What happens when our MotoGP riders go head to head with Suzuki’s Endurance riders?! Who will win the quiz? @MotoGP #SUZUKing #AlexRins #JoanMir #SylvainGuintoli #GreggBlack #XavierSimeon
© , Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.
Ducati Certified As “Top Employer” In Italy For Eighth Consecutive Year
Ducati is Top Employer Italy 2022
Ducati certified as Top Employer Italy 2022 for the eighth consecutive year
The Bologna-based motorcycle manufacturer continues to work effectively to promote the value and well-being of its employees
Thanks to the management and initiatives in the Human Resources sector, the company has been able to maintain high its corporate results
Borgo Panigale, Bologna – Ducati has met the highest quality standards to be awarded the Top Employer Italy certification for the eighth year in a row. Despite the difficult challenges posed by the pandemic, the Bologna-based motorcycle manufacturer was able to offer its employees safe and excellent working conditions. These lay, on the one hand, in a functioning human resources strategy with people at the center, and, on the other hand, also in crisis management to deal with the emergency by a Covid-19 Task Force set up for this purpose, in which the trade unions are involved in addition to many areas of the company.
The Top Employer certification is an official recognition that is issued by the Top Employers Institute after a long evaluation process in which HR management practices and strategies are analysed, with particular attention to working conditions, training and growth of the personnel, family and social needs of employees.
Ducati is constantly committed to improving and optimizing its best practices in the field of Human Resources. This year, in addition to the efficient smart working organizational model, the enhancement of the increasingly heterogeneous and inclusive working environment, participation in environmental sustainability initiatives and projects, and investment in the digital training of its employees have all contributed to maintaining high company results.
“Receiving the prestigious Top Employer award for the eighth consecutive year is not only a great satisfaction, but a confirmation of the progress made in recent years and a demonstration of Ducati’s ability and readiness to react in the face of complexities”, said Sebastian Patta, Ducati Human Resources Director. “The protection and safety measures we have adopted so far have proved to be functional and efficient and these, combined with the policies implemented by our Human Resources and the dedication of our collaborators, have allowed Ducati to conclude 2021 with a sales record, registering the best year ever. Our employees are the real engine of the company and attention to those who dedicate themselves every day to its success with diligence, performance and commitment is fundamental for us. Therefore our thanks go first and foremost to the workforce of Ducati who give our company their professionalism, enthusiasm and passion for what they do”.
All information on the Top Employers Institute and the Top Employers Certification is available on the website www.top-employers.com
Moto2: American Racing Team Officially Introduced In California
American Racing Team officially introduced its riders for the 2022 FIM Moto2 World Championship, Cameron Beaubier and Sean Dylan Kelly, and their Triumph-powered Kalex motorcycles in an event held at a multi-million-dollar home in Southern California Tuesday, January 18.
The event was emceed by part-time reality TV star and full-time motorcycle enthusiast Barry Weiss and by American Racing Team owners Eitan Butbul and Avner Kass along with Team Director John “Hopper” Hopkins.
The event was also attended by motorcycle industry figures, including Mike Buckley, Senior Vice-President Sales, Marketing, and R&D at Dunlop Motorcycle Tires.
“This thing is bigger than I thought it would be,” said Beaubier, who just got married in December. “It’s pretty cool, and it’s pretty special having people from the American Racing Team, from MotoAmerica, from Dunlop, from Roadracing World, a lot of people who have helped me along the way and want to see us succeed over there. It’s a pretty cool evening.
“Eitan and Hopper said some pretty nice things about me, and I think it’s really cool with what they’re doing with the American Racing Academy and what they’re doing for American road racing on the world stage. It’s pretty special.”
Beaubier’s new rookie teammate Kelly just returned to America in December after spending more than a month traveling around Europe hitting track days on five different Grand Prix tracks on his new Kalex. The Florida resident then wrapped up his early education by being ninth-fastest at a multi-team test at Jerez in late-November.
“The bike, we all know it has a stiffer chassis, and that’s a game changer,” said Kelly, who won the 2021 MotoAmerica Supersport Championship on a Team M4 ECSTAR Suzuki GSX-R600. “It makes it so much different how you have to ride it, and it makes the limit that much higher. At the end of the day, that bike was made to race. On that bike, you go faster, then you go faster, then you go faster until you’re not and you’re on the floor. That’s what makes them so quick and so hard to ride. But it’s an incredible machine.”
