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CMRA Racing at Eagles Canyon Raceway This Weekend

CMRA at Eagles Canyon Raceway This Weekend

This coming weekend, October 25 – 27, the Central Motorcycle Roadracing Association (CMRA) hosts its eighth and final round of its 50th anniversary year and 2024 season. This will be the first ever clockwise race event at Eagles Canyon Raceway, Decatur, Texas.
The track is located 15 minutes north of Decatur off of FM 51.

Friday’s activities include the CMRA Racer Licensing School and an all-day racer practice. The full weekend’s event schedule can be found here: https://cmraracing.com/2024-schedule/
Registration and tech inspection open at 6:30 am for all activities. 50th Anniversary merchandise will also be on sale in the tech garage.

Saturday’s schedule starts at 9:00 am with Mini, Ultra-Lightweight, and Bike Bike Sprint races, followed by a 6-hour Championship endurance race. The day concludes with a trophy presentation followed by an End of the Year Party sponsored by Artisan’s Editions, BTech Turbines, Complete Vascular Care, Leather & Lace Racing Leather Repair, and The Law Offices of Omar Khawaja, PLLC..

Sunday’s schedule is going to be an action packed day with a full schedule of competitive CMRA Championship Sprint races. The green flag drops at 10:00 am for the first of 17 races planned for Sunday.

Gates open each day at 6:00 am, and we race rain or shine! Weekend tickets to the event are $25 on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and $20 on Sunday. Tickets are good for the entire weekend. Ride your street bike to the event and you’ll pay just
$5 for entry both Saturday and Sunday! Kids 12 and under are free. Weather and schedule permitting, a spectator lap of the track will be offered during the lunch break on Sunday.

Please note that PETS are ALLOWED at CMRA race events, and MUST BE ON A LEASH at all times!

On behalf of our racers, the CMRA would like to thank its 2024 Sponsors: BISON, Hart Photography, RaceWorX, RES, RideSmart Motorcycle School, Supporters, Racers, Staff, and Crew. Please remember to support the products and services of the companies that support you!
A full list of sponsor and vendor offerings can be found here: https://cmraracing.com/class-sponsors/

For more information about this event, please visit our website here: https://cmraracing.com or call the CMRA office at 817-570-9779.

CVMA Winter Series Sets Entry Record At Chuckwalla

The first round of the CVMA 2024/2025 Winter Series was a resounding success, with a record-breaking turnout and fierce competition on track. Over 200 racers participated, setting a new attendance record for an opening round.

Despite high winds on Friday, which added a challenging element to practice sessions, 22 New Racer School participants successfully completed their training and earned their racing licenses.
Saturday Qualifying

After the Friday winds subsided overnight, Saturday brought clear skies and ideal racing conditions. As the track warmed up, racers posted fast lap times, with some breaking records in their respective classes.

● Corey Alexander topped the open-class field with an impressive lap time of 1:45.725.

● Aldo Rovirosa led the middleweight class, clocking in at 1:46.666.

● Alfonso Califano was fastest in the lightweight category with a 1:52.449.

● Alex George set the pace in the ultra-lightweight class with a lap time of 1:56.334.

● Danny Spina led the American Twin class with a 1:59.110.

● Alexander Calloway dominated the CVMA Hooligan class, posting a 1:59.955 lap.

Saturday Highlights

On Saturday, CVMA replaced the traditional starting flag with a new starting light system. With many CVMA racers progressing to compete at the national level in MotoAmerica, the club is adopting a start sequence similar to those used in national and international racing organizations. Participants responded enthusiastically, praising the new system’s professional feel and seamless integration.
Several racers delivered standout performances on Saturday. Alfonso Califano dominated the lightweight category, securing three race wins. Jayson Uribe showcased his skills in the open class, claiming victory in two races. Alex George also had an impressive day, winning two races aboard his ultra-lightweight bike.

Sunday Shootouts

In the premier event, the Stock 1000 Shootout, Michael Gilbert got a strong start, grabbing the holeshot. However, Corey Alexander quickly overtook him for the lead in turn three on the first lap. By the end of the lap, Alexander was out front, followed by Gilbert in second and Jayson Uribe in third. On lap three, Uribe passed Gilbert and began closing the gap to Alexander. Deon Campbell also made a move, passing Gilbert for third on lap four.
At the halfway point, Uribe made his decisive move, taking the lead from Alexander. Alexander stayed close to Uribe for the rest of the race, mounting several challenges on the final lap. Despite the pressure, Uribe held on to take the win, with Alexander finishing second and Campbell rounding out the podium in third.

In Race 7, the Middleweight Shootout, Owen Williams (2) leads Alexander Enriquez (12), Brenden Ketelsen (144), Corey Alexander (1), and Jesus Villalobos (53). CaliPhotography/CVMA.

In the Middleweight Shootout, Owen Williams led the entire first lap with Aldo Rovirosa in second and Brenden Ketelsen in third. On the second lap, Ketelsen passed Rovirosa and then overtook Williams for the lead, holding it until the checkered flag. Starting from the back of the grid, Corey Alexander worked his way into third by the end of lap three, battling with Williams for second throughout the race. At the finish, it was Ketelsen taking the victory, with Alexander in second and Williams in third. Ketelsen set a new lap record for the class on his way to the win.

Full results for all the races can be found on Speedhive: https://speedhive.mylaps.com/events/2849861

Come out and join CVMA for the next round of the CVMA 24/25 Winter Series on November 15th – 17th.

CVMA offers two full days of racing every race weekend and also includes Saturday qualifying for grid position in all classes, amateur, and expert, as well as a wide variety of classes to choose from.

CVMA offers free reciprocity as a means of encouraging racers from other clubs to come out and compete. CVMA also offers a New Racers School for those starting in racing on the Friday before each race weekend. Log on to www.cvmaracing.com to sign up or for more information.

CVMA. Built for racers by racers and offering the best racing experience around!

CVMA would also like to thank the 2024/2025 Winter Series Sponsors: Support Moto Racing, Apex Assassins, Ryder Gear, CaliPhotography, Racers Edge/Dunlop, RoadRace City/Bridgestone, Del’s Flooring, The California Superbike School, Ride HMVC, First Team IT, Yamaha, CT Racing/Pirelli, Compact Octane Track Days
NRS Sponsors: Alpinestars, 6D Helmets, Five Gloves, and Racers Edge/Dunlop

R.I.P. Ben Fox: End of Life Celebration Service Scheduled In Colorado Springs

Ben Fox’s daughter Syd Fox posted on Facebook that she has organized a Celebration Of Life For Ben Fox, between 2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. on November 2nd, in the Colorado Springs area.

“We would like to invited everyone to an End of Life Celebration for Ben Fox,” she wrote. “There will be light snacks and a cash bar, as well as an opportunity for those interested to speak a few words.”

The location is Briarhurst Manor Ballroom, 404 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs, Colorado, 80829.

“Dress however you feel most comfortable,” she added. “Please message me with any questions.”

Before he became a crew chief in MotoAmerica Superbike, British Superbike, and World Superbike, Ben Fox was a successful racer, engine builder, and fabricator. He’s seen here circa 2001-2003. Photo courtesy Syd Fox.

