Dunlop Hires Jesse Wentland As Motorcycle Test Engineer

David Swarts

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March 3, 2021

Dunlop Hires Jesse Wentland As Motorcycle Test Engineer

Dunlop hires new Motorcycle Test Engineer

Ranch Cucamonga, CA: Dunlop Motorcycle Tires welcomes former Supercross & Motocross professional rider Jesse Wentland as their new Motorcycle Test Engineer. Jesse will join the team at the Huntsville Proving Grounds located in North Alabama. After over a decade of testing numerous off -road motorcycle tires, longtime developer Clark Stiles will move to the Lead Test Engineer position. Clark believes Jesse is the best fit to help further develop Dunlop’s off-road motorcycle tires.

“Having Jesse on board will be a huge asset to our team. He is a new breed of rider and brings a lot of current experience and knowledge to the table. When I started racing all motocross bikes were 2 strokes. During my career and as I was beginning to exit my career, everything evolved over to 4 stroke motorcycles. The riding styles have also evolved a ton since I was racing. Having a younger rider like Jesse is great because he has an evolved riding style and a completely different outlook on racing. He knows the new generation riding style and has a lot of experience on current motorcycles. He is also fresh off racing professional Supercross and Motocross. His riding level is still very high, and he is still in racing shape.” – Clark Stiles

Wentland is a long-time motorcycle enthusiast. He began racing motocross at the young age of 6 years old and competed at the highest level of amateur racing throughout his childhood. After years of success in the amateur ranks, Wentland turned professional in 2012 and lived his dream until retiring from competition in 2017. Searching for his next journey in life, Jesse found the perfect landing spot.

“I am very excited about this opportunity to work for Dunlop. I always wanted to leave my mark in the sport but felt like I’d fallen short after retiring at such a young age. I grew tired of the racing lifestyle, the travel, the expense, and of course the injuries. At the time, I was ready for bigger and better things in life. I wanted to buy a house, get married, and start a family. I’d been living a normal life, working a job, and racing locally for fun when this opportunity came up. Once I heard the details and what my role at Dunlop would be, it sounded like the perfect fit for me. Since retiring in 2017 I’d been struggling with feeling like the knowledge and skills I’d gained from racing had gone to waste. This new opportunity will allow me to apply those skills and knowledge every day and help develop the best tires on the market. This is a true blessing in disguise, and I couldn’t be more thankful for the opportunity at a time I needed it most.” – Jesse Wentland

“Jesse officially started his role last month and will focus on the dirt side of development
while his coworker Taylor Knapp focuses on the street side of things.” – Clark Stiles

The Huntsville Proving Grounds is owned by Sumitomo Rubber USA and is a full-service tire testing facility. The Proving Grounds sits on an efficient used 68 acres in which Sumitomo utilizes to evaluate their Dunlop brand motorcycle tires and Falken branded passenger car and light truck tires.

About Dunlop Motorcycle Tires

Dunlop is the largest supplier of original equipment and replacement motorcycle tires in the U.S.A. For more information, visit: www.DunlopMotorcycleTires.com

Moto2: Roberts 2nd, Beaubier 9th During Testing In Portugal (Updated)

David Swarts

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March 3, 2021

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Moto2: Roberts 2nd, Beaubier 9th During Testing In Portugal (Updated)

Australian Remy Gardner was unofficially quickest overall while Americans Joe Roberts and Cameron Beaubier were second and ninth, respectively, during day two of a private Moto2 and Moto3 test at Algarve International Circuit in Portimao, Portugal.

Gardner, the pole-sitter and Moto2 race winner at Algarve in 2020, did a 1:42.962 today on his new Red Bull KTM Ajo Kalex.

Gardner’s fastest lap during the 2020 race in Portugal was a 1:42.504, which is the standing Moto2 Race Lap Record and Circuit Best Lap Record.

Roberts, who finished seventh in the Moto2 race in Portugal last season, was second-quickest Wednesday (and third-best overall) with a lap time of 1:43.344 on his new Italtrans Racing Kalex.

“It went very well,” Roberts exclusively told Roadracingworld.com. “This is my first test of the year with the team. It went super good right from the beginning. I found a good feeling right away. We were trying not to get in over our heads because of the tricky conditions with the wind and quite a lot of crashes and stuff.

“We were able to put in some good lap times, but it was unfortunate. In the last session, I was trying to do a good time and they kept red flagging it. Every time I put on a new tire there was a red flag. So, it was a little frustrating with that because we weren’t able to show where we were with out lap time. But, overall, I’m really, really happy. I have a good feeling with the team already, I have a good understanding with my crew chief, and I’m feeling really confident heading to Qatar.”

Cameron Beaubier (6) in action in Portugal. Photo courtesy American Racing Team.

Beaubier, who was riding at Algarve for the first time ever, was fifth at one point Wednesday but ended up ninth on the day (and 11th overall) with a time of 1:44.041 on his American Racing Team Kalex.

“I’m glad I got to ride here before we race because the track is pretty crazy!” Beaubier told Roadracingworld.com. “A lot of elevation that you carry a lot of speed over. And just in general, it was good to get laps in on this Moto2 bike and actually make some changes on myself and the bike.

