Round seven of 2025 MotoGP gets underway this weekend at Silverstone and to warm-up for a prestigious round of the calendar, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing have aligned with renowned collector car and motorsport auction house, RM Sotheby’s, for a special offering: The chance to own a 2023 KTM RC16.
A sealed auction will take place for the opportunity to purchase a fully functional and run-ready MotoGP prototype. The online based sale begins after the checkered flag falls at the British Grand Prix. The bidding will start from Monday 26th May and lasts until Thursday 29th May. The KTM RC16 in question was used by Brad Binder in the 2023 MotoGP championship and was responsible for setting the current top speed record of 366.1km/h, clocked at the Mugello circuit and the Italian round of the series.
In 2023 Red Bull KTM Factory Racing climbed the podium nine times between Grands Prix and Sprints and Binder finished 4th in the Riders Championship as KTM classified as runners-up in the Constructors standings. RM Sotheby’s was established almost 50-years ago and has become as a leading global auction house for rare and exclusive automobiles and private collections.
As part of Sotheby’s – one of the world’s most historic and respected auction houses with a global network of 80 offices in 40 countries – RM Sotheby’s combines deep automotive expertise with international reach and excellence in client service. In recognition of this unique occasion and the collaboration between Red Bull KTM Factory Racing and RM Sotheby’s, the 2025 KTM RC16s of Brad Binder and Pedro Acosta will carry RM Sotheby’s decals during the British Grand Prix.
Silverstone awaits for the Tissot Grand Prix of the United Kingdom, one of the legacy events on a jam-packed 2025 calendar. Last laps have hosted victory-deciding passes bringing heartbreak and emotion in previous years, whilst 2025 is set to be no different. Following on from a mega French GP which resulted in unbridled joy for the home fans, can Silverstone serve up a treat as the seventh round of the season starts.
FOUR WINNERS IN FOUR GRAND PRIX: unpredictable at the top
Even though Championship leader Marc Marquez (Ducati Lenovo Team) has won every Sprint in the 2025 season, his success hasn’t been as prominent on Sundays. At times he’s been expected to dominate but his own mistakes or inclement weather have kept him from capitalising on his pace. However, two crashes in the French GP for brother and title rival Alex Marquez (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP) mean that 22 points split them in the standings, with Marc back ahead. Like at Lusail, Marc last won at Silverstone in 2014 – whilst Alex won the first Tissot Sprint at the venue in 2023.
Meanwhile, it was a complete disaster at Le Mans for Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team), admitting that unless a good feeling with the bike returns soon, the gap will soon become insurmountable. And that was before a crash on Sunday through zero fault of his own skittled him out of contention. Victory in the 2022 British GP and podiums in 2023 and 2024 are a good CV at Silverstone though, and Bagnaia will be desperate to claw back points and shrink the 51-point margin to teammate Marquez. As for our most recent winner of the season, nobody could have predicted that the oldest rider on the grid, Johann Zarco (CASTROL Honda LCR), would’ve ended France’s 71-year wait for a winner at home. One of the most emotional victories we’re likely to see, the Frenchman’s form in 2025 will be worthy of a watchful eye in the UK.
HOT PROPERTY: Quartararo, Acosta and Aldeguer shine
Back-to-back poles for Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) have seen him on the podium at Jerez before he crashed out of a near-certain podium at his home GP last time out. A winner at Silverstone en-route to the title in 2021, Quartararo and Yamaha’s competitivity will again be something to watch, particularly after the manufacturer’s recent Misano test. For Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing), Le Mans showcased the #37’s strongest weekend thus far, knocking on the door of the podium, only to be pipped by top rookie Fermin Aldeguer (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP), who bagged his first MotoGP rostrum. Both will likely battle it out again in the UK – Acosta got points in both the Sprint and GP last year whilst Aldeguer was the 2023 winner in Moto2™.
PAST WINNERS: Bastianini, Rins and Viñales previous Silverstone masters
Maverick Viñales, now with Red Bull KTM Tech3, is both on form in 2025 and took his first ever GP win at Silverstone. He will most definitely be a rider to keep an eye on. Last year though, it was his now-teammate Enea Bastianini who rode a flawless British GP to secure victory – his penultimate one to date- whilst in 2019, Alex Rins won one of the greatest British GPs in an outstanding final corner pass on eventual Champion Marc Marquez. The aim for both will be altered slightly for 2025, but sights on the top ten will remain with both having featured in there in the last couple of rounds. KTM were strong last year with Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) likewise the first non-Ducati rider home. The South African seeks a return to the top ten after a second DNF of 2025 at Le Mans.
APRILIA HOPES: happy memories from Silverstone
Grand Prix winners in 2023 with Aleix Espargaro, Aprilia come into the British GP after having three bikes inside the top ten at Le Mans. With Jorge Martin (Aprilia Racing) still out injured and replaced by Lorenzo Savadori, teammate Marco Bezzecchi will be expected to fly the flag once again and arrives to a circuit where he was on pole in 2023 and in contention for victory. Raul Fernandez (Trackhouse MotoGP Team) and rookie teammate Ai Ogura both have high hopes for Silverstone, with Fernandez targeting his first back-to-back top tens this season, whilst Ogura seeks three in a row; he was on pole in Moto2™ in 2024.
BOUNCING BACK: riders with points to prove at Round 7
Le Mans wasn’t the easiest for Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team duo Franco Morbidelli and Fabio Di Giannantonio; a top ten last year at Silverstone and P5 in 2019 for Franky will spur him on, whereas is just 11 points behind his teammate in the standings and was fifth last year at the British venue. Elsewhere, Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP duo Jack Miller and Miguel Oliveira hope for a strong showing; Miller crashed at Le Mans and could have been in with a shout of victory whilst Oliveira’s return likewise ended in the gravel despite a strong display in the trickiest of conditions on Sunday. Both have been top four at Silverstone, with Miller on the podium in 2022.
The only rider to score points in every GP so far, Luca Marini (Honda HRC Castrol) aims to continue that form in the UK whilst teammate Joan Mir will undergo an assessment on Thursday following his crash at Le Mans. Somkiat Chantra (IDEMITSU Honda LCR) will also need to be cleared after missing Le Mans due to arm-pump surgery after the Jerez Test. Elsewhere at Honda however there’s a completely new proposition too: former Silverstone winner Aleix Espargaro will wildcard with HRC. That could be interesting – and right after fellow Honda development rider Takaaki Nakagami took P6 at Le Mans on his first wildcard of the year.
Round 5 of the 2025 MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship is done and dusted after an incredible visit to the Autodrom Most. The Motul Czech Round delivered plenty of unforgettable on-track action, but also some fighting talk after the racing concluded. We’ve gathered some of the best quotes from Most below.
Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati): “I think it’s one of the best races of my life… when I saw I did the last corner perfectly, I started to scream in my helmet!”
Discussing his incredible Race 2 win, Bulega said: “I think it’s one of the best races of my life! The weekend was really up and down. It was incredible because Toprak had something more the whole race. I was pushing 150% every lap; I never pushed in a race like this. It was very important for me to win. After Cremona, this track isn’t very good for me. Winning here is very special, especially after the big crash on Friday. I never gave up and, on the last lap, I put 300% on the table. I saw, with two laps to go, some areas I was faster than Toprak. But in other areas, he was faster than me. It was difficult to find a place to overtake him. When I saw I did the last corner perfectly, I started to scream in my helmet. It was a very emotional last corner! Toprak had something more than me, he was faster, but I just tried to copy him; understand how I could lose less time in some parts where he was faster.”
Toprak Razgatlioglu (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team): “I’m really angry because I gave more than 100% effort, but the last lap and last corner exit destroyed everything”
On the flip side, Razgatlioglu was ‘angry’ after losing out on the line: “I don’t know now, maybe it was fuel or an electronics problem. It was only the last lap and exit of the last corner and the straight. I felt it cutting, I did a wheelie, it cut again. I don’t know why. I asked the team and they’re looking at the data. The pace is very strong, Nicolo was pushing so hard; he improved a lot in Race 2. If I didn’t feel any cutting on the straight, maybe I would win the race; normally, the Ducati was passing me after the chequered flag. I’m really angry because I gave more than 100% effort, but the last lap and last corner exit destroyed everything. All I know is that Phil said we had enough fuel. After the chequered flag, I came back in and didn’t feel any cutting again. Maybe it was electronics. Nicolo and I are pushing so hard. He’s riding very well, and the bike works very well.”
Danilo Petrucci (Barni Spark Racing Team): “They are two of the best riders I’ve ever met in my whole career, and I’ve met a lot of great riders!”
