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MotoAmerica: Jacobsen Quickest In Supersport FP1 At Laguna

KurveyGirl.com brings you the results of this weekend’s events.

At our online motorcycle parts store, you’ll find a specialized selection of quarter turn “Dzus” fasteners, titanium hardware, premium tire valve stems, Vesrah racing brake pads, Brembo parts and accessories, and other unique hardware specifically designed for race and trackday motorcycles.

 

PJ Jacobsen topped MotoAmerica Supersport Free Practice One (FP1) Friday morning at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, in California. Riding his Rahal Ducati Moto w/XPEL Panigale V2 on Dunlop control tires, Jacobsen lapped the 2.2-mile course in 1:27.477 to lead the field of 39 entries.

Blake Davis was the best of the rest with a time of 1:27.727 on his N2 Racing/BobbleHeadMoto Yamaha YZF-R6.

Championship point leader Mathew Scholtz was third at 1:27.774 on his Strack Racing Yamaha.

Maxi Gerardo turned a fourth-fastest 1:28.409 on his EasyHealthPlans.com/TopPro Racing Suzuki GSX-R750.

David Anthony was fifth with a 1:28.479 on his Wrench Motorcycles Suzuki.

Tyler Scott filled out the top six with 1:28.554 on his Vision Wheel M4 ECSTAR Suzuki.

 

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Australian Superbike: Allerton Leads Practice Friday At Morgan Park

FP1 + FP2 + FP3

 

 

More, from a press release issued by ASBK:

Allerton lights it up in Morgan Park Superbike practice

Veteran Glenn Allerton has produced a late burst of speed to set the fastest time in practice for round four of the 2024 mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship presented by Motul (ASBK) at Morgan Park Raceway in Queensland.

The 43-year-old three-time Australian Superbike champion, who won his first title way back in 2011, turned back the clock as he set himself up for his most productive round of the season after being held back by injury in the early part of the year.

The Superbike cohort was joined on track today by the Michelin Supersport, Race and Road Supersport 300, ShopYamaha R3 Cup and bLU cRU Oceania Junior Cup classes. And with times extremely tight across the board, the circuit’s rich tradition for producing hair-raising battles is set to continue into 2024.

Friday results: www.computime.com.au

With glorious weather forecast across the weekend, there will also be plenty of fun to keep the whole family entertained, including pit walks, ‘Mini Moto come and try’ sessions for the kids, the ASBK Trade Alley and autograph sessions with riders and ASBK ambassadors Garry McCoy, Chris Vermeulen and Steve Martin.

To purchase tickets for Morgan Park Raceway, click here. Tickets will also be available at the gate.

Alpinestars Superbike

Allerton made his way to the sharp end in qualifying after uncorking a 1m12.917sec in the final session.

The New South Welshman was the only rider to dip into the 12-second bracket around the 2.96km 12-turn circuit – the lap record is 1:12.251 – with the balance of the Superbike sharp-shooters all in the 13-second range, starting with Cru Halliday (Yamaha Racing Team) ahead of a resurgent Arthur Sissis (Stop and Seal Yamaha), Morgan Park lap record holder Mike Jones (Yamaha Racing Team), Broc Pearson (DesmoSport Ducati) and championship leader Josh Waters (McMartin Racing Ducati).

Anthony West (Addicted to Track Yamaha), Max Stauffer (Penrite Racing Yamaha), Bryan Staring (MotoGP Yamaha) and Cameron Dunker (Penrite Racing Yamaha) saw out the top 10 in the 18-rider field.

Halliday was fastest in the first two practice sessions, while former junior speedway star and Moto3 campaigner Sissis – who has a new lease of life after a mid-season team switch – threatened to upstage everyone before dropping back to third.

Final practice will be held on Saturday morning before afternoon qualifying and two 16-lap races on Sunday.

Michelin Supersport

There was a fair bit of carnage in the Michelin Supersport paddock at Morgan Park Raceway today, with a number of riders going down, a messy oil leak for last-start winner Archie McDonald (Yamaha) and a couple of red flags.

After three sessions, two-time Australian Supersport champion Tom Toparis Racing (Yamaha) was fastest, ahead of series leader Jonathan Nahlous (Yamaha), 2023 Morgan Park pole man Hayden Nelson (Kawasaki), 2023 Morgan Park race winner Olly Simpson (Yamaha), Jack Favelle (Yamaha) and Tom Bramich (Yamaha).

McDonald and Jake Farnsworth (Yamaha), who both went down today, were seventh and eighth.

The riders and teams will now regroup ahead of qualifying at 9:30am tomorrow.

Race and Road Supersport 300 and ShopYamaha R3 Cup

It was a case of catch me if you can for Valentino Knezovic (Yamaha) in Race and Road Supersport 300 practice, as he led every session to take a heap of confidence into the business end of the round.

Knezovic is part of a runaway trip in the championship, just behind Kawasaki duo Josh Newman and Harrison Watts. But today it was New Zealander Jesse Stroud (Yamaha) who was the second fastest as his 2024 ASBK Championship baptism of fire continues: learning new circuits at every round!

