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Aprilia’s New RSV4 Gets Bigger Engine, Better Aero Package

NEW APRILIA RSV4
 

APRILIA RSV4 AND RSV4 FACTORY

INTRODUCING ON APRILIA.COM WEB PAGES THE FIRST IMAGES OF THE NEW RSV4, EVOLUTION OF AN EXTRAORDINARY AND VICTORIOUS PROJECT, UNIQUE IN THE WORLD

NEW DESIGN WITH BUILT-IN WINGLETS, ENGINE AND ELECTRONICS EVOLUTION, NEW ERGONOMICS FOR EVEN HIGHER PERFORMANCE LEVELS

NEW APRILIA RSV4, THE UNDISPUTED POINT OF REFERENCE FOR SUPERBIKES

The history of the Aprilia RSV4 is one of the most fascinating motorcycle stories in the world. Built with the goal of winning on the track and in every comparative test, it has dominated for a decade, earning the approval of critics and titles in every category in which it has raced. In its most extreme evolution, it even raced in the MotoGP World Championship.

This is the demonstration of an incredibly far-sighted design in a sector where motorcycles are the result of the best technology available to the manufacturer. The Aprilia RSV4 has been constantly updated and refined over time, consistently remaining the reference point for sportiness and performance, the best example of what can be achieved by exploiting the valuable experience of a victorious Racing Department like Aprilia’s, which in its brief history has taken 54 championship titles, including seven achieved in the world SBK championship specifically with the RSV4.

On display for its global première online at APRILIA.COM, now a new RSV4 has been born, profoundly revamped, beginning with the aesthetics.

The new design is the result of a great deal of work done in terms of applied aerodynamics, confirming Aprilia’s commitment to studying increasingly complex and innovative solutions. The style, inspired by the ultra modern RS 660, and the shapes modelled in the wind tunnel allow an extremely low aerodynamic resistance coefficient, with a significant benefit in terms of performance at high speeds, also increasing the air pressure in the airbox, which all increases downforce.

The winglets are no longer an additional element on the panels, but are built into the double-wall fairings, a solution that optimises stability at high speeds and simultaneously improves engine cooling, diverting the hot air flows from the rider, in addition to representing a highly aesthetic feature.

The triple LED front headlight unit, featuring perimeter DRL lights represents the lighting signature of Aprilia sport bikes and includes the “bending lights” function: the pair of supplementary lights that illuminate the inside of the turn, increasing visibility when cornering.

The ergonomics are entirely new and improved thanks to the new fuel tank and the new saddle that allow the rider to fit perfectly with the fairings, more on board space and a more natural and relaxed riding position. The electrical controls are more functional and intuitive, and the new TFT instrumentation is larger and more complete. Thanks to the new Marelli 11MP ECU and the new, six-axis inertial platform, both more powerful, electronic management has improved with control of the full Ride-by-Wire throttle and the APRC operating logic has also been refined. The exclusive suite of Aprilia electronic controls has also been completed with the introduction of the multi-level engine brake control. There are now six Riding Modes, three for the track (including two customisable) and three for the road (including one customisable): the rider just needs to choose the Riding Mode that best interprets his or her riding needs to automatically obtain the best settings in terms of Traction Control, Wheelie Control, engine brake, ABS and the other managed parameters.

The ultra fine chassis architecture, heir to a victorious dynasty that boasts 18 world titles and 143 Grand Prix races in the 250 class, has undergone a drastic change with the new swingarm, lighter and with a reinforced lower brace, inspired by the one on the Aprilia RS-GP used in MotoGP, designed to lower masses and increase the stability of the rear end in acceleration.

The first mass-produced, high performance narrow V4 in the world, the most revolutionary and powerful engine ever built by Aprilia, despite the Euro 5 emissions approval, gains more torque and confirms its exceptional maximum power level of 217 HP, thanks to targeted operations that include the new exhaust system and the increased effective engine displacement, previously 1,077 cc and now 1,099 cc.

Two versions are available: RSV4 (only in the Dark Losail colour scheme) and RSV4 Factory (in the two Aprilia Black and Lava Red colour schemes). Both versions are powered by the revamped 1,099 cc V4 engine, but they can be distinguished by the standard equipment which, for the Factory, includes forged aluminium wheel rims, the semi-active Öhlins Smart EC 2.0 suspension system and the Brembo Stylema brake callipers.

 

RSV4

Availability:    US End of March / Canada End of April

Price:              US $18,999 / Canada $20,995

RSV4 FACTORY

Availability:    US End of March / Canada End of April

Price:              US $25,999 / Canada $27,495

MotoGP: Extra Testing Days Added In Qatar

Qatar Test schedule updated 

Two Official Test days and a Shakedown Test have been added to the calendar 

Thursday, 14 January 2021

Following a recent meeting between the Championship organisation and the MotoGP™ Class Teams, changes to the Qatar Test schedule have been agreed. Two extra Official Test days and a Shakedown Test day will now also be held at Losail International Circuit in March, ahead of and in addition to the previously confirmed Qatar Test, allowing the teams extra preparation ahead of the 2021 season.

On the 5th of March, a Shakedown Test will take place in which participation will be limited solely to test riders and MotoGP™ class rookies.

On the 6th and 7th of March, all riders may participate in two extra Official Test days.

The new MotoGP™ class test schedule is therefore as follows:

3rd-4th March: Setup

5th March: Shakedown Test – rookies and test riders only

6th-7th March: Official Test

10th-12th March: Official Test

Any further updates or information will be provided as soon as available.

AMA Names Athletes Of The Year

2020 AMA Racing and Organizer Awards announced

AMA Athletes of the Year, AMA Racers of the Year named

PICKERINGTON, Ohio — The American Motorcyclist Association announces the winners of the 2020 AMA Racing and Organizer Awards, which recognize individuals and organizations that excelled in AMA-sanctioned competition and recreational activity during the calendar year.