Hopkins declared Beaubier a Championship contender and Kelly a potential Moto2 Rookie of the Year.
After a quick stop Thursday at Chuckwalla Valley Raceway for some photo and video work, American Racing Team will resume testing in Europe in February.
AHRMA Announces Advanced Riding Workshops
AHRMA announces 2022 Advanced Riding Technique Workshops
(Roseville, California) – The American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association (AHRMA) is taking road race skills to the next level.
AHRMA is teaming with Ed Bargy, its 2022 Official Starter, to offer his Ed Bargy LLC Advanced Track Riding Technique Workshop at select AHRMA track day events.
With a 12-student limit, these workshops will include classroom and on-track instruction of the high-performance racing techniques needed to be a successful track rider/racer.
“This is a great opportunity for currently licensed racers as well as non-racers who want to improve their skills and AHRMA is excited to offer this to our members,” said Brian Larrabure, 2022 Chairman of the AHRMA Board of Trustees.
2022 Advanced Track Riding Technique Workshop Schedule
February 17 Roebling Road Raceway Bloomingdale, GA
March 17 Carolina Motorsports Park Kershaw, SC
June 16 New Jersey Motorsports Park Millville, NJ
August 25 Blackhawk Farms Raceway South Beloit, IL
For those new to road racing or needing a refresher, AHRMA is offering its Academy of Road Racing School at all events except for the AHRMA Classic MotoFest™ at Daytona (Daytona International Speedway), the AHRMA Classic MotoFest of Monterey (WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca) and the Barber Vintage Festival. This class is taught by AHRMA Member, Mark Morrow. Pass this class and be eligible to race with AHRMA the same weekend!
Questions should be directed to [email protected].
To register for the workshop or the school, go to ahrma.motorsportreg.com and create a free account or log in to an existing account. Once logged in, find the event for which you wish to register and follow the instructions.
About AHRMA:
The American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association Ltd. is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to restoring and competing on classic motorcycles. With about 3500 members, AHRMA is the largest vintage racing group in North America and one of the biggest in the world. The association has grown steadily over the years, reflecting the increasing interest in classic bikes.
Rossi Moor Will Contest Northern Talent Cup Again In 2022
2022 Northern Talent Cup Entry List revealed
Thursday, 20 January 2022
The Northern Talent Cup enters its third year of competition in 2022 and is set to race alongside the FIM MotoGP™ World Championship, IDM and, for the first time ever, the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship. The application period for 2022 closed on the 31st of December 2021, and the Entry List for the season ahead can now be revealed.
The maximum of 26 full-time riders are set to battle it out for the crown, including 13 rookies, with 10 countries represented: Austria, Belgium, Czechia, Denmark, Germany, Hungary, Italy, the Netherlands, Switzerland and Ukraine.
The seven-round, 14-race 2022 season sees the NTC race in five different countries on six different tracks, with competition set to begin at Le Mans alongside MotoGP™ in May.
NTC_EntryList_Newriders_2022_01_11
BMW Motorrad Posts Record Sales In 2021, U.S. Sales Up 32.1%
IN 2021 BMW MOTORRAD ACHIEVES THE BEST SALES RESULT IN ITS HISTORY WITH AN INCREASE OF 14.8 PERCENT
194,261 BMW motorcycles and scooters were delivered to customers worldwide.
Munich. BMW Motorrad finished the year with a record sales result despite major challenges. With 194,261 units (+14.8%), 2021 was the best year since BMW Motorrad was founded (previous year: 169,272).
Markus Schramm, Head of BMW Motorrad: “The fact that we still managed to finish 2021 with this fantastic result for BMW Motorrad not only makes me happy, but also incredibly proud. It’s precisely in times of crisis where you can see how well a team sticks together. This year, I would therefore like to express my special thanks to all employees as well as to the BMW Motorrad business partners, who made this success possible thanks to their personal commitment and flexibility. My sincere thanks also goes to our customers for their loyalty, trust and support.”
Strong sales growth in Europe and Asia.
Europe showed strong sales growth in 2021. Italy (16,034 units / +15.2 %), Spain (12,616 units / +14.4 %) and France (19,887 units / +13.4 %) were the most important growth drivers and able to continuously increase their sales figures. In total, 9,100 more vehicles were delivered in Europe, including Germany, than in the previous year. The Asian market is also continuing to expand. China (14,309 units / +21.4%) is also one of the strongest growth and volume markets in Asia with double-digit growth. India continues to develop strongly, posting an absolute top result with a growth of 102.5% and a remarkable 5,191 units.
