MotoAmerica: Top Four Riders Separated By Nine Points In Superbike (Updated)

David Swarts

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July 10, 2024

MotoAmerica: Top Four Riders Separated By Nine Points In Superbike (Updated)

It’s A Four-Rider Battle For MotoAmerica Superbike Supremacy And It’s Laguna Seca Time

The Steel Commander Superbike Championship Heads To WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca For All-Important Round Six, July 12-14

IRVINE, CA (July 10, 2024) – If the MotoAmerica Steel Commander Superbike Championship were a three-course meal, we’d be licking our chops and getting set to dive into the steak and potatoes. Already consumed are the appetizers (Road Atlanta and Barber) and the salad (Brainerd and Ridge). Now you just hope you didn’t overeat because the big plate is in the kitchen (Laguna Seca and Mid-Ohio) and it’s likely to determine who will still be at the table for dessert (COTA and New Jersey).

And it’s oh so close. In fact, it’s never been closer as what we’re currently experiencing has never happened in the history of AMA Superbike racing – four riders vying for the title after 11 races and separated by just nine points. Nine points. Four riders.

And one of the most popular rounds on the calendar awaits as WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca beckons with two Steel Commander Superbike races and 50 points awaiting anyone who can do the double.

Wrench Motorcycles’ Bobby Fong sits atop the 2024 Steel Commander Superbike Championship point standings with 158 points as the series heads to the iconic circuit on the Monterey Peninsula. That’s one better than three-time and defending MotoAmerica Superbike Champion Jake Gagne (157 points), seven better than Gagne’s Attack Performance/Progressive/Yamaha Racing teammate Cameron Petersen (151 points) and nine more than Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati’s Josh Herrin (149 points).

And all four of the riders at the top have proven to be capable of winning championships. In addition to his three MotoAmerica Superbike titles, Gagne also has a 2014 AMA Daytona Sportbike title and a 2015 MotoAmerica Superstock 1000 Championship; Fong has the 2019 MotoAmerica Supersport title on his resume; Petersen won the MotoAmerica Stock 1000 Championship in 2020; and Herrin won an AMA Superbike Championship in 2013 and a MotoAmerica Superstock 1000 title in 2015.

But back to this year. Fong arrives at this point in the season after winning two races with four additional podiums. He also has just one DNF and that came in race one at Ridge Motorsports Park when he, like several others, opted for slicks when he should have chosen rain tires. Rain has been Fong’s bugaboo, but he likely won’t face that at “the dry lake” in July. There’s also the fact that despite it being his “home” round, WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca isn’t at the top of Fong’s list of favorites.

After getting hit with arm-pump issues that first reared its ugly head at Barber Motorsports Park, Gagne is the exact opposite of Fong when it comes to rain. He relishes the possibility as a wet racetrack takes a lot of the pressure of his arms and his best results this season have come in the rain. Case in point, Gagne’s only victory in 2024 came in the wet in race two at Road Atlanta in April. And his three podiums since then have all been in the wet. Still, Gagne has hung in there during what is a frustrating time with results like fifths, sevenths, eighths, and ninths somehow keeping him in contention.

It remains to be seen if Gagne’s physical condition will allow him to run at the front at Laguna or not, but there are plans to try something else with the arm issue during the one-month break between rounds six and seven (Mid-Ohio).

Gagne’s teammate Petersen is having his best season of Superbike racing to date with his three victories and four additional podiums putting him seven points out of the championship points lead. Petersen had a big crash in the first of two races at WeatherTech Raceway last year, but these things don’t seem to slow the South African.

Herrin heads to WeatherTech Raceway nine points adrift of Fong and with two race wins and three other podium finishes. He has clawed his way back into championship contention after a crash in race two at Road America marred his points tally. Although he recently won race two at Ridge Motorsports Park, Herrin was another who chose the wrong tires for race one, though he was able to soldier through to finish 11th.

Herrin is a fan of WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca (he even wrapped up his lone AMA Superbike title there in 2013) and the Ducati Panigale V4 has proven to work well there.

Okay, four riders, nine points. So that’s about it, right? Well…

… maybe not.

Herrin’s teammate Loris Baz is fifth heading into the Laguna round, 36 points behind Fong, in his return season of MotoAmerica Superbike racing. Baz loves WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca and in his last visit in 2021 he finished a fighting second to Gagne in both races.

TopPro Racing’s Sean Dylan Kelly, in his rookie season of MotoAmerica Superbike racing, is sixth, 51 points off the lead. Those two are longshots, but it’s never over in a season full of parity like this one where a bad day for even the cream of the crop can end up being an eighth-place finish.

The racer who is seventh in the championship and 55 points behind Fong may be the one who instills the most fear in the six riders ahead of him. That rider is five-time MotoAmerica Superbike Champion Cameron Beaubier.

Beaubier crashed out of race one at Road America at the end of May, suffered a broken right heel, and consequently missed the next three races. In his comeback race at Ridge Motorsports Park following surgery, Beaubier failed to score a point in the first race after opting for slicks instead of rain tires, then followed that up with a conservative eighth-place finish.

If Beaubier’s health/fitness has improved over the past two weeks, he could be a factor going forward. Especially so at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca where he has won nine AMA Superbike races – more races than any other rider in AMA Superbike history. We must also remember that Beaubier won three of the first five MotoAmerica races this year before his season unraveled with the Road America crash.

Beaubier’s teammate JD Beach will be hoping to give his season another kickstart as he is coming off a less-than-stellar weekend at Ridge Motorsports Park. Beach is eighth in the championship with his lone podium coming in race two at Road America.

Vision Wheel M4 ECSTAR Suzuki’s Brandon Paasch is ninth in the title chase, 12 points behind Beach and 14 ahead of 10th-ranked Hayden Gillim and his Stock 1000-spec Real Steel Motorsports Honda CBR1000RR-R SP.

