MotoGP: Video Interview With Rookie Of The Year Fabio Quartararo

David Swarts

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November 29, 2019

MotoGP: Video Interview With Rookie Of The Year Fabio Quartararo

It’s been an exceptional rookie season for PETRONAS Yamaha Sepang Racing Team rider Fabio Quartararo, not only taking Rookie of the Year honours in his first season in the MotoGP World Championship but backing it up with becoming the Independent Riders’ Champion and helping the team to take the Independent Teams’ title in their first season in the premier class. En route to an incredible season, he also managed to rack up seven podium finishes, six pole positions, 13 front-row starts and fifth in the overall World Championship.

With the 2019 season at a close, we asked Fabio to reflect on his incredible debut season.

Can you rate your season from one to ten?

“We did an amazing season this year, so maybe eight. The two missing are because of my mistakes – but I needed to make them to learn for the future. It’s important to not over-analyse the year, but it’s also true that there were some races where we could have done a better job, like in Australia or Silverstone. I made mistakes, but that’s part of the job and I learned from them. The highlight of the year was definitely pole position in Jerez; it was the first time I ever topped a session in MotoGP and it was for pole position!”

What have you learned this season and what do you need to learn in 2020?

“I learned many things about saving tyres, how to ride a MotoGP bike with both a full tank of fuel and an empty one, how to play with the maps – there are too many things to list them all. It’s an amazing experience to be able to ride these bikes, and I’ve learned so much that it’s not easy to say all of them. Next year I want to perform better in races, because we already know that I’m fast in qualifying.”

What role did the team and Yamaha have in your rookie season?

“The role of the team was to teach me at the start of the year, and every single person in the squad has helped me in some way. Everyone did a top job – their season is a nine out of ten, only because everyone can always find a way to improve themselves. No bike in MotoGP is easy to ride, but the Yamaha is perhaps the most familiar for a rookie, and that helped a lot to keep me working in a simple way instead of doing stupid things while I was riding.”

What are you most proud of in your rookie season?

“I’m so proud of the whole second half of the season when I was able to be there fighting for the podium in a lot of races. I think It’ll be the goal of 2020 to spend every single race fighting for the podium and for top-fives. Of course, the biggest regrets are the crashes in Phillip Island, Sachsenring and Silverstone – but we learned a lot from each of them.”

Your name is now a lot more well known than at the start of this year; what effect has this had on you?

“Of course I feel it because last year I was a nobody and then suddenly with a big change in performance this year people have started to recognise me in the street or at the airport. But the important thing is for me to try and remain the same person, not to do stupid things – I want to stay like I was before.”

What are your expectations for 2020?

“My expectation for next year will be to fight for the podium in every single race and to be top five when we can’t be in the top three.”

What’s your plan for the winter break?

“I’ll be at home, training hard and riding motorbikes as much as possible, because winter is the only time when I can ride bikes without a lot of risk and pressure!”

Fabio Quartararo (20) battled Marc Marquez (93) for first places in several races in 2019. Photo courtesy of PETRONAS Yamaha SRT.

Ducati Hosting Fundraiser For Carlin Dunne Foundation Dec. 5 In New York City

David Swarts

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November 29, 2019

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Ducati Hosting Fundraiser For Carlin Dunne Foundation Dec. 5 In New York City

Ducati North America to Host Charity Fundraiser in New York City to Support Carlin Dunne Foundation on December 5

Commemorative event at Canoe Studios in Manhattan on December 5 with live and online silent auction to raise funds for Carlin Dunne Foundation

Gallery of Carlin Dunne racing memorabilia will showcase life of legendary motorsports athlete

Mountain View, Calif. – Ducati North America is hosting a fundraiser on Thursday, December 5, to honor the legacy of motorcycle racer and King of the Mountain, Carlin Dunne. In partnership with Canoe Studios, Ducati has created the event to support the Carlin Dunne Foundation with a silent auction and gallery presentation of memorabilia planned for the evening.

The fundraiser is free to attend and open to the public – RSVP registration required (space limited). For more information and to RSVP, please visit: https://www.ducati.com/us/en/editorial/carlin-dunne-nyc-charity-event

The Carlin Dunne Foundation was established this summer after the passing of Dunne. The foundation was created with the help of proceeds from the auction of the #005 Panigale V4 916 25th Anniversario, and was built with one vision and two objectives: First, the foundation focuses on helping athletes diagnosed with, or at risk for, CTE, Concussion Syndrome, and Traumatic Brain Injury. Secondly, the foundation is dedicated to providing mentorship programs for up-and-coming riders while developing a network focused on providing tools necessary to succeed, including programs geared to help rookies navigate the racing business and hone skills in the extreme sports arena.

