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MotoGP: Interview With Ducati Rider Andrea Dovizioso

Interview with Andrea Dovizioso: “It is hard to be the best, but you need to have this mindset to become like that”

As the lockdown continues, the Ducati Team rider explains in this interview how he is spending his time at home and speaks out about his 2020 preseason tests.

The ongoing Coronavirus outbreak has put on hold the start of the 2020 MotoGP World Championship, and, during these months, different countries in the world are also adopting lockdown measures and travel restrictions to prevent the spread of the virus.

Italy has been one of the states most affected by the Covid-19, and since the last 9th March, all citizens are spending their times at home fighting together against the Coronavirus emergency. Based in Forlì, Andrea Dovizioso is also respecting the measure in his house, and he told about his feelings on it in this interview: “Nobody expected the situation to turn out this bad, so it is really strange. Now it is crucial to stay at home. I know it is difficult, but we all have to try to go out only when needed, also because it seems that this measure is working, so we need to continue like this”.

The Ducati Team rider also explained how he is coping with the lockdown and how he is spending his days. “At the beginning, it was quite hard. My girlfriend and I did a few housework, but now things have changed a little. My daughter is staying with us, and there is a lot of work to do with her”.

Apart from spending time with his family, Dovizioso explained how he is taking advantage of these weeks to increase his workouts: “I am training harder than before. Normally, our schedule is tight. We have to train, but also find some time to rest to be ready for the race weekend. Now I can train as much as I want”. Speaking also about his passion for motocross, Dovi added: “I am trying to follow motocross as much as I can, also because in America they are allowed to continue their activities, so I can watch what they’re doing. For me, it is like a sort of time to recharge”.

Before the cancellation of the opening MotoGP Grand Prix for 2020, which was due on the last 8th March in Qatar, the Ducati Team riders Dovizioso and Petrucci were able to undergo two official preseason tests in February, in Malaysia and Qatar, where they worked on the final development of their Desmosedici GP20 bikes. Looking back to those two three-day tests the Ducati rider said: “I think that two preseason tests are not enough for us. Our bodies are not ready yet to ride that much for three consecutive days. I spend most of the time trying new items, and we also need to be sure before deciding on which way continuing our development. That is why I am usually not that fast during the tests. I always try to try the materials during the right time and with certain tyres because I want to give the right feedback”.

Speaking on the new tyre solutions introduced by Michelin this year he also added: “At the beginning, it looked like the new tyres weren’t adapting well to our riding style and our characteristics. But I think, in the end, we were able to improve the overall feeling with the bike during the Qatar Test. Unfortunately, it doesn’t mean that we will be fine on all race tracks. The rear tyres are different, and they affect the front tyres a lot. We did a lot of laps, but during a test, it is difficult to find the same conditions as in the race”.

The Ducati Team rider also stated his goal for the 2020 season, which hasn’t changed from the years before: “Of course, we head into the new season to fight for the championship. If that will be possible, we are only able to find out during the season, but it is always difficult as there are a lot of fast riders. It is hard to be the best, but you need to have this mindset to become like that”.

Watch the whole interview on the Ducati Corse Instagram and Twitter pages and the official Ducati YouTube channel.

Roadracing World Young Guns 2020: Rossi Moor

24th-Annual Roadracing World Young Gun Honors:

By David Swarts

Roadracing World started this exclusive special feature recognizing the most promising young road racers as an answer to pessimists who claimed America had no new, up-and-coming young racers. This edition of the Roadracing World Young Gun Awards marks the 24th consecutive year of showcasing an abundance of new talent.

Roadracing World Young Guns have won:

FIM MotoGP and FIM Superbike races and World Championships;

AMA Pro races and Championships, including eight AMA Pro Superbike Championships;

A KTM RC Cup World Final race;

The Daytona 200 (8 times);

WERA National Endurance Championships and WERA National Challenge Championships;

ASRA/Formula USA Grand National and CCS National Championships;

AMA Road Racing Grand Championships and Horizon Awards;

USGPRU National Championships;

Many regional and local titles.

The competition has continually become more intense as more – and younger—racers with higher levels of accomplishment are nominated, and the level of achievement required to make the grade keeps getting tougher.

We’ve spent the last several months accepting nominations and evaluating road racers between the ages of 11 and 18 (as of the start of the 2020 season) who have, at a minimum, won Expert-level road races and/or Championships on a 125cc two-stroke/250cc four-stroke or larger racebike or had outstanding results as an Amateur/Novice. Most of the riders included here have done far more than the minimum.

The young riders recognized here are the most promising young road racers in North America. All have earned the title of Roadracing World Young Gun.

We will feature one Young Gun per day, presenting them in alphabetical order.

 

Rossi Moor. Photo courtesy of Rossi Moor.
Rossi Moor. Photo courtesy of Rossi Moor.

Rossi Moor

Age: 12.

Current home: Budapest, Hungary (originally from Portland, Oregon).

Current height/weight: 5’5”/108 pounds.

Current school grade level: 6th grade.

Began riding at age: 2.5 years.

First road race: 2014, McMinnville, Oregon, Oregon Superbikers, 125cc four-stroke, 1st place.

Current racebike: Honda NSF250R.

Current tuners/mechanic: Snipers Mugen Race Junior Team.

Primary race series: European Talent Cup.

Top sponsors: Snipers Mugen Race Junior Team, AGV, Dainese, HealTech.

Recent racing accomplishments: 2019 season, placed 2nd in CIV (Italian) Ohvale GP-0 190 National Championship, won MotoAmerica Ohvale Talent Cup at Pittsburgh International Race Complex, won Ohvale GP-0 190 races in Hungarian National Championship, earned pole position and led a race at Ohvale World Championship, finished 25th in European Talent Cup race at Jerez (was youngest participant).

2020 racing goal: Finish in top 15 overall and be top American in European Talent Cup Championship.

Racing career goal: Win MotoGP World Championship.

Racing hero: Valentino Rossi.

Favorite track: Jerez.

Favorite hobby: Gaming.

If I wasn’t racing I would be…: a boxer.

New Racing Industry Group Forms Safe-To-Race Task Force

Safe-to-Race Task Force Announced

The Race Leadership Team has appointed a Safe-to-Race Task Force to manage our sport’s race to recovery. Members of the committee include representatives from AMA, AMA Pro Racing, Feld Entertainment, Ignite Partners, MX Sports Pro Racing, USMA, and others experienced and knowledgeable in motorsports event operations and management. The group also includes event software developers, series managers and a rider representative.

