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MotoGP: Bradl Riding In Place Of Marc Marquez At Algarve GP

Repsol Honda Team prepare for penultimate push in Portimao

Pol Espargaro arrives in Portugal after the best result of the season as Marc Marquez recovers at home with Stefan Bradl in his place.

As the end of the 2021 MotoGP World Championship looms, the paddock arrives back in Portugal for round 17 as the season comes to a close with back-to-back races. This is fourth and final time the paddock will visit the same track in the season, the two Portuguese races separated by almost half a year.

Pol Espargaro arrives in the Algarve fresh off his best premier class finish, and first Repsol Honda Team podium, with renewed confidence. Although 2021 has been marked by hard moments for Espargaro, he and the Repsol Honda Team have continued to diligently work and improve. The previous race in Portugal was ended prematurely for the #44 due to a technical issue, Espargaro arriving with unfinished business. A top ten finish in the World Championship is also within his reach, Oliveira in tenth is just two points ahead of Espargaro.

Marc Marquez will unfortunately miss the Algarve Grand Prix after a training accident left him with a slight concussion. The #93 had achieved his first back-to-back wins since 2019 before the event.

Honda HRC Test Rider Stefan Bradl will return to the Repsol Honda Team in the place of Marquez in Portimao, Bradl’s fifth appearance of the year. All four of Bradl’s previous on track appearances have led to point scoring finishes with 11th in Qatar his best result so far. Portimao holds fond memories for the German who scored a sterling seventh place there in 2020, his second top ten of the season and highest placed finish of the year.

Pol Espargaro

“We had a great weekend in Misano and we were able to show what we can do on the Honda but now we have a new challenge. Having already raced in Portugal this year will be good as we already have knowledge of the track but I think it could be a bit difficult this weekend compared to Misano. Conditions will be different compared to the last time here so we have to understand what adjustments we will need. The motivation is so high to push in these final rounds and reward the team again. I want to wish Marc a speedy recovery.”

Stefan Bradl

“First of all I hope Marc is recovering well and he can be back on track soon. I am looking forward to riding again as Portimao is an enjoyable circuit where we had a good result towards the end of 2020. It’s never easy to jump on the bike, but we have had a lot of good bike time this year between the races and testing.”

Yamaha R3 bLU cRU European Cup: Registration Now Open For 2022

Registration now Open for the 2022 Yamaha R3 bLU cRU European Cup

After a highly successful maiden Yamaha R3 bLU cRU European Cup season, which was won by 17-year-old Spanish rider, Iker Garcia Abella, after a dramatic five-way final showdown at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, registration for the second edition has now opened.

Following two thrilling races in Barcelona, where he beat compatriot Julian Giral to the title by just four points, Garcia Abella will step-up to the FIM Supersport 300 Championship in 2022 with full support from Yamaha Motor Europe. You could be the next rider to fight for this opportunity, by signing up to join the 2022 Yamaha R3 bLU cRU European Cup grid at yamaha-racing.com.

The Cup is the perfect first step on the ladder towards the pinnacle of motorcycle road racing, and ahead of the FIM rule changes on minimum rider age for 2023, Yamaha has decided to incorporate this into its regulations for next year, with those aged 14-20 welcome to contest the 2022 championship. It features as a supporting series to the FIM Superbike World Championship, giving youngsters a chance to showcase their talent in front of the top world championship teams.

All entrants will receive coaching and technical support, while Yamaha R3 machinery and a full riding package, including race leathers, gloves, boots, helmet, tyres and fuel, are provided at a low cost, with season entry fees of just Euro (€) 28,900.

The overall champion will earn a place on the 2023 FIM Supersport 300 World Championship grid with a Yamaha bLU cRU supported team, providing they are over the minimum age of 16 years. Second in the standings will be offered a wildcard entry into the WorldSSP300 for the following season, as well as a 50 percent discount on their 2023 Yamaha R3 bLU cRU European Cup registration, which will also be awarded to the rider who finishes third in the championship.

But that’s not all. A number of riders from the 2022 Yamaha R3 bLU cRU European Cup will be selected to attend the VR46 Yamaha Master Camp in Italy, where they be coached by the same team responsible for advising the VR46 Academy Riders, including Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP rider, Franco Morbidelli.

Following the success of this year’s series, interest is expected to be high, and with only 30 grid slots available for the 2022 season early sign up is essential to avoid missing out on this exciting opportunity. Riders under the minimum age of 14 who were signed up to the Cup in 2021 will also receive special dispensation to compete in the second edition next year.

You can sign up for the 2022 Yamaha R3 bLU cRU European Cup by clicking here.

 

Paolo Pavesio 

Director, Marketing & Motorsport, Yamaha Motor Europe

“This first ever Yamaha R3 bLU cRU European Cup exceeded all our expectations this season. While the protagonists may be young, what they lack in years they certainly make up for in skill and determination. The level of the competition this year has been incredible, with spectators treated to two thrilling races at every one of the six rounds and the championship only being decided in the final race of the season. Congratulations to Iker Garcia Abella on winning the series overall in a spectacular season finale. I look forward to seeing him race for Yamaha in WorldSSP300 next year. Congratulations also to every single one of the riders who contested the inaugural Yamaha R3 bLU cRU European Cup this year and made it such a success. Now we are looking to build on this success by welcoming even more riders to the series in 2022. It was a truly multinational grid this year, but with the easing of international travel restrictions as the threat of Coronavirus diminishes, I am confident that we will see a lot more riders from outside of Europe join the fray in 2022.”

CVMA: Gilbert Wins Open Shootout

CVMA Racing Round 2 2021/2022 Winter Series  
 

Racers from all over flocked to the sunny skies and warm weather of the California desert for the second round of the CVMA 2021/2022 winter series. On Friday, the New Racer school graduated ten new racers into the sport and the club continues to grow each and every round.

Saturday morning dawned to beautiful weather and some blisteringly fast times in qualifying. Andy DiBrino was fastest of all turning a 1:44.735 lap time in open qualifying. Fastest on a middleweight bike was Rennie Scaysbrook turning a 1:48.081 lap time. Aden Thao was fastest on an ultra-lightweight bike turning a 1:53.468 lap time.

Saturday’s races were competitive as always with some of the fastest racers in the country leading the way and winning. Highlights from Saturday’s racing included; Alejandro Thermiotis winning two middleweight races and Justin Bordonaro winning two lightweight races on his Aprilia RS 660.

On Sunday, the Open Shootout race was a barn burner with the CVMA #1 plate holder, Michael Gilbert taking the win. DiBrino started the shootout from pole position, but was passed near the end of the first lap by a hard charging Gilbert. Gilbert started from the second row, but was able to make a couple passes on the opening lap to take the lead. After taking the lead, Gilbert stretched out a gap and was never challenged, taking the win by a good margin. Corey Alexander ran second early in the race and DiBrino was close behind. The two traded positions a couple times during the race with DiBrino leading at the start of the final lap. Alexander was able to get the drive exiting turn 4 and pass DiBrino on the inside entering turn 3. Alexander held second position to the line with DiBrino finishing third.

In the Supersport Shootout, Alejandro Thermiotis took the win. At the start, Edgar Zaragoza got the hole shot and the lead for the first few laps. Thermiotis was able to pass Zaragoza and the two traded the lead a couple of times during the race. He was able to take the lead on the final lap and held off Zaragoza for the win. After starting the race from pole position, Scaysbrook fell back due to a poor start. He was able to battle back to secure the final podium spot finishing third.

CVMA offers two full days of racing every race weekend and also includes Saturday qualifying for grid position in all classes, amateur and expert, as well as a wide variety of classes to choose from. The new racer school is conducted every Friday preceding the race weekend for those that would like to get their start in racing.

Additionally, CVMA offers free reciprocity as a means of encouraging racers from other clubs to come out and compete with us during the winter. Log on to www.cvmaracing.com for more information.

CVMA. It’s club racing done right.

*Note: when running the track in the CCW direction we still refer to the corners numbers used when running the track CW.

October 30-31, 2021 @ Chuckwalla – Results

Formula Middleweight

1. Alejandro Thermiotis (Yam YZF-R6)

2. Rennie Scaysbrook (Suz GSX-R600)

3. Harm Jansen (Yam YZF-R6)

4. Edgar Zaragoza (Yam YZF-R6)

5. Cody Newman (Kaw ZX-6R)

6. Tyler Olmstead (Yam YZF-R6)

 

Amateur Formula Middleweight

1. Declan Van Rosmalen (Yam YZF-R6)

2. Alejandro Dominguez Vargas (Kaw ZX-6R)

3. Kevin Hosseini (Yam YZF-R6)

4. Quincy Bowers (Kaw ZX-6R)

5. Dennis Garciadelgado (Yam YZF-R6)

6. Jesus Villalobos (Yam YZF-R6)

 

Amateur Formula Middleweight

1. Alejandro Dominguez Vargas (Kaw ZX-6R)

2. Quincy Bowers (Kaw ZX-6R)

3. Dennis Garciadelgado (Yam YZF-R6)

4. Kevin Hosseini (Yam YZF-R6)

5. Calvin Dickens (Yam YZF-R6)

6. Shawn Rothmeyer (Suz GSX-R600)

 

American Twins

1. Frankie Garcia (Ind FTR)

2. Clayton Braun (H-D FX112)

3. Joshua Nichols (H-D FXDL)

 

Formula 2

1. Justin Bordonaro (Apr RS 660)

2. Jon Glaefke (Duc X60R)

3. Harry Brehm (Kaw ZX-6R)

4. Christopher Newman (Apr RS 660)

5. John Knowles (Suz SV650)

6. Ashley Koehler (Suz SV650)

 

Amateur 350 Supersport

1. Jordan Colon (Yam YZF-R3)

2. Matthew Laoretti (Yam YZF-R3)

3. Dion Hattrup (Kaw EX300)

 

500 Supersport

1. Owen Williams (Kaw EX400)

2. Geoffrey Marshall (Kaw EX400)

3. Savannah Jaska (Kaw EX400)

4. Nathaniel Newberry (Kaw EX400)

5. Tony Perez (Kaw EX400)

6. Jesse Horton (Kaw EX400)

 

350 SuperSport

1. Matt Cavarlez (BMW G310R)

2. Tammy Mingus (Yam YZF-R3)

3. Tristan Delatorre (Yam YZF-R3)

 

Amateur 500 SuperSport

1. Travers Johnson (Kaw EX400)

2. Jojoe Dabalos (Yam YZF-R3)

3. Petro Ksondzyk (Kaw EX400)

4. Cristian Lima (Kaw EX400)

 

Formula Open

1. Andy DiBrino (Kaw ZX-10R)

2. Corey Alexander (Kaw ZX-10R)

3. Michael Gilbert (Kaw ZX-10R)

4. David Anthony (Kaw ZX-10R)

5. Andrew Lee (Kaw ZX-10R)

6. Chad Lewin (Kaw ZX-10RR)

 

Amateur Formula Open

1. Matt Testa (Yam YZF-R1)

2. Troy Simmons (Kaw ZX-10R)

3. Igor Sokolov (Duc Panigale V4 R)

4. Kevin Hosseini (Yam YZF-R6)

5. Dennis Garciadelgado (Kaw ZX-10R)

6. Rodney Thomas (Yam YZF-R1)

 

Formula 40 Ultra Lightweight

1. Luke Sanzone (Kaw EX400)

2. Tony Perez (Kaw EX400)

3. Jojoe Dabalos (Yam YZF-R3)

4. Tristan Delatorre (Yam YZF-R3)

5. Matt Ray (Yam YZF-R3)

6. Angela Brunson (Kaw Ninja 400)

 

Formula Twins

1. Justin Bordonaro (Apr RS 660)

2. Jon Glaefke (Duc X60R)

3. Christopher Newman (Apr RS 660)

4. John Knowles (Suz SV650)

5. Shannon Deane (Apr RS 660)

6. Ashley Koehler (Suz SV650)

 

American Thunder

1. Frankie Garcia (Ind FTR)

2. Eric Stahl (H-D Bagger)

3. Clayton Braun (H-D FX112)

4. Joshua Nichols (H-D FXDL)

 

SuperSport Open

1. Michael Gilbert (Kaw ZX-10R)

2. Corey Alexander (Kaw ZX-10R)

3. David Anthony (Kaw ZX-10R)

4. Andy DiBrino (Kaw ZX-10R)

5. Jack Bakken (Kaw ZX-10R)

6. Nicholas Ciling (Suz GSX-R1000)

 

Amateur SuperSport Open

1. Troy Simmons (Kaw ZX-10R)

2. Igor Sokolov (Duc Panigale V4 R)

3. Geiser Hernandez (Duc 1199 R)

4. Calvin Dickens (Yam YZF-R6)

5. Jamaal Medford (Yam YZF-R1)

6. Allen Pagan (Yam YZF-R6)

 

SuperSport Middleweight

1. Alejandro Thermiotis (Yam YZF-R6)

2. Rennie Scaysbrook (Suz GSX-R600)

3. Tyler Olmstead (Yam YZF-R6)

4. Matthew White (Kaw ZX-6RR)

5. Brian Berdan (Yam YZF-R6)

6. Hunter Ciling (Yam YZF-R6)

 

Amateur SuperSport Middleweight

1. Erik Arnett (Yam YZF-R6)

2. Kevin Hosseini (Yam YZF-R6)

3. Jesus Villalobos (Yam YZF-R6)

4. Quincy Bowers (Kaw ZX-6R)

5. Jackson Kevan (Hon CBR600RR)

6. Alejandro Dominguez Vargas (Kaw ZX-6R)

 

FemmeWalla

1. Mallory Dobbs (Kaw ZX-6R)

2. Emily Grana (Suz GSX-R600)

3. Alyssa Evans (Kaw ZX-6R)

4. Rainey Pogue (Suz GSX-R600)

5. Ashley Koehler (Suz SV650)

6. Bonnie Chiurazzi (Kaw ZX-6R)

 

FemmeWalla Ultra Lightweight

1. Savannah Jaska (Kaw EX400)

2. Tammy Mingus (Yam YZF-R3)

3. Kathy Zhao (Yam YZF-R3)

4. Angela Brunson (Kaw EX400)

 

Formula Ultra Lightweight

1. Aden Thao (Kaw EX400)

2. Owen Williams (Kaw EX400)

3. Luke Sanzone (Kaw EX400)

4. Savannah Jaska (Kaw EX400)

5. Geoffrey Marshall (Kaw EX400)

6. Travers Johnson (Kaw EX400)

 

Formula 40 Lightweight

1. Ralph Staropoli (Yam TZ250)

2. Jon Glaefke (Duc X60R)

3. James Dobson (Yam FZ-07)

4. Jojoe Dabalos (Yam YZF-R3)

 

Formula 40 Middleweight

1. David Kolb (Kaw ZX-6R)

2. Kenneth Yee (Kaw ZX-6R)

3. Dan Sharp (Hon CBR600RR)

4. Dan McCormack (Yam YZF-R6)

5. Calvin Dickens (Yam YZF-R6)

6. Stanley Bates (Yam YZF-R6)

 

Formula 40

1. Gio Alverez (Yam YZF-R1)

2. Wes Farnsworth (Kaw ZX-10R)

3. Mark DeGross (Hon CBR1000RR)

4. Garrick Fulbright (Kaw ZX-10R)

5. Igor Sokolov (Duc Panigale V4 R)

6. Jeff Whitmer (BMW S1000RR)

 

Formula 2

1. Justin Bordonaro (Apr RS 660)

2. Jon Glaefke (Duc X60R)

3. Christopher Newman (Apr RS 660)

4. James Dobson (Yam FZ-07)

5. Harry Brehm (Kaw ZX-6R)

6. Ashley Koehler (Suz SV650)

 

American Twins

1. Frankie Garcia (Ind FTR)

2. Clayton Braun (H-D FX112)

3. Joshua Nichols (H-D FXDL)

 

Formula Open

1. Michael Gilbert (Kaw ZX-10R)

2. Andy DiBrino (Kaw ZX-10R)

3. David Anthony (Kaw ZX-10R)

4. Corey Alexander (Kaw ZX-10R)

5. Chad Lewin (Kaw ZX-10RR)

6. Anthony Norton (Kaw ZX-10R)

 

Amateur Formula Open

1. Matt Testa (Yam YZF-R1)

2. Troy Simmons (Kaw ZX-10R)

3. Igor Sokolov (Duc Panigale V4 R)

4. Kevin Hosseini (Yam YZF-R6)

5. Geiser Hernandez (Duc 1199 R)

6. Allen Pagan (Yam YZF-R6)

 

Formula Middleweight

1. Alejandro Thermiotis (Yam YZF-R6)

2. Edgar Zaragoza (Yam YZF-R6)

3. Harm Jansen (Yam YZF-R6)

4. Rennie Scaysbrook (Suz GSX-R600)

5. Jordan Tropkoff (Suz GSX-R600)

6. Brian Berdan (Yam YZF-R6)

 

