Editorial Note: American Julian Correa was eighth-fastest during British Talent Cup testing Saturday at Snetterton. Scroll down to see those test time.
O’Halloran 0.568s under the Snetterton lap record to top times from Sykes
Jason O’Halloran set a blistering pace on the second day of Bennetts British Superbike Championship Official Testing at Snetterton this afternoon, lapping 0.568s under the existing circuit record to top the times by 0.068s for the McAMS Yamaha team.
There was a frantic end to the final session of the day as O’Halloran saved his best until last to post his lap-record breaking time with just under three minutes remaining before the chequered flag.
O’Halloran said: “It has been a really productive day for us and it is nice to be at the top of the timesheets. It wasn’t really part of the plan today, we just ended up there which was good. We worked through a lot of changes so thanks to the team as they put in a really big shift today.
“We are just continually working to see where we can take the bike and gain valuable information for the start of the season. There has been a lot of mental energy put into today and we want to keep improving.”
The Australian had snatched the leading position away from rival Josh Brookes who had been the first rider to dip into the 1m:46s barrier in the session earlier in the afternoon. The double champion had been heading the timesheets in the closing action of the day, before a small crash at Murrays in the final minutes, but he was uninjured and returned to the pitlane.
As Brookes returned to the garage, his teammate Tom Sykes proved he was continuing to get to grips with the Ducati on his return to Bennetts BSB. The former World Champion fired himself into second place and just 0.068s adrift of O’Halloran on his final run of the day.
Bradley Ray continued to hold his position in the top five, setting the fourth fastest time for Rich Energy OMG Racing Yamaha, edging out yesterday’s pace-setter Danny Buchan on the SYNETIQ BMW. The leading five riders setting a pace within the lap record time at the Norfolk circuit.
Rory Skinner was the leading Kawasaki contender in sixth place, as four manufacturers featured in the top six positions after day two on track.
FHO Racing BMW’s Peter Hickman narrowly held off Danny Kent for seventh position, the Buildbase Suzuki rider had a crash at Palmer in the closing stages, but just 0.003s separated the pair at the chequered flag.
Andrew Irwin made it both SYNETIQ BMWs in the leading ten as Tommy Bridewell completed the top ten after day two, with 0.091s covering the top 12 contenders with Kyle Ryde and Christian Iddon.
Former champion Leon Haslam was 15th for the VisionTrack Kawasaki team whilst defending champion Tarran Mackenzie was 16th.
Bennetts British Superbike Championship, R&G Official Test, Snetterton, combined day two result:
Jason O’Halloran (McAMS Yamaha) 1m:46.575s
Tom Sykes (MCE Ducati) +0.068s
Josh Brookes (MCE Ducati) +0.111s
Bradley Ray (Rich Energy OMG Racing Yamaha) +0.456s
Danny Buchan (SYNETIQ BMW) +0.536s
Rory Skinner (FS-3 Racing Kawasaki) +0.699s
Peter Hickman (FHO Racing BMW) +0.739s
Danny Kent (Buildbase Suzuki) +0.742s
Andrew Irwin (SYNETIQ BMW) +0.832s
Tommy Bridewell (Oxford Products Racing Ducati) +0.837s
For more information on the Bennetts British Superbike Championship visit www.britishsuperbike.com
Razgatlioglu tops rain-affected Day 2 at Catalunya as all five manufacturers make the top seven
The rain fell and interrupted running on the second day at Catalunya as Razgatlioglu topped the times on Saturday
The MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship continued testing at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya with rain interrupting the second day of action in Spain. Reigning Champion Toprak Razgatlioglu (Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK) topped the timesheets with the fastest lap of the day coming before the rain fell which limited running as the time ticked over into the afternoon.
FIVE MANUFACTURERS IN THE TOP SEVEN
In a show of what WorldSBK could be like in 2022, five manufacturers finished inside the top seven positions on day two. Razgatlioglu’s fastest time was a 1’40.571s as he completed 51 laps with Yamaha trialling a new exhaust throughout the test as well as continuing to work on their electronics package. Teammate Andrea Locatelli was 11th for the second day as he, like his teammate, worked on Yamaha’s electronics package. Both Razgatlioglu and Locatelli ventured out into the wet on Saturday. The Pata Yamaha team were not the only Yamaha representation in the top five, with Garrett Gerloff (GRT GYRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) in fifth place. Gerloff was testing in the wet conditions to trial Yamaha’s electronics package. Teammate Kohta Nozane also ventured out into the wet, posting a best time of 1’42.509s.
Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) put his Panigale V4 R machine into second place as the team looked to focus on a modified swingarm compared to the one seen at Portimao as well as new items inside the front forks. Bautista completed 67 laps and posted a best time of 1’40.952s to claim second spot. Teammate Michael Ruben Rinaldi made it two Ducatis in the top six as he finished sixth with a best time of 1’41.610s. He completed 34 laps on day two, opting not to test in the wet conditions.
Team HRC showed strong pace on Saturday with two riders in the top eight. Iker Lecuona claimed third spot with a best time of 1’41.033s and 62 laps completed, while Xavi Vierge was eighth after completing 55 laps. Vierge’s day came to an early end on Saturday after he had a highside crash at Turn 12, bringing out the Red Flags for a short period. Vierge was initially taken to the medical centre for a check-up before being transported to hospital with rib injuries, although he was conscious. Honda tested some new double ducts on their brakes on day one of the test to assist with cooling in hotter conditions, while the CBR1000RR-R also has a new exhaust for 2022.
At the team’s home circuit, Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK claimed fourth with Jonathan Rea on day two of the two-day test after posting a 1’41.168s and completing 32 laps. Throughout the test, Rea tried the fuel tanks fins used by teammate Alex Lowes as well as trying small components including on the clutch. Lowes finished the day in 12th place, with a best time of 1’41.99s and 36 laps to his name. Both riders opted against testing in the afternoon after the rain fell.
Scott Redding (BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) overcame technical issues in the morning to finish in seventh place for the day, racking up 50 laps and posting a best lap time of 1’41.636s. Redding spent day one working on BMW’s electronics package and was hoping for dry running to keep the momentum heading in the right direction. Despite not staying dry, Redding did test in the wet conditions while stand-in teammate Ilya Mikhalchik finished his day when the rain came. The Ukrainian rider’s best time was a 1’42.763s and he completed 16 laps.
INDEPENDENT SQUADS ROUND OUT THE TOP TEN
There were two Independent riders who rounded out the top ten on day two in Barcelona. German rookie Philipp Oettl (Team GoEleven) claimed ninth place as he looked to continue evaluating a new exhaust after the team switched to Spark over the winter. Oettl took advantage of the wet conditions in the afternoon to get some wet-weather practice in, having never ridden a WorldSBK machine in wet conditions before. His best time was a 1’41.735s with 55 laps to his name.
Lucas Mahias (Kawasaki Puccetti Racing) took a different approach to the afternoon’s running after the rain, with the Frenchman ending his day early. Over the winter, Kawasaki Puccetti switched suspension suppliers to Öhlins, with Mahias continuing to evaluate this change in Catalunya. Mahias posted a best time just 0.009s shy of Oettl while adding 23 laps to his tally.
ROUNDING OUT THE WorldSBK FIELD ON DAY TWO…
Bonovo Action BMW duo Eugene Laverty and Loris Baz were 15th and 16th respectively on the second day. Laverty had been working on a change of rider position throughout the test while working on some traction control strategies on day one. The Irishman completed 30 laps on day two, with a best time of 1’43.305s, while Baz was half-a-second down on his teammate as the Frenchman completed 29 laps; neither ventured out onto the track in the wet conditions.
Sammarinese rookie Luca Bernardi (Barni Spark Racing Team) was 17th on day two as he continued to adjust to WorldSBK action. He posted a best time of 1’43.823s, completing 23 laps but not taking to the wet track. His time was a second clear of fellow rookie Oliver König (Orelac Racing VerdNatura) who added 34 laps to his tally; like Bernardi, König did not go out in the rain.
Now entering his second season in WorldSBK, Loris Cresson (TPR Team Pedercini Racing) was 19th on his ZX-10RR. the Belgian rider had a highside crash at Turn 2 on day one in the change of direction but was okay to ride on Saturday, finishing as the penultimate rider in the field. Malaysian rider Hafizh Syahrin (MIE Racing Honda Team) was last in the WorldSBK classification, completing 49 laps with a best time of 1’45.539s.
RACE LAP RECORD PACE FOR BULEGA
Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing WorldSSP Team) continued his form of lapping under existing race lap records throughout testing as he sent the benchmark in WorldSSP on day two. His best time was a 1’45.110s, faster than both Cresson and Syahrin, as he added 38 laps to his tally. He was the only WorldSSP rider to hit the track in the wet conditions, with Raffaele De Rosa (Ducati Orelac Racing VerdNatura) and Oli Bayliss (Barni Spark Racing Team) opting to not test in the afternoon. De Rosa’s best time was a 1’46.971s, almost two seconds back from Bulega, while Bayliss posted a 1’47.253s as his best time.
More, from a press release issued by Kawasaki:
KRT Ready To Race After Catalunya Test
Kawasaki’s official WorldSBK riders Jonathan Rea and Alex Lowes left the final private winter tests of the 2022 season in confident mood after two days at their Kawasaki Racing Team’s local track, Circuit de Barcelona – Catalunya.
A dry opening day on Friday 25 March at the 4.657km long venue, situated just a few hundred yards from the team’s HQ, provided both KRT riders and the vast majority of their 2022 rivals consistent track conditions to work with.
The second day started out dry, but cooler than day one, with the expected rains finally appearing in the middle of the day, ending all meaningful track action.
On the 2022 Ninja ZX-10RR six-times World Champion Rea set his best time of 1’41.062 on Day One of the tests. That put him overall second fastest at that stage, before finishing up fourth quickest in the combined times.
Rea and his crew confirmed their season-starting base settings before making more specific set-up steps to race at Barcelona in the autumn. Rea also worked on some tyre options, to be ready for whatever the real race conditions will provide when the championship heads there to race.
A now fully fit Lowes worked on his machine set-up with his pit crew throughout the test. Like his team-mate Jonathan, Alex set his best lap time – a 1’41.664 – on the slightly warmer opening day.
Even though Lowes lost some potential track time to the rains that arrived just after 12.00 he leaves Catalunya in a positive and motivated frame of mind, and fully fit after a 2021 season which was impacted by injury.
Catalunya will ultimately host Round Eight of the WorldSBK championship between 23-25 September.
The final pre-season on-track preparations will be made at the Organiser’s Supported test days at Motorland Aragon, between 4-5 April. The first round of the season will take place at that same venue, from 8-10 April.
Jonathan Rea (65). Photo courtesy Kawasaki.
Jonathan Rea, stated: “I had a good feeling here. We confirmed the items that we had found positive results with in both the Jerez and Portimao tests. The weather conditions were not perfect here and the temperature was quite low, but we were able to make a lot of laps, especially on Day One. Day Two was colder but we kept working with the base of the bike. I did some more practice starts on Day Two, so that is getting better. We made some progress in that area. I ended the test with a good feeling on the bike and I am really excited to go to Aragon. Everybody there will have the same strategy – to set-up for the weekend and then go into Free Practice 1. It has been a long but exciting off-season, with a lot of testing, and I have been healthy throughout. I am thankful to the team for all the hard work they have done. Now we get to go to a race weekend very soon. Thanks for the big effort, to everyone in KRT.”
Alex Lowes (22). Photo courtesy Kawasaki.
Alex Lowes, stated: “We had a good first day here. We did lot of laps, consistent laps, and confirmed a lot of the changes we had made in the previous winter tests. This morning we were limited on track time, and we wanted to try some different things on the back of the bike. The forecast had been quite bad so we were happy to get the good laps we did on the final day. The laps we did get were better than we expected after the weather forecast. I am ready to go now in Motorland Aragon in a couple of weeks. It has been nice to do a proper test with lots of good laps. My previous injuries feel good, my body feels good and that means I am ready to racing.”
Pere Riba, Crew Chief for Jonathan Rea, stated: “This is the first test that all manufacturers, teams and riders have attended. Everybody was here, so it has been a little bit different compared to the previous ones. The riders always check the lap times, who is in front, which tyre the others are using. At this track the difference between times on the soft and hard tyres are quite big. Yesterday everybody was making a fast time on the soft tyres but this is maybe not realistic. The race in 19 laps, not five. We focused on our own testing. The first thing was to confirm the things we had already tested at Jerez and Portimao. The result has been positive. Then we also tried to understand some changes in the set-up, thinking about race weekend. We worked on the soft tyres and the hard tyres, so we can be ready for whatever we use when we come back to race here. We collected very good information, we did a race simulation, and we have the base package to start the championship in Motorland Aragon. We will check that again in the two days of official testing there. We feel ready. For sure this year will be very tough, as many people are going fast, but we are all happy.”
Marcel Duinker, Crew Chief for Alex Lowes, stated: “We had an early finish because it started to spit a bit with rain at lunchtime. It was a good test because Catalunya has always been hard for us in the past, but we arrived here with a clear idea about what our base bike would be for the first race in Aragon. We just had another opportunity to test some important items again on a different track. That is what we did on Day One. We had a nice day then, did a lot of laps and we had the same results from all our new components, like we had at Jerez and Portimao. We are confident we can say that our bike specification for Race One is done. Alex did a lot of laps on the first day and he was very fit from the first lap to the last. I appreciate and admire the efforts he has made over the winter to prepare himself. Now we are looking forward to Aragon. We are ready to start the season.”
Lucas Mahias (Kawasaki Puccetti Racing) was also at the Catalunya tests, posting strong times as the Frenchman approaches his second WorldSBK season in his Italian-based team. Independent riders Loris Cresson (TPR Team Pedercini Racing) and Oliver König (Orelac Racing VerdNatura) also made their final private tests of the pre-season on their Ninja ZX-10RR machines.
More, from a press release issued by GRT GYTR Yamaha WorldSBK Team:
GOOD PROGRESS MADE AT PENULTIMATE TEST IN BARCELONA FOR GERLOFF AND NOZANE
Garrett Gerloff (31). Photo courtesy GRT GYTR Yamaha WorldSBK Team.
The renewed GRT GYTR Yamaha WorldSBK Team concluded its penultimate test at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya on 25-26 March with over 20 riders involved as the start of the 2022 FIM Superbike World Championship gets ever closer. Kohta Nozane and Garrett Gerloff could finally run their Yamaha R1 bikes with the new liveries, following the official Team Launch on 24 March.
On the first day, both riders could run in good weather conditions, but the low grip made it difficult to maximise their potential. With track open from 10:00 to 18:00, without any break, and just a little stop at the end of the day due to a red flag, Gerloff and Nozane were able to continue the work done at the Misano World Circuit just one week ago.
