E-Xplorer SA To Promote FIM E-Xplorer World Cup Electric Racing Series

David Swarts

-

December 17, 2021

E-Xplorer SA To Promote FIM E-Xplorer World Cup Electric Racing Series

E-Xplorer SA signs as official Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM) promotor ahead of inaugural FIM E-Xplorer World Cup

E-Xplorer SA becomes official FIM series-promoter and commercial rights-holder ahead of inaugural FIM E-Xplorer World Cup debut season in 2022.

The Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM), have appointed E-Xplorer SA as the official series promoter and commercial rights-holder of the FIM E-Xplorer World Cup. The parties were represented respectively by E-Xplorer CEO Valentin Guyonnet, CCO Carina Munte and FIM President Jorge Viegas at a signing at the FIM headquaters in Mies, Switzerland.

The appointment of E-Xplorer SA as a new FIM promoter ushers in an exciting era for motorsport, with the FIM E-Xplorer World Cup acting as the global laboratory for two-wheeled electric technology and mobility. Attracting some of the best-known motorbike manufacturers, the global series will help to test, develop and prove the two-wheeled electric technology of tomorrow on notable urban and rural stages around the World.
With a sustainability commitment dating back almost three decades, the FIM was the first international sports federation to establish an Environmental Code, first published since 1994.

With both organisations proudly promoting equality in sport, the partnership between the FIM and E-Xplorer hopes to encourage diversity and equality in motorsport. Founded and powered by a team of females and males, E-Xplorer SA will ensure both genders are represented in all business, operational and sporting aspects of the series. With a total of 10 teams, each will compete with one female and one male rider – at five events around the world in the inaugural season.

The appointment sees E-Xplorer SA join a select group of 12 existing FIM promoters and become the first promoter of the FIM E-Bike Commission (CEB), opening up a new and unique category of electric motorcycle racing in both urban and rural environments.

FIM President Jorge Viegas says: “This announcement marks an important moment for the FIM, with this being the first promoter for the FIM E-Bike Commission (CEB). The E-Xplorer team will bring great experience to this series, but equally they are a modern and dynamic organisation that reflects the nature of this new championship. This is the first full electric discipline for both teams and manufacturers, which will take place in a mixture of off-road and city locations. Moreover, the series will promote gender equality with each team having one male and one female rider. Ultimately we believe that the FIM E-Xplorer World Cup will act as testing ground for the development for ‘all terrain’ electric motorcycles.”

E-Xplorer S.A CEO Valentin Guyonnet says: “Joining forces with the FIM and becoming the global promoter for the FIM E-Xplorer World Cup is a great moment for us, for the FIM and for motorsport in general.

With shared values on advancing the future of two-wheeled technology and seeing greater equality in sport, the FIM E-Xplorer World Cup is the destination for the greatest motorbike manufacturers and top rider talent to compete. In doing so, the series will act as a catalyst for developing the latest technology, which will be tested to extremes by some of the greatest athletes when the competition kicks off in 2022.

Seeing the pace at which the series is growing is unbelievable. We’re delighted by the welcome we’ve received from the FIM and the interest we’ve had from leading motorbike manufacturers, who all see the series as a way of remaining at the forefront of electric motorcycle technology. The FIM has been with us from the very beginning and I’m thrilled to continue to have them support the E-Xplorer World Cup as a global authority in the sport.”

E-Xplorer S.A CCO Carina Munte says: “Together, with the FIM, the team of men and women behind E-Xplorer SA power all aspects of this series to create an environment where both females and males can thrive and compete at the same level. While gender equality is still a statement in the current sporting World, we hope that other series can follow us and help it become the norm.

Beyond that, the series hopes to encourage exploration and environmental stewardship. E-Xplorer was created to harness and promote the power of the environments we race in – not exploit them. Alongside the FIM’s long-standing commitment, the series seeks to improve the relationship between motorcycling and the environment by pitching the latest zero-emissions, electric motorcycle technology against each other in a competitive setting. With the racing taking place against some of the world’s most spectacular urban and rural backdrops, the FIM E-Explorer World Cup is a radical new form of motorsport aimed at forward thinking generations who believe in the power of sport to drive positive change.”

The FIM and E-Xplorer SA invite applications for teams ahead of the inaugural season starting in 2022.

For more information about the application, contact: [email protected].

