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2021 Willow Springs Final Race Results© , Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.
Roadracing World Young Guns 2021: Max Van
Roadracing World started this exclusive special feature recognizing the most promising young road racers as an answer to pessimists who claimed North America had no new, up-and-coming young racers. This edition of the Roadracing World Young Gun Awards marks the 25th consecutive year of showcasing what is actually an abundance of new talent.
Roadracing World Young Guns have won:
FIM MotoGP and FIM Superbike races and World Championships;
MotoAmerica/AMA Pro races and Championships, including nine MotoAmerica/AMA Pro Superbike Championships;
A KTM RC Cup World Final race;
The Daytona 200 (10 times);
WERA National Endurance Championships and WERA National Challenge Championships;
ASRA/Formula USA Grand National and CCS National Championships;
AMA Road Racing Grand Championships and Horizon Awards;
USGPRU National Championships;
Many regional and local titles.
The competition has continually become more intense as more – and younger—racers with higher levels of accomplishment are nominated, and the level of achievement required to make the grade keeps getting tougher.
We’ve spent the last several months accepting nominations and evaluating road racers between the ages of 10 and 18 (as of the start of the 2021 season) who have, at a minimum, won Expert-level road races and/or Championships or had outstanding results as an Amateur/Novice. Most of the riders included here have done far more than the minimum.
The young riders recognized here are the most promising young road racers in North America. All have earned the title of Roadracing World Young Gun.
We will feature one Young Gun per day, presenting them in alphabetical order.
Max Van (a.k.a. Maximillion VanDenBrouck)
Age: 15.
Current home: Shelby, Michigan.
Current height/weight: 5’10”/155 pounds.
Current school grade level: 10th grade.
Began riding at age: 2 years.
First road race: 2019, Grattan, Michigan, WERA, 3 Novice classes, 3 wins.
Current racebike: Kawasaki Ninja 400.
Current tuners/mechanics: Brian Van (father), Dave Bavol, Jimmy Fox.
Primary race series: MotoAmerica SportbikeTrackGear.com Junior Cup, WERA.
Top sponsors: SportbikeTrackGear.com and its customers.
Recent racing accomplishments: 2020 season, placed 17th in Junior Cup Championship (only competed in 3 rounds, 2 top-10 finishes), won WERA North Central Region F Superstock Expert Championship (6 race wins); 2019 season, finished 2nd in WERA North Central Region D Superbike and D Superstock Novice Championships (12 race wins).
2021 racing goal: Finish on the podium in a race and in the top seven in the MotoAmerica Junior Cup Championship.
Racing career goal: Have fun, push to the best of my abilities, earn a ride on a Team Hammer bike.
Racing hero: Chris Ulrich.
Favorite track: Grattan Raceway.
Favorite hobby: Working for my family’s business, SportbikeTrackGear.com
If I wasn’t racing I would be…: I would be riding around and doing track days with our awesome STG customers.
Video: Husqvarna Motorcycles Reveals E-Pilen Electric Concept Bike
HUSQVARNA MOTORCYCLES ENTERS THE EXCITING WORLD OF ELECTRIC MOBILITY WITH THE E-PILEN CONCEPT
ONE OF SEVERAL ZERO EMISSIONS OPTIONS IN DEVELOPMENT FOR URBAN RIDERS
The Husqvarna E-Pilen electric-powered concept streetbike. Photo courtesy Husqvarna Motorcycles.Husqvarna Motorcycles is going forward into the future with a zero-emissions product range to broaden the brand’s appeal to existing riders as well as a whole new audience.
Inspired by the pioneering design of the successful Vitpilen and Svartpilen models, the brand offers a tantalising vision of what its future move into electric urban mobility will look like with the E-Pilen Concept.
The current Husqvarna Motorcycles street range is already known for being progressive, smart, dynamic and purely design oriented. These values will continue to be hallmarks of the E-mobility line. The E-Pilen Concept is a clear statement of that intent. With a power output of 8 kW and a range of 100 km the E-Pilen Concept has clearly been developed with the urban commuter and leisure rider in mind, with a range that maximises the time between battery charges.
Husqvarna Motorcycles keeps an open approach to all battery opportunities, aiding the parallel advantage of both fixed and swappable solutions. The E-Pilen Concept features a modular and swappable battery system allowing the power pack to be exchanged, extending the appeal and utility of electric motorcycles to those considering the switch.
It has always been the aim of Husqvarna Motorcycles to develop new products accessible to the broadest possible spectrum of riders. The E-mobility range will retain and continue the riding pleasure and dynamics refined through the long history and experience of the brand. In support of the E-mobility initiative, Husqvarna Motorcycles will strategically expand its dealer presence in urban and metropolitan areas.
Development of the E-mobility range is already well-advanced and further information will be released in the near future.
MotoGP: World Championship Continues Next Weekend At Jerez
Stopping Quartararo: the contenders get ready for Jerez
The Frenchman is on a charge and his rivals will be delighted to look back at his domination at the venue last season. But this is 2021, and nothing is guaranteed…
Monday, 26 April 2021
Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) is a man on a mission. After not even starting the season with a podium, the Frenchman regrouped and refocused for round two, taking a resounding victory in the Doha GP before in Portimão we saw more of the same. And the same was not simply the fastest man on Sunday, but also a tactical masterclass in when and where to attack, and whom, before deciding where to pull that final pin. His two wins rocket El Diablo to the top of the standings and very much make him the man to beat. The next track on the calendar is one at which he dominated twice last year too, and although it was in the heat of July, that makes good reading for him. So who’s going to stop Quartararo’s roll?
The closest to doing so in Portugal was Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team), and the Italian did it from the fourth row of the grid. Had he not fallen foul of Yellow Flags in qualifying, where an electrifying new lap record got scrubbed off, could he have challenged? It’s a tall order but Pecco has taken a big step forward so far this season. Jerez, however, hasn’t been the kindest to Ducati of late… although that means another podium or challenge at the front would be an even bigger statement. His fellow Borgo Panigale machines of teammate Jack Miller (Ducati Lenovo Team) and Johann Zarco (Pramac Racing) will also want a lot from Andalucia, as both look to bounce back quickly from crashes, for Zarco one that saw him lose the Championship lead.
Bouncing back is also the mission for Maverick Viñales (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP). After a masterclass in the season opener, Viñales just lost out in Doha and then a difficult qualifying – with two laps scrubbed for the most infinitesimal track limit infractions – in Portugal put him on the back foot. Despite a bad start and getting swallowed by the pack, however, he stays third overall with 11th place doing enough to keep Zarco at bay. Back on home turf, reset and reloaded, can Viñales unleash the pace he showed in round one and take the fight back to his teammate? And what about Petronas Yamaha SRT?
It’s fair to say the first two rounds of the season weren’t what the grid’s newest Independent Team had been expecting, with both Franco Morbidelli and Valentino Rossi seeming out of position for team and rider. Morbidelli put that to rights in Portugal as he was top Independent Team rider and only just off the podium in fourth, so can he keep that rolling in Jerez? And can the ‘Doctor’, back on familiar turf and with more track time, bounce back from a tough few first races of the season?
Joan Mir (Team Suzuki Ecstar), meanwhile, was back on the podium last time out. And last year, that sparked his run for the crown. However, the reigning Champion said the venues so far and a few more aren’t their ideal circuits for starting to go on a similar run just yet, so will it be ‘just’ a podium challenge again? Or more? Teammate Alex Rins will be eager to right wrongs from last time out too after a stunner in Portimão was cut short by a crash out of second, so could he stay in with Quartararo this time around?
Jerez is also good news for a few others on the grid, and one must be Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing). Last year as a rookie the results didn’t come, but some of the South African’s FP4 pace was an eyebrow raiser… and that was first time out. Now, his sophomore season started at a tough track for KTM and a venue he’d never raced – the MotoGP™ class didn’t compete in Qatar last year – and then Portimão, where he took an impressive and hard-fought fifth that raised the eyebrows of the podium finishers. Jerez is somewhere he has more experience and a few good memories to boot, having won in Moto3™ from the very back of the grid. Teammate Miguel Oliveira, after a tougher home race this time round, will also be focused on taking the Austrian factory back to the front as the pendulum he’d had since round one starts to swing back towards the other side of the garage.
