The 2021 Canadian Superbike Championship wrapped up this weekend at Calabogie Motorsports Park with Ben Young claiming 2nd place overall.
Coming into the final two races at Calabogie, expectations were high, and Young knew it wouldn’t be an easy battle – Dumas had won the opening two races at the same venue. Within the second practice, Young had improved his times from the first round, showing his hunger for the weekend.
A shortened race weekend meant Young was on track Friday and Saturday only, leaving very little time to work on the set up of the Van Dolder’s Home Team BMW S1000RR. Despite this, Young took 2nd place on the grid, only 0.171 seconds off pole position. This closeness would give an idea of just how competitive the racing would be, and it didn’t disappoint.
Young charged hard off of the line of race one. He maintained a close second position for the entirety of the race. Due to the high speed at such a technical track, Young couldn’t make any attempts to take first stick, and he crossed the line with a solid 2nd place and a blistering fastest lap of 2:00:836, a time which hasn’t been seen in years at Calabogie.
In race two, Young took the hole-shot heading in to the first corner, but unfortunately, the race was red-flagged on the second lap. The restarted race was shortened to an 8-lap dash in which Young had less success getting off the line. Despite heading into turn 1 in 4th place, Young made it into second position in short order though a second behind Dumas in first. Young again took the fastest lap in his chase of first, but ultimately couldn’t take the lead finishing 2nd again.
“It wasn’t quite the season finish we hoped for, but we knew it wouldn’t be easy. Considering that we took a year out in 2020 due to COVID, having a new bike and dealing with some gremlins, we are delighted with 2nd place in the championship. The team and I worked really hard right to the end, and it just makes us hungrier for next year. ”
Young’s partners for his 2021 CSBK Championship season include; BMW Motorrad Canada, Van Dolder’s Home Team, Scot-Build Developments Inc, Parts Canada, HJC Helmets, Alpinestars, Motul, Hindle Exhaust, Barrie Trim and Mouldings, Alpha Racing and Vass Performance Cycle.
To keep up-to-date on Ben Young throughout the year visit; www.BenYoungRacing.com, www.facebook.com/BenYoungRacing and on Twitter and Instagram: @benyoung_86
Featured In the September 2021 issue of Roadracing World:
Hector Barbera shot to the top of motorcycle road racing and spent 17 seasons in the Grand Prix World Championships. But now the 34-year-old from Spain is looking to take a page out of countryman Toni Elias’ book and write a new chapter for himself in MotoAmerica Superbike…
—Hanging With: Hector Barbera, by David Swarts.
After years of success in trials, racing officials urged Hector Barbera’s family to enter him in road races, and he was instantly successful. All these years later, and Barbera’s desire to win is just as strong, and he’s brought that will to win to MotoAmerica. Read the back story of one of racing’s more compelling characters – in the latest Roadracing World!
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Unofficial Combined Lap Times From Both Days (all on Michelin tires):
Francesco Bagnaia, Italy (Ducati), 1:31.524
Aleix Espargaro, Spain (Aprilia), 1:31.584
Pol Espargaro, Spain (Honda), 1:31.631
Joan Mir, Spain (Suzuki), 1:31.707
Takaaki Nakagami, Japan (Honda), 1:31.735
Jack Miller, Australia (Ducati), 1:31.798
Fabio Quartararo, France (Yamaha), 1:31.959
Luca Marini, Italy (Ducati), 1:31.998
Maverick Vinales, Spain (Aprilia), 1:32.002
Jorge Martin, Spain (Ducati), 1:32.135
Miguel Oliveira, Portugal (KTM), 1:32.136
Marc Marquez, Spain (Honda), 1:32.151
Brad Binder, South Africa (KTM), 1:32.169
Valentino Rossi, Italy (Yamaha), 1:32.170
Alex Marquez, Spain (Honda), 1:32.259
Michele Pirro, Italy (Ducati), 1:32.331*
Johann Zarco, France (Ducati), 1:32.348
Alex Rins, Spain (Suzuki), 1:32.352
Franco Morbidelli, Italy (Yamaha), 1:32.635
Andrea Dovizioso, Italy (Yamaha), 1:32.665
Iker Lecuona, Spain (KTM), 1:32.751
Enea Bastianini, Italy (Ducati), 1:32.837
Dani Pedrosa, Spain (KTM), 1:32.959*
Danilo Petrucci, Italy (KTM), 1:33.526
Raul Fernandez, Spain (KTM), 1:33.988*
Lorenzo Savadori, Italy (Aprilia), 1:34.043*
Sylvain Guintoli, France (Suzuki), 1:34.141*
Stefan Bradl, Germany (Honda), 1:34.280*
Remy Gardner, Australia (KTM), 1:34.641*
*=test rider
More, from a press release issued by Dorna:
Aprilia top Day 2, Honda continue stealing the headlines at Misano
Aleix Espargaro just shadows Pecco’s Day 1 best on the timesheets, and there’s plenty more to talk about as Day 2 of testing concludes
Wednesday, 22 September 2021
Aprilia’s Aleix Espargaro (41) was quickest on Day Two. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Much to everyone’s delight, the weather played ball on Day 2 of the Official Misano MotoGP™ Test as every factory was able to get some valuable track time under their belts, with more new parts introduced on Wednesday. Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) finishes top of the combined timesheets thanks to his 1:31.524 on Day 1, but it’s Aleix Espargaro and Aprilia Racing Team Gresini who reigned the timesheets on Day 2, 0.080 ahead of Bagnaia’s Wednesday best as the Italian remained consistently quick.
The two-day schedule mainly made headlines for the new parts and upgrades on show, however, and no one had more to test than Honda. Test rider Stefan Bradl rolled out of the garage on a damp Tuesday morning with a radically new RC213V, with Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda Team) heading out on it in the afternoon when conditions cleared. The most noticeable differences from the outside were the air intake shape, the tail unit and the exhaust positioning.
Pol Espargaro (44). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Then, on Wednesday morning, Pol Espargaro (Repsol Honda Team) ventured out on the bike Marc Marquez and Bradl had been seen using, while the number 93 also lapped on another new Honda – slightly different once again, with a different air intake. Marc Marquez was also out on the new bike with the current 2021 aero package that Honda have been using since the German GP, with Pol Espargaro testing it with the new aero. He did his best lap in the FP4 Wednesday session on a new bike too, a 1:32.105. He ended Day 2 sixth with a better lap from the morning, with teammate MM93 in 10th.
LCR Honda boss Lucio Cecchinello revealed that Alex Marquez (LCR Honda Castrol) has been working on his bike’s weight distribution, and they’ve found a setting that he feels more comfortable with. The two-time World Champion was also back-to-back testing the regular, carbon bonded chassis and the chassis that Marc Marquez and Espargaro have been using on and off since Assen. Takaaki Nakagami (LCR Honda Idemitsu) – again according to Cecchinello – was working with the aero package that was first seen at the Sachsenring, and both of his bikes were fitted with the carbon-bonded HRC chassis. The Japanese rider impressed to end Wednesday fourth on a 1:31.735.
Jack Miller (43). Photo courtesy Dorna.
On Day 1 at Ducati, the Bologna marque unveiled two new aero packages. The first very similar to the one they’re using in 2021, but the second splits the second winglet into two different elements, meaning the aero package has four elements in total when including the downwash duct at the bottom of the fairing.
Bagnaia and Jack Miller (Ducati Lenovo Team) were back-to-back testing the different aero packages across the two days at Misano, with a Day 1 crash not affecting Pecco’s schedule. The Italian called it a day just before lunch on Wednesday, in second with a 0.080 deficit to Aleix Espargaro. Miller ended Day 2 in fifth.
Jorge Martin (Pramac Racing) tested Ducati’s new aero as well as the factory duo, whereas teammate Johann Zarco went home after Day 1 to have arm pump surgery – successfully completed – and the Frenchman was replaced by test rider Michele Pirro.
It wasn’t the ideal test for San Marino podium finisher Enea Bastianini (Avintia Esponsorama). The Italian suffered a crash on both Day 1 and Day 2, the second seeing him sit out the rest of Wednesday, but rider ok. Bastianini’s teammate Luca Marini (Sky VR46 Avintia) had a very successful test, however, and the Italian was able to lap quicker than he went all weekend at the San Marino GP.
Alex Rins (42) with a new chassis. Photo courtesy Dorna.
At Suzuki, reigning World Champion Joan Mir and Team Suzuki Ecstar teammate Alex Rins were both impressed by the new chassis Suzuki brought to the Misano Test on Day 2. So much so, it may be seen on their GSX-RRs in 2021. The new chassis has a carbon bond at the top, unlike the current one.
In addition, Suzuki were testing the 2022 engine that we first saw at the pre-season Qatar Tests. Test rider Sylvain Guintoli joined Mir and Rins on Wednesday fresh from his Bol D’Or win, as we witnessed Suzuki also unveil a new side fairing.
Joan Mir (36) with a new side fairing. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Mir was able to improve something on the braking side of things that he’s been missing all season on Day 2, and the number 36 was third on Wednesday. Rins confirmed that the 2022 engine seems a bit more powerful, but the aero package needs adjusting to match the extra power. Rins also said that he did a couple of long runs, one with the rear ride height device, and it looked like he was quicker with the device fitted – overall a solid test for Suzuki.
Meanwhile, current World Championship leaders Yamaha had a new chassis to try, but Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Team Manager Massimo Meregalli said that 2022 wasn’t their main focus across the two days. Fabio Quartararo was able to give the 2022 prototype a shakedown on Tuesday, before switching his attention to finding some improvements for the second Misano race coming up in October. He was seventh on Day 2.
Franco Morbidelli (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) was unhurt in two crashes on Day 2 as the Italian continued his adaptation to the 2021 YZR-M1, as well as working his way back to full fitness. Morbidelli felt better than he did during the San Marino GP according to Meregalli, especially with the front end. 70 laps were completed by Morbidelli on Tuesday and Wednesday, now it’s time for some rest ahead of the Americas GP.
This was Valentino Rossi’s (46) final test as a full-time MotoGP rider. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Valentino Rossi (Petronas Yamaha SRT) took part in his final test as a full-time rider on home turf, and on the agenda for the nine-time World Champion was electronic settings, to try and sort out the traction issues he’s been facing. New teammate Andrea Dovizioso’s main aim was to simply get used to his new bike. The Italian did end up testing a carbon swingarm on Day 2, as Dovizioso completed a mammoth 130 laps across the two days.
Meregalli also confirmed that Yamaha test rider Cal Crutchlow will be in Aragon for two days to test the 2022 bike, before heading to Jerez soon after for a three-day test. The British rider will be busy putting next year’s YZR-M1 through its paces over the next couple of months before the 2022 pre-season test in Jerez after the Valencia GP.
KTM’s Miguel Oliveira (88). Photo courtesy Dorna.
After a quiet opening day, Day 2 was a busy one for KTM. A new aero package and air intake were introduced: the intake is bigger and the aero package has an additional set of wings further down than the 2021 RC16. Additionally, Miguel Oliveira (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) had another all-black bike but the aero, air intake and shape of the fairings is the same as the regular bike – which could mean the Austrian factory had something new internally. Oliveira was ninth on Day 2 and teammate Brad Binder 12th.
Remy Gardner (87). Photo courtesy Dorna.
The other major news on Day 2 was the debut of Moto2™ title contenders Remy Gardner (Red Bull KTM Ajo) and teammate Raul Fernandez. Both will be stepping into the Tech3 KTM Factory Racing ranks at the end of the season, and unsurprisingly, the duo more than enjoyed their first outing on a MotoGP™ bike. Both were impressive in terms of pace despite Gardner having a crash, and Fernandez finished the day just over two seconds off the fastest time set by Aleix Espargaro.
Raul Fernandez (25). Photo courtesy Dorna.
For Aprilia, the timesheets told a good story, and the Noale factory first rolled out some new, smaller, thinner aero on test rider Lorenzo Savadori’s bike on the opening day of testing. Maverick Viñales (Aprilia Racing Team Gresini) was the first rider on track as the Spaniard continued to adapt to his new bike, trying different set-ups, and he was able to improve the overall pace. Finding 0.7s, the number 12 made good progress across the two days and finished Wednesday in P8. Viñales didn’t try anything for 2022 in the 149 laps he notched up during the test.
Aleix Espargaro, meanwhile, tried some new aerodynamic configurations and other new parts for the 2022 bike, including a couple of evolutions of the front fairing. The Spaniard confirmed he and Aprilia have made a step forward, with the fastest lap of the day bearing good witness.
A busy, exciting and very interesting Misano Test has drawn to a close! Next up for the MotoGP™ paddock is a trip to Austin and the Circuit of the Americas for Round 15 of the 2021 World Championship, so make sure to join us next weekend for the horsepower rodeo.
Iker Garcia Abella Claims Inaugural Yamaha R3 bLU cRU European Cup Title
In a nail-biting Yamaha R3 bLU cRU European Cup finale at Barcelona, Spain’s Iker Garcia Abella was crowned the inaugural champion, and so earns a supported spot on the FIM Supersport 300 World Championship grid for 2022.
Garcia Abella’s Race 1 victory and his solid seventh-place result in the wet Race 2 saw him lift the title by four points over fellow countryman Julian Giral. Britain’s Fenton Seabright won the final race of the year, seeing him end the season third in the championship standings.
Both Seabright and Giral will get a 50 percent discount on their 2022 Yamaha R3 bLU cRU European Cup campaigns, while the latter will also have the chance to ride a wildcard event in WorldSSP300 next year.
Heading into the final weekend, five riders were all in with a chance of lifting the trophy, with Giral leading Garcia Abella, Slovakia’s Maxim Repak, Seabright and Spain’s Juan Antonio Conesa.
In Free Practice, Conesa headed Garcia Abella and Giral, while Marc Vich Gil meant four Spanish riders locked out the top four positions. Greek rider Ioannis Konstantinos Peristeras was fifth quickest, ahead of Seabright, while Repak started on the backfoot in 10th.
By the time Superpole rolled around though, all five of the title contenders qualified on the first two rows of the grid. 14-year-old Conesa scored his first pole position, with Seabright in second and Garcia Abella in third. Repak had made a step forward to line-up fourth, with Giral behind Peristeras in sixth.
In Race 1, the lead group consisted of 12 riders, with the five contenders all amongst the fight. That was until lap seven, when a multi-bike incident saw four riders DNF, including Repak, effectively dropping him from the championship running. The incident saw the top three pull a gap over the field, with Giral, Garcia Abella and Seabright all chasing the win.
Giral took the chequered flag first, but was handed a penalty for track limits on the final lap, which promoted Garcia Abella to the victory, with Seabright scoring a podium in third.
“It was a very difficult race, because in the first part there was a big group,” Garcia Abella said. “We went really fast and managed to pull a gap. On the last lap, my strategy was to pass Julian in the last corners, but it wasn’t possible. I was angry at the time, but when I got into parc fermé I was happy to get the win in the end.”
These results meant it was a two-way battle for the title in Race 2, with just one point separating Garcia Abella and Giral.
The wet conditions in Race 2 added to the suspense, and neither rider could find the pace to challenge for the lead. Peristeras and Seabright pulled away from the field, with Conesa settling into third. Meanwhile, Garcia Abella and Giral found themselves in a battle with several riders over fourth, with neither wanting to take any unnecessary risks over the nine-lap race.
In the end, Seabright took victory, with Peristeras scoring his best result in second. Conesa completed the podium, with Vich Gil crossing the line in fourth. Garcia Abella eventually came home in seventh, but with Giral only managing 10th, the 17-year-old was crowned champion.
