Collin Veijer to take on 2025 Moto2™ challenge with Red Bull KTM Ajo
2024 MotoGP news
Exciting Moto3™ hotshot Collin Veijer has earned a slot with the prolific Red Bull KTM Ajo team for 2025 Moto2 and the next phase in the 19-year old’s career journey.
The Dutchman is currently 4th in the 2024 Moto3 world championship and is negotiating only his second Grand Prix campaign. Veijer has made just 29 starts and has already grasped two victories and has appeared on the podium seven times since making his debut at the beginning of 2023.
Tall in stature and praised for his quick adaption to Grand Prix, his mature approach and natural attacking style; Veijer is one of the brightest prospects to emerge from The Netherlands this century and will step into the intermediate category next year to continue his rapid trajectory and his path in the KTM Academy.
Before coming to Moto3, Veijer fought for the 2022 Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup title and also captured wins and trophies in FIM JuniorGP. He has raced in Italy and uses Spain as a training base during the racing season. Collin will accompany Deniz Öncü as part of Aki Ajo’s decorated Moto2 rider roster. The squad have won three Moto2 titles with three different riders in 2021, 2022 and 2023 and helped four racers make the step to the MotoGP™ premier class in that time frame.
Collin Veijer: “I am super-happy to have signed with Aki and the Red Bull KTM Ajo team in Moto2. KTM is present in all GP classes and this is a great move for my career. It is such a renowned team and past results speak for themselves. For sure it won’t be easy coming from Moto3 but I will prepare myself well. 2025 is the right moment to make the step, also physically the Moto2 bike will suit me better. At the same time, I realise that we are still only half way through the current season and I will continue to keep my maximum focus to reach the best possible Moto3 championship result this year. “
Aki Ako, Red Bull KTM Ajo Team Principal: “I’m very happy to have Collin on board, as we have followed him for many years. He has shown great progress and professionalism and has already made his first steps in the program by taking part in the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup. During his two seasons in Moto3 he has shown that he is a rider with a bright future ahead of him on the world stage. What I also respect is his focus and his sacrifice, as his life is dedicated to reaching his targets at the highest level. It is a pleasure to continue with the KTM Academy’s work and to keep pushing to get the maximum potential out of the riders.”
Honda Celebrates 40 Years of Production in North Carolina with Investment in ATV Production and Plans to Build Electrified Products
August 13, 2024 — SWEPSONVILLE, N.C.
Honda announces plans for global production of electric powersports and power equipment products in North Carolina
Honda completes transition of ATV production to North Carolina with $21.5 million investment in weld and paint operations to Swepsonville plant
Honda North Carolina Manufacturing now the exclusive home for Honda ATV production in North America
Honda North Carolina Manufacturing (NCM) today celebrated 40 years of production* in the Tar Heel State with a ribbon cutting for new weld and paint operations for all-terrain vehicles (ATV). These improvements are part of a $21.5 million investment that will complete the establishment of NCM as the exclusive manufacturing facility for Honda ATVs in North America. Honda also announced that NCM would become the first Honda production facility in the North American region to manufacture future electrified Honda powersports and power equipment products.
*Honda products are made using domestic and globally sourced parts.
On Monday, August 12, Honda North Carolina Manufacturing (NCM) associates gathered for a 40-year milestone photo at the Swepsonville plant to commemorate NCM’s 40 years of production in the Tar Heel State. Photo courtesy American Honda.
Kazuhiro Takizawa, president & CEO, and Bob Nelson, executive vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc., joined NCM associates and invited guests in a ceremony to officially open the new weld and paint operations at the Swepsonville facility. This now completes the transfer of ATV production from Honda South Carolina Manufacturing (SCM) in Timmonsville, S.C., to NCM. SCM will be focused exclusively on production of Honda side-by-side vehicles. Last year, SCM expanded production of Honda side-by-side models and celebrated 25 years of production in Timmonsville.
“Our decision to make North Carolina the home for Honda ATVs today and our electrified powersports and power equipment products of tomorrow is based on the 40-year commitment of Honda associates in the Tar Heel State to build quality Honda products for our customers,” said Mark Kohls, vice president of Honda Powersports and Products, American Honda Motor Co., Inc.
Over the past four decades, NCM associates have continually evolved their production capabilities to build a variety of Honda products and meet customer needs, starting with lawnmowers in 1984, followed by snow blowers, string trimmers, mini-tillers, water pumps, generators, and general-purpose engines. In 2023, NCM added ATVs to its production lineup, effectively launching a new powersports era at the longtime power equipment facility. Current NCM ATV production includes the popular Honda FourTrax series and TRX sport models.
“For more than 40 years, Honda associates in North Carolina have produced high-quality power equipment products to meet the needs of our customers,” said Lynne Hedrick, site lead at Honda North Carolina Manufacturing. “With complete ATV production capabilities now operational, we’re excited about the future of Honda powersports manufacturing in Swepsonville.”
NCM began power equipment production in North Carolina on August 6, 1984 as the third Honda manufacturing plant in America, producing walk behind lawnmowers. In 1993, Honda established a new research and development center in an adjacent facility dedicated to power equipment products.
NCM, a nearly 650,000-square-foot facility, represents a current capital investment of $416.5 million. In 40 years, NCM has built more than 50 million products.
Celebrating with NCM Associates and the Local Community
As part of NCM’s ongoing community support, Honda and the Honda USA Foundation have contributed over $1.15 million this year to local North Carolina programs and organizations. This includes the company’s support of several education and environmental programs for The Foundation for North Carolina A&T State University, as well as the Honda USA Foundation’s support of Triangle Bikeworks’ Youth Biking for Environment Sustainability program. During the anniversary week, Honda associates will help the local community by hosting an onsite snack pack and school kit packing event to benefit the Salvation Army.
KTM RAISES THE BAR TO NEW HEIGHTS WITH THE ENHANCED 2025 KTM 450 SMR
Unveiling the 2025 KTM 450 SMR: a benchmark in the world of supermoto, designed for those who crave adrenaline and precision on the track. Combining cutting-edge technology with KTM’s race-proven engineering, the enhanced 2025 KTM 450 SMR offers unrivaled performance, agility, and power.
Using the recently updated 2025 KTM 450 SX-F as its base, the 2025 KTM 450 SMR raises the bar even higher, with key enhancements to the frame, fork, and ergonomics.
With its championship-winning 450 cc SOHC powerplant already a highlight, the 2025 KTM 450 SMR benefits from a slew of updates as found on the newly updated 2025 KTM SX-F range. The biggest and most significant of these can be found on the frame, with visible cutouts and tube-wall thickness changes around the front end, with the engine and rear shock mountings also undergoing the knife.
The right side of a 2025 KTM 450 SMR at rest. Photo courtesy KTM.
Besides a 300 g weight-saving, these structural changes have been engineered to improve chassis flex characteristics and cornering behavior while maintaining overall stability. On the latter point, smaller footrests for 2025 maximize lean angles and reduce the risk of hooking up on curbs.
The 2025 KTM 450 SMR also receives an adjustable 48 mm WP XACT Closed Cartridge spring fork for the first time. This features a new mid-valve piston concept that optimizes oil flow within the cartridge and avoids unwanted oil foaming, maintaining damping characteristics. A new hydro stop in the last part of the stroke helps to keep a maximum of reserves in extreme scenarios, like bigger jumps or hard landings.
The left side of a 2025 KTM 450 SMR at rest. Photo courtesy KTM.
At the rear, a WP XACT rear shock benefits from an updated linkage with renewed seals and smaller diameter linkage bolts. The setup is taken directly from the KTM Factory Racing Team and has been thoroughly tested on both dirt and tarmac.
Ergonomically, the 2025 KTM 450 SMR benefits from new tank shrouds with bi-composite plastics on the upper and lower flanks. This not only provides a distinctive new look but also aids in cooling by channeling air more effectively.
With regard to air intake, an updated 1-piece inlet sleeve and snorkel design feature prevents any deformation, thanks to a more robust and stiffer construction, while an updated fuel tank mount protects the frame against wear and improves tank fitment.
Above the surface, full-orange bodywork, featuring red and black in-mold graphics, and a more durable black seat bring a cleaner look while communicating the 2025 KTM 450 SMR’s pure READY TO RACE intentions.
As with previous generations, the 2025 KTM 450 SMR is fitted with race-ready Metzeler Racetec SM K1 Supermoto tires wrapped around lightweight 16.5” front and 17” rear ALPINA rims.
A 2025 KTM 450 SMR, equipped with spiked tires, undergoing testing on the ice in Sweden. Photo courtesy KTM.
The 2025 KTM 450 SMR has been rigorously tested to ensure it can perform under the most extreme conditions. Supermoto World Championship rider, Lukas Höllbacher, put the machine through its paces in a variety of challenging environments, from scorching 105-degree heat on Spanish asphalt to sub-zero temperatures on ice in Sweden. These grueling test simulations ensure that the 2025 KTM 450 SMR can deliver top performance regardless of the conditions.
With its sights set on maintaining the top spot in the Supermoto category, the new 2025 KTM 450 SMR will be launching off the Mattighofen production line and available at your nearest Authorized KTM dealer from this November onward. To discover more about the 2025 KTM 450 SMR, visit KTM.com.
Herrin Leads Close Title Chase As Superbike Racing Returns To Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course
Ten Years Later And MotoAmerica’s Steel Commander Superbike Series Headlines A Return to Mid-Ohio
IRVINE, CA (August 13, 2024) – The last time the AMA Superbike Championship raced at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, a baby-faced, 24-year-old named Josh Herrin was struggling his way through a miserable Moto2 World Championship campaign and wishing he was at Mid-Ohio. That was 2014. This is now. And Herrin arrives at Mid-Ohio as the leader of the 2024 MotoAmerica Steel Commander Superbike Championship in the series’ return to the Buckeye State after a 10-year hiatus.
Everyone is champing at the bit to get back to racing in the Permco MotoAmerica Superbikes at Mid-Ohio event after a nearly one-month summer break since round six at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. The time is now for championship wannabes to step up as the series reaches its boiling point with rounds at Circuit of The Americas and New Jersey Motorsports Park hot on the heels of the much-anticipated seventh round at Mid-Ohio.
Herrin, the 2013 AMA Superbike Champion, is atop the standings but this championship is far from over as he has several rivals nipping at his heels. There are 46 points separating the top five in the point standings with three rounds and seven races left to run in the fight for the title.
With three wins and four additional podium finishes, Herrin and his Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati Panigale V4 R lead the Steel Commander Superbike Championship by 15 points over Attack Performance Progressive Yamaha Racing’s Jake Gagne with the three-time and defending champion somehow managing to contend for the title despite near-season-long arm-pump issues.
Gagne has just a single race win but he has scored points in each and every round, including four additional podium finishes to go with his lone victory.
Just eight points behind Gagne and 23 behind Herrin is Wrench Motorcycles’ Bobby Fong. The 2019 MotoAmerica Supersport Champion’s double win at Brainerd International Raceway put him atop the standings heading into the Ridge Motorsports Park round. It was there, however, that Fong faltered in race one when he chose to use slicks when he needed rain tires, and that miscue was followed by a crash in race one at Laguna Seca. Still, the Californian is having his best Superbike season yet and is still very much in the hunt for the 2024 title.
Gagne’s teammate Cameron Petersen is also in the midst of his finest Superbike season as he sits fourth and just four points behind Fong with three victories. The South African’s scorecard, however, has been marred by a crash in race three at Barber Motorsports Park, and mechanical failures at both Road America and Laguna Seca.
Fifth in the championship is Tytlers Cycle Racing’s Cameron Beaubier, the winningest Superbike rider thus far in 2023. Five-time MotoAmerica Superbike Champion Beaubier is 46 points behind Herrin after not scoring points in five races. The Californian won three of the first five races before suffering an injury that kept him on the sidelines for three races. Beaubier got back to his winning ways at Laguna Seca with a victory and a close second to Herrin in race two.
Herrin’s Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati teammate Loris Baz and EasyHealthPlans.com/TopPro Racing’s Sean Dylan Kelly are separated by six points with Baz sixth and Kelly seventh. Kelly is coming off a solid weekend at Laguna Seca where he finished fourth in race one and battled for victory before getting a close third (behind Herrin and Beaubier) in race two. Baz, however, was disappointed with his two sixth-place finishes at Laguna, a track he calls one of his favorites.
