The second round of the 2026 FIM EWC takes place at Spa-Francorchamps on 5–6 June with a 45-bike grid, one more entry than last year, setting a new record for the race.
The grid will line up at Spa-Francorchamps on 5–6 June for the 8 Hours of Spa Motos. FIM Endurance World Championship regulars make up the core of the field, with 43 permanent teams joined by two one-event entries for this Belgian round: 17 bikes in EWC, 19 in Superstock and 9 in Production.
South Carolina Becomes Latest State to Pass Right to Race Law
PICKERINGTON, Ohio — South Carolina became the fourth state to sign Right to Race legislation into law after Gov. Henry McMaster (R) signed H. 4706 on Tuesday, May 19.
This recent development from South Carolina further signals the growing momentum behind Right to Race bills. The American Motorcyclist Association has actively supported this legislation alongside the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) and the Performance Racing Industry (PRI), lending its voice in support of efforts to protect pre-existing racetracks from nuisance claims across the country.
“The passage of H. 4706 is another welcome addition to the growing support behind Right to Race legislation across the country,” AMA Eastern States Representative Max Colchin said. “We are grateful to Governor McMaster for signing this legislation and to South Carolina’s lawmakers for their commitment to protecting the state’s racetracks. We look forward to building on this momentum in statehouses across the country.”
H. 4706 states that pre-existing racing facilities cannot face any nuisance claims from surrounding property owners within a three-mile radius, as long as the developer of the racing facility obtained all necessary permits or established the development of the facility before the property owner purchased their land or began construction.
The racing industry annually contributes close to $1 billion in economic output within South Carolina and creates more than 5,000 full-time jobs.
South Carolina joins Iowa, North Carolina and Kansas as states to sign Right to Race legislation into law. Michigan, Ohio and Oklahoma all currently have active Right to Race bills in their state legislatures.
Stay engaged with the latest Right to Race news, as well as all other issues impacting motorcycling, at AmericanMotorcyclist.com/rights/ .
Woodcliff Lake, NJ – May 22, 2026 . . . With the BMW M 1000 RR Limited Edition Isle of Man TT, BMW Motorrad introduces a special model limited to 115 units globally to mark the 115th running of the Isle of Man Tourist Trophy in 2026. The edition is based on the BMW M 1000 RR M Competition model and combines exclusive TT design elements with carefully selected equipment features and collector attributes.
Markus Flasch, CEO of BMW Motorrad: “Racing is part of BMW Motorrad’s DNA. The BMW M 1000 RR Limited Edition Isle of Man TT is therefore the logical evolution of a special model based on the BMW M 1000 RR. This model bridges our successful TT heritage and our M models, and is a strong expression of racing DNA, technical precision and exclusivity.”
With this edition limited to 115 units, BMW Motorrad pays tribute to one of the most historic and demanding road races in the world. Key features include the British Racing Green Uni Matt paint finish, selected Mountain Course graphics, and sequential numbering with a certificate of authenticity.
Left side view of the BMW Motorrad M 1000 RR Limited Edition Isle of Man TT.
BMW Motorrad M 1000 RR Limited Edition Isle of Man TT
Distinctive Design
The design of the Limited Edition is consistently aligned with TT DNA: British Racing Green Matte color with special TT graphics featuring selected sections of the TT Mountain Course – left-hand turns on the left, right-hand turns on the right fairing side. A carbon airbox cover with TT course and TT logo, further carefully placed details, and a seat in Alcantara finish underscore the motorsport character. The aluminum tank with graphic accents completes the unique appearance.
Detail of the BMW Motorrad M 1000 RR Limited Edition Isle of Man TT.
Limited Edition Equipment
In addition to all standard equipment found on the BMW M 1000 RR with M Competition package, this limited-edition model will also include the following exclusive features:
Milled numbering on the top yoke
Certificate of Authenticity
British Racing Green Matte paint finish including specific TT graphics:
Selected left-hand turns on the left fairing side
Selected right-hand turns on the right fairing side
Aluminum tank painted in Satin Chrome including graphics
Black Alcantara seat
Matte-finish M carbon airbox cover, with Mountain Course graphic and TT logo
M Race Cover Kit
Black swingarm
TT branding and lettering on the rear frame
Rear wheelstand with mounting equipment.
M Motorcycle Mat (98 x 41 inches) with M logo and TT logos
Homage to the Isle of Man Tourist Trophy
For decades, the Tourist Trophy has stood for outstanding rider skill, maximum precision and exceptional technical performance.
BMW Motorrad has a close connection to this history – from Georg Meier’s legendary TT victory in 1939 to current successes on the S 1000 RR and M 1000 RR. The Limited-Edition model takes up this heritage and translates it into a distinctive, exclusive production model.
