Ivan Ortola was fastest in Moto3 World Championship practice Friday afternoon at Motegi, in Japan. Riding his MT Helmets – MSI KTM on Pirelli control tires, the Spaniard did a lap time of 1:55.550, which was good enough to lead the 26-rider field and also broke Jaume Masia’s 2023 All-Time Lap Record of 1:56.148
Angel Piqueras was second-best with a 1:55.707 on his Leopard Racing Honda.
David Alonso did a third-quickest 1:55.717 on his Gaviota Aspar Team CFMOTO.
Moto3 classification friday
Grand Rapids, MI – Buell Motorcycles has partnered with Fox Factory to develop a high-performance motorcycle suspension for their new Super Cruiser. As Buell prepares to launch the highly anticipated Super Cruiser, this development highlights the deep-rooted heritage in American performance products for both companies.
“Capturing the performance of a 175hp motorcycle requires a finely tuned suspension and chassis systems,” said Bill Melvin, CEO of Buell Motorcycle Co. “We’re super excited to develop our performance suspension with Fox Factory, as they are one of the best suspension companies in the world, and now together we’ll have an American built suspension that’s world class!”
FOX is world-renowned for developing performance suspension systems and are world renowned for high performance applications. This partnership signifies the shared dedication to creating a ride that stays true to Buell’s tradition of providing a motorcycle with unrivaled handling characteristics; power, precision, and the ultimate connection between rider and machine.
“We are thrilled to partner with Buell as they continue to drive cutting edge innovation with the Super Cruiser,” said Mike Dennison, CEO of Fox Factory. “The partnership represents Buell and FOX’s commitment to supporting our combined broad enthusiast base of avid motorcyclists with the best technology available.”
In addition to this partnership, Buell is implementing a dual disc braking system to keep up with global export requirements and the global demand for Buell products.
Buell remains committed to delivering an unmatched riding experience, steeped in the passion and resilience our community knows and loves. As Buell gears up for production of the Super Cruiser, details will be shared about what’s coming next for Buell enthusiasts everywhere.
About Buell Motorcycles:
Buell Motorcycles is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer known for its rich heritage, exceptional performance, and unwavering commitment to rider satisfaction. With 40 years of experience, Buell Motorcycles continues to push boundaries and deliver exhilarating two-wheeled experiences.
Website: www.BuellMotorcycle.com
About Fox Factory Holding Corp. (NASDAQ: FOXF)
Fox Factory Holding Corp. is a global leader in the design and manufacturing of premium products that deliver championship-level performance for specialty sports and on- and off-road vehicles. Its portfolio of brands, like FOX, Marucci, Method Race Wheels, and more, are fueled by unparalleled innovation that continuously earns the trust of professional athletes and passionate enthusiasts all around the world. The Company is a direct supplier of shocks, suspension, and components to leading powered vehicle and bicycle original equipment manufacturers. It also provides products in the aftermarket through its global network of retailers and distributors and through direct-to-consumer channels.
FOX is a registered trademark of Fox Factory, Inc. NASDAQ Global Select Market is a registered trademark of The NASDAQ OMX Group, Inc. All rights reserved.
Own the road with the all-new and exciting Vitpilen 801 from Husqvarna Mobility. Beneath its perfectly balanced chassis, distinctive Bi-LED projector lens headlight, and roadster-inspired aesthetics, a compact and powerful parallel-twin engine delivers exceptional torque to the rear wheel with a simple twist of the wrist. The Vitpilen 801, available in two color options, is expertly engineered to provide an engaging riding experience, whether navigating busy city streets or conquering the open road.
At the heart of the new Vitpilen 801 is the DOHC, 799cc parallel-twin engine. Weighing just 52 kg without oil, the powerplant offers a peak power output of 105 hp at 9,250 rpm and 87 Nm of torque at 8,000 rpm. These outstanding figures underline the performance of the engine, which features active crankcase evacuation and a semi-dry sump lubrication system to create long service intervals of 15,000 km.
Multiple state-of-the-art electronic rider aids add additional layers of customisation to the Vitpilen 801. A choice of four ride modes alters the engine performance, with Street, Sport and Rain as pre-set and the customisable Dynamic mode, ensuring maximum rideability on the road ahead. Together with Easy Shift, cornering ABS, and cornering MTC, the street riding experience is exceptional in all conditions.
With the engine acting as a stressed member of the chromium-molybdenum steel frame, overall weight is kept to a minimum, resulting in an agile yet stable feeling on the roads. Enhancing the connection between the Vitpilen 801 and the asphalt, easily adjustable WP APEX suspension offers 140 mm of fork travel and 150 mm of shock travel, in addition to the cast alloy 17” wheels that are fitted with Michelin Road 6 tyres for the highest levels of grip.
Completing the premium build of the new Vitpilen 801 is an extensive list of components and technical hardware. For highly effective stopping power, a J.Juan brake system, together with Bosch ABS, delivers confidence-inspiring braking performance. Providing maximum stability under heavy braking is the Power Assist Slipper Clutch (PASC), which also maximises traction under hard acceleration.
A 5” TFT dashboard, featuring an optically bonded mineral glass display to prevent glare, is conveniently positioned in front of the handlebars. Once the rider has downloaded the Ride Husqvarna Motorcycles app onto their smartphone and connected it to the machine’s Connectivity Unit, Turn-by-Turn navigation is available, along with the option to control telephone calls and music selection.
Technical highlights:
New Bi-LED projector lens headlight with a separate light ring provides a unique and progressive identity
Chromium-molybdenum steel frame with engine as a stressed member
799 cc parallel-twin engine with 105 hp peak power and 87 Nm of torque
Adjustable WP APEX suspension provides exceptional comfort and performance on flowing roads and through narrow urban environments
Four selectable ride modes (Street, Rain, Sport, Dynamic optional)
Cornering-sensitive Traction Control (allows for 10 levels of adjustable rear wheel slip in optional Dynamic mode)
Cutting-edge cornering ABS with switchable Supermoto mode (in the optional Dynamic ride mode)
Ride-by-wire throttle with adjustable throttle response
Optional Easy Shift function
Standard Connectivity Unit provides TbT+ navigation, telephone call-in/out, and music selection functionality from the rider’s smartphone
Hazard Warning system with integrated handlebar switch
Extensive range of Technical Accessories available
The 2025 Vitpilen 801 will be available worldwide from November 2024 onwards through all authorised Husqvarna Mobility dealerships. Availability may differ from country to country. For all details on pricing and availability, please refer to your national Husqvarna Mobility subsidiary or importer.
MotoGP™ partners with TNT Sports in the U.S.
Every Sprint and every Grand Prix race will be shown live across the U.S. in 2024
Thursday, 07 March 2024
MotoGP™ has a new broadcast home in the U.S. through an expanded media rights agreement with TNT Sports. Beginning with this weekend’s Qatar Airways Grand Prix of Qatar, fans across the U.S. will be able to watch every Tissot Sprint and Grand Prix race live in 2024 across TNT Sports’ networks and platforms.
truTV and Max’s B/R Sports Add-On will show every race of this record-breaking MotoGP™ season live, including top quality pre-race coverage. Max’s B/R Sports Add-On will also stream every session for every Grand Prix class across all three days of track activity, including the MotoGP™ qualifying shootout and the Grand Prix races for Moto2™ and Moto3™.
This partnership between MotoGP™ and TNT Sports represents a new era for live MotoGP™ coverage in the U.S., bringing TNT Sports’ world-class production and coverage to a U.S. audience that is passionate for high-octane motorsports.
MotoGP™ joins Max’s B/R Sports Add-On, which offers exceptional value with a full slate of premium live sports content included, such as the MLB, NHL, NBA, NCAA Men’s March Madness, U.S. Soccer, 24 Hours of Le Mans and a variety of non-live sports programming to appeal to every fan.
Fans can start tuning in to the record-breaking 2024 MotoGP™ season on truTV and Max’s B/R Sports Add-On this weekend as the Qatar Airways Grand Prix of Qatar marks the return of the world’s most exciting sport from the 8th to the 10th of March.