Therefore, Gerloff set a 1’41.229 (85 laps), despite a small crash in the middle of the day at Turn 10. Anyway, that didn’t prevent the American rider from finding pace, ending Day 1 third fastest. On the other side of the box, Nozane picked up his rhythm run after run, and finished with a 1’42.428 (74 laps), which saw him go 14th.
On Day 2, despite the overcast conditions, the rain held off in the morning and Gerloff kept working on his pace to go fifth fastest with a 1’41.320 (45 laps). Teammate Nozane did the same and was 14th overall on a 1’42.509 after 25 laps.
Just before the halfway stage, heavy rain disrupted the remainder of the test. That didn’t prevent the team from running though, and both Nozane and Gerloff went out with the Pirelli rain tyres to test the new Yamaha R1 in wet conditions. In the afternoon, the Japanese rider recorded a 1’57.208 (20 laps), while the American did a 1’56.332 (17 laps), with the team opting to end the test prematurely due to the colder conditions.
From now on, the last step for the GRT GYTR Yamaha WorldSBK Team before the 2022 FIM World Superbike Championship season commences will be the official Aragòn test set for 4-5 April, which will also host the opening round on 8-10 April.
Garrett Gerloff: “Day 1 here in Barcelona wasn’t the easiest as the track didn’t have much grip. Anyway, we did a good job and I’m glad the things we tried in Misano worked here as well. We kept working on the electronics, and we made step forward with that. I’m happy that we were able to try numerous parts and settings, and the race pace was good as well. I had a small crash on the first day at Turn 10, but that didn’t stop us from getting everything done. On Day 2 we continued with our schedule, confirming the improvements we’ve made. Moreover, we could do some laps in the wet condition and it was important because we needed the data. We’re in a good spot, and now I’m focused on the final test at Motorland Aragòn.”
Kohta Nozane: “The first day was a bit more difficult than expected. At the Misano World Circuit the track had good grip, but here in Barcelona the asphalt was very green. Anyway, we kept working and took some positives from this test. We were able to complete some laps in the rain too, which was important as we might face wet conditions during the season and we need to be ready for that. Now I’ll keep working to be prepared for the final test before the beginning of the championship.”
Filippo Conti: “It was very emotional to see our new Yamaha R1 bikes on track after the official unveiling on 24 March. Overall, it was once again a good test and we had the chance to ride in wet conditions as well. Testing in every condition is really important to be as prepared as possible for the upcoming season. In just one week we’ll have the final test in Aragòn and then the 2022 season will get underway. We’re more than ready and I would like to thank the whole crew for the massive job they’re doing, Yamaha and every partner which is believing in our project.”
More, from a press release issued by BMW Motorrad Motorsport:
BMW Motorrad Motorsport continues WorldSBK season preparations with two day of testing at Barcelona.
BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team and Bonovo action BMW Racing Team in action at the two-day test in Spain.
Ilya Mikhalchik stands in for injured Michael van der Mark.
Marc Bongers: “In general, we are happy but we still have to work on the pace to get closer to the top”.
Barcelona. BMW Motorrad Motorsport continued is preparations for the 2022 FIM Superbike World Championship with two days of testing at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya (ESP). The BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team and the Bonovo action BMW Racing Team again had a comprehensive test schedule and evaluated numerous new components and set-up solutions for the BMW M 1000 RR. The weather was mainly dry with some rain only on the afternoon of the second day.
At Scott Redding’s (GBR) side, BMW Motorrad factory rider Ilya Mikhalchik (UKR) stood in for injured Michael van der Mark (NED) in the BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team. Together with the two Bonovo action BMW Racing Team riders, Eugene Laverty (IRL) and Loris Baz (FRA), they worked, among other things, on rims, wiring loom and electronics and tested several chassis components.
The next test is scheduled for 4th and 5th April at MotorLand Aragón (ESP). The same venue will host the 2022 WorldSBK season opener from 8th to 10th April.
Quotes after the Barcelona test. Marc Bongers, BMW Motorrad Motorsport Director: “Ilya did a solid job. He worked through several test items for us and got used to the Superbike. He completed many kilometres and we made good progress with him. In the end, he was the second-fastest BMW rider in the dry. Michael’s surgery was successful but we don’t know yet when he can ride again. In case he can’t, Ilya would be a potential substitute for the season opener. On Scott’s side, the test went partly positively, partly we have still some work to do. We confirmed the engine with all riders as a positive step. We also were strong in regards to top speed but we clearly lose in sectors two and four, especially when accelerating out of the fast corners. Here we definitely still have to work on our package, in combination with set-up and traction control. We were able to go through a lot of test items also with the Bonovo action BMW Racing Team. Loris unfortunately had a crash that cost him a lot of time. In addition, we had some minor technical issues here and there, but that’s the purpose of the tests, to identify them at an early stage. Those were topics we can well react on. In general, we are happy but we still have to work on the pace to close up to the top.”
Scott Redding, BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team: “It was good to have two days of testing here in Barcelona. We have made some improvements with the bike and the electronics which is important for me and the team. Then we had to try a few test items, tried the different tyres to get a feeling, tried again the electronics. We worked a lot and we did make some improvements which is good. But the goal post is always moving. You close the gap to the first one and then someone goes faster again. But we have to look at our situation, what we are doing and how we are improving. That’s where we need to focus. Then we had some rain in the afternoon of the second day which was interesting. It was good for me to get on the wet track and just get the feeling. It’s not too different to how it was in the past. I felt quite good. We need to do a bit more with the set-up and stuff but the temperature dropped quite a lot so we decided to test some other parts, practice starts a bit more because I haven’t done many starts on this bike and then we improved which was good. We also tried some other things for the conditions. In general, we did quite a lot but we still have more to do. We are moving on to Aragón, and I think we have some more things that we need to confirm there.”
Ilya Mikhalchik, BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team: “First of all I want to say a big thank you to BMW Motorrad Motorsport and the team for giving me this opportunity, and secondly a speedy recovery and a get well soon to Michael. I hope he can back on his bike soon. I am happy to be here and for sure, the World Superbike is completely different. You need to know how to work on this bike to go fast. We got this feeling more with every lap we did. Lap by lap I felt where we should go and this brought me more speed and more fun on the bike. Hopefully we can continue in the same way and soon I will get more confidence and will be faster on the bike. Barcelona was a new track for me and it was a kind of a new bike, but I enjoyed it and really felt like home. At the next test at Aragón, we know each other already, I am acquainted to the bike so I think this will be a small advantage for me there and our work will be even better than here.”
Eugene Laverty, Bonovo action BMW Racing Team: “Especially the first day was really good. We continued our progress from Misano day two in the same direction. We improved the braking again and in the afternoon we worked a lot on electronic strategies to help because this asphalt is usually slippery so it was a big chance to work on power reduction and traction control to improve that for the 20-lap races. We made good lap times. Still it’s too far to the top, we need to reduce this, but I am happy with the way the Bonovo action BMW Racing Team is working and it was positive.”
Loris Baz, Bonovo action BMW Racing Team: “Yesterday morning, we did a quite a good job. At the beginning, I did not have the feeling I wanted with the bike. We improved this, I was pretty fast, but then I made a small mistake and crashed in an in-lap. That was basically the end of our test because we were not able to re-start after the crash yesterday. This morning we had some issues due to the crash I guess. We did in and out-laps trying to find the problem today. It is frustrating but for sure it is better to happen here than at Aragón. Before the crash we were pretty fast, not as fast as we want for sure, but on a track where the grip is so low, I think that’s our weakest point at the moment and we need to improve in these kinds of conditions. It has not been a productive test like Jerez or Misano but sometimes this happens. I am looking forward to Aragón now.”
More, from a press release issued by Aruba.it Racing Ducati:
Bautista ends second the private tests in Barcelona. Rinaldi sixth. Bulega (WorldSSP) also does well with the Panigale V2.
The last private tests of the 2022 pre-season ended today at the Circuit de Barcelona Catalunya (Spain).
The Aruba.it Racing – Ducati team riders worked profitably on their Ducati Panigale V4R during the two intense days (with cold temperature).
Alvaro Bautista also had the chance to lap in wet conditions after the heavy rain that fell during the lunch break today.
DAY-1
Alvaro Bautista and Michael Rinaldi took to the track on their Ducati Panigale V4R and immediately showed a good feeling.
The Spanish rider completed 93 laps, recording an extremely convincing race pace and finishing with a best time of 1’40.824 using race tyres.
Michael Rinaldi also lapped consistently, finishing fourth at the end of the day after completing 80 laps.
Day-1 Standings
1 – A. Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) 1’40.824
2 – J. Rea (Kawasaki) 1’41.062
3 – G. Gerloff (Yamaha) 1’41.229
4 – M. Rinaldi (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) 1’41.360
5 – T. Razgatlioglu (Yamaha) 1’41.523
DAY-2
Despite the very low temperature, both Bautista and Rinaldi were still able to push hard continuing to work on race tyres, without using the new qualifying tyre introduced by Pirelli (SCQ).
In the afternoon Bautista returned to the track in wet conditions and concluded 18 LAPS
Day-2 Standings
1 – T. Razgatlioglu (Yamaha) 1’40.571
2 – A. Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) 1’40.952
3 – I. Lecuona (Honda) 1’41.033
4 – J. Rea (Kawasaki) 1’41.168
5 – G. Gerloff (Yamaha) 1’41.320
6 – M. Rinaldi (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) 1’41.610 Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati #19)
“I’m satisfied with these two days of testing. We’ve worked a lot on the bike, trying some interesting solutions that have given positive results. We’ve also tried the new rear tyre that Pirelli should bring to Barcelona round, although obviously, the weather conditions will be different. We are making constant progress and this gives us great confidence. Let’s go to the Aragon tests to fix the last details that will allow us to be ready for the first round”.
Michael Rinaldi (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati #21)
“It’s been a profitable test in which we’ve worked especially in view Aragon race. This morning, unfortunately, I could not try to set the time with the SCX due to the rain. In any case, the feeling has improved since the Misano test and I feel we have taken a big step forward. For sure we are not at our 100% yet and that’s why the Aragon tests will be very important. * I have the feeling we are* on the right track. We just have to continue working in this direction”.
#WorldSSP
Concrete steps forward for Nicolò Bulega who completed 111 laps, increasing the feeling with the Ducati Panigale V2 of the Aruba.it Racing WSSP team. Although the asphalt was much colder than yesterday, the Italian rider was able to lower the time recorded in day-1 by more than three tenths, closing with an interesting 1’45.110. This afternoon Bulega had the chance to test the Ducati Panigale V2 for the first time in wet conditions.
Nicolò Bulega (Aruba.it Racing WSSP team)
“I’m satisfied with what we did both yesterday and today. We have worked well and understood many things. Maybe we’re not as close to the fastest times as we have been on other circuits but it’s clear that the temperature didn’t help us. The balance of these tests, in any case, is positive, also because I was able to ride the Panigale V2 for the first time in wet conditions”.
More, from a press release issued by Team HRC:
Team HRC completes its penultimate pre-season test in Barcelona
Team HRC has shared the Barcelona-Catalunya circuit with many other WorldSBK teams during the penultimate pre-season test, with the final sessions scheduled to take place at Motorland Aragón on Monday 4 and Tuesday 5 April before round 1 of the 2022 Superbike World Championship gets underway at the same track on Friday 8 April.
After a couple of weeks of rain and mixed weather conditions in the local area, the squad was lucky enough to enjoy a dry, albeit windy and cool, first day of testing on Friday, with temperatures of around 16°C. Saturday on the other hand brought colder conditions and cloudy skies, before it began to rain around midday.
During the intense one and half day of dry testing, riders Iker Lecuona and Xavi Vierge worked hard with their respective crews as they focused on various aspects of the bike’s set-up and continued to adapt to what is a new category for them both. Having put in a qualifying tyre, Lecuona ultimately set the third fastest time in the combined classification (1’41.033), while Xavi Vierge finished 10 overall with a best time of 1’41.719.
In the afternoon, and considering the worsening weather, both riders took the opportunity to try out some rain set-ups and wet tyres. The conditions proved tricky for Xavi Vierge however, and the Spaniard suffered his first fall since joining the team. Despite the turn 12 crash not appearing to be particularly major, Xavi reported a strong pain to his ribs and was therefore taken first to the medical centre and then to the Sant Cugat Barcelona Hospital for further checks. The x-rays reported a fracture to his twelfth rib. The plan is to start immediately with physiotherapy and rehabilitation so as to be back on track as soon as possible.
The next week the team will move on to the Motorland Aragón circuit for a final pre-season test session before the 2022 WorldSBK Championship season opener takes place on 8-10 April.
Iker Lecuona 7
“On day one, we worked on every aspect of the bike set-up in order to adapt to the Montmelo circuit, looking to improve particularly in terms of the braking, and corner speed too. The feeling has been different compared to Jerez and Portimão, and the weather was not as good as it was during previous tests, but we worked really hard on the bike all the same. I’m also focusing on myself, in terms of adapting to the aspects of this category that are very different to what I was used to, like the electronics for example. I also need to understand the Pirelli tyres a bit better, but we are getting there. Day by day I feel better on the bike and I’m also very happy with the team; they support me at all times and in every way. On Saturday it was good to have a dry morning session, during which we worked to fine tune the set-up before putting in a soft tyre to make a flying lap. I was happy with that lap time but of course it’s just a single lap and in a race you must be fast from start to finish. After lunch the rain came, so let’s say that the afternoon was a good opportunity to learn more about the wet tyres and wet settings. We have room to improve there, so we must keep working. We will now approach Aragón with an open mind, well aware that we still have work to do but also that we have worked well in recent months and will continue to do our best to keep improving throughout the season”.
Xavi Vierge 97
“The crash was a real shame and came at the end of what’s been a constructive testing session. Yesterday we had the first good weather we’ve seen for a while and were able to make the most of it. Montmelo is kind of a home track for me, but also a new track for me on the CBR, so the first goal was to build confidence with the bike and understand the areas where we need to work and improve the set-up. We focused on those aspects and took some steps forwards over the two days, getting into quite a good rhythm and collating a lot of information. On Saturday afternoon the conditions worsened and after lunch the rain came. We took the opportunity to work on some rain set-ups and wet Pirelli tyres but unfortunately, I suffered a crash which has left me in quite a bit of pain. I will start immediately with physiotherapy and rehabilitation so as to be back on track as soon as possible”.
More, from a press release issued by Yamaha:
Razgatlıoğlu Sets Blistering Pace in Barcelona Test with 2022 Pata Yamaha with Brixx R1 WorldSBK
Defending WorldSBK Champion Toprak Razgatlıoğlu set the fastest lap time across two days of pre-testing at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, as he and Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK teammate Andrea Locatelli continued preparations for start of the 2022 FIM Superbike World Championship in Spain.
Razgatlıoğlu took to the track for the first time with #1 on his Yamaha R1 WorldSBK yesterday, completing 82 of his total 133 laps – but it was today that the team found a step forward. This enabled him to post the 1’40.571 lap-time which saw him take the number one spot, ahead of 19 riders from the full 24-strong WorldSBK field in attendance. The Turkish ace ended the test more than two-tenths clear of nearest rival Alvaro Bautista (Ducati).
Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK and Yamaha Motor Europe’s Research & Development engineers worked hard across the two days of testing to finalise electronic and mechanical upgrades for the 2022 season, making progress in both dry and wet conditions as rain fell from midday today.
Despite two crashes hampering Locatelli’s pre-season preparations and ending his day early yesterday, the #55 crew were able to re-join the action this morning and shift their focus to help deliver positive pace in wet conditions. The Italian completed a total of 117 laps of the 4.657 km venue.
The official WorldSBK test at MotorLand Aragon will provide two further days of testing before the opening round of the 2022 season, which takes place at the same venue from 8-10 April.
Toprak Razgatlıoğlu: P1 (1’40.571) – 133 laps
Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK
“Yesterday for me was not an easy day because we tried to find the set up, but the feeling was not so good. But, this morning the start was very positive because we find a good set-up and see the problem – and also very good lap time for me! After, we try also the new tyre from Pirelli but then the rain started. We could try the new electronic in wet condition, which was also working very good. We are also improving set-up again with electronics and I’m very happy today. It’s a good feeling and looks ready to race. We have one more test in Aragon, where we will try some new set-up and new parts.”
Andrea Locatelli: P12 (1’41.865) – 117 laps
Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK
“Yesterday morning we were fast and the feeling was great! I had a small crash in the morning, but it was ok. In the afternoon I struggled a little bit with the feeling and we had some problems which meant we lost a lot of time on track. It was quite a strange day for us but today we tried to restart fresh. Unfortunately we had another small problem and lost more time in the morning. In the middle of the day it started to rain and it meant we could do some laps in the wet. The feeling was good and in general after the two days I am really happy because in the rain we rode really well, so this is another good point. We tried the updated electronics, we tried everything and the feeling is good. Now in Aragon, we will reset everything and start again – not from zero because we have a base set-up and a lot of good parts – but we have two days to focus on the bike in the official test and prepare. In the end we were a little unlucky here in Barcelona but it’s the life! We’ve already tested in Aragon so we have more of an idea, we will finish the work there and start ready for the first race of the season.”
Phil Marron – #1 Crew Chief
Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK
“Yesterday we understood a few limitations with the bike, and fortunately, we were able to figure out the direction that we needed to go for today. We had a very unhappy rider last night and on the first few exits today, he was reasonably happy though not quite convinced with the package – but towards the afternoon, Toprak was quite content with the progress made with the electronics package and the hardware package on the R1 WorldSBK. We were fortunate to get a chance to try the upgraded electronics in the wet and that was very beneficial not only for Toprak to understand it, but for us as well. He got a chance to get his head around it and we get a chance to really get our teeth into it from an analysis point of view. We still have work to do in Aragon, and what we’ve done here has helped us but the fact that we’ve already been to Aragon is bound to help as well, so we’re looking forward to getting there.”
Andrew Pitt – #55 Crew Chief
Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK
“On Locatelli’s side, the first half of the day went really well yesterday as we worked through our programme and got some very good, clear information. We improved the bike and he was really happy with it, running right at the front. We put a soft tyre in and tried to push for a lap time, and unfortunately Loka just lost the front into Turn 1 and did quite a lot of damage on his main bike. We lost a bit of momentum at that point, working to transfer the latest updates for his second bike – which then had some problems in the afternoon and the day ended with a crash at Turn 4. It was a late night to get everything ready for today and a little bit frustrating as we only got one good run in before the rain came. But on the positive side, we did focus on some runs this afternoon in the wet. Loka didn’t have a good feeling in Race 1 here last year and has never been super happy on the bike in the wet, but today he went out and within two laps had a really good feeling and went really quick. Electronically, the feeling is very good, the base is very good and we’ve got a set-up that works. Riding this afternoon in the wet helped him a lot and now we’ll get the bikes ready for Aragon. We know we have a good base there from the test, so we just need to come out and hit the ground running to work on speed and fine tuning.”
For the first time since 2019, the Tokyo Motorcycle Show opened Friday at the Tokyo Big Sight in the bay area of Tokyo, Japan. Photographer Kohei Hirota attended the opening day and submitted the following photos.
Fans stream into the main exhibit area Friday at the Tokyo Motorcycle Show. Photo by Kohei Hirota.Arai had a large display area. Photo by Kohei Hirota.
Some of the Arai helmets on display, including the Nicky Hayden “Reset” replica. Photo by Kohei Hirota.BMW’s CE 04 electric scooter. Photo by Kohei Hirota.The Dunlop motorcycle tire exhibit at the Tokyo Motorcycle Show. Photo by Kohei Hirota.Ducati Japan did not have a display, but there was a Ducati Panigale V4 R showing off some carbon-fiber wheels and an aftermarket exhaust system. Photo by Kohei Hirota.An Energica Ego electric sportbike on display in Tokyo. Photo by Kohei Hirota.A Harley-Davidson dealer in Japan built this road-going replica of Kyle Wyman’s MotoAmerica King Of The Baggers Championship-winning Screamin’ Eagle Road Glide. Photo by Kohei Hirota.A 30th Anniversary Edition Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP next to a 1992 Honda CBR900RR. Photo by Kohei Hirota.We haven’t received anything about this neo cafe racer from Honda, but it’s called the Hawk 11 and it shares the 1,084cc parallel twin engine and basic chassis with the Africa Twin. Photo by Kohei Hirota.IXON leathers had one of Takaaki Nakagami’s LCR Honda RC213V MotoGP racebikes on display. Photo by Kohei Hirota.This is Kawasaki’s ZX-25R, a high-revving 249cc inline four-cylinder sportbike that’s available in some markets outside of the U.S. Photo by Kohei Hirota.KTM’s display area at the Tokyo Motorcycle Show. Photo by Kohei Hirota.One of Marc Marquez’s actual Shoei race helmets on display. Photo by Kohei Hirota.Several racebikes draw attention to a display promoting the MFJ All-Japan Superbike Championship event April 2-3 at Motegi. Photo by Kohei Hirota.There were several sponsored racebikes on display in NGK Spark Plug’s area, including bikes identified as belonging to Jonathan Rea, Mark Marquez, Fabio Quartararo (20), and Joan Mir (36). Photo by Kohei Hirota.Öhlins has a large display area at the Tokyo Motorcycle Show. Photo by Kohei Hirota.Another one of the Monster Energy Yamaha YZR-M1 racebikes belonging to 2021 MotoGP World Champion Fabio Quartararo. There were at least three on display in different areas of the show Friday. Photo by Kohei Hirota.Shoei showcased its new heads-up display system in Tokyo. Details were not immediately available. Photo by Kohei Hirota.A Shoei helmet fitted with a new heads-up display system. Details were not immediately available. Photo by Kohei Hirota.The Yoshimura SERT Motul Suzuki GSX-R1000 endurance racebike with the 2021 FIM Endurance World Championship trophy and one of the Joan Mir ECSTAR Suzuki GSX-RR MotoGP racebikes on display at the show. Photo by Kohei Hirota.A closeup of some of the front-end hardware on the Yoshimura SERT Motul Suzuki GSX-R1000 endurance racebike. Photo by Kohei Hirota.Another view of one of Joan Mir’s ECSTAR Suzuki GSX-RR MotoGP racebikes. Photo by Kohei Hirota.One of Triumph’s new Tiger 1200 models. Photo by Kohei Hirota.
Another one of Fabio Quartararo’s Monster Energy Yamaha YZR-M1s in the Yamaha display next to Katsuyuki Nakasuga’s 2021 title-winning YZF-R1 All-Japan Superbike. Photo by Kohei Hirota.Another view of 2021 All-Japan Superbike Champion Katsuyuki Nakasuga’s Yamaha YZF-R1 Superbike. Photo by Kohei Hirota.The new YZF-R7 was highlighted in Yamaha’s display area at the show. Photo by Kohei Hirota.
2022 is go! Buchan leads the way on the opening day at Snetterton
Danny Buchan kick started his 2022 Bennetts British Superbike Championship season by topping the opening day of Official Testing at Snetterton, optimising the open pitlane track time to set the benchmark, edging Bradley Ray by 0.091s at the top of the timesheets.
Buchan had consistently stayed at the top of the times, but as the afternoon session ticked down, Ray surged up the order into second place as he experienced the Rich Energy OMG Racing Yamaha for the first time, easing Peter Hickman into third.
Hickman held third place at the end of the opening day for the FHO Racing BMW team after running at the top of the times earlier in the session.
SYNETIQ BMW’s Buchan said: “The plan was to work through some components this afternoon and we stuck some new bits on the bike – some we liked, some we didn’t, we ended up with quite a good lap time so I was quite happy. It is only testing, but everybody is still out there and everybody is still trying so we will see what we can improve on tomorrow.”
Rory Skinner bounced back from a morning crash to finish fourth fastest for the FS-3 Racing Kawasaki team, just ahead of Jason O’Halloran on the leading McAMS Yamaha who completed the top five. Defending champion Tarran Mackenzie posted the 13th fastest time.
Leon Haslam had a strong start to his return to the Championship, positing the sixth fastest time as he made his debut with the VisionTrack Kawasaki team at their home circuit.
Danny Kent led the Buildbase Suzuki charge in seventh place, pipping Tommy Bridewell on the Oxford Products Racing Ducati.
Tom Sykes made his much-anticipated debut with the MCE Ducati team, getting his first taste of the BSB-spec Ducati as he recorded the ninth fastest time with Christian Iddon completing the top ten on the second Buildbase Suzuki.
Bennetts British Superbike Championship, R&G Official Test, Snetterton, Friday combined result:
Danny Buchan (SYNETIQ BMW) 1:47.380s
Bradley Ray (Rich Energy OMG Racing Yamaha) +0.091s
Peter Hickman (FHO Racing BMW) +0.357s
Rory Skinner (FS-3 Racing Kawasaki) +0.438s
Jason O’Halloran (McAMS Yamaha) +0.455s
Leon Haslam (VisionTrack Kawasaki) 0.584s
Danny Kent (Buildbase Suzuki) +0.624s
Tommy Bridewell (Oxford Products Racing Ducati) +0.655s
Tom Sykes (MCE Ducati) +0.666s
Christian Iddon (Buildbase Suzuki) +0.760s
For more information on the Bennetts British Superbike Championship visit www.britishsuperbike.com
WILBUR Watch Co. Named The Official Timing & Scoring Partner Of MotoAmerica
High-End Watch Company Will Also Present Watches With Its Fastest Qualifier Award
IRVINE, CA – MotoAmerica, North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series, is thrilled to announce that the WILBUR Watch Co. is now the Official Timing & Scoring partner of the 2022 Auto Parts 4 Less MotoAmerica Championship.
Based in San Diego, California, WILBUR Watch Co. designs, builds, and sells unique high-end watches that combine art and science in timepieces that are fearless. The company is led by award-winning designer and company CEO Jason Wilbur with an eye towards creating emotionally and technically exciting pieces that translate into what WILBUR says are “watches that could be, not what the industry says a watch should be.”
With WILBUR a natural fit as the Official Timing & Scoring partner of MotoAmerica, the watchmaking company has taken it a step further and will present the WILBUR Fastest Qualifier Award to a select-rider who earns pole position at each round. The award will rotate through the six MotoAmerica classes, with the class to be announced the week prior to each event. The pole-sitter will earn an ultra-limited WILBUR Speed Shop (SS) Modified watch.
“It’s exciting that WILBUR has joined us as our Official Timing & Scoring partner,” said MotoAmerica President Wayne Rainey. “It’s also fitting that they will be presenting a special WILBUR SS model watch to the fastest qualifier at every round. The watches have a real techy look and feel to them, and you can tell that there’s a great deal of design and engineering that goes into each of the watches. The attention to detail shows in the final product and our riders are going to be pumped to try and win them and wear them.”
“The WILBUR brand grows around ‘shared passion,’” said WILBUR CEO Jason Wilbur. “We celebrate the risk-takers; those who push the limits and those who hustle in the name of the winning spirit. MotoAmerica nurtures and promotes that spirit and passion through its community of riders and teams. We are proud to support the MotoAmerica family through this new partnership.”
The first of the WILBUR Fastest Qualifier Awards will go to the MotoAmerica Medallia Superbike polesitter in the opening round of the 2022 championship at Circuit of The Americas in Austin, Texas, April 8-10.
About MotoAmerica
MotoAmerica is the North American road racing series created in 2014 that is home to the AMA Superbike Championship. MotoAmerica is an affiliate of KRAVE Group LLC, a partnership that includes three-time 500cc World Champion, two-time AMA Superbike Champion, and AMA Hall of Famer Wayne Rainey, ex-racer and former manager of Team Roberts Chuck Aksland, motorsports marketing executive Terry Karges, and businessman Richard Varner. For more information on MotoAmerica, visit www.MotoAmerica.com. Also make sure to follow MotoAmerica on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
Kevin Schwantz Named Grand Marshal of 2022 AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days
30th Annual AMA VMD event will highlight Schwantz’s AMA Superbike and Grand Prix career with Suzuki, and much more
PICKERINGTON, Ohio — AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famer and 1993 500cc World Champion Kevin Schwantz has been named Grand Marshal for the 2022 AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days event July 22-24 at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in Lexington, Ohio.
AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days is the preeminent — and longest-running — vintage motorcycle event in the country, with over 40,000 attendees each year enjoying off-road and road racing, bike shows, AMA Hall of Fame exhibits, camping, Laps For History on the legendary Mid-Ohio circuit and, of course, the country’s largest motorcycle swap meet.
Schwantz, who was inducted into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in 1999, began riding at a young age and soon became a club-racing phenom — which launched him into a factory ride with the Yoshimura-Suzuki team in 1985 at just 21 years of age.
Schwantz won three AMA Superbike nationals that year and would win many more in the coming three years before heading to Europe in 1989 to contest the 500cc Grand Prix wars. Schwantz won the 500cc championship in 1993, and retired just two years later, his legacy of 25 GP wins, 21 lap records, 29 pole positions — along with his daring and dynamic personality on and off the bike — cemented in motorsports history forever.
Schwantz went on to own and run the Kevin Schwantz Suzuki School, a highly successful riding school based at Road Atlanta and, in later years, at Barber Motorsports Park.
A special highlight of Schwantz’s Grand Marshal appearance — where he’ll sign autographs, speak to enthusiasts from the AMA Soundstage, participate in a Lap For History each day at noon (and lead event attendees around the legendary Mid-Ohio circuit), and more — will be an exclusive showing of his 1985 Yoshimura-Suzuki AMA Superbike, which launched his career and which Schwantz recently acquired for his collection.
“Having not attended the VMD event before,” Schwantz said, “I’m very much looking forward to July. I love vintage motorcycles and the whole classic-bike scene, and I’ve heard such good things about VMD over the years, so it’ll be fun — especially since we’re going to showcase my 1985 Yoshimura/Suzuki Superbike. I can’t wait!”