Pre-Race Laguna Seca Notes…

Cameron Beaubier won two of the three Superbike races last year at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca with Jake Gagne winning the other. Gagne won race one with Josh Herrin second and PJ Jacobsen third. Beaubier topped Gagne and Herrin in race two before beating Herrin and Gagne in race two. Last year, Gagne left Monterey with a 34-point lead in the Superbike title chase.

In addition to winning two races, Beaubier also claimed pole position with his 1:22.959 lap of the 2.238-mile racetrack. The fastest race lap a year ago was also set by Beaubier with his 1:23.308 on the second lap.

The MotoAmerica Superbike lap record at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca is still held by Josh Herrin with his 1:22.908 dating back to Superpole in 2018. The race lap record, meanwhile, is held by Beaubier with his 1:23.185 coming in race three in 2020.

Cameron Beaubier is the all-time AMA Superbike race winner at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca with the five-time MotoAmerica Superbike Champion carding nine wins at the track in the hills east of Monterey. The second most wins among active racers is five, a mark held by Jake Gagne.

WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca has a long history of hosting AMA Superbike races with the first-ever Superbike race at the track on the Monterey Peninsula taking place in 1976 and won by Reg Pridmore.

With his most recent win at Ridge Motorsports Park two weeks ago, Josh Herrin moved out of a tie with Anthony Gobert for 19th on the all-time AMA Superbike win list and into a tie with Doug Chandler for 17th. Chandler and Herrin have 12 AMA Superbike wins to their credit.

The fourth annual “Rainey’s Ride To The Races” will take place on Friday, July 12 with several legends of the sport scheduled to take part in the ride and then stay for the races. The legends include Eddie Lawson, Bubba Shobert, Rick Johnson, Scott Parker, Doug Chandler, Thomas Stevens, Miguel Duhamel, Ben Spies and John Kocinski.

More, from a press release issued by Ducati:

Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati descends on the legendary WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca for round six of the 2024 Steel Commander MotoAmerica Superbike Championship

Sunnyvale, Calif., July 10, 2024 — There are many fine racetracks around the world, but few inspire the awe and excitement of WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca.

The ultra-undulating, 2.23-mile venue, nestled in the Salinas hills right next to Monterey in California, plays host to round six of arguably the closest MotoAmerica Superbike Championship in history as Josh Herrin and Loris Baz head the fight for the Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati team.

Herrin is on a roll right now. The Georgian decimated the competition in the latest round of the title chase in race two at The Ridge in Washington. It was his second win of the season to date and a result that moved him to within nine points of the championship lead.

Baz is also well and truly in the title fight. Improving every time he leaves the pitlane on the #76 Ducati Panigale V4 R, Baz lies 36 points adrift of the title lead, but two good results at his favorite track in North America could see the fast Frenchman become a key championship player.

Baz’s last appearance on the Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati at Laguna Seca in 2021 brings back fond memories to those who witnessed it. His round-the-outside pass on Cameron Petersen at the Corkscrew will go down as one of the most iconic moves in MotoAmerica history.

Loris Baz (Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati–#76)

“Going to Laguna Seca is always amazing,” Baz said. “It’s my favorite track in North America and one of my favorites in the world. The crowd is always packed, and the Ducati works really well there.

“We’ve been pushing up through the field at every race over the last couple of months. We’re getting stronger and stronger, so I’m really confident about this weekend. We have the speed in qualifying; now we just need to put it together over the full race distance.

“I can’t wait to get to Laguna Seca, see all the fans, and ride my Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati Panigale V4 R around that amazing track.”

Josh Herrin (Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati–#2)

“I’m really looking forward to racing at Laguna Seca,” Herrin said. “It is definitely one of my favorite tracks and a place I have had a lot of success at in the past. I still have the lap record for MotoAmerica from 2018.

“Last year, the track got some new pavement, but the Superbike field didn’t go as quickly as we thought we all would. This year, however, I think we’ll have a real shot at a new track record.

“Things in the championship are so close, but we have the momentum. We’ve had to claw our way back from a long way. We’ve been consistently on the podium and have taken two wins from the last three rounds, and with only four rounds to go, we have a lot of tracks coming up that will suit our bike.

“I’m feeling really positive coming into this weekend, and I’m also looking forward to riding with all the Ducatisti at Laguna Seca on Monday for the Ducati Ride Experience event.”

The pivotal sixth round of the 2024 Steel Commander MotoAmerica Superbike Championship sees on track action kicks off at 9:00 a.m. PST on Friday, July 12, with Herrin and Baz’s first hit-out scheduled for Free Practice 1 at 11:15 a.m. PST.

Race one of the Steel Commander MotoAmerica Superbike class is scheduled for 3:10 p.m. PST on Saturday, July 13, with race two set for 3:10 p.m. PST on Sunday, July 14.

MV Agusta Launches Superveloce 1000 Serie Oro

David Swarts

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July 9, 2024

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MV Agusta Launches Superveloce 1000 Serie Oro

MV Agusta Superveloce 1000 Serie Oro

The Shape of Desire

The Superveloce 1000 Serie Oro represents the achievement of a clear objective for MV Agusta: to create an object that embodies the desires of every motorcyclist. The combination of stylistic research, attention to pure aesthetic pleasure, technological innovation, and breathtaking performance has allowed MV Agusta to achieve the goal set at the beginning of the project. Today, the market sees a motorcycle that undoubtedly occupies an oneiric dimension, literally embodying the shape of desire.

A 2025 MV Agusta Superveloce 1000 Serie Oro at rest. Photo courtesy MV Agusta.

