Travis Wyman switches to Bilmola USA helmets for 2022 MotoAmerica season
Replica of MotoAmerica veteran’s special edition helmet to be sold nationwide, abroad
When you see Travis Wyman competing in MotoAmerica Superbike, Stock 1000 and King of the Baggers this year, he’ll be racing in his own edition of Bilmola USA’s flagship helmet. The Harley-Davidson factory racer and 2021 runner-up in the Superbike Cup and Stock 1000 classes will be among the first American road racers to don a Bilmola RC-1 in pro competition, and his special edition helmet features his pet golden retriever, Buddy.
Founded in Thailand in 2010, the Bilmola parent company started out as a design and production firm for other brands before developing its own product line. The company’s product development division, Bilmola USA, opened in California in 2020. Bilmola USA will have support personnel at all remaining MotoAmerica rounds – beginning this weekend with the MotoGP/MotoAmerica round at Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas.
The full face Bilmola RC-1 model was developed by Bilmola USA and is expected to go on sale in the U.S. market later this year. The RC-1 is DOT and ECE approved and features a forged-composite shell that is lighter and stronger than carbon fiber.
“My Bilmola RC-1 is the best-fitting helmet I’ve worn in my 14-year pro racing career,” Wyman said. “I had a good first outing with the helmet at the MotoAmerica round at Daytona, where I nearly claimed my first King of the Baggers win. Bilmola USA’s support has been top-notch, and the RC-1’s visibility and ventilation have been outstanding. I’m looking forward to working with the company for the rest of the 2022 season and beyond.”
Replicas of Wyman’s special edition RC-1 are expected to go on sale in Asia later in 2022, as well as in the United States in the first quarter of 2023. Bilmola also plans to feature Wyman on a billboard advertisement in Bangkok, Thailand, later this year.
Wyman makes his debut with the Tytlers Cycle Racing BMW team this weekend. He’ll compete for the first time aboard an Alpha Racing-built BMW M 1000 RR in the two MotoAmerica Superbike races on April 8-10 at Circuit of the Americas.
For more information about Bilmola USA, visit www.bilmolausa.com or follow the brand on Facebook, Instagram or YouTube.
KTM’s RC 390 has always served as a solid and rapid platform for an ultralightweight racebike. For its 2022 update, the company put the revisions into the hands of Shaun Anderson, an engineer who also races in the Isle of Man TT events. So it’s not surprising that the bike is even more track-ready than before, and offers features simply not found elsewhere in this market segment.
KTM introduced the new model to North America media in the best possible way: It rented a racetrack, brought along former AMA Pro Racing National Champion Chris Fillmore (now KTM Road Racing and Flat Track Manager) to supervise, and turned journalists loose on a fleet of the new little sportbikes.
Several hours of ripping around at the (mostly) repaved 1.8-mile Streets of Willow circuit revealed a motorcycle that has all of the qualities that made the prior generation RC 390 so much fun at the track, as well as improvements that really have moved the goalposts in the category.
Tech Overview:
The 89mm bore by 60mm stroke single-cylinder engine remains essentially unchanged from the previous model, but an airbox that moves 40% more air means the torque output is slightly higher. The 373cc engine still makes a claimed 44 horsepower and redlines at an indicated 10,000 rpm.
The chassis has been changed significantly to increase lateral flex and feel on the track, as well as to reduce weight. The company claims the new steel trellis chassis weighs 3.3 pounds less than the previous model’s frame, and now features a bolt-on subframe that can be replaced for track use. Weight savings continue with the wheel assemblies (wheels, front axle, brakes) losing a combined whopping 7.5 pounds of unsprung mass.
A 2022-model KTM RC 390 at rest at the mostly repaved Streets of Willow course in Rosamond, California. Photo by Michael Gougis.
The inverted 43mm WP Apex cartridge forks now feature adjustable compression and rebound at the front, although preload is not adjustable. A single WP Apex split-piston shock offers rebound damping and preload adjustment at the rear.
Electronics take a big step forward, with a 3-axis IMU providing cornering and deceleration data sufficient to operate a simple on/off traction control system and ABS, and both are lean angle sensitive. The ABS operates either front and rear brakes simultaneously or the rear can be switched off in Supermoto mode. In addition, the RC390 offers clutchless up- and down-shift operation, although that feature comes at an additional cost. The six-speed gearbox transmits power through a power-assisted slipper clutch.
Handlebars are slightly higher than on the prior model, but these can be adjusted downward on the fork tubes for a racier riding position. The bodywork is larger for better aerodynamic performance and is easier to get on and off, because racers are constantly fiddling with their bikes!
Little things have changed to make the bike easier to live with. The tank is nearly a gallon larger than the tank on the older model, meaning fewer stops for fuel. The shifter and brake pedals fold in case of a tip-over. The larger windscreen provides better protection for the rider. The levers are adjustable.
And as always, KTM has a pile of performance parts available. Some of the test bikes were equipped with billet, folding levers; solid-mount racing rear-set controls; and lightweight sprockets. One machine was equipped with a kit WP shock with more adjustments and a fork kit with adjustable preload.
It’s safe to say that this machine changes the ultralightweight sportbike market segment. It’s the most sophisticated machine in the class, and it’s priced competitively with the others it races against in Junior Cup classes around the world.
But how race-ready is it?
Riding On The Racetrack
Throw a leg over–and I do mean throw, since the seat height is raised to 32.4 inches–and it’s an easy reach to the flat clip-on handlebars. There’s a reasonable amount of legroom, even with the racing rearsets. Thumb the starter and the bike settles into an easy idle, with little in the way of vibration. The Thin-Film Transistor dash is easy to read and adjusting the electronics is simple and intuitive.
The clutch pull is light. The quickshifter required deliberate motion at the foot, but if I was solid with my shifts it worked, and together with the slipper clutch it made corner entries significantly easier. Just sit up, brake and start stomping down on the shift lever. And if you’re in a little too hot, the ABS gives you the confidence to simply hang onto the lever a little longer, even after you’ve tipped the bike in and you’re angling toward the apex. Nothing like a little electronic safety net when you’re refining a skill like trail braking!
The revised bodywork and windscreen did their jobs. It was easy to tuck in and stay out of the wind, all the way up to the indicated 100 mph that I saw at the end of the back straight. The flat angle of the bars made hanging off a bit uncomfortable, but there was room for my 5′ 10” frame to tuck all the way in.
For a 373cc Single, there’s reasonable power, and the bike pulls cleanly from the bottom and spins to redline quickly in the first three gears. It starts to feel a bit breathless at the top end in fifth, and I didn’t spend much time in sixth.
The light weight and especially the lighter rims make the machine very easy to flick. It did take me a while to get used to how much or little effort was needed on the handlebars and through the pegs to put the bike where I wanted it to go. But whatever I wanted, the bike delivered it quickly. The famous Willow breeze was out in full force, making it a bit harder to be really precise with selecting lines, so I rode with a bit of the track in reserve. Still fun, and the bike stayed nimble as I picked up the pace.