About TNT Sports
TNT Sports is a global leader in the delivery of premium sports content. The TNT Sports U.S. portfolio includes expansive, multi-platform partnerships with the National Basketball Association, Major League Baseball, the NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Championship, National Hockey League, United States Soccer Federation, NASCAR (coming in 2025) and a premier golf franchise in The Match. Owned and operated platforms are highlighted by Bleacher Report, the #1 digital destination for young sports fans, along with House of Highlights, HighlightHER, Golf Digest, and a full suite of digital and social portfolio brands. Additionally, TNT Sports co-manages NBA Digital — comprised of NBA TV, NBA.com, NBA LEAGUE Pass, the NBA App and NBAGLEAGUE.com — as well as NCAA.com and NCAA March Madness Live. TNT Sports in Europe and the Republic of Ireland includes partnerships with the NBA, Premier League, UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa League, UFC, WWE and more, as well as much-loved brands Eurosport, Global Cycling Network (GCN), Global Mountain Bike Network (GMBN) and multi-sport programming and content on discovery+ and Discovery’s free-to-air TV networks.
About MotoGP™
MotoGP™ is the world’ most exciting sport. The pinnacle of motorcycle racing, 22 of the fastest riders compete on purpose-built motorcycles on some of the world’s greatest racetracks, reaching top speeds above 360 kilometers per hour (223 miles per hour) and lean angles of over 60 degrees. Since 1949, the sport has grown to comprise more than 20 Grands Prix across five continents, with the television broadcast reaching hundreds of millions around the world.
In 2023, Brian Case was promoted from Director of the Barber Advanced Design Center to Executive Director of the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum, in Birmingham, Alabama. Now one year in, the former motorcycle designer is hitting the gas to expand the visibility of the world’s largest collection of motorcycles by promoting the stories behind them. And Case started off big.
“The big thing is Kenny Roberts (a.k.a. King Kenny Leroy Roberts or Kenny Senior),” Case said in an exclusive interview with Roadracing World. “He is the Grand Marshal for the 19th Annual Barber Vintage Festival.”
Not only will Roberts attend the event, he will ride exhibition laps on his 1980 500cc World Championship-winning Yamaha YZR500, which Roberts has given to the Barber Motorsports Museum to add to its permanent collection.
And Roberts won’t be alone at the event. His son, Kenny Lee Roberts [a.k.a. Kenny Roberts Junior], will ride alongside him on his 2000 500cc World Championship-winning Suzuki RGV500, which has also been donated to the museum’s permanent collection.
“That bike has not run in 24 years,” said Case. “So, we are working to re-commission it so that it can run in October so father and son can be reunited on their machines at the glorious Barber Motorsports Park.”
According to Case, conversations with King Kenny Roberts went on for 18 months leading up to the deal and the plans being officially announced during the MotoGP event at Circuit of The Americas (COTA) in April.
“It’s a big deal for Barber, but I think it’s even bigger for the Roberts legacy that it’s going to be preserved in a collection such as Barber’s,” said Case. “This is something that I’ve learned has a very long view. The Barber vintage collection is not going away, you know. You read about museums closing and changing hands. The visionary founder whose idea and passion it was to start it in the first place passes on, and then the family doesn’t know what to do with it. That isn’t going to happen at Barber.
“It’s really unique in the world of historic museum collections. It was set up [by founder George Barber] 30 years ago as a private foundation, and it’s a 501(c)3 non-profit, and it’s designed to run forever. So, when you get that out of the way and you realize, OK, now I’m thinking in terms of preserving history for all time, it’s not just a collection that nobody is going to see.
“So, all of that was communicated to Kenny, and it was just a no-brainer at the end of it. It was just like, this is where it needs to be. It needs to live here forever and tell the story of Kenny Roberts for many future generations. And I get really excited about that side of it. The history of it.”
To warm-up for the Barber Vintage Festival, Case and his staff took the Roberts family, and their bikes, and a 1964 ex-John Surtees Ferrrari racecar to the Goodwood Festival of Speed July 11-14 in England.
“They rode up the hill on the bikes they had just given to the Barber museum,” said Case. “So, I was really excited about that. That brought attention to the museum back here.”
To further amplify the message of the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum, veteran powersports industry spokesman and motorcycle enthusiast Robert Pandya has been brought on as the museum’s new Communications Director.
“I look at all of these machines sitting here and they are just stories to me. Every single one of them,” said Case. “And we’re really going to work hard at engaging outside these four walls more and not just expecting people to find us on their journey down the road. You know we’re going to go after them and expand beyond the four walls. Take the stories to them.”
The 19th Annual Barber Vintage Festival, which also includes the Bridgestone Tires AHRMA Roadracing Series 2024 season finale, is scheduled for October 11-13, 2024, and tickets are on sale now at
Triumph Motorcycles reveals its first 450cc motocross bike, designed in collaboration with the GOAT, Ricky Carmichael.
The All-New Triumph TF 450-RC Edition celebrates Ricky Carmichael’s involvement throughout Triumph’s motocross programme, and features Ricky Carmichael’s chosen specification and signature graphics.
Developed by world-leading Triumph engineers and Motocross Champions, the TF 450-RC Edition features the strongest power to weight ratio in its class. Triumph’s new 450cc competition motocross powertrain is compact, mass-optimised and built to take the holeshot. Engineering, design and equipment working in harmony for class leading power, control, and flexibility.
The colour design prominently incorporates Triumph’s Performance Yellow with black and white accents. It also includes RC’s iconic number 4, GOAT logo and key sponsor details, adding a personalised flair that reflects the spirit of this motocross legend. This design is carried across number boards, swingarm decals, and other visual elements, reinforcing the bike’s unique identity.
Triumph’s Chief Product Officer Steve Sargent said: “At the end of 2023, Triumph revealed the long-awaited TF 250-X – the first in an all-new range of off-road motorcycles. We now have a brand new 450cc competition motocross powertrain, which Ricky Carmichael, who is without doubt the very best in the business, has worked with us to develop. The TF 450-RC Edition offers a balance of power, precision and durability that sets a new standard in the 450cc motocross class. It seems only right that the first edition should have Ricky’s name on it.”
POWER DELIVERY
The TF 450-RC’s single-cylinder, SOHC 450cc engine is built for racing, delivering robust power while minimizing weight giving a power-to-weight ratio that leads the class.
At the core of this engine are top-tier components, including a Konig-forged aluminium piston, which provides strength and durability at high speeds, and DelWest titanium valves for improved airflow and faster actuation. The TF 450-RC’s 5-speed gearbox, with a quickshifter fitted as standard for clutchless upshifts from 2nd to 5th gear, ensures seamless power delivery for maximum focus on the track.
The 450cc engine’s combustion chamber is fully machined for optimal airflow and efficiency. The 3-axis machined combustion chamber and ports ensure precise geometry for peak performance, while diamond-like carbon (DLC) coated rockers reduce friction, improving the engine’s efficiency and longevity.
The TF 450-RC’s 450 airbox and intake system ensures that the engine gets a consistent, high volume of air, which is critical for performance and efficiency. The intake system is paired with an air filter by TwinAir, known for its durability and filtration efficiency. The tool-free filter access makes it easy to maintain the bike in rugged conditions, ensuring optimal airflow at all times.
The TF 450-RC is equipped with a cutting-edge engine management and intake/exhaust system designed to deliver exceptional performance and control. At its core, the bike features a Dellorto throttle body integrated with an Athena engine management system, ensuring precise fuel delivery and throttle response. This system allows riders to fine-tune parameters like traction control and launch control via the MX Tune Pro smartphone app, offering adaptable performance for varying track conditions.
The TF 450-RC features selectable engine maps, including a unique map customized by Ricky Carmichael to deliver the exact power and control he demands.
BUILT TO WIN
With its narrow profile, the 450cc engine has improved ergonomics that allow riders more control and comfort. It is housed in light magnesium covers for further weight reduction. The high-capacity clutch features a steel basket and plates designed to handle the demands of racing, ensuring durability during intense use. The hydraulic clutch actuation, with Brembo master and slave cylinders, ensures smooth and consistent clutch control.
Precision, control and durability are at the forefront of the TF 450-RC’s design, especially with the inclusion of the ODI RC4 Signature handlebars. Made from triple-butted, tapered wall tubing, these bars are designed to deliver a perfect balance of strength and flex. Constructed from seamless 2014-T6 alloy and hard-anodized for enhanced durability, the bars feature oversized clamps and half-waffle ODI lock-on grips, ensuring excellent rider comfort, vibration dampening, and impact resistance.
