Stuart “Stuman” Smith has been road racing motorcycles at the club level in southern California for about 20 years. He has won several class championships racing with WSMC at Willow Springs and CVMA at Chuckwalla Valley Raceway. Stuart is a former lap record holder at Willow Springs on both the “Big Track” and “The Streets”. He has also raced motocross, supermoto, minimoto, and downhill mountain bikes.
Stuart has been an active riding coach for about 18 years. He started his career working for The California Superbike School as a full-time coach and reached their highest level of certification (Class III). Stuart is currently a USMCA Certified Sportbike Coach and is currently coaching for SoCal Supermoto, Racer’s Edge and working with private clients. Stuart is also the new racer school instructor for CVMA at Chuckwalla Valley Raceway.
Leon Haslam prepares for Donington home round, also a favourite of Alvaro Bautista
Team HRC riders Leon Haslam and Alvaro Bautista are set to race at Donington Park (UK) this weekend, one of their favourite venues and one that also has a special place in the hearts of the WorldSBK fans.
Last time out, the team worked hard at the Misano World Circuit, completing the third championship round with a best result of sixth for Alvaro Bautista in race 1. Leon Haslam’s weekend was hindered by a few small issues that he is confident he can iron out in time for his home round.
There was no UK SBK event last year owing to the Covid-19 pandemic, but both Bautista and Haslam reached the podium during the 2019 event at Donington Park. The British event is often characterised by mixed or wet weather, conditions in which both the riders are comfortable, Leon having in fact scored one of his 2019 podium-finishes in the rain (Superpole Race).
The Donington Park circuit, located in the county of Leicestershire in England, measures 4.023 km in length and is one of the historic WorldSBK tracks, having hosted the championship’s very first race in fact, back in 1988. It is the oldest British track still in operation today.
“Donington is a very nice track, one of my favourites when we went there with the 125cc and 250cc championships in fact. When I returned two years ago with the Superbike I found it more challenging due to the type of bike, but still very enjoyable. I especially like the mixed section of the track. I am also very happy to be back knowing that there will be fans in the grandstands because there is so much love and support for the sport and for Superbike here in the UK. As far as the set-up is concerned, we don’t have any reference points for this track, so we’ll start from a basic set-up and try to improve from there. In testing at Navarra we tried some electronic things that will probably help us in this race and let’s hope the weather is good and we can work well all weekend, never a given in England. As a team, we are really keen to take steps forward and move closer to the front, so we look forward to Donington with optimism and a determination to do well.”
Leon Haslam 91
“We didn’t race at Donington last year so it’s especially nice to be heading there again now. It’s my home circuit and so I’m really looking forward to it of course, particularly as we’ll have the support of some local fans. We completed a test after the Misano race weekend and they never stop working back in Japan, so we hope we can hit the ground running at Donington and fight for the kind of results we know we can achieve.”
Jonathan Rea and Alex Lowes will race at home for the first time since 2019 when the FIM Superbike World Championship arrives at Donington Park for round four of the current season. The action will take place between 2 and 4 July in front of a limited number of fans each day.
The Covid-19 pandemic meant there was no British round last season but this year Jonathan and Alex will have the chance to race at a British circuit again. WorldSBK itself was born at Donington Park way back in 1988 and there can be no more appropriate circuit to host the return to race action in the UK than where it all began.
The 4.023km long circuit in the very heart of the English Midlands has witnessed five WorldSBK race wins for Rea in the past, four of them on Kawasaki machinery. Through the years Kawasaki riders have scored 18 WorldSBK Race wins at Donington, more than any other single manufacturer. The last time WorldSBK raced there Rea won all three Donington races.
After three rounds of the championship on the new Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10RR Rea leads by 20 points, with Lowes fourth overall. Lowes scored three podium finishes during the opening round, while six-times champion Rea has taken nine podiums in nine 2021 season races, including four race wins.
Since the most recent race weekend, at Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli in mid-June, Rea and Lowes have tested at the all-new WorldSBK venue of Navarra in Spain. They approach Donington well-prepared ready to put on the best possible show for the small number of enthusiastic fans allowed into Donington this weekend.
Both Jonathan and Alex see their home round as an ideal base from which to build even more momentum to take forward into what is scheduled to be the remainder of a long 13-round/39 race season.
The layout of Donington features two strongly-contrasting sections. The first is almost exclusively compromised of medium-to-fast curves and several changes of elevation. The final Melbourne Loop section features hard braking and acceleration zones with one chicane, one right hand hairpin and one left hand hairpin leading onto the short 550m start/finish straight. Overall bike set-up is, by necessity, a balance between optimum performance in the faster and slower sections.
Unusually, there will be no WorldSSP races at Donington, nor a round of the WorldSSP300 championship. Both those classes will rejoin the WorldSBK calendar at Assen in the Netherlands between July 23-25.
Jonathan Rea (1). Photo courtesy Kawasaki.
Jonathan Rea, stated: “I am really excited to go to Donington because we missed it last year. We had a great weekend there in 2019 and it is a circuit that I really enjoy riding at. From past experience it is also a good track for the Ninja ZX-10RR so I am excited to get the new and improved 2021 model there. Our first home race in two years and we will have some fans trackside, which is nice, although it would have been good to have a packed Donington. There will be a bit of atmosphere there and I am looking froward to it. I hope to make a really strong weekend and work from Friday morning to understand the tyre options Pirelli has brought, and we will continue to fine-tune our bike to be ready for the races. At the recent Navarra test we tried some chassis options and we have a great understanding of the working window of the bike, so we have options should we face some limitations. I feel we really understood how we could get the bike to turn better and that will help us in some sections at Donington.”
Alex Lowes (22). Photo courtesy Dorna WorldSBK Press Office.
Alex Lowes, stated: “It is great that we are heading back to the UK round of WorldSBK after missing it last year because of the Covid-19 situation. There will not be as many fans as we would like, due to the limitations that have been put in place, but it will be great to be riding in front of the British fans again. Coming up through the BSB series I feel a really good and close relationship with the fans here. That is going to be one of the main things that is going to be really enjoyable. The second thing is that I like the track, it has always been a fun track for me, and I have taken some good results there. On top of that the Kawasaki – looking back – has always gone quite well there. This will be my first time trying the Ninja ZX-10RR at Donington and I am excited about it. It is a track that looks like it works well for the bike. Kawasaki has won plenty of races there and the target for me is to get back on the podium. We had solid second and third rounds of the championship, but maybe the higher temperatures and some track layouts did not quite suit the bike quite as well as some others. So, the target is clear for this weekend. Get back on the podium like we started the year in Aragon and enjoy the whole weekend in front of the home fans.”
Lucas Mahias (Kawasaki Puccetti Racing) and Isaac Vinales (Orelac Racing VerdNatura Kawasaki) will ride their Ninja ZX-10RR machines for the first time at Donington, in what is a rookie WorldSBK season for both former WorldSSP riders. Thus far Mahias is the highest-ranked Kawasaki rider in the Independent Riders’ championship standings, in fourth place. He is 13th in the overall championship table. Vinales is 19th overall.
Loris Cresson (TPR Outdo Kawasaki) will take on Donington for the first time in his new role as full-time WorldSBK rider. Local rider Luke Mossey will ride the second TPR Outdo Kawasaki at his home circuit of Donington, as he replaces the outgoing Samuele Cavalieri for this round.
More, from a press release issued by Pata Yamaha:
Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK Hope for Home Advantage at Donington Park
Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK riders Toprak Razgatlıoğlu and Andrea Locatelli are eagerly looking forward to the fourth round of the 2021 FIM Superbike World Championship at Donington Park, near Derby in the United Kingdom, this weekend from 2-4 July.
Following success at Misano with Razgatlıoğlu and the team’s first victory of 2021, the largely UK-based squad are hoping for a repeat of its recent run of podium form. Donington Park was the site of the team’s dominant double win in 2018, which saw the first victory for Yamaha since the manufacturers’ return to WorldSBK competition in 2016.
Razgatlıoğlu also has fond memories of the circuit, having celebrated his first podium in WorldSBK in the runner up position in Race 2 of the same year. The Turkish ace’s personal record on British soil includes two further second-place finishes in 2019 achieved before he made the switch to Yamaha.
Teammate Locatelli will race for the first time at Donington Park this weekend, having missed the opportunity to tackle the unique circuit during his title-winning season in the FIM Supersport World Championship category due to the pandemic. The 24-year-old welcomed the opportunity to become familiar with the undulating layout during a training day, on a standard Yamaha R1, earlier this month with British Superbike rider Tarran Mackenzie on hand from the McAMS Yamaha team to offer advice.
The first opportunity for both riders to turn a wheel in anger will come on Friday morning with Free Practice 1 at 10:30 (UTC+1), followed by Free Practice 2 at 15:00, with mixed weather conditions expected over the weekend.
Toprak Razgatlioglu (54). Photo courtesy Yamaha.
Toprak Razgatlıoğlu
“Donington Park is a great track! Normally I like it a lot as it is really fast and flowing, I think it is my favourite track, but the last time we raced there was 2019. I am excited because this weekend will be the first time with the R1 WorldSBK at Donington. I remember in 2018 that Michael won both races with the Yamaha, so this year of course I want to be fighting again for the win. We will see, I’ll say it again, I am really excited! A lot can happen and we will see what is possible in the race weekend, but my plan is to fight at the front again and to enjoy the races.”
Andrea Locatelli (55). Photo courtesy Yamaha.
Andrea Locatelli
“I’m excited to ride at Donington – I have only seen it once on a training day with Paul when we rode on standard R1s. It’s been an interesting couple of weeks because we have also had two days of testing at the new track at Navarra. We did a really good job with the team and from this I have gained more confidence working on the base setting of the R1 WorldSBK for my riding style. The feeling is improving every time, which is very important. For sure, Friday will not be easy as I will need to learn the track with the full superbike and find the feeling on this circuit as well. Every Friday, it’s not easy for us but I am confident we will arrive a little more ready following the Navarra test. We will try to take another good step and have a good result in Donington, I think it is possible!”
More, from a press release issued by BMW Motorrad Motorsport:
Donington Park is the next stop for BMW Motorrad Motorsport in the WorldSBK.
Fourth round of the season in the FIM Superbike World Championship 2021.
Historic circuit in the heart of England.
BMW Motorrad Motorsport using time between races for testing at Navarra, Spain.
Munich. Donington Park (GBR) is the next stop for BMW Motorrad Motorsport in the FIM Superbike World Championship. The fourth round of the 2021 WorldSBK season will take place this coming weekend (2nd to 4th July) at the historic circuit in the heart of England. The BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team will once again be competing with riders Michael van der Mark (NED) and Tom Sykes (GBR), as well as Eugene Laverty (IRL) and Jonas Folger (GER) for the BMW satellite teams RC Squadra Corse and Bonovo MGM Racing.
After the third round at Misano (ITA), WorldSBK took a short break with no races taking place over two weekends. BMW Motorrad Motorsport used that time for two days of testing at Navarra (ESP). The Spanish circuit has been added to the calendar this year and will host the seventh race event of the season from 20th to 22nd August. The tests provided an opportunity to continue development of the new BMW M 1000 RR, while simultaneously becoming familiar with the characteristics of the circuit.
The focus now switches to the upcoming weekend at Donington Park. The very first WorldSBK race took place on this track in April 1988. Donington has been a fixture on the calendar since then, even though the event had to be cancelled last year due to the Coronavirus pandemic.
Quotes ahead of the Donington round.
Marc Bongers, BMW Motorrad Motorsport Director: “The first three events of the season showed us what areas we need to work on with our new BMW M 1000 RR, and we did that during testing at Navarra, among other things. We tried out and evaluated a few new parts in the chassis area, for example. Now we are looking forward to the race weekend at Donington Park. That is a traditional, old-school circuit and the layout has a really challenging mix of everything. There are fast, fluid sections as well as hairpin bends, climbs and slopes. We will see how well our M RR copes with this track. We are excited to see what the weather will be like at the weekend, as that can always be an unpredictable factor at Donington.”
Shaun Muir, Team Principal BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team: “We’re looking forward to coming to the UK round of the World Superbike Championship. The Navarra test was quite conclusive for us. We have a better direction with the chassis after the chassis work both Tom and Michael have done. Hopefully we can transfer some of that into the Donington event. The forecast for the Donington event is quite changeable. Friday is fair weather but Saturday and Sunday it looks like we have some wet weather appearing just right during the mid-days. So we could be racing in changeable conditions with potential pit stops so we need to be ready for that eventuality. Overall as a team, we are in a good position, disappointed from Misano for sure, but we need to put things right for Donington and hopefully we can do just this.”
Michael van der Mark (60). Photo courtesy BMW Motorrad Motorsport.
Michael van der Mark, BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team: “It was good to have a test at Navarra, not only as we race there later this year, but also as we had faced some problems at Misano and BMW responded very quick so we had some new parts to Navarra test. I was happy with the test; it was a step in the right direction but of course you have to see if it also works on a different track but luckily we have Donington this weekend. Donington is fantastic; I really love these old-school circuits. I had some good results there in the past and I love the circuit and the history and after missing it last year, it is good to go back there now. Regarding the characteristics, for me the first part is the best; it is fast and flowing and a really exciting section of the track. The last part does not really fit to that but there you have some really good overtaking opportunities so the circuit is exciting in two very different ways.”
