MotoAmerica: Suzuki Fielding Landers In Stock 1000, Chapin In Twins (Updated)

Michael Gougis

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January 30, 2025

MotoAmerica: Suzuki Fielding Landers In Stock 1000, Chapin In Twins (Updated)

Suzuki Motor USA, LLC reaffirms its commitment to professional road racing with the announcement of two exceptional riders set to compete in the 2025 MotoAmerica season. Multi-time champion Rocco Landers and rising star Matthew Chapin will showcase their talents aboard Suzuki machinery in the highly competitive Stock 1000 and Twins Cup classes, respectively.

Rocco Landers is set to pilot the RevZilla/Motul/Vance & Hines Suzuki GSX-R1000R as he takes the next step in his racing career.

Three-time MotoAmerica Champion Rocco Landers is set to step up to the Stock 1000 class in 2025, piloting the RevZilla/Motul/Vance & Hines Suzuki GSX-R1000R. Landers has consistently proven himself as one of the most versatile and accomplished riders in the MotoAmerica paddock, amassing 54 career wins and 81 podiums across multiple classes, including Junior Cup, Twins Cup, Supersport, and King of the Baggers.

Following an impressive 2024 season, where he took the all-new GSX-8R to second overall in the Twins Cup Championship with four national event wins, Landers is eager to take on the challenge of Stock 1000 competition.

“I’m incredibly excited to step up to the Stock 1000 class with Vance & Hines Motorsports,” said Landers. “The Suzuki GSX-R1000R is an amazing machine, and I’m confident in the team around me. This is an important step in my career, and I’m ready to give it my all. I can’t wait to get started and see what we can accomplish in 2025.”

Matthew Chapin. Photo courtesy Vance & Hines/Suzuki.

Defending MotoAmerica Junior Cup National Champion Matthew Chapin will make his debut in the MotoAmerica Twins Cup aboard the RevZilla/Motul/Vance & Hines Suzuki GSX-8R. Chapin’s dominance in the 2024 Junior Cup season, where he secured seven wins and nine podiums, has established him as one of the brightest young talents in American road racing. As he transitions to the Twins Cup, he will bring his race-winning pedigree and relentless determination to this fiercely competitive category.

“I’m beyond excited to join Vance & Hines Motorsports and take on this new challenge in the MotoAmerica Twins Cup,” said Chapin. “I know the competition will be tough, but I’m ready to push myself, learn, and give it everything I have. I can’t wait to start testing and prepare for Daytona.”

Terry Vance, owner of Vance & Hines Motorsports, shared his excitement about the team’s 2025 lineup:

“We have always been committed to developing young talent, and both Matthew and Rocco have proven themselves as top competitors. Watching Matthew’s performance in the Junior Cup, we knew he had what it takes to succeed at the next level, and we’re excited to see him step up to the Twins Cup. Rocco has consistently shown his ability to win across multiple classes, and we have no doubt he will be a force in Stock 1000. The Suzuki GSX-R1000R is a proven championship-winning platform, and with Rocco’s talent and work ethic, we expect to see great results this season.”

Suzuki Motor USA remains dedicated to racing excellence and the continued development of elite riders through its collaboration with Vance & Hines Motorsports. With Chapin and Landers leading the charge in their respective classes, Suzuki is poised for an exciting and competitive 2025 MotoAmerica season.

More, from a press release issued by Vance & Hines Motorsports:

Rocco Landers Set to Tackle Stock1000 Class in 2025 MotoAmerica Season

Vance & Hines Motorsports is proud to announce that three-time MotoAmerica Champion Rocco Landers will step up to the Stock1000 class for the 2025 season, riding the RevZilla/Motul/Vance & Hines Suzuki team’s 2025 Suzuki GSX-R1000R.

Rocco’s impressive career trajectory has seen him excel across multiple MotoAmerica classes, including a standout performance in the 2024 season, where he earned four national event wins in the Twins Cup Championship and finished 2nd overall aboard the Suzuki GSX-8R. With 54 career wins and 81 podiums across MotoAmerica’s Junior Cup, Twins Cup, Supersport, and King of the Baggers classes, Rocco is eager to bring his talent and determination to one of the most competitive series in the MotoAmerica lineup.

“I’m incredibly excited to make the jump to the Stock1000 class with Vance & Hines Motorsports,” said Landers. “The Suzuki GSX-R1000R is an incredible machine, and the RevZilla/Motul/Vance & Hines Suzuki team has given me everything I need to be competitive. This is a big step forward in my career, and I’m ready to give it my all. I can’t wait to get started and see what we can achieve in 2025.”

Rocco’s promotion to Stock1000 comes on the heels of his success in the Twins Cup, where he was a consistent race winner and brought excitement to the grid. Known for his fearless riding style and vibrant personality, Landers is expected to make an immediate impact in the Stock1000 class.

“We couldn’t be more excited for Rocco to take this next step,” said Terry Vance, owner of Vance & Hines Motorsports. “He’s proven time and again that he’s a winner, and we believe the Stock1000 class will give him the opportunity to show just how far his talent can take him. The Suzuki GSX-R1000 R is a powerhouse, and with Rocco’s skills and determination, Vance & Hines Motorsports expects great results.”

The 2025 MotoAmerica Stock1000 season kicks off at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta, Atlanta, May 2-4.

Chapin Set to Lead Vance & Hines Motorsports in MotoAmerica Twins Cup

Vance & Hines Motorsports is excited to announce that Matthew Chapin will race for the RevZilla/Motul/Vance & Hines Suzuki team aboard the Suzuki GSX-8R in the 2025 MotoAmerica Twins Cup season—a machine that has proven to be a strong contender in this highly competitive class.

