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Ducati Reports Increase In Its Motorcycle Sales During 2019

Ducati closes 2019 on a high, with bike sales topping 53,000

53,183 Ducati bikes delivered to customers in 90 countries

Italy remains the number one market. Double-digit growth in China, Brazil and Spain

For the second year running, the Panigale is the world’s best-selling superbike. A record number of advance orders for the new Streetfighter V4, with deliveries to begin in March 2020

Borgo Panigale (Bologna, Italy), 14 January 2020 – Ducati Motor Holding closes 2019 with 53,183 bikes delivered to customers worldwide, nudging last year’s figure of 53,004 bikes even higher.

A major contribution to this result came from the Panigale: with sales totalling 8,304, it retains the market leadership established in 2018 and confirms its status as the world’s best-selling superbike with a market share of 25%.

Two new bikes introduced in 2019 – the Hypermotard 950 and Diavel 1260 – racked up sales of 4,472 and 3,129 respectively, doubling the overall volumes achieved in 2018 by previous versions.

The Multistrada family performed equally well, scoring a 3% increase compared to 2018 (thanks also to the addition of the 950 S and a revamped 1260 Enduro); deliveries totalled 12,160, the best sales performance since the Bologna-built multibike made its debut sixteen years ago.

Sales figures for 2019 have reinforced Ducati’s position at the premium end of the motorcycle market.

“2019 was a tough but also rewarding year. We’re working to make Ducati the world’s most desirable motorcycle brand”, stated Claudio Domenicali, CEO of Ducati Motor Holding, “and the results we’re achieving, the development of the range and the market response all confirm we’re on the right track. On today’s global market, one in every four superbikes is now a Panigale. The technical content we’ve transferred from the R version and our extensive racing experience to the V4 2020 range ensure this bike remains the category benchmark. What’s more, order books for the new Streetfighter V4 are bulging – more than 1,700 are already on order – and deliveries will begin in March 2020.”

“We’re satisfied with the results achieved in 2019”, adds Francesco Milicia, Global Sales VP. “Over the last twelve months a major network development plan has been implemented, with 54 new dealerships in 20 countries. This expansion plan will continue this year in order to further improve the world-wide network coverage and offer our fans a growing premium experience.”

Sales in Italy continue to grow, confirming the country as Ducati’s number one market. Bike sales totalled 9,474, a 3% improvement on 2018 and a 20% increase over the last three years.

In the United States, Ducati deliveries totalled 7,682 motorcycles, down by just 2% despite the continuing negative trend which saw the market shrink by 7% compared to 2018.

Brazil (+20%), Spain (+10%) and France (+8%), however, performed exceedingly well.
China, a country where the Italian brand is particularly appreciated, continued the upward trend of recent years and is, with 3,200 motorcycles sold (+12%), now the Bologna-based bike manufacturer’s fifth most important market.

This positive end to 2019 allows Ducati to look into the future with confidence. For 2020, the product range is now even more complete and dealerships will soon be taking delivery of the long-awaited Streetfighter V4. The Panigale can – in addition to the introduction of the new V2 – also count on a major upgrade to the V4 that will boost performance and enhance rideability.

For globetrotters and those who want to enjoy long-distance adventures in outstanding comfort, the Multistrada family sees the arrival of the new Grand Tour.

Last but not least, the Ducati Scrambler range – which saw the new 800 Dark presented at EICMA – will see the introduction of a new model in the coming months.

Village Idiots Fielding Team In 2020 CMRA ULW Endurance Series

Village Idiots making a comeback in 2020 CMRA ULW Endurance Series

 

Dallas, Texas – Village Idiots endurance team announces that they will be competing in the 2020 CMRA ULW Endurance series aboard a 2019 Kawasaki Ninja 400. Village Idiots, multi-time overall endurance champions (2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2017) in the CMRA Championship Big Bike Endurance series are proven winners in endurance racing. With the Championship Big Bike Endurance sunset in 2017, the Idiots have decided to compete in the popular and highly competitive CMRA ULW Endurance series.

The team consists of some of the top riders in the CMRA series.

John Orchard (Team Owner)

Chris Headley (Team Captain)

Cory Burleson

Michael Klesel

Derek Thomas

 

John Orchard, Village Idiots Team Owner, states: “We are excited to be bringing the Village Idiots back together to compete in the CMRA ULW Endurance series. During the off-season we prepped two new Kawasaki Ninja 400’s with great support from our outstanding sponsors. For this year’s team, long time Idiots Chris and Cory are back, and we’ve added Mike and Derek as new Idiots for 2020. The new Idiots both have solid race experience and we are all friends on and off the track. The CMRA puts on the best series in North America with top notch competition and with the support of our sponsors we have a competitive bike to combine with a solid team that promises be a lot of fun for 2020!”

 

The Village Idiots would like to thank their sponsors who are onboard for the 2020 season:

RaceworX, RES, Dunlop, M4, Drippin Wet, Woodcraft, G-Man racing, Moto Liberty, Shorai, HD painting, FastFrank.

 

The first round of a 6 round endurance series will be at MSR Houston in Angleton, Texas February 15, 2020. More information can be found on the CMRA website: http://www.cmraracing.com/2020-schedule/

 

Keep up with the Village Idiots at: https://www.facebook.com/VillageIdiotsEnduranceRacing

Former EBR World Superbikes, Splitlath Motorsport Racebikes For Sale

EBR Erik Buell Racing WSBK and Road racing icons for sale

Even if Erik Buell’s last chapter did not ultimately lead to an economical success, the last years of his work with the V-Twin from East Troy / Wisconsin mark for sure the peak of his attempts to build the ultimate American Sportsbike. From 2013 on, the race program ramped up internationally with the EBR 1190 RS and John Dimbylow´s Splitlath motorsport on the Isle of Man TT and Macau GP. For the 2014 season, EBR announced to join even the World Superbike Series where rider Geoff May and Aaron Yates completed the first WSBK season for Erik Buell Racing.

For 2015, the team announced Niccolò Canepa and Larry Pegram as riders, but in the middle of the season, with the bikes ready prepared for the next round in Imola, investor and name giving team sponsor HERO decided to discontinue the cooperation in 2015, so Team HERO EBR was forced to withdraw over night from the World Championship.

UK based Splitlath Motorsport jumped in and continued in 2015 and 2016 as factory race team with US riders Mark Miller, Cory West and Shelina Morena on the Isle of Man, Macau and very successfully in China.

NCCR in Sweden, owned by the Krüper family, well known for their engagement in the Buell world for more than 2 decades, offer now the bikes and other inventory from the final race programs of Erik Buell Racing.

Prices start a 35.000€ for the RS bikes and at 45.000€ for the WSBK.