Tom Sykes (66). Photo courtesy BMW Motorrad Motorsport.
Tom Sykes, BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team: “For me, the Navarra test was good for a number of reasons. First and foremost it was to continue the development of the new BMW M 1000 RR. We had some items that we needed to confirm there and we were able to do that. Then it was great to learn the circuit and get some data there for when we go back in August for the races. Now I am obviously looking forward to my home race at Donington. I’ve had a lot of success there in the past and I really hope that we can find the set-up to enable me to be more consistent and stronger over the race weekend. We need to work on finding those last little items now to put us in that position. The new M RR has had a big step in terms of engine and braking performance and quite a number of other things so we just need to find the last part of the jigsaw so we can use all of this. I am looking forward to going there and fingers crossed we can have some good British weather. But we take what we get and try to get a strong result.”
Eugene Laverty (50). Photo courtesy BMW Motorrad Motorsport.
Eugene Laverty, RC Squadra Corse: “The three-week break has given me a chance to recover fully from my Misano crash. I feel fit and ready to get back in the mix. The majority of the Donington circuit has a flowing nature and that suits the BMW M 1000 RR well. That said, we will continue to work on our weak area of braking because that’s where the races are often decided at Donington Park. Three hard braking areas finish the lap and that will be the main focus of our work during Friday practice in order to be ready for the races.”
Jonas Folger (94). Photo courtesy BMW Motorrad Motorsport.
Jonas Folger, Bonovo MGM Racing: “I am already looking forward to Donington, even though it has been a while since I was there last – 13 years. As far as I can remember, it is a cool track. Donington is a real classic on the racing calendar. I hope that we can take another step forward after testing at Navarra and that we can improve.”
Matt Smith blasts down the strip with his Buell® taking the winner’s circle
Matt’s second victory this season
[Norwalk, Ohio.]: On Sunday June 27, 2021, Matt Smith blasted past the competition on his Buell® at the NHRA Summit, at Summit Racing Equipment Motorsports Park, in Norwalk, Ohio.
Sunday’s competition was fierce in the Pro Stock motorcycle class with Steve Johnson burning rubber and taking the lead in the previous two races. However, Smith turned it up a notch, dialed in and rode his Buell® into the winner’s circle.
Smith now holds 28 victories in his career, two of which he won this season.
Steve Laham, Chief Product Officer at Buell Motorcycles said, “First, the entire Buell family wants to send our prayers out to fellow Pro Stock Motorcycle Racer Kelly Clontz and to long time veteran Top Fuel Driver Luigi Novelli, we hope to see them back on the track soon. Speaking of the track, congratulations to Matt Smith as he blasted his Buell in the outstanding tradition of Buell performance, he set top speed of the event in his final winning round at over 200mph. Thank you once again to Matt Smith and his Buell race team and all the Buell fans, Buell is Back.”
About Buell: Buell is proud to be part of the NHRA family and the exciting events they hold. We look forward to seeing more familiar faces at more upcoming events, both in the stands and on the track. Experience American Performance on a Buell.
Visit the Buell website for more information at:www.BuellMotorcycle.com.
More, from another press release issued by Buell:
Logan Cipala Climbs to the Top with Buell® for Another Win
Riding the 1190HCR Buell® brings another win for Logan
[Columbus, Mon.]: On June 26, 2021, Nitro National Pro Hillclimb held races for multiple classes with Logan Cipala competing in the 450, Xclimb, 700, and the Open class. In the open class, Cipala competed on the Buell® 1190HCR.
Saturday’s competition was fierce in the open class with the top players being Harold Waddell on a [Suzuki] GSX-1340, Jake Anstett on a KTM1190, and Cipala on the Buell 1190HCR.
“Being the first trip to this event on the new bike was a little nerve wracking but the new chassis and Buell motor combination worked incredibly well,” said Logan Cipala. “Qualifying on Friday I took second and left my setup unchanged going into the finals. However, Saturday the hill dried up quite a bit, but my IRC M5B Evo tires helped keep the power to the ground.”
Even with Cipala’s nerves on edge he powered through the hillclimb, trampling the competition for another win on his Buell 1190HCR.
“Congratulations from the Buell family to the Cipala’s and especially Logan on taking first place on his Buell 1190HCR,” said Steve Laham, Chief Product Officer at Buell Motorcycle. “I was on my way home from the NHRA race in Norwalk Ohio on Saturday evening and I was thinking how special it would be to win at NHRA and at the Nitro nationals, then late in the evening the text came that Logan flew his Buell into first place for the win.”
Visit the Buell website for more information at: www.BuellMotorcycle.com.
From the Made in Italy skills of Energica Motor Company S.p.A. and Mavel is born EMCE, the new electric motor of Energica motorcycles
Energica presents EMCE, the new electric motor created in co-engineering with the Italian company Mavel.
The name of the new EMCE motor is the acronym of Energica Mavel Co-Engineering and was born as a direct expression of the mentality of the Modenese motorcycle manufacturer, which every year focuses on technological innovation and the improvement of already high technological performance.
“The introduction on the market of the new EMCE engine was scheduled for release in 2022, but following the difficulties of our supply chain – due to the global pandemic situation – we decided to anticipate this timing and instead, in just 6 months we have developed this co-engineering with Mavel, into our current model year production.” Says Giampiero Testoni, CTO of Energica Motor Company S.p.A.
Thanks to the new EMCE motor, peak power increases to 126 kW at 8,500 rpm and with a liquid-cooling method that guarantees greater performance, Energica motorcycles will now be lighter by 10 kg, with a relative increase in range of 5-10% according to riding style.
Inside the EMCE motor, we therefore find all the passion of the Motor Valley and the renowned skills behind the words “Made in Italy”.
Pirelli Takes the Top Two Positions at Utah Motorsports Complex Round of Bagger Racing League
Michael Barnes and Tyler O’Hara Rely on the Performance of Pirelli’s DIABLO Superbike Range in the Bagger GP Class
Michael Barnes (34) and Tyler O’Hara (29) gave Pirelli a 1-2 finish in the Bagger Racing League Bagger GP race at Utah Motorsports Campus. Photo by CaliPhotography.com, courtesy Pirelli.
GRANTSVILLE, Utah (June 30, 2021) – Pirelli Tire North America showed its commitment to racing across all spectrums by dominating the competition in both the Bagger Racing League BAGGER GP Class and the PRO STOCK BAGGER Class at Utah Motorsports Complex on Sunday, June 27. Pirelli controlled the top two positions in BAGGER GP with Michael Barnes racing to victory aboard a Harley Davidson and Indian Motorcycle rider Tyler O’Hara finishing a close second. Both Barnes and O’Hara relied on the performance of Pirelli’s DIABLO Superbike range. In PRO STOCK BAGGER, Benny Carlson rode his Sly Fox-backed Harley Davidson to the top step of the podium with Pirelli shod Oleg Pianykh taking second, also using the DIABLO Superbike Range of tires.
“The weekend off started really good and I was able to get pole position,” said Barnes. “I was fast right out of the gate and the switch over to the DIABLO Superbike SCX rear helped us find even more speed on the racetrack. It got hotter heading into the main race, but it seemed to help the tire become even more consistent and proved to be no issue. Along with Oscar’s [Solis] help, we continued to make improvements all weekend long and did a lot of little fine-tuning with air pressure. It was an incredible weekend!”
Barnes, who was able to control the pace out front, used a 125/70-17 DIABLO Superbike SC1 front tire paired with a 200/65-17 DIABLO Superbike SCX rear. O’Hara opted for a 120/70-17 DIABLO Superbike SC2 front and a 190/60-17 DIABLO Superbike SCX rear to keep the pressure on Barnes for the majority of the race.
“That was the fastest I’ve ever gone on my Indian Challenger,” said O’Hara. “The new Pirelli DIABLO Superbike SCX is next level. My tires provided me with the most lean angle and edge grip I’ve ever had in bagger racing. Thank you, Pirelli, for the support!”
O’Hara managed to clock the fastest lap time of the race and of any rider throughout the weekend with a 1:38.550. Barnes recorded a best lap time of 1:38.635. The duo finished with more than 30-seconds to spare over their nearest competitor.
“What Pirelli riders were able to accomplish this weekend was nothing short of amazing,” said Oscar Solis, senior racing manager, Pirelli. “Bagger racing is something that we’ve only begun to scratch the surface with and it’s really satisfying to have this kind of success right away. Pirelli’s commitment and dedication to racing are second to none and I believe that this weekend just further showed when racers have a choice, they choose Pirelli. Congratulations to Michael [Barnes] and Tyler [O’Hara] on their great rides!”
Pirelli continues to set the bar in roadracing throughout North America, and when spec tire rules do not apply, has been the go-to tire choice for racers looking to reach the top step of the podium. Over the weekend, Pirelli took the lion’s share of podium spots, with a total of four riders on the Bagger Racing League’s first podium presentations.
SUZUKI’S KELLY CONTINUES TO DOMINATE SUPERSPORT IN SEARCH OF THE CHAMPIONSHIP
Brea, CA – Suzuki Motor USA and Team Hammer racked up two wins and five podiums as the 2021 MotoAmerica AMA/FIM North American Road Racing Championship completed a scorching weekend of race action at Ridge Motorsports Park in Shelton, Washington.
Sean Dylan Kelly (40) delivered a dominant performance with two Supersport victories. Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy Suzuki Motor USA.
MotoAmerica Supersport title leader Sean Dylan Kelly and his M4 ECSTAR Suzuki GSX-R600 were more than up to the challenge presented by his competition and the relentless triple-digit temperatures.
‘SDK’ notched up another pole and then translated his one-lap superiority into a pair of critically important race victories. Sunday’s race followed the same basic pattern as Saturday’s with Kelly controlling from the front while remaining precise and in command despite the application of intense pressure from close behind all the way to the checkered flag.
As a result, the Floridian now boasts a 21-point championship advantage on the strength of the five-race wins he’s already earned in 2021.
“That was definitely a tough race… as if yesterday wasn’t tough enough!” Kelly said. “I went out and tried my absolute best and gave my all. It was a great weekend. We got pole again, set the track record, and won both races. We have to be proud of the job we’re doing. This feels amazing, but we just have to keep chipping away and keep our feet on the ground. Huge thank you to my M4 ECSTAR Suzuki team.”
Kelly was joined on the podium on both days by Salvadoran Kevin Olmedo aboard his Team Hammer-built Altus Motorsports Suzuki GSX-R600.
Sam Lochoff (44) earned two solid fourth place finishes on his Suzuki GSX-R600. Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy Suzuki Motor USA.
SDK’s M4 ECSTAR Suzuki teammate Sam Lochoff logged a pair of fourths to add to his impressive rookie MotoAmerica Supersport campaign. As good as that was, the South African came painfully close to scoring a second-career Supersport podium on Sunday, holding down third position until a last-lap off-track excursion opened the door for Olmedo. Lochoff now sits in third place in the Supersport championship points standings.
Cam Petersen (45) earned an impressive third straight Superbike podium finish on his GSX-R1000. Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy Suzuki Motor USA.
Outside of Cameron Petersen adding a third-consecutive MotoAmerica Superbike podium on Saturday, the weekend was one to learn and move on from in the premier class category.
Petersen was solidly positioned to continue his podium streak to four on Sunday before a fluke occurrence, a rear wheel speed sensor failure, forced him to slow and eventually accept sixth position.
Bobby Fong (50) raced hard in tough conditions and is looking forward to Laguna Seca. Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy Suzuki Motor USA.
The round was even more difficult for Petersen’s M4 ECSTAR Suzuki teammate, Bobby Fong, who struggled after crashing hard and destroying his ‘A’ bike during testing on Thursday. Due to lingering issues from his testing fall, Fong lost feeling in his hand during both races. The gritty Californian pushed to his maximum in the blisteringly hot conditions yet was only rewarded for his efforts with uncharacteristic seventh- and eighth-place results.
“We’re trying,” Fong said. “Obviously, we’re trying our hardest over here. It’s not like I forgot how to ride a motorcycle, and we’re giving it our all. I don’t give up, I don’t quit. All the stars have to be aligned in Superbike racing, and we’re going to give it our best at the next round.”
Wyatt Farris (79) continues to improve with two top-10 finishes in the Stock 1000 class. Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy Suzuki Motor USA.
Olmedo’s Altus Motorsports Suzuki teammate Jake Lewis remains within eight points of the Stock 1000 championship lead after claiming a runner-up result aboard his Team Hammer-built GSX-R1000 on Saturday. Unfortunately, a Sunday DNF more than ate up the title padding he had accumulated, but that padding also sees him still within striking distance despite his Sunday misfortune. M4 ECSTAR Suzuki’s Wyatt Farris finished ninth and eighth in the Stock 1000 races in Washington.
Team Hammer will remain on the West Coast for the upcoming MotoAmerica round at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca in beautiful Monterey, California, on July 9-11.