Chapin, an honor roll student and the reigning MotoAmerica Junior Cup National Champion, brings an impressive racing pedigree to the team. In 2024, Chapin dominated the Junior Cup with 7 wins and 9 podiums, showcasing his consistency, discipline, and raw talent. His progression through the ranks has been nothing short of remarkable, and the Vance & Hines Motorsports team is excited to support his continued growth as he steps up to the Twins Cup.

“I’m beyond excited to join Vance & Hines Motorsports and take on this new challenge in the MotoAmerica Twins Cup,” said Chapin. “I’ve been watching this series closely, and I know the competition is fierce, but I’m ready to learn, adapt, and give it everything I’ve got. I can’t wait to start testing and prepare for Daytona.”

Terry Vance, owner of Vance & Hines Motorsports. “We’re excited to bring Matthew into the fold. We love young talent and after watching his performance in the Junior Cup Series, we’re looking forward to seeing what he can achieve in the Twins Cup. This season is shaping up to be a memorable one for Vance & Hines Motorsports.”

The 2025 MotoAmerica Twins Cup season kicks off at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Florida, March 6-8.

MotoGP: KTM Unveils 2025 Livery; “We Are Here To Race”

Michael Gougis

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January 30, 2025

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MotoGP: KTM Unveils 2025 Livery; “We Are Here To Race”

Red Bull KTM Factory Racing and Red Bull KTM Tech3 have revealed the 2025 KTM RC16s for the manufacturer’s ninth year in the series and will enter the fray with its strongest line-up to-date.

KTM are aiming to boost their figures of seven GP wins and two Sprint wins. They will be represented by Italian, Spanish and South African talent in 2025. Red Bull KTM Factory Racing and Red Bull KTM Tech3 will boast talent that have secured five world championships and a total of 72 wins across the categories. All four riders have won in Grand Prix.

The KTM GP Academy will continue to develop and help young racers making their way through the ranks from the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup to Moto3™, Moto2™ and to the premier class of MotoGP.

Brad Binder (29, from Potchefstroom with 17 wins, 2 in MotoGP) and Pedro Acosta (20, from Murcia with 16 wins) will team-up for Red Bull KTM Factory Racing. Enea Bastianini (27, from Rimini with 13 wins, 7 in MotoGP) Maverick Viñales (30, from Roses with 26 wins, 10 in MotoGP) are the charges for Red Bull KTM Tech3 this year and all 22 rounds of the championship that will visit 18 countries.

Binder approaches his sixth campaign in MotoGP and has classified in the top six for the previous four seasons in a row and in the top five for the last two. 2025 will be his sixth as part of the Red Bull KTM crew in MotoGP. The South African will be joined by Pedro Acosta, the youngest rider on the grid, for his second term and after an impressive rookie year in 2024 where he finished 6th in the championship and with five podium results. Like Binder, Acosta has sailed through the Grand Prix ‘pyramid’ in Red Bull colors and through the KTM GP Academy at every step.

Bastianini and Viñales are new recruits for the family but bring a wealth of experience, knowledge and potential into the camp. Bastianini stood on the box nine times (twice from the top step) last season as he finished P4 in the standings. The Italian has grabbed a podium trophy at least once in all four of his years in the MotoGP class so far. Viñales has enormous pedigree and has toasted success in the premier class with three different manufacturers; the last coming at the Red Bull Grand Prix of the Americas in 2024. Maverick was 7th best last year, meaning that KTM will assist four racers from the first seven places in the rankings going into the new contest.

Brad Binder, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing: “It is crazy to think that this is my sixth season in MotoGP already. To be honest 2024 was the year where I probably learnt the most. Coming into 2025 I feel that it has made me a much better rider. My goal for the season is to take what I learnt and make that step forward to fight with the guys at the front. We are not far. We finished 2nd in the Constructors championship so we have one left in front of us. When I see how hard people are working at the factory and how much energy there is behind the scenes it is clear we are going to get there.”

Pedro Acosta, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing: “For sure, 2024 was a good year, and we still have some goals that we keep in the pocket. I learned how to control a race, and how to adapt to MotoGP. It was a dream come true coming to the factory team after being in Moto3 and Moto2. Also having Brad as a teammate and helping develop the bike will be a very good point. It will help that he has a lot of experience in the class and I think we will make a good match together. The two main important points for 2025 will be the qualifying and then the first few laps of the race. Last year we saw that we had pace to fight for podiums or wins but we were struggling during qualifying. So, these two points will be the most important things to improve during this season.”

Enea Bastianini, Red Bull KTM Tech3: “I’m very curious for this season.We have to stay calm at the start because it’s important to understand the bike and the team. But I’m motivated and I think that about the third or fourth race we can be competitive. When I tried the bike I understood all the potential and it’s impressive how you can go on the edge of the corner and how the gearbox is faster, it’s so fast. So, yeah, I’m very impressed.”

Maverick Viñales, Red Bull KTM Tech3: “To wear the Red Bull KTM colors feels very good. Since I’ve been a kid I’ve seen them on motocross, on racing…so, it’s a dream team for me. My first thought of the KTM RC16 was: “wow, this is a beast, it’s fast!”. I remember in Montmelo it was very fast, and this is important in the new MotoGP era, as most of the race are the first five-six laps. The first year when you go to a new bike, you need to be always concentrated, always open to new experiences. Every time you go to a new track it’s a completely different experience from the previous years so you have to have an open mentality and be very focused, so my objective is to be focused and to be able to perform at my maximum. The good thing is that as soon as I jump on the KTM it feels like home. It’s a bike that I like, that suits my riding style, entering the corner. So, this is a very important thing.”

Aki Ajo, Team Manager, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing: “We are enthusiastic about the season ahead of us. We have been working hard during the winter to develop our project and the RC16 to be even faster and better than last season. Our aim is high, but we are prepared to keep working hard, and it is a joy to have such skilled and dedicated people in the project, and in the company. Our motivation is high, and I believe that we have made some important progress to enhance our performance. We have also strong and experienced riders, and we are all very motivated and look forward to the action of the new 2025 season. Thank you to all the staff, partners and the management and all the people at KTM that have shown big support MotoGP project. We are ready to race.”

