The Motorcycle Roadracing Association (MRA) proudly announces a full collaboration and partnership with the AirMedCare Network. The AirMedCare Network is an emergency medical assistance provider specializing in emergency helicopter transportation. With the remote and rural locations of many of the racing venues in Colorado, the MRA has had to be creative in finding new ways of bringing value and safety to its events. A collaboration with AMCN checks the ‘safety card’ in a new way for the club and can add a layer of security for those participants that want to pursue the idea of being ‘extra’ insured against a significant potential expense. The AMCN is in turn partnered with over 35 individual emergency helicopter service agencies across the nation that help to ensure their prime mission of immediate air lift response to emergency situations. The goal of this relationship is to help facilitate and provide group level pricing and the availability of air transport insurance for all motorcycling enthusiasts, club members, racing competitors, crews and visitors that wish to explore the option via the MRA group registration.
Smith brings more MotoGP pedigree to EWC as MOTO AIN’s determination is rewarded
*Yamaha-powered privateer team announces Bradley Smith for 24 Heures Motos bid
*Italian Corti and young French talent Perolami complete line-up for EWC opener
*Team boss Chapuis: “We have a very good trio of riders”
MOTO AIN is ready to race on in the FIM Endurance World Championship after securing a top trio of riders for the 2022 season-opening 24 Heures Motos led by former MotoGP racer Bradley Smith.
Briton Smith, who has never previously competed in an EWC day and night race, joins French promise Corentin Perolari and experienced Italian Claudio Corti in MOTO AIN’s new-look Formula EWC line-up.
The announcement, made following the Pre-Test for next month’s 24 Heures Motos at Le Mans this week, marks the end of a tough period for the French team, which stepped up to the EWC’s headlining category last season.
Pierre Chapuis, the MOTO AIN Team Director, explained: “Each year I try to progress. Last season we managed to pass the milestone of the EWC category with great results, including a second place at the Bol d’Or. But the EWC category is much more demanding than the Superstock category.
“This winter, everything was very, very complicated, the worst off-season since the creation of the team. But, fortunately, several members of the team supported me to continue the project in 2022 and partners such as Yamaha, Dafy and Ipone have also responded. I am really happy to have overcome all the obstacles to be on the starting line.”
Chapuis continued: “We have a very good trio of riders for the 24 Heures Motos. In the first tests the three riders lapped in the same second and all have a good rhythm. This allows us to develop the bike settings for all three riders at the same time. It’s very positive.
“We remain on the proven basis of the Yamaha R1 of last year. We know that we are lacking in pure performance, but with our limited resources as a private team, we have to make choices, and I prefer to bet on our strengths, which are consistency and reliability. We can’t wait to see what it can do on the track.”
EWC rookie Smith ready to do something “crazy”
Bradley Smith, a podium finisher in all four classes of Grand Prix motorcycle racing, won the EWC-counting Suzuka 8 Hours for Yamaha in 2015. A three-time winner in the 125cc World Championship, Smith has raced extensively on the Bugatti Circuit at Le Mans.
“I’ve been racing from a young age and for the past two decades, I‘ve been focused on reaching MotoGP, which is the ultimate racing championship,” said Smith, 31. “I am pretty happy with what I have achieved, but as a true lover of motorcycle racing, I also look around for other competitions. The 24 Heures Motos is one of the most famous endurance races around the world and the idea of racing for 24 hours non-stop seems to be a bit crazy if I’m honest. Last winter, when Pierre presented this opportunity to race at Le Mans, it caught my curiosity and I thought, ‘why not’? We have done several tests in Spain and the lap times were encouraging. The technical base of the Yamaha R1 is good, even if we miss some factory parts compared to our rivals. Fortunately, I’ve found some room in my diary, and I’m excited for this challenge. I’m sure it will be tough but also nice to experience the event for the first time. Even if I already know the track from racing in the French Grand Prix, everything else is going to be new for me.”
Corti set to achieve long-term aim with MOTO AIN
Like Bradley Smith, Claudio Corti has considerable experience at Grand Prix level having competed in Moto2 and MotoGP. While the 24 Heures Motos is an unknown quantity for the 34-year-old Italian, it’s a race he’s wanted to contest for a number of years.
“The 24 Heures Motos is such an iconic motorcycle event,” Corti said. “It has always been on my rider bucket list. Every rider should experience that, at least once in their lifetime and this is why I am very excited to race here. MOTO AIN is one of the best private teams, just behind the factory teams. It has provided a very competitive package for me. The R1 is reliable and safe. Even, if they are all volunteers, each member of the team is really committed to racing. I think we will be able to compete against the other private teams and not so far behind the factory one. As a team we will do our very best.”
Perolari continues MOTO AIN adventure
French talent Corentin Perolari, 23, is no stranger to MOTO AIN having contested last October’s 6 Hours of Most. He’s relishing the opportunity to work with two experienced riders. “I joined MOTO AIN for the last event of the 2021 season. The team was impressive with two ex-MotoGP riders, Randy de Puniet and Loris Baz. For 2022, it seemed difficult to do better and it is always complicated for a private team to bring in world-class endurance riders. You have to face refusals, find slots in the agendas, make compromises but never lose sight of your goal. Again, Pierre has taken up this challenge. As a rider, I appreciate this approach. I’m really happy to welcome Claudio and Bradley. They are experienced, fast and proven but they will have to discover 24-hour endurance racing, including riding at night, which is the great unknown. But we can’t wait to see what we can do on the Bugatti Circuit.”
While Corti and Perolari will race with MOTO AIN for the full EWC season, Smith’s agreement is currently for the 24 Heures Motos due to other scheduled commitments.
Calendar update: Date confirmed for the 2022 season finale in Phillip Island
WorldSBK returns to Australia for its final round from the 18th to the 20th of November
The Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit will host the 12th and final round of the 2022 MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship; with WorldSBK and WorldSSP taking to the track from the 18th to the 20th of November. The 2022 season will conclude with the only double header of the year, as the Australian Round will take place just one week after the Indonesian Round. It will be the first time since 2010 that the WorldSBK season has finished with back-to-back rounds, and the 11th time in the Championship’s history.
The iconic Phillip Island Circuit has featured on the WorldSBK calendar every year since 1990, aside from 1993 and last year due to the pandemic and has hosted the highest number of WorldSBK races (61 races). Phillip Island is now back on the calendar for 2022 and the whole WorldSBK paddock looks forward to returning to Australia for what promises to be a thrilling season finale. It will be the fourth time in the Championship’s 35-year history that Phillip Island welcome the season finale; the last time being in 1996. Beyond 2022, it is expected that the Australian Round will go back to its traditional slot in the calendar as the season opener.
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.
Eli Banish.
Eli Banish
Age: 13.
Current home: Burlington, Kentucky.
Current height/weight: 5’1”/118 pounds.
Current school grade level: 7th grade.
Began riding at age: 4 years.
First road race: 2017, Circleville, Ohio, Ohio Mini Road Racing League, Kids50, 4th place.
Current racebike: Honda NSF250R.
Current tuners/mechanics: Mark Junge, Rueben Frankenfield, Dave Swan.
Primary race series: British Talent Cup, North America Talent Cup, WERA.
Top sponsors: Dainese Chicago, Best Western Resorts & Hotels, Rising Sun Cycles, 57 Rider Development, POP Shadow Decals & Wraps, NGK Spark Plugs, HiFLo Filtro, Vortex Racing, Motul, 35 Motorsports, GP Motor Sales.
Recent racing accomplishments: 2021 season, won AMA Moto3 Expert Grand Championship, took 2nd in Formula Two WERA National Challenge Series Championship, won 8 WERA Sportsman Regional Class Championships (won 26 WERA races); 2020 season, won D Superbike Novice WERA Sportsman North Central Championship (won 6 WERA races); 2019 season, named AMA Youth Road Racer of the Year, won 5 WERA Sportsman Regional Championships in Novice classes (won 13 WERA races).
2022 racing goal: Have fun, build skills, finish on the British Talent Cup and the North America Talent Cup podium.
Racing career goal: Compete in the MotoGP World Championship.
Racing hero: Nicky Hayden.
Favorite track: Road Atlanta.
Favorite hobby: Mountain biking.
If I wasn’t racing I would be…: Riding mountain bikes.
Logistical issues oblige Argentina GP time schedule change
Thursday, 31 March 2022
Logistical issues affecting freight for the FIM MotoGP™ World Championship have obliged a schedule change for the upcoming Gran Prix of Argentina. Five cargo flights were scheduled to ship paddock material from Lombok, Indonesia, to Tucuman, close to Termas de Rio Hondo in Argentina, in the week following the Indonesian GP.
Due to two separate issues affecting two different flights, the final freight for the Argentina GP will now arrive in the country on Friday. The flight contains freight for all classes of the FIM MotoGP™ World Championship, with changes to the time schedule therefore obliged for all classes.