Guests at Canoe Studios on December 5 will have the opportunity to connect with the motorcycling community and celebrate Dunne’s accomplishments while supporting the Carlin Dunne Foundation. The evening will present the chance for guests to bid for unique collectable items from our partners at Bell, Alpinestars, Ducati Corse, Deus, Spider Grips, Yeti and Kyle Wyman Racing. Additionally, Dunne’s 2018 winning Multistrada Pikes Peak Edition motorcycle will be on display, as well as a special gallery featuring some of Dunne’s personal racing memorabilia, evoking his diverse skillset and championship spirit. The new 2020 Ducati models will also be on display for attending fans to see. To cap off the evening, Ducati North America CEO Jason Chinnock will present a retrospective honoring Dunne’s championship achievements and personal accomplishments, giving guests a glimpse into the life of this legendary figure in motorcycle racing.

Those who cannot attend the event in New York will also be able bid on the silent auction through the OneCause online platform, with a link forthcoming on the Ducati website.

Separately, direct contributions to the Carlin Dunne Foundation may also be given through the following link at any time: http://bit.ly/2Kse57r-Donate-Carlin-Dunne-Foundation

MotoAmerica Flashback: Superbike Racer Kyle Wyman Says Airfence Saved His Life

newspaper

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November 29, 2019

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MotoAmerica Flashback: Superbike Racer Kyle Wyman Says Airfence Saved His Life

This press release issued by Kyle Wyman Racing (KWR) was first published on September 20th, 2017.

Kyle Wyman withdraws from Barber season finale after massive crash, injury on Cambr/YCRS/KWR Yamaha Superbike

LEEDS, Ala. — Kyle Wyman withdrew from the MotoAmerica Superbike season finale at Barber Motorsports Park in Leeds, Alabama this past weekend after a massive crash on his Cambr/YCRS/KWR Yamaha YZF-R1. Wyman suffered a fracture to his T6 vertebra after a high speed impact with Airfence in the Saturday morning free practice session.

Wyman was the fifth fastest rider overall after Friday’s qualifying sessions on his Cambr/YCRS/KWR Yamaha. The New Yorker was carrying his momentum from his first career podium finish at New Jersey Motorsports Park just days earlier.

Wyman was on a routine practice lap Saturday morning when a mechanical failure caused a complete loss of front brakes. The incident occurred entering turn one of the race circuit, just after the start/finish line. Wyman was traveling at 150 mph when pulling on the brake lever.

“I had no warning that things were about to get really, really bad,” Wyman said. “The bike was feeling so good all day Friday, and Saturday was going to plan. When I went for the brakes the lever went straight to the bar and I had nothing. Somehow I was able to still turn the bike into the corner, bail off the inside of it and before I knew it I was in the Airfence.”

Wyman hit the Airfence at well over 100 mph, with speed only scrubbed with some rear brake and from tumbling over a distance of only a few hundred feet. His Dainese D-Air system deployed, creating a protective airbag around the neck and shoulder area, and Wyman was also wearing his 6D ATS-1 helmet. Even with the best protective gear in the business, Wyman is convinced that it’s the Airfence that saved his life.

“The impact was huge,” Wyman added. “I hit so hard that it knocked the wind out of me completely. I just sat there and leaned up against the fence, looking back up at the corner. I had no clue where my bike was but I didn’t care – I was just happy to be alive in that moment.”

Wyman’s Yamaha YZF-R1 barely slowed as it barreled toward another section of Airfence, likely impacting at over 130 mph. A riderless bike that certainly would have carried Wyman to a different outcome if he was still on board.

The Airfence used is inflatable, and covers steel and concrete walls around circuits on the MotoAmerica schedule, walls that would otherwise be unforgiving in the event of an impact with rider or machine. The Roadracing World Action Fund is a non-profit organization that raises money to purchase and deploy Airfence at circuits nationwide, protecting riders in the process. To donate to the Roadracing World Action Fund go to https://www.roadracingworld.com/actionfund/.

“This is the second time in my career that I’ve gotten to know these Airfence soft barriers on an intimate level,” Wyman said. “Both times I believe my life was in danger, and have come out on the better end of what could have been much worse. I think the way I came off the bike, and the Dainese air system in my suit, combined with the soft barrier and a little bit of luck all played a major role in my ability to stand here today and talk about it.”

As for missing both Superbike races on Saturday and Sunday, Wyman’s injury to his T6 vertebra would force him out of competition in what was shaping up to be a good weekend for the Cambr/YCRS team.

“I’m bummed that I couldn’t race and put our YCRS Champions Habits on display,” Wyman added. “I can’t thank those guys, and Josh Siegel enough for stepping up these last two rounds to support me. I’m still on a high from Jersey and our first podium result, so we have some good vibes to take into the off-season regardless.”

