MRA: Season Finale at Pikes Peak International Raceway

Mathilde Gasnier

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September 24, 2025

MRA: Season Finale at Pikes Peak International Raceway

The Motorcycle Roadracing Association (MRA) concluded its 2025 championship season with an unforgettable Round 5 finale at Pikes Peak International Raceway (PPIR). With titles still undecided and championship points razor-thin, the tension was palpable as Colorado’s fastest road racers lined up for one last showdown.

Fay Myers – Race of the Rockies GTO

Coming into the finale, Brad Hendry (1) had dominated the season, winning all four previous rounds. But Matthew Cunha (95) was far from conceding, entering the weekend just 25 points behind and determined to deny Hendry a perfect sweep. Adding to the intensity was Justen Behmer (4), still in striking distance and eager to finish the season on a high note.

Justen Behmer, Matthew Cunha, Brad Hendry, David Lambert push early in ROR. Photo By: Kelly Vernell. — Justen Behmer (67), Matthew Cunha (95), Brad Hendry (1), David Lambert (28) push early in ROR. Photo By: Kelly Vernell.

When the lights went out, Behmer rocketed off the line to grab the holeshot, leading the field into Turn 1 with Cunha, David Lambert (28), and Hendry in close pursuit. Hendry wasted no time moving forward, overtaking Lambert early to slot into third and setting his sights on the leaders.

Behmer held strong at the front for the first three laps until a near-crash in Turn 5 — saving the front end but losing crucial momentum. Cunha seized the opportunity, slipping past to take the lead and immediately building a one-second gap over the field.

As the laps clicked down, Hendry went on the attack, making a decisive move on Behmer to move into second and begin reeling in Cunha. Heavy lap traffic late in the race tightened the gap, setting up a thrilling final push. The pressure was relentless — at one point the leaders were separated by just 0.057 seconds — but Cunha remained composed, defending his lead through multiple challenges from the reigning champion.

Cunha (95) defends attacks from Hendry (1). Photo By: Kelly Vernell

Behind them, Lambert found late-race pace and made a decisive pass on Behmer to secure the final podium position.

When the checkered flag waved, it was Matthew Cunha (#95) taking a hard-earned victory, denying Hendry a perfect season and capping off the championship battle in style. Hendry crossed the line in second, with Lambert rounding out the podium in third. Despite finishing runner-up in the race, Hendry’s consistent dominance throughout the season secured him the 2025 Race of the Rockies GTO Championship.

Race Results – Fay Myers – Race of the Rockies GTO

Lambert 3rd place, Cunha 1st place, Hendry 2nd place in ROR GTO. Photo By: Kelly Vernell

1. Matthew Cunha (95)

2. Brad Hendry (1) – Secures 2025 ROR O Championship

3. David Lambert (28)

Apex Auto Glass – Race of the Rockies GTU

Jeremiah Walker leads ROR GTU race. Photo By: Kelly Vernell

While the Race of the Rockies GTO championship came down to the wire, the Race of the Rockies GTU class entered Round 5 with Sal Rizzo (9) holding a commanding points lead. Still, the finale at PPIR was anything but predictable, with Jeremiah Walker (562) determined to finish the season on top.

Rizzo chases Walker in Race of Rockies GTU.Photo By: Kelly Vernell

When the lights went out, Walker launched off the line to grab the holeshot, immediately stretching a gap on the field. By mid-race, he had carved out a dominant 14-second lead, leaving Rizzo and Steven Racz (37) to battle behind him. Rizzo would eventually find an opportunity to pass Racz and executed with precision.

Cruz sets his sights on Racz in Race of the Rockies. Photo By: Kelly Vernell

As Walker disappeared into the distance, the fight for the podium heated up. Geovanni Cruz (21) steadily reeled in Racz, closing the gap lap by lap before executing a clean pass through the carousel at Turn 5. Racz mounted a strong counterattack, but Cruz defended brilliantly, holding on to secure second place.

At the front, Walker remained untouchable, crossing the finish line with a commanding margin to claim the race victory. Behind him, Rizzo brought it home in second place — enough to secure the 2025 Race of the Rockies GTU Championship, rewarding his season-long consistency and speed. Cruz completed the podium in third after his decisive late-race move.

Race Results – ROR GTU (Apex Auto Glass – Race of the Rockies)

Jeremiah Walker 1st place, Geovanni Cruz 3rd place, Sal Rizzo 2nd place. Photo By: Kelly Vernell

1. Jeremiah Walker (562)

2. Sal Rizzo (9) – Secures 2025 ROR GTU Championship

3. Geovanni Cruz (21)

Rocky View Family Dental – Amateur GTO

Bohling leads Amateur GTO race. Photo By: Kelly Vernell

The Amateur GTO championship came down to the wire at PPIR, with John Evans (154) entering the final round as the points leader but still needing a strong finish to lock down the season title.

When the lights went out, it was Robert Brown (41) who grabbed the holeshot, leading the opening laps with a tightly packed group in pursuit. Just 0.9 seconds separated the top four early on, with Justin Bohling (954) applying relentless pressure on Brown, Evans close behind in third, and Phil Takahashi (807) tucked in the fight.

By the next lap, Bohling made his intentions clear, executing a decisive pass on Brown to take over the lead. Evans followed suit shortly after, slipping past Brown as well and setting his sights on Bohling.

The championship leader pushed hard, but Bohling managed the gap brilliantly, maintaining a 2.5-second cushion as the laps wound down. Meanwhile, Takahashi found his rhythm and made his move on Brown to claim the final podium spot.

At the checkered flag, it was Justin Bohling (954) with a determined victory, fending off Evans’ pursuit. Evans crossed the line in second place, which was enough to secure the 2025 Amateur GTO Championship, while Takahashi rounded out the podium in third.

