The FIM, IRTA and Dorna Sports regret to announce the cancellation of the OR Thailand Grand Prix, which was set to take place at Chang International Circuit from the 15th to the 17th of October. Despite the best efforts of all parties involved, the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic and resulting restrictions have obliged the cancellation of the event.
The FIM MotoGP™ World Championship looks forward to returning to race in front of the incredibly passionate Buriram crowd in 2022.
A replacement event is currently under consideration and any updates regarding a possible substitute will be published as soon as available.
Bennetts British Superbike Championship welcomes return of fans to crown Monster Energy King of Brands
The Bennetts British Superbike Championship returns to Brands Hatch this weekend and, following a 644-day wait from the 2019 season finale, fans will be welcomed back to the Kent venue in unrestricted numbers to witness the incredible spectacle of the country’s leading motorsport series.
There have already been three different race winners, plus a further four podium finishers, from the opening six races of this season setting the stage for another close contest this summer weekend. There is added glory up for grabs too, as riders will fight for the Monster Energy King of Brands Trophy.
The VisionTrack Ducati team lead the standings ahead of this weekend’s triple-header after Christian Iddon moved to the top of the standings at Knockhill. His victory last time out puts him six points clear of fierce rival and Oulton Park treble winner Jason O’Halloran.
O’Halloran made one mistake at Knockhill with a crash in race two forcing him to relinquish the series lead to Iddon. The McAMS Yamaha rider was victorious at Brands Hatch last October on his way to second in the title fight, and he will be aiming to regain the position with another strong weekend.
The most successful current Bennetts BSB rider at Brands Hatch is reigning champion Josh Brookes, equal on 19 race victories with Shane Byrne on the Grand Prix circuit. The VisionTrack Ducati rider has had an uncharacteristic start to this title defence, with a best result of sixth place and is currently 11th in the standings.
However, the Australian’s previous record at Brands Hatch is unrivalled by his opponents. The double champion has stood on the podium at the iconic circuit every year he’s competed, aside from 2014, since 2011. Indeed, Brooks has won seven of the last eight races on the Brands Hatch Grand Prix circuit.
Danny Buchan launched into third overall at Knockhill with an impressive double win for the SYNETIQ BMW team; he holds a slight edge over the second McAMS Yamaha rider, Tarran Mackenzie ahead of the three races this weekend.
Rookie Rory Skinner delivered a sensational performance at Knockhill, celebrating a podium finish in only his fifth Bennetts BSB race, before immediately following it up with another second place in the final race of the weekend.
A single point separates Skinner and the FS-3 Kawasaki team from Tommy Bridewell. The Oxford Products Racing Ducati team raced to the rostrum at the season opener and will be hoping to add to their Podium Points tally this weekend.
Peter Hickman and the FHO Racing BMW team debuted with a podium finish at Oulton Park, and after narrowly missing out at Knockhill, will be pushing to score BMW’s first win on the Grand Prix circuit since Michael Laverty in 2015. The team are expected to return to the full line-up at Brands Hatch, with Xavi Forés targeting his debut races in 2021 following injury sustained at Oulton Park.
Lee Jackson currently holds eighth place in the standings, and the FS-3 Kawasaki rider will be pushing to move further up the order this weekend with just a single point separating him from Ryan Vickers, who is just outside the all-important top eight for the RAF Regular & Reserve Kawasaki team.
Rich Energy OMG Racing BMW’s Bradley Ray and Kyle Ryde, plus Honda Racing’s Glenn Irwin and Buildbase Suzuki pairing Gino Rea and Danny Kent will all be pushing to claw their way up the order, as they currently sit outside the top eight positions, which will be critical to their title hopes ahead of the end of year Showdown.
Bennetts British Superbike Championship standings:
Christian Iddon (VisionTrack Ducati) 111
Jason O’Halloran (McAMS Yamaha) 105
Danny Buchan (SYNETIQ BMW) 91
Tarran Mackenzie (McAMS Yamaha) 76
Rory Skinner (FS-3 Kawasaki) 61
Tommy Bridewell (Oxford Products Racing Ducati) 60
Peter Hickman (FHO Racing BMW) 57
Lee Jackson (FS-3 Kawasaki) 46
For more information on the Bennetts British Superbike Championship visit www.britishsuperbike.com
Christian Iddon – VisionTrack Ducati
Championship leader
“It is a cool feeling to be leading the championship and it was great to win at Knockhill. In all honestly and I know I say it a lot, I always approach every event the same – I just go out and give my best.
“I know that the VisionTrack Ducati worked well at Brands Hatch last year and I believe that our set-up has improved since then. I know from what Josh does there, that the bike is super competitive at Brands Hatch. I also know that other riders have very competitive bikes there, like the Yam, and I expect a really strong weekend from Jason and probably more from Taz.
“But it is never easy – you never know what will happen until you get there and can never discount anyone, so I certainly won’t be doing any of that and there is no room for complacency. It can be only a moment in time that you’re in that position, so I am planning to keep us there for as long as possible.”
Royal Enfield, Honda to Offer Demo Rides at 2021 AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days Presented By Royal Enfield
Event takes place July 23-25 in Lexington, Ohio
PICKERINGTON, Ohio — Motorcyclists in the market for a new bike can experience some of the hottest models available from Royal Enfield and American Honda at 2021 AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days, presented by Royal Enfield, July 23-25 at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in Lexington, Ohio.
Royal Enfield Meteor 350 models like these will be included in demo rides at AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days.
Both companies will be on location with demo fleets. Licensed motorcyclists are invited to sign up for test rides during the event.
“AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days might celebrate the long history of motorcycling in America, but our attendees continue to be voracious consumers of new bikes,” said AMA Director of Industry Relations and Business Memberships Steve Gotoski. “Royal Enfield and American Honda are selling some of the most unique and cutting-edge production motorcycles today, with many models evoking motorcycling’s heritage. We’re thrilled to have both companies on location this July 23-25.”
A 2021-model Royal Enfield Himalayan. Photo courtesy Royal Enfield North America.
Royal Enfield intends to have the new Meteor 350, Himalayan and additional 650cc models available for riders to try.
A Royal Enfield Continental GT 650. Photo courtesy Royal Enfield North America.
Honda is bringing a number of new bikes to the event, including Gold Wing standard and DCT clutch models and Rebel 1100 standard and DCT clutch models. In addition, they will have NC750X, CBR300R and Rebel 500 models on hand.
A Honda NC750X. Photo courtesy of American Honda.A 2021 Honda Rebel 1100 DCT. Photo courtesy American Honda.
A 2021 Honda Rebel 1100. Photo courtesy American Honda.
Attendees of AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days, presented by Royal Enfield, should plan to visit each brand’s display early each day to see the demo schedules and book a ride. More information is available at vintagemotorcycledays.com.
A valid motorcycle endorsement is required. Safety rules will be shared at sign up. Be prepared with a helmet, gloves, long sleeves, long pants and over-the-ankle boots.
The 2021 AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days will feature an On Any Sunday theme, celebrating 50 years of Bruce Brown’s epic moto documentary, with AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famer David Aldana — one of the film’s legendary stars — serving as Grand Marshal. There will also be a special outdoor screening of the beloved film on Friday, July 23.
Racers and fans will appreciate all the racing action, from road racing and motocross to cross-country, dirt track and trials — and much of it with an AMA Grand Championship flavor. Riders as young as age 4 are permitted to compete in motocross, while those 12 and up can ride in trials, dirt track and hare-scrambles events. There’s also exhibition pit-bike racing on Saturday. Learn more and register today.
The event will also include all the vintage-oriented happenings that classic-bike fans love, including Hall of Fame activities, Wall of Death and vintage bike shows. Tickets are still available at midohio.com or can be purchased at the gate on the days of the event for an additional $10.
About the American Motorcyclist Association
Founded in 1924, the AMA is a not-for-profit member-based association whose mission is to promote the motorcycle lifestyle and protect the future of motorcycling. As the world’s largest motorcycling rights and event sanctioning organization, the AMA advocates for riders’ interests at all levels of government and sanctions thousands of competition and recreational events every year. The AMA also provides money-saving discounts on products and services for its members. Through the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio, the AMA honors the heroes and heritage of motorcycling. For more information, visit americanmotorcyclist.com.
Ducati Multistrada V4 S is officially radar-certified in North America
Multistrada V4 S radar technology is a revolutionary new system incorporated for the first time on a production motorcycle
Adaptive Cruise Control and Blind Spot Detection provides enhanced levels of rider comfort and convenience
Sunnyvale, Calif. – The Ducati Multistrada V4 S is now radar-certified in North America, allowing riders the capability to enjoy the revolutionary new radar system for the first time on a production motorcycle. This certification will enable North American customers to use Adaptive Cruise Control and Blind Spot Detection systems.
With the radar technology hardware now having been certified, current model-year 2021 Multistrada V4 S owners may have radar software uploaded and calibrated by their dealerships. All 2021 Multistrada V4 S models are equipped with the radar hardware as standard providing the customer the choice to upgrade and activate the radar technology.
“Ducati is proud to be the first to deliver radar on a motorcycle, and the North American release of this technology takes Ducati further into the future of motorcycling,” said Jason Chinnock, Chief Executive Officer of Ducati North America. “We have consistently led the development of emerging technologies, and now with the use of radar we can greatly enhance the convenience and comfort for our riders. The Multistrada V4 S is the perfect application for radar technology, as one of the strengths of this motorcycle is to tackle cross-country adventures. Having the benefits of Adaptive Cruise Control and Blind Sport Detection at the rider’s fingertips will make these journeys even more enjoyable.”
The Multistrada V4 S’s radar technology is an advanced rider aid system that manages two functions: Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and Blind Spot Detection (BSD). The ACC is perfectly integrated into the bike, which by means of controlled braking and acceleration automatically maintains the distance (selectable on four levels) from other vehicles. The ACC system allows for more comfortable riding, especially on long highway journeys. The Blind Spot Detection (BSD) technology, housed under the taillight, can detect and report vehicles approaching in the so-called blind spot, namely the area not visible either directly by the rider or through the rear-view mirror. The BSD system monitors traffic behind the rider and displays a rider warning thanks to the LEDs positioned in the rear-view mirrors. If the user activates the direction indicator expressing the intention to change lane, the BSD flashes the LED signalling a potentially dangerous condition.
The motorcycle is currently available in dealerships throughout North America.
United States pricing for the Multistrada V4 begins at an MSRP of $19,995, with the Multistrada V4 S starting at $24,095 and Multistrada V4 S Sport at $26,095. For Canada, the Multistrada V4 starts at an MSRP of $22,395 CAD and an MSRP of $26,745 CAD for the Multistrada V4 S, with the Multistrada V4 S Sport starting at a Canadian MSRP of $28,795 CAD.
Additional information can be found on Ducati-MultistradaV4.com.
BREMBO OPENS THE FIRST CENTER OF EXCELLENCE IN SILICON VALLEY
The “Brembo Inspiration Lab” will focus on software development, data science and artificial intelligence
Stezzano (BG), Italy, (July 19 2021) – Brembo, a global leader in the development and production of brake systems, announces the opening of its first center of excellence, in California’s Silicon Valley (USA).
The “Brembo Inspiration Lab” will be an innovation lab and it will be focused on strengthening the Company’s expertise in software development, data science and artificial intelligence.
Brembo brakes on a World Superbike. Photo courtesy Brembo North America.
The opening of Brembo’s first center of excellence is a step forward in the path to become a trusted Solution Provider and accelerates the digitalization of the company, one of the key objectives of the strategic vision, Turning Energy into Inspiration, announced by Daniele Schillaci, Brembo’s Chief Executive Officer, in September 2020.
“We are very pleased to open Brembo’s first center of excellence in Silicon Valley. We are entering and investing in this world-renowned location for high technology and innovation with the clear and ambitious goal of addressing the unprecedented challenges impacting the automotive sector” said Daniele Schillaci, Brembo’s Chief Executive Officer. “We are in an era of data science and the application of artificial intelligence, which offers us a great opportunity to build our future and strengthen our technological leadership. With the Brembo Inspiration Lab we accept the challenge to increase the company’s digital culture and to bring ‘Made in Brembo’ innovation even closer to our partners.”