Free Practice sessions will now begin and take place for all classes on Saturday morning. Of the sessions that normally take place on Friday, only one has been cancelled, with the other moved to Saturday. Qualifying will take place on Saturday afternoon, with a slightly later start time.
Warm Up sessions on Sunday morning have been extended, with each race set to begin at the same start time as originally scheduled.
The trip from Lombok to Termas consisted of five flights. Three of the planned cargo routes took freight from Lombok to Tucuman via technical stops in Mombasa, Lagos and Brazil. The two other routes saw freight planned to travel from Lombok to Doha, Doha to Accra in Ghana and then on to Tucuman.
The chain of events started last Wednesday when one of the five airplanes suffered a problem during a technical stop in Mombasa, Kenya. The first plane which had already arrived in Tucuman was then returned to Lombok to collect more freight, and unfortunately has also suffered a technical problem during a layover this past Wednesday night.
As of Thursday morning local time in Argentina, one cargo load remains grounded in Mombasa, Kenya. The plane is awaiting a part in order to return to the air, with two parts – one dispatched from Europe and another back up part, dispatched from the Middle East – already en route.
The plane is expected to take off this evening and will follow the route from Mombasa via Lagos and Brazil, arriving in Tucuman on Friday.
Dorna and IRTA would like to thank the teams and paddock personnel for their effort and understanding, as well as the promoter of the Grand Prix of Argentina for their invaluable support and assistance.
We also would like to thank fans for their patience, both those in Argentina and those watching around the world, and we look forward to enjoying some fantastic track action and racing on Saturday and Sunday.
Please find (below) the new time schedule for the Gran Premio Michelin® de la Republica Argentina.
YART Yamaha Ready for 2022 Le Mans After Topping FIM EWC Test
The YART Yamaha EWC Team enjoyed a successful two days of testing at the Bugatti Circuit, as it gears up for the 2022 Le Mans 24 Heures Motos, the season opener of the FIM Endurance World Championship, which takes place on 16-17 April.
Marvin Fritz (7) on the YART Yamaha EWC Team YZF-R1. Photo courtesy Yamaha.
With riders Niccolò Canepa, Marvin Fritz, Karel Hanika, and reserve rider Robin Mulhauser, the Austrian outfit dominated the timings throughout the test, topping all four sessions and completing 264 laps of the 4.185 km circuit on board the #7 Yamaha R1 machine.
On the opening day, the YART Yamaha squad was fastest out of the blocks, setting a 1’35.807 lap time, which would give them the top spot by the end of the day. With 142 laps complete, the rain ended Tuesday’s running early but the riders were pleased with the set-up and electronic improvements.
The wet weather returned on Wednesday morning, but it provided a good opportunity for YART Yamaha to test the electronic package in the rain. They once again managed to go fastest in the morning session, and on the dry track in the afternoon the team could improve their fastest time to a 1’35.707, having run 122 laps.
The YART Yamaha squad will return to the Bugatti Circuit for another test just before the 45th edition of the Le Mans 24 Heures Motos.
Niccolò Canepa
YART Yamaha EWC Team Rider
“It went very well, we were on top in every session, dry and wet, so we are really confident. We had some improvements, trying new Brembo callipers and master cylinders that worked well. We worked a lot on the electronics and found some good engine brake settings. The lap times were really good, so I am looking forward to the first race of the season here.”
Marvin Fritz
YART Yamaha EWC Team Rider
“Today and yesterday went well, despite the weather. Conditions got a little hotter in the afternoon and it made it a bit difficult, but today we found some ways to improve this. We were very fast in the end and the team did a fantastic job to prepare the bike, while we also made some big step forwards with the electronics. Each of the riders did a great job as well. It couldn’t have gone much better and now we have to look forward to the race. We are prepared for all conditions and our lap times show that we’re in a good position, it could have been even faster, but we’re really happy.”
Karel Hanika
YART Yamaha EWC Team Rider
“The test was really good, great to be back here in Le Mans. It has felt like being at home since we arrived, and since the first day we’ve felt very good. We had to work on different set-ups with the tyres when the weather changes. It’s positive to be able to ride in both the wet and dry, and overall we made some steps especially with the electronics. There was some room to improve in that area and step-by-step we have reached our goals in the end. Really looking forward to the race weekend, my teammates did a great job, we improved our speed and I think we won every session. This shows our bike is working really well and the team are doing a great job. It was an important test, we still have a lot of work ahead to make sure we’re competitive across the weekend, but I can’t wait to get going.”
Robin Mulhauser
YART Yamaha EWC Team Reserve Rider
“I’m learning the bike and the team step-by-step, every component is very new for me. The package is just amazing, the tyres, suspension, electronics, the people working on the bike, it is all very professional and new for me. I’m getting used to it and I want to thank the team for the confidence they put in me, as well as my teammates for the help and tips they gave. I think the team is completely ready for the 24 Hours.”
Andrew Pitt
YART Yamaha EWC Team Crew Chief
“We had some mixed weather today, but yesterday in the better conditions the lap times were coming really easy, even with some issues we were working through. We were trying to identify which were the right tyres for the track temperatures, plus some things we had to improve with the electronics on the engine brake side, and traction control. We started with a wet track today, and we had a good feeling straightaway. When we went into the dry conditions, we were able to make some good steps and the riders were happy with everything. The track never actually completely dried out today, so the pace was very good considering this. The only thing left to do is the one-hour stints on the Tuesday test before the event, but all-in-all the riders are very happy and the pace is coming quick. The boys were fastest in all conditions, so I think this was a really useful test overall and bring on race week!”
More, from a press release issued by Team Suzuki Press Office:
POSITIVE LE MANS TEST FOR YOSHIMURA SERT MOTUL
Xavier Simeon (1) at speed on the Yoshimura SERT Motul Suzuki GSX-R1000. Photo courtesy Team Suzuki Press Office.
Reigning World Champion Yoshimura Suzuki Endurance Racing Team Motul have been on track at the Bugatti Circuit in France yesterday and today to test ahead the 24 Heures Motos on April 16th.
The team, which has won numerous races at the circuit, focused on technical innovations and learning about the new tyres supplied by Bridgestone.
Held behind closed doors, pre-Mans testing allows the various teams to work on the bike’s configuration, adapt new parts and get a feel for their bikes before the season-opening race.
After an outstanding 2021 season, there were no changes in the team. The #1 Suzuki GSX-R1000R is back with its three experienced riders Gregg Black, Sylvain Guintoli and Xavier Simeon. And even if they knew the track perfectly, the tricky weather conditions of the Sarthe region are always a source of learning.
The time spent on track was not for pure performance but for working on the race pace and adapting the settings to the new tyres. And for this, a first sunny day and then a second wet day perfectly simulated the changing weather conditions that could be expected during the 24 Heures Motos.
The consistency of the riders and the good impressions following the improvements developed in Japan were confirmed. But a crash by Black at the end of the first day prevented him riding the next day. Thanks to a sunny spell, Guintoli and Simeon improved the team’s time by setting the third fastest time of the second day of testing at 1’36’250.
Yoshimura SERT Motul, the winner of the 2021 24 Heures Motos, confirmed its ambitions to defend its title and to be at the front.
Yohei Kato – Team Director:
“We confirmed our pace on the first day by using the new features brought for the 2022 season. We are happy because everything works well on this track. Bridgestone provided us with new specification tyres, so we focused some of our work on that. Unfortunately Gregg suffered a heavy crash but should be fully recovered for the race. The rain on the second day allowed us to keep learning the tyres in more difficult conditions.”
Damien Saulnier – Team Manager:
“We had two completely different days with track conditions that are likely to be encountered during the race. During the first dry day, we were able to try a lot of things that Yoshimura had prepared during the winter tests with Kazuki Watanabe, which proved to be positive. The reunion with the whole team was very nice because we didn’t see each other all winter long! The only drawback of the day was Gregg’s fall at the end of the afternoon. Then the mixed weather conditions of the second day, with a greasy track in the morning, were used to prepare for the race. In particular, we worked on the usage limits of rain tyres and slicks and rotated the riders so that they could adapt to these delicate conditions. As the track dried at the end of the day, we were able to set some fast laps and improve on the previous day’s lap times.”
Sylvain Guintoli:
“It’s a good test for us. It was my first time on the bike since the final in Most (Czech Republic) so it was good to test the new stuff. We worked mainly on the new tyres and the rear of the bike. We are also happy that we could ride in all conditions; hot on the first day and wet/ dry on the second day to be ready for the race.”
Gregg Black:
“The first day went well, in dry conditions with sunshine. We were able to set good lap times on relay tyres, so in race conditions. We are quite satisfied with the new settings and the evolutions on the bike. It bodes well for the race. I had the only opportunity of the day to start on new tyres to do a fast lap but I had a high side between the Dunlop bend and the Chapelle corner. It was a pretty fast crash and then it started to rain. Having a little pain in my ankle I didn’t ride the second day to recover and be in shape for the race.”