“I am very, very happy. It’s an incredible feeling that I have now,” Garcia Abella said. “The day was really difficult, because in the first race I win but I only had one point to Giral. The rain was really hard and I was nervous going into the final laps, but I’m so happy to be the first champion. If I have a good motorbike, I know I can do good results in the WorldSSP300 championship.”
That concludes the inaugural Yamaha R3 bLU cRU European Cup season, which featured some thrilling races in support of the FIM Superbike World Championship. Registrations for the 2022 edition are set to open on 6th October, so stay tuned for updates.
Andrea Dosoli
Yamaha Motor Europe, Road Racing Manager
“Five riders headed into the weekend with a chance at the title. Considering the young age of these kids, and also the variable weather conditions, I must congratulate all of them for the way they managed the weekend. An incredible result for Iker for having won Race 1 and managing a solid result in Race 2, which were run in difficult conditions. This saw him become the first Yamaha R3 bLU cRU European Cup champion. Also congratulations to Fenton on his victory, he has been fantastic this year. We can be very proud of this first season of the Cup, where we have enjoyed races at a very high level, proving the value of this series, and I would like to thank all the people involved: the organisers, Gianluca Montiron, Alberto Barozzi. I would also like to wish all of these youngsters the best in their future careers. After the success of this year, it’s been nice to see the worldwide interest and soon the registration will open to welcome new youngsters, as well as hopefully welcome back some of the riders from this year.”
A different kind of horsepower: WorldSBK’s ferocious title fight gallops to Jerez
On the edge and on the limit, just one point separates Razgatlioglu and Rea as Andalusia awaits
The 2021 MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship rumbles into the tenth round and the Circuito de Jerez – Angel Nieto in Andalusia, Spain. The Motul Spanish Round will see the 100th WorldSBK race in Spain and welcomed the Championship to the country for the first time back in 1990. At the head of the field, Toprak Razgatlioglu (Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK) has a miniscule one-point lead of title rival and defending six-time World Champion Jonathan Rea (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK), as both push each other to new levels each round in a style never seen before. Not wanting to give an inch and aiming to beat each other to the next corner, let alone just the race, something special awaits at Jerez.
A DUEL TO REMEMBER: Razgatlioglu vs Rea continues
Aiming for a perfect ten in the beautiful south, Toprak Razgatlioglu is hoping to get back to winning ways at Jerez, having not been able to grab a victory at Catalunya. Currently on eight wins for the season, the Turkish sensation is within striking distance of getting to double figures, which would make him the first Yamaha WorldSBK rider to reach this tally in one season. Struck by mechanical problems in Catalunya’s Race 1 and in the Tissot Superpole Race at Jerez in 2020, he hopes that his luck improves this weekend. Teammate Andrea Locatelli is in the mix and after a tricky Catalunya, heads to a circuit he knows well with the aim of helping Toprak as well as returning to the rostrum.
In the slipstream of his title rival, Jonathan Rea knows that Jerez is vital. A track of which he was a winner at in 2020 in but also a track where high track temperatures aren’t favourable for Kawasaki, it’s hard to tell how the weekend will go. Rea’s form however speaks for itself at the Spanish track, with three wins and seven podiums, although he’s only made it to the podium three times out of the last six races held there, only taking one win in the same period. With the Championship so tight at the top, every point matters for Rea, who comes into the round off the back of a sixth place in Race 2 at Catalunya and where high track temperatures once again played a part. Teammate Alex Lowes couldn’t crack the top six at Jerez in 2020 and seeks a first full-race podium since Donington Park.
RED HOT, RED PAINT: Ducati the ones to beat in the heat?
Perhaps Jerez will be painted red for a second year running; Scott Redding (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) is 60 points behind Razgatlioglu but with high track temperatures expected, it may favour the British star and the Ducati Panigale V4 R. Although admitting that they struggle in heat, the capacity to cope with such temperatures seems better for Ducati riders, who maintain a stable race pace and come strong at the end. An inspired tyre choice saw both he and Catalunya Race 2 winner Michael Ruben Rinaldi (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) opt for the SC0 rear tyre instead of the SCX used by their opponents, a choice that gave them a double podium. Redding won twice at Jerez in 2020 with high temperatures, heading a Ducati 1-2. Crucial for title aspirations and the manufacturer standings – Ducati trail leaders Yamaha by just a point – could the Ducati riders be the ones to watch?
BAUTISTA BRILLIANCE: Honda ready to challenge at the front again?
In good form and getting stronger, Alvaro Bautista (Team HRC) is starting to show the potential of the Honda project, having been right in contention during the dry Sunday running in Barcelona. A return to the podium in the Superpole Race and a solid fourth in Race 2, Bautista wishes for more of the same at Jerez. Having recently completed a private test at the Andalusian venue, he and teammate Leon Haslam could well be in a prime position to make hay whilst the sun shines over the Honda box. Haslam also showed strength at Catalunya and both riders were competitive at Jerez in 2020; could we see them in contention once more?
BMW FIGHTBACK: will Jerez see a surprise?
The BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team head to Jerez with mixed thoughts, with Tom Sykes’ participation to be confirmed following his Race 2 crash at Catalunya that brought out the Red Flag and left him with severe concussion. Teammate Michael van der Mark is the lead rider heading to Jerez, a circuit he won at back in 2019, his last full-race victory to-date. He is five points clear of Sykes in the standings and just 29 from a top five placing overall. Firmly in the battle and heading to a track where he took a podium in 2020, van der Mark will be keen to shine.
CLOSING UP: the Independent battle isn’t so nailed on after all…
The Independent battle is alive and kicking with the top two getting closer; Axel Bassani’s podium coupled with Garrett Gerloff’s Race 1 sighting lap crash means just 26 points split the pair, Gerloff ahead. Chaz Davies (Team GoEleven) is out for Jerez, replaced by 2020 podium-finisher and current MotoAmerica star Loris Baz. The Frenchman is back in action at a circuit he took two top five finishes at in 2020. Lucas Mahias (Kawasaki Puccetti Racing) is the next Independent in 14th overall, just a point clear of Japanese rookie Kohta Nozane (GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team). At Catalunya, Nozane was top Yamaha in Race 1 and took his first top ten in a full-distance race.
Outside of the main protagonists, Isaac Viñales (ORELAC Racing VerdNatura) hopes he can continue his progress, whilst Christophe Ponsson comes to Jerez off the back of his first ever top ten finish in WorldSBK after Catalunya’s Superpole Race. Jonas Folger (Bonovo MGM Racing) aims to return to the points at a circuit he won at in 2015’s Moto2™ season, whereas Leandro Mercado (MIE Racing Honda Team) aims to build on a first top ten of 2021 at Catalunya. Samuele Cavalieri (Barni Racing Team) returns to action, whilst Loris Cresson (OUTDO TPR Team Pedercini Racing) heads for Jerez with Lachlan Epis as teammate once again. Two extra riders for the weekend: Marvin Fritz (IXS-YART Yamaha) and Andrea Mantovani (Vince64) both join the field again.
Brea, CA (September 22, 2021) – Introducing the all-new 2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000GT. Suzuki Motor USA, LLC (Suzuki) is thrilled to unveil a high-performance motorcycle with a soul of a champion that delivers features and technologies enhancing any long-distance sport tour. A high-performance, yet comfortable motorcycle with optional attractive integrated side cases (or standard as part of the GSX-S1000GT+ model) and a sophisticated, avant-garde look that creates its own category – Grand Touring – ready to take the rider any distance with speed and comfort.
The GSX-S1000GT’s total performance is transformative, breaking new ground for a sport touring motorcycle, and the new SUZUKI mySPIN connectivity application integrates with a large, full-color TFT instrument panel to provide easy access to a wide range of smartphone information and entertainment options augmenting any ride.
A 2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000GT at speed. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
Using legendary and proven GSX-R engine architecture, the 999cc four-stroke, liquid-cooled DOHC in-line four superbike engine delivers smooth, consistent power throughout a wide and linear powerband.
The GSX-S1000GT’s engine offers multiple updated components to best deliver performance where a Grand Touring rider demands it. Enhancements to the engine include revised intake and exhaust camshafts, cam chain tensioners and valve springs, as well as a redesigned clutch and gearshift components.
All updated to take the best aspects of GSX-R championship-winning engineering and apply it to the real-world demands of riders seeking spectacular performance and tractability for high-mileage tours on challenging, exciting roads. All delivering an even broader, smoother torque curve with fewer peaks and valleys. These components also help enhance performance versus the prior model while delivering full Euro 5 emissions compliance.
The profile of a 2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000GT. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
Refined engine performance is managed by expanded Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (SIRS) technology, including electronic cruise control, five modes of adjustable traction control* and bi-directional clutchless quick-shifting, helping augment sport rides on Sunday mornings as well as cross-continent tours. SIRS is rounded out with an updated Low RPM Assist system and Suzuki’s Easy Start System, providing improved starting control and a simpler starting procedure.
The strong twin-spar aluminum frame and braced swingarm help deliver agile handling and great road-holding ability. Visually attractive, the new trellis-style sub-frame design creates secure attachment points for the high capacity 36L side cases, while allowing for a more comfortable passenger seat.
Color-matched side cases are optional on the Suzuki GSX-S1000GT and standard on the GSX-S1000GT+. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
The GSX-S1000GT’s suspension control will also easily adapt to the needs of two-up riding, thanks to its fully adjustable, inverted KYB fork and easy-to-adjust rear shock. The dual, ABS-equipped**, radial-mounted, four-piston, Brembo-front brake calipers and 310mm floating rotors help provide the confident, controlled stopping performance needed when travelling with a passenger and gear on an extended ride.
Comfort is vital for miles of effortless grand touring performance, and the GSX-S1000GT is ready to conquer high performance rides of any distance. The new cast-aluminum handlebar is wider than the prior bike’s handlebar, and is shaped and positioned for a comfortable reach, delivering the proper leverage to guide the GSX-S1000GT on any road. The handlebar’s special rubber mount damps vibration while the footrests have durable rubber inserts to damp vibration to the rider’s and passenger’s boots. The GT emphasizes long ride comfort as well as exhilaration.
The 2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000GT has new seats for rider and passenger. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
The rider and passenger seats have a new sporty design maximizing comfort on long rides, and both seats sport a new cover material that balances grip with freedom of movement. The rider’s seat-shape further enhances freedom of movement, while the pillion seat design maximizes passenger comfort and integrates well with the new grab-bar design.
Despite their spacious storage capacity, the GT’s large-capacity side cases (Optional on the GSX-S1000GT, and standard on the GSX-S1000GT+) feature a compact design that integrates seamlessly with the motorcycle’s sharp, futuristic styling. With 36L of storage capacity, each side case may hold most full-face helmets. To further integrate them to the motorcycle, an optional color-matched side case painted panel set provides a perfect match to the GSX-S1000GT body colors. Optional locksets are available that may be set so the motorcycle’s ignition key opens the side case lid or disengages the quick-release mechanism. Side cases and mounts, color-matched painted panel sets, and side case lock sets are standard on the GSX-S1000GT+.
The GSX-S1000GT puts a new face on sport touring performance and comfort. The striking and original face of the GT begins with a raked nose, while a pair of horizontally arranged LED headlights, V-shaped position light, new mirror design, and side-mounted LED turn signals fashion a unique Grand Touring appearance that is distinctively Suzuki. The GT’s daring styling continues into the standard side cases and optional touring windshield for a fully integrated appearance.
The view from the cockpit of a 2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000GT. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
The GSX-S1000GT’s instrument panel uses a new-generation 6.5-inch, full-color TFT LCD screen. Developed specifically for use on motorcycles, this large TFT display is the first of its kind on a Suzuki motorcycle. This high-quality instrument panel is set into the inner fairing above the handlebars, for great visibility and protection from debris. The brightness-adjustable TFT panel features a scratch-resistant surface and an anti-reflective coating that help improves visibility in bright light.
The TFT display uses GSX-S1000GT-exclusive graphics, including blue background lines that add an extra visual touch to help convey Suzuki’s spirit and brand identity. An additional feature of the TFT screen is a brief custom animation that plays when the ignition key is switched on. This playful presentation is pleasing to the eye and builds excitement for the ride to come.
The TFT readouts include: Speedometer (digital), RPM indicator (shift light), Tachometer (analog format), Transmission gear position, Fuel gauge, Coolant temperature, Ambient air temperature, Cruise control setting, SDMS mode, Traction control mode, Quick Shift (ON/OFF), Voltmeter, Clock (12-hour format), Odometer, Dual trip meter, Average fuel consumption (Trip 1 & 2), Instant fuel consumption, Riding range (per fuel onboard), Smartphone battery level, Smartphone connection status, and Rider-passenger intercommunication status (Bluetooth®).
The TFT display was developed to provide smartphone connectivity through the SUZUKI mySPIN application. While competitive models use systems originally developed for automobiles, the GSX-S1000GT adopts hardware and software designed specifically for the demands of motorcycle use. As such, SUZUKI mySPIN works seamlessly on the TFT screen to enrich the functionality of smartphone connectivity. The GSX-S1000GT’s smart cockpit blends riding and vehicle status updates, such as the speedometer and tachometer readouts, with pertinent information, communication, and entertainment from the rider’s smartphone.
Located to the left of the instrument panel is a USB outlet the rider may use to connect an iOS or AndroidTM smartphone to the TFT panel. The data connection can also be established via Wireless LAN and Bluetooth. The USB outlet can also charge the smartphone’s battery.
Available through the Apple App Store or Google Play, riders can install the free SUZUKI mySPIN app on their smartphone. Once installed, mySPIN provides an array of useful functions from five bundled applications specifically developed for motorcycle use.
The mySPIN system applications include Contacts, Phone, Maps, Music, and Calendar
Contacts – the system can access the contacts application on the smartphone and inform the rider who is calling. Calls can also be placed by selecting a contact from the list.
Phone – conveniently, the system can place phone calls, either dialed directly or from the contacts application, and can display the rider’s call history, all without stopping the bike.
Maps – the rider can view his or her current location on the map without having to download any third-party map application or data. The Suzuki Map can search for destinations and get routing information, all while allowing the rider to easily navigate from screen to screen by using the switches on the left handlebar.
Music & Content – the rider can use a Bluetooth headset to listen to music, podcasts, or other content from his or her smartphone’s library; the passenger can listen, as well, if they are wearing a Bluetooth headset wirelessly connected to the system.
Calendar – the rider can display calendar entries from his or her smartphone on the TFT screen, checking scheduled events and reminders.
The GT’s body colors include majestic Metallic Reflective Blue, and the sleek Glass Sparkle Black, each set off with distinctive GT logos, indelibly stamping the 2022 GSX-S1000GT and GT+ as motorcycling’s newest and most sophisticated, high-performance Grand Touring leaders. Manufacturer’s Suggested Pricing for both models will be announced.
The all-new 2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000GT and GSX-S1000GT+ will be available in Suzuki dealers in early 2022. For more information, please visit the Suzuki website.
*The Traction Control System is not a substitute for the rider’s throttle control. It cannot prevent loss of traction due to excessive speed when the rider enters a turn and/or applies the brakes. Neither can it prevent the front wheel from losing grip.
**Depending on road surface conditions, such as wet, loose, or uneven roads, braking distance for an ABS-equipped vehicle may be longer than for a vehicle not equipped with ABS. ABS cannot prevent wheel skidding caused by braking while cornering. Please ride carefully and do not overly rely on ABS.
Suzuki mySPIN related disclaimers:
Headsets sold separately.
Smartphone screen images in Suzuki-authored documents were prepared using iOS 13.5, so they may differ visually when using a different OS or system version.
