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ASRA/CCS Updates Tentative 2020 Race Schedules

David Swarts
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ASRA/CCS Updates Tentative 2020 Race Schedules

AMA Sanctioned ASRA Championship Series Presented by Pirelli Tire

2/29-3/1           Roebling Road Raceway, Bloomingdale, GA

3/13-15            Daytona International Speedway, Daytona Beach, FL

4/25-26            New Jersey Motorsports Park (Thunderbolt), Millville, NJ

5/23-25            Summit Point Motorsports Park (Main), Summit Point, WV

6/13-14            Blackhawk Farms Raceway, S. Beloit, IL

7/18-19            Road America, Elkhart Lake, WI

9/19-20            VIRginia International Raceway, Alton, VA

10/17-18          Daytona International Speedway, Daytona Beach, FL

For additional info, call (817) 246-1127, FAX (817) 246-2977, [email protected], www.asraracing.com.

 

AMA Sanctioned ASRA Team Challenge Series Presented by Michelin Tire

2/29                 Roebling Road Raceway, Bloomingdale, GA

4/5                   Carolina Motorsports Park, Kershaw, SC

5/17                 Blackhawk Farms Raceway, S. Beloit, IL

6/19                 New Hampshire Motor Speedway, Loudon, NH

7/18                 Road America, Elkhart Lake, WI

8/16                 Summit Point Motorsports Park (Main), Summit Point, WV

9/6                   New Jersey Motorsports Park (Thunderbolt), Millville, NJ

9/19                 VIRginia International Raceway, Alton, VA

10/17               Daytona International Speedway, Daytona Beach, FL

For additional info, call (817) 246-1127, FAX (817) 246-2977, [email protected], www.asraracing.com.

 

CCS Atlantic Roadracing Championship Series

4/4-5                Carolina Motorsports Park, Kershaw, SC**

4/25-26            New Jersey Motorsports Park (Thunderbolt), Millville, NJ*

5/23-25            Summit Point Motorsports Park (Main), Summit Point, WV

6/19-21            New Hampshire Motor Speedway, Loudon, NH>

7/4-5                New Jersey Motorsports Park (Thunderbolt), Millville, NJ

8/1-2                NCBike, Garysburg, NC

8/15-16            Summit Point Motorsports Park (Main), Summit Point, WV

9/5-6                New Jersey Motorsports Park (Thunderbolt), Millville, NJ**

*=Double Points, **=Twin Sprint, >=Hosted by LRRS

For additional info, call (817) 246-1127, FAX (817) 246-2977, [email protected], www.ccsracing.us.

 

CCS Florida Roadracing Championship Series

2/8-9                Homestead-Miami Speedway, Homestead, FL*, #

2/29-3/1           Roebling Road Raceway, Bloomingdale, GA

3/13-15            Daytona International Speedway, Daytona Beach, FL*

4/4-5                Carolina Motorsports Park, Kershaw, SC**

8/22-23            Roebling Road Raceway, Bloomingdale, GA**

10/16-18          Daytona International Speedway, Daytona Beach, FL

12/5-6              Homestead-Miami Speedway, Homestead, FL*, #

*=Double Points, **=Twin Sprint, #=Saturday Practice

For additional info, call (817) 246-1127, FAX (817) 246-2977, [email protected], www.ccsracing.us.

 

CCS/LRRS Northeast Roadracing Championship Series

5/2-3                New Hampshire Motor Speedway, Loudon, NH>

5/16-17            New Hampshire Motor Speedway, Loudon, NH>

6/19-21            New Hampshire Motor Speedway, Loudon, NH>

7/4-5                New Jersey Motorsports Park (Thunderbolt), Millville, NJ

8/1-2                New Hampshire Motor Speedway, Loudon, NH>

8/29-30            New Hampshire Motor Speedway, Loudon, NH>

9/19-20            New Hampshire Motor Speedway, Loudon, NH>

10/3-4              New Hampshire Motor Speedway, Loudon, NH>

>=Hosted by LRRS

For additional info, call (817) 246-1127, FAX (817) 246-2977, [email protected], www.ccsracing.us.

 

CCS Mid-Atlantic Roadracing Championship Series

2/29-3/1           Roebling Road Raceway, Bloomingdale, GA*

3/15-17            Daytona International Speedway, Daytona Beach, FL*

4/25-26            New Jersey Motorsports Park (Thunderbolt), Millville, NJ*

5/23-25            Summit Point Motorsports Park (Main), Summit Point, WV#

6/13-14            Summit Point Motorsports Park (Main), Summit Point, WV**

6/19-21            New Hampshire Motor Speedway, Loudon, NH>

7/4-5                New Jersey Motorsports Park (Thunderbolt), Millville, NJ

8/1-2                NCBike, Garysburg, NC

8/15-16            Summit Point Motorsports Park (Main), Summit Point, WV

9/19-20            VIRginia International Raceway, Alton, VA*

*=Double Points, **=Twin Sprint, #=Saturday Practice, >=Hosted by LRRS

For additional info, call (817) 246-1127, FAX (817) 246-2977, [email protected], www.ccsracing.us.

 

CCS Mid-West Roadracing Championship Series

5/2-3                Autobahn Country Club (North), Joliet, IL*, #

5/16-17            Blackhawk Farms Raceway, South Beloit, IL#

6/13-14            Blackhawk Farms Raceway, South Beloit, IL#

6/20-21            Brainerd International Raceway, Brainerd, MN**,>

7/18-19            Road America, Elkhart Lake, WI**

8/1-2                Blackhawk Farms Raceway, South Beloit, IL**

9/19-20            Blackhawk Farms Raceway, South Beloit, IL*

*=Double Points, **=Twin Sprint, #=Saturday Practice, >=Hosted by CRA

For additional info, call (817) 246-1127, FAX (817) 246-2977, [email protected], www.ccsracing.us.

 

CCS Southeast Roadracing Championship Series

2/29-3/1           Roebling Road Raceway, Bloomingdale, GA*

3/13-15            Daytona International Speedway, Daytona Beach, FL*

4/4-5                Carolina Motorsports Park, Kershaw, SC**

6/13-14            Summit Point Motorsports Park (Main), Summit Point, WV**

8/1-2                NCBike, Garysburg, NC

8/22-23            Roebling Road Raceway, Bloomingdale, GA**

9/19-20            VIRginia International Raceway, Alton, VA*

10/17-18          Daytona International Speedway, Daytona Beach, FL

*=Double Points, **=Twin Sprint

For additional info, call (817) 246-1127, FAX (817) 246-2977, [email protected], www.ccsracing.us.

 

MotoGirlGT Roadracing Championship Series (Tentative)

2/29-3/1           Roebling Road Raceway, Bloomingdale, GA

3/13-15            Daytona International Speedway, Daytona Beach, FL

4/25-26            New Jersey Motorsports Park (Thunderbolt), Millville, NJ

5/23-25            Summit Point Motorsports Park (Main), Summit Point, WV#

6/13-14            Summit Point Motorsports Park (Main), Summit Point, WV**

6/19-21            New Hampshire Motor Speedway, Loudon, NH>

7/4-5                New Jersey Motorsports Park (Thunderbolt), Millville, NJ

7/18-19            Road America, Elkhart Lake, WI**

8/15-16            Summit Point Motorsports Park (Main), Summit Point, WV

9/5-6                New Jersey Motorsports Park (Thunderbolt), Millville, NJ

9/19-20            VIRginia International Raceway, Alton, VA

10/17-18          Daytona International Speedway, Daytona Beach, FL

**=Twin Sprint, #=Saturday practice, >=Hosted by LRRS

 

37th Annual CCS Race of Champions

10/16-18          Daytona International Speedway, Daytona Beach, FL

For additional info, call (817) 246-1127, FAX (817) 246-2977, [email protected], www.ccsracing.us.

Husqvarna Confirms Norden 901 Adventure Tourer Will Go Into Production

David Swarts
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Husqvarna Confirms Norden 901 Adventure Tourer Will Go Into Production

HUSQVARNA MOTORCYCLES TO LAUNCH FIRST TRAVEL MOTORCYCLE

NORDEN 901 CONCEPT CONFIRMED FOR PRODUCTION IN HUSQVARNA MOTORCYCLES’ STREET LINE-UP

Following the extremely successful unveiling of the NORDEN 901 Concept model at EICMA, Husqvarna Motorcycles are pleased to announce that this exciting, new twin-cylinder machine will go into production, a move that underlines Husqvarna Motorcycles’ growing commitment to the street segment.

Breaking cover for the first time during the International Motorcycle show in Italy, the NORDEN 901 received high levels of interest from the hundreds of thousands of attending motorcycle fans as well as the motorcycle media. Now set to become a key addition to Husqvarna Motorcycles’ street line-up, the dynamic and versatile long-distance traveller will offer the modern motorcycle rider a balance of practical accessibility and comfort.