“I owe it all to YCRS, Cambr, Lucas Oil, Excelsus Solutions, Décor Brilliance, Shadrack’s Woodworking, Harv’s Harley-Davidson and Motovation USA for their amazing support this season, and so many others. But these guys really reached into their pockets as weekend sponsors and supporters who believed in my program and my vision. I’m looking forward to continuing to build my program as we head into 2018.”

While the MotoAmerica championship has concluded for 2017, stay tuned for updates and videos from the KWR team.

For more information about YCRS, visit www.champschool.com.

World Superbike: Jonathan Rea Quickest On Day One Of Testing At Jerez

David Swarts

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November 28, 2019

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World Superbike: Jonathan Rea Quickest On Day One Of Testing At Jerez

FIM Superbike World Championship

Circuito de Jerez – Angel Nieto

Jerez de la Frontera, Spain

November 28, 2019

Unofficial Day One Test Results (all on Pirelli tires):

Jonathan Rea, UK (Kawasaki), 1:39.207
Toprak Razgatlioglu, Turkey (Yamaha), 1:39.226
Michael van der Mark, Netherlands (Yamaha), 1:39.541
Alex Lowes, UK (Kawasaki), 1:39.780
Loris Baz, France (Yamaha), 1:40.128
Scott Redding, UK (Ducati), 1:40.137
Tom Sykes, UK (BMW), 1:40.431
Chaz Davies, UK (Ducati), 1:40.659
Niccolo Canepa, Italy (Yamaha), 1:40.854
Eugene Laverty, Ireland (BMW), 1:40.971
Michele Pirro, Italy (Ducati), 1:40.995
Garrett Gerloff, USA (Yamaha), 1:41.068
Xavi Fores, Spain (Kawasaki), 1:41.098
Federico Caricasulo, Italy (Yamaha), 1:41.439
Lorenzo Savadori, Italy (Kawasaki), 1:41.527

More, from a press release issued by Dorna WorldSBK Press Office:

Jerez Test – Day 1

Rea beats Razgatlioglu to top slot on day one of Jerez test

Just 0.019s split the two riders at the Jerez test, making for a close end to day one, whilst a mouth-watering prospect awaits on day two and for 2020!

Day one of the 2020 MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship test at the Circuito de Jerez – Angel Nieto has come to a close, with riders and teams testing new parts and new bikes ahead of the new season. Returning riders and WorldSBK rookies were on track looking for the perfect set-up for their 2020 season, whilst WorldSSP also joined the on-track action. Although four red flags interrupted proceedings, Jonathan Rea (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK) pipped Toprak Razgatlioglu (Pata Yamaha WorldSBK Official Team) and Alex Lowes (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK) to finish on top of the pile ahead of day two.

Improving the package in specific areas and continuing to experiment with new ideas regarding balance and set-ups for various scenarios, the Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK continued their pre-season testing with a strong afternoon in the south of Spain. Jonathan Rea was the first rider under the 1’40 mark, whilst Alex Lowes elevated himself up to second with just two hours of track time to go.

Over at Ducati, it was a tough afternoon for Scott Redding (ARUBA.IT Racing – Ducati), who ran on at Turn 5 and beached his Ducati. The British rider re-joined the track but slipped down to seventh with less than two hours to go, although he recovered in the end and finished day one in sixth. Davies was just two places behind and was working on ergonomics, whilst working on rear shock feelings together with Ohlins. Michele Pirro (BARNI Racing Team) was just outside the top ten in 11th.

Yamaha were also working on a vast array of things across their bikes, as Toprak Razgatlioglu (Pata Yamaha WorldSBK Official Team) was the first out on track. Toprak was experimenting with engine braking and was keen to refine his riding position; the Turk finished second overall, splitting KRT duo Rea and Lowes. Setting 98 laps, Michael van der Mark was also working hard on improving his feeling with new parts on the 2019 bike and finished inside the top four. Loris Baz (Ten Kate Racing – Yamaha) was as high as third but slipped down to overall, as he continued to work on a solution for his top speed deficit. Niccolo Canepa was out on track too and was the only rider with the 2020 Yamaha R1, finishing ninth.

For the first time for the 2020 season, BMW were on track, meaning Eugene Laverty made his debut with the German manufacturer. Laverty suffered a technical problem which brought out the second red flag, leaving oil on the track at Turn 2. Tom Sykes spent his day testing different chassis characteristics, whilst also experimenting with a different electronics strategy and swingarm parts too. Tom Sykes finished the day in seventh whilst Laverty was tenth overall.

