Westby Racing Team Completes Successful Test At Carolina Motorsports Park
Tulsa, OK – October 8, 2019 – After one weekend off following the conclusion of the 2019 MotoAmerica Superbike season at Barber Motorsports Park, Mathew Scholtz and the Westby Racing team got a head start on the 2020 MotoAmerica season by conducting a test session at Carolina Motorsports Park (CMP) in Kershaw, South Carolina this past weekend. Performance Riding Experience (P.R.E.) hosted track days at CMP on Saturday and Sunday, and they invited Mathew and the team to test during the two-day event.
According to team manager Chuck Giacchetto, “We were all very excited to get the 2020 season started with a test at Carolina Motorsports Park as guests of RidePRE.com track days. Our plan for the two days was to test and verify some new settings that crew chief Ed Sullivan and data technician Herschel Auxier have been anxious to try for a while now. We looked at several electronics parameters, including traction control, launch control, and everything in-between, and we also tried some new strategies as well as verifying some current ones.
“During the final two rounds of the 2019 MotoAmerica season, it was clear that the team was working in a positive direction, and on the final lap of the 77 laps that Mathew did during the two days at CMP, the team made great strides.
“The goal for the team is quite simple, really. We want to build the perfect beast, and everyone is working hard to achieve that goal. I’d like to give a special thanks to our rider Mathew who is laser-focused on not only riding and training but also on continuing to work though the sophisticated electronics. Mathew’s focus was intense this weekend at CMP, and the results showed.”
Mathew said, “It was good to get back to riding again so soon after the season ended. We’d come up with some improvements to the electronics at the final couple of rounds, and I was really glad that we were able to work some more on getting those settings even more finely tuned. Track days are sometimes tough to test at when you’re sharing the track with riders of different talent levels, but we got a lot of clean, fast laps in, and our hats are off to the P.R.E. folks for enabling us to test at CMP.”
Mathew and the team also plan to test at VIRginia International Raceway, Barber Motorsports Park, and the Circuit of The Americas before the end of the calendar year.
For more Westby Racing updates, including news, photos, and videos, visit https://www.westbyracing.com
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Recently crowned five-time WorldSBK champion Jonathan Rea and his team-mate Leon Haslam will take their official Ninja ZX-10RRs to Argentina this coming weekend for the penultimate round of the championship.
The 12th round of the 2019 campaign will take place at the Circuito San Juan Villicum for the second time in its short history, after the 4.276km long layout in the west of Argentina made its popular debut on the championship calendar last season.
The fantastic setting of the Villicum circuit is very much a known quantity to Rea as he won both races in 2018, on his way to world title number four. Having already wrapped-up title number five last time out, in France, Rea can approach the Argentinean round in a relatively relaxed mood this weekend. He will, as ever, be determined to succeed once he gets into qualifying and race modes.
Haslam is looking forward to his first trip to Villicum having heard positive things about it, and having watched the San Juan races on TV last season.
Sitting sixth in the championship right now Leon has six individual races in which to move back up the official rankings before the end of the last day of the season in Qatar on 26th October.
Although Rea is already the Riders’ Champion for 2019 the Manufacturers’ and Teams’ Championships are still undecided. Kawasaki and KRT currently lead each of those rankings with two final rounds to go.
With a modified time schedule for this round in South America there will still be the usual practice sessions and races for the WorldSBK class. Track action will begin on Friday 11th with two Free Practice periods. Superpole and then a full distance 21-lap Race One will take place on Saturday 12th October, with the ten-lap Tissot-Superpole ‘sprint’ race on Sunday, followed by a full distance Race Two.
Jonathan Rea, stated: “I am so relieved to go to Argentina with the championship already done. It means I can enjoy these last few races without stressing too much about the points situation and really enjoy the end of the season. Last year was our first visit in Argentina and we were really surprised with the reception we got, the level of the track and also the fans that turned out. I am excited to go out there and see what’s ahead. I am also looking forward to riding the bike again. I think this is going to be a circuit where we can be strong. Last year we were certainly strong in some areas. I am also looking forward to seeing the guys again and re-living what we did a little bit last weekend – it was really special. To do it with all these guys who have been with me every step of the way, every single year, it’s even more special.”
Leon Haslam, stated: “Argentina next and I have never been there before, so it’s a new circuit for me, and that is something that I am obviously looking forward to. I watched the race last year and it looked quite exciting and fun, and the track had a lot of character to it. Going to this circuit is a new challenge but it’s something that I am looking forward to. It was a bit of a hard weekend in Magny Cours, with a crash and a few issues that we were struggling with. I hope to rectify that and get back to fighting for that podium.”
Top independent rider Toprak Razgatlioglu (Turkish Puccetti Racing) scored his first two career wins at the previous round in France and now looks for more potential wins and podium success in South America. He is now fifth in the overall championship standings just 19 points from third place.
Jordi Torres (Team Pedercini Racing Kawasaki) sits 11th in the championship fight after the 11th round. He is just five points from tenth place with six individual races still to go in 2019.
The forthcoming weekend is a very special one for Leandro Mercado (Orelac Racing VerdNatura Kawasaki) as Villicum is his home round. Despite losing two race weekends to injury early in the year Leandro is 15th from the 28 riders who have scored points in 2019 so far.
2019 KRT Rider WorldSBK Statistics
Jonathan Rea: World Champion 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018 & 2019
2019: Races 31, Wins 12, Podiums 28, Superpoles 6
Career Race Wins: 83 (68 for Kawasaki)
Career Podiums: 162 (120 for Kawasaki)
Career Poles: 22 (18 for Kawasaki)
Leon Haslam:
2019: Races: 31, Wins 0, Podiums 6, Superpoles 0
Career Race Wins: 5 (0 for Kawasaki)
Career Podiums: 45 (7 for Kawasaki)
Career Poles: 3 (0 for Kawasaki)
7 x Riders’ Championships (Scott Russell 1993, Tom Sykes 2013, Rea 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018 & 2019), 1 x EVO Riders’ Championship (David Salom 2014)
4 x Manufacturers’ Championships (Ninja ZX-10R 2015 & 2016, Ninja ZX-10RR 2017 & 2018)
4 x Teams’ Championships (KRT/Provec Racing 2015, 2016, 2017 & 2018)
Kawasaki FIM Superbike World Championship Statistics
Total Kawasaki Race Wins: 141 – second overall
Total Kawasaki Podiums: 424 – second overall
Total Kawasaki Poles: 87 – second overall
The 2019 AHRMA Vintage Cup 350 GP class, sponsored by RoadracingWorld.com and NYC Norton, had its culminating event at the 15th annual Barber Motorsports Park Vintage Festival on October 5th and 6th.
The racing was, as usual, incredibly close throughout the field. There were a lot of entries for this premier race weekend, and racing was exciting from the front to the back of the pack. Saturday’s race winner was Dave Roper, Mr. Saturday, who has, throughout the season, shown that he can pull a win off on Saturday while the others go to school on him on Sundays. We also saw some good racing for 2nd and 3rd between Alex McLean and Canadian Dean De St. Croix, who has come back to race with AHRMA after a 10-year absence—a welcome return! The podium was Roper in 1st, De St. Croix in 2nd, and McLean in 3rd.
Sunday’s racing saw McLean sit the race out, having already secured the 350 GP Vintage Cup national championship. Roper shot out with a sizeable lead at the start of the race, with De St. Croix in 2nd place and Jack Parker rounding out the top three. De St. Croix put his head down and started to chip away, and on the seventh lap was able to pass Roper, whose bike had begun breaking up toward the end of the race. Meanwhile, Parker dropped back and Jim Jowers, riding a beautifully turned out AJS 7R, put the moves on to take third. The podium saw De St. Croix in 1st, Roper in 2nd, and Jowers in 3rd place.
This has been an incredibly successful debut of the AHRMA Vintage Cup. We’re looking forward to doing it again next year, with the 500 Premier/500 GP classes as AHRMA’s Vintage Cup for 2020.
AHRMA Vintage Cup (350 GP) Race Results (Oct. 5):
David Roper (1970 H-D ERTT)
Alex McLean (1967 H-D Aermacchi Drixton), -2.829 seconds
Dean De St. Croix (1958 BSA Geoff Monty Gold Star), -5.118
Jack Parker (1968 Yam DT250), -19.883
Walt Fulton (H-D), -30.170
Jason Roberts (1968 Yam DT-1), -31.383
Jim Jowers (Seeley 7R), -31.901
Jonathan Hollingsworth (1973 H-D), -37.953
Don Hollingsworth (1973 H-D Sprint), -40.656
Jerry Duke (Duc), -41.960
Jason Lindquist (1968 Yam DT-1), -42.341
Robert Aegerter (H-D Aermacchi), -53.879
Richard Hollingsworth (1972 H-D Sprint), -1 lap
Stan Miller (1966 Suz T20), -1 lap
Tim O’Donnell (1969 Duc Mk3 350), -1 lap
Eric Watts (1972 Duc 350), -3 laps
Christian Jensen (Duc 350), 04 laps
AHRMA Vintage Cup (350 GP) Race Results (Oct. 6):
Dean De St. Croix (1958 BSA Geoff Monty Gold Star)
HAFIZH SYAHRIN RETURNS TO MOTO2 WITH ÁNGEL NIETO TEAM
Malaysian rider completes Ángel Nieto Team line-up for intermediate category in 2020
Hafizh Syahrin will return to the Moto2 World Championship in 2020 with the Ángel Nieto Team. The Malaysian rider, who has spent the last two seasons in MotoGP, moves back to the intermediate category where he made his Grand Prix debut as a wildcard in 2011. Syahrin will line up alongside Spanish rider Aron Canet, who steps up to Moto2 after fighting for the Moto3 World Championship title.
Syahrin became a full-time Grand Prix rider in 2014 and made swift progress to become a top ten championship finisher in both 2016 and 2017, scoring several podiums along the way. For the 2018 season he made the step up to MotoGP, where he has spent the past two seasons.
Jorge Martínez “Aspar”: “I would like to welcome Hafizh Syahrin to our team. It is great news for us to sign such an experienced rider to our new challenge in the Moto2 class. We are planning a big step forward in 2020, we are raising the bar and I know that both Hafizh and his future teammate Aron Canet will help us reach it. Syahrin is a rider who already has several years of experience in this category and we have confidence in his ability to achieve big things.”
Hafizh Syahrin: “I think that together with the Ángel Nieto Team we can do a good job next season. Moto2 is not a new category for me because I already spent several years there, but now I will have a different chassis, a different engine with more power and different tyres. I have raced against the majority of riders in this class and I think I can mix it up at the front. I will give my best to be a top five rider, I have faith in the team because I have worked with a few of them before, and I think we can do a good job.”
Razlan Razali (CEO of Sepang International Circuit): “We are extremely pleased to be supporting Hafizh for 2020 in the Moto2 category with Angel Nieto Team. We are confident that Hafizh can mount a serious challenge to Championship next year. Hafizh is a national icon, mentor and an inspiration to the youth of Malaysia and it is great that he will continue his efforts and a possible comeback to the MotoGP category in 2021. Hafizh is a credible and competitive rider and his presence in the world championship will ensure continued success of Asian riders.
YB Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman (Minister of Youth and Sports): “Hafizh is a talented Malaysian athlete and the Ministry fully supports his decision to continue participating in the international racing scene in the Moto2 category. His previous experience and achievement would grant him a competitive edge over his peers and this would make him a serious contender to fight for more podium places next year. I wish him well and cannot wait to hear our ‘Negaraku’ song being played in his honour all over the world.”
British rider Leon Haslam will leave the official Kawasaki Racing Team at the end of the 2019 season after some strong showings in his first season back in the WorldSBK paddock after three years of successful BSB competition.
After winning the BSB Championship title in 2018 Leon was brought into the KRT WorldSBK set-up to join forces with record-breaking champion Jonathan Rea.
He had an immediate positive impact inside the overall KRT awning which culminated in winning the Suzuka 8 Hours race in partnership with Jonathan on the Ninja ZX-10RR.
Leon’s six podium scores – so far – in his comeback year prove that his 2019 adventure was another positive step along his incredible career path, spanning WorldSBK, BSB, MotoGP and EWC series, always competing strongly when he had competitive machinery.
In 2019 so far Leon has scored two podiums apiece at Phillip Island, Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli and his much loved home circuit of Donington Park in England. He also scored a wildcard podium finish on a Kawasaki in 2017, at Donington, while riding for Kawasaki Puccetti Racing team. With races in Argentina and Qatar yet to come, the 36 year old Derbyshire based rider may yet increase his 2019 tally on the KRT Ninja ZX-10RR.
In a career that has spanned over 20 years of top-level international competition, Leon has an enviable WorldSBK record, both with Kawasaki and no fewer than five other manufacturers.
All at Kawasaki and KRT wish Leon the very best of good fortune in his future career.
Guim Roda, KRT Team Manager, stated:
“KRT and KHI welcomed Leon into the team after a nine year period with Tom Sykes. It was an ideal chance for him to regain experience inside the WorldSBK paddock and an incentive after winning the British Superbike title plus previous success at the Suzuka 8-Hours.
“A primary target for 2019 was for Leon to experience the KRT way of working and to take his race rhythm and performance to a new level with goals like competing at Suzuka as a tempting prospect. Winning the 2019 8 Hours race with Jonathan Rea after a 25 year gap for Kawasaki was certainly an incredible achievement alongside regular top five placings in WorldSBK including several podium visits.
“To achieve all of this despite being away from WorldSBK for three years is testament to Leon’s skill as a rider – especially as he has endured injuries this year, many of which have not been apparent and have certainly not hindered his hunger for success. It is my hope that Leon can stay within the Kawasaki family for 2020 and use his KRT experience on factory Ninja machinery to achieve yet more success as well as competing again at the Suzuka 8-Hours. Everyone at KRT wishes Leon well for the future”.
Steve Guttridge, Kawasaki Europe Racing Manager – added:
“It is fitting that the 2018 British Superbike Champion should follow that success with a season at KRT.
“We at Kawasaki are proud of his achievements on Ninja machinery and wish him all the very best in the next phase of an incredible career”.
Featured in the September 2019 issue of Roadracing World:
Honda and Yamaha have dominated premier-class Grand Prix racing for the last four decades, winning 33 of the last 36 Rider World Championships and 35 of the last 36 Constructor World Championships.
Honda entered the 500cc class in 1966, contested two seasons, withdrew for a decade, returned in 1979 and has fought for the crown of kings every year since 1983. Yamaha joined the contest in the early 1970s and has never left.
So far the 500cc/MotoGP numbers look like this: Honda has 20 rider titles and 24 constructor titles since 1966. Yamaha has 17 rider titles and 14 constructor titles since 1975. Honda is undoubtedly the stronger force right now, winning six of the last eight Rider World Championships, with Casey Stoner and Marc Marquez, and eight of the last nine Constructor World Championships with the RC212V and RC213V.
Yamaha’s YZR-M1 has been mostly in the doldrums since the change to spec electronics and Michelin tires in 2016. But the Iwata factory is planning a major fightback for 2020 …
–Old Foes, New Tech/MotoGP Analysis, by Mat Oxley
In the highly restricted world of MotoGP engineering, details make the difference between the top step of the podium and bottom of the top 10. MotoGP Editor Mat Oxley looks at the details that differentiate the two heavyweights in the MotoGP ring. Get an inside look at MotoGP’s longest-standing rivalry in the September issue of Roadracing World!
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LOUDON, N.H. – The 2019 Loudon Road Race Series season, which featured 174 expert riders, 134 amateur riders and 60 novice riders, closed with the completion of round seven as the riders took on the 1.6-mile road course this past weekend at New Hampshire Motor Speedway. Many competitors ended their season adding a few more achievements and milestones to their personal records.
“It was probably one of the greatest feelings I think I’ll ever feel,” said Daniel Weems reflecting on his first career expert win, which included beating veteran expert rider Scott Greenwood, in round six’s Heavyweight Supersport. “Not very many people beat old Scotty, but I got the jump on him from the start, and it was kind of like waiting for a shark attack. The halfway point came, then the white flag came and I was screaming at myself, ‘brake, apex, gas.’ I was sliding absolutely everywhere, and then I hit the checkered flag. I haven’t felt that since I won my first amateur race two years ago.”
LRRS racer Daniel Weems (368). Photo by Martin Hanlon, courtesy of LRRS/NHMS.
Abington, Mass. native Weems, who started racing with the Loudon Road Race Series in 2017 as an amateur, completed his second expert season this past weekend taking home a top five and a top 15. Now that he’s beaten Greenwood in the wet, he has shifted his focus to beating him in the dry in, what he’s hoping, the 2020 season.
Many riders improved their skills enough to jump up a class during the 2019 season, landing in a whole new starting grid as they eagerly awaited the green flag on the front stretch. More than 20 riders earned amateur level credentials after successfully exceeding the requirements of novice level riding, and a few, like 13-year-old Brianna McHugh, who was a first-time LRRS competitor this season, improved exponentially well, earning them expert status.
LRRS racer Brianna McHugh (214). Photo by Martin Hanlon, courtesy of LRRS/NHMS.
“I’m part of the Penguin Roadracing School mentor program,” said McHugh, a Rindge, N.H. native who achieved two top fives and two top tens in round seven. “Eric, John and everyone on the team really helped me out a ton, and I can’t thank them enough. I’ve made so much improvement just because of them.”
After a successful 2018 season, Milton, Vt. native Tyler Wasserbauer made the leap from amateur to expert to begin his second season with LRRS and managed to secure the 2019 expert GTO championship.
LRRS racer Tyler Wasserbauer (158). Photo by Martin Hanlon, courtesy of LRRS/NHMS.
“Cory [Hildebrand] kind of gave the GTO championship to me,” said Wasserbauer. “He’s faster than me and I have yet to beat him, but he didn’t go out in the rain, so that was the difference in the championship. The transition from a 600 to a 1,000 was a big step, and then also going from amateur to expert was a big step, so it was a lot of change at once. I’m lucky more than anything.”
A little bit of luck may have been on his side in earning the title of 2019 expert GTO champion, but nonetheless, Wasserbauer’s achievements in his first year as an expert rider landed him on the podium 17 out of a possible 28 times, proving he more than deserves a championship title. He closed out round seven with two podium finishes, a top five and a top 10.
The awards banquet honoring the 2019 champions from the Loudon Road Race Series, MOAT Mountain Road Course Series and J&J’s Yolk & Co. Oval Series is on November 16 at Foxwoods Resort Casino in Mashantucket, Conn. The Loudon Road Race Series will return to New Hampshire Motor Speedway in the spring to kick off the 2020 season.
2019 Fall Cycle Scene: Entertainment On and Off the Track at DIS
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (October 7, 2019) C Daytona International Speedway offers motorcycle enthusiasts a host of activities to enjoy during Fall Cycle Scene, Oct. 17-20, both on and off the track.
Team Hammer Riding School kicks off the on-track action on Friday before the Championship Cup Series (CCS) and American Sportbike Racing Association (ASRA) take to the 3.51-mile road course to crown their season champions on Saturday and Sunday.
The Midway, located along the speedway’s frontstretch just off of International Speedway Blvd., is open Thursday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. and Sunday, 9 a.m.-noon; it includes the area’s largest motorcycle marketplace with everything from the nation’s top motorcycle parts to Hot Leathers fashion as well as bike shows and Harley-Davidson Thunder Alley; admission is FREE. Activities in the Midway include:
・ Harley-Davidson Thunder Alley: Bikers can spend the day at Harley-Davidson Thunder Alley, located in the Midway, enjoying a cold Budweiser, live music on the main stage, contests and great food.
・ Vendors and displays: Guests can visit the area’s largest vendor and display marketplace with over 50 of the nation’s top aftermarket product vendors or get a close-up look at what the cruiser and sport bike manufacturers and custom bike builders have to offer in their display areas.
・ Yaffe’s Baddest Bagger Bike Show: The country’s biggest bike show series will take place Friday, Oct. 18, located just east of the AdventHealth injector. Registration is from 10 a.m.-noon with the awards ceremony taking place at 3 p.m. on the Harley-Davidson Thunder Alley stage. Bikes will be judged based on five classes determined by front-wheel size: Stock, up to 21-inches; Modified, up to 23-inches; Radical, up to 26-inches or wide tires up to 240mm; Pro, 30- to 32-inches; SRT (Steam Roller Touring)/Performance, a new class celebrating emerging trends in the custom bagger scene. Trophies will be awarded to the top three baggers in each class and the overall Baddest Bagger at Biketoberfest as well as for Best Paint, People’s Choice Award, Urban Rides Pick, Paul Yaffe’s Bagger Nation Award, Yaffe’s Best Attention to Detail Award, Yaffe’s Most Innovative Award and BAB-USA Pick. Winners will also be featured in Urban Rides Magazine.
・ Full Throttle Magazine Bike Show presented by GEICO will take place on Saturday, Oct. 19, located just east of the AdventHealth injector. Registration is from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. with a $20 entry fee per bike. The awards presentation will be held at 5 p.m. on the Harley-Davidson Thunder Alley Stage. Trophies will be awarded in 10 categories and a $500 cash prize will be awarded to Best in Show. The 10 categories include:
・ Hot Leathers Fashion Show: The Hot Leathers Fashion Show will take place Saturday, Oct. 19 at 1 p.m. on the Harley-Davidson Thunder Alley Stage.
Camping and motorcycle trailer parking are also available at the Speedway. RV camping in the infield’s Gecko Shores at Lake Lloyd (with hook-ups) is available for $295 and GEICO Grounds Red (without hook-ups) is $175; both include two (2) three-day adult admissions for the weekend’s racing activities; kids 12 and under are FREE. Tent camping in the GEICO Campgrounds, located inside Turns 3 and 4, is FREE with your daily or weekend admission ticket. Motorcycle trailer parking, located in GEICO Park West, just outside of Turn 1, is just $25 for the week C no camping or race ticket required. For more information, call 1-800-PITSHOP.
A three-day infield admission ticket can be purchased in advance for $50 at www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com, or by calling 1-800-PITSHOP. Tickets can also be purchased at the gate for $10 on Friday and $25 per day Saturday and Sunday; kids 12 and under are FREE. All tickets include access to the infield, UNOH Fanzone and the garage as well as FREE parking.
Fans can stay connected with Daytona International Speedway on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, YouTube and Snapchat, and by downloading Daytona International Speedway’s mobile app, for the latest Speedway news throughout the season.
KAWASAKI MOTORS CORP., U.S.A. ANNOUNCES 2020 MOTORCYCLE LINEUP INCLUDING THE NEW NINJA® 650 MOTORCYCLE
NEW 2020 Ninja® 650 motorcycle
Ride Bold
For 2020, the new Kawasaki Ninja 650 features the tried and true 650cc parallel twin cylinder power plant and new styling, as well as a high-performance chassis and a full suite of state of the art advanced rider support features. What makes the Ninja 650 one of the most well-balanced and exciting motorcycles for a daily commute or an afternoon out on some tight, winding, back roads is the strong parallel twin engine and sporty lightweight chassis, which delivers smooth and agile handling. Developed to offer the ideal blend of sporty performance and everyday versatility for a wide range of riders, the Ninja 650 keeps the good times rolling. The Ninja 650 features sharp, new styling, new LED headlights, TFT color display, smartphone connectivity via RIDEOLOGY THE APP, as well as several other new updates.
In addition, the following motorcycles are returning for 2020:
Hypersport
Ninja® H2R
Ninja® H2
Ninja® H2 Carbon
Ninja® H2 SX SE+
Supersport
Ninja® ZX™-10R ABS
Ninja® ZX™-6R
Ninja® ZX™-14R
Sport
Ninja® 400 ABS
Z Family
Z125 PRO
Z400
Z900RS ABS
Z900RS CAFE
W
W800 CAFE
Versys®
Versys®-X 300 ABS
Versys® 650 ABS
Versys® 650 LT
Versys® 1000 SE LT+
Supersport Touring
Concours®14 ABS
Cruisers
Vulcan® S ABS
Vulcan® S ABS CAFE
Vulcan® 900 Classic
Vulcan® 900 Classic LT
Vulcan® 900 Custom
Vulcan® 1700 Vaquero® ABS
Vulcan® 1700 Voyager® ABS
More, from another press release issued by Kawasaki:
2020 KAWASAKI NINJA® 650 MOTORCYCLE
Ride Bold
The left side view of a black 2020 Kawasaki Ninja 650.
Kawasaki is no stranger to the pursuit of performance, excitement, and all out fun, and nothing embodies this philosophy more than the new 2020 Ninja® 650 motorcycle. It’s one of the most well balanced motorcycles Kawasaki has produced, blending the fun and easy handling with optimal engine and chassis performance, and the legendary sleek Kawasaki Ninja® styling. For 2020, the new Kawasaki Ninja 650 features the tried and true 650cc parallel twin cylinder power plant and new styling, as well as a high-performance chassis and a full suite of state of the art advanced rider support features.
What makes the Ninja 650 one of the most well-balanced and exciting motorcycles for a daily commute or an afternoon out on some tight, winding, back roads is the strong parallel twin engine and sporty lightweight chassis, which delivers smooth and agile handling.
Developed to offer the ideal blend of sporty performance and everyday versatility for a wide range of riders, the Ninja 650 keeps the good times rolling. The Ninja 650 features sharp, new styling, new LED headlights, TFT color display, smartphone connectivity via RIDEOLOGY THE APP, as well as several other new updates.
Highlights of the 2020 NINJA 650
NEW Styling with Twin LED Headlights
NEW TFT Color Instrumentation
NEW Smartphone Connectivity via RIDEOLOGY THE APP
NEW Dunlop Sportmax Roadsport 2 Tires
NEW Upper Cowl, Windshield, and Passenger Seat
The restyled front cowl of the 2020 Kawasaki Ninja 650.
Styling
The sharp new styling of the Ninja 650 gives the motorcycle an even sportier appearance and even stronger Ninja family appearance. Its sleek and sporty design catches the attention of new and seasoned riders alike.
The new upper cowl is wider, with more sleek contours that help create the sporty appearance. Prioritizing a sportier look, the redesigned windshield is now lower and flush-fit with the upper cowl. It’s set at a more upright angle to offer the rider increased wind protection. Another new styling feature to the Ninja 650 is the addition of the twin LED headlights, each featuring low and high beam as well as a position lamp. To further enhance the image of the motorcycle fairing bolts have been replaced by hooks, which create a clean, smooth surface for a high-class appeal.
Increased passenger comfort also complements the new styling of the Ninja 650, with a thicker and wider urethane passenger seat.
The new TFT dashboard of the 2020 Kawasaki Ninja 650.
TFT Color Instrumentation
The new 4.3” all-digital TFT color instrumentation– a Kawasaki first in the 650cc class – gives the cockpit of the Ninja 650 motorcycle a high-tech, high-grade appearance. The new meter also offers additional features.
The full color display features TFT (thin-film transistor) technology, which delivers a high level of visibility. The screen’s background color is selectable (black or white), and screen brightness adjusts automatically to suit available light. Display functions include: digital speedometer, digital bar-style tachometer, gear position indicator, shift lamp, fuel gauge, odometer, dual trip meters, current and average fuel consumption, remaining range, average speed, total time, coolant temperature, clock, battery voltage, Kawasaki service reminder, oil change reminder, and Economical Riding Indicator.
Smartphone Connectivity
Another Kawasaki first for the middleweight Ninja® line of motorcycles is the addition of Smartphone Connectivity. A chip built into the instrument panel enables riders to connect to their motorcycle wirelessly. Using RIDEOLOGY THE APP, a number of instrument functions can be accessed, logged, and reviewed contributing to an enhanced motorcycling experience. The following information can be viewed:
1. Vehicle Info
Check latest status update
2. Riding Log
Can be logged in detail, and played back for review
Route, Distance & Time traveled can be logged for review
Riding conditions can be recorded in detail
3. Telephone Notifications
Provides a notification on dash when a call or mail is received by smartphone
4. Tuning
General instrument display setting changes can be made on your smartphone
The app can also be used when away from the motorcycle. When riding (with the app ON), the bike and smartphone are always connected and riding log data is being recorded by the app. After your ride, the latest riding information is stored by the app and may be viewed on the smartphone. Any changes made via the app while the engine is off, or while out of range, will be implemented as soon as the ignition is turned on and the smartphone is in range with the app ON.
The 2020 Kawasaki Ninja 650 comes wearing new Dunlop Sportmax Roadsport 2 tires.
Tires
Enhancing performance on the 2020 Ninja 650 are the new Dunlop Sportmax Roadsport 2 tires, which help to improve upon the lightweight and nimble handling of the Ninja 650.
Accessories
Kawasaki offers a full line of Kawasaki Genuine Accessories (KGA) including a larger windshield, helmet lock, TFT meter protection film, Ergo-Fit™ high seat (+30 mm), oil filler cap, tank pad, pillion seat cover, semi-soft panniers, top case, DC outlet (50 W), , U-lock, radiator screen, frame sliders, tank pad, and knee pads.
Colors
The 2020 Kawasaki Ninja 650 is available in:
Lime Green / Ebony (Kawasaki Racing Team KRT)
Metallic Spark Black
Pearl Blizzard White
MSRP
Starting at $7,399 (Non-ABS)
ABOUT KAWASAKI
Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. (KHI) started full-scale production of motorcycles over a half century ago. The first Kawasaki motorcycle engine was designed based on technical know-how garnered from the development and production of aircraft engines, and Kawasaki’s entry into the motorcycle industry was driven by the company’s constant effort to develop new technologies. Numerous new Kawasaki models introduced over the years have helped shape the market, and in the process have created enduring legends based on their unique engineering, power, design and riding pleasure. In the future, Kawasaki’s commitment to maintaining and furthering these strengths will surely give birth to new legends.
Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. (KMC) markets and distributes Kawasaki motorcycles, ATVs, side x sides, and Jet Ski® watercraft through a network of almost 1,100 independent retailers, with close to an additional 7,400 retailers specializing in general purpose engines. KMC and its affiliates employ nearly 3,100 people in the United States, with approximately 250 of them located at KMC’s Foothill Ranch, California headquarters.
Kawasaki’s tagline, “Let the good times roll.®”, is recognized worldwide. The Kawasaki brand is synonymous with powerful, stylish and category-leading vehicles. Information about Kawasaki’s complete line of powersports products and Kawasaki affiliates can be found on the Internet at www.kawasaki.com.
David Bourbeau (1I) narrowly defeated Ralph Wessell (81) in each of the AHRMA Handshift Shootout races at the 2019 Barber Vintage Festival. Photo by etechphoto.com, courtesy AHRMA.
AHRMA American Historic Racing Series/Barber Vintage Festival
Mathew Scholtz (11) during a previous test on his Westby Racing Yamaha Superbike at Carolina Motorsports Park. Photo by Lee Fields/Active Shooter Photography, courtesy of Westby Racing.
Westby Racing Team Completes Successful Test At Carolina Motorsports Park
Tulsa, OK – October 8, 2019 – After one weekend off following the conclusion of the 2019 MotoAmerica Superbike season at Barber Motorsports Park, Mathew Scholtz and the Westby Racing team got a head start on the 2020 MotoAmerica season by conducting a test session at Carolina Motorsports Park (CMP) in Kershaw, South Carolina this past weekend. Performance Riding Experience (P.R.E.) hosted track days at CMP on Saturday and Sunday, and they invited Mathew and the team to test during the two-day event.
According to team manager Chuck Giacchetto, “We were all very excited to get the 2020 season started with a test at Carolina Motorsports Park as guests of RidePRE.com track days. Our plan for the two days was to test and verify some new settings that crew chief Ed Sullivan and data technician Herschel Auxier have been anxious to try for a while now. We looked at several electronics parameters, including traction control, launch control, and everything in-between, and we also tried some new strategies as well as verifying some current ones.
“During the final two rounds of the 2019 MotoAmerica season, it was clear that the team was working in a positive direction, and on the final lap of the 77 laps that Mathew did during the two days at CMP, the team made great strides.
“The goal for the team is quite simple, really. We want to build the perfect beast, and everyone is working hard to achieve that goal. I’d like to give a special thanks to our rider Mathew who is laser-focused on not only riding and training but also on continuing to work though the sophisticated electronics. Mathew’s focus was intense this weekend at CMP, and the results showed.”
Mathew said, “It was good to get back to riding again so soon after the season ended. We’d come up with some improvements to the electronics at the final couple of rounds, and I was really glad that we were able to work some more on getting those settings even more finely tuned. Track days are sometimes tough to test at when you’re sharing the track with riders of different talent levels, but we got a lot of clean, fast laps in, and our hats are off to the P.R.E. folks for enabling us to test at CMP.”
Mathew and the team also plan to test at VIRginia International Raceway, Barber Motorsports Park, and the Circuit of The Americas before the end of the calendar year.
For more Westby Racing updates, including news, photos, and videos, visit https://www.westbyracing.com
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Although he has already clinched the 2019 Superbike World Championship, Jonathan Rea (1) is still looking to help secure the 2019 Team and Manufacturer Championships for Kawasaki.
Adventure In Argentina For KRT Riders
Recently crowned five-time WorldSBK champion Jonathan Rea and his team-mate Leon Haslam will take their official Ninja ZX-10RRs to Argentina this coming weekend for the penultimate round of the championship.
The 12th round of the 2019 campaign will take place at the Circuito San Juan Villicum for the second time in its short history, after the 4.276km long layout in the west of Argentina made its popular debut on the championship calendar last season.
The fantastic setting of the Villicum circuit is very much a known quantity to Rea as he won both races in 2018, on his way to world title number four. Having already wrapped-up title number five last time out, in France, Rea can approach the Argentinean round in a relatively relaxed mood this weekend. He will, as ever, be determined to succeed once he gets into qualifying and race modes.
Haslam is looking forward to his first trip to Villicum having heard positive things about it, and having watched the San Juan races on TV last season.
Sitting sixth in the championship right now Leon has six individual races in which to move back up the official rankings before the end of the last day of the season in Qatar on 26th October.
Although Rea is already the Riders’ Champion for 2019 the Manufacturers’ and Teams’ Championships are still undecided. Kawasaki and KRT currently lead each of those rankings with two final rounds to go.
With a modified time schedule for this round in South America there will still be the usual practice sessions and races for the WorldSBK class. Track action will begin on Friday 11th with two Free Practice periods. Superpole and then a full distance 21-lap Race One will take place on Saturday 12th October, with the ten-lap Tissot-Superpole ‘sprint’ race on Sunday, followed by a full distance Race Two.
Jonathan Rea, stated: “I am so relieved to go to Argentina with the championship already done. It means I can enjoy these last few races without stressing too much about the points situation and really enjoy the end of the season. Last year was our first visit in Argentina and we were really surprised with the reception we got, the level of the track and also the fans that turned out. I am excited to go out there and see what’s ahead. I am also looking forward to riding the bike again. I think this is going to be a circuit where we can be strong. Last year we were certainly strong in some areas. I am also looking forward to seeing the guys again and re-living what we did a little bit last weekend – it was really special. To do it with all these guys who have been with me every step of the way, every single year, it’s even more special.”
Leon Haslam, stated: “Argentina next and I have never been there before, so it’s a new circuit for me, and that is something that I am obviously looking forward to. I watched the race last year and it looked quite exciting and fun, and the track had a lot of character to it. Going to this circuit is a new challenge but it’s something that I am looking forward to. It was a bit of a hard weekend in Magny Cours, with a crash and a few issues that we were struggling with. I hope to rectify that and get back to fighting for that podium.”
Top independent rider Toprak Razgatlioglu (Turkish Puccetti Racing) scored his first two career wins at the previous round in France and now looks for more potential wins and podium success in South America. He is now fifth in the overall championship standings just 19 points from third place.
Jordi Torres (Team Pedercini Racing Kawasaki) sits 11th in the championship fight after the 11th round. He is just five points from tenth place with six individual races still to go in 2019.
The forthcoming weekend is a very special one for Leandro Mercado (Orelac Racing VerdNatura Kawasaki) as Villicum is his home round. Despite losing two race weekends to injury early in the year Leandro is 15th from the 28 riders who have scored points in 2019 so far.
2019 KRT Rider WorldSBK Statistics
Jonathan Rea: World Champion 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018 & 2019
2019: Races 31, Wins 12, Podiums 28, Superpoles 6
Career Race Wins: 83 (68 for Kawasaki)
Career Podiums: 162 (120 for Kawasaki)
Career Poles: 22 (18 for Kawasaki)
Leon Haslam:
2019: Races: 31, Wins 0, Podiums 6, Superpoles 0
Career Race Wins: 5 (0 for Kawasaki)
Career Podiums: 45 (7 for Kawasaki)
Career Poles: 3 (0 for Kawasaki)
7 x Riders’ Championships (Scott Russell 1993, Tom Sykes 2013, Rea 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018 & 2019), 1 x EVO Riders’ Championship (David Salom 2014)
4 x Manufacturers’ Championships (Ninja ZX-10R 2015 & 2016, Ninja ZX-10RR 2017 & 2018)
4 x Teams’ Championships (KRT/Provec Racing 2015, 2016, 2017 & 2018)
Kawasaki FIM Superbike World Championship Statistics
Total Kawasaki Race Wins: 141 – second overall
Total Kawasaki Podiums: 424 – second overall
Total Kawasaki Poles: 87 – second overall
Team Obsolete's Dave Roper (7) leads Alex McLean (122), Walt Fulton (177X), and Jack Parker (18) early in an AHRMA Vintage Cup (350 GP) race at Barber Motorsports Park in 2019. Photo by etechphoto.com, courtesy of AHRMA.
The 2019 AHRMA Vintage Cup 350 GP class, sponsored by RoadracingWorld.com and NYC Norton, had its culminating event at the 15th annual Barber Motorsports Park Vintage Festival on October 5th and 6th.
The racing was, as usual, incredibly close throughout the field. There were a lot of entries for this premier race weekend, and racing was exciting from the front to the back of the pack. Saturday’s race winner was Dave Roper, Mr. Saturday, who has, throughout the season, shown that he can pull a win off on Saturday while the others go to school on him on Sundays. We also saw some good racing for 2nd and 3rd between Alex McLean and Canadian Dean De St. Croix, who has come back to race with AHRMA after a 10-year absence—a welcome return! The podium was Roper in 1st, De St. Croix in 2nd, and McLean in 3rd.
Sunday’s racing saw McLean sit the race out, having already secured the 350 GP Vintage Cup national championship. Roper shot out with a sizeable lead at the start of the race, with De St. Croix in 2nd place and Jack Parker rounding out the top three. De St. Croix put his head down and started to chip away, and on the seventh lap was able to pass Roper, whose bike had begun breaking up toward the end of the race. Meanwhile, Parker dropped back and Jim Jowers, riding a beautifully turned out AJS 7R, put the moves on to take third. The podium saw De St. Croix in 1st, Roper in 2nd, and Jowers in 3rd place.
This has been an incredibly successful debut of the AHRMA Vintage Cup. We’re looking forward to doing it again next year, with the 500 Premier/500 GP classes as AHRMA’s Vintage Cup for 2020.
AHRMA Vintage Cup (350 GP) Race Results (Oct. 5):
David Roper (1970 H-D ERTT)
Alex McLean (1967 H-D Aermacchi Drixton), -2.829 seconds
Dean De St. Croix (1958 BSA Geoff Monty Gold Star), -5.118
Jack Parker (1968 Yam DT250), -19.883
Walt Fulton (H-D), -30.170
Jason Roberts (1968 Yam DT-1), -31.383
Jim Jowers (Seeley 7R), -31.901
Jonathan Hollingsworth (1973 H-D), -37.953
Don Hollingsworth (1973 H-D Sprint), -40.656
Jerry Duke (Duc), -41.960
Jason Lindquist (1968 Yam DT-1), -42.341
Robert Aegerter (H-D Aermacchi), -53.879
Richard Hollingsworth (1972 H-D Sprint), -1 lap
Stan Miller (1966 Suz T20), -1 lap
Tim O’Donnell (1969 Duc Mk3 350), -1 lap
Eric Watts (1972 Duc 350), -3 laps
Christian Jensen (Duc 350), 04 laps
AHRMA Vintage Cup (350 GP) Race Results (Oct. 6):
Dean De St. Croix (1958 BSA Geoff Monty Gold Star)
HAFIZH SYAHRIN RETURNS TO MOTO2 WITH ÁNGEL NIETO TEAM
Malaysian rider completes Ángel Nieto Team line-up for intermediate category in 2020
Hafizh Syahrin will return to the Moto2 World Championship in 2020 with the Ángel Nieto Team. The Malaysian rider, who has spent the last two seasons in MotoGP, moves back to the intermediate category where he made his Grand Prix debut as a wildcard in 2011. Syahrin will line up alongside Spanish rider Aron Canet, who steps up to Moto2 after fighting for the Moto3 World Championship title.
Syahrin became a full-time Grand Prix rider in 2014 and made swift progress to become a top ten championship finisher in both 2016 and 2017, scoring several podiums along the way. For the 2018 season he made the step up to MotoGP, where he has spent the past two seasons.
Jorge Martínez “Aspar”: “I would like to welcome Hafizh Syahrin to our team. It is great news for us to sign such an experienced rider to our new challenge in the Moto2 class. We are planning a big step forward in 2020, we are raising the bar and I know that both Hafizh and his future teammate Aron Canet will help us reach it. Syahrin is a rider who already has several years of experience in this category and we have confidence in his ability to achieve big things.”
Hafizh Syahrin: “I think that together with the Ángel Nieto Team we can do a good job next season. Moto2 is not a new category for me because I already spent several years there, but now I will have a different chassis, a different engine with more power and different tyres. I have raced against the majority of riders in this class and I think I can mix it up at the front. I will give my best to be a top five rider, I have faith in the team because I have worked with a few of them before, and I think we can do a good job.”
Razlan Razali (CEO of Sepang International Circuit): “We are extremely pleased to be supporting Hafizh for 2020 in the Moto2 category with Angel Nieto Team. We are confident that Hafizh can mount a serious challenge to Championship next year. Hafizh is a national icon, mentor and an inspiration to the youth of Malaysia and it is great that he will continue his efforts and a possible comeback to the MotoGP category in 2021. Hafizh is a credible and competitive rider and his presence in the world championship will ensure continued success of Asian riders.
YB Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman (Minister of Youth and Sports): “Hafizh is a talented Malaysian athlete and the Ministry fully supports his decision to continue participating in the international racing scene in the Moto2 category. His previous experience and achievement would grant him a competitive edge over his peers and this would make him a serious contender to fight for more podium places next year. I wish him well and cannot wait to hear our ‘Negaraku’ song being played in his honour all over the world.”
Leon Haslam on the World Superbike podium at Donington Park in 2019. Photo courtesy Kawasaki.
Haslam To Move On At Season End
British rider Leon Haslam will leave the official Kawasaki Racing Team at the end of the 2019 season after some strong showings in his first season back in the WorldSBK paddock after three years of successful BSB competition.
After winning the BSB Championship title in 2018 Leon was brought into the KRT WorldSBK set-up to join forces with record-breaking champion Jonathan Rea.
He had an immediate positive impact inside the overall KRT awning which culminated in winning the Suzuka 8 Hours race in partnership with Jonathan on the Ninja ZX-10RR.
Leon’s six podium scores – so far – in his comeback year prove that his 2019 adventure was another positive step along his incredible career path, spanning WorldSBK, BSB, MotoGP and EWC series, always competing strongly when he had competitive machinery.
In 2019 so far Leon has scored two podiums apiece at Phillip Island, Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli and his much loved home circuit of Donington Park in England. He also scored a wildcard podium finish on a Kawasaki in 2017, at Donington, while riding for Kawasaki Puccetti Racing team. With races in Argentina and Qatar yet to come, the 36 year old Derbyshire based rider may yet increase his 2019 tally on the KRT Ninja ZX-10RR.
In a career that has spanned over 20 years of top-level international competition, Leon has an enviable WorldSBK record, both with Kawasaki and no fewer than five other manufacturers.
All at Kawasaki and KRT wish Leon the very best of good fortune in his future career.
Guim Roda, KRT Team Manager, stated:
“KRT and KHI welcomed Leon into the team after a nine year period with Tom Sykes. It was an ideal chance for him to regain experience inside the WorldSBK paddock and an incentive after winning the British Superbike title plus previous success at the Suzuka 8-Hours.
“A primary target for 2019 was for Leon to experience the KRT way of working and to take his race rhythm and performance to a new level with goals like competing at Suzuka as a tempting prospect. Winning the 2019 8 Hours race with Jonathan Rea after a 25 year gap for Kawasaki was certainly an incredible achievement alongside regular top five placings in WorldSBK including several podium visits.
“To achieve all of this despite being away from WorldSBK for three years is testament to Leon’s skill as a rider – especially as he has endured injuries this year, many of which have not been apparent and have certainly not hindered his hunger for success. It is my hope that Leon can stay within the Kawasaki family for 2020 and use his KRT experience on factory Ninja machinery to achieve yet more success as well as competing again at the Suzuka 8-Hours. Everyone at KRT wishes Leon well for the future”.
Steve Guttridge, Kawasaki Europe Racing Manager – added:
“It is fitting that the 2018 British Superbike Champion should follow that success with a season at KRT.
“We at Kawasaki are proud of his achievements on Ninja machinery and wish him all the very best in the next phase of an incredible career”.
Maverick Viñales (12) on a Monster Energy Yamaha YZR-M1 leads Marc Marquez and his Repsol Honda RC213V in the MotoGP race at Assen earlier this season. Viñales won by 4.854 seconds with Marquez second and Fabio Quartararo (not shown) third on another Yamaha YZR-M1.
Featured in the September 2019 issue of Roadracing World:
Honda and Yamaha have dominated premier-class Grand Prix racing for the last four decades, winning 33 of the last 36 Rider World Championships and 35 of the last 36 Constructor World Championships.
Honda entered the 500cc class in 1966, contested two seasons, withdrew for a decade, returned in 1979 and has fought for the crown of kings every year since 1983. Yamaha joined the contest in the early 1970s and has never left.
So far the 500cc/MotoGP numbers look like this: Honda has 20 rider titles and 24 constructor titles since 1966. Yamaha has 17 rider titles and 14 constructor titles since 1975. Honda is undoubtedly the stronger force right now, winning six of the last eight Rider World Championships, with Casey Stoner and Marc Marquez, and eight of the last nine Constructor World Championships with the RC212V and RC213V.
Yamaha’s YZR-M1 has been mostly in the doldrums since the change to spec electronics and Michelin tires in 2016. But the Iwata factory is planning a major fightback for 2020 …
–Old Foes, New Tech/MotoGP Analysis, by Mat Oxley
In the highly restricted world of MotoGP engineering, details make the difference between the top step of the podium and bottom of the top 10. MotoGP Editor Mat Oxley looks at the details that differentiate the two heavyweights in the MotoGP ring. Get an inside look at MotoGP’s longest-standing rivalry in the September issue of Roadracing World!
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LRRS Middleweight GP Expert "Dash For Cash" podium finishers (from left): Paul Duval (5th), Alex Guilbeault (4th), Samuel Greenwood (2nd), Scott Greenwood (1st), and Rick Doucette (3rd). Photo by Martin Hanlon, courtesy of LRRS/NHMS.
LOUDON, N.H. – The 2019 Loudon Road Race Series season, which featured 174 expert riders, 134 amateur riders and 60 novice riders, closed with the completion of round seven as the riders took on the 1.6-mile road course this past weekend at New Hampshire Motor Speedway. Many competitors ended their season adding a few more achievements and milestones to their personal records.
“It was probably one of the greatest feelings I think I’ll ever feel,” said Daniel Weems reflecting on his first career expert win, which included beating veteran expert rider Scott Greenwood, in round six’s Heavyweight Supersport. “Not very many people beat old Scotty, but I got the jump on him from the start, and it was kind of like waiting for a shark attack. The halfway point came, then the white flag came and I was screaming at myself, ‘brake, apex, gas.’ I was sliding absolutely everywhere, and then I hit the checkered flag. I haven’t felt that since I won my first amateur race two years ago.”
LRRS racer Daniel Weems (368). Photo by Martin Hanlon, courtesy of LRRS/NHMS.
Abington, Mass. native Weems, who started racing with the Loudon Road Race Series in 2017 as an amateur, completed his second expert season this past weekend taking home a top five and a top 15. Now that he’s beaten Greenwood in the wet, he has shifted his focus to beating him in the dry in, what he’s hoping, the 2020 season.
Many riders improved their skills enough to jump up a class during the 2019 season, landing in a whole new starting grid as they eagerly awaited the green flag on the front stretch. More than 20 riders earned amateur level credentials after successfully exceeding the requirements of novice level riding, and a few, like 13-year-old Brianna McHugh, who was a first-time LRRS competitor this season, improved exponentially well, earning them expert status.
LRRS racer Brianna McHugh (214). Photo by Martin Hanlon, courtesy of LRRS/NHMS.
“I’m part of the Penguin Roadracing School mentor program,” said McHugh, a Rindge, N.H. native who achieved two top fives and two top tens in round seven. “Eric, John and everyone on the team really helped me out a ton, and I can’t thank them enough. I’ve made so much improvement just because of them.”
After a successful 2018 season, Milton, Vt. native Tyler Wasserbauer made the leap from amateur to expert to begin his second season with LRRS and managed to secure the 2019 expert GTO championship.
LRRS racer Tyler Wasserbauer (158). Photo by Martin Hanlon, courtesy of LRRS/NHMS.
“Cory [Hildebrand] kind of gave the GTO championship to me,” said Wasserbauer. “He’s faster than me and I have yet to beat him, but he didn’t go out in the rain, so that was the difference in the championship. The transition from a 600 to a 1,000 was a big step, and then also going from amateur to expert was a big step, so it was a lot of change at once. I’m lucky more than anything.”
A little bit of luck may have been on his side in earning the title of 2019 expert GTO champion, but nonetheless, Wasserbauer’s achievements in his first year as an expert rider landed him on the podium 17 out of a possible 28 times, proving he more than deserves a championship title. He closed out round seven with two podium finishes, a top five and a top 10.
The awards banquet honoring the 2019 champions from the Loudon Road Race Series, MOAT Mountain Road Course Series and J&J’s Yolk & Co. Oval Series is on November 16 at Foxwoods Resort Casino in Mashantucket, Conn. The Loudon Road Race Series will return to New Hampshire Motor Speedway in the spring to kick off the 2020 season.
Daytona International Speedway. Photo courtesy Daytona International Speedway.
2019 Fall Cycle Scene: Entertainment On and Off the Track at DIS
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (October 7, 2019) C Daytona International Speedway offers motorcycle enthusiasts a host of activities to enjoy during Fall Cycle Scene, Oct. 17-20, both on and off the track.
Team Hammer Riding School kicks off the on-track action on Friday before the Championship Cup Series (CCS) and American Sportbike Racing Association (ASRA) take to the 3.51-mile road course to crown their season champions on Saturday and Sunday.
The Midway, located along the speedway’s frontstretch just off of International Speedway Blvd., is open Thursday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. and Sunday, 9 a.m.-noon; it includes the area’s largest motorcycle marketplace with everything from the nation’s top motorcycle parts to Hot Leathers fashion as well as bike shows and Harley-Davidson Thunder Alley; admission is FREE. Activities in the Midway include:
・ Harley-Davidson Thunder Alley: Bikers can spend the day at Harley-Davidson Thunder Alley, located in the Midway, enjoying a cold Budweiser, live music on the main stage, contests and great food.
・ Vendors and displays: Guests can visit the area’s largest vendor and display marketplace with over 50 of the nation’s top aftermarket product vendors or get a close-up look at what the cruiser and sport bike manufacturers and custom bike builders have to offer in their display areas.
・ Yaffe’s Baddest Bagger Bike Show: The country’s biggest bike show series will take place Friday, Oct. 18, located just east of the AdventHealth injector. Registration is from 10 a.m.-noon with the awards ceremony taking place at 3 p.m. on the Harley-Davidson Thunder Alley stage. Bikes will be judged based on five classes determined by front-wheel size: Stock, up to 21-inches; Modified, up to 23-inches; Radical, up to 26-inches or wide tires up to 240mm; Pro, 30- to 32-inches; SRT (Steam Roller Touring)/Performance, a new class celebrating emerging trends in the custom bagger scene. Trophies will be awarded to the top three baggers in each class and the overall Baddest Bagger at Biketoberfest as well as for Best Paint, People’s Choice Award, Urban Rides Pick, Paul Yaffe’s Bagger Nation Award, Yaffe’s Best Attention to Detail Award, Yaffe’s Most Innovative Award and BAB-USA Pick. Winners will also be featured in Urban Rides Magazine.
・ Full Throttle Magazine Bike Show presented by GEICO will take place on Saturday, Oct. 19, located just east of the AdventHealth injector. Registration is from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. with a $20 entry fee per bike. The awards presentation will be held at 5 p.m. on the Harley-Davidson Thunder Alley Stage. Trophies will be awarded in 10 categories and a $500 cash prize will be awarded to Best in Show. The 10 categories include:
・ Hot Leathers Fashion Show: The Hot Leathers Fashion Show will take place Saturday, Oct. 19 at 1 p.m. on the Harley-Davidson Thunder Alley Stage.
Camping and motorcycle trailer parking are also available at the Speedway. RV camping in the infield’s Gecko Shores at Lake Lloyd (with hook-ups) is available for $295 and GEICO Grounds Red (without hook-ups) is $175; both include two (2) three-day adult admissions for the weekend’s racing activities; kids 12 and under are FREE. Tent camping in the GEICO Campgrounds, located inside Turns 3 and 4, is FREE with your daily or weekend admission ticket. Motorcycle trailer parking, located in GEICO Park West, just outside of Turn 1, is just $25 for the week C no camping or race ticket required. For more information, call 1-800-PITSHOP.
A three-day infield admission ticket can be purchased in advance for $50 at www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com, or by calling 1-800-PITSHOP. Tickets can also be purchased at the gate for $10 on Friday and $25 per day Saturday and Sunday; kids 12 and under are FREE. All tickets include access to the infield, UNOH Fanzone and the garage as well as FREE parking.
Fans can stay connected with Daytona International Speedway on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, YouTube and Snapchat, and by downloading Daytona International Speedway’s mobile app, for the latest Speedway news throughout the season.
KAWASAKI MOTORS CORP., U.S.A. ANNOUNCES 2020 MOTORCYCLE LINEUP INCLUDING THE NEW NINJA® 650 MOTORCYCLE
NEW 2020 Ninja® 650 motorcycle
Ride Bold
For 2020, the new Kawasaki Ninja 650 features the tried and true 650cc parallel twin cylinder power plant and new styling, as well as a high-performance chassis and a full suite of state of the art advanced rider support features. What makes the Ninja 650 one of the most well-balanced and exciting motorcycles for a daily commute or an afternoon out on some tight, winding, back roads is the strong parallel twin engine and sporty lightweight chassis, which delivers smooth and agile handling. Developed to offer the ideal blend of sporty performance and everyday versatility for a wide range of riders, the Ninja 650 keeps the good times rolling. The Ninja 650 features sharp, new styling, new LED headlights, TFT color display, smartphone connectivity via RIDEOLOGY THE APP, as well as several other new updates.
In addition, the following motorcycles are returning for 2020:
Hypersport
Ninja® H2R
Ninja® H2
Ninja® H2 Carbon
Ninja® H2 SX SE+
Supersport
Ninja® ZX™-10R ABS
Ninja® ZX™-6R
Ninja® ZX™-14R
Sport
Ninja® 400 ABS
Z Family
Z125 PRO
Z400
Z900RS ABS
Z900RS CAFE
W
W800 CAFE
Versys®
Versys®-X 300 ABS
Versys® 650 ABS
Versys® 650 LT
Versys® 1000 SE LT+
Supersport Touring
Concours®14 ABS
Cruisers
Vulcan® S ABS
Vulcan® S ABS CAFE
Vulcan® 900 Classic
Vulcan® 900 Classic LT
Vulcan® 900 Custom
Vulcan® 1700 Vaquero® ABS
Vulcan® 1700 Voyager® ABS
More, from another press release issued by Kawasaki:
2020 KAWASAKI NINJA® 650 MOTORCYCLE
Ride Bold
The left side view of a black 2020 Kawasaki Ninja 650.
Kawasaki is no stranger to the pursuit of performance, excitement, and all out fun, and nothing embodies this philosophy more than the new 2020 Ninja® 650 motorcycle. It’s one of the most well balanced motorcycles Kawasaki has produced, blending the fun and easy handling with optimal engine and chassis performance, and the legendary sleek Kawasaki Ninja® styling. For 2020, the new Kawasaki Ninja 650 features the tried and true 650cc parallel twin cylinder power plant and new styling, as well as a high-performance chassis and a full suite of state of the art advanced rider support features.
What makes the Ninja 650 one of the most well-balanced and exciting motorcycles for a daily commute or an afternoon out on some tight, winding, back roads is the strong parallel twin engine and sporty lightweight chassis, which delivers smooth and agile handling.
Developed to offer the ideal blend of sporty performance and everyday versatility for a wide range of riders, the Ninja 650 keeps the good times rolling. The Ninja 650 features sharp, new styling, new LED headlights, TFT color display, smartphone connectivity via RIDEOLOGY THE APP, as well as several other new updates.
Highlights of the 2020 NINJA 650
NEW Styling with Twin LED Headlights
NEW TFT Color Instrumentation
NEW Smartphone Connectivity via RIDEOLOGY THE APP
NEW Dunlop Sportmax Roadsport 2 Tires
NEW Upper Cowl, Windshield, and Passenger Seat
The restyled front cowl of the 2020 Kawasaki Ninja 650.
Styling
The sharp new styling of the Ninja 650 gives the motorcycle an even sportier appearance and even stronger Ninja family appearance. Its sleek and sporty design catches the attention of new and seasoned riders alike.
The new upper cowl is wider, with more sleek contours that help create the sporty appearance. Prioritizing a sportier look, the redesigned windshield is now lower and flush-fit with the upper cowl. It’s set at a more upright angle to offer the rider increased wind protection. Another new styling feature to the Ninja 650 is the addition of the twin LED headlights, each featuring low and high beam as well as a position lamp. To further enhance the image of the motorcycle fairing bolts have been replaced by hooks, which create a clean, smooth surface for a high-class appeal.
Increased passenger comfort also complements the new styling of the Ninja 650, with a thicker and wider urethane passenger seat.
The new TFT dashboard of the 2020 Kawasaki Ninja 650.
TFT Color Instrumentation
The new 4.3” all-digital TFT color instrumentation– a Kawasaki first in the 650cc class – gives the cockpit of the Ninja 650 motorcycle a high-tech, high-grade appearance. The new meter also offers additional features.
The full color display features TFT (thin-film transistor) technology, which delivers a high level of visibility. The screen’s background color is selectable (black or white), and screen brightness adjusts automatically to suit available light. Display functions include: digital speedometer, digital bar-style tachometer, gear position indicator, shift lamp, fuel gauge, odometer, dual trip meters, current and average fuel consumption, remaining range, average speed, total time, coolant temperature, clock, battery voltage, Kawasaki service reminder, oil change reminder, and Economical Riding Indicator.
Smartphone Connectivity
Another Kawasaki first for the middleweight Ninja® line of motorcycles is the addition of Smartphone Connectivity. A chip built into the instrument panel enables riders to connect to their motorcycle wirelessly. Using RIDEOLOGY THE APP, a number of instrument functions can be accessed, logged, and reviewed contributing to an enhanced motorcycling experience. The following information can be viewed:
1. Vehicle Info
Check latest status update
2. Riding Log
Can be logged in detail, and played back for review
Route, Distance & Time traveled can be logged for review
Riding conditions can be recorded in detail
3. Telephone Notifications
Provides a notification on dash when a call or mail is received by smartphone
4. Tuning
General instrument display setting changes can be made on your smartphone
The app can also be used when away from the motorcycle. When riding (with the app ON), the bike and smartphone are always connected and riding log data is being recorded by the app. After your ride, the latest riding information is stored by the app and may be viewed on the smartphone. Any changes made via the app while the engine is off, or while out of range, will be implemented as soon as the ignition is turned on and the smartphone is in range with the app ON.
The 2020 Kawasaki Ninja 650 comes wearing new Dunlop Sportmax Roadsport 2 tires.
Tires
Enhancing performance on the 2020 Ninja 650 are the new Dunlop Sportmax Roadsport 2 tires, which help to improve upon the lightweight and nimble handling of the Ninja 650.
Accessories
Kawasaki offers a full line of Kawasaki Genuine Accessories (KGA) including a larger windshield, helmet lock, TFT meter protection film, Ergo-Fit™ high seat (+30 mm), oil filler cap, tank pad, pillion seat cover, semi-soft panniers, top case, DC outlet (50 W), , U-lock, radiator screen, frame sliders, tank pad, and knee pads.
Colors
The 2020 Kawasaki Ninja 650 is available in:
Lime Green / Ebony (Kawasaki Racing Team KRT)
Metallic Spark Black
Pearl Blizzard White
MSRP
Starting at $7,399 (Non-ABS)
ABOUT KAWASAKI
Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. (KHI) started full-scale production of motorcycles over a half century ago. The first Kawasaki motorcycle engine was designed based on technical know-how garnered from the development and production of aircraft engines, and Kawasaki’s entry into the motorcycle industry was driven by the company’s constant effort to develop new technologies. Numerous new Kawasaki models introduced over the years have helped shape the market, and in the process have created enduring legends based on their unique engineering, power, design and riding pleasure. In the future, Kawasaki’s commitment to maintaining and furthering these strengths will surely give birth to new legends.
Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. (KMC) markets and distributes Kawasaki motorcycles, ATVs, side x sides, and Jet Ski® watercraft through a network of almost 1,100 independent retailers, with close to an additional 7,400 retailers specializing in general purpose engines. KMC and its affiliates employ nearly 3,100 people in the United States, with approximately 250 of them located at KMC’s Foothill Ranch, California headquarters.
Kawasaki’s tagline, “Let the good times roll.®”, is recognized worldwide. The Kawasaki brand is synonymous with powerful, stylish and category-leading vehicles. Information about Kawasaki’s complete line of powersports products and Kawasaki affiliates can be found on the Internet at www.kawasaki.com.
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Accessibility
Accessibility modes
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Accessibility Statement
www.roadracingworld.com
November 14, 2026
Compliance status
We firmly believe that the internet should be available and accessible to anyone, and are committed to providing a website that is accessible to the widest possible audience,
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This website utilizes various technologies that are meant to make it as accessible as possible at all times. We utilize an accessibility interface that allows persons with specific
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Screen-reader and keyboard navigation
Our website implements the ARIA attributes (Accessible Rich Internet Applications) technique, alongside various different behavioral changes, to ensure blind users visiting with
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alongside console screenshots of code examples:
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Disability profiles supported in our website
Epilepsy Safe Mode: this profile enables people with epilepsy to use the website safely by eliminating the risk of seizures that result from flashing or blinking animations and risky color combinations.
Visually Impaired Mode: this mode adjusts the website for the convenience of users with visual impairments such as Degrading Eyesight, Tunnel Vision, Cataract, Glaucoma, and others.
Cognitive Disability Mode: this mode provides different assistive options to help users with cognitive impairments such as Dyslexia, Autism, CVA, and others, to focus on the essential elements of the website more easily.
ADHD Friendly Mode: this mode helps users with ADHD and Neurodevelopmental disorders to read, browse, and focus on the main website elements more easily while significantly reducing distractions.
Blindness Mode: this mode configures the website to be compatible with screen-readers such as JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver, and TalkBack. A screen-reader is software for blind users that is installed on a computer and smartphone, and websites must be compatible with it.
Keyboard Navigation Profile (Motor-Impaired): this profile enables motor-impaired persons to operate the website using the keyboard Tab, Shift+Tab, and the Enter keys. Users can also use shortcuts such as “M” (menus), “H” (headings), “F” (forms), “B” (buttons), and “G” (graphics) to jump to specific elements.
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Additional functions – we provide users the option to change cursor color and size, use a printing mode, enable a virtual keyboard, and many other functions.
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We aim to support the widest array of browsers and assistive technologies as possible, so our users can choose the best fitting tools for them, with as few limitations as possible. Therefore, we have worked very hard to be able to support all major systems that comprise over 95% of the user market share including Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Apple Safari, Opera and Microsoft Edge, JAWS and NVDA (screen readers).
Notes, comments, and feedback
Despite our very best efforts to allow anybody to adjust the website to their needs. There may still be pages or sections that are not fully accessible, are in the process of becoming accessible, or are lacking an adequate technological solution to make them accessible. Still, we are continually improving our accessibility, adding, updating and improving its options and features, and developing and adopting new technologies. All this is meant to reach the optimal level of accessibility, following technological advancements. For any assistance, please reach out to