App operation was confirmed under specific conditions. Depending on the OS and system version, some apps may not operate properly, or functions may be limited to ensure safe operation.
Third-party apps are not under Suzuki control, and Suzuki is not responsible for their content or privacy policies.
Suzuki cannot guarantee proper operation of third-party apps.
Some third-party offerings are paid apps. Please confirm before installing new apps. Please refer to the respective terms of use when installing and using third-party apps. Some third-party apps may not be installable or may appear differently, depending on the country or region, or on the OS or system version.
Apple and the Apple logo are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.
IOS is a trademark or registered trademark of Cisco in the U.S. and other countries and is used under license.
Google Play and the Google Play logo are trademarks of Google LLC. Android is a trademark of Google LLC.
The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc., and any use of such marks by BOSCH is under license. Other trademarks and trade names are those of their respective owners.
PIAGGIO GROUP WINS FIRST-INSTANCE EUROPEAN PATENT INFRINGEMENT SUITS AGAINST PEUGEOT MOTOCYCLES IN PARIS AND MILAN
AFTER THE VESPA, THE UNIQUE NATURE OF THE PIAGGIO MP3 SCOOTER IS ALSO RECOGNISED
The Piaggio Group continues its fight to protect its products against counterfeits
Paris – Milan – The Piaggio Group (PIA.MI) said that, with rulings issued within a few days of each other, both the Tribunal Judiciaire of Paris and the Court of Milan had found Peugeot Motocycles (now owned by an Indian Group) guilty of infringing a European patent on the technology of the Piaggio MP3 three-wheel scooter with the Peugeot Metropolis model.
The patent in question owned by the Piaggio Group to which the rulings in its favour refer (still subject to appeal) relates to the control system that enables a three-wheel vehicle to tilt sideways like a conventional motorcycle.
For the infringement, Peugeot Motocycles has been sentenced in France to pay damages calculated at 1,500,000 euro, in addition to further penalties for infringement and legal expenses.
The ruling of the Paris court also prohibits Peugeot Motocycles on French territory from producing, promoting, marketing, importing, exporting, using and/or possessing any three-wheel scooter that uses the control system patented by the Piaggio Group (including the Peugeot Metropolis), on penalty of payment of a fine for every counterfeit vehicle.
The Court of Milan has prohibited Peugeot Motocycles on Italian territory from importing, exporting, marketing and advertising (offline and online) the Peugeot Metropolis, with a fine of € 6,000 established for every vehicle sold after a term of 30 days from the announcement of the sentence. Peugeot Motocycles must also withdraw all counterfeit vehicles from sale in Italy within 90 days, on penalty of payment of an additional fine of € 10,000 for every day of delay in executing the order.
The RR undoubtedly represents the icing on the cake of the F3 range, the pinnacle of performance, fitting and technological evolution. Whether it is a matter of mechanics,
chassis or aerodynamics every single detail of the MV Agusta F3 RR has been conceived to offer class-leading performance. That’s why this bike plays the role of a unique interpreter of the supersport segment.
MECHANICAL AND ELECTRONIC REVOLUTION
All the three-cylinder engines of the 2021 MV range have received many technical updates. Those on the F3 RR, in particular, have been concentrated on achieving the best performance ever.
The lap time, that’s its focus, has been achieved also counting on the valuable experience MV engineers honed on Moto2 World Championship, a specific challenging scenario characterized by an obsessive attention to aerodynamic details and chassis excellence. All this, of course, without forgetting the pleasure of road riding, which has been among the core values of the entire three-cylinder range for 2021. The sporty thrill takes however a great prominence. To be precise, its performance has been further improved thanks to the meticulous aerodynamic study as well as to the addition of functional technical elements, which help to set the bar in terms of maximum efficiency.
A 2022-model MV Agusta F3 RR. Photo courtesy MV Agusta.
CHASSIS: EXCELLENCE GETS EVEN BETTER
The world-renowned chassis, recognized since its début as the best in the segment, consistently remains a reference point. But that’s not enough.
The F3 RR goes even further. The redesign of the frame plates, with particular focus on the swingarm area, has led to an increase in torsional and longitudinal rigidity, a solution that have not only contributed of enhancing riding precision, but also increased the rider’s feeling. The suspension setting is specifically conceived for this new RR and has been adapted to the new rigidity to maximize the effectiveness for both excellent on-track performance and outstanding on-road ridability. The new rear rim features a specific design and has been obtained through an innovative casting process with a weight saving of 7% and, consequently, a reduction in inertia of 10%. The result? Lower unsprung weight, for a more rewarding riding experience.
ENGINE: EVEN MORE ADVANCED
The “Trepistoni” engine has undergone a constant development activity which has led to a significant improvement by reducing internal friction and increasing the smoothness of riding without, however, sacrificing its intense character.
Despite full compliance with Euro 5 regulations, the overall refreshment led to confirm its 147hp engine among the most powerful not only within its category but also in the 800s. All this is the result of a careful fine-tuning work on the timing system by adopting new valve guides and DLC treatment for the tappets. The titanium valves allow to reach very high rotation speeds, while the newly designed main bearings reduce inertia and friction and further enhance reliability. The exhaust system has been entirely revamped, from the manifold to the silencer, to satisfy the power curves. Torque and power are now more generous at all revs, without however sacrificing the proverbial MV Agusta’s three-cylinder acceleration as well as its unmistakable tune. The engine is still very powerful yet even more affordable. The new injectors are now capable of managing an increased injection pressure of 0.5 bar. ECU firmware, management logics and the engine control algorithms were also renewed, all this helping the rider to take advantage of an even more precise and refined throttle management. Additionally, to improve cooling, a new dual-flow oil radiator has been adopted with a consequently enhanced efficiency of 5%.
A 2022-model MV Agusta F3 RR. Photo courtesy MV Agusta.
SHIFT: MORE PRECISE AND FASTER
Even the clutch has undergone some changes. It in fact features a reinforced hub, which has been improved in terms of manageability and reduced noise. The Quick-Shift EAS 3.0 with bi-directional function is in its third generation and enhances the quality of shifting, now smoother and more precise courtesy of new sensor.
ELECTRONICS: MORE COMPLETE THAN EVER
From the dashboard to the ABS as well as the controls and the firmware of the control unit: electronics of the F3 entire family marks a clear breakthrough compared to the past. The début of a brand-new IMU inertial platform – designed and developed in Italy by the Milan-based e-Novia exclusively for MV Agusta – allows for extremely precise management of all controls according to the lean angle by reading the position of the motorcycle in space. The new ABS by Continental features cornering function while the traction control can operate more precisely, also taking into account the inclination of the bike. Also thanks to the IMU, the renewed FLC front lift control takes the wheelie under control instead of entirely preventing it. Everything is managed by a 5.5” TFT dashboard, able to communicate with the MVRide App. This latter (available for IOS and Android) not only allows to record and share journeys through the main social platforms, but also offers the opportunity to personalize the bike in every aspect (engine settings included), directly from the smartphone. Thanks to the mirroring function it is thus possible to navigate turn by turn, a further function to the recording and sharing of the route. Lastly, the handlebar controls features a new right-hand block with launch control button and a left-hand block with a practical joystick for browsing through several dashboard menus.
SUPERSTRUCTURE
The F3 RR has undergone specific in-depth study and tests in the wind tunnel which led to the integration of some aerodynamic elements into the fairings. These interventions serve a dual purpose: enhancing performance and also increasing engine efficiency.
The appendages, positioned on the side of the fairing and made of forged carbon, for example, are capable of producing a load of 8 kg on the front end at 240 km/h. These components are part of an aerodynamic package, which also includes higher windshield, new carbon fairing sides and new mudguard which, among other things, also improves the airflow to the radiator. The latter elements have been designed to further improve CX coefficient, thus fully compensating for the greater resistance to advancement caused by the winglets. In brief, the F3 RR did not lose in maximum speed but gained in front end load, also reviving impressive feeling and cornering performance. This is another example of how on the F3 RR every technical detail has been designed exclusively to increase performance. The new footpegs, characterized by a further dose of grip, and the new anti-slip coating for the saddle are still part of the revolution.
Part of the racing kit available to purchase with an MV Agusta F3 RR. Photo courtesy MV Agusta.
THE RACING KIT
MV Agusta F3 RR is an extremely complete and performing bike. Since everything can be improved, the customer is therefore offered the opportunity to embellish and transform the stock MV Agusta F3 RR into a unique bike with a special kit that includes additional CNC machined components (such as fuel cap, brake and clutch levers) along with a seat cover that turns the bike into a single-seater. The real gem of the kit, however, is the Akrapovič titanium exhaust – road approved -, supplied with a dedicated control unit, which boosts the power up to 155hp and reduces the weight from 173 to 165 kg (dry).
MV AGUSTA F3 RR MY22 MAIN NEW FEATURES
• DEDICATED AERODYNAMICS
• LOW-FRICTION, EURO 5 COMPLIANT ENGINE
• HIGH PRESSURE INJECTORS
• BI-DIRECTIONAL RADIATOR
• NEWLY DESIGNED EXHAUST SYSTEM – AKRAPOVIC OPTIONAL
Celebrating the partnership between two British icons, Triumph is pleased to announce a stunning new limited edition inspired by the incredible Tiger 900 Rally Pro, which features in amazing stunt sequences in the forthcoming 25th James Bond film, No Time To Die.
Just like the Bond films, Triumph Motorcycles brings a well-established and instantly recognizable British authenticity, fashioned and proven over time.
With a long and illustrious history in designing, developing, and manufacturing premium motorcycles with exceptional levels of performance, capability and handling, Triumph provided the James Bond stunt team with the perfect fit for the key action sequences in Bond’s latest outing, through the incredibly capable Tiger 900’s and Scrambler 1200’s.
Lee Morrison, No Time To Die stunt coordinator: “The Tiger 900 is the most confidence-inspiring bike, it allows you to really push the ride as far as you want, you can take as many liberties as you want; stand up sideways drifting in third gear, slow wheelie it, slide it Supermoto-style. I honestly think it’s one of the best bikes I’ve ever ridden, it’s fantastic.”
Limited Edition
Strictly limited to just 250 motorcycles globally, the new Tiger 900 Bond Edition celebrates the iconic British partnership between James Bond and Triumph.
Each of these stunning motorcycles are individually numbered and come with a signed certificate of authenticity.
Desirable, Distinctive and Sophisticated
The Tiger 900 Bond Edition features a unique and eye-catching Matt Sapphire Black paint scheme and 007TM graphics, enhancing the bike’s stand-out look and premium style and making this a truly unique and desirable motorcycle.
Each motorcycle also comes with a premium, billet machined handlebar clamp, with the bike’s unique limited edition number.
Finally with the unique styling details, the Tiger 900 Bond Edition includes premium ‘blacked out’ detailing throughout. The frame, headlight finishers, side panels, sump guard, pillion footrest hangers, auxiliary lamp shrouds and engine guards all have a premium, black finish.
Premium detailing and equipment
Enhancing the Bond Edition theme, the new limited edition Tiger 900 features an exciting bespoke 007TM start up screen animation and heated rider and pillion seat, crafted with unique Bond Edition branding.
Along with all of the Tiger 900 Rally Pro’s category-dominating specification the new limited edition also comes with an additional pair of high performance Michelin Anakee Wild handbook approved off-road tires (in addition to the factory fitted Bridgestone Battlax tires), and a premium Arrow Silencer, which features a lightweight brushed stainless steel body, with a carbon end cap and strap.
Available in US and Canadian dealerships in May/June 2022
Travis Wyman scores podium finish in Stock 1000 race at MotoAmerica season finale
Motul-sponsored BMW rider secures second place in Stock 1000, Superbike Cup standings at Barber Motorsports Park
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — It was a positive conclusion to the 2021 MotoAmerica season for Travis Wyman, as the Motul-sponsored rider scored a podium finish in the final Stock 1000 race of the year and ended the season runner-up in the Stock 1000 and Superbike Cup points standings.
The BMW rider put in an excellent performance in two days of racing in challenging wet conditions Sept. 17-19 at Barber Motorsports Park and was twice in the hunt for a top-five Superbike finish or better. Though he came up just short of his goal of winning two MotoAmerica No. 1 plates, Wyman – like he has all season – got the most he could out of his BMW S 1000 RR and put his title sponsor Motul back on the MotoAmerica podium.
Wyman and the other top 10 riders in the Superbike Cup standings practiced and qualified with the Superbike Class at Barber. In Friday practice, Wyman put in the ninth-fastest time of the session and was second among the Superbike Cup riders. Later Friday, Wyman finished Qualifying 1 in 11th and was third among the Cup competitors. Qualifying wrapped up Saturday morning in wet conditions with Wyman having claimed third on the Stock 1000 grid – his fourth front row starting spot of the season – and 12th for the Saturday Superbike race.
Saturday also featured the weekend’s lone Stock 1000 race and one Superbike race. In the Stock 1000 contest, Wyman struggled in the early laps of the race on the 2.38-mile Barber circuit. After falling as far down the running order as sixth at the end of Lap 1, Wyman had advanced to fourth place by the end of Lap 4. With two laps to go, Wyman made his move into third place, which he held on to by a margin of more than five seconds. Rain continued to pour down on Barber Motorsports Park later Saturday when Superbike Race 1 got underway. Wyman got an excellent start and had moved up the running order five positions by the end of Lap 1. After advancing one position per lap on Laps 2-4, Wyman was running in third at the end of Lap 6 but suffered a crash at the exit of the Museum Corner on Lap 7 and had to retire from the race.
In Sunday’s Superbike Race 2, Wyman had to start the race 20th — third to last — because of his crash on Saturday. Wyman got off the line well again and moved up from 20th to 17th on the first lap. After passing two more riders in the next two laps, Wyman had moved up to 12th place when the race was stopped on Lap 12 of 17 due to wildlife being loose on the racetrack. In Superbike Race 3, Wyman had a banner first lap as he moved up from 13th on the starting grid to eighth by the end of the lap. After running as high as seventh on Laps 2-4, Wyman began experiencing a fogging problem with his helmet’s face shield. The problem forced him to back off his pace, and Wyman had to settle for an 11th-place finish.
With the 2021 MotoAmerica season having come to an end, the Travis Wyman Racing BMW team thanks its many sponsors, especially Motul, and its many enthusiastic fans for another great season of MotoAmerica competition.
Travis Wyman / No. 10
“Friday qualifying went well, and it felt great to have a new engine in our BMW S 1000 RR. We were less than a tenth of a second off the Stock 1000 pole, and we knew on Saturday that the rest of the weekend was going to be wet. We used Qualifying 2 on Saturday morning to work on our wet setup, which felt great on Saturday and Sunday. It was drying conditions in the Stock 1000 race, and I was pretty tentative off the start. I had a great battle with another rider for the last podium spot. Getting third was great for the team and allowed me to secure second place in the Stock 1000 championship. It rained really hard for the Saturday Superbike race, and I was in the running for my first Superbike podium before crashing out. I got more comfortable as the Sunday morning Superbike race went on and was able to work my way from 20th to 12th. I felt great in the last Superbike race, but my shield fogged up so bad that I couldn’t see and had to battle that issue the rest of the race. I was lifting my shield on the back straight trying to wipe it dry and had to actually rip the face shield off to finish the last lap of that race, which was pretty frustrating.”
More, from a press release issued by Royal Enfield North America:
BUILD. TRAIN. RACE. ROAD RACING WRAPS UP AT BARBER MOTOAMERICA
CJ Lukacs completes the hat trick at rain-soaked final at Alabama’s Barber Motorsports Park
(From left) Kayla Theisler, CJ Lukacs, and Trisha Dahl celebrate on the podium at Barber Motorsports Park, the final round of Royal Enfield’s BUILD. TRAIN. RACE. Road Race series. Photo courtesy Royal Enfield North America.