At GRT Yamaha, both Federico Caricasulo and Garrett Gerloff continued their adaptation to World Superbike life. The Italian was not inside the top ten for most of the day, and, like at Aragon, was working on his riding position on the bike. Garrett Gerloff set more than 70 laps on his first time at Jerez and spent most of the day inside the top ten before finishing 12th. Xavi Fores (Kawasaki Puccetti Racing) was still getting used to be being back on a WorldSBK-spec motorcycle and was one place further back in 13th, whilst Caricasulo and Lorenzo Savadori (Team Pedercini Racing) were 14th and 15th respectively.

WorldSSP: Krummenacher on top of WorldSSP after day one of Jerez test

World Supersport action was back and despite the onslaught of rookies, the reigning Champion’s experience propelled him to the top of the timesheets

At the Circuito de Jerez – Angel Nieto, the FIM Supersport World Championship was also in action with numerous leading riders on track. A day blighted by red flags gave some teams the chance to bed-in their 2020 set-ups and for the raft of rookies to come to terms with their 2020 challenge. Ending the day on top however was reigning WorldSSP Champion Randy Krummenacher (MV AGUSTA Reparto Corse), making his debut for MV Agusta, whilst Philipp Oettl (Kawasaki Puccetti Racing) and Isaac Viñales (Kallio Racing) were in behind.

Learning a new bike and taking his crew with him to the MV Agusta set-up, Randy Krummenacher’s title defence started well, setting 50 laps throughout the day. The Swiss rider was under four seconds from Jonathan Rea’s (Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK) time from WorldSBK and just over half-a-tenth ahead of fellow WorldSSP rider, Philipp Öettl. Fresh from a test in Valencia, Oettl was up to speed on day one, with the German finishing ahead of Isaac Viñales, who is on a more-or-less identical bike to 2019 and has the aim of fighting for the title in 2020.

Fourth overall was Andrea Locatelli (BARDAHL Evan Bros. WorldSSP Team), as the Italian also made his switch from Moto2™ to World Supersport. Setting over 60 laps on the Yamaha R6, the Italian stated he needs to go step by step and set as many laps as possible to understand the bike better. He was ahead of 2019 Moto2™ rival Steven Odendaal (EAB Ten Kate Racing), who set 68 laps on his first time out on a WorldSSP bike. Hannes Soomer (Kallio Racing) adapted quickly to his first Yamaha experience and was sixth out of nine WorldSSP riders.

Federico Fuligni was back fighting fit with the MV Agusta and was seventh come the end of the day. Firstly, adapting to the bike and then trying to adapt the bike to his style, Can Öncü (Turkish Racing Team) turned a first wheel in WorldSSP. He was eighth, just ahead of Loris Cresson (Team Toth), as the Belgian rider completed the WorldSSP running order.

World Superbike And Support Class Regulations Updated For 2020

David Swarts

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November 28, 2019

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World Superbike And Support Class Regulations Updated For 2020

FIM Superbike & Supersport World Championships

Changes to the Regulations for 2020

The Superbike Commission composed of Messrs Gregorio Lavilla (WorldSBK Sporting & Organization Executive Director), Takanao Tsubouchi (MSMA Representative) and Franck Vayssié (FIM CCR Director) in the presence of Mr Paul Duparc (FIM CCR Coordinator and secretary of this meeting) met in the Dorna Headquarters, in Madrid, on 27 November 2019.

The Superbike Commission made the following changes for the 2020 FIM Superbike & Supersports World Championships Regulations:

Sporting Regulations
Sporting and Disciplinary Regulations – Effective Season 2020

Various clarifications in order to simplify the rules and to adapt them to decisions taken during the season were adopted. The most emblematic decisions were as follows:

Track limits on the last lap of the race

Any excursions of track limits on the last lap of the race that may have affected a race result must indicate that the rider in question was disadvantaged. If the FIM Stewards panel decide that there is no clear disadvantage, the rider will be penalised with a change of position or a time penalty.

Black Flag with Orange Disk

In harmonisation with the EWC and GP Regulations, riders who are required to leave the track by display of this flag must be authorised by an official to re-join the track.

Helmets

The Commission reminded everyone that the new standards established by the FIM for all circuit racing disciplines managed by the FIM. This means that the single enhanced standard for helmets, (replacing the various national standards used before) will be applied for the Supersport riders in 2020.

Materials Used in “Sliders”

Some riders use knee sliders to which had been added metal studs. The sparks generated could disturb the following riders. It will be therefore prohibited to manufacture or modify knee or other sliders to include any material that, when in contact with the track surface, may cause a visual disturbance to other riders.