WorldSBK: Bassani, Bimota Quickest On Day Two Of Testing At Jerez

Axel Bassani took the brand-new Kawasaki-powered Bimota KB998 to the quickest time on Day Two of the first postseason Superbike World Championship test.

On Pirelli spec tires, Bassani and BbKRT teammate Alex Lowes were 1-2, with their quickest laps coming right at the end of the day, when temperatures were cooler and the track was fully rubbered in after five days of racing and testing. Still, Bassani’s time was a 1:38.478, just three-tenths slower than factory Ducati rider Nicolo Bulega’s time attack lap of 1:38.142 set yesterday.

Garrett Gerloff (31). Photo by Michael Gougis.

American Garrett Gerloff was third with a 1:39.229 on his new Puccetti Racing Kawasaki ZX-10RR. Team owner Manuel Puccetti said the machine Gerloff was riding had a 2024 engine with “many new parts inside.”

Honda’s Xavi Vierge was fourth, ahead of two-time World Champion Alvaro Bautista, who was fifth after a shortened Day Two for the Ducati rider.

WorldSBK: More From 2025 Season Testing At Jerez

Day One of Superbike World Championship testing at Jerez ended with Nicolo Bulega topping the timesheets with a 1:38.142 early in the day. Aruba.it Ducati teammate Alvaro Bautista was second quickest, with American Garrett Gerloff third. World Champion Toprak Razgatlioglu was absent, as were Danilo Petrucci and Andrea Iannone. Bimota by KRT fielded test rider Florian Marino on a number of different machines, but contracted factory riders Alex Lowes and Axel Bassani did not take part in the day’s testing.

BMW had limited upgrades for the test and wrapped up early. Test riders Sylvain Guintoli and Marcus Reiterberger put in miles on new specification engines ahead of next week’s test at MotorLand Aragon. At least part of BMW’s remarkable turnaround in performance in 2024 has to be attributed to the work of the test team that the company put into place at the beginning of the season. Guintoli’s experience as a two-time World Champion (WorldSBK and FIM Endurance World Championship) had to be invaluable to the development of the M 1000 RR. Razgatlioglu and factory BMW teammate Michael van der Mark are expected to ride at Aragon.

Alvaro Bautista (19). Photo by Michael Gougis.

Bautista put in 85 laps, more than anyone, and suffered a small crash early in the day. Bautista’s best time was a 1:39.567. Ryan Vickers made his World Superbike debut on the Motocorsa satellite Ducati Panigale V4 R, finishing fifth with a 1:40.922.

Tommy Bridewell (46). Photo by Michael Gougis.

Factory HRC rider Iker Lecuona was absent due to a broken foot suffered during race weekend, so teammate Xavi Vierge led the Honda test efforts. Tarran Mackenzie, HRC test rider Tetsuta Nagashima and former British Superbike Champion Tommy Bridewell all put in laps on a variety of CBR 1000RR-R machines.  

Nicolo Bulega (11). Photo by Michael Gougis.

Bulega set his fast lap early on, and then set aside the Pirelli SCQ, the softest tire Pirelli had available, and focused on race pace.

Tetsuta Nagashima (49) competed as a wildcard over the weekend and then put in 46 testing laps on Monday in the southern Spanish heat. Photo by Michael Gougis.

Triumph Reveals All-New 2025 Tiger Sport 800

Triumph Motorcycles has revealed an all-new Tiger Sport 800, with distinctive Triumph triple character and performance, delivering an exciting, engaging and dynamic ride.

Designed to provide the perfect balance of exhilarating sports performance and long-distance touring capability, the Tiger Sport 800 offers thrilling engine performance, an engaging yet comfortable chassis, unrivalled versatility, and rider-focused technology, with a high specification and a premium finish.

The brand new high performance 800cc triple engine delivers 115 PS peak power at 10,750 rpm. More importantly, 90% of the torque is available throughout the mid-range, peaking at 84 Nm at 8,500 rpm, delivering a broad spread of torque so riders always feel an instant response.

With a dynamic and confidence-inspiring chassis, adjustable Showa suspension, radial brake callipers, and weighing in at just 214kg on the road, the Tiger Sport 800’s handling is agile and responsive. Its sculpted aerodynamic bodywork and standard fit wind deflectors provide enhanced wind protection and the roomy ergonomics for both rider and pillion, comfortable seats and integrated pillion grab handles, all combine to offer excellent comfort on extended rides.

Rider-focused technology ensures the Tiger Sport 800 delivers the optimum performance in any environment. Its three riding modes allow the rider to tailor the responsiveness of the bike to suit the conditions and integrate seamlessly with the ride by wire throttle and switchable traction control.

The addition of Triumph Shift Assist and cruise control offer respite on longer journeys, while Optimised Cornering ABS and Traction Control ensure optimum performance and control in all conditions. LED lights, multi-functional LCD and TFT instruments with turn-by-turn navigation and Bluetooth phone connectivity are included as standard to improve the rider experience.

Enabling each rider to tailor the Tiger Sport 800 to their own riding needs, there are over 40 dedicated accessories available, ranging from an Akrapovič slip on silencer with a titanium wrap and carbon fibre end cap, to a full suite of luggage, including panniers that fit seamlessly to the integrate mounts and a twin helmet top box. Customers will also benefit from a low cost of ownership; a result of the lowest service workshop time in the category, reasonably priced Genuine Triumph Parts and a class-leading 10,000 miles/16,000km service interval.

Triumph Motorcycles’ Chief Product Officer Steve Sargent said: “At the heart of the Tiger Sport 800 is a new three-cylinder engine which delivers the power and excitement that riders want, whether tackling the daily commute through the city streets or enjoying a weekend blast on a winding rural road.

“We know this customer is very discerning and is looking for a bike that is exciting to ride, but also delivers all the practical criteria that they need. That’s why we’ve developed a compelling package that includes smooth power delivery and a perfect balance of agility and stability, as well as an accessible seat height, comfortable upright riding position and integrated luggage options, which are essential to customers in this category.

“We wanted the rider will feel immediate control and precision with every corner, so technology like the ride-by wire throttle, Optimised Cornering ABS and traction control, alongside three riding modes, delivers the optimum performance. This is further enhanced by the Triumph Shift Assist and Cruise Control, ensuring the Tiger Sport 800 has everything it needs for a rewarding yet comfortable ride.”

ALL-NEW TRIPLE ENGINE
The Tiger Sport 800’s triple engine delivers 115 PS peak power and 84 Nm of torque, providing a rush of instant acceleration with smooth, linear power delivery, accompanied by a deep, distinctive roar from the stainless-steel exhaust.

There’s also a slick, six-speed gearbox with Triumph Shift Assist fitted as standard, ensuring every gear change is smooth, precise and fatigue-free, even on longer journeys. Giving the rider greater slow speed control, the Slip and Assist clutch gives an incredibly light and precise feel at the lever, particularly useful in congested city centres.

EFFORTLESS CORNERING AND AGILITY
Equipped with top specification adjustable suspension components, the Tiger Sport 800 has Showa 41mm upside down separate function cartridge forks with rebound and compression damping adjustment. These are complemented by a Showa Monoshock that provides rebound damping adjustment and a generous 150mm of wheel travel, plus a remote hydraulic preload adjuster that allows the ride to be easily optimised when carrying luggage and a pillion.