The goal of the committee will be to develop best practices for a post-COVID19 motorsports event to be shared with race promoters and event organizers nationwide. The Safe-to-Race Task Force will review current processes and procedures for cash transactions, gate admission, race registration, technical inspection, riders meetings, race procedures, podium celebrations, press conferences, autograph sessions, fan participation and viewing areas, parking and camping areas, etc., and recommend new protocols that focus on protecting the personal health, safety and welfare of athletes, fans and staff. The group will review how to accommodate current social distancing guidelines and identify preventative actions that can be implemented during an event, such as hands-free registration, cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces, and maintaining safe distancing in public areas, as recommended by the CDC. The group will also develop an infectious disease outbreak plan for event organizers that can be shared with their community leaders and local health officials. This group’s final product will be the Safe-to-Race Tool Kit.

It is the opinion of the RLT that the return to competition will be determined on a local level, and that local authorities and health officials will play a significant role in the decision on whether it is safe to race. By developing a Safe-to-Race Tool Kit for event organizers that can be shared with local authorities, the return to competition may be quickened, as health officials can be assured that adequate infectious disease safety precautions were in place. By being proactive and developing motorsports-specific safety protocols, the Safe-to-Race Tool Kit will provide the information and comfort to officials and fans that it is safe to return to the racetrack. By working together, we can all race safe. We look forward to sharing the results with our race community.

 

Safe-to-Race Task Force Members:

 

AMA: Bill Cumbow, Mike Pelletier, Alexandria Kovacs

AMA Pro Racing: Gene Crouch, Jared Johnson and Joey Mancari

Feld Entertainment: Dave Prater

Ignite Partners: Ken Hudgens and Tim Murray

Motorsports Reg: Brian Ghidinelli and Chris Redrich

MX Sports: Tim Cotter, Jeremy Holbert and Jeff Canfield

MX Sports Pro Racing: Davey Coombs, Carrie Russell and Roy Janson

Mylaps: John Dains and Gabe Ellett

Pro Motocross Organizers: Amy Ritchie and Alan Verlander

USMA: Robert Johnson and Shawn Stewart

Rider Representative: JH Leale

 

About the Race Leadership Team (RLT):

As a result of the COVID19 crisis and the resulting cancellation of events, it became necessary to communicate on a regular basis with the race community regarding scheduling. The Race Leadership Team (RLT) was organized to accomplish this goal and consists of representatives from the AMA, MX Sports and MX Sports Pro Racing. The RLT meets every Monday to review race schedules, making adjustments as needed, and work with event organizers to reschedule events when possible, as we maneuver through the crisis.

The RLT continues to urge racing families to use common sense: 1) wash your hands often; 2) avoid shaking hands or coming into close personal contact with others; 3) cough into your elbow; 4) if you are sick, stay home; 5) if you are really sick, go to the hospital; and 6) don’t panic.

The health, safety and welfare of our riders, fans and their families remain paramount, and we will keep our race community apprised of all further developments.

Please direct all communications to [email protected].

Podcast: Greg’s Garage Pod With Jason Pridmore Episode 74

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

MotoGP – Suggestions on how to reduce costs for the 2020 season.

MotoGP – Andrea Dovizioso chat.

General – Virtual Racing

MotoAmerica – Looking at the latest calendar. JP with some insight into the moving of “The Ridge” round.

AMA Superbike – Who are your top three Superbike racers, between 1998 and now, that should have won a championship.

Video: “FIM Rides The World” Episode 3 Focuses On MotoGP

“FIM Rides the World”

Episode 3: Grand Prix

Whilst we all look forward to the resumption of the 2020 FIM MotoGPTM World Championship season, the FIM is delighted to launch the third episode in the series “FIM Ride the World”, which is dedicated to Grand Prix Racing.

This championship can be easily summarised: the best riders ready to battle for victory with millions of fans – trackside and at home – cheering on their heroes: without these two key ingredients motorcycle racing could not survive.

Ever since 1904, the International Motorcycling Federation has used its passion and experience in order to tackle the most difficult technical and organisational challenges for the overall benefit of this sport.

As with the previous chapters in this series, this episode gives a voice to the hidden heroes and reveals the backstage story of the organisation behind the events and is one of the five competitions that is highlighted across five different disciplines.

After the second episode, which was dedicated to FIM Enduro World Championship, the story continues with FIM Grand Prix World Championship.

FIM President Jorge Viegas added his own words of explanation: “Like every member of the global motorcycle family, the FIM and I remain focused on resuming racing as soon as possible, but only when it is safe to do so. During every weekend of a normal racing season the FIM’s main priority is the safety of riders, the teams, the officials, the volunteers, the fans and all other parties who are involved in our sport, and now during this exceptional period of no racing our priority remains exactly the same. Whilst we continue to work with all our promoters and key stakeholders regarding the resumption of the various championships, we would like to share with you this insight into the important and amazing work done by all our FIM officials, whose collective efforts provide an increased level of safety year on year.”

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Video: Yamaha Presents: Hangin’ With The Hayes Family

Earlier this year, four-time AMA Superbike Champion Josh Hayes and his family hit the road in search of another Daytona 200 win. This is the beginning of his story.

Note: Content was filmed prior to pandemic restrictions.

 

KTM North America Announces Details, Pricing On 390 Adventure

2020 KTM 390 ADVENTURE

MSRP: $6,199 USD/ $6,799 CAD

RACE INSPIRED

The left side of a 2020-model KTM 390 Adventure. Photo courtesy of KTM North America.
The left side of a 2020-model KTM 390 Adventure. Photo courtesy of KTM North America.

Satisfy your restless spirit with the new KTM 390 ADVENTURE. This compact single-cylinder travel-enduro machine has a sporty design attitude, with the comprehensive equipment and proven performance credentials of the KTM ADVENTURE range. A state-of-the-art, liquid cooled, single-cylinder, four-stroke 373.2 cc engine powers this agile machine perfectly into KTM’s world of ADVENTURE. The engine is equipped with an electric starter and achieves impressive peak power with incredibly punchy torque. Twin overhead camshafts, four valves and electronic fuel injection are integral to the KTM 390 ADVENTURE’s outstanding power and together with a balancer shaft, deliver the highest levels of smoothness. Its versatile ergonomics, smooth power delivery and innovative technology all come together in a comfortable, lightweight package built for those wanting to fit more adventure into their daily lives.

 

A 2020-model KTM 390 Adventure. at speed. Photo courtesy of KTM North America.
A 2020-model KTM 390 Adventure at speed. Photo courtesy of KTM North America.