Xavier Siméon:
“It was two very productive days for us! The weather conditions were peculiar; we were lucky to do the first day almost 100% dry but it was rather wet/ dry conditions for the second. We were able to validate a lot of things because in endurance racing, the race does not stop with the rain and we have to take the right decision at the right time. This test also confirms the good feeling we had in Almeria in February. The package is still very good and we are on the same wavelength with Sylvain and Gregg about the settings, so I think we are ready for the race. I can’t wait for it to start!”
More, from a press release issued by BMW Motorrad Motorsport:
BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team enters final phase of preparations for 2022 season of the FIM EWC with tests at Le Mans.
Markus Reiterberger, Ilya Mikhalchik, Jérémy Guarnoni and Kenny Foray take part in two days of testing with the #37 BMW M 1000 RR at Le Mans.
Season gets underway with the 24 Hours of Le Mans over Easter weekend.
Werner Daemen: “I think we are very well prepared for the race.”
Markus Reiterberger (37) on the BMW Motorrad Motorsport M 1000 RR. Photo courtesy BMW Motorrad Motorsport.
Le Mans. The countdown is on to the start of the 2022 season of the FIM Endurance World Championship (FIM EWC). BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team has started the final phase of preparations with two days of testing at Le Mans (FRA). The team and its four riders Markus Reiterberger (GER), Ilya Mikhalchik (UKR), Jérémy Guarnoni (FRA) and Kenny Foray (FRA) worked their way through an intensive testing programme with the #37 BMW M 1000 RR.
Over the winter break, BMW Motorrad Motorsport and BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team made further optimisations to the #37 BMW M 1000 RR in many areas. This improved the performance of the engine and optimised fuel consumption, which is key in endurance racing. There have also been innovations in terms of suspension, brakes and cooling. These various areas were evaluated in-depth during testing at Le Mans.
The 2022 season of the FIM EWC gets underway with the renowned 24 Hours of Le Mans (FRA) over the Easter weekend (16th/17th April). The 24 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps (BEL) is scheduled for 4th/5th June, and the 8 Hours of Suzuka (JPN) returns to the FIM EWC calendar on 7th August. The Bol d’Or at Le Castellet (FRA) will be held on 17th/18th September. A fifth race event is being planned.
Quotes after the Le Mans test. Werner Daemen, Team Manager BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team: “It was a really good test. We almost went through our full test programme. We did one very fast lap time but as always we mainly focused on long distance tests and we found everything we were looking for. We just had some minor technical issues that we could solve for the race weekend. We still have some small things to do in the free practice just before the race but in general I am happy with everything, including our new rider and new team members. The bikes were really well prepared by the technical crew – better than ever! Together with our tyre partner Dunlop and BMW power we are very happy and I think we are very well prepared for the race.”
Jérémy Guarnoni: “It has been really two good days of testing because we got some dry action but also rode in the wet. So we could try the bike in absolutely all conditions and that is really important in view of a 24-hour race. The bike was good in the wet and we have a great pace also in the dry. We still have some work to do, especially to prepare for the fast lap time in qualifying where we still have a lot of potential. Overall, I am happy with this test and I think the package riders, team and motorcycle can fight for the win. We just need to work a little bit more during race week and try to do our best.”
Markus Reiterberger: “It was great to be back at the race track with the entire team after the winter. It also was nice to ride the bike with what I think is the most stunning design we have ever had. Is has been two productive days. As expected, the weather was changeable but we were able to ride more in the dry than we thought. We started our test program yesterday in the dry, tested many parts and got mileage on them. We did a lot of set-up work overnight and were able to confirm that with a good feeling this morning in mixed conditions. We were always at the front on rain tyres, intermediates and slicks. But we didn’t go chasing times and then it started raining hard at the end. But we were at the forefront there, too. We have great pace and a good base to fight for victory here at Le Mans. We only have a few small things to work on, but we’ll use the time until the race. We definitely have a lot of potential and I’m looking forward to a great time in a few weeks.”
Ilya Mikhalchik: “It was a good test. Regarding the weather, we had all conditions, with wet, intermediate and dry so we could test things under all conditions. I felt quite good on the bike and we also made some steps from last year, especially in race trim so we are well prepared. Maybe we were not the fastest at this test but this is not the main thing at the moment. Now I am looking forward to return to Le Mans for the race weekend in a few weeks. We keep working and try to do our best.”
Kenny Foray: “The test was a good preparation for the 24-hour race and the season. There have been many further developments on the bike and it was good that we were able to try them in all conditions. It has been busy two days and we learnt and confirmed a lot. It was great to be back at the track with the team and my team-mates Markus, Ilya and Jérémy. Of course we still can improve in some areas and that will be our focus until the big race. I can’t wait to be back at Le Mans soon.”
More, from a press release issued by Honda Racing:
F.C.C. TSR Honda France fourth fastest at Le Mans test
The final countdown is underway to start the 2022 FIM Endurance World Championship. Honda’s endurance teams completed two days of testing at the Bugatti Circuit at Le Mans this week (29-30 March), with 48 teams attending the Pre-Test.
F.C.C. TSR Honda France, with the Frenchman Mike Di Meglio, Australian Josh Hook and the new British rider British Gino Rea who has joined the factory Honda team this season, clocked the fourth quickest time, with a lap time of 1:36.222 around the 4.185 kilometre French track.
It was a very positive test for the Honda team which collected valuable data regarding electronics, chassis and tyre settings with very consistent laps and good race pace.
With different weather conditions during the two days of testing, F.C.C. TSR Honda France topped the second-best time on day 1 aboard the CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP, on a cold and cloudy track.
On day 2, as morning sessions were in damp conditions left by overnight rain, the Honda #5 preferred to wait until the track was dried and tested during afternoon sessions, but the lap time was not improved, ending the Pre-test in fourth position.
Privateers RAC 41 Chromeburner, with a solid base for this season, same riders line up, Chris Leesch, Grégory Fastré and Wayne Tessels and same mechanics, ended the two-days test in sixth place on the timesheets in the Superstock category. The runner up team at the Bol d’Or race last season is very happy with the work done by the team, finding a good pace setting with Dunlop tyres in the Fireblade ready to fight for podiums this season.
Honda’s Superstock contenders National Motos, counts on a renewed three-rider line up, Swiss brothers Sebastien and Valentin Suchet and Frenchman Guillaume Raymond. The Honda #55 had some transponder issues during the test, but the French team had a good pace during both days of testing, and they will be targeting top positions in the Superstock category aboard the Fireblade SP.
Honda teams are ready to tackle the first race of the 2022 season, the 24 Heures Motos, which starts at 3 pm (CEST) on Saturday 16 April and finishes at 3 pm (CEST) on Sunday 17 April.
Gino Rea 5
F.C.C. TSR Honda France
”It has been a very positive test. Yesterday we did a lot of positive work on electronics, the chassis and tyre setting with different compounds for different conditions and got into work with the whole team. We are trying to do a consistent pace that is really good for us, and our race pace is very good. We are going in the right direction with the bike and looking forward to the race.”
Josh Hook 5
F.C.C. TSR Honda France
”It was a very good test for us. We were fast straight away with the Honda bike working very well with new Bridgestone tyres that seem to suit our bike better than last year. All three riders are very fast and consistent, and we can make a tyre last a long time. We are really looking forward to Le Mans race.”
Mike Di Meglio 5
F.C.C. TSR Honda France
”It was a very positive 2 days of testing; we worked a lot on the bike during the test with the electronics and the settings to find the correct information, and now we are ready for Le Mans 24 Heures.”
S&S Cycle Returns as Official Exhaust of Progressive AFT, Presenting Sponsor of Mission SuperTwins
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (March 30, 2022) – Progressive American Flat Track announced today that S&S Cycle will once again serve as the Official Exhaust of Progressive AFT as well as the presenting sponsor for the Mission SuperTwins presented by S&S Cycle class.
S&S Cycle was founded more than six decades ago by AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famer George J. Smith and Stanley Stankos with racing as its central focus. It’s been developing high-performance products for V-Twin motorcycles and winning championships ever since. S&S is now the most respected name in its market and a dominant force in Progressive AFT, as evidenced by the essential role it has played in the development of both the all-conquering Indian FTR750 and race-winning Royal Enfield Twins FT.
S&S Cycle seamlessly translates its racing superiority to the street by offering engine components, exhaust and fuel systems, engine upgrade kits, and complete engines for a variety of V-Twin makes and models.
“S&S Cycle is a proven innovator with a long history of success at the highest levels,” said Gene Crouch, COO of Progressive AFT. “We appreciate their continued support and investment of the series, and we’re pleased to have them as an integral partner as we continue to grow the fanbase of America’s Original Extreme Sport.”
S&S Cycle will again have a huge presence in the Progressive AFT paddock for competitors and fans alike. S&S has offered a race and championship contingency bonus package of $76,000 to qualifying racers for the 2022 season, while race fans will again be able to purchase select S&S apparel at Progressive AFT Merchandise stands.
