Former racer and long-time race official Charles Brothers passed away today in Richmond, Texas. He was 70.
Brothers was a longtime race official and Race Director for Texas-based Central Road Racing Club (CRRC) and Central Motorcycle Roadracing Association (CMRA) and saw the launch of the road racing careers of Colin Edwards, Nicky Hayden, Jamie James, Doug Polen, Kevin Schwantz, Freddie Spencer, and Ben Spies, just to name a few.
Brothers was known for his cool and calm demeanor and common sense approach in dealing with problems.
He retired from working races in 2002.
Brothers and his late wife Connie essentially ran CMRA for many years, doing everything from administration, registration, scoring, producing the club newsletter, and running the race events along with the help of their children Robert, Aimee, and Aaron.
The Brothers family was inducted into the CMRA Hall of Fame in 2006.
We will post more information as it becomes available.
Featured In the January 2021 issue of Roadracing World:
The 2020 MotoGP season was the first to be staged in the middle of a global pandemic. It was the first that didn’t feature the reigning World Champion since 1961 when John Surtees switched to Formula 1 cars. And it was the first in 72 years of GP racing that five different riders climbed to the top step of a MotoGP podium.
Brad Binder, Joan Mir, Franco Morbidelli, Miguel Oliveira, and Fabio Quartararo didn’t only win their first races in 2020, combined they won more than two thirds of the races! That means MotoGP is currently going through a seismic generational shift—out with the old and in with the new…
—MotoGP Analysis: MotoGP’s New Generation Of Heroes, By Mat Oxley
The 2020 MotoGP season was the weirdest season anyone can remember. For the first time in Grand Prix history, there were five first-time winners—Brad Binder, Joan Mir, Franco Morbidelli, Miguel Oliveira, and Fabio Quartararo. So what’s the story behind these new kids on the grid? Read MotoGP Editor Mat Oxley’s analysis of the raucous rookie class of 2020 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 Technologywith your online subscription. Log in HERE
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SUZUKI MOTOR CORPORATION TO LAUNCH NEW MOTORCYCLE GLOBAL SALON
Brea, CA – Suzuki Motor of America, Inc. (Suzuki) recently launched its all-new website, SuzukiCycles.com, which serves as the primary online destination for Suzuki’s U.S. motorcycle, scooter, ATV and genuine accessories customers.
And, now, Suzuki Motor Corporation, parent company of Suzuki Motor of America, Inc., is set to launch its new Suzuki Motorcycle Global Salon (Global Salon), a next-generation communications platform that fans of Suzuki motorcycles may visit starting on February 5, 2021.
The Global Salon allows users to view motorcycles ‘on display’ in a virtual environment from the comfort of their own home, as though visiting a Suzuki dealership or motorcycle show, and also enjoy the unveiling of brand new Suzuki models.
When browsing the models on display, users may view Suzuki technical information and configure machines to suit their individual preferences, including colors and accessories. They can also interact with fellow visitors to the Global Salon.
Suzuki Motor Corporation will also look to host future new model launches within the Global Salon platform, with fans from around the world able to virtually attend and witness the introduction of new Suzuki bikes as they are introduced, in real-time.
Registration opens at 11:00 PM (PST) on January 27, 2021, with the grand opening taking place on February 5, 2021.
Featured In the January 2021 issue of Roadracing World:
American Joe Roberts had a breakout year in 2020. Competing in his third season in the FIM Moto2 World Championship, Roberts claimed three pole positions, one podium finish, and finished seventh in the final Championship points; landed a ride replacing outgoing 2020 Moto2 World Champion Enea Bastianini at Italtrans Racing; and got an offer to join the Aprilia MotoGP team.
We caught up with Roberts after he returned home to California for the first time in five months, and asked how he felt about his 2020 season.
“Seventh in the World Championship, that sounds pretty good to me. I think last season (2019) I only scored four points, and this season I scored 94. The whole season, we had such a great year …”
—Interviews: Americans In Moto2, by David Swarts
Joe Roberts and five-time MotoAmerica Superbike Champion Cameron Beaubier are slated to race in the Moto2 World Championship in 2021, giving the U.S. its strongest presence in international-level racing in years. How are they approaching the upcoming season? Read the details 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 Technologywith 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
Army of Darkness Race Team Joins Forces with Pirelli for the 2021 Racing Season
AOD Yamaha R1-Equipped with DIABLO™ Superbike Slicks Seeks 16th National Title
ROME, Ga. – Pirelli Tire North America has announced a new partnership that will see the Army of Darkness (AOD) racing team equipped with Pirelli DIABLO™ Superbike slicks for the 2021-racing season. Founded in 1993, AOD is the longest running endurance motorcycle road racing team in America and have captured an impressive 15 national championships. The AOD Yamaha YZF-R1® machine will be fitted with DIABLO Superbike slicks, specifically using the new, larger 125/70-17 and 200/65-17 sizing.