Design and Ergonomics

The new MV Agusta Superveloce 1000 Serie Oro is both a dream and a work of art. Produced in only 500 numbered units, it encapsulates MV Agusta’s unparalleled history in racing, the brand’s maniacal pursuit of aesthetic pleasure, and the continuous drive to push technological evolution further. The distinctive stylistic elements of the Superveloce 1000 Serie Oro, consistent with the Superveloce range, include round headlights that reference MV Agusta’s past, horizontally developed lines, and the aesthetic enhancement of using precious materials such as carbon fibre. The meticulous attention to every detail ensures harmony between forms, materials, and performance.

MV Agusta fitted the Superveloce 1000 Serie Oro with an "organ pipe" exhaust system exiting under the tail section. Photo courtesy MV Agusta. — MV Agusta fitted the Superveloce 1000 Serie Oro with an “organ pipe” exhaust system exiting under the tail section. Photo courtesy MV Agusta.

In the Superveloce 1000 Serie Oro, technology and style merge to create a true sculpture on two wheels. Designers and engineers have applied all their experience to achieve a combination of technique and beauty without compromise. One of the most characteristic elements, both technically and stylistically, is the presence of aerodynamic wings, marking a new paradigm in the design and development of new MV Agusta models. Beyond the crucial quest for the best aerodynamic penetration coefficient (Cx), the engineers also focused on optimising vertical load (Cz), with significant benefits for riding dynamics, ensuring incredible stability, a fundamental factor given the exceptional performance of the bike in terms of both top speed and acceleration.

Aerodynamic winglets, Öhlins forks, Brembo Stylema calipers, brake cooling ducts - there's a lot to see on the front of the MV Agusta Superveloce 1000 Serie Oro. Photo courtesy MV Agusta. — Aerodynamic winglets, Öhlins forks, Brembo Stylema calipers, brake cooling ducts – there’s a lot to see on the front of the MV Agusta Superveloce 1000 Serie Oro. Photo courtesy MV Agusta.

The aerodynamic wings on the fairing are not only elements with a strong visual impact but are perfectly integrated into the overall fluid dynamics management. In 1972, MV Agusta adopted similar aerodynamic solutions for its Grand Prix motorcycles, which the Superveloce 1000 Serie Oro draws original inspiration from. Extensive tests have shown that at high speeds, the bike offers absolute directional precision and stability, without sacrificing manoeuvrability and agility in different riding conditions. The analysis of aerodynamic flows, derived from aeronautics techniques, was a fundamental part of the development of the Superveloce 1000 Serie Oro, resulting in a final version of the bike that ensures optimal rider protection at high speeds, improved overall comfort, performance optimisation, perfect engine breathing, and hot air dissipation to ensure optimal usage conditions. The evolution of the design led to a reduction in the lower fairing’s extension and the development of a lateral aerodynamic opening to improve airflow.

The material chosen to give the Superveloce 1000 Serie Oro its aesthetic shape is carbon fibre, used in two different processes, forged and laminated, to add further stylistic refinement. There are 41 components made of carbon fibre, including the dashboard support, chain guard, full fairing, and other parts in the dedicated kit.

The iconic wheels are inspired by the stylised-star-shaped ones featured on the legendary MV Agusta F4 750 Serie Oro, reinterpreted with a stylistic exercise bridging past and future through a blend of cast and spoke wheels. The tribute to the F4 is also evident in the four-exit titanium exhaust developed by Akrapovic specifically for the Superveloce 1000 Serie Oro. This exhaust, with its characteristic “organ pipe” shape, is tuned to give the bike an iconic and distinctive sound, further enhanced by a carbon fibre heat shield.

The use of precious materials is evident in every detail of the Superveloce 1000 Serie Oro. The seat, for example, is designed to ensure the highest comfort combined with optimal ergonomics and made of leather and Alcantara – materials clearly belonging to the luxury world – and bearing the distinctive MV logo. A leather belt runs across the fuel tank’s entire length, starting from the laser-engraved plate at the base and continuing towards the “Superveloce 1000 Serie Oro” logo, under which the unit number is indicated. The rear wheel hub features the MV logo, with a design that mirrors the headlight, a unique detail in the world of two wheels. The use of titanium in the fasteners further enriches the Superveloce 1000 Serie Oro, which, as a tribute to MV Agusta’s history, features Ago Silver, Pearl Shock Red, and Gold Ciclistica colours.

Engine and Electronics

The Superveloce 1000 Serie Oro boasts a four-cylinder inline engine capable of delivering 208 HP (153 kW) at 13,000 RPM and 116.5 Nm of torque at 11,000 RPM. Thanks to the use of 16 radial titanium valves, a distinctive feature of all MV Agusta four-cylinder engines, forged titanium connecting rods, and DLC-coated cams, the engine of the Superveloce 1000 Serie Oro can reach 14,000 RPM, and thanks to the countershaft, it maintains minimal vibration, resulting in a smooth driving experience even at performance limits.

The engine management is entrusted to the integrated MVICS 2.1 system (Motor & Vehicle Integrated Control System) with eight injectors: four lower and four upper, with increased flow rate. The throttle body is 50 mm in diameter.

The electronics have been meticulously calibrated specifically for the Superveloce 1000 Serie Oro. The disengageable traction control features eight levels of intervention: two for wet or slippery conditions (Rain), three for road use, and three for the track. The disengageable FLC (Front Lift Control) works based on data collected by the inertial platform and, instead of preventing wheelies, it optimises them by maintaining an optimal angle to make the most of the incredible acceleration. This rider aid works in conjunction with the Launch Control.

There are four Riding Modes: three preset (Rain, Sport, Race) and one customisable by the rider (Custom). In this mode, the rider can set parameters such as throttle sensitivity, engine torque, engine braking, engine response, limiter, and electronic suspension settings.

