MotoGP: Michelin Bringing Extra Tire Choices For Repaved Aragon

David Swarts

-

August 28, 2024

MotoGP: Michelin Bringing Extra Tire Choices For Repaved Aragon

Michelin has prepared for the return of MotoGP™ to the Alcañiz circuit

• MotoGP returns to the large Motorland Aragón complex for the first time since September 2022.

• The circuit has been completely resurfaced, leading Michelin and its partners to start from scratch, as the data collected so far has become obsolete.

• Michelin Motorsport brings its new MotoGP tyres to Aragón, with three rear options instead of two to better understand the characteristics of the new asphalt.

The MotoGP FIM World Championship returns to the Circuito de Alcañiz, in the heart of the large Motorland Aragon complex, for the first time since 2022. Opened in 2009, it hosted a motorcycle Grand Prix for the first time in 2010, and having become a regular venue for MotoGP, Motorland Aragón even hosted two MotoGP races in 2020 due to the pandemic that disrupted the calendar. In 2023, the 5.077 km circuit, taken in an anti-clockwise direction with 10 left turns, 7 right turns, and two straights, (the longest of which is 968 m) underwent major renovation work. All of its asphalt has been replaced, and it is now a 100% new track that the Michelin Motorsport teams and their partners will discover for the first time.

“Controlling wear and heat will be the two main challenges of the weekend,” says Piero Taramasso, Michelin’s two-wheel competition manager. “Given the expected conditions, we have chosen fairly hard rubber compounds from our new ranges, as track temperature here could reach 50°C. Two years ago the race took place on 18 September, with slightly less complex weather, and also on a track whose surface we knew very well. Given the new asphalt, the configuration of the circuit and the significant constraints that this track exerts, both for the front and rear tyres, we are now starting from scratch with new rubber. We know that a new surface generates more wear on the rear tyres, but also significant thermal variations. However, the specific characteristics will depend on the grain size of the new surface. If it is ‘open’ the ground will be very abrasive, and if it is closed (smooth), we will have to deal with rapid temperature increases. The first tests will be very important for the set-up of the bikes, and the riders will have to deal with multiple combinations, but we will be there to guide them in their choices. As always, we will bring three compounds for the front, but three, instead of the usual two, for the rear.”

For the Gran Premio GoPro de Aragón, Michelin Motorsport will provide its partners with symmetrical Soft, Medium and Hard rubber compounds for the front. At the rear, the riders will be able to choose between a Soft tyre with a rubber compound oriented towards firmness, a Medium option using the same philosophy, and a Hard tyre dedicated to high temperatures. The rear tyres will be asymmetric, with the left shoulder reinforced, to respond to the greater number of turns on this side.

In case of rain, Michelin will offer its MICHELIN Power Rain tyres in Soft and Medium compounds, for both the front and rear. The rears also being asymmetric, like their MICHELIN Power slick counterparts.

In 2022, it was Enea Bastianini (Gresini Racing) who won the Grand Prix, just 0.042 seconds ahead of Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team), with Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia racing) finishing in third.

This year, the Gran Premio GoPro de Aragón race weekend will start on Friday 30 August with Free Practice 1 from 10:45 to 11:30. Then a second session will take place from 15:00 to 16:00, allowing the 10 fastest riders to directly access the second phase of qualifying (Q2). After a final free practice session on Saturday morning from 10:10 to 10:40, Q1 will allow two additional riders to progress to Q2 in order to determine, at the end of Q2, the starting grid for the weekend. The start of the 11 lap Sprint race – the first ever in Aragon – will be on Saturday at 3:00 p.m., and the start of the 23 lap Grand Prix is scheduled for Sunday 1 September at 2:00 p.m.

About Michelin

Michelin is building a world-leading manufacturer of life-changing composites and experiences. Pioneering engineered materials for more than 130 years, Michelin is uniquely positioned to make decisive contributions to human progress and to a more sustainable world.

Drawing on its deep know-how in polymer composites, Michelin is constantly innovating to manufacture high-quality tires and components for critical applications in demanding fields as varied as mobility, construction, aeronautics, low-carbon energies, and healthcare.

The care placed in its products and deep customer knowledge inspire Michelin to offer the finest experiences. This spans from providing data- and AIbased connected solutions for professional fleets to recommending outstanding restaurants and hotels curated by the MICHELIN Guide.

MotoAmerica: Gagne Out For Remainder Of 2024, Fores Filling In

David Swarts

-

August 28, 2024

0

MotoAmerica: Gagne Out For Remainder Of 2024, Fores Filling In

Fores to Fill In for Gagne

Attack Performance Progressive Yamaha Racing’s Jake Gagne will sit out the final two rounds of the MotoAmerica Superbike season to focus on returning to full fitness

MARIETTA, Ga. – August 28, 2024 – Attack Performance Progressive Yamaha Racing’s Jake Gagne will sit out the remaining two rounds of the MotoAmerica season to focus on returning to full fitness for 2025. Filling in for the three-time defending Superbike Champion is Xavi Fores.