More, from a press release issued by Altus Motorsports:
MotoAmerica: Round 4 Results from The Ridge Motorsports Park for the Altus Motorsports Tucker Environmental Service Solutions Team
(Shelton, WA) A record-breaking heat wave hit the Pacific Northwest just as the MotoAmerica teams rolled into the pits at Ridge Motorsports Park in Shelton, Washington. With temperatures well over 100 degrees, it was an extremely hot weekend for racing. Dunlop hosted a tire test at “The Ridge” on the Thursday before the event and the Altus team was there to gather data and continue learning the highly technical track.
Honos Superbike & Stock 1000:
After missing the 2020 race season, Jake Lewis arrived in Washington with no experience of the technical Ridge Motorsports Park track. The team struggled to find a good setup during the Dunlop tire on Thursday and the practice and qualifying sessions on Friday. Due to a change by MotoAmerica, the top Stock1000 riders practiced and qualified with the Superbike Class this weekend. On Saturday the team found something and in Jake’s second qualifying session, he ran the fastest Stock1000 lap and secured pole position for those races
In Race 1 of the Stock1000 class, Jake got a great start and pulled a small gap. Unfortunately, in the heat, his rear tire had rotated 180 degrees on the rim making the bike difficult to ride. With two laps to go, he dropped to 2nd and held that spot to the finish. Lewis also got a great start on Sunday but a mechanical on the first lap forced him to retire from the race.
Jake Lewis (85). Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy Altus Motorsports.
“We had a minor mechanical issue at the start of the Sunday Stock1000 race. If it wasn’t for Jake’s experience and quick thinking, it could have been much worse,” said Crew Chief Eric Gray.
Lewis also contested the Superbike class and started both races from 9th. In race 1 he finished in 9th and second in the Superbike Cup. In the Sunday race, he fished in 14th overall and as the 4th Superbike Cup bike.
Supersport 600:
Jaret Nassaney came out with the team for the pre-race weekend tire test. He spent the time dialing in his setup. Jaret started both races from 11th. He finished Saturday in 8th and Sunday in 9th.
“It was a really good weekend. We survived the heat and got some good results. We have a solid base setup for the rest of the season,” said Jaret Nassaney.
Jaret Nassaney (59). Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy Altus Motorsports.
The Ridge was Kevin Olmedo’s second event back with the team after his shoulder surgery. The benefits of the additional recovery time showed from the first session. Kevin was top 4 in every session and qualified 3rd. In the Saturday race, he held third from start to finish. In the Sunday race, he ran in fourth for most of the race but, on the penultimate lap, made a pass to take third. He finished the weekend with two podiums.
“I feel really happy with these two podiums. I will continue to work on the strength in my shoulder and show up even stronger at Laguna,” said Kevin Olmedo
Kevin Olmedo (16). Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy Altus Motorsports.
Junior Cup:
It was Hayden Bicknese’s first trip to Ridge Motorsports Park but he adapted to the technical track quickly. He was P6 after the first qualifying session and ended up qualifying P9. Unfortunately, he was forced to retire from Race 1 with a mechanical issue. In race 2, an unfortunate crash on lap 5 ended Hayden’s weekend with a second DNF.
Hayden Bicknese (69). Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy Altus Motorsports.
“Those were some of the toughest conditions our team has had to work through. The heat was brutal and I appreciate the incredible effort they put in,” said team owner George Nassaney.
The Altus Motorsports team is supported by our great family of sponsors: Altus Motorsports, Environmental Service Solutions, Suzuki Motor USA, Creative Sports Concepts, Tucker Powersports, Schaefer Engineering, Hot Bodies Racing, M4 Exhausts, Vortex EK, Motion Pro, Barnett, VP Lubricants, SBS Brakes, Galfer USA, Moto-D Racing, Bonamici, Ohlins, K-Tech, RS Taichi, Arai, Law Tigers Oklahoma, and Altus Factory Racing.
More, from a press release issued by Jackson Blackmon Racing:
Blackmon Wins Both Twins Cup Races At The Ridge
Jackson Blackmon (18). Photo by Sara Chappell Photography, courtesy Jackson Blackmon Racing.
Jackson Blackmon was looking for redemption this past weekend in Washington after his third, 2nd place finish this season. Jackson Blackmon Racing has been trying different setups with their 2021 Yamaha MT-07 every race since VIR. It seemed that the MotoAmerica test day on Thursday was just what Blackmon needed to get even more comfortable on his Yamaha. The pace was fast all weekend, however for JBR they were able to improve every session to have their best qualifying of the year!
From his second place starting position, Blackmon, in race one, was able to lead the first lap however it wasn’t long before another rider passed him on lap two. In the middle of the race, another rider got to the front and stretched out a slight gap, however Blackmon would stay within striking distance. The leader then crashed out of the race. This would put Blackmon in a battle for the lead. Blackmon executed the pass on the brakes in turn thirteen the penultimate lap to then take his first Twins Cup victory.
In Race 2, Blackmon executed the perfect race, marking his first flag-to-flag victory in Twins Cup leading from start to finish the whole race.
Jackson Blackmon Racing has now had 5 starts and 5 podiums, with two of them being victories and have a lot of momentum rolling into Laguna. Despite Blackmon missing the first round with a broken wrist, he has come back strong putting himself 2nd in the championship standing, just 3 points out of the lead.
Blackmon was quoted as saying, “I was so happy to take my first win and then able to back it up with two in a row. My dad and I have been working so hard on the bike and with the support from Yamaha we have been able to make the machine handle amazing. We have found a happy baseline setup with my MT-07 and I feel that now I can just focus on my riding and racecraft. I would like to say thank you to each and everyone of my and sponsors and supporters for their help this year. Can’t wait to carry the momentum to Laguna!”
Will we see Blackmon on the new R7 soon? Stay tuned!
JBR would like to thank their sponsors: Yamaha Motor USA, Finishline Machine, North East Cycles, Yamalube, Trackday Winner, GP Tech, Wiseco Pistons, HJC Helmets, Roaring Toyz, Millennium Technologies, OneX, Web Cams, SBS Brakes, Vortex, and 64 Degrees.
Don’t miss any of the action. Be sure to follow Jackson on Facebook:@JacksonBlackmon18 and Instagram @JBlackmon_18
Single race sponsorship opportunities are still available for the 2021 season. Contact Jackson [email protected]
More, from a press release issued by Jeremy Cook Racing:
Jeremy Cook Racing features team of U.S. Marines veterans days after Cook’s collarbone surgery for MotoAmerica Superbikes at the Ridge
BMW rider back on the Stock 1000 grid after suffering multiple injuries in crash at previous MotoAmerica round
Jeremy Cook (81). Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy Jeremy Cook Racing.
SHELTON, Wash. – As MotoAmerica veteran Jeremy Cook boarded a plane Thursday heading from his home city of Baltimore, Md., to Seattle, the BMW rider hoped his trip wouldn’t be in vain. Just two weeks after suffering multiple injuries in a crash at MotoAmerica’s Superbikes at Road America and days after having his shattered collarbone surgically repaired, Cook wasn’t sure if he’d be medically cleared to race at MotoAmerica’s round on June 25-27 at Ridge Motorsports Park.
In the end, Cook was cleared to race and led his team of U.S. Marines veterans to two 16th-place finishes in the weekend’s MotoAmerica Stock 1000 races aboard his BMW S 1000 RR. Just making it to the end of each 13-lap race in brutally hot and humid conditions was a challenge for the ailing Cook, but the former Marine saw the mission through and hopes to be back to better form at the next MotoAmerica round in two weeks time.
It was Cook’s first time racing at The Ridge Motorsports Park. He took part in a track day event at the facility in May thanks to support from South Sound Motorcycles — a BMW dealership in Tacoma, Wash.
Cook sat out the test day on Thursday and both Stock 1000 Class on-track sessions on Friday. He finished Saturday morning’s qualifying session in 17th.
Though he was far from 100 percent healthy, Cook finished both of the weekend’s races higher in the running order than he started. Cook started 20nd on the grid for Saturday afternoon’s race, and attrition farther up the field and a late-race pass allowed Cook to finish in 16th — one position away from scoring a championship point. Cook also improved his pace around the 2.47-mile road course on Saturday, posting a best lap time of 1:49.513 in Race 1 compared to the 1:50.933 he laid down in qualifying.
In Sunday’s Stock 1000 contest, Cook started from 21st but had moved up to 18th by the end of Lap 1 and 17th by the end of Lap 5. Cook again made a move late in the race to gain another position and claimed his second 16th-place finish of the weekend. He again improved his pace, lowering his best lap time of the weekend to a 1:48.593.
Cook’s team for the weekend included U.S. Marine veteran and Motorcycle Xcitement rider coach Dakari Harris and U.S. Marine veteran Don Williams – a participant in the Veterans Empowered through Motorsports program.
Cook has two weeks to heal up before he’s due back on the MotoAmerica grid. The next round takes place July 9-11 at the home of the famed “Corkscrew” turn, WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca in Monterey, Calif.
Jeremy Cook / No. 81
“I wasn’t even sure if I could make it through both races with all the injuries I am dealing with right now, and just seeing the checkered flag in both races was like a small victory. I just took it one day at a time and tried to not push myself too hard, as we’re not even halfway through the season yet. I was really happy with how much my lap times improved from Saturday to Sunday, given that I’m eight days out from having had my collarbone pinned back together. It also was great to have a team of Marine vets helping me out this weekend, and it was a pleasure having Don join the team for this round thanks to Veterans Empowered through Motorsports. He did a great job and I’m looking forward to having more fellow Marine veterans be part of the team in the future. I think what the team and I accomplished this weekend shows what Marine vets are capable of!”
More, from a press release issued by Travis Wyman Racing:
Wyman scores podium, remains atop Superbike Cup standings at conclusion of MotoAmerica Superbikes at the Ridge
BMW rider perseveres through bike troubles, 100-degree temperatures to remain in contention for two MotoAmerica titles at Ridge Motorsports Park
Travis Wyman (10). Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy Travis Wyman Racing.
SHELTON, Wash. — There were plenty of setbacks for the Travis Wyman Racing BMW team at MotoAmerica’s Superbikes at the Ridge, yet the team found ways to overcome several technical problems and the brutally hot conditions to score a podium finish and remain atop the Superbike Cup standings.
The Las Vegas rider endured a rear tire problem and engine overheating issues with his BMW S 1000 RR on Saturday but finished the June 25-27 event at The Ridge Motorsports Park with a third place in Sunday’s Stock 1000 race and second-best finish among the Superbike Cup riders in Sunday’s Superbike race.
Wyman left The Ridge with a six-point lead in the MotoAmerica Superbike Cup points standings and is fourth in the battle for the Stock 1000 title.
Wyman and the other top four riders in the Superbike Cup practiced and qualified with the Superbike Class at The Ridge round. Wyman posted a best time of 1:44.120 in Superbike practice on Friday, which was the second-fastest time among the Superbike Cup riders and the 11th-best time when compared to the Superbike riders. Later Friday, Wyman finished the day’s qualifying session 10th with a time of 1:44.133.
Qualifying concluded Saturday morning with Wyman securing second on the weekend’s Stock 1000 starting grid with a lap time of 1:42.881.
The first of four races Wyman took part in — in searing 100 degree or higher temperatures — was Saturday’s Stock 1000 race. After getting a mediocre start, Wyman recovered to finish the first lap in fourth place. However, a problem with his rear tire affected his BMW’s handling and its ability to get good drive out of corners. After a near-highside as he exited the track’s last turn, Wyman dropped as low as eighth in the running order. He moved up one position on Lap 8 but had to settle for a seventh-place finish while running lap times about a second slower than the race leaders.
In the Saturday Superbike race, Wyman’s fast pace was brought to a halt by a problem with his motorcycle’s cooling system. Starting from 12th, Wyman had worked his way up to ninth place in two laps but had to retire from the race on Lap 4 when water began spraying from his BMW’s catch can.
The team worked on ways to keep Wyman’s BMW running cooler Saturday night, and its efforts proved worthwhile Sunday. In the day’s Stock 1000 race, Wyman recovered from dropping to fifth place at the end of Lap 1 to scoring his third podium finish of the 2021 Stock 1000 season. Later Sunday, Wyman got a good start in the Superbike race and brought his BMW home in 11th place, the second-best finish among the Superbike Cup riders.
The Travis Wyman Racing BMW team has two weeks to freshen up the team’s BMW S 1000 RR before it heads to the next MotoAmerica round, which is slated for July 9-11 at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca in Monterey, Calif.
Travis Wyman / No. 10
“It was a pretty frustrating weekend at The Ridge, but the good results I got on Sunday — especially the podium in Stock 1000 — made the struggle worthwhile. I’ve taught at racetracks around the world and can say the conditions were some of the hottest I’ve endured in my racing career. My crew chief, Steve Weir, and mechanic, Alex Torres, did an outstanding job this weekend, and we wouldn’t have found the success we did on Sunday without the hard work they put in Saturday night. I owe a big thank you to Steve Korol of Evol Technology LLC for being my team’s title sponsor for the Ridge, and it’s great to be nearing the halfway point of the season and still be in the mix for two class titles. There’s still a lot of racing left to go this year, and what we overcame here at the Ridge gives the team a lot of positive momentum heading into the next round at Laguna Seca.”
More, from a press release issued by BARTCON Racing:
BARTCON Racing couldn’t be prouder of 14-year-old Kayla Yaakov, who just started her professional career in the MotoAmerica STG Junior Cup series this past weekend on board her BARTCON Racing/Coastal Kawasaki Ninja 400.