Three third-place finishes for Petrucci at Most, who was full of praise for Bulega and Razgatlioglu: “At the start, I was overtaken by Sam, and he had good pace. Unfortunately, we lost touch with Toprak and Nicolo immediately. I had the same pace as Sam. In the middle of the race, he started to move around, and I think he just did one corner not perfectly, and I was there. I’m happy because I was third on the grid, third in all the races, and now I’m third in the Championship. I’m not entirely happy because the gap between me and Toprak and Nicolo was quite huge. We need to understand where they gain so much. I hope at least one of the two goes to MotoGP™, so I can be second sometimes! Jokes apart, kudus to them because they are two of the best riders I’ve ever met in my whole career, and I’ve met a lot of great riders! We’re an Independent team and we are fighting with the factory teams, so I can be happy.”
Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati): “I accept because, for sure, he didn’t intentionally crash”
Bautista was caught up in the crash and said: “The first chicane is quite far from the starting point, and we arrive fast. It’s difficult. Honestly, Rea is one rider who’s coming every time in the safety commission and he’s the first to say, ‘This is very dangerous, you have to move the starting point’ and then he does this. I was lucky that I’m okay. He came to the box to say sorry. I said to him, ‘Yeah, okay, but be careful because you have a lot of experience, you know this corner is very special and you have to be very careful’. He said to me, ‘Oh, stop, I didn’t come here for a lesson, I came here to say sorry; do you accept or not?’. I accept because, for sure, he didn’t intentionally crash. I think the podium was possible. In the Superpole Race, it wasn’t so bad, especially because I made a mistake on Lap 2; I ran wide and lost some time. I think it was realistic to fight for a podium, but this is racing and anything can happen. We made a small change for Race 2, and I was quite confident it was going to help me a little bit. If I compare myself with two years ago, I’m faster, but the Championship is a bit different. There are more riders fighting at the front and the lap times are faster.”
Jonathan Rea (Pata Maxus Yamaha): “Directly after the race, I went to see them all to say, ‘I’m sorry’”
Rea instigated a Turn 1 incident and gave his side of the crash. He said: “From my seat, I got into T1 hot on the inside, and used a bit of inside kerb. I felt I had track position but unfortunately Alvaro was committed to the corner as well. There was impact and I’m really sorry for him as it ended his race, and also the race of Xavi Vierge and compromised Alex Lowes as well. Directly after the race, I went to see them all to say, ‘I’m sorry’. From my point of view, I’m out there racing. I got great starts in all races, using the same kind of strategy down the inside, and this time both Alvaro and I committed to the same bit of tarmac. For me, it’s a racing accident but it’s unfortunate. I’ve been on the receiving end of this before in my career. I had to put my big boy pants on and go and see the guys. I felt this weekend’s been a good step forward for me with the feeling of the bike. I was a little bit more competitive, not where I want to be, but I got 54 race laps this weekend and some good data to give the engineers. We have a two-day test at Misano where we ca explore some different ideas that we have that you sometimes don’t want to test during a race weekend.”
Sam Lowes (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team): “Now, every time I finish, I’m happy but I know I can do a little bit more. I think there’s more to come”
Another excellent weekend for Lowes, who said: “I’m quite happy and it’s given me some confidence. It was a bit harder this weekend. I enjoy this track, it’s difficult. It really highlights the WorldSBK style. It’s a bit smaller and there are many acceleration zones where you go from first to fifth gear with a bit of angle. I’m still missing a bit here. I thought we could fight Danilo in Race 2. It was close but he’s had a bit more speed than me at the end. It’s my best-scoring event of the season. That means things are going in a positive way. I feel like I’ve improved a lot but if I think back to Moto2™ when I was doing well there, how I felt with the bike and I could really take the maximum from it. Now, every time I finish, I’m happy but I know I can do a little bit more. I think there’s more to come. I need to be on the podium a bit more. Last year here was terrible for me. I had the injury so one year makes a big difference.”
Remy Gardner (GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team): “I’m speaking with Yamaha and keeping my options open. There’s nothing planned, I need to see the options first”
An up and down weekend for Gardner, who ended it in P5 in Race 2: “I had a big crash on Friday. I was lucky I could race this weekend, to be honest; my ankle had a previous injury, so it blew up and was pretty sore all weekend. It’s not been fun to ride. I hurt my shoulder at Portimao and hurt it again. I think it was okay. It’s not one of our stronger tracks, but better than Cremona I feel. At Cremona, we struggled a lot. I think, if I wasn’t so banged up after Friday, I could’ve maybe not been on the podium but at least try to hunt down Danilo and Sam and be in that group. At the moment, no update on my future. I’m speaking with Yamaha and keeping my options open. There’s nothing planned, I need to see the options first. Once I have everything on the table, then I’ll make a decision.”
KTM has the money it needs to emerge from bankruptcy protection, the company said in a statement released just before the court-imposed deadline to raise the money needed to continue operations.
“As announced, the creditors of KTM AG, KTM Components GmbH and KTM Forschungs & Entwicklungs GmbH approved a restructuring plan quota of 30% on February 25, 2025, payable by May 23, 2025. The total amount required to finance the quota under the three restructuring plans amounts to approx. EUR 600 million,” PIERER Mobility AG said in a statement posted in its corporate newsroom.
“PIERER Mobility AG and KTM AG have received financing commitments, subject to the execution of the requisite agreements, which will ensure that the quota payments to fulfill the restructuring plans of KTM AG, KTM Components GmbH and KTM Forschungs- & Entwicklungs GmbH can be fulfilled on time by May 23, 2025.”
KTM ceased production and asked for court-supervised self-restructuring proceedings after debts ran to nearly two billion Euros and unsold motorcycle inventories were reported in the range of 130,000 units. Since then, an Austrian court has approved a restructuring plan in which creditors would receive 30 percent of the money due to them.
Bajaj, the Indian conglomerate that is already a partner of KTM, last week announced that it had secured a loan for just over 600 million Euros, leading to speculation that the company would take a greater stake in KTM operations. However, the company did not specifically state that in its announcement.
KTM has said it plans to continue MotoGP World Championship activities.
Buell Re-Enters UK Market, Expanding Global Distribution
Grand Rapids, Michigan: Buell Motorcycle Co. is expanding its global footprint with a highly anticipated return to the United Kingdom through a strategic partnership with Rainbow Moto & Re-Charge Café who will be taking on the Buell MotorBike UK division.
A shipment of Hammerhead 1190 and 1190SX models are expected to arrive in Southampton by the end of May. This marks Buell’s re-entry into the UK market, and both parties couldn’t be more excited.
“We’re excited to bring Buell Motorcycles back to the UK market. This expansion represents a significant milestone in our global strategy, and I appreciate the dedication of our team and Buell MotorBike UK in making this possible,” said Bill Melvin, CEO of Buell Motorcycle Co.
“We at Rainbow Moto & Re-Charge Café, Ashburton, Devon. TQ13 7FF. are overjoyed to finally announce our partnership with Buell Motorcycles, with the first shipment of bikes arriving before the end of May”, said Ian Johnson and Christine Fairhurst, Owners of Rainbow Moto & Re-Charge Café.
This partnership marks the return of Buell to the UK and Europe after being absent for nearly 15 years. Rainbow Moto and Re-Charge Café will be hosting a launch weekend to mark this collaboration (Freedom United) on the 7th & 8 th June 2025, where everyone can finally join in the return of this marque”, said Ian and Christine.
For years, Buell motorcycles have stood out in the American motorcycling landscape by embodying passion, adrenaline, and pure power in every ride. The brand’s commitment to
innovative design and performance has cultivated a dedicated following that extends well
beyond American borders. This partnership with Buell Motorbike UK will reinvigorate that
passion in the UK market, bringing Buell’s distinctive riding experience back to motorcycle
enthusiasts.
Following the initial shipment, Buell plans to increase inventory in subsequent deliveries to
meet anticipated demand. The company is also exploring opportunities to showcase its
upcoming Super Cruiser and SuperTouring models in the UK market in the near future.
Joan Erdesky, Wife Of Motorcycle Excitement and MARRC Founder Roger Lyle
Joan M. Erdesky, 67, of Needmore, PA, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on May 14th, 2025, at her home, after a lengthy battle with breast cancer. She was born on February 10, 1958, in Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA. She was the sixth of seven children born to Lt. Col. Joseph L. Erdesky and Virginia M. Erdesky. Joan is survived by her husband Roger Lyle and identical twin daughters, Charlotte Enfield and Juliette (Tom) Buell and two well-loved cats, Sunny Boy and Cherie.
Joan earned her B.A. in French Language and Literature from the University of Maryland in 1979. She had an impressive career in the Metro DC Area beginning with AAA World Wide Travel and The National Gallery of Art. She then moved into graphic design and taught herself typesetting. This led her to Weadon Printing, where she learned the printing business. Thereafter she was employed by the advertising firms Earle Palmer Brown, RTC Direct, and Loughlin Creative. Joan was employed seasonally by the Smithsonian Institution Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage for 10 years as editor, proofreader, and/or graphic design artist. She also taught graphic design courses at Hagerstown Community College in Hagerstown, MD. Joan worked at the Herald-Mail newspaper in Hagerstown and did page layout and worked for the new Herald-Mail TV station.
