MotoAmerica: Superbike Unlimited Video Explains Barber

David Swarts

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October 1, 2020

MotoAmerica: Superbike Unlimited Video Explains Barber

Two-time MotoAmerica Stock 1000 Champion Andrew Lee was due to ride a Kawasaki ZX-10RR built by Superbike Unlimited in the MotoAmerica HONOS Superbike races September 18-20 at Barber Motorsports Park.

Lee rode the bike during Friday’s two Superbike qualifying sessions and did well, recording the eighth-fastest lap time, 1:25.866, and earning his way into Superpole.

On Saturday, however, Superbike Unlimited suddenly withdrew their entry.

Asked about the move at the track, Superbike Unlimited owner Freddy Carswell declined to comment to Roadracingworld.com, but thanks to photos and videos posted on the social media pages of Superbike Unlimited it became clear that the Kawasaki was fitted with a Motec M170 ECU and a Nova Racing close-racing racing transmission, neither of which are legal in MotoAmerica Superbike.

In the video below, Carswell explains the situation at Barber Motorsports Park and hints at a return to MotoAmerica Superbike, possibly at Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS).

Andrew Lee is currently on the Superbike entry list for IMS as riding the #14 Superbike Unlimited Franklin Armory Racing Kawasaki ZX-10RR.

World Superbike: Aruba.it Ducati Expecting Rain At Magny-Cours

David Swarts

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October 1, 2020

0

World Superbike: Aruba.it Ducati Expecting Rain At Magny-Cours

#FraWorldSBK. The Aruba.it Racing – Ducati team ready for the Pirelli French Round at the Circuit de Nevers Magny-Cours (France)

The seventh round of the 2020 WorldSBK season will take place this weekend at the Circuit de Nevers Magny-Cours in France.

The Aruba.it Racing – Ducati team arrived [Tuesday] at Magny-Cours to prepare for the Pirelli French Round which, according to the weather forecast, could be largely characterized by rain.

Scott Redding will get on track on Friday morning for the first free practice session with the aim to reduce the gap (51 points) with the WorldSBK leader Jonathan Rea (Kawasaki).

After the stunning first win of the season obtained ten days ago in Barcelona, Chaz Davies will try to confirm his extremely positive momentum to both consolidate his third place in the riders’ standings and contribute to the chase for the team standings as the Aruba.it Racing – Ducati team is second (427 points) only 8 points behind the Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK.

Chaz Davies (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati #7)

“It’s a good time for us and after the precious results obtained in Barcelona, we want to continue in this direction. During the Montmelò weekend the feeling with the bike was really solid. If the feeling with the front end was positive in the previous races already, I think that we have also been able to fix the feeling with the rear. We will give our best in Magny-Cours even if we don’t know in which weather conditions we will race”.

Scott Redding (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati #45)

“I don’t know very well the Magny-Cours circuit where I have never competed in my career. However, it seems a very interesting circuit and also suitable for the Ducati Panigale V4 R and this could be a good starting point. I really like to race on new circuits and I’m very motivated. We will find unpredictable weather conditions and this will make the weekend even more exciting. I know the team is already working and I can’t wait to get back on track”.

Podcast: Greg’s Garage Pod With Jason Pridmore, Episode 95

David Swarts

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October 1, 2020

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Podcast: Greg’s Garage Pod With Jason Pridmore, Episode 95

Greg’s Garage Pod with Co-Host Jason Pridmore – A motorcycle racing Pod about MotoGP, MotoAmerica, and World Superbike, Pro Motocross, American Flat Track, Supercross, and more. In this episode Co-Hosts Greg White and Jason Pridmore talk:

ARAI Helmets News – Honda’s CBR1000RR-R SP to make its MotoAmerica debut, Pecco Bagnaia to Ducati Factory team, Lorenzo Zanetti returns to MotoAmerica, and more!

MotoGP – The Catalunya GP was par for the course. Dovi and Rossi out with Suzuki double podium! All classes discussed.

WorldSBk – Preview of this weekend’s Magny-Cours race. A new surface, cold temps, and a chance for Rea to wrap up his 6th.

Race Calendar – WorldSBK, America Flat Track, AMA Pro Motocross, and more, as racing goes on all over the world.

MotoGP: Two Seats Still Open For 2021

David Swarts

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September 30, 2020

0

With today’s announcement from Ducati regarding Francesco Bagnaia, Jorge Martin, and Johann Zarco, the 2021 MotoGP field is shaping up but is not quite complete yet.

As of today, there still appears to be two empty seats available, considering Moto2 Championship contender Enea Bastianini told reporters at Misano that he had signed with Ducati for 2021 and then Avinitia Esponsorama Team Manager Ruben Xaus said he was 99% sure the young Italian would be riding with his team.

That leaves one empty seat at Aprilia, considering Andrea Iannone’s doping suspension will carry well into the 2021 season, and one empty seat at LCR Honda.

This also leaves the futures of current MotoGP riders Cal Crutchlow, Andrea Dovizioso, Takaaki Nakagami, and Bradley Smith up in the air.