Brandy Richards Named 2021 AMA Motorcyclist Of The Year

David Swarts

-

December 17, 2021

0

Brandy Richards Named 2021 AMA Motorcyclist Of The Year

Brandy Richards Announced as 2021 AMA Motorcyclist of the Year

Kleen, McFarland, Taylor receive 2021 AMA Board of Directors Awards

PICKERINGTON, Ohio — Following a historic and undeniable performance in the 2021 International Six Days Enduro (ISDE), Brandy Richards has been named the 2021 American Motorcyclist Association Motorcyclist of the Year.

Richards became the first person in the century-plus history of the ISDE to win every single test in her class. Her flawless performance in Italy spanned 28 tests scattered across six days of riding. Her efforts helped the U.S. Women’s World Trophy Team win the 2021 ISDE by more than 15 minutes over runner-up Great Britain.

“Brandy Richards accomplished something truly extraordinary in Italy this year,” said AMA Board of Directors Chairman Russ Ehnes. “Making ISDE history with her performance on the world stage deserved recognition — which is why we selected her as the AMA’s 2021 Motorcyclist of the Year. We’re extremely proud of her stellar example of American greatness and to have her as an AMA member.”

The annual award is given to the individual or group that had the most profound impact on the world of motorcycling that year, and the recipient is voted on by the AMA Board of Directors.

“I never thought I’d be considered for [Motorcyclist of the Year] even after winning ISDE,” said Richards. “It’s amazing that the AMA recognized me…and I’m shocked and grateful to be given this honor.”

The AMA Board also awarded the AMA Dud Perkins Lifetime Achievement Award to Dan Kleen, who has served as Chairman of the Board of Directors for the National Off-Highway Vehicle Conservation Council for the last 21 years.

Recipients of the award showcase the highest level of service to the AMA in an area of activity, and Kleen’s help establishing the Iowa Off-Highway Vehicle Association, efforts forming the Iowa Motorsports Coalition, and role in founding the Friends of Iowa’s Trials group, made him the perfect candidate for the honor. An avid hunter, Kleen also helped set up hunts and rides for disabled veterans in Iowa and other states.

The AMA Bessie Stringfield Award is bestowed upon an individual who has been instrumental in introducing or promoting motorcycling to emerging markets, and the 2021 honoree is Ryan McFarland.

McFarland, founder of Strider Bikes, focuses on increasing kids’ exposure to riding bicycles and developing necessary skills that are beneficial to riding motorcycles. But his efforts do not stop with addressing youth participation and education to uplift the future of motorcycling, as McFarland’s Strider Bikes also create bikes and programs to assist individuals with special needs in learning to ride.

Rounding out the AMA Board of Directors Awards, Porsche Taylor is being recognized with the AMA Hazel Kolb Brighter Image Award — an honor given to individuals or organizations that generate good publicity for motorcycling.

Taylor, founder and editor-in-chief of Black Girls Ride (BGR) Magazine, has contributed to increasing representation and recognition of women — particularly women of color — in motorsports. The BGR movement has led to an annual Beautiful Bikers Conference and an annual Black Girls Ride to Essence Fest, which aim to integrate motorsports into the largest celebration of Black women in the world.

More information about 2021 AMA Motorcyclist of the Year Brandy Richards can be found in the January edition of American Motorcyclist.

About the American Motorcyclist Association

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

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

World Superbike: Lecuona Injured In First Test With Honda

David Swarts

-

December 16, 2021

0

World Superbike: Lecuona Injured In First Test With Honda

Work will resume after the winter holidays for Iker Lecuona

For Iker Lecuona, the first World Superbike test with Team HRC at the Jerez de la Frontera track in Spain came to an end midway through the second of three days, following a very satisfying opening day of intense work during which the riders began to get a feel for both their CBR1000RR-R FIREBLADE and the category.

After hitting his left hand in a fall at turn 12, the last right-hand corner, Iker was taken to the medical centre and then Jerez hospital for a thorough check-up. Tests have excluded any serious injuries, but a fracture to the little finger on his left hand means that the Spanish rider will sit out tomorrow’s final day of testing which will go ahead as planned with team-mate Xavi Vierge.

Doctors will check on Iker’s finger again in the next few days.

