To fully experience it, Legends Track Days at SERRES offers you, for the 3rd time, an exceptional stay in GREECE from October 5 to 12, 2020, with the legends of the TOURIST TROPHY. And for the 1st time, the presence of sidecars.
On the program, boat crossing from ANCONA to IGOUMENITSA, a luxurious hotel close to the circuit and three days of riding on the superb circuit of SERRES, located in the north of GREECE.
A stay that mixes riding, exceptional encounters and relaxation.
All of this in a country where the sun is king.
A simple and unique concept
Thanks to the close links forged with the motorcycle riders, Arnaldo WITTEMBERG, right hand man of Giacomo AGOSTINI, organizes, under the banner of Legends Track Days at SERRES, TRACK DAYS on circuits, with the presence of the legends of the Continental Circus and the Tourist Trophy.
Stars just for you
They make you dream! On their own, they totalize 49 TOURIST TROPHY wins, the famous ISLE OF MAN road race.
Well, these exceptional riders, John McGUINNESS, Ian HUTCHINSON, Ben and Tom BIRCHALL will travel with you and better, they will ride by your side, eat with you, sleep in the same hotels and attend the same briefings.
A unique and exceptional event
“Legends Track Days at SERRES” is open to motorcyclists who want to ride on track with legendary riders in a safe environment.
We accept classic and modern motorcycles as well as, and for the first time, sidecars are accepted. Participants, either beginners, experienced or confirmed, will find their place in the groups that we form according to their experience.
Legendary riders will be delighted to ride with all groups. This is a great opportunity for participants to experience unforgettable moments with these riders with remarkable track records. And why not make a baptism, as a passenger, in a sidecar ridden by Ben BIRCHALL?
Motorcycle enthusiasts who wish to accompany us and who, even if they do not ride on a circuit, want to discover GREECE, are welcome.
Personalized prices
Several options are possible (vehicle, trailer, cabins, rooms, boxes, etc.).
We calculate the price as precisely as possible.
Of course, the accompanying persons are not forgotten. We have a special package for them.
Want to be part of the legend?
Register at www.legendsontrack.com and we will send you the price of your trip. Please note that the number of participants is limited, registrations are made in the order of arrival of the entry forms.
Australia has successfully defended the International Challenge winning the three-nation battle for historic bikes at Phillip Island’s Grand Prix circuit today at the Island Classic, with the locals’ 704 point haul securing victory over rivals America (691 points) and the UK third with 423 points.
Albury’s Alex Phillis was the star performer – claiming two wins, a second and a third across the four six lap races – to lead the Australian effort and be awarded the best individual performer on the grid aboard his Suzuki 1260. He won the Ken Wootton trophy with his 157 point haul (2-1-1-3), an early birthday present for the racer who turns 26 tomorrow.
Just behind was Melbourne polesitter Jed Metcher who produced four podium places (3-2-2-2) on his Yamaha FJ to amass 155 points, racing at the front of the pack throughout the meet to make a major contribution to the Australian victory.
But it was far from an easy Australia Day victory, with the Americans taking it to the Aussies in every race. Their major nemesis was Californian ace Josh Hayes – a multi AMA champ – who at 43, still possesses the speed and competitive grit that has seen him amass 83 career wins across many classes over a brilliant motorcycling career.
Alex Phillis (20) won overall with 157 points, one point ahead of Jed Metcher (22) and two points clear of Josh Hayes (4). Photo by Russell Colvin/Courtesy Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit.
Hayes had his work cut out from him for the literal start – thanks to engine issues in qualifying relegating him to grid position 7 for each race and a testing third row start.
It was only his second visit to Phillip Island, but he came out fighting early to win the first race and capped off the weekend with victory in the fourth battle. In race two and three, he campaigned at the front and returned a 5th and a 3rd to be the top performing American and finish with an individual tally of 154 points.
Phillis, son of multiple Australian champ, Robbie Phillis was thrilled with his Individual Ken Wootton win, as well as the national victory for the Rex Wolfenden led team.
“It’s a huge privilege to win it. I remember Ken at the track from when I was running around as a 4 year old, he would always be there. It’s crazy to come away with something like this!,” said Phillis.
“I’ve been to this event every single year since 2006 since dad was riding, I’ve only ridden three times and every year we’ve had a chance at the overall, and last year we came close with 3rd, but honestly I wanted it really bad and it showed in my riding. It’s awesome to come here and win such a prize.”
While the Australians took the win at their home circuit, congratulations also went to the Dave Crussell captained Americans. Some had never experienced the demanding Australian track and were learning its high speed demands and fast-flowing corners as the weekend went on.
Backing Hayes aboard the Mojo Yamahas were the impressive efforts of Californian road tester Michael Gilbert (7-6-7-4), Ohio racer Larry Pegram (4-3-6-14), Canadian champion Jordan Szoke (11-8-10-5) and Alabama’s Taylor Knapp (8-9-9-8). They consistently raced in the top ten and filled positions fifth to eight in the Ken Wootton tally.
American Michael Gilbert (55) rounded out the top five overall with 140 points to his name. Photo by Russell Colvin/Courtesy Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit.Steve Martin (99), seen battling Americans Larry Pegram (72), Michael Gilbert (55), Taylor Knapp (44) and Josh Hayes (4), finished the weekend in fourth place. Photo by Russell Colvin/Courtesy Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit.American Taylor Knapp (44) was seven points down from Pegram, finishing in eighth. Photo by Russell Colvin/Courtesy Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit.American Melissa Paris (13) rode Robert Ruwoldt’s spare Harris F1 Kawasaki in Race Three after her TZ750 seized the piston in cylinder #2 and highsided her when she was wide-open in 4th gear. “Very pleased with my Mithos Tech Air suit,” Paris told Roadracing World via e-mail. Photo by Russell Colvin/Courtesy Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit.
On either side sat Australians, 2019 winner Steve Martin on his Katana who took fourth overall (5-4-4-7), and rounding out the top ten Vincent Irving rider Beau Beaton and veteran Shawn Giles on the Suzuki Katana.
Australian David Johnson, the 2018 winner, had a weekend he would prefer to forget and only completed the first race with a 6th, before mechanical problems produced DNF’s in race two and three and no start in race four.
The best performer for the Tony Hart captained UK squad was Brendan Wilson (Suzuki Harris) who finished the weekend in 12th overall, with Damien Kavney 15th and Roger Gunn in 16th both on Suzukis.
Race Three
Saturday’s front-runners continued to dominate with Australia’s Alex Phillis winning race three on his Suzuki ahead of Jed Metcher, with America’s Josh Hayes in third.
Polesitter Metcher won the start and while struggling somewhat with the front end of his Yamaha, led for the first four laps, while the melee settled behind him.
Phillis on the other hand, had a lousy start off the front-row and was pushed back to sixth by the end of the first lap.
In front of him lay Metcher, former enduro champ Steve Martin and the formidable American trio of Larry Pegram, Josh Hayes and Michael Gilbert on their Mojo Yamahas.
Despite gearbox problems and some light rain mid-race Phillis slowly ticked them off, and by the end of lap three it was a Metcher/Phillis battle at the front with Hayes in pursuit. Phillis took the lead going into turn three, with Metcher biting back to once again take control. Phillis though had the top speed advantage, and took the lead on Gardner Straight to head the final laps to the flag and cross .077 in front of Metcher and seize 40 points for the Australians .
“We got a false neutral off the start and our gearbox isn’t too bad but every half the race I was jumping out of gear out of turn four and we struggled a bit,” said Phillis.
“But to have the guys in front…. it sort of put a target on their back and gave me the edge I needed to find the pace fast and early in the race.
“So we came from far back. If you want to win, you got to have the motivation to get there,” said Phillis.
Race Four
With no sign of rain, race four was an epic final battle in the sun. Metcher won the start and led at the end of lap one. Rather than Phillis who was struggling with gearbox issues, it was Metcher and Hayes that set the pace. Hayes took the lead on lap two, and despite the badgering of Metcher and Phillis, added the race four victory to his race one win and to finish the weekend with two victories, a third and a fifth.
“I knew with the sun coming out it played a little bit of an advantage for tyres with us in the Dunlop’s, and finally I got a pretty decent run off line and didn’t let Jed just go. I wasn’t trying to play catch-up for the whole race, being able to get up close to him right off the bat, I thought if I could push and pressure the pace for race distance, every lap works in my favour a little bit,” said Hayes after the final win.
“I made a few mistakes late in the race and they got back a little close to me, but I was just trying to be steady and just hit my marks and fortunately we had a clean race. We had four great races and I really enjoyed riding in them, with the boys (Alex & Jed) all of us together, all weekend, every race, it was so much fun! It’s good to leave on a high note!”
Historic Racing Across All Eras
Honouring a century of motorcycling in three action-packed days, the 27th International Island Classic, is one of the world’s great historic bike meets.
In addition to the three-nation International Challenge battle over four races, the Island Classic featured 50 races with nearly 400 solo machines racing across the six historic categories: Veteran (up to 1919), Vintage (1920-1945), Classic (1946-1962), Post Classic (1963-1972), Forgotten Era (1973-1982) and New Era (1983-1990). Each class will compete in five races.
The winner of the Phil Irving Trophy was NSW racer, Keo Watson who returned a perfect score card 250 points – five wins in the 500 Forgotten Era class on his 1981 Yamaha and 500 wins in the 250cc New Era Production class via his 1990 Honda.
For all times go to www.computime.com.au
For information on the 27th International Island Classic at Phillip Island, held Jan 24-26 2020, go to www.islandclassic.com.au
International Challenge – National points
Australia, 704 points
America, 691 points
United Kingdom, 423 points
Individual – Ken Wootton Memorial Trophy For Highest Individual Point Scorer
5. #99 Steven MARTIN (AUS) 1982 Sukuki Katana 1294, 9:57.154, -4.405
6. #3 David JOHNSON (AUS) 1982 Suzuki Katana 1100, 10:01.207, -8.458
International Island Classic: Rider Quotes After Sunday’s Races
American Josh Hayes After Race 3
“It was a tough race, I was a bit of a slow starter this morning so that definitely hurt me and Jed got out there pretty far and Larry (Pegram) rode good for a few laps. It took me a little while with Steve (Martin), and Larry (Pegram) and Michael Gilbert, and a handful of guys there in the beginning. When I got to 2nd, I was just taking such little pieces out of Jed (Metcher) and then I couldn’t believe how fast Alex (Phillis) went by, I was like ‘S— that guy must be doing 35s as fast as he went by me!’ He just rode right up to him, and again they got together and brought me back a little bit, racing up with each other. When we got the mist in too, I was having this real internal battle, because I wanted to get in there and I wanted to win that race (Race 3) so bad, but I didn’t feel like with the cooler temperatures my bike was quite where I wanted it to be like it was yesterday; so you start thinking about the team aspect and a 3rd is a lot better than me screwing up. I was a little too cautious, and they did give me a chance to get back in it, but I just played my cards a little too cautious and ruined a good opportunity; hopefully the sun will come back out and we can work hard for it again.
“It’s hard to say (about the Aussie competition) because I think based on last year there are some other guys; that this could be a 5-way battle, if Aaron Morris had just as a steady week, if Davo Johnson, it would be even more guys up there. There’s nothing wrong with the level of the competition on either side. I still feel like our guys are learning and if we brought back that same crew, we’re going to be another step up. If feel like if this were a precursor for next year, it’s going to be a barn burner of a lot of bikes going really fast lap times.”
Josh Hayes After Race 4 Win
“I knew with the sun coming out it played a little bit of an advantage for tires with us on the Dunlops, and finally I got a pretty decent run off the line and didn’t let Jed (Metcher just go) and I wasn’t trying to play catch-up for the whole race. Being able to get up close to him right off the bat, I thought if I could push and pressure the pace for race distance, every lap works in my favor a little bit. I made a few mistakes late in the race and they got back a little closer to me, but I was just trying to be steady and just hit my marks and fortunately we had a clean race. We had four great races and I really enjoyed riding in them, with the boys (Alex & Jed) all of us together, all weekend, every race, it was so much fun! It’s good to leave on a high note!”
Australian Alex Phillis After Race 3 Win
“I felt good…we got a false neutral off the start and our gearbox isn’t too bad but every half the race I was jumping out of gear out of Turn 4 and we struggled a bit, but to have the guys in front it sort of put a target on their back and gave me the edge I needed to find the pace fast and early in the race. So we came from far back and up to the front and there was no exceptions. If you want to win, you got to have the motivation to get there. I’m happy and we still have one more to go, it’s not over yet, but it’s nice to get one out of the way.”