Jens Krüper of NCCR “It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity to have this stock of bikes and parts on hand, the Buell world needs to thank John Dimbylow of Splitlath Motorsport for holding these things together all these years. It’s just amazing, these 10 bikes and the huge amount of parts are the essence of Erik’s work with the V-Twins and outstanding pieces of Motorsport history”.

John Dimbylow of Splitlath Motorsport, “I really didn’t want any of the equipment to go, particularly the bikes as I had formed such an affinity with the brand and the guys at East Troy, it was such a pleasure to work with them and to be part of the development of such incredible pioneering machinery. The bikes had become part of me and what was the most enjoyable few years of racing that I had. We are very proud of what we achieved with Erik Buell, but the bikes were just gathering dust and I decided that they would have a better life with Owners who would use them or cherish them in a better way than I could”.

Julia Krüper Technician at NCCR, “The parts inventory is huge and it will take us some time to list it all online. Also, we first like to see what parts will go with the bikes. As we are hoping for buyers who actually use the bikes, we expect at least one set of spare wheels to go with each of them. It’s cool to have all the last factory technologies finally here in house and we will surely learn a lot for our future projects with the 1190 engine”.

Birgit Krüper CEO at NCCR, “All bikes will be delivered race ready with full historical and technical documentation. For some bikes we even have the original trophies and posters. The plan is also to run a program of Racing Memorabilia, what will include used parts, posters and art to honor this latest chapter of Buell Factory motorsport”.

Video: American Racing Episode Four Focuses On Sean Dylan Kelly, Cameron Petersen

Former-racer-turned-videographer Gray Pham, age 19, has produced a new, eight-part video documentary series focused on riders in the MotoAmerica AMA/FIM North American Road Racing series called “American Racing.”

This is Part Four of the video series and it focuses on racers Sean Dylan Kelly and Cameron Petersen at the Road America round of the 2019 MotoAmerica season.

Team America Also Competing For FIM Oceania Historic Cup At Phillip Island

AUSTRALIA VS AMERICA IN THE 2020 FIM OCEANIA HISTORIC ROAD RACE CUP

 

Australia will take on America in the 2020 FIM Oceania Historic Road Race Cup, a title to be keenly fought at Phillip Island’s International Island Classic historic bike meet, this Australia Day long weekend January 24-26.

 

For 2020, the Cup’s competition will focus on the International Challenge, with the top five performers from each country combining their points in a bid to win the crown.

 

Both Australia and America are campaigning super strong teams with decades of race experience between them.

 

America boasts the likes of four-time AMA Superbike champion Josh Hayes, 13-times Canadian champion Jordan Szoke, the first female to ever contest the International Challenge Melissa Paris, plus Larry Pegram, Michael Gilbert and AMA front-runner Taylor Knapp.

 

The bike of choice for the majority of the Americans will again be the Mojo Yamaha based CMR FJ 1250 prepared by captain Dave Crussell and his crew, and three potent Yamaha TZ750’s.

 

Australia though is not to be outdone with machinery prepared by Australian captain, Rex Wolfenden, and dominated by a raft of Suzuki Katanas and a XR60.    There’s also an Irving Vincent in the fleet, a Honda Harris, and two Yamaha TZs.

 

The local team will benefit from home circuit advantage, with a field of ace riders who know Phillip Island intimately and between them have amassed several historic racing titles.

 

The Aussie riders include Island Classic stars of recent years – Steve Martin, Dave Johnson, Jed Metcher and Shawn Giles – plus a roster boasting the speed and experience of 2019 pace-setter Aaron Morris, Cam Donald, Beau Beaton and Alex Phillis.

 

The FIM Oceania title was launched in 2017, with Australia winning the first two years, but being knocked from their pedestal in 2019 when the format changed to non-International Challenge events and New Zealand took the prize.

 

In 2020, the Oceania title-fight returns to the original format as the majority of Americans travelling to Australia for the Classic are racing in the International Challenge.

 

“We are excited to be part of the Oceania title for the first time this year and we’re expecting a tough fight,” said American team captain, Dave Crussell.   “In 2020 we have our strongest core team ever to challenge the Aussies on their home turf.

 

“2019 was a non-stop year for us, with bike improvements and supplementing the core of our riders. Our top 3 riders from 2019 are returning to the Classic in 2020 and we have added to this base. Big thanks to Larry Cook (LC Racing), Denis Curtis (CMR Racing) and Dunlop for their continued support of our team.”

 

Australian captain, Rex Wolfenden, is cautious.   “I am expecting a tight contest.  The Americans have a very strong team,” he said.

 

“The Aussie boys are up for it, as always.  They just want to win and get the FIM Oceania Cup back with us.  Close hard racing is what the fans come to see and I am sure this title fight will produce just that.”

 

FIM Oceania President, Glen Williams, was excited about the prospect of the American onslaught.

“This year, the battle intensifies as the Australians take on the Americans, with both fielding strong teams,” said FIM Oceania President, Glen Williams.

 

“The Cup will again be staged as part of the 2020 International Island Classic which is a standout event for the Oceania region.

 

“FIM Oceania is responsible for developing motorcycle sport within Oceania whether in the form of junior road racing, motocross, speedway and via this exciting event of FIM Oceania Historic Road Race Cup.  I’m sure the 2020 Cup will be brilliant and add another dimension to the historic festivities’’.

Tickets available at www.islandclassic.com.au

The southern hemisphere’s largest historic meet, the International Island Classic, will be held this Australia Day weekend, January 24-26, at Phillip Island.   Go to www.islandclassic.com.au for tickets and on-circuit camping, and get planning an action-packed and affordable Australia Day long weekend away with your mates.

American Flat Track: Latus Motors Fielding James Rispoli In Production Twins

Latus Motors Racing Recruits Rispoli for AFT Production Twins

Former Grand National Champion Joe Kopp to serve as Team Manager

 

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (January 13, 2020) – Latus Motors Racing is set to return to the American Flat Track scene in a major way with the announcement the team has signed James “The Rocket” Rispoli to contest the 2020 AFT Production Twins championship aboard a Harley-Davidson XG750R.

 

The development represents a dream pairing of a versatile rider with a versatile team who have independently enjoyed monumental success across multiple disciplines of two-wheeled sport.

 

28-year-old Rispoli is coming off an impressive 2019 season in which he seamlessly returned to his dirt track roots following a decade chasing roadracing wins and championships on both sides of the Atlantic.

 

Last season, Rispoli scored four podiums in AFT Production Twins action, ultimately finishing sixth in the championship, despite missing the opening round of the title fight. The performance served as a strong reminder of the fan favorite’s natural flat track skills, which he’d previously leveraged to take second overall in the 2009 AFT Singles standings.

