Sidecars

Round 3 Wakefield Park Raceway, Goulburn NSW 22 – 24 April
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup, OJC,

Round 4 Hidden Valley Raceway, Darwin NT 17 – 19 June
* With Supercars – SBK Only

Round 5 Morgan Park Raceway, Warwick QLD 5 – 7 August
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup, OJC

Round 6 Symmons Plains Raceway – Launceston TAS 20 – 23 October
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup

Round 7 Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, Cowes VIC TBA – November
TBC

Round 8 The Bend Motorsport Park, Tailem Bend SA 2 – 4 December
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup, OJC

ASBK Night of Champions Dinner – The Bend 4 December

For more information on the Official ASBK test, visit the ASBK Championship website at www.asbk.com.au 

 

 

 

More, from another press release issued by ASBK:

THE YAMAHA OCEANIA JUNIOR CUP READY TO RACE IN 2022!

Garry McCoy set to join as series coach in ‘22.

The mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship (ASBK) presented by Motul 2022 season gets underway this week with the official ASBK two-day test at Phillip Island.

For the Yamaha Oceania Junior Cup (OJC), the class of 2022 will have their first official hit out on the fantastic Yamaha R15 on the world-class Phillip Island Grand Prix circuit.

Yamaha returns for their fourth year supporting the OJC, and for Matt Ferry, Division Manager Sales & Marketing, Yamaha Motor Australia, the OJC answers the need for a development series that just works. “Yamaha Motor Australia is proud to be involved in the OJC- R15 Cup as it has proven to be a successful and needed introduction to road racing at an affordable level. We’ve seen riders progress from their first on-track experience through to racing professional classes both here in Australia and on the world stage.  We at Yamaha Motor Australia are passionate around racing and we think the OJC represents the perfect entry-level racing into the ASBK, provides a friendly and safe environment for riders and families as well as develop and nurture future national and international champions.”

Riders in the OJC will benefit from a wealth of experience this season, with former 500cc, MotoGP and  World Superbike racer Garry McCoy set to come on board as the series coach for 2022.

“There’s a lot of things I’ve got to give, so I’m looking forward to it,” said McCoy.

McCoy has already been keeping in the development game by coaching junior competitors at Morgan Park and even had the opportunity to coach young gun, Joel Kelso, who will make his debut in the Moto3 class in 2022.

The OJC allows competitors to learn fundamental technical aspects such as suspension set-up and tyre settings. On this front, McCoy is confident the series with provide an ideal grounding for riders wishing to progress through the ranks.

“It’s great to have a focus on suspension, a bit of data and working with your tyres. Riders will have to learn to ride on worn tyres for Friday sessions. You don’t learn much by throwing new tyres on the bike every session.” said McCoy.

With the OJC now in its fourth season, McCoy says he will be approaching his role as coach as an open book – take things one-step at a time and see where the riders are currently at and how they will evolve.

“Hopefully I’ll be able to give advice not just on set-up, but from my experience racing oversees and racing with a limited budget.”

McCoy also believes he will have some sage-like advice to offer young riders on off-track necessities, such as dealing with the media and other competitors.

“It’s not about how to win them over, but how to put them out of your mind, keep to yourself and do your own thing,” he said.

“I really enjoy working with kids. They’re all very different in that some want to listen and some don’t, but that’s all part of growing up. At the end of the day, you want to put a smile on their faces.”

Notwithstanding the youth of the field, for many newcomers to the OJC, it has been a long path to the 12 corners of the Phillip Island circuit. Without help from parents, and supporters, this would not be possible.

The Oceania Junior Cup would not be possible without the outstanding support of the series sponsors, rider supporters (mum and dad!) and on-the-ground volunteers and staff making this terrific and important development series take place.

Andrew Smart from Ricondi, whose company supplies the riders with leathers, gloves, boots, compression wear and uniforms, continuing the Australian company’s support into a fourth year was an easy decision. “It’s humbling to have an Aussie brand involved in this important series. We want to thank all those who have supported us just as we have supported the riders. Not only have we sponsored the riders and taught them about what our products can do to protect them, so too have they taught us and helped develop our products- particularly our suits- to better suit the young riders as they mature.”