Milwaukee, WI – The rain-soaked and program-delayed round of MotoAmerica at Barber Motorsports Park in Birmingham, Alabama, might not have been the season final anyone was hoping for, including the women of Royal Enfield’s Build. Train. Race. (BTR), but for a program with the goal of cultivating the life experience that comes through racing motorcycles, perhaps it was a fitting way to close the series after all.
CJ Lukacs (77) at speed. Photo courtesy Royal Enfield North America.
“It was a bit of a wild weekend for the Royal Enfield Build. Train. Race. Road Racers,” said Breeann Poland, Marketing and Communications Lead – Royal Enfield Americas. “We had some pretty serious weather, some difficult racing conditions, and several spills in the wet. But this is racing, and it’s not for the weak. The challenges are all part of the experience that shapes us. It’s finding your limits, getting up after you fall, dealing with the unexpected and working to solve problems while the clock is ticking. These women faced all of these challenges at Barber this weekend and really pushed through. To say that I’m proud of them would be a gross understatement.”
Down to a four-rider field after rain delays left Sunday’s program in doubt (and several team members having to head to the airport), the Royal Enfield BTR race finally got underway. Photo courtesy Royal Enfield North America.
After the original start time was postponed during to Sunday’s downpour, many Royal Enfield team members were sent scrambling to rebook flights in the attempt to stay at the ready for a race that may or may not even take place. Five of the seven-rider field were able and/or willing to stick it out in the hopes of getting their track time, and fortunately the MotoAmerica crew found a way to slot in time for the third of three BTR Road Racing exhibition races in the revised schedule.
Kayla Theisler was thrilled to get her first podium finish of the season at her favorite track. It might have been a win if she hadn’t run out of time. Photo courtesy Royal Enfield North America.
CJ Lukacs, who all but dominated the first two rounds, found herself on a second-row start behind Kayla Theisler, Trisha Dahl and Alyssa Bridges (fifth rider Michaela Trumbull experienced mechanical issues on the warmup lap and did not make the start). Dahl grabbed the holeshot and lead the early charge, but was soon overtaken by Lukacs and Theisler. The trio remained tight in the opening laps in what was the closest racing all season.
“We battled back and forth almost every corner,” said Lukacs. “It was so exciting! Having that push between all of us, bar to bar, there’s nothing else like it.”
Lukacs maneuvered her way out front, only a bike-length or two in front of the number 52 of Theisler. Given more time, Theisler might have overtaken the point, but a red flag handed the top spot to Lukacs by a fraction of a second, with Dahl and Bridges not far off. In the end, it cemented the former pro motocrosser’s top spot in the BTR Road Racing ranks, making for a clean sweep of the three-round series.
“We all wanted to finish upright,” Lukacs said, “and the fact that we did so, even through battling each other in crazy track conditions, makes me so proud. I am humbled by everyone’s talent and growth. As crazy as this last round was, the experience of racing in the rain for the first time couldn’t have been better.”
The finish marked Theisler’s first podium of the championship, while Trisha Dahl’s third-place finish completes her podium sweep of the series, having finished in the top-three at every BTR MotoAmerica event this season.
Trisha Dahl (144) showed good consistency, landing her third podium finish of the three-round exhibition series. Photo courtesy Royal Enfield North America.
“What a weekend!” Trisha Dahl exclaimed. “My nerves were through the roof and I had no idea how hard I could push it. As my mentor Melissa Paris would say, ‘to finish first, you must first finish.’ I kept the inputs light but also stayed aggressive on the throttle when I knew the bike was upright. For the very little experience we have on rain tires, I am very impressed with myself and all my teammates. We went headfirst into this weekend and adapted to every challenge that was presented. I’m so proud to be a part of this team.”
Kayla Theisler echoed the sentiment, “Royal Enfield not only provided the resources for me to grow as a rider and racer, they also allowed me to create lasting relationships with so many talented, strong, inspiring women. I’m grateful and humbled to be a part of this trailblazing program for women in motorcycling.”
“That wasn’t an easy weekend, and we’d like to thank MotoAmerica for shuffling the program and giving our racers the chance to finish out their season,” Breeann Poland added. “And, of course, to all our sponsors who really came through, once again! After several spills on Saturday morning in the rain, these ladies worked so hard to repair their Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 race bikes in order to be ready for Sunday. We’re beyond thrilled to see a strong finish to our first Build. Train. Race. season with MotoAmerica and we’re already looking forward going bigger next year.”
The Royal Enfield BTR Road Racing program has concluded for 2021, and is looking forward to an expanded platform with MotoAmerica next season. Look for an announcement on the 2022 Royal Enfield BUILD. TRAIN. RACE. USA Road Racing program, including details on the application period, in the coming weeks.
The BUILD. TRAIN. RACE. Flat Track program will race their fourth and final round at the Charlotte Half-Mile in Charlotte, North Carolina on October 8. Find more information on the Royal Enfield BTR programs at https://buildtrainrace.com/.
About Royal Enfield
The oldest motorcycle company in continuous production in the world, Royal Enfield made its first motorcycle in 1901. A division of Eicher Motors Limited, Royal Enfield has created the midsize motorcycle segment in India with its unique and distinctive modern classic motorcycles. With its manufacturing base in Chennai, India, Royal Enfield has been able to grow its production rapidly against a surge in demand for its motorcycles. Royal Enfield is a leading player in the global middleweight motorcycle market.
Royal Enfield North America (RENA) is headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and is developing a growing network of more than 140 dealers in North America, including the contiguous U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico. RENA currently offers the all-new Meteor 350, Himalayan and the 650 Twins (INT 650 and Continental GT 650) motorcycles, along with a range of Genuine Motorcycle Accessories and apparel.
For more information on Royal Enfield North America, visit www.RoyalEnfield.com/us/en/, www.Instagram.com/RoyalEnfield_NA, www.Facebook.com/RoyalEnfieldNorthAmerica.
More, from a press release issued by N2 Racing:
Blake Davis Finishes Top 5 at Barber Motorsports Park!
Blake Davis (22) in action in the rain at Barber Motorsports Park. Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy N2 Racing.
Birmingham, AL (September 2021) – N2 Racing’s Blake Davis finished fifth on his Yamaha YZF-R3 in the last race of the MotoAmerica Junior Cup season after dealing with mixed conditions and torrential rain. Blake also finished in seventh place in Junior Cup Race 1 and these two combined finishes secured sixth place in the championship.
Friday practice and qualifying were dry and Blake was competitive in every session. In QP1, Blake was able to turn a lap time of 1:37.110 which would be his fastest lap of the weekend, because then, the rain came down. The rain never stopped either, just changing in degrees of intensity from a light drizzle to torrential down poor.
Blakes time from Friday put him seventh, in the inside of row three for the start. The race was started under heavy rain and Blake got a great start. Visibility and traction were changing lap to lap and several competitors struggled with crashes. Blake battled with Max Van for most of the race, bringing the number 22 home in seventh place.
Sunday started off fantastic with Blake finishing in the first position in the morning warmup. The team had worked hard to develop a better wet set up after Saturday’s race and it paid off. Race 2 was held in a soaking rain. Blake struggled at the start, fading back to eighth place in the first few laps. As the chaos of the start calmed down, Blake was able to put his head down and start working his way through the field. Blake eventually worked his way up to fifth place at the finish and secured sixth place in the season championship standings.
Kris Smith (Team Owner) – “Our team is pretty proud of Blake Davis for showing us all what a true pro he is in the most challenging conditions. It feels good to finish the season on a positive and Blake took care of that for our team with his 5th in race two. I’m especially pleased that he was able to score points in 16 out of 18 races this year and take 6th in the championship. Blake will be the first to tell you he has more to offer and I’m a believer. I’m pretty excited about our plans for N2 Racing and the 2022 season which we hope to be announcing in the near future.”
Shiloh Salopek (Crew Chief) – “As challenging as this season has been for the whole team it was great to end the season on a good note. Blake has impressed me more and more every round with his dedication and positive attitude no matter what has been thrown our way. I am very happy to have the opportunity to continue on working with him in 2022 in what is shaping up to be the best year yet for N2.”
Blake Davis – “It was a crazy way to finish what has been an amazing and challenging season. This weekend was a lot like the entire season. We had lots of ups and downs, but we overcame all of our challenges as a team. I would like to thank all of the sponsors for their support. I can’t thank Kris Smith, Shiloh, Emerson, and my family enough for all the hard work this year. Thank you for believing in me and I can’t wait for what’s coming next season.”
About N2 Track Days:
N2 provides a structured riding environment for sport-bike riders of all levels promoting motorcycle safety through instruction on a closed course racetrack. Our instructors and coaching staff are comprised of club-racers, pro racers, and experienced track day riders who are articulate and passionate about all aspects of this sport. N2 strives to provide an enjoyable riding experience in an environment where members can hone their skills and inspire confidence in their riding ability. Riding with N2 means you and your sportbike gain access to a structured environment without the hazards, limitations, distractions, and obstacles that you’ll find on the street.
N2 Racing is proudly sponsored by: N2 Track Days, BobbleHeadMoto, SBS Brakes, Renthal, Motorex, Shoei Helmets, Ohlins USA, Trading Paint, Westby Racing, and Moto Liberty
More, from a press release issued by Altus Motorsports:
MotoAmerica: Jake Lewis Clinches the 2021 MotoAmerica Superbike Cup Championship. Results from Round 9 Barber Motorsports Park for the Altus Motorsports Tucker Environmental Service Solutions Team
(Birmingham, AL) – The unrelenting rain at Barber Motorsports Park in Birmingham, Alabama could not dampen the spirits of the Altus Motorsports team. For the second year in a row, the Altus team won the MotoAmerica Stock 1000 & Superbike Cup Championship.
Jake Lewis (85). Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy Altus Motorsports.
Honos Superbike & Stock 1000:
After clinching the Stock 1000 championship last round, Jake Lewis came into the final round of the MotoAmerica 2021 season looking to do the same with the Superbike Cup. And he did. Lewis started the first of the weekend’s three Superbike races from 10th on the grid and in a wet and crash-laden race, he finished in 5th. He was the second-fastest Stock 1000 bike, but it was good enough to clinch the Superbike Cup championship. In the second Superbike race, he again finished 5th and took 9th in the third and final race of the season.
Jake also won the last Stock 1000 race of the year. In the 2021 Stock 1000 championship season, Lewis only finished off the podium three times. All totaled, he claimed 6 wins, two second-place finishes, a third, two fourths, and one DNF.
“I cannot thank George and Janette Nassaney and the Altus Motorsports team enough for giving me the opportunity to ride this year. I’ve said it before, last year I was out of the paddock and thought my racing career might be over. George is an amazing person. He always wants to win, but there was never any pressure. Even if I was running 3rd or 4th, he was just supportive. I also have to thank Eric Gray, my crew chief. He and my mechanics, Tony and David did an incredible job every round. I’m incredibly grateful to my personal sponsors: Roclun International, Service Tools and Plastics, Pikanty Group, Arai Helmets, and Cortech Leathers,” said Jake Lewis.
Supersport 600:
It was a wet and wild weekend for the Supersport riders. Both the Saturday and Sunday races were plagued by rain and each one ended up more a game of survival than a competition. In fact, almost half the field did not finish on Saturday.
Jaret Nassaney (59). Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy Altus Motorsports.
Jaret Nassaney started Race 1 from 11th and managed to persevere to finish in 13th. In Race 2, he started 10th and, after battling for 8th, finished in the same position at 10th. Nassaney finished the season 10th overall in the Supersport class.
“On the last lap of Race 1, I lost the rear and crashed, but I picked the bike up and finished. We made some changes before Race 2. I felt better, but with a few laps to go it started to dump rain and I ended up giving up two spots to finish 10th. Overall I’m just glad to survive,” said Jaret Nassaney. “I’m pretty happy with the season. We scored points every race but one and never got a DNF. I finished the season in 10th and only a few points out of 8th. I am ready to come back next year and continue progressing.”
Kevin Olmedo (16). Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy Altus Motorsports.
Kevin Olmedo was one of the victims of the Saturday weather. He crashed before the race was red-flagged and restarted. In Race 2, he started from 4th and focused on finishing. He crossed the line in 12th. In spite of missing the first two rounds (four races), Olmedo managed to finish the season 7th overall in the class.
Junior Cup:
Hayden Bicknese came into Barber Motorsports Park with high hopes. It was the only track on the schedule that he was very familiar with and he expected to post some good results. Unfortunately, Mother Nature decided to throw a change-up and fill the weekend with torrential downpours.
Hayden Bicknese (69). Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy Altus Motorsports.
It was a rough weekend for Hayden in the rain. He started the Saturday race from 11th. While almost ⅓ of the entrants ended up crashing out, Hayden rode smart and took the checkered flag in 12th.
With the Sunday Race Start approaching, the weather turned worse. Hard consistent rain had created large areas of standing water. With little to gain and the potential for crashing and possible injury high, the team wisely decided to park the bike for Race 2. Bicknese ended his inaugural season in an impressive 12th overall.
“2021 is a wrap! For our team to win back-to-back Stock 1000 and Superbike Cup it feels amazing. This season had its challenges, but in the end, Jake Lewis is the Champion and we could not be more proud! None of this is possible without Crew Chief Eric Gray. He works many long hours to make sure the entire team is ready every weekend. His desire to push the team to be the best makes all of us champions! Thank you, Tony Pogue and David Gray for coming on midseason and making sure Jake’s bike was ready for battle. Jake Lewis, you are an amazing young man! Your competitive nature, professionalism, and being a genuinely good person brings out the best in our team.”
“Eric has always said it’s easy to make it to the 3rd or 4th Rounds, but much more difficult to complete an entire season. Thank you, Mike Castro, Sean Gager, and Mauro Deviasso for all your hard work this season. You guys came together and made our team a success.”
“Jaret, Kevin, and Hayden all had great seasons. They came in focused and ready to compete at the highest level. As a team owner, I could not ask for more,” said George Nassaney.
Altus Motorsports is already working on the team for next year. They are looking at what the mix of bikes will be between 1000s, 600s, and Junior Cup bikes. Any riders looking for a bike or even transportation for the 2022 season, reach out to George Nassaney at [email protected]
The Altus Motorsports team is supported by our great family of sponsors: Altus Motorsports, Environmental Service Solutions, Suzuki Motor Corporation, Creative Sports Concepts, Tucker Powersports, Schaefer Engineering, Hot Bodies Racing, M4 Exhausts, Vortex EK, Motion Pro, Barnett, VP Lubricants, SBS Brakes, Galfer USA, Moto-D Racing, Bonamici, Ohlins, K-Techs, RS Taichi, Arai, Law Tigers Oklahoma, Lawton Motorsports, and Altus Factory Racing.
Ben Young (86) leads Alex Dumas (23), Jordan Szoke (behind Dumas), and Trevor Daley (9). Photo courtesy Ben Young Racing.
YOUNG WRAPS UP 2021 CSBK SEASON IN SECOND
The 2021 Canadian Superbike Championship wrapped up this weekend at Calabogie Motorsports Park with Ben Young claiming 2nd place overall.
Coming into the final two races at Calabogie, expectations were high, and Young knew it wouldn’t be an easy battle – Dumas had won the opening two races at the same venue. Within the second practice, Young had improved his times from the first round, showing his hunger for the weekend.