“Kevin Schwantz looms large in motorcycle and motorcycle-racing history,” said AMA Editorial and Communications Director Mitch Boehm, “and having him as Grand Marshal at Mid-Ohio this summer for the 30th Anniversary of AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days — along with the AMA Superbike that launched his career — will be a treat for everyone involved. VMD has always been a peak summer experience for enthusiasts from all over the country, and we’re planning to make it extra special for Kevin, too.”
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. Besides offering members money-saving discounts on products and services, the AMA also publishes American Motorcyclist, a recently revitalized and monthly full-color magazine (and digital version of same) that covers current events and motorcycle history with brilliant photography and compelling writing. American Motorcyclist is also North America’s largest-circulation magazine. 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.
Hudson Valley Motorcycles To Support Upcoming Local Racer Vito DiCarlo
OSSINING, NY – Hudson Valley Motorcycles is pleased to announce its support of upcoming local racer and soon to be MotoAmerica Stock 1000cc rookie Vito DiCarlo. HVMC will support DiCarlo throughout his 2022 season as he makes the jump up to the 1000cc level aboard a Kawasaki ZX-10R in both the CCS series and select wild card MotoAmerica events.
HVMC is known nationally for its deep professional road-racing roots but this will mark its first sponsorship of a local rider outside of the MotoAmerica paddock in some time. The 28 year old New Jersey based racer caught the eye of HVMC and the Alexander family throughout the 2021 season with great results on track but more importantly a professional presentation coupled with strong determination to excel at his craft.
Partner and General Manager of Hudson Valley Motorcycles Richie Alexander commented: “Vito is a great rider with a great personality which is very important to us at HVMC. His results over the course of his short riding career speak for themselves but when looking for a candidate to help represent our family locally, we know Vito will do a great job and we are all excited to support him on and off the track!”
HVMC will support DiCarlo through its Kawasaki Team Green program as well as offering dealership resources including riding gear, parts, and overall technical support. Vito also has access to the all new RideHVMC west coast facility based at California’s Chuckwalla Valley Raceway receiving instruction with our very own Corey Alexander and the JP43 Training team throughout the winter months.
Vito commented, “I’m beyond blessed for this opportunity. The Hudson Valley family is the epitome of what every motorcycle enthusiast seeks out at a dealership and more. They aren’t there to sell you a motorcycle, but more of an overall experience. They welcome all walks of riders with open arms and that is the reason why I won’t go anywhere else for my motorcycle needs.”
About Hudson Valley Motorcycles:
Hudson Valley Motorcycles (HVMC) is a family owned and operated motorcycle dealership that serves New York’s Hudson Valley and Westchester County as well as the Tri-State and New England regions. HVMC has offered Kawasaki, Ducati, Scrambler Ducati, Suzuki, Energica and ATV, motorcycle or UTV Sales, Parts, and Service for over 55 years. For more info visit hudsonvalleymotorcycles.com, call (914)-762-2722 or follow @hvmotorcycles on social media.
About RideHVMC:
RideHVMC is a premier track experience provider offering track events, bike rentals, rider training, transportation, and bike storage at its California based facility located at Chuckwalla Valley Raceway. It is also a proud supporter of Hudson Valley Racing’s MotoAmerica racing program. Visit RideHVMC.com or follow @ridehvmc to learn more about its offerings.
Canadian Rider Fund at North American International Motorcycle Super Show
Toronto, ON – The Canadian Rider Fund will be hosting a display at the upcoming North American International Motorcycle Super Show, at Toronto’s International Centre, March 25-27. The CRF display will include examples of current at-track installation devices focused on rider protection, and show give aways including the new season poster for the 2022 CSBK National roadracing championship series.
On Sunday afternoon, March 27, former CSBK National Superbike Champ Ben Young of Collingwood, ON, will be in the CRF booth, signing the 2022 poster that features an image of the lead Feature class final race battle from Calabogie, ON, between Young and eventual 2021 overall National Champ Alex Dumas of Desmaures, QC.
Young competes aboard a Van Dolder’s Home Team/Parts Canada backed BMW, while the Dumas Suzuki effort is backed by the Liqui Moly, FAST Riding School and MPG. Their rivalry will resume at the opening round of the 2022 Nationals at Grand Bend Motorplex, with Qualifying on Friday June 10, and feature races on June 11 & 12.
The Super Show has been a staple of the motorcycle off-season for over forty years, and typically kicks off the winter event tour at the start of January. This year, the pandemic delayed the show until the end of March, and the Super Show, presented by NFP, will be the first indoor consumer motorcycle event to take place in Canada for more than two years.
Hours for the North American International Motorcycle Super Show, held at Mississauga’s International Centre near the Airport, are Friday 11 AM – 9 PM; Saturday 10 AM – 8 PM and Sunday 10 AM to 5 PM.
Founded in 2008, the Canadian Rider Fund (CRF) was formerly known at the Canadian Rider Safety Fund (CRSF). A registered non-profit, the CRF provides a range of installation solutions at a variety of venues, including Atlantic Motorsport Park in Nova Scotia, Shannonville Motorsport Park, Calabogie Motorsports Park, Canadian Tire Motorsport Park, Grand Bend Motorplex, and venues in Alberta.
The initial focus of the CRF was the development and installation of Bottle Bags at tracks across Canada, starting at A.M.P. on the east coast. The Bottle Bags are large, soft sided resin containers that are filled by empty plastic water bottles and other similar crushable containers, with their screw-on lids attached.
The CRF are currently seeking donations and support towards the expansion of the Bottle Bag program, and the purchase of the latest portable trackside soft barrier modules. Two of the new modules will be on display at the Show.
Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK Fired Up for 2022 WorldSBK Title Defence Campaign
Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK and its riders Toprak Razgatlıoğlu and Andrea Locatelli revealed their official colours for the 2022 FIM Superbike World Championship today, as the team prepares to defend the ‘Triple Crown’ with two further days of pre-season testing at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya from 25-26 March.
The two official Yamaha riders line up for their second season together as a formidable pair aboard the R1 WorldSBK. For Razgatlıoğlu, it will be his third year in Yamaha blue after a sensational 2021 season which saw the Turkish ace win 13 races, collect 29 podiums, three pole positions and seven fastest lap awards on his way to the Riders’ Championship title. The 25-year-old will compete with the coveted #1 on his R1 WorldSBK, also revealed for its inaugural outing today.
It will be a tough act to follow one of the most thrilling WorldSBK seasons of the sport’s history, but Yamaha Motor Research & Development Europe and the Crescent team have left no stone unturned during the winter in order to provide the best chance to defend the Riders’, Manufacturers’ and Teams’ Championships. A raft of upgrades introduced across engine and chassis components, as well as key electronics developments, will bolster the R1 WorldSBK’s well-rounded race package. Launched in its new colours with accents to reflect the latest production-based Yamaha R1, the 2022 Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK machine gives its riders enhanced overall performance compared to the 2021 title-winning racer.
Playing a key part in the team’s future success is 2021 Rookie of the Year Locatelli, who out-performed seasoned stalwarts of the series to finish fourth overall in the Riders’ Championship with incredible consistency throughout his first year in the premier class. The 25-year-old Italian achieved four podiums in total last year and is eager to deliver more – including challenge for his first WorldSBK race victory in 2022.
Pata Snack, a name that has become synonymous with Yamaha since its return to WorldSBK competition in 2016, continues for a seventh consecutive year as title sponsor, joined by financial forecasting software company Brixx displayed in its striking red. Motorcycle accident management specialists, McAMS has also become a Primary Partner of the team to further strengthen its title defence campaign.
The team would also like to welcome back and thank BMP Tappi, Semakin di Depan, Yamalube, Akrapovic, Hel Performance, Corpay and Breeze Motor Group, and extend a warm welcome to new key partners Pro-Bolt, industry leaders in premium fasteners, and OUTDO high performance motorcycle batteries.
Finally, Yamaha fans will not need to wait much longer to see their favourite protagonists turn a wheel in anger, with the first round of the season just around the corner in two weeks’ time from 8-10 April at MotorLand Aragon, following the official pre-season test at the same venue on 4-5 April.
Paul Denning – Team Principal, Pata Yamaha with BRIXX WorldSBK
“It is a pleasure to show off the new Yamaha WorldSBK colours for the 2022 season. Heading into this year’s racing has an extra special element as we line up as the defending WorldSBK Champions, but our goals remain the same – do our best, stay focused on what we can control and maximise our performance. Both Toprak and Loka have been working hard over the winter, Yamaha’s engineers have been completely committed, and the Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldBSK team has been fully engaged to finalise our competitive package both on and off the track. The entire project is very grateful for the support from our loyal partners, including Pata Snack and Brixx, the expanded support levels from McAMS, Hel Performance and Corpay, new partnerships with Pro-Bolt and OUTDO, and returning support from BMP Tappi, Semakin di Depan, Yamalube, Akrapovic, Breeze Motor Group and our many technical partners and long-time suppliers. We could not be in this position without this support, and we will do all we can to represent our partners and the Yamaha brand with another title challenge in 2022.”
Toprak Razgatlıoğlu
“My team has done incredible work over the winter and I have enjoyed testing all the developments! The new R1 WorldSBK looks amazing and we are ready to start the new season. I always say, my approach is the same in this championship: to fight for race wins every time. I cannot wait to ride my bike this week in Barcelona, we will continue to work on the race package and try to improve after very good tests in Aragon and Portimão. It will also be good to see our competition for 2022, but our focus is inside the Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK pit box for these final days before the first race.”
Andrea Locatelli
“I am really excited to start racing again! It’s my second season in WorldSBK and also with Yamaha, so for sure we have higher objectives. Even with more experience, the focus remains on trying to improve every session towards being able to fight for the podium every weekend. This is our objective and I hope we can start well, from the first race until the last one! I want to try and win with the Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK team in 2022, because it is important for me and also for the team. We had such an amazing season last year, but I am ready to take the next step. The 2022 Yamaha R1 WorldSBK looks great, we have new colours on the bike but also some new developments and parts that we tried during testing this winter – now, we will finalise the package to use during the season. Yamaha has done a fantastic job around the bike to find improvements and we are almost ready to go!”
Jason O'Halloran (22) as seen during pre-season testing at Snetterton Circuit. Photo courtesy MSVR.
Editorial Note: American Julian Correa was eighth-fastest during British Talent Cup testing Saturday at Snetterton. Scroll down to see those test time.
O’Halloran 0.568s under the Snetterton lap record to top times from Sykes
Jason O’Halloran set a blistering pace on the second day of Bennetts British Superbike Championship Official Testing at Snetterton this afternoon, lapping 0.568s under the existing circuit record to top the times by 0.068s for the McAMS Yamaha team.
There was a frantic end to the final session of the day as O’Halloran saved his best until last to post his lap-record breaking time with just under three minutes remaining before the chequered flag.
O’Halloran said: “It has been a really productive day for us and it is nice to be at the top of the timesheets. It wasn’t really part of the plan today, we just ended up there which was good. We worked through a lot of changes so thanks to the team as they put in a really big shift today.
“We are just continually working to see where we can take the bike and gain valuable information for the start of the season. There has been a lot of mental energy put into today and we want to keep improving.”
The Australian had snatched the leading position away from rival Josh Brookes who had been the first rider to dip into the 1m:46s barrier in the session earlier in the afternoon. The double champion had been heading the timesheets in the closing action of the day, before a small crash at Murrays in the final minutes, but he was uninjured and returned to the pitlane.
As Brookes returned to the garage, his teammate Tom Sykes proved he was continuing to get to grips with the Ducati on his return to Bennetts BSB. The former World Champion fired himself into second place and just 0.068s adrift of O’Halloran on his final run of the day.
Bradley Ray continued to hold his position in the top five, setting the fourth fastest time for Rich Energy OMG Racing Yamaha, edging out yesterday’s pace-setter Danny Buchan on the SYNETIQ BMW. The leading five riders setting a pace within the lap record time at the Norfolk circuit.
Rory Skinner was the leading Kawasaki contender in sixth place, as four manufacturers featured in the top six positions after day two on track.
FHO Racing BMW’s Peter Hickman narrowly held off Danny Kent for seventh position, the Buildbase Suzuki rider had a crash at Palmer in the closing stages, but just 0.003s separated the pair at the chequered flag.
Andrew Irwin made it both SYNETIQ BMWs in the leading ten as Tommy Bridewell completed the top ten after day two, with 0.091s covering the top 12 contenders with Kyle Ryde and Christian Iddon.
Former champion Leon Haslam was 15th for the VisionTrack Kawasaki team whilst defending champion Tarran Mackenzie was 16th.
Bennetts British Superbike Championship, R&G Official Test, Snetterton, combined day two result:
Jason O’Halloran (McAMS Yamaha) 1m:46.575s
Tom Sykes (MCE Ducati) +0.068s
Josh Brookes (MCE Ducati) +0.111s
Bradley Ray (Rich Energy OMG Racing Yamaha) +0.456s
Danny Buchan (SYNETIQ BMW) +0.536s
Rory Skinner (FS-3 Racing Kawasaki) +0.699s
Peter Hickman (FHO Racing BMW) +0.739s
Danny Kent (Buildbase Suzuki) +0.742s
Andrew Irwin (SYNETIQ BMW) +0.832s
Tommy Bridewell (Oxford Products Racing Ducati) +0.837s
For more information on the Bennetts British Superbike Championship visit www.britishsuperbike.com
Razgatlioglu tops rain-affected Day 2 at Catalunya as all five manufacturers make the top seven
The rain fell and interrupted running on the second day at Catalunya as Razgatlioglu topped the times on Saturday
The MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship continued testing at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya with rain interrupting the second day of action in Spain. Reigning Champion Toprak Razgatlioglu (Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK) topped the timesheets with the fastest lap of the day coming before the rain fell which limited running as the time ticked over into the afternoon.
FIVE MANUFACTURERS IN THE TOP SEVEN
In a show of what WorldSBK could be like in 2022, five manufacturers finished inside the top seven positions on day two. Razgatlioglu’s fastest time was a 1’40.571s as he completed 51 laps with Yamaha trialling a new exhaust throughout the test as well as continuing to work on their electronics package. Teammate Andrea Locatelli was 11th for the second day as he, like his teammate, worked on Yamaha’s electronics package. Both Razgatlioglu and Locatelli ventured out into the wet on Saturday. The Pata Yamaha team were not the only Yamaha representation in the top five, with Garrett Gerloff (GRT GYRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) in fifth place. Gerloff was testing in the wet conditions to trial Yamaha’s electronics package. Teammate Kohta Nozane also ventured out into the wet, posting a best time of 1’42.509s.
Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) put his Panigale V4 R machine into second place as the team looked to focus on a modified swingarm compared to the one seen at Portimao as well as new items inside the front forks. Bautista completed 67 laps and posted a best time of 1’40.952s to claim second spot. Teammate Michael Ruben Rinaldi made it two Ducatis in the top six as he finished sixth with a best time of 1’41.610s. He completed 34 laps on day two, opting not to test in the wet conditions.