Forming Husqvarna Motorcycles’ vision of an adventure-touring motorcycle, the NORDEN 901 is a dynamic, twin-cylinder motorcycle that features advanced rider ergonomics and high performance based on years of rally experience. Featuring distinct, modern design, it delivers both outstanding street and offroad performance. Class-leading lightness and power delivery is set in a versatile and accessible package, precisely arranged to allow discerning riders uncompromised exploration possibilities. Delivering effortless rideability and high-end modern equipment the NORDEN 901 can be used on daily commutes, extended adventures and everything in between.

 

A Husqvarna Norden 901. Photo courtesy of Husqvarna.
A Husqvarna Norden 901. Photo courtesy of Husqvarna.

TECHNICAL HIGHLIGHTS

=> Slim and light adventure touring motorcycle

• 889.5 cc parallel twin engine specifically tuned for adventure usage

=> Perfect balance between offroad performance and touring ability

• 21” front wheel, 18” rear => Comfortable ergonomics and confidence inspiring handling

=> High quality WP suspension components

 

Further information related to the NORDEN 901 will be released by Husqvarna Motorcycles as it nears market launch.

MotoStudent 2020: Missouri University Team Needs An R&D Rider/Racer For Event At MotorLand Aragon

John Ulrich
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MotoStudent 2020: Missouri University Team Needs An R&D Rider/Racer For Event At MotorLand Aragon

The Missouri University of Science and Technology’s Miner Motorcycle Design Team needs a qualified rider able to assist in R&D test riding for the October 2020 MotoStudent Competition run by the Moto Engineering Foundation at MotorLand Aragon in Alcaniz, Spain.

The MotoStudent competition is a university based program in which student teams receive a 250cc KTM prototype engine and then design and build the rest of the motorcycle. The Miner Motorcycle Design Team needs an experienced rider to assist in R&D and fine-tuning of the bike through testing, trial and error. The rider will act as the team’s primary rider for all team activities, as well as the final event held at MotorLand Aragon.

Starting grid for a past MotoStudent race at MotorLand Aragon.

The competition includes a braking test, a gymkhana (maneuvering through a course outlined by cones), an acceleration test (a.k.a. drag race), and a final nine-lap road race against all the other university prototypes on the MotorLand Aragon Grand Prix racetrack!

 

 

 

Rider Qualifications include:

–Must be at least 18 years old as of October 1st, 2020.

–Must have a valid passport.

–Must be available the first two weeks of October 2020 to travel to Spain with the design team.

–Must NOT have participated in FIM-sanctioned international events in road racing, motocross, enduro, rallies, or track racing (flat track or speedway). Exceptions may be available for wild card riders.

The rider will provide all his or her personal safety gear and equipment. The Miner Motorcycle Design Team is prepared to cover all the travel costs associated with getting from St. Louis, Missouri to the MotoLand Aragon racetrack in Alcaniz, Spain.

Interested riders should email Mason George at [email protected] or [email protected]

Another way to contact the Miner Motorcycle Design Team is via their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/miner.motostudent/?hc_location=ufi

 

About The Moto Engineering Foundation

The non-profit Moto Engineering Foundation was created in 2008 to promote technological development in the motorcycle and four-wheel vehicles sector, as well as innovation, research, testing activities, and technician training at all levels. It is located in the Two Wheels Technical Center (2WTC) in TechnoPark MotorLand, along with companies related to the motor sector investing in R&D. This environment fosters synergies between universities, technology centers and companies located in the Technology Park itself. In addition, labs, test facilities, and test tracks are located nearby. Sponsors and employers include the government of Aragon (state), DORNA, Anesdor, RFME, MotorLand Aragon, Zaragoza (city) University, Zaragoza Business Confederation, Faram, and CGCOII.

Goals of the Moto Engineering Foundation

–Carry out technical research and economic tasks aimed at the promotion and management of the 2WTC and the projects of the Moto Engineering Foundation (MEF) itself.

–Energize the economy of the area by attracting and promoting new research projects from anywhere in the state and even abroad.

–Concentrate technological services related to the motorcycle industry and 4-wheel vehicles (development, tests and trials), both competition, and commercial and industrial.

–Become a benchmark at the state level as a complement to small industry in research and development.

–To facilitate the development, as future professionals, of university students as well as the practical application in the company of the knowledge acquired in the university.

MotoGP: Video Interview With Franco Morbidelli

David Swarts
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MotoGP: Video Interview With Franco Morbidelli

Morbidelli: ‘I’m a better rider than at the beginning of 2019’

Franco Morbidelli reflects on first MotoGP season with PETRONAS Yamaha SRT

2019 saw former Moto2 World Champion Franco Morbidelli take a big step forward in his sophomore season in MotoGP as he and PETRONAS Yamaha Sepang Racing Team linked up. Securing four front-row starts, finishing as top Independent Rider on three occasions and matching his best-ever finish of fifth four times, he also helped the team to secure the honour of Independent Teams Champion as well as finishing inside the top ten of the overall MotoGP World Championship.

With the 2019 season at a close, we sat down with Franco to discuss his highs and lows of the year.

How different are you from the Franco Morbidelli who joined the team one year ago?

“As a person, I’m not much, much different, but as a rider, I hope that I’ve grown up a lot and I think that we did grow together as a whole crew. Most importantly, I’ve improved my knowledge of the bike that I’m riding, and I think that the end result of that is that I’m a better rider than I was at the beginning of 2019.”

Would you have been happy with the 2019 season in November 2018?

“For the speed that I had in 2019, yes, I’d have been happy with this past year. Looking back now, I think I was hoping for better results in terms of position, but the speed we were able to show was really good throughout the year. Because of that, if I had to rate the season from one to ten it would be a seven.”

What have you learned in 2019 and what do you want to learn for 2020?

“This past season, the most important thing that I learned is that to be successful in a MotoGP race, it isn’t good enough to just be the fastest guy. You need to have other things as well, and I want to be able to bring those things next year. If I told you what the things I need to do to improve are I would be giving away my secrets though!”

What role did the team play in your 2019 season?

“The team played a pivotal role because it’s them who brought Fabio and me ahead so much this season. Of course, what we all see are the achievements of the riders, but there are many people behind the riders and if the racers are doing well it’s because they’re in a condition that allows them to do well. What this team brings is a very good environment that allows the riders to perform to their best every weekend.”

Franco Morbidelli. Photo courtesy of PETRONAS Yamaha SRT.
Franco Morbidelli. Photo courtesy of PETRONAS Yamaha SRT.

How important were Yamaha this year?

“The Yamaha YZR-M1 is a very nice bike, a very good package. It’s very rider-friendly, and I couldn’t ask for more from it. The people from Yamaha are very nice to work with as well, and we have a great relationship with all the guys, which makes it even better.”

Which of the season’s results are you most proud of and what was the biggest regret?

“Assen was a nice race, especially in the final laps. I was catching up on the opponents in front of me towards the end of the race, and that’s always a nice feeling. The biggest regret of the year; well, I’m just sorry for what happened in Aragon.”

What are your expectations for 2020?

“I expect a hard season in 2020 like it always is in MotoGP. I’m expecting improvements from ourselves too though. From myself as a rider, from our team as a whole team and from my crew as a whole crew. We have one more year of experience gained from working together, so we’ll start the season with everything more in shape. I’m expecting good things!”

What are your plans for the winter break?

“I’ll be all around the world during the break! I’ll do the Sepang 8 Hours in December so I’ll be in Malaysia for a while, then I’ll go skiing and make some time for more bike riding. Then I’ll go to the Caribbean for a while as well, so I’m planning on getting all around!”
 

MotoE World Cup: Team Trentino Gresini Signs Alessandro Zaccone For 2020

David Swarts
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MotoE World Cup: Team Trentino Gresini Signs Alessandro Zaccone For 2020

ZACCONE COMPLETES TEAM TRENTINO GRESINI LINE-UP FOR 2020

Team Trentino Gresini MotoE have now finalised their plans for 2020 with the arrival of Alessandro Zaccone, who will race alongside MotoE’s reigning and defending champion Matteo Ferrari.

The 20-year-old Italian has a history in the Italian Championship of Speed (CIV) in which he became champion of the CBR600RR Cup in 2014 and a present in the CEV, where he was third this year in the Moto2 class (which was dominated by Edgar Pons). He is now joining Gresini in what is a new adventure for him in the all-electric class of MotoGP.

Zaccone’s first shakedown will be on March 10-12 at Jerez de la Frontera – the same track hosting the season debut on the first weekend of May.

ALESSANDRO ZACCONE

“This is surely going to be an interesting challenge and a completely new one for me. I’m very happy with this opportunity and also to be joining such an institution like Team Gresini – which has been a dream since I was a young buy. I will give my 200% to repay Fausto’s trust in me and I expect a great season.”

FAUSTO GRESINI

“Alessandro is a young Italian prospect and that’s exactly the type of rider we were looking for. I always said that the MotoE project must be one for the young riders so I’m happy to be giving this opportunity to a rider that we considered mature enough to step up on the world stage – after doing so well in the CEV Moto2 class this year. We would like to confirm ourselves at the top in 2020 and with thisline-up we will try to do even better than 2019.”