Alex Phillis, Ken Wootton Memorial Trophy Winner After Taking 3rd In Race 4
“We dropped off a little bit, I think we ruined the gearbox a bit in the previous race, so we got away. Jed and Josh were certainly setting the pace, I didn’t find it as easy as the last ones. Mid-race we sort of got ourselves in a good position, but the gearbox was well and truly let go…a few mishaps. I thought better off to let the other guys try run with it when it got to the end, we worked ourselves into a good gap and I was pretty confident I would still get the overall, really happy and so much fun and a great weekend!
“It’s a huge privilege to win the overall; I remember Ken at the track from when I was running around as a 4-5 year old, he would always be there. It’s crazy to come away with something like this! I’ve been to this event every single year since 2006 since Dad (Robbie Phillis) was riding. I’ve only ridden three times and every year we’ve had a chance at the overall, and last year we came close with 3rd, but honestly I wanted it really bad and it showed in my riding. It’s awesome to come here and win such a prize like the Ken Wootton Perpetual.”
Australian Jed Metcher After Race 3
“We’re still struggling with the bike, still struggling with the front end. I didn’t really start that strong, I think the other boys might have been battling or something, so I got a few laps out of there on my own. We’ve still got a bit of work to do to get really confident on it, but I felt a lot more consistent then (in Race 3) with the apexes and so on. It was interesting when Al (Alex Phillis) came past, it started raining, so we had to back off a little bit. The last lap was quite slow and I tried to hold him up to beat him to the line, but he is doing a really good job and he is riding well. Had a good race, had good fun and hopefully in the next one I can get a win.”
Jed Metcher After Finishing 2nd In Race 4 & 2nd Overall
“Just struggled with the front confidence and we’re down only probably 10 horsepower to the other guys which was pretty clear there as it got on. Very happy with the weekend, had an absolute ball, dicing with guys like Al Phillis and Josh Hayes is pretty humbling. Very happy that the Aussies won, it’s two years in a row that I have now been involved, since I’ve been in the classic, we haven’t won it all that much. Rex, Buck, Dad and Pauly did an awesome job and all the sponsors did a fantastic job. Hopefully we can come back stronger next year and win the whole lot, that’s the plan!”
Canadian Jordan Szoke (Riding With American Team) After Race 3
“It’s amazing (Phillip Island) and I never want to go home! When you get to go around here, and if you look where we are, obviously the ocean is right there, it is so beautiful. The fans are amazing, and everyone is so friendly, in the paddock, and then they all just want to win on the track. I’m making steps, the last race there (Race 3) I made a few little mistakes battling with Taylor (Knapp), and then it started to rain, and I have never ridden around here in the rain on slicks, and I don’t know what it’s like so I thought I’d roll out of it a little and I wasn’t going for the win so I was like be smart. But I really had a lot of fun yesterday when it was beautiful and sunny, Race 2 was really really enjoyable for me and I hope I get to come back.”
Rex Wolfenden (Team Australia Captain)
“I feel terrific! Feel really relieved! It was very close, and the Americans have got a good team, and they were a bit closer than I would have thought. We lost a few guys, and we were really nervous right up to the last race and we fortunately have got home!”
AUSTRALIA LEADS TEAM AMERICA BY A WHISKER IN THE 2020 INTERNATIONAL CHALLENGE AT PHILLIP ISLAND
Only three points separates Australia and Team America (351-348) after day one of racing in the three-nation International Challenge at Phillip Island’s historic bike meet, the Island Classic, with California’s multi-AMA champ Josh Hayes scoring victory in race one and Melbourne’s Alex Phillis winning race two.
Aboard his 1980 Suzuki 1260, 26-year-old Phillis was the player of the day, taking second in race one and winning race two to lead the Ken Wootton Memorial Trophy battle on 79 points; with Melbourne’s Jed Metcher (Yamaha) clocking 3-2 finishes to finish second overall on 77 points; with American gun Hayes just a point behind (76) with his race one victory and a fifth place in race two aboard the Mojo Yamaha.
Other solid performances came from America’s Larry Pegram (4-3), Michael Gilbert(7-6), Taylor Knapp (8-9) and Jordan Szoke (11-8) to bolster the US tally; while Australia also saw good point hauls for 2019 winner, Steve Martin (5-4) and Beau Beaton(9-11). 2018 winner and Australian hope, Adelaide’s David Johnson, struggled with brake problems to return a sixth in race one but retired to the pits in race two.
The UK team saw Brendan Wilson lead the British charge. He sits in 12th position overall with compatriot Roger Gunn, the second best performer, in 15th with the team amassing 213 points overall.
International Challenge action did not start so well when a lap one crash at Southern Loop saw UK riders Michael Neeves and Brendan Wilson and Australia’s Scott Webster, John Allen and Craig Ditchburn go down, with Ditchburn’s 1978 Yamaha on fire.
The race was red-flagged, and only Wilson managed to make the restart while the others retreated to the pits for hasty repairs to machinery in an effort to make race two.
At the restart it was Phillis who led the field with locals Metcher and Martin, but Hayes showed his class from the word go. Despite starting from position seven after engine issues in qualifying, he was sitting fifth by the end of lap one and bearing down on the front-runners.
By lap two he was in second and then it became a battle between the young Phillis and the experienced Hayes, with the Californian taking the lead on lap four to the flag to pip the Aussie at the post.
Behind was Metcher in third, Pegram in fourth, Martin in fifth and Johnson in sixth.
“I’m actually kinda surprised,” said Hayes after his race one victory. “We’ve had a few troubles and setbacks here and on that first start I was back a little further than the start. So when we did the re-start, I just got a clean one, and just kinda bided my time and tried.
“Six laps isn’t a lot of time but I was just trying to see where I had the opportunity and I got a big draught and I got two of them of the front straight.”
Alex Phillip (20) won Race Two Saturday at the International Island Classic at Phillip Island. Photo by Russell Colvin, courtesy of Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit.
In race two, Phillis took charge at the start, but the battle intensified mid-race with Metcher and Hayes both taking the lead before the American pulled a false neutral going into turn four and then ran off the track. Phillis took the race two flag in front of Metcher, with Martin third, Pegram fourth and Hayes fifth.
“It’s good to get it (a win) this early in the weekend,” said Phillis who also won an International Challenge race in 2017. “Obviously it gives us a huge up in the scheme of the points, so it gives us breathing room to the next races.
“It’s still tough out there, it’s hard to carry the lead pace, but really easy to follow I find. So I sort of sat behind Jed (Metcher) for a while and I’ve got the horsepower to pass, so I knew without mucking around too much, I’m better to sit behind for a lap then attack (Josh) Hayes, but then fortunately (Josh) Hayes ran off and made it pretty easy for us.”
Hayes was also happy with his fifth. “Man, that was probably race I was most proud of,” he said post race-two. “To have that little gap that I had to close and Jed and Alex were riding so good and I was watching them battling, and I didn’t really know where I was making time, other than they were battling each other up a little bit.
“Salvaging fifth out of that race isn’t too bad. I just hate it for my team mates because I rode a good race and I was so pumped about being able to get to the front, but it’s how the ball bounces.”
The International Challenge continues tomorrow with two six-lap races to determine the crown for best nation and individual competitors. Now in its 16th year, Australia has won the Challenge on 12 occasions and is the defending champion.
The new-look UK team is finding their feet, but was given a blow today when Neeves, on his Carl Cox-prepared Suzuki Harris, crashed early and missed race one. He managed a 15th in race two.
Over 20 races were held today at the Island Classic, one of the world’s leading historic bike meets, with racing from nearly 400 bikes from the Veteran class of the early 1900s through to Forgotten Era and New Era machines.
Apart from the International Challenge trophy, riders are racing for individual accolades – with the Ken Wootton Memorial Trophy for the most successful International Challenge rider, plus the Phil Irving Perpetual Trophy, awarded to the rider who accrues the most points outside of International Challenge races.
Gates open at 8:00am Sunday for Island Classic historic racing at Phillip Island, with tickets available at the gate. Children 15 and under are free, if accompanied by a full-paying adults.
Motorcycling Australia (MA) are proud to announce lubricants giant Motul will continue its long-term partnership with the 2020 mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship (ASBK) as the Presented by Partner.
The Motul and ASBK association has been in place since 2015 and further cements Motul’s continued commitment to developing motorcycle racing.
Motul is synonymous with motorsport both nationally and internationally and the brand is a perfect fit for the ASBK, which is becoming one of the world’s top domestic motorcycle racing championships.
Motul Oils pioneered the formulation of a 100% synthetic lubricant for automotive engines back in 1971. Since then Motul has gained experience by being the official supplier for many major teams in international competitions including the MotoGP World Championship, FIM Superbike World Championship, 24 Hours of Le Mans and FIM Motocross World Championship.
Having sponsors such as Motul further strengthens the championship, and if 2019 is anything to go by the Superbike, Supersport, Supersport 300, YMF R3 Cup, and Oceania Junior Cup classes will all go down to the wire in 2020.
MA CEO, Peter Doyle said the ASBK was thrilled to have Motul as the Presented by sponsor.
“Motorcycling Australia is ecstatic that our strong relationship with Link International – distributors of Motul lubricants, Pirelli tyres, and AGV helmets, continues in 2020,” Mr Doyle said.
“Both Motul and the ASBK share the same vision; we are both passionate about Australian motorcycle sport.
“We have grown the ASBK over the past five years and expanded our national and international audience and fan base, and we are pleased Motul have been a valued partner from the outset.”
Link International long-time General Manager, Brenden Stoeckert, is also delighted to remain involved with the ASBK saying, “as a company, Link International has been importing Motul motorcycle oils for 30 years and we’ve also been involved in the support of motorcycle racing with Motorcycling Australia for decades”.
“So, it’s natural that with the ever-improving ASBK Championships we’d be throwing our support behind MA again for 2020.
“We’re looking forward to close fought racing and being involved in the wonderful spectacle the ASBK brings to motorcycle sport.”
The mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance ASBK Championship presented by Motul hits the track at the Official ASBK Test at Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit next week.
2020 ASBK Calendar
Official ASBK Test – Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, VIC January 29-30
Round 1: WorldSBK – Phillip Island, VIC February 27-March 1
Round 2: Wakefield Park, NSW March 27-29
Round 3: The Bend, SA May 7-10
Round 4: Barbagallo Raceway, WA May 15-17
Official ASBK Test – Morgan Park, QLD July 28-29
Round 5: Morgan Park, QLD August 7-9
Round 6: Winton Motorsport Park, QLD September 11-13
Round 7: Phillip Island GP Circuit, VIC October 2-4
Head to www.asbk.com.au for more info about the Australian Superbike Championship. For the latest updates from the ASBK, follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
Todd Schuster, a master fabricator involved from the starting days of AMA Superbike, died today, January 24th, at Pascack Valley Hospital in Westwood, New Jersey. He was 76.
Schuster worked with Udo Gietl on the Butler & Smith BMW AMA Superbike team in 1976, on Ron Pierce’s BMW AMA Superbike in 1977, on John Long’s BMW AMA Superbike program in 1978, and on American Honda’s AMA Superbike and F1 program in 1980-1987. Schuster was well-known for fabricating everything from oversized fuel tank modifications to frame and swingarm modifications, to special parts.
He is survived by a cousin.
May he rest in peace.
(Above) Another shot of Todd Schuster with Ron Pierce’s BMW R90S AMA Superbike, at Loudon, New Hampshire in 1977. Photo by John Owens, Copyright 2020, all rights reserved.
Rollercoaster testing week ends at Portimao for WorldSBK
The start of the season is now on the horizon, although there’s plenty of work for the 2020 WorldSBK line-up to be cracking on with in Portugal
After a rain-affected WorldSBK test at the Circuito de Jerez – Angel Nieto, it is time to head west to Portugal, and the Autodromo do Internacional Algarve and Portimao for testing from the 26th and 27th January. The second test in January will be the final time we get to see most of the bikes on-track at once before the Phillip Island test the week before the first round, meaning that there will be plenty to keep our eyes on as the new season gets nearer.