Triumph branded radial-mounted, 4-piston brake calipers and twin 310mm front discs, paired with a single piston sliding caliper and 255mm disc at the rear, ensure easy and progressive braking and exceptional stopping power, even when fully loaded with luggage and pillion. The lightweight cast aluminium wheels are fitted with Michelin’s Road 5 sports touring tyres, delivering excellent grip and inspiring confidence in all riding conditions.

Making every ride more enjoyable, the Tiger Sport 800 has a roomy, upright riding position, combined with a comfortable, ergonomically designed seat, with generous padding that supports both the rider and pillion. The pillion seat also features integrated grab handles for added passenger security. The accessible 835mm seat height and the slim stand-over width inspires confidence during low-speed manoeuvres and gives a reassuringly stable feel at a standstill. The easily-adjustable windscreen with single hand operation, and the integrated wind deflectors combine to enhance rider comfort at high speeds. The 18.6 litre fuel tank ensures this bike is built for weekend touring.

RIDER-FOCUSED TECHNOLOGY
The Tiger Sport 800 is packed with technology to help riders confidently get the most from their bike in all conditions, without compromising the thrill of the ride.

Three rider modes, Sport, Road, and Rain, are available at the push of a button. Compared to the ‘Road’ setting, ‘Sport’ mode unlocks an even more eager throttle response, enabling riders to more readily unleash the performance of the 800cc triple. In contrast, ‘Rain’ mode delivers a more secure feeling when riding in the wet, enabling earlier traction control intervention, together with a softer throttle response.

Optimised Cornering ABS and traction control bring even greater peace of mind in tricky conditions – so riders can focus on enjoying the ride. This advanced technology calculates the bike’s lean angle from a 6-axis inertial measurement unit (IMU) and automatically adjusts the level of intervention to deliver the optimum performance and control. For longer journeys, cruise control adds convenience and reduces fatigue.

A clean and compact multifunction display with LCD upper section above an integrated colour TFT screen, is easy to read at just a glance, and easy to use with its convenient switch cube. The My Triumph Connectivity System is fitted as standard, facilitating turn-by-turn navigation, phone and music information, all controlled via Bluetooth.

Its all-LED lighting system, featuring signature Daytime Running Lights (DRL), ensures excellent visibility while adding a distinctive and aggressive look that commands attention on any road.

ON THE ROAD
From heated grips to the Akrapovič slip on sliencer, the Tiger Sport 800 can be tailored for any adventure. There’s a range of luggage available, attaching seamlessly to the integrated pannier mounts, which have been developed alongside the bike to fit, work and complement its design perfectly.

With class-leading service intervals, lower workshop times than the competition and a global 2-year unlimited mileage warranty, which also covers Genuine Triumph Accessories, the Tiger Sport 800 provides a low cost of ownership.

Customers can choose from four eye-catching colours, including Sapphire Black, or the premium options; Graphite, Cosmic Yellow, and Caspian Blue, all with contrasting Sapphire Black elements. Bikes will be arriving in dealerships from March 2025.

Find out more at triumphmotorcycles.co.uk.

SPECIFICATION – TIGER SPORT 800

ENGINE AND TRANSMISSION

Type

Liquid-cooled, 3 cylinders, 12 valves, DOHC

Capacity

798 cc

Bore

78.0 mm

Stroke

55.7 mm

Compression

13.2:1

Maximum Power

115 PS / 113 bhp (84.6 kW) @ 10,750 rpm

Maximum Torque

84 Nm @ 8,500 rpm

Fuel System

Bosch Multipoint sequential electronic fuel injection with electronic throttle control. 3 rider modes (Rain, Road, Sport)

Exhaust

Stainless steel 3 into 1 header system with sided mounted stainless steel silencer

Final Drive

X ring chain

Clutch

Wet, multi-plate, slip & assist

Gearbox

6 speed, Triumph Shift Assist

 

CHASSIS

Frame

Tubular steel perimeter frame

Swingarm

Twin-sided, fabricated pressed steel

Front Wheel

Cast aluminium alloy, 5 spoke, 17 x 3.5 in

Rear Wheel

Cast aluminium alloy, 5 spoke, 17 x 5.5 in

Front Tyre

120/70 R 17

Rear Tyre

180/55 R 17

Front Suspension

Showa 41mm, upside-down separate function cartridge forks, adjustable compression and rebound damping, 150mm wheel travel

Rear Suspension

Showa monoshock RSU with adjustable rebound damping and remote hydraulic preload adjustment, 150mm wheel travel

Front Brakes

Twin Ø310mm floating discs, 4-piston radial calipers, OCABS

Rear Brakes

Single Ø255mm fixed disc, single piston sliding caliper, OCABS

Instruments

LCD Multifunction Instruments with integrated colour TFT screen

 

DIMENSIONS & WEIGHTS

Length

2073 mm

Width (Handlebars)

828 mm

Height Without Mirrors

1386 mm / 1303 mm (high / low screen position)

Seat Height

835 mm

Wheelbase

1422 mm

Rake

23.8 °

Trail

99 mm

Wet weight

214 kg

Fuel Tank Capacity

18.6 litres

 

SERVICE

Service Interval

10,000 miles (16,000 km) / 12 months (whichever comes first)

 

CONSUMPTION AND EMISSIONS (EU)

Fuel Consumption

4.7 litres / 100 km (60.1 mpg)

Emissions

109 g/km

EURO 5+

CO2 emissions and fuel consumption data are measured according to regulation 168/2013/EC. Figures for fuel consumption are derived from specific test conditions and are for comparative purposes only. They may not reflect real driving results.

WorldSBK: 2025 Season Testing Begins At Jerez (Updated)

The Bimota by KRT KB998 in the pit lane at Jerez. Photo by Michael Gougis.

The Bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team KB998 broke cover at the Superbike World Championship pre-2025 season test at Circuito de Jerez on Tuesday.

Powered by the same 998cc, inline four-cylinder engine found in the KRT ZX-10RR, the chassis, swingarm and aerodynamics are the creation of Bimota.

In a break with Superbike orthodoxy, the KB998 features a steel frame that is part trellis, part twin-spar. The swingarm differs significantly from that found on the ZX-10RR, and the front wings are among the more sophisticated units found in the Superbike paddock. They feature a single-span component closest to the fairing, with dual-span elements at their edges. The machine features Showa suspension on both ends and an Akrapovic exhaust.

The first machine rolled out was clearly a test mule with miles on it, as the footpeg protector plates were well-worn!

Close-up view of the front aerodynamic components of the BbKRT KB998. Photo by Michael Gougis.

Garrett Gerloff was one of the first in the garages on Tuesday morning, preparing to start testing the 2025 Kawasaki ZX-10RR he will race next year for Puccetti Racing. Gerloff will be the only rider on the grid on the ZX-10RR. 

Gerrett Gerloff (31). Photo by Michael Gougis.
Garrett Gerloff (31). Photo by Michael Gougis.

 

WorldSBK: More From The Prometeon Spanish Round In Jerez

The Prometeon Spanish Round of the Superbike World Championship provided a clearer picture of what to expect in the 2025 season. American Garrett Gerloff showed that given the right conditions, he has the speed to run at the front. He was quickest in Saturday practice, and no one tops a World Superbike session by accident. What remains to be seen is how much support Kawasaki will provide the Puccetti team he will ride for next year. This year’s ZX-10RR is quick and well developed, but the field will progress, and Kawasaki will have its attention split between Puccetti and its new bimota collaboration.