Team Bostrom’s Mitch Hall Wins Grand Prize At Fastrack Academy V

David Swarts
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Team Bostrom’s Mitch Hall Wins Grand Prize At Fastrack Academy V

2019 Fastrack Academy V Results

SAN DIEGO, CA – Fastrack Academy class of 2019 concluded in great fashion on Sunday, December 1st at Auto Club Speedway, in Fontana, California. Team Bostrom’s Mitch Hall took the first place grand prize, a BMW G310R. John Butler, Ben Ahern and Kevin Diec finished a close second, third and fourth, respectively.

Mitch’s comments: “I’ve only been riding a short time and was determined to consume riding knowledge and experience as fast as I could. Why build bad habits that have to be undone later? I met last year’s winner and then Imad shortly after. Both described exactly what I was looking for. The process-oriented instruction was ideal for not just lowering lap times but for truly understanding how my inputs to the machine contributed to each lost second. Fastrack Riders really has something special here with great coaches, staff and a culture that is genuinely fun. I will be spending a fair amount of time in 2020 on the track with Fastrack.”

This was the fifth year running Fastrack Academy. New tests are added to the program each year as a surprise. Gymkhana and a bicycle challenge were also run as a result of their great success in prior years.

“The Fastrack Academy has created friendships and riding achievements that will last a lifetime. In the five years since its inception, the overall riding level and speed has noticeably increased at Fastrack events. I couldn’t be more proud of my team’s achievements and have certainty that any one of our four students had the ability to win the grand prize,” said Eric Bostrom, a former professional road racer with multiple AMA championships and Mitch’s lead coach

Eric’s Assistant Coach Aaron Ascher adds: “Our team was great to work with, and I was honored to be Eric’s assistant for a second time! We put more emphasis on personal development for each of our riders on the team this year and I think the results are a testament of our process. I am super proud of our team and what they have accomplished!”

Mr. Imad Samhat, Fastrack Rider’s owner notes: “I wanted to thank all the participants, not just the winners and finalists but all those that committed and gave it their all in this past round and prior rounds. I’m quite proud of our program as it is has proven itself every time for four years now. In the Academy everyone achieves and everyone has a chance at winning. As the sun sets on this amazing and unique project, we are finalizing the details for introducing yet another creative and unique program in 2020 that jives with our consistent mission of: Ride faster; yet safer. So stay tuned!”

With great support from participating Southern California BMW Dealers (BMW Motorcycles of Riverside, Irv Seaver BMW Motorcyles and New Century BMW Motorcycles), Pirelli Moto Tires and Chicken Hawk Tire Warmers, Fastrack Academy has completed its fifth consecutive year with unquestionable success and continued dedication from top Pros including Eric Bostrom, Jake Zemke, Jeremy Toye, Chris Ulrich, Ben Bostrom, Chris Fillmore, Steve Rapp and Josh Hayes. Follow Fastrack Riders on social media and email any questions directly to [email protected]

ABOUT FASTRACK RIDERS ACADEMY

An exclusive rider development academy led by professional racers. The three-month program offers many prizes including a brand new motorcycle. Every participant who completes the Academy is recognized by the Pro Coaches and receives a Fastrack Riders Certification signed by all the coaches. Some highlights of what the Academy includes: on and off track training from the Pros; in-helmet live communication while on track; in-class and on-board videos; social media involvement and voting.

Academy Video: https://www.facebook.com/fastrackriders/videos/10154871595808239/

Academy details and application download: https://fastrackriders.info/academy-program-details/

About Fastrack Riders Academy & Apex Club

Established in 1989, the Fastrack Riders Academy & Apex Club is Auto Club Speedway’s official exclusive motorcycle partner. This world-class, multi-use superspeedway facility is ideally located in Fontana, California, just 30 miles from Los Angeles.

Sponsored by BMW, Fastrack unites riders of all skill levels in a unique environment while hosting Southern California’s most convenient, best organized, all-inclusive trackdays on a challenging 2.36-mile, 21-turn roadcourse.

Much more than a simple trackday organization, Fastrack Riders added the Academy and Apex Club monikers in 2016 to better reflect the diversity of its offerings. Blending a five-stage moto-education program with an array of extracurricular activities on and off the racetrack, every Fastrack day a multi-layered event for sportbikers to enjoy in an open, friendly, club-like atmosphere.

For more in-depth information about the Apex Club’s many unique programs and special events, please visit FastrackRiders.info. Trackday enthusiasts have an open invitation to become engaged members of it growing community by liking Fastrack’s Facebook page and following the action on its YouTube, Instagram and Twitter feeds.

Fastrack Riders Academy & Apex Club
FastrackRiders.info
877-560-2233
PO Box 270251
San Diego, CA, 92198
[email protected]

Auto Club Speedway
www.AutoClubSpeedway.com
909-429-5000
300 Cherry Avenue
Fontana, CA 92335

MotoAmerica: Westby Racing Team Tests At Circuit Of The Americas

David Swarts
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MotoAmerica: Westby Racing Team Tests At Circuit Of The Americas

Westby Racing Team Completes Superbike Testing At The Circuit Of The Americas

Tulsa, OK – December 3, 2019 – Over the past weekend, Mathew Scholtz and the Westby Racing team participated in a two-day track event at the Circuit of The Americas (COTA), which was hosted by Eleven Motorsports at the 3.426-mile, 20-turn road course in Austin, Texas. The team used the valuable off-season track time to test components and settings on the #11 Westby Racing Yamaha YZF-R1 Superbike.

Damp conditions greeted Mathew and the team on Saturday morning at the beginning of the two-day test, but they capitalized on the situation by testing Dunlop’s new rain tire. Mathew was able to do several laps with the rain tire on the wet track, which not only helped the team refine the bike’s wet-weather setup, but it will also be helpful if rain falls when the team returns for the MotoAmerica Championship of Texas this coming April 3-5.

The skies brightened over COTA, which enabled the team to further refine the electronics settings on the bike, with a specific focus on the traction control and torque settings. They also worked on some alternative chassis geometries and top speed.

“The COTA test went really well for us,” Mathew said. “In the first two sessions on Saturday morning, we got to try the new Dunlop wet rear tire that MotoAmerica will be using next year, so that was a big bonus for us. After the track dried out, we focused a lot on the electronics. The bike is now quite a bit different than it was when we were here last April because we did a lot of development on it over the past season, so it was good to be at COTA again and see what kind of progress we made.

“COTA is the first race weekend for us in 2020, and it hasn’t always been the best track for me in the past. But, with all the data we collected at this two-day test, I’m pretty confident that we can having a really strong start to the 2020 season.”

With three solid tests under their belts at the end of 2019, Mathew and the team are heading into 2020 with momentum and lots of valuable data on their sides. They’re looking forward to more testing after the new year, and they will keep things rolling right into the fast-approaching 2020 MotoAmerica Superbike Championship.

For more Westby Racing updates, including news, photos, and videos, visit https://www.westbyracing.com

Also, visit “Westby Racing” on your favorite social media site.

MotoE World Cup: Xavier Cardelus Joins Avintia Esponsorama Racing For 2020

David Swarts
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MotoE World Cup: Xavier Cardelus Joins Avintia Esponsorama Racing For 2020

XAVIER CARDELÚS JOINS THE AVINTIA ESPONSORAMA RACING IN MOTOE

Avintia Esponsorama Racing and Xavier Cardelús join forces for the next MotoE 2020 World Cup. It will be the first time that an Andorran rider and team are together in a Motorcycling World Championship. The young rider joins the ranks of the team as a team-mate of the Brazilian Eric Granado.

Xavier Cardelús, who is only 21 years old, has already accumulated a certain amount of experience on the circuits. Currently, he has been competing in the 2019 season of the Moto2 World Championship with Ángel Nieto Team, during 2018 he completed a total of 13 races in the intermediate category, 7 with Team Stylobike and the remaining 6 with the Marinelli Snipers Team, in 2017 he participated in the SuperSport World Championship and in 2015 he competed in the FIM CEV Moto2 European Championship.

For the 2020 World Championship, Cardelús will face a new challenge in his professional career with Avintia Esponsorama Racing making his debut in the MotoE World Cup.

With this new incorporation and the signing of Carlos Tatay in the Moto3 category, the team’s line-up is practically closed for the next 2020 season, just waiting to confirm the name of the new rider who will share the MotoGP box with Tito Rabat.

LRRS: Racers John Grush, Eric Wood Named Co-Executive Directors Of Series

David Swarts
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LRRS: Racers John Grush, Eric Wood Named Co-Executive Directors Of Series

Grush and Wood Named Co-Executive Directors of Loudon Road Race Series

Veteran racers John Grush and Eric Wood bring a new vision to New Hampshire Motor Speedway’s Loudon Road Race Series starting with the 2020 season.

LOUDON, N.H. – Long-time motorcycle racers John Grush and Eric Wood have been named co-executive directors of New Hampshire Motor Speedway’s Loudon Road Race Series (LRRS).

