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2021 Trackday Directory: Submit Schedules And Photos By February 1

Roadracing World Publishing is now requesting schedule and photo submissions from trackday organizers and riding school operators for the 2021 season to put in Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology magazine and the 2021 Roadracing World Trackday Directory annual edition.

All schedule submissions should include: the name of your school or trackday organization, your schedule (including exact dates, correct track names and locations, and the track layout being used that day, if applicable), and full contact information for consumers.

Schedules submitted will be published in the Calendar section of Roadracing World magazine and the Events calendar section of Roadracingworld.com as soon as possible after they are received.

For trackday and school organizations and schedules to be listed in Roadracing World’s 2021 Trackday Directory annual edition, however, we need your schedule and the following information by February 1, 2021:

School or Trackday Organization Name:
Physical or Mailing Address, (Street address, city, state abbreviation, zip code):
Phone Number:
FAX Number (optional):
Website Address:
Email Address:

(Select one answer for each question)

  1. Events Run Rain or Shine: Yes or No
  2. Coolant: Antifreeze OK or No Antifreeze Allowed
  3. Headlight & Taillight: Tape or Disconnect or Tape and Disconnect
  4. Mirrors & Signals: Tape or Remove
  5. License Plate: OK or Remove
  6. Safety Wire: Some Required or None Required
  7. Sidestand: OK or Remove
  8. The minimum age to participate is: ?

Please e-mail schedule/calendar and Trackday Directory listing information to [email protected].

Even if your 2021 schedule is not finalized, please respond to us and send whatever information you can so that you will not be left out of the Trackday Directory annual. Provisional schedules or dates listed as provisional are allowed.

There is no cost to be listed in Roadracing World’s Trackday Directory annual edition, but we can’t post your information if we don’t receive it in time. As a result, late submissions or incomplete submissions may not be published.

Again, the deadline to submit is February 1, 2021.

 

The full cover of the 2020 Roadracing World Trackday Directory.

 

If you’ve already submitted your schedule for inclusion in the Calendar section of Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology, great! But this is not enough information for an entry in the Trackday Directory. Please submit the information requested above to be included in the once-per-year Roadracing World Trackday Directory or call us to do minor updates to the information we published in the 2020 Trackday Directory.

If you have any doubt about what you have or have not sent in or if it was received, please contact us.

As always, we are also requesting trackday organizers and school operators to submit digital photos of their events and groups in action – on and off the track — for possible publication in the 2021 Trackday Directory. This is a great way to publicize your events and spotlight some of your members at no cost to you, but we need you to help us help you.

Digital photos must be in-focus, free from any watermarks or graphics, and high-resolution, which means a minimum of 300 dpi/ppi or 3000 pixels wide at 3 inches. The best way to submit these photos is with a file transfer program like Hightail or Dropbox, which are free to download and use on a limited basis. Emailing the photos in small batches also works.

Photos must be accompanied by information to be used to write a caption. This includes the name of the track and information to credit the photographer, etc. By submitting a photo or photos, you certify that you own the submitted material and that you give us (Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.) permission to publish it in Roadracing World magazine and/or post it on Roadracingworld.com, without paying you (or anybody else) any money.

For additional information, e-mail [email protected] or call (909) 654-4779.

Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup: 2021 Schedule Revised

Pop into Portugal – Early Kick-Off for revised Rookies Cup Calendar

Portimão is the venue for the first two Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup races on April 17th and 18th. Our preseason test takes place at the same venue over three days, April 9th, 10 & 11th.

In our 15th season we therefore continue our tradition of being part of the first European Grand Prix of the year.

The extensive 14 race series for our KTMs then sweeps across Europe, finishing back on the Iberian Peninsula at Motorland Aragón on September 11th & 12th.

As the pandemic difficulties continue we are deeply appreciative of Dorna’s inclusion of the Rookies Cup in their Grand Prix schedules as we are of the support from all our other partners.

 

Provisional Calendar

Test – April 9-11 Portimão – Portugal

Races 1-2 April 17-18 Portimão – Portugal

Races 3-4 May 1-2 Jerez – Spain

Races 5-6 May 29-30 Mugello – Italy

Races 7-8 June 19-20 Sachsenring – Germany

Races 9-10 July 10-11 KymiRing – Finland

Races 11-12 August 14-15 Red Bull Ring – Austria

Races 13-14 September 11-12 Aragon – Spain

 

Entry List

5 Tatchakorn Buasri (Thailand)

7 Daniel Muñoz (Spain)

8 Eddie O‘Shea (Great Britain)

9 Freddie Heinrich (Germany)

13 Sho Nishimura (Japan)

14 Cormac Buchanan (New Zealand)

19 Scott Ogden (Great Britain)

21 Demis Mihaila (Italy)

23 Alex Millan (Spain)

24 Ivan Ortolá (Spain)

28 Matteo Bertelle (Italy)

29 Harrison Voight (Australia)

34 Mario Aji (Indonesia)

39 Bartholomé Perrin (France)

42 Soma Görbe (Hungary)

48 Gabin Planques (France)

55 Noah Dettwiler (Switzerland)

58 Luca Lunetta (Italy)

64 David Muñoz (Spain)

77 Filippo Farioli (Italy)

78 Jakob Rosenthaler (Austria)

80 David Alonso (Colombia)

89 Marcos Uriarte (Spain)

92 Diogo Moreira (Brasil)

95 Collin Veijer (Netherlands)

96 Daniel Holgado (Spain)

MotoAmerica: Ward Hoping To Get Back On Track In 2021

Well on the way to recovery, Bradley aims to be back on the MotoAmerica grid in ’21

Whilst most MotoAmerica regulars are gearing up for a racing return in the not-too-distant future, Britain’s Bradley Ward is still on the road to recovery but is hopeful of being back on track at some point during 2021.