Nicolo Bulega (11). Photo by Michael Gougis.

The guard at the factory Ducati team had changed, with Nicolo Bulega thoroughly outperforming his two-time World Champion teammate Alvaro Bautista. Bulega may have had the team’s hopes for the title thrust upon him with Bautista’s struggles, but he definitely stepped up his game toward the end of the year. It was easy to forget that this was Bulega’s rookie year in World Superbike.

Alvaro Bautista (1). Photo by Michael Gougis.

Bautista and his Ducati Panigale V4 R never gelled, and although he won races, he was on the ground far too much for his and the team’s liking in 2024. He crashed three times over the weekend at Jerez, and by Sunday, the team was experimenting with setups in anticipation of next year. 2024 was not the title defense Bautista wanted. He will start 2025 on the back foot.

Toprak Razgatlioglu (54) and Nicolo Bulega (11). Note Razgatlioglu’s extreme riding style. His entire torso is moved from the centerline of the bike, foot dragging on the pavement, front wheel cocked and rear wheel in the air. Photo by Michael Gougis.

By Sunday, with the title sewn up, Toprak Razgatlioglu was fighting hard for race wins, but Bulega was very nearly his match. The pair were in a class of their own, and they ended Sunday with one win each on the day.

Andrea Iannone (29) and Michael van der Mark (60). Photo by Michael Gougis.
Danilo Petrucci (9). Photo by Michael Gougis.

MotoGP winners and expatriates Andrea Iannone and Danilo Petrucci each won races in 2024 on satellite Ducati machines, but there was no room for them on the official factory Ducati team. And a satellite Ducati was better than most of the non-Ducati factory bikes. BMW won only a single race with Razgatlioglu’s teammate Michael van der Mark, and Kawasaki’s Alex Lowes won two races. All of the other wins in 2024 went to Razgatlioglu or Ducati riders, and three satellite Ducati riders won races. With competitive alternatives to a Ducati few and far between, Petrucci and Iannone signed again to their existing teams – Petrucci with Barni, Iannone with GoEleven – for 2025. Each team expects better in 2025. Barni will expand to a two-rider effort with Yari Montella, and GoEleven said it would have a higher-spec machine for next season.

 

Ana Carrasco Crowned Inaugural FIM Women’s World Champion

Ana Carrasco has made history by becoming the first ever FIM Women’s Circuit Racing World Champion, achieving this remarkable milestone in Jerez. This victory marks a significant moment in motorsport history, as it underscores the growing recognition and support for female competitors in a traditionally male-dominated sport.

Carrasco’s career began in 2009 when she won the 125cc Championship in the Extremadura Championship. In 2011, she became the first female rider to score points in the 125cc CEV class, a feat she repeated the following year in the inaugural Moto3™ format of the same championship. Graduating to the Moto3™ World Championship in 2013, she made her mark by becoming the first woman to score points in the lightweight Grand Prix class, achieving a best result of 8th in Valencia.

After four years in the MotoGP™ paddock, Carrasco embraced a new challenge in 2017 by joining the WorldSSP300 series. This move proved transformative, as she made history in 2018 by becoming the first woman to win a motorcycle World Championship. Ana continued to excel, finishing third in WorldSSP300 in 2019 and racing in the class for two more years before returning to Moto3™ for the 2022 and 2023 seasons.

In the 2024 season, Ana faced fierce competition from main rival Maria Herrera, particularly during Race 2 at Portimao, where the last lap battle for the lead was intense. Their rivalry not only showcased their incredible talents but also captivated fans and added excitement to the Championship.

Out of the 11 races held so far this season, she has secured 2 pole position, 12 podium finishes and recorded 4 wins, all while consistently showcasing her speed with multiple fastest laps. Her impressive performance culminated in her historic championship victory.

Looking ahead, Carrasco’s plans for next season are still to be confirmed, but fans and enthusiasts eagerly anticipate what she will accomplish next.

Ana Carrasco | Evan Bros Racing Yamaha Team:

“I’m super happy, honestly. Really, happy because it’s been a difficult season. We had to manage a lot both on and off the track. I gave my best in every race, every weekend, to try to achieve this result. I couldn’t be happier right now. Being World Champion once is incredible, but twice is something else entirely—crazy, even. My team did a fantastic job all season. They pushed me a lot to achieve this, and for me, they are the best. I want to say thanks to them and to all the people around me because I came from a difficult season with injuries and bad results. At times, it was hard to keep believing, but I had many people around me helping me improve. This title is for all of them.

The championship was something really new for everyone, and we had to adapt. Everyone was a bit nervous at the start because it was such a new experience, but I think Dorna and the FIM did an amazing job. We had a really good championship, with a high level of competition and a lot of great races. I think the fans, especially those watching on TV, enjoyed it a lot. So for me, it was a successful season for everyone.”

The FIM Women’s Circuit Racing World Championship was established to promote female talent and provide a platform for women to compete at the highest level of motorcycle racing.

Carrasco’s achievement is a testament to the progress being made in inclusivity within motorsport and serves as an inspiration to future generations of female riders.

BbKRT Ready To Test New bimota KB998 At Jerez

Fresh from the recent announcement of the transition from the Kawasaki Racing Team to BbKRT, the new team are preparing to unveil their as yet unseen race machine and commence testing at the Jerez track in Southern Spain on 22 October.

Created in partnership with bimota, the brand new KB998 race machine proudly harnesses a Kawasaki engine within a bimota designed and constructed chassis. A joint collaboration as part of the much wider global development of the bimota brand, the excitement surrounding the unveiling of the machine and its first laps of the 4.428 Km Circuito de Jerez has been much anticipated among racing fans.

A core element of a new project that sees the new team in WorldSBK emerge with a fresh pit box decor and team clothing, the appearance of the new racing machine is contrasted by internal continuity in terms of both riders and support staff within the pit box and across the team, a benefit appreciated by Team Manager, Guim Roda.

“Of course there has been much work to do behind the scenes to get us to the eve of unveiling the new bike and testing on track in public for the very first time.

To have Alex Lowes and Axel Bassani onboard as riders – plus the associated pit crews and support staff – means we can concentrate on the core tasks at hand, testing our new KB998 racing machine and accumulating data across a testing schedule, inside the test limitation rules set by BWO and the FIM, reaching from tomorrow and across the Winter.

This is very new bike and will need our full commitment We are very enthusiastic to be part of this fascinating project and honoured to take responsibility for making the new bimota KB998 perform on top as soon as possible

We have updated all our social media accounts so we encourage fans to follow BbKRT and play their part in this exciting journey.”

CMRA Racing at Eagles Canyon Raceway This Weekend

CMRA racer Ryan Max Johnson (96) in action. Photo by David Gillen, dgillenphoto.com/courtesy CMRA.

CMRA at Eagles Canyon Raceway This Weekend

This coming weekend, October 25 – 27, the Central Motorcycle Roadracing Association (CMRA) hosts its eighth and final round of its 50th anniversary year and 2024 season. This will be the first ever clockwise race event at Eagles Canyon Raceway, Decatur, Texas.
The track is located 15 minutes north of Decatur off of FM 51.