Stable sales in Germany at a slight minus.
Germany remains by far the largest single market for BMW Motorrad. With 25,972 units sold, BMW Motorrad will again defend its position as the most successful motorcycle manufacturer in the German market in 2021.
Encouraging developments in the USA and Brazil.
The market in the USA also developed very positively for BMW Motorrad in 2021. With 16,030 motorcycles and scooters sold (previous year: 12,135 units), BMW Motorrad achieved an impressive +32.1% growth in the USA. Sales in Brazil are not growing quite as fast, but they are increasing steadily. With 11,150 vehicles sold (previous year: 10.707 units) and a growth of +4.1%, the South American market is among the top 7 BMW Motorrad markets in 2021.
Brexit has no noticeable impact on motorcycle sales.
Fortunately, the UK’s exit from the EU had no significant impact on the fun of riding on two wheels. With an increase of 26.6% and sales of 9,263 units in Great Britain/Ireland (previous year 7,315 units), the British market is proving to be stronger than ever before.
Boxer models remain the driving force.
A total of over 60,000 units of the two touring enduros R 1250 GS and GS Adventure alone, were delivered to customers in 2021. Sales of the traditionally strong R Series increased significantly overall. Thanks to the new top-of-the-line R 1250 RT tourer and the four emotional BMW cruisers from the R18 model family, sales figures in the flat-twin boxer segment once again grew strongly, accounting for around half of the total 194,261 vehicles sold.
MotoAmerica: Rodio Racing And Warhorse HSBK Racing Join Forces
Rodio Racing and Warhorse HSBK Racing Partner for 2022
Rodio Racing is proud to announce its partnership with Warhorse HSBK Racing for the MotoAmerica 2022 Race Season.
The partnership will put SportbikeTrackGear.com Junior Cup front runner Gus Rodio, and returning two-time Twins Cup race winner Anthony Mazziotto on Warhorse HSBK Racing-prepped Aprilia RS 660 machines. Rodio is adding this additional class while also competing in the Junior Cup for 2022.
“We’ve seen the level of professionalism Rodio Racing has brought to the paddock over the years, understand the success Mazziotto has had in the class, and appreciate the value of teamwork.” HSBK Racing principal Bobby Shek said. “We have a long history with Aprilia Racing and it was in our best interest to make sure this brand gets the recognition it deserves in the MotoAmerica paddock. It seemed natural to extend our family to the Rodio Racing team, and give them the support they deserve with the Aprilia platform.” In its maiden year, the Aprilia RS 660 won more than half the Twins Cup races last season.
Rodio and Mazziotto have been long time friends on and off the track, with Mazziotto serving as a mentor for several years. The pair both live in Hammonton, New Jersey, train together and share pits whenever their schedules allow.
“It’s an obvious fit for us,” Kevin Rodio, team owner at Rodio Racing said. “We’ve known Mazz since our NJMiniGP days, so this is just a natural evolution. Having Warhorse HSBK Racing trust us with their Twins Cup program means a lot to us, and we’re excited to get the season started.”
When asked about doing double-duty between Junior Cup and Twins, Gus was nothing but excited. “I’ve only raced the Aprilia one weekend at Daytona so far, but it was a killer weekend, and I just want more,” he said. “You have to ride each bike a bit differently, but what racer doesn’t want more seat time, more competition and more opportunity in a race weekend?”
As for Mazziotto, “Gus is like my little bro, and I’m beyond stoked to be sharing the track with him. Kevin has always been a source of support for my racing, and I’m grateful Warhorse HSBK Racing is giving us the opportunity to attack the Twins class together.”
Catch the new team at Daytona International Speedway for the MotoAmerica season opener on March 10th.
R.I.P. Former Race Tuner Dan Kyle
Racing business owner and former AMA Pro race tuner Dan Kyle, of Carmel, California, died of a heart attack Sunday, January 16. He was 67. Kyle is survived by his mother Dorrie, brother Dave, and long-time girlfriend Mikiko.