“Proven Performance has been our battle cry for over six decades, and nothing proves it more than winning races,” said David Zemla, S&S Cycle VP Marketing. “We’re proud to support AFT and the Mission SuperTwins class for the 2022 season.”
ROYAL ENFIELD SLIDE SCHOOL BY MOTO ANATOMY 2022 SCHEDULE ANNOUNCED
New locations including Sturgis Motorcycle Rally and Carson City, Nevada, highlight the 2022 schedule for Royal Enfield Slide School by Moto Anatomy.
Milwaukee, WI (Wednesday, March 30, 2022) – Royal Enfield is proud to team up with Johnny Lewis and Moto Anatomy to offer Slide School once again for 2022. Now in its third year, the school, led by American Flat Track racer Johnny Lewis, provides a unique opportunity to learn the fundamental skills of flat track racing. From Carson City, Nevada, to Weedsport, New York, the Royal Enfield Slide School by Moto Anatomy will span the country, with several stops aligned with the 2022 Progressive American Flat Track Championship, as well as major events such as the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.
“This is our third year doing the Royal Enfield Slide School,” said Moto Anatomy’s Johnny Lewis. “It’s neat that we’ve been able to expand the schools, and add new stops. Flat tracking is hugely popular right now, and I love introducing people to the slide technique. It’s always fun to see the look on their faces when it all comes together. The slide is an art, and once you nail it, it’s hard to get away from that feeling!”
The Royal Enfield Slide School by Moto Anatomy introduces beginner to intermediate riders to the slide technique. The 3-hour course breaks down the same fundamentals used by professional riders in the AFT Championship, providing riders with the knowledge that could take them years to figure out on their own. Since 2020, Royal Enfield Slide School by Moto Anatomy has hosted hundreds of riders, and even traveled internationally. “We’re pushing close to our 400th student this year,” Lewis added. “It’s exciting to reach a milestone like that.”
This hands-on school puts riders aboard Royal Enfield FT 411 motorcycles. The Himalayan-based machines provide an ideal platform for flat track racing with a stable chassis and a tractable 411cc single-cylinder engine… and of course, no front brake!
“Flat track is a sport that is easy to ride, but hard to master,” explains Breeann Poland, Marketing and Communications Lead – Royal Enfield Americas. “Johnny Lewis does a great job of breaking down the steps to learning how to slide the bike into a 180-degree turn, the signature of flat track racing. We’re proud to partner with Johnny for another season of Slide Schools, and we look forward to visiting some new venues in 2022.”
See the 2022 Royal Enfield Slide School by Moto Anatomy schedule below. Specific dates and locations are subject to change. Visit the Moto Anatomy Slide School website for the most up-to-date information on the 2022 schedule, and for information on how to book your spot.
2022 Royal Enfield Slide School by Moto Anatomy
Apr 29 S&S CYCLE / Speed Ranch Viola, WI
Apr 30 S&S CYCLE / Speed Ranch Viola, WI
July 1 Weedsport Speedway Weedsport, NY
July 2 Weedsport Speedway Weedsport, NY
Aug 5 Black Hills Speedway Rapid City, SD
Aug 24 Carson City Outlaw Flat Track Carson City, NV
Aug 25 Carson City Outlaw Flat Track Carson City, NV
Aug 28* Carson City Outlaw Flat Track Carson City, NV
Oct 14* (Location TBD) Central Florida
Nov 25 Flat Track Futures Fall Classic Harrisburg, PA
Motorsport fans are once again gripped by racing fever in March! The start of the MotoGP season has provided the promise of a thrilling season ahead with numerous title contenders. A bit of patience is required until the riders return to Austria – but the Red Bull Ring is ready. In November 2021, Spielberg began rebuilding work to add a new layout option in close co-operation with the FIM, Dorna and FIA, and a few days ago it was completed. Famous race track developer Hermann Tilke planned the introduction of a chicane in the northwestern part of the track – primarily for motorcycling, whereas Formula 1 will keep on using the former layout. Don’t miss out on tickets for the first MotoGP on the new look track, the Motorcycle Grand Prix of Austria 2022 from August 19th to 21st August.
An overhead rendering of the new chicane installed between Turns One and Three at Red Bull Ring. Photo courtesy Red Bull Ring.
MORE ATTRACTIVENESS AND SAFETY FOR EVER FASTER RACE BIKES
To increase safety at the Red Bull Ring, especially in the premier motorcycle class, the top speed for race bikes will be diminished at the second turn. “Reduced speed was needed in MotoGP in this section of the track. This was achieved through the compact right-left combination which refrains from impacting the rest of the track. The planning was a real challenge due to the topography of the terrain, above all”, says Tilke. With comprehensive examinations, 15 drafts were made before the final layout concept envisaged the chicane as the ideal solution. The track planning is based on specific speed calculations, in which the dimensions of the run-off zones and the other safety facilities were accounted for.
Another rendering of the new chicane installed between Turns One and Three at Red Bull Ring. Photo courtesy Red Bull Ring.
90 DEGREE COMBINATION OFFERS INCREDIBLE RACING ACTION
Two 90-degree turns as part of a quick double apex chicane ensure for a real challenge that will test all the abilities of the MotoGP riders. The top motorcycle racing series is sure to become even more dramatic as a consequence with extra overtaking moves. The new layout option at the second turn is designed primarily for motorcycling. The usual track set-up has been retained so that two options are now available without any changes to the overall character of the turns. The Red Bull Ring continues to have ten turns.
The fans need a little patience before the new chicane serves up thrilling MotoGP racing at the Red Bull Ring on August 21st. One thing will not be changing – the side programme in Spielberg between sessions of the elite motorcycle racing series. Entertainment is in store at the Spielberg MotoGP Bike City with live acts and stunt shows. The Flying Bulls will also hold breathtaking air displays high above the race track. All the information on the “Motorrad Grand Prix von Österreich 2022” and tickets for the MotoGP highlight in Spielberg can be found on www.redbullring.com/tickets.
AHRMA Classic MotoFest™ in the Heartland Returns with Flat Track Racing
AHRMA brings Flat Track motorcycle racing to the AHRMA Classic MotoFest™ in the Heartland
(March 30, 2022, Elora, Tennessee) – AHRMA Classic MotoFest™ in the Heartland is returning to Kansas and bringing vintage flat track racing along with their exciting road racing and off-road programs.
The American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association (AHRMA) in association with Bridgestone Tires, Underground Team Racing (UTR)/Kansas811 and Laroque Motorsports have confirmed that tickets are now available for online advance purchase for the May 27-29, 2022, event at ahrma.org/ahrma-classic-motofest-heartland/.
Spectators may purchase tickets plus reserve a variety of camping options, including trackside 30-amp and 50-amp RV sites. Race fans under age 15 will have free admission with an adult ticket purchase.
This year, AHRMA also brings flat track motorcycle racing to Topeka on Saturday evening May 28th at 6pm, following the road racing events.
A 1/6th mile track, located on the blacktop skid pad, promises fast short-track action.
Richard Brodock, AHRMA Dirt Track Coordinator said, “There won’t be a bad seat in the house with viewing almost 360 degrees around the track.”
For more information about the flat track racing or to volunteer, please contact Richard Brodock at [email protected]
For general questions contact the AHRMA Classic MotoFest™ in the Heartland event coordinator Jim Doyle by emailing [email protected].
ABOUT HEARTLAND:
Heartland Motorsports Park stands out as one of the world’s finest, multi-purpose racing and entertainment destinations. Located on the south side of Topeka, KS, the facility covers approximately 650 acres and provides ample room for its many racing and motorsports venues.
First opened in 1989, today’s facility features a championship, NHRA-sanctioned 1/4-mile drag strip, four-level sponsor-suite tower, a 2.5-mile road course with four different configurations, a 22-acre asphalt pad for autocross and drift events and a motocross track designed to host AHRMA type events.
The 23-acre paddock area features a mix of asphalt parking and access roads as well as grass parking and camping areas for car shows, swap meets and other large footprint events.
ABOUT AHRMA:
AHRMA (American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to preserving, restoring, and competing on historic motorcycles. With more than 3,300 members, AHRMA is the leading historic motorcycle racing group in North America and one of the largest in the world. The association’s enthusiastic membership reflects this country’s strong interest in classic bikes.
MRA crash cart and equipment supervisor Dakota Bell at work during an MRA event at High Plains Raceway. Photo courtesy MRA.
The Motorcycle Roadracing Association (MRA) proudly announces a full collaboration and partnership with the AirMedCare Network. The AirMedCare Network is an emergency medical assistance provider specializing in emergency helicopter transportation. With the remote and rural locations of many of the racing venues in Colorado, the MRA has had to be creative in finding new ways of bringing value and safety to its events. A collaboration with AMCN checks the ‘safety card’ in a new way for the club and can add a layer of security for those participants that want to pursue the idea of being ‘extra’ insured against a significant potential expense. The AMCN is in turn partnered with over 35 individual emergency helicopter service agencies across the nation that help to ensure their prime mission of immediate air lift response to emergency situations. The goal of this relationship is to help facilitate and provide group level pricing and the availability of air transport insurance for all motorcycling enthusiasts, club members, racing competitors, crews and visitors that wish to explore the option via the MRA group registration.