Ward who shot to prominence in the Superstock 1000 series in 2019, was equally impressive on his Superbike debut last season before disaster struck and an injury following an early season incident ruled him out of contention.

The prognosis for Ward is good, and he is now up and about and back behind the wheel of his race transporter which is being used by Muc-Off Honda in the 2021 Supercross series.

Bradley is pleased to provide his supporters and the fans of MotoAmerica an update on the injury, together with his plans for the year ahead, which whether he races or not, will see him back in the paddock with the ADR Fly Motorsport squad.

Bradley Ward: “I have been really busy the last few weeks and my schedule is only going to get busier. I am on the road driving my truck for a team within the Supercross series who have stickered it up in their livery. It’s been great and really given me something to focus on. It’s not easy, I am still struggling on my feet a little bit but I am building up the muscles in my legs and slowly but surely making progress so I can’t complain really. My wrist is probably 75% there, I have a lot of the mobility back but it’s still quite weak. My leg is pretty free from pain and I have a way to go to build muscle after all the tears to my hamstring and quads. My leg was broken quite badly, and it still swells after a couple of hours of being up and about. I have another scan in a couple of weeks so we will see what they say. I am desperate to be back on the grid, but I will have to see what they say. As far as plans go, I have organised and agreed with Dave (Anthony), that as soon as I am fit and able, I will be back on the bike so I will keep focused on the recovery and in the meantime make sure all the parts and everything that’s needed is organised. Regardless of whether I am ready to race when the season starts, I will still be in the paddock playing a big part of my ADR team, potentially driving the truck, and doing everything I can to keep my sponsors happy – they have been amazing. Don’t get me wrong I want to be back on the Superbike grid more than anything, but I won’t rush it. I would like to say a massive thanks to everyone at MotoAmerica for all their support over the last months, and for standing by my side for when I am ready to get back on track in the series. As I said, I am a bit wiser than I was in the past and so I won’t come back too soon to risk further injury or to just ride around at less than 80% but I will be back!”

Bradley continues to be active on his social media channels – Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram – links to all three are embedded within this release. He has also just updated his website which is now even more interactive than ever.

For more information go to bradleywardracing.com

MotoGP: Gresini’s Condition Continues To Improve

UPDATE ON FAUSTO GRESINI’S CONDITIONS 

Slow but continuous improvements on the state of health of Fausto Gresini, always hospitalized in the intensive care unit of the Maggiore Carlo Alberto Pizzardi hospital in Bologna.

Here is today’s s statement by Dr Nicola Cilloni: “Fausto’s clinical condition slowly continues to improve. For more than a week now without fever, rehabilitation is making progress every day, even if the path ahead is still long. He is still helped by the breathing machine, but he is also working on it, trying to recover the strength to do it alone. He manages to make video calls and to be seen by Nadia. The next steps will be the functional recovery of breathing and nutrition”.

Further updates in the following days.

MotoGP: Guintoli On Developing The Suzuki GSX-RR

HOW WE MADE THE WORLD CHAMPION GSX-RR

Team Suzuki MotoGP Test Rider Sylvain Guintoli talks about his role in helping develop the World Championship-winning Suzuki GSX-RR.

“Winter is a time to relax and enjoy time with my family, especially as my wife and I have just welcomed a new addition to our brood! And it’s really nice to take some time off, although I’m really hoping that things can slowly get back to normal this year!

“When you’re at home, without the races, it’s also a good time to reflect and look back at happy memories. I’ve been thinking about the fantastic success of Suzuki in 2020 and remembering how my role with Team Suzuki Ecstar began.

“I joined in 2017 after Alex’s wrist injury and I stepped in to replace him. At the time I had started doing some development with the GSX-R in BSB (British Superbikes) with Suzuki, and Davide Brivio called me because I had past MotoGP experience.

“For me it was a great opportunity because usually when you go out of MotoGP, you can’t get back in, so it was really nice to be back riding a GP bike. My first thoughts were that it was just brilliant to experience riding a bike like that again and first of all you just need to have a bit of fun on the bike, and then you have to get into the technical stuff and understanding the bike, trying to go faster.

“My first impression of the GSX-RR was that it was very well balanced, but there was an issue with the engine that year. That balance has become a sort of ‘theme’ around the GSX-RR, and that’s actually the most important thing in GP racing because at the end of the day these bikes are too powerful for the tracks and too powerful for the grip level, so the key is to manage what you have and make the most it.

“We worked hard and one of the biggest improvements came between 2017 and 2018; the engine was much better and all the tools that were put in place to try and counteract the engine issue were still all really useful and beneficial, because we had taken a deep dive into the bike and that allowed us to understand even more about the GSX-RR. Then after that it was all about the little steps; aerodynamics, engine braking and stability. Just chipping away and making small adjustments – all those little things add up. The following year, in 2019, the bike was getting better and better and so were the results.