The 2020 LRRS schedule features eight weekends of Championship Cup Series (CCS) motorcycle racing including seven events at NHMS. Through a new partnership with CCS, LRRS will race for the first time at another venue and will include a points-paying round at New Jersey Motorsports Park (NJMP) on July 4-5 for all LRRS championships. Likewise, the CCS Atlantic and Mid-Atlantic championships will have a points-paying round at NHMS during the 97th annual Loudon Classic, the longest-running motorcycle race in America, on June 19-21. All schedule conflicts between motorcycle races at NHMS, NJMP and Summit Point have been eliminated.

“We are grateful for the hard work of all parties involved and excited for the opportunity to grow the relationship between LRRS and CCS to create a friendly rivalry between the riders who frequent these two racetracks,” said Wood. “We feel strongly that this relationship will strengthen racing in the northeast as a whole and that the creation of a little north/south challenge will bring our communities together and provide new opportunities to become better riders.”

Grush and Wood have also formed an advisory board consisting of riders, officials, dealers and vendors who are invested in the sport and share the same vision of growth. The three-part vision is to: Reward current riders with an atmosphere that combines fun, customer service, safety and fairness throughout all aspects of the weekend; create opportunities for track day riders to feel welcomed to participate in the world of racing by creating a low pressure, more relaxed environment to test the waters; and ensure the future of the sport through the development of a youth program that lowers the barriers to entry and provides guidance from experienced experts, leading to a path for success.

“I came into road racing and found a family,” said Grush. “Our primary goals with LRRS and racing in general is to nurture and grow that family. We want to not only engage the riders in the process but also the motorcycle community as a whole. Over the next few seasons, we hope to roll out a number of programs that will allow more riders to experience what makes racing so great, strengthen motorcycle businesses and solidify the sport for the foreseeable future.”

Grush and Wood hope to work together with racing organizations across the country to pool information and exchange ideas in the spirit of enhancing the racing community and evolving the sport.

“We have a deep-rooted passion for our sport and believe there are many great minds in racing organizations across the country,” said Wood. “We look forward to opening lines of communication that will usher in an era of collaboration that will help racing thrive both at LRRS and throughout the nation.”

John Grush (left) and Eric Wood (right) at the 2019 LRRS awards banquet. Photo courtesy of LRRS/NHMS.
John Grush (left) and Eric Wood (right) at the 2019 LRRS awards banquet. Photo courtesy of LRRS/NHMS.

The Loudon Road Race Series will return to New Hampshire Motor Speedway May 2-3 to kick off the 2020 season.

2020 Schedule:

–       May 2-3 and 16-17

–       June 19-21 (97th annual Loudon Classic Weekend)

–       July 4-5 (At New Jersey Motorsports Park)

–       August 1-2 and 29-30

–       September 19-20

–       October 3-4

 

Check out the full results from all races: https://trackintel.com/ti/lrrs/ajax2014/results/index.html

 

Stay up-to-date with the Loudon Road Race Series:

–       Facebook: https://www.Facebook.com/LRRSNHMS/

–       Website: https://www.NHMS.com/Local/Loudon-Road-Race-Series/

 

For ticket information for all events at New Hampshire Motor Speedway, including the November 28, 2019-January 5, 2020 Gift of Lights presented by Eastern Propane & Oil, the June 13-20, 2020 Motorcycle Week at NHMS, the July 17-19, 2020 Foxwoods Resort Casino 301 race weekend and the September 11-12, 2020 Full Throttle Fall Weekend visit the speedway website at NHMS.com or call Fan Relations at (603) 783-4931.

 

European Champion Ferran Sastre Takes Overall Victory In Flat Track Winter Olympics

David Swarts
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European Champion Ferran Sastre Takes Overall Victory In Flat Track Winter Olympics

Ferran Sastre, overall winner of the 2019 Flat Track Winter Olympics

Sastre: He Came, He Saw, He Conquered…

It couldn’t have gone much better for Ferran Sastre (Kawasaki), racing for the first time in the United States. He won the prestigious Number One Plate at the AMA-sanctioned Flat Track Winter Olympics, run over the Thanksgiving holidays at Travelers Rest Speedway, South Carolina. The 20-year-old Spaniard from Barcelona was invited by the Flat Track Winter Olympics promoters (Motoanatomy) on the basis of having won, in undefeated and dominant fashion, the inaugural European Flat Track Series (DTRA).

Racing began with the TT event on Friday. Sastre was leading when the race was red-flagged and eventually finished second to outstanding Yamaha-mounted AFT rookie Dallas Daniels of Mattoon, Il (winner of the prestigious Peoria TT). Third was Xavier Zayat (Kawasaki) of New Windsor, New York. Daniels, who came though from deep in the pack on the restart, caught and passed Sastre in the final laps. Sastre said afterwards that he was confused about the number of laps remaining at the end, but acknowledged that Daniels was quicker.

Next event of the Triple Crown program was the Short Track and, after winning his qualifying heat, Sastre went on to score a dominant win from Zayat and Jeremiah Duffy (Honda), and that set the stage for the Flat Track Winter Olympics deciding race. Daniels, who didn’t contest the Short Track, retained an outside chance, but Sastre knew that a finish in the top six would be enough. He did better than that.

It was the first time the Spaniard had ever turned a wheel on an American half mile and he got some valuable advice on riding and set-up from AFT pro Johnny Lewis. Sastre found his Kawasaki, tuned for the Spanish and European quarter-mile and eighth-mile circuits was short on power on the straights and he had to fight his way up from eighth at the end of the opening lap.

At the front, Daniels pulled out to a comfortable lead, but, always aware of the points, Sastre picked up places lap after lap to finally finish fourth and in contention for a podium position. With Lowe second and Brandon Kitchen of Clifford Michigan third on a KTM, Sastre and his team, directed by his father Pep Sastre, were the overall winners. Ferran will be awarded the Flat Track Winter Olympics Number One plate at the December AMA Awards Banquet.

 

Results TT

1. Dallas Daniels (Yamaha)

2. Ferran Sastre (Kawasaki)

3. Xavier Zayat (Kawasaki)

4. Trevor Browner (Honda)

 

Results Short Track

1. Ferran Sastre (Kawasaki)

2. Xavier Zayat (Kawasaki)

3. Jeremiah Duffy (Honda)

4. Blake Lomas (Honda)
 

Results 1/2 Mile

1. Dallas Daniels (Yamaha)

2. Ben Lowe (Kawasaki)

3. Brandon Kitchen (KTM)

4. Ferran Sastre (Kawasaki)

 

Ferran Sastre (left) with his father Josep Sastre (right) at Travelers Rest Speedway. Photo courtesy of DTRA/NoyesCamp.com.
Ferran Sastre (left) with his father Josep Sastre (right) at Travelers Rest Speedway. Photo courtesy of DTRA/NoyesCamp.com.

Ferran Sastre #215:

“Coming here to the USA was a dream for me and I want to thank MotoAnatonomy,  DTRA and all those who made this trip possible. We had to change the front brake during practice for the TT but I got the holeshot… and pulled a few meters of advantage at the beginning. I was comfortable in the lead but, unfortunately, there was a three-rider crash that brought out the red flags. In the second start, a single-file start, I already lost the gap I had built up. I led but ‘I didn’t understand how many laps were left. I thought we were running ten laps but actually we were only running five. So, I led, but reserving a little.  Dallas, involved in the crash that stopped the race, made a great comeback from the back of the grid and was able to overtake me just at the end but I am still very happy because Dallas in a very, very good rider, and be at his level and be able to put pressure on him to fight for the win was very satisfying. I am very happy to have been able to measure myself with such a good professional.

 

“The Short Track, my specialty, I was able to win without much difficulty, but the real challenge, the reason I was excited to come to the USA was the half mile. As I got in more laps, I felt better and better. Fourth place is a very good result considering that I made a bad start and had to come back from the eighth. With more laps I think I could have finished second. So, I´m very happy. We improved the bike a bit and we will leave for Spain with more experience in these long circuits. Above all, thanks to Johnny and everyone who helped… I´m Very happy to have received this Number One Plate from the AMA and I hope it will serve as a return ticket to the USA in the future. Now I need to get my feet back on the ground. And I hope to return next year.”

ASRA/CCS Updates Tentative 2020 Race Schedules

Action from an ASRA SportBike race at Daytona International Speedway. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
Action from an ASRA SportBike race at Daytona International Speedway in 2019. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.

AMA Sanctioned ASRA Championship Series Presented by Pirelli Tire

2/29-3/1           Roebling Road Raceway, Bloomingdale, GA

3/13-15            Daytona International Speedway, Daytona Beach, FL

4/25-26            New Jersey Motorsports Park (Thunderbolt), Millville, NJ

5/23-25            Summit Point Motorsports Park (Main), Summit Point, WV

6/13-14            Blackhawk Farms Raceway, S. Beloit, IL

7/18-19            Road America, Elkhart Lake, WI

9/19-20            VIRginia International Raceway, Alton, VA

10/17-18          Daytona International Speedway, Daytona Beach, FL

For additional info, call (817) 246-1127, FAX (817) 246-2977, [email protected], www.asraracing.com.