The current 2021 MotoGP team and rider lineup:

Aprilia:

Aprilia Gresini Racing:

Aleix Espargaro

To Be Announced

Ducati:

Ducati Corse Factory Team:

Francesco “Pecco” Bagnaia

Jack Miller

Avintia Esponsorama:

Enea Bastianini (To Be Confirmed)

Tito Rabat

Pramac Racing:

Jorge Martin

Johann Zarco

Honda:

Repsol Honda:

Pol Espargaro

Marc Marquez

LCR Honda:

Alex Marquez

To Be Announced

KTM:

Red Bull KTM Factory Racing:

Brad Binder

Miguel Oliveira

Red Bull KTM Tech3:

Iker Lecuona

Danilo Petrucci

Suzuki:

Team Suzuki ECSTAR:

Joan Mir

Alex Rins

Yamaha:

Monster Energy Yamaha:

Fabio Quartararo

Maverick Vinales

PETRONAS Yamaha Sepang Racing Team (SRT):

Franco Morbidelli

Valentino Rossi

Video: Jonathan Rea “Back To My Roots – Northern Ireland”

David Swarts

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September 30, 2020

0

Video: Jonathan Rea “Back To My Roots – Northern Ireland”

Five-time Superbike World Champion Jonathan Rea travels back to his roots “to understand the true road racing heritage and why it is so important in North Ireland,” according to the description of this video on Rea’s YouTube channel.

MRA: Lee, Moham Star In Season Finale At HPR

David Swarts

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September 30, 2020

0

MRA: Lee, Moham Star In Season Finale At HPR

Lee and Moham on top at MRA Race of the Rockies season finale

Byers, CO – The MRA concluded the 2020 season with a lot
of exciting racing, a Saturday night BBQ, a sold out SuperStreet event, and
a corner worker appreciation party over the weekend of September 26-27 at
High Plains Raceway.

Going into the weekend, Ryan Burke had practically sewn up the MRA #1 plate
needing only to finish within 11 points of second place David Lambert.
Burke was still recovering from a crash in round 6 which sent him into
surgery to get a plated clavicle. Shannon Moham had the Race of the Rockies
GTU championship in hand with 20 points over an absent Joe Resta. Finally
for a third time this year, Andrew Lee returned to the MRA to mix it up with
the local fast guys.

Saturday had perfect weather conditions and a number of new champions were
decided. Congratulations to all of them. MRA SuperStreet new racers’
class was completely sold out and went off very well thanks to MRA New Racer
Director Jeff Brown and a number of volunteer MRA race instructors.
Saturday night the MRA hosted a BBQ under the High Plains Raceway pavilion.
Family and friends were all invited and had a great time while observing
appropriate COVID mitigation procedures. Following the BBQ was the annual
corner worker appreciation party. In this event the racers and sponsors
donate gifts, cash, and libations to thank for the work and sacrifices the
corner crew makes all year. It is the experience and professionalism of the
MRA corner crew that make our events some of the best run and safest races
in the nation.

On Sunday, Burke set the fast qualifying time for the Race of the Rockies
GTO class on a cold, windy morning. Moham put his GTU Yamaha YZF-R6 on the
front row just ahead of Mike Applehans. Lee sat out qualifying which put
him well back on the Race of the Rockies grid mired near the MRA perennial
back markers. For the race, he wasn’t going to stay back there very long.

Open Superbike (also known as Race of the Rockies preview) saw Burke pull
out of the race early taking 9th place points to secure his OSB championship
over Lambert, who took the win with John Elliott in second. Lee came up
from the back of the grid, set the fast lap of the race, and claimed the
final podium spot.

For Race of the Rockies, Lambert led the field into turn 1 from a tough &
confusing start on the 3rd row. Applehans was able to get by Lambert on the
first lap and led the race with Burke in 3rd and Lee back in the pack
working his way toward the front. It seems everyone was testing what grip
was available on the quickly warming track as the race progressed. On lap
4, Lambert got back by Applehans with Burke close behind while Lee made his
way past Chris Nami into 4th. Lee set the fastest lap of the race at this
point with more to come. Burke took over the lead just past half way with
Lambert and Applehans in tow while Lee made up about 4 seconds on the
leaders in that one lap. Lee took over 3rd from Applehans with Burke
still in front turning a 1:48.2 lap time. Just after Lee got by Lambert to
take over 2nd, Lambert sat up with some bike trouble and dropped back to
4th. At this point, Lee was lapping at a 1:45.9, two seconds better than
anyone else. On the last lap, Lee made it by Burke for the lead and took
the win, with Burke finishing 2nd and Applehans 3rd.

This was Burke’s 6th consecutive MRA Race of the Rockies championship. When
asked about next year, Burke said, “I’m weighing my options. Maybe 6th in a
row is enough. I’d like to do some bigger things.” It seems we’ll have to
wait and see what Burke is up to in 2021.

In Race of the Rockies GTU, Moham took the lead from the start with Jason
Martinez not far behind. Moham was able to keep a couple of GTO bikes
between him and Martinez for the first half of the race until Martinez was
able to get around them and start hunting down Moham. Meanwhile, Scott
Morrison and Dennis Stowers had a go of each other back and forth for 3rd.
With laps winding down, Martinez was able to close the gap on Moham but came
up short at the checkered flag by 0.268 seconds. Morrison pulled clear of
Stowers to finish on the final podium step.

With this GTU championship, Moham now has 100 career class championships to
his name. Moham has had over 435 lifetime race wins, 9 Race of the Rockies
GTU championships, 10 MRA clubman championships in a row, and holds 33 MRA
track records. When asked about plans for 2021, Moham mentioned trying out
flat track and the possibility of a WERA national or MotoAmerica race.

Andrew Lee is sponsored by Spidi, Franklin Armory, Graves Motorsports, JP43
Training, Dunlop, PCP Motorsports, Tachi Palace Hotel & Casino, Vortex,
Michael Hill Productions, and Vroom.media.