BMW Motorrad and the TT: Historical Milestones
In 1939, Georg Meier won the Senior TT on the BMW RS 255 Kompressor. In 1976, another major TT success followed: Helmut Dähne, together with Hans-Otto Butenuth, won the 1,000 cc Production class on the BMW R 90 S. In the modern era, BMW Motorrad has continued this tradition on the Mountain Course with the S 1000 RR and later the M 1000 RR.
Successes since 2014
Since the introduction of the RR models in the modern TT era, BMW Motorrad has repeatedly demonstrated its competitiveness on the Mountain Course. Michael Dunlop achieved a breakthrough in the 1,000cc class on the BMW S 1000 RR in 2014. Peter Hickman shaped the more recent period of success with multiple victories, including a hat-trick in 2022 in the Superbike, Superstock and Senior TT races on BMW motorcycles. In 2025, Davey Todd further underlined the performance of the BMW M 1000 RR with a Superbike victory and additional strong results in the 1,000 cc classes. A particularly striking testament to current performance is the overall all-time lap record on the TT Mountain Course set in 2023: 16:36.115 minutes with an average speed of 136.358 mph (approx. 219.4 km/h), achieved by Peter Hickman on a BMW M 1000 RR in Superstock specification.
Very Limited Availability
The M 1000 RR Limited Edition Isle of Man TT will be produced in a strictly limited run of 115 global units, further emphasizing its exclusive collector character.
Catch up on all the key stories from the two-day Misano test as WorldSBK prepares for the upcoming round.
The MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship might be between rounds at the moment, but that doesn’t mean the track action has stopped. Most of the grid have headed from Czechia to Italy for a two-day test at the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship at the iconic Italian venue, which was topped by Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati). Catch up on all the key stories from the two-day test.
FASTEST RIDERS
Bulega was the fastest of the riders, setting a 1’31.769s on Day 2 in the afternoon session to cement top spot, four tenths clear of teammate Iker Lecuona (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati), while the #11 also topped Wednesday’s running. His fastest time of the test was under the existing race lap record (1’32.687s) and just a tenth away from the pole lap record (1’31.618s). Lecuona finished in second place across both days of action with a 1’32.182s as he worked on setups on his Panigale V4R machine. The pair completed 109 and 163 laps across the test respectively. Yari Montella (Barni Spark Racing Team) was third, 0.513s down on Bulega, with Sam Lowes (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team) just 0.002s down on the #5. The top five was completed by Alberto Surra (Motocorsa Racing), who set a 1’32.399s to finish in P5, 0.630s down on Bulega’s time.
DIXON RETURNS FROM INJURY
Jake Dixon (Honda HRC) has been missing from WorldSBK action since the Official Test at Phillip Island as he recovered from the wrist fractures he sustained in a crash. The Misano test was the first time he was back on the CBR1000RR-R machine as his recovery stepped up a gear. He finished Day 1 in 17th place overall, the fastest Honda rider, with a 1’33.941s. He also racked up 50 laps across the day and added another 37 on Thursday. Across the whole test, Thai rider Somkiat Chantra (Honda HRC) was the fastest Honda rider in 17th place after setting a 1’33.345s, and he racked up 224 laps across the two days, the most of anybody. Test rider Jonathan Rea was also at Misano as he worked with the Honda HRC test team, finishing two tenths down on Dixon’s time.
BARNI DUCATI’S NEW COLLABORATION
The Barni Spark Racing Team announced on Wednesday of the test a new partnership with Suter Industries to further develop the double-sided Ducati swingarm, and that partnership made its debut on track on Day 1 of the Misano testing. Featuring only Montella (after teammate Alvaro Bautista’s surgery earlier this week, the #5 finished third on Day 1 with a 1’32.444s and repeated that position on Day 2 with a 1’32.282s as he completed 157 laps.
KAWASAKI’S PROGRESS SET TO CONTINUE
Garrett Gerloff (Kawasaki WorldSBK Team) has been in fine form in the last two rounds, and the Texan is now on a run of five consecutive top ten finishes, including a best result in 18 months when he finished P4 in Race 1 at Most. His eight top ten finishes this year already beat last year’s tally of six, and Kawasaki have been working hard to make sure that run continues. The Japanese manufacturer said ahead of the test they would have new components to try and would work to refine the setup. Gerloff finished fifth on Day 1 and was seventh after Friday’s action concluded, setting a 1’32.457s; he was the only WorldSBK rider not to improve his time on Day 2.
WORK CONTINUES AT YAMAHA
It’s been a tricky start to 2026 for Yamaha, but in recent rounds they’ve been closer to the top five. Andrea Locatelli (Pata Maxus Yamaha) appears to be getting back to his best while teammate Xavi Vierge couldn’t have adapted to the Yamaha R1 any quicker. Niccolo Canepa, Yamaha Motor Europe’s Road Racing Sporting Manager, stated ahead of the test that they would evaluate the package to make gains in the second half of the season. Remy Gardner (GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) finished as the fastest Yamaha across the two-day test in tenth place after posting a 1’32.561s.