Joan’s graphic design expertise further enhanced her husband’s enterprise, Motorcycle Xcitement. With Roger, she developed the website, created forms, graphics, and helped build and maintain the business in all aspects.
Joan M. Erdesky. R.I.P. Photo courtesy Roger Lyle.
She was a volunteer beginning in her youth as a Candy Striper, and later with The Valley Co-op in Hagerstown, MD, The Washington County Commission for Women, Habitat for Humanity, and Hospice. She volunteered for the Star Community Center at the Historic Star Theatre WV in Berkeley Springs WV and served as Treasurer. Joan instilled to her daughters her love of nature, the arts, the importance of kindness and love, and the richness and excitement of life. During Joan’s life, she traveled all over the US, and to Europe and Africa.
She is survived by three sisters, Judith Erdesky of Punxsutawney, PA, Jeanne (Grady) Thompson of Conway, SC, Joyce Denny of Virginia Beach, VA, and brother-in-law Paul Lissy of Lewes, DE.
Joan is also survived by three nephews, Gregory (Karen) Lissy, Adam (Marya) Erdesky, and Bret Denny and two nieces, Diana (Frank) Macchio, and Lindsey (Chris Cunningham) Denny.
She was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers Joseph Erdesky and James Erdesky, and a sister Janice Lissy.
In lieu of flowers, Joan has requested that memorial contributions be made to her favorite charity, DOCTORS WITHOUT BORDERS at www.doctorswithoutborders.org. A celebration of Joan’s life will be held in the near future.
The family has entrusted Joan’s care to Kelso-Cornelius Funeral Home in McConnellsburg, PA. Online condolences may be expressed at www.kelso-corneliusfuneralhome.com.
A celebration of Joan’s life will be held on July 12 at their Blue Heaven Farm. The Shango Mountain Taiko Drummers will be performing in her honor.
This is the 15th time Silverstone has hosted a Grand Prix since MotoGP returned to the circuit in 2010 after a 23-year gap. The first Grand Prix held at Silverstone was in 1977, and was also the first motorcycle Grand Prix to be held on the British mainland. Prior to 1977, the British round of the World Championship had been held on the Isle of Man since 1949. The move was made for reasons of rider safety. The British GP was then held for 10 consecutive years at Silverstone before it moved to Donington Park in 1987. So this is the 25th GP held at Silverstone.
The winners of that first Grand Prix at Silverstone in 1977 were: 500cc – Pat Hennen (Suzuki), 350cc & 250cc – Kork Ballington (Yamaha), 125cc – Pierluigi Conforti (Morbidelli).
The original circuit layout used for the Grand Prix from 1977 to 1986 was 4.71km long. In 1983, Kenny Roberts set the fastest race lap at the circuit, riding a Yamaha at an average speed of 192.2km/h.
When the British GP returned to Silverstone in 2010, it was with a revised circuit layout measuring 5.9 km. Four Brits have won home races at Silverstone: Jake Dixon (Moto2 – 2024), Danny Kent (Moto3 – 2015), Scott Redding (Moto2 – 2013) and Ian McConnachie (80cc – 1986).
MOTOGP WINNERS AT SILVERSTONE ON THE GRID
Marc Marquez (2014) – Maverick Viñales (2016) – Fabio Quartararo (2021) – Alex Rins (2019) – Francesco Bagnaia (2022) –Aleix Espargaro (2023) – Enea Bastianini (2024)
Yamaha’s last MotoGP win at Silverstone was with Quartararo (2021). Yamaha is the most successful manufacturer here with eight wins, including five in the modern era: three with Jorge Lorenzo (2010, 2012 and 2013), one with Valentino Rossi (2015) and one Fabio Quartararo (2021).
Honda’s last MotoGP win here was with Marc Marquez in 2014 from pole. Honda have five wins in the class at Silverstone, including two since 2010 with Casey Stoner (2011) adding to Marquez’ win in 2014.
Ducati have taken three MotoGP wins at Silverstone: in 2017 with Andrea Dovizioso, in 2022 with Francesco Bagnaia and in 2024 with Enea Bastianini. Alex Marquez and Bastianini has won both the Sprints held at Silverstone, in 2023 and in 2024, respectively.
Aprilia have one win at Silverstone, taken in 2023 with Aleix Espargaro. It was their second MotoGP win after Argentina 2022. Aprilia have two other podiums here: P2 in 2022 with Maverick Viñales and P3 in 2021 with Espargaro, which was Aprilia’s first MotoGP™ podium since Jeremy McWilliams at the 2000 British GP at Donington.
KTM’s best MotoGP™ result at Silverstone is Brad Binder’s P3 in 2023.
EXTRA FACTS AND STATS
10 current riders have MotoGP podiums here: Viñales (4), Bagnaia (3), M. Marquez (3), Rins (2), wildcard A. Espargaro (2), Quartararo (1), Miller (1), Bastianini (1), Binder (1), Martin (1).
4 have taken pole: M. Marquez (5), Zarco (1), Bezzecchi (1) and wildcard A. Espargaro (1).
Only one rider has scored points in all six of the MotoGP™ races so far this season: Luca Marini. Two have scored points in all six Tissot Sprints: Marc Marquez, Alex Marquez.
WHAT HAPPENS IF…
2021 Honda riders will be aiming to give the Japanese manufacturer their first wins in back-to-back MotoGP races since 2021 when Marc Marquez won the Americas and the Emilia-Romagna GP.
87 If a Ducati qualifies in the top three, it will be the 87th consecutive GP that a Ducati rider starts on the front row, a run that stretches back to Valencia 2020.
73 Ducati are on a streak of 72 podiums in a row. Another will extend their own record to 73. The last manufacturer with more than 73 podiums in a row is Honda with 83 from the FIM GP 1993 to the Imola GP 1999.
20 Rookie Fermin Aldeguer will be 20 years and 50 days old on Sunday and has his last chance to become the youngest MotoGP winner ahead of Marc Marquez (20 years and 63 days old in Austin, 2013).
11 There have been 10 different winners in the last 10 MotoGP™ races at Silverstone: Lorenzo (2013), Marc Marquez (2014), Rossi (2015), Viñales (2016), Dovizioso (2017), Rins (2019), Quartararo (2021), Bagnaia (2022), A. Espargaro (2023) and Bastianini (2024). Another winner would become the 11th winner in the last 11 races here.
7 If a rider other than Lorenzo (2018), M. Marquez (2019), P. Espargaro (2021), Zarco (2022), Bezzecchi (2023) or A. Espargaro (2024) takes pole, they’ll be the seventh different polesitter in the last seven Grands Prix here.
6 There are six riders on the grid who could take their maiden MotoGP win this weekend: Raul Fernandez, Luca Marini, Pedro Acosta and rookies Ai Ogura, Somkiat Chantra and Fermin Aldeguer.
1 KTM riders could give their factory a maiden premier class win at Silverstone.
Andria Yu Named Vice President of Communications for the Motorcycle Industry Council and Powersports Associations
Andria Yu is the new Vice President of Communications for the Motorcycle Industry Council, Motorcycle Safety Foundation, Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle Association, and Specialty Vehicle Institute of America. Yu served as Director of Media Relations since joining the powersports associations in 2016, and before that had been the front-page editor at USA Today and chief night editor at The Baltimore Sun.
Bringing more than 17 years of journalism experience to the associations, she expanded national media outreach for powersports in her media relations role, helped shape public-facing communications campaigns, and elevated the visibility of motorcycling, ATV riding, and side-by-side driving – and safety awareness – across a wide range of audiences.
Yu has played a key role in cultivating relationships with journalists, influencers, and industry stakeholders across the country. She’s also a longtime on- and off-road motorcyclist and a certified MSF RiderCoach and DirtBike School Coach, and has led training events and media rides that have helped introduce many beginners to the world of two-wheeling. She is also an ATV Safety Institute Instructor and ROHVA DriverCoach.
“Andria brings clarity, strategy, and a rider-first perspective to everything she does,” said Christy LaCurelle, President and CEO of the MIC, MSF, ROHVA, and SVIA. “She’s played a key role in shaping how we communicate with our industry, our members, and the public. Her insight and leadership are invaluable as we continue to grow and evolve. For nearly a decade, she’s helped tell the story of motorcycling to millions, worked with journalists and influencers across the country, and led media and influencer rides that assisted people in riding the right way. Her impact on the industry and our associations has been tremendous.”
Yu is also an experienced spokesperson – who regularly appears on live TV – and video producer, contributing to major campaigns, press events, and educational programs across the associations. In late 2024, she assumed a leadership role following the departure of the previous Communications VP, serving as the primary point of contact for the department. Her guidance ensured communications continuity across the associations during a pivotal transition.