 

Gladstone, Oregon-based Latus Motors Racing has a long association with American Flat Track racing. In the mid-2000s, Latus Motors garnered numerous race wins and top-three championship finishes while serving as the title sponsor for the 2000 Grand National Champion Joe Kopp. Subsequently, Latus and Kopp formed an inhouse Triumph-based effort that finished on the podium in the premier class of American Flat Track racing as recently as 2015.

 

Like Rispoli, Latus Motors Racing branched out into other forms of motorcycle sport to remarkable results. The team established itself a serious contender on multiple makes and in multiple series, including taking a dramatic triumph in the prestigious DAYTONA 200 in 2011.

 

Team owner George Latus, said, “I was involved in flat track for a lot of years, and more recently we were heavily involved in road racing. We kind of put a hold on things for a couple of years, but we saw the direction American Flat Track was going, and it’s moving forward in a very positive way. We were looking to get back into it and recognized the potential of the Harley-Davidson XG750R and the Production Twins class as the perfect way to do that.

 

“I’ve raced against James for many years. He’s got a great attitude, and he’s a terrific competitor. I’m excited to have the opportunity to work with him.”

 

Team Manager Kopp said, “One of the big benefits James brings to our program is the electronics knowledge he gained last year helping Vance & Hines to tune the bikes. The way the sport is going, you have to some comfort playing with that stuff, and he’s definitely on top of that more than just about any rider that I know out there. That’s going to be huge.

 

“We’re excited. We’re going to come out swinging, and I think we’re going to surprise some people for sure with the Harley out there.”

 

Rispoli said, “I couldn’t be happier with the opportunity to race the XG750R for Latus Motors Racing. My relationship with Mr. Latus goes back a decade when we first discussed the possibility of me riding for his road race team. I’ve raced against his teams for a long time, so I’m very familiar with exactly how well prepared his team is and how serious they are about winning. I’m also thrilled to be working with Joe. I have a huge amount of respect for him, and I was extremely excited when he gave me a call and told me he was looking forward to working with me too.

 

“Last year’s experience riding and developing the XG750R makes me confident we can fight for wins and the title the 2020. I’ve reunited with personal trainer Richie Perperian — who helped me win two AMA Pro SuperSport championships — to make sure I take maximum advantage of this awesome opportunity. We’re already off and rolling.”

 

Tickets for the first-ever doubleheader – DAYTONA 200 and DAYTONA TT – at the legendary Daytona International Speedway are on sale now. Watch both historic motorcycle racing events during Bike Week at DAYTONA for just $35 when you purchase an advance General Admission ticket online. Get yours at www.americanflattrack.com.

 

For more information on American Flat Track visit www.americanflattrack.com.

 

To get the latest American Flat Track clothing and merchandise visit www.americanflattracker.com.

 

How to Watch:

NBCSN and TrackPass on NBC Sports Gold are the official homes for coverage of American Flat Track. For the 2020 season, NBCSN’s coverage of AFT remains in highly-coveted programming slots within two weeks of each event. The complete schedule for AFT on NBCSN can be viewed at http://www.americanflattrack.com/events-nbcsn/. TrackPass on NBC Sports Gold – the most-robust motorsports offering in the digital marketplace – is a cornerstone of AFT’s digital strategy, providing live streaming coverage of every event and maintaining an active archive of all AFT content.

 

About American Flat Track:

American Flat Track is the world’s premier dirt track motorcycle racing series and one of the longest-running championships in the history of motorsports. Sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing in Daytona Beach, Fla., the series is highly regarded as the most competitive form of dirt track motorcycle racing on the globe. For more information on American Flat Track, please visit http://www.americanflattrack.com, like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, check us out on Instagram, live stream the events with TrackPass on NBC Sports Gold and catch all the American Flat Track racing action on NBCSN.

World Endurance: Xavier Simeon Joins Suzuki Endurance Racing Team

Belgian rider Xavier Simeon has joined Suzuki Endurance Racing Team for the 2019-2020 EWC Championship to ride alongside Etienne Masson and Gregg Black aboard the GSX-R1000.

Simeon will replace Vincent Philippe, who has retired after earning 10 of SERT’s world titles, 16 years with the team and a total of nine Bol d’Or victories.

Simeon has won a 600 Superstock title in 2006 with Hamamatsu and taken a podium of the 2009 FIM Superstock 1000 Championship. He has also had experience in Moto2 and MotoGP.

With EWC recently boosted with the new emergence of pilots from MotoGP, WSBK and other motorcycle championships, the team feels that Simeon is a perfect example of that and new SERT Team Manager Damien Saulnier is effectively counting on those qualities and skills the current championship leaders look to collect a further title.

Etienne Masson:

“We got to know each other this year. He’s a hard-headed and humble person. He’s a fast rider with a dynamic pace. It’s our duty as riders to make him feel comfortable and share our experience. He has to experience the overall potential of our motorcycle which is quite different from the one he has been riding in the previous season in EWC. I am very confident because Xavier has experience in the mastery of race motorcycles.”

Gregg Black:

“I’ve known Xavier since 2005. We worked on the same tracks until 2010. He is an efficient pilot and a friend as well. Even if he has only been racing for a year in EWC, he already has great experience in motorcycle competition. I am sure we’ll do a great job together and Xavier has earned my trust. That is why I arranged a meeting between him and Damien (Saulnier) some time ago. With Etienne and Xavier, we share the same objectives and way of thinking.”

Damien Saulnier – SERT Team Manager:

“The arrival of Xavier Simeon in the team is a great addition to the 2020 season. And even better is that our three riders already know each other. Xavier’s experience in GP is an undeniable asset. Etienne, Gregg and Xavier have a similar profile and I am sure that their teamwork will set a new momentum within the SERT.”

Moto2: Hafizh Syahrin Receiving Government Subsidy To Continue Racing

Malaysian rider Hahizh Syahrin, age 25, will receive a grant from his home country to subsidize his new ride on the Angel Nieto Team in the 2020 FIM Moto2 World Championship.

 

Syahrin was recruited as a last-minute fill in for Jonas Folger on the Monster Energy Yamaha Tech3 team in the 2018 MotoGP World Championship, and he did well, scoring 46 points and nearly earning the MotoGP Rookie of the Year award.

 

That performance earned Syahrin the opportunity to remain with Tech3 as it switched from Yamaha to KTM and raced as the Red Bull KTM Tech3 team in the 2019 MotoGP World Championship. Syahrin, however, struggled to get results on the KTM RC16 in 2019, his contract was not renewed for 2020, and he lost his spot in the MotoGP World Championship.

 

Syahrin then landed a ride with the Angel Nieto Team in the 2020 Moto2 World Championship, but according to a January 10 report on freemalaysiatoday.com, Syahrin does not receive a salary or travel expenses with the ride and has been unable to find sponsors to cover his needs.

