Podcast: John Ulrich & Chris Ulrich Featured On Official AMA Podcast

David Swarts

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August 5, 2021

Podcast: John Ulrich & Chris Ulrich Featured On Official AMA Podcast

John Ulrich is one of only a handful of people to win the AMA Dud Perkins Lifetime Achievement Award and be inducted into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame — both of which happened in 2017. His son, Chris, earned the AMA Hazel Kolb Brighter Image Award in 2016. The contributions of this father-son duo go far beyond motorcycle road racing championships and include business excellence, journalism and philanthropy. Tune in to hear their story.

Support the show (https://fs4.formsite.com/AMARacing/form21/index.html)

Australian Superbike: New Event Added Oct. 22-24 At Phillip Island

David Swarts

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August 5, 2021

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Australian Superbike: New Event Added Oct. 22-24 At Phillip Island

ASBK To Feature At Phillip Island Bass Coast Festival Of Motorsport

The mi-bike Insurance Australian Superbike Championship, presented by Motul, will feature the Alpinestars Superbike class alongside the Repco Supercars Championship and Porsche Carrera Cup at the Bass Coast Festival of Motorsport at Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, October 22-24.This new event created by the Australian Grand Prix Corporation will be a two and four wheel spectacular and will provide a tantalising feast for motorsport fans following the cancellation of the 2021 Australian MotoGP due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

With crucial Championship points on the line for the Alpinestars Superbike class in the mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship, presented by Motul, race fans are ensured of sensational ASBK racing action as the Superbikes scream down the Phillip Island main straight handlebar to handlebar at more than 300kmph.

The Bass Coast Festival of Motorsport will also provide a significant economic injection for Phillip Island’s tourism and local businesses as fans utilise the fantastic accommodation and tourism opportunities over the festival weekend. A range of local businesses, artists and producers will be showcased at the event itself.

Details on ticketing arrangements and on-sale dates will be provided soon on grandprix.com.au

Quotes attributable to Minister for Tourism Sport and Major Events Martin Pakula

“This new weekend of motorsport action is going to be a major winner for race fans and will provide a real boost for businesses across the Bass Coast.”

“We’ll see top drivers and riders in multiple championships races on a circuit that fans love to come to.”

Quote attributable to Motorcycling Australia CEO Peter Doyle

“This is a fantastic initiative of AGPC and the Victorian Government to get this event off the ground. The cross-discipline event worked really well with Supercars in Darwin recently and it’s great to be able to race at Phillip Island on the traditional MotoGP weekend.”

‘’Phillip Island is recognised as one of the world’s best motorcycle racing tracks and is one of the ASBK rider’s favourite. The Australian Superbikes are sure to put on some great racing for motorcycle fans and I’m sure we will create some new fans for ASBK along the way.’’

Quotes attributable to Australian Grand Prix Corporation CEO Andrew Westacott

“What a bonanza to have championship rounds of Supercars leading into Bathurst and one of the final rounds of the Australian Superbike Championship.”

“Phillip Island has been starved of motorsport and this event will have something for everyone, bringing much-needed visitation to the Island and surrounding communities.”

“I encourage all who can to come along and enjoy all that this region showcases, including some of Australia’s best natural experiences and culinary offerings.”

Keep up to date with the latest news on the mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship, presented by Motul via www.asbk.com.au and following ASBK on Facebook and Instagram. You can also join our ASBK mailing list at www.asbk.com.au

MotoGP: Red Bull Ring Is Extremely Demanding On Brakes

David Swarts

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August 5, 2021

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MotoGP: Red Bull Ring Is Extremely Demanding On Brakes

BREMBO BRAKE FACTS FOR MOTOGP AT THE RED BULL RING

A comparison between the two categories at the Red Bull Ring and a focus on Brembo GP4 calipers for racing enthusiasts

DETROIT, (August 5, 2021) – Brembo engineers offer a guide to braking for this weekend’s MotoGP Michelin Grand Prix of Styria to run at the Red Bull Ring, August 6-8.

After a long summer break, the MotoGP World Championship returns to the track with the first of two events at the Red Bull Ring. According to the Brembo technicians who work closely with all the MotoGP World Championship riders, the Austrian track is an extremely demanding circuits for brakes. On a scale of 1 to 5, it is rated 5 on the difficulty index.

The only circuit where riders take less time to complete a lap is the Sachsenring, but the German track is over half a kilometer shorter and uses much less braking power. At Spielberg, extremely high speeds are reached because of the long straight sections, most of which lead into tight corners.

10_Styria_MGP_en

Maximum lightweight and cooling for Brembo MotoGP calipers 

Used exclusively in MotoGP, the Brembo radial mount 4-piston monobloc calipers are made from a single block of billet machined aluminum-lithium. Compared to casting, billet machining allows for the use of materials with better mechanical characteristics and greater resistance to high temperatures.

As well as having fins on the external body, it has an anti-drag system which uses a spring device to significantly reduce residual torque. This caliper also increases braking torque because when braking, it generates a force which is combined with the force created by the hydraulic pressure of the brake fluid on the pistons.

MotoGP technology for street-legal motorcycles, too

Ever since it first went into world racing in the 1970s, Brembo has used the races to develop new technical solutions which, once they have proved to be successful and reliable, are used in mass production. The Brembo High Performance brake calipers, with unparalleled braking performance and stability, derive from the company’s experience on the track.

The Brembo GP4-RS caliper inspired by the monobloc used in MotoGP respects this philosophy. Designed for track enthusiasts and those who want the very best, its lightness, stiffness, cooling, design and performance make it stand out from competitors’ products.

Just like Formula One, the MotoGP bikes use their brakes on seven of the 10 corners. However, the values are very different in four braking zones, the braking distances for the motorbikes exceed 200 meters with 250 meter highs whereas the single-seaters never reach 150 meters. There is an amazing difference at Turn 9 where deceleration is 68 km/h for the F1 cars but more than double that for the MotoGPs.

On each lap, the MotoGP riders use their brakes for 27 seconds which amounts to 32 percent of the total race time. This is due, above all, to the first four corners alone where the brakes are used for a total 15 seconds. For the F1 cars, on the other hand, braking on these corners does not reach seven seconds and only just reaches 10 seconds for a whole lap.

Of the seven Red Bull Ring braking points, four are classified as hard on the brakes, whereas the other three are of medium difficulty. For Formula 1 on the other hand, a total of four are considered light.

The hardest braking section for MotoGP is the first corner due to the effort required by the rider and the braking system: going from 303 km/h to 100 km/h (188 mph to 62 mph) in 4.2 seconds takes 6 kg (13 lbs.) of load on the brake lever whereas the Brembo brake fluid reaches a pressure of 12.8 bar. In the meantime, the motorcycles cover a distance of 221 meters (242 yards) and the riders experience 1.5 G of deceleration.