Race Results – Rocky View Family Dental Amateur GTO

Takahashi 3rd place, Evans 2nd place, Bohling 1st place. Photo by: Chandler Dahl

1. Justin Bohling (954)

2. John Evans (154) – Secures 2025 Amateur GTO Championship

3. Phil Takahashi (807)

Season Wrap-Up

Round 5 at PPIR delivered everything a season finale should — close racing, decisive passes, and championship drama across the board. Cunha, Walker, and Bohling each earned statement victories in their respective races, while Hendry, Rizzo, and Evans emerged as the newly crowned 2025 champions.

The MRA’s 2025 season highlighted not only the depth of competition in the paddock, but also the passion and determination of its riders. With momentum carrying into the offseason, the stage is already set for an exciting 2026 campaign.

EWC: Bridgestone-Backed YART Yamaha Team Wins 2025 Title

Mathilde Gasnier

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September 24, 2025

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EWC: Bridgestone-Backed YART Yamaha Team Wins 2025 Title

The Bridgestone-backed YART Yamaha team has won the 2025 FIM Endurance World Championship (EWC) title on Bridgestone BATTLAX tires. This marks the fifth consecutive EWC championship and the sixth overall for a Bridgestone-supported team.

Here are a few highlights from the 2025 season:

YART Yamaha secured the championship title by taking second place at the Bol d’Or season finale at the Circuit Paul Richard in Le Castellet, France, on September 20-21, 2025.
The top four teams in the final championship standings were all equipped with Bridgestone BATTLAX tires, a testament to the tires’ performance and durability.
The 2025 championship saw Bridgestone increase its role as sole tire supplier to five EWC teams.

The FIM EWC is the ultimate test of durability and performance, with races lasting anywhere from eight to 24 hours. Bridgestone’s motorcycle racing program serves as a “mobile laboratory,” with the innovations and technology refined under the extreme conditions of endurance racing directly informing the development of consumer motorcycle tires for the street.

British Talent Cup: American Raymond Jr P8 & P10 at Assen

Mathilde Gasnier

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September 24, 2025

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British Talent Cup: American Raymond Jr P8 & P10 at Assen

American rider Joshua Raymond Jr finished 10th on his Fibretec Honda by Mlav Racing during British Talent Cup Race 1 Saturday at TT Circuit Assen, in the Netherlands.

Raymond Jr placed 8th in Sunday’s Race 2.

RACE 1 British Talent Cup

RACE 2 British Talent Cup

More from a news release issued by Joshua Raymond Sr:

Overall Josh Jr had a great weekend overcoming some bad luck at a new Circuit.

After only having 12 laps from FP1 another rider crashed into Josh in the first lap of FP2. The team worked hard but could only get Josh back out for 1 lap.
Without much time on a new circuit Josh was able to qualify P14 on the grid.

Race 1 went great. Josh Jr quickly went from P14 to P10 before the race ended because of rain.

Race 2 was declared a wet race. Josh Jr went from P10 to P8 and was looking to move into P7 before the race was ended early because of a red flag.

Racing at such and iconic circuit is very exciting. Josh had a very strong weekend after have some bad luck. He stayed calm and kept his head in the race after some tough circumstances limited his chances to learn a new track. The pace at the front is so much faster than last season and the top 10 in BTC are just blisteringly fast this year.

Josh Jr: “I feel great about my results. My lap times in both races were more than fast enough to run at the front. I can ride fast in wet or dry conditions, so the rain didn’t matter much to me. It was missing FP2 that was a set back for me this weekend since this was a track that I had never been to. My confidence is still very high as we head to Oulton Park in 2 weeks.”

Taking Kids Racing, Part 6: Top 11 You Are Doing It Wrong If…

John Ulrich

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September 24, 2025

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Taking Kids Racing, Part 6: Top 11 You Are Doing It Wrong If…

Taking Your Kid Racing:

Top 11 You’re Doing It Wrong If…

By John Ulrich

11. Your behavior detracts from the positive attention your kid has earned by racing.

10. You don’t have comprehensive medical insurance or group coverage for your kid.

9. You’re spending money you don’t have—such as going racing instead of paying the rent or mortgage—and are betting on your kid becoming a successful and wealthy professional motorcycle racer.

8. Your kid thinks that responsibility for your family’s future financial well being rides on his or her young shoulders.

7. Your kid isn’t attending school and hasn’t earned (and isn’t going to earn) at least a high school diploma.

6. Your kid has no Plan B in case his or her dream of becoming a well-paid motorcycle racer does not work out.

5. Your kid isn’t willing to behave at home and do well in school as a condition of being able to race.

4. Going motorcycle racing is not the most fun your kid can imagine, and is not your kid’s favorite family activity.

3. You’re yelling at your kid in the paddock, and/or your kid is crying as the result of something you said or did at the races.

2. Your kid believes that your support and love for them is conditional on good racetrack results.

1. Your kid is racing with an injury that affects his or her judgment or ability to control their motorcycle.

Melissa Paris (13) was already a young adult when this photo was taken during a USGPRU 250 GP race during the same CCS weekend at Summit Point. She started on her own and had to do everything for herself, but didn't face the kind of parental pressure that derails many racing kids. She is now a MotoAmerica racer and team owner. Photo by etechphoto.com. — Melissa Paris (13) was already a young adult when this photo was taken during a USGPRU 250 GP race during the same CCS weekend at Summit Point. She started on her own and had to do everything for herself, but didn’t face the kind of parental pressure that derails many racing kids. She is now a MotoAmerica racer and team owner. Photo by etechphoto.com.

MotoGP: Preview Of The Motul Grand-Prix of Japan

Mathilde Gasnier

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September 24, 2025

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MotoGP: Preview Of The Motul Grand-Prix of Japan

Marc Marquez marches towards history at Motegi. The #93 is on the cusp of the greatest comeback ever made as MotoGP™ touches down in Japan.