“Strong and consistent communications, across our industry and especially for potential new riders, matter a great deal during this time of economic and marketplace change,” Yu said. “Our current and future association members need to know what’s happening in our industry, how the associations can benefit their companies, and how we can all pull in the same direction and make a difference through collective efforts. And we need to keep reaching out, through all forms of today’s mass media, with messages about the fun and joy that powersports brings to our lives and how to go about it safely. I look forward to working with all our associations’ departments – Membership, Government Relations, Market Expansion, Rider Education, Training Operations, Research, Events, and more, to help keep our members apprised of the work that we do so we can grow engagement and opportunities for all.”
About the MIC
The Motorcycle Industry Council, under its marquee market expansion brand, Ride With Us, is working to introduce everyone to the incomparable thrill of riding a motorcycle. The MIC is a not-for-profit trade association representing motorcycle manufacturers, distributors, aftermarket companies, dealers, retailers, and a variety of related organizations providing vital support to the powersports industry. The MIC advocates for fair policy and regulatory environments, works to deliver valuable data to the industry, and strives to bring the joy of riding to everyone, everywhere.
Established in 1914, the MIC is headquartered in Irvine, Calif., with a government relations office in metropolitan Washington, D.C. Keep up with the industry association on Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube, online at MIC.org, and through the weekly MIC RideReport.
About the MSF
The Motorcycle Safety Foundation promotes safety through rider training and education, operator licensing tests, and public information programs. MSF works with the federal government, state agencies, the military, and others to offer training for all skill levels so riders can enjoy a lifetime of safe, responsible motorcycling. Standards established by MSF have been recognized worldwide since 1973. The MSF is a not-for-profit organization endorsed by American Honda Motor Co., Inc.; BMW Motorrad USA; Bombardier Recreational Products Inc.; Harley-Davidson Motor Company, Inc.; Indian Motorcycle; Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A.; KTM North America, Inc.; Suzuki Motor USA, LLC; Triumph Motorcycles America; and Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. For safety information or to enroll in an MSF Basic RiderCourse near you, or to learn more about the many other MSF course offerings, visit MSF-USA.org or call (800) 446-9227. To keep up with the latest updates, follow the MSF on Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook.
About ROHVA
The Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle Association is the not-for-profit national industry association promoting safe and responsible use of ROVs (also called side-by-sides or UTVs). Accredited by the American National Standards Institute, ROHVA develops standards for the equipment, configuration, and performance requirements of ROVs.
Based in Irvine, Calif., ROHVA is sponsored by American Honda Motor Co., Inc.; Bombardier Recreational Products Inc.; Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A.; Polaris Inc.; Textron Specialized Vehicles; and Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. For safety information or to enroll in the ROV Basic DriverCourse nearest you, visit ROHVA.org or call (866) 267-2751.
About SVIA
The Specialty Vehicle Institute of America is the not-for-profit national industry association promoting safe and responsible use of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) through rider training, public awareness campaigns, and state legislation. The SVIA also works to preserve access to off-road riding areas and expand riding opportunities. Accredited by the American National Standards Institute, the SVIA develops standards for equipment, configuration, and performance requirements of ATVs. Based in Irvine, Calif., the SVIA is sponsored by American Honda Motor Co., Inc.; Bombardier Recreational Products Inc.; CFMOTO Powersports, Inc.; Champion Motorsports Group, LLC; Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A.; Polaris Inc.; Suzuki Motor USA, LLC; Textron Specialized Vehicles; and Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. Visit SVIA.org. For safety information or to enroll in the ATV RiderCourse nearest you, visit ATVSafety.org or call (800) 887-2887.
ASRA 2025 Memorial Day At Summit Point Will Be A Racing Weekend to Remember!
Don’t Miss Memorial Day Weekend at Summit Point
ASRA Race Practice on Friday, May 23rd
ASRA Sprint Races and MiniGP Races on Saturday & Sunday, May 24th-25th
EvolveGT Track Day on Monday, May 26th
David Graham Memorial Lap on Saturday, Remembering The Legendary Announcer Known As “The Mouth Of The South.” He is silent but will never be forgotten…
Massive BBQ Cookout Saturday Evening, No Extra Charge.
Live Music Saturday Evening, Featuring Joe Swanson And The Epics (Doing Classic Rock Covers).
DON’T MISS IT!
Matthew Chapin (95) won five races on his Suzuki GSX-8R at ASRA’s big event at PittRace and will be racing with ASRA at Summit Point on the Memorial Day Weekend. Photo by Noiseless Productions/Vae Vang/ASRA.
Ray withstands the pressure to take terrific treble at Donington Park
Bradley Ray continued his quest for a second Bennetts British Superbike Championship crown with an impressive performance at Donington Park this weekend as he withstood the pressure from his title rivals to claim a hat trick of victories for Raceways Yamaha.
Bradley Ray was the Milwaukee King of Donington, winning all three Superbike races. Here, he is joined on the podium by second-place Glenn Irwin at left and third-place Rory Skinner at right, after the finish of Race Three. BSB Photo.
Ray headed into today’s raceday (Sunday) off the back of victory in yesterday’s opening race and in the second contest of the weekend he added to his winning tally with an impressive performance that kept him ahead of reigning champion Kyle Ryde and Hager PBM Ducati’s Glenn Irwin.
Ray had hit the front of the pack on the opening lap ahead of Ryde and Irwin, with the Hager PBM Ducati rider moving into second on lap two. The Raceways Yamaha rider held the lead until lap four when Irwin moved ahead on the brakes at the Fogarty Esses, but he was instantly on the attack and regained the position at the Melbourne Hairpin just a corner later.
Ray was then defending hard from Irwin, who attempted another move at the Fogarty Esses, but had to stand up the Hager PBM Ducati and run on down the slip road to re-join in fourth place.
Ray then held the advantage over Ryde until the chequered flag, with Rory Skinner holding third place until the final lap when Glenn Irwin made a move to regain the position and make a podium return.
In race three, Ray kept his cool despite the mounting pressure from Glenn Irwin in the closing stages to make it a treble for the Raceways Yamaha team.
Ray had launched into the lead again on the opening lap ahead of Skinner and Glenn Irwin, with Ryde and Leon Haslam completing the top five, but Ryde had a moment on the exit of the Fogarty Esses, which lost him ground and he then dropped behind Haslam and McPhee.
At the front of the pack, Ray was trying to make a break, but Irwin had moved into second place with a dive down the inside at Redgate on lap ten. His Raceways Yamaha rival had bridged a gap of over two seconds by lap 12, but as the laps counted down, Irwin was getting closer as he continued to hunt his rival.
By lap 16, it had dropped to less than a second and as they crossed the line to start the next lap, it had halved again, and then Ray was in range for Irwin to try to make his move. With three laps remaining, it looked like the Hager PBM Ducati rider was going to attack.
Irwin was unsettled on the brakes into the Fogarty Esses, losing ground on Ray again and despite pushing all the way to the finish, he was unable to deny Ray the treble.
Skinner celebrated his first podium with Cheshire Mouldings Ducati since their change of manufacturer this year, holding off Haslam to become the sixth different podium finisher so far this season.
The triple win puts Ray at the top of the standings by 12 points ahead of the next round of the season at Snetterton next month.
Bradley Ray (28) battled Glenn Irwin (2) to win Race Three at Donington Park by 0.396-second. BSB photo.Bradley Ray swept the British Superbike races at Donington Park. BSB photo.
Raceways Yamaha’s Bradley Ray Talks About His Weekend:
“I didn’t really expect to win all three races coming into the weekend – I knew we’d be strong but I didn’t think we’d be in a position to take the triple given how strong Glenn and Kyle were at the test.
“We worked well as a team all weekend, worked hard on used tyres to find our rhythm for the end of the race. Glenn kept me honest in the last race and that one was probably my best win of my BSB career, having to dig deep after Glenn came back to me towards the end!
“I had to find something in myself and the bike to keep him behind, and we did, so I’m happy for myself, Raceways Motorcycles, Yamaha and all my team to back up Saturday’s win with the Sunday double.”
Bennetts British Superbike Championship, Donington Park, Race 2 result:
1. Bradley Ray (Raceways Yamaha)
2. Kyle Ryde (OMG Nitrous Competitions Racing Yamaha) +1.110s
Brad Binder (33) on the 2023 KTM RC16 at Portimao. Photo by Michael Gougis.
Round seven of 2025 MotoGP gets underway this weekend at Silverstone and to warm-up for a prestigious round of the calendar, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing have aligned with renowned collector car and motorsport auction house, RM Sotheby’s, for a special offering: The chance to own a 2023 KTM RC16.