MotoGP: Rossi Retiring At End Of 2021 Season

David Swarts

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August 5, 2021

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MotoGP: Rossi Retiring At End Of 2021 Season

Nine-time World Champion Valentino Rossi he will retire at the end of 2021 MotoGP World Championship.

The 42-year-old Italian made the announcement Thursday in a special press conference at the Red Bull Ring ahead of the Michelin Grand Prix of Styria.

“I said I would take a decision for next year after the summer break, and I decided to stop at the end of the season,” Rossi said. “Unfortunately this will be my last half season as a MotoGP rider. And it’s difficult, it’s a very sad moment because it’s difficult to say and know that next year I will not race with a motorcycle. I’ve done that for I think more or less 30 years!

“Next year, my life will change. But it was great, I’ve enjoyed it very much, it’s been a long, long journey and it was really, really fun. It’s 25, 26 years in the World Championship, so it was great. And I had unforgettable moments with all my guys, the guys who work for me, so… I don’t have a lot to say! Just this.”

Rossi’s 26-year career will end with no fewer than nine World Championships including seven 500cc/MotoGP World Championships, 115 Grand Prix victories including 89 500cc/MotoGP victories, and a total of 235 podium finishes.

Rossi plans to finish the 2021 season with the PETRONAS Yamaha Sepang Racing Team and then focus on running his newly announced Aramco Racing Team VR46 team in the 2022 MotoGP World Championship.

More, from a press release issued by Yamaha Motor Co. Ltd.:

YAMAHA THANK VALENTINO ROSSI FOR THEIR UNFORGETTABLE SHARED MOTOGP JOURNEY

Today, nine-time World Champion and Grand Prix racing legend Valentino Rossi has announced his retirement as a MotoGP rider after the end of the 2021 season. Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. and Yamaha Motor Racing want to thank Rossi for the – still ongoing – 16 fantastic years of partnership. They plan to maintain a close working relationship with the Italian after 2021 through various collaborations including the VR46 Riders Academy and the ’Yamaha VR46 Master Camp‘ training and racing programmes.

Spielberg (Austria), 5th August 2021

Following Valentino Rossi‘s MotoGP racing retirement announcement, coming into effect at the end of 2021, Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. and Yamaha Motor Racing wish to sincerely thank the nine-time World Champion and Grand Prix racing legend for 16 – still ongoing – unforgettable seasons together.

Yamaha and Rossi‘s story started with that iconic victory at Valentino‘s first GP race for Yamaha in South Africa in 2004. From there on in the partnership got to experience lots of thrilling racing action, many great moments in the paddock and off the track, securing to date 142 podiums, celebrating 56 GP victories, and winning four MotoGP World Championship Titles, in 2004, 2005, 2008, and 2009.

The Doctor‘s astounding achievements, unparalleled passion for racing, and unrivalled charisma make up a huge part of Yamaha‘s and MotoGP‘s heritage, earning the Italian, who is recognised the world over, the epithet “GOAT” (Greatest of All Time).

It will be the end of an epic MotoGP era when the number 46 won‘t be featuring in the MotoGP line-up in 2022, as racing fans the world over will agree. But Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. and Yamaha Motor Racing will continue to support Rossi in his future endeavours. They will retain a close working relationship with him through various collaborations including the VR46 Riders Academy and the Yamaha VR46 Master Camp training and racing programmes.

The retirement decision and new career opportunities will not diminish The Doctor‘s determination or lessen his efforts during his final months as a MotoGP rider. Likewise, Yamaha is extremely grateful for the MotoGP legend‘s contributions to its racing successes and will remain fully dedicated to ensuring that the second half of their 16th season together will be a fitting end to a very special MotoGP partnership.

YOSHIHIRO HIDAKA

PRESIDENT & CEO, YAMAHA MOTOR CO., LTD.

First and foremost, I would like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to Valentino for the great partnership we enjoyed with him. He will be deeply missed on track, inside the paddock, and behind the scenes at Yamaha, but we fully respect his decision.

“At Yamaha we take great pride in the Grand Prix motorcycle racing legacy that we have created together. The 16 years we will have spent as partners were filled with epic battles on track and wins. At Yamaha we always strive to give our fans and customers the feeling of Kando*. In a way, Valentino‘s entire career at Yamaha embodies this quest for the deep satisfaction and intense excitement that we experience when we encounter something of exceptional value. We are all very pleased that Valentino has decided to remain a Yamaha rider until the end of his MotoGP racing career and beyond.

“There are too many great moments between Yamaha and Valentino to pick one as a favourite. There were also challenges throughout the years, but the trust between us never wavered and even strengthened our partnership through the years.

“Valentino‘s achievements were made both on and off the track, and they make up a large and important part of Yamaha‘s racing heritage. We thank him for his incredible efforts, unequalled skills, and never-failing passion and optimism. We are proud to have been a part of his unique success story. We will forever cherish the precious memories we made together and hope to keep adding to them with him as a Yamaha brand ambassador.”

*Kando is a Japanese word for the simultaneous feelings of deep satisfaction and intense excitement that we experience when we encounter something of exceptional value.

LIN JARVIS

MANAGING DIRECTOR, YAMAHA MOTOR RACING

First of all, I would like to thank Valentino sincerely, on behalf of Yamaha Motor Racing, for the special partnership between him and Yamaha.

“We were privileged to be key players in a legendary Grand Prix era, with Valentino fortifying Yamaha‘s rider line-up for 16 – still ongoing – seasons. The now iconic partnership between Yamaha and Rossi started almost like a fairy tale. Rossi won that incredible race at Welkom in 2004, his first GP with Yamaha. His arrival at Yamaha was the catalyst that completely changed our MotoGP racing programme, and he gave us the confidence to regain our challenging spirit and once again become MotoGP World Champions.

“Since 2004 we have completed to date 264 races, together we secured 56 wins, 46 second places, 40 third places, and we won four MotoGP World Championship Titles in 2004, 2005, 2008, and 2009 respectively.

“Valentino is a living legend whose successes and personal flair contributed to Yamaha‘s legacy and heritage in abundance. Also, during more difficult periods, his positive mindset would be a boost to those around him, and he was always ready to go the extra mile for a good result. It‘s thanks to his never-failing passion for MotoGP that we can proudly look back on soon-to-be 16 fantastic seasons together.

“We all knew that eventually the moment would come that Valentino’s illustrious Grand Prix racing career would come to an end. His unparalleled skills and warm charisma will definitely be greatly missed by the fans, the media, the MotoGP paddock, and the entire Yamaha staff. But before he finally hangs up his leathers, we have nine more opportunities to enjoy and savour his appearances at the remaining Grand Prix races of the 2021 season. In that respect it is very fitting that we will see the return of racing fans and spectators at many of the coming races.

“So let us all enjoy the next GPs and then we‘ll get the chance to say a proper thank you to Valentino at the end of the Valencia GP weekend in November.

NOTES

With 26 Grand Prix seasons under his belt and still competing at the age of 42, Rossi is known as one of the greatest riders of all time.