Beaubier’s teammate JD Beach sits eighth in the championship and arrives in Ohio hot off his two victories in the American Flat Track (AFT) races in South Dakota – the Black Hills Half-Mile and the Sturgis TT.
Vision Wheel M4 ECSTAR Suzuki’s Brandon Paasch and his fill-in teammate Xavi Forés are ninth and 10th in the title chase, respectively, but Forés will be handing the team’s Suzuki GSX-R1000R back to team regular Richie Escalante, who was injured in the opening round at Road Atlanta and will make his return to racing at Mid-Ohio.
Team Brazil’s Danilo Lewis sits 12th overall and leads the MotoAmerica Superbike Cup Championship over Jones Honda’s Ashton Yates.
The two Superbike races will get the green light at 3:10 p.m. (Eastern) on both Saturday and Sunday.
Pre-Race Mid-Ohio Notes…
Australian Mat Mladin has more AMA Superbike wins at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course than any other racer. Mladin won 10 Superbike Nationals on the 2.4-mile road course with his first victory coming in 2001 and his last coming in 2008. Mladin leads Josh Hayes in Superbike wins at the iconic track, 10-7.
The very first AMA Superbike race was held at Mid-Ohio in 1983 with motocrosser-turned-road racer Steve Wise taking the win in the circuit’s debut.
Twenty-three riders who competed at Mid-Ohio in 2014 are slated to return and race at the legendary road course again in 2024: Corey Alexander, David Anthony, JD Beach, Cameron Beaubier, Chris Fillmore, Max Flinders, Bobby Fong, Jake Gagne, Josh Gallusser, Hayden Gillim, CJ LaRoche, Jake Lewis, Stefano Mesa, Brian Mullins, Tyler O’Hara, Larry Pegram, James Rispoli, Hayden Schultz, Carl Soltisz, Cory West, Cody Wyman, Kyle Wyman, and Travis Wyman.
Cameron Beaubier and Josh Hayes split wins in the last two AMA Superbike races at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in 2014. Among active racers, Beaubier (2014) and Josh Herrin (2013) are the only two who have won a Superbike race at Mid-Ohio.
Suzuki holds the record for most victories at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course with 20, followed by Yamaha (11), Honda (10) and Kawasaki (5). Yamaha, however, has dominated since 2012, winning all six Superbike races through 2014, when the series last came to Mid-Ohio.
The Superbike lap record for Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course dates way back to 2008 when Ben Spies lapped the iconic 2.4 road course in 1:23.639 at an average speed of 103.301 mph. Spies will be on hand this weekend at Mid-Ohio as he’s the team principal for the Rahal Ducati Moto squad.
Cameron Beaubier’s race-one victory at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca a month ago was the five-time MotoAmerica Superbike Champion’s 63rd AMA Superbike win, a mark that puts him second to Australian Mat Mladin on the all-time AMA Superbike win list.
About MotoAmerica
MotoAmerica is North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series. Established in 2014, MotoAmerica is home to the AMA Superbike Championship as well as additional classes including Supersport, Stock 1000, Twins Cup, Junior Cup, and King Of The Baggers. MotoAmerica is an affiliate of KRAVE Group LLC, a partnership including three-time 500cc World Champion, two-time AMA Superbike Champion, and AMA Hall of Famer Wayne Rainey; ex-racer and former manager of Team Roberts Chuck Aksland; motorsports marketing executive Terry Karges; and businessman Richard Varner. For more information, please visit www.MotoAmerica.com and follow MotoAmerica on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and YouTube. To watch all things MotoAmerica, subscribe to MotoAmerica’s live streaming and video on demand service, MotoAmerica Live+
More, from a press release issued by Ducati:
Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati heads to the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course with Josh Herrin leading the title
Sunnyvale, Calif., August 14, 2024 — The famed Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, located just out of Lexington, Ohio, is back on the MotoAmerica championship calendar for the first time in a decade, with everyone chasing Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati’s Josh Herrin over the August 16-18 weekend.
Following on from one of his finest MotoAmerica rides in race two at Laguna Seca in which he withstood mountains of pressure to take the win and 2024 Steel Commander MotoAmerica Superbike Championship points lead, Herrin knows everyone will be eyeing him as the season gets down to the business end with just three rounds and seven races remaining.
Herrin is no stranger to Mid-Ohio and is one of only two riders on the current Superbike grid to have raced and won at the venue, where AMA Superbike Championship action was last seen back in 2014.
However, Herrin knows he and the entire MotoAmerica Superbike field will essentially be starting from scratch with zero previous race data and just two Friday practice sessions to get up to speed before the grid-defining Qualifying 2 session scheduled for 10:20 am EDT on Saturday morning.
Loris Baz comes to Mid-Ohio for the first time in his MotoAmerica Superbike career this weekend on his factory-backed Ducati Panigale V4 R. The French ace, recharged after returning to Europe during the summer break, is feeling at one with the Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati following a productive test at New Jersey Motorsports Park and is ready to bring the action around the picturesque 2.25-mile Mid-Ohio venue.
Loris Baz (Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati–#76)
“It’s such an iconic place—it’s great MotoAmerica has Mid-Ohio back on the calendar,” Baz said. “The Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati team and I had a test recently in New Jersey, which got me a little more comfortable on the bike, so I am really looking forward to the last part of the season. I have also been back to my full training regime, so I’m fitter than I have been all season. It’s going to be a great weekend, and I know we’ll be able to show our true potential.”
Josh Herrin (Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati–#2)
“Mid-Ohio is one of the great circuits in North America and belongs on the calendar,” Herrin enthused. “I am beyond excited to listen to my V4 R scream around this track! The Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati team and I have clawed our way back from a huge deficit to take over the championship lead, and we now have a great opportunity to win Ducati’s first American Superbike Championship in 30 years. Now, it’s down to business. It’s time to get it!”
The crucial seventh round of the 2024 Steel Commander MotoAmerica Superbike Championship sees on-track action commencing at 9:00 a.m. EDT. Baz and Herrin are scheduled to appear on track for Free Practice 1 at 11:20 a.m. EDT.
Race One will commence at 3:10 p.m. EDT on Saturday, August 17, and Race Two is scheduled for 3:10 p.m. EDT on Sunday, August 18, 2024.
MotoAmerica: Hart Racing to Sponsor Ryan Wolfe for the remainder of the Junior Cup Season
Hart Racing and Mechanicsville, MD racer Ryan Wolfe have partnered together for the final two rounds of the MotoAmerica Junior Cup series.
Ryan Wolfe, age 19, started the 2024 season strong with two second-place finishes at Road Atlanta. He hopes to make the most of these final two rounds and potentially close the points gap to the top three riders in the championship.
“I’m super thankful to be where I am right now,” says Wolfe. “I’ve never had an opportunity to represent a title sponsor this way. Hart Racing has always been in my corner since I first started racing in 2019. They have been so helpful, and I’m excited to finish out this Junior Cup season with their support.”
“Having Ryan on our team has been a blessing! He brings so much joy to the team, and we are blessed to be able to support him in his endeavors for the remainder of the season,” said Philip Hart, Team Owner of Hart Racing.
Ryan first joined the MotoAmerica grid in 2023 racing a Suzuki SV650 in the Twins Cup class. His best finish was seventh place at New Jersey Motorsports Park against tough competition. Stepping down to Junior Cup for 2024 where all bikes are power-limited, Wolfe has faced even more competition, but on equal machinery.
“Being on a bike with pretty much the same power as the whole grid has made me more confident in my racing,” says Wolfe.
Wolfe has also secured additional support from Spears Racing, Ktech Suspension, Dunlop Tire, Bauce Racing, OneX USA, KYT helmets, and Forma boots for this 2024 season.
Round five of the MotoAmerica Junior Cup championship returns to Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course for the first time in 10 years August 17th-18th.
Three points, two showdowns: the Red Bull Ring beckons as the title fight tightens up
The gap at the top is now the lowest it’s been after a GP since the season opener, and the rider chasing that duel arrives from a weekend masterclass. Welcome to Austria!
Monday, 12 August 2024
After racing it out for 37 points in the season opener in Qatar, the gap at the top of the MotoGP™ World Championship was two points. Having raced, battled, slipstreamed, duelled, attacked, defended and sweated for 333 more since, that gap has only increased by a single one. It’s Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing) back in the driving seat on the road to the Red Bull Ring, Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) on the chase, and a new name in third after a stunning Silverstone double: Enea Bastianini (Ducati Lenovo Team). And this is one of Ducati’s most oft-conquered venues on the calendar. Are you ready?
The winner the last two seasons here – including doing the double last year – is Bagnaia. He’ll be feeling confident enough of attacking that three-point margin with a record like that. But Martin also has good memories here, scene of his first MotoGP™ win, and won’t go down without a fight. Meanwhile Bastianini, having been somewhat left out of a few narratives so far in 2024, put in a masterclass at Silverstone to put his name into the hat. 49 points used to be a lot, but it’s less when 37 points are on offer every weekend. It seems even less of a deficit considering it’s exactly the number Bagnaia pulled back on Martin between Catalunya and summer break…
Meanwhile Marc Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) had a solid weekend at Silverstone. Despite a crash on Saturday – just like Bagnaia – Sunday was a good haul of points. But he’ll need to find something more to challenge for the podium again in Austria… and luckily enough he’s a veteran of final corner showdowns for the win at the venue. This time though, he’d rather win one. This is one of the few venues where he’s never done that.
Fabio Di Giannantonio (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team) is impressing once again, however, and was closer to Marc Marquez by the flag at Silverstone than Marquez was to Bagnaia. He also pulled out a full Moto3™-style seat slap to tell Alex Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) to follow him – confidence clearly high. He’ll be looking to make an impression again in Austria on the back of his new contract too, and Alex Marquez will be looking to turn the tables. Marco Bezzecchi (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team) likewise, and he arrives from a solid British GP despite an incident at the start of the Tissot Sprint that saw him skittled by Franco Morbidelli (Prima Pramac Racing). Bezzecchi was also on the podium in Spielberg last year.
However good the record for Ducati in Austria though, there is another factory that has taken to the top step – twice. KTM arrive on a tougher run as it stands but will be looking to start rebuilding their form in front of a partisan crowd, who will also have rookie superstar Pedro Acosta (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3) to cheer on for the first time in MotoGP™. Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) is now trailing the rookie through no fault of his own after some bad luck at Silverstone so will want to change that in Austria, whereas teammate Jack Miller took solid points and will want more. For Augusto Fernandez (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3), meanwhile, the rumour mill has now started to swirl regarding a test role for next year with another factory, but with nothing confirmed. One thing that is confirmed for Austria, however, is a wildcard for Red Bull KTM test rider Pol Espargaro, so his machinery will be of interest as the factory look to push back towards the front.
At Aprilia, more may have been expected for Silverstone, but there was a Sprint podium for Aleix Espargaro and from pole position too. Maverick Viñales had a tougher one, however, and both will be aiming higher in Austria. It could be a tougher venue, however, with the Noale factory not yet having finished better than sixth – a result taken one apiece by both riders in the last two years. They’re the only factory missing a podium at the venue, but in the world’s most exciting sport that’s not an indictment of the then, it’s an opportunity in the now. Test rider Lorenzo Savadori will also be out to add more data with a wildcard.
For Trackhouse, meanwhile, bouncing back is almost guaranteed after a tough end to Silverstone as Miguel Oliveira and Raul Fernandez crashed out together early on. As the centre of the rumour mill too, it was a spotlight Sunday and one they’ll be hoping to start reshaping with more points Austria – now both on 2024 RS-GPs too.
For Yamaha, Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™) continues to bank some points but they’ll want more. He has Yamaha’s best MotoGP™ result here, taken in 2022, and it will be interesting to see how their machine now takes on the less flowing, more stop go venue. We await news on teammate Alex Rins in the meantime after the Spaniard withdrew from Silverstone.
Honda will also be an interesting watch. After a first point in Germany following a visible step forward for Luca Marini (Repsol Honda Team), it seemed the Italian had more from Silverstone until a tyre pressure penalty. Still, the positives were clear. Johann Zarco (CASTROL Honda LCR) led the charge, however, and took 14th, with teammate Takaaki Nakagami (IDEMITSU Honda LCR) then promoted to that P15. Joan Mir (Repsol Honda Team) was forced to retire from the race at Silverstone with an issue, so fresh from a new contract he’ll be hoping more is possible in Austria – one of his very much favoured venues. The squad will also be joined by Stefan Bradl wildcarding with HRC Test Team to gather even more data.