“The Army of Darkness racing team has an impressive record that speaks for itself,” said Oscar Solis, road racing manager, Pirelli. “I feel that this is the perfect time to spotlight our newer World Superbike and World Supersport tires in the endurance race series. The AOD team will be running the new, larger sized Pirelli DIABLO™ Superbike slicks that have proven to be more durable with the additional grip. I am very excited about the new partnership and to see what we can do together on the racetrack.”
For 2021, AOD will have its sights set on returning to the WERA/N2 National Endurance series and look to defend the championship that it captured this past year. Pirelli’s DIABLO Superbike range of tires, including the new, larger sizing, has been developed through the brand’s role as the official tire supplier for the World Superbike Championship the past 17 seasons. Pirelli continues to pride itself on the motto “we race what we sell, we sell what we race”, meaning that riders competing in both local and national championships can purchase the same tires used in the world championship through their local Pirelli trackside vendor.
“Army of Darkness has won 15 national endurance championships, and each year, it has required effort to figure out a way to improve our average lap time from the previous year,” said Sam Fleming, team captain, Army of Darkness. “Of course, constant improvement is what racing is all about! Pirelli has always embraced this racing ethos and have innovated with new tire sizes, compounds, and construction. Their efforts yielded a number of new lap records across the USA in 2020. We were both, humbled and honored, when Pirelli partnered with us for what is sure to be our most challenging season ever in the WERA/N2 National Endurance series. We hope to put Pirelli’s rubber to good use as we set out to defend our championship. As my friends know, the ‘Q’ in my name is for Quarelli and I have a large family in Northern Italy. They will be very pleased that we will be flying the Italian flag, il Tricolore, even if it’s in black.”
To learn more about the Army of Darkness race team, Click Here.
For more information about the complete line of Pirelli motorcycle tires, please visit Pirelli.com
Suzuki Motor of America, Inc. Debuts an All-New Website for the Motorcycle Division
Brea, CA – Suzuki Motor of America, Inc. is thrilled to announce an all-new website at SuzukiCycles.com. This new Suzuki website has been completely rebuilt to provide a more responsive and engaging consumer online experience; and features the entire line of Suzuki motorcycles, scooters, ATVs and genuine accessories.
SuzukiCycles.com has been built from the ground up to include a host of new features, stunning photography, new video elements, and all the specifications and Suzuki product information to help riders explore, learn, and experience the complete Suzuki line-up.
“We are very excited to launch this brand new website,” said Kerry Graeber, Vice President MC/ATV Sales and Marketing. “The new SuzukiCycles.com delivers a fresh, new, and more dynamic site that not only provides information, but also gives consumers a rich and engaging experience on everything about Suzuki motorcycles and ATVs.”
The new website has been created with a focus on delivering a wealth of content that is easily accessible for all devices including mobile and will help riders conduct the research, request a price quote from, and find their nearest Suzuki dealer.
The 79th Daytona 200 and ASRA/CCS Bikeweek Events March 2021
Ladies and Gentlemen, this is the moment we’ve been waiting for since March 13, 2020! We have been given the word that the 2021 Bike Week event is a go which means we finally get to run the 79th Daytona 200.
With AFT moving their events to the Volusia County Speedway, this opens the Blue garages to over-flow rentals once the Yellow garages are full. ASRA/CCS will be based in the Yellow garages and Tech will take place in the Inspection Bay between the garages behind pit road.
Here are the appropriate forms for entry to the Daytona 200.
79th Daytona 200 sanctioned by ASRA – March 13, 2021
2021 FIM MotoGP™ World Championship provisional calendar updated
Two races in Qatar and one in Portimão will now open the season, with the Argentina and Americas GPs postponed
Friday, 22 January 2021
The FIM, IRTA and Dorna Sports can now reveal an updated calendar for the 2021 FIM MotoGP™ World Championship as the beginning of another exciting season of racing appears on the horizon, with testing action set to get underway in just over a month.
The season opening Grand Prix in Qatar remains confirmed for the 26th to the 28th of March and it will now be followed by a second event, the Grand Prix of Doha, at the same Losail International Circuit the following weekend, from the 2nd to the 4th of April.
The Autodromo Internacional do Algarve in Portugal will then host the third round of the Championship from the 16th to the 18th of April before the paddock heads to the Circuito de Jerez-Angel Nieto as previously planned.