MotoAmerica Announces New, Free-To-View MotoAmerica TV

David Swarts

-

December 16, 2021

0

MotoAmerica Announces New, Free-To-View MotoAmerica TV

MotoAmerica And Triple-B Media Announce New Television Network – MotoAmerica TV

A 24/7 Free, Ad-Supported Network Dedicated To MotoAmerica Content And Motorcycle Racing From Around The Globe

IRVINE, CA (December 16, 2021) – MotoAmerica, North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series, is proud to announce MotoAmerica TV, a 24/7 free, ad-supported television network devoted to airing MotoAmerica’s racing to a worldwide audience dating back to the series’ first season in 2015. MotoAmerica TV was created in partnership with Triple-B Media, a full-service television and digital media company.

Beginning with content from the 2015 and 2016 seasons, MotoAmerica TV will air all seven years of the MotoAmerica Series as well as select live content in 2022. The channel will launch with hundreds of hours of MotoAmerica content to feed even the hungriest of MotoAmerica fans.

MotoAmerica TV is a one-stop shop for race fans to access both historic and new content from the device and platform of their choice. The channel is currently available on Distro TV, Local Now, Stremium, Zingo TV and at www.motoamerica.tv. MotoAmerica TV is now available to more than 10 million households with additional platforms expected to launch in 2022.

“We are very excited about the launch of MotoAmerica TV,” said MotoAmerica COO Chuck Aksland. “This type of free to air access is quickly gaining in popularity. As we continue to develop arrangements with more platforms, millions of people around the world will have easy access to follow all classes of MotoAmerica racing 24/7. The content will be a mix of both historic and new racing action, continually updated and refreshed.”

”With nearly five million people tuning in to watch the furious action of the MotoAmerica Series in 2021, motorcycle racing has proven to be a must-see sport,” said Brendan Canning, Chief Commercial Officer, Triple-B Media. “With the launch of MotoAmerica TV, we plan to capture that action day in and day out, 24/7. We are beyond excited to partner with MotoAmerica on this new television network.”

About Triple-B Media

Triple-B Media is a full-service television and digital media company, specializing in the operation of free, ad supported television networks. To date, Triple-B Media owns or operates five television networks including For The Fans (FTF), Lacrosse Sports Network, Fido TV and Billiard TV and MotoAmerica TV. The Company also operates its own digital platform called Streamstak at www.streamstak.com.

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.

MotoE World Cup: Provisional 2022 Entry List Released

David Swarts

-

December 16, 2021

0

MotoE World Cup: Provisional 2022 Entry List Released

FIM Enel MotoE™ World Cup

Provisional Entry List, 16 December

The provisional Entry List for the 2022 FIM Enel MotoE™ World Cup can now be announced, with 18 riders from six nationalities set to contest the Cup next season.

A host of fast faces return to the grid, including 2020 and 2021 Cup winner Jordi Torres (Pons Racing 40). The Spaniard will be joined by the likes of 2021 runner up Dominique Aegerter (Dynavolt Intact GP), multiple race winner Eric Granado (LCR E-Team), 2019 Cup winner Matteo Ferrari (Felo Gresini MotoE), race winner Miquel Pons (LCR E-Team) and podium finisher Mattia Casadei (Pons Racing 40).

The 2022 season will also see the return of Grand Prix winner and established MotoE™ challenger Bradley Smith, the Brit set to line up at WithU GRT RNF MotoE Team alongside another experienced, returning rider in Niccolo Canepa. Grand Prix podium finisher Hector Garzo (Tech3 E-Team) also returns to the fold, having already proven one of the fastest in the field in his previous MotoE™ outings.

The experience continues with Maria Herrera (Openbank Aspar Team), Hikari Okubo (Avant Ajo MotoE) and Kevin Zannoni (Ongetta SIC58 Squadra Corse), and there are also a good number of rookies set to contest the Cup in 2022.

They include the likes of Xavi Fores (Octo Pramac MotoE) and Alex Escrig (Tech3 E-Racing). Fores is a multiple podium finisher in WorldSBK and has a wealth of experience on two wheels ahead of his new challenge, and Escrig arrives from winning the STK600 category in the 2021 Moto2™ European Championship – as did Fermin Aldeguer, one of the fastest MotoE™ rookies last season who then went on to take the European Moto2™ crown.