“Today was kind of windy, but I was going pretty good after sleeping on it. I was fifth before lunch, which was cool, but then I tucked the front braking on an outside curb. The guys fixed the bike and I rode some more and was able to go a little faster towards the end, but so did everyone else. It’s impressive how fast these guys are. I’m looking forward to more.”

The Moto2 field is set to have an official test March 19-21 at Losail International Circuit, in Qatar. The FIM MotoGP World Championship, including Moto2, is set to begin at the same track March 26-28.

FIM Moto2 World Championship Private Test

Algarve International Circuit

Portimao, Portugal

March 3, 2021

Day Two Unofficial Lap Times (all using Triumph engines and Dunlop tires):

Remy Gardner, Australia (Kalex), 1:42.962
Joe Roberts, USA (Kalex), 1:43.344
Jorge Navarro, Spain (Speed Up), 1:43.516
Xavi Vierge, Spain (Kalex), 1:43.542
Fabio Di Giannantonio, Italy (Kalex), 1:43.625
Marcel Schrotter, Germany (Kalex), 1:43.872
Raul Fernandez, Spain (Kalex), 1:43.887
Tony Arbolino, Italy (Kalex), 1:43.938
Cameron Beaubier, USA (Kalex), 1:44.041
Marcos Ramirez, Spain (Kalex), 1:44.046
Marco Bezzecchi, Italy (Kalex), 1:44.078
Hector Garzo, Spain (Kalex), 1:44.087
Stefano Manzi, Italy (Kalex), 1:44.142
Lorenzo Dalla Porta, Italy (Kalex), 1:44.295
Yari Montella, Italy (Speed Up), 1:44.338
Celestino Vietti, Italy (Kalex), 1:44.588
Somkiat Chantra, Thailand (Kalex), 1:45.407
Ai Ogura, Japan (Kalex), 1:47.433

Overall Unofficial Testing Lap Times (all using Triumph engines and Dunlop tires):

Remy Gardner, Australia (Kalex), 1:42.962
Marco Bezzecchi, Italy (Kalex), 1:43.322
Joe Roberts, USA (Kalex), 1:43.344
Jorge Navarro, Spain (Speed Up), 1:43.516
Xavi Vierge, Spain (Kalex), 1:43.542
Fabio Di Giannantonio, Italy (Kalex), 1:43.625
Marcos Ramirez, Spain (Kalex), 1:43.641
Marcel Schrotter, Germany (Kalex), 1:43.721
Raul Fernandez, Spain (Kalex), 1:43.887
Tony Arbolino, Italy (Kalex), 1:43.938
Cameron Beaubier, USA (Kalex), 1:44.041
Hector Garzo, Spain (Kalex), 1:44.087
Stefano Manzi, Italy (Kalex), 1:44.142
Lorenzo Dalla Porta, Italy (Kalex), 1:44.206
Celestino Vietti, Italy (Kalex), 1:44.297
Yari Montella, Italy (Speed Up), 1:44.338
Ai Ogura, Japan (Kalex), 1:44.645
Nicolo Bulega, Italy (Kalex), 1:44.710
Somkiat Chantra, Thailand (Kalex), 1:44.981

More, from a press release issued by Federal Oil Gresini Moto2 Team:

TOP SIX FOR DIGGIA AT PORTIMAO

It was surely a positive test for Fabio Di Giannantonio and Federal Oil Gresini Moto2 who finished in the higher part of the timesheet a two day test marked by strong winds and plenty of work. With around 80 laps under his belt, the Italian rider logged a personal best lap time of 1’43.625 which confirmed the excellent feeling with the Kalex machine also on the challenging Portuguese track.

A trip to forget, on the other hand, for Nicolò Bulega who completed only few laps on day one and was then forced to be quarantined for a false positive Covid test result in the team. He and his crew will have to rethink and plan again their schedule in Qatar, the venue hosting the last preseason test of 2021.

FABIO DI GIANNANTONIO #21 (1’43.625 – 80 LAPS)

“It’s been hard these two days. We did a lot of work, as there were plenty of things to do and try. We need to gel with together a bit better, but we’re improving each and every day. We’re getting more competitive and that’s very positive. We’re still a bit far from the top, but I think the three days at Losail will be crucial also considering that in the the last part of today we have found a direction with the setup that looks interesting. I’m charged up.”

NICOLÒ BULEGA #11 (1’44″697 – 38 giri)

“Unfortunately for one reason or another I rode very little, so I have very little data. Its a shame because there was a lot of work to do and the level of the competition is extremely high, so we need to keep our heads down in Qatar and make up for the time lost.”

Honda Unveils 2022 CRF450 Motocross And Off-Road Models

David Swarts

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March 3, 2021

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Honda Unveils 2022 CRF450 Motocross And Off-Road Models

TORRANCE, Calif. – American Honda today announced the return of the CRF450R motocrosser for 2022, as well as its five siblings that specialize in a variety of applications. The clear point of reference when it comes to motocross, Honda’s CRF450R currently leads the 2021 AMA Supercross series, at the hands of Team Honda HRC’s Ken Roczen, while the CRF450RWE adds top-shelf performance features for the most demanding customers. The CRF450RX opens things up a bit to closed-course off-road racing, whereas the CRF450X expands horizons to everything up to and including the deserts of Baja. Meanwhile, the CRF450RL adds the possibility of linking trails and dirt roads via public roads. Finally, there’s the CRF450R-S, a great option for value-focused motocrossers. Add them up, and it’s a collective of dirt bikes that covers the needs of motorcycle enthusiasts who enjoy getting dirty in any number of ways.

