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MotoE: Revised 2020 Schedule Announced

2020 FIM Enel MotoE™ World Cup Calendar

June 11th 2020

Date, Grand Prix, Circuit

July 19, Spain, Circuito de Jerez – Angel Nieto, One race

July 26, Andalucia, Circuito de Jerez – Angel Nieto, One race

September 13, San Marino e Della Riviera di Rimini, Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli, One race

September 19, Emilia Romagna e Della Riviera di Rimini, Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli, One race

September 20, Emilia Romagna e Della Riviera di Rimini, Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli, One race

October 10, France, Le Mans, One race

October 11, France, Le Mans, One race

 

All dates, events and the eventual attendance of spectators are subject to the evolution of the pandemic and the approval of the corresponding governments and authorities.

New Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup Schedule Released

Home race start for the 2020 Rookies Cup season

Finally the 2020 Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup season has wings and a 12 race season. With the ongoing support of Dorna as part of the Road to MotoGP structure, the fourteenth Cup season will begin with four races over back-to-back weekends at the Red Bull Ring following a three day preseason test at the same venue in the first week of August.

Alongside the other Grand Prix classes the double weekend theme continues with four races at Motorland Aragón in October and the remaining quartet in November at the Ricardo Tormo circuit in Valencia.

The twenty-six Rookies come from across the globe and are desperate to get on their KTM RC 250 Rs having shared the motorsport world’s frustration following the cancelation of the original test in Jerez in April and the delayed start to the season.

Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup Calendar 2020

August 2-4: Preseason Test in Spielberg, Austria

August 15-16: Race 1 & Race 2 in Spielberg, Austria

August 22-23: Race 3 & Race 4 in Spielberg, Austria

October 17-18: Race 5 & 6 in Aragón, Spain

October 24-25: Race 7 & 8 in Aragón, Spain

November 7-8: Race 9 & 10 in Valencia, Spain

November 14-15: Race 11 & 12 in Valencia, Spain

 

Provisional Entry List

5 Tatchakorn Buasri (Thailand)

6 Phillip Tonn (Germany)

7 Daniel Muñoz (Spain)

11 Alex Escrig (Spain)

13 Sho Nishimura (Japan)

19 Scott Odgen (Great Britian)

23 Alex Millan (Spain)

24 Iván Ortolá (Spain)

28 Matteo Bertelle (Italy)

29 Billy van Eerde (Australia)

33 Izan Guevara (Spain)

34 Mario Aji (Indonesia)

37 Pedro Acosta (Spain)

38 David Salvador (Spain)

39 Bartholomé Perrin (France)

48 Gabin Planques (France)

55 Noah Dettwiler (Switzerland)

58 Luca Lunetta (Italy)

64 David Muñoz (Spain)

80 David Alonso (Colombia)

84 Zonta van den Goorbergh (Netherlands)

88 Artem Maraev (Russia)

89 Marcos Uriarte (Spain)

95 Collin Veijer (Netherlands)

96 Daniel Holgado (Spain)

97 Rocco Landers (United States)

MotoGP: New 2020 Schedule Released, U.S. Round Still TBD

FIM Grand Prix World Championship

2020 Calendar, UPDATE 11 JUNE

March 8, Qatar*(Moto2 & Moto3 only), Losail International Circuit

July 19, Spain, Circuito de Jerez-Ángel Nieto

July 26, Andalucía, Circuito de Jerez-Ángel Nieto

August 9, Czech Republic, Automotodrom Brno

August 16, Austria, Red Bull Ring-Spielberg

August 23, Styria, Red Bull Ring-Spielberg

September 13, San Marino e Della Riviera di Rimini, Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli

September 20, Emilia Romagna e Della Riviera di Rimini, Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli

September 27, Catalunya, Barcelona – Catalunya

October 11, France, Le Mans

October 18, Aragón, MotorLand Aragón

October 25, Teruel, MotorLand Aragón

November 8, Europe, Comunitat Valenciana-Ricardo Tormo

November 15, Comunitat Valenciana, Comunitat Valenciana-Ricardo Tormo

Americas**, Circuit of The Americas

Argentina**, Termas de Rio Hondo

Thailand**, Chang International Circuit

Malaysia**, Sepang International Circuit

* Evening Race

** Events and dates to be confirmed before the 31st of July.

The 2020 season will not finish later than the 13th of December and will have a maximum of 17 events (including the Qatar Grand Prix).

All dates, events and the eventual attendance of spectators are subject to the evolution of the pandemic and the approval of the corresponding Governments and authorities.