Although Gagne has not been feeling 100% with arm and hand issues, he made a valiant effort to defend his run of three consecutive Superbike titles. In addition to a win at the season opener at Road Atlanta, he earned a total of five podium finishes, and currently sits third in the standings, tied in points with fellow Yamaha rider Bobby Fong. Looking at the bigger picture, the decision was made by Gagne, with support from the team, to sit out the final two rounds of the season in order to focus on returning to full fitness for next season.

Fores made his debut with the team earlier this year, filling in for Cameron Petersen aboard the Attack Performance Progressive Yamaha Racing R6 at the Daytona 200. The Spaniard brings with him a wealth of experience from both World and National Superbike Championships, as well as the Endurance World Championship. He will make his Superbike debut with the team at the penultimate round on September 13-15 at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas, where he secured his Supersport title last year during his first season of MotoAmerica.

Richard Stanboli – Attack Performance Progressive Yamaha Racing Team Manager

“We are all very supportive of Jake taking the time to repair his condition. Racing while not being 100% and just hanging on for points is not great for him or the team. We wish Jake the best and look forward to having him ready and fit for winter testing.

“We welcome Xavi to fill in for Jake the last two rounds. We are confident he will do a great job representing the team on and off the track.”

Jake Gagne – Attack Performance Progressive Yamaha Racing

“It wasn’t an easy decision, but we needed to look at the bigger picture and get back to 100%. Despite my best efforts to fix it in between races, I’ve continued to deal with issues with my arm and hand. We’ll go get this sorted and come back stronger next season.”

Xavi Fores – Attack Performance Progressive Yamaha Racing

“I’m extremely happy to join the team again, this time on the Superbike. I think it’s the team that’s the benchmark. I have watched them throughout my career and hoped to race with them. It’s always a shame to fill in for a rider like Jake because he is injured. So first and foremost, I want him to get well as soon as possible.

“I’m looking forward to starting this journey with the team. It’s only two rounds, but I’m going to try and do my maximum, help improve the package and have some solid weekends. I’m so happy to return with the Attack Yamaha team in Superbike this time, and share a couple of races with all the crew, which I had a great experience with in Daytona.”

About Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA

Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA (YMUS), is a recognized leader in the outdoor recreation 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) and Robotic Machines, Unmanned Helicopters, Accessories, Apparel, Yamalube products, and much more. 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), Kracor Systems (Wisconsin) and Siren Marine, Inc. (Rhode Island), Skeeter Boats (Texas), with division G3 Boats (Missouri), and Yamaha Precision Propeller (Indiana).

MotoGP: World Championship Going Back To Brno

David Swarts

-

August 28, 2024

0

MotoGP: World Championship Going Back To Brno

MotoGP™ back at Brno from 2025 to 2029 inclusive

The classic track will welcome the return of the world’s most exciting sport from next season

Wednesday, 28 August 2024

MotoGP™ is delighted to confirm a return to the iconic Automotodrom Brno. Recognised as an all-time classic for fans and riders alike, the Czech venue will welcome the world’s most exciting sport back for the next five seasons, from 2025 to 2029 inclusive.

The city of Brno has staged more than 50 Grands Prix since first hosting MotoGP™ in 1965, establishing itself as a true destination for fans of two wheels. Events were initially held on a street circuit in the area before the Automotodrom Brno debuted on the calendar in 1987, going on to host MotoGP™ every year until 2020 barring a one-year break in 1992.

Now, 2025 begins a new chapter in a long and illustrious history of racing in Brno as the Czech GP returns to the MotoGP™ calendar until 2029 inclusive.

Petr Fiala, Prime Minister of the Czech Republic: “Motorcycle racing has a tradition at the Brno Masaryk Circuit dating back to the 1950s. MotoGP is a prestigious global event that brings tens of thousands of visitors to the Czech Republic, particularly to South Moravia, many of whom come from abroad. I am very pleased that we have managed to continue this tradition and that the MotoGP race will return to Brno after five years.”

Jan Šťovíček, President of Czech Republic Autoklub: “I always trusted MotoGP will return to Brno. All these years I was asked many times by riders, team officials, Dorna and FIM people what is happening there and when we will be back, because everybody loves Brno. This was made possible with the change of circuit owner, as the new owner decided to invest in development of this iconic facility. Big thanks to the Czech Government and Prime Minister Mr. Fiala, South Moravian Region and Governor Mr. Grolich, City of Brno and its Mayor Mrs. Vaňková, and the event partner Creditas Group!”

Karel Hubáček, Chairman of the Board, Automotodrom Brno: “I am pleased with the successful conclusion of negotiations, which is the result of the constructive approach of all parties involved. I would like to thank the Autoclub of the Czech Republic and Dorna Sports for their genuine support of the idea of bringing the Masaryk Circuit back onto the map of the most prestigious motorcycle championship. At the same time, I greatly appreciate the favorable stance taken by the government, the South Moravian Region, and the City of Brno. At this moment, we are fully focused on the next key phases of preparation to ensure that fans will have an exceptional experience.”

Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of MotoGP™ rights holder Dorna Sports: “We’re delighted to be able to announce our return to Brno. It’s a classic, with a fantastic layout that has staged some really memorable moments in its long history in MotoGP. We’re really excited to return and stage more, with the Tissot Sprint every weekend and even more for fans to enjoy on site to get closer to their heroes than ever. We’ve seen the hillsides here packed with passion for our sport so many times – when it was the best-attended Grand Prix of the year on a number of occasions – and we’re very happy to bring MotoGP back to our fans in Czechia.”

AMA Road Race Grand Championship Is Oct. 18-20 At Daytona

David Swarts

-

August 28, 2024

0

AMA Road Race Grand Championship Is Oct. 18-20 At Daytona

The 2024 AMA Road Race Grand Championship Set for Oct. 18-20

Event to run at the iconic Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla.

PICKERINGTON, Ohio — The AMA Road Race Grand Championship will return to the historic Daytona International Speedway on Oct. 18-20, running alongside the famed Biketoberfest event.

“As is the case every year, the 2024 AMA Road Race Grand Championship is sure to be an excellent event filled with fierce competition for AMA National No. 1 Plates,” AMA Track Racing Manager Ken Saillant said. “You cannot find a better venue than Daytona International Speedway, and we’re looking forward to another outstanding weekend of racing.”

Sanctioned by the AMA and operated by the America Superbike Racing Association, the AMA Road Race Grand Championship will include three days of high-speed racing action on the asphalt in Daytona Beach, with a number of AMA No. 1 plates and special awards ripe for the taking.

“ASRA is once again excited to host the AMA Road Race Grand Championship at the extraordinary Daytona International Speedway,” said ASRA Partner Alex Spellman. “Once again we will crown the Road Race National Champions.”

In addition to the national championships up for grabs, several riders will race their way to prestigious AMA special awards. Chief among them is the Nicky Hayden AMA Road Race Horizon Award, which is earned by the racer that shows the necessary ability and demeanor to excel at the professional level. The AMA Amateur Road Racer of the Year and AMA Road Race Vet/Senior awards will also be presented during the event.

For more information on the AMA Road Race Grand Championship, visit AmericanMotorcyclist.com/racing/track-racing/road-racing/ and asraracing.com/ .

Running alongside the AMA Road Race Grand Championship, Biketoberfest is a rider’s paradise with hundreds of vendors, motorcycle shows and scenic rides throughout Daytona Beach’s iconic landscape. For more information on Biketoberfest, head over to daytonabeach.com/biketoberfest/ .

About the American Motorcyclist Association

Founded in 1924, the AMA is a not-for-profit member-based association whose mission is to promote the motorcycle lifestyle and protect the future of motorcycling. As the world’s largest motorcycling rights and event sanctioning organization, the AMA advocates for riders’ interests at all levels of government and sanctions thousands of competition and recreational events every year. Besides offering members money-saving discounts on products and services, the AMA also publishes American Motorcyclist, a recently revitalized and monthly full-color magazine (and digital version of same) that covers current events and motorcycle history with brilliant photography and compelling writing. American Motorcyclist is also North America’s largest-circulation magazine. Through the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio, the AMA honors the heroes and heritage of motorcycling. For more information, visit AmericanMotorcyclist.com.

MotoGP: Aldeguer Replacing Marc Marquez At Gresini Racing

David Swarts

-

August 28, 2024

0

MotoGP: Aldeguer Replacing Marc Marquez At Gresini Racing

HIS FUTURE IS LIGHT BLUE: FERMIN ALDEGUER WITH GRESINI RACING MOTOGP

Fermin Aldeguer is the new standard bearer of Team Gresini Racing MotoGP for the next two seasons, with the Faenza-based team also extending their partnership with Ducati for 2026.

The partnership between Gresini Racing and Ducati Corse is tighter than ever, with the recent seasons that brought Bastianini and Marc Márquez to the official team, and Fabio Di Giannantonio scoring his maiden MotoGP win aboard a Desmosedici GP machine. It is now time for Fermín Aldeguer, who has been among the protagonists in the last two Moto2 season, to shine with the squad lead by Nadia Padovani, alongside Alex Márquez, who has already been confirmed for 2025 and 2026.

The (blue) eyes are now set on November 19th for the first official test…

(From left) Luigi "Gigi" Dall'Igna, Ducati Corse General Manager; Fermin Aldeguer; and Nadia Padovani, Gresini Racing Team Owner. Photo courtesy Gresini Racing. — (From left) Luigi “Gigi” Dall’Igna, Ducati Corse General Manager; Fermin Aldeguer; and Nadia Padovani, Gresini Racing Team Owner. Photo courtesy Gresini Racing.

THE GRESINI-DUCATI PARTNERSHIP EXTENDED TO 2026

FERMIN ALDEGUER – GRESINI RACING MOTOGP RIDER

“I’m extremely happy to be joining the Gresini family; this is an incredible opportunity to make my MotoGP debut with the best bike on the grid and with a fantastic team that has had plenty of iconic riders. I hope to get to grips quickly with the GP24: we’ll need to approach it step by step, but I cannot wait for the first test of the new season in Valencia. I’d like to thank Nadia and Gigi for their trust, which will be repaid.”

