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American Flat Track: Running Results From The Chicago Half-Mile (Updated With Main Events)

David Swarts
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American Flat Track: Running Results From The Chicago Half-Mile (Updated With Main Events)

Chicago Half-Mile/American Flat Track

The Dirt Oval at Route 66 Speedway

Joliet, Illinois

May 29, 2021

AFT Mission SuperTwins Provisional Free Practice 1 Results (all on Dunlop tires):

1. Briar Bauman (Ind), 21.022 seconds

2. Jared Mees (Ind), 21.124

3. Jarod Vanderkooi (Ind), 21.170

4. Sammy Halbert (Ind), 21.209

5. Bronson Bauman (Ind), 21.247

6. Brandon Robinson (Ind), 21.353

7. Kolby Carlile (Yam), 21.399

8. Robert Pearson (Ind), 21.490

9. Brandon Price (Ind), 21.501

10. James Rispoli (Har), 21.660

11. Larry Pegram (Ind), 21.723

12. Davis Fisher (Ind), 21.729

13. JD Beach (Yam), 21.786

 

 

AFT Production Twins Provisional Free Practice 1 Results (all on Dunlop tires):

1. Ben Lowe (Har), 21.755 seconds

2. Ryan Varnes (Kaw), 21.773

3. Johnny Lewis (Roy), 21.873

4. Dylan Bell (Har), 21.935

5. Cory Texter (Yam), 22.045

6. Dalton Gauthier (Har), 22.059

7. Dan Bromley (Yam), 22.144

8. Chad Cose (Har), 22.177

9. Daniel Eslick (Kaw), 22.411

10. Patrick Buchanan (Har), 22.577

11. Jeremiah Duffy (Kaw), 22.658

12. Brock Schwarzenbacher (Kaw), 22.894

13. Cameron Smith (Yam), 22.907

14. Garret Wilson (Kaw), 23.032

15. Mitch Harvat (Kaw), 23.077

16. Jordan Harris (Kaw), 23.296

17. Kasey Sciscoe (Kaw), 23.423

18. Jimmy McAllister (Kaw), 23.736

19. Shelby Miller (Kaw), 23.884

 

 

AFT Singles Provisional Free Practice 1 Results (all on Dunlop tires):

1. Brandon Kitchen (Hus), 21.970 seconds

2. Hunter Bauer (KTM), 21.999

3. Ryan Wells (Hon), 22.024

4. Andrew Luker (Yam), 22.037

5. Michael Inderbitzin (Hon), 22.074

6. Max Whale (KTM), 22.144

7. Kody Kopp (Hon), 22.159

8. Dallas Daniels (Yam), 22.181

9. Travis Petton IV (Hon), 22.181

10. Trent Lowe (Suz), 22.214

11. Tanner Dean (Hon), 22.248

12. Morgen Mischler (KTM), 22.248

13. Michael Rush (Yam), 22.287

14. Cole Zabala (Hon), 22.300

15. Shayna Texter-Bauman (KTM), 22.355

16. Trevor Brunner (Hon), 22.364

17. James Ott (KTM), 22.408

18. Ezra Brusky (Hon), 22.452

19. Grant Holmes (Suz), 22.515

20. Michael Hill (Yam), 22.618

21. Tyler Raggio (Hon), 22.705

22. Jared Lowe (Hon), 22.722

23. David Wiggin (KTM), 22.754

24. Jacob Lehmann (Hon), 22.757

25. Billy Ross (KTM), 22.772

26. Kasey Sciscoe (Hon), 22.788

27. Aidan RoosEvans (KTM), 22.801

28. Tarren Santero (Kaw), 22.839

29. Kevin Stollings (Hon), 22.944

30. Brandon Newman (KTM), 23.066

31. Jordan Jean (Hon), 23.092

32. Blake Steinwagner (Hon), 23.173

33. Kyler Adams (KTM), 23.229

34. Ian Wolfe (Hon), 23.347

35. Trent Pickle (Hus), 23.687

 

 

Royal Enfield Build. Train. Race. Provisional Free Practice 1 Results (all on Dunlop tires):

 

1. Jillian Deschenes (Roy), 25.720 seconds

2. Jaycee Jones (Roy), 25.750

3. Sarah Dixon (Roy), 26.422

4. Erin Ferris (Roy), 27.365

5. Nean Kiskela (Roy), 27.835

6. Malary Lee (Roy), 27.919

7. Lanakila MacNaughton (Roy), 28.313

8. Gabrielle Hughes (Roy), 28.478

9. Bridgette LeBer (Roy), 28.642

 

 

AFT Mission SuperTwins Provisional Qualifying 1 Results (all on Dunlop tires):

1. Briar Bauman (Ind), 20.445 seconds

2. Brandon Robinson (Ind), 20.505

3. Jarod Vanderkooi (Ind), 20.595

4. Jared Mees (Ind), 20.628

5. Bronson Bauman (Ind), 20.649

6. Sammy Halbert (Ind), 20.721

7. Davis Fisher (Ind), 20.770

8. Larry Pegram (Ind), 20.836

9. JD Beach (Yam), 20.843

10. Robert Pearson (Ind), 20.932

11. Brandon Price (Ind), 20.967

12. James Rispoli (Har), 21.011

13. Kolby Carlile (Yam), 21.019

 

 

AFT Production Twins Provisional Qualifying 1 Results (all on Dunlop tires):

1. Dalton Gauthier (Har), 20.713 seconds

2. Chad Cose (Har), 20.983

3. Dylan Bell (Har), 20.988

4. Ben Lowe (Har), 21.081

5. Johnny Lewis (Roy), 21.136

6. Daniel Eslick (Kaw), 21.200

7. Cory Texter (Yam), 21.203

8. Jeremiah Duffy (Kaw), 21.316

9. Ryan Varnes (Kaw), 21.323

10. Patrick Buchanan (Har), 21.366

11. Cameron Smith (Yam), 21.519

12. Kasey Sciscoe (Kaw), 21.533

13. Jordan Harris (Kaw), 21.621

14. Brock Schwarzenbacher (Kaw), 21.651

15. Mitch Harvat (Kaw), 21.869

16. Garret Wilson (Kaw), 21.957

17. Shelby Miller (Kaw), 21.985

18. Jimmy McAllister (Kaw), 22.082

19. Dan Bromley (Yam), 24.752

 

 

AFT Singles Provisional Qualifying 1 Results (all on Dunlop tires):

1. Michael Inderbitzin (Hon), 21.156 seconds

2. Morgen Mischler (KTM), 21.208

3. Brandon Kitchen (Hus), 21.216

4. Trent Lowe (Suz), 21.271

5. Max Whale (KTM), 21.278

6. Trevor Brunner (Hon), 21.293

7. Dallas Daniels (Yam), 21.328

8. Michael Rush (Yam), 21.334

9. Kasey Sciscoe (Hon), 21.334

10. Henry Wiles (Hon), 21.358

11. Tanner Dean (Hon), 21.361

12. Kody Kopp (Hon), 21.418

13. Aidan RoosEvans (KTM), 21.446

14. James Ott (KTM), 21.531

15. Shayna Texter-Bauman (KTM), 21.592

16. Jacob Lehmann (Hon), 21.627

17. Tarren Santero (Kaw), 21.642

18. Hunter Bauer (KTM), 21.656

19. Kevin Stollings (Hon), 21.696

20. Ryan Wells (Hon), 21.699

21. Andrew Luker (Yam), 21.752

22. Tyler Raggio (Hon), 21.758

23. Ezra Brusky (Hon), 21.785

24. Cole Zabala (Hon), 21.789

25. Travis Petton IV (Hon), 21.871

26. Jared Lowe (Hon), 21.897

27. Brandon Newman (KTM), 22.121

28. Trent Pickle (Hus), 22.128

29. Billy Ross (KTM), 22.155

30. Ian Wolfe (Hon), 22.175

31. David Wiggin (KTM), 22.185

32. Kyler Adams (KTM), 22.209

33. Michael Hill (Yam), 22.280

34. Grant Holmes (Suz), 22.425

35. Jordan Jean (Hon), 22.465

36. Blake Steinwagner (Hon), 22.469

 

 

Royal Enfield BUILD. TRAIN. RACE. Provisional Qualifying 1 Results (all on Dunlop tires):

  1. Jillian Deschenes (Roy), 24.286 seconds
  1. Jaycee Jones (Roy), 25.123
  1. Lanakila MacNaughton (Roy), 25.522
  1. Sarah Dixon (Roy), 25.681
  1. Erin Ferris (Roy), 26.136
  1. Malary Lee (Roy), 26.420
  1. Nean Kiskela (Roy), 26.675
  1. Bridgette LeBer (Roy), 27.220
  1. Gabrielle Hughes (Roy), 28.353

 

AFT Mission SuperTwins Provisional Qualifying 2 Results (all on Dunlop tires):

  1. Briar Bauman (Ind), 20.399 seconds
  1. Brandon Robinson (Ind), 20.416
  1. Bronson Bauman (Ind), 20.468
  1. Sammy Halbert (Ind), 20.595
  1. Davis Fisher (Ind), 20.630
  1. Jared Mees (Ind), 20.644
  1. Jarod Vanderkooi (Ind), 20.655
  1. Brandon Price (Ind), 20.713
  1. JD Beach (Yam), 20.737
  1. Robert Pearson (Ind), 20.745
  1. Larry Pegram (Ind), 20.765
  1. James Rispoli (Har), 20.766
  1. Kolby Carlile (Yam), 20.850

 

AFT Production Twins Provisional Qualifying 2 Results (all on Dunlop tires):

  1. Dalton Gauthier (Har), 20.756 seconds
  1. Chad Cose (Har), 20.808
  1. Dan Bromley (Yam), 20.839
  1. Cory Texter (Yam), 20.930
  1. Johnny Lewis (Roy), 20.933
  1. Dylan Bell (Har), 20.989
  1. Ben Lowe (Har), 21.034
  1. Daniel Eslick (Kaw), 21.048
  1. Ryan Varnes (Kaw), 21.132
  1. Jeremiah Duffy (Kaw), 21.335
  1. Cameron Smith (Yam), 21.362
  1. Patrick Buchanan (Har), 21.375
  1. Kasey Sciscoe (Kaw), 21.546
  1. Jordan Harris (Kaw), 21.580
  1. Mitch Harvat (Kaw), 21.743
  1. Shelby Miller (Kaw), 21.851
  1. Jimmy McAllister (Kaw), 21.880
  1. Garret Wilson (Kaw), 21.926

 

AFT Singles Provisional Qualifying 2 Results (all on Dunlop tires):

  1. Morgen Mischler (KTM), 21.100 seconds
  2. Brandon Kitchen (Hus), 21.129
  3. Trent Lowe (Suz), 21.140
  4. Max Whale (KTM), 21.148
  5. Trevor Brunner (Hon), 21.183
  6. Michael Inderbitzin (Hon), 21.194
  7. Henry Wiles (Hon), 21.200
  8. Tanner Dean (Hon), 21.290
  9. Dallas Daniels (Yam), 21.303
  10. Kody Kopp (Hon), 21.358
  11. Shayna Texter-Bauman (KTM), 21.377
  12. Kasey Sciscoe (Hon), 21.385
  13. Michael Rush (Yam), 21.401
  14. Jacob Lehmann (Hon), 21.468
  15. Kevin Stollings (Hon), 21.499
  16. Tyler Raggio (Hon), 21.499
  17. Ryan Wells (Hon), 21.542
  18. Ezra Brusky (Hon), 21.549
  19. Andrew Luker (Yam), 21.582
  20. Aidan RoosEvans (KTM), 21.597
  21. Hunter Bauer (KTM), 21.684
  22. James Ott (KTM), 21.706
  23. Tarren Santero (Kaw), 21.708
  24. Jared Lowe (Hon), 21.718
  25. Travis Petton IV (Hon), 21.807
  26. Trent Pickle (Hus), 21.863
  27. Cole Zabala (Hon), 21.880
  28. Brandon Newman (KTM), 21.941
  29. Billy Ross (KTM), 21.947
  30. David Wiggin (KTM), 22.000
  31. Blake Steinwagner (Hon), 22.106
  32. Jordan Jean (Hon), 22.108
  33. Michael Hill (Yam), 22.131
  34. Kyler Adams (KTM), 22.212
  35. Grant Holmes (Suz), 22.384
  36. Ian Wolfe (Hon), no time recorded

Royal Enfield Build. Train. Race. Semi Results (all on Dunlop tires):

1. Jillian Deschenes (Roy), 5 laps
2. Sarah Dixon (Roy), -10.444 seconds
3. Bridgette LeBer (Roy), -12.112
4. Malary Lee (Roy), -12.153
5. Nean Kiskela (Roy), -12.999
6. Erin Ferris (Roy), -24.712
7. Lanakila MacNaughton (Roy), -2 laps
8. Gabrielle Hughes (Roy), -2 laps, 25.820
9. Jaycee Jones (Roy), -4 laps

 

Provisional Mission SuperTwins Semi 1 Results (all on Dunlop tires):

1. Bronson Bauman (Ind), 8 laps

2. Sammy Halbert (Ind), -00.764 seconds

3. Briar Bauman (Ind), -00.892

4. Davis Fisher (Ind), -01.674

5. JD Beach (Yam), -03.024

6. Kolby Carlile (Yam), -03.087

7. Larry Pegram (Ind), -03.594


Provisional Mission SuperTwins Semi 2 Results (all on Dunlop tires):

1. Jared Mees (Ind), 8 laps

2. Brandon Robinson (Ind), -00.518 seconds

3. Brandon Price (Ind), -02.151

4. Jarod Vanderkooi (Ind), -02.262

5. Robert Pearson (Ind), -02.718

6. James Rispoli (Har), -03.359

Provisional AFT Production Twins Semi 1 Results (all on Dunlop tires):