Portimao came onto the calendar in 2008 and has been a favourite for the riders ever since, with its dramatic undulations, fast straights, sweeping bends and technical sectors. The factors combined make for the perfect testing circuit and with KRT absent, the ARUBA.IT Racing – Ducati squad will be keen to get some running in. Scott Redding and teammate Chaz Davies had contrasting Jerez tests; Redding was quick and constantly in the top three, whilst Davies crashed twice within in the morning of day one. With dry running expected, the next two days will be critical for a valid insight into the 2020 season.
Since their comeback to WorldSBK as a factory manufacturer in 2016, Yamaha haven’t enjoyed such a strong pre-season. The PATA YAMAHA WORLDSBK OFFICIAL TEAM have been a constant threat to Kawasaki and Ducati and have packed out the leading positions across numerous tests. Michael van der Mark and Toprak Razgatlioglu looked to be the riders to beat at Jerez at various points and will now get to bring their 2020 engine and 2020 Yamahas to Portimao, a track both riders took podiums at in 2019.
In what has so far been a quiet pre-season, the BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team will also be present at Portimao and look to really shine through with the sun expected. Tom Sykes and Eugene Laverty have both enjoyed strong results at the track before and with plenty to test, both are anticipated more positives across Sunday and Monday. Having stated back at the Jerez test that focus needs to go on the engine, Eugene Laverty will be looking for more power in Portugal, whilst both he and Tom Sykes will continue working through their schedule regarding which chassis to use.
They topped day one at Jerez and had an equally positive second day, but the HRC Team will now take to the Portimao circuit and continue their 2020 pre-season testing programme. Whilst exactly what they are testing has been kept under wraps, the bike has already come out of the box in a competitive nature. Leon Haslam was a regular fixture inside the top three over the Jerez test, whilst Alvaro Bautista enjoyed top ten pace despite a small crash. Can the perform well again at Portimao?
With no KRT squad, attention turns to the Independent riders; an impressive Jerez test for the GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Junior Team gives them plenty to shout about going to Portugal. Federico Caricasulo won in WorldSSP at the track last season and despite suffering a tricky last day of testing at Jerez, he will be eager to get some dry running in warmer conditions under his belt. For Garrett Gerloff, the American will simply be looking to get good track running in dry conditions ahead of the first action at Phillip Island. Loris Baz (Ten Kate Racing – Yamaha) will also be determined to continue his great start to 2020, making incremental steps with the 2020 Yamaha YZF R1.
In terms of the Independent Kawasaki teams, there’s plenty to watch out for as ORELAC Racing VERDNATURA and Kawasaki Puccetti Racing take to the circuit. For the Valencian-based Orelac squad, Chilean rookie Maximilian Scheib will look to carry on bedding in to the WorldSBK paddock. He will be the first rider from Chile to start a full season of WorldSBK, with the adaptation to the ZX-10RR still ongoing. For Puccetti, Xavi Fores will be on Kawasaki machinery for the first time in 2020, having not taking part in the Jerez test. It will be the first time he will have raced a four-cylinder WorldSBK machine in 9 years and will aim to get crucial dry weather running under his belt before Phillip Island.
There are four Independent Ducati teams taking to the Portimao circuit across the two days, starting with the Barni Racing Team heading into the test off the back of little track action at Jerez. The Italian squad are keen to shine in Portugal with Sandro Cortese heading out to ride for the team, whilst Leon Camier will be in attendance and if fit enough, out on the Ducati Panigale V4 R. For Leandro Mercado (Motocorsa Racing), he will aim to continue acclimatising to his Ducati Panigale V4 R and achieve his bid of top ten success in 2020. On the fringes of the top ten at Jerez, the former STK1000 Champion is shooting high in the Algarve.
The other two Ducati teams include Team GOELEVEN and Brixx Performance. Michael Ruben Rinaldi (Team GOELEVEN) suffered a crash at the Jerez test on day one, hindering his progress. At Portimao, the team will work together to try and understand Rinaldi’s riding style, so they can make changes accordingly. Frenchman Sylvain Barrier (Brixx Performance) is relishing the opportunity of being back on the world stage and with a good team behind him, Barrier is far from feeling the pressure. He will continue the shakedown of his Ducati Panigale V4 R in order to be in the mix for positive performances come the start of the season.
WorldSSP: Testing turns to thrilling Portimao
Big names in WorldSSP are joined by the welcome return of 2004 and 2007 WorldSBK Champion James Toseland, who comes back to the paddock as team manager
The 2020 FIM Supersport World Championship promises to bring more thrilling, fair-bashing action across 13 rounds from all over the World. However, prior to this is the testing season, where the teams and riders get together to familiarise themselves with new bikes and regulations, whilst others try to perfect the packages they already have. Four teams will be in action across the two days in order to improve their packages ahead of the 2020 WorldSSP season.
Starting with the Champions, the BARDAHL Evan Bros. WorldSSP Team and their sole entrant for 2020 Andrea Locatelli will hope to be in action. The team were scheduled to ride at the Jerez test, but inclement weather meant they packed up earlier and headed to Almeria. Locatelli needs crucial miles and with the new regulations stipulating that slick tyres will be used for the first time in WorldSSP, there’s more than just new parts to try out. The former Moto3™ podium finisher has been one of the biggest profiles to come into World Supersport and will look to give the BARDAHL Evan Bros. WorldSSP Team a second teams’ title in as many seasons.
One of the most successful teams in WorldSSP are PTR Honda, rebranded this season as Dynavolt Honda; Simon Buckmaster’s squad picking up new sponsorship for their 2020 World Supersport campaign. With 18 race wins to the team’s name, Hikari Okubo and Patrick Hobelsberger will be in action at Portimao and eager to get to grips with the CBR600RR. The team were consistent top ten runners in 2019 and will hope to move up and challenge for the top six as 2020 unfolds, especially given Okubo’s podium-threatening pace last year.
GMT94 Yamaha had an incredibly strong end to 2019, with Jules Cluzel winning at San Juan and securing a strong podium finish at Losail. Three wins for the 31-year-old three-time WorldSSP runner-up still wasn’t enough to give him the title in 2019 and he will be hoping that the turn of the decade brings luck his way. His teammate for a second season is the flamboyant Corentin Perolari (GMT94 Yamaha), who took his first pole in Argentina. He ended 2019 strongly and with the right amount of testing, he could be a real threat to the title.
The final team that will be testing from the WorldSSP field is the WRP Wepol Racing squad, a new addition to the grid this season. Featuring the only British rider in the field – Danny Webb – the team is managed by double World Superbike Champion, James Toseland. Toseland is back in the paddock at Portimao, a track he raced at only once in 2010. For rider Danny Webb, it is a big opportunity back on the world stage, with him clinching the International Road Racing Championship (IRRC) in 2018.
With plenty to be expected, tested and reviewed, the World Supersport field for 2020 is one of the biggest and best in recent seasons, with 17 nationalities ready to do battle. Add into the mix rookies, new regulations and new circuits, it looks set to be an all-out battle for the entirety of the season.
Catch all the riders’ reactions and more on our WorldSBK social channels and at WorldSBK.com.
Jed Metcher, Australia (1984 Yam FJ1200), 1:37.248
Alex Phillis, New Zealand (1980 Suz XR69 1100), 1:37.354
Steve Martin, Australia (1982 Suz Katana 1294), 1:37.870
David Johnson, Australia (1982 Suz Katana 1100), 1:38.260
Aaron Morris, Australia (1980 Suz Katana 1300), 1:38.266
Larry Pegram, USA (1983 Yam CMR FJ1250), 1:38.388
Josh Hayes, USA (1983 CMR FJ1250), 1:38.575
Michael Gilbert, USA (1983 Yam CMR FJ1250), 1:38.966
Shawn Giles, Australia (1982 Suz Katana 1294), 1:39.152
Beau Beaton, Australia (1982 Irving Vincent 1300), 1:39.344
Taylor Knapp, USA (1983 Yam CMR FJ1250), 1:39.513
Craig Ditchburn, Australia (1978 Yam TZ750), 1:39.688
Jordan Szoke, Canada (1983 Yam CMR FJ1250), 1:40.597
Cameron Donald, Australia (1982 Irving Vincent 1300), 1:41.152
John Allen, Australia (1978 Yam OW31 750), 1:41.736
Brendan Wilson, Australia (1980 Harris Suz 1170), 1:43.729
Michael Neeves, UK (1984 Harris Suz 1230), 1:44.301
Scott Webster, Australia (1982 Harris Suz 1200), 1:45.498
Jorge Guerrero, USA (1982 Suz XR69 1200), 1:46.523
Joe Pethoud, USA (1984 Harris Yam 1250), 1:47.066
Dave Crussell, USA (1978 Yam TZ750), 1:47.436
Damein Kavney, Australia (1982 Suz XR69 1260), 1:48.174
Robert Ruwoldt, Australia (1980 Harris Kaw 1200), 1:48.324
Melissa Paris, USA (1978 Yam TZ750), 1:48.325
Alexander Sinclair, UK (1982 Suz XR69 1080), 1:48.884
Brian Filo, USA (1978 Kaw Z1 1260), 1:49.782
Roger Gunn, Aiustralia (1982 Harris F1 1170), 1:49.842
Tony Hart, UK (1982 Harris Suz 1085), 1:49.911
Richard Peers-John, UK (1979 Yam TZG 347), 1:51.992
Hasse Gustafson, Sweden (1972 Duc 750), 1:52.012
James Agombar, Australia (1978 Yam TZ750), 1:52.784
Richard Llewellin, UK (1982 Duc TT-F1 750), 1:53.679
Laurie Fyffe, Australia (1980 Suz GSX1166), 1:54.198
Johnny Nordberg, Sweden (1972 Duc V2 Imola 748), 1:54.572
Bruce Lind, USA (1975 Yam TZ750), 2:03.544
Paul Gaskin, UK (1978 Suz GS1000), 2:08.372
More, from a press release issued by Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit:
2020 Island Classic: METCHER TAKES POLE FOR AN AUSSIE FRONT ROW
Melbourne’s Jed Metcher heads a solid Australian showing in qualifying today for this weekend’s International Challenge at the 27th Island Classic for historic bikes at Australia’s Phillip Island, steering his 1984 Yamaha FJ 1200 to the top spot on the grid in afternoon qualifying with a time of 1m37.248s.
Alex Phillis (20). Photo by Russell Colvin, courtesy of Phillip Island.
Following the 29 year old are a raft of fellow Aussies, with Alex Phillis (1m37.354s), Steve Martin (1m37.870s), David Johnson (1m38.260s) and Aaron Morris (1m38.266s) snatching the next four grid spots – all aboard Suzukis.
Steve Martin. Photo by Russell Colvin, courtesy of Phillip Island.
Johnson tackled brake problems, while Morris had an engine change to contend with, and his crew will install a new gearbox overnight to give the 2019 pace-setter a little more speed. It was Metcher though who snatched the top spot and will start on pole for the first six lap battle.
Dave Johnson. Photo by Russell Colvin, courtesy of Phillip Island.
“I feel really good about qualifying actually,” said Metcher, a proven performer in International Challenge racing with a 2016 Ken Wootton trophy under his belt. “This is our first run out on the bike ever so really happy with the Yamaha FJ and I think it is obviously a little bit more of a modern bike and it’s a little bit easier to ride than the old Harris.
“The boys are working pretty hard, we still have a few issues which I guess is a good thing in this case, cause we’re fastest and the front fork isn’t travelling all the way.
“I think we can definitely race in the 36’s tomorrow and maybe set a new benchmark for the Island Classic,” said Metcher.
For the Americans it has been a tough 24 hours, but despite a game of musical engines and bikes they have three riders in the top 10, with other experienced names sitting just outside the top ten. The new-look UK squad have their best riders sitting in position 16 and 17 followed by a squad of classic racers eager to perform at the island circuit.
Larry Pegram’s bike suffered a mechanical problem in the closing minutes of the second qualifying session. Photo by Russell Colvin, courtesy of Phillip Island.
US veteran Larry Pegram on his Mojo Yamaha (1m38.388s) will start sixth on the grid, while bike tester and racer Michael Gilbert with a 1m38.966s has scored eighth spot.
Sandwiched between them is multi-AMA champ and last year’s race four winner in the International Challenge, Californian Josh Hayes who blew an engine in the morning session on the second lap. With his bike in the repair shop, Hayes boarded Jordan Szoke’s bike for the afternoon session, and topped the “slow” chart with a 1m38.575s lap to secure position no 7 for tomorrow’s opening six-lap battle.
