PETRONAS Yamaha SRT look to come back strongly in Portugal
Franco Morbidelli and Valentino Rossi begin European leg of 2021 season this weekend
This weekend will see the resumption of the 2021 MotoGP season, as action gets underway at Algarve International Circuit for the PortugueseGP. PETRONAS Yamaha Sepang Racing Team riders Franco Morbidelli and Valentino Rossi will be hoping to make progress and score valuable points at the first European round of the year.
Morbidelli showed good form at the inaugural MotoGP round at Portimão last year, starting on the front row of the grid after qualifying second and ending the race on the podium – having crossed the line third. Although the 2021 edition will be held several months earlier in the year than it was last time, the Italian will be aiming to improve on the first two races of the season and come away with a positive result at Portugal.
Team-mate Rossi will be hoping that the start of the European leg of the 2021 MotoGP championship will signal a return to the front of the grid, and allow him to put the troubles experienced in Qatar behind him. Although Valentino didn’t have the best of results at Portimão last year, he was able to recover places during the race and score valuable points (12th) – something he will be looking to improve this weekend.
Track action at the Grande Prémio de Portugal will begin for the PETRONAS Yamaha SRT pair with Free Practice 1 on Friday at 9.55am local time (4.55pm MYT), and end with Sunday’s 25-lap race at 1pm local time (8pm MYT).
Franco Morbidelli
After being on the podium in Portugal last year, I hope that we can regain our good pace and be in contention for a good result again this weekend. Every race is different though so we will have to wait and see how we are once we are out on track. We have the data from last year and we know that we were fast, so at least we will have something to use as a comparison. We are improving each race and we’ve been trying to understand what happened in the bike set up during our time in Qatar, hopefully we have found some improvements and can continue in a positive direction this weekend.
Valentino Rossi
The Portimao circuit is fantastic, it’s something different to all of the rest, but on the other side of things, it’s very difficult. It’s a track that you need a lot of time to learn and every time you race there you can improve on something. We found some new settings on the bike on the Sunday morning warm-up session of the DohaGP, which meant that I was able to maintain a better pace but we were hampered for the bad starting position. We hope that we can be stronger at this third GP and be more competitive, but also in Europe as a whole – there are a lot of tracks there that are good for me.
MRA New Racers’ School puts 50 on the track at High Plains Raceway
Byers, CO – Colorado’s Motorcycle Roadracing Association (MRA) filled the Moto Station classroom and HPR racetrack with 50 road race students over April 9-10. Friday night MRA New Racer Director Jeff Brown filled up the garage at Moto Station in Commerce City with a group of race students anxious to get on track with the club. During this classroom session, Brown took the students through such topics as physical & mental preparation, race equipment, suspension setup, and most importantly track safety.
The MRA is greatly appreciative of Moto Station & Kory Cowan for enabling the MRA to hold this uniquely large race class at their venue late into the night on Friday.
Early Saturday morning Brown met the students at High Plains Raceway for a full day of two-on-one instruction with a field of experienced racers volunteering as instructors. The coaching included line choice, body positioning, control operations, and even touched on various forms of race craft. The culmination of Saturday’s program was a series of student-only races on the full course at HPR.
In the end, all but one of the students qualified for MRA novice race licensing with a number signing up that same day. It seems the club has a good start in shaking off the difficult 2020 season with a large and enthusiastic group of new racers.
The Motorcycle Roadracing Association is dedicated to promoting safe and competitive motorcycle road racing events for enthusiasts in Colorado and the surrounding area. For more information go to http://www.mra-racing.org/.
APRILIA RACING AND ANDREA DOVIZIOSO CONCLUDE THREE DAYS OF WORK ON THE RS-GP IN JEREZ
NEW TEST AT MUGELLO 11 AND 12 MAY
For three days, Aprilia Racing and Andrea Dovizioso met and became acquainted at the Jerez track.
The 12th to the 14th of April were days of intense work, largely occupied by the necessary adaptation between bike and rider.
Over the three days, Andrea progressively and positively increased his familiarity with a bike that was obviously entirely new to him and he was able to begin providing quite a bit of feedback to the engineers.
With his rigour and analytical thinking, Andrea went over every aspect of the RS-GP: engine, electronics, chassis architecture and aerodynamics, providing valuable indications and addressing changes to the base package that consistently improved his performance and confidence on the bike.
A time attack was never done, both because of the many adaptations that did not permit it and because it was not one of the goals of the test.
Aprilia Racing and Andrea Dovizioso will further develop the work done in Jerez with a new test on 11 and 12 May at Mugello, so on a track with different characteristics, where Andrea will be able to ride a bike evolved according to the findings on the Andalusian track.
Andrea Dovizioso on an Aprilia RS-GP at Jerez. Photo courtesy Aprilia Racing.
ANDREA DOVIZIOSO
“Getting back in the saddle of a MotoGP bike was quite a thrill and for this I wish to thank Aprilia Racing. These were three very interesting days, dedicated largely to finding the best position on the bike. Together, we decided to do another test at Mugello in about one month and in the meantime work on a few aspects of the bike.”
ROMANO ALBESIANO – APRILIA RACING TECHNICAL DIRECTOR
“These were three very interesting days, partly because of the pleasure and interest in sharing the vision that Andrea gave us of the MotoGP bike. His experience showed us a clear and analytical method in approaching the fine tuning of the bike. We had a sincere exchange of ideas with him and we appreciated that. I hope he felt the same way about it.”
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.
David Kohlstaedt. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
David Kohlstaedt
Age: 17.
Current home: Puyallup, Washington.
Current height/weight: 5’10”/130 pounds.
Current school grade level: 11th grade.
Began riding at age: 4 years.
First road race: 2013, Shelton, Washington, WMRRA, 125GP, 3rd place.
Current racebike: Kawasaki Ninja 400.
Current tuners/mechanics: Tim O’Mahony.
Primary race series: MotoAmerica Junior Cup.
Top sponsors: Veloce Racing, 2 Fast Track Days, Fluid Suspension Science, 2Wheel Dyno Works, Arai, Sammy Halbert Racing, Dunlop, Bellevue Kawasaki, Motion Pro, Vortex Racing, Vircos, EBC, Umbrella Girls USA, Purveyors of Speed, KFG Motorsports.
Recent racing accomplishments: 2020 season, finished 6th in MotoAmerica Junior Cup Championship (best race finish was 4th, twice), placed 2nd in WMRRA Lightweight Superbike and 3rd in WMRRA Lightweight Supersport and Formula Two Championships; 2019 season, placed 30th in MotoAmerica Junior Cup Championship (best race finish 11th at Barber), won WMRRA Ultralightweight Superbike Championship (5 wins), placed 2nd in WMRRA Formula Ultra 2 Championship (3 podiums in 4 races); 2018 season, placed 7th in overall WMRRA Championship, won WMRRA Ultra-Lightweight SS Championship, finished 2nd in WMRRA 500 Superbike and Ultra-Lightweight GP Championships, set WMRRA Ultra-Lightweight class lap record at The Ridge Motorsports Park, collected 2 top-20 finishes in MotoAmerica Junior Cup races while riding a Kawasaki Ninja 300; 2015 season, named AMA Youth Rider of the Year in Flat Track.
2021 racing goals: Win MotoAmerica Junior Cup Championship.
Racing career goal: Race in the MotoGP World Championship.
Racing heroes: Sammy Halbert, Valentino Rossi
Favorite track: New Jersey Motorsports Park.
Favorite hobby: Playing guitar and piano.
If I wasn’t racing I would be…: Enjoying time with my family.
(April 13, 2021, Elora, Tennessee) “Bagged” sport-touring cruisers will be in the spotlight during the American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association (AHRMA) 2021 Bridgestone National Historic Cup Road Race Series events at Willow Springs International Raceway during April, 2021.
“Baggers” are Harley-Davidson or Indian motorcycles with saddlebags mounted near the rear-wheel. In many motorcycle scenes, these bikes are referred to as “baggers.” The Bagger Racing League (BRL) sanctions “Bagger” competitions at road racing events throughout the United States.
The BRL rules allow for a variety of modifications to make the big bikes safe and competitive on a road racing track. However, all bikes must have the characteristic front fairings and hard-sided saddlebags.
The Baggers will join the rest of the AHRMA road racing program April 16-18 at the Streets of Willow and April 23-25 at Willow Springs Raceway both in Rosamond, California
Alex Mock, AHRMA’s Road Racing Director, recognized growing interest in this form of “alternative” road racing and selected the “Bagger” class as a Directors Choice event during the back-to-back AHRMA nationals at the Willow Springs tracks.
“With the Bagger Racing League gaining traction, we have been getting lots of requests for licensing. Since we are listed as a BRL approved sanctioned race organization we have made a limited number of entries available,” Mock said. “Bagger racers can take part in the AHRMA Academy of Racing also being held at these events, get their AHRMA racing license and then race with us all in the same weekend.
“We are honored for the Bagger Racing League to gain the support of a legacy race organization like AHRMA.” stated John Oakes with BRL. “Bagger Racing League is attracting a lot of riders to come to the track for the first time or the first time on a Bagger and other V-Twin. With the support of AHRMA we are able to give riders a great environment to get licensed, practice and race.”
“With the rise of performance baggers we’ve seen over the last 5 years, we wanted an event that could help promote those parts that make these bikes so sought after.” said Rob Buydos, Bagger Racing League™ founder.
Mock said, “Making room for the ‘Baggers’ as Director’s Choice classes will really enhance the motorcycle experience as we mix the fastest from the past with a new genre of racing. It’ll be a great showing of how motorcycle racing has evolved over the decades and is continuing to evolve. Plus, ‘Baggers’ are just flat-out, all-American cool and what better place to showcase them for the first time with AHRMA at our 25th Anniversary of the Corsa Moto Classica at Willow Springs!”
The AHRMA “Bagger” events will feature the BRL “Baggers Class” that requires saddlebags and windscreens and the “Super Hooligans” class for lightly-modified street bikes used for Dirt Track racing.
“AHRMA has a tradition of highlighting ‘alternative’ road racing machines that may not find a home with other racing groups, and giving these ‘Baggers’ a place to race is part of our culture,” said Arthur Kowitz, chairman of the AHRMA Board of Trustees. “One of my AHRMA race bikes is electric so I know first-hand how great it is to have a place to compete on a somewhat odd bike.”
AHRMA (American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to preserving, restoring and competing on historic motorcycles. With more than 3,000 members, AHRMA is the leading historic motorcycle racing group in North America and one of the largest in the world. The association’s enthusiastic membership reflects this country’s strong interest in classic bikes.
NEW 2022 SCRAMBLER 1200 XC AND XE AND SCRAMBLER 1200 STEVE MCQUEEN EDITION
With all the Scrambler 1200 XC and XE’s category-dominating specification and style, incredible torque delivery and signature soundtrack, the new 2022 update delivers lower emissions whilst retaining all the thrilling performance, high power and torque that they are renowned for. Alongside the 2022 generation Scramblers comes a new beautiful and unique limited edition that celebrates the most famous movie star, stunt and motorcycle in history, with the Scrambler 1200 Steve McQueen Edition.
A 2022-model Triumph Scrambler 1200 Steve McQueen Edition. Photo courtesy Triumph.
Thrilling Performance
– New engine update with lower emissions
– New exhaust system update with improved heat distribution
– High power 1200cc Bonneville twin engine with dedicated Scrambler tune
– 81 LB-FT at a low 4,500rpm and 89HP at 7,250rpm
Dual-purpose Classic and Adventure cross-over
– Commanding riding position with wide adjustable handlebars
– Superior rider comfort
– 21” front wheel, properly capable of going scrambling
Category-leading specification and state-of-the-art technology
– Öhlins long travel fully adjustable RSUs and long travel Showa forks
– Twin Brembo M50 radial monobloc callipers
– Long-travel aluminum swingarm
– Full-color TFT instruments with illuminated switches
– Up to 6 riding modes, including Off-Road Pro (XE)
– Optimized cornering ABS and optimized cornering traction control (XE)
– All-LED lighting
– Keyless ignition, single button cruise control and USB charging socket
21st century Scrambler-defining style and premium details
– Iconic silhouette with sculpted bench seat and signature high level twin exhaust
– Seamless fuel tank with brushed aluminum Monza cap
– 70+ accessories, including new Dakar inspired fly screen
Special details on the 2022-model Triumph Scrambler 1200 Steve McQueen Edition. Photo courtesy Triumph.
NEW Scrambler 1200 Steve McQueen Edition
– Individually numbered limited edition with only 1,000 available worldwide
– Unique Steve McQueen branding on the tank and handlebar clamp
– Exclusive Competition Green custom paint scheme
– New high specification with premium Scrambler accessories fitted as standard
– Certificate of authenticity features the signatures of Triumph’s CEO,
Nick Bloor and Chad McQueen, son of the legend himself, Steve McQueen.