NADIA PADOVANI GRESINI – TEAM OWNER GRESINI RACING

“Family spirit is the concept our team is based upon, and it applies to our whole world championship history. It’s a great pleasure for us to welcome one of the most promising young talents in the series and our goal will be to protect him and help him make his way to the type of results that distinguish us. He’ll be with us for the next two seasons and Ducati will also stay in our garage until at least 2026. We’ll doubly happy, so welcome to the team Fermín!”

LUIGI DALL’IGNA – DUCATI CORSE GENERAL MANAGER

“We’re very happy to extend our partnership with the Gresini family until 2026. The team led by Nadia Padovani has managed to achieve great goals in recent years while showing all its strength and professionalism. Team Gresini Racing also brought several riders – some of them very young – to winning ways. This is why we’re sure that this is the ideal squad to welcome Fermín Aldeguer and to accompany him in his MotoGP debut season. I’d like to thank once again Nadia and the whole Gresini family. Looking forward to more exciting times together!”

Riding The 2024 Yamaha MT-09 SP: A Sharper Hypernaked

Michael Gougis

-

August 28, 2024

0

Riding The 2024 Yamaha MT-09 SP: A Sharper Hypernaked

I could tell which state I was in on Highway 129 with my eyes closed. The Tennessee side of the Tail of the Dragon is smoother and better maintained than most racetrack surfaces. The North Carolina side is no worse than most mountain roads, but it’s certainly no better, and the frost heaves, cracks, and potholes stand out in stark contrast to the satin-like finish of the Tennessee side of the Tail.

Both surfaces test suspension. The Tennessee side invites harder riding, with the rider able to apply more force at the bars and on the brake lever, to flick more quickly, to brake harder, more comfortable in looking for grip and speed. In North Carolina, the rider is looking for stability over pavement irregularities as well as a chassis that can keep both tires consistently in contact with the road.

Yamaha used the Tail to introduce its 2024 MT-09 SP. The new bike is all about suspension, even though its upgraded brakes are a genuine improvement. New KYB forks offer more adjustments and better action throughout the stroke, and an Öhlins shock provides more control at the rear wheel. The better suspension allows the rider to use the brakes with more confidence and precision. And after 161.2 miles of riding, a journey almost exclusively on two-lane mountain roads ranging from moderate to high speeds, it was clear that the upgrades allow the rider to get even more performance and enjoyment out of what is a very good standard model.

The base for the SP is the new-for-2024 MT-09. It is the latest in the line of the hypernaked, unfaired and upright sportbikes Yamaha introduced in 2014. The MT-09 is powered by the company’s smooth and responsive 890cc CP3 inline three-cylinder engine, which puts out a claimed 117.3 bhp at 10,000 rpm. Modern electronic rider aids are included, and Yamaha’s up- and down-quickshifter capabilities are expanded for 2024. The riding position features lower bars that are closer to the rider, and even on the standard model, the suspension has been upgraded.

The SP takes those upgrades several steps further. The SP versions’ KYB forks are adjustable for high- and low-speed compression damping as well as rebound and preload. The sliders feature a diamond-like coating for less stiction. The Öhlins shock is made specifically for the SP and features a remote preload adjuster. And a set of Brembo Stylema calipers are mated to a Brembo master cylinder at the front.

Yamaha engineers added adjustable engine braking to the SP model, as well as the ability to disable the rear wheel ABS. And they added Track Mode to the dash, so the rider can customize the electronics to their preference, trigger a lap timer, and eliminate data that isn’t particularly useful on a racetrack.

The Yamaha MT-09 SP retails for $12,299. Photo courtesy Yamaha.

The SP represents a significant improvement in real-world sport riding. The forks track bumps better, especially mid-corner, and stabilize the entire platform. That allowed me to trail-brake into corners with more confidence, using more of the performance of the Brembo caliper/master cylinder combination at the front. The Öhlins similarly kept the rear more stable, especially at corner exits, allowing me to drive out with more throttle. Incidentally, the most aggressive engine map – Setting 1 – on this machine is quite nicely dialed in. The response at the throttle is direct and – enthusiastic, let’s say – and it wasn’t an on/off light switch. I felt fully in control, even in the tightest switchbacks.

The rest of the MT-09 is just as much fun as I remembered. The engine has a definite powerband, with manageable torque at the bottom and a rush on top. The riding position is comfortable, the seat wide and supportive, and the increased intake noise is music to a gearhead’s ears.

The SP model lists for $12,229, or $1,700 more than the standard model. The standard MT-09 already represents a solid bargain for its level of performance. The SP version delivers an amazing amount of performance at a price that reflects real value. It’s hard to go wrong with either one, but when the pace picks up, the SP’s upgrades are worth every penny.