Nicolas Goyon, Team Manager, Red Bull KTM Tech3: “The wait is finally over, and we are all really excited to launch our 2025 MotoGP season. We are back to Red Bull KTM colours, with two amazing talents, who we are all really thrilled to welcome amongst our ranks. Maverick and Enea are both extremely experienced riders, cumulating between the two of them 17 wins and over 50 podiums in MotoGP, and they will form the strongest line up Tech3 has ever had. We believe they will both be a great fit in our project, and strong assets for the brand. We are thankful to Red Bull KTM for trusting us with two brilliant riders, and we will do everything we can to take the MotoGP project to the next level.”

Pit Beirer, KTM Motorsports Director: “There have been many questions but we have been clear since the last day of the 2024 season: we are here to race and we are very serious about success in this fantastic championship that spreads motorcycling and motorcycle racing to many corners of the world. 2025 has started strongly for us with the important Dakar victory and also winning in AMA Supercross, now it is a real pleasure to present our MotoGP teams and see our bike ready to race for the ninth year in a row. Competition is such a big part of KTM’s DNA and we are committed. For the coming season and with Brad, Pedro, Enea and Maverick as well as all the experience and knowledge in the pitboxes there is a lot of positivity and adrenaline to get started. This season could be massive for us, and I hope it will be.”

World Endurance: Team LRP Poland Adds TT Legend Dunlop For 2025

Michael Gougis

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January 30, 2025

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World Endurance: Team LRP Poland Adds TT Legend Dunlop For 2025

Team LRP Poland has announced its return to the FIM Endurance World Championship with “a strong, international line-up and a key new partner” for the upcoming season after a year of preparation at national level.

Isle of Man TT legend Michael Dunlop took part in the 2024 24 Heures Motos. Photo courtesy EWC.

One of the EWC’s leading independent outfits, Team LRP Poland has recruited Frenchman Enzo Boulom, Isle of Man TT legend Michael Dunlop from Northern Ireland, Englishman Danny Webb and Pole Marek Szkopek to share its latest-specification BMW M 1000 RR run on Dunlop tyres.

Bartłomiej Lewandowski’s team has also strengthened its long-standing collaboration with the Wrocław University of Science and Technology, which will serve as the squad’s base with students and graduates once again forming a strong part of the pit crew during all EWC races. Technical Director Marcin Kolanowski continues to oversee the preparation of the Team LRP Poland BMW motorcycles.

“We are thrilled to return to action in the most demanding motorcycle racing series in the world,” said Lewandowski, Team Principal of Team LRP Poland and the highest ranked Polish rider in EWC history. “The past year gave us the opportunity to prepare thoroughly for the 2025 season. We’re coming back with a new, fast, and experienced line-up that we’re incredibly proud of, as well as new partners.

“We’re strengthening our collaboration with the Wrocław University of Science and Technology and welcoming Dunlop onboard as our tyre supplier. Their support means a lot to us, providing not only access to prototype tyres but also the expertise of their top technicians.

“At the same time, we’re excited to welcome our new, yet highly experienced, riders. Danny brings a wealth of experience from grand prix racing and the FIM EWC, while Michael is a true legend and an extraordinary athlete whose determination inspires everyone. I’m confident we will leverage our collective experience and have a highly successful season together.”

Team LRP Poland will enter Boulom, Dunlop and Webb for the EWC season-opening 24 Heures Motos at Le Mans in France from 17-20 April with Szkopek replacing Dunlop for the 8 Hours of Spa Motos from 6-7 June due to Dunlop’s planned participation in the Isle of Man TT Races.

Dunlop returned to the EWC during last season’s 24 Heures Motos and joins Boulom and Webb in graduating from the Superstock category to Formula EWC. Szkopek, an EWC regular in the past, joined Team LRP Poland from fellow Polish outfit Wójcik Racing Team in 2023 and has several Polish Superbike titles to his name as well as significant international experience.

FIM Endurance World Championship calendar 2025

Round 1: 24 Heures Motos, Le Mans, France: 17-20 April
Ticket sales: https://ticket.24h-motos.com/content

Round 2: 8 Hours of Spa Motos, Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps, Belgium: 6-7 June
Ticket sales: https://www.spamotos.com/en/ticketing/

Round 3: 46th Coca-Cola Suzuka 8 Hours Endurance Race, Suzuka Circuit, Japan: 1-3 August
Ticket sales: Information coming soon

Round 4: Bol d’Or, Circuit Paul Ricard, France: 18-21 September
Ticket sales: https://boldor.com/billetterie/

Z2 Track Days Releases Tentative 2025 Schedule

John Ulrich

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January 30, 2025

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Z2 Track Days Releases Tentative 2025 Schedule

The 2025 season is just around the corner, and as we finalize our schedule, we’re excited to invite you to Iron Steed in Vacaville for the Pro-Rider Series. Join us on Saturday, February 8, to see our very own Shawn Reilly and gain expert advice on sharpening your riding skills—whether you’re gearing up for track days or simply looking to improve your everyday street riding. Spots are limited, so be sure to reserve yours today!

For all the event details, visit: https://ironsteedhd.com/event/35553/pro-rider-series

TENTATIVE 2025 Z2 Schedule

Here’s what you want to know: The 2025 track day schedule. Keep in mind that dates CAN and DO change so while we’re 98% sure this schedule will be final, anything’s possible. These are all the details we have for now! More information like when signups will become available or Laguna sound info will be coming soon.