The suspension was surprisingly well sorted, the forks rigid and well damped, easily well enough to play around at Streets, and a bit of vagueness at the rear was cured by adding damping and preload. I’d read some of the overseas reviews in which the test rider praised the shock’s behavior and was a bit skeptical. It’s not a race shock, but it really was noticeably better than I expected on an ultralightweight. Once the bike was set and loaded in a corner, it was dead stable.
My legs were sore–like, more than I expected them to be–the next day. Looking back, I think it’s because I took full advantage of a beautiful day, an open track, and a bike that was really, really fun on this particular circuit. The core of KTM’s little sportbike remains entertaining, and the electronics upgrades add to the usability of the package, especially for younger riders and those learning the ropes of track riding. I’ve got a test unit in the garage, and I don’t think it’s seen the last of its time on the track with me aboard!
Suggested retail starts at $5,799 and the RC390 should be in dealer showrooms by the end of May.
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 26th 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 11 AMA Pro Superbike Championships;
A KTM RC Cup World Final race;
The Daytona 200 (11 times);
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 2022 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. All have earned the title of Roadracing World Young Gun.
We will feature one Young Gun per day, presenting them in alphabetical order.
Torin Collins. Photo by Rupert Collins.
Torin Collins
Age: 16.
Current home: Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
Current height/weight: 5’9”/142 pounds.
Current school grade level: 11th grade.
Began riding at age: 5 years.
First road race: 2012, Calgary, Alberta, Alberta Mini Road Racing Association, Youth 6-9, 3rd place.
Current racebike: KTM RC250GP.
Current tuner/mechanic: AGR Racing Team.
Primary race series: FIM Junior GP Moto3 Junior World Championship.
Top sponsors: Bickle Racing, Novalda Coaching, Calgary Cycle Works, Blackfoot Motorsports, Taylor Racing, Kabuto Helmets, Mithos Leathers, Fusport Boots.
Recent racing accomplishments: 2021 season, tied for 30th in the FIM European Talent Cup Championship (best race finish was 14th at Jerez); 2020 season, raced in European Talent Cup (best race finish was 16th); 2019 season, finished 15th in British Talent Cup (best race finish was 7th); 2018 season, won EMRA Lightweight Superbike and Lightweight Open Championships (11 wins, set 2 class lap records), multiple race wins in 2018/2019 CVMA Winter Series, won UtahSBA Moto3 race at Utah Motorsports Campus; 2017 season, won 7 CMA Mini Road Racing National Championships, won 2 FIM Mini Road Racing Championships, won 8 races and set 2 class lap records during 2017/2018 CVMA Winter Series.
2022 racing goal: Finish in the top 15 in Moto3 Junior World Championship races.
Racing career goal: Race in the Superbike or MotoGP World Championship.
Racing hero: Jack Miller.
Favorite track: Estoril.
Hobbies: Riding motocross, ice riding, gaming.
If I wasn’t racing I would be…: Riding on the ice or a motocross track.
AHRMA Brings Vintage and Modern Bikes back to Thunderhill Raceway
ELORA, TN – After almost 20 years, the American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association (AHRMA) is returning to a West Coast venue that’s perfect for vintage and modern race bikes.
Two rounds of the 2022 Bridgestone Tires AHRMA National Historic Cup Roadracing Series will be held at Thunderhill Raceway Park, in Willows, CA, from April 28 to May 1, 2022.
“Thunderhill is a great track for all of the road race machines that run in AHRMA,” said Brian Larrabure, 2022 Chair of the AHRMA Board of Trustees. “The long straights give our vintage, and modern, big-bore bikes a chance to stretch their legs while the technical turns, like ‘the Cyclone,’ make it interesting and fun for our smaller bikes. Plus, the weather should be perfect for racing.”
A wide range of classes for both Vintage and Modern motorcycles and even sidecars will be competing on the 3-mile “East” Thunderhill circuit. The track’s elevation changes will challenge the racers and create great viewing for spectators.
“AHRMA got a taste of Thunderhill during the NorCal Classic in 2004 and we’ve been wanting to come back for years,” Larrabure said. “We can’t wait to show West Coast racing fans what makes AHRMA so good, right in their backyard.”
Whether you race or would like to enjoy a day of watching great racing, you won’t want to miss this event. The event will be a doubleheader weekend with racing on both Saturday and Sunday. On Friday there will be an AHRMA Academy of Road Racing (AAR) school available for new racers. Students who pass the school on Friday will be eligible to race Saturday and Sunday.
AHRMA is the largest historic motorcycle racing organization in the United States. It promotes national events at iconic venues including Daytona International Speedway, Heartland Motorsports Park, WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, and Barber Motorsports Park. For the best racing at the best venues, AHRMA is the place to be.
More details on the event & racing registration can be found at www.ahrma.org
The American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association is a member-owned nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the sport of historic motorcycle racing. Since 1989, AHRMA has provided an appropriate environment to showcase vintage and alternative modern racing motorcycles in the disciplines of road racing, motocross, dirt track, trials, and cross country. With more than 3,300 members, AHRMA is the largest vintage racing group in North America and is one of the world’s leading vintage motorcycle organizations.
Buell® Current and Future Products Get Standing Ovation at Daytona
Grand Rapids, MI – The Buell is Back mantra was reaffirmed and reinforced after a strong showing and enthusiastic response from consumers at Daytona Bike Week 2022.
“Thank You, Thank You, Thank You and now it’s back to work,” said Bill Melvin, CEO of Buell Motorcycle Co. “We were humbled by the wildly enthusiastic response from both the media and consumers at Daytona on our current and future models. Their encouragement and insistence to keep expanding the Buell brand into new segments while pushing the power envelope was clearly heard…so as it pertains to new product development – you ain’t seen nothing yet!”
Buell showcased the Hammerhead and 1190 SX models currently in production while unveiling two new prototypes, the Baja DR and SuperTouring, announcing their entry into the off-road and touring segments while maintaining the brand’s coveted DNA customers expect.
The Baja DR will boast the world’s fastest production dirt bike with a 175hp liquid-cooled, 72-degree V-twin engine with 101 ft-lbs. of torque. Add to this the trellis frame, adjustable swing arm for a 66-72” wheelbase, industry-standard 37” seat height with 26.75-degree rake and you’ve got the makings for an unmatched top-of-the-market speed and performance dirt bike. Production is planned for early 2023.
The Buell DR Baja prototype. Photo courtesy Buell.
The new SuperTouring model will possess the fastest touring bike in the marketplace producing an industry-leading 185hp. It retains Buell’s famous Fuel in Frame handling but will exhibit a more upright riding position, variable mounting points for hard or soft bags and room for rider customization with aftermarket touring accessories. Production is planned for winter 2022.
Opportunities to reserve a production slot for the Hammerhead, 1190 SX, Baja DR, and SuperTouring models are available now by placing a $25 reservation at www.BuellMotorcycle.com. You’ll receive a limited-edition Buell hat too!
“We were blown away by the reception of our future models and listened closely to our customers regarding their likes and dislikes,” said Dean Guard, Chief Product Engineer at Buell Motorcycle Co. “They took the time to evaluate our products and provide us with insights, and we can’t thank them enough for their passionate feedback and input. We will take this information back to our leadership team and make the necessary changes to continue to deliver products that exceed their expectations.”