Kayla Yaakov (31) in action at Ridge Motorsports Park. Photo courtesy BARTCON Racing.
Unfortunately, Kayla had a slow start, crashing in free practice which left her with a slight shoulder injury. She battled on regardless and qualified 13th, earning her a spot on the fifth row of the grid.
Kayla took ninth in her debut in Race One followed by an excellent sixth in Race Two, which was all the more impressive considering the race was run in blistering 100-degree ambient temperatures.
Big thanks to all the BARTCON Racing/Kayla fans that swung by the paddock to wish her the best of luck and a bigger thanks to our sponsors who without their support we would not be able to make this season possible. Coastal Neurosurgery & Spine, JTS Surgical, Triple Strong Racing, Forma Boots USA, Orient Express, K-Tech Suspension, Bud Lubricants, Spears Racing, Rage Grafix.
We are all very excited for our next round in less than two weeks at Laguna Seca and hope to see all our West Coast friends, family and fans there cheering on Kayla, Dominic Doyle, and Ryne Snooks.
ROYAL ENFIELD CELEBRATES FIRST-EVER HALF-MILE VICTORY
Lewis wins in commanding fashion at the Lima Half-Mile
Milwaukee, Wis (Tuesday, June 29, 2021) – Round seven of the 2021 Progressive American Flat Track Championship proved to be a historic moment for Royal Enfield, as Johnny Lewis and the Moto Anatomy x Royal Enfield Team were the class of the field on Saturday evening at the Allen County Fairgrounds in Lima, Ohio. The win marked the team’s first victory since the Daytona I Short Track, and the first-ever Half-Mile win for Royal Enfield and the Moto Anatomy x Royal Enfield Team.
Johnny Lewis (center) on the podium with Cory Texter (right) at the Lima Half-Mile. Photo courtesy Royal Enfield North America.
“This weekend gave us the opportunity to showcase what the Royal Enfield Twins FT is capable of,” said Moto Anatomy x Royal Enfield rider Johnny Lewis. “The team has been working extremely hard every time out to improve the motorcycle and this result reflects all the effort we’ve put into the program. We couldn’t be happier with this achievement. Thank you to Royal Enfield, the team and all our supporters for backing us.”
Lewis got out to a decent start in the main event but had to work his way into the lead, which took him less than a minute to do. From there, Lewis simply dominated the field, leaving the competition to battle over second as he stretched his lead. A red flag (due to a downed rider) with less than two minutes remaining prompted a restart, and once again Lewis had to make some passes to get out front, but he simply powered his Royal Enfield Twins FT around the outside, reclaiming the lead and taking the checkered flag.
Johnny Lewis’ win at Lima, Ohio comes after a steady season of progress with the Moto Anatomy x Royal Enfield Team. Following some flashes of brilliance aboard the Twins FT in the 2021 season, Lewis and the team knew they had the engine to be competitive, and worked on fine-tuning the chassis with their focus specifically on the Half-Mile. The classic venue at Lima, Ohio—the only cushion Half-Mile on the American Flat Track schedule—was the perfect stage for this significant victory for Royal Enfield.
“This historic win came at the right moment for the team, for Johnny and Royal Enfield,” said Breeann Poland, Marketing and Communications Lead – Royal Enfield Americas. “We started the season with a new crew led by David Lloyd and have been looking for our first win at a Half-Mile. We look forward to continuing our development and seeing Johnny progress even more throughout the 2021 American Flat Track season.”
Lewis and the Moto Anatomy X Royal Enfield team will be back in action on Saturday, July 24, at the Port Royale Half-Mile in New York. They will be joined by the Royal Enfield BUILD TRAIN RACE (BTR) program as the ladies are looking toward their next exhibition race at the same venue.
About Royal Enfield
The oldest motorcycle company in continuous production in the world, Royal Enfield made its first motorcycle in 1901. A division of Eicher Motors Limited, Royal Enfield has created the mid-size motorcycle segment in India with its unique and distinctive modern classic motorcycles. With its manufacturing base in Chennai, India, Royal Enfield has been able to grow its production rapidly against a surge in demand for its motorcycles. Royal Enfield is a leading player in the global middleweight motorcycle market.
The Moto Anatomy x Royal Enfield team is supported by Harris Performance, SENA, Spectro Oils, Beringer Brakes, Solid Performance, EVS, ODI, Just 1, Tucker, Saddlemen, S&S Cycle, Team Lawant, Quayle Construction and Goon Glass and Rubber.
Royal Enfield North America (RENA) is headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and is developing a growing network of more than 125 dealers in North America, including the contiguous U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico. RENA currently offers the all-new Meteor 350, Himalayan and the 650 Twins (INT 650 and Continental GT 650) motorcycles, along with a range of Genuine Motorcycle Accessories and apparel.
More, from a press release issued by Indian Motorcycle:
INDIAN MOTORCYCLE FACTORY RIDER BRIAR BAUMAN TAKES FIRST PLACE IN FRONT OF A SOLD-OUT CROWD AT LIMA HALF-MILE
Bauman rings in his 18th career win, and second Lima Half-Mile victory during the Mission SuperTwins
Briar Bauman (1). Photo courtesy Indian Motorcycle.
LIMA, Ohio – Indian Motorcycle Racing carried out its 2021 American Flat Track (AFT) season Saturday evening under the lights at the Johnny K’s Indian Motorcycle Lima Half-Mile powered by Drag Specialties at the Allen County Fairgrounds. Indian Motorcycle factory rider and two-time Grand National Champion Briar Bauman took first place, solidifying his second win of the 2021 AFT season.
Joining Bauman on the podium were fellow Indian Motorcycle riders Brandon Robinson and Jared Vanderkooi. Robinson, who won last week’s Oklahoma City Mile I, has recorded back-to-back second-place finishes, while Vanderkooi, an Ohio local, secured his third podium of the season.
“This is the same track I secured my first Twins win on back in 2017, so to be able to come in tonight, in front of a sold-out crowd, and take the podium after a dramatic battle is pretty special,” said Bauman. “We knew we were going to have fierce competition, so to have bar-to-bar action and come out on top means a lot to our team and gives us a boost of confidence as we look to the second half of the season.”
The pure muscle win at the Lima Half-Mile sets Bauman at the top of the leaderboard with 139 points. Robinson trails closely with 127 points, while Jared Mees sits in third with 116. Through seven races, the three riders find themselves with two wins a piece, while Bauman has recorded six total podium finishes.
The season is sure to be an exciting journey to follow as Robinson and Bauman continue to duke it out for the coveted position atop the leaderboard. The 2021 AFT season will continue Saturday, July 17, at the Duquoin mile. For more information on Indian Motorcycle Racing, visit IndianMotorcycle.com and follow along on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
ABOUT INDIAN MOTORCYCLE®
Indian Motorcycle is America’s First Motorcycle Company®. Founded in 1901, Indian Motorcycle has won the hearts of motorcyclists around the world and earned distinction as one of America’s most legendary and iconic brands through unrivaled racing dominance, engineering prowess and countless innovations and industry firsts. Today that heritage and passion is reignited under new brand stewardship. To learn more, please visit www.indianmotorcycle.com.
BARNES CHARGES TO BAGGER RACING LEAGUE WIN ON HARLEY-DAVIDSON ROAD GLIDE SPECIAL
H-D Racers 1-3 in Premier Bagger class; H-D Racer Carlson wins Hooligan GP and Pro Stock GP
MILWAUKEE (June 28, 2021) – Hoban Brothers Racing/DTF Performance rider Michael Barnes rode a race-prepared Harley-Davidson® Road Glide® Special motorcycle to victory in the inaugural Bagger Racing League (BRL) road race event on June 27 at Utah Motorsports Campus in Grantsville, Utah. Competing in the main event Premier Bagger class, Barnes beat S&S/Indian Motorcycles rider Tyler O’Hara to the finish line by 0.356 seconds. Cory West was third on the Saddlemen Racing/Slyfox Performance Harley-Davidson Road Glide Special. In BRL support classes, Benny Carlson won both the Hooligan GP (Suburban Motors Harley-Davidson XR1200) and Pro Stock GP (Suicide Machine Company Harley-Davidson Road Glide) races.
“This win is a confidence booster for myself and the team,” said Barnes. “We didn’t think we were that far off at the MotoAmerica King of the Baggers race at Road America. For this race we had a different front end, different shocks, different geometry. We made some smart decisions, and they have all made the bike better. That’s a testament to the knowledge of this team. Setting up a Road Glide for road racing has been a steep learning curve, not just for me riding it but everyone involved. We’ve made leaps and bounds at every test and every event, so after disappointing results earlier this season it’s a great reward to get this win.”
Barnes was the top qualifier for the BRL event, took the holeshot, and led O’Hara for the entire 8-lap race distance.
“Tyler and I have raced each other a lot over the years,” said Barnes. “He was right there the whole time. At the start, I could feel him try a line up the inside. And couple times I ran wide due to shifting issues, but he wasn’t able to take advantage. I basically got the holeshot and tried to keep him at bay.”
The Bagger Racing League is a new racing organization promoting road-racing competition for American V-Twin-powered motorcycles. Racing takes place in four classes over a three-day weekend that also includes entertainment including stunt shows.
Bagger Racing League Premier Bagger GP Results:
1. Michael Barnes (Hoban Brothers Racing/DTF Performance Harley-Davidson)
2. Tyler O’Hara (S&S Indian)
3. Cory West (Saddlemen Racing/Slyfox Harley-Davidson)
It’s coming home: WorldSBK heads to where it all began at Donington Park
After a year out in 2020, WorldSBK thunders into the United Kingdom, where there’s a homecoming to be had
The 2021 MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship is shaping up to be a vintage year, as we roll into the Great British countryside for round four of the season at Donington Park. With sporting fever in the air across the whole world as summer kicks in, WorldSBK returns to its birthplace of Donington Park, where it all started back on a cold April Sunday in 1988. 31 years later and the Championship is red hot, with home-hero Jonathan Rea (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK) leading an in-form Toprak Razgatlioglu (Pata Yamaha with BRIXX WorldSBK) by 20 points, but that could all change in what is set to be, as ever, an unpredictable UK Round.
The man in the best form coming into the Prosecco DOC UK Round is Toprak Razgatlioglu, having taken his first 2021 victory last time out, the latest in a string of six consecutive podiums that have consisted of four second places, one third and now a victory. He also returns to a happy hunting ground at Donington Park, where he achieved a career-first WorldSBK podium by beating Jonathan Rea in 2018 on the final lap of Race 2. In 2019, they also went head-to-head in the closing stages; is another duel on the cards? Teammate Andrea Locatelli makes his racing debut at Donington Park this weekend and will hope for a solid weekend after visiting the track two week before.
Aiming to bounce back and strike with victory on home soil, Jonathan Rea took all three races at Donington Park in 2019. Whilst the last three races at the track may well have been good to the reigning six-time World Champion, the last three races of recent times were more of a challenge. Three third places at Misano left Rea wanting more, but when this is a ‘bad’ day at the office, you know his monumental consistency is strong. He aims to be back on the top step at Donington Park for a sixth time, whilst teammate Alex Lowes hasn’t ridden Donington Park on a Kawasaki.
After a difficult Misano where he couldn’t crack the front-running pace, Scott Redding (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) needs a resurgence at Donington Park, the circuit where he took a first ever World Championship win at back in 2008’s 125cc World Championship GP. Three fourth places at Misano leaves Redding 45 points back in the title race, whilst on the other side of the garage, Michael Ruben Rinaldi was in sensational form at Misano, with two wins and a second, something he hopes will act as a key change in 2021 after a difficult first two rounds. Two 12th places in 2019 for Rinaldi at Donington Park, something he should improve on this weekend.
5 key stats ahead of the Prosecco DOC UK Round
3 – There are three riders in the current field who won a WorldSBK race at Donington: Tom Sykes (9), Jonathan Rea (5), Michael van der Mark (2).
7 – Tom Sykes is the record holder for Donington Superpoles: seven, and he is the only active rider who started from pole here.
23 – British riders have won 23 races here: in 2018 Michael van der Mark stopped a sequence of 11 wins by British riders, but Rea in 2019 put Great Britain back on top winning all three races.
2011 – The last race without a Kawasaki rider on the Donington podium was back in 2011.
54 – Ducati have built up 54 podium finishes in the 55 races held so far at Donington. Kawasaki are second-best with 45.
Dylan Code (34) talks tires, temperatures, and grip in this episode of Stuman Rides. Image courtesy Stuman Rides.
Stuart “Stuman” Smith has been road racing motorcycles at the club level in southern California for about 20 years. He has won several class championships racing with WSMC at Willow Springs and CVMA at Chuckwalla Valley Raceway. Stuart is a former lap record holder at Willow Springs on both the “Big Track” and “The Streets”. He has also raced motocross, supermoto, minimoto, and downhill mountain bikes.
Stuart has been an active riding coach for about 18 years. He started his career working for The California Superbike School as a full-time coach and reached their highest level of certification (Class III). Stuart is currently a USMCA Certified Sportbike Coach and is currently coaching for SoCal Supermoto, Racer’s Edge and working with private clients. Stuart is also the new racer school instructor for CVMA at Chuckwalla Valley Raceway.