 

2020 KTM 390 ADVENTURE HIGHLIGHTS

 

  • Extremely powerful single cylinder, 4-stroke, 373.2 cc DOHC engine, electronic fuel injection, 3-way catalytic converter and balancer shaft, PASC slipper clutch and a Ride-by-Wire throttle for a smoother and more refined response.
  • State-of-the-art engine management system featuring the most modern electronic fuel injection system with a 46 mm throttle body.
  • Lightweight, precision-crafted exhaust system, comprising of a stainless steel header pipe and pre-muffler, which flow perfectly into a slim silencer.
  • Ultralight trellis frame strikes a forgiving balance of flex and stiffness and is designed for straight-line stability and agile and precise steering.
  • Bolt-on trellis subframe is compact and lightweight, but strong enough to carry a passenger and luggage, while negotiating extreme terrain.
  • Die-cast, open-lattice swingarm is a signature element of the KTM ADVENTURE range. It is precisely manufactured with an optimized stiffness, while still offering excellent flex characteristics. Its long design offers stability and the space needed for offroad tread.
  • WP APEX 43 mm upside-down fork was originally developed for enduro riding and is the absolute leader when it comes to suspension in this class. It features a spring on both sides, but each fork leg has a separate function: compression damping is fitted on the left side, while rebound is on the right.
  • Cutting-edge WP APEX shock absorber provides 177 mm of travel and is ideal for traveling long distances in tough conditions. Thanks to an adjustable spring preload and rebound damping, it can be fine-tuned to different situations.
  • Extra robust cast wheels specifically designed for demanding terrain—19” front wheel and 17” rear wheel, both fitted with tubeless CONTINENTAL TKC 70 tires for a blend of street performance and offroad grip.
  • High-quality BYBRE brakes featuring a large 320 mm front brake disc and a 230 mm rear disc work perfectly with a 4-piston radially mounted front caliper and a 2-piston floating rear caliper to provide the ideal mix of control and stopping power.
  • Ergonomically designed fuel tank with impressive 14.5 liter (3.8 gallons) fuel capacity, together with its exceptional fuel economy, is set for more than 400 km (249 miles) of non-stop exploring on a full tank.
  • High-end, tapered aluminum handlebar that importantly, provides a comfortable riding position and maximum control.
  • Windshield profile that allows the rider to move around the bike freely and offers an unobstructed view directly in front of the bike, even when covered in dirt. It can also be mounted in a lower or higher position to suit the rider´s size or needs.
  • State-of-the-art LED lights are used as the main headlight and taillight and offer great illumination and visibility while being compact and light.
  • Multifunctional dashboard with full-color 5” TFT display is bright and clear and offers a configurable set up via the menu switch on the handlebar.
  • Offroad ABS function improves braking control in offroad situations. In this mode, ABS is deactivated on the rear wheel, while ABS activation on the front wheel is reduced.
  • Motorcycle Traction Control (MTC) reduces the engine output with an extremely smooth, barely perceptible intervention if the rotational speed of the rear wheel is disproportionate to the speed of the engine, until the system has reduced slippage to manageable proportions for the current angle of lean.
  • Cornering ABS system allows riders to always use the full power of their brakes, while the system adjusts brake pressure to match the lean angle of the motorcycle for more predictable braking across a range of situations.
  • KTM MY RIDE comes as standard and allows for Bluetooth connection to control incoming calls and audio player through the full color TFT display.
  • The KTM 390 ADVENTURE can optionally be equipped with a race-derived Quickshifter +. Up and down-shifts can be performed without the need to pull the clutch lever.

 

The cockpit of a 2020 KTM 390 Adventure. Photo courtesy of KTM North America.
The cockpit of a 2020 KTM 390 Adventure. Photo courtesy of KTM North America.

 

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine Type: Single Cylinder, 4-Stroke, DOHC

Displacement: 373.2 cc

Bore/Stroke: 89/60 mm

Starter: Electric; 12V 8Ah

Transmission: 6 Gears

Fuel System: Bosch EFI, 46 mm Throttle Body

Lubrication: Wet Sump

Cooling: Liquid Cooling

Clutch: PASC Slipper Clutch, Mechanically Operated

Ignition: Bosch EMS with Ride-By-Wire

Frame: Steel Trellis

Subframe: Steel Trellis

Handlebar:  Aluminum, Tapered, Ø 26/22 mm

Front Suspension: WP APEX USD Ø 43 mm

Rear Suspension: WP APEX Monoshock

Suspension Travel Front/Rear: 170 mm/ 6.7 in; 177 mm/ 6.9 in

Front/Rear Brakes: Disc Brake 320 mm/230 mm

Front/Rear Wheels: 2.50 x 19”, 3.50 x 17”

Front/Rear Tires: 100/90-19”; 130/80-17”

Steering Head Angle: 26.5º

Wheelbase: 1,430 mm ± 15.5 mm / 56.3 ± 0.6 in

Ground Clearance: 200 mm / 7.8 in

Seat Height: 855 mm / 33.6 in

Tank Capacity: 14.5 L / 3.8 gal

Dry Weight, Approx: 158 kg/ 348.3 lbs

The right side of a 2020-model KTM 390 Adventure. Photo courtesy of KTM North America.
The right side of a 2020-model KTM 390 Adventure. Photo courtesy of KTM North America.

Roadracing World Young Guns 2020: Joseph LiMandri, Jr.

24th-Annual Roadracing World Young Gun Honors:

By David Swarts

Roadracing World started this exclusive special feature recognizing the most promising young road racers as an answer to pessimists who claimed America had no new, up-and-coming young racers. This edition of the Roadracing World Young Gun Awards marks the 24th consecutive year of showcasing an abundance of new talent.

Roadracing World Young Guns have won:

FIM MotoGP and FIM Superbike races and World Championships;

AMA Pro races and Championships, including eight AMA Pro Superbike Championships;

A KTM RC Cup World Final race;

The Daytona 200 (8 times);

WERA National Endurance Championships and WERA National Challenge Championships;

ASRA/Formula USA Grand National and CCS National Championships;

AMA Road Racing Grand Championships and Horizon Awards;

USGPRU National Championships;

Many regional and local titles.

The competition has continually become more intense as more – and younger—racers with higher levels of accomplishment are nominated, and the level of achievement required to make the grade keeps getting tougher.

We’ve spent the last several months accepting nominations and evaluating road racers between the ages of 11 and 18 (as of the start of the 2020 season) who have, at a minimum, won Expert-level road races and/or Championships on a 125cc two-stroke/250cc four-stroke or larger racebike or had outstanding results as an Amateur/Novice. Most of the riders included here have done far more than the minimum.

The young riders recognized here are the most promising young road racers in North America. All have earned the title of Roadracing World Young Gun.

We will feature one Young Gun per day, presenting them in alphabetical order.

Joseph LiMandri, Jr. Photo by David Vae Vang/Noiseless Productions.
Joseph LiMandri, Jr. Photo by David Vae Vang/Noiseless Productions.