Buell is headed back more energized than ever to deliver more Hammerhead and SX models, make improvements and prepare to launch their new Baja DR and SuperTouring models and explore opportunities to expand into new product segments as well.
Daytona Bike Week only reaffirmed that Buell is back and delivering excitement at every turn.
For future Buell updates, follow our news page on our website and our social media pages.
Current WorldSBK Race Lap Record: 1:49.620, J. Rea (Kaw), 2020
Current WorldSBK All-Time Lap Record: 1:48.458, J. Rea (Kaw), 2021
FIM Superbike World Championship
MotorLand Aragon
Alcaniz, Spain
April 4, 2022
Provisional Day One Best Lap Times (all on Pirelli tires):
Jonathan Rea, UK (Kaw), 1:49.394
Toprak Razgatlioglu, Turkey (Yam), 1:49.628
Alvaro Bautista, Spain (Duc), 1:50.025
Garrett Gerloff, USA (Yam), 1:50.120
Alex Lowes, UK (Kaw), 1:50.423
Loris Baz, France (BMW), 1:50.446
Kohta Nozane, Japan (Yam), 1:50.520
Iker Lecuona, Spain (Hon), 1:50.586
Eugene Laverty, UK (BMW), 1:50.600
Andrea Locatelli, Italy (Yam), 1:50.612
Philipp Oettl, Germany (Duc), 1:50.713
Scott Redding, UK (BMW), 1:50.734
Michael Ruben Rinaldi, Italy (Duc), 1:50.829
Lucas Mahias, France (Kaw), 1:51.151
Ilya Mikhalchik, Ukraine (BMW), 1:51.438
Xavi Vierge, Spain (Hon), 1:51.446
Roberto Tamburini, Italy (Yam), 1:51.737
Axel Bassani, Italy (Duc), 1:51.890
Christophe Ponsson, Belgium (Yam), 1:52.785
Luca Bernardi, San Marino (Duc), 1:52.937
Leandro Mercado, Argentina (Hon), 1:53.100
Oliver Konig, Czech Republic (Kaw), 1:53.421
Hafizh Syahrin, Malaysia (Hon), 1:53.945
Loris Cresson, Belgium (Kaw), 1:54.691
More, from a press release issued by Dorna WorldSBK Press Office:
Rea under race lap record pace on Day 1 at Aragon as he tops the WorldSBK timesheets
The six-time World Champion topped the times by just 0.016s ahead of nearest rival Toprak Razgatlioglu on the opening day of testing at MotorLand Aragon
Despite colder conditions impacting on Day 1 of the Supported Test at MotorLand Aragon, Jonathan Rea (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK) was able to lap faster than the race lap record for the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship venue as he topped the timesheets on Day 1 of testing. The six-time World Champion left it late to go top on Day 1 in the combined classification, beating his nearest rival by just 0.016s.
THREE MANUFACTURERS IN THE TOP THREE
Rea claimed top spot on the opening day of action with a lap late in the third and final session of track action as he posted a 1’49.394s, to go under his own race lap record at MotorLand Aragon by two tenths of a second. Rea, who was hoping to start finetuning his ZX-10RR machine ahead of the Pirelli Aragon Round beat Razgatlioglu’s best time of 1’49.410s, set in FP2, in the final minutes of Day 1.
Like Rea, Razgatlioglu was under the race lap record set the six-time World Champion in last year’s Superpole Race, although the 2021 Champion’s day ended a few minutes early when he suffered a technical issue at Turn 15 in the closing stages of the session. Razgatlioglu used new electronics throughout the test as well as working on the race setup of his Yamaha YZF R1. Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) claimed third spot despite a crash on his Panigale V4 R machine at Turn 6 in FP3, ending the day six tenths down on Rea’s best time as his focus was on the start of the season in just a few days.
ALL FIVE MANUFACTURERS FEATURE IN A TIGHTLY PACKED TOP TEN
Garrett Gerloff (GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) finished the day in fourth place as the American lapped around seven tenths slower than Rea, although Gerloff was fastest in the third sector of the lap. Gerloff’s R1 machine was fitted with the 2022 engine and a new exhaust seen on Razgatlioglu’s bike during testing as he claimed a top four finish on Day 1. Teammate Kohta Nozane ensured but GRT Yamaha riders were inside the top ten with eighth place, just four tenths off Gerloff’s pace on Day 1.
The American rider finished three tenths clear of Alex Lowes (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK) as Lowes had a couple of items to try throughout the test, on the suspension and chassis side, although did not want to change the bike too much due to colder conditions than are expected at the Aragon Round.
Andrea Locatelli (Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK) claimed sixth spot as he, like teammate Razgatlioglu, did not improve in the final session of the day. His best time was a 1’50.433s, just over a second off Rea’s time but 0.010s away from Lowes. Loris Baz (Bonovo Action BMW) was the highest-placed BMW rider as he claimed a top seven finish on his M 1000 RR, with teammate Eugene Laverty in tenth. Laverty’s best time was a 1’50.600s as he worked on the rear grip of his machine.
All five manufacturers were inside the top ten as Iker Lecuona (Team HRC) went ninth fastest on his CBR1000RR-R machine, posting a best time of 1’50.586s as he prepares for his rookie WorldSBK campaign. Lecuona’s plan was to do as many laps as possible but cold conditions in the morning and a Turn 7 crash in FP3 meant his running was disrupted, although he was okay following the crash.
TO NOTE…
Michael Ruben Rinaldi (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) was 11th, just 0.032s outside a place inside the top ten on his Panigale V4 R as he looked to test a new swingarm as well as different setup choices. Scott Redding (BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) claimed 13th spot for the factory BMW squad, three tenths down on the fastest time record by Baz, the fastest BMW rider.
Last year’s breakthrough star, Axel Bassani (Motocorsa Racing) was 18th on the opening day of test with a time of 1’51.890s, over a tenth slower than debutant Roberto Tamburini (Yamaha Motoxracing WorldSBK Team) who received a late call-up to the 2022 Championship. Christophe Ponsson (Gil Motor Sport-Yamaha) was 19th fastest after he had a Turn 2 crash in FP3, with the Frenchman okay after the incident.
More, from a press release issued by Aruba.it Racing Ducati:
The first day of testing at Aragon (Spain) ends with Bautista and Rinaldi in third and eleventh position respectively. Bulega tops WorldSSP
The first of two days of testing at the Motorland circuit in Aragon (Spain) ended with Alvaro Bautista in third place and Michael Rinaldi in 11th.
It was a very peculiar day, characterized by extremely cold temperatures that prevented the riders from being able to take advantage of the first of the three daily sessions.
In the early afternoon, the track conditions improved, and the two Aruba.it Racing – Ducati riders were able to work more effectively with their Ducati Panigale V4 R.
Alvaro Bautista ended with the third fastest time (1’50.025), recorded on SC0 tyres. A crash – without particular consequences – on the last run forced him to postpone the time attack attempt until tomorrow.
