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Suzuki Launches “Fast Friends Rewards” Program

Suzuki Motor USA, LLC has introduced the Fast Friends Rewards Program, a new initiative created to thank existing Suzuki owners and welcome new riders into the Suzuki family through an innovative referral program.
 

Fast Friends Rewards makes it easy and rewarding for Suzuki owners to share their passion for performance, adventure, and reliability. Existing Suzuki owners can earn a $100 Suzuki Bucks Rewards Voucher for referring a friend who purchases a qualifying new Suzuki vehicle, with that person receiving a $200 Suzuki Bucks Rewards Voucher after purchase.

The pilot program applies to a significant range of new Suzuki motorcycles and ATVs including the following models:

 
–    GSX-8R, GSX-8S, GSX-8T, GSX-8TT, and all V-STROM 800 models
–    KingQuad 400, KingQuad 500, and KingQuad 750 ATVs
 
 
Suzuki Bucks are redeemable vouchers that can be used toward the purchase of Genuine Suzuki parts, accessories, or service at authorized Suzuki dealerships. 
 

“It is our belief that Suzuki customers are among the most engaged and loyal motorcycle and ATV riders in the category and want to share their passion with fellow enthusiasts,” said Kerry Graeber Suzuki Senior Vice President, Sales & Marketing. “The Fast Friends program actually rewards them for what they tend to do on their own which is to introduce the Suzuki experience to their friends.”

 

The Fast Friends Rewards Program is live now for a limited time at participating dealers. Whether sharing their love of adventure on a Suzuki motorcycle or tackling tough terrain on a KingQuad ATV, Suzuki is making it easier than ever for Suzuki enthusiasts to ride together and be rewarded for it.

 

To learn more about the Fast Friends Rewards Program visit Suzukicycles.com

 
 

 

ABOUT SUZUKI: 

Suzuki Motor USA, LLC. (SMO) distributes Motorcycles, ATVs, Scooters, Automotive Parts, Accessories, and ECSTAR Oils & Chemicals via an extensive dealer network throughout 49 states. Suzuki Motor CorporaDon (SMC), based in Hamamatsu, Japan, is a diversified worldwide manufacturer of Motorcycles, ATVs, Scooters, Automobiles, Outboard Motors, and related products. Founded in 1909 and incorporated in 1920, SMC has business relaDons with 201 countries/regions. For more informaDon, visit www.suzuki.com.

ASBK: Waters & Jones Won at the Bend

Superstars Josh Waters and Mike Jones have again risen to the occasion as the 2025 mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship presented by Motul (ASBK) concluded at The Bend (SA) on Sunday, November 9.

After absorbing intense pressure from rookie revelation Jonathan Nahlous, newly minted SW-Motech Superbike champion Waters was victorious in race one on his McMartin Racing Ducati before Jones (Yamaha Racing Team) won the turf war in the season-ending battle.

The pair finished the day equal on points, but Jones was awarded the overall after his higher placing in race two. Nahlous (Omega Racing Team Honda) was third overall after his 2-2 scorecard.

“The race two victory definitely put a smile on my face,” said Jones.

“It’s been a tough weekend, but a special thanks to the Yamaha Racing Team for all its efforts not only at The Bend but all year long.

“I’m excited to be back with Yamaha in 2026 as we chase another ASBK championship.”

Between them, Waters and Jones won 15 of the 17 Superbike races in 2025, with Waters finishing the Superbike title on 381pts ahead of Jones on 331pts.

Anthony West (Addicted to Track Yamaha) was third in the championship on 303pts, which included the veteran’s first Superbike race win at Phillip Island.

 

  • SW-Motech Superbike race one

 

Josh Waters (1) and new lap record holder Cru Halliday (65) in race one. Photo by RbMotoLens

 

With the pressure meter dialled down and the passion meter dialled up, newly minted SW-Motech Superbike champion Waters powered to a start-to-finish victory. It was Waters’ 10th win of the season and his 43rd in Superbike.

Waters’ only hiccup was a slight mistake on lap six which allowed Nahlous and Jones to close back up on him, but the veteran was soon back into a steely rhythm to win by nearly half a second.

Nahlous was a brilliant second – his best rookie result – ahead of Jones, who ran wide at turn one on the last lap which scuppered his chances of putting extra pressure on his rival.

West was fourth from Cameron Dunker (MotoGO Yamaha), Glenn Allerton (Superbike Advocates Ducati), Troy Herfoss (Yamaha Racing Team) and Max Stauffer (Yamaha).

Broc Pearson (DesmoSport Ducati) and Cru Halliday (Stop and Seal Ducati) both went down, the latter shortly after setting a new lap record of 1:50.035.

 

asbk race 1

 

  • SW-Motech Superbike race two

 

The Bend top three: (L to R) Waters, Jones and Nahlous. Photo by RbMotoLens

 

It was Jones at his metronomic best, moving into the lead on lap three and then controlling proceedings from the front to win his fifth race of the season. Including his two podiums today, Jones now has eight top three finishes in the last 12 Superbike races at The Bend.

The race was held over a shortened nine laps after the first attempt was red-flagged due to an oil spill at turn 17, and in the restart Nahlous got the jump while Waters was well back after his worst start of the year.

Waters slowly began to move forward, but his advance would end at third place.

West, Pearson and Dunker completed the top six from a fast-starting Stauffer and Allerton, while a bitterly disappointed Halliday didn’t make the restart after a mechanical issue.

Dunker finished fourth in the championship on 246pts from Allerton (241pts) and rookie of the year Nahlous (239pts).

The five-round 2026 ASBK Championship commences at Phillip Island from February 20-22, before transitioning into a summer calendar in 2027.

 

asbk rce 2

Moto3 : World Championship Race Results From Portugal

Maximo Quiles won the FIM Moto3 World Championship race Sunday at Autódromo Internacional do Algarve, in Portugal. Using his Pirelli-shod CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team KTM, the Spaniard won the 19-lap race by 1.663 second.

Angel Piqueras was the runner-up on his Frinsa – MT Helmets – MSI KTM.

Taiyo Furusato was third, 2.886 seconds behind race winner Quiles, on his Honda Team Asia machine.

Joel Esteban took fourth on his Red Bull Tech3 KTM. 

Red Bull KTM Ajo’s Alvaro Carpe crossed the finish line fifth.

Jose Antonio Rueda leads the championship with 365 points, 94 ahead of Angel Piqueras who has 271 points. Maximo Quiles is third with 263 points.

 

Classification moto3

 

worldstanding moto3

MotoGP : World Championship Race Results From Portimao

Marco Bezzecchi won the MotoGP World Championship race Sunday at Autódromo Internacional do Algarve, in Portugal. Riding his Aprilia Racing RS-GP25 on Michelin control tires, the Italian won the 25-lap race by 2.583 seconds.

Alex Marquez was the runner-up on his BK8 Gresini Racing Ducati Desmosedici GP24.

Pedro Acosta placed third on his Red Bull KTM Factory RC16.

Marquez’s teammate, Fermin Aldeguer crossed the finish line fourth.

Acosta’s teammate, Brad Binder took fifth. 

Francesco Bagnaia crashed his Lenovo Team Ducati Desmosedici GP25 and didn’t finish the race (DNF). 

Marc Marquez leads the championship with 545 points, 100 ahead of Alex Marquez who has 445 points. Marco Bezzecchi is third with 323 points.

 

Classification motogp race

 

worldstanding motogp

 

More from a press release issued by Dorna: 

Bezzecchi perfect at Portimao with dominant victory. Not a wheel wrong or out of place, the #72 really was ‘Simply the Bez on Sunday afternoon’, pulling clear of a tense duel over P2.

It was perfection from start to finish from Marco Bezzecchi (Aprilia Racing) who led every one of the 25 laps at Portimao for the Portuguese GP. A vital victory saw him move comfortably clear in the race for third overall in the Championship, although he’ll need just a few points to secure it next week in Valencia. Behind the Italian on the track, Alex Marquez (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP) resisted a late surge in pace from Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) with the podium being reshuffled from Saturday’s Sprint.