Casey Middleton (Yamaha) was third fastest, with Will Nassif (Yamaha), Watts and Newman next.

Knezovic also dazzled in ShopYamaha R3 Cup practice, as the series makes its first ASBK appearance for the year. Nassif, Stroud and Jordan Simpson (Yamaha) were next.

Qualifying is tomorrow for both classes, followed by the first of three races.

bLU cRU Oceania Junior Cup

It was a Hunter – Charlett and Corney – benefit in practice for the Yamaha YZF-R15 juniors, followed by Rossi McAdam and Ethan Johnson.

Charlett was clearly the fastest – by nearly a second – but the pressure gauge will ramp up tomorrow as the stars of tomorrow give it their all.

MotoAmerica: O’Hara Tops Super Hooligan FP1 At Laguna

KurveyGirl.com brings you the results of this weekend’s events.

At our online motorcycle parts store, you’ll find a specialized selection of quarter turn “Dzus” fasteners, titanium hardware, premium tire valve stems, Vesrah racing brake pads, Brembo parts and accessories, and other unique hardware specifically designed for race and trackday motorcycles.

 

Tyler O’Hara was quickest in MotoAmerica RSD Mission Super Hooligan Free Practice One (FP1) Friday morning at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. Riding his S&S Indian FTR on Dunlop control tires, the defending Champion lapped the historic 2.2-mile road course in 1:30.689 to lead the field of 32 entries.

Cory West was second-best with a 1:31.452 on his Team Saddlemen Harley-Davidson Pan America, and Cody Wyman was third at 1:31.475 on his KWR Harley-Davidson Pan America.

 

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MotoAmerica: Larry Pegram Racing In Supersport At Laguna Seca

Editorial Note: During recent one-off rides, Larry Pegram, 51, finished fourth in Super Hooligan Race Two at COTA in 2023, fourth in Super Hooligan Race Two at Laguna Seca in 2023, and fifth in Superbike Race Two at Road America in 2022.

EasyHealthPlans.com/Top Pro Racing, already the largest race team in the MotoAmerica paddock, has added one more rider for the Superbike Speedfest at Monterey. Veteran rider Larry Pegram is a wild card entry, and will be aboard the #172 Suzuki GSX-R750 this weekend. The announcement was made by Alex Arango, team owner of TopPro Racing.

Pegram joins Maximiliano Gerardo in Supersport, and the team also includes Steel Commander Superbike riders Sean Dylan Kelly, Arango, and team co-owner Agustin Sierra. Along with Superbike, Arango and Sierra also compete in MotoAmerica’s Stock 1000 class.

“We are happy to have Larry riding with us this weekend,” Arango said. “We are looking forward to what we can learn from someone with so many years in the paddock and with so much experience around a motorcycle. Having Larry aboard one of our Suzuki GSX-R750 Supersport bikes is an honor for us, and we’re proud to have a team of five riders representing our sponsors and us at this round.”

“I just want to have fun and see all my old friends,” commented Pegram. “I love racing, and I especially love racing at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. I’m thankful to have this opportunity with Alex, Agustin, and TopPro Racing.”

Last year, Pegram was a wild card rider at both WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca and Circuit of The Americas in the Mission Super Hooligan National Championship. In recent years, he also raced in Stock 1000 a couple of times at Road America.

For the full 2024 MotoAmerica schedule and to purchase tickets for MotoAmerica events, click HERE

For information on how to watch the MotoAmerica series, click HERE

American Honda Adds Real-Time Dealer-Inventory Search To Website

Honda Enhances Real-Time Dealership-Inventory Website Feature

  • Feature enables quick, transparent access to dealer inventory

In a move aimed at improving the shopping experience for retail powersports customers, Honda has enhanced the real-time dealership-inventory feature on its consumer site, enabling shoppers to quickly and easily determine where they can purchase new models. Now, when researching a specific motorcycle, ATV or side-by-side at powersports.honda.com, customers can instantaneously check which nearby dealers have that particular model in stock. They can then request additional information, or simply visit the dealer in person.

 

A screenshot showing the new inventory search function on the Honda Powersports consumer website. Image courtesy American Honda.
A screenshot showing the new inventory search function on the Honda Powersports consumer website. Image courtesy American Honda.

 

Using the enhanced real-time dealer-inventory feature is easy. From any model page at powersports.honda.com, customers can simply click on the “Search Inventory” button, which links to a list of nearby dealers who have the model in stock. The dealer’s name, address and phone number are all provided, along with the driving distance. There’s also an option to email the dealer via a form.

“We all know the feeling of excitement that comes with deciding upon an important purchase like a brand-new powersports vehicle,” said John Stevens, Director of Powersports Operations at American Honda. “At those moments, it’s important for customers to be able to quickly and conveniently take the next step. The enhanced real-time dealership-inventory feature on Honda’s consumer website makes shopping hassle-free and transparent, by seamlessly connecting two of American Honda’s most important assets: our customers and our dealers. We’re pleased to support both with this improved feature.”