Leon Haslam (91) in action earlier this season at Jerez. Photo courtesy Team HRC.
Leon Haslam prepares for Donington home round, also a favourite of Alvaro Bautista
Team HRC riders Leon Haslam and Alvaro Bautista are set to race at Donington Park (UK) this weekend, one of their favourite venues and one that also has a special place in the hearts of the WorldSBK fans.
Last time out, the team worked hard at the Misano World Circuit, completing the third championship round with a best result of sixth for Alvaro Bautista in race 1. Leon Haslam’s weekend was hindered by a few small issues that he is confident he can iron out in time for his home round.
There was no UK SBK event last year owing to the Covid-19 pandemic, but both Bautista and Haslam reached the podium during the 2019 event at Donington Park. The British event is often characterised by mixed or wet weather, conditions in which both the riders are comfortable, Leon having in fact scored one of his 2019 podium-finishes in the rain (Superpole Race).
The Donington Park circuit, located in the county of Leicestershire in England, measures 4.023 km in length and is one of the historic WorldSBK tracks, having hosted the championship’s very first race in fact, back in 1988. It is the oldest British track still in operation today.
“Donington is a very nice track, one of my favourites when we went there with the 125cc and 250cc championships in fact. When I returned two years ago with the Superbike I found it more challenging due to the type of bike, but still very enjoyable. I especially like the mixed section of the track. I am also very happy to be back knowing that there will be fans in the grandstands because there is so much love and support for the sport and for Superbike here in the UK. As far as the set-up is concerned, we don’t have any reference points for this track, so we’ll start from a basic set-up and try to improve from there. In testing at Navarra we tried some electronic things that will probably help us in this race and let’s hope the weather is good and we can work well all weekend, never a given in England. As a team, we are really keen to take steps forward and move closer to the front, so we look forward to Donington with optimism and a determination to do well.”
Leon Haslam 91
“We didn’t race at Donington last year so it’s especially nice to be heading there again now. It’s my home circuit and so I’m really looking forward to it of course, particularly as we’ll have the support of some local fans. We completed a test after the Misano race weekend and they never stop working back in Japan, so we hope we can hit the ground running at Donington and fight for the kind of results we know we can achieve.”
The FIM Superbike World Championship is heading to Donington Park this coming weekend. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Home Round For Lowes And Rea
Jonathan Rea and Alex Lowes will race at home for the first time since 2019 when the FIM Superbike World Championship arrives at Donington Park for round four of the current season. The action will take place between 2 and 4 July in front of a limited number of fans each day.
The Covid-19 pandemic meant there was no British round last season but this year Jonathan and Alex will have the chance to race at a British circuit again. WorldSBK itself was born at Donington Park way back in 1988 and there can be no more appropriate circuit to host the return to race action in the UK than where it all began.
The 4.023km long circuit in the very heart of the English Midlands has witnessed five WorldSBK race wins for Rea in the past, four of them on Kawasaki machinery. Through the years Kawasaki riders have scored 18 WorldSBK Race wins at Donington, more than any other single manufacturer. The last time WorldSBK raced there Rea won all three Donington races.
After three rounds of the championship on the new Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10RR Rea leads by 20 points, with Lowes fourth overall. Lowes scored three podium finishes during the opening round, while six-times champion Rea has taken nine podiums in nine 2021 season races, including four race wins.
Since the most recent race weekend, at Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli in mid-June, Rea and Lowes have tested at the all-new WorldSBK venue of Navarra in Spain. They approach Donington well-prepared ready to put on the best possible show for the small number of enthusiastic fans allowed into Donington this weekend.
Both Jonathan and Alex see their home round as an ideal base from which to build even more momentum to take forward into what is scheduled to be the remainder of a long 13-round/39 race season.
The layout of Donington features two strongly-contrasting sections. The first is almost exclusively compromised of medium-to-fast curves and several changes of elevation. The final Melbourne Loop section features hard braking and acceleration zones with one chicane, one right hand hairpin and one left hand hairpin leading onto the short 550m start/finish straight. Overall bike set-up is, by necessity, a balance between optimum performance in the faster and slower sections.
Unusually, there will be no WorldSSP races at Donington, nor a round of the WorldSSP300 championship. Both those classes will rejoin the WorldSBK calendar at Assen in the Netherlands between July 23-25.
Jonathan Rea (1). Photo courtesy Kawasaki.
Jonathan Rea, stated: “I am really excited to go to Donington because we missed it last year. We had a great weekend there in 2019 and it is a circuit that I really enjoy riding at. From past experience it is also a good track for the Ninja ZX-10RR so I am excited to get the new and improved 2021 model there. Our first home race in two years and we will have some fans trackside, which is nice, although it would have been good to have a packed Donington. There will be a bit of atmosphere there and I am looking froward to it. I hope to make a really strong weekend and work from Friday morning to understand the tyre options Pirelli has brought, and we will continue to fine-tune our bike to be ready for the races. At the recent Navarra test we tried some chassis options and we have a great understanding of the working window of the bike, so we have options should we face some limitations. I feel we really understood how we could get the bike to turn better and that will help us in some sections at Donington.”
Alex Lowes (22). Photo courtesy Dorna WorldSBK Press Office.
Alex Lowes, stated: “It is great that we are heading back to the UK round of WorldSBK after missing it last year because of the Covid-19 situation. There will not be as many fans as we would like, due to the limitations that have been put in place, but it will be great to be riding in front of the British fans again. Coming up through the BSB series I feel a really good and close relationship with the fans here. That is going to be one of the main things that is going to be really enjoyable. The second thing is that I like the track, it has always been a fun track for me, and I have taken some good results there. On top of that the Kawasaki – looking back – has always gone quite well there. This will be my first time trying the Ninja ZX-10RR at Donington and I am excited about it. It is a track that looks like it works well for the bike. Kawasaki has won plenty of races there and the target for me is to get back on the podium. We had solid second and third rounds of the championship, but maybe the higher temperatures and some track layouts did not quite suit the bike quite as well as some others. So, the target is clear for this weekend. Get back on the podium like we started the year in Aragon and enjoy the whole weekend in front of the home fans.”
Lucas Mahias (Kawasaki Puccetti Racing) and Isaac Vinales (Orelac Racing VerdNatura Kawasaki) will ride their Ninja ZX-10RR machines for the first time at Donington, in what is a rookie WorldSBK season for both former WorldSSP riders. Thus far Mahias is the highest-ranked Kawasaki rider in the Independent Riders’ championship standings, in fourth place. He is 13th in the overall championship table. Vinales is 19th overall.
Loris Cresson (TPR Outdo Kawasaki) will take on Donington for the first time in his new role as full-time WorldSBK rider. Local rider Luke Mossey will ride the second TPR Outdo Kawasaki at his home circuit of Donington, as he replaces the outgoing Samuele Cavalieri for this round.
More, from a press release issued by Pata Yamaha:
Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK Hope for Home Advantage at Donington Park
Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK riders Toprak Razgatlıoğlu and Andrea Locatelli are eagerly looking forward to the fourth round of the 2021 FIM Superbike World Championship at Donington Park, near Derby in the United Kingdom, this weekend from 2-4 July.
Following success at Misano with Razgatlıoğlu and the team’s first victory of 2021, the largely UK-based squad are hoping for a repeat of its recent run of podium form. Donington Park was the site of the team’s dominant double win in 2018, which saw the first victory for Yamaha since the manufacturers’ return to WorldSBK competition in 2016.
Razgatlıoğlu also has fond memories of the circuit, having celebrated his first podium in WorldSBK in the runner up position in Race 2 of the same year. The Turkish ace’s personal record on British soil includes two further second-place finishes in 2019 achieved before he made the switch to Yamaha.
Teammate Locatelli will race for the first time at Donington Park this weekend, having missed the opportunity to tackle the unique circuit during his title-winning season in the FIM Supersport World Championship category due to the pandemic. The 24-year-old welcomed the opportunity to become familiar with the undulating layout during a training day, on a standard Yamaha R1, earlier this month with British Superbike rider Tarran Mackenzie on hand from the McAMS Yamaha team to offer advice.
The first opportunity for both riders to turn a wheel in anger will come on Friday morning with Free Practice 1 at 10:30 (UTC+1), followed by Free Practice 2 at 15:00, with mixed weather conditions expected over the weekend.
Toprak Razgatlioglu (54). Photo courtesy Yamaha.
Toprak Razgatlıoğlu
“Donington Park is a great track! Normally I like it a lot as it is really fast and flowing, I think it is my favourite track, but the last time we raced there was 2019. I am excited because this weekend will be the first time with the R1 WorldSBK at Donington. I remember in 2018 that Michael won both races with the Yamaha, so this year of course I want to be fighting again for the win. We will see, I’ll say it again, I am really excited! A lot can happen and we will see what is possible in the race weekend, but my plan is to fight at the front again and to enjoy the races.”
Andrea Locatelli (55). Photo courtesy Yamaha.
Andrea Locatelli
“I’m excited to ride at Donington – I have only seen it once on a training day with Paul when we rode on standard R1s. It’s been an interesting couple of weeks because we have also had two days of testing at the new track at Navarra. We did a really good job with the team and from this I have gained more confidence working on the base setting of the R1 WorldSBK for my riding style. The feeling is improving every time, which is very important. For sure, Friday will not be easy as I will need to learn the track with the full superbike and find the feeling on this circuit as well. Every Friday, it’s not easy for us but I am confident we will arrive a little more ready following the Navarra test. We will try to take another good step and have a good result in Donington, I think it is possible!”
More, from a press release issued by BMW Motorrad Motorsport:
Donington Park is the next stop for BMW Motorrad Motorsport in the WorldSBK.
Fourth round of the season in the FIM Superbike World Championship 2021.
Historic circuit in the heart of England.
BMW Motorrad Motorsport using time between races for testing at Navarra, Spain.
Munich. Donington Park (GBR) is the next stop for BMW Motorrad Motorsport in the FIM Superbike World Championship. The fourth round of the 2021 WorldSBK season will take place this coming weekend (2nd to 4th July) at the historic circuit in the heart of England. The BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team will once again be competing with riders Michael van der Mark (NED) and Tom Sykes (GBR), as well as Eugene Laverty (IRL) and Jonas Folger (GER) for the BMW satellite teams RC Squadra Corse and Bonovo MGM Racing.
After the third round at Misano (ITA), WorldSBK took a short break with no races taking place over two weekends. BMW Motorrad Motorsport used that time for two days of testing at Navarra (ESP). The Spanish circuit has been added to the calendar this year and will host the seventh race event of the season from 20th to 22nd August. The tests provided an opportunity to continue development of the new BMW M 1000 RR, while simultaneously becoming familiar with the characteristics of the circuit.
The focus now switches to the upcoming weekend at Donington Park. The very first WorldSBK race took place on this track in April 1988. Donington has been a fixture on the calendar since then, even though the event had to be cancelled last year due to the Coronavirus pandemic.
Quotes ahead of the Donington round.
Marc Bongers, BMW Motorrad Motorsport Director: “The first three events of the season showed us what areas we need to work on with our new BMW M 1000 RR, and we did that during testing at Navarra, among other things. We tried out and evaluated a few new parts in the chassis area, for example. Now we are looking forward to the race weekend at Donington Park. That is a traditional, old-school circuit and the layout has a really challenging mix of everything. There are fast, fluid sections as well as hairpin bends, climbs and slopes. We will see how well our M RR copes with this track. We are excited to see what the weather will be like at the weekend, as that can always be an unpredictable factor at Donington.”
Shaun Muir, Team Principal BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team: “We’re looking forward to coming to the UK round of the World Superbike Championship. The Navarra test was quite conclusive for us. We have a better direction with the chassis after the chassis work both Tom and Michael have done. Hopefully we can transfer some of that into the Donington event. The forecast for the Donington event is quite changeable. Friday is fair weather but Saturday and Sunday it looks like we have some wet weather appearing just right during the mid-days. So we could be racing in changeable conditions with potential pit stops so we need to be ready for that eventuality. Overall as a team, we are in a good position, disappointed from Misano for sure, but we need to put things right for Donington and hopefully we can do just this.”
Michael van der Mark (60). Photo courtesy BMW Motorrad Motorsport.
Michael van der Mark, BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team: “It was good to have a test at Navarra, not only as we race there later this year, but also as we had faced some problems at Misano and BMW responded very quick so we had some new parts to Navarra test. I was happy with the test; it was a step in the right direction but of course you have to see if it also works on a different track but luckily we have Donington this weekend. Donington is fantastic; I really love these old-school circuits. I had some good results there in the past and I love the circuit and the history and after missing it last year, it is good to go back there now. Regarding the characteristics, for me the first part is the best; it is fast and flowing and a really exciting section of the track. The last part does not really fit to that but there you have some really good overtaking opportunities so the circuit is exciting in two very different ways.”
Tom Sykes (66). Photo courtesy BMW Motorrad Motorsport.
