Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club Celebrating 45th Anniversary

David Swarts

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March 17, 2022

Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club Celebrating 45th Anniversary

The Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club is celebrating its 45th Anniversary this year.

Founded in 1977, VJMC is the premier North American Club dedicated to the preservation, restoration, and enjoyment of vintage Japanese motorcycles (20 years old or older) and the promotion of the sport of motorcycling. The VJMC hallmark is “participation at all levels and to have fun” – for all motorcycle enthusiasts young and old.

This year’s National Rally will take place in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, June 23rd – 26th. Pre-registration is required for all attendees.

Membership is $35 per year and includes a full-color 64+ page magazine printed six times per year, rides, rallies and shows at local, regional, and national events. The VJMC has over 3,300 members and is a totally volunteer-based, nonprofit Club.

Tom Kolenko, President of VJMC: “This club has been successful for 45 years because it brings people and vintage Japanese bikes together for fun, friendship, and new riding experiences. We have a great vintage community that celebrates the past while riding into the future.”

For more information visit www.vjmc.org or call (763) 420-7829.

R.I.P. Stunt Rider Chris Pfeiffer

David Swarts

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March 16, 2022

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Professional stunt rider Chris Pfeiffer has died, according to a tweet from BMW Motorrad UK. He was 51.

Germany’s Speedweek.com is reporting Pfeiffer suffered from depression and committed suicide at his home “last weekend.”

Pfeiffer performed “thousands of shows all around the world – in 94 countries” during a 20-year career that also included him winning trials and enduro competitions, earning four World Championships in stunt riding, and holding multiple Guinness World Records, according to the German’s Facebook page.

According to www.news.com.au, Pfeiffer is survived by his wife Renate and children Pia, Amelie and Hannes.

MotoAmerica: Tytlers Cycle Racing Fielding Barbera & Jacobsen On BMW Superbikes

David Swarts

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March 16, 2022

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MotoAmerica: Tytlers Cycle Racing Fielding Barbera & Jacobsen On BMW Superbikes

Five riders to fly the Tytlers Cycle Racing flag in 2022 aboard BMW M1000 RR machinery

Tytler Cycle Racing is pleased to announce they will contest both the MotoAmerica Superbike and Stock1000 championships, fielding five riders across the two categories. Today’s announcement ensures a brace of BMW machinery on the grid – the team electing to use the BMW M1000 RR which was launched in 2021 and has already been a winner on the world stage.

Spearheading the Superbike project are two world class riders – Hector Barbera and PJ Jacobsen. The pair will race under the Tytler Cycle Racing banner aboard an Alpha-spec BMW M1000 RR. Hector who raced to an impressive seventh overall in his debut season last year returns to the MotoAmerica series keen to show his true potential on the latest machinery, whilst 2022 sees PJ Jacobsen return to the paddock as a full-time rider after a year watching, acting as a rider coach.

Tytler Cycle Racing has also partnered with RideHVMC enabling them to also run a Stock1000 program this season dubbed Tytlers Cycle RideHVMC Racing. Representing the team on Alpha-spec BMW M1000 RR machinery will be Corey Alexander, Travis Wyman, and Zach Schumacher. Corey, who narrowly missed Stock1000 title glory a year ago lines up alongside Travis Wyman, a proven race winner in the Stock1000 class over the past few seasons. Wisconsin native Zach Schumacher also steps up into MotoAmerica for a full campaign after a front running season in CCS and ASRA competition in 2021. The trio will also take part in the Superbike class aboard their Stock1000 spec machines for the full 10 rounds of the MotoAmerica championship.

Dave Weaver – Superbike Team Manager: “It has been a large undertaking to launch a racing program of this scale and especially in such short time as this project began just prior to the New Year. We still face many challenges ahead and there is lots of hard work yet to be done but I am eager to see what Hector and PJ can do in 2022. Everyone at TCR is determined to achieve strong results and surprise our competitors on the track.”

Richie Alexander – Stock1000 Team Manager: “We at RideHVMC are very excited to be a part of the Tytlers Cycle Racing structure and must thank Michael Kiley for including us into his program. This will be a big but exciting step up for us with three riders signing on for 2022 riding a new-to-us BMW M1000RR. We all have high hopes for the 2022 season and are eager to take this new challenge head-on. Let’s go racing!”

Hector Barbera: “I am really happy to join this team. It will be an important year for me, and I am confident of achieving some good results on track. The team has a lot of experience, and we have good technical support. I am sure we will work hard and that together we can have a good season together. This season will be easier for me. I know the circuits and I expect to be faster and to be able to fight for the top positions. I want to thank everyone who has made this possible. See you at the track.”

PJ Jacobsen: “I want to start off by saying a huge thank you to Michael Kiley Team and all the people behind this project, also all the people that continue to have faith in me and have pushed my name forward for this project. I took on a different role in my career with coaching last year and have been off the grid, but I’m still young and wanted to come back racing. I believe I have a lot left to show and I am very hungry and determined and I’m really looking forward to this opportunity and looking forward to seeing what the year brings us. See you at the races”

Corey Alexander: “I am very excited for the 2022 season. This new program that we’ve put together Tytler Cycle Racing has come together in a short amount of time, and I can’t wait to get started. The goal is to try to win the championship in return for Tytler Cycles supporting us this year. Three years ago, it was just me and two guys and to expand our effort like we have is a massive undertaking but here we are, now one of the largest teams in the paddock!”