There is, of course, an elephant in the room in the shape of eight-time World Champion Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda Team). His return in Portugal was a successful one as he took seventh, and he was understandably emotional after completing his first race since Valencia 2019. More time has passed since lights out on the Algarve for Marquez to continue his recovery, and now it’s Jerez he’s facing down. Scene of his crash, but also scene of previous glory as well as much more familiar turf. What can he do? And can Pol Espargaro (Repsol Honda Team) take a step forward as he fends off Alex Marquez (LCR Honda Castrol) and Takaaki Nakagami (LCR Honda Idemitsu) in the Honda battle? There’s also test rider Stefan Bradl back on track doing a wildcard for HRC in Jerez, so he’ll be an interesting benchmark as ever.
Speaking of benchmarks, Portugal saw Aprilia continue to home in on a good few. Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia Racing Team Gresini) put in another impressive ride to equal the Noale factory’s best result in MotoGP™ in sixth, and he’ll want to continue his roll to underline the steps forward made by the nearly all-new package. After a certain Andrea Dovizioso took the RS-GP for a spin recently at the very same Jerez too, was there any feedback from Dovi to Noale, or was it a taster for rider more than a data-gathering exercise?
In the battle of the Moto2™ graduate rookies, meanwhile, Enea Bastianini (Avintia Esponsorama Racing) is now back ahead of Doha podium man Jorge Martin (Pramac Racing) as the latter crashed on Saturday in Portugal and is now sidelined until at least Mugello. He’ll be replaced by Tito Rabat, and Bastianini will be looking to gain a little more ground on Luca Marini (Sky VR46 Avintia) too. The Beast has been consistent, but Marini did seriously impress in Free Practice in Portugal so it’s starting to come together.
And so we arrive in Jerez, with one man on a roll and a host of contenders looking to stop him in his tracks. The Gran Premio Red Bull de España is always a classic and 2021 will be no different, with so many storylines already emerging there’s almost too much to take in. But try your best, with lights out for the MotoGP™ class set for 14:00 (GMT +2) on Sunday the 2nd of May!
MotoGP™ Championship top five:
1 Fabio Quartararo – Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP – Yamaha – 61
2 Francesco Bagnaia – Ducati Lenovo Team – Ducati – 46
3 Maverick Viñales – Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP – Yamaha – 41
4 Johann Zarco* – Pramac Racing – Ducati – 40
5 Joan Mir – Team Suzuki Ecstar – Suzuki – 38
*Independent Team rider
Advantage Gardner and Fernandez as Lowes looks to fight back
The Brit crashed out in Portugal and it’s home hero – and rookie – Fernandez on the charge. So can the early season benchmark bounce back?
After the first two races of 2021, Sam Lowes (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team) looked almost invincible. But that’s never the case in racing and a shocking highside at Turn 1 in Portugal served as a reminder that the business of winning isn’t as easy as the number 22 made it look in Qatar, with everyone vulnerable to mistakes. Now the Brit will be on a mission to fight back – but Portimão winner (Raul Fernandez) and veteran teammate Remy Gardner will be the first looking to stop that happening.
Raul Fernandez has been on a rookie roll since his switch to the intermediate class and a first win looked certain this season, but it’s happened rather early as the Spaniard made a late race charge to the top in Portugal. That will give him extra confidence as he arrives on home turf for round four, and he’ll be expected near the front once again. Will Jerez see him able to fight for the win once more? Or is his prowess at Portimão complemented by the track, where he dominated last year in Moto3™, and now he’ll be aiming for the podium? Time will tell…
His teammate Remy Gardner, meanwhile, is also making consistency look easy. A late lunge on Joe Roberts (Italtrans Racing Team) on the Algarve secured him his third podium from three, and although none have yet been a win, that makes him the Championship leader. Can he make that extra step and stamp some authority on Jerez as Lowes comes out the blocks maybe a little more cautiously? Or is the Aussie’s game plan, far from the win or bin of old, just about raking in those points? There’s a final corner at Jerez made for the kind of move Gardner pulled off on Roberts just last race.
Aron Canet (Inde Aspar Team) was back on song in Portimão too and after taking his first Moto2™ podium, he’ll want to get back in the battle at the front to prove he belongs there. So too will the aforementioned Roberts, who was a real threat on the Algarve until just losing out to Gardner in the final stages. Fabio Di Giannantonio (Federal Oil Gresini Moto2) wants to bother the podium more as well after a more muted rounds two and three, and what about Marco Bezzecchi (Sky Racing Team VR46)? The Italian has been there but not yet dealt out the searing speed he had at times in 2020, so he’ll be looking to do just that. He’s also the only one of the frontrunners so far who was on the podium in Jerez last year.
There’s also the likes of Xavi Vierge (Petronas Sprinta Racing), his teammate Jake Dixon, rookie Ai Ogura (Idemitsu Honda Team Asia), Augusto Fernandez (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team) and Hector Garzo (Flexbox HP 40) in the mix, with a deep field in Moto2™ and running at the front never guaranteed. Who will tame Jerez?
A new Championship leader, a rookie sensation, a veteran campaigner and another nearly 30 riders walk into a classic racetrack… what do you get? Great racing. Tune in for the Moto2™ race at 12:20 (GMT +2) at the Gran Premio Red Bull de España to see what Andalucia has in store.
Moto2™ Championship top five:
1 Remy Gardner – Red Bull KTM Ajo – Kalex – 56
2 Raul Fernandez – Red Bull KTM Ajo – Kalex – 52
3 Sam Lowes – Elf Marc VDS Racing Team – Kalex – 50
4 Marco Bezzecchi – Sky Racing Team VR46 – Kalex – 36
5 Fabio Di Giannantonio – Federal Oil Gresini Moto2 – Kalex – 27
Hurricane Acosta arrives in Jerez
Can anyone stop the rookie sensation – and on such familiar, home turf?
It’s been some time since a rider made a splash in the Grand Prix paddock as big as that of Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Ajo), but the Portuguese GP did the exact opposite of calming down the hype. As the Spaniard hunted down and passed Dennis Foggia (Leopard Racing) with clinical but very much on-the-edge brilliance at Portimão, all it did was add to the legend before Moto3™ saddle up at the Circuito de Jerez-Angel Nieto; turf that’s even more familiar to the rookie superstar. So can anyone stop him? They’ll have to soon, as his lead is already well over a race win in the standings…
One bit of good news for the grid is that Acosta hasn’t actually been the fastest so far. His speed is undoubtedly impressive and even more so for a rookie, but it’s race day where the Spaniard has done his shining. He’s won from pitlane but on Saturday, he’s not made it onto the front two rows of the grid yet. So tactics, racecraft and, sometimes, the pure luck of the draw are what the rest of the grid will likely need to defeat him, and there are a good few contenders waiting in the wings to do just that.
The first rider looking to hit back is Acosta’s teammate Jaume Masia, not least of all because he’s second overall in the standings, as well as the veteran in the box. He’ll want to put a dent in the attention being grabbed by the other side of the garage. Masia won the season opener and was quick in Portugal before a crash that he somehow recovered from to still take ninth, so he has speed. Can it all come together in Jerez?
Darryn Binder (Petronas Sprinta Racing) will be another key threat as he looks to hit back after a pitlane start in Portugal. The South African is looking consistent, aggressive and fast this season, and last year in the second race at Jerez he was only just off the podium. He’ll likely be one who won’t arrive at the final corner and play it safe, but so far this season he also seems like he’d pull it off. Wanting to make a charge at the crown means the gap is already such that it’s the kind of gamble worth making, too.
Niccolo Antonelli (Avintia Esponsorama Moto3) is another who should be well in the fight at the front. Until Doha, the Italian hadn’t been on the podium, suffering with a shoulder problem too, since his emotional win at Jerez in 2019. So he has form, he has experience and so far in 2021 he has consistency. Andrea Migno (Rivacold Snipers Team) too, and he was only just of the Spanish GP podium last year. Can he keep it rolling?
There’s also Romano Fenati (Sterilgarda Max Racing Team), another Italian veteran who’s already won at Jerez, and Tatsuki Suzuki (SIC58 Squadra Corse), who took to the top step last year in Andalucia. Foggia is another threat, as are Gabriel Rodrigo (Indonesian Racing Gresini Moto3), teammate Jeremy Alcoba and Ayumu Sasaki (Red Bull KTM Tech 3). And what about GASGAS Solunion Aspar Team’s Sergio Garcia and fast rookie Izan Guevara? Some bad luck has hit both so far in 2021, and Jerez is a chance to fight back.