 

Joseph LiMandri Jr.

Age: 15.

Current home: Garden City, New York.

Current height/weight: 5’6”/118 pounds.

Current school grade level: 9th grade.

Began riding at age: 5 years.

First road race: 2012, NJMiniGP, Millville, New Jersey, Spec 50 Class, 4thplace.

Current racebike: Kawasaki Ninja 400.

Current tuner/mechanic: Joseph LiMandri, Sr. (father).

Primary race series: MotoAmerica Junior Cup.

Top sponsors: N2 Trackdays, Evolve GT, Cybersafe Solutions, Heroic Racing Apparel, Arai, Scott Powersports, Metric Devil Moto, Cycle Gear, Precision Autoworks, Vortex Racing, LI Racing, Orient Express.

Recent racing accomplishments: 2019 season, finished 5th in MotoAmerica Junior Cup race at VIR, injured for most of 2019 season; 2018 season, won 3 CCS Regional Championships, placed 2nd in 3 other CCS Regional Championships, 21 race wins, 29 podium finishes.

2020 racing goal: Finish on the podium in MotoAmerica Junior Cup rounds.

Racing career goal: Become a professional racer, compete at the World Championship level.

Racing hero: Valentino Rossi.

Favorite track: Pittsburgh International Race Complex

Favorite hobby: Riding bicycles.

If I wasn’t racing I would be…: Playing football.

MRA Cancels Opening Round, Appoints New Treasurer

MRA appoints Tiffany Maestas as treasurer; Cancels first race weekend

Denver, CO – The Motorcycle Roadracing Association filled a
vacancy left by a retiring treasurer and announced the cancellation of the
first race weekend at High Plains Raceway originally scheduled for May
16-17.

Tiffany Maestas will succeed Laci Lukachy as the MRA treasurer and member of
the Board of Directors.  Tiffany is a current Motorcycle Safety Foundation
certified lead rider coach & instructor, a certified Harley-Davidson Riding
Academy coach and a longtime MRA road racer.  Her background in finance and
purchasing with the Gates Corporation will be highly beneficial to the
financial stability of the MRA.  The MRA wishes Laci and her husband Mike
Lukachy (owner of Quikcycles in Denver) all the best in their new racing
adventures in South Carolina.

 

Tiffany Maestas, MRA's new treasurer. Photo courtesy of MRA.
Tiffany Maestas, MRA’s new treasurer. Photo courtesy of MRA.

As are many states, Colorado is under a stay-at-home advisory during the
COVID-19 situation.   The uncertainty caused by this situation has prompted
the MRA to make the tough decision of cancelling the first round of racing
which would have been on May 16-17.  Late in March, the MRA also cancelled
its New Racers’ School for similar reasons.  The MRA Board of Directors is
monitoring the situation and decisions for future race events will be
announced as soon as possible.

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

MotoAmerica: Mini Cup By Motul Registration Now Open

Entries Open For MotoAmerica Mini Cup By Motul

Inaugural Series Begins May 30 At Road America

IRVINE, CA (April 15, 2020) – MotoAmerica has announced that entries are now open for the inaugural, three-round MotoAmerica Mini Cup by Motul. In addition, the rulebook and teambooks are also available.

Entries are now open for the inaugural 2020 MotoAmerica Mini Cup by Motul.
Entries for the Motul Mini Cup by Motul races will be $175 for Saturday with options available for Friday practice.

The Mini Cup Series will feature four classes of racing: 110cc (four speed); 160cc; 190cc (racers aged up to 14 years); and 190cc Adult (racers over the age of 15). The motorcycles will be based on spec rules centered around the Ohvale GP-0, a mini road racer that is now ready for the U.S. market after proving to be extremely popular in Europe.

The MotoAmerica Mini Cup fills a current void in the series and provides an entry point for riders under the age of 14. The Mini Cup will give young racers a way to bridge the gap to the MotoAmerica Liqui Moly Junior Cup class through the MotoAmerica Mini Cup and “The Road To MotoAmerica.”

“It’s going to be exciting to watch the entries come in as the season rapidly approaches,” said Lance Bryson, MotoAmerica’s Senior Sponsorship Manager. “Based on the response the MotoAmerica Mini Cup by Motul has received, we’re expecting big things and a lot of entries in our first season. It’s going to be a great year to be involved in the series.”

For more information on the MotoAmerica Mini Cup by Motul Series, including entry and rulebook information, visit http://www.motoamericaregistration.com/2020-mini-cup-info/

 

The 2020 AMA MotoAmerica Mini Cup Series

May 29-31 – Road America, Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin

August 7-8 – Pittsburgh International Race Complex, Wampum, Pennsylvania

August 28-30 – The Ridge Motorsports Park, Sheldon, Washington

 

For the full 2020 MotoAmerica Series schedule, click HERE

To purchase tickets to any of the 2020 series rounds, click HERE

For information on how to watch the 2020 MotoAmerica Series, click HERE

 

About MotoAmerica

MotoAmerica is the North American road racing series created in 2014 that is home to the AMA Superbike Championship. MotoAmerica is an affiliate of KRAVE Group LLC, a partnership that includes three-time 500cc World Champion, two-time AMA Superbike Champion, and AMA Hall of Famer Wayne Rainey, ex-racer and former manager of Team Roberts Chuck Aksland, motorsports marketing executive Terry Karges, and businessman Richard Varner. For more information on MotoAmerica, visit www.MotoAmerica.com. Also make sure to follow MotoAmerica on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

MotoGP: Interview With Ducati Rider Andrea Dovizioso

Andrea Dovizioso (04). Photo courtesy of Ducati.
Andrea Dovizioso (04). Photo courtesy Ducati.

Interview with Andrea Dovizioso: “It is hard to be the best, but you need to have this mindset to become like that”

As the lockdown continues, the Ducati Team rider explains in this interview how he is spending his time at home and speaks out about his 2020 preseason tests.

The ongoing Coronavirus outbreak has put on hold the start of the 2020 MotoGP World Championship, and, during these months, different countries in the world are also adopting lockdown measures and travel restrictions to prevent the spread of the virus.

Italy has been one of the states most affected by the Covid-19, and since the last 9th March, all citizens are spending their times at home fighting together against the Coronavirus emergency. Based in Forlì, Andrea Dovizioso is also respecting the measure in his house, and he told about his feelings on it in this interview: “Nobody expected the situation to turn out this bad, so it is really strange. Now it is crucial to stay at home. I know it is difficult, but we all have to try to go out only when needed, also because it seems that this measure is working, so we need to continue like this”.