The MV EAS 4.0 (Electronically Assisted Shift Up&Down) electronic gearbox works both for upshifting and downshifting, even with an open throttle.

The Ride by Wire acceleration system, with a torque management algorithm, features a negative stroke on the throttle grip, allowing disengagement of the Cruise Control, which is also standard on the Superveloce 1000 Serie Oro.

The Superveloce 1000 Serie Oro is equipped with an integrated GPS module that communicates directly with the MV Ride app, available for free across the entire MV Agusta range. Through this app, destinations can be entered, and corner-by-corner navigation viewed on the 5.5 inch TFT colour dashboard. Activating the Trip Record function initiates data acquisition. The experience begins before starting the engine and can be relived afterward by viewing the completed route, speed, gear used, lean angle, altitude, and travel times. The experience can be enriched by uploading the day’s route to share with other MV Ride App users. Among the various options of the MV Ride App, it is possible to customise the bike’s response through the Custom map, which can be renamed and even exchanged with other users. For example, one can create a “Tuscany” map to share later with other motorcyclists, fostering a community.

Completing the Superveloce 1000 Serie Oro’s electronic equipment is the satellite alarm with the Mobisat module, manageable via the Greenbox app, a service provided free to the customer for the first year.

Chassis

The trellis frame made of high-strength steel tubes is integrated with aluminium plates that hinge the single-sided swingarm, also made of aluminium alloy. The pin height is adjustable, with the adjustment range indicated on a specially designed plaque, also crafted with exceptional aesthetic care.

The Superveloce 1000 Serie Oro features an Öhlins electronic suspension system. At the front, it has 43mm diameter upside-down forks with a 120mm travel, treated with a TiN surface finish, and electronically adjustable for compression, rebound, and manual spring preload adjustment. To optimise stability, the suspension package includes an electronically adjustable Öhlins steering damper, capable of automatic intervention or manual setup to allow the rider to decide the best setup for their needs. At the rear, the suspension system is completed by an Öhlins mono-shock with a 36mm diameter and 120mm travel. The rear suspension is also electronically adjustable for preload, rebound and compression.

The combination between the incredible power unleashed by the four-cylinder engine, the stability at high speed granted by the aerodynamics and the outstanding agility of the Superveloce 1000 Serie Oro, is matched by a high-quality braking system. MV Agusta has relied on Brembo, opting for 320mm front discs with aluminium flanges and radial Stylema calipers with 30mm pistons, operated by a Brembo radial master cylinder. At the rear, there is a 220mm disc with a Brembo two-piston caliper with a 34mm diameter.

The power of this braking system is managed by the ABS system with two different levels of intervention. In Sport mode, indicated by an “S” on the dashboard, the ABS acts on both wheels with active cornering function and RLM (Rear wheel Lift-up Mitigation) active. The latter keeps the rear wheel on the ground during extreme braking, optimising the Brembo system’s power on both axles. In Race mode, indicated by an “R” on the dashboard, the ABS intervention is less invasive at the front, deactivated at the rear, and the cornering function is also deactivated, while the RLM system remains active but allows for a controlled lift of the rear wheel.

For the Superveloce 1000 Serie Oro, Pirelli has produced a dedicated version of the Diablo Supercorsa SP V4 with a characteristic red profile, adding refinement and exclusivity to the bike.

The pre-orders for the Superveloce 1000 Serie Oro were reserved exclusively to brand collectors. The few remaining units of the total 500 will be available through MV Agusta’s official dealer network. The lucky buyers who will be able to secure one will automatically be granted access to the same privileges and experiences reserved for collectors. The MV Agusta Superveloce 1000 Serie Oro UK price is £61,400.

Dedicated Kit

As with every MV Agusta Limited Edition, the Superveloce 1000 Serie Oro customer receives a dedicated kit for their bike. This exclusive kit includes a certificate of authenticity and origin of the motorcycle, with the same numbering as the vehicle, and a dedicated motorcycle cover to protect this motorcycle artwork when it rests in the garage. Adding further value, the dedicated kit includes:

Passenger seat in leather and Alcantara

Passenger footpegs and supports

Carbon passenger heel guards

CNC-machined brake and clutch levers

Height adjustment plates for the swingarm pin

To discover the all-new Superveloce 1000 Serie Oro, go to https://www.mvagusta.com /product/superveloce/1000-serie-oro

Canadian Sport Bike: Tremblay Leads Points Heading To AMP

David Swarts

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July 8, 2024

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Canadian Sport Bike: Tremblay Leads Points Heading To AMP

Sport Bike Preview: Van Winkle chases Tremblay to east coast at AMP

Hamilton, ON – After an extremely brief mid-season break, the Bridgestone Canadian Superbike Championship will get back underway with round four action this weekend, returning to the east coast and Atlantic Motorsport Park, July 12-14, presented by Pro Cycle and Canadian Kawasaki.

The Shubenacadie, Nova Scotia venue will hope this weekend brings better fortunes after historic flooding cancelled the event in 2023, and better weather will be music to the ears of two Economy Lube Pro Sport Bike riders who were eagerly anticipating their races one year ago – Sebastien Tremblay and Andrew Van Winkle.

The two find themselves in very opposite spots in the championship battle, as Tremblay has paced the standings since race two of the season and built up a 32-point advantage in the process, while Van Winkle only made his Sport Bike debut in round three.

However, the contrasting resumé’s meant very little in race two at Edmonton when Van Winkle stunned the field to become the youngest winner in Pro Sport Bike history, carving his way to the front in only his second appearance in the middleweight category.

The 17-year-old did capitalize on an injured shoulder that limited Tremblay all weekend, but there was plenty of other top riders he needed to beat at RAD Torque, including home favourite and race one winner John Laing who sits second in the championship.