N° RIDER NATIONALITY TEAM

4 HECTOR GARZO SPANISH TECH3 E-RACING

6 MARIA HERRERA SPANISH OPENBANK ASPAR TEAM

7 NICCOLO CANEPA ITALIAN WITHU GRT RNF MotoE TEAM

11 MATTEO FERRARI ITALIAN FELO GRESINI MotoE

12 JAVIER FORES SPANISH OCTO PRAMAC MotoE

17 ALEX ESCRIG SPANISH TECH3 E-RACING

21 KEVIN ZANNONI ITALIAN ONGETTA SIC58 SQUADRACORSE

27 MATTIA CASADEI ITALIAN PONS RACING 40

34 KEVIN MANFREDI ITALIAN OCTO PRAMAC MotoE

38 BRADLEY SMITH BRITISH WITHU GRT RNF MotoE TEAM

40 JORDI TORRES SPANISH PONS RACING 40

51 ERIC GRANADO BRAZILIAN LCR E-TEAM

70 MARC ALCOBA SPANISH OPENBANK ASPAR TEAM

71 MIQUEL PONS SPANISH LCR E-TEAM

72 ALESSIO FINELLO ITALIAN FELO GRESINI MotoE

77 DOMINIQUE AEGERTER SWISS DYNAVOLT INTACT GP MotoE

78 HIKARI OKUBO JAPANESE AVANT AJO MotoE

TBC AVINTIA ESPONSORAMA RACING

Canadian Ben Young Wins 2021 BMW Motorrad Race Trophy

David Swarts

-

December 16, 2021

0

Canadian Ben Young Wins 2021 BMW Motorrad Race Trophy

At the end of an exciting season: Ben Young wins the 2021 BMW Motorrad Race Trophy.

Ben Young from the Canadian Superbike Championship wins tight head-to-head battle for the 2021 Race Trophy.
Main prize, a new BMW M 1000 RR, presented at BMW Motorrad Canada.
Roberto Tamburini and Alexandre Leleu finish second and third.
Private BMW Motorrad racers win titles in various international and national championships.
Marc Bongers: “Our motor racing customers are the best ambassadors we at BMW Motorrad Motorsport could wish for”.

München. Ben Young is the winner of the 2021 BMW Motorrad Race Trophy. Born in Scotland but now living in Canada, he scored more Race Trophy points in his races in the Canadian Superbike Championship (CSBK) than any other competitor. Young was rewarded for his success with a spectacular main prize, a new BMW M 1000 RR. Young received his new bike at BMW Motorrad Canada in Winnipeg (CAN).

Since 2014, BMW Motorrad Motorsport has brought private BMW racers from different international and national championships around the world under one roof in a unique competition – the Race Trophy. In 2021, a new scoring system was introduced with the ‘winning percentage’. The Race Trophy points correspond to the percentage of the points that the competitors have scored in their respective championship in relation to the maximum number of points possible in the racing series.

Young emerged triumphant from a close battle to win the 2021 Race Trophy. He finished on the podium in all seven races of the 2021 CSBK season – one victory, five second-places and one third – and scored a total of 84.86 Race Trophy points. In doing so, Young narrowly defeated Roberto Tamburini (ITA) from the Italian National Trophy 1000, who ended the year on 84.00 points. Third place went to Alexandre Leleu (FRA) from the French European Bikes Championship with 76.86 points.

“Congratulations to Ben Young, on behalf of the entire BMW Motorrad Motorsport family,” said BMW Motorrad Motorsport Director Marc Bongers. “It has been another very exciting season, in which our private racers around the world have again achieved countless successes. As such, the ‘winning percentages’ they achieved in their respective racing series are very high. All the top riders won races and claimed podiums in their championships on the BMW M 1000 RR and the BMW S 1000 RR, so the race for the Race Trophy was a very close one. We are also very proud to have a number of champions in our ranks again this season. I would like to congratulate all our motor racing customers on the success they have achieved this season. They are the best ambassadors we at BMW Motorrad Motorsport could wish for.”

“Congratulations to Ben Young and all the participants on their success in the 2021 season,” said Uwe Geyer, who is responsible for the Race Trophy at BMW Motorrad Motorsport. “We are delighted that private BMW racers remain keen to be a part of the Race Trophy family – although the pandemic continues to affect the sport of motor racing. In 2021, our participants came from 21 countries in Europe, America, Asia and Oceania. That shows how close-knit our global family of racers is. We are grateful to all the racers and teams for being part of the BMW Motorrad Racing community.”

A BMW M 1000 RR for winner Ben Young.

Unfortunately, the pandemic meant it was not possible to stage a grand finale to assemble and honour the top riders in 2021. Instead, Young received his main prize – the BMW M 1000 RR – at BMW Motorrad Canada.