Three points cover the duel at the top, Bastianini has chance to double down on his momentum, and Marquez is looking to stem the tide. The same can be said of KTM as the orange corner faces down Ducati on hallowed ground. Eight years ago the Italian factory put that winning cherry on top of their comeback with victory in Austria, and now an armada of riders will pit out with proven, world-reigning machinery. Back then, KTM were only just beginning their journey in MotoGP™. But they’ll want to start building their fight back to the very front this very weekend – so make sure to join us for the Motorrad Grand Prix von Österreich!
SHOWTIME
Saturday
Tissot Sprint: 15:00 (UTC +2)
Sunday
Grand Prix: 14:00 (UTC +2)
Moto2™: Garcia remains ahead as the field arrive into the Red Bull Ring
Winning your home Grand Prix is something only a privileged few can say and on Sunday at the British GP, Jake Dixon (CFMOTO Inde Aspar Team) etched his name into Silverstone folklore as we were treated to a stunning fight for the win between the #96 and Aron Canet (Fantic Racing). Now, the Red Bull Ring beckons, with both riders hunting more success at a circuit that presents quite the opposing challenge to Silverstone’s fast and flowing DNA.
It remains Sergio Garcia’s (MT Helmets – MSI) in the hot seat in the Championship, but Dixon’s first victory of the season – his third overall – saw the Briton climb to P7 in the standings, with Canet now in P8 as the duo stand on 78 points apiece. The title might be out of reach, but hitting form at the start of the second half of 2024 could see both penetrate the top five – or better – come Valencia. For Dixon, three podiums in the last five are somewhat making up for the nightmare start to the campaign.
Dixon and Canet were in a league of their own at Silverstone, but plenty of other storylines were on offer. Celestino Vietti’s first rostrum in Red Bull KTM Ajo colours couldn’t have come at a better time ahead of the Pierer Mobility Group’s home race in Austria – and it’s the scene of the Italian’s last Moto2™ win too. Meanwhile, in the Championship chase, the pendulum swung back in Garcia’s favour.
An incredibly classy comeback from as low as P26 on the first lap saw Garcia pocket a crucial P4, as his main title rivals faltered. Ai Ogura (MT Helmets – MSI) – a P3 finisher at the Ring in 2023 – went from pole to P14, Fermin Aldeguer (GT Trevisan SpeedUp) had a very quiet weekend and picked up a P12, while Joe Roberts (OnlyFans American Racing) crashed out of P3. That means Garcia now leads Ogura by 18 points ahead of Round 11, with Roberts and Aldeguer 37 and 48 points back respectively. Responses needed for the hunters in Austria…
Moto3™: can Ortola strike again in Spielberg?
Another Moto3™ classic was rolled out at Silverstone and for the second time in three races, Ivan Ortola (MT Helmets – MSI) emerged as the victor. Pole position to Sunday P1 signalled a perfect weekend at the office for the Spaniard in Great Britain, with the #48 clipping five important points out of David Alonso’s (CFMOTO Valresa Aspar Team) Championship advantage.
But it was just the five as the Colombian finished a close P2 to limit the damage done. Interestingly, that’s Alonso’s first non-victory podium of the year and it keeps the #80 53 points clear at the summit. It’s now seven podiums in 10 races for Alonso as he continues his supreme 2024 march.
Collin Veijer (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP) claimed his fifth podium of the year with a P3 at the British GP, with Daniel Holgado’s (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3) P4 seeing the top four in the overall standings pick up the first four positions at Silverstone. Three of the four – Alonso, Veijer and Holgado – race Pierer Mobility Group machinery, so they’ll be hungry to impress further at the Red Bull Ring. For Ortola, Holgado and Veijer, points need to be taken off Alonso as soon as possible if they’re to retain hope of reeling in the Aspar star…
The wildcard makes it a clean sweep despite the field closing in for Race 2
Monday, 12 August 2024
The 2024 R&G British Talent Cup’s sixth round was a Thruxton thriller with a dominant Race 1 victory from wildcard Marco Morelli (Fibre Tec Honda – MLav Racing).
The race began with Amanuel Brinton (Kovara Projects / RS Racing) on pole, coming into the round just 25 points behind championship leader Lucas Brown (SENCAT Talent Team / Mortimer Racing). However, it was wildcard entry Marco Morelli who quickly made his presence felt, moving up the field and challenging for the lead by breaking free from the pack by the end of the first lap, leaving Ryan Frost Frost (Fibre Tec Honda – MLav Racing), who had taken the holeshot at the start, without response.
A lead pack then formed, comprising familiar faces with Julian Correa (Microlise Cresswell Racing), Brinton, Brown, Ryan and Filip Surowiak (Honda – Team City Lifting/RS Racing) trading places and all vying for the lead and pulling over two seconds clear of the rest by the fifth lap.
Towards the end of lap 11, disaster struck for championship contender Brinton who made a misjudgement, clipped Lucas Brown, and ran off onto the grass, eventually crashing out. The incident allowed Frost and Correa to escape and finish second and third respectively.
The main news of the day, however, was wildcard Marco Morelli’s 11.785 second victory, coming from the European Talent Cup to show the British Talent Cup the level they’re aiming for as they all make progress on the Road to MotoGP™.
Wildcard entrant Marco Morelli (95) won both BTC races at Thruxton. Photo courtesy BTC.
The R&G British Talent Cup is streamed live on YouTube in 2024! Watch Race 1 HERE and Race 2 HERE.
The start of a British Talent Cup race at Thruxton Circuit. Photo courtesy BTC.
They made some of that progress in Race 2, with the Argentinian impressing to secure his second victory of the weekend – but this time with a much smaller lead.
The battle for the remaining podium positions was fiercely contested with Surowiak putting in a strong performance to claim second place. Correa rounded out the podium, closely trailing Surowiak with a gap of just 0.074 seconds.
Brown, the championship leader, managed to secure a fourth-place finish. It was challenging weekend for the SENCAT Talent Team / Mortimer Racing rider, who couldn’t match the pace of the leading trio but he was able to capitalise on the Race 1 mistake by his closest championship rival, Brinton, who rebounded to finish in fifth place in Race 2, as Brown carries his dominant lead into Round 7, 38 points clear.
The riders now head into a summer break, a chance to catch a breath and maybe even a rare British sunny day, before returning to action at Oulton Park on September 15th.
Roadracing World MotoGP Editor and Isle of Man TT winner Mat Oxley and two-time World Championship-winning Crew Chief Peter Bom have started “The Oxley Bom MotoGP Podcast,” which will be focused on the FIM MotoGP World Championship.
The original podcast can be found on BuzzSprout.com or listened to via other places you get podcasts.
From the Oxley Bom Podcast:
Want to be a famous MotoGP racer? Then you’d better start young, move to southern Europe and make a name for yourself. And one of the best places to do that is in Red Bull Rookie Cup.
This week, we invite former racer and journalist Peter Clifford for a chat. For the last 18 years, he’s been responsible for guiding and helping the young talent in the Rookie Cup. He’s worked with people like Acosta and Binder when they were just teenagers, and knows exactly what goes into developing young talent into legendary riders.
What’s the selection process like? How do you make sure that talent from all over the world gets a fair shot? And what does he think about the future of MotoGP, as someone who works with the next generation of riders on a daily basis?
Want more? Visit our website or support us on Patreon. With big thanks as always to Brad Baloo from The Next Men and Gentleman’s Dub Club for writing our theme song. Check out The Nextmen for more great music!
Progressive American Flat Track (AFT) Championship Series
Sturgis TT
Sturgis, South Dakota
August 11, 2024
Provisional Parts Unlimited AFT Singles Main Event (6 Minutes + 2 Laps) Results (all on Dunlop tires):
1. Kody Kopp (KTM), 16 laps
2. Tarren Santero (Hon), -1.956 seconds
3. Tom Drane (Yam), -2.050
4. Chase Saathoff (Hon), -3.905
5. Bronson Pearce (Hon), -6.461
6. Chad Cose (Hus), -6.924
7. Justin Anselmi (Yam), -11.272
8. Evan Renshaw (Hon), -12.603
9. Olin Kissler (KTM), -14.184
10. Jared Lowe (Hon), -19.238
11. Trent Lowe (Hon), -19.380
12. Hunter Bauer (Yam), -21.938
13. Travis Petton (KTM), -1 lap
14. Tyler Raggio (KTM), -1 lap, -14.570
15. Ryan Hiatt (Hon), -2 laps
16. Ian Wolfe (Hon), -4 laps
Provisional AFT AdventureTrackers Main Event (6 Minutes + 2 Laps) Results (all on Dunlop tires):
1. Sammy Halbert (Tri), 15 laps
2. Ivan Cervantes (Tri), -4.809 seconds
3. Danny Eslick (Har), -6.291
4. Robby McLendon (Tri), -12.162
5. Kole King (Tri), -12.989
6. Frankie Garcia (Har), -20.922
7. Dan Bromley (Hon), -1 lap
8. Ernie Vigil (Tri), -1 lap, -7.186
9. Nick Brocha (Tri), -2 laps
Provisional Mission AFT SuperTwins Main Event (8 Minutes + 2 Laps) Results (all on Dunlop tires):
1. JD Beach (Yam), 19 laps
2. Briar Bauman (KTM), -1.715 seconds
3. Jarod VanDerKooi (Ind), -2.268
4. Davis Fisher (Ind), -7.106
5. Jared Mees (Ind), -9.693
6. Sammy Halbert (Yam), -10.641
7. Max Whale (Har), -13.667
8. Trevor Brunner (KTM), -18.083
9. Dalton Gauthier (Roy), -18.219
10. Brandon Robinson (Ind), -19.220
11. Brandon Price (Yam), -21.856
12. Dan Bromley (Yam), -1 lap
13. Kole King (KTM), -1 lap
14. Cameron Smith (KTM), -2 laps
15. Logan Mcgrane (Kaw), -2 laps
16. Jimmy McAllister (KTM), -3 laps
17. Daniel Poole (Kaw), -10 laps
More, from a press release issued by American Flat Track (AFT):
Beach Does the Dakota Double, AFT AdventureTrackers Put on a Show in Arrowhead Brass Sturgis TT Debut
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (August 11, 2024) – Neither pavement, dirt, rain, nor restart could prevent JD Beach (No. 95 Estenson Racing Yamaha MT-07 DT) from putting on yet another exhibition of all-around motorcycle mastery in Sunday’s Arrowhead Brass Sturgis TT presented by Rick Ware Racing & The CAT Rental Store, Round 13 of the 2024 Progressive American Flat Track season, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing.
While inclement weather pushed the planned proceedings back several hours, the event proved every bit the spectacle that was promised once the world’s elite dirt trackers finally locked handlebars on the unique hybrid racetrack laid out in the Streets of Downtown Sturgis, South Dakota.
And while the combination of pavement turns, dirt jumps and switchbacks put the talents of even the greatest Mission AFT SuperTwins riders to the test, world-class dirt tracker/road racer Beach looked to be in his natural environment.
Beach powered into the lead from pole and immediately threatened to sap all tension right from the race’s opening lap. However, despite Beach’s best efforts, reigning Grand National Champion Jared Mees (No. 1 Rogers Racing/SDI Racing/Indian Motorcycle FTR750) managed to inject the Main Event with an abundance of drama soon after.
The nine-time series king sank down the order at the light due to a poor launch, getting clipped and nearly taken out by Sammy Halbert (No. 69 OnlyFans/Martin Trucking Yamaha MT-07) as he was swallowed up by the pack. Trapped down in eighth early, Mees threw in a hard overtake on Brandon Price (No. 92 Memphis Shades/Sody Ent/OTBR Yamaha MT-07) entering the dirt section. That attempt resulted in contact, which knocked his opponent over and brought a stop to the race.
But the red flag only temporarily delayed Beach’s escape to victory. Peoria TT winner Briar Bauman (No. 3 Rick Ware Racing/KTM/Parts Plus KTM 790 Duke) got away well in second following the restart and hounded Beach for a time, but in time, the Estenson Racing substitute rider systemically eked away, one and two tenths per circulation, before finally working his way to a 1.715-second margin of victory.
The triumph was Beach’s second in the week, backing up his Tuesday night win at the Black Hills Half-Mile. It also increased his career TT wins total to nine, equal to Steve Eklund for third all-time and now training only Henry Wiles and Chris Carr. It also saw him set the new standard for wins at the most different TT courses at six.