▪ 5/12 Monday Sonoma

▪ 5/24-25 Saturday/Sunday Thunderhill West

▪ 6/9 Monday Sonoma

▪ 6/28-29 Saturday/Sunday Thunderhill 5-mile, East

▪ 8/25-26 Monday/Tuesday Sonoma (proposed Yamaha R/World)

▪ 9/6-7 Saturday/Sunday Thunderhill East

▪ 9/22-23 Monday/Tuesday Sonoma

▪ TBD Laguna

MotoAmerica: Rahal Ducati To Skip Daytona 200

Michael Gougis

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January 29, 2025

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MotoAmerica: Rahal Ducati To Skip Daytona 200

Rahal Ducati Moto has decided to skip the upcoming Daytona 200, according to a report published on MotoAmerica.com.

In a letter to sponsors and partners, Rahal said the race’s non-points status with MotoAmerica meant that the additional expenses associated with racing the event could not be justified.

Roadracing World has reached out to Rahal for comment.

The 83rd running of the Daytona 200 is set for Daytona International Speedway on March 6-8, 2025.

The full report on the MotoAmerica website can be found here.

World Endurance: ERC Returns With Fores, BMW

Michael Gougis

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January 29, 2025

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World Endurance: ERC Returns With Fores, BMW

Xavi Forés will swap chasing FIM Endurance World Championship success on track to off it as Uwe Reinhardt’s ERC Endurance squad returns to the EWC in 2025.

Ex-World Superbike racer Forés, who rode for ERC Endurance in the EWC between 2022 and 2023, has been appointed Team Manager for the Germany-based outfit, which is making its comeback to the championship following a one-year break.

After almost four full seasons running Ducati motorcycles, ERC will count on BMW power once again. It will compete under the ERC BMW Endurance Team banner and use Dunlop tyres.

Long-term ERC rider David Checa, from Spain, will be joined on the #6 BMW M 1000 RR by Kenny Foray (France) and Illya Mykhalchyk (Ukraine). Germany’s Julian Puffe has been named as the team’s reserve rider.

Although Checa, 44, a four-time EWC champion, is new to BMW power, Mykhalchyk, 28, joins ERC from the BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team, which he helped to two EWC race wins.

Foray, 40, steps up from the Superstock-based FIM Endurance World Cup having competed for Tecmas MRP BMW Racing Team for the past two seasons. A French Superbike champion on four occasions, Foray was team-mate to Checa at GMT94 Yamaha when it won the 2014 FIM Endurance World Championship for Teams.

Twenty-nine-year-old Puffe, meanwhile, rode a BMW for Team LRP Poland in the EWC most recently as 2023.

Forés, 39, explained his new role and ERC BMW Endurance Team’s objectives for the upcoming EWC season: “Uwe Reinhardt needed somebody by his side during the race weeks and he offered me the option to be the Team Manager. After many years of racing, it was the right time to move forward and start a new chapter, so I decided to accept this role and to start to work for my future.

“For sure if I use my experience in racing in the EWC and in different championships and from my experience from the past of being a rider in this team, putting everything together it could be something positive for the team. I am also supported by David Checa who has a lot of experience in endurance. Together we are pushing hard to make this project strong. Also, we have support from BMW and Dunlop.

“Hopefully we can be fighting for the top four, top five in every single race, starting with Le Mans. To be honest we were fighting for wins in the past with the Ducati so if we can manage everything well, then we can be in the mix.”

ERC BMW Endurance Team will enjoy factory support from BMW Motorrad and Dunlop during the upcoming EWC season, which begins with the 24 Heures Motos at Le Mans in France from 17-20 April. The calendar also includes the 8 Hours of Spa Motos (6-7 June), the 46th Coca-Cola Suzuka 8 Hours Endurance Race (1-3 August) and the Bol d’Or (18-21 September).

Operating from Karlsruhe in Germany, ERC BMW Endurance Team will continue to carry the colours of Prokasro, a German robotics company headed by Uwe Reinhardt, a former endurance motorcycle racer. ERC stands for Equipe Reinhardt Competition.

World Superbike: Lowes Fastest At Rain-Hit Portimao Test

Michael Gougis

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January 29, 2025

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World Superbike: Lowes Fastest At Rain-Hit Portimao Test

Day 2 of testing at Portimao marked the end of pre-season testing in Europe, as the paddock now prepares to travel to Phillip Island, Australia, for the Official Test, followed by the season opener.

Adverse weather conditions and rain interruptions limited on-track activity, with many teams opting to save their allocated test days.

Alex Lowes (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team) was the first rider out on track on Wednesday setting the fastest time of the day.

Toprak Razgatlıoglu (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) had a quiet day, completing just four laps as he continued his work from Tuesday. The Turkish rider finished with the second-fastest time of the day and told WorldSBK.com: “I did two or three laps, and after that, my day was finished because I don’t want to ride in wet conditions. My fingers are not 100%, and if I crash in the wet, it would be very dangerous for me because the season is almost starting. Anyway, you know, yesterday we had a very good test.”

Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.It Racing – Ducati) rebounded from Tuesday’s action to set the third-fastest time of the day, despite suffering a crash at Turn 9. He told worldsbk.com: “I tried to ride in the wet, but the track was too slippery. Entering Turn 9, I lost the rear without warning and had a big high side due to the speed of the corner. I hit the ground hard, impacting my head, left arm, and hand. Nothing seems broken, but my hand is sore. I managed a few laps after the crash to check my position on the bike—there’s pain, but it’s normal after such a fall. I hope to recover fully for Phillip Island and rebuild my confidence there.”

Andrea Locatelli (Pata Maxus Yamaha) was the fastest Yamaha rider on Wednesday at Portimao, finishing fourth overall. The Italian posted a best time of 1’43.131s, continuing Yamaha’s evaluation of key components following a productive test at Jerez.

Philipp Oettl (Feel Racing WorldSSP Team) was the sole WorldSSP rider to take to the track today.

NEXT STOP: PHILLIP ISLAND, AUSTRALIA

The MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship is set to debut in a few weeks at Phillip Island, Australia.