“Achieving this is very important to myself and my team,” said winner Young. “After a Covid affected 2020 it is very satisfying to come back racing and reach these goals I set for myself. I feel like this is a great opportunity for myself and Canadian racing to be recognized on a worldwide stage, and I am proud to be able to do that. It was a great season of racing. It was nice to be back after a year out. Working for the first time with the new generation BMW S 1000 RR was amazing right from the get go, gaining knowledge every lap we turned along the way. We do plan on racing the BMW M 1000 RR next year which for me is like a dream come true. Ever since the bike was released, it was something to drool over and now being able to race it is going to be spectacular!”

Victories and podiums aplenty.

Second-placed Tamburini ended the year just 0.86 points behind Young. Tamburini also finished on the podium in all seven races in the Italian National Trophy 1000. With three victories, two second-places and a third, he was crowned champion with races to spare. This was the first title for the new BMW M 1000 RR. Third-placed Leleu was the man to beat in the French European Bikes Championship. In 14 races, he took eight victories on the BMW S 1000 RR, as well as one runner-up finish and two third-places. He also won the title in his series.

Tamburini and Leleu, like all the riders who finished from second to tenth place, receive vouchers for BMW Motorrad parts packages, which can be redeemed at BMW Motorrad Motorsport Official Partner, alpha Racing. The total value of the vouchers amounts to € 40,000 (see below for an overview of the top ten).

2021 champions.

In its debut season the new BMW M 1000 RR enjoyed titles and success from the word go in various championships around the world – and did so in a manner worthy of champions. Tamburini claimed the first title for the new Superbike at the end of April, when he was crowned champion in the Italian National Trophy 1000 after six of the season’s seven races. The maiden title in an international championship came courtesy of Ilya Mikhalchik (UKR) in the Internationalen German Motorcycle Championship (IDM). Mikhalchik had previously been champion twice with the S 1000 RR, and repeated that success on the M 1000 RR. The podium in the 2021 IDM was an all-BMW affair. Champion Mikhalchik was joined on the rostrum by two fellow BMW riders Florian Alt (GER) and Luca Grünwald (GER). In the Spanish Superbike Championship, Ivo Lopes (POR) won the title with the BMW M 1000 RR. In doing so, he became the first Portuguese rider to be crowned champion in the Spanish Superbike series.

Other BMW riders also won titles in their series on the BMW S 1000 RR. The experienced Didier Grams (GER) again ended an exciting season as champion of the International Road Racing Championship. In the French European Bikes Championship, first and second place went to BMW riders; runner-up behind champion Leleu was Marc Bachelier (FRA). Michal Filla (CZE) won the Superstock class in the Alpe Adria International Motorcycle Championship. BMW riders also finished second and third in many more championships.

BMW Motorrad Race Trophy 2021 – Final Top Ten*.

Pos.	Name (Nat.)	Championship / Class	Points
1	Ben Young (CAN)	CSBK	84.86
2	Roberto Tamburini (ITA)	IT 1000	84.00
3	Alexandre Leleu (FRA)	FR EU	76.86
4	Didier Grams (GER)	IRRC	75.20
5	Michal Prášek (CZE)	AA SBK	72.00
6	Glenn Allerton (AUS)	ASBK	70.00
7	Ivo Lopes (POR)	ESBK	64.00
8	Kenny Foray (FRA)	FSBK	60.29
9	Ilya Mikhalchik (UKR)	IDM	58.67
10	Marc Bachelier (FRA)	FR EU	56.29

*You can find the full standings online at:

https://www.motorsport.bmw-motorrad.com

FMRRA Is Now The Pan American Superbike Series

David Swarts

-

December 15, 2021

0

FMRRA Is Now The Pan American Superbike Series

Florida Motorcycle Road Racing Association (FMRRA), Inc. Announces Rebranding and Changes Name to Pan American Superbike on the Launch of 2022 Season Championship.

New corporate name and branding reflects the company’s continued growth and future mission.

Fort Lauderdale, FL – Florida Motorcycle Road Racing Association, the premier race series in the Southeast United States, announced today to begin its seventh racing season a rebrand to its name, identity, and mission. The company is changing its corporate name to Pan American Superbike.

The rebranding reflects the company’s continued growth and long-term strategic expansion into new regions.

“Our rebranding will allow the series to bring increased value to our licensed racers, stakeholders and sponsors. As a customer-focused race series, we will bring increased racing competition with new facilities and regions to our existing racers as well as introducing the brand and our modern style format for motorcycle racing,” said Operations Director Jordan Marra

The name change comes alongside the series’ recently announced 2022 season schedule, which adds Talladega Gran Prix in Alabama and the recently repaved Carolina Motorsport Park to the existing Florida and Georgia tracks on its historic annual program schedule.