More than 2000 days after he was last crowned MotoGP World Champion, Marc Marquez (Ducati Lenovo Team) is on the cusp of taking back the throne. Since that day in 2019, when he celebrated his sixth MotoGP title, there have been multiple surgeries, three different injuries, two changes of team and one change of factory. For some, the question was not when he’d get back to the top, but if. As we head into the 2025 Motul Grand Prix of Japan, that question has had resounding answer after resounding answer. On the verge of the greatest comeback in sporting history, it’s now almost a formality: 185 points clear means 2025 World Champion. On the way in, he’s on 182. So it’ll be Sunday if he does it…

THE FINAL STAND: Alex Marquez sole remaining rival

The only rider who can now deny Marc Marquez that crown is Alex Marquez. The only other rider to have won more than one Grand Prix this year and enjoying his best season ever – earning himself a factory bike at BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP for 2026 too – the #73 shouldn’t be overlooked. He’s also a fan of Motegi, having taken his very first GP win in Japan in 2013, although in MotoGP he’s had some bad luck and trouble. Aside from being the only remaining rival for the MotoGP crown, he can also take his own title: that of Best Independent Team rider. Currently 150 points ahead in that standing, the magic number is more than 185 – 185 exactly isn’t quite enough.

THE FIGHT FOR THIRD: Bagnaia vs Bezzecchi?

It’s VR46 Academy friendly fire in the battle for P3 as it stands. Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) – who did the double here last year – is now just eight points ahead of Marco Bezzecchi (Aprilia Racing), and the momentum appears to be going the way of the latter in 2025. But Motegi could shake that up again and it could prove chance for Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) to make some gains.The Spaniard is now 41 points off Bez, but last year was a headliner in Japan, even if he didn’t convert that pole in the end. This year, he’s no rookie. Fellow KTMs Brad Binder (Red bull KTM Factory Racing), Enea Bastianini (Red Bull KTM Tech3) and his teammate Maverick Viñales, the latter still recovering from his shoulder injury, could be ones to watch too as the RC16 has a solid CV in Japan.

Further up the table though, Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team pairing of Franco Morbidelli and Fabio Di Giannantonio are hot on Acosta’s tail – and they’re split by a single point. Can they make inroads into the battle ahead and gain on the #37 – or even more – as the unpredictable flyways begin? Another rider looking to make ground up is reigning Champion Jorge Martin (Aprilia Racing) – although down the order, he’s now starting to make life complicated for those ahead of him as he gets back in the groove and learns his way around the RS-GP.

DEBUTANT vs DIABLO: another dynamic in the standings

Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) would probably be the first hand up if there was a vote on rewarding points for qualifying. The Frenchman was back on the front row at Misano but then having a tougher time once the lights went out, something he and Yamaha continue to work on. He’ll be an interesting watch at Motegi, where hard braking is the name of the game. Fermin Aldeguer (BK8 Gresini Racing MotoGP), meanwhile, is still a few points ahead of the #20 as he looks to move forward again, and he’ll have an eye on fellow rookie Ai Ogura (Trackhouse MotoGP Team) as the Japanese rider races on home turf for the first time in MotoGP. He’s in form and will want to keep the upper hand on teammate Raul Fernandez – as well as make a big impression on home turf. That’s true of plenty of riders gearing up to battle on Honda and Yamaha home ground.

HOME GLORY: Honda vs Yamaha

Quartararo will be looking to lead Yamaha’s charge, and teammate Alex Rins and Prima Pramac Yamaha MotoGP pairing Jack Miller and Miguel Oliveira will have plenty of motivation on factory home turf – and at Honda’s own track. Miller has won at Motegi with Ducati in a lights-to-flag masterclass and will want to underline Yamaha’s faith in him. Oliveira likely wants to show them what they’re missing out on next year. Somkiat Chantra (Idemitsu Honda LCR) will want another point. And there’s a whole extra squabble to settle for the Hondas leading the way, with some interesting dynamics.

Johann Zarco (Castrol Honda LCR) is top Honda, in the top ten in the Championship, and signed up into the new regulations in 2027. Luca Marini (Honda HRC Castrol) is making some serious strides as his form continues to impress on his return from mid-season injury. Teammate Joan Mir continues to try and escape bad luck and will want to prove a point on home Honda turf. And then there’s wildcard Takaaki Nakagami – making it two Japanese riders on the grid at Motegi for the first time in a few years. Everyone has a point to prove and what better place than Honda’s very own track?

MotoGP is about to witness history made in its ranks as Marc Marquez targets MotoGP title number seven. History bigger than the sport – so tune in for the Motul Grand Prix of Japan to see if the #93 can get back on top of the world 2184 days later.

Moto2™: Gonzalez holds the cards as crucial stretch begins in Japan

Manuel Gonzalez (left) and Diogo Moreira (right). Photo courtesy Dorna.

39 points. That’s the lead that Manuel Gonzalez (LIQUI MOLY Dynavolt Intact GP) holds heading to the Japanese Grand Prix this weekend, as the Moto2 title race enters its crucial and unpredictable phase: the flyaway stretch.

Gonzalez’s P6 was nothing to shout from the Misano hills about, but it could prove to be a very important 10 points. It meant Diogo Moreira’s (Italtrans Racing Team) P4 only bought the Brazilian three points, but the same applies when you flip over the coin – those three points might just come in very handy. Moreira and Aron Canet (Fantic Racing Lino Sonego) now sit level on 188 points apiece vs Gonzalez’s 227 after Canet’s P7 last time out, and as we land in Japan, a circuit where Gonzalez collected his debut Moto2 win last year, the duo need the championship momentum pendulum to swing back in their favour.

Barry Baltus’ (Fantic Racing Lino Sonego) brilliant Misano P2 sees the Belgian lie just 15 points further back from his teammate and Moreira, so let’s not completely rule Baltus out of the equation either. That’s now five P2 results in 2025, surely that maiden win is around the corner?

After his Catalan GP podium, 2024 Japanese GP polesitter Jake Dixon (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team) failed to score points in Misano, which allowed race winner Celestino Vietti (Beta Tools SpeedRS Team) to close the gap between the two leading Boscoscuro riders to 11 points. While both look out of realistic title contention, those are two riders who could have a serious say in how the rest of the year plays out – and that goes for star rookie Daniel Holgado(CFMOTO Inde Aspar Team) also. The #27 has three podiums in his last four, and looks set to clinch Rookie of the Year honours.