AMA members helped select the winners of certain racing categories, including the AMA Athlete of the Year and the AMA Racer of the Year awards.

Multitime AMA Grand National Cross Country Series Champion Kailub Russell captured more than 31 percent of the vote to win AMA Athlete of the Year, National Championship Series. Russell is the all-time leader in two-wheel GNCC victories.

Stilez Robertson, the 2020 Nicky Hayden AMA Motocross Horizon Award winner, picked up AMA Athlete of the Year, Grand Championships. Walker Fowler earned AMA ATV Athlete of the Year, and Ryder DiFrancesco is the AMA Youth Racer of the Year. All three riders collected nearly half of the votes in their category.

Katie Benson, also representing the AMA Amateur National Motocross Championship, edged out fellow motocrosser Jordan Jarvis and AMA Grand National Cross Country Series Champion Becca Sheets for AMA Female Racer of the Year.

GNCC racer Robby Norwood narrowly beat MXer Nicholas Hayes for AMA Veteran/Senior Racer of The Year.

“We are proud to recognize the winners of the 2020 AMA Racing and Organizer Awards,” AMA Director of Racing Mike Pelletier said. “The past year was a trying time for all, and these winners overcame unprecedented challenges and managed to excel.”

Recreational riding organizers were recognized in road-riding and off-road categories, as were volunteers in three categories—rights, riding and racing.

“AMA organizers work tirelessly to conduct safe, enjoyable events,” AMA Director of Member Activity Heather Wilson said. “It’s always difficult to choose just one recipient for an award, because all the nominees are passionate about motorcycling and helping others. We appreciate the opportunities these award winners provided to recreational riders.”

The racing and volunteer awards usually are announced during the AMA Championship Banquet. The 2020 AMA Championship Banquet and AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony—which together are the AMA Championship Weekend event—were canceled due to restrictions related to the coronavirus pandemic.

 

2020 AMA Racing Award Winners

 

AMA Athlete of the Year: National Championship Series

Kailub Russell — Champion, AMA Grand National Cross Country Series

 

AMA Athlete of the Year: Grand Championships

Stilez Robertson — Nicky Hayden AMA Motocross Horizon Award Winner

 

AMA ATV Athlete of the Year

Walker Fowler — Champion, AMA Grand National Cross Country Series

 

AMA Veteran/Senior Racer of the Year

Robby Norwood — Champion, AMA Grand National Cross Country Series

 

AMA Youth Racer of the Year

Ryder DiFrancesco — Champion, AMA Amateur National Motocross Championship

 

AMA Female Racer of the Year

Katie Benson — Champion, AMA Amateur National Motocross Championship

 

2020 AMA Organizer Award Winners

 

Motocross Organizer of the Year

MX Sports Inc., Morgantown, W.Va.

 

Off-Road Racing Organizer of the Year

National Enduro Promotions Group, Eaton Rapids, Mich.

 

Track Racing Organizer of the Year

Pioneer Motorcycle Club, Waterford, Ohio

 

ATV Organizer of the Year

ATV Promoters Group, Morgantown, W.Va.

 

AMA Recreational Road Riding Organizer of the Year

Tour of Honor, Auburn, Calif.

 

AMA Recreational Off-Road Organizer of the Year

Twin Cities Trail Riders, Jordan, Minn.

 

AMA Club of the Year

Metropolitan Sports Committee, East Durham, N.Y.

 

AMA Media Award

MPG Creative Group — Motoplayground

 

AMA Volunteer of the Year — Rights

Tod Peterson, Stanwood, Wash.

 

AMA Volunteer of the Year — Riding

Don Gomo, Rockville Centre, N.Y.

 

AMA Volunteer of the Year — Racing

Gary Spencer, Albany, Ohio

 

About the American Motorcyclist Association

Founded in 1924, the AMA is a not-for-profit member-based association whose mission is to promote the motorcycle lifestyle and protect the future of motorcycling. As the world’s largest motorcycling rights and event sanctioning organization, the AMA advocates for riders’ interests at all levels of government and sanctions thousands of competition and recreational events every year. The AMA also provides money-saving discounts on products and services for its members. Through the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio, the AMA honors the heroes and heritage of motorcycling. For more information, visit americanmotorcyclist.com.

Not a member? Join the AMA today: americanmotorcyclist.com.

MotoGP: Medical Update On Marc Marquez

Marc Marquez undergoes six-week check-up

Today Marc Márquez has gone to the Hospital Ruber Internacional for a medical check-up. The eight-time world champion has visited six weeks after the surgery performed on December 3 for an infected pseudarthrosis of the right humerus. A satisfactory clinical and radiographic evolution has been confirmed for the time of evaluation. Marquez will continue with the specific antibiotic treatment and with a functional recovery programme adapted to his clinical situation.

AMA Hall Of Famer Joël Robert, R.I.P.

AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famer Joël Robert passes

Belgian world champion won seven Trans-AMA Nationals

PICKERINGTON, Ohio — Joël Robert, the legendary Belgian motocross racer who won the 250cc Motocross World Championship six times, including five consecutive titles from 1968 through 1972, has died. He was 77.

 

Joël Robert. Photo courtesy AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum.
Joël Robert. Photo courtesy AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum.

 

Born Nov. 26, 1943 in Châtelet, Belgium, Mr. Robert grew up in a family of motorcycle racers. His father, Fernan, raced speedway events. His uncle and cousin also competed.

“At my birth, my father said, ‘We will make a rider out of him,’” Mr. Robert once recalled during an interview. “At the age of 2, I was able to take a chain off a bike, link by link.”

At 7, Mr. Robert was given his first motorcycle, a Gillet 125.

“I didn’t even reach the foot pegs,” he said. “To start or stop, I needed a wall or a tree to lean against.”

Mr. Robert earned his first 250cc world championship in 1964, riding a privateer CZ. He was just 20 years old, at the time the youngest rider to win a world motocross title.