Amateur Formula Middleweight

1. Kevin Hosseini (Yam YZF-R6)

2. Ivan Rodriquez (Yam YZF-R6)

3. Quincy Bowers (Kaw ZX-6R)

4. Jesus Villalobos (Yam YZF-R6)

5. Dennis Garciadelgado (Yam YZF-R6)

6. Jackson Kevan (Hon CBR600RR)

 

Amateur 500 SuperSport

1. Travers Johnson (Kaw EX400)

2. Cristian Lima (Kaw EX400)

 

500 Supersport

1. Owen Williams (Kaw EX400)

2. Savannah Jaska (Kaw EX400)

3. Nathaniel Newberry (Kaw EX400)

4. Geoffrey Marshall (Kaw EX400)

5. Luke Sanzone (Kaw EX400)

6. Tony Perez (Kaw EX400)

 

350 SuperSport

1. Yohei Sakane (Yam YZF-R3)

2. Matt Cavarlez (BMW G310R)

3. Tammy Mingus (Yam YZF-R3)

4. Tristan Delatorre (Yam YZF-R3)

5. Kathy Zhao (Yam YZF-R3)

 

Amateur 350 Supersport

1. Jordan Colon (Yam YZF-R3)

2. Matthew Laoretti (Yam YZF-R3)

3. Dion Hattrup (Kaw EX300)

 

American Thunder Shootout

1. Frankie Garcia (Ind FTR)

2. Clayton Braun (H-D FX112)

 

Open Shootout

1. Michael Gilbert (Kaw ZX-10R)

2. Corey Alexander (Kaw ZX-10R)

3. Andy DiBrino (Kaw ZX-10R)

4. David Anthony (Kaw ZX-10R)

5. Anthony Norton (Kaw ZX-10R)

6. Adolfo Delgato (Suz GSX-R1000)

 

Supersport Shootout

1. Alejandro Thermiotis (Yam YZF-R6)

2. Edgar Zaragoza (Yam YZF-R6)

3. Rennie Scaysbrook (Suz GSX-R600)

4. Harm Jansen (Yam YZF-R6)

5. Jordan Tropkoff (Suz GSX-R600)

6. Tyler Olmstead (Yam YZF-R6)

 

Ultra Lightweight Shootout

1. Aden Thao (Kaw EX400)

2. Owen Williams (Kaw EX400)

3. Savannah Jaska (Kaw EX400)

4. Geoffrey Marshall (Kaw EX400)

5. Nathaniel Newberry (Kaw EX400)

6. Jesse Horton (Kaw EX400)

 

Formula Twins

1. Jon Glaefke (Duc X60R)

2. Justin Bordonaro (Apr RS660)

 

Amateur SuperSport Open

1. Troy Simmons (Kaw ZX-10R)

2. Igor Sokolov (Duc Panigale V4 R)

3. Geiser Hernandez (Duc 1199 R)

4. Damian Goldsmith (Yam YZF-R1)

5. Allen Pagan (Yam YZF-R6)

6. Calvin Dickens (Yam YZF-R6)

 

SuperSport Open

1. Michael Gilbert (Kaw ZX-10R)

2. Corey Alexander (Kaw ZX-10R)

3. Andy DiBrino (Kaw ZX-10R)

4. Nicholas Ciling (Suz GSX-R1000)

5. Dan Dickerman (Yam YZF-R1)

6. Wes Farnsworth (Kaw ZX-10R)

 

Formula Ultra Lightweight

1. Aden Thao (Kaw EX400)

2. Owen Williams (Kaw EX400)

3. Savannah Jaska (Kaw EX400)

4. Luke Sanzone (Kaw EX400)

5. Travers Johnson (Kaw EX400)

6. Yohei Sakane (Yam YZF-R3)

 

Amateur SuperSport Middleweight

1. Jesus Villalobos (Yam YZF-R6)

2. Quincy Bowers (Kaw ZX-6R)

3. Ivan Rodriquez (Yam YZF-R6)

4. Jackson Kevan (Hon CBR600RR)

5. Shawn Rothmeyer (Suz GSX-R600)

6. Mike Ciobanu (Suz GSX-R600)

 

SuperSport Middleweight

1. Edgar Zaragoza (Yam YZF-R6)

2. Tyler Olmstead (Yam YZF-R6)

3. Joe Janiga (Kaw ZX-6R)

4. Orel Madar (Kaw ZX-6R)

5. Andre Pettas (Yam YZF-R6)

6. David Kolb (Kaw ZX-6R)

 

Harley-Davidson Sales, Revenue & Profit Up In Q3

HARLEY-DAVIDSON DELIVERS SOLID THIRD QUARTER FINANCIAL RESULTS

MILWAUKEE — Harley-Davidson, Inc. (“Harley-Davidson”) (NYSE: HOG) reported third quarter results [October 27].

“Harley-Davidson delivered a solid third quarter and we have seen many of our Hardwire strategic initiatives perform well, providing encouraging initial proof points of our five-year strategy,” said Jochen Zeitz, chairman, president and CEO, Harley-Davidson. “Our teams continue to work to mitigate the impact of the ongoing supply chain challenges that our sector faces, however our performance underlines that we are on course to deliver our long-term Hardwire strategy.”

Third Quarter 2021 Highlights and Results

GAAP diluted EPS of $1.05, up $0.27 over Q3 2020

Total HDI revenue grew 17 percent behind increased shipments and favorable motorcycle unit mix

Motorcycles and Related Products (Motorcycles) segment operating margin was 8.4 percent, which was 3.6 percentage points better than Q3 2020; driven by unit mix, pricing and reduced restructuring expense offsetting the cost increases across the supply chain and the impact of EU tariffs

Financial Services segment operating income growth of $15 million over Q3 2020 driven by lower interest expense

Launched Sportster® S, the all-new Sportster motorcycle built on the Revolution® Max platform

Third Quarter 2021 Results

Q3 consolidated revenue was up 17 percent versus Q3 2020 driven by growth in the Motorcycles segment thanks to stronger unit sales and a favorable unit mix. Total net income growth of 36 percent was driven by growth across both the Motorcycles and the Financial Services segments.

Revenue from the Motorcycles segment was up significantly during the third quarter of 2021 primarily driven by a 12 percent increase in wholesale shipments, favorable motorcycle unit mix and pricing. Parts & Accessories third quarter revenue was down slightly while General Merchandise was flat to Q3 2020 as both businesses faced strong prior year Q3 comparisons as dealers reopened after pandemic-related closures.

Third quarter gross margin was down 3 percentage points to Q3 prior year as a margin benefit attributed from stronger volume, profitable mix and pricing was more than offset by the negative cost headwinds across the supply chain and higher EU tariffs (2.5 percentage point impact). Q3 operating margin finished up versus prior year as the company’s comparison period included heavier Rewire restructuring charges.

Global retail motorcycle sales in the third quarter (down 6 percent to prior year) were impacted by the strategic decisions made as part of the Rewire strategy, including the exit of unprofitable product segments and markets, as well as, macro supply chain challenges, including slower shipping times to the international markets.

Q3 North America retail performance was up over last year, offset by declines across international markets.

Financial Services segment operating income was up over prior year in the third quarter, primarily driven by lower interest expense.

Other Results

Harley-Davidson generated $926 million of cash from operating activities year-to-date in 2021. Cash and cash equivalents were $2.1 billion at the end of the third quarter, down $1.5 billion to the end of Q3 2020 as the company has brought down cash balances.

Tax Rate – The company’s year-to-date effective tax rate was 23 percent.

Dividends – The company paid cash dividends of $0.15 per share in Q3 2021.

Outlook

For the full-year 2021, the company now expects:

Financial Services segment operating income growth of 95 to 105 percent, an increase from the previously communicated range of 75 to 85 percent.

Capital expenditures of $135 million to $150 million, a decrease from the previously communicated range of $190 million to $225 million.

Additionally, our full-year 2021 Motorcycles segment guidance remains unchanged relative to prior guidance. The company continues to expect:

Motorcycles segment revenue growth to be 30 to 35 percent.

GAAP Motorcycles segment operating income margin of 6 to 8 percent given the EU’s decision to keep the current tariff at 31 percent while tariff negotiations occur.

Cash allocation priorities remain to first fund growth through The Hardwire initiatives, then to pay dividends, and the company may also choose to execute discretionary share repurchases.

Company Background

Harley-Davidson, Inc. is the parent company of Harley-Davidson Motor Company and Harley-Davidson Financial Services. Our vision: Building our legend and leading our industry through innovation, evolution and emotion. Our mission: More than building machines, we stand for the timeless pursuit of adventure. Freedom for the soul. Our ambition is to maintain our place as the most desirable motorcycle brand in the world. Since 1903, Harley-Davidson has defined motorcycle culture by delivering a motorcycle lifestyle with distinctive and customizable motorcycles, experiences, motorcycle accessories, riding gear and apparel. Harley-Davidson Financial Services provides financing, insurance and other programs to help get riders on the road. www.harley-davidson.com.

Non-GAAP Disclosure

This press release includes financial measures that have not been calculated in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and are therefore referred to as non-GAAP financial measures. The non-GAAP measures described below are intended to be considered by users as supplemental information to the equivalent GAAP measures, to aid investors in better understanding the company’s financial results. The company believes that these non-GAAP measures provide useful perspective on underlying business results and trends, and a means to assess period-over-period results. These non-GAAP measures should not be considered as a substitute for, or superior to, measures of financial performance prepared in accordance with GAAP. These non-GAAP measures may not be the same as similarly titled measures used by other companies due to possible differences in method and in items or events being adjusted.

The non-GAAP measures included in this press release are adjusted net income and adjusted diluted EPS. These non-GAAP measures exclude restructuring plan costs and the impact of European Union (EU) tariffs. Restructuring plan costs include restructuring expenses as presented in the consolidated statements of operations. The impact of EU tariffs includes incremental EU tariffs imposed beginning in 2018 on the company’s products shipped from the U.S. and, beginning in 2021, on the company’s products shipped from Thailand. These non-GAAP measures, as well as a reconciliation of the comparable GAAP measure to these non-GAAP measures, are included later in this press release.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

The company intends that certain matters discussed in this press release are “forward-looking statements” intended to qualify for the safe harbor from liability established by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can generally be identified as such because the context of the statement will include words such as the company “believes,” “anticipates,” “expects,” “plans,” “may,” “will,” “estimates,” “targets,” “intends,” “forecasts,” “sees,” or words of similar meaning. Similarly, statements that describe or refer to future expectations, future plans, strategies, objectives, outlooks, targets, guidance, commitments, or goals are also forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially, unfavorably or favorably, from those anticipated as of the date of this press release. Certain of such risks and uncertainties are described below. Shareholders, potential investors, and other readers are urged to consider these factors in evaluating the forward-looking statements and are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements included in this press release are only made as of the date of this press release, and the company disclaims any obligation to publicly update such forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances.

Important factors that could affect future results and cause those results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements include, among others, the following: (i) the COVID-19 pandemic, including the length and severity of the pandemic across the globe and the pace of recovery following the pandemic; and (ii) the company’s ability to: (A) execute its business plans and strategies, including The Hardwire and the evolution of LiveWire as a standalone brand, successfully execute its remodeled approach to supply and inventory management, and strengthen its existing business while allowing for desirable growth; (B) mitigate the impact of the revocation of the Binding Origin Information (“BOI”) decisions that allowed the company to supply its European Union market with certain of its motorcycles produced at its Thailand operations at a reduced tariff rate and favorably resolve risks and uncertainties related to the revocation of the BOI decisions including, among other: (1) uncertainties regarding the quantity and mix of motorcycles that the company imports into the EU; (2) whether the company will be granted temporary relief from the effect of the revocation of the BOI decisions; (3) whether the company will be successful in appealing the revocation of the BOI decisions; (4) uncertainties regarding the size and duration of the EU tariffs; and (5) whether and to what extent the company determines to attempt to pass on the impact of the revocation to dealers and its success in doing so; (C) manage supply chain and logistics issues, including quality issues, unexpected interruptions or price increases caused by supplier volatility, raw material shortages or natural disasters, and longer shipping times and increased logistics costs, including by successfully implementing pricing surcharges; (D) invest in electric vehicle (“EV”) technology required to lead the transformation of motorcycling and leverage its engineering expertise, manufacturing footprint, supply chain infrastructure, and global logistics capabilities in the EV sector (E) accurately analyze, predict and react to changing market conditions and successfully adjust to shifting global consumer needs and interests; (F) successfully access the capital and/or credit markets on terms that are acceptable to the company and within its expectations; (G) successfully carry out its global manufacturing and assembly operations; (H) develop and introduce products, services and experiences on a timely basis that the market accepts, that enable the company to generate desired sales levels and that provide the desired financial returns, including successfully implementing and executing plans to strengthen and grow its leadership position in Grand America Touring, large Cruiser and Trike, and growing its complementary businesses; (I) perform in a manner that enables the company to benefit from market opportunities while competing against existing and new competitors; (J) prevent, detect, and remediate any issues with its motorcycles or any issues associated with the manufacturing processes to avoid delays in new model launches, recall campaigns, regulatory agency investigations, increased warranty costs or litigation and adverse effects on its reputation and brand strength, and carry out any product programs or recalls within expected costs and timing; (K) manage the impact that prices for and supply of used motorcycles may have on its business, including on retail sales of new motorcycles; (L) realize expectations concerning market demand for electric models, which will depend in part on the building of necessary infrastructure; (M) successfully manage and reduce costs throughout the business; (N) manage through changes in general economic and business conditions, including changing capital, credit and retail markets, and the changing political environment; (O) continue to develop the capabilities of its distributors and dealers, effectively implement changes relating to its dealers and distribution methods and manage the risks that its independent dealers may have difficulty obtaining capital and managing through changing economic conditions and consumer demand; (P)  continue to develop and maintain a productive relationship with Zhejiang Qianjiang Motorcycle Co., Ltd. and launch related products in a timely manner; (Q)  maintain a productive relationship with Hero MotoCorp as a distributor and licensee of the Harley-Davidson brand name in India; (R) manage and predict the impact that new or adjusted tariffs may have on the company’s ability to sell products internationally, and the cost of raw materials and components; (S) successfully maintain a manner in which to sell motorcycles in China and the company’s ASEAN countries that does not subject its motorcycles to incremental tariffs; (T) manage its Thailand corporate and manufacturing operation in a manner that allows the company to avail itself of preferential free trade agreements and duty rates, and sufficiently lower prices of its motorcycles in certain markets; (U) accurately estimate and adjust to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates, interest rates and commodity prices; (V) retain and attract talented employees, and eliminate personnel duplication, inefficiencies and complexity throughout the organization; (W) prevent a cybersecurity breach involving consumer, employee, dealer, supplier, or company data and respond to evolving regulatory requirements regarding data security; (X) manage the credit quality, the loan servicing and collection activities, and the recovery rates of HDFS’ loan portfolio; (Y) adjust to tax reform, healthcare inflation and reform and pension reform, and successfully estimate the impact of any such reform on the company’s business; (Z) manage through the effects inconsistent and unpredictable weather patterns may have on retail sales of motorcycles; (AA) implement and manage enterprise-wide information technology systems, including systems at its manufacturing facilities; (BB) manage changes and prepare for requirements in legislative and regulatory environments for its products, services and operations; (CC) manage its exposure to product liability claims and commercial or contractual disputes; (DD) continue to manage the relationships and agreements that the company has with its labor unions to help drive long-term competitiveness; (EE) achieve anticipated results with respect to the company’s recently launched pre-owned motorcycle program, Harley-Davidson Certified, and the company’s H-D1 Marketplace; and (FF) accurately predict the margins of its Motorcycles and Related Products segment in light of, among other things, tariffs, the cost associated with product development initiatives and the company’s complex global supply chain.

The company’s operations, demand for its products, and its liquidity could be adversely impacted by work stoppages, facility closures, strikes, natural causes, widespread infectious disease, terrorism, or other factors. Other factors are described in risk factors that the company has disclosed in documents previously filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Many of these risk factors are impacted by the current changing capital, credit and retail markets and the company’s ability to manage through inconsistent economic conditions.

The company’s ability to sell its motorcycles and related products and services and to meet its financial expectations also depends on the ability of the company’s independent dealers to sell its motorcycles and related products and services to retail customers. The company depends on the capability and financial capacity of its independent dealers to develop and implement effective retail sales plans to create demand for the motorcycles and related products and services they purchase from the company. In addition, the company’s independent dealers and distributors may experience difficulties in operating their businesses and selling Harley-Davidson motorcycles and related products and services as a result of weather, economic conditions, the impact of COVID-19, or other factors.

In recent years, HDFS has experienced historically low levels of retail credit losses, but there is no assurance that this will continue. The company believes that HDFS’ retail credit losses may increase over time due to changing consumer credit behavior, HDFS’ efforts to increase prudently structured loan approvals to sub-prime borrowers and the favorable impact of recent federal stimulus payments, as well as actions that the company has taken and could take that impact motorcycle values. Refer to “Risk Factors” under Item 1A of the company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2020 filed with the SEC on February 23, 2021 and Part II, Item 1A of any subsequently filed Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, for a discussion of additional risk factors and a more complete discussion of some of the cautionary statements noted above.