Dunlop Australia – New Zealand are supporting the OJC in 2022 in a multitude of ways. Typically, tyre sponsorship extends as far as product supply and support, but for Dunlop Motorsport Manager Robbie Bugden, his racing experience will be put to great use: “I’m looking forward to not only supporting the category but also focussing helping these rookie racers make the most of our products. For me, that means passing on my knowledge about tyres; choices, construction, temperature, pressures and so on. I can’t wait to get started…”

The Winton Circuit in Northeast Victoria will be the “Home of the OJC” in 2022 with the circuit once again providing the riders with a training event and track time as well as logistic and storage support in 2022. Rowan Harmon, events Manager at Winton Motor Raceway: “The OJC is a terrific program for the Junior Rider looking to progress their career, be it domestically or overseas, and Winton Motor Raceway is proud to be chosen to support this program”.

SHARK helmets join the OJC in 2022 and of course safety is their focus, with many elements learned from racing incorporated into the road helmet range. For SHARK Australia representative Joel Ryan, “We’re proud to be providing the OJC field with helmets that are the same FIM approved helmet in use in all GP classes. The safety of the riders is the highest priority to everyone involved, and SHARK Helmets are pleased to be doing what we can to contribute to this series and it’s genuinely exciting to be involved with the next generation of Australian racing stars.”

One of the goals of the OJC is to produce MotoGP stars of the future and having Öhlins Racing advanced suspension technology on board in 2022 will see this major supplier of MotoGP suspension products and expertise support the OJC paddock with the best possible suspension package for the Yamaha R15s.

The ideal way to ensure the racing Yamaha R15 bikes are getting the ideal lubricants is to use the products “Made for Yamaha, by Yamaha” and the OJC welcomes Yamalube as the official lubricant supplier for the series in 2022.

The OJC has a massive learning curve for rookie riders and thanks to Mototrack Accessories, every rider will have use of a SpeedAngle GPS Lap Timer with Lean Angle Measurement and Data Logging. For Steve Thibou at Mototrack Accessories, it’s an opportunity to help OJC riders be their best: “It’s important to my business to show that Speed Angle is more than a lap timer- it’s a device that can help riders of all standards improve. For me personally, it’s important to support the youth of the sport as they progress.”

Darren Webb, whose company Webb Plastics supplies both the race screens for the bikes and the trophies for the winners, supporting the OJC is a personal decision: “Essentially we are involved in the OJC to invest in the future of Australian Motorcycle racing. From a commercial standpoint, making both the race screens and the trophies for the series shows the versatility and capabilities of our company.”

D.I.D brand drive chains are all manufactured in Kaga, Ishikawa prefecture, Japan, and supplied through motorcycle dealers worldwide. In 2022 D.I.D. will join the OJC paddock, offering outstanding performance for all riders.

Without this extensive list of supporters and sponsors, the OJC would not be the cost-effective and competitive category it is today. With an oversubscribed entry list and a number of riders progressing to other classes, it’s a series that Motorcycling Australia (MA) CEO Peter Doyle is proud of: “The OJC is an important development class for Motorcycling in Australia. In just four years of existence, some 19 riders have progressed to overseas racing, with many others continuing their careers in Australia.

“In this short time, we’ve been pleasantly surprised at just how good the series is in terms of training and developing riders and I can personally say I have been very, very pleased to see how good the racing is as well!

“As a cost-effective and valuable series, we cannot thank the sponsors enough. Their help makes the OJC affordable to most every race family in Australia and I want to thank all involved for their efforts and am really looking forward to this coming season.”

The 2022 OJC Series kicks off this week with the two-day Phillip Island test ahead of Round one at the same venue 25-27 February, 2022.

For more information and event details, see the official Championship website www.asbk.com.au

 

 

More, from another press release issued by ASBK:

The mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship (ASBK) presented by Motul is proud to announce that presenting rights holders and lubricant specialists Motul are set to return in 2022. 

Motul has placed motorsport as its prime creative and ingenious laboratory since it first began appearing in motorsport disciplines in the 1950s. This involvement and dedication to excellence has seen Motul work with some of the finest teams and riders in history.