American Brian Gillen Promoted To MV Agusta R&D Director

MV AGUSTA ANNOUNCES REORGANISATION OF ITS SAN MARINO CRC DESIGN CENTRE

Giorgio Mazzotti and Alessandro Volpini will be joining the company as Design Director and
Technical Manager, respectively. Brian Gillen promoted to R&D Director MV Agusta & CRC.

Varese, June 11, 2020 – MV Agusta is announcing the reorganisation of its CRC – Design Centre, based in San Marino and is appointing Giorgio Mazzotti as its new Design Director and Alessandro Volpini as new Technical Manager. The appointments are effective as of June 15, 2020.

Giorgio Mazzotti, 56, is an industrial designer with over 29 years experience on a variety of
production motorcycles, automobiles and commercial vehicles. He is succeeding Adrian Morton as Design Director, who will be leaving the company this month.

Alessandro Volpini, 52, is a mechanical engineer with extensive experience in the design and industrialisation of vehicles for the motorcycle industry. His background in the field includes a comprehensive career in design, prototyping, testing and industrialisation.

Mazzotti and Volpini will report to Brian Gillen, currently Technical Director, now promoted to R&D Director, MV Agusta and CRC.

“As a brand, MV Agusta has a very strong focus on both innovation and technology” says Timur Sardarov, CEO of MV Agusta Motor S.p.A., “in welcoming Giorgio and Alessandro into the MV Agusta family, I am confident that we now have a great team to address the style and technology challenges driving our product development into the future. I would like to congratulate Brian for his new position and thank Adrian Morton for his many contributions throughout his 20 years career in the company as well as the creation of legendary pieces of true motorcycle art. We hope that in the future we will be able to continue our collaboration on exciting new projects.”

MotoGP: Ezpeleta Says Flyaway Races Must Include Spectators

Dorna Sports CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta once again sat down with motogp.com recently, to debrief a few current events – this time largely centered on the 2020 MotoGP™ calendar.

Here is the transcription, you can watch the full video here.

What can you tell us about the calendar?

“It has been hard work from our side and from the side of the promoters, finally we obtained these possibilities. Once we had the protocol approved then we are able to propose this calendar. In principle we have some circuits where we will repeat races one week after another, because this is easy for movement and to maintain the protocol, although there are others where we will have just one race. We thought when we ran into the problem of the pandemic, we realised we can do 13 races and then if it’s possible to go outside Europe it will be interesting. The races outside Europe need to be confirmed before the end of July, then also our agreement with the manufacturers and with the teams is to finish the Championship no later than the 13th of December, that means we need to decide which of the races to do, if all of them are possible, and we will decide which races we will have outside Europe. This is something we will put in the calendar as a proposal and we will decide on it no later than the end of July.”

So we’re waiting to see how the pandemic evolves and for permissions from authorities for the final four races at the end of the year? 

“We need to wait because as we’ve commented before, to do the races outside Europe it’s necessary to do it with spectators. We are waiting to see the development of health measures in other countries, in the States, Argentina, Malaysia and Thailand, and then we will see what is possible to include in the calendar.”

Could the season, potentially, finish in Malaysia?

“We will see. It’s a possibility, but all the races outside of Europe are pending and we don’t know exactly. If there are no races outside Europe then the Championship will finish like every year in Valencia, if not it depends which races are able to do it but Malaysia is one possibility, yes.”

What more can you tell us about the protocol for going racing?

“The protocol is the hardest one we have. We’ve presented it to everyone. If the situation improves later there could be some changes, but always in agreement with the authorities, but today it’s the protocol we have presented to everyone – from the teams to the FIM, it’s the protocol we will use from the beginning of the Championship.”

And we also have the MotoE™ calendar now announced…

“Yes. There will be five rounds: two in Jerez, two in Misano and one round in France. The second Misano round and the Le Mans round will have two races.”

Do you have a message for the paddock?

“I wish you all the best possible season. The most important thing is for everyone to take care of their health, and as always, we wish everyone a happy season with no crashes!”

Collections: Suzuki Plaza Museum, P2, In The May Issue

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Featured In the May 2020 Issue of Roadracing World: 

     Suzuki Plaza, a three-story museum located across the street from Suzuki Motor Corporation headquarters in Hamamatsu, Japan, tells the story of the company’s history and transformation from what began as Suzuki Loom Works in 1909. By 1939 the company was making its first try at diversifying and had built prototype mini-cars powered by 750cc liquid-cooled four-cylinder engines making 13 horsepower. Bombed in World War II, Suzuki went back to concentrating on loom building in 1945.