He equals Mike Hailwood and Carlo Ubbiali, who both also wrote nine titles to their names in all classes; only Giacomo Agostini and Ángel Nieto have more.

With 56 wins from 264 races Rossi is the most successful Yamaha racer of all time.

Moreover, Rossi is the only rider to win premier class titles on five different types of motorcycles (500cc 4-cylinder two-stroke, 990cc 5-cylinder four-stroke, Yamaha 990cc 4-cylinder four-stroke, Yamaha 800cc 4-cylinder four-stroke, and a Yamaha 1000cc 4-cylinder four-stroke).

RECORDS & HIGHLIGHTS

Rossi is the most successful Yamaha rider in history (56 wins, 46 second places, 40 third places on a Yamaha, scored in 264 races so far).

He is the rider that’s been active the longest in Grand Prix racing (he made his debut in 1996, this is his 26th season, and he has made 423 Grand Prix starts in total, of which 363 were in the premier class).

He competed the most seasons on a Yamaha in the MotoGP class (this is his 16th season).

He secured the most podiums for Yamaha in the MotoGP class (so far, he has stood on the rostrum with Yamaha 142 times).

He holds the most first places for Yamaha in the MotoGP class (56 wins).

He completed 230 races back-to-back, without missing one (from his debut in 1996 in Malaysia until the race in Mugello in 2010).

He holds the record for most races started overall and in the premier class. (He has started in 423 GP races across all classes; 363 of which have been in the premier class and 264 of those races he rode on a Yamaha.)

He was the first rider to take back-to-back premier-class victories with different manufacturers (after his win at the 2004 season-opening GP in South Africa).

He achieved the highest number of premier-class victories in a single season by a Yamaha rider (11 wins in 2005).

He stood on the podium in the premier class on 199 occasions.

He has been on the podium 235 times across all classes.

He is the only Grand Prix rider that also excels in rally racing. (He is a seven-time winner of the Monza Rally Show and won the GTE Am-class of the 2019 Gulf 12 Hours at the Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi.)

Out of Yamaha‘s 516 Grand Prix victories, 11% were secured by him, making Rossi the biggest contributing rider (56 victories of the 516 GP wins secured by Yamaha).

He is the only active Grand Prix racer who is also a lower-classes team owner at the same time.

He secured 6,330 points in total (before the 2021 Styria GP), if you combine his results over all the classes he competed in (125cc, 250cc, 500cc, MotoGP).

More, from a press release issued by Dorna:

Valentino Rossi announces his retirement from Grand Prix racing

Thursday, 05 August 2021

In a special Press Conference on Thursday at the Michelin® Grand Prix of Styria, Valentino Rossi (Petronas Yamaha SRT) has officially announced his retirement from motorcycle Grand Prix racing at the end of 2021.

Over a career spanning more than a quarter of a century, the Italian has carved out a legend that will be hard to match or surpass, either on-track or off. Nine World Championships, 115 wins and 235 podiums, and being the only competitor in history to win titles in the 125cc, 250cc, 500cc and MotoGP™ categories, mean Rossi’s name will forever feature in the history books. But his unique brand of charisma, speed, race craft and world domination – plus a dash of rock and roll – have made the Italian something more than a rider. The ‘Doctor’ has become an icon.

At the venue that saw Rossi take his first podium back in 1996, he announced that 2021 will be his 26th and final season in Grand Prix motorcycle racing. But the VR46 name will remain a key presence in the paddock, adding a premier class team next season, and the man himself will forever remain that which very few can claim: a motorcycling and sporting icon.

For the quarter of a century of history and memories, the only thing left to say is: GRAZIE VALE!

Valentino Rossi: “I said I would take a decision for next year after the summer break, and I decided to stop at the end of the season. Unfortunately this will be my last half season as a MotoGP rider. And it’s difficult, it’s a very sad moment because it’s difficult to say it and know that next year I will not race with a motorcycle, I’ve done that for I think more or less 30 years! Next year, my life will change. But it was great, I’ve enjoyed it very much, it’s been a long, long journey and it was really, really fun. It’s 25, 26 years in the World Championship, so it was great. And I had a unforgettable moments with all my guys, the guys who work for me, so… I don’t have a lot to say! Just this.

“I had a very long career and fortunately I won a lot of races, but I have some moments and victories that are unforgettable. Pure joy. Some things where I laughed for a week and after 10 days I’d still be laughing, wonder why and remember the race. It’s difficult, yes. A difficult decision but you need to understand… I think in the end in sport, the results make the difference. So at the end I think it’s the right way. It’s difficult because I had the chance to race for my team in MotoGP, together with my brother, something that I would like. But it’s ok like this I think… we have another half season, I don’t know how many races, I think it will be more difficult when we arrive at the last race, but for now it’s just to say my decision to everyone. I can’t complain about my career!”

MotoAmerica: Even More From The Races At Brainerd

David Swarts

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August 4, 2021

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MotoAmerica: Even More From The Races At Brainerd

Travis Wyman Racing overcomes mechanical gremlins to score three points-paying finishes at MotoAmerica Superbikes at Minnesota

Irv Seaver BMW-sponsored rider still in contention for two MotoAmerica titles despite setbacks at Brainerd International Raceway

BRAINERD, Minn. — Travis Wyman’s introduction to racing at Brainerd International Raceway started with an engine failure Thursday. Yet, the Irv Seaver BMW-sponsored rider bought, broke-in and raced a new engine at the July 30-Aug. 1 round and scored championship points in every race he contested.

Though he didn’t record his usual race results, the Las Vegas resident remains in contention for the MotoAmerica Stock 1000 and Superbike Cup titles.

While Wyman’s championship rivals were putting in laps on the 2.5-mile Brainerd circuit Thursday in advance of the series’ first event in Minnesota, the engine Wyman used to win the Stock 1000 race three weeks ago at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca broke beyond repair.

With his back-up engine having been delayed in shipping, Wyman found another BMW team in the Brainerd paddock that had a spare engine – which was mounted in an off-the-showroom-floor new BMW S 1000 RR. Wyman used the Friday Stock 1000 practice session to break in the new engine to be ready for qualifying Friday afternoon.

Friday afternoon’s Stock 1000 Qualifying 1 session was Wyman’s first opportunity to put in fast laps on the Brainerd circuit. He was the eighth-fastest rider in the session, with his best lap time about a second off the session leader’s pace. In Saturday’s Qualifying 2, Wyman was unable to improve his qualifying position and had to settle for ninth on the Stock 1000 starting grid.

It wasn’t long after Saturday qualifying that the Stock 1000 Class’ only race of the weekend got underway. While Wyman got a good start, he got shuffled back several positions on the opening lap and finished Lap 2 in 12th place. Wyman gradually worked his way up the running order and was in ninth place at the start of the last lap. However, a mistake at the penultimate corner of the race caused Wyman to run off track, and he finished the race in 12th place.