1. Dalton Gauthier (Har), 8 laps

2. Johnny Lewis (Roy), -00.660 seconds

3. Dan Bromley (Yam), -01.185

4. Ben Lowe (Har), -01.287

5. Ryan Varnes (Kaw), -01.486

6. Kasey Sciscoe (Kaw), -03.127

7. Cameron Smith (Yam), -03.356

8. Brock Schwarzenbacher (Kaw), -04.272

9. Shelby Miller (Kaw), -06.875

10. Garret Wilson (Kaw), -07.221

Provisional AFT Production Twins Semi 2 Results (all on Dunlop tires):

1. Daniel Eslick (Kaw), 8 laps

2. Cory Texter (Yam), -00.089 seconds

3. Chad Cose (Har), -00.785

4. Dylan Bell (Har), -02.186

5. Jeremiah Duffy (Kaw), -02.625

6. Patrick Buchanan (Har), -04.203

7. Jordan Harris (Kaw), -04.651

8. Mitch Harvat (Kaw), -08.027

9. Jimmy McAllister (Kaw), -7 laps

Provisional AFT Singles Semi 1 Results (all on Dunlop tires):

1. Morgen Mischler (KTM), 8 laps

2. Michael Inderbitzin (Hon), -00.074 seconds

3. Henry Wiles (Hon), -00.222

4. Trent Lowe (Suz), -00.702

5. Dallas Daniels (Yam), -01.052

6. Shayna Texter-Bauman (KTM), -01.296

7. Cole Zabala (Hon), -01.694

8. Hunter Bauer (KTM), -03.191

9. Kasey Sciscoe (Hon), -03.318

10. Andrew Luker (Yam), -03.618

11. Ryan Wells (Hon), -03.880

12. Jacob Lehmann (Hon), -04.061

13. Trent Pickle (Hus), -04.534

14. Tyler Raggio (Hon), -04.759

15. Billy Ross (KTM), -05.352

16. Blake Steinwagner (Hon), -07.430

Provisional AFT Singles Semi 2 Results (all on Dunlop tires):

1. Max Whale (KTM), 8 laps

2. Michael Rush (Yam), -00.645 seconds

3. Tanner Dean (Hon), -01.377

4. Trevor Brunner (Hon), -02.158

5. Kevin Stollings (Hon), -02.310

6. James Ott (KTM), -02.470

7. Aidan RoosEvans (KTM), -02.683

8. Ezra Brusky (Hon), -02.823

9. Brandon Kitchen (Hus), -02.916

10. Tarren Santero (Kaw), -03.265
11. Kody Kopp (Hon), -03.748

12. David Wiggin (KTM), -04.054

13. Jared Lowe (Hon), -04.805

14. Brandon Newman (KTM), -05.816

15. Jordan Jean (Hon), -06.271

16. Travis Petton IV (Hon), -07.008

Provisional Royal Enfield Build. Train. Race. Main Event Results (all on Dunlop tires):

1. Jillian Deschenes (Roy), 6 laps

2. Jaycee Jones (Roy), -00.847 seconds

3. Sarah Dixon (Roy), -05.493

4. Erin Ferris (Roy), -07.142

5. Malary Lee (Roy), -08.934

6. Bridgette LeBer (Roy), -09.168

7. Nean Kiskela (Roy), -09.336

8. Gabrielle Hughes (Roy), -23.962

9. Lanakila MacNaughton (Roy), -6 laps

Provisional Mission SuperTwins Mission Challenge Results (all on Dunlop tires):

1. Brandon Robinson (Ind), 4 laps

2. Bronson Bauman (Ind), -00.320 seconds

3. Jared Mees (Ind), -00.654

4. Sammy Halbert (Ind), -05.288

Provisional AFT Production Twins Main Event Results (all on Dunlop tires):

1. Cory Texter (Yam), 24 laps

2. Chad Cose (Har), -00.114 seconds

3. Danny Eslick (Kaw), -01.346

4. Ben Lowe (Har), -01.712

5. Ryan Varnes (Kaw), -03.777

6. Cameron Smith (Yam), -03.952

7. Dalton Gauthier (Har), -06.097

8. Johnny Lewis (Roy), -07.812

9. Kasey Sciscoe (Kaw), -08.052

10. Dylan Bell (Har), -08.271

11. Jeremiah Duffy (Kaw), -11.292

12. Dan Bromley (Yam), -11.591

13. Patrick Buchanan (Har), -12.675

14. Jordan Harris (Kaw), -15.266

15. Shelby Miller (Kaw), -20.204

16. Mitch Harvat (Kaw), -21.637

17. Brock Schwarzenbacher (Kaw), -13 laps

Provisional AFT Singles Main Event Results (all on Dunlop tires):

1. Max Whale (KTM), 25 laps

2. Morgen Mischler (KTM), -00.550 seconds

3. Michael Rush (Yam), -00.722

4. Dallas Daniels (Yam), -02.462

5. Michael Inderbitzin (Hon), -04.155

6. Trent Lowe (Suz), -05.191

7. Kevin Stollings (Hon), -06.348

8. Trevor Brunner (Hon), -06.402

9. Cole Zabala (Hon), -06.529

10. Shayna Texter-Bauman (KTM), -06.757

11. Henry Wiles (Hon), -06.898

12. Tanner Dean (Hon), -07.053

13. James Ott (KTM), -07.418

14. Brandon Kitchen (Hus), -07.603

15. Hunter Bauer (KTM), -08.170

16. Ezra Brusky (Hon), -11.357

17. Aidan RoosEvans (KTM), -11.928

Provisional Mission SuperTwins Main Event Results (all on Dunlop tires):

1. Briar Bauman (Ind), 31 laps

2. Jarod Vanderkooi (Ind), -01.184 seconds

3. Jared Mees (Ind), -03.530

4. Brandon Robinson (Ind), -06.303

5. Bronson Bauman (Ind), -06.557

6. Brandon Price (Ind), -07.289

7. Davis Fisher (Ind), -08.614

8. JD Beach (Yam), -08.669

9. Robert Pearson (Ind), -10.089

10. Kolby Carlile (Yam), -10.204

11. James Rispoli (Har), -12.323

12. Larry Pegram (Ind), -12.531

13. Sammy Halbert (Ind), -31 laps

 

 

 

More, from a press release issued by American Flat Track:

Bauman Rediscovers the Fire at Chicago Half-Mile

 

Briar Bauman. Photo courtesy AFT.
Briar Bauman. Photo courtesy AFT.

JOLIET, Ill. (May 29, 2021) – Briar Bauman (No. 1 Indian Motorcycle/Progressive Insurance FTR750) reminded the Progressive American Flat Track world precisely why he’s the two-time defending Grand National Champion with a dominant performance in Saturday’s Chicago Half-Mile at the Dirt Oval at Route 66 Speedway in Joliet, Illinois.

The victory couldn’t come soon enough for Bauman, who lined up for the evening’s Main Event burdened by an uncharacteristic eight-race Mission SuperTwins presented by S&S Cycle wins drought.

Early on, it looked as if Bauman was going to have to pull it out of his helmet if he were to end his winless streak on this night. A wild opening several minutes saw him repeatedly cross lines and swap positions as part of a energized five-rider lead pack that also included his brother Bronson Bauman (No. 37 Indian Motorcycle of Oklahoma City FTR750), Jared Mees (No. 9 Indian Motorcycle/Progressive Insurance FTR750), Jarod Vanderkooi (No. 20 Mission Roof Systems Indian FTR750), and Brandon Robinson (No. 44 Mission Roof Systems Indian FTR750).

Unfortunately, that scintillating multi-line dogfight for victory was cut short near mid-distance when Mees got into the back of Robinson’s machine. In a slow-developing incident, Mees was stood up twice and was nearly thrown over the bars. Ultimately, he held on and stayed upright, but Robinson was not nearly so lucky as his bike was spun out from underneath him.

Moments later, James Rispoli (No. 43 Latus Motors Racing Harley-Davidson XG750R Rev X) joined Robinson on the deck, crashing as a result of the evasive action he took to avoid striking the downed rider. Robinson initially appeared destined for an ambulance ride but instead was cleared to line up at the very back of the staggered restart on his backup FTR750.

Reigning champion Bauman took point at the front of the staggered restart and put on a clinic from that point forward. He gradually gapped Mees, who later found himself more concerned with the looming presence of Vanderkooi in third. That concern was validated when Vanderkooi made his way through and locked down his second career premier-class runner-up in as many attempts. Mees continued on in third, which came as some relief considering he’s still on the mend with an injured left knee.

Bauman’s triumph not only put him back on top of the box, it also elevated him into the points lead for the first time in 2021.

After the race, he said, “Honestly, I’m just happy to be here racing again. I tried to say I wasn’t counting, but I was. It’s a weird deal; we were so dominant the second half of the season last year, and I haven’t been at all (in 2021). I’m going to be honest, the fire wasn’t there at all. I’ve been kind of burnt out on a lot of things and just kind of enjoying my time at home with Shayna (Texter-Bauman) and my dog.

“Right now, the fire is back.”

Fourth went to an inspired Robinson, who translated his adrenaline, anger, and frontrunning pace into a fourth-place finish despite being forced to charge his way up through the pack. The result came as little comfort to Robinson, who felt like he’d been robbed of a golden opportunity for victory after earlier winning the Mission Challenge.

The younger Bauman rounded out the top five, with Brandon Price (No. 92 Mission Roof Systems Indian FTR750), Davis Fisher (No. 67 BMC Racing/Dick Wall 60 Indian FTR750), JD Beach (No. 95 Estenson Racing Yamaha MT-07 DT), Robert Pearson (No. 27 Rackley Racing/John Franklin Indian FTR750), and Kolby Carlile (No. 36 Estenson Racing Yamaha MT-07 DT) completing the top ten.

 

AFT Singles

Few AFT Singles riders came into the Chicago Half-Mile so hungry for a win as Mikey Rush (No. 15 Estenson Racing Yamaha YZ450F), Morgen Mischler (No. 13 Mission Roof Systems KTM 450 SX-F) and Max Whale (No. 18 Red Bull KTM Factory Racing 450 SX-FFE) — and for good reason.

The trio has repeatedly factored heavily for victory only to come up just short dating back to Rush’s mid-season 2020 win. In fact, in the series’ previous 11 races, the three combined to rack up 11 podiums — including seven runner-ups — with zero wins.

That was bound to end on Saturday as Rush, Mischler, and Whale quickly took formation in a three-wide group powering away from the remainder of the field. Rush controlled the opening laps after getting the holeshot, Mischler used the high line to run out front in the middle portions of the contest, while Whale surged forward with a pair of inside maneuvers to claim the lead with three minutes remaining. After that, the Aussie proved unassailable even if he couldn’t completely shake free from the pressure of Mischler and Rush.

The win was Whale’s first since earning his maiden Progressive AFT victory at the 2020 Volusia season opener.

He said, “That Main Event was so much fun. I found a line early on in the race that was working well. As the race went on, I noticed a front wheel a couple times on the inside and the outside, so I knew I could change it up. I started switching up my line about halfway through and found one and it stayed there. I’m so pumped about that.”

The final bit of drama took place when Mischler’s machine puffed a bit of smoke on the final lap just as Rush was closing in, only to completely let loose when Mischler took the checkered flag 0.172 seconds ahead in second.

Despite never challenging for the win, reigning class champion Dallas Daniels (No. 1 Estenson Racing Yamaha YZ450F) continues to lead the title fight — albeit only by a point over teammate Rush — after taking a relatively quiet fourth. Daniels was followed home by Michael Inderbitzin (No. 54 Pacific Tub & Tile Honda CRF450R), who rounded out the top five.

 

AFT Production Twins presented by Vance & Hines

Cory Texter (No. 65 G&G Racing/Roof Systems Yamaha MT-07) outdueled Chad Cose (No. 49 Voodoo Ranger/Roof Systems Harley-Davidson XG750R) in a stunning late-race shootout to become the first AFT Production Twins presented by Vance & Hines rider to score a second victory in 2021.

The battle gradually took shape over the course of a highly entertaining Main Event as the early thrills at the front were delivered by the likes of Dalton Gauthier (No. 79 D&D Cycles/Vance & Hines Harley-Davidson XG750R), Danny Eslick (No. 64 Pro One Industries Kawasaki Ninja 650), Johnny Lewis (No. 10 Moto Anatomy X Powered by Royal Enfield Twins FT), and Ben Lowe (No. 25 Mission Roof Systems Harley-Davidson XG750R).

At mid-distance Eslick was doing all that he could to fend off a fleet of Harleys aboard his Kawasaki from the low line, at least until Cose made his move. The Californian went around Eslick and then up the inside of Lowe in rapid succession and put his head down in a bid to escape.

Texter, meanwhile, systematically worked his way forward from further behind, closing in on Cose as the minutes ticked away. Once Texter decided to make his push for the win, the jockeying kicked into high gear. The final minute (plus two laps) saw the two trade the lead back and forth on five occasions, with Texter executing the final maneuver just as the two took the white flag.

Cose made one last desperate attempt around the outside but came up 0.114 seconds short at the checkered flag.

Texter relished in proving his doubters wrong yet again. After the race he said, “I know these guys are super talented — they’re probably more talented than me. But I just don’t feel like anybody is putting the work in that I am, day after day, and I have to because these guys are such good riders.

“It was a crazy race. I was back there, but I just don’t quit. I wanted to win it so bad. Chad rode such a good race; it’s fun when you can race one of your buddies because it was just like we were in the backyard play riding. That was awesome.”

Daytona 200 legend Eslick rounded out the podium with Lowe a few tenths back fourth. Ryan Varnes (No. 68 RVR/RoyBuilt Don’s Kawasaki Ninja 650) marched his way up through the pack to complete the top five while early-race contenders Gauthier and Lewis faded to seventh and eighth, respectively.

The Chicago Half-Mile will air on NBCSN on Sunday, June 6, starting at 5:00 p.m. ET/2:00 p.m. PT. The broadcast will include exclusive features, cutting-edge aerial drone and onboard footage, and the expert commentary of Progressive AFT legend Chris Carr.