“We are looking forward to another step forward for our customers with our seventh season of racing and beginning the 2022 season with the exciting news,” said Racing Director Tony West.

ABOUT PAN AMERICAN SUPERBIKE

The Pan American Superbike series (formerly Florida Motorcycle Road Racing Association) is the premier motorcycle racing series in the Southeast United States. The company has been on the forefront of providing modern motorcycle racing with industry leading services, racer focus, and low operational racing costs. To learn more, visit www.panamsbk.com.

AHRMA Hires Grantham As Executive Director

David Swarts

-

December 15, 2021

0

AHRMA Hires Grantham As Executive Director

AHRMA Hires Craig Grantham as Executive Director

Sacramento, CA – AHRMA is pleased to announce the selection of the new AHRMA Executive Director, Craig Grantham. His start date will be December 15, 2021.

Craig Grantham has built a successful career in the consumer goods industry building and leading organizations for the past 30 years. He specializes in strategic planning, business development, process efficiency, branding and marketing, and financial discipline. He has managed and grown both large and small businesses including The Gillette Company, Del Monte, and most recently was the CEO of Deoleo N. America (Bertolli). He has been a passionate fan of and participant in the sport of motorcycling and racing for decades.

Craig and his partner Tracy Bowen are both active road racers and make their home in Roseville, California. Besides racing, they enjoy frequent cycling, equestrian sports, and enjoying time with family and friends. They are active pet parents and enjoy time and exercise with their Border Collies which keep them active daily.

AHRMA Executive Director Craig Grantham. Courtesy AHRMA.

Craig has a passion for “keeping the past fast” and has campaigned his classic Ducati motorcycles for decades. He is a past champion in the Super Dino class with other race organizations (similar to our Next Gen 2 SBK class). A member of AHRMA since 2020, he currently races this class and others. He will be attending several AHRMA events in 2022 in both a management and racing capacity, including Daytona on January 7 – 9.

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 4000 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.

Bagger Racing League: More From The Races At Sonoma Raceway

David Swarts

-

December 15, 2021

0

Bagger Racing League: More From The Races At Sonoma Raceway

Editorial Note: After Bagger Racing League (BRL) Founder Rob Buydos personally announced Cory West as the 2021 Bagger GP Champion via Instagram on Tuesday, December 15, BRL later issued the following press release:

Upon further review of the scoring and timing from our first event, Round 1 Utah, It was determined Shane Narbonne finished in the number 6 position netting 17 championship points.

At the final Round, Sonoma, Shane picked up the win totaling 25 points. His combined score of 42 points matches Saddlemen’s Cory West who finished Third in Utah and Second in Sonoma.

With the now confirmed tie in points 42 & 42. The tie breaker was determined upon the win by Shane Narbonne.

The Bagger Racing League will recognize Shane Narbonne as The 2021 Bagger GP Series Champion.

We would like to congratulate the TRASK and Shane Narbonne Team on their Championship win.

Bagger Racing League

*Stay tuned a final count of points will be released this week

More, from a press release issued by Bridgestone:

Bridgestone Tires Claim Victory in Bagger Racing League Championship during Inaugural Season

· Team Saddlemen rider Patricia Fernandez crowned F/S Cup champion on Bridgestone Racing Battlax V02 tires

· Team Saddlemen rider Cory West reaches three podiums on Bridgestone Racing Battlax V02 and Battlax T32 Sport Touring tires

· Advanced compounds & technologies in Battlax tires promote championship level performance that led to three different tread patterns reaching the podium during chilly final round of BRL at Sonoma Raceway

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Bridgestone Americas (Bridgestone) today celebrated Patricia Fernandez being crowned the 2021 F/S Cup champion on Racing Battlax V02 tires. Patricia’s Team Saddlemen teammate, Cory West, achieved a points tie for the 2021 Bagger GP class championship but ultimately wasn’t crowned champion due to tie-break rules.

Cory West (9) on his Team Saddleman Harley-Davidson. Photo courtesy Bridgestone. — Cory West (9) on his Bridgestone-shod Team Saddleman Harley-Davidson. Photo courtesy Bridgestone.