The Ducati Team rider also explained how he is coping with the lockdown and how he is spending his days. “At the beginning, it was quite hard. My girlfriend and I did a few housework, but now things have changed a little. My daughter is staying with us, and there is a lot of work to do with her”.

Apart from spending time with his family, Dovizioso explained how he is taking advantage of these weeks to increase his workouts: “I am training harder than before. Normally, our schedule is tight. We have to train, but also find some time to rest to be ready for the race weekend. Now I can train as much as I want”. Speaking also about his passion for motocross, Dovi added: “I am trying to follow motocross as much as I can, also because in America they are allowed to continue their activities, so I can watch what they’re doing. For me, it is like a sort of time to recharge”.

Before the cancellation of the opening MotoGP Grand Prix for 2020, which was due on the last 8th March in Qatar, the Ducati Team riders Dovizioso and Petrucci were able to undergo two official preseason tests in February, in Malaysia and Qatar, where they worked on the final development of their Desmosedici GP20 bikes. Looking back to those two three-day tests the Ducati rider said: “I think that two preseason tests are not enough for us. Our bodies are not ready yet to ride that much for three consecutive days. I spend most of the time trying new items, and we also need to be sure before deciding on which way continuing our development. That is why I am usually not that fast during the tests. I always try to try the materials during the right time and with certain tyres because I want to give the right feedback”.

Speaking on the new tyre solutions introduced by Michelin this year he also added: “At the beginning, it looked like the new tyres weren’t adapting well to our riding style and our characteristics. But I think, in the end, we were able to improve the overall feeling with the bike during the Qatar Test. Unfortunately, it doesn’t mean that we will be fine on all race tracks. The rear tyres are different, and they affect the front tyres a lot. We did a lot of laps, but during a test, it is difficult to find the same conditions as in the race”.

The Ducati Team rider also stated his goal for the 2020 season, which hasn’t changed from the years before: “Of course, we head into the new season to fight for the championship. If that will be possible, we are only able to find out during the season, but it is always difficult as there are a lot of fast riders. It is hard to be the best, but you need to have this mindset to become like that”.

Watch the whole interview on the Ducati Corse Instagram and Twitter pages and the official Ducati YouTube channel.

Roadracing World Young Guns 2020: Rossi Moor

Rossi Moor (18) at speed on his Snipers Mugen Race Junior Team Honda NSF250R. Photo courtesy of Rossi Moor.
Rossi Moor (18) at speed on his Snipers Mugen Race Junior Team Honda NSF250R. Photo courtesy of Rossi Moor.

24th-Annual Roadracing World Young Gun Honors:

By David Swarts

Roadracing World started this exclusive special feature recognizing the most promising young road racers as an answer to pessimists who claimed America had no new, up-and-coming young racers. This edition of the Roadracing World Young Gun Awards marks the 24th consecutive year of showcasing an abundance of new talent.

Roadracing World Young Guns have won:

FIM MotoGP and FIM Superbike races and World Championships;

AMA Pro races and Championships, including eight AMA Pro Superbike Championships;

A KTM RC Cup World Final race;

The Daytona 200 (8 times);

WERA National Endurance Championships and WERA National Challenge Championships;

ASRA/Formula USA Grand National and CCS National Championships;

AMA Road Racing Grand Championships and Horizon Awards;

USGPRU National Championships;

Many regional and local titles.

The competition has continually become more intense as more – and younger—racers with higher levels of accomplishment are nominated, and the level of achievement required to make the grade keeps getting tougher.

We’ve spent the last several months accepting nominations and evaluating road racers between the ages of 11 and 18 (as of the start of the 2020 season) who have, at a minimum, won Expert-level road races and/or Championships on a 125cc two-stroke/250cc four-stroke or larger racebike or had outstanding results as an Amateur/Novice. Most of the riders included here have done far more than the minimum.

The young riders recognized here are the most promising young road racers in North America. All have earned the title of Roadracing World Young Gun.

We will feature one Young Gun per day, presenting them in alphabetical order.

 

Rossi Moor. Photo courtesy of Rossi Moor.
Rossi Moor. Photo courtesy of Rossi Moor.

Rossi Moor

Age: 12.

Current home: Budapest, Hungary (originally from Portland, Oregon).

Current height/weight: 5’5”/108 pounds.

Current school grade level: 6th grade.

Began riding at age: 2.5 years.

First road race: 2014, McMinnville, Oregon, Oregon Superbikers, 125cc four-stroke, 1st place.

Current racebike: Honda NSF250R.

Current tuners/mechanic: Snipers Mugen Race Junior Team.

Primary race series: European Talent Cup.

Top sponsors: Snipers Mugen Race Junior Team, AGV, Dainese, HealTech.

Recent racing accomplishments: 2019 season, placed 2nd in CIV (Italian) Ohvale GP-0 190 National Championship, won MotoAmerica Ohvale Talent Cup at Pittsburgh International Race Complex, won Ohvale GP-0 190 races in Hungarian National Championship, earned pole position and led a race at Ohvale World Championship, finished 25th in European Talent Cup race at Jerez (was youngest participant).

2020 racing goal: Finish in top 15 overall and be top American in European Talent Cup Championship.

Racing career goal: Win MotoGP World Championship.

Racing hero: Valentino Rossi.

Favorite track: Jerez.

Favorite hobby: Gaming.

If I wasn’t racing I would be…: a boxer.

New Racing Industry Group Forms Safe-To-Race Task Force

Josh Herrin (2) leads Toni Elias, Garrett Gerloff (31), and Cameron Beaubier (1) during MotoAmerica Superbike Race Two at Road America in 2019. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
Josh Herrin (2) leads Toni Elias, Garrett Gerloff (31), and Cameron Beaubier (1) during MotoAmerica Superbike Race Two at Road America in 2019. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.

Safe-to-Race Task Force Announced

The Race Leadership Team has appointed a Safe-to-Race Task Force to manage our sport’s race to recovery. Members of the committee include representatives from AMA, AMA Pro Racing, Feld Entertainment, Ignite Partners, MX Sports Pro Racing, USMA, and others experienced and knowledgeable in motorsports event operations and management. The group also includes event software developers, series managers and a rider representative.

The goal of the committee will be to develop best practices for a post-COVID19 motorsports event to be shared with race promoters and event organizers nationwide. The Safe-to-Race Task Force will review current processes and procedures for cash transactions, gate admission, race registration, technical inspection, riders meetings, race procedures, podium celebrations, press conferences, autograph sessions, fan participation and viewing areas, parking and camping areas, etc., and recommend new protocols that focus on protecting the personal health, safety and welfare of athletes, fans and staff. The group will review how to accommodate current social distancing guidelines and identify preventative actions that can be implemented during an event, such as hands-free registration, cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces, and maintaining safe distancing in public areas, as recommended by the CDC. The group will also develop an infectious disease outbreak plan for event organizers that can be shared with their community leaders and local health officials. This group’s final product will be the Safe-to-Race Tool Kit.