After a good fifth place in the second session, Michael Rinaldi – also due to some issues – was unable to make an impact in FP3 closing with the 11th fastest time in the combined standings (1’50.632).
Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati #19)
“We’ve been working a lot on the setup and electronics and we have been able to get some very interesting data. I’m really sorry for the crash on the last run. I went out for the first time with the second bike and, if I’m honest, I don’t know what happened. We will have to check the data to understand it better. Luckily there were no consequences. Anyway, I am confident about the pace we had with the SC0. Tomorrow we’ll also try the softer tires”.
Michael Rinaldi (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati #21)
“I can’t be satisfied with the way things went today. We weren’t able to find continuity on the track and that’s something we’ll talk about with the team to be able to do better tomorrow. Anyway, the feeling with the bike isn’t bad and that gives me confidence. Of course, we will have to work harder to be ready for the first round of the season”. WorldSSP
After being forced to skip the FP1 due to low temperatures, Nicolò Bulega showed to be at ease on the Ducati Panigale V2 of the Aruba.it Racing WSSP Team. The Italian rider completed 37 laps in the two-afternoon sessions, finishing in first place with the fastest time of 1’53.818.
Nicolò Bulega (Aruba.it Racing WSSP Team #11)
“It was a very complicated day because of the weather conditions. Luckily in the afternoon, we were able to work steadily, also because it was my first time on this circuit with the Ducati Panigale V2. We’re still a long way from the fastest times of this category at Aragon, but the feeling with the bike is growing and that’s positive”.
More, from a press release issued by Team Go Eleven:
DAY 1 – ARAGON – SUPPORTED TEST; PHILIPP FINISHES CLOSE TO THE TOP TEN!
Finally the first week of racing has come! WorldSBK toes on track for a two-day Supported Test at Aragon, the same track on which, next weekend, the protagonists will kick off the WorldSBK.
The temperatures certainly did not help teams and riders, since the freezing cold, with temperatures around 0 ° C, forced most of the teams to make a few timed laps. From the second session onwards, the sun showed up at Motorland, warming the track and air, thus giving the riders the opportunity to push. Philipp used race tyres, the harder compound, looking for the right references of lines and brakings, different from those used with the smaller bikes. Right from the start he felt at ease, constantly improving lap times. A two-hour break after FP2 allowed the riders to carry out a quick debrief with the technicians to improve feeling and set-up ahead of the last session of Day 1. The last 45 minutes, FP3, proved to be the faster session for many riders. The asphalt temperatures reached 25 degrees, thus giving greater confidence especially on the front. The German homeowner Go Eleven set excellent times on both hard and soft tyres, dropping below 51. With the best time of 1.50.713 he finished close to the Top ten, 3 tenths from fourth place.
DAY 1 – COMBINED RESULTS:
P 1 J. Rea 1.49.394
P 2 T. Razgatlioglu + 0.016
P 3 A. Bautista + 0.631
P 4 G. Gerloff + 0.726
P 5 A. Lowes + 1.029
…
P 12 P. Oettl + 1.319
There is still a lot of work to do to get ready for the first Friday of the year, but the start is cpositive and Oettl’s feelings are good. In the evening today the Go Eleven technicians will work to fix the corner entrance and the T 2, the two most critical points found during today’s tests.
Philipp Oettl (Rider):
“Today it was a new day on a new track with the Superbike, I am happy by the moment, we made some good steps in the right direction. If we continue like this also tomorrow, I think it would be great. I still have to adapt my riding style to Aragon with the Ducati V4-RS. It’s not easy to learn fast, but we are on the right way, but we need to keep working!”
Denis Sacchetti (Team Manager):
“This morning when we woke up it was really very cold, I thought it was a lost day; in reality then in the afternoon the temperature warmed up a bit and we were able to get out on the track in good conditions. There was even more grip than during last year race. We managed to work well, both in the tyre comparison and on the electronics settings. We collected a lot of data that will help us face the race weekend in the best possible way. Philipp’s adaptation is proceeding well, he manages to be fast on all tyres. I’m happy with both the team’s work and Philipp’s, even though it will probably be much warmer at the weekend than today’s conditions. “
Editorial Note: John Denning is the father of Paul Denning, principal of the Pata Yamaha by Brixx World Superbike team.
JOHN DENNING – 30TH MAY 1940 TO 2ND APRIL 2022
It is with great sadness that Crescent Motorcycle Co and the Crescent Yamaha WorldSBK team announces, following a short illness, the passing of Crescent’s modern-day founder, father-figure and constant guide, John Denning. [He was 81.]
John began working in the Bournemouth-based motorcycle and bicycle shop with his father straight from school in the 1950s, and leaves behind him a legacy of 65 years of service to Crescent’s customers and of guidance and care to Crescent’s staff. Operating the business in a prudent professional manner and gaining a reputation for customer service as his first priority, John was pivotal to Crescent’s growth and longer-term success as he supported his son, Paul, in expanding Crescent’s activities in the mid-1990s. This included the move into professional circuit racing in 1997, and John took great pleasure in all stages of the team’s growth, culminating with his huge pride in the ultimate accolade of World Championship victory in 2021. John played an important part in Crescent’s business to the end and was a constant source of encouragement and guidance.
John’s final “official” professional engagement was the recent presentation of the Torrens Trophy to Crescent at the Royal Automobile Club in London, where despite being weakened by his illness, the event was greatly enjoyed.
A keen sportsman and enthusiastic participant in four-wheeled machinery in addition to his passion for motorcycles, John Denning was an energetic, humble and deeply generous gentleman with an irreverent sense of fun, who will be greatly missed by all at Crescent, by his wife Angela, his family and his many friends and colleagues from all over the world.
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 26th 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 11 AMA Pro Superbike Championships;
A KTM RC Cup World Final race;
The Daytona 200 (11 times);
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 2022 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. All have earned the title of Roadracing World Young Gun.
We will feature one Young Gun per day, presenting them in alphabetical order.
Isaiah Burleson. Photo courtesy Isaiah Burleson.
Isaiah Burleson
Age: 18.
Current home: Lead Hill, Arkansas.
Current height/weight: 5’10”/150 pounds.
Current school grade level: 12th grade.
Began riding at age: 5 years.
First road race: 2010, Hallett, Oklahoma, CMRA, Jr. Motard, 1st place.
Current racebike: Kawasaki Ninja 400, Yamaha YZF-R6.
Travis Wyman switches to Bilmola USA helmets for 2022 MotoAmerica season
Replica of MotoAmerica veteran’s special edition helmet to be sold nationwide, abroad
When you see Travis Wyman competing in MotoAmerica Superbike, Stock 1000 and King of the Baggers this year, he’ll be racing in his own edition of Bilmola USA’s flagship helmet. The Harley-Davidson factory racer and 2021 runner-up in the Superbike Cup and Stock 1000 classes will be among the first American road racers to don a Bilmola RC-1 in pro competition, and his special edition helmet features his pet golden retriever, Buddy.
Founded in Thailand in 2010, the Bilmola parent company started out as a design and production firm for other brands before developing its own product line. The company’s product development division, Bilmola USA, opened in California in 2020. Bilmola USA will have support personnel at all remaining MotoAmerica rounds – beginning this weekend with the MotoGP/MotoAmerica round at Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas.