MotoAmerica: AutoParts4Less.com Is New Series Title Sponsor

MotoAmerica Welcomes AutoParts4Less.com As The Title Sponsor Of The 2022 And 2023 MotoAmerica Championship

Highly Successful Aftermarket Auto Parts E-Commerce Platform To Be Title Sponsor Of The 2022 And 2023 Auto Parts 4Less MotoAmerica Championship Series
 

IRVINE, CA (November 2, 2021) – MotoAmerica, North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series, is excited to announce that automotive parts digital marketplace AutoParts4Less.com will be the title sponsor of the 2022 and 2023 MotoAmerica Championship Series, to be known as the Auto Parts 4Less MotoAmerica Championship.

The partnership with MotoAmerica will be Auto Parts 4Less’ first endeavor into motorcycle racing, though the group has been an event sponsor of NASCAR with its LiftKits4Less.com brand and has also sponsored a NASCAR Xfinity Series entry with its Auto Parts 4Less brand.

AutoParts4Less.com is dedicated to offering fans, automotive parts sellers, and businesses a user-friendly platform to sell and buy parts for all vehicles, including cars, trucks, boats, RVs, motorcycles, powersports and more from its multi-vendor marketplace. Buyers purchase parts, as well as installation while having a wide variety of manufacturers to choose from. Auto Parts 4Less is a marketplace that is driven by sellers who want more value being seen and selling their automotive parts online, and consumers who want more value when it comes to purchasing automotive parts.

“We’re excited to have Auto Parts 4Less as the title sponsor for the 2022 and 2023 MotoAmerica Championship seasons,” said MotoAmerica President Wayne Rainey. “This is an important partnership for our series, as it brings a new partner from outside the motorcycle industry to MotoAmerica, and it marks the first time in our history that we will start our season with a title sponsor. It really shows how far we have come in our seven years. This Auto Parts 4Less relationship will further our exposure and increase our rapidly growing numbers as we continue to build our championship. This sponsorship also makes a lot of sense for Auto Parts 4Less, as our fans will become their customers. We can’t wait to get the 2022 season started and get this partnership rolling on track.”

“Our team has always been huge fans of motorsports, it’s heavily ingrained in our company culture,” said Christopher Davenport President of Auto Parts 4Less. “The community is like no other and was a huge reason why we have been involved in NASCAR and now MotoAmerica. Our platform was built by enthusiasts for enthusiasts, these are our roots.”

“Race fans tend to have a stronger relationship with their vehicles, especially when it comes to servicing or tuning,” said Steve Jugan, MotoAmerica’s Vice President of Business Development & Partnerships. “That passion is what we love most about racing fans. AutoParts4Less.com offers an advanced experience for those individuals who like to get their hands dirty and work on their vehicles, so leveraging MotoAmerica to bring further market awareness to Auto Parts 4Less was an easy choice.”

“We are looking forward to an exciting year of racing and business and are thrilled to be able to support this great sport,” said Tim Armes, Chairman of the Board for Auto Parts 4Less. “Our market analysts show motorcyclists rank high for multiple-vehicle ownership, which was a huge draw for us as our website addresses nearly all motorized markets.”

The 10-round 2022 Auto Parts 4Less MotoAmerica Championship begins at Circuit of The Americas in Austin, Texas, April 8-10, and concludes at Barber Motorsports Park in Birmingham, Alabama, September 23-25.

2022 Auto Parts 4Less MotoAmerica Championship Schedule

April 8-10                    Circuit of The Americas MotoGP                             Austin, TX

April 22-24                  Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta                              Braselton, GA

May 20-22                  VIRginia International Raceway                               Alton, VA

June 3-5                     Road America                                                          Elkhart Lake, WI

June 24-26                 Ridge Motorsports Park                                           Shelton, WA

July 8-10                    WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca                       Monterey, CA

July 29-31                  Brainerd International Raceway                               Brainerd, MN

Aug. 19-21                 Pittsburgh International Race Complex                   Wampum, PA

Sept. 9-11                  New Jersey Motorsports Park                                 Millville, NJ

Sept. 23-25                Barber Motorsports Park                                         Birmingham, AL

About MotoAmerica

MotoAmerica is the North American road racing series created in 2014 that is home to the AMA Superbike Championship. MotoAmerica is an affiliate of KRAVE Group LLC, a partnership that includes three-time 500cc World Champion, two-time AMA Superbike Champion, and AMA Hall of Famer Wayne Rainey, ex-racer and former manager of Team Roberts Chuck Aksland, motorsports marketing executive Terry Karges, and businessman Richard Varner. For more information on MotoAmerica, visit www.MotoAmerica.com. Also make sure to follow MotoAmerica on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

About AutoParts4Less.com

AutoParts4Less.com is a multi-seller online digital marketplace dedicated to automotive parts. The wholly owned subsidiary of The 4Less Group, Inc. (OTCQB: FLES), AutoParts4Less.com offers buyers and qualified sellers a wide range of automotive parts for cars, trucks, boats, motorcycles and RV’s on a single platform. With the launch of their automotive marketplace, AutoParts4Less.com, the company expects to have available for sale millions of unique SKUs, as well as multiple sellers for most SKUs listed which in turn will provide customers with more options. The Company is developing best in-class technological modules to increase visitor conversions by adding how-to content and various other services to the websites. Current marketing and branding strategy presently consist of strong SEO traffic, pay-per-click as well as sponsoring drivers in the NASCAR, MotoAmerica, NHRA motorsports. Additionally, as a platform business model, the AutoParts4Less.com marketplace is highly scalable and can take advantage of the network effect meaning as more sellers participate on the platform it will attract more sellers and thus more buyers. Information on FLES can be found at www.the4lessgroup.com.

Indian Updates Technology On 2022 Models

INDIAN MOTORCYCLE INTRODUCES 2022 LINEUP FEATURING UPDATED TECHNOLOGY & ALL-NEW CRUISER, BAGGER, TOURING ACCESSORIES

New Ride Command Update Expands Bluetooth Connectivity & Adds Speed Limit Overlay

New 2022 Accessories Include Premium Luggage Collection,

Adaptive Headlight for Scout Models & More

MINNEAPOLIS, MN – November 2, 2021 – Indian Motorcycle, America’s First Motorcycle Company, today announced its 2022 model year lineup, featuring updated technology and new accessories across its cruiser, bagger and touring models. In addition, the complete 2022 Indian Motorcycle lineup returns with fresh colors across each model lineup.

“Rider feedback continues to be at the forefront of what drives refinements and enhancements for our model year offerings, and that is once again the case for 2022 with a host of new ride-enhancing technology and accessories across the lineup,” said Mike Dougherty, President for Indian Motorcycle. “The introduction of the reimagined Indian Chief in 2021 rounded out a truly comprehensive lineup of cruisers, baggers, and touring models, and with the help of customer feedback, we aim to consistently enhance and improve the lineup with new technology and wider-ranging accessory options like these for 2022.”

2022 Updated Technology

Ride Command

To enhance the rider experience, Indian Motorcycle is introducing a new speed limit overlay feature. The new Ride Command feature allows riders to conveniently see the current legal speed limit on the Ride Command’s map screen or the Navigation split screens while routing to a destination. The new feature is standard on all 2022 Ride Command-equipped models that have connected services, and available as a software update for 2020 and 2021 models. Current owners can visit RideCommand.IndianMotorcycle.com/display for software updates and tutorials.

Additional software updates include expanded Bluetooth device compatibility and a faster load time when booting up the display.

Challenger Traction Control

After listening to valuable rider feedback, all 2022 Indian Challenger models feature a retuned traction control for a smoother feel once traction control is engaged.

Thunderstroke and PowerPlus Models

Models

Indian Motorcycle Thunderstroke and PowerPlus-equipped motorcycles range from baggers to touring models – each offering heritage-inspired design or blacked-out, modern style. Air-cooled baggers and touring models, including Springfield, Chieftain and Roadmaster lineups, pack the Thunderstroke motor, while Challenger models deliver a class-leading 122 horsepower with the liquid-cooled PowerPlus engine. With high-displacement motors, Indian Motorcycle bagger and touring models were engineered to dominate the road. Saddlebags and the Roadmaster tour trunk provide plenty of storage for riding gear and cargo, while wind protection, comfortable ergonomics, floorboards, amenities, and a comfortable two-up seat make these models the ultimate long-distance machines.

This year’s 2022 bagger and touring lineup receives fresh new paint colors across each lineup. Colors like Quartz Gray on the Chieftain Dark Horse and the all-new Spirit Blue over Black Metallic on the Challenger Limited add to each bike’s attitude.

Accessories

To accommodate additional storage needs on longer rides, Indian Motorcycle has released its Spirit Lake Luggage Collection, which includes a Rack Bag, Day Bag and Touring Bag. Each piece features a shoulder strap for convenient carrying off the bike and attaches securely to luggage racks, sissy bars, or the rear of the passenger backrest. Each piece is sold separately but designed as a cohesive collection.

In addition, bagger and touring riders can add personalized style and add visibility to other motorists with all-new rear LED saddlebag lights. Designed to seamlessly integrate with the standard lighting, these Pathfinder Auxiliary LED Saddlebag Lights do not require any drilling, but rather feature a convenient peel-and-stick adhesive for easy and quick install.

New for 2022, Indian Challenger riders can add wind protection with the addition of Hard Lower Fairings. Designed specifically for Challenger models, the Hard Lower Fairings are compatible with all 2020-2022 model year offerings. Riders also have the option to add PowerBand Audio or additional storage compartments within the Hard Lower Fairings.

Pricing & Paint

●      Indian Springfield: Starting at $21,999, available in Maroon Metallic over Crimson Metallic, and Black Metallic over Dirt Track Tan

●      Indian Springfield Dark Horse: Starting at $22,499, available in Black Smoke, and the all-new Quartz Gray

●      Chieftain:  Starting at $21,999, available in Black Metallic

●      Chieftain Dark Horse: Starting at $27,999, available in Black Smoke, Ruby Smoke, and an all-new Quartz Gray

●      Chieftain Limited: Starting at $28,749, available in two new colorways, including Silver Quartz Metallic, Deepwater Metallic

●      Indian Challenger: Starting at $23,999, available in Black Metallic, Titanium Smoke

●      Indian Challenger Dark Horse: Starting at $28,499, available in Black Smoke, Bronze Smoke, and an all-new Indy Red over Black Metallic

●      Indian Challenger Limited: Starting at $27,999, available in Black Metallic, and two new colorways, including Maroon Metallic, Spirit Blue over Black Metallic

●      Roadmaster: Starting at $29,999, available in Black Metallic, and Maroon Metallic over Crimson Metallic

●      Roadmaster Dark Horse: Starting at $30,499, available in Black Smoke, and two new colorways, including Polished Bronze, and Silver Quartz Smoke

●      Roadmaster Limited: Starting at $30,749, available in Black Azure Crystal, Crimson Metallic

Indian Scout Lineup

Models

The robust Indian Scout lineup offers both classic and contemporary designs. The Scout Sixty and Scout Bobber Sixty feature a 60 cubic-inch (999 cc) motor, with 78 horsepower, a low seat height and nimble handling. Riders looking for more punch can opt for the 69 cubic-inch (1133 cc), 100 horsepower engine in the Scout, Scout Bobber and Scout Bobber Twenty.

This year’s 2022 Scout lineup receives a new refresh with paint colors across the lineup – further enhancing the iconic appearance and lines of the bike. Colors like Ruby Smoke on the Scout Bobber Sixty and Spirit Blue Metallic on the Scout Bobber Twenty add to the modern design and low profile look that riders love with Scout Bobber models.

Accessories

Building upon an already robust selection of Scout accessories, Indian Motorcycle has introduced several new accessories to further enhance comfort, style and performance. To enhance comfort while riding two-up, Indian Motorcycle has released its Syndicate Two-Up Seat and Syndicate Low Profile Passenger Backrest. New performance accessories include Adjustable Piggyback Rear Suspension and an Analog Tachometer, while Scout Bobber riders can add personal style with Indian Motorcycle’s new Smoked Turn Signals.

In addition, Indian Motorcycle has introduced a new 5.75-inch Pathfinder Adaptive LED Headlight available for all Scout models. Like it’s seven-inch big brother, the Scout’s Pathfinder Adaptive Headlight delivers unmatched illumination by sensing the bike’s lean angle and activating individual LED beams to provide unprecedented visibility.

Pricing & Paint

●      Scout Sixty: Starting at $9,999, available in Black Metallic, and an all-new Storm Blue

●      Scout Bobber Sixty: Starting at $8,999, available in Black Metallic, Black Smoke, and two new colorways, including Quartz Gray, and Ruby Smoke

●      Scout: Starting at $11,999, available in Black Metallic, White Smoke, and two new colors, including Maroon Metallic, Silver Quartz Metallic over Black Metallic

●      Scout Bobber: Starting at $10,999, available in Black Metallic, Alumina Jade Smoke, Maroon Metallic Smoke, and three new colors, including Stealth Gray, Silver Quartz Smoke, and Titanium Metallic

●      Scout Bobber Twenty: Starting at $11,999, available in Black Metallic, Stealth Gray, and two new colors, including Silver Quartz Smoke, and Spirit Blue Metallic

Initial model year 2022 shipping will vary by model.  In the coming weeks, new 2022 bagger and touring models will begin shipping to dealers. New 2022 Scout models will start shipping early January 2022. Riders can learn more or test ride by visiting a local Indian Motorcycle dealership. For more information on Indian Motorcycle, or to find a dealer, visit IndianMotorcycle.com and follow along on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube.

 

ABOUT INDIAN MOTORCYCLE®

Indian Motorcycle is America’s First Motorcycle Company®. Founded in 1901, Indian Motorcycle has won the hearts of motorcyclists around the world and earned distinction as one of America’s most legendary and iconic brands through unrivaled racing dominance, engineering prowess and countless innovations and industry firsts. Today that heritage and passion is reignited under new brand stewardship. To learn more, please visit www.indianmotorcycle.com.

World Superbike: Team Go Eleven Signs Oettl For 2022

WILKOMMEN PHILIPP OETTL; GO ELEVEN GIVES THE DUCATI V4-RS TO THE GERMAN RIDER, CLASS 1996!

Philipp Oettl collects the legacy left by Chaz Davies on Team Go Eleven’s Ducati Panigale V4-RS, starting from the 2022 season!

Coming from two excellent seasons in the World Supersport Championship, the entry class of the WorldSBK, where he achieved eleven podiums and ended the 2020 season in third place overall riding the Kawasaki ZX-6R, the 25-year-old is ready to jump into the highest category. Oettl, who despite his young age has a wide range of experience in Moto3 and a year in Moto2, immediately showed a great desire to get on the seat, to work on himself to adapt the riding style to the Ducati V4-RS, and great determination to start this journey with the Italian team. Between the parties there is a two-year base agreement, for the 2022 and 2023 WorldSBK seasons, so that Philipp can have plenty of time to adapt to the new category. The common goal will be to grow Round by Round, to improve feeling and sensations in the on the bike at every session. From Supersport to Superbike, the difference is wide, but Team Go Eleven will give full support and will provide everything necessary to obtain the desired results in the shortest possible time!

Concentration remains high to end the 2021 season with a solid weekend in Indonesia, looking to pay homage to Chaz’s extraordinary career with an unforgettable Final Round.

The Team and all the technical staff can’t wait to get on track in the first tests of the season, to see Philipp in action on the Ducati Panigale V4-RS, and start work for next season!

WELCOME PHILIPP!

Philipp Oettl (Rider): 

“I am very happy that after two successful seasons in the WorldSupersport Championship, I can make the step to WorldSBK with Go Eleven! I hope that I can learn fast, I think that this is possible with a good group of people, and with Go Eleven I have all the possibilities to achieve good results. From the outside, Go Eleven was my desired Team, almost from the beginning of the 2022 deals. I can’t wait to start this experience on the big bike, to learn as much as possible, to start next season and to improve Round by Round. I am happy to ride the Ducati, it’s a great manufacturer and I really wanted this opportunity in Superbike, especially considering the successful past Ducati had!”

Denis Sacchetti (Team Manager):

“Philipp achieved very good results in the last two seasons in Supersport, he is young and already has experience in Moto2 and Moto3, then, after having met him personally he gave me excellent sensations. He is a very determined rider and already has a good working method, certainly transmitted by his father Peter, great protagonist of the past of motorcycling; this is certainly an added value, which will help both us and him. This project gives me great excitement, it is certainly an amazing challenge, I can’t wait to see him on our V4-RS, and start working with him. In Go Eleven we are all happy to have him with us, it reflects a bit our philosophy, to believe in young people and give them an opportunity to show their potential in the main category. Philipp has amply demonstrated that he deserves the top class of the World Superbike! Welcome to the Go Eleven family, Philipp!”