It is the opinion of the RLT that the return to competition will be determined on a local level, and that local authorities and health officials will play a significant role in the decision on whether it is safe to race. By developing a Safe-to-Race Tool Kit for event organizers that can be shared with local authorities, the return to competition may be quickened, as health officials can be assured that adequate infectious disease safety precautions were in place. By being proactive and developing motorsports-specific safety protocols, the Safe-to-Race Tool Kit will provide the information and comfort to officials and fans that it is safe to return to the racetrack. By working together, we can all race safe. We look forward to sharing the results with our race community.

 

Safe-to-Race Task Force Members:

 

AMA: Bill Cumbow, Mike Pelletier, Alexandria Kovacs

AMA Pro Racing: Gene Crouch, Jared Johnson and Joey Mancari

Feld Entertainment: Dave Prater

Ignite Partners: Ken Hudgens and Tim Murray

Motorsports Reg: Brian Ghidinelli and Chris Redrich

MX Sports: Tim Cotter, Jeremy Holbert and Jeff Canfield

MX Sports Pro Racing: Davey Coombs, Carrie Russell and Roy Janson

Mylaps: John Dains and Gabe Ellett

Pro Motocross Organizers: Amy Ritchie and Alan Verlander

USMA: Robert Johnson and Shawn Stewart

Rider Representative: JH Leale

 

About the Race Leadership Team (RLT):

As a result of the COVID19 crisis and the resulting cancellation of events, it became necessary to communicate on a regular basis with the race community regarding scheduling. The Race Leadership Team (RLT) was organized to accomplish this goal and consists of representatives from the AMA, MX Sports and MX Sports Pro Racing. The RLT meets every Monday to review race schedules, making adjustments as needed, and work with event organizers to reschedule events when possible, as we maneuver through the crisis.

The RLT continues to urge racing families to use common sense: 1) wash your hands often; 2) avoid shaking hands or coming into close personal contact with others; 3) cough into your elbow; 4) if you are sick, stay home; 5) if you are really sick, go to the hospital; and 6) don’t panic.

The health, safety and welfare of our riders, fans and their families remain paramount, and we will keep our race community apprised of all further developments.

Please direct all communications to [email protected].

Podcast: Greg’s Garage Pod With Jason Pridmore Episode 74

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

MotoGP – Suggestions on how to reduce costs for the 2020 season.

MotoGP – Andrea Dovizioso chat.

General – Virtual Racing

MotoAmerica – Looking at the latest calendar. JP with some insight into the moving of “The Ridge” round.

AMA Superbike – Who are your top three Superbike racers, between 1998 and now, that should have won a championship.

Video: “FIM Rides The World” Episode 3 Focuses On MotoGP

Fabio Quartararo (20) leads Marc Marquez (93) and the rest of the field early in the MotoGP race in Thailand in 2019. Photo courtesy of PETRONAS Yamaha SRT.
Fabio Quartararo (20) leads Marc Marquez (93) and the rest of the field early in the MotoGP race in Thailand in 2019. Photo courtesy of PETRONAS Yamaha SRT.

“FIM Rides the World”

Episode 3: Grand Prix

Whilst we all look forward to the resumption of the 2020 FIM MotoGPTM World Championship season, the FIM is delighted to launch the third episode in the series “FIM Ride the World”, which is dedicated to Grand Prix Racing.

This championship can be easily summarised: the best riders ready to battle for victory with millions of fans – trackside and at home – cheering on their heroes: without these two key ingredients motorcycle racing could not survive.

Ever since 1904, the International Motorcycling Federation has used its passion and experience in order to tackle the most difficult technical and organisational challenges for the overall benefit of this sport.

As with the previous chapters in this series, this episode gives a voice to the hidden heroes and reveals the backstage story of the organisation behind the events and is one of the five competitions that is highlighted across five different disciplines.

After the second episode, which was dedicated to FIM Enduro World Championship, the story continues with FIM Grand Prix World Championship.

FIM President Jorge Viegas added his own words of explanation: “Like every member of the global motorcycle family, the FIM and I remain focused on resuming racing as soon as possible, but only when it is safe to do so. During every weekend of a normal racing season the FIM’s main priority is the safety of riders, the teams, the officials, the volunteers, the fans and all other parties who are involved in our sport, and now during this exceptional period of no racing our priority remains exactly the same. Whilst we continue to work with all our promoters and key stakeholders regarding the resumption of the various championships, we would like to share with you this insight into the important and amazing work done by all our FIM officials, whose collective efforts provide an increased level of safety year on year.”

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Video: Yamaha Presents: Hangin’ With The Hayes Family

Josh Hayes (left) with his wife, MP13 Racing team owner and MotoAmerica racer Melissa Paris, at New Jersey Motorsports Park in 2019. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
Josh Hayes (left) with his wife, MP13 Racing team owner and MotoAmerica racer Melissa Paris, at New Jersey Motorsports Park in 2019. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.

Earlier this year, four-time AMA Superbike Champion Josh Hayes and his family hit the road in search of another Daytona 200 win. This is the beginning of his story.

Note: Content was filmed prior to pandemic restrictions.

 

KTM North America Announces Details, Pricing On 390 Adventure

A 2020-model KTM 390 Adventure. Photo courtesy of KTM North America.
A 2020-model KTM 390 Adventure. Photo courtesy of KTM North America.

2020 KTM 390 ADVENTURE

MSRP: $6,199 USD/ $6,799 CAD

RACE INSPIRED

The left side of a 2020-model KTM 390 Adventure. Photo courtesy of KTM North America.
The left side of a 2020-model KTM 390 Adventure. Photo courtesy of KTM North America.

Satisfy your restless spirit with the new KTM 390 ADVENTURE. This compact single-cylinder travel-enduro machine has a sporty design attitude, with the comprehensive equipment and proven performance credentials of the KTM ADVENTURE range. A state-of-the-art, liquid cooled, single-cylinder, four-stroke 373.2 cc engine powers this agile machine perfectly into KTM’s world of ADVENTURE. The engine is equipped with an electric starter and achieves impressive peak power with incredibly punchy torque. Twin overhead camshafts, four valves and electronic fuel injection are integral to the KTM 390 ADVENTURE’s outstanding power and together with a balancer shaft, deliver the highest levels of smoothness. Its versatile ergonomics, smooth power delivery and innovative technology all come together in a comfortable, lightweight package built for those wanting to fit more adventure into their daily lives.