So here we go then. Japan, Indonesia, Australia, and Malaysia, before returning to Europe for the final two. Will Gonzalez remain in charge over the coming weeks, or will Moreira, Canet, and maybe even Baltus reel in the Spaniard?

Moto3™: Rueda in charge as championship chase arrives at Motegi

Moto3 riders at Misano. Photo courtesy Dorna.

Was that last lap, last corner move on Maximo Quiles (CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team) for victory in Misano the moment where Jose Antonio Rueda (Red Bull KTM Ajo) placed one hand on the Moto3 championship trophy? It could well be because as we head to Japan, the #99 leads the way by a commanding 78 points.

Angel Piqueras (FRINSA – MT Helmets – MSI) remains Rueda’s closest rival, but after a P5 on a circuit where he won as a rookie in 2024, losing 14 points was a hammer blow. However, it’s not done yet of course as 150 points remain up for grabs, but Piqueras needs a big swing in points and momentum soon before it’s too late, starting in Motegi.

Quiles’ seventh podium of 2025 sees the rookie sit P3 overall, 29 points away from Piqueras and 16 ahead of David Muñoz (LIQUI MOLY Dynavolt Intact GP). The #28 will be tasting the upcoming circuits for the first time, but that hasn’t exactly been a concern so far, has it?

Elsewhere, Adrian Fernandez’s (Leopard Racing) first podium since Argentina was a very timely one for the Spaniard, who lies one place behind Joel Kelso(LEVELUP – MTA) in the standings after the Australian returned to form in Misano. Kelso is now only 10 points adrift of Alvaro Carpe (Red Bull KTM Ajo), so the battle for a top five championship finish is heating up nicely.

Meanwhile, Taiyo Furusato (Honda Team Asia) and Ryusei Yamanaka(FRINSA – MT Helmets – MSI) are the Moto3 home heroes this weekend, so can they return to the podium fight after missing out in Misano? The Japanese faithful will certainly be hoping so.

Can Rueda be stopped, or is his march to the 2025 crown going to continue in Japan? We’re about to find out.

MotoAmerica: Superbike Heads To New Jersey

Mathilde Gasnier

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September 23, 2025

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MotoAmerica: Superbike Heads To New Jersey

Bobby Fong, Cameron Beaubier Or Josh Herrin? Who Will Be Crowned at New Jersey Motorsports Park?

IRVINE, CA (September 23, 2025) – Three riders will go into the MotoAmerica finale at New Jersey Motorsports Park this weekend with a chance to leave the Garden State with the 2025 Superbike Championship.

Attack Performance Progressive Yamaha Racing’s Bobby Fong leads the way, eight points clear of Tytlers Cycle Racing’s Cameron Beaubier, and 22 points ahead of Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati’s Josh Herrin. With the New Jersey round a tripleheader, there are 75 points on the table. Fong’s teammate Jake Gagne is fourth, 77 points behind, so the title will go to one of the three.

If history means anything in this case, it’s worth noting that five-time champion Beaubier (2015, 2016, 2018, 2019, and 2020) and two-time champ Herrin (2013 and 2024) already have Superbike titles on their résumés, while Fong (2019) has a MotoAmerica Supersport title. Beaubier has 70 Superbike wins to his credit, Herrin has 22 and Fong has 10.

As for 2025, Fong heads into the season finale with five Superbike victories. Ditto for Beaubier. Herrin leads the way with six wins in 2025. As for podiums, Fong and Beaubier are both tied with 13 top-three finishes out of 17 races. Herrin has 11 podiums.

Bobby Fong (50). Photo by Brian J. Nelson.

Fong leads the championship as the series heads to New Jersey because he’s not only won five times and has 13 podiums, but he is also the only one of the three to score points in every single round. Beaubier and Herrin each have a no-score on their dance cards.

Three disastrous races in a row at VIRginia International Raceway and Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course put Herrin on his back foot heading into the most recent round at Circuit of The Americas a week and a half ago. The defending champion led the title chase before those three disastrous races but slipped to third at the end of the three races. Herrin, however, kept his hopes alive with a victory and a third-place finish in the two races in Texas. He’s on the outside looking in.

Cameron Beaubier (6) at COTA. Photo by Brian J Nelson.

Beaubier’s only non-finish was his crash in race two at Road America. He’s put himself within striking distance of Fong with two wins and a second-place finish in the past three races.

While all three hummed the same tune about being happy that the series finale is at New Jersey Motorsports Park, they also know that NJMP is synonymous with “anything can happen.” We’ve seen it all there: heat, rain, wind… and perfect racing weather. It’s unpredictable, and that’s what makes it a fan favorite and the perfect place for the series finale.

With Gagne a comfortable fourth in the championship, the battle for fifth will go to the bitter end.

Sean Dylan Kelly (40). Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA.

Vision Wheel M4 ECSTAR Suzuki’s Sean Dylan Kelly holds the spot after his solid fifth/fourth weekend at COTA. Kelly is seven points ahead of Real Steel Honda’s JD Beach. With his pair of sixth-place finishes at COTA, Beach also wrapped up the Superbike Cup for those racing Stock 1000-spec motorcycles in the Superbike class. Those two sixths at COTA resulted in two more Superbike Cup victories for Beach.

The rider who suffered the most at COTA was Kelly’s Vision Wheel M4 ECSTAR Suzuki teammate Richie Escalante. Escalante had fourth place in the bag in race one when his Suzuki failed him on the final lap. In race two, he had another mechanical failure, this one early in the race.

With zero points scored, Escalante slid from fifth to seventh in the point standings. He trails Beach by seven points and Kelly by nine points with the three races at NJMP on the horizon.

JD Beach (95). Photo by Brian J. Nelson.

Beach’s Real Steel Honda teammate Hayden Gillim was fourth and seventh in the two COTA races and he sits eighth in the title chase – 15 points behind Escalante and 49 points ahead of Jones Honda rider Ashton Yates.