The ongoing Covid-19 pandemic and resulting lockdowns and complications sadly oblige the postponement of both the Argentina GP and the Americas GP until the last quarter of 2021. Any further updates or changes will be provided as soon as available.
Updated 2021 FIM MotoGP World Championship Schedule (January 22):
Date Venue Country
March 26-28 Losail International Circuit, Qatar*
April 2-4 Losail International Circuit, Qatar*
April 16-18 Algarve International Circuit, Portugal
April 30-May 2 Circuito de Jerez, Spain
May 14-16 Le Mans, France
May 28-30 Autodromo del Mugello, Italy
June 4-6 Barcelona – Catalunya, Spain
June 18-20 Sachsenring, Germany
June 25-27 TT Circuit Assen, Netherlands
July 9-11 KymiRing, Finland **
August 13-15 Red Bull Ring – Spielberg, Austria
August 27-29 Silverstone Circuit, UK
September 10-12 MotorLand Aragón, Spain
September 17-19 Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli, San Marino
October 1-3 Twin Ring Motegi, Japan
October 8-10 Chang International Circuit, Thailand
October 22-24 Phillip Island, Australia
October 29-31 Sepang International Circuit, Malaysia
November 12-14 Circuit Ricardo Tormo, Spain
Postponed Grands Prix to be rescheduled subject to the pandemic:
Termas de Río Hondo, Argentina
Circuit of the Americas, U.S.A.
Reserve Grand Prix Venues:
Mandalika International Street Circuit, Indonesia**
* Evening Race
** Subject to Homologation
There will be a maximum of 20 events in the 2021 season. All dates, events and the attendance of spectators are subject to the evolution of the pandemic and the approval of the corresponding Governments and authorities.
Tulsa, OK – January 21, 2021 – For fans who have attended MotoAmerica races and spent any time around the Westby Racing team transporter, you know that team owner Tryg Westby always has some interesting motorcycles to look at…along with the team’s #11 Westby Racing Yamaha YZF-R1 Superbike, of course. Whether it’s Tryg’s restored 1924 Harley-Davidson Model 24 JD and replica sidecar rig, his Spondon-framed Honda CBX, or his 1968 Yamaha YL-1 Twin Jet 100, he loves his wheels just as much as the fans and everyone else in the MotoAmerica paddock do.
That love has spawned a new video series called “Pops’ Shop,” which is being produced in cooperation with MotoAmerica. In each episode, Tryg personally presents something from his eclectic collection of motorcycles and cars. Tryg writes his own scripts, team technician Dustin Meador is the videographer, and Tryg’s daughter Scarlett does the editing with assistance from the content team at MotoAmerica.
Episode one is finished, and you can view it here:
Look for more episodes of Pops’ Shop in the coming weeks and months.
For more updates about Westby Racing, including news, photos, and videos, follow “Westby Racing” on your favorite social media sites. Also, visit https://www.WestbyRacing.com
WITH 2021, THE YEAR OF MOTO GUZZI’S CENTENNIAL IS LAUNCHED
TO CELEBRATE ONE HUNDRED YEARS OF THE EAGLE, THE GMG – GIORNATE MONDIALI MOTO GUZZI ARE BACK, FROM 9 THROUGH 12 SEPTEMBER IN MANDELLO DEL LARIO, WITH AN EXTRAORDINARY EDITION
A SPECIAL CENTENNIAL CELEBRATORY LIVERY IS UNVEILED, PRODUCED IN AN EXCLUSIVE EDITION ONLY IN 2021 AND INSPIRED BY THE LEGENDARY OTTO CILINDRI, AVAILABLE ON ALL MODELS
A century of history, one hundred years of spectacular motorcycles, victories, adventures and iconic characters who have built the legend of the Eagle Brand.
Moto Guzzi celebrates this extraordinary birthday with a 2021 full of initiatives that will culminate in the GMG – Giornate Mondiali Moto Guzzi, scheduled to be held in Mandello del Lario from 9 through 12 September.
The GMG – Giornate Mondiali Moto Guzzi are always a must-attend event for any enthusiast and, eagerly anticipated, they are back ten years after the last edition. Tens of thousands of enthusiasts will flock from all over the world to experience a unique and unforgettable event, made possible by the collaboration between Moto Guzzi, Motoraduno Internazionale Committee and the municipality of Mandello del Lario.
For such a special occasion, Moto Guzzi will produce a limited series of their models in a special Centennial Livery, which will be available on V7, V9 and V85 TT only throughout 2021.