The top engine mounts on the TF 450-RC were hand-picked by Ricky to enhance handling, especially under heavy front-end loads. This setup ensures the bike maintains optimal control and stability during even the most demanding rides.
The XTrig Holeshot Device gives riders the perfect start by preloading the front suspension, lowering the centre of gravity and reducing front wheel lift for quicker acceleration. The bike is also equipped as standard with a Triumph Racing Hinson clutch cover, a front disc guard to deflect debris and impacts, and a gripper seat cover to reduce slipping and enhance rider control. These premium components elevate the TF 450-RC’s overall performance and reliability.
EXHAUST SYSTEM
The exhaust system of the TF 450-RC is designed to complement its high-performance engine. The standard model features a lightweight stainless-steel exhaust with an integrated resonator to improve cylinder evacuation, and hydroformed components for optimised routing and high gas flow.
For riders looking for an even higher level of performance, an Akrapovič titanium exhaust is available as an accessory, with a dedicated engine map to optimize the engine’s output. This system ensures that exhaust gases are efficiently expelled, minimizing backpressure and enhancing engine performance, particularly at high RPMs.
ADVANCED ALUMINIUM CHASSIS
The TF 450-RC features a unique aluminium chassis, designed to provide a perfect balance of performance, mass and flexibility. The frame’s spine and twin cradle design offer exceptional strength while minimizing weight, contributing to the bike’s overall agility and handling on the track. Hand TIG-welded craftsmanship ensures durability and precision in every detail.
The chassis has been race-optimized for longitudinal, lateral, and torsional stiffness, ensuring the best performance under extreme conditions. This allows for exceptional handling and provides the rider with precise feedback and control during intense riding. The result is a chassis that delivers top-tier performance and reliability, tailored for competitive racing.
The light and nimble aluminium chassis of the TF 450-RC plays a crucial role in achieving its class-leading power-to-weight ratio. By minimizing the overall weight of the bike, the chassis allows the powerful 450cc engine to deliver exceptional acceleration and performance. This combination of a high-performance engine and a lightweight frame gives riders unmatched agility, control, and speed, making the TF 450-RC a top contender in its class.
Key design elements, including new upper and lower aluminium triple clamps, and dedicated top end mounts, are engineered to handle the increased power and loads. This optimized stiffness provides superior stability and responsiveness, giving riders the confidence to push the bike to its limits.
The KYB AOS coil suspension on the TF 450-RC is designed for superior shock absorption and handling. Featuring an Air-Oil Separation (AOS) system, this suspension ensures smoother, more consistent damping by preventing oil aeration, which results in more precise control and stability across various terrains. Paired with this is the three-way piggyback shock, which allows for fine-tuning of compression, rebound, and preload settings. This ensures that the suspension can be fully customized to the rider’s preferences and track conditions, providing enhanced handling, traction, and comfort, especially during high-speed and demanding motocross events.
CONFIDENCE AND CONTROL
The TF 450-RC features premium braking components for maximum control. Brembo calipers and levers provide precise, responsive braking, while Galfer discs offer durability and excellent heat dissipation. This combination ensures smooth, reliable braking performance, even under heavy use, giving riders confidence and control in all racing conditions.
The TF 450-RC features D.I.D DirtStar rims, providing excellent impact resistance and stability in tough motocross conditions. Paired with Dunlop Geomax MX34 tyres, which offer superior traction and control, this setup ensures optimal grip and performance across various surfaces. With Progressive Cornering Block Technology (PCBT) and advanced mud evacuation, these tyres provide a consistent performance even in challenging conditions. Together, the wheels, tyres and technology deliver exceptional handling, stability, and control on any track.
EXTRA EQUIPMENT AND ACCESSORIES
The TF 450-RC is built for durability and performance, ensuring riders can keep racing with minimal downtime. With premium components, Triumph’s renowned quality, and world-class support, the bike is designed to be reliable in the toughest conditions. A new network of specialist dealers and a 24/7 parts supply system provide quick access to servicing and parts, keeping riders on the track with minimal interruptions.
Riders can also use the 24/7 parts supply system to add specialist equipment and accessories to their TF 450-RC Edition, ranging from an Akrapovič titanium exhaust with dedicated engine map, to WiFi module kit, and from air filter covers to a Gripper seat.
Rossi Moor’s performance was encouraging on the first day of Moto2 testing at the Motorland circuit in Aragon.
The adventure of the American-Hungarian rider Rossi Moor in the Moto2 category finally began at the official tests at Motorland in Aragon, tests carried out in preparation for next weekend’s race (12-13 October) of the JuniorGP that will be held on the same circuit.
It was exciting for Rossi, who for the first time in his career rode the Moto2 racebike of Massimiliano Morlacchi’s Team MMR.
The two-day test program includes five daily sessions of 40 minutes each in which Rossi and his team will have the opportunity to find the right setup to be competitive.
The first day went beyond expectations and Rossi was very fast, progressing in lap time in all sessions.
Unfortunately, due to the light rain that started to fall in the early afternoon, Rossi was unable to complete the day’s program, but the Team is still very happy with the results achieved.
Rossi has shown that he can learn the characteristics of the Moto2 racebike very quickly, which as we know is a prototype bike that is also used in the MotoGP World Championship.
Unfortunately there are no official results at the test but at the end of the day Rossi recorded a very interesting lap time, ranking among the best.
Today the work will continue and Rossi will have the opportunity to improve even more with the bike setup and maybe be even faster.
Rossi Moor: “It was really a great emotion to get on a Moto2 for the first time but I felt very comfortable, we worked on the set-up and I think we have already reached a good level that allowed me to make very interesting lap times. I have to thank Massimo Morlacchi and my technicians and mechanics for the great work they have done and will do. I would also like to thank Revesz Racing, PolyglassUSA and my management for giving me this opportunity. I can’t wait for the next race weekend to finally be able to race in the Moto2 category of the JuniorGP.”
Massimiliano Morlacchi: “I am very happy to have first of all a new American rider in my Team. Rossi has shown to have an excellent attitude to adapt quickly on this bike and I expect the progression to continue to be able to reach lap times of absolute importance. There is still a lot of work to do but I am sure that with the technical package that we have and kilometer after kilometer Rossi will reach the objectives set. I thank Rossi, Stefano Favaro and all his management for believing in our project. Welcome Rossi!”
The final part of a fascinating triple-header in MotoGP™ has arrived as we land at the beautiful Motegi for the Motul Grand Prix of Japan! After an afternoon exploring the world renowned Asakusa district and Sensō-ji Temple in Tokyo on Wednesday, there was plenty to get stuck into on media day.
Press Conference 1 saw Championship leader Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing) sit alongside title rival Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) before Pedro Acosta (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3) and Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™) were joined by home hero Takaaki Nakagami (IDEMITSU Honda LCR) for Press Conference 2.
JORGE MARTIN (Prima Pramac Racing)
After Mandalika, do you feel it’s a two-horse race for the World Championship?
“Mandalika was an intense weekend after I crashed on Saturday and then Enea and Marc out of the race on Sunday. It has been a long time since I thought it would be just Pecco and myself for the title, and there are still five races. I think there is still a chance for them, if someone can do it, it’s them, but I feel it’s quite difficult at the moment, so I feel it’s Pecco and myself. For me, it’s a pleasure to be able to fight with Championships like Pecco and Marc and an amazing rider like Enea, so let’s see what will happen. I think they have a chance, but it is difficult.”
Do you feel like it is your time and feel ready this year?
“I will give my 100% as always, I think I am a different rider compared to last season, last year, I felt super strong and maybe even faster than last season, but I am maybe more complete, let’s say. As I said, it’s a pleasure to be here again with Pecco, I remember this a lot from the last part of last season when we were always doing some sort of press conferences together. It is good to be here again for both of us, as we have been the best out of all the riders again, and let’s see what we can achieve.”
Do you see this track as a chance to build on the 21-point lead?
“For sure, last weekend was incredible, even if I lost some points in the Championship, I felt super good after winning again. Since Le Mans was tough, it has been a rollercoaster, I have been quite close to winning on some Sundays, but then I made some mistakes. It was really emotional and good to win, but now we start from zero. I don’t care about last season, last year was a different situation, I was coming from behind, trying to attack, and I won the Sprint and Sunday’s race, but I think this time it will be different and tough. I saw that the weather forecast is unpredictable, so it will be difficult and challenging, so I will give it my best, but we will see.”