Aftercare Scheibe Racing’s Danilo Lewis is one point behind Yates and one point ahead of Flo4Law Racing’s Benjamin Smith, with BPR Yamaha’s Bryce Kornbau another three points behind in the battle for 10^th in the championship.

Pre-NJMP Notes…

Josh Herrin and Loris Baz split wins in last year’s Superbike series finale. Herrin beat Bobby Fong by .403 of a second with Baz third in race one. In the wet race two, Baz topped Sean Dylan Kelly by .151 of a second with Fong third, just .291 of a second behind. Cameron Beaubier finished fourth in both races a year ago.

Loris Baz earned pole position for the two Superbike races a year ago, with the Frenchman lapping a 1:22.737 on the 2.250-mile racetrack. Cameron Beaubier and Brandon Paasch joined Baz on the front row.

If Bobby Fong comes out of NJMP with the MotoAmerica Superbike Championship, he will be the 23^rd different rider to win an AMA Superbike title in the 49 years of the series.

Cameron Beaubier’s win in race two at COTA was the 70^th Superbike victory of his career, and that puts him 12 wins behind all-time AMA Superbike winner Mat Mladin, who has 82 victories.

Beaubier owns the Superbike lap record at NJMP with his 1:19.806 coming in 2020.

Although it all depends on the results from this weekend’s three Superbike races at New Jersey Motorsports Park, the 2025 Superbike Championship will likely rank in the top three of close Superbike title chases in the MotoAmerica era. The closest finish thus far comes from the first season of MotoAmerica with Cameron Beaubier topping his Yamaha teammate Josh Hayes by just four points. In 2019, Beaubier beat Toni Elias for the crown by five points. The next closest is from 2022 when Jake Gagne won his second title by 20 points.

OrangeCat Racing riders Jayson Uribe (No. 36) and Andrew Lee (No. 14). Photo by: Brian J. Nelson — OrangeCat Racing riders Jayson Uribe (36) and Andrew Lee (14). Photo by: Brian J. Nelson

OrangeCat Racing’s Andrew Lee and Jayson Uribe will join the Superbike grid at NJMP after the pair recently wrapped up a highly successful Stock 1000 season that saw Lee take the title with Uribe third. The pair’s Stock 1000-spec BMW M 1000 RRs have been upgraded to almost full Superbike spec, with aftermarket swingarms, rear shocks, and triple clamps, and the duo stayed in Texas after the MotoAmerica round to test the bikes at COTA. Lee will run #67 on his BMW with Uribe using his familiar #36.

About MotoAmerica:

MotoAmerica is North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series. Established in 2014, MotoAmerica is home to the AMA Superbike Championship as well as additional classes including Supersport, Stock 1000, Twins Cup, Talent Cup, Super Hooligan National Championship, and King Of The Baggers. MotoAmerica is an affiliate of KRAVE Group LLC, a partnership including three-time 500cc World Champion, two-time AMA Superbike Champion, and AMA Hall of Famer Wayne Rainey; ex-racer and former manager of Team Roberts Chuck Aksland; motorsports marketing executive Terry Karges; and businessman Richard Varner. For more information, please visit www.MotoAmerica.com, and MotoAmerica’s social platforms on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and YouTube. To watch all things MotoAmerica, subscribe to MotoAmerica’s live streaming and video on-demand service, MotoAmerica Live+

Indian’s Tyler O’Hara Sets Record at Bonneville Salt Flats

Mathilde Gasnier

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September 23, 2025

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Indian’s Tyler O’Hara Sets Record at Bonneville Salt Flats

Since 1901, racing has been core to Indian Motorcycle’s DNA — a legacy defined by visionaries like Burt Munro on the Bonneville Salt Flats. Carrying that spirit forward, Indian Motorcycle, in partnership with S&S Cycle and Mission Foods, set out to Bonneville to see just how fast its King of the Baggers race bike could go. Piloted by Indian Wrecking Crew Rider and two-time King of the Baggers Champion Tyler O’Hara, the S&S-built Indian Challenger charged across the legendary Salt Flats — celebrating history and the timeless pursuit of speed.

United by passion and precision, S&S and Indian Motorcycle Racing brought decades of race-proven engineering to one of motorsports’ most iconic proving grounds. While knocking on the door of 200 mph, O’Hara honored the legends who came before him with a new AMA 2000cc APS-AG record at 194.384 mph (previous record from 1972: 169.828 mph on a Triumph by J. Angerer).

Please see below for an epic docu-style video from Indian Motorcycle Racing’s land speed runs on the Bonneville Salt Flats.

NHRA Charlotte 4-Wide: Gadson Wins, Takes Championship Lead

Mathilde Gasnier

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September 23, 2025

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NHRA Charlotte 4-Wide: Gadson Wins, Takes Championship Lead

Sharp riding and consistent performance from his RevZilla/Motul/Vance & Hines Suzuki Gen 3 Hayabusa propelled Richard Gadson to his third race win of the season and into the NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle Countdown to the Championship lead at the NHRA 4-Wide Carolina Nationals at zMax Dragway in Concord, NC, on Sunday.

Race Highlights:

Richard Gadson qualified second, won his third race of the season and moved to the top of the Countdown to the Championship playoff standings
Gaige Herrera qualified first and advanced to the first round of eliminations

In the second of three back-to-back races to open the six-race NHRA Countdown to the Championship, Richard Gadson qualified second with a 6.760-second/200.26 mph run during Friday’s qualification rounds.

Under the NHRA’s unique 4-Wide racing format in Charlotte, which featured for the first time ever during the Countdown at this race, the first two riders in each four-motorcycle quad to cross the finish line, barring a redlight jumpstart, advance to the next elimination round. In the final round quad, the first motorcycle to cross the finish line wins the race.

Gadson powered to a win in round one with a 6.796-second/199.88 mph run in a matchup against John Hall (runner up, 6.817 seconds/199.11 mph), Ryan Oehler and Chris Bostick. In the semi-final round, Gadson’s 6.809-second/198.99 mph pass was low elapsed time of the round in his victory over Matt Smith (runner up, 6.821 seconds/198.20 mph), Kelly Clontz, and Hall.