“Then last year, in 2020, the big difference was the new chassis, which I tried for the first time at the pre-season Sepang test; it was a big improvement! It allows the riders to brake harder, which was a big plus. Joan brakes late and he brakes hard, so it really helped him. And the new engine in 2020 was also better in a few areas, so we did take a big step last year. Historically Suzuki has always built bikes that handle well and corner well; it’s in the DNA and this 2020 GSX-RR was sort of the ultimate in that way.

“I love seeing the work put into action so I watch every session, even when I’m at home, and last year it was more exciting than ever seeing Joan and Alex perform so well! I’m quite geeky about it because after each track session I like to analyse the timesheets and all the info. I’m really interested and it helps me to understand the different riding styles and strengths of Suzuki’s riders and pinpoint what they need….and apart from that I’m just a big fan of motorbike racing!

“Usually I would do about 10,000km of testing but in 2020 it was much harder because of the pandemic. This year, in 2021, it looks like the schedule will change again and it will be hard to know about travel restrictions and how much we’re able to test. Last year I couldn’t’t go to Japan and that was difficult, and we heard a few days ago that the Sepang test is cancelled so we need to wait and see what’s possible. But there is also a development freeze which is good for us because we’re very happy with the bike, although we’re keen to continue working for the future.

“Things will be a little different for Team Suzuki Ecstar this year because Davide has left the team. I enjoyed working with him and I’m grateful to him for welcoming me and sharing some great memories. For now I’m training and keeping fit, which is crucial to be able to handle a full day of testing, so I do a lot of cycling and go on adventures. I’m ready to get back on the GSX-RR as soon as possible!

Happy New Year everyone!”

AOD: Building A 2020 Yamaha YZF-R1, In The January Issue

Featured In the January 2021 issue of Roadracing World: 

        “Back in the late 90s and early oughts my race team, Army of Darkness, brought at least one new motorcycle every year to feed to the maw of WERA endurance racing. Back then, a season consisted of 10 rounds spread out around the country and our oversized (649cc) Suzuki GSX-R600 engines only lasted for about 16 hours of race use, which meant we were either racing, or rebuilding top ends, pretty much every weekend of the year.

         “After seven championships it became harder for us to be successful existentialists and give meaning to the experience, so we took a step back in 2006. Unfortunately, in 2009, we were gifted a pair of endurance R1s. That led to a slow relapse of racing preparation and podiums…”

 

—Army Of Darkness: Building A Yamaha YZF-R1 Endurance Bike Part 1, By Sam Q. Fleming

 

The personified ongoing existential crisis (why was man born, if not to race?) that is the Army of Darkness is back, this time with Yamaha YZF-R1s. Read the latest exploits of one of the most famous endurance racing teams in U.S. road racing history—it’s all in the new issue of Roadracing World!

 

Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology is THE definitive source for motorcycle racing, riding, and tech information.

PREVIEW the January 2021 Issue of Roadracing World!

Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology magazine is available in print and digital formats. SUBSCRIBE NOW . Or call (909) 654-4779, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time, Monday through Friday. Read the December 2020 issue of Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology with your online subscription. Log in HERE

Available at Cycle Gear and other motorcycle retailers.

Visit www.roadracingworld.com daily for breaking news and events.

Like us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/roadracingworld

Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com @roadracingworld

Follow us on Instagram https://instagram.com @roadracing_world

 

Daytona 200: Michael Dunlop Entered In Classic Race

The current entry list for the 79th Daytona 200, operated by the American Sportbike Racing Association (ASRA) under sanction of the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA), includes 63 riders.

Famed International road racer Michael Dunlop is entered on a Kawasaki ZX-6R. Dunlop, age 31, is a 19-time race winner at the Isle of Man TT, winning on a variety of machinery from 650cc Twins to 600cc Supersports to 1000cc Superbikes.

The Daytona 200 race is scheduled to run March 13, 2021, on the 3.51-mile infield road course at Daytona International Speedway, in Daytona Beach, Florida.

Entries will be accepted up until the start of the event weekend on March 12.

The 79th Daytona 200 was originally scheduled to run March 14, 2020, but it was postponed and later cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

79th Daytona 200 Entry List

American Honda Partners With USMCA

American Honda Joins USMCA 

Temecula, California – Today, the United States Motorcycle Coaching Association (USMCA) is proud to announce the official addition of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. as a Motorcycle Partner for 2021.

As a longtime provider of Rider Education, American Honda and its top-of-class Rider Education platform, facilities, and instructors are now officially aligned with USMCA’s mission of engaging with new and returning riders to the sport in hopes of supporting lifetime riders and skills.

“American Honda has a history of building lifetime customers,” stated Robie Heilbron, Head of Honda Rider Education. “And in this spirit, Honda Rider Education is proud to collaborate with USMCA to enhance motorcycling sport and recreation.”

“It is with great pride that we announce American Honda has joined as an official Motorcycle Partner for the 2021 season,” stated USMCA President Christy LaCurelle. “With their Ride Red initiatives and Honda Rider Education Program history, the Honda brand is a perfect fit to align USCMA coaching to new OEM customers. This connection will see more riders receiving better coaching and that will create more riders who enjoy our sport for a lifetime.”

 

About the U.S. Motorcycle Coaching Association (USMCA)

USMCA is an association where riders and parents can connect to motorcycle coaches they can trust through the network, www.MotorcycleCoaching.org.

All USMCA Certified Coaches are required to adhere to a code of conduct, pass a background check and hold certifications in abuse prevention, CPR/First Aid, concussion protocol, heat illness & cardiac arrest training.