The Brembo Inspiration Lab is expected to open in the fourth quarter of 2021. It will welcome talent from various industries to benefit the development of Brembo’s future braking solutions.
A set of Brembo racing calipers. Photo courtesy Brembo North America.
With the opening of the new center, Brembo expands its international presence and continues to grow in North America, where it has been present for over 30 years. It maintains manufacturing hubs in Michigan, New Jersey and Monterrey, Mexico. Its North American headquarters and R&D center is located in Plymouth, Michigan. The new center of excellence will also be a point of reference for the technological and commercial development of Brembo’s relationships with customers in the Silicon Valley .
About Brembo SpA
Brembo SpA is the world leader and acknowledged innovator of brake technology for automotive vehicles. Brembo supplies high performance brake systems for the most important manufacturers of cars, commercial vehicles and motorbikes worldwide, as well as clutches and other components for racing. Brembo is also a leader in the racing sector and has won more than 500 championships. Today the company operates in 15 countries on 3 continents, with 26 production and business sites, and a pool of over 11,000 employees, about 10% of whom are engineers and product specialists active in the R&D. 2020 turnover is € 2,208.6 million (12.31.2020). Brembo is the owner of the Brembo, Breco, AP, Bybre, and Marchesini, SBS Friction brands and operates through the AP Racing brand.
2021 N2 Raises over $20,000 for Road Racing World Action Fund Airfence!
The 2021 N2 auction benefiting the Roadracing World Action Fund was a massive success, raising $20,038 toward purchasing Airfence soft barriers for events all over the US. The 2021 event is the seventh N2 benefit for the Roadracing World Action Fund and one of the most successful. N2 Track Days’ total contributions to the Roadracing World Action Fund now exceed over $120,000. None of this would have been possible without generous donations from some amazing companies in the industry and the generosity from N2 Members.
The 2021 Auction was held at PittRace International Race Complex with over 200 people in attendance. Participants were able to bid on items in person and online. The online portion of the auction consisted of 83 bidders, with 316 bids, on 45 items, from 18 different states. In addition to the auction, the event raised $5,215 through a raffle, from private donors, and from direct contributions from N2 Track Days.
“This event is very special to us, and we are consistently floored by the generosity of our community and our partners” said N2 COO Jim Curtis. “The companies that donated this year went over and beyond with some amazing contributions. Personally, and from the organization, I would like to say thank you for the generous contribution to this worthy cause.”
Thanks to the following companies for donating items to the auction:
Apex Pro Photography
Armour Bodies/ Woodcraft CFM
Barnes Brothers Motorcycles
Bobblehead Moto
Boxo (RGB Racing)
Chicken Hawk Racing
Dainese
Dauntless
Dunlop / TTMotoGear
Highside Photo
Innovative Motorsports
Karns Performance
KWS Motorsports
MotoAmerica
N2 Track Days
NJ MiniGP
Photos by Marty
Pit Bull
Pit Lane Moto
Pittsburgh International Raceway
REB Graphics
Rise Moto
Scott Powersports
Tech Spec
VNM Sport
Yamaha Champions Riding School
Yamaha Motor USA
Planning for the 2022 N2 auction benefiting the Roadracing World Action Fund has already begun with plans to expand both the size and the reach of the auction. If your company or race team would like to be a part of this amazing event, please reach out to Chip Spalding at [email protected]
About N2 Track Days:
N2 provides a structured riding environment for sport-bike riders of all levels promoting motorcycle safety through instruction on a closed course racetrack. Our instructors and coaching staff are comprised of club-racers, pro racers, and experienced track day riders who are articulate and passionate about all aspects of this sport. N2 strives to provide an enjoyable riding experience in an environment where members can hone their skills and inspire confidence in their riding ability. Riding with N2 means you and your sportbike gain access to a structured environment without the hazards, limitations, distractions, and obstacles that you’ll find on the street. For Information: N2 Track Days – www.N2td.org
About The Roadracing World Action Fund:
The Roadracing World Action Fund is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt charitable organization with a mission to promote motorcycle racing safety education, and in particular, to encourage and facilitate the use of soft barriers at motorcycle road racing, track day, and dirt track events. The pre-inflated soft barriers, designed to help absorb the force of impact, are positioned in front of tire walls, steel and concrete barriers, dirt embankments, and other hard trackside objects that a crashed rider may hit. More information about the fund and how to donate is available at www.roadracingworld.com/actionfund.
ASBK Championship To Boost Southern Downs Tourism And Economy
Southern Downs Regional Council today announced a new partnership with the ASBK management team, which will ensure Round 5 of the mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship, presented by Motul (ASBK), is one of the biggest national events in the region following the devastating 2019 bushfires.
With the ASBK Championship on a knife edge across all classes, the Championship returns to Morgan Park Raceway between 20 and 22 August 2021.
The event is expected to garner huge local community support and see many race fans from around Queensland head to the region for three days of action-packed racing, as well as providing a significant tourism and economic boost to the many local businesses impacted by the 2019 bushfires, drought and COVID-19.
“ASBK competitors and fans have always loved coming to Morgan Park Raceway and we are very pleased to be able to do so again with the support of Southern Downs Regional Council,” Motorcycling Australia CEO, Peter Doyle said.
“The Southern Downs and Granite Belt regions are still rebuilding their communities and economies and we hope that with the hundreds of competitors, teams, partners, officials and race fans returning, we can do our part in boosting and showcasing the region’s tourism opportunities.
“We will have three days of jam-packed ASBK Championship racing action at Morgan Park Raceway with all five Championship classes titles still up for grabs, guaranteeing fans a spectacular racing festival.
“We are encouraging riders, teams, partners and fans to take advantage of the wonderful hospitality and tourism opportunities in the region and to book their accommodation early, catch the ASBK Championship at Morgan Park Raceway, and stay a little longer to enjoy what is a beautiful part of Australia.”
Southern Downs Mayor Vic Pennisi said that hosting the showcasing Championships would further highlight the region as a respected sporting destination, with significant economic benefits expected to flow onto the growing local tourism industry as it continues to recover from years of historical drought, the 2019 bush fires and the recent lockdowns associated with COVID-19 lockdowns.
“The region’s tourism and event industry continues to prove it is robust and can weather the many challenges that have been thrown our way in recent times,” Mayor Pennisi said.
“Warwick is known in the racing circles as the Horsepower Capital of Australia and we are particularly excited to welcome the ASBK Championship to the Southern Downs.
“The mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship, presented by Motul, is one of the highlights on the racing calendar and by hosting this event in our backyard, our region will clock-up additional kudos to attract other major events to the Southern Downs.
“The economic benefits of hosting a round of the Championship to our recovering region can’t be under-valued, and as motorsport enthusiasts flock to the region to watch world-class riders roar around Morgan Park Raceway, we relish the opportunity to showcase the Southern Downs as the ideal destination to live, work, play and stay.”
Keep up to date with the latest news on the mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship via www.asbk.com.au and following ASBK on Facebook and Instagram. You can also join the ASBK mailing list at www.asbk.com.au.
From a press release issued by Jeremy Cook’s publicist:
Stock 1000 competitor Jeremy Cook reinjures right collarbone, will miss inaugural MotoAmerica Superbikes at Minnesota
Maryland rider struggled through motorcycle problems, physical ailments at MotoAmerica Superbike Speedfest at Monterey
Jeremy Cook (81) will miss the next MotoAmerica round at Brainerd International Raceway due to reinjuring his right collarbone last weekend at the MotoAmerica Superbike Speedfest at Monterey.
After enduring one challenge after another at last weekend’s MotoAmerica round at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, BMW rider Jeremy Cook got more bad news from his doctors. The MotoAmerica Stock 1000 Class competitor found out that the screws in his surgically repaired right collarbone had come loose, which requires a second surgery to repair and rules him out of competing at the next MotoAmerica round.
Cook broke his right collarbone – among a slew of physical injuries – in a crash on the opening lap of the MotoAmerica Stock 1000 race at Road America on June 13. Though he returned to the Stock 1000 grid at the MotoAmerica Superbikes at the Ridge round on June 25-27, Cook’s collarbone could not withstand the strain that racing a 1000cc sportbike at Laguna Seca placed on it.
Screws pulled out of the plate in Jeremy Cook’s surgically repaired collarbone, seen here in an X-Ray.
Cook’s injuries and unbeknownst problems with his BMW S 1000 RR kept him from showing his usual racing form at the July 9-11 MotoAmerica Superbike Speedfest at Monterey. It was Cook’s first time competing at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, and his only experience riding the 2.2-mile circuit was a California Superbike School event in 2016. The team continued its partnership with the nonprofit Veterans Empowered Through Motorsports at the Laguna Seca round, as two active duty Marines from nearby Camp Pendleton served as volunteer members of the team.
Jeremy Cook Racing VETM volunteers Patrick Corey (left), Alex Panetta (center) and team mechanic Dakari Harris (right) work to get the team’s BMW S 1000 RR ready for the Stock 1000 race at Laguna Seca. Photo courtesy of Jeremy Cook Racing.
Cook ended the Stock 1000 Class’ only practice session of the weekend in 21st with a best lap time of 1:34.834. The team made a few changes to its setup for Friday’s Qualifying 1, and Cook ended that session 21st fastest as well with a 1:33.714. Cook felt a pop in his right arm during Q1 and had weakness in his right arm later in the day.
On Saturday, Cook’s BMW suffered an equipment failure after just three laps. His time from Friday qualifying allowed him to qualify 34th for Sunday’s Stock 1000 race. It was a challenge for Cook to just be on track for qualifying, as he had to be re-cleared by the MotoAmerica medical staff before he could participate in the Saturday session. The team later deduced that its BMW had stopped running due to a failed ECU and was able to source a new ECU from another BMW team. Cook and his team got the bike running again less than an hour before the Sunday Stock 1000 race.
Cook’s physical ailments and then-unknown damage to the bike curtailed his pace during the race. He began to lose strength in his right arm and began experiencing arm pump about halfway through the race, and a crack in the subframe and brake fade reduced Cook’s pace even more in the race’s latter stages. Cook had to settle for a 27th-place finish. After the race, the team discovered that its triple clamps were severely damaged, which had been causing Cook’s BMW to experience instability under braking.
Cook hopes that his injuries will be healed enough for him to compete at MotoAmerica’s round at Pittsburgh International Race Complex on Aug. 13-15. The team also is evaluating the situation with its current BMW S 1000 RR and is considering running a BMW M 1000 RR at the remainder of MotoAmerica rounds Cook competes in this year.
Jeremy Cook / No. 81
“It was an incredibly frustrating weekend at Laguna Seca with the physical and mechanical setbacks we endured. Though I didn’t have a lot of experience riding at Laguna Seca, I was hoping for a repeat of what the team and I did at The Ridge or better. Unfortunately, my BMW and I were still on the mend. I was really looking forward to competing at Brainerd International Raceway, but right now I need to stay focused on doing everything I can to get healthy again and minimize the number of rounds I miss this year. The team’s plan had been to use 2021 as a testing and development year with our BMW S 1000 RR package before upgrading to a M 1000 RR for the 2022 season. With all the gremlins we’ve been running into with our S 1000 RR since my big crash at Road America, now may be the right time to get in the saddle of a M 1000 RR a little early and get some races under our belt with it.”
From a press release issued By BMW Motorrad Motorsports:
Third place on the podium for the BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team in dramatic 12-hour race at Estoril.
Second race, second podium for the new #37 BMW M 1000 RR in the FIM Endurance World Championship 2021 (FIM EWC). Xavi Forés, Markus Reiterberger and Kenny Foray finish the 12 Hours of Estoril in third place. Magnificent recovery after fall in the opening stage of the race.
BMW Motorrad Motorsport’s Xavi Fores (37) leads F.C.C. TSR Honda France (5) early in the 12-Hours of Estoril. Photo courtesy BMW.
In the, at times, dramatic 12-hour race at Estoril (POR), Xavi Forés (ESP), Markus Reiterberger (GER) and Kenny Foray (FRA) secured third place on the podium as at the Le Mans (FRA) season opener. Once again they battled their way back up the field impressively after a fall in the opening stage forced the team right down the field to start with. The podium finish was a fitting present for Team Manager Werner Daemen’s 50th birthday.