 

Next Up:

The stars of Progressive AFT will test the upper limits of speed, bravery, and excitement when the series unleashes the first Mile action of the season doubleheader style. The Indian Motorcycle of Oklahoma City OKC Mile I & II presented by KICKER at Remington Park in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, will take place on Friday, June 18, and Saturday, June 19. Tickets are available for purchase now at https://store.americanflattrack.com/ebooking/ticket/view/id/3323/#selectTickets. For those viewing from home, live coverage will be available on any device for only $1.99 a month via TrackPass on NBC Sports Gold.

For more information on Progressive AFT visit https://www.americanflattrack.com.

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

 

 

 

More, from a press release issued by Yamaha:

Rush Extends Podium Streak at Chicago Half-Mile

Estenson Racing’s Mikey Rush is now the only rider in the paddock with an unblemished podium record this season, finishing third in the Progressive American Flat Track AFT Singles Main Event last night at the Chicago Half-Mile. He now trails teammate and defending class champion Dallas Daniels by just a single point for the championship lead after the Illinois rider finished fourth at the Dirt Oval at Route 66 Speedway. Their efforts were then backed up by a pair of top-10s from JD Beach and Kolby Carlile, who finished the Mission SuperTwins Main Event in eighth and 10th, respectively.

Rush got the holeshot in the AFT Singles Main, slotting his Yamaha YZ450F into the lead off the line. The race transformed into an intense three-rider scrap for the win. After running out front for the opening minutes, Rush was displaced to third as the clock ticked down but remained a constant presence in the battle for victory. The Californian upped the pressure over the race’s final two laps, closing dramatically on the rear wheels of his opponents, finishing less than eight tenths off the win and less than two tenths back of second.

Daniels had the pace but not the path to emerge as the fourth rider in victory contention at his first home round of the season. The Illinois native was forced to start from the third row after struggling in his Semi. He did what he could to get away from the start in seventh, but by the time he made his way up into fourth, there wasn’t enough time to close the gap to the three riders in front of him. Despite that, Daniels collected his fifth finish of fourth or better in as many tries in 2021 – including his sensational two-class double win in Atlanta – to retain the early AFT Singles points lead.

Beach kept himself firmly in the Mission SuperTwins championship mix as well, with another solid finish on Saturday. After searching for an ideal set-up all day on an evolving track, Beach fought his way forward in the Main following the race’s restart. At that point, he pushed as high up the order as sixth before ultimately finishing in eighth. Carlile faced similar issues with the changing surface but still managed to finished 10th aboard the second Yamaha MT-07 DT to keep the team’s perfect streak of top 10s alive. As a result, Beach currently ranks second and Carlile eighth in the season-long fight for the Grand National Championship.

Estenson Racing will open their Yamahas up and battle at high speed when the season resumes at Remington Park for the OKC Mile doubleheader in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, on June 18-19.

Tommy Hayden – Estenson Racing Team Manager

“We’re really excited to be back racing here in Joliet today. Unfortunately, it just seemed like from the beginning of the day, all of our guys were just a little bit off and struggling. We made improvements throughout the day, and we were getting a little closer as the day went on. In the Main Event, I think all of our guys were the most competitive they had been all day. Although we didn’t quite end up with the results that we had hoped for, we learned a lot, and we’re definitely looking forward to getting on a Mile track in Oklahoma in a few weeks.”

Mikey Rush – Estenson Racing AFT Singles

“I’m stoked to get another podium this weekend in Chicago. From where we started the day off in qualifying and struggling a bit, it was a big weight off my shoulders to get on the box again. At the same time, I just really want to get that race win for the team. The team worked their tails off, making changes all day long, and everything was awesome for the main. I’m looking forward to Oklahoma. We’re going to keep chipping away to try and get a race win. We’re sitting good in the points, just a point off of Dallas in first. I’m just going to keep doing what I’m doing during the week and show up ready to go.”

Dallas Daniels – Estenson Racing AFT Singles

“In practice, the track turned into a one-line groove, and you couldn’t really move around. They ended up doing some track prep, and for the Semi, the track was completely different. You could ride above the groove, and it was way faster, but we went the wrong direction in setup and ended up fifth in the Semi, which was not good at all. We had a third-row start for the Main Event, and that hurt us a lot. The team did a tremendous job, it was a scramble to get ready, but we were able to get an okay start from the third row and started picking guys off. I made my way to fourth and was running about the same lap times as the guys in front, but I just couldn’t make any ground up. If a bad day is fourth, I’ll take it. Again, I want to say a big thanks to the team; they really worked their tails off.”

JD Beach – Estenson Racing Mission SuperTwins

“The day started out a little rough for us, and we got caught off guard with track prep a little bit. The track started off dry, but then AFT got some water into it, and it started coming around. In the Semi, it was a bit dry again, and I struggled while trying to adapt to it. We had a good direction to go for in the Main and made some forward progress there, but we were still struggling. I wasn’t riding well enough through the turns and had to change my riding style some to suit the track and the bike setup. We didn’t do as well as we hoped, but we learned a lot and are looking forward to the next one.”

Kolby Carlile – Estenson Racing Mission SuperTwins

“It was really tough from the get-go. The track was really dry and dusty the first couple of sessions, and then through the Semi, it was a little notch groove around the bottom. My bike worked decent for that, but it took me a while to get it going. We made some drastic changes before the Main Event, and it seemed to be a little bit better, but it was slippery for everyone. I started so far in the back it was hard for me to make up any time. I put in a good 10 minutes, and I’m happy with how I rode. We tried our best, and we’ll put our heads together and try again in three weeks. I’m looking forward to the Oklahoma Mile. Those big cushion Miles are kind of my forte, and I’m glad to have a fast Yamaha 750 under me and just let her dig.”

Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup: Race One Results From Mugello

David Swarts
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Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup: Race One Results From Mugello
Race Classification for ITA RookiesCup RAC1

 

 

More, from a press release issued by Red Bull:

Taiyo Furusato wins on Rookies Cup debut in Mugello

 

Taiyo Furusato (72) won Race One. Diogo Moreira (92) crossed the line second but was demoted one finishing position for exceeding track limits on the final lap. Photo courtesy Red Bull.
Taiyo Furusato (72) won Race One. Diogo Moreira (92) crossed the line second but was demoted one finishing position for exceeding track limits on the final lap. Photo courtesy Red Bull.

Japanese 15-year-old Taiyo Furusato only rode a KTM for the first time on Friday, had never seen Mugello before and yet took an incredible debut Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup victory.

He got the best of a 17 rider battle that started in spitting rain and ended with a cavalry charge to the line where Furusato just clung on to win.

Diogo Moreira crossed the line second ahead of David Muñoz but had exceeded track limits on the final circuit so was demoted one position. So 15-year-old Spaniard Muñoz claimed the 2nd step on the podium ahead of the 17-year-old Brazilian.

That fabulous battle wasn’t follow-the-leader, it was major position changes all the way. Noah Dettwiler, the 16-year-old Swiss, climbed from the back of the pack to lead a Rookies race for the first time. Pole man Marcos Uriarte dropped to the back and the 16-year-old Spaniard finished 12th. Collin Veijer was brilliant at the front in the tricky early laps but the the 16-year-old Dutchman was 11th at the flag.

Amazing battles all the way but Furusato’s victory stood way out. The fact that he took the lead on lap 4 was sensation enough, riding the RC 250 R for the first time, he didn’t look on the edge either. He smoothly held the advantage for a few laps before the slipstreaming pack demoted him.

It was as though he took time to reassess because when he hit the front again in the final laps he was even more certain and composed, he eked out enough of an advantage so that he could not be passed on the slipstream run to the line.

After winning the first 4 Asia Talent Cup races of the season he had added a sensational Rookies Cup debut win.

Furusato fantastic

“I’m so so happy, as you say, first race, first victory, first time at Mugello and on the KTM, all first, but I could win the race.”

“In the race I could improve and everything felt perfect for me.”

“Yesterday was the first time I had ridden a KTM but I found it’s positive points and the negative points, Today I could use the positive points and work with those.”

And what about tomorrow? He laughs, “Of course I will win the race, or I want to win the race, that’s all.”

David Muñoz much better

“The race was very very good because yesterday was difficult for me. The feeling with the bike was not so good. Today it’s much better the feeling with the bike is good and I’m very happy with it.”

“The track was OK, even with a little rain I had good feeling. Now we can focus on tomorrow and another good race.”

Moreira almost first, almost second

“The race was very good. In the last laps I tried to push very hard because in the first laps I felt the rain and I was careful. Then I tried lap by lap to fight back, tried to get positions each lap. Finally, on the last lap, I got to second and tried to win the race but I touched the green, that’s the race.”

“But I’m happy for the race and tomorrow we have a second one and let’s see. I think the weather will be better, and I will try to win the race,” concluded the Brazilian who is now 1 point off the Cup lead, tied with David Alonso for 2nd.

Holgado holds points lead with 6th

“Today was an incredible race but more difficult than I expected. I did a good job through the race and the result is not bad but I am glad that we have another opportunity tomorrow. Tomorrow I will give more and get a better result.”

He crossed the line 5th only to lose a place for exceeding track limits on the last lap.

“I have to say sorry to my fellow Rookie Mario Aji for the last corner,” added the Cup leader who upset the 17-year-old Indonesian on the last lap as they battled for position.

World Supersport: Race One Results From Estoril

David Swarts
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World Supersport: Race One Results From Estoril
SS Race 1 Results
 SS Race 1 Points

Moto2: Raul Fernandez Captures Pole Position At Mugello

David Swarts
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Moto2: Raul Fernandez Captures Pole Position At Mugello
Moto2 Qual

 

 

 

More, from a press release issued by Dorna:

Fernandez goes back-to-back with pole at Mugello

The rookie sensation does it again to head Lowes and Navarro as rain threatens Moto2™ Q2

After taking his maiden pole at Le Mans, Moto2™ rookie Raul Fernandez (Red Bull KTM Ajo) has done it again and with a new lap record at Mugello, despite rain threatening for the intermediate class. A few drops fell here and there but Fernandez nevertheless bettered the previous best, with Sam Lowes (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team) in second and Jorge Navarro (MB Conveyors Speed Up), just like on Friday, the closest challenger to the two title contenders.

Q1

The star of Q1 was most definitely Fermin Aldeguer (MB Conveyors Speed Up) and not just because he was fastest, but because it’s his first weekend on a Triumph-powered Moto2™ machine, his first race weekend at Mugello and his first World Championship appearance. The 16-year-old moved through to Q2 on first asking, and was joined by Somkiat Chantra (Idemitsu Honda Team Asia), Marcos Ramirez (American Racing) and Bo Bendsneyder (Pertamina Mandalika SAG Team).

Q2

Despite drops of rain coming down at parts of the track, the stage remained set, somehow, for Fernandez to shine. Joe Roberts (Italtrans Racing Team) was the first fastest rider out there, but it only lasted seconds as Fernandez hit back. From there Marco Bezzecchi (Sky Racing Team VR46) and Championship leader Remy Gardner (Red Bull KTM Ajo) had brief stints fastest, but Lowes was the man able to depose and hold onto provisional pole the longest.

Not until the end of the session, however. Fernandez was on a roll and the rookie then slammed in his new lap record, looking to go even faster after that. But the raindrops saw some laps slip away, and it’s his 1:50.723 that becomes the fastest ever Moto2™ lap of Mugello. Lowes takes second as he and the Spaniard continue their duel this weekend, with Navarro, once again, the closest on the chase.

The Grid

Fernandez and Lowes launch from P1 and P2 respectively, with Navarro locking out the front row in a near mirror of the Friday timesheets. Gardner heads Row 2 ahead of home hero Fabio Di Giannantonio (Federal Oil Gresini Moto2), with Tony Arbolino’s (Liqui Moly Intact GP) form going nowhere as the rookie takes sixth.

Marco Bezzecchi will want more from Sunday as he heads up the third row of the grid in P7, ahead of Xavi Vierge (Petronas Sprinta Racing) and Marcel Schrötter (Liqui Moly Intact GP). Joe Roberts will be another who expected more from Saturday as he’ll start 10th.

Roberts’ teammate Lorenzo Dalla Porta takes an impressive step forward to 11th, ahead of Ai Ogura (Idemitsu Honda Team Asia), Augusto Fernandez (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team), Ramirez and Aldeguer, who starts his first ever Moto2™ World Championship race from 15th.

That’s it from Saturday, can Fernandez take the points lead on Sunday as his roll of form continues? Find out at 12:20 (GMT +2).

Raul Fernandez: “I’m really happy to be here again, today the bike was incredible but the important thing isn’t the pole position, it’s Jason. I want to give my support to him, his family, and friends, that’s the improtant thing today.”

 

 

 

More, from a press release issued by Italtrans Racing:

Joe Roberts and Lorenzo Dalla Porta ready to fight from the fourth row at team’s home Grand Prix

After not racing at the Tuscan racetrack in 2020, the MotoGP World Championship is back to Mugello for the Italian Grand Prix. A thrilling weekend for all the Motorsport enthusiastic, even if the audience is still absent.

Italtrans Racing Team is ready to live the home GP, six round of the season, together with Joe Roberts and Lorenzo Dalla Porta.

After the best time in FP1, Roberts had a high side in FP2 fortunately without consequences. Not in the best shape, in qualifying he set the best lap time of 1’51 “541 for the 10th position on the grid. Tomorrow he will start from the 4th row fighting for the first positions.

Home race for Dalla Porta: the Tuscan rider improved his times all weekend long and went directly into Q2 with a good 1’51”881 set in FP3. In qualifying Lorenzo finished 11th – his best position to date – with a time of 1’51”793 and will start tomorrow’s race from the 4th row alongside his team-mate.

 

Lorenzo Dalla Porta (19). Photo courtesy Italtrans Racing.
Lorenzo Dalla Porta (19). Photo courtesy Italtrans Racing.

Lorenzo Dalla Porta

11° | 1’51”793

“Good qualifying, the best of the season. The track changed a lot over the weekend but I adapted easily. We have made real progress and I’m sure I can have a good race tomorrow: the bike is perfect and we are ready to give the best”.