After a mechanical problem sidelined his motorcycle, Josh Hayes (101) had to borrow Jordan Szoke’s Yamaha FJ1200 in order to set a qualifying time in the second round of qualifying. Photo by Russell Colvin, courtesy of Phillip Island.
“Rolled out this morning pretty fired up and ready to go and did my out lap, and on my first flying lap and going into the Hayshed, I shifted up to 4th gear and it kind of went flat and I was thinking man I still need a time so I was trying to get to the line but by the time I got around to pit end it was pretty much done,” said Hayes
“Unfortunately we saw some of the internal parts on the external of the bike…so that one was done. They have sorted it out and are fixing the bike for tomorrow.
“They wanted to give me a fair shake with some qualifying at least to improve from where I was which wasn’t very well, so we decided I would just jump on Jordan’s (Szoke) bike which was a bit different to my bike and just tried to get a few laps in the books to improve the grid position for tomorrow where I will get my own bike back.
“I feel like tomorrow could be a good day. The lap times are about where I remember from last year and I think they are lap times that we can do to at least be in the mix…so we just got to get the bike back together,” said a confident Hayes.
Australia’s Shawn Giles will start in ninth position(1m39.152s), and team mate Beau Beaton is in 10th (1m39.344s), while the US’s Taylor Knapp who was 10th in the afternoon qualifying will move back to 11th on the grid to make way for teammate Hayes.
Jordan Szoke. Photo by Russell Colvin, courtesy of Phillip Island.
Thirteen-times Canadian superbike bike champ, Jordan Szoke, will start in 13th with a 1m340.597s time, strengthening further the American attack. He had lent his bike to Hayes for qualifying in the “slower” session, but his bike returned with some broken tabs affecting the steering for Szoke when he went out in the “fast” qualifying session. He expects to get more from the machine in racing, after mechanics sort his bike tonight.
The UK’s best was Brendan Wilson who qualified 16th on his 1980 Suzuki Harris, with road-tester Michael Neeves qualifying his Carl Cox Harris in 17th.
The first woman to race in the International Challenge’s 16-year history, Melissa Paris – wife of Josh Hayes – will start from position No. 24 on her 1978 Mojo Yamaha (1m48.325s).
Melissa Paris. Photo by Russell Colvin, courtesy of Phillip Island.
The International Challenge now in its 16th year, will see defending champion Australia take on squads from America and the UK in four six-lap battles over Saturday and Sunday.
Historic racing across all eras
Honouring a century of motorcycling in three action-packed days, the 27th International Island Classic, is one of the world’s great historic bike meets.
In addition to the three-nation International Challenge battle over four races, the Island Classic features 50 races for close to 400 solo machines across the six historic racing categories: Veteran (up to 1919), Vintage (1920-1945), Classic (1946-1962), Post Classic (1963-1972), Forgotten Era (1973-1982) and New Era (1983-1990). Each class will compete in five races.
Apart from the International Challenge trophy, riders are racing for individual accolades – with the Ken Wootton Memorial Trophy for the most successful International Challenge rider, plusthe Phil Irving Perpetual Trophy, awarded to the rider who accrues the most points outside of International Challenge races.
Tickets at the gate
Tickets available at the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit gate from 8am Saturday and Sunday morning. Children 15 and under are free, accompanied by a full-paying adult. On circuit camping is also available with 24 hour check-in from Thursday at 7am with entry via gate 2.
Santa Paula, CA – Jan 23, 2020. Reg Pridmore’s CLASS Motorcycle Schools announces their 2020 Calendar — and there are lots of great things happening at CLASS! This year includes dates at Streets of Willow, Weathertech Raceway Laguna Seca and at VIRginia Int’l Raceway.
Highlights include:
Reg bids farewell to Honda… Reg and Co this year are offering brand new Ninja 400’s at the California events. Reg’s affiliation with Kawasaki goes back to 1977 when he first hopped aboard the KZ1000 and went on to win his second and third AMA Superbike Championships.
“The Kawasaki 400 Ninja has such a buzz around it now with racing, plus there’s a lot of enthusiasm for smaller, manageable street bikes” explains Reg. “It’s a fantastic machine and perfect to work on the smoothness, control and technique that we teach. We’re finding that riders of all sizes and abilities are excited to hop on the 400s and give them a go on the race track. I’m grateful for Honda’s wonderful support of CLASS for 25 years, but time marches on. Huge thanks to our friends at Wheels in Motion in Chatsworth for helping make this possible”.
As always, most CLASS attendees ride their own bikes, so availability is limited. Give CLASS a call and reserve yours now for the California events.
All Female CLASS: For the third year running we have scheduled an CLASS All-WOMEN RIDES day at Streets of Willow! Monday, April 6th is the day, and it’s filling fast. We have some great new additions to share with you including a couple of very special female guest instructors, Stacey Roberts and Ana Mata, headed up by Reg’s wife Gigi Pridmore. There will also be a super fun raffle with awesome prizes, two-up rides with Reg, and proceeds benefitting St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. It’s a time for lots of learning and female camaraderie.
Weathertech Raceway Laguna Seca! April 13/14 is a perfect time of year in Monterey! Don’t miss this early opportunity to ride Laguna Seca with CLASS — “the friendliest, safest place to learn and practice the ride skills we all need.” And maybe the best track day you ever had. But hurry up, it’s filling fast both days.
Motor Officer Advanced Training: Streets of Willow, April 7th. Reg’s MOAT has made hundreds of Police Dept and Sheriff Dept motor officers better, more skilled and safer street riders as their ability levels skyrocket. Parking lot training has its place, but Reg’s time tested methods of teaching control and technique on a closed circuit in real time has taken Motor Officer Training to a whole new level. This training will help save officers lives as they become better, safer riders, working to protect and to serve. Limited availability, don’t delay, register now.
Two D-Day Events! These are the most intensive events on the CLASS schedule and we promise you’ll up your game — a lot! Just 12 students, 12 or more instructors mean a ton of track time, a ton of one on one, two on one, video, and Reg even buys you lunch and dinner. Maybe it’s time to hit up the very best of CLASS. D-day events are in May and October, but don’t wait, May is nearly sold out.
The complete 2020 schedule and pricing is at classrides.com, where you can learn more and register for CLASS. You may also give Reg or Gigi a call in the office at (805) 933-9936. CLASS is proud to be partnered with Shoei Premium Helmets, Dunlop Tires, DP Brakes, Russ Brown Motorcycle Attorneys, and Baxley Pro2 for wheel chocks.
Three-time AMA Superbike Champ and AMA Hall of Fame member Reg Pridmore has been teaching motorcyclists of all skill levels how to ride quickly, safely, and smoothly for over 4 decades. CLASS (California’s Leading Advanced Safety School) was founded in 1986 and is conducted at racetracks from March through November.
At CLASS you (usually) ride your own motorcycle and we run just 2 groups for maximum track time. You will receive classroom instruction as well as on track coaching by Reg and his hand-picked team of instructors. For decades CLASS has been highly regarded as “The friendliest and safest place to learn and practice the riding skills we all need.”
KWR will continue with Ducati Superbike program in the 2020 MotoAmerica Championship
TUCSON, Ariz. (Jan. 23) — Kyle Wyman Racing (KWR) has officially announced the continuation of the Ducati Superbike program in the 2020 MotoAmerica Championship. Kyle Wyman will ride the #33 Ducati Panigale V4 R Superbike in his fifth season in the class.
KWR went to the Ducati platform late in the 2019 pre-season, as a last minute effort to switch brands and prep the Panigale V4 R for Superbike competition. The team received the stock motorcycles just three weeks before the start of the season. With a full winter of preparation, the KWR team looks to build on 2019 results that were achieved at the end of the year, including a 5th place finish in the Barber Motorsports Park season finale.
“This year is particularly exciting for me, as we will continue a project that was initially very last minute when we began 12 months ago,” Wyman said. “The Panigale V4 R has shown its potential in our camp, with strong results to finish out the season in 2019. We’ve been hard at work for months in preparation, and with our technical plans very clearly defined we have no doubt that we can continue to improve our results and make a full-season run in 2020.”
KWR also welcomes a mostly-new crew who will handle preparation, operations and maintenance for the 2020 season. Darin Marshall, the team’s Systems Data Analyst, will lead the team in his second year with KWR. He brings a wealth of experience and will begin his 20th season in the American racing paddock in 2020. KWR also welcomes the addition of Evan Steel and his shop Evan Steel Performance, based in Tucson, AZ where Wyman resides. Last, but not least, KWR welcomes Dave Hopkinson as a technician who led Leon Haslam to the 2018 British Superbike Championship.
“As the rider and team owner, it’s very important for me to have an experienced crew who can absorb some of the many responsibilities of campaigning a successful race program,” Wyman said. “I couldn’t be happier with the guys I have in my camp this coming season. Marshall will be taking the lead in our operation and he will give me the best opportunity possible to continue to work and grow as an athlete.”
The first round of the MotoAmerica series begins at Circuit of the Americas, April 3-5, 2020.
Like a time machine transporting viewers back to an earlier era, the newest videos in the Honda Kokoro™ series take visitors on a virtual visit to original style Honda showrooms of the 1960s and ’70s, as seen at the Mungenast Classic Automobiles & Motorcycles Museum. The Honda Kokoro video series celebrates the heritage, culture, people and products that make Honda unique. “Kokoro” means heart in Japanese.
Last year marked Honda’s 60th year in the continental United States and the Mungenast family is an integral part of the brand’s American legacy. The Mungenast museum was established by the late Dave Mungenast, Sr., who became a Honda motorcycle dealer in St. Louis, Missouri, in 1965 and went on to establish a Honda auto dealership and one of the first Acura dealers in the U.S., in 1986. The Mungenast Automotive Family continues to operate all three dealerships in St. Louis.
The two-part video based on the Mungenast museum, tells the story of the relationship between Dave Sr. and his family with the Honda brand and includes a focus on both Honda automotive history and motorcycle history, through the products and memorabilia housed at the museum. The two videos include:
Dave’s Dream Part 1: The Cars
Dave’s Dream Part 2: The Motorcycles
The segment on automobiles features several rare Honda “S” model sports cars never sold in America, as well as a Z600 and a 1979 Civic. The motorcycle segment features a replica of the first Honda Scrambler to win a National Championship, a rare XLV750R never sold in America, and other iconic Honda bikes, including a Z50 Mini Trail, XL250, CBX, GL1000 Gold Wing and a 1970 CB750, named “Motorcycle of the Century” by Motorcyclist magazine.
ABOUT THE MUNGENAST CLASSIC AUTOMOBILES & MOTORCYCLES MUSEUM
The Mungenast Classic Automobiles & Motorcycles Museum is a permanent, two-building display dedicated to celebrating the memory of Dave Mungenast, Sr. and his family’s passion for everything on wheels. Founded with Dave Sr.’s donation of his collection of vehicles, the expanded facilities now include the next generation of Mungenast’s favorite bikes and automobiles, including many rare items. The family’s collection has something to pique the interest of every enthusiast, young or old. The museum is a gift from Dave and Barbara Mungenast and the Mungenast Automotive Family to the community that has supported the growing family of businesses since 1965. For more information on the museum, see http://mungenastclassicmuseum.com
ABOUT AMERICAN HONDA
American Honda Motor Co., Inc., is the sole distributor of Honda motorcycles, scooters, ATVs and Side-by-Sides in the United States. American Honda’s Powersports Division conducts the sales, marketing and operational activities for these products through independent authorized Honda retail dealers. For more information on Honda products, go to powersports.honda.com
John McGuinness. Photo courtesy of Isle of Man TT Festival Press Office.
Ride with the ISLE OF MAN TOURIST TROPHY Legends
Motorcycling is your passion!
To fully experience it, Legends Track Days at SERRES offers you, for the 3rd time, an exceptional stay in GREECE from October 5 to 12, 2020, with the legends of the TOURIST TROPHY. And for the 1st time, the presence of sidecars.
On the program, boat crossing from ANCONA to IGOUMENITSA, a luxurious hotel close to the circuit and three days of riding on the superb circuit of SERRES, located in the north of GREECE.
A stay that mixes riding, exceptional encounters and relaxation.
All of this in a country where the sun is king.
A simple and unique concept
Thanks to the close links forged with the motorcycle riders, Arnaldo WITTEMBERG, right hand man of Giacomo AGOSTINI, organizes, under the banner of Legends Track Days at SERRES, TRACK DAYS on circuits, with the presence of the legends of the Continental Circus and the Tourist Trophy.