Everything was going perfectly for the BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team to begin with. Starting from second on the grid, Forés took the lead after just a few minutes. The #37 M RR dropped back into second place briefly after about 50 minutes, but was soon back in front. Reiterberger then extended the lead but after almost two and a half hours of racing Foray skidded while in the lead and fell. He returned the #37 M RR to the pits and after a repair break lasting four and a half minutes it was back to the race. The BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team was temporarily in 20th place and trailing by four laps, but from there the only way was up.
The rest of the race was turbulent at times, with various race leaders dropping right down the field after falls or issues, but went without a hitch for Forés, Reiterberger and Foray and they made up place after place with fast lap times. Forés held the fastest lap time of the whole field for quite some time. After five hours of racing they had worked their way into the top ten. The trio was in sixth place after seven hours, and moved up into fourth place soon after, when two motorbikes in the leading pack collided. That was when the BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team set about reducing the margin to the top three.
In the final stage the race became something of a real sprint thriller. Ninety minutes before the end the team leading at that time developed a problem which put the podium within realistic reach of the #37 M RR. When all the teams had completed their final pit stops 30 minutes before the chequered flag, Reiterberger, the closing rider, was just ten seconds off the podium. He really went for it and set the team’s fastest race lap in the final stint (just six-thousandths of a second behind the fastest lap overall). Reiterberger closed the gap to two seconds – and just a few minutes before the end of the race, the rider in third place ended up in the gravel. That cleared the path to third place and the second podium finish in a row. After 416 laps, Reiterberger crossed the finish line in third place with the #37 M RR, just 0.976 seconds behind second place.
The privateer BMW squad Team LRP Poland finished in 16th place. The riders of the #90 BMW S 1000 RR were Nigel Walraven (NED), Stefan Kerschbaumer (AUT) and Thomas Gradinger (AUT).
Quotes after the ‘12 Hours of Estoril’.
Marc Bongers, BMW Motorrad Motorsport Director: “Congratulations to the whole team on another fantastic performance. It was a real thriller and history repeated itself. It was similar to Le Mans: leading shortly after the start, then a setback, then moving up the field to finish on the podium. We weren’t quite able to race at our pace in the first stint with the cool track temperatures. Things went really well from the second stint and our pace was definitely good enough to win. Unfortunately, Kenny fell and we dropped down to P20. Everyone did a magnificent job in the ensuing race to catch up. Our pace was really good down to the wire, but realistically we wouldn’t have done better than P4 or P5. But the other teams also experienced a few dramas, so the battle for P2 to P4 was really close in the end. We had to change the brakes, which was planned, but the final two stints from Xavi and Markus were incredibly strong so we really piled the pressure on the rider in third place. To end up finishing in P3 less than one second behind second place – after the fall at the beginning – we have to be pleased with that result. We saw that we had the pace required to win. Now we are in a very good starting position for the rest of the season, and our motto for the Bol d’Or in September is ‘full attack’. After all, we are still in with a chance of winning the world championship. We still have some work to do, but have a very good team, a very good bike, and the potential to become even better. I’d like to thank the team, they did a fantastic job, were great in the pit stops, and I’m happy that we could mark Werner Daemen’s 50th birthday by gifting him this podium.”
Werner Daemen, Team Manager BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team: “What a big day. It was a very exciting day, to be honest. I’m really enjoying my present now. It also was a very difficult day with the crash and some small issues but in the end we got the podium and I am really, really happy. I think the team again did a great job and except for the crash, everything was perfect and we showed again that we are among the top runners in the World Championship. I am sure that soon we can reach the highest step of the podium.”
Markus Reiterberger: “Xavi did a great opening stint. I took over being in the lead, was able to extend the gap again and hand over the bike in the lead, too. Unfortunately, Kenny then fell. Initially, that was a setback for us all but we kept our focus and always said that we try to get the best out of it. 12 hours is not as long as 24 hours but we still can achieve something. Xavi did really strong lap times and I then was able, especially in my last stint, to give my everything. The bike worked perfectly for me in cooler conditions. I really pushed and if the race had lasted one lap more, even second place would have been possible. But we made it to the podium and that is the main thing. We are still in the mix in the World Championship.”
Xavi Forés: “It was a very tough race. Honestly, after the crash we could not expect to finish on the podium. But we had a really good pace, the bike was working really well, so credit to all the team that worked amazingly to fix the bike in a way that I could get 1:39 times in all my stints. I am really happy with the performance we had all weekend. We have shown that we are really strong and as soon as we can complete the race with no mistakes or issues we will be on the top step. Thank you to the entire team and to Markus and Kenny; they did an amazing job. Now roll on Le Castellet in September.”
Kenny Foray: “First of all I want to apologise for my crash. It was a small mistake but it what it is. I am very disappointed about it because I think today it was possible to easily win. The bike was perfect, the tyre, too, and the riders were strong. Especially my team-mates were incredible. I love endurance for that; you never give up and that we could make it to the podium was fantastic. A big thank you to the team, thank you to Xavi and Markus, because it was an incredible effort today.”
More, from a press release issued by Yoshimura SERT Motul:
YOSHIMURA SERT MOTUL FIGHT BACK AT ESTORIL EWC
Yoshimura SERT Motul: GSX-R1000R – 17th – 4th in Championship.
The Yoshimura SERT Motul Suzuki team fought back adversity in today’s Endurance World Championship second round in Portugal to keep their 2021 title hopes alive.
GSX-R1000R riders Sylvain Guintoli, Gregg Black and Xavier Simeon dominated the 12 Hours of Estoril in rising temperatures but showed their team spirit to claw back after two unfortunate accidents.
The Yoshimura SERT Motul Suzuki team at Estoril. Photo courtesy Suzuki.
At the drop of the flag, Gregg Black was once again the fastest to get out of the starting grid to holeshot the race from his third position.
The Suzuki GSX-R1000R dominated its opponents but the rising heat of the track, which increased each hour, put more and more strain on the tyres grip. The track became tricky and many riders crashed, which was the case for Sylvain Guintoli, sliding-off just before the third hour of the race while in the lead. The whole technical team quickly repaired the damage caused by this crash and when the Suzuki #1 returned to the track, after more than six minutes in the box, it was 17th in the classification.
Black, Xavier Siméon and Guintoli then focused on ensuring their rise in the rankings and get a maximum of points; Guintoli setting the fastest lap of the race.
At mid-race, the GSX-R1000R had already made up part of his deficit on the race leader in sixth position. The podium was therefore once again in sight and the team kept a good race pace while remaining focused on their objective.
However, with five hours to go, Simeon, then fifth in the race, collided violently with a competitor.
But with all podium hopes gone, the team did not give up and after a long mechanical intervention in the pits, the Suzuki #1 was back on track in 24th position with the new objective of winning some precious points for the championship.
This perseverance and determination was rewarded with 17th place at the finish, which sees the Yoshimura SERT Motul team to leave the Portuguese circuit with seven additional points.
The next race of the season will take place on the Paul Ricard circuit in Castellet, in France for the 84th edition of the Bol d’Or on September 18 and 19th.
Damien Saulnier – Team Manager SERT: “This race has proven once again that in Endurance, nothing is ever decided in advance. We came here with points ahead, a lot of hope, a well-functioning team and three fast riders. At the start of the race, we showed our potential. And then, a few hours later the result is completely different. It’s racing, with its ups and downs. It’s up to us to reverse the trend at the Bol d’Or.”
Yohei Kato – Team Director: “Of course, it’s a disappointment for us to finish in this position. There were two crashes but we could also see the performance of our team. Our tyres were very good. We also managed the consumption of the bike well. Everything worked well and we showed that we have the potential to win here. The championship is still open and we will fight at the Bol d’Or to get back to the lead.”
Xavier Siméon: “I am obviously very disappointed. Once again, the team did a very good job, which allowed us to be very competitive in the race, in a position we didn’t expect. Then there were some race events that worked against us this time. I’m really sorry for the team who gave 200% as usual. It’s a shame to finish the race with this result. We had all the elements in hand to fight for victory.”
Sylvain Guintoli: “It was the opposite of Le Mans for us. We started the race very well and then my crash disrupted our progress. But after that, we started off really well and the podium was within our reach. But Xavier was really unlucky. It’s a racing event, not his mistake. The bike was badly damaged in that second crash and we lost a lot of time. Overall I think we showed determination and good pace in the second part of the race. The positions are getting closer in the championship. This will make for an interesting race at the Bol d’Or.”
Gregg Black: “In practice we saw that there was a small gap between us and the two leading bikes. But our team worked well until the last minute, so I was efficient right away in the race. It was surprising to see how much we had improved. The conditions were difficult for everyone, but everything worked very well for us. Maybe too well. We shouldn’t have played the game of our opponents and secured a good place. But when a victory is in your grasp, it’s very hard to let your chance go. This time we paid the consequences. It’s a lesson to remember.”
YOSHIMURA SERT MOTUL SUZUKI – HOUR-BY-HOUR STATS:
1: Yoshimura SERT Motul – 1st (35 laps)
2: Yoshimura SERT Motul – 1st (70 laps)
3: Yoshimura SERT Motul – 15th (101 laps)
4: Yoshimura SERT Motul – 10th (135 laps)
5: Yoshimura SERT Motul – 8th (170 laps)
6: Yoshimura SERT Motul – 6th (206 laps)
7: Yoshimura SERT Motul – 5th (241 laps)
8: Yoshimura SERT Motul – 24th (258 laps)
9: Yoshimura SERT Motul – 22nd (293 laps)
10: Yoshimura SERT Motul – 20th (328 laps)
11: Yoshimura SERT Motul – 17th (364 laps)
12: Yoshimura SERT Motul – 17th (400 laps)
More, from a press release issued by F.C.C. TSR Honda France:
F.C.C. TSR Honda France win the 12 Hours of Estoril
F.C.C. TSR Honda France took an incredible victory on Saturday winning the 12 Hours of Estoril, after completing 417 laps of the 4.182km Portuguese circuit aboard the Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP.
Honda’s endurance specialists, Josh Hook, Mike Di Meglio and Yuki Takahasi fought hard aboard the Fireblade SP, and with consistent race pace they took the win despite the hot conditions.
The winning team at Estoril included Mike De Meglio, Josh Hook, and Yuki Takahashi. Photo courtesy EWC.
F.C.C. TSR Honda France started the 12-hour race in fourth place with Di Meglio and after the first three hours of the race, the team were already sitting in third position. Thanks to consistent stints by the riders of the Honda #5, the Japanese team managed to move into second place by half race distance with consistently fast lap times.
Entering the last quarter of the race, they narrowed the gap with the leader of the race, putting pressure on Webike SRC Kawasaki France Trickstar, who with just an hour and a half left of the race, ran out of petrol and had to enter the pits.
In the last 50 minutes of the race, Hook did the final stint and took the Fireblade #5 to the victory, taking the checkered flag one lap in front of the Kawasaki team.
The win sees the team collect 46 valuable points, which moves them into second place overall in the 2021 FIM Endurance World Championship standings with a total of 82 points.
National Motos Honda on the #55 Fireblade also enjoyed a strong race. The trio of Guillaume Antiga, Stéphane Egea and Enzo Boulom, who started in 13th place on the grid (fourth in Superstock class), finished on the podium claiming second place.
After the fourth hour, the French team were leading the Superstock class, but by the middle of the race, they had lost laps due to the entrance of the safety car, and ran out of fuel, which demoted them to second place.
The third and next round of the FIM EWC Championship takes place on 18 September, with the legendary Bol d’Or at Circuit Paul Ricard in France.
Josh Hook 5, F.C.C. TSR Honda France: “Everybody did such a great job, we didn’t make any mistakes, we focused on our pace and just keep it throughout the race. For sure that we were lucky today but at the end we won, we knew our potential, and consistency paid off. Huge thanks to the team for the great work during the whole week.”
Mike Di Meglio 5, F.C.C. TSR Honda France:
“After a tough week, finishing in this way is a great reward. It’s all about endurance, you must never give up. I asked if I could attack in my last stint and that allowed us to put pressure on our opponents, some of whom made mistakes. We gave it all and we went all the way, it’s incredible.”