“Back when we first expanded our CRF450 lineup for the 2019 model year, our goal was to offer application-specific models that would put Red Riders at the front of the pack no matter what their preferred means of dirt-bike riding,” said Brandon Wilson, Manager of Advertising, Experiential and Sports at American Honda. “Three years later, the family has expanded and improved, and the 2022 collection is better than ever. We expect these bikes to continue to run at the front of the pack, in the dirt and on dealer showrooms.”

CRF450R

Honda’s CRF450R continues to be the powersports industry’s benchmark motocrosser, carrying Team Honda HRC’s Ken Roczen to three 2021 AMA Supercross wins so far and, together with its limited-edition CRF450RWE sibling, posting the most U.S. sales of any MX model. For 2022, the legendary machine gets an updated ECU for enhanced drivability, particularly in the lower rev ranges, while suspension valving is revised for better holdup and improved balance. “Razor Sharp Cornering” continues as the model’s theme, with three main focus areas: power, handling and consistency. Unsurprisingly for the platform campaigned by Roczen and teammate Chase Sexton, as well as reigning FIM World Champion Tim Gajser, the CRF450R continues to draw lessons from Honda Racing Corporation’s global race program.

Color: Red

MSRP: $9,599

Available: May

CRF450RWE

For those who demand the absolute best when it comes to motocross performance, the premium CRF450RWE (“Works Edition”) is based on the legendary CRF450R, but with a long list of elite-level upgrades based on the machines in the Team Honda HRC factory race shop. As is the case with the CRF450R, this model gets an updated ECU and suspension valving, for improved drivability and balance, respectively. The CRF450RWE is the clear benchmark with it comes to setting low lap times.

Color: Red

MSRP: $12,399

Available: August

CRF450RX

The CRF450RX is well-suited for closed-course off-road competition such as GNCC, WORCS and NGPC, as proven at the national-championship level by SLR Honda and JCR Honda. Based on the motocross-focused CRF450R, it has off-road-specific features like dedicated ECU and suspension settings (both of which are updated for 2022, for improved drivability and balance), plus an 18-inch rear wheel, aluminum side stand, handguards and a 2.1 gallon fuel tank. The combination yields a race machine that’s ready to chase arrows and ribbon wherever it finds them.

Color: Red

MSRP: $9,899

Available: July

CRF450X

“Legendary.” “Dominant.” “Unbeatable.” In discussions of motorcycle racing in Baja, those are just some of the suitable adjectives for the CRF450X, which earned Honda’s record 30th Baja 1000 victory last November, at the hands of SLR Honda riders Mark Samuels, Justin Morgan and Justin Jones. A record 14 of those wins have come aboard the CRF450X, firmly establishing it as the ultimate desert-racing weapon, but it’s also a great trail machine, thanks in part to its 50-state year-round off-road-legal status, plus off-road appropriate features like a side stand, 18-inch rear wheel, headlight, sealed chain and six-speed transmission.

Color: Red

MSRP: $9,799

Available: June

CRF450RL

By its very nature, dual-sport riding demands many things from a motorcycle, a fact that presents challenges for engineers. That’s what makes Honda’s adaptable CRF450RL so amazing: based on the legendary CRF Performance platform, it has a 449cc Unicam® engine, twin-spar aluminum frame and premium, long-travel suspension that make it a stellar performer off-road. At the same time, it’s surprisingly smooth and comfortable when linking those experiences via pavement, thanks to a quiet muffler, a vibration-damping urethane-injected swingarm and a wide-ratio six-speed transmission. Throw in Honda’s legendary durability, and it’s no wonder this road-legal dirt bike has made a name for itself in the dual-sport world.

Color: Red

MSRP: $9,999

Available: May

CRF450R-S

The off-road category has seen exceptional growth in recent years, creating strong demand for 450cc motocross machines. While many riders demand the latest technology, a large number of customers also see price as a top priority, but without making a big sacrifice in terms of performance. By offering both the advanced CRF450R and the CRF450R-S (based on the 2020 CRF450R platform), Honda addresses the needs of both groups. The same platform raced by Team Honda HRC’s Ken Roczen in 2020, the CRF450R-S features Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC), which maximizes rear-tire hookup to keep the Unicam engine’s horsepower driving the bike and rider forward.

Color: Red

MSRP: $8,599

Available: September

MotoGP: Rossi Talks About Joining PETRONAS Yamaha SRT (Video)

David Swarts

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March 3, 2021

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MotoGP: Rossi Talks About Joining PETRONAS Yamaha SRT (Video)

VIDEO: Valentino Rossi – I’m very proud to be part of PETRONAS Yamaha Sepang Racing Team

Valentino Rossi on joining Malaysian squad PETRONAS Yamaha SRT for 2021

In this video interview, new-signing Valentino Rossi shares his thoughts on his 2021 Yamaha YZR-M1, his targets for 2021, what it means to join PETRONAS Yamaha Sepang Racing Team and what he expects from having a team-mate that he knows well…

What do you think about your new bike with PETRONAS Yamaha Sepang Racing Team colours?

