The rookie of the year, Pedro Acosta was second-best with a 1:40.912 on his Red Bull GASGAS Tech3 machine.
Alex Marquez was third with a lap of 1:40.915 on his Gresini Racing Ducati.
Classification fp MotoGP
Aron Canet was quickest during Moto2 World Championship Free Practice Friday morning at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, in Spain. Riding his Pirelli-shod Fantic Racing Kalex on the 2.90-mile (4.65 km) track, the Spaniard recorded a 1:42.998 to lead the field of 32 riders.
Fermin Aldeguer was the best of the rest with a 1:43.198 on his Sync SpeedUp Boscoscuro.
Tony Arbolino was third-fastest with a 1:43.621 on his Elf Marc VDS Racing Team Kalex.
Angel Piqueras was quickest during Moto3 World Championship practice Friday morning at Catalunya, in Spain. Riding his Leopard Racing Honda on Pirelli control tires, the Spaniard covered the 2.90-mile (4.65 km) road course in 1:47.281, topping the field of 27 riders.
David Muñoz was the best of the rest with a 1:47.691 on his BOE Motorsports KTM.
David Alonso was third with a lap time of 1:47.897 on his Valresa Aspar Team CFMOTO.
Classification moto3 FP1
Keeway America, the internal corporate-managed distributor for Keeway and Benelli motorcycles in the USA, made its way to Milan, Italy last week for the 2024 EICMA show to collaborate with colleagues and partners, explore exciting new models, and to plan for Keeway America’s continued growth and success.
In the sprawling Benelli feature, Benelli made a spectacle with new models for EICMA attendees to ogle. Professionals and consumers alike shared their excitement for the new additions, including some with a foreseeable future in the US.
Front and center on the Benelli stage was the all-new TRK 902 Xplorer. The presenters for the new Benelli models described the 2025 TRK 902 Xplorer as “more than a motorcycle, but a representation of Benelli’s past, present, and future of innovation, passion, and dedication.” Notable features of the new release are the visibly new platform design and the 904cc engine capable of 100hp and 66 ft-lbs of torque. The TRK902 Xplorer was shown in its Jungle Fog color scheme, boasting premium integrated fog lights, adjustable windscreen, and 200mm of front and rear wheel travel. These features combined with the large 22L tank, give riders the confidence to explore the road less traveled. The 2025 TRK 902 Xplorer is a true expression of the capabilities and forward-thinking of the R&D and Design Teams at the Centro Stile Benelli in Pesaro, IT.
Benelli teased the Tornado 500 last year in Milan, and this year, the upgraded Tornado 550 sat among the production models, poised to debut around the globe. The 2025 Benelli Tornado 550 sports a new 554cc parallel twin engine, creating an impressive 61hp and 40 ft-lbs of torque. The sculpted fairings are eye-catching and proven to draw attention from passers-by. The bodywork is further accentuated by daytime running lamps on either side of the front projectors. Designed to resemble the canines of a lion, the running lights are a nod to the historic symbol of the Benelli Brand. The Tornado 550 dominates the road with Marzocchi forks up front and a matching mono-shock in the rear. Consumers will easily recognize other premium features on the Tornado 550, like dual Brembo brakes, integrated rear turn signals, and a large Wifi and Bluetooth enabled TFT display to keep the rider and machine connected. With its impressive spec sheet and stunning design, the 2025 Tornado 550 is sure to podium in markets near and far.
Benelli also released the versatile BKX300 and BKX300S. With riders looking to enter the adventure market in mind, the BKX is designed as a lightweight, all-around motorcycle, easy for any rider to maneuver on any surface. Both models utilize a single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine, creating ample power for the nimble platform. Both the road and trail versions allow the rider to fine-tune their motorcycle for their specific needs by adjusting preload, rebound, and compression damping on the front suspension, while the rear shock provides preload and rebound adjustability. The BKX300S is equipped with radial tires in a 17-inch front wheel and 17-inch rear wheel combination, while the BKX300 maintains the same19-inch front and 17-inch rear wheel combination as seen on Benelli’s larger adventure motorcycles. Making the entry into adventure riding more accessible, the BKX is a promising addition to any market.