Giovanni Ramello (Team Owner):

“The Go Eleven Team, with the entry of Oettl, is back on its path and in its DNA, a young rider and a program over several years that will allow us to grow together and try to achieve good results. I always followed Oettl’s performances since he was in Supersport and I must say that many times he impressed me positively for the grit, the riding style and the strong competitiveness he has always put in every race, despite a bike no longer up compared to the competitor’s ones. We will try to do everything possible to maintain the high level of performance of the bike and be able to demonstrate our skills; we must do the races with the spirit of Go Eleven, professionalism but also moments of fun. I am convinced that without particular pressures Oettl, will be able to make us appreciate his skills and excite us at every race, also reaping the benefits of the great experience gained over the years, despite the young age. I wish him to finish the World Supersport Championship with excellent results and I can’t wait to get back to work for 2022!”

World Supersport: Aegerter Staying With Ten Kate Yamaha In 2022

Ten Kate Yamaha and Dominique Aegerter Extend Successful Collaboration

Dominique Aegerter will ride for the Ten Kate Yamaha WorldSSP Supported Team in the FIM Supersport World Championship again during the 2022 season. The Swiss rider became world champion as a rookie in 2021 and will do everything he can together with the Dutch team to defend the title on the Yamaha R6 next season.

In his debut WorldSSP season, Aegerter made a great impression by taking the world title with 10 victories and 14 podium finishes. The 31-year-old lifted the championship trophy at the penultimate round in Argentina, despite having been forced to miss the Barcelona round. This marked the Dutch team’s 10th WorldSSP and the 11th world championship title overall.

The good feeling and trust in each other provided an excellent foundation for Ten Kate Yamaha and Aegerter to continue their collaboration for the 2022 season.

 

 

Dominique Aegerter

Ten Kate Yamaha WorldSSP Supported Team

I am very happy to continue with Ten Kate Yamaha in 2022. We had a great first season with many successes and the world title. I am looking forward to work with the same group of people next season. I feel very much at home here and we are a strong team. Next year we will have more experience and more data, so the goal will be to defend the world title with the Yamaha R6. Our common goal is to continue and grow together in 2023. I want to thank the team and all partners and sponsors who make our dream possible. But first we go to Indonesia, an important race in which we will try to score as many points as possible for the team championship!

Kervin Bos – Team Manager

Ten Kate Yamaha WorldSSP Supported Team

We are very proud to announce that Dominique Aegerter will join Ten Kate Yamaha next season. We are relatively late with this announcement, but we came to an agreement in an early stage of the season. Dominique fits excellently within the team and his Swiss mentality fits perfectly with our way of working. The goal is to also grow together in 2023, more about that at a later moment. We have one more race to go this year in Indonesia. We can race without pressure, and I expect that we will then see a magnificent Dominique. Sponsors and partners: thank you very much, and we will go for it to take the next step together during the 2022 season!

World Supersport: Debise Riding For GMT94 Yamaha In Indonesia

VALENTIN DEBISE AT GMT94 FOR THE LAST ROUND OF THE WORLDSSP.

Valentin Debise (29 years old – France) will be renewed for an additional race alongside Jules Cluzel in GMT94 Yamaha. The Albigensian pilot had signed two sixth places on the San Juan circuit (Argentina) last October. The GMT94 team wants to give him another chance to put himself forward on the world stage, following his title of French Supersport Champion.

From November 19 to 21, the WorldSBK World Championship will travel to South East Asia on a brand new track. All the drivers will discover it, which represents the best chance for everyone to assert its potential.

Christophe Guyot: “ From Portugal, the GMT94 Yamaha moved back to the race for the final podium of the World Championship in the team standings. In Argentina, GMT94 is the team with the most points. Returning from convalescence, Valentin achieved performances which highlighted him and which could now see him run for the podium of which he has dreamed since Magny-Cours.”

MotoGP: World Championships Still On The Line

MotoGP™ ready for round two vs the rollercoaster, Marquez sidelined

A second visit to the stunning Algarve venue sees plenty on the line but one key player missing as the winner of the last two races sits it out

Tuesday, 02 November 2021

The 2021 FIM MotoGP™ World Champion is decided, but there’s plenty still on the line this season. Two Grands Prix remain, and there are also the Team and Constructor crowns to be fought for. Interestingly too, the next stop is a return ticket to the Autodromo Internacional do Algarve as the paddock gears up for the Grande Premio Brembo do Algarve, so there’s already a point of comparison from this season to get a possible glimpse of what to expect. And now it won’t include the added presence of a stronger Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda Team) as the eight-time World Champion is sidelined as a precaution, having suffered a slight concussion in training on Saturday.

An exact re-run of the Portuguese GP would probably suit newly-crowned Champion Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) just fine though. The Frenchman dominated on our first visit, and headed a top three on the podium that mirrors the 2021 standings exactly. If there hasn’t been a shake up since then, that’s no problem at all for El Diablo – especially as the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP team arrive 13 points clear in the Team standings. But Quartararo was already in his stride as the season began, something that, arguably, Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) hit a little later.

The other obstacle for Bagnaia’s charge to stay with Quartararo on take one in Portugal was a rollercoaster qualifying that saw one lap chalked off for track limits and another for a Yellow Flag. That dropped him ten places behind Quartararo on the grid, and Bagnaia and Joan Mir (Team Suzuki Ecstar) charged from 11th and ninth to second and third, respectively. Now, Bagnaia arrives with the last four pole positions in his pocket… so the sensible bet is against the Italian having to repeat his comeback on take two.

Mir and Suzuki, meanwhile, arrive hoping to repeat that podium but still looking for some Saturday secrets. The 2020 Champion hasn’t ever had a front row in MotoGP™ and despite five podiums this season, has a 2021 best of fifth and that – at the Styrian GP – is the only time he’s started on the front two rows this season. That’s a lot of extra work to do on Sunday and he also arrives on the back foot after a crash out at Misano from 18th on the grid. His performance in Portugal last time out was impressive though, and that will be a positive on the way in – as will the reappearance of Valencia on the horizon, scene of his first MotoGP™ win.

Another positive as the Hamamatsu factory aim to push back towards the very front will be the pace shown by Mir’s teammate Alex Rins in the Portuguese GP. The Spaniard ultimately crashed out, but he’d been able to stay with Quartararo until that point. Can Suzuki come out swinging and challenge again in the Algarve GP?

Ducati and Yamaha will hope not, as the Hamamatsu factory are out of the running in the Team and Constructor standings but could complicate life just ahead of them. The aforementioned 13-point lead for Monster Energy Yamaha in the Teams’ standings is a lead ahead of Ducati Lenovo Team, and Ducati have a 12-point lead in the Constructors’ over… that’s right, Yamaha. Suzuki are third in both. So there could be plenty of key players: Jack Miller (Ducati Lenovo Team), Pramac Racing’s Johann Zarco and Jorge Martin, Enea Bastianini (Avintia Esponsorama), Franco Morbidelli (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP), Petronas Yamaha SRT’s Valentino Rossi and Andrea Dovizioso…

The fight for Rookie of the Year is also heating up. After Martin had taken an early lead, Bastianini is now the rider in the hot seat following another stunning podium taken in the Emilia-Romagna GP. The Italian has a five-point lead over the Spaniard with only two races to go, so it could potentially be wrapped up this weekend, although it seems likely to roll all the way on. Who will come out on top in Portugal?

Top Independent Team rider is another up for grabs this weekend, but it’s a bigger gap and advantage in favour of Zarco. He’s back into fourth overall after a DNF for Miller last time out too, and the Pramac rider has 39 points over Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia Racing Team Gresini). Zarco needs to leave the Algarve GP 26 clear to wrap up the title, so he needs to lose less than 13 to the Aprilia rider.

Aleix Espargaro could also lose touch with Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) this weekend in the fight for seventh and higher in the overall standings, so the number 41 will want to maximise his potential in Portugal. But Binder and KTM are also on the tails of both Marc Marquez and Honda, and Suzuki aren’t mathematically out of reach either for the Austrian factory. With Marc Marquez sidelined too, Honda’s hopes fall more to Pol Espargaro (Repsol Honda Team), fresh from the podium, as well as Takaaki Nakagami (LCR Honda Idemitsu) and Alex Marquez (LCR Honda Castrol).

Back to KTM, the Algarve GP will also be a huge weekend for Miguel Oliveira (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing). The Portuguese rider has had some incredible rides this year, including that impressive win in Catalunya, but after a tougher run he’ll want to end the season on a high. He is a previous winner at Portimão after that demolition job in 2020, although he’ll more likely be aiming for a good points haul and a return to the front this time around. The number 88 was back on form at Misano too, fighting for the podium before his charge was ended by a crash. What can he bring on home turf?

The Championship is settled but there’s plenty more spectacle remaining in 2021. Tune in for the Grande Premio Brembo do Algarve at the earlier time of 13:00 (and now GMT) as the rollercoaster returns to deliver another stunner!

MotoGP™ Championship top five:

1 Fabio Quartararo – Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP – Yamaha – 267

2 Francesco Bagnaia – Ducati Lenovo Team – Ducati – 202

3 Joan Mir – Team Suzuki Ecstar – Suzuki – 175

4 Johann Zarco* – Pramac Racing – Ducati – 152

5 Jack Miller – Ducati Lenovo Team – Ducati – 149

*Independent Team rider

 

 

Moto2™: Gardner on the edge of glory

As we return to the Algarve, the Championship is on the line for the Australian as he heads in 18 points up

During the Moto2™ race the Emilia-Romagna GP, the World Championship looked like it was boiling up to get closer than ever. But in one dramatic moment the landscape changed again, with Raul Fernandez (Red Bull KTM Ajo) crashing out the lead and losing a key chance to cut the gap as teammate and Championship leader Remy Gardner suffered a tougher race in the latter half of the top ten. Instantly, what had been a tough day for the Australian then became his own chance to strike, and the nine points for seventh place saw his lead double in the blink of an eye.

Now 18 points clear, Gardner has a shot at the crown on the Algarve. He needs to ends the race more than 25 clear to wrap up the crown, so the easiest way is to win the race and his teammate not finish second. But there are plenty of possibilities, just as there are in the race… because the last time the intermediate class raced at the Autodromo Internacional do Algarve, Raul Fernandez took his first Moto2™ win.

That bodes well, and it wasn’t as if Gardner failed to finish or suffered a mistake: he came home third. But the Australian also took his first Moto2™ win at the venue last season, so there’s good form for both. In Raul Fernandez’ favour there’s also his proven ability to bounce back when needed – after each of his other two DNFs he returned to the top step in the race after – but then in Gardner’s there’s that incontrovertible 18-point lead. He doesn’t need to stop his teammate taking victory in either of the two remaining races, so Raul Fernandez’ record at both venues isn’t cause to put everything on the line at Portimão.

Aside from the two-horse race for the title though, there are a good few more riders who’ll be lining up alongside the Red Bull KTM Ajo duo and one in particular could play a key role: Sam Lowes (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team). The Brit arrives from his third win of the season and joked himself he was looking forward to taking on Portimão again, having earlier in the season made it as far as Turn 1. Can the Brit come out swinging and fight for another victory? He knows the track well and has shown speed there. Lowes’ teammate Augusto Fernandez may also be one to watch, the number 37 coming back from a Long Lap penalty to take second last time out, and he was in the top five on take one at the track even before he’d hammered out the kinks in his season.

Aron Canet (Inde Aspar Team) will also want to finish ahead of Augusto Fernandez as they fight for fifth in the Championship, and remain in reach of Lowes in fourth, and Canet impressed at the Portuguese GP with his first Moto2™ podium in second place earlier in the year. Fabio Di Giannantonio (Federal Oil Gresini Moto2) is only four points behind Canet too, and he’ll want to get in the mix again after an up and down last few races, with top eights mixed with podium finishes.

Only two riders remain in the fight for the crown. Either Remy Gardner or Raul Fernandez will be the 2021 FIM Moto2™ World Champion, and the Algarve GP could prove the decider. Can Gardner wrap it up? 18 points is a serious advantage, but taking more than seven points more than his teammate has become a serious challenge too. Tune in for the Moto2™ race on Sunday at the later time of 14:30 local time – and it’s now GMT.

Moto2™ Championship top five:

1 Remy Gardner – Red Bull KTM Ajo – Kalex – 280

2 Raul Fernandez – Red Bull KTM Ajo – Kalex – 262

3 Marco Bezzecchi – Sky Racing Team VR46 – Kalex – 206

4 Sam Lowes – Elf Marc VDS Racing Team – Kalex – 165

5 Augusto Fernandez – Elf Marc VDS Racing Team – Kalex – 151

 

 

Acosta vs Foggia: will the Algarve stage the final showdown for the crown?

Take two for Acosta sees the scales swing in his favour, but it won’t be over till it’s over – and Foggia won’t go down without a fight

The Emilia-Romagna GP was a nail-biter for Moto3™. Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Ajo) had his first shot at the crown and rival Dennis Foggia (Leopard Racing) started down in 14th, then even dropping a few more places on Lap 1. But the Italian dug deep despite the pressure, keeping his head to take victory – his third on home soil this season and second at Misano – and keep the battle raging on to the rollercoaster. There could hardly be a better place to stage another showdown either, as the paddock’s first visit to the venue this season saw the fight for the win boil down to a duel: Acosta vs Foggia.

Then, it was the Spaniard’s second win and third podium in his first three Moto3™ races, but now there’s a little more on the line as he arrives 21 points clear in a bid to become the first rookie lightweight class Champion since Loris Capirossi in 1990. And unlike Misano, where Acosta depended on Foggia’s result to be able to secure the crown, Portimão offers the Spaniard a simple equation: win the race, win the Championship. There are other combinations too of course, but a victory for Acosta in one guarantees a victory in the other regardless. Otherwise, the magic number is 26 for the rookie sensation… so just five more than Foggia.

The fact the two already duelled at the track only adds to the spectacle, and we know already there will be a spectacle. We also know, however, that there will likely be a group fight at the front for at least some of the race. Last time on the Algarve it was polesitter Andrea Migno (Rivacold Snipers Team) completing the podium as he fought off the rest of the freight train, which included compatriots Niccolo Antonelli (Avintia VR46 Academy) and Romano Fenati (Sterilgarda Max Racing Team). Ayumu Sasaki (Red Bull KTM Tech3) took fourth as part of his pre-injury early season run of form he’s getting back to, and Jaume Masia (Red Bull KTM Ajo) was fast throughout the weekend before crashing in the race but still rejoining to take ninth place. He also arrives fresh from second place at Misano.

Sergio Garcia (Gaviota GASGAS Aspar Team) is also expected to be back, and his rookie teammate Izan Guevara was fast once again at Misano. Darryn Binder (Petronas Sprinta Racing) will want more after having a pitlane start in the Portuguese GP, too now taking on two final chances to score big in Moto3™ ahead of his move to the premier class, and teammate John McPhee will hope for a smoother weekend after suffering with illness at Emilia-Romagna.

Acosta vs Foggia has been the duel for the Championship for a few races now, and the Algarve GP could be the final showdown for the crown. Can Acosta wrap it up on the second time of asking? Or will Foggia find one final stand to take it down to Valencia? Find out at the slightly later local time of 11:20, and we’ll be racing in GMT.

Moto3™ Championship top five:

1 Pedro Acosta – Red Bull KTM Ajo – KTM –  234

2 Dennis Foggia – Leopard Racing – Honda –  213

3 Sergio Garcia – Gaviota GASGAS Aspar – GASGAS – 168

4 Jaume Masia – Red Bull KTM Ajo – KTM –  155

5 Romano Fenati – Sterilgarda Max Racing Team – Husqvarna – 147

MotoGP: Bradl Riding In Place Of Marc Marquez At Algarve GP

Stefan Bradl. Photo courtesy Repsol Honda
Stefan Bradl. Photo courtesy Repsol Honda

Repsol Honda Team prepare for penultimate push in Portimao

Pol Espargaro arrives in Portugal after the best result of the season as Marc Marquez recovers at home with Stefan Bradl in his place.

As the end of the 2021 MotoGP World Championship looms, the paddock arrives back in Portugal for round 17 as the season comes to a close with back-to-back races. This is fourth and final time the paddock will visit the same track in the season, the two Portuguese races separated by almost half a year.

Pol Espargaro arrives in the Algarve fresh off his best premier class finish, and first Repsol Honda Team podium, with renewed confidence. Although 2021 has been marked by hard moments for Espargaro, he and the Repsol Honda Team have continued to diligently work and improve. The previous race in Portugal was ended prematurely for the #44 due to a technical issue, Espargaro arriving with unfinished business. A top ten finish in the World Championship is also within his reach, Oliveira in tenth is just two points ahead of Espargaro.

Marc Marquez will unfortunately miss the Algarve Grand Prix after a training accident left him with a slight concussion. The #93 had achieved his first back-to-back wins since 2019 before the event.