Friday’s activities include the CMRA Racer Licensing School and an all-day racer practice. The full weekend’s event schedule can be found here: https://cmraracing.com/2024-schedule/
Registration and tech inspection open at 6:30 am for all activities. 50th Anniversary merchandise will also be on sale in the tech garage.

Saturday’s schedule starts at 9:00 am with Mini, Ultra-Lightweight, and Bike Bike Sprint races, followed by a 6-hour Championship endurance race. The day concludes with a trophy presentation followed by an End of the Year Party sponsored by Artisan’s Editions, BTech Turbines, Complete Vascular Care, Leather & Lace Racing Leather Repair, and The Law Offices of Omar Khawaja, PLLC..

Sunday’s schedule is going to be an action packed day with a full schedule of competitive CMRA Championship Sprint races. The green flag drops at 10:00 am for the first of 17 races planned for Sunday.

Gates open each day at 6:00 am, and we race rain or shine! Weekend tickets to the event are $25 on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and $20 on Sunday. Tickets are good for the entire weekend. Ride your street bike to the event and you’ll pay just
$5 for entry both Saturday and Sunday! Kids 12 and under are free. Weather and schedule permitting, a spectator lap of the track will be offered during the lunch break on Sunday.

Please note that PETS are ALLOWED at CMRA race events, and MUST BE ON A LEASH at all times!

On behalf of our racers, the CMRA would like to thank its 2024 Sponsors: BISON, Hart Photography, RaceWorX, RES, RideSmart Motorcycle School, Supporters, Racers, Staff, and Crew. Please remember to support the products and services of the companies that support you!
A full list of sponsor and vendor offerings can be found here: https://cmraracing.com/class-sponsors/

For more information about this event, please visit our website here: https://cmraracing.com or call the CMRA office at 817-570-9779.

CVMA Winter Series Sets Entry Record At Chuckwalla

In the CVMA Winter Series Race 10 Stock 1000 Shootout at Chuckwalla, Corey Alexander (1) leads Michael Gilbert (55), and Jayson Uribe (360). Photo by Caliphotography.com courtesy CVMA.

The first round of the CVMA 2024/2025 Winter Series was a resounding success, with a record-breaking turnout and fierce competition on track. Over 200 racers participated, setting a new attendance record for an opening round.

Despite high winds on Friday, which added a challenging element to practice sessions, 22 New Racer School participants successfully completed their training and earned their racing licenses.
Saturday Qualifying

After the Friday winds subsided overnight, Saturday brought clear skies and ideal racing conditions. As the track warmed up, racers posted fast lap times, with some breaking records in their respective classes.

● Corey Alexander topped the open-class field with an impressive lap time of 1:45.725.

● Aldo Rovirosa led the middleweight class, clocking in at 1:46.666.

● Alfonso Califano was fastest in the lightweight category with a 1:52.449.

● Alex George set the pace in the ultra-lightweight class with a lap time of 1:56.334.

● Danny Spina led the American Twin class with a 1:59.110.

● Alexander Calloway dominated the CVMA Hooligan class, posting a 1:59.955 lap.

Saturday Highlights

On Saturday, CVMA replaced the traditional starting flag with a new starting light system. With many CVMA racers progressing to compete at the national level in MotoAmerica, the club is adopting a start sequence similar to those used in national and international racing organizations. Participants responded enthusiastically, praising the new system’s professional feel and seamless integration.
Several racers delivered standout performances on Saturday. Alfonso Califano dominated the lightweight category, securing three race wins. Jayson Uribe showcased his skills in the open class, claiming victory in two races. Alex George also had an impressive day, winning two races aboard his ultra-lightweight bike.

Sunday Shootouts

In the premier event, the Stock 1000 Shootout, Michael Gilbert got a strong start, grabbing the holeshot. However, Corey Alexander quickly overtook him for the lead in turn three on the first lap. By the end of the lap, Alexander was out front, followed by Gilbert in second and Jayson Uribe in third. On lap three, Uribe passed Gilbert and began closing the gap to Alexander. Deon Campbell also made a move, passing Gilbert for third on lap four.
At the halfway point, Uribe made his decisive move, taking the lead from Alexander. Alexander stayed close to Uribe for the rest of the race, mounting several challenges on the final lap. Despite the pressure, Uribe held on to take the win, with Alexander finishing second and Campbell rounding out the podium in third.

In Race 7, the Middleweight Shootout, Owen Williams (2) leads Alexander Enriquez (12), Brenden Ketelsen (144), Corey Alexander (1), and Jesus Villalobos (53). CaliPhotography/CVMA.

In the Middleweight Shootout, Owen Williams led the entire first lap with Aldo Rovirosa in second and Brenden Ketelsen in third. On the second lap, Ketelsen passed Rovirosa and then overtook Williams for the lead, holding it until the checkered flag. Starting from the back of the grid, Corey Alexander worked his way into third by the end of lap three, battling with Williams for second throughout the race. At the finish, it was Ketelsen taking the victory, with Alexander in second and Williams in third. Ketelsen set a new lap record for the class on his way to the win.

Full results for all the races can be found on Speedhive: https://speedhive.mylaps.com/events/2849861

Come out and join CVMA for the next round of the CVMA 24/25 Winter Series on November 15th – 17th.

CVMA offers two full days of racing every race weekend and also includes Saturday qualifying for grid position in all classes, amateur, and expert, as well as a wide variety of classes to choose from.

CVMA offers free reciprocity as a means of encouraging racers from other clubs to come out and compete. CVMA also offers a New Racers School for those starting in racing on the Friday before each race weekend. Log on to www.cvmaracing.com to sign up or for more information.

CVMA. Built for racers by racers and offering the best racing experience around!

CVMA would also like to thank the 2024/2025 Winter Series Sponsors: Support Moto Racing, Apex Assassins, Ryder Gear, CaliPhotography, Racers Edge/Dunlop, RoadRace City/Bridgestone, Del’s Flooring, The California Superbike School, Ride HMVC, First Team IT, Yamaha, CT Racing/Pirelli, Compact Octane Track Days
NRS Sponsors: Alpinestars, 6D Helmets, Five Gloves, and Racers Edge/Dunlop

R.I.P. Ben Fox: End of Life Celebration Service Scheduled In Colorado Springs

Ben Fox (left) on the grid with MotoAmerica Superbike racer Brandon Paasch at Circuit Of The Americas. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
Ben Fox (left) on the grid with MotoAmerica Superbike racer Brandon Paasch at Circuit Of The Americas, 2024. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.

Ben Fox’s daughter Syd Fox posted on Facebook that she has organized a Celebration Of Life For Ben Fox, between 2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. on November 2nd, in the Colorado Springs area.

“We would like to invited everyone to an End of Life Celebration for Ben Fox,” she wrote. “There will be light snacks and a cash bar, as well as an opportunity for those interested to speak a few words.”

The location is Briarhurst Manor Ballroom, 404 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs, Colorado, 80829.

“Dress however you feel most comfortable,” she added. “Please message me with any questions.”

Before he became a crew chief in MotoAmerica Superbike, British Superbike, and World Superbike, Ben Fox was a successful racer, engine builder, and fabricator. He’s seen here circa 2001-2003. Photo courtesy Syd Fox.

WorldSBK: Bassani, Bimota Quickest On Day Two Of Testing At Jerez

Axel Bassani (47). Photo courtesy WorldSBK.