Tom Sykes, BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team: “For me, the Navarra test was good for a number of reasons. First and foremost it was to continue the development of the new BMW M 1000 RR. We had some items that we needed to confirm there and we were able to do that. Then it was great to learn the circuit and get some data there for when we go back in August for the races. Now I am obviously looking forward to my home race at Donington. I’ve had a lot of success there in the past and I really hope that we can find the set-up to enable me to be more consistent and stronger over the race weekend. We need to work on finding those last little items now to put us in that position. The new M RR has had a big step in terms of engine and braking performance and quite a number of other things so we just need to find the last part of the jigsaw so we can use all of this. I am looking forward to going there and fingers crossed we can have some good British weather. But we take what we get and try to get a strong result.”
Eugene Laverty (50). Photo courtesy BMW Motorrad Motorsport.
Eugene Laverty, RC Squadra Corse: “The three-week break has given me a chance to recover fully from my Misano crash. I feel fit and ready to get back in the mix. The majority of the Donington circuit has a flowing nature and that suits the BMW M 1000 RR well. That said, we will continue to work on our weak area of braking because that’s where the races are often decided at Donington Park. Three hard braking areas finish the lap and that will be the main focus of our work during Friday practice in order to be ready for the races.”
Jonas Folger (94). Photo courtesy BMW Motorrad Motorsport.
Jonas Folger, Bonovo MGM Racing: “I am already looking forward to Donington, even though it has been a while since I was there last – 13 years. As far as I can remember, it is a cool track. Donington is a real classic on the racing calendar. I hope that we can take another step forward after testing at Navarra and that we can improve.”
Matt Smith won the NHRA Pro Stock National in Norwalk, Ohio, on a Buell. Photo courtesy NHRA.
Matt Smith blasts down the strip with his Buell® taking the winner’s circle
Matt’s second victory this season
[Norwalk, Ohio.]: On Sunday June 27, 2021, Matt Smith blasted past the competition on his Buell® at the NHRA Summit, at Summit Racing Equipment Motorsports Park, in Norwalk, Ohio.
Sunday’s competition was fierce in the Pro Stock motorcycle class with Steve Johnson burning rubber and taking the lead in the previous two races. However, Smith turned it up a notch, dialed in and rode his Buell® into the winner’s circle.
Smith now holds 28 victories in his career, two of which he won this season.
Steve Laham, Chief Product Officer at Buell Motorcycles said, “First, the entire Buell family wants to send our prayers out to fellow Pro Stock Motorcycle Racer Kelly Clontz and to long time veteran Top Fuel Driver Luigi Novelli, we hope to see them back on the track soon. Speaking of the track, congratulations to Matt Smith as he blasted his Buell in the outstanding tradition of Buell performance, he set top speed of the event in his final winning round at over 200mph. Thank you once again to Matt Smith and his Buell race team and all the Buell fans, Buell is Back.”
About Buell: Buell is proud to be part of the NHRA family and the exciting events they hold. We look forward to seeing more familiar faces at more upcoming events, both in the stands and on the track. Experience American Performance on a Buell.
Visit the Buell website for more information at:www.BuellMotorcycle.com.
More, from another press release issued by Buell:
Logan Cipala Climbs to the Top with Buell® for Another Win
Riding the 1190HCR Buell® brings another win for Logan
[Columbus, Mon.]: On June 26, 2021, Nitro National Pro Hillclimb held races for multiple classes with Logan Cipala competing in the 450, Xclimb, 700, and the Open class. In the open class, Cipala competed on the Buell® 1190HCR.
Saturday’s competition was fierce in the open class with the top players being Harold Waddell on a [Suzuki] GSX-1340, Jake Anstett on a KTM1190, and Cipala on the Buell 1190HCR.
“Being the first trip to this event on the new bike was a little nerve wracking but the new chassis and Buell motor combination worked incredibly well,” said Logan Cipala. “Qualifying on Friday I took second and left my setup unchanged going into the finals. However, Saturday the hill dried up quite a bit, but my IRC M5B Evo tires helped keep the power to the ground.”
Even with Cipala’s nerves on edge he powered through the hillclimb, trampling the competition for another win on his Buell 1190HCR.
“Congratulations from the Buell family to the Cipala’s and especially Logan on taking first place on his Buell 1190HCR,” said Steve Laham, Chief Product Officer at Buell Motorcycle. “I was on my way home from the NHRA race in Norwalk Ohio on Saturday evening and I was thinking how special it would be to win at NHRA and at the Nitro nationals, then late in the evening the text came that Logan flew his Buell into first place for the win.”
Visit the Buell website for more information at: www.BuellMotorcycle.com.
The new lighter, more powerful, more efficient, water-cooled electric motor co-engineered by Energica and Mavel. Photo courtesy Energica Motor Company.
From the Made in Italy skills of Energica Motor Company S.p.A. and Mavel is born EMCE, the new electric motor of Energica motorcycles
Energica presents EMCE, the new electric motor created in co-engineering with the Italian company Mavel.
The name of the new EMCE motor is the acronym of Energica Mavel Co-Engineering and was born as a direct expression of the mentality of the Modenese motorcycle manufacturer, which every year focuses on technological innovation and the improvement of already high technological performance.
“The introduction on the market of the new EMCE engine was scheduled for release in 2022, but following the difficulties of our supply chain – due to the global pandemic situation – we decided to anticipate this timing and instead, in just 6 months we have developed this co-engineering with Mavel, into our current model year production.” Says Giampiero Testoni, CTO of Energica Motor Company S.p.A.
Thanks to the new EMCE motor, peak power increases to 126 kW at 8,500 rpm and with a liquid-cooling method that guarantees greater performance, Energica motorcycles will now be lighter by 10 kg, with a relative increase in range of 5-10% according to riding style.
Inside the EMCE motor, we therefore find all the passion of the Motor Valley and the renowned skills behind the words “Made in Italy”.
Michael Barnes (third from left) and the Hoban Brothers Racing/ DTF Performance team won the Bagger Racing League premier Bagger GP. Photo by Derek Cloutier/Wicked Windage Photography, courtesy Harley-Davidson.
More, from a press release issued by Pirelli:
Pirelli Takes the Top Two Positions at Utah Motorsports Complex Round of Bagger Racing League
Michael Barnes and Tyler O’Hara Rely on the Performance of Pirelli’s DIABLO Superbike Range in the Bagger GP Class
Michael Barnes (34) and Tyler O’Hara (29) gave Pirelli a 1-2 finish in the Bagger Racing League Bagger GP race at Utah Motorsports Campus. Photo by CaliPhotography.com, courtesy Pirelli.
GRANTSVILLE, Utah (June 30, 2021) – Pirelli Tire North America showed its commitment to racing across all spectrums by dominating the competition in both the Bagger Racing League BAGGER GP Class and the PRO STOCK BAGGER Class at Utah Motorsports Complex on Sunday, June 27. Pirelli controlled the top two positions in BAGGER GP with Michael Barnes racing to victory aboard a Harley Davidson and Indian Motorcycle rider Tyler O’Hara finishing a close second. Both Barnes and O’Hara relied on the performance of Pirelli’s DIABLO Superbike range. In PRO STOCK BAGGER, Benny Carlson rode his Sly Fox-backed Harley Davidson to the top step of the podium with Pirelli shod Oleg Pianykh taking second, also using the DIABLO Superbike Range of tires.
“The weekend off started really good and I was able to get pole position,” said Barnes. “I was fast right out of the gate and the switch over to the DIABLO Superbike SCX rear helped us find even more speed on the racetrack. It got hotter heading into the main race, but it seemed to help the tire become even more consistent and proved to be no issue. Along with Oscar’s [Solis] help, we continued to make improvements all weekend long and did a lot of little fine-tuning with air pressure. It was an incredible weekend!”
Barnes, who was able to control the pace out front, used a 125/70-17 DIABLO Superbike SC1 front tire paired with a 200/65-17 DIABLO Superbike SCX rear. O’Hara opted for a 120/70-17 DIABLO Superbike SC2 front and a 190/60-17 DIABLO Superbike SCX rear to keep the pressure on Barnes for the majority of the race.
“That was the fastest I’ve ever gone on my Indian Challenger,” said O’Hara. “The new Pirelli DIABLO Superbike SCX is next level. My tires provided me with the most lean angle and edge grip I’ve ever had in bagger racing. Thank you, Pirelli, for the support!”
O’Hara managed to clock the fastest lap time of the race and of any rider throughout the weekend with a 1:38.550. Barnes recorded a best lap time of 1:38.635. The duo finished with more than 30-seconds to spare over their nearest competitor.
“What Pirelli riders were able to accomplish this weekend was nothing short of amazing,” said Oscar Solis, senior racing manager, Pirelli. “Bagger racing is something that we’ve only begun to scratch the surface with and it’s really satisfying to have this kind of success right away. Pirelli’s commitment and dedication to racing are second to none and I believe that this weekend just further showed when racers have a choice, they choose Pirelli. Congratulations to Michael [Barnes] and Tyler [O’Hara] on their great rides!”
Pirelli continues to set the bar in roadracing throughout North America, and when spec tire rules do not apply, has been the go-to tire choice for racers looking to reach the top step of the podium. Over the weekend, Pirelli took the lion’s share of podium spots, with a total of four riders on the Bagger Racing League’s first podium presentations.
SUZUKI’S KELLY CONTINUES TO DOMINATE SUPERSPORT IN SEARCH OF THE CHAMPIONSHIP
Brea, CA – Suzuki Motor USA and Team Hammer racked up two wins and five podiums as the 2021 MotoAmerica AMA/FIM North American Road Racing Championship completed a scorching weekend of race action at Ridge Motorsports Park in Shelton, Washington.
Sean Dylan Kelly (40) delivered a dominant performance with two Supersport victories. Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy Suzuki Motor USA.
MotoAmerica Supersport title leader Sean Dylan Kelly and his M4 ECSTAR Suzuki GSX-R600 were more than up to the challenge presented by his competition and the relentless triple-digit temperatures.
‘SDK’ notched up another pole and then translated his one-lap superiority into a pair of critically important race victories. Sunday’s race followed the same basic pattern as Saturday’s with Kelly controlling from the front while remaining precise and in command despite the application of intense pressure from close behind all the way to the checkered flag.
As a result, the Floridian now boasts a 21-point championship advantage on the strength of the five-race wins he’s already earned in 2021.
“That was definitely a tough race… as if yesterday wasn’t tough enough!” Kelly said. “I went out and tried my absolute best and gave my all. It was a great weekend. We got pole again, set the track record, and won both races. We have to be proud of the job we’re doing. This feels amazing, but we just have to keep chipping away and keep our feet on the ground. Huge thank you to my M4 ECSTAR Suzuki team.”
Kelly was joined on the podium on both days by Salvadoran Kevin Olmedo aboard his Team Hammer-built Altus Motorsports Suzuki GSX-R600.
Sam Lochoff (44) earned two solid fourth place finishes on his Suzuki GSX-R600. Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy Suzuki Motor USA.
SDK’s M4 ECSTAR Suzuki teammate Sam Lochoff logged a pair of fourths to add to his impressive rookie MotoAmerica Supersport campaign. As good as that was, the South African came painfully close to scoring a second-career Supersport podium on Sunday, holding down third position until a last-lap off-track excursion opened the door for Olmedo. Lochoff now sits in third place in the Supersport championship points standings.
Cam Petersen (45) earned an impressive third straight Superbike podium finish on his GSX-R1000. Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy Suzuki Motor USA.
Outside of Cameron Petersen adding a third-consecutive MotoAmerica Superbike podium on Saturday, the weekend was one to learn and move on from in the premier class category.
Petersen was solidly positioned to continue his podium streak to four on Sunday before a fluke occurrence, a rear wheel speed sensor failure, forced him to slow and eventually accept sixth position.
Bobby Fong (50) raced hard in tough conditions and is looking forward to Laguna Seca. Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy Suzuki Motor USA.
The round was even more difficult for Petersen’s M4 ECSTAR Suzuki teammate, Bobby Fong, who struggled after crashing hard and destroying his ‘A’ bike during testing on Thursday. Due to lingering issues from his testing fall, Fong lost feeling in his hand during both races. The gritty Californian pushed to his maximum in the blisteringly hot conditions yet was only rewarded for his efforts with uncharacteristic seventh- and eighth-place results.
“We’re trying,” Fong said. “Obviously, we’re trying our hardest over here. It’s not like I forgot how to ride a motorcycle, and we’re giving it our all. I don’t give up, I don’t quit. All the stars have to be aligned in Superbike racing, and we’re going to give it our best at the next round.”
Wyatt Farris (79) continues to improve with two top-10 finishes in the Stock 1000 class. Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy Suzuki Motor USA.
Olmedo’s Altus Motorsports Suzuki teammate Jake Lewis remains within eight points of the Stock 1000 championship lead after claiming a runner-up result aboard his Team Hammer-built GSX-R1000 on Saturday. Unfortunately, a Sunday DNF more than ate up the title padding he had accumulated, but that padding also sees him still within striking distance despite his Sunday misfortune. M4 ECSTAR Suzuki’s Wyatt Farris finished ninth and eighth in the Stock 1000 races in Washington.
Team Hammer will remain on the West Coast for the upcoming MotoAmerica round at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca in beautiful Monterey, California, on July 9-11.