In the final round, Gadson defeated Matt Smith (runner up, 6.821 seconds/199.37 mph), Angie Smith and Jianna Evaristo with a 6.803-second/199.55 mph run to claim his third race win of the season.

The victory, which is also the third of his career and first to come during the Countdown, catapulted Gadson from fourth place to the top of the championship standings with four races remaining.

“You really need to understand how staging works in 4-Wide racing. It can throw some people off, which we saw in the first two rounds. The Christmas tree timer starts seven seconds after the first bike lights the stage bulb, not the last one. In the final round, Angie pre-staged first and then immediately lit the stage bulb, so I counted to five in my head and then got on the two-step. When the tree came down I was the first one off the starting line, and we won the race,” Gadson said.

“I lost to Matt by four-thousands of a second at the 4-Wide race here earlier this year and he beat me near my hometown last week in Maple Grove, so I really wanted to beat him today in his hometown. I feel great about this win because we’ve been wrestling with this motorcycle all weekend. But we fought through it as a team. I even had to borrow a clutch from Gaige’s bike,” he continued. “It’s surreal to see my name leading the points in Pro Stock Motorcycle. Just to be here in this moment feels crazy, to be honest. I thank everyone on the Vance & Hines team for putting me in this position.”

Gaige Herrera claimed No. 1 qualifier in Charlotte before an early-round mechanical issue ended his day. Photo courtesy Suzuki Motor USA

After dropping out of the points lead last week at the Countdown opener in Maple Grove, Gaige Herrera rebounded to claim the top qualifying position for the sixth time this year and 29th time in his career with a 6.757-second/201.22 mph run on Friday.

But trouble struck the defending world champion early in Sunday eliminations when his motorcycle experienced a transmission-related mechanical failure that caused him to slow to a 7.370-second/141.31 mph run in his first-round matchup against Marc Ingwersen, Chase Van Sant and Marcus Hylton.

The unexpected early departure dropped Herrera to fourth in the Countdown standings and leaves the two-time champion with a 71-point gap to close in his quest for a third-straight Pro Stock Motorcycle world championship.

“In the first round my transmission shifted from second to fourth and then after that it wouldn’t shift at all. I did everything I could, but it’s one of those things you just need to shake off and move forward. I’m glad Richard got the win over Matt Smith, but I’m definitely asking for my clutch back,” Herrera quipped. “The drag racing gods weren’t on my side today, but we still have plenty of races left in the Countdown, and I’m not letting up. It’s going to be a dog fight until the end, and honestly, I love that. I’d rather it be tight than a landslide. We might be banking on the extra points at the last race in Pomona.”

RevZilla/Motul/Vance & Hines Suzuki crew chief Andrew Hines praised Gadson’s poise on the starting line in the face of a three-against-one disadvantage to rivals from the Matt Smith Racing team in the final round.

“Matt had the field stacked and they tried to play the game with riders staging at different times to throw Richard off, but he was rock solid. We came here to bring home a Wally, and it doesn’t really matter to our team which rider does it. Sometimes gremlins bite you, but when one rider falters, another one can step up. It’s great that Richard was able to do that, and it’s a big momentum swing for him in the Countdown. It’s a little bump in the road for Gaige, but we’re in a better position in the standings overall as a team than we were leaving here last year, so we’re not feeling too bad. Our whole team is motivated to take it one run at a time, so we’ll get back on the horse and keep it going in St. Louis next week.”

With four races remaining in the Countdown to the Championship, Gadson and Herrera sit first and fourth in the standings, with 2,296 and 2,225 points, respectively.

For the latest Suzuki team news, race reports, and information visit SuzukiCycles.com/Racing/Drag-Racing

FIM Sidecar: Payne and Rousseau Extend Championship Lead At Assen

Mathilde Gasnier

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September 23, 2025

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FIM Sidecar: Payne and Rousseau Extend Championship Lead At Assen

Reigning champions Harrison Payne (ARS Yamaha) and Kevin Rousseau extended their advantage at the front of the 2025 FIM Sidecar World Championship with another overall victory – their fourth of the season – as the series made a repeat visit to the famous TT Circuit Assen in the Netherlands for round six last weekend (20-21 September).

FIM Sidecar World Championship returns to Assen for round six
Defending champions Harrison Payne and Kevin Rousseau extend series lead
British brothers Sam and Thomas Christie consolidate second in series

The British/French pairing have been the dominant force in this year’s championship, but a mechanical DNF at the opening round at Le Mans and a second no-score due to a technical issue at round four at Most have prevented them from breaking free from the chasing pack and, as a result, their series lead stands at twenty-three points with just next month’s final round at Oschersleben in Germany left on the calendar.

Giving a good indication of how close the racing was going to be in the ‘Cathedral of Speed’, just 0.127 covered the first three crews in qualifying with British brothers Sam and Thomas Christie (LCR Yamaha) – who sit second in the standings – on top chased by the Swiss/German pairing of Markus Schlosser (LCR Yamaha) and Luca Schmidt with Payne/Rousseau third.

With the track still wet following a huge downpour, Schlosser/Schmidt led Saturday’s ten-lap Sprint race into the opening turn from Payne/Rousseau and the Christie brothers, but an early spin in the chicane by the leaders dropped them back to seventh, handing the advantage to the defending champions.

Hugely experienced Finnish rider Pekka Päivärinta (ARS Yamaha) – with Adam Christie, the third of the Christie brothers in action, in the chair – was revelling in the wet conditions and after passing the Christie brothers he turned his attention to Payne/Rousseau. The British pairing of Lewis Blackstock (LCR Yamaha) and Oscar Lawrence – who were making their second championship appearance this season as wild cards – also moved into contention after passing the Christie brothers.