Stars just for you
They make you dream! On their own, they totalize 49 TOURIST TROPHY wins, the famous ISLE OF MAN road race.
Well, these exceptional riders, John McGUINNESS, Ian HUTCHINSON, Ben and Tom BIRCHALL will travel with you and better, they will ride by your side, eat with you, sleep in the same hotels and attend the same briefings.
A unique and exceptional event
“Legends Track Days at SERRES” is open to motorcyclists who want to ride on track with legendary riders in a safe environment.
We accept classic and modern motorcycles as well as, and for the first time, sidecars are accepted. Participants, either beginners, experienced or confirmed, will find their place in the groups that we form according to their experience.
Legendary riders will be delighted to ride with all groups. This is a great opportunity for participants to experience unforgettable moments with these riders with remarkable track records. And why not make a baptism, as a passenger, in a sidecar ridden by Ben BIRCHALL?
Motorcycle enthusiasts who wish to accompany us and who, even if they do not ride on a circuit, want to discover GREECE, are welcome.
Personalized prices
Several options are possible (vehicle, trailer, cabins, rooms, boxes, etc.).
We calculate the price as precisely as possible.
Of course, the accompanying persons are not forgotten. We have a special package for them.
Want to be part of the legend?
Register at www.legendsontrack.com and we will send you the price of your trip. Please note that the number of participants is limited, registrations are made in the order of arrival of the entry forms.
American Josh Hayes (4) finished the weekend off with a win in Race Four, like he did in 2019. Americans Larry Pegram (72) and Michael Gilbert (55) also had top-5 finishes in the series. Photo by Russell ColvinCourtesy Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit.
AUSTRALIA WINS INTERNATIONAL CHALLENGE
Australia has successfully defended the International Challenge winning the three-nation battle for historic bikes at Phillip Island’s Grand Prix circuit today at the Island Classic, with the locals’ 704 point haul securing victory over rivals America (691 points) and the UK third with 423 points.
Albury’s Alex Phillis was the star performer – claiming two wins, a second and a third across the four six lap races – to lead the Australian effort and be awarded the best individual performer on the grid aboard his Suzuki 1260. He won the Ken Wootton trophy with his 157 point haul (2-1-1-3), an early birthday present for the racer who turns 26 tomorrow.
Just behind was Melbourne polesitter Jed Metcher who produced four podium places (3-2-2-2) on his Yamaha FJ to amass 155 points, racing at the front of the pack throughout the meet to make a major contribution to the Australian victory.
But it was far from an easy Australia Day victory, with the Americans taking it to the Aussies in every race. Their major nemesis was Californian ace Josh Hayes – a multi AMA champ – who at 43, still possesses the speed and competitive grit that has seen him amass 83 career wins across many classes over a brilliant motorcycling career.
Alex Phillis (20) won overall with 157 points, one point ahead of Jed Metcher (22) and two points clear of Josh Hayes (4). Photo by Russell Colvin/Courtesy Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit.
Hayes had his work cut out from him for the literal start – thanks to engine issues in qualifying relegating him to grid position 7 for each race and a testing third row start.
It was only his second visit to Phillip Island, but he came out fighting early to win the first race and capped off the weekend with victory in the fourth battle. In race two and three, he campaigned at the front and returned a 5th and a 3rd to be the top performing American and finish with an individual tally of 154 points.
Phillis, son of multiple Australian champ, Robbie Phillis was thrilled with his Individual Ken Wootton win, as well as the national victory for the Rex Wolfenden led team.
“It’s a huge privilege to win it. I remember Ken at the track from when I was running around as a 4 year old, he would always be there. It’s crazy to come away with something like this!,” said Phillis.
“I’ve been to this event every single year since 2006 since dad was riding, I’ve only ridden three times and every year we’ve had a chance at the overall, and last year we came close with 3rd, but honestly I wanted it really bad and it showed in my riding. It’s awesome to come here and win such a prize.”
While the Australians took the win at their home circuit, congratulations also went to the Dave Crussell captained Americans. Some had never experienced the demanding Australian track and were learning its high speed demands and fast-flowing corners as the weekend went on.
Backing Hayes aboard the Mojo Yamahas were the impressive efforts of Californian road tester Michael Gilbert (7-6-7-4), Ohio racer Larry Pegram (4-3-6-14), Canadian champion Jordan Szoke (11-8-10-5) and Alabama’s Taylor Knapp (8-9-9-8). They consistently raced in the top ten and filled positions fifth to eight in the Ken Wootton tally.
American Michael Gilbert (55) rounded out the top five overall with 140 points to his name. Photo by Russell Colvin/Courtesy Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit.Steve Martin (99), seen battling Americans Larry Pegram (72), Michael Gilbert (55), Taylor Knapp (44) and Josh Hayes (4), finished the weekend in fourth place. Photo by Russell Colvin/Courtesy Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit.American Taylor Knapp (44) was seven points down from Pegram, finishing in eighth. Photo by Russell Colvin/Courtesy Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit.American Melissa Paris (13) rode Robert Ruwoldt’s spare Harris F1 Kawasaki in Race Three after her TZ750 seized the piston in cylinder #2 and highsided her when she was wide-open in 4th gear. “Very pleased with my Mithos Tech Air suit,” Paris told Roadracing World via e-mail. Photo by Russell Colvin/Courtesy Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit.
On either side sat Australians, 2019 winner Steve Martin on his Katana who took fourth overall (5-4-4-7), and rounding out the top ten Vincent Irving rider Beau Beaton and veteran Shawn Giles on the Suzuki Katana.
Australian David Johnson, the 2018 winner, had a weekend he would prefer to forget and only completed the first race with a 6th, before mechanical problems produced DNF’s in race two and three and no start in race four.
The best performer for the Tony Hart captained UK squad was Brendan Wilson (Suzuki Harris) who finished the weekend in 12th overall, with Damien Kavney 15th and Roger Gunn in 16th both on Suzukis.
Race Three
Saturday’s front-runners continued to dominate with Australia’s Alex Phillis winning race three on his Suzuki ahead of Jed Metcher, with America’s Josh Hayes in third.
Polesitter Metcher won the start and while struggling somewhat with the front end of his Yamaha, led for the first four laps, while the melee settled behind him.
Phillis on the other hand, had a lousy start off the front-row and was pushed back to sixth by the end of the first lap.
In front of him lay Metcher, former enduro champ Steve Martin and the formidable American trio of Larry Pegram, Josh Hayes and Michael Gilbert on their Mojo Yamahas.
Despite gearbox problems and some light rain mid-race Phillis slowly ticked them off, and by the end of lap three it was a Metcher/Phillis battle at the front with Hayes in pursuit. Phillis took the lead going into turn three, with Metcher biting back to once again take control. Phillis though had the top speed advantage, and took the lead on Gardner Straight to head the final laps to the flag and cross .077 in front of Metcher and seize 40 points for the Australians .
“We got a false neutral off the start and our gearbox isn’t too bad but every half the race I was jumping out of gear out of turn four and we struggled a bit,” said Phillis.
“But to have the guys in front…. it sort of put a target on their back and gave me the edge I needed to find the pace fast and early in the race.
“So we came from far back. If you want to win, you got to have the motivation to get there,” said Phillis.
Race Four
With no sign of rain, race four was an epic final battle in the sun. Metcher won the start and led at the end of lap one. Rather than Phillis who was struggling with gearbox issues, it was Metcher and Hayes that set the pace. Hayes took the lead on lap two, and despite the badgering of Metcher and Phillis, added the race four victory to his race one win and to finish the weekend with two victories, a third and a fifth.
“I knew with the sun coming out it played a little bit of an advantage for tyres with us in the Dunlop’s, and finally I got a pretty decent run off line and didn’t let Jed just go. I wasn’t trying to play catch-up for the whole race, being able to get up close to him right off the bat, I thought if I could push and pressure the pace for race distance, every lap works in my favour a little bit,” said Hayes after the final win.
“I made a few mistakes late in the race and they got back a little close to me, but I was just trying to be steady and just hit my marks and fortunately we had a clean race. We had four great races and I really enjoyed riding in them, with the boys (Alex & Jed) all of us together, all weekend, every race, it was so much fun! It’s good to leave on a high note!”
Historic Racing Across All Eras
Honouring a century of motorcycling in three action-packed days, the 27th International Island Classic, is one of the world’s great historic bike meets.
In addition to the three-nation International Challenge battle over four races, the Island Classic featured 50 races with nearly 400 solo machines racing across the six historic categories: Veteran (up to 1919), Vintage (1920-1945), Classic (1946-1962), Post Classic (1963-1972), Forgotten Era (1973-1982) and New Era (1983-1990). Each class will compete in five races.
The winner of the Phil Irving Trophy was NSW racer, Keo Watson who returned a perfect score card 250 points – five wins in the 500 Forgotten Era class on his 1981 Yamaha and 500 wins in the 250cc New Era Production class via his 1990 Honda.
For all times go to www.computime.com.au
For information on the 27th International Island Classic at Phillip Island, held Jan 24-26 2020, go to www.islandclassic.com.au
International Challenge – National points
Australia, 704 points
America, 691 points
United Kingdom, 423 points
Individual – Ken Wootton Memorial Trophy For Highest Individual Point Scorer
5. #99 Steven MARTIN (AUS) 1982 Sukuki Katana 1294, 9:57.154, -4.405
6. #3 David JOHNSON (AUS) 1982 Suzuki Katana 1100, 10:01.207, -8.458
International Island Classic: Rider Quotes After Sunday’s Races
American Josh Hayes After Race 3
“It was a tough race, I was a bit of a slow starter this morning so that definitely hurt me and Jed got out there pretty far and Larry (Pegram) rode good for a few laps. It took me a little while with Steve (Martin), and Larry (Pegram) and Michael Gilbert, and a handful of guys there in the beginning. When I got to 2nd, I was just taking such little pieces out of Jed (Metcher) and then I couldn’t believe how fast Alex (Phillis) went by, I was like ‘S— that guy must be doing 35s as fast as he went by me!’ He just rode right up to him, and again they got together and brought me back a little bit, racing up with each other. When we got the mist in too, I was having this real internal battle, because I wanted to get in there and I wanted to win that race (Race 3) so bad, but I didn’t feel like with the cooler temperatures my bike was quite where I wanted it to be like it was yesterday; so you start thinking about the team aspect and a 3rd is a lot better than me screwing up. I was a little too cautious, and they did give me a chance to get back in it, but I just played my cards a little too cautious and ruined a good opportunity; hopefully the sun will come back out and we can work hard for it again.
“It’s hard to say (about the Aussie competition) because I think based on last year there are some other guys; that this could be a 5-way battle, if Aaron Morris had just as a steady week, if Davo Johnson, it would be even more guys up there. There’s nothing wrong with the level of the competition on either side. I still feel like our guys are learning and if we brought back that same crew, we’re going to be another step up. If feel like if this were a precursor for next year, it’s going to be a barn burner of a lot of bikes going really fast lap times.”
Josh Hayes After Race 4 Win
“I knew with the sun coming out it played a little bit of an advantage for tires with us on the Dunlops, and finally I got a pretty decent run off the line and didn’t let Jed (Metcher just go) and I wasn’t trying to play catch-up for the whole race. Being able to get up close to him right off the bat, I thought if I could push and pressure the pace for race distance, every lap works in my favor a little bit. I made a few mistakes late in the race and they got back a little closer to me, but I was just trying to be steady and just hit my marks and fortunately we had a clean race. We had four great races and I really enjoyed riding in them, with the boys (Alex & Jed) all of us together, all weekend, every race, it was so much fun! It’s good to leave on a high note!”
Australian Alex Phillis After Race 3 Win
“I felt good…we got a false neutral off the start and our gearbox isn’t too bad but every half the race I was jumping out of gear out of Turn 4 and we struggled a bit, but to have the guys in front it sort of put a target on their back and gave me the edge I needed to find the pace fast and early in the race. So we came from far back and up to the front and there was no exceptions. If you want to win, you got to have the motivation to get there. I’m happy and we still have one more to go, it’s not over yet, but it’s nice to get one out of the way.”