Yuki Takahashi 5, F.C.C. TSR Honda France:
“It was very hard for us since the beginning of the week but everyone has worked well to solve problems one step at a time. Today we gave it all and I am very happy for this victory.”
Race
Pos Team Constructor Pts
1 F.C.C. TSR Honda France Honda 46
2 WEBIKE SRC KAWASAKI France TRICKSTAR Kawasaki 39
3 BMW WORLD ENDURANCE TEAM BMW 36
4 VRD IGOL PIERRET EXPERIENCES Yamaha 29
5 MOTO AIN Yamaha 24
6 BMRT 3D MAXXESS NEVERS Kawasaki 0
7 ERC ENDURANCE-DUCATI Ducati 20
8 Team Bolliger Switzerland Kawasaki 19
9 National Motos Honda 0
10 YART – Yamaha Official Team EWC Yamaha 18
11 Wójcik Racing Team Yamaha 15
12 3ART BEST OF BIKE Yamaha 13
13 TEAM 18 SAPEURS POMPIERS CMS MOTOSTORE Yamaha 0
14 TEAM 33 LOUIT APRIL MOTO Kawasaki 0
15 SLIDER ENDURANCE Yamaha 0
16 Team LRP Poland BMW 10
17 YOSHIMURA SERT MOTUL Suzuki 12
18 FALCON RACING Yamaha 0
19 NO LIMITS MOTOR TEAM Suzuki 0
20 ENERGIE ENDURANCE 91 Kawasaki 0
21 PITLANE ENDURANCE 86 Yamaha 0
22 JMA RACING – ACTION BIKE Suzuki 0
23 TRT27 BAZAR 2 LA BECANE Suzuki 0
24 British Endurance Racing Team Suzuki 0
25 WOJCIK RACING TEAM 2 Yamaha 0
26 RAC 41 CHROMEBURNER Honda 0
27 PLAYERS Kawasaki 0
28 MOTOBOX KREMER RACING Yamaha 8
29 TATI TEAM BERINGER RACING Kawasaki –
30 AVIOBIKE Yamaha –
More, from a press release issued by FIM World Endurance Championship:
NATIONAL MOTOS WIN EWC DUNLOP INDEPENDENT TROPHY AT ESTORIL
National Motos continued their excellent performance in the EWC Dunlop Independent Trophy. Having finished in second place in the Superstock class in Portugal, the Honda team received the €4,000 prize awarded to the winner of the EWC Dunlop Independent Trophy and maintained their position at the top of the FIM Endurance World Cup standings. Team 18 Sapeurs-Pompiers CMS Motostore and Team 33 Louit April Moto were the other two teams on the EWC Dunlop Independent Trophy podium at Estoril.
In the saddle of the National Motos Honda, Stéphane Egéa, Guillaume Antiga and Enzo Boulom were in the running for the 1st place in Superstock, but were deprived of the win after running out of fuel. 9th overall at the finish and 2nd in the Superstock class, they won the EWC Dunlop Independent Trophy and the accompanying €4,000 purse.
Despite a crash early on, Team 18 Sapeurs-Pompiers CMS Motostore performed superbly in the latter stages of the race and climbed onto the 3rd step of the Superstock podium, winning 2nd place in the EWC Dunlop Independent Trophy with riders Hugo Clère, Johan Nigon and Matthieu Lussiana. The Yamaha-mounted independent team received a €3,000 EWC Dunlop Independent Trophy prize at the 12 Hours of Estoril.
Team 33 Louit April Moto’s Kawasaki was the 4th Superstock past the finish line, one lap behind the Sapeurs-Pompiers. Christian Gamarino, Corentin Perolari and Luca Vitali got off to a good start but had a difficult race in the heat at Estoril. Their determination enabled them to claim the €2,700 prize awarded to the 3rd-place winner of the EWC Dunlop Independent Trophy at Estoril.
Seven other independent teams using Dunlop tyres were awarded prizes at the 12 Hours of Estoril. They received amounts ranging from €2,300 down to €500 for the team ranked 10th in the EWC Dunlop Independent Trophy.
Renewed for the 6th successive season by FIM EWC promoter Eurosport Events, the organizers of each race in the FIM Endurance World Championship and tyre manufacturer Dunlop, the EWC Dunlop Independent Trophy gives backing to privateer teams using Dunlop tyres who do not receive direct support from a constructor. €120,000 will be awarded this season to support teams participating in the EWC Dunlop Independent Trophy.
The Crossroads will feature the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Ride-in Bike Show presented by Old Bike Barn, vendors and more
PICKERINGTON, Ohio — The Old Bike Barn Crossroads will return to 2021 AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days on July 23-25 at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in Lexington, Ohio.
One of the central hubs of activity at AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days, the Old Bike Barn Crossroads will feature the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Ride-in Bike Show presented by Old Bike Barn, Hall of Fame tent complete with On Any Sunday bikes and memorabilia, vendors, AMA tent selling On Any Sunday and AMA merchandise and more.
“We here at Old Bike Barn look forward to AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days every year,” said Old Bike Barn founder and chief technology officer Bear Haughton. “This is easily our favorite event to be a part of. There is something about the atmosphere and energy there that you just don’t get anywhere else.”
“The blending of multiple generations with the same passion for vintage motorcycles has us smiling all weekend,” Haughton added. “We look forward to seeing all you vintage motorcycle fanatics this year!”
Old Bike Barn (https://www.oldbikebarn.com) is a mail-order parts and accessories business based in Columbus, Ohio. The company, started in 2001, offers a selection of custom and maintenance parts for vintage American and Japanese street bikes, café racers, choppers, bobbers and V-twins.
“Old Bike Barn has been a part of AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days for well over a decade,” said AMA Editorial Director Mitch Boehm. “The Old Bike Barn crossroads and the legendary AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Bike Show presented by Old Bike Barn always brings in a crowd to see the epic vintage motorcycles that show up. We’re excited to welcome Old Bike Barn back to AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days, and and we always look forward to seeing what classic bikes they bring along to display.”
The 2021 AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days will feature an On Any Sunday theme, celebrating 50 years of the moto documentary, with David Aldana — one of the film’s legendary stars — serving as Grand Marshal. There will also be a special outdoor screening of the beloved film on Friday, July 23.
Along with all the action at the Old Bike Barn Crossroads, there will be plenty of racing action for racers and fans. There will be vintage competition in road racing, motocross, hare scrambles and trials at Mid-Ohio, and flat track racing at the nearby Ashland County Fairgrounds. Riders as young as age 4 are permitted to compete in motocross, while those 12 and up can ride in trials, dirt track and hare-scrambles events. Learn more and register today.
Tickets are still available at midohio.com or can be purchased at the gate on the days of the event for an additional $10.
About the American Motorcyclist Association
Founded in 1924, the AMA is a not-for-profit member-based association whose mission is to promote the motorcycle lifestyle and protect the future of motorcycling. As the world’s largest motorcycling rights and event sanctioning organization, the AMA advocates for riders’ interests at all levels of government and sanctions thousands of competition and recreational events every year. The AMA also provides money-saving discounts on products and services for its members. Through the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio, the AMA honors the heroes and heritage of motorcycling. For more information, visit americanmotorcyclist.com.
Not a member? Join the AMA today: americanmotorcyclist.com.
The start of the Grand Prix of Thailand in 2019. Photo courtesy of Dorna.
2021 Thai GP cancelled
Wednesday, 21 July 2021
The FIM, IRTA and Dorna Sports regret to announce the cancellation of the OR Thailand Grand Prix, which was set to take place at Chang International Circuit from the 15th to the 17th of October. Despite the best efforts of all parties involved, the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic and resulting restrictions have obliged the cancellation of the event.
The FIM MotoGP™ World Championship looks forward to returning to race in front of the incredibly passionate Buriram crowd in 2022.
A replacement event is currently under consideration and any updates regarding a possible substitute will be published as soon as available.
Bennetts British Superbike Championship welcomes return of fans to crown Monster Energy King of Brands
The Bennetts British Superbike Championship returns to Brands Hatch this weekend and, following a 644-day wait from the 2019 season finale, fans will be welcomed back to the Kent venue in unrestricted numbers to witness the incredible spectacle of the country’s leading motorsport series.
There have already been three different race winners, plus a further four podium finishers, from the opening six races of this season setting the stage for another close contest this summer weekend. There is added glory up for grabs too, as riders will fight for the Monster Energy King of Brands Trophy.
The VisionTrack Ducati team lead the standings ahead of this weekend’s triple-header after Christian Iddon moved to the top of the standings at Knockhill. His victory last time out puts him six points clear of fierce rival and Oulton Park treble winner Jason O’Halloran.
O’Halloran made one mistake at Knockhill with a crash in race two forcing him to relinquish the series lead to Iddon. The McAMS Yamaha rider was victorious at Brands Hatch last October on his way to second in the title fight, and he will be aiming to regain the position with another strong weekend.
The most successful current Bennetts BSB rider at Brands Hatch is reigning champion Josh Brookes, equal on 19 race victories with Shane Byrne on the Grand Prix circuit. The VisionTrack Ducati rider has had an uncharacteristic start to this title defence, with a best result of sixth place and is currently 11th in the standings.
However, the Australian’s previous record at Brands Hatch is unrivalled by his opponents. The double champion has stood on the podium at the iconic circuit every year he’s competed, aside from 2014, since 2011. Indeed, Brooks has won seven of the last eight races on the Brands Hatch Grand Prix circuit.
Danny Buchan launched into third overall at Knockhill with an impressive double win for the SYNETIQ BMW team; he holds a slight edge over the second McAMS Yamaha rider, Tarran Mackenzie ahead of the three races this weekend.
Rookie Rory Skinner delivered a sensational performance at Knockhill, celebrating a podium finish in only his fifth Bennetts BSB race, before immediately following it up with another second place in the final race of the weekend.
A single point separates Skinner and the FS-3 Kawasaki team from Tommy Bridewell. The Oxford Products Racing Ducati team raced to the rostrum at the season opener and will be hoping to add to their Podium Points tally this weekend.
Peter Hickman and the FHO Racing BMW team debuted with a podium finish at Oulton Park, and after narrowly missing out at Knockhill, will be pushing to score BMW’s first win on the Grand Prix circuit since Michael Laverty in 2015. The team are expected to return to the full line-up at Brands Hatch, with Xavi Forés targeting his debut races in 2021 following injury sustained at Oulton Park.
Lee Jackson currently holds eighth place in the standings, and the FS-3 Kawasaki rider will be pushing to move further up the order this weekend with just a single point separating him from Ryan Vickers, who is just outside the all-important top eight for the RAF Regular & Reserve Kawasaki team.
Rich Energy OMG Racing BMW’s Bradley Ray and Kyle Ryde, plus Honda Racing’s Glenn Irwin and Buildbase Suzuki pairing Gino Rea and Danny Kent will all be pushing to claw their way up the order, as they currently sit outside the top eight positions, which will be critical to their title hopes ahead of the end of year Showdown.
Bennetts British Superbike Championship standings:
Christian Iddon (VisionTrack Ducati) 111
Jason O’Halloran (McAMS Yamaha) 105
Danny Buchan (SYNETIQ BMW) 91
Tarran Mackenzie (McAMS Yamaha) 76
Rory Skinner (FS-3 Kawasaki) 61
Tommy Bridewell (Oxford Products Racing Ducati) 60
Peter Hickman (FHO Racing BMW) 57
Lee Jackson (FS-3 Kawasaki) 46
For more information on the Bennetts British Superbike Championship visit www.britishsuperbike.com
Christian Iddon – VisionTrack Ducati
Championship leader
“It is a cool feeling to be leading the championship and it was great to win at Knockhill. In all honestly and I know I say it a lot, I always approach every event the same – I just go out and give my best.
“I know that the VisionTrack Ducati worked well at Brands Hatch last year and I believe that our set-up has improved since then. I know from what Josh does there, that the bike is super competitive at Brands Hatch. I also know that other riders have very competitive bikes there, like the Yam, and I expect a really strong weekend from Jason and probably more from Taz.