For Brenden Stoeckert, General Manager Link International – Motul Distributor Australia, the company’s long-term commitment to racing makes sponsorship of ASBK a logical decision: “Motul has been involved in racing via various partnerships for a long time and this unbroken relationship with racing has established and maintained the brand as a global motorsport power reference it is today.”

“We are pleased to be the presenting rights sponsor again in 2022 and wish all involved the very best.”

Motorcycling Australia (MA) CEO Peter Doyle: “Motul have been an important supporter of motorcycle racing in Australia and having them return as presenting rights sponsor in 2022 is an important element in the ongoing success of ASBK.”

“In 2022, we are looking forward to a full season of competitive and entertaining racing and the support of our sponsors is key to making this happen. I want to thank Motul for their support on behalf of not only Motorcycling Australia but all fans and stakeholders.”

mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship presented by Motul –  2022 Calendar 

Round 1 Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, VIC 25 – 27 February
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup, OJC, SBK Masters

Round 2 Queensland Raceway, Ipswich QLD 18 – 20 March
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup, OJC, Sidecars

Round 3 Wakefield Park Raceway, Goulburn NSW 22 – 24 April
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup, OJC, Sidecars

Round 4 Hidden Valley Raceway, Darwin NT 17 – 19 June
* With Supercars – SBK Only

Round 5 Morgan Park Raceway, Warwick QLD 5 – 7 August
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup, OJC

Round 6 Symmons Plains Raceway – Launceston TAS 20 – 23 October
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup

Round 7 Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, Cowes VIC TBA – November
TBC

Round 8 The Bend Motorsport Park, Tailem Bend SA 2 – 4 December
SBK, SSPT, SS300, R3 Cup, OJC

ASBK Night of Champions Dinner – The Bend 4 December

For more information and event details, see the official Championship website www.asbk.com.au

AHRMA Classic MotoFest In The Heartland Scheduled May 27-29

AHRMA racers Gabriel Figueroa (425G) and James-Derek Mayo (411) in action at Heartland Motorsports Park in 2021. Photo by etechphoto.com, courtesy AHRMA.
AHRMA racers Gabriel Figueroa (425G) and James-Derek Mayo (411) in action at Heartland Motorsports Park in 2021. Photo by etechphoto.com, courtesy AHRMA.

AHRMA Classic MotoFest™ Brings Vintage Bikes to Topeka Kansas May 27-29

Heartland Motorsports Park to be host site of AHRMA Classic MotoFest™ in the Heartland

(Elora, Tennessee) – The American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association (AHRMA) in association with Antique Motorcycle Club of America (AMCA) and Laroque Motorsports confirmed it will host the AHRMA Classic MotoFest™ at Heartland Motorsports Park (HMP) in Topeka, Kansas.

The event is May 27-29, 2022, and will feature a wide array of vintage and modern, two and three-wheel action including road racing, motocross, cross country, flat track, trials and drag racing.

The MotoFest, while focused on the planned competition, will include a swap meet, bike show, cycle corral, and other family friendly activities.

With its mission of restoring and racing on and off-road vintage motorcycles while appealing to a diverse audience, it is an event that fits HMP. HMP is one of the finest, multi-purpose racing and entertainment destinations in the US. Located on the south side of Topeka, KS, the facility features a championship NHRA-sanctioned 1/4-mile drag strip, and a 2.5-mile road course. In addition, a large off-road area has been designated for the construction of a custom motocross track and 5-mile forested cross-country track as well as some technical trials zones specifically for this event.

“The AHRMA Classic MotoFest™ in the Heartland is a perfect opportunity for motorsports fans to see a variety of disciplines over one weekend”, said Travis Hilton, Track Manager for Heartland Motorsports Park. “With a facility as diverse as ours, AHRMA’s event utilizing the many different courses is phenomenal.  Spectators will certainly have their ticket’s worth of excitement seeing many different types of competition over the May 27-29th weekend. In addition to competition, entertainment options will be available for all in the form of a premiere bike show, widespread swap meet, and family friendly activities.   The 2022 AHRMA Classic MotoFest™ in the Heartland event will be a chance for new and old attendees to talk about for years—or at least until 2023!”