MotoAmerica: Junior Cup Champion Chapin Racing In Twins Cup At COTA

David Swarts

-

August 27, 2024

0

MotoAmerica: Junior Cup Champion Chapin Racing In Twins Cup At COTA

MotoAmerica Junior Cup Champion Matthew Chapin Racing In Twins Cup At COTA

Newly crowned MotoAmerica Junior Cup Champion Matthew Chapin will compete on a BARTCON Racing Suzuki GSX-8R powered by Team Hammer in the two Twins Cup races at Circuit of The Americas September 15-16. Team Hammer built the bike and will provide technical support to BARTCON Racing.

Chapin sealed the 2024 Junior Cup Championship one round early, by winning both races at Mid-Ohio on August 17-18. The 16-year-old will return to Junior Cup for the MotoAmerica season finale at his home track, New Jersey Motorsports Park, on September 28-29.

Mathew Chapin poses with his Junior Cup #1 plate at Mid-Ohio. Photo by Brian J. Nelson/courtesy BARTCON Racing. — Matthew Chapin poses with his Junior Cup #1 plate at Mid-Ohio. Photo by Brian J. Nelson/courtesy BARTCON Racing.

BARTCON Racing team owner Colin Barton initially planned to concentrate on his NYC construction business in 2024 but decided to continue to run his race team after rider Eli Block took back-to-back Junior Cup wins at the final event of the 2023 MotoAmerica season. Barton then decided to add young Junior Cup racer Matthew Chapin after consulting with BARTCON Racing Crew Chief Mike Skowronek and after meeting Matthew and his father Phil, who is a former road racer.

Barton said, “Mike with no hesitation informed me that not only was Matty a talented rider but also came from good stock in the sense of his upbringing, personal character, and basic discipline which is very important to both me and Mike. The kicker was that Matty was already racing a Kawasaki Ninja 400 fielded by Mike’s company, TripleStrong Racing.

“I fully intended to minimize my involvement at the track for the season, so after meeting for the first time collectively at the Daytona 200, we formatted a scenario that the team was basically handed off to Eli’s father Eric, Matty’s father Phil, and of course Mike Skowronek who like myself always has his hands full running his performance shop TripleStrong Racing out of Bath, Pennsylvania.

“The 2024 season started at Road Atlanta where Matty won the first race and Eli took third in the second race. Matty then won both races at Road America with Eli second in the first race. At Brainerd, Matty won the first race and finished second in the second race. The penultimate round was at Mid-Ohio and all we wanted Matty to do to was get points and stay in the championship hunt for the finale at New Jersey. But it appears everyone forgot to tell the kid, who checked out and won the first race with Eli finishing third. Matty then won the second race, clinching the MotoAmerica Junior Cup National Championship!

Matthew Chapin (left) on the podium at Road Atlanta with teammate Eli Block (right). Photo courtesy BARTCON Racing. — Matthew Chapin (left) on the podium at Road Atlanta with teammate Eli Block (right). Photo by Phil Chapin/courtesy BARTCON Racing.

“So it gives me great pleasure to announce that BARTCON Racing will be fielding a Suzuki GSX-8R powered by Team Hammer for the final two Twins Cup races at COTA, where we are confident that Matthew will put on a good show for all our fans and supporters. And I am grateful to Team Hammer and Chris and John Ulrich who listened to my proposal and agreed to work with me on this project. Over the years they’ve been instrumental in advancing many up-and-coming young riders and I am happy that they agreed to help me give Matty this great opportunity to display more of his natural talent.”

Told about the plan for him to race at COTA, Matthew said, “I am beyond excited for this opportunity to race the Team Hammer-built GSX-8R at COTA and I can’t thank Colin, John, and Chris enough for making it happen so close to the next round. I raced at COTA two years ago when I competed in the North America Talent Cup and I am really looking forward to riding there again as the track is amazing. It’s going to be fun!”

MotoAmerica: Benjamin Smith Racing Superbike-Spec Yamaha At COTA

David Swarts

-

August 27, 2024

0

MotoAmerica: Benjamin Smith Racing Superbike-Spec Yamaha At COTA

Flo4Law Racing’s Benjamin Smith To Debut Full-Spec Yamaha YZF-R1 Superbike At Circuit of The Americas

Flo4Law Racing, which fields team principal Bobby Davies, along with teammate Benjamin Smith, in Stock 1000 and Superbike Cup, is upping its game for the team’s home race at Circuit of The Americas.

While Davies will race his Stock 1000-spec Yamaha YZF-R1 in Superbike Cup, Smith will make his Steel Commander Superbike debut at COTA on a full Superbike-spec Yamaha R1 built by Freddy Carswell and his crew at Superbike Unlimited.

A long-time technical partner with Westby Racing, Carswell has been anxious to get back into Superbike, and Flo4Law Racing came up with an opportunity that suits Carswell, Flo4Law’s founder Florencio “Flo” Moreno, and Smith.

Smith will run his usual number 78 at COTA, and the Yamaha’s livery will feature Flo4Law Racing graphics with a touch of Superbike Unlimited branding to signify the collaboration between Flo4Law and SBU. Photo courtesy of Superbike Unlimited.
Also, Smith had an opportunity to test the bike at Barber Motorsports Park, with Carswell and crew in attendance. Everyone at the test was encouraged by how well Smith performed, and also how well the bike suited Smith.