Axel Bassani took the brand-new Kawasaki-powered Bimota KB998 to the quickest time on Day Two of the first postseason Superbike World Championship test.

On Pirelli spec tires, Bassani and BbKRT teammate Alex Lowes were 1-2, with their quickest laps coming right at the end of the day, when temperatures were cooler and the track was fully rubbered in after five days of racing and testing. Still, Bassani’s time was a 1:38.478, just three-tenths slower than factory Ducati rider Nicolo Bulega’s time attack lap of 1:38.142 set yesterday.

Garrett Gerloff (31). Photo by Michael Gougis.

American Garrett Gerloff was third with a 1:39.229 on his new Puccetti Racing Kawasaki ZX-10RR. Team owner Manuel Puccetti said the machine Gerloff was riding had a 2024 engine with “many new parts inside.”

Honda’s Xavi Vierge was fourth, ahead of two-time World Champion Alvaro Bautista, who was fifth after a shortened Day Two for the Ducati rider.

WorldSBK: More From 2025 Season Testing At Jerez

Sylvain Guintoli. Photo by Michael Gougis.

Day One of Superbike World Championship testing at Jerez ended with Nicolo Bulega topping the timesheets with a 1:38.142 early in the day. Aruba.it Ducati teammate Alvaro Bautista was second quickest, with American Garrett Gerloff third. World Champion Toprak Razgatlioglu was absent, as were Danilo Petrucci and Andrea Iannone. Bimota by KRT fielded test rider Florian Marino on a number of different machines, but contracted factory riders Alex Lowes and Axel Bassani did not take part in the day’s testing.

BMW had limited upgrades for the test and wrapped up early. Test riders Sylvain Guintoli and Marcus Reiterberger put in miles on new specification engines ahead of next week’s test at MotorLand Aragon. At least part of BMW’s remarkable turnaround in performance in 2024 has to be attributed to the work of the test team that the company put into place at the beginning of the season. Guintoli’s experience as a two-time World Champion (WorldSBK and FIM Endurance World Championship) had to be invaluable to the development of the M 1000 RR. Razgatlioglu and factory BMW teammate Michael van der Mark are expected to ride at Aragon.

Alvaro Bautista (19). Photo by Michael Gougis.

Bautista put in 85 laps, more than anyone, and suffered a small crash early in the day. Bautista’s best time was a 1:39.567. Ryan Vickers made his World Superbike debut on the Motocorsa satellite Ducati Panigale V4 R, finishing fifth with a 1:40.922.

Tommy Bridewell (46). Photo by Michael Gougis.

Factory HRC rider Iker Lecuona was absent due to a broken foot suffered during race weekend, so teammate Xavi Vierge led the Honda test efforts. Tarran Mackenzie, HRC test rider Tetsuta Nagashima and former British Superbike Champion Tommy Bridewell all put in laps on a variety of CBR 1000RR-R machines.  

Nicolo Bulega (11). Photo by Michael Gougis.

Bulega set his fast lap early on, and then set aside the Pirelli SCQ, the softest tire Pirelli had available, and focused on race pace.

Tetsuta Nagashima (49) competed as a wildcard over the weekend and then put in 46 testing laps on Monday in the southern Spanish heat. Photo by Michael Gougis.

Triumph Reveals All-New 2025 Tiger Sport 800

A 2025 Triumph Tiger Sport 800. Photo courtesy Triumph.

Triumph Motorcycles has revealed an all-new Tiger Sport 800, with distinctive Triumph triple character and performance, delivering an exciting, engaging and dynamic ride.

Designed to provide the perfect balance of exhilarating sports performance and long-distance touring capability, the Tiger Sport 800 offers thrilling engine performance, an engaging yet comfortable chassis, unrivalled versatility, and rider-focused technology, with a high specification and a premium finish.

The brand new high performance 800cc triple engine delivers 115 PS peak power at 10,750 rpm. More importantly, 90% of the torque is available throughout the mid-range, peaking at 84 Nm at 8,500 rpm, delivering a broad spread of torque so riders always feel an instant response.

With a dynamic and confidence-inspiring chassis, adjustable Showa suspension, radial brake callipers, and weighing in at just 214kg on the road, the Tiger Sport 800’s handling is agile and responsive. Its sculpted aerodynamic bodywork and standard fit wind deflectors provide enhanced wind protection and the roomy ergonomics for both rider and pillion, comfortable seats and integrated pillion grab handles, all combine to offer excellent comfort on extended rides.

Rider-focused technology ensures the Tiger Sport 800 delivers the optimum performance in any environment. Its three riding modes allow the rider to tailor the responsiveness of the bike to suit the conditions and integrate seamlessly with the ride by wire throttle and switchable traction control.

The addition of Triumph Shift Assist and cruise control offer respite on longer journeys, while Optimised Cornering ABS and Traction Control ensure optimum performance and control in all conditions. LED lights, multi-functional LCD and TFT instruments with turn-by-turn navigation and Bluetooth phone connectivity are included as standard to improve the rider experience.

Enabling each rider to tailor the Tiger Sport 800 to their own riding needs, there are over 40 dedicated accessories available, ranging from an Akrapovič slip on silencer with a titanium wrap and carbon fibre end cap, to a full suite of luggage, including panniers that fit seamlessly to the integrate mounts and a twin helmet top box. Customers will also benefit from a low cost of ownership; a result of the lowest service workshop time in the category, reasonably priced Genuine Triumph Parts and a class-leading 10,000 miles/16,000km service interval.

Triumph Motorcycles’ Chief Product Officer Steve Sargent said: “At the heart of the Tiger Sport 800 is a new three-cylinder engine which delivers the power and excitement that riders want, whether tackling the daily commute through the city streets or enjoying a weekend blast on a winding rural road.

“We know this customer is very discerning and is looking for a bike that is exciting to ride, but also delivers all the practical criteria that they need. That’s why we’ve developed a compelling package that includes smooth power delivery and a perfect balance of agility and stability, as well as an accessible seat height, comfortable upright riding position and integrated luggage options, which are essential to customers in this category.

“We wanted the rider will feel immediate control and precision with every corner, so technology like the ride-by wire throttle, Optimised Cornering ABS and traction control, alongside three riding modes, delivers the optimum performance. This is further enhanced by the Triumph Shift Assist and Cruise Control, ensuring the Tiger Sport 800 has everything it needs for a rewarding yet comfortable ride.”

ALL-NEW TRIPLE ENGINE
The Tiger Sport 800’s triple engine delivers 115 PS peak power and 84 Nm of torque, providing a rush of instant acceleration with smooth, linear power delivery, accompanied by a deep, distinctive roar from the stainless-steel exhaust.

There’s also a slick, six-speed gearbox with Triumph Shift Assist fitted as standard, ensuring every gear change is smooth, precise and fatigue-free, even on longer journeys. Giving the rider greater slow speed control, the Slip and Assist clutch gives an incredibly light and precise feel at the lever, particularly useful in congested city centres.

EFFORTLESS CORNERING AND AGILITY
Equipped with top specification adjustable suspension components, the Tiger Sport 800 has Showa 41mm upside down separate function cartridge forks with rebound and compression damping adjustment. These are complemented by a Showa Monoshock that provides rebound damping adjustment and a generous 150mm of wheel travel, plus a remote hydraulic preload adjuster that allows the ride to be easily optimised when carrying luggage and a pillion.