A 2021 Moto Guzzi V85 TT in the special centennial livery. Photo courtesy Moto Guzzi.
An exclusive, elegant and attractive colour scheme, evocative of a unique heritage, drawing its origins from the aesthetics of legendary bikes which made motorcycling history, first and foremost, the Otto Cilindri of 1955. A mad and visionary idea, an extraordinary bike created to compete in the World Championship 500 class, a project so bold that it was ten years ahead of all global motorcycle production.
This milestone in motorbike history has an extremely elegant colour scheme in its purely racing essence, combining the satin-finished metal of the fuel tank with the green of the fairing and the leather on the seat. Colours that also characterised the 350 Bialbero, one of the most victorious bikes in history, the unbeatable dominator of the 350 class in World Championship GP Motorcycle Racing, with the amazing record of 9 consecutive world titles (5 Rider and 4 Manufacturer) from 1953 to 1957.
Green was also the first colour “worn” by a Moto Guzzi with the Normale, the first model, and probably the most iconic of the Eagle’s colours. The Style Centre reinterpreted it in a modern approach with a matt finish and associated with metallic colours the express the solidity and authenticity of the Larian brand. The body colours are matched with a saddle covered with a natural coloured material, like that of leather, to highlight the typically Italian attention to detail.
Other distinguishing details are the eagle in a gold finish and the dedicated logo that graphically celebrates Moto Guzzi’s 100 years.
A 2021 Moto Guzzi V7 Stone in the special centennial livery. Photo courtesy Moto Guzzi.
100 YEARS OF HISTORY FOR THE MOST AUTHENTIC BRAND OF GLOBAL MOTORCYCLING
More specifically, it was 15 March 1921 when the “Società Anonima Moto Guzzi” was established with the goal of “Manufacturing and sales of motorcycles and any other activity pertinent or connected to the metal mechanical industry”. And it was precisely in that moment, in memory of one of the founders’ brothers in arms, that the eagle with spread wings was chosen as the new company’s symbol. Since then, the eagle, which quickly gained notoriety all over the world, has been Moto Guzzi’s symbol.
And so, the operational headquarters were opened in Mandello del Lario – in the same plant where Moto Guzzi are still produced to this day – an industrial enterprise that had marked the history of global motorcycling through bikes that have become a part of the collective imagination such as the GT 500 Norge (1928) ridden to the Arctic Circle by Giuseppe Guzzi, brother of founder Carlo, the Airone 250 (1939), the Galletto (1950) which contributed to mass motorisation in the postwar period.
In those years, the wind tunnel was opened – the first in the world in the motorcycling segment, which can still be visited in the Mandello plant – greatly desired by a close-knit team that included extraordinary engineers the likes of Umberto Todero, Enrico Cantoni and a designer who would soon become a legend: Milan native Giulio Cesare Carcano, father of the incredible 285 km/hour Otto Cilindri (in 1955) and the prototypes which, between 1935 and 1957, won no fewer than 15 world speed titles and 11 Tourist Trophies.
In the ’60s, after the Stornello and Dingo light motorcycles, Moto Guzzi breathed life into the 700cc 90° V-twin with cardan shaft final drive, destined to become the very symbol of the Manufacturer from Mandello through legendary models like the V7 Special, V7 Sport, California and Le Mans. This engine has been consistently evolved on this architecture, all the way to driving, supported by the most advanced electronic control features, the most popular modern Moto Guzzis such as the V7 and V9 range in the Roamer and Bobber versions and the V85 TT traveller, the first ever classic enduro in the world.
Availability USA:
V7 Stone 100th Anniversary: MSRP $9,190 – arrival end of March 2021
V9 Bobber 100th Anniversary: MSRP $10,690 – arrival July 2021
V85TT Adventure 100th Anniversary: MSRP $13,190 – arrival end of April 2021
Availability Canada:
V7 Stone 100th Anniversary: MSRP $11,390 – arrival end of April 2021
V85TT Adventure 100th Anniversary: MSRP $15,390 – arrival end of May 2021
Charles Brothers (right) with two-time Superbike World Champion and former CMRA racer Colin Edwards (left), circa 2000. Photo courtesy Aimee (Brothers) Bemisderfer.
Former racer and long-time race official Charles Brothers passed away today in Richmond, Texas. He was 70.
Brothers was a longtime race official and Race Director for Texas-based Central Road Racing Club (CRRC) and Central Motorcycle Roadracing Association (CMRA) and saw the launch of the road racing careers of Colin Edwards, Nicky Hayden, Jamie James, Doug Polen, Kevin Schwantz, Freddie Spencer, and Ben Spies, just to name a few.