 

LIGHTS OUT! Bezzecchi holds off Acosta

Getting an excellent start, Acosta was dynamite off the line but couldn’t overcome Bezzecchi, who got the holeshot from pole. Alex Marquez replicated his Sprint start to move up to third but there was drama behind. Franco Morbidelli (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team) was caught up in a bundle at Turn 5 but was OK, ending a weekend which had been a struggle. Onto Lap 2 and Marquez made his move to get P2 from Acosta and set off in pursuit of Bezzecchi. Elsewhere, a disaster for Sepang’s P3 finisher Joan Mir (Honda HRC Castrol) who retired with a technical issue at the end of Lap 2.

 

FIGHTS IN THE FIELD: Pecco in P4 until…

Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) held fourth ahead of Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP), as the 2021 World Champion was once again putting in a great performance. ‘El Diablo’ had his hands full with Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing), who in-turn was under attack from Indonesian GP winner Fermin Aldeguer (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP). The rookie made a bold move at Turn 5 on the South African with contact and taking some aero – as well as P5 – away from the #33. Aldeguer then passed Quartararo and then inherited fourth when Bagnaia crashed at Turn 10 on Lap 11. A fourth successive Sunday DNF for the #63, a huge dent into his third-place goals overall in the standings.

At the front, Bezzecchi was edging ever further away from Marquez behind and by Lap 15, had a 2.2s advantage over the #73. Acosta was a further 2.4s away but had a comfortable 6.4s margin over Aldeguer and Binder. The main battle heading into the closing stages was for sixth, as Quartararo continued his excellent defensive ride ahead of fellow countryman Johann Zarco (CASTROL Honda LCR) and an impressive Ai Ogura (Trackhouse MotoGP Team).

 

NEVER GIVING UP: Acosta rallies for late attack on Marquez

Whilst things had looked settled at the front, Acosta found second wind with just four laps to go, taking three quarters of a second out of Marquez up ahead of him as 2025’s runner-up struggled in the closing stages. With two to go, the gap was a second and whilst an uphill challenge, nothing is considered impossible for the #37 KTM. Further back in the pack and there was a late drop in pace for Zarco as Ogura got ahead of him for P7 whilst Fabio Di Giannantonio (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team) pinched eighth.

 

Marco Bezzecchi won the MotoGP race at Portimao. Photo courtesy Dorna

 

CHEQUERED FLAG! Bezzecchi brilliance

Onto the last lap and Marquez had responded, minimising the damage even if the gap continued to come down. An inspired ride from Acosta meant he came close but not close enough in a familiar story to yesterday but nobody could lay a glove on Bezzecchi. From lights to flag, the #72 made Portimao his own with a majestic victory, becoming the sixth different winner in as many Grands Prix. Marquez and Acosta rounded out the podium behind the Aprilia rider, who gave the Italian manufacturer a third victory in 2025, the first-time ever they’ve enjoyed three wins in a single season.

Aldeguer held on to clinch fourth place ahead of Binder, who took his third top six of the season ahead of Quartararo, who took his best Portuguese GP finish since 2022. Ogura’s P7 makes it his first back-to-back top ten finishes since Jerez and Le Mans earlier in the year. Di Giannantonio resisted Zarco’s fightback in the scrap for eighth whilst Pol Espargaro (Red Bull KTM Tech 3) was the third KTM in the top ten.

Moto2: World Championship Race Results From Portugal

Diogo Moreira won the FIM Moto2 World Championship race Sunday at Autódromo Internacional do Algarve, in Portugal. Riding his Italtrans Racing Team Kalex on Pirelli control tires, the Brazilian won the 21-lap race by just 0.090 second.

Collin Veijer was the runner-up on his Red Bull KTM Ajo Kalex.

David Alonso was a close third on his CFMOTO Inde Aspar Team Kalex.

Aron Canet finished fourth on his Fantic Racing Kalex and his teammate, Barry Baltus, took fifth. 

Manuel Gonzalez crossed the finish line 6th on his Liqui Moly Dynavolt IntactGP Kalex.

Diogo Moreira leads the championship with 281 points, 24 ahead of Manuel Gonzalez who has 257 points. Barry Baltus is third with 232 points.

 

Classification race moto2

 

worldstanding moto2

 

More from a press release issued by Dorna: 

Moreira clinches crucial victory as title race heads to Valencia. The Brazilian battles past Veijer to see his points advantage rise to 24 over sixth place Gonzalez ahead of a final round showdown. 

A Champion’s performance. The Moto2 title race will go down to the final round in Valencia next weekend, but Diogo Moreira (Italtrans Racing Team) took one giant leap towards etching his name on the trophy with a fantastic victory in Portimao. The points gap is 24 points in the Brazilian’s favour now after Manuel Gonzalez (Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP) finished P6, so the odds are firmly in Moreira’s favour heading to the season finale. Completing the podium were two rapid rookies, with Collin Veijer (Red Bull KTM Ajo) collecting his first Moto2 silverware in P2, as David Alonso (CFMOTO Inde Aspar Team) earned his third straight podium in P3.  

A victory or second place. To clinch the title, it was one of those two results Moreira needed from pole position. And from P1 on the grid, the Brazilian got a perfect launch and comfortably grabbed the holeshot ahead of Veijer, with Gonzalez P6 on the opening lap. Jake Dixon (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team) dropped to P3, with Barry Baltus (Fantic Racing), the rider third overall, had to sit up on the exit of Turn 1 and lost a lot of positions – the Belgian was down to P11.

At the start of Lap 3, the top six were locked together – and that included Moreira and Gonzalez, as well as Veijer, Dixon, Celestino Vietti (Beta Tools SpeedRS Team), and Alonso. And at the start of Lap 4, Veijer led for the first time on the run into Turn 1.

On the exit of Turn 5 on Lap 5, a warning for Gonzalez. A huge, out-of-the-seat moment saw the Spaniard lose ground, and then Aron Canet (Fantic Racing) forced his way through into Turn 8 to demote the #18 to P7, with Moreira still P2. Crucially now though, a one-second gap had opened up between the top four and fifth place Canet, as Baltus dragged himself onto the rear wheel of Gonzalez.

On Lap 8 of 21, P7 became P6 as Gonzalez made a lovely move stick on Vietti, as Canet passed Dixon at the start of Lap 9, and a lap later, Gonzalez picked off the #96 too to jump into P5. But it was Baltus who was the rider on the move. The Belgian passed Vietti, Dixon, and then Gonzalez at Turn 3 to carve his way into P5, but there was a good chunk of time to make up to teammate Canet and the podium fight.

With five laps to go, Gonzalez was still sat behind Baltus in P6, with Moreira now beginning to put some serious pressure on Veijer. Alonso was 0.8s behind Moreira in P3, with Canet 0.6s further back. At this stage, the points advantage heading to Valencia was 19 points in Moreira’s favour.

And then, with two and a half laps to go, Moreira pounced. Turn 11 was the place and it was a classy move up the inside of the Dutchman, and now, the top four were pretty much locked together. Now, the points gap was 24 points, as Moreira got his head down and tried to escape the rookie fight for P2 between Veijer and Alonso, with Canet also right there.

 

Moto2 podium with, from left to right Collin Veijer, Diogo Moreira and David Alonso. Photo courtesy Dorna

 

Last lap! Four riders in contention for victory, as Dixon suffered a last-lap crash out of P7. Could anyone stop Moreira from putting one hand and four fingers on the Moto2 World Championship trophy? The answer was no. What a win for the Brazilian. On the big occasion, Moreira stepped up and now, he heads to Valencia in about a strong a position as he could have hoped to have been in.

Congratulations to Veijer, that’s his first Moto2 podium, with Alonso making it two rookies on the rostrum in P3. Canet strung together a strong ride to P4, with teammate Baltus completing the top five. And with Dixon’s crash, the Fantic duo and British rider are now officially out of title contention – it’s now Moreira vs Gonzalez in Valencia. However, Fantic are now able to celebrate the Moto2 Teams’ title thanks to the efforts of Baltus and Canet. 