What’s the biggest concern for the Sport Bike grid is that if anyone believed Edmonton could be a one-off for the Chilliwack, B.C. teenager, they should be reminded that his “home round” isn’t even Van Winkle’s favourite track – that honour would instead go to AMP.

It was at that track last season where the then-16-year-old took his first career pole position in the Pro Twins class, narrowly beating Jeff Williams who at that point had built up a perfect season. While he never got the opportunity to start from pole after the flooding cancelled the weekend, it was a turning point that launched Van Winkle’s championship season in the Twins category.

The FD Racing Suzuki rider will now enter Nova Scotia as a proven race winner at the track he loves most, a threatening message to the paddock as he looks to continue his winning ways on the east coast.

However, a more rested Tremblay will have his own fond memories of Shubenacadie, a track he is no slouch at either. The Turcotte Performance rider won there in 2018 and nearly did again in 2019, taking three consecutive podiums in the Sport Bike class at AMP, and he was set to be the pole-sitter himself one year ago.

He won’t need to concern himself with Van Winkle in the points battle, holding an 87-point lead over the teenager, but Tremblay saw his title grasp diminish at round three as he fought through the pain and will want to maximize every chance to restore that in round four.

Winner of the most recent Pro Sport Bike race, Andrew Van Winkle (45), will be looking to carry his momentum from round three into the weekend as he chases another top-step on the podium at Atlantic Motorsport Park - his favorite track. Photo by Rob O'Brien, courtesy CSBK. — Winner of the most recent Pro Sport Bike race, Andrew Van Winkle (45), will be looking to carry his momentum from round three into the weekend as he chases another top-step on the podium at Atlantic Motorsport Park – his favorite track. Photo by Rob O’Brien, courtesy CSBK.

It will represent the opposite type of weekend for Laing, who trimmed his deficit to Tremblay with a win and third-place finish at his home track but is one of the least experienced riders in the class at AMP.

The Vass Performance Kawasaki rider made the 49-hour drive straight from RAD Torque to AMP to race the sARL regional event last weekend, finishing second in each Pro Sport Bike race, but his best time of the round (1:11.363) would have placed him only seventh on last year’s grid.

The Cochrane, Alberta native will need to find more improvement if he hopes to keep his title hopes in good shape – a strong possibility for someone of his talent, but a tough spot to be in with only one day of unofficial practice before Friday qualifying.

Another pre-season favourite who now finds his back against the wall is Elliot Vieira, who wasn’t even scheduled to ride at AMP when the weekend was cancelled in 2023.

The Economy Lube Ducati rider has crashed out of three of the last four races to see his championship dreams evaporate, and his last AMP visit in 2022 yielded only sixth and fourth-place finishes, putting Vieira’s chances of a 2024 comeback on thin ice.

Hoping to leapfrog the title contenders will be teenage sensations Mavrick Cyr and Philip DeGama-Blanchet, who have traded weekends as the rookie to beat in their own personal rivalry.

Cyr seemingly moved the goal posts last time out as he earned his first career pro podium for Economy Lube Ducati, finishing second to Van Winkle in race two at Edmonton, and he will have another advantage coming his way as DeGama-Blanchet makes his first ever trip to Shubenacadie.

The 19-year-old Cyr took provisional pole in both Amateur Superbike and Amateur Sport Bike before the weekend was washed out in 2023, and the circuit was also the site of his first Amateur Superbike podiums as he finished third in each race, a strong indicator of how comfortable he feels around “Shubie.”

It will be the opposite for the 16-year-old DeGama-Blanchet who owns zero prior knowledge of the tight, twisty layout, but the Vass Performance Kawasaki star has exceeded expectations in virtually every race thus far and could continue to impress in his first visit to the east coast.

As for potential locals to throw into the mix, Atlantic Motorsport Park hasn’t seen as many wildcards in recent years but has plenty of regional talent to offer if that changes in 2024, including Eric Stanley.

The Halifax native beat Laing in both sARL races last weekend and posted times that would have placed him fifth on the national grid in 2023, making him a legitimate podium threat if he joins CSBK for round four at his home track.

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

British Talent Cup: American Correa P3 At Snetterton

David Swarts

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July 8, 2024

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British Talent Cup: American Correa P3 At Snetterton

Brown dominates Race 1, Brinton returns to the top in Race 2 thriller

Round 3 treated us to some phenomenal racing as Snetterton played host

Monday, 08 July 2024

Victories don’t get more dominant than Lucas Brown’s (SENCAT Talent Team / Mortimer Racing) in R&G British Talent Cup Race 1 at Snetterton. The #29 stormed clear in the wet conditions to win by a staggering 19.2 seconds, as Peter Willis (Microlise Cresswell Racing) and Jack Burrows (Burrows Engineering / RK Racing) claim podiums in a close fight between the pair.

Lucas Brown (29) won Race One at Snetterton. Photo courtesy BTC.

From the off, title-chasing Brown got into a phenomenal rhythm to stretch his lead at the end of Lap 1 to over two seconds over Filip Surowiak (Team City Lifting / RS Racing), before the latter crashed out of P2 on Lap 2. By Lap 4, Brown was a staggering 10 seconds clear of Burrows, who had Willis in tow.

With Brown racing off into the distance, the battle for P2 and P3 went down to the wire. Brown cruised to the chequered flag, with Willis pipping Burrows to P2 as the duo claimed hard-earned podiums in the tricky Snetterton conditions. Amanuel Brinton (Kovara Projects / RS Racing) and Daniel Goodman (Fibre Tec Honda) rounded out the top five, with Brown’s advantage over Brinton in the standings rising to 29 points ahead of Race 2.

The R&G British Talent Cup is streamed live on YouTube in 2024! Watch Race 1 HERE and Race 2 HERE.