Alex Phillis, Ken Wootton Memorial Trophy Winner After Taking 3rd In Race 4
“We dropped off a little bit, I think we ruined the gearbox a bit in the previous race, so we got away. Jed and Josh were certainly setting the pace, I didn’t find it as easy as the last ones. Mid-race we sort of got ourselves in a good position, but the gearbox was well and truly let go…a few mishaps. I thought better off to let the other guys try run with it when it got to the end, we worked ourselves into a good gap and I was pretty confident I would still get the overall, really happy and so much fun and a great weekend!
“It’s a huge privilege to win the overall; I remember Ken at the track from when I was running around as a 4-5 year old, he would always be there. It’s crazy to come away with something like this! I’ve been to this event every single year since 2006 since Dad (Robbie Phillis) was riding. I’ve only ridden three times and every year we’ve had a chance at the overall, and last year we came close with 3rd, but honestly I wanted it really bad and it showed in my riding. It’s awesome to come here and win such a prize like the Ken Wootton Perpetual.”
Australian Jed Metcher After Race 3
“We’re still struggling with the bike, still struggling with the front end. I didn’t really start that strong, I think the other boys might have been battling or something, so I got a few laps out of there on my own. We’ve still got a bit of work to do to get really confident on it, but I felt a lot more consistent then (in Race 3) with the apexes and so on. It was interesting when Al (Alex Phillis) came past, it started raining, so we had to back off a little bit. The last lap was quite slow and I tried to hold him up to beat him to the line, but he is doing a really good job and he is riding well. Had a good race, had good fun and hopefully in the next one I can get a win.”
Jed Metcher After Finishing 2nd In Race 4 & 2nd Overall
“Just struggled with the front confidence and we’re down only probably 10 horsepower to the other guys which was pretty clear there as it got on. Very happy with the weekend, had an absolute ball, dicing with guys like Al Phillis and Josh Hayes is pretty humbling. Very happy that the Aussies won, it’s two years in a row that I have now been involved, since I’ve been in the classic, we haven’t won it all that much. Rex, Buck, Dad and Pauly did an awesome job and all the sponsors did a fantastic job. Hopefully we can come back stronger next year and win the whole lot, that’s the plan!”
Canadian Jordan Szoke (Riding With American Team) After Race 3
“It’s amazing (Phillip Island) and I never want to go home! When you get to go around here, and if you look where we are, obviously the ocean is right there, it is so beautiful. The fans are amazing, and everyone is so friendly, in the paddock, and then they all just want to win on the track. I’m making steps, the last race there (Race 3) I made a few little mistakes battling with Taylor (Knapp), and then it started to rain, and I have never ridden around here in the rain on slicks, and I don’t know what it’s like so I thought I’d roll out of it a little and I wasn’t going for the win so I was like be smart. But I really had a lot of fun yesterday when it was beautiful and sunny, Race 2 was really really enjoyable for me and I hope I get to come back.”
Rex Wolfenden (Team Australia Captain)
“I feel terrific! Feel really relieved! It was very close, and the Americans have got a good team, and they were a bit closer than I would have thought. We lost a few guys, and we were really nervous right up to the last race and we fortunately have got home!”
Josh Hayes (4) leads Jed Metcher (22) at Phillip Island. Photo by Russell Colvin, courtesy of Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit.
AUSTRALIA LEADS TEAM AMERICA BY A WHISKER IN THE 2020 INTERNATIONAL CHALLENGE AT PHILLIP ISLAND
Only three points separates Australia and Team America (351-348) after day one of racing in the three-nation International Challenge at Phillip Island’s historic bike meet, the Island Classic, with California’s multi-AMA champ Josh Hayes scoring victory in race one and Melbourne’s Alex Phillis winning race two.
Aboard his 1980 Suzuki 1260, 26-year-old Phillis was the player of the day, taking second in race one and winning race two to lead the Ken Wootton Memorial Trophy battle on 79 points; with Melbourne’s Jed Metcher (Yamaha) clocking 3-2 finishes to finish second overall on 77 points; with American gun Hayes just a point behind (76) with his race one victory and a fifth place in race two aboard the Mojo Yamaha.
Other solid performances came from America’s Larry Pegram (4-3), Michael Gilbert(7-6), Taylor Knapp (8-9) and Jordan Szoke (11-8) to bolster the US tally; while Australia also saw good point hauls for 2019 winner, Steve Martin (5-4) and Beau Beaton(9-11). 2018 winner and Australian hope, Adelaide’s David Johnson, struggled with brake problems to return a sixth in race one but retired to the pits in race two.
The UK team saw Brendan Wilson lead the British charge. He sits in 12th position overall with compatriot Roger Gunn, the second best performer, in 15th with the team amassing 213 points overall.
International Challenge action did not start so well when a lap one crash at Southern Loop saw UK riders Michael Neeves and Brendan Wilson and Australia’s Scott Webster, John Allen and Craig Ditchburn go down, with Ditchburn’s 1978 Yamaha on fire.
The race was red-flagged, and only Wilson managed to make the restart while the others retreated to the pits for hasty repairs to machinery in an effort to make race two.
At the restart it was Phillis who led the field with locals Metcher and Martin, but Hayes showed his class from the word go. Despite starting from position seven after engine issues in qualifying, he was sitting fifth by the end of lap one and bearing down on the front-runners.
By lap two he was in second and then it became a battle between the young Phillis and the experienced Hayes, with the Californian taking the lead on lap four to the flag to pip the Aussie at the post.
Behind was Metcher in third, Pegram in fourth, Martin in fifth and Johnson in sixth.
“I’m actually kinda surprised,” said Hayes after his race one victory. “We’ve had a few troubles and setbacks here and on that first start I was back a little further than the start. So when we did the re-start, I just got a clean one, and just kinda bided my time and tried.
“Six laps isn’t a lot of time but I was just trying to see where I had the opportunity and I got a big draught and I got two of them of the front straight.”
Alex Phillip (20) won Race Two Saturday at the International Island Classic at Phillip Island. Photo by Russell Colvin, courtesy of Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit.
In race two, Phillis took charge at the start, but the battle intensified mid-race with Metcher and Hayes both taking the lead before the American pulled a false neutral going into turn four and then ran off the track. Phillis took the race two flag in front of Metcher, with Martin third, Pegram fourth and Hayes fifth.
“It’s good to get it (a win) this early in the weekend,” said Phillis who also won an International Challenge race in 2017. “Obviously it gives us a huge up in the scheme of the points, so it gives us breathing room to the next races.
“It’s still tough out there, it’s hard to carry the lead pace, but really easy to follow I find. So I sort of sat behind Jed (Metcher) for a while and I’ve got the horsepower to pass, so I knew without mucking around too much, I’m better to sit behind for a lap then attack (Josh) Hayes, but then fortunately (Josh) Hayes ran off and made it pretty easy for us.”
Hayes was also happy with his fifth. “Man, that was probably race I was most proud of,” he said post race-two. “To have that little gap that I had to close and Jed and Alex were riding so good and I was watching them battling, and I didn’t really know where I was making time, other than they were battling each other up a little bit.
“Salvaging fifth out of that race isn’t too bad. I just hate it for my team mates because I rode a good race and I was so pumped about being able to get to the front, but it’s how the ball bounces.”
The International Challenge continues tomorrow with two six-lap races to determine the crown for best nation and individual competitors. Now in its 16th year, Australia has won the Challenge on 12 occasions and is the defending champion.
The new-look UK team is finding their feet, but was given a blow today when Neeves, on his Carl Cox-prepared Suzuki Harris, crashed early and missed race one. He managed a 15th in race two.
Over 20 races were held today at the Island Classic, one of the world’s leading historic bike meets, with racing from nearly 400 bikes from the Veteran class of the early 1900s through to Forgotten Era and New Era machines.
Apart from the International Challenge trophy, riders are racing for individual accolades – with the Ken Wootton Memorial Trophy for the most successful International Challenge rider, plus the Phil Irving Perpetual Trophy, awarded to the rider who accrues the most points outside of International Challenge races.
Gates open at 8:00am Sunday for Island Classic historic racing at Phillip Island, with tickets available at the gate. Children 15 and under are free, if accompanied by a full-paying adults.
Motul is the presenting sponsor of the 2020 mi-bike Insurance Australian Superbike Championship. Photo courtesy of Motorcycling Australia.
Motul Continues Strong ASBK Partnership in 2020
Motorcycling Australia (MA) are proud to announce lubricants giant Motul will continue its long-term partnership with the 2020 mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship (ASBK) as the Presented by Partner.
The Motul and ASBK association has been in place since 2015 and further cements Motul’s continued commitment to developing motorcycle racing.
Motul is synonymous with motorsport both nationally and internationally and the brand is a perfect fit for the ASBK, which is becoming one of the world’s top domestic motorcycle racing championships.
Motul Oils pioneered the formulation of a 100% synthetic lubricant for automotive engines back in 1971. Since then Motul has gained experience by being the official supplier for many major teams in international competitions including the MotoGP World Championship, FIM Superbike World Championship, 24 Hours of Le Mans and FIM Motocross World Championship.
Having sponsors such as Motul further strengthens the championship, and if 2019 is anything to go by the Superbike, Supersport, Supersport 300, YMF R3 Cup, and Oceania Junior Cup classes will all go down to the wire in 2020.
MA CEO, Peter Doyle said the ASBK was thrilled to have Motul as the Presented by sponsor.
“Motorcycling Australia is ecstatic that our strong relationship with Link International – distributors of Motul lubricants, Pirelli tyres, and AGV helmets, continues in 2020,” Mr Doyle said.
“Both Motul and the ASBK share the same vision; we are both passionate about Australian motorcycle sport.
“We have grown the ASBK over the past five years and expanded our national and international audience and fan base, and we are pleased Motul have been a valued partner from the outset.”
Link International long-time General Manager, Brenden Stoeckert, is also delighted to remain involved with the ASBK saying, “as a company, Link International has been importing Motul motorcycle oils for 30 years and we’ve also been involved in the support of motorcycle racing with Motorcycling Australia for decades”.
“So, it’s natural that with the ever-improving ASBK Championships we’d be throwing our support behind MA again for 2020.
“We’re looking forward to close fought racing and being involved in the wonderful spectacle the ASBK brings to motorcycle sport.”
The mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance ASBK Championship presented by Motul hits the track at the Official ASBK Test at Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit next week.
2020 ASBK Calendar
Official ASBK Test – Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, VIC January 29-30
Round 1: WorldSBK – Phillip Island, VIC February 27-March 1
Round 2: Wakefield Park, NSW March 27-29
Round 3: The Bend, SA May 7-10
Round 4: Barbagallo Raceway, WA May 15-17
Official ASBK Test – Morgan Park, QLD July 28-29
Round 5: Morgan Park, QLD August 7-9
Round 6: Winton Motorsport Park, QLD September 11-13
Round 7: Phillip Island GP Circuit, VIC October 2-4
Head to www.asbk.com.au for more info about the Australian Superbike Championship. For the latest updates from the ASBK, follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
Todd Schuster with Ron Pierce's BMW R90S AMA Superbike in 1977. Photo by John Owens, copyright 2020, all rights reserved.
Todd Schuster, a master fabricator involved from the starting days of AMA Superbike, died today, January 24th, at Pascack Valley Hospital in Westwood, New Jersey. He was 76.
Schuster worked with Udo Gietl on the Butler & Smith BMW AMA Superbike team in 1976, on Ron Pierce’s BMW AMA Superbike in 1977, on John Long’s BMW AMA Superbike program in 1978, and on American Honda’s AMA Superbike and F1 program in 1980-1987. Schuster was well-known for fabricating everything from oversized fuel tank modifications to frame and swingarm modifications, to special parts.
He is survived by a cousin.
May he rest in peace.
(Above) Another shot of Todd Schuster with Ron Pierce’s BMW R90S AMA Superbike, at Loudon, New Hampshire in 1977. Photo by John Owens, Copyright 2020, all rights reserved.
Autodromo do Internacional Algarve, in Portimao, Portugal. Photo courtesy of Dorna.
Rollercoaster testing week ends at Portimao for WorldSBK
The start of the season is now on the horizon, although there’s plenty of work for the 2020 WorldSBK line-up to be cracking on with in Portugal
After a rain-affected WorldSBK test at the Circuito de Jerez – Angel Nieto, it is time to head west to Portugal, and the Autodromo do Internacional Algarve and Portimao for testing from the 26th and 27th January. The second test in January will be the final time we get to see most of the bikes on-track at once before the Phillip Island test the week before the first round, meaning that there will be plenty to keep our eyes on as the new season gets nearer.