 

Now, the Malaysian government, specifically the Youth and Sports Ministry boss Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman, plans to give Syahrin a grant from the National Sports Trust Fund, according to the report.

 

“I will help him as much as I can because before this [our focus] was to find sponsors from corporate companies,” Rahman was quoted as saying to reporters.  “I have discussed the matter with the ministry’s top management, and we are still waiting for Hafizh’s application. We will continue to find ways to help him.”

 

Rahman also called on Malaysian businesses to step up to help Syahrin.

Ducati Diavel 1260 S Wins “Good Design Award”

The Diavel 1260 S wins the Good Design Award

Another prestigious prize for the unique Diavel 1260 design

A true style icon, the Diavel 1260 continues its winning streak in international design competitions

Powerful and beefy, this motorcycle combines maxi-naked performance with muscle cruiser ergonomics

Borgo Panigale (Bologna, Italy)– Design and sheer personality have always been an essential part of every Ducati motorcycle and winning international awards proves just how dedicated the company is to these aspects.

An undisputed style icon, the Diavel 1260 S – after winning the prestigious European design prize, the Red Dot Award – has now gone on to enjoy success in the United States where the Bologna-built muscle cruiser has clinched the Good Design Award.

Assigned by the Chicago Athenaeum, Museum of Architecture and Design, and by the European Centre for Architecture Art Design and Urban Studies, the Good Design Award is one of the most sought-after prizes, one that has been acknowledging and certifying global excellence in design since 1950.

Powerful and beefy, the Diavel 1260 combines maxi-naked performance with muscle cruiser ergonomics. The second-generation of this incredibly special bike remains faithful to the spirit of the original, drawing on its key styling elements yet bringing them decidedly up to date. Its meticulous design seamlessly incorporates the bike’s beating heart, the 159 hp Testastretta DVT 1262 engine. For 2020 the unconventional, unmistakeable Diavel 1260 will be sporting two new colour schemes, namely Dark Stealth (a total black look, available for the standard version) and an all-new Ducati Red with white trims and red seat tail (on the S version) to emphasise the sport performance and power-cruiser spirit of this original bike in inimitable Ducati style.

MotoAmerica: Toni Elias Joins M4 ECSTAR Suzuki

Brea, CA (January 10, 2020) – Team Hammer is happy to announce that Spanish superstar Toni Elias will spearhead its M4 ECSTAR Suzuki program in MotoAmerica Superbike as the team steps up to take on the role of Suzuki’s premier road race team in the United States.

Entering his fifth season racing in the MotoAmerica AMA/FIM North American Superbike Series, Elias has already established himself as one of the series’ all-time greats.

The Spaniard took the series by storm in 2016, winning the first three MotoAmerica Superbike races of his career on the all-new Suzuki GSX-R1000, and he hasn’t eased up since. After finishing his rookie campaign ranked third, Elias won the 2017 MotoAmerica Superbike Championship and followed that up with runner-up finishes in 2018 and 2019.

Arguably even more impressive than his season-long accomplishments are the physics-defying feats he pulls off in a relentless pursuit of the checkered flag. One of the most spectacular riders in the world, Elias executes near-impossible passes and notches up wins at a dizzying pace.

In just four seasons, he has already racked up 32 MotoAmerica Superbike wins, tying him with the legendary Miguel DuHamel for fourth in AMA Superbike history.

Elias was already a highly decorated rider before he arrived on the American scene. Prior to coming to MotoAmerica, Elias was the 2010 Moto2 World Champion and a Grand Prix race winner in the MotoGP, Moto2, 250cc, and 125cc World Championships.

In joining the team, Elias continues an association with Suzuki Motor of America, Inc. spanning his MotoAmerica career. It also sees him join forces with a highly experienced racing outfit entering its fourth decade of competition with seven AMA Pro and MotoAmerica National titles, 83 victories, and 234 podiums to its credit.

Elias said, “I am excited for this new way and happy to build something together with Suzuki and Team Hammer. The goal is to keep performing at the same high level, continuing to win races, earn the podium, and fight for the championship. We have a lot of work to do as the competition will be strong, so we know we must do a nice job and have a good effort. We are very determined and I am happy to get this opportunity.”

Additional M4 ECSTAR Suzuki riders will be announced soon.

 

About Suzuki: Suzuki Motor of America, Inc. (SMAI) distributes Motorcycles, ATVs, Scooters, Outboard Motors and Automotive Parts and Accessories via an extensive dealer network throughout 49 states. Suzuki Motor Corporation (SMC), based in Hamamatsu, Japan, is a diversified worldwide manufacturer of Motorcycles, ATVs, Scooters, Automobiles, Outboard Motors and related products. Founded in 1909 and incorporated in 1920, SMC has business relations with 201 countries/regions. For more information, visit www.suzuki.com.

About Team Hammer: The 2020 season will mark Team Hammer’s 40th consecutive year of operating as a professional road racing team. Racebikes built and fielded by Team Hammer have won 83 AMA Pro and MotoAmerica National races, have finished on AMA Pro and MotoAmerica National podiums 234 times and have won seven AMA Pro and MotoAmerica National Championships, as well as two FIM South American Championships (in Superbike and Supersport). The team has also won 137 endurance races overall (including seven 24-hour races) and 13 Overall WERA National Endurance Championships with Suzuki motorcycles, and holds the U.S. record for mileage covered in a 24-hour race. The team also competed in the televised 1990s Formula USA National Championship, famously running “Methanol Monster” GSX-R1100 Superbikes fueled by methanol, and won four F-USA Championships.

Ducati Reports Increase In Its Motorcycle Sales During 2019

The Ducati factory in Italy. Photo courtesy of Ducati.
The Ducati factory in Italy. Photo courtesy of Ducati.

Ducati closes 2019 on a high, with bike sales topping 53,000

53,183 Ducati bikes delivered to customers in 90 countries

Italy remains the number one market. Double-digit growth in China, Brazil and Spain

For the second year running, the Panigale is the world’s best-selling superbike. A record number of advance orders for the new Streetfighter V4, with deliveries to begin in March 2020

Borgo Panigale (Bologna, Italy), 14 January 2020 – Ducati Motor Holding closes 2019 with 53,183 bikes delivered to customers worldwide, nudging last year’s figure of 53,004 bikes even higher.

A major contribution to this result came from the Panigale: with sales totalling 8,304, it retains the market leadership established in 2018 and confirms its status as the world’s best-selling superbike with a market share of 25%.

Two new bikes introduced in 2019 – the Hypermotard 950 and Diavel 1260 – racked up sales of 4,472 and 3,129 respectively, doubling the overall volumes achieved in 2018 by previous versions.