 

A 2020-model KTM 390 Adventure. at speed. Photo courtesy of KTM North America.
A 2020-model KTM 390 Adventure at speed. Photo courtesy of KTM North America.

 

2020 KTM 390 ADVENTURE HIGHLIGHTS

 

  • Extremely powerful single cylinder, 4-stroke, 373.2 cc DOHC engine, electronic fuel injection, 3-way catalytic converter and balancer shaft, PASC slipper clutch and a Ride-by-Wire throttle for a smoother and more refined response.
  • State-of-the-art engine management system featuring the most modern electronic fuel injection system with a 46 mm throttle body.
  • Lightweight, precision-crafted exhaust system, comprising of a stainless steel header pipe and pre-muffler, which flow perfectly into a slim silencer.
  • Ultralight trellis frame strikes a forgiving balance of flex and stiffness and is designed for straight-line stability and agile and precise steering.
  • Bolt-on trellis subframe is compact and lightweight, but strong enough to carry a passenger and luggage, while negotiating extreme terrain.
  • Die-cast, open-lattice swingarm is a signature element of the KTM ADVENTURE range. It is precisely manufactured with an optimized stiffness, while still offering excellent flex characteristics. Its long design offers stability and the space needed for offroad tread.
  • WP APEX 43 mm upside-down fork was originally developed for enduro riding and is the absolute leader when it comes to suspension in this class. It features a spring on both sides, but each fork leg has a separate function: compression damping is fitted on the left side, while rebound is on the right.
  • Cutting-edge WP APEX shock absorber provides 177 mm of travel and is ideal for traveling long distances in tough conditions. Thanks to an adjustable spring preload and rebound damping, it can be fine-tuned to different situations.
  • Extra robust cast wheels specifically designed for demanding terrain—19” front wheel and 17” rear wheel, both fitted with tubeless CONTINENTAL TKC 70 tires for a blend of street performance and offroad grip.
  • High-quality BYBRE brakes featuring a large 320 mm front brake disc and a 230 mm rear disc work perfectly with a 4-piston radially mounted front caliper and a 2-piston floating rear caliper to provide the ideal mix of control and stopping power.
  • Ergonomically designed fuel tank with impressive 14.5 liter (3.8 gallons) fuel capacity, together with its exceptional fuel economy, is set for more than 400 km (249 miles) of non-stop exploring on a full tank.
  • High-end, tapered aluminum handlebar that importantly, provides a comfortable riding position and maximum control.
  • Windshield profile that allows the rider to move around the bike freely and offers an unobstructed view directly in front of the bike, even when covered in dirt. It can also be mounted in a lower or higher position to suit the rider´s size or needs.
  • State-of-the-art LED lights are used as the main headlight and taillight and offer great illumination and visibility while being compact and light.
  • Multifunctional dashboard with full-color 5” TFT display is bright and clear and offers a configurable set up via the menu switch on the handlebar.
  • Offroad ABS function improves braking control in offroad situations. In this mode, ABS is deactivated on the rear wheel, while ABS activation on the front wheel is reduced.
  • Motorcycle Traction Control (MTC) reduces the engine output with an extremely smooth, barely perceptible intervention if the rotational speed of the rear wheel is disproportionate to the speed of the engine, until the system has reduced slippage to manageable proportions for the current angle of lean.
  • Cornering ABS system allows riders to always use the full power of their brakes, while the system adjusts brake pressure to match the lean angle of the motorcycle for more predictable braking across a range of situations.
  • KTM MY RIDE comes as standard and allows for Bluetooth connection to control incoming calls and audio player through the full color TFT display.
  • The KTM 390 ADVENTURE can optionally be equipped with a race-derived Quickshifter +. Up and down-shifts can be performed without the need to pull the clutch lever.

 

The cockpit of a 2020 KTM 390 Adventure. Photo courtesy of KTM North America.
The cockpit of a 2020 KTM 390 Adventure. Photo courtesy of KTM North America.

 

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine Type: Single Cylinder, 4-Stroke, DOHC

Displacement: 373.2 cc

Bore/Stroke: 89/60 mm

Starter: Electric; 12V 8Ah

Transmission: 6 Gears

Fuel System: Bosch EFI, 46 mm Throttle Body

Lubrication: Wet Sump

Cooling: Liquid Cooling

Clutch: PASC Slipper Clutch, Mechanically Operated

Ignition: Bosch EMS with Ride-By-Wire

Frame: Steel Trellis

Subframe: Steel Trellis

Handlebar:  Aluminum, Tapered, Ø 26/22 mm

Front Suspension: WP APEX USD Ø 43 mm

Rear Suspension: WP APEX Monoshock

Suspension Travel Front/Rear: 170 mm/ 6.7 in; 177 mm/ 6.9 in

Front/Rear Brakes: Disc Brake 320 mm/230 mm

Front/Rear Wheels: 2.50 x 19”, 3.50 x 17”

Front/Rear Tires: 100/90-19”; 130/80-17”

Steering Head Angle: 26.5º

Wheelbase: 1,430 mm ± 15.5 mm / 56.3 ± 0.6 in

Ground Clearance: 200 mm / 7.8 in

Seat Height: 855 mm / 33.6 in

Tank Capacity: 14.5 L / 3.8 gal

Dry Weight, Approx: 158 kg/ 348.3 lbs

The right side of a 2020-model KTM 390 Adventure. Photo courtesy of KTM North America.
The right side of a 2020-model KTM 390 Adventure. Photo courtesy of KTM North America.

Roadracing World Young Guns 2020: Joseph LiMandri, Jr.

Joseph LiMandri, Jr. (62). Photo by David Vae Vang/Noiseless Productions.
Joseph LiMandri, Jr. (62). Photo by David Vae Vang/Noiseless Productions.

24th-Annual Roadracing World Young Gun Honors:

By David Swarts

Roadracing World started this exclusive special feature recognizing the most promising young road racers as an answer to pessimists who claimed America had no new, up-and-coming young racers. This edition of the Roadracing World Young Gun Awards marks the 24th consecutive year of showcasing an abundance of new talent.

Roadracing World Young Guns have won:

FIM MotoGP and FIM Superbike races and World Championships;

AMA Pro races and Championships, including eight AMA Pro Superbike Championships;

A KTM RC Cup World Final race;

The Daytona 200 (8 times);

WERA National Endurance Championships and WERA National Challenge Championships;

ASRA/Formula USA Grand National and CCS National Championships;

AMA Road Racing Grand Championships and Horizon Awards;

USGPRU National Championships;

Many regional and local titles.

The competition has continually become more intense as more – and younger—racers with higher levels of accomplishment are nominated, and the level of achievement required to make the grade keeps getting tougher.