Harrison Payne and Kevin Rousseau (1) at 2025 FIM Sidecar World Championship - Assen (NED). Photo credit Mark Walters — Harrison Payne and Kevin Rousseau (1) at 2025 FIM Sidecar World Championship – Assen (NED). Photo credit Mark Walters

Following a decisive pass for the lead, Päivärinta/Christie cruised clear to win by almost eight seconds from Payne/Rousseau with Blackstock/Lawrence third ahead of the Christie brothers and Britain’s Sam and Jack Laidlow (LCR Yamaha) with Schlosser/Schmidt unable to advance from seventh.

With the sun shining for Sunday’s sixteen-lap Main race, Payne/Rousseau led from the start with Schlosser/Schmidt, the Christie brothers, Blackstock/Lawrence, former champions Todd Ellis (Yamaha) and Emmanuelle Clement and Päivärinta/Christie in pursuit.

Carrying momentum from the previous day, Päivärinta/Christie moved up to fourth with the British/French pairing of Ellis/Clement following them past Blackstock/Lawrence, but the wild cards fought their way back into podium contention.

In the closing stages Schlosser/Schmidt got close enough to attempt a pass on Payne/Rousseau for the lead, although ran wide which allowed the Christie brothers through into second and the positions remained unchanged until the chequered flag came out.

Blackstock/Lawrence were a solid fourth from Päivärinta/Christie with the Laidlow brothers sixth ahead of Ellis/Clement.

Focus now shifts to the Motorsport Arena Oschersleben in central Germany on 3-5 October for the seventh and concluding round.

Royal Enfield’s One Ride 2025 Unites Riders Globally

Mathilde Gasnier

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September 23, 2025

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Royal Enfield’s One Ride 2025 Unites Riders Globally

Now in its 14th edition, this iconic annual ride brings together a vibrant and diverse community of Royal Enfield owners and riders from around the world to celebrate their camaraderie and shared passion for Pure Motorcycling.

One Ride celebrates the simple, accessible joy of motorcycling that connects riders across cultures, ages, and backgrounds through shared passion for authentic riding experiences and individual self-expression.

This Sunday, the world rode as one for the 14th edition of Royal Enfield’s One Ride. The ride offers the global Royal Enfield community an opportunity to get together and be on the saddle on One Day, witnessing the scale of the incredible camaraderie. This year saw more than 40,000 riders across 1,500 rides in 60+ countries ride in unison, making the ride one of the largest annual celebrations of motorcycling seen anywhere in the world. Serving as a remarkable testimony to Royal Enfield’s philosophy of ‘Pure Motorcycling’, the ride began with the first sunrise in the East continuing until the last sunset in the West, creating a true 24-hour global celebration spanning all time zones.

Every year, One Ride brings together a diverse and passionate community of riders and enthusiasts – from first-time riders to seasoned adventurers — who come together to celebrate individuality, self-expression, and the shared joy of the open road. The ride showcases the strength of the world’s most passionate organic motorcycling community — one that spans continents yet feels intimate, where strangers become lifelong riding companions through their shared love of Pure Motorcycling.

Ride together : Royal Enfield's one ride 2025 unites riders from Chennai to California for a common cause. Photo courtesy Royal Enfield. — Ride together : Royal Enfield’s one ride 2025 unites riders from Chennai to California for a common cause. Photo courtesy Royal Enfield.

While united in spirit, this year the helmets were more than just gear as riders celebrated their individuality through personalized helmets, custom motorcycle modifications, and unique riding gear, transforming essential safety equipment into powerful canvases of personal stories and creativity.

Beyond celebration, One Ride championed responsible motorcycling through curated safe routes, community mentorship, and initiatives like Helmets for India, ensuring every rider returns home safely to ride another day.

One Ride has grown exponentially since its debut in 2011, witnessing merely 14 countries and 23 Indian cities participating in this annual celebration. The 2024 edition achieved record participation with 41,730 riders across 66 countries, while 2025 maintained a similar scale with 40,000+ riders across 60+ countries.

About Royal Enfield :

The oldest motorcycle brand in continuous production, Royal Enfield has created beautifully crafted motorcycles since 1901. From its British roots, a manufacturing plant was established in Madras in 1955, a foothold from which Royal Enfield spearheaded the growth of India’s mid-sized two-wheeler segment. Royal Enfields are engaging, uncomplicated, accessible and fun to ride; a vehicle for exploration and self-expression. It’s an approach the brand calls Pure Motorcycling.

Royal Enfield’s premium line-up includes Bear 650, Classic 650, Guerrilla 450 modern roadster, Hunter 350, Meteor 350, Super Meteor 650, Interceptor 650 and Continental GT 650 twins, the Shotgun 650, the Himalayan 450, the Scram 440 ADV Crossover, the iconic Bullet 350, Classic 350 and Goan Classic 350. The company recently unveiled its new city+ motorcycle brand – the Flying Flea – a fresh take on urban mobility, blending authentic design with advanced technology.

Riders and a passionate community are fostered with a rich profusion of events at a local, regional and international level. Most notable are Motoverse (previously Rider Mania), an annual gathering of thousands of Royal Enfield enthusiasts in Goa, and Himalayan Odyssey; a yearly pilgrimage over some of the toughest terrain and highest mountain passes.

A division of Eicher Motors Limited, Royal Enfield operates through more than 2000 stores across all major cities and towns in India and through nearly 850 stores in more than 60 countries around the globe. Royal Enfield also has two world-class technical centres, in Bruntingthorpe, UK, and in Chennai, India. The company’s two state-of-the-art production facilities are located at Oragadam and Vallam Vadagal, near Chennai. Across the world, Royal Enfield has six modern CKD assembly facilities in Bangladesh, Nepal, Brazil, Thailand, Argentina and Colombia.

MRA: Season Finale at Pikes Peak International Raceway

September 24, 2025

The Motorcycle Roadracing Association (MRA) concluded its 2025 championship season with an unforgettable Round 5 finale at Pikes Peak International Raceway (PPIR). With titles still undecided and championship points razor-thin, the tension was palpable as Colorado’s fastest road racers lined up for one last showdown.