VAN DER MARK AND SOOMER RIDE FOR BMW
With race riders Miguel Oliveira (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) and teammate Danilo Petrucci recovering from injury, BMW called upon Michael van der Mark and Hannes Soomer for the Misano test. The Dutchman led the German manufacturer’s charge throughout the test, claiming 16th on the combined timesheets with a 1’33.119s. Soomer was 20thwith a 1’34.000s and the pair completed 367 laps between them, with van der Mark completing 200 of those.
BIMOTA LOOK FOR IMPROVED SETTINGS
Both Alex Lowes and Axel Bassani were on track for the bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team squad at Misano, searching for improved settings on their KB998 Rimini as they look to return to the rostrum after missing out since the season-opening Australian Round. The #47 was the faster of the pair as he finished in sixth place with a 1’32.430s, with Alex Lowes two places and less than a tenth behind his teammate. The pair completed 172 and 160 laps respectively.
The top 10 from the Misano test (lap count in brackets), full results here:
Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) 1’31.769s (109)
Iker Lecuona (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) +0.413s (163)
Yari Montella (Barni Spark Racing Team) +0.513s (157)
Sam Lowes (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team) +0.515s (175)
Alberto Surra (Motocorsa Racing) +0.630s (118)
Axel Bassani (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team) +0.661s (172)
I’ve released a new video on my YouTube channel. In this latest video, I talk about building my dream race bike, A Ducati Panigale V4R. I talk about what it took to get the bike race worthy and what it is like to ride now that it is done. It was a bit of a nightmare, but I ended up with a bike I’m really happy with.
American racers Max Toth (#27) and Nolan Lamkin (#21) will join Saddlemen Racing Development, on board Harley-Davidson Road Glides, for the upcoming Road America round of the MotoAmerica King of the Baggers championship May 29-31, 2026.
20-year-old Toth and 25-year-old Lamkin have never raced baggers before but are looking forward to the challenge.
Nolan Lamkin, the 2023 MotoAmerica Superbike Cup Champion, will fill in for Saddlemen’s Cory West, who will be in Mugello, Italy, competing in the first European round of the FIM Harley-Davidson Bagger World Cup.
Max Toth has been racing his entire life, including winning races in the MotoAmerica Junior Cup as well as numerous European championships. He’ll be competing on the bike normally ridden by Jake Lewis, as Lewis heads to Mugello to race in the Bagger World Cup that same week.
WorldSBK launches all-new website and app with VideoPass now available on mobile devices worldwide.
The MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship has unveiled a completely redesigned digital experience with the launch of a new-look official websiteand mobile app, bringing fans closer to the action than ever before.
A major new addition for 2026 is the expansion of the WorldSBK VideoPass service to mobile devices through the new official WorldSBK app, now available via the Apple App Store and Google Play Store in most territories worldwide.
For the first time, fans can enjoy live streaming of every session and every race directly through the app, ensuring uninterrupted access to the full WorldSBK experience wherever they are. From Free Practice to the final chequered flag across all 12 rounds of the season, the new platform delivers comprehensive live coverage directly to fans’ pockets.
Alongside live streaming, the app retains key fan-favourite features including Live Timing and Live Tracking, while also providing access to the latest news, video clips, highlights and behind-the-scenes content from across the paddock.
The redesigned official WorldSBK website complements the upgraded app experience with a cleaner, more modern interface and improved navigation. WorldSBK VideoPass subscribers will also benefit from a dedicated viewing environment featuring full race replays, complete session archives, documentaries and exclusive special features, allowing fans to relive classic moments and catch up on the latest action at any time.
The launch marks another step forward in WorldSBK’s digital offering, focused on delivering a more accessible, immersive and flexible experience for fans around the world.
Ella Dreher is a talented 16-year-old competing in the MotoAmerica Supersport class. On May 17th, during Race 2, she was involved in a serious accident that resulted in pelvic fractures and a fractured C3 vertebrae.
Ella has already undergone successful surgery, but these injuries will require a long and difficult recovery process. The medical expenses, rehabilitation, and physical therapy will place a significant burden on Ella and her family, and we want to help ensure she receives the best care and support possible throughout her recovery. Anyone who knows Ella knows the determination, strength, and passion she brings both on and off the track. She has already shown incredible resilience, and we know she’ll bring that same fighting spirit into her recovery journey.
Any support — whether through a donation or simply sharing this fundraiser — would mean the world to Ella and her family during this challenging time. Together, we can help give her the best possible chance to heal, recover, return to the sport she loves.