Last but not least, the biggest chance to fight back likely comes for John McPhee (Petronas Sprinta Racing). The start of the season has been an uphill struggle of bad luck, boiling over and then a pitlane start with an added 10 second delay, so we’ve not seen the Scotsman in the thick of it on the final lap. And the last time we did at Jerez, he missed out on the win by just 0.064… so there’s some serious speed waiting to get back in the fight at the front.
Rookie superstars, veteran campaigners, a classic venue and an incredibly tempting final corner… Moto3™ are ready to take on the Circuito de Jerez-Angel Nieto and you know it’s going to be a stunner. Tune in on Sunday at 11:00 (GMT +2) for more awesome action from the lightweight class of Grand Prix racing!
Moto3™ Championship top five:
1 Pedro Acosta – Red Bull KTM Ajo – KTM – 70
2 Jaume Masia – Red Bull KTM Ajo – KTM – 39
3 Darryn Binder – Petronas Sprinta Racing – Honda – 36
4 Niccolo Antonelli – Avintia Esponsorama Moto3 – KTM – 36
5 Andrea Migno – Rivacold Snipers Team – Honda – 29
Back in action! MotoE™ returns to Jerez for Round 1
The FIM Enel MotoE™ World Cup starts now and it’s back to familiar turf as testing turns to racing in Jerez
After two pre-season tests at the Circuito de Jerez-Angel Nieto, it’s action stations for the 2021 FIM Enel MotoE™ World Cup as the grid return to the same venue for Round 1 at the Gran Premio Red Bull de España. It’s familiar turf for all by now, and all signs point to another classic race to open the season.
Eric Granado (One Energy Racing) arrives as the fastest rider in testing, the Brazilian leaving it late to pip Dominique Aegerter (Dynavolt Intact GP) to the top on the final day and set a new – although unofficial – lap record. It was just 0.041 between the two, however, and Aegerter dominated the race simulation… but Granado was one who dropped back and didn’t push. Last year, it was similarly split: Granado won the first race of the season at Jerez, and Aegerter the second as the Cup started the year with two rounds in Andalucia. This time, there’s one top step at the Spanish GP… so who’s going to be on it?
Granado and Aegerter certainly arrive as key favourites, but reigning Cup winner Jordi Torres (Pons Racing 40) is another who was fast in testing and kept his cards close to his chest in the race simulation. There are no points for being fast in pre-season, so the Spaniard will likely be one to watch again as the lights go out for real. The 2019 Cup winner and 2020 runner up, meanwhile, arrives as an expected contender but so far hasn’t been a key threat at the front. Not having adapted as quickly to changes in the tyres, Matteo Ferrari (Team Gresini MotoE) will be looking for more and with his track record of consistency on race day, can’t be counted out.
The top three on the combined timesheets in the test, however, was completed by Xavier Cardelus (Avintia Esponsorama Racing) as the Andorran continued to impress, but he had close company from the similarly experienced Alessandro Zaccone (Octo Pramac MotoE). Lukas Tulovic (Tech 3 E-Racing), back at full power after his highside last season and subsequent surgery, will be another more experienced competitor looking to bother the podium, and leapfrog those he’s been ahead of so far in MotoE™.
And then there are the two headline-stealing rookies, who many will have a big eye on as Round 1 begins: Fermin Aldeguer (Openbank Aspar Team) and Miquel Pons (LCR E-Team). Aldeguer was the talk of the first test as he came out guns blazing with immediate speed, but Pons also started to catch his compatriot on take two. What can they do once it’s about putting everything together in a race and the lights are going out for real?
MotoE™ rookie but Grand Prix veteran Yonny Hernandez (Octo Pramac MotoE) will also want to move forward, as will fellow electric debutant Hikari Okubo (Avant Ajo MotoE) after they did a solid job slotting in but will have seen the speed of the likes of Aldeguer. Veteran Mattia Casadei (Ongetta SIC58 Squadra Corse), who was a little down the timesheets in testing, will also want a lot more and has already been on the podium at Jerez. He missed the first test due to injury and was getting up to speed in the second… will he make a leap forward with more time to recover and more time on the bike at Round 1?
Two tests, a good few months and some fresh faces later, the FIM Enel MotoE™ World Cup is about to return. Tune in for the first E-pole of the season on Saturday at 16:05 (GMT +2) and then watch the lights go out on race day at 10:05.
Japanese Superbike: Nakasuga Wins Again, At Suzuka
2021 MFJ SuperBike All-Japan Road Race Championship
Suzuka Circuit, Japan
April 24-25, 2021
Race Results:
Race One Results (April 24):
1. Katsuyuki Nakasuga (Yam YZF-R1), 14 laps, Total Race Time 34:30.343, Best Lap Time 2:06.058
2. Ryuichi Kiyonari (Hon CBR1000RR-R), -3.742 seconds
3. Yukio Kagayama (Suz GSX-R1000)
4. Yudai Kmaeyama (Hon CBR1000RR-R)
5. Daijiro Hiura (Hon CBR1000RR-R)
6. Kosuke Akiyoshi (Hon CBR1000RR-R)
7. Hideyuki Munakata (Suz GSX-R1000),
8. Takuma Kunimine (Hon CBR1000RR-R)
9. Yuta Kodama (Yam YZF-R1)
10. Taro Sekiguchi (BMW S1000RR)
11. Tasuya Yamaguchi (Hon CBR1000RR-R)
12. Kokoro Atsumi (BMW S1000RR)
13. Shinichi Nakatomi (Yam YZF-R1)
14. Akira Yanagawa (Kaw ZX-10RR)
15. Tomoya Hoshino (BMW S1000RR)
16. Siichiro Minamimoto (Yam YZF-R1)
17. Kazuma Tsuda (Suz GSX-R1000)
18. Takeshi Yasuda (Hon CBR1000RR-R)
19. Koji Teramoto (Suz GSX-R1000)
20. Masahiro Shinjyo (Kaw ZX-10RR)
DNF. Teppei Nagoe (Hon CBR1000RR-R)
DNF. Satoru Iwata (Hon CBR1000RR-R)
DNS. Kazuki Watanabe (Suz GSX-R1000),
Race Two Results (April 25):
1. Katsuyuki Nakasuga (Yam YZF-R1), 16 Laps, Total Race Time 33:53.577, Best Lap Time 2:06.224
2. Ryuichi Kiyonari (Hon CBR1000RR-R), -5.093 seconds
3. Yudai Kamei (Hon CBR1000RR-R)
4. Daijiro Hiura (Hon CBR1000RR-R)
5. Sodo Hamahara (Hon CBR1000RR-R)
6. Teppei Nagoe (Hon CBR1000RR-R)
7. Yukio Kagayama (Suz GSX-R1000)
8. Satoru Iwata (Hon CBR1000RR-R)
9. Kosuke Akiyoshi (Hon CBR1000RR-R)
10. Hideyuki Munakata (Suz GSX-R1000)
11. Yuta Kodama (Yam YZF-R1)
12. Taro Sekiguchi (BMW S1000RR)
13. Kokoro Atsumi (BMW S1000RR)
14. Tatsuya Yamaguchi (Hon CBR1000RR-R)
15. Akira Yanagawa (Kaw ZX-10RR)
16. Shinichi Nakatomi (Yam YZF-R1)
17. Takuma Kunimine (Hon CBR1000RR-R)
18. Soichirou Minamimoto (Yam YZF-R1)
19. Kazuki Tokudome (Yam YZF-R1)
20. Masahieo Shinjyo (Kaw ZX-10RR)
DNF. Kazuma Tsuda (Suz GSX-R1000)
DNF. Tomoya Hoshino (BMW S1000RR)
DNS. Kazuki Watanabe (Suz GSX-R1000)
Point Standings (after 4 of 12 races):
1. Nakasuga, 100 points
2. Kiyonari, 60
3. Kagayama, 44
4. Kamei, 41
5. Hamahara, 40
6. TIE, Watanabe, 36
7. TIE, Akiyoshi, 36
8. Kodama, 27
9. Hiura, 24
10. Sekiguchi, 23
Recent Birth: Bretley Dane Hayes
Four-time AMA Pro Superbike Champion and rider coach Josh Hayes and Pro racer/race mechanic Melissa Paris had a daughter, Bretley Dane Hayes, April 24, in San Diego, CA.