 

AMA Sanctioned ASRA Team Challenge Series Presented by Michelin Tire

2/29                 Roebling Road Raceway, Bloomingdale, GA

4/5                   Carolina Motorsports Park, Kershaw, SC

5/17                 Blackhawk Farms Raceway, S. Beloit, IL

6/19                 New Hampshire Motor Speedway, Loudon, NH

7/18                 Road America, Elkhart Lake, WI

8/16                 Summit Point Motorsports Park (Main), Summit Point, WV

9/6                   New Jersey Motorsports Park (Thunderbolt), Millville, NJ

9/19                 VIRginia International Raceway, Alton, VA

10/17               Daytona International Speedway, Daytona Beach, FL

For additional info, call (817) 246-1127, FAX (817) 246-2977, [email protected], www.asraracing.com.

 

CCS Atlantic Roadracing Championship Series

4/4-5                Carolina Motorsports Park, Kershaw, SC**

4/25-26            New Jersey Motorsports Park (Thunderbolt), Millville, NJ*

5/23-25            Summit Point Motorsports Park (Main), Summit Point, WV

6/19-21            New Hampshire Motor Speedway, Loudon, NH>

7/4-5                New Jersey Motorsports Park (Thunderbolt), Millville, NJ

8/1-2                NCBike, Garysburg, NC

8/15-16            Summit Point Motorsports Park (Main), Summit Point, WV

9/5-6                New Jersey Motorsports Park (Thunderbolt), Millville, NJ**

*=Double Points, **=Twin Sprint, >=Hosted by LRRS

For additional info, call (817) 246-1127, FAX (817) 246-2977, [email protected], www.ccsracing.us.

 

CCS Florida Roadracing Championship Series

2/8-9                Homestead-Miami Speedway, Homestead, FL*, #

2/29-3/1           Roebling Road Raceway, Bloomingdale, GA

3/13-15            Daytona International Speedway, Daytona Beach, FL*

4/4-5                Carolina Motorsports Park, Kershaw, SC**

8/22-23            Roebling Road Raceway, Bloomingdale, GA**

10/16-18          Daytona International Speedway, Daytona Beach, FL

12/5-6              Homestead-Miami Speedway, Homestead, FL*, #

*=Double Points, **=Twin Sprint, #=Saturday Practice

For additional info, call (817) 246-1127, FAX (817) 246-2977, [email protected], www.ccsracing.us.

 

CCS/LRRS Northeast Roadracing Championship Series

5/2-3                New Hampshire Motor Speedway, Loudon, NH>

5/16-17            New Hampshire Motor Speedway, Loudon, NH>

6/19-21            New Hampshire Motor Speedway, Loudon, NH>

7/4-5                New Jersey Motorsports Park (Thunderbolt), Millville, NJ

8/1-2                New Hampshire Motor Speedway, Loudon, NH>

8/29-30            New Hampshire Motor Speedway, Loudon, NH>

9/19-20            New Hampshire Motor Speedway, Loudon, NH>

10/3-4              New Hampshire Motor Speedway, Loudon, NH>

>=Hosted by LRRS

For additional info, call (817) 246-1127, FAX (817) 246-2977, [email protected], www.ccsracing.us.

 

CCS Mid-Atlantic Roadracing Championship Series

2/29-3/1           Roebling Road Raceway, Bloomingdale, GA*

3/15-17            Daytona International Speedway, Daytona Beach, FL*

4/25-26            New Jersey Motorsports Park (Thunderbolt), Millville, NJ*

5/23-25            Summit Point Motorsports Park (Main), Summit Point, WV#

6/13-14            Summit Point Motorsports Park (Main), Summit Point, WV**

6/19-21            New Hampshire Motor Speedway, Loudon, NH>

7/4-5                New Jersey Motorsports Park (Thunderbolt), Millville, NJ

8/1-2                NCBike, Garysburg, NC

8/15-16            Summit Point Motorsports Park (Main), Summit Point, WV

9/19-20            VIRginia International Raceway, Alton, VA*

*=Double Points, **=Twin Sprint, #=Saturday Practice, >=Hosted by LRRS

For additional info, call (817) 246-1127, FAX (817) 246-2977, [email protected], www.ccsracing.us.

 

CCS Mid-West Roadracing Championship Series

5/2-3                Autobahn Country Club (North), Joliet, IL*, #

5/16-17            Blackhawk Farms Raceway, South Beloit, IL#

6/13-14            Blackhawk Farms Raceway, South Beloit, IL#

6/20-21            Brainerd International Raceway, Brainerd, MN**,>

7/18-19            Road America, Elkhart Lake, WI**

8/1-2                Blackhawk Farms Raceway, South Beloit, IL**

9/19-20            Blackhawk Farms Raceway, South Beloit, IL*

*=Double Points, **=Twin Sprint, #=Saturday Practice, >=Hosted by CRA

For additional info, call (817) 246-1127, FAX (817) 246-2977, [email protected], www.ccsracing.us.

 

CCS Southeast Roadracing Championship Series

2/29-3/1           Roebling Road Raceway, Bloomingdale, GA*

3/13-15            Daytona International Speedway, Daytona Beach, FL*

4/4-5                Carolina Motorsports Park, Kershaw, SC**

6/13-14            Summit Point Motorsports Park (Main), Summit Point, WV**

8/1-2                NCBike, Garysburg, NC

8/22-23            Roebling Road Raceway, Bloomingdale, GA**

9/19-20            VIRginia International Raceway, Alton, VA*

10/17-18          Daytona International Speedway, Daytona Beach, FL

*=Double Points, **=Twin Sprint

For additional info, call (817) 246-1127, FAX (817) 246-2977, [email protected], www.ccsracing.us.

 

MotoGirlGT Roadracing Championship Series (Tentative)

2/29-3/1           Roebling Road Raceway, Bloomingdale, GA

3/13-15            Daytona International Speedway, Daytona Beach, FL

4/25-26            New Jersey Motorsports Park (Thunderbolt), Millville, NJ

5/23-25            Summit Point Motorsports Park (Main), Summit Point, WV#

6/13-14            Summit Point Motorsports Park (Main), Summit Point, WV**

6/19-21            New Hampshire Motor Speedway, Loudon, NH>

7/4-5                New Jersey Motorsports Park (Thunderbolt), Millville, NJ

7/18-19            Road America, Elkhart Lake, WI**

8/15-16            Summit Point Motorsports Park (Main), Summit Point, WV

9/5-6                New Jersey Motorsports Park (Thunderbolt), Millville, NJ

9/19-20            VIRginia International Raceway, Alton, VA

10/17-18          Daytona International Speedway, Daytona Beach, FL

**=Twin Sprint, #=Saturday practice, >=Hosted by LRRS

 

37th Annual CCS Race of Champions

10/16-18          Daytona International Speedway, Daytona Beach, FL

For additional info, call (817) 246-1127, FAX (817) 246-2977, [email protected], www.ccsracing.us.

Husqvarna Confirms Norden 901 Adventure Tourer Will Go Into Production

A Husqvarna Norden 901. Photo courtesy of Husqvarna.
A Husqvarna Norden 901. Photo courtesy of Husqvarna.

HUSQVARNA MOTORCYCLES TO LAUNCH FIRST TRAVEL MOTORCYCLE

NORDEN 901 CONCEPT CONFIRMED FOR PRODUCTION IN HUSQVARNA MOTORCYCLES’ STREET LINE-UP

Following the extremely successful unveiling of the NORDEN 901 Concept model at EICMA, Husqvarna Motorcycles are pleased to announce that this exciting, new twin-cylinder machine will go into production, a move that underlines Husqvarna Motorcycles’ growing commitment to the street segment.

Breaking cover for the first time during the International Motorcycle show in Italy, the NORDEN 901 received high levels of interest from the hundreds of thousands of attending motorcycle fans as well as the motorcycle media. Now set to become a key addition to Husqvarna Motorcycles’ street line-up, the dynamic and versatile long-distance traveller will offer the modern motorcycle rider a balance of practical accessibility and comfort.

Forming Husqvarna Motorcycles’ vision of an adventure-touring motorcycle, the NORDEN 901 is a dynamic, twin-cylinder motorcycle that features advanced rider ergonomics and high performance based on years of rally experience. Featuring distinct, modern design, it delivers both outstanding street and offroad performance. Class-leading lightness and power delivery is set in a versatile and accessible package, precisely arranged to allow discerning riders uncompromised exploration possibilities. Delivering effortless rideability and high-end modern equipment the NORDEN 901 can be used on daily commutes, extended adventures and everything in between.

 

A Husqvarna Norden 901. Photo courtesy of Husqvarna.
A Husqvarna Norden 901. Photo courtesy of Husqvarna.