The following is from Ella Dreher: “Just wanted everyone to know where I am at after my crash at Barber. On Monday, I had surgery to repair two pelvic fractures. I also have a small fracture on my C3 vertebra and suffered a pretty decent concussion. The doctors at UAB Hospital here in Birmingham have assured me that, with proper care, this will all heal fully in time, and I am being released from the hospital today.
I want to thank Dr. Price and his MotoAmerica medical team for everything they do for us riders. We are so lucky to have you. I also need to thank all of my fans, friends, and family. The amount of people who have reached out the last couple of days is truly overwhelming. I appreciate you all more than you could ever know.”
Rancho Cucamonga, CA – Dunlop Tires is proud to introduce the all-new Geomax MX54, the next evolution in intermediate to hard terrain motocross performance. Building on the proven foundation of the Geomax MX53 with updates from the Geomax MX34, the MX54 is engineered to deliver optimized performance across a broader range of track conditions, with a focus on consistency, control, and durability as terrain evolves from intermediate to hard-packed.
Designed for where most riders compete, the MX54 bridges the gap between soft-intermediate terrain and hard terrain stability. The result is a tire that performs at a high level across changing track conditions, maintaining predictable feel from morning moisture to late-day hard-pack.
At the core of the MX54 rear tire is a tread pattern derived directly from Dunlop’s Geomax Factory Spec tire, delivering enhanced drive grip, improved slide control, and increased traction under acceleration. This proven design allows riders to maximize forward drive while maintaining confidence in demanding conditions.
The MX54 front tire features an all-new tread pattern engineered to improve turn-in precision, cornering stability, and braking performance. By refining block placement and optimizing knob stiffness, Dunlop has created a front tire that offers more consistent feedback and improved line-holding ability, especially as tracks become slick and hard-packed.
Dunlop’s patented Progressive Cornering Block Technology Advanced is utilized to enhance flexibility and increase the number of biting edges. This results in improved grip, better compliance, and more predictable handling across a wide range of terrain conditions.
In addition to tread design advancements, the MX54 incorporates an updated compound and carcass construction to improve durability and maintain performance over longer motos. Enhanced wear resistance ensures that riders experience consistent performance throughout the life of the tire, even in abrasive track conditions.
The Geomax MX54 is a direct replacement for the MX53, offering riders a clear step forward in performance with expanded capability in harder terrain while retaining the versatility expected from an intermediate-hard terrain tire.
“The MX54 represents the next step in our motocross tire evolution,” said Chad Geer, Director of Motorcycle Marketing & Motorsports. “We’ve taken everything we learned from the success of the MX53 and applied it to a tire that delivers more consistency, more control, and more confidence for today’s riders and racing conditions.”
The Geomax MX54 lineup will be available through authorized Dunlop Motorcycle Tires dealers nationwide.
About Dunlop Tires:
Dunlop is the largest supplier of original equipment and replacement motorcycle tires in North America. For more information, visit www.DunlopMotorcycleTires.com. Follow @RideDunlop on Instagram, Facebook, and X for the latest Dunlop news. Use #RideDunlop and #RaceDunlop to share your Dunlop moments.
Rossi Attila Moor will begin his 2026 Moto2 European Championship season in Barcelona this weekend.
The Hungarian-American rider will line up at the Circuit de Barcelona Catalunya on the May 22–24 weekend, as part of the FIM MotoJunior World Championship event.
The season opener will be an important professional challenge for Rossi. The Barcelona circuit is fast, technical, and physically demanding, where bike setup, track grip conditions, weather, and race pace all play a decisive role.
Rossi’s lap times at the official Jerez tests gave the team positive impressions, but test results should always be treated as a starting point, not a final benchmark. Every track is different, every condition is different, and a race weekend always brings new tasks for both the rider and the technical crew.
The Barcelona program begins on Friday with two free practice sessions, followed by Saturday’s practice and qualifying sessions. On Sunday, the Moto2 field will take part in two races, each consisting of 15 laps.
One of the key new elements for Rossi this season is that he is working with a highly trained technical staff who have been preparing the bike and the professional weekend structure with him from the very start of the season. The goal is to build a competitive base through continuous development and calm, professional work.
Rossi Attila Moor: “Jerez was a positive test for us, but Barcelona is a completely new weekend and a completely new challenge. In Moto2, every track is different, so from Friday onward we need to work step by step. Together with the technical team, we’re focused on preparing the most competitive bike possible. As always, I’ll give 110%, and then we’ll see what that brings by the end of the weekend.”
Rossi arrives in Barcelona motivated, focused, and ready to race.
Start of the 8 Hours of SPA in 2025. Photo courtesy FIM EWC.
The second round of the 2026 FIM EWC takes place at Spa-Francorchamps on 5–6 June with a 45-bike grid, one more entry than last year, setting a new record for the race.
The grid will line up at Spa-Francorchamps on 5–6 June for the 8 Hours of Spa Motos. FIM Endurance World Championship regulars make up the core of the field, with 43 permanent teams joined by two one-event entries for this Belgian round: 17 bikes in EWC, 19 in Superstock and 9 in Production.