“We’re incredibly excited to commence this relationship with Ben Smith and Flo4Law Racing,” Carswell said. After Westby Racing’s unexpected departure, I felt a profound loss and a strong sense of ‘unfinished business’. Since then, we’ve been not so quietly tooling up a Yamaha race program at Superbike Unlimited with the blessing of Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA (YMUS) and with technical support from Yamaha Motor Europe N.V. (YME), but we hadn’t addressed a few key components; a rider and a partner with an equal passion and drive for success in this sport.

“I feel we’ve found a great match in Ben and Flo, and I’m looking forward to the synergy our team will bring to the paddock.

“I’d like to extend special thanks to YMUS, YME, Steve Korol of Evol Technology, Chuck Giacchetto of Giaccmoto Racing, and Richard Stanboli of Attack Performance for helping SBU get this thing going and also encouraging the process. We’re thrilled to arrive as Flo4Law Superbike Unlimited in Austin!”

Flo commented, “Ben Smith deserves to be on a Superbike, and we’re honored to be in a position to make that happen. We look forward to learning and growing with this opportunity, and we would like to thank Superbike Unlimited for their trust in our team. Much like how we run our Texas-based law firm, Flo4Law Racing wouldn’t throw our hat in the ring with the big teams if we didn’t think we were in a position to compete. Stay tuned, we’re just getting started.”

Smith added, “For the past 10 years of my professional career, the ultimate goal has been to be given a shot on a true Superbike. After an incredible first season with my Flo4Law Racing team thus far, I am more than honored and grateful to be granted this opportunity. We were able to complete a very positive test on the bike about a month ago, and I think it will bode well for us coming into COTA.

“This will be my first weekend on a Superbike of this caliber, and I can’t thank Freddy at SBU enough for entrusting me to showcase their machine. I have been working hard to make the most of the opportunity I have in front of me, so the goal will be to put on a show for the home Flo4Law crowd with a solid three races. I can’t wait for everyone to see this thing on track. We’ll see you all in Texas!.”

Smith and Davies will compete in three Steel Commander Superbike races at COTA, with one of the races scheduled for Saturday, and the other two races on Sunday.

American Flat Track: Springfield Mile Doubleheader Is This Weekend

David Swarts

-

August 27, 2024

0

American Flat Track: Springfield Mile Doubleheader Is This Weekend

Three-Way Grand National Championship Battle Races into Springfield Mile Doubleheader

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (August 27, 2024) – An unexpectedly tight Grand National Championship battle arrives at the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield, Illinois for the Springfield Mile I & II presented by Drag Specialties on August 31-September 1, the penultimate weekend of the 2024 Progressive American Flat Track season, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing.

Reigning Mission AFT SuperTwins champion Jared Mees (No. 1 Rogers Racing/SDI Racing/Indian Motorcycle FTR750) entered the preceding Arrowhead Brass Sturgis TT eying a realistic pathway to clinching an unprecedented tenth Grand National Championship this weekend at the iconic event he co-promotes with his wife, Nichole. However, an incident that took place while Mees was attempting to charge his way up through the field resulted in a disqualification in Sturgis along with a significantly closer points chase.

Mees now leads second-ranked Brandon Robinson (No. 44 Mission Roof Systems Indian FTR750) by just six points and third-placed Briar Bauman (No. 3 Rick Ware Racing/KTM/Parts Plus KTM 790 Duke) by just 12.

Further complicating Mees’ march to history is the fact that both Robinson and Bauman have stood atop the podium at Springfield – Robinson in doubleheader fashion on August 31 and September 1 of 2013 and Bauman the last time the Mission AFT SuperTwins lined up at the venue less than a year ago.

However, the champ is far from defenseless in his mission to retain the #1 plate. One of the sport’s all-time great milers, Mees has repeatedly proven himself up to the task when under pressure, as evidenced by his record-tying nine championships, and at Springfield specifically, where he boasts an incredible eight victories.

Of course, Mees, Robinson, and Bauman won’t be on track alone. Several potential spoilers could play an outsized role in swaying the championship standings one way or the other at a track that lends itself to incredibly close and unpredictable racing. Ten of the most recent twelve Springfield Miles have been decided by under a second. And of those twelve, half have seen three riders finish within a second of victory, four with four riders in contention, two with seven or more, and one that featured ten riders crossing the stripe at the checkered flag separated by less than a second.

During that span, Davis Fisher (No. 67 Rackley Racing/Bob Lanphere’s BMC Racing Indian FTR750) and Bronson Bauman (No. 37 Fastrack Racing Mission Foods KTM 790 Duke) have finished on the podium and within a second of victory at Springfield, while Brandon Price (No. 92 Memphis Shades/Sody Ent/OTBR Yamaha MT-07) and Jarod Vanderkooi (No. 20 JMC Motorsports/Fairway Ford Ohio Indian FTR750) have finished within a second of the win.