Portimao came onto the calendar in 2008 and has been a favourite for the riders ever since, with its dramatic undulations, fast straights, sweeping bends and technical sectors. The factors combined make for the perfect testing circuit and with KRT absent, the ARUBA.IT Racing – Ducati squad will be keen to get some running in. Scott Redding and teammate Chaz Davies had contrasting Jerez tests; Redding was quick and constantly in the top three, whilst Davies crashed twice within in the morning of day one. With dry running expected, the next two days will be critical for a valid insight into the 2020 season.
Since their comeback to WorldSBK as a factory manufacturer in 2016, Yamaha haven’t enjoyed such a strong pre-season. The PATA YAMAHA WORLDSBK OFFICIAL TEAM have been a constant threat to Kawasaki and Ducati and have packed out the leading positions across numerous tests. Michael van der Mark and Toprak Razgatlioglu looked to be the riders to beat at Jerez at various points and will now get to bring their 2020 engine and 2020 Yamahas to Portimao, a track both riders took podiums at in 2019.
In what has so far been a quiet pre-season, the BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team will also be present at Portimao and look to really shine through with the sun expected. Tom Sykes and Eugene Laverty have both enjoyed strong results at the track before and with plenty to test, both are anticipated more positives across Sunday and Monday. Having stated back at the Jerez test that focus needs to go on the engine, Eugene Laverty will be looking for more power in Portugal, whilst both he and Tom Sykes will continue working through their schedule regarding which chassis to use.
They topped day one at Jerez and had an equally positive second day, but the HRC Team will now take to the Portimao circuit and continue their 2020 pre-season testing programme. Whilst exactly what they are testing has been kept under wraps, the bike has already come out of the box in a competitive nature. Leon Haslam was a regular fixture inside the top three over the Jerez test, whilst Alvaro Bautista enjoyed top ten pace despite a small crash. Can the perform well again at Portimao?
With no KRT squad, attention turns to the Independent riders; an impressive Jerez test for the GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Junior Team gives them plenty to shout about going to Portugal. Federico Caricasulo won in WorldSSP at the track last season and despite suffering a tricky last day of testing at Jerez, he will be eager to get some dry running in warmer conditions under his belt. For Garrett Gerloff, the American will simply be looking to get good track running in dry conditions ahead of the first action at Phillip Island. Loris Baz (Ten Kate Racing – Yamaha) will also be determined to continue his great start to 2020, making incremental steps with the 2020 Yamaha YZF R1.
In terms of the Independent Kawasaki teams, there’s plenty to watch out for as ORELAC Racing VERDNATURA and Kawasaki Puccetti Racing take to the circuit. For the Valencian-based Orelac squad, Chilean rookie Maximilian Scheib will look to carry on bedding in to the WorldSBK paddock. He will be the first rider from Chile to start a full season of WorldSBK, with the adaptation to the ZX-10RR still ongoing. For Puccetti, Xavi Fores will be on Kawasaki machinery for the first time in 2020, having not taking part in the Jerez test. It will be the first time he will have raced a four-cylinder WorldSBK machine in 9 years and will aim to get crucial dry weather running under his belt before Phillip Island.
There are four Independent Ducati teams taking to the Portimao circuit across the two days, starting with the Barni Racing Team heading into the test off the back of little track action at Jerez. The Italian squad are keen to shine in Portugal with Sandro Cortese heading out to ride for the team, whilst Leon Camier will be in attendance and if fit enough, out on the Ducati Panigale V4 R. For Leandro Mercado (Motocorsa Racing), he will aim to continue acclimatising to his Ducati Panigale V4 R and achieve his bid of top ten success in 2020. On the fringes of the top ten at Jerez, the former STK1000 Champion is shooting high in the Algarve.
The other two Ducati teams include Team GOELEVEN and Brixx Performance. Michael Ruben Rinaldi (Team GOELEVEN) suffered a crash at the Jerez test on day one, hindering his progress. At Portimao, the team will work together to try and understand Rinaldi’s riding style, so they can make changes accordingly. Frenchman Sylvain Barrier (Brixx Performance) is relishing the opportunity of being back on the world stage and with a good team behind him, Barrier is far from feeling the pressure. He will continue the shakedown of his Ducati Panigale V4 R in order to be in the mix for positive performances come the start of the season.
WorldSSP: Testing turns to thrilling Portimao
Big names in WorldSSP are joined by the welcome return of 2004 and 2007 WorldSBK Champion James Toseland, who comes back to the paddock as team manager
The 2020 FIM Supersport World Championship promises to bring more thrilling, fair-bashing action across 13 rounds from all over the World. However, prior to this is the testing season, where the teams and riders get together to familiarise themselves with new bikes and regulations, whilst others try to perfect the packages they already have. Four teams will be in action across the two days in order to improve their packages ahead of the 2020 WorldSSP season.
Starting with the Champions, the BARDAHL Evan Bros. WorldSSP Team and their sole entrant for 2020 Andrea Locatelli will hope to be in action. The team were scheduled to ride at the Jerez test, but inclement weather meant they packed up earlier and headed to Almeria. Locatelli needs crucial miles and with the new regulations stipulating that slick tyres will be used for the first time in WorldSSP, there’s more than just new parts to try out. The former Moto3™ podium finisher has been one of the biggest profiles to come into World Supersport and will look to give the BARDAHL Evan Bros. WorldSSP Team a second teams’ title in as many seasons.
One of the most successful teams in WorldSSP are PTR Honda, rebranded this season as Dynavolt Honda; Simon Buckmaster’s squad picking up new sponsorship for their 2020 World Supersport campaign. With 18 race wins to the team’s name, Hikari Okubo and Patrick Hobelsberger will be in action at Portimao and eager to get to grips with the CBR600RR. The team were consistent top ten runners in 2019 and will hope to move up and challenge for the top six as 2020 unfolds, especially given Okubo’s podium-threatening pace last year.
GMT94 Yamaha had an incredibly strong end to 2019, with Jules Cluzel winning at San Juan and securing a strong podium finish at Losail. Three wins for the 31-year-old three-time WorldSSP runner-up still wasn’t enough to give him the title in 2019 and he will be hoping that the turn of the decade brings luck his way. His teammate for a second season is the flamboyant Corentin Perolari (GMT94 Yamaha), who took his first pole in Argentina. He ended 2019 strongly and with the right amount of testing, he could be a real threat to the title.
The final team that will be testing from the WorldSSP field is the WRP Wepol Racing squad, a new addition to the grid this season. Featuring the only British rider in the field – Danny Webb – the team is managed by double World Superbike Champion, James Toseland. Toseland is back in the paddock at Portimao, a track he raced at only once in 2010. For rider Danny Webb, it is a big opportunity back on the world stage, with him clinching the International Road Racing Championship (IRRC) in 2018.
With plenty to be expected, tested and reviewed, the World Supersport field for 2020 is one of the biggest and best in recent seasons, with 17 nationalities ready to do battle. Add into the mix rookies, new regulations and new circuits, it looks set to be an all-out battle for the entirety of the season.
Catch all the riders’ reactions and more on our WorldSBK social channels and at WorldSBK.com.
Jed Metcher (22) on his T-Rex Racing Yamaha FJ1200. Photo by Russell Colvin, courtesy of Phillip Island.
International Island Classic
Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit
Phillip Island, Victoria, Australia
January 24, 2020
Provisional Combined Qualifying Results:
Jed Metcher, Australia (1984 Yam FJ1200), 1:37.248
Alex Phillis, New Zealand (1980 Suz XR69 1100), 1:37.354
Steve Martin, Australia (1982 Suz Katana 1294), 1:37.870
David Johnson, Australia (1982 Suz Katana 1100), 1:38.260
Aaron Morris, Australia (1980 Suz Katana 1300), 1:38.266
Larry Pegram, USA (1983 Yam CMR FJ1250), 1:38.388
Josh Hayes, USA (1983 CMR FJ1250), 1:38.575
Michael Gilbert, USA (1983 Yam CMR FJ1250), 1:38.966
Shawn Giles, Australia (1982 Suz Katana 1294), 1:39.152
Beau Beaton, Australia (1982 Irving Vincent 1300), 1:39.344
Taylor Knapp, USA (1983 Yam CMR FJ1250), 1:39.513
Craig Ditchburn, Australia (1978 Yam TZ750), 1:39.688
Jordan Szoke, Canada (1983 Yam CMR FJ1250), 1:40.597
Cameron Donald, Australia (1982 Irving Vincent 1300), 1:41.152
John Allen, Australia (1978 Yam OW31 750), 1:41.736
Brendan Wilson, Australia (1980 Harris Suz 1170), 1:43.729
Michael Neeves, UK (1984 Harris Suz 1230), 1:44.301
Scott Webster, Australia (1982 Harris Suz 1200), 1:45.498
Jorge Guerrero, USA (1982 Suz XR69 1200), 1:46.523
Joe Pethoud, USA (1984 Harris Yam 1250), 1:47.066
Dave Crussell, USA (1978 Yam TZ750), 1:47.436
Damein Kavney, Australia (1982 Suz XR69 1260), 1:48.174
Robert Ruwoldt, Australia (1980 Harris Kaw 1200), 1:48.324
Melissa Paris, USA (1978 Yam TZ750), 1:48.325
Alexander Sinclair, UK (1982 Suz XR69 1080), 1:48.884
Brian Filo, USA (1978 Kaw Z1 1260), 1:49.782
Roger Gunn, Aiustralia (1982 Harris F1 1170), 1:49.842
Tony Hart, UK (1982 Harris Suz 1085), 1:49.911
Richard Peers-John, UK (1979 Yam TZG 347), 1:51.992
Hasse Gustafson, Sweden (1972 Duc 750), 1:52.012
James Agombar, Australia (1978 Yam TZ750), 1:52.784
Richard Llewellin, UK (1982 Duc TT-F1 750), 1:53.679
Laurie Fyffe, Australia (1980 Suz GSX1166), 1:54.198
Johnny Nordberg, Sweden (1972 Duc V2 Imola 748), 1:54.572
Bruce Lind, USA (1975 Yam TZ750), 2:03.544
Paul Gaskin, UK (1978 Suz GS1000), 2:08.372
More, from a press release issued by Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit:
2020 Island Classic: METCHER TAKES POLE FOR AN AUSSIE FRONT ROW
Melbourne’s Jed Metcher heads a solid Australian showing in qualifying today for this weekend’s International Challenge at the 27th Island Classic for historic bikes at Australia’s Phillip Island, steering his 1984 Yamaha FJ 1200 to the top spot on the grid in afternoon qualifying with a time of 1m37.248s.
Alex Phillis (20). Photo by Russell Colvin, courtesy of Phillip Island.
Following the 29 year old are a raft of fellow Aussies, with Alex Phillis (1m37.354s), Steve Martin (1m37.870s), David Johnson (1m38.260s) and Aaron Morris (1m38.266s) snatching the next four grid spots – all aboard Suzukis.
Steve Martin. Photo by Russell Colvin, courtesy of Phillip Island.
Johnson tackled brake problems, while Morris had an engine change to contend with, and his crew will install a new gearbox overnight to give the 2019 pace-setter a little more speed. It was Metcher though who snatched the top spot and will start on pole for the first six lap battle.
Dave Johnson. Photo by Russell Colvin, courtesy of Phillip Island.
“I feel really good about qualifying actually,” said Metcher, a proven performer in International Challenge racing with a 2016 Ken Wootton trophy under his belt. “This is our first run out on the bike ever so really happy with the Yamaha FJ and I think it is obviously a little bit more of a modern bike and it’s a little bit easier to ride than the old Harris.
“The boys are working pretty hard, we still have a few issues which I guess is a good thing in this case, cause we’re fastest and the front fork isn’t travelling all the way.
“I think we can definitely race in the 36’s tomorrow and maybe set a new benchmark for the Island Classic,” said Metcher.
For the Americans it has been a tough 24 hours, but despite a game of musical engines and bikes they have three riders in the top 10, with other experienced names sitting just outside the top ten. The new-look UK squad have their best riders sitting in position 16 and 17 followed by a squad of classic racers eager to perform at the island circuit.
Larry Pegram’s bike suffered a mechanical problem in the closing minutes of the second qualifying session. Photo by Russell Colvin, courtesy of Phillip Island.
US veteran Larry Pegram on his Mojo Yamaha (1m38.388s) will start sixth on the grid, while bike tester and racer Michael Gilbert with a 1m38.966s has scored eighth spot.