Management of the hand carried generator during the start procedure:

The current regulations limit the use to a hand carried generator with a maximum output of 2 kw. Current practice is for generators to be incorporated into a service cart with toolboxes, spare wheels and other equipment. If generator/equipment cart, trolleys and airblowers must be removed from the grid as soon as the board “3 Minutes” is presented, for organisational reasons, it was clarified that these generators, must have been disconnected prior the board “3 Minutes” is shown.

Technical Regulations

The Superbike Commission approved a number of clarifications and editorials with regards to the Technical rules:

In Superbike:

* Wings and Aerodynamic Aids – For active or dynamic aerodynamic parts ONLY the standard homologated mechanism may be used. The range of movement must be the same as that used by the homologated road machine in normal use – not the mechanical maximum.

* Concession parts – updates

* Option parts – updates

* Rev limits – updates

* Tyre pressure – Riders may be stopped in the pit lane during the exit from the box at any time by the SBK Technical Director or his appointed staff to check the tyre pressure.

* Concession part – The ‘optional’ cylinder head as used by the reference team must be available from the concession parts supplier.

* Generator, alternator, etc.- Only the originally homologated or approved concession flywheel may be used.

* Frame and sub frame – Important clarifications.

* Wheels – Angled air valves are compulsory.

* Bottom streamlining section – Important construction requirements

In Supersport 600:

* Concession parts – Clarification

* Rev limit – new values (tbc)

* Minimum weight – new weight values (tbc)

* Tyres – maximum quantity, logistics (* timetable) and clarifications.

* Tyre pressure – Riders should be ready for possible tyre pressure control at any time in pitlane

* Camshafts – Clarification, price and availability

* Transmission – Important clarifications: definition, allowances and limitations

* Electrics and electronics – Important changes and clarifications

* Wheels – Angled air valves are compulsory

In Supersport 300:

* Tyre stickers – Logistics (* timetable)

* Tyre pressure – Riders should be ready for possible tyre pressure control at any time in pitlane

* Crankcase covers – made from titanium are no longer accepted/permitted.

* Rev limits – New rev limits for 2020 (tbc)!

* Control electronics – Clarification: a) only accepted those listed on the approved parts list.

* Software and firmware used must be from the list of legal software/firmware versions published at www.fim-live.com

* Additional sensors/channels permitted to be replaced are – Front speed sensor (From ABS sensor) and Barometric air pressure

* Where external modules (may be fitted) – additional clarifications

* Data loggers – additional clarifications

* Suspension – Clarifications * pre-load adjusters.

* Wheels – Angled air valves are compulsory

* Fuel tank – No heat reflective material permitted (attached) to the bottom surface of the fuel tank.

* Fairing: – Air ducts cannot be added if they are not present on the original machine.

The 2020 FIM Superbike & Supersports World Championships Regulations will be available at FIMLIVE.COM within the next weeks.

World Endurance: Ducati Backing Team ERC In 2019-2020 Championship

David Swarts

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November 28, 2019

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World Endurance: Ducati Backing Team ERC In 2019-2020 Championship

DUCATI JOINS FORCES WITH TEAM ERC FOR FIM EWC

Ducati is the latest manufacturer to enter the FIM Endurance World Championship. At the 8 Hours of Sepang, Team ERC Endurance will field a Ducati Panigale V4R with official backing from the Italian brand.

After competing for the past several seasons on a BMW, including as the German’s brand’s official team last season, Team ERC Endurance will switch to Ducati starting from the second race of the 2019-2020 FIM EWC season, the 8 Hours of Sepang, to be held in Malaysia on 14 December.

The arrival of BMW Motorrad’s new factory team at the Bol d’Or in September spurred the change.

Ducati makes strong commitment

Uwe Reinhardt, ERC Endurance’s team manager, explains why the squad chose the Italian brand. “My passion for the brand and my personal collection of Ducati bikes had little to do with the decision to start up a partnership with Ducati. What really counted was the fast, efficient and substantial commitment they immediately put in place and the support they will be providing throughout the season. It’s obviously been a big challenge getting ready to race at Sepang, but we’re under no pressure. It’ll be a trial run in race conditions. As for Le Mans [round three of the EWC season], our only goal will be to cross the finish line of the 24 Heures.”

Ducati Corse joins the race

Team ERC Endurance will continue to receive financial support from its main sponsor Prokasro, but Ducati will be heavily involved on the technical front. “The factory has developed parts in record time, and set up a special endurance-focused development section working closely with the Superbike team,” according to Team ERC Endurance.

Ducati Corse sporting director Paolo Ciabatti confirms the Italian brand’s involvement. “Team ERC Endurance has support from Ducati, and Ducati Corse electronics engineers will be at each race. The machines use World Superbike technical specifications, and have been prepared at the Ducati Corse workshop by Team ERC’s mechanics with support from our engineers.”