Meanwhile, rookies Trevor Brunner (No. 21 Mission Foods/Zanotti Racing Indian FTR750), Declan Bender (No. 70 GOMR/BriggsAuto.com/Martin Trucking Indian FTR750), and Max Whale (No. 18 Latus Motors Racing/Liqui Moly Harley-Davidson XG750R) are primed to join that list as they return to Springfield armed with the experience of engaging in last year’s huge pack war for victory aboard 450s.

Parts Unlimited AFT Singles presented by KICKER

By scoring his sixth win of the ‘24 season, Kody Kopp (No. 1 Rick Ware Racing/Parts Plus KTM 450 SX-F) has put himself in strong position to clinch the Parts Unlimited AFT Singles presented by KICKER title early for the third year in succession.

To do so, he need only end the weekend with 25 points in hand (perhaps 26 depending on how tiebreakers continue to shake out). At the moment, his advantage stands at 34 points over Chase Saathoff (No. 88 JPG Motorsports Honda CRF450R) and 40 over Tom Drane (No. 59 Estenson Racing Yamaha YZ450F).

While the margin separating first from second and third in the championship chase is considerable, that doesn’t reflect the recent reality on track, where Kopp, Saathoff, and Drane have taken two wins apiece over the last six races.

Expect that same sort of competitiveness to continue at Springfield with the likes of Trent Lowe (No. 48 American Honda/Mission Foods CRF450R), James Ott (No. 19 1st Impressions Race Team Husqvarna FC450), Tarren Santero (No. 75 Vinson Construction/P&M Motorcycles Honda CRF450R), Evan Renshaw (No. 265 American Honda/Mission Foods CRF450R), Tyler Raggio (No. 55 Raggio Racing/Sluggo Racing KTM 450 SX-F), and Jared Lowe (No. 63 BigR/Little Debbie Racing Honda CRF450R) liable to turn this into a ten-rider barnburner for the top step on the podium.

There will also be plenty of off-track activities for fans to enjoy throughout the weekend, including the CAT Command Trailer, numerous vendors, expansive food and beverage options, and dedicated motorcycle parking.

All tickets are $10 off if purchased prior to Wednesday. If you act fast, Infield Standing Room Only tickets remain just $20 (kids 12 and under $5), Reserved Grandstand tickets are $35, and Premium Reserved Grandstand are $45.

Fans also have the opportunity to enjoy a VIP Experience by selecting a special ticket option that provides access to a premier reserved seat in front of the start/finish line and includes food, beverage, and a Pit Pass for $150.

Pit Pass Upgrades are also available for purchase for non-VIP tickets, which provide all-day access to the pits where fans can scope out the world’s fastest dirt track motorcycles and get up close and personal with the stars of the sport.

Fans who purchase Saturday and Sunday tickets will receive a $5 discount at checkout. To reserve your tickets today, visit:

Mission Springfield Mile I & II: https://www.tixr.com/groups/meespromotions/events/springfield-i-and-ii-89223

Mission Springfield Mile I: https://www.tixr.com/groups/meespromotions/events/springfield-mile-i-89224

Mission Springfield Mile II: https://www.tixr.com/groups/meespromotions/events/springfield-mile-ii-89225

Gates will open for fans at 10:00 a.m. ET (7:00 a.m. PT) both days, with Opening Ceremonies set to begin at 2:30 p.m. ET (11:30 a.m. PT) on Saturday and Sunday. You can catch the livestream of all the weekend’s racing activities on FloRacing. Motorsports fans can subscribe to FloRacing to enjoy over 1,000 live motorsports events in 2024. FloSports is available by visiting https://flosports.link/aft or by downloading the FloSports app on iOS, Android, Apple TV, Roku, Amazon Fire and Chromecast.

FOX Sports coverage of the Springfield Mile I & II presented by Drag Specialties, featuring in-depth features and thrilling onboard cameras, will premiere on FS1 on Sunday, September 8. The Springfield Mile I will air at 7:00 a.m. ET (4:00 a.m. PT) with the Springfield Mile II scheduled for 11:00 a.m. ET (8:00 a.m. PT).

For more information on Progressive AFT visit https://www.americanflattrack.com.

Canadian Superbike: Young Poised To Win Fourth Crown

David Swarts

-

August 27, 2024

0

Canadian Superbike: Young Poised To Win Fourth Crown

Superbike Preview: Young looks to wrap up fourth title in season finale at Shannonville

Hamilton, ON – Ben Young will enter the final round of the Bridgestone Canadian Superbike Championship with one hand already on the Canada Cup, as the season concludes this weekend at Shannonville Motorsport Park, August 30-September 1.

It’s a return to the same venue where Young kickstarted his title campaign nearly four months ago with a pair of victories on the perimeter “Pro Track” layout, but now he will take to the interior “Long Track” layout to try and close out the season the same way he started it and secure a fourth career GP Bikes Pro Superbike championship.

The math is simple for Young, as he needs to just score four points out of the 54 remaining this weekend to exit with a third consecutive Canada Cup and retain his #1 plate for the Van Dolder’s Home Team BMW squad.