I’m really happy to see my new bike for 2021. For me it’s a new experience and I can’t wait for the first test and the start of the championship in Qatar. The colour changed for me too, and I really like the livery of the bike, the new leathers, gloves, boots and my new helmet. It will be an awesome package: We are ready to start.

What are your personal targets for 2021?

My targets for 2021 are to be competitive, fight to win races, fight to achieve podiums and also fight for a good position in the World Championship standings at the end of the season. We are all very focused on our targets to make the best we can.

What does it mean to you to be part of PETRONAS Yamaha SRT?

I’m very proud to be part of PETRONAS Yamaha Sepang Racing Team. It’s a new challenge for me. This is a very young team, but in the last two years they have already been really competitive. The bike will remain the same, my Yamaha YZR-M1, and I think it will be a funny season.

What do you expect for this year with such a familiar team-mate for you?

Franco and I are a very interesting couple of riders. We have a good relationship; we know each other very well. We are always training and challenging together on different bikes so this year we will also do this from the same garage.

How excited are you to be getting on to the PETRONAS Yamaha SRT YZR-M1 very soon?

I have a long career and already spent a lot of years with Yamaha and the M1; I can’t wait to work together with the Yamaha engineers and the whole team to try to improve the performance of the bike.

After eight consecutive years in the Yamaha Factory Team, what changes and similarities do you expect for this 2021 with PETRONAS Yamaha SRT?

It’s a long personal story with the Yamaha Factory Team, split in two parts – since 2004 -, so it’s almost a life together! I don’t expect a lot of differences because the bike is the same and we will have the full support from the factory. At the same time, it is a new team, new people in the garage, new mechanics – so a new experience for me. The team has a lot of motivation and I will give my maximum to achieve the best possible result at the end of the season together.

American Flat Track: NBC Sports Broadcast Schedule Released

David Swarts

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March 3, 2021

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American Flat Track: NBC Sports Broadcast Schedule Released

NBC SPORTS ANNOUNCES 2021 AMERICAN FLAT TRACK SCHEDULE ON NBCSN

NBCSN to Present Coverage of All 17 Progressive AFT Races, Beginning with the Volusia Half-Mile Doubleheader on Saturday, March 20; TrackPass on NBC Sports Gold to Livestream Every Race of 2021 Season

STAMFORD, Conn. – NBC Sports — “the Home of Motorsports” — today announced its Progressive American Flat Track schedule for the 2021 season on NBCSN. The network will present coverage of all 17 races of the most historic form of American motorcycle racing, beginning with the Volusia Half-Mile I and II from Volusia Speedway Park in Barberville, Fla., on Saturday, March 20, at Noon ET.

“American Flat Track is a staple of our motorsports programming on NBCSN and we are very excited to continue our partnership in 2021,” said Rene Karfias, senior manager, programming, NBC Sports.

Featuring the world’s fastest motorcycle racers on dirt battling it out at speeds approaching 140 mph, Progressive AFT is the most prestigious and most competitive form of dirt track motorcycle racing in the world. The circuit is returning to NBCSN for a fifth consecutive season in 2021.

“The growth of American Flat Track over the last few years has been fueled and greatly assisted by our partnership with NBC,” said Michael Lock, CEO of Progressive AFT. “We are very excited with the great scheduling of the Series for the 2021 season on NBCSN and the biggest ‘bang for the buck’ in motorsports, delivered by the live streaming package available on TrackPass.”

In addition to the 17 weekend premieres on NBCSN, TrackPass on NBC Sports Gold will provide exclusive live streaming coverage of every race throughout the 2021 season. With the AFT package on TrackPass on NBC Sports Gold, users gain unlimited access to AFT content live and on-demand on any device for only $1.99 a month. For more details, click here.

Below is the schedule for Progressive AFT’s premiere telecasts on NBCSN (subject to change):

Date – Race – Time (ET)

Sat., March 20 – Volusia Half-Mile I – Noon

Sat., March 20 – Volusia Half-Mile II – 1 p.m.

Sun., May 2 – Atlanta Super TT – 10:30 p.m.

Sat., May 29 – Texas Half-Mile – 8 p.m.

Sun., June 6 – Chicago Half-Mile – 5 p.m.

Sat., June 26 – OKC Mile I – Noon

Sat., June 26 – OKC Mile II – 1 p.m.

Sat., July 3 – Lima Half-Mile – 5 p.m.

Sun., August 8 – DuQuoin Mile – 11 p.m.

Sun, August 15 – Port Royal Half-Mile – 10 p.m.

Sun., August 22 – New York Short Track – 9:30 p.m.

Sun., August 29 – Peoria TT – 8 p.m.

Sun., September 12 – Springfield Mile I – 9 p.m.

Sun., September 12 – Springfield Mile II – 10 p.m.

Sun., September 26 – TBA Round 15 – 11 p.m.

Sun., September 26 – TBA Round 16 – Midnight

Sat., October 9 – Charlotte Half-Mile – 10:30 p.m.

Progressive American Flat Track is part of NBC Sports’ “Home of Motorsports” programming throughout 2021, spanning NASCAR, INDYCAR, IMSA, Mecum Auctions, Monster Energy Supercross, the Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship, MotoGP, Monster Jam, Dakar Rally, and more.

The 2021 Progressive AFT season kicks off with a Volusia Half-Mile doubleheader event at Volusia Speedway Park on Friday, March 12 and Saturday, March 13, 2021. Tickets for this season-opening extravaganza are on sale now at https://store.americanflattrack.com/ebooking/ticket/view/id/3321/#raceSchedule.