Team HRC showed strong pace on Saturday with two riders in the top eight. Iker Lecuona claimed third spot with a best time of 1’41.033s and 62 laps completed, while Xavi Vierge was eighth after completing 55 laps. Vierge’s day came to an early end on Saturday after he had a highside crash at Turn 12, bringing out the Red Flags for a short period. Vierge was initially taken to the medical centre for a check-up before being transported to hospital with rib injuries, although he was conscious. Honda tested some new double ducts on their brakes on day one of the test to assist with cooling in hotter conditions, while the CBR1000RR-R also has a new exhaust for 2022.
At the team’s home circuit, Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK claimed fourth with Jonathan Rea on day two of the two-day test after posting a 1’41.168s and completing 32 laps. Throughout the test, Rea tried the fuel tanks fins used by teammate Alex Lowes as well as trying small components including on the clutch. Lowes finished the day in 12th place, with a best time of 1’41.99s and 36 laps to his name. Both riders opted against testing in the afternoon after the rain fell.
Scott Redding (BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) overcame technical issues in the morning to finish in seventh place for the day, racking up 50 laps and posting a best lap time of 1’41.636s. Redding spent day one working on BMW’s electronics package and was hoping for dry running to keep the momentum heading in the right direction. Despite not staying dry, Redding did test in the wet conditions while stand-in teammate Ilya Mikhalchik finished his day when the rain came. The Ukrainian rider’s best time was a 1’42.763s and he completed 16 laps.
INDEPENDENT SQUADS ROUND OUT THE TOP TEN
There were two Independent riders who rounded out the top ten on day two in Barcelona. German rookie Philipp Oettl (Team GoEleven) claimed ninth place as he looked to continue evaluating a new exhaust after the team switched to Spark over the winter. Oettl took advantage of the wet conditions in the afternoon to get some wet-weather practice in, having never ridden a WorldSBK machine in wet conditions before. His best time was a 1’41.735s with 55 laps to his name.
Lucas Mahias (Kawasaki Puccetti Racing) took a different approach to the afternoon’s running after the rain, with the Frenchman ending his day early. Over the winter, Kawasaki Puccetti switched suspension suppliers to Öhlins, with Mahias continuing to evaluate this change in Catalunya. Mahias posted a best time just 0.009s shy of Oettl while adding 23 laps to his tally.
ROUNDING OUT THE WorldSBK FIELD ON DAY TWO…
Bonovo Action BMW duo Eugene Laverty and Loris Baz were 15th and 16th respectively on the second day. Laverty had been working on a change of rider position throughout the test while working on some traction control strategies on day one. The Irishman completed 30 laps on day two, with a best time of 1’43.305s, while Baz was half-a-second down on his teammate as the Frenchman completed 29 laps; neither ventured out onto the track in the wet conditions.
Sammarinese rookie Luca Bernardi (Barni Spark Racing Team) was 17th on day two as he continued to adjust to WorldSBK action. He posted a best time of 1’43.823s, completing 23 laps but not taking to the wet track. His time was a second clear of fellow rookie Oliver König (Orelac Racing VerdNatura) who added 34 laps to his tally; like Bernardi, König did not go out in the rain.
Now entering his second season in WorldSBK, Loris Cresson (TPR Team Pedercini Racing) was 19th on his ZX-10RR. the Belgian rider had a highside crash at Turn 2 on day one in the change of direction but was okay to ride on Saturday, finishing as the penultimate rider in the field. Malaysian rider Hafizh Syahrin (MIE Racing Honda Team) was last in the WorldSBK classification, completing 49 laps with a best time of 1’45.539s.
RACE LAP RECORD PACE FOR BULEGA
Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing WorldSSP Team) continued his form of lapping under existing race lap records throughout testing as he sent the benchmark in WorldSSP on day two. His best time was a 1’45.110s, faster than both Cresson and Syahrin, as he added 38 laps to his tally. He was the only WorldSSP rider to hit the track in the wet conditions, with Raffaele De Rosa (Ducati Orelac Racing VerdNatura) and Oli Bayliss (Barni Spark Racing Team) opting to not test in the afternoon. De Rosa’s best time was a 1’46.971s, almost two seconds back from Bulega, while Bayliss posted a 1’47.253s as his best time.
More, from a press release issued by Kawasaki:
KRT Ready To Race After Catalunya Test
Kawasaki’s official WorldSBK riders Jonathan Rea and Alex Lowes left the final private winter tests of the 2022 season in confident mood after two days at their Kawasaki Racing Team’s local track, Circuit de Barcelona – Catalunya.
A dry opening day on Friday 25 March at the 4.657km long venue, situated just a few hundred yards from the team’s HQ, provided both KRT riders and the vast majority of their 2022 rivals consistent track conditions to work with.
The second day started out dry, but cooler than day one, with the expected rains finally appearing in the middle of the day, ending all meaningful track action.
On the 2022 Ninja ZX-10RR six-times World Champion Rea set his best time of 1’41.062 on Day One of the tests. That put him overall second fastest at that stage, before finishing up fourth quickest in the combined times.
Rea and his crew confirmed their season-starting base settings before making more specific set-up steps to race at Barcelona in the autumn. Rea also worked on some tyre options, to be ready for whatever the real race conditions will provide when the championship heads there to race.
A now fully fit Lowes worked on his machine set-up with his pit crew throughout the test. Like his team-mate Jonathan, Alex set his best lap time – a 1’41.664 – on the slightly warmer opening day.
Even though Lowes lost some potential track time to the rains that arrived just after 12.00 he leaves Catalunya in a positive and motivated frame of mind, and fully fit after a 2021 season which was impacted by injury.
Catalunya will ultimately host Round Eight of the WorldSBK championship between 23-25 September.
The final pre-season on-track preparations will be made at the Organiser’s Supported test days at Motorland Aragon, between 4-5 April. The first round of the season will take place at that same venue, from 8-10 April.
Jonathan Rea (65). Photo courtesy Kawasaki.
Jonathan Rea, stated: “I had a good feeling here. We confirmed the items that we had found positive results with in both the Jerez and Portimao tests. The weather conditions were not perfect here and the temperature was quite low, but we were able to make a lot of laps, especially on Day One. Day Two was colder but we kept working with the base of the bike. I did some more practice starts on Day Two, so that is getting better. We made some progress in that area. I ended the test with a good feeling on the bike and I am really excited to go to Aragon. Everybody there will have the same strategy – to set-up for the weekend and then go into Free Practice 1. It has been a long but exciting off-season, with a lot of testing, and I have been healthy throughout. I am thankful to the team for all the hard work they have done. Now we get to go to a race weekend very soon. Thanks for the big effort, to everyone in KRT.”
Alex Lowes (22). Photo courtesy Kawasaki.
Alex Lowes, stated: “We had a good first day here. We did lot of laps, consistent laps, and confirmed a lot of the changes we had made in the previous winter tests. This morning we were limited on track time, and we wanted to try some different things on the back of the bike. The forecast had been quite bad so we were happy to get the good laps we did on the final day. The laps we did get were better than we expected after the weather forecast. I am ready to go now in Motorland Aragon in a couple of weeks. It has been nice to do a proper test with lots of good laps. My previous injuries feel good, my body feels good and that means I am ready to racing.”
Pere Riba, Crew Chief for Jonathan Rea, stated: “This is the first test that all manufacturers, teams and riders have attended. Everybody was here, so it has been a little bit different compared to the previous ones. The riders always check the lap times, who is in front, which tyre the others are using. At this track the difference between times on the soft and hard tyres are quite big. Yesterday everybody was making a fast time on the soft tyres but this is maybe not realistic. The race in 19 laps, not five. We focused on our own testing. The first thing was to confirm the things we had already tested at Jerez and Portimao. The result has been positive. Then we also tried to understand some changes in the set-up, thinking about race weekend. We worked on the soft tyres and the hard tyres, so we can be ready for whatever we use when we come back to race here. We collected very good information, we did a race simulation, and we have the base package to start the championship in Motorland Aragon. We will check that again in the two days of official testing there. We feel ready. For sure this year will be very tough, as many people are going fast, but we are all happy.”
Marcel Duinker, Crew Chief for Alex Lowes, stated: “We had an early finish because it started to spit a bit with rain at lunchtime. It was a good test because Catalunya has always been hard for us in the past, but we arrived here with a clear idea about what our base bike would be for the first race in Aragon. We just had another opportunity to test some important items again on a different track. That is what we did on Day One. We had a nice day then, did a lot of laps and we had the same results from all our new components, like we had at Jerez and Portimao. We are confident we can say that our bike specification for Race One is done. Alex did a lot of laps on the first day and he was very fit from the first lap to the last. I appreciate and admire the efforts he has made over the winter to prepare himself. Now we are looking forward to Aragon. We are ready to start the season.”
Lucas Mahias (Kawasaki Puccetti Racing) was also at the Catalunya tests, posting strong times as the Frenchman approaches his second WorldSBK season in his Italian-based team. Independent riders Loris Cresson (TPR Team Pedercini Racing) and Oliver König (Orelac Racing VerdNatura) also made their final private tests of the pre-season on their Ninja ZX-10RR machines.
More, from a press release issued by GRT GYTR Yamaha WorldSBK Team:
GOOD PROGRESS MADE AT PENULTIMATE TEST IN BARCELONA FOR GERLOFF AND NOZANE
Garrett Gerloff (31). Photo courtesy GRT GYTR Yamaha WorldSBK Team.
The renewed GRT GYTR Yamaha WorldSBK Team concluded its penultimate test at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya on 25-26 March with over 20 riders involved as the start of the 2022 FIM Superbike World Championship gets ever closer. Kohta Nozane and Garrett Gerloff could finally run their Yamaha R1 bikes with the new liveries, following the official Team Launch on 24 March.
On the first day, both riders could run in good weather conditions, but the low grip made it difficult to maximise their potential. With track open from 10:00 to 18:00, without any break, and just a little stop at the end of the day due to a red flag, Gerloff and Nozane were able to continue the work done at the Misano World Circuit just one week ago.
Therefore, Gerloff set a 1’41.229 (85 laps), despite a small crash in the middle of the day at Turn 10. Anyway, that didn’t prevent the American rider from finding pace, ending Day 1 third fastest. On the other side of the box, Nozane picked up his rhythm run after run, and finished with a 1’42.428 (74 laps), which saw him go 14th.
On Day 2, despite the overcast conditions, the rain held off in the morning and Gerloff kept working on his pace to go fifth fastest with a 1’41.320 (45 laps). Teammate Nozane did the same and was 14th overall on a 1’42.509 after 25 laps.
Just before the halfway stage, heavy rain disrupted the remainder of the test. That didn’t prevent the team from running though, and both Nozane and Gerloff went out with the Pirelli rain tyres to test the new Yamaha R1 in wet conditions. In the afternoon, the Japanese rider recorded a 1’57.208 (20 laps), while the American did a 1’56.332 (17 laps), with the team opting to end the test prematurely due to the colder conditions.
From now on, the last step for the GRT GYTR Yamaha WorldSBK Team before the 2022 FIM World Superbike Championship season commences will be the official Aragòn test set for 4-5 April, which will also host the opening round on 8-10 April.
Garrett Gerloff: “Day 1 here in Barcelona wasn’t the easiest as the track didn’t have much grip. Anyway, we did a good job and I’m glad the things we tried in Misano worked here as well. We kept working on the electronics, and we made step forward with that. I’m happy that we were able to try numerous parts and settings, and the race pace was good as well. I had a small crash on the first day at Turn 10, but that didn’t stop us from getting everything done. On Day 2 we continued with our schedule, confirming the improvements we’ve made. Moreover, we could do some laps in the wet condition and it was important because we needed the data. We’re in a good spot, and now I’m focused on the final test at Motorland Aragòn.”
Kohta Nozane: “The first day was a bit more difficult than expected. At the Misano World Circuit the track had good grip, but here in Barcelona the asphalt was very green. Anyway, we kept working and took some positives from this test. We were able to complete some laps in the rain too, which was important as we might face wet conditions during the season and we need to be ready for that. Now I’ll keep working to be prepared for the final test before the beginning of the championship.”
Filippo Conti: “It was very emotional to see our new Yamaha R1 bikes on track after the official unveiling on 24 March. Overall, it was once again a good test and we had the chance to ride in wet conditions as well. Testing in every condition is really important to be as prepared as possible for the upcoming season. In just one week we’ll have the final test in Aragòn and then the 2022 season will get underway. We’re more than ready and I would like to thank the whole crew for the massive job they’re doing, Yamaha and every partner which is believing in our project.”
More, from a press release issued by BMW Motorrad Motorsport:
BMW Motorrad Motorsport continues WorldSBK season preparations with two day of testing at Barcelona.
BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team and Bonovo action BMW Racing Team in action at the two-day test in Spain.
Ilya Mikhalchik stands in for injured Michael van der Mark.
Marc Bongers: “In general, we are happy but we still have to work on the pace to get closer to the top”.
Barcelona. BMW Motorrad Motorsport continued is preparations for the 2022 FIM Superbike World Championship with two days of testing at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya (ESP). The BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team and the Bonovo action BMW Racing Team again had a comprehensive test schedule and evaluated numerous new components and set-up solutions for the BMW M 1000 RR. The weather was mainly dry with some rain only on the afternoon of the second day.
At Scott Redding’s (GBR) side, BMW Motorrad factory rider Ilya Mikhalchik (UKR) stood in for injured Michael van der Mark (NED) in the BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team. Together with the two Bonovo action BMW Racing Team riders, Eugene Laverty (IRL) and Loris Baz (FRA), they worked, among other things, on rims, wiring loom and electronics and tested several chassis components.
The next test is scheduled for 4th and 5th April at MotorLand Aragón (ESP). The same venue will host the 2022 WorldSBK season opener from 8th to 10th April.
Quotes after the Barcelona test. Marc Bongers, BMW Motorrad Motorsport Director: “Ilya did a solid job. He worked through several test items for us and got used to the Superbike. He completed many kilometres and we made good progress with him. In the end, he was the second-fastest BMW rider in the dry. Michael’s surgery was successful but we don’t know yet when he can ride again. In case he can’t, Ilya would be a potential substitute for the season opener. On Scott’s side, the test went partly positively, partly we have still some work to do. We confirmed the engine with all riders as a positive step. We also were strong in regards to top speed but we clearly lose in sectors two and four, especially when accelerating out of the fast corners. Here we definitely still have to work on our package, in combination with set-up and traction control. We were able to go through a lot of test items also with the Bonovo action BMW Racing Team. Loris unfortunately had a crash that cost him a lot of time. In addition, we had some minor technical issues here and there, but that’s the purpose of the tests, to identify them at an early stage. Those were topics we can well react on. In general, we are happy but we still have to work on the pace to close up to the top.”