“We’re really excited to bring such a big variety of what AHRMA is all about to motorcycle fans in the Midwest,” said Brian Larrabure, AHRMA’s Chairman of the Board.  “Plus, the central location of HMP means we’ll attract AHRMA competitors from all over the country.”

AHRMA officials said the HMP event is a chance for racers to compete on and off-road during the same weekend.

More info to come about fan activities, celebrations and more for the entire family to enjoy. For general questions contact the AHRMA Classic MotoFest™ in the Heartland event coordinator Jim Doyle at [email protected].

ABOUT HEARTLAND:

Heartland Motorsports Park stands out as one of the world’s finest, multi-purpose racing and entertainment destinations. Located on the south side of Topeka, KS, the facility covers approximately 650 acres and provides ample room for its many racing and motorsports venues.

First opened in 1989, today’s facility features a championship, NHRA-sanctioned 1/4-mile drag strip, four-level sponsor-suite tower, a 2.5-mile road course with four different configurations, a 22-acre asphalt pad for autocross and drift events and a motocross track designed to host AHRMA type events.

The 23-acre paddock area features a mix of asphalt parking and access roads as well as grass parking and camping areas for car shows, swap meets and other large footprint events.

ABOUT AHRMA:

AHRMA (American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to preserving, restoring, and competing on historic motorcycles. With more than 3,000 members, AHRMA is the leading historic motorcycle racing group in North America and one of the largest in the world. The association’s enthusiastic membership reflects this country’s strong interest in classic bikes.

MotoAmerica: $150,000 Raised For Roadracing World Action Fund

A MotoAmerica Junior Cup racer out of control and heading toward Alpina-brand inflatable safety barriers. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
A MotoAmerica Junior Cup racer out of control and heading toward Alpina-brand inflatable safety barriers. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.

MotoAmerica/Roadracing World Action Fund Raised Close To $150,000 In 2021

 

“Rainey’s Ride To The Races,” Dunlop ECSTAR 2 Up Rides And More Contributed To Fund That Promotes Motorcycle Racing Safety And Use Of Soft Barriers

IRVINE, CA (January 26, 2022) – MotoAmerica, North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series, is proud of its fans and friends who donated nearly $150,000 to the Roadracing World Action Fund over the course of the 2021 racing season.

A lot of the money for the Roadracing World Action Fund, the 501(c)3 non-profit organization that promotes motorcycle racing safety and the use of inflatable soft barriers at racing events, was raised on a single weekend at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca round of the MotoAmerica Series last July with three individuals donating the funds after seeing the soft barriers made by Airfence and Alpina brands in use.

A bonus to the WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca round of the series was “Rainey’s Ride To The Races,” a charity ride through the Monterey Peninsula that culminated at the track with a Q&A bench-racing session with three-time World Champion and MotoAmerica President Wayne Rainey and four-time World Champion Eddie Lawson, who also participated in the ride.

The largest of the donations from the weekend came from Medallia’s President and CEO Leslie Stretch, the sponsor of the 2022 MotoAmerica Medallia Superbike Series contributing $100,000 to the cause.

“For me it’s very simple,” Stretch said. “Every track I go to where I know that everything has been done for the safety of the riders, I exponentially enjoy going there. All sponsors should allocate part of their investment to ensure that is the case. It results in happier spectators, more focused competitors, and happier sponsors all around. It’s just the right thing.”

Another who contributed mightily to the fund was Robert Talbott, the founder of Talbott Vineyards and the owner of the Moto Talbott Museum in Carmel Valley, California. Talbott donated $20,000.