     But in 1952, Suzuki was back in the motor vehicle business, building the Power Free bicycle with a clip-on 36cc two-stroke engine. By 1953, Suzuki had discovered the power of using racing to promote its products, winning the first Mt. Fuji Hill Climb with the new 58cc two-stroke Diamond Free DF, and the rest is history…

—Collections: Suzuki Plaza Museum, Part 2, By John Ulrich

 

Part One (April 2020 Issue) of Editor John Ulrich’s most recent visit to the museum covered motorcycles he had ridden or had a personal connection to. Part Two is a pictorial tour of the company’s most significant earlier products. Details in the May issue of Roadracing World! Available at Cycle Gear and other motorcycle retailers.

Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology is THE definitive source for motorcycle racing, riding, and tech information.

PREVIEW the May 2020 Issue of Roadracing World!

Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology magazine is available in print and digital formats. SUBSCRIBE NOW . Or call (909) 654-4779, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time, Monday through Friday.

Visit www.roadracingworld.com daily for breaking news and events.

Like us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/roadracingworld

Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com @roadracingworld

Follow us on Instagram https://instagram.com @roadracing_world

Pirelli Trackside Vendors Offer “Try Before You Buy” Program

Riders Can Experience the High-Performance Pirelli Line First-Hand Alongside Authorized Trackside Vendors

ROME, Ga. (June 10, 2020) – Pirelli Tire North America, in conjunction with the brand’s official trackside vendors, is pleased to introduce the all-new “Try Before You Buy” program that is dedicated to providing local racers and track day enthusiasts with firsthand experience of a select group of the brand’s high-performance range of track tires. The program will offer consumers and racing teams the opportunity to try out the latest offerings from Pirelli with the option of purchasing the set at an exclusive discounted rate. Authorized Pirelli trackside vendors will install the tires and work with riders throughout the test period.

Pirelli’s “Try Before You Buy” program gives consumers the opportunity to try their latest offerings with the option of purchasing at a discounted rate.

“This new program is something that Pirelli and our trackside vendors are very excited about introducing for 2020,” said Oscar Solis, motorcycle road racing manager, Pirelli. “Our lineup provides a great experience across the board, whether it be our racing compounds, wet and rain options, or track day specific compounds, we have something that meets the needs of everyday sportbike enthusiasts. I’m extremely confident that our customers will be impressed with the tires at the end of the day and be happy to be able to purchase them at a discount.”

The program has been developed to suit a wide variety of track conditions and riders of all skill levels. National and local racers will have access to Pirelli’s DIABLO™ Superbike and DIABLO™ Supercorsa SC racing compounds, including the new 125/70-17 and 200/65-17 sizes that have been developed as a result of Pirelli’s involvement in the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship. DIABLO™ Wet and DIABLO™ Rain tires may also be available upon request, depending on the weather.

In addition to race compounds, riders will have access to Pirelli’s recently introduced DIABLO™ Supercorsa TD.

In addition to race compounds, Pirelli trackside vendors will have the DIABLO™ Superbike SC3 and DIABLO™ Supercorsa TD on hand for track day enthusiasts. The Supercorsa TD, which does not require the use of tire warmers, is the latest addition to the DIABLO™ Supercorsa lineup and is DOT approved, delivering the perfect combination of racetrack performance and durability while cruising the canyons.

Eligible Tires Include:

DIABLO™ Superbike – SC1, SC2, and SC3

DIABLO™ Supercorsa SC – SC1, and TD

DIABLO™ Rain (upon vendor approval)

DIABLO™ Wet (upon vendor approval)

 

To locate your local Pirelli trackside vendor and learn more about the exclusive “Try Before You Buy” program, visit PirelliRacer.com.

For more information about the complete line of Pirelli motorcycle tires, please visit us.Pirelli.com

The Vincent Black Shadow: Tuning For Speed, P2, In The May Issue

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Featured In the May 2020 Issue of Roadracing World: 

     “Our beloved, and soon to be obsolete, four-stroke gasoline engines require a spark delivered at just the right time to ignite the fuel/air mixture which increases pressure in the combustion chamber as the chemical energy in the fuel is converted to heat and expanding gases, forcing the piston back down and turning the crankshaft, etc.

      “For those of you not steeped in the theory, an engine’s connecting rods are kinda like the long bits on a bicycle crank. The pedals where you clip your feet are the pistons. Your legs, in this metaphor, are the burning fuel …”

—The Vincent Black Shadow, Tuning For Speed, Part 2, by Sam Q. Fleming

Sam Fleming’s musings on the proper mindset with which to approach the prospect of getting the timing right on his beloved Vincent Black Shadow and how to reconcile the original Lucas magneto’s existence with the simultaneous presence of a benevolent creator entity are philosophy in (potential) motion. Read his ruminations in the May issue of Roadracing World! Available at Cycle Gear and other motorcycle retailers.

Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology is THE definitive source for motorcycle racing, riding, and tech information.

PREVIEW the May 2020 Issue of Roadracing World!

Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology magazine is available in print and digital formats. SUBSCRIBE NOW . Or call (909) 654-4779, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time, Monday through Friday.

Visit www.roadracingworld.com daily for breaking news and events.

Like us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/roadracingworld

Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com @roadracingworld

Follow us on Instagram https://instagram.com @roadracing_world

MotoAmerica: Öhlins Becomes Sponsorship Partner

Öhlins Joins MotoAmerica As Sponsorship Partner For 2020

High-End Suspension Company To Showcase Its Wares

IRVINE, CA (June 10, 2020) – MotoAmerica has announced that Öhlins, the high-end suspension company, has signed on as a sponsorship partner for the 2020 MotoAmerica Series.

With 40 years of experience in the motorcycle and automotive industry, Öhlins is a leader in high-quality suspension products, service and race support – from the MotoAmerica Series to MotoGP and every series in between.

“I have a long history with Öhlins,” said MotoAmerica President Wayne Rainey. “I raced with them throughout my GP career and won all three of my World Championships using their suspension. I’ve always had a great relationship with them, and I’m really pleased to have Öhlins on board as a sponsorship partner of MotoAmerica. They make quality products and many of our teams use their suspension to win races and championships.”

“All of us at Öhlins USA are excited for the 2020 MotoAmerica race season and to finally be racing again,” said Mike Himmelsbach, Motorsports Market Manager at Öhlins, USA. “We have been in the paddock since the start with MotoAmerica and our gold products can be seen on all the factory bikes racing at the front. We are very pleased to increase our support to MotoAmerica, the racers and the fans in 2020.”

Öhlins USA’s highly skilled team of technicians will work from a fully functional mobile race shop, including four suspension workstations and a complement of specialty tools and parts to service our Öhlins products. They welcome all fans to stop by and see the Öhlins difference.

WERA Sportsman Series Racing At Nelson Ledges This Weekend

WERA RACING THIS WEEKEND AT NELSON LEDGES IN OHIO

WERA Motorcycle Roadracing will host a double-header Sportsman Series weekend on June 13/14 at Nelson Ledges Road Course in Warren, OH for the North Central Region riders.

You will notice more improvements at Nelson Ledges thanks to the hard work put in by Brian Ross Racing and his Staff!  Racing starts at 12:30 on Saturday and Noon on Sunday!  There will be a Rider’s School for anyone wanting to make that next step on Saturday.

Both C Superbike and A Superbike will be gridded by times in the second practice session and those two races will be two laps longer.  We want to thank SAS Racing for their support with the A Superbike, A Superstock and Formula 1 Expert Class trophies.

With the Pandemic still being a part of our lives we ask that you please practice social distancing, wear masks when not in your pit area and bring your own pens.  We will have extra masks as well as hand sanitizer available.  Be safe and let’s go racing!

WERA Motorcycle Roadracing was established in 1973 and is currently co-sanctioning event with AMA and partners with N2 on the National Endurance Series. Web site is wera.com and more information is available on the website as well as our Facebook Page business.facebook.com/wera.roadracing/.

MotoE: Revised 2020 Schedule Announced

Action from the 2019 MotoE World Cup finale at Valencia. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Action from the 2019 MotoE World Cup finale at Valencia. Photo courtesy Dorna.

2020 FIM Enel MotoE™ World Cup Calendar

June 11th 2020

Date, Grand Prix, Circuit

July 19, Spain, Circuito de Jerez – Angel Nieto, One race

July 26, Andalucia, Circuito de Jerez – Angel Nieto, One race

September 13, San Marino e Della Riviera di Rimini, Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli, One race

September 19, Emilia Romagna e Della Riviera di Rimini, Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli, One race

September 20, Emilia Romagna e Della Riviera di Rimini, Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli, One race

October 10, France, Le Mans, One race

October 11, France, Le Mans, One race

 

All dates, events and the eventual attendance of spectators are subject to the evolution of the pandemic and the approval of the corresponding governments and authorities.

New Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup Schedule Released

Action from the 2019 Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup. Photo courtesy Red Bull.
Action from the 2019 Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup. Photo courtesy Red Bull.