Scott Redding, BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team: “It was good to have two days of testing here in Barcelona. We have made some improvements with the bike and the electronics which is important for me and the team. Then we had to try a few test items, tried the different tyres to get a feeling, tried again the electronics. We worked a lot and we did make some improvements which is good. But the goal post is always moving. You close the gap to the first one and then someone goes faster again. But we have to look at our situation, what we are doing and how we are improving. That’s where we need to focus. Then we had some rain in the afternoon of the second day which was interesting. It was good for me to get on the wet track and just get the feeling. It’s not too different to how it was in the past. I felt quite good. We need to do a bit more with the set-up and stuff but the temperature dropped quite a lot so we decided to test some other parts, practice starts a bit more because I haven’t done many starts on this bike and then we improved which was good. We also tried some other things for the conditions. In general, we did quite a lot but we still have more to do. We are moving on to Aragón, and I think we have some more things that we need to confirm there.”
Ilya Mikhalchik, BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team: “First of all I want to say a big thank you to BMW Motorrad Motorsport and the team for giving me this opportunity, and secondly a speedy recovery and a get well soon to Michael. I hope he can back on his bike soon. I am happy to be here and for sure, the World Superbike is completely different. You need to know how to work on this bike to go fast. We got this feeling more with every lap we did. Lap by lap I felt where we should go and this brought me more speed and more fun on the bike. Hopefully we can continue in the same way and soon I will get more confidence and will be faster on the bike. Barcelona was a new track for me and it was a kind of a new bike, but I enjoyed it and really felt like home. At the next test at Aragón, we know each other already, I am acquainted to the bike so I think this will be a small advantage for me there and our work will be even better than here.”
Eugene Laverty, Bonovo action BMW Racing Team: “Especially the first day was really good. We continued our progress from Misano day two in the same direction. We improved the braking again and in the afternoon we worked a lot on electronic strategies to help because this asphalt is usually slippery so it was a big chance to work on power reduction and traction control to improve that for the 20-lap races. We made good lap times. Still it’s too far to the top, we need to reduce this, but I am happy with the way the Bonovo action BMW Racing Team is working and it was positive.”
Loris Baz, Bonovo action BMW Racing Team: “Yesterday morning, we did a quite a good job. At the beginning, I did not have the feeling I wanted with the bike. We improved this, I was pretty fast, but then I made a small mistake and crashed in an in-lap. That was basically the end of our test because we were not able to re-start after the crash yesterday. This morning we had some issues due to the crash I guess. We did in and out-laps trying to find the problem today. It is frustrating but for sure it is better to happen here than at Aragón. Before the crash we were pretty fast, not as fast as we want for sure, but on a track where the grip is so low, I think that’s our weakest point at the moment and we need to improve in these kinds of conditions. It has not been a productive test like Jerez or Misano but sometimes this happens. I am looking forward to Aragón now.”
More, from a press release issued by Aruba.it Racing Ducati:
Bautista ends second the private tests in Barcelona. Rinaldi sixth. Bulega (WorldSSP) also does well with the Panigale V2.
The last private tests of the 2022 pre-season ended today at the Circuit de Barcelona Catalunya (Spain).
The Aruba.it Racing – Ducati team riders worked profitably on their Ducati Panigale V4R during the two intense days (with cold temperature).
Alvaro Bautista also had the chance to lap in wet conditions after the heavy rain that fell during the lunch break today.
DAY-1
Alvaro Bautista and Michael Rinaldi took to the track on their Ducati Panigale V4R and immediately showed a good feeling.
The Spanish rider completed 93 laps, recording an extremely convincing race pace and finishing with a best time of 1’40.824 using race tyres.
Michael Rinaldi also lapped consistently, finishing fourth at the end of the day after completing 80 laps.
Day-1 Standings
1 – A. Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) 1’40.824
2 – J. Rea (Kawasaki) 1’41.062
3 – G. Gerloff (Yamaha) 1’41.229
4 – M. Rinaldi (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) 1’41.360
5 – T. Razgatlioglu (Yamaha) 1’41.523
DAY-2
Despite the very low temperature, both Bautista and Rinaldi were still able to push hard continuing to work on race tyres, without using the new qualifying tyre introduced by Pirelli (SCQ).
In the afternoon Bautista returned to the track in wet conditions and concluded 18 LAPS
Day-2 Standings
1 – T. Razgatlioglu (Yamaha) 1’40.571
2 – A. Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) 1’40.952
3 – I. Lecuona (Honda) 1’41.033
4 – J. Rea (Kawasaki) 1’41.168
5 – G. Gerloff (Yamaha) 1’41.320
6 – M. Rinaldi (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) 1’41.610 Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati #19)
“I’m satisfied with these two days of testing. We’ve worked a lot on the bike, trying some interesting solutions that have given positive results. We’ve also tried the new rear tyre that Pirelli should bring to Barcelona round, although obviously, the weather conditions will be different. We are making constant progress and this gives us great confidence. Let’s go to the Aragon tests to fix the last details that will allow us to be ready for the first round”.
Michael Rinaldi (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati #21)
“It’s been a profitable test in which we’ve worked especially in view Aragon race. This morning, unfortunately, I could not try to set the time with the SCX due to the rain. In any case, the feeling has improved since the Misano test and I feel we have taken a big step forward. For sure we are not at our 100% yet and that’s why the Aragon tests will be very important. * I have the feeling we are* on the right track. We just have to continue working in this direction”.
#WorldSSP
Concrete steps forward for Nicolò Bulega who completed 111 laps, increasing the feeling with the Ducati Panigale V2 of the Aruba.it Racing WSSP team. Although the asphalt was much colder than yesterday, the Italian rider was able to lower the time recorded in day-1 by more than three tenths, closing with an interesting 1’45.110. This afternoon Bulega had the chance to test the Ducati Panigale V2 for the first time in wet conditions.
Nicolò Bulega (Aruba.it Racing WSSP team)
“I’m satisfied with what we did both yesterday and today. We have worked well and understood many things. Maybe we’re not as close to the fastest times as we have been on other circuits but it’s clear that the temperature didn’t help us. The balance of these tests, in any case, is positive, also because I was able to ride the Panigale V2 for the first time in wet conditions”.
More, from a press release issued by Team HRC:
Team HRC completes its penultimate pre-season test in Barcelona
Team HRC has shared the Barcelona-Catalunya circuit with many other WorldSBK teams during the penultimate pre-season test, with the final sessions scheduled to take place at Motorland Aragón on Monday 4 and Tuesday 5 April before round 1 of the 2022 Superbike World Championship gets underway at the same track on Friday 8 April.
After a couple of weeks of rain and mixed weather conditions in the local area, the squad was lucky enough to enjoy a dry, albeit windy and cool, first day of testing on Friday, with temperatures of around 16°C. Saturday on the other hand brought colder conditions and cloudy skies, before it began to rain around midday.
During the intense one and half day of dry testing, riders Iker Lecuona and Xavi Vierge worked hard with their respective crews as they focused on various aspects of the bike’s set-up and continued to adapt to what is a new category for them both. Having put in a qualifying tyre, Lecuona ultimately set the third fastest time in the combined classification (1’41.033), while Xavi Vierge finished 10 overall with a best time of 1’41.719.
In the afternoon, and considering the worsening weather, both riders took the opportunity to try out some rain set-ups and wet tyres. The conditions proved tricky for Xavi Vierge however, and the Spaniard suffered his first fall since joining the team. Despite the turn 12 crash not appearing to be particularly major, Xavi reported a strong pain to his ribs and was therefore taken first to the medical centre and then to the Sant Cugat Barcelona Hospital for further checks. The x-rays reported a fracture to his twelfth rib. The plan is to start immediately with physiotherapy and rehabilitation so as to be back on track as soon as possible.
The next week the team will move on to the Motorland Aragón circuit for a final pre-season test session before the 2022 WorldSBK Championship season opener takes place on 8-10 April.
Iker Lecuona 7
“On day one, we worked on every aspect of the bike set-up in order to adapt to the Montmelo circuit, looking to improve particularly in terms of the braking, and corner speed too. The feeling has been different compared to Jerez and Portimão, and the weather was not as good as it was during previous tests, but we worked really hard on the bike all the same. I’m also focusing on myself, in terms of adapting to the aspects of this category that are very different to what I was used to, like the electronics for example. I also need to understand the Pirelli tyres a bit better, but we are getting there. Day by day I feel better on the bike and I’m also very happy with the team; they support me at all times and in every way. On Saturday it was good to have a dry morning session, during which we worked to fine tune the set-up before putting in a soft tyre to make a flying lap. I was happy with that lap time but of course it’s just a single lap and in a race you must be fast from start to finish. After lunch the rain came, so let’s say that the afternoon was a good opportunity to learn more about the wet tyres and wet settings. We have room to improve there, so we must keep working. We will now approach Aragón with an open mind, well aware that we still have work to do but also that we have worked well in recent months and will continue to do our best to keep improving throughout the season”.
Xavi Vierge 97
“The crash was a real shame and came at the end of what’s been a constructive testing session. Yesterday we had the first good weather we’ve seen for a while and were able to make the most of it. Montmelo is kind of a home track for me, but also a new track for me on the CBR, so the first goal was to build confidence with the bike and understand the areas where we need to work and improve the set-up. We focused on those aspects and took some steps forwards over the two days, getting into quite a good rhythm and collating a lot of information. On Saturday afternoon the conditions worsened and after lunch the rain came. We took the opportunity to work on some rain set-ups and wet Pirelli tyres but unfortunately, I suffered a crash which has left me in quite a bit of pain. I will start immediately with physiotherapy and rehabilitation so as to be back on track as soon as possible”.
More, from a press release issued by Yamaha:
Razgatlıoğlu Sets Blistering Pace in Barcelona Test with 2022 Pata Yamaha with Brixx R1 WorldSBK
Defending WorldSBK Champion Toprak Razgatlıoğlu set the fastest lap time across two days of pre-testing at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, as he and Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK teammate Andrea Locatelli continued preparations for start of the 2022 FIM Superbike World Championship in Spain.
Razgatlıoğlu took to the track for the first time with #1 on his Yamaha R1 WorldSBK yesterday, completing 82 of his total 133 laps – but it was today that the team found a step forward. This enabled him to post the 1’40.571 lap-time which saw him take the number one spot, ahead of 19 riders from the full 24-strong WorldSBK field in attendance. The Turkish ace ended the test more than two-tenths clear of nearest rival Alvaro Bautista (Ducati).
Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK and Yamaha Motor Europe’s Research & Development engineers worked hard across the two days of testing to finalise electronic and mechanical upgrades for the 2022 season, making progress in both dry and wet conditions as rain fell from midday today.
Despite two crashes hampering Locatelli’s pre-season preparations and ending his day early yesterday, the #55 crew were able to re-join the action this morning and shift their focus to help deliver positive pace in wet conditions. The Italian completed a total of 117 laps of the 4.657 km venue.
The official WorldSBK test at MotorLand Aragon will provide two further days of testing before the opening round of the 2022 season, which takes place at the same venue from 8-10 April.
Toprak Razgatlıoğlu: P1 (1’40.571) – 133 laps
Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK
“Yesterday for me was not an easy day because we tried to find the set up, but the feeling was not so good. But, this morning the start was very positive because we find a good set-up and see the problem – and also very good lap time for me! After, we try also the new tyre from Pirelli but then the rain started. We could try the new electronic in wet condition, which was also working very good. We are also improving set-up again with electronics and I’m very happy today. It’s a good feeling and looks ready to race. We have one more test in Aragon, where we will try some new set-up and new parts.”
Andrea Locatelli: P12 (1’41.865) – 117 laps
Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK
“Yesterday morning we were fast and the feeling was great! I had a small crash in the morning, but it was ok. In the afternoon I struggled a little bit with the feeling and we had some problems which meant we lost a lot of time on track. It was quite a strange day for us but today we tried to restart fresh. Unfortunately we had another small problem and lost more time in the morning. In the middle of the day it started to rain and it meant we could do some laps in the wet. The feeling was good and in general after the two days I am really happy because in the rain we rode really well, so this is another good point. We tried the updated electronics, we tried everything and the feeling is good. Now in Aragon, we will reset everything and start again – not from zero because we have a base set-up and a lot of good parts – but we have two days to focus on the bike in the official test and prepare. In the end we were a little unlucky here in Barcelona but it’s the life! We’ve already tested in Aragon so we have more of an idea, we will finish the work there and start ready for the first race of the season.”
Phil Marron – #1 Crew Chief
Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK
“Yesterday we understood a few limitations with the bike, and fortunately, we were able to figure out the direction that we needed to go for today. We had a very unhappy rider last night and on the first few exits today, he was reasonably happy though not quite convinced with the package – but towards the afternoon, Toprak was quite content with the progress made with the electronics package and the hardware package on the R1 WorldSBK. We were fortunate to get a chance to try the upgraded electronics in the wet and that was very beneficial not only for Toprak to understand it, but for us as well. He got a chance to get his head around it and we get a chance to really get our teeth into it from an analysis point of view. We still have work to do in Aragon, and what we’ve done here has helped us but the fact that we’ve already been to Aragon is bound to help as well, so we’re looking forward to getting there.”
Andrew Pitt – #55 Crew Chief
Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK
“On Locatelli’s side, the first half of the day went really well yesterday as we worked through our programme and got some very good, clear information. We improved the bike and he was really happy with it, running right at the front. We put a soft tyre in and tried to push for a lap time, and unfortunately Loka just lost the front into Turn 1 and did quite a lot of damage on his main bike. We lost a bit of momentum at that point, working to transfer the latest updates for his second bike – which then had some problems in the afternoon and the day ended with a crash at Turn 4. It was a late night to get everything ready for today and a little bit frustrating as we only got one good run in before the rain came. But on the positive side, we did focus on some runs this afternoon in the wet. Loka didn’t have a good feeling in Race 1 here last year and has never been super happy on the bike in the wet, but today he went out and within two laps had a really good feeling and went really quick. Electronically, the feeling is very good, the base is very good and we’ve got a set-up that works. Riding this afternoon in the wet helped him a lot and now we’ll get the bikes ready for Aragon. We know we have a good base there from the test, so we just need to come out and hit the ground running to work on speed and fine tuning.”
The Tokyo Big Sight, the venue hosting the 2022 Tokyo Motorcycle Show. Photo by Kohei Hirota.
For the first time since 2019, the Tokyo Motorcycle Show opened Friday at the Tokyo Big Sight in the bay area of Tokyo, Japan. Photographer Kohei Hirota attended the opening day and submitted the following photos.
Fans stream into the main exhibit area Friday at the Tokyo Motorcycle Show. Photo by Kohei Hirota.Arai had a large display area. Photo by Kohei Hirota.
