In a powerful collaboration of speed and precision, TopPro Motorsports and CJKNOWS Accident & Injury Law are proud to announce a special partnership with professional motorcycle racer Kaleb De Keyrel for a one-off appearance in the Stock 1000 class at Road America for Round 3 of the MotoAmerica Championship.
This exciting collaboration brings together a top-tier racing program, a powerhouse in personal injury law, and one of the most competitive and well-respected riders in the paddock. Kaleb De Keyrel, known for his aggressive yet calculated riding style and deep experience across multiple MotoAmerica classes, will compete aboard the TopPro Motorsports-prepared BMW M 1000 RR under the banner of CJKNOWS Accident & Injury Law.
“Teaming up with TopPro and CJKNOWS for this round is an amazing opportunity,” said De Keyrel. “ Road America is a track I grew up riding and really enjoy racing. I can’t thank Top Pro Motorsports and CJ enough for this incredible opportunity. I’m ready to put on a show and fight for a good result.”
Texan Mikey Lou Sanchez Signs with AC Racing for Remainder of 2025 FIM JuniorGP European Talent Cup Season.
Young American motorcycle racer Mikey Lou Sanchez has officially joined AC Racing for the remainder of the 2025 FIM JuniorGP European Talent Cup. The promising rider from Texas will make his debut with the Italian-based team this weekend during Round 2 at the Circuito de Jerez in Spain.
“I’m excited to have this opportunity to work with this team… and hopefully I can achieve a top 10 this weekend!” Mikey said ahead of the race weekend.
Fans can follow Mikey’s progress throughout the weekend as he takes on this exciting new chapter in his racing journey.
Defending MotoGP World Champion Jorge Martin says he wants more time before deciding whether to continue as a factory Aprilia rider in 2026.
Martin was badly injured in pre-season testing and on his comeback ride in Qatar suffered more injuries. As such, he has not yet completed a full Grand Prix race. His contract with Aprilia allows him to leave at the end of 2025, a clause that was included so he could “have the possibility to test the bike in real circumstances and to understand the team and its working methodology,” Martin said. Because of his injuries, Martin has not been able to do so to his satisfaction.
Therefore, faced with a deadline to decide to leave or stay in 2026, Martin exercised the option to leave. But it doesn’t necessarily mean he will leave Aprilia. Aprilia says it wants Martin to stay, and Martin says he wants Aprilia to extend the deadline for him to make a decision, giving both sides “a second chance” before making a final determination for 2026.
Factory Aprilia MotoGP rider Marco Bezzecchi won the Grand Prix race at Silverstone last weekend, and Aprilia said the victory sent a message to Martin, saying that the bike was capable of winning and that they were waiting for him to come back.
Jorge Martin in the cold pit lane prior to the Barcelona MotoGP test. Photo by Michael Gougis.
Martin’s statement is as follows, according to MotoGP.com:
Hello everyone,
I would like to share with all the fans, media and people who follow my career a clear explanation about my situation with Aprilia.
At no time have I ever breached the contract. When we signed it, I agreed with Aprilia that, if certain circumstances were not met, I reserved the right to decide my future for 2026. This was an essential condition for me to accept the contract proposal they offered me at that time.
When I made the decision to change manufacturers last year, one of my premises was to have the possibility to test the bike in real circumstances and to understand the team and its working methodology. In this way I could feel comfortable signing for two years instead of one, and so we included that condition.
Faced with the situation of having to make a decision on a date that is established by contract, I have decided to exercise my right to release myself for the 2026 season. I have always done so respectfully, clearly and with the sole intention of taking control of my future as a professional athlete.
Unfortunately, the circumstances that have occurred as a result of the crashes, although it is true that they do not affect what we agreed, have conditioned this phase. That is why I have always been open to dialogue with Aprilia to extend this period to a certain number of Grand Prix after my return to competition. The aim is that both parties can give each other a second chance and feel comfortable before making a decision for 2026.
I have always been honest with Aprilia, I have always valued the bike, the team and the effort of all the people who are part of the project. The only thing I ask is that my will and the spirit of what we agreed at the time with Aprilia be respected.
There is no conflict or reproach. I just want to be able to look ahead with clarity, after very difficult times and a very serious injury, and to continue to give the best of myself on and off the track.
SUZUKI LAUNCHES DR-Z “TAKE IT TO THE STREETS” DEMO EVENT SERIES
First Opportunity to Ride the All-new DR-Z4SM
Suzuki Motor USA, LLC (Suzuki) is pleased to announce the start of an exclusive DR-Z “Take it to the Streets” Demo Event series.
Suzuki is providing a unique opportunity for riders to be among the first to ride the all-new 2025 DR-Z4SM. Stopping at select dealers throughout the country, the DR-Z “Take it to the Streets” Event allows motorcycle enthusiasts their first hands-on opportunity to ride and experience the highly anticipated 2025 DR-Z4SM before it arrives in dealerships.
These events will continuously be held over the next few months in various locations across the country. Be sure to ask your local Suzuki dealer about the event and check our website for updates on where and when upcoming events will take place. New dates and locations are being added weekly.
DR-Z “Take it to the Streets” Demo Events feature:
*Early Test Ride Opportunity: Be one of the first to experience the power and precision of these all-new models before they hit showroom floors.
*Experience New DR-Z Technology Firsthand: Feel how the new updates transform the street-legal SuperMoto riding performance.
*Learn from the Experts: Suzuki staff will review the features and benefits of these exciting new models.
A couple of riders having fun on 2025 DR-Z4SM models on a closed course.
2015 DR-Z4SM Overview
Building on Suzuki’s industry leading SuperMoto, the all-new 2025 DR-Z4SM is here. This motorcycle redefines SuperMoto performance, built for riders who crave agility and excitement on the street and track.
An all-new twin-spar steel frame and aluminum subframe provide a lightweight, high-performance chassis. The redesigned 398cc engine, featuring electronic fuel injection and 42mm Ride-by-Wire throttle body delivers smooth, responsive power.
Right-side view of a 2025 Suzuki DR-Z4SM.
Suzuki’s Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.) puts advanced features at your fingertips. With three-level Suzuki Drive Mode Selector (SDMS) and a four-mode Traction Control System, you can tailor the bike’s performance to match your riding style and conditions. Switchable ABS provides added functionality, whether you’re navigating city streets or carving up a racetrack.
Left-side view of a 2025 Suzuki DR-Z4SM.
The DR-Z4SM’s 17-inch wide-spoke wheels are designed to allow an aggressive SuperMoto feel that this motorcycle can achieve. Fully adjustable KYB suspension and new Dunlop SPORTMAX Q5A tires ensure optimal handling and grip. Sleek LED lighting, vibrant bodywork, and ergonomic touches complete the motorcycle, making the DR-Z4SM the ultimate package.
2015 DR-Z4SM Key Features
New twin-spar steel frame and aluminum sub-frame give exceptional torsional rigidity and greatly enhance the DR-Z4SM’s handling characteristics.
New piston design helps achieve smoother engine operation while new radiator with larger fan diameter improves cooling.
New long-travel, adjustable KYB inverted front fork and fully adjustable KYB rear suspension are easy to tune for the conditions while new, Dunlop SPORTMAX Q5A sportbike tires (17 in. front and rear) provide optimum traction both on road and on track.
A 3/4-front, right-side look at the 2025 Suzuki DR-Z4SM.
Now equipped with Electronic Fuel Injection, the DR-Z4SM’s engine is fed through an electronically controlled (Ride-by-Wire) throttle body with a 42 mm bore and a 10-hole injector that significantly improves engine response, idle speed control and peak power output.
Fully revised 398cc single-cylinder four-valve DOHC engine delivers a smooth, controllable spread of torque from low RPM up through peak power. New higher-lift camshafts with reduced overlap press upon new titanium intake valves.
All of the DR-Z4SM’s lighting is low-draw LED type, including the new bifunction LED headlight that incorporates both the high- and low-beam functions into one, bright projector module.
New LCD instrument panel features a straightforward, legible display that supplies critical real-time operating information and allows easy adjustments to S.I.R.S setting changes. Popular features like twin trip meters are joined by a new fuel level indicator.
New Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.) suite includes the three-mode Suzuki Drive Mode Selector (SDMS), four-mode Suzuki Traction Control System* (STCS) that includes a G mode for loose surfaces, the ABS** (Antilock Brake System) with switchable ABS Rear OFF mode, and the Suzuki Easy Start system that automatically starts the engine with a momentary press of a button.
New tapered aluminum handlebars with half-waffle grips, wide rider pegs with removable, vibration-damping rubber inserts, and a new seat with shape and foam optimized for comfort. The new compact, light-weight fuel tank retains the 2.3 US gal. (8.7 L) capacity.
New air cleaner box and inlet tube designed to improve intake air flow and generate sharp throttle response with powerful low-speed torque. The left side body cover has a quick-release fastener, and swings open like a door, retaining the popular, easy access to the air filter element.
Minimalistic and sleek, styling visually confirms that the DR-Z4SM is an extremely capable on-track motorcycle. Riders can choose the Solid Special White No. 2 bodywork or Sky Gray plastics that blend well with the many blacked-out chassis components.
New slim exhaust system has large-diameter, stainless steel head- and mid-pipes, plus a double wall silencer design to reduce heat transfer to the rider or passenger.
2025 DR-Z4SM Engine Features
The DR-Z4SM is powered by a thoroughly updated 398cc single-cylinder four-valve DOHC engine that delivers a smooth, controllable spread of torque from low RPM up through peak power. The redesigned cylinder head has optimized shapes for the intake port, intake valve boundary, and a smooth, flat combustion chamber that produces better combustion to provide consistent power under low loads with strong power output under heavier loads. The DOHC cylinder head contains a pair of lightweight titanium intake valves and a pair of hollow, sodium filled exhaust valves that help maximize combustion efficiency and performance.
Every aspect of the new air cleaner box design was studied and updated, including its capacity and outlet shape, to improve intake air flow. The length of the inlet tube and the diameter of its mouth were designed to achieve balance between intake air sound and the engine’s power delivery to generate sharp throttle response and powerful low-speed torque. The left side body cover has a quick-release fastener, and swings open like a door, retaining the popular, easy access to the air filter element.
New camshaft profiles have increased intake lift and optimized valve overlap, contributing to both improved engine performance and world-wide emissions compliance. The valve spring rates have been increased to match the increased intake valve lift. Like a GSX-R, the DR-Z4SM’s shim-under-bucket valve adjustment system has long service intervals.
Now equipped with Electronic Fuel Injection, the engine is fed through an electronically controlled throttle body with a 42 mm bore and a 10-hole injector. This system provides easier starts, especially when the engine is cold, and continually monitors throttle position/engine speed and adjusts ignition timing to maintain efficient combustion. By achieving an ideal fuel-air ratio, the engine provides good response as the rider opens the throttle.
The DR-Z4SM cylinder head features Suzuki’s Dual Spark Technology, utilizing two iridium spark plugs, for heightened spark strength and longevity. This also improves combustion efficiency at low engine speeds, smoother power delivery, easier engine start-up, and a more consistent idle.