BTC R1

In Race 2, Burrows managed to grab the holeshot down into Turn 1, but Brinton – from P10 on the grid – pounced halfway around the opening lap to grab P1 from Alexander Rowan (Alexander Rowan Racing), who briefly led before Brinton and then Brown came through. The latter was then the race leader, but Brinton clawed his way back past at the start of Lap 2.

The leading duo, Brinton and Brown, broke clear and were exchanging the lead lap after lap. Meanwhile, Surowiak and Julian Correa (Microlise Cresswell Racing) were locked in a battle for the final podium spot, four seconds away from the victory fight.

Amanuel Brinton (43) held off Lucas Brown (29) to win Race Two. Photo courtesy BTC.

As expected, the battle for the win went down to the wire. Brinton vs Brown, who would come out on top? Brinton led onto the final lap but Brown carved past at Turn 1. Brinton then bit back at Turn 2, as Brown then waited for Turn 9 to make his move. Brown held the lead into the final corner but on the run to the line, Brinton managed to reach the chequered flag 0.047s ahead of Brown to claw back five crucial points. Correa beat Surowiak by less than a tenth to claim P3, with Ryan Frost (Fibre Tec Honda) rounding out the top five.

Next up for the BTC riders and teams is a trip to the legendary Brands Hatch for Round 4, with Brown leading Brinton by 24 points in the title chase.

BTC R2
BTC Points after R2

SBS Introduces New Brake Pad Backing Plate Technology

David Swarts

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July 8, 2024

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SBS Introduces New Brake Pad Backing Plate Technology

SBS Introduces New Backing Plate Technology For DS Dual Sinter

Svendborg, Denmark – SBS Friction A/S, the leading manufacturer of brake parts for motorcycles, scooters, ATVs, and SxS vehicles for leisure and race use, is introducing an innovative new backing plate technology for its top-level racing compound, DS Dual Sinter. HeRidium as the new technology is called, is designed to match the extreme racing conditions and requirements for backing plate stability in World Superbike, and especially in 24 Hours World Endurance Stock class categories.

SBS brake pads with HeRi technology are labeled on the backing plate and on the product packaging. Image courtesy SBS Friction.

To improve backing plate strength and stability, and significantly reduce the risk of deformation (bending) and compound taper wear, SBS introduces the HeRidium backing plate technology – an innovative new technology composed of high-tech steel with specialized heat treatment.

The unique performance properties of SBS HeRi backing plate technology. Image courtesy SBS Friction.

“Over the past 25 years, motorcycles used for racing have developed a lot; more powerful engines, new tire compounds, suspension components, and a lot of technological integrations, just to highlight some of the developments taking place. All of this affects the amount of pressure put on the brakes as lap times get shorter and shorter, especially in extreme and high-performance races. With the new and innovative backing plate technology presented with HeRidium, we can meet what some of our Partners in Racing have requested, stronger backing plates capable of handling even the most powerful scenarios in racing,” Allan Østli, Race Manager @ SBS

The HeRidium backing plate technology will be implemented on specific Dual Sinter products and can be identified by the new identifier on the label and the product packaging. Get the overview on pages 60-62 in the new SBS Racing Brake Book 2024.

HeRidium-enforced DS-1 and DS-2 products will be available for purchase in the market from July 2024.

AHRMA: Cash Purse Posted For Open Two-Stroke Race At Laguna Seca

David Swarts

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July 8, 2024

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AHRMA: Cash Purse Posted For Open Two-Stroke Race At Laguna Seca

Prize Money for Top Open Two-Stroke Racers with AHRMA at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca

(Knoxville, TN) – Missing the scent of a two stroke motorcycle engine or the sound of a Yamaha TZ750 on a world class track? Want to put some money in your pocket by racing your own two-stroke motorcycle?

The two-stroke music and aroma return to WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca (WRLS) as part of the American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association (AHRMA) road race event at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca July 20 and 21. The event is part of the 2024 Bridgestone Tires AHRMA National Roadracing series.

Mojo Yamaha, Rising Sun Cycles and an anonymous AHRMA racer are sponsoring a purse of more than $2,500 for the top finishers in AHRMA’s Open Two-Stroke race event on Saturday, July 20. The first three finishers in each of the following tiers within the race will be awarded prize money: 125cc, 250cc, and 500cc+.

Any motorcycle powered by a two-stroke engine, regardless of displacement, number of cylinders, frame type, cooling type, or date of manufacture, is eligible for AHRMA’s Open Two-Stroke class.

Bridgestone Tires will award a certificate for one set of tires to the overall winner on Saturday. Bridgestone Tires, an AHRMA series sponsor, has supported AHRMA’s 125cc, 250cc and 500cc+ two stroke class for many years.

“You can’t have an event for historic road racing motorcycles without some two-strokes,” said Greg Tomlinson, AHRMA 2024 Chairman of the Board. “The Open Two-Stroke class is truly going to be a history lesson come to life because I expect we’ll have TZ750’s and RDs from the 70’s up against newer 125 and 250 GP bikes plus some big-bore exotics. My eyes, ears and nose can’t wait!”

A current competition license from a known organization is required. Race school is offered on Friday July 19 and after passing, the racer will be eligible to participate in Saturday’s and Sunday’s events. All competitors are required to practice on Friday. Learn more and sign up at AHRMA.org. Racing friends and family can purchase paddock passes here.

About Mojo Yamaha

Mojo Yamaha is a motorcycle racing team focused on classic Yamahas. The team runs monster Formula One racers based on the Yamaha FJ1100 engine pushed out to nearly 1300cc by Larry Cook Racing, as well as the legendary 2-stroke, the Yamaha TZ750. All bikes are housed in frames produced by the renown builder Denis Curtis at CMR Racing. Josh Hayes and Mojo Yamaha won Race 4 of the International Challenge the Phillip Island Classic in 2019.