Later Saturday, Wyman was back out on the Brainerd track for the day’s Superbike race. From 18th on the starting grid, Wyman got off the line well and passed three riders on the first lap before the race was red flagged. Relegated back to 18th for the restart, Wyman moved up one position during the first lap and picked off two more riders before the race ended to claim a 15th-place finish.

Sunday’s Superbike race was Wyman’s best performance of the weekend. Starting in 16th place, the BMW rider made a late-race charge that saw him move up from 15th place with six laps to go to a 12th-place finish.

Though he no longer leads the Superbike Cup standings, Wyman’s efforts to get as many points as possible given his circumstances have kept him in the title hunt. He’s now just 11 points adrift of the class leader with eight Superbike races to go in 2021. In the Stock 1000 Class, Wyman is now in fourth place and still in the battle for that championship.

Next up on the Travis Wyman Racing BMW schedule is MotoAmerica’s Superbikes at Pittsburgh round, which is slated to take place Aug. 13-15 at Pittsburgh International Race Complex in Wampum, Pa.

Travis Wyman / No. 10

“My team and I endured a lot of setbacks, but I’m really happy with how we never caved to the challenges and found a way to get the results we did this weekend. It was a bummer to have missed out on a top-10 finish in the Stock 1000 race, but Sunday’s Superbike race was the most consistent race I’ve run in my career. My team did an awesome job giving me the best motorcycle they could, especially since the back-up engine we were supposed to have for Brainerd did make it to the track in time. We’ll have that engine in the bike and ready to go for the next round at Pittsburgh, which is a track I really like. I was in contention for a win there last year until my injured elbow slowed my pace, and I think we’ll be able to make up some of the points we missed out on at Brainerd.”

AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days 2021 “Reached New Heights” (Updated)

David Swarts

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August 4, 2021

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AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days 2021 “Reached New Heights” (Updated)

American Motorcyclist Association thanks partners, supporters who helped produce remarkable AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days, presented by Royal Enfield

America’s largest vintage motorcycling celebration roars back in 2021

PICKERINGTON, Ohio — The biggest bash in vintage motorcycling — AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days, presented by Royal Enfield — reached new heights in 2021 as motorcyclists from coast to coast descended on Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in Lexington, Ohio, July 23-25, for three days of racing, riding and out-of-this-world fun.

The annual event is organized and promoted by the American Motorcyclist Association to raise funds for the American Motorcycle Heritage Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that helps fund the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame’s mission to promote the heritage of motorcycling in America.

An aerial view of Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course during AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days 2021. Photo courtesy AMA.

AMA President and CEO Rob Dingman thanked all who helped make the event possible.

“Tens of thousands motorcyclists enjoyed one heck of a party at AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days, celebrating motorcycling’s heritage, spending time with good friends and enjoying the freedom of two wheels,” Dingman said. “The AMA takes great pride in organizing this event, where motorcycling’s diverse community comes together like nowhere else, raising money for the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame. None of it would be possible without a long list of partners, supporters and volunteers.”

With the support of presenting sponsor Royal Enfield, this year’s event honored the impact of the iconic motorcycle movie On Any Sunday. The storied film marked its 50th year in 2021, and its feel-good vibe was the perfect companion to AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days. Todd Huffman’s Pipeline Digital Media, which holds the anniversary distribution rights to On Any Sunday, was on hand to promote the re-release and host a screening of the digitally remastered version on Friday night.

The grand marshal for the event was AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famer David Aldana, who had a central role in On Any Sunday. Aldana greeted fans, signed autographs, led the Lap for History, conducted interviews and participated in vintage flat track racing at the nearby Ashland County Fairgrounds half-mile.

“If there is a consummate representative for an event like AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days, David is it,” Dingman said. “Not only is he a motorcycling legend, but he’s full of first-hand knowledge and experience about vintage motorcycles and racing, loves to talk about the history of the sport and his role in it, and he’s endlessly patient and accommodating to fans. From everyone at the AMA, David, thanks for enhancing our event this year and supporting the Hall of Fame.”

AMA Director of Industry Relations and Business Development Steve Gotoski thanked the companies that provided financial support for the event.

“Royal Enfield, GEICO Insurance, Old Bike Barn, Kenda Tire, Federal Motorcycle Transport, Biltwell, Blendzall Oil, B’laster and American Honda, who was on site with demo bikes, really stepped up to back the event this year, which of course helps the Hall of Fame,” Gotoski said.

In addition to sponsoring the event, Kenda Tire, along with STACYC and Iron Pony, also organized a kids’ area that included tracks for kids to experience STACYC’s electric bikes.

Gotoski also thanked companies that displayed in the Old Bike Barn Crossroads, including Red Roof Inn, Evil Coffee Company, Skidmark Garage, Tommy O’s, Motorcycle Ohio, artist Wayne Mauro, Worldwide Auctioneers and North High Brewing.

“Of course, we can’t forget about the hundreds of vendors who populate the immense swap meet every year,” Gotoski said. “Not only do they provide critical financial support for the event, but they bring products and an atmosphere that attendees simply won’t find anywhere else.”

AMA Director of Membership Marketing and Services Amanda Donchess said that she appreciated the display partners who helped enrich the infield experience this year. They included AMA-chartered clubs that displayed at the event: the Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club, the Classic British Motorcycle Club of Cincinnati and the Cincinnati Café Racers.

Infield partners also included Liza Miller, who produces the Motorcycles & Misfits Podcast. Miller curated a moto-film festival at AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days that entertained guests throughout the long weekend. The Rev Sisters Moto Film Festival included several films, both long and short, that celebrate motorcycling.

Other partners included American Motor Drome Wall of Death, Mark and Dawn Merical and the judges for the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Ride-in Bike Show, presented by Old Bike Barn: Bear Haughton, Casey Cooper, Tom Heil, Mike Grudewald and Mark Mederski.

“AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days is a community event, and it would not be what it is without the AMA clubs and other partners contributing to the good vibes that we all experience here,” Donchess said. “Safety is a critical component of any event, and Motorcycle Ohio’s expert riders deserve a big thanks for helping maintain order during the Lap for History. I’d also like to thank former AMA Board Chair Maggie McNally-Bradshaw, as well as Motorcycle Ohio, for planning and staffing what many participants said was the best Ashland Dinner Ride they had ever attended.”

Vintage racing is one of the key activities at AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days, drawing thousands of race entries each year in vintage motocross, hare scrambles, trials, road racing and flat track. This did not disappoint in 2021, with participant counts up by as much as 50 percent in some disciplines.

“Simply put, without our key racing partners, this event could not happen at the scale it does,” said AMA Director of Racing Mike Pelletier. “Among the most important is the Roadracing World Action Fund, for providing soft barriers for the road race course.”

Pelletier also thanked WERA for road race operations, BAJA MX Inc. for motocross operations, Rosanna Gzebinski in racing registration, Mandi Mastin for hare scrambles operations, Trials Inc. for the trials event, announcer Kevin Kelly, motocross track builder Jeff Beerbower/Log Road MX, MX Referee Ray Bergeron, Saddleback East for the pit bike race setup, the Christian Motorcycle Association for flagging duties, RaceLine Ministries, JCR Studio and Rapid 2-Way.