Sepang will see Team ERC Endurance’s Panigale V4R bikes make their first outing on the track.

The line-up riding the Ducati #6 will be revealed in the next few days.

International Island Classic: Australian Team Rider Lineup Announced

David Swarts

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November 28, 2019

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International Island Classic: Australian Team Rider Lineup Announced

International Challenge ready for take-off with powerful Aussie team

“To win, you’ve got to ride it, like you stole it”..Steve Martin

Australia has again flicked the premium selection switch for the famed International Challenge, which will be the headline act at Phillip Island’s 2020 International Island Classic from January 24-26 as the host nation takes on America and a new-look United Kingdom team in four bar-banging six-lap races.

Particularly wary of what reliable ‘intel’ suggests is an American team with even more firepower than 2019, defending International Challenge champion Australia has left nothing to chance by including a cavalcade of champions on its 2020 roster.

Dave Johnson, Jed Metcher, Steve Martin, Shawn Giles and 2019 pacesetter Aaron Morris lead the way, while also on the grid for the locals will be Alex Phillis, Beau Beaton, Cam Donald, Craig Ditchburn, Scott Webster and John Allen.

Martin, who defeated Morris on a countback in 2019 to win the Ken Wootton Memorial Trophy for the highest individual scorer, says that to win the International Challenge trophy you’ve got “to ride it like you stole it!”.

“Winning the 2019 International Challenge is something I’m so proud of, and to continue racing against some of the biggest names in history at the event sparks my passion,” said Martin.

“The best part is it’s a different rider and bike combo that seems to come to the fore each year, so everyone’s a threat.

“I’m really starting to get the goose bumps as we close in on 2020 because every year it gets just that bit tougher.

“And I just love the event where people can get up nice and close to the bikes and are free to wander through the pits.”

As well as the speed and consistency of Martin, his teammates also share plenty of International Challenge highlights.

Johnson was the dominant force in 2018 and arrives at Phillip Island off the back of victory in the Superbike Classic TT in August at the Isle of Man, and podiums in the Macau GP last week with Josh Brookes and a Superstock TT podium at the Isle of Man TT in June.

Metcher is also well-qualified at Phillip Island, winning the International Challenge crown in 2016 (with the UK’s Jeremy McWilliams); and Giles took the Ken Wootton award in 2013 and 2014 (again sharing the title with McWilliams).

Phillis, Beaton, Donald, Ditchburn, Webster and Allen are also long-time Aussie Island Classic campaigners and have contributed greatly to the local team’s success in the 15 years of the championship.

Australia has claimed the title 12 times and the UK has landed the crown thrice.

Line-ups from America and the United Kingdom will be unveiled in the coming week.

Packed three-day schedule
Backing the International Challenge, is the Island Classic program of 52 additional races for machines across the six historic racing categories: Veteran (up to 1919), Vintage (1920-1945), Classic (1946-1962), Post Classic (1963-1972), Forgotten Era (1973-1982) and New Era (1983-1990).

In total, 400 solo bikes will take to the 4.445km Phillip Island circuit over the three days, where each class will be decided after one qualifying session and four races; and the Phil Irving Trophy will be the rider who scores the highest points in non-International Challenge events.

Qualifying begins Friday for all classes, followed by a full program of racing on Saturday and Sunday.

To book tickets and on-circuit camping for an affordable Australian Day long-weekend away at the International Island Classic go to www.islandclassic.com.au

Featured In Print: Indian FTR 1200 S Is Time Traveling In Both Directions

Trudy Ulrich

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November 28, 2019

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Featured In Print: Indian FTR 1200 S Is Time Traveling In Both Directions

Featured In the November 2019 issue of Roadracing World:

The Indian FTR 1200 S is big, smooth, and raw. Riding it is like traveling on a time machine heading into the past and the future at the same time. It is somehow both retro and futuristic, combining styling cues from the past with state-of-the-art new technology.

Booming down the highway on the FTR 1200 S is a riding experience that evokes what contemporary motorcyclists might imagine was how it felt to ride an Indian decades ago, viewed through the lens of electronic rider aids, cruise control, and a touch-screen display.

This motorcycle is big in every dimension, physical and metaphysical. It defies categorization, and big labels fail to capture the essence of the brute. Broadly speaking, a flat track racer gene structure runs through its core, although it is designed to look like one, not be one. The FTR is a species of its own, and it takes a moment to develop an appreciation for what Indian has created . . .

—Quick Look: 2019 Indian FTR 1200 S, By Michael Gougis

Power, torque and the feel of steel between you and the road – that’s the backbone of the Indian FTR 1200 S experience. Editor at Large Michael Gougis ripped the booming V-twin around and shares his insights of a modern interpretation of a era long gone. It’s all in the November issue of Roadracing World!