Bradley Smith (96) at speed on the MOTO AIN Yamaha YZF-R1 during a test at Le Mans. Photo courtesy EWC Press Office.
Smith brings more MotoGP pedigree to EWC as MOTO AIN’s determination is rewarded
*Yamaha-powered privateer team announces Bradley Smith for 24 Heures Motos bid
*Italian Corti and young French talent Perolami complete line-up for EWC opener
*Team boss Chapuis: “We have a very good trio of riders”
MOTO AIN is ready to race on in the FIM Endurance World Championship after securing a top trio of riders for the 2022 season-opening 24 Heures Motos led by former MotoGP racer Bradley Smith.
Briton Smith, who has never previously competed in an EWC day and night race, joins French promise Corentin Perolari and experienced Italian Claudio Corti in MOTO AIN’s new-look Formula EWC line-up.
The announcement, made following the Pre-Test for next month’s 24 Heures Motos at Le Mans this week, marks the end of a tough period for the French team, which stepped up to the EWC’s headlining category last season.
Pierre Chapuis, the MOTO AIN Team Director, explained: “Each year I try to progress. Last season we managed to pass the milestone of the EWC category with great results, including a second place at the Bol d’Or. But the EWC category is much more demanding than the Superstock category.
“This winter, everything was very, very complicated, the worst off-season since the creation of the team. But, fortunately, several members of the team supported me to continue the project in 2022 and partners such as Yamaha, Dafy and Ipone have also responded. I am really happy to have overcome all the obstacles to be on the starting line.”
Chapuis continued: “We have a very good trio of riders for the 24 Heures Motos. In the first tests the three riders lapped in the same second and all have a good rhythm. This allows us to develop the bike settings for all three riders at the same time. It’s very positive.
“We remain on the proven basis of the Yamaha R1 of last year. We know that we are lacking in pure performance, but with our limited resources as a private team, we have to make choices, and I prefer to bet on our strengths, which are consistency and reliability. We can’t wait to see what it can do on the track.”
EWC rookie Smith ready to do something “crazy”
Bradley Smith, a podium finisher in all four classes of Grand Prix motorcycle racing, won the EWC-counting Suzuka 8 Hours for Yamaha in 2015. A three-time winner in the 125cc World Championship, Smith has raced extensively on the Bugatti Circuit at Le Mans.
“I’ve been racing from a young age and for the past two decades, I‘ve been focused on reaching MotoGP, which is the ultimate racing championship,” said Smith, 31. “I am pretty happy with what I have achieved, but as a true lover of motorcycle racing, I also look around for other competitions. The 24 Heures Motos is one of the most famous endurance races around the world and the idea of racing for 24 hours non-stop seems to be a bit crazy if I’m honest. Last winter, when Pierre presented this opportunity to race at Le Mans, it caught my curiosity and I thought, ‘why not’? We have done several tests in Spain and the lap times were encouraging. The technical base of the Yamaha R1 is good, even if we miss some factory parts compared to our rivals. Fortunately, I’ve found some room in my diary, and I’m excited for this challenge. I’m sure it will be tough but also nice to experience the event for the first time. Even if I already know the track from racing in the French Grand Prix, everything else is going to be new for me.”
Corti set to achieve long-term aim with MOTO AIN
Like Bradley Smith, Claudio Corti has considerable experience at Grand Prix level having competed in Moto2 and MotoGP. While the 24 Heures Motos is an unknown quantity for the 34-year-old Italian, it’s a race he’s wanted to contest for a number of years.
“The 24 Heures Motos is such an iconic motorcycle event,” Corti said. “It has always been on my rider bucket list. Every rider should experience that, at least once in their lifetime and this is why I am very excited to race here. MOTO AIN is one of the best private teams, just behind the factory teams. It has provided a very competitive package for me. The R1 is reliable and safe. Even, if they are all volunteers, each member of the team is really committed to racing. I think we will be able to compete against the other private teams and not so far behind the factory one. As a team we will do our very best.”
Perolari continues MOTO AIN adventure
French talent Corentin Perolari, 23, is no stranger to MOTO AIN having contested last October’s 6 Hours of Most. He’s relishing the opportunity to work with two experienced riders. “I joined MOTO AIN for the last event of the 2021 season. The team was impressive with two ex-MotoGP riders, Randy de Puniet and Loris Baz. For 2022, it seemed difficult to do better and it is always complicated for a private team to bring in world-class endurance riders. You have to face refusals, find slots in the agendas, make compromises but never lose sight of your goal. Again, Pierre has taken up this challenge. As a rider, I appreciate this approach. I’m really happy to welcome Claudio and Bradley. They are experienced, fast and proven but they will have to discover 24-hour endurance racing, including riding at night, which is the great unknown. But we can’t wait to see what we can do on the Bugatti Circuit.”
While Corti and Perolari will race with MOTO AIN for the full EWC season, Smith’s agreement is currently for the 24 Heures Motos due to other scheduled commitments.
The start of a World Superbike race at Phillip Island in 2019. Photo courtesy of Dorna WorldSBK Press Office.
Calendar update: Date confirmed for the 2022 season finale in Phillip Island
WorldSBK returns to Australia for its final round from the 18th to the 20th of November
The Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit will host the 12th and final round of the 2022 MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship; with WorldSBK and WorldSSP taking to the track from the 18th to the 20th of November. The 2022 season will conclude with the only double header of the year, as the Australian Round will take place just one week after the Indonesian Round. It will be the first time since 2010 that the WorldSBK season has finished with back-to-back rounds, and the 11th time in the Championship’s history.
The iconic Phillip Island Circuit has featured on the WorldSBK calendar every year since 1990, aside from 1993 and last year due to the pandemic and has hosted the highest number of WorldSBK races (61 races). Phillip Island is now back on the calendar for 2022 and the whole WorldSBK paddock looks forward to returning to Australia for what promises to be a thrilling season finale. It will be the fourth time in the Championship’s 35-year history that Phillip Island welcome the season finale; the last time being in 1996. Beyond 2022, it is expected that the Australian Round will go back to its traditional slot in the calendar as the season opener.
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.
Eli Banish.
Eli Banish
Age: 13.
Current home: Burlington, Kentucky.
Current height/weight: 5’1”/118 pounds.
Current school grade level: 7th grade.
Began riding at age: 4 years.
First road race: 2017, Circleville, Ohio, Ohio Mini Road Racing League, Kids50, 4th place.
Current racebike: Honda NSF250R.
Current tuners/mechanics: Mark Junge, Rueben Frankenfield, Dave Swan.
Primary race series: British Talent Cup, North America Talent Cup, WERA.
Top sponsors: Dainese Chicago, Best Western Resorts & Hotels, Rising Sun Cycles, 57 Rider Development, POP Shadow Decals & Wraps, NGK Spark Plugs, HiFLo Filtro, Vortex Racing, Motul, 35 Motorsports, GP Motor Sales.
Recent racing accomplishments: 2021 season, won AMA Moto3 Expert Grand Championship, took 2nd in Formula Two WERA National Challenge Series Championship, won 8 WERA Sportsman Regional Class Championships (won 26 WERA races); 2020 season, won D Superbike Novice WERA Sportsman North Central Championship (won 6 WERA races); 2019 season, named AMA Youth Road Racer of the Year, won 5 WERA Sportsman Regional Championships in Novice classes (won 13 WERA races).
2022 racing goal: Have fun, build skills, finish on the British Talent Cup and the North America Talent Cup podium.
Racing career goal: Compete in the MotoGP World Championship.
Racing hero: Nicky Hayden.
Favorite track: Road Atlanta.
Favorite hobby: Mountain biking.
If I wasn’t racing I would be…: Riding mountain bikes.
Crated MotoGP racebikes and equipment being offloaded from a cargo plane in Spain back in 2020. Photo courtesy of Dorna.
Logistical issues oblige Argentina GP time schedule change
Thursday, 31 March 2022
Logistical issues affecting freight for the FIM MotoGP™ World Championship have obliged a schedule change for the upcoming Gran Prix of Argentina. Five cargo flights were scheduled to ship paddock material from Lombok, Indonesia, to Tucuman, close to Termas de Rio Hondo in Argentina, in the week following the Indonesian GP.
Due to two separate issues affecting two different flights, the final freight for the Argentina GP will now arrive in the country on Friday. The flight contains freight for all classes of the FIM MotoGP™ World Championship, with changes to the time schedule therefore obliged for all classes.
Free Practice sessions will now begin and take place for all classes on Saturday morning. Of the sessions that normally take place on Friday, only one has been cancelled, with the other moved to Saturday. Qualifying will take place on Saturday afternoon, with a slightly later start time.