“But it is never easy – you never know what will happen until you get there and can never discount anyone, so I certainly won’t be doing any of that and there is no room for complacency. It can be only a moment in time that you’re in that position, so I am planning to keep us there for as long as possible.”
Honda will hold demo rides during AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days. Photo courtesy AMA.
Royal Enfield, Honda to Offer Demo Rides at 2021 AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days Presented By Royal Enfield
Event takes place July 23-25 in Lexington, Ohio
PICKERINGTON, Ohio — Motorcyclists in the market for a new bike can experience some of the hottest models available from Royal Enfield and American Honda at 2021 AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days, presented by Royal Enfield, July 23-25 at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in Lexington, Ohio.
Royal Enfield Meteor 350 models like these will be included in demo rides at AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days.
Both companies will be on location with demo fleets. Licensed motorcyclists are invited to sign up for test rides during the event.
“AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days might celebrate the long history of motorcycling in America, but our attendees continue to be voracious consumers of new bikes,” said AMA Director of Industry Relations and Business Memberships Steve Gotoski. “Royal Enfield and American Honda are selling some of the most unique and cutting-edge production motorcycles today, with many models evoking motorcycling’s heritage. We’re thrilled to have both companies on location this July 23-25.”
A 2021-model Royal Enfield Himalayan. Photo courtesy Royal Enfield North America.
Royal Enfield intends to have the new Meteor 350, Himalayan and additional 650cc models available for riders to try.
A Royal Enfield Continental GT 650. Photo courtesy Royal Enfield North America.
Honda is bringing a number of new bikes to the event, including Gold Wing standard and DCT clutch models and Rebel 1100 standard and DCT clutch models. In addition, they will have NC750X, CBR300R and Rebel 500 models on hand.
A Honda NC750X. Photo courtesy of American Honda.A 2021 Honda Rebel 1100 DCT. Photo courtesy American Honda.
A 2021 Honda Rebel 1100. Photo courtesy American Honda.
Attendees of AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days, presented by Royal Enfield, should plan to visit each brand’s display early each day to see the demo schedules and book a ride. More information is available at vintagemotorcycledays.com.
A valid motorcycle endorsement is required. Safety rules will be shared at sign up. Be prepared with a helmet, gloves, long sleeves, long pants and over-the-ankle boots.
The 2021 AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days will feature an On Any Sunday theme, celebrating 50 years of Bruce Brown’s epic moto documentary, with AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famer David Aldana — one of the film’s legendary stars — serving as Grand Marshal. There will also be a special outdoor screening of the beloved film on Friday, July 23.
Racers and fans will appreciate all the racing action, from road racing and motocross to cross-country, dirt track and trials — and much of it with an AMA Grand Championship flavor. Riders as young as age 4 are permitted to compete in motocross, while those 12 and up can ride in trials, dirt track and hare-scrambles events. There’s also exhibition pit-bike racing on Saturday. Learn more and register today.
The event will also include all the vintage-oriented happenings that classic-bike fans love, including Hall of Fame activities, Wall of Death and vintage bike shows. Tickets are still available at midohio.com or can be purchased at the gate on the days of the event for an additional $10.
About the American Motorcyclist Association
Founded in 1924, the AMA is a not-for-profit member-based association whose mission is to promote the motorcycle lifestyle and protect the future of motorcycling. As the world’s largest motorcycling rights and event sanctioning organization, the AMA advocates for riders’ interests at all levels of government and sanctions thousands of competition and recreational events every year. The AMA also provides money-saving discounts on products and services for its members. Through the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio, the AMA honors the heroes and heritage of motorcycling. For more information, visit americanmotorcyclist.com.
Ducati Multistrada V4 S motorcycles. Photo courtesy Ducati.
Ducati Multistrada V4 S is officially radar-certified in North America
Multistrada V4 S radar technology is a revolutionary new system incorporated for the first time on a production motorcycle
Adaptive Cruise Control and Blind Spot Detection provides enhanced levels of rider comfort and convenience
Sunnyvale, Calif. – The Ducati Multistrada V4 S is now radar-certified in North America, allowing riders the capability to enjoy the revolutionary new radar system for the first time on a production motorcycle. This certification will enable North American customers to use Adaptive Cruise Control and Blind Spot Detection systems.
With the radar technology hardware now having been certified, current model-year 2021 Multistrada V4 S owners may have radar software uploaded and calibrated by their dealerships. All 2021 Multistrada V4 S models are equipped with the radar hardware as standard providing the customer the choice to upgrade and activate the radar technology.
“Ducati is proud to be the first to deliver radar on a motorcycle, and the North American release of this technology takes Ducati further into the future of motorcycling,” said Jason Chinnock, Chief Executive Officer of Ducati North America. “We have consistently led the development of emerging technologies, and now with the use of radar we can greatly enhance the convenience and comfort for our riders. The Multistrada V4 S is the perfect application for radar technology, as one of the strengths of this motorcycle is to tackle cross-country adventures. Having the benefits of Adaptive Cruise Control and Blind Sport Detection at the rider’s fingertips will make these journeys even more enjoyable.”
The Multistrada V4 S’s radar technology is an advanced rider aid system that manages two functions: Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and Blind Spot Detection (BSD). The ACC is perfectly integrated into the bike, which by means of controlled braking and acceleration automatically maintains the distance (selectable on four levels) from other vehicles. The ACC system allows for more comfortable riding, especially on long highway journeys. The Blind Spot Detection (BSD) technology, housed under the taillight, can detect and report vehicles approaching in the so-called blind spot, namely the area not visible either directly by the rider or through the rear-view mirror. The BSD system monitors traffic behind the rider and displays a rider warning thanks to the LEDs positioned in the rear-view mirrors. If the user activates the direction indicator expressing the intention to change lane, the BSD flashes the LED signalling a potentially dangerous condition.
The motorcycle is currently available in dealerships throughout North America.
United States pricing for the Multistrada V4 begins at an MSRP of $19,995, with the Multistrada V4 S starting at $24,095 and Multistrada V4 S Sport at $26,095. For Canada, the Multistrada V4 starts at an MSRP of $22,395 CAD and an MSRP of $26,745 CAD for the Multistrada V4 S, with the Multistrada V4 S Sport starting at a Canadian MSRP of $28,795 CAD.
Additional information can be found on Ducati-MultistradaV4.com.
Brembo racing brake caliper on a MotoAmerica Superbike. Photo by Keith Perry.
BREMBO OPENS THE FIRST CENTER OF EXCELLENCE IN SILICON VALLEY
The “Brembo Inspiration Lab” will focus on software development, data science and artificial intelligence
Stezzano (BG), Italy, (July 19 2021) – Brembo, a global leader in the development and production of brake systems, announces the opening of its first center of excellence, in California’s Silicon Valley (USA).
The “Brembo Inspiration Lab” will be an innovation lab and it will be focused on strengthening the Company’s expertise in software development, data science and artificial intelligence.
Brembo brakes on a World Superbike. Photo courtesy Brembo North America.
The opening of Brembo’s first center of excellence is a step forward in the path to become a trusted Solution Provider and accelerates the digitalization of the company, one of the key objectives of the strategic vision, Turning Energy into Inspiration, announced by Daniele Schillaci, Brembo’s Chief Executive Officer, in September 2020.
“We are very pleased to open Brembo’s first center of excellence in Silicon Valley. We are entering and investing in this world-renowned location for high technology and innovation with the clear and ambitious goal of addressing the unprecedented challenges impacting the automotive sector” said Daniele Schillaci, Brembo’s Chief Executive Officer. “We are in an era of data science and the application of artificial intelligence, which offers us a great opportunity to build our future and strengthen our technological leadership. With the Brembo Inspiration Lab we accept the challenge to increase the company’s digital culture and to bring ‘Made in Brembo’ innovation even closer to our partners.”
The Brembo Inspiration Lab is expected to open in the fourth quarter of 2021. It will welcome talent from various industries to benefit the development of Brembo’s future braking solutions.
A set of Brembo racing calipers. Photo courtesy Brembo North America.
With the opening of the new center, Brembo expands its international presence and continues to grow in North America, where it has been present for over 30 years. It maintains manufacturing hubs in Michigan, New Jersey and Monterrey, Mexico. Its North American headquarters and R&D center is located in Plymouth, Michigan. The new center of excellence will also be a point of reference for the technological and commercial development of Brembo’s relationships with customers in the Silicon Valley .
About Brembo SpA
Brembo SpA is the world leader and acknowledged innovator of brake technology for automotive vehicles. Brembo supplies high performance brake systems for the most important manufacturers of cars, commercial vehicles and motorbikes worldwide, as well as clutches and other components for racing. Brembo is also a leader in the racing sector and has won more than 500 championships. Today the company operates in 15 countries on 3 continents, with 26 production and business sites, and a pool of over 11,000 employees, about 10% of whom are engineers and product specialists active in the R&D. 2020 turnover is € 2,208.6 million (12.31.2020). Brembo is the owner of the Brembo, Breco, AP, Bybre, and Marchesini, SBS Friction brands and operates through the AP Racing brand.
Stefano Mesa (37) passes sections of Airfence soft barriers deployed at NCBike thanks to the fund-raising efforts of N2 and the not-for-profit Roadracing World Action Fund (RWAF). Photo by Apex Pro Photography.
2021 N2 Raises over $20,000 for Road Racing World Action Fund Airfence!
The 2021 N2 auction benefiting the Roadracing World Action Fund was a massive success, raising $20,038 toward purchasing Airfence soft barriers for events all over the US. The 2021 event is the seventh N2 benefit for the Roadracing World Action Fund and one of the most successful. N2 Track Days’ total contributions to the Roadracing World Action Fund now exceed over $120,000. None of this would have been possible without generous donations from some amazing companies in the industry and the generosity from N2 Members.
The 2021 Auction was held at PittRace International Race Complex with over 200 people in attendance. Participants were able to bid on items in person and online. The online portion of the auction consisted of 83 bidders, with 316 bids, on 45 items, from 18 different states. In addition to the auction, the event raised $5,215 through a raffle, from private donors, and from direct contributions from N2 Track Days.
“This event is very special to us, and we are consistently floored by the generosity of our community and our partners” said N2 COO Jim Curtis. “The companies that donated this year went over and beyond with some amazing contributions. Personally, and from the organization, I would like to say thank you for the generous contribution to this worthy cause.”
Thanks to the following companies for donating items to the auction:
Apex Pro Photography
Armour Bodies/ Woodcraft CFM
Barnes Brothers Motorcycles
Bobblehead Moto
Boxo (RGB Racing)
Chicken Hawk Racing
Dainese
Dauntless
Dunlop / TTMotoGear
Highside Photo
Innovative Motorsports
Karns Performance
KWS Motorsports
MotoAmerica
N2 Track Days
NJ MiniGP
Photos by Marty
Pit Bull
Pit Lane Moto
Pittsburgh International Raceway
REB Graphics
Rise Moto
Scott Powersports
Tech Spec
VNM Sport
Yamaha Champions Riding School
Yamaha Motor USA
Planning for the 2022 N2 auction benefiting the Roadracing World Action Fund has already begun with plans to expand both the size and the reach of the auction. If your company or race team would like to be a part of this amazing event, please reach out to Chip Spalding at [email protected]
About N2 Track Days:
N2 provides a structured riding environment for sport-bike riders of all levels promoting motorcycle safety through instruction on a closed course racetrack. Our instructors and coaching staff are comprised of club-racers, pro racers, and experienced track day riders who are articulate and passionate about all aspects of this sport. N2 strives to provide an enjoyable riding experience in an environment where members can hone their skills and inspire confidence in their riding ability. Riding with N2 means you and your sportbike gain access to a structured environment without the hazards, limitations, distractions, and obstacles that you’ll find on the street. For Information: N2 Track Days – www.N2td.org
About The Roadracing World Action Fund:
The Roadracing World Action Fund is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt charitable organization with a mission to promote motorcycle racing safety education, and in particular, to encourage and facilitate the use of soft barriers at motorcycle road racing, track day, and dirt track events. The pre-inflated soft barriers, designed to help absorb the force of impact, are positioned in front of tire walls, steel and concrete barriers, dirt embankments, and other hard trackside objects that a crashed rider may hit. More information about the fund and how to donate is available at www.roadracingworld.com/actionfund.