“It’s been a great three rounds, but this round was amazing,” Beach said. “I’ve got to give it up to the whole fansbase. All of the fans were going crazy all day long, and so many people stuck it out despite all the rain. I think this race was awesome. And I’ve got to thank the Estenson Racing Monster team for letting me come out and do these three rounds to fill in for Dallas (Daniels). I’m bummed he’s not here because I know he would have given me a run for my money too, but it’s been a real good three races.”
Bauman, meanwhile, held on for second; this despite the late-race charge of Jarod Vanderkooi (No. 20 JMC Motorsports/Fairway Ford Ohio Indian FTR750), who finally earned his first podium of the ‘24 season by finishing third after several near misses along the way.
Davis Fisher (No. 67 Rackley Racing/Bob Lanphere’s BMC Racing Indian FTR750) limped his way to fourth after injuring his foot in the Mission #2Fast#Tasty Challenge, colliding with the wall while harrying Beach for the win.
And for all the excitement, Jared Mees (No. 1 Rogers Racing/SDI Racing/Indian Motorcycle FTR750) completed what must be considered a successful evening in fifth, as that result pulled him further clear of second-ranked (and tenth-placed) Brandon Robinson (No. 44 Mission Roof Systems Indian FTR750) in the title chase.
Meanwhile, Sammy Halbert (No. 69 OnlyFans/Martin Trucking Yamaha MT-07), Max Whale (No. 18 Latus Motors Racing/Liqui Moly Harley-Davidson XG750R), Trevor Brunner (No. 21 Mission Foods/Zanotti Racing Indian FTR750) and Dalton Gauthier (No. 79 Moto Anatomy X Powered by Royal Enfield 650) sandwiched between the championship leaders in sixth through ninth, respectively.
Mees’ advantage now sits at a healthy 22 points (251-229) with three rounds remaining, with Bauman closing in on second at 224.
Parts Unlimited AFT Singles presented by KICKER
Kody Kopp (No. 1 Rick Ware Racing/Parts Plus KTM 450 SX-F) did his part in ensuring the historic nature of the Arrowhead Brass Sturgis TT. The double defending class champion earned his first career TT victory at the event, which upped his record-setting tally of wins to 21, completed his quest for a Singles Grand Slam, and moved that much closer to an unprecedented third Parts Unlimited AFT Singles crown.
Kopp figured to be in for a serious fight when rival (and experienced roadracer) Tom Drane (No. 59 Estenson Racing Yamaha YZ450F) grabbed the holeshot. But rather than let that become a problem, Kopp executed an aggressive pass as the two transitioned onto the dirt section for the first time.
Once through, Kopp simply set sail at the front. Drane might have liked to formulate a plan to strike back at Kopp but was instead forced to worry about what was behind him as a pack of five riders closed in on his rear wheel – a group headed by an on-form Tarren Santero (No. 75 Vinson Construction/P&M Motorcycles Honda CRF450R).
Drane and Santero then two carried their fight for second to the checkered flag as Bronson Pearce (No. 132 Scott Cason @ USA Mortgage Honda CRF450R), Chad Cose (No. 49 D&D Cycles/DG79 Husqvarna FC450), and Justin Anselmi (No. 115 Team TDR/Unsettled Racing Yamaha YZ450F) retreated from the podium battle even as Chase Saathoff (No. 88 JPG Motorsports Honda CRF450R) marched his way forward.
Saathoff’s climb merely gave him a front-row seat from fourth to witness Santero pull off a final-lap acing of Drane in order secure his first career Progressive AFT podium with a runner-up result.
Supermoto specialist Pearce was right at home on the pavement-heavy circuit and it showed with a fifth-place finish just ahead of Cose, who finished sixth while sitting in for former teammate James Ott (No. 19 1st Impressions Race Team Husqvarna FC450).
Rookie Anselmi took seventh followed by another first-year pilot in Evan Renshaw (No. 265 American Honda/Mission Foods CRF450R). Olin Kissler (No. 40 JCM Construction KTM 450 SX-F) and Jared Lowe (No. 63 BigR/Little Debbie Racing Honda CRF450R) completed the top ten.
Kopp’s victory puts him in strong position to lock up a championship early for the third time. He now leads by 34 points over Saathoff and 40 over Drane as the series next heads to Springfield with the #1 plate both on his bike and in his sights.
He said, “It’s awesome to get a TT (win) finally. It took a lot of starts and a lot of days on TTs where we were fastest all day and just didn’t finish the job… We’re on track for a third championship and this break coming up is much needed.”
Sammy Halbert (69). Photo courtesy AFT.
AFT AdventureTrackers™
As both hoped and expected, the AFT AdventureTrackers made a huge impression in the class’ eagerly awaited debut. Featuring near-stock Dual Adventure bikes piloted by riders from a diverse set of racing backgrounds – including dirt track, roadracing, enduro, Super Hooligan, and stunt – the AFT AdventureTrackers competitors treated fans to a one-of-a-kind demonstration that illustrated the full potential of the versatile machines.
And none did so as effectively as a pair of full-time flat trackers in Dan Bromley (No. 62 Sody Enterprises/Memphis Shades/Vinson Honda Africa Twin) and Sammy Halbert (No. 69 Triumph Racing Triumph Tiger 1200).
The two ran off at the front, Bromley looking smooth and controlled while Halbert was all aggression and excitement. Halbert took the lead momentarily, but a bobble allowed Bromley right back through and once again in control.
However, any and all potential for last-lap fireworks was erased when Bromley momentarily lost power, handing first position – and ultimately the win – over to Halbert.
“It was actually quite easy for me to ride that Triumph, it worked so well,” Halbert said. “I’m just a little guy and that’s a big bike, but it’s so nice and easy to ride. I’m so stoked to get that win in the inaugural race for the class… It was a rad event.”
Five-time Enduro World Champion Iván Cervantes (Triumph Racing Triumph Tiger 1200) worked his way around four-time Daytona 200 winner Danny Eslick (No. 64 Saddlemen Race Development Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250) to secure second place as the two completed a star-studded podium.
Robby McLendon (No. 169 Triumph Racing Triumph Tiger 1200) and Kole King (No. 80 Triumph Racing/Triumph Indianapolis Triumph Tiger 1200) made it four Triumphs in the top five, followed by pre-race favorite Frankie Garcia (No. 14 Saddlemen Race Development Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250), whose shot at the win stalled off the line.
Next Up:
The battle for the Grand National Championship will resume when Progressive AFT descends on the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield, Illinois, for the Mission Springfield Mile I & II on August 31-September 1. Visit https://www.tixr.com/groups/meespromotions/events/springfield-i-and-ii-89223 to purchase your tickets today.
For those who can’t catch the action from the circuit, FloRacing is the live streaming home of Progressive AFT. Sign up now and catch every second of the on-track action, from the first practice to the victory podium, at https://flosports.link/aft.
The Arrowhead Brass Sturgis TT pre-race show will air on FS2 on Saturday, August 17, at 1:00 p.m. ET (10:00 a.m. PT), immediately followed by the race broadcast on FOX at 2:00 p.m. ET (11:00 a.m. PT). The complete two-hour pre-race and race package will then re-air on FS1 later that evening, starting at 9:00 p.m. ET (6:00 p.m. PT).
Champions Crowned In The Inaugural MotoAmerica Mini Cup National Championships
Five Riders Earn Number-One Plates And More In The Mission Mini Cup By Motul National Final At Road America’s Briggs & Stratton Motorplex
ELKHART LAKE, WI (August 11, 2024) – The final day of racing in the MotoAmerica Mission Mini Cup By Motul National Final on Sunday, saw racers from across the nation face the challenge of a new course layout at the Briggs & Stratton Motorplex at Road America. When the final checkered flag was thrown five riders claimed national titles in the first running of Mini Cup National Final.
As they did on Saturday, riders raced two legs on Sunday, and on a different circuit at the Motorplex, and the total of four rounds determined the overall class champions.
On Sunday, riders and spectators were greeted by picture-perfect weather with mostly sunny skies and temperatures in the mid-70s.
TopPro Racing’s Gabriel Datis was the first rider to complete a clean sweep when he clinched the Stock 110 Championship with a perfect score racing his Kawasaki. Team Sorrentino’s Blake Sorrentino finished second in the class and Beastmode Racing’s Christian Berlowitz took third.
“It feels really great to be a champion,” Datis said. “I felt a little pressure in that last race, but I just kept working and putting in good laps.”
Riders Club’s Mahdi Salem faced a much stiffer challenge on Sunday in the GP 190 class. Ohvale USA’s Kensei Matsudaira led the early laps of race three on Sunday, before Mahdi took control late. The two saved the best for last in race two, with several passes for the lead and Mahdi not securing his fourth consecutive win until a pass for the lead on the last set of turns. It was easily the most exciting race of the weekend and Kensei ended up turning in the fastest race lap of the day in any class with a 52.391-second lap in race two during their epic battle.
“I wasn’t going to pass him [Matsudaira] on the last lap where I did, but I got a good drive down that straight and had a lot of speed,” said Mahdi, who is set to begin his first year of high school this fall. “I almost hit his rear tire when I came up on him, but I was able to sweep by at the last second to take the win.”
Kensei finished runner-up in GP 190 with all second-place finishes and Williams Dalu took third.
Apex Racing’s Chase Jazikoff won the Stock 50 Championship with a perfect sweep of four races. Jazikoff endured a great challenge from CTR/Roof Systems’ Cruise Texter in both of Sunday’s races, with Cruise leading portions of both. Cruise’s strong Sunday earned him second in the Stock 50 class championship just ahead of Lucky 13’s Bron Macanga.
Ohvale USA’s Jase Dill was another rider with a perfect score at the end of the weekend in the GP 160 class. Historic GP’s Connor Raymond kept Dill honest by staying close in the final race on Sunday. Raymond, with four-straight runner-up results, was second in the overall and Datis was third. That made Datis the only rider in the championship to finish on the podium in two different classes.
CJR Performance’s Cameron Jones went unchallenged in the Street GP class on his very quick Honda Grom. Jones took convincing wins in all four rounds over the weekend in an unrestricted age class where the dads can race.
(Left to right) The top GP 190 riders on the weekend with second-placed Kensei Matsudaira, champion Mahdi Salem and third-placed Williams Dalu. Photo by Larry Lawrence, courtesy MotoAmerica.
Cruise Texter (26) led portions of both Stock 50 races on Sunday, but it was Chase Jazikoff (1) coming through to take victory in both races. Photo by Larry Lawrence, courtesy MotoAmerica.
Jase Dill dressed like a champion on the GP 160 podium. Dill (center) was joined on the podium by second-placed Connor Raymond (left) and third-placed Gabriel Datis (right). Photo by Larry Lawrence, courtesy MotoAmerica.
The start of the first GP 160 race on Sunday with race winner Jase Dill (97) taking the early lead. Photo by Larry Lawrence, courtesy MotoAmerica.
(From left to right) The Stock 50 podium featured Cruise Texter, class champion Chase Jazikoff and Bron Macanga. Photo by Larry Lawrence, courtesy MotoAmerica.
(From left to right) The Stock 110 podium with second-placed Blake Sorrentino, champion Gabriel Datis third-placed Christian Berlowitz. Photo by Larry Lawrence, courtesy MotoAmerica.
Street GP Champion Cameron Jones is flanked by runner-up Joshua Rodriguez and third-place finisher Shawn Bandel. Photo by Larry Lawrence, courtesy MotoAmerica.
(From left to right) We proudly present your 2024 Mission Foods MotoAmerica Mini Cup By Motul National Champions Jase Dill (GP 160 Champion); Gabriel Datis (Stock 110 Champion); Mahdi Salem (GP 190 Champion); Chase Jazikoff (Stock 50 Champion) and Cameron Jones (Street GP Champion). Photo by Larry Lawrence, courtesy MotoAmerica.
Collin Veijer to take on 2025 Moto2™ challenge with Red Bull KTM Ajo
2024 MotoGP news
Exciting Moto3™ hotshot Collin Veijer has earned a slot with the prolific Red Bull KTM Ajo team for 2025 Moto2 and the next phase in the 19-year old’s career journey.
The Dutchman is currently 4th in the 2024 Moto3 world championship and is negotiating only his second Grand Prix campaign. Veijer has made just 29 starts and has already grasped two victories and has appeared on the podium seven times since making his debut at the beginning of 2023.
Tall in stature and praised for his quick adaption to Grand Prix, his mature approach and natural attacking style; Veijer is one of the brightest prospects to emerge from The Netherlands this century and will step into the intermediate category next year to continue his rapid trajectory and his path in the KTM Academy.