The full face Bilmola RC-1 model was developed by Bilmola USA and is expected to go on sale in the U.S. market later this year. The RC-1 is DOT and ECE approved and features a forged-composite shell that is lighter and stronger than carbon fiber.
“My Bilmola RC-1 is the best-fitting helmet I’ve worn in my 14-year pro racing career,” Wyman said. “I had a good first outing with the helmet at the MotoAmerica round at Daytona, where I nearly claimed my first King of the Baggers win. Bilmola USA’s support has been top-notch, and the RC-1’s visibility and ventilation have been outstanding. I’m looking forward to working with the company for the rest of the 2022 season and beyond.”
Replicas of Wyman’s special edition RC-1 are expected to go on sale in Asia later in 2022, as well as in the United States in the first quarter of 2023. Bilmola also plans to feature Wyman on a billboard advertisement in Bangkok, Thailand, later this year.
Wyman makes his debut with the Tytlers Cycle Racing BMW team this weekend. He’ll compete for the first time aboard an Alpha Racing-built BMW M 1000 RR in the two MotoAmerica Superbike races on April 8-10 at Circuit of the Americas.
For more information about Bilmola USA, visit www.bilmolausa.com or follow the brand on Facebook, Instagram or YouTube.
The author at speed on a 2022-model KTM RC 390 at the mostly repaved Streets of Willow course. Photo courtesy KTM North America.
Copyright 2022, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.
By Michael Gougis
KTM’s RC 390 has always served as a solid and rapid platform for an ultralightweight racebike. For its 2022 update, the company put the revisions into the hands of Shaun Anderson, an engineer who also races in the Isle of Man TT events. So it’s not surprising that the bike is even more track-ready than before, and offers features simply not found elsewhere in this market segment.
KTM introduced the new model to North America media in the best possible way: It rented a racetrack, brought along former AMA Pro Racing National Champion Chris Fillmore (now KTM Road Racing and Flat Track Manager) to supervise, and turned journalists loose on a fleet of the new little sportbikes.
Several hours of ripping around at the (mostly) repaved 1.8-mile Streets of Willow circuit revealed a motorcycle that has all of the qualities that made the prior generation RC 390 so much fun at the track, as well as improvements that really have moved the goalposts in the category.
Tech Overview:
The 89mm bore by 60mm stroke single-cylinder engine remains essentially unchanged from the previous model, but an airbox that moves 40% more air means the torque output is slightly higher. The 373cc engine still makes a claimed 44 horsepower and redlines at an indicated 10,000 rpm.
The chassis has been changed significantly to increase lateral flex and feel on the track, as well as to reduce weight. The company claims the new steel trellis chassis weighs 3.3 pounds less than the previous model’s frame, and now features a bolt-on subframe that can be replaced for track use. Weight savings continue with the wheel assemblies (wheels, front axle, brakes) losing a combined whopping 7.5 pounds of unsprung mass.
A 2022-model KTM RC 390 at rest at the mostly repaved Streets of Willow course in Rosamond, California. Photo by Michael Gougis.
The inverted 43mm WP Apex cartridge forks now feature adjustable compression and rebound at the front, although preload is not adjustable. A single WP Apex split-piston shock offers rebound damping and preload adjustment at the rear.
Electronics take a big step forward, with a 3-axis IMU providing cornering and deceleration data sufficient to operate a simple on/off traction control system and ABS, and both are lean angle sensitive. The ABS operates either front and rear brakes simultaneously or the rear can be switched off in Supermoto mode. In addition, the RC390 offers clutchless up- and down-shift operation, although that feature comes at an additional cost. The six-speed gearbox transmits power through a power-assisted slipper clutch.
Handlebars are slightly higher than on the prior model, but these can be adjusted downward on the fork tubes for a racier riding position. The bodywork is larger for better aerodynamic performance and is easier to get on and off, because racers are constantly fiddling with their bikes!
Little things have changed to make the bike easier to live with. The tank is nearly a gallon larger than the tank on the older model, meaning fewer stops for fuel. The shifter and brake pedals fold in case of a tip-over. The larger windscreen provides better protection for the rider. The levers are adjustable.
And as always, KTM has a pile of performance parts available. Some of the test bikes were equipped with billet, folding levers; solid-mount racing rear-set controls; and lightweight sprockets. One machine was equipped with a kit WP shock with more adjustments and a fork kit with adjustable preload.
It’s safe to say that this machine changes the ultralightweight sportbike market segment. It’s the most sophisticated machine in the class, and it’s priced competitively with the others it races against in Junior Cup classes around the world.
But how race-ready is it?
Riding On The Racetrack
Throw a leg over–and I do mean throw, since the seat height is raised to 32.4 inches–and it’s an easy reach to the flat clip-on handlebars. There’s a reasonable amount of legroom, even with the racing rearsets. Thumb the starter and the bike settles into an easy idle, with little in the way of vibration. The Thin-Film Transistor dash is easy to read and adjusting the electronics is simple and intuitive.
The clutch pull is light. The quickshifter required deliberate motion at the foot, but if I was solid with my shifts it worked, and together with the slipper clutch it made corner entries significantly easier. Just sit up, brake and start stomping down on the shift lever. And if you’re in a little too hot, the ABS gives you the confidence to simply hang onto the lever a little longer, even after you’ve tipped the bike in and you’re angling toward the apex. Nothing like a little electronic safety net when you’re refining a skill like trail braking!
The revised bodywork and windscreen did their jobs. It was easy to tuck in and stay out of the wind, all the way up to the indicated 100 mph that I saw at the end of the back straight. The flat angle of the bars made hanging off a bit uncomfortable, but there was room for my 5′ 10” frame to tuck all the way in.
For a 373cc Single, there’s reasonable power, and the bike pulls cleanly from the bottom and spins to redline quickly in the first three gears. It starts to feel a bit breathless at the top end in fifth, and I didn’t spend much time in sixth.
The light weight and especially the lighter rims make the machine very easy to flick. It did take me a while to get used to how much or little effort was needed on the handlebars and through the pegs to put the bike where I wanted it to go. But whatever I wanted, the bike delivered it quickly. The famous Willow breeze was out in full force, making it a bit harder to be really precise with selecting lines, so I rode with a bit of the track in reserve. Still fun, and the bike stayed nimble as I picked up the pace.
The suspension was surprisingly well sorted, the forks rigid and well damped, easily well enough to play around at Streets, and a bit of vagueness at the rear was cured by adding damping and preload. I’d read some of the overseas reviews in which the test rider praised the shock’s behavior and was a bit skeptical. It’s not a race shock, but it really was noticeably better than I expected on an ultralightweight. Once the bike was set and loaded in a corner, it was dead stable.
My legs were sore–like, more than I expected them to be–the next day. Looking back, I think it’s because I took full advantage of a beautiful day, an open track, and a bike that was really, really fun on this particular circuit. The core of KTM’s little sportbike remains entertaining, and the electronics upgrades add to the usability of the package, especially for younger riders and those learning the ropes of track riding. I’ve got a test unit in the garage, and I don’t think it’s seen the last of its time on the track with me aboard!