The caption Hayes posted with this photo on social media read: “Welcome to the team Bretley Dane Hayes! Our little girl was almost 8lbs, and came to see us 4/24/21! Don’t worry #hawkhayes, having a girl teammate ain’t so bad!!”
Hayes and Paris have a three-year-old son named Hawk Hayes.
ASRA: Babuska, Doyle, Finnerty, Rodio Win At New Jersey Motorsports Park
Millville, NJ – Under clearing skies and a brisk breeze, the ASRA Sprint Series presented by Pirelli Tire took to the New Jersey Motorsports Park’s Thunderbolt Circuit and put on a great show for everyone.
In Superstock, Frank Babuska, Jr. took his Kawasaki ZX-10R to the front and never looked back as he cleared second-place Ricky O’Hare by 12 seconds.
The Sportbike race was a nail biter as Dominic Doyle and Justin Jones finished just 0.042 second apart after 9 laps at Thunderbolt, with Doyle taking top honors.
For ASRA Thunderbike, Will Finnerty rode his Ducati 748 to a solid victory over Brad Faas on the Aprilia 660 by 8.4 seconds.
The closest contest of the day was ASRA Moto 3 as wonder kid Kayla Yaakov, riding a Kawasaki Ninja 400, came up just 0.007 second short of Gus Rodio’s Kawasaki 400 in the best race of the day!
In Amateur action it was Kevin Law in SuperStock, Grant Lancaster in Sportbike, and Dylan Singh in Moto3 taking the top spot on the podium.
For more racing information visit www.asraracing.com or call us at (817) 246-1127. Join ASRA in the greatest road racing experience available today!
Editorial Note: Use the zoom and scroll tools in the bottom left corner of the PDF viewer to better see all of the race results.
042521 NJMP ASRA ResultsJim “Moose” Kuykendall, R.I.P. (Updated)
Jim “Moose” Kuykendall, a popular long-time motorcycle road race tire vendor best known for his many years running Trackside Racers Supply, died Monday, April 19.
According to racing chaplain Tim Burleson, “He suffered a fall Saturday resulting in brain bleeds, resulting in a massive stroke.”
Kuykendall is survived by his wife Theresa.
We will post more information as it becomes available.
Update: Read the official obituary HERE
Suzuki Announces Updated 2022-Model GSX-S1000
Suzuki Introduces The 2022 GSX-S1000
Razor Sharp and Ready to Strike
Brea, CA (April 26, 2021) – Suzuki Motor USA, LLC is proud to introduce the 2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000. This new Suzuki street machine has been completely updated and aims to deliver an exciting new riding experience with increased power, control, and agility combined with a striking new look.
yet sporty riding position. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
“The GSX-S1000 has been a very successful motorcycle for Suzuki due in large part to its legendary GSX-R-based powerplant,” said Kerry Graeber, Vice President, Division Manager MC/ATV Sales and Marketing for Suzuki Motor USA, LLC. “The new machine features a comprehensive list of performance and styling enhancements that improve on the original version in every way. With its aggressive street fighter looks coupled with superb, open-class performance we can’t wait for our customers and dealers to experience the new 2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000.”
The first thing one notices about the 2022 GSX-S1000 is its aggressive look featuring the “Razor Sharp and Ready to Strike” design concept. This fresh new design is led by a new stacked LED headlight package. The minimalist cowling that surrounds the headlight adds even more sharp lines and a sense of tension inspired by Suzuki’s MotoGP World Champion racing machines and stealth aircraft.
smooth torque curve with increased horsepower. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
The compact front-end design pairs with a slim tail section and compact exhaust system to establish a clean, agile look. The minimalist rear tail section also accentuates the muscular look of the engine, fuel tank, and mid-section. The result is a mass-forward design that delivers a dynamic and aggressive stance for the new GSX-S1000.
Powering the 2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000 is an updated 999cc, liquid-cooled, inline four-cylinder engine that builds its superbike performance heritage through key refinements aimed at delivering smooth and powerful performance across the rev range. The new motor features an updated 4-2-1 exhaust system that meets Euro 5 emission standards. Updated camshafts and valve springs, a new fuel injection system, and a new airbox work together to deliver increased power and a broader, smoother torque curve for a more exciting riding experience. In addition, the GSX-S1000 now features the Suzuki Clutch Assist System (SCAS) for smoother deceleration and better control when downshifting.
The Suzuki GSX-S1000 is the next motorcycle in the Suzuki lineup to include the highly advanced Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.)*. The S.I.R.S. system on this new 1000cc street machine includes the Suzuki Drive Mode Selector (SDMS), Suzuki Traction Control, Ride by Wire Electronic Throttle, Bi-Directional Quick Shift, Suzuki Easy Start, and Low RPM Assist systems. These advanced Suzuki electronic systems enable the rider to optimize the performance characteristics of the motorcycle to best suit riding conditions, varying road surfaces, as well as the rider’s level of confidence and experience.
Achieving the right balance of performance, agility, stability, and control demands attention to every aspect of chassis design. The 2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000 delivers on all of those points by utilizing a proven twin-spar aluminum frame combined with a sturdy aluminum-alloy braced swingarm straight off the GSX-R1000. Fully adjustable KYB suspension works perfectly with a new wider tapered handlebar for increased control and agility. An updated seat design, new wheels and new Dunlop Roadsport 2 tires, and a new larger fuel tank combined with ABS-equipped radial-mount Brembo monobloc calipers and 310mm brake rotors all work together to produce the most agile, comfortable, and exciting GSX-S1000 yet.
Wrap it all up in three stunning color combinations including a brilliant Metallic Triton Blue, Metallic Matte Mechanical Gray inspired by camouflaged jet fighters, concrete, and asphalt, and the sophisticated Glass Sparkle Black color and you’ve got an amazing new Suzuki built to own the streets.
The 2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000 will arrive in Suzuki dealerships in Fall 2021.
Learn more about the new 2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000 at www.SuzukiCycles.com
*The Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.) includes traction control and ABS-related functions. The Traction Control System is not a substitute for the rider’s throttle control. It cannot prevent loss of traction due to excessive speed when the rider enters a turn and/or applies the brakes. Traction control cannot prevent the front wheel from losing grip. Depending on road surface conditions, such as wet, loose, or uneven roads, braking distance for an ABS-equipped vehicle may be longer than for a vehicle not equipped with ABS. ABS cannot prevent wheel skidding caused by braking while cornering. Please ride carefully and do not overly rely on ABS.
N2/WERA National Endurance Series: AOD Wins At CMP
Pirelli-Shod Army Of Darkness Takes WERA/N2 Endurance Victory At Carolina Motorsports Park.
The four hour endurance race was the first rain soaked flag to flag national endurance race for over a decade and AOD ended the race with a 6 lap margin of victory. Using Pirelli rains on their extensively modified Yamaha YZF-R1, AOD took the race lead on lap three and held it through red flags, light rain, heavy rain and pit stops.
Army Of Darkness veteran riders Chris Peris and Ben Walters were joined by Pirelli sponsored Xavier Zayat to lay down a relentless pace in the treacherous wet conditions. While all other Heavyweight teams eventually found themselves off the track and in the mud, AOD was able to stay on the pavement, and the top of the podium.
No one was more surprised that team captain Sam Fleming. “We came here to test our winter upgrades two weeks ago and work with our new tire partner Pirelli. It was probably our most embarrassing track outing in years and, to be fair, we’ve done a lot of stupid stuff at race tracks over the years! Two weeks ago our bike had unrideable power delivery, self-created oil leaks, fading brakes and the gas tank was terrible for the riders. We had a lot of garage time over the last ten days and worked hard on Friday to find a set up. The long hours and sacrifices of personal time were really weighing on the team and to take our first win of the season as our first race on Pirellis helped to cheer everyone up!”
Chris Peris, with the fastest average lap time of any rider’s stints, opined: “Honestly, I love riding in the rain because it is less physical and more mental. I had never ridden on the Pirelli rains until today and they had so much grip we were carrying wheelies everywhere. The bike was also night and day better from two weeks ago. I had to push a little early in the race to keep the lead but as the other teams ran into trouble I was able to take it back a notch and just enjoy the bike.”
AOD is sponsored by: Army of Darkness, Yamaha Champions Riding School, Yamaha, Pirelli, Chicken Hawk, Woodcraft, Hindle, K-Tech, Fast Frank Racing, Supersprox, N2, Industry13, WERA, Roadracing World.