Before coming to Moto3, Veijer fought for the 2022 Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup title and also captured wins and trophies in FIM JuniorGP. He has raced in Italy and uses Spain as a training base during the racing season. Collin will accompany Deniz Öncü as part of Aki Ajo’s decorated Moto2 rider roster. The squad have won three Moto2 titles with three different riders in 2021, 2022 and 2023 and helped four racers make the step to the MotoGP™ premier class in that time frame.
Collin Veijer: “I am super-happy to have signed with Aki and the Red Bull KTM Ajo team in Moto2. KTM is present in all GP classes and this is a great move for my career. It is such a renowned team and past results speak for themselves. For sure it won’t be easy coming from Moto3 but I will prepare myself well. 2025 is the right moment to make the step, also physically the Moto2 bike will suit me better. At the same time, I realise that we are still only half way through the current season and I will continue to keep my maximum focus to reach the best possible Moto3 championship result this year. “
Aki Ako, Red Bull KTM Ajo Team Principal: “I’m very happy to have Collin on board, as we have followed him for many years. He has shown great progress and professionalism and has already made his first steps in the program by taking part in the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup. During his two seasons in Moto3 he has shown that he is a rider with a bright future ahead of him on the world stage. What I also respect is his focus and his sacrifice, as his life is dedicated to reaching his targets at the highest level. It is a pleasure to continue with the KTM Academy’s work and to keep pushing to get the maximum potential out of the riders.”
Honda North Carolina Manufacturing is to become the first Honda production facility in the North American region to manufacture future electrified Honda powersports and power equipment products. Photo courtesy American Honda.
Honda Celebrates 40 Years of Production in North Carolina with Investment in ATV Production and Plans to Build Electrified Products
August 13, 2024 — SWEPSONVILLE, N.C.
Honda announces plans for global production of electric powersports and power equipment products in North Carolina
Honda completes transition of ATV production to North Carolina with $21.5 million investment in weld and paint operations to Swepsonville plant
Honda North Carolina Manufacturing now the exclusive home for Honda ATV production in North America
Honda North Carolina Manufacturing (NCM) today celebrated 40 years of production* in the Tar Heel State with a ribbon cutting for new weld and paint operations for all-terrain vehicles (ATV). These improvements are part of a $21.5 million investment that will complete the establishment of NCM as the exclusive manufacturing facility for Honda ATVs in North America. Honda also announced that NCM would become the first Honda production facility in the North American region to manufacture future electrified Honda powersports and power equipment products.
*Honda products are made using domestic and globally sourced parts.
On Monday, August 12, Honda North Carolina Manufacturing (NCM) associates gathered for a 40-year milestone photo at the Swepsonville plant to commemorate NCM’s 40 years of production in the Tar Heel State. Photo courtesy American Honda.
Kazuhiro Takizawa, president & CEO, and Bob Nelson, executive vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc., joined NCM associates and invited guests in a ceremony to officially open the new weld and paint operations at the Swepsonville facility. This now completes the transfer of ATV production from Honda South Carolina Manufacturing (SCM) in Timmonsville, S.C., to NCM. SCM will be focused exclusively on production of Honda side-by-side vehicles. Last year, SCM expanded production of Honda side-by-side models and celebrated 25 years of production in Timmonsville.
“Our decision to make North Carolina the home for Honda ATVs today and our electrified powersports and power equipment products of tomorrow is based on the 40-year commitment of Honda associates in the Tar Heel State to build quality Honda products for our customers,” said Mark Kohls, vice president of Honda Powersports and Products, American Honda Motor Co., Inc.
Over the past four decades, NCM associates have continually evolved their production capabilities to build a variety of Honda products and meet customer needs, starting with lawnmowers in 1984, followed by snow blowers, string trimmers, mini-tillers, water pumps, generators, and general-purpose engines. In 2023, NCM added ATVs to its production lineup, effectively launching a new powersports era at the longtime power equipment facility. Current NCM ATV production includes the popular Honda FourTrax series and TRX sport models.
“For more than 40 years, Honda associates in North Carolina have produced high-quality power equipment products to meet the needs of our customers,” said Lynne Hedrick, site lead at Honda North Carolina Manufacturing. “With complete ATV production capabilities now operational, we’re excited about the future of Honda powersports manufacturing in Swepsonville.”
NCM began power equipment production in North Carolina on August 6, 1984 as the third Honda manufacturing plant in America, producing walk behind lawnmowers. In 1993, Honda established a new research and development center in an adjacent facility dedicated to power equipment products.
NCM, a nearly 650,000-square-foot facility, represents a current capital investment of $416.5 million. In 40 years, NCM has built more than 50 million products.
Celebrating with NCM Associates and the Local Community
As part of NCM’s ongoing community support, Honda and the Honda USA Foundation have contributed over $1.15 million this year to local North Carolina programs and organizations. This includes the company’s support of several education and environmental programs for The Foundation for North Carolina A&T State University, as well as the Honda USA Foundation’s support of Triangle Bikeworks’ Youth Biking for Environment Sustainability program. During the anniversary week, Honda associates will help the local community by hosting an onsite snack pack and school kit packing event to benefit the Salvation Army.
A 2025-model KTM 450 SMR at speed. Photo courtesy KTM.
KTM RAISES THE BAR TO NEW HEIGHTS WITH THE ENHANCED 2025 KTM 450 SMR
Unveiling the 2025 KTM 450 SMR: a benchmark in the world of supermoto, designed for those who crave adrenaline and precision on the track. Combining cutting-edge technology with KTM’s race-proven engineering, the enhanced 2025 KTM 450 SMR offers unrivaled performance, agility, and power.
Using the recently updated 2025 KTM 450 SX-F as its base, the 2025 KTM 450 SMR raises the bar even higher, with key enhancements to the frame, fork, and ergonomics.
With its championship-winning 450 cc SOHC powerplant already a highlight, the 2025 KTM 450 SMR benefits from a slew of updates as found on the newly updated 2025 KTM SX-F range. The biggest and most significant of these can be found on the frame, with visible cutouts and tube-wall thickness changes around the front end, with the engine and rear shock mountings also undergoing the knife.
The right side of a 2025 KTM 450 SMR at rest. Photo courtesy KTM.
Besides a 300 g weight-saving, these structural changes have been engineered to improve chassis flex characteristics and cornering behavior while maintaining overall stability. On the latter point, smaller footrests for 2025 maximize lean angles and reduce the risk of hooking up on curbs.
The 2025 KTM 450 SMR also receives an adjustable 48 mm WP XACT Closed Cartridge spring fork for the first time. This features a new mid-valve piston concept that optimizes oil flow within the cartridge and avoids unwanted oil foaming, maintaining damping characteristics. A new hydro stop in the last part of the stroke helps to keep a maximum of reserves in extreme scenarios, like bigger jumps or hard landings.
The left side of a 2025 KTM 450 SMR at rest. Photo courtesy KTM.
At the rear, a WP XACT rear shock benefits from an updated linkage with renewed seals and smaller diameter linkage bolts. The setup is taken directly from the KTM Factory Racing Team and has been thoroughly tested on both dirt and tarmac.
Ergonomically, the 2025 KTM 450 SMR benefits from new tank shrouds with bi-composite plastics on the upper and lower flanks. This not only provides a distinctive new look but also aids in cooling by channeling air more effectively.
With regard to air intake, an updated 1-piece inlet sleeve and snorkel design feature prevents any deformation, thanks to a more robust and stiffer construction, while an updated fuel tank mount protects the frame against wear and improves tank fitment.
Above the surface, full-orange bodywork, featuring red and black in-mold graphics, and a more durable black seat bring a cleaner look while communicating the 2025 KTM 450 SMR’s pure READY TO RACE intentions.
As with previous generations, the 2025 KTM 450 SMR is fitted with race-ready Metzeler Racetec SM K1 Supermoto tires wrapped around lightweight 16.5” front and 17” rear ALPINA rims.
A 2025 KTM 450 SMR, equipped with spiked tires, undergoing testing on the ice in Sweden. Photo courtesy KTM.
The 2025 KTM 450 SMR has been rigorously tested to ensure it can perform under the most extreme conditions. Supermoto World Championship rider, Lukas Höllbacher, put the machine through its paces in a variety of challenging environments, from scorching 105-degree heat on Spanish asphalt to sub-zero temperatures on ice in Sweden. These grueling test simulations ensure that the 2025 KTM 450 SMR can deliver top performance regardless of the conditions.
With its sights set on maintaining the top spot in the Supermoto category, the new 2025 KTM 450 SMR will be launching off the Mattighofen production line and available at your nearest Authorized KTM dealer from this November onward. To discover more about the 2025 KTM 450 SMR, visit KTM.com.
Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati's Josh Herrin leads the 2024 MotoAmerica Steel Commander Superbike Championship in the return to Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course after a 10-year hiatus.
Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
Herrin Leads Close Title Chase As Superbike Racing Returns To Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course
Ten Years Later And MotoAmerica’s Steel Commander Superbike Series Headlines A Return to Mid-Ohio
IRVINE, CA (August 13, 2024) – The last time the AMA Superbike Championship raced at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, a baby-faced, 24-year-old named Josh Herrin was struggling his way through a miserable Moto2 World Championship campaign and wishing he was at Mid-Ohio. That was 2014. This is now. And Herrin arrives at Mid-Ohio as the leader of the 2024 MotoAmerica Steel Commander Superbike Championship in the series’ return to the Buckeye State after a 10-year hiatus.
Everyone is champing at the bit to get back to racing in the Permco MotoAmerica Superbikes at Mid-Ohio event after a nearly one-month summer break since round six at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. The time is now for championship wannabes to step up as the series reaches its boiling point with rounds at Circuit of The Americas and New Jersey Motorsports Park hot on the heels of the much-anticipated seventh round at Mid-Ohio.
Herrin, the 2013 AMA Superbike Champion, is atop the standings but this championship is far from over as he has several rivals nipping at his heels. There are 46 points separating the top five in the point standings with three rounds and seven races left to run in the fight for the title.
With three wins and four additional podium finishes, Herrin and his Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati Panigale V4 R lead the Steel Commander Superbike Championship by 15 points over Attack Performance Progressive Yamaha Racing’s Jake Gagne with the three-time and defending champion somehow managing to contend for the title despite near-season-long arm-pump issues.
Gagne has just a single race win but he has scored points in each and every round, including four additional podium finishes to go with his lone victory.
Just eight points behind Gagne and 23 behind Herrin is Wrench Motorcycles’ Bobby Fong. The 2019 MotoAmerica Supersport Champion’s double win at Brainerd International Raceway put him atop the standings heading into the Ridge Motorsports Park round. It was there, however, that Fong faltered in race one when he chose to use slicks when he needed rain tires, and that miscue was followed by a crash in race one at Laguna Seca. Still, the Californian is having his best Superbike season yet and is still very much in the hunt for the 2024 title.
Gagne’s teammate Cameron Petersen is also in the midst of his finest Superbike season as he sits fourth and just four points behind Fong with three victories. The South African’s scorecard, however, has been marred by a crash in race three at Barber Motorsports Park, and mechanical failures at both Road America and Laguna Seca.
Fifth in the championship is Tytlers Cycle Racing’s Cameron Beaubier, the winningest Superbike rider thus far in 2023. Five-time MotoAmerica Superbike Champion Beaubier is 46 points behind Herrin after not scoring points in five races. The Californian won three of the first five races before suffering an injury that kept him on the sidelines for three races. Beaubier got back to his winning ways at Laguna Seca with a victory and a close second to Herrin in race two.
Herrin’s Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati teammate Loris Baz and EasyHealthPlans.com/TopPro Racing’s Sean Dylan Kelly are separated by six points with Baz sixth and Kelly seventh. Kelly is coming off a solid weekend at Laguna Seca where he finished fourth in race one and battled for victory before getting a close third (behind Herrin and Beaubier) in race two. Baz, however, was disappointed with his two sixth-place finishes at Laguna, a track he calls one of his favorites.
Beaubier’s teammate JD Beach sits eighth in the championship and arrives in Ohio hot off his two victories in the American Flat Track (AFT) races in South Dakota – the Black Hills Half-Mile and the Sturgis TT.
Vision Wheel M4 ECSTAR Suzuki’s Brandon Paasch and his fill-in teammate Xavi Forés are ninth and 10th in the title chase, respectively, but Forés will be handing the team’s Suzuki GSX-R1000R back to team regular Richie Escalante, who was injured in the opening round at Road Atlanta and will make his return to racing at Mid-Ohio.