Brothers was known for his cool and calm demeanor and common sense approach in dealing with problems.
He retired from working races in 2002.
Brothers and his late wife Connie essentially ran CMRA for many years, doing everything from administration, registration, scoring, producing the club newsletter, and running the race events along with the help of their children Robert, Aimee, and Aaron.
The Brothers family was inducted into the CMRA Hall of Fame in 2006.
We will post more information as it becomes available.
The start of the the Teruel MotoGP race at Aragon in 2020 Fabio Quartararo (20), Franco Morbidelli (21) and Joan Mir (36) racing Maverick Viñales (12) and Jack Miller (43). Morbidelli won, with Mir second. Photo by DPPI Media.
Featured In the January 2021 issue of Roadracing World:
The 2020 MotoGP season was the first to be staged in the middle of a global pandemic. It was the first that didn’t feature the reigning World Champion since 1961 when John Surtees switched to Formula 1 cars. And it was the first in 72 years of GP racing that five different riders climbed to the top step of a MotoGP podium.
Brad Binder, Joan Mir, Franco Morbidelli, Miguel Oliveira, and Fabio Quartararo didn’t only win their first races in 2020, combined they won more than two thirds of the races! That means MotoGP is currently going through a seismic generational shift—out with the old and in with the new…
—MotoGP Analysis: MotoGP’s New Generation Of Heroes, By Mat Oxley
The 2020 MotoGP season was the weirdest season anyone can remember. For the first time in Grand Prix history, there were five first-time winners—Brad Binder, Joan Mir, Franco Morbidelli, Miguel Oliveira, and Fabio Quartararo. So what’s the story behind these new kids on the grid? Read MotoGP Editor Mat Oxley’s analysis of the raucous rookie class of 2020 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 Technologywith 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
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SUZUKI MOTOR CORPORATION TO LAUNCH NEW MOTORCYCLE GLOBAL SALON
Brea, CA – Suzuki Motor of America, Inc. (Suzuki) recently launched its all-new website, SuzukiCycles.com, which serves as the primary online destination for Suzuki’s U.S. motorcycle, scooter, ATV and genuine accessories customers.
And, now, Suzuki Motor Corporation, parent company of Suzuki Motor of America, Inc., is set to launch its new Suzuki Motorcycle Global Salon (Global Salon), a next-generation communications platform that fans of Suzuki motorcycles may visit starting on February 5, 2021.
The Global Salon allows users to view motorcycles ‘on display’ in a virtual environment from the comfort of their own home, as though visiting a Suzuki dealership or motorcycle show, and also enjoy the unveiling of brand new Suzuki models.
When browsing the models on display, users may view Suzuki technical information and configure machines to suit their individual preferences, including colors and accessories. They can also interact with fellow visitors to the Global Salon.
Suzuki Motor Corporation will also look to host future new model launches within the Global Salon platform, with fans from around the world able to virtually attend and witness the introduction of new Suzuki bikes as they are introduced, in real-time.
Registration opens at 11:00 PM (PST) on January 27, 2021, with the grand opening taking place on February 5, 2021.
Joe Roberts (16) testing on an American Racing Triumph-powered Kalex Moto2 racebike at Jerez in early 2020. Photo by DPPI Media.
Featured In the January 2021 issue of Roadracing World:
American Joe Roberts had a breakout year in 2020. Competing in his third season in the FIM Moto2 World Championship, Roberts claimed three pole positions, one podium finish, and finished seventh in the final Championship points; landed a ride replacing outgoing 2020 Moto2 World Champion Enea Bastianini at Italtrans Racing; and got an offer to join the Aprilia MotoGP team.
We caught up with Roberts after he returned home to California for the first time in five months, and asked how he felt about his 2020 season.
“Seventh in the World Championship, that sounds pretty good to me. I think last season (2019) I only scored four points, and this season I scored 94. The whole season, we had such a great year …”
—Interviews: Americans In Moto2, by David Swarts
Joe Roberts and five-time MotoAmerica Superbike Champion Cameron Beaubier are slated to race in the Moto2 World Championship in 2021, giving the U.S. its strongest presence in international-level racing in years. How are they approaching the upcoming season? Read the details 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 Technologywith 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
Army of Darkness (99) will be on DIABLO™ Superbike slicks in 2021. Photo by Apex Pro Photography, courtesy Pirelli.