 

Joe Roberts (16). Photo courtesy Italtrans Racing.
Joe Roberts (16). Photo courtesy Italtrans Racing.

Joe Roberts

10° | 1’51”541

“It’s not my best qualifying, but I feel really positive for tomorrow. I struggled physically a little bit after the crash of yesterday. The pace is good and I’m looking forward to the GP at Mugello”.

Giovanni Sandi, Technical Director

“It’s a pity for the rain, but our riders did a good job finishing both in front. Joe didn’t have much feeling with the front, while Lorenzo had his best performance in Moto2. We hope for a good race tomorrow”.

World Superbike: Race One Results From Estoril (Updated)

David Swarts
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World Superbike: Race One Results From Estoril (Updated)
WSBK R1 Results
 WSBK R1 Points

 

 

More, from a press release issued by Dorna:

Redding fends off Razgatlioglu and Rea in epic three-way Race 1 battle

Redding, Razgatlioglu and Rea duel it out at Estoril with the top three covered by less than one second

 

Scott Redding (45) takes the checkered flag ahead of Toprak Razgatlioglu (54) and Jonathan Rea (1) in Race One at Estoril. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Scott Redding (45) takes the checkered flag ahead of Toprak Razgatlioglu (54) and Jonathan Rea (1) in Race One at Estoril. Photo courtesy Dorna.

 

The first race of the Gaerne Estoril Round proved to be a thrilling spectacle that ebbed and flowed throughout between the leading trio at the Circuito Estoril as Scott Redding (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) claimed his second MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship win of the season with the top three separated by less than one second.

Redding and Jonathan Rea (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK) both got a good start but it was the Ducati of Redding who got the jump on Rea on the opening lap before Toprak Razgatlioglu (Pata Yamaha with BRIXX WorldSBK) was able to jump Rea into second place. As Redding and Razgatlioglu broke away at the end of the opening lap, Michael Ruben Rinaldi (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) was able to fight with Rea to pass him on Lap 2, although Rea responded the following lap to move back into the podium places. The trio battled it out throughout the race, with Rea on the SC0 tyre and both Redding and Razgatlioglu on the SCX tyre.

Lucas Mahias (Kawasaki Puccetti Racing) got a good start on his SC0 tyres, one of only six riders to start on that tyre, to move from seventh into fifth on the opening lap before moving down the order as riders who had lost positions through Superpole times being deleted made progress; Mahias would eventually finish in 13th place.

Although the battle for the lead settled down in the middle stages of the race, Rea’s SC0 tyre appeared to hold on more throughout the 21-lap race as he put pressure on Razgatlioglu in the latter stages. Rea was able to get a run on Razgatlioglu on the start and finish straight, although the Turkish star was able to keep the position on the brakes into the right-hander of Turn 1.

It means Redding claimed his first back-to-back wins following his Race 2 victory at the Aragon Round last time out, while Rea stepped onto the podium for the 189th time in his WorldSBK career; while it’s Kawasaki’s first podium at Estoril since 1993.

Garrett Gerloff (GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) finished fourth after fighting back through the field after losing out at the start, including a battle with Rinaldi in fifth; Gerloff passing the Italian rider in the latter stages of the race to claim a top-four finish. Rinaldi was unable to keep his pace going throughout the race and dropped four seconds to Gerloff at the end of the race but was able to finish ahead of Chaz Davies (Team GoEleven) in sixth.

Dutch rider Michael van der Mark (BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) battled from outside the top ten to claim a seventh place finish as the new BMW M 1000 RR showed strong pace yet again, ahead of Alvaro Bautista (Team HRC) after the Spanish rider started 18th following his Superpole time being deleted. Tito Rabat (Barni Racing Team) claimed his best WorldSBK result to date with ninth while Andrea Locatelli (Pata Yamaha with BRIXX WorldSBK) secured a top ten finish after losing out in the early laps of the race.

Axel Bassani (Motocorsa Racing), the youngest rider on the grid, was another rider who had a Superpole time deleted but the Italian rider was able to come home in 11th place and take home his best WorldSBK result to date, five seconds clear of Leon Haslam (Team HRC). Mahias finished in 13th place with Tom Sykes (BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) in 14th despite the British rider moving up the order in the early stages before falling back down. Kohta Nozane (GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) claimed the final point available in Race 1 with 15th place, finishing one second clear of Jonas Folger (Bonovo MGM Action).

Isaac Viñales (Orelac Racing VerdNatura) came home in 17th place on his first visit to Estoril on WorldSBK machinery, while Eugene Laverty (RC Squadra Corse), who had made progress from 13th on the grid to run in the top seven lost the front of his BMW M 1000 RR at Turn 4 when battling with van der Mark, forcing the Irishman to tumble down the order although he was able to rejoin the race. At around the same time on Lap 9, another rider who was making up ground, Alex Lowes (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK) crashed at Turn 7 as he also lost time after fighting from tenth. Like Laverty, he was able to rejoin the race to finish ahead of Loris Cresson (TPR Team Pedercini Racing).

Samuele Cavalieri (TPR Team Pedercini Racing) was one of two retirements in the race following a crash at Turn 7, while Christophe Ponsson (Alstare Yamaha) was the second retirement of the race.

P1 Scott Redding (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati)

“I felt pretty good. I wasn’t really confident before the race because I saw Toprak had quite good pace earlier in the weekend and the two Kawasakis were quite strong today, so I was not really confident. I just said ‘ok, get the start, go to the front and you’re going to have to muscle your way around a little bit’. I was quite good but a couple of small mistakes I was making into Turn 1 were costing me about two tenths that I would gap and then lose it again. In general, quite happy. The tyre kind of worked okay. I went off the start and then I realised I choose the SCX. I was a little bit in panic for a little while, but it stayed quite stable and I think I was quite lucky because Torpak had the same tyre, only Jonathan with the SC0. It was good and it kind of paid off here because it was not so abrasive. We’ll see tomorrow, maybe we’ll try the SC0.

P2 Toprak Razgatlioglu (Pata Yamaha with BRIXX WorldSBK)

“Today, I had a really good start in the race, but I tried to follow Redding because he was really fast, and his sector two times are incredibly fast but I tried in the race just to close the gap. On the last laps, my tyres had a big drop but I was fighting again for first place but not enough. On the last two laps, I see Jonny and I’m pushing again for second because I need these points, I need good points for the Championship. We are happy because again we’re on the podium, but we will see tomorrow because I like this track, I need the win.”

P3 Jonathan Rea (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK)

“I only came through really once; I was alongside into Turn 1 but he’s braking too deep but not losing too much either so kudos to them. Also, Scott in the front. Just when Rinaldi came past in the beginning I just lost touch with the group and I had to work really, really hard to get back on them. It’s like 360 degrees from me because I’ve never been on the podium here, last year was a nightmare, so we’re really making steps and hopefully we can make some small changes for Race 2 tomorrow.”

MotoGP: Quartararo Breaks Lap Record, Takes Pole At Mugello

David Swarts
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MotoGP: Quartararo Breaks Lap Record, Takes Pole At Mugello
MotoGP Qual Comb

 

 

More, from a press release issued by Dorna:

Fantastic four: Quartararo makes it four in a row with pole and a lap record at Mugello

Bagnaia and Zarco give chase, with Aprilia and KTM both right up in the mix on Saturday

Saturday, 29 May 2021

Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) put in a stunner for pole position at the Gran Premio d’Italia Oakley, the Frenchman reporting it was one of his best ever laps as he broke the all-time lap record at Mugello with a 1:45.187. Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) was his closest challenger on the final push but was forced to settle for second, with Johann Zarco (Pramac Racing) taking third in a last lunge; once again top Independent Team rider. That means it’s the Championship top three on the front row on Sunday… with back to-back winner Jack Miller (Ducati Lenovo Team) looking for a good launch from fifth.

Q1

After a crash in the latter stages of FP3, Maverick Viñales (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) found himself down in Q1 and early on, the Spaniard showed his frustration to Takaaki Nakagami (LCR Honda Idemitsu) as the two ended up on the same bit of track and the Spaniard on a fast lap. Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda Team) then tried to follow the number 12 for a tow despite Viñales’ remonstrations, and it worked as Viñales improved and Marquez even more so tucked in behind.

That put Marquez as the rider leading the way, and Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia Racing Team Gresini) managed to push Viñales down to third and outside the graduation zone. The Yamaha rider was then on course to top the session on his final lap, but he rolled out of it despite red sectors and that leaves him down in P13 on the grid as Marc Marquez and Aleix Espargaro moved through.

Q2

Q2 fired up not long after and Quartararo was the man to beat by seven minutes in, the Frenchman on top after the first runs. Heading back out for their final shot at pole, it was again the number 20 setting the timing screens alight too. Nearly half a second clear after his final lap, the Championship leader then had to wait it out to see if anyone could better his best…

Aleix Espargaro was second at the time, with Miguel Oliveira (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) in third as KTM continued to impress. Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) kept that rolling too as he then split the two for a provisional third.

There was more to come. With Yamaha having been mighty through most the track but Ducati often enjoying the edge in the final sector, Bagnaia, Zarco and Miller seemed on course to challenge Quartararo half way round each of their laps. But at the next timing point it seemed the polesitter was set as Bagnaia dropped some tenths, then Miller and then Zarco, with too much left to make up on the Frenchman over the latter half of the lap. Still, given Quartararo’s advantage, the front row remained very much up for grabs and Bagnaia was first to take it, moving into second and cutting the advantage to only a couple of tenths.

What could Miller do? It was a solid effort but not enough to challenge his teammate, and the Austrlian could only manage fifth as he crossed the line. Zarco was tucked in right behind him, however, and the Pramac Racing rider shot from last in the session to third.

The Grid

Quartararo therefore starts the Gran Premio d’Italia Oakley from pole, with Bagnaia and Zarco alongside. Aleix Espargaro improved on his final effort but just misses out on the front row and will instead head the second for Aprilia on home turf.

Miller joins him there in the middle of Row 2, and with the Ducatis’ starts so far this season could still be in with a chance at the holeshot, even from there. Binder wasn’t able to quite improve on his final effort but he completes the second row in more fantastic form from KTM, who also equalled the all-time top speed record in MotoGP™ on Saturday morning with Binder. The South African has also never ridden in MotoGP™ before at this track, as the last visit was in 2019.

KTM teammate Oliveira also impressed as he takes seventh to head up Row 3, with both Suzukis alongside. Alex Rins (Team Suzuki Ecstar) is eighth and teammate and reigning Champion Joan Mir in ninth, the former showing good speed all weekend and the latter making it into Q2 directly for only the second time in 2021 – so it’s a little less work to do on race day.

Franco Morbidelli (Petronas Yamaha SRT) takes tenth, ahead of Marc Marquez and the his Respol Honda teammate Pol Espargaro.

Viñales is next up in P13, ahead of an impressive step forward on Saturday for top rookie Enea Bastianini (Avintia Esponsorama) in 14th. He pipped Takaaki Nakagami as the Japanese rider lost out in Q1, set to start 15th.

Valentino Rossi (Petronas Yamaha SRT) had a tough qualifying, the ‘Doctor’ set to start P19.

The Championship top three are the top three on the grid, back-to-back winner Miller has been a lightning starter and Viñales faces a fight back through the field. What will race day at Mugello bring for MotoGP™? Find out at 14:00 (GMT +2) on Sunday.

Fabio Quartararo: “This morning when I did a 45.6 and I saw Pecco was two tenths faster, I thought wow in qualifying we could get close to 44s. And yes. The first run I made a mistake on my first lap, and I feel the first lap on the tyre is good with our bike. Probably one of my best laps of all time, but I want to dedicate it to Jason. I hope we will have good news coming.”

2021 Ducati Multistrada V4 S, In The May Issue

Trudy Ulrich
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2021 Ducati Multistrada V4 S, In The May Issue

Featured In the May 2021 issue of Roadracing World:    

        The 2021 Ducati MultistradaV4 S is arguably one of the most technologically advanced mass- produced motorcycles currently for sale. Don’t believe it? Consider this: The owner’s manual has 172 pages just covering the dashboard and how to adjust all of the electronic features! And this isn’t a feature-loaded machine that only looks good in photos and on a spec sheet. 

       This motorcycle can actually do it all, and to prove it we did it all—we dragged knee sliders at the race-track, we jumped it five feet off the ground, and in between we put over 500 street miles on it in grand, heated-seat comfort. And we did it all within a week!

            —Quick Look: 2021 Ducati Multistrada V4 S, by David Swarts

 

If you can think of it, the 2021 Ducati Multistrada probably offers it. It is complex, and yet its individual components work and the whole bike performs in sync. Read the story of this groundbreaking machine in the latest issue of Roadracing World!

 

Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology is THE definitive source for motorcycle racing, riding, and tech information.

 

PREVIEW the May 2021 Issue of Roadracing World!

 

Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology magazine is available in print and digital formats. SUBSCRIBE NOW . Or call (909) 654-4779, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time, Monday through Friday. Read the May 2021 issue of Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology with your online subscription. Log in HERE

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Moto3: Tatsuki Suzuki Goes From Q1 To Pole At Mugello

David Swarts
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Moto3: Tatsuki Suzuki Goes From Q1 To Pole At Mugello
Moto3 Qual Comb

World Superbike: Rea Breaks Lap Record, Takes Pole At Estoril

David Swarts
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0
World Superbike: Rea Breaks Lap Record, Takes Pole At Estoril
WSBK Superpole Qual

World Supersport: Caricasulo Takes Pole Position At Estoril

David Swarts
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World Supersport: Caricasulo Takes Pole Position At Estoril
SS Superpole Qual

American Flat Track: Running Results From The Chicago Half-Mile (Updated With Main Events)

The Dirt Oval at Route 66 Raceway. Photo courtesy Route 66 Raceway.
The Dirt Oval at Route 66 Raceway. Photo courtesy Route 66 Raceway.