Australian Superbike front-runners Mike Jones (46), Troy Herfoss (1), Cru Halliday (65), Bryan Staring (behind Halliday), Daniel Falzon (25), and Josh Waters (behind Falzon). Photo by Andrew Gosling/TBG Sport, courtesy of Motorcycling Australia.
ASBK Championship To Boost Southern Downs Tourism And Economy
Southern Downs Regional Council today announced a new partnership with the ASBK management team, which will ensure Round 5 of the mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship, presented by Motul (ASBK), is one of the biggest national events in the region following the devastating 2019 bushfires.
With the ASBK Championship on a knife edge across all classes, the Championship returns to Morgan Park Raceway between 20 and 22 August 2021.
The event is expected to garner huge local community support and see many race fans from around Queensland head to the region for three days of action-packed racing, as well as providing a significant tourism and economic boost to the many local businesses impacted by the 2019 bushfires, drought and COVID-19.
“ASBK competitors and fans have always loved coming to Morgan Park Raceway and we are very pleased to be able to do so again with the support of Southern Downs Regional Council,” Motorcycling Australia CEO, Peter Doyle said.
“The Southern Downs and Granite Belt regions are still rebuilding their communities and economies and we hope that with the hundreds of competitors, teams, partners, officials and race fans returning, we can do our part in boosting and showcasing the region’s tourism opportunities.
“We will have three days of jam-packed ASBK Championship racing action at Morgan Park Raceway with all five Championship classes titles still up for grabs, guaranteeing fans a spectacular racing festival.
“We are encouraging riders, teams, partners and fans to take advantage of the wonderful hospitality and tourism opportunities in the region and to book their accommodation early, catch the ASBK Championship at Morgan Park Raceway, and stay a little longer to enjoy what is a beautiful part of Australia.”
Southern Downs Mayor Vic Pennisi said that hosting the showcasing Championships would further highlight the region as a respected sporting destination, with significant economic benefits expected to flow onto the growing local tourism industry as it continues to recover from years of historical drought, the 2019 bush fires and the recent lockdowns associated with COVID-19 lockdowns.
“The region’s tourism and event industry continues to prove it is robust and can weather the many challenges that have been thrown our way in recent times,” Mayor Pennisi said.
“Warwick is known in the racing circles as the Horsepower Capital of Australia and we are particularly excited to welcome the ASBK Championship to the Southern Downs.
“The mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship, presented by Motul, is one of the highlights on the racing calendar and by hosting this event in our backyard, our region will clock-up additional kudos to attract other major events to the Southern Downs.
“The economic benefits of hosting a round of the Championship to our recovering region can’t be under-valued, and as motorsport enthusiasts flock to the region to watch world-class riders roar around Morgan Park Raceway, we relish the opportunity to showcase the Southern Downs as the ideal destination to live, work, play and stay.”
Keep up to date with the latest news on the mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship via www.asbk.com.au and following ASBK on Facebook and Instagram. You can also join the ASBK mailing list at www.asbk.com.au.
Jeremy Cook in action at Laguna Seca. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
From a press release issued by Jeremy Cook’s publicist:
Stock 1000 competitor Jeremy Cook reinjures right collarbone, will miss inaugural MotoAmerica Superbikes at Minnesota
Maryland rider struggled through motorcycle problems, physical ailments at MotoAmerica Superbike Speedfest at Monterey
Jeremy Cook (81) will miss the next MotoAmerica round at Brainerd International Raceway due to reinjuring his right collarbone last weekend at the MotoAmerica Superbike Speedfest at Monterey.
After enduring one challenge after another at last weekend’s MotoAmerica round at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, BMW rider Jeremy Cook got more bad news from his doctors. The MotoAmerica Stock 1000 Class competitor found out that the screws in his surgically repaired right collarbone had come loose, which requires a second surgery to repair and rules him out of competing at the next MotoAmerica round.
Cook broke his right collarbone – among a slew of physical injuries – in a crash on the opening lap of the MotoAmerica Stock 1000 race at Road America on June 13. Though he returned to the Stock 1000 grid at the MotoAmerica Superbikes at the Ridge round on June 25-27, Cook’s collarbone could not withstand the strain that racing a 1000cc sportbike at Laguna Seca placed on it.
Screws pulled out of the plate in Jeremy Cook’s surgically repaired collarbone, seen here in an X-Ray.
Cook’s injuries and unbeknownst problems with his BMW S 1000 RR kept him from showing his usual racing form at the July 9-11 MotoAmerica Superbike Speedfest at Monterey. It was Cook’s first time competing at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, and his only experience riding the 2.2-mile circuit was a California Superbike School event in 2016. The team continued its partnership with the nonprofit Veterans Empowered Through Motorsports at the Laguna Seca round, as two active duty Marines from nearby Camp Pendleton served as volunteer members of the team.
Jeremy Cook Racing VETM volunteers Patrick Corey (left), Alex Panetta (center) and team mechanic Dakari Harris (right) work to get the team’s BMW S 1000 RR ready for the Stock 1000 race at Laguna Seca. Photo courtesy of Jeremy Cook Racing.
Cook ended the Stock 1000 Class’ only practice session of the weekend in 21st with a best lap time of 1:34.834. The team made a few changes to its setup for Friday’s Qualifying 1, and Cook ended that session 21st fastest as well with a 1:33.714. Cook felt a pop in his right arm during Q1 and had weakness in his right arm later in the day.
On Saturday, Cook’s BMW suffered an equipment failure after just three laps. His time from Friday qualifying allowed him to qualify 34th for Sunday’s Stock 1000 race. It was a challenge for Cook to just be on track for qualifying, as he had to be re-cleared by the MotoAmerica medical staff before he could participate in the Saturday session. The team later deduced that its BMW had stopped running due to a failed ECU and was able to source a new ECU from another BMW team. Cook and his team got the bike running again less than an hour before the Sunday Stock 1000 race.
Cook’s physical ailments and then-unknown damage to the bike curtailed his pace during the race. He began to lose strength in his right arm and began experiencing arm pump about halfway through the race, and a crack in the subframe and brake fade reduced Cook’s pace even more in the race’s latter stages. Cook had to settle for a 27th-place finish. After the race, the team discovered that its triple clamps were severely damaged, which had been causing Cook’s BMW to experience instability under braking.
Cook hopes that his injuries will be healed enough for him to compete at MotoAmerica’s round at Pittsburgh International Race Complex on Aug. 13-15. The team also is evaluating the situation with its current BMW S 1000 RR and is considering running a BMW M 1000 RR at the remainder of MotoAmerica rounds Cook competes in this year.
Jeremy Cook / No. 81
“It was an incredibly frustrating weekend at Laguna Seca with the physical and mechanical setbacks we endured. Though I didn’t have a lot of experience riding at Laguna Seca, I was hoping for a repeat of what the team and I did at The Ridge or better. Unfortunately, my BMW and I were still on the mend. I was really looking forward to competing at Brainerd International Raceway, but right now I need to stay focused on doing everything I can to get healthy again and minimize the number of rounds I miss this year. The team’s plan had been to use 2021 as a testing and development year with our BMW S 1000 RR package before upgrading to a M 1000 RR for the 2022 season. With all the gremlins we’ve been running into with our S 1000 RR since my big crash at Road America, now may be the right time to get in the saddle of a M 1000 RR a little early and get some races under our belt with it.”
Start of the Estoril 12-Hours, with Yoshimura SERT Motul Suzuki leading F.C.C.TSR Honda France (5) and BMW Motorrad Motorsports (37). Photo courtesy Suzuki.
From a press release issued By BMW Motorrad Motorsports:
Third place on the podium for the BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team in dramatic 12-hour race at Estoril.
Second race, second podium for the new #37 BMW M 1000 RR in the FIM Endurance World Championship 2021 (FIM EWC). Xavi Forés, Markus Reiterberger and Kenny Foray finish the 12 Hours of Estoril in third place. Magnificent recovery after fall in the opening stage of the race.
BMW Motorrad Motorsport’s Xavi Fores (37) leads F.C.C. TSR Honda France (5) early in the 12-Hours of Estoril. Photo courtesy BMW.
In the, at times, dramatic 12-hour race at Estoril (POR), Xavi Forés (ESP), Markus Reiterberger (GER) and Kenny Foray (FRA) secured third place on the podium as at the Le Mans (FRA) season opener. Once again they battled their way back up the field impressively after a fall in the opening stage forced the team right down the field to start with. The podium finish was a fitting present for Team Manager Werner Daemen’s 50th birthday.
Everything was going perfectly for the BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team to begin with. Starting from second on the grid, Forés took the lead after just a few minutes. The #37 M RR dropped back into second place briefly after about 50 minutes, but was soon back in front. Reiterberger then extended the lead but after almost two and a half hours of racing Foray skidded while in the lead and fell. He returned the #37 M RR to the pits and after a repair break lasting four and a half minutes it was back to the race. The BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team was temporarily in 20th place and trailing by four laps, but from there the only way was up.
The rest of the race was turbulent at times, with various race leaders dropping right down the field after falls or issues, but went without a hitch for Forés, Reiterberger and Foray and they made up place after place with fast lap times. Forés held the fastest lap time of the whole field for quite some time. After five hours of racing they had worked their way into the top ten. The trio was in sixth place after seven hours, and moved up into fourth place soon after, when two motorbikes in the leading pack collided. That was when the BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team set about reducing the margin to the top three.
In the final stage the race became something of a real sprint thriller. Ninety minutes before the end the team leading at that time developed a problem which put the podium within realistic reach of the #37 M RR. When all the teams had completed their final pit stops 30 minutes before the chequered flag, Reiterberger, the closing rider, was just ten seconds off the podium. He really went for it and set the team’s fastest race lap in the final stint (just six-thousandths of a second behind the fastest lap overall). Reiterberger closed the gap to two seconds – and just a few minutes before the end of the race, the rider in third place ended up in the gravel. That cleared the path to third place and the second podium finish in a row. After 416 laps, Reiterberger crossed the finish line in third place with the #37 M RR, just 0.976 seconds behind second place.
The privateer BMW squad Team LRP Poland finished in 16th place. The riders of the #90 BMW S 1000 RR were Nigel Walraven (NED), Stefan Kerschbaumer (AUT) and Thomas Gradinger (AUT).
Quotes after the ‘12 Hours of Estoril’.
Marc Bongers, BMW Motorrad Motorsport Director: “Congratulations to the whole team on another fantastic performance. It was a real thriller and history repeated itself. It was similar to Le Mans: leading shortly after the start, then a setback, then moving up the field to finish on the podium. We weren’t quite able to race at our pace in the first stint with the cool track temperatures. Things went really well from the second stint and our pace was definitely good enough to win. Unfortunately, Kenny fell and we dropped down to P20. Everyone did a magnificent job in the ensuing race to catch up. Our pace was really good down to the wire, but realistically we wouldn’t have done better than P4 or P5. But the other teams also experienced a few dramas, so the battle for P2 to P4 was really close in the end. We had to change the brakes, which was planned, but the final two stints from Xavi and Markus were incredibly strong so we really piled the pressure on the rider in third place. To end up finishing in P3 less than one second behind second place – after the fall at the beginning – we have to be pleased with that result. We saw that we had the pace required to win. Now we are in a very good starting position for the rest of the season, and our motto for the Bol d’Or in September is ‘full attack’. After all, we are still in with a chance of winning the world championship. We still have some work to do, but have a very good team, a very good bike, and the potential to become even better. I’d like to thank the team, they did a fantastic job, were great in the pit stops, and I’m happy that we could mark Werner Daemen’s 50th birthday by gifting him this podium.”
Werner Daemen, Team Manager BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team: “What a big day. It was a very exciting day, to be honest. I’m really enjoying my present now. It also was a very difficult day with the crash and some small issues but in the end we got the podium and I am really, really happy. I think the team again did a great job and except for the crash, everything was perfect and we showed again that we are among the top runners in the World Championship. I am sure that soon we can reach the highest step of the podium.”