Some of the Arai helmets on display, including the Nicky Hayden “Reset” replica. Photo by Kohei Hirota.BMW’s CE 04 electric scooter. Photo by Kohei Hirota.The Dunlop motorcycle tire exhibit at the Tokyo Motorcycle Show. Photo by Kohei Hirota.Ducati Japan did not have a display, but there was a Ducati Panigale V4 R showing off some carbon-fiber wheels and an aftermarket exhaust system. Photo by Kohei Hirota.An Energica Ego electric sportbike on display in Tokyo. Photo by Kohei Hirota.A Harley-Davidson dealer in Japan built this road-going replica of Kyle Wyman’s MotoAmerica King Of The Baggers Championship-winning Screamin’ Eagle Road Glide. Photo by Kohei Hirota.A 30th Anniversary Edition Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP next to a 1992 Honda CBR900RR. Photo by Kohei Hirota.We haven’t received anything about this neo cafe racer from Honda, but it’s called the Hawk 11 and it shares the 1,084cc parallel twin engine and basic chassis with the Africa Twin. Photo by Kohei Hirota.IXON leathers had one of Takaaki Nakagami’s LCR Honda RC213V MotoGP racebikes on display. Photo by Kohei Hirota.This is Kawasaki’s ZX-25R, a high-revving 249cc inline four-cylinder sportbike that’s available in some markets outside of the U.S. Photo by Kohei Hirota.KTM’s display area at the Tokyo Motorcycle Show. Photo by Kohei Hirota.One of Marc Marquez’s actual Shoei race helmets on display. Photo by Kohei Hirota.Several racebikes draw attention to a display promoting the MFJ All-Japan Superbike Championship event April 2-3 at Motegi. Photo by Kohei Hirota.There were several sponsored racebikes on display in NGK Spark Plug’s area, including bikes identified as belonging to Jonathan Rea, Mark Marquez, Fabio Quartararo (20), and Joan Mir (36). Photo by Kohei Hirota.Öhlins has a large display area at the Tokyo Motorcycle Show. Photo by Kohei Hirota.Another one of the Monster Energy Yamaha YZR-M1 racebikes belonging to 2021 MotoGP World Champion Fabio Quartararo. There were at least three on display in different areas of the show Friday. Photo by Kohei Hirota.Shoei showcased its new heads-up display system in Tokyo. Details were not immediately available. Photo by Kohei Hirota.A Shoei helmet fitted with a new heads-up display system. Details were not immediately available. Photo by Kohei Hirota.The Yoshimura SERT Motul Suzuki GSX-R1000 endurance racebike with the 2021 FIM Endurance World Championship trophy and one of the Joan Mir ECSTAR Suzuki GSX-RR MotoGP racebikes on display at the show. Photo by Kohei Hirota.A closeup of some of the front-end hardware on the Yoshimura SERT Motul Suzuki GSX-R1000 endurance racebike. Photo by Kohei Hirota.Another view of one of Joan Mir’s ECSTAR Suzuki GSX-RR MotoGP racebikes. Photo by Kohei Hirota.One of Triumph’s new Tiger 1200 models. Photo by Kohei Hirota.
Another one of Fabio Quartararo’s Monster Energy Yamaha YZR-M1s in the Yamaha display next to Katsuyuki Nakasuga’s 2021 title-winning YZF-R1 All-Japan Superbike. Photo by Kohei Hirota.Another view of 2021 All-Japan Superbike Champion Katsuyuki Nakasuga’s Yamaha YZF-R1 Superbike. Photo by Kohei Hirota.The new YZF-R7 was highlighted in Yamaha’s display area at the show. Photo by Kohei Hirota.
2022 is go! Buchan leads the way on the opening day at Snetterton
Danny Buchan kick started his 2022 Bennetts British Superbike Championship season by topping the opening day of Official Testing at Snetterton, optimising the open pitlane track time to set the benchmark, edging Bradley Ray by 0.091s at the top of the timesheets.
Buchan had consistently stayed at the top of the times, but as the afternoon session ticked down, Ray surged up the order into second place as he experienced the Rich Energy OMG Racing Yamaha for the first time, easing Peter Hickman into third.
Hickman held third place at the end of the opening day for the FHO Racing BMW team after running at the top of the times earlier in the session.
SYNETIQ BMW’s Buchan said: “The plan was to work through some components this afternoon and we stuck some new bits on the bike – some we liked, some we didn’t, we ended up with quite a good lap time so I was quite happy. It is only testing, but everybody is still out there and everybody is still trying so we will see what we can improve on tomorrow.”
Rory Skinner bounced back from a morning crash to finish fourth fastest for the FS-3 Racing Kawasaki team, just ahead of Jason O’Halloran on the leading McAMS Yamaha who completed the top five. Defending champion Tarran Mackenzie posted the 13th fastest time.
Leon Haslam had a strong start to his return to the Championship, positing the sixth fastest time as he made his debut with the VisionTrack Kawasaki team at their home circuit.
Danny Kent led the Buildbase Suzuki charge in seventh place, pipping Tommy Bridewell on the Oxford Products Racing Ducati.
Tom Sykes made his much-anticipated debut with the MCE Ducati team, getting his first taste of the BSB-spec Ducati as he recorded the ninth fastest time with Christian Iddon completing the top ten on the second Buildbase Suzuki.
Bennetts British Superbike Championship, R&G Official Test, Snetterton, Friday combined result:
Danny Buchan (SYNETIQ BMW) 1:47.380s
Bradley Ray (Rich Energy OMG Racing Yamaha) +0.091s
Peter Hickman (FHO Racing BMW) +0.357s
Rory Skinner (FS-3 Racing Kawasaki) +0.438s
Jason O’Halloran (McAMS Yamaha) +0.455s
Leon Haslam (VisionTrack Kawasaki) 0.584s
Danny Kent (Buildbase Suzuki) +0.624s
Tommy Bridewell (Oxford Products Racing Ducati) +0.655s
Tom Sykes (MCE Ducati) +0.666s
Christian Iddon (Buildbase Suzuki) +0.760s
For more information on the Bennetts British Superbike Championship visit www.britishsuperbike.com
WILBUR Watch Co. Named The Official Timing & Scoring Partner Of MotoAmerica
High-End Watch Company Will Also Present Watches With Its Fastest Qualifier Award
IRVINE, CA – MotoAmerica, North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series, is thrilled to announce that the WILBUR Watch Co. is now the Official Timing & Scoring partner of the 2022 Auto Parts 4 Less MotoAmerica Championship.
Based in San Diego, California, WILBUR Watch Co. designs, builds, and sells unique high-end watches that combine art and science in timepieces that are fearless. The company is led by award-winning designer and company CEO Jason Wilbur with an eye towards creating emotionally and technically exciting pieces that translate into what WILBUR says are “watches that could be, not what the industry says a watch should be.”
With WILBUR a natural fit as the Official Timing & Scoring partner of MotoAmerica, the watchmaking company has taken it a step further and will present the WILBUR Fastest Qualifier Award to a select-rider who earns pole position at each round. The award will rotate through the six MotoAmerica classes, with the class to be announced the week prior to each event. The pole-sitter will earn an ultra-limited WILBUR Speed Shop (SS) Modified watch.
“It’s exciting that WILBUR has joined us as our Official Timing & Scoring partner,” said MotoAmerica President Wayne Rainey. “It’s also fitting that they will be presenting a special WILBUR SS model watch to the fastest qualifier at every round. The watches have a real techy look and feel to them, and you can tell that there’s a great deal of design and engineering that goes into each of the watches. The attention to detail shows in the final product and our riders are going to be pumped to try and win them and wear them.”
“The WILBUR brand grows around ‘shared passion,’” said WILBUR CEO Jason Wilbur. “We celebrate the risk-takers; those who push the limits and those who hustle in the name of the winning spirit. MotoAmerica nurtures and promotes that spirit and passion through its community of riders and teams. We are proud to support the MotoAmerica family through this new partnership.”
The first of the WILBUR Fastest Qualifier Awards will go to the MotoAmerica Medallia Superbike polesitter in the opening round of the 2022 championship at Circuit of The Americas in Austin, Texas, April 8-10.
About MotoAmerica
MotoAmerica is the North American road racing series created in 2014 that is home to the AMA Superbike Championship. MotoAmerica is an affiliate of KRAVE Group LLC, a partnership that includes three-time 500cc World Champion, two-time AMA Superbike Champion, and AMA Hall of Famer Wayne Rainey, ex-racer and former manager of Team Roberts Chuck Aksland, motorsports marketing executive Terry Karges, and businessman Richard Varner. For more information on MotoAmerica, visit www.MotoAmerica.com. Also make sure to follow MotoAmerica on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
Kevin Schwantz will be the Grand Marshal of the 2022 AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days. Here, he is seen with the Suzuki GS700 he made his AMA Superbike racing debut on. Photo by Lars Frazer, courtesy AMA.
Kevin Schwantz Named Grand Marshal of 2022 AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days
30th Annual AMA VMD event will highlight Schwantz’s AMA Superbike and Grand Prix career with Suzuki, and much more
PICKERINGTON, Ohio — AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famer and 1993 500cc World Champion Kevin Schwantz has been named Grand Marshal for the 2022 AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days event July 22-24 at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in Lexington, Ohio.
AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days is the preeminent — and longest-running — vintage motorcycle event in the country, with over 40,000 attendees each year enjoying off-road and road racing, bike shows, AMA Hall of Fame exhibits, camping, Laps For History on the legendary Mid-Ohio circuit and, of course, the country’s largest motorcycle swap meet.
Schwantz, who was inducted into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in 1999, began riding at a young age and soon became a club-racing phenom — which launched him into a factory ride with the Yoshimura-Suzuki team in 1985 at just 21 years of age.
Schwantz won three AMA Superbike nationals that year and would win many more in the coming three years before heading to Europe in 1989 to contest the 500cc Grand Prix wars. Schwantz won the 500cc championship in 1993, and retired just two years later, his legacy of 25 GP wins, 21 lap records, 29 pole positions — along with his daring and dynamic personality on and off the bike — cemented in motorsports history forever.
Schwantz went on to own and run the Kevin Schwantz Suzuki School, a highly successful riding school based at Road Atlanta and, in later years, at Barber Motorsports Park.
A special highlight of Schwantz’s Grand Marshal appearance — where he’ll sign autographs, speak to enthusiasts from the AMA Soundstage, participate in a Lap For History each day at noon (and lead event attendees around the legendary Mid-Ohio circuit), and more — will be an exclusive showing of his 1985 Yoshimura-Suzuki AMA Superbike, which launched his career and which Schwantz recently acquired for his collection.
“Having not attended the VMD event before,” Schwantz said, “I’m very much looking forward to July. I love vintage motorcycles and the whole classic-bike scene, and I’ve heard such good things about VMD over the years, so it’ll be fun — especially since we’re going to showcase my 1985 Yoshimura/Suzuki Superbike. I can’t wait!”
“Kevin Schwantz looms large in motorcycle and motorcycle-racing history,” said AMA Editorial and Communications Director Mitch Boehm, “and having him as Grand Marshal at Mid-Ohio this summer for the 30th Anniversary of AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days — along with the AMA Superbike that launched his career — will be a treat for everyone involved. VMD has always been a peak summer experience for enthusiasts from all over the country, and we’re planning to make it extra special for Kevin, too.”
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. Besides offering members money-saving discounts on products and services, the AMA also publishes American Motorcyclist, a recently revitalized and monthly full-color magazine (and digital version of same) that covers current events and motorcycle history with brilliant photography and compelling writing. American Motorcyclist is also North America’s largest-circulation magazine. 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.
Vito DiCarlo at Chuckwalla Valley Raceway. Photo courtesy Hudson Valley Motorcycles.
Hudson Valley Motorcycles To Support Upcoming Local Racer Vito DiCarlo
OSSINING, NY – Hudson Valley Motorcycles is pleased to announce its support of upcoming local racer and soon to be MotoAmerica Stock 1000cc rookie Vito DiCarlo. HVMC will support DiCarlo throughout his 2022 season as he makes the jump up to the 1000cc level aboard a Kawasaki ZX-10R in both the CCS series and select wild card MotoAmerica events.
HVMC is known nationally for its deep professional road-racing roots but this will mark its first sponsorship of a local rider outside of the MotoAmerica paddock in some time. The 28 year old New Jersey based racer caught the eye of HVMC and the Alexander family throughout the 2021 season with great results on track but more importantly a professional presentation coupled with strong determination to excel at his craft.
Partner and General Manager of Hudson Valley Motorcycles Richie Alexander commented: “Vito is a great rider with a great personality which is very important to us at HVMC. His results over the course of his short riding career speak for themselves but when looking for a candidate to help represent our family locally, we know Vito will do a great job and we are all excited to support him on and off the track!”
HVMC will support DiCarlo through its Kawasaki Team Green program as well as offering dealership resources including riding gear, parts, and overall technical support. Vito also has access to the all new RideHVMC west coast facility based at California’s Chuckwalla Valley Raceway receiving instruction with our very own Corey Alexander and the JP43 Training team throughout the winter months.
Vito commented, “I’m beyond blessed for this opportunity. The Hudson Valley family is the epitome of what every motorcycle enthusiast seeks out at a dealership and more. They aren’t there to sell you a motorcycle, but more of an overall experience. They welcome all walks of riders with open arms and that is the reason why I won’t go anywhere else for my motorcycle needs.”
About Hudson Valley Motorcycles:
Hudson Valley Motorcycles (HVMC) is a family owned and operated motorcycle dealership that serves New York’s Hudson Valley and Westchester County as well as the Tri-State and New England regions. HVMC has offered Kawasaki, Ducati, Scrambler Ducati, Suzuki, Energica and ATV, motorcycle or UTV Sales, Parts, and Service for over 55 years. For more info visit hudsonvalleymotorcycles.com, call (914)-762-2722 or follow @hvmotorcycles on social media.
About RideHVMC:
RideHVMC is a premier track experience provider offering track events, bike rentals, rider training, transportation, and bike storage at its California based facility located at Chuckwalla Valley Raceway. It is also a proud supporter of Hudson Valley Racing’s MotoAmerica racing program. Visit RideHVMC.com or follow @ridehvmc to learn more about its offerings.
Canadian Rider Fund (CRF) Bottle Bag safety barriers in place trackside in the Turn 13 “Throat” section at Calabogie Motorsports Park, as seen in 2021. Photo courtesy CSBK.
Canadian Rider Fund at North American International Motorcycle Super Show
Toronto, ON – The Canadian Rider Fund will be hosting a display at the upcoming North American International Motorcycle Super Show, at Toronto’s International Centre, March 25-27. The CRF display will include examples of current at-track installation devices focused on rider protection, and show give aways including the new season poster for the 2022 CSBK National roadracing championship series.
On Sunday afternoon, March 27, former CSBK National Superbike Champ Ben Young of Collingwood, ON, will be in the CRF booth, signing the 2022 poster that features an image of the lead Feature class final race battle from Calabogie, ON, between Young and eventual 2021 overall National Champ Alex Dumas of Desmaures, QC.