Chicago Half-Mile/American Flat Track

The Dirt Oval at Route 66 Speedway

Joliet, Illinois

May 29, 2021

AFT Mission SuperTwins Provisional Free Practice 1 Results (all on Dunlop tires):

1. Briar Bauman (Ind), 21.022 seconds

2. Jared Mees (Ind), 21.124

3. Jarod Vanderkooi (Ind), 21.170

4. Sammy Halbert (Ind), 21.209

5. Bronson Bauman (Ind), 21.247

6. Brandon Robinson (Ind), 21.353

7. Kolby Carlile (Yam), 21.399

8. Robert Pearson (Ind), 21.490

9. Brandon Price (Ind), 21.501

10. James Rispoli (Har), 21.660

11. Larry Pegram (Ind), 21.723

12. Davis Fisher (Ind), 21.729

13. JD Beach (Yam), 21.786

 

 

AFT Production Twins Provisional Free Practice 1 Results (all on Dunlop tires):

1. Ben Lowe (Har), 21.755 seconds

2. Ryan Varnes (Kaw), 21.773

3. Johnny Lewis (Roy), 21.873

4. Dylan Bell (Har), 21.935

5. Cory Texter (Yam), 22.045

6. Dalton Gauthier (Har), 22.059

7. Dan Bromley (Yam), 22.144

8. Chad Cose (Har), 22.177

9. Daniel Eslick (Kaw), 22.411

10. Patrick Buchanan (Har), 22.577

11. Jeremiah Duffy (Kaw), 22.658

12. Brock Schwarzenbacher (Kaw), 22.894

13. Cameron Smith (Yam), 22.907

14. Garret Wilson (Kaw), 23.032

15. Mitch Harvat (Kaw), 23.077

16. Jordan Harris (Kaw), 23.296

17. Kasey Sciscoe (Kaw), 23.423

18. Jimmy McAllister (Kaw), 23.736

19. Shelby Miller (Kaw), 23.884

 

 

AFT Singles Provisional Free Practice 1 Results (all on Dunlop tires):

1. Brandon Kitchen (Hus), 21.970 seconds

2. Hunter Bauer (KTM), 21.999

3. Ryan Wells (Hon), 22.024

4. Andrew Luker (Yam), 22.037

5. Michael Inderbitzin (Hon), 22.074

6. Max Whale (KTM), 22.144

7. Kody Kopp (Hon), 22.159

8. Dallas Daniels (Yam), 22.181

9. Travis Petton IV (Hon), 22.181

10. Trent Lowe (Suz), 22.214

11. Tanner Dean (Hon), 22.248

12. Morgen Mischler (KTM), 22.248

13. Michael Rush (Yam), 22.287

14. Cole Zabala (Hon), 22.300

15. Shayna Texter-Bauman (KTM), 22.355

16. Trevor Brunner (Hon), 22.364

17. James Ott (KTM), 22.408

18. Ezra Brusky (Hon), 22.452

19. Grant Holmes (Suz), 22.515

20. Michael Hill (Yam), 22.618

21. Tyler Raggio (Hon), 22.705

22. Jared Lowe (Hon), 22.722

23. David Wiggin (KTM), 22.754

24. Jacob Lehmann (Hon), 22.757

25. Billy Ross (KTM), 22.772

26. Kasey Sciscoe (Hon), 22.788

27. Aidan RoosEvans (KTM), 22.801

28. Tarren Santero (Kaw), 22.839

29. Kevin Stollings (Hon), 22.944

30. Brandon Newman (KTM), 23.066

31. Jordan Jean (Hon), 23.092

32. Blake Steinwagner (Hon), 23.173

33. Kyler Adams (KTM), 23.229

34. Ian Wolfe (Hon), 23.347

35. Trent Pickle (Hus), 23.687

 

 

Royal Enfield Build. Train. Race. Provisional Free Practice 1 Results (all on Dunlop tires):

 

1. Jillian Deschenes (Roy), 25.720 seconds

2. Jaycee Jones (Roy), 25.750

3. Sarah Dixon (Roy), 26.422

4. Erin Ferris (Roy), 27.365

5. Nean Kiskela (Roy), 27.835

6. Malary Lee (Roy), 27.919

7. Lanakila MacNaughton (Roy), 28.313

8. Gabrielle Hughes (Roy), 28.478

9. Bridgette LeBer (Roy), 28.642

 

 

AFT Mission SuperTwins Provisional Qualifying 1 Results (all on Dunlop tires):

1. Briar Bauman (Ind), 20.445 seconds

2. Brandon Robinson (Ind), 20.505

3. Jarod Vanderkooi (Ind), 20.595

4. Jared Mees (Ind), 20.628

5. Bronson Bauman (Ind), 20.649

6. Sammy Halbert (Ind), 20.721

7. Davis Fisher (Ind), 20.770

8. Larry Pegram (Ind), 20.836

9. JD Beach (Yam), 20.843

10. Robert Pearson (Ind), 20.932

11. Brandon Price (Ind), 20.967

12. James Rispoli (Har), 21.011

13. Kolby Carlile (Yam), 21.019

 

 

AFT Production Twins Provisional Qualifying 1 Results (all on Dunlop tires):

1. Dalton Gauthier (Har), 20.713 seconds

2. Chad Cose (Har), 20.983

3. Dylan Bell (Har), 20.988

4. Ben Lowe (Har), 21.081

5. Johnny Lewis (Roy), 21.136

6. Daniel Eslick (Kaw), 21.200

7. Cory Texter (Yam), 21.203

8. Jeremiah Duffy (Kaw), 21.316

9. Ryan Varnes (Kaw), 21.323

10. Patrick Buchanan (Har), 21.366

11. Cameron Smith (Yam), 21.519

12. Kasey Sciscoe (Kaw), 21.533

13. Jordan Harris (Kaw), 21.621

14. Brock Schwarzenbacher (Kaw), 21.651

15. Mitch Harvat (Kaw), 21.869

16. Garret Wilson (Kaw), 21.957

17. Shelby Miller (Kaw), 21.985

18. Jimmy McAllister (Kaw), 22.082

19. Dan Bromley (Yam), 24.752

 

 

AFT Singles Provisional Qualifying 1 Results (all on Dunlop tires):

1. Michael Inderbitzin (Hon), 21.156 seconds

2. Morgen Mischler (KTM), 21.208

3. Brandon Kitchen (Hus), 21.216

4. Trent Lowe (Suz), 21.271

5. Max Whale (KTM), 21.278

6. Trevor Brunner (Hon), 21.293

7. Dallas Daniels (Yam), 21.328

8. Michael Rush (Yam), 21.334

9. Kasey Sciscoe (Hon), 21.334

10. Henry Wiles (Hon), 21.358

11. Tanner Dean (Hon), 21.361

12. Kody Kopp (Hon), 21.418

13. Aidan RoosEvans (KTM), 21.446

14. James Ott (KTM), 21.531

15. Shayna Texter-Bauman (KTM), 21.592

16. Jacob Lehmann (Hon), 21.627

17. Tarren Santero (Kaw), 21.642

18. Hunter Bauer (KTM), 21.656

19. Kevin Stollings (Hon), 21.696

20. Ryan Wells (Hon), 21.699

21. Andrew Luker (Yam), 21.752

22. Tyler Raggio (Hon), 21.758

23. Ezra Brusky (Hon), 21.785

24. Cole Zabala (Hon), 21.789

25. Travis Petton IV (Hon), 21.871

26. Jared Lowe (Hon), 21.897

27. Brandon Newman (KTM), 22.121

28. Trent Pickle (Hus), 22.128

29. Billy Ross (KTM), 22.155

30. Ian Wolfe (Hon), 22.175

31. David Wiggin (KTM), 22.185

32. Kyler Adams (KTM), 22.209

33. Michael Hill (Yam), 22.280

34. Grant Holmes (Suz), 22.425

35. Jordan Jean (Hon), 22.465

36. Blake Steinwagner (Hon), 22.469

 

 

Royal Enfield BUILD. TRAIN. RACE. Provisional Qualifying 1 Results (all on Dunlop tires):

  1. Jillian Deschenes (Roy), 24.286 seconds
  1. Jaycee Jones (Roy), 25.123
  1. Lanakila MacNaughton (Roy), 25.522
  1. Sarah Dixon (Roy), 25.681
  1. Erin Ferris (Roy), 26.136
  1. Malary Lee (Roy), 26.420
  1. Nean Kiskela (Roy), 26.675
  1. Bridgette LeBer (Roy), 27.220
  1. Gabrielle Hughes (Roy), 28.353

 

AFT Mission SuperTwins Provisional Qualifying 2 Results (all on Dunlop tires):

  1. Briar Bauman (Ind), 20.399 seconds
  1. Brandon Robinson (Ind), 20.416
  1. Bronson Bauman (Ind), 20.468
  1. Sammy Halbert (Ind), 20.595
  1. Davis Fisher (Ind), 20.630
  1. Jared Mees (Ind), 20.644
  1. Jarod Vanderkooi (Ind), 20.655
  1. Brandon Price (Ind), 20.713
  1. JD Beach (Yam), 20.737
  1. Robert Pearson (Ind), 20.745
  1. Larry Pegram (Ind), 20.765
  1. James Rispoli (Har), 20.766
  1. Kolby Carlile (Yam), 20.850

 

AFT Production Twins Provisional Qualifying 2 Results (all on Dunlop tires):

  1. Dalton Gauthier (Har), 20.756 seconds
  1. Chad Cose (Har), 20.808
  1. Dan Bromley (Yam), 20.839
  1. Cory Texter (Yam), 20.930
  1. Johnny Lewis (Roy), 20.933
  1. Dylan Bell (Har), 20.989
  1. Ben Lowe (Har), 21.034
  1. Daniel Eslick (Kaw), 21.048
  1. Ryan Varnes (Kaw), 21.132
  1. Jeremiah Duffy (Kaw), 21.335
  1. Cameron Smith (Yam), 21.362
  1. Patrick Buchanan (Har), 21.375
  1. Kasey Sciscoe (Kaw), 21.546
  1. Jordan Harris (Kaw), 21.580
  1. Mitch Harvat (Kaw), 21.743
  1. Shelby Miller (Kaw), 21.851
  1. Jimmy McAllister (Kaw), 21.880
  1. Garret Wilson (Kaw), 21.926

 

AFT Singles Provisional Qualifying 2 Results (all on Dunlop tires):

  1. Morgen Mischler (KTM), 21.100 seconds
  2. Brandon Kitchen (Hus), 21.129
  3. Trent Lowe (Suz), 21.140
  4. Max Whale (KTM), 21.148
  5. Trevor Brunner (Hon), 21.183
  6. Michael Inderbitzin (Hon), 21.194
  7. Henry Wiles (Hon), 21.200
  8. Tanner Dean (Hon), 21.290
  9. Dallas Daniels (Yam), 21.303
  10. Kody Kopp (Hon), 21.358
  11. Shayna Texter-Bauman (KTM), 21.377
  12. Kasey Sciscoe (Hon), 21.385
  13. Michael Rush (Yam), 21.401
  14. Jacob Lehmann (Hon), 21.468
  15. Kevin Stollings (Hon), 21.499
  16. Tyler Raggio (Hon), 21.499
  17. Ryan Wells (Hon), 21.542
  18. Ezra Brusky (Hon), 21.549
  19. Andrew Luker (Yam), 21.582
  20. Aidan RoosEvans (KTM), 21.597
  21. Hunter Bauer (KTM), 21.684
  22. James Ott (KTM), 21.706
  23. Tarren Santero (Kaw), 21.708
  24. Jared Lowe (Hon), 21.718
  25. Travis Petton IV (Hon), 21.807
  26. Trent Pickle (Hus), 21.863
  27. Cole Zabala (Hon), 21.880
  28. Brandon Newman (KTM), 21.941
  29. Billy Ross (KTM), 21.947
  30. David Wiggin (KTM), 22.000
  31. Blake Steinwagner (Hon), 22.106
  32. Jordan Jean (Hon), 22.108
  33. Michael Hill (Yam), 22.131
  34. Kyler Adams (KTM), 22.212
  35. Grant Holmes (Suz), 22.384
  36. Ian Wolfe (Hon), no time recorded

Royal Enfield Build. Train. Race. Semi Results (all on Dunlop tires):

1. Jillian Deschenes (Roy), 5 laps
2. Sarah Dixon (Roy), -10.444 seconds
3. Bridgette LeBer (Roy), -12.112
4. Malary Lee (Roy), -12.153
5. Nean Kiskela (Roy), -12.999
6. Erin Ferris (Roy), -24.712
7. Lanakila MacNaughton (Roy), -2 laps
8. Gabrielle Hughes (Roy), -2 laps, 25.820
9. Jaycee Jones (Roy), -4 laps

 

Provisional Mission SuperTwins Semi 1 Results (all on Dunlop tires):

1. Bronson Bauman (Ind), 8 laps

2. Sammy Halbert (Ind), -00.764 seconds

3. Briar Bauman (Ind), -00.892

4. Davis Fisher (Ind), -01.674

5. JD Beach (Yam), -03.024

6. Kolby Carlile (Yam), -03.087

7. Larry Pegram (Ind), -03.594


Provisional Mission SuperTwins Semi 2 Results (all on Dunlop tires):

1. Jared Mees (Ind), 8 laps

2. Brandon Robinson (Ind), -00.518 seconds

3. Brandon Price (Ind), -02.151

4. Jarod Vanderkooi (Ind), -02.262

5. Robert Pearson (Ind), -02.718

6. James Rispoli (Har), -03.359

Provisional AFT Production Twins Semi 1 Results (all on Dunlop tires):

1. Dalton Gauthier (Har), 8 laps

2. Johnny Lewis (Roy), -00.660 seconds

3. Dan Bromley (Yam), -01.185

4. Ben Lowe (Har), -01.287

5. Ryan Varnes (Kaw), -01.486

6. Kasey Sciscoe (Kaw), -03.127

7. Cameron Smith (Yam), -03.356

8. Brock Schwarzenbacher (Kaw), -04.272

9. Shelby Miller (Kaw), -06.875

10. Garret Wilson (Kaw), -07.221

Provisional AFT Production Twins Semi 2 Results (all on Dunlop tires):