The Multistrada family performed equally well, scoring a 3% increase compared to 2018 (thanks also to the addition of the 950 S and a revamped 1260 Enduro); deliveries totalled 12,160, the best sales performance since the Bologna-built multibike made its debut sixteen years ago.

Sales figures for 2019 have reinforced Ducati’s position at the premium end of the motorcycle market.

“2019 was a tough but also rewarding year. We’re working to make Ducati the world’s most desirable motorcycle brand”, stated Claudio Domenicali, CEO of Ducati Motor Holding, “and the results we’re achieving, the development of the range and the market response all confirm we’re on the right track. On today’s global market, one in every four superbikes is now a Panigale. The technical content we’ve transferred from the R version and our extensive racing experience to the V4 2020 range ensure this bike remains the category benchmark. What’s more, order books for the new Streetfighter V4 are bulging – more than 1,700 are already on order – and deliveries will begin in March 2020.”

“We’re satisfied with the results achieved in 2019”, adds Francesco Milicia, Global Sales VP. “Over the last twelve months a major network development plan has been implemented, with 54 new dealerships in 20 countries. This expansion plan will continue this year in order to further improve the world-wide network coverage and offer our fans a growing premium experience.”

Sales in Italy continue to grow, confirming the country as Ducati’s number one market. Bike sales totalled 9,474, a 3% improvement on 2018 and a 20% increase over the last three years.

In the United States, Ducati deliveries totalled 7,682 motorcycles, down by just 2% despite the continuing negative trend which saw the market shrink by 7% compared to 2018.

Brazil (+20%), Spain (+10%) and France (+8%), however, performed exceedingly well.
China, a country where the Italian brand is particularly appreciated, continued the upward trend of recent years and is, with 3,200 motorcycles sold (+12%), now the Bologna-based bike manufacturer’s fifth most important market.

This positive end to 2019 allows Ducati to look into the future with confidence. For 2020, the product range is now even more complete and dealerships will soon be taking delivery of the long-awaited Streetfighter V4. The Panigale can – in addition to the introduction of the new V2 – also count on a major upgrade to the V4 that will boost performance and enhance rideability.

For globetrotters and those who want to enjoy long-distance adventures in outstanding comfort, the Multistrada family sees the arrival of the new Grand Tour.

Last but not least, the Ducati Scrambler range – which saw the new 800 Dark presented at EICMA – will see the introduction of a new model in the coming months.

Village Idiots Fielding Team In 2020 CMRA ULW Endurance Series

The Village Idiots Kawasaki Ninja 400 ULW endurance racebike. Photo courtesy of Village Idiots.
The Village Idiots Kawasaki Ninja 400 ULW endurance racebike. Photo courtesy of Village Idiots.

Village Idiots making a comeback in 2020 CMRA ULW Endurance Series

 

Dallas, Texas – Village Idiots endurance team announces that they will be competing in the 2020 CMRA ULW Endurance series aboard a 2019 Kawasaki Ninja 400. Village Idiots, multi-time overall endurance champions (2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2017) in the CMRA Championship Big Bike Endurance series are proven winners in endurance racing. With the Championship Big Bike Endurance sunset in 2017, the Idiots have decided to compete in the popular and highly competitive CMRA ULW Endurance series.

The team consists of some of the top riders in the CMRA series.

John Orchard (Team Owner)

Chris Headley (Team Captain)

Cory Burleson

Michael Klesel

Derek Thomas

 

John Orchard, Village Idiots Team Owner, states: “We are excited to be bringing the Village Idiots back together to compete in the CMRA ULW Endurance series. During the off-season we prepped two new Kawasaki Ninja 400’s with great support from our outstanding sponsors. For this year’s team, long time Idiots Chris and Cory are back, and we’ve added Mike and Derek as new Idiots for 2020. The new Idiots both have solid race experience and we are all friends on and off the track. The CMRA puts on the best series in North America with top notch competition and with the support of our sponsors we have a competitive bike to combine with a solid team that promises be a lot of fun for 2020!”

 

The Village Idiots would like to thank their sponsors who are onboard for the 2020 season:

RaceworX, RES, Dunlop, M4, Drippin Wet, Woodcraft, G-Man racing, Moto Liberty, Shorai, HD painting, FastFrank.

 

The first round of a 6 round endurance series will be at MSR Houston in Angleton, Texas February 15, 2020. More information can be found on the CMRA website: http://www.cmraracing.com/2020-schedule/

 

Keep up with the Village Idiots at: https://www.facebook.com/VillageIdiotsEnduranceRacing

Former EBR World Superbikes, Splitlath Motorsport Racebikes For Sale

An ex-Larry Pegram Hero EBR 1190 World Superbike. Photo courtesy of NCCR.
An ex-Larry Pegram Hero EBR 1190 World Superbike. Photo courtesy of NCCR.

EBR Erik Buell Racing WSBK and Road racing icons for sale

Even if Erik Buell’s last chapter did not ultimately lead to an economical success, the last years of his work with the V-Twin from East Troy / Wisconsin mark for sure the peak of his attempts to build the ultimate American Sportsbike. From 2013 on, the race program ramped up internationally with the EBR 1190 RS and John Dimbylow´s Splitlath motorsport on the Isle of Man TT and Macau GP. For the 2014 season, EBR announced to join even the World Superbike Series where rider Geoff May and Aaron Yates completed the first WSBK season for Erik Buell Racing.

For 2015, the team announced Niccolò Canepa and Larry Pegram as riders, but in the middle of the season, with the bikes ready prepared for the next round in Imola, investor and name giving team sponsor HERO decided to discontinue the cooperation in 2015, so Team HERO EBR was forced to withdraw over night from the World Championship.

UK based Splitlath Motorsport jumped in and continued in 2015 and 2016 as factory race team with US riders Mark Miller, Cory West and Shelina Morena on the Isle of Man, Macau and very successfully in China.

NCCR in Sweden, owned by the Krüper family, well known for their engagement in the Buell world for more than 2 decades, offer now the bikes and other inventory from the final race programs of Erik Buell Racing.

Prices start a 35.000€ for the RS bikes and at 45.000€ for the WSBK.

Jens Krüper of NCCR “It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity to have this stock of bikes and parts on hand, the Buell world needs to thank John Dimbylow of Splitlath Motorsport for holding these things together all these years. It’s just amazing, these 10 bikes and the huge amount of parts are the essence of Erik’s work with the V-Twins and outstanding pieces of Motorsport history”.