A 2022-model Triumph Scrambler 1200 XC. Photo courtesy Triumph.
First launched in 2018, the Triumph Scrambler 1200 has rapidly become a modern Triumph icon, setting a new benchmark in its category thanks to its class-leading riding capabilities both on-road and off-road, its state-of-the-art technology, outstanding specifications and extensive customization options.
Born from an unparalleled Triumph Scrambler bloodline, including the world’s first production scramblers, raced for fun and glory by legendary racers such as Bud Ekins and Steve McQueen, the new generation has featured in multiple extreme off-road competitions, including the Mexican 1000 and the Spanish Bassella race, repeatedly demonstrating their class leading capability.
A major highlight in the success of the new generation came with it featured in the 25th James Bond movie, No Time To Die, where it received high praise from Lee Morrison, James Bond Stunt Coordinator, who said “the whole stunt team realized very quickly that these were amazing bikes”.
ALL OF THE SCRAMBLER 1200’S CLASS LEADING CAPABILITY.
The 2022 Scrambler 1200 XE and XC represent the latest generation of one of the most capable and unique motorcycles on the market, and one of Triumph’s highest specification models ever. A genuine, class-defining cross over of two motorcycle worlds, with the iconic style and character of a Triumph Modern Classic, combined with the capability and specification of a full-on adventure motorcycle.
ENHANCED FOR 2021
Updated for 2022 along with all of Triumph’s iconic modern classic line-up, the new Scrambler 1200 XC and XE features an engine evolution that maintains all the Scrambler’s renowned power and torque delivery and delivers lower emissions. Additionally, the new generation update brings a revised exhaust system that delivers improved heat distribution.
A 2022-model Triumph Scrambler 1200 XE. Photo courtesy Triumph.
FULL SPECIFICATIONS
Thrilling Performance
The Scrambler 1200 is powered by the latest evolution of Triumph’s characterful 1200cc high-power British twin. With a low inertia crank and a high compression cylinder head, plus a dedicated Scrambler tune, specifically developed to give the perfect balance of power and torque delivery for both road and off-road riding, the result is incredible torque from low down right through the rev range.
Peak torque hits 81 LB-FT at just 4,500rpm, while peak power of 89HP arrives at 7,250 rpm. The distinctive Scrambler sound, produced by the 1200cc 8-valve parallel twin engine, is delivered by the twin high level exhaust system with improved heat distribution.
Category-Dominating Specification and Capability
The 2022 Scrambler 1200 offers a category-dominating level of specification and equipment that gives these motorcycles such unique cross-over Classic and Adventure capability.
The class-leading long travel suspension delivers incredible off-road capability and ground clearance, with 250mm wheel travel front and rear, designed for riding across the toughest of terrains, as well as a supremely comfortable road riding experience. Both the Öhlins twin spring rear shocks and high specification upside down Showa front forks are fully adjustable for preload, compression and rebound damping, providing excellent comfort and control across a wide range of surfaces: from city streets right through to rocky off-road tracks.
Superior stopping-power is guaranteed by the category-leading Brembo M50 radial monobloc calipers, with twin 320mm floating discs on the front, and the Brembo caliper with single disc, on the back. Such outstanding braking power is managed by the ABS that comes as standard on both models.
Enhancing the multi-purpose character of the Scrambler 1200, high specification wire spoked wheels with aluminum rims and a side-laced design, come as standard, allowing the use of tubeless tires. Dual purpose adventure-focused Metzeler Tourance tires are the standard fit, while for more extreme off-road use, Pirelli Scorpion Rally are recommended as an approved alternative option.
The 21” front wheel contributes to the Scrambler 1200’s incredible off-road capability and commanding riding position, and gives great visibility ahead, both when commuting and off road. This, combined with the wide adjustable handlebar position and the adjustable folding foot controls on the XE model, give the Scrambler 1200 its commanding poise and stance.
Class-Leading Technology
Packed with the state-of-the art technology and rider aids, the new Scrambler 1200 XC and XE really set the benchmark. Both models feature the full-color TFT instruments offering two different design themes, each with three display layout options, allowing the rider to alter the amount of information shown, according to their preferences. The TFT start-up sequence can also be personalized with the rider’s name. The multi-functional TFT display is controlled via the intuitive and easily accessible handlebar mounted 5-way joystick and other switches, all of which are backlit for easy navigation in the dark. High and low contrast displays ensure the TFTs are readable in all lighting conditions, while the adjustable screen angle suits every rider’s height thanks to the possibility of adjusting it.
The new Scrambler 1200 is also pre-enabled for the accessory-fit My Triumph connectivity system. This allows the rider to access phone calls, operate music, use turn-by-turn navigation and manage a Go-Pro through an intuitive handlebar control and TFT interface.
Triumph’s latest generation ride-by-wire ensures responsive and precise throttle control at all times, and enables the 6 riding modes – Road, Rain, Sport, Off-Road, Off-Road Pro (available on the XE only) and Rider-Configurable. The riding modes, which can be selected while on the move (with the exception of the Off-Road and Off-Road Pro modes) adjust throttle response, traction control and ABS settings for enhanced safety and optimum performance in all riding conditions.
The Scrambler 1200 XE also features optimized-cornering ABS and optimized-cornering traction control, both of which automatically adapt the level of intervention to maintain the optimum ride, at any lean angle. These features are managed by the Inertial Measurement Unit which measures the roll, pitch, yaw and acceleration rates of the bike in order to calculate the lean angle and optimize braking and traction control, accordingly, ensuring greater rider stability.
Benefitting from lower energy consumption, increased durability and greater visibility, the Scrambler 1200 mounts LED lights front and rear, and LED indicators (market specific). The headlight incorporates LED daytime running lights, which deliver better visibility and a distinctive front-end style (market specific).
Additional high specification rider-focused technology, standard on both of the 2022 Scrambler 1200 models, includes torque-assist clutch, cruise control, keyless ignition, under-seat USB charging socket and the internal wiring ready to plug in the accessory fit heated grips, which have 3 modes and are accessed through a really intuitive button built into the left grip.
Modern Custom Style with Category-Leading Finish and Detailing
Combining Triumph’s original Scrambler DNA, with beautifully crafted modern custom style, these bikes deliver all the hallmarks of a genuine scrambler. From the iconic silhouette with its high-level twin exhaust, to the commanding height and poise, the new 2022 Scrambler 1200 XC and XE have true scrambler-defining style.
Just like every Bonneville, the engine presents the distinctive machined engine fins and black engine covers with its classic maker’s-mark triangular Triumph engine badge. These models also have a category-leading standard of finish and detailing, with authentic features such as the seamless sculpted 4.2-gallon fuel tank, with brushed aluminum Monza fuel cap and brushed stainless strap. The custom-looking bench seat with stitched ribbing and Triumph branding completes the striking silhouette while delivering the optimal riding position and comfort when tackling any type of ride.
To complete the unmistakable scrambler style, the Scrambler 1200 features minimal aluminum mudguards, sculpted side panel with brushed aluminum Scrambler 1200 badge, aluminum bash plate and wide-set handlebars. And, the Scrambler 1200 XE gets even more, with hand guards, Brembo MCS lever, gold forks and the crafted aluminum long travel swingarm, which is longer on the XE, with a high specification shot blasted and anodized finish.
The new 2022 Scrambler 1200 XC and XE are available in three colors: Cobalt Blue with a Jet Black stripe, Matte Khaki Green with a Jet Black stripe or the single tone Sapphire Black option.
70+ Genuine Triumph Accessories
The Scrambler 1200 XC and XE have a range of over 70 Genuine Triumph Accessories. These have all been designed and tested alongside the bike to the same exacting standards and allow the rider to personalize their bike with enhanced style and practicality, increased comfort, luggage, protection, and security.
The comprehensive list of accessories ranges from a new Dakar-inspired fly screen to the durable and practical rugged pannier and tank bag, all adding greater touring capability. There is also a high-level front mudguard, handlebar brace and headlight grille, plus practical options including a center stand, fog lights and heated grips.
NEW SCRAMBLER 1200 STEVE MCQUEEN EDITION
Celebrating the most famous movie star, stunt and motorcycle in history, the new Scrambler 1200 Steve McQueen Edition brings all the new-generation 2022 Scrambler 1200 XE’s category-dominating specification, go-anywhere adventure-bike capability and state-of-the-art technology, and adds its own premium Steve McQueen paint scheme and extensive list of beautiful unique details. Fully equipped with a selection of premium Scrambler accessories, fitted as standard, the McQueen Edition is now officially the highest specification Scrambler 1200 ever.
Inspired by a genuine motorcycle legend
Inspired by the original competition-spec Triumph TR6, made famous by the legendary barbed wire jump in the iconic 1963 Second World War classic “The Great Escape”, the Scrambler 1200 Steve McQueen Edition has been developed in partnership with the McQueen family. Chosen to ride in the film by McQueen, over a period-correct German military motorcycle, the Triumph TR6 used in the jump was created by a British Triumph dealer and ISDT Gold Medal racer Ken Heanes, with an ISDT suspension set-up designed for robust stunt work.
Unique limited edition
With just 1,000 Scrambler 1200 Steve McQueen Edition models available worldwide, each bike is individually numbered on the beautiful billet-machined handlebar clamp, which also features a laser etched Steve McQueen signature. For even greater exclusivity, each bike comes with a unique certificate of authenticity stating the bike’s VIN number, and carrying the signatures of Triumph’s CEO, Nick Bloor, and also Chad McQueen, son of the legend himself, Steve McQueen.
Exclusive details and finish
The unique paint scheme features a Competition Green tank with brushed foil knee pads, exquisite hand-painted gold lining, gold heritage Triumph logos, dedicated Steve McQueen tank graphic, brushed aluminum Monza cap and brushed stainless steel tank strap. The distinctive Steve McQueen Edition will also feature the aluminum high level front mudguard as standard, which, along with the rear mudguard, will also be painted in Competition Green.
In addition to the standard 1200 XE’s class leading specification, the Steve McQueen Edition comes fitted with engine protection dresser bars, which add another layer of ruggedness. Fabricated from stainless steel tubing, these have an electro-polished finish and offer additional protection to the clutch and alternator covers.
A laser cut and pressed aluminum radiator guard, with laser etched Triumph branding, also comes as standard, giving additional protection from loose stones while optimizing air flow.
The Steve McQueen Edition also features a premium brown bench seat, with stitched ribbing and Triumph branding, which further enhances the overall classic style and elegance.
Aside from movie stardom, Steve McQueen was also renowned for his Triumph Scrambler desert racing, which makes the Scrambler 1200 XE the perfect base for the exclusive edition, thanks to its class-defining capability both on and off-road. The new McQueen Edition shares all of the acclaimed XE specification and performance, including the 2022 engine and exhaust system updates. Being a genuine cross-over motorcycle, it has all the capability of a full-on adventure bike with the iconic style inherited from its legendary Scrambler lineage.
The new Scrambler 1200 Steve McQueen Edition is also pre-enabled for the accessory My Triumph Connectivity System. This allows the rider to access phone calls, operate music, use turn-by-turn navigation and manage a Go-Pro through the intuitive handlebar controls and TFT interface.
Florida, Southeast & Atlantic Championship Cup Series Featuring AMA Sanctioned ASRA Team Challenge Presented by Michelin Tire
Carolina Motorsports Park, Kershaw, South Carolina
April 10-11, 2021
By Lisa Theobald
The Championship Cup Series’ Florida/Southeast/Atlantic regions delivered a record setting event at Carolina Motorsports Park during a Twin Sprints weekend of racing with the AMA Sanctioned ASRA Team Challenge Presented by Michelin Tire. On Saturday, the bar was set by Jason Waters during the first running of the Unlimited Grand Prix race. Waters ran the fastest lap of the day on his BMW S1000RR, setting the record at 1:30.776 during the second lap of the race, as he pursued first place Vasiliy Zhulin’s Yamaha YZF-R1.
Stefano Mesa had decided to enter the second running of the Unlimited Grand Prix race on Sunday with his brand new Mesa 37 Racing Kawasaki ZX-6R, chasing down early leader, Waters, and breaking the prior day’s record with a new fastest lap time of 1:30.585. Mesa set this new record during lap four of the five-lap sprint race while chasing down the leader and cinched a second place finish on the only middleweight bike in a field of 1000’s.
Not to be content with his Unlimited Grand Prix results, Mesa was back on board the Pirelli shod ZX-6R during the Unlimited Superbike race, chasing Waters down again, catching, and passing him to take the victory in this class. Mesa not only won the race on the only 600 in the field of 1000’s, but outdid himself with an even faster lap time of 1:30.564, setting the record for the second time in one day.