Shannon Moham is sponsored by Nordic Nursing, Dunlop tires, Race Tech
suspension, Woodcraft CFM, Vortex racing, Vickery Motorsports, Motors by
REX, Renegade race fuels, Pit Bull stands, Imperial Sportbikes, Denver n
Dakota, Segren’s Nectar, MOM, CP Carrillo, Ninjatech, Bell Helmets,
Motonation, and Motorex

The MRA has now concluded its 2020 championship season and is well on the
way in planning for a full schedule of Colorado road racing in 2021. Look
for the 2021 schedule coming out in a few weeks.

The Motorcycle Roadracing Association is dedicated to promoting safe and
competitive motorcycle road racing events for enthusiasts in Colorado and
the surrounding area. For more information go to http://www.mra-racing.org/.

(*denotes 2020 class champion)

Fay Myers Motorcycle World’s Race of the Rockies GTO

1. Andrew Lee (Kaw ZX-10R)

2. Ryan Burke* (Yam YZF-R1)

3. Mike Applehans (Suz GSX-R1000)

4. David Lambert (Kaw ZX-10R)

5. Chris Nami (BMW S1000RR)

6. Dallas W A Sherman (Yam YZF-R1)

Apex Auto Glass’ Race of the Rockies GTU

1. Shannon Moham* (Yam YZF-R6)

2. Jason Martinez (Yam YZF-R6)

3. Scott Morrison (Yam YZF-R6)

4. Dennis Stowers (Tri Daytona)

5. Louden David (Kaw ZX-6R)

Race of the Rockies Championship Overall

1. Andrew Lee (Kaw ZX-10R)

2. Ryan Burke* (Yam YZF-R1)

3. Mike Applehans (Suz GSX-R1000)

4. David Lambert (Kaw ZX-10R)

5. Chris Nami (BMW S1000RR)

6. Dallas W A Sherman (Yam YZF-R1)

High Plains Raceway’s Ladies of the Rockies

No results

Imperial Sportbikes’ Amateur GTO

1. Randy Hopper (Yam YZF-R6)

2. Nick Dremel (Yam YZF-R1)

3. Colton Wulf (Suz GSX-R750)

4. Kevin Caputo (Yam YZF-R6)

5. LJ Elder* (Kaw ZX-10R)

6. Nathan Morales (Yam YZF-R1)

XL3 Rigging’s Amateur GTU

1. LJ Elder (Kaw ZX-6R)

2. Randy Hopper (Yam YZF-R6)

3. Scott Weitmann (Kaw ZX-6R)

4. Jay Samarjian* (Yam YZF-R6)

5. Dan Spurlock (Yam YZF-R6)

6. Eric Becker (Tri Daytona)

805 Beer’s Modern Vintage GTO

1. Aaron Hersh (Yam YZF-R6)

2. Bob Hasenhundl (Yam YZF-R6)

3. Timothy David (Kaw ZX-6R)

Nite Owl Sports Bar & Grill’s Modern Vintage GTU

1. Joshua Baker (Suz SV650)

2. Andrew Schrems (Suz SV650)

3. Colton Wulf (Suz SV650)

4. Dave Stiefvater (Hon CBR1000RR)

5. Timothy David (Kaw ZX-6R)

6. Codey Chewning (Suz SV650)

Moto Station’s Open Superbike

1. David Lambert (Kaw ZX-10R)

2. John Elliott (Yam YZF-R1)

3. Andrew Lee (Kaw ZX-10R)

4. Jeremiah Walker (Duc V4 R)

5. Dallas W A Sherman (Yam YZF-R1)

6. Chris Nami (BMW S1000RR)

Pho 95’s Open Supersport

1. Andrew Lee (Kaw ZX-10R)

2. Mike Applegate (Yam YZF-R1M)

3. David Lambert (Kaw ZX-10R)

4. Mike Applehans (Suz GSX-R1000)

5. Ray Thornton (Yam YZF-R1)

6. Jeremiah Walker (Duc V4 R)

Modworks’ Solo Endurance Open

1. Ryan Burke* (Yam YZF-R1)

2. Mike Applehans (Suz GSX-R1000)

3. Ray Thornton (Yam YZF-R1)

4. Chris Nami (BMW S1000RR)

5. James Wilkerson (Suz GSX-R1000)

6. Nathan Morales (Yam YZF-R1)

Performance Cycle’s Heavyweight Superbike

1. Shannon Moham* (Yam YZF-R6)

2. Jason Martinez (Yam YZF-R6)

3. Dennis Stowers (Tri Daytona)

4. Louden David (Kaw ZX-6R)

Dunlop/Louden Clear Designs’ Premiere Amateur

1. LJ Elder* (Kaw ZX-6)

2. Scott Weitmann (Kaw ZX-6R )

3. Aaron Hersh (Yam YZF-R6)

4. Phillip Takahashi (Kaw ZX-6R)

5. Colton Wulf (Duc 848)

6. Dan Spurlock (Yam YZF-R6)

ATS Diesel Heavyweight Supersport

1. Jason Martinez* (Yam YZF-R6)

2. Ken Yee (Kaw ZX-6R)

3. Dennis Stowers (Tri Daytona)

4. Jim Soiland (Duc 959)

5. Tyrel Diekmann (Yam YZF-R6)

6. Louden David (Kaw ZX-6R)

Supreme Lending’s Solo Endurance Heavyweight

1. Shannon Moham* (Yam YZF-R6)

2. Ken Yee (Kaw ZX-6R)

3. Dennis Stowers (Tri Daytona)

4. Jim Soiland (Duc 959)

5. Louden David (Kaw ZX-6R)

6. Colton Wulf (Duc 848)

Green Tech Auto Body’s Middleweight Superbike

1. Shannon Moham* (Yam YZF-R6)

2. Jason Martinez (Yam YZF-R6)

3. Dennis Stowers (Tri Daytona)

IES Technologies’ Middleweight Supersport

1. Shannon Moham* (Yam YZF-R6)

2. Jason Martinez (Yam YZF-R6)

3. LJ Elder (Kaw ZX-6)

4. Ken Yee (Kaw ZX-6R)

5. Dennis Stowers (Tri Daytona)

6. Scott Morrison (Yam YZF-R6)

Wyeth Homes’ Solo Endurance Middleweight

1. Shannon Moham* (Yam YZF-R6)

2. Jason Madama

3. Scott Morrison (Yam YZF-R6)

4. Dennis Stowers (Tri Daytona)

5. Randy Hopper (Yam YZF-R6)

6. Stephen Townsend (Yam YZF-R6)

Spencer Russell Youth Racing’s Lightweight Grand Prix

1. Ricky Orlando* (Kaw Ninja 650)

2. Joshua Baker (Suz SV650)

3. Andrew Schrems (Suz SV650)

4. Ryan Smith (Hon CBR500R)

5. Colton Wulf (Suz SV650)