Markus Reiterberger: “Xavi did a great opening stint. I took over being in the lead, was able to extend the gap again and hand over the bike in the lead, too. Unfortunately, Kenny then fell. Initially, that was a setback for us all but we kept our focus and always said that we try to get the best out of it. 12 hours is not as long as 24 hours but we still can achieve something. Xavi did really strong lap times and I then was able, especially in my last stint, to give my everything. The bike worked perfectly for me in cooler conditions. I really pushed and if the race had lasted one lap more, even second place would have been possible. But we made it to the podium and that is the main thing. We are still in the mix in the World Championship.”
Xavi Forés: “It was a very tough race. Honestly, after the crash we could not expect to finish on the podium. But we had a really good pace, the bike was working really well, so credit to all the team that worked amazingly to fix the bike in a way that I could get 1:39 times in all my stints. I am really happy with the performance we had all weekend. We have shown that we are really strong and as soon as we can complete the race with no mistakes or issues we will be on the top step. Thank you to the entire team and to Markus and Kenny; they did an amazing job. Now roll on Le Castellet in September.”
Kenny Foray: “First of all I want to apologise for my crash. It was a small mistake but it what it is. I am very disappointed about it because I think today it was possible to easily win. The bike was perfect, the tyre, too, and the riders were strong. Especially my team-mates were incredible. I love endurance for that; you never give up and that we could make it to the podium was fantastic. A big thank you to the team, thank you to Xavi and Markus, because it was an incredible effort today.”
More, from a press release issued by Yoshimura SERT Motul:
YOSHIMURA SERT MOTUL FIGHT BACK AT ESTORIL EWC
Yoshimura SERT Motul: GSX-R1000R – 17th – 4th in Championship.
The Yoshimura SERT Motul Suzuki team fought back adversity in today’s Endurance World Championship second round in Portugal to keep their 2021 title hopes alive.
GSX-R1000R riders Sylvain Guintoli, Gregg Black and Xavier Simeon dominated the 12 Hours of Estoril in rising temperatures but showed their team spirit to claw back after two unfortunate accidents.
The Yoshimura SERT Motul Suzuki team at Estoril. Photo courtesy Suzuki.
At the drop of the flag, Gregg Black was once again the fastest to get out of the starting grid to holeshot the race from his third position.
The Suzuki GSX-R1000R dominated its opponents but the rising heat of the track, which increased each hour, put more and more strain on the tyres grip. The track became tricky and many riders crashed, which was the case for Sylvain Guintoli, sliding-off just before the third hour of the race while in the lead. The whole technical team quickly repaired the damage caused by this crash and when the Suzuki #1 returned to the track, after more than six minutes in the box, it was 17th in the classification.
Black, Xavier Siméon and Guintoli then focused on ensuring their rise in the rankings and get a maximum of points; Guintoli setting the fastest lap of the race.
At mid-race, the GSX-R1000R had already made up part of his deficit on the race leader in sixth position. The podium was therefore once again in sight and the team kept a good race pace while remaining focused on their objective.
However, with five hours to go, Simeon, then fifth in the race, collided violently with a competitor.
But with all podium hopes gone, the team did not give up and after a long mechanical intervention in the pits, the Suzuki #1 was back on track in 24th position with the new objective of winning some precious points for the championship.
This perseverance and determination was rewarded with 17th place at the finish, which sees the Yoshimura SERT Motul team to leave the Portuguese circuit with seven additional points.
The next race of the season will take place on the Paul Ricard circuit in Castellet, in France for the 84th edition of the Bol d’Or on September 18 and 19th.
Damien Saulnier – Team Manager SERT: “This race has proven once again that in Endurance, nothing is ever decided in advance. We came here with points ahead, a lot of hope, a well-functioning team and three fast riders. At the start of the race, we showed our potential. And then, a few hours later the result is completely different. It’s racing, with its ups and downs. It’s up to us to reverse the trend at the Bol d’Or.”
Yohei Kato – Team Director: “Of course, it’s a disappointment for us to finish in this position. There were two crashes but we could also see the performance of our team. Our tyres were very good. We also managed the consumption of the bike well. Everything worked well and we showed that we have the potential to win here. The championship is still open and we will fight at the Bol d’Or to get back to the lead.”
Xavier Siméon: “I am obviously very disappointed. Once again, the team did a very good job, which allowed us to be very competitive in the race, in a position we didn’t expect. Then there were some race events that worked against us this time. I’m really sorry for the team who gave 200% as usual. It’s a shame to finish the race with this result. We had all the elements in hand to fight for victory.”
Sylvain Guintoli: “It was the opposite of Le Mans for us. We started the race very well and then my crash disrupted our progress. But after that, we started off really well and the podium was within our reach. But Xavier was really unlucky. It’s a racing event, not his mistake. The bike was badly damaged in that second crash and we lost a lot of time. Overall I think we showed determination and good pace in the second part of the race. The positions are getting closer in the championship. This will make for an interesting race at the Bol d’Or.”
Gregg Black: “In practice we saw that there was a small gap between us and the two leading bikes. But our team worked well until the last minute, so I was efficient right away in the race. It was surprising to see how much we had improved. The conditions were difficult for everyone, but everything worked very well for us. Maybe too well. We shouldn’t have played the game of our opponents and secured a good place. But when a victory is in your grasp, it’s very hard to let your chance go. This time we paid the consequences. It’s a lesson to remember.”
YOSHIMURA SERT MOTUL SUZUKI – HOUR-BY-HOUR STATS:
1: Yoshimura SERT Motul – 1st (35 laps)
2: Yoshimura SERT Motul – 1st (70 laps)
3: Yoshimura SERT Motul – 15th (101 laps)
4: Yoshimura SERT Motul – 10th (135 laps)
5: Yoshimura SERT Motul – 8th (170 laps)
6: Yoshimura SERT Motul – 6th (206 laps)
7: Yoshimura SERT Motul – 5th (241 laps)
8: Yoshimura SERT Motul – 24th (258 laps)
9: Yoshimura SERT Motul – 22nd (293 laps)
10: Yoshimura SERT Motul – 20th (328 laps)
11: Yoshimura SERT Motul – 17th (364 laps)
12: Yoshimura SERT Motul – 17th (400 laps)
More, from a press release issued by F.C.C. TSR Honda France:
F.C.C. TSR Honda France win the 12 Hours of Estoril
F.C.C. TSR Honda France took an incredible victory on Saturday winning the 12 Hours of Estoril, after completing 417 laps of the 4.182km Portuguese circuit aboard the Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP.
Honda’s endurance specialists, Josh Hook, Mike Di Meglio and Yuki Takahasi fought hard aboard the Fireblade SP, and with consistent race pace they took the win despite the hot conditions.
The winning team at Estoril included Mike De Meglio, Josh Hook, and Yuki Takahashi. Photo courtesy EWC.
F.C.C. TSR Honda France started the 12-hour race in fourth place with Di Meglio and after the first three hours of the race, the team were already sitting in third position. Thanks to consistent stints by the riders of the Honda #5, the Japanese team managed to move into second place by half race distance with consistently fast lap times.
Entering the last quarter of the race, they narrowed the gap with the leader of the race, putting pressure on Webike SRC Kawasaki France Trickstar, who with just an hour and a half left of the race, ran out of petrol and had to enter the pits.
In the last 50 minutes of the race, Hook did the final stint and took the Fireblade #5 to the victory, taking the checkered flag one lap in front of the Kawasaki team.
The win sees the team collect 46 valuable points, which moves them into second place overall in the 2021 FIM Endurance World Championship standings with a total of 82 points.
National Motos Honda on the #55 Fireblade also enjoyed a strong race. The trio of Guillaume Antiga, Stéphane Egea and Enzo Boulom, who started in 13th place on the grid (fourth in Superstock class), finished on the podium claiming second place.
After the fourth hour, the French team were leading the Superstock class, but by the middle of the race, they had lost laps due to the entrance of the safety car, and ran out of fuel, which demoted them to second place.
The third and next round of the FIM EWC Championship takes place on 18 September, with the legendary Bol d’Or at Circuit Paul Ricard in France.
Josh Hook 5, F.C.C. TSR Honda France: “Everybody did such a great job, we didn’t make any mistakes, we focused on our pace and just keep it throughout the race. For sure that we were lucky today but at the end we won, we knew our potential, and consistency paid off. Huge thanks to the team for the great work during the whole week.”
Mike Di Meglio 5, F.C.C. TSR Honda France:
“After a tough week, finishing in this way is a great reward. It’s all about endurance, you must never give up. I asked if I could attack in my last stint and that allowed us to put pressure on our opponents, some of whom made mistakes. We gave it all and we went all the way, it’s incredible.”
Yuki Takahashi 5, F.C.C. TSR Honda France:
“It was very hard for us since the beginning of the week but everyone has worked well to solve problems one step at a time. Today we gave it all and I am very happy for this victory.”
Race
Pos Team Constructor Pts
1 F.C.C. TSR Honda France Honda 46
2 WEBIKE SRC KAWASAKI France TRICKSTAR Kawasaki 39
3 BMW WORLD ENDURANCE TEAM BMW 36
4 VRD IGOL PIERRET EXPERIENCES Yamaha 29
5 MOTO AIN Yamaha 24
6 BMRT 3D MAXXESS NEVERS Kawasaki 0
7 ERC ENDURANCE-DUCATI Ducati 20
8 Team Bolliger Switzerland Kawasaki 19
9 National Motos Honda 0
10 YART – Yamaha Official Team EWC Yamaha 18
11 Wójcik Racing Team Yamaha 15
12 3ART BEST OF BIKE Yamaha 13
13 TEAM 18 SAPEURS POMPIERS CMS MOTOSTORE Yamaha 0
14 TEAM 33 LOUIT APRIL MOTO Kawasaki 0
15 SLIDER ENDURANCE Yamaha 0
16 Team LRP Poland BMW 10
17 YOSHIMURA SERT MOTUL Suzuki 12
18 FALCON RACING Yamaha 0
19 NO LIMITS MOTOR TEAM Suzuki 0
20 ENERGIE ENDURANCE 91 Kawasaki 0
21 PITLANE ENDURANCE 86 Yamaha 0
22 JMA RACING – ACTION BIKE Suzuki 0
23 TRT27 BAZAR 2 LA BECANE Suzuki 0
24 British Endurance Racing Team Suzuki 0
25 WOJCIK RACING TEAM 2 Yamaha 0
26 RAC 41 CHROMEBURNER Honda 0
27 PLAYERS Kawasaki 0
28 MOTOBOX KREMER RACING Yamaha 8
29 TATI TEAM BERINGER RACING Kawasaki –
30 AVIOBIKE Yamaha –
More, from a press release issued by FIM World Endurance Championship:
NATIONAL MOTOS WIN EWC DUNLOP INDEPENDENT TROPHY AT ESTORIL
National Motos continued their excellent performance in the EWC Dunlop Independent Trophy. Having finished in second place in the Superstock class in Portugal, the Honda team received the €4,000 prize awarded to the winner of the EWC Dunlop Independent Trophy and maintained their position at the top of the FIM Endurance World Cup standings. Team 18 Sapeurs-Pompiers CMS Motostore and Team 33 Louit April Moto were the other two teams on the EWC Dunlop Independent Trophy podium at Estoril.
In the saddle of the National Motos Honda, Stéphane Egéa, Guillaume Antiga and Enzo Boulom were in the running for the 1st place in Superstock, but were deprived of the win after running out of fuel. 9th overall at the finish and 2nd in the Superstock class, they won the EWC Dunlop Independent Trophy and the accompanying €4,000 purse.
Despite a crash early on, Team 18 Sapeurs-Pompiers CMS Motostore performed superbly in the latter stages of the race and climbed onto the 3rd step of the Superstock podium, winning 2nd place in the EWC Dunlop Independent Trophy with riders Hugo Clère, Johan Nigon and Matthieu Lussiana. The Yamaha-mounted independent team received a €3,000 EWC Dunlop Independent Trophy prize at the 12 Hours of Estoril.
Team 33 Louit April Moto’s Kawasaki was the 4th Superstock past the finish line, one lap behind the Sapeurs-Pompiers. Christian Gamarino, Corentin Perolari and Luca Vitali got off to a good start but had a difficult race in the heat at Estoril. Their determination enabled them to claim the €2,700 prize awarded to the 3rd-place winner of the EWC Dunlop Independent Trophy at Estoril.