Kyle is best known as Crew Chief and engine builder for Two Brothers Racing and Erion Racing in the 1980s and 1990s. According to his website, Kyle built engines for riders such as Michael Barnes, John Kocinski, Fred Merkel, Rich Oliver, Larry Pegram, Andrew Stroud, and more, winning five AMA National Championships. He was also named AMA Tuner of the Year twice.
Since 1997, Kyle has owned and operated Kyle Racing in Sand City, California, which is “The World’s Largest Öhlins Dealer,” according to https://kyleusa.com.
We will post more information as it becomes available.
Updated: According to General Manager Mike Wheeler, Kyle USA operations will continue as normal at their California and Florida locations.
MotoAmerica: BARTCON Racing Switching From Supersport To Twins
BARTCON Racing is switching from the MotoAmerica Supersport class to the Twins Cup class for 2022.
“After much soul-searching and considering the recent changes in the Supersport class we have decided to field an entry in the Twins Cup for the 2022 season,” BARTCON Racing owner Colin Barton wrote in an email to Roadracingworld.com. “We will, of course, retain our young South African rider Dominic Doyle, who will compete in what is sure to be a very exciting class this season. A season that will boast a grid overloaded with super talent which will include some of our closest MotoAmerica family friends and riders such as Jackson Blackmon, Anthony Mazziotto, Jody Barry & Cory Ventura but to name a few. So, you can be rest assured that the 2022 Twins Cup class is going to be a scorcher.
“Dominic will be riding aboard a Yamaha R7 built by our very own Sam McDonald, of SA Moto, under long-standing crew chief Mike Skowroneck of Triple Strong Racing and BARTCON Racing General Manager Peter ‘Uncle Pete’ Fitzpatrick.
“We are also stoked and delighted to announce that Mark ‘Doctor D’ Dekutoski will be once again part of our program as one of our main/primary sponsors. We will also continue to support and promote The Wounded Warrior Project along with the U.S. Marine Corps Toys for Tots Foundation.
“Keep an eye out for more upcoming news from BARTCON Racing for the 2022 season.”
KTM Continuing Support Of USMCA Coaching In 2022
KTM ANNOUNCES CONTINUED SUPPORT OF U.S. MOTORCYCLE COACHING ASSOCIATION THROUGH 2022
January 20, 2022
MURRIETA, Calif. – KTM North America, Inc. is pleased to announce its continued partnership with the U.S. Motorcycle Coaching Association (USMCA) through 2022. Along with Husqvarna Motorcycles North America, Inc. and GASGAS Motorcycles North America, all three brands are excited to continue supporting USMCA and its unified vision of growing the sport of motorcycling through great coaching.
Following a record-breaking year in 2021, USMCA has certified over 300 motorcycle coaches in the dirt bike and sport bike space in 43 states across the United States and Puerto Rico, providing an incredible platform for a safer and more educated community of motorcyclists. As a founding partner of USMCA, Husqvarna Motorcycles has been a key factor in many of the organization’s milestones and they will continue providing valuable resources to assist in the ongoing development of the brand.
KTM will continue working together with USMCA as a Motorcycle Partner in 2022. Through its passion for racing development and youth activation events such as the KTM JUNIOR RACING Program, Orange Brigade Team and RC Cup initiatives, KTM will continue to push coaching to the broader riding community.
John Hinz – CEO, KTM North America, Inc.: “We are thrilled to extend our partnership with USMCA. With each one of our motorcycle brands we understand the importance of providing the next generation of riders a well-structured platform that emphasizes coaching uniformity. Not only is the USMCA creating space for new riders, but establishing the foundation and fundamentals needed for riders to enjoy a lifetime of motorcycle riding and racing.”
Lindsey Scheltema – Executive Director, USMCA: “We are truly grateful for KTM’s continued involvement and support as we continue to grow and expand in 2022. Their organization has been incredibly involved since inception and we look forward to connecting more riders to USMCA coaches across the country through their help of promoting the new Motorcycle Coaching app on the local level.”
About the U.S. Motorcycle Coaching Association (“USMCA”)
USMCA is an association where riders and parents can connect to motorcycle coaches they can trust through the network, www.MotorcycleCoaching.org. All USMCA Certified Coaches are required to adhere to a code of conduct, pass a background check and hold certifications in abuse prevention, CPR/First Aid, concussion protocol, heat illness & cardiac arrest training.
For more information on the USMCA or become a USMCA Certified Coach, visit www.USMCA.org.