For more information on the USMCA or become a USMCA Certified Coach, visit www.USMCA.org.

Interview: Luca Marini, In The January Issue

Featured In the January 2021 issue of Roadracing World: 

“I am Like Ice, Valentino Is Like Fire…”

        Luca Marini has vivid memories of his childhood, sitting at home watching his big brother winning races on TV, or, even better, flying halfway around the world to witness big bro winning World Championships. When Luca was seven, his mom Stefania Palma took him to Australia to watch brother Valentino Rossi famously win the 2004 MotoGP World Championship, his first with Yamaha. 

        Rossi celebrated that success at Phillip Island by carrying Luca Marini on his shoulders—quite an experience for a little kid. But in the 2021 season, Rossi and Marini will both be on the MotoGP grid. Like so many aspects of Rossi’s life it has a hint of the fairy-tale about it …

—Interview: Luca Marini, by Mat Oxley

         

           Luca Marini, the 2020 Moto2 runner-up, is Valentino Rossi’s half-brother. In 2021 he joins Rossi on the MotoGP grid. So what’s it like being little brother to perhaps the greatest motorcycle racer of all time? MotoGP Editor Mat Oxley explores Marini’s career and racing expectations in the latest issue of Roadracing World!

 

Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology is THE definitive source for motorcycle racing, riding, and tech information.

PREVIEW the January 2021 Issue of Roadracing World!

Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology magazine is available in print and digital formats. SUBSCRIBE NOW . Or call (909) 654-4779, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time, Monday through Friday. Read the January 2021 issue of Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology with your online subscription. Log in HERE

Available at Cycle Gear and other motorcycle retailers.

Visit www.roadracingworld.com daily for breaking news and events.

Like us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/roadracingworld

Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com @roadracingworld

Follow us on Instagram https://instagram.com @roadracing_world

World Superbike: Team HRC Completes Testing At Jerez

Team HRC finds useful dry track time at Jerez despite rain and fog

While wet weather forced most SBK teams to cancel last week’s test at Jerez de la Frontera in Spain, fog and drizzle affected this week’s rescheduled session at the same Andalusian track. However, perseverance paid off for Team HRC, as Honda factory riders Alvaro Bautista and Leon Haslam were able to take to the track on Thursday afternoon in dry conditions and warm temperatures to finally begin the crucial on-track work with their CBR1000RR-R FIREBLADE SP bikes. Unfortunately, today’s wet conditions prevented any further track activity and the team packed up to leave in the early afternoon.

It was important for Bautista and Haslam to be able to get back into the swing of working with their respective technicians in preparation for the 2021 season. In what is their second consecutive year with the factory team, both riders are keen to build on the work completed last year and improve all-round performance aboard their factory machines. In what was essentially a shakedown following the enforced winter break, the pair took the opportunity to test several updated components and provide the HRC engineers in Japan with some important initial feedback.

Further pre-season tests will be confirmed in due course, global Covid-19 pandemic depending, as Team HRC continues its preparation ahead of the opening round of the championship, scheduled to take place at the Assen TT circuit in The Netherlands over the weekend of 23-25 April.

 

Alvaro Bautista (19) in action at Jerez. Photo courtesy Team HRC.
Alvaro Bautista (19) in action at Jerez. Photo courtesy Team HRC.

 

Alvaro Bautista  19

“We have not been very lucky with the weather, it’s been either rain or a wet track, but we finally made the most of a half day, testing some new items HRC has brought for the upcoming season. We were able to collate some useful data and gain some references, and at least give the technicians the indications for them to be able to continue their development work. So with that in mind, it’s been an important and very positive test, albeit a short one. Now we have the direction to follow in order to take the next steps at future tests.”

 

Leon Haslam (91) in action at Jerez. Photo courtesy Team HRC.
Leon Haslam (91) in action at Jerez. Photo courtesy Team HRC.

 

Leon Haslam  91

“The weather here has been crazy but honestly, I think this test was very important as we needed to evaluate quite a few things for HRC. Even though we eventually had just half a day, we were able to complete some laps and give the engineers and team the information they needed, and so now they can continue their work to prepare for the next tests. It’s been really good to get back on my CBR, the feeling was good and the new items we’ve tested were very interesting, so now I have even more motivation ahead of my training camp in coming weeks. Hopefully we can test again soon so that we’re well prepared for the start of the season.”

2021 Trackday Directory: Submit Schedules And Photos By February 1

The cover of the 2020 Roadracing World Trackday Directory annual edition.

Roadracing World Publishing is now requesting schedule and photo submissions from trackday organizers and riding school operators for the 2021 season to put in Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology magazine and the 2021 Roadracing World Trackday Directory annual edition.

All schedule submissions should include: the name of your school or trackday organization, your schedule (including exact dates, correct track names and locations, and the track layout being used that day, if applicable), and full contact information for consumers.

Schedules submitted will be published in the Calendar section of Roadracing World magazine and the Events calendar section of Roadracingworld.com as soon as possible after they are received.