Team Brazil’s Danilo Lewis sits 12th overall and leads the MotoAmerica Superbike Cup Championship over Jones Honda’s Ashton Yates.
The two Superbike races will get the green light at 3:10 p.m. (Eastern) on both Saturday and Sunday.
Pre-Race Mid-Ohio Notes…
Australian Mat Mladin has more AMA Superbike wins at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course than any other racer. Mladin won 10 Superbike Nationals on the 2.4-mile road course with his first victory coming in 2001 and his last coming in 2008. Mladin leads Josh Hayes in Superbike wins at the iconic track, 10-7.
The very first AMA Superbike race was held at Mid-Ohio in 1983 with motocrosser-turned-road racer Steve Wise taking the win in the circuit’s debut.
Twenty-three riders who competed at Mid-Ohio in 2014 are slated to return and race at the legendary road course again in 2024: Corey Alexander, David Anthony, JD Beach, Cameron Beaubier, Chris Fillmore, Max Flinders, Bobby Fong, Jake Gagne, Josh Gallusser, Hayden Gillim, CJ LaRoche, Jake Lewis, Stefano Mesa, Brian Mullins, Tyler O’Hara, Larry Pegram, James Rispoli, Hayden Schultz, Carl Soltisz, Cory West, Cody Wyman, Kyle Wyman, and Travis Wyman.
Cameron Beaubier and Josh Hayes split wins in the last two AMA Superbike races at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in 2014. Among active racers, Beaubier (2014) and Josh Herrin (2013) are the only two who have won a Superbike race at Mid-Ohio.
Suzuki holds the record for most victories at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course with 20, followed by Yamaha (11), Honda (10) and Kawasaki (5). Yamaha, however, has dominated since 2012, winning all six Superbike races through 2014, when the series last came to Mid-Ohio.
The Superbike lap record for Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course dates way back to 2008 when Ben Spies lapped the iconic 2.4 road course in 1:23.639 at an average speed of 103.301 mph. Spies will be on hand this weekend at Mid-Ohio as he’s the team principal for the Rahal Ducati Moto squad.
Cameron Beaubier’s race-one victory at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca a month ago was the five-time MotoAmerica Superbike Champion’s 63rd AMA Superbike win, a mark that puts him second to Australian Mat Mladin on the all-time AMA Superbike win list.
About MotoAmerica
MotoAmerica is North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series. Established in 2014, MotoAmerica is home to the AMA Superbike Championship as well as additional classes including Supersport, Stock 1000, Twins Cup, Junior Cup, and King Of The Baggers. MotoAmerica is an affiliate of KRAVE Group LLC, a partnership including three-time 500cc World Champion, two-time AMA Superbike Champion, and AMA Hall of Famer Wayne Rainey; ex-racer and former manager of Team Roberts Chuck Aksland; motorsports marketing executive Terry Karges; and businessman Richard Varner. For more information, please visit www.MotoAmerica.com and follow MotoAmerica on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and YouTube. To watch all things MotoAmerica, subscribe to MotoAmerica’s live streaming and video on demand service, MotoAmerica Live+
More, from a press release issued by Ducati:
Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati heads to the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course with Josh Herrin leading the title
Sunnyvale, Calif., August 14, 2024 — The famed Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, located just out of Lexington, Ohio, is back on the MotoAmerica championship calendar for the first time in a decade, with everyone chasing Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati’s Josh Herrin over the August 16-18 weekend.
Following on from one of his finest MotoAmerica rides in race two at Laguna Seca in which he withstood mountains of pressure to take the win and 2024 Steel Commander MotoAmerica Superbike Championship points lead, Herrin knows everyone will be eyeing him as the season gets down to the business end with just three rounds and seven races remaining.
Herrin is no stranger to Mid-Ohio and is one of only two riders on the current Superbike grid to have raced and won at the venue, where AMA Superbike Championship action was last seen back in 2014.
However, Herrin knows he and the entire MotoAmerica Superbike field will essentially be starting from scratch with zero previous race data and just two Friday practice sessions to get up to speed before the grid-defining Qualifying 2 session scheduled for 10:20 am EDT on Saturday morning.
Loris Baz comes to Mid-Ohio for the first time in his MotoAmerica Superbike career this weekend on his factory-backed Ducati Panigale V4 R. The French ace, recharged after returning to Europe during the summer break, is feeling at one with the Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati following a productive test at New Jersey Motorsports Park and is ready to bring the action around the picturesque 2.25-mile Mid-Ohio venue.
Loris Baz (Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati–#76)
“It’s such an iconic place—it’s great MotoAmerica has Mid-Ohio back on the calendar,” Baz said. “The Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati team and I had a test recently in New Jersey, which got me a little more comfortable on the bike, so I am really looking forward to the last part of the season. I have also been back to my full training regime, so I’m fitter than I have been all season. It’s going to be a great weekend, and I know we’ll be able to show our true potential.”
Josh Herrin (Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati–#2)
“Mid-Ohio is one of the great circuits in North America and belongs on the calendar,” Herrin enthused. “I am beyond excited to listen to my V4 R scream around this track! The Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati team and I have clawed our way back from a huge deficit to take over the championship lead, and we now have a great opportunity to win Ducati’s first American Superbike Championship in 30 years. Now, it’s down to business. It’s time to get it!”
The crucial seventh round of the 2024 Steel Commander MotoAmerica Superbike Championship sees on-track action commencing at 9:00 a.m. EDT. Baz and Herrin are scheduled to appear on track for Free Practice 1 at 11:20 a.m. EDT.
Race One will commence at 3:10 p.m. EDT on Saturday, August 17, and Race Two is scheduled for 3:10 p.m. EDT on Sunday, August 18, 2024.
Wolfe Racing Team (from left) Ryan Wolfe, Erika Wolfe, David Wolfe, and crew chief Dakari Harris. Photo by Highside Photo, courtesy Wolfe Racing Team.
MotoAmerica: Hart Racing to Sponsor Ryan Wolfe for the remainder of the Junior Cup Season
Hart Racing and Mechanicsville, MD racer Ryan Wolfe have partnered together for the final two rounds of the MotoAmerica Junior Cup series.
Ryan Wolfe, age 19, started the 2024 season strong with two second-place finishes at Road Atlanta. He hopes to make the most of these final two rounds and potentially close the points gap to the top three riders in the championship.
“I’m super thankful to be where I am right now,” says Wolfe. “I’ve never had an opportunity to represent a title sponsor this way. Hart Racing has always been in my corner since I first started racing in 2019. They have been so helpful, and I’m excited to finish out this Junior Cup season with their support.”
“Having Ryan on our team has been a blessing! He brings so much joy to the team, and we are blessed to be able to support him in his endeavors for the remainder of the season,” said Philip Hart, Team Owner of Hart Racing.
Ryan first joined the MotoAmerica grid in 2023 racing a Suzuki SV650 in the Twins Cup class. His best finish was seventh place at New Jersey Motorsports Park against tough competition. Stepping down to Junior Cup for 2024 where all bikes are power-limited, Wolfe has faced even more competition, but on equal machinery.
“Being on a bike with pretty much the same power as the whole grid has made me more confident in my racing,” says Wolfe.
Wolfe has also secured additional support from Spears Racing, Ktech Suspension, Dunlop Tire, Bauce Racing, OneX USA, KYT helmets, and Forma boots for this 2024 season.
Round five of the MotoAmerica Junior Cup championship returns to Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course for the first time in 10 years August 17th-18th.
Francesco Bagnaia (1) leading Brad Binder (33) during the MotoGP race in Austria in 2023. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Three points, two showdowns: the Red Bull Ring beckons as the title fight tightens up
The gap at the top is now the lowest it’s been after a GP since the season opener, and the rider chasing that duel arrives from a weekend masterclass. Welcome to Austria!
Monday, 12 August 2024
After racing it out for 37 points in the season opener in Qatar, the gap at the top of the MotoGP™ World Championship was two points. Having raced, battled, slipstreamed, duelled, attacked, defended and sweated for 333 more since, that gap has only increased by a single one. It’s Jorge Martin (Prima Pramac Racing) back in the driving seat on the road to the Red Bull Ring, Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) on the chase, and a new name in third after a stunning Silverstone double: Enea Bastianini (Ducati Lenovo Team). And this is one of Ducati’s most oft-conquered venues on the calendar. Are you ready?
The winner the last two seasons here – including doing the double last year – is Bagnaia. He’ll be feeling confident enough of attacking that three-point margin with a record like that. But Martin also has good memories here, scene of his first MotoGP™ win, and won’t go down without a fight. Meanwhile Bastianini, having been somewhat left out of a few narratives so far in 2024, put in a masterclass at Silverstone to put his name into the hat. 49 points used to be a lot, but it’s less when 37 points are on offer every weekend. It seems even less of a deficit considering it’s exactly the number Bagnaia pulled back on Martin between Catalunya and summer break…
Meanwhile Marc Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) had a solid weekend at Silverstone. Despite a crash on Saturday – just like Bagnaia – Sunday was a good haul of points. But he’ll need to find something more to challenge for the podium again in Austria… and luckily enough he’s a veteran of final corner showdowns for the win at the venue. This time though, he’d rather win one. This is one of the few venues where he’s never done that.
Fabio Di Giannantonio (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team) is impressing once again, however, and was closer to Marc Marquez by the flag at Silverstone than Marquez was to Bagnaia. He also pulled out a full Moto3™-style seat slap to tell Alex Marquez (Gresini Racing MotoGP™) to follow him – confidence clearly high. He’ll be looking to make an impression again in Austria on the back of his new contract too, and Alex Marquez will be looking to turn the tables. Marco Bezzecchi (Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team) likewise, and he arrives from a solid British GP despite an incident at the start of the Tissot Sprint that saw him skittled by Franco Morbidelli (Prima Pramac Racing). Bezzecchi was also on the podium in Spielberg last year.
However good the record for Ducati in Austria though, there is another factory that has taken to the top step – twice. KTM arrive on a tougher run as it stands but will be looking to start rebuilding their form in front of a partisan crowd, who will also have rookie superstar Pedro Acosta (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3) to cheer on for the first time in MotoGP™. Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) is now trailing the rookie through no fault of his own after some bad luck at Silverstone so will want to change that in Austria, whereas teammate Jack Miller took solid points and will want more. For Augusto Fernandez (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3), meanwhile, the rumour mill has now started to swirl regarding a test role for next year with another factory, but with nothing confirmed. One thing that is confirmed for Austria, however, is a wildcard for Red Bull KTM test rider Pol Espargaro, so his machinery will be of interest as the factory look to push back towards the front.
At Aprilia, more may have been expected for Silverstone, but there was a Sprint podium for Aleix Espargaro and from pole position too. Maverick Viñales had a tougher one, however, and both will be aiming higher in Austria. It could be a tougher venue, however, with the Noale factory not yet having finished better than sixth – a result taken one apiece by both riders in the last two years. They’re the only factory missing a podium at the venue, but in the world’s most exciting sport that’s not an indictment of the then, it’s an opportunity in the now. Test rider Lorenzo Savadori will also be out to add more data with a wildcard.
For Trackhouse, meanwhile, bouncing back is almost guaranteed after a tough end to Silverstone as Miguel Oliveira and Raul Fernandez crashed out together early on. As the centre of the rumour mill too, it was a spotlight Sunday and one they’ll be hoping to start reshaping with more points Austria – now both on 2024 RS-GPs too.
For Yamaha, Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™) continues to bank some points but they’ll want more. He has Yamaha’s best MotoGP™ result here, taken in 2022, and it will be interesting to see how their machine now takes on the less flowing, more stop go venue. We await news on teammate Alex Rins in the meantime after the Spaniard withdrew from Silverstone.
Honda will also be an interesting watch. After a first point in Germany following a visible step forward for Luca Marini (Repsol Honda Team), it seemed the Italian had more from Silverstone until a tyre pressure penalty. Still, the positives were clear. Johann Zarco (CASTROL Honda LCR) led the charge, however, and took 14th, with teammate Takaaki Nakagami (IDEMITSU Honda LCR) then promoted to that P15. Joan Mir (Repsol Honda Team) was forced to retire from the race at Silverstone with an issue, so fresh from a new contract he’ll be hoping more is possible in Austria – one of his very much favoured venues. The squad will also be joined by Stefan Bradl wildcarding with HRC Test Team to gather even more data.