“I’m very proud to be the first female to win a race with the Bagger Racing League,” said Fernandez. “Team Saddlemen has been extremely supportive, and I’m very thankful to the Bridgestone crew for being trackside every lap to collect data that helped us boost our performance each session. The Bridgestone Racing Battlax V02 slicks gave me all the grip and confidence to push it, even in the cold conditions. I’m excited to continue our positive momentum forward and put Team Saddlemen on the podium next year.”

Patricia Fernandez (87) on her Team Saddleman Indian at Sonoma Raceway. Photo courtesy Bridgestone.

“It’s an honor to have tied for the points lead in the Bagger GP class,” said West. “The Saddlemen team prepped an amazing Harley Davidson that landed us on the podium both rounds, and we couldn’t have done it without the support of Bridgestone tires. The Bridgestone Racing Battlax V02 slicks gave me tons of confidence and feel to push to the absolute limit on these big machines.”

“It’s been a thrill to be a part of the Bagger Racing League series and for our seat company to come out on top is amazing,” said Dave Echert, Team Saddlemen Owner. “This accomplishment was only possible because of great partners like Bridgestone and others that helped us build and spec out the bikes as well as the relentless effort of Team Saddlemen.”

The versatility of the Bridgestone Battlax family of tires was on full display as podiums were achieved in the final round of the BRL series on three different Battlax patterns; Racing Battlax V02, Battlax Racing R11, and Battlax T32 Sport Touring street tire. The Battlax family of tires was originally launched in 1983, and continual development has led to a long history of winning at the highest levels of racing including MotoGP and FIM EWC. Now, a BRL championship is part of Battlax’s legacy.

Chris Wiggins got third in the Lite Weight Twins class. Photo courtesy Bridgestone. — Chris Wiggins (09) got third in the Lite Weight Twins class on a Buell. Photo courtesy Bridgestone.

“The Bridgestone team is extremely proud of Patricia for winning a championship in Bagger Racing League’s inaugural season,” said Jared Williams, General Manager, Bridgestone Motorcycle Tire Business in the United States and Canada. “With Cory’s three podiums on Battlax V02 and Battlax T32 Sport Touring tires, and add in Chris Wiggins’ podium on the Bridgestone Battlax Racing R11 in the Lite Weight Twins class, and it’s clear why riders choose our tires… Bridgestone wins. We’re looking forward to even more excitement in the 2022 season.”

For more information, visit BridgestoneMotorcycleTires.com.

About Bridgestone Americas, Inc.:

Bridgestone Americas, Inc. is the U.S.-based subsidiary of Bridgestone Corporation, a global leader in tires and rubber, building on its expertise to provide solutions for safe and sustainable mobility. Headquartered in Nashville, Tenn., Bridgestone Americas employs more than 50,000 people across its worldwide operations. Bridgestone offers a diverse product portfolio of premium tires and advanced solutions backed by innovative technologies, improving the way people around the world move, live, work and play.

More, from a press release issued by Pirelli:

Shane Narbonne Takes Pirelli to the Top Step of the Podium and Captures Bagger Racing League Championship at Sonoma

Narbonne’s Trask Performance Harley-Davidson Relies on Pirelli’s DIABLO Superbike SC1 Front and Rear Slicks to Capture Custom Dynamics GP Bagger Victory

Shane Narbonne (86) at speed on the Trask Performance Harley-Davidson at Sonoma Raceway. Photo courtesy Trask Performance.

SONOMA, Calif. (December 15, 2021) – Pirelli Tire North America carried its momentum into the Bagger Racing League season finale at Sonoma Raceway on Saturday, December 11 by once again capturing the top step of the podium thanks to an impressive performance by Trask Performance’s Shane Narbonne. Competing aboard a Harley-Davidson equipped with Pirelli DIABLO Superbike slicks, Narbonne would prove to be the star of the weekend by capturing the Custom Dynamics GP Bagger class win, which was enough to crown him 2022 Custom Dynamics GP Bagger class champion.

“First off, I just want to give a huge thank you to Pirelli for coming on board with my racing program,” said Narbonne. “It’s my first year working with Pirelli and this past weekend was an incredible time working with Oscar [Solis] to get my bike working great with the sticky tire, even though we had cool temperatures. We had a great tire choice for the race and the tires worked amazing the entire time, which allowed me to take the Bagger GP victory!”

Shane Narbonne on the BRL Bagger GP podium at Sonoma Raceway. Photo courtesy Pirelli.