Travis Wyman: “This will be my fifth season riding with BMW and I am excited to have the opportunity to race the new M1000 RR motorcycle in MotoAmerica. After finishing second on both the Stock1000 and SBK Cup championships last year I am looking to go one better this year. I am looking forward to working with Corey and Richie and the entire Tytler Cycle Racing team and to a great season for all of us.”

Zach Schumacher: “I will race the #90 M1000RR in Stock1000 and Superbike Cup this season, which is my first full season of MotoAmerica, and I’m really excited to be part of the team. Tytlers Cycle Racing and HVMC have put together a great program with the best personnel and equipment available, so I’m looking forward to learning a lot and having a great season!”

About Tytlers Cycle Racing (TCR)

Tytlers Cycle Racing is a newly formed professional racing team and extension of the Wisconsin based Tytlers Cycle dealership which offers the sale, service, parts, and accessories of BMW, Ducati, Energica, Indian, MV Agusta and Royal Enfield motorcycles. Visit TytlersCycle.Racing for more information or follow @tytlerscycleracing on social media.

About RideHVMC

RideHVMC is a racing team operator and premier track experience provider offering motorcycle track events, instruction, bike rentals, storage, and transportation. Visit RideHVMC.com for more information or follow @ridehvmc on social media.

WorldSBK: Bautista Best On Day One Of Misano Test

David Swarts

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March 16, 2022

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WorldSBK: Bautista Best On Day One Of Misano Test

Editorial Note: Danilo Petrucci is also at Misano testing his new Ducati Panigale V4 R on MotoAmerica-spec Dunlop tires.

Bautista ends day one at Misano on top for Ducati in WorldSBK test, only rider in 1’33s bracket

The Spanish rider was the only rider to lap in the 1’33s during the opening day for the Misano test

Day one of the two-day test at the Misano World Circuit “Marco Simoncelli” came to a close with Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) at the top of the timesheets for the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship field. The Spanish rider, on the Ducati Panigale V4 R, lapped in the 1’33s bracket making it the fastest he had ever lapped around the Italian venue.

Bautista’s first test at Misano since returning to Ducati ended up with him on top of the timesheets with a 1’33.983s lap time; more than a second faster from his Tissot Superpole time in 2019 when he last raced for Ducati at this venue. Ducati had some new components to test on the chassis of their Panigale V4 R, a swingarm first tested in Portimao and some electronic settings. Teammate Michael Ruben Rinaldi, winner of two races in 2021 at Misano, was third fastest and around half-a-second behind Bautista.

Garrett Gerloff (GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) was the fastest Independent rider on track, and second overall, despite a crash early on in the afternoon session at Turn 8. The American, whose GRT Yamaha squad were focussing on electronic settings on the YZF-R1 machine throughout the day, posted a best lap time of 1’34.376s. Gerloff’s teammate, Kohta Nozane, was ninth fastest on the opening day of the test with a 1’35.455s.

Garrett Gerloff (31). Photo courtesy Dorna.

It was a good first test day of 2022 for Loris Baz (Bonovo Action BMW) as the Frenchman posted the fourth fastest lap time, a 1’34.917s on the BMW M 1000 RR. The satellite BMW squad had some new components from BMW to try out through the test and teammate Laverty, with Bonovo Action expanding to two bikes for 2022, was eighth fastest and three tenths away from his teammate.

Michael Rinaldi (21). Photo courtesy Dorna.

Rookie Philipp Oettl (Team GoEleven) had another strong day of testing ahead of his maiden campaign as he claimed fifth place on the opening day at Misano. Oettl, who “surprised” team boss Denis Sacchetti in a Portimao test, and Team GoEleven focussed on ergonomics of the bike during the test as well as testing a new fork and exhaust. Oettl’s best time was a 1’34.951s.

Another Independent rider showed strong pace on day one as Lucas Mahias (Kawasaki Puccetti Racing) claimed sixth place on his ZX-10RR. Mahias continued developing Öhlins suspension on his bike after the team switched suppliers for 2022 as well as a new clutch, with the Frenchman posting a best time of 1’35.062s. Axel Bassani (Motocorsa Racing) focussed on the braking of his Panigale V4 R machine and finished seventh in the standings at Misano after posting a 1’35.188s.

Scott Redding (45). Photo courtesy Dorna.

Scott Redding was the sole BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team rider on track due to Michael van der Mark’s injury and the British rider rounded out the top ten on his M 1000 RR machine as he got to use a reconfigured fuel tank and subframe, as well as a final fix to the 2022 engine. The new BMW recruited posted a best time of 1’35.592s as he continues to adjust from a V4 engine to an inline four machine.

French rider Christophe Ponsson (Gil Motor Sport-Yamaha) ran back-to-back chassis tests between his old and new chassis during day one of the test at Misano, with a best lap time of 1’35.812s as he gears up for a second campaign with the family run team. He was ahead of Luca Bernardi (Barni Spark Racing Team) as the Sammarinese rider continued his adjustment to WorldSBK, posting a best time of 1’35.824s.

In WorldSSP, Turkish star Can Öncü (Kawasaki Puccetti Racing) topped the timesheets as he tested brake discs and bumps on his Kawasaki ZX-6R machine as well as updated suspension. Öncü did have a crash in the morning session at the penultimate corner but his time of a 1’37.832s was three tenths faster than the race lap record set in 2018 by Sandro Cortese, who set a 1’38.193s. Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing WorldSSP Team) was second in the standings as he also went under Cortese’s race lap record time, posting a 1’37.972s.