Mesa kicked off the weekend with a victory in the first race of the two-day event, and wrapped it up another win in the final race of the weekend. He won a total of five of his six classes, finishing first in the GTU and Middleweight Superbike races on Saturday, and first in the Middleweight Supersport, Unlimited Superbike, and Middleweight Superbike races on Sunday. Mesa’s corral of Kawasakis can be seen contesting the Stock 1000 and Supersport classes of MotoAmerica this season, along with CCS/ASRA and WERA events all throughout the year. The Mesa 37 Racing effort is supported by Pirelli Tire, Thermosman, KWS Motorsports, K-Tech, and Mom and Dad (Karen and Mauricio Mesa).
Waters won three of his classes over the weekend, finishing first in the GTO, Unlimited Supersport, and Unlimited Grand Prix races on Sunday. Zhulin also claimed three victories in the Unlimited Superbike and Unlimited Grand Prix races on Satuday, and in the Unlimited Supersport race on Sunday.
The third round of The ASRA Team Challenge series got off to a good start with early overall race leader Team Grease Monkey Racing setting the pace for the two-hour endurance race. A red flag incident late in the race sent all competitors back into the pits for track clean up and the only restart of the race. The clock ran out with Grease Monkey Racing still in the lead and the first of three teams to complete 59 laps and take the Overall Combined and GTO class victories. Team Slopoke Rodriguez finished second overall and second in the GTO class. Team Birch Racing had run a strong second place overall for much of the race, getting edged out by Team Slopoke at the end to take third Overall and first in the GTU class. Team Kamamanawannwiny’all took home first place in the GTL class with 54 completed laps.
The Championship Cup Series Atlantic region is scheduled to compete next at New Jersey Motorsports Park April 24-25 along with the Mid-Atlantic Region in a combined event with the AMA Sanctioned ASRA Sprints Presented by Pirelli Tire.
The CCS Southeast Region will meet again with the Mid-Atlantic Region at Summit Point Motorsports Park June 12-13 for a Twin Sprints weekend. And, the Florida Region will compete next at Roebling Road Raceway along with the Southeast Region, August 21-22 for a Twin Sprints weekend combined with the AMA Sanctioned ASRA Sprints Presented by Pirelli Tire.
Race results, lap times, points standings, and information for the entire 2021 season are available online at: www.ccsracing.us.
Editorial Note: Use the scroll and zoom tools in the bottom left corner of the PDF viewer to better see all of the race results.
Pirelli Riders Crush Carolina Motorsports Park Track Record
Stefano Mesa’s NINJA ZX-6R relies on the performance of Pirelli’s New 190/60-17 DIABLO™ Superbike Rear Tire
ROME, Ga. (April 13, 2021) – It was a weekend meant for crushing absolute motorcycle track records in Kershaw, South Carolina as Stefano Mesa and Jason Waters traded turns setting the pace at Carolina Motorsports Park (CMP). The duo relied on the performance of their Pirelli DIABLO™ Superbike slicks to set the pace in the Championship Cup Series. In the end, it was Mesa who ended the weekend at the time of the lap time sheet and gave Pirelli Tire North America the brand’s third absolute motorcycle track record of the 2021 season.
“Jason [Waters] and I were pushing the pace hard all weekend,” said Mesa. “It was pretty cool to see us on two different sized motorcycles and going back and forth with one another on lap times. This one is special for me in being able to set a new track record while riding my 600. The new 190/60 tires that Pirelli recently introduced worked phenomenal all weekend long for me. I’d like to give a special shout out to Oscar [Solis] at Pirelli for the technical help and working with me to find the comfort needed to get the job done.”
The record, which was set three times throughout the weekend, was first set by road racing newcomer Waters who recorded a 1:30.776 on his BMW S1000RR on Saturday. Mesa, competing aboard a Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R, upped the pace in the Unlimited GP class on Sunday with a 1:30.585 and later that day he would return to go faster once again with a 1:30.564 in the Unlimited Superbike class. Mesa’s Kawasaki was equipped with a 120/70-17 DIABLO™ Superbike SC1 front tire and a DIABLO™ Superbike SC0 in the recently introduced 190/60-17 sizing on the rear.
“The riders managed to set an incredible pace this weekend,” said Mike Faillace, Metric Devil Moto, Pirelli Trackside Vendor. “The new 190/60 DIABLO™ Superbike was the star of the weekend. The new size was just released and it’s already helping riders go faster than they have before, which includes Stefano [Mesa]. Congratulations and a job well done to him!”
Mesa became the third different rider to earn an absolute motorcycle track record while competing on Pirelli tires in 2021. Pirelli remains dedicated to the grassroots part of the smart and continues to offer reward prizes to riders who set a new motorcycle track record while using Pirelli race compound tires.
For more information about the complete line of Pirelli motorcycle tires, please visit Pirelli.com
Redding powers to the top on day two at Aragon as he leads Ducati 1-2
It was another close battle at the top of the timesheets as testing at MotorLand Aragon concluded after two action-packed days
The last of two days of testing at MotorLand Aragon concluded on Tuesday afternoon as nine riders from the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship took to the track to refine their machines ahead of the 2021 season kicking off at the same venue in just over a month. It was Scott Redding (Aruba.It Racing – Ducati) who topped Tuesday’s times after a flurry of late laps in the afternoon session.
Track and ambient conditions were slightly warmer than yesterday with track temperatures reaching above 40 degrees Celsius throughout the afternoon, with the majority of the fastest laps of the day coming in the last hour of the test as riders left it until late to chase lap times rather than focus on race pace. Redding’s lap time of 1’48.780s was only 0.013s outside the Superpole record set by Jonathan Rea (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK) at last year’s Teruel Round. He finished half-a-second clear of teammate Michael Ruben Rinaldi as the duo battled it out for top spot; Redding laying down an impressive marker as preparations for the season gear up. Redding had wanted to focus on improving grip from his Ducati Panigale V4 R while Rinaldi had been trying to improve his machine on the exit of corners.
Michael Ruben Rinaldi (21). Photo courtesy Dorna WorldSBK Press Office.
Garrett Gerloff (GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) finished third for the second day in a row as he continues to impress heading into his second WorldSBK campaign. The three-time podium finisher spent yesterday working on race pace and had a couple of shocks to try out throughout today as he finished the test as the fastest Yamaha rider and added 73 laps to his tally for testing. Chaz Davies (Team GoEleven) continued his impressive form throughout the two-day MotorLand Aragon test with fourth place for his new team as he tried out two new components on his Ducati: new callipers from Brembo and a new shock from Öhlins. Rinaldi, Redding, Gerloff and Davies were the only riders to lap under 1’50s at MotorLand Aragon on the second day of testing. The British rider also was working on the balance of his chassis throughout the day as well as improving the rear grip through long corners as he completed 75 laps for the day.
Reigning WorldSSP Champion Andrea Locatelli (Pata Yamaha with BRIXX WorldSBK) set the fifth best lap time on day two after a late run as he was looking to take another step forward while also working on the balance of his Yamaha YZF R1 as well as looking to extract the most from his machine. The Italian rookie did have a small crash at Turn 15 in the morning session but was able to take his bike back to the pitlane. Tito Rabat’s (Barni Racing Team) day came to a slightly premature halt when he suffered from some technical issues on his Ducati Panigale V4 R, but the 2014 Moto2™ World Champion finished with the sixth best lap time and completing a mammoth 97 laps. The Spanish rider completed more laps than anyone else on day one of the test and repeated that on day two as he continued to adjust to new surroundings following his switch from MotoGP™ to WorldSBK.
Axel Bassani (Motocorsa Racing) finished in seventh place on his Ducati Panigale V4 R as the youngest rider on the 2021 grid continues to prepare for his rookie WorldSBK campaign, finishing around half-a-second from Rabat’s best time of the day although Bassani was faster in the afternoon session as he completed 80 laps for the day. Kohta Nozane (GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) finished the day in eighth place, just a tenth away from Bassani, as the reigning Japanese superbike champion continued to adjust to a brand-new circuit and completed 58 laps. The WorldSBK field was rounded out by Christophe Ponsson (Alstare Yamaha) with the French rider completing only 20 laps in the four-hour afternoon session, with 57 laps in total.
WorldSBK unofficial results from day 2
1.) Scott Redding (Aruba.It Racing – Ducati) 1’48.780, 80 laps
2.) Michael Ruben Rinaldi (Aruba.It Racing – Ducati) 1’49.205s, 85 laps
3.) Garrett Gerloff (GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) 1’49.439s, 73 laps
4.) Chaz Davies (Team GoEleven) 1’49.775s, 75 laps
5.) Andrea Locatelli (Pata Yamaha with BRIXX WorldSBK) 1’50.257s, 66 laps
6.) Tito Rabat (Barni Racing Team) 1’50.518s, 97 laps
7.) Axel Bassani (Motocorsa Racing) 1’51.146s, 80 laps
8.) Kohta Nozane (GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) 1’51.277s, 58 laps
9.) Christophe Ponsson (Alstare Yamaha) 1’52.269s, 57 laps
More, from a press release issued by Aruba.it Racing Ducati:
Positive feelings for Scott Redding and Michael Rinaldi at the end of two days of testing at Motorland Aragon
The Aragon private test has come to an end, with the Aruba.it Racing – Ducati team concluding two days of fruitful work at the Motorland circuit.
Scott Redding and Michael Ruben Rinaldi (86 and 88 laps completed respectively over the two days) continued their development work on their Ducati Panigale V4 R, obtaining extremely useful information ahead of the first round of the 2021 WorldSBK season, scheduled for the end of May at the Motorland circuit in Aragon.
After a first day ended with Chaz Davies, Micheal Rinaldi and Scott Redding in the first three positions separated by only 111 thousandths of a second, in the last part of today’s session, the two riders of the Aruba.it Racing – Ducati team tested a qualifying simulation. Scott Redding (1:48.780) made the most of his qualifying tyre, finishing only 13 thousandths off the track record set by Rea (Kawasaki) last September. Michael Rinaldi had a very good pace on race tyre but didn’t manage to exploit the qualifying tyre and closed with a time of 1:49.205.
Scott Redding (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati #45)
“I’m very satisfied with the improvements we were able to make with the bike, especially during the middle part of today. I felt comfortable with the race tyre and I have to say that I had a good feeling also with the soft one, which I struggled with last year here in Aragon. With the qualifying tyre, I made a good time and this makes me very happy because I consider this circuit one of the most difficult for me. It hasn’t been an easy couple of days but the team, as always, has done a great job to find solutions to the problems that have arisen”.
Michael Ruben Rinaldi (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati #21)
“They have been two very productive days because we have improved the bike and also the feeling. If I have to be honest I think I have improved my riding style and I am very satisfied with the work we have done. The race pace isn’t bad but we need to improve with the new tyre because I can’t get the best out of it in the first few laps. I can’t wait to be at Navarra for the next test: a new track that I don’t know. We will have intense work to do “.
More, from a press release issued by Barni Racing:
The Barni Racing Team concluded the last two-days test before the WorldSBK 2021 season start
Aragon (SPA) 13th April 2021. The Barni Racing Team concluded two intense days of testing at Motorland Aragon circuit, Spain, where the WorldSBK 2021 season will start next 21st/23rd May.
Tito Rabat worked hard with the whole team to improve his feeling with his Ducati Panigale V4 R, testing lots of new components in different areas of the bike: a new tank cover to improve ergonomics, a new layout of the SC-Project exhaust with a shorter terminal, and new brake calipers.
At the end of the two days the Spanish rider’s best lap time is 1’50.518, set in today’s morning session. That time placed Tito sixth in the combined standings, a result conditioned by a technical problem in the afternoon session that prevented Rabat to mount the qualifying tire and lower the time.
Tito Rabat
“All the components we have tested in these two days have given improvements on the bike setup, but for some reason or another I couldn’t make the pace I wanted. When the time to put the soft tyre came, as all the others did, we had to stop.”
Marco Barnabo, Team Principal
“We are working hard because vibrations that Tito feels need to be eliminated. This prevented him from riding as he would like. Trying to solve the problem we had to make more turns than any others and, at the end, when it was time to make the hot lap, a technical problem prevented us from using the qualifying tire. Although there is still a way to go, the best time does not reflect the true value of our work.”
More, from a press release issued by Pata Yamaha:
Locatelli Continues Preparations for 2021 Yamaha WorldSBK Debut
Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK racer and reigning FIM Supersport World Champion, Andrea Locatelli, continued to make steps towards his FIM Superbike World Championship debut next month, completing a day and a half of testing at MotorLand Aragón this week.
With low temperatures at the Alcañiz venue and inclement weather since the team arrived on Sunday, Locatelli completed just 52 laps on Monday afternoon, choosing to holdover a half day allocation of WorldSBK regulation testing opportunity to a later date. The 24-year-old completed a full test day of running on Tuesday with 66 laps, gaining valuable experience on his 2021 official Yamaha R1 WorldSBK.