Gonzalez will be disappointed with his P6, but it’s a result that still keeps him in contention ahead of next weekend’s finale. One place behind the Spaniard finished his compatriot Daniel Holgado (CFMOTO Inde Aspar Team), and that result hands the #27 Moto2’s Rookie of the Year accolade.

So, onto Valencia we go. It’s simply a must-win for Gonzalez, while Moreira needs a top 14 finish to clinch the Moto2 crown before his MotoGP adventure begins. A tense weekend awaits at the Circuit Ricardo Tormo.

Moto2 results!

ASBK: Waters Secures Fifth Australian Superbike Title at The Bend

Josh Waters has started celebrations early at the final round of the 2025 mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship presented by Motul (ASBK) at The Bend (SA), wrapping up the Superbike title in Saturday qualifying.

Waters’ path of least resistance to winning an unprecedented fifth SW-Motech Superbike title was always going to come in the battle for grid positions, and the script went perfectly to plan for the McMartin Racing Ducati star.

Waters qualified in fifth, but with arch-rival Mike Jones (Yamaha Racing Team) unable to secure pole position Waters now takes a 50p lead into Sunday’s two 11-lap races.

Even if Jones wins both battles and Waters doesn’t score any points – extremely unlikely for such a well-drilled champion – Waters would still win the championship on a countback.

With the numbers falling his way, it was a super Saturday for Waters, who won his first Superbike title in 2009 followed by further successes in 2012, 2017 and 2024.

After three decades of Aussie Superbike brilliance, Waters still can’t fully comprehend what he has achieved.

“When I started road racing I used to stand outside Shawn Giles’ garage and think ‘Will I ever be like that’?, said Waters, referencing the former three-time Superbike champion (2000-2002).

“Now to win five titles against such a high level of competition means so much. This year has been really special. I’ve got such a great team and crew around me, and everyone at home is such a big support: my wife, my family, my training partners. It just means so much.”

Cru Halliday (Stop and Seal Ducati) will start from pole in the SW-Motech Superbike races, and will be joined on the front row by Jones and Jonathan Nahlous (Omega Racing Honda).

There was plenty of action across the other ASBK classes today, including Kawasaki Supersport where Archie McDonald will start from pole with two-time British Superbike champion and Stop and Seal Yamaha teammate Kyle Ryde alongside him.

Races also began in the Race and Road Supersport 300, ShopYamaha R3 Cup, BLU CRU Oceania Junior Cup and Superbike Masters classes on Saturday, with a dominant Beau Beaton crowned early in the latter after a faultless campaign.

 

  • SW-Motech Superbike

 

From left to right, Mike Jones, Cru Halliday and Jonathan Nahlous. Photo by RbMotoLens

 

The equation was simple for the SW-Motech Superbike battle to move into a live Sunday rubber: Jones had to secure his fourth pole position at The Bend.

He was seemingly on track for exactly just that until the last three minutes of qualifying when Halliday produced a searing 1:50.028 – under the current lap record and only just adrift of the best ever lap – to become the ultimate spoiler.

Jones didn’t have time to muster a counter-offensive, much to the delight of a jubilant Waters.

It’s Halliday’s fourth pole in Superbike, and his first since 2023 as he gets to grips with his new Ducati after a mid-year switch from Yamaha.

“It’s taken a little bit to get used to the Ducati after being on a Yamaha for years,” said Halliday.

“It’s been about changing habits and riding the Ducati a whole different way, but it’s finally paid off at a very good time.”

Meanwhile, Nahlous was a revelation in only his second ASBK meeting on the Honda, with the Sydneysider returning to a happy hunting ground after winning the Supersport title at The Bend in 2024.

Broc Pearson (DesmoSport Ducati), Waters and Cameron Dunker (MotoGO Yamaha) will line up on row two, followed by Troy Herfoss (Yamaha Racing Team), Anthony West (Addicted to Track Yamaha) and Max Staufffer (Yamaha).

Twenty-riders will line up in Sunday’s two races.

 

 

  • Kawasaki Supersport and Supersport Next Gen

 

Archie McDonald (69) at The Bend. Photo by RbMotoLens

 

McDonald’s sixth pole position in Kawasaki Supersport came without too much fuss, which included a new Supersport best lap of 1:54.271.

Ryde was next, followed by BCperformance Kawasaki duo Olly Simpson and Hayden Nelson, Will Nassif (Omega Yamaha), Jake Farnsworth (Yamaha) and Tom Edwards (TeamBWR Yamaha).

Championship leader Jack Mahaffy (Stop and Seal Yamaha) has left himself in the danger zone, starting from the third row of the grid as he defends a 23pt buffer over the in-form McDonald.

Tom Toparis (Stop and Seal Ducati) was the fastest Supersport Next Gen rider – and in fact the fastest on track by a wafer thin 0.001 seconds over McDonald.

There will be two nine-lap races on Sunday.

 

  • Race and Road Supersport 300/ShopYamaha R3 Cup

 

Hudson Thompson (41) at The Bend. Photo by RbMotoLens

 

Races got underway in both Race and Road Supersport 300 and the ShopYamaha R3 Cup, with Nikolas Lazos (Yamaha) and Hudson Thompson (Yamaha) the respective victors.

In Supersport 300, Lazos’ path to a maiden victory opened up after Riley Nauta (Champions Ride Days Kawasaki) crashed out while holding a healthy lead. Lazos grasped the golden opportunity and won by 3.5 seconds ahead of polesitter and 2025 champion Scott Ncholson (Kawasaki) followed by Thompson, Tyler King (Kawasaki), Matthew Ritter (Yamaha) and Jordy Simpson (Yamaha).

While Nicholson has an insurmountable lead, the battle for second in the championship is still a tight battle Jordy Simpson, Tara Morrison (Kawasaki), King and Mitch Simpson (Yamaha) with two races remaining. Jake Paige (Kawasaki) remains in second, but will be swallowed up by the pack as he isn’t competing at The Bend.

Thompson prevailed in a signature tight and tough R3 Cup scrum from Mitch Simpson, Lazos, Phoenix O’Brien and Jordy Simpson. Mitch Simpson holds a 15pt lead over Lazos.

 

 

  • BLU CRU Oceania Junior Cup

 

Calm before the storm: the start of BLU CRU Oceania Junior Cup race one. Photo by RbMotoLens

 

It was a nine-bike rolling scrum in BLU CRU Oceania Junior Cup race one, with the riders separated by less than a second after the five-lapper.

Xavier Curmi scored maximum points from Ghage Plowman, Connor Lewis, Hunter Charlett, Rossi McAdam, Chaz Williams, Thomas Cameron, Krue Knight and Charlie Nichols.

Lewis now leads Williams by 6pts, while McAdam, Curmi and Charlett will likewise battle it out until the very end for third place in the official Australian Junior Road Race Championship.

Two races remain on Sunday.

 

 

  • Superbike Masters

 

Beau Beaton is now only one win away from a season clean sweep in Superbike Masters. Photo by RbMotoLens

The same trifecta in both Superbike Masters races on Saturday, as Beau Beaton (Ducati), Ben Burke (Honda) and Michaael Berti Mendez (Ducati) dominated.
 
Beaton was on another level, setting a new a lap record and wrapping up the series with one race to spare.
 
In tomorrow’s final hitout he’ll be chasing the holy frail: an unbeaten campaign.

 

 

 

 

For more information on the 2025 mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship presented by Motul:

Sportbike Track Time: Register For Talladega & Jennings

Only two events remain on Sportbike Track Time’s 2025 schedule; don’t miss your chance to hit the track before the winter break!

 

  • TALLADEGA GP

Unwind after Thanksgiving by joining us for the last Little Tally event of the year!

Saturday, November 29

Novice group sold out

Sunday, November 30

Novice group sold out

 

  • JENNINGS GP

Our annual visit to Jennings, Florida is coming up quickly; this is a limited attendance event, so be sure to register today!