World Supersport: Montella Breaks Lap Record At Donington

Yari Montella was fastest in World Supersport Free Practice One (FP1) Friday morning at Donington Park, in England. Riding his Barni Spark Racing Ducati Panigale V2 on spec Pirelli tires, the Italian navigated the 2.5-mile (4.0 km) course in 1:28.907, which was fast enough to lead the field of 33 riders and break Nicolo Bulega’s 2023 All-Time Lap Record of 1:29.018.

Former MotoAmerica Supersport regular Valentin Debise was P5 with a 1:29.990 on his Evan Bros. Racing Yamaha YZF-R6.

 

WSS FP1

WorldSBK: Razgatlioglu P1, Gerloff P3 In FP1 At Donington Park

Toprak Razgatlioglu topped World Superbike Free Practice One Friday morning at Donington Park, in England. Riding his ROKiT BMW Motorrad M 1000 RR on Pirelli control tires, the Turkish star lapped the 2.5-mile (4.0 km) course in 1:26.419 to lead the field of 23 riders.

Italian Danilo Petrucci was second-best with a 1:26.835 on his Barni Spark Racing Team Ducati.

American Garrett Gerloff was third-fastest with a 1:27.052 on his Bonovo Action BMW.

 

Garrett Gerloff (31). Photo courtesy Bonovo Action BMW.
Garrett Gerloff (31). Photo courtesy Bonovo Action BMW.

 

WSBK FP1

Bridgestone Names New National Sales/Racing Manager

Jim Dowell Named Bridgestone’s First National Sales and Racing Program Manager for Motorcycle Products

Today, the Bridgestone Motorcycle Products team announced a strategic organizational change in the USA and Canada that will allow for additional levels of flexibility and responsiveness to customer and market needs.

Jim Dowell has been promoted to the newly created role of National Sales and Racing Program Manager for Bridgestone Motorcycle Products in the USA and Canada. With this promotion, Dowell will lead the sales team and racing efforts. Dowell’s primary responsibilities include developing and executing strategic sales plans, growing market share and optimizing profitability. Dowell joined Bridgestone nearly six years ago as Senior Manager of Channel Sales for Motorcycle Products. During his tenure with the company, Dowell has consistently been recognized for his dedication and performance, even earning the prestigious Bridgestone President’s Club Award in both 2020 and 2023 for outstanding sales. Dowell will report to Jared Williams, General Manager for Bridgestone Motorcycle Products in the USA and Canada.

Prior to joining Bridgestone, Dowell served as a U.S. Army officer for nearly 10 years and ended his military career as a Green Beret at the 5th Special Forces Group. He holds a bachelor’s degree in history and international relations from Harvard University. Outside of work, Dowell has been an avid motorcyclist for almost 20 years.

Ducati Releases Panigale V2 Superquadro Final Edition

The Panigale V2 Superquadro Final Edition, a tribute to the most sophisticated Ducati twin-cylinder engine

The collectible Panigale V2, in a limited and numbered series of 555 units, celebrates the final chapter in the history of the Superquadro twin-cylinder

High-value components complete an exclusive livery designed by Drudi Performance in collaboration with the Centro Stile Ducati.

The Panigale V2 Superquadro Final Edition will be available in December, accompanied by a certificate of authenticity and motorcycle cover

Sunnyvale, Calif., July 11, 2024 – Today, a limited-edition Panigale V2 is launched as a token of gratitude and passion for the Superquadro engine—the most sophisticated twin-cylinder engine ever produced by Ducati which began over thirty years ago.

Engines that have been the technical hallmark of Ducati Superbikes and Supersport, giving birth to iconic bikes such as the 748, 749, 848, 899 and 959, up to the current Panigale V2. This collector’s Panigale, produced in a limited and numbered series of 555 units, is a tribute to the Superquadro engine, whose story comes to fruition with Nicolò Bulega’s conquest of the first Supersport world title.

The first Superquadro engine was created in 2011 for the 1199 Panigale. The name derives from the high ratio between bore and stroke, in which the 1285 cc displacement allowed it to deliver an absolute benchmark of maximum power value for a twin-cylinder. Evolved over the years, it has also seen the birth of smaller displacement versions, first 898 and then 955. The latter helped win the first Supersport world title for Ducati in 2023 with Nicolò Bulega and won the MotoAmerica Supersport title in 2022 and 2023.

The technical design of the Superquadro twin-cylinder has set new standards for refinement and sophistication. The crankcases were made by Vacural® casting, with aluminum pressed-in cylinder liners equipped with NikaSil coating, which allowed the heads to be fixed directly on the crankcases. The head, clutch, and oil pan covers are made of magnesium. All this has helped to develop an extremely compact and rigid engine, a stressed element of an innovative chassis based on an unprecedented monocoque frame.

The desmodromic distribution has seen the adoption of “super-finished” rocker arms coated with DLC treatment to reduce friction and increase resistance to fatigue. The mixed chain/gear control has set new benchmarks in terms of efficiency and reliability.

The Panigale V2 Superquadro Final Edition features the Superquadro V2, with a displacement of 955 cc. It is as enjoyable on the road as it is effective and responsive on the track, with its 155 hp at 10,750 rpm and torque of 76.7 lb-ft at 9,000 rpm.