Off-road racing volunteers included Kurt Mosher, Terry Bernard, Joy Barnard, Adam Johnson, Chad Bailey, Perry Lundsford, Mikah Cole, Doug Vann, Kenny Held, James Rose, Trevor Barrick, Luke Sanford, Scott Denney, Greg Schlabach and Jon Martin.

Of course, the most critical partner for AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days is the facility itself, Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course. The team, led by Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course President Craig Rust, excelled in 2021, helping the AMA produce the smoothest, most efficiently run AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days in recent memory.

“The operations and security teams for Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course did an exceptional job helping us run a multi-faceted and energy-packed event,” said AMA Director of Operations Steve Austin. “Dave Schwall and Brian Sipes are a valuable resource to us for this event, and it was a pleasure to work with them this year.”

AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days is the country’s premier celebration of vintage motorcycles and motorcycling heritage. To learn more about AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days, see photos and read stories from the event, visit www.americanmotorcyclist.com.

To ensure you get information about the 2022 event as early as possible, sign up to receive AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days updates at https://americanmotorcyclist.com/ama-vintage-motorcycle-days-e-news-sign-up-2/, follow the official event Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/AMAVintageMotorcycleDays and keep an eye on www.amavintagemotorcycledays.com.

About the American Motorcyclist Association

Founded in 1924, the AMA is a not-for-profit member-based association whose mission is to promote the motorcycle lifestyle and protect the future of motorcycling. As the world’s largest motorcycling rights and event sanctioning organization, the AMA advocates for riders’ interests at all levels of government and sanctions thousands of competition and recreational events every year. The AMA also provides money-saving discounts on products and services for its members. Through the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio, the AMA honors the heroes and heritage of motorcycling. For more information, visit americanmotorcyclist.com.

Not a member? Join the AMA today: americanmotorcyclist.com.

More, from another press release issued by the AMA:

AMA Thanks Roadracing World Action Fund for Soft-Barrier Deployment at AMA Vintage Grand Championship

PICKERINGTON, Ohio — The American Motorcyclist Association expresses its appreciation to the Roadracing World Action Fund for assisting with soft-barrier deployment at the AMA Vintage Grand Championship, July 23-25 at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in Lexington, Ohio, during AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days, presented by Royal Enfield.

“We appreciate the contribution of the Roadracing World Action Fund,” said AMA Director of Racing Mike Pelletier. “Thanks to the soft-barrier deployment around the road race course at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, AMA members competing in the road-racing program during AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days were better protected in the event of a crash.”

“Soft barriers for road racing represent the progression of technology making racing safer, and therefore, even better,” added Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course President Craig Rust. “Thanks to the contribution of the Roadracing World Action Fund, the vintage road racers at the AMA Vintage Grand Championship were more confident to give it their all in pursuit of championships and victories at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course.”

The Roadracing World Action Fund, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit charitable organization with a mission of helping prevent racetrack injuries, provides soft barriers, also known under the brand names Airfence and Alpina, for use at road race and dirt track events. The pre-inflated barriers are positioned in front of walls and other trackside obstacles and force air through blow-off valves to absorb impact energy in the event of a rider crash.

“We were happy to provide soft barriers for the AMA Vintage Grand Championship,” said John Ulrich, founder and president of the Roadracing World Action Fund. “The mission of the Roadracing World Action Fund is to help improve rider safety, and the deployment of these sections helped accomplish that. We thank all who have donated to the Roadracing World Action Fund to make this and other deployments possible.”

Riders on course at Mid-Ohio with Airfence deployed in the background. Photo courtesy AMA.

MotoGP: Crutchlow Says He Has No Results Targets

David Swarts

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August 4, 2021

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MotoGP: Crutchlow Says He Has No Results Targets

PETRONAS Yamaha SRT ready for resumption of action in Styria

Two weekends at Spielberg signal the start of the second half of the 2021 season for Valentino Rossi and stand-in rider Cal Crutchlow

This weekend will see the MotoGP paddock roar back into life after the summer break, with two back-to-back weekends of action at the Spielberg circuit. PETRONAS Yamaha Sepang Racing Team’s Valentino Rossi will be joined at the StyrianGP by Cal Crutchlow, who is filling in for the recovering Franco Morbidelli.

After a five-week summer break, Rossi will be looking to kick off the second half of the season by continuing progress made in the first half and come away from the StyrianGP with a good result. Having only been on the calendar since 2016, after an 18 year absence, the Spielberg circuit is one of the few tracks where the Italian has not been on the podium. However, last year’s two Austrian races saw Valentino enjoy a top five and a top ten result (fifth and ninth).

Joining the Malaysian squad for the two races in Austria and the BritishGP, Crutchlow is looking forward to jumping back on a Yamaha YZR-M1 and being back on the grid – for the first time since the 2020 PortugueseGP. Although the Brit didn’t have the best of races at Spielberg last year, he finished the 2018 edition just shy of the podium – in fourth. Cal’s main focus for the weekend will be to acclimatise to the PETRONAS Yamaha SRT machinery and make steady progress session by session.

Action will begin for Rossi and Crutchlow with Free Practice 1 at 9.55am local time (3.55pm MYT) on Friday, with Sunday’s 28-lap MotoGP race due to get underway at 2pm local time (8pm MYT).

Valentino Rossi

The summer break has been good. I was able to relax and spend some time away with my people, before heading back home for some training on the bikes. It will be nice to be racing again this weekend, but to be honest I’m not sure it is the best track for us. We know the areas where our bike is strong, but there are also areas that we need to improve and I think the Austrian track might not play to our strengths. It is in a very beautiful place though, with a lot of green around it so although it is a difficult track, it is a nice place to be. We will need to try to find the best balance for these next two races, as they are both at Spielberg, and aim to achieve the maximum that is possible for us.

Cal Crutchlow

I’m really looking forward to being back on the grid and getting into the swing of a race weekend again, although it’s going to feel very different to the job that I’ve been doing this year as Yamaha’s test rider. The circuit at Spielberg isn’t one that I’ve enjoyed too much in the past, however I did finish fourth in 2018 and that was a good result. It’s not a fast and flowing circuit, it’s somewhere where you need to be quick and very precise. I don’t have a target as such when it comes to results, my main aim will just be to try to improve session by session. I’ll be working with Ramon Forcada, who knows the Yamaha bike very well. I think it will be good as Ramon was with Yamaha when I was. I’m sure it will go well; I just want to make sure that I do a good job for the team.

World Superbike: Previews Of The Races At Autodrom Most

David Swarts

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August 4, 2021

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World Superbike: Previews Of The Races At Autodrom Most

All New Challenge For KRT Duo

Jonathan Rea and Alex Lowes will take a leap into the unknown with the new Ninja ZX-10RR in a few days as the FIM Superbike World Championship heads to Autodrom Most in the Czech Republic for the first time ever. The usual three points scoring races will take place over the weekend of 6-8 August, with Most forming the sixth round of the 2021 season.