The current Benelli lineup in the US consists of:
Available for purchase January 2025:
2025 TRK 702 and TRK 702X Benelli’s highly anticipated TRK platform update will make its US debut in January 2025. For enthusiasts looking for a highly refined addition to their stable, or their first adventure bike, the TRK 702 and TRK 702X are excellent options for a versatile and capable platform in the adventure segment. M.S.R.P. TRK702 $7,899, M.S.R.P. TRK702X $8,499
Available for purchase December 2024:
2025 Imperiale 400 Benelli’s timeless traveler, paying homage to Giuseppe Benelli’s Motobi Imperiale, is an inviting retro motorcycle riders will find easy to approach while offering a classic motorbiking experience. M.S.R.P. $4,899
Available for immediate purchase:
2024 TRK 502 and 502X The number one selling motorcycles in Italy, the Benelli TRK 502X, and its road-friendly counterpart the TRK 502, have proven their tremendous value and are positioned for success in the US. M.S.R.P. TRK502 $6,299, M.S.R.P. TRK502X $6,699
2024 Benelli 302S A sporty everyday machine, the friendly and capable 302S is a current favorite among Benelli enthusiasts. M.S.R.P. $4,799
2024 Benelli TNT 135 With its aggressive attitude and generous displacement, this mini moto is sure to put a smile on any rider’s face. M.S.R.P. $3,199
As Keeway America digests its experience of the 110th EICMA show, we will continue to provide the market and Benelli fans with information on the new and exciting products Benelli continues to offer.
It all comes down to this. The 2024 MotoGP™ finale has arrived and ahead of three days of title-defining track action taking place at the Motul Solidarity Grand Prix of Barcelona, the two Championship contenders – Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing) and Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) – faced the media on a Thursday for the final time this season to discuss #TheRematch decider in the sole Press Conference.
JORGE MARTIN (Prima Pramac Racing)
How do you feel heading into this weekend?
“I’m happy to be here, and I am very excited to be here battling with Pecco for another World Championship, I think it is crazy that nowadays, with the level that we have, we are both able to make the difference compared to the rest, so it is a privilege to be here. It’s really good that we are Racing for Valencia, I think it’s really good that in the case that we are racing, it’s for them. I’m happy and confident in myself, and I’m looking forward to riding because this week, a lot of things have gone through my mind, which is completely normal. I’m a bit nervous as always, but the important thing is that tomorrow we are finally on track and I can enjoy the weekend and try to be competitive.”
FRANCESCO BAGNAIA (Ducati Lenovo Team)
How do you see your chances of retaining the #1 plate after Sunday?
“First of all, I want to say that I’m happy to be racing here. I think it is a great mission for us to help Valencia and for what happened in Valencia. This weekend, we know that gaining 24 points across a single race weekend is quite difficult. We have to do our maximum, and my mission will be to win both races and what will happen will happen on Sunday. This track is very good for us, in May we were very competitive, so we have to take it as an advantage and try to be perfect. In May, we finished first and second, and third place finished 11 seconds behind us, so I think we showed again that we were on another level. I really hope that someone else will be in the mix, and my mission will be to win, I know that Jorge can be smoother and wait a bit longer. I think he can finish in seventh in both races and still win the title, so it will be difficult, but let’s see, pressure can play a role in that, and we will have to wait until Sunday.”
Featured in the October Issue of Roadracing World:
A Ducati Streetfighter’s Journey from Showroom to Racetrack
Roland Sands is the son of a custom bike builder, won the AMA 250cc Grand Prix national championship in 1998, is an entrepreneur and designer, and is also very energetic. Take Roland’s aesthetic, mix it with his philosophic synthesis of custom bike culture, punk rock, and road racing, and you get his racing class: Super Hooligan.
As Roland explains: “My dad’s always been into motorcycles but he started as a chopper guy. He was building springer front ends out of Long Beach, California, and started a company called Performance Machine. I was racing grand prix 250 bikes and at the same time, I was the head of design of Performance Machine. That’s where the genetics of racing and outlaw chopper design came together. It was a really cool time because I would come out, I’d race motorcycles, and then I’d go home and I’d design motorcycle parts…”
“What the **** Is A Super Hooligan?” By Sam Q. Fleming
Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology magazine is available in print and digital formats.
Click here for a sample issue of Roadracing World magazine. (Print Edition, one sample issue per household, U.S. address only.)