“When I realized that the Roadracing World Action Fund was a 501(c)3, I was pretty excited,” Talbott said. “It was something different than our normal donations. I’ve crashed and hurt myself, broken ribs, and various things and I understand how this could be an incredible life saver. I love this, and that there can actually be something to be done to keep riders safe… Riding motorcycles is a defensive hobby, sport, love, profession, and I absolutely am committed to riding. I have a lot of CHP (California Highway Patrol) buddy friends who ride and I’ve also got Hell’s Angels buddy friends. I love people who ride, and their safety is paramount. I want to ride long, but I want to ride safe. I love the fact that we can make a difference to keep riders safe. I’ve seen a lot of races and I’ve seen a lot of crashes and here is something we can be part of, and I’m thrilled. I have such respect for Wayne (Rainey) and if he’s channeling it, pushing it, I want to help him. This is really, really a neat thing. So many of the causes today don’t make the sense that this did to me. This is the right thing to do and my wife, Vivian, and I both believe it in.”

The Roadracing World Action Fund had a successful year in 2021 beyond the Laguna Seca weekend with Chris Ulrich’s Dunlop and ECSTAR-sponsored Two Up rides accounting for an additional $13,000 in donations and the MotoAmerica fines program bringing in $4000.

“I think I speak for everyone in our paddock when I say thank you to all those who contributed donations,” said MotoAmerica President Wayne Rainey. “Leslie (Stretch) feels strongly about the fund and what it does to help ensure the safety of our racers and he really stepped up to help financially. Robb (Talbott) and his wife, Vivian, saw first-hand how well the Airfence and Alpina soft barriers work and realized what a lifesaver it is for our racers, and they were the first to donate. All of them liked what they saw and decided to help, and their donations to the Roadracing World Action Fund will certainly help in the effort to purchase more Air Fence.”

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.

About the Roadracing World Action Fund

The Roadracing World Action Fund – a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization – began back in 2001 as a grassroots movement to improve racetrack safety for motorcycle racers and riders.  At the time, hay bales or stacks of tires were sometimes placed in front of concrete walls for rider protection in case of a crash. A far better solution for rider safety existed – inflatable soft barriers which absorb the energy of a crash. Soft barriers – made by Airfence or Alpina – can allow racers to often walk away from a crash which in the past might have caused catastrophic injury, or even death.

The Roadracing World Action Fund gained the support of the motorcycle community, as racers, riders, family and friends, motorcycle businesses, and racing organizations and racetracks helped to make use of soft barriers the standard, rather than the exception, for motorcycle races and track days at racetracks across the nation. Now, from Laguna to Daytona, Motorsports Ranch to VIR, Auto Club Speedway to Blackhawk Farms, and many more, soft barriers are deployed more frequently and in greater quantities than ever before, as the Roadracing World Action Fund continues its mission of helping prevent racetrack injuries through motorcycle road racing safety education.

FIM MiniGP Japan Starting In 2022

Pablo Olivares-Rodriguez (46), Izan Rodriguez-Alvarez (44), Josh O'Brien (22, behind Rodriguez-Alvarez), Cristian Borrelli (24), and others battle for the lead of a MiniGP World Final race at Valencia. Rodriguez-Alvarez won every race Thursday and the inaugural MiniGP World Series Championship. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Pablo Olivares-Rodriguez (46), Izan Rodriguez-Alvarez (44), Josh O'Brien (22, behind Rodriguez-Alvarez), and Cristian Borrelli (24) battle for the lead of an FIM MiniGP World Final race at Valencia in 2021. Photo courtesy Dorna.

FIM MiniGP Japan Series to begin in 2022

Another Cup joins the newest path on the Road to MotoGP™ 

Wednesday, 26 January 2022

The FIM MiniGP Japan Series has become the newest Cup to enter the FIM MiniGP World Series, with competition set to start in 2022. Japan joins Australia, Austria, Indonesia and Qatar as new additions for this season, adding to the 10 Series that began in 2021: Alpe Adria, France, Ireland, Italy, Malaysia, the Netherlands, North America, Portugal, Spain and the UK.

The FIM MiniGP World Series is the first step on the Road to MotoGP™, designed to create an equal platform for young riders worldwide. Japan is already a vital presence in the motorcycle market and in motorcycle racing, and the FIM MiniGP Japan Series will ensure an economically viable and equal environment for young riders looking to begin their careers in racing.

As ever, the best riders will qualify for the FIM MiniGP World Final alongside the top riders from each Series, with the possibility of promotions up for grabs on the Road to MotoGP™.