Honda HRC Test Rider Stefan Bradl will return to the Repsol Honda Team in the place of Marquez in Portimao, Bradl’s fifth appearance of the year. All four of Bradl’s previous on track appearances have led to point scoring finishes with 11th in Qatar his best result so far. Portimao holds fond memories for the German who scored a sterling seventh place there in 2020, his second top ten of the season and highest placed finish of the year.

Pol Espargaro

“We had a great weekend in Misano and we were able to show what we can do on the Honda but now we have a new challenge. Having already raced in Portugal this year will be good as we already have knowledge of the track but I think it could be a bit difficult this weekend compared to Misano. Conditions will be different compared to the last time here so we have to understand what adjustments we will need. The motivation is so high to push in these final rounds and reward the team again. I want to wish Marc a speedy recovery.”

Stefan Bradl

“First of all I hope Marc is recovering well and he can be back on track soon. I am looking forward to riding again as Portimao is an enjoyable circuit where we had a good result towards the end of 2020. It’s never easy to jump on the bike, but we have had a lot of good bike time this year between the races and testing.”

Yamaha R3 bLU cRU European Cup: Registration Now Open For 2022

Julian Giral (76) and Iker Garcia Abella (2) lead a group of Yamaha R3 bLU cRU European Cup riders during the 2021 season. Photo courtesy Yamaha.
Julian Giral (76) and Iker Garcia Abella (2) lead a group of Yamaha R3 bLU cRU European Cup riders during the 2021 season. Photo courtesy Yamaha.

Registration now Open for the 2022 Yamaha R3 bLU cRU European Cup

After a highly successful maiden Yamaha R3 bLU cRU European Cup season, which was won by 17-year-old Spanish rider, Iker Garcia Abella, after a dramatic five-way final showdown at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, registration for the second edition has now opened.

Following two thrilling races in Barcelona, where he beat compatriot Julian Giral to the title by just four points, Garcia Abella will step-up to the FIM Supersport 300 Championship in 2022 with full support from Yamaha Motor Europe. You could be the next rider to fight for this opportunity, by signing up to join the 2022 Yamaha R3 bLU cRU European Cup grid at yamaha-racing.com.

The Cup is the perfect first step on the ladder towards the pinnacle of motorcycle road racing, and ahead of the FIM rule changes on minimum rider age for 2023, Yamaha has decided to incorporate this into its regulations for next year, with those aged 14-20 welcome to contest the 2022 championship. It features as a supporting series to the FIM Superbike World Championship, giving youngsters a chance to showcase their talent in front of the top world championship teams.

All entrants will receive coaching and technical support, while Yamaha R3 machinery and a full riding package, including race leathers, gloves, boots, helmet, tyres and fuel, are provided at a low cost, with season entry fees of just Euro (€) 28,900.

The overall champion will earn a place on the 2023 FIM Supersport 300 World Championship grid with a Yamaha bLU cRU supported team, providing they are over the minimum age of 16 years. Second in the standings will be offered a wildcard entry into the WorldSSP300 for the following season, as well as a 50 percent discount on their 2023 Yamaha R3 bLU cRU European Cup registration, which will also be awarded to the rider who finishes third in the championship.

But that’s not all. A number of riders from the 2022 Yamaha R3 bLU cRU European Cup will be selected to attend the VR46 Yamaha Master Camp in Italy, where they be coached by the same team responsible for advising the VR46 Academy Riders, including Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP rider, Franco Morbidelli.

Following the success of this year’s series, interest is expected to be high, and with only 30 grid slots available for the 2022 season early sign up is essential to avoid missing out on this exciting opportunity. Riders under the minimum age of 14 who were signed up to the Cup in 2021 will also receive special dispensation to compete in the second edition next year.

You can sign up for the 2022 Yamaha R3 bLU cRU European Cup by clicking here.

 

Paolo Pavesio 

Director, Marketing & Motorsport, Yamaha Motor Europe

“This first ever Yamaha R3 bLU cRU European Cup exceeded all our expectations this season. While the protagonists may be young, what they lack in years they certainly make up for in skill and determination. The level of the competition this year has been incredible, with spectators treated to two thrilling races at every one of the six rounds and the championship only being decided in the final race of the season. Congratulations to Iker Garcia Abella on winning the series overall in a spectacular season finale. I look forward to seeing him race for Yamaha in WorldSSP300 next year. Congratulations also to every single one of the riders who contested the inaugural Yamaha R3 bLU cRU European Cup this year and made it such a success. Now we are looking to build on this success by welcoming even more riders to the series in 2022. It was a truly multinational grid this year, but with the easing of international travel restrictions as the threat of Coronavirus diminishes, I am confident that we will see a lot more riders from outside of Europe join the fray in 2022.”

CVMA: Gilbert Wins Open Shootout

Corey Alexander (23), Andy DiBrino (62), and Michael Gilbert (behind Alexander) battle for the lead at the start of the CVMA Open Shootout race at Chuckwalla Valley Raceway. Photo by CaliPhotography.com, courtesy CVMA.
Corey Alexander (23), Andy DiBrino (62), and Michael Gilbert (behind Alexander) battle for the lead at the start of the CVMA Open Shootout race at Chuckwalla Valley Raceway. Photo by CaliPhotography.com, courtesy CVMA.

CVMA Racing Round 2 2021/2022 Winter Series  
 

Racers from all over flocked to the sunny skies and warm weather of the California desert for the second round of the CVMA 2021/2022 winter series. On Friday, the New Racer school graduated ten new racers into the sport and the club continues to grow each and every round.

Saturday morning dawned to beautiful weather and some blisteringly fast times in qualifying. Andy DiBrino was fastest of all turning a 1:44.735 lap time in open qualifying. Fastest on a middleweight bike was Rennie Scaysbrook turning a 1:48.081 lap time. Aden Thao was fastest on an ultra-lightweight bike turning a 1:53.468 lap time.

Saturday’s races were competitive as always with some of the fastest racers in the country leading the way and winning. Highlights from Saturday’s racing included; Alejandro Thermiotis winning two middleweight races and Justin Bordonaro winning two lightweight races on his Aprilia RS 660.

On Sunday, the Open Shootout race was a barn burner with the CVMA #1 plate holder, Michael Gilbert taking the win. DiBrino started the shootout from pole position, but was passed near the end of the first lap by a hard charging Gilbert. Gilbert started from the second row, but was able to make a couple passes on the opening lap to take the lead. After taking the lead, Gilbert stretched out a gap and was never challenged, taking the win by a good margin. Corey Alexander ran second early in the race and DiBrino was close behind. The two traded positions a couple times during the race with DiBrino leading at the start of the final lap. Alexander was able to get the drive exiting turn 4 and pass DiBrino on the inside entering turn 3. Alexander held second position to the line with DiBrino finishing third.

In the Supersport Shootout, Alejandro Thermiotis took the win. At the start, Edgar Zaragoza got the hole shot and the lead for the first few laps. Thermiotis was able to pass Zaragoza and the two traded the lead a couple of times during the race. He was able to take the lead on the final lap and held off Zaragoza for the win. After starting the race from pole position, Scaysbrook fell back due to a poor start. He was able to battle back to secure the final podium spot finishing third.

CVMA offers two full days of racing every race weekend and also includes Saturday qualifying for grid position in all classes, amateur and expert, as well as a wide variety of classes to choose from. The new racer school is conducted every Friday preceding the race weekend for those that would like to get their start in racing.

Additionally, CVMA offers free reciprocity as a means of encouraging racers from other clubs to come out and compete with us during the winter. Log on to www.cvmaracing.com for more information.

CVMA. It’s club racing done right.

*Note: when running the track in the CCW direction we still refer to the corners numbers used when running the track CW.

October 30-31, 2021 @ Chuckwalla – Results

Formula Middleweight

1. Alejandro Thermiotis (Yam YZF-R6)

2. Rennie Scaysbrook (Suz GSX-R600)

3. Harm Jansen (Yam YZF-R6)

4. Edgar Zaragoza (Yam YZF-R6)

5. Cody Newman (Kaw ZX-6R)

6. Tyler Olmstead (Yam YZF-R6)

 

Amateur Formula Middleweight

1. Declan Van Rosmalen (Yam YZF-R6)

2. Alejandro Dominguez Vargas (Kaw ZX-6R)

3. Kevin Hosseini (Yam YZF-R6)

4. Quincy Bowers (Kaw ZX-6R)

5. Dennis Garciadelgado (Yam YZF-R6)

6. Jesus Villalobos (Yam YZF-R6)

 

Amateur Formula Middleweight

1. Alejandro Dominguez Vargas (Kaw ZX-6R)

2. Quincy Bowers (Kaw ZX-6R)

3. Dennis Garciadelgado (Yam YZF-R6)

4. Kevin Hosseini (Yam YZF-R6)

5. Calvin Dickens (Yam YZF-R6)

6. Shawn Rothmeyer (Suz GSX-R600)

 

American Twins

1. Frankie Garcia (Ind FTR)

2. Clayton Braun (H-D FX112)

3. Joshua Nichols (H-D FXDL)

 

Formula 2

1. Justin Bordonaro (Apr RS 660)

2. Jon Glaefke (Duc X60R)

3. Harry Brehm (Kaw ZX-6R)

4. Christopher Newman (Apr RS 660)

5. John Knowles (Suz SV650)

6. Ashley Koehler (Suz SV650)

 

Amateur 350 Supersport

1. Jordan Colon (Yam YZF-R3)

2. Matthew Laoretti (Yam YZF-R3)

3. Dion Hattrup (Kaw EX300)

 

500 Supersport

1. Owen Williams (Kaw EX400)

2. Geoffrey Marshall (Kaw EX400)

3. Savannah Jaska (Kaw EX400)

4. Nathaniel Newberry (Kaw EX400)

5. Tony Perez (Kaw EX400)

6. Jesse Horton (Kaw EX400)

 

350 SuperSport

1. Matt Cavarlez (BMW G310R)

2. Tammy Mingus (Yam YZF-R3)

3. Tristan Delatorre (Yam YZF-R3)

 

Amateur 500 SuperSport

1. Travers Johnson (Kaw EX400)

2. Jojoe Dabalos (Yam YZF-R3)

3. Petro Ksondzyk (Kaw EX400)

4. Cristian Lima (Kaw EX400)

 

Formula Open

1. Andy DiBrino (Kaw ZX-10R)

2. Corey Alexander (Kaw ZX-10R)

3. Michael Gilbert (Kaw ZX-10R)

4. David Anthony (Kaw ZX-10R)

5. Andrew Lee (Kaw ZX-10R)

6. Chad Lewin (Kaw ZX-10RR)

 

Amateur Formula Open

1. Matt Testa (Yam YZF-R1)

2. Troy Simmons (Kaw ZX-10R)

3. Igor Sokolov (Duc Panigale V4 R)

4. Kevin Hosseini (Yam YZF-R6)

5. Dennis Garciadelgado (Kaw ZX-10R)

6. Rodney Thomas (Yam YZF-R1)

 

Formula 40 Ultra Lightweight

1. Luke Sanzone (Kaw EX400)

2. Tony Perez (Kaw EX400)

3. Jojoe Dabalos (Yam YZF-R3)

4. Tristan Delatorre (Yam YZF-R3)

5. Matt Ray (Yam YZF-R3)

6. Angela Brunson (Kaw Ninja 400)

 

Formula Twins

1. Justin Bordonaro (Apr RS 660)

2. Jon Glaefke (Duc X60R)

3. Christopher Newman (Apr RS 660)

4. John Knowles (Suz SV650)

5. Shannon Deane (Apr RS 660)

6. Ashley Koehler (Suz SV650)

 

American Thunder

1. Frankie Garcia (Ind FTR)

2. Eric Stahl (H-D Bagger)

3. Clayton Braun (H-D FX112)

4. Joshua Nichols (H-D FXDL)

 

SuperSport Open

1. Michael Gilbert (Kaw ZX-10R)

2. Corey Alexander (Kaw ZX-10R)

3. David Anthony (Kaw ZX-10R)

4. Andy DiBrino (Kaw ZX-10R)

5. Jack Bakken (Kaw ZX-10R)

6. Nicholas Ciling (Suz GSX-R1000)

 

Amateur SuperSport Open

1. Troy Simmons (Kaw ZX-10R)

2. Igor Sokolov (Duc Panigale V4 R)

3. Geiser Hernandez (Duc 1199 R)

4. Calvin Dickens (Yam YZF-R6)

5. Jamaal Medford (Yam YZF-R1)

6. Allen Pagan (Yam YZF-R6)

 

SuperSport Middleweight

1. Alejandro Thermiotis (Yam YZF-R6)

2. Rennie Scaysbrook (Suz GSX-R600)

3. Tyler Olmstead (Yam YZF-R6)

4. Matthew White (Kaw ZX-6RR)

5. Brian Berdan (Yam YZF-R6)

6. Hunter Ciling (Yam YZF-R6)

 

Amateur SuperSport Middleweight

1. Erik Arnett (Yam YZF-R6)

2. Kevin Hosseini (Yam YZF-R6)

3. Jesus Villalobos (Yam YZF-R6)

4. Quincy Bowers (Kaw ZX-6R)

5. Jackson Kevan (Hon CBR600RR)

6. Alejandro Dominguez Vargas (Kaw ZX-6R)

 

FemmeWalla

1. Mallory Dobbs (Kaw ZX-6R)

2. Emily Grana (Suz GSX-R600)

3. Alyssa Evans (Kaw ZX-6R)

4. Rainey Pogue (Suz GSX-R600)

5. Ashley Koehler (Suz SV650)

6. Bonnie Chiurazzi (Kaw ZX-6R)

 

FemmeWalla Ultra Lightweight

1. Savannah Jaska (Kaw EX400)

2. Tammy Mingus (Yam YZF-R3)

3. Kathy Zhao (Yam YZF-R3)

4. Angela Brunson (Kaw EX400)

 

Formula Ultra Lightweight

1. Aden Thao (Kaw EX400)

2. Owen Williams (Kaw EX400)

3. Luke Sanzone (Kaw EX400)

4. Savannah Jaska (Kaw EX400)

5. Geoffrey Marshall (Kaw EX400)

6. Travers Johnson (Kaw EX400)

 

Formula 40 Lightweight

1. Ralph Staropoli (Yam TZ250)

2. Jon Glaefke (Duc X60R)

3. James Dobson (Yam FZ-07)

4. Jojoe Dabalos (Yam YZF-R3)

 

Formula 40 Middleweight

1. David Kolb (Kaw ZX-6R)

2. Kenneth Yee (Kaw ZX-6R)

3. Dan Sharp (Hon CBR600RR)

4. Dan McCormack (Yam YZF-R6)

5. Calvin Dickens (Yam YZF-R6)

6. Stanley Bates (Yam YZF-R6)

 

Formula 40

1. Gio Alverez (Yam YZF-R1)

2. Wes Farnsworth (Kaw ZX-10R)

3. Mark DeGross (Hon CBR1000RR)

4. Garrick Fulbright (Kaw ZX-10R)

5. Igor Sokolov (Duc Panigale V4 R)

6. Jeff Whitmer (BMW S1000RR)

 

Formula 2

1. Justin Bordonaro (Apr RS 660)

2. Jon Glaefke (Duc X60R)

3. Christopher Newman (Apr RS 660)

4. James Dobson (Yam FZ-07)

5. Harry Brehm (Kaw ZX-6R)

6. Ashley Koehler (Suz SV650)

 

American Twins

1. Frankie Garcia (Ind FTR)

2. Clayton Braun (H-D FX112)

3. Joshua Nichols (H-D FXDL)

 

Formula Open

1. Michael Gilbert (Kaw ZX-10R)

2. Andy DiBrino (Kaw ZX-10R)

3. David Anthony (Kaw ZX-10R)

4. Corey Alexander (Kaw ZX-10R)

5. Chad Lewin (Kaw ZX-10RR)

6. Anthony Norton (Kaw ZX-10R)

 

Amateur Formula Open

1. Matt Testa (Yam YZF-R1)

2. Troy Simmons (Kaw ZX-10R)

3. Igor Sokolov (Duc Panigale V4 R)

4. Kevin Hosseini (Yam YZF-R6)

5. Geiser Hernandez (Duc 1199 R)

6. Allen Pagan (Yam YZF-R6)

 

Formula Middleweight

1. Alejandro Thermiotis (Yam YZF-R6)

2. Edgar Zaragoza (Yam YZF-R6)

3. Harm Jansen (Yam YZF-R6)

4. Rennie Scaysbrook (Suz GSX-R600)

5. Jordan Tropkoff (Suz GSX-R600)

6. Brian Berdan (Yam YZF-R6)

 

Amateur Formula Middleweight

1. Kevin Hosseini (Yam YZF-R6)

2. Ivan Rodriquez (Yam YZF-R6)

3. Quincy Bowers (Kaw ZX-6R)

4. Jesus Villalobos (Yam YZF-R6)

5. Dennis Garciadelgado (Yam YZF-R6)

6. Jackson Kevan (Hon CBR600RR)

 