6. Mathew Muldoon (Yam FZ-07R)

Brighton Radiator & Muffler’s Solo Endurance Lightweight

1. Ricky Orlando (Kaw 650)

2. Joshua Baker* (Suz SV650)

3. Andrew Schrems (Suz SV650)

4. Kevin Kurtz (Kaw KX450F)

5. Codey Chewning (Suz SV650)

6. Cindy Wulf (Suz SV650)

Novo Advisors’ Solo Endurance Ultralightweight

1. Luke Sanzone (Kaw 400)

2. Jason Madsen (Kaw 400)

3. Dan Parker (Kaw 250)

4. Justen Behmer* (Kaw 300)

5. Colton Wulf (Hon CBR500R)

6. Richard Nguyen (Kaw 250)

SCS Incorporated’s SuperTwins GTO

1. Jim Soiland (Duc 959)

2. Colton Wulf (Suz GSX-R750)

3. Joseph Maher (Duc 749S)

4. Jim Brewer (Duc 1098R)

Alliance Motorsports’ SuperTwins GTU

1. Ricky Orlando* (Kaw 650 )

2. Andrew Schrems (Suz SV650)

3. Colton Wulf (Suz SV650)

4. Kevin Kurtz (Kaw KX450F)

5. Codey Chewning (Suz SV650)

6. Mathew Muldoon (Yam FZ-07R)

MRA’s Thunderbike

1. Jim Soiland (Duc 959)

2. Ricky Orlando (Kaw Ninja 650)

3. Colton Wulf (Duc 848)

4. Dennis Stowers* (Tri Daytona)

5. Kreece Elliott (Kaw 300)

6. Justen Behmer (Kaw 300)

Moto Garage’s Formula 40 Extreme GTO

1. Mike Applegate (Yam YZF-R1M)

2. Ray Thornton (Yam YZF-R1)

3. John Elliott (Yam YZF-R1)

4. Chris Nami (BMW S1000RR)

5. Patrick Lansu (Pie X80R)

6. James Wilkerson (Suz GSX-R1000)

Moto Garage’s Formula 40 Extreme GTU

1. Shannon Moham* (Yam YZF-R6)

2. Ken Yee (Kaw ZX-6R)

3. Arthur Chen (Yam YZF-R6)

4. Michael Lakritz (Hon CBR600RR)

5. Andrew Schrems (Suz SV650)

Moto Garage’s Formula 40 GTO

1. Chris Higgins* (Yam YZF-R1)

2. Patrick Paschall (Yam YZF-R1)

3. Mark Weidner (KTM RC8R)

4. Paul Frysig (Kaw ZX-10R)

5. Jose Rios De Vincenzo

Moto Garage’s Formula 40 GTU

1. Scott Weitmann* (Kaw ZX-6R )

2. Dan Spurlock (Yam YZF-R6)

3. Bob Hasenhundl (Yam YZF-R6)

4. Nathan Bell (Yam YZF-R6)

5. Dan Elders (Suz GSX-R600)

6. Dave Stiefvater (Kaw ZX-6R)

MRA’s 500 Production Cup Sat Race

1. Ryan Smith (Hon CBR500R)

2. Jason Madsen (Kaw 400)

3. Dan Parker* (Kaw 250)

4. Luke Sanzone (Kaw 400)

5. Colton Wulf (Hon CBR500R)

MRA’s 500 Production Cup Sun Race

1. Ryan Smith (Hon CBR500R)

2. Jason Madsen (Kaw 400)

3. Dan Parker* (Kaw 250)

4. Colton Wulf (Hon CBR500R)

Vickery Motorsports’ 350 Production Cup Sat Race

1. Kreece Elliott (Kaw 300)

2. Craig Gomulka (Kaw 300)

3. Richard Nguyen (Kaw 250)

4. Justen Behmer* (Kaw 300)

Vickery Motorsports’ 350 Production Cup Sun Race

1. Kreece Elliott (Kaw 300)

2. Justen Behmer* (Kaw 300)

Woody’s Wheel Works’ Formula Colorado

1. Geoff Cesmat* (Yam YZ450F)

2. Ryan Smith (Hon CBR500R)

3. Justen Behmer (Kaw 300)

4. Colton Wulf (Hon CBR500R)

5. Kevin Kurtz (Kaw KX450F)

MRA’s Supermoto

1. Geoff Cesmat* (Yam YZ450F)

2. Kevin Kurtz (Kaw KX450F)

Interstate Honda’s Novice GTO

1. Nick Dremel* (Yam YZF-R1)

2. Stephen Townsend (Yam YZF-R6)

3. Randy Hopper (Yam YZF-R6)

4. Caden McQuhae (Yam YZF-R6)

5. Colton Wulf (Suz GSX-R750)

6. Erik Maxwell (Kaw ZX-10R)

Law Tigers’ Novice GTU

1. Cameron Lee (Yam YZF-R6)

2. Randy Hopper* (Yam YZF-R6)

3. Stephen Townsend (Yam YZF-R6)

4. Caden McQuhae (Yam YZF-R6)

5. Colton Wulf (Duc 848)

6. Nathan Bell (Yam YZF-R6)

Formula PB

No results

MotoGP: Bagnaia To Factory Ducati, Zarco & Martin To Pramac

David Swarts

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September 30, 2020

0

MotoGP: Bagnaia To Factory Ducati, Zarco & Martin To Pramac

Ducati Corse announces the official Ducati Team and Pramac Racing Team rider line-up for the 2021 MotoGP season

Ducati Corse is pleased to announce the name of the four official Ducati riders for the 2021 MotoGP World Championship. Francesco Bagnaia will join forces with the official team alongside the already confirmed Jack Miller. At the same time, Johann Zarco and Jorge Martín will defend the colours of the Pramac Racing Team for next season.

Francesco “Pecco” Bagnaia, Moto2 World Champion in 2018, made his MotoGP debut last year with the Ducati Desmosedici GP bike of the Pramac Racing Team and has shown this year ever-increasing competitiveness, fighting for the podium in several GPs. In 2021, the 23-year-old rider hailing from Piedmont will join his current teammate Jack Miller in the Ducati Team, who is in his seventh season in the premier class.

Jack Miller, 25 years old, Australian rider from Townsville, made his debut in the World Championship in 2011 in the 125cc class. After fighting for the Moto3 World Title in 2014, he stepped up straight to MotoGP in 2015 competing in 93 races in the category and for the last three seasons with the Pramac Racing Team.