1. Daniel Eslick (Kaw), 8 laps

2. Cory Texter (Yam), -00.089 seconds

3. Chad Cose (Har), -00.785

4. Dylan Bell (Har), -02.186

5. Jeremiah Duffy (Kaw), -02.625

6. Patrick Buchanan (Har), -04.203

7. Jordan Harris (Kaw), -04.651

8. Mitch Harvat (Kaw), -08.027

9. Jimmy McAllister (Kaw), -7 laps

Provisional AFT Singles Semi 1 Results (all on Dunlop tires):

1. Morgen Mischler (KTM), 8 laps

2. Michael Inderbitzin (Hon), -00.074 seconds

3. Henry Wiles (Hon), -00.222

4. Trent Lowe (Suz), -00.702

5. Dallas Daniels (Yam), -01.052

6. Shayna Texter-Bauman (KTM), -01.296

7. Cole Zabala (Hon), -01.694

8. Hunter Bauer (KTM), -03.191

9. Kasey Sciscoe (Hon), -03.318

10. Andrew Luker (Yam), -03.618

11. Ryan Wells (Hon), -03.880

12. Jacob Lehmann (Hon), -04.061

13. Trent Pickle (Hus), -04.534

14. Tyler Raggio (Hon), -04.759

15. Billy Ross (KTM), -05.352

16. Blake Steinwagner (Hon), -07.430

Provisional AFT Singles Semi 2 Results (all on Dunlop tires):

1. Max Whale (KTM), 8 laps

2. Michael Rush (Yam), -00.645 seconds

3. Tanner Dean (Hon), -01.377

4. Trevor Brunner (Hon), -02.158

5. Kevin Stollings (Hon), -02.310

6. James Ott (KTM), -02.470

7. Aidan RoosEvans (KTM), -02.683

8. Ezra Brusky (Hon), -02.823

9. Brandon Kitchen (Hus), -02.916

10. Tarren Santero (Kaw), -03.265
11. Kody Kopp (Hon), -03.748

12. David Wiggin (KTM), -04.054

13. Jared Lowe (Hon), -04.805

14. Brandon Newman (KTM), -05.816

15. Jordan Jean (Hon), -06.271

16. Travis Petton IV (Hon), -07.008

Provisional Royal Enfield Build. Train. Race. Main Event Results (all on Dunlop tires):

1. Jillian Deschenes (Roy), 6 laps

2. Jaycee Jones (Roy), -00.847 seconds

3. Sarah Dixon (Roy), -05.493

4. Erin Ferris (Roy), -07.142

5. Malary Lee (Roy), -08.934

6. Bridgette LeBer (Roy), -09.168

7. Nean Kiskela (Roy), -09.336

8. Gabrielle Hughes (Roy), -23.962

9. Lanakila MacNaughton (Roy), -6 laps

Provisional Mission SuperTwins Mission Challenge Results (all on Dunlop tires):

1. Brandon Robinson (Ind), 4 laps

2. Bronson Bauman (Ind), -00.320 seconds

3. Jared Mees (Ind), -00.654

4. Sammy Halbert (Ind), -05.288

Provisional AFT Production Twins Main Event Results (all on Dunlop tires):

1. Cory Texter (Yam), 24 laps

2. Chad Cose (Har), -00.114 seconds

3. Danny Eslick (Kaw), -01.346

4. Ben Lowe (Har), -01.712

5. Ryan Varnes (Kaw), -03.777

6. Cameron Smith (Yam), -03.952

7. Dalton Gauthier (Har), -06.097

8. Johnny Lewis (Roy), -07.812

9. Kasey Sciscoe (Kaw), -08.052

10. Dylan Bell (Har), -08.271

11. Jeremiah Duffy (Kaw), -11.292

12. Dan Bromley (Yam), -11.591

13. Patrick Buchanan (Har), -12.675

14. Jordan Harris (Kaw), -15.266

15. Shelby Miller (Kaw), -20.204

16. Mitch Harvat (Kaw), -21.637

17. Brock Schwarzenbacher (Kaw), -13 laps

Provisional AFT Singles Main Event Results (all on Dunlop tires):

1. Max Whale (KTM), 25 laps

2. Morgen Mischler (KTM), -00.550 seconds

3. Michael Rush (Yam), -00.722

4. Dallas Daniels (Yam), -02.462

5. Michael Inderbitzin (Hon), -04.155

6. Trent Lowe (Suz), -05.191

7. Kevin Stollings (Hon), -06.348

8. Trevor Brunner (Hon), -06.402

9. Cole Zabala (Hon), -06.529

10. Shayna Texter-Bauman (KTM), -06.757

11. Henry Wiles (Hon), -06.898

12. Tanner Dean (Hon), -07.053

13. James Ott (KTM), -07.418

14. Brandon Kitchen (Hus), -07.603

15. Hunter Bauer (KTM), -08.170

16. Ezra Brusky (Hon), -11.357

17. Aidan RoosEvans (KTM), -11.928

Provisional Mission SuperTwins Main Event Results (all on Dunlop tires):

1. Briar Bauman (Ind), 31 laps

2. Jarod Vanderkooi (Ind), -01.184 seconds

3. Jared Mees (Ind), -03.530

4. Brandon Robinson (Ind), -06.303

5. Bronson Bauman (Ind), -06.557

6. Brandon Price (Ind), -07.289

7. Davis Fisher (Ind), -08.614

8. JD Beach (Yam), -08.669

9. Robert Pearson (Ind), -10.089

10. Kolby Carlile (Yam), -10.204

11. James Rispoli (Har), -12.323

12. Larry Pegram (Ind), -12.531

13. Sammy Halbert (Ind), -31 laps

 

 

 

More, from a press release issued by American Flat Track:

Bauman Rediscovers the Fire at Chicago Half-Mile

 

Briar Bauman. Photo courtesy AFT.
Briar Bauman. Photo courtesy AFT.

JOLIET, Ill. (May 29, 2021) – Briar Bauman (No. 1 Indian Motorcycle/Progressive Insurance FTR750) reminded the Progressive American Flat Track world precisely why he’s the two-time defending Grand National Champion with a dominant performance in Saturday’s Chicago Half-Mile at the Dirt Oval at Route 66 Speedway in Joliet, Illinois.

The victory couldn’t come soon enough for Bauman, who lined up for the evening’s Main Event burdened by an uncharacteristic eight-race Mission SuperTwins presented by S&S Cycle wins drought.

Early on, it looked as if Bauman was going to have to pull it out of his helmet if he were to end his winless streak on this night. A wild opening several minutes saw him repeatedly cross lines and swap positions as part of a energized five-rider lead pack that also included his brother Bronson Bauman (No. 37 Indian Motorcycle of Oklahoma City FTR750), Jared Mees (No. 9 Indian Motorcycle/Progressive Insurance FTR750), Jarod Vanderkooi (No. 20 Mission Roof Systems Indian FTR750), and Brandon Robinson (No. 44 Mission Roof Systems Indian FTR750).

Unfortunately, that scintillating multi-line dogfight for victory was cut short near mid-distance when Mees got into the back of Robinson’s machine. In a slow-developing incident, Mees was stood up twice and was nearly thrown over the bars. Ultimately, he held on and stayed upright, but Robinson was not nearly so lucky as his bike was spun out from underneath him.

Moments later, James Rispoli (No. 43 Latus Motors Racing Harley-Davidson XG750R Rev X) joined Robinson on the deck, crashing as a result of the evasive action he took to avoid striking the downed rider. Robinson initially appeared destined for an ambulance ride but instead was cleared to line up at the very back of the staggered restart on his backup FTR750.

Reigning champion Bauman took point at the front of the staggered restart and put on a clinic from that point forward. He gradually gapped Mees, who later found himself more concerned with the looming presence of Vanderkooi in third. That concern was validated when Vanderkooi made his way through and locked down his second career premier-class runner-up in as many attempts. Mees continued on in third, which came as some relief considering he’s still on the mend with an injured left knee.

Bauman’s triumph not only put him back on top of the box, it also elevated him into the points lead for the first time in 2021.

After the race, he said, “Honestly, I’m just happy to be here racing again. I tried to say I wasn’t counting, but I was. It’s a weird deal; we were so dominant the second half of the season last year, and I haven’t been at all (in 2021). I’m going to be honest, the fire wasn’t there at all. I’ve been kind of burnt out on a lot of things and just kind of enjoying my time at home with Shayna (Texter-Bauman) and my dog.

“Right now, the fire is back.”

Fourth went to an inspired Robinson, who translated his adrenaline, anger, and frontrunning pace into a fourth-place finish despite being forced to charge his way up through the pack. The result came as little comfort to Robinson, who felt like he’d been robbed of a golden opportunity for victory after earlier winning the Mission Challenge.

The younger Bauman rounded out the top five, with Brandon Price (No. 92 Mission Roof Systems Indian FTR750), Davis Fisher (No. 67 BMC Racing/Dick Wall 60 Indian FTR750), JD Beach (No. 95 Estenson Racing Yamaha MT-07 DT), Robert Pearson (No. 27 Rackley Racing/John Franklin Indian FTR750), and Kolby Carlile (No. 36 Estenson Racing Yamaha MT-07 DT) completing the top ten.

 

AFT Singles

Few AFT Singles riders came into the Chicago Half-Mile so hungry for a win as Mikey Rush (No. 15 Estenson Racing Yamaha YZ450F), Morgen Mischler (No. 13 Mission Roof Systems KTM 450 SX-F) and Max Whale (No. 18 Red Bull KTM Factory Racing 450 SX-FFE) — and for good reason.

The trio has repeatedly factored heavily for victory only to come up just short dating back to Rush’s mid-season 2020 win. In fact, in the series’ previous 11 races, the three combined to rack up 11 podiums — including seven runner-ups — with zero wins.

That was bound to end on Saturday as Rush, Mischler, and Whale quickly took formation in a three-wide group powering away from the remainder of the field. Rush controlled the opening laps after getting the holeshot, Mischler used the high line to run out front in the middle portions of the contest, while Whale surged forward with a pair of inside maneuvers to claim the lead with three minutes remaining. After that, the Aussie proved unassailable even if he couldn’t completely shake free from the pressure of Mischler and Rush.

The win was Whale’s first since earning his maiden Progressive AFT victory at the 2020 Volusia season opener.

He said, “That Main Event was so much fun. I found a line early on in the race that was working well. As the race went on, I noticed a front wheel a couple times on the inside and the outside, so I knew I could change it up. I started switching up my line about halfway through and found one and it stayed there. I’m so pumped about that.”

The final bit of drama took place when Mischler’s machine puffed a bit of smoke on the final lap just as Rush was closing in, only to completely let loose when Mischler took the checkered flag 0.172 seconds ahead in second.

Despite never challenging for the win, reigning class champion Dallas Daniels (No. 1 Estenson Racing Yamaha YZ450F) continues to lead the title fight — albeit only by a point over teammate Rush — after taking a relatively quiet fourth. Daniels was followed home by Michael Inderbitzin (No. 54 Pacific Tub & Tile Honda CRF450R), who rounded out the top five.

 

AFT Production Twins presented by Vance & Hines

Cory Texter (No. 65 G&G Racing/Roof Systems Yamaha MT-07) outdueled Chad Cose (No. 49 Voodoo Ranger/Roof Systems Harley-Davidson XG750R) in a stunning late-race shootout to become the first AFT Production Twins presented by Vance & Hines rider to score a second victory in 2021.

The battle gradually took shape over the course of a highly entertaining Main Event as the early thrills at the front were delivered by the likes of Dalton Gauthier (No. 79 D&D Cycles/Vance & Hines Harley-Davidson XG750R), Danny Eslick (No. 64 Pro One Industries Kawasaki Ninja 650), Johnny Lewis (No. 10 Moto Anatomy X Powered by Royal Enfield Twins FT), and Ben Lowe (No. 25 Mission Roof Systems Harley-Davidson XG750R).

At mid-distance Eslick was doing all that he could to fend off a fleet of Harleys aboard his Kawasaki from the low line, at least until Cose made his move. The Californian went around Eslick and then up the inside of Lowe in rapid succession and put his head down in a bid to escape.

Texter, meanwhile, systematically worked his way forward from further behind, closing in on Cose as the minutes ticked away. Once Texter decided to make his push for the win, the jockeying kicked into high gear. The final minute (plus two laps) saw the two trade the lead back and forth on five occasions, with Texter executing the final maneuver just as the two took the white flag.

Cose made one last desperate attempt around the outside but came up 0.114 seconds short at the checkered flag.

Texter relished in proving his doubters wrong yet again. After the race he said, “I know these guys are super talented — they’re probably more talented than me. But I just don’t feel like anybody is putting the work in that I am, day after day, and I have to because these guys are such good riders.

“It was a crazy race. I was back there, but I just don’t quit. I wanted to win it so bad. Chad rode such a good race; it’s fun when you can race one of your buddies because it was just like we were in the backyard play riding. That was awesome.”

Daytona 200 legend Eslick rounded out the podium with Lowe a few tenths back fourth. Ryan Varnes (No. 68 RVR/RoyBuilt Don’s Kawasaki Ninja 650) marched his way up through the pack to complete the top five while early-race contenders Gauthier and Lewis faded to seventh and eighth, respectively.

The Chicago Half-Mile will air on NBCSN on Sunday, June 6, starting at 5:00 p.m. ET/2:00 p.m. PT. The broadcast will include exclusive features, cutting-edge aerial drone and onboard footage, and the expert commentary of Progressive AFT legend Chris Carr.

 

Next Up:

The stars of Progressive AFT will test the upper limits of speed, bravery, and excitement when the series unleashes the first Mile action of the season doubleheader style. The Indian Motorcycle of Oklahoma City OKC Mile I & II presented by KICKER at Remington Park in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, will take place on Friday, June 18, and Saturday, June 19. Tickets are available for purchase now at https://store.americanflattrack.com/ebooking/ticket/view/id/3323/#selectTickets. For those viewing from home, live coverage will be available on any device for only $1.99 a month via TrackPass on NBC Sports Gold.