TECHNICAL HIGHLIGHTS

=> Slim and light adventure touring motorcycle

• 889.5 cc parallel twin engine specifically tuned for adventure usage

=> Perfect balance between offroad performance and touring ability

• 21” front wheel, 18” rear => Comfortable ergonomics and confidence inspiring handling

=> High quality WP suspension components

 

Further information related to the NORDEN 901 will be released by Husqvarna Motorcycles as it nears market launch.

MotoStudent 2020: Missouri University Team Needs An R&D Rider/Racer For Event At MotorLand Aragon

Motorland Aragon
MotorLand Aragon. Photo courtesy Michelin.

The Missouri University of Science and Technology’s Miner Motorcycle Design Team needs a qualified rider able to assist in R&D test riding for the October 2020 MotoStudent Competition run by the Moto Engineering Foundation at MotorLand Aragon in Alcaniz, Spain.

The MotoStudent competition is a university based program in which student teams receive a 250cc KTM prototype engine and then design and build the rest of the motorcycle. The Miner Motorcycle Design Team needs an experienced rider to assist in R&D and fine-tuning of the bike through testing, trial and error. The rider will act as the team’s primary rider for all team activities, as well as the final event held at MotorLand Aragon.

Starting grid for a past MotoStudent race at MotorLand Aragon.

The competition includes a braking test, a gymkhana (maneuvering through a course outlined by cones), an acceleration test (a.k.a. drag race), and a final nine-lap road race against all the other university prototypes on the MotorLand Aragon Grand Prix racetrack!

 

 

 

Rider Qualifications include:

–Must be at least 18 years old as of October 1st, 2020.

–Must have a valid passport.

–Must be available the first two weeks of October 2020 to travel to Spain with the design team.

–Must NOT have participated in FIM-sanctioned international events in road racing, motocross, enduro, rallies, or track racing (flat track or speedway). Exceptions may be available for wild card riders.

The rider will provide all his or her personal safety gear and equipment. The Miner Motorcycle Design Team is prepared to cover all the travel costs associated with getting from St. Louis, Missouri to the MotoLand Aragon racetrack in Alcaniz, Spain.

Interested riders should email Mason George at [email protected] or [email protected]

Another way to contact the Miner Motorcycle Design Team is via their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/miner.motostudent/?hc_location=ufi

 

About The Moto Engineering Foundation

The non-profit Moto Engineering Foundation was created in 2008 to promote technological development in the motorcycle and four-wheel vehicles sector, as well as innovation, research, testing activities, and technician training at all levels. It is located in the Two Wheels Technical Center (2WTC) in TechnoPark MotorLand, along with companies related to the motor sector investing in R&D. This environment fosters synergies between universities, technology centers and companies located in the Technology Park itself. In addition, labs, test facilities, and test tracks are located nearby. Sponsors and employers include the government of Aragon (state), DORNA, Anesdor, RFME, MotorLand Aragon, Zaragoza (city) University, Zaragoza Business Confederation, Faram, and CGCOII.

Goals of the Moto Engineering Foundation

–Carry out technical research and economic tasks aimed at the promotion and management of the 2WTC and the projects of the Moto Engineering Foundation (MEF) itself.

–Energize the economy of the area by attracting and promoting new research projects from anywhere in the state and even abroad.

–Concentrate technological services related to the motorcycle industry and 4-wheel vehicles (development, tests and trials), both competition, and commercial and industrial.

–Become a benchmark at the state level as a complement to small industry in research and development.

–To facilitate the development, as future professionals, of university students as well as the practical application in the company of the knowledge acquired in the university.

MotoGP: Video Interview With Franco Morbidelli

Morbidelli: ‘I’m a better rider than at the beginning of 2019’

Franco Morbidelli reflects on first MotoGP season with PETRONAS Yamaha SRT

2019 saw former Moto2 World Champion Franco Morbidelli take a big step forward in his sophomore season in MotoGP as he and PETRONAS Yamaha Sepang Racing Team linked up. Securing four front-row starts, finishing as top Independent Rider on three occasions and matching his best-ever finish of fifth four times, he also helped the team to secure the honour of Independent Teams Champion as well as finishing inside the top ten of the overall MotoGP World Championship.

With the 2019 season at a close, we sat down with Franco to discuss his highs and lows of the year.

How different are you from the Franco Morbidelli who joined the team one year ago?

“As a person, I’m not much, much different, but as a rider, I hope that I’ve grown up a lot and I think that we did grow together as a whole crew. Most importantly, I’ve improved my knowledge of the bike that I’m riding, and I think that the end result of that is that I’m a better rider than I was at the beginning of 2019.”

Would you have been happy with the 2019 season in November 2018?

“For the speed that I had in 2019, yes, I’d have been happy with this past year. Looking back now, I think I was hoping for better results in terms of position, but the speed we were able to show was really good throughout the year. Because of that, if I had to rate the season from one to ten it would be a seven.”

What have you learned in 2019 and what do you want to learn for 2020?

“This past season, the most important thing that I learned is that to be successful in a MotoGP race, it isn’t good enough to just be the fastest guy. You need to have other things as well, and I want to be able to bring those things next year. If I told you what the things I need to do to improve are I would be giving away my secrets though!”

What role did the team play in your 2019 season?

“The team played a pivotal role because it’s them who brought Fabio and me ahead so much this season. Of course, what we all see are the achievements of the riders, but there are many people behind the riders and if the racers are doing well it’s because they’re in a condition that allows them to do well. What this team brings is a very good environment that allows the riders to perform to their best every weekend.”

Franco Morbidelli. Photo courtesy of PETRONAS Yamaha SRT.
Franco Morbidelli. Photo courtesy of PETRONAS Yamaha SRT.

How important were Yamaha this year?

“The Yamaha YZR-M1 is a very nice bike, a very good package. It’s very rider-friendly, and I couldn’t ask for more from it. The people from Yamaha are very nice to work with as well, and we have a great relationship with all the guys, which makes it even better.”

Which of the season’s results are you most proud of and what was the biggest regret?

“Assen was a nice race, especially in the final laps. I was catching up on the opponents in front of me towards the end of the race, and that’s always a nice feeling. The biggest regret of the year; well, I’m just sorry for what happened in Aragon.”

What are your expectations for 2020?

“I expect a hard season in 2020 like it always is in MotoGP. I’m expecting improvements from ourselves too though. From myself as a rider, from our team as a whole team and from my crew as a whole crew. We have one more year of experience gained from working together, so we’ll start the season with everything more in shape. I’m expecting good things!”

What are your plans for the winter break?

“I’ll be all around the world during the break! I’ll do the Sepang 8 Hours in December so I’ll be in Malaysia for a while, then I’ll go skiing and make some time for more bike riding. Then I’ll go to the Caribbean for a while as well, so I’m planning on getting all around!”
 

MotoE World Cup: Team Trentino Gresini Signs Alessandro Zaccone For 2020

Team Trentino Gresini MotoE Team Principal Fausto Gresini (left) and Alessandro Zaccone (right). Photo courtesy of Gresini Racing.
Team Owner Fausto Gresini (left) with MotoE rider Alessandro Zaccone (right) in December 2019. Photo courtesy of Gresini Racing.

ZACCONE COMPLETES TEAM TRENTINO GRESINI LINE-UP FOR 2020

Team Trentino Gresini MotoE have now finalised their plans for 2020 with the arrival of Alessandro Zaccone, who will race alongside MotoE’s reigning and defending champion Matteo Ferrari.

The 20-year-old Italian has a history in the Italian Championship of Speed (CIV) in which he became champion of the CBR600RR Cup in 2014 and a present in the CEV, where he was third this year in the Moto2 class (which was dominated by Edgar Pons). He is now joining Gresini in what is a new adventure for him in the all-electric class of MotoGP.

Zaccone’s first shakedown will be on March 10-12 at Jerez de la Frontera – the same track hosting the season debut on the first weekend of May.

ALESSANDRO ZACCONE

“This is surely going to be an interesting challenge and a completely new one for me. I’m very happy with this opportunity and also to be joining such an institution like Team Gresini – which has been a dream since I was a young buy. I will give my 200% to repay Fausto’s trust in me and I expect a great season.”

FAUSTO GRESINI

“Alessandro is a young Italian prospect and that’s exactly the type of rider we were looking for. I always said that the MotoE project must be one for the young riders so I’m happy to be giving this opportunity to a rider that we considered mature enough to step up on the world stage – after doing so well in the CEV Moto2 class this year. We would like to confirm ourselves at the top in 2020 and with thisline-up we will try to do even better than 2019.”

Team Bostrom’s Mitch Hall Wins Grand Prize At Fastrack Academy V

Fastrack Academy V coaches Chris Ulrich, Eric Bostrom, Jake Zemke and Josh Hayes (subbing for Jeremy Toye) and participants with the grand prize, a BMW G 310 R, at Auto Club Speedway. Photo by CaliPhotography.com, courtesy of Fastrack Academy.
Fastrack Riders' Fastrack Academy V coaches Chris Ulrich, Eric Bostrom, Jake Zemke and Josh Hayes and participants with the grand prize, a BMW G 310 R, at Auto Club Speedway in 2019. Photo by CaliPhotography.com, courtesy of Fastrack Academy.