FRANCESCO BAGNAIA (Ducati Lenovo Team)
Do you see it as a straight fight between you and Jorge for the title?
“From the start of the season, more or less, we have been making the difference from the rest. It is true that mathematically, it’s possible for Enea and Marc to be Champions. We have to consider them, as myself and Jorge know better than anybody else how easy it is to make a mistake and have a crash this season. It’s something that can change quickly, and I will consider it until it’s no longer mathematically possible. But it is true that half of the season, we are the two that have always been leading the races and the sessions, and I think until Valencia, it will be like this.”
Do you think it’ll be harder to beat Martin this year?
“It looks exactly the same, but in the opposite way around. I think it is nice to battle with Jorge again, it’s always a fair battle, fair fight and fair respect between us. I think it will be the same situation this season, it’s nice to be fighting again like this, and it would be nice to have a battle between us before the finish of the season, but it is a continuation and not a rematch of last season. I think the better rider will win; it was a tough season with mistakes from both of us, but it is true that Jorge was more consistent compared to myself. For the next races, we need to make a little step in performance as we were missing something in the last races, but I am very happy to be here and to fight until the end with Jorge, who I think is super strong.”
Is Motegi a good chance for you to take some more points back his weekend?
“Considering the track and considering the performance of Jorge in Mandalika, we have to look at last weekend in a positive way, gaining three points at a track that suits Jorge. Motegi is a track that I like and a track that suits my rider style better than Mandalika, we have a lot of braking points and acceleration, and it is similar to Austria, which is a track I feel good at. The weather could be different compared to the rest of the season it looks like it could rain on Sunday. We have to be prepared for any situation, and I think our performance could get us a good result and gain points on Jorge.”
PEDRO ACOSTA (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3)
Fantastic result last weekend and on paper a lot of people think this track will suit the RC16, so how hopeful are you to be in the mix for the podium?
“Let’s see, it’s true that normally this track suits our bike a lot and last season, Brad and Jack, without the difficult race, were quite competitive, and the previous year also, Brad was on the podium. We hope that we have improved, and also the way that we are working that we are using, we are hoping to be also closer than we were Mandalika.”
Do you feel you are close to the level to win one of the last five GP?
“It’s true that we have made improvements in the last four/five races, it’s true that in Mandalika, it was important to finish the race as in both races in Misano, we were competitive, but then I crashed in both. Because of this, it was necessary to get more info on race distance, hopefully, we can continue working in this way as we are closer.”
How big is it to have Aki Ajo in your corner in the future?
“I am super happy about this; he is a special character for sure and a character that in the past has helped me a lot. I liked how direct he is, and I was talking this afternoon with him, and I think we will make a good match together.”
FABIO QUARTARARO (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™)
Do you feel you can break into the top six this weekend?
“Well, Misano I was in the top five but let’s see this weekend, especially here there are a lot of acceleration points, we know that we miss some power so it will be crucial. But let’s see if we can get into Q2 tomorrow as it will be nice.”
What are the strengths of your package which can help you this weekend?
“We improved the braking and the edge grip when braking, not in acceleration. I think with that much braking we can be inside the top 10 on Friday as like I said it can change your weekend completely. I hope and I expect to be there on Friday.”
Are you expecting more updates from now until the end of the season and have you been updated on the V4 engine?
“I am not really focused on this engine as right now is the present and we have to give our best to feel the improvement. Yamaha has brought four different chassis in the last five races and it’s already a big thing that we didn’t used to see in the past. Hopefully this weekend the new chassis helps the rear grip.”
TAKAAKI NAKAGAMI (IDEMITSU Honda LCR)
I imagine it will be an emotional weekend for you, how are you feeling about saying goodbye and farewell to the Japanese crowd this weekend?
“There will be sad emotions, of course, it will be my last home GP as a full-time rider. At the moment, I feel that it doesn’t change anything, and I feel the exact same as in the past. Of course, it’s something special because it is my home GP, but nothing more. Day by day, it will change, but at the moment, it is okay, there is no different feeling.”
Tell us about your new helmet for this weekend…
“This time, I wanted to completely change the idea, it is more of an autumn style, and there is also the layout of Motegi on the side, and I mentioned that it is a Japanese GP limited edition. I like it because it is a different idea and the colour, so I love it.”
What is a realistic target for you this weekend?
“On my side, I switched to the new aero package during the race weekend, last weekend from Saturday morning. So on Friday, I used the previous one, which is good because we can understand it better. Then on Saturday and Sunday, we decided to use the new aero package, back to back, and we can clearly see the difference, which is helping the bike during the turning phase, but the bike is a bit more unstable. I was able to feel a positive feeling, but the main issue is a lack of rear grip and then a little bit too much wheelie on the exit of the corner. Here in Motegi, it is a typical stop-and-go track, so I am a little bit worried about the exit of corners, but we already have a plan to try and reduce the wheelie and improve the bike balance, so hopefully, we can find a good feeling as soon as possible.”
Yuki Okamoto won Round 7 of the MFJ All Japan Road Race Championship Series, held September 30th at Okayama International Circuit.
Riding for the Yamaha Factory Racing Team, Okamoto won the 21-lap race by 2.567 seconds over his rival Ryo Mizuno on a Ducati Panigale V4 R.
Championship leader Katsuyuki Nakasuga finished in third despite a shoulder injury from a crash on Friday.
With his race victory, Okamoto is only 4 points behind his teammate Nakasuga, who has 192 points. Mizuno is third with 153 points.
JSB1000_Race_result
Elliot and Behmer Secure Final Premier Class Race Wins of the 2024 Season
The eighth round of the 2024 MRA Championship Series took place at High Plains Raceway over the weekend of September 28-29th on the 2.55-mile Full Course configuration.
Race of the Rockies Qualifying on Sunday saw Kreece Elliot secure pole position with a best time of 1:46.750, followed closely by Brad Hendry at 1:47.617 and Gage Mollman at 1:49.617.
Coming into the final premier class race of the season, Hendry only needed to finish 13th or better to lock up the championship. The Start of Race of the Rockies GTO saw Elliot get the holeshot going into turn one, followed closely by Hendry and Mollman. Exiting turn three, Hendry had a big moment which caused him to run off the track. He was able to keep the bike up and rejoined the race in sixth place and down five seconds from Elliot in the lead. After lap one, Elliot had opened a two second gap back to Mollman in second. Hendry was steadily making his way back through the pack, and by lap three, he was already back in third place. By this point, Elliot had opened a four and a half second lead and was laying down lap times in the low 1:47s. By lap six, Hendry was closing in on Mollman and was within one second, but a small mistake from Hendry going into turn one cost him a bit of time and allowed Mollman to open the gap back up. Elliot continued to extend the gap to second place on every lap and ultimately finished the race 19 seconds ahead of Mollman in second. This was Elliot’s first ever RoR premier class win. Hendry finished out the race in third place and secured the 2024 RoR premier class championship and earned the #1 plate for the 2025 season.
In Race of the Rockies GTU, Justen Behmer was looking to secure his first ever RoR GTU class championship, needing to finish 10th or better. The start of the race saw Behmer get an excellent launch, and take the hole shot going into turn one followed by Dennis Stowers and Jesse Kurk. Behmer had been riding excellent all weekend, and today was no different. Once out in front he got his head down and put down some excellent lap times in the 1:53’s, something no other GTU rider could match. By the end of the third lap, he had already opened a six second lead to Stowers in second. By lap four, Kevin Caputo took over third place from Kurk. On lap seven, Stowers was sitting comfortably in second place until he hit a false neutral going into turn six which caused him to run off the track and bottom out on the rough surface. Fearing a mechanical issue from the off roading experience, Stower pulled into the pit for a quick check of the bike, and returned to the race a short time later in last place. This allowed for Caputo ultimately to take second place, with Kurk finishing in third. With the dominating performance from Behmer, he earned his first ever RoR GTU class championship.
That concludes our 2024 season. The MRA would like to thank all the safety crew members, racers, friends, and family that made this season a remarkable success.
The MRA welcomes racers from other clubs across the nation. If you’re a currently licensed racer, we have several reciprocity agreements in place and would love to race with you in 2025. Click here for MRA membership & entry information.
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 mra-racing.org.