Yari Montella (Kawasaki Puccetti Racing) was third in the WorldSSP standings with a best lap of 1’39.214s, around 1.4s slower than teammate Öncü with Montella gearing up for his rookie campaign. Oli Bayliss (Barni Spark Racing Team) was fourth as he returned from a fractured ankle sustained at the Portimao test as he posted a 1’40.398s while Maximilian Kofler’s (CM Racing) best time was 1’40.465s.

WorldSBK times from day one at Misano

1. Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) 1’33.983s, 70 laps

2. Garrett Gerloff (GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) 1’34.376s, 67 laps

3. Michael Ruben Rinaldi (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) 1’34.461s, 56 laps

4. Loris Baz (Bonovo Action BMW) 1’34.917s, 51 laps

5. Philipp Oettl (Team GoEleven) 1’34.951s, 62 laps

6. Lucas Mahias (Kawasaki Puccetti Racing) 1’35.062s, 38 laps

7. Axel Bassani (Motocorsa Racing) 1’35.188s, 63 laps

8. Eugene Laverty (Bonovo Action BMW) 1’35.259s, 55 laps

9. Kohta Nozane (GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) 1’35.455s, 59 laps

10. Scott Redding (BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) 1’35.592s, 44 laps

11. Christophe Ponsson (Gil Motor Sport-Yamaha) 1’35.812s, 66 laps

12. Luca Bernardi (Barni Spark Racing Team) 1’35.824s, 52 laps

MotoGP: Racers Parade Through Jakarta

David Swarts

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March 16, 2022

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MotoGP™ enjoys a Presidential welcome with parade in Jakarta

20 riders head a parade through the capital in an unforgettable start to the inaugural Pertamina Grand Prix of Indonesia

Wednesday, 16 March 2022

The Pertamina Grand Prix of Indonesia got off to an awe-inspiring start in the capital city of Jakarta on Wednesday, with a parade of 20 riders meeting up with the President, Joko Widodo, and riding through the city – joined by Dorna Sports CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta and Chief Sporting Officer Carlos Ezpeleta.

The event began with a special breakfast reception, before the riders then entered the Merdeka palace for their meeting with President Jokowi. With the FIM MotoGP™ World Championship returning to Indonesia for the first time since 1997, it’s a huge weekend for the country and the sport – and the reception proved it, from the President and dignitaries to the fans lining the streets to get a glimpse of their heroes.

After the meeting, the group moved outside to look at the President’s bike and to line up on a grid at the palace for the start of the parade. With 20 riders all suited and booted, as well as Carmelo and Carlos Ezpeleta, it was a formidable spectacle as the train of bikes got ready to set off – and the President set the parade in motion waving a chequered flag.

MotoGP riders and others with Indonesian President Joko Widodo (seated on motorcycle) at his palace in Jakarta. Photo courtesy Dorna.

Riders from local Honda, Suzuki, Ducati and Yamaha fan clubs also joined the train of bikes, creating an incredible sight as the convoy headed out into central Jakarta. It was around 4km from the palace starting point to the finish line at the Kempinski Hotel, with fans lining every inch of the street along the route.

Once arrived, the riders parked their machinery and greeted the fans, with a crowd gathering for another glimpse of the superstars before they head for Pertamina Mandalika Circuit. Once interviews were done, and a few knee sliders thrown to the crowd, it was then time to head back inside, cool off and gear up for the journey to Lombok, with track action set to begin on Friday morning.

QUOTES

Marc Marquez: “Many years ago we came here to Indonesia for Honda events, Honda Astra, and it’s something really nice, from my first year I’ve felt like people follow MotoGP a lot and it’s something amazing. They deserve a GP and they’ll have a GP! We’ll race this weekend for the first time for a long time in Indonesia, it will be a big event for the country and for MotoGP.

“Qatar was a good start. You always want more, to be on the podium and try to win, but Qatar is a circuit where we struggle, it wasn’t a bad start. But here and in the next races, we will see and understand more our situation. We need to start to understand better, to show our speed if we can, but I feel better and better and that’s the most important thing.”

Carmelo Ezpeleta: “It’s been an incredible event, with all the riders helping us a lot with this promotion, Indonesia is one of the biggest countries in the world for MotoGP. We’re very proud to be received in the palace by the President, it’s something amazing and we appreciate it so much. We’re so happy to do that, the effort made by the race organisers to make this parade happen with all the riders has been something really impressive.

“We knew from many years ago when we were here that MotoGP in Indonesia is very popular. We think it will be a very nice event and something really important for the sport. We hope it will be the first of many; we have a long term agreement to race in Indonesia. It’s a new organisation and a new circuit but everyone has worked together to make it a success.”

MotoGP: Marc Marquez Says “It’s Early Days”

David Swarts

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March 16, 2022

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MotoGP: Marc Marquez Says “It’s Early Days”

Repsol Honda Team and MotoGP returns to Indonesia

Pol Espargaro and Marc Marquez ready to put on a spectacle for Indonesia’s MotoGP fans as they prepare for Grand Prix racing’s return after 25 years.

Indonesia holds fond memories for the Repsol Honda Team, Mick Doohan and Tadayuki Okada won the two previous races held in Sentul in 1996 and 1997. The 1997 edition, the last race in Indonesia, saw the Repsol Honda Team lock out the podium with Okada winning ahead of teammates Doohan and Alex Criville. It’s a welcome return to Indonesia, especially with the incredible support always shown by the country’s fans.