Amateur 500 SuperSport

1. Travers Johnson (Kaw EX400)

2. Cristian Lima (Kaw EX400)

 

500 Supersport

1. Owen Williams (Kaw EX400)

2. Savannah Jaska (Kaw EX400)

3. Nathaniel Newberry (Kaw EX400)

4. Geoffrey Marshall (Kaw EX400)

5. Luke Sanzone (Kaw EX400)

6. Tony Perez (Kaw EX400)

 

350 SuperSport

1. Yohei Sakane (Yam YZF-R3)

2. Matt Cavarlez (BMW G310R)

3. Tammy Mingus (Yam YZF-R3)

4. Tristan Delatorre (Yam YZF-R3)

5. Kathy Zhao (Yam YZF-R3)

 

Amateur 350 Supersport

1. Jordan Colon (Yam YZF-R3)

2. Matthew Laoretti (Yam YZF-R3)

3. Dion Hattrup (Kaw EX300)

 

American Thunder Shootout

1. Frankie Garcia (Ind FTR)

2. Clayton Braun (H-D FX112)

 

Open Shootout

1. Michael Gilbert (Kaw ZX-10R)

2. Corey Alexander (Kaw ZX-10R)

3. Andy DiBrino (Kaw ZX-10R)

4. David Anthony (Kaw ZX-10R)

5. Anthony Norton (Kaw ZX-10R)

6. Adolfo Delgato (Suz GSX-R1000)

 

Supersport Shootout

1. Alejandro Thermiotis (Yam YZF-R6)

2. Edgar Zaragoza (Yam YZF-R6)

3. Rennie Scaysbrook (Suz GSX-R600)

4. Harm Jansen (Yam YZF-R6)

5. Jordan Tropkoff (Suz GSX-R600)

6. Tyler Olmstead (Yam YZF-R6)

 

Ultra Lightweight Shootout

1. Aden Thao (Kaw EX400)

2. Owen Williams (Kaw EX400)

3. Savannah Jaska (Kaw EX400)

4. Geoffrey Marshall (Kaw EX400)

5. Nathaniel Newberry (Kaw EX400)

6. Jesse Horton (Kaw EX400)

 

Formula Twins

1. Jon Glaefke (Duc X60R)

2. Justin Bordonaro (Apr RS660)

 

Amateur SuperSport Open

1. Troy Simmons (Kaw ZX-10R)

2. Igor Sokolov (Duc Panigale V4 R)

3. Geiser Hernandez (Duc 1199 R)

4. Damian Goldsmith (Yam YZF-R1)

5. Allen Pagan (Yam YZF-R6)

6. Calvin Dickens (Yam YZF-R6)

 

SuperSport Open

1. Michael Gilbert (Kaw ZX-10R)

2. Corey Alexander (Kaw ZX-10R)

3. Andy DiBrino (Kaw ZX-10R)

4. Nicholas Ciling (Suz GSX-R1000)

5. Dan Dickerman (Yam YZF-R1)

6. Wes Farnsworth (Kaw ZX-10R)

 

Formula Ultra Lightweight

1. Aden Thao (Kaw EX400)

2. Owen Williams (Kaw EX400)

3. Savannah Jaska (Kaw EX400)

4. Luke Sanzone (Kaw EX400)

5. Travers Johnson (Kaw EX400)

6. Yohei Sakane (Yam YZF-R3)

 

Amateur SuperSport Middleweight

1. Jesus Villalobos (Yam YZF-R6)

2. Quincy Bowers (Kaw ZX-6R)

3. Ivan Rodriquez (Yam YZF-R6)

4. Jackson Kevan (Hon CBR600RR)

5. Shawn Rothmeyer (Suz GSX-R600)

6. Mike Ciobanu (Suz GSX-R600)

 

SuperSport Middleweight

1. Edgar Zaragoza (Yam YZF-R6)

2. Tyler Olmstead (Yam YZF-R6)

3. Joe Janiga (Kaw ZX-6R)

4. Orel Madar (Kaw ZX-6R)

5. Andre Pettas (Yam YZF-R6)

6. David Kolb (Kaw ZX-6R)

 

Harley-Davidson Sales, Revenue & Profit Up In Q3

Harley-Davidson headquarters in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Photo by David Swarts.
Harley-Davidson headquarters in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Photo by David Swarts.

HARLEY-DAVIDSON DELIVERS SOLID THIRD QUARTER FINANCIAL RESULTS

MILWAUKEE — Harley-Davidson, Inc. (“Harley-Davidson”) (NYSE: HOG) reported third quarter results [October 27].

“Harley-Davidson delivered a solid third quarter and we have seen many of our Hardwire strategic initiatives perform well, providing encouraging initial proof points of our five-year strategy,” said Jochen Zeitz, chairman, president and CEO, Harley-Davidson. “Our teams continue to work to mitigate the impact of the ongoing supply chain challenges that our sector faces, however our performance underlines that we are on course to deliver our long-term Hardwire strategy.”

Third Quarter 2021 Highlights and Results

GAAP diluted EPS of $1.05, up $0.27 over Q3 2020

Total HDI revenue grew 17 percent behind increased shipments and favorable motorcycle unit mix

Motorcycles and Related Products (Motorcycles) segment operating margin was 8.4 percent, which was 3.6 percentage points better than Q3 2020; driven by unit mix, pricing and reduced restructuring expense offsetting the cost increases across the supply chain and the impact of EU tariffs

Financial Services segment operating income growth of $15 million over Q3 2020 driven by lower interest expense

Launched Sportster® S, the all-new Sportster motorcycle built on the Revolution® Max platform

Third Quarter 2021 Results

Q3 consolidated revenue was up 17 percent versus Q3 2020 driven by growth in the Motorcycles segment thanks to stronger unit sales and a favorable unit mix. Total net income growth of 36 percent was driven by growth across both the Motorcycles and the Financial Services segments.

Revenue from the Motorcycles segment was up significantly during the third quarter of 2021 primarily driven by a 12 percent increase in wholesale shipments, favorable motorcycle unit mix and pricing. Parts & Accessories third quarter revenue was down slightly while General Merchandise was flat to Q3 2020 as both businesses faced strong prior year Q3 comparisons as dealers reopened after pandemic-related closures.

Third quarter gross margin was down 3 percentage points to Q3 prior year as a margin benefit attributed from stronger volume, profitable mix and pricing was more than offset by the negative cost headwinds across the supply chain and higher EU tariffs (2.5 percentage point impact). Q3 operating margin finished up versus prior year as the company’s comparison period included heavier Rewire restructuring charges.

Global retail motorcycle sales in the third quarter (down 6 percent to prior year) were impacted by the strategic decisions made as part of the Rewire strategy, including the exit of unprofitable product segments and markets, as well as, macro supply chain challenges, including slower shipping times to the international markets.

Q3 North America retail performance was up over last year, offset by declines across international markets.

Financial Services segment operating income was up over prior year in the third quarter, primarily driven by lower interest expense.

Other Results

Harley-Davidson generated $926 million of cash from operating activities year-to-date in 2021. Cash and cash equivalents were $2.1 billion at the end of the third quarter, down $1.5 billion to the end of Q3 2020 as the company has brought down cash balances.

Tax Rate – The company’s year-to-date effective tax rate was 23 percent.

Dividends – The company paid cash dividends of $0.15 per share in Q3 2021.

Outlook

For the full-year 2021, the company now expects:

Financial Services segment operating income growth of 95 to 105 percent, an increase from the previously communicated range of 75 to 85 percent.

Capital expenditures of $135 million to $150 million, a decrease from the previously communicated range of $190 million to $225 million.

Additionally, our full-year 2021 Motorcycles segment guidance remains unchanged relative to prior guidance. The company continues to expect:

Motorcycles segment revenue growth to be 30 to 35 percent.

GAAP Motorcycles segment operating income margin of 6 to 8 percent given the EU’s decision to keep the current tariff at 31 percent while tariff negotiations occur.

Cash allocation priorities remain to first fund growth through The Hardwire initiatives, then to pay dividends, and the company may also choose to execute discretionary share repurchases.

Company Background

Harley-Davidson, Inc. is the parent company of Harley-Davidson Motor Company and Harley-Davidson Financial Services. Our vision: Building our legend and leading our industry through innovation, evolution and emotion. Our mission: More than building machines, we stand for the timeless pursuit of adventure. Freedom for the soul. Our ambition is to maintain our place as the most desirable motorcycle brand in the world. Since 1903, Harley-Davidson has defined motorcycle culture by delivering a motorcycle lifestyle with distinctive and customizable motorcycles, experiences, motorcycle accessories, riding gear and apparel. Harley-Davidson Financial Services provides financing, insurance and other programs to help get riders on the road. www.harley-davidson.com.

Non-GAAP Disclosure

This press release includes financial measures that have not been calculated in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and are therefore referred to as non-GAAP financial measures. The non-GAAP measures described below are intended to be considered by users as supplemental information to the equivalent GAAP measures, to aid investors in better understanding the company’s financial results. The company believes that these non-GAAP measures provide useful perspective on underlying business results and trends, and a means to assess period-over-period results. These non-GAAP measures should not be considered as a substitute for, or superior to, measures of financial performance prepared in accordance with GAAP. These non-GAAP measures may not be the same as similarly titled measures used by other companies due to possible differences in method and in items or events being adjusted.

The non-GAAP measures included in this press release are adjusted net income and adjusted diluted EPS. These non-GAAP measures exclude restructuring plan costs and the impact of European Union (EU) tariffs. Restructuring plan costs include restructuring expenses as presented in the consolidated statements of operations. The impact of EU tariffs includes incremental EU tariffs imposed beginning in 2018 on the company’s products shipped from the U.S. and, beginning in 2021, on the company’s products shipped from Thailand. These non-GAAP measures, as well as a reconciliation of the comparable GAAP measure to these non-GAAP measures, are included later in this press release.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

The company intends that certain matters discussed in this press release are “forward-looking statements” intended to qualify for the safe harbor from liability established by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can generally be identified as such because the context of the statement will include words such as the company “believes,” “anticipates,” “expects,” “plans,” “may,” “will,” “estimates,” “targets,” “intends,” “forecasts,” “sees,” or words of similar meaning. Similarly, statements that describe or refer to future expectations, future plans, strategies, objectives, outlooks, targets, guidance, commitments, or goals are also forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially, unfavorably or favorably, from those anticipated as of the date of this press release. Certain of such risks and uncertainties are described below. Shareholders, potential investors, and other readers are urged to consider these factors in evaluating the forward-looking statements and are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements included in this press release are only made as of the date of this press release, and the company disclaims any obligation to publicly update such forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances.

Important factors that could affect future results and cause those results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements include, among others, the following: (i) the COVID-19 pandemic, including the length and severity of the pandemic across the globe and the pace of recovery following the pandemic; and (ii) the company’s ability to: (A) execute its business plans and strategies, including The Hardwire and the evolution of LiveWire as a standalone brand, successfully execute its remodeled approach to supply and inventory management, and strengthen its existing business while allowing for desirable growth; (B) mitigate the impact of the revocation of the Binding Origin Information (“BOI”) decisions that allowed the company to supply its European Union market with certain of its motorcycles produced at its Thailand operations at a reduced tariff rate and favorably resolve risks and uncertainties related to the revocation of the BOI decisions including, among other: (1) uncertainties regarding the quantity and mix of motorcycles that the company imports into the EU; (2) whether the company will be granted temporary relief from the effect of the revocation of the BOI decisions; (3) whether the company will be successful in appealing the revocation of the BOI decisions; (4) uncertainties regarding the size and duration of the EU tariffs; and (5) whether and to what extent the company determines to attempt to pass on the impact of the revocation to dealers and its success in doing so; (C) manage supply chain and logistics issues, including quality issues, unexpected interruptions or price increases caused by supplier volatility, raw material shortages or natural disasters, and longer shipping times and increased logistics costs, including by successfully implementing pricing surcharges; (D) invest in electric vehicle (“EV”) technology required to lead the transformation of motorcycling and leverage its engineering expertise, manufacturing footprint, supply chain infrastructure, and global logistics capabilities in the EV sector (E) accurately analyze, predict and react to changing market conditions and successfully adjust to shifting global consumer needs and interests; (F) successfully access the capital and/or credit markets on terms that are acceptable to the company and within its expectations; (G) successfully carry out its global manufacturing and assembly operations; (H) develop and introduce products, services and experiences on a timely basis that the market accepts, that enable the company to generate desired sales levels and that provide the desired financial returns, including successfully implementing and executing plans to strengthen and grow its leadership position in Grand America Touring, large Cruiser and Trike, and growing its complementary businesses; (I) perform in a manner that enables the company to benefit from market opportunities while competing against existing and new competitors; (J) prevent, detect, and remediate any issues with its motorcycles or any issues associated with the manufacturing processes to avoid delays in new model launches, recall campaigns, regulatory agency investigations, increased warranty costs or litigation and adverse effects on its reputation and brand strength, and carry out any product programs or recalls within expected costs and timing; (K) manage the impact that prices for and supply of used motorcycles may have on its business, including on retail sales of new motorcycles; (L) realize expectations concerning market demand for electric models, which will depend in part on the building of necessary infrastructure; (M) successfully manage and reduce costs throughout the business; (N) manage through changes in general economic and business conditions, including changing capital, credit and retail markets, and the changing political environment; (O) continue to develop the capabilities of its distributors and dealers, effectively implement changes relating to its dealers and distribution methods and manage the risks that its independent dealers may have difficulty obtaining capital and managing through changing economic conditions and consumer demand; (P)  continue to develop and maintain a productive relationship with Zhejiang Qianjiang Motorcycle Co., Ltd. and launch related products in a timely manner; (Q)  maintain a productive relationship with Hero MotoCorp as a distributor and licensee of the Harley-Davidson brand name in India; (R) manage and predict the impact that new or adjusted tariffs may have on the company’s ability to sell products internationally, and the cost of raw materials and components; (S) successfully maintain a manner in which to sell motorcycles in China and the company’s ASEAN countries that does not subject its motorcycles to incremental tariffs; (T) manage its Thailand corporate and manufacturing operation in a manner that allows the company to avail itself of preferential free trade agreements and duty rates, and sufficiently lower prices of its motorcycles in certain markets; (U) accurately estimate and adjust to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates, interest rates and commodity prices; (V) retain and attract talented employees, and eliminate personnel duplication, inefficiencies and complexity throughout the organization; (W) prevent a cybersecurity breach involving consumer, employee, dealer, supplier, or company data and respond to evolving regulatory requirements regarding data security; (X) manage the credit quality, the loan servicing and collection activities, and the recovery rates of HDFS’ loan portfolio; (Y) adjust to tax reform, healthcare inflation and reform and pension reform, and successfully estimate the impact of any such reform on the company’s business; (Z) manage through the effects inconsistent and unpredictable weather patterns may have on retail sales of motorcycles; (AA) implement and manage enterprise-wide information technology systems, including systems at its manufacturing facilities; (BB) manage changes and prepare for requirements in legislative and regulatory environments for its products, services and operations; (CC) manage its exposure to product liability claims and commercial or contractual disputes; (DD) continue to manage the relationships and agreements that the company has with its labor unions to help drive long-term competitiveness; (EE) achieve anticipated results with respect to the company’s recently launched pre-owned motorcycle program, Harley-Davidson Certified, and the company’s H-D1 Marketplace; and (FF) accurately predict the margins of its Motorcycles and Related Products segment in light of, among other things, tariffs, the cost associated with product development initiatives and the company’s complex global supply chain.

The company’s operations, demand for its products, and its liquidity could be adversely impacted by work stoppages, facility closures, strikes, natural causes, widespread infectious disease, terrorism, or other factors. Other factors are described in risk factors that the company has disclosed in documents previously filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Many of these risk factors are impacted by the current changing capital, credit and retail markets and the company’s ability to manage through inconsistent economic conditions.

The company’s ability to sell its motorcycles and related products and services and to meet its financial expectations also depends on the ability of the company’s independent dealers to sell its motorcycles and related products and services to retail customers. The company depends on the capability and financial capacity of its independent dealers to develop and implement effective retail sales plans to create demand for the motorcycles and related products and services they purchase from the company. In addition, the company’s independent dealers and distributors may experience difficulties in operating their businesses and selling Harley-Davidson motorcycles and related products and services as a result of weather, economic conditions, the impact of COVID-19, or other factors.

In recent years, HDFS has experienced historically low levels of retail credit losses, but there is no assurance that this will continue. The company believes that HDFS’ retail credit losses may increase over time due to changing consumer credit behavior, HDFS’ efforts to increase prudently structured loan approvals to sub-prime borrowers and the favorable impact of recent federal stimulus payments, as well as actions that the company has taken and could take that impact motorcycle values. Refer to “Risk Factors” under Item 1A of the company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2020 filed with the SEC on February 23, 2021 and Part II, Item 1A of any subsequently filed Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, for a discussion of additional risk factors and a more complete discussion of some of the cautionary statements noted above.