AHRMA: Complete Race Results From Willow Springs
Editorial Note: Use the zoom and scroll tools in the bottom left corner of the PDF viewer to better see all of the race results.
2021 Willow Springs Final Race ResultsRoadracing World Young Guns 2021: Max Van
Roadracing World started this exclusive special feature recognizing the most promising young road racers as an answer to pessimists who claimed North America had no new, up-and-coming young racers. This edition of the Roadracing World Young Gun Awards marks the 25th consecutive year of showcasing what is actually an abundance of new talent.
Roadracing World Young Guns have won:
FIM MotoGP and FIM Superbike races and World Championships;
MotoAmerica/AMA Pro races and Championships, including nine MotoAmerica/AMA Pro Superbike Championships;
A KTM RC Cup World Final race;
The Daytona 200 (10 times);
WERA National Endurance Championships and WERA National Challenge Championships;
ASRA/Formula USA Grand National and CCS National Championships;
AMA Road Racing Grand Championships and Horizon Awards;
USGPRU National Championships;
Many regional and local titles.
The competition has continually become more intense as more – and younger—racers with higher levels of accomplishment are nominated, and the level of achievement required to make the grade keeps getting tougher.
We’ve spent the last several months accepting nominations and evaluating road racers between the ages of 10 and 18 (as of the start of the 2021 season) who have, at a minimum, won Expert-level road races and/or Championships or had outstanding results as an Amateur/Novice. Most of the riders included here have done far more than the minimum.
The young riders recognized here are the most promising young road racers in North America. All have earned the title of Roadracing World Young Gun.
We will feature one Young Gun per day, presenting them in alphabetical order.
Max Van (a.k.a. Maximillion VanDenBrouck)
Age: 15.
Current home: Shelby, Michigan.
Current height/weight: 5’10”/155 pounds.
Current school grade level: 10th grade.
Began riding at age: 2 years.
First road race: 2019, Grattan, Michigan, WERA, 3 Novice classes, 3 wins.
Current racebike: Kawasaki Ninja 400.
Current tuners/mechanics: Brian Van (father), Dave Bavol, Jimmy Fox.
Primary race series: MotoAmerica SportbikeTrackGear.com Junior Cup, WERA.
Top sponsors: SportbikeTrackGear.com and its customers.
Recent racing accomplishments: 2020 season, placed 17th in Junior Cup Championship (only competed in 3 rounds, 2 top-10 finishes), won WERA North Central Region F Superstock Expert Championship (6 race wins); 2019 season, finished 2nd in WERA North Central Region D Superbike and D Superstock Novice Championships (12 race wins).
2021 racing goal: Finish on the podium in a race and in the top seven in the MotoAmerica Junior Cup Championship.
Racing career goal: Have fun, push to the best of my abilities, earn a ride on a Team Hammer bike.
Racing hero: Chris Ulrich.
Favorite track: Grattan Raceway.
Favorite hobby: Working for my family’s business, SportbikeTrackGear.com
If I wasn’t racing I would be…: I would be riding around and doing track days with our awesome STG customers.
Video: Husqvarna Motorcycles Reveals E-Pilen Electric Concept Bike
HUSQVARNA MOTORCYCLES ENTERS THE EXCITING WORLD OF ELECTRIC MOBILITY WITH THE E-PILEN CONCEPT
ONE OF SEVERAL ZERO EMISSIONS OPTIONS IN DEVELOPMENT FOR URBAN RIDERS
The Husqvarna E-Pilen electric-powered concept streetbike. Photo courtesy Husqvarna Motorcycles.Husqvarna Motorcycles is going forward into the future with a zero-emissions product range to broaden the brand’s appeal to existing riders as well as a whole new audience.
Inspired by the pioneering design of the successful Vitpilen and Svartpilen models, the brand offers a tantalising vision of what its future move into electric urban mobility will look like with the E-Pilen Concept.
The current Husqvarna Motorcycles street range is already known for being progressive, smart, dynamic and purely design oriented. These values will continue to be hallmarks of the E-mobility line. The E-Pilen Concept is a clear statement of that intent. With a power output of 8 kW and a range of 100 km the E-Pilen Concept has clearly been developed with the urban commuter and leisure rider in mind, with a range that maximises the time between battery charges.
Husqvarna Motorcycles keeps an open approach to all battery opportunities, aiding the parallel advantage of both fixed and swappable solutions. The E-Pilen Concept features a modular and swappable battery system allowing the power pack to be exchanged, extending the appeal and utility of electric motorcycles to those considering the switch.
It has always been the aim of Husqvarna Motorcycles to develop new products accessible to the broadest possible spectrum of riders. The E-mobility range will retain and continue the riding pleasure and dynamics refined through the long history and experience of the brand. In support of the E-mobility initiative, Husqvarna Motorcycles will strategically expand its dealer presence in urban and metropolitan areas.
Development of the E-mobility range is already well-advanced and further information will be released in the near future.
MotoGP: World Championship Continues Next Weekend At Jerez
Stopping Quartararo: the contenders get ready for Jerez
The Frenchman is on a charge and his rivals will be delighted to look back at his domination at the venue last season. But this is 2021, and nothing is guaranteed…
Monday, 26 April 2021
Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) is a man on a mission. After not even starting the season with a podium, the Frenchman regrouped and refocused for round two, taking a resounding victory in the Doha GP before in Portimão we saw more of the same. And the same was not simply the fastest man on Sunday, but also a tactical masterclass in when and where to attack, and whom, before deciding where to pull that final pin. His two wins rocket El Diablo to the top of the standings and very much make him the man to beat. The next track on the calendar is one at which he dominated twice last year too, and although it was in the heat of July, that makes good reading for him. So who’s going to stop Quartararo’s roll?
The closest to doing so in Portugal was Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team), and the Italian did it from the fourth row of the grid. Had he not fallen foul of Yellow Flags in qualifying, where an electrifying new lap record got scrubbed off, could he have challenged? It’s a tall order but Pecco has taken a big step forward so far this season. Jerez, however, hasn’t been the kindest to Ducati of late… although that means another podium or challenge at the front would be an even bigger statement. His fellow Borgo Panigale machines of teammate Jack Miller (Ducati Lenovo Team) and Johann Zarco (Pramac Racing) will also want a lot from Andalucia, as both look to bounce back quickly from crashes, for Zarco one that saw him lose the Championship lead.
Bouncing back is also the mission for Maverick Viñales (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP). After a masterclass in the season opener, Viñales just lost out in Doha and then a difficult qualifying – with two laps scrubbed for the most infinitesimal track limit infractions – in Portugal put him on the back foot. Despite a bad start and getting swallowed by the pack, however, he stays third overall with 11th place doing enough to keep Zarco at bay. Back on home turf, reset and reloaded, can Viñales unleash the pace he showed in round one and take the fight back to his teammate? And what about Petronas Yamaha SRT?
It’s fair to say the first two rounds of the season weren’t what the grid’s newest Independent Team had been expecting, with both Franco Morbidelli and Valentino Rossi seeming out of position for team and rider. Morbidelli put that to rights in Portugal as he was top Independent Team rider and only just off the podium in fourth, so can he keep that rolling in Jerez? And can the ‘Doctor’, back on familiar turf and with more track time, bounce back from a tough few first races of the season?
Joan Mir (Team Suzuki Ecstar), meanwhile, was back on the podium last time out. And last year, that sparked his run for the crown. However, the reigning Champion said the venues so far and a few more aren’t their ideal circuits for starting to go on a similar run just yet, so will it be ‘just’ a podium challenge again? Or more? Teammate Alex Rins will be eager to right wrongs from last time out too after a stunner in Portimão was cut short by a crash out of second, so could he stay in with Quartararo this time around?
Jerez is also good news for a few others on the grid, and one must be Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing). Last year as a rookie the results didn’t come, but some of the South African’s FP4 pace was an eyebrow raiser… and that was first time out. Now, his sophomore season started at a tough track for KTM and a venue he’d never raced – the MotoGP™ class didn’t compete in Qatar last year – and then Portimão, where he took an impressive and hard-fought fifth that raised the eyebrows of the podium finishers. Jerez is somewhere he has more experience and a few good memories to boot, having won in Moto3™ from the very back of the grid. Teammate Miguel Oliveira, after a tougher home race this time round, will also be focused on taking the Austrian factory back to the front as the pendulum he’d had since round one starts to swing back towards the other side of the garage.