2024 MRA Round 8 Results for RRW
Ivan Ortola was fastest in Moto3 World Championship practice Friday afternoon at Motegi, in Japan. Riding his MT Helmets – MSI KTM on Pirelli control tires, the Spaniard did a lap time of 1:55.550, which was good enough to lead the 26-rider field and also broke Jaume Masia’s 2023 All-Time Lap Record of 1:56.148
Angel Piqueras was second-best with a 1:55.707 on his Leopard Racing Honda.
David Alonso did a third-quickest 1:55.717 on his Gaviota Aspar Team CFMOTO.
Moto3 classification friday
Grand Rapids, MI – Buell Motorcycles has partnered with Fox Factory to develop a high-performance motorcycle suspension for their new Super Cruiser. As Buell prepares to launch the highly anticipated Super Cruiser, this development highlights the deep-rooted heritage in American performance products for both companies.
“Capturing the performance of a 175hp motorcycle requires a finely tuned suspension and chassis systems,” said Bill Melvin, CEO of Buell Motorcycle Co. “We’re super excited to develop our performance suspension with Fox Factory, as they are one of the best suspension companies in the world, and now together we’ll have an American built suspension that’s world class!”
FOX is world-renowned for developing performance suspension systems and are world renowned for high performance applications. This partnership signifies the shared dedication to creating a ride that stays true to Buell’s tradition of providing a motorcycle with unrivaled handling characteristics; power, precision, and the ultimate connection between rider and machine.
“We are thrilled to partner with Buell as they continue to drive cutting edge innovation with the Super Cruiser,” said Mike Dennison, CEO of Fox Factory. “The partnership represents Buell and FOX’s commitment to supporting our combined broad enthusiast base of avid motorcyclists with the best technology available.”
In addition to this partnership, Buell is implementing a dual disc braking system to keep up with global export requirements and the global demand for Buell products.
Buell remains committed to delivering an unmatched riding experience, steeped in the passion and resilience our community knows and loves. As Buell gears up for production of the Super Cruiser, details will be shared about what’s coming next for Buell enthusiasts everywhere.
About Buell Motorcycles:
Buell Motorcycles is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer known for its rich heritage, exceptional performance, and unwavering commitment to rider satisfaction. With 40 years of experience, Buell Motorcycles continues to push boundaries and deliver exhilarating two-wheeled experiences.
Website: www.BuellMotorcycle.com
About Fox Factory Holding Corp. (NASDAQ: FOXF)
Fox Factory Holding Corp. is a global leader in the design and manufacturing of premium products that deliver championship-level performance for specialty sports and on- and off-road vehicles. Its portfolio of brands, like FOX, Marucci, Method Race Wheels, and more, are fueled by unparalleled innovation that continuously earns the trust of professional athletes and passionate enthusiasts all around the world. The Company is a direct supplier of shocks, suspension, and components to leading powered vehicle and bicycle original equipment manufacturers. It also provides products in the aftermarket through its global network of retailers and distributors and through direct-to-consumer channels.
FOX is a registered trademark of Fox Factory, Inc. NASDAQ Global Select Market is a registered trademark of The NASDAQ OMX Group, Inc. All rights reserved.
Own the road with the all-new and exciting Vitpilen 801 from Husqvarna Mobility. Beneath its perfectly balanced chassis, distinctive Bi-LED projector lens headlight, and roadster-inspired aesthetics, a compact and powerful parallel-twin engine delivers exceptional torque to the rear wheel with a simple twist of the wrist. The Vitpilen 801, available in two color options, is expertly engineered to provide an engaging riding experience, whether navigating busy city streets or conquering the open road.
At the heart of the new Vitpilen 801 is the DOHC, 799cc parallel-twin engine. Weighing just 52 kg without oil, the powerplant offers a peak power output of 105 hp at 9,250 rpm and 87 Nm of torque at 8,000 rpm. These outstanding figures underline the performance of the engine, which features active crankcase evacuation and a semi-dry sump lubrication system to create long service intervals of 15,000 km.
Multiple state-of-the-art electronic rider aids add additional layers of customisation to the Vitpilen 801. A choice of four ride modes alters the engine performance, with Street, Sport and Rain as pre-set and the customisable Dynamic mode, ensuring maximum rideability on the road ahead. Together with Easy Shift, cornering ABS, and cornering MTC, the street riding experience is exceptional in all conditions.
With the engine acting as a stressed member of the chromium-molybdenum steel frame, overall weight is kept to a minimum, resulting in an agile yet stable feeling on the roads. Enhancing the connection between the Vitpilen 801 and the asphalt, easily adjustable WP APEX suspension offers 140 mm of fork travel and 150 mm of shock travel, in addition to the cast alloy 17” wheels that are fitted with Michelin Road 6 tyres for the highest levels of grip.
Completing the premium build of the new Vitpilen 801 is an extensive list of components and technical hardware. For highly effective stopping power, a J.Juan brake system, together with Bosch ABS, delivers confidence-inspiring braking performance. Providing maximum stability under heavy braking is the Power Assist Slipper Clutch (PASC), which also maximises traction under hard acceleration.
A 5” TFT dashboard, featuring an optically bonded mineral glass display to prevent glare, is conveniently positioned in front of the handlebars. Once the rider has downloaded the Ride Husqvarna Motorcycles app onto their smartphone and connected it to the machine’s Connectivity Unit, Turn-by-Turn navigation is available, along with the option to control telephone calls and music selection.
Technical highlights:
New Bi-LED projector lens headlight with a separate light ring provides a unique and progressive identity
Chromium-molybdenum steel frame with engine as a stressed member
799 cc parallel-twin engine with 105 hp peak power and 87 Nm of torque
Adjustable WP APEX suspension provides exceptional comfort and performance on flowing roads and through narrow urban environments
Four selectable ride modes (Street, Rain, Sport, Dynamic optional)
Cornering-sensitive Traction Control (allows for 10 levels of adjustable rear wheel slip in optional Dynamic mode)
Cutting-edge cornering ABS with switchable Supermoto mode (in the optional Dynamic ride mode)
Ride-by-wire throttle with adjustable throttle response
Optional Easy Shift function
Standard Connectivity Unit provides TbT+ navigation, telephone call-in/out, and music selection functionality from the rider’s smartphone
Hazard Warning system with integrated handlebar switch
Extensive range of Technical Accessories available
The 2025 Vitpilen 801 will be available worldwide from November 2024 onwards through all authorised Husqvarna Mobility dealerships. Availability may differ from country to country. For all details on pricing and availability, please refer to your national Husqvarna Mobility subsidiary or importer.
MotoGP™ partners with TNT Sports in the U.S.
Every Sprint and every Grand Prix race will be shown live across the U.S. in 2024
Thursday, 07 March 2024
MotoGP™ has a new broadcast home in the U.S. through an expanded media rights agreement with TNT Sports. Beginning with this weekend’s Qatar Airways Grand Prix of Qatar, fans across the U.S. will be able to watch every Tissot Sprint and Grand Prix race live in 2024 across TNT Sports’ networks and platforms.
truTV and Max’s B/R Sports Add-On will show every race of this record-breaking MotoGP™ season live, including top quality pre-race coverage. Max’s B/R Sports Add-On will also stream every session for every Grand Prix class across all three days of track activity, including the MotoGP™ qualifying shootout and the Grand Prix races for Moto2™ and Moto3™.
This partnership between MotoGP™ and TNT Sports represents a new era for live MotoGP™ coverage in the U.S., bringing TNT Sports’ world-class production and coverage to a U.S. audience that is passionate for high-octane motorsports.
MotoGP™ joins Max’s B/R Sports Add-On, which offers exceptional value with a full slate of premium live sports content included, such as the MLB, NHL, NBA, NCAA Men’s March Madness, U.S. Soccer, 24 Hours of Le Mans and a variety of non-live sports programming to appeal to every fan.
Fans can start tuning in to the record-breaking 2024 MotoGP™ season on truTV and Max’s B/R Sports Add-On this weekend as the Qatar Airways Grand Prix of Qatar marks the return of the world’s most exciting sport from the 8th to the 10th of March.