The Repsol Honda Team arrive with boosted confidence after a strong start to the year under Qatar’s floodlights. Pol Espargaro led the team home in third with Marc Marquez rounding out the night with a productive fifth place, the combined results putting the Repsol Honda Team at the top of the Teams’ Championship. More consistent results are the aim for this weekend in Lombok as both Espargaro and Marquez start putting together their respective seasons.

Espargaro enjoyed his best start to a MotoGP season of his career, leading the opening race for 17 laps on his way to third place. Having topped the final MotoGP pre-season test at the Mandalika Circuit, the #44 arrives with a good base. Resurfacing work after the test will present Espargaro and the rest of the grid with a new aspect of the track to master and assessing these changes will be first and foremost in the weekend’s plan.

Marquez’s results during the Mandalika Test also offer early positive indications for him and his side of the Repsol Honda Team garage. Showing the potential of the new Honda RC213V with an impressive front-row performance in Qatar, Marquez is eager to keep the improvements coming as his feeling with the new machine grows. Brand new MotoGP circuits have been somewhat of a speciality for the #93 in the past, winning his first premier class Grand Prix in Austin when the US tack debuted on the calendar. He also won the inaugural Thai GP in 2018 and the first Argentinian round held at Termas in 2014.

Weather will no doubt be a major factor over the weekend as showers have been occurring daily in the lead up to the race. The MotoGP race will begin at 15:00 Local Time on Sunday, March 20.

Pol Espargaro

“I am really looking forward to Mandalika, the fans were already incredible there during the test and I can only imagine what it will be like for the race. We’re coming in a good moment, a strong race in Qatar and we had a good test before in Mandalika, but a lot has changed since then. They’ve resurfaced the track which should be a big help, but we have to see what it’s like when we arrive. The plan is to continue working how we did during Qatar and in the test and to keeping unlocking our full potential.”

Marc Marquez

“We made improvements over the weekend in Qatar and it’s clear to see there is a lot of potential there. I’m really happy to return to Mandalika, it is great to be able to see all our Indonesian fans and to finally put on a great show for them after so many years. I hope our fans enjoy it and we can put together a good weekend for them to celebrate. Another weekend presents another chance to understand the bike more and get closer again to fighting at the front, it’s early days and we keep on pushing.”

Royal Enfield Introduces SCRAM 411 Adventure Bike

David Swarts

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March 15, 2022

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Royal Enfield Introduces SCRAM 411 Adventure Bike

ROYAL ENFIELD REVEALS ALL-NEW SCRAM 411 ADV CROSSOVER

Ready. Set. Scram!

Milwaukee, WI (Tuesday, March 15, 2022) – Royal Enfield, the global leader in the midsize (250cc – 750cc) motorcycling segment, today unveiled the Scram 411 – the brand’s first ADV crossover. The new Scram 411 is an engaging, accessible and capable street scrambler, with the heart of an adventure motorcycle. Built on Royal Enfield’s proven 411cc single-cylinder engine platform and the Harris Performance chassis, the Scram 411 combines spirited agility on urban streets, with competent rough-roading capabilities. Focused and purposeful changes in the riding geometry and ergonomics make it ideal for in-city riding, as well as unpredictable, challenging trails off the urban grid.

Unveiled for global audiences today, the new Scram 411 is already available in India, and will be available in Europe, Asia Pacific, North America and Latin America later this year. The Scram 411 is scheduled to arrive in the U.S. late summer/early fall. Pricing and colorways will be announced in the coming months.

The Scram 411 is a continuation of Royal Enfield’s constant pursuit of exploration, and building motorcycles to enable every adventure. One such motorcycle is the Himalayan—Royal Enfield’s flagship adventure tourer. Launched in 2016, the Himalayan has fostered a subculture of adventure touring around the world, most recently, even Antarctica’s South Pole. Its unique design and well-rounded capability make it among Royal Enfield’s best-selling motorcycles, and it is upon this stalwart platform that the style evolution continues with the more urban-focused ADV-crossover motorcycle—the Scram 411.

The all-new Scram 411 is a new subspecies that has the authentic vibes of a scrambler and adventure touring in its DNA. With long-travel suspension and class-leading ground clearance paired with a 19-inch front wheel and 17-inch rear, the Scram 411 is playfully agile on city streets, yet is highly capable of tackling more rugged terrain, so the exploration doesn’t end when the pavement stops.

Siddhartha Lal, Managing Director, Eicher Motors Ltd., simply loves the fluidity and the multipurpose ability of the Scram 411. Speaking about this in the context of modern existence, he said, “Whether it’s London, New Delhi or Tokyo, the contours of modern urban existence are ever-changing. With our world increasingly becoming more fast-paced, life in the urban context has become about the weekday hustle and the weekend getaway, and everything in between. We wanted to build a motorcycle that could effortlessly navigate this entire gamut, and be the perfect ally for the young, modern-day rider. The Scram 411 is truly a motorcycle made for now, and is always ready to tackle whatever surprise is in store.”