A sealed auction will take place for the opportunity to purchase a fully functional and run-ready MotoGP prototype. The online based sale begins after the checkered flag falls at the British Grand Prix. The bidding will start from Monday 26th May and lasts until Thursday 29th May. The KTM RC16 in question was used by Brad Binder in the 2023 MotoGP championship and was responsible for setting the current top speed record of 366.1km/h, clocked at the Mugello circuit and the Italian round of the series.
In 2023 Red Bull KTM Factory Racing climbed the podium nine times between Grands Prix and Sprints and Binder finished 4th in the Riders Championship as KTM classified as runners-up in the Constructors standings. RM Sotheby’s was established almost 50-years ago and has become as a leading global auction house for rare and exclusive automobiles and private collections.
As part of Sotheby’s – one of the world’s most historic and respected auction houses with a global network of 80 offices in 40 countries – RM Sotheby’s combines deep automotive expertise with international reach and excellence in client service. In recognition of this unique occasion and the collaboration between Red Bull KTM Factory Racing and RM Sotheby’s, the 2025 KTM RC16s of Brad Binder and Pedro Acosta will carry RM Sotheby’s decals during the British Grand Prix.
Silverstone awaits for the Tissot Grand Prix of the United Kingdom, one of the legacy events on a jam-packed 2025 calendar. Last laps have hosted victory-deciding passes bringing heartbreak and emotion in previous years, whilst 2025 is set to be no different. Following on from a mega French GP which resulted in unbridled joy for the home fans, can Silverstone serve up a treat as the seventh round of the season starts.
FOUR WINNERS IN FOUR GRAND PRIX: unpredictable at the top
Even though Championship leader Marc Marquez (Ducati Lenovo Team) has won every Sprint in the 2025 season, his success hasn’t been as prominent on Sundays. At times he’s been expected to dominate but his own mistakes or inclement weather have kept him from capitalising on his pace. However, two crashes in the French GP for brother and title rival Alex Marquez (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP) mean that 22 points split them in the standings, with Marc back ahead. Like at Lusail, Marc last won at Silverstone in 2014 – whilst Alex won the first Tissot Sprint at the venue in 2023.
Meanwhile, it was a complete disaster at Le Mans for Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team), admitting that unless a good feeling with the bike returns soon, the gap will soon become insurmountable. And that was before a crash on Sunday through zero fault of his own skittled him out of contention. Victory in the 2022 British GP and podiums in 2023 and 2024 are a good CV at Silverstone though, and Bagnaia will be desperate to claw back points and shrink the 51-point margin to teammate Marquez. As for our most recent winner of the season, nobody could have predicted that the oldest rider on the grid, Johann Zarco (CASTROL Honda LCR), would’ve ended France’s 71-year wait for a winner at home. One of the most emotional victories we’re likely to see, the Frenchman’s form in 2025 will be worthy of a watchful eye in the UK.
HOT PROPERTY: Quartararo, Acosta and Aldeguer shine
Back-to-back poles for Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) have seen him on the podium at Jerez before he crashed out of a near-certain podium at his home GP last time out. A winner at Silverstone en-route to the title in 2021, Quartararo and Yamaha’s competitivity will again be something to watch, particularly after the manufacturer’s recent Misano test. For Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing), Le Mans showcased the #37’s strongest weekend thus far, knocking on the door of the podium, only to be pipped by top rookie Fermin Aldeguer (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP), who bagged his first MotoGP rostrum. Both will likely battle it out again in the UK – Acosta got points in both the Sprint and GP last year whilst Aldeguer was the 2023 winner in Moto2™.
PAST WINNERS: Bastianini, Rins and Viñales previous Silverstone masters
Maverick Viñales, now with Red Bull KTM Tech3, is both on form in 2025 and took his first ever GP win at Silverstone. He will most definitely be a rider to keep an eye on. Last year though, it was his now-teammate Enea Bastianini who rode a flawless British GP to secure victory – his penultimate one to date- whilst in 2019, Alex Rins won one of the greatest British GPs in an outstanding final corner pass on eventual Champion Marc Marquez. The aim for both will be altered slightly for 2025, but sights on the top ten will remain with both having featured in there in the last couple of rounds. KTM were strong last year with Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) likewise the first non-Ducati rider home. The South African seeks a return to the top ten after a second DNF of 2025 at Le Mans.
APRILIA HOPES: happy memories from Silverstone
Grand Prix winners in 2023 with Aleix Espargaro, Aprilia come into the British GP after having three bikes inside the top ten at Le Mans. With Jorge Martin (Aprilia Racing) still out injured and replaced by Lorenzo Savadori, teammate Marco Bezzecchi will be expected to fly the flag once again and arrives to a circuit where he was on pole in 2023 and in contention for victory. Raul Fernandez (Trackhouse MotoGP Team) and rookie teammate Ai Ogura both have high hopes for Silverstone, with Fernandez targeting his first back-to-back top tens this season, whilst Ogura seeks three in a row; he was on pole in Moto2™ in 2024.
BOUNCING BACK: riders with points to prove at Round 7
Le Mans wasn’t the easiest for Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team duo Franco Morbidelli and Fabio Di Giannantonio; a top ten last year at Silverstone and P5 in 2019 for Franky will spur him on, whereas is just 11 points behind his teammate in the standings and was fifth last year at the British venue. Elsewhere, Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP duo Jack Miller and Miguel Oliveira hope for a strong showing; Miller crashed at Le Mans and could have been in with a shout of victory whilst Oliveira’s return likewise ended in the gravel despite a strong display in the trickiest of conditions on Sunday. Both have been top four at Silverstone, with Miller on the podium in 2022.
The only rider to score points in every GP so far, Luca Marini (Honda HRC Castrol) aims to continue that form in the UK whilst teammate Joan Mir will undergo an assessment on Thursday following his crash at Le Mans. Somkiat Chantra (IDEMITSU Honda LCR) will also need to be cleared after missing Le Mans due to arm-pump surgery after the Jerez Test. Elsewhere at Honda however there’s a completely new proposition too: former Silverstone winner Aleix Espargaro will wildcard with HRC. That could be interesting – and right after fellow Honda development rider Takaaki Nakagami took P6 at Le Mans on his first wildcard of the year.
Round 5 of the 2025 MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship is done and dusted after an incredible visit to the Autodrom Most. The Motul Czech Round delivered plenty of unforgettable on-track action, but also some fighting talk after the racing concluded. We’ve gathered some of the best quotes from Most below.
Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati): “I think it’s one of the best races of my life… when I saw I did the last corner perfectly, I started to scream in my helmet!”
Discussing his incredible Race 2 win, Bulega said: “I think it’s one of the best races of my life! The weekend was really up and down. It was incredible because Toprak had something more the whole race. I was pushing 150% every lap; I never pushed in a race like this. It was very important for me to win. After Cremona, this track isn’t very good for me. Winning here is very special, especially after the big crash on Friday. I never gave up and, on the last lap, I put 300% on the table. I saw, with two laps to go, some areas I was faster than Toprak. But in other areas, he was faster than me. It was difficult to find a place to overtake him. When I saw I did the last corner perfectly, I started to scream in my helmet. It was a very emotional last corner! Toprak had something more than me, he was faster, but I just tried to copy him; understand how I could lose less time in some parts where he was faster.”
Toprak Razgatlioglu (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team): “I’m really angry because I gave more than 100% effort, but the last lap and last corner exit destroyed everything”
On the flip side, Razgatlioglu was ‘angry’ after losing out on the line: “I don’t know now, maybe it was fuel or an electronics problem. It was only the last lap and exit of the last corner and the straight. I felt it cutting, I did a wheelie, it cut again. I don’t know why. I asked the team and they’re looking at the data. The pace is very strong, Nicolo was pushing so hard; he improved a lot in Race 2. If I didn’t feel any cutting on the straight, maybe I would win the race; normally, the Ducati was passing me after the chequered flag. I’m really angry because I gave more than 100% effort, but the last lap and last corner exit destroyed everything. All I know is that Phil said we had enough fuel. After the chequered flag, I came back in and didn’t feel any cutting again. Maybe it was electronics. Nicolo and I are pushing so hard. He’s riding very well, and the bike works very well.”
Danilo Petrucci (Barni Spark Racing Team): “They are two of the best riders I’ve ever met in my whole career, and I’ve met a lot of great riders!”
Three third-place finishes for Petrucci at Most, who was full of praise for Bulega and Razgatlioglu: “At the start, I was overtaken by Sam, and he had good pace. Unfortunately, we lost touch with Toprak and Nicolo immediately. I had the same pace as Sam. In the middle of the race, he started to move around, and I think he just did one corner not perfectly, and I was there. I’m happy because I was third on the grid, third in all the races, and now I’m third in the Championship. I’m not entirely happy because the gap between me and Toprak and Nicolo was quite huge. We need to understand where they gain so much. I hope at least one of the two goes to MotoGP™, so I can be second sometimes! Jokes apart, kudus to them because they are two of the best riders I’ve ever met in my whole career, and I’ve met a lot of great riders! We’re an Independent team and we are fighting with the factory teams, so I can be happy.”
Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati): “I accept because, for sure, he didn’t intentionally crash”
Bautista was caught up in the crash and said: “The first chicane is quite far from the starting point, and we arrive fast. It’s difficult. Honestly, Rea is one rider who’s coming every time in the safety commission and he’s the first to say, ‘This is very dangerous, you have to move the starting point’ and then he does this. I was lucky that I’m okay. He came to the box to say sorry. I said to him, ‘Yeah, okay, but be careful because you have a lot of experience, you know this corner is very special and you have to be very careful’. He said to me, ‘Oh, stop, I didn’t come here for a lesson, I came here to say sorry; do you accept or not?’. I accept because, for sure, he didn’t intentionally crash. I think the podium was possible. In the Superpole Race, it wasn’t so bad, especially because I made a mistake on Lap 2; I ran wide and lost some time. I think it was realistic to fight for a podium, but this is racing and anything can happen. We made a small change for Race 2, and I was quite confident it was going to help me a little bit. If I compare myself with two years ago, I’m faster, but the Championship is a bit different. There are more riders fighting at the front and the lap times are faster.”
Jonathan Rea (Pata Maxus Yamaha): “Directly after the race, I went to see them all to say, ‘I’m sorry’”
Rea instigated a Turn 1 incident and gave his side of the crash. He said: “From my seat, I got into T1 hot on the inside, and used a bit of inside kerb. I felt I had track position but unfortunately Alvaro was committed to the corner as well. There was impact and I’m really sorry for him as it ended his race, and also the race of Xavi Vierge and compromised Alex Lowes as well. Directly after the race, I went to see them all to say, ‘I’m sorry’. From my point of view, I’m out there racing. I got great starts in all races, using the same kind of strategy down the inside, and this time both Alvaro and I committed to the same bit of tarmac. For me, it’s a racing accident but it’s unfortunate. I’ve been on the receiving end of this before in my career. I had to put my big boy pants on and go and see the guys. I felt this weekend’s been a good step forward for me with the feeling of the bike. I was a little bit more competitive, not where I want to be, but I got 54 race laps this weekend and some good data to give the engineers. We have a two-day test at Misano where we ca explore some different ideas that we have that you sometimes don’t want to test during a race weekend.”
Sam Lowes (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team): “Now, every time I finish, I’m happy but I know I can do a little bit more. I think there’s more to come”
Another excellent weekend for Lowes, who said: “I’m quite happy and it’s given me some confidence. It was a bit harder this weekend. I enjoy this track, it’s difficult. It really highlights the WorldSBK style. It’s a bit smaller and there are many acceleration zones where you go from first to fifth gear with a bit of angle. I’m still missing a bit here. I thought we could fight Danilo in Race 2. It was close but he’s had a bit more speed than me at the end. It’s my best-scoring event of the season. That means things are going in a positive way. I feel like I’ve improved a lot but if I think back to Moto2™ when I was doing well there, how I felt with the bike and I could really take the maximum from it. Now, every time I finish, I’m happy but I know I can do a little bit more. I think there’s more to come. I need to be on the podium a bit more. Last year here was terrible for me. I had the injury so one year makes a big difference.”
Remy Gardner (GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team): “I’m speaking with Yamaha and keeping my options open. There’s nothing planned, I need to see the options first”
An up and down weekend for Gardner, who ended it in P5 in Race 2: “I had a big crash on Friday. I was lucky I could race this weekend, to be honest; my ankle had a previous injury, so it blew up and was pretty sore all weekend. It’s not been fun to ride. I hurt my shoulder at Portimao and hurt it again. I think it was okay. It’s not one of our stronger tracks, but better than Cremona I feel. At Cremona, we struggled a lot. I think, if I wasn’t so banged up after Friday, I could’ve maybe not been on the podium but at least try to hunt down Danilo and Sam and be in that group. At the moment, no update on my future. I’m speaking with Yamaha and keeping my options open. There’s nothing planned, I need to see the options first. Once I have everything on the table, then I’ll make a decision.”
A KTM RC16 in the garage at Circuit of The Americas for the Red Bull Grand Prix of The Americas in 2025. Photo by Michael Gougis.
KTM has the money it needs to emerge from bankruptcy protection, the company said in a statement released just before the court-imposed deadline to raise the money needed to continue operations.
“As announced, the creditors of KTM AG, KTM Components GmbH and KTM Forschungs & Entwicklungs GmbH approved a restructuring plan quota of 30% on February 25, 2025, payable by May 23, 2025. The total amount required to finance the quota under the three restructuring plans amounts to approx. EUR 600 million,” PIERER Mobility AG said in a statement posted in its corporate newsroom.
“PIERER Mobility AG and KTM AG have received financing commitments, subject to the execution of the requisite agreements, which will ensure that the quota payments to fulfill the restructuring plans of KTM AG, KTM Components GmbH and KTM Forschungs- & Entwicklungs GmbH can be fulfilled on time by May 23, 2025.”
KTM ceased production and asked for court-supervised self-restructuring proceedings after debts ran to nearly two billion Euros and unsold motorcycle inventories were reported in the range of 130,000 units. Since then, an Austrian court has approved a restructuring plan in which creditors would receive 30 percent of the money due to them.
Bajaj, the Indian conglomerate that is already a partner of KTM, last week announced that it had secured a loan for just over 600 million Euros, leading to speculation that the company would take a greater stake in KTM operations. However, the company did not specifically state that in its announcement.
KTM has said it plans to continue MotoGP World Championship activities.
Buell Motorcycle Company is returning to the U.K. Market with a partner, forming the Buell MotorBike UK division. Buell photo
Buell Re-Enters UK Market, Expanding Global Distribution
Grand Rapids, Michigan: Buell Motorcycle Co. is expanding its global footprint with a highly anticipated return to the United Kingdom through a strategic partnership with Rainbow Moto & Re-Charge Café who will be taking on the Buell MotorBike UK division.
A shipment of Hammerhead 1190 and 1190SX models are expected to arrive in Southampton by the end of May. This marks Buell’s re-entry into the UK market, and both parties couldn’t be more excited.
“We’re excited to bring Buell Motorcycles back to the UK market. This expansion represents a significant milestone in our global strategy, and I appreciate the dedication of our team and Buell MotorBike UK in making this possible,” said Bill Melvin, CEO of Buell Motorcycle Co.
“We at Rainbow Moto & Re-Charge Café, Ashburton, Devon. TQ13 7FF. are overjoyed to finally announce our partnership with Buell Motorcycles, with the first shipment of bikes arriving before the end of May”, said Ian Johnson and Christine Fairhurst, Owners of Rainbow Moto & Re-Charge Café.
This partnership marks the return of Buell to the UK and Europe after being absent for nearly 15 years. Rainbow Moto and Re-Charge Café will be hosting a launch weekend to mark this collaboration (Freedom United) on the 7th & 8 th June 2025, where everyone can finally join in the return of this marque”, said Ian and Christine.
For years, Buell motorcycles have stood out in the American motorcycling landscape by embodying passion, adrenaline, and pure power in every ride. The brand’s commitment to
innovative design and performance has cultivated a dedicated following that extends well
beyond American borders. This partnership with Buell Motorbike UK will reinvigorate that
passion in the UK market, bringing Buell’s distinctive riding experience back to motorcycle
enthusiasts.
Following the initial shipment, Buell plans to increase inventory in subsequent deliveries to
meet anticipated demand. The company is also exploring opportunities to showcase its
upcoming Super Cruiser and SuperTouring models in the UK market in the near future.
Joan Erdesky, Wife Of Motorcycle Excitement and MARRC Founder Roger Lyle
Joan M. Erdesky, 67, of Needmore, PA, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on May 14th, 2025, at her home, after a lengthy battle with breast cancer. She was born on February 10, 1958, in Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA. She was the sixth of seven children born to Lt. Col. Joseph L. Erdesky and Virginia M. Erdesky. Joan is survived by her husband Roger Lyle and identical twin daughters, Charlotte Enfield and Juliette (Tom) Buell and two well-loved cats, Sunny Boy and Cherie.
Joan earned her B.A. in French Language and Literature from the University of Maryland in 1979. She had an impressive career in the Metro DC Area beginning with AAA World Wide Travel and The National Gallery of Art. She then moved into graphic design and taught herself typesetting. This led her to Weadon Printing, where she learned the printing business. Thereafter she was employed by the advertising firms Earle Palmer Brown, RTC Direct, and Loughlin Creative. Joan was employed seasonally by the Smithsonian Institution Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage for 10 years as editor, proofreader, and/or graphic design artist. She also taught graphic design courses at Hagerstown Community College in Hagerstown, MD. Joan worked at the Herald-Mail newspaper in Hagerstown and did page layout and worked for the new Herald-Mail TV station.