MotoAmerica: AutoParts4Less.com Is New Series Title Sponsor

The start of MotoAmerica Superbike Race Two at Pittsburgh International Race Complex. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
The start of MotoAmerica Superbike Race Two at Pittsburgh International Race Complex in 2021. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.

MotoAmerica Welcomes AutoParts4Less.com As The Title Sponsor Of The 2022 And 2023 MotoAmerica Championship

Highly Successful Aftermarket Auto Parts E-Commerce Platform To Be Title Sponsor Of The 2022 And 2023 Auto Parts 4Less MotoAmerica Championship Series
 

IRVINE, CA (November 2, 2021) – MotoAmerica, North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series, is excited to announce that automotive parts digital marketplace AutoParts4Less.com will be the title sponsor of the 2022 and 2023 MotoAmerica Championship Series, to be known as the Auto Parts 4Less MotoAmerica Championship.

The partnership with MotoAmerica will be Auto Parts 4Less’ first endeavor into motorcycle racing, though the group has been an event sponsor of NASCAR with its LiftKits4Less.com brand and has also sponsored a NASCAR Xfinity Series entry with its Auto Parts 4Less brand.

AutoParts4Less.com is dedicated to offering fans, automotive parts sellers, and businesses a user-friendly platform to sell and buy parts for all vehicles, including cars, trucks, boats, RVs, motorcycles, powersports and more from its multi-vendor marketplace. Buyers purchase parts, as well as installation while having a wide variety of manufacturers to choose from. Auto Parts 4Less is a marketplace that is driven by sellers who want more value being seen and selling their automotive parts online, and consumers who want more value when it comes to purchasing automotive parts.

“We’re excited to have Auto Parts 4Less as the title sponsor for the 2022 and 2023 MotoAmerica Championship seasons,” said MotoAmerica President Wayne Rainey. “This is an important partnership for our series, as it brings a new partner from outside the motorcycle industry to MotoAmerica, and it marks the first time in our history that we will start our season with a title sponsor. It really shows how far we have come in our seven years. This Auto Parts 4Less relationship will further our exposure and increase our rapidly growing numbers as we continue to build our championship. This sponsorship also makes a lot of sense for Auto Parts 4Less, as our fans will become their customers. We can’t wait to get the 2022 season started and get this partnership rolling on track.”

“Our team has always been huge fans of motorsports, it’s heavily ingrained in our company culture,” said Christopher Davenport President of Auto Parts 4Less. “The community is like no other and was a huge reason why we have been involved in NASCAR and now MotoAmerica. Our platform was built by enthusiasts for enthusiasts, these are our roots.”

“Race fans tend to have a stronger relationship with their vehicles, especially when it comes to servicing or tuning,” said Steve Jugan, MotoAmerica’s Vice President of Business Development & Partnerships. “That passion is what we love most about racing fans. AutoParts4Less.com offers an advanced experience for those individuals who like to get their hands dirty and work on their vehicles, so leveraging MotoAmerica to bring further market awareness to Auto Parts 4Less was an easy choice.”

“We are looking forward to an exciting year of racing and business and are thrilled to be able to support this great sport,” said Tim Armes, Chairman of the Board for Auto Parts 4Less. “Our market analysts show motorcyclists rank high for multiple-vehicle ownership, which was a huge draw for us as our website addresses nearly all motorized markets.”

The 10-round 2022 Auto Parts 4Less MotoAmerica Championship begins at Circuit of The Americas in Austin, Texas, April 8-10, and concludes at Barber Motorsports Park in Birmingham, Alabama, September 23-25.

2022 Auto Parts 4Less MotoAmerica Championship Schedule

April 8-10                    Circuit of The Americas MotoGP                             Austin, TX

April 22-24                  Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta                              Braselton, GA

May 20-22                  VIRginia International Raceway                               Alton, VA

June 3-5                     Road America                                                          Elkhart Lake, WI

June 24-26                 Ridge Motorsports Park                                           Shelton, WA

July 8-10                    WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca                       Monterey, CA

July 29-31                  Brainerd International Raceway                               Brainerd, MN

Aug. 19-21                 Pittsburgh International Race Complex                   Wampum, PA

Sept. 9-11                  New Jersey Motorsports Park                                 Millville, NJ

Sept. 23-25                Barber Motorsports Park                                         Birmingham, AL

About MotoAmerica

MotoAmerica is the North American road racing series created in 2014 that is home to the AMA Superbike Championship. MotoAmerica is an affiliate of KRAVE Group LLC, a partnership that includes three-time 500cc World Champion, two-time AMA Superbike Champion, and AMA Hall of Famer Wayne Rainey, ex-racer and former manager of Team Roberts Chuck Aksland, motorsports marketing executive Terry Karges, and businessman Richard Varner. For more information on MotoAmerica, visit www.MotoAmerica.com. Also make sure to follow MotoAmerica on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

About AutoParts4Less.com

AutoParts4Less.com is a multi-seller online digital marketplace dedicated to automotive parts. The wholly owned subsidiary of The 4Less Group, Inc. (OTCQB: FLES), AutoParts4Less.com offers buyers and qualified sellers a wide range of automotive parts for cars, trucks, boats, motorcycles and RV’s on a single platform. With the launch of their automotive marketplace, AutoParts4Less.com, the company expects to have available for sale millions of unique SKUs, as well as multiple sellers for most SKUs listed which in turn will provide customers with more options. The Company is developing best in-class technological modules to increase visitor conversions by adding how-to content and various other services to the websites. Current marketing and branding strategy presently consist of strong SEO traffic, pay-per-click as well as sponsoring drivers in the NASCAR, MotoAmerica, NHRA motorsports. Additionally, as a platform business model, the AutoParts4Less.com marketplace is highly scalable and can take advantage of the network effect meaning as more sellers participate on the platform it will attract more sellers and thus more buyers. Information on FLES can be found at www.the4lessgroup.com.

Indian Updates Technology On 2022 Models

A 2022-model Indian Scout Bobber Twenty in the new Silver Quartz Smoke (left) and a 2022-model Indian Chieftain Dark Horse in the new Quartz-Gray (right). Photo courtesy Indian Motorcycle.
A 2022-model Indian Scout Bobber Twenty in the new Silver Quartz Smoke (left) and a 2022-model Indian Chieftain Dark Horse in the new Quartz-Gray (right). Photo courtesy Indian Motorcycle.

INDIAN MOTORCYCLE INTRODUCES 2022 LINEUP FEATURING UPDATED TECHNOLOGY & ALL-NEW CRUISER, BAGGER, TOURING ACCESSORIES

New Ride Command Update Expands Bluetooth Connectivity & Adds Speed Limit Overlay

New 2022 Accessories Include Premium Luggage Collection,

Adaptive Headlight for Scout Models & More

MINNEAPOLIS, MN – November 2, 2021 – Indian Motorcycle, America’s First Motorcycle Company, today announced its 2022 model year lineup, featuring updated technology and new accessories across its cruiser, bagger and touring models. In addition, the complete 2022 Indian Motorcycle lineup returns with fresh colors across each model lineup.

“Rider feedback continues to be at the forefront of what drives refinements and enhancements for our model year offerings, and that is once again the case for 2022 with a host of new ride-enhancing technology and accessories across the lineup,” said Mike Dougherty, President for Indian Motorcycle. “The introduction of the reimagined Indian Chief in 2021 rounded out a truly comprehensive lineup of cruisers, baggers, and touring models, and with the help of customer feedback, we aim to consistently enhance and improve the lineup with new technology and wider-ranging accessory options like these for 2022.”

2022 Updated Technology

Ride Command

To enhance the rider experience, Indian Motorcycle is introducing a new speed limit overlay feature. The new Ride Command feature allows riders to conveniently see the current legal speed limit on the Ride Command’s map screen or the Navigation split screens while routing to a destination. The new feature is standard on all 2022 Ride Command-equipped models that have connected services, and available as a software update for 2020 and 2021 models. Current owners can visit RideCommand.IndianMotorcycle.com/display for software updates and tutorials.

Additional software updates include expanded Bluetooth device compatibility and a faster load time when booting up the display.

Challenger Traction Control

After listening to valuable rider feedback, all 2022 Indian Challenger models feature a retuned traction control for a smoother feel once traction control is engaged.

Thunderstroke and PowerPlus Models

Models

Indian Motorcycle Thunderstroke and PowerPlus-equipped motorcycles range from baggers to touring models – each offering heritage-inspired design or blacked-out, modern style. Air-cooled baggers and touring models, including Springfield, Chieftain and Roadmaster lineups, pack the Thunderstroke motor, while Challenger models deliver a class-leading 122 horsepower with the liquid-cooled PowerPlus engine. With high-displacement motors, Indian Motorcycle bagger and touring models were engineered to dominate the road. Saddlebags and the Roadmaster tour trunk provide plenty of storage for riding gear and cargo, while wind protection, comfortable ergonomics, floorboards, amenities, and a comfortable two-up seat make these models the ultimate long-distance machines.

This year’s 2022 bagger and touring lineup receives fresh new paint colors across each lineup. Colors like Quartz Gray on the Chieftain Dark Horse and the all-new Spirit Blue over Black Metallic on the Challenger Limited add to each bike’s attitude.

Accessories

To accommodate additional storage needs on longer rides, Indian Motorcycle has released its Spirit Lake Luggage Collection, which includes a Rack Bag, Day Bag and Touring Bag. Each piece features a shoulder strap for convenient carrying off the bike and attaches securely to luggage racks, sissy bars, or the rear of the passenger backrest. Each piece is sold separately but designed as a cohesive collection.

In addition, bagger and touring riders can add personalized style and add visibility to other motorists with all-new rear LED saddlebag lights. Designed to seamlessly integrate with the standard lighting, these Pathfinder Auxiliary LED Saddlebag Lights do not require any drilling, but rather feature a convenient peel-and-stick adhesive for easy and quick install.

New for 2022, Indian Challenger riders can add wind protection with the addition of Hard Lower Fairings. Designed specifically for Challenger models, the Hard Lower Fairings are compatible with all 2020-2022 model year offerings. Riders also have the option to add PowerBand Audio or additional storage compartments within the Hard Lower Fairings.

Pricing & Paint

●      Indian Springfield: Starting at $21,999, available in Maroon Metallic over Crimson Metallic, and Black Metallic over Dirt Track Tan

●      Indian Springfield Dark Horse: Starting at $22,499, available in Black Smoke, and the all-new Quartz Gray

●      Chieftain:  Starting at $21,999, available in Black Metallic

●      Chieftain Dark Horse: Starting at $27,999, available in Black Smoke, Ruby Smoke, and an all-new Quartz Gray

●      Chieftain Limited: Starting at $28,749, available in two new colorways, including Silver Quartz Metallic, Deepwater Metallic

●      Indian Challenger: Starting at $23,999, available in Black Metallic, Titanium Smoke

●      Indian Challenger Dark Horse: Starting at $28,499, available in Black Smoke, Bronze Smoke, and an all-new Indy Red over Black Metallic

●      Indian Challenger Limited: Starting at $27,999, available in Black Metallic, and two new colorways, including Maroon Metallic, Spirit Blue over Black Metallic

●      Roadmaster: Starting at $29,999, available in Black Metallic, and Maroon Metallic over Crimson Metallic

●      Roadmaster Dark Horse: Starting at $30,499, available in Black Smoke, and two new colorways, including Polished Bronze, and Silver Quartz Smoke

●      Roadmaster Limited: Starting at $30,749, available in Black Azure Crystal, Crimson Metallic

Indian Scout Lineup

Models

The robust Indian Scout lineup offers both classic and contemporary designs. The Scout Sixty and Scout Bobber Sixty feature a 60 cubic-inch (999 cc) motor, with 78 horsepower, a low seat height and nimble handling. Riders looking for more punch can opt for the 69 cubic-inch (1133 cc), 100 horsepower engine in the Scout, Scout Bobber and Scout Bobber Twenty.

This year’s 2022 Scout lineup receives a new refresh with paint colors across the lineup – further enhancing the iconic appearance and lines of the bike. Colors like Ruby Smoke on the Scout Bobber Sixty and Spirit Blue Metallic on the Scout Bobber Twenty add to the modern design and low profile look that riders love with Scout Bobber models.

Accessories

Building upon an already robust selection of Scout accessories, Indian Motorcycle has introduced several new accessories to further enhance comfort, style and performance. To enhance comfort while riding two-up, Indian Motorcycle has released its Syndicate Two-Up Seat and Syndicate Low Profile Passenger Backrest. New performance accessories include Adjustable Piggyback Rear Suspension and an Analog Tachometer, while Scout Bobber riders can add personal style with Indian Motorcycle’s new Smoked Turn Signals.

In addition, Indian Motorcycle has introduced a new 5.75-inch Pathfinder Adaptive LED Headlight available for all Scout models. Like it’s seven-inch big brother, the Scout’s Pathfinder Adaptive Headlight delivers unmatched illumination by sensing the bike’s lean angle and activating individual LED beams to provide unprecedented visibility.

Pricing & Paint

●      Scout Sixty: Starting at $9,999, available in Black Metallic, and an all-new Storm Blue

●      Scout Bobber Sixty: Starting at $8,999, available in Black Metallic, Black Smoke, and two new colorways, including Quartz Gray, and Ruby Smoke

●      Scout: Starting at $11,999, available in Black Metallic, White Smoke, and two new colors, including Maroon Metallic, Silver Quartz Metallic over Black Metallic

●      Scout Bobber: Starting at $10,999, available in Black Metallic, Alumina Jade Smoke, Maroon Metallic Smoke, and three new colors, including Stealth Gray, Silver Quartz Smoke, and Titanium Metallic

●      Scout Bobber Twenty: Starting at $11,999, available in Black Metallic, Stealth Gray, and two new colors, including Silver Quartz Smoke, and Spirit Blue Metallic

Initial model year 2022 shipping will vary by model.  In the coming weeks, new 2022 bagger and touring models will begin shipping to dealers. New 2022 Scout models will start shipping early January 2022. Riders can learn more or test ride by visiting a local Indian Motorcycle dealership. For more information on Indian Motorcycle, or to find a dealer, visit IndianMotorcycle.com and follow along on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube.

 

ABOUT INDIAN MOTORCYCLE®

Indian Motorcycle is America’s First Motorcycle Company®. Founded in 1901, Indian Motorcycle has won the hearts of motorcyclists around the world and earned distinction as one of America’s most legendary and iconic brands through unrivaled racing dominance, engineering prowess and countless innovations and industry firsts. Today that heritage and passion is reignited under new brand stewardship. To learn more, please visit www.indianmotorcycle.com.

World Superbike: Team Go Eleven Signs Oettl For 2022

Philipp Oettl (5). Photo courtesy Kawasaki.
Philipp Oettl (5). Photo courtesy Kawasaki.

WILKOMMEN PHILIPP OETTL; GO ELEVEN GIVES THE DUCATI V4-RS TO THE GERMAN RIDER, CLASS 1996!

Philipp Oettl collects the legacy left by Chaz Davies on Team Go Eleven’s Ducati Panigale V4-RS, starting from the 2022 season!

Coming from two excellent seasons in the World Supersport Championship, the entry class of the WorldSBK, where he achieved eleven podiums and ended the 2020 season in third place overall riding the Kawasaki ZX-6R, the 25-year-old is ready to jump into the highest category. Oettl, who despite his young age has a wide range of experience in Moto3 and a year in Moto2, immediately showed a great desire to get on the seat, to work on himself to adapt the riding style to the Ducati V4-RS, and great determination to start this journey with the Italian team. Between the parties there is a two-year base agreement, for the 2022 and 2023 WorldSBK seasons, so that Philipp can have plenty of time to adapt to the new category. The common goal will be to grow Round by Round, to improve feeling and sensations in the on the bike at every session. From Supersport to Superbike, the difference is wide, but Team Go Eleven will give full support and will provide everything necessary to obtain the desired results in the shortest possible time!

Concentration remains high to end the 2021 season with a solid weekend in Indonesia, looking to pay homage to Chaz’s extraordinary career with an unforgettable Final Round.

The Team and all the technical staff can’t wait to get on track in the first tests of the season, to see Philipp in action on the Ducati Panigale V4-RS, and start work for next season!

WELCOME PHILIPP!

Philipp Oettl (Rider): 

“I am very happy that after two successful seasons in the WorldSupersport Championship, I can make the step to WorldSBK with Go Eleven! I hope that I can learn fast, I think that this is possible with a good group of people, and with Go Eleven I have all the possibilities to achieve good results. From the outside, Go Eleven was my desired Team, almost from the beginning of the 2022 deals. I can’t wait to start this experience on the big bike, to learn as much as possible, to start next season and to improve Round by Round. I am happy to ride the Ducati, it’s a great manufacturer and I really wanted this opportunity in Superbike, especially considering the successful past Ducati had!”