The two new riders of the Pramac Racing Team have three World Titles overall together. Johann Zarco, a 30-year-old French rider, won the Moto2 World Title in 2015 and 2016 and this year he is competing in MotoGP with the Ducati bike of Team Esponsorama, with whom he took pole position and a third place in the race in Brno. With him, in the Borgo Panigale factory-supported team, there will be a rookie in the category, Spaniard Jorge Martín, 22 years old, 2018 Moto3 World Champion in his current second season in Moto2.

All four official riders will ride the latest version of the Desmosedici GP bikes with same technical specifications.

Claudio Domenicali, CEO of Ducati Motor Holding: “Racing is an evolving advanced technology incubator that is a fundamental part of our company. It is essential to continue to invest in research and development and not to be afraid to innovate and renew to be successful. That’s why I am thrilled with the inclusion of young and talented riders who make us look to the future with optimism and a constant desire to improve. Jack Miller and Pecco Bagnaia have shown this year that they can take advantage of the potential of our Desmosedici GP bike and have earned this opportunity. Their transition to the official team from the Pramac Racing Team, where they both grew up, is proof of the efficient collaboration that binds us to the team of Paolo Campinoti, which I would like to thank. I am sure that next year his team will be able to make the most of the talent of the two new riders Johann Zarco and Jorge Martín. Now, however, we are focused on the current season, because we want to get the best possible results with our two riders: Andrea, who in these eight years with us has been runner up in the World Championship for three consecutive years, won 14 GPs, thus becoming the most successful Ducati rider after Stoner, and is still in the fight for the world title this year and Danilo. Danilo, who is working hard to get back to fighting for the podium. Together with them, we will do everything to conclude our beautiful adventure together in the best possible way”.

More, from a press release issued by Ducati:

Francesco Bagnaia joins Jack Miller in the Ducati Team for the 2021 season

Ducati Corse is pleased to announce that it will be Francesco Bagnaia to defend the colours of the Ducati Team in the 2021 MotoGP World Championship, alongside the already confirmed Jack Miller. The rider from Piedmont, 23 years old, will move to the official team for next season, after his first two years in MotoGP with Pramac Racing, the factory-supported team of the Borgo Panigale manufacturer.

Born in Turin in 1997, Francesco “Pecco” Bagnaia made his debut in the Moto3 World Championship in 2013 and then stepped up to Moto2 in 2017, winning the World Title in this category in 2018. In 2019, he moved up to MotoGP with the Pramac Racing Team, and this year Pecco has stood out on many occasions with his Desmosedici GP bike, taking his first podium in the Lenovo Grand Prix of San Marino and the Rimini Riviera, that he closed in second place.

Francesco Bagnaia: “I’d chosen to be a Ducati rider even before becoming a Moto2 World Champion in 2018, and they had chosen me even before I had known that one day I would become one. It was our bet because until that moment I had always been a fast rider, but I had nothing concrete under my belt: Ducati decided to believe in it even before everyone else. We didn’t know how it was going to go, but to this day, if I had to go back, I’d do it all over again. My MotoGP debut was not easy, but at Ducati, they never questioned me: they gave me all the support and confidence that a rookie needs and they let me do experience in 2019. I listened to them, I trusted them, together we learned to know each other and understand each other, and now we form a great team. They taught me a method of work that allowed us to take away some nice satisfactions and I think that’s just the beginning. Today I am the happiest person in the world, for me, it is a dream come true: being an official Ducati rider has always been my ambition, and I succeeded together with all of those who had always believed in me even when things did not go well. A special thank goes to Claudio Domenicali, Gigi Dall’Igna, Paolo Ciabatti and Davide Tardozzi for the trust, to the Pramac Racing Team that welcomed me as a family and to the VR46 Riders Academy that has always supported me all these years.”