Despite “Loka” suffering his first crash since his debut on the 1000cc machine, he bounced back impressively, showing very consistent pace and providing detailed feedback as his crew targeted improved confidence and turning in Aragón’s long, challenging corners. Improving his lap time by nearly a full second on Pirelli’s qualifying tire, Locatelli is now looking forward to the next steps in performance at his next test.
Turkish star Toprak Razgatlıoğlu was absent from the two-day test, continuing to remain in Barcelona following a further positive Covid-19 PCR test on Saturday, 10 April. Toprak remains well, without symptoms, and looks forward to getting back to work on his Yamaha R1 WorldSBK.
Yamalube YART Yamaha EWC Official rider and Yamaha WorldSBK rider coach Niccolò Canepa was able to step in at short notice to help the team test some important longer term development updates, and completed a total of 38 laps in running on Monday. Canepa has been recovering from fractures sustained to his left ankle in an endurance test crash earlier in the year.
Further updates regarding the Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK test schedule ahead of the season opener at MotorLand Aragón will be announced in due course.
Andrea Locatelli: P5 – 1’50.257 / 118 laps
Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK
“It’s a very strange feeling, because yesterday and today I had crashes – but they were so crazy strange crashes! I felt sorry for the guys and the whole team, because we were unable to continue to work on track with these disruptions – having to stop and repair the bike or use alternative parts from the test plan. In the end, we were able to ride a little bit and improve, it was not so bad in the end. A very strange test here for me, but now we will see for the next test. We can analyse everything and the goal is to stay focused and to return here with a plan to improve again.”
Niccolò Canepa: P10 – 1’53.348 / 38 laps
“I was not expecting to ride here in Aragon, and I feel sorry for Toprak, but for me it was a good chance to understand the level of my fitness after the surgery on my ankle. I was able to test something quite important, and even if I was not able to be at my normal level it was enough to work with the guys and make some quite big improvements. I was in some pain at the end of the day but even with that, it was great to ride the R1 WorldSBK machine and do some productive work.”
Paul Denning – Team Principal
Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK
“It’s still a challenging time for many people around the world, there is no reason why professional motorsports should escape those same challenges! So, not to have Toprak here is of course disappointing but the priority is that he feels perfectly well and is – as you can imagine after 14 days in isolation – absolutely ready to go! We will rearrange alternative testing here in Aragon and he will be ready for the first races of the season. We found a way to make good use of Toprak’s R1 and his crew with Nico making some fundamental development testing for Yamaha; despite his quite severe recent ankle injury he was still able to complete some important and interesting work for the future – good effort and thank you, Nico!
“Andrea used one and a half of the two days available to us here and, for the first time on the R1 WorldSBK at this tricky circuit, did a good job. It was a more complicated test than we would have liked, with a couple of unusual and rather unlucky crashes, but even so, a lot of good work was completed. We have another two days here in Aragon next week for Andrea to take the next step forward in terms of raw pace, so we hope to use those well and be fully prepared for round one of the 2021 Championship.”
More, from a press release issued by Team GoEleven:
DAY – 2, CHAZ DAVIES LEAVES ARAGON HAPPY WITH THE PROGRESS MADE!
The second day from Motorland Aragon is characterized by good weather and warm temperatures compared to day 1. The Superbike riders manage to set excellent laptimes already in the morning.
Chaz Davies, after the best time from yesterday, immediately confirmed his speed, riding below the wall of 50 at the end of the first session of the morning. The Welshman and Michael Rinaldi clash (from a distance) with fast laps, with the Italian finishing a few cents in front. The work done by Go Eleven, however, pays off and the number seven proves satisfied and convinced of the progress. The main test of the morning session is the use of the new “wing” Brembo calipers, which seem to have provided a good feeling for the rider. In the afternoon the work focuses on the soft tyres. Unfortunately, the feeling with the qualifying tyre is still not great, but we have seen a few steps forward. The work of the Team will focus on this last point in the next tests before the start of the season. The pace and confidence in the race configuration, however, are really amazing, so much so that Chaz manages to achieve fast laptimes with consistency and ease, without pushing over the limit.
The first race of the season is getting closer and closer, there are only two days of testing left, May 5th and 6th on the new entry track in the WorldSBK calendar, Navarra. There it will be essential to know the lines in what will be a real first time for all riders!
Denis Sacchetti (Team Manager):
“I’m happy with the result of this two-day test here in Aragon. If we consider that during winter, due to bad weather and Covid, we rode three days less than our rivals, our condition is better than I would have expected. The feeling with used tyres is excellent, and we have found new solutions that could give us advantages especially in the race pace. We come back from here calm and motivated, this is important!”
Chaz Davies (Rider):
“Today we had a good continuation from yesterday. It was busy, a very busy day. We had a lot to evaluate and quite a few changes on the bike, some positive some less, but overall I think we have a really clear picture on what’s working. I feel like I have a bike I can race now, if we need to race tomorrow I feel like I am ready to do that. That’s really positive, today I was comfortable, which is the most important thing. I am happy with the way all the guys have been working. Now let’s focus on the next test at Navarra!”
More, from a press release issued by GRT Yamaha:
GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team Shows Steady Progress in Aragon Test
For the final test session ahead of the beginning of the 2021 FIM Superbike World Championship, the GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team made the most out of two days of on-track activity at the Motorland Aragón circuit.
Good weather conditions helped the team work on understanding how to help the riders gain confidence with the Spanish track. Despite the nature of the track, the two GRT Yamaha riders proved to be competitive, with Garrett Gerloff always close to the top of the standings, and Kohta Nozane continuing to get better acquainted with the bike and the tyres.
Gerloff’s side of the garage focused on testing new shocks and on looking for the correct setup for the bike in preparation for the upcoming race. These two days turned out to be particularly important for the American, who did not have the outright pace to fight with the leaders in last year’s Aragón race and hopes to turn things around in 2021. When looking at the standings, the results are encouraging: fourth after the first day, with a fastest time of 1’50.527.
On Day 2 he climbed to third, and improved his lap time by more than one second, clocking in a 1’49.439. The experience gained in the 125 laps run throughout the two days will prove crucial when we come back to the this track for the first round of the championship on 21-23 May.
On the flip side of the coin, as usual in this pre-season, Nozane had a much different target than his teammate during this test. The Japanese rider is still new to the bike, the team, the tyres, but especially the circuits on the WorldSBK calendar, and is taking full advantage of every test session to become more comfortable with the whole package. Despite a difficult first approach with the track, he showed solid speed for a rookie, and ended the first day in ninth place thanks to a 1:51.711.
He further improved on the second day, but an early crash hurt his confidence with the track, and a best lap of 1:51.277, good enough for the eighth position, was the best he could manage. With the two days of testing completed, he can count on a total of 118 laps of experience at the twisty Spanish circuit.
In order to continue the preparation for the first round, the GRT Yamaha squad will already be testing again at the Aragón track next week, on Wednesday 21 and Thursday 22 April.
Garrett Gerloff: P3 – 1’49.439 / 125 laps
GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team
“I am so happy with the amount of information that we now have. We have sorted out a lot of things which allowed us to improve with different temperatures and wind conditions. The wind affects the feeling you have around the whole track, because it completely changes the braking points, as well as how fast the bike can turn into the corners, making some of them feel horrible because you cannot turn at all. That’s why the experience of these two days is so valuable. I know I have a strong bike and I’m happy with how we are working as a team.”
Kohta Nozane: P8 – 1’51.277 / 118 laps
GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team
“As I expected, it was very difficult for me to adapt to this track. This morning, though, I started off with a very good feeling, but then I messed up and crashed in Turn 2, damaging the bike. The team worked hard to fix it, but the crash affected my feeling negatively. Overall, I did not have a good pace, I expected more. But, fortunately, next week we will test here again, so I will immediately have another chance to improve.”
The Repsol Honda Team will be back to full strength for round three as Pol Espargaro is joined by Marc Marquez who makes his return from injury.
Portimao debuted on the MotoGP World Championship calendar in 2020, producing a thrilling race and earning praise from fans and riders alike. Three Hondas ended the race inside the top ten with both Takaaki Nakagami and Stefan Bradl battling for podium and top five positions for much of the race.
After falling during the Spanish GP on July 19, 2020 and breaking his right humerus, Marc Marquez has faced a lengthy recovery. The eight-time World Champion approached his recovery with complete dedication, diving into an intense physical regime with the approval of his medical team. Having assessed his condition on a Honda RC213V-S in Barcelona and Portimao, Marquez has now been approved by his medical team that he can return to racing.
One further medical check will take place at the circuit before Marquez can be given the all clear to remount his Repsol Honda Team RC213V. Although he missed the 2020 Portuguese GP, Marquez has ridden the 4.6-kilometer-long circuit on previous occasions, including on March 19th on a Honda RC213V-S. The objective for the weekend is for Marquez to return to competition and complete a successful Grand Prix without any unnecessary risks in order to have a fruitful 2021 campaign.
Pol Espargaro arrives in Portugal after two informative weekends in Qatar where he showed incredible pace aboard the Repsol Honda RC213V. Round three of the 2021 World Championship presents Espargaro with his first chance to try the Honda at a circuit other than the Losail International Circuit and after putting together a strong Portuguese race in 2020, Espargaro is looking forward to growing his understanding of the bike. Constant improvements remain Espargaro’s focus for the weekend.
Marc Marquez
“It’s a great feeling to be returning to MotoGP, with my team and my bike. We have been working very hard to achieve this, many hours in the gym and with my physio Carlos. We would have liked to have been in Qatar, but finally my doctors advised me against it and I listened to them. I have really focused on listening to the doctors and understanding my body so that I can return to MotoGP and do what I love. I have a little bit of experience in Portugal but the aim of this weekend is to work well. Step by step, we are coming back and this is very positive after a long period.”
Pol Espargaro
“We left Qatar with good information but without the results we were looking for. Portugal gives me a chance to start to understand the Honda more because it will be the first time not riding it in Losail. It’s a fun and very physical circuit to ride so I am excited to try the RC213V in Portugal. We need to continue to improve our performance and show the potential of the Honda. Of course I am also very excited to have Marc back in the box, he is the reference in MotoGP and working with him will help us to raise out level.”
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.
Toby Khamsouk. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
Toby Khamsouk
Age: 18.
Current home: Banning, California.
Current height/weight: 6’1”/150 pounds.
Current school grade level: Crafton Hills College/Freshman.
Began riding at age: 4 years.
First road race: 2012, Apple Valley, California, Minimoto USA, Minimoto, 1st place.
Current racebike: Aprilia RS 660.
Current tuners/mechanics: Phet Khamsouk (father), Michael Copolous, Matt Spicer.
Primary race series: MotoAmerica Twins Cup.
Sponsors: Robem Engineering, Precision Auto Service, HJC, RS Taichi, JP43 Training, Colorfast Industries, Polar Watches, North East Cycle Outlet.
Recent racing accomplishments (so far): 2020 season, finished 5th in MotoAmerica Twins Cup Championship (7 top-5 finishes in 12 races), finished 3rd on Suzuki GSX-R1000 in CVMA Formula Open race at Chuckwalla; 2019 season, finished 12th in MotoAmerica Junior Cup Championship (8 top-10 finishes), 2 podium finishes with CVMA, 2018 season, finished 14th in MotoAmerica Junior Cup Championship (best race finished was 5th – twice), placed 2nd in 3 CVMA Championships (350 Supersport, Junior Cup, 500 Supersport); 2017 season, placed 6th in MotoAmerica KTM RC Cup Championship (1 podium, 4 top-5 finishes); 2016 season, won Yamaha YZF-R3 Cup Novice Championship, won 2 WERA West Championships (Formula 2 Novice, Formula Three Combined).
2021 racing goals: Have fun, win MotoAmerica Twins Cup Championship.
Racing career goal: Win a MotoAmerica Superbike Championship.
Racing hero: Casey Stoner.
Favorite track: Road Atlanta.
Favorite hobbies: Off-roading, fishing.
If I wasn’t racing I would be…: Pursuing a career in Business or Marketing or helping my parents with the family business.
PETRONAS Yamaha SRT look to come back strongly in Portugal
Franco Morbidelli and Valentino Rossi begin European leg of 2021 season this weekend
This weekend will see the resumption of the 2021 MotoGP season, as action gets underway at Algarve International Circuit for the PortugueseGP. PETRONAS Yamaha Sepang Racing Team riders Franco Morbidelli and Valentino Rossi will be hoping to make progress and score valuable points at the first European round of the year.
Morbidelli showed good form at the inaugural MotoGP round at Portimão last year, starting on the front row of the grid after qualifying second and ending the race on the podium – having crossed the line third. Although the 2021 edition will be held several months earlier in the year than it was last time, the Italian will be aiming to improve on the first two races of the season and come away with a positive result at Portugal.