Home race start for the 2020 Rookies Cup season

Finally the 2020 Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup season has wings and a 12 race season. With the ongoing support of Dorna as part of the Road to MotoGP structure, the fourteenth Cup season will begin with four races over back-to-back weekends at the Red Bull Ring following a three day preseason test at the same venue in the first week of August.

Alongside the other Grand Prix classes the double weekend theme continues with four races at Motorland Aragón in October and the remaining quartet in November at the Ricardo Tormo circuit in Valencia.

The twenty-six Rookies come from across the globe and are desperate to get on their KTM RC 250 Rs having shared the motorsport world’s frustration following the cancelation of the original test in Jerez in April and the delayed start to the season.

Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup Calendar 2020

August 2-4: Preseason Test in Spielberg, Austria

August 15-16: Race 1 & Race 2 in Spielberg, Austria

August 22-23: Race 3 & Race 4 in Spielberg, Austria

October 17-18: Race 5 & 6 in Aragón, Spain

October 24-25: Race 7 & 8 in Aragón, Spain

November 7-8: Race 9 & 10 in Valencia, Spain

November 14-15: Race 11 & 12 in Valencia, Spain

 

Provisional Entry List

5 Tatchakorn Buasri (Thailand)

6 Phillip Tonn (Germany)

7 Daniel Muñoz (Spain)

11 Alex Escrig (Spain)

13 Sho Nishimura (Japan)

19 Scott Odgen (Great Britian)

23 Alex Millan (Spain)

24 Iván Ortolá (Spain)

28 Matteo Bertelle (Italy)

29 Billy van Eerde (Australia)

33 Izan Guevara (Spain)

34 Mario Aji (Indonesia)

37 Pedro Acosta (Spain)

38 David Salvador (Spain)

39 Bartholomé Perrin (France)

48 Gabin Planques (France)

55 Noah Dettwiler (Switzerland)

58 Luca Lunetta (Italy)

64 David Muñoz (Spain)

80 David Alonso (Colombia)

84 Zonta van den Goorbergh (Netherlands)

88 Artem Maraev (Russia)

89 Marcos Uriarte (Spain)

95 Collin Veijer (Netherlands)

96 Daniel Holgado (Spain)

97 Rocco Landers (United States)

MotoGP: New 2020 Schedule Released, U.S. Round Still TBD

The start of the MotoGP race at Catalunya in 2019. Photo courtesy Dorna.
The start of the MotoGP race at Catalunya in 2019. Photo courtesy Dorna.

FIM Grand Prix World Championship

2020 Calendar, UPDATE 11 JUNE

March 8, Qatar*(Moto2 & Moto3 only), Losail International Circuit

July 19, Spain, Circuito de Jerez-Ángel Nieto

July 26, Andalucía, Circuito de Jerez-Ángel Nieto

August 9, Czech Republic, Automotodrom Brno

August 16, Austria, Red Bull Ring-Spielberg

August 23, Styria, Red Bull Ring-Spielberg

September 13, San Marino e Della Riviera di Rimini, Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli

September 20, Emilia Romagna e Della Riviera di Rimini, Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli

September 27, Catalunya, Barcelona – Catalunya

October 11, France, Le Mans

October 18, Aragón, MotorLand Aragón

October 25, Teruel, MotorLand Aragón

November 8, Europe, Comunitat Valenciana-Ricardo Tormo

November 15, Comunitat Valenciana, Comunitat Valenciana-Ricardo Tormo

Americas**, Circuit of The Americas

Argentina**, Termas de Rio Hondo

Thailand**, Chang International Circuit

Malaysia**, Sepang International Circuit

* Evening Race

** Events and dates to be confirmed before the 31st of July.

The 2020 season will not finish later than the 13th of December and will have a maximum of 17 events (including the Qatar Grand Prix).

All dates, events and the eventual attendance of spectators are subject to the evolution of the pandemic and the approval of the corresponding Governments and authorities.

American Brian Gillen Promoted To MV Agusta R&D Director

From left: Giorgio Mazzotti, Brian Gillen, and Alessandro Volpini. Photo courtesy MV Agusta.
From left: Giorgio Mazzotti, Brian Gillen, and Alessandro Volpini. Photo courtesy MV Agusta.

MV AGUSTA ANNOUNCES REORGANISATION OF ITS SAN MARINO CRC DESIGN CENTRE

Giorgio Mazzotti and Alessandro Volpini will be joining the company as Design Director and
Technical Manager, respectively. Brian Gillen promoted to R&D Director MV Agusta & CRC.