In 1968, he reclaimed the title by 2 points over Sweden’s Torsten Hallman. Mr. Robert won the title again in 1969 over fellow Belgium and CZ rider Sylvain Geboers.

Mr. Robert won the 1970 250cc Motocross World Championship on a factory Suzuki RH70. It was Suzuki’s first world motocross title, and also the first for a Japanese manufacturer. He would go on to win the world championship again in 1971 and ’72 with Suzuki.

Remembered as one of the most naturally talented motocross riders in history, Mr. Robert won 50 motocross Grands Prix, a record that stood for more than 30 years until it was broken by fellow Belgian Stefan Everts in 2004.

Mr. Robert began traveling to America in 1967, along with other world championship riders, for a series of races against America’s top riders. He won seven Trans-AMA Nationals during the 1970 and ’71 seasons.

After being inducted into the AMA Hall of Fame in 2000, Mr. Robert continued his involvement in motocross acting as manager for Belgium’s Motocross des Nations team.

Mr. Robert’s biography is available at motorcyclemuseum.org/halloffame/detail.aspx?RacerID=92.

About the American Motorcyclist Association

Founded in 1924, the AMA is a not-for-profit member-based association whose mission is to promote the motorcycle lifestyle and protect the future of motorcycling. As the world’s largest motorcycling rights and event sanctioning organization, the AMA advocates for riders’ interests at all levels of government and sanctions thousands of competition and recreational events every year. The AMA also provides money-saving discounts on products and services for its members. Through the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio, the AMA honors the heroes and heritage of motorcycling. For more information, visit americanmotorcyclist.com.

Not a member? Join the AMA today: americanmotorcyclist.com.

MV Agusta’s Design Center Gets Makeover, New Chief Designer

MV AGUSTA’S SAN MARINO STYLING AND ENGINEERING CENTRE GETS TOTAL MAKEOVER AND WELCOMES NEW CHIEF DESIGNER STEPHANE ZACHE

Premises at the CRC have undergone a complete renovation as MV Agusta’s Technical Department and Design Centre merge.

Varese, January 14, 2021 – The Design Studios and Offices in MV Agusta’s Styling and Engineering Centre in San Marino have been refurbished to create a completely new work space for the company’s Technical and Design departments. The two divisions have been merged into a single unit in an effort to optimise and accelerate current processes in the design and development of new projects. CRC has also received new important investments in terms of technologically advanced equipment and instruments which will aid the 30-strong staff of highly specialised designers and engineers to navigate continuously between the physical and virtual environments in real-time.

In addition to Brian Gillen, who heads CRC, Giorgio Mazzotti and Alessandro Volpini, Stephane Zache has joined the Centre’s leadership team in the role of Chief Designer. Zache, a French designer with an impressive background in the motorcycling industry, developed his unique expertise and skills working for numerous motorcycle OEM’s worldwide.

“The renovations in CRC are focused on creating a new working environment to further stimulate the creativity and efficiency of our extremely talented team, who constitute the real backbone of an institute that is renowned and respected worldwide. I welcome Stephane Zache as a valued new addition to the CRC leadership team” said Brian Gillen, R&D Director, MV Agusta and CRC, “Imagining, designing, engineering and constructing the most beautiful bikes in the world is the focus of CRC. I am immensely proud of leading this extraordinary team which continues to drive the future of motorcycling.”.

AHRMA: 500 Premier Grand Prix Featured In 2021 Vintage Cup

Classic big-bore GP bikes featured class for AHRMA

(Elora, Tennessee) A Golden Age of Grand Prix motorcycle racing will be the focus of the 2021 American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association (AHRMA) National Historic Cup Road Race Series.

“Not content with merely racing at the finest circuits nationwide, AHRMA is giving a big boost to big bikes from the 1960s by making our 500 Premier Grand Prix class the featured class for 2021,” said Arthur Kowitz, chairman of the AHRMA Board of Trustees.

Competitors in the 500 Premier class will be racing not only for a class championship but also to win the 2021 AHRMA Vintage Cup. “The AHRMA Vintage Cup is our annual featured class that includes enhanced awards, press coverage and opportunities for team and rider exposure,” said Alex Mock, AHRMA Roadrace Director.

500 Premier is sponsored by NYC Norton and RoadracingWorld.com. The class is open to Grand Prix-type motorcycles displacing up to 500cc and produced through 1968. It showcased storied Grand Prix motorcycles from the post-war era, including the Manx Norton, Matchless G50, BSA Goldstar, Benelli Four and MV Agusta triples.

“500 Premier was one of the first racing classes created when AHRMA was formed and is still one of the most competitive vintage road racing classes on our current schedule,” said Kenny Cummings, owner of NYC Norton. “There is nothing comparable to the sight and sound of a 500cc big single roaring past the crowd on the front straight at 8k rpm.”

Cummings explained that many motorcycles eligible to compete in 500 Premier are considered too valuable for their natural environment – the racetrack.  “We’d like to encourage anyone who might have a Premier-era machine to bring it back out to race with us in 2021,” Cummings said. “And if you’re not up to speed, then put the fastest ‘kid’ you know on your beloved machine and let it live.”

Notable professional and privateer racers including World Champion Kevin Schwantz, Peter Politiek, Pat Mooney and Tim Joyce have each competed in the 500 Premier class.

The enhanced awards for the 2021 Vintage Cup series will be presented separately from other class trophies during the awards ceremony at each AHRMA National Historic Cup Roadrace event. Highlights from each 500 Premier race will be reported in RoadracingWorld.com’s online edition. At the conclusion of the 2021 season, the perpetual Vintage Cup trophy will be engraved with the national champion winner’s name and presented to the winner to keep for one year.

Select AHRMA events during 2021 will feature multiple on and off-road competition disciplines including: road racing, motocross, flat track, observed trials and cross country, all at the same venue. These AHRMA Classic MotoFest multi-discipline events will take place at Heartland Motorsports Park, Topeka, Kansas; Weathertech Raceway Laguna Seca in Monterey, California; and at the 2021 Barber Vintage Festival held at the Barber Motorsports Park in Birmingham, Alabama.