Joan’s graphic design expertise further enhanced her husband’s enterprise, Motorcycle Xcitement. With Roger, she developed the website, created forms, graphics, and helped build and maintain the business in all aspects.
Joan M. Erdesky. R.I.P. Photo courtesy Roger Lyle.
She was a volunteer beginning in her youth as a Candy Striper, and later with The Valley Co-op in Hagerstown, MD, The Washington County Commission for Women, Habitat for Humanity, and Hospice. She volunteered for the Star Community Center at the Historic Star Theatre WV in Berkeley Springs WV and served as Treasurer. Joan instilled to her daughters her love of nature, the arts, the importance of kindness and love, and the richness and excitement of life. During Joan’s life, she traveled all over the US, and to Europe and Africa.
She is survived by three sisters, Judith Erdesky of Punxsutawney, PA, Jeanne (Grady) Thompson of Conway, SC, Joyce Denny of Virginia Beach, VA, and brother-in-law Paul Lissy of Lewes, DE.
Joan is also survived by three nephews, Gregory (Karen) Lissy, Adam (Marya) Erdesky, and Bret Denny and two nieces, Diana (Frank) Macchio, and Lindsey (Chris Cunningham) Denny.
She was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers Joseph Erdesky and James Erdesky, and a sister Janice Lissy.
In lieu of flowers, Joan has requested that memorial contributions be made to her favorite charity, DOCTORS WITHOUT BORDERS at www.doctorswithoutborders.org. A celebration of Joan’s life will be held in the near future.
The family has entrusted Joan’s care to Kelso-Cornelius Funeral Home in McConnellsburg, PA. Online condolences may be expressed at www.kelso-corneliusfuneralhome.com.
A celebration of Joan’s life will be held on July 12 at their Blue Heaven Farm. The Shango Mountain Taiko Drummers will be performing in her honor.
Enea Bastianini (23) at Circuit of The Americas in 2025. Photo by Michael Gougis.
This is the 15th time Silverstone has hosted a Grand Prix since MotoGP returned to the circuit in 2010 after a 23-year gap. The first Grand Prix held at Silverstone was in 1977, and was also the first motorcycle Grand Prix to be held on the British mainland. Prior to 1977, the British round of the World Championship had been held on the Isle of Man since 1949. The move was made for reasons of rider safety. The British GP was then held for 10 consecutive years at Silverstone before it moved to Donington Park in 1987. So this is the 25th GP held at Silverstone.
The winners of that first Grand Prix at Silverstone in 1977 were: 500cc – Pat Hennen (Suzuki), 350cc & 250cc – Kork Ballington (Yamaha), 125cc – Pierluigi Conforti (Morbidelli).
The original circuit layout used for the Grand Prix from 1977 to 1986 was 4.71km long. In 1983, Kenny Roberts set the fastest race lap at the circuit, riding a Yamaha at an average speed of 192.2km/h.
When the British GP returned to Silverstone in 2010, it was with a revised circuit layout measuring 5.9 km. Four Brits have won home races at Silverstone: Jake Dixon (Moto2 – 2024), Danny Kent (Moto3 – 2015), Scott Redding (Moto2 – 2013) and Ian McConnachie (80cc – 1986).
MOTOGP WINNERS AT SILVERSTONE ON THE GRID
Marc Marquez (2014) – Maverick Viñales (2016) – Fabio Quartararo (2021) – Alex Rins (2019) – Francesco Bagnaia (2022) –Aleix Espargaro (2023) – Enea Bastianini (2024)
Yamaha’s last MotoGP win at Silverstone was with Quartararo (2021). Yamaha is the most successful manufacturer here with eight wins, including five in the modern era: three with Jorge Lorenzo (2010, 2012 and 2013), one with Valentino Rossi (2015) and one Fabio Quartararo (2021).
Honda’s last MotoGP win here was with Marc Marquez in 2014 from pole. Honda have five wins in the class at Silverstone, including two since 2010 with Casey Stoner (2011) adding to Marquez’ win in 2014.
Ducati have taken three MotoGP wins at Silverstone: in 2017 with Andrea Dovizioso, in 2022 with Francesco Bagnaia and in 2024 with Enea Bastianini. Alex Marquez and Bastianini has won both the Sprints held at Silverstone, in 2023 and in 2024, respectively.
Aprilia have one win at Silverstone, taken in 2023 with Aleix Espargaro. It was their second MotoGP win after Argentina 2022. Aprilia have two other podiums here: P2 in 2022 with Maverick Viñales and P3 in 2021 with Espargaro, which was Aprilia’s first MotoGP™ podium since Jeremy McWilliams at the 2000 British GP at Donington.
KTM’s best MotoGP™ result at Silverstone is Brad Binder’s P3 in 2023.
EXTRA FACTS AND STATS
10 current riders have MotoGP podiums here: Viñales (4), Bagnaia (3), M. Marquez (3), Rins (2), wildcard A. Espargaro (2), Quartararo (1), Miller (1), Bastianini (1), Binder (1), Martin (1).
4 have taken pole: M. Marquez (5), Zarco (1), Bezzecchi (1) and wildcard A. Espargaro (1).
Only one rider has scored points in all six of the MotoGP™ races so far this season: Luca Marini. Two have scored points in all six Tissot Sprints: Marc Marquez, Alex Marquez.
WHAT HAPPENS IF…
2021 Honda riders will be aiming to give the Japanese manufacturer their first wins in back-to-back MotoGP races since 2021 when Marc Marquez won the Americas and the Emilia-Romagna GP.
87 If a Ducati qualifies in the top three, it will be the 87th consecutive GP that a Ducati rider starts on the front row, a run that stretches back to Valencia 2020.
73 Ducati are on a streak of 72 podiums in a row. Another will extend their own record to 73. The last manufacturer with more than 73 podiums in a row is Honda with 83 from the FIM GP 1993 to the Imola GP 1999.
20 Rookie Fermin Aldeguer will be 20 years and 50 days old on Sunday and has his last chance to become the youngest MotoGP winner ahead of Marc Marquez (20 years and 63 days old in Austin, 2013).
11 There have been 10 different winners in the last 10 MotoGP™ races at Silverstone: Lorenzo (2013), Marc Marquez (2014), Rossi (2015), Viñales (2016), Dovizioso (2017), Rins (2019), Quartararo (2021), Bagnaia (2022), A. Espargaro (2023) and Bastianini (2024). Another winner would become the 11th winner in the last 11 races here.
7 If a rider other than Lorenzo (2018), M. Marquez (2019), P. Espargaro (2021), Zarco (2022), Bezzecchi (2023) or A. Espargaro (2024) takes pole, they’ll be the seventh different polesitter in the last seven Grands Prix here.
6 There are six riders on the grid who could take their maiden MotoGP win this weekend: Raul Fernandez, Luca Marini, Pedro Acosta and rookies Ai Ogura, Somkiat Chantra and Fermin Aldeguer.
1 KTM riders could give their factory a maiden premier class win at Silverstone.
Andria Yu Named Vice President of Communications for the Motorcycle Industry Council and related Powersports Associations
Andria Yu Named Vice President of Communications for the Motorcycle Industry Council and Powersports Associations
Andria Yu is the new Vice President of Communications for the Motorcycle Industry Council, Motorcycle Safety Foundation, Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle Association, and Specialty Vehicle Institute of America. Yu served as Director of Media Relations since joining the powersports associations in 2016, and before that had been the front-page editor at USA Today and chief night editor at The Baltimore Sun.
Bringing more than 17 years of journalism experience to the associations, she expanded national media outreach for powersports in her media relations role, helped shape public-facing communications campaigns, and elevated the visibility of motorcycling, ATV riding, and side-by-side driving – and safety awareness – across a wide range of audiences.
Yu has played a key role in cultivating relationships with journalists, influencers, and industry stakeholders across the country. She’s also a longtime on- and off-road motorcyclist and a certified MSF RiderCoach and DirtBike School Coach, and has led training events and media rides that have helped introduce many beginners to the world of two-wheeling. She is also an ATV Safety Institute Instructor and ROHVA DriverCoach.
“Andria brings clarity, strategy, and a rider-first perspective to everything she does,” said Christy LaCurelle, President and CEO of the MIC, MSF, ROHVA, and SVIA. “She’s played a key role in shaping how we communicate with our industry, our members, and the public. Her insight and leadership are invaluable as we continue to grow and evolve. For nearly a decade, she’s helped tell the story of motorcycling to millions, worked with journalists and influencers across the country, and led media and influencer rides that assisted people in riding the right way. Her impact on the industry and our associations has been tremendous.”