Sandwiched between them is multi-AMA champ and last year’s race four winner in the International Challenge, Californian Josh Hayes who blew an engine in the morning session on the second lap. With his bike in the repair shop, Hayes boarded Jordan Szoke’s bike for the afternoon session, and topped the “slow” chart with a 1m38.575s lap to secure position no 7 for tomorrow’s opening six-lap battle.
After a mechanical problem sidelined his motorcycle, Josh Hayes (101) had to borrow Jordan Szoke’s Yamaha FJ1200 in order to set a qualifying time in the second round of qualifying. Photo by Russell Colvin, courtesy of Phillip Island.
“Rolled out this morning pretty fired up and ready to go and did my out lap, and on my first flying lap and going into the Hayshed, I shifted up to 4th gear and it kind of went flat and I was thinking man I still need a time so I was trying to get to the line but by the time I got around to pit end it was pretty much done,” said Hayes
“Unfortunately we saw some of the internal parts on the external of the bike…so that one was done. They have sorted it out and are fixing the bike for tomorrow.
“They wanted to give me a fair shake with some qualifying at least to improve from where I was which wasn’t very well, so we decided I would just jump on Jordan’s (Szoke) bike which was a bit different to my bike and just tried to get a few laps in the books to improve the grid position for tomorrow where I will get my own bike back.
“I feel like tomorrow could be a good day. The lap times are about where I remember from last year and I think they are lap times that we can do to at least be in the mix…so we just got to get the bike back together,” said a confident Hayes.
Australia’s Shawn Giles will start in ninth position(1m39.152s), and team mate Beau Beaton is in 10th (1m39.344s), while the US’s Taylor Knapp who was 10th in the afternoon qualifying will move back to 11th on the grid to make way for teammate Hayes.
Jordan Szoke. Photo by Russell Colvin, courtesy of Phillip Island.
Thirteen-times Canadian superbike bike champ, Jordan Szoke, will start in 13th with a 1m340.597s time, strengthening further the American attack. He had lent his bike to Hayes for qualifying in the “slower” session, but his bike returned with some broken tabs affecting the steering for Szoke when he went out in the “fast” qualifying session. He expects to get more from the machine in racing, after mechanics sort his bike tonight.
The UK’s best was Brendan Wilson who qualified 16th on his 1980 Suzuki Harris, with road-tester Michael Neeves qualifying his Carl Cox Harris in 17th.
The first woman to race in the International Challenge’s 16-year history, Melissa Paris – wife of Josh Hayes – will start from position No. 24 on her 1978 Mojo Yamaha (1m48.325s).
Melissa Paris. Photo by Russell Colvin, courtesy of Phillip Island.
The International Challenge now in its 16th year, will see defending champion Australia take on squads from America and the UK in four six-lap battles over Saturday and Sunday.
Historic racing across all eras
Honouring a century of motorcycling in three action-packed days, the 27th International Island Classic, is one of the world’s great historic bike meets.
In addition to the three-nation International Challenge battle over four races, the Island Classic features 50 races for close to 400 solo machines across the six historic racing categories: Veteran (up to 1919), Vintage (1920-1945), Classic (1946-1962), Post Classic (1963-1972), Forgotten Era (1973-1982) and New Era (1983-1990). Each class will compete in five races.
Apart from the International Challenge trophy, riders are racing for individual accolades – with the Ken Wootton Memorial Trophy for the most successful International Challenge rider, plusthe Phil Irving Perpetual Trophy, awarded to the rider who accrues the most points outside of International Challenge races.
Tickets at the gate
Tickets available at the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit gate from 8am Saturday and Sunday morning. Children 15 and under are free, accompanied by a full-paying adult. On circuit camping is also available with 24 hour check-in from Thursday at 7am with entry via gate 2.
Reg Pridmore (right) and Gigi Pridmore (left) and the new CLASS Motorcycle Schools Kawasaki Ninja 400 motorcycles. Photo courtesy of CLASS Motorcycle Schools.
Santa Paula, CA – Jan 23, 2020. Reg Pridmore’s CLASS Motorcycle Schools announces their 2020 Calendar — and there are lots of great things happening at CLASS! This year includes dates at Streets of Willow, Weathertech Raceway Laguna Seca and at VIRginia Int’l Raceway.
Highlights include:
Reg bids farewell to Honda… Reg and Co this year are offering brand new Ninja 400’s at the California events. Reg’s affiliation with Kawasaki goes back to 1977 when he first hopped aboard the KZ1000 and went on to win his second and third AMA Superbike Championships.
“The Kawasaki 400 Ninja has such a buzz around it now with racing, plus there’s a lot of enthusiasm for smaller, manageable street bikes” explains Reg. “It’s a fantastic machine and perfect to work on the smoothness, control and technique that we teach. We’re finding that riders of all sizes and abilities are excited to hop on the 400s and give them a go on the race track. I’m grateful for Honda’s wonderful support of CLASS for 25 years, but time marches on. Huge thanks to our friends at Wheels in Motion in Chatsworth for helping make this possible”.
As always, most CLASS attendees ride their own bikes, so availability is limited. Give CLASS a call and reserve yours now for the California events.
All Female CLASS: For the third year running we have scheduled an CLASS All-WOMEN RIDES day at Streets of Willow! Monday, April 6th is the day, and it’s filling fast. We have some great new additions to share with you including a couple of very special female guest instructors, Stacey Roberts and Ana Mata, headed up by Reg’s wife Gigi Pridmore. There will also be a super fun raffle with awesome prizes, two-up rides with Reg, and proceeds benefitting St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. It’s a time for lots of learning and female camaraderie.
Weathertech Raceway Laguna Seca! April 13/14 is a perfect time of year in Monterey! Don’t miss this early opportunity to ride Laguna Seca with CLASS — “the friendliest, safest place to learn and practice the ride skills we all need.” And maybe the best track day you ever had. But hurry up, it’s filling fast both days.
Motor Officer Advanced Training: Streets of Willow, April 7th. Reg’s MOAT has made hundreds of Police Dept and Sheriff Dept motor officers better, more skilled and safer street riders as their ability levels skyrocket. Parking lot training has its place, but Reg’s time tested methods of teaching control and technique on a closed circuit in real time has taken Motor Officer Training to a whole new level. This training will help save officers lives as they become better, safer riders, working to protect and to serve. Limited availability, don’t delay, register now.
Two D-Day Events! These are the most intensive events on the CLASS schedule and we promise you’ll up your game — a lot! Just 12 students, 12 or more instructors mean a ton of track time, a ton of one on one, two on one, video, and Reg even buys you lunch and dinner. Maybe it’s time to hit up the very best of CLASS. D-day events are in May and October, but don’t wait, May is nearly sold out.
The complete 2020 schedule and pricing is at classrides.com, where you can learn more and register for CLASS. You may also give Reg or Gigi a call in the office at (805) 933-9936. CLASS is proud to be partnered with Shoei Premium Helmets, Dunlop Tires, DP Brakes, Russ Brown Motorcycle Attorneys, and Baxley Pro2 for wheel chocks.
Three-time AMA Superbike Champ and AMA Hall of Fame member Reg Pridmore has been teaching motorcyclists of all skill levels how to ride quickly, safely, and smoothly for over 4 decades. CLASS (California’s Leading Advanced Safety School) was founded in 1986 and is conducted at racetracks from March through November.
At CLASS you (usually) ride your own motorcycle and we run just 2 groups for maximum track time. You will receive classroom instruction as well as on track coaching by Reg and his hand-picked team of instructors. For decades CLASS has been highly regarded as “The friendliest and safest place to learn and practice the riding skills we all need.”
Kyle Wyman (33) at speed on his Ducati Panigale V4 R Superbike. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
KWR will continue with Ducati Superbike program in the 2020 MotoAmerica Championship
TUCSON, Ariz. (Jan. 23) — Kyle Wyman Racing (KWR) has officially announced the continuation of the Ducati Superbike program in the 2020 MotoAmerica Championship. Kyle Wyman will ride the #33 Ducati Panigale V4 R Superbike in his fifth season in the class.
KWR went to the Ducati platform late in the 2019 pre-season, as a last minute effort to switch brands and prep the Panigale V4 R for Superbike competition. The team received the stock motorcycles just three weeks before the start of the season. With a full winter of preparation, the KWR team looks to build on 2019 results that were achieved at the end of the year, including a 5th place finish in the Barber Motorsports Park season finale.
“This year is particularly exciting for me, as we will continue a project that was initially very last minute when we began 12 months ago,” Wyman said. “The Panigale V4 R has shown its potential in our camp, with strong results to finish out the season in 2019. We’ve been hard at work for months in preparation, and with our technical plans very clearly defined we have no doubt that we can continue to improve our results and make a full-season run in 2020.”
KWR also welcomes a mostly-new crew who will handle preparation, operations and maintenance for the 2020 season. Darin Marshall, the team’s Systems Data Analyst, will lead the team in his second year with KWR. He brings a wealth of experience and will begin his 20th season in the American racing paddock in 2020. KWR also welcomes the addition of Evan Steel and his shop Evan Steel Performance, based in Tucson, AZ where Wyman resides. Last, but not least, KWR welcomes Dave Hopkinson as a technician who led Leon Haslam to the 2018 British Superbike Championship.
“As the rider and team owner, it’s very important for me to have an experienced crew who can absorb some of the many responsibilities of campaigning a successful race program,” Wyman said. “I couldn’t be happier with the guys I have in my camp this coming season. Marshall will be taking the lead in our operation and he will give me the best opportunity possible to continue to work and grow as an athlete.”
The first round of the MotoAmerica series begins at Circuit of the Americas, April 3-5, 2020.
The Mungenast Classic Automobiles & Motorcycles Museum. Photo courtesy of Mungenast Classic Automobiles & Motorcycles Museum.
Like a time machine transporting viewers back to an earlier era, the newest videos in the Honda Kokoro™ series take visitors on a virtual visit to original style Honda showrooms of the 1960s and ’70s, as seen at the Mungenast Classic Automobiles & Motorcycles Museum. The Honda Kokoro video series celebrates the heritage, culture, people and products that make Honda unique. “Kokoro” means heart in Japanese.
Last year marked Honda’s 60th year in the continental United States and the Mungenast family is an integral part of the brand’s American legacy. The Mungenast museum was established by the late Dave Mungenast, Sr., who became a Honda motorcycle dealer in St. Louis, Missouri, in 1965 and went on to establish a Honda auto dealership and one of the first Acura dealers in the U.S., in 1986. The Mungenast Automotive Family continues to operate all three dealerships in St. Louis.
The two-part video based on the Mungenast museum, tells the story of the relationship between Dave Sr. and his family with the Honda brand and includes a focus on both Honda automotive history and motorcycle history, through the products and memorabilia housed at the museum. The two videos include:
Dave’s Dream Part 1: The Cars
Dave’s Dream Part 2: The Motorcycles
The segment on automobiles features several rare Honda “S” model sports cars never sold in America, as well as a Z600 and a 1979 Civic. The motorcycle segment features a replica of the first Honda Scrambler to win a National Championship, a rare XLV750R never sold in America, and other iconic Honda bikes, including a Z50 Mini Trail, XL250, CBX, GL1000 Gold Wing and a 1970 CB750, named “Motorcycle of the Century” by Motorcyclist magazine.
ABOUT THE MUNGENAST CLASSIC AUTOMOBILES & MOTORCYCLES MUSEUM
The Mungenast Classic Automobiles & Motorcycles Museum is a permanent, two-building display dedicated to celebrating the memory of Dave Mungenast, Sr. and his family’s passion for everything on wheels. Founded with Dave Sr.’s donation of his collection of vehicles, the expanded facilities now include the next generation of Mungenast’s favorite bikes and automobiles, including many rare items. The family’s collection has something to pique the interest of every enthusiast, young or old. The museum is a gift from Dave and Barbara Mungenast and the Mungenast Automotive Family to the community that has supported the growing family of businesses since 1965. For more information on the museum, see http://mungenastclassicmuseum.com
ABOUT AMERICAN HONDA
American Honda Motor Co., Inc., is the sole distributor of Honda motorcycles, scooters, ATVs and Side-by-Sides in the United States. American Honda’s Powersports Division conducts the sales, marketing and operational activities for these products through independent authorized Honda retail dealers. For more information on Honda products, go to powersports.honda.com
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www.roadracingworld.com
November 14, 2026
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