For trackday and school organizations and schedules to be listed in Roadracing World’s 2021 Trackday Directory annual edition, however, we need your schedule and the following information by February 1, 2021:

School or Trackday Organization Name:
Physical or Mailing Address, (Street address, city, state abbreviation, zip code):
Phone Number:
FAX Number (optional):
Website Address:
Email Address:

(Select one answer for each question)

  1. Events Run Rain or Shine: Yes or No
  2. Coolant: Antifreeze OK or No Antifreeze Allowed
  3. Headlight & Taillight: Tape or Disconnect or Tape and Disconnect
  4. Mirrors & Signals: Tape or Remove
  5. License Plate: OK or Remove
  6. Safety Wire: Some Required or None Required
  7. Sidestand: OK or Remove
  8. The minimum age to participate is: ?

Please e-mail schedule/calendar and Trackday Directory listing information to [email protected].

Even if your 2021 schedule is not finalized, please respond to us and send whatever information you can so that you will not be left out of the Trackday Directory annual. Provisional schedules or dates listed as provisional are allowed.

There is no cost to be listed in Roadracing World’s Trackday Directory annual edition, but we can’t post your information if we don’t receive it in time. As a result, late submissions or incomplete submissions may not be published.

Again, the deadline to submit is February 1, 2021.

 

The full cover of the 2020 Roadracing World Trackday Directory.

 

If you’ve already submitted your schedule for inclusion in the Calendar section of Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology, great! But this is not enough information for an entry in the Trackday Directory. Please submit the information requested above to be included in the once-per-year Roadracing World Trackday Directory or call us to do minor updates to the information we published in the 2020 Trackday Directory.

If you have any doubt about what you have or have not sent in or if it was received, please contact us.

As always, we are also requesting trackday organizers and school operators to submit digital photos of their events and groups in action – on and off the track — for possible publication in the 2021 Trackday Directory. This is a great way to publicize your events and spotlight some of your members at no cost to you, but we need you to help us help you.

Digital photos must be in-focus, free from any watermarks or graphics, and high-resolution, which means a minimum of 300 dpi/ppi or 3000 pixels wide at 3 inches. The best way to submit these photos is with a file transfer program like Hightail or Dropbox, which are free to download and use on a limited basis. Emailing the photos in small batches also works.

Photos must be accompanied by information to be used to write a caption. This includes the name of the track and information to credit the photographer, etc. By submitting a photo or photos, you certify that you own the submitted material and that you give us (Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.) permission to publish it in Roadracing World magazine and/or post it on Roadracingworld.com, without paying you (or anybody else) any money.

For additional information, e-mail [email protected] or call (909) 654-4779.

Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup: 2021 Schedule Revised

Marcos Uriarte (89) leads a pack of Red Bull MotoGP Rookies during Race One at Valencia II. Photo courtesy Red Bull.
Marcos Uriarte (89) leads a pack of Red Bull MotoGP Rookies during Race One at Valencia II in 2020. Photo courtesy Red Bull.

Pop into Portugal – Early Kick-Off for revised Rookies Cup Calendar

Portimão is the venue for the first two Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup races on April 17th and 18th. Our preseason test takes place at the same venue over three days, April 9th, 10 & 11th.

In our 15th season we therefore continue our tradition of being part of the first European Grand Prix of the year.

The extensive 14 race series for our KTMs then sweeps across Europe, finishing back on the Iberian Peninsula at Motorland Aragón on September 11th & 12th.

As the pandemic difficulties continue we are deeply appreciative of Dorna’s inclusion of the Rookies Cup in their Grand Prix schedules as we are of the support from all our other partners.

 

Provisional Calendar

Test – April 9-11 Portimão – Portugal

Races 1-2 April 17-18 Portimão – Portugal

Races 3-4 May 1-2 Jerez – Spain

Races 5-6 May 29-30 Mugello – Italy

Races 7-8 June 19-20 Sachsenring – Germany

Races 9-10 July 10-11 KymiRing – Finland

Races 11-12 August 14-15 Red Bull Ring – Austria

Races 13-14 September 11-12 Aragon – Spain

 

Entry List

5 Tatchakorn Buasri (Thailand)

7 Daniel Muñoz (Spain)

8 Eddie O‘Shea (Great Britain)

9 Freddie Heinrich (Germany)

13 Sho Nishimura (Japan)

14 Cormac Buchanan (New Zealand)

19 Scott Ogden (Great Britain)

21 Demis Mihaila (Italy)

23 Alex Millan (Spain)

24 Ivan Ortolá (Spain)

28 Matteo Bertelle (Italy)

29 Harrison Voight (Australia)

34 Mario Aji (Indonesia)

39 Bartholomé Perrin (France)

42 Soma Görbe (Hungary)

48 Gabin Planques (France)

55 Noah Dettwiler (Switzerland)

58 Luca Lunetta (Italy)

64 David Muñoz (Spain)

77 Filippo Farioli (Italy)

78 Jakob Rosenthaler (Austria)

80 David Alonso (Colombia)

89 Marcos Uriarte (Spain)

92 Diogo Moreira (Brasil)

95 Collin Veijer (Netherlands)

96 Daniel Holgado (Spain)

MotoAmerica: Ward Hoping To Get Back On Track In 2021

Bradley Ward (57) at speed at Road Atlanta. Photo courtesy Bradley Ward Racing.
Bradley Ward (57) at speed at Road Atlanta. Photo courtesy Bradley Ward Racing.

Well on the way to recovery, Bradley aims to be back on the MotoAmerica grid in ’21

Whilst most MotoAmerica regulars are gearing up for a racing return in the not-too-distant future, Britain’s Bradley Ward is still on the road to recovery but is hopeful of being back on track at some point during 2021.