WorldSBK and WorldSSP riders will first take part in the Official Test on 17th and 18th February, before the Australian Round from Friday, 21st to Sunday 23rd.

Test Day - FEEL RACING TEST - 29-01-2025

TrackDaz Reschedules First Event on New Buttonwillow Track

John Ulrich

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January 29, 2025

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TrackDaz Reschedules First Event on New Buttonwillow Track

TrackDaz Reschedules Inaugural Motorcycle Event at New Track at Buttonwillow Raceway Park

Buttonwillow, CA – TrackDaz has been forced to reschedule the highly anticipated event at the brand-new race track at Buttonwillow Raceway Park to February 15th and 16th, 2025. Originally slated for February 1st and 2nd, the event faced a last-minute challenge when a vendor reneged on their commitment to supply the essential Airfence softbarrier rental, critical for rider safety. Thanks to the support of Buttonwillow Raceway Park and the aid of the non-profit 501(c)(3) Roadracing World Action Fund, the event is back on track. This will mark the first motorcycle event to be held at the new venue named “The Circuit.”

Dustin Coyner, owner of TrackDaz, expressed his gratitude and unwavering commitment to safety: “We’ve been working for months to ensure that motorcycle events at the new Buttonwillow Raceway Park track prioritize safety above all else. When our vendor unexpectedly backed out, we were on the verge of canceling the event. However, the track management worked with us to find a solution and move the event to mid-February. We’re also incredibly thankful to John Ulrich from the Roadracing World Action Fund for stepping in and helping us secure the Airfence we need to make the event happen.”

For participants who have already registered, no further action is needed if the new dates work for you. If you are unable to attend on February 15th and 16th, TrackDaz will gladly reschedule your entry to another event.

https://www.roadracingworld.com/actionfund/donate/

TrackDaz owner Dustin Coyner explains the situation in the video linked to below:

https://youtu.be/NvStOLRDvmw

Indian Introduces Sport Chief RT and Super Chief Dark Horse

Michael Gougis

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January 29, 2025

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Indian Introduces Sport Chief RT and Super Chief Dark Horse

Building upon its iconic cruiser lineup, Indian Motorcycle, America’s First Motorcycle Company, today announced its 2025 Indian Chief lineup, introducing the Sport Chief RT and Super Chief Dark Horse. Offering superior handling and ride performance, Sport Chief RT takes the beloved Indian Sport Chief to an entirely new level – introducing all-new, custom-inspired premium components.

“When we launched Sport Chief, we raised the bar for performance cruisers,” said Aaron Jax, Vice President for Indian Motorcycle. “After observing the aftermarket landscape, our product team saw an opportunity to design a motorcycle that came standard with high-quality, factory components that were traditionally aftermarket add-ons. With Sport Chief RT, we’re adding custom-inspired componentry to create the ultimate package for riders looking to enhance style, add storage and integrate audio.”

Custom-Inspired Style

Answering the call from riders, Sport Chief RT delivers custom-inspired style straight from the factory. The all-new, all-weather Locking Rigid Saddlebags add sleek style and more than 10 gallons of practical storage, capable of fitting an entire set of riding gear, including boots, pants, a jacket and gloves. Each saddlebag’s large lid with forward hinge layout offers convenient accessibility. – capable of fitting a complete set of riding gear, including boots, pants, jacket and gloves. While standard on Sport Chief RT, the Locking Rigid Saddlebags are compatible and available as accessories across the entire Indian Chief line, offered in color-matched premium paint or a textured black finish.

Sport Chief RT’s custom-inspired styling includes an all-new 2-Up High Bolster Seat, which is also fully compatible as an accessory upgrade across the Indian Chief line. With a sleek design and five inches of bolster, the 2-Up High Bolster Seat delivers an aggressive look while increasing cushion, maximizing comfort for riders and passengers. The bike’s six-inch machined risers with moto-style handlebars and machined triples add premium style with sporty ergonomics straight from the factory. Forward controls keep the rider’s legs in a more relaxed and comfortable position, while its Quarter Fairing and 6.5-inch windscreen provide wind protection with a clean, sporty look. Sport Chief RT features a 19-inch front, and a 16-inch rear contrast cut lightweight cast alloy wheels, wrapped in Metzeler® Cruisetec® tires.

Premium Components

The 2025 Sport Chief RT introduces an all-new PowerBand Audio Bluetooth® Speaker – standard on Sport Chief RT models and available as an accessory across the entire Indian Chief lineup.

The PowerBand Audio Bluetooth® Speaker secures between the Sport Chief RT’s handlebar risers and Quarter Fairing, as two 2.5-inch mid-range speakers, one 4.5-inch subwoofer and two tweeters deliver 90 watts of crystal-clear audio at highway speeds. Featuring a five-band equalizer, accessible via the 4-Inch Touchscreen Display Powered by RIDE COMMAND, riders can personalize their listening experience by selecting the setting best suited for their favorite music genre.

Indian Motorcycle’s 4-Inch Touchscreen Display Powered by RIDE COMMAND is integrated into the dash and can be accessed via handlebar controls or the display directly, with or without gloves. Riders can select music, control audio settings, access bike and ride information, and cycle through multiple interfaces, including two different gauge configurations. With connected services, riders can access turn-by-turn navigation with intuitive search, Bike Health, Bike Locator and more for free for one-year after which an annual fee applies. When pairing the RIDE COMMAND system with a wireless helmet communicator, riders can access their phone information and accept or reject calls directly through the bike’s touchscreen display.

All the rider-centric features riders want, and need, are standard on the Sport Chief RT. Cruise control, keyless ignition, ABS, LED lighting, and a USB charging port provide a premium experience so the rider can focus on the road ahead.