Harley-Davidson Introduces King Of The Baggers-Inspired Models

Harley-Davidson's MotoAmerica King Of The Baggers-inspired 2022-model Road Glide ST (left) and an accessorized Road Glide ST (right). Photo courtesy Harley-Davidson.
Harley-Davidson's MotoAmerica King Of The Baggers-inspired 2022-model Road Glide ST (left) and an accessorized Road Glide ST (right). Photo courtesy Harley-Davidson.
HARLEY-DAVIDSON REVEALS POWERFUL NEW GRAND AMERICAN TOURING,
CRUISER AND CVO MOTORCYCLES

 

New Models Highlight Thrilling Performance of Milwaukee-Eight 117 V-Twin

MILWAUKEE, WI (January 26, 2022) – Harley-Davidson adds performance and factory-custom style to its 2022 motorcycle line with the reveal of eight new models, each powered by the Milwaukee-Eight® 117, the most-powerful factory-installed engine offered by Harley-Davidson. New models include the Street Glide® ST and Road Glide® ST in the Grand American Touring line, the more powerful Low Rider® S, and the new Low Rider ST® Cruiser models, and four super-premium models from Harley-Davidson® Custom Vehicle Operations™ (CVO™).

“As part of our focus on stronghold segments, including Grand American Touring and Cruisier, the 2022 product line is designed for power and performance. Each of these new models feature the unrivalled power of the Milwaukee-Eight 117, for those riders who want nothing but the biggest and the best, building on our position as the most desirable motorcycle brand in the world,” said Jochen Zeitz, Chairman, President and CEO, Harley-Davidson.

Street Glide ST & Road Glide ST

Harley-Davidson elevates bagger performance and brings the purposeful style of the championship winning MotoAmerica King of the Baggers race bikes to the street with the introduction of the Street Glide® ST and Road Glide® ST models. These hot rod baggers combine the V-Twin muscle of the Milwaukee-Eight 117 powertrain with new dark and bronze finishes. For riders who want to strafe corners in comfort, the STs feature the complete suite of Harley-Davidson Grand American Touring features including Reflex™ linked Brembo® brakes with ABS, Boom!™ Box GTS infotainment system with color touch screen and navigation, cruise control and Daymaker® LED headlamps. The Street Glide ST features the iconic Harley-Davidson batwing fairing, while the Road Glide ST rolls with an aerodynamic frame-mounted sharknose fairing with dual headlamps.

 

Harley-Davidson's 2022-model Low Rider ST (left) and Low Rider S (right). Photo courtesy Harley-Davidson.
Harley-Davidson’s 2022-model Low Rider ST (left) and Low Rider S (right). Photo courtesy Harley-Davidson.

 

Low Rider S & Low Rider ST

The Low Rider S and new Low Rider ST models offer the taut handling performance of the Harley-Davidson® Softail® chassis and the V-Twin muscle of a Milwaukee-Eight® 117 powertrain.

“Our customers truly inspire us and the Low Rider ST was born from seeing the incredible builds at motorcycle shows around the world,” said Brad Richards, Harley-Davidson Vice President of Design. “We took the iconic Motor Company design from the Eighties and gave it a new identity with a modern echo. Add the Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine, a taller suspension and raised saddlebags and the Low Rider ST delivers both a dynamic visual package as well as a dramatic performance punch.”

The Low Rider S model is a performance cruiser kingpin designed for the rider seeking unapologetic power. The new Low Rider ST model offers the versatility of hard bags and a new frame-mounted fairing, plus an available Harley-Davidson Audio system powered by Rockford Fosgate.

Harley-Davidson Custom Vehicle Operations (CVO)

Premium limited-production factory custom models from Harley-Davidson® Custom Vehicle Operations™ (CVO™) offer the most-discerning rider a very special motorcycle designed to represent the pinnacle of style and design from the world’s most-desirable motorcycle brand. Exclusive and hand-crafted paint and designs are executed to a level of intricate quality that is unmatched in the motorcycle and automotive categories. Each is powered by a Milwaukee-Eight 117 powertrain. Other standard features include a premium Harley-Davidson® Audio powered by Rockford Fosgate® system, a Boom!™ Audio 30K Bluetooth® Helmet Headset, and Cornering Rider Safety Enhancements by Harley-Davidson, technology designed to enhance rider confidence during unexpected situations or poor road conditions. Each CVO model offers all-new paint options for 2022.