There is, of course, an elephant in the room in the shape of eight-time World Champion Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda Team). His return in Portugal was a successful one as he took seventh, and he was understandably emotional after completing his first race since Valencia 2019. More time has passed since lights out on the Algarve for Marquez to continue his recovery, and now it’s Jerez he’s facing down. Scene of his crash, but also scene of previous glory as well as much more familiar turf. What can he do? And can Pol Espargaro (Repsol Honda Team) take a step forward as he fends off Alex Marquez (LCR Honda Castrol) and Takaaki Nakagami (LCR Honda Idemitsu) in the Honda battle? There’s also test rider Stefan Bradl back on track doing a wildcard for HRC in Jerez, so he’ll be an interesting benchmark as ever.
Speaking of benchmarks, Portugal saw Aprilia continue to home in on a good few. Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia Racing Team Gresini) put in another impressive ride to equal the Noale factory’s best result in MotoGP™ in sixth, and he’ll want to continue his roll to underline the steps forward made by the nearly all-new package. After a certain Andrea Dovizioso took the RS-GP for a spin recently at the very same Jerez too, was there any feedback from Dovi to Noale, or was it a taster for rider more than a data-gathering exercise?
In the battle of the Moto2™ graduate rookies, meanwhile, Enea Bastianini (Avintia Esponsorama Racing) is now back ahead of Doha podium man Jorge Martin (Pramac Racing) as the latter crashed on Saturday in Portugal and is now sidelined until at least Mugello. He’ll be replaced by Tito Rabat, and Bastianini will be looking to gain a little more ground on Luca Marini (Sky VR46 Avintia) too. The Beast has been consistent, but Marini did seriously impress in Free Practice in Portugal so it’s starting to come together.
And so we arrive in Jerez, with one man on a roll and a host of contenders looking to stop him in his tracks. The Gran Premio Red Bull de España is always a classic and 2021 will be no different, with so many storylines already emerging there’s almost too much to take in. But try your best, with lights out for the MotoGP™ class set for 14:00 (GMT +2) on Sunday the 2nd of May!
MotoGP™ Championship top five:
1 Fabio Quartararo – Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP – Yamaha – 61
2 Francesco Bagnaia – Ducati Lenovo Team – Ducati – 46
3 Maverick Viñales – Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP – Yamaha – 41
4 Johann Zarco* – Pramac Racing – Ducati – 40
5 Joan Mir – Team Suzuki Ecstar – Suzuki – 38
*Independent Team rider
Advantage Gardner and Fernandez as Lowes looks to fight back
The Brit crashed out in Portugal and it’s home hero – and rookie – Fernandez on the charge. So can the early season benchmark bounce back?
After the first two races of 2021, Sam Lowes (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team) looked almost invincible. But that’s never the case in racing and a shocking highside at Turn 1 in Portugal served as a reminder that the business of winning isn’t as easy as the number 22 made it look in Qatar, with everyone vulnerable to mistakes. Now the Brit will be on a mission to fight back – but Portimão winner (Raul Fernandez) and veteran teammate Remy Gardner will be the first looking to stop that happening.
Raul Fernandez has been on a rookie roll since his switch to the intermediate class and a first win looked certain this season, but it’s happened rather early as the Spaniard made a late race charge to the top in Portugal. That will give him extra confidence as he arrives on home turf for round four, and he’ll be expected near the front once again. Will Jerez see him able to fight for the win once more? Or is his prowess at Portimão complemented by the track, where he dominated last year in Moto3™, and now he’ll be aiming for the podium? Time will tell…
His teammate Remy Gardner, meanwhile, is also making consistency look easy. A late lunge on Joe Roberts (Italtrans Racing Team) on the Algarve secured him his third podium from three, and although none have yet been a win, that makes him the Championship leader. Can he make that extra step and stamp some authority on Jerez as Lowes comes out the blocks maybe a little more cautiously? Or is the Aussie’s game plan, far from the win or bin of old, just about raking in those points? There’s a final corner at Jerez made for the kind of move Gardner pulled off on Roberts just last race.
Aron Canet (Inde Aspar Team) was back on song in Portimão too and after taking his first Moto2™ podium, he’ll want to get back in the battle at the front to prove he belongs there. So too will the aforementioned Roberts, who was a real threat on the Algarve until just losing out to Gardner in the final stages. Fabio Di Giannantonio (Federal Oil Gresini Moto2) wants to bother the podium more as well after a more muted rounds two and three, and what about Marco Bezzecchi (Sky Racing Team VR46)? The Italian has been there but not yet dealt out the searing speed he had at times in 2020, so he’ll be looking to do just that. He’s also the only one of the frontrunners so far who was on the podium in Jerez last year.
There’s also the likes of Xavi Vierge (Petronas Sprinta Racing), his teammate Jake Dixon, rookie Ai Ogura (Idemitsu Honda Team Asia), Augusto Fernandez (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team) and Hector Garzo (Flexbox HP 40) in the mix, with a deep field in Moto2™ and running at the front never guaranteed. Who will tame Jerez?
A new Championship leader, a rookie sensation, a veteran campaigner and another nearly 30 riders walk into a classic racetrack… what do you get? Great racing. Tune in for the Moto2™ race at 12:20 (GMT +2) at the Gran Premio Red Bull de España to see what Andalucia has in store.
Moto2™ Championship top five:
1 Remy Gardner – Red Bull KTM Ajo – Kalex – 56
2 Raul Fernandez – Red Bull KTM Ajo – Kalex – 52
3 Sam Lowes – Elf Marc VDS Racing Team – Kalex – 50
4 Marco Bezzecchi – Sky Racing Team VR46 – Kalex – 36
5 Fabio Di Giannantonio – Federal Oil Gresini Moto2 – Kalex – 27
Hurricane Acosta arrives in Jerez
Can anyone stop the rookie sensation – and on such familiar, home turf?
It’s been some time since a rider made a splash in the Grand Prix paddock as big as that of Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Ajo), but the Portuguese GP did the exact opposite of calming down the hype. As the Spaniard hunted down and passed Dennis Foggia (Leopard Racing) with clinical but very much on-the-edge brilliance at Portimão, all it did was add to the legend before Moto3™ saddle up at the Circuito de Jerez-Angel Nieto; turf that’s even more familiar to the rookie superstar. So can anyone stop him? They’ll have to soon, as his lead is already well over a race win in the standings…
One bit of good news for the grid is that Acosta hasn’t actually been the fastest so far. His speed is undoubtedly impressive and even more so for a rookie, but it’s race day where the Spaniard has done his shining. He’s won from pitlane but on Saturday, he’s not made it onto the front two rows of the grid yet. So tactics, racecraft and, sometimes, the pure luck of the draw are what the rest of the grid will likely need to defeat him, and there are a good few contenders waiting in the wings to do just that.
The first rider looking to hit back is Acosta’s teammate Jaume Masia, not least of all because he’s second overall in the standings, as well as the veteran in the box. He’ll want to put a dent in the attention being grabbed by the other side of the garage. Masia won the season opener and was quick in Portugal before a crash that he somehow recovered from to still take ninth, so he has speed. Can it all come together in Jerez?
Darryn Binder (Petronas Sprinta Racing) will be another key threat as he looks to hit back after a pitlane start in Portugal. The South African is looking consistent, aggressive and fast this season, and last year in the second race at Jerez he was only just off the podium. He’ll likely be one who won’t arrive at the final corner and play it safe, but so far this season he also seems like he’d pull it off. Wanting to make a charge at the crown means the gap is already such that it’s the kind of gamble worth making, too.
Niccolo Antonelli (Avintia Esponsorama Moto3) is another who should be well in the fight at the front. Until Doha, the Italian hadn’t been on the podium, suffering with a shoulder problem too, since his emotional win at Jerez in 2019. So he has form, he has experience and so far in 2021 he has consistency. Andrea Migno (Rivacold Snipers Team) too, and he was only just of the Spanish GP podium last year. Can he keep it rolling?
There’s also Romano Fenati (Sterilgarda Max Racing Team), another Italian veteran who’s already won at Jerez, and Tatsuki Suzuki (SIC58 Squadra Corse), who took to the top step last year in Andalucia. Foggia is another threat, as are Gabriel Rodrigo (Indonesian Racing Gresini Moto3), teammate Jeremy Alcoba and Ayumu Sasaki (Red Bull KTM Tech 3). And what about GASGAS Solunion Aspar Team’s Sergio Garcia and fast rookie Izan Guevara? Some bad luck has hit both so far in 2021, and Jerez is a chance to fight back.