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

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AMA Asks Motorists To Look Out For Motorcyclists This Holiday Weekend

David Swarts

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November 28, 2019

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AMA Asks Motorists To Look Out For Motorcyclists This Holiday Weekend

American Motorcyclist Association encourages motorists, motorcyclists to exercise caution on nation’s roadways during Thanksgiving holiday

Safe, defensive vehicle operation encouraged

PICKERINGTON, Ohio — The American Motorcyclist Association asks motorists to be on the lookout for motorcyclists during the Thanksgiving holiday and encourages riders and drivers to operate their vehicles defensively and not allow themselves to be distracted behind the wheel or behind the handlebars.

“While some part of the United States may be impassable for road-going motorcyclists in late November, it’s still warm enough to ride comfortably in many parts of the nation,” AMA President and CEO Rob Dingman said. “There also will be off-road and dual sport riders using the holiday weekend to get out and ride, with many of them crossing or using portions of public roadways. The AMA encourages all riders and drivers to operate their vehicles safely, sober and distraction-free.”

As communities and families celebrate Thanksgiving, Nov. 28, with parades and get-togethers, and shoppers rush from store to store on Black Friday, Nov. 29, all road users should plan extra time to reach their destinations.

Impaired and distracted driving are more prevalent during holiday travel times, and motorcyclists are always more vulnerable than other road users.

“Don’t let the holiday spirit affect your performance behind the wheel or on your motorcycle,” Dingman said. “Don’t drink and drive or drink and ride. Keep your focus on the road and the vehicles nearby. Let’s work together to ensure a safer holiday weekend for everyone on our nation’s roads.”

About the American Motorcyclist Association

Founded in 1924, the AMA is a not-for-profit member-based association whose mission is to promote the motorcycle lifestyle and protect the future of motorcycling. As the world’s largest motorcycling rights and event sanctioning organization, the AMA advocates for riders’ interests at all levels of government and sanctions thousands of competition and recreational events every year. The AMA also provides money-saving discounts on products and services for its members. Through the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio, the AMA honors the heroes and heritage of motorcycling. For more information, visit www.americanmotorcyclist.com.

Not a member? Join the AMA today: www.americanmotorcyclist.com/mobile-join

“Italian Motorbike Of The Eagle” Event Will Honor A Co-Founder Of Moto Guzzi On Its 100th Anniversary

John Ulrich

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November 27, 2019

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“Italian Motorbike Of The Eagle” Event Will Honor A Co-Founder Of Moto Guzzi On Its 100th Anniversary

“Giorgio Parodi: a successful Genoese”

From the 14th to the 16th May 2021, three days of intense, varied and interesting initiatives will recall Giorgio Parodi, the co-founder of the historic “Italian Motorbike of the Eagle” in the year of the centenary of his foundation, which took place on 15 March 1921 in Genoa, where the registered office has been for many years, until 1956.

The founder’s niece, Elena Bagnasco, godmother of the event, in association with the Aeroclub of Genoa, which Parodi himself was a founder of, with others, will organize the important event on the occasion of a significant date for one of the most famous and symbolic brands in Italy.

Giorgio Parodi and Genoa is a combination that somehow is going to be repeated with this initiative that joints his descendant, the flying club, and the Municipality of Genoa which actively collaborates for the event.

A moment of celebration of a figure of exemplary and industrious Ligurian (and Italian, of course) spirit, aviator and successful entrepreneur, who the Aero Club of Genoa and Institutions want to remember and to exalt.

It should be remembered that the eagle is still the symbol of the aviator, of the pilot and that the flight school is named after him at Genoa Airport.

The event is organized in collaboration with the Municipality of Genoa and it will be added to the traditional appointment of Mandello del Lario in September, where the historic factory is still located: A “pilgrimage” destination for thousands of eagle-two-wheels enthusiasts.

Among the many initiatives still being planned from May 14th to 16th in 2021 in the area of the Porto Antico in Genoa, the 3-day event foresees a meeting organized by the Moto Guzzi World Club called Mondo Moto Guzzi with “Guzzisti” coming not only from Italy, but from all countries involved in friendship with the “Italian eagle.”

A special edition of the “100 Years Raid”, with the arrival in Genoa of biker columns from all over the world all in the sign of the Eagle, and a special edition of “pesto” mortar worldwide competition, organized by the “Palatifini Cultural Association” will be a significant moments of the event.

Many events are being defined and they will make the event particularly lively and intense. The meetings with the Municipality of Mandello del Lario, the Committee of the International Meeting and other institutions continue, they will be added to the already numerous participants.