Triumph branded radial-mounted, 4-piston brake calipers and twin 310mm front discs, paired with a single piston sliding caliper and 255mm disc at the rear, ensure easy and progressive braking and exceptional stopping power, even when fully loaded with luggage and pillion. The lightweight cast aluminium wheels are fitted with Michelin’s Road 5 sports touring tyres, delivering excellent grip and inspiring confidence in all riding conditions.

Making every ride more enjoyable, the Tiger Sport 800 has a roomy, upright riding position, combined with a comfortable, ergonomically designed seat, with generous padding that supports both the rider and pillion. The pillion seat also features integrated grab handles for added passenger security. The accessible 835mm seat height and the slim stand-over width inspires confidence during low-speed manoeuvres and gives a reassuringly stable feel at a standstill. The easily-adjustable windscreen with single hand operation, and the integrated wind deflectors combine to enhance rider comfort at high speeds. The 18.6 litre fuel tank ensures this bike is built for weekend touring.

RIDER-FOCUSED TECHNOLOGY
The Tiger Sport 800 is packed with technology to help riders confidently get the most from their bike in all conditions, without compromising the thrill of the ride.

Three rider modes, Sport, Road, and Rain, are available at the push of a button. Compared to the ‘Road’ setting, ‘Sport’ mode unlocks an even more eager throttle response, enabling riders to more readily unleash the performance of the 800cc triple. In contrast, ‘Rain’ mode delivers a more secure feeling when riding in the wet, enabling earlier traction control intervention, together with a softer throttle response.

Optimised Cornering ABS and traction control bring even greater peace of mind in tricky conditions – so riders can focus on enjoying the ride. This advanced technology calculates the bike’s lean angle from a 6-axis inertial measurement unit (IMU) and automatically adjusts the level of intervention to deliver the optimum performance and control. For longer journeys, cruise control adds convenience and reduces fatigue.

A clean and compact multifunction display with LCD upper section above an integrated colour TFT screen, is easy to read at just a glance, and easy to use with its convenient switch cube. The My Triumph Connectivity System is fitted as standard, facilitating turn-by-turn navigation, phone and music information, all controlled via Bluetooth.

Its all-LED lighting system, featuring signature Daytime Running Lights (DRL), ensures excellent visibility while adding a distinctive and aggressive look that commands attention on any road.

ON THE ROAD
From heated grips to the Akrapovič slip on sliencer, the Tiger Sport 800 can be tailored for any adventure. There’s a range of luggage available, attaching seamlessly to the integrated pannier mounts, which have been developed alongside the bike to fit, work and complement its design perfectly.

With class-leading service intervals, lower workshop times than the competition and a global 2-year unlimited mileage warranty, which also covers Genuine Triumph Accessories, the Tiger Sport 800 provides a low cost of ownership.

Customers can choose from four eye-catching colours, including Sapphire Black, or the premium options; Graphite, Cosmic Yellow, and Caspian Blue, all with contrasting Sapphire Black elements. Bikes will be arriving in dealerships from March 2025.

Find out more at triumphmotorcycles.co.uk.

SPECIFICATION – TIGER SPORT 800

ENGINE AND TRANSMISSION

Type

Liquid-cooled, 3 cylinders, 12 valves, DOHC

Capacity

798 cc

Bore

78.0 mm

Stroke

55.7 mm

Compression

13.2:1

Maximum Power

115 PS / 113 bhp (84.6 kW) @ 10,750 rpm

Maximum Torque

84 Nm @ 8,500 rpm

Fuel System

Bosch Multipoint sequential electronic fuel injection with electronic throttle control. 3 rider modes (Rain, Road, Sport)

Exhaust

Stainless steel 3 into 1 header system with sided mounted stainless steel silencer

Final Drive

X ring chain

Clutch

Wet, multi-plate, slip & assist

Gearbox

6 speed, Triumph Shift Assist

 

CHASSIS

Frame

Tubular steel perimeter frame

Swingarm

Twin-sided, fabricated pressed steel

Front Wheel

Cast aluminium alloy, 5 spoke, 17 x 3.5 in

Rear Wheel

Cast aluminium alloy, 5 spoke, 17 x 5.5 in

Front Tyre

120/70 R 17

Rear Tyre

180/55 R 17

Front Suspension

Showa 41mm, upside-down separate function cartridge forks, adjustable compression and rebound damping, 150mm wheel travel

Rear Suspension

Showa monoshock RSU with adjustable rebound damping and remote hydraulic preload adjustment, 150mm wheel travel

Front Brakes

Twin Ø310mm floating discs, 4-piston radial calipers, OCABS

Rear Brakes

Single Ø255mm fixed disc, single piston sliding caliper, OCABS

Instruments

LCD Multifunction Instruments with integrated colour TFT screen

 

DIMENSIONS & WEIGHTS

Length

2073 mm

Width (Handlebars)

828 mm

Height Without Mirrors

1386 mm / 1303 mm (high / low screen position)

Seat Height

835 mm

Wheelbase

1422 mm

Rake

23.8 °

Trail

99 mm

Wet weight

214 kg

Fuel Tank Capacity

18.6 litres

 

SERVICE

Service Interval

10,000 miles (16,000 km) / 12 months (whichever comes first)

 

CONSUMPTION AND EMISSIONS (EU)

Fuel Consumption

4.7 litres / 100 km (60.1 mpg)

Emissions

109 g/km

EURO 5+

CO2 emissions and fuel consumption data are measured according to regulation 168/2013/EC. Figures for fuel consumption are derived from specific test conditions and are for comparative purposes only. They may not reflect real driving results.

WorldSBK: 2025 Season Testing Begins At Jerez (Updated)

Florian Marino on the BbKRT KB998 in Jerez. Photo by Michael Gougis.
The Bimota by KRT KB998 in the pit lane at Jerez. Photo by Michael Gougis.

The Bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team KB998 broke cover at the Superbike World Championship pre-2025 season test at Circuito de Jerez on Tuesday.

Powered by the same 998cc, inline four-cylinder engine found in the KRT ZX-10RR, the chassis, swingarm and aerodynamics are the creation of Bimota.

In a break with Superbike orthodoxy, the KB998 features a steel frame that is part trellis, part twin-spar. The swingarm differs significantly from that found on the ZX-10RR, and the front wings are among the more sophisticated units found in the Superbike paddock. They feature a single-span component closest to the fairing, with dual-span elements at their edges. The machine features Showa suspension on both ends and an Akrapovic exhaust.

The first machine rolled out was clearly a test mule with miles on it, as the footpeg protector plates were well-worn!

Close-up view of the front aerodynamic components of the BbKRT KB998. Photo by Michael Gougis.

Garrett Gerloff was one of the first in the garages on Tuesday morning, preparing to start testing the 2025 Kawasaki ZX-10RR he will race next year for Puccetti Racing. Gerloff will be the only rider on the grid on the ZX-10RR. 

Gerrett Gerloff (31). Photo by Michael Gougis.
Garrett Gerloff (31). Photo by Michael Gougis.

 

WorldSBK: More From The Prometeon Spanish Round In Jerez

Garrett Gerloff (31). Photo by Michael Gougis.