Last but not least, the biggest chance to fight back likely comes for John McPhee (Petronas Sprinta Racing). The start of the season has been an uphill struggle of bad luck, boiling over and then a pitlane start with an added 10 second delay, so we’ve not seen the Scotsman in the thick of it on the final lap. And the last time we did at Jerez, he missed out on the win by just 0.064… so there’s some serious speed waiting to get back in the fight at the front.
Rookie superstars, veteran campaigners, a classic venue and an incredibly tempting final corner… Moto3™ are ready to take on the Circuito de Jerez-Angel Nieto and you know it’s going to be a stunner. Tune in on Sunday at 11:00 (GMT +2) for more awesome action from the lightweight class of Grand Prix racing!
Moto3™ Championship top five:
1 Pedro Acosta – Red Bull KTM Ajo – KTM – 70
2 Jaume Masia – Red Bull KTM Ajo – KTM – 39
3 Darryn Binder – Petronas Sprinta Racing – Honda – 36
4 Niccolo Antonelli – Avintia Esponsorama Moto3 – KTM – 36
5 Andrea Migno – Rivacold Snipers Team – Honda – 29
Back in action! MotoE™ returns to Jerez for Round 1
The FIM Enel MotoE™ World Cup starts now and it’s back to familiar turf as testing turns to racing in Jerez
After two pre-season tests at the Circuito de Jerez-Angel Nieto, it’s action stations for the 2021 FIM Enel MotoE™ World Cup as the grid return to the same venue for Round 1 at the Gran Premio Red Bull de España. It’s familiar turf for all by now, and all signs point to another classic race to open the season.
Eric Granado (One Energy Racing) arrives as the fastest rider in testing, the Brazilian leaving it late to pip Dominique Aegerter (Dynavolt Intact GP) to the top on the final day and set a new – although unofficial – lap record. It was just 0.041 between the two, however, and Aegerter dominated the race simulation… but Granado was one who dropped back and didn’t push. Last year, it was similarly split: Granado won the first race of the season at Jerez, and Aegerter the second as the Cup started the year with two rounds in Andalucia. This time, there’s one top step at the Spanish GP… so who’s going to be on it?
Granado and Aegerter certainly arrive as key favourites, but reigning Cup winner Jordi Torres (Pons Racing 40) is another who was fast in testing and kept his cards close to his chest in the race simulation. There are no points for being fast in pre-season, so the Spaniard will likely be one to watch again as the lights go out for real. The 2019 Cup winner and 2020 runner up, meanwhile, arrives as an expected contender but so far hasn’t been a key threat at the front. Not having adapted as quickly to changes in the tyres, Matteo Ferrari (Team Gresini MotoE) will be looking for more and with his track record of consistency on race day, can’t be counted out.
The top three on the combined timesheets in the test, however, was completed by Xavier Cardelus (Avintia Esponsorama Racing) as the Andorran continued to impress, but he had close company from the similarly experienced Alessandro Zaccone (Octo Pramac MotoE). Lukas Tulovic (Tech 3 E-Racing), back at full power after his highside last season and subsequent surgery, will be another more experienced competitor looking to bother the podium, and leapfrog those he’s been ahead of so far in MotoE™.
And then there are the two headline-stealing rookies, who many will have a big eye on as Round 1 begins: Fermin Aldeguer (Openbank Aspar Team) and Miquel Pons (LCR E-Team). Aldeguer was the talk of the first test as he came out guns blazing with immediate speed, but Pons also started to catch his compatriot on take two. What can they do once it’s about putting everything together in a race and the lights are going out for real?
MotoE™ rookie but Grand Prix veteran Yonny Hernandez (Octo Pramac MotoE) will also want to move forward, as will fellow electric debutant Hikari Okubo (Avant Ajo MotoE) after they did a solid job slotting in but will have seen the speed of the likes of Aldeguer. Veteran Mattia Casadei (Ongetta SIC58 Squadra Corse), who was a little down the timesheets in testing, will also want a lot more and has already been on the podium at Jerez. He missed the first test due to injury and was getting up to speed in the second… will he make a leap forward with more time to recover and more time on the bike at Round 1?
Two tests, a good few months and some fresh faces later, the FIM Enel MotoE™ World Cup is about to return. Tune in for the first E-pole of the season on Saturday at 16:05 (GMT +2) and then watch the lights go out on race day at 10:05.
Japanese Superbike: Nakasuga Wins Again, At Suzuka
2021 MFJ SuperBike All-Japan Road Race Championship
Suzuka Circuit, Japan
April 24-25, 2021
Race Results:
Race One Results (April 24):
1. Katsuyuki Nakasuga (Yam YZF-R1), 14 laps, Total Race Time 34:30.343, Best Lap Time 2:06.058
2. Ryuichi Kiyonari (Hon CBR1000RR-R), -3.742 seconds
3. Yukio Kagayama (Suz GSX-R1000)
4. Yudai Kmaeyama (Hon CBR1000RR-R)
5. Daijiro Hiura (Hon CBR1000RR-R)
6. Kosuke Akiyoshi (Hon CBR1000RR-R)
7. Hideyuki Munakata (Suz GSX-R1000),
8. Takuma Kunimine (Hon CBR1000RR-R)
9. Yuta Kodama (Yam YZF-R1)
10. Taro Sekiguchi (BMW S1000RR)
11. Tasuya Yamaguchi (Hon CBR1000RR-R)
12. Kokoro Atsumi (BMW S1000RR)
13. Shinichi Nakatomi (Yam YZF-R1)
14. Akira Yanagawa (Kaw ZX-10RR)
15. Tomoya Hoshino (BMW S1000RR)
16. Siichiro Minamimoto (Yam YZF-R1)
17. Kazuma Tsuda (Suz GSX-R1000)
18. Takeshi Yasuda (Hon CBR1000RR-R)
19. Koji Teramoto (Suz GSX-R1000)
20. Masahiro Shinjyo (Kaw ZX-10RR)
DNF. Teppei Nagoe (Hon CBR1000RR-R)
DNF. Satoru Iwata (Hon CBR1000RR-R)
DNS. Kazuki Watanabe (Suz GSX-R1000),
Race Two Results (April 25):
1. Katsuyuki Nakasuga (Yam YZF-R1), 16 Laps, Total Race Time 33:53.577, Best Lap Time 2:06.224
2. Ryuichi Kiyonari (Hon CBR1000RR-R), -5.093 seconds
3. Yudai Kamei (Hon CBR1000RR-R)
4. Daijiro Hiura (Hon CBR1000RR-R)
5. Sodo Hamahara (Hon CBR1000RR-R)
6. Teppei Nagoe (Hon CBR1000RR-R)
7. Yukio Kagayama (Suz GSX-R1000)
8. Satoru Iwata (Hon CBR1000RR-R)
9. Kosuke Akiyoshi (Hon CBR1000RR-R)
10. Hideyuki Munakata (Suz GSX-R1000)
11. Yuta Kodama (Yam YZF-R1)
12. Taro Sekiguchi (BMW S1000RR)
13. Kokoro Atsumi (BMW S1000RR)
14. Tatsuya Yamaguchi (Hon CBR1000RR-R)
15. Akira Yanagawa (Kaw ZX-10RR)
16. Shinichi Nakatomi (Yam YZF-R1)
17. Takuma Kunimine (Hon CBR1000RR-R)
18. Soichirou Minamimoto (Yam YZF-R1)
19. Kazuki Tokudome (Yam YZF-R1)
20. Masahieo Shinjyo (Kaw ZX-10RR)
DNF. Kazuma Tsuda (Suz GSX-R1000)
DNF. Tomoya Hoshino (BMW S1000RR)
DNS. Kazuki Watanabe (Suz GSX-R1000)
Point Standings (after 4 of 12 races):
1. Nakasuga, 100 points
2. Kiyonari, 60
3. Kagayama, 44
4. Kamei, 41
5. Hamahara, 40
6. TIE, Watanabe, 36
7. TIE, Akiyoshi, 36
8. Kodama, 27
9. Hiura, 24
10. Sekiguchi, 23
Recent Birth: Bretley Dane Hayes
Four-time AMA Pro Superbike Champion and rider coach Josh Hayes and Pro racer/race mechanic Melissa Paris had a daughter, Bretley Dane Hayes, April 24, in San Diego, CA.