Claudio Domenicali, CEO of Ducati Motor Holding: “Racing is an evolving advanced technology incubator that is a fundamental part of our company. It is essential to continue to invest in research and development and not to be afraid to innovate and renew to be successful. That’s why I am thrilled with the inclusion of young and talented riders who make us look to the future with optimism and a constant desire to improve. Pecco and Jack have shown this year that hey can take advantage of the potential of our Desmosedici GP and have earned this opportunity. Their transition to the official team from the Pramac Racing Team, where they both grew up, is proof of the efficient collaboration that binds us to the team of Paolo Campinoti, which I would like to thank. Now, however, we are focused on the current season, because we want to get the best possible results with our two riders: Andrea, who in these eight years with us has been runner up in the World Championship for three consecutive years, won 14 GPs, thus becoming the most successful Ducati rider after Stoner, and is still in the fight for the world title this year and Danilo. Danilo, who is working hard to get back to fighting for the podium. Together with them, we will do everything to conclude our beautiful adventure together.”

More, from a press release issued by Pramac Racing:

Pramac Racing Team together with Johann Zarco and Jorge Martín for the 2021 season

Johann Zarco and Jorge Martín will be the two Pramac Racing Team riders in the 2021 MotoGP World Championship.

A delighted Paolo Campinoti, Team Principal of Pramac Racing, stated: “We are happy to have reached an agreement with Johann and Jorge. We want to continue an important project that is giving us great satisfaction. The sporting qualities and the winning mentality of the two riders are extremely well known: expectations are therefore high. We know Johann well, and we have a very positive feeling with him: the same will be with Jorge”.

Johann Zarco (Cannes, 16 July 1990) is a French rider, two-time Moto2 World Champion in 2015 and 2016.

Jorge Martín Almoguera (Madrid, 29 January 1998) is a Spanish rider, winner of the Moto3 World Championship in 2018. 2021 will be his first MotoGP Championship season in the premier class.

International Motorcycle Shows Moving To Outdoor Format

David Swarts

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September 30, 2020

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International Motorcycle Shows Moving To Outdoor Format

The Progressive® International Motorcycle Shows® (IMS) Announces a Reimagined Format for the Annual Tour with IMS Outdoors

The nation’s largest consumer motorcycle tour will return summer 2021 and be the most immersive powersports experience yet

SANTA MONICA, Calif., September 30, 2020–The Progressive® International Motorcycle Shows® (IMS), the industry leader for connecting powersports’ top brands with enthusiasts and buyers, today announces Progressive IMS Outdoors, the only program available for manufacturers and brands to reach both new and existing riders in exciting, interactive, central locations. Backed by IMS’ title sponsor of ten years Progressive Insurance, Progressive IMS Outdoors represents the revamp of the tour’s nearly 40-year stint that will not only transition IMS from the traditional convention center setup to a new open outdoor experience but will also create a festival-like atmosphere that promotes enthusiasts of all ages and levels to come together to better engage with products, each other, and the industry. While continuing its presence as the nation’s largest consumer motorcycle tour, Progressive IMS Outdoors will support the growth of the powersports community by offering a unique experience the industry has yet to see.

Commencing during the summer of 2021, Progressive IMS Outdoors will stop in a number of cities across the U.S. bringing powersports enthusiasts multiple days of entertainment, learning, and interactive activities. In addition to showcasing the latest street bikes, dirt bikes, cruisers, scooters, and ATVs as well as the latest gear and aftermarket accessories, the new outdoor format will feature market adjacent products from micro-mobility to electric bicycles, overland and RV products, and more, thus welcoming potential and qualified riders into the industry. Attendees can also expect the remodeled tour to be more interactive than ever with an array of on-road and off-road demo opportunities for all ages and riding abilities, including the continuation of the successful Discover the Ride program. The reimagined tour, which has been five years in the making, comes at a perfect time as 2020 has seen off-road product sales soar.

“At IMS, we have always placed an emphasis on evolving our shows to better support the community and enthusiasts,” says Tracy Harris, SVP, IMS. “Progressive IMS Outdoors will be the greatest evolution in the brand’s 38-year history. Taking IMS Outdoors not only changes our venues but opens up an array of opportunities for our team to deliver a truly first-of-a-kind experience for the community as the only event in the nation taking the proactive step to actively serve both the new rider and core audience.”

Progressive IMS Outdoors is made possible with the support of IMS’ title sponsor, Progressive. “As the #1 motorcycle insurer in the U.S. and IMS title sponsor since 2010, we look forward to working alongside IMS to deliver an innovative, new type of event to the industry,” says Eric Doubler, Recreational Vehicle Business Leader at Progressive. “With this fresh and reimagined approach, IMS Outdoors is an exciting opportunity to transform the tour and grow the powersports community.”

Dates and locations for Progressive IMS Outdoors will be announced in December. As Progressive IMS Outdoors is an evolution of IMS’ traditional tour, the shows traditionally held in various cities from November through February will not take place this year. To stay connected with the world of motorcycling, powersports, and all things two-wheeled conveyance, check out ContinueTheRide.com, IMS’ platform that hosts a slate of digital content all designed to reach and support the industry.