Varese, June 11, 2020 – MV Agusta is announcing the reorganisation of its CRC – Design Centre, based in San Marino and is appointing Giorgio Mazzotti as its new Design Director and Alessandro Volpini as new Technical Manager. The appointments are effective as of June 15, 2020.

Giorgio Mazzotti, 56, is an industrial designer with over 29 years experience on a variety of
production motorcycles, automobiles and commercial vehicles. He is succeeding Adrian Morton as Design Director, who will be leaving the company this month.

Alessandro Volpini, 52, is a mechanical engineer with extensive experience in the design and industrialisation of vehicles for the motorcycle industry. His background in the field includes a comprehensive career in design, prototyping, testing and industrialisation.

Mazzotti and Volpini will report to Brian Gillen, currently Technical Director, now promoted to R&D Director, MV Agusta and CRC.

“As a brand, MV Agusta has a very strong focus on both innovation and technology” says Timur Sardarov, CEO of MV Agusta Motor S.p.A., “in welcoming Giorgio and Alessandro into the MV Agusta family, I am confident that we now have a great team to address the style and technology challenges driving our product development into the future. I would like to congratulate Brian for his new position and thank Adrian Morton for his many contributions throughout his 20 years career in the company as well as the creation of legendary pieces of true motorcycle art. We hope that in the future we will be able to continue our collaboration on exciting new projects.”

MotoGP: Ezpeleta Says Flyaway Races Must Include Spectators

The start of the Malaysian Grand Prix at Sepang International Circuit. Photo courtesy Michelin.
The start of the Malaysian Grand Prix at Sepang International Circuit. Photo courtesy Michelin.

Dorna Sports CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta once again sat down with motogp.com recently, to debrief a few current events – this time largely centered on the 2020 MotoGP™ calendar.

Here is the transcription, you can watch the full video here.

What can you tell us about the calendar?

“It has been hard work from our side and from the side of the promoters, finally we obtained these possibilities. Once we had the protocol approved then we are able to propose this calendar. In principle we have some circuits where we will repeat races one week after another, because this is easy for movement and to maintain the protocol, although there are others where we will have just one race. We thought when we ran into the problem of the pandemic, we realised we can do 13 races and then if it’s possible to go outside Europe it will be interesting. The races outside Europe need to be confirmed before the end of July, then also our agreement with the manufacturers and with the teams is to finish the Championship no later than the 13th of December, that means we need to decide which of the races to do, if all of them are possible, and we will decide which races we will have outside Europe. This is something we will put in the calendar as a proposal and we will decide on it no later than the end of July.”

So we’re waiting to see how the pandemic evolves and for permissions from authorities for the final four races at the end of the year? 

“We need to wait because as we’ve commented before, to do the races outside Europe it’s necessary to do it with spectators. We are waiting to see the development of health measures in other countries, in the States, Argentina, Malaysia and Thailand, and then we will see what is possible to include in the calendar.”

Could the season, potentially, finish in Malaysia?

“We will see. It’s a possibility, but all the races outside of Europe are pending and we don’t know exactly. If there are no races outside Europe then the Championship will finish like every year in Valencia, if not it depends which races are able to do it but Malaysia is one possibility, yes.”

What more can you tell us about the protocol for going racing?

“The protocol is the hardest one we have. We’ve presented it to everyone. If the situation improves later there could be some changes, but always in agreement with the authorities, but today it’s the protocol we have presented to everyone – from the teams to the FIM, it’s the protocol we will use from the beginning of the Championship.”

And we also have the MotoE™ calendar now announced…

“Yes. There will be five rounds: two in Jerez, two in Misano and one round in France. The second Misano round and the Le Mans round will have two races.”

Do you have a message for the paddock?

“I wish you all the best possible season. The most important thing is for everyone to take care of their health, and as always, we wish everyone a happy season with no crashes!”

Collections: Suzuki Plaza Museum, P2, In The May Issue

With pedals and a 58cc two-stroke engine, the 1953 Suzuki Diamond Free DF was the rough equivalent of a modern-day electric-assist bicycle. The race winner was a hit, with sales rising from 4,000 to 6,000 units per month at 38,000 yen each (about $106 U.S. at the time, or about $1,020 in 2020). Photo by John Ulrich.

Featured In the May 2020 Issue of Roadracing World: 

     Suzuki Plaza, a three-story museum located across the street from Suzuki Motor Corporation headquarters in Hamamatsu, Japan, tells the story of the company’s history and transformation from what began as Suzuki Loom Works in 1909. By 1939 the company was making its first try at diversifying and had built prototype mini-cars powered by 750cc liquid-cooled four-cylinder engines making 13 horsepower. Bombed in World War II, Suzuki went back to concentrating on loom building in 1945.