After a successful return to the very well known Assen circuit last time out an all-new prospect faces KRT pairing Rea and Lowes at a circuit that has never been used for this level of championship competition before.

The Autodrom Most, in the Bohemia province of Czechia, is a 4.212km long ribbon of tarmac that packs 21 corners into its length, with the vast majority being right handed.

Neither Lowes nor Rea have ever ridden at Most before, but the official KRT WorldSBK riders – who will form a partnership at the 2021 Suzuka 8 Hours race with Lucas Mahias – are eagerly anticipating another new challenge.

Confidence is high for Rea after having an almost perfect previous round, taking pole position and all three race wins on offer at Assen in the Netherlands. Jonathan regained the championship lead last time out and extended it to 37 points.

Lowes, now rested and recuperated after a tough physical challenge at Assen, is looking to Most to re-start his podium scoring form. Alex has stood on four podiums this year already and is in fourth place in the championship fight.

The track that both Jonathan and Alex will face this weekend will be the second circuit in Czechia to host WorldSBK events. Laid out in a former industrial area the Most track design features several areas where a fast change of direction is required, and a very heavy braking area into the first chicane.

After the Most round the championship heads to southern Europe once more, and another all-new track for WorldSBK, at Navarra in Spain between 20-22 August.

Jonathan Rea (1). Photo courtesy Kawasaki.

Jonathan Rea, stated: “It is always exciting going to a new circuit. Most is completely unknown to me and the team. Going to any new circuit I would study previous races, either MotoGP or past races of WorldSBK, but even after scouring the internet for footage it is very difficult to find race coverage of Most. The layout looks nice, some fast and flowing corners so it is exciting to learn something new. When I arrive I will do some laps with my bicycle and do a track walk with my team. The base set-up of our bike is in a really good window and on Friday it will be very important to find a good set-up and a rhythm straight away. Step-by-step we will get ready for the race. We do not have much time in practice but I enjoy that – being under pressure. I am looking forward to seeing what we can do. We had a great weekend in Assen so it would be nice to carry on with that momentum behind us.”

Alex Lowes (22). Photo courtesy Kawasaki.

Alex Lowes, stated: “Most is not a track that I know much about, to be honest. We drove back from Assen so I had a chance to look at some onboard laps on my phone. I have also been trying to get some information from some guys who have been there. I will do some more homework now before we get there. The track itself looks like a different layout to many others, with some fast corners and changes of direction. It is going to be a good challenge and one of the really positive things about the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10RR is that it is such a good base it works pretty well everywhere. We are lucky in that regard. I will now focus on learning the track on Friday. I do not think anybody has got massive experience of the place so I am looking forward to making a step in the right direction. I want to come out strong for this new challenge at Most.”

Lucas Mahias (Kawasaki Puccetti Racing) will be unable to ride at the Czech round after breaking the scaphoid bone in his wrist at Assen. He is likely to make a return at the seventh round of the season in Navarra.

Isaac Vinales (Orelac Racing VerdNatura Kawasaki) is 17th overall at present, in his rookie WorldSBK season. Most will be a new challenge for him, as well as the vast majority of his rivals.

Loris Cresson (TPR Outdo Kawasaki) will have a new team-mate for Most, and the rest of 2021, as Jayson Uribe (TPR Outdo Kawasaki) joins the team at Most.

More, from a press release issued by Pata Yamaha with Brixx:

Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK Ready to ‘Czech out’ Autodrom Most

Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK’s Toprak Razgatlıoğlu and Andrea Locatelli are excited to discover Autodrom Most, a new venue for the FIM Superbike World Championship in 2021, for the sixth round of the series taking place in the Czech Republic from 6-8 August.

In addition to the challenge of a new circuit, the team’s riders will both be looking to return to the rostrum after their recent runs of success. The latest honours went to 24-year-old Italian rider Locatelli, who celebrated his first podium in WorldSBK in spectacular style after leading half of Race 2 in Assen.

For teammate and championship protagonist Razgatlıoğlu, redemption is at the top of the list as he looks to regain lost ground in the Riders’ Championship fight, following the Turn 1 incident in Assen that ended his chance to challenge for victory in Race 2. With a 37-point deficit to overcome, the Turkish sensation has only one thing in mind: winning the next race.

Lying in wait for both riders will be 21 new corners to learn across the 4.149km Most circuit located in the northwest of the Czech Republic, before the first full-length race distance of 22 laps (92.664km) on Saturday afternoon.

Friday’s Free Practice schedule remains the same with two 45-minute sessions at 10:30 (CEST) and 15:00, the only difference to the normal weekend schedule will be a later WorldSBK Race 2 start time on Sunday afternoon of 15:15.

Toprak Razgatlioglu (54). Photo courtesy Dorna.

Toprak Razgatlıoğlu

“I am only focused on the coming races, the aim is to fight for the win always. I am looking forward to riding the R1 at Most, and it will be a new circuit for almost everyone so we will see what is possible. I think we are very strong in all circuits now but we will see what happens. My Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK team did an amazing job in Assen, and now we will continue the fight and try for the best position in every race.”

Andrea Locatelli

“As always, I am excited to get back to riding my R1 WorldSBK and it will be interesting to discover this new circuit in Most. Assen was like a dream, together with my crew we have been working so hard to increase the speed on the limit, and keep taking steps in every race. To be on the podium finally in the long race, after leading for more than 10 laps was an amazing feeling! Now, we will keep working again and try to be strong to push for more good results this weekend.”

More, from a press release issued by Team HRC:

A new WorldSBK circuit awaits Team HRC

Team HRC now heads into the sixth round of the Superbike World Championship, set to play out this coming weekend at the Autodrom Most in the Czech Republic.

At the last event, which concluded ten days ago at the Assen TT Circuit in The Netherlands, Alvaro Bautista did well to score a fifth-place finish in race 2, while Leon Haslam closed with a best of eighth. The Team HRC duo now want to take another demonstrable step up at what is a new track for them both, and not only them. As the majority of the SBK riders don’t have any experience of the track, it will be something of a level playing field as the event gets underway this Friday. Team HRC and its riders hope to hit the ground running in the opening practice sessions, working hard to learn and understand the intriguing layout the Czech circuit presents.

The Autodrom Most was constructed between 1978 and 1983 and has been used for a wide variety of car, bike and truck competitions. The circuit is located in the north-east of the country, close to the German border and roughly 100 km from Prague. It currently measures 4.212 km in length and comprises a total of 21 varied turns. A new addition to the WorldSBK calendar this year, the championship organisers have signed a five-year contract with the Czech circuit.