“Multi-discipline events always draw strong participation, as many AHRMA members cross over into other two-wheeled competitions, which is a draw not only for rider participation but for fans as well,” said Curtis Comer, AHRMA Executive Director.

AHRMA (American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to preserving, restoring and competing on historic motorcycles. With over 3000 members, AHRMA is the leading historic motorcycle racing group in North America and one of the largest in the world. The association’s enthusiastic membership reflects this country’s strong interest in classic bikes.

 

 

Triumph Daytona Moto2 765 Limited Edition, In The January Issue

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Featured In the January 2021 issue of Roadracing World: 

        The intent of the Triumph Daytona Moto2 765 Limited Edition is obvious from the moment you walk up to it and sit on it.

        “It’s got the carbon-fiber (bodywork), so it looks the part. Hopping on the motorcycle, it’s got the clip-ons angled down steeply. You sit on it, and it has that racing feel to it. It feels like a racebike,” says Racing Editor Chris Ulrich. 

        Despite the branding, it’s not a Moto2 racebike. It’s a streetbike. But it’s like a streetbike after buying a lot of high-quality racing parts and paying a reputable race shop to install them and tune to suit.

        Triumph engineers set out to design a motorcycle that would work as well on the street as it did on the track (and vice versa), with a reliable engine that could be upgraded to be the spec powerplant for Moto2 World Championship racing…

—Quick Look: 2021 Triumph Daytona Moto2 765 Limited Edition, by Michael Gougis

            Middleweight mass, heavyweight torque and competent suspension and brakes make the Triumph Daytona Moto2 765 not only a fun street ride, but a bike that is easy to ride hard on the track, straight off the showroom floor. Take a look at the machine with the engine that powers the Moto2 World Championship – it’s 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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AHRMA: Alex Mock Named New Roadrace Director

The American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association (AHRMA) is pleased to introduce the newest member of our team, AHRMA Roadrace Director Alex Mock.  Based in Corona, California, Alex brings broad experience in race operations, timing and scoring, and race promotions, having been head of race operations and promoter of the Supermoto National Championship Series, Roland Sands Design SuperHooligans and more. In addition, he has proven success in securing series and event sponsorships.

Alex shares that, “What I bring to the table is my ability to multitask on race operations and my understanding of timing and scoring. My main focus is on track safety while adhering to the race schedule.”

He will use his expertise and skills in race operations to lead and grow the team of AHRMA staff and volunteers who make vintage road racing possible.

Alex also holds a certification as a race coach with U.S. Motorcycle Coaching Association (USMCA).

When Alex is not busy traveling to race events all over the country, he enjoys spending all the time he can with his wife Andrea and their two daughters Violet and Coco. Alex introduced Violet to two wheels on the Strider 2 into1 rocking bike and she is now riding her own path to a very fun life on two wheels. The Mocks do everything together outdoors including skiing in the winter months and hitting the beach throughout the year as much as they can.

“I’m very excited to be a part of AHRMA and looking forward to the first race of the season at Roebling Road,” Alex said.

AHRMA (American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to preserving, restoring and competing on historic motorcycles. With over 3000 members, AHRMA is the leading historic motorcycle racing group in North America and one of the largest in the world. The association’s enthusiastic membership reflects this country’s strong interest in classic bikes.

MotoAmerica: No Superbike Superpole In 2021

MotoAmerica is doing away with the Superpole qualifying session for the Superbike class in 2021.

In recent seasons, the top nine Superbike riders, based on their times from Qualifying Practices One and Two, used a 15-minute Superpole session to determine who would line up where on the front three rows of the grid.

Now, grid spots for Superbike Race One will be determined by lap times recorded by riders in any Qualifying Practice session. Dunlop’s super-sticky rear qualifying tires will still be available for use but only during a session designated on the official tire allotment document for each event.

Also new for 2021, the grid spots for Superbike Race Two will be determined by the finishing order of Race One, but in the event of a crash, mechanical issue, or other problem, no rider can drop more than eight grid positions for Race Two.

One other significant change in the 2021 rules is an increased minimum weight limit in Supersport for 2013-2021 Kawasaki ZX-6R motorcycles, which have 636cc engines as opposed to the 599cc engines in most of the other machines in the class. In 2021, Kawasakis must weigh no less than 165 kg (363.0 pounds), which is 4.0 kg (8.8 pounds) more than the minimum weight limit for 599cc machines, 161 kg (354.2 pounds).

Also included in the 2021 MotoAmerica rulebook are proposed future technical rule changes for the Superbike class. MotoAmerica, following the lead of the FIM Superbike World Championship, is considering putting restrictions and price caps on forks, shocks, swingarms, and braking components beginning in 2023 in an apparent move to save costs.

Aprilia’s New RSV4 Gets Bigger Engine, Better Aero Package

A 2021 Aprilia RSV4. Photo courtesy Aprilia.
A 2021 Aprilia RSV4. Photo courtesy Aprilia.

NEW APRILIA RSV4
 

APRILIA RSV4 AND RSV4 FACTORY

INTRODUCING ON APRILIA.COM WEB PAGES THE FIRST IMAGES OF THE NEW RSV4, EVOLUTION OF AN EXTRAORDINARY AND VICTORIOUS PROJECT, UNIQUE IN THE WORLD

NEW DESIGN WITH BUILT-IN WINGLETS, ENGINE AND ELECTRONICS EVOLUTION, NEW ERGONOMICS FOR EVEN HIGHER PERFORMANCE LEVELS

NEW APRILIA RSV4, THE UNDISPUTED POINT OF REFERENCE FOR SUPERBIKES

The history of the Aprilia RSV4 is one of the most fascinating motorcycle stories in the world. Built with the goal of winning on the track and in every comparative test, it has dominated for a decade, earning the approval of critics and titles in every category in which it has raced. In its most extreme evolution, it even raced in the MotoGP World Championship.