     But in 1952, Suzuki was back in the motor vehicle business, building the Power Free bicycle with a clip-on 36cc two-stroke engine. By 1953, Suzuki had discovered the power of using racing to promote its products, winning the first Mt. Fuji Hill Climb with the new 58cc two-stroke Diamond Free DF, and the rest is history…

—Collections: Suzuki Plaza Museum, Part 2, By John Ulrich

 

Part One (April 2020 Issue) of Editor John Ulrich’s most recent visit to the museum covered motorcycles he had ridden or had a personal connection to. Part Two is a pictorial tour of the company’s most significant earlier products. Details in the May issue of Roadracing World! Available at Cycle Gear and other motorcycle retailers.

Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology is THE definitive source for motorcycle racing, riding, and tech information.

PREVIEW the May 2020 Issue of Roadracing World!

Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology magazine is available in print and digital formats. SUBSCRIBE NOW . Or call (909) 654-4779, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time, Monday through Friday.

Visit www.roadracingworld.com daily for breaking news and events.

Like us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/roadracingworld

Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com @roadracingworld

Follow us on Instagram https://instagram.com @roadracing_world

Pirelli Trackside Vendors Offer “Try Before You Buy” Program

Pirelli Diablo Superbike slicks. Photo courtesy Pirelli.
Pirelli Diablo Superbike slicks. Photo courtesy Pirelli.

Riders Can Experience the High-Performance Pirelli Line First-Hand Alongside Authorized Trackside Vendors

ROME, Ga. (June 10, 2020) – Pirelli Tire North America, in conjunction with the brand’s official trackside vendors, is pleased to introduce the all-new “Try Before You Buy” program that is dedicated to providing local racers and track day enthusiasts with firsthand experience of a select group of the brand’s high-performance range of track tires. The program will offer consumers and racing teams the opportunity to try out the latest offerings from Pirelli with the option of purchasing the set at an exclusive discounted rate. Authorized Pirelli trackside vendors will install the tires and work with riders throughout the test period.

Pirelli’s “Try Before You Buy” program gives consumers the opportunity to try their latest offerings with the option of purchasing at a discounted rate.

“This new program is something that Pirelli and our trackside vendors are very excited about introducing for 2020,” said Oscar Solis, motorcycle road racing manager, Pirelli. “Our lineup provides a great experience across the board, whether it be our racing compounds, wet and rain options, or track day specific compounds, we have something that meets the needs of everyday sportbike enthusiasts. I’m extremely confident that our customers will be impressed with the tires at the end of the day and be happy to be able to purchase them at a discount.”

The program has been developed to suit a wide variety of track conditions and riders of all skill levels. National and local racers will have access to Pirelli’s DIABLO™ Superbike and DIABLO™ Supercorsa SC racing compounds, including the new 125/70-17 and 200/65-17 sizes that have been developed as a result of Pirelli’s involvement in the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship. DIABLO™ Wet and DIABLO™ Rain tires may also be available upon request, depending on the weather.

In addition to race compounds, riders will have access to Pirelli’s recently introduced DIABLO™ Supercorsa TD.

In addition to race compounds, Pirelli trackside vendors will have the DIABLO™ Superbike SC3 and DIABLO™ Supercorsa TD on hand for track day enthusiasts. The Supercorsa TD, which does not require the use of tire warmers, is the latest addition to the DIABLO™ Supercorsa lineup and is DOT approved, delivering the perfect combination of racetrack performance and durability while cruising the canyons.

Eligible Tires Include:

DIABLO™ Superbike – SC1, SC2, and SC3

DIABLO™ Supercorsa SC – SC1, and TD

DIABLO™ Rain (upon vendor approval)

DIABLO™ Wet (upon vendor approval)

 

To locate your local Pirelli trackside vendor and learn more about the exclusive “Try Before You Buy” program, visit PirelliRacer.com.

For more information about the complete line of Pirelli motorcycle tires, please visit us.Pirelli.com

The Vincent Black Shadow: Tuning For Speed, P2, In The May Issue

“ ...When you spend an afternoon with friends changing out a Lucas magneto for a modern BTH magneto and the bike runs exactly as poorly afterwards as it did beforehand, it is important to not turn to nihilism but, instead, to turn one’s attention to the remote-float Amal carburetors freed from persistent concerns of poor spark performance ...” 