Optimization of the new piston’s ovality and skirt shape has achieved both a reduction in mechanical loss and smoother, quieter engine operation. The Suzuki Composite Electrochemical Materials (SCEM) cylinder is durable and lightweight and provides superior heat transfer.
The combination of new piston and crankcase designs reduces mechanical loss by up to 20%. This contributes to smoother engine operation, increased power output right up to the rev limit, and improved fuel economy.
Carried over from the DR-Z400SM to the DR-Z4SM is the dry sump lubrication system, which contributes to a compact engine design that provides ample ground clearance and a low center of gravity.
A 2025 Suzuki DR-Z4SM seen on a public road.
This new Ride-by-Wire throttle body system helps achieve a good balance between idle speed control and peak power output, while also contributing to emission standards compliance.
Simple electric starting via a lightweight starter motor with an automatic mechanical decompression system. The magneto (stator and rotor) have been redesigned to increase power generation efficiency.
The new exhaust system features a double-wall silencer design that helps protect the rider’s legs from extreme heat, also contributing to the DR-Z4SM’s slim body profile. The use of a PAIR (air supply) system to the exhaust helps the motorcycle achieve emissions compliance without affecting performance.
A larger, thermostatically controlled cooling fan mounted to the left radiator helps maintain a consistent operating temperature.
2025 DR-Z4SM Transmission Features
The revised, compact, five-speed transmission utilizes a cable-operated clutch with a separate outer cover for simplified clutch maintenance.
Most of the gears and shafts in the transmission were updated to reduce oil windage (drag) and to increase strength.
The transmission’s output is managed by the Suzuki Clutch Assist System (SCAS). This system works like a slipper clutch by allowing a small amount of clutch slip under deceleration for smoother downshifts. The SCAS also works as an assist clutch, increasing plate pressure under acceleration, but always keeps the clutch lever’s pull light and precise. This large-diameter, wet, multi-plate clutch uses a precise cable-activated release, providing the rider with a light pull and a superb friction-point feel.
Riding on durable steel sprockets, a strong O-ring style drive chain contains lubrication pre-packed between the pins and rollers for quiet, reliable operation.
2025 DR-Z4SM Chassis Features
Supplied by KYB, the new long stroke, inverted cartridge-style fork has adjustable compression and rebound damping force with 10.2 in. (260 mm) of travel for smooth performance on all types of on road and on track surfaces. The new frame and fork also update the fork rake and trail specifications for a balance of nimble handling and straight-line performance. The new, rear KYB shock absorber has 10.9 in. (277 mm) of rear wheel travel with spring preload plus both compression and rebound damping force adjustments, and connects to a new, lightweight aluminum swingarm through a progressive linkage system.
The new frame and sub-frame provide a similar, ergonomically-sound riding position as the outgoing DR-Z400SM. To better suit on track riding, the new large diameter tapered aluminum handlebar’s grip position is set in the same height as the DR-Z400SM but are 0.78 in. (20 mm) farther from the rider, while the new, wider rider’s pegs are set at the same height but are 0.70 in. (18 mm) farther back. The DR-Z400SM’s seat height of 35.0 in. (890 mm) is retained on the DR-Z4SM.
The DR-Z4SM’s new bodywork features Suzuki Solid Special White No. 2 or Sky Gray bodywork with modern graphics. The bodywork smoothly fits together, creating a “linear connection” from front to rear, through a bold horizontal line the flows from the front fender through to the tail. The aggressive styling also conveys the impression that the DR-Z4SM is a serious on track performer.
The large new diameter tapered aluminum handlebars are light, strong and flexible to help damp vibration. Handlebar grips are a half-waffle design to improve rider comfort and control. Wider footpegs, with removable vibration damping rubber inserts, provide good grip to the rider’s boots when standing or sitting.
The redesigned trim frame combines cast components with thin chrome-moly steel tubes for exceptional torsional rigidity with minimal weight. It is formed from steel pipe that makes it rigid, strong, and supple to handle rough surfaces and improve rider comfort.
The aluminum under cover is standard equipment that helps protect the bottom of the engine. Suzuki Genuine Accessories offers a larger, thick aluminum skid plate that offers additional protection for the bottom of the engine and frame.
Spoke-style 17-inch front and rear wheels with blacked-out aluminum rims are fitted with Dunlop SPORTMAX Q5A sportbike tires. Built to perform optimally, whether negotiating the streets or riding on track.
New to a Suzuki SuperMoto model, Dunlop SPORTMAX Q5A sportbike tires feature a silica compound, which provides both dry and wet grip, as well as excellent reinforcement for longer life.
The front wheel uses a dual piston, sliding pin, axially mounted caliper that grasps a 310 mm stainless steel brake rotor. The rear wheel uses an axially mounted, single piston caliper with a 240 mm brake rotor that is also constructed of stainless steel for good heat dissipation and durability.
The fuel tank is a new, flush lightweight design where the side covers (radiator shrouds) cover both sides (fuel capacity is 2.3 US gal. (8.7 L)).
2025 DR-Z4SM Electrical & Electronic Features
Delivering a sense of control and comfort, Suzuki Drive Mode Selector (SDMS) provides the DR-Z4SM rider with a choice of three different engine power output characteristics (modes). Working in concert with the Traction Control System*, SDMS permits peak power in each mode while changing the nature of the power delivery.
Suzuki Traction Control System (STCS) continuously monitors front and rear wheel speeds, throttle opening, engine speed, and transmission gear. It quickly reduces engine output when it detects wheel spin by retarding the ignition timing and limiting the throttle opening. The rider can select one of four modes (1, 2, G, and OFF).
All of the DR-Z4SM’s lighting is new, low-draw LED type, including the turn signals (white lenses with amber illumination), the taillight, and license plate illumination light. The new bifunction LED headlight is a unique design that incorporates both the high- and low-beam functions into one, bright projector module
The DR-Z4SM has a newly designed LCD instrument panel that is light and compact, with a straightforward, legible display. This panel not only supplies critical real-time operating status information, but also keeps the rider aware of the settings for the bike’s respective systems.
The DR-Z4SM is equipped with a compact, yet effective Bosch-supplied ABS** control that offers Rear ABS** OFF mode, which switches off just the rear wheel ABS**.
Suzuki Easy Start system allows the rider to easily start the engine with a single, momentary press of the starter button.
2025 DR-Z4SM Additional Features
Suzuki Genuine Accessories provide riders a fun and practical way to customize and personalize their DR-Z4SM. These accessories include a handlebar-mounted DC power socket, a low-profile seat, an aluminum skid plate, cargo rack, handguard set (knuckle covers), front and rear brake disc guards, and more.
Suzuki 12-month limited warranty. Longer coverage periods with other benefits are available through Suzuki Extended Protection (SEP).
Roadracing World started this exclusive special feature recognizing the most promising young road racers as an answer to pessimists who claimed America had no new, up-and-coming young racers. This edition of the Roadracing World Young Gun Awards marks the 29th consecutive year of showcasing an abundance of new talent.
Roadracing World Young Guns have won:
FIM MotoGP and FIM Superbike races and World Championships;
MotoAmerica and AMA Pro races and Championships, including 14 AMA Pro Superbike Championships;
A KTM RC Cup World Final race;
WERA National Endurance Championships and WERA National Challenge Championships; ASRA/Formula USA Grand National and CCS National Championships;
AMA Road Racing Grand Championships and Horizon Awards;
USGPRU National Championships;
Many regional and local titles.
The competition has continually become more intense as more – and younger—racers with higher levels of accomplishment are nominated, and the level of achievement required to make the grade keeps getting tougher.
We’ve spent the last several months accepting nominations and evaluating road racers between the ages of 10 and 18 (as of the start of the 2025 season) who have, at a minimum, won Expert-level road races and/or Championships or had outstanding results as an Amateur/Novice. Most of the riders included here have done far more than the minimum.
The young riders recognized here are the most promising young road racers in North America, based on the 2024 season. All have earned the title of Roadracing World Young Gun.
We will feature one Young Gun per day, presenting them in alphabetical order.
Eli Banish. Photo courtesy Tim Banish.
Eli Banish
Age: 16.
Current home: Burlington, Kentucky (currently living in Valencia, Spain).
Current height/weight: 6’1”/145 pounds.
Current school grade level: 10th grade.
Began riding at age: 4 years.
First road race: 2017, Circleville, Ohio, Ohio Mini Road Racing League, Kids50, 4th Place.
Current racebike: TBA.
Current tuners/mechanics: Mark Junge.
Primary race series: TBA.
Sponsors: Fastline Track Days, Best Western Resorts & Hotels, KMA Racing, POP Shadow Decals & Wraps, Vortex Racing, 35 Motorsports, April Cody Real Estate.
Recent racing accomplishments: 2024 season; finished tied for 24th in British Talent Cup Championship (best race result was 7th at Snetterton), finished in top-10 in wild card appearance in RFME ESBK Supersport Next Gen at Valencia; 2023 season, finished 17th in British Talent Cup Championship (best race result was 7th at Thruxton); 2022 season, tied for 29th in British Talent Cup Championship (best race finish was 12th), won WERA Sportsman Clubman National Championship, won 2 WERA North Central Regional Championships (won 18 WERA races); 2021 season, won AMA Moto3 Expert Grand Championship, took 2nd in Formula Two WERA National Challenge Series Championship, won eight WERA Sportsman Regional Class Championships (won 26 WERA races); 2020 season, won D Superbike Novice WERA Sportsman North Central Championship (won six WERA races); 2019 season, named AMA Youth Road Racer of the Year, won five WERA Sportsman Regional Championships in Novice classes (won 13 WERA races).
2025 racing goal: Find a ride in MotoAmerica Supersport Championship.
Racing career goal: Compete in the MotoGP World Championship.
Racing hero: Nicky Hayden.
Favorite track: Road Atlanta.
Favorite hobbies: Cooking, cycling.
If I wasn’t racing I would be…: Making cooking videos for YouTube.
…..