Speaking about the inspiration behind the Scram 411, and about the new motorcycle, Executive Director, Royal Enfield, B Govindarajan, said, “The globally lauded versatility and competence of the Himalayan inspired us to reimagine the motorcycle in a more young, modern-day, urban context. The Scram 411 is the perfect crossover for young city-dwellers, who prefer a motorcycle that is fun and engaging to ride around the city, yet has a rugged appeal. By shifting the riding geometry to make the motorcycle more at home on busy city streets, and retaining its strong ability to take on rough roads and take on the weekend dirt trail, we’ve brought a unique subcategory for consumers. Like all our motorcycles, the Scram 411 is built for the global rider, and manufactured with world-class engineering. We also have an array of genuine motorcycle accessories and a vibrant apparel range inspired by the Scram lifestyle. This is a very exciting and spirited new motorcycle, and we are confident that young riders from across the world will love the new Scram 411.”

Mark Wells, Chief of Design at Royal Enfield, enjoys riding the Scram 411, and loves how easily it can navigate a wide spectrum of terrain and challenges. Speaking about creating a new subspecies of motorcycles, he said, “Most scrambler motorcycles focus only on aesthetics and looks. When we began work on the Scram 411, we were determined to create a motorcycle that would be distinct in design and purpose, and bring the best of rough-road capability to urban riding. With its distinctive look and design, playful colorways, accessible riding proposition, the Scram 411 is an ultimate ADV crossover for the urban environment.”

ROYAL ENFIELD SCRAM 411 – DETAILS & SPECIFICATIONS

The Scram 411 is powered by the globally appreciated 411cc, fuel-injected, 4-stroke, SOHC, air-cooled single-cylinder engine. The counterbalanced engine ensures smooth power delivery and strong bottom-end torque that elevates the overall performance. The wide spread of useable power makes it easy to manage over long urban commutes with minimum gear shifts, and the confidence-inspiring low-revving torque allows it to tackle bad road, and off-road sections easily.

Long-travel suspension and monoshock design, together with class-leading 7.8 inches (200mm) of ground clearance, the Scram 411 delivers a smooth and comfortable ride. The telescopic front suspension with 41mm forks and 7.4 inches (190mm) travel, pairs with 7.0 inches (180mm) travel on the rear, where the link-mounted monoshock enables stable and confident riding over rough roads. Front and rear disc brakes combined with dual-channel ABS, ensures confident braking.

The change in the riding geometry is brought about by the 19-inch front wheel and dual-purpose tire. This, combined with the 17-inch rear wheel, are key to the Scram 411 motorcycle’s nimble handling. The dual-purpose tires ensure a confident grip over tarmac and loose gravel for the ideal combination of on-road grip and rough-road tractability.

The seat on the new Scram 411 is designed for comfort over long saddle time. The single seat that reflects the urban styling of the motorcycle, offers great comfort for both rider and passenger. The accessible 31.2-inch (795mm) seat height enables and easy reach to the ground, making it easy to maneuver in stop-and-go traffic.

The Scram 411 features a new digital-analog instrument cluster that provides easy access to essential information. Circumvented by a traditional analog speedometer, the Scram retains this classic style element, also making for easy viewing.

More details, information and specifications on the North America-spec Royal Enfield Scram 411 ADV crossover motorcycle, including colorways, options, genuine accessories and pricing, will be released in the coming months. U.S. arrival is anticipated in late summer/early spring.

#readysetscram #scram411 #royalenfieldscram

About Royal Enfield

The oldest motorcycle company in continuous production in the world, Royal Enfield made its first motorcycle in 1901. A division of Eicher Motors Limited, Royal Enfield has created the midsize motorcycle segment in India with its unique and distinctive modern classic motorcycles. With its manufacturing base in Chennai, India, Royal Enfield has been able to grow its production rapidly against a surge in demand for its motorcycles. Royal Enfield is a leading player in the global middleweight motorcycle market.

Royal Enfield North America (RENA) is headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and is developing a growing network of more than 140 dealers in North America, including the contiguous U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico. RENA currently offers the all-new Meteor 350, Himalayan and the 650 Twins (INT 650 and Continental GT 650) motorcycles, along with a range of Genuine Motorcycle Accessories and apparel.

For more information on Royal Enfield North America, visit www.RoyalEnfield.com/us/en/, www.Instagram.com/RoyalEnfield_NA, www.Facebook.com/RoyalEnfieldNorthAmerica.

American Flat Track: Catch Action This Weekend At Texas Half-Mile

David Swarts

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March 15, 2022

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American Flat Track: Catch Action This Weekend At Texas Half-Mile

Progressive AFT Stars Prepare to Shine at Mission Texas Half-Mile presented by Roof Systems

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (March 15, 2022) – The 2022 Progressive American Flat Track season will pick right back up following its highly entertaining opener with the Mission Texas Half-Mile presented by Roof Systems at the Dirt Track at Texas Motor Speedway on Saturday, March 19 in Fort Worth, Texas.

The stop in Dallas-Fort Worth carries increased significance on multiple fronts. For spectators, it presents the rare opportunity of witnessing two of the world’s most historic motorsports series at the same venue on a single weekend, as the NTT IndyCar Series will compete in the XPEL 375 the following day at Texas Motor Speedway.

And for the paddock, the event represents the home round for some of the sport’s most actively engaged partners, including Mission Foods, Roof Systems of Dallas, TX, and Al Lamb’s Dallas Honda.

The results of the season-opening Volusia Half-Mile certainly set an interesting stage heading into Round 2. Oftentimes, it’s only the Mission SuperTwins presented by S&S Cycle Main Event victor who leaves a given round satisfied.