Purpose-Built Performance

At the heart of the Sport Chief RT is Indian Motorcycle’s Thunderstroke 116 V-twin engine. With its air-cooled simplicity, the Sport Chief RT packs 120 ft-lbs of torque for raw passing power. Three ride modes (Sport, Standard, Tour) each provide unique throttle responses to fit riding conditions and match rider preferences.

In addition, KYB® inverted front forks offer superior handling and ride performance. Lighter than standard cartridge style forks, Sport Chief RT’s KYB® inverted front forks provide responsive front-end handling – allowing riders to ride harder with less fatigue and more confidence. Adding comfort and aftermarket style are a pair of Performance Adjustable Piggyback Rear Shocks by FOX®. With easy-to-operate 23-click twist knobs, riders can adjust compression and rebound damping to suit their riding preferences – delivering a smoother, more comfortable ride. Offering confidence-inspiring stopping power and a more responsive feel are the Sport Chief RT’s Dual Brembo® four-piston calipers with semi-floating 320mm rotors.

Accessories

New for 2025 is a High Mounted Tee Bar. Offering a custom edge, the High Mounted Tee Bar provides essential slow-speed tip-over protection while featuring iconic Indian Motorcycle branding on the end caps. The High Mounted Tee Bar seamlessly complements the premium look and feel of any 2022 and newer Indian Chief.

Indian Sport Chief RT riders looking to add personal style and change ergonomics can add 10-inch Moto Handlebar Risers, while low and tall Flared Wind Deflector options are available for the Sport Chief RT’s Quarter Fairing. For added nighttime visibility, the Chief Pathfinder 5 ¾-inch Adaptive LED Headlight projects light a greater distance with a wider spread. Its patented, innovative technology monitors the bike’s lean angle to optimize illumination of the road ahead.

Launching alongside the Sport Chief RT is the new Super Chief Dark Horse. Featuring blacked-out, fender-to-fender styling, with premium gloss paint, the Super Chief Dark Horse delivers even more attitude. Now available in two trim options, Limited and Dark Horse, each Super Chief is powered by the Thunderstroke 116 and comes standard with premium features, including the 4-Inch Touchscreen Display powered by RIDE COMMAND, ride modes, cruise control, keyless ignition, and USB Charging capabilities.

In addition, all 2025 Sport Chief models are standard with forward controls, delivering relaxed and comfortable ergonomics. Riders preferring mid controls can exchange the forwards for Mid Foot Controls and still enjoy their preferred riding ergonomics.

Featuring four models, with varying style trim levels, the 2025 Indian Chief lineup will begin shipping to dealers in February.

Indian Chief

Indian Chief: Starting at $14,999, available in Black Metallic and Heavy Metal

Indian Chief Dark Horse: Starting at $18,499, available in Black Smoke, Blue Dusk, and Sunset Red

Indian Chief Bobber

Indian Chief Bobber: Starting at $17,499, available in Black Smoke and Nara Bronze Smoke

Indian Chief Bobber Dark Horse: Starting at $19,999, available in Black Smoke, Storm Gray, and Maroon Metallic

Indian Super Chief

Indian Super Chief Limited: Starting at $21,999, available in Black Metallic, Spirit Blue, and Sunset Red Metallic

Indian Super Chief Dark Horse: Starting at $21,999, available in Black Smoke and Moss Green Smoke

Indian Sport Chief

Indian Sport Chief: Starting at $19,999, available in Black Smoke, Ghost White Metallic Smoke, Maroon Metallic, and Cascade Green Metallic

Indian Sport Chief RT: Starting at $22,499, available in Black Smoke, Sunset Red Smoke, and Heavy Metal

Roadracing World Now Accepting Applications For Young Gun Awards 2025

John Ulrich

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January 29, 2025

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Roadracing World Now Accepting Applications For Young Gun Awards 2025

We are now accepting nominations and applications for the 29th Annual Roadracing World Young Gun Awards, highlighting up-and-coming young road racers from North America.

To be considered for the Young Guns feature, a racer must be no younger than 11 and no older than 18 on January 1st, 2025; have finished in the top three in a sanctioned Expert-level motorcycle road race or Championship and reside within the United States, Canada, or Mexico or be a citizen of the U.S., Canada, or Mexico.

Riders can nominate themselves. Race sanctioning bodies, sponsors and race teams are encouraged to nominate young riders, but riders or their parents must request and then submit completed applications and provide photos suitable for publication by our deadline to be considered. (This works like a race: If you don’t enter, you won’t get on the grid. Or more specifically, if nobody nominates you or your favorite young racer, you or they won’t be included.)

Riders who have previously been recognized as a Young Gun should email [email protected] to update their profile information and arrange submission of up-to-date photos.

PDFs of the 2024 Young Guns feature in the print magazine appear below. Each rider was also featured individually on roadracingworld.com .

YOUNG GUNS_Pages 44-45_from 0424_RWMT_V18_WEB 1
YOUNG GUNS_Pages 44-45_from 0424_RWMT_V18_WEB 2
YOUNG GUNS_Pages 46 from 0424_RWMT_V18_WEB

An example of an individual rider feature on roadracingworld.com can be seen by clicking on the image below:

Roadracing World Young Guns 2024: Mikey Lou Sanchez

New candidates who wish to be considered for the 2025 Young Guns feature should obtain, fill out and return a 2025 Young Guns questionnaire to Roadracing World by January 30th, 2025. Requests for questionnaires should be sent via e-mail to [email protected].

Questionnaires must be filled out completely in English and be returned as a Word document. Completed questionnaires should be returned to the same [email protected] e-mail address.

An example of a properly filled-out 2024 questionnaire follows:

Rossi Moor

2024 Age: 16.

Current (2024) home: Portland, Oregon.

Current (2024) height/weight: 5′ 11″/153 pounds.

Current (2024) school grade level: 10^th grade.

Began riding at age: 2.5 years.

First road race: 2014, McMinnville, Oregon, Oregon Superbikers, 125cc four-stroke, 1st place.