Seven other independent teams using Dunlop tyres were awarded prizes at the 12 Hours of Estoril. They received amounts ranging from €2,300 down to €500 for the team ranked 10th in the EWC Dunlop Independent Trophy.
Renewed for the 6th successive season by FIM EWC promoter Eurosport Events, the organizers of each race in the FIM Endurance World Championship and tyre manufacturer Dunlop, the EWC Dunlop Independent Trophy gives backing to privateer teams using Dunlop tyres who do not receive direct support from a constructor. €120,000 will be awarded this season to support teams participating in the EWC Dunlop Independent Trophy.
A scene from a previous AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days. Photo courtesy AMA.
The Crossroads will feature the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Ride-in Bike Show presented by Old Bike Barn, vendors and more
PICKERINGTON, Ohio — The Old Bike Barn Crossroads will return to 2021 AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days on July 23-25 at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in Lexington, Ohio.
One of the central hubs of activity at AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days, the Old Bike Barn Crossroads will feature the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Ride-in Bike Show presented by Old Bike Barn, Hall of Fame tent complete with On Any Sunday bikes and memorabilia, vendors, AMA tent selling On Any Sunday and AMA merchandise and more.
“We here at Old Bike Barn look forward to AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days every year,” said Old Bike Barn founder and chief technology officer Bear Haughton. “This is easily our favorite event to be a part of. There is something about the atmosphere and energy there that you just don’t get anywhere else.”
“The blending of multiple generations with the same passion for vintage motorcycles has us smiling all weekend,” Haughton added. “We look forward to seeing all you vintage motorcycle fanatics this year!”
Old Bike Barn (https://www.oldbikebarn.com) is a mail-order parts and accessories business based in Columbus, Ohio. The company, started in 2001, offers a selection of custom and maintenance parts for vintage American and Japanese street bikes, café racers, choppers, bobbers and V-twins.
“Old Bike Barn has been a part of AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days for well over a decade,” said AMA Editorial Director Mitch Boehm. “The Old Bike Barn crossroads and the legendary AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Bike Show presented by Old Bike Barn always brings in a crowd to see the epic vintage motorcycles that show up. We’re excited to welcome Old Bike Barn back to AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days, and and we always look forward to seeing what classic bikes they bring along to display.”
The 2021 AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days will feature an On Any Sunday theme, celebrating 50 years of the moto documentary, with David Aldana — one of the film’s legendary stars — serving as Grand Marshal. There will also be a special outdoor screening of the beloved film on Friday, July 23.
Along with all the action at the Old Bike Barn Crossroads, there will be plenty of racing action for racers and fans. There will be vintage competition in road racing, motocross, hare scrambles and trials at Mid-Ohio, and flat track racing at the nearby Ashland County Fairgrounds. Riders as young as age 4 are permitted to compete in motocross, while those 12 and up can ride in trials, dirt track and hare-scrambles events. Learn more and register today.
Tickets are still available at midohio.com or can be purchased at the gate on the days of the event for an additional $10.
About the American Motorcyclist Association
Founded in 1924, the AMA is a not-for-profit member-based association whose mission is to promote the motorcycle lifestyle and protect the future of motorcycling. As the world’s largest motorcycling rights and event sanctioning organization, the AMA advocates for riders’ interests at all levels of government and sanctions thousands of competition and recreational events every year. The AMA also provides money-saving discounts on products and services for its members. Through the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio, the AMA honors the heroes and heritage of motorcycling. For more information, visit americanmotorcyclist.com.
Not a member? Join the AMA today: americanmotorcyclist.com.
A “press release” is promotional text issued by a rider, team, company or organization to inform
the public about an event, product, or service from the issuer’s own point of view, and if deemed
to have news value, may be placed on roadracingworld.com as a service to our readers.
A press release is not an article written by Roadracingworld.com staffers. When a post is labeled with the words “press release”, it means that Roadracingworld.com is not responsible for its content and that Roadracingworld.com makes no guarantee that it is accurate. Not all press releases are posted and Roadracingworld.com may reject press releases if the content is too heavy on commercial promotion with little or no news value or if the press release contains obvious errors.
Accessibility
Accessibility modes
Epilepsy Safe Mode
Dampens color and removes blinks
This mode enables people with epilepsy to use the website safely by eliminating the risk of seizures that result from flashing or blinking animations and risky color combinations.
Visually Impaired Mode
Improves website's visuals
This mode adjusts the website for the convenience of users with visual impairments such as Degrading Eyesight, Tunnel Vision, Cataract, Glaucoma, and others.
Cognitive Disability Mode
Helps to focus on specific content
This mode provides different assistive options to help users with cognitive impairments such as Dyslexia, Autism, CVA, and others, to focus on the essential elements of the website more easily.
ADHD Friendly Mode
Reduces distractions and improve focus
This mode helps users with ADHD and Neurodevelopmental disorders to read, browse, and focus on the main website elements more easily while significantly reducing distractions.
Blindness Mode
Allows using the site with your screen-reader
This mode configures the website to be compatible with screen-readers such as JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver, and TalkBack. A screen-reader is software for blind users that is installed on a computer and smartphone, and websites must be compatible with it.
Online Dictionary
Readable Experience
Content Scaling
Default
Text Magnifier
Readable Font
Dyslexia Friendly
Highlight Titles
Highlight Links
Font Sizing
Default
Line Height
Default
Letter Spacing
Default
Left Aligned
Center Aligned
Right Aligned
Visually Pleasing Experience
Dark Contrast
Light Contrast
Monochrome
High Contrast
High Saturation
Low Saturation
Adjust Text Colors
Adjust Title Colors
Adjust Background Colors
Easy Orientation
Mute Sounds
Hide Images
Hide Emoji
Reading Guide
Stop Animations
Reading Mask
Highlight Hover
Highlight Focus
Big Dark Cursor
Big Light Cursor
Cognitive Reading
Virtual Keyboard
Navigation Keys
Voice Navigation
Accessibility Statement
www.roadracingworld.com
April 30, 2026
Compliance status
We firmly believe that the internet should be available and accessible to anyone, and are committed to providing a website that is accessible to the widest possible audience,
regardless of circumstance and ability.
To fulfill this, we aim to adhere as strictly as possible to the World Wide Web Consortium’s (W3C) Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.1 (WCAG 2.1) at the AA level.
These guidelines explain how to make web content accessible to people with a wide array of disabilities. Complying with those guidelines helps us ensure that the website is accessible
to all people: blind people, people with motor impairments, visual impairment, cognitive disabilities, and more.
This website utilizes various technologies that are meant to make it as accessible as possible at all times. We utilize an accessibility interface that allows persons with specific
disabilities to adjust the website’s UI (user interface) and design it to their personal needs.
Additionally, the website utilizes an AI-based application that runs in the background and optimizes its accessibility level constantly. This application remediates the website’s HTML,
adapts Its functionality and behavior for screen-readers used by the blind users, and for keyboard functions used by individuals with motor impairments.
If you’ve found a malfunction or have ideas for improvement, we’ll be happy to hear from you. You can reach out to the website’s operators by using the following email
Screen-reader and keyboard navigation
Our website implements the ARIA attributes (Accessible Rich Internet Applications) technique, alongside various different behavioral changes, to ensure blind users visiting with
screen-readers are able to read, comprehend, and enjoy the website’s functions. As soon as a user with a screen-reader enters your site, they immediately receive
a prompt to enter the Screen-Reader Profile so they can browse and operate your site effectively. Here’s how our website covers some of the most important screen-reader requirements,
alongside console screenshots of code examples:
Screen-reader optimization: we run a background process that learns the website’s components from top to bottom, to ensure ongoing compliance even when updating the website.
In this process, we provide screen-readers with meaningful data using the ARIA set of attributes. For example, we provide accurate form labels;
descriptions for actionable icons (social media icons, search icons, cart icons, etc.); validation guidance for form inputs; element roles such as buttons, menus, modal dialogues (popups),
and others. Additionally, the background process scans all the website’s images and provides an accurate and meaningful image-object-recognition-based description as an ALT (alternate text) tag
for images that are not described. It will also extract texts that are embedded within the image, using an OCR (optical character recognition) technology.
To turn on screen-reader adjustments at any time, users need only to press the Alt+1 keyboard combination. Screen-reader users also get automatic announcements to turn the Screen-reader mode on
as soon as they enter the website.
These adjustments are compatible with all popular screen readers, including JAWS and NVDA.
Keyboard navigation optimization: The background process also adjusts the website’s HTML, and adds various behaviors using JavaScript code to make the website operable by the keyboard. This includes the ability to navigate the website using the Tab and Shift+Tab keys, operate dropdowns with the arrow keys, close them with Esc, trigger buttons and links using the Enter key, navigate between radio and checkbox elements using the arrow keys, and fill them in with the Spacebar or Enter key.Additionally, keyboard users will find quick-navigation and content-skip menus, available at any time by clicking Alt+1, or as the first elements of the site while navigating with the keyboard. The background process also handles triggered popups by moving the keyboard focus towards them as soon as they appear, and not allow the focus drift outside it.
Users can also use shortcuts such as “M” (menus), “H” (headings), “F” (forms), “B” (buttons), and “G” (graphics) to jump to specific elements.
Disability profiles supported in our website
Epilepsy Safe Mode: this profile enables people with epilepsy to use the website safely by eliminating the risk of seizures that result from flashing or blinking animations and risky color combinations.
Visually Impaired Mode: this mode adjusts the website for the convenience of users with visual impairments such as Degrading Eyesight, Tunnel Vision, Cataract, Glaucoma, and others.
Cognitive Disability Mode: this mode provides different assistive options to help users with cognitive impairments such as Dyslexia, Autism, CVA, and others, to focus on the essential elements of the website more easily.
ADHD Friendly Mode: this mode helps users with ADHD and Neurodevelopmental disorders to read, browse, and focus on the main website elements more easily while significantly reducing distractions.
Blindness Mode: this mode configures the website to be compatible with screen-readers such as JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver, and TalkBack. A screen-reader is software for blind users that is installed on a computer and smartphone, and websites must be compatible with it.
Keyboard Navigation Profile (Motor-Impaired): this profile enables motor-impaired persons to operate the website using the keyboard Tab, Shift+Tab, and the Enter keys. Users can also use shortcuts such as “M” (menus), “H” (headings), “F” (forms), “B” (buttons), and “G” (graphics) to jump to specific elements.
Additional UI, design, and readability adjustments
Font adjustments – users, can increase and decrease its size, change its family (type), adjust the spacing, alignment, line height, and more.
Color adjustments – users can select various color contrast profiles such as light, dark, inverted, and monochrome. Additionally, users can swap color schemes of titles, texts, and backgrounds, with over seven different coloring options.
Animations – person with epilepsy can stop all running animations with the click of a button. Animations controlled by the interface include videos, GIFs, and CSS flashing transitions.
Content highlighting – users can choose to emphasize important elements such as links and titles. They can also choose to highlight focused or hovered elements only.
Audio muting – users with hearing devices may experience headaches or other issues due to automatic audio playing. This option lets users mute the entire website instantly.
Cognitive disorders – we utilize a search engine that is linked to Wikipedia and Wiktionary, allowing people with cognitive disorders to decipher meanings of phrases, initials, slang, and others.
Additional functions – we provide users the option to change cursor color and size, use a printing mode, enable a virtual keyboard, and many other functions.
Browser and assistive technology compatibility
We aim to support the widest array of browsers and assistive technologies as possible, so our users can choose the best fitting tools for them, with as few limitations as possible. Therefore, we have worked very hard to be able to support all major systems that comprise over 95% of the user market share including Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Apple Safari, Opera and Microsoft Edge, JAWS and NVDA (screen readers).
Notes, comments, and feedback
Despite our very best efforts to allow anybody to adjust the website to their needs. There may still be pages or sections that are not fully accessible, are in the process of becoming accessible, or are lacking an adequate technological solution to make them accessible. Still, we are continually improving our accessibility, adding, updating and improving its options and features, and developing and adopting new technologies. All this is meant to reach the optimal level of accessibility, following technological advancements. For any assistance, please reach out to