For more information, please visit: www.outdoors.motorcycleshows.com.

Connect with IMS (#RidersUnite) and Continue The Ride (#ContinueTheRide):

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Video: “Ask A Superbike Genius” With Richard Stanboli, P7

David Swarts

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September 30, 2020

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Video: “Ask A Superbike Genius” With Richard Stanboli, P7

Racer and TrackDaz owner Dustin Coyner presents “Ask a Superbike Genius, Part Seven” with Richard Stanboli, owner of Attack Performance and the Monster Energy Attack Performance Yamaha MotoAmerica Superbike team.

This interview was conducted following the MotoAmerica event September 11-13 at New Jersey Motorsports Park, in Millville, New Jersey.

MotoGP: Suzuki Achieved Milestone At Catalunya

David Swarts

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September 29, 2020

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MotoGP: Suzuki Achieved Milestone At Catalunya

THE 300 – SUZUKI MAKE IT COUNT ON RECORD-BREAKING DAY IN SPAIN

Sunday September 27th 2020 was a record-breaking day for Team Suzuki Ecstar in the motorcycle racing premier class as Joan Mir and Alex Rins powered their way through to a double podium at the Circuit of Barcelona-Catalunya.

The thrilling 24-lap race saw stellar performances from the home riders, Mir and Rins, as the pair precisely picked their way through the field, taking advantage of their confidence and feel with the GSX-RR until the chequered flag.

Mir took second place, with Rins following closely in third. The last time two ‘boys in blue’ stood on the rostrum together was back in 2007 with Rizla Suzuki’s John Hopkins and Chris Vermeulen, when they did the double at the Misano World Circuit.

As well as matching this achievement, there were yet more records to be broken in Catalunya on Sunday: Mir’s excellent run of form in MotoGP’s triple-header rounds, where he snatched podium positions from his rivals three weeks running, meant he became the first Suzuki rider to score a hat-trick of podiums in the premier class for 20 years. The last rider to do so was Kenny Roberts Jr in 2000, the year he went on to become World Champion for Suzuki.

But the achievements did not stop there and Team Suzuki Ecstar’s talented squad added another accomplishment to the illustrious Suzuki success record, reaching 300 podiums in the premier class!

This comes at a particularly momentous time as the brand celebrates its 100th Anniversary in 2020.

New Zealand’s Keith Turner was the first Suzuki rider to stand on the rostrum in the 500cc class back in 1971 at the Austrian Grand Prix. Since then, an amazing 54 different riders have put the Suzuki name on the podium in the premier class, with some perhaps unexpected names inhabiting the prestigious list, such as Graziano Rossi.

The rider with the most appearances on the box for Suzuki is Kevin Schwantz with a whopping 51, followed by Barry Sheene with 31, and Randy Mamola with 21.

Suzuki’s all-time MotoGP/500cc GP podium leader Kevin Schwantz (1), as seen in 1994. Photo courtesy Team Suzuki Press Office.

With so many reasons to celebrate, Team Suzuki Ecstar were in high spirits after the close of the Catalan Grand Prix, in the mood to reflect on their distinguished past while very much rejoicing in their current success with Mir and Rins.

Shinichi Sahara – Project Leader:

“It was a great feeling to see both Joan and Alex on the podium in Barcelona, and I know this result wouldn’t be possible without the hard work from all the staff involved. Realising that we got Suzuki’s 300th podium in the premier class brings a very emotional feeling to us all, to be part of Suzuki’s history in this 100th Anniversary year is something really special. But I view this as just another step for us, we are already looking to the future and focused on achieving victories – we want to continue making history.”

Davide Brivio – Team Manager:

“We are very proud to give our small contribution to Suzuki in achieving this great result. Three hundred podiums is a very important number, I’m happy that both Alex and Joan at the same time contributed to that. Now we feel an extra drive to keep representing with such a vast history behind us. I just want to say thank you very much to all our team staff, to the Suzuki engineers in the Factory, to the whole company behind us and of course to all the fans; thank you for supporting us. I promise that we will give everything and try our best to continue like this and to increase this number!”

MotoAmerica: Superbike Unlimited Video Explains Barber

October 1, 2020

Andrew Lee (14) at speed on his new Superbike Unlimited Franklin Armory Kawasaki ZX-10RR. Photo by 129 Photos, courtesy Superbike Unlimited. — Andrew Lee (14) at speed on the Superbike Unlimited Franklin Armory Kawasaki ZX-10RR. Photo by 129 Photos, courtesy Superbike Unlimited.

Two-time MotoAmerica Stock 1000 Champion Andrew Lee was due to ride a Kawasaki ZX-10RR built by Superbike Unlimited in the MotoAmerica HONOS Superbike races September 18-20 at Barber Motorsports Park.

Lee rode the bike during Friday’s two Superbike qualifying sessions and did well, recording the eighth-fastest lap time, 1:25.866, and earning his way into Superpole.

On Saturday, however, Superbike Unlimited suddenly withdrew their entry.

Asked about the move at the track, Superbike Unlimited owner Freddy Carswell declined to comment to Roadracingworld.com, but thanks to photos and videos posted on the social media pages of Superbike Unlimited it became clear that the Kawasaki was fitted with a Motec M170 ECU and a Nova Racing close-racing racing transmission, neither of which are legal in MotoAmerica Superbike.

In the video below, Carswell explains the situation at Barber Motorsports Park and hints at a return to MotoAmerica Superbike, possibly at Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS).