For more information on Progressive AFT visit https://www.americanflattrack.com.

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

 

 

 

More, from a press release issued by Yamaha:

Rush Extends Podium Streak at Chicago Half-Mile

Estenson Racing’s Mikey Rush is now the only rider in the paddock with an unblemished podium record this season, finishing third in the Progressive American Flat Track AFT Singles Main Event last night at the Chicago Half-Mile. He now trails teammate and defending class champion Dallas Daniels by just a single point for the championship lead after the Illinois rider finished fourth at the Dirt Oval at Route 66 Speedway. Their efforts were then backed up by a pair of top-10s from JD Beach and Kolby Carlile, who finished the Mission SuperTwins Main Event in eighth and 10th, respectively.

Rush got the holeshot in the AFT Singles Main, slotting his Yamaha YZ450F into the lead off the line. The race transformed into an intense three-rider scrap for the win. After running out front for the opening minutes, Rush was displaced to third as the clock ticked down but remained a constant presence in the battle for victory. The Californian upped the pressure over the race’s final two laps, closing dramatically on the rear wheels of his opponents, finishing less than eight tenths off the win and less than two tenths back of second.

Daniels had the pace but not the path to emerge as the fourth rider in victory contention at his first home round of the season. The Illinois native was forced to start from the third row after struggling in his Semi. He did what he could to get away from the start in seventh, but by the time he made his way up into fourth, there wasn’t enough time to close the gap to the three riders in front of him. Despite that, Daniels collected his fifth finish of fourth or better in as many tries in 2021 – including his sensational two-class double win in Atlanta – to retain the early AFT Singles points lead.

Beach kept himself firmly in the Mission SuperTwins championship mix as well, with another solid finish on Saturday. After searching for an ideal set-up all day on an evolving track, Beach fought his way forward in the Main following the race’s restart. At that point, he pushed as high up the order as sixth before ultimately finishing in eighth. Carlile faced similar issues with the changing surface but still managed to finished 10th aboard the second Yamaha MT-07 DT to keep the team’s perfect streak of top 10s alive. As a result, Beach currently ranks second and Carlile eighth in the season-long fight for the Grand National Championship.

Estenson Racing will open their Yamahas up and battle at high speed when the season resumes at Remington Park for the OKC Mile doubleheader in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, on June 18-19.

Tommy Hayden – Estenson Racing Team Manager

“We’re really excited to be back racing here in Joliet today. Unfortunately, it just seemed like from the beginning of the day, all of our guys were just a little bit off and struggling. We made improvements throughout the day, and we were getting a little closer as the day went on. In the Main Event, I think all of our guys were the most competitive they had been all day. Although we didn’t quite end up with the results that we had hoped for, we learned a lot, and we’re definitely looking forward to getting on a Mile track in Oklahoma in a few weeks.”

Mikey Rush – Estenson Racing AFT Singles

“I’m stoked to get another podium this weekend in Chicago. From where we started the day off in qualifying and struggling a bit, it was a big weight off my shoulders to get on the box again. At the same time, I just really want to get that race win for the team. The team worked their tails off, making changes all day long, and everything was awesome for the main. I’m looking forward to Oklahoma. We’re going to keep chipping away to try and get a race win. We’re sitting good in the points, just a point off of Dallas in first. I’m just going to keep doing what I’m doing during the week and show up ready to go.”

Dallas Daniels – Estenson Racing AFT Singles

“In practice, the track turned into a one-line groove, and you couldn’t really move around. They ended up doing some track prep, and for the Semi, the track was completely different. You could ride above the groove, and it was way faster, but we went the wrong direction in setup and ended up fifth in the Semi, which was not good at all. We had a third-row start for the Main Event, and that hurt us a lot. The team did a tremendous job, it was a scramble to get ready, but we were able to get an okay start from the third row and started picking guys off. I made my way to fourth and was running about the same lap times as the guys in front, but I just couldn’t make any ground up. If a bad day is fourth, I’ll take it. Again, I want to say a big thanks to the team; they really worked their tails off.”

JD Beach – Estenson Racing Mission SuperTwins

“The day started out a little rough for us, and we got caught off guard with track prep a little bit. The track started off dry, but then AFT got some water into it, and it started coming around. In the Semi, it was a bit dry again, and I struggled while trying to adapt to it. We had a good direction to go for in the Main and made some forward progress there, but we were still struggling. I wasn’t riding well enough through the turns and had to change my riding style some to suit the track and the bike setup. We didn’t do as well as we hoped, but we learned a lot and are looking forward to the next one.”

Kolby Carlile – Estenson Racing Mission SuperTwins

“It was really tough from the get-go. The track was really dry and dusty the first couple of sessions, and then through the Semi, it was a little notch groove around the bottom. My bike worked decent for that, but it took me a while to get it going. We made some drastic changes before the Main Event, and it seemed to be a little bit better, but it was slippery for everyone. I started so far in the back it was hard for me to make up any time. I put in a good 10 minutes, and I’m happy with how I rode. We tried our best, and we’ll put our heads together and try again in three weeks. I’m looking forward to the Oklahoma Mile. Those big cushion Miles are kind of my forte, and I’m glad to have a fast Yamaha 750 under me and just let her dig.”

Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup: Race One Results From Mugello

Action from Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup Race One at Mugello. Photo courtesy Red Bull.
Action from Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup Race One at Mugello in 2021. Photo courtesy Red Bull.
Race Classification for ITA RookiesCup RAC1

 

 

More, from a press release issued by Red Bull:

Taiyo Furusato wins on Rookies Cup debut in Mugello

 

Taiyo Furusato (72) won Race One. Diogo Moreira (92) crossed the line second but was demoted one finishing position for exceeding track limits on the final lap. Photo courtesy Red Bull.
Taiyo Furusato (72) won Race One. Diogo Moreira (92) crossed the line second but was demoted one finishing position for exceeding track limits on the final lap. Photo courtesy Red Bull.

Japanese 15-year-old Taiyo Furusato only rode a KTM for the first time on Friday, had never seen Mugello before and yet took an incredible debut Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup victory.

He got the best of a 17 rider battle that started in spitting rain and ended with a cavalry charge to the line where Furusato just clung on to win.

Diogo Moreira crossed the line second ahead of David Muñoz but had exceeded track limits on the final circuit so was demoted one position. So 15-year-old Spaniard Muñoz claimed the 2nd step on the podium ahead of the 17-year-old Brazilian.

That fabulous battle wasn’t follow-the-leader, it was major position changes all the way. Noah Dettwiler, the 16-year-old Swiss, climbed from the back of the pack to lead a Rookies race for the first time. Pole man Marcos Uriarte dropped to the back and the 16-year-old Spaniard finished 12th. Collin Veijer was brilliant at the front in the tricky early laps but the the 16-year-old Dutchman was 11th at the flag.

Amazing battles all the way but Furusato’s victory stood way out. The fact that he took the lead on lap 4 was sensation enough, riding the RC 250 R for the first time, he didn’t look on the edge either. He smoothly held the advantage for a few laps before the slipstreaming pack demoted him.

It was as though he took time to reassess because when he hit the front again in the final laps he was even more certain and composed, he eked out enough of an advantage so that he could not be passed on the slipstream run to the line.

After winning the first 4 Asia Talent Cup races of the season he had added a sensational Rookies Cup debut win.

Furusato fantastic

“I’m so so happy, as you say, first race, first victory, first time at Mugello and on the KTM, all first, but I could win the race.”

“In the race I could improve and everything felt perfect for me.”

“Yesterday was the first time I had ridden a KTM but I found it’s positive points and the negative points, Today I could use the positive points and work with those.”

And what about tomorrow? He laughs, “Of course I will win the race, or I want to win the race, that’s all.”

David Muñoz much better

“The race was very very good because yesterday was difficult for me. The feeling with the bike was not so good. Today it’s much better the feeling with the bike is good and I’m very happy with it.”

“The track was OK, even with a little rain I had good feeling. Now we can focus on tomorrow and another good race.”

Moreira almost first, almost second

“The race was very good. In the last laps I tried to push very hard because in the first laps I felt the rain and I was careful. Then I tried lap by lap to fight back, tried to get positions each lap. Finally, on the last lap, I got to second and tried to win the race but I touched the green, that’s the race.”

“But I’m happy for the race and tomorrow we have a second one and let’s see. I think the weather will be better, and I will try to win the race,” concluded the Brazilian who is now 1 point off the Cup lead, tied with David Alonso for 2nd.

Holgado holds points lead with 6th

“Today was an incredible race but more difficult than I expected. I did a good job through the race and the result is not bad but I am glad that we have another opportunity tomorrow. Tomorrow I will give more and get a better result.”

He crossed the line 5th only to lose a place for exceeding track limits on the last lap.

“I have to say sorry to my fellow Rookie Mario Aji for the last corner,” added the Cup leader who upset the 17-year-old Indonesian on the last lap as they battled for position.

World Supersport: Race One Results From Estoril

Circuito Estoril in Portugal. Photo courtesy Eurosport Events.
Circuito Estoril in Portugal. Photo courtesy Eurosport Events.
SS Race 1 Results
 SS Race 1 Points

Moto2: Raul Fernandez Captures Pole Position At Mugello

Raul Fernandez (25). Photo courtesy Red Bull KTM Ajo.
Raul Fernandez (25). Photo courtesy Red Bull KTM Ajo.
Moto2 Qual

 

 

 

More, from a press release issued by Dorna:

Fernandez goes back-to-back with pole at Mugello

The rookie sensation does it again to head Lowes and Navarro as rain threatens Moto2™ Q2

After taking his maiden pole at Le Mans, Moto2™ rookie Raul Fernandez (Red Bull KTM Ajo) has done it again and with a new lap record at Mugello, despite rain threatening for the intermediate class. A few drops fell here and there but Fernandez nevertheless bettered the previous best, with Sam Lowes (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team) in second and Jorge Navarro (MB Conveyors Speed Up), just like on Friday, the closest challenger to the two title contenders.

Q1

The star of Q1 was most definitely Fermin Aldeguer (MB Conveyors Speed Up) and not just because he was fastest, but because it’s his first weekend on a Triumph-powered Moto2™ machine, his first race weekend at Mugello and his first World Championship appearance. The 16-year-old moved through to Q2 on first asking, and was joined by Somkiat Chantra (Idemitsu Honda Team Asia), Marcos Ramirez (American Racing) and Bo Bendsneyder (Pertamina Mandalika SAG Team).

Q2

Despite drops of rain coming down at parts of the track, the stage remained set, somehow, for Fernandez to shine. Joe Roberts (Italtrans Racing Team) was the first fastest rider out there, but it only lasted seconds as Fernandez hit back. From there Marco Bezzecchi (Sky Racing Team VR46) and Championship leader Remy Gardner (Red Bull KTM Ajo) had brief stints fastest, but Lowes was the man able to depose and hold onto provisional pole the longest.

Not until the end of the session, however. Fernandez was on a roll and the rookie then slammed in his new lap record, looking to go even faster after that. But the raindrops saw some laps slip away, and it’s his 1:50.723 that becomes the fastest ever Moto2™ lap of Mugello. Lowes takes second as he and the Spaniard continue their duel this weekend, with Navarro, once again, the closest on the chase.

The Grid

Fernandez and Lowes launch from P1 and P2 respectively, with Navarro locking out the front row in a near mirror of the Friday timesheets. Gardner heads Row 2 ahead of home hero Fabio Di Giannantonio (Federal Oil Gresini Moto2), with Tony Arbolino’s (Liqui Moly Intact GP) form going nowhere as the rookie takes sixth.

Marco Bezzecchi will want more from Sunday as he heads up the third row of the grid in P7, ahead of Xavi Vierge (Petronas Sprinta Racing) and Marcel Schrötter (Liqui Moly Intact GP). Joe Roberts will be another who expected more from Saturday as he’ll start 10th.

Roberts’ teammate Lorenzo Dalla Porta takes an impressive step forward to 11th, ahead of Ai Ogura (Idemitsu Honda Team Asia), Augusto Fernandez (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team), Ramirez and Aldeguer, who starts his first ever Moto2™ World Championship race from 15th.

That’s it from Saturday, can Fernandez take the points lead on Sunday as his roll of form continues? Find out at 12:20 (GMT +2).

Raul Fernandez: “I’m really happy to be here again, today the bike was incredible but the important thing isn’t the pole position, it’s Jason. I want to give my support to him, his family, and friends, that’s the improtant thing today.”

 

 

 

More, from a press release issued by Italtrans Racing:

Joe Roberts and Lorenzo Dalla Porta ready to fight from the fourth row at team’s home Grand Prix

After not racing at the Tuscan racetrack in 2020, the MotoGP World Championship is back to Mugello for the Italian Grand Prix. A thrilling weekend for all the Motorsport enthusiastic, even if the audience is still absent.

Italtrans Racing Team is ready to live the home GP, six round of the season, together with Joe Roberts and Lorenzo Dalla Porta.

After the best time in FP1, Roberts had a high side in FP2 fortunately without consequences. Not in the best shape, in qualifying he set the best lap time of 1’51 “541 for the 10th position on the grid. Tomorrow he will start from the 4th row fighting for the first positions.

Home race for Dalla Porta: the Tuscan rider improved his times all weekend long and went directly into Q2 with a good 1’51”881 set in FP3. In qualifying Lorenzo finished 11th – his best position to date – with a time of 1’51”793 and will start tomorrow’s race from the 4th row alongside his team-mate.

 

Lorenzo Dalla Porta (19). Photo courtesy Italtrans Racing.
Lorenzo Dalla Porta (19). Photo courtesy Italtrans Racing.

Lorenzo Dalla Porta

11° | 1’51”793

“Good qualifying, the best of the season. The track changed a lot over the weekend but I adapted easily. We have made real progress and I’m sure I can have a good race tomorrow: the bike is perfect and we are ready to give the best”.