Some of the riders who have graduated from Young Guns and gone on to racing success in National or International series include:
2017 MotoAmerica Superstock 600 Champion Jason Aguilar (R.I.P.);
2013 AMA Pro SuperSport East Champion, 2022 MotoAmerica Stock 1000 Champion, and MotoAmerica Superbike podium finisher Corey Alexander;
AMA Pro Daytona SportBike race winner Tommy Aquino (R.I.P.);
2008 Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup Champion, two-time MotoAmerica Supersport Champion, and multi-time MotoAmerica Superbike race winner J.D. Beach;
Five-time MotoAmerica Superbike Champion and Moto2 World Championship point scorer Cameron Beaubier;
Former Canadian Sport Bike Champion Tomas Casas;
Three-time Canadian Sport Bike Champion and 2014 Canadian Superbike Champion Jodi Christie;
FIM JuniorGP World Championship point scorer and MotoAmerica podium finisher TorinCollins;
Former AMA Pro SuperSport East Champion and MotoAmerica Superstock 1000 race winner Josh Day;
2011 Daytona 200 winner Jason DiSalvo;
2014 AMA Pro SuperSport Championship runner-up and current MotoAmerica team owner Dustin Dominguez;
2018 MotoAmerica Junior Cup Champion, 2019 MotoAmerica Twins Cup Champion, and 2021 Canadian Superbike Champion Alex Dumas;
Four-time Pikes Peak International Hill Climb race winner and former motorcycle track record holder Carlin Dunne (R.I.P.);
Canadian Superbike race winner Bodhi Edie;
Two-time AMA Pro Daytona SportBike Champion, two-time AMA Pro XR1200/Harley- Davidson Champion and four-time Daytona 200 winner Danny Eslick;
2019 MotoAmerica Supersport Champion and multi-time MotoAmerica Superbike race winner Bobby Fong;
2010 Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup Champion, 2014 AMA Pro Daytona SportBike Champion, 2015 MotoAmerica AMA/FIM North America Superstock 1000 Champion, and three-time MotoAmerica Superbike Champion Jake Gagne;
Two-time MotoAmerica Supersport Champion and World Superbike podium finisher GarrettGerloff;
2017 MotoAmerica Superstock 600 Championship runner-up Michael Gilbert;
2014 AMA Pro SuperSport Champion, 2023and 2024 MotoAmerica Stock 1000 Champion, and 2023 MotoAmerica King Of The Baggers Champion Hayden Gillim;
2002 AMA Superbike Champion and 2006 FIM MotoGP World Champion Nicky Hayden (R.I.P.);
2007 AMA Pro 600cc Supersport Champion, 2014 AMA Pro Superbike Championship runner- up, and 2017 MotoAmerica Superbike Championship runner-up Roger Hayden;
Eight-time AMA Pro Superbike race winner and two-time AMA Supersport Champion TommyHayden;
2013 AMA Pro Superbike Champion, 2016 MotoAmerica Superstock 1000 Champion, and 2022 MotoAmerica Supersport Champion, 2024 MotoAmerica Superbike Champion, and four-time Daytona 200 winner Josh Herrin;
2011 British Superbike Championship runner-up and former MotoGP and World Superbike regular John Hopkins;
2015 Supersport World Championship runner-up, 2019 and 2024 MotoAmerica Supersport Championship runner-up, and MotoAmerica Superbike race winner Patrick “P.J.” Jacobsen;
2021 MotoAmerica Supersport Champion, Moto2 World Championship point scorer, MotoAmerica Superbike race winner Sean Dylan Kelly;
Canadian Superbike race winner Kevin Lacombe;
Two-time MotoAmerica Junior Cup Champion, 2020 MotoAmerica Twins Cup Champion, 2022 MotoAmerica Supersport Championship runner-up, MotoAmerica King Of The Baggers race winner Rocco Landers;
Two-time MotoAmerica Stock 1000 Champion Andrew Lee;
2021 MotoAmerica Stock 1000 and Superbike Cup Champion Jake Lewis;
MotoAmerica Supersport race winner Sam Lochoff;
MotoAmerica Superstock 600 race winner Nick McFadden;
AMA Pro SuperSport race winner and MotoAmerica Supersport race winner Stefano Mesa;
Elena Myers, the first and only woman to win AMA Pro Supersport races;
AMA Pro XR1200 race winner, multi-time Loudon Classic winner, and two-time BRL Champion Shane Narbonne;
2012 Canadian Superbike Championship runner-up Andrew Nelson;
2016 MotoAmerica KTM RC Cup Champion, 2019 British Motostar (Moto3) Champion, MotoAmerica Supersport podium finisher, and two-time Daytona 200 winner Brandon Paasch;
2012 Daytona 200 winner and 2010 AMA Pro Supersport West Champion Joey Pascarella;
AMA Pro and Canadian National race winner and multi-time N2/WERA National Endurance Champion Chris Peris;
Two-time AMA Pro SuperSport National Champion, British Supersport podium finisher, 2020 AFT Production Twins Champion, and 2023 MotoAmerica King Of The Baggers Championship runner-up James Rispoli;
2015 MotoAmerica Superstock 600 Champion, MotoAmerica Supersport race winner, and Moto2 World Championship race winner Joe Roberts;
2022 MotoAmerica Junior Cup Championship runner-up and 2023 MotoAmerica Twins Cup Championship runner-up Gus Rodio;
2021 MotoAmerica Junior Cup Champion and multi-time MotoAmerica Supersport race winner Tyler Scott;
Former Red Bull AMA U.S. Rookies Cup Champion and former FIM Moto2 European Championship competitor Benny Solis, Jr.;
Three-time AMA Pro Superbike Champion, 2009 Superbike World Champion, MotoGP race winner, and AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famer Ben Spies;
FIM JuniorGP Moto2 European Championship regular Max Toth;
Multi-time AMA Pro race winner and four-time overall WERA National Endurance Champion Chris Ulrich;
MotoAmerica Supersport podium finisher, former World Superbike competitor, and 2024 MotoAmerica Stock 1000 Championship runner-up Jayson Uribe;
MotoAmerica Junior Cup race winner and current Supersport regular Max Van;
2017 MotoAmerica KTM RC Cup Championship runner-up, 2018 MotoAmerica Junior Cup Championship runner-up, and MotoAmerica Supersport podium finisher Cory Ventura;
Canadian Superbike race winner Alex Welsh;
Former AMA Pro Superbike Rookie of the Year, Chinese Superbike Championship race winner; MotoAmerica Supersport podium finisher, and 2024 MotoAmerica Super Hooligan Champion Cory West;
MotoAmerica Junior Cup race winner and 2024 MotoAmerica Superbike Cup Champion Ashton Yates;
Two-time AMA Pro Superbike Championship runner-up Blake Young.
Kensei Matsudaira and Anthony Lupo won the Ohvale GP 190 class races at Round Three of the FIM Mini Cup series at Apex Racing Center in Perris, California. Matsudaira won the opening Sprint race, while Lupo took the win in the first full race of the weekend. Matsudaira struck back and took the victory in Race Two. (Scroll down for results.)
MiniCup GP190 Sprint Race Podium at Apex last weekend, with winner Kensei Matsudaira flanked by second-place Jase Dill (left) and third-place Anthony Lupo. Photo by Karen E. Ott.
Jase Dill won all three of the Ohvale GP 160 races, and Zaal Farhand swept the Ohvale GP 110 races.
The MiniCup GP 160 Sprint race, Race One and Race Two podiums were identical, with Jase Dill (center) winning, Zaal Farhand (left) finishing second, and Maverick Johnson finishing third. Photo by Karen E. Ott.All three Mini Cup GP 110 podiums were the same, with Zaal Farhand winning, Lambert Su taking second, and Mason McIntire finishing third. Photo by Karen E. Ott.Mini Cup GP 110 winner Zaal Farhand in action at Apex. Photo by Karen E. Ott.Mini Cup Stock 50 Sprint Race winner Marcus Su. Photo by Karen E. Ott.Luke Shen won all three Mini Cup Stock 110 races at Apex. Photo by Karen E. Ott.Tony Lupo (12) leads a Mini Cup GP 190 race at Apex. Photo by Karen E. Ott.
The sun has set on the second day of testing at Misano World Circuit “Marco Simoncelli”, Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) topped Day 2, setting the table for an epic showdown in Ducati’s back yard at the upcoming Pirelli Emilia-Romagna Round. Toprak Razgatlioglu (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) and his team look to have found some answers with their setup, but his work will be cut out for him at the upcoming race weekend. In P3 behind them, Axel Bassani (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team) continued his good run of form as the Italian sets out for more podiums in 2025.
Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) didn’t participate in the Test’s Day 1, the current Championship leader, however, needed no time to leap to the top of the timesheet. His 1’32.093s time propelling him to P1 in FP4. had it happened during an official round, his time would have shattered Razgatlioglu’s 2024 track record by more than a quarter of a second. Sam Lowes (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team) finished in P4 after his P5 result on Day 1. His pace seems to be improving as his 1’32.820s lap was faster than his Day 1 fastest lap by around seven tenths of a second. Italian rookie Yari Montella (Barni Spark Racing Team) was the second-fastest Ducati for stretches of the day; he went on to finish in P6 with his 1’32.962s lap. Montella’s teammate Danilo Petrucci was not as quick as the rookie for the second day in a row, finishing P9 on his fastest lap of 1’33.153s. Andrea Iannone (Team Pata Go Eleven) continues to fight through his two broken toes, suffered just 11 days ago, and looks to have made some progress with his bike, even despite that. ‘The Maniac’ finished P12 with a time of 1’33.364s. Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) finished the day in P13 and a time of 1’33.424s after his Day 1 P4. Ryan Vickers (Motocorsa Racing) closed out Misano’s Testing with a fastest lap of 1’33.816s to earn P16. Ducati test rider Michele Pirro was on track as well, testing Ducati’s new Panigale V4 R, he collected a total of 25 laps worth of data, the fastest of them a 1’33.956s.
Razgatlioglu (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) and Bulega traded places for P1 and P2 throughout the session, with minutes left, Bulega pipped Toprak by just 0.04s in the afternoon’s FP4, relegating him to P2 despite his 1’32.133s time fast enough to have broken his track record last year. The defending Champion will need to find a way to outpace Bulega at Misano if he wants to breathe more life into the Championship Race. Michael van der Mark (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) finished the day in P14, while his pace was not a huge improvement over his recent results, both the Dutchman and ‘El Turco’ will benefit from the data they collected en masse across both days, on Day 2 alone, the pair and the other two test riders- Markus Reiterberger and Sylvain Guintoli- cumulatively collected 190 laps, the most of any team.
Axel Bassani (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team) was the faster of the Bimota pair on Wednesday, finishing P3 thanks to his 1’32.798s effort. Finishing in P11, Alex Lowes’ (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team) fastest lap came in FP4 when he put down a 1’33.265s lap.
Remy Gardner (GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) was the fastest Yamaha at Day 2 of the Misano Test, taking fifth place from his 1’32.890s lap. Jonathan Rea (Pata Maxus Yamaha) was the second fastest Yamaha, narrowly missing the 1’32 mark in eighth place from his 1’33.019s lap. Andrea Locatelli (Pata Maxus Yamaha)’s 1’33.159s lap saw him place P10. In P18 from his 1’34.428s lap, Stefano Manzi (Yamaha Test Team) finished just ahead of Dominique Aegerter (GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) in P19. The Italian’s 1’34.428s lap was just 0.004s faster than the Swiss rider’s 1’34.432s time.
Iker Lecuona (Honda HRC) wasn’t quite fast enough to replicate his Day 1 P3, his P7 on pace for his recent form. The consistency of the Spaniard, however, could boost the confidence of the Honda factory team as he earned his P7 on a 1’33.017s lap. With his teammate Xavi Vierge (Honda HRC) still out with his foot injury, Tarran Mackenzie (PETRONAS MIE Honda Racing Team) was the only other permanent grid rider at the test for Honda, finishing 1’35.413s. Test riders Tommy Bridewell and Ivo Lopes finished in 23rd and 24th, running a total of 46 laps.