2019 Fastrack Academy V Results

SAN DIEGO, CA – Fastrack Academy class of 2019 concluded in great fashion on Sunday, December 1st at Auto Club Speedway, in Fontana, California. Team Bostrom’s Mitch Hall took the first place grand prize, a BMW G310R. John Butler, Ben Ahern and Kevin Diec finished a close second, third and fourth, respectively.

Mitch’s comments: “I’ve only been riding a short time and was determined to consume riding knowledge and experience as fast as I could. Why build bad habits that have to be undone later? I met last year’s winner and then Imad shortly after. Both described exactly what I was looking for. The process-oriented instruction was ideal for not just lowering lap times but for truly understanding how my inputs to the machine contributed to each lost second. Fastrack Riders really has something special here with great coaches, staff and a culture that is genuinely fun. I will be spending a fair amount of time in 2020 on the track with Fastrack.”

This was the fifth year running Fastrack Academy. New tests are added to the program each year as a surprise. Gymkhana and a bicycle challenge were also run as a result of their great success in prior years.

“The Fastrack Academy has created friendships and riding achievements that will last a lifetime. In the five years since its inception, the overall riding level and speed has noticeably increased at Fastrack events. I couldn’t be more proud of my team’s achievements and have certainty that any one of our four students had the ability to win the grand prize,” said Eric Bostrom, a former professional road racer with multiple AMA championships and Mitch’s lead coach

Eric’s Assistant Coach Aaron Ascher adds: “Our team was great to work with, and I was honored to be Eric’s assistant for a second time! We put more emphasis on personal development for each of our riders on the team this year and I think the results are a testament of our process. I am super proud of our team and what they have accomplished!”

Mr. Imad Samhat, Fastrack Rider’s owner notes: “I wanted to thank all the participants, not just the winners and finalists but all those that committed and gave it their all in this past round and prior rounds. I’m quite proud of our program as it is has proven itself every time for four years now. In the Academy everyone achieves and everyone has a chance at winning. As the sun sets on this amazing and unique project, we are finalizing the details for introducing yet another creative and unique program in 2020 that jives with our consistent mission of: Ride faster; yet safer. So stay tuned!”

With great support from participating Southern California BMW Dealers (BMW Motorcycles of Riverside, Irv Seaver BMW Motorcyles and New Century BMW Motorcycles), Pirelli Moto Tires and Chicken Hawk Tire Warmers, Fastrack Academy has completed its fifth consecutive year with unquestionable success and continued dedication from top Pros including Eric Bostrom, Jake Zemke, Jeremy Toye, Chris Ulrich, Ben Bostrom, Chris Fillmore, Steve Rapp and Josh Hayes. Follow Fastrack Riders on social media and email any questions directly to [email protected]

ABOUT FASTRACK RIDERS ACADEMY

An exclusive rider development academy led by professional racers. The three-month program offers many prizes including a brand new motorcycle. Every participant who completes the Academy is recognized by the Pro Coaches and receives a Fastrack Riders Certification signed by all the coaches. Some highlights of what the Academy includes: on and off track training from the Pros; in-helmet live communication while on track; in-class and on-board videos; social media involvement and voting.

Academy Video: https://www.facebook.com/fastrackriders/videos/10154871595808239/

Academy details and application download: https://fastrackriders.info/academy-program-details/

About Fastrack Riders Academy & Apex Club

Established in 1989, the Fastrack Riders Academy & Apex Club is Auto Club Speedway’s official exclusive motorcycle partner. This world-class, multi-use superspeedway facility is ideally located in Fontana, California, just 30 miles from Los Angeles.

Sponsored by BMW, Fastrack unites riders of all skill levels in a unique environment while hosting Southern California’s most convenient, best organized, all-inclusive trackdays on a challenging 2.36-mile, 21-turn roadcourse.

Much more than a simple trackday organization, Fastrack Riders added the Academy and Apex Club monikers in 2016 to better reflect the diversity of its offerings. Blending a five-stage moto-education program with an array of extracurricular activities on and off the racetrack, every Fastrack day a multi-layered event for sportbikers to enjoy in an open, friendly, club-like atmosphere.

For more in-depth information about the Apex Club’s many unique programs and special events, please visit FastrackRiders.info. Trackday enthusiasts have an open invitation to become engaged members of it growing community by liking Fastrack’s Facebook page and following the action on its YouTube, Instagram and Twitter feeds.

Fastrack Riders Academy & Apex Club
FastrackRiders.info
877-560-2233
PO Box 270251
San Diego, CA, 92198
[email protected]

Auto Club Speedway
www.AutoClubSpeedway.com
909-429-5000
300 Cherry Avenue
Fontana, CA 92335

MotoAmerica: Westby Racing Team Tests At Circuit Of The Americas

Mathew Scholtz heading out on track on his Westby Racing Yamaha YZF-R1 Superbike at Circuit of The Americas. Photo by Alonzo Contreras, courtesy of Westby Racing.
Mathew Scholtz heading out on track on his Westby Racing Yamaha YZF-R1 Superbike at Circuit of The Americas. Photo by Alonzo Contreras, courtesy of Westby Racing.

Westby Racing Team Completes Superbike Testing At The Circuit Of The Americas

Tulsa, OK – December 3, 2019 – Over the past weekend, Mathew Scholtz and the Westby Racing team participated in a two-day track event at the Circuit of The Americas (COTA), which was hosted by Eleven Motorsports at the 3.426-mile, 20-turn road course in Austin, Texas. The team used the valuable off-season track time to test components and settings on the #11 Westby Racing Yamaha YZF-R1 Superbike.

Damp conditions greeted Mathew and the team on Saturday morning at the beginning of the two-day test, but they capitalized on the situation by testing Dunlop’s new rain tire. Mathew was able to do several laps with the rain tire on the wet track, which not only helped the team refine the bike’s wet-weather setup, but it will also be helpful if rain falls when the team returns for the MotoAmerica Championship of Texas this coming April 3-5.

The skies brightened over COTA, which enabled the team to further refine the electronics settings on the bike, with a specific focus on the traction control and torque settings. They also worked on some alternative chassis geometries and top speed.

“The COTA test went really well for us,” Mathew said. “In the first two sessions on Saturday morning, we got to try the new Dunlop wet rear tire that MotoAmerica will be using next year, so that was a big bonus for us. After the track dried out, we focused a lot on the electronics. The bike is now quite a bit different than it was when we were here last April because we did a lot of development on it over the past season, so it was good to be at COTA again and see what kind of progress we made.

“COTA is the first race weekend for us in 2020, and it hasn’t always been the best track for me in the past. But, with all the data we collected at this two-day test, I’m pretty confident that we can having a really strong start to the 2020 season.”

With three solid tests under their belts at the end of 2019, Mathew and the team are heading into 2020 with momentum and lots of valuable data on their sides. They’re looking forward to more testing after the new year, and they will keep things rolling right into the fast-approaching 2020 MotoAmerica Superbike Championship.

For more Westby Racing updates, including news, photos, and videos, visit https://www.westbyracing.com

Also, visit “Westby Racing” on your favorite social media site.

MotoE World Cup: Xavier Cardelus Joins Avintia Esponsorama Racing For 2020

Xavier Cardelus (right) with Avintia Racing Team Manager Ruben Xaus (left) and Esponsorama CEO Raul Romero (center). Photo courtesy of Avintia Racing.
Xavier Cardelus (right) with Avintia Racing Team Manager Ruben Xaus (left) and Esponsorama CEO Raul Romero (center). Photo courtesy of Avintia Racing.

XAVIER CARDELÚS JOINS THE AVINTIA ESPONSORAMA RACING IN MOTOE

Avintia Esponsorama Racing and Xavier Cardelús join forces for the next MotoE 2020 World Cup. It will be the first time that an Andorran rider and team are together in a Motorcycling World Championship. The young rider joins the ranks of the team as a team-mate of the Brazilian Eric Granado.

Xavier Cardelús, who is only 21 years old, has already accumulated a certain amount of experience on the circuits. Currently, he has been competing in the 2019 season of the Moto2 World Championship with Ángel Nieto Team, during 2018 he completed a total of 13 races in the intermediate category, 7 with Team Stylobike and the remaining 6 with the Marinelli Snipers Team, in 2017 he participated in the SuperSport World Championship and in 2015 he competed in the FIM CEV Moto2 European Championship.

For the 2020 World Championship, Cardelús will face a new challenge in his professional career with Avintia Esponsorama Racing making his debut in the MotoE World Cup.

With this new incorporation and the signing of Carlos Tatay in the Moto3 category, the team’s line-up is practically closed for the next 2020 season, just waiting to confirm the name of the new rider who will share the MotoGP box with Tito Rabat.

LRRS: Racers John Grush, Eric Wood Named Co-Executive Directors Of Series

Eric Wood (5) in action. Photo by Martin Hanlon.
Eric Wood (5) in action. Photo by Martin Hanlon.