It’s hard to imagine any of the opener’s top four – winner Briar Bauman (No. 3 Indian Motorcycle/Progressive Insurance FTR750), second-placed Bronson Bauman (No. 37 Latus Motors Racing Harley-Davidson XG750R), third-placed JD Beach (No. 95 Estenson Racing Yamaha MT-07 DT), and fourth-placed rookie Dallas Daniels (No. 32 Estenson Racing Yamaha MT-07 DT) – being anything less than genuinely enthused with how they kicked off their respective ‘22 campaigns.

That leaves some key players looking to strike back at Texas Motor Speedway, most notably reigning Mission SuperTwins champion Jared Mees (No. 1 Indian Motorcycle/Progressive Insurance FTR750), who finished fifth at Volusia Speedway Park. Mees is a proven master of the Dirt Track at Texas Motor Speedway, having won the series’ most recent two stops at the venue.

Other established powers looking for redemption are Brandon Robinson (No. 44 Mission Roof Systems Indian FTR750) and Jarod Vanderkooi (No. 20 Mission Roof Systems Indian FTR750), who finished sixth and ninth, respectively, this past weekend. Both riders are more than capable of finishing Saturday’s race atop the podium, and they have a bit of extra motivation performing at their team’s home race.

Mission Production Twins presented by Vance & Hines

Nick Armstrong (No. 60 Competitive Racing Frames/Lessley Brothers Yamaha MT-07) served up the opener’s biggest surprise with an impressive victory in the Mission Production Twins presented by Vance & Hines Main Event. Armstrong, who’s demonstrated plenty of ability on multiple occasions in the past, will have the opportunity to establish himself a legitimate contender with a similar effort in Fort Worth.

Dan Bromley (No. 62 Vinson Construction/Viper Air Yamaha MT-07) and Jesse Janisch (No. 33 Vance & Hines Harley-Davidson XG750R) are already at that level and proved themselves to be frontrunners once again as the new season got underway. The two also showed the potential of the Mission Production Twins Challenge as they mixed it up with some big names in the premier-class Main as well.

And, as in the premier class, the Mission Foods/Roof Systems-backed pilots will be looking to their sponsors’ home round to get their title campaigns rolling. Ben Lowe (No. 25 Helipower Racing/Mission Foods Harley-Davidson XG750R) and Cory Texter (No. 1 G&G Racing/Yamaha Racing Yamaha MT-07) finished the opener in sixth and seventh, respectively, will be aiming for more this upcoming Saturday night.

It’s also worth remembering that the last time the series’ raced at Texas Motor Speedway, Texter made history alongside his sister, Shayna Texter-Bauman (No. 52 Indian Motorcycle/Progressive Insurance FTR750), when the two became the first siblings to win Progressive AFT Main Events on the same evening.

Among the other riders worth monitoring are Chad Cose (No. 49 DPC Racing/Voodoo Ranger Harley-Davidson XG750R), Johnny Lewis (No. 10 Moto Anatomy X Powered by Royal Enfield 650), Ryan Varnes (No. 68 Schaeffer’s Motorsports/Rausch Fuel & Oil KTM 890 Duke) and Kolby Carlile (No. 36 KC36 Las Vegas Harley-Davidson XG750R).

Parts Unlimited AFT Singles presented by KICKER

Kody Kopp (No. 12 Red Bull KTM Factory Racing 450 SX-FFE), Max Whale (No. 18 Red Bull KTM Factory Racing 450 SX-FFE), and Dalton Gauthier (No. 79 American Honda/Progressive Insurance CRF450R) came into the season as popular picks to claim the 2022 Parts Unlimited AFT Singles presented by KICKER title, and they did nothing to dispel their early status as championship favorites with a 1-2-3 performance at the opener.

The three figure to spend a lot of time up front this season, and it will be up to the remainder of the field to prevent them from dominating the podium. As always, there’s no lack of talent with the capacity to do exactly that in the always loaded class.

Trent Lowe (No. 48 Mission Foods/Al Lamb’s Dallas Honda CRF450R), who finished just off the podium in Volusia, falls into that camp of riders looking to impress in front of his sponsors. Morgen Mischler (No. 13 American Honda/Progressive Insurance CRF450R) and Aiden RoosEvans (No. 26 Southern Illinois Motorsports Honda CRF450R) also got off to strong starts while leaving some room for improvement.

A couple of rookies made their spoiler potential obvious with eye-catching debuts. Chase Saathoff (No. 106 American Honda/Progressive Insurance CRF450R) and Tyler Scott (No. 170 Briggsauto.com/Martin Trucking KTM 450 SX-F) showcased race-winning speed in their maiden professional rides and only expect to get stronger with additional experience and opportunity.

Along with the on-track action, there will be an abundance of additional attractions on Saturday night at Texas Motor Speedway, including live music, vendors, and a Kids Zone.

Fans are also invited to attend the Al Lamb’s Dallas Honda Pre-Party on Friday night where they can meet their favorite teams and riders at the dealership from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. local time.

Visit https://store.americanflattrack.com/ebooking/ticket/view/id/3691 to purchase your tickets for the Mission Texas Half-Mile presented by Roof Systems today. General Admission Grandstand tickets are $40 and kids 12 and under are free when accompanied by an adult. Fans who would like to be centrally located nearest to the start/finish line can select seats in the Premium General Admission Grandstand for just $10 more. There’s also the option to host a group of up to 20 people in one of the private, climate-controlled Indoor Suites, which are available to rent for $1,500. Paddock Access Upgrades are also available for purchase, providing all-day access to the pits where fans can scope out the world’s fastest dirt track motorcycles and get up close and personal with the stars of the sport.