Garrett Gerloff (Kawasaki WorldSBK Team) followed up on his Day 1 P9 with a Day 2 P15. The Texan has shown glimpses of his pace from prior seasons, but consistent form with his new Kawasaki team has eluded him.
Philipp Oettl (Feel Racing WorldSSP Team) led the WorldSSP grid at Misano’s Day 2, his 1’37.595s hot lap leading Valentin Debise (Renzi Corse) at 1’37.640s and Jeremy Alcoba (Kawasaki WorldSSP Team) at 1’37.716s.
On Wednesday, May 28, Luca Marini suffered a heavy fall while testing for the Suzuka 8-Hour and will remain in Japan for observation and recovery.
After the British GP, Luca Marini travelled to the Suzuka Circuit for a first test on the CBR1000RR-R SP. Having completed a successful first day, the Italian began the second day of his program but crashed heavily. Suffering from a dislocated left hip, damage to the ligaments in his left knee, fractures in the sternum and left collarbone, and a right-sided pneumothorax, Marini was transferred to local hospital and stabilised.
Marini will remain under observation in Japan until he is deemed fit to travel.
Honda HRC and the Honda HRC Castrol team will support Marini fully in his recovery.
Talent Cup Will Race For The First Time At “America’s National Park Of Speed” As Road America Awaits Superbike And Five Additional Classes.
The Parts Unlimited Talent Cup By Motul class is back on track this coming weekend at Road America in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin, after a 57-day hiatus since MotoAmerica’s youngest riders threw a leg over their Krämer APX-350 MAs in anger at Barber Motorsports Park.
While the calendar has changed, what hasn’t changed is the fact that, after two rounds and four races, things are tight at the top. Well, maybe not right at the top.
Warhorse Ducati/American Racing’s Alessandro Di Mario heads to Wisconsin with a 21-point lead in the championship standings. The defending MotoAmerica Twins Cup Champion has been on the podium in all four races with two wins, a second and a third.
However, Di Mario has proven to be fallible as he was beaten by CTR/D&D Cycles’ Bodie Paige in race two at Circuit of The Americas and by Tytlers Cycle Racing’s Hank Vossberg in race two at Barber Motorsports Park.
Still, when he doesn’t have the pace to win, Di Mario has shown his experience by taking what he can get. And that has treated him well thus far as he leads Yamaha BLU CRU Estenson Racing’s Sam Drane, 86-65, with the 14-year-old Aussie showing grit with three podium finishes in the four races.
The battle for third is tight with Vossberg and Jones Honda’s Julian Correa tied, just 11 points behind Drane and only a single point ahead of Paige.
MP13 Racing’s Ella Dreher has scored good points in all four races, and she’s sixth in the title chase, 10 points clear of a tie between Envy Powered by Warhorse’s Derek Sanchez and Royalty Racing’s Carson King.
Mission King Of The Baggers – So Far, It’s All Wyman
The all-time winningest racer in Mission King Of The Baggers history is also the winningest racer in the early days of the new season. That man is 21-time Mission King Of The Baggers race winner, Kyle Wyman.
Wyman has been nearly perfect with three wins out of four starts on his Harley-Davidson x Dynojet Factory Racing Road Glide. The race he didn’t win was a wet race one at Road Atlanta, where class rookie Loris Baz snatched victory from Wyman on the final lap. The Frenchman’s victory vaulted him to second in the championship just four races into his King Of The Baggers career.
Another rookie, not only the class but also to the MotoAmerica series, is Brit Bradley Smith. Wyman’s Harley-Davidson x Dynojet Factory Racing teammate was sixth and third in the two races at Road Atlanta, and that puts him third in the championship – nine behind Baz and 43 behind the hot-starting Wyman.
Where art thou defending Mission King Of The Baggers Champion Troy Herfoss? The Australian is fourth in the championship with his season taking a big hit in race two at Road Atlanta when a mechanical failure knocked him and his S&S/Indian Motorcycle Challenger out of the race. But this is Baggers racing and anything can happen, so Herfoss will be looking for nothing but wins as the series heads to America’s Dairyland.
Herfoss’s teammate Tyler O’Hara, who was third in both races at Road America last year, is tied for fifth in the title chase with RevZilla/Motul/Vance & Hines Harley-Davidson’s Hayden Gillim.
Motovation Supersport – Jacobsen Vs. Scholtz
The two protagonists from last year’s Motovation Supersport Championship are protagonists again in 2025. Those two are defending series champion Mathew Scholtz and 2024 championship runner-up PJ Jacobsen.
But after four races, the order has been flipped with Jacobsen at the top of the standings over Scholtz by just eight points. Strack Racing’s Scholtz has two wins to Jacobsen’s one, but Jacobsen and his Rahal Ducati Moto w/XPEL Panigale V2 have been on the podium in every race. And therein lies the difference.
But it’s early days, and the rest of the Supersport gang can’t be counted out of mixing it up with the two at the top. The rest are being led by Scholtz’s teammate Blake Davis with his season bookended so far by two third-place finishes. He’s 32 points behind Jacobsen and just four points ahead of Vision Wheel M4 ECSTAR Suzuki’s Tyler Scott. Scott has one podium finish to show from the four races.
Altus Motorsports’ Jake Lewis is fifth in the standings as the series heads to Road America with the lanky Kentuckian’s best finish being an impressive second behind Jacobsen in race one at Road Atlanta.
Lewis is just a single point ahead of BPR Racing Yamaha’s Josh Hayes, with the five-time AMA Superbike Champion tasting victory in horrendous conditions in race two at Barber Motorsports Park to open the season.
Rahal Ducati Moto w/XPEL’s Kayla Yaakov, Celtic/Economy Lube+Tire/Warhorse HSBK Ducati’s Cameron Petersen, Vision Wheel M4 ECSTAR Suzuki’s Max Van and ADR’s David Anthony round out the top 10 after four races.
Stock 1000 – Teammates Are Tied
The Stock 1000 season is truly in its infancy with just one round and two races run so far in 2025. What we can glean from that opening round at Road Atlanta is that the top two are going to be difficult to beat.
OrangeCat Racing teammates Jayson Uribe and Andrew Lee split wins at Road Atlanta. Lee won race one on his BMW M 1000 RR, and Uribe flipped the results in race two. They sit tied atop the standings with 45 points apiece.
That puts them 13 points ahead of Jones Honda’s Ashton Yates, the Georgian putting his Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP on the podium in both of his home races at Road Atlanta.
Real Steel Honda’s JD Beach made his Stock 1000 debut in the series opener, and he came away from it with two fourth-place finishes on his Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP. The two fourths put him fourth in the title chase, six points behind Yates and seven ahead of Edge Racing’s Jason Waters and his BMW M 1000 RR.
Royal Enfield Build.Train.Race. – Knebel On Top
So far in 2025, the Royal Enfield Build.Train.Race. series is one of brevity. They’ve only had one round at Barber Motorsports Park, and they only raced once with the second of the two races being cancelled due to storms that made a schedule change necessary. The BTR women will make up for the missing race when the series goes to Ridge Motorsports Park in July.
So, they will line up at Road America with just one race under their belts and so far, it’s Kira Knebel who sits atop the standings with her victory at Barber. Knebel is five points clear of race-one runner-up Shea MacGregor with Camille Conrad, who was on the podium in race one at Road America a year ago, in third.
Pre-Road America Notes…
PJ Jacobsen and Tyler Scott won the two Supersport races at Road America in 2024. Jacobsen topped Mathew Scholtz by just .040 of a second in race one with Jake Lewis finishing third. In race two, it was Scott by a scant .001 of a second over Scholtz, with the South African missing out on victory in both by just .041 of a second. Jacobsen was third in race two.
Troy Herfoss won the first of two Mission King Of The Baggers races in 2024 by a whopping 5.2 seconds over Kyle Wyman and Tyler O’Hara. In race two, it was Wyman taking the victory with Herfoss coming up just. .039 of a second short of sweeping the two races. O’Hara again finished third.
Mikayla Moore didn’t start race one of the two Royal Enfield Build.Train.Race. events last year after suffering bruising from a crash in a Twins Cup practice session. That left Cassie Creer to take full advantage, and she took victory over Emma Betters and Camille Conrad. Moore was back in race two, however, and she was dominant, topping Aubrey Credaroli by 23.9 seconds. Creer ended up third in race two.
Former Twins Cup Champion Kaleb De Keyrel is making a return to MotoAmerica this weekend in Stock 1000 at Road America. Photo by Phenry Photography.
In a powerful collaboration of speed and precision, TopPro Motorsports and CJKNOWS Accident & Injury Law are proud to announce a special partnership with professional motorcycle racer Kaleb De Keyrel for a one-off appearance in the Stock 1000 class at Road America for Round 3 of the MotoAmerica Championship.
This exciting collaboration brings together a top-tier racing program, a powerhouse in personal injury law, and one of the most competitive and well-respected riders in the paddock. Kaleb De Keyrel, known for his aggressive yet calculated riding style and deep experience across multiple MotoAmerica classes, will compete aboard the TopPro Motorsports-prepared BMW M 1000 RR under the banner of CJKNOWS Accident & Injury Law.
“Teaming up with TopPro and CJKNOWS for this round is an amazing opportunity,” said De Keyrel. “ Road America is a track I grew up riding and really enjoy racing. I can’t thank Top Pro Motorsports and CJ enough for this incredible opportunity. I’m ready to put on a show and fight for a good result.”
Mikey Lou Sanchez (second from left) poses with his new team, from left to right, Ricardo Rama (Team Assistant Manager), Alessandro Casinari (Team Owner) and Nico Ferreira (Sporting Manager). Photo courtesy Trinity Richardson Sanchez.
Texan Mikey Lou Sanchez Signs with AC Racing for Remainder of 2025 FIM JuniorGP European Talent Cup Season.
Young American motorcycle racer Mikey Lou Sanchez has officially joined AC Racing for the remainder of the 2025 FIM JuniorGP European Talent Cup. The promising rider from Texas will make his debut with the Italian-based team this weekend during Round 2 at the Circuito de Jerez in Spain.
“I’m excited to have this opportunity to work with this team… and hopefully I can achieve a top 10 this weekend!” Mikey said ahead of the race weekend.
Fans can follow Mikey’s progress throughout the weekend as he takes on this exciting new chapter in his racing journey.
Jorge Martin on his first ride on the Aprilia RS-GP at the 2025 test at Barcelona. Photo by Michael Gougis.
Defending MotoGP World Champion Jorge Martin says he wants more time before deciding whether to continue as a factory Aprilia rider in 2026.
Martin was badly injured in pre-season testing and on his comeback ride in Qatar suffered more injuries. As such, he has not yet completed a full Grand Prix race. His contract with Aprilia allows him to leave at the end of 2025, a clause that was included so he could “have the possibility to test the bike in real circumstances and to understand the team and its working methodology,” Martin said. Because of his injuries, Martin has not been able to do so to his satisfaction.