Grush and Wood Named Co-Executive Directors of Loudon Road Race Series

Veteran racers John Grush and Eric Wood bring a new vision to New Hampshire Motor Speedway’s Loudon Road Race Series starting with the 2020 season.

LOUDON, N.H. – Long-time motorcycle racers John Grush and Eric Wood have been named co-executive directors of New Hampshire Motor Speedway’s Loudon Road Race Series (LRRS).

The 2020 LRRS schedule features eight weekends of Championship Cup Series (CCS) motorcycle racing including seven events at NHMS. Through a new partnership with CCS, LRRS will race for the first time at another venue and will include a points-paying round at New Jersey Motorsports Park (NJMP) on July 4-5 for all LRRS championships. Likewise, the CCS Atlantic and Mid-Atlantic championships will have a points-paying round at NHMS during the 97th annual Loudon Classic, the longest-running motorcycle race in America, on June 19-21. All schedule conflicts between motorcycle races at NHMS, NJMP and Summit Point have been eliminated.

“We are grateful for the hard work of all parties involved and excited for the opportunity to grow the relationship between LRRS and CCS to create a friendly rivalry between the riders who frequent these two racetracks,” said Wood. “We feel strongly that this relationship will strengthen racing in the northeast as a whole and that the creation of a little north/south challenge will bring our communities together and provide new opportunities to become better riders.”

Grush and Wood have also formed an advisory board consisting of riders, officials, dealers and vendors who are invested in the sport and share the same vision of growth. The three-part vision is to: Reward current riders with an atmosphere that combines fun, customer service, safety and fairness throughout all aspects of the weekend; create opportunities for track day riders to feel welcomed to participate in the world of racing by creating a low pressure, more relaxed environment to test the waters; and ensure the future of the sport through the development of a youth program that lowers the barriers to entry and provides guidance from experienced experts, leading to a path for success.

“I came into road racing and found a family,” said Grush. “Our primary goals with LRRS and racing in general is to nurture and grow that family. We want to not only engage the riders in the process but also the motorcycle community as a whole. Over the next few seasons, we hope to roll out a number of programs that will allow more riders to experience what makes racing so great, strengthen motorcycle businesses and solidify the sport for the foreseeable future.”

Grush and Wood hope to work together with racing organizations across the country to pool information and exchange ideas in the spirit of enhancing the racing community and evolving the sport.

“We have a deep-rooted passion for our sport and believe there are many great minds in racing organizations across the country,” said Wood. “We look forward to opening lines of communication that will usher in an era of collaboration that will help racing thrive both at LRRS and throughout the nation.”

John Grush (left) and Eric Wood (right) at the 2019 LRRS awards banquet. Photo courtesy of LRRS/NHMS.
John Grush (left) and Eric Wood (right) at the 2019 LRRS awards banquet. Photo courtesy of LRRS/NHMS.

The Loudon Road Race Series will return to New Hampshire Motor Speedway May 2-3 to kick off the 2020 season.

2020 Schedule:

–       May 2-3 and 16-17

–       June 19-21 (97th annual Loudon Classic Weekend)

–       July 4-5 (At New Jersey Motorsports Park)

–       August 1-2 and 29-30

–       September 19-20

–       October 3-4

 

Check out the full results from all races: https://trackintel.com/ti/lrrs/ajax2014/results/index.html

 

Stay up-to-date with the Loudon Road Race Series:

–       Facebook: https://www.Facebook.com/LRRSNHMS/

–       Website: https://www.NHMS.com/Local/Loudon-Road-Race-Series/

 

For ticket information for all events at New Hampshire Motor Speedway, including the November 28, 2019-January 5, 2020 Gift of Lights presented by Eastern Propane & Oil, the June 13-20, 2020 Motorcycle Week at NHMS, the July 17-19, 2020 Foxwoods Resort Casino 301 race weekend and the September 11-12, 2020 Full Throttle Fall Weekend visit the speedway website at NHMS.com or call Fan Relations at (603) 783-4931.

 

European Champion Ferran Sastre Takes Overall Victory In Flat Track Winter Olympics

Ferran Sastre (right) with racer and race promoter Johnny Lewis (left) at Travelers Rest Speedway. Photo courtesy of DTRA/NoyesCamp.com.
Ferran Sastre (right) with racer and race promoter Johnny Lewis (left) at Travelers Rest Speedway. Sastre trained with Noyes Camp, the dirt track school in Spain founded by American Kenny Noyes. Photo courtesy of DTRA/NoyesCamp.com.

Ferran Sastre, overall winner of the 2019 Flat Track Winter Olympics

Sastre: He Came, He Saw, He Conquered…

It couldn’t have gone much better for Ferran Sastre (Kawasaki), racing for the first time in the United States. He won the prestigious Number One Plate at the AMA-sanctioned Flat Track Winter Olympics, run over the Thanksgiving holidays at Travelers Rest Speedway, South Carolina. The 20-year-old Spaniard from Barcelona was invited by the Flat Track Winter Olympics promoters (Motoanatomy) on the basis of having won, in undefeated and dominant fashion, the inaugural European Flat Track Series (DTRA).

Racing began with the TT event on Friday. Sastre was leading when the race was red-flagged and eventually finished second to outstanding Yamaha-mounted AFT rookie Dallas Daniels of Mattoon, Il (winner of the prestigious Peoria TT). Third was Xavier Zayat (Kawasaki) of New Windsor, New York. Daniels, who came though from deep in the pack on the restart, caught and passed Sastre in the final laps. Sastre said afterwards that he was confused about the number of laps remaining at the end, but acknowledged that Daniels was quicker.

Next event of the Triple Crown program was the Short Track and, after winning his qualifying heat, Sastre went on to score a dominant win from Zayat and Jeremiah Duffy (Honda), and that set the stage for the Flat Track Winter Olympics deciding race. Daniels, who didn’t contest the Short Track, retained an outside chance, but Sastre knew that a finish in the top six would be enough. He did better than that.

It was the first time the Spaniard had ever turned a wheel on an American half mile and he got some valuable advice on riding and set-up from AFT pro Johnny Lewis. Sastre found his Kawasaki, tuned for the Spanish and European quarter-mile and eighth-mile circuits was short on power on the straights and he had to fight his way up from eighth at the end of the opening lap.

At the front, Daniels pulled out to a comfortable lead, but, always aware of the points, Sastre picked up places lap after lap to finally finish fourth and in contention for a podium position. With Lowe second and Brandon Kitchen of Clifford Michigan third on a KTM, Sastre and his team, directed by his father Pep Sastre, were the overall winners. Ferran will be awarded the Flat Track Winter Olympics Number One plate at the December AMA Awards Banquet.

 

Results TT

1. Dallas Daniels (Yamaha)

2. Ferran Sastre (Kawasaki)

3. Xavier Zayat (Kawasaki)

4. Trevor Browner (Honda)

 

Results Short Track

1. Ferran Sastre (Kawasaki)

2. Xavier Zayat (Kawasaki)

3. Jeremiah Duffy (Honda)

4. Blake Lomas (Honda)
 

Results 1/2 Mile

1. Dallas Daniels (Yamaha)

2. Ben Lowe (Kawasaki)

3. Brandon Kitchen (KTM)

4. Ferran Sastre (Kawasaki)

 

Ferran Sastre (left) with his father Josep Sastre (right) at Travelers Rest Speedway. Photo courtesy of DTRA/NoyesCamp.com.
Ferran Sastre (left) with his father Josep Sastre (right) at Travelers Rest Speedway. Photo courtesy of DTRA/NoyesCamp.com.

Ferran Sastre #215:

“Coming here to the USA was a dream for me and I want to thank MotoAnatonomy,  DTRA and all those who made this trip possible. We had to change the front brake during practice for the TT but I got the holeshot… and pulled a few meters of advantage at the beginning. I was comfortable in the lead but, unfortunately, there was a three-rider crash that brought out the red flags. In the second start, a single-file start, I already lost the gap I had built up. I led but ‘I didn’t understand how many laps were left. I thought we were running ten laps but actually we were only running five. So, I led, but reserving a little.  Dallas, involved in the crash that stopped the race, made a great comeback from the back of the grid and was able to overtake me just at the end but I am still very happy because Dallas in a very, very good rider, and be at his level and be able to put pressure on him to fight for the win was very satisfying. I am very happy to have been able to measure myself with such a good professional.

 

“The Short Track, my specialty, I was able to win without much difficulty, but the real challenge, the reason I was excited to come to the USA was the half mile. As I got in more laps, I felt better and better. Fourth place is a very good result considering that I made a bad start and had to come back from the eighth. With more laps I think I could have finished second. So, I´m very happy. We improved the bike a bit and we will leave for Spain with more experience in these long circuits. Above all, thanks to Johnny and everyone who helped… I´m Very happy to have received this Number One Plate from the AMA and I hope it will serve as a return ticket to the USA in the future. Now I need to get my feet back on the ground. And I hope to return next year.”

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