2024 primary racebike: Suzuki GSX-8R.

2024 team/tuners/mechanics: Vision Wheel M4 ECSTAR Suzuki/Brian Robertson/Robin Hawley.

2024 Primary race series: MotoAmerica Twins Cup.

2024 Sponsors: Vision Wheel, M4 Performance Exhausts, ECSTAR, Suzuki, Mission Foods, Arai, RST, R&G, Hotbodies Racing, Vortex, EK Chains, TechSpec, Cordona, SportbikeTrackGear.com, HEL, 1-833-CJ-KNOWS, Roadracingworld.com, Team Hammer, Polyglass, 2Fast Track Days.

Recent racing accomplishments: 2023 season, finished 2^nd in MotoAmerica Junior Cup Championship (2 wins, 5 total podiums), crashed out of the lead on last lap of CIV Aprilia RS 660 Cup race at Imola, won 12 CVMA race wins; 2022 season, won Northern Talent Cup Championship (5 wins, 10 total podiums in 12 race starts); 2021 season, finished 3^rd in Northern Talent Cup Championship (3 wins and 6 total podiums in 14 races), finished 22^nd while racing as a wild card in the FIM Moto3 Junior World Championship event at Valencia; 2020 season, won MotoAmerica Mini Cup 190 Championship, won FIM Ohvale 190 Mini Road Racing Championship; 2019 season, placed 2^nd in CIV (Italian) Ohvale GP-0 190 National Championship, won MotoAmerica Ohvale Talent Cup at Pittsburgh International Race Complex, won Ohvale GP-0 190 races in Hungarian National Championship, earned pole position and led a race at Ohvale World Championship, finished 25^th in European Talent Cup race at Jerez (was youngest participant).

2024 racing goal: Win MotoAmerica Twins Cup Championship.

Racing career goals: Win MotoGP World Championship.

Racing heroes: Valentino Rossi, Kevin Schwantz, Wayne Rainey.

Favorite tracks: Assen, Sachsenring.

Favorite hobbies: Gaming, cycling, doing wheelies.

If I wasn’t racing I would be…: A fighter.

…

In addition to completed questionnaires, candidates must also submit an action photo and a head shot (a photo clearly showing the rider’s face without sunglasses) suitable for magazine reproduction (head shots taken with smart phones are usually acceptable). Each submitted photo must include written permission (an e-mail is acceptable) from the photographer (even if the photographer is a parent) specifically giving Roadracing World Publishing the right to publish the photo(s) free of charge in the Young Guns feature and on www.roadracingworld.com.

Digital action photos must be high-resolution, or 3000 pixels wide or tall at 4 inches. All photos must be accompanied by the name of the photographer along with when and where the photo was taken, including the name of the racetrack. Photos should not have any watermarks or graphics added, and photo editing should be kept to a minimum. Digital photos are preferred.

Late and incomplete submissions may not be considered.

Young Guns features to date have appeared in the November 1997, March 1999, February 2000, March 2001, February 2002, April 2003, April 2004, May 2005, June 2006, April 2007, April 2008, April 2009, April 2010, April 2011, April 2012, March 2013, April 2014, April 2015, April 2016, April 2017, April 2018, April 2019, April 2020, April 2021, April 2022, April 2023, and April 2024 issues of Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology. The Young Guns Classes of 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024 were also featured individually on www.roadracingworld.com.

Please familiarize yourself with our previously published Young Guns features before contacting us to ask questions.

If you still have questions, e-mail [email protected].

The Roadracing World Young Guns series started as an answer to critics who said North America lacked up-and-coming young riders. Current or former Roadracing World Young Guns have: Raced in all classes of the MotoGP World Championship (including the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup series) and FIM Superbike and Supersport World Championships, winning races and capturing World Championships; competed in European Championships and well as British, Canadian, Chinese, Czech Republic, Dutch, French, German, Italian, Mexican, and Spanish National series; raced in the MotoAmerica AMA/FIM North America Championships (winning many races and Championships in all classes, including multiple Superbike titles); finished on the podium at the Suzuki GSX-R World Cup and the KTM RC Cup World Finals; won Superbike Shootout races in the Superbike and Pro Sportbike classes and won the 2014 Dynojet Pro Sportbike Championship; won Suzuki Cup Championships in the U.S.; earned WERA National Challenge, National Endurance and Sportsman National Championships; won ASRA/Formula USA Grand National and CCS National Championships; collected USGPRU titles; and won many local and regional Championships.

Riders who have been featured in Young Guns include:

2017 MotoAmerica Superstock 600 Champion Jason Aguilar (R.I.P.);

2013 AMA Pro SuperSport East Champion, 2022 MotoAmerica Stock 1000 Champion, and MotoAmerica Superbike podium finisher Corey Alexander;

AMA Pro Daytona SportBike race winner Tommy Aquino (R.I.P.);

2008 Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup Champion, two-time MotoAmerica Supersport Champion, and MotoAmerica Superbike race winner J.D. Beach;

five-time MotoAmerica Superbike Champion Cameron Beaubier;

MotoAmerica Twins Cup race winner Jackson Blackmon;

former Canadian Sport Bike Champion Tomas Casas;

MotoAmerica 2024 Junior Cup Champion Matthew Chapin;

three-time Canadian Sport Bike Champion and 2014 Canadian Superbike Champion Jodi Christie;

MotoAmerica Supersport podium finisher and Canadian Superbike race winner Torin Collins;

former AMA Pro SuperSport East Champion and MotoAmerica Superstock 1000 race winner Josh Day;

2011 Daytona 200 winner Jason DiSalvo;

2014 AMA Pro SuperSport Championship runner-up and current MotoAmerica team owner Dustin Dominguez;

2018 MotoAmerica Junior Cup Champion, 2019 MotoAmerica Twins Cup Champion, and 2021 Canadian Superbike Champion Alex Dumas;

four-time Pikes Peak International Hill Climb race winner and former motorcycle track record holder Carlin Dunne (R.I.P.);