Three points cover the duel at the top, Bastianini has chance to double down on his momentum, and Marquez is looking to stem the tide. The same can be said of KTM as the orange corner faces down Ducati on hallowed ground. Eight years ago the Italian factory put that winning cherry on top of their comeback with victory in Austria, and now an armada of riders will pit out with proven, world-reigning machinery. Back then, KTM were only just beginning their journey in MotoGP™. But they’ll want to start building their fight back to the very front this very weekend – so make sure to join us for the Motorrad Grand Prix von Österreich!
SHOWTIME
Saturday
Tissot Sprint: 15:00 (UTC +2)
Sunday
Grand Prix: 14:00 (UTC +2)
Moto2™: Garcia remains ahead as the field arrive into the Red Bull Ring
Winning your home Grand Prix is something only a privileged few can say and on Sunday at the British GP, Jake Dixon (CFMOTO Inde Aspar Team) etched his name into Silverstone folklore as we were treated to a stunning fight for the win between the #96 and Aron Canet (Fantic Racing). Now, the Red Bull Ring beckons, with both riders hunting more success at a circuit that presents quite the opposing challenge to Silverstone’s fast and flowing DNA.
It remains Sergio Garcia’s (MT Helmets – MSI) in the hot seat in the Championship, but Dixon’s first victory of the season – his third overall – saw the Briton climb to P7 in the standings, with Canet now in P8 as the duo stand on 78 points apiece. The title might be out of reach, but hitting form at the start of the second half of 2024 could see both penetrate the top five – or better – come Valencia. For Dixon, three podiums in the last five are somewhat making up for the nightmare start to the campaign.
Dixon and Canet were in a league of their own at Silverstone, but plenty of other storylines were on offer. Celestino Vietti’s first rostrum in Red Bull KTM Ajo colours couldn’t have come at a better time ahead of the Pierer Mobility Group’s home race in Austria – and it’s the scene of the Italian’s last Moto2™ win too. Meanwhile, in the Championship chase, the pendulum swung back in Garcia’s favour.
An incredibly classy comeback from as low as P26 on the first lap saw Garcia pocket a crucial P4, as his main title rivals faltered. Ai Ogura (MT Helmets – MSI) – a P3 finisher at the Ring in 2023 – went from pole to P14, Fermin Aldeguer (GT Trevisan SpeedUp) had a very quiet weekend and picked up a P12, while Joe Roberts (OnlyFans American Racing) crashed out of P3. That means Garcia now leads Ogura by 18 points ahead of Round 11, with Roberts and Aldeguer 37 and 48 points back respectively. Responses needed for the hunters in Austria…
Moto3™: can Ortola strike again in Spielberg?
Another Moto3™ classic was rolled out at Silverstone and for the second time in three races, Ivan Ortola (MT Helmets – MSI) emerged as the victor. Pole position to Sunday P1 signalled a perfect weekend at the office for the Spaniard in Great Britain, with the #48 clipping five important points out of David Alonso’s (CFMOTO Valresa Aspar Team) Championship advantage.
But it was just the five as the Colombian finished a close P2 to limit the damage done. Interestingly, that’s Alonso’s first non-victory podium of the year and it keeps the #80 53 points clear at the summit. It’s now seven podiums in 10 races for Alonso as he continues his supreme 2024 march.
Collin Veijer (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP) claimed his fifth podium of the year with a P3 at the British GP, with Daniel Holgado’s (Red Bull GASGAS Tech3) P4 seeing the top four in the overall standings pick up the first four positions at Silverstone. Three of the four – Alonso, Veijer and Holgado – race Pierer Mobility Group machinery, so they’ll be hungry to impress further at the Red Bull Ring. For Ortola, Holgado and Veijer, points need to be taken off Alonso as soon as possible if they’re to retain hope of reeling in the Aspar star…
American Julian Correa (40) leads the field at Thruxton Circuit. Photo courtesy BTC.
Morelli Masterclass: wildcard shakes up Thruxton
The wildcard makes it a clean sweep despite the field closing in for Race 2
Monday, 12 August 2024
The 2024 R&G British Talent Cup’s sixth round was a Thruxton thriller with a dominant Race 1 victory from wildcard Marco Morelli (Fibre Tec Honda – MLav Racing).
The race began with Amanuel Brinton (Kovara Projects / RS Racing) on pole, coming into the round just 25 points behind championship leader Lucas Brown (SENCAT Talent Team / Mortimer Racing). However, it was wildcard entry Marco Morelli who quickly made his presence felt, moving up the field and challenging for the lead by breaking free from the pack by the end of the first lap, leaving Ryan Frost Frost (Fibre Tec Honda – MLav Racing), who had taken the holeshot at the start, without response.
A lead pack then formed, comprising familiar faces with Julian Correa (Microlise Cresswell Racing), Brinton, Brown, Ryan and Filip Surowiak (Honda – Team City Lifting/RS Racing) trading places and all vying for the lead and pulling over two seconds clear of the rest by the fifth lap.
Towards the end of lap 11, disaster struck for championship contender Brinton who made a misjudgement, clipped Lucas Brown, and ran off onto the grass, eventually crashing out. The incident allowed Frost and Correa to escape and finish second and third respectively.
The main news of the day, however, was wildcard Marco Morelli’s 11.785 second victory, coming from the European Talent Cup to show the British Talent Cup the level they’re aiming for as they all make progress on the Road to MotoGP™.
Wildcard entrant Marco Morelli (95) won both BTC races at Thruxton. Photo courtesy BTC.
The R&G British Talent Cup is streamed live on YouTube in 2024! Watch Race 1 HERE and Race 2 HERE.
The start of a British Talent Cup race at Thruxton Circuit. Photo courtesy BTC.
They made some of that progress in Race 2, with the Argentinian impressing to secure his second victory of the weekend – but this time with a much smaller lead.
The battle for the remaining podium positions was fiercely contested with Surowiak putting in a strong performance to claim second place. Correa rounded out the podium, closely trailing Surowiak with a gap of just 0.074 seconds.
Brown, the championship leader, managed to secure a fourth-place finish. It was challenging weekend for the SENCAT Talent Team / Mortimer Racing rider, who couldn’t match the pace of the leading trio but he was able to capitalise on the Race 1 mistake by his closest championship rival, Brinton, who rebounded to finish in fifth place in Race 2, as Brown carries his dominant lead into Round 7, 38 points clear.
The riders now head into a summer break, a chance to catch a breath and maybe even a rare British sunny day, before returning to action at Oulton Park on September 15th.
Roadracing World MotoGP Editor and Isle of Man TT winner Mat Oxley (right) and two-time World Championship-winning Crew Chief Peter Bom (left). Photo courtesy Mat Oxley.
Roadracing World MotoGP Editor and Isle of Man TT winner Mat Oxley and two-time World Championship-winning Crew Chief Peter Bom have started “The Oxley Bom MotoGP Podcast,” which will be focused on the FIM MotoGP World Championship.
The original podcast can be found on BuzzSprout.com or listened to via other places you get podcasts.
From the Oxley Bom Podcast:
Want to be a famous MotoGP racer? Then you’d better start young, move to southern Europe and make a name for yourself. And one of the best places to do that is in Red Bull Rookie Cup.
This week, we invite former racer and journalist Peter Clifford for a chat. For the last 18 years, he’s been responsible for guiding and helping the young talent in the Rookie Cup. He’s worked with people like Acosta and Binder when they were just teenagers, and knows exactly what goes into developing young talent into legendary riders.
What’s the selection process like? How do you make sure that talent from all over the world gets a fair shot? And what does he think about the future of MotoGP, as someone who works with the next generation of riders on a daily basis?
Want more? Visit our website or support us on Patreon. With big thanks as always to Brad Baloo from The Next Men and Gentleman’s Dub Club for writing our theme song. Check out The Nextmen for more great music!
Progressive American Flat Track (AFT) Championship Series
Sturgis TT
Sturgis, South Dakota
August 11, 2024
Provisional Parts Unlimited AFT Singles Main Event (6 Minutes + 2 Laps) Results (all on Dunlop tires):
1. Kody Kopp (KTM), 16 laps
2. Tarren Santero (Hon), -1.956 seconds
3. Tom Drane (Yam), -2.050
4. Chase Saathoff (Hon), -3.905
5. Bronson Pearce (Hon), -6.461
6. Chad Cose (Hus), -6.924
7. Justin Anselmi (Yam), -11.272
8. Evan Renshaw (Hon), -12.603
9. Olin Kissler (KTM), -14.184
10. Jared Lowe (Hon), -19.238
11. Trent Lowe (Hon), -19.380
12. Hunter Bauer (Yam), -21.938
13. Travis Petton (KTM), -1 lap
14. Tyler Raggio (KTM), -1 lap, -14.570
15. Ryan Hiatt (Hon), -2 laps
16. Ian Wolfe (Hon), -4 laps
Provisional AFT AdventureTrackers Main Event (6 Minutes + 2 Laps) Results (all on Dunlop tires):
1. Sammy Halbert (Tri), 15 laps
2. Ivan Cervantes (Tri), -4.809 seconds
3. Danny Eslick (Har), -6.291
4. Robby McLendon (Tri), -12.162
5. Kole King (Tri), -12.989
6. Frankie Garcia (Har), -20.922
7. Dan Bromley (Hon), -1 lap
8. Ernie Vigil (Tri), -1 lap, -7.186
9. Nick Brocha (Tri), -2 laps
Provisional Mission AFT SuperTwins Main Event (8 Minutes + 2 Laps) Results (all on Dunlop tires):
1. JD Beach (Yam), 19 laps
2. Briar Bauman (KTM), -1.715 seconds
3. Jarod VanDerKooi (Ind), -2.268
4. Davis Fisher (Ind), -7.106
5. Jared Mees (Ind), -9.693
6. Sammy Halbert (Yam), -10.641
7. Max Whale (Har), -13.667
8. Trevor Brunner (KTM), -18.083
9. Dalton Gauthier (Roy), -18.219
10. Brandon Robinson (Ind), -19.220
11. Brandon Price (Yam), -21.856
12. Dan Bromley (Yam), -1 lap
13. Kole King (KTM), -1 lap
14. Cameron Smith (KTM), -2 laps
15. Logan Mcgrane (Kaw), -2 laps
16. Jimmy McAllister (KTM), -3 laps
17. Daniel Poole (Kaw), -10 laps
More, from a press release issued by American Flat Track (AFT):
Beach Does the Dakota Double, AFT AdventureTrackers Put on a Show in Arrowhead Brass Sturgis TT Debut
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (August 11, 2024) – Neither pavement, dirt, rain, nor restart could prevent JD Beach (No. 95 Estenson Racing Yamaha MT-07 DT) from putting on yet another exhibition of all-around motorcycle mastery in Sunday’s Arrowhead Brass Sturgis TT presented by Rick Ware Racing & The CAT Rental Store, Round 13 of the 2024 Progressive American Flat Track season, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing.
While inclement weather pushed the planned proceedings back several hours, the event proved every bit the spectacle that was promised once the world’s elite dirt trackers finally locked handlebars on the unique hybrid racetrack laid out in the Streets of Downtown Sturgis, South Dakota.
And while the combination of pavement turns, dirt jumps and switchbacks put the talents of even the greatest Mission AFT SuperTwins riders to the test, world-class dirt tracker/road racer Beach looked to be in his natural environment.
Beach powered into the lead from pole and immediately threatened to sap all tension right from the race’s opening lap. However, despite Beach’s best efforts, reigning Grand National Champion Jared Mees (No. 1 Rogers Racing/SDI Racing/Indian Motorcycle FTR750) managed to inject the Main Event with an abundance of drama soon after.
The nine-time series king sank down the order at the light due to a poor launch, getting clipped and nearly taken out by Sammy Halbert (No. 69 OnlyFans/Martin Trucking Yamaha MT-07) as he was swallowed up by the pack. Trapped down in eighth early, Mees threw in a hard overtake on Brandon Price (No. 92 Memphis Shades/Sody Ent/OTBR Yamaha MT-07) entering the dirt section. That attempt resulted in contact, which knocked his opponent over and brought a stop to the race.
But the red flag only temporarily delayed Beach’s escape to victory. Peoria TT winner Briar Bauman (No. 3 Rick Ware Racing/KTM/Parts Plus KTM 790 Duke) got away well in second following the restart and hounded Beach for a time, but in time, the Estenson Racing substitute rider systemically eked away, one and two tenths per circulation, before finally working his way to a 1.715-second margin of victory.