For more information on Progressive AFT visit https://www.americanflattrack.com.

To score the latest gear for the Progressive American Flat Track fan, visit our official merchandise store at https://store.americanflattrack.com.

Honda Officially Announces All-New 2022 Grom

David Swarts

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March 2, 2021

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Honda Officially Announces All-New 2022 Grom

2022 Honda Grom Features Bold, Easily Customizable Design

All-new Grom joined by updated CB1000R and NC750X, as well as returning ADV150

March 2, 2021 — TORRANCE, Calif.

American Honda today announced new versions of three models, as well as the returning ADV150, demonstrating the company’s commitment to a fun, well-rounded on-road lineup. The announcement is headlined by the Grom, as the hugely fun miniMOTO model gets a thorough makeover for the 2022 model year. Introduced in some markets last fall and now bound for the U.S., the third-generation Grom is influenced by Honda’s “fresh and fun” design theme. Striking new bodywork facilitates customization, while a peppy new engine features fifth gear, for added performance across a wide range of riding situations. Not lost in the redesign are the Grom’s amazing gas mileage, low operating and maintenance costs, attention to detail and Honda’s legendary reliability.

An updated 2021 CB1000R builds on its Neo Sports Café looks with a more aggressive stance and blacked-out appearance, while the venerable 2021 NC750X benefits from practical and performance-minded updates. Meanwhile, the returning 2022 ADV150 boasts the same performance as before, but with a new look thanks to its Candy Rose Red color scheme.

“With 750,000-plus units sold worldwide, the Grom has spawned an impressive subculture of fun-seekers, while also supporting a healthy aftermarket of accessories and performance parts,” said Brandon Wilson, Manager of Advertising, Experiential and Sports at American Honda. “This model has always been all about fun, and this all-new version’s easy customization and increased comfort should only help spark continued growth of that passionate Grom community. We look forward to seeing how riders and the aftermarket enjoy this popular model.”

The 2022 Honda Grom and ADV150, and the 2021 Honda NC750X and CB1000R will be in dealers in May.

A 2022-model Honda Grom ABS. Photo courtesy American Honda.

2022 Grom

The Grom rounds an important corner this year, the iconic miniMOTO model emerging from its extensive makeover as a more refined, easily customizable machine. A more-efficient engine now has a fifth gear for increased versatility, while a flatter seat accommodates varying rider heights. The fuel capacity is increased from 1.45 gallons to 1.59, for added fun between stops, and a full-featured LCD display makes it easy to take it all in. A special SP color option has stylish graphics and a yellow shock spring, plus a gold finish for the wheels, brake calipers and fork. An ABS version is available as well.

Colors

Grom: Queen Bee Yellow; Matte Black Metallic; Pearl White (SP)

Grom ABS: Candy Blue

MSRP

Grom: $3,399

Grom ABS: $3,599

A 2021-model Honda NC750X. Photo courtesy American Honda.

2021 NC750X

An exciting blend of practical- and performance-minded features increase the NC750X’s capabilities for 2021. Already applauded for its versatility, the model’s engine now has more power, plus a higher redline and revised gearbox ratios for exciting response at low rpm. Throttle-by-wire opens the door to three riding modes and a refined Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) system, while also helping the bike maintain its standout fuel efficiency. Paired to these performance gains is an all-new frame and sharper styling, plus practical improvements like a larger up-front storage compartment, 30 mm lower seat height, more-protective windscreen and LED lighting. Available in both manual-transmission and DCT versions.

Color: Grand Prix Red

MSRP

NC750X: $8,199

NC750X ABS: $8,999

A 2021-model Honda CB1000R Black Edition. Photo courtesy American Honda.

2021 CB1000R Black Edition

Honda’s CB1000R is engineered to stand out from the crowd, its designers having moved away from the supersport-derived big-naked formula and focused instead on a well-rounded package that blends form and function. That approach continues for 2021, the CB1000R featuring a tighter, sleeker design and more aggressive stance, along with revised settings for a smoother power delivery. New, eye-catching features include a 5-inch, thin-film-transistor (TFT) display, reshaped headlight, restyled wheels and a USB charging socket under the seat. The model’s name also gets a “Black Edition” suffix to match the blacked-out components, and it also features a wind screen, passenger-seat cover and quick shifter.

Color: Graphite Black

MSRP: $12,999

A 2022-model Honda ADV150. Photo courtesy American Honda.

2022 ADV150

The Honda ADV 150 is proof that scooters can be more than capable city commuters. Fully embracing Honda’s “City Adventure” concept, which has spawned rugged-yet-capable scooters, this lightweight, compact model pairs practical features like an automatic transmission, two-stage adjustable windscreen and under-seat storage with rugged styling that inspires fun backroads adventures. For model-year 2022, there’s also a new color option.

Color: Candy Rose Red

Pricing: $4,299

American Flat Track: Moto Anatomy Announces 2021 Sponsors

David Swarts

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March 2, 2021

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MOTO ANATOMY ANNOUNCES 2021 PARTNERS

Johnny Lewis aligns with top brands for 2021 American Flat Track Season

Milwaukee, Wis. March 2, 2021: Moto Anatomy x Royal Enfield rider Johnny Lewis is proud to announce his partners for the 2021 American Flat Track (AFT) season including supporters from his 2020 AFT campaign, which saw Lewis capture Royal Enfield’s first-ever modern-day racing victory at the season finale in Daytona.