And the solidarity aspect will not be forgotten: there will be a fundraising for the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Pavilion of Giannina Gaslini Institute of Genoa indeed. In agreement with the pediatric institute top management it was decided to help all children and adolescents who suffer trauma due to motorcycle or moped accidents, but also others affected by physical problems in different ways.

It is possible to join the initiative and support the project through our website, which has just been launched:

www.giorgioparodi.it.

The site will be kept up to date, it will contain useful informations even for those coming from further afield.

Our initiative has the aim and desire to propose the figure of Giorgio Parodi as an example to look at, man based on solid ethical principles, spirit of service and self-denial, passion and expression of the proverbial “doing culture,” linked to the history of Genoese entrepreneurship. We intend to offer it to our Genoese citizens, to the institutional, academic and business world, but above all to our young people, who are preparing to take on increasingly important roles in our society.

About The Giorgio Parodi Association
The Giorgio Parodi Association was founded in Genoa by an agreement between Elena Bagnasco, Giorgio’s grandaughter, and the Aero Club of Genoa with the aim of promoting, planning, organizing and carrying out the celebration and commemoration of Giorgio Parodi, in view of the Centenary of the foundation of the famous motorcycle manufacturer. Elena Bagnasco, from Genoa, graduated in Political Sciences, with two children, was born from Alberto Bagnasco and Marina Parodi, Giorgio’s only daughter still alive.

The Aeroclub of Genoa was founded in 1928 and it is one of the most historic in Italy. Excellence of a seafaring city, with an European dimension, it trains private and professional pilots. Many are its students at the command of large aircraft of international companies. One of the most illustrious members was Carina Negrone, a pilot with many records. Its president is Fabrizio Lanata, a pilot and a great lover of the flight.

MotoGP: Video Interview With Rookie Of The Year Fabio Quartararo

November 29, 2019

It’s been an exceptional rookie season for PETRONAS Yamaha Sepang Racing Team rider Fabio Quartararo, not only taking Rookie of the Year honours in his first season in the MotoGP World Championship but backing it up with becoming the Independent Riders’ Champion and helping the team to take the Independent Teams’ title in their first season in the premier class. En route to an incredible season, he also managed to rack up seven podium finishes, six pole positions, 13 front-row starts and fifth in the overall World Championship.

With the 2019 season at a close, we asked Fabio to reflect on his incredible debut season.

Can you rate your season from one to ten?

“We did an amazing season this year, so maybe eight. The two missing are because of my mistakes – but I needed to make them to learn for the future. It’s important to not over-analyse the year, but it’s also true that there were some races where we could have done a better job, like in Australia or Silverstone. I made mistakes, but that’s part of the job and I learned from them. The highlight of the year was definitely pole position in Jerez; it was the first time I ever topped a session in MotoGP and it was for pole position!”

What have you learned this season and what do you need to learn in 2020?

“I learned many things about saving tyres, how to ride a MotoGP bike with both a full tank of fuel and an empty one, how to play with the maps – there are too many things to list them all. It’s an amazing experience to be able to ride these bikes, and I’ve learned so much that it’s not easy to say all of them. Next year I want to perform better in races, because we already know that I’m fast in qualifying.”

What role did the team and Yamaha have in your rookie season?

“The role of the team was to teach me at the start of the year, and every single person in the squad has helped me in some way. Everyone did a top job – their season is a nine out of ten, only because everyone can always find a way to improve themselves. No bike in MotoGP is easy to ride, but the Yamaha is perhaps the most familiar for a rookie, and that helped a lot to keep me working in a simple way instead of doing stupid things while I was riding.”

What are you most proud of in your rookie season?

“I’m so proud of the whole second half of the season when I was able to be there fighting for the podium in a lot of races. I think It’ll be the goal of 2020 to spend every single race fighting for the podium and for top-fives. Of course, the biggest regrets are the crashes in Phillip Island, Sachsenring and Silverstone – but we learned a lot from each of them.”

Your name is now a lot more well known than at the start of this year; what effect has this had on you?

“Of course I feel it because last year I was a nobody and then suddenly with a big change in performance this year people have started to recognise me in the street or at the airport. But the important thing is for me to try and remain the same person, not to do stupid things – I want to stay like I was before.”

What are your expectations for 2020?

“My expectation for next year will be to fight for the podium in every single race and to be top five when we can’t be in the top three.”

What’s your plan for the winter break?

“I’ll be at home, training hard and riding motorbikes as much as possible, because winter is the only time when I can ride bikes without a lot of risk and pressure!”

Ducati Hosting Fundraiser For Carlin Dunne Foundation Dec. 5 In New York City

November 29, 2019

Carlin Dunne (R.I.P.). Photo courtesy of Ducati North America.