Video: Suzuki Riders Go Head-To-Head
What happens when our MotoGP riders go head to head with Suzuki’s Endurance riders?! Who will win the quiz? @MotoGP #SUZUKing #AlexRins #JoanMir #SylvainGuintoli #GreggBlack #XavierSimeon
Ducati Certified As “Top Employer” In Italy For Eighth Consecutive Year
Ducati is Top Employer Italy 2022
Ducati certified as Top Employer Italy 2022 for the eighth consecutive year
The Bologna-based motorcycle manufacturer continues to work effectively to promote the value and well-being of its employees
Thanks to the management and initiatives in the Human Resources sector, the company has been able to maintain high its corporate results
Borgo Panigale, Bologna – Ducati has met the highest quality standards to be awarded the Top Employer Italy certification for the eighth year in a row. Despite the difficult challenges posed by the pandemic, the Bologna-based motorcycle manufacturer was able to offer its employees safe and excellent working conditions. These lay, on the one hand, in a functioning human resources strategy with people at the center, and, on the other hand, also in crisis management to deal with the emergency by a Covid-19 Task Force set up for this purpose, in which the trade unions are involved in addition to many areas of the company.
The Top Employer certification is an official recognition that is issued by the Top Employers Institute after a long evaluation process in which HR management practices and strategies are analysed, with particular attention to working conditions, training and growth of the personnel, family and social needs of employees.
Ducati is constantly committed to improving and optimizing its best practices in the field of Human Resources. This year, in addition to the efficient smart working organizational model, the enhancement of the increasingly heterogeneous and inclusive working environment, participation in environmental sustainability initiatives and projects, and investment in the digital training of its employees have all contributed to maintaining high company results.
“Receiving the prestigious Top Employer award for the eighth consecutive year is not only a great satisfaction, but a confirmation of the progress made in recent years and a demonstration of Ducati’s ability and readiness to react in the face of complexities”, said Sebastian Patta, Ducati Human Resources Director. “The protection and safety measures we have adopted so far have proved to be functional and efficient and these, combined with the policies implemented by our Human Resources and the dedication of our collaborators, have allowed Ducati to conclude 2021 with a sales record, registering the best year ever. Our employees are the real engine of the company and attention to those who dedicate themselves every day to its success with diligence, performance and commitment is fundamental for us. Therefore our thanks go first and foremost to the workforce of Ducati who give our company their professionalism, enthusiasm and passion for what they do”.
All information on the Top Employers Institute and the Top Employers Certification is available on the website www.top-employers.com
Moto2: American Racing Team Officially Introduced In California
American Racing Team officially introduced its riders for the 2022 FIM Moto2 World Championship, Cameron Beaubier and Sean Dylan Kelly, and their Triumph-powered Kalex motorcycles in an event held at a multi-million-dollar home in Southern California Tuesday, January 18.
The event was emceed by part-time reality TV star and full-time motorcycle enthusiast Barry Weiss and by American Racing Team owners Eitan Butbul and Avner Kass along with Team Director John “Hopper” Hopkins.
The event was also attended by motorcycle industry figures, including Mike Buckley, Senior Vice-President Sales, Marketing, and R&D at Dunlop Motorcycle Tires.
“This thing is bigger than I thought it would be,” said Beaubier, who just got married in December. “It’s pretty cool, and it’s pretty special having people from the American Racing Team, from MotoAmerica, from Dunlop, from Roadracing World, a lot of people who have helped me along the way and want to see us succeed over there. It’s a pretty cool evening.
“Eitan and Hopper said some pretty nice things about me, and I think it’s really cool with what they’re doing with the American Racing Academy and what they’re doing for American road racing on the world stage. It’s pretty special.”
Beaubier’s new rookie teammate Kelly just returned to America in December after spending more than a month traveling around Europe hitting track days on five different Grand Prix tracks on his new Kalex. The Florida resident then wrapped up his early education by being ninth-fastest at a multi-team test at Jerez in late-November.
“The bike, we all know it has a stiffer chassis, and that’s a game changer,” said Kelly, who won the 2021 MotoAmerica Supersport Championship on a Team M4 ECSTAR Suzuki GSX-R600. “It makes it so much different how you have to ride it, and it makes the limit that much higher. At the end of the day, that bike was made to race. On that bike, you go faster, then you go faster, then you go faster until you’re not and you’re on the floor. That’s what makes them so quick and so hard to ride. But it’s an incredible machine.”