Ducati’s tribute to this revolutionary engine takes the form of a collector’s bike with the Panigale V2 Final Edition. The Superquadro Tribute livery, created by Drudi Performance and the Ducati Style Centre, remains faithful to Ducati design themes by using the characteristic colors: white, red, black, and grey.

The shield’s curve on the upper half of the cowl stretches out to align with the bike’s shape, and the number plate underneath follows its outline. The Superquadro engine is displayed on the sides of the fairing, showcasing its exact position. The tank’s dark and cold tone, the matt grey, accentuates the contrast with the colors on the fairing, giving the bike a modern character. The livery is then completed with the saddle embellished with embroidery that adds elegance to its sporty style.

Thanks to the 6-axis inertial platform, the Panigale V2’s electronic equipment guarantees the motorcycle’s safety and full control. The electronic package includes ABS Cornering EVO, Ducati Traction Control (DTC) EVO 2, Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC) EVO, Ducati Quick Shift up/down (DQS) EVO 2, and Engine Brake Control (EBC) EVO, which helps the rider optimize the stability of his Ducati in extreme corner entry conditions.

The technical features of the Panigale V2, using a monocoque chassis solution, are accompanied by Öhlins suspension and steering damper. The Rizoma rider footpegs are adjustable and made from billet aluminum. The front and rear mudguards, silencer end, chain guard, clutch cover protection, swingarm cover, and shock absorber cover are in carbon fiber. Additional features of the single-seated Panigale V2 Superquadro Final Edition include a lithium-ion battery and sports grips. The animation of the dashboard at key-on and the contact key is unique to this model.

For those wishing to use the Panigale V2 Superquadro Final Edition on a closed track, a kit for removing the license plate, mirrors, and billet aluminum racing tank cap, can be fitted. This removal kit is included with the purchase of the bike and is equipped with a GPS module for DDA data acquisition. *

Like every collectible Ducati, the Panigale V2 Superquadro Final Edition comes with a certificate of authenticity, a personalized motorcycle cover, and a unique, machined triple clamp featuring the model number.

The Panigale V2 Superquadro Final Edition will be available in United States dealerships in December 2024.

#DucatiWorldPremiere2025 #Ducati2025

Panigale V2 Standard Equipment

  • Superquadro L-twin engine, 955 cc
  • Monocoque chassis
  • 4.5-gallon aluminium tank
  • Öhlins Ø 48 mm upside-down fork, fully adjustable, with TiN treatment
  • Fully adjustable Öhlins monoshock with single-sided aluminum swingarm
  • Steering damper
  • Braking system with Brembo M4.32 monobloc calipers
  • Pirelli Diablo Rosso Corsa II Tires
  • Latest generation electronic package with 6-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (6D IMU): Riding Modes, Power Modes, ABS Bosch Cornering, Ducati Traction Control (DTC) EVO 2, Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC) EVO, Engine Brake Control (EBC) ) EVO, final gear self-learning, buttons for rapid change of levels
  • Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) up/down EVO 2, full LED headlight with Daytime Running Light (DRL), Öhlins steering damper, automatic indicator switch-off, lithium battery
    Single-seat configuration
  • Exclusive Panigale V2 Superquadro

Final Edition Equipment

  • Dedicated Superquadro Tribute livery
  • Billet aluminum triple clamp with progressive number
  • Dedicated rider seat
  • Dedicated dashboard animation at key-on
  • Dedicated contact key
  • Carbon fiber silencer end, front and rear mudguard, swingarm protection, chain guard, clutch cover, and shock absorber protection
  • Sport grips
  • Adjustable footrests machined from solid
  • GPS module
  • License plate holder removal kit *
  • Mirror removal kit in billet aluminum *
  • Tank cap machined from solid aluminum *
  • Dedicated motorcycle cover
  • Certificate of Authenticity

*Additional equipment for vehicles used exclusively on closed circuits. Use on public roads is prohibited by law.

MotoAmerica: How To Watch All The Action From Laguna Seca

MotoAmerica: How To Watch MotoAmerica Superbike Speedfest at Monterey

It’s All Here: How To Not Miss A Bit Of The Action

Everything you need to know to watch the weekend racing in California

 

MotoAmerica: Jacobsen Quickest In Supersport FP1 At Laguna

PJ Jacobsen (15). Photo from Ridge Motorsports Park by Brian J. Nelson.
PJ Jacobsen (15). Photo from Ridge Motorsports Park by Brian J. Nelson.

KurveyGirl.com brings you the results of this weekend’s events.

At our online motorcycle parts store, you’ll find a specialized selection of quarter turn “Dzus” fasteners, titanium hardware, premium tire valve stems, Vesrah racing brake pads, Brembo parts and accessories, and other unique hardware specifically designed for race and trackday motorcycles.

 

PJ Jacobsen topped MotoAmerica Supersport Free Practice One (FP1) Friday morning at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, in California. Riding his Rahal Ducati Moto w/XPEL Panigale V2 on Dunlop control tires, Jacobsen lapped the 2.2-mile course in 1:27.477 to lead the field of 39 entries.