About Rising Sun Cycles

Rising Sun Cycles have been importers of new and used Yamaha and Honda Grand Prix road-racing motorcycles and replacement parts and accessories since 1997. They possess a rock-solid reputation of providing fast shipping, support, and satisfaction and pride themselves on giving their customers the best service available, the best parts and accessories, and a staff that understands all aspects of our business.

ABOUT AHRMA

The American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association (AHRMA) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to competing on fantastic classic and true vintage along with a wide range of modern motorcycles. With over 3,000 members, AHRMA is the largest vintage racing group in North America and one of the biggest in the world. The association has grown steadily over the years, reflecting the increasing interest in classic bikes.

British Superbike: Race Two & Race Three Results From Snetterton

David Swarts

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July 7, 2024

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British Superbike: Race Two & Race Three Results From Snetterton

Editorial Note: Americans Julian Correa, Eli Banish, and Joshua Raymond, Jr. finished third, 12th, and 15th, respectively, in British Talent Cup Race Two Sunday at Snetterton.

SBK R2
SBK R3
SBK Points after R3

More, from a press release issued by MSVR:

Irwin aces the pack with Snetterton double to lead Bridewell by just four points

Glenn Irwin moved back to the top of the Bennetts British Superbike Championship standings after claiming a double race win at Snetterton. The Hager PBM Ducati rider held off his fierce rival Tommy Bridewell to claim the Quattro Group Race of Aces Trophy with just four points separating the pair ahead of Brands Hatch.

The second race of the weekend began in dry conditions and race one winner Storm Stacey got the launch off the line to lead the pack into Riches for the first time before Kyle Ryde took the lead into Wilson. However, Irwin was on the attack and he moved to the front and then was pushing to break the pack.

Irwin and Ryde had an edge with Ryan Vickers, Iddon, Bridewell and Danny Kent giving chase. It had been an impressive start from Bridewell as he carved his way up to third by lap five from his 16th place grid start.

However, the BMW Safety Car was deployed when Louis Valleley stopped with a technical problem and the bike caught fire, but whilst the Herock Racesafe marshals dealt with the incident, the rain began to fall and the race was red flagged.

The race restarted over five laps and Ryde got the holeshot to lead but as the pack reached Agostini, Irwin made his move and then edged out an advantage.

The battle for second though went Bridewell’s way as the reigning champion gave himself work to do after dropping down the order at the start to fifth on the opening lap, moving back through to second by lap three.

Iddon then grabbed third with a move at Brundle on the third lap to nudge Ryde back into fourth ahead of Andrew Irwin and Danny Kent. Vickers meanwhile ended a lonely seventh with Jason O’Halloran, Charlie Nesbitt and Josh Brookes completing the top ten.

Glenn Irwin then held off the pressure from his closest rivals to claim a double win and the Quattro Group Race of Aces trophy in an intense race three as he went head-to-head with Bridewell as Iddon also got into the mix, with just 0.125s separating the leading pair at the chequered flag.

At the start, Iddon launched into the lead from Ryde, Irwin and Danny Kent, but Irwin was determined and he first moved ahead of the McAMS Racing Yamaha rider at Agostini and by lap four had also picked off Ryde for second.

The leading trio began to have an edge as Iddon held off Irwin and Bridewell over the opening laps, but Irwin was pushing for the lead and he grabbed the advantage at Agostini on lap seven. Bridewell wasn’t going to let Irwin make a break though, and he attempted to get ahead with a pass at Murrays, but the Oxford Products Racing Ducati rider instantly fought back to regain the position.

Bridewell was able to make his move on lap eight for second and then he was hunting Irwin and on the last lap, the reigning champion was piling on the pressure. The Hager PBM Ducati rider made a mistake at Wilson, running wide, which allowed Bridewell to get alongside but Irwin wasn’t relenting into Palmer.

Irwin held off Bridewell to the finish with Iddon completing a double dose of podium finishes as he remained in striking distance of the pair at the finish line. Kent was leading the chasing pack in fourth place with Ryde and Andrew Irwin completing the top six.

Brookes had another top eight finish for FHO Racing BMW Motorrad, holding off Vickers with Jason O’Halloran and Charlie Nesbitt rounding out the top ten finishers.

Bennetts British Superbike Championship, Snetterton, Race 2 result:

Glenn Irwin (Hager PBM Ducati)
Tommy Bridewell (Honda Racing UK) +1.487s
Christian Iddon (Oxford Products Racing Ducati +2.163s
Kyle Ryde (OMG GRILLA Yamaha Racing) +2.197s
Andrew Irwin (Honda Racing UK) +2.642s
Danny Kent (McAMS Racing Yamaha) +2.682s
Ryan Vickers (OMG GRILLA Yamaha Racing) +3.723s
Jason O’Halloran (Completely Motorbikes Kawasaki) +4.311s
Charlie Nesbitt (MasterMac Honda) +5.556s
Josh Brookes (FHO Racing BMW Motorrad) +8.730s

Bennetts British Superbike Championship, Snetterton, Race 3 result:

Glenn Irwin (Hager PBM Ducati)
Tommy Bridewell (Honda Racing UK) +0.125s
Christian Iddon (Oxford Products Racing Ducati) +0.740s
Danny Kent (McAMS Racing Yamaha) +1.122s
Kyle Ryde (OMG GRILLA Yamaha Racing) +1.322s
Andrew Irwin (Honda Racing UK) +2.204s
Josh Brookes (FHO Racing BMW Motorrad) +6.948s
Ryan Vickers (OMG GRILLA Yamaha Racing) +8.510s
Jason O’Halloran (Completely Motorbikes Kawasaki) +8.635s
Charlie Nesbitt (MasterMac Honda) +8.979s