The triumph was Beach’s second in the week, backing up his Tuesday night win at the Black Hills Half-Mile. It also increased his career TT wins total to nine, equal to Steve Eklund for third all-time and now training only Henry Wiles and Chris Carr. It also saw him set the new standard for wins at the most different TT courses at six.
“It’s been a great three rounds, but this round was amazing,” Beach said. “I’ve got to give it up to the whole fansbase. All of the fans were going crazy all day long, and so many people stuck it out despite all the rain. I think this race was awesome. And I’ve got to thank the Estenson Racing Monster team for letting me come out and do these three rounds to fill in for Dallas (Daniels). I’m bummed he’s not here because I know he would have given me a run for my money too, but it’s been a real good three races.”
Bauman, meanwhile, held on for second; this despite the late-race charge of Jarod Vanderkooi (No. 20 JMC Motorsports/Fairway Ford Ohio Indian FTR750), who finally earned his first podium of the ‘24 season by finishing third after several near misses along the way.
Davis Fisher (No. 67 Rackley Racing/Bob Lanphere’s BMC Racing Indian FTR750) limped his way to fourth after injuring his foot in the Mission #2Fast#Tasty Challenge, colliding with the wall while harrying Beach for the win.
And for all the excitement, Jared Mees (No. 1 Rogers Racing/SDI Racing/Indian Motorcycle FTR750) completed what must be considered a successful evening in fifth, as that result pulled him further clear of second-ranked (and tenth-placed) Brandon Robinson (No. 44 Mission Roof Systems Indian FTR750) in the title chase.
Meanwhile, Sammy Halbert (No. 69 OnlyFans/Martin Trucking Yamaha MT-07), Max Whale (No. 18 Latus Motors Racing/Liqui Moly Harley-Davidson XG750R), Trevor Brunner (No. 21 Mission Foods/Zanotti Racing Indian FTR750) and Dalton Gauthier (No. 79 Moto Anatomy X Powered by Royal Enfield 650) sandwiched between the championship leaders in sixth through ninth, respectively.
Mees’ advantage now sits at a healthy 22 points (251-229) with three rounds remaining, with Bauman closing in on second at 224.
Parts Unlimited AFT Singles presented by KICKER
Kody Kopp (No. 1 Rick Ware Racing/Parts Plus KTM 450 SX-F) did his part in ensuring the historic nature of the Arrowhead Brass Sturgis TT. The double defending class champion earned his first career TT victory at the event, which upped his record-setting tally of wins to 21, completed his quest for a Singles Grand Slam, and moved that much closer to an unprecedented third Parts Unlimited AFT Singles crown.
Kopp figured to be in for a serious fight when rival (and experienced roadracer) Tom Drane (No. 59 Estenson Racing Yamaha YZ450F) grabbed the holeshot. But rather than let that become a problem, Kopp executed an aggressive pass as the two transitioned onto the dirt section for the first time.
Once through, Kopp simply set sail at the front. Drane might have liked to formulate a plan to strike back at Kopp but was instead forced to worry about what was behind him as a pack of five riders closed in on his rear wheel – a group headed by an on-form Tarren Santero (No. 75 Vinson Construction/P&M Motorcycles Honda CRF450R).
Drane and Santero then two carried their fight for second to the checkered flag as Bronson Pearce (No. 132 Scott Cason @ USA Mortgage Honda CRF450R), Chad Cose (No. 49 D&D Cycles/DG79 Husqvarna FC450), and Justin Anselmi (No. 115 Team TDR/Unsettled Racing Yamaha YZ450F) retreated from the podium battle even as Chase Saathoff (No. 88 JPG Motorsports Honda CRF450R) marched his way forward.
Saathoff’s climb merely gave him a front-row seat from fourth to witness Santero pull off a final-lap acing of Drane in order secure his first career Progressive AFT podium with a runner-up result.
Supermoto specialist Pearce was right at home on the pavement-heavy circuit and it showed with a fifth-place finish just ahead of Cose, who finished sixth while sitting in for former teammate James Ott (No. 19 1st Impressions Race Team Husqvarna FC450).
Rookie Anselmi took seventh followed by another first-year pilot in Evan Renshaw (No. 265 American Honda/Mission Foods CRF450R). Olin Kissler (No. 40 JCM Construction KTM 450 SX-F) and Jared Lowe (No. 63 BigR/Little Debbie Racing Honda CRF450R) completed the top ten.
Kopp’s victory puts him in strong position to lock up a championship early for the third time. He now leads by 34 points over Saathoff and 40 over Drane as the series next heads to Springfield with the #1 plate both on his bike and in his sights.
He said, “It’s awesome to get a TT (win) finally. It took a lot of starts and a lot of days on TTs where we were fastest all day and just didn’t finish the job… We’re on track for a third championship and this break coming up is much needed.”
Sammy Halbert (69). Photo courtesy AFT.
AFT AdventureTrackers™
As both hoped and expected, the AFT AdventureTrackers made a huge impression in the class’ eagerly awaited debut. Featuring near-stock Dual Adventure bikes piloted by riders from a diverse set of racing backgrounds – including dirt track, roadracing, enduro, Super Hooligan, and stunt – the AFT AdventureTrackers competitors treated fans to a one-of-a-kind demonstration that illustrated the full potential of the versatile machines.
And none did so as effectively as a pair of full-time flat trackers in Dan Bromley (No. 62 Sody Enterprises/Memphis Shades/Vinson Honda Africa Twin) and Sammy Halbert (No. 69 Triumph Racing Triumph Tiger 1200).
The two ran off at the front, Bromley looking smooth and controlled while Halbert was all aggression and excitement. Halbert took the lead momentarily, but a bobble allowed Bromley right back through and once again in control.
However, any and all potential for last-lap fireworks was erased when Bromley momentarily lost power, handing first position – and ultimately the win – over to Halbert.
“It was actually quite easy for me to ride that Triumph, it worked so well,” Halbert said. “I’m just a little guy and that’s a big bike, but it’s so nice and easy to ride. I’m so stoked to get that win in the inaugural race for the class… It was a rad event.”
Five-time Enduro World Champion Iván Cervantes (Triumph Racing Triumph Tiger 1200) worked his way around four-time Daytona 200 winner Danny Eslick (No. 64 Saddlemen Race Development Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250) to secure second place as the two completed a star-studded podium.
Robby McLendon (No. 169 Triumph Racing Triumph Tiger 1200) and Kole King (No. 80 Triumph Racing/Triumph Indianapolis Triumph Tiger 1200) made it four Triumphs in the top five, followed by pre-race favorite Frankie Garcia (No. 14 Saddlemen Race Development Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250), whose shot at the win stalled off the line.
Next Up:
The battle for the Grand National Championship will resume when Progressive AFT descends on the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield, Illinois, for the Mission Springfield Mile I & II on August 31-September 1. Visit https://www.tixr.com/groups/meespromotions/events/springfield-i-and-ii-89223 to purchase your tickets today.
For those who can’t catch the action from the circuit, FloRacing is the live streaming home of Progressive AFT. Sign up now and catch every second of the on-track action, from the first practice to the victory podium, at https://flosports.link/aft.
The Arrowhead Brass Sturgis TT pre-race show will air on FS2 on Saturday, August 17, at 1:00 p.m. ET (10:00 a.m. PT), immediately followed by the race broadcast on FOX at 2:00 p.m. ET (11:00 a.m. PT). The complete two-hour pre-race and race package will then re-air on FS1 later that evening, starting at 9:00 p.m. ET (6:00 p.m. PT).
Mahdi Salem (10) and Kensei Matsudaira (74) had the best race of the weekend Sunday with the two swapping the lead until the final lap when Mahdi made a pass in the last set of turns. Photo by Larry Lawrence, courtesy MotoAmerica.
Champions Crowned In The Inaugural MotoAmerica Mini Cup National Championships
Five Riders Earn Number-One Plates And More In The Mission Mini Cup By Motul National Final At Road America’s Briggs & Stratton Motorplex
ELKHART LAKE, WI (August 11, 2024) – The final day of racing in the MotoAmerica Mission Mini Cup By Motul National Final on Sunday, saw racers from across the nation face the challenge of a new course layout at the Briggs & Stratton Motorplex at Road America. When the final checkered flag was thrown five riders claimed national titles in the first running of Mini Cup National Final.
As they did on Saturday, riders raced two legs on Sunday, and on a different circuit at the Motorplex, and the total of four rounds determined the overall class champions.
On Sunday, riders and spectators were greeted by picture-perfect weather with mostly sunny skies and temperatures in the mid-70s.
TopPro Racing’s Gabriel Datis was the first rider to complete a clean sweep when he clinched the Stock 110 Championship with a perfect score racing his Kawasaki. Team Sorrentino’s Blake Sorrentino finished second in the class and Beastmode Racing’s Christian Berlowitz took third.
“It feels really great to be a champion,” Datis said. “I felt a little pressure in that last race, but I just kept working and putting in good laps.”
Riders Club’s Mahdi Salem faced a much stiffer challenge on Sunday in the GP 190 class. Ohvale USA’s Kensei Matsudaira led the early laps of race three on Sunday, before Mahdi took control late. The two saved the best for last in race two, with several passes for the lead and Mahdi not securing his fourth consecutive win until a pass for the lead on the last set of turns. It was easily the most exciting race of the weekend and Kensei ended up turning in the fastest race lap of the day in any class with a 52.391-second lap in race two during their epic battle.
“I wasn’t going to pass him [Matsudaira] on the last lap where I did, but I got a good drive down that straight and had a lot of speed,” said Mahdi, who is set to begin his first year of high school this fall. “I almost hit his rear tire when I came up on him, but I was able to sweep by at the last second to take the win.”
Kensei finished runner-up in GP 190 with all second-place finishes and Williams Dalu took third.
Apex Racing’s Chase Jazikoff won the Stock 50 Championship with a perfect sweep of four races. Jazikoff endured a great challenge from CTR/Roof Systems’ Cruise Texter in both of Sunday’s races, with Cruise leading portions of both. Cruise’s strong Sunday earned him second in the Stock 50 class championship just ahead of Lucky 13’s Bron Macanga.
Ohvale USA’s Jase Dill was another rider with a perfect score at the end of the weekend in the GP 160 class. Historic GP’s Connor Raymond kept Dill honest by staying close in the final race on Sunday. Raymond, with four-straight runner-up results, was second in the overall and Datis was third. That made Datis the only rider in the championship to finish on the podium in two different classes.
CJR Performance’s Cameron Jones went unchallenged in the Street GP class on his very quick Honda Grom. Jones took convincing wins in all four rounds over the weekend in an unrestricted age class where the dads can race.
(Left to right) The top GP 190 riders on the weekend with second-placed Kensei Matsudaira, champion Mahdi Salem and third-placed Williams Dalu. Photo by Larry Lawrence, courtesy MotoAmerica.
Cruise Texter (26) led portions of both Stock 50 races on Sunday, but it was Chase Jazikoff (1) coming through to take victory in both races. Photo by Larry Lawrence, courtesy MotoAmerica.
Jase Dill dressed like a champion on the GP 160 podium. Dill (center) was joined on the podium by second-placed Connor Raymond (left) and third-placed Gabriel Datis (right). Photo by Larry Lawrence, courtesy MotoAmerica.
The start of the first GP 160 race on Sunday with race winner Jase Dill (97) taking the early lead. Photo by Larry Lawrence, courtesy MotoAmerica.
(From left to right) The Stock 50 podium featured Cruise Texter, class champion Chase Jazikoff and Bron Macanga. Photo by Larry Lawrence, courtesy MotoAmerica.
(From left to right) The Stock 110 podium with second-placed Blake Sorrentino, champion Gabriel Datis third-placed Christian Berlowitz. Photo by Larry Lawrence, courtesy MotoAmerica.
Street GP Champion Cameron Jones is flanked by runner-up Joshua Rodriguez and third-place finisher Shawn Bandel. Photo by Larry Lawrence, courtesy MotoAmerica.
(From left to right) We proudly present your 2024 Mission Foods MotoAmerica Mini Cup By Motul National Champions Jase Dill (GP 160 Champion); Gabriel Datis (Stock 110 Champion); Mahdi Salem (GP 190 Champion); Chase Jazikoff (Stock 50 Champion) and Cameron Jones (Street GP Champion). Photo by Larry Lawrence, courtesy MotoAmerica.
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