Warm Up sessions on Sunday morning have been extended, with each race set to begin at the same start time as originally scheduled.
The trip from Lombok to Termas consisted of five flights. Three of the planned cargo routes took freight from Lombok to Tucuman via technical stops in Mombasa, Lagos and Brazil. The two other routes saw freight planned to travel from Lombok to Doha, Doha to Accra in Ghana and then on to Tucuman.
The chain of events started last Wednesday when one of the five airplanes suffered a problem during a technical stop in Mombasa, Kenya. The first plane which had already arrived in Tucuman was then returned to Lombok to collect more freight, and unfortunately has also suffered a technical problem during a layover this past Wednesday night.
As of Thursday morning local time in Argentina, one cargo load remains grounded in Mombasa, Kenya. The plane is awaiting a part in order to return to the air, with two parts – one dispatched from Europe and another back up part, dispatched from the Middle East – already en route.
The plane is expected to take off this evening and will follow the route from Mombasa via Lagos and Brazil, arriving in Tucuman on Friday.
Dorna and IRTA would like to thank the teams and paddock personnel for their effort and understanding, as well as the promoter of the Grand Prix of Argentina for their invaluable support and assistance.
We also would like to thank fans for their patience, both those in Argentina and those watching around the world, and we look forward to enjoying some fantastic track action and racing on Saturday and Sunday.
Please find (below) the new time schedule for the Gran Premio Michelin® de la Republica Argentina.
Yoshimura SERT Motul (1) leads a group of riders during testing at the Bugatti Circuit in Le Mans, France. Photo courtesy Team Suzuki Press Office.
YART Yamaha Ready for 2022 Le Mans After Topping FIM EWC Test
The YART Yamaha EWC Team enjoyed a successful two days of testing at the Bugatti Circuit, as it gears up for the 2022 Le Mans 24 Heures Motos, the season opener of the FIM Endurance World Championship, which takes place on 16-17 April.
Marvin Fritz (7) on the YART Yamaha EWC Team YZF-R1. Photo courtesy Yamaha.
With riders Niccolò Canepa, Marvin Fritz, Karel Hanika, and reserve rider Robin Mulhauser, the Austrian outfit dominated the timings throughout the test, topping all four sessions and completing 264 laps of the 4.185 km circuit on board the #7 Yamaha R1 machine.
On the opening day, the YART Yamaha squad was fastest out of the blocks, setting a 1’35.807 lap time, which would give them the top spot by the end of the day. With 142 laps complete, the rain ended Tuesday’s running early but the riders were pleased with the set-up and electronic improvements.
The wet weather returned on Wednesday morning, but it provided a good opportunity for YART Yamaha to test the electronic package in the rain. They once again managed to go fastest in the morning session, and on the dry track in the afternoon the team could improve their fastest time to a 1’35.707, having run 122 laps.
The YART Yamaha squad will return to the Bugatti Circuit for another test just before the 45th edition of the Le Mans 24 Heures Motos.
Niccolò Canepa
YART Yamaha EWC Team Rider
“It went very well, we were on top in every session, dry and wet, so we are really confident. We had some improvements, trying new Brembo callipers and master cylinders that worked well. We worked a lot on the electronics and found some good engine brake settings. The lap times were really good, so I am looking forward to the first race of the season here.”
Marvin Fritz
YART Yamaha EWC Team Rider
“Today and yesterday went well, despite the weather. Conditions got a little hotter in the afternoon and it made it a bit difficult, but today we found some ways to improve this. We were very fast in the end and the team did a fantastic job to prepare the bike, while we also made some big step forwards with the electronics. Each of the riders did a great job as well. It couldn’t have gone much better and now we have to look forward to the race. We are prepared for all conditions and our lap times show that we’re in a good position, it could have been even faster, but we’re really happy.”
Karel Hanika
YART Yamaha EWC Team Rider
“The test was really good, great to be back here in Le Mans. It has felt like being at home since we arrived, and since the first day we’ve felt very good. We had to work on different set-ups with the tyres when the weather changes. It’s positive to be able to ride in both the wet and dry, and overall we made some steps especially with the electronics. There was some room to improve in that area and step-by-step we have reached our goals in the end. Really looking forward to the race weekend, my teammates did a great job, we improved our speed and I think we won every session. This shows our bike is working really well and the team are doing a great job. It was an important test, we still have a lot of work ahead to make sure we’re competitive across the weekend, but I can’t wait to get going.”
Robin Mulhauser
YART Yamaha EWC Team Reserve Rider
“I’m learning the bike and the team step-by-step, every component is very new for me. The package is just amazing, the tyres, suspension, electronics, the people working on the bike, it is all very professional and new for me. I’m getting used to it and I want to thank the team for the confidence they put in me, as well as my teammates for the help and tips they gave. I think the team is completely ready for the 24 Hours.”
Andrew Pitt
YART Yamaha EWC Team Crew Chief
“We had some mixed weather today, but yesterday in the better conditions the lap times were coming really easy, even with some issues we were working through. We were trying to identify which were the right tyres for the track temperatures, plus some things we had to improve with the electronics on the engine brake side, and traction control. We started with a wet track today, and we had a good feeling straightaway. When we went into the dry conditions, we were able to make some good steps and the riders were happy with everything. The track never actually completely dried out today, so the pace was very good considering this. The only thing left to do is the one-hour stints on the Tuesday test before the event, but all-in-all the riders are very happy and the pace is coming quick. The boys were fastest in all conditions, so I think this was a really useful test overall and bring on race week!”
More, from a press release issued by Team Suzuki Press Office:
POSITIVE LE MANS TEST FOR YOSHIMURA SERT MOTUL
Xavier Simeon (1) at speed on the Yoshimura SERT Motul Suzuki GSX-R1000. Photo courtesy Team Suzuki Press Office.
Reigning World Champion Yoshimura Suzuki Endurance Racing Team Motul have been on track at the Bugatti Circuit in France yesterday and today to test ahead the 24 Heures Motos on April 16th.
The team, which has won numerous races at the circuit, focused on technical innovations and learning about the new tyres supplied by Bridgestone.
Held behind closed doors, pre-Mans testing allows the various teams to work on the bike’s configuration, adapt new parts and get a feel for their bikes before the season-opening race.
After an outstanding 2021 season, there were no changes in the team. The #1 Suzuki GSX-R1000R is back with its three experienced riders Gregg Black, Sylvain Guintoli and Xavier Simeon. And even if they knew the track perfectly, the tricky weather conditions of the Sarthe region are always a source of learning.
The time spent on track was not for pure performance but for working on the race pace and adapting the settings to the new tyres. And for this, a first sunny day and then a second wet day perfectly simulated the changing weather conditions that could be expected during the 24 Heures Motos.
The consistency of the riders and the good impressions following the improvements developed in Japan were confirmed. But a crash by Black at the end of the first day prevented him riding the next day. Thanks to a sunny spell, Guintoli and Simeon improved the team’s time by setting the third fastest time of the second day of testing at 1’36’250.
Yoshimura SERT Motul, the winner of the 2021 24 Heures Motos, confirmed its ambitions to defend its title and to be at the front.
Yohei Kato – Team Director:
“We confirmed our pace on the first day by using the new features brought for the 2022 season. We are happy because everything works well on this track. Bridgestone provided us with new specification tyres, so we focused some of our work on that. Unfortunately Gregg suffered a heavy crash but should be fully recovered for the race. The rain on the second day allowed us to keep learning the tyres in more difficult conditions.”
Damien Saulnier – Team Manager:
“We had two completely different days with track conditions that are likely to be encountered during the race. During the first dry day, we were able to try a lot of things that Yoshimura had prepared during the winter tests with Kazuki Watanabe, which proved to be positive. The reunion with the whole team was very nice because we didn’t see each other all winter long! The only drawback of the day was Gregg’s fall at the end of the afternoon. Then the mixed weather conditions of the second day, with a greasy track in the morning, were used to prepare for the race. In particular, we worked on the usage limits of rain tyres and slicks and rotated the riders so that they could adapt to these delicate conditions. As the track dried at the end of the day, we were able to set some fast laps and improve on the previous day’s lap times.”
Sylvain Guintoli:
“It’s a good test for us. It was my first time on the bike since the final in Most (Czech Republic) so it was good to test the new stuff. We worked mainly on the new tyres and the rear of the bike. We are also happy that we could ride in all conditions; hot on the first day and wet/ dry on the second day to be ready for the race.”
Gregg Black:
“The first day went well, in dry conditions with sunshine. We were able to set good lap times on relay tyres, so in race conditions. We are quite satisfied with the new settings and the evolutions on the bike. It bodes well for the race. I had the only opportunity of the day to start on new tyres to do a fast lap but I had a high side between the Dunlop bend and the Chapelle corner. It was a pretty fast crash and then it started to rain. Having a little pain in my ankle I didn’t ride the second day to recover and be in shape for the race.”