Army of Darkness Race Team Joins Forces with Pirelli for the 2021 Racing Season
AOD Yamaha R1-Equipped with DIABLO™ Superbike Slicks Seeks 16th National Title
ROME, Ga. – Pirelli Tire North America has announced a new partnership that will see the Army of Darkness (AOD) racing team equipped with Pirelli DIABLO™ Superbike slicks for the 2021-racing season. Founded in 1993, AOD is the longest running endurance motorcycle road racing team in America and have captured an impressive 15 national championships. The AOD Yamaha YZF-R1® machine will be fitted with DIABLO Superbike slicks, specifically using the new, larger 125/70-17 and 200/65-17 sizing.
“The Army of Darkness racing team has an impressive record that speaks for itself,” said Oscar Solis, road racing manager, Pirelli. “I feel that this is the perfect time to spotlight our newer World Superbike and World Supersport tires in the endurance race series. The AOD team will be running the new, larger sized Pirelli DIABLO™ Superbike slicks that have proven to be more durable with the additional grip. I am very excited about the new partnership and to see what we can do together on the racetrack.”
For 2021, AOD will have its sights set on returning to the WERA/N2 National Endurance series and look to defend the championship that it captured this past year. Pirelli’s DIABLO Superbike range of tires, including the new, larger sizing, has been developed through the brand’s role as the official tire supplier for the World Superbike Championship the past 17 seasons. Pirelli continues to pride itself on the motto “we race what we sell, we sell what we race”, meaning that riders competing in both local and national championships can purchase the same tires used in the world championship through their local Pirelli trackside vendor.
“Army of Darkness has won 15 national endurance championships, and each year, it has required effort to figure out a way to improve our average lap time from the previous year,” said Sam Fleming, team captain, Army of Darkness. “Of course, constant improvement is what racing is all about! Pirelli has always embraced this racing ethos and have innovated with new tire sizes, compounds, and construction. Their efforts yielded a number of new lap records across the USA in 2020. We were both, humbled and honored, when Pirelli partnered with us for what is sure to be our most challenging season ever in the WERA/N2 National Endurance series. We hope to put Pirelli’s rubber to good use as we set out to defend our championship. As my friends know, the ‘Q’ in my name is for Quarelli and I have a large family in Northern Italy. They will be very pleased that we will be flying the Italian flag, il Tricolore, even if it’s in black.”
To learn more about the Army of Darkness race team, Click Here.
For more information about the complete line of Pirelli motorcycle tires, please visit Pirelli.com
Suzuki Motor of America, Inc. Debuts an All-New Website for the Motorcycle Division
Brea, CA – Suzuki Motor of America, Inc. is thrilled to announce an all-new website at SuzukiCycles.com. This new Suzuki website has been completely rebuilt to provide a more responsive and engaging consumer online experience; and features the entire line of Suzuki motorcycles, scooters, ATVs and genuine accessories.
SuzukiCycles.com has been built from the ground up to include a host of new features, stunning photography, new video elements, and all the specifications and Suzuki product information to help riders explore, learn, and experience the complete Suzuki line-up.
“We are very excited to launch this brand new website,” said Kerry Graeber, Vice President MC/ATV Sales and Marketing. “The new SuzukiCycles.com delivers a fresh, new, and more dynamic site that not only provides information, but also gives consumers a rich and engaging experience on everything about Suzuki motorcycles and ATVs.”
The new website has been created with a focus on delivering a wealth of content that is easily accessible for all devices including mobile and will help riders conduct the research, request a price quote from, and find their nearest Suzuki dealer.
The start of the 2019 Daytona 200. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
The 79th Daytona 200 and ASRA/CCS Bikeweek Events March 2021
Ladies and Gentlemen, this is the moment we’ve been waiting for since March 13, 2020! We have been given the word that the 2021 Bike Week event is a go which means we finally get to run the 79th Daytona 200.
With AFT moving their events to the Volusia County Speedway, this opens the Blue garages to over-flow rentals once the Yellow garages are full. ASRA/CCS will be based in the Yellow garages and Tech will take place in the Inspection Bay between the garages behind pit road.
Here are the appropriate forms for entry to the Daytona 200.
79th Daytona 200 sanctioned by ASRA – March 13, 2021
Circuit of The Americas. Photo courtesy Circuit of The Americas.
2021 FIM MotoGP™ World Championship provisional calendar updated
Two races in Qatar and one in Portimão will now open the season, with the Argentina and Americas GPs postponed
Friday, 22 January 2021
The FIM, IRTA and Dorna Sports can now reveal an updated calendar for the 2021 FIM MotoGP™ World Championship as the beginning of another exciting season of racing appears on the horizon, with testing action set to get underway in just over a month.