Young has taken nothing for granted, remaining adamant that “anything can happen,” and that is true – after all, he is no stranger to bizarre mechanical issues at Shannonville – but it would still take a near perfect weekend from Sam Guerin to try and leapfrog Young as he trails by 50 points.

What makes the odds even slimmer for Guerin is that Young showed zero signs of vulnerability on the Long Track layout last season, winning two of three races and overcoming a last-round deficit to Alex Dumas to win his third title.

Guerin was hardly as convincing in that 2023 finale, taking finishes of fourth, fifth, and fifth to close out the season. However, the EFC Group BMW star has been an entirely different rider in 2024, making it difficult to judge just how much those results will translate to his current form.

Already locked into a top-three spot, Guerin will have nothing to lose as he tries to erase his deficit to Young at the finale and complete one of the most improbable comebacks in history, but he won’t have a shortage of other contenders trying to get in his way.

Sam Guerin (2) sits in a solid second place in the championship standings and is the only rider with a mathematical chance of robbing Ben Young of a third-straight CSBK title as the series heads to Shannonville for the final round of the season. Photo by Rob O'Brien, courtesy CSBK. — Sam Guerin (2) sits in a solid second place in the championship standings and is the only rider with a mathematical chance of robbing Ben Young of a third-straight CSBK title as the series heads to Shannonville for the final round of the season. Photo by Rob O’Brien, courtesy CSBK.

The main favourite on race day may actually be Dumas, who is the most recent winner on the “Long Track” layout after ending the 2023 campaign on top.

The 2021 champion looked very strong all weekend a year ago, earning pole position and leading early in race one before crashing out, then leading majority of race two and winning race three.

That was also Dumas’ final weekend for Suzuki, and it’s entirely possible his new Economy Lube Ducati will suit the layout even better after Trevor Dion took it to three consecutive podiums on the Long Track last season.

The most recent winner in the feature class is also expected to return to Shannonville, as Trevor Daley makes his third appearance of the season aboard the OneSpeed Suzuki.

The circuit hasn’t been one of Daley’s strongest throughout his career, taking just one podium all the way back in 2014, though the same could have been said for Grand Bend and CTMP prior to his stunning victories.

It’s also difficult to critique Daley’s Long Track results from a year ago, where he overcame brutal injuries to finish fifth, sixth, and sixth. Now healthy, it’s entirely possible he could add a third “Daley Double” to his resumé at Shannonville.

Experience is at a premium on the 15-turn version though, having returned in 2023 after being absent from the calendar since 2004, and that lack of familiarity will play right into the hands of Jordan Szoke.

Szoke admittedly hasn’t raced the Long Track layout as much as other tracks in his career, but he will have more laps to draw from than most of the grid combined, evidenced by his podium charge in race one last season despite being at a worse stage in his recovery than he is now.

The CKM Kawasaki rider has not finished outside the top-four at all this year and should be a strong bet to at least continue that streak to end the campaign, looking much more like his old self in the second half of this season.

Another rider chasing a dream victory is Tomas Casas, who returned to the podium for a third time in his Superbike career last time out at CTMP. The Yamaha Motors Canada rider made his season debut after missing the first four rounds and didn’t miss a beat, finishing fifth and third after leading the opening lap of race two.

Casas looked very strong in practice and qualifying a year ago at the finale before a Q2 crash and injury ended his season prematurely. Now having regained his health and a bit of confidence from his CTMP effort, the two-time Sport Bike champion will be eyeing another podium – or maiden victory – at SMP.

Kawasaki rider Connor Campbell (814) leads the Brooklin Cycle Racing Pro Rookie of the Year battle with two races remaining in the 2024 season. Photo by Rob O'Brien, courtesy CSBK. — Kawasaki rider Connor Campbell (814) leads the Brooklin Cycle Racing Pro Rookie of the Year battle with two races remaining in the 2024 season. Photo by Rob O’Brien, courtesy CSBK.

A pair of young Kawasaki riders will be vying for a bit of hardware to end the season, as Torin Collins will return for a third appearance and try to hunt down Connor Campbell in the Brooklin Cycle Racing Pro Rookie of the Year fight.

Campbell has led the award standings for majority of the season, finishing inside the top-ten in each of the first eight races for the B&T MacFarlane/Kubota Kawasaki team and scoring points on every occasion.

It’s been a bit of an opposite story for Collins, who missed rounds one, two, and four but has benefitted from his victory and podium in Edmonton to find himself just eight points behind Campbell entering the final round.

The difference may come down to familiarity, as Collins will be making his first ever trip to Shannonville while Campbell made his Superbike debut on this layout last season, hopping aboard the ZX-10R Ninja on short notice to take two top-eight finishes.

Collins will also be under a new tent for the third time in three appearances, remaining aboard the same Kawasaki from his CTMP appearance but departing the CKM program to ride for Economy Lube alongside Dumas.

More information can be found on the series’ official website.

MotoGP: Michelin Bringing Extra Tire Choices For Repaved Aragon

August 28, 2024

Michelin is bringing three rear tire compound choices instead of the normal two to deal with the unknown of the new racing surface at MotorLand Aragon. Photo courtesy Michelin.