Team-mate Rossi will be hoping that the start of the European leg of the 2021 MotoGP championship will signal a return to the front of the grid, and allow him to put the troubles experienced in Qatar behind him. Although Valentino didn’t have the best of results at Portimão last year, he was able to recover places during the race and score valuable points (12th) – something he will be looking to improve this weekend.
Track action at the Grande Prémio de Portugal will begin for the PETRONAS Yamaha SRT pair with Free Practice 1 on Friday at 9.55am local time (4.55pm MYT), and end with Sunday’s 25-lap race at 1pm local time (8pm MYT).
Franco Morbidelli
After being on the podium in Portugal last year, I hope that we can regain our good pace and be in contention for a good result again this weekend. Every race is different though so we will have to wait and see how we are once we are out on track. We have the data from last year and we know that we were fast, so at least we will have something to use as a comparison. We are improving each race and we’ve been trying to understand what happened in the bike set up during our time in Qatar, hopefully we have found some improvements and can continue in a positive direction this weekend.
Valentino Rossi
The Portimao circuit is fantastic, it’s something different to all of the rest, but on the other side of things, it’s very difficult. It’s a track that you need a lot of time to learn and every time you race there you can improve on something. We found some new settings on the bike on the Sunday morning warm-up session of the DohaGP, which meant that I was able to maintain a better pace but we were hampered for the bad starting position. We hope that we can be stronger at this third GP and be more competitive, but also in Europe as a whole – there are a lot of tracks there that are good for me.
A grid of students at the MRA New Racers' School at High Plains Raceway. Photo by Brittany Morrison, courtesy MRA.
MRA New Racers’ School puts 50 on the track at High Plains Raceway
Byers, CO – Colorado’s Motorcycle Roadracing Association (MRA) filled the Moto Station classroom and HPR racetrack with 50 road race students over April 9-10. Friday night MRA New Racer Director Jeff Brown filled up the garage at Moto Station in Commerce City with a group of race students anxious to get on track with the club. During this classroom session, Brown took the students through such topics as physical & mental preparation, race equipment, suspension setup, and most importantly track safety.
The MRA is greatly appreciative of Moto Station & Kory Cowan for enabling the MRA to hold this uniquely large race class at their venue late into the night on Friday.
Early Saturday morning Brown met the students at High Plains Raceway for a full day of two-on-one instruction with a field of experienced racers volunteering as instructors. The coaching included line choice, body positioning, control operations, and even touched on various forms of race craft. The culmination of Saturday’s program was a series of student-only races on the full course at HPR.
In the end, all but one of the students qualified for MRA novice race licensing with a number signing up that same day. It seems the club has a good start in shaking off the difficult 2020 season with a large and enthusiastic group of new racers.
The Motorcycle Roadracing Association is dedicated to promoting safe and competitive motorcycle road racing events for enthusiasts in Colorado and the surrounding area. For more information go to http://www.mra-racing.org/.
Andrea Dovizioso on an Aprilia RS-GP at Jerez. Photo courtesy Aprilia.
APRILIA RACING AND ANDREA DOVIZIOSO CONCLUDE THREE DAYS OF WORK ON THE RS-GP IN JEREZ
NEW TEST AT MUGELLO 11 AND 12 MAY
For three days, Aprilia Racing and Andrea Dovizioso met and became acquainted at the Jerez track.
The 12th to the 14th of April were days of intense work, largely occupied by the necessary adaptation between bike and rider.
Over the three days, Andrea progressively and positively increased his familiarity with a bike that was obviously entirely new to him and he was able to begin providing quite a bit of feedback to the engineers.
With his rigour and analytical thinking, Andrea went over every aspect of the RS-GP: engine, electronics, chassis architecture and aerodynamics, providing valuable indications and addressing changes to the base package that consistently improved his performance and confidence on the bike.
A time attack was never done, both because of the many adaptations that did not permit it and because it was not one of the goals of the test.
Aprilia Racing and Andrea Dovizioso will further develop the work done in Jerez with a new test on 11 and 12 May at Mugello, so on a track with different characteristics, where Andrea will be able to ride a bike evolved according to the findings on the Andalusian track.
Andrea Dovizioso on an Aprilia RS-GP at Jerez. Photo courtesy Aprilia Racing.
ANDREA DOVIZIOSO
“Getting back in the saddle of a MotoGP bike was quite a thrill and for this I wish to thank Aprilia Racing. These were three very interesting days, dedicated largely to finding the best position on the bike. Together, we decided to do another test at Mugello in about one month and in the meantime work on a few aspects of the bike.”
ROMANO ALBESIANO – APRILIA RACING TECHNICAL DIRECTOR
“These were three very interesting days, partly because of the pleasure and interest in sharing the vision that Andrea gave us of the MotoGP bike. His experience showed us a clear and analytical method in approaching the fine tuning of the bike. We had a sincere exchange of ideas with him and we appreciated that. I hope he felt the same way about it.”
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.
David Kohlstaedt. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
David Kohlstaedt
Age: 17.
Current home: Puyallup, Washington.
Current height/weight: 5’10”/130 pounds.
Current school grade level: 11th grade.
Began riding at age: 4 years.
First road race: 2013, Shelton, Washington, WMRRA, 125GP, 3rd place.
Current racebike: Kawasaki Ninja 400.
Current tuners/mechanics: Tim O’Mahony.
Primary race series: MotoAmerica Junior Cup.
Top sponsors: Veloce Racing, 2 Fast Track Days, Fluid Suspension Science, 2Wheel Dyno Works, Arai, Sammy Halbert Racing, Dunlop, Bellevue Kawasaki, Motion Pro, Vortex Racing, Vircos, EBC, Umbrella Girls USA, Purveyors of Speed, KFG Motorsports.
Recent racing accomplishments: 2020 season, finished 6th in MotoAmerica Junior Cup Championship (best race finish was 4th, twice), placed 2nd in WMRRA Lightweight Superbike and 3rd in WMRRA Lightweight Supersport and Formula Two Championships; 2019 season, placed 30th in MotoAmerica Junior Cup Championship (best race finish 11th at Barber), won WMRRA Ultralightweight Superbike Championship (5 wins), placed 2nd in WMRRA Formula Ultra 2 Championship (3 podiums in 4 races); 2018 season, placed 7th in overall WMRRA Championship, won WMRRA Ultra-Lightweight SS Championship, finished 2nd in WMRRA 500 Superbike and Ultra-Lightweight GP Championships, set WMRRA Ultra-Lightweight class lap record at The Ridge Motorsports Park, collected 2 top-20 finishes in MotoAmerica Junior Cup races while riding a Kawasaki Ninja 300; 2015 season, named AMA Youth Rider of the Year in Flat Track.
2021 racing goals: Win MotoAmerica Junior Cup Championship.
Racing career goal: Race in the MotoGP World Championship.
Racing heroes: Sammy Halbert, Valentino Rossi
Favorite track: New Jersey Motorsports Park.
Favorite hobby: Playing guitar and piano.
If I wasn’t racing I would be…: Enjoying time with my family.
Tony Shreds at speed on a Harley-Davidson (150). Photo by Justin George, courtesy AHRMA.
AHRMA Brings “Baggers” to Willow Springs
(April 13, 2021, Elora, Tennessee) “Bagged” sport-touring cruisers will be in the spotlight during the American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association (AHRMA) 2021 Bridgestone National Historic Cup Road Race Series events at Willow Springs International Raceway during April, 2021.
“Baggers” are Harley-Davidson or Indian motorcycles with saddlebags mounted near the rear-wheel. In many motorcycle scenes, these bikes are referred to as “baggers.” The Bagger Racing League (BRL) sanctions “Bagger” competitions at road racing events throughout the United States.
The BRL rules allow for a variety of modifications to make the big bikes safe and competitive on a road racing track. However, all bikes must have the characteristic front fairings and hard-sided saddlebags.
The Baggers will join the rest of the AHRMA road racing program April 16-18 at the Streets of Willow and April 23-25 at Willow Springs Raceway both in Rosamond, California
Alex Mock, AHRMA’s Road Racing Director, recognized growing interest in this form of “alternative” road racing and selected the “Bagger” class as a Directors Choice event during the back-to-back AHRMA nationals at the Willow Springs tracks.
“With the Bagger Racing League gaining traction, we have been getting lots of requests for licensing. Since we are listed as a BRL approved sanctioned race organization we have made a limited number of entries available,” Mock said. “Bagger racers can take part in the AHRMA Academy of Racing also being held at these events, get their AHRMA racing license and then race with us all in the same weekend.
“We are honored for the Bagger Racing League to gain the support of a legacy race organization like AHRMA.” stated John Oakes with BRL. “Bagger Racing League is attracting a lot of riders to come to the track for the first time or the first time on a Bagger and other V-Twin. With the support of AHRMA we are able to give riders a great environment to get licensed, practice and race.”
“With the rise of performance baggers we’ve seen over the last 5 years, we wanted an event that could help promote those parts that make these bikes so sought after.” said Rob Buydos, Bagger Racing League™ founder.
Mock said, “Making room for the ‘Baggers’ as Director’s Choice classes will really enhance the motorcycle experience as we mix the fastest from the past with a new genre of racing. It’ll be a great showing of how motorcycle racing has evolved over the decades and is continuing to evolve. Plus, ‘Baggers’ are just flat-out, all-American cool and what better place to showcase them for the first time with AHRMA at our 25th Anniversary of the Corsa Moto Classica at Willow Springs!”
The AHRMA “Bagger” events will feature the BRL “Baggers Class” that requires saddlebags and windscreens and the “Super Hooligans” class for lightly-modified street bikes used for Dirt Track racing.
“AHRMA has a tradition of highlighting ‘alternative’ road racing machines that may not find a home with other racing groups, and giving these ‘Baggers’ a place to race is part of our culture,” said Arthur Kowitz, chairman of the AHRMA Board of Trustees. “One of my AHRMA race bikes is electric so I know first-hand how great it is to have a place to compete on a somewhat odd bike.”
AHRMA (American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to preserving, restoring and competing on historic motorcycles. With more than 3,000 members, AHRMA is the leading historic motorcycle racing group in North America and one of the largest in the world. The association’s enthusiastic membership reflects this country’s strong interest in classic bikes.
A 2022-model Triumph Scrambler 1200 Steve McQueen Edition. Photo courtesy Triumph.
NEW 2022 SCRAMBLER 1200 XC AND XE AND SCRAMBLER 1200 STEVE MCQUEEN EDITION
With all the Scrambler 1200 XC and XE’s category-dominating specification and style, incredible torque delivery and signature soundtrack, the new 2022 update delivers lower emissions whilst retaining all the thrilling performance, high power and torque that they are renowned for. Alongside the 2022 generation Scramblers comes a new beautiful and unique limited edition that celebrates the most famous movie star, stunt and motorcycle in history, with the Scrambler 1200 Steve McQueen Edition.
A 2022-model Triumph Scrambler 1200 Steve McQueen Edition. Photo courtesy Triumph.
Thrilling Performance
– New engine update with lower emissions
– New exhaust system update with improved heat distribution
– High power 1200cc Bonneville twin engine with dedicated Scrambler tune
– 81 LB-FT at a low 4,500rpm and 89HP at 7,250rpm
Dual-purpose Classic and Adventure cross-over
– Commanding riding position with wide adjustable handlebars
– Superior rider comfort
– 21” front wheel, properly capable of going scrambling
Category-leading specification and state-of-the-art technology
– Öhlins long travel fully adjustable RSUs and long travel Showa forks
– Twin Brembo M50 radial monobloc callipers
– Long-travel aluminum swingarm
– Full-color TFT instruments with illuminated switches
– Up to 6 riding modes, including Off-Road Pro (XE)
– Optimized cornering ABS and optimized cornering traction control (XE)
– All-LED lighting
– Keyless ignition, single button cruise control and USB charging socket
21st century Scrambler-defining style and premium details
– Iconic silhouette with sculpted bench seat and signature high level twin exhaust
– Seamless fuel tank with brushed aluminum Monza cap
– 70+ accessories, including new Dakar inspired fly screen
Special details on the 2022-model Triumph Scrambler 1200 Steve McQueen Edition. Photo courtesy Triumph.
NEW Scrambler 1200 Steve McQueen Edition
– Individually numbered limited edition with only 1,000 available worldwide
– Unique Steve McQueen branding on the tank and handlebar clamp
– Exclusive Competition Green custom paint scheme
– New high specification with premium Scrambler accessories fitted as standard
– Certificate of authenticity features the signatures of Triumph’s CEO,
Nick Bloor and Chad McQueen, son of the legend himself, Steve McQueen.
A 2022-model Triumph Scrambler 1200 XC. Photo courtesy Triumph.
First launched in 2018, the Triumph Scrambler 1200 has rapidly become a modern Triumph icon, setting a new benchmark in its category thanks to its class-leading riding capabilities both on-road and off-road, its state-of-the-art technology, outstanding specifications and extensive customization options.