Saturday, December 13

Sunday, December 14

 

 

Calling all motorcycle coaches ! 

Our partners at Talladega Gran Prix raceway are hosting Open Motorcycle Coaching Days on

November 15 & November 16!

If you’re a motorcycle coach looking for space to work one-on-one with a student, this is an opportunity for you!

All groups are limited to 10 Coaches/10 Students each. Only the coach registers.

Click here to learn more and sign up today!

 

 

MEMBERSHIP SALE

Prepare for the 2026 season by grabbing your membership for a special price during our Black Friday sale, available Friday, November 28 through Monday, December 1!

Watch our upcoming newsletters for more details!

Keeway America Introduces Benda LFC700, Benelli Tornado 550 & Keeway Shiny 50

Keeway America today confirmed the U.S. introduction of three motorcycles: the Benda LFC700, the Benelli Tornado 550, and the Keeway Shiny 50. The company has already begun the process of bringing these models to the U.S. market, ensuring that dealers and riders will soon have access to these highly anticipated motorcycles.

The  Benda LFC700 and Benelli Tornado 550 are expected to begin arriving at U.S. dealerships in early2026, while the Keeway Shiny 50 is already available and shipping to dealers. Dealers interested in securing inventory or learning more about pre-order opportunities for these models are encouraged to contact Keeway America to plan for the 2026 riding season.

 

  • Benda LFC700 — Flagship Muscle Cruiser

As the flagship of Benda’s growing cruiser lineup, the LFC700 represents the brand’s bold engineering and design vision. Powered by an inline four-cylinder engine, the LFC700 delivers a thrilling combination of performance and refinement, supported by a single-sided swingarm, 310mm rear tire, Brembo brakes with ABS, and adjustable KYB suspension.

Following the successful introduction of the Napoleon Bob 500, Chinchilla 500, and Chinchilla 300, which have quickly gained popularity among U.S. riders since their debut earlier this year, the LFC700 now takes the Benda name to a new level combining muscle, precision, and unmistakable style.

Specifications:

  • Engine: Inline four-cylinder engine, full-color TFT display with multiple riding modes

  • Chassis & Suspension: High-performance KYB suspension, single-sided swingarm with 310mm rear tire, Brembo brakes with ABS

  • Features: Bold sport-cruiser styling, advanced electronics and ride customization

 

 

  • Benelli Tornado 550 — Dynamic Mid-Range Sport

 

Benelli Tornado 550. Photo courtesy Keeway America

 

The Benelli Tornado 550 marks a major breakthrough in Benelli’s evolution, expanding the brand’s reach into the highly competitive mid-range full-fairing sport segment. Featuring a 554cc parallel twin engine, Marzocchi suspension, and a full Brembo braking system, the Tornado 550 blends Italian design flair with performance-focused engineering.

Joining Benelli’s established lineup, anchored by the legendary TNT135, the classic Imperiale, and the best-selling TRK series, the Tornado 550 elevates Benelli’s sport DNA and reinforces its position as one of the most dynamic and respected motorcycle brands in its class.

 

Specifications:

  • Engine: 554cc parallel twin engine, large Wi-Fi and Bluetooth-enabled TFT display

  • Chassis & Suspension: Marzocchi front forks and matching rear mono-shock, full Brembo braking system: dual front calipers, single rear caliper, radial master cylinder

  • Features: Sculpted bodywork with daytime running lamps, integrated rear turn signals, sporty styling with premium componentry

 

 

  • Keeway Shiny 50 — Urban Commuter Scooter

 

Keeway Shiny 50. Photo courtesy Keeway America

 

Completing Keeway’s modern scooter lineup, the Shiny 50 fills the 50cc category with a practical, high-quality urban commuter designed for everyday riders. Powered by a 49.4cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine with automatic CVT transmission, it offers agility, fuel efficiency, and lightweight confidence.

The Shiny 50 now joins Keeway’s established scooter range, including the Versilia 150, Vieste 200, and Sixties 300i, creating a full lineup that reflects the brand’s focus on quality, reliability, and distinctive style in the evolving U.S. scooter market.

Specifications:

  • Engine: 49.4cc forced-air-cooled single-cylinder engine, automatic CVT transmission with V-belt drive

  • Chassis & Suspension: Telescopic front forks and rear mono-shock suspension, 120/70-12 tires on alloy wheels, front disc brake with 2-piston caliper, rear drum brake

  • Features: Full LED retro-modern lighting, built-in storage compartment, dual USB ports, lightweight 108kg curb weight, seat height: 790mm, fuel capacity: 5.8L, ground clearance: 115mm

 

 

About Keeway America: 

Keeway America is the exclusive U.S. distributor for Benelli, Keeway, and Benda motorcycles and scooters. Based in Frisco, Texas, the company serves a growing dealer network with a diverse portfolio ranging from practical scooters to versatile adventure and sport motorcycles, as well as bold and innovative cruisers.

Committed to delivering motorcycles that meet a wide range of riding styles and preferences, Keeway America provides dealers and riders with the support, expertise, and products they need to succeed — while continuing to build a strong foundation of quality, style, and reliability across the United States.

Honda Unveils V3R 900 ECompressor Prototype

Honda has unveiled the V3R 900 ECompressor Prototype, featuring a V3 engine with electronically controlled compressor, at EICMA 2025 in Milan, Italy.

The V3R 900 ECompressor Prototype is being developed as a model proposing new values through Honda’s unique, unprecedented technology, stemming from the development team’s goal to deliver compelling products exceeding customer expectations, aiming to realize the “Joy of free and fun mobility” outlined in Honda’s 2030 Vision.

Developed according to the concept “NonRail Roller Coaster,” the V3R 900 ECompressor Prototype combines the latest technology with Honda’s longaccumulated motorcycle development knowhow, aiming to possess dual characteristics “promised thrills” and “absolute peace of mind.”

The engine layout retains the watercooled 75degree V3 unit unveiled at last year’s EICMA show, but this year has a confirmed displacement of 900cc while pursuing a slim and compact form factor. As a worldfirst* for a motorcycle, it adopts an electronically controlled compressor, allowing precise control of engine boost, delivering highresponse torque from low revs. This delivers performance on par with a 1,200cc engine despite its 900cc displacement, while also achieving specifications that enhance environmental efficiency.

The body features asymmetrical side fairings, while the tank emblem debuts the new “Honda Flagship WING” design, which will be gradually introduced on toptier models starting next year.

The V3R 900 ECompressor Prototype aims to be a new milestone for Honda’s ongoing challenges, delivering unprecedented riding enjoyment, excitement, and the joy of ownership.

 

*According to Honda research

2026 FIM Ice Speedway World Championship Calendar Announced

The FIM is delighted to confirm that the 2026 FIM Ice Speedway World Championship will be made up of three events. As well as the return of the FIM Ice Speedway of Nations.

The single Qualifying round will take place at Örnsköldsvik in Sweden on Saturday 31 January, ahead of three deciding Finals. 

The first and second Finals will be held at Inzell in Germany over the weekend of 14-15 March, followed by the third Final at Heerenveen in the Netherlands on 11 April. 

All three Finals will count towards the overall championship positions. 

The FIM Ice Speedway of Nations will make its long-awaited return for the first time since Germany in 2020. The forty-third edition of the event will be held in Heerenveen, the Netherlands, on 12 April.

 

•    31 January – Qualifying round – Örnsköldsvik, Sweden – SVEMO


•    14-15 March – Finals 1&2 – Inzell, Germany – DMSB


•    11 April – Final 3 – Heerenveen, the Netherlands – KNMV


•    12 April – Nations – Heerenveen, the Netherlands – KNMV

 

 

Suzuki Launches “Fast Friends Rewards” Program

2026 GSX-8T. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA.
2026 GSX-8T. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA.
Suzuki Motor USA, LLC has introduced the Fast Friends Rewards Program, a new initiative created to thank existing Suzuki owners and welcome new riders into the Suzuki family through an innovative referral program.
 