A shortened race weekend meant Young was on track Friday and Saturday only, leaving very little time to work on the set up of the Van Dolder’s Home Team BMW S1000RR. Despite this, Young took 2nd place on the grid, only 0.171 seconds off pole position. This closeness would give an idea of just how competitive the racing would be, and it didn’t disappoint.
Young charged hard off of the line of race one. He maintained a close second position for the entirety of the race. Due to the high speed at such a technical track, Young couldn’t make any attempts to take first stick, and he crossed the line with a solid 2nd place and a blistering fastest lap of 2:00:836, a time which hasn’t been seen in years at Calabogie.
In race two, Young took the hole-shot heading in to the first corner, but unfortunately, the race was red-flagged on the second lap. The restarted race was shortened to an 8-lap dash in which Young had less success getting off the line. Despite heading into turn 1 in 4th place, Young made it into second position in short order though a second behind Dumas in first. Young again took the fastest lap in his chase of first, but ultimately couldn’t take the lead finishing 2nd again.
“It wasn’t quite the season finish we hoped for, but we knew it wouldn’t be easy. Considering that we took a year out in 2020 due to COVID, having a new bike and dealing with some gremlins, we are delighted with 2nd place in the championship. The team and I worked really hard right to the end, and it just makes us hungrier for next year. ”
Young’s partners for his 2021 CSBK Championship season include; BMW Motorrad Canada, Van Dolder’s Home Team, Scot-Build Developments Inc, Parts Canada, HJC Helmets, Alpinestars, Motul, Hindle Exhaust, Barrie Trim and Mouldings, Alpha Racing and Vass Performance Cycle.
To keep up-to-date on Ben Young throughout the year visit; www.BenYoungRacing.com, www.facebook.com/BenYoungRacing and on Twitter and Instagram: @benyoung_86
Hector Barbera (80) leads Josh Herrin (2), Cam Petersen, and Kyle Wyman (33) in Superbike Race Two at Road America. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
Featured In the September 2021 issue of Roadracing World:
Hector Barbera shot to the top of motorcycle road racing and spent 17 seasons in the Grand Prix World Championships. But now the 34-year-old from Spain is looking to take a page out of countryman Toni Elias’ book and write a new chapter for himself in MotoAmerica Superbike…
—Hanging With: Hector Barbera, by David Swarts.
After years of success in trials, racing officials urged Hector Barbera’s family to enter him in road races, and he was instantly successful. All these years later, and Barbera’s desire to win is just as strong, and he’s brought that will to win to MotoAmerica. Read the back story of one of racing’s more compelling characters – in the latest Roadracing World!
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The lap time Francesco Bagnaia (63) turned on Day One ended up being fastest overall during the two day MotoGP test at Misano. Photo courtesy Ducati.
FIM MotoGP World Championship
Misano World Circuit – Marco Simoncelli
Rimini, San Marino
September 21-22, 2021
Unofficial Combined Lap Times From Both Days (all on Michelin tires):
Francesco Bagnaia, Italy (Ducati), 1:31.524
Aleix Espargaro, Spain (Aprilia), 1:31.584
Pol Espargaro, Spain (Honda), 1:31.631
Joan Mir, Spain (Suzuki), 1:31.707
Takaaki Nakagami, Japan (Honda), 1:31.735
Jack Miller, Australia (Ducati), 1:31.798
Fabio Quartararo, France (Yamaha), 1:31.959
Luca Marini, Italy (Ducati), 1:31.998
Maverick Vinales, Spain (Aprilia), 1:32.002
Jorge Martin, Spain (Ducati), 1:32.135
Miguel Oliveira, Portugal (KTM), 1:32.136
Marc Marquez, Spain (Honda), 1:32.151
Brad Binder, South Africa (KTM), 1:32.169
Valentino Rossi, Italy (Yamaha), 1:32.170
Alex Marquez, Spain (Honda), 1:32.259
Michele Pirro, Italy (Ducati), 1:32.331*
Johann Zarco, France (Ducati), 1:32.348
Alex Rins, Spain (Suzuki), 1:32.352
Franco Morbidelli, Italy (Yamaha), 1:32.635
Andrea Dovizioso, Italy (Yamaha), 1:32.665
Iker Lecuona, Spain (KTM), 1:32.751
Enea Bastianini, Italy (Ducati), 1:32.837
Dani Pedrosa, Spain (KTM), 1:32.959*
Danilo Petrucci, Italy (KTM), 1:33.526
Raul Fernandez, Spain (KTM), 1:33.988*
Lorenzo Savadori, Italy (Aprilia), 1:34.043*
Sylvain Guintoli, France (Suzuki), 1:34.141*
Stefan Bradl, Germany (Honda), 1:34.280*
Remy Gardner, Australia (KTM), 1:34.641*
*=test rider
More, from a press release issued by Dorna:
Aprilia top Day 2, Honda continue stealing the headlines at Misano
Aleix Espargaro just shadows Pecco’s Day 1 best on the timesheets, and there’s plenty more to talk about as Day 2 of testing concludes
Wednesday, 22 September 2021
Aprilia’s Aleix Espargaro (41) was quickest on Day Two. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Much to everyone’s delight, the weather played ball on Day 2 of the Official Misano MotoGP™ Test as every factory was able to get some valuable track time under their belts, with more new parts introduced on Wednesday. Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) finishes top of the combined timesheets thanks to his 1:31.524 on Day 1, but it’s Aleix Espargaro and Aprilia Racing Team Gresini who reigned the timesheets on Day 2, 0.080 ahead of Bagnaia’s Wednesday best as the Italian remained consistently quick.
The two-day schedule mainly made headlines for the new parts and upgrades on show, however, and no one had more to test than Honda. Test rider Stefan Bradl rolled out of the garage on a damp Tuesday morning with a radically new RC213V, with Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda Team) heading out on it in the afternoon when conditions cleared. The most noticeable differences from the outside were the air intake shape, the tail unit and the exhaust positioning.
Pol Espargaro (44). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Then, on Wednesday morning, Pol Espargaro (Repsol Honda Team) ventured out on the bike Marc Marquez and Bradl had been seen using, while the number 93 also lapped on another new Honda – slightly different once again, with a different air intake. Marc Marquez was also out on the new bike with the current 2021 aero package that Honda have been using since the German GP, with Pol Espargaro testing it with the new aero. He did his best lap in the FP4 Wednesday session on a new bike too, a 1:32.105. He ended Day 2 sixth with a better lap from the morning, with teammate MM93 in 10th.
LCR Honda boss Lucio Cecchinello revealed that Alex Marquez (LCR Honda Castrol) has been working on his bike’s weight distribution, and they’ve found a setting that he feels more comfortable with. The two-time World Champion was also back-to-back testing the regular, carbon bonded chassis and the chassis that Marc Marquez and Espargaro have been using on and off since Assen. Takaaki Nakagami (LCR Honda Idemitsu) – again according to Cecchinello – was working with the aero package that was first seen at the Sachsenring, and both of his bikes were fitted with the carbon-bonded HRC chassis. The Japanese rider impressed to end Wednesday fourth on a 1:31.735.
Jack Miller (43). Photo courtesy Dorna.
On Day 1 at Ducati, the Bologna marque unveiled two new aero packages. The first very similar to the one they’re using in 2021, but the second splits the second winglet into two different elements, meaning the aero package has four elements in total when including the downwash duct at the bottom of the fairing.
Bagnaia and Jack Miller (Ducati Lenovo Team) were back-to-back testing the different aero packages across the two days at Misano, with a Day 1 crash not affecting Pecco’s schedule. The Italian called it a day just before lunch on Wednesday, in second with a 0.080 deficit to Aleix Espargaro. Miller ended Day 2 in fifth.
Jorge Martin (Pramac Racing) tested Ducati’s new aero as well as the factory duo, whereas teammate Johann Zarco went home after Day 1 to have arm pump surgery – successfully completed – and the Frenchman was replaced by test rider Michele Pirro.
It wasn’t the ideal test for San Marino podium finisher Enea Bastianini (Avintia Esponsorama). The Italian suffered a crash on both Day 1 and Day 2, the second seeing him sit out the rest of Wednesday, but rider ok. Bastianini’s teammate Luca Marini (Sky VR46 Avintia) had a very successful test, however, and the Italian was able to lap quicker than he went all weekend at the San Marino GP.
Alex Rins (42) with a new chassis. Photo courtesy Dorna.
At Suzuki, reigning World Champion Joan Mir and Team Suzuki Ecstar teammate Alex Rins were both impressed by the new chassis Suzuki brought to the Misano Test on Day 2. So much so, it may be seen on their GSX-RRs in 2021. The new chassis has a carbon bond at the top, unlike the current one.
In addition, Suzuki were testing the 2022 engine that we first saw at the pre-season Qatar Tests. Test rider Sylvain Guintoli joined Mir and Rins on Wednesday fresh from his Bol D’Or win, as we witnessed Suzuki also unveil a new side fairing.
Joan Mir (36) with a new side fairing. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Mir was able to improve something on the braking side of things that he’s been missing all season on Day 2, and the number 36 was third on Wednesday. Rins confirmed that the 2022 engine seems a bit more powerful, but the aero package needs adjusting to match the extra power. Rins also said that he did a couple of long runs, one with the rear ride height device, and it looked like he was quicker with the device fitted – overall a solid test for Suzuki.
Meanwhile, current World Championship leaders Yamaha had a new chassis to try, but Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Team Manager Massimo Meregalli said that 2022 wasn’t their main focus across the two days. Fabio Quartararo was able to give the 2022 prototype a shakedown on Tuesday, before switching his attention to finding some improvements for the second Misano race coming up in October. He was seventh on Day 2.
Franco Morbidelli (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) was unhurt in two crashes on Day 2 as the Italian continued his adaptation to the 2021 YZR-M1, as well as working his way back to full fitness. Morbidelli felt better than he did during the San Marino GP according to Meregalli, especially with the front end. 70 laps were completed by Morbidelli on Tuesday and Wednesday, now it’s time for some rest ahead of the Americas GP.
This was Valentino Rossi’s (46) final test as a full-time MotoGP rider. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Valentino Rossi (Petronas Yamaha SRT) took part in his final test as a full-time rider on home turf, and on the agenda for the nine-time World Champion was electronic settings, to try and sort out the traction issues he’s been facing. New teammate Andrea Dovizioso’s main aim was to simply get used to his new bike. The Italian did end up testing a carbon swingarm on Day 2, as Dovizioso completed a mammoth 130 laps across the two days.
Meregalli also confirmed that Yamaha test rider Cal Crutchlow will be in Aragon for two days to test the 2022 bike, before heading to Jerez soon after for a three-day test. The British rider will be busy putting next year’s YZR-M1 through its paces over the next couple of months before the 2022 pre-season test in Jerez after the Valencia GP.
KTM’s Miguel Oliveira (88). Photo courtesy Dorna.
After a quiet opening day, Day 2 was a busy one for KTM. A new aero package and air intake were introduced: the intake is bigger and the aero package has an additional set of wings further down than the 2021 RC16. Additionally, Miguel Oliveira (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) had another all-black bike but the aero, air intake and shape of the fairings is the same as the regular bike – which could mean the Austrian factory had something new internally. Oliveira was ninth on Day 2 and teammate Brad Binder 12th.
Remy Gardner (87). Photo courtesy Dorna.
The other major news on Day 2 was the debut of Moto2™ title contenders Remy Gardner (Red Bull KTM Ajo) and teammate Raul Fernandez. Both will be stepping into the Tech3 KTM Factory Racing ranks at the end of the season, and unsurprisingly, the duo more than enjoyed their first outing on a MotoGP™ bike. Both were impressive in terms of pace despite Gardner having a crash, and Fernandez finished the day just over two seconds off the fastest time set by Aleix Espargaro.
Raul Fernandez (25). Photo courtesy Dorna.
For Aprilia, the timesheets told a good story, and the Noale factory first rolled out some new, smaller, thinner aero on test rider Lorenzo Savadori’s bike on the opening day of testing. Maverick Viñales (Aprilia Racing Team Gresini) was the first rider on track as the Spaniard continued to adapt to his new bike, trying different set-ups, and he was able to improve the overall pace. Finding 0.7s, the number 12 made good progress across the two days and finished Wednesday in P8. Viñales didn’t try anything for 2022 in the 149 laps he notched up during the test.
Aleix Espargaro, meanwhile, tried some new aerodynamic configurations and other new parts for the 2022 bike, including a couple of evolutions of the front fairing. The Spaniard confirmed he and Aprilia have made a step forward, with the fastest lap of the day bearing good witness.
A busy, exciting and very interesting Misano Test has drawn to a close! Next up for the MotoGP™ paddock is a trip to Austin and the Circuit of the Americas for Round 15 of the 2021 World Championship, so make sure to join us next weekend for the horsepower rodeo.
Iker Garcia Abella Claims Inaugural Yamaha R3 bLU cRU European Cup Title
In a nail-biting Yamaha R3 bLU cRU European Cup finale at Barcelona, Spain’s Iker Garcia Abella was crowned the inaugural champion, and so earns a supported spot on the FIM Supersport 300 World Championship grid for 2022.
Garcia Abella’s Race 1 victory and his solid seventh-place result in the wet Race 2 saw him lift the title by four points over fellow countryman Julian Giral. Britain’s Fenton Seabright won the final race of the year, seeing him end the season third in the championship standings.
Both Seabright and Giral will get a 50 percent discount on their 2022 Yamaha R3 bLU cRU European Cup campaigns, while the latter will also have the chance to ride a wildcard event in WorldSSP300 next year.
Heading into the final weekend, five riders were all in with a chance of lifting the trophy, with Giral leading Garcia Abella, Slovakia’s Maxim Repak, Seabright and Spain’s Juan Antonio Conesa.
In Free Practice, Conesa headed Garcia Abella and Giral, while Marc Vich Gil meant four Spanish riders locked out the top four positions. Greek rider Ioannis Konstantinos Peristeras was fifth quickest, ahead of Seabright, while Repak started on the backfoot in 10th.
By the time Superpole rolled around though, all five of the title contenders qualified on the first two rows of the grid. 14-year-old Conesa scored his first pole position, with Seabright in second and Garcia Abella in third. Repak had made a step forward to line-up fourth, with Giral behind Peristeras in sixth.
In Race 1, the lead group consisted of 12 riders, with the five contenders all amongst the fight. That was until lap seven, when a multi-bike incident saw four riders DNF, including Repak, effectively dropping him from the championship running. The incident saw the top three pull a gap over the field, with Giral, Garcia Abella and Seabright all chasing the win.
Giral took the chequered flag first, but was handed a penalty for track limits on the final lap, which promoted Garcia Abella to the victory, with Seabright scoring a podium in third.
“It was a very difficult race, because in the first part there was a big group,” Garcia Abella said. “We went really fast and managed to pull a gap. On the last lap, my strategy was to pass Julian in the last corners, but it wasn’t possible. I was angry at the time, but when I got into parc fermé I was happy to get the win in the end.”
These results meant it was a two-way battle for the title in Race 2, with just one point separating Garcia Abella and Giral.
The wet conditions in Race 2 added to the suspense, and neither rider could find the pace to challenge for the lead. Peristeras and Seabright pulled away from the field, with Conesa settling into third. Meanwhile, Garcia Abella and Giral found themselves in a battle with several riders over fourth, with neither wanting to take any unnecessary risks over the nine-lap race.
In the end, Seabright took victory, with Peristeras scoring his best result in second. Conesa completed the podium, with Vich Gil crossing the line in fourth. Garcia Abella eventually came home in seventh, but with Giral only managing 10th, the 17-year-old was crowned champion.