PREVIEW October 2024 Issue of Roadracing World
Click to SUBSCRIBE NOW ! Or call (909) 654-4779, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time, Monday through Friday.
—Read the October 2024 issue of Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology with your online subscription. Log in HERE
Available at Cycle Gear and other motorcycle retailers.
Visit www.roadracingworld.com daily for breaking news and events.
Like us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/roadracingworld
Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com @roadracingworld
Follow us on Instagram https://instagram.com @roadracing_world
Editors note: PIERER Mobility AG released the following statement to comply with EU regulations governing the disclosure of corporate financial information. The statement can be found on the company’s website here:
In the course of liquidity planning for the 2025 financial year, PIERER Mobility AG has to cover additional liquidity requirements at the level of KTM AG. As of June 30, 2024, the KTM AG Group was responsible for more than 95% of PIERER Mobility AG’s revenue.
Ongoing discussions with core shareholder Pierer Bajaj AG and major financial creditors of KTM AG on financial restructuring.
The Executive Board is currently working on securing the financing of KTM AG, in particular on a bridge financing in the three-digit million range. To this end, discussions are ongoing both with the core shareholder Pierer Bajaj AG and with existing financial creditors. The aim is to agree a standstill agreement with the financial creditors involved for the duration of these discussions as basis for the financial restructuring.
The negotiations and discussions are currently at an early stage. It is therefore not yet possible to make any concrete statements about the outcome of the negotiations, the conditions and the size of an additional financing.
In addition to securing liquidity, the Executive Board is endeavouring to put KTM AG back on a stable operational and financial basis. Against the backdrop of a challenging economic environment, an even more far-reaching operational restructuring is being driven forward with the aim of reducing inventories at both KTM AG and the dealer level to an economically sustainable level by significantly reducing production volumes. Furthermore, overheads are also to be significantly reduced once again.
The aim is to stabilize costs and sales at a redimensioned level from the 2025 financial year and thus create the basis for sustainable competitiveness and profitability.
Further information will be published in due course.
American Joe Roberts will miss the Moto2 season finale in Barcelona due to the wrist injury he suffered in Australia. Roberts had initially hoped to return to racing for the final round of the year with the American Racing Team, but it will take more time to heal the injury. Jorge Navarro will continue to deputize for Roberts. Navarro led an American Racing Team 1-2 in qualifying in Malaysia over Roberts’ regular teammate Marcos Ramirez and finished second in the Moto2 race.
Racers from MotoGP and other series are helping Valencia and the surrounding communities recover from the devastating floods that killed at least 200 and have left many unaccounted for.
Aspar Team posted on its social media images of new Moto3 World Champion David Alonso and Aspar Team owner Jorge Martinez helping dig through the mud and debris left behind by the storm. And images circulated of 2023 MotoAmerica Supersport Champion Xavi Fores helping shovel mud from the streets of the affected areas. “My home and family is now safe but we had some family homes lost … trying to get back to normal life and helping the most affected people now,” Fores said in a text to Roadracing World.
A portion of ticket sales from the MotoGP finale in Barcelona will go directly to Valencia relief funds. The series says it will have three auctions across the weekend – two onsite and one online. The onsite auctions will be on Friday and Saturday from 4 pm to 6 pm local time and be held in the fanzone at the circuit. MotoGP riders will be taking to the stage, joined by Legends and VIPs, to auction some of the incredible items donated from across the paddock.
“Fans from around the world can also take part in the online auction, where we have some true one-of-a-kind lots up for grabs in aid of the cause – we’re talking Maverick Viñales’ Moto3™ Championship-winning bike as one of the first items put forward,” MotoGP said in a statement posted on its website.
MotoGP also will be producing a special #RacingForValencia t-shirt, with proceeds going directly to the relief effort. Many in the paddock have also already donated and will continue to do so.
All MotoGP™ funds will then be donated to La Cruz Roja (Red Cross) who are working on the ground in the Community of Valencia, with the target of helping the towns closest to the circuit.
To donate, click here.
More, from a press release issued by the FIM:
FIM shows its continued support for the Community of Valencia
Having received the initial news regarding the recent and devastating floods in the Community of Valencia Spain, the FIM immediately expressed its condolences and sympathy in relation to the shocking loss of lives and the impact the resulting damage in the area is having on those who survived. The entire FIM family continues to send it heart felt wishes to everyone who has been affected by this disaster as they start the long and difficult recovery process to return to normal life.