About TNT Sports
TNT Sports is a global leader in the delivery of premium sports content. The TNT Sports U.S. portfolio includes expansive, multi-platform partnerships with the National Basketball Association, Major League Baseball, the NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Championship, National Hockey League, United States Soccer Federation, NASCAR (coming in 2025) and a premier golf franchise in The Match. Owned and operated platforms are highlighted by Bleacher Report, the #1 digital destination for young sports fans, along with House of Highlights, HighlightHER, Golf Digest, and a full suite of digital and social portfolio brands. Additionally, TNT Sports co-manages NBA Digital — comprised of NBA TV, NBA.com, NBA LEAGUE Pass, the NBA App and NBAGLEAGUE.com — as well as NCAA.com and NCAA March Madness Live. TNT Sports in Europe and the Republic of Ireland includes partnerships with the NBA, Premier League, UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa League, UFC, WWE and more, as well as much-loved brands Eurosport, Global Cycling Network (GCN), Global Mountain Bike Network (GMBN) and multi-sport programming and content on discovery+ and Discovery’s free-to-air TV networks.
About MotoGP™
MotoGP™ is the world’ most exciting sport. The pinnacle of motorcycle racing, 22 of the fastest riders compete on purpose-built motorcycles on some of the world’s greatest racetracks, reaching top speeds above 360 kilometers per hour (223 miles per hour) and lean angles of over 60 degrees. Since 1949, the sport has grown to comprise more than 20 Grands Prix across five continents, with the television broadcast reaching hundreds of millions around the world.
In 2023, Brian Case was promoted from Director of the Barber Advanced Design Center to Executive Director of the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum, in Birmingham, Alabama. Now one year in, the former motorcycle designer is hitting the gas to expand the visibility of the world’s largest collection of motorcycles by promoting the stories behind them. And Case started off big.
“The big thing is Kenny Roberts (a.k.a. King Kenny Leroy Roberts or Kenny Senior),” Case said in an exclusive interview with Roadracing World. “He is the Grand Marshal for the 19th Annual Barber Vintage Festival.”
Not only will Roberts attend the event, he will ride exhibition laps on his 1980 500cc World Championship-winning Yamaha YZR500, which Roberts has given to the Barber Motorsports Museum to add to its permanent collection.
And Roberts won’t be alone at the event. His son, Kenny Lee Roberts [a.k.a. Kenny Roberts Junior], will ride alongside him on his 2000 500cc World Championship-winning Suzuki RGV500, which has also been donated to the museum’s permanent collection.
“That bike has not run in 24 years,” said Case. “So, we are working to re-commission it so that it can run in October so father and son can be reunited on their machines at the glorious Barber Motorsports Park.”
According to Case, conversations with King Kenny Roberts went on for 18 months leading up to the deal and the plans being officially announced during the MotoGP event at Circuit of The Americas (COTA) in April.
“It’s a big deal for Barber, but I think it’s even bigger for the Roberts legacy that it’s going to be preserved in a collection such as Barber’s,” said Case. “This is something that I’ve learned has a very long view. The Barber vintage collection is not going away, you know. You read about museums closing and changing hands. The visionary founder whose idea and passion it was to start it in the first place passes on, and then the family doesn’t know what to do with it. That isn’t going to happen at Barber.
“It’s really unique in the world of historic museum collections. It was set up [by founder George Barber] 30 years ago as a private foundation, and it’s a 501(c)3 non-profit, and it’s designed to run forever. So, when you get that out of the way and you realize, OK, now I’m thinking in terms of preserving history for all time, it’s not just a collection that nobody is going to see.
“So, all of that was communicated to Kenny, and it was just a no-brainer at the end of it. It was just like, this is where it needs to be. It needs to live here forever and tell the story of Kenny Roberts for many future generations. And I get really excited about that side of it. The history of it.”
To warm-up for the Barber Vintage Festival, Case and his staff took the Roberts family, and their bikes, and a 1964 ex-John Surtees Ferrrari racecar to the Goodwood Festival of Speed July 11-14 in England.
“They rode up the hill on the bikes they had just given to the Barber museum,” said Case. “So, I was really excited about that. That brought attention to the museum back here.”
To further amplify the message of the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum, veteran powersports industry spokesman and motorcycle enthusiast Robert Pandya has been brought on as the museum’s new Communications Director.
“I look at all of these machines sitting here and they are just stories to me. Every single one of them,” said Case. “And we’re really going to work hard at engaging outside these four walls more and not just expecting people to find us on their journey down the road. You know we’re going to go after them and expand beyond the four walls. Take the stories to them.”
The 19th Annual Barber Vintage Festival, which also includes the Bridgestone Tires AHRMA Roadracing Series 2024 season finale, is scheduled for October 11-13, 2024, and tickets are on sale now at
Triumph Motorcycles reveals its first 450cc motocross bike, designed in collaboration with the GOAT, Ricky Carmichael.
The All-New Triumph TF 450-RC Edition celebrates Ricky Carmichael’s involvement throughout Triumph’s motocross programme, and features Ricky Carmichael’s chosen specification and signature graphics.
Developed by world-leading Triumph engineers and Motocross Champions, the TF 450-RC Edition features the strongest power to weight ratio in its class. Triumph’s new 450cc competition motocross powertrain is compact, mass-optimised and built to take the holeshot. Engineering, design and equipment working in harmony for class leading power, control, and flexibility.
The colour design prominently incorporates Triumph’s Performance Yellow with black and white accents. It also includes RC’s iconic number 4, GOAT logo and key sponsor details, adding a personalised flair that reflects the spirit of this motocross legend. This design is carried across number boards, swingarm decals, and other visual elements, reinforcing the bike’s unique identity.
Triumph’s Chief Product Officer Steve Sargent said: “At the end of 2023, Triumph revealed the long-awaited TF 250-X – the first in an all-new range of off-road motorcycles. We now have a brand new 450cc competition motocross powertrain, which Ricky Carmichael, who is without doubt the very best in the business, has worked with us to develop. The TF 450-RC Edition offers a balance of power, precision and durability that sets a new standard in the 450cc motocross class. It seems only right that the first edition should have Ricky’s name on it.”
POWER DELIVERY
The TF 450-RC’s single-cylinder, SOHC 450cc engine is built for racing, delivering robust power while minimizing weight giving a power-to-weight ratio that leads the class.
At the core of this engine are top-tier components, including a Konig-forged aluminium piston, which provides strength and durability at high speeds, and DelWest titanium valves for improved airflow and faster actuation. The TF 450-RC’s 5-speed gearbox, with a quickshifter fitted as standard for clutchless upshifts from 2nd to 5th gear, ensures seamless power delivery for maximum focus on the track.
The 450cc engine’s combustion chamber is fully machined for optimal airflow and efficiency. The 3-axis machined combustion chamber and ports ensure precise geometry for peak performance, while diamond-like carbon (DLC) coated rockers reduce friction, improving the engine’s efficiency and longevity.
The TF 450-RC’s 450 airbox and intake system ensures that the engine gets a consistent, high volume of air, which is critical for performance and efficiency. The intake system is paired with an air filter by TwinAir, known for its durability and filtration efficiency. The tool-free filter access makes it easy to maintain the bike in rugged conditions, ensuring optimal airflow at all times.
The TF 450-RC is equipped with a cutting-edge engine management and intake/exhaust system designed to deliver exceptional performance and control. At its core, the bike features a Dellorto throttle body integrated with an Athena engine management system, ensuring precise fuel delivery and throttle response. This system allows riders to fine-tune parameters like traction control and launch control via the MX Tune Pro smartphone app, offering adaptable performance for varying track conditions.
The TF 450-RC features selectable engine maps, including a unique map customized by Ricky Carmichael to deliver the exact power and control he demands.
BUILT TO WIN
With its narrow profile, the 450cc engine has improved ergonomics that allow riders more control and comfort. It is housed in light magnesium covers for further weight reduction. The high-capacity clutch features a steel basket and plates designed to handle the demands of racing, ensuring durability during intense use. The hydraulic clutch actuation, with Brembo master and slave cylinders, ensures smooth and consistent clutch control.
Precision, control and durability are at the forefront of the TF 450-RC’s design, especially with the inclusion of the ODI RC4 Signature handlebars. Made from triple-butted, tapered wall tubing, these bars are designed to deliver a perfect balance of strength and flex. Constructed from seamless 2014-T6 alloy and hard-anodized for enhanced durability, the bars feature oversized clamps and half-waffle ODI lock-on grips, ensuring excellent rider comfort, vibration dampening, and impact resistance.