This is the demonstration of an incredibly far-sighted design in a sector where motorcycles are the result of the best technology available to the manufacturer. The Aprilia RSV4 has been constantly updated and refined over time, consistently remaining the reference point for sportiness and performance, the best example of what can be achieved by exploiting the valuable experience of a victorious Racing Department like Aprilia’s, which in its brief history has taken 54 championship titles, including seven achieved in the world SBK championship specifically with the RSV4.

On display for its global première online at APRILIA.COM, now a new RSV4 has been born, profoundly revamped, beginning with the aesthetics.

The new design is the result of a great deal of work done in terms of applied aerodynamics, confirming Aprilia’s commitment to studying increasingly complex and innovative solutions. The style, inspired by the ultra modern RS 660, and the shapes modelled in the wind tunnel allow an extremely low aerodynamic resistance coefficient, with a significant benefit in terms of performance at high speeds, also increasing the air pressure in the airbox, which all increases downforce.

The winglets are no longer an additional element on the panels, but are built into the double-wall fairings, a solution that optimises stability at high speeds and simultaneously improves engine cooling, diverting the hot air flows from the rider, in addition to representing a highly aesthetic feature.

The triple LED front headlight unit, featuring perimeter DRL lights represents the lighting signature of Aprilia sport bikes and includes the “bending lights” function: the pair of supplementary lights that illuminate the inside of the turn, increasing visibility when cornering.

The ergonomics are entirely new and improved thanks to the new fuel tank and the new saddle that allow the rider to fit perfectly with the fairings, more on board space and a more natural and relaxed riding position. The electrical controls are more functional and intuitive, and the new TFT instrumentation is larger and more complete. Thanks to the new Marelli 11MP ECU and the new, six-axis inertial platform, both more powerful, electronic management has improved with control of the full Ride-by-Wire throttle and the APRC operating logic has also been refined. The exclusive suite of Aprilia electronic controls has also been completed with the introduction of the multi-level engine brake control. There are now six Riding Modes, three for the track (including two customisable) and three for the road (including one customisable): the rider just needs to choose the Riding Mode that best interprets his or her riding needs to automatically obtain the best settings in terms of Traction Control, Wheelie Control, engine brake, ABS and the other managed parameters.

The ultra fine chassis architecture, heir to a victorious dynasty that boasts 18 world titles and 143 Grand Prix races in the 250 class, has undergone a drastic change with the new swingarm, lighter and with a reinforced lower brace, inspired by the one on the Aprilia RS-GP used in MotoGP, designed to lower masses and increase the stability of the rear end in acceleration.

The first mass-produced, high performance narrow V4 in the world, the most revolutionary and powerful engine ever built by Aprilia, despite the Euro 5 emissions approval, gains more torque and confirms its exceptional maximum power level of 217 HP, thanks to targeted operations that include the new exhaust system and the increased effective engine displacement, previously 1,077 cc and now 1,099 cc.

Two versions are available: RSV4 (only in the Dark Losail colour scheme) and RSV4 Factory (in the two Aprilia Black and Lava Red colour schemes). Both versions are powered by the revamped 1,099 cc V4 engine, but they can be distinguished by the standard equipment which, for the Factory, includes forged aluminium wheel rims, the semi-active Öhlins Smart EC 2.0 suspension system and the Brembo Stylema brake callipers.

 

RSV4

Availability:    US End of March / Canada End of April

Price:              US $18,999 / Canada $20,995

RSV4 FACTORY

Availability:    US End of March / Canada End of April

Price:              US $25,999 / Canada $27,495

MotoGP: Extra Testing Days Added In Qatar

Maverick Vinales (12) at speed under the lights in Qatar. Photo courtesy of Monster Energy Yamaha.
Maverick Vinales (12) during pre-season testing in Qatar in 2020. Photo courtesy of Monster Energy Yamaha.

Qatar Test schedule updated 

Two Official Test days and a Shakedown Test have been added to the calendar 

Thursday, 14 January 2021

Following a recent meeting between the Championship organisation and the MotoGP™ Class Teams, changes to the Qatar Test schedule have been agreed. Two extra Official Test days and a Shakedown Test day will now also be held at Losail International Circuit in March, ahead of and in addition to the previously confirmed Qatar Test, allowing the teams extra preparation ahead of the 2021 season.

On the 5th of March, a Shakedown Test will take place in which participation will be limited solely to test riders and MotoGP™ class rookies.

On the 6th and 7th of March, all riders may participate in two extra Official Test days.

The new MotoGP™ class test schedule is therefore as follows:

3rd-4th March: Setup

5th March: Shakedown Test – rookies and test riders only

6th-7th March: Official Test

10th-12th March: Official Test

Any further updates or information will be provided as soon as available.

AMA Names Athletes Of The Year

Stilez Robertson, the 2020 AMA Athlere of the Year - Grand Championships. Photo by Ken Hill, courtesy AMA.
Stilez Robertson, the 2020 AMA Athlete of the Year - Grand Championships. Photo by Ken Hill, courtesy AMA.

2020 AMA Racing and Organizer Awards announced

AMA Athletes of the Year, AMA Racers of the Year named

PICKERINGTON, Ohio — The American Motorcyclist Association announces the winners of the 2020 AMA Racing and Organizer Awards, which recognize individuals and organizations that excelled in AMA-sanctioned competition and recreational activity during the calendar year.

AMA members helped select the winners of certain racing categories, including the AMA Athlete of the Year and the AMA Racer of the Year awards.

Multitime AMA Grand National Cross Country Series Champion Kailub Russell captured more than 31 percent of the vote to win AMA Athlete of the Year, National Championship Series. Russell is the all-time leader in two-wheel GNCC victories.