South Carolina has passed a Right To Race law to protect existing tracks from nuisance noise complaints filed by new arrivals. Photo by Jeff Kardas.
South Carolina Becomes Latest State to Pass Right to Race Law
PICKERINGTON, Ohio — South Carolina became the fourth state to sign Right to Race legislation into law after Gov. Henry McMaster (R) signed H. 4706 on Tuesday, May 19.
This recent development from South Carolina further signals the growing momentum behind Right to Race bills. The American Motorcyclist Association has actively supported this legislation alongside the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) and the Performance Racing Industry (PRI), lending its voice in support of efforts to protect pre-existing racetracks from nuisance claims across the country.
“The passage of H. 4706 is another welcome addition to the growing support behind Right to Race legislation across the country,” AMA Eastern States Representative Max Colchin said. “We are grateful to Governor McMaster for signing this legislation and to South Carolina’s lawmakers for their commitment to protecting the state’s racetracks. We look forward to building on this momentum in statehouses across the country.”
H. 4706 states that pre-existing racing facilities cannot face any nuisance claims from surrounding property owners within a three-mile radius, as long as the developer of the racing facility obtained all necessary permits or established the development of the facility before the property owner purchased their land or began construction.
The racing industry annually contributes close to $1 billion in economic output within South Carolina and creates more than 5,000 full-time jobs.
South Carolina joins Iowa, North Carolina and Kansas as states to sign Right to Race legislation into law. Michigan, Ohio and Oklahoma all currently have active Right to Race bills in their state legislatures.
Stay engaged with the latest Right to Race news, as well as all other issues impacting motorcycling, at AmericanMotorcyclist.com/rights/ .
Woodcliff Lake, NJ – May 22, 2026 . . . With the BMW M 1000 RR Limited Edition Isle of Man TT, BMW Motorrad introduces a special model limited to 115 units globally to mark the 115th running of the Isle of Man Tourist Trophy in 2026. The edition is based on the BMW M 1000 RR M Competition model and combines exclusive TT design elements with carefully selected equipment features and collector attributes.
Markus Flasch, CEO of BMW Motorrad: “Racing is part of BMW Motorrad’s DNA. The BMW M 1000 RR Limited Edition Isle of Man TT is therefore the logical evolution of a special model based on the BMW M 1000 RR. This model bridges our successful TT heritage and our M models, and is a strong expression of racing DNA, technical precision and exclusivity.”
With this edition limited to 115 units, BMW Motorrad pays tribute to one of the most historic and demanding road races in the world. Key features include the British Racing Green Uni Matt paint finish, selected Mountain Course graphics, and sequential numbering with a certificate of authenticity.
Left side view of the BMW Motorrad M 1000 RR Limited Edition Isle of Man TT.
BMW Motorrad M 1000 RR Limited Edition Isle of Man TT
Distinctive Design
The design of the Limited Edition is consistently aligned with TT DNA: British Racing Green Matte color with special TT graphics featuring selected sections of the TT Mountain Course – left-hand turns on the left, right-hand turns on the right fairing side. A carbon airbox cover with TT course and TT logo, further carefully placed details, and a seat in Alcantara finish underscore the motorsport character. The aluminum tank with graphic accents completes the unique appearance.
Detail of the BMW Motorrad M 1000 RR Limited Edition Isle of Man TT.
Limited Edition Equipment
In addition to all standard equipment found on the BMW M 1000 RR with M Competition package, this limited-edition model will also include the following exclusive features:
Milled numbering on the top yoke
Certificate of Authenticity
British Racing Green Matte paint finish including specific TT graphics:
Selected left-hand turns on the left fairing side
Selected right-hand turns on the right fairing side
Aluminum tank painted in Satin Chrome including graphics
Black Alcantara seat
Matte-finish M carbon airbox cover, with Mountain Course graphic and TT logo
M Race Cover Kit
Black swingarm
TT branding and lettering on the rear frame
Rear wheelstand with mounting equipment.
M Motorcycle Mat (98 x 41 inches) with M logo and TT logos
Homage to the Isle of Man Tourist Trophy
For decades, the Tourist Trophy has stood for outstanding rider skill, maximum precision and exceptional technical performance.
BMW Motorrad has a close connection to this history – from Georg Meier’s legendary TT victory in 1939 to current successes on the S 1000 RR and M 1000 RR. The Limited-Edition model takes up this heritage and translates it into a distinctive, exclusive production model.
BMW Motorrad and the TT: Historical Milestones
In 1939, Georg Meier won the Senior TT on the BMW RS 255 Kompressor. In 1976, another major TT success followed: Helmut Dähne, together with Hans-Otto Butenuth, won the 1,000 cc Production class on the BMW R 90 S. In the modern era, BMW Motorrad has continued this tradition on the Mountain Course with the S 1000 RR and later the M 1000 RR.