Therefore, faced with a deadline to decide to leave or stay in 2026, Martin exercised the option to leave. But it doesn’t necessarily mean he will leave Aprilia. Aprilia says it wants Martin to stay, and Martin says he wants Aprilia to extend the deadline for him to make a decision, giving both sides “a second chance” before making a final determination for 2026.
Factory Aprilia MotoGP rider Marco Bezzecchi won the Grand Prix race at Silverstone last weekend, and Aprilia said the victory sent a message to Martin, saying that the bike was capable of winning and that they were waiting for him to come back.
Jorge Martin in the cold pit lane prior to the Barcelona MotoGP test. Photo by Michael Gougis.
Martin’s statement is as follows, according to MotoGP.com:
Hello everyone,
I would like to share with all the fans, media and people who follow my career a clear explanation about my situation with Aprilia.
At no time have I ever breached the contract. When we signed it, I agreed with Aprilia that, if certain circumstances were not met, I reserved the right to decide my future for 2026. This was an essential condition for me to accept the contract proposal they offered me at that time.
When I made the decision to change manufacturers last year, one of my premises was to have the possibility to test the bike in real circumstances and to understand the team and its working methodology. In this way I could feel comfortable signing for two years instead of one, and so we included that condition.
Faced with the situation of having to make a decision on a date that is established by contract, I have decided to exercise my right to release myself for the 2026 season. I have always done so respectfully, clearly and with the sole intention of taking control of my future as a professional athlete.
Unfortunately, the circumstances that have occurred as a result of the crashes, although it is true that they do not affect what we agreed, have conditioned this phase. That is why I have always been open to dialogue with Aprilia to extend this period to a certain number of Grand Prix after my return to competition. The aim is that both parties can give each other a second chance and feel comfortable before making a decision for 2026.
I have always been honest with Aprilia, I have always valued the bike, the team and the effort of all the people who are part of the project. The only thing I ask is that my will and the spirit of what we agreed at the time with Aprilia be respected.
There is no conflict or reproach. I just want to be able to look ahead with clarity, after very difficult times and a very serious injury, and to continue to give the best of myself on and off the track.
A 2025 DR-Z4SM in action with a professional rider on a closed course. Suzuki is now holding demo rides at U.S. dealerships nationwide.
SUZUKI LAUNCHES DR-Z “TAKE IT TO THE STREETS” DEMO EVENT SERIES
First Opportunity to Ride the All-new DR-Z4SM
Suzuki Motor USA, LLC (Suzuki) is pleased to announce the start of an exclusive DR-Z “Take it to the Streets” Demo Event series.
Suzuki is providing a unique opportunity for riders to be among the first to ride the all-new 2025 DR-Z4SM. Stopping at select dealers throughout the country, the DR-Z “Take it to the Streets” Event allows motorcycle enthusiasts their first hands-on opportunity to ride and experience the highly anticipated 2025 DR-Z4SM before it arrives in dealerships.
These events will continuously be held over the next few months in various locations across the country. Be sure to ask your local Suzuki dealer about the event and check our website for updates on where and when upcoming events will take place. New dates and locations are being added weekly.
DR-Z “Take it to the Streets” Demo Events feature:
*Early Test Ride Opportunity: Be one of the first to experience the power and precision of these all-new models before they hit showroom floors.
*Experience New DR-Z Technology Firsthand: Feel how the new updates transform the street-legal SuperMoto riding performance.
*Learn from the Experts: Suzuki staff will review the features and benefits of these exciting new models.
A couple of riders having fun on 2025 DR-Z4SM models on a closed course.
2015 DR-Z4SM Overview
Building on Suzuki’s industry leading SuperMoto, the all-new 2025 DR-Z4SM is here. This motorcycle redefines SuperMoto performance, built for riders who crave agility and excitement on the street and track.
An all-new twin-spar steel frame and aluminum subframe provide a lightweight, high-performance chassis. The redesigned 398cc engine, featuring electronic fuel injection and 42mm Ride-by-Wire throttle body delivers smooth, responsive power.
Right-side view of a 2025 Suzuki DR-Z4SM.
Suzuki’s Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.) puts advanced features at your fingertips. With three-level Suzuki Drive Mode Selector (SDMS) and a four-mode Traction Control System, you can tailor the bike’s performance to match your riding style and conditions. Switchable ABS provides added functionality, whether you’re navigating city streets or carving up a racetrack.
Left-side view of a 2025 Suzuki DR-Z4SM.
The DR-Z4SM’s 17-inch wide-spoke wheels are designed to allow an aggressive SuperMoto feel that this motorcycle can achieve. Fully adjustable KYB suspension and new Dunlop SPORTMAX Q5A tires ensure optimal handling and grip. Sleek LED lighting, vibrant bodywork, and ergonomic touches complete the motorcycle, making the DR-Z4SM the ultimate package.
2015 DR-Z4SM Key Features
New twin-spar steel frame and aluminum sub-frame give exceptional torsional rigidity and greatly enhance the DR-Z4SM’s handling characteristics.
New piston design helps achieve smoother engine operation while new radiator with larger fan diameter improves cooling.
New long-travel, adjustable KYB inverted front fork and fully adjustable KYB rear suspension are easy to tune for the conditions while new, Dunlop SPORTMAX Q5A sportbike tires (17 in. front and rear) provide optimum traction both on road and on track.
A 3/4-front, right-side look at the 2025 Suzuki DR-Z4SM.
Now equipped with Electronic Fuel Injection, the DR-Z4SM’s engine is fed through an electronically controlled (Ride-by-Wire) throttle body with a 42 mm bore and a 10-hole injector that significantly improves engine response, idle speed control and peak power output.
Fully revised 398cc single-cylinder four-valve DOHC engine delivers a smooth, controllable spread of torque from low RPM up through peak power. New higher-lift camshafts with reduced overlap press upon new titanium intake valves.
All of the DR-Z4SM’s lighting is low-draw LED type, including the new bifunction LED headlight that incorporates both the high- and low-beam functions into one, bright projector module.
New LCD instrument panel features a straightforward, legible display that supplies critical real-time operating information and allows easy adjustments to S.I.R.S setting changes. Popular features like twin trip meters are joined by a new fuel level indicator.
New Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.) suite includes the three-mode Suzuki Drive Mode Selector (SDMS), four-mode Suzuki Traction Control System* (STCS) that includes a G mode for loose surfaces, the ABS** (Antilock Brake System) with switchable ABS Rear OFF mode, and the Suzuki Easy Start system that automatically starts the engine with a momentary press of a button.
New tapered aluminum handlebars with half-waffle grips, wide rider pegs with removable, vibration-damping rubber inserts, and a new seat with shape and foam optimized for comfort. The new compact, light-weight fuel tank retains the 2.3 US gal. (8.7 L) capacity.
New air cleaner box and inlet tube designed to improve intake air flow and generate sharp throttle response with powerful low-speed torque. The left side body cover has a quick-release fastener, and swings open like a door, retaining the popular, easy access to the air filter element.
Minimalistic and sleek, styling visually confirms that the DR-Z4SM is an extremely capable on-track motorcycle. Riders can choose the Solid Special White No. 2 bodywork or Sky Gray plastics that blend well with the many blacked-out chassis components.
New slim exhaust system has large-diameter, stainless steel head- and mid-pipes, plus a double wall silencer design to reduce heat transfer to the rider or passenger.
2025 DR-Z4SM Engine Features
The DR-Z4SM is powered by a thoroughly updated 398cc single-cylinder four-valve DOHC engine that delivers a smooth, controllable spread of torque from low RPM up through peak power. The redesigned cylinder head has optimized shapes for the intake port, intake valve boundary, and a smooth, flat combustion chamber that produces better combustion to provide consistent power under low loads with strong power output under heavier loads. The DOHC cylinder head contains a pair of lightweight titanium intake valves and a pair of hollow, sodium filled exhaust valves that help maximize combustion efficiency and performance.
Every aspect of the new air cleaner box design was studied and updated, including its capacity and outlet shape, to improve intake air flow. The length of the inlet tube and the diameter of its mouth were designed to achieve balance between intake air sound and the engine’s power delivery to generate sharp throttle response and powerful low-speed torque. The left side body cover has a quick-release fastener, and swings open like a door, retaining the popular, easy access to the air filter element.
New camshaft profiles have increased intake lift and optimized valve overlap, contributing to both improved engine performance and world-wide emissions compliance. The valve spring rates have been increased to match the increased intake valve lift. Like a GSX-R, the DR-Z4SM’s shim-under-bucket valve adjustment system has long service intervals.
Now equipped with Electronic Fuel Injection, the engine is fed through an electronically controlled throttle body with a 42 mm bore and a 10-hole injector. This system provides easier starts, especially when the engine is cold, and continually monitors throttle position/engine speed and adjusts ignition timing to maintain efficient combustion. By achieving an ideal fuel-air ratio, the engine provides good response as the rider opens the throttle.
The DR-Z4SM cylinder head features Suzuki’s Dual Spark Technology, utilizing two iridium spark plugs, for heightened spark strength and longevity. This also improves combustion efficiency at low engine speeds, smoother power delivery, easier engine start-up, and a more consistent idle.
Optimization of the new piston’s ovality and skirt shape has achieved both a reduction in mechanical loss and smoother, quieter engine operation. The Suzuki Composite Electrochemical Materials (SCEM) cylinder is durable and lightweight and provides superior heat transfer.
The combination of new piston and crankcase designs reduces mechanical loss by up to 20%. This contributes to smoother engine operation, increased power output right up to the rev limit, and improved fuel economy.
Carried over from the DR-Z400SM to the DR-Z4SM is the dry sump lubrication system, which contributes to a compact engine design that provides ample ground clearance and a low center of gravity.
A 2025 Suzuki DR-Z4SM seen on a public road.
This new Ride-by-Wire throttle body system helps achieve a good balance between idle speed control and peak power output, while also contributing to emission standards compliance.
Simple electric starting via a lightweight starter motor with an automatic mechanical decompression system. The magneto (stator and rotor) have been redesigned to increase power generation efficiency.
The new exhaust system features a double-wall silencer design that helps protect the rider’s legs from extreme heat, also contributing to the DR-Z4SM’s slim body profile. The use of a PAIR (air supply) system to the exhaust helps the motorcycle achieve emissions compliance without affecting performance.
A larger, thermostatically controlled cooling fan mounted to the left radiator helps maintain a consistent operating temperature.
2025 DR-Z4SM Transmission Features
The revised, compact, five-speed transmission utilizes a cable-operated clutch with a separate outer cover for simplified clutch maintenance.
Most of the gears and shafts in the transmission were updated to reduce oil windage (drag) and to increase strength.