Xavier Siméon:
“It was two very productive days for us! The weather conditions were peculiar; we were lucky to do the first day almost 100% dry but it was rather wet/ dry conditions for the second. We were able to validate a lot of things because in endurance racing, the race does not stop with the rain and we have to take the right decision at the right time. This test also confirms the good feeling we had in Almeria in February. The package is still very good and we are on the same wavelength with Sylvain and Gregg about the settings, so I think we are ready for the race. I can’t wait for it to start!”
More, from a press release issued by BMW Motorrad Motorsport:
BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team enters final phase of preparations for 2022 season of the FIM EWC with tests at Le Mans.
Markus Reiterberger, Ilya Mikhalchik, Jérémy Guarnoni and Kenny Foray take part in two days of testing with the #37 BMW M 1000 RR at Le Mans.
Season gets underway with the 24 Hours of Le Mans over Easter weekend.
Werner Daemen: “I think we are very well prepared for the race.”
Markus Reiterberger (37) on the BMW Motorrad Motorsport M 1000 RR. Photo courtesy BMW Motorrad Motorsport.
Le Mans. The countdown is on to the start of the 2022 season of the FIM Endurance World Championship (FIM EWC). BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team has started the final phase of preparations with two days of testing at Le Mans (FRA). The team and its four riders Markus Reiterberger (GER), Ilya Mikhalchik (UKR), Jérémy Guarnoni (FRA) and Kenny Foray (FRA) worked their way through an intensive testing programme with the #37 BMW M 1000 RR.
Over the winter break, BMW Motorrad Motorsport and BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team made further optimisations to the #37 BMW M 1000 RR in many areas. This improved the performance of the engine and optimised fuel consumption, which is key in endurance racing. There have also been innovations in terms of suspension, brakes and cooling. These various areas were evaluated in-depth during testing at Le Mans.
The 2022 season of the FIM EWC gets underway with the renowned 24 Hours of Le Mans (FRA) over the Easter weekend (16th/17th April). The 24 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps (BEL) is scheduled for 4th/5th June, and the 8 Hours of Suzuka (JPN) returns to the FIM EWC calendar on 7th August. The Bol d’Or at Le Castellet (FRA) will be held on 17th/18th September. A fifth race event is being planned.
Quotes after the Le Mans test. Werner Daemen, Team Manager BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team: “It was a really good test. We almost went through our full test programme. We did one very fast lap time but as always we mainly focused on long distance tests and we found everything we were looking for. We just had some minor technical issues that we could solve for the race weekend. We still have some small things to do in the free practice just before the race but in general I am happy with everything, including our new rider and new team members. The bikes were really well prepared by the technical crew – better than ever! Together with our tyre partner Dunlop and BMW power we are very happy and I think we are very well prepared for the race.”
Jérémy Guarnoni: “It has been really two good days of testing because we got some dry action but also rode in the wet. So we could try the bike in absolutely all conditions and that is really important in view of a 24-hour race. The bike was good in the wet and we have a great pace also in the dry. We still have some work to do, especially to prepare for the fast lap time in qualifying where we still have a lot of potential. Overall, I am happy with this test and I think the package riders, team and motorcycle can fight for the win. We just need to work a little bit more during race week and try to do our best.”
Markus Reiterberger: “It was great to be back at the race track with the entire team after the winter. It also was nice to ride the bike with what I think is the most stunning design we have ever had. Is has been two productive days. As expected, the weather was changeable but we were able to ride more in the dry than we thought. We started our test program yesterday in the dry, tested many parts and got mileage on them. We did a lot of set-up work overnight and were able to confirm that with a good feeling this morning in mixed conditions. We were always at the front on rain tyres, intermediates and slicks. But we didn’t go chasing times and then it started raining hard at the end. But we were at the forefront there, too. We have great pace and a good base to fight for victory here at Le Mans. We only have a few small things to work on, but we’ll use the time until the race. We definitely have a lot of potential and I’m looking forward to a great time in a few weeks.”
Ilya Mikhalchik: “It was a good test. Regarding the weather, we had all conditions, with wet, intermediate and dry so we could test things under all conditions. I felt quite good on the bike and we also made some steps from last year, especially in race trim so we are well prepared. Maybe we were not the fastest at this test but this is not the main thing at the moment. Now I am looking forward to return to Le Mans for the race weekend in a few weeks. We keep working and try to do our best.”
Kenny Foray: “The test was a good preparation for the 24-hour race and the season. There have been many further developments on the bike and it was good that we were able to try them in all conditions. It has been busy two days and we learnt and confirmed a lot. It was great to be back at the track with the team and my team-mates Markus, Ilya and Jérémy. Of course we still can improve in some areas and that will be our focus until the big race. I can’t wait to be back at Le Mans soon.”
More, from a press release issued by Honda Racing:
F.C.C. TSR Honda France fourth fastest at Le Mans test
The final countdown is underway to start the 2022 FIM Endurance World Championship. Honda’s endurance teams completed two days of testing at the Bugatti Circuit at Le Mans this week (29-30 March), with 48 teams attending the Pre-Test.
F.C.C. TSR Honda France, with the Frenchman Mike Di Meglio, Australian Josh Hook and the new British rider British Gino Rea who has joined the factory Honda team this season, clocked the fourth quickest time, with a lap time of 1:36.222 around the 4.185 kilometre French track.
It was a very positive test for the Honda team which collected valuable data regarding electronics, chassis and tyre settings with very consistent laps and good race pace.
With different weather conditions during the two days of testing, F.C.C. TSR Honda France topped the second-best time on day 1 aboard the CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP, on a cold and cloudy track.
On day 2, as morning sessions were in damp conditions left by overnight rain, the Honda #5 preferred to wait until the track was dried and tested during afternoon sessions, but the lap time was not improved, ending the Pre-test in fourth position.
Privateers RAC 41 Chromeburner, with a solid base for this season, same riders line up, Chris Leesch, Grégory Fastré and Wayne Tessels and same mechanics, ended the two-days test in sixth place on the timesheets in the Superstock category. The runner up team at the Bol d’Or race last season is very happy with the work done by the team, finding a good pace setting with Dunlop tyres in the Fireblade ready to fight for podiums this season.
Honda’s Superstock contenders National Motos, counts on a renewed three-rider line up, Swiss brothers Sebastien and Valentin Suchet and Frenchman Guillaume Raymond. The Honda #55 had some transponder issues during the test, but the French team had a good pace during both days of testing, and they will be targeting top positions in the Superstock category aboard the Fireblade SP.
Honda teams are ready to tackle the first race of the 2022 season, the 24 Heures Motos, which starts at 3 pm (CEST) on Saturday 16 April and finishes at 3 pm (CEST) on Sunday 17 April.
Gino Rea 5
F.C.C. TSR Honda France
”It has been a very positive test. Yesterday we did a lot of positive work on electronics, the chassis and tyre setting with different compounds for different conditions and got into work with the whole team. We are trying to do a consistent pace that is really good for us, and our race pace is very good. We are going in the right direction with the bike and looking forward to the race.”
Josh Hook 5
F.C.C. TSR Honda France
”It was a very good test for us. We were fast straight away with the Honda bike working very well with new Bridgestone tyres that seem to suit our bike better than last year. All three riders are very fast and consistent, and we can make a tyre last a long time. We are really looking forward to Le Mans race.”
Mike Di Meglio 5
F.C.C. TSR Honda France
”It was a very positive 2 days of testing; we worked a lot on the bike during the test with the electronics and the settings to find the correct information, and now we are ready for Le Mans 24 Heures.”
S&S Cycle has been named the Official Exhaust of Progressive AFT as well as the presenting sponsor for the Mission SuperTwins presented by S&S Cycle class. Photo courtesy AFT.
S&S Cycle Returns as Official Exhaust of Progressive AFT, Presenting Sponsor of Mission SuperTwins
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (March 30, 2022) – Progressive American Flat Track announced today that S&S Cycle will once again serve as the Official Exhaust of Progressive AFT as well as the presenting sponsor for the Mission SuperTwins presented by S&S Cycle class.
S&S Cycle was founded more than six decades ago by AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famer George J. Smith and Stanley Stankos with racing as its central focus. It’s been developing high-performance products for V-Twin motorcycles and winning championships ever since. S&S is now the most respected name in its market and a dominant force in Progressive AFT, as evidenced by the essential role it has played in the development of both the all-conquering Indian FTR750 and race-winning Royal Enfield Twins FT.
S&S Cycle seamlessly translates its racing superiority to the street by offering engine components, exhaust and fuel systems, engine upgrade kits, and complete engines for a variety of V-Twin makes and models.
“S&S Cycle is a proven innovator with a long history of success at the highest levels,” said Gene Crouch, COO of Progressive AFT. “We appreciate their continued support and investment of the series, and we’re pleased to have them as an integral partner as we continue to grow the fanbase of America’s Original Extreme Sport.”