Stilez Robertson, the 2020 Nicky Hayden AMA Motocross Horizon Award winner, picked up AMA Athlete of the Year, Grand Championships. Walker Fowler earned AMA ATV Athlete of the Year, and Ryder DiFrancesco is the AMA Youth Racer of the Year. All three riders collected nearly half of the votes in their category.

Katie Benson, also representing the AMA Amateur National Motocross Championship, edged out fellow motocrosser Jordan Jarvis and AMA Grand National Cross Country Series Champion Becca Sheets for AMA Female Racer of the Year.

GNCC racer Robby Norwood narrowly beat MXer Nicholas Hayes for AMA Veteran/Senior Racer of The Year.

“We are proud to recognize the winners of the 2020 AMA Racing and Organizer Awards,” AMA Director of Racing Mike Pelletier said. “The past year was a trying time for all, and these winners overcame unprecedented challenges and managed to excel.”

Recreational riding organizers were recognized in road-riding and off-road categories, as were volunteers in three categories—rights, riding and racing.

“AMA organizers work tirelessly to conduct safe, enjoyable events,” AMA Director of Member Activity Heather Wilson said. “It’s always difficult to choose just one recipient for an award, because all the nominees are passionate about motorcycling and helping others. We appreciate the opportunities these award winners provided to recreational riders.”

The racing and volunteer awards usually are announced during the AMA Championship Banquet. The 2020 AMA Championship Banquet and AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony—which together are the AMA Championship Weekend event—were canceled due to restrictions related to the coronavirus pandemic.

 

2020 AMA Racing Award Winners

 

AMA Athlete of the Year: National Championship Series

Kailub Russell — Champion, AMA Grand National Cross Country Series

 

AMA Athlete of the Year: Grand Championships

Stilez Robertson — Nicky Hayden AMA Motocross Horizon Award Winner

 

AMA ATV Athlete of the Year

Walker Fowler — Champion, AMA Grand National Cross Country Series

 

AMA Veteran/Senior Racer of the Year

Robby Norwood — Champion, AMA Grand National Cross Country Series

 

AMA Youth Racer of the Year

Ryder DiFrancesco — Champion, AMA Amateur National Motocross Championship

 

AMA Female Racer of the Year

Katie Benson — Champion, AMA Amateur National Motocross Championship

 

2020 AMA Organizer Award Winners

 

Motocross Organizer of the Year

MX Sports Inc., Morgantown, W.Va.

 

Off-Road Racing Organizer of the Year

National Enduro Promotions Group, Eaton Rapids, Mich.

 

Track Racing Organizer of the Year

Pioneer Motorcycle Club, Waterford, Ohio

 

ATV Organizer of the Year

ATV Promoters Group, Morgantown, W.Va.

 

AMA Recreational Road Riding Organizer of the Year

Tour of Honor, Auburn, Calif.

 

AMA Recreational Off-Road Organizer of the Year

Twin Cities Trail Riders, Jordan, Minn.

 

AMA Club of the Year

Metropolitan Sports Committee, East Durham, N.Y.

 

AMA Media Award

MPG Creative Group — Motoplayground

 

AMA Volunteer of the Year — Rights

Tod Peterson, Stanwood, Wash.

 

AMA Volunteer of the Year — Riding

Don Gomo, Rockville Centre, N.Y.

 

AMA Volunteer of the Year — Racing

Gary Spencer, Albany, Ohio

 

About the American Motorcyclist Association

Founded in 1924, the AMA is a not-for-profit member-based association whose mission is to promote the motorcycle lifestyle and protect the future of motorcycling. As the world’s largest motorcycling rights and event sanctioning organization, the AMA advocates for riders’ interests at all levels of government and sanctions thousands of competition and recreational events every year. The AMA also provides money-saving discounts on products and services for its members. Through the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio, the AMA honors the heroes and heritage of motorcycling. For more information, visit americanmotorcyclist.com.

Not a member? Join the AMA today: americanmotorcyclist.com.

MotoGP: Medical Update On Marc Marquez

Marc Marquez, after qualifying July 18 at Jerez. Photo courtesy Repsol Honda.
Marc Marquez, after qualifying July 18, 2020 at Jerez. Photo courtesy Repsol Honda.

Marc Marquez undergoes six-week check-up

Today Marc Márquez has gone to the Hospital Ruber Internacional for a medical check-up. The eight-time world champion has visited six weeks after the surgery performed on December 3 for an infected pseudarthrosis of the right humerus. A satisfactory clinical and radiographic evolution has been confirmed for the time of evaluation. Marquez will continue with the specific antibiotic treatment and with a functional recovery programme adapted to his clinical situation.

AMA Hall Of Famer Joël Robert, R.I.P.

Joël Robert (1). Photo courtesy AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum.
Joël Robert (1). Photo courtesy AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum.

AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famer Joël Robert passes

Belgian world champion won seven Trans-AMA Nationals

PICKERINGTON, Ohio — Joël Robert, the legendary Belgian motocross racer who won the 250cc Motocross World Championship six times, including five consecutive titles from 1968 through 1972, has died. He was 77.

 

Joël Robert. Photo courtesy AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum.
Joël Robert. Photo courtesy AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum.

 

Born Nov. 26, 1943 in Châtelet, Belgium, Mr. Robert grew up in a family of motorcycle racers. His father, Fernan, raced speedway events. His uncle and cousin also competed.

“At my birth, my father said, ‘We will make a rider out of him,’” Mr. Robert once recalled during an interview. “At the age of 2, I was able to take a chain off a bike, link by link.”

At 7, Mr. Robert was given his first motorcycle, a Gillet 125.

“I didn’t even reach the foot pegs,” he said. “To start or stop, I needed a wall or a tree to lean against.”

Mr. Robert earned his first 250cc world championship in 1964, riding a privateer CZ. He was just 20 years old, at the time the youngest rider to win a world motocross title.