The top engine mounts on the TF 450-RC were hand-picked by Ricky to enhance handling, especially under heavy front-end loads. This setup ensures the bike maintains optimal control and stability during even the most demanding rides.
The XTrig Holeshot Device gives riders the perfect start by preloading the front suspension, lowering the centre of gravity and reducing front wheel lift for quicker acceleration. The bike is also equipped as standard with a Triumph Racing Hinson clutch cover, a front disc guard to deflect debris and impacts, and a gripper seat cover to reduce slipping and enhance rider control. These premium components elevate the TF 450-RC’s overall performance and reliability.
EXHAUST SYSTEM
The exhaust system of the TF 450-RC is designed to complement its high-performance engine. The standard model features a lightweight stainless-steel exhaust with an integrated resonator to improve cylinder evacuation, and hydroformed components for optimised routing and high gas flow.
For riders looking for an even higher level of performance, an Akrapovič titanium exhaust is available as an accessory, with a dedicated engine map to optimize the engine’s output. This system ensures that exhaust gases are efficiently expelled, minimizing backpressure and enhancing engine performance, particularly at high RPMs.
ADVANCED ALUMINIUM CHASSIS
The TF 450-RC features a unique aluminium chassis, designed to provide a perfect balance of performance, mass and flexibility. The frame’s spine and twin cradle design offer exceptional strength while minimizing weight, contributing to the bike’s overall agility and handling on the track. Hand TIG-welded craftsmanship ensures durability and precision in every detail.
The chassis has been race-optimized for longitudinal, lateral, and torsional stiffness, ensuring the best performance under extreme conditions. This allows for exceptional handling and provides the rider with precise feedback and control during intense riding. The result is a chassis that delivers top-tier performance and reliability, tailored for competitive racing.
The light and nimble aluminium chassis of the TF 450-RC plays a crucial role in achieving its class-leading power-to-weight ratio. By minimizing the overall weight of the bike, the chassis allows the powerful 450cc engine to deliver exceptional acceleration and performance. This combination of a high-performance engine and a lightweight frame gives riders unmatched agility, control, and speed, making the TF 450-RC a top contender in its class.
Key design elements, including new upper and lower aluminium triple clamps, and dedicated top end mounts, are engineered to handle the increased power and loads. This optimized stiffness provides superior stability and responsiveness, giving riders the confidence to push the bike to its limits.
The KYB AOS coil suspension on the TF 450-RC is designed for superior shock absorption and handling. Featuring an Air-Oil Separation (AOS) system, this suspension ensures smoother, more consistent damping by preventing oil aeration, which results in more precise control and stability across various terrains. Paired with this is the three-way piggyback shock, which allows for fine-tuning of compression, rebound, and preload settings. This ensures that the suspension can be fully customized to the rider’s preferences and track conditions, providing enhanced handling, traction, and comfort, especially during high-speed and demanding motocross events.
CONFIDENCE AND CONTROL
The TF 450-RC features premium braking components for maximum control. Brembo calipers and levers provide precise, responsive braking, while Galfer discs offer durability and excellent heat dissipation. This combination ensures smooth, reliable braking performance, even under heavy use, giving riders confidence and control in all racing conditions.
The TF 450-RC features D.I.D DirtStar rims, providing excellent impact resistance and stability in tough motocross conditions. Paired with Dunlop Geomax MX34 tyres, which offer superior traction and control, this setup ensures optimal grip and performance across various surfaces. With Progressive Cornering Block Technology (PCBT) and advanced mud evacuation, these tyres provide a consistent performance even in challenging conditions. Together, the wheels, tyres and technology deliver exceptional handling, stability, and control on any track.
EXTRA EQUIPMENT AND ACCESSORIES
The TF 450-RC is built for durability and performance, ensuring riders can keep racing with minimal downtime. With premium components, Triumph’s renowned quality, and world-class support, the bike is designed to be reliable in the toughest conditions. A new network of specialist dealers and a 24/7 parts supply system provide quick access to servicing and parts, keeping riders on the track with minimal interruptions.
Riders can also use the 24/7 parts supply system to add specialist equipment and accessories to their TF 450-RC Edition, ranging from an Akrapovič titanium exhaust with dedicated engine map, to WiFi module kit, and from air filter covers to a Gripper seat.
Rossi Moor’s performance was encouraging on the first day of Moto2 testing at the Motorland circuit in Aragon.
The adventure of the American-Hungarian rider Rossi Moor in the Moto2 category finally began at the official tests at Motorland in Aragon, tests carried out in preparation for next weekend’s race (12-13 October) of the JuniorGP that will be held on the same circuit.
It was exciting for Rossi, who for the first time in his career rode the Moto2 racebike of Massimiliano Morlacchi’s Team MMR.
The two-day test program includes five daily sessions of 40 minutes each in which Rossi and his team will have the opportunity to find the right setup to be competitive.
The first day went beyond expectations and Rossi was very fast, progressing in lap time in all sessions.
Unfortunately, due to the light rain that started to fall in the early afternoon, Rossi was unable to complete the day’s program, but the Team is still very happy with the results achieved.
Rossi has shown that he can learn the characteristics of the Moto2 racebike very quickly, which as we know is a prototype bike that is also used in the MotoGP World Championship.
Unfortunately there are no official results at the test but at the end of the day Rossi recorded a very interesting lap time, ranking among the best.
Today the work will continue and Rossi will have the opportunity to improve even more with the bike setup and maybe be even faster.
Rossi Moor: “It was really a great emotion to get on a Moto2 for the first time but I felt very comfortable, we worked on the set-up and I think we have already reached a good level that allowed me to make very interesting lap times. I have to thank Massimo Morlacchi and my technicians and mechanics for the great work they have done and will do. I would also like to thank Revesz Racing, PolyglassUSA and my management for giving me this opportunity. I can’t wait for the next race weekend to finally be able to race in the Moto2 category of the JuniorGP.”
Massimiliano Morlacchi: “I am very happy to have first of all a new American rider in my Team. Rossi has shown to have an excellent attitude to adapt quickly on this bike and I expect the progression to continue to be able to reach lap times of absolute importance. There is still a lot of work to do but I am sure that with the technical package that we have and kilometer after kilometer Rossi will reach the objectives set. I thank Rossi, Stefano Favaro and all his management for believing in our project. Welcome Rossi!”
The final part of a fascinating triple-header in MotoGP™ has arrived as we land at the beautiful Motegi for the Motul Grand Prix of Japan! After an afternoon exploring the world renowned Asakusa district and Sensō-ji Temple in Tokyo on Wednesday, there was plenty to get stuck into on media day.
Press Conference 1 saw Championship leader Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing) sit alongside title rival Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) before Pedro Acosta (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3) and Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™) were joined by home hero Takaaki Nakagami (IDEMITSU Honda LCR) for Press Conference 2.
JORGE MARTIN (Prima Pramac Racing)
After Mandalika, do you feel it’s a two-horse race for the World Championship?
“Mandalika was an intense weekend after I crashed on Saturday and then Enea and Marc out of the race on Sunday. It has been a long time since I thought it would be just Pecco and myself for the title, and there are still five races. I think there is still a chance for them, if someone can do it, it’s them, but I feel it’s quite difficult at the moment, so I feel it’s Pecco and myself. For me, it’s a pleasure to be able to fight with Championships like Pecco and Marc and an amazing rider like Enea, so let’s see what will happen. I think they have a chance, but it is difficult.”
Do you feel like it is your time and feel ready this year?
“I will give my 100% as always, I think I am a different rider compared to last season, last year, I felt super strong and maybe even faster than last season, but I am maybe more complete, let’s say. As I said, it’s a pleasure to be here again with Pecco, I remember this a lot from the last part of last season when we were always doing some sort of press conferences together. It is good to be here again for both of us, as we have been the best out of all the riders again, and let’s see what we can achieve.”
Do you see this track as a chance to build on the 21-point lead?
“For sure, last weekend was incredible, even if I lost some points in the Championship, I felt super good after winning again. Since Le Mans was tough, it has been a rollercoaster, I have been quite close to winning on some Sundays, but then I made some mistakes. It was really emotional and good to win, but now we start from zero. I don’t care about last season, last year was a different situation, I was coming from behind, trying to attack, and I won the Sprint and Sunday’s race, but I think this time it will be different and tough. I saw that the weather forecast is unpredictable, so it will be difficult and challenging, so I will give it my best, but we will see.”