The FIM has been proud to see the motorcycle community playing an active role in terms of offering help and support with the cleaning up work, with various high-profile riders having visited the region to provide morale and physical assistance.
During this same period the FIM has been working closely with the local authorities, the relevant national federations and promoters and other key stakeholders to create a positive outcome in terms of relocating the three important and title deciding events that originally were to be hosted in Valencia soon. These events could no longer be held in the area due to the damage to crucial infrastructure and to avoid any additional burden on local resources that are fully focused on restoring normality to the region.
All parties have worked together closely and tirelessly over recent days to ensure that the riders, teams, sponsors and the fans plus all other associates are able to realise the finales to the respective championships that the season long efforts and battles deserve. The FIM would like to express special thanks to both Spanish and Portuguese federations plus the promoter Dorna Sports for being able to accommodate these alternative and fitting events at such short notice and in these unfortunate circumstances.
Consequently, the FIM can confirm its full support, financial and otherwise, in relation to the following relocated events:
FIM Grand Prix World Championship event to be held on 15-17 November 2024 at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya (formerly Valencia) now to host the Motul Solidarity Grand Prix of Barcelona on the same dates as the original event.
FIM JuniorGP World Championship event to be held on 25-27 November 2024 at the Circuito do Estoril in Portugal (formerly Valencia) now to be hosted at the alternative circuit on the same dates as the original event.
FIM MiniGP World Series Final to be played on 12-14 November 2024 at MotorLand Aragon (formerly Valencia) now to be hosted at the alternative circuit on the same dates as the original event.
Speaking about this sad and sensitive matter FIM President Jorge Viegas explained: “The FIM continues to express its solidarity with all those affected by this tragedy, and to provide any support we can to the area that has been impacted. In these dark moments, the motorcycle community really shows its compassion and strength of togetherness, which is something the FIM can be very proud of. It is this same strong spirit that has been key to being able to ensure that the three season finales, that were due to be hosted in Valencia, have been able to be organised elsewhere within a matter of days. The FIM would like to say a huge thank you to all involved, and hope that these races bring some small enjoyment to the community of Valencia, that has motorcycle racing at the centre of its culture and brings measurable positive benefits to their recovery efforts.”
ABOUT THE FIM (www.fim-moto.com)
The FIM (Federation Internationale de Motocyclisme) founded in 1904, is the governing body for motorcycle sport and the global advocate for motorcycling. The FIM is an independent association formed by 121 National Federations throughout the world. It is recognised as the sole competent authority in motorcycle sport by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
Among its 50 FIM World Championships the main events are MotoGP, Superbike, Endurance, Motocross, Supercross, Trial, Enduro, Cross-Country, Speedway and E-Bikes. Furthermore, the FIM is also active and involved in the following areas: public affairs, road safety, touring and protection of the environment. The FIM was the first international sports federation to impose an Environmental Code in 1994.
American Garrett Gerloff exceeded his team’s expectations in their initial test together, and Gerloff will be a regular World Superbike top-five finisher and can race for podium positions in 2025, the owner of his new team says.
In an interview at EICMA with WorldSBK.com, Manuel Puccetti said Gerloff, who will join Puccetti Racing on the official Kawasaki ZX-10RR in 2025, impressed from the very first laps in the post-season test at Jerez.
“In Jerez, we tested Garrett Gerloff, the new rider for next year. He was directly very fast,” Puccetti said. “He was quite competitive, leading almost all day. Gerloff was very, very fast. Much more competitive than we expected. I don’t want to fly too high, but for sure the pace was quite good. I think … with his talent and speed, his age, everything, I think the rider can be often top five and we dream also to be on the podium.”
With the Kawasaki factory efforts moving to the BbKRT team and the Kawasaki-powered KB998 for 2025, Puccetti says his team will not simply inherit the former factory ZX-10RRs in 2024 specification, but already is testing upgrades.
“The base will be the bike from this year for sure, but already on the second day we tested new parts for the engine, some updates for the suspension, other things,” Puccetti said.
The team also will be running the new 2025 Kawasaki ZX-6R in the Supersport World Championship with Jeremy Alcoba. Puccetti says that he expects the new 636cc machine, which Kawasaki will homologate for 2025, will be “very competitive from the beginning” of the year.