Suggested retail starts at $5,799 and the RC390 should be in dealer showrooms by the end of May.
Torin Collins (17). Photo by Manuel Tormo (Manutormo), courtesy Torin Collins Racing.
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 26th 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 11 AMA Pro Superbike Championships;
A KTM RC Cup World Final race;
The Daytona 200 (11 times);
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 2022 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. All have earned the title of Roadracing World Young Gun.
We will feature one Young Gun per day, presenting them in alphabetical order.
Torin Collins. Photo by Rupert Collins.
Torin Collins
Age: 16.
Current home: Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
Current height/weight: 5’9”/142 pounds.
Current school grade level: 11th grade.
Began riding at age: 5 years.
First road race: 2012, Calgary, Alberta, Alberta Mini Road Racing Association, Youth 6-9, 3rd place.
Current racebike: KTM RC250GP.
Current tuner/mechanic: AGR Racing Team.
Primary race series: FIM Junior GP Moto3 Junior World Championship.
Top sponsors: Bickle Racing, Novalda Coaching, Calgary Cycle Works, Blackfoot Motorsports, Taylor Racing, Kabuto Helmets, Mithos Leathers, Fusport Boots.
Recent racing accomplishments: 2021 season, tied for 30th in the FIM European Talent Cup Championship (best race finish was 14th at Jerez); 2020 season, raced in European Talent Cup (best race finish was 16th); 2019 season, finished 15th in British Talent Cup (best race finish was 7th); 2018 season, won EMRA Lightweight Superbike and Lightweight Open Championships (11 wins, set 2 class lap records), multiple race wins in 2018/2019 CVMA Winter Series, won UtahSBA Moto3 race at Utah Motorsports Campus; 2017 season, won 7 CMA Mini Road Racing National Championships, won 2 FIM Mini Road Racing Championships, won 8 races and set 2 class lap records during 2017/2018 CVMA Winter Series.
2022 racing goal: Finish in the top 15 in Moto3 Junior World Championship races.
Racing career goal: Race in the Superbike or MotoGP World Championship.
Racing hero: Jack Miller.
Favorite track: Estoril.
Hobbies: Riding motocross, ice riding, gaming.
If I wasn’t racing I would be…: Riding on the ice or a motocross track.
AHRMA racers Tommy Ryan (811), Arch E. York (913), and Andrew Berkley (21B) in action in 2021. Photo by etechphoto.com, courtesy AHRMA.
AHRMA Brings Vintage and Modern Bikes back to Thunderhill Raceway
ELORA, TN – After almost 20 years, the American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association (AHRMA) is returning to a West Coast venue that’s perfect for vintage and modern race bikes.
Two rounds of the 2022 Bridgestone Tires AHRMA National Historic Cup Roadracing Series will be held at Thunderhill Raceway Park, in Willows, CA, from April 28 to May 1, 2022.
“Thunderhill is a great track for all of the road race machines that run in AHRMA,” said Brian Larrabure, 2022 Chair of the AHRMA Board of Trustees. “The long straights give our vintage, and modern, big-bore bikes a chance to stretch their legs while the technical turns, like ‘the Cyclone,’ make it interesting and fun for our smaller bikes. Plus, the weather should be perfect for racing.”
A wide range of classes for both Vintage and Modern motorcycles and even sidecars will be competing on the 3-mile “East” Thunderhill circuit. The track’s elevation changes will challenge the racers and create great viewing for spectators.
“AHRMA got a taste of Thunderhill during the NorCal Classic in 2004 and we’ve been wanting to come back for years,” Larrabure said. “We can’t wait to show West Coast racing fans what makes AHRMA so good, right in their backyard.”
Whether you race or would like to enjoy a day of watching great racing, you won’t want to miss this event. The event will be a doubleheader weekend with racing on both Saturday and Sunday. On Friday there will be an AHRMA Academy of Road Racing (AAR) school available for new racers. Students who pass the school on Friday will be eligible to race Saturday and Sunday.
AHRMA is the largest historic motorcycle racing organization in the United States. It promotes national events at iconic venues including Daytona International Speedway, Heartland Motorsports Park, WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, and Barber Motorsports Park. For the best racing at the best venues, AHRMA is the place to be.
More details on the event & racing registration can be found at www.ahrma.org
The American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association is a member-owned nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the sport of historic motorcycle racing. Since 1989, AHRMA has provided an appropriate environment to showcase vintage and alternative modern racing motorcycles in the disciplines of road racing, motocross, dirt track, trials, and cross country. With more than 3,300 members, AHRMA is the largest vintage racing group in North America and is one of the world’s leading vintage motorcycle organizations.
Katsuyuki Nakasuga (1) and Kazuki Watanabe (15) fight for the lead early in Race One at Motegi. Also seen are Kosuke Sakumoto (27), Sodo Hamahara (2), Akira Yanagawa (9), Yuda Kamei (6), Satoru Iwata (8), and the rest of the field. Photo courtesy MFJSuperbike.
2022 MFJ All JAPAN Road Race Series Round 1
Mobility Resort Motegi, Japan
April 2-3, 2022
Superbike Race One (April 2):
1. Katsuyuki NAKASUGA (Yam YZF-R1), 14 Laps, Total Race Time 25:27.438, Best Lap Time 1:48.248
The Buell SuperTouring prototype. Photo courtesy Buell.
Buell® Current and Future Products Get Standing Ovation at Daytona
Grand Rapids, MI – The Buell is Back mantra was reaffirmed and reinforced after a strong showing and enthusiastic response from consumers at Daytona Bike Week 2022.
“Thank You, Thank You, Thank You and now it’s back to work,” said Bill Melvin, CEO of Buell Motorcycle Co. “We were humbled by the wildly enthusiastic response from both the media and consumers at Daytona on our current and future models. Their encouragement and insistence to keep expanding the Buell brand into new segments while pushing the power envelope was clearly heard…so as it pertains to new product development – you ain’t seen nothing yet!”
Buell showcased the Hammerhead and 1190 SX models currently in production while unveiling two new prototypes, the Baja DR and SuperTouring, announcing their entry into the off-road and touring segments while maintaining the brand’s coveted DNA customers expect.
The Baja DR will boast the world’s fastest production dirt bike with a 175hp liquid-cooled, 72-degree V-twin engine with 101 ft-lbs. of torque. Add to this the trellis frame, adjustable swing arm for a 66-72” wheelbase, industry-standard 37” seat height with 26.75-degree rake and you’ve got the makings for an unmatched top-of-the-market speed and performance dirt bike. Production is planned for early 2023.
The Buell DR Baja prototype. Photo courtesy Buell.
The new SuperTouring model will possess the fastest touring bike in the marketplace producing an industry-leading 185hp. It retains Buell’s famous Fuel in Frame handling but will exhibit a more upright riding position, variable mounting points for hard or soft bags and room for rider customization with aftermarket touring accessories. Production is planned for winter 2022.