FRANCESCO BAGNAIA (Ducati Lenovo Team)
Do you see it as a straight fight between you and Jorge for the title?
“From the start of the season, more or less, we have been making the difference from the rest. It is true that mathematically, it’s possible for Enea and Marc to be Champions. We have to consider them, as myself and Jorge know better than anybody else how easy it is to make a mistake and have a crash this season. It’s something that can change quickly, and I will consider it until it’s no longer mathematically possible. But it is true that half of the season, we are the two that have always been leading the races and the sessions, and I think until Valencia, it will be like this.”
Do you think it’ll be harder to beat Martin this year?
“It looks exactly the same, but in the opposite way around. I think it is nice to battle with Jorge again, it’s always a fair battle, fair fight and fair respect between us. I think it will be the same situation this season, it’s nice to be fighting again like this, and it would be nice to have a battle between us before the finish of the season, but it is a continuation and not a rematch of last season. I think the better rider will win; it was a tough season with mistakes from both of us, but it is true that Jorge was more consistent compared to myself. For the next races, we need to make a little step in performance as we were missing something in the last races, but I am very happy to be here and to fight until the end with Jorge, who I think is super strong.”
Is Motegi a good chance for you to take some more points back his weekend?
“Considering the track and considering the performance of Jorge in Mandalika, we have to look at last weekend in a positive way, gaining three points at a track that suits Jorge. Motegi is a track that I like and a track that suits my rider style better than Mandalika, we have a lot of braking points and acceleration, and it is similar to Austria, which is a track I feel good at. The weather could be different compared to the rest of the season it looks like it could rain on Sunday. We have to be prepared for any situation, and I think our performance could get us a good result and gain points on Jorge.”
PEDRO ACOSTA (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3)
Fantastic result last weekend and on paper a lot of people think this track will suit the RC16, so how hopeful are you to be in the mix for the podium?
“Let’s see, it’s true that normally this track suits our bike a lot and last season, Brad and Jack, without the difficult race, were quite competitive, and the previous year also, Brad was on the podium. We hope that we have improved, and also the way that we are working that we are using, we are hoping to be also closer than we were Mandalika.”
Do you feel you are close to the level to win one of the last five GP?
“It’s true that we have made improvements in the last four/five races, it’s true that in Mandalika, it was important to finish the race as in both races in Misano, we were competitive, but then I crashed in both. Because of this, it was necessary to get more info on race distance, hopefully, we can continue working in this way as we are closer.”
How big is it to have Aki Ajo in your corner in the future?
“I am super happy about this; he is a special character for sure and a character that in the past has helped me a lot. I liked how direct he is, and I was talking this afternoon with him, and I think we will make a good match together.”
FABIO QUARTARARO (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™)
Do you feel you can break into the top six this weekend?
“Well, Misano I was in the top five but let’s see this weekend, especially here there are a lot of acceleration points, we know that we miss some power so it will be crucial. But let’s see if we can get into Q2 tomorrow as it will be nice.”
What are the strengths of your package which can help you this weekend?
“We improved the braking and the edge grip when braking, not in acceleration. I think with that much braking we can be inside the top 10 on Friday as like I said it can change your weekend completely. I hope and I expect to be there on Friday.”
Are you expecting more updates from now until the end of the season and have you been updated on the V4 engine?
“I am not really focused on this engine as right now is the present and we have to give our best to feel the improvement. Yamaha has brought four different chassis in the last five races and it’s already a big thing that we didn’t used to see in the past. Hopefully this weekend the new chassis helps the rear grip.”
TAKAAKI NAKAGAMI (IDEMITSU Honda LCR)
I imagine it will be an emotional weekend for you, how are you feeling about saying goodbye and farewell to the Japanese crowd this weekend?
“There will be sad emotions, of course, it will be my last home GP as a full-time rider. At the moment, I feel that it doesn’t change anything, and I feel the exact same as in the past. Of course, it’s something special because it is my home GP, but nothing more. Day by day, it will change, but at the moment, it is okay, there is no different feeling.”
Tell us about your new helmet for this weekend…
“This time, I wanted to completely change the idea, it is more of an autumn style, and there is also the layout of Motegi on the side, and I mentioned that it is a Japanese GP limited edition. I like it because it is a different idea and the colour, so I love it.”
What is a realistic target for you this weekend?
“On my side, I switched to the new aero package during the race weekend, last weekend from Saturday morning. So on Friday, I used the previous one, which is good because we can understand it better. Then on Saturday and Sunday, we decided to use the new aero package, back to back, and we can clearly see the difference, which is helping the bike during the turning phase, but the bike is a bit more unstable. I was able to feel a positive feeling, but the main issue is a lack of rear grip and then a little bit too much wheelie on the exit of the corner. Here in Motegi, it is a typical stop-and-go track, so I am a little bit worried about the exit of corners, but we already have a plan to try and reduce the wheelie and improve the bike balance, so hopefully, we can find a good feeling as soon as possible.”
Yuki Okamoto won Round 7 of the MFJ All Japan Road Race Championship Series, held September 30th at Okayama International Circuit.
Riding for the Yamaha Factory Racing Team, Okamoto won the 21-lap race by 2.567 seconds over his rival Ryo Mizuno on a Ducati Panigale V4 R.
Championship leader Katsuyuki Nakasuga finished in third despite a shoulder injury from a crash on Friday.
With his race victory, Okamoto is only 4 points behind his teammate Nakasuga, who has 192 points. Mizuno is third with 153 points.
JSB1000_Race_result
Elliot and Behmer Secure Final Premier Class Race Wins of the 2024 Season
The eighth round of the 2024 MRA Championship Series took place at High Plains Raceway over the weekend of September 28-29th on the 2.55-mile Full Course configuration.
Race of the Rockies Qualifying on Sunday saw Kreece Elliot secure pole position with a best time of 1:46.750, followed closely by Brad Hendry at 1:47.617 and Gage Mollman at 1:49.617.
Coming into the final premier class race of the season, Hendry only needed to finish 13th or better to lock up the championship. The Start of Race of the Rockies GTO saw Elliot get the holeshot going into turn one, followed closely by Hendry and Mollman. Exiting turn three, Hendry had a big moment which caused him to run off the track. He was able to keep the bike up and rejoined the race in sixth place and down five seconds from Elliot in the lead. After lap one, Elliot had opened a two second gap back to Mollman in second. Hendry was steadily making his way back through the pack, and by lap three, he was already back in third place. By this point, Elliot had opened a four and a half second lead and was laying down lap times in the low 1:47s. By lap six, Hendry was closing in on Mollman and was within one second, but a small mistake from Hendry going into turn one cost him a bit of time and allowed Mollman to open the gap back up. Elliot continued to extend the gap to second place on every lap and ultimately finished the race 19 seconds ahead of Mollman in second. This was Elliot’s first ever RoR premier class win. Hendry finished out the race in third place and secured the 2024 RoR premier class championship and earned the #1 plate for the 2025 season.
In Race of the Rockies GTU, Justen Behmer was looking to secure his first ever RoR GTU class championship, needing to finish 10th or better. The start of the race saw Behmer get an excellent launch, and take the hole shot going into turn one followed by Dennis Stowers and Jesse Kurk. Behmer had been riding excellent all weekend, and today was no different. Once out in front he got his head down and put down some excellent lap times in the 1:53’s, something no other GTU rider could match. By the end of the third lap, he had already opened a six second lead to Stowers in second. By lap four, Kevin Caputo took over third place from Kurk. On lap seven, Stowers was sitting comfortably in second place until he hit a false neutral going into turn six which caused him to run off the track and bottom out on the rough surface. Fearing a mechanical issue from the off roading experience, Stower pulled into the pit for a quick check of the bike, and returned to the race a short time later in last place. This allowed for Caputo ultimately to take second place, with Kurk finishing in third. With the dominating performance from Behmer, he earned his first ever RoR GTU class championship.
That concludes our 2024 season. The MRA would like to thank all the safety crew members, racers, friends, and family that made this season a remarkable success.
The MRA welcomes racers from other clubs across the nation. If you’re a currently licensed racer, we have several reciprocity agreements in place and would love to race with you in 2025. Click here for MRA membership & entry information.
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 mra-racing.org.
2024 MRA Round 8 Results for RRW