 

Joe Roberts (16). Photo courtesy Italtrans Racing.
Joe Roberts (16). Photo courtesy Italtrans Racing.

Joe Roberts

10° | 1’51”541

“It’s not my best qualifying, but I feel really positive for tomorrow. I struggled physically a little bit after the crash of yesterday. The pace is good and I’m looking forward to the GP at Mugello”.

Giovanni Sandi, Technical Director

“It’s a pity for the rain, but our riders did a good job finishing both in front. Joe didn’t have much feeling with the front, while Lorenzo had his best performance in Moto2. We hope for a good race tomorrow”.

World Superbike: Race One Results From Estoril (Updated)

Circuito Estoril in Portugal. Photo courtesy Eurosport Events.
Circuito Estoril in Portugal. Photo courtesy Eurosport Events.
WSBK R1 Results
 WSBK R1 Points

 

 

More, from a press release issued by Dorna:

Redding fends off Razgatlioglu and Rea in epic three-way Race 1 battle

Redding, Razgatlioglu and Rea duel it out at Estoril with the top three covered by less than one second

 

Scott Redding (45) takes the checkered flag ahead of Toprak Razgatlioglu (54) and Jonathan Rea (1) in Race One at Estoril. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Scott Redding (45) takes the checkered flag ahead of Toprak Razgatlioglu (54) and Jonathan Rea (1) in Race One at Estoril. Photo courtesy Dorna.

 

The first race of the Gaerne Estoril Round proved to be a thrilling spectacle that ebbed and flowed throughout between the leading trio at the Circuito Estoril as Scott Redding (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) claimed his second MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship win of the season with the top three separated by less than one second.

Redding and Jonathan Rea (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK) both got a good start but it was the Ducati of Redding who got the jump on Rea on the opening lap before Toprak Razgatlioglu (Pata Yamaha with BRIXX WorldSBK) was able to jump Rea into second place. As Redding and Razgatlioglu broke away at the end of the opening lap, Michael Ruben Rinaldi (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) was able to fight with Rea to pass him on Lap 2, although Rea responded the following lap to move back into the podium places. The trio battled it out throughout the race, with Rea on the SC0 tyre and both Redding and Razgatlioglu on the SCX tyre.

Lucas Mahias (Kawasaki Puccetti Racing) got a good start on his SC0 tyres, one of only six riders to start on that tyre, to move from seventh into fifth on the opening lap before moving down the order as riders who had lost positions through Superpole times being deleted made progress; Mahias would eventually finish in 13th place.

Although the battle for the lead settled down in the middle stages of the race, Rea’s SC0 tyre appeared to hold on more throughout the 21-lap race as he put pressure on Razgatlioglu in the latter stages. Rea was able to get a run on Razgatlioglu on the start and finish straight, although the Turkish star was able to keep the position on the brakes into the right-hander of Turn 1.

It means Redding claimed his first back-to-back wins following his Race 2 victory at the Aragon Round last time out, while Rea stepped onto the podium for the 189th time in his WorldSBK career; while it’s Kawasaki’s first podium at Estoril since 1993.

Garrett Gerloff (GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) finished fourth after fighting back through the field after losing out at the start, including a battle with Rinaldi in fifth; Gerloff passing the Italian rider in the latter stages of the race to claim a top-four finish. Rinaldi was unable to keep his pace going throughout the race and dropped four seconds to Gerloff at the end of the race but was able to finish ahead of Chaz Davies (Team GoEleven) in sixth.

Dutch rider Michael van der Mark (BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) battled from outside the top ten to claim a seventh place finish as the new BMW M 1000 RR showed strong pace yet again, ahead of Alvaro Bautista (Team HRC) after the Spanish rider started 18th following his Superpole time being deleted. Tito Rabat (Barni Racing Team) claimed his best WorldSBK result to date with ninth while Andrea Locatelli (Pata Yamaha with BRIXX WorldSBK) secured a top ten finish after losing out in the early laps of the race.

Axel Bassani (Motocorsa Racing), the youngest rider on the grid, was another rider who had a Superpole time deleted but the Italian rider was able to come home in 11th place and take home his best WorldSBK result to date, five seconds clear of Leon Haslam (Team HRC). Mahias finished in 13th place with Tom Sykes (BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) in 14th despite the British rider moving up the order in the early stages before falling back down. Kohta Nozane (GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) claimed the final point available in Race 1 with 15th place, finishing one second clear of Jonas Folger (Bonovo MGM Action).

Isaac Viñales (Orelac Racing VerdNatura) came home in 17th place on his first visit to Estoril on WorldSBK machinery, while Eugene Laverty (RC Squadra Corse), who had made progress from 13th on the grid to run in the top seven lost the front of his BMW M 1000 RR at Turn 4 when battling with van der Mark, forcing the Irishman to tumble down the order although he was able to rejoin the race. At around the same time on Lap 9, another rider who was making up ground, Alex Lowes (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK) crashed at Turn 7 as he also lost time after fighting from tenth. Like Laverty, he was able to rejoin the race to finish ahead of Loris Cresson (TPR Team Pedercini Racing).

Samuele Cavalieri (TPR Team Pedercini Racing) was one of two retirements in the race following a crash at Turn 7, while Christophe Ponsson (Alstare Yamaha) was the second retirement of the race.

P1 Scott Redding (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati)

“I felt pretty good. I wasn’t really confident before the race because I saw Toprak had quite good pace earlier in the weekend and the two Kawasakis were quite strong today, so I was not really confident. I just said ‘ok, get the start, go to the front and you’re going to have to muscle your way around a little bit’. I was quite good but a couple of small mistakes I was making into Turn 1 were costing me about two tenths that I would gap and then lose it again. In general, quite happy. The tyre kind of worked okay. I went off the start and then I realised I choose the SCX. I was a little bit in panic for a little while, but it stayed quite stable and I think I was quite lucky because Torpak had the same tyre, only Jonathan with the SC0. It was good and it kind of paid off here because it was not so abrasive. We’ll see tomorrow, maybe we’ll try the SC0.

P2 Toprak Razgatlioglu (Pata Yamaha with BRIXX WorldSBK)

“Today, I had a really good start in the race, but I tried to follow Redding because he was really fast, and his sector two times are incredibly fast but I tried in the race just to close the gap. On the last laps, my tyres had a big drop but I was fighting again for first place but not enough. On the last two laps, I see Jonny and I’m pushing again for second because I need these points, I need good points for the Championship. We are happy because again we’re on the podium, but we will see tomorrow because I like this track, I need the win.”

P3 Jonathan Rea (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK)

“I only came through really once; I was alongside into Turn 1 but he’s braking too deep but not losing too much either so kudos to them. Also, Scott in the front. Just when Rinaldi came past in the beginning I just lost touch with the group and I had to work really, really hard to get back on them. It’s like 360 degrees from me because I’ve never been on the podium here, last year was a nightmare, so we’re really making steps and hopefully we can make some small changes for Race 2 tomorrow.”

MotoGP: Quartararo Breaks Lap Record, Takes Pole At Mugello

Fabio Quartararo (20). Photo courtesy Monster Energy Yamaha.
Fabio Quartararo (20). Photo courtesy Monster Energy Yamaha.
MotoGP Qual Comb

 

 

More, from a press release issued by Dorna:

Fantastic four: Quartararo makes it four in a row with pole and a lap record at Mugello

Bagnaia and Zarco give chase, with Aprilia and KTM both right up in the mix on Saturday

Saturday, 29 May 2021

Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) put in a stunner for pole position at the Gran Premio d’Italia Oakley, the Frenchman reporting it was one of his best ever laps as he broke the all-time lap record at Mugello with a 1:45.187. Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) was his closest challenger on the final push but was forced to settle for second, with Johann Zarco (Pramac Racing) taking third in a last lunge; once again top Independent Team rider. That means it’s the Championship top three on the front row on Sunday… with back to-back winner Jack Miller (Ducati Lenovo Team) looking for a good launch from fifth.

Q1

After a crash in the latter stages of FP3, Maverick Viñales (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) found himself down in Q1 and early on, the Spaniard showed his frustration to Takaaki Nakagami (LCR Honda Idemitsu) as the two ended up on the same bit of track and the Spaniard on a fast lap. Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda Team) then tried to follow the number 12 for a tow despite Viñales’ remonstrations, and it worked as Viñales improved and Marquez even more so tucked in behind.

That put Marquez as the rider leading the way, and Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia Racing Team Gresini) managed to push Viñales down to third and outside the graduation zone. The Yamaha rider was then on course to top the session on his final lap, but he rolled out of it despite red sectors and that leaves him down in P13 on the grid as Marc Marquez and Aleix Espargaro moved through.

Q2

Q2 fired up not long after and Quartararo was the man to beat by seven minutes in, the Frenchman on top after the first runs. Heading back out for their final shot at pole, it was again the number 20 setting the timing screens alight too. Nearly half a second clear after his final lap, the Championship leader then had to wait it out to see if anyone could better his best…

Aleix Espargaro was second at the time, with Miguel Oliveira (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) in third as KTM continued to impress. Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) kept that rolling too as he then split the two for a provisional third.

There was more to come. With Yamaha having been mighty through most the track but Ducati often enjoying the edge in the final sector, Bagnaia, Zarco and Miller seemed on course to challenge Quartararo half way round each of their laps. But at the next timing point it seemed the polesitter was set as Bagnaia dropped some tenths, then Miller and then Zarco, with too much left to make up on the Frenchman over the latter half of the lap. Still, given Quartararo’s advantage, the front row remained very much up for grabs and Bagnaia was first to take it, moving into second and cutting the advantage to only a couple of tenths.

What could Miller do? It was a solid effort but not enough to challenge his teammate, and the Austrlian could only manage fifth as he crossed the line. Zarco was tucked in right behind him, however, and the Pramac Racing rider shot from last in the session to third.

The Grid

Quartararo therefore starts the Gran Premio d’Italia Oakley from pole, with Bagnaia and Zarco alongside. Aleix Espargaro improved on his final effort but just misses out on the front row and will instead head the second for Aprilia on home turf.

Miller joins him there in the middle of Row 2, and with the Ducatis’ starts so far this season could still be in with a chance at the holeshot, even from there. Binder wasn’t able to quite improve on his final effort but he completes the second row in more fantastic form from KTM, who also equalled the all-time top speed record in MotoGP™ on Saturday morning with Binder. The South African has also never ridden in MotoGP™ before at this track, as the last visit was in 2019.

KTM teammate Oliveira also impressed as he takes seventh to head up Row 3, with both Suzukis alongside. Alex Rins (Team Suzuki Ecstar) is eighth and teammate and reigning Champion Joan Mir in ninth, the former showing good speed all weekend and the latter making it into Q2 directly for only the second time in 2021 – so it’s a little less work to do on race day.

Franco Morbidelli (Petronas Yamaha SRT) takes tenth, ahead of Marc Marquez and the his Respol Honda teammate Pol Espargaro.

Viñales is next up in P13, ahead of an impressive step forward on Saturday for top rookie Enea Bastianini (Avintia Esponsorama) in 14th. He pipped Takaaki Nakagami as the Japanese rider lost out in Q1, set to start 15th.

Valentino Rossi (Petronas Yamaha SRT) had a tough qualifying, the ‘Doctor’ set to start P19.

The Championship top three are the top three on the grid, back-to-back winner Miller has been a lightning starter and Viñales faces a fight back through the field. What will race day at Mugello bring for MotoGP™? Find out at 14:00 (GMT +2) on Sunday.

Fabio Quartararo: “This morning when I did a 45.6 and I saw Pecco was two tenths faster, I thought wow in qualifying we could get close to 44s. And yes. The first run I made a mistake on my first lap, and I feel the first lap on the tyre is good with our bike. Probably one of my best laps of all time, but I want to dedicate it to Jason. I hope we will have good news coming.”

2021 Ducati Multistrada V4 S, In The May Issue

Chris Ulrich rails the Ducati Multistrada on the Chuckwalla Valley Raceway road course, on stock on/off-road tires. Photo by Michael Gougis.
Chris Ulrich rails the Ducati Multistrada on the Chuckwalla Valley Raceway road course, on stock on/off-road tires. Photo by Michael Gougis.

Featured In the May 2021 issue of Roadracing World:    

        The 2021 Ducati MultistradaV4 S is arguably one of the most technologically advanced mass- produced motorcycles currently for sale. Don’t believe it? Consider this: The owner’s manual has 172 pages just covering the dashboard and how to adjust all of the electronic features! And this isn’t a feature-loaded machine that only looks good in photos and on a spec sheet. 

       This motorcycle can actually do it all, and to prove it we did it all—we dragged knee sliders at the race-track, we jumped it five feet off the ground, and in between we put over 500 street miles on it in grand, heated-seat comfort. And we did it all within a week!

            —Quick Look: 2021 Ducati Multistrada V4 S, by David Swarts

 

If you can think of it, the 2021 Ducati Multistrada probably offers it. It is complex, and yet its individual components work and the whole bike performs in sync. Read the story of this groundbreaking machine in the latest issue of Roadracing World!

 

Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology is THE definitive source for motorcycle racing, riding, and tech information.

 

PREVIEW the May 2021 Issue of Roadracing World!

 

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Moto3: Tatsuki Suzuki Goes From Q1 To Pole At Mugello

Tatsuki Suzuki (24). Photo courtesy SIC58 Squadra Corse.
Tatsuki Suzuki (24). Photo courtesy SIC58 Squadra Corse.
Moto3 Qual Comb

World Superbike: Rea Breaks Lap Record, Takes Pole At Estoril

Jonathan Rea (1). Photo courtesy Dorna
Jonathan Rea (1). Photo courtesy Dorna.
WSBK Superpole Qual

World Supersport: Caricasulo Takes Pole Position At Estoril

Federico Caricasulo (94). Photo courtesy Yamaha Racing.
Federico Caricasulo (94). Photo courtesy Yamaha Racing.
SS Superpole Qual
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