Opportunities to reserve a production slot for the Hammerhead, 1190 SX, Baja DR, and SuperTouring models are available now by placing a $25 reservation at www.BuellMotorcycle.com. You’ll receive a limited-edition Buell hat too!
“We were blown away by the reception of our future models and listened closely to our customers regarding their likes and dislikes,” said Dean Guard, Chief Product Engineer at Buell Motorcycle Co. “They took the time to evaluate our products and provide us with insights, and we can’t thank them enough for their passionate feedback and input. We will take this information back to our leadership team and make the necessary changes to continue to deliver products that exceed their expectations.”
Buell is headed back more energized than ever to deliver more Hammerhead and SX models, make improvements and prepare to launch their new Baja DR and SuperTouring models and explore opportunities to expand into new product segments as well.
Daytona Bike Week only reaffirmed that Buell is back and delivering excitement at every turn.
For future Buell updates, follow our news page on our website and our social media pages.
Jonathan Rea (65). Photo courtesy Dorna WorldSBK Press Office.
Current WorldSBK Race Lap Record: 1:49.620, J. Rea (Kaw), 2020
Current WorldSBK All-Time Lap Record: 1:48.458, J. Rea (Kaw), 2021
FIM Superbike World Championship
MotorLand Aragon
Alcaniz, Spain
April 4, 2022
Provisional Day One Best Lap Times (all on Pirelli tires):
Jonathan Rea, UK (Kaw), 1:49.394
Toprak Razgatlioglu, Turkey (Yam), 1:49.628
Alvaro Bautista, Spain (Duc), 1:50.025
Garrett Gerloff, USA (Yam), 1:50.120
Alex Lowes, UK (Kaw), 1:50.423
Loris Baz, France (BMW), 1:50.446
Kohta Nozane, Japan (Yam), 1:50.520
Iker Lecuona, Spain (Hon), 1:50.586
Eugene Laverty, UK (BMW), 1:50.600
Andrea Locatelli, Italy (Yam), 1:50.612
Philipp Oettl, Germany (Duc), 1:50.713
Scott Redding, UK (BMW), 1:50.734
Michael Ruben Rinaldi, Italy (Duc), 1:50.829
Lucas Mahias, France (Kaw), 1:51.151
Ilya Mikhalchik, Ukraine (BMW), 1:51.438
Xavi Vierge, Spain (Hon), 1:51.446
Roberto Tamburini, Italy (Yam), 1:51.737
Axel Bassani, Italy (Duc), 1:51.890
Christophe Ponsson, Belgium (Yam), 1:52.785
Luca Bernardi, San Marino (Duc), 1:52.937
Leandro Mercado, Argentina (Hon), 1:53.100
Oliver Konig, Czech Republic (Kaw), 1:53.421
Hafizh Syahrin, Malaysia (Hon), 1:53.945
Loris Cresson, Belgium (Kaw), 1:54.691
More, from a press release issued by Dorna WorldSBK Press Office:
Rea under race lap record pace on Day 1 at Aragon as he tops the WorldSBK timesheets
The six-time World Champion topped the times by just 0.016s ahead of nearest rival Toprak Razgatlioglu on the opening day of testing at MotorLand Aragon
Despite colder conditions impacting on Day 1 of the Supported Test at MotorLand Aragon, Jonathan Rea (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK) was able to lap faster than the race lap record for the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship venue as he topped the timesheets on Day 1 of testing. The six-time World Champion left it late to go top on Day 1 in the combined classification, beating his nearest rival by just 0.016s.
THREE MANUFACTURERS IN THE TOP THREE
Rea claimed top spot on the opening day of action with a lap late in the third and final session of track action as he posted a 1’49.394s, to go under his own race lap record at MotorLand Aragon by two tenths of a second. Rea, who was hoping to start finetuning his ZX-10RR machine ahead of the Pirelli Aragon Round beat Razgatlioglu’s best time of 1’49.410s, set in FP2, in the final minutes of Day 1.
Like Rea, Razgatlioglu was under the race lap record set the six-time World Champion in last year’s Superpole Race, although the 2021 Champion’s day ended a few minutes early when he suffered a technical issue at Turn 15 in the closing stages of the session. Razgatlioglu used new electronics throughout the test as well as working on the race setup of his Yamaha YZF R1. Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) claimed third spot despite a crash on his Panigale V4 R machine at Turn 6 in FP3, ending the day six tenths down on Rea’s best time as his focus was on the start of the season in just a few days.
ALL FIVE MANUFACTURERS FEATURE IN A TIGHTLY PACKED TOP TEN
Garrett Gerloff (GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) finished the day in fourth place as the American lapped around seven tenths slower than Rea, although Gerloff was fastest in the third sector of the lap. Gerloff’s R1 machine was fitted with the 2022 engine and a new exhaust seen on Razgatlioglu’s bike during testing as he claimed a top four finish on Day 1. Teammate Kohta Nozane ensured but GRT Yamaha riders were inside the top ten with eighth place, just four tenths off Gerloff’s pace on Day 1.
The American rider finished three tenths clear of Alex Lowes (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK) as Lowes had a couple of items to try throughout the test, on the suspension and chassis side, although did not want to change the bike too much due to colder conditions than are expected at the Aragon Round.
Andrea Locatelli (Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK) claimed sixth spot as he, like teammate Razgatlioglu, did not improve in the final session of the day. His best time was a 1’50.433s, just over a second off Rea’s time but 0.010s away from Lowes. Loris Baz (Bonovo Action BMW) was the highest-placed BMW rider as he claimed a top seven finish on his M 1000 RR, with teammate Eugene Laverty in tenth. Laverty’s best time was a 1’50.600s as he worked on the rear grip of his machine.
All five manufacturers were inside the top ten as Iker Lecuona (Team HRC) went ninth fastest on his CBR1000RR-R machine, posting a best time of 1’50.586s as he prepares for his rookie WorldSBK campaign. Lecuona’s plan was to do as many laps as possible but cold conditions in the morning and a Turn 7 crash in FP3 meant his running was disrupted, although he was okay following the crash.
TO NOTE…
Michael Ruben Rinaldi (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) was 11th, just 0.032s outside a place inside the top ten on his Panigale V4 R as he looked to test a new swingarm as well as different setup choices. Scott Redding (BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) claimed 13th spot for the factory BMW squad, three tenths down on the fastest time record by Baz, the fastest BMW rider.
Last year’s breakthrough star, Axel Bassani (Motocorsa Racing) was 18th on the opening day of test with a time of 1’51.890s, over a tenth slower than debutant Roberto Tamburini (Yamaha Motoxracing WorldSBK Team) who received a late call-up to the 2022 Championship. Christophe Ponsson (Gil Motor Sport-Yamaha) was 19th fastest after he had a Turn 2 crash in FP3, with the Frenchman okay after the incident.
More, from a press release issued by Aruba.it Racing Ducati:
The first day of testing at Aragon (Spain) ends with Bautista and Rinaldi in third and eleventh position respectively. Bulega tops WorldSSP
The first of two days of testing at the Motorland circuit in Aragon (Spain) ended with Alvaro Bautista in third place and Michael Rinaldi in 11th.