S&S Cycle will again have a huge presence in the Progressive AFT paddock for competitors and fans alike. S&S has offered a race and championship contingency bonus package of $76,000 to qualifying racers for the 2022 season, while race fans will again be able to purchase select S&S apparel at Progressive AFT Merchandise stands.
“Proven Performance has been our battle cry for over six decades, and nothing proves it more than winning races,” said David Zemla, S&S Cycle VP Marketing. “We’re proud to support AFT and the Mission SuperTwins class for the 2022 season.”
A student in action at a Royal Enfield Slide School by Moto Anatomy. Photo courtesy Royal Enfield North America.
ROYAL ENFIELD SLIDE SCHOOL BY MOTO ANATOMY 2022 SCHEDULE ANNOUNCED
New locations including Sturgis Motorcycle Rally and Carson City, Nevada, highlight the 2022 schedule for Royal Enfield Slide School by Moto Anatomy.
Milwaukee, WI (Wednesday, March 30, 2022) – Royal Enfield is proud to team up with Johnny Lewis and Moto Anatomy to offer Slide School once again for 2022. Now in its third year, the school, led by American Flat Track racer Johnny Lewis, provides a unique opportunity to learn the fundamental skills of flat track racing. From Carson City, Nevada, to Weedsport, New York, the Royal Enfield Slide School by Moto Anatomy will span the country, with several stops aligned with the 2022 Progressive American Flat Track Championship, as well as major events such as the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.
“This is our third year doing the Royal Enfield Slide School,” said Moto Anatomy’s Johnny Lewis. “It’s neat that we’ve been able to expand the schools, and add new stops. Flat tracking is hugely popular right now, and I love introducing people to the slide technique. It’s always fun to see the look on their faces when it all comes together. The slide is an art, and once you nail it, it’s hard to get away from that feeling!”
The Royal Enfield Slide School by Moto Anatomy introduces beginner to intermediate riders to the slide technique. The 3-hour course breaks down the same fundamentals used by professional riders in the AFT Championship, providing riders with the knowledge that could take them years to figure out on their own. Since 2020, Royal Enfield Slide School by Moto Anatomy has hosted hundreds of riders, and even traveled internationally. “We’re pushing close to our 400th student this year,” Lewis added. “It’s exciting to reach a milestone like that.”
This hands-on school puts riders aboard Royal Enfield FT 411 motorcycles. The Himalayan-based machines provide an ideal platform for flat track racing with a stable chassis and a tractable 411cc single-cylinder engine… and of course, no front brake!
“Flat track is a sport that is easy to ride, but hard to master,” explains Breeann Poland, Marketing and Communications Lead – Royal Enfield Americas. “Johnny Lewis does a great job of breaking down the steps to learning how to slide the bike into a 180-degree turn, the signature of flat track racing. We’re proud to partner with Johnny for another season of Slide Schools, and we look forward to visiting some new venues in 2022.”
See the 2022 Royal Enfield Slide School by Moto Anatomy schedule below. Specific dates and locations are subject to change. Visit the Moto Anatomy Slide School website for the most up-to-date information on the 2022 schedule, and for information on how to book your spot.
2022 Royal Enfield Slide School by Moto Anatomy
Apr 29 S&S CYCLE / Speed Ranch Viola, WI
Apr 30 S&S CYCLE / Speed Ranch Viola, WI
July 1 Weedsport Speedway Weedsport, NY
July 2 Weedsport Speedway Weedsport, NY
Aug 5 Black Hills Speedway Rapid City, SD
Aug 24 Carson City Outlaw Flat Track Carson City, NV
Aug 25 Carson City Outlaw Flat Track Carson City, NV
Aug 28* Carson City Outlaw Flat Track Carson City, NV
Oct 14* (Location TBD) Central Florida
Nov 25 Flat Track Futures Fall Classic Harrisburg, PA
The Red Bull Ring, in Austria. Photo courtesy Michelin.
REBUILDING WORK AT THE RED BULL RING IS COMPLETE
Motorsport fans are once again gripped by racing fever in March! The start of the MotoGP season has provided the promise of a thrilling season ahead with numerous title contenders. A bit of patience is required until the riders return to Austria – but the Red Bull Ring is ready. In November 2021, Spielberg began rebuilding work to add a new layout option in close co-operation with the FIM, Dorna and FIA, and a few days ago it was completed. Famous race track developer Hermann Tilke planned the introduction of a chicane in the northwestern part of the track – primarily for motorcycling, whereas Formula 1 will keep on using the former layout. Don’t miss out on tickets for the first MotoGP on the new look track, the Motorcycle Grand Prix of Austria 2022 from August 19th to 21st August.
An overhead rendering of the new chicane installed between Turns One and Three at Red Bull Ring. Photo courtesy Red Bull Ring.
MORE ATTRACTIVENESS AND SAFETY FOR EVER FASTER RACE BIKES
To increase safety at the Red Bull Ring, especially in the premier motorcycle class, the top speed for race bikes will be diminished at the second turn. “Reduced speed was needed in MotoGP in this section of the track. This was achieved through the compact right-left combination which refrains from impacting the rest of the track. The planning was a real challenge due to the topography of the terrain, above all”, says Tilke. With comprehensive examinations, 15 drafts were made before the final layout concept envisaged the chicane as the ideal solution. The track planning is based on specific speed calculations, in which the dimensions of the run-off zones and the other safety facilities were accounted for.
Another rendering of the new chicane installed between Turns One and Three at Red Bull Ring. Photo courtesy Red Bull Ring.
90 DEGREE COMBINATION OFFERS INCREDIBLE RACING ACTION
Two 90-degree turns as part of a quick double apex chicane ensure for a real challenge that will test all the abilities of the MotoGP riders. The top motorcycle racing series is sure to become even more dramatic as a consequence with extra overtaking moves. The new layout option at the second turn is designed primarily for motorcycling. The usual track set-up has been retained so that two options are now available without any changes to the overall character of the turns. The Red Bull Ring continues to have ten turns.
The fans need a little patience before the new chicane serves up thrilling MotoGP racing at the Red Bull Ring on August 21st. One thing will not be changing – the side programme in Spielberg between sessions of the elite motorcycle racing series. Entertainment is in store at the Spielberg MotoGP Bike City with live acts and stunt shows. The Flying Bulls will also hold breathtaking air displays high above the race track. All the information on the “Motorrad Grand Prix von Österreich 2022” and tickets for the MotoGP highlight in Spielberg can be found on www.redbullring.com/tickets.
AHRMA flat track racers David Aldana (13), Scott Kay (66), and Charlie Williams (2s) in action. Photo by Dave Sundin, courtesy AHRMA.
AHRMA Classic MotoFest™ in the Heartland Returns with Flat Track Racing
AHRMA brings Flat Track motorcycle racing to the AHRMA Classic MotoFest™ in the Heartland
(March 30, 2022, Elora, Tennessee) – AHRMA Classic MotoFest™ in the Heartland is returning to Kansas and bringing vintage flat track racing along with their exciting road racing and off-road programs.
The American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association (AHRMA) in association with Bridgestone Tires, Underground Team Racing (UTR)/Kansas811 and Laroque Motorsports have confirmed that tickets are now available for online advance purchase for the May 27-29, 2022, event at ahrma.org/ahrma-classic-motofest-heartland/.
Spectators may purchase tickets plus reserve a variety of camping options, including trackside 30-amp and 50-amp RV sites. Race fans under age 15 will have free admission with an adult ticket purchase.
This year, AHRMA also brings flat track motorcycle racing to Topeka on Saturday evening May 28th at 6pm, following the road racing events.
A 1/6th mile track, located on the blacktop skid pad, promises fast short-track action.
Richard Brodock, AHRMA Dirt Track Coordinator said, “There won’t be a bad seat in the house with viewing almost 360 degrees around the track.”
For more information about the flat track racing or to volunteer, please contact Richard Brodock at [email protected]
For general questions contact the AHRMA Classic MotoFest™ in the Heartland event coordinator Jim Doyle by emailing [email protected].
ABOUT HEARTLAND:
Heartland Motorsports Park stands out as one of the world’s finest, multi-purpose racing and entertainment destinations. Located on the south side of Topeka, KS, the facility covers approximately 650 acres and provides ample room for its many racing and motorsports venues.
First opened in 1989, today’s facility features a championship, NHRA-sanctioned 1/4-mile drag strip, four-level sponsor-suite tower, a 2.5-mile road course with four different configurations, a 22-acre asphalt pad for autocross and drift events and a motocross track designed to host AHRMA type events.
The 23-acre paddock area features a mix of asphalt parking and access roads as well as grass parking and camping areas for car shows, swap meets and other large footprint events.
ABOUT AHRMA:
AHRMA (American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to preserving, restoring, and competing on historic motorcycles. With more than 3,300 members, AHRMA is the leading historic motorcycle racing group in North America and one of the largest in the world. The association’s enthusiastic membership reflects this country’s strong interest in classic bikes.
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