The rookie of the year, Pedro Acosta was second-best with a 1:40.912 on his Red Bull GASGAS Tech3 machine.
Alex Marquez was third with a lap of 1:40.915 on his Gresini Racing Ducati.
Classification fp MotoGP
Aron Canet was quickest during Moto2 World Championship Free Practice Friday morning at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, in Spain. Riding his Pirelli-shod Fantic Racing Kalex on the 2.90-mile (4.65 km) track, the Spaniard recorded a 1:42.998 to lead the field of 32 riders.
Fermin Aldeguer was the best of the rest with a 1:43.198 on his Sync SpeedUp Boscoscuro.
Tony Arbolino was third-fastest with a 1:43.621 on his Elf Marc VDS Racing Team Kalex.
Angel Piqueras was quickest during Moto3 World Championship practice Friday morning at Catalunya, in Spain. Riding his Leopard Racing Honda on Pirelli control tires, the Spaniard covered the 2.90-mile (4.65 km) road course in 1:47.281, topping the field of 27 riders.
David Muñoz was the best of the rest with a 1:47.691 on his BOE Motorsports KTM.
David Alonso was third with a lap time of 1:47.897 on his Valresa Aspar Team CFMOTO.
Classification moto3 FP1
Keeway America, the internal corporate-managed distributor for Keeway and Benelli motorcycles in the USA, made its way to Milan, Italy last week for the 2024 EICMA show to collaborate with colleagues and partners, explore exciting new models, and to plan for Keeway America’s continued growth and success.
In the sprawling Benelli feature, Benelli made a spectacle with new models for EICMA attendees to ogle. Professionals and consumers alike shared their excitement for the new additions, including some with a foreseeable future in the US.
Front and center on the Benelli stage was the all-new TRK 902 Xplorer. The presenters for the new Benelli models described the 2025 TRK 902 Xplorer as “more than a motorcycle, but a representation of Benelli’s past, present, and future of innovation, passion, and dedication.” Notable features of the new release are the visibly new platform design and the 904cc engine capable of 100hp and 66 ft-lbs of torque. The TRK902 Xplorer was shown in its Jungle Fog color scheme, boasting premium integrated fog lights, adjustable windscreen, and 200mm of front and rear wheel travel. These features combined with the large 22L tank, give riders the confidence to explore the road less traveled. The 2025 TRK 902 Xplorer is a true expression of the capabilities and forward-thinking of the R&D and Design Teams at the Centro Stile Benelli in Pesaro, IT.
Benelli teased the Tornado 500 last year in Milan, and this year, the upgraded Tornado 550 sat among the production models, poised to debut around the globe. The 2025 Benelli Tornado 550 sports a new 554cc parallel twin engine, creating an impressive 61hp and 40 ft-lbs of torque. The sculpted fairings are eye-catching and proven to draw attention from passers-by. The bodywork is further accentuated by daytime running lamps on either side of the front projectors. Designed to resemble the canines of a lion, the running lights are a nod to the historic symbol of the Benelli Brand. The Tornado 550 dominates the road with Marzocchi forks up front and a matching mono-shock in the rear. Consumers will easily recognize other premium features on the Tornado 550, like dual Brembo brakes, integrated rear turn signals, and a large Wifi and Bluetooth enabled TFT display to keep the rider and machine connected. With its impressive spec sheet and stunning design, the 2025 Tornado 550 is sure to podium in markets near and far.
Benelli also released the versatile BKX300 and BKX300S. With riders looking to enter the adventure market in mind, the BKX is designed as a lightweight, all-around motorcycle, easy for any rider to maneuver on any surface. Both models utilize a single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine, creating ample power for the nimble platform. Both the road and trail versions allow the rider to fine-tune their motorcycle for their specific needs by adjusting preload, rebound, and compression damping on the front suspension, while the rear shock provides preload and rebound adjustability. The BKX300S is equipped with radial tires in a 17-inch front wheel and 17-inch rear wheel combination, while the BKX300 maintains the same19-inch front and 17-inch rear wheel combination as seen on Benelli’s larger adventure motorcycles. Making the entry into adventure riding more accessible, the BKX is a promising addition to any market.