Fast Friends Rewards makes it easy and rewarding for Suzuki owners to share their passion for performance, adventure, and reliability. Existing Suzuki owners can earn a $100 Suzuki Bucks Rewards Voucher for referring a friend who purchases a qualifying new Suzuki vehicle, with that person receiving a $200 Suzuki Bucks Rewards Voucher after purchase.

The pilot program applies to a significant range of new Suzuki motorcycles and ATVs including the following models:

 
–    GSX-8R, GSX-8S, GSX-8T, GSX-8TT, and all V-STROM 800 models
–    KingQuad 400, KingQuad 500, and KingQuad 750 ATVs
 
 
Suzuki Bucks are redeemable vouchers that can be used toward the purchase of Genuine Suzuki parts, accessories, or service at authorized Suzuki dealerships. 
 

“It is our belief that Suzuki customers are among the most engaged and loyal motorcycle and ATV riders in the category and want to share their passion with fellow enthusiasts,” said Kerry Graeber Suzuki Senior Vice President, Sales & Marketing. “The Fast Friends program actually rewards them for what they tend to do on their own which is to introduce the Suzuki experience to their friends.”

 

The Fast Friends Rewards Program is live now for a limited time at participating dealers. Whether sharing their love of adventure on a Suzuki motorcycle or tackling tough terrain on a KingQuad ATV, Suzuki is making it easier than ever for Suzuki enthusiasts to ride together and be rewarded for it.

 

To learn more about the Fast Friends Rewards Program visit Suzukicycles.com

 
 

 

ABOUT SUZUKI: 

Suzuki Motor USA, LLC. (SMO) distributes Motorcycles, ATVs, Scooters, Automotive Parts, Accessories, and ECSTAR Oils & Chemicals via an extensive dealer network throughout 49 states. Suzuki Motor CorporaDon (SMC), based in Hamamatsu, Japan, is a diversified worldwide manufacturer of Motorcycles, ATVs, Scooters, Automobiles, Outboard Motors, and related products. Founded in 1909 and incorporated in 1920, SMC has business relaDons with 201 countries/regions. For more informaDon, visit www.suzuki.com.

ASBK: Waters & Jones Won at the Bend

Jones (46) and Nahlous (20) dominated SW-Motech Superbike race two. Photo by RbMotoLens

Superstars Josh Waters and Mike Jones have again risen to the occasion as the 2025 mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship presented by Motul (ASBK) concluded at The Bend (SA) on Sunday, November 9.

After absorbing intense pressure from rookie revelation Jonathan Nahlous, newly minted SW-Motech Superbike champion Waters was victorious in race one on his McMartin Racing Ducati before Jones (Yamaha Racing Team) won the turf war in the season-ending battle.

The pair finished the day equal on points, but Jones was awarded the overall after his higher placing in race two. Nahlous (Omega Racing Team Honda) was third overall after his 2-2 scorecard.

“The race two victory definitely put a smile on my face,” said Jones.

“It’s been a tough weekend, but a special thanks to the Yamaha Racing Team for all its efforts not only at The Bend but all year long.

“I’m excited to be back with Yamaha in 2026 as we chase another ASBK championship.”

Between them, Waters and Jones won 15 of the 17 Superbike races in 2025, with Waters finishing the Superbike title on 381pts ahead of Jones on 331pts.

Anthony West (Addicted to Track Yamaha) was third in the championship on 303pts, which included the veteran’s first Superbike race win at Phillip Island.

 

  • SW-Motech Superbike race one

 

Josh Waters (1) and new lap record holder Cru Halliday (65) in race one. Photo by RbMotoLens

 

With the pressure meter dialled down and the passion meter dialled up, newly minted SW-Motech Superbike champion Waters powered to a start-to-finish victory. It was Waters’ 10th win of the season and his 43rd in Superbike.

Waters’ only hiccup was a slight mistake on lap six which allowed Nahlous and Jones to close back up on him, but the veteran was soon back into a steely rhythm to win by nearly half a second.

Nahlous was a brilliant second – his best rookie result – ahead of Jones, who ran wide at turn one on the last lap which scuppered his chances of putting extra pressure on his rival.

West was fourth from Cameron Dunker (MotoGO Yamaha), Glenn Allerton (Superbike Advocates Ducati), Troy Herfoss (Yamaha Racing Team) and Max Stauffer (Yamaha).

Broc Pearson (DesmoSport Ducati) and Cru Halliday (Stop and Seal Ducati) both went down, the latter shortly after setting a new lap record of 1:50.035.

 

asbk race 1

 

  • SW-Motech Superbike race two

 

The Bend top three: (L to R) Waters, Jones and Nahlous. Photo by RbMotoLens

 

It was Jones at his metronomic best, moving into the lead on lap three and then controlling proceedings from the front to win his fifth race of the season. Including his two podiums today, Jones now has eight top three finishes in the last 12 Superbike races at The Bend.

The race was held over a shortened nine laps after the first attempt was red-flagged due to an oil spill at turn 17, and in the restart Nahlous got the jump while Waters was well back after his worst start of the year.

Waters slowly began to move forward, but his advance would end at third place.

West, Pearson and Dunker completed the top six from a fast-starting Stauffer and Allerton, while a bitterly disappointed Halliday didn’t make the restart after a mechanical issue.

Dunker finished fourth in the championship on 246pts from Allerton (241pts) and rookie of the year Nahlous (239pts).

The five-round 2026 ASBK Championship commences at Phillip Island from February 20-22, before transitioning into a summer calendar in 2027.

 

asbk rce 2

Moto3 : World Championship Race Results From Portugal

Photo courtesy Autodromo do Algarve.
Photo courtesy Autodromo do Algarve.

Maximo Quiles won the FIM Moto3 World Championship race Sunday at Autódromo Internacional do Algarve, in Portugal. Using his Pirelli-shod CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team KTM, the Spaniard won the 19-lap race by 1.663 second.

Angel Piqueras was the runner-up on his Frinsa – MT Helmets – MSI KTM.

Taiyo Furusato was third, 2.886 seconds behind race winner Quiles, on his Honda Team Asia machine.

Joel Esteban took fourth on his Red Bull Tech3 KTM. 

Red Bull KTM Ajo’s Alvaro Carpe crossed the finish line fifth.

Jose Antonio Rueda leads the championship with 365 points, 94 ahead of Angel Piqueras who has 271 points. Maximo Quiles is third with 263 points.

 

Classification moto3

 

worldstanding moto3

MotoGP : World Championship Race Results From Portimao

MotoGP Race Start at Portimao. Photo courtesy Dorna.

Marco Bezzecchi won the MotoGP World Championship race Sunday at Autódromo Internacional do Algarve, in Portugal. Riding his Aprilia Racing RS-GP25 on Michelin control tires, the Italian won the 25-lap race by 2.583 seconds.

Alex Marquez was the runner-up on his BK8 Gresini Racing Ducati Desmosedici GP24.

Pedro Acosta placed third on his Red Bull KTM Factory RC16.

Marquez’s teammate, Fermin Aldeguer crossed the finish line fourth.

Acosta’s teammate, Brad Binder took fifth. 

Francesco Bagnaia crashed his Lenovo Team Ducati Desmosedici GP25 and didn’t finish the race (DNF). 

Marc Marquez leads the championship with 545 points, 100 ahead of Alex Marquez who has 445 points. Marco Bezzecchi is third with 323 points.

 

Classification motogp race

 

worldstanding motogp

 

More from a press release issued by Dorna: 

Bezzecchi perfect at Portimao with dominant victory. Not a wheel wrong or out of place, the #72 really was ‘Simply the Bez on Sunday afternoon’, pulling clear of a tense duel over P2.

It was perfection from start to finish from Marco Bezzecchi (Aprilia Racing) who led every one of the 25 laps at Portimao for the Portuguese GP. A vital victory saw him move comfortably clear in the race for third overall in the Championship, although he’ll need just a few points to secure it next week in Valencia. Behind the Italian on the track, Alex Marquez (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP) resisted a late surge in pace from Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) with the podium being reshuffled from Saturday’s Sprint.