2020 marked the first year of development for the Moto Anatomy X Royal Enfield team, Lewis is looking to build upon the success his Moto Anatomy x Royal Enfield team earned at the conclusion of the year. To aid in his 2021 season, Lewis will receive support from multiple top brands in the motorcycling category including SENA, Rekluse and Beringer Brakes. Other notable partners involved in Lewis’ AFT program include Saddlemen, ODI, Lightshoe, Team Lawant and Cometic Gaskets.

“It has been a busy off-season for the team testing and planning for the year ahead,” said Johnny Lewis, Moto Anatomy x Royal Enfield racer. “We have continued the development of the Twins FT and have also aligned ourselves with a handful of world-class brands who are backing our 2021 efforts. On behalf of myself and Royal Enfield, we’re thrilled to have them on board and excited for the upcoming season.”

Lewis will continue working on several programs for Royal Enfield such as Slide School presented by Moto Anatomy and the BUILD TRAIN RACE flat track program as a mentor. SENA, Rekluse and Beringer Brakes will support Lewis’ AFT program while Saddlemen, ODI, Lightshoe, Team Lawant and Cometic Gaskets will support the Lewis across all Royal Enfield programs.

The 2021 Progressive American Flat Track season kicks off on March 12 for the Volusia Half-Mile in Barberville, Fla. Lewis will return to competition with the Royal Enfield Twins FT after extensive testing throughout the offseason. Lewis’ last race in Florida yielded a victory and second place at Daytona AFT finale, and he looks to carry that momentum into the 2021 season opener at Volusia.

Be sure to follow @MotoAnatomyxRoyalEnfield on Instagram to stay up to date on the latest results and insights from the track. The team will continue to release short films documenting each round, which can be seen on Royal Enfield North America’s YouTube channel throughout the season.

About Royal Enfield

The oldest motorcycle company in continuous production in the world, Royal Enfield made its first motorcycle in 1901. A division of Eicher Motors Limited, Royal Enfield has created the mid-size motorcycle segment in India with its unique and distinctive modern classic motorcycles. With its manufacturing base in Chennai, India, Royal Enfield has been able to grow its production rapidly against a surge in demand for its motorcycles. Royal Enfield is a leading player in the global middleweight motorcycle market.

Royal Enfield North America (RENA) is headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and is developing a growing network of more than 125 dealers in North America, including the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico. RENA currently offers the Himalayan and the all-new 650 Twins: INT 650 and Continental GT 650 motorcycles along with a range of genuine motorcycle accessories and apparel.

The Moto Anatomy x Royal Enfield team is supported by Harris Performance, SENA, Beringer Brakes, Solid Performance, Rekluse, Lightshoe, Cometic Gaskets, EVS, ODI, Just 1, Tucker, Saddlemen, S&S Cycle, Team Lawant, Quayle Construction and Goon Glass and Rubber.

For more information on Royal Enfield North America, please visit www.RoyalEnfield.com/us/en/, www.Instagram.com/RoyalEnfield_NA, www.Facebook.com/RoyalEnfieldNorthAmerica.

MotoE: Aegerter Quickest On Day One Of Testing At Jerez

David Swarts

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March 2, 2021

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MotoE: Aegerter Quickest On Day One Of Testing At Jerez

Aegerter pips Granado as MotoE™ opens the throttle on 2021

The first official track action of the season is here as the FIM Enel MotoE™ World Cup hits Jerez for testing

Tuesday, 02 March 2021

Day 1 of the first FIM Enel MotoE™ World Cup test of 2021 has drawn to a close at the Circuito de Jerez-Angel Nieto and it’s one of 2020’s fastest men on top: Dominique Aegerter (Dynavolt Intact GP). The Swiss rider put in a 1:48.478 to edge out fellow veteran Eric Granado (One Energy Racing) as the two ended the day only a tenth and a half apart at the top, with Alessandro Zaccone (Octo Pramac Racing) taking third as he showed some top pace on Tuesday.

Both Aegerter and Granado set their fastest laps in the third and final session of the day in a dry but slightly cloudy Andalucia, as did all but two of the riders on track. 17 of the 18-strong grid are in attendance for the three-day outing, with only Mattia Casadei (Ongetta SIC58 Squadra Corse) sidelined as the Italian suffered an injury in training.

There are nine rookies on the grid this season and the fastest debutant on Day 1 really hit the ground running. Spanish youngster Fermin Aldeguer (Openbank Aspar Team), who will be only 16 on his race debut in MotoE™, was fourth fastest overall and impressed from the outset – even ending the day ahead of a very familiar name as 2019 Cup winner Matteo Ferrari (Team Gresini MotoE) was forced to settle for fifth.

Ferrari also crashed on Tuesday but was unhurt and unfazed, heading up a close trio of experienced runners. Lukas Tulovic (Tech 3 E-Racing) slotted into sixth as the German is back to full force following his injury troubles at the end of last season, with 2020 Cup winner Jordi Torres (Pons Racing 40) in seventh but the duo within a tenth of Ferrari as the timesheets got incredibly close. Xavier Cardelus (Avintia Esponsorama Racing), Maria Herrera (Openbank Aspar Team) and second fastest rookie Andrea Mantovani (Team Gresini MotoE) completed the top ten.