Alvaro Bautista 19

“The last race weekend was something of an uphill climb, but we were gradually able to improve our performance and results by working well on the set-up of the bike, especially on the electronics side. We would like to start from where we left off there and place consistently in the top five right from Friday morning. Let’s see; Most is a new track for the Superbikes and we will try to keep improving after Assen. I raced at Most many years ago, in the 125cc European Championship (2002), but I don’t remember the track layout very well, just a few points like the first chicane, which is very fast. Anyway, we will all have to get to grips with the track and find our references, and I just hope to work well with my team, find good sensations, and have fun riding my CBR at this track.”

Leon Haslam 91

“I’m very much looking forward to Most. I’ve seen many videos of the track on the internet and it’s always nice to go to a new circuit – I think it can be an exciting race. Not many riders have been here, so it’s very much a level playing field. We’ll continue our development work with the Honda and have some more things to try. So we’ll keep pushing as always and look forward to a new race in the Czech Republic.”

More, from a press release issued by BMW Motorrad Motorsport:

New territory for WorldSBK: BMW Motorrad Motorsport ready for the Most debut.

Autodrom Most, in the Czech Republic, hosts the FIM Superbike World Championship for the first time.

Round six of the 2021 WorldSBK season.

Jonas Folger: “The circuit is not far from my house, so I can virtually call it a home race”.

Munich. BMW Motorrad Motorsport is once again entering new territory with the FIM Superbike World Championship. This weekend (6th to 8th August), WorldSBK races in the Czech city of Most for the first time. Autodrom Most is unfamiliar terrain for the BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team and its two riders Tom Sykes (GBR) and Michael van der Mark (NED), although Mark has ridden there many years ago. Jonas Folger (GER) from the Bonovo MGM Racing Team has more recent experience of the circuit.

Autodrom Most is located in the northwest of the Czech Republic, not far from the border with Germany. The Most region has hosted motorsport events for over 70 years – first on street circuits, before the permanent racetrack opened in 1983. Since then, races in national and international championships have been held there. Most features on the WorldSBK calendar for the first time in 2021.

Quotes ahead of the Most round.

Marc Bongers, BMW Motorrad Motorsport Director: “Most is a new circuit on the calendar. For this reason, it is very important to immediately find a good basis in the two free practice sessions on Friday. Jonas Folger has been there often, and our colleagues in the International German Motorcycle Championship have also ridden there. As such, we have some information, but it can never be transferred directly to World Superbikes. In addition, it had been agreed that no one goes testing there with their Superbikes so we are all entering uncharted territory. We will see what awaits us there. Recent events have shown that you have to land on the front two rows in Saturday’s Superpole to have a successful race weekend. That is one of the goals for the weekend.”

Shaun Muir, Team Principal BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team: “The team is looking forward to going to the first WorldSBK round at the Most circuit. That’s exciting for everybody and very much a level playing field with all the competitors and teams agreeing in not take part in any testing leading up in the event. Overall, I think it will be a very challenging circuit, lots of variations. Changeable weather conditions are expected and we already know that we were competitive in those environments. But overall, the team hopes that we end up with a completely dry weekend to continue the development of the BMW M 1000 RR. I think we are in a very good place, the riders are feeling very good about the progression of the bike over the last three, four races and we are looking forward to getting the event underway.”

Michael van der Mark (60). Photo courtesy BMW Motorrad Motorsport.

Michael van der Mark, BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team: “I’ve been to Most, but that was 13 years ago. I watched an on-board lap on YouTube and noticed that I have forgotten half of the track, so it I think one can say that it’s like a new circuit for me. So in the first couple of laps I will just try to learn the track and find some markers, braking points and stuff like that. The last couple of weekends, we saw that we were making progress. The gap to the podium was getting smaller and smaller. So we now have to try and find these last couple of tenths, especially on race pace, to be able to fight for the podium. It is difficult to say what to expect for this weekend on a new track but this is our goal, for sure.”

Tom Sykes (66). Photo courtesy BMW Motorrad Motorsport.

Tom Sykes, BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team: “I am obviously very much looking forward to the new venture. I have been to the Czech Republic a number of times before but Most is a new circuit for myself and I believe for most of the WorldSBK paddock. This is going to be very interesting and hopefully now with our base set-up of the new BMW M 1000 RR we can have a strong start to the weekend and look to build on this in preparation for the races even if we only have a small amount of time on Friday to do so. The weekend will be a kind of an unpredictable one in terms of results because most of the teams are going there with zero information. I am looking forward to this new challenge.”

Jonas Folger (94). Photo courtesy BMW Motorrad Motorsport.

Jonas Folger, Bonovo MGM Racing: “I am really looking forward to Most after the race weekend in Assen was such a positive one – apart from the crash. We had really good pace there. We are now looking to continue at Most where we left off at Assen. The circuit is not far from me, so I can virtually call it a home race. I hope a lot of German fans make the trip. I am looking forward to WorldSBK’s debut at Most. I can hardly wait.”

More, from a press release issued by Aruba.it Racing Ducati:

The Autodrom Most (Czech Republic) to host a WorldSBK round for the first time in history

The sixth round of the 2021 WorldSBK season will take place in Czech Republic at the Autodrom Most, which will host a World Superbike Championship event for the first time ever.

The Aruba.it Racing – Ducati Team is already working to get ready for the race weekend: the aim is to return to the top step of the podium, after the three consecutive second places obtained by Scott Redding and Michael Rinaldi at the Dutch Round on the TT Circuit of Assen (Netherlands).

Scott Redding is third in the WorldSBK standings with 162 points, 81 less than championship leader Rea (Kawasaki).

After reaching the fifth place in the standings, Michael Rinaldi (111 points) will try to attack the fourth place of Lowes (Kawasaki, 127 points).

Scott Redding (45). Photo courtesy Ducati.

Scott Redding (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati #45)

“We had a day of practice day on this new circuit but riding a street bike is not particularly indicative other than to familiarize yourself with the layout of the track. At the same time I must admit that I really like riding on new circuits and I hope I can do well.”

Michael Ruben Rinaldi (21). Photo courtesy Ducati.

Michael Rinaldi (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati #21)

“Most is certainly a different track compared to the ones we usually see on the WorldSBK calendar. It will be important to understand the circuit as soon as possible and be competitive from the first round, hoping that the weather conditions will allow us to work with continuity.

Canadian Superbike: New Hard Charger Award Introduced

David Swarts

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August 4, 2021

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Canadian Superbike: New Hard Charger Award Introduced

FAST Riding School Offer Pro Superbike Hard Charger Award at CTMP National

Toronto, ON – The next event in the Canadian National Superbike Championship at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park, August 13-15, will feature the new FAST Riding School Hard Charger Award. The CSBK event at “old Mosport” next month will for the first time offer three Pro Superbike Feature events over the weekend, and each will provide a $500 bonus for the racer deemed to have produced the best effort in context of that race, specifically overcoming a potentially wide range of challenges.

CSBK Media staffers will determine the winner of the FAST Riding School hard charger Award immediately following each of the National Feature class races. The winner will receive the ceremonial “big cheque,” as well as a custom number plate commemorating their unique success.