Successes since 2014
Since the introduction of the RR models in the modern TT era, BMW Motorrad has repeatedly demonstrated its competitiveness on the Mountain Course. Michael Dunlop achieved a breakthrough in the 1,000cc class on the BMW S 1000 RR in 2014. Peter Hickman shaped the more recent period of success with multiple victories, including a hat-trick in 2022 in the Superbike, Superstock and Senior TT races on BMW motorcycles. In 2025, Davey Todd further underlined the performance of the BMW M 1000 RR with a Superbike victory and additional strong results in the 1,000 cc classes. A particularly striking testament to current performance is the overall all-time lap record on the TT Mountain Course set in 2023: 16:36.115 minutes with an average speed of 136.358 mph (approx. 219.4 km/h), achieved by Peter Hickman on a BMW M 1000 RR in Superstock specification.
Very Limited Availability
The M 1000 RR Limited Edition Isle of Man TT will be produced in a strictly limited run of 115 global units, further emphasizing its exclusive collector character.
Nicolo Bulega (11) during the WSBK test at Misano. Photo courtesy WSBK.
Catch up on all the key stories from the two-day Misano test as WorldSBK prepares for the upcoming round.
The MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship might be between rounds at the moment, but that doesn’t mean the track action has stopped. Most of the grid have headed from Czechia to Italy for a two-day test at the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship at the iconic Italian venue, which was topped by Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati). Catch up on all the key stories from the two-day test.
FASTEST RIDERS
Bulega was the fastest of the riders, setting a 1’31.769s on Day 2 in the afternoon session to cement top spot, four tenths clear of teammate Iker Lecuona (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati), while the #11 also topped Wednesday’s running. His fastest time of the test was under the existing race lap record (1’32.687s) and just a tenth away from the pole lap record (1’31.618s). Lecuona finished in second place across both days of action with a 1’32.182s as he worked on setups on his Panigale V4R machine. The pair completed 109 and 163 laps across the test respectively. Yari Montella (Barni Spark Racing Team) was third, 0.513s down on Bulega, with Sam Lowes (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team) just 0.002s down on the #5. The top five was completed by Alberto Surra (Motocorsa Racing), who set a 1’32.399s to finish in P5, 0.630s down on Bulega’s time.
DIXON RETURNS FROM INJURY
Jake Dixon (Honda HRC) has been missing from WorldSBK action since the Official Test at Phillip Island as he recovered from the wrist fractures he sustained in a crash. The Misano test was the first time he was back on the CBR1000RR-R machine as his recovery stepped up a gear. He finished Day 1 in 17th place overall, the fastest Honda rider, with a 1’33.941s. He also racked up 50 laps across the day and added another 37 on Thursday. Across the whole test, Thai rider Somkiat Chantra (Honda HRC) was the fastest Honda rider in 17th place after setting a 1’33.345s, and he racked up 224 laps across the two days, the most of anybody. Test rider Jonathan Rea was also at Misano as he worked with the Honda HRC test team, finishing two tenths down on Dixon’s time.
BARNI DUCATI’S NEW COLLABORATION
The Barni Spark Racing Team announced on Wednesday of the test a new partnership with Suter Industries to further develop the double-sided Ducati swingarm, and that partnership made its debut on track on Day 1 of the Misano testing. Featuring only Montella (after teammate Alvaro Bautista’s surgery earlier this week, the #5 finished third on Day 1 with a 1’32.444s and repeated that position on Day 2 with a 1’32.282s as he completed 157 laps.
KAWASAKI’S PROGRESS SET TO CONTINUE
Garrett Gerloff (Kawasaki WorldSBK Team) has been in fine form in the last two rounds, and the Texan is now on a run of five consecutive top ten finishes, including a best result in 18 months when he finished P4 in Race 1 at Most. His eight top ten finishes this year already beat last year’s tally of six, and Kawasaki have been working hard to make sure that run continues. The Japanese manufacturer said ahead of the test they would have new components to try and would work to refine the setup. Gerloff finished fifth on Day 1 and was seventh after Friday’s action concluded, setting a 1’32.457s; he was the only WorldSBK rider not to improve his time on Day 2.
WORK CONTINUES AT YAMAHA
It’s been a tricky start to 2026 for Yamaha, but in recent rounds they’ve been closer to the top five. Andrea Locatelli (Pata Maxus Yamaha) appears to be getting back to his best while teammate Xavi Vierge couldn’t have adapted to the Yamaha R1 any quicker. Niccolo Canepa, Yamaha Motor Europe’s Road Racing Sporting Manager, stated ahead of the test that they would evaluate the package to make gains in the second half of the season. Remy Gardner (GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) finished as the fastest Yamaha across the two-day test in tenth place after posting a 1’32.561s.