It was a very peculiar day, characterized by extremely cold temperatures that prevented the riders from being able to take advantage of the first of the three daily sessions.
In the early afternoon, the track conditions improved, and the two Aruba.it Racing – Ducati riders were able to work more effectively with their Ducati Panigale V4 R.
Alvaro Bautista ended with the third fastest time (1’50.025), recorded on SC0 tyres. A crash – without particular consequences – on the last run forced him to postpone the time attack attempt until tomorrow.
After a good fifth place in the second session, Michael Rinaldi – also due to some issues – was unable to make an impact in FP3 closing with the 11th fastest time in the combined standings (1’50.632).
Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati #19)
“We’ve been working a lot on the setup and electronics and we have been able to get some very interesting data. I’m really sorry for the crash on the last run. I went out for the first time with the second bike and, if I’m honest, I don’t know what happened. We will have to check the data to understand it better. Luckily there were no consequences. Anyway, I am confident about the pace we had with the SC0. Tomorrow we’ll also try the softer tires”.
Michael Rinaldi (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati #21)
“I can’t be satisfied with the way things went today. We weren’t able to find continuity on the track and that’s something we’ll talk about with the team to be able to do better tomorrow. Anyway, the feeling with the bike isn’t bad and that gives me confidence. Of course, we will have to work harder to be ready for the first round of the season”. WorldSSP
After being forced to skip the FP1 due to low temperatures, Nicolò Bulega showed to be at ease on the Ducati Panigale V2 of the Aruba.it Racing WSSP Team. The Italian rider completed 37 laps in the two-afternoon sessions, finishing in first place with the fastest time of 1’53.818.
Nicolò Bulega (Aruba.it Racing WSSP Team #11)
“It was a very complicated day because of the weather conditions. Luckily in the afternoon, we were able to work steadily, also because it was my first time on this circuit with the Ducati Panigale V2. We’re still a long way from the fastest times of this category at Aragon, but the feeling with the bike is growing and that’s positive”.
More, from a press release issued by Team Go Eleven:
DAY 1 – ARAGON – SUPPORTED TEST; PHILIPP FINISHES CLOSE TO THE TOP TEN!
Finally the first week of racing has come! WorldSBK toes on track for a two-day Supported Test at Aragon, the same track on which, next weekend, the protagonists will kick off the WorldSBK.
The temperatures certainly did not help teams and riders, since the freezing cold, with temperatures around 0 ° C, forced most of the teams to make a few timed laps. From the second session onwards, the sun showed up at Motorland, warming the track and air, thus giving the riders the opportunity to push. Philipp used race tyres, the harder compound, looking for the right references of lines and brakings, different from those used with the smaller bikes. Right from the start he felt at ease, constantly improving lap times. A two-hour break after FP2 allowed the riders to carry out a quick debrief with the technicians to improve feeling and set-up ahead of the last session of Day 1. The last 45 minutes, FP3, proved to be the faster session for many riders. The asphalt temperatures reached 25 degrees, thus giving greater confidence especially on the front. The German homeowner Go Eleven set excellent times on both hard and soft tyres, dropping below 51. With the best time of 1.50.713 he finished close to the Top ten, 3 tenths from fourth place.
DAY 1 – COMBINED RESULTS:
P 1 J. Rea 1.49.394
P 2 T. Razgatlioglu + 0.016
P 3 A. Bautista + 0.631
P 4 G. Gerloff + 0.726
P 5 A. Lowes + 1.029
…
P 12 P. Oettl + 1.319
There is still a lot of work to do to get ready for the first Friday of the year, but the start is cpositive and Oettl’s feelings are good. In the evening today the Go Eleven technicians will work to fix the corner entrance and the T 2, the two most critical points found during today’s tests.
Philipp Oettl (Rider):
“Today it was a new day on a new track with the Superbike, I am happy by the moment, we made some good steps in the right direction. If we continue like this also tomorrow, I think it would be great. I still have to adapt my riding style to Aragon with the Ducati V4-RS. It’s not easy to learn fast, but we are on the right way, but we need to keep working!”
Denis Sacchetti (Team Manager):
“This morning when we woke up it was really very cold, I thought it was a lost day; in reality then in the afternoon the temperature warmed up a bit and we were able to get out on the track in good conditions. There was even more grip than during last year race. We managed to work well, both in the tyre comparison and on the electronics settings. We collected a lot of data that will help us face the race weekend in the best possible way. Philipp’s adaptation is proceeding well, he manages to be fast on all tyres. I’m happy with both the team’s work and Philipp’s, even though it will probably be much warmer at the weekend than today’s conditions. “
John Denning, R.I.P. Photo courtesy Crescent Motorcycle Co.
Editorial Note: John Denning is the father of Paul Denning, principal of the Pata Yamaha by Brixx World Superbike team.
JOHN DENNING – 30TH MAY 1940 TO 2ND APRIL 2022
It is with great sadness that Crescent Motorcycle Co and the Crescent Yamaha WorldSBK team announces, following a short illness, the passing of Crescent’s modern-day founder, father-figure and constant guide, John Denning. [He was 81.]
John began working in the Bournemouth-based motorcycle and bicycle shop with his father straight from school in the 1950s, and leaves behind him a legacy of 65 years of service to Crescent’s customers and of guidance and care to Crescent’s staff. Operating the business in a prudent professional manner and gaining a reputation for customer service as his first priority, John was pivotal to Crescent’s growth and longer-term success as he supported his son, Paul, in expanding Crescent’s activities in the mid-1990s. This included the move into professional circuit racing in 1997, and John took great pleasure in all stages of the team’s growth, culminating with his huge pride in the ultimate accolade of World Championship victory in 2021. John played an important part in Crescent’s business to the end and was a constant source of encouragement and guidance.
John’s final “official” professional engagement was the recent presentation of the Torrens Trophy to Crescent at the Royal Automobile Club in London, where despite being weakened by his illness, the event was greatly enjoyed.
A keen sportsman and enthusiastic participant in four-wheeled machinery in addition to his passion for motorcycles, John Denning was an energetic, humble and deeply generous gentleman with an irreverent sense of fun, who will be greatly missed by all at Crescent, by his wife Angela, his family and his many friends and colleagues from all over the world.
Isaiah Burleson (919). Photo by David Gillen, courtesy Isaiah Burleson.
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 26th 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 11 AMA Pro Superbike Championships;
A KTM RC Cup World Final race;
The Daytona 200 (11 times);
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 2022 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. All have earned the title of Roadracing World Young Gun.
We will feature one Young Gun per day, presenting them in alphabetical order.
Isaiah Burleson. Photo courtesy Isaiah Burleson.
Isaiah Burleson
Age: 18.
Current home: Lead Hill, Arkansas.
Current height/weight: 5’10”/150 pounds.
Current school grade level: 12th grade.
Began riding at age: 5 years.
First road race: 2010, Hallett, Oklahoma, CMRA, Jr. Motard, 1st place.
Current racebike: Kawasaki Ninja 400, Yamaha YZF-R6.
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www.roadracingworld.com
November 10, 2026
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