The caption Hayes posted with this photo on social media read: “Welcome to the team Bretley Dane Hayes! Our little girl was almost 8lbs, and came to see us 4/24/21! Don’t worry #hawkhayes, having a girl teammate ain’t so bad!!”
Hayes and Paris have a three-year-old son named Hawk Hayes.
ASRA: Babuska, Doyle, Finnerty, Rodio Win At New Jersey Motorsports Park
Millville, NJ – Under clearing skies and a brisk breeze, the ASRA Sprint Series presented by Pirelli Tire took to the New Jersey Motorsports Park’s Thunderbolt Circuit and put on a great show for everyone.
In Superstock, Frank Babuska, Jr. took his Kawasaki ZX-10R to the front and never looked back as he cleared second-place Ricky O’Hare by 12 seconds.
The Sportbike race was a nail biter as Dominic Doyle and Justin Jones finished just 0.042 second apart after 9 laps at Thunderbolt, with Doyle taking top honors.
For ASRA Thunderbike, Will Finnerty rode his Ducati 748 to a solid victory over Brad Faas on the Aprilia 660 by 8.4 seconds.
The closest contest of the day was ASRA Moto 3 as wonder kid Kayla Yaakov, riding a Kawasaki Ninja 400, came up just 0.007 second short of Gus Rodio’s Kawasaki 400 in the best race of the day!
In Amateur action it was Kevin Law in SuperStock, Grant Lancaster in Sportbike, and Dylan Singh in Moto3 taking the top spot on the podium.
For more racing information visit www.asraracing.com or call us at (817) 246-1127. Join ASRA in the greatest road racing experience available today!
Editorial Note: Use the zoom and scroll tools in the bottom left corner of the PDF viewer to better see all of the race results.
042521 NJMP ASRA ResultsJim “Moose” Kuykendall, R.I.P. (Updated)
Jim “Moose” Kuykendall, a popular long-time motorcycle road race tire vendor best known for his many years running Trackside Racers Supply, died Monday, April 19.
According to racing chaplain Tim Burleson, “He suffered a fall Saturday resulting in brain bleeds, resulting in a massive stroke.”
Kuykendall is survived by his wife Theresa.
We will post more information as it becomes available.
Update: Read the official obituary HERE
Suzuki Announces Updated 2022-Model GSX-S1000
Suzuki Introduces The 2022 GSX-S1000
Razor Sharp and Ready to Strike
Brea, CA (April 26, 2021) – Suzuki Motor USA, LLC is proud to introduce the 2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000. This new Suzuki street machine has been completely updated and aims to deliver an exciting new riding experience with increased power, control, and agility combined with a striking new look.
yet sporty riding position. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
“The GSX-S1000 has been a very successful motorcycle for Suzuki due in large part to its legendary GSX-R-based powerplant,” said Kerry Graeber, Vice President, Division Manager MC/ATV Sales and Marketing for Suzuki Motor USA, LLC. “The new machine features a comprehensive list of performance and styling enhancements that improve on the original version in every way. With its aggressive street fighter looks coupled with superb, open-class performance we can’t wait for our customers and dealers to experience the new 2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000.”
The first thing one notices about the 2022 GSX-S1000 is its aggressive look featuring the “Razor Sharp and Ready to Strike” design concept. This fresh new design is led by a new stacked LED headlight package. The minimalist cowling that surrounds the headlight adds even more sharp lines and a sense of tension inspired by Suzuki’s MotoGP World Champion racing machines and stealth aircraft.
smooth torque curve with increased horsepower. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA, LLC.
The compact front-end design pairs with a slim tail section and compact exhaust system to establish a clean, agile look. The minimalist rear tail section also accentuates the muscular look of the engine, fuel tank, and mid-section. The result is a mass-forward design that delivers a dynamic and aggressive stance for the new GSX-S1000.
Powering the 2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000 is an updated 999cc, liquid-cooled, inline four-cylinder engine that builds its superbike performance heritage through key refinements aimed at delivering smooth and powerful performance across the rev range. The new motor features an updated 4-2-1 exhaust system that meets Euro 5 emission standards. Updated camshafts and valve springs, a new fuel injection system, and a new airbox work together to deliver increased power and a broader, smoother torque curve for a more exciting riding experience. In addition, the GSX-S1000 now features the Suzuki Clutch Assist System (SCAS) for smoother deceleration and better control when downshifting.
The Suzuki GSX-S1000 is the next motorcycle in the Suzuki lineup to include the highly advanced Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.)*. The S.I.R.S. system on this new 1000cc street machine includes the Suzuki Drive Mode Selector (SDMS), Suzuki Traction Control, Ride by Wire Electronic Throttle, Bi-Directional Quick Shift, Suzuki Easy Start, and Low RPM Assist systems. These advanced Suzuki electronic systems enable the rider to optimize the performance characteristics of the motorcycle to best suit riding conditions, varying road surfaces, as well as the rider’s level of confidence and experience.
Achieving the right balance of performance, agility, stability, and control demands attention to every aspect of chassis design. The 2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000 delivers on all of those points by utilizing a proven twin-spar aluminum frame combined with a sturdy aluminum-alloy braced swingarm straight off the GSX-R1000. Fully adjustable KYB suspension works perfectly with a new wider tapered handlebar for increased control and agility. An updated seat design, new wheels and new Dunlop Roadsport 2 tires, and a new larger fuel tank combined with ABS-equipped radial-mount Brembo monobloc calipers and 310mm brake rotors all work together to produce the most agile, comfortable, and exciting GSX-S1000 yet.
Wrap it all up in three stunning color combinations including a brilliant Metallic Triton Blue, Metallic Matte Mechanical Gray inspired by camouflaged jet fighters, concrete, and asphalt, and the sophisticated Glass Sparkle Black color and you’ve got an amazing new Suzuki built to own the streets.
The 2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000 will arrive in Suzuki dealerships in Fall 2021.
Learn more about the new 2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000 at www.SuzukiCycles.com
*The Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.) includes traction control and ABS-related functions. The Traction Control System is not a substitute for the rider’s throttle control. It cannot prevent loss of traction due to excessive speed when the rider enters a turn and/or applies the brakes. Traction control cannot prevent the front wheel from losing grip. Depending on road surface conditions, such as wet, loose, or uneven roads, braking distance for an ABS-equipped vehicle may be longer than for a vehicle not equipped with ABS. ABS cannot prevent wheel skidding caused by braking while cornering. Please ride carefully and do not overly rely on ABS.
N2/WERA National Endurance Series: AOD Wins At CMP
Pirelli-Shod Army Of Darkness Takes WERA/N2 Endurance Victory At Carolina Motorsports Park.
The four hour endurance race was the first rain soaked flag to flag national endurance race for over a decade and AOD ended the race with a 6 lap margin of victory. Using Pirelli rains on their extensively modified Yamaha YZF-R1, AOD took the race lead on lap three and held it through red flags, light rain, heavy rain and pit stops.
Army Of Darkness veteran riders Chris Peris and Ben Walters were joined by Pirelli sponsored Xavier Zayat to lay down a relentless pace in the treacherous wet conditions. While all other Heavyweight teams eventually found themselves off the track and in the mud, AOD was able to stay on the pavement, and the top of the podium.
No one was more surprised that team captain Sam Fleming. “We came here to test our winter upgrades two weeks ago and work with our new tire partner Pirelli. It was probably our most embarrassing track outing in years and, to be fair, we’ve done a lot of stupid stuff at race tracks over the years! Two weeks ago our bike had unrideable power delivery, self-created oil leaks, fading brakes and the gas tank was terrible for the riders. We had a lot of garage time over the last ten days and worked hard on Friday to find a set up. The long hours and sacrifices of personal time were really weighing on the team and to take our first win of the season as our first race on Pirellis helped to cheer everyone up!”
Chris Peris, with the fastest average lap time of any rider’s stints, opined: “Honestly, I love riding in the rain because it is less physical and more mental. I had never ridden on the Pirelli rains until today and they had so much grip we were carrying wheelies everywhere. The bike was also night and day better from two weeks ago. I had to push a little early in the race to keep the lead but as the other teams ran into trouble I was able to take it back a notch and just enjoy the bike.”
AOD is sponsored by: Army of Darkness, Yamaha Champions Riding School, Yamaha, Pirelli, Chicken Hawk, Woodcraft, Hindle, K-Tech, Fast Frank Racing, Supersprox, N2, Industry13, WERA, Roadracing World.