Fay Myers – Race of the Rockies GTO

Coming into the finale, Brad Hendry (1) had dominated the season, winning all four previous rounds. But Matthew Cunha (95) was far from conceding, entering the weekend just 25 points behind and determined to deny Hendry a perfect sweep. Adding to the intensity was Justen Behmer (4), still in striking distance and eager to finish the season on a high note.

When the lights went out, Behmer rocketed off the line to grab the holeshot, leading the field into Turn 1 with Cunha, David Lambert (28), and Hendry in close pursuit. Hendry wasted no time moving forward, overtaking Lambert early to slot into third and setting his sights on the leaders.

Behmer held strong at the front for the first three laps until a near-crash in Turn 5 — saving the front end but losing crucial momentum. Cunha seized the opportunity, slipping past to take the lead and immediately building a one-second gap over the field.

As the laps clicked down, Hendry went on the attack, making a decisive move on Behmer to move into second and begin reeling in Cunha. Heavy lap traffic late in the race tightened the gap, setting up a thrilling final push. The pressure was relentless — at one point the leaders were separated by just 0.057 seconds — but Cunha remained composed, defending his lead through multiple challenges from the reigning champion.

Behind them, Lambert found late-race pace and made a decisive pass on Behmer to secure the final podium position.

When the checkered flag waved, it was Matthew Cunha (#95) taking a hard-earned victory, denying Hendry a perfect season and capping off the championship battle in style. Hendry crossed the line in second, with Lambert rounding out the podium in third. Despite finishing runner-up in the race, Hendry’s consistent dominance throughout the season secured him the 2025 Race of the Rockies GTO Championship.

Race Results – Fay Myers – Race of the Rockies GTO

1. Matthew Cunha (95)

2. Brad Hendry (1) – Secures 2025 ROR O Championship

3. David Lambert (28)

Apex Auto Glass – Race of the Rockies GTU

While the Race of the Rockies GTO championship came down to the wire, the Race of the Rockies GTU class entered Round 5 with Sal Rizzo (9) holding a commanding points lead. Still, the finale at PPIR was anything but predictable, with Jeremiah Walker (562) determined to finish the season on top.

When the lights went out, Walker launched off the line to grab the holeshot, immediately stretching a gap on the field. By mid-race, he had carved out a dominant 14-second lead, leaving Rizzo and Steven Racz (37) to battle behind him. Rizzo would eventually find an opportunity to pass Racz and executed with precision.

As Walker disappeared into the distance, the fight for the podium heated up. Geovanni Cruz (21) steadily reeled in Racz, closing the gap lap by lap before executing a clean pass through the carousel at Turn 5. Racz mounted a strong counterattack, but Cruz defended brilliantly, holding on to secure second place.

At the front, Walker remained untouchable, crossing the finish line with a commanding margin to claim the race victory. Behind him, Rizzo brought it home in second place — enough to secure the 2025 Race of the Rockies GTU Championship, rewarding his season-long consistency and speed. Cruz completed the podium in third after his decisive late-race move.

Race Results – ROR GTU (Apex Auto Glass – Race of the Rockies)

1. Jeremiah Walker (562)

2. Sal Rizzo (9) – Secures 2025 ROR GTU Championship

3. Geovanni Cruz (21)

Rocky View Family Dental – Amateur GTO

The Amateur GTO championship came down to the wire at PPIR, with John Evans (154) entering the final round as the points leader but still needing a strong finish to lock down the season title.

When the lights went out, it was Robert Brown (41) who grabbed the holeshot, leading the opening laps with a tightly packed group in pursuit. Just 0.9 seconds separated the top four early on, with Justin Bohling (954) applying relentless pressure on Brown, Evans close behind in third, and Phil Takahashi (807) tucked in the fight.

By the next lap, Bohling made his intentions clear, executing a decisive pass on Brown to take over the lead. Evans followed suit shortly after, slipping past Brown as well and setting his sights on Bohling.

The championship leader pushed hard, but Bohling managed the gap brilliantly, maintaining a 2.5-second cushion as the laps wound down. Meanwhile, Takahashi found his rhythm and made his move on Brown to claim the final podium spot.

At the checkered flag, it was Justin Bohling (954) with a determined victory, fending off Evans’ pursuit. Evans crossed the line in second place, which was enough to secure the 2025 Amateur GTO Championship, while Takahashi rounded out the podium in third.

Race Results – Rocky View Family Dental Amateur GTO

1. Justin Bohling (954)

2. John Evans (154) – Secures 2025 Amateur GTO Championship

3. Phil Takahashi (807)

Season Wrap-Up

Round 5 at PPIR delivered everything a season finale should — close racing, decisive passes, and championship drama across the board. Cunha, Walker, and Bohling each earned statement victories in their respective races, while Hendry, Rizzo, and Evans emerged as the newly crowned 2025 champions.

The MRA’s 2025 season highlighted not only the depth of competition in the paddock, but also the passion and determination of its riders. With momentum carrying into the offseason, the stage is already set for an exciting 2026 campaign.

EWC: Bridgestone-Backed YART Yamaha Team Wins 2025 Title

September 24, 2025

Marvin Fritz on his YART Yamaha YZF-R1. Photo courtesy EWC.

The Bridgestone-backed YART Yamaha team has won the 2025 FIM Endurance World Championship (EWC) title on Bridgestone BATTLAX tires. This marks the fifth consecutive EWC championship and the sixth overall for a Bridgestone-supported team.

Here are a few highlights from the 2025 season:

YART Yamaha secured the championship title by taking second place at the Bol d’Or season finale at the Circuit Paul Richard in Le Castellet, France, on September 20-21, 2025.
The top four teams in the final championship standings were all equipped with Bridgestone BATTLAX tires, a testament to the tires’ performance and durability.
The 2025 championship saw Bridgestone increase its role as sole tire supplier to five EWC teams.

The FIM EWC is the ultimate test of durability and performance, with races lasting anywhere from eight to 24 hours. Bridgestone’s motorcycