The Future: A Kid Cries, Crashes, And Carries On Riding

John Ulrich

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November 24, 2019

The Future: A Kid Cries, Crashes, And Carries On Riding

By John Ulrich

I was wandering around the Progressive International Motorcycle Show in Long Beach, California when I stopped at the STACYC test course set up in The Kid Zone. STACYC, which was purchased by Harley-Davidson earlier this year, makes small electric bikes for kids, designed to bridge the gap between balance bikes (bicycles without pedals, like a Strider) and small motorcycles.

One small kid on the STACYC test course caught my eye. I’m not sure, but he looked to be about two or three years old to me. He was making laps on the oval course, and didn’t want to stop, evading capture several times before a large older man–I’ll assume it was his grandpa–finally managed to grab the bars and try to lift him off the machine as he held onto the bars with all he had and burst into tears. A ride attendant started removing the kid’s helmet, and the kid took his hands off the bars to grab the helmet and try to pull it back on, and when he did so, he was lifted off the bike. He was sobbing because he wanted to keep riding.

He mom led him, still crying, off the course and tried without success to calm him down and load him into a large stroller. I turned to watch other kids of various ages climbing onto the STACYC bikes in the test fleet, including ones with 12.5-inch wheels recommended for kids ages 3-5 and ones with 16-inch wheels for kids between 5-7 years old. (One kept her feet down and paddling as if she was on a Strider for awhile, but soon was riding feet up and rolling at a quicker pace.)

Soon the little kid was back in line with a determined look on his face, selecting the same helmet he rode with before, climbing on the same bike, and making laps. A few laps into his second ride around the polished concrete oval, he over-steered, tucked the front and crashed exiting a corner, flopping onto his belly. He looked surprised, but he didn’t cry. Instead, he got back up, and after the bike was righted, climbed back on and continued making laps–a lot of laps. He was figuring it out as he went, working his way past slower riders, lowering his lap times and keeping a wary eye out for any adults who might try to stop him. For a long time, nobody even tried to bring him in.

The first of two videos below shows the kid crashing, unhurt. The second video shows him after he got going again, getting more steady and quicker with each lap.

He finally pulled over when his grandpa walked halfway out onto the course and signaled him to pull over–but not before taking another lap. The kid then came to a stop, climbed off the bike, relinquished his helmet, and wandered off with his mom and grandpa.

I had just watched the birth of a future motorcycle rider.

The day before, I had been talking to Robert Pandya about his crusade to get more people riding motorcycles, starting with introducing little kids to Strider balance bikes and taking it from there. (He was turning adults into riders as part of the Discover The Ride program running at IMS–using Zero electric bikes with the power turned down and the top speed limited to about 11 mph–on a larger oval “New Rider Course.”) “It’s not that f—ing hard” to introduce people to two-wheeled fun and convert them into motorcyclists, he had told me.

I am sure the determined little kid I watched will be riding on a powered two-wheeler again sometime, someplace. He might continue with electric machines, or transition to internal combustion, or ride both.

But one way or another, that kid is now a rider, and he’ll be back.

Pandya is on to something.

More information on the Discover The Ride programs for both adults and kids at IMS shows is available from MotorcycleShows.com

(Above) Four Time 500cc Grand Prix World Champion Eddie Lawson makes a lap aboard a Zero electric motorcycle on the Discover The Ride program’s New Rider Course at the IMS show in Long Beach. Unlike the STACYC course, this much larger course has carpet laid down over the polished concrete floor. Photo courtesy Robert Pandya.

Eddie Lawson poses with Robert Pandya after making a lap of the New Rider Course. Photo courtesy Robert Pandya.

Four-time AMA Superbike Champion Josh Hayes poses with Robert Pandya. Photo courtesy Robert Pandya.

Riders line up at the start of a session on the New Rider Course as part of the IMS Discover The Ride program. Photo courtesy Robert Pandya.

Moto2: Augusto Fernandez Replaces Alex Marquez At Team Estrella Galicia 0,0 Marc VDS

David Swarts

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November 24, 2019

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Moto2: Augusto Fernandez Replaces Alex Marquez At Team Estrella Galicia 0,0 Marc VDS

Augusto Fernández joins Team Estrella Galicia 0,0 Marc VDS for 2020

After enjoying a fantastic season in which he scored five podiums and three victories, the 22-year-old Madrid rider Augusto Fernández joins the ranks of the Belgian-Hispanic structure for the 2020 Moto2 World Championship campaign.

Fernández made his Moto2 debut at the 2017 Italian Grand Prix for Speed Up and he competed in the last thirteen races of that season. Previously he raced in the FIM CEV Repsol Moto2 and in 2014 he was crowned European Junior Cup Champion.

In 2018, Fernández raced a Kalex chassis for the Pons HP40 squad in the Grand Prix of Catalonia and he stayed with the same team for the remainder of that year before signing a permanent deal for 2019.

This year, Fernández has established himself as one of the youngest and brightest prospects in Moto2. In what was his first full season in the World Championship, Fernández finished fifth in the overall standings, despite injury ruling him out of the Argentina and Austin rounds.

He collected 207 points and took five podiums, which included three victories in Assen, Silverstone and Misano. He also took one pole position at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya.

Fernández is a young rider blessed with enormous talent and determination and he has been tipped for a great future in the World Championship. During the 2019 season he has consistently demonstrated his great potential by being a regular front-runner in the new Triumph-powered Moto2 era.

With the arrival of Fernández, Team Estrella Galicia 0,0 Marc VDS completes its 2020 line-up, having already captured Sam Lowes earlier this year. It is without doubt a high-level line-up with which the Belgian-Hispanic structure aims to continue its unrivalled success in the Moto2 World Championship.

AUGUSTO FERNANDEZ, rider

“I’m really happy for the opportunity that Team Estrella Galicia 0,0 Marc VDS has given me to become part of their big family. It is a dream come true to continue growing in a great team like this. My objective is to give the maximum and to work very hard to fight for victories and have the opportunity to fight for the World Championship. I want to thank Marc van der Straten, the team and the sponsors who have shown great faith in me. I promise to do everything in my power not to disappoint them and to repay their confidence with good results”.

MARC VAN DER STRATEN, Team’s owner:

“I’m very happy to announce the addition of Augusto Fernández to our team. This year he has proven to be one of the best riders on track. He has been able to fight and win against more experienced riders. We are convinced of his talent and possibilities to continue fighting for the front positions. With his arrival, we complete a fantastic Moto2 team for 2020 with which we will continue dreaming and, above all, enjoying ourselves”.

JOAN OLIVÉ, Team Manager:

“The choice of Augusto Fernández to represent the colours of Team Estrella Galicia 0,0 Marc VDS in 2020 is not random. His great performances throughout the season made us notice him and his name was among the possible additions in the future. As a vacancy arises in the team, it is our pride and pleasure to be able to incorporate a pilot of Augusto’s stature into the team and with whom we hope to continue fighting for the top positions.”

American Flat Track: Harley-Davidson Increases Contingency Support For AFT Production Twins Class

David Swarts

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November 24, 2019

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American Flat Track: Harley-Davidson Increases Contingency Support For AFT Production Twins Class

Harley-Davidson Launches Major Support for AFT Production Twins in 2020

AFT-spec XG750Rs available through dealers bolstered by $250,000 in contingency support

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – Harley-Davidson announced today a major increase in their support of American Flat Track’s AFT Production Twins class. For the first time ever, authorized Harley-Davidson dealerships will now have the race-proven XG750R available for purchase, ensuring that more competitors will field these race-winning machines during the 2020 American Flat Track season. To support the racing efforts of Harley-Davidson-mounted riders in the class, the Milwaukee-based marque has also posted a $250,000 contingency package.

“As we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Harley-Davidson XR750 next season, this expanded pledge of support shows our lasting commitment to the sport of flat track,” said Jon Bekefy, GM of Brand Marketing for Harley-Davidson. “Harley-Davidson dealerships fielding the XG750R will provide an opportunity for our community to rally behind this great American sport.”

Harley-Davidson has been synonymous with flat track racing since the inception of the sport. Throughout the golden era of pro flat track, powerhouse Harley-Davidson dealerships from around the country scored hundreds of wins aboard the legendary XR750. Moments of brilliance during the 2019 AFT Production Twins season hearkened back to that golden era, as Dalton Gauthier and James Rispoli made consistent podium appearances and scored two wins aboard a privateer XG750R backed by Black Hills Harley-Davidson.

With $7,500 awarded to XG750R riders for each AFT Production Twins race win plus a $25,000 championship bonus on the line, the contingency package offered by Harley-Davidson is sure to heat up the on-track action next season. A total of $15,000 will be up for grabs to XG750R riders at each AFT Production Twins round in 2020, broken down as follows:

$7,500
$3,000
$1,000
$800
$700
$600
$500
$400
$300
$200

The XG750R is available for purchase for $35,999 and deliveries will begin immediately. Supply is limited and priority will be given to dealerships. For details and ordering information, please contact Vance & Hines at [email protected].

As America’s Original Extreme Sport continues its meteoric rise, the availability of the XG750R and Harley-Davidson’s banner contingency offering will set the stage for a renaissance movement of dealer-backed privateers contesting for AFT championships in 2020.

“We are delighted with this latest initiative from Harley-Davidson,” said Michael Lock, CEO of American Flat Track. “This represents the latest in a long line of Harley-Davidson’s investment in our sport and it opens up a great opportunity for dealer teams and aspiring riders to challenge in our rapidly growing sport.”

American Flat Track will kick off its highly-anticipated 2020 season with the first-ever Saturday of Speed featuring the DAYTONA 200 and DAYTONA TT Doubleheader at Daytona International Speedway. It all kicks off at the peak of Daytona Bike Week on Saturday, March 14, 2020. Tickets start at just $35 online and are available for purchase now at www.americanflattrack.com.

For more information on American Flat Track and the upcoming 2020 season visit www.americanflattrack.com.

Get the latest American Flat Track clothing and merchandise at www.americanflattracker.com.

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

British Superbike: Keith Farmer, Kyle Ryde Racing For Buildbase Suzuki In 2020

David Swarts

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November 24, 2019

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British Superbike: Keith Farmer, Kyle Ryde Racing For Buildbase Suzuki In 2020

Keith Farmer and Kyle Ryde form Buildbase Suzuki BSB lineup for 2020

Buildbase Suzuki has announced today, at Motorcycle Live, that Kyle Ryde and Keith Farmer will race its GSX-R1000 superbikes in the 2020 Bennetts British Superbike Championship.

The duo bring a wealth of championship-winning pedigree to the team, boasting seven British titles between them. Ryde enjoyed a successful 2019, adding the British GP2 Championship to his National Superstock 600 title from 2014 and 125 Championship from 2011, while Farmer joins the team as a two-time National Superstock 1000 champion and former British Supersport and National Superstock 600 champion.

Ryde got a taste of Suzuki’s GSX-R1000 at the penultimate round of the Superstock 1000 championship at Donington Park, impressing with his lap times on his way to setting the fourth fastest time in qualifying, before a crash unfortunately ruled him out of the races.

Farmer was enjoying a good start to 2019, taking a number of top-10 finishes including a best of sixth at Brands Hatch, before an injury sustained at Knockhill put him out for the rest of the season. The experienced Northern Irishman is looking to make amends in 2020 and put himself among the Showdown contenders.

Kyle Ryde, “I’m really grateful to Steve [Hicken – team manager] for the opportunity. I enjoyed riding the superstock GSX-R at Donington, and to be honest I was looking for a Superstock 1000 ride for next season but Steve has given me this chance and I’m really thankful and looking forward to it. The stocker had a great chassis and gave me a good feeling from the front, which is one thing that’s really important to me as a rider. I know the superbike will be a different animal again but I’m in a team that has a lot of experience with the Suzuki, and a team that will help me learn and develop. If we can start off in the points, hopefully we can build from there and progress towards and into the top-10.”

Keith Farmer, “Last year started well but obviously I had the crash at Knockhill and the injury was pretty significant. Honestly, I didn’t expect to be in as good a shape as I am now, but since then I have done everything I can to keep fit and get back to full fitness as soon as possible. That’s been working in the gym, cycling, physio, and even changing my diet. I’ve been back on a supermoto bike to try and keep bike fit, and the movement I have in the legs and ankles is pretty good. I’m excited for next season, it’s a winning bike and I think I’ll have a team around me that want to give me as much bike time as possible so we can have the best season we can. The goal is top-10s from the start, and push towards the top-six and hopefully mix it with the Showdown contenders.”

Team manager Steve Hicken, “In Kyle and Keith we’ve got a good mix of youth and experience, but what they share is real talent and drive, something backed up by their number of championships. The goal is to get them as comfortable as possible, which will start with a three-day test in Spain at the start of December. We know Kyle will have a lot to learn but he’s shown he’s more than capable of adapting and we’re looking forward to helping him progress next season, while Keith has already shown he’s got what it takes to compete in BSB and we think we can battle for a Showdown position in 2020.”

International Motorcycle Show: Scenes From Media Day In Long Beach, California

David Swarts

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November 23, 2019

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International Motorcycle Show: Scenes From Media Day In Long Beach, California

British Superbike: TAS Racing BMW Fielding Taylor Mackenzie And Bradley Ray In 2020

David Swarts

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November 23, 2019

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British Superbike: TAS Racing BMW Fielding Taylor Mackenzie And Bradley Ray In 2020

2020 BENNETTS BRITISH SUPERBIKE CHAMPIONSHIP RIDER LINEUP ANNOUNCED

TAS Racing is delighted to present an exciting and dynamic new line-up for our British Superbike Championship campaign in 2020, with Bradley Ray and Taylor Mackenzie joining the official BMW Motorrad supported team, riding S1000RR machinery.

22-year-old Bradley Ray took his first-ever British Superbike Championship wins back in 2018, finishing sixth in only his second season in the world’s toughest domestic Superbike series. He’s an exciting young prospect who is relishing this new challenge, whilst still in the early stages of his BSB career.

Taylor Mackenzie [26] is a familiar face on BMW Motorrad machinery having won the 2016 National 1000cc Superstock series and finishing runner-up in 2019, again onboard a BMW S100RR. He also enjoyed an opportunity with TAS Racing in the Superbike class during the final rounds this season at Donington Park and Brands Hatch – helping him cement a full time position in the BMW Motorrad supported team for 2020.

Taylor Mackenzie – #99 British Superbike Rider:

“When I got the phone call from team manager Philip Neill to ride for TAS Racing in the Superbike class at the end of this season, I jumped at the chance. The all-new S1000RR in BSB trim was very enjoyable to ride and gave me an insight to the massive potential of the package going forward. I’ve worked with the TAS boys before and fully enjoyed it, but to get the opportunity to ride with them for a full season in 2020, with the support of BMW Motorrad, in the official Superbike team, is something I can’t wait to get my teeth into.”

Bradley Ray – #28 British Superbike Rider:

“I’m very excited to be joining TAS Racing next season on the new BMW. Big thanks to the team for giving me this opportunity, I can’t wait to get started. The new S1000RR has shown very good potential in its first year of development, so I’m excited to start 2020 with some upgrades to the package. I already know what it feels like to be on the top step in BSB and the goal is to add to those career wins in 2020 with TAS Racing and BMW. The main goal is to be fighting at the sharp end all season and I’m confident TAS Racing can help me achieve that.”

Philip Neill – Team Manager:

“We are obviously delighted to welcome both Bradley and Taylor into the TAS Racing team for 2020. Taylor is back for a second stint with our team, which in itself is testament to the belief we have in him as a rider. He has already proven his pedigree on S1000RR machinery in the Superstock class, then performed admirably on our Superbike at Brands Hatch at the final round, despite little or no track time. So all in all, it was not a difficult decision to offer him a ride for a full season in 2020.In Bradley I believe the championship has a bright young talent with a very big future. He has already demonstrated that he has the raw speed, talent and race-craft to win British Superbike races. We are now getting him at a time, when I believe he can add consistency to that raw talent. With TAS Racing on our BMW Motorrad S1000RR package, he will have the tools to excel in every department. We’re looking forward to working with him and assisting him in the next chapter of his racing career.”

CRA Releases Its 2020 Race Schedule

David Swarts

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November 23, 2019

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2020 Central Roadracing Association Series

4/5 New racer classroom to be held at Moto Primo, Lakeville, MN

5/8-10 Brainerd International Raceway (Donnybrooke Course), Brainerd, MN

6/19-21 Brainerd International Raceway (Competition Course), Brainerd, MN

7/17-19 Brainerd International Raceway (Competition Course), Brainerd, MN

9/4-6 Brainerd International Raceway (Competition Course), Brainerd, MN

10/2-4 Brainerd International Raceway (Donnybrooke Course), Brainerd, MN

For additional info, visit www.cra-mn.com or email [email protected].

N2 Track Days Announces Its 2020 Schedule

David Swarts

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November 23, 2019

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N2 Track Days Announces Its 2020 Schedule

N2 Track Days Announces 2020 Schedule and Special “Black Friday” Pricing.

Media, PA – November 2019 – N2 Track Days, the premier track day provider on the East Coast, is proud to announce their tentative 2020 Schedule. N2 Track Days will provide (48) forty-eight events in 2020, at 12 world class race tracks, with (38) thirty-eight events held on weekends. To celebrate the 2020 schedule announcement, N2 Track Days is offering special membership and track day packages now through December 15^th, 2019.

“N2 Track Days is more than a track day organization. We are a large, active, thriving community of enthusiast, that together, have built a fun, exciting, environment for racers and riders of all levels” said N2 CEO Rob Cichielo. “N2 has a lot going on in 2020 including N2 Track Days events, our N2 Advanced Training Program, joint events with Yamaha Champions Riding School, Yamaha Demo events, the N2 Endurance Series with WERA, and of course, the Daytona 200 where we hope repeat our win from 2019. It’s all extremely exciting and we can’t wait to have our members along for the ride!”

N2 Track Days is a member driven organization and members enjoy significant benefits. All our events are organized into multiple groups based on rider skill level and experience to create the safest environment possible. Members enjoy special event pricing, expert instruction, and flexible cancellation policies + rain insurance with our Elite membership. Many of our control riders are Yamaha Champions Riding School graduates, instructors, and YCRS Certified Coaches.

“The 2020 schedule is out and we are super excited to be able to offer the best pricing of the year to celebrate the occasion” said N2 COO Jim Curtis. Could an Elite N2 Membership and a N2 Season Pass be the best Christmas present ever? We think so!”

To learn more about N2 memberships, track packages, and track days click here: www.N2td.org

N2 2020 Tentative Schedule. Additional dates will be added as they become available, including special training and race events:

Saturday, March 14 – Roebling Road

Sunday, March 15 – Roebling Road

Saturday, April 18 – CMP

Sunday, April 19 – CMP

Saturday, April 25 – Pitt Race

Sunday, April 26 – Pitt Race

Monday, April 27 – NJMP, Thunderbolt

Saturday, May 2 – NCBike

Sunday, May 3 – NCBike

Sunday, May 3 – Summit Shenandoah

Monday, May 4 – Summit Main

Friday, May 15 – Pitt Race (Endurance Practice)

Monday, May 18 – NJMP- Thunderbolt

Saturday, May 23 – Roebling Road

Sunday, May 24 – Roebling Road

Saturday, May 30 – NJMP- Lightning

Sunday, May 31 – NJMP – Thunderbolt

Friday, June 5 – Summit Main (Endurance Practice)

Saturday, June 6 – Pitt Race

Sunday, June 7 – Pitt Race

Monday, June 29 – NJMP – Lightning

Saturday, July 4 – Road Atlanta

Sunday, July 5 – Road Atlanta

Monday, July 6 – NJMP – Thunderbolt

Saturday, July 11 – Pitt Race

Sunday, July 12 – Pitt Race

Saturday, July 25 – NCBike

Sunday, July 26 – NCBike

Saturday, August 8 – Roebling Road

Sunday, August 9 – Roebling Road

Sunday, August 9 – Summit Shenandoah

Monday, August 10 – Summit Main

Monday, August 10 – NJMP – Thunderbolt

Saturday, August 15 – Pitt Race

Sunday, August 16 – Pitt Race

Friday, August 28 – Nelson (Endurance Practice)

Saturday, August 29 – CMP

Sunday, August 30 – CMP

Saturday, September 12 – Pitt Race

Sunday, September 13 – Pitt Race

Saturday, September 19 – Road Atlanta

Sunday, September 20 – Road Atlanta

Saturday, September 19 – NCBike

Sunday, September 20 – NCBike

Saturday, October 10 – Pitt Race

Sunday, October 11 – Pitt Race

Saturday, Nov 28 – Barber Motorsports Park

Sunday, Nov 29 – Barber Motorsports Park

About N2 Track Days:
N2 provides a structured riding environment for sport-bike riders of all levels promoting motorcycle safety through instruction on a closed course racetrack. Our instructors and coaching staff are comprised of club-racers, pro racers, and experienced track day riders who are articulate and passionate about all aspects of this sport. N2 strives to provide an enjoyable riding experience in an environment where members can hone their skills and inspire confidence in their riding ability. Riding with N2 means you and your sportbike gain access to a structured environment without the hazards, limitations, distractions and obstacles that you’ll find on the street.

N2 Track Days is proudly sponsored by:
Yamaha Motor Corporation USA, Pirelli Moto Tires, Dainese, Armour Bodies, YamaLube, GYTR, Impact SafeT Armor and Yamaha Champions Riding School.

For Information:

N2 Track Days – www.N2td.org

American Flat Track: NBC Sports Broadcast Partnership Extended

David Swarts

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November 23, 2019

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American Flat Track: NBC Sports Broadcast Partnership Extended

American Flat Track and NBC Sports Extend Media Rights Partnership

DAYTONA TT and Buffalo Chip TT to air same day on NBCSN

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – American Flat Track and NBCSN announced today a multi-year renewal of its broadcast partnership engineered to grow the audience of America’s Original Extreme Sport for 2020. The agreement includes two race day telecasts and the remaining events to be aired within one week. All events will be featured in one-hour telecasts with race coverage of AFT Singles, AFT Production Twins and flag-to-flag race coverage of the revamped AFT SuperTwins class.

For the first time in the history of the sport, two of AFT’s most-acclaimed events – the DAYTONA TT and Buffalo Chip TT – will air race day on NBCSN. American Flat Track’s coverage on NBCSN is expertly produced in-house in conjunction with NASCAR Productions, LLC to provide viewers with a window into the dramatic world of professional flat track racing.

Telecasts from all 18 events will feature extensive coverage of all racing classes. Exclusive features and editorial content highlight the triumphs and tribulations of the world’s elite dirt track motorcycle racers as they battle for glory. Cutting-edge technology, including aerial drone footage and onboard cameras will once again put viewers on the edge of their seats as the riders slide through the corners and draft each other down the straights at speeds of more than 130mph.

Fans looking to stream races in real time will be presented with a wide array of viewing options for 2020. For the enthusiast geared up to watch flag-to-flag coverage of all 18 rounds, from the moment engines fire to the second the final checkered flags are waved, NASCAR and NBC Sports Gold have teamed up to include AFT as part of TrackPass on NBC Sports Gold. Set to be the largest motorsports offering on the domestic digital marketplace, TrackPass on NBC Sports Gold will give fans access to live AFT races for a monthly fee of $1.99 or $10.99 annually. With streamlined accessibility across a wide variety of devices and platforms, TrackPass on NBC Sports Gold makes watching the world’s fastest growing two-wheeled motorsport that much easier. Existing FansChoice.tv registered users will receive an introductory free trial to TrackPass on NBC Sports Gold.

Free-to-air live streaming of on-track activity from Practice until the start of the Main events will continue on AmericanFlatTrack.com, AFT’s mobile app and AFT’s official page on Facebook.

“American Flat Track is recognized as the fastest-growing motorcycle racing series,” said Michael Lock, CEO of American Flat Track. “Our viewership on NBCSN has grown steadily, and live streaming numbers have increased exponentially in the last two years. The progression to same day coverage of our two most exciting events will allow us to expand our audience and deliver an even more impactful show in 2020.”

“We’re thrilled to extend our relationship with American Flat Track into the next decade,” said Jeff Macaluso, Senior Director, Programming of NBC Sports Group. “From race telecasts on NBCSN, including same day coverage for two of AFT’s most iconic events, to comprehensive live streaming coverage on TrackPass on NBC Sports Gold, fans will have more access than ever to watch American Flat Track racing across all platforms.”

In addition to its extensive domestic coverage, AFT continues to explore Its international distribution opportunities and expects to release plans for overseas viewership in the run up to its 2020 season.

American Flat Track will kick off its highly-anticipated 2020 season with the first-ever Saturday of Speed featuring the DAYTONA 200 and DAYTONA TT Doubleheader at Daytona International Speedway. It all kicks off at the peak of Daytona Bike Week on Saturday, March 14, 2020. Tickets start at just $35 online and are available for purchase now at www.americanflattrack.com.

For more information on American Flat Track and the upcoming 2020 season visit www.americanflattrack.com.

Get the latest American Flat Track clothing and merchandise at www.americanflattracker.com.

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

About NBCSN:

NBCSN is NBC Sports Group’s dedicated 24/7 linear sports network. Now in nearly 85 million homes, the Emmy Award-winning network is the cable television home of many of the most prestigious properties in sports, including the Summer and Winter Olympics, National Hockey League (NHL) – including two Stanley Cup Final games — NASCAR, IndyCar, Premier League, and Tour de France. In addition, NBCSN features college football, college basketball, college hockey, cycling, horse racing surrounding the Triple Crown and Breeders’ Cup, Ironman, Premier Lacrosse League, Premiership Rugby, and the Rugby World Cup. The network is also home to original programs such as PFT Live and NASCAR America. NBCSN is distributed via cable systems and satellite operators throughout the United States, and streams on NBCSports.com and the NBC Sports app.

About NBC Sports Gold:

NBC Sports Gold is NBC Sports’ direct-to-consumer live streaming product that provides sports fans with access to exclusive premium sports events and content, live and on-demand, at an affordable price. Launched in 2016 with a single cycling product, NBC Sports Gold currently offers 18 individual sports “passes” – twelve domestic (PGA TOUR LIVE, Premier League, Premier League Match Day, INDYCAR, Cycling, Track & Field, Premier Lacrosse League, Speed Skating, Rugby, Rugby World Cup, Supercross, and Snow, consisting of seven Olympic winter sports); two regional (Blazers and Philly); one combination (Supercross and Pro Motocross), two domestic and international (Figure Skating and Pro Motocross); and one international-only (Notre Dame Football). Find NBC Sports Gold in the NBC Sports app available in the U.S. on Apple iOS & tvOS, Android, Android TV, Amazon Fire TV, Roku, Chromecast and NBCSportsGold.com, and also on Xfinity X1 and Xfinity Flex
.

Yamaha Announces Pricing For 2021 Ténéré 700 Adventure Tourer

David Swarts

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November 22, 2019

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Yamaha Announces Pricing For 2021 Ténéré 700 Adventure Tourer

Yamaha Announces Price and Color Information for 2021 Ténéré 700

Arrival at Dealerships Expected in Early Summer of 2020

MARIETTA, Ga. – November 22, 2019 – Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA, today announced two more model colors for the 2021 Ténéré 700 Adventure Touring motorcycle along with suggested retail pricing and an update for expected delivery timing. In addition to the previously announced Ceramic Ice color, Matte Black and Intensity White color schemes will be available, with all three models carrying an MSRP of $9,999.

A complete lineup of Yamaha Genuine Accessories for the 2021 Ténéré 700 is currently in development, and Yamaha dealers will begin receiving both motorcycle and accessory inventory in the early summer of 2020. Anyone interested in purchasing the lightweight, go-anywhere Ténéré 700 can register to receive more information and updates from Yamaha by visiting https://www.yamahamotorsports.com/tenere-700-ims.

The Next Horizon is yours
With a spirit of adventure embedded in their DNA, Yamaha Adventure bikes are rugged, tough, and reliable. Each Ténéré model in the Adventure Touring segment opens up the possibilities of endless travel and enables riders to discover a feeling of utter freedom where the only limits exist within a rider’s imagination.

To find out more about the 2021 Ténéré 700, visit https://www.yamahamotorsports.com/adventure-touring/models/tenere-700.

For more information related to all Yamaha products, visit YamahaMotorsports.com.

Follow Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA, through your favorite social media site:
#Yamaha #YamahaMotor #YamahaMotorUSA

About Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA
Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA (YMUS), is a recognized leader in the powersports industry. The company’s ever-expanding product offerings include Motorcycles and Scooters, ATV and Side-by-Side vehicles, Snowmobiles, WaveRunner Personal Watercraft, Boats, Outboard Motors, Outdoor Power Equipment, Power Assist Bicycles, Golf Cars, Power Assist Wheelchair Systems, Surface Mount Technology (SMT) Machines, Unmanned Helicopters, Accessories, Apparel, and much more. YMUS products are sold through a nationwide network of distributors and dealers in the United States.

YMUS products are sold through a nationwide network of distributors and dealers in the United States. YMUS has a corporate office in California, two corporate offices in Georgia, facilities in Wisconsin and Alabama, and factory operations in Tennessee and Georgia. Additional U.S.-based subsidiaries include Yamaha Marine Systems Company (YMSC) with divisions Bennett Marine (Florida) and Kracor Systems (Wisconsin), Skeeter Boats (Texas), with division G3 Boats (Missouri), and Yamaha Precision Propeller (Indiana).

For more information about Yamaha, visit YamahaMotorsports.com.

The Future: A Kid Cries, Crashes, And Carries On Riding

November 24, 2019

A STACYC 12eDrive electric bike for kids. The company is running demos at the IMS Show at Long Beach.

By John Ulrich

I was wandering around the Progressive International Motorcycle Show in Long Beach, California when I stopped at the STACYC test course set up in The Kid Zone. STACYC, which was purchased by Harley-Davidson earlier this year, makes small electric bikes for kids, designed to bridge the gap between balance bikes (bicycles without pedals, like a Strider) and small motorcycles.

One small kid on the STACYC test course caught my eye. I’m not sure, but he looked to be about two or three years old to me. He was making laps on the oval course, and didn’t want to stop, evading capture several times before a large older man–I’ll assume it was his grandpa–finally managed to grab the bars and try to lift him off the machine as he held onto the bars with all he had and burst into tears. A ride attendant started removing the kid’s helmet, and the kid took his hands off the bars to grab the helmet and try to pull it back on, and when he did so, he was lifted off the bike. He was sobbing because he wanted to keep riding.

He mom led him, still crying, off the course and tried without success to calm him down and load him into a large stroller. I turned to watch other kids of various ages climbing onto the STACYC bikes in the test fleet, including ones with 12.5-inch wheels recommended for kids ages 3-5 and ones with 16-inch wheels for kids between 5-7 years old. (One kept her feet down and paddling as if she was on a Strider for awhile, but soon was riding feet up and rolling at a quicker pace.)

Soon the little kid was back in line with a determined look on his face, selecting the same helmet he rode with before, climbing on the same bike, and making laps. A few laps into his second ride around the polished concrete oval, he over-steered, tucked the front and crashed exiting a corner, flopping onto his belly. He looked surprised, but he didn’t cry. Instead, he got back up, and after the bike was righted, climbed back on and continued making laps–a lot of laps. He was figuring it out as he went, working his way past slower riders, lowering his lap times and keeping a wary eye out for any adults who might try to stop him. For a long time, nobody even tried to bring him in.

The first of two videos below shows the kid crashing, unhurt. The second video shows him after he got going again, getting more steady and quicker with each lap.

He finally pulled over when his grandpa walked halfway out onto the course and signaled him to pull over–but not before taking another lap. The kid then came to a stop, climbed off the bike, relinquished his helmet, and wandered off with his mom and grandpa.

I had just watched the birth of a future motorcycle rider.

The day before, I had been talking to Robert Pandya about his crusade to get more people riding motorcycles, starting with introducing little kids to Strider balance bikes and taking it from there. (He was turning adults into riders as part of the Discover The Ride program running at IMS–using Zero electric bikes with the power turned down and the top speed limited to about 11 mph–on a larger oval “New Rider Course.”) “It’s not that f—ing hard” to introduce people to two-wheeled fun and convert them into motorcyclists, he had told me.

I am sure the determined little kid I watched will be riding on a powered two-wheeler again sometime, someplace. He might continue with electric machines, or transition to internal combustion, or ride both.

But one way or another, that kid is now a rider, and he’ll be back.

Pandya is on to something.

More information on the Discover The Ride programs for both adults and kids at IMS shows is available from MotorcycleShows.com

(Above) Four Time 500cc Grand Prix World Champion Eddie Lawson makes a lap aboard a Zero electric motorcycle on the Discover The Ride program’s New Rider Course at the IMS show in Long Beach. Unlike the STACYC course, this much larger course has carpet laid down over the polished concrete floor. Photo courtesy Robert Pandya.

Eddie Lawson poses with Robert Pandya after making a lap of the New Rider Course. Photo courtesy Robert Pandya.

Four-time AMA Superbike Champion Josh Hayes poses with Robert Pandya. Photo courtesy Robert Pandya.

Riders line up at the start of a session on the New Rider Course as part of the IMS Discover The Ride program. Photo courtesy Robert Pandya.

Moto2: Augusto Fernandez Replaces Alex Marquez At Team Estrella Galicia 0,0 Marc VDS

November 24, 2019

Augusto Fernandez (right) with Team Estrella Galicia 0,0 Marc VDS Team Manager Joan Olive (left). Photo courtesy of Team Estrella Galicia 0,0 Marc VDS.