Gates will open for fans at 3:30 p.m. local time with Opening Ceremonies scheduled to begin at 7:00 p.m. ET/4:00 p.m. PT ahead the evening’s Main Event program. You can catch the livestream of all the weekend’s racing activities free via Facebook up until Opening Ceremonies. Fans can then purchase access to watch Opening Ceremonies, Semis, Main Events, and podium celebrations via Facebook Paid Online Events for $3.99 if purchased 24 hours or more in advance, or $4.99 if purchased on the day of the event.

The Mission Texas Half-Mile will premiere on FS1 on Sunday, March 27, at 1:00 p.m. ET/10:00 a.m. PT., including exclusive features, cutting-edge aerial drone and onboard footage, and expert commentary.

For more information on Progressive AFT visit https://www.americanflattrack.com. To score the latest gear for the Progressive American Flat Track fan, visit our official merchandise store at https://store.americanflattrack.com.

How to Watch:

FOX Sports and Facebook are the official homes for coverage of Progressive American Flat Track. For the 2022 season, all 18 races will premiere in one-hour telecasts on FS1 during highly desirable weekend time slots. The complete schedule can be viewed at https://www.americanflattrack.com/events-foxsports. Viewers can watch livestream coverage of every round in the Facebook mobile app, Facebook desktop site or on the Facebook Watch mobile app. To watch the livestream on TV, fans can download the Facebook Watch TV app, or cast to a TV from the Facebook mobile app. Facebook Watch is available through Apple TV, Samsung Smart TV, Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast, and Xbox One.

WorldSBK: Aruba.it Racing Ducati Team Unveils 2022 Livery

David Swarts

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March 15, 2022

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WorldSBK: Aruba.it Racing Ducati Team Unveils 2022 Livery

The Aruba.it Racing – Ducati team presents the new liveries of the Ducati Panigale V4R for the 2022 WorldSBK season

The traditional bike unveiling and the official photo shoot marked the start of 2022 World SBK season for the Aruba.it Racing-Ducati Team at the World Misano Circuit, where Alvaro Bautista and Michael Ruben Rinaldi are getting ready for a two-day test.

The return of the Spanish rider – a standout in the 2019 season with his 16 victories, 11 in a row at the start of the season – represents the most important novelty, as do the liveries of the Ducati Panigale V4R: compared to the ones seen in action over the past three years, 2022 liveries show a renewed design.

Alongside Alvaro Bautista, the confirmation of Michael Ruben Rinaldi, outstanding protagonist of 2021 Misano Round, ready to make the final leap in quality in the next WorldSBK campaign.

The 2022 season of the Aruba.it Racing – Ducati team will kick off at Aragon (Spain) on the second weekend of April and will be presented through the “Season Launch” video, to be released on Thursday 7 April.

And the news doesn’t end there. Nicolò Bulega will make his debut at Aragon in the World Supersport Championship, riding the Ducati Panigale V2 of the Aruba.it Racing WSSP team. An engaging challenge that will see Ducati partecipating with several teams in a championship that is getting growing interest and that promises to offer new emotions to fans all over the world in 2022 season.

Stefano Cecconi (CEO Aruba S.p.A. and Team Principal Aruba.it Racing – Ducati)

“We look at the 2022 WorldSBK season with high ambition and strong determination. The goal of our team is to always take a step forward, year after year, in terms of performance and results. This is the reason why we are proud to represent Ducati in the World Superbike Championship, feeling the presence and passion of the Ducatista people on every circuit. We have bet on Alvaro Bautista’s return and we want to fight with him a more exciting season than the 2019, which gave us great satisfactions after all. We firmly believe in Michael Rinaldi and we reckon he is ready to take that significant step forward after the steady growth he has shown so far. Moreover, as Aruba.it Racing, we will be protagonists of a new adventure with Nicolò Bulega and the Ducati Panigale V2 in the SuperSport World Championship. Another fascinating challenge that underlines our growing commitment. I would like to wish the best of luck to the riders and to all the members of our teams, whose sense of belonging makes us proud and pushes us to give more and more every year”.

Claudio Domenicali (Chief Executive Officer Ducati Motor Holding)

“We share values, skills, goals, targets with Aruba.it. Plus, we both believe in the importance of innovation and technology. Aruba.it is a strategic partner, on and off the track, and we are happy to start another season together in the WorldSBK Championship, the most important production-based racing Championship. The bikes our fans can buy are as close as possible to the bikes that race track like the Panigale V4 and, from this year, the Panigale V2 that will make its debut in the World Supersport Championship. This is our philosophy of putting racing technology at the service of our passionate and sporty customers. The Aruba.it Racing – Ducati team is a perfect mix of experience and enthusiasm thanks to the return of Alvaro Bautista and the confirmation of Michael Ruben Rinaldi. I wish them and the whole team the best of luck for the 2022 season.”