Featured In the May 2020 Issue of Roadracing World: 

     “Our beloved, and soon to be obsolete, four-stroke gasoline engines require a spark delivered at just the right time to ignite the fuel/air mixture which increases pressure in the combustion chamber as the chemical energy in the fuel is converted to heat and expanding gases, forcing the piston back down and turning the crankshaft, etc.

      “For those of you not steeped in the theory, an engine’s connecting rods are kinda like the long bits on a bicycle crank. The pedals where you clip your feet are the pistons. Your legs, in this metaphor, are the burning fuel …”

—The Vincent Black Shadow, Tuning For Speed, Part 2, by Sam Q. Fleming

Sam Fleming’s musings on the proper mindset with which to approach the prospect of getting the timing right on his beloved Vincent Black Shadow and how to reconcile the original Lucas magneto’s existence with the simultaneous presence of a benevolent creator entity are philosophy in (potential) motion. Read his ruminations in the May issue of Roadracing World! Available at Cycle Gear and other motorcycle retailers.

Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology is THE definitive source for motorcycle racing, riding, and tech information.

PREVIEW the May 2020 Issue of Roadracing World!

Roadracing World & Motorcycle Technology magazine is available in print and digital formats. SUBSCRIBE NOW . Or call (909) 654-4779, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time, Monday through Friday.

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MotoAmerica: Öhlins Becomes Sponsorship Partner

Rocco Landers (97) leads Toby Khamsouk (27), Kaleb De Keyrel (51) and the rest of the field early in MotoAmerica Twins Cup Race One. Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy MotoAmerica.
Rocco Landers (97) leads Toby Khamsouk (27), Kaleb De Keyrel (51) and the rest of the field early in MotoAmerica Twins Cup Race One. Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy MotoAmerica.

Öhlins Joins MotoAmerica As Sponsorship Partner For 2020

High-End Suspension Company To Showcase Its Wares

IRVINE, CA (June 10, 2020) – MotoAmerica has announced that Öhlins, the high-end suspension company, has signed on as a sponsorship partner for the 2020 MotoAmerica Series.

With 40 years of experience in the motorcycle and automotive industry, Öhlins is a leader in high-quality suspension products, service and race support – from the MotoAmerica Series to MotoGP and every series in between.

“I have a long history with Öhlins,” said MotoAmerica President Wayne Rainey. “I raced with them throughout my GP career and won all three of my World Championships using their suspension. I’ve always had a great relationship with them, and I’m really pleased to have Öhlins on board as a sponsorship partner of MotoAmerica. They make quality products and many of our teams use their suspension to win races and championships.”

“All of us at Öhlins USA are excited for the 2020 MotoAmerica race season and to finally be racing again,” said Mike Himmelsbach, Motorsports Market Manager at Öhlins, USA. “We have been in the paddock since the start with MotoAmerica and our gold products can be seen on all the factory bikes racing at the front. We are very pleased to increase our support to MotoAmerica, the racers and the fans in 2020.”

Öhlins USA’s highly skilled team of technicians will work from a fully functional mobile race shop, including four suspension workstations and a complement of specialty tools and parts to service our Öhlins products. They welcome all fans to stop by and see the Öhlins difference.

WERA Sportsman Series Racing At Nelson Ledges This Weekend

Nelson Ledges Road Course. Photo courtesy Nelson Ledges Road Course.
Nelson Ledges Road Course. Photo courtesy Nelson Ledges Road Course.

WERA RACING THIS WEEKEND AT NELSON LEDGES IN OHIO

WERA Motorcycle Roadracing will host a double-header Sportsman Series weekend on June 13/14 at Nelson Ledges Road Course in Warren, OH for the North Central Region riders.

You will notice more improvements at Nelson Ledges thanks to the hard work put in by Brian Ross Racing and his Staff!  Racing starts at 12:30 on Saturday and Noon on Sunday!  There will be a Rider’s School for anyone wanting to make that next step on Saturday.

Both C Superbike and A Superbike will be gridded by times in the second practice session and those two races will be two laps longer.  We want to thank SAS Racing for their support with the A Superbike, A Superstock and Formula 1 Expert Class trophies.

With the Pandemic still being a part of our lives we ask that you please practice social distancing, wear masks when not in your pit area and bring your own pens.  We will have extra masks as well as hand sanitizer available.  Be safe and let’s go racing!

WERA Motorcycle Roadracing was established in 1973 and is currently co-sanctioning event with AMA and partners with N2 on the National Endurance Series. Web site is wera.com and more information is available on the website as well as our Facebook Page business.facebook.com/wera.roadracing/.