Andrew Lee is currently on the Superbike entry list for IMS as riding the #14 Superbike Unlimited Franklin Armory Racing Kawasaki ZX-10RR.

World Superbike: Aruba.it Ducati Expecting Rain At Magny-Cours

October 1, 2020

Aruba.it Racing Ducati riders Scott Redding (left) and Chaz Davies (right). Photo courtesy Aruba.it Racing Ducati.

#FraWorldSBK. The Aruba.it Racing – Ducati team ready for the Pirelli French Round at the Circuit de Nevers Magny-Cours (France)

The seventh round of the 2020 WorldSBK season will take place this weekend at the Circuit de Nevers Magny-Cours in France.

The Aruba.it Racing – Ducati team arrived [Tuesday] at Magny-Cours to prepare for the Pirelli French Round which, according to the weather forecast, could be largely characterized by rain.

Scott Redding will get on track on Friday morning for the first free practice session with the aim to reduce the gap (51 points) with the WorldSBK leader Jonathan Rea (Kawasaki).

After the stunning first win of the season obtained ten days ago in Barcelona, Chaz Davies will try to confirm his extremely positive momentum to both consolidate his third place in the riders’ standings and contribute to the chase for the team standings as the Aruba.it Racing – Ducati team is second (427 points) only 8 points behind the Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK.

Chaz Davies (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati #7)

“It’s a good time for us and after the precious results obtained in Barcelona, we want to continue in this direction. During the Montmelò weekend the feeling with the bike was really solid. If the feeling with the front end was positive in the previous races already, I think that we have also been able to fix the feeling with the rear. We will give our best in Magny-Cours even if we don’t know in which weather conditions we will race”.

Scott Redding (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati #45)

“I don’t know very well the Magny-Cours circuit where I have never competed in my career. However, it seems a very interesting circuit and also suitable for the Ducati Panigale V4 R and this could be a good starting point. I really like to race on new circuits and I’m very motivated. We will find unpredictable weather conditions and this will make the weekend even more exciting. I know the team is already working and I can’t wait to get back on track”.

Podcast: Greg’s Garage Pod With Jason Pridmore, Episode 95

October 1, 2020

Greg’s Garage Pod with Co-Host Jason Pridmore – A motorcycle racing Pod about MotoGP, MotoAmerica, and World Superbike, Pro Motocross, American Flat Track, Supercross, and more. In this episode Co-Hosts Greg White and Jason Pridmore talk:

ARAI Helmets News – Honda’s CBR1000RR-R SP to make its MotoAmerica debut, Pecco Bagnaia to Ducati Factory team, Lorenzo Zanetti returns to MotoAmerica, and more!

MotoGP – The Catalunya GP was par for the course. Dovi and Rossi out with Suzuki double podium! All classes discussed.

WorldSBk – Preview of this weekend’s Magny-Cours race. A new surface, cold temps, and a chance for Rea to wrap up his 6th.

Race Calendar – WorldSBK, America Flat Track, AMA Pro Motocross, and more, as racing goes on all over the world.

MotoGP: Two Seats Still Open For 2021

September 30, 2020

The 2020 FIM MotoGP World Championship field. Photo courtesy Dorna.

With today’s announcement from Ducati regarding Francesco Bagnaia, Jorge Martin, and Johann Zarco, the 2021 MotoGP field is shaping up but is not quite complete yet.

As of today, there still appears to be two empty seats available, considering Moto2 Championship contender Enea Bastianini told reporters at Misano that he had signed with Ducati for 2021 and then Avinitia Esponsorama Team Manager Ruben Xaus said he was 99% sure the young Italian would be riding with his team.

That leaves one empty seat at Aprilia, considering Andrea Iannone’s doping suspension will carry well into the 2021 season, and one empty seat at LCR Honda.

This also leaves the futures of current MotoGP riders Cal Crutchlow, Andrea Dovizioso, Takaaki Nakagami, and Bradley Smith up in the air.

The current 2021 MotoGP team and rider lineup:

Aprilia:

Aprilia Gresini Racing:

Aleix Espargaro

To Be Announced

Ducati:

Ducati Corse Factory Team:

Francesco “Pecco” Bagnaia

Jack Miller

Avintia Esponsorama:

Enea Bastianini (To Be Confirmed)

Tito Rabat

Pramac Racing:

Jorge Martin

Johann Zarco

Honda:

Repsol Honda:

Pol Espargaro

Marc Marquez

LCR Honda:

Alex Marquez

To Be Announced

KTM:

Red Bull KTM Factory Racing:

Brad Binder

Miguel Oliveira

Red Bull KTM Tech3:

Iker Lecuona

Danilo Petrucci

Suzuki:

Team Suzuki ECSTAR:

Joan Mir

Alex Rins

Yamaha:

Monster Energy Yamaha:

Fabio Quartararo

Maverick Vinales

PETRONAS Yamaha Sepang Racing Team (SRT):

Franco Morbidelli

Valentino Rossi

Video: Jonathan Rea “Back To My Roots – Northern Ireland”

September 30, 2020

Five-time Superbike World Champion Jonathan Rea. Photo courtesy of BBC.

Five-time Superbike World Champion Jonathan Rea travels back to his roots “to understand the true road racing heritage and why it is so important in North Ireland,” according to the description of this video on Rea’s YouTube channel.

MRA: Lee, Moham Star In Season Finale At HPR

September 30, 2020

Andrew Lee (184) leading Ryan Burke (1) in the Race of the Rockies at High Plains Raceway. Photo by Luke Hummel Photography, courtesy MRA.