In 1968, he reclaimed the title by 2 points over Sweden’s Torsten Hallman. Mr. Robert won the title again in 1969 over fellow Belgium and CZ rider Sylvain Geboers.

Mr. Robert won the 1970 250cc Motocross World Championship on a factory Suzuki RH70. It was Suzuki’s first world motocross title, and also the first for a Japanese manufacturer. He would go on to win the world championship again in 1971 and ’72 with Suzuki.

Remembered as one of the most naturally talented motocross riders in history, Mr. Robert won 50 motocross Grands Prix, a record that stood for more than 30 years until it was broken by fellow Belgian Stefan Everts in 2004.

Mr. Robert began traveling to America in 1967, along with other world championship riders, for a series of races against America’s top riders. He won seven Trans-AMA Nationals during the 1970 and ’71 seasons.

After being inducted into the AMA Hall of Fame in 2000, Mr. Robert continued his involvement in motocross acting as manager for Belgium’s Motocross des Nations team.

Mr. Robert’s biography is available at motorcyclemuseum.org/halloffame/detail.aspx?RacerID=92.

About the American Motorcyclist Association

Founded in 1924, the AMA is a not-for-profit member-based association whose mission is to promote the motorcycle lifestyle and protect the future of motorcycling. As the world’s largest motorcycling rights and event sanctioning organization, the AMA advocates for riders’ interests at all levels of government and sanctions thousands of competition and recreational events every year. The AMA also provides money-saving discounts on products and services for its members. Through the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio, the AMA honors the heroes and heritage of motorcycling. For more information, visit americanmotorcyclist.com.

Not a member? Join the AMA today: americanmotorcyclist.com.

MV Agusta’s Design Center Gets Makeover, New Chief Designer

(From left) Alessandro Volpini, Timur Sardarov, Brian Gillen and Giorgio Mazzotti at MV Agusta’s new design center in San Marino. Photo courtesy MV Agusta.
(From left) Alessandro Volpini, Timur Sardarov, Brian Gillen and Giorgio Mazzotti at MV Agusta’s design center in San Marino. Photo courtesy MV Agusta.

MV AGUSTA’S SAN MARINO STYLING AND ENGINEERING CENTRE GETS TOTAL MAKEOVER AND WELCOMES NEW CHIEF DESIGNER STEPHANE ZACHE

Premises at the CRC have undergone a complete renovation as MV Agusta’s Technical Department and Design Centre merge.

Varese, January 14, 2021 – The Design Studios and Offices in MV Agusta’s Styling and Engineering Centre in San Marino have been refurbished to create a completely new work space for the company’s Technical and Design departments. The two divisions have been merged into a single unit in an effort to optimise and accelerate current processes in the design and development of new projects. CRC has also received new important investments in terms of technologically advanced equipment and instruments which will aid the 30-strong staff of highly specialised designers and engineers to navigate continuously between the physical and virtual environments in real-time.

In addition to Brian Gillen, who heads CRC, Giorgio Mazzotti and Alessandro Volpini, Stephane Zache has joined the Centre’s leadership team in the role of Chief Designer. Zache, a French designer with an impressive background in the motorcycling industry, developed his unique expertise and skills working for numerous motorcycle OEM’s worldwide.

“The renovations in CRC are focused on creating a new working environment to further stimulate the creativity and efficiency of our extremely talented team, who constitute the real backbone of an institute that is renowned and respected worldwide. I welcome Stephane Zache as a valued new addition to the CRC leadership team” said Brian Gillen, R&D Director, MV Agusta and CRC, “Imagining, designing, engineering and constructing the most beautiful bikes in the world is the focus of CRC. I am immensely proud of leading this extraordinary team which continues to drive the future of motorcycling.”.

AHRMA: 500 Premier Grand Prix Featured In 2021 Vintage Cup

AHRMA competitors Kenny Cummings (17) and Helmi Niederer (80) in action. Photo by etechphoto.com, courtesy AHRMA.
AHRMA competitors Kenny Cummings (17) and Helmi Niederer (80) in action. Photo by etechphoto.com, courtesy AHRMA.

Classic big-bore GP bikes featured class for AHRMA

(Elora, Tennessee) A Golden Age of Grand Prix motorcycle racing will be the focus of the 2021 American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association (AHRMA) National Historic Cup Road Race Series.

“Not content with merely racing at the finest circuits nationwide, AHRMA is giving a big boost to big bikes from the 1960s by making our 500 Premier Grand Prix class the featured class for 2021,” said Arthur Kowitz, chairman of the AHRMA Board of Trustees.

Competitors in the 500 Premier class will be racing not only for a class championship but also to win the 2021 AHRMA Vintage Cup. “The AHRMA Vintage Cup is our annual featured class that includes enhanced awards, press coverage and opportunities for team and rider exposure,” said Alex Mock, AHRMA Roadrace Director.

500 Premier is sponsored by NYC Norton and RoadracingWorld.com. The class is open to Grand Prix-type motorcycles displacing up to 500cc and produced through 1968. It showcased storied Grand Prix motorcycles from the post-war era, including the Manx Norton, Matchless G50, BSA Goldstar, Benelli Four and MV Agusta triples.

“500 Premier was one of the first racing classes created when AHRMA was formed and is still one of the most competitive vintage road racing classes on our current schedule,” said Kenny Cummings, owner of NYC Norton. “There is nothing comparable to the sight and sound of a 500cc big single roaring past the crowd on the front straight at 8k rpm.”

Cummings explained that many motorcycles eligible to compete in 500 Premier are considered too valuable for their natural environment – the racetrack.  “We’d like to encourage anyone who might have a Premier-era machine to bring it back out to race with us in 2021,” Cummings said. “And if you’re not up to speed, then put the fastest ‘kid’ you know on your beloved machine and let it live.”

Notable professional and privateer racers including World Champion Kevin Schwantz, Peter Politiek, Pat Mooney and Tim Joyce have each competed in the 500 Premier class.