The Prometeon Spanish Round of the Superbike World Championship provided a clearer picture of what to expect in the 2025 season. American Garrett Gerloff showed that given the right conditions, he has the speed to run at the front. He was quickest in Saturday practice, and no one tops a World Superbike session by accident. What remains to be seen is how much support Kawasaki will provide the Puccetti team he will ride for next year. This year’s ZX-10RR is quick and well developed, but the field will progress, and Kawasaki will have its attention split between Puccetti and its new bimota collaboration.

Nicolo Bulega (11). Photo by Michael Gougis.

The guard at the factory Ducati team had changed, with Nicolo Bulega thoroughly outperforming his two-time World Champion teammate Alvaro Bautista. Bulega may have had the team’s hopes for the title thrust upon him with Bautista’s struggles, but he definitely stepped up his game toward the end of the year. It was easy to forget that this was Bulega’s rookie year in World Superbike.

Alvaro Bautista (1). Photo by Michael Gougis.

Bautista and his Ducati Panigale V4 R never gelled, and although he won races, he was on the ground far too much for his and the team’s liking in 2024. He crashed three times over the weekend at Jerez, and by Sunday, the team was experimenting with setups in anticipation of next year. 2024 was not the title defense Bautista wanted. He will start 2025 on the back foot.

Toprak Razgatlioglu (54) and Nicolo Bulega (11). Note Razgatlioglu’s extreme riding style. His entire torso is moved from the centerline of the bike, foot dragging on the pavement, front wheel cocked and rear wheel in the air. Photo by Michael Gougis.

By Sunday, with the title sewn up, Toprak Razgatlioglu was fighting hard for race wins, but Bulega was very nearly his match. The pair were in a class of their own, and they ended Sunday with one win each on the day.

Andrea Iannone (29) and Michael van der Mark (60). Photo by Michael Gougis.
Danilo Petrucci (9). Photo by Michael Gougis.

MotoGP winners and expatriates Andrea Iannone and Danilo Petrucci each won races in 2024 on satellite Ducati machines, but there was no room for them on the official factory Ducati team. And a satellite Ducati was better than most of the non-Ducati factory bikes. BMW won only a single race with Razgatlioglu’s teammate Michael van der Mark, and Kawasaki’s Alex Lowes won two races. All of the other wins in 2024 went to Razgatlioglu or Ducati riders, and three satellite Ducati riders won races. With competitive alternatives to a Ducati few and far between, Petrucci and Iannone signed again to their existing teams – Petrucci with Barni, Iannone with GoEleven – for 2025. Each team expects better in 2025. Barni will expand to a two-rider effort with Yari Montella, and GoEleven said it would have a higher-spec machine for next season.

 

Ana Carrasco Crowned Inaugural FIM Women’s World Champion

2024 World Women's Circuit Racing Champion Ana Carrasco. Photo courtesy WorldSBK.

Ana Carrasco has made history by becoming the first ever FIM Women’s Circuit Racing World Champion, achieving this remarkable milestone in Jerez. This victory marks a significant moment in motorsport history, as it underscores the growing recognition and support for female competitors in a traditionally male-dominated sport.

Carrasco’s career began in 2009 when she won the 125cc Championship in the Extremadura Championship. In 2011, she became the first female rider to score points in the 125cc CEV class, a feat she repeated the following year in the inaugural Moto3™ format of the same championship. Graduating to the Moto3™ World Championship in 2013, she made her mark by becoming the first woman to score points in the lightweight Grand Prix class, achieving a best result of 8th in Valencia.

After four years in the MotoGP™ paddock, Carrasco embraced a new challenge in 2017 by joining the WorldSSP300 series. This move proved transformative, as she made history in 2018 by becoming the first woman to win a motorcycle World Championship. Ana continued to excel, finishing third in WorldSSP300 in 2019 and racing in the class for two more years before returning to Moto3™ for the 2022 and 2023 seasons.

In the 2024 season, Ana faced fierce competition from main rival Maria Herrera, particularly during Race 2 at Portimao, where the last lap battle for the lead was intense. Their rivalry not only showcased their incredible talents but also captivated fans and added excitement to the Championship.

Out of the 11 races held so far this season, she has secured 2 pole position, 12 podium finishes and recorded 4 wins, all while consistently showcasing her speed with multiple fastest laps. Her impressive performance culminated in her historic championship victory.

Looking ahead, Carrasco’s plans for next season are still to be confirmed, but fans and enthusiasts eagerly anticipate what she will accomplish next.

Ana Carrasco | Evan Bros Racing Yamaha Team:

“I’m super happy, honestly. Really, happy because it’s been a difficult season. We had to manage a lot both on and off the track. I gave my best in every race, every weekend, to try to achieve this result. I couldn’t be happier right now. Being World Champion once is incredible, but twice is something else entirely—crazy, even. My team did a fantastic job all season. They pushed me a lot to achieve this, and for me, they are the best. I want to say thanks to them and to all the people around me because I came from a difficult season with injuries and bad results. At times, it was hard to keep believing, but I had many people around me helping me improve. This title is for all of them.

The championship was something really new for everyone, and we had to adapt. Everyone was a bit nervous at the start because it was such a new experience, but I think Dorna and the FIM did an amazing job. We had a really good championship, with a high level of competition and a lot of great races. I think the fans, especially those watching on TV, enjoyed it a lot. So for me, it was a successful season for everyone.”

The FIM Women’s Circuit Racing World Championship was established to promote female talent and provide a platform for women to compete at the highest level of motorcycle racing.

Carrasco’s achievement is a testament to the progress being made in inclusivity within motorsport and serves as an inspiration to future generations of female riders.

BbKRT Ready To Test New bimota KB998 At Jerez

The Bimota by Kawasaki KB998 will be Kawasaki's main entrant in the 2025 World Superbike Championship. Photo courtesy BbKRT.

Fresh from the recent announcement of the transition from the Kawasaki Racing Team to BbKRT, the new team are preparing to unveil their as yet unseen race machine and commence testing at the Jerez track in Southern Spain on 22 October.

Created in partnership with bimota, the brand new KB998 race machine proudly harnesses a Kawasaki engine within a bimota designed and constructed chassis. A joint collaboration as part of the much wider global development of the bimota brand, the excitement surrounding the unveiling of the machine and its first laps of the 4.428 Km Circuito de Jerez has been much anticipated among racing fans.

A core element of a new project that sees the new team in WorldSBK emerge with a fresh pit box decor and team clothing, the appearance of the new racing machine is contrasted by internal continuity in terms of both riders and support staff within the pit box and across the team, a benefit appreciated by Team Manager, Guim Roda.

“Of course there has been much work to do behind the scenes to get us to the eve of unveiling the new bike and testing on track in public for the very first time.

To have Alex Lowes and Axel Bassani onboard as riders – plus the associated pit crews and support staff – means we can concentrate on the core tasks at hand, testing our new KB998 racing machine and accumulating data across a testing schedule, inside the test limitation rules set by BWO and the FIM, reaching from tomorrow and across the Winter.

This is very new bike and will need our full commitment We are very enthusiastic to be part of this fascinating project and honoured to take responsibility for making the new bimota KB998 perform on top as soon as possible

We have updated all our social media accounts so we encourage fans to follow BbKRT and play their part in this exciting journey.”

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