VAN DER MARK AND SOOMER RIDE FOR BMW
With race riders Miguel Oliveira (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) and teammate Danilo Petrucci recovering from injury, BMW called upon Michael van der Mark and Hannes Soomer for the Misano test. The Dutchman led the German manufacturer’s charge throughout the test, claiming 16th on the combined timesheets with a 1’33.119s. Soomer was 20thwith a 1’34.000s and the pair completed 367 laps between them, with van der Mark completing 200 of those.
BIMOTA LOOK FOR IMPROVED SETTINGS
Both Alex Lowes and Axel Bassani were on track for the bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team squad at Misano, searching for improved settings on their KB998 Rimini as they look to return to the rostrum after missing out since the season-opening Australian Round. The #47 was the faster of the pair as he finished in sixth place with a 1’32.430s, with Alex Lowes two places and less than a tenth behind his teammate. The pair completed 172 and 160 laps respectively.
The top 10 from the Misano test (lap count in brackets), full results here:
Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) 1’31.769s (109)
Iker Lecuona (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) +0.413s (163)
Yari Montella (Barni Spark Racing Team) +0.513s (157)
Sam Lowes (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team) +0.515s (175)
Alberto Surra (Motocorsa Racing) +0.630s (118)
Axel Bassani (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team) +0.661s (172)
I’ve released a new video on my YouTube channel. In this latest video, I talk about building my dream race bike, A Ducati Panigale V4R. I talk about what it took to get the bike race worthy and what it is like to ride now that it is done. It was a bit of a nightmare, but I ended up with a bike I’m really happy with.
American Duo Max Toth (on the left) and Nolan Lamkin (on the right) set for King of the Baggers Debut at Road America. Photo courtesy Saddlemen.
American racers Max Toth (#27) and Nolan Lamkin (#21) will join Saddlemen Racing Development, on board Harley-Davidson Road Glides, for the upcoming Road America round of the MotoAmerica King of the Baggers championship May 29-31, 2026.
20-year-old Toth and 25-year-old Lamkin have never raced baggers before but are looking forward to the challenge.
Nolan Lamkin, the 2023 MotoAmerica Superbike Cup Champion, will fill in for Saddlemen’s Cory West, who will be in Mugello, Italy, competing in the first European round of the FIM Harley-Davidson Bagger World Cup.
Max Toth has been racing his entire life, including winning races in the MotoAmerica Junior Cup as well as numerous European championships. He’ll be competing on the bike normally ridden by Jake Lewis, as Lewis heads to Mugello to race in the Bagger World Cup that same week.
WorldSBK launches all-new website and app with VideoPass now available on mobile devices worldwide.
The MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship has unveiled a completely redesigned digital experience with the launch of a new-look official websiteand mobile app, bringing fans closer to the action than ever before.
A major new addition for 2026 is the expansion of the WorldSBK VideoPass service to mobile devices through the new official WorldSBK app, now available via the Apple App Store and Google Play Store in most territories worldwide.
For the first time, fans can enjoy live streaming of every session and every race directly through the app, ensuring uninterrupted access to the full WorldSBK experience wherever they are. From Free Practice to the final chequered flag across all 12 rounds of the season, the new platform delivers comprehensive live coverage directly to fans’ pockets.
Alongside live streaming, the app retains key fan-favourite features including Live Timing and Live Tracking, while also providing access to the latest news, video clips, highlights and behind-the-scenes content from across the paddock.
The redesigned official WorldSBK website complements the upgraded app experience with a cleaner, more modern interface and improved navigation. WorldSBK VideoPass subscribers will also benefit from a dedicated viewing environment featuring full race replays, complete session archives, documentaries and exclusive special features, allowing fans to relive classic moments and catch up on the latest action at any time.
The launch marks another step forward in WorldSBK’s digital offering, focused on delivering a more accessible, immersive and flexible experience for fans around the world.
Ella Dreher (10) at Daytona. Photo by Brian J Nelson.
Ella Dreher is a talented 16-year-old competing in the MotoAmerica Supersport class. On May 17th, during Race 2, she was involved in a serious accident that resulted in pelvic fractures and a fractured C3 vertebrae.
Ella has already undergone successful surgery, but these injuries will require a long and difficult recovery process. The medical expenses, rehabilitation, and physical therapy will place a significant burden on Ella and her family, and we want to help ensure she receives the best care and support possible throughout her recovery. Anyone who knows Ella knows the determination, strength, and passion she brings both on and off the track. She has already shown incredible resilience, and we know she’ll bring that same fighting spirit into her recovery journey.
Any support — whether through a donation or simply sharing this fundraiser — would mean the world to Ella and her family during this challenging time. Together, we can help give her the best possible chance to heal, recover, return to the sport she loves.