The transmission’s output is managed by the Suzuki Clutch Assist System (SCAS). This system works like a slipper clutch by allowing a small amount of clutch slip under deceleration for smoother downshifts. The SCAS also works as an assist clutch, increasing plate pressure under acceleration, but always keeps the clutch lever’s pull light and precise. This large-diameter, wet, multi-plate clutch uses a precise cable-activated release, providing the rider with a light pull and a superb friction-point feel.
Riding on durable steel sprockets, a strong O-ring style drive chain contains lubrication pre-packed between the pins and rollers for quiet, reliable operation.
2025 DR-Z4SM Chassis Features
Supplied by KYB, the new long stroke, inverted cartridge-style fork has adjustable compression and rebound damping force with 10.2 in. (260 mm) of travel for smooth performance on all types of on road and on track surfaces. The new frame and fork also update the fork rake and trail specifications for a balance of nimble handling and straight-line performance. The new, rear KYB shock absorber has 10.9 in. (277 mm) of rear wheel travel with spring preload plus both compression and rebound damping force adjustments, and connects to a new, lightweight aluminum swingarm through a progressive linkage system.
The new frame and sub-frame provide a similar, ergonomically-sound riding position as the outgoing DR-Z400SM. To better suit on track riding, the new large diameter tapered aluminum handlebar’s grip position is set in the same height as the DR-Z400SM but are 0.78 in. (20 mm) farther from the rider, while the new, wider rider’s pegs are set at the same height but are 0.70 in. (18 mm) farther back. The DR-Z400SM’s seat height of 35.0 in. (890 mm) is retained on the DR-Z4SM.
The DR-Z4SM’s new bodywork features Suzuki Solid Special White No. 2 or Sky Gray bodywork with modern graphics. The bodywork smoothly fits together, creating a “linear connection” from front to rear, through a bold horizontal line the flows from the front fender through to the tail. The aggressive styling also conveys the impression that the DR-Z4SM is a serious on track performer.
The large new diameter tapered aluminum handlebars are light, strong and flexible to help damp vibration. Handlebar grips are a half-waffle design to improve rider comfort and control. Wider footpegs, with removable vibration damping rubber inserts, provide good grip to the rider’s boots when standing or sitting.
The redesigned trim frame combines cast components with thin chrome-moly steel tubes for exceptional torsional rigidity with minimal weight. It is formed from steel pipe that makes it rigid, strong, and supple to handle rough surfaces and improve rider comfort.
The aluminum under cover is standard equipment that helps protect the bottom of the engine. Suzuki Genuine Accessories offers a larger, thick aluminum skid plate that offers additional protection for the bottom of the engine and frame.
Spoke-style 17-inch front and rear wheels with blacked-out aluminum rims are fitted with Dunlop SPORTMAX Q5A sportbike tires. Built to perform optimally, whether negotiating the streets or riding on track.
New to a Suzuki SuperMoto model, Dunlop SPORTMAX Q5A sportbike tires feature a silica compound, which provides both dry and wet grip, as well as excellent reinforcement for longer life.
The front wheel uses a dual piston, sliding pin, axially mounted caliper that grasps a 310 mm stainless steel brake rotor. The rear wheel uses an axially mounted, single piston caliper with a 240 mm brake rotor that is also constructed of stainless steel for good heat dissipation and durability.
The fuel tank is a new, flush lightweight design where the side covers (radiator shrouds) cover both sides (fuel capacity is 2.3 US gal. (8.7 L)).
2025 DR-Z4SM Electrical & Electronic Features
Delivering a sense of control and comfort, Suzuki Drive Mode Selector (SDMS) provides the DR-Z4SM rider with a choice of three different engine power output characteristics (modes). Working in concert with the Traction Control System*, SDMS permits peak power in each mode while changing the nature of the power delivery.
Suzuki Traction Control System (STCS) continuously monitors front and rear wheel speeds, throttle opening, engine speed, and transmission gear. It quickly reduces engine output when it detects wheel spin by retarding the ignition timing and limiting the throttle opening. The rider can select one of four modes (1, 2, G, and OFF).
All of the DR-Z4SM’s lighting is new, low-draw LED type, including the turn signals (white lenses with amber illumination), the taillight, and license plate illumination light. The new bifunction LED headlight is a unique design that incorporates both the high- and low-beam functions into one, bright projector module
The DR-Z4SM has a newly designed LCD instrument panel that is light and compact, with a straightforward, legible display. This panel not only supplies critical real-time operating status information, but also keeps the rider aware of the settings for the bike’s respective systems.
The DR-Z4SM is equipped with a compact, yet effective Bosch-supplied ABS** control that offers Rear ABS** OFF mode, which switches off just the rear wheel ABS**.
Suzuki Easy Start system allows the rider to easily start the engine with a single, momentary press of the starter button.
2025 DR-Z4SM Additional Features
Suzuki Genuine Accessories provide riders a fun and practical way to customize and personalize their DR-Z4SM. These accessories include a handlebar-mounted DC power socket, a low-profile seat, an aluminum skid plate, cargo rack, handguard set (knuckle covers), front and rear brake disc guards, and more.
Suzuki 12-month limited warranty. Longer coverage periods with other benefits are available through Suzuki Extended Protection (SEP).
Eli Banish (69) in action at a RFME ESBK event at Valencia. Photo courtesy Tim Banish.
Roadracing World started this exclusive special feature recognizing the most promising young road racers as an answer to pessimists who claimed America had no new, up-and-coming young racers. This edition of the Roadracing World Young Gun Awards marks the 29th consecutive year of showcasing an abundance of new talent.
Roadracing World Young Guns have won:
FIM MotoGP and FIM Superbike races and World Championships;
MotoAmerica and AMA Pro races and Championships, including 14 AMA Pro Superbike Championships;
A KTM RC Cup World Final race;
WERA National Endurance Championships and WERA National Challenge Championships; ASRA/Formula USA Grand National and CCS National Championships;
AMA Road Racing Grand Championships and Horizon Awards;
USGPRU National Championships;
Many regional and local titles.
The competition has continually become more intense as more – and younger—racers with higher levels of accomplishment are nominated, and the level of achievement required to make the grade keeps getting tougher.
We’ve spent the last several months accepting nominations and evaluating road racers between the ages of 10 and 18 (as of the start of the 2025 season) who have, at a minimum, won Expert-level road races and/or Championships or had outstanding results as an Amateur/Novice. Most of the riders included here have done far more than the minimum.
The young riders recognized here are the most promising young road racers in North America, based on the 2024 season. All have earned the title of Roadracing World Young Gun.
We will feature one Young Gun per day, presenting them in alphabetical order.
Eli Banish. Photo courtesy Tim Banish.
Eli Banish
Age: 16.
Current home: Burlington, Kentucky (currently living in Valencia, Spain).
Current height/weight: 6’1”/145 pounds.
Current school grade level: 10th grade.
Began riding at age: 4 years.
First road race: 2017, Circleville, Ohio, Ohio Mini Road Racing League, Kids50, 4th Place.
Current racebike: TBA.
Current tuners/mechanics: Mark Junge.
Primary race series: TBA.
Sponsors: Fastline Track Days, Best Western Resorts & Hotels, KMA Racing, POP Shadow Decals & Wraps, Vortex Racing, 35 Motorsports, April Cody Real Estate.
Recent racing accomplishments: 2024 season; finished tied for 24th in British Talent Cup Championship (best race result was 7th at Snetterton), finished in top-10 in wild card appearance in RFME ESBK Supersport Next Gen at Valencia; 2023 season, finished 17th in British Talent Cup Championship (best race result was 7th at Thruxton); 2022 season, tied for 29th in British Talent Cup Championship (best race finish was 12th), won WERA Sportsman Clubman National Championship, won 2 WERA North Central Regional Championships (won 18 WERA races); 2021 season, won AMA Moto3 Expert Grand Championship, took 2nd in Formula Two WERA National Challenge Series Championship, won eight WERA Sportsman Regional Class Championships (won 26 WERA races); 2020 season, won D Superbike Novice WERA Sportsman North Central Championship (won six WERA races); 2019 season, named AMA Youth Road Racer of the Year, won five WERA Sportsman Regional Championships in Novice classes (won 13 WERA races).
2025 racing goal: Find a ride in MotoAmerica Supersport Championship.
Racing career goal: Compete in the MotoGP World Championship.
Racing hero: Nicky Hayden.
Favorite track: Road Atlanta.
Favorite hobbies: Cooking, cycling.
If I wasn’t racing I would be…: Making cooking videos for YouTube.
…..