Bennetts British Superbike Championship standings:

Glenn Irwin (Hager PBM Ducati) 177
Tommy Bridewell (Honda Racing UK) 173
Christian Iddon (Oxford Products Racing Ducati) 156
Kyle Ryde (OMG GRILLA Yamaha Racing) 147
Danny Kent (McAMS Racing Yamaha) 147
Jason O’Halloran (Completely Motorbikes Kawasaki) 108
Leon Haslam (ROKiT Haslam Racing BMW Motorrad) 96
Ryan Vickers (OMG GRILLA Yamaha Racing) 92
Charlie Nesbit (MasterMac Honda) 85
Josh Brookes (FHO Racing BMW Motorrad) 80

For more information on the Bennetts British Superbike Championship visit www.britishsuperbike.com

Glenn Irwin

Hager PBM Ducati

“I was really pleased with both wins and it’s good to be back in the championship lead. I’ve probably lost a little bit this last month, but we continue to work hard and massive thanks to the team for the bike they gave me.

“We experimented a little bit in the first race and found some areas that worked well and others where we could still improve but I rode with clarity and resilience, and it was a well-executed victory.

“The weather conditions changed for the second race which meant I struggled with grip especially in the second half of the race and I lost the front several times. I had to dig deep and did a really good last lap so fair play to Tommy and Christian as they were there all the way. I love racing against Tommy as he’s like me and never gives up.

“It’s nice to get the Quattro Race of Aces trophy as well so I am proud of that achievement so a big thanks to the team and get well soon Jordan.”

MotoGP: Championship Drama And More From Germany

Michael Gougis

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July 7, 2024

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MotoGP: Championship Drama And More From Germany

Two-time and defending MotoGP World Champion Francesco Bagnaia had a solid weekend going but looked like he would leave the Sachsenring further behind title rival Jorge Martin in the Championship points chase. Instead, when Martin crashed out of the lead, Bagnaia took the win and the points lead going into the summer break. After nine rounds, Bagnaia has 222 points, Martin 212 and Marc Marquez 166.

Francesco Bagnaia (1). Photo by Michael Gougis.

Gresini Racing suffered a brutal Friday and Saturday, with Marc Marquez suffering two crashes, one a massive highside, and Alex Marquez plowing into the inflatable barriers on Saturday. The team’s smiles couldn’t have been much bigger on Sunday, with the Marquez brothers on the podium, Marc ahead of Alex.

Marc Marquez (93) leads Alex Marquez (73). Photo by Michael Gougis.

American Joe Roberts fought through the pain of a broken collarbone and finished eighth in the Moto2 race. But it could have been worse from a Championship point of view. The only two riders in front of him, Sergio Garcia and Ai Ogura, finished seventh and third, respectively. Garcia now leads 147-140 over Ogura, with Roberts third with 123.

Joe Roberts (16). Photo by Michael Gougis.

David Alonso’s win in the Moto3 race was his sixth in nine races.

David Alonso (80). Photo by Michael Gougis.

Moto2: Spaniard Ramirez Extends Contract With American Racing Team

David Swarts

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July 7, 2024

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Moto2: Spaniard Ramirez Extends Contract With American Racing Team

OnlyFans American Racing Team Extends Contract with Marcos Ramirez for the 2025 Season

Chemnitz, Germany – July 7, 2024 – The OnlyFans American Racing Team is excited
to announce the extension of our contract with rider Marcos Ramirez for the 2025
season. Following a successful partnership and impressive performances on the
track, both parties are happy to continue building on this momentum in the
upcoming year. The decision to extend his contract reflects our confidence in his
abilities and our commitment to achieving great results together.

“Marcos has been an integral part of our team’s success, and we are excited to
continue this journey with him,” said Eitan Butbul, Team Owner and Manager of the
OnlyFans American Racing Team. “His talent and hard work have been evident in
every race, and we believe that with our continued support, he will achieve even
greater milestones.” Avner Kass, Co-Owner: “We look forward to an exciting 2025
season with Marcos. Since joining us, he has consistently performed exceptionally
well, and we have complete confidence in his talent and potential.”

The 2024 season has seen Ramirez showcasing his talent, with several top-ten
finishes and a podium placement in Malaysia in 2023 that underscored his potential.
“I am very excited to continue racing with the Only Fans American Racing Team,”
said Marcos Ramirez. “The support from the team, the dedication of the crew have
been incredible. I am committed to giving my best and aiming for the championship
in 2025. Together, we will push the limits.” As we gear up for the 2025 season, the
American Racing Team expresses gratitude to all our sponsors, partners, and fans
for their support. We look forward to another thrilling year of racing

MotoGP: Results From the Motorrad Grand Prix Deutschland In Germany

Michael Gougis

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July 7, 2024

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MotoGP: Results From the Motorrad Grand Prix Deutschland In Germany

Francesco Bagnaia (1) leads Alex Marquez (73), Miguel Oliveira (88) and Marc Marquez (93). Photo by Michael Gougis.

Francesco Bagnaia won the MotoGP Liqui Moly Motorrad Grand Prix Deutschland after World Championship leader Jorge Martin crashed out of the lead with fewer than three laps to go. Marc Marquez raced from 13th on the grid to second at the finish, just ahead of his brother and Gresini Racing teammate Alex Marquez. With the win and Martin’s DNF, Bagnaia now leads the MotoGP World Championship standings by 10 points over Martin, with Marc Marquez third, 56 points back.

MotoGP Race Classification
MotoGP worldstanding

MotoAmerica: Top Four Riders Separated By Nine Points In Superbike (Updated)

July 10, 2024

Wrench Motorcycles' Bobby Fong (50) continues to lead the 2024 MotoAmerica Steel Commander Superbike Championship point standings. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.