The season opening Grand Prix in Qatar remains confirmed for the 26th to the 28th of March and it will now be followed by a second event, the Grand Prix of Doha, at the same Losail International Circuit the following weekend, from the 2nd to the 4th of April.
The Autodromo Internacional do Algarve in Portugal will then host the third round of the Championship from the 16th to the 18th of April before the paddock heads to the Circuito de Jerez-Angel Nieto as previously planned.
The ongoing Covid-19 pandemic and resulting lockdowns and complications sadly oblige the postponement of both the Argentina GP and the Americas GP until the last quarter of 2021. Any further updates or changes will be provided as soon as available.
Updated 2021 FIM MotoGP World Championship Schedule (January 22):
Date Venue Country
March 26-28 Losail International Circuit, Qatar*
April 2-4 Losail International Circuit, Qatar*
April 16-18 Algarve International Circuit, Portugal
April 30-May 2 Circuito de Jerez, Spain
May 14-16 Le Mans, France
May 28-30 Autodromo del Mugello, Italy
June 4-6 Barcelona – Catalunya, Spain
June 18-20 Sachsenring, Germany
June 25-27 TT Circuit Assen, Netherlands
July 9-11 KymiRing, Finland **
August 13-15 Red Bull Ring – Spielberg, Austria
August 27-29 Silverstone Circuit, UK
September 10-12 MotorLand Aragón, Spain
September 17-19 Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli, San Marino
October 1-3 Twin Ring Motegi, Japan
October 8-10 Chang International Circuit, Thailand
October 22-24 Phillip Island, Australia
October 29-31 Sepang International Circuit, Malaysia
November 12-14 Circuit Ricardo Tormo, Spain
Postponed Grands Prix to be rescheduled subject to the pandemic:
Termas de Río Hondo, Argentina
Circuit of the Americas, U.S.A.
Reserve Grand Prix Venues:
Mandalika International Street Circuit, Indonesia**
* Evening Race
** Subject to Homologation
There will be a maximum of 20 events in the 2021 season. All dates, events and the attendance of spectators are subject to the evolution of the pandemic and the approval of the corresponding Governments and authorities.
Tryg "Pops" Westby on his Spondon-framed Honda CBX. Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy Westby Racing.
Tulsa, OK – January 21, 2021 – For fans who have attended MotoAmerica races and spent any time around the Westby Racing team transporter, you know that team owner Tryg Westby always has some interesting motorcycles to look at…along with the team’s #11 Westby Racing Yamaha YZF-R1 Superbike, of course. Whether it’s Tryg’s restored 1924 Harley-Davidson Model 24 JD and replica sidecar rig, his Spondon-framed Honda CBX, or his 1968 Yamaha YL-1 Twin Jet 100, he loves his wheels just as much as the fans and everyone else in the MotoAmerica paddock do.
That love has spawned a new video series called “Pops’ Shop,” which is being produced in cooperation with MotoAmerica. In each episode, Tryg personally presents something from his eclectic collection of motorcycles and cars. Tryg writes his own scripts, team technician Dustin Meador is the videographer, and Tryg’s daughter Scarlett does the editing with assistance from the content team at MotoAmerica.
Episode one is finished, and you can view it here:
Look for more episodes of Pops’ Shop in the coming weeks and months.
For more updates about Westby Racing, including news, photos, and videos, follow “Westby Racing” on your favorite social media sites. Also, visit https://www.WestbyRacing.com
To celebrate its 100th anniversary, Moto Guzzi is producing selected 2021 models in a "special centennial celebratory livery." Seen here are (from left) a V85 TT, a V7 Stone, and a V9 Bobber. Photo courtesy Moto Guzzi.
WITH 2021, THE YEAR OF MOTO GUZZI’S CENTENNIAL IS LAUNCHED
TO CELEBRATE ONE HUNDRED YEARS OF THE EAGLE, THE GMG – GIORNATE MONDIALI MOTO GUZZI ARE BACK, FROM 9 THROUGH 12 SEPTEMBER IN MANDELLO DEL LARIO, WITH AN EXTRAORDINARY EDITION
A SPECIAL CENTENNIAL CELEBRATORY LIVERY IS UNVEILED, PRODUCED IN AN EXCLUSIVE EDITION ONLY IN 2021 AND INSPIRED BY THE LEGENDARY OTTO CILINDRI, AVAILABLE ON ALL MODELS
A century of history, one hundred years of spectacular motorcycles, victories, adventures and iconic characters who have built the legend of the Eagle Brand.
Moto Guzzi celebrates this extraordinary birthday with a 2021 full of initiatives that will culminate in the GMG – Giornate Mondiali Moto Guzzi, scheduled to be held in Mandello del Lario from 9 through 12 September.
The GMG – Giornate Mondiali Moto Guzzi are always a must-attend event for any enthusiast and, eagerly anticipated, they are back ten years after the last edition. Tens of thousands of enthusiasts will flock from all over the world to experience a unique and unforgettable event, made possible by the collaboration between Moto Guzzi, Motoraduno Internazionale Committee and the municipality of Mandello del Lario.
For such a special occasion, Moto Guzzi will produce a limited series of their models in a special Centennial Livery, which will be available on V7, V9 and V85 TT only throughout 2021.
A 2021 Moto Guzzi V85 TT in the special centennial livery. Photo courtesy Moto Guzzi.
An exclusive, elegant and attractive colour scheme, evocative of a unique heritage, drawing its origins from the aesthetics of legendary bikes which made motorcycling history, first and foremost, the Otto Cilindri of 1955. A mad and visionary idea, an extraordinary bike created to compete in the World Championship 500 class, a project so bold that it was ten years ahead of all global motorcycle production.
This milestone in motorbike history has an extremely elegant colour scheme in its purely racing essence, combining the satin-finished metal of the fuel tank with the green of the fairing and the leather on the seat. Colours that also characterised the 350 Bialbero, one of the most victorious bikes in history, the unbeatable dominator of the 350 class in World Championship GP Motorcycle Racing, with the amazing record of 9 consecutive world titles (5 Rider and 4 Manufacturer) from 1953 to 1957.
Green was also the first colour “worn” by a Moto Guzzi with the Normale, the first model, and probably the most iconic of the Eagle’s colours. The Style Centre reinterpreted it in a modern approach with a matt finish and associated with metallic colours the express the solidity and authenticity of the Larian brand. The body colours are matched with a saddle covered with a natural coloured material, like that of leather, to highlight the typically Italian attention to detail.
Other distinguishing details are the eagle in a gold finish and the dedicated logo that graphically celebrates Moto Guzzi’s 100 years.
A 2021 Moto Guzzi V7 Stone in the special centennial livery. Photo courtesy Moto Guzzi.
100 YEARS OF HISTORY FOR THE MOST AUTHENTIC BRAND OF GLOBAL MOTORCYCLING
More specifically, it was 15 March 1921 when the “Società Anonima Moto Guzzi” was established with the goal of “Manufacturing and sales of motorcycles and any other activity pertinent or connected to the metal mechanical industry”. And it was precisely in that moment, in memory of one of the founders’ brothers in arms, that the eagle with spread wings was chosen as the new company’s symbol. Since then, the eagle, which quickly gained notoriety all over the world, has been Moto Guzzi’s symbol.
And so, the operational headquarters were opened in Mandello del Lario – in the same plant where Moto Guzzi are still produced to this day – an industrial enterprise that had marked the history of global motorcycling through bikes that have become a part of the collective imagination such as the GT 500 Norge (1928) ridden to the Arctic Circle by Giuseppe Guzzi, brother of founder Carlo, the Airone 250 (1939), the Galletto (1950) which contributed to mass motorisation in the postwar period.
In those years, the wind tunnel was opened – the first in the world in the motorcycling segment, which can still be visited in the Mandello plant – greatly desired by a close-knit team that included extraordinary engineers the likes of Umberto Todero, Enrico Cantoni and a designer who would soon become a legend: Milan native Giulio Cesare Carcano, father of the incredible 285 km/hour Otto Cilindri (in 1955) and the prototypes which, between 1935 and 1957, won no fewer than 15 world speed titles and 11 Tourist Trophies.
In the ’60s, after the Stornello and Dingo light motorcycles, Moto Guzzi breathed life into the 700cc 90° V-twin with cardan shaft final drive, destined to become the very symbol of the Manufacturer from Mandello through legendary models like the V7 Special, V7 Sport, California and Le Mans. This engine has been consistently evolved on this architecture, all the way to driving, supported by the most advanced electronic control features, the most popular modern Moto Guzzis such as the V7 and V9 range in the Roamer and Bobber versions and the V85 TT traveller, the first ever classic enduro in the world.
Availability USA:
V7 Stone 100th Anniversary: MSRP $9,190 – arrival end of March 2021
V9 Bobber 100th Anniversary: MSRP $10,690 – arrival July 2021
V85TT Adventure 100th Anniversary: MSRP $13,190 – arrival end of April 2021
Availability Canada:
V7 Stone 100th Anniversary: MSRP $11,390 – arrival end of April 2021
V85TT Adventure 100th Anniversary: MSRP $15,390 – arrival end of May 2021
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November 11, 2026
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