Some of the riders who have graduated from Young Guns and gone on to racing success in National or International series include:
2017 MotoAmerica Superstock 600 Champion Jason Aguilar (R.I.P.);
2013 AMA Pro SuperSport East Champion, 2022 MotoAmerica Stock 1000 Champion, and MotoAmerica Superbike podium finisher Corey Alexander;
AMA Pro Daytona SportBike race winner Tommy Aquino (R.I.P.);
2008 Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup Champion, two-time MotoAmerica Supersport Champion, and multi-time MotoAmerica Superbike race winner J.D. Beach;
Five-time MotoAmerica Superbike Champion and Moto2 World Championship point scorer Cameron Beaubier;
Former Canadian Sport Bike Champion Tomas Casas;
Three-time Canadian Sport Bike Champion and 2014 Canadian Superbike Champion Jodi Christie;
FIM JuniorGP World Championship point scorer and MotoAmerica podium finisher TorinCollins;
Former AMA Pro SuperSport East Champion and MotoAmerica Superstock 1000 race winner Josh Day;
2011 Daytona 200 winner Jason DiSalvo;
2014 AMA Pro SuperSport Championship runner-up and current MotoAmerica team owner Dustin Dominguez;
2018 MotoAmerica Junior Cup Champion, 2019 MotoAmerica Twins Cup Champion, and 2021 Canadian Superbike Champion Alex Dumas;
Four-time Pikes Peak International Hill Climb race winner and former motorcycle track record holder Carlin Dunne (R.I.P.);
Canadian Superbike race winner Bodhi Edie;
Two-time AMA Pro Daytona SportBike Champion, two-time AMA Pro XR1200/Harley- Davidson Champion and four-time Daytona 200 winner Danny Eslick;
2019 MotoAmerica Supersport Champion and multi-time MotoAmerica Superbike race winner Bobby Fong;
2010 Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup Champion, 2014 AMA Pro Daytona SportBike Champion, 2015 MotoAmerica AMA/FIM North America Superstock 1000 Champion, and three-time MotoAmerica Superbike Champion Jake Gagne;
Two-time MotoAmerica Supersport Champion and World Superbike podium finisher GarrettGerloff;
2017 MotoAmerica Superstock 600 Championship runner-up Michael Gilbert;
2014 AMA Pro SuperSport Champion, 2023and 2024 MotoAmerica Stock 1000 Champion, and 2023 MotoAmerica King Of The Baggers Champion Hayden Gillim;
2002 AMA Superbike Champion and 2006 FIM MotoGP World Champion Nicky Hayden (R.I.P.);
2007 AMA Pro 600cc Supersport Champion, 2014 AMA Pro Superbike Championship runner- up, and 2017 MotoAmerica Superbike Championship runner-up Roger Hayden;
Eight-time AMA Pro Superbike race winner and two-time AMA Supersport Champion TommyHayden;
2013 AMA Pro Superbike Champion, 2016 MotoAmerica Superstock 1000 Champion, and 2022 MotoAmerica Supersport Champion, 2024 MotoAmerica Superbike Champion, and four-time Daytona 200 winner Josh Herrin;
2011 British Superbike Championship runner-up and former MotoGP and World Superbike regular John Hopkins;
2015 Supersport World Championship runner-up, 2019 and 2024 MotoAmerica Supersport Championship runner-up, and MotoAmerica Superbike race winner Patrick “P.J.” Jacobsen;
2021 MotoAmerica Supersport Champion, Moto2 World Championship point scorer, MotoAmerica Superbike race winner Sean Dylan Kelly;
Canadian Superbike race winner Kevin Lacombe;
Two-time MotoAmerica Junior Cup Champion, 2020 MotoAmerica Twins Cup Champion, 2022 MotoAmerica Supersport Championship runner-up, MotoAmerica King Of The Baggers race winner Rocco Landers;
Two-time MotoAmerica Stock 1000 Champion Andrew Lee;
2021 MotoAmerica Stock 1000 and Superbike Cup Champion Jake Lewis;
MotoAmerica Supersport race winner Sam Lochoff;
MotoAmerica Superstock 600 race winner Nick McFadden;
AMA Pro SuperSport race winner and MotoAmerica Supersport race winner Stefano Mesa;
Elena Myers, the first and only woman to win AMA Pro Supersport races;
AMA Pro XR1200 race winner, multi-time Loudon Classic winner, and two-time BRL Champion Shane Narbonne;
2012 Canadian Superbike Championship runner-up Andrew Nelson;
2016 MotoAmerica KTM RC Cup Champion, 2019 British Motostar (Moto3) Champion, MotoAmerica Supersport podium finisher, and two-time Daytona 200 winner Brandon Paasch;
2012 Daytona 200 winner and 2010 AMA Pro Supersport West Champion Joey Pascarella;
AMA Pro and Canadian National race winner and multi-time N2/WERA National Endurance Champion Chris Peris;
Two-time AMA Pro SuperSport National Champion, British Supersport podium finisher, 2020 AFT Production Twins Champion, and 2023 MotoAmerica King Of The Baggers Championship runner-up James Rispoli;
2015 MotoAmerica Superstock 600 Champion, MotoAmerica Supersport race winner, and Moto2 World Championship race winner Joe Roberts;
2022 MotoAmerica Junior Cup Championship runner-up and 2023 MotoAmerica Twins Cup Championship runner-up Gus Rodio;
2021 MotoAmerica Junior Cup Champion and multi-time MotoAmerica Supersport race winner Tyler Scott;
Former Red Bull AMA U.S. Rookies Cup Champion and former FIM Moto2 European Championship competitor Benny Solis, Jr.;
Three-time AMA Pro Superbike Champion, 2009 Superbike World Champion, MotoGP race winner, and AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famer Ben Spies;
FIM JuniorGP Moto2 European Championship regular Max Toth;
Multi-time AMA Pro race winner and four-time overall WERA National Endurance Champion Chris Ulrich;
MotoAmerica Supersport podium finisher, former World Superbike competitor, and 2024 MotoAmerica Stock 1000 Championship runner-up Jayson Uribe;
MotoAmerica Junior Cup race winner and current Supersport regular Max Van;
2017 MotoAmerica KTM RC Cup Championship runner-up, 2018 MotoAmerica Junior Cup Championship runner-up, and MotoAmerica Supersport podium finisher Cory Ventura;
Canadian Superbike race winner Alex Welsh;
Former AMA Pro Superbike Rookie of the Year, Chinese Superbike Championship race winner; MotoAmerica Supersport podium finisher, and 2024 MotoAmerica Super Hooligan Champion Cory West;
MotoAmerica Junior Cup race winner and 2024 MotoAmerica Superbike Cup Champion Ashton Yates;
Two-time AMA Pro Superbike Championship runner-up Blake Young.
Kensei Matsudaira (74) won the Ohvale 190 Sprint race and Race Two at Apex Racing Center. Photo by Karen E. Ott.
Kensei Matsudaira and Anthony Lupo won the Ohvale GP 190 class races at Round Three of the FIM Mini Cup series at Apex Racing Center in Perris, California. Matsudaira won the opening Sprint race, while Lupo took the win in the first full race of the weekend. Matsudaira struck back and took the victory in Race Two. (Scroll down for results.)
MiniCup GP190 Sprint Race Podium at Apex last weekend, with winner Kensei Matsudaira flanked by second-place Jase Dill (left) and third-place Anthony Lupo. Photo by Karen E. Ott.
Jase Dill won all three of the Ohvale GP 160 races, and Zaal Farhand swept the Ohvale GP 110 races.
The MiniCup GP 160 Sprint race, Race One and Race Two podiums were identical, with Jase Dill (center) winning, Zaal Farhand (left) finishing second, and Maverick Johnson finishing third. Photo by Karen E. Ott.All three Mini Cup GP 110 podiums were the same, with Zaal Farhand winning, Lambert Su taking second, and Mason McIntire finishing third. Photo by Karen E. Ott.Mini Cup GP 110 winner Zaal Farhand in action at Apex. Photo by Karen E. Ott.Mini Cup Stock 50 Sprint Race winner Marcus Su. Photo by Karen E. Ott.Luke Shen won all three Mini Cup Stock 110 races at Apex. Photo by Karen E. Ott.Tony Lupo (12) leads a Mini Cup GP 190 race at Apex. Photo by Karen E. Ott.
The sun has set on the second day of testing at Misano World Circuit “Marco Simoncelli”, Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) topped Day 2, setting the table for an epic showdown in Ducati’s back yard at the upcoming Pirelli Emilia-Romagna Round. Toprak Razgatlioglu (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) and his team look to have found some answers with their setup, but his work will be cut out for him at the upcoming race weekend. In P3 behind them, Axel Bassani (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team) continued his good run of form as the Italian sets out for more podiums in 2025.
Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) didn’t participate in the Test’s Day 1, the current Championship leader, however, needed no time to leap to the top of the timesheet. His 1’32.093s time propelling him to P1 in FP4. had it happened during an official round, his time would have shattered Razgatlioglu’s 2024 track record by more than a quarter of a second. Sam Lowes (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team) finished in P4 after his P5 result on Day 1. His pace seems to be improving as his 1’32.820s lap was faster than his Day 1 fastest lap by around seven tenths of a second. Italian rookie Yari Montella (Barni Spark Racing Team) was the second-fastest Ducati for stretches of the day; he went on to finish in P6 with his 1’32.962s lap. Montella’s teammate Danilo Petrucci was not as quick as the rookie for the second day in a row, finishing P9 on his fastest lap of 1’33.153s. Andrea Iannone (Team Pata Go Eleven) continues to fight through his two broken toes, suffered just 11 days ago, and looks to have made some progress with his bike, even despite that. ‘The Maniac’ finished P12 with a time of 1’33.364s. Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) finished the day in P13 and a time of 1’33.424s after his Day 1 P4. Ryan Vickers (Motocorsa Racing) closed out Misano’s Testing with a fastest lap of 1’33.816s to earn P16. Ducati test rider Michele Pirro was on track as well, testing Ducati’s new Panigale V4 R, he collected a total of 25 laps worth of data, the fastest of them a 1’33.956s.
Razgatlioglu (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) and Bulega traded places for P1 and P2 throughout the session, with minutes left, Bulega pipped Toprak by just 0.04s in the afternoon’s FP4, relegating him to P2 despite his 1’32.133s time fast enough to have broken his track record last year. The defending Champion will need to find a way to outpace Bulega at Misano if he wants to breathe more life into the Championship Race. Michael van der Mark (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) finished the day in P14, while his pace was not a huge improvement over his recent results, both the Dutchman and ‘El Turco’ will benefit from the data they collected en masse across both days, on Day 2 alone, the pair and the other two test riders- Markus Reiterberger and Sylvain Guintoli- cumulatively collected 190 laps, the most of any team.
Axel Bassani (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team) was the faster of the Bimota pair on Wednesday, finishing P3 thanks to his 1’32.798s effort. Finishing in P11, Alex Lowes’ (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team) fastest lap came in FP4 when he put down a 1’33.265s lap.
Remy Gardner (GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) was the fastest Yamaha at Day 2 of the Misano Test, taking fifth place from his 1’32.890s lap. Jonathan Rea (Pata Maxus Yamaha) was the second fastest Yamaha, narrowly missing the 1’32 mark in eighth place from his 1’33.019s lap. Andrea Locatelli (Pata Maxus Yamaha)’s 1’33.159s lap saw him place P10. In P18 from his 1’34.428s lap, Stefano Manzi (Yamaha Test Team) finished just ahead of Dominique Aegerter (GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) in P19. The Italian’s 1’34.428s lap was just 0.004s faster than the Swiss rider’s 1’34.432s time.
Iker Lecuona (Honda HRC) wasn’t quite fast enough to replicate his Day 1 P3, his P7 on pace for his recent form. The consistency of the Spaniard, however, could boost the confidence of the Honda factory team as he earned his P7 on a 1’33.017s lap. With his teammate Xavi Vierge (Honda HRC) still out with his foot injury, Tarran Mackenzie (PETRONAS MIE Honda Racing Team) was the only other permanent grid rider at the test for Honda, finishing 1’35.413s. Test riders Tommy Bridewell and Ivo Lopes finished in 23rd and 24th, running a total of 46 laps.
Garrett Gerloff (Kawasaki WorldSBK Team) followed up on his Day 1 P9 with a Day 2 P15. The Texan has shown glimpses of his pace from prior seasons, but consistent form with his new Kawasaki team has eluded him.
Philipp Oettl (Feel Racing WorldSSP Team) led the WorldSSP grid at Misano’s Day 2, his 1’37.595s hot lap leading Valentin Debise (Renzi Corse) at 1’37.640s and Jeremy Alcoba (Kawasaki WorldSSP Team) at 1’37.716s.
On Wednesday, May 28, Luca Marini suffered a heavy fall while testing for the Suzuka 8-Hour and will remain in Japan for observation and recovery.
After the British GP, Luca Marini travelled to the Suzuka Circuit for a first test on the CBR1000RR-R SP. Having completed a successful first day, the Italian began the second day of his program but crashed heavily. Suffering from a dislocated left hip, damage to the ligaments in his left knee, fractures in the sternum and left collarbone, and a right-sided pneumothorax, Marini was transferred to local hospital and stabilised.
Marini will remain under observation in Japan until he is deemed fit to travel.
Honda HRC and the Honda HRC Castrol team will support Marini fully in his recovery.