Currently, Alex Dumas leads the Pro Superbike points standings after two CSBK National races, competing for the Liqui Moly/M.P.G./Fast Riding School Suzuki GSX-R1000. 18-year-old Dumas is an instructor for the FAST Riding School, and a two-time MotoAmerica National Champion.

The FAST Riding School was started at Sanair International in Quebec in 1986, offering a unique in Canada curriculum managed by the AMA F-1 winner and Canadian Motorcycle Hall of Fame member Alan Labrosse. The school was eventually owned and run by three-time Canadian National Superbike Champion Michel Mercier, also a Hall of Famer.

The FAST Riding School was recently purchased by ex-Pro racer Martin Hamel, who has revamped the Shannonville Motorsport Park based instruction program. CSBK National Official Series Announcer Frank Wood is also a staffer at the FAST Riding School. CSBK principal Colin Fraser is a former FAST Riding School Instructor.

FAST Riding School offers several levels of participation, and machinery from Kawasaki, Suzuki, and Yamaha. More information is available at fastridingschool.com.

World Superbike: YART Yamaha Fielding Fritz, Hanika At Most

David Swarts

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August 4, 2021

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World Superbike: YART Yamaha Fielding Fritz, Hanika At Most

EWC Meets WorldSBK: YART Yamaha to Enter Czech WorldSBK Round with Fritz and Hanika

The YART Yamaha EWC Official Team are gearing up for the this weekend’s FIM Superbike World Championship round at Autodrom Most, Czech Republic, where Marvin Fritz and local star Karel Hanika will make wild card appearances aboard lightly modified versions of the Yamaha R1 bikes they normally race in the FIM Endurance World Championship.

Founded in 2001, the YART Yamaha team have enjoyed huge success in the FIM EWC and were crowned champions in 2009. The team were runners up in the championship last year, winning races in Sepang and Estoril and the YART Yamaha R1 has started five of the last six EWC races from pole position, with riders Fritz and Hanika always amongst the fastest in qualifying.

For their wildcard entries in Most the YART Yamaha bikes have been modified to meet the WorldSBK technical regulations whilst retaining many of the specialist components rarely seen in the WorldSBK paddock, but essential when racing for 24 hours at Le Mans and the Bol d’Or.

For Fritz, this weekend will mark his WorldSBK debut, having spent the last five seasons contesting FIM EWC with the YART Yamaha squad. The German was champion of the IDM Superbike Championship in 2016, while he also won the 2014 IDM Supersport 600 class, both on Yamaha machinery, and he raced at the Czech circuit whilst contesting the 2007 IDM 125cc Championship.

Teammate Hanika, who was born in Brno, has held the lap record at Most since 2019 and will be making his second WorldSBK appearance, having finished in the points at Laguna Seca in 2018. The 25-year-old spent several years in Moto3 after winning the Red Bull Rookies Cup and European Moto3 Championship in 2013. He joined YART Yamaha in EWC last year and was a part of the team’s victories at the 8 Hours of Sepang and 12 Hours of Estoril.

Friday will kick off the weekend’s action with two 45-minute free practice sessions, followed by FP3 on Saturday morning. After the Superpole at 11:10 (GMT+2), Race 1 will get underway at 14:00, while the Superpole Race and Race 2 will start at 11:00 and 15:15 on Sunday.

Marvin Fritz

YART Yamaha

“I’m really looking forward to Most. It’s like a dream come true for me and my first time racing in the World Superbikes – I’ve raced Superstock before but never WorldSBK. I’m excited for the first free practice; I know the level of some of the riders from Suzuka, but it will be interesting to see the difference between the performance of the bikes. I’ve ridden at Most, and I’ve also raced there in the IDM 125cc Championship back in 2007, but I’ve not done that many laps so we will see. The track is really nice, when you come out of the hairpin at the back there’s a good flowing section which is fun. The first chicane is going to be one to watch, you have to brake hard to stop the bike and the asphalt there isn’t so great, which is a bit of a pity because the rest of the lap is a lot of fun. I’d like to say a big thanks to YART Yamaha and everybody for making this happen. I can’t wait to get going.”

Karel Hanika

YART Yamaha

“I’m very happy to get this opportunity to be joining the WorldSBK grid as a wildcard with the YART Yamaha team. Thanks to everyone who’s been behind this, especially Mandy and Yamaha. Most is a track where I’ve had the lap record for around two years, it’s a difficult circuit for sure but it has a nice flow. You must be really hard on the brakes for the first corner, which I think is going to be important for all of the races. The tarmac is overall good, but in the first sector it’s not too great. I believe it will suit our bike well, so I’m looking forward to the weekend and to racing at home in front of the Czech fans.”

Mandy Kainz – CEO & Team Manager

YART Yamaha

“We are looking forward to this new adventure in the FIM Superbike World Championship at Most and we are curious to see how our project ‘Endurance meets WorldSBK’ will go. World championship points would be like a victory for us, as we are clearly inferior on paper. Our target is to see where the two fastest endurance riders on the fastest EWC bike will be placed amongst the WorldSBK runners. Out of our last six EWC races we took five pole positions, with Fritz and Hanika taking the fastest lap times in every single session. That’s why we chose the bikes they know, even if we will lose out in a few small areas compared to the pure WorldSBK machines. We are not expecting any miracles, but we are also not shy to compare ourselves to those around us. We will also have to work with Pirelli, to set up our bike to suit tyres that are new to us. It will be hard work, but we are all very excited.”

Podcast: John Ulrich & Chris Ulrich Featured On Official AMA Podcast

August 5, 2021

John Ulrich, a racer, a race team owner and the Founder, Vice President and Editor of Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology, was presented with the AMA Dud Perkins Lifetime Achievement Award by AMA President and CEO Rob Dingman in a ceremony held in the MotoAmerica paddock Friday, April 21, 2017, at Circuit of The Americas. Photo by David Swarts. — John Ulrich, a racer, a race team owner and the Founder, Vice President and Editor of Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology, was presented with the AMA Dud Perkins Lifetime Achievement Award by AMA President and CEO Rob Dingman April 21, 2017, at Circuit of The Americas. Later in 2017, Ulrich was inducted into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame. Photo by David Swarts.

John Ulrich is one of only a handful of people to win the AMA Dud Perkins Lifetime Achievement Award and be inducted into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame — both of which happened in 2017. His son, Chris, earned the AMA Hazel Kolb Brighter Image Award in 2016. The contributions of this father-son duo go far beyond motorcycle road racing championships and include business excellence, journalism and philanthropy. Tune in to hear their story.

Support the show (https://fs4.formsite.com/AMARacing/form21/index.html)

Australian Superbike: New Event Added Oct. 22-24 At Phillip Island

August 5, 2021

The Australian Superbike Championship is heading to Tasmania in 2021. Photo by Russell Colvin, courtesy ASBK. — The 2022 mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship will not be going to Tasmania in 2022. Photo by Russell Colvin, courtesy ASBK.