There was also more to see than just the lap times, with teams trying a new post-session cooling system using dry ice. The grid will be back out on Wednesday for more, stay tuned for more updates across social media and on motogp.com.

MotoAmerica: Robem Fielding Three-Rider Twins Cup Team

David Swarts

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March 2, 2021

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MotoAmerica: Robem Fielding Three-Rider Twins Cup Team

Khamsouk, De Keyrel, Schultz to race for Robem Engineering in 2021

Trio of pro racing veterans to campaign Aprilia RS 660 in MotoAmerica Twins Cup, Suzuki GSX-R1000 in N2/WERA Endurance series

HAMILTON, Ohio — Robem Engineering will sport a three-rider lineup for the 2021 racing season, as Toby Khamsouk, Kaleb De Keyrel and Hayden Schultz will race aboard the team’s Aprilia RS 660s in MotoAmerica Twins Cup. The trio of riders – all of whom finished in the top five in the 2020 MotoAmerica Twins Cup standings – also will race a Suzuki GSX-R1000 in the N2/WERA Endurance by Dunlop series.

Last year marked the first time the Ohio-based Robem Engineering team took part in every round of the MotoAmerica Twins Cup, and both of its riders finished in the top five in the class standings. With its new rider lineup for 2021, the team’s sights are firmly set on claiming its first MotoAmerica No. 1 plate.

Team manager Carl Price also will take to the track aboard an Aprilia RS 660 at select MotoAmerica rounds. Price has taken part in MotoAmerica Twins Cup races each season since the class was launched in 2018.

Khamsouk, who resides in Banning, Calif., raced for the team in 2020. He finished fifth in the class standings last season, with seven top-five finishes in 12 rounds.

“I had a great season with Robem last year, and I want to continue our progress together and make 2021 an even better season than 2020,” Khamsouk said. “I expect the Aprilia to be easy to adapt to, and I’m looking forward to riding the bike in full race trim.”

Toby Khamsouk testing on a new Aprilia RS 660 streetbike. Photo courtesy Robem Engineering.

Newcomers De Keyrel, of White Bear Lake, Minn., and Schultz, of Fayetteville, Ark., bolster the team’s championship hopes. De Keyrel finished runner-up in the 2020 MotoAmerica Twins Cup, scoring three wins and nine podium appearances.

“Last season, I was doing a lot on my own — traveling around in a van from round to round and getting things set up each weekend,” De Keyrel said. “By joining Robem Engineering, I’ll be able to spend more time on my physical training during the season, as well as focus more on racing and doing what I need to do to win. I rode a stock version of the RS 660 at Circuit of the Americas, and I really liked the way it handled. My goal is to win a championship and put the Aprilia at the front of the field this year.”

Schultz finished third in the Twins Cup standings in 2020 with eight podium finishes.

“Robem is a really strong team, and I knew that working with them would give me the best chance to fight for a championship,” Schultz said. “The Robem bikes did really well last year, and I believe the team’s technical personnel will have the Aprilia ready for me to battle at the front with. My goal is to win a championship, and I expect to be contending for the podium or better at each round.”

Hayden Schultz testing on a new Aprilia RS 660 streetbike. Photo by CaliPhotography, courtesy Robem Engineering.

The team received its Aprilia RS 660 machines in January, and Robem Engineering founder Matthew Spicer has been hard at work in his Hamilton, Ohio, shop designing and fabricating race-specific parts for the Italian middleweight sportbike. The team’s racing efforts help Spicer further develop Robem Engineering’s products, which are then made available for sale to racers across the nation.

Robem Engineering’s technical partners for 2021 include The Center for Plastic Surgery, Velocity Calibrations, K-Tech Suspension, Dunlop, Woodcraft Technologies, Dymag, Vesrah, DNA Filters, Magura USA, Sara Chappell Photos, NGK/NTK, Blud Lubricants, Millennium Technologies and SC-Project.

Follow Robem Engineering on social media at https://www.facebook.com/RobemEng and on Instagram at @robemengineering, or visit the company’s website at https://www.robemengineering.com/.

American Flat Track: D&D Cycles Signs Gauthier For Production Twins

David Swarts

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March 2, 2021

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American Flat Track: D&D Cycles Signs Gauthier For Production Twins

Pensacola, FL – D&D Cycles, of Pensacola, Fla., signs former AFT Singles National Champion and former factory Harley-Davidson rider Dalton “Go-Time” Gauthier to contend for 2021 American Flat Track Production Twins National Championship.

Armed with three Vance & Hines-powered Harley-Davidson XG750’s at his disposal, Gauthier is ready to get back to business and add another national title to his resume.

D&D Cycles along with Gauthier saw a fairytale season unfold in 2019, capturing the American Flat Track Singles National Championship on their Husqvarna FC450 powered by Vance & Hines in a comeback story for the ages, which led to a factory ride with Harley-Davidson for 2020. With Harley-Davidson scaling back their efforts for 2021, D&D again put forth an effort to see Gauthier back on track and with V&H support will contest the full championship.