John Dimbylow of Splitlath Motorsport, “I really didn’t want any of the equipment to go, particularly the bikes as I had formed such an affinity with the brand and the guys at East Troy, it was such a pleasure to work with them and to be part of the development of such incredible pioneering machinery. The bikes had become part of me and what was the most enjoyable few years of racing that I had. We are very proud of what we achieved with Erik Buell, but the bikes were just gathering dust and I decided that they would have a better life with Owners who would use them or cherish them in a better way than I could”.

Julia Krüper Technician at NCCR, “The parts inventory is huge and it will take us some time to list it all online. Also, we first like to see what parts will go with the bikes. As we are hoping for buyers who actually use the bikes, we expect at least one set of spare wheels to go with each of them. It’s cool to have all the last factory technologies finally here in house and we will surely learn a lot for our future projects with the 1190 engine”.

Birgit Krüper CEO at NCCR, “All bikes will be delivered race ready with full historical and technical documentation. For some bikes we even have the original trophies and posters. The plan is also to run a program of Racing Memorabilia, what will include used parts, posters and art to honor this latest chapter of Buell Factory motorsport”.

Video: American Racing Episode Four Focuses On Sean Dylan Kelly, Cameron Petersen

Former-racer-turned-videographer Gray Pham, age 19, has produced a new, eight-part video documentary series focused on riders in the MotoAmerica AMA/FIM North American Road Racing series called “American Racing.”

This is Part Four of the video series and it focuses on racers Sean Dylan Kelly and Cameron Petersen at the Road America round of the 2019 MotoAmerica season.

Team America Also Competing For FIM Oceania Historic Cup At Phillip Island

Four-time AMA Superbike Champion Josh Hayes (4) will once again ride for Mojo Yamaha's Team USA in the Phillip Island International Challenge. Photo by Russell Colvin, courtesy of Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit.
Four-time AMA Superbike Champion Josh Hayes (4) will once again ride for Mojo Yamaha's Team USA in the Phillip Island International Challenge. Photo by Russell Colvin, courtesy of Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit.

AUSTRALIA VS AMERICA IN THE 2020 FIM OCEANIA HISTORIC ROAD RACE CUP

 

Australia will take on America in the 2020 FIM Oceania Historic Road Race Cup, a title to be keenly fought at Phillip Island’s International Island Classic historic bike meet, this Australia Day long weekend January 24-26.

 

For 2020, the Cup’s competition will focus on the International Challenge, with the top five performers from each country combining their points in a bid to win the crown.

 

Both Australia and America are campaigning super strong teams with decades of race experience between them.

 

America boasts the likes of four-time AMA Superbike champion Josh Hayes, 13-times Canadian champion Jordan Szoke, the first female to ever contest the International Challenge Melissa Paris, plus Larry Pegram, Michael Gilbert and AMA front-runner Taylor Knapp.

 

The bike of choice for the majority of the Americans will again be the Mojo Yamaha based CMR FJ 1250 prepared by captain Dave Crussell and his crew, and three potent Yamaha TZ750’s.

 

Australia though is not to be outdone with machinery prepared by Australian captain, Rex Wolfenden, and dominated by a raft of Suzuki Katanas and a XR60.    There’s also an Irving Vincent in the fleet, a Honda Harris, and two Yamaha TZs.

 

The local team will benefit from home circuit advantage, with a field of ace riders who know Phillip Island intimately and between them have amassed several historic racing titles.

 

The Aussie riders include Island Classic stars of recent years – Steve Martin, Dave Johnson, Jed Metcher and Shawn Giles – plus a roster boasting the speed and experience of 2019 pace-setter Aaron Morris, Cam Donald, Beau Beaton and Alex Phillis.

 

The FIM Oceania title was launched in 2017, with Australia winning the first two years, but being knocked from their pedestal in 2019 when the format changed to non-International Challenge events and New Zealand took the prize.

 

In 2020, the Oceania title-fight returns to the original format as the majority of Americans travelling to Australia for the Classic are racing in the International Challenge.

 

“We are excited to be part of the Oceania title for the first time this year and we’re expecting a tough fight,” said American team captain, Dave Crussell.   “In 2020 we have our strongest core team ever to challenge the Aussies on their home turf.

 

“2019 was a non-stop year for us, with bike improvements and supplementing the core of our riders. Our top 3 riders from 2019 are returning to the Classic in 2020 and we have added to this base. Big thanks to Larry Cook (LC Racing), Denis Curtis (CMR Racing) and Dunlop for their continued support of our team.”

 

Australian captain, Rex Wolfenden, is cautious.   “I am expecting a tight contest.  The Americans have a very strong team,” he said.

 

“The Aussie boys are up for it, as always.  They just want to win and get the FIM Oceania Cup back with us.  Close hard racing is what the fans come to see and I am sure this title fight will produce just that.”

 

FIM Oceania President, Glen Williams, was excited about the prospect of the American onslaught.

“This year, the battle intensifies as the Australians take on the Americans, with both fielding strong teams,” said FIM Oceania President, Glen Williams.

 

“The Cup will again be staged as part of the 2020 International Island Classic which is a standout event for the Oceania region.

 

“FIM Oceania is responsible for developing motorcycle sport within Oceania whether in the form of junior road racing, motocross, speedway and via this exciting event of FIM Oceania Historic Road Race Cup.  I’m sure the 2020 Cup will be brilliant and add another dimension to the historic festivities’’.

Tickets available at www.islandclassic.com.au

The southern hemisphere’s largest historic meet, the International Island Classic, will be held this Australia Day weekend, January 24-26, at Phillip Island.   Go to www.islandclassic.com.au for tickets and on-circuit camping, and get planning an action-packed and affordable Australia Day long weekend away with your mates.

American Flat Track: Latus Motors Fielding James Rispoli In Production Twins

James Rispoli. Photo by Scott Hunter, courtesy of AFT.
James Rispoli. Photo by Scott Hunter, courtesy of AFT.

Latus Motors Racing Recruits Rispoli for AFT Production Twins

Former Grand National Champion Joe Kopp to serve as Team Manager

 

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (January 13, 2020) – Latus Motors Racing is set to return to the American Flat Track scene in a major way with the announcement the team has signed James “The Rocket” Rispoli to contest the 2020 AFT Production Twins championship aboard a Harley-Davidson XG750R.

 

The development represents a dream pairing of a versatile rider with a versatile team who have independently enjoyed monumental success across multiple disciplines of two-wheeled sport.

 

28-year-old Rispoli is coming off an impressive 2019 season in which he seamlessly returned to his dirt track roots following a decade chasing roadracing wins and championships on both sides of the Atlantic.

 

Last season, Rispoli scored four podiums in AFT Production Twins action, ultimately finishing sixth in the championship, despite missing the opening round of the title fight. The performance served as a strong reminder of the fan favorite’s natural flat track skills, which he’d previously leveraged to take second overall in the 2009 AFT Singles standings.