The following is from Ella Dreher: “Just wanted everyone to know where I am at after my crash at Barber. On Monday, I had surgery to repair two pelvic fractures. I also have a small fracture on my C3 vertebra and suffered a pretty decent concussion. The doctors at UAB Hospital here in Birmingham have assured me that, with proper care, this will all heal fully in time, and I am being released from the hospital today.
I want to thank Dr. Price and his MotoAmerica medical team for everything they do for us riders. We are so lucky to have you. I also need to thank all of my fans, friends, and family. The amount of people who have reached out the last couple of days is truly overwhelming. I appreciate you all more than you could ever know.”
Dunlop Launches the Next-Gen Geomax® MX54 for Intermediate Terrain Performance. Photo courtesy Dunlop
Rancho Cucamonga, CA – Dunlop Tires is proud to introduce the all-new Geomax MX54, the next evolution in intermediate to hard terrain motocross performance. Building on the proven foundation of the Geomax MX53 with updates from the Geomax MX34, the MX54 is engineered to deliver optimized performance across a broader range of track conditions, with a focus on consistency, control, and durability as terrain evolves from intermediate to hard-packed.
Designed for where most riders compete, the MX54 bridges the gap between soft-intermediate terrain and hard terrain stability. The result is a tire that performs at a high level across changing track conditions, maintaining predictable feel from morning moisture to late-day hard-pack.
At the core of the MX54 rear tire is a tread pattern derived directly from Dunlop’s Geomax Factory Spec tire, delivering enhanced drive grip, improved slide control, and increased traction under acceleration. This proven design allows riders to maximize forward drive while maintaining confidence in demanding conditions.
The MX54 front tire features an all-new tread pattern engineered to improve turn-in precision, cornering stability, and braking performance. By refining block placement and optimizing knob stiffness, Dunlop has created a front tire that offers more consistent feedback and improved line-holding ability, especially as tracks become slick and hard-packed.
Dunlop’s patented Progressive Cornering Block Technology Advanced is utilized to enhance flexibility and increase the number of biting edges. This results in improved grip, better compliance, and more predictable handling across a wide range of terrain conditions.
In addition to tread design advancements, the MX54 incorporates an updated compound and carcass construction to improve durability and maintain performance over longer motos. Enhanced wear resistance ensures that riders experience consistent performance throughout the life of the tire, even in abrasive track conditions.
The Geomax MX54 is a direct replacement for the MX53, offering riders a clear step forward in performance with expanded capability in harder terrain while retaining the versatility expected from an intermediate-hard terrain tire.
“The MX54 represents the next step in our motocross tire evolution,” said Chad Geer, Director of Motorcycle Marketing & Motorsports. “We’ve taken everything we learned from the success of the MX53 and applied it to a tire that delivers more consistency, more control, and more confidence for today’s riders and racing conditions.”
The Geomax MX54 lineup will be available through authorized Dunlop Motorcycle Tires dealers nationwide.
About Dunlop Tires:
Dunlop is the largest supplier of original equipment and replacement motorcycle tires in North America. For more information, visit www.DunlopMotorcycleTires.com. Follow @RideDunlop on Instagram, Facebook, and X for the latest Dunlop news. Use #RideDunlop and #RaceDunlop to share your Dunlop moments.
American Rossi Moor (92) starts his 2026 racing season at Catalunya this coming weekend.
Rossi Attila Moor will begin his 2026 Moto2 European Championship season in Barcelona this weekend.
The Hungarian-American rider will line up at the Circuit de Barcelona Catalunya on the May 22–24 weekend, as part of the FIM MotoJunior World Championship event.
The season opener will be an important professional challenge for Rossi. The Barcelona circuit is fast, technical, and physically demanding, where bike setup, track grip conditions, weather, and race pace all play a decisive role.
Rossi’s lap times at the official Jerez tests gave the team positive impressions, but test results should always be treated as a starting point, not a final benchmark. Every track is different, every condition is different, and a race weekend always brings new tasks for both the rider and the technical crew.
The Barcelona program begins on Friday with two free practice sessions, followed by Saturday’s practice and qualifying sessions. On Sunday, the Moto2 field will take part in two races, each consisting of 15 laps.
One of the key new elements for Rossi this season is that he is working with a highly trained technical staff who have been preparing the bike and the professional weekend structure with him from the very start of the season. The goal is to build a competitive base through continuous development and calm, professional work.
Rossi Attila Moor: “Jerez was a positive test for us, but Barcelona is a completely new weekend and a completely new challenge. In Moto2, every track is different, so from Friday onward we need to work step by step. Together with the technical team, we’re focused on preparing the most competitive bike possible. As always, I’ll give 110%, and then we’ll see what that brings by the end of the weekend.”
Rossi arrives in Barcelona motivated, focused, and ready to race.
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www.roadracingworld.com
November 10, 2026
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