Ward who shot to prominence in the Superstock 1000 series in 2019, was equally impressive on his Superbike debut last season before disaster struck and an injury following an early season incident ruled him out of contention.

The prognosis for Ward is good, and he is now up and about and back behind the wheel of his race transporter which is being used by Muc-Off Honda in the 2021 Supercross series.

Bradley is pleased to provide his supporters and the fans of MotoAmerica an update on the injury, together with his plans for the year ahead, which whether he races or not, will see him back in the paddock with the ADR Fly Motorsport squad.

Bradley Ward: “I have been really busy the last few weeks and my schedule is only going to get busier. I am on the road driving my truck for a team within the Supercross series who have stickered it up in their livery. It’s been great and really given me something to focus on. It’s not easy, I am still struggling on my feet a little bit but I am building up the muscles in my legs and slowly but surely making progress so I can’t complain really. My wrist is probably 75% there, I have a lot of the mobility back but it’s still quite weak. My leg is pretty free from pain and I have a way to go to build muscle after all the tears to my hamstring and quads. My leg was broken quite badly, and it still swells after a couple of hours of being up and about. I have another scan in a couple of weeks so we will see what they say. I am desperate to be back on the grid, but I will have to see what they say. As far as plans go, I have organised and agreed with Dave (Anthony), that as soon as I am fit and able, I will be back on the bike so I will keep focused on the recovery and in the meantime make sure all the parts and everything that’s needed is organised. Regardless of whether I am ready to race when the season starts, I will still be in the paddock playing a big part of my ADR team, potentially driving the truck, and doing everything I can to keep my sponsors happy – they have been amazing. Don’t get me wrong I want to be back on the Superbike grid more than anything, but I won’t rush it. I would like to say a massive thanks to everyone at MotoAmerica for all their support over the last months, and for standing by my side for when I am ready to get back on track in the series. As I said, I am a bit wiser than I was in the past and so I won’t come back too soon to risk further injury or to just ride around at less than 80% but I will be back!”

Bradley continues to be active on his social media channels – Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram – links to all three are embedded within this release. He has also just updated his website which is now even more interactive than ever.

For more information go to bradleywardracing.com

MotoGP: Gresini’s Condition Continues To Improve

The 2020 Gresini Racing teams with the Aprilia Gresini MotoGP unit in the middle. Photo courtesy Gresini Racing.
The 2020 Gresini Racing teams with Fausto Gresini front and center. Photo courtesy Gresini Racing.

UPDATE ON FAUSTO GRESINI’S CONDITIONS 

Slow but continuous improvements on the state of health of Fausto Gresini, always hospitalized in the intensive care unit of the Maggiore Carlo Alberto Pizzardi hospital in Bologna.

Here is today’s s statement by Dr Nicola Cilloni: “Fausto’s clinical condition slowly continues to improve. For more than a week now without fever, rehabilitation is making progress every day, even if the path ahead is still long. He is still helped by the breathing machine, but he is also working on it, trying to recover the strength to do it alone. He manages to make video calls and to be seen by Nadia. The next steps will be the functional recovery of breathing and nutrition”.

Further updates in the following days.

MotoGP: Guintoli On Developing The Suzuki GSX-RR

MotoGP test rider Sylvain Guintoli (50) in action on a Suzuki GSX-RR. Photo courtesy Suzuki.
MotoGP test rider Sylvain Guintoli (50) in action on a Suzuki GSX-RR. Photo courtesy Suzuki.

HOW WE MADE THE WORLD CHAMPION GSX-RR

Team Suzuki MotoGP Test Rider Sylvain Guintoli talks about his role in helping develop the World Championship-winning Suzuki GSX-RR.

“Winter is a time to relax and enjoy time with my family, especially as my wife and I have just welcomed a new addition to our brood! And it’s really nice to take some time off, although I’m really hoping that things can slowly get back to normal this year!

“When you’re at home, without the races, it’s also a good time to reflect and look back at happy memories. I’ve been thinking about the fantastic success of Suzuki in 2020 and remembering how my role with Team Suzuki Ecstar began.

“I joined in 2017 after Alex’s wrist injury and I stepped in to replace him. At the time I had started doing some development with the GSX-R in BSB (British Superbikes) with Suzuki, and Davide Brivio called me because I had past MotoGP experience.

“For me it was a great opportunity because usually when you go out of MotoGP, you can’t get back in, so it was really nice to be back riding a GP bike. My first thoughts were that it was just brilliant to experience riding a bike like that again and first of all you just need to have a bit of fun on the bike, and then you have to get into the technical stuff and understanding the bike, trying to go faster.

“My first impression of the GSX-RR was that it was very well balanced, but there was an issue with the engine that year. That balance has become a sort of ‘theme’ around the GSX-RR, and that’s actually the most important thing in GP racing because at the end of the day these bikes are too powerful for the tracks and too powerful for the grip level, so the key is to manage what you have and make the most it.

“We worked hard and one of the biggest improvements came between 2017 and 2018; the engine was much better and all the tools that were put in place to try and counteract the engine issue were still all really useful and beneficial, because we had taken a deep dive into the bike and that allowed us to understand even more about the GSX-RR. Then after that it was all about the little steps; aerodynamics, engine braking and stability. Just chipping away and making small adjustments – all those little things add up. The following year, in 2019, the bike was getting better and better and so were the results.