Hopkins declared Beaubier a Championship contender and Kelly a potential Moto2 Rookie of the Year.
After a quick stop Thursday at Chuckwalla Valley Raceway for some photo and video work, American Racing Team will resume testing in Europe in February.
AHRMA Announces Advanced Riding Workshops
AHRMA announces 2022 Advanced Riding Technique Workshops
(Roseville, California) – The American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association (AHRMA) is taking road race skills to the next level.
AHRMA is teaming with Ed Bargy, its 2022 Official Starter, to offer his Ed Bargy LLC Advanced Track Riding Technique Workshop at select AHRMA track day events.
With a 12-student limit, these workshops will include classroom and on-track instruction of the high-performance racing techniques needed to be a successful track rider/racer.
“This is a great opportunity for currently licensed racers as well as non-racers who want to improve their skills and AHRMA is excited to offer this to our members,” said Brian Larrabure, 2022 Chairman of the AHRMA Board of Trustees.
2022 Advanced Track Riding Technique Workshop Schedule
February 17 Roebling Road Raceway Bloomingdale, GA
March 17 Carolina Motorsports Park Kershaw, SC
June 16 New Jersey Motorsports Park Millville, NJ
August 25 Blackhawk Farms Raceway South Beloit, IL
For those new to road racing or needing a refresher, AHRMA is offering its Academy of Road Racing School at all events except for the AHRMA Classic MotoFest™ at Daytona (Daytona International Speedway), the AHRMA Classic MotoFest of Monterey (WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca) and the Barber Vintage Festival. This class is taught by AHRMA Member, Mark Morrow. Pass this class and be eligible to race with AHRMA the same weekend!
Questions should be directed to [email protected].
To register for the workshop or the school, go to ahrma.motorsportreg.com and create a free account or log in to an existing account. Once logged in, find the event for which you wish to register and follow the instructions.
About AHRMA:
The American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association Ltd. is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to restoring and competing on classic motorcycles. With about 3500 members, AHRMA is the largest vintage racing group in North America and one of the biggest in the world. The association has grown steadily over the years, reflecting the increasing interest in classic bikes.
Rossi Moor Will Contest Northern Talent Cup Again In 2022
2022 Northern Talent Cup Entry List revealed
Thursday, 20 January 2022
The Northern Talent Cup enters its third year of competition in 2022 and is set to race alongside the FIM MotoGP™ World Championship, IDM and, for the first time ever, the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship. The application period for 2022 closed on the 31st of December 2021, and the Entry List for the season ahead can now be revealed.
The maximum of 26 full-time riders are set to battle it out for the crown, including 13 rookies, with 10 countries represented: Austria, Belgium, Czechia, Denmark, Germany, Hungary, Italy, the Netherlands, Switzerland and Ukraine.
The seven-round, 14-race 2022 season sees the NTC race in five different countries on six different tracks, with competition set to begin at Le Mans alongside MotoGP™ in May.
NTC_EntryList_Newriders_2022_01_11
BMW Motorrad Posts Record Sales In 2021, U.S. Sales Up 32.1%
IN 2021 BMW MOTORRAD ACHIEVES THE BEST SALES RESULT IN ITS HISTORY WITH AN INCREASE OF 14.8 PERCENT
194,261 BMW motorcycles and scooters were delivered to customers worldwide.
Munich. BMW Motorrad finished the year with a record sales result despite major challenges. With 194,261 units (+14.8%), 2021 was the best year since BMW Motorrad was founded (previous year: 169,272).
Markus Schramm, Head of BMW Motorrad: “The fact that we still managed to finish 2021 with this fantastic result for BMW Motorrad not only makes me happy, but also incredibly proud. It’s precisely in times of crisis where you can see how well a team sticks together. This year, I would therefore like to express my special thanks to all employees as well as to the BMW Motorrad business partners, who made this success possible thanks to their personal commitment and flexibility. My sincere thanks also goes to our customers for their loyalty, trust and support.”
Strong sales growth in Europe and Asia.
Europe showed strong sales growth in 2021. Italy (16,034 units / +15.2 %), Spain (12,616 units / +14.4 %) and France (19,887 units / +13.4 %) were the most important growth drivers and able to continuously increase their sales figures. In total, 9,100 more vehicles were delivered in Europe, including Germany, than in the previous year. The Asian market is also continuing to expand. China (14,309 units / +21.4%) is also one of the strongest growth and volume markets in Asia with double-digit growth. India continues to develop strongly, posting an absolute top result with a growth of 102.5% and a remarkable 5,191 units.