Blake Davis was the best of the rest with a time of 1:27.727 on his N2 Racing/BobbleHeadMoto Yamaha YZF-R6.

Championship point leader Mathew Scholtz was third at 1:27.774 on his Strack Racing Yamaha.

Maxi Gerardo turned a fourth-fastest 1:28.409 on his EasyHealthPlans.com/TopPro Racing Suzuki GSX-R750.

David Anthony was fifth with a 1:28.479 on his Wrench Motorcycles Suzuki.

Tyler Scott filled out the top six with 1:28.554 on his Vision Wheel M4 ECSTAR Suzuki.

 

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Australian Superbike: Allerton Leads Practice Friday At Morgan Park

Glenn Allerton (14). Photo by RBMotoLens, courtesy ASBK.
FP1 + FP2 + FP3

 

 

More, from a press release issued by ASBK:

Allerton lights it up in Morgan Park Superbike practice

Veteran Glenn Allerton has produced a late burst of speed to set the fastest time in practice for round four of the 2024 mi-bike Motorcycle Insurance Australian Superbike Championship presented by Motul (ASBK) at Morgan Park Raceway in Queensland.

The 43-year-old three-time Australian Superbike champion, who won his first title way back in 2011, turned back the clock as he set himself up for his most productive round of the season after being held back by injury in the early part of the year.

The Superbike cohort was joined on track today by the Michelin Supersport, Race and Road Supersport 300, ShopYamaha R3 Cup and bLU cRU Oceania Junior Cup classes. And with times extremely tight across the board, the circuit’s rich tradition for producing hair-raising battles is set to continue into 2024.

Friday results: www.computime.com.au

With glorious weather forecast across the weekend, there will also be plenty of fun to keep the whole family entertained, including pit walks, ‘Mini Moto come and try’ sessions for the kids, the ASBK Trade Alley and autograph sessions with riders and ASBK ambassadors Garry McCoy, Chris Vermeulen and Steve Martin.

To purchase tickets for Morgan Park Raceway, click here. Tickets will also be available at the gate.

Alpinestars Superbike

Allerton made his way to the sharp end in qualifying after uncorking a 1m12.917sec in the final session.

The New South Welshman was the only rider to dip into the 12-second bracket around the 2.96km 12-turn circuit – the lap record is 1:12.251 – with the balance of the Superbike sharp-shooters all in the 13-second range, starting with Cru Halliday (Yamaha Racing Team) ahead of a resurgent Arthur Sissis (Stop and Seal Yamaha), Morgan Park lap record holder Mike Jones (Yamaha Racing Team), Broc Pearson (DesmoSport Ducati) and championship leader Josh Waters (McMartin Racing Ducati).

Anthony West (Addicted to Track Yamaha), Max Stauffer (Penrite Racing Yamaha), Bryan Staring (MotoGP Yamaha) and Cameron Dunker (Penrite Racing Yamaha) saw out the top 10 in the 18-rider field.

Halliday was fastest in the first two practice sessions, while former junior speedway star and Moto3 campaigner Sissis – who has a new lease of life after a mid-season team switch – threatened to upstage everyone before dropping back to third.

Final practice will be held on Saturday morning before afternoon qualifying and two 16-lap races on Sunday.

Michelin Supersport

There was a fair bit of carnage in the Michelin Supersport paddock at Morgan Park Raceway today, with a number of riders going down, a messy oil leak for last-start winner Archie McDonald (Yamaha) and a couple of red flags.

After three sessions, two-time Australian Supersport champion Tom Toparis Racing (Yamaha) was fastest, ahead of series leader Jonathan Nahlous (Yamaha), 2023 Morgan Park pole man Hayden Nelson (Kawasaki), 2023 Morgan Park race winner Olly Simpson (Yamaha), Jack Favelle (Yamaha) and Tom Bramich (Yamaha).

McDonald and Jake Farnsworth (Yamaha), who both went down today, were seventh and eighth.

The riders and teams will now regroup ahead of qualifying at 9:30am tomorrow.

Race and Road Supersport 300 and ShopYamaha R3 Cup

It was a case of catch me if you can for Valentino Knezovic (Yamaha) in Race and Road Supersport 300 practice, as he led every session to take a heap of confidence into the business end of the round.

Knezovic is part of a runaway trip in the championship, just behind Kawasaki duo Josh Newman and Harrison Watts. But today it was New Zealander Jesse Stroud (Yamaha) who was the second fastest as his 2024 ASBK Championship baptism of fire continues: learning new circuits at every round!

Casey Middleton (Yamaha) was third fastest, with Will Nassif (Yamaha), Watts and Newman next.

Knezovic also dazzled in ShopYamaha R3 Cup practice, as the series makes its first ASBK appearance for the year. Nassif, Stroud and Jordan Simpson (Yamaha) were next.

Qualifying is tomorrow for both classes, followed by the first of three races.

bLU cRU Oceania Junior Cup

It was a Hunter – Charlett and Corney – benefit in practice for the Yamaha YZF-R15 juniors, followed by Rossi McAdam and Ethan Johnson.

Charlett was clearly the fastest – by nearly a second – but the pressure gauge will ramp up tomorrow as the stars of tomorrow give it their all.

MotoAmerica: O’Hara Tops Super Hooligan FP1 At Laguna

Tyler O'Hara (1). Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
Tyler O'Hara (1). Photo by Brian J. Nelson.

KurveyGirl.com brings you the results of this weekend’s events.

At our online motorcycle parts store, you’ll find a specialized selection of quarter turn “Dzus” fasteners, titanium hardware, premium tire valve stems, Vesrah racing brake pads, Brembo parts and accessories, and other unique hardware specifically designed for race and trackday motorcycles.

 

Tyler O’Hara was quickest in MotoAmerica RSD Mission Super Hooligan Free Practice One (FP1) Friday morning at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. Riding his S&S Indian FTR on Dunlop control tires, the defending Champion lapped the historic 2.2-mile road course in 1:30.689 to lead the field of 32 entries.

Cory West was second-best with a 1:31.452 on his Team Saddlemen Harley-Davidson Pan America, and Cody Wyman was third at 1:31.475 on his KWR Harley-Davidson Pan America.

 

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MotoAmerica: Larry Pegram Racing In Supersport At Laguna Seca

Larry Pegram (73), as seen riding a Tytlers Cycle Racing BMW in Stock 1000 at Road America in 2022. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
Larry Pegram (73), as seen riding a Tytlers Cycle Racing BMW in Stock 1000 at Road America in 2022. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.

Editorial Note: During recent one-off rides, Larry Pegram, 51, finished fourth in Super Hooligan Race Two at COTA in 2023, fourth in Super Hooligan Race Two at Laguna Seca in 2023, and fifth in Superbike Race Two at Road America in 2022.

EasyHealthPlans.com/Top Pro Racing, already the largest race team in the MotoAmerica paddock, has added one more rider for the Superbike Speedfest at Monterey. Veteran rider Larry Pegram is a wild card entry, and will be aboard the #172 Suzuki GSX-R750 this weekend. The announcement was made by Alex Arango, team owner of TopPro Racing.

Pegram joins Maximiliano Gerardo in Supersport, and the team also includes Steel Commander Superbike riders Sean Dylan Kelly, Arango, and team co-owner Agustin Sierra. Along with Superbike, Arango and Sierra also compete in MotoAmerica’s Stock 1000 class.

“We are happy to have Larry riding with us this weekend,” Arango said. “We are looking forward to what we can learn from someone with so many years in the paddock and with so much experience around a motorcycle. Having Larry aboard one of our Suzuki GSX-R750 Supersport bikes is an honor for us, and we’re proud to have a team of five riders representing our sponsors and us at this round.”

“I just want to have fun and see all my old friends,” commented Pegram. “I love racing, and I especially love racing at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. I’m thankful to have this opportunity with Alex, Agustin, and TopPro Racing.”

Last year, Pegram was a wild card rider at both WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca and Circuit of The Americas in the Mission Super Hooligan National Championship. In recent years, he also raced in Stock 1000 a couple of times at Road America.

For the full 2024 MotoAmerica schedule and to purchase tickets for MotoAmerica events, click HERE

For information on how to watch the MotoAmerica series, click HERE

American Honda Adds Real-Time Dealer-Inventory Search To Website

A 2024-model Honda CBR500R. Photo courtesy American Honda.
A 2024-model Honda CBR500R. Photo courtesy American Honda.

Honda Enhances Real-Time Dealership-Inventory Website Feature

  • Feature enables quick, transparent access to dealer inventory

In a move aimed at improving the shopping experience for retail powersports customers, Honda has enhanced the real-time dealership-inventory feature on its consumer site, enabling shoppers to quickly and easily determine where they can purchase new models. Now, when researching a specific motorcycle, ATV or side-by-side at powersports.honda.com, customers can instantaneously check which nearby dealers have that particular model in stock. They can then request additional information, or simply visit the dealer in person.

 

A screenshot showing the new inventory search function on the Honda Powersports consumer website. Image courtesy American Honda.
A screenshot showing the new inventory search function on the Honda Powersports consumer website. Image courtesy American Honda.

 

Using the enhanced real-time dealer-inventory feature is easy. From any model page at powersports.honda.com, customers can simply click on the “Search Inventory” button, which links to a list of nearby dealers who have the model in stock. The dealer’s name, address and phone number are all provided, along with the driving distance. There’s also an option to email the dealer via a form.

“We all know the feeling of excitement that comes with deciding upon an important purchase like a brand-new powersports vehicle,” said John Stevens, Director of Powersports Operations at American Honda. “At those moments, it’s important for customers to be able to quickly and conveniently take the next step. The enhanced real-time dealership-inventory feature on Honda’s consumer website makes shopping hassle-free and transparent, by seamlessly connecting two of American Honda’s most important assets: our customers and our dealers. We’re pleased to support both with this improved feature.”

World Supersport: Montella Breaks Lap Record At Donington

Yari Montella (55). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Yari Montella (55). Photo courtesy Dorna.