 

Gladstone, Oregon-based Latus Motors Racing has a long association with American Flat Track racing. In the mid-2000s, Latus Motors garnered numerous race wins and top-three championship finishes while serving as the title sponsor for the 2000 Grand National Champion Joe Kopp. Subsequently, Latus and Kopp formed an inhouse Triumph-based effort that finished on the podium in the premier class of American Flat Track racing as recently as 2015.

 

Like Rispoli, Latus Motors Racing branched out into other forms of motorcycle sport to remarkable results. The team established itself a serious contender on multiple makes and in multiple series, including taking a dramatic triumph in the prestigious DAYTONA 200 in 2011.

 

Team owner George Latus, said, “I was involved in flat track for a lot of years, and more recently we were heavily involved in road racing. We kind of put a hold on things for a couple of years, but we saw the direction American Flat Track was going, and it’s moving forward in a very positive way. We were looking to get back into it and recognized the potential of the Harley-Davidson XG750R and the Production Twins class as the perfect way to do that.

 

“I’ve raced against James for many years. He’s got a great attitude, and he’s a terrific competitor. I’m excited to have the opportunity to work with him.”

 

Team Manager Kopp said, “One of the big benefits James brings to our program is the electronics knowledge he gained last year helping Vance & Hines to tune the bikes. The way the sport is going, you have to some comfort playing with that stuff, and he’s definitely on top of that more than just about any rider that I know out there. That’s going to be huge.

 

“We’re excited. We’re going to come out swinging, and I think we’re going to surprise some people for sure with the Harley out there.”

 

Rispoli said, “I couldn’t be happier with the opportunity to race the XG750R for Latus Motors Racing. My relationship with Mr. Latus goes back a decade when we first discussed the possibility of me riding for his road race team. I’ve raced against his teams for a long time, so I’m very familiar with exactly how well prepared his team is and how serious they are about winning. I’m also thrilled to be working with Joe. I have a huge amount of respect for him, and I was extremely excited when he gave me a call and told me he was looking forward to working with me too.

 

“Last year’s experience riding and developing the XG750R makes me confident we can fight for wins and the title the 2020. I’ve reunited with personal trainer Richie Perperian — who helped me win two AMA Pro SuperSport championships — to make sure I take maximum advantage of this awesome opportunity. We’re already off and rolling.”

 

Tickets for the first-ever doubleheader – DAYTONA 200 and DAYTONA TT – at the legendary Daytona International Speedway are on sale now. Watch both historic motorcycle racing events during Bike Week at DAYTONA for just $35 when you purchase an advance General Admission ticket online. Get yours at www.americanflattrack.com.

 

For more information on American Flat Track visit www.americanflattrack.com.

 

To get the latest American Flat Track clothing and merchandise visit www.americanflattracker.com.

 

How to Watch:

NBCSN and TrackPass on NBC Sports Gold are the official homes for coverage of American Flat Track. For the 2020 season, NBCSN’s coverage of AFT remains in highly-coveted programming slots within two weeks of each event. The complete schedule for AFT on NBCSN can be viewed at http://www.americanflattrack.com/events-nbcsn/. TrackPass on NBC Sports Gold – the most-robust motorsports offering in the digital marketplace – is a cornerstone of AFT’s digital strategy, providing live streaming coverage of every event and maintaining an active archive of all AFT content.

 

About American Flat Track:

American Flat Track is the world’s premier dirt track motorcycle racing series and one of the longest-running championships in the history of motorsports. Sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing in Daytona Beach, Fla., the series is highly regarded as the most competitive form of dirt track motorcycle racing on the globe. For more information on American Flat Track, please visit http://www.americanflattrack.com, like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, check us out on Instagram, live stream the events with TrackPass on NBC Sports Gold and catch all the American Flat Track racing action on NBCSN.

World Endurance: Xavier Simeon Joins Suzuki Endurance Racing Team

Simeon (right) is replacing the retiring Vincent Philippe (left) on the Suzuki Endurance Racing Team. Photo by Daniel Lencina, courtesy of Team Suzuki Press Office.
Simeon (right) is replacing the retiring Vincent Philippe (left) on the Suzuki Endurance Racing Team. Photo by Daniel Lencina, courtesy of Team Suzuki Press Office.

Belgian rider Xavier Simeon has joined Suzuki Endurance Racing Team for the 2019-2020 EWC Championship to ride alongside Etienne Masson and Gregg Black aboard the GSX-R1000.

Simeon will replace Vincent Philippe, who has retired after earning 10 of SERT’s world titles, 16 years with the team and a total of nine Bol d’Or victories.

Simeon has won a 600 Superstock title in 2006 with Hamamatsu and taken a podium of the 2009 FIM Superstock 1000 Championship. He has also had experience in Moto2 and MotoGP.

With EWC recently boosted with the new emergence of pilots from MotoGP, WSBK and other motorcycle championships, the team feels that Simeon is a perfect example of that and new SERT Team Manager Damien Saulnier is effectively counting on those qualities and skills the current championship leaders look to collect a further title.

Etienne Masson:

“We got to know each other this year. He’s a hard-headed and humble person. He’s a fast rider with a dynamic pace. It’s our duty as riders to make him feel comfortable and share our experience. He has to experience the overall potential of our motorcycle which is quite different from the one he has been riding in the previous season in EWC. I am very confident because Xavier has experience in the mastery of race motorcycles.”

Gregg Black:

“I’ve known Xavier since 2005. We worked on the same tracks until 2010. He is an efficient pilot and a friend as well. Even if he has only been racing for a year in EWC, he already has great experience in motorcycle competition. I am sure we’ll do a great job together and Xavier has earned my trust. That is why I arranged a meeting between him and Damien (Saulnier) some time ago. With Etienne and Xavier, we share the same objectives and way of thinking.”

Damien Saulnier – SERT Team Manager:

“The arrival of Xavier Simeon in the team is a great addition to the 2020 season. And even better is that our three riders already know each other. Xavier’s experience in GP is an undeniable asset. Etienne, Gregg and Xavier have a similar profile and I am sure that their teamwork will set a new momentum within the SERT.”

Moto2: Hafizh Syahrin Receiving Government Subsidy To Continue Racing

Hafizh Syahrin (55). Photo courtesy of KTM.
Hafizh Syahrin (55). Photo courtesy of KTM.

Malaysian rider Hahizh Syahrin, age 25, will receive a grant from his home country to subsidize his new ride on the Angel Nieto Team in the 2020 FIM Moto2 World Championship.

 

Syahrin was recruited as a last-minute fill in for Jonas Folger on the Monster Energy Yamaha Tech3 team in the 2018 MotoGP World Championship, and he did well, scoring 46 points and nearly earning the MotoGP Rookie of the Year award.