Denis Sacchetti (Team Manager):

“Philipp achieved very good results in the last two seasons in Supersport, he is young and already has experience in Moto2 and Moto3, then, after having met him personally he gave me excellent sensations. He is a very determined rider and already has a good working method, certainly transmitted by his father Peter, great protagonist of the past of motorcycling; this is certainly an added value, which will help both us and him. This project gives me great excitement, it is certainly an amazing challenge, I can’t wait to see him on our V4-RS, and start working with him. In Go Eleven we are all happy to have him with us, it reflects a bit our philosophy, to believe in young people and give them an opportunity to show their potential in the main category. Philipp has amply demonstrated that he deserves the top class of the World Superbike! Welcome to the Go Eleven family, Philipp!”

Giovanni Ramello (Team Owner):

“The Go Eleven Team, with the entry of Oettl, is back on its path and in its DNA, a young rider and a program over several years that will allow us to grow together and try to achieve good results. I always followed Oettl’s performances since he was in Supersport and I must say that many times he impressed me positively for the grit, the riding style and the strong competitiveness he has always put in every race, despite a bike no longer up compared to the competitor’s ones. We will try to do everything possible to maintain the high level of performance of the bike and be able to demonstrate our skills; we must do the races with the spirit of Go Eleven, professionalism but also moments of fun. I am convinced that without particular pressures Oettl, will be able to make us appreciate his skills and excite us at every race, also reaping the benefits of the great experience gained over the years, despite the young age. I wish him to finish the World Supersport Championship with excellent results and I can’t wait to get back to work for 2022!”

World Supersport: Aegerter Staying With Ten Kate Yamaha In 2022

Dominique Aegerter (77). Photo courtesy Ten Kate Racing.
Dominique Aegerter (77). Photo courtesy Ten Kate Racing.

Ten Kate Yamaha and Dominique Aegerter Extend Successful Collaboration

Dominique Aegerter will ride for the Ten Kate Yamaha WorldSSP Supported Team in the FIM Supersport World Championship again during the 2022 season. The Swiss rider became world champion as a rookie in 2021 and will do everything he can together with the Dutch team to defend the title on the Yamaha R6 next season.

In his debut WorldSSP season, Aegerter made a great impression by taking the world title with 10 victories and 14 podium finishes. The 31-year-old lifted the championship trophy at the penultimate round in Argentina, despite having been forced to miss the Barcelona round. This marked the Dutch team’s 10th WorldSSP and the 11th world championship title overall.

The good feeling and trust in each other provided an excellent foundation for Ten Kate Yamaha and Aegerter to continue their collaboration for the 2022 season.

 

 

Dominique Aegerter

Ten Kate Yamaha WorldSSP Supported Team

I am very happy to continue with Ten Kate Yamaha in 2022. We had a great first season with many successes and the world title. I am looking forward to work with the same group of people next season. I feel very much at home here and we are a strong team. Next year we will have more experience and more data, so the goal will be to defend the world title with the Yamaha R6. Our common goal is to continue and grow together in 2023. I want to thank the team and all partners and sponsors who make our dream possible. But first we go to Indonesia, an important race in which we will try to score as many points as possible for the team championship!

Kervin Bos – Team Manager

Ten Kate Yamaha WorldSSP Supported Team

We are very proud to announce that Dominique Aegerter will join Ten Kate Yamaha next season. We are relatively late with this announcement, but we came to an agreement in an early stage of the season. Dominique fits excellently within the team and his Swiss mentality fits perfectly with our way of working. The goal is to also grow together in 2023, more about that at a later moment. We have one more race to go this year in Indonesia. We can race without pressure, and I expect that we will then see a magnificent Dominique. Sponsors and partners: thank you very much, and we will go for it to take the next step together during the 2022 season!

World Supersport: Debise Riding For GMT94 Yamaha In Indonesia

Valentin Debise (53). Photo courtesy Yamaha.
Valentin Debise (53) during a World Supersport event with GMT94 Yamaha in 2021. Photo courtesy Yamaha.

VALENTIN DEBISE AT GMT94 FOR THE LAST ROUND OF THE WORLDSSP.

Valentin Debise (29 years old – France) will be renewed for an additional race alongside Jules Cluzel in GMT94 Yamaha. The Albigensian pilot had signed two sixth places on the San Juan circuit (Argentina) last October. The GMT94 team wants to give him another chance to put himself forward on the world stage, following his title of French Supersport Champion.

From November 19 to 21, the WorldSBK World Championship will travel to South East Asia on a brand new track. All the drivers will discover it, which represents the best chance for everyone to assert its potential.

Christophe Guyot: “ From Portugal, the GMT94 Yamaha moved back to the race for the final podium of the World Championship in the team standings. In Argentina, GMT94 is the team with the most points. Returning from convalescence, Valentin achieved performances which highlighted him and which could now see him run for the podium of which he has dreamed since Magny-Cours.”

MotoGP: World Championships Still On The Line

Yamaha's Fabio Quartararo (20) and Ducati's Francesco Bagnaia (63) are still fighting for the Team and Constructor MotoGP World Championships. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Yamaha's Fabio Quartararo (20) and Ducati's Francesco Bagnaia (63) are still fighting for the Team and Constructor MotoGP World Championships. Photo courtesy Dorna.

MotoGP™ ready for round two vs the rollercoaster, Marquez sidelined

A second visit to the stunning Algarve venue sees plenty on the line but one key player missing as the winner of the last two races sits it out

Tuesday, 02 November 2021

The 2021 FIM MotoGP™ World Champion is decided, but there’s plenty still on the line this season. Two Grands Prix remain, and there are also the Team and Constructor crowns to be fought for. Interestingly too, the next stop is a return ticket to the Autodromo Internacional do Algarve as the paddock gears up for the Grande Premio Brembo do Algarve, so there’s already a point of comparison from this season to get a possible glimpse of what to expect. And now it won’t include the added presence of a stronger Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda Team) as the eight-time World Champion is sidelined as a precaution, having suffered a slight concussion in training on Saturday.

An exact re-run of the Portuguese GP would probably suit newly-crowned Champion Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) just fine though. The Frenchman dominated on our first visit, and headed a top three on the podium that mirrors the 2021 standings exactly. If there hasn’t been a shake up since then, that’s no problem at all for El Diablo – especially as the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP team arrive 13 points clear in the Team standings. But Quartararo was already in his stride as the season began, something that, arguably, Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) hit a little later.

The other obstacle for Bagnaia’s charge to stay with Quartararo on take one in Portugal was a rollercoaster qualifying that saw one lap chalked off for track limits and another for a Yellow Flag. That dropped him ten places behind Quartararo on the grid, and Bagnaia and Joan Mir (Team Suzuki Ecstar) charged from 11th and ninth to second and third, respectively. Now, Bagnaia arrives with the last four pole positions in his pocket… so the sensible bet is against the Italian having to repeat his comeback on take two.

Mir and Suzuki, meanwhile, arrive hoping to repeat that podium but still looking for some Saturday secrets. The 2020 Champion hasn’t ever had a front row in MotoGP™ and despite five podiums this season, has a 2021 best of fifth and that – at the Styrian GP – is the only time he’s started on the front two rows this season. That’s a lot of extra work to do on Sunday and he also arrives on the back foot after a crash out at Misano from 18th on the grid. His performance in Portugal last time out was impressive though, and that will be a positive on the way in – as will the reappearance of Valencia on the horizon, scene of his first MotoGP™ win.

Another positive as the Hamamatsu factory aim to push back towards the very front will be the pace shown by Mir’s teammate Alex Rins in the Portuguese GP. The Spaniard ultimately crashed out, but he’d been able to stay with Quartararo until that point. Can Suzuki come out swinging and challenge again in the Algarve GP?

Ducati and Yamaha will hope not, as the Hamamatsu factory are out of the running in the Team and Constructor standings but could complicate life just ahead of them. The aforementioned 13-point lead for Monster Energy Yamaha in the Teams’ standings is a lead ahead of Ducati Lenovo Team, and Ducati have a 12-point lead in the Constructors’ over… that’s right, Yamaha. Suzuki are third in both. So there could be plenty of key players: Jack Miller (Ducati Lenovo Team), Pramac Racing’s Johann Zarco and Jorge Martin, Enea Bastianini (Avintia Esponsorama), Franco Morbidelli (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP), Petronas Yamaha SRT’s Valentino Rossi and Andrea Dovizioso…

The fight for Rookie of the Year is also heating up. After Martin had taken an early lead, Bastianini is now the rider in the hot seat following another stunning podium taken in the Emilia-Romagna GP. The Italian has a five-point lead over the Spaniard with only two races to go, so it could potentially be wrapped up this weekend, although it seems likely to roll all the way on. Who will come out on top in Portugal?

Top Independent Team rider is another up for grabs this weekend, but it’s a bigger gap and advantage in favour of Zarco. He’s back into fourth overall after a DNF for Miller last time out too, and the Pramac rider has 39 points over Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia Racing Team Gresini). Zarco needs to leave the Algarve GP 26 clear to wrap up the title, so he needs to lose less than 13 to the Aprilia rider.

Aleix Espargaro could also lose touch with Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) this weekend in the fight for seventh and higher in the overall standings, so the number 41 will want to maximise his potential in Portugal. But Binder and KTM are also on the tails of both Marc Marquez and Honda, and Suzuki aren’t mathematically out of reach either for the Austrian factory. With Marc Marquez sidelined too, Honda’s hopes fall more to Pol Espargaro (Repsol Honda Team), fresh from the podium, as well as Takaaki Nakagami (LCR Honda Idemitsu) and Alex Marquez (LCR Honda Castrol).

Back to KTM, the Algarve GP will also be a huge weekend for Miguel Oliveira (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing). The Portuguese rider has had some incredible rides this year, including that impressive win in Catalunya, but after a tougher run he’ll want to end the season on a high. He is a previous winner at Portimão after that demolition job in 2020, although he’ll more likely be aiming for a good points haul and a return to the front this time around. The number 88 was back on form at Misano too, fighting for the podium before his charge was ended by a crash. What can he bring on home turf?

The Championship is settled but there’s plenty more spectacle remaining in 2021. Tune in for the Grande Premio Brembo do Algarve at the earlier time of 13:00 (and now GMT) as the rollercoaster returns to deliver another stunner!

MotoGP™ Championship top five:

1 Fabio Quartararo – Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP – Yamaha – 267

2 Francesco Bagnaia – Ducati Lenovo Team – Ducati – 202

3 Joan Mir – Team Suzuki Ecstar – Suzuki – 175

4 Johann Zarco* – Pramac Racing – Ducati – 152

5 Jack Miller – Ducati Lenovo Team – Ducati – 149

*Independent Team rider

 

 

Moto2™: Gardner on the edge of glory

As we return to the Algarve, the Championship is on the line for the Australian as he heads in 18 points up

During the Moto2™ race the Emilia-Romagna GP, the World Championship looked like it was boiling up to get closer than ever. But in one dramatic moment the landscape changed again, with Raul Fernandez (Red Bull KTM Ajo) crashing out the lead and losing a key chance to cut the gap as teammate and Championship leader Remy Gardner suffered a tougher race in the latter half of the top ten. Instantly, what had been a tough day for the Australian then became his own chance to strike, and the nine points for seventh place saw his lead double in the blink of an eye.

Now 18 points clear, Gardner has a shot at the crown on the Algarve. He needs to ends the race more than 25 clear to wrap up the crown, so the easiest way is to win the race and his teammate not finish second. But there are plenty of possibilities, just as there are in the race… because the last time the intermediate class raced at the Autodromo Internacional do Algarve, Raul Fernandez took his first Moto2™ win.

That bodes well, and it wasn’t as if Gardner failed to finish or suffered a mistake: he came home third. But the Australian also took his first Moto2™ win at the venue last season, so there’s good form for both. In Raul Fernandez’ favour there’s also his proven ability to bounce back when needed – after each of his other two DNFs he returned to the top step in the race after – but then in Gardner’s there’s that incontrovertible 18-point lead. He doesn’t need to stop his teammate taking victory in either of the two remaining races, so Raul Fernandez’ record at both venues isn’t cause to put everything on the line at Portimão.

Aside from the two-horse race for the title though, there are a good few more riders who’ll be lining up alongside the Red Bull KTM Ajo duo and one in particular could play a key role: Sam Lowes (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team). The Brit arrives from his third win of the season and joked himself he was looking forward to taking on Portimão again, having earlier in the season made it as far as Turn 1. Can the Brit come out swinging and fight for another victory? He knows the track well and has shown speed there. Lowes’ teammate Augusto Fernandez may also be one to watch, the number 37 coming back from a Long Lap penalty to take second last time out, and he was in the top five on take one at the track even before he’d hammered out the kinks in his season.

Aron Canet (Inde Aspar Team) will also want to finish ahead of Augusto Fernandez as they fight for fifth in the Championship, and remain in reach of Lowes in fourth, and Canet impressed at the Portuguese GP with his first Moto2™ podium in second place earlier in the year. Fabio Di Giannantonio (Federal Oil Gresini Moto2) is only four points behind Canet too, and he’ll want to get in the mix again after an up and down last few races, with top eights mixed with podium finishes.

Only two riders remain in the fight for the crown. Either Remy Gardner or Raul Fernandez will be the 2021 FIM Moto2™ World Champion, and the Algarve GP could prove the decider. Can Gardner wrap it up? 18 points is a serious advantage, but taking more than seven points more than his teammate has become a serious challenge too. Tune in for the Moto2™ race on Sunday at the later time of 14:30 local time – and it’s now GMT.

Moto2™ Championship top five:

1 Remy Gardner – Red Bull KTM Ajo – Kalex – 280

2 Raul Fernandez – Red Bull KTM Ajo – Kalex – 262

3 Marco Bezzecchi – Sky Racing Team VR46 – Kalex – 206

4 Sam Lowes – Elf Marc VDS Racing Team – Kalex – 165

5 Augusto Fernandez – Elf Marc VDS Racing Team – Kalex – 151

 

 

Acosta vs Foggia: will the Algarve stage the final showdown for the crown?

Take two for Acosta sees the scales swing in his favour, but it won’t be over till it’s over – and Foggia won’t go down without a fight

The Emilia-Romagna GP was a nail-biter for Moto3™. Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Ajo) had his first shot at the crown and rival Dennis Foggia (Leopard Racing) started down in 14th, then even dropping a few more places on Lap 1. But the Italian dug deep despite the pressure, keeping his head to take victory – his third on home soil this season and second at Misano – and keep the battle raging on to the rollercoaster. There could hardly be a better place to stage another showdown either, as the paddock’s first visit to the venue this season saw the fight for the win boil down to a duel: Acosta vs Foggia.

Then, it was the Spaniard’s second win and third podium in his first three Moto3™ races, but now there’s a little more on the line as he arrives 21 points clear in a bid to become the first rookie lightweight class Champion since Loris Capirossi in 1990. And unlike Misano, where Acosta depended on Foggia’s result to be able to secure the crown, Portimão offers the Spaniard a simple equation: win the race, win the Championship. There are other combinations too of course, but a victory for Acosta in one guarantees a victory in the other regardless. Otherwise, the magic number is 26 for the rookie sensation… so just five more than Foggia.

The fact the two already duelled at the track only adds to the spectacle, and we know already there will be a spectacle. We also know, however, that there will likely be a group fight at the front for at least some of the race. Last time on the Algarve it was polesitter Andrea Migno (Rivacold Snipers Team) completing the podium as he fought off the rest of the freight train, which included compatriots Niccolo Antonelli (Avintia VR46 Academy) and Romano Fenati (Sterilgarda Max Racing Team). Ayumu Sasaki (Red Bull KTM Tech3) took fourth as part of his pre-injury early season run of form he’s getting back to, and Jaume Masia (Red Bull KTM Ajo) was fast throughout the weekend before crashing in the race but still rejoining to take ninth place. He also arrives fresh from second place at Misano.

Sergio Garcia (Gaviota GASGAS Aspar Team) is also expected to be back, and his rookie teammate Izan Guevara was fast once again at Misano. Darryn Binder (Petronas Sprinta Racing) will want more after having a pitlane start in the Portuguese GP, too now taking on two final chances to score big in Moto3™ ahead of his move to the premier class, and teammate John McPhee will hope for a smoother weekend after suffering with illness at Emilia-Romagna.

Acosta vs Foggia has been the duel for the Championship for a few races now, and the Algarve GP could be the final showdown for the crown. Can Acosta wrap it up on the second time of asking? Or will Foggia find one final stand to take it down to Valencia? Find out at the slightly later local time of 11:20, and we’ll be racing in GMT.

Moto3™ Championship top five:

1 Pedro Acosta – Red Bull KTM Ajo – KTM –  234

2 Dennis Foggia – Leopard Racing – Honda –  213

3 Sergio Garcia – Gaviota GASGAS Aspar – GASGAS – 168

4 Jaume Masia – Red Bull KTM Ajo – KTM –  155

5 Romano Fenati – Sterilgarda Max Racing Team – Husqvarna – 147