Born from an unparalleled Triumph Scrambler bloodline, including the world’s first production scramblers, raced for fun and glory by legendary racers such as Bud Ekins and Steve McQueen, the new generation has featured in multiple extreme off-road competitions, including the Mexican 1000 and the Spanish Bassella race, repeatedly demonstrating their class leading capability.
A major highlight in the success of the new generation came with it featured in the 25th James Bond movie, No Time To Die, where it received high praise from Lee Morrison, James Bond Stunt Coordinator, who said “the whole stunt team realized very quickly that these were amazing bikes”.
ALL OF THE SCRAMBLER 1200’S CLASS LEADING CAPABILITY.
The 2022 Scrambler 1200 XE and XC represent the latest generation of one of the most capable and unique motorcycles on the market, and one of Triumph’s highest specification models ever. A genuine, class-defining cross over of two motorcycle worlds, with the iconic style and character of a Triumph Modern Classic, combined with the capability and specification of a full-on adventure motorcycle.
ENHANCED FOR 2021
Updated for 2022 along with all of Triumph’s iconic modern classic line-up, the new Scrambler 1200 XC and XE features an engine evolution that maintains all the Scrambler’s renowned power and torque delivery and delivers lower emissions. Additionally, the new generation update brings a revised exhaust system that delivers improved heat distribution.
A 2022-model Triumph Scrambler 1200 XE. Photo courtesy Triumph.
FULL SPECIFICATIONS
Thrilling Performance
The Scrambler 1200 is powered by the latest evolution of Triumph’s characterful 1200cc high-power British twin. With a low inertia crank and a high compression cylinder head, plus a dedicated Scrambler tune, specifically developed to give the perfect balance of power and torque delivery for both road and off-road riding, the result is incredible torque from low down right through the rev range.
Peak torque hits 81 LB-FT at just 4,500rpm, while peak power of 89HP arrives at 7,250 rpm. The distinctive Scrambler sound, produced by the 1200cc 8-valve parallel twin engine, is delivered by the twin high level exhaust system with improved heat distribution.
Category-Dominating Specification and Capability
The 2022 Scrambler 1200 offers a category-dominating level of specification and equipment that gives these motorcycles such unique cross-over Classic and Adventure capability.
The class-leading long travel suspension delivers incredible off-road capability and ground clearance, with 250mm wheel travel front and rear, designed for riding across the toughest of terrains, as well as a supremely comfortable road riding experience. Both the Öhlins twin spring rear shocks and high specification upside down Showa front forks are fully adjustable for preload, compression and rebound damping, providing excellent comfort and control across a wide range of surfaces: from city streets right through to rocky off-road tracks.
Superior stopping-power is guaranteed by the category-leading Brembo M50 radial monobloc calipers, with twin 320mm floating discs on the front, and the Brembo caliper with single disc, on the back. Such outstanding braking power is managed by the ABS that comes as standard on both models.
Enhancing the multi-purpose character of the Scrambler 1200, high specification wire spoked wheels with aluminum rims and a side-laced design, come as standard, allowing the use of tubeless tires. Dual purpose adventure-focused Metzeler Tourance tires are the standard fit, while for more extreme off-road use, Pirelli Scorpion Rally are recommended as an approved alternative option.
The 21” front wheel contributes to the Scrambler 1200’s incredible off-road capability and commanding riding position, and gives great visibility ahead, both when commuting and off road. This, combined with the wide adjustable handlebar position and the adjustable folding foot controls on the XE model, give the Scrambler 1200 its commanding poise and stance.
Class-Leading Technology
Packed with the state-of-the art technology and rider aids, the new Scrambler 1200 XC and XE really set the benchmark. Both models feature the full-color TFT instruments offering two different design themes, each with three display layout options, allowing the rider to alter the amount of information shown, according to their preferences. The TFT start-up sequence can also be personalized with the rider’s name. The multi-functional TFT display is controlled via the intuitive and easily accessible handlebar mounted 5-way joystick and other switches, all of which are backlit for easy navigation in the dark. High and low contrast displays ensure the TFTs are readable in all lighting conditions, while the adjustable screen angle suits every rider’s height thanks to the possibility of adjusting it.
The new Scrambler 1200 is also pre-enabled for the accessory-fit My Triumph connectivity system. This allows the rider to access phone calls, operate music, use turn-by-turn navigation and manage a Go-Pro through an intuitive handlebar control and TFT interface.
Triumph’s latest generation ride-by-wire ensures responsive and precise throttle control at all times, and enables the 6 riding modes – Road, Rain, Sport, Off-Road, Off-Road Pro (available on the XE only) and Rider-Configurable. The riding modes, which can be selected while on the move (with the exception of the Off-Road and Off-Road Pro modes) adjust throttle response, traction control and ABS settings for enhanced safety and optimum performance in all riding conditions.
The Scrambler 1200 XE also features optimized-cornering ABS and optimized-cornering traction control, both of which automatically adapt the level of intervention to maintain the optimum ride, at any lean angle. These features are managed by the Inertial Measurement Unit which measures the roll, pitch, yaw and acceleration rates of the bike in order to calculate the lean angle and optimize braking and traction control, accordingly, ensuring greater rider stability.
Benefitting from lower energy consumption, increased durability and greater visibility, the Scrambler 1200 mounts LED lights front and rear, and LED indicators (market specific). The headlight incorporates LED daytime running lights, which deliver better visibility and a distinctive front-end style (market specific).
Additional high specification rider-focused technology, standard on both of the 2022 Scrambler 1200 models, includes torque-assist clutch, cruise control, keyless ignition, under-seat USB charging socket and the internal wiring ready to plug in the accessory fit heated grips, which have 3 modes and are accessed through a really intuitive button built into the left grip.
Modern Custom Style with Category-Leading Finish and Detailing
Combining Triumph’s original Scrambler DNA, with beautifully crafted modern custom style, these bikes deliver all the hallmarks of a genuine scrambler. From the iconic silhouette with its high-level twin exhaust, to the commanding height and poise, the new 2022 Scrambler 1200 XC and XE have true scrambler-defining style.
Just like every Bonneville, the engine presents the distinctive machined engine fins and black engine covers with its classic maker’s-mark triangular Triumph engine badge. These models also have a category-leading standard of finish and detailing, with authentic features such as the seamless sculpted 4.2-gallon fuel tank, with brushed aluminum Monza fuel cap and brushed stainless strap. The custom-looking bench seat with stitched ribbing and Triumph branding completes the striking silhouette while delivering the optimal riding position and comfort when tackling any type of ride.
To complete the unmistakable scrambler style, the Scrambler 1200 features minimal aluminum mudguards, sculpted side panel with brushed aluminum Scrambler 1200 badge, aluminum bash plate and wide-set handlebars. And, the Scrambler 1200 XE gets even more, with hand guards, Brembo MCS lever, gold forks and the crafted aluminum long travel swingarm, which is longer on the XE, with a high specification shot blasted and anodized finish.
The new 2022 Scrambler 1200 XC and XE are available in three colors: Cobalt Blue with a Jet Black stripe, Matte Khaki Green with a Jet Black stripe or the single tone Sapphire Black option.
70+ Genuine Triumph Accessories
The Scrambler 1200 XC and XE have a range of over 70 Genuine Triumph Accessories. These have all been designed and tested alongside the bike to the same exacting standards and allow the rider to personalize their bike with enhanced style and practicality, increased comfort, luggage, protection, and security.
The comprehensive list of accessories ranges from a new Dakar-inspired fly screen to the durable and practical rugged pannier and tank bag, all adding greater touring capability. There is also a high-level front mudguard, handlebar brace and headlight grille, plus practical options including a center stand, fog lights and heated grips.
NEW SCRAMBLER 1200 STEVE MCQUEEN EDITION
Celebrating the most famous movie star, stunt and motorcycle in history, the new Scrambler 1200 Steve McQueen Edition brings all the new-generation 2022 Scrambler 1200 XE’s category-dominating specification, go-anywhere adventure-bike capability and state-of-the-art technology, and adds its own premium Steve McQueen paint scheme and extensive list of beautiful unique details. Fully equipped with a selection of premium Scrambler accessories, fitted as standard, the McQueen Edition is now officially the highest specification Scrambler 1200 ever.
Inspired by a genuine motorcycle legend
Inspired by the original competition-spec Triumph TR6, made famous by the legendary barbed wire jump in the iconic 1963 Second World War classic “The Great Escape”, the Scrambler 1200 Steve McQueen Edition has been developed in partnership with the McQueen family. Chosen to ride in the film by McQueen, over a period-correct German military motorcycle, the Triumph TR6 used in the jump was created by a British Triumph dealer and ISDT Gold Medal racer Ken Heanes, with an ISDT suspension set-up designed for robust stunt work.
Unique limited edition
With just 1,000 Scrambler 1200 Steve McQueen Edition models available worldwide, each bike is individually numbered on the beautiful billet-machined handlebar clamp, which also features a laser etched Steve McQueen signature. For even greater exclusivity, each bike comes with a unique certificate of authenticity stating the bike’s VIN number, and carrying the signatures of Triumph’s CEO, Nick Bloor, and also Chad McQueen, son of the legend himself, Steve McQueen.
Exclusive details and finish
The unique paint scheme features a Competition Green tank with brushed foil knee pads, exquisite hand-painted gold lining, gold heritage Triumph logos, dedicated Steve McQueen tank graphic, brushed aluminum Monza cap and brushed stainless steel tank strap. The distinctive Steve McQueen Edition will also feature the aluminum high level front mudguard as standard, which, along with the rear mudguard, will also be painted in Competition Green.
In addition to the standard 1200 XE’s class leading specification, the Steve McQueen Edition comes fitted with engine protection dresser bars, which add another layer of ruggedness. Fabricated from stainless steel tubing, these have an electro-polished finish and offer additional protection to the clutch and alternator covers.
A laser cut and pressed aluminum radiator guard, with laser etched Triumph branding, also comes as standard, giving additional protection from loose stones while optimizing air flow.
The Steve McQueen Edition also features a premium brown bench seat, with stitched ribbing and Triumph branding, which further enhances the overall classic style and elegance.
Aside from movie stardom, Steve McQueen was also renowned for his Triumph Scrambler desert racing, which makes the Scrambler 1200 XE the perfect base for the exclusive edition, thanks to its class-defining capability both on and off-road. The new McQueen Edition shares all of the acclaimed XE specification and performance, including the 2022 engine and exhaust system updates. Being a genuine cross-over motorcycle, it has all the capability of a full-on adventure bike with the iconic style inherited from its legendary Scrambler lineage.
The new Scrambler 1200 Steve McQueen Edition is also pre-enabled for the accessory My Triumph Connectivity System. This allows the rider to access phone calls, operate music, use turn-by-turn navigation and manage a Go-Pro through the intuitive handlebar controls and TFT interface.
Stefano Mesa (37) and Jason Waters (960) battle during a CCS Unlimited Superbike race at Carolina Motorsports Park. Photo by Lisa Theobald, courtesy ASRA/CCS.
Mesa and Waters Set Lap Records
Florida, Southeast & Atlantic Championship Cup Series Featuring AMA Sanctioned ASRA Team Challenge Presented by Michelin Tire
Carolina Motorsports Park, Kershaw, South Carolina
April 10-11, 2021
By Lisa Theobald
The Championship Cup Series’ Florida/Southeast/Atlantic regions delivered a record setting event at Carolina Motorsports Park during a Twin Sprints weekend of racing with the AMA Sanctioned ASRA Team Challenge Presented by Michelin Tire. On Saturday, the bar was set by Jason Waters during the first running of the Unlimited Grand Prix race. Waters ran the fastest lap of the day on his BMW S1000RR, setting the record at 1:30.776 during the second lap of the race, as he pursued first place Vasiliy Zhulin’s Yamaha YZF-R1.
Stefano Mesa had decided to enter the second running of the Unlimited Grand Prix race on Sunday with his brand new Mesa 37 Racing Kawasaki ZX-6R, chasing down early leader, Waters, and breaking the prior day’s record with a new fastest lap time of 1:30.585. Mesa set this new record during lap four of the five-lap sprint race while chasing down the leader and cinched a second place finish on the only middleweight bike in a field of 1000’s.
Not to be content with his Unlimited Grand Prix results, Mesa was back on board the Pirelli shod ZX-6R during the Unlimited Superbike race, chasing Waters down again, catching, and passing him to take the victory in this class. Mesa not only won the race on the only 600 in the field of 1000’s, but outdid himself with an even faster lap time of 1:30.564, setting the record for the second time in one day.