 

A 2022-model Harley-Davidson CVO Street Glide. Photo courtesy Harley-Davidson.
A 2022-model Harley-Davidson CVO Street Glide. Photo courtesy Harley-Davidson.

 

  • CVO Street Glide Model is a super-premium bagger for the rider who rolls loud and proud. The classic silhouette of the batwing fairing topped with jaw-dropping paint and finish details, premium audio and the pavement-peeling power of the Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine make this one outrageous bike.
  • CVO Road Glide Model is designed for the rider who wants to run out front behind its distinctive dual LED headlamps, frame-mounted shark nose fairing and the unrelenting performance of the Milwaukee-Eight 117 powertrain. Powerhouse audio, an exclusive 21-inch front wheel, fabulous custom paint and extraordinary attention to detail complete this very desirable bike.
  • CVO Road Glide Limited Model is loaded with luxury and long-haul comfort, head-turning style and power that always satisfies. Premium audio, heated seats and grips, and the aerodynamic Road Glide model shark nose fairing make this motorcycle the ultimate Harley-Davison Touring machine.
  • CVO Tri Glide Model is a super-premium trike offering distinctive style, powerful performance and long-haul touring capability plus the added confidence of a third wheel. The CVO Tri Glide is loaded with premium audio, luxurious comfort features and an astounding finish and attention to detail, on a chassis designed from the wheels up as a trike.

Cornering Rider Safety Enhancements by Harley-Davidson

Standard on CVO models and an option for all Grand American Touring models, including the Street Glide ST and Road Glide ST models, Cornering Rider Safety Enhancements by Harley-Davidson is a collection of technologies designed to assist the rider in maintaining the rider’s intended path through a curve. This technology package provides the following enhancements:

  • Cornering Electronically Linked Brakes
  • Cornering-ABS
  • Cornering-Traction Control with modes
  • Drag Torque Slip Control
  • Vehicle Hold Control
  • Tire Pressure Monitoring (TPMS)

Harley-Davidson stands for the timeless pursuit of adventure and freedom for the soul. Go to H-D.com to learn more about the complete line of 2022 Harley-Davidson motorcycles, gear, accessories and more.

 

 

About Harley-Davidson 

Harley-Davidson, Inc. is the parent company of Harley-Davidson Motor Company and Harley-Davidson Financial Services. Our vision: Building our legend and leading our industry through innovation, evolution and emotion. Our mission: More than building machines, we stand for the timeless pursuit of adventure. Freedom for the soul. Since 1903, Harley-Davidson has defined motorcycle culture with an expanding range of leading-edge, distinctive and customizable motorcycles in addition to riding experiences and exceptional motorcycle accessories, riding gear and apparel. Harley-Davidson Financial Services provides financing, insurance and other programs to help get Harley-Davidson riders on the road. Learn more at www.harley-davidson.com.

 

MotoGP: Marc Marquez Confirmed For Pre-Season Test At Sepang

Marc Marquez (93) riding a Honda RC213V-S at Algarve International Circuit, in Portimao, Portugal. Photo courtesy Repsol Honda.
Marc Marquez (93) riding a Honda RC213V-S at Algarve International Circuit, in Portimao, Portugal. Photo courtesy Repsol Honda.

Repsol Honda Team confirm Marc Marquez for Sepang Test

Marc Marquez has been cleared to make his on-track return with the new Honda RC213V and the Repsol Honda Team at the Sepang Test on February 05, 2022.

Throughout the winter Marquez has had continual medical checks and consultations to monitor his diplopia. In recent weeks the improvements in his condition saw his medical team deem his recovery sufficient to return to training on two wheels. The #93 first returned to the motocross track before trying the Honda RC213V-S in Portimao and a Honda CBR600RR in Aragon.