Narbonne consistently set the pace throughout the weekend by capturing pole position and the fastest lap of the weekend using a Pirelli DIABLO Superbike SC1 front slick in 120/70R17 sizing and a DIABLO Superbike SC1 rear slick in 190/60R17 sizing. He would overcome a mid-race charge from his competitors and use excellent late-race speed and grip to prevail. The race-winning performance helped clinch the class championship and prove Pirelli’s capability in bagger racing.

“What an experience! This series presented a lot of challenges to the tires but that’s where we thrive,” said Oscar Solis, senior racing manager, Pirelli. “We had zero laps of testing to start the opening round of the Bagger Racing League. From the hot and fast Utah round to the cold and difficult Sonoma round, Pirelli riders kept their head down and put all their trust in their Pirelli DIABLO Superbike slicks. Congrats to Shane who really pours his heart into our sport. He had a great start and faded a bit but kept pushing and was able to take the win and eventually the championship!”

Pirelli continues to set the bar in road racing throughout North America, and when spec tire rules do not apply, has been the go-to tire choice for racers looking to reach the top step of the podium. Pirelli’s success in the Bagger Racing League has been no exception, with wins at both the Utah and Sonoma rounds as well as setting the fastest lap time of the weekend both times.

RESULTS

Sonoma Raceway – Sonoma, California

December 11, 2021

Custom Dynamics Bagger GP

Shane Narbonne
Cory West
Ben Bostrom

Click Here for full results from the Bagger Racing League event at Sonoma Raceway.

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

American Flat Track Announces “Production Twins Challenge”

David Swarts

-

December 15, 2021

0

American Flat Track Announces “Production Twins Challenge”

PROGRESSIVE AFT ANNOUNCES 2022 MISSION PRODUCTION TWINS CHALLENGE TO PREPARE FOR UNIFIED PREMIER CLASS IN 2023

Mission Foods pledges $54,800 in direct support for riders during the transitional 2022 season

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (December 15, 2021) – Progressive American Flat Track announced today the technical rules for the 2022 season and the debut of the Mission Production Twins Challenge. These developments lay the groundwork for merging the Mission SuperTwins and AFT Production Twins classes in 2023.

To successfully combine the two existing twin-cylinder classes into a dynamic premier class in 2023, Progressive AFT has implemented a set of technical adjustments in Mission SuperTwins and AFT Production Twins for 2022 that will align the performance envelopes of production-based and race-only machines.

While the technical changes serve as the first step to a single twin-cylinder championship, the Mission Production Twins Challenge will act as a bridge between the classes in 2022. Following the AFT Production Twins Main at each event, the top four finishers will be granted provisional starting positions for the Mission SuperTwins Main Event on a dedicated Mission Production Twins Challenge row. The inclusion of the top AFT Production Twins entries in the premier-class Main will allow for repeated head-to-head comparisons between the Mission SuperTwins contenders and the most competitive AFT Production Twins machines, providing critical data to guide the future evolution of the technical rules.

Along with acting as an ongoing evaluation program, the Mission Production Twins Challenge will aid in the development efforts of AFT Production Twins teams by providing an opportunity to earn over $100,000 throughout the season. The top Mission Production Twins Challenge riders at each round will be eligible to earn $72,000 in potential Mission SuperTwins purse payouts plus $28,800 in race bonus awards from Mission Foods.

In addition, the top three riders in the Mission Production Twins Challenge point standings at the conclusion of the season will also be eligible for a $26,000 year-end points fund from Mission Foods. To qualify for the year-end bonus, Mission Production Twins Challenge riders must compete in every Mission SuperTwins Main Event for which they are eligible.

“We are committed to providing a level playing field for manufacturers and teams to compete at the sport’s highest level,” said Gene Crouch, COO of Progressive American Flat Track. “Mission Foods shares that vision, and we truly appreciate the support they’ve pledged as we work towards a unified Mission SuperTwins class in 2023.”

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

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

About Progressive American Flat Track

Progressive American Flat Track is the world’s premier dirt track motorcycle racing series and one of the longest-running championships in the history of motorsports. Sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing in Daytona Beach, Fla., the series is highly regarded as the most competitive form of dirt track motorcycle racing on the globe. For more information on Progressive American Flat Track, please visit us on the web, like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, check us out on Instagram, live stream the events with TrackPass on NBC Sports Gold and catch all the Progressive American Flat Track racing action on NBCSN.

E-Xplorer SA To Promote FIM E-Xplorer World Cup Electric Racing Series

December 17, 2021

A KTM Freeride E-XC electric off-road bike in action. Photo courtesy KTM.