Mesa kicked off the weekend with a victory in the first race of the two-day event, and wrapped it up another win in the final race of the weekend. He won a total of five of his six classes, finishing first in the GTU and Middleweight Superbike races on Saturday, and first in the Middleweight Supersport, Unlimited Superbike, and Middleweight Superbike races on Sunday. Mesa’s corral of Kawasakis can be seen contesting the Stock 1000 and Supersport classes of MotoAmerica this season, along with CCS/ASRA and WERA events all throughout the year. The Mesa 37 Racing effort is supported by Pirelli Tire, Thermosman, KWS Motorsports, K-Tech, and Mom and Dad (Karen and Mauricio Mesa).
Waters won three of his classes over the weekend, finishing first in the GTO, Unlimited Supersport, and Unlimited Grand Prix races on Sunday. Zhulin also claimed three victories in the Unlimited Superbike and Unlimited Grand Prix races on Satuday, and in the Unlimited Supersport race on Sunday.
The third round of The ASRA Team Challenge series got off to a good start with early overall race leader Team Grease Monkey Racing setting the pace for the two-hour endurance race. A red flag incident late in the race sent all competitors back into the pits for track clean up and the only restart of the race. The clock ran out with Grease Monkey Racing still in the lead and the first of three teams to complete 59 laps and take the Overall Combined and GTO class victories. Team Slopoke Rodriguez finished second overall and second in the GTO class. Team Birch Racing had run a strong second place overall for much of the race, getting edged out by Team Slopoke at the end to take third Overall and first in the GTU class. Team Kamamanawannwiny’all took home first place in the GTL class with 54 completed laps.
The Championship Cup Series Atlantic region is scheduled to compete next at New Jersey Motorsports Park April 24-25 along with the Mid-Atlantic Region in a combined event with the AMA Sanctioned ASRA Sprints Presented by Pirelli Tire.
The CCS Southeast Region will meet again with the Mid-Atlantic Region at Summit Point Motorsports Park June 12-13 for a Twin Sprints weekend. And, the Florida Region will compete next at Roebling Road Raceway along with the Southeast Region, August 21-22 for a Twin Sprints weekend combined with the AMA Sanctioned ASRA Sprints Presented by Pirelli Tire.
Race results, lap times, points standings, and information for the entire 2021 season are available online at: www.ccsracing.us.
Editorial Note: Use the scroll and zoom tools in the bottom left corner of the PDF viewer to better see all of the race results.
Pirelli Riders Crush Carolina Motorsports Park Track Record
Stefano Mesa’s NINJA ZX-6R relies on the performance of Pirelli’s New 190/60-17 DIABLO™ Superbike Rear Tire
ROME, Ga. (April 13, 2021) – It was a weekend meant for crushing absolute motorcycle track records in Kershaw, South Carolina as Stefano Mesa and Jason Waters traded turns setting the pace at Carolina Motorsports Park (CMP). The duo relied on the performance of their Pirelli DIABLO™ Superbike slicks to set the pace in the Championship Cup Series. In the end, it was Mesa who ended the weekend at the time of the lap time sheet and gave Pirelli Tire North America the brand’s third absolute motorcycle track record of the 2021 season.
“Jason [Waters] and I were pushing the pace hard all weekend,” said Mesa. “It was pretty cool to see us on two different sized motorcycles and going back and forth with one another on lap times. This one is special for me in being able to set a new track record while riding my 600. The new 190/60 tires that Pirelli recently introduced worked phenomenal all weekend long for me. I’d like to give a special shout out to Oscar [Solis] at Pirelli for the technical help and working with me to find the comfort needed to get the job done.”
The record, which was set three times throughout the weekend, was first set by road racing newcomer Waters who recorded a 1:30.776 on his BMW S1000RR on Saturday. Mesa, competing aboard a Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R, upped the pace in the Unlimited GP class on Sunday with a 1:30.585 and later that day he would return to go faster once again with a 1:30.564 in the Unlimited Superbike class. Mesa’s Kawasaki was equipped with a 120/70-17 DIABLO™ Superbike SC1 front tire and a DIABLO™ Superbike SC0 in the recently introduced 190/60-17 sizing on the rear.
“The riders managed to set an incredible pace this weekend,” said Mike Faillace, Metric Devil Moto, Pirelli Trackside Vendor. “The new 190/60 DIABLO™ Superbike was the star of the weekend. The new size was just released and it’s already helping riders go faster than they have before, which includes Stefano [Mesa]. Congratulations and a job well done to him!”
Mesa became the third different rider to earn an absolute motorcycle track record while competing on Pirelli tires in 2021. Pirelli remains dedicated to the grassroots part of the smart and continues to offer reward prizes to riders who set a new motorcycle track record while using Pirelli race compound tires.
For more information about the complete line of Pirelli motorcycle tires, please visit Pirelli.com
Scott Redding (45). Photo courtesy Dorna WorldSBK Press Office.
Redding powers to the top on day two at Aragon as he leads Ducati 1-2
It was another close battle at the top of the timesheets as testing at MotorLand Aragon concluded after two action-packed days
The last of two days of testing at MotorLand Aragon concluded on Tuesday afternoon as nine riders from the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship took to the track to refine their machines ahead of the 2021 season kicking off at the same venue in just over a month. It was Scott Redding (Aruba.It Racing – Ducati) who topped Tuesday’s times after a flurry of late laps in the afternoon session.
Track and ambient conditions were slightly warmer than yesterday with track temperatures reaching above 40 degrees Celsius throughout the afternoon, with the majority of the fastest laps of the day coming in the last hour of the test as riders left it until late to chase lap times rather than focus on race pace. Redding’s lap time of 1’48.780s was only 0.013s outside the Superpole record set by Jonathan Rea (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK) at last year’s Teruel Round. He finished half-a-second clear of teammate Michael Ruben Rinaldi as the duo battled it out for top spot; Redding laying down an impressive marker as preparations for the season gear up. Redding had wanted to focus on improving grip from his Ducati Panigale V4 R while Rinaldi had been trying to improve his machine on the exit of corners.
Michael Ruben Rinaldi (21). Photo courtesy Dorna WorldSBK Press Office.
Garrett Gerloff (GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) finished third for the second day in a row as he continues to impress heading into his second WorldSBK campaign. The three-time podium finisher spent yesterday working on race pace and had a couple of shocks to try out throughout today as he finished the test as the fastest Yamaha rider and added 73 laps to his tally for testing. Chaz Davies (Team GoEleven) continued his impressive form throughout the two-day MotorLand Aragon test with fourth place for his new team as he tried out two new components on his Ducati: new callipers from Brembo and a new shock from Öhlins. Rinaldi, Redding, Gerloff and Davies were the only riders to lap under 1’50s at MotorLand Aragon on the second day of testing. The British rider also was working on the balance of his chassis throughout the day as well as improving the rear grip through long corners as he completed 75 laps for the day.
Reigning WorldSSP Champion Andrea Locatelli (Pata Yamaha with BRIXX WorldSBK) set the fifth best lap time on day two after a late run as he was looking to take another step forward while also working on the balance of his Yamaha YZF R1 as well as looking to extract the most from his machine. The Italian rookie did have a small crash at Turn 15 in the morning session but was able to take his bike back to the pitlane. Tito Rabat’s (Barni Racing Team) day came to a slightly premature halt when he suffered from some technical issues on his Ducati Panigale V4 R, but the 2014 Moto2™ World Champion finished with the sixth best lap time and completing a mammoth 97 laps. The Spanish rider completed more laps than anyone else on day one of the test and repeated that on day two as he continued to adjust to new surroundings following his switch from MotoGP™ to WorldSBK.
Axel Bassani (Motocorsa Racing) finished in seventh place on his Ducati Panigale V4 R as the youngest rider on the 2021 grid continues to prepare for his rookie WorldSBK campaign, finishing around half-a-second from Rabat’s best time of the day although Bassani was faster in the afternoon session as he completed 80 laps for the day. Kohta Nozane (GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) finished the day in eighth place, just a tenth away from Bassani, as the reigning Japanese superbike champion continued to adjust to a brand-new circuit and completed 58 laps. The WorldSBK field was rounded out by Christophe Ponsson (Alstare Yamaha) with the French rider completing only 20 laps in the four-hour afternoon session, with 57 laps in total.
WorldSBK unofficial results from day 2
1.) Scott Redding (Aruba.It Racing – Ducati) 1’48.780, 80 laps
2.) Michael Ruben Rinaldi (Aruba.It Racing – Ducati) 1’49.205s, 85 laps
3.) Garrett Gerloff (GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) 1’49.439s, 73 laps
4.) Chaz Davies (Team GoEleven) 1’49.775s, 75 laps
5.) Andrea Locatelli (Pata Yamaha with BRIXX WorldSBK) 1’50.257s, 66 laps
6.) Tito Rabat (Barni Racing Team) 1’50.518s, 97 laps
7.) Axel Bassani (Motocorsa Racing) 1’51.146s, 80 laps
8.) Kohta Nozane (GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) 1’51.277s, 58 laps
9.) Christophe Ponsson (Alstare Yamaha) 1’52.269s, 57 laps
More, from a press release issued by Aruba.it Racing Ducati:
Positive feelings for Scott Redding and Michael Rinaldi at the end of two days of testing at Motorland Aragon
The Aragon private test has come to an end, with the Aruba.it Racing – Ducati team concluding two days of fruitful work at the Motorland circuit.
Scott Redding and Michael Ruben Rinaldi (86 and 88 laps completed respectively over the two days) continued their development work on their Ducati Panigale V4 R, obtaining extremely useful information ahead of the first round of the 2021 WorldSBK season, scheduled for the end of May at the Motorland circuit in Aragon.
After a first day ended with Chaz Davies, Micheal Rinaldi and Scott Redding in the first three positions separated by only 111 thousandths of a second, in the last part of today’s session, the two riders of the Aruba.it Racing – Ducati team tested a qualifying simulation. Scott Redding (1:48.780) made the most of his qualifying tyre, finishing only 13 thousandths off the track record set by Rea (Kawasaki) last September. Michael Rinaldi had a very good pace on race tyre but didn’t manage to exploit the qualifying tyre and closed with a time of 1:49.205.
Scott Redding (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati #45)
“I’m very satisfied with the improvements we were able to make with the bike, especially during the middle part of today. I felt comfortable with the race tyre and I have to say that I had a good feeling also with the soft one, which I struggled with last year here in Aragon. With the qualifying tyre, I made a good time and this makes me very happy because I consider this circuit one of the most difficult for me. It hasn’t been an easy couple of days but the team, as always, has done a great job to find solutions to the problems that have arisen”.
Michael Ruben Rinaldi (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati #21)
“They have been two very productive days because we have improved the bike and also the feeling. If I have to be honest I think I have improved my riding style and I am very satisfied with the work we have done. The race pace isn’t bad but we need to improve with the new tyre because I can’t get the best out of it in the first few laps. I can’t wait to be at Navarra for the next test: a new track that I don’t know. We will have intense work to do “.
More, from a press release issued by Barni Racing:
The Barni Racing Team concluded the last two-days test before the WorldSBK 2021 season start
Aragon (SPA) 13th April 2021. The Barni Racing Team concluded two intense days of testing at Motorland Aragon circuit, Spain, where the WorldSBK 2021 season will start next 21st/23rd May.
Tito Rabat worked hard with the whole team to improve his feeling with his Ducati Panigale V4 R, testing lots of new components in different areas of the bike: a new tank cover to improve ergonomics, a new layout of the SC-Project exhaust with a shorter terminal, and new brake calipers.
At the end of the two days the Spanish rider’s best lap time is 1’50.518, set in today’s morning session. That time placed Tito sixth in the combined standings, a result conditioned by a technical problem in the afternoon session that prevented Rabat to mount the qualifying tire and lower the time.
Tito Rabat
“All the components we have tested in these two days have given improvements on the bike setup, but for some reason or another I couldn’t make the pace I wanted. When the time to put the soft tyre came, as all the others did, we had to stop.”
Marco Barnabo, Team Principal
“We are working hard because vibrations that Tito feels need to be eliminated. This prevented him from riding as he would like. Trying to solve the problem we had to make more turns than any others and, at the end, when it was time to make the hot lap, a technical problem prevented us from using the qualifying tire. Although there is still a way to go, the best time does not reflect the true value of our work.”
More, from a press release issued by Pata Yamaha:
Locatelli Continues Preparations for 2021 Yamaha WorldSBK Debut
Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK racer and reigning FIM Supersport World Champion, Andrea Locatelli, continued to make steps towards his FIM Superbike World Championship debut next month, completing a day and a half of testing at MotorLand Aragón this week.
With low temperatures at the Alcañiz venue and inclement weather since the team arrived on Sunday, Locatelli completed just 52 laps on Monday afternoon, choosing to holdover a half day allocation of WorldSBK regulation testing opportunity to a later date. The 24-year-old completed a full test day of running on Tuesday with 66 laps, gaining valuable experience on his 2021 official Yamaha R1 WorldSBK.