Yari Montella was fastest in World Supersport Free Practice One (FP1) Friday morning at Donington Park, in England. Riding his Barni Spark Racing Ducati Panigale V2 on spec Pirelli tires, the Italian navigated the 2.5-mile (4.0 km) course in 1:28.907, which was fast enough to lead the field of 33 riders and break Nicolo Bulega’s 2023 All-Time Lap Record of 1:29.018.

Former MotoAmerica Supersport regular Valentin Debise was P5 with a 1:29.990 on his Evan Bros. Racing Yamaha YZF-R6.

 

WSS FP1

WorldSBK: Razgatlioglu P1, Gerloff P3 In FP1 At Donington Park

Toprak Razgatlioglu (54). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Toprak Razgatlioglu (54). Photo courtesy Dorna.

Toprak Razgatlioglu topped World Superbike Free Practice One Friday morning at Donington Park, in England. Riding his ROKiT BMW Motorrad M 1000 RR on Pirelli control tires, the Turkish star lapped the 2.5-mile (4.0 km) course in 1:26.419 to lead the field of 23 riders.

Italian Danilo Petrucci was second-best with a 1:26.835 on his Barni Spark Racing Team Ducati.

American Garrett Gerloff was third-fastest with a 1:27.052 on his Bonovo Action BMW.

 

Garrett Gerloff (31). Photo courtesy Bonovo Action BMW.
Garrett Gerloff (31). Photo courtesy Bonovo Action BMW.

 

WSBK FP1

Bridgestone Names New National Sales/Racing Manager

Jim Dowell, the new National Sales and Racing Program Manager for Bridgestone Motorcycle Products. Photo courtesy Bridgestone.
Jim Dowell, the new National Sales and Racing Program Manager for Bridgestone Motorcycle Products. Photo courtesy Bridgestone.

Jim Dowell Named Bridgestone’s First National Sales and Racing Program Manager for Motorcycle Products

Today, the Bridgestone Motorcycle Products team announced a strategic organizational change in the USA and Canada that will allow for additional levels of flexibility and responsiveness to customer and market needs.

Jim Dowell has been promoted to the newly created role of National Sales and Racing Program Manager for Bridgestone Motorcycle Products in the USA and Canada. With this promotion, Dowell will lead the sales team and racing efforts. Dowell’s primary responsibilities include developing and executing strategic sales plans, growing market share and optimizing profitability. Dowell joined Bridgestone nearly six years ago as Senior Manager of Channel Sales for Motorcycle Products. During his tenure with the company, Dowell has consistently been recognized for his dedication and performance, even earning the prestigious Bridgestone President’s Club Award in both 2020 and 2023 for outstanding sales. Dowell will report to Jared Williams, General Manager for Bridgestone Motorcycle Products in the USA and Canada.

Prior to joining Bridgestone, Dowell served as a U.S. Army officer for nearly 10 years and ended his military career as a Green Beret at the 5th Special Forces Group. He holds a bachelor’s degree in history and international relations from Harvard University. Outside of work, Dowell has been an avid motorcyclist for almost 20 years.

Ducati Releases Panigale V2 Superquadro Final Edition

A 2025 Ducati Panigale V2 Superquadro Final Edition. Photo courtesy Ducati.
A 2025 Ducati Panigale V2 Superquadro Final Edition. Photo courtesy Ducati.

The Panigale V2 Superquadro Final Edition, a tribute to the most sophisticated Ducati twin-cylinder engine

The collectible Panigale V2, in a limited and numbered series of 555 units, celebrates the final chapter in the history of the Superquadro twin-cylinder

High-value components complete an exclusive livery designed by Drudi Performance in collaboration with the Centro Stile Ducati.

The Panigale V2 Superquadro Final Edition will be available in December, accompanied by a certificate of authenticity and motorcycle cover

Sunnyvale, Calif., July 11, 2024 – Today, a limited-edition Panigale V2 is launched as a token of gratitude and passion for the Superquadro engine—the most sophisticated twin-cylinder engine ever produced by Ducati which began over thirty years ago.

Engines that have been the technical hallmark of Ducati Superbikes and Supersport, giving birth to iconic bikes such as the 748, 749, 848, 899 and 959, up to the current Panigale V2. This collector’s Panigale, produced in a limited and numbered series of 555 units, is a tribute to the Superquadro engine, whose story comes to fruition with Nicolò Bulega’s conquest of the first Supersport world title.

The first Superquadro engine was created in 2011 for the 1199 Panigale. The name derives from the high ratio between bore and stroke, in which the 1285 cc displacement allowed it to deliver an absolute benchmark of maximum power value for a twin-cylinder. Evolved over the years, it has also seen the birth of smaller displacement versions, first 898 and then 955. The latter helped win the first Supersport world title for Ducati in 2023 with Nicolò Bulega and won the MotoAmerica Supersport title in 2022 and 2023.