Stable sales in Germany at a slight minus.
Germany remains by far the largest single market for BMW Motorrad. With 25,972 units sold, BMW Motorrad will again defend its position as the most successful motorcycle manufacturer in the German market in 2021.
Encouraging developments in the USA and Brazil.
The market in the USA also developed very positively for BMW Motorrad in 2021. With 16,030 motorcycles and scooters sold (previous year: 12,135 units), BMW Motorrad achieved an impressive +32.1% growth in the USA. Sales in Brazil are not growing quite as fast, but they are increasing steadily. With 11,150 vehicles sold (previous year: 10.707 units) and a growth of +4.1%, the South American market is among the top 7 BMW Motorrad markets in 2021.
Brexit has no noticeable impact on motorcycle sales.
Fortunately, the UK’s exit from the EU had no significant impact on the fun of riding on two wheels. With an increase of 26.6% and sales of 9,263 units in Great Britain/Ireland (previous year 7,315 units), the British market is proving to be stronger than ever before.
Boxer models remain the driving force.
A total of over 60,000 units of the two touring enduros R 1250 GS and GS Adventure alone, were delivered to customers in 2021. Sales of the traditionally strong R Series increased significantly overall. Thanks to the new top-of-the-line R 1250 RT tourer and the four emotional BMW cruisers from the R18 model family, sales figures in the flat-twin boxer segment once again grew strongly, accounting for around half of the total 194,261 vehicles sold.
MotoAmerica: Rodio Racing And Warhorse HSBK Racing Join Forces
Rodio Racing and Warhorse HSBK Racing Partner for 2022
Rodio Racing is proud to announce its partnership with Warhorse HSBK Racing for the MotoAmerica 2022 Race Season.
The partnership will put SportbikeTrackGear.com Junior Cup front runner Gus Rodio, and returning two-time Twins Cup race winner Anthony Mazziotto on Warhorse HSBK Racing-prepped Aprilia RS 660 machines. Rodio is adding this additional class while also competing in the Junior Cup for 2022.
“We’ve seen the level of professionalism Rodio Racing has brought to the paddock over the years, understand the success Mazziotto has had in the class, and appreciate the value of teamwork.” HSBK Racing principal Bobby Shek said. “We have a long history with Aprilia Racing and it was in our best interest to make sure this brand gets the recognition it deserves in the MotoAmerica paddock. It seemed natural to extend our family to the Rodio Racing team, and give them the support they deserve with the Aprilia platform.” In its maiden year, the Aprilia RS 660 won more than half the Twins Cup races last season.
Rodio and Mazziotto have been long time friends on and off the track, with Mazziotto serving as a mentor for several years. The pair both live in Hammonton, New Jersey, train together and share pits whenever their schedules allow.
“It’s an obvious fit for us,” Kevin Rodio, team owner at Rodio Racing said. “We’ve known Mazz since our NJMiniGP days, so this is just a natural evolution. Having Warhorse HSBK Racing trust us with their Twins Cup program means a lot to us, and we’re excited to get the season started.”
When asked about doing double-duty between Junior Cup and Twins, Gus was nothing but excited. “I’ve only raced the Aprilia one weekend at Daytona so far, but it was a killer weekend, and I just want more,” he said. “You have to ride each bike a bit differently, but what racer doesn’t want more seat time, more competition and more opportunity in a race weekend?”
As for Mazziotto, “Gus is like my little bro, and I’m beyond stoked to be sharing the track with him. Kevin has always been a source of support for my racing, and I’m grateful Warhorse HSBK Racing is giving us the opportunity to attack the Twins class together.”
Catch the new team at Daytona International Speedway for the MotoAmerica season opener on March 10th.
R.I.P. Former Race Tuner Dan Kyle
Racing business owner and former AMA Pro race tuner Dan Kyle, of Carmel, California, died of a heart attack Sunday, January 16. He was 67. Kyle is survived by his mother Dorrie, brother Dave, and long-time girlfriend Mikiko.
Kyle is best known as Crew Chief and engine builder for Two Brothers Racing and Erion Racing in the 1980s and 1990s. According to his website, Kyle built engines for riders such as Michael Barnes, John Kocinski, Fred Merkel, Rich Oliver, Larry Pegram, Andrew Stroud, and more, winning five AMA National Championships. He was also named AMA Tuner of the Year twice.
Since 1997, Kyle has owned and operated Kyle Racing in Sand City, California, which is “The World’s Largest Öhlins Dealer,” according to https://kyleusa.com.
We will post more information as it becomes available.
Updated: According to General Manager Mike Wheeler, Kyle USA operations will continue as normal at their California and Florida locations.
MotoAmerica: BARTCON Racing Switching From Supersport To Twins
BARTCON Racing is switching from the MotoAmerica Supersport class to the Twins Cup class for 2022.
“After much soul-searching and considering the recent changes in the Supersport class we have decided to field an entry in the Twins Cup for the 2022 season,” BARTCON Racing owner Colin Barton wrote in an email to Roadracingworld.com. “We will, of course, retain our young South African rider Dominic Doyle, who will compete in what is sure to be a very exciting class this season. A season that will boast a grid overloaded with super talent which will include some of our closest MotoAmerica family friends and riders such as Jackson Blackmon, Anthony Mazziotto, Jody Barry & Cory Ventura but to name a few. So, you can be rest assured that the 2022 Twins Cup class is going to be a scorcher.
“Dominic will be riding aboard a Yamaha R7 built by our very own Sam McDonald, of SA Moto, under long-standing crew chief Mike Skowroneck of Triple Strong Racing and BARTCON Racing General Manager Peter ‘Uncle Pete’ Fitzpatrick.
“We are also stoked and delighted to announce that Mark ‘Doctor D’ Dekutoski will be once again part of our program as one of our main/primary sponsors. We will also continue to support and promote The Wounded Warrior Project along with the U.S. Marine Corps Toys for Tots Foundation.
“Keep an eye out for more upcoming news from BARTCON Racing for the 2022 season.”
KTM Continuing Support Of USMCA Coaching In 2022
KTM ANNOUNCES CONTINUED SUPPORT OF U.S. MOTORCYCLE COACHING ASSOCIATION THROUGH 2022
January 20, 2022
MURRIETA, Calif. – KTM North America, Inc. is pleased to announce its continued partnership with the U.S. Motorcycle Coaching Association (USMCA) through 2022. Along with Husqvarna Motorcycles North America, Inc. and GASGAS Motorcycles North America, all three brands are excited to continue supporting USMCA and its unified vision of growing the sport of motorcycling through great coaching.
Following a record-breaking year in 2021, USMCA has certified over 300 motorcycle coaches in the dirt bike and sport bike space in 43 states across the United States and Puerto Rico, providing an incredible platform for a safer and more educated community of motorcyclists. As a founding partner of USMCA, Husqvarna Motorcycles has been a key factor in many of the organization’s milestones and they will continue providing valuable resources to assist in the ongoing development of the brand.
KTM will continue working together with USMCA as a Motorcycle Partner in 2022. Through its passion for racing development and youth activation events such as the KTM JUNIOR RACING Program, Orange Brigade Team and RC Cup initiatives, KTM will continue to push coaching to the broader riding community.
John Hinz – CEO, KTM North America, Inc.: “We are thrilled to extend our partnership with USMCA. With each one of our motorcycle brands we understand the importance of providing the next generation of riders a well-structured platform that emphasizes coaching uniformity. Not only is the USMCA creating space for new riders, but establishing the foundation and fundamentals needed for riders to enjoy a lifetime of motorcycle riding and racing.”
Lindsey Scheltema – Executive Director, USMCA: “We are truly grateful for KTM’s continued involvement and support as we continue to grow and expand in 2022. Their organization has been incredibly involved since inception and we look forward to connecting more riders to USMCA coaches across the country through their help of promoting the new Motorcycle Coaching app on the local level.”
About the U.S. Motorcycle Coaching Association (“USMCA”)
USMCA is an association where riders and parents can connect to motorcycle coaches they can trust through the network, www.MotorcycleCoaching.org. All USMCA Certified Coaches are required to adhere to a code of conduct, pass a background check and hold certifications in abuse prevention, CPR/First Aid, concussion protocol, heat illness & cardiac arrest training.
For more information on the USMCA or become a USMCA Certified Coach, visit www.USMCA.org.