 

LIGHTS OUT! Bezzecchi holds off Acosta

Getting an excellent start, Acosta was dynamite off the line but couldn’t overcome Bezzecchi, who got the holeshot from pole. Alex Marquez replicated his Sprint start to move up to third but there was drama behind. Franco Morbidelli (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team) was caught up in a bundle at Turn 5 but was OK, ending a weekend which had been a struggle. Onto Lap 2 and Marquez made his move to get P2 from Acosta and set off in pursuit of Bezzecchi. Elsewhere, a disaster for Sepang’s P3 finisher Joan Mir (Honda HRC Castrol) who retired with a technical issue at the end of Lap 2.

 

FIGHTS IN THE FIELD: Pecco in P4 until…

Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) held fourth ahead of Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP), as the 2021 World Champion was once again putting in a great performance. ‘El Diablo’ had his hands full with Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing), who in-turn was under attack from Indonesian GP winner Fermin Aldeguer (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP). The rookie made a bold move at Turn 5 on the South African with contact and taking some aero – as well as P5 – away from the #33. Aldeguer then passed Quartararo and then inherited fourth when Bagnaia crashed at Turn 10 on Lap 11. A fourth successive Sunday DNF for the #63, a huge dent into his third-place goals overall in the standings.

At the front, Bezzecchi was edging ever further away from Marquez behind and by Lap 15, had a 2.2s advantage over the #73. Acosta was a further 2.4s away but had a comfortable 6.4s margin over Aldeguer and Binder. The main battle heading into the closing stages was for sixth, as Quartararo continued his excellent defensive ride ahead of fellow countryman Johann Zarco (CASTROL Honda LCR) and an impressive Ai Ogura (Trackhouse MotoGP Team).

 

NEVER GIVING UP: Acosta rallies for late attack on Marquez

Whilst things had looked settled at the front, Acosta found second wind with just four laps to go, taking three quarters of a second out of Marquez up ahead of him as 2025’s runner-up struggled in the closing stages. With two to go, the gap was a second and whilst an uphill challenge, nothing is considered impossible for the #37 KTM. Further back in the pack and there was a late drop in pace for Zarco as Ogura got ahead of him for P7 whilst Fabio Di Giannantonio (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team) pinched eighth.

 

Marco Bezzecchi won the MotoGP race at Portimao. Photo courtesy Dorna

 

CHEQUERED FLAG! Bezzecchi brilliance

Onto the last lap and Marquez had responded, minimising the damage even if the gap continued to come down. An inspired ride from Acosta meant he came close but not close enough in a familiar story to yesterday but nobody could lay a glove on Bezzecchi. From lights to flag, the #72 made Portimao his own with a majestic victory, becoming the sixth different winner in as many Grands Prix. Marquez and Acosta rounded out the podium behind the Aprilia rider, who gave the Italian manufacturer a third victory in 2025, the first-time ever they’ve enjoyed three wins in a single season.

Aldeguer held on to clinch fourth place ahead of Binder, who took his third top six of the season ahead of Quartararo, who took his best Portuguese GP finish since 2022. Ogura’s P7 makes it his first back-to-back top ten finishes since Jerez and Le Mans earlier in the year. Di Giannantonio resisted Zarco’s fightback in the scrap for eighth whilst Pol Espargaro (Red Bull KTM Tech 3) was the third KTM in the top ten.

Moto2: World Championship Race Results From Portugal

Moto2 race start at Portimao. Photo courtesy Dorna

Diogo Moreira won the FIM Moto2 World Championship race Sunday at Autódromo Internacional do Algarve, in Portugal. Riding his Italtrans Racing Team Kalex on Pirelli control tires, the Brazilian won the 21-lap race by just 0.090 second.

Collin Veijer was the runner-up on his Red Bull KTM Ajo Kalex.

David Alonso was a close third on his CFMOTO Inde Aspar Team Kalex.

Aron Canet finished fourth on his Fantic Racing Kalex and his teammate, Barry Baltus, took fifth. 

Manuel Gonzalez crossed the finish line 6th on his Liqui Moly Dynavolt IntactGP Kalex.

Diogo Moreira leads the championship with 281 points, 24 ahead of Manuel Gonzalez who has 257 points. Barry Baltus is third with 232 points.

 

Classification race moto2

 

worldstanding moto2

 

More from a press release issued by Dorna: 

Moreira clinches crucial victory as title race heads to Valencia. The Brazilian battles past Veijer to see his points advantage rise to 24 over sixth place Gonzalez ahead of a final round showdown. 

A Champion’s performance. The Moto2 title race will go down to the final round in Valencia next weekend, but Diogo Moreira (Italtrans Racing Team) took one giant leap towards etching his name on the trophy with a fantastic victory in Portimao. The points gap is 24 points in the Brazilian’s favour now after Manuel Gonzalez (Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP) finished P6, so the odds are firmly in Moreira’s favour heading to the season finale. Completing the podium were two rapid rookies, with Collin Veijer (Red Bull KTM Ajo) collecting his first Moto2 silverware in P2, as David Alonso (CFMOTO Inde Aspar Team) earned his third straight podium in P3.  

A victory or second place. To clinch the title, it was one of those two results Moreira needed from pole position. And from P1 on the grid, the Brazilian got a perfect launch and comfortably grabbed the holeshot ahead of Veijer, with Gonzalez P6 on the opening lap. Jake Dixon (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team) dropped to P3, with Barry Baltus (Fantic Racing), the rider third overall, had to sit up on the exit of Turn 1 and lost a lot of positions – the Belgian was down to P11.

At the start of Lap 3, the top six were locked together – and that included Moreira and Gonzalez, as well as Veijer, Dixon, Celestino Vietti (Beta Tools SpeedRS Team), and Alonso. And at the start of Lap 4, Veijer led for the first time on the run into Turn 1.

On the exit of Turn 5 on Lap 5, a warning for Gonzalez. A huge, out-of-the-seat moment saw the Spaniard lose ground, and then Aron Canet (Fantic Racing) forced his way through into Turn 8 to demote the #18 to P7, with Moreira still P2. Crucially now though, a one-second gap had opened up between the top four and fifth place Canet, as Baltus dragged himself onto the rear wheel of Gonzalez.

On Lap 8 of 21, P7 became P6 as Gonzalez made a lovely move stick on Vietti, as Canet passed Dixon at the start of Lap 9, and a lap later, Gonzalez picked off the #96 too to jump into P5. But it was Baltus who was the rider on the move. The Belgian passed Vietti, Dixon, and then Gonzalez at Turn 3 to carve his way into P5, but there was a good chunk of time to make up to teammate Canet and the podium fight.

With five laps to go, Gonzalez was still sat behind Baltus in P6, with Moreira now beginning to put some serious pressure on Veijer. Alonso was 0.8s behind Moreira in P3, with Canet 0.6s further back. At this stage, the points advantage heading to Valencia was 19 points in Moreira’s favour.

And then, with two and a half laps to go, Moreira pounced. Turn 11 was the place and it was a classy move up the inside of the Dutchman, and now, the top four were pretty much locked together. Now, the points gap was 24 points, as Moreira got his head down and tried to escape the rookie fight for P2 between Veijer and Alonso, with Canet also right there.

 

Moto2 podium with, from left to right Collin Veijer, Diogo Moreira and David Alonso. Photo courtesy Dorna

 

Last lap! Four riders in contention for victory, as Dixon suffered a last-lap crash out of P7. Could anyone stop Moreira from putting one hand and four fingers on the Moto2 World Championship trophy? The answer was no. What a win for the Brazilian. On the big occasion, Moreira stepped up and now, he heads to Valencia in about a strong a position as he could have hoped to have been in.

Congratulations to Veijer, that’s his first Moto2 podium, with Alonso making it two rookies on the rostrum in P3. Canet strung together a strong ride to P4, with teammate Baltus completing the top five. And with Dixon’s crash, the Fantic duo and British rider are now officially out of title contention – it’s now Moreira vs Gonzalez in Valencia. However, Fantic are now able to celebrate the Moto2 Teams’ title thanks to the efforts of Baltus and Canet. 