“I am very, very happy. It’s an incredible feeling that I have now,” Garcia Abella said. “The day was really difficult, because in the first race I win but I only had one point to Giral. The rain was really hard and I was nervous going into the final laps, but I’m so happy to be the first champion. If I have a good motorbike, I know I can do good results in the WorldSSP300 championship.”
That concludes the inaugural Yamaha R3 bLU cRU European Cup season, which featured some thrilling races in support of the FIM Superbike World Championship. Registrations for the 2022 edition are set to open on 6th October, so stay tuned for updates.
Andrea Dosoli
Yamaha Motor Europe, Road Racing Manager
“Five riders headed into the weekend with a chance at the title. Considering the young age of these kids, and also the variable weather conditions, I must congratulate all of them for the way they managed the weekend. An incredible result for Iker for having won Race 1 and managing a solid result in Race 2, which were run in difficult conditions. This saw him become the first Yamaha R3 bLU cRU European Cup champion. Also congratulations to Fenton on his victory, he has been fantastic this year. We can be very proud of this first season of the Cup, where we have enjoyed races at a very high level, proving the value of this series, and I would like to thank all the people involved: the organisers, Gianluca Montiron, Alberto Barozzi. I would also like to wish all of these youngsters the best in their future careers. After the success of this year, it’s been nice to see the worldwide interest and soon the registration will open to welcome new youngsters, as well as hopefully welcome back some of the riders from this year.”
The FIM Superbike Superbike World Championship returns to Catalunya in 2022. Photo courtesy Dorna.
A different kind of horsepower: WorldSBK’s ferocious title fight gallops to Jerez
On the edge and on the limit, just one point separates Razgatlioglu and Rea as Andalusia awaits
The 2021 MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship rumbles into the tenth round and the Circuito de Jerez – Angel Nieto in Andalusia, Spain. The Motul Spanish Round will see the 100th WorldSBK race in Spain and welcomed the Championship to the country for the first time back in 1990. At the head of the field, Toprak Razgatlioglu (Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK) has a miniscule one-point lead of title rival and defending six-time World Champion Jonathan Rea (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK), as both push each other to new levels each round in a style never seen before. Not wanting to give an inch and aiming to beat each other to the next corner, let alone just the race, something special awaits at Jerez.
A DUEL TO REMEMBER: Razgatlioglu vs Rea continues
Aiming for a perfect ten in the beautiful south, Toprak Razgatlioglu is hoping to get back to winning ways at Jerez, having not been able to grab a victory at Catalunya. Currently on eight wins for the season, the Turkish sensation is within striking distance of getting to double figures, which would make him the first Yamaha WorldSBK rider to reach this tally in one season. Struck by mechanical problems in Catalunya’s Race 1 and in the Tissot Superpole Race at Jerez in 2020, he hopes that his luck improves this weekend. Teammate Andrea Locatelli is in the mix and after a tricky Catalunya, heads to a circuit he knows well with the aim of helping Toprak as well as returning to the rostrum.
In the slipstream of his title rival, Jonathan Rea knows that Jerez is vital. A track of which he was a winner at in 2020 in but also a track where high track temperatures aren’t favourable for Kawasaki, it’s hard to tell how the weekend will go. Rea’s form however speaks for itself at the Spanish track, with three wins and seven podiums, although he’s only made it to the podium three times out of the last six races held there, only taking one win in the same period. With the Championship so tight at the top, every point matters for Rea, who comes into the round off the back of a sixth place in Race 2 at Catalunya and where high track temperatures once again played a part. Teammate Alex Lowes couldn’t crack the top six at Jerez in 2020 and seeks a first full-race podium since Donington Park.
RED HOT, RED PAINT: Ducati the ones to beat in the heat?
Perhaps Jerez will be painted red for a second year running; Scott Redding (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) is 60 points behind Razgatlioglu but with high track temperatures expected, it may favour the British star and the Ducati Panigale V4 R. Although admitting that they struggle in heat, the capacity to cope with such temperatures seems better for Ducati riders, who maintain a stable race pace and come strong at the end. An inspired tyre choice saw both he and Catalunya Race 2 winner Michael Ruben Rinaldi (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) opt for the SC0 rear tyre instead of the SCX used by their opponents, a choice that gave them a double podium. Redding won twice at Jerez in 2020 with high temperatures, heading a Ducati 1-2. Crucial for title aspirations and the manufacturer standings – Ducati trail leaders Yamaha by just a point – could the Ducati riders be the ones to watch?
BAUTISTA BRILLIANCE: Honda ready to challenge at the front again?
In good form and getting stronger, Alvaro Bautista (Team HRC) is starting to show the potential of the Honda project, having been right in contention during the dry Sunday running in Barcelona. A return to the podium in the Superpole Race and a solid fourth in Race 2, Bautista wishes for more of the same at Jerez. Having recently completed a private test at the Andalusian venue, he and teammate Leon Haslam could well be in a prime position to make hay whilst the sun shines over the Honda box. Haslam also showed strength at Catalunya and both riders were competitive at Jerez in 2020; could we see them in contention once more?
BMW FIGHTBACK: will Jerez see a surprise?
The BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team head to Jerez with mixed thoughts, with Tom Sykes’ participation to be confirmed following his Race 2 crash at Catalunya that brought out the Red Flag and left him with severe concussion. Teammate Michael van der Mark is the lead rider heading to Jerez, a circuit he won at back in 2019, his last full-race victory to-date. He is five points clear of Sykes in the standings and just 29 from a top five placing overall. Firmly in the battle and heading to a track where he took a podium in 2020, van der Mark will be keen to shine.
CLOSING UP: the Independent battle isn’t so nailed on after all…
The Independent battle is alive and kicking with the top two getting closer; Axel Bassani’s podium coupled with Garrett Gerloff’s Race 1 sighting lap crash means just 26 points split the pair, Gerloff ahead. Chaz Davies (Team GoEleven) is out for Jerez, replaced by 2020 podium-finisher and current MotoAmerica star Loris Baz. The Frenchman is back in action at a circuit he took two top five finishes at in 2020. Lucas Mahias (Kawasaki Puccetti Racing) is the next Independent in 14th overall, just a point clear of Japanese rookie Kohta Nozane (GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team). At Catalunya, Nozane was top Yamaha in Race 1 and took his first top ten in a full-distance race.
Outside of the main protagonists, Isaac Viñales (ORELAC Racing VerdNatura) hopes he can continue his progress, whilst Christophe Ponsson comes to Jerez off the back of his first ever top ten finish in WorldSBK after Catalunya’s Superpole Race. Jonas Folger (Bonovo MGM Racing) aims to return to the points at a circuit he won at in 2015’s Moto2™ season, whereas Leandro Mercado (MIE Racing Honda Team) aims to build on a first top ten of 2021 at Catalunya. Samuele Cavalieri (Barni Racing Team) returns to action, whilst Loris Cresson (OUTDO TPR Team Pedercini Racing) heads for Jerez with Lachlan Epis as teammate once again. Two extra riders for the weekend: Marvin Fritz (IXS-YART Yamaha) and Andrea Mantovani (Vince64) both join the field again.
A 2022-model Suzuki GSX-S1000GT+. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
The All-New 2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000GT
The Soul of a Champion. Ready to Go the Distance.
Brea, CA (September 22, 2021) – Introducing the all-new 2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000GT. Suzuki Motor USA, LLC (Suzuki) is thrilled to unveil a high-performance motorcycle with a soul of a champion that delivers features and technologies enhancing any long-distance sport tour. A high-performance, yet comfortable motorcycle with optional attractive integrated side cases (or standard as part of the GSX-S1000GT+ model) and a sophisticated, avant-garde look that creates its own category – Grand Touring – ready to take the rider any distance with speed and comfort.
The GSX-S1000GT’s total performance is transformative, breaking new ground for a sport touring motorcycle, and the new SUZUKI mySPIN connectivity application integrates with a large, full-color TFT instrument panel to provide easy access to a wide range of smartphone information and entertainment options augmenting any ride.
A 2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000GT at speed. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
Using legendary and proven GSX-R engine architecture, the 999cc four-stroke, liquid-cooled DOHC in-line four superbike engine delivers smooth, consistent power throughout a wide and linear powerband.
The GSX-S1000GT’s engine offers multiple updated components to best deliver performance where a Grand Touring rider demands it. Enhancements to the engine include revised intake and exhaust camshafts, cam chain tensioners and valve springs, as well as a redesigned clutch and gearshift components.
All updated to take the best aspects of GSX-R championship-winning engineering and apply it to the real-world demands of riders seeking spectacular performance and tractability for high-mileage tours on challenging, exciting roads. All delivering an even broader, smoother torque curve with fewer peaks and valleys. These components also help enhance performance versus the prior model while delivering full Euro 5 emissions compliance.
The profile of a 2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000GT. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
Refined engine performance is managed by expanded Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (SIRS) technology, including electronic cruise control, five modes of adjustable traction control* and bi-directional clutchless quick-shifting, helping augment sport rides on Sunday mornings as well as cross-continent tours. SIRS is rounded out with an updated Low RPM Assist system and Suzuki’s Easy Start System, providing improved starting control and a simpler starting procedure.
The strong twin-spar aluminum frame and braced swingarm help deliver agile handling and great road-holding ability. Visually attractive, the new trellis-style sub-frame design creates secure attachment points for the high capacity 36L side cases, while allowing for a more comfortable passenger seat.
Color-matched side cases are optional on the Suzuki GSX-S1000GT and standard on the GSX-S1000GT+. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
The GSX-S1000GT’s suspension control will also easily adapt to the needs of two-up riding, thanks to its fully adjustable, inverted KYB fork and easy-to-adjust rear shock. The dual, ABS-equipped**, radial-mounted, four-piston, Brembo-front brake calipers and 310mm floating rotors help provide the confident, controlled stopping performance needed when travelling with a passenger and gear on an extended ride.
Comfort is vital for miles of effortless grand touring performance, and the GSX-S1000GT is ready to conquer high performance rides of any distance. The new cast-aluminum handlebar is wider than the prior bike’s handlebar, and is shaped and positioned for a comfortable reach, delivering the proper leverage to guide the GSX-S1000GT on any road. The handlebar’s special rubber mount damps vibration while the footrests have durable rubber inserts to damp vibration to the rider’s and passenger’s boots. The GT emphasizes long ride comfort as well as exhilaration.
The 2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000GT has new seats for rider and passenger. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
The rider and passenger seats have a new sporty design maximizing comfort on long rides, and both seats sport a new cover material that balances grip with freedom of movement. The rider’s seat-shape further enhances freedom of movement, while the pillion seat design maximizes passenger comfort and integrates well with the new grab-bar design.
Despite their spacious storage capacity, the GT’s large-capacity side cases (Optional on the GSX-S1000GT, and standard on the GSX-S1000GT+) feature a compact design that integrates seamlessly with the motorcycle’s sharp, futuristic styling. With 36L of storage capacity, each side case may hold most full-face helmets. To further integrate them to the motorcycle, an optional color-matched side case painted panel set provides a perfect match to the GSX-S1000GT body colors. Optional locksets are available that may be set so the motorcycle’s ignition key opens the side case lid or disengages the quick-release mechanism. Side cases and mounts, color-matched painted panel sets, and side case lock sets are standard on the GSX-S1000GT+.
The GSX-S1000GT puts a new face on sport touring performance and comfort. The striking and original face of the GT begins with a raked nose, while a pair of horizontally arranged LED headlights, V-shaped position light, new mirror design, and side-mounted LED turn signals fashion a unique Grand Touring appearance that is distinctively Suzuki. The GT’s daring styling continues into the standard side cases and optional touring windshield for a fully integrated appearance.
The view from the cockpit of a 2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000GT. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
The GSX-S1000GT’s instrument panel uses a new-generation 6.5-inch, full-color TFT LCD screen. Developed specifically for use on motorcycles, this large TFT display is the first of its kind on a Suzuki motorcycle. This high-quality instrument panel is set into the inner fairing above the handlebars, for great visibility and protection from debris. The brightness-adjustable TFT panel features a scratch-resistant surface and an anti-reflective coating that help improves visibility in bright light.
The TFT display uses GSX-S1000GT-exclusive graphics, including blue background lines that add an extra visual touch to help convey Suzuki’s spirit and brand identity. An additional feature of the TFT screen is a brief custom animation that plays when the ignition key is switched on. This playful presentation is pleasing to the eye and builds excitement for the ride to come.
The TFT readouts include: Speedometer (digital), RPM indicator (shift light), Tachometer (analog format), Transmission gear position, Fuel gauge, Coolant temperature, Ambient air temperature, Cruise control setting, SDMS mode, Traction control mode, Quick Shift (ON/OFF), Voltmeter, Clock (12-hour format), Odometer, Dual trip meter, Average fuel consumption (Trip 1 & 2), Instant fuel consumption, Riding range (per fuel onboard), Smartphone battery level, Smartphone connection status, and Rider-passenger intercommunication status (Bluetooth®).
The TFT display was developed to provide smartphone connectivity through the SUZUKI mySPIN application. While competitive models use systems originally developed for automobiles, the GSX-S1000GT adopts hardware and software designed specifically for the demands of motorcycle use. As such, SUZUKI mySPIN works seamlessly on the TFT screen to enrich the functionality of smartphone connectivity. The GSX-S1000GT’s smart cockpit blends riding and vehicle status updates, such as the speedometer and tachometer readouts, with pertinent information, communication, and entertainment from the rider’s smartphone.
Located to the left of the instrument panel is a USB outlet the rider may use to connect an iOS or AndroidTM smartphone to the TFT panel. The data connection can also be established via Wireless LAN and Bluetooth. The USB outlet can also charge the smartphone’s battery.
Available through the Apple App Store or Google Play, riders can install the free SUZUKI mySPIN app on their smartphone. Once installed, mySPIN provides an array of useful functions from five bundled applications specifically developed for motorcycle use.
The mySPIN system applications include Contacts, Phone, Maps, Music, and Calendar
Contacts – the system can access the contacts application on the smartphone and inform the rider who is calling. Calls can also be placed by selecting a contact from the list.
Phone – conveniently, the system can place phone calls, either dialed directly or from the contacts application, and can display the rider’s call history, all without stopping the bike.
Maps – the rider can view his or her current location on the map without having to download any third-party map application or data. The Suzuki Map can search for destinations and get routing information, all while allowing the rider to easily navigate from screen to screen by using the switches on the left handlebar.
Music & Content – the rider can use a Bluetooth headset to listen to music, podcasts, or other content from his or her smartphone’s library; the passenger can listen, as well, if they are wearing a Bluetooth headset wirelessly connected to the system.
Calendar – the rider can display calendar entries from his or her smartphone on the TFT screen, checking scheduled events and reminders.
The GT’s body colors include majestic Metallic Reflective Blue, and the sleek Glass Sparkle Black, each set off with distinctive GT logos, indelibly stamping the 2022 GSX-S1000GT and GT+ as motorcycling’s newest and most sophisticated, high-performance Grand Touring leaders. Manufacturer’s Suggested Pricing for both models will be announced.
The all-new 2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000GT and GSX-S1000GT+ will be available in Suzuki dealers in early 2022. For more information, please visit the Suzuki website.
*The Traction Control System is not a substitute for the rider’s throttle control. It cannot prevent loss of traction due to excessive speed when the rider enters a turn and/or applies the brakes. Neither can it prevent the front wheel from losing grip.
**Depending on road surface conditions, such as wet, loose, or uneven roads, braking distance for an ABS-equipped vehicle may be longer than for a vehicle not equipped with ABS. ABS cannot prevent wheel skidding caused by braking while cornering. Please ride carefully and do not overly rely on ABS.
Suzuki mySPIN related disclaimers:
Headsets sold separately.