The technical design of the Superquadro twin-cylinder has set new standards for refinement and sophistication. The crankcases were made by Vacural® casting, with aluminum pressed-in cylinder liners equipped with NikaSil coating, which allowed the heads to be fixed directly on the crankcases. The head, clutch, and oil pan covers are made of magnesium. All this has helped to develop an extremely compact and rigid engine, a stressed element of an innovative chassis based on an unprecedented monocoque frame.

The desmodromic distribution has seen the adoption of “super-finished” rocker arms coated with DLC treatment to reduce friction and increase resistance to fatigue. The mixed chain/gear control has set new benchmarks in terms of efficiency and reliability.

The Panigale V2 Superquadro Final Edition features the Superquadro V2, with a displacement of 955 cc. It is as enjoyable on the road as it is effective and responsive on the track, with its 155 hp at 10,750 rpm and torque of 76.7 lb-ft at 9,000 rpm.

Ducati’s tribute to this revolutionary engine takes the form of a collector’s bike with the Panigale V2 Final Edition. The Superquadro Tribute livery, created by Drudi Performance and the Ducati Style Centre, remains faithful to Ducati design themes by using the characteristic colors: white, red, black, and grey.

The shield’s curve on the upper half of the cowl stretches out to align with the bike’s shape, and the number plate underneath follows its outline. The Superquadro engine is displayed on the sides of the fairing, showcasing its exact position. The tank’s dark and cold tone, the matt grey, accentuates the contrast with the colors on the fairing, giving the bike a modern character. The livery is then completed with the saddle embellished with embroidery that adds elegance to its sporty style.

Thanks to the 6-axis inertial platform, the Panigale V2’s electronic equipment guarantees the motorcycle’s safety and full control. The electronic package includes ABS Cornering EVO, Ducati Traction Control (DTC) EVO 2, Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC) EVO, Ducati Quick Shift up/down (DQS) EVO 2, and Engine Brake Control (EBC) EVO, which helps the rider optimize the stability of his Ducati in extreme corner entry conditions.

The technical features of the Panigale V2, using a monocoque chassis solution, are accompanied by Öhlins suspension and steering damper. The Rizoma rider footpegs are adjustable and made from billet aluminum. The front and rear mudguards, silencer end, chain guard, clutch cover protection, swingarm cover, and shock absorber cover are in carbon fiber. Additional features of the single-seated Panigale V2 Superquadro Final Edition include a lithium-ion battery and sports grips. The animation of the dashboard at key-on and the contact key is unique to this model.

For those wishing to use the Panigale V2 Superquadro Final Edition on a closed track, a kit for removing the license plate, mirrors, and billet aluminum racing tank cap, can be fitted. This removal kit is included with the purchase of the bike and is equipped with a GPS module for DDA data acquisition. *

Like every collectible Ducati, the Panigale V2 Superquadro Final Edition comes with a certificate of authenticity, a personalized motorcycle cover, and a unique, machined triple clamp featuring the model number.

The Panigale V2 Superquadro Final Edition will be available in United States dealerships in December 2024.

#DucatiWorldPremiere2025 #Ducati2025

Panigale V2 Standard Equipment

  • Superquadro L-twin engine, 955 cc
  • Monocoque chassis
  • 4.5-gallon aluminium tank
  • Öhlins Ø 48 mm upside-down fork, fully adjustable, with TiN treatment
  • Fully adjustable Öhlins monoshock with single-sided aluminum swingarm
  • Steering damper
  • Braking system with Brembo M4.32 monobloc calipers
  • Pirelli Diablo Rosso Corsa II Tires
  • Latest generation electronic package with 6-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (6D IMU): Riding Modes, Power Modes, ABS Bosch Cornering, Ducati Traction Control (DTC) EVO 2, Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC) EVO, Engine Brake Control (EBC) ) EVO, final gear self-learning, buttons for rapid change of levels
  • Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) up/down EVO 2, full LED headlight with Daytime Running Light (DRL), Öhlins steering damper, automatic indicator switch-off, lithium battery
    Single-seat configuration
  • Exclusive Panigale V2 Superquadro

Final Edition Equipment

  • Dedicated Superquadro Tribute livery
  • Billet aluminum triple clamp with progressive number
  • Dedicated rider seat
  • Dedicated dashboard animation at key-on
  • Dedicated contact key
  • Carbon fiber silencer end, front and rear mudguard, swingarm protection, chain guard, clutch cover, and shock absorber protection
  • Sport grips
  • Adjustable footrests machined from solid
  • GPS module
  • License plate holder removal kit *
  • Mirror removal kit in billet aluminum *
  • Tank cap machined from solid aluminum *
  • Dedicated motorcycle cover
  • Certificate of Authenticity

*Additional equipment for vehicles used exclusively on closed circuits. Use on public roads is prohibited by law.

MotoAmerica: How To Watch All The Action From Laguna Seca

The start of MotoAmerica Superbike Race Two at Laguna Seca in 2023. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
The start of MotoAmerica Superbike Race Two at Laguna Seca in 2023. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.

MotoAmerica: How To Watch MotoAmerica Superbike Speedfest at Monterey

It’s All Here: How To Not Miss A Bit Of The Action

Everything you need to know to watch the weekend racing in California

 

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