Young competes aboard a Van Dolder’s Home Team/Parts Canada backed BMW, while the Dumas Suzuki effort is backed by the Liqui Moly, FAST Riding School and MPG. Their rivalry will resume at the opening round of the 2022 Nationals at Grand Bend Motorplex, with Qualifying on Friday June 10, and feature races on June 11 & 12.
The Super Show has been a staple of the motorcycle off-season for over forty years, and typically kicks off the winter event tour at the start of January. This year, the pandemic delayed the show until the end of March, and the Super Show, presented by NFP, will be the first indoor consumer motorcycle event to take place in Canada for more than two years.
Hours for the North American International Motorcycle Super Show, held at Mississauga’s International Centre near the Airport, are Friday 11 AM – 9 PM; Saturday 10 AM – 8 PM and Sunday 10 AM to 5 PM.
Founded in 2008, the Canadian Rider Fund (CRF) was formerly known at the Canadian Rider Safety Fund (CRSF). A registered non-profit, the CRF provides a range of installation solutions at a variety of venues, including Atlantic Motorsport Park in Nova Scotia, Shannonville Motorsport Park, Calabogie Motorsports Park, Canadian Tire Motorsport Park, Grand Bend Motorplex, and venues in Alberta.
The initial focus of the CRF was the development and installation of Bottle Bags at tracks across Canada, starting at A.M.P. on the east coast. The Bottle Bags are large, soft sided resin containers that are filled by empty plastic water bottles and other similar crushable containers, with their screw-on lids attached.
The CRF are currently seeking donations and support towards the expansion of the Bottle Bag program, and the purchase of the latest portable trackside soft barrier modules. Two of the new modules will be on display at the Show.
2021 Superbike World Champion Toprak Razgatlioglu (right) and his teammate Andrea Locatelli (left) on their Pata Yamaha with Brixx YZF-R1 Superbikes. Photo courtesy Yamaha.
Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK Fired Up for 2022 WorldSBK Title Defence Campaign
Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK and its riders Toprak Razgatlıoğlu and Andrea Locatelli revealed their official colours for the 2022 FIM Superbike World Championship today, as the team prepares to defend the ‘Triple Crown’ with two further days of pre-season testing at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya from 25-26 March.
The two official Yamaha riders line up for their second season together as a formidable pair aboard the R1 WorldSBK. For Razgatlıoğlu, it will be his third year in Yamaha blue after a sensational 2021 season which saw the Turkish ace win 13 races, collect 29 podiums, three pole positions and seven fastest lap awards on his way to the Riders’ Championship title. The 25-year-old will compete with the coveted #1 on his R1 WorldSBK, also revealed for its inaugural outing today.
It will be a tough act to follow one of the most thrilling WorldSBK seasons of the sport’s history, but Yamaha Motor Research & Development Europe and the Crescent team have left no stone unturned during the winter in order to provide the best chance to defend the Riders’, Manufacturers’ and Teams’ Championships. A raft of upgrades introduced across engine and chassis components, as well as key electronics developments, will bolster the R1 WorldSBK’s well-rounded race package. Launched in its new colours with accents to reflect the latest production-based Yamaha R1, the 2022 Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK machine gives its riders enhanced overall performance compared to the 2021 title-winning racer.
Playing a key part in the team’s future success is 2021 Rookie of the Year Locatelli, who out-performed seasoned stalwarts of the series to finish fourth overall in the Riders’ Championship with incredible consistency throughout his first year in the premier class. The 25-year-old Italian achieved four podiums in total last year and is eager to deliver more – including challenge for his first WorldSBK race victory in 2022.
Pata Snack, a name that has become synonymous with Yamaha since its return to WorldSBK competition in 2016, continues for a seventh consecutive year as title sponsor, joined by financial forecasting software company Brixx displayed in its striking red. Motorcycle accident management specialists, McAMS has also become a Primary Partner of the team to further strengthen its title defence campaign.
The team would also like to welcome back and thank BMP Tappi, Semakin di Depan, Yamalube, Akrapovic, Hel Performance, Corpay and Breeze Motor Group, and extend a warm welcome to new key partners Pro-Bolt, industry leaders in premium fasteners, and OUTDO high performance motorcycle batteries.
Finally, Yamaha fans will not need to wait much longer to see their favourite protagonists turn a wheel in anger, with the first round of the season just around the corner in two weeks’ time from 8-10 April at MotorLand Aragon, following the official pre-season test at the same venue on 4-5 April.
Paul Denning – Team Principal, Pata Yamaha with BRIXX WorldSBK
“It is a pleasure to show off the new Yamaha WorldSBK colours for the 2022 season. Heading into this year’s racing has an extra special element as we line up as the defending WorldSBK Champions, but our goals remain the same – do our best, stay focused on what we can control and maximise our performance. Both Toprak and Loka have been working hard over the winter, Yamaha’s engineers have been completely committed, and the Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldBSK team has been fully engaged to finalise our competitive package both on and off the track. The entire project is very grateful for the support from our loyal partners, including Pata Snack and Brixx, the expanded support levels from McAMS, Hel Performance and Corpay, new partnerships with Pro-Bolt and OUTDO, and returning support from BMP Tappi, Semakin di Depan, Yamalube, Akrapovic, Breeze Motor Group and our many technical partners and long-time suppliers. We could not be in this position without this support, and we will do all we can to represent our partners and the Yamaha brand with another title challenge in 2022.”
Toprak Razgatlıoğlu
“My team has done incredible work over the winter and I have enjoyed testing all the developments! The new R1 WorldSBK looks amazing and we are ready to start the new season. I always say, my approach is the same in this championship: to fight for race wins every time. I cannot wait to ride my bike this week in Barcelona, we will continue to work on the race package and try to improve after very good tests in Aragon and Portimão. It will also be good to see our competition for 2022, but our focus is inside the Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK pit box for these final days before the first race.”
Andrea Locatelli
“I am really excited to start racing again! It’s my second season in WorldSBK and also with Yamaha, so for sure we have higher objectives. Even with more experience, the focus remains on trying to improve every session towards being able to fight for the podium every weekend. This is our objective and I hope we can start well, from the first race until the last one! I want to try and win with the Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK team in 2022, because it is important for me and also for the team. We had such an amazing season last year, but I am ready to take the next step. The 2022 Yamaha R1 WorldSBK looks great, we have new colours on the bike but also some new developments and parts that we tried during testing this winter – now, we will finalise the package to use during the season. Yamaha has done a fantastic job around the bike to find improvements and we are almost ready to go!”
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the public about an event, product, or service from the issuer’s own point of view, and if deemed
to have news value, may be placed on roadracingworld.com as a service to our readers.
A press release is not an article written by Roadracingworld.com staffers. When a post is labeled with the words “press release”, it means that Roadracingworld.com is not responsible for its content and that Roadracingworld.com makes no guarantee that it is accurate. Not all press releases are posted and Roadracingworld.com may reject press releases if the content is too heavy on commercial promotion with little or no news value or if the press release contains obvious errors.
Accessibility
Accessibility modes
Epilepsy Safe Mode
Dampens color and removes blinks
This mode enables people with epilepsy to use the website safely by eliminating the risk of seizures that result from flashing or blinking animations and risky color combinations.
Visually Impaired Mode
Improves website's visuals
This mode adjusts the website for the convenience of users with visual impairments such as Degrading Eyesight, Tunnel Vision, Cataract, Glaucoma, and others.
Cognitive Disability Mode
Helps to focus on specific content
This mode provides different assistive options to help users with cognitive impairments such as Dyslexia, Autism, CVA, and others, to focus on the essential elements of the website more easily.
ADHD Friendly Mode
Reduces distractions and improve focus
This mode helps users with ADHD and Neurodevelopmental disorders to read, browse, and focus on the main website elements more easily while significantly reducing distractions.
Blindness Mode
Allows using the site with your screen-reader
This mode configures the website to be compatible with screen-readers such as JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver, and TalkBack. A screen-reader is software for blind users that is installed on a computer and smartphone, and websites must be compatible with it.
Online Dictionary
Readable Experience
Content Scaling
Default
Text Magnifier
Readable Font
Dyslexia Friendly
Highlight Titles
Highlight Links
Font Sizing
Default
Line Height
Default
Letter Spacing
Default
Left Aligned
Center Aligned
Right Aligned
Visually Pleasing Experience
Dark Contrast
Light Contrast
Monochrome
High Contrast
High Saturation
Low Saturation
Adjust Text Colors
Adjust Title Colors
Adjust Background Colors
Easy Orientation
Mute Sounds
Hide Images
Hide Emoji
Reading Guide
Stop Animations
Reading Mask
Highlight Hover
Highlight Focus
Big Dark Cursor
Big Light Cursor
Cognitive Reading
Virtual Keyboard
Navigation Keys
Voice Navigation
Accessibility Statement
www.roadracingworld.com
November 15, 2026
Compliance status
We firmly believe that the internet should be available and accessible to anyone, and are committed to providing a website that is accessible to the widest possible audience,
regardless of circumstance and ability.
To fulfill this, we aim to adhere as strictly as possible to the World Wide Web Consortium’s (W3C) Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.1 (WCAG 2.1) at the AA level.
These guidelines explain how to make web content accessible to people with a wide array of disabilities. Complying with those guidelines helps us ensure that the website is accessible
to all people: blind people, people with motor impairments, visual impairment, cognitive disabilities, and more.
This website utilizes various technologies that are meant to make it as accessible as possible at all times. We utilize an accessibility interface that allows persons with specific
disabilities to adjust the website’s UI (user interface) and design it to their personal needs.
Additionally, the website utilizes an AI-based application that runs in the background and optimizes its accessibility level constantly. This application remediates the website’s HTML,
adapts Its functionality and behavior for screen-readers used by the blind users, and for keyboard functions used by individuals with motor impairments.
If you’ve found a malfunction or have ideas for improvement, we’ll be happy to hear from you. You can reach out to the website’s operators by using the following email
Screen-reader and keyboard navigation
Our website implements the ARIA attributes (Accessible Rich Internet Applications) technique, alongside various different behavioral changes, to ensure blind users visiting with
screen-readers are able to read, comprehend, and enjoy the website’s functions. As soon as a user with a screen-reader enters your site, they immediately receive
a prompt to enter the Screen-Reader Profile so they can browse and operate your site effectively. Here’s how our website covers some of the most important screen-reader requirements,
alongside console screenshots of code examples:
Screen-reader optimization: we run a background process that learns the website’s components from top to bottom, to ensure ongoing compliance even when updating the website.
In this process, we provide screen-readers with meaningful data using the ARIA set of attributes. For example, we provide accurate form labels;
descriptions for actionable icons (social media icons, search icons, cart icons, etc.); validation guidance for form inputs; element roles such as buttons, menus, modal dialogues (popups),
and others. Additionally, the background process scans all the website’s images and provides an accurate and meaningful image-object-recognition-based description as an ALT (alternate text) tag
for images that are not described. It will also extract texts that are embedded within the image, using an OCR (optical character recognition) technology.
To turn on screen-reader adjustments at any time, users need only to press the Alt+1 keyboard combination. Screen-reader users also get automatic announcements to turn the Screen-reader mode on
as soon as they enter the website.
These adjustments are compatible with all popular screen readers, including JAWS and NVDA.
Keyboard navigation optimization: The background process also adjusts the website’s HTML, and adds various behaviors using JavaScript code to make the website operable by the keyboard. This includes the ability to navigate the website using the Tab and Shift+Tab keys, operate dropdowns with the arrow keys, close them with Esc, trigger buttons and links using the Enter key, navigate between radio and checkbox elements using the arrow keys, and fill them in with the Spacebar or Enter key.Additionally, keyboard users will find quick-navigation and content-skip menus, available at any time by clicking Alt+1, or as the first elements of the site while navigating with the keyboard. The background process also handles triggered popups by moving the keyboard focus towards them as soon as they appear, and not allow the focus drift outside it.
Users can also use shortcuts such as “M” (menus), “H” (headings), “F” (forms), “B” (buttons), and “G” (graphics) to jump to specific elements.
Disability profiles supported in our website
Epilepsy Safe Mode: this profile enables people with epilepsy to use the website safely by eliminating the risk of seizures that result from flashing or blinking animations and risky color combinations.
Visually Impaired Mode: this mode adjusts the website for the convenience of users with visual impairments such as Degrading Eyesight, Tunnel Vision, Cataract, Glaucoma, and others.
Cognitive Disability Mode: this mode provides different assistive options to help users with cognitive impairments such as Dyslexia, Autism, CVA, and others, to focus on the essential elements of the website more easily.
ADHD Friendly Mode: this mode helps users with ADHD and Neurodevelopmental disorders to read, browse, and focus on the main website elements more easily while significantly reducing distractions.
Blindness Mode: this mode configures the website to be compatible with screen-readers such as JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver, and TalkBack. A screen-reader is software for blind users that is installed on a computer and smartphone, and websites must be compatible with it.
Keyboard Navigation Profile (Motor-Impaired): this profile enables motor-impaired persons to operate the website using the keyboard Tab, Shift+Tab, and the Enter keys. Users can also use shortcuts such as “M” (menus), “H” (headings), “F” (forms), “B” (buttons), and “G” (graphics) to jump to specific elements.
Additional UI, design, and readability adjustments
Font adjustments – users, can increase and decrease its size, change its family (type), adjust the spacing, alignment, line height, and more.
Color adjustments – users can select various color contrast profiles such as light, dark, inverted, and monochrome. Additionally, users can swap color schemes of titles, texts, and backgrounds, with over seven different coloring options.
Animations – person with epilepsy can stop all running animations with the click of a button. Animations controlled by the interface include videos, GIFs, and CSS flashing transitions.
Content highlighting – users can choose to emphasize important elements such as links and titles. They can also choose to highlight focused or hovered elements only.
Audio muting – users with hearing devices may experience headaches or other issues due to automatic audio playing. This option lets users mute the entire website instantly.
Cognitive disorders – we utilize a search engine that is linked to Wikipedia and Wiktionary, allowing people with cognitive disorders to decipher meanings of phrases, initials, slang, and others.
Additional functions – we provide users the option to change cursor color and size, use a printing mode, enable a virtual keyboard, and many other functions.
Browser and assistive technology compatibility
We aim to support the widest array of browsers and assistive technologies as possible, so our users can choose the best fitting tools for them, with as few limitations as possible. Therefore, we have worked very hard to be able to support all major systems that comprise over 95% of the user market share including Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Apple Safari, Opera and Microsoft Edge, JAWS and NVDA (screen readers).
Notes, comments, and feedback
Despite our very best efforts to allow anybody to adjust the website to their needs. There may still be pages or sections that are not fully accessible, are in the process of becoming accessible, or are lacking an adequate technological solution to make them accessible. Still, we are continually improving our accessibility, adding, updating and improving its options and features, and developing and adopting new technologies. All this is meant to reach the optimal level of accessibility, following technological advancements. For any assistance, please reach out to