Smartphone screen images in Suzuki-authored documents were prepared using iOS 13.5, so they may differ visually when using a different OS or system version.
App operation was confirmed under specific conditions. Depending on the OS and system version, some apps may not operate properly, or functions may be limited to ensure safe operation.
Third-party apps are not under Suzuki control, and Suzuki is not responsible for their content or privacy policies.
Suzuki cannot guarantee proper operation of third-party apps.
Some third-party offerings are paid apps. Please confirm before installing new apps. Please refer to the respective terms of use when installing and using third-party apps. Some third-party apps may not be installable or may appear differently, depending on the country or region, or on the OS or system version.
Apple and the Apple logo are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.
IOS is a trademark or registered trademark of Cisco in the U.S. and other countries and is used under license.
Google Play and the Google Play logo are trademarks of Google LLC. Android is a trademark of Google LLC.
The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc., and any use of such marks by BOSCH is under license. Other trademarks and trade names are those of their respective owners.
A Piaggio MP3 three-wheel scooter, which has a patented front wheel tilting system. Photo courtesy Piaggio Group.
PIAGGIO GROUP WINS FIRST-INSTANCE EUROPEAN PATENT INFRINGEMENT SUITS AGAINST PEUGEOT MOTOCYCLES IN PARIS AND MILAN
AFTER THE VESPA, THE UNIQUE NATURE OF THE PIAGGIO MP3 SCOOTER IS ALSO RECOGNISED
The Piaggio Group continues its fight to protect its products against counterfeits
Paris – Milan – The Piaggio Group (PIA.MI) said that, with rulings issued within a few days of each other, both the Tribunal Judiciaire of Paris and the Court of Milan had found Peugeot Motocycles (now owned by an Indian Group) guilty of infringing a European patent on the technology of the Piaggio MP3 three-wheel scooter with the Peugeot Metropolis model.
The patent in question owned by the Piaggio Group to which the rulings in its favour refer (still subject to appeal) relates to the control system that enables a three-wheel vehicle to tilt sideways like a conventional motorcycle.
For the infringement, Peugeot Motocycles has been sentenced in France to pay damages calculated at 1,500,000 euro, in addition to further penalties for infringement and legal expenses.
The ruling of the Paris court also prohibits Peugeot Motocycles on French territory from producing, promoting, marketing, importing, exporting, using and/or possessing any three-wheel scooter that uses the control system patented by the Piaggio Group (including the Peugeot Metropolis), on penalty of payment of a fine for every counterfeit vehicle.
The Court of Milan has prohibited Peugeot Motocycles on Italian territory from importing, exporting, marketing and advertising (offline and online) the Peugeot Metropolis, with a fine of € 6,000 established for every vehicle sold after a term of 30 days from the announcement of the sentence. Peugeot Motocycles must also withdraw all counterfeit vehicles from sale in Italy within 90 days, on penalty of payment of an additional fine of € 10,000 for every day of delay in executing the order.
A 2022-model MV Agusta F3 RR at speed. Photo courtesy MV Agusta.
MV AGUSTA F3 RR: THE UNRIVALLED
The RR undoubtedly represents the icing on the cake of the F3 range, the pinnacle of performance, fitting and technological evolution. Whether it is a matter of mechanics,
chassis or aerodynamics every single detail of the MV Agusta F3 RR has been conceived to offer class-leading performance. That’s why this bike plays the role of a unique interpreter of the supersport segment.
MECHANICAL AND ELECTRONIC REVOLUTION
All the three-cylinder engines of the 2021 MV range have received many technical updates. Those on the F3 RR, in particular, have been concentrated on achieving the best performance ever.
The lap time, that’s its focus, has been achieved also counting on the valuable experience MV engineers honed on Moto2 World Championship, a specific challenging scenario characterized by an obsessive attention to aerodynamic details and chassis excellence. All this, of course, without forgetting the pleasure of road riding, which has been among the core values of the entire three-cylinder range for 2021. The sporty thrill takes however a great prominence. To be precise, its performance has been further improved thanks to the meticulous aerodynamic study as well as to the addition of functional technical elements, which help to set the bar in terms of maximum efficiency.
A 2022-model MV Agusta F3 RR. Photo courtesy MV Agusta.
CHASSIS: EXCELLENCE GETS EVEN BETTER
The world-renowned chassis, recognized since its début as the best in the segment, consistently remains a reference point. But that’s not enough.
The F3 RR goes even further. The redesign of the frame plates, with particular focus on the swingarm area, has led to an increase in torsional and longitudinal rigidity, a solution that have not only contributed of enhancing riding precision, but also increased the rider’s feeling. The suspension setting is specifically conceived for this new RR and has been adapted to the new rigidity to maximize the effectiveness for both excellent on-track performance and outstanding on-road ridability. The new rear rim features a specific design and has been obtained through an innovative casting process with a weight saving of 7% and, consequently, a reduction in inertia of 10%. The result? Lower unsprung weight, for a more rewarding riding experience.
ENGINE: EVEN MORE ADVANCED
The “Trepistoni” engine has undergone a constant development activity which has led to a significant improvement by reducing internal friction and increasing the smoothness of riding without, however, sacrificing its intense character.
Despite full compliance with Euro 5 regulations, the overall refreshment led to confirm its 147hp engine among the most powerful not only within its category but also in the 800s. All this is the result of a careful fine-tuning work on the timing system by adopting new valve guides and DLC treatment for the tappets. The titanium valves allow to reach very high rotation speeds, while the newly designed main bearings reduce inertia and friction and further enhance reliability. The exhaust system has been entirely revamped, from the manifold to the silencer, to satisfy the power curves. Torque and power are now more generous at all revs, without however sacrificing the proverbial MV Agusta’s three-cylinder acceleration as well as its unmistakable tune. The engine is still very powerful yet even more affordable. The new injectors are now capable of managing an increased injection pressure of 0.5 bar. ECU firmware, management logics and the engine control algorithms were also renewed, all this helping the rider to take advantage of an even more precise and refined throttle management. Additionally, to improve cooling, a new dual-flow oil radiator has been adopted with a consequently enhanced efficiency of 5%.
A 2022-model MV Agusta F3 RR. Photo courtesy MV Agusta.
SHIFT: MORE PRECISE AND FASTER
Even the clutch has undergone some changes. It in fact features a reinforced hub, which has been improved in terms of manageability and reduced noise. The Quick-Shift EAS 3.0 with bi-directional function is in its third generation and enhances the quality of shifting, now smoother and more precise courtesy of new sensor.
ELECTRONICS: MORE COMPLETE THAN EVER
From the dashboard to the ABS as well as the controls and the firmware of the control unit: electronics of the F3 entire family marks a clear breakthrough compared to the past. The début of a brand-new IMU inertial platform – designed and developed in Italy by the Milan-based e-Novia exclusively for MV Agusta – allows for extremely precise management of all controls according to the lean angle by reading the position of the motorcycle in space. The new ABS by Continental features cornering function while the traction control can operate more precisely, also taking into account the inclination of the bike. Also thanks to the IMU, the renewed FLC front lift control takes the wheelie under control instead of entirely preventing it. Everything is managed by a 5.5” TFT dashboard, able to communicate with the MVRide App. This latter (available for IOS and Android) not only allows to record and share journeys through the main social platforms, but also offers the opportunity to personalize the bike in every aspect (engine settings included), directly from the smartphone. Thanks to the mirroring function it is thus possible to navigate turn by turn, a further function to the recording and sharing of the route. Lastly, the handlebar controls features a new right-hand block with launch control button and a left-hand block with a practical joystick for browsing through several dashboard menus.
SUPERSTRUCTURE
The F3 RR has undergone specific in-depth study and tests in the wind tunnel which led to the integration of some aerodynamic elements into the fairings. These interventions serve a dual purpose: enhancing performance and also increasing engine efficiency.
The appendages, positioned on the side of the fairing and made of forged carbon, for example, are capable of producing a load of 8 kg on the front end at 240 km/h. These components are part of an aerodynamic package, which also includes higher windshield, new carbon fairing sides and new mudguard which, among other things, also improves the airflow to the radiator. The latter elements have been designed to further improve CX coefficient, thus fully compensating for the greater resistance to advancement caused by the winglets. In brief, the F3 RR did not lose in maximum speed but gained in front end load, also reviving impressive feeling and cornering performance. This is another example of how on the F3 RR every technical detail has been designed exclusively to increase performance. The new footpegs, characterized by a further dose of grip, and the new anti-slip coating for the saddle are still part of the revolution.
Part of the racing kit available to purchase with an MV Agusta F3 RR. Photo courtesy MV Agusta.
THE RACING KIT
MV Agusta F3 RR is an extremely complete and performing bike. Since everything can be improved, the customer is therefore offered the opportunity to embellish and transform the stock MV Agusta F3 RR into a unique bike with a special kit that includes additional CNC machined components (such as fuel cap, brake and clutch levers) along with a seat cover that turns the bike into a single-seater. The real gem of the kit, however, is the Akrapovič titanium exhaust – road approved -, supplied with a dedicated control unit, which boosts the power up to 155hp and reduces the weight from 173 to 165 kg (dry).
MV AGUSTA F3 RR MY22 MAIN NEW FEATURES
• DEDICATED AERODYNAMICS
• LOW-FRICTION, EURO 5 COMPLIANT ENGINE
• HIGH PRESSURE INJECTORS
• BI-DIRECTIONAL RADIATOR
• NEWLY DESIGNED EXHAUST SYSTEM – AKRAPOVIC OPTIONAL
A 2022 Triumph Tiger 900 Bond Edition. Photo courtesy Triumph.
NEW Tiger 900 Bond Edition
Celebrating the partnership between two British icons, Triumph is pleased to announce a stunning new limited edition inspired by the incredible Tiger 900 Rally Pro, which features in amazing stunt sequences in the forthcoming 25th James Bond film, No Time To Die.
Just like the Bond films, Triumph Motorcycles brings a well-established and instantly recognizable British authenticity, fashioned and proven over time.
With a long and illustrious history in designing, developing, and manufacturing premium motorcycles with exceptional levels of performance, capability and handling, Triumph provided the James Bond stunt team with the perfect fit for the key action sequences in Bond’s latest outing, through the incredibly capable Tiger 900’s and Scrambler 1200’s.
Lee Morrison, No Time To Die stunt coordinator: “The Tiger 900 is the most confidence-inspiring bike, it allows you to really push the ride as far as you want, you can take as many liberties as you want; stand up sideways drifting in third gear, slow wheelie it, slide it Supermoto-style. I honestly think it’s one of the best bikes I’ve ever ridden, it’s fantastic.”
Limited Edition
Strictly limited to just 250 motorcycles globally, the new Tiger 900 Bond Edition celebrates the iconic British partnership between James Bond and Triumph.
Each of these stunning motorcycles are individually numbered and come with a signed certificate of authenticity.
Desirable, Distinctive and Sophisticated
The Tiger 900 Bond Edition features a unique and eye-catching Matt Sapphire Black paint scheme and 007TM graphics, enhancing the bike’s stand-out look and premium style and making this a truly unique and desirable motorcycle.
Each motorcycle also comes with a premium, billet machined handlebar clamp, with the bike’s unique limited edition number.
Finally with the unique styling details, the Tiger 900 Bond Edition includes premium ‘blacked out’ detailing throughout. The frame, headlight finishers, side panels, sump guard, pillion footrest hangers, auxiliary lamp shrouds and engine guards all have a premium, black finish.
Premium detailing and equipment
Enhancing the Bond Edition theme, the new limited edition Tiger 900 features an exciting bespoke 007TM start up screen animation and heated rider and pillion seat, crafted with unique Bond Edition branding.
Along with all of the Tiger 900 Rally Pro’s category-dominating specification the new limited edition also comes with an additional pair of high performance Michelin Anakee Wild handbook approved off-road tires (in addition to the factory fitted Bridgestone Battlax tires), and a premium Arrow Silencer, which features a lightweight brushed stainless steel body, with a carbon end cap and strap.
Available in US and Canadian dealerships in May/June 2022
Travis Wyman (10) during one of the wet MotoAmerica Superbike races at Barber Motorsports Park. Photo by Brian J Nelson, courtesy Travis Wyman Racing.
Travis Wyman scores podium finish in Stock 1000 race at MotoAmerica season finale
Motul-sponsored BMW rider secures second place in Stock 1000, Superbike Cup standings at Barber Motorsports Park
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — It was a positive conclusion to the 2021 MotoAmerica season for Travis Wyman, as the Motul-sponsored rider scored a podium finish in the final Stock 1000 race of the year and ended the season runner-up in the Stock 1000 and Superbike Cup points standings.
The BMW rider put in an excellent performance in two days of racing in challenging wet conditions Sept. 17-19 at Barber Motorsports Park and was twice in the hunt for a top-five Superbike finish or better. Though he came up just short of his goal of winning two MotoAmerica No. 1 plates, Wyman – like he has all season – got the most he could out of his BMW S 1000 RR and put his title sponsor Motul back on the MotoAmerica podium.
Wyman and the other top 10 riders in the Superbike Cup standings practiced and qualified with the Superbike Class at Barber. In Friday practice, Wyman put in the ninth-fastest time of the session and was second among the Superbike Cup riders. Later Friday, Wyman finished Qualifying 1 in 11th and was third among the Cup competitors. Qualifying wrapped up Saturday morning in wet conditions with Wyman having claimed third on the Stock 1000 grid – his fourth front row starting spot of the season – and 12th for the Saturday Superbike race.
Saturday also featured the weekend’s lone Stock 1000 race and one Superbike race. In the Stock 1000 contest, Wyman struggled in the early laps of the race on the 2.38-mile Barber circuit. After falling as far down the running order as sixth at the end of Lap 1, Wyman had advanced to fourth place by the end of Lap 4. With two laps to go, Wyman made his move into third place, which he held on to by a margin of more than five seconds. Rain continued to pour down on Barber Motorsports Park later Saturday when Superbike Race 1 got underway. Wyman got an excellent start and had moved up the running order five positions by the end of Lap 1. After advancing one position per lap on Laps 2-4, Wyman was running in third at the end of Lap 6 but suffered a crash at the exit of the Museum Corner on Lap 7 and had to retire from the race.
In Sunday’s Superbike Race 2, Wyman had to start the race 20th — third to last — because of his crash on Saturday. Wyman got off the line well again and moved up from 20th to 17th on the first lap. After passing two more riders in the next two laps, Wyman had moved up to 12th place when the race was stopped on Lap 12 of 17 due to wildlife being loose on the racetrack. In Superbike Race 3, Wyman had a banner first lap as he moved up from 13th on the starting grid to eighth by the end of the lap. After running as high as seventh on Laps 2-4, Wyman began experiencing a fogging problem with his helmet’s face shield. The problem forced him to back off his pace, and Wyman had to settle for an 11th-place finish.
With the 2021 MotoAmerica season having come to an end, the Travis Wyman Racing BMW team thanks its many sponsors, especially Motul, and its many enthusiastic fans for another great season of MotoAmerica competition.
Travis Wyman / No. 10
“Friday qualifying went well, and it felt great to have a new engine in our BMW S 1000 RR. We were less than a tenth of a second off the Stock 1000 pole, and we knew on Saturday that the rest of the weekend was going to be wet. We used Qualifying 2 on Saturday morning to work on our wet setup, which felt great on Saturday and Sunday. It was drying conditions in the Stock 1000 race, and I was pretty tentative off the start. I had a great battle with another rider for the last podium spot. Getting third was great for the team and allowed me to secure second place in the Stock 1000 championship. It rained really hard for the Saturday Superbike race, and I was in the running for my first Superbike podium before crashing out. I got more comfortable as the Sunday morning Superbike race went on and was able to work my way from 20th to 12th. I felt great in the last Superbike race, but my shield fogged up so bad that I couldn’t see and had to battle that issue the rest of the race. I was lifting my shield on the back straight trying to wipe it dry and had to actually rip the face shield off to finish the last lap of that race, which was pretty frustrating.”