 

That performance earned Syahrin the opportunity to remain with Tech3 as it switched from Yamaha to KTM and raced as the Red Bull KTM Tech3 team in the 2019 MotoGP World Championship. Syahrin, however, struggled to get results on the KTM RC16 in 2019, his contract was not renewed for 2020, and he lost his spot in the MotoGP World Championship.

 

Syahrin then landed a ride with the Angel Nieto Team in the 2020 Moto2 World Championship, but according to a January 10 report on freemalaysiatoday.com, Syahrin does not receive a salary or travel expenses with the ride and has been unable to find sponsors to cover his needs.

 

Now, the Malaysian government, specifically the Youth and Sports Ministry boss Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman, plans to give Syahrin a grant from the National Sports Trust Fund, according to the report.

 

“I will help him as much as I can because before this [our focus] was to find sponsors from corporate companies,” Rahman was quoted as saying to reporters.  “I have discussed the matter with the ministry’s top management, and we are still waiting for Hafizh’s application. We will continue to find ways to help him.”

 

Rahman also called on Malaysian businesses to step up to help Syahrin.

Ducati Diavel 1260 S Wins “Good Design Award”

A 2020-model Ducati Diavel 1260 S. Photo courtesy of Ducati.
A 2020-model Ducati Diavel 1260 S. Photo courtesy of Ducati.

The Diavel 1260 S wins the Good Design Award

Another prestigious prize for the unique Diavel 1260 design

A true style icon, the Diavel 1260 continues its winning streak in international design competitions

Powerful and beefy, this motorcycle combines maxi-naked performance with muscle cruiser ergonomics

Borgo Panigale (Bologna, Italy)– Design and sheer personality have always been an essential part of every Ducati motorcycle and winning international awards proves just how dedicated the company is to these aspects.

An undisputed style icon, the Diavel 1260 S – after winning the prestigious European design prize, the Red Dot Award – has now gone on to enjoy success in the United States where the Bologna-built muscle cruiser has clinched the Good Design Award.

Assigned by the Chicago Athenaeum, Museum of Architecture and Design, and by the European Centre for Architecture Art Design and Urban Studies, the Good Design Award is one of the most sought-after prizes, one that has been acknowledging and certifying global excellence in design since 1950.

Powerful and beefy, the Diavel 1260 combines maxi-naked performance with muscle cruiser ergonomics. The second-generation of this incredibly special bike remains faithful to the spirit of the original, drawing on its key styling elements yet bringing them decidedly up to date. Its meticulous design seamlessly incorporates the bike’s beating heart, the 159 hp Testastretta DVT 1262 engine. For 2020 the unconventional, unmistakeable Diavel 1260 will be sporting two new colour schemes, namely Dark Stealth (a total black look, available for the standard version) and an all-new Ducati Red with white trims and red seat tail (on the S version) to emphasise the sport performance and power-cruiser spirit of this original bike in inimitable Ducati style.

MotoAmerica: Toni Elias Joins M4 ECSTAR Suzuki

Toni Elias (shown with son Antoni) will join Team Hammer for the 2020 MotoAmerica Superbike Championship on an M4 ECSTAR Suzuki GSX-R1000. Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy of Suzuki Motor of America, Inc.
Toni Elias (shown with son Antoni) will join Team Hammer for the 2020 MotoAmerica Superbike Championship on an M4 ECSTAR Suzuki GSX-R1000. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.

Brea, CA (January 10, 2020) – Team Hammer is happy to announce that Spanish superstar Toni Elias will spearhead its M4 ECSTAR Suzuki program in MotoAmerica Superbike as the team steps up to take on the role of Suzuki’s premier road race team in the United States.

Entering his fifth season racing in the MotoAmerica AMA/FIM North American Superbike Series, Elias has already established himself as one of the series’ all-time greats.

The Spaniard took the series by storm in 2016, winning the first three MotoAmerica Superbike races of his career on the all-new Suzuki GSX-R1000, and he hasn’t eased up since. After finishing his rookie campaign ranked third, Elias won the 2017 MotoAmerica Superbike Championship and followed that up with runner-up finishes in 2018 and 2019.

Arguably even more impressive than his season-long accomplishments are the physics-defying feats he pulls off in a relentless pursuit of the checkered flag. One of the most spectacular riders in the world, Elias executes near-impossible passes and notches up wins at a dizzying pace.

In just four seasons, he has already racked up 32 MotoAmerica Superbike wins, tying him with the legendary Miguel DuHamel for fourth in AMA Superbike history.

Elias was already a highly decorated rider before he arrived on the American scene. Prior to coming to MotoAmerica, Elias was the 2010 Moto2 World Champion and a Grand Prix race winner in the MotoGP, Moto2, 250cc, and 125cc World Championships.

In joining the team, Elias continues an association with Suzuki Motor of America, Inc. spanning his MotoAmerica career. It also sees him join forces with a highly experienced racing outfit entering its fourth decade of competition with seven AMA Pro and MotoAmerica National titles, 83 victories, and 234 podiums to its credit.

Elias said, “I am excited for this new way and happy to build something together with Suzuki and Team Hammer. The goal is to keep performing at the same high level, continuing to win races, earn the podium, and fight for the championship. We have a lot of work to do as the competition will be strong, so we know we must do a nice job and have a good effort. We are very determined and I am happy to get this opportunity.”

Additional M4 ECSTAR Suzuki riders will be announced soon.

 

About Suzuki: Suzuki Motor of America, Inc. (SMAI) distributes Motorcycles, ATVs, Scooters, Outboard Motors and Automotive Parts and Accessories via an extensive dealer network throughout 49 states. Suzuki Motor Corporation (SMC), based in Hamamatsu, Japan, is a diversified worldwide manufacturer of Motorcycles, ATVs, Scooters, Automobiles, Outboard Motors and related products. Founded in 1909 and incorporated in 1920, SMC has business relations with 201 countries/regions. For more information, visit www.suzuki.com.

About Team Hammer: The 2020 season will mark Team Hammer’s 40th consecutive year of operating as a professional road racing team. Racebikes built and fielded by Team Hammer have won 83 AMA Pro and MotoAmerica National races, have finished on AMA Pro and MotoAmerica National podiums 234 times and have won seven AMA Pro and MotoAmerica National Championships, as well as two FIM South American Championships (in Superbike and Supersport). The team has also won 137 endurance races overall (including seven 24-hour races) and 13 Overall WERA National Endurance Championships with Suzuki motorcycles, and holds the U.S. record for mileage covered in a 24-hour race. The team also competed in the televised 1990s Formula USA National Championship, famously running “Methanol Monster” GSX-R1100 Superbikes fueled by methanol, and won four F-USA Championships.