Gonzalez will be disappointed with his P6, but it’s a result that still keeps him in contention ahead of next weekend’s finale. One place behind the Spaniard finished his compatriot Daniel Holgado (CFMOTO Inde Aspar Team), and that result hands the #27 Moto2’s Rookie of the Year accolade.

So, onto Valencia we go. It’s simply a must-win for Gonzalez, while Moreira needs a top 14 finish to clinch the Moto2 crown before his MotoGP adventure begins. A tense weekend awaits at the Circuit Ricardo Tormo.

Moto2 results!

ASBK: Waters Secures Fifth Australian Superbike Title at The Bend

SW-Motech Superbike title No.5 for a jubilant Josh Waters. Photo by RbMotoLens

Josh Waters has started celebrations early at the final round of the 2025 mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship presented by Motul (ASBK) at The Bend (SA), wrapping up the Superbike title in Saturday qualifying.

Waters’ path of least resistance to winning an unprecedented fifth SW-Motech Superbike title was always going to come in the battle for grid positions, and the script went perfectly to plan for the McMartin Racing Ducati star.

Waters qualified in fifth, but with arch-rival Mike Jones (Yamaha Racing Team) unable to secure pole position Waters now takes a 50p lead into Sunday’s two 11-lap races.

Even if Jones wins both battles and Waters doesn’t score any points – extremely unlikely for such a well-drilled champion – Waters would still win the championship on a countback.

With the numbers falling his way, it was a super Saturday for Waters, who won his first Superbike title in 2009 followed by further successes in 2012, 2017 and 2024.

After three decades of Aussie Superbike brilliance, Waters still can’t fully comprehend what he has achieved.

“When I started road racing I used to stand outside Shawn Giles’ garage and think ‘Will I ever be like that’?, said Waters, referencing the former three-time Superbike champion (2000-2002).

“Now to win five titles against such a high level of competition means so much. This year has been really special. I’ve got such a great team and crew around me, and everyone at home is such a big support: my wife, my family, my training partners. It just means so much.”

Cru Halliday (Stop and Seal Ducati) will start from pole in the SW-Motech Superbike races, and will be joined on the front row by Jones and Jonathan Nahlous (Omega Racing Honda).

There was plenty of action across the other ASBK classes today, including Kawasaki Supersport where Archie McDonald will start from pole with two-time British Superbike champion and Stop and Seal Yamaha teammate Kyle Ryde alongside him.

Races also began in the Race and Road Supersport 300, ShopYamaha R3 Cup, BLU CRU Oceania Junior Cup and Superbike Masters classes on Saturday, with a dominant Beau Beaton crowned early in the latter after a faultless campaign.

 

  • SW-Motech Superbike

 

From left to right, Mike Jones, Cru Halliday and Jonathan Nahlous. Photo by RbMotoLens

 

The equation was simple for the SW-Motech Superbike battle to move into a live Sunday rubber: Jones had to secure his fourth pole position at The Bend.

He was seemingly on track for exactly just that until the last three minutes of qualifying when Halliday produced a searing 1:50.028 – under the current lap record and only just adrift of the best ever lap – to become the ultimate spoiler.

Jones didn’t have time to muster a counter-offensive, much to the delight of a jubilant Waters.

It’s Halliday’s fourth pole in Superbike, and his first since 2023 as he gets to grips with his new Ducati after a mid-year switch from Yamaha.

“It’s taken a little bit to get used to the Ducati after being on a Yamaha for years,” said Halliday.

“It’s been about changing habits and riding the Ducati a whole different way, but it’s finally paid off at a very good time.”

Meanwhile, Nahlous was a revelation in only his second ASBK meeting on the Honda, with the Sydneysider returning to a happy hunting ground after winning the Supersport title at The Bend in 2024.

Broc Pearson (DesmoSport Ducati), Waters and Cameron Dunker (MotoGO Yamaha) will line up on row two, followed by Troy Herfoss (Yamaha Racing Team), Anthony West (Addicted to Track Yamaha) and Max Staufffer (Yamaha).

Twenty-riders will line up in Sunday’s two races.

 

 

  • Kawasaki Supersport and Supersport Next Gen

 

Archie McDonald (69) at The Bend. Photo by RbMotoLens

 

McDonald’s sixth pole position in Kawasaki Supersport came without too much fuss, which included a new Supersport best lap of 1:54.271.

Ryde was next, followed by BCperformance Kawasaki duo Olly Simpson and Hayden Nelson, Will Nassif (Omega Yamaha), Jake Farnsworth (Yamaha) and Tom Edwards (TeamBWR Yamaha).

Championship leader Jack Mahaffy (Stop and Seal Yamaha) has left himself in the danger zone, starting from the third row of the grid as he defends a 23pt buffer over the in-form McDonald.

Tom Toparis (Stop and Seal Ducati) was the fastest Supersport Next Gen rider – and in fact the fastest on track by a wafer thin 0.001 seconds over McDonald.

There will be two nine-lap races on Sunday.

 

  • Race and Road Supersport 300/ShopYamaha R3 Cup

 

Hudson Thompson (41) at The Bend. Photo by RbMotoLens

 

Races got underway in both Race and Road Supersport 300 and the ShopYamaha R3 Cup, with Nikolas Lazos (Yamaha) and Hudson Thompson (Yamaha) the respective victors.

In Supersport 300, Lazos’ path to a maiden victory opened up after Riley Nauta (Champions Ride Days Kawasaki) crashed out while holding a healthy lead. Lazos grasped the golden opportunity and won by 3.5 seconds ahead of polesitter and 2025 champion Scott Ncholson (Kawasaki) followed by Thompson, Tyler King (Kawasaki), Matthew Ritter (Yamaha) and Jordy Simpson (Yamaha).

While Nicholson has an insurmountable lead, the battle for second in the championship is still a tight battle Jordy Simpson, Tara Morrison (Kawasaki), King and Mitch Simpson (Yamaha) with two races remaining. Jake Paige (Kawasaki) remains in second, but will be swallowed up by the pack as he isn’t competing at The Bend.

Thompson prevailed in a signature tight and tough R3 Cup scrum from Mitch Simpson, Lazos, Phoenix O’Brien and Jordy Simpson. Mitch Simpson holds a 15pt lead over Lazos.

 

 

  • BLU CRU Oceania Junior Cup

 

Calm before the storm: the start of BLU CRU Oceania Junior Cup race one. Photo by RbMotoLens

 

It was a nine-bike rolling scrum in BLU CRU Oceania Junior Cup race one, with the riders separated by less than a second after the five-lapper.

Xavier Curmi scored maximum points from Ghage Plowman, Connor Lewis, Hunter Charlett, Rossi McAdam, Chaz Williams, Thomas Cameron, Krue Knight and Charlie Nichols.

Lewis now leads Williams by 6pts, while McAdam, Curmi and Charlett will likewise battle it out until the very end for third place in the official Australian Junior Road Race Championship.

Two races remain on Sunday.

 

 

  • Superbike Masters

 

Beau Beaton is now only one win away from a season clean sweep in Superbike Masters. Photo by RbMotoLens

The same trifecta in both Superbike Masters races on Saturday, as Beau Beaton (Ducati), Ben Burke (Honda) and Michaael Berti Mendez (Ducati) dominated.
 
Beaton was on another level, setting a new a lap record and wrapping up the series with one race to spare.
 
In tomorrow’s final hitout he’ll be chasing the holy frail: an unbeaten campaign.

 

 

 

 

For more information on the 2025 mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship presented by Motul:

Sportbike Track Time: Register For Talladega & Jennings

Two students riding during a Sportbike Track Time event. Photo by US129Photos

Only two events remain on Sportbike Track Time’s 2025 schedule; don’t miss your chance to hit the track before the winter break!

 

  • TALLADEGA GP

Unwind after Thanksgiving by joining us for the last Little Tally event of the year!