We’ve spent the last several months accepting nominations and evaluating road racers between the ages of 11 and 18 (as of the start of the 2020 season) who have, at a minimum, won Expert-level road races and/or Championships on a 125cc two-stroke/250cc four-stroke or larger racebike or had outstanding results as an Amateur/Novice. Most of the riders included here have done far more than the minimum.

The young riders recognized here are the most promising young road racers in North America. All have earned the title of Roadracing World Young Gun.

We will feature one Young Gun per day, presenting them in alphabetical order.

Joseph LiMandri, Jr. Photo by David Vae Vang/Noiseless Productions.
Joseph LiMandri, Jr. Photo by David Vae Vang/Noiseless Productions.

 

Joseph LiMandri Jr.

Age: 15.

Current home: Garden City, New York.

Current height/weight: 5’6”/118 pounds.

Current school grade level: 9th grade.

Began riding at age: 5 years.

First road race: 2012, NJMiniGP, Millville, New Jersey, Spec 50 Class, 4thplace.

Current racebike: Kawasaki Ninja 400.

Current tuner/mechanic: Joseph LiMandri, Sr. (father).

Primary race series: MotoAmerica Junior Cup.

Top sponsors: N2 Trackdays, Evolve GT, Cybersafe Solutions, Heroic Racing Apparel, Arai, Scott Powersports, Metric Devil Moto, Cycle Gear, Precision Autoworks, Vortex Racing, LI Racing, Orient Express.

Recent racing accomplishments: 2019 season, finished 5th in MotoAmerica Junior Cup race at VIR, injured for most of 2019 season; 2018 season, won 3 CCS Regional Championships, placed 2nd in 3 other CCS Regional Championships, 21 race wins, 29 podium finishes.

2020 racing goal: Finish on the podium in MotoAmerica Junior Cup rounds.

Racing career goal: Become a professional racer, compete at the World Championship level.

Racing hero: Valentino Rossi.

Favorite track: Pittsburgh International Race Complex

Favorite hobby: Riding bicycles.

If I wasn’t racing I would be…: Playing football.

MRA Cancels Opening Round, Appoints New Treasurer

MRA racers Ryan Burke (1) and Sean Thomas (52) in action. Photo by Brandon Wren, courtesy of MRA.
MRA racers Ryan Burke (1) and Sean Thomas (52) in action. Photo by Brandon Wren, courtesy of MRA.

MRA appoints Tiffany Maestas as treasurer; Cancels first race weekend

Denver, CO – The Motorcycle Roadracing Association filled a
vacancy left by a retiring treasurer and announced the cancellation of the
first race weekend at High Plains Raceway originally scheduled for May
16-17.

Tiffany Maestas will succeed Laci Lukachy as the MRA treasurer and member of
the Board of Directors.  Tiffany is a current Motorcycle Safety Foundation
certified lead rider coach & instructor, a certified Harley-Davidson Riding
Academy coach and a longtime MRA road racer.  Her background in finance and
purchasing with the Gates Corporation will be highly beneficial to the
financial stability of the MRA.  The MRA wishes Laci and her husband Mike
Lukachy (owner of Quikcycles in Denver) all the best in their new racing
adventures in South Carolina.

 

Tiffany Maestas, MRA's new treasurer. Photo courtesy of MRA.
Tiffany Maestas, MRA’s new treasurer. Photo courtesy of MRA.

As are many states, Colorado is under a stay-at-home advisory during the
COVID-19 situation.   The uncertainty caused by this situation has prompted
the MRA to make the tough decision of cancelling the first round of racing
which would have been on May 16-17.  Late in March, the MRA also cancelled
its New Racers’ School for similar reasons.  The MRA Board of Directors is
monitoring the situation and decisions for future race events will be
announced as soon as possible.

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

MotoAmerica: Mini Cup By Motul Registration Now Open

Ohvale has been named as the official motorcycle of the MotoAmerica Mini Cup by Motul. Photo courtesy of MotoAmerica.
The MotoAmerica Mini Cup by Motul is scheduled for three rounds in 2020. Photo courtesy MotoAmerica.

Entries Open For MotoAmerica Mini Cup By Motul

Inaugural Series Begins May 30 At Road America

IRVINE, CA (April 15, 2020) – MotoAmerica has announced that entries are now open for the inaugural, three-round MotoAmerica Mini Cup by Motul. In addition, the rulebook and teambooks are also available.

Entries are now open for the inaugural 2020 MotoAmerica Mini Cup by Motul.
Entries for the Motul Mini Cup by Motul races will be $175 for Saturday with options available for Friday practice.

The Mini Cup Series will feature four classes of racing: 110cc (four speed); 160cc; 190cc (racers aged up to 14 years); and 190cc Adult (racers over the age of 15). The motorcycles will be based on spec rules centered around the Ohvale GP-0, a mini road racer that is now ready for the U.S. market after proving to be extremely popular in Europe.

The MotoAmerica Mini Cup fills a current void in the series and provides an entry point for riders under the age of 14. The Mini Cup will give young racers a way to bridge the gap to the MotoAmerica Liqui Moly Junior Cup class through the MotoAmerica Mini Cup and “The Road To MotoAmerica.”

“It’s going to be exciting to watch the entries come in as the season rapidly approaches,” said Lance Bryson, MotoAmerica’s Senior Sponsorship Manager. “Based on the response the MotoAmerica Mini Cup by Motul has received, we’re expecting big things and a lot of entries in our first season. It’s going to be a great year to be involved in the series.”

For more information on the MotoAmerica Mini Cup by Motul Series, including entry and rulebook information, visit http://www.motoamericaregistration.com/2020-mini-cup-info/

 

The 2020 AMA MotoAmerica Mini Cup Series

May 29-31 – Road America, Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin

August 7-8 – Pittsburgh International Race Complex, Wampum, Pennsylvania

August 28-30 – The Ridge Motorsports Park, Sheldon, Washington

 

For the full 2020 MotoAmerica Series schedule, click HERE

To purchase tickets to any of the 2020 series rounds, click HERE

For information on how to watch the 2020 MotoAmerica Series, click HERE

 

About MotoAmerica

MotoAmerica is the North American road racing series created in 2014 that is home to the AMA Superbike Championship. MotoAmerica is an affiliate of KRAVE Group LLC, a partnership that includes three-time 500cc World Champion, two-time AMA Superbike Champion, and AMA Hall of Famer Wayne Rainey, ex-racer and former manager of Team Roberts Chuck Aksland, motorsports marketing executive Terry Karges, and businessman Richard Varner. For more information on MotoAmerica, visit www.MotoAmerica.com. Also make sure to follow MotoAmerica on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.