“Then last year, in 2020, the big difference was the new chassis, which I tried for the first time at the pre-season Sepang test; it was a big improvement! It allows the riders to brake harder, which was a big plus. Joan brakes late and he brakes hard, so it really helped him. And the new engine in 2020 was also better in a few areas, so we did take a big step last year. Historically Suzuki has always built bikes that handle well and corner well; it’s in the DNA and this 2020 GSX-RR was sort of the ultimate in that way.

“I love seeing the work put into action so I watch every session, even when I’m at home, and last year it was more exciting than ever seeing Joan and Alex perform so well! I’m quite geeky about it because after each track session I like to analyse the timesheets and all the info. I’m really interested and it helps me to understand the different riding styles and strengths of Suzuki’s riders and pinpoint what they need….and apart from that I’m just a big fan of motorbike racing!

“Usually I would do about 10,000km of testing but in 2020 it was much harder because of the pandemic. This year, in 2021, it looks like the schedule will change again and it will be hard to know about travel restrictions and how much we’re able to test. Last year I couldn’t’t go to Japan and that was difficult, and we heard a few days ago that the Sepang test is cancelled so we need to wait and see what’s possible. But there is also a development freeze which is good for us because we’re very happy with the bike, although we’re keen to continue working for the future.

“Things will be a little different for Team Suzuki Ecstar this year because Davide has left the team. I enjoyed working with him and I’m grateful to him for welcoming me and sharing some great memories. For now I’m training and keeping fit, which is crucial to be able to handle a full day of testing, so I do a lot of cycling and go on adventures. I’m ready to get back on the GSX-RR as soon as possible!

Happy New Year everyone!”

AOD: Building A 2020 Yamaha YZF-R1, In The January Issue

The author on the bike now known as Gaijin, testing Michelin tires and electronics during an N2 track day at NCBike. Photo by Apex Photography/courtesy AOD.
The author on the bike now known as Gaijin, testing Michelin tires and electronics during an N2 track day at NCBike. Photo by Apex Photography/courtesy AOD.

Featured In the January 2021 issue of Roadracing World: 

        “Back in the late 90s and early oughts my race team, Army of Darkness, brought at least one new motorcycle every year to feed to the maw of WERA endurance racing. Back then, a season consisted of 10 rounds spread out around the country and our oversized (649cc) Suzuki GSX-R600 engines only lasted for about 16 hours of race use, which meant we were either racing, or rebuilding top ends, pretty much every weekend of the year.

         “After seven championships it became harder for us to be successful existentialists and give meaning to the experience, so we took a step back in 2006. Unfortunately, in 2009, we were gifted a pair of endurance R1s. That led to a slow relapse of racing preparation and podiums…”

 

—Army Of Darkness: Building A Yamaha YZF-R1 Endurance Bike Part 1, By Sam Q. Fleming

 

The personified ongoing existential crisis (why was man born, if not to race?) that is the Army of Darkness is back, this time with Yamaha YZF-R1s. Read the latest exploits of one of the most famous endurance racing teams in U.S. road racing history—it’s all in the new issue of Roadracing World!

 

Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology is THE definitive source for motorcycle racing, riding, and tech information.

PREVIEW the January 2021 Issue of Roadracing World!

Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology magazine is available in print and digital formats. SUBSCRIBE NOW . Or call (909) 654-4779, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time, Monday through Friday. Read the December 2020 issue of Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology with your online subscription. Log in HERE

Available at Cycle Gear and other motorcycle retailers.

Visit www.roadracingworld.com daily for breaking news and events.

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Daytona 200: Michael Dunlop Entered In Classic Race

Michael Dunlop (6) during the Senior TT at the 2017 Isle of Man TT. Photo courtesy Isle of Man TT Press Office.
Michael Dunlop (6) during the Senior TT at the 2017 Isle of Man TT. Photo courtesy Isle of Man TT Press Office.

The current entry list for the 79th Daytona 200, operated by the American Sportbike Racing Association (ASRA) under sanction of the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA), includes 63 riders.

Famed International road racer Michael Dunlop is entered on a Kawasaki ZX-6R. Dunlop, age 31, is a 19-time race winner at the Isle of Man TT, winning on a variety of machinery from 650cc Twins to 600cc Supersports to 1000cc Superbikes.

The Daytona 200 race is scheduled to run March 13, 2021, on the 3.51-mile infield road course at Daytona International Speedway, in Daytona Beach, Florida.

Entries will be accepted up until the start of the event weekend on March 12.

The 79th Daytona 200 was originally scheduled to run March 14, 2020, but it was postponed and later cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

79th Daytona 200 Entry List

American Honda Partners With USMCA

A scene from an American Honda rider education event. Photo courtesy of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. and USMCA.
A scene from an American Honda rider education event. Photo courtesy of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. and USMCA.

American Honda Joins USMCA 

Temecula, California – Today, the United States Motorcycle Coaching Association (USMCA) is proud to announce the official addition of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. as a Motorcycle Partner for 2021.

As a longtime provider of Rider Education, American Honda and its top-of-class Rider Education platform, facilities, and instructors are now officially aligned with USMCA’s mission of engaging with new and returning riders to the sport in hopes of supporting lifetime riders and skills.

“American Honda has a history of building lifetime customers,” stated Robie Heilbron, Head of Honda Rider Education. “And in this spirit, Honda Rider Education is proud to collaborate with USMCA to enhance motorcycling sport and recreation.”