More, from a press release issued by Royal Enfield North America:
BUILD. TRAIN. RACE. ROAD RACING WRAPS UP AT BARBER MOTOAMERICA
CJ Lukacs completes the hat trick at rain-soaked final at Alabama’s Barber Motorsports Park
(From left) Kayla Theisler, CJ Lukacs, and Trisha Dahl celebrate on the podium at Barber Motorsports Park, the final round of Royal Enfield’s BUILD. TRAIN. RACE. Road Race series. Photo courtesy Royal Enfield North America.
Milwaukee, WI – The rain-soaked and program-delayed round of MotoAmerica at Barber Motorsports Park in Birmingham, Alabama, might not have been the season final anyone was hoping for, including the women of Royal Enfield’s Build. Train. Race. (BTR), but for a program with the goal of cultivating the life experience that comes through racing motorcycles, perhaps it was a fitting way to close the series after all.
CJ Lukacs (77) at speed. Photo courtesy Royal Enfield North America.
“It was a bit of a wild weekend for the Royal Enfield Build. Train. Race. Road Racers,” said Breeann Poland, Marketing and Communications Lead – Royal Enfield Americas. “We had some pretty serious weather, some difficult racing conditions, and several spills in the wet. But this is racing, and it’s not for the weak. The challenges are all part of the experience that shapes us. It’s finding your limits, getting up after you fall, dealing with the unexpected and working to solve problems while the clock is ticking. These women faced all of these challenges at Barber this weekend and really pushed through. To say that I’m proud of them would be a gross understatement.”
Down to a four-rider field after rain delays left Sunday’s program in doubt (and several team members having to head to the airport), the Royal Enfield BTR race finally got underway. Photo courtesy Royal Enfield North America.
After the original start time was postponed during to Sunday’s downpour, many Royal Enfield team members were sent scrambling to rebook flights in the attempt to stay at the ready for a race that may or may not even take place. Five of the seven-rider field were able and/or willing to stick it out in the hopes of getting their track time, and fortunately the MotoAmerica crew found a way to slot in time for the third of three BTR Road Racing exhibition races in the revised schedule.
Kayla Theisler was thrilled to get her first podium finish of the season at her favorite track. It might have been a win if she hadn’t run out of time. Photo courtesy Royal Enfield North America.
CJ Lukacs, who all but dominated the first two rounds, found herself on a second-row start behind Kayla Theisler, Trisha Dahl and Alyssa Bridges (fifth rider Michaela Trumbull experienced mechanical issues on the warmup lap and did not make the start). Dahl grabbed the holeshot and lead the early charge, but was soon overtaken by Lukacs and Theisler. The trio remained tight in the opening laps in what was the closest racing all season.
“We battled back and forth almost every corner,” said Lukacs. “It was so exciting! Having that push between all of us, bar to bar, there’s nothing else like it.”
Lukacs maneuvered her way out front, only a bike-length or two in front of the number 52 of Theisler. Given more time, Theisler might have overtaken the point, but a red flag handed the top spot to Lukacs by a fraction of a second, with Dahl and Bridges not far off. In the end, it cemented the former pro motocrosser’s top spot in the BTR Road Racing ranks, making for a clean sweep of the three-round series.
“We all wanted to finish upright,” Lukacs said, “and the fact that we did so, even through battling each other in crazy track conditions, makes me so proud. I am humbled by everyone’s talent and growth. As crazy as this last round was, the experience of racing in the rain for the first time couldn’t have been better.”
The finish marked Theisler’s first podium of the championship, while Trisha Dahl’s third-place finish completes her podium sweep of the series, having finished in the top-three at every BTR MotoAmerica event this season.
Trisha Dahl (144) showed good consistency, landing her third podium finish of the three-round exhibition series. Photo courtesy Royal Enfield North America.
“What a weekend!” Trisha Dahl exclaimed. “My nerves were through the roof and I had no idea how hard I could push it. As my mentor Melissa Paris would say, ‘to finish first, you must first finish.’ I kept the inputs light but also stayed aggressive on the throttle when I knew the bike was upright. For the very little experience we have on rain tires, I am very impressed with myself and all my teammates. We went headfirst into this weekend and adapted to every challenge that was presented. I’m so proud to be a part of this team.”
Kayla Theisler echoed the sentiment, “Royal Enfield not only provided the resources for me to grow as a rider and racer, they also allowed me to create lasting relationships with so many talented, strong, inspiring women. I’m grateful and humbled to be a part of this trailblazing program for women in motorcycling.”
“That wasn’t an easy weekend, and we’d like to thank MotoAmerica for shuffling the program and giving our racers the chance to finish out their season,” Breeann Poland added. “And, of course, to all our sponsors who really came through, once again! After several spills on Saturday morning in the rain, these ladies worked so hard to repair their Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 race bikes in order to be ready for Sunday. We’re beyond thrilled to see a strong finish to our first Build. Train. Race. season with MotoAmerica and we’re already looking forward going bigger next year.”
The Royal Enfield BTR Road Racing program has concluded for 2021, and is looking forward to an expanded platform with MotoAmerica next season. Look for an announcement on the 2022 Royal Enfield BUILD. TRAIN. RACE. USA Road Racing program, including details on the application period, in the coming weeks.
The BUILD. TRAIN. RACE. Flat Track program will race their fourth and final round at the Charlotte Half-Mile in Charlotte, North Carolina on October 8. Find more information on the Royal Enfield BTR programs at https://buildtrainrace.com/.
About Royal Enfield
The oldest motorcycle company in continuous production in the world, Royal Enfield made its first motorcycle in 1901. A division of Eicher Motors Limited, Royal Enfield has created the midsize motorcycle segment in India with its unique and distinctive modern classic motorcycles. With its manufacturing base in Chennai, India, Royal Enfield has been able to grow its production rapidly against a surge in demand for its motorcycles. Royal Enfield is a leading player in the global middleweight motorcycle market.
Royal Enfield North America (RENA) is headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and is developing a growing network of more than 140 dealers in North America, including the contiguous U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico. RENA currently offers the all-new Meteor 350, Himalayan and the 650 Twins (INT 650 and Continental GT 650) motorcycles, along with a range of Genuine Motorcycle Accessories and apparel.
For more information on Royal Enfield North America, visit www.RoyalEnfield.com/us/en/, www.Instagram.com/RoyalEnfield_NA, www.Facebook.com/RoyalEnfieldNorthAmerica.
More, from a press release issued by N2 Racing:
Blake Davis Finishes Top 5 at Barber Motorsports Park!
Blake Davis (22) in action in the rain at Barber Motorsports Park. Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy N2 Racing.
Birmingham, AL (September 2021) – N2 Racing’s Blake Davis finished fifth on his Yamaha YZF-R3 in the last race of the MotoAmerica Junior Cup season after dealing with mixed conditions and torrential rain. Blake also finished in seventh place in Junior Cup Race 1 and these two combined finishes secured sixth place in the championship.
Friday practice and qualifying were dry and Blake was competitive in every session. In QP1, Blake was able to turn a lap time of 1:37.110 which would be his fastest lap of the weekend, because then, the rain came down. The rain never stopped either, just changing in degrees of intensity from a light drizzle to torrential down poor.
Blakes time from Friday put him seventh, in the inside of row three for the start. The race was started under heavy rain and Blake got a great start. Visibility and traction were changing lap to lap and several competitors struggled with crashes. Blake battled with Max Van for most of the race, bringing the number 22 home in seventh place.
Sunday started off fantastic with Blake finishing in the first position in the morning warmup. The team had worked hard to develop a better wet set up after Saturday’s race and it paid off. Race 2 was held in a soaking rain. Blake struggled at the start, fading back to eighth place in the first few laps. As the chaos of the start calmed down, Blake was able to put his head down and start working his way through the field. Blake eventually worked his way up to fifth place at the finish and secured sixth place in the season championship standings.
Kris Smith (Team Owner) – “Our team is pretty proud of Blake Davis for showing us all what a true pro he is in the most challenging conditions. It feels good to finish the season on a positive and Blake took care of that for our team with his 5th in race two. I’m especially pleased that he was able to score points in 16 out of 18 races this year and take 6th in the championship. Blake will be the first to tell you he has more to offer and I’m a believer. I’m pretty excited about our plans for N2 Racing and the 2022 season which we hope to be announcing in the near future.”
Shiloh Salopek (Crew Chief) – “As challenging as this season has been for the whole team it was great to end the season on a good note. Blake has impressed me more and more every round with his dedication and positive attitude no matter what has been thrown our way. I am very happy to have the opportunity to continue on working with him in 2022 in what is shaping up to be the best year yet for N2.”
Blake Davis – “It was a crazy way to finish what has been an amazing and challenging season. This weekend was a lot like the entire season. We had lots of ups and downs, but we overcame all of our challenges as a team. I would like to thank all of the sponsors for their support. I can’t thank Kris Smith, Shiloh, Emerson, and my family enough for all the hard work this year. Thank you for believing in me and I can’t wait for what’s coming next season.”
About N2 Track Days:
N2 provides a structured riding environment for sport-bike riders of all levels promoting motorcycle safety through instruction on a closed course racetrack. Our instructors and coaching staff are comprised of club-racers, pro racers, and experienced track day riders who are articulate and passionate about all aspects of this sport. N2 strives to provide an enjoyable riding experience in an environment where members can hone their skills and inspire confidence in their riding ability. Riding with N2 means you and your sportbike gain access to a structured environment without the hazards, limitations, distractions, and obstacles that you’ll find on the street.
N2 Racing is proudly sponsored by: N2 Track Days, BobbleHeadMoto, SBS Brakes, Renthal, Motorex, Shoei Helmets, Ohlins USA, Trading Paint, Westby Racing, and Moto Liberty
More, from a press release issued by Altus Motorsports:
MotoAmerica: Jake Lewis Clinches the 2021 MotoAmerica Superbike Cup Championship. Results from Round 9 Barber Motorsports Park for the Altus Motorsports Tucker Environmental Service Solutions Team
(Birmingham, AL) – The unrelenting rain at Barber Motorsports Park in Birmingham, Alabama could not dampen the spirits of the Altus Motorsports team. For the second year in a row, the Altus team won the MotoAmerica Stock 1000 & Superbike Cup Championship.
Jake Lewis (85). Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy Altus Motorsports.
Honos Superbike & Stock 1000:
After clinching the Stock 1000 championship last round, Jake Lewis came into the final round of the MotoAmerica 2021 season looking to do the same with the Superbike Cup. And he did. Lewis started the first of the weekend’s three Superbike races from 10th on the grid and in a wet and crash-laden race, he finished in 5th. He was the second-fastest Stock 1000 bike, but it was good enough to clinch the Superbike Cup championship. In the second Superbike race, he again finished 5th and took 9th in the third and final race of the season.
Jake also won the last Stock 1000 race of the year. In the 2021 Stock 1000 championship season, Lewis only finished off the podium three times. All totaled, he claimed 6 wins, two second-place finishes, a third, two fourths, and one DNF.
“I cannot thank George and Janette Nassaney and the Altus Motorsports team enough for giving me the opportunity to ride this year. I’ve said it before, last year I was out of the paddock and thought my racing career might be over. George is an amazing person. He always wants to win, but there was never any pressure. Even if I was running 3rd or 4th, he was just supportive. I also have to thank Eric Gray, my crew chief. He and my mechanics, Tony and David did an incredible job every round. I’m incredibly grateful to my personal sponsors: Roclun International, Service Tools and Plastics, Pikanty Group, Arai Helmets, and Cortech Leathers,” said Jake Lewis.
Supersport 600:
It was a wet and wild weekend for the Supersport riders. Both the Saturday and Sunday races were plagued by rain and each one ended up more a game of survival than a competition. In fact, almost half the field did not finish on Saturday.
Jaret Nassaney (59). Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy Altus Motorsports.
Jaret Nassaney started Race 1 from 11th and managed to persevere to finish in 13th. In Race 2, he started 10th and, after battling for 8th, finished in the same position at 10th. Nassaney finished the season 10th overall in the Supersport class.
“On the last lap of Race 1, I lost the rear and crashed, but I picked the bike up and finished. We made some changes before Race 2. I felt better, but with a few laps to go it started to dump rain and I ended up giving up two spots to finish 10th. Overall I’m just glad to survive,” said Jaret Nassaney. “I’m pretty happy with the season. We scored points every race but one and never got a DNF. I finished the season in 10th and only a few points out of 8th. I am ready to come back next year and continue progressing.”
Kevin Olmedo (16). Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy Altus Motorsports.
Kevin Olmedo was one of the victims of the Saturday weather. He crashed before the race was red-flagged and restarted. In Race 2, he started from 4th and focused on finishing. He crossed the line in 12th. In spite of missing the first two rounds (four races), Olmedo managed to finish the season 7th overall in the class.
Junior Cup:
Hayden Bicknese came into Barber Motorsports Park with high hopes. It was the only track on the schedule that he was very familiar with and he expected to post some good results. Unfortunately, Mother Nature decided to throw a change-up and fill the weekend with torrential downpours.
Hayden Bicknese (69). Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy Altus Motorsports.
It was a rough weekend for Hayden in the rain. He started the Saturday race from 11th. While almost ⅓ of the entrants ended up crashing out, Hayden rode smart and took the checkered flag in 12th.
With the Sunday Race Start approaching, the weather turned worse. Hard consistent rain had created large areas of standing water. With little to gain and the potential for crashing and possible injury high, the team wisely decided to park the bike for Race 2. Bicknese ended his inaugural season in an impressive 12th overall.
“2021 is a wrap! For our team to win back-to-back Stock 1000 and Superbike Cup it feels amazing. This season had its challenges, but in the end, Jake Lewis is the Champion and we could not be more proud! None of this is possible without Crew Chief Eric Gray. He works many long hours to make sure the entire team is ready every weekend. His desire to push the team to be the best makes all of us champions! Thank you, Tony Pogue and David Gray for coming on midseason and making sure Jake’s bike was ready for battle. Jake Lewis, you are an amazing young man! Your competitive nature, professionalism, and being a genuinely good person brings out the best in our team.”
“Eric has always said it’s easy to make it to the 3rd or 4th Rounds, but much more difficult to complete an entire season. Thank you, Mike Castro, Sean Gager, and Mauro Deviasso for all your hard work this season. You guys came together and made our team a success.”
“Jaret, Kevin, and Hayden all had great seasons. They came in focused and ready to compete at the highest level. As a team owner, I could not ask for more,” said George Nassaney.
Altus Motorsports is already working on the team for next year. They are looking at what the mix of bikes will be between 1000s, 600s, and Junior Cup bikes. Any riders looking for a bike or even transportation for the 2022 season, reach out to George Nassaney at [email protected]
The Altus Motorsports team is supported by our great family of sponsors: Altus Motorsports, Environmental Service Solutions, Suzuki Motor Corporation, Creative Sports Concepts, Tucker Powersports, Schaefer Engineering, Hot Bodies Racing, M4 Exhausts, Vortex EK, Motion Pro, Barnett, VP Lubricants, SBS Brakes, Galfer USA, Moto-D Racing, Bonamici, Ohlins, K-Techs, RS Taichi, Arai, Law Tigers Oklahoma, Lawton Motorsports, and Altus Factory Racing.
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