More, from a press release issued by Altus Motorsports:
MotoAmerica: Round 4 Results from The Ridge Motorsports Park for the Altus Motorsports Tucker Environmental Service Solutions Team
(Shelton, WA) A record-breaking heat wave hit the Pacific Northwest just as the MotoAmerica teams rolled into the pits at Ridge Motorsports Park in Shelton, Washington. With temperatures well over 100 degrees, it was an extremely hot weekend for racing. Dunlop hosted a tire test at “The Ridge” on the Thursday before the event and the Altus team was there to gather data and continue learning the highly technical track.
Honos Superbike & Stock 1000:
After missing the 2020 race season, Jake Lewis arrived in Washington with no experience of the technical Ridge Motorsports Park track. The team struggled to find a good setup during the Dunlop tire on Thursday and the practice and qualifying sessions on Friday. Due to a change by MotoAmerica, the top Stock1000 riders practiced and qualified with the Superbike Class this weekend. On Saturday the team found something and in Jake’s second qualifying session, he ran the fastest Stock1000 lap and secured pole position for those races
In Race 1 of the Stock1000 class, Jake got a great start and pulled a small gap. Unfortunately, in the heat, his rear tire had rotated 180 degrees on the rim making the bike difficult to ride. With two laps to go, he dropped to 2nd and held that spot to the finish. Lewis also got a great start on Sunday but a mechanical on the first lap forced him to retire from the race.
Jake Lewis (85). Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy Altus Motorsports.
“We had a minor mechanical issue at the start of the Sunday Stock1000 race. If it wasn’t for Jake’s experience and quick thinking, it could have been much worse,” said Crew Chief Eric Gray.
Lewis also contested the Superbike class and started both races from 9th. In race 1 he finished in 9th and second in the Superbike Cup. In the Sunday race, he fished in 14th overall and as the 4th Superbike Cup bike.
Supersport 600:
Jaret Nassaney came out with the team for the pre-race weekend tire test. He spent the time dialing in his setup. Jaret started both races from 11th. He finished Saturday in 8th and Sunday in 9th.
“It was a really good weekend. We survived the heat and got some good results. We have a solid base setup for the rest of the season,” said Jaret Nassaney.
Jaret Nassaney (59). Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy Altus Motorsports.
The Ridge was Kevin Olmedo’s second event back with the team after his shoulder surgery. The benefits of the additional recovery time showed from the first session. Kevin was top 4 in every session and qualified 3rd. In the Saturday race, he held third from start to finish. In the Sunday race, he ran in fourth for most of the race but, on the penultimate lap, made a pass to take third. He finished the weekend with two podiums.
“I feel really happy with these two podiums. I will continue to work on the strength in my shoulder and show up even stronger at Laguna,” said Kevin Olmedo
Kevin Olmedo (16). Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy Altus Motorsports.
Junior Cup:
It was Hayden Bicknese’s first trip to Ridge Motorsports Park but he adapted to the technical track quickly. He was P6 after the first qualifying session and ended up qualifying P9. Unfortunately, he was forced to retire from Race 1 with a mechanical issue. In race 2, an unfortunate crash on lap 5 ended Hayden’s weekend with a second DNF.
Hayden Bicknese (69). Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy Altus Motorsports.
“Those were some of the toughest conditions our team has had to work through. The heat was brutal and I appreciate the incredible effort they put in,” said team owner George Nassaney.
The Altus Motorsports team is supported by our great family of sponsors: Altus Motorsports, Environmental Service Solutions, Suzuki Motor USA, Creative Sports Concepts, Tucker Powersports, Schaefer Engineering, Hot Bodies Racing, M4 Exhausts, Vortex EK, Motion Pro, Barnett, VP Lubricants, SBS Brakes, Galfer USA, Moto-D Racing, Bonamici, Ohlins, K-Tech, RS Taichi, Arai, Law Tigers Oklahoma, and Altus Factory Racing.
More, from a press release issued by Jackson Blackmon Racing:
Blackmon Wins Both Twins Cup Races At The Ridge
Jackson Blackmon (18). Photo by Sara Chappell Photography, courtesy Jackson Blackmon Racing.
Jackson Blackmon was looking for redemption this past weekend in Washington after his third, 2nd place finish this season. Jackson Blackmon Racing has been trying different setups with their 2021 Yamaha MT-07 every race since VIR. It seemed that the MotoAmerica test day on Thursday was just what Blackmon needed to get even more comfortable on his Yamaha. The pace was fast all weekend, however for JBR they were able to improve every session to have their best qualifying of the year!
From his second place starting position, Blackmon, in race one, was able to lead the first lap however it wasn’t long before another rider passed him on lap two. In the middle of the race, another rider got to the front and stretched out a slight gap, however Blackmon would stay within striking distance. The leader then crashed out of the race. This would put Blackmon in a battle for the lead. Blackmon executed the pass on the brakes in turn thirteen the penultimate lap to then take his first Twins Cup victory.
In Race 2, Blackmon executed the perfect race, marking his first flag-to-flag victory in Twins Cup leading from start to finish the whole race.
Jackson Blackmon Racing has now had 5 starts and 5 podiums, with two of them being victories and have a lot of momentum rolling into Laguna. Despite Blackmon missing the first round with a broken wrist, he has come back strong putting himself 2nd in the championship standing, just 3 points out of the lead.
Blackmon was quoted as saying, “I was so happy to take my first win and then able to back it up with two in a row. My dad and I have been working so hard on the bike and with the support from Yamaha we have been able to make the machine handle amazing. We have found a happy baseline setup with my MT-07 and I feel that now I can just focus on my riding and racecraft. I would like to say thank you to each and everyone of my and sponsors and supporters for their help this year. Can’t wait to carry the momentum to Laguna!”
Will we see Blackmon on the new R7 soon? Stay tuned!
JBR would like to thank their sponsors: Yamaha Motor USA, Finishline Machine, North East Cycles, Yamalube, Trackday Winner, GP Tech, Wiseco Pistons, HJC Helmets, Roaring Toyz, Millennium Technologies, OneX, Web Cams, SBS Brakes, Vortex, and 64 Degrees.
Don’t miss any of the action. Be sure to follow Jackson on Facebook:@JacksonBlackmon18 and Instagram @JBlackmon_18
Single race sponsorship opportunities are still available for the 2021 season. Contact Jackson [email protected]
More, from a press release issued by Jeremy Cook Racing:
Jeremy Cook Racing features team of U.S. Marines veterans days after Cook’s collarbone surgery for MotoAmerica Superbikes at the Ridge
BMW rider back on the Stock 1000 grid after suffering multiple injuries in crash at previous MotoAmerica round
Jeremy Cook (81). Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy Jeremy Cook Racing.
SHELTON, Wash. – As MotoAmerica veteran Jeremy Cook boarded a plane Thursday heading from his home city of Baltimore, Md., to Seattle, the BMW rider hoped his trip wouldn’t be in vain. Just two weeks after suffering multiple injuries in a crash at MotoAmerica’s Superbikes at Road America and days after having his shattered collarbone surgically repaired, Cook wasn’t sure if he’d be medically cleared to race at MotoAmerica’s round on June 25-27 at Ridge Motorsports Park.
In the end, Cook was cleared to race and led his team of U.S. Marines veterans to two 16th-place finishes in the weekend’s MotoAmerica Stock 1000 races aboard his BMW S 1000 RR. Just making it to the end of each 13-lap race in brutally hot and humid conditions was a challenge for the ailing Cook, but the former Marine saw the mission through and hopes to be back to better form at the next MotoAmerica round in two weeks time.
It was Cook’s first time racing at The Ridge Motorsports Park. He took part in a track day event at the facility in May thanks to support from South Sound Motorcycles — a BMW dealership in Tacoma, Wash.
Cook sat out the test day on Thursday and both Stock 1000 Class on-track sessions on Friday. He finished Saturday morning’s qualifying session in 17th.
Though he was far from 100 percent healthy, Cook finished both of the weekend’s races higher in the running order than he started. Cook started 20nd on the grid for Saturday afternoon’s race, and attrition farther up the field and a late-race pass allowed Cook to finish in 16th — one position away from scoring a championship point. Cook also improved his pace around the 2.47-mile road course on Saturday, posting a best lap time of 1:49.513 in Race 1 compared to the 1:50.933 he laid down in qualifying.
In Sunday’s Stock 1000 contest, Cook started from 21st but had moved up to 18th by the end of Lap 1 and 17th by the end of Lap 5. Cook again made a move late in the race to gain another position and claimed his second 16th-place finish of the weekend. He again improved his pace, lowering his best lap time of the weekend to a 1:48.593.
Cook’s team for the weekend included U.S. Marine veteran and Motorcycle Xcitement rider coach Dakari Harris and U.S. Marine veteran Don Williams – a participant in the Veterans Empowered through Motorsports program.
Cook has two weeks to heal up before he’s due back on the MotoAmerica grid. The next round takes place July 9-11 at the home of the famed “Corkscrew” turn, WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca in Monterey, Calif.
Jeremy Cook / No. 81
“I wasn’t even sure if I could make it through both races with all the injuries I am dealing with right now, and just seeing the checkered flag in both races was like a small victory. I just took it one day at a time and tried to not push myself too hard, as we’re not even halfway through the season yet. I was really happy with how much my lap times improved from Saturday to Sunday, given that I’m eight days out from having had my collarbone pinned back together. It also was great to have a team of Marine vets helping me out this weekend, and it was a pleasure having Don join the team for this round thanks to Veterans Empowered through Motorsports. He did a great job and I’m looking forward to having more fellow Marine veterans be part of the team in the future. I think what the team and I accomplished this weekend shows what Marine vets are capable of!”
More, from a press release issued by Travis Wyman Racing:
Wyman scores podium, remains atop Superbike Cup standings at conclusion of MotoAmerica Superbikes at the Ridge
BMW rider perseveres through bike troubles, 100-degree temperatures to remain in contention for two MotoAmerica titles at Ridge Motorsports Park
Travis Wyman (10). Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy Travis Wyman Racing.
SHELTON, Wash. — There were plenty of setbacks for the Travis Wyman Racing BMW team at MotoAmerica’s Superbikes at the Ridge, yet the team found ways to overcome several technical problems and the brutally hot conditions to score a podium finish and remain atop the Superbike Cup standings.
The Las Vegas rider endured a rear tire problem and engine overheating issues with his BMW S 1000 RR on Saturday but finished the June 25-27 event at The Ridge Motorsports Park with a third place in Sunday’s Stock 1000 race and second-best finish among the Superbike Cup riders in Sunday’s Superbike race.
Wyman left The Ridge with a six-point lead in the MotoAmerica Superbike Cup points standings and is fourth in the battle for the Stock 1000 title.
Wyman and the other top four riders in the Superbike Cup practiced and qualified with the Superbike Class at The Ridge round. Wyman posted a best time of 1:44.120 in Superbike practice on Friday, which was the second-fastest time among the Superbike Cup riders and the 11th-best time when compared to the Superbike riders. Later Friday, Wyman finished the day’s qualifying session 10th with a time of 1:44.133.
Qualifying concluded Saturday morning with Wyman securing second on the weekend’s Stock 1000 starting grid with a lap time of 1:42.881.
The first of four races Wyman took part in — in searing 100 degree or higher temperatures — was Saturday’s Stock 1000 race. After getting a mediocre start, Wyman recovered to finish the first lap in fourth place. However, a problem with his rear tire affected his BMW’s handling and its ability to get good drive out of corners. After a near-highside as he exited the track’s last turn, Wyman dropped as low as eighth in the running order. He moved up one position on Lap 8 but had to settle for a seventh-place finish while running lap times about a second slower than the race leaders.
In the Saturday Superbike race, Wyman’s fast pace was brought to a halt by a problem with his motorcycle’s cooling system. Starting from 12th, Wyman had worked his way up to ninth place in two laps but had to retire from the race on Lap 4 when water began spraying from his BMW’s catch can.
The team worked on ways to keep Wyman’s BMW running cooler Saturday night, and its efforts proved worthwhile Sunday. In the day’s Stock 1000 race, Wyman recovered from dropping to fifth place at the end of Lap 1 to scoring his third podium finish of the 2021 Stock 1000 season. Later Sunday, Wyman got a good start in the Superbike race and brought his BMW home in 11th place, the second-best finish among the Superbike Cup riders.
The Travis Wyman Racing BMW team has two weeks to freshen up the team’s BMW S 1000 RR before it heads to the next MotoAmerica round, which is slated for July 9-11 at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca in Monterey, Calif.
Travis Wyman / No. 10
“It was a pretty frustrating weekend at The Ridge, but the good results I got on Sunday — especially the podium in Stock 1000 — made the struggle worthwhile. I’ve taught at racetracks around the world and can say the conditions were some of the hottest I’ve endured in my racing career. My crew chief, Steve Weir, and mechanic, Alex Torres, did an outstanding job this weekend, and we wouldn’t have found the success we did on Sunday without the hard work they put in Saturday night. I owe a big thank you to Steve Korol of Evol Technology LLC for being my team’s title sponsor for the Ridge, and it’s great to be nearing the halfway point of the season and still be in the mix for two class titles. There’s still a lot of racing left to go this year, and what we overcame here at the Ridge gives the team a lot of positive momentum heading into the next round at Laguna Seca.”