The enhanced awards for the 2021 Vintage Cup series will be presented separately from other class trophies during the awards ceremony at each AHRMA National Historic Cup Roadrace event. Highlights from each 500 Premier race will be reported in RoadracingWorld.com’s online edition. At the conclusion of the 2021 season, the perpetual Vintage Cup trophy will be engraved with the national champion winner’s name and presented to the winner to keep for one year.

Select AHRMA events during 2021 will feature multiple on and off-road competition disciplines including: road racing, motocross, flat track, observed trials and cross country, all at the same venue. These AHRMA Classic MotoFest multi-discipline events will take place at Heartland Motorsports Park, Topeka, Kansas; Weathertech Raceway Laguna Seca in Monterey, California; and at the 2021 Barber Vintage Festival held at the Barber Motorsports Park in Birmingham, Alabama.

“Multi-discipline events always draw strong participation, as many AHRMA members cross over into other two-wheeled competitions, which is a draw not only for rider participation but for fans as well,” said Curtis Comer, AHRMA Executive Director.

AHRMA (American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to preserving, restoring and competing on historic motorcycles. With over 3000 members, AHRMA is the leading historic motorcycle racing group in North America and one of the largest in the world. The association’s enthusiastic membership reflects this country’s strong interest in classic bikes.

 

 

Triumph Daytona Moto2 765 Limited Edition, In The January Issue

Chris Ulrich rode the Daytona Moto2 765 LE at Auto Club Speedway in Fontana, California. The bike was easier to ride quickly than a 1000. Photo by Caliphotography.com.

Featured In the January 2021 issue of Roadracing World: 

        The intent of the Triumph Daytona Moto2 765 Limited Edition is obvious from the moment you walk up to it and sit on it.

        “It’s got the carbon-fiber (bodywork), so it looks the part. Hopping on the motorcycle, it’s got the clip-ons angled down steeply. You sit on it, and it has that racing feel to it. It feels like a racebike,” says Racing Editor Chris Ulrich. 

        Despite the branding, it’s not a Moto2 racebike. It’s a streetbike. But it’s like a streetbike after buying a lot of high-quality racing parts and paying a reputable race shop to install them and tune to suit.

        Triumph engineers set out to design a motorcycle that would work as well on the street as it did on the track (and vice versa), with a reliable engine that could be upgraded to be the spec powerplant for Moto2 World Championship racing…

—Quick Look: 2021 Triumph Daytona Moto2 765 Limited Edition, by Michael Gougis

            Middleweight mass, heavyweight torque and competent suspension and brakes make the Triumph Daytona Moto2 765 not only a fun street ride, but a bike that is easy to ride hard on the track, straight off the showroom floor. Take a look at the machine with the engine that powers the Moto2 World Championship – it’s 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!

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AHRMA: Alex Mock Named New Roadrace Director

Alex Mock. Photo courtesy AHRMA.
Alex Mock. Photo courtesy AHRMA.

The American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association (AHRMA) is pleased to introduce the newest member of our team, AHRMA Roadrace Director Alex Mock.  Based in Corona, California, Alex brings broad experience in race operations, timing and scoring, and race promotions, having been head of race operations and promoter of the Supermoto National Championship Series, Roland Sands Design SuperHooligans and more. In addition, he has proven success in securing series and event sponsorships.

Alex shares that, “What I bring to the table is my ability to multitask on race operations and my understanding of timing and scoring. My main focus is on track safety while adhering to the race schedule.”

He will use his expertise and skills in race operations to lead and grow the team of AHRMA staff and volunteers who make vintage road racing possible.

Alex also holds a certification as a race coach with U.S. Motorcycle Coaching Association (USMCA).

When Alex is not busy traveling to race events all over the country, he enjoys spending all the time he can with his wife Andrea and their two daughters Violet and Coco. Alex introduced Violet to two wheels on the Strider 2 into1 rocking bike and she is now riding her own path to a very fun life on two wheels. The Mocks do everything together outdoors including skiing in the winter months and hitting the beach throughout the year as much as they can.

“I’m very excited to be a part of AHRMA and looking forward to the first race of the season at Roebling Road,” Alex said.

AHRMA (American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to preserving, restoring and competing on historic motorcycles. With over 3000 members, AHRMA is the leading historic motorcycle racing group in North America and one of the largest in the world. The association’s enthusiastic membership reflects this country’s strong interest in classic bikes.

MotoAmerica: No Superbike Superpole In 2021

Cameron Beaubier in action at Road America. Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy MotoAmerica.
Cameron Beaubier in action at Road America. Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy MotoAmerica.

MotoAmerica is doing away with the Superpole qualifying session for the Superbike class in 2021.

In recent seasons, the top nine Superbike riders, based on their times from Qualifying Practices One and Two, used a 15-minute Superpole session to determine who would line up where on the front three rows of the grid.

Now, grid spots for Superbike Race One will be determined by lap times recorded by riders in any Qualifying Practice session. Dunlop’s super-sticky rear qualifying tires will still be available for use but only during a session designated on the official tire allotment document for each event.

Also new for 2021, the grid spots for Superbike Race Two will be determined by the finishing order of Race One, but in the event of a crash, mechanical issue, or other problem, no rider can drop more than eight grid positions for Race Two.

One other significant change in the 2021 rules is an increased minimum weight limit in Supersport for 2013-2021 Kawasaki ZX-6R motorcycles, which have 636cc engines as opposed to the 599cc engines in most of the other machines in the class. In 2021, Kawasakis must weigh no less than 165 kg (363.0 pounds), which is 4.0 kg (8.8 pounds) more than the minimum weight limit for 599cc machines, 161 kg (354.2 pounds).

Also included in the 2021 MotoAmerica rulebook are proposed future technical rule changes for the Superbike class. MotoAmerica, following the lead of the FIM Superbike World Championship, is considering putting restrictions and price caps on forks, shocks, swingarms, and braking components beginning in 2023 in an apparent move to save costs.