“It has been one of my greatest racing pleasures working with, coaching, and being like an older brother to Dalt,” team owner Rob Mclendon says. “He is truly one of the greatest natural talents I have ever seen twist a throttle, and while we weren’t necessarily ready to field a team again, we couldn’t see such a talented rider sitting on the sidelines. We picked up the phone, spoke with Terry Vance about our plans and luckily he apparently really likes us because he quite simply said, ‘You have our support’ and we really wouldn’t be able to race without the entire Vance & Hines Family behind us. Of course, racing isn’t cheap, so we really had to do some outside the box thinking and we really have put a solid effort together. We are like a big happy racing family that all shares one simply goal of winning everything we can wherever we can.”

Asked for comment from the man himself, Terry Vance, Chairman Vance & Hines Racing Inc. said, “Being able to work with an exceptional talent like Dalton is a true privilege for me. I am hoping to see great things from him.”

This will mark the third season of the Dalt & Rob show, which has carried a lot of success across the country. “I love racing with Rob and D&D,” said Gauthier. “They have been like a second family, and along with Vance & Hines, I feel I am on a very good team and we have a really high chance of winning races and hopefully the championship. It is never easy, but I love a challenge and have no problem battling for everything. I know I can get it done with these Harley’s and rise back to the top. My job isn’t finished and I am more motivated than ever to see that Number 1 plate back on my bikes!”

D&D Cycles is one of the oldest Triumph Motorcycle dealerships in the United States, along with Vespa, Piaggio, MV Agusta, Kymco, in business since 1980, D&D has won multiple Championships in flat track (Amateur & Professional) as well as road racing as one of the factory Triumph teams in 2013-2015.

We would like to thank the following partners for helping to make our 2021 season come to fruition:

D&D Cycles – Pensacola

Vance & Hines

Bell Helmets

Harley-Davidson

Dodge Bros Racing

Parts Unlimited

Drag Specialties

Donley Racing

Certified Plumbing Sewer & Gas

Seafood Atlantic

Saddleman

Motion Pro

Lightshoe

LanesWorld

EagleRider Pensacola

Lonesome Losers

Tagger Designs

Just Live CBD

Fredericksburg Eagle Hotel

Defy All Odds

Lonestar Beef Jerky

Dunlop Hires Jesse Wentland As Motorcycle Test Engineer

March 3, 2021

Dunlop hires new Motorcycle Test Engineer

Ranch Cucamonga, CA: Dunlop Motorcycle Tires welcomes former Supercross & Motocross professional rider Jesse Wentland as their new Motorcycle Test Engineer. Jesse will join the team at the Huntsville Proving Grounds located in North Alabama. After over a decade of testing numerous off -road motorcycle tires, longtime developer Clark Stiles will move to the Lead Test Engineer position. Clark believes Jesse is the best fit to help further develop Dunlop’s off-road motorcycle tires.

“Having Jesse on board will be a huge asset to our team. He is a new breed of rider and brings a lot of current experience and knowledge to the table. When I started racing all motocross bikes were 2 strokes. During my career and as I was beginning to exit my career, everything evolved over to 4 stroke motorcycles. The riding styles have also evolved a ton since I was racing. Having a younger rider like Jesse is great because he has an evolved riding style and a completely different outlook on racing. He knows the new generation riding style and has a lot of experience on current motorcycles. He is also fresh off racing professional Supercross and Motocross. His riding level is still very high, and he is still in racing shape.” – Clark Stiles

Wentland is a long-time motorcycle enthusiast. He began racing motocross at the young age of 6 years old and competed at the highest level of amateur racing throughout his childhood. After years of success in the amateur ranks, Wentland turned professional in 2012 and lived his dream until retiring from competition in 2017. Searching for his next journey in life, Jesse found the perfect landing spot.

“I am very excited about this opportunity to work for Dunlop. I always wanted to leave my mark in the sport but felt like I’d fallen short after retiring at such a young age. I grew tired of the racing lifestyle, the travel, the expense, and of course the injuries. At the time, I was ready for bigger and better things in life. I wanted to buy a house, get married, and start a family. I’d been living a normal life, working a job, and racing locally for fun when this opportunity came up. Once I heard the details and what my role at Dunlop would be, it sounded like the perfect fit for me. Since retiring in 2017 I’d been struggling with feeling like the knowledge and skills I’d gained from racing had gone to waste. This new opportunity will allow me to apply those skills and knowledge every day and help develop the best tires on the market. This is a true blessing in disguise, and I couldn’t be more thankful for the opportunity at a time I needed it most.” – Jesse Wentland

“Jesse officially started his role last month and will focus on the dirt side of development
while his coworker Taylor Knapp focuses on the street side of things.” – Clark Stiles

The Huntsville Proving Grounds is owned by Sumitomo Rubber USA and is a full-service tire testing facility. The Proving Grounds sits on an efficient used 68 acres in which Sumitomo utilizes to evaluate their Dunlop brand motorcycle tires and Falken branded passenger car and light truck tires.

About Dunlop Motorcycle Tires

Dunlop is the largest supplier of original equipment and replacement motorcycle tires in the U.S.A. For more information, visit: www.DunlopMotorcycleTires.com

Moto2: Roberts 2nd, Beaubier 9th During Testing In Portugal (Updated)

March 3, 2021

American Joe Roberts (16) in action Wednesday at Algarve International Circuit. Photo courtesy Italtrans Racing. — American Joe Roberts (16). Photo courtesy Italtrans Racing.