Yu is also an experienced spokesperson – who regularly appears on live TV – and video producer, contributing to major campaigns, press events, and educational programs across the associations. In late 2024, she assumed a leadership role following the departure of the previous Communications VP, serving as the primary point of contact for the department. Her guidance ensured communications continuity across the associations during a pivotal transition.
“Strong and consistent communications, across our industry and especially for potential new riders, matter a great deal during this time of economic and marketplace change,” Yu said. “Our current and future association members need to know what’s happening in our industry, how the associations can benefit their companies, and how we can all pull in the same direction and make a difference through collective efforts. And we need to keep reaching out, through all forms of today’s mass media, with messages about the fun and joy that powersports brings to our lives and how to go about it safely. I look forward to working with all our associations’ departments – Membership, Government Relations, Market Expansion, Rider Education, Training Operations, Research, Events, and more, to help keep our members apprised of the work that we do so we can grow engagement and opportunities for all.”
About the MIC
The Motorcycle Industry Council, under its marquee market expansion brand, Ride With Us, is working to introduce everyone to the incomparable thrill of riding a motorcycle. The MIC is a not-for-profit trade association representing motorcycle manufacturers, distributors, aftermarket companies, dealers, retailers, and a variety of related organizations providing vital support to the powersports industry. The MIC advocates for fair policy and regulatory environments, works to deliver valuable data to the industry, and strives to bring the joy of riding to everyone, everywhere.
Established in 1914, the MIC is headquartered in Irvine, Calif., with a government relations office in metropolitan Washington, D.C. Keep up with the industry association on Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube, online at MIC.org, and through the weekly MIC RideReport.
About the MSF
The Motorcycle Safety Foundation promotes safety through rider training and education, operator licensing tests, and public information programs. MSF works with the federal government, state agencies, the military, and others to offer training for all skill levels so riders can enjoy a lifetime of safe, responsible motorcycling. Standards established by MSF have been recognized worldwide since 1973. The MSF is a not-for-profit organization endorsed by American Honda Motor Co., Inc.; BMW Motorrad USA; Bombardier Recreational Products Inc.; Harley-Davidson Motor Company, Inc.; Indian Motorcycle; Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A.; KTM North America, Inc.; Suzuki Motor USA, LLC; Triumph Motorcycles America; and Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. For safety information or to enroll in an MSF Basic RiderCourse near you, or to learn more about the many other MSF course offerings, visit MSF-USA.org or call (800) 446-9227. To keep up with the latest updates, follow the MSF on Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook.
About ROHVA
The Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle Association is the not-for-profit national industry association promoting safe and responsible use of ROVs (also called side-by-sides or UTVs). Accredited by the American National Standards Institute, ROHVA develops standards for the equipment, configuration, and performance requirements of ROVs.
Based in Irvine, Calif., ROHVA is sponsored by American Honda Motor Co., Inc.; Bombardier Recreational Products Inc.; Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A.; Polaris Inc.; Textron Specialized Vehicles; and Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. For safety information or to enroll in the ROV Basic DriverCourse nearest you, visit ROHVA.org or call (866) 267-2751.
About SVIA
The Specialty Vehicle Institute of America is the not-for-profit national industry association promoting safe and responsible use of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) through rider training, public awareness campaigns, and state legislation. The SVIA also works to preserve access to off-road riding areas and expand riding opportunities. Accredited by the American National Standards Institute, the SVIA develops standards for equipment, configuration, and performance requirements of ATVs. Based in Irvine, Calif., the SVIA is sponsored by American Honda Motor Co., Inc.; Bombardier Recreational Products Inc.; CFMOTO Powersports, Inc.; Champion Motorsports Group, LLC; Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A.; Polaris Inc.; Suzuki Motor USA, LLC; Textron Specialized Vehicles; and Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. Visit SVIA.org. For safety information or to enroll in the ATV RiderCourse nearest you, visit ATVSafety.org or call (800) 887-2887.
Chris Labuguen (41) had fun at ASRA's recent huge event at PittRace, and ASRA says the upcoming Memorial Day at Summit Point will be even bigger and better! Photo by Noiseless Productions/Vae Vang/ASRA.
ASRA 2025 Memorial Day At Summit Point Will Be A Racing Weekend to Remember!
Don’t Miss Memorial Day Weekend at Summit Point
ASRA Race Practice on Friday, May 23rd
ASRA Sprint Races and MiniGP Races on Saturday & Sunday, May 24th-25th
EvolveGT Track Day on Monday, May 26th
David Graham Memorial Lap on Saturday, Remembering The Legendary Announcer Known As “The Mouth Of The South.” He is silent but will never be forgotten…
Massive BBQ Cookout Saturday Evening, No Extra Charge.
Live Music Saturday Evening, Featuring Joe Swanson And The Epics (Doing Classic Rock Covers).
DON’T MISS IT!
Matthew Chapin (95) won five races on his Suzuki GSX-8R at ASRA’s big event at PittRace and will be racing with ASRA at Summit Point on the Memorial Day Weekend. Photo by Noiseless Productions/Vae Vang/ASRA.
Start of one of three British Superbike races on the weekend at Donington, Bradley Ray (28) leading Rory Skinner (11) and Glenn Irwin (2). BSB photo.
Ray withstands the pressure to take terrific treble at Donington Park
Bradley Ray continued his quest for a second Bennetts British Superbike Championship crown with an impressive performance at Donington Park this weekend as he withstood the pressure from his title rivals to claim a hat trick of victories for Raceways Yamaha.
Bradley Ray was the Milwaukee King of Donington, winning all three Superbike races. Here, he is joined on the podium by second-place Glenn Irwin at left and third-place Rory Skinner at right, after the finish of Race Three. BSB Photo.
Ray headed into today’s raceday (Sunday) off the back of victory in yesterday’s opening race and in the second contest of the weekend he added to his winning tally with an impressive performance that kept him ahead of reigning champion Kyle Ryde and Hager PBM Ducati’s Glenn Irwin.
Ray had hit the front of the pack on the opening lap ahead of Ryde and Irwin, with the Hager PBM Ducati rider moving into second on lap two. The Raceways Yamaha rider held the lead until lap four when Irwin moved ahead on the brakes at the Fogarty Esses, but he was instantly on the attack and regained the position at the Melbourne Hairpin just a corner later.
Ray was then defending hard from Irwin, who attempted another move at the Fogarty Esses, but had to stand up the Hager PBM Ducati and run on down the slip road to re-join in fourth place.
Ray then held the advantage over Ryde until the chequered flag, with Rory Skinner holding third place until the final lap when Glenn Irwin made a move to regain the position and make a podium return.
In race three, Ray kept his cool despite the mounting pressure from Glenn Irwin in the closing stages to make it a treble for the Raceways Yamaha team.
Ray had launched into the lead again on the opening lap ahead of Skinner and Glenn Irwin, with Ryde and Leon Haslam completing the top five, but Ryde had a moment on the exit of the Fogarty Esses, which lost him ground and he then dropped behind Haslam and McPhee.
At the front of the pack, Ray was trying to make a break, but Irwin had moved into second place with a dive down the inside at Redgate on lap ten. His Raceways Yamaha rival had bridged a gap of over two seconds by lap 12, but as the laps counted down, Irwin was getting closer as he continued to hunt his rival.
By lap 16, it had dropped to less than a second and as they crossed the line to start the next lap, it had halved again, and then Ray was in range for Irwin to try to make his move. With three laps remaining, it looked like the Hager PBM Ducati rider was going to attack.
Irwin was unsettled on the brakes into the Fogarty Esses, losing ground on Ray again and despite pushing all the way to the finish, he was unable to deny Ray the treble.
Skinner celebrated his first podium with Cheshire Mouldings Ducati since their change of manufacturer this year, holding off Haslam to become the sixth different podium finisher so far this season.
The triple win puts Ray at the top of the standings by 12 points ahead of the next round of the season at Snetterton next month.
Bradley Ray (28) battled Glenn Irwin (2) to win Race Three at Donington Park by 0.396-second. BSB photo.Bradley Ray swept the British Superbike races at Donington Park. BSB photo.
Raceways Yamaha’s Bradley Ray Talks About His Weekend:
“I didn’t really expect to win all three races coming into the weekend – I knew we’d be strong but I didn’t think we’d be in a position to take the triple given how strong Glenn and Kyle were at the test.
“We worked well as a team all weekend, worked hard on used tyres to find our rhythm for the end of the race. Glenn kept me honest in the last race and that one was probably my best win of my BSB career, having to dig deep after Glenn came back to me towards the end!
“I had to find something in myself and the bike to keep him behind, and we did, so I’m happy for myself, Raceways Motorcycles, Yamaha and all my team to back up Saturday’s win with the Sunday double.”
Bennetts British Superbike Championship, Donington Park, Race 2 result:
1. Bradley Ray (Raceways Yamaha)
2. Kyle Ryde (OMG Nitrous Competitions Racing Yamaha) +1.110s
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