Luigi Dall’Igna (Ducati Corse General Manager)

“The level of WorldSBK is growing every year, as well as the competition. Obviously, this doesn’t scare us, and on the contrary, it pushes us to give more and more, work more carefully and focus on every single detail. In the 2021 World Championship, our team was the only one to have won at least one race with both riders, and this confirms the potential of the Panigale V4R. To achieve our most important goal, we rely on Alvaro Bautista’s return – who needs no introduction – and Michael Rinaldi’s desire to impress. In addition, in the 2022 season, we will also be competing in the World Supersport Championship with the Panigale V2. It’s a fascinating challenge that underlines Ducati’s deep commitment to the world of production-based racing.”

Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati #19)

“I am very happy to be back in this fantastic team, with Aruba.it and Ducati. It feels like a real family to me and finding basically the team I worked with in 2019 has been of paramount importance. My feelings with the Panigale V4R were immediately very positive: I think the bike is even more balanced than the one I left. With such a competitive team and machine, obviously the goal is to aim for the title. I have more experience, I know the tyres and the format of the competition better, but it will still be crucial to learn from the mistakes of three years ago. Winter tests got me very excited and I can’t wait to get on track at Aragon”.

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

“The 2022 championship is about to start: it will be my second season with the official team even though I have been part of the Aruba.it family for many years now. This is why the time has come to reap the benefits we have sown so far. It will not be easy because the competition is huge but I believe that these years together can be a solid base to create something good. It will be a very important championship both for me and for the team and my future career could also depend on this season. I will certainly give my best and with the help of the team I am sure we can achieve important results. I’m very happy and I want to thank Aruba.it, Ducati and all the sponsors who have allowed me to take on this fascinating challenge”.

Nicolò Bulega and his Ducati Panigale V2 World Supersport racebike. Photo courtesy Ducati.

Nicolò Bulega (Aruba.it Racing WSSP Team #11)

“I’m very motivated for this new adventure. It’s a great opportunity for me and I feel I have all the requirements to do well. The tests have been very positive, I felt comfortable both with the Panigale V2 and with the team, which is very important to me. It’s going to be a tough season for sure and for this reason we need to put our heads together and try to get the most out of every single race”.

Dunning Wins Bridgestone Motorcycle Tires In Reader Survey Part 5

David Swarts

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March 15, 2022

0

Dunning Wins Bridgestone Motorcycle Tires In Reader Survey Part 5

The Roadracing World 2022 Reader Survey, Part 5, was brought to you by Bridgestone.

Paul Dunning, of Cave Creek, Arizona, is the winner of this survey’s prize – a set of Bridgestone motorcycle tires, one front and one rear, of the his choosing.

Bridgestone tires for all types of motorcycles are available at authorized Bridgestone dealers around the United States. Find your nearest dealer here.

Survey results are used to improve content for readers and marketing for our advertisers. Name and address required for prize drawing. Entrants will automatically receive a free three-issue trial subscription to Roadracing World magazine with no obligation. No mailing list or confidential individual information is shared with third parties. Roadracing World’s privacy policy can be viewed here. To sign up to receive upcoming, short installments of future Roadracing World reader surveys and other promotional e-mails from Roadracing World, CLICK HERE.

For more information on how your product can be the presenting sponsor of an upcoming portion of the Roadracing World 2022 Reader Survey, email Anne Roberts, [email protected].

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Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club Celebrating 45th Anniversary

March 17, 2022

A vintage Honda CB750. Photo courtesy Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club .

The Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club is celebrating its 45th Anniversary this year.

Founded in 1977, VJMC is the premier North American Club dedicated to the preservation, restoration, and enjoyment of vintage Japanese motorcycles (20 years old or older) and the promotion of the sport of motorcycling. The VJMC hallmark is “participation at all levels and to have fun” – for all motorcycle enthusiasts young and old.

This year’s National Rally will take place in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, June 23rd – 26th. Pre-registration is required for all attendees.

Membership is $35 per year and includes a full-color 64+ page magazine printed six times per year, rides, rallies and shows at local, regional, and national events. The VJMC has over 3,300 members and is a totally volunteer-based, nonprofit Club.

Tom Kolenko, President of VJMC: “This club has been successful for 45 years because it brings people and vintage Japanese bikes together for fun, friendship, and new riding experiences. We have a great vintage community that celebrates the past while riding into the future.”

For more information visit www.vjmc.org or call (763) 420-7829.

R.I.P. Stunt Rider Chris Pfeiffer

March 16, 2022

Chris Pfeiffer performing at BMW Motorrad Days in Germany in 2015. Photo courtesy BMW Motorrad. — Chris Pfeiffer performing at BMW Motorrad Days in Germany in 2015. Pfeiffer was a BMW Ambassador for over 10 years. Photo courtesy BMW Motorrad.

Professional stunt rider Chris Pfeiffer has died, according to a tweet from BMW Motorrad UK. He was 51.

Germany’s Speedweek.com is reporting Pfeiffer suffered from depression and committed suicide at his home “last weekend.”

Pfeiffer performed “thousands of shows all around the world – in 94 countries” during a 20-year career that also included him winning trials and enduro competitions, earning four World Championships in stunt riding, and holding multiple Guinness World Records, according to the German’s Facebook page.

According to www.news.com.au, Pfeiffer is survived by his wife Renate and children Pia, Amelie and Hannes.

MotoAmerica: Tytlers Cycle Racing Fielding Barbera & Jacobsen On BMW Superbikes

March 16, 2022

Hector Barbera (80) at speed on his Aftercare BMW S1000RR Superbike. Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy Scheibe Racing. — Hector Barbera (80) at speed on his BMW S1000RR Superbike during the 2021 MotoAmerica season. Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy Scheibe Racing.