More, from a press release issued by BARTCON Racing:
BARTCON Racing couldn’t be prouder of 14-year-old Kayla Yaakov, who just started her professional career in the MotoAmerica STG Junior Cup series this past weekend on board her BARTCON Racing/Coastal Kawasaki Ninja 400.
Kayla Yaakov (31) in action at Ridge Motorsports Park. Photo courtesy BARTCON Racing.
Unfortunately, Kayla had a slow start, crashing in free practice which left her with a slight shoulder injury. She battled on regardless and qualified 13th, earning her a spot on the fifth row of the grid.
Kayla took ninth in her debut in Race One followed by an excellent sixth in Race Two, which was all the more impressive considering the race was run in blistering 100-degree ambient temperatures.
Big thanks to all the BARTCON Racing/Kayla fans that swung by the paddock to wish her the best of luck and a bigger thanks to our sponsors who without their support we would not be able to make this season possible. Coastal Neurosurgery & Spine, JTS Surgical, Triple Strong Racing, Forma Boots USA, Orient Express, K-Tech Suspension, Bud Lubricants, Spears Racing, Rage Grafix.
We are all very excited for our next round in less than two weeks at Laguna Seca and hope to see all our West Coast friends, family and fans there cheering on Kayla, Dominic Doyle, and Ryne Snooks.
Johnny Lewis (10) in action on his Royal Enfield at the Lima Half-Mile in 2021. Photo by Scott Hunter, courtesy AFT.
ROYAL ENFIELD CELEBRATES FIRST-EVER HALF-MILE VICTORY
Lewis wins in commanding fashion at the Lima Half-Mile
Milwaukee, Wis (Tuesday, June 29, 2021) – Round seven of the 2021 Progressive American Flat Track Championship proved to be a historic moment for Royal Enfield, as Johnny Lewis and the Moto Anatomy x Royal Enfield Team were the class of the field on Saturday evening at the Allen County Fairgrounds in Lima, Ohio. The win marked the team’s first victory since the Daytona I Short Track, and the first-ever Half-Mile win for Royal Enfield and the Moto Anatomy x Royal Enfield Team.
Johnny Lewis (center) on the podium with Cory Texter (right) at the Lima Half-Mile. Photo courtesy Royal Enfield North America.
“This weekend gave us the opportunity to showcase what the Royal Enfield Twins FT is capable of,” said Moto Anatomy x Royal Enfield rider Johnny Lewis. “The team has been working extremely hard every time out to improve the motorcycle and this result reflects all the effort we’ve put into the program. We couldn’t be happier with this achievement. Thank you to Royal Enfield, the team and all our supporters for backing us.”
Lewis got out to a decent start in the main event but had to work his way into the lead, which took him less than a minute to do. From there, Lewis simply dominated the field, leaving the competition to battle over second as he stretched his lead. A red flag (due to a downed rider) with less than two minutes remaining prompted a restart, and once again Lewis had to make some passes to get out front, but he simply powered his Royal Enfield Twins FT around the outside, reclaiming the lead and taking the checkered flag.
Johnny Lewis’ win at Lima, Ohio comes after a steady season of progress with the Moto Anatomy x Royal Enfield Team. Following some flashes of brilliance aboard the Twins FT in the 2021 season, Lewis and the team knew they had the engine to be competitive, and worked on fine-tuning the chassis with their focus specifically on the Half-Mile. The classic venue at Lima, Ohio—the only cushion Half-Mile on the American Flat Track schedule—was the perfect stage for this significant victory for Royal Enfield.
“This historic win came at the right moment for the team, for Johnny and Royal Enfield,” said Breeann Poland, Marketing and Communications Lead – Royal Enfield Americas. “We started the season with a new crew led by David Lloyd and have been looking for our first win at a Half-Mile. We look forward to continuing our development and seeing Johnny progress even more throughout the 2021 American Flat Track season.”
Lewis and the Moto Anatomy X Royal Enfield team will be back in action on Saturday, July 24, at the Port Royale Half-Mile in New York. They will be joined by the Royal Enfield BUILD TRAIN RACE (BTR) program as the ladies are looking toward their next exhibition race at the same venue.
About Royal Enfield
The oldest motorcycle company in continuous production in the world, Royal Enfield made its first motorcycle in 1901. A division of Eicher Motors Limited, Royal Enfield has created the mid-size motorcycle segment in India with its unique and distinctive modern classic motorcycles. With its manufacturing base in Chennai, India, Royal Enfield has been able to grow its production rapidly against a surge in demand for its motorcycles. Royal Enfield is a leading player in the global middleweight motorcycle market.
The Moto Anatomy x Royal Enfield team is supported by Harris Performance, SENA, Spectro Oils, Beringer Brakes, Solid Performance, EVS, ODI, Just 1, Tucker, Saddlemen, S&S Cycle, Team Lawant, Quayle Construction and Goon Glass and Rubber.
Royal Enfield North America (RENA) is headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and is developing a growing network of more than 125 dealers in North America, including the contiguous U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico. RENA currently offers the all-new Meteor 350, Himalayan and the 650 Twins (INT 650 and Continental GT 650) motorcycles, along with a range of Genuine Motorcycle Accessories and apparel.
More, from a press release issued by Indian Motorcycle:
INDIAN MOTORCYCLE FACTORY RIDER BRIAR BAUMAN TAKES FIRST PLACE IN FRONT OF A SOLD-OUT CROWD AT LIMA HALF-MILE
Bauman rings in his 18th career win, and second Lima Half-Mile victory during the Mission SuperTwins
Briar Bauman (1). Photo courtesy Indian Motorcycle.
LIMA, Ohio – Indian Motorcycle Racing carried out its 2021 American Flat Track (AFT) season Saturday evening under the lights at the Johnny K’s Indian Motorcycle Lima Half-Mile powered by Drag Specialties at the Allen County Fairgrounds. Indian Motorcycle factory rider and two-time Grand National Champion Briar Bauman took first place, solidifying his second win of the 2021 AFT season.
Joining Bauman on the podium were fellow Indian Motorcycle riders Brandon Robinson and Jared Vanderkooi. Robinson, who won last week’s Oklahoma City Mile I, has recorded back-to-back second-place finishes, while Vanderkooi, an Ohio local, secured his third podium of the season.
“This is the same track I secured my first Twins win on back in 2017, so to be able to come in tonight, in front of a sold-out crowd, and take the podium after a dramatic battle is pretty special,” said Bauman. “We knew we were going to have fierce competition, so to have bar-to-bar action and come out on top means a lot to our team and gives us a boost of confidence as we look to the second half of the season.”
The pure muscle win at the Lima Half-Mile sets Bauman at the top of the leaderboard with 139 points. Robinson trails closely with 127 points, while Jared Mees sits in third with 116. Through seven races, the three riders find themselves with two wins a piece, while Bauman has recorded six total podium finishes.
The season is sure to be an exciting journey to follow as Robinson and Bauman continue to duke it out for the coveted position atop the leaderboard. The 2021 AFT season will continue Saturday, July 17, at the Duquoin mile. For more information on Indian Motorcycle Racing, visit IndianMotorcycle.com and follow along on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
ABOUT INDIAN MOTORCYCLE®
Indian Motorcycle is America’s First Motorcycle Company®. Founded in 1901, Indian Motorcycle has won the hearts of motorcyclists around the world and earned distinction as one of America’s most legendary and iconic brands through unrivaled racing dominance, engineering prowess and countless innovations and industry firsts. Today that heritage and passion is reignited under new brand stewardship. To learn more, please visit www.indianmotorcycle.com.
Michael Barnes (34) set the pole position, led every lap, and beat Tyler O’Hara (29) to the finish line by 0.356 seconds in the Bagger Racing League Premier Bagger GP race. Photo by Derek Cloutier/Wicked Windage Photography, courtesy Harley-Davidson.
BARNES CHARGES TO BAGGER RACING LEAGUE WIN ON HARLEY-DAVIDSON ROAD GLIDE SPECIAL
H-D Racers 1-3 in Premier Bagger class; H-D Racer Carlson wins Hooligan GP and Pro Stock GP
MILWAUKEE (June 28, 2021) – Hoban Brothers Racing/DTF Performance rider Michael Barnes rode a race-prepared Harley-Davidson® Road Glide® Special motorcycle to victory in the inaugural Bagger Racing League (BRL) road race event on June 27 at Utah Motorsports Campus in Grantsville, Utah. Competing in the main event Premier Bagger class, Barnes beat S&S/Indian Motorcycles rider Tyler O’Hara to the finish line by 0.356 seconds. Cory West was third on the Saddlemen Racing/Slyfox Performance Harley-Davidson Road Glide Special. In BRL support classes, Benny Carlson won both the Hooligan GP (Suburban Motors Harley-Davidson XR1200) and Pro Stock GP (Suicide Machine Company Harley-Davidson Road Glide) races.
“This win is a confidence booster for myself and the team,” said Barnes. “We didn’t think we were that far off at the MotoAmerica King of the Baggers race at Road America. For this race we had a different front end, different shocks, different geometry. We made some smart decisions, and they have all made the bike better. That’s a testament to the knowledge of this team. Setting up a Road Glide for road racing has been a steep learning curve, not just for me riding it but everyone involved. We’ve made leaps and bounds at every test and every event, so after disappointing results earlier this season it’s a great reward to get this win.”
Barnes was the top qualifier for the BRL event, took the holeshot, and led O’Hara for the entire 8-lap race distance.
“Tyler and I have raced each other a lot over the years,” said Barnes. “He was right there the whole time. At the start, I could feel him try a line up the inside. And couple times I ran wide due to shifting issues, but he wasn’t able to take advantage. I basically got the holeshot and tried to keep him at bay.”
The Bagger Racing League is a new racing organization promoting road-racing competition for American V-Twin-powered motorcycles. Racing takes place in four classes over a three-day weekend that also includes entertainment including stunt shows.
Bagger Racing League Premier Bagger GP Results:
1. Michael Barnes (Hoban Brothers Racing/DTF Performance Harley-Davidson)
2. Tyler O’Hara (S&S Indian)
3. Cory West (Saddlemen Racing/Slyfox Harley-Davidson)
Tom Sykes (66) leads Jonathan Rea (1), Leon Haslam (91) and others during a World Superbike race at Donington Park in 2019. Photo courtesy BMW Motorrad Motorsport.
It’s coming home: WorldSBK heads to where it all began at Donington Park
After a year out in 2020, WorldSBK thunders into the United Kingdom, where there’s a homecoming to be had
The 2021 MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship is shaping up to be a vintage year, as we roll into the Great British countryside for round four of the season at Donington Park. With sporting fever in the air across the whole world as summer kicks in, WorldSBK returns to its birthplace of Donington Park, where it all started back on a cold April Sunday in 1988. 31 years later and the Championship is red hot, with home-hero Jonathan Rea (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK) leading an in-form Toprak Razgatlioglu (Pata Yamaha with BRIXX WorldSBK) by 20 points, but that could all change in what is set to be, as ever, an unpredictable UK Round.
The man in the best form coming into the Prosecco DOC UK Round is Toprak Razgatlioglu, having taken his first 2021 victory last time out, the latest in a string of six consecutive podiums that have consisted of four second places, one third and now a victory. He also returns to a happy hunting ground at Donington Park, where he achieved a career-first WorldSBK podium by beating Jonathan Rea in 2018 on the final lap of Race 2. In 2019, they also went head-to-head in the closing stages; is another duel on the cards? Teammate Andrea Locatelli makes his racing debut at Donington Park this weekend and will hope for a solid weekend after visiting the track two week before.
Aiming to bounce back and strike with victory on home soil, Jonathan Rea took all three races at Donington Park in 2019. Whilst the last three races at the track may well have been good to the reigning six-time World Champion, the last three races of recent times were more of a challenge. Three third places at Misano left Rea wanting more, but when this is a ‘bad’ day at the office, you know his monumental consistency is strong. He aims to be back on the top step at Donington Park for a sixth time, whilst teammate Alex Lowes hasn’t ridden Donington Park on a Kawasaki.
After a difficult Misano where he couldn’t crack the front-running pace, Scott Redding (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) needs a resurgence at Donington Park, the circuit where he took a first ever World Championship win at back in 2008’s 125cc World Championship GP. Three fourth places at Misano leaves Redding 45 points back in the title race, whilst on the other side of the garage, Michael Ruben Rinaldi was in sensational form at Misano, with two wins and a second, something he hopes will act as a key change in 2021 after a difficult first two rounds. Two 12th places in 2019 for Rinaldi at Donington Park, something he should improve on this weekend.
5 key stats ahead of the Prosecco DOC UK Round
3 – There are three riders in the current field who won a WorldSBK race at Donington: Tom Sykes (9), Jonathan Rea (5), Michael van der Mark (2).
7 – Tom Sykes is the record holder for Donington Superpoles: seven, and he is the only active rider who started from pole here.
23 – British riders have won 23 races here: in 2018 Michael van der Mark stopped a sequence of 11 wins by British riders, but Rea in 2019 put Great Britain back on top winning all three races.
2011 – The last race without a Kawasaki rider on the Donington podium was back in 2011.
54 – Ducati have built up 54 podium finishes in the 55 races held so far at Donington. Kawasaki are second-best with 45.
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