Canadian Superbike race winner Bodhi Edie;

two-time AMA Pro Daytona SportBike Champion, two-time AMA Pro XR1200/Harley-Davidson Champion and four-time Daytona 200 winner Danny Eslick;

2019 MotoAmerica Supersport Champion and 2020 and 2024 MotoAmerica Superbike race winner Bobby Fong;

2010 Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup Champion, 2014 AMA Pro Daytona SportBike Champion, 2015 MotoAmerica AMA/FIM North America Superstock 1000 Champion, and three-time MotoAmerica Superbike Champion Jake Gagne;

two-time MotoAmerica Supersport Champion and World Superbike podium finisher Garrett Gerloff;

2017 MotoAmerica Superstock 600 Championship runner-up Michael Gilbert;

2014 AMA Pro SuperSport Champion, 2023 MotoAmerica Stock 1000 Champion, 2023 MotoAmerica King Of The Baggers Champion, 2024 Loudon Classic winner, and 2024 MotoAmerica Stock 1000 Champion Hayden Gillim;

2002 AMA Superbike Champion and 2006 FIM MotoGP World Champion Nicky Hayden (R.I.P.);

2007 AMA Pro 600cc Supersport Champion, 2014 AMA Pro Superbike Championship runner-up, and 2017 MotoAmerica Superbike Championship runner-up Roger Hayden;

eight-time AMA Pro Superbike race winner and two-time AMA Supersport Champion Tommy Hayden;

2013 AMA Pro Superbike Champion, 2016 MotoAmerica Superstock 1000 Champion, 2022 MotoAmerica Supersport Champion, and 2024 MotoAmerica Superbike Champion Josh Herrin;

MotoAmerica Supersport podium finisher Teagg Hobbs;

AMA Pro Superstock race winner Jake Holden;

2000 AMA Pro 750 Supersport Champion, 2001 AMA Pro Formula Xtreme Champion, 2011 British Superbike Championship runner-up, MotoGP podium finisher, and World Superbike regular John Hopkins;

2015 Supersport World Championship runner-up, 2019 MotoAmerica Supersport Championship runner-up, and 2023 MotoAmerica Superbike race winner Patrick “P.J.” Jacobsen;

2021 MotoAmerica Supersport Champion, Moto2 World Championship competitor, and MotoAmerica Superbike race winner Sean Dylan Kelly;

Canadian Superbike race winner Kevin Lacombe;

two-time MotoAmerica Junior Cup Champion, MotoAmerica Twins Cup Champion, MotoAmerica Supersport race winner, MotoAmerica Baggers race winner Rocco Landers;

two-time MotoAmerica Stock 1000 Champion Andrew Lee;

2021 MotoAmerica Stock 1000 and Superbike Cup Champion Jake Lewis;

MotoAmerica Supersport race winner Sam Lochoff;

MotoAmerica Superstock 600 race winner Nick McFadden;

AMA Pro SuperSport race winner and MotoAmerica Supersport race winner Stefano Mesa;

Elena Myers, the first and only woman to win AMA Pro Supersport races;

AMA Pro XR1200 race winner, multi-time Loudon Classic winner, and 3-time Baggers Racing League (BRL) Champion Shane Narbonne;

2012 Canadian Superbike Championship runner-up Andrew Nelson;

2016 MotoAmerica KTM RC Cup Champion, 2019 British Motostar (Moto3) Champion, MotoAmerica Supersport podium finisher, MotoAmerica Superbike racer and two-time Daytona 200 winner Brandon Paasch;

2012 Daytona 200 winner and 2010 AMA Pro Supersport West Champion Joey Pascarella;

2016 MotoAmerica Superstock 600 Champion and MotoAmerica Supersport podium finisher Bryce Prince;

AMA Pro and Canadian National race winner and multi-time N2/WERA National Endurance Champion Chris Peris;

two-time AMA Pro SuperSport National Champion, British Supersport podium finisher, 2020 AFT Production Twins Champion, and 2024 MotoAmerica King Of The Baggers podium finisher James Rispoli;

2015 MotoAmerica Superstock 600 Champion, MotoAmerica Supersport race winner, and 2023 and 2024 Moto2 World Championship race winner Joe Roberts;

2023 and 2024 MotoAmerica Supersport race winner, 2023 Loudon Classic winner and 2024 Daytona 200 podium finisher Tyler Scott;

former Red Bull AMA U.S. Rookies Cup Champion and former FIM Moto2 European Championship competitor Benny Solis, Jr.;

three-time AMA Pro Superbike Champion, 2009 Superbike World Champion, MotoGP race winner, and AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famer Ben Spies;

multi-time AMA Pro race winner and four-time overall WERA National Endurance Champion Chris Ulrich;

MotoAmerica Supersport and Stock 1000 podium finisher and former World Superbike competitor Jayson Uribe;

2017 MotoAmerica KTM RC Cup Championship runner-up, 2018 MotoAmerica Junior Cup Championship runner-up, and MotoAmerica Supersport podium finisher Cory Ventura;

Canadian Superbike race winner Alex Welsh;

former AMA Pro Superbike Rookie of the Year, Chinese Superbike Championship race winner, MotoAmerica Supersport podium finisher and 2024 MotoAmerica Super Hooligan Champion Cory West;

MotoAmerica Junior Cup and Superbike Cup race winner, and 2024 Superbike Cup Champion Ashton Yates;

and two-time AMA Pro Superbike Championship runner-up Blake Young.

MotoAmerica: Suzuki Fielding Landers In Stock 1000, Chapin In Twins (Updated)

January 30, 2025

Rocco_Suzuki — Rocco Landers. Photo courtesy Vance & Hines/Suzuki.