The current Benelli lineup in the US consists of:
Available for purchase January 2025:
2025 TRK 702 and TRK 702X Benelli’s highly anticipated TRK platform update will make its US debut in January 2025. For enthusiasts looking for a highly refined addition to their stable, or their first adventure bike, the TRK 702 and TRK 702X are excellent options for a versatile and capable platform in the adventure segment. M.S.R.P. TRK702 $7,899, M.S.R.P. TRK702X $8,499
Available for purchase December 2024:
2025 Imperiale 400 Benelli’s timeless traveler, paying homage to Giuseppe Benelli’s Motobi Imperiale, is an inviting retro motorcycle riders will find easy to approach while offering a classic motorbiking experience. M.S.R.P. $4,899
Available for immediate purchase:
2024 TRK 502 and 502X The number one selling motorcycles in Italy, the Benelli TRK 502X, and its road-friendly counterpart the TRK 502, have proven their tremendous value and are positioned for success in the US. M.S.R.P. TRK502 $6,299, M.S.R.P. TRK502X $6,699
2024 Benelli 302S A sporty everyday machine, the friendly and capable 302S is a current favorite among Benelli enthusiasts. M.S.R.P. $4,799
2024 Benelli TNT 135 With its aggressive attitude and generous displacement, this mini moto is sure to put a smile on any rider’s face. M.S.R.P. $3,199
As Keeway America digests its experience of the 110th EICMA show, we will continue to provide the market and Benelli fans with information on the new and exciting products Benelli continues to offer.
It all comes down to this. The 2024 MotoGP™ finale has arrived and ahead of three days of title-defining track action taking place at the Motul Solidarity Grand Prix of Barcelona, the two Championship contenders – Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing) and Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) – faced the media on a Thursday for the final time this season to discuss #TheRematch decider in the sole Press Conference.
JORGE MARTIN (Prima Pramac Racing)
How do you feel heading into this weekend?
“I’m happy to be here, and I am very excited to be here battling with Pecco for another World Championship, I think it is crazy that nowadays, with the level that we have, we are both able to make the difference compared to the rest, so it is a privilege to be here. It’s really good that we are Racing for Valencia, I think it’s really good that in the case that we are racing, it’s for them. I’m happy and confident in myself, and I’m looking forward to riding because this week, a lot of things have gone through my mind, which is completely normal. I’m a bit nervous as always, but the important thing is that tomorrow we are finally on track and I can enjoy the weekend and try to be competitive.”
FRANCESCO BAGNAIA (Ducati Lenovo Team)
How do you see your chances of retaining the #1 plate after Sunday?
“First of all, I want to say that I’m happy to be racing here. I think it is a great mission for us to help Valencia and for what happened in Valencia. This weekend, we know that gaining 24 points across a single race weekend is quite difficult. We have to do our maximum, and my mission will be to win both races and what will happen will happen on Sunday. This track is very good for us, in May we were very competitive, so we have to take it as an advantage and try to be perfect. In May, we finished first and second, and third place finished 11 seconds behind us, so I think we showed again that we were on another level. I really hope that someone else will be in the mix, and my mission will be to win, I know that Jorge can be smoother and wait a bit longer. I think he can finish in seventh in both races and still win the title, so it will be difficult, but let’s see, pressure can play a role in that, and we will have to wait until Sunday.”
Featured in the October Issue of Roadracing World:
A Ducati Streetfighter’s Journey from Showroom to Racetrack
Roland Sands is the son of a custom bike builder, won the AMA 250cc Grand Prix national championship in 1998, is an entrepreneur and designer, and is also very energetic. Take Roland’s aesthetic, mix it with his philosophic synthesis of custom bike culture, punk rock, and road racing, and you get his racing class: Super Hooligan.
As Roland explains: “My dad’s always been into motorcycles but he started as a chopper guy. He was building springer front ends out of Long Beach, California, and started a company called Performance Machine. I was racing grand prix 250 bikes and at the same time, I was the head of design of Performance Machine. That’s where the genetics of racing and outlaw chopper design came together. It was a really cool time because I would come out, I’d race motorcycles, and then I’d go home and I’d design motorcycle parts…”
“What the **** Is A Super Hooligan?” By Sam Q. Fleming
Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology magazine is available in print and digital formats.
Click here for a sample issue of Roadracing World magazine. (Print Edition, one sample issue per household, U.S. address only.)
PREVIEW October 2024 Issue of Roadracing World
Click to SUBSCRIBE NOW ! Or call (909) 654-4779, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time, Monday through Friday.
—Read the October 2024 issue of Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology with your online subscription. Log in HERE
Available at Cycle Gear and other motorcycle retailers.
Visit www.roadracingworld.com daily for breaking news and events.
Like us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/roadracingworld
Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com @roadracingworld
Follow us on Instagram https://instagram.com @roadracing_world
Editors note: PIERER Mobility AG released the following statement to comply with EU regulations governing the disclosure of corporate financial information. The statement can be found on the company’s website here:
In the course of liquidity planning for the 2025 financial year, PIERER Mobility AG has to cover additional liquidity requirements at the level of KTM AG. As of June 30, 2024, the KTM AG Group was responsible for more than 95% of PIERER Mobility AG’s revenue.
Ongoing discussions with core shareholder Pierer Bajaj AG and major financial creditors of KTM AG on financial restructuring.
The Executive Board is currently working on securing the financing of KTM AG, in particular on a bridge financing in the three-digit million range. To this end, discussions are ongoing both with the core shareholder Pierer Bajaj AG and with existing financial creditors. The aim is to agree a standstill agreement with the financial creditors involved for the duration of these discussions as basis for the financial restructuring.
The negotiations and discussions are currently at an early stage. It is therefore not yet possible to make any concrete statements about the outcome of the negotiations, the conditions and the size of an additional financing.
In addition to securing liquidity, the Executive Board is endeavouring to put KTM AG back on a stable operational and financial basis. Against the backdrop of a challenging economic environment, an even more far-reaching operational restructuring is being driven forward with the aim of reducing inventories at both KTM AG and the dealer level to an economically sustainable level by significantly reducing production volumes. Furthermore, overheads are also to be significantly reduced once again.
The aim is to stabilize costs and sales at a redimensioned level from the 2025 financial year and thus create the basis for sustainable competitiveness and profitability.
Further information will be published in due course.
American Joe Roberts will miss the Moto2 season finale in Barcelona due to the wrist injury he suffered in Australia. Roberts had initially hoped to return to racing for the final round of the year with the American Racing Team, but it will take more time to heal the injury. Jorge Navarro will continue to deputize for Roberts. Navarro led an American Racing Team 1-2 in qualifying in Malaysia over Roberts’ regular teammate Marcos Ramirez and finished second in the Moto2 race.
Racers from MotoGP and other series are helping Valencia and the surrounding communities recover from the devastating floods that killed at least 200 and have left many unaccounted for.
Aspar Team posted on its social media images of new Moto3 World Champion David Alonso and Aspar Team owner Jorge Martinez helping dig through the mud and debris left behind by the storm. And images circulated of 2023 MotoAmerica Supersport Champion Xavi Fores helping shovel mud from the streets of the affected areas. “My home and family is now safe but we had some family homes lost … trying to get back to normal life and helping the most affected people now,” Fores said in a text to Roadracing World.
A portion of ticket sales from the MotoGP finale in Barcelona will go directly to Valencia relief funds. The series says it will have three auctions across the weekend – two onsite and one online. The onsite auctions will be on Friday and Saturday from 4 pm to 6 pm local time and be held in the fanzone at the circuit. MotoGP riders will be taking to the stage, joined by Legends and VIPs, to auction some of the incredible items donated from across the paddock.
“Fans from around the world can also take part in the online auction, where we have some true one-of-a-kind lots up for grabs in aid of the cause – we’re talking Maverick Viñales’ Moto3™ Championship-winning bike as one of the first items put forward,” MotoGP said in a statement posted on its website.
MotoGP also will be producing a special #RacingForValencia t-shirt, with proceeds going directly to the relief effort. Many in the paddock have also already donated and will continue to do so.
All MotoGP™ funds will then be donated to La Cruz Roja (Red Cross) who are working on the ground in the Community of Valencia, with the target of helping the towns closest to the circuit.
To donate, click here.
More, from a press release issued by the FIM:
FIM shows its continued support for the Community of Valencia
Having received the initial news regarding the recent and devastating floods in the Community of Valencia Spain, the FIM immediately expressed its condolences and sympathy in relation to the shocking loss of lives and the impact the resulting damage in the area is having on those who survived. The entire FIM family continues to send it heart felt wishes to everyone who has been affected by this disaster as they start the long and difficult recovery process to return to normal life.
The FIM has been proud to see the motorcycle community playing an active role in terms of offering help and support with the cleaning up work, with various high-profile riders having visited the region to provide morale and physical assistance.
During this same period the FIM has been working closely with the local authorities, the relevant national federations and promoters and other key stakeholders to create a positive outcome in terms of relocating the three important and title deciding events that originally were to be hosted in Valencia soon. These events could no longer be held in the area due to the damage to crucial infrastructure and to avoid any additional burden on local resources that are fully focused on restoring normality to the region.
All parties have worked together closely and tirelessly over recent days to ensure that the riders, teams, sponsors and the fans plus all other associates are able to realise the finales to the respective championships that the season long efforts and battles deserve. The FIM would like to express special thanks to both Spanish and Portuguese federations plus the promoter Dorna Sports for being able to accommodate these alternative and fitting events at such short notice and in these unfortunate circumstances.
Consequently, the FIM can confirm its full support, financial and otherwise, in relation to the following relocated events:
FIM Grand Prix World Championship event to be held on 15-17 November 2024 at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya (formerly Valencia) now to host the Motul Solidarity Grand Prix of Barcelona on the same dates as the original event.
FIM JuniorGP World Championship event to be held on 25-27 November 2024 at the Circuito do Estoril in Portugal (formerly Valencia) now to be hosted at the alternative circuit on the same dates as the original event.
FIM MiniGP World Series Final to be played on 12-14 November 2024 at MotorLand Aragon (formerly Valencia) now to be hosted at the alternative circuit on the same dates as the original event.
Speaking about this sad and sensitive matter FIM President Jorge Viegas explained: “The FIM continues to express its solidarity with all those affected by this tragedy, and to provide any support we can to the area that has been impacted. In these dark moments, the motorcycle community really shows its compassion and strength of togetherness, which is something the FIM can be very proud of. It is this same strong spirit that has been key to being able to ensure that the three season finales, that were due to be hosted in Valencia, have been able to be organised elsewhere within a matter of days. The FIM would like to say a huge thank you to all involved, and hope that these races bring some small enjoyment to the community of Valencia, that has motorcycle racing at the centre of its culture and brings measurable positive benefits to their recovery efforts.”
ABOUT THE FIM (www.fim-moto.com)
The FIM (Federation Internationale de Motocyclisme) founded in 1904, is the governing body for motorcycle sport and the global advocate for motorcycling. The FIM is an independent association formed by 121 National Federations throughout the world. It is recognised as the sole competent authority in motorcycle sport by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
Among its 50 FIM World Championships the main events are MotoGP, Superbike, Endurance, Motocross, Supercross, Trial, Enduro, Cross-Country, Speedway and E-Bikes. Furthermore, the FIM is also active and involved in the following areas: public affairs, road safety, touring and protection of the environment. The FIM was the first international sports federation to impose an Environmental Code in 1994.
American Garrett Gerloff exceeded his team’s expectations in their initial test together, and Gerloff will be a regular World Superbike top-five finisher and can race for podium positions in 2025, the owner of his new team says.
In an interview at EICMA with WorldSBK.com, Manuel Puccetti said Gerloff, who will join Puccetti Racing on the official Kawasaki ZX-10RR in 2025, impressed from the very first laps in the post-season test at Jerez.
“In Jerez, we tested Garrett Gerloff, the new rider for next year. He was directly very fast,” Puccetti said. “He was quite competitive, leading almost all day. Gerloff was very, very fast. Much more competitive than we expected. I don’t want to fly too high, but for sure the pace was quite good. I think … with his talent and speed, his age, everything, I think the rider can be often top five and we dream also to be on the podium.”
With the Kawasaki factory efforts moving to the BbKRT team and the Kawasaki-powered KB998 for 2025, Puccetti says his team will not simply inherit the former factory ZX-10RRs in 2024 specification, but already is testing upgrades.
“The base will be the bike from this year for sure, but already on the second day we tested new parts for the engine, some updates for the suspension, other things,” Puccetti said.
The team also will be running the new 2025 Kawasaki ZX-6R in the Supersport World Championship with Jeremy Alcoba. Puccetti says that he expects the new 636cc machine, which Kawasaki will homologate for 2025, will be “very competitive from the beginning” of the year.