Last Monday, January 24, Marquez underwent another medical check which reconfirmed that the treatment has been a complete success and the eight-time World Champion is in a suitable condition to ride a MotoGP bike.

Therefore, it has been decided that Marquez will start his 2022 campaign at the first official MotoGP Test in Sepang before heading to Mandalika, Indonesia the following week. This will be Marquez’s first time back on a MotoGP machine since winning the 2021 Emilia Romagna GP ahead of Pol Espargaro.

The Repsol Honda Team will head to the first test of the new season at full strength with Marquez alongside Pol Espargaro, who enters his second year with the team.

SFLminiGP Creates Path For Youths To Move Up To Full-Size Tracks

SFLminiGP products Julian Correa (121) and Avery Dreher (99). Photo by Scott Odell, courtesy SFLminiGP.
SFLminiGP products Julian Correa (121) and Avery Dreher (99). Photo by Scott Odell, courtesy SFLminiGP.

Introducing the SFLminiGP Bridge Program

 

THE CHALLENGE:

As the Mini Moto industry continues to steadily grow, there is a need to have minors transition safely to larger tracks. Parental concerns have limited options available to them when their child is ready to transition to a larger displacement motorcycle. There is a great risk to minors who ride larger tracks, and an accident with a larger cc motorcycle could have serious consequences.

 

 

THE OBSTACLE:

Most track day organizations are unwilling to create a 400cc & under class because it would be adding another rider category. The fear of lower attendance to their events due to less riding time for other classes over the importance of safety is a major factor for them.

 

PROPOSED SOLUTION:

SFLMINIGP has always had the business policy of removing the excuses to get more riders on the track. As we enter our 6th year operating in Florida, a lot of our young riders; and older riders for that matter; are becoming more successful on the racetrack and want to transition onto the bigger venues. SFLminiGP will now expand its series to a handful of large venue track days. There is a unique opportunity to provide qualified minors or adults a format where they can safely transition to a large venue via “The Bridge Program.” The structure would be as so:

 

·       Two (3) 20 Min Sessions (Lap times designate what group you are in)

o   1st session is for Beginner

o   2nd session is for Novice Riders

o   3rd  session is for Coaches and Advanced Riders

·       Motorcycles accepted for this event must be under 400ccs such as:

o   Moriwaki MD250H

o   Honda NSF250R

o   Tiandra 300s

o   Aprilia/Ohvale RS250SP

o   Kawasaki Ninja 400/300

o   Yamaha R3

o   Honda CBR 250/300

 

THE BENEFITS:

1.     Safety, Safety, Safety for the riders, tracks and operators

2.     Participants will learn the rules and regulations of the larger venues. There is a difference in approach from riding on a local kart track to being at a major facility. They will be prepared to enter race events such as Pan American Superbike, WERA, CCS and MotoAmerica

3.     All riders are classified by lap times and will not need to worry about larger displacement motorcycles passing at much higher rates of speed

4.     Coaching will be available to learn how to ride on a larger track vs the riding styles of kart tracks

 

SUPPORT:

·       Local vendors will be available with rental motorcycles and gear to help get more riders on the track for these specified events

·       Ensuring minors meet minimum eligibility requirements to responsibly ride on the track

·       Making certain that Bridge participants adhere to paddock rules

·       Code of conduct and professionalism will be required to participate

 

Who Can Participate:

·       Minimum Age is 12 yrs old

o   Important note: Children 12-15 must be pre-approved by the Bridge Program prior to the event by either submitting supporting documentation from a MiniGP Location or resume with proper and verifiable references.

·       Not just for kids…anyone looking for safe track time on bikes with 400cc or less

·       No 10” or 12” wheel sized motorcycles allowed

 

SCHEDULE:

All Events will be held at Jennings GP in Jennings, FL

·       April 28 & 29 (Thursday and Friday prior to the SFLMINIGP Round 3 at Gainesville Raceway)

·       June 2 & 3 (Thursday and Friday prior to the SFLMINIGP Round 5 at Bushnell Motorsports Park

·       November 3 & 4 (Thursday and Friday prior to the SFLMINIGP National Round at Bushnell Motorsports Park)

 

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