Alessandro Di Mario leads the Parts Unlimited Talent Cup By Motul Championship after two rounds of the new series. Photo by Brian J. Nelson
Talent Cup Will Race For The First Time At “America’s National Park Of Speed” As Road America Awaits Superbike And Five Additional Classes.
The Parts Unlimited Talent Cup By Motul class is back on track this coming weekend at Road America in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin, after a 57-day hiatus since MotoAmerica’s youngest riders threw a leg over their Krämer APX-350 MAs in anger at Barber Motorsports Park.
While the calendar has changed, what hasn’t changed is the fact that, after two rounds and four races, things are tight at the top. Well, maybe not right at the top.
Warhorse Ducati/American Racing’s Alessandro Di Mario heads to Wisconsin with a 21-point lead in the championship standings. The defending MotoAmerica Twins Cup Champion has been on the podium in all four races with two wins, a second and a third.
However, Di Mario has proven to be fallible as he was beaten by CTR/D&D Cycles’ Bodie Paige in race two at Circuit of The Americas and by Tytlers Cycle Racing’s Hank Vossberg in race two at Barber Motorsports Park.
Still, when he doesn’t have the pace to win, Di Mario has shown his experience by taking what he can get. And that has treated him well thus far as he leads Yamaha BLU CRU Estenson Racing’s Sam Drane, 86-65, with the 14-year-old Aussie showing grit with three podium finishes in the four races.
The battle for third is tight with Vossberg and Jones Honda’s Julian Correa tied, just 11 points behind Drane and only a single point ahead of Paige.
MP13 Racing’s Ella Dreher has scored good points in all four races, and she’s sixth in the title chase, 10 points clear of a tie between Envy Powered by Warhorse’s Derek Sanchez and Royalty Racing’s Carson King.
Mission King Of The Baggers – So Far, It’s All Wyman
The all-time winningest racer in Mission King Of The Baggers history is also the winningest racer in the early days of the new season. That man is 21-time Mission King Of The Baggers race winner, Kyle Wyman.
Wyman has been nearly perfect with three wins out of four starts on his Harley-Davidson x Dynojet Factory Racing Road Glide. The race he didn’t win was a wet race one at Road Atlanta, where class rookie Loris Baz snatched victory from Wyman on the final lap. The Frenchman’s victory vaulted him to second in the championship just four races into his King Of The Baggers career.
Another rookie, not only the class but also to the MotoAmerica series, is Brit Bradley Smith. Wyman’s Harley-Davidson x Dynojet Factory Racing teammate was sixth and third in the two races at Road Atlanta, and that puts him third in the championship – nine behind Baz and 43 behind the hot-starting Wyman.
Where art thou defending Mission King Of The Baggers Champion Troy Herfoss? The Australian is fourth in the championship with his season taking a big hit in race two at Road Atlanta when a mechanical failure knocked him and his S&S/Indian Motorcycle Challenger out of the race. But this is Baggers racing and anything can happen, so Herfoss will be looking for nothing but wins as the series heads to America’s Dairyland.
Herfoss’s teammate Tyler O’Hara, who was third in both races at Road America last year, is tied for fifth in the title chase with RevZilla/Motul/Vance & Hines Harley-Davidson’s Hayden Gillim.
Motovation Supersport – Jacobsen Vs. Scholtz
The two protagonists from last year’s Motovation Supersport Championship are protagonists again in 2025. Those two are defending series champion Mathew Scholtz and 2024 championship runner-up PJ Jacobsen.
But after four races, the order has been flipped with Jacobsen at the top of the standings over Scholtz by just eight points. Strack Racing’s Scholtz has two wins to Jacobsen’s one, but Jacobsen and his Rahal Ducati Moto w/XPEL Panigale V2 have been on the podium in every race. And therein lies the difference.
But it’s early days, and the rest of the Supersport gang can’t be counted out of mixing it up with the two at the top. The rest are being led by Scholtz’s teammate Blake Davis with his season bookended so far by two third-place finishes. He’s 32 points behind Jacobsen and just four points ahead of Vision Wheel M4 ECSTAR Suzuki’s Tyler Scott. Scott has one podium finish to show from the four races.
Altus Motorsports’ Jake Lewis is fifth in the standings as the series heads to Road America with the lanky Kentuckian’s best finish being an impressive second behind Jacobsen in race one at Road Atlanta.
Lewis is just a single point ahead of BPR Racing Yamaha’s Josh Hayes, with the five-time AMA Superbike Champion tasting victory in horrendous conditions in race two at Barber Motorsports Park to open the season.
Rahal Ducati Moto w/XPEL’s Kayla Yaakov, Celtic/Economy Lube+Tire/Warhorse HSBK Ducati’s Cameron Petersen, Vision Wheel M4 ECSTAR Suzuki’s Max Van and ADR’s David Anthony round out the top 10 after four races.
Stock 1000 – Teammates Are Tied
The Stock 1000 season is truly in its infancy with just one round and two races run so far in 2025. What we can glean from that opening round at Road Atlanta is that the top two are going to be difficult to beat.
OrangeCat Racing teammates Jayson Uribe and Andrew Lee split wins at Road Atlanta. Lee won race one on his BMW M 1000 RR, and Uribe flipped the results in race two. They sit tied atop the standings with 45 points apiece.
That puts them 13 points ahead of Jones Honda’s Ashton Yates, the Georgian putting his Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP on the podium in both of his home races at Road Atlanta.
Real Steel Honda’s JD Beach made his Stock 1000 debut in the series opener, and he came away from it with two fourth-place finishes on his Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP. The two fourths put him fourth in the title chase, six points behind Yates and seven ahead of Edge Racing’s Jason Waters and his BMW M 1000 RR.
Royal Enfield Build.Train.Race. – Knebel On Top
So far in 2025, the Royal Enfield Build.Train.Race. series is one of brevity. They’ve only had one round at Barber Motorsports Park, and they only raced once with the second of the two races being cancelled due to storms that made a schedule change necessary. The BTR women will make up for the missing race when the series goes to Ridge Motorsports Park in July.
So, they will line up at Road America with just one race under their belts and so far, it’s Kira Knebel who sits atop the standings with her victory at Barber. Knebel is five points clear of race-one runner-up Shea MacGregor with Camille Conrad, who was on the podium in race one at Road America a year ago, in third.
Pre-Road America Notes…
PJ Jacobsen and Tyler Scott won the two Supersport races at Road America in 2024. Jacobsen topped Mathew Scholtz by just .040 of a second in race one with Jake Lewis finishing third. In race two, it was Scott by a scant .001 of a second over Scholtz, with the South African missing out on victory in both by just .041 of a second. Jacobsen was third in race two.
Troy Herfoss won the first of two Mission King Of The Baggers races in 2024 by a whopping 5.2 seconds over Kyle Wyman and Tyler O’Hara. In race two, it was Wyman taking the victory with Herfoss coming up just. .039 of a second short of sweeping the two races. O’Hara again finished third.
Mikayla Moore didn’t start race one of the two Royal Enfield Build.Train.Race. events last year after suffering bruising from a crash in a Twins Cup practice session. That left Cassie Creer to take full advantage, and she took victory over Emma Betters and Camille Conrad. Moore was back in race two, however, and she was dominant, topping Aubrey Credaroli by 23.9 seconds. Creer ended up third in race two.
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as soon as they enter the website.
These adjustments are compatible with all popular screen readers, including JAWS and NVDA.
Keyboard navigation optimization: The background process also adjusts the website’s HTML, and adds various behaviors using JavaScript code to make the website operable by the keyboard. This includes the ability to navigate the website using the Tab and Shift+Tab keys, operate dropdowns with the arrow keys, close them with Esc, trigger buttons and links using the Enter key, navigate between radio and checkbox elements using the arrow keys, and fill them in with the Spacebar or Enter key.Additionally, keyboard users will find quick-navigation and content-skip menus, available at any time by clicking Alt+1, or as the first elements of the site while navigating with the keyboard. The background process also handles triggered popups by moving the keyboard focus towards them as soon as they appear, and not allow the focus drift outside it.
Users can also use shortcuts such as “M” (menus), “H” (headings), “F” (forms), “B” (buttons), and “G” (graphics) to jump to specific elements.
Disability profiles supported in our website
Epilepsy Safe Mode: this profile enables people with epilepsy to use the website safely by eliminating the risk of seizures that result from flashing or blinking animations and risky color combinations.
Visually Impaired Mode: this mode adjusts the website for the convenience of users with visual impairments such as Degrading Eyesight, Tunnel Vision, Cataract, Glaucoma, and others.
Cognitive Disability Mode: this mode provides different assistive options to help users with cognitive impairments such as Dyslexia, Autism, CVA, and others, to focus on the essential elements of the website more easily.
ADHD Friendly Mode: this mode helps users with ADHD and Neurodevelopmental disorders to read, browse, and focus on the main website elements more easily while significantly reducing distractions.
Blindness Mode: this mode configures the website to be compatible with screen-readers such as JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver, and TalkBack. A screen-reader is software for blind users that is installed on a computer and smartphone, and websites must be compatible with it.
Keyboard Navigation Profile (Motor-Impaired): this profile enables motor-impaired persons to operate the website using the keyboard Tab, Shift+Tab, and the Enter keys. Users can also use shortcuts such as “M” (menus), “H” (headings), “F” (forms), “B” (buttons), and “G” (graphics) to jump to specific elements.
Additional UI, design, and readability adjustments
Font adjustments – users, can increase and decrease its size, change its family (type), adjust the spacing, alignment, line height, and more.
Color adjustments – users can select various color contrast profiles such as light, dark, inverted, and monochrome. Additionally, users can swap color schemes of titles, texts, and backgrounds, with over seven different coloring options.
Animations – person with epilepsy can stop all running animations with the click of a button. Animations controlled by the interface include videos, GIFs, and CSS flashing transitions.
Content highlighting – users can choose to emphasize important elements such as links and titles. They can also choose to highlight focused or hovered elements only.
Audio muting – users with hearing devices may experience headaches or other issues due to automatic audio playing. This option lets users mute the entire website instantly.
Cognitive disorders – we utilize a search engine that is linked to Wikipedia and Wiktionary, allowing people with cognitive disorders to decipher meanings of phrases, initials, slang, and others.
Additional functions – we provide users the option to change cursor color and size, use a printing mode, enable a virtual keyboard, and many other functions.
Browser and assistive technology compatibility
We aim to support the widest array of browsers and assistive technologies as possible, so our users can choose the best fitting tools for them, with as few limitations as possible. Therefore, we have worked very hard to be able to support all major systems that comprise over 95% of the user market share including Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Apple Safari, Opera and Microsoft Edge, JAWS and NVDA (screen readers).
Notes, comments, and feedback
Despite our very best efforts to allow anybody to adjust the website to their needs. There may still be pages or sections that are not fully accessible, are in the process of becoming accessible, or are lacking an adequate technological solution to make them accessible. Still, we are continually improving our accessibility, adding, updating and improving its options and features, and developing and adopting new technologies. All this is meant to reach the optimal level of accessibility, following technological advancements. For any assistance, please reach out to