“It is with great pride that we announce American Honda has joined as an official Motorcycle Partner for the 2021 season,” stated USMCA President Christy LaCurelle. “With their Ride Red initiatives and Honda Rider Education Program history, the Honda brand is a perfect fit to align USCMA coaching to new OEM customers. This connection will see more riders receiving better coaching and that will create more riders who enjoy our sport for a lifetime.”

 

About the U.S. Motorcycle Coaching Association (USMCA)

USMCA is an association where riders and parents can connect to motorcycle coaches they can trust through the network, www.MotorcycleCoaching.org.

All USMCA Certified Coaches are required to adhere to a code of conduct, pass a background check and hold certifications in abuse prevention, CPR/First Aid, concussion protocol, heat illness & cardiac arrest training.

For more information on the USMCA or become a USMCA Certified Coach, visit www.USMCA.org.

Interview: Luca Marini, In The January Issue

Luca Marini (10) leads Sky Racing Team VR46 teammate Marco Bezzecchi (72) and Enea Bastianini (33) on his way to winning the 2020 Moto2 race at Misano, all three on Kalex racebikes. With additional wins at Jerez and Catalunya, Marini finished second to Bastianini in the 2020 Moto2 World Championship. Photo by DPPI Media.

Featured In the January 2021 issue of Roadracing World: 

“I am Like Ice, Valentino Is Like Fire…”

        Luca Marini has vivid memories of his childhood, sitting at home watching his big brother winning races on TV, or, even better, flying halfway around the world to witness big bro winning World Championships. When Luca was seven, his mom Stefania Palma took him to Australia to watch brother Valentino Rossi famously win the 2004 MotoGP World Championship, his first with Yamaha. 

        Rossi celebrated that success at Phillip Island by carrying Luca Marini on his shoulders—quite an experience for a little kid. But in the 2021 season, Rossi and Marini will both be on the MotoGP grid. Like so many aspects of Rossi’s life it has a hint of the fairy-tale about it …

—Interview: Luca Marini, by Mat Oxley

         

           Luca Marini, the 2020 Moto2 runner-up, is Valentino Rossi’s half-brother. In 2021 he joins Rossi on the MotoGP grid. So what’s it like being little brother to perhaps the greatest motorcycle racer of all time? MotoGP Editor Mat Oxley explores Marini’s career and racing expectations in the latest issue of Roadracing World!

 

Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology is THE definitive source for motorcycle racing, riding, and tech information.

PREVIEW the January 2021 Issue of Roadracing World!

Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology magazine is available in print and digital formats. SUBSCRIBE NOW . Or call (909) 654-4779, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time, Monday through Friday. Read the January 2021 issue of Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology with your online subscription. Log in HERE

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World Superbike: Team HRC Completes Testing At Jerez

Leon Haslam (91) and Alvaro Bautista (19) testing at Jerez. Photo courtesy Team HRC.
Leon Haslam (91) and Alvaro Bautista (19) testing at Jerez. Photo courtesy Team HRC.

Team HRC finds useful dry track time at Jerez despite rain and fog

While wet weather forced most SBK teams to cancel last week’s test at Jerez de la Frontera in Spain, fog and drizzle affected this week’s rescheduled session at the same Andalusian track. However, perseverance paid off for Team HRC, as Honda factory riders Alvaro Bautista and Leon Haslam were able to take to the track on Thursday afternoon in dry conditions and warm temperatures to finally begin the crucial on-track work with their CBR1000RR-R FIREBLADE SP bikes. Unfortunately, today’s wet conditions prevented any further track activity and the team packed up to leave in the early afternoon.

It was important for Bautista and Haslam to be able to get back into the swing of working with their respective technicians in preparation for the 2021 season. In what is their second consecutive year with the factory team, both riders are keen to build on the work completed last year and improve all-round performance aboard their factory machines. In what was essentially a shakedown following the enforced winter break, the pair took the opportunity to test several updated components and provide the HRC engineers in Japan with some important initial feedback.

Further pre-season tests will be confirmed in due course, global Covid-19 pandemic depending, as Team HRC continues its preparation ahead of the opening round of the championship, scheduled to take place at the Assen TT circuit in The Netherlands over the weekend of 23-25 April.

 

Alvaro Bautista (19) in action at Jerez. Photo courtesy Team HRC.
Alvaro Bautista (19) in action at Jerez. Photo courtesy Team HRC.

 

Alvaro Bautista  19

“We have not been very lucky with the weather, it’s been either rain or a wet track, but we finally made the most of a half day, testing some new items HRC has brought for the upcoming season. We were able to collate some useful data and gain some references, and at least give the technicians the indications for them to be able to continue their development work. So with that in mind, it’s been an important and very positive test, albeit a short one. Now we have the direction to follow in order to take the next steps at future tests.”

 

Leon Haslam (91) in action at Jerez. Photo courtesy Team HRC.
Leon Haslam (91) in action at Jerez. Photo courtesy Team HRC.

 

Leon Haslam  91

“The weather here has been crazy but honestly, I think this test was very important as we needed to evaluate quite a few things for HRC. Even though we eventually had just half a day, we were able to complete some laps and give the engineers and team the information they needed, and so now they can continue their work to prepare for the next tests. It’s been really good to get back on my CBR, the feeling was good and the new items we’ve tested were very interesting, so now I have even more motivation ahead of my training camp in coming weeks. Hopefully we can test again soon so that we’re well prepared for the start of the season.”