Saturday, November 29

Novice group sold out

Sunday, November 30

Novice group sold out

 

  • JENNINGS GP

Our annual visit to Jennings, Florida is coming up quickly; this is a limited attendance event, so be sure to register today!

Saturday, December 13

Sunday, December 14

 

 

Calling all motorcycle coaches ! 

Our partners at Talladega Gran Prix raceway are hosting Open Motorcycle Coaching Days on

November 15 & November 16!

If you’re a motorcycle coach looking for space to work one-on-one with a student, this is an opportunity for you!

All groups are limited to 10 Coaches/10 Students each. Only the coach registers.

Click here to learn more and sign up today!

 

 

MEMBERSHIP SALE

Prepare for the 2026 season by grabbing your membership for a special price during our Black Friday sale, available Friday, November 28 through Monday, December 1!

Watch our upcoming newsletters for more details!

Keeway America Introduces Benda LFC700, Benelli Tornado 550 & Keeway Shiny 50

Benda LFC700. Photo courtesy Keeway America

Keeway America today confirmed the U.S. introduction of three motorcycles: the Benda LFC700, the Benelli Tornado 550, and the Keeway Shiny 50. The company has already begun the process of bringing these models to the U.S. market, ensuring that dealers and riders will soon have access to these highly anticipated motorcycles.

The  Benda LFC700 and Benelli Tornado 550 are expected to begin arriving at U.S. dealerships in early2026, while the Keeway Shiny 50 is already available and shipping to dealers. Dealers interested in securing inventory or learning more about pre-order opportunities for these models are encouraged to contact Keeway America to plan for the 2026 riding season.

 

  • Benda LFC700 — Flagship Muscle Cruiser

As the flagship of Benda’s growing cruiser lineup, the LFC700 represents the brand’s bold engineering and design vision. Powered by an inline four-cylinder engine, the LFC700 delivers a thrilling combination of performance and refinement, supported by a single-sided swingarm, 310mm rear tire, Brembo brakes with ABS, and adjustable KYB suspension.

Following the successful introduction of the Napoleon Bob 500, Chinchilla 500, and Chinchilla 300, which have quickly gained popularity among U.S. riders since their debut earlier this year, the LFC700 now takes the Benda name to a new level combining muscle, precision, and unmistakable style.

Specifications:

  • Engine: Inline four-cylinder engine, full-color TFT display with multiple riding modes

  • Chassis & Suspension: High-performance KYB suspension, single-sided swingarm with 310mm rear tire, Brembo brakes with ABS

  • Features: Bold sport-cruiser styling, advanced electronics and ride customization

 

 

  • Benelli Tornado 550 — Dynamic Mid-Range Sport

 

Benelli Tornado 550. Photo courtesy Keeway America

 

The Benelli Tornado 550 marks a major breakthrough in Benelli’s evolution, expanding the brand’s reach into the highly competitive mid-range full-fairing sport segment. Featuring a 554cc parallel twin engine, Marzocchi suspension, and a full Brembo braking system, the Tornado 550 blends Italian design flair with performance-focused engineering.

Joining Benelli’s established lineup, anchored by the legendary TNT135, the classic Imperiale, and the best-selling TRK series, the Tornado 550 elevates Benelli’s sport DNA and reinforces its position as one of the most dynamic and respected motorcycle brands in its class.

 

Specifications:

  • Engine: 554cc parallel twin engine, large Wi-Fi and Bluetooth-enabled TFT display

  • Chassis & Suspension: Marzocchi front forks and matching rear mono-shock, full Brembo braking system: dual front calipers, single rear caliper, radial master cylinder

  • Features: Sculpted bodywork with daytime running lamps, integrated rear turn signals, sporty styling with premium componentry

 

 

  • Keeway Shiny 50 — Urban Commuter Scooter

 

Keeway Shiny 50. Photo courtesy Keeway America

 

Completing Keeway’s modern scooter lineup, the Shiny 50 fills the 50cc category with a practical, high-quality urban commuter designed for everyday riders. Powered by a 49.4cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine with automatic CVT transmission, it offers agility, fuel efficiency, and lightweight confidence.

The Shiny 50 now joins Keeway’s established scooter range, including the Versilia 150, Vieste 200, and Sixties 300i, creating a full lineup that reflects the brand’s focus on quality, reliability, and distinctive style in the evolving U.S. scooter market.

Specifications:

  • Engine: 49.4cc forced-air-cooled single-cylinder engine, automatic CVT transmission with V-belt drive

  • Chassis & Suspension: Telescopic front forks and rear mono-shock suspension, 120/70-12 tires on alloy wheels, front disc brake with 2-piston caliper, rear drum brake

  • Features: Full LED retro-modern lighting, built-in storage compartment, dual USB ports, lightweight 108kg curb weight, seat height: 790mm, fuel capacity: 5.8L, ground clearance: 115mm

 

 

About Keeway America: 

Keeway America is the exclusive U.S. distributor for Benelli, Keeway, and Benda motorcycles and scooters. Based in Frisco, Texas, the company serves a growing dealer network with a diverse portfolio ranging from practical scooters to versatile adventure and sport motorcycles, as well as bold and innovative cruisers.

Committed to delivering motorcycles that meet a wide range of riding styles and preferences, Keeway America provides dealers and riders with the support, expertise, and products they need to succeed — while continuing to build a strong foundation of quality, style, and reliability across the United States.

Honda Unveils V3R 900 ECompressor Prototype

V3R 900 ECompressor Prototype. Photo courtesy Honda

Honda has unveiled the V3R 900 ECompressor Prototype, featuring a V3 engine with electronically controlled compressor, at EICMA 2025 in Milan, Italy.

The V3R 900 ECompressor Prototype is being developed as a model proposing new values through Honda’s unique, unprecedented technology, stemming from the development team’s goal to deliver compelling products exceeding customer expectations, aiming to realize the “Joy of free and fun mobility” outlined in Honda’s 2030 Vision.

Developed according to the concept “NonRail Roller Coaster,” the V3R 900 ECompressor Prototype combines the latest technology with Honda’s longaccumulated motorcycle development knowhow, aiming to possess dual characteristics “promised thrills” and “absolute peace of mind.”

The engine layout retains the watercooled 75degree V3 unit unveiled at last year’s EICMA show, but this year has a confirmed displacement of 900cc while pursuing a slim and compact form factor. As a worldfirst* for a motorcycle, it adopts an electronically controlled compressor, allowing precise control of engine boost, delivering highresponse torque from low revs. This delivers performance on par with a 1,200cc engine despite its 900cc displacement, while also achieving specifications that enhance environmental efficiency.

The body features asymmetrical side fairings, while the tank emblem debuts the new “Honda Flagship WING” design, which will be gradually introduced on toptier models starting next year.

The V3R 900 ECompressor Prototype aims to be a new milestone for Honda’s ongoing challenges, delivering unprecedented riding enjoyment, excitement, and the joy of ownership.

 

*According to Honda research

2026 FIM Ice Speedway World Championship Calendar Announced

2025 FIM Ice Speedway World Championship in Inzell (Germany). Photo by Good-Shoot/courtesy FIM.

The FIM is delighted to confirm that the 2026 FIM Ice Speedway World Championship will be made up of three events. As well as the return of the FIM Ice Speedway of Nations.

The single Qualifying round will take place at Örnsköldsvik in Sweden on Saturday 31 January, ahead of three deciding Finals. 

The first and second Finals will be held at Inzell in Germany over the weekend of 14-15 March, followed by the third Final at Heerenveen in the Netherlands on 11 April. 

All three Finals will count towards the overall championship positions. 

The FIM Ice Speedway of Nations will make its long-awaited return for the first time since Germany in 2020. The forty-third edition of the event will be held in Heerenveen, the Netherlands, on 12 April.

 

•    31 January – Qualifying round – Örnsköldsvik, Sweden – SVEMO


•    14-15 March – Finals 1&2 – Inzell, Germany – DMSB


•    11 April – Final 3 – Heerenveen, the Netherlands – KNMV


•    12 April – Nations – Heerenveen, the Netherlands – KNMV

 

 

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