Despite “Loka” suffering his first crash since his debut on the 1000cc machine, he bounced back impressively, showing very consistent pace and providing detailed feedback as his crew targeted improved confidence and turning in Aragón’s long, challenging corners. Improving his lap time by nearly a full second on Pirelli’s qualifying tire, Locatelli is now looking forward to the next steps in performance at his next test.
Turkish star Toprak Razgatlıoğlu was absent from the two-day test, continuing to remain in Barcelona following a further positive Covid-19 PCR test on Saturday, 10 April. Toprak remains well, without symptoms, and looks forward to getting back to work on his Yamaha R1 WorldSBK.
Yamalube YART Yamaha EWC Official rider and Yamaha WorldSBK rider coach Niccolò Canepa was able to step in at short notice to help the team test some important longer term development updates, and completed a total of 38 laps in running on Monday. Canepa has been recovering from fractures sustained to his left ankle in an endurance test crash earlier in the year.
Further updates regarding the Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK test schedule ahead of the season opener at MotorLand Aragón will be announced in due course.
Andrea Locatelli: P5 – 1’50.257 / 118 laps
Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK
“It’s a very strange feeling, because yesterday and today I had crashes – but they were so crazy strange crashes! I felt sorry for the guys and the whole team, because we were unable to continue to work on track with these disruptions – having to stop and repair the bike or use alternative parts from the test plan. In the end, we were able to ride a little bit and improve, it was not so bad in the end. A very strange test here for me, but now we will see for the next test. We can analyse everything and the goal is to stay focused and to return here with a plan to improve again.”
Niccolò Canepa: P10 – 1’53.348 / 38 laps
“I was not expecting to ride here in Aragon, and I feel sorry for Toprak, but for me it was a good chance to understand the level of my fitness after the surgery on my ankle. I was able to test something quite important, and even if I was not able to be at my normal level it was enough to work with the guys and make some quite big improvements. I was in some pain at the end of the day but even with that, it was great to ride the R1 WorldSBK machine and do some productive work.”
Paul Denning – Team Principal
Pata Yamaha with Brixx WorldSBK
“It’s still a challenging time for many people around the world, there is no reason why professional motorsports should escape those same challenges! So, not to have Toprak here is of course disappointing but the priority is that he feels perfectly well and is – as you can imagine after 14 days in isolation – absolutely ready to go! We will rearrange alternative testing here in Aragon and he will be ready for the first races of the season. We found a way to make good use of Toprak’s R1 and his crew with Nico making some fundamental development testing for Yamaha; despite his quite severe recent ankle injury he was still able to complete some important and interesting work for the future – good effort and thank you, Nico!
“Andrea used one and a half of the two days available to us here and, for the first time on the R1 WorldSBK at this tricky circuit, did a good job. It was a more complicated test than we would have liked, with a couple of unusual and rather unlucky crashes, but even so, a lot of good work was completed. We have another two days here in Aragon next week for Andrea to take the next step forward in terms of raw pace, so we hope to use those well and be fully prepared for round one of the 2021 Championship.”
More, from a press release issued by Team GoEleven:
DAY – 2, CHAZ DAVIES LEAVES ARAGON HAPPY WITH THE PROGRESS MADE!
The second day from Motorland Aragon is characterized by good weather and warm temperatures compared to day 1. The Superbike riders manage to set excellent laptimes already in the morning.
Chaz Davies, after the best time from yesterday, immediately confirmed his speed, riding below the wall of 50 at the end of the first session of the morning. The Welshman and Michael Rinaldi clash (from a distance) with fast laps, with the Italian finishing a few cents in front. The work done by Go Eleven, however, pays off and the number seven proves satisfied and convinced of the progress. The main test of the morning session is the use of the new “wing” Brembo calipers, which seem to have provided a good feeling for the rider. In the afternoon the work focuses on the soft tyres. Unfortunately, the feeling with the qualifying tyre is still not great, but we have seen a few steps forward. The work of the Team will focus on this last point in the next tests before the start of the season. The pace and confidence in the race configuration, however, are really amazing, so much so that Chaz manages to achieve fast laptimes with consistency and ease, without pushing over the limit.
The first race of the season is getting closer and closer, there are only two days of testing left, May 5th and 6th on the new entry track in the WorldSBK calendar, Navarra. There it will be essential to know the lines in what will be a real first time for all riders!
Denis Sacchetti (Team Manager):
“I’m happy with the result of this two-day test here in Aragon. If we consider that during winter, due to bad weather and Covid, we rode three days less than our rivals, our condition is better than I would have expected. The feeling with used tyres is excellent, and we have found new solutions that could give us advantages especially in the race pace. We come back from here calm and motivated, this is important!”
Chaz Davies (Rider):
“Today we had a good continuation from yesterday. It was busy, a very busy day. We had a lot to evaluate and quite a few changes on the bike, some positive some less, but overall I think we have a really clear picture on what’s working. I feel like I have a bike I can race now, if we need to race tomorrow I feel like I am ready to do that. That’s really positive, today I was comfortable, which is the most important thing. I am happy with the way all the guys have been working. Now let’s focus on the next test at Navarra!”
More, from a press release issued by GRT Yamaha:
GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team Shows Steady Progress in Aragon Test
For the final test session ahead of the beginning of the 2021 FIM Superbike World Championship, the GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team made the most out of two days of on-track activity at the Motorland Aragón circuit.
Good weather conditions helped the team work on understanding how to help the riders gain confidence with the Spanish track. Despite the nature of the track, the two GRT Yamaha riders proved to be competitive, with Garrett Gerloff always close to the top of the standings, and Kohta Nozane continuing to get better acquainted with the bike and the tyres.
Gerloff’s side of the garage focused on testing new shocks and on looking for the correct setup for the bike in preparation for the upcoming race. These two days turned out to be particularly important for the American, who did not have the outright pace to fight with the leaders in last year’s Aragón race and hopes to turn things around in 2021. When looking at the standings, the results are encouraging: fourth after the first day, with a fastest time of 1’50.527.
On Day 2 he climbed to third, and improved his lap time by more than one second, clocking in a 1’49.439. The experience gained in the 125 laps run throughout the two days will prove crucial when we come back to the this track for the first round of the championship on 21-23 May.
On the flip side of the coin, as usual in this pre-season, Nozane had a much different target than his teammate during this test. The Japanese rider is still new to the bike, the team, the tyres, but especially the circuits on the WorldSBK calendar, and is taking full advantage of every test session to become more comfortable with the whole package. Despite a difficult first approach with the track, he showed solid speed for a rookie, and ended the first day in ninth place thanks to a 1:51.711.
He further improved on the second day, but an early crash hurt his confidence with the track, and a best lap of 1:51.277, good enough for the eighth position, was the best he could manage. With the two days of testing completed, he can count on a total of 118 laps of experience at the twisty Spanish circuit.
In order to continue the preparation for the first round, the GRT Yamaha squad will already be testing again at the Aragón track next week, on Wednesday 21 and Thursday 22 April.
Garrett Gerloff: P3 – 1’49.439 / 125 laps
GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team
“I am so happy with the amount of information that we now have. We have sorted out a lot of things which allowed us to improve with different temperatures and wind conditions. The wind affects the feeling you have around the whole track, because it completely changes the braking points, as well as how fast the bike can turn into the corners, making some of them feel horrible because you cannot turn at all. That’s why the experience of these two days is so valuable. I know I have a strong bike and I’m happy with how we are working as a team.”
Kohta Nozane: P8 – 1’51.277 / 118 laps
GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team
“As I expected, it was very difficult for me to adapt to this track. This morning, though, I started off with a very good feeling, but then I messed up and crashed in Turn 2, damaging the bike. The team worked hard to fix it, but the crash affected my feeling negatively. Overall, I did not have a good pace, I expected more. But, fortunately, next week we will test here again, so I will immediately have another chance to improve.”
Marc Marquez (93) riding a Honda RC213V-S at Catalunya in March. Photo courtesy Marc Marquez.
Marc Marquez back with the Repsol Honda Team
The Repsol Honda Team will be back to full strength for round three as Pol Espargaro is joined by Marc Marquez who makes his return from injury.
Portimao debuted on the MotoGP World Championship calendar in 2020, producing a thrilling race and earning praise from fans and riders alike. Three Hondas ended the race inside the top ten with both Takaaki Nakagami and Stefan Bradl battling for podium and top five positions for much of the race.
After falling during the Spanish GP on July 19, 2020 and breaking his right humerus, Marc Marquez has faced a lengthy recovery. The eight-time World Champion approached his recovery with complete dedication, diving into an intense physical regime with the approval of his medical team. Having assessed his condition on a Honda RC213V-S in Barcelona and Portimao, Marquez has now been approved by his medical team that he can return to racing.
One further medical check will take place at the circuit before Marquez can be given the all clear to remount his Repsol Honda Team RC213V. Although he missed the 2020 Portuguese GP, Marquez has ridden the 4.6-kilometer-long circuit on previous occasions, including on March 19th on a Honda RC213V-S. The objective for the weekend is for Marquez to return to competition and complete a successful Grand Prix without any unnecessary risks in order to have a fruitful 2021 campaign.
Pol Espargaro arrives in Portugal after two informative weekends in Qatar where he showed incredible pace aboard the Repsol Honda RC213V. Round three of the 2021 World Championship presents Espargaro with his first chance to try the Honda at a circuit other than the Losail International Circuit and after putting together a strong Portuguese race in 2020, Espargaro is looking forward to growing his understanding of the bike. Constant improvements remain Espargaro’s focus for the weekend.
Marc Marquez
“It’s a great feeling to be returning to MotoGP, with my team and my bike. We have been working very hard to achieve this, many hours in the gym and with my physio Carlos. We would have liked to have been in Qatar, but finally my doctors advised me against it and I listened to them. I have really focused on listening to the doctors and understanding my body so that I can return to MotoGP and do what I love. I have a little bit of experience in Portugal but the aim of this weekend is to work well. Step by step, we are coming back and this is very positive after a long period.”
Pol Espargaro
“We left Qatar with good information but without the results we were looking for. Portugal gives me a chance to start to understand the Honda more because it will be the first time not riding it in Losail. It’s a fun and very physical circuit to ride so I am excited to try the RC213V in Portugal. We need to continue to improve our performance and show the potential of the Honda. Of course I am also very excited to have Marc back in the box, he is the reference in MotoGP and working with him will help us to raise out level.”
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.
Toby Khamsouk. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
Toby Khamsouk
Age: 18.
Current home: Banning, California.
Current height/weight: 6’1”/150 pounds.
Current school grade level: Crafton Hills College/Freshman.
Began riding at age: 4 years.
First road race: 2012, Apple Valley, California, Minimoto USA, Minimoto, 1st place.
Current racebike: Aprilia RS 660.
Current tuners/mechanics: Phet Khamsouk (father), Michael Copolous, Matt Spicer.
Primary race series: MotoAmerica Twins Cup.
Sponsors: Robem Engineering, Precision Auto Service, HJC, RS Taichi, JP43 Training, Colorfast Industries, Polar Watches, North East Cycle Outlet.
Recent racing accomplishments (so far): 2020 season, finished 5th in MotoAmerica Twins Cup Championship (7 top-5 finishes in 12 races), finished 3rd on Suzuki GSX-R1000 in CVMA Formula Open race at Chuckwalla; 2019 season, finished 12th in MotoAmerica Junior Cup Championship (8 top-10 finishes), 2 podium finishes with CVMA, 2018 season, finished 14th in MotoAmerica Junior Cup Championship (best race finished was 5th – twice), placed 2nd in 3 CVMA Championships (350 Supersport, Junior Cup, 500 Supersport); 2017 season, placed 6th in MotoAmerica KTM RC Cup Championship (1 podium, 4 top-5 finishes); 2016 season, won Yamaha YZF-R3 Cup Novice Championship, won 2 WERA West Championships (Formula 2 Novice, Formula Three Combined).
2021 racing goals: Have fun, win MotoAmerica Twins Cup Championship.
Racing career goal: Win a MotoAmerica Superbike Championship.
Racing hero: Casey Stoner.
Favorite track: Road Atlanta.
Favorite hobbies: Off-roading, fishing.
If I wasn’t racing I would be…: Pursuing a career in Business or Marketing or helping my parents with the family business.
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We aim to support the widest array of browsers and assistive technologies as possible, so our users can choose the best fitting tools for them, with as few limitations as possible. Therefore, we have worked very hard to be able to support all major systems that comprise over 95% of the user market share including Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Apple Safari, Opera and Microsoft Edge, JAWS and NVDA (screen readers).
Notes, comments, and feedback
Despite our very best efforts to allow anybody to adjust the website to their needs. There may still be pages or sections that are not fully accessible, are in the process of becoming accessible, or are lacking an adequate technological solution to make them accessible. Still, we are continually improving our accessibility, adding, updating and improving its options and features, and developing and adopting new technologies. All this is meant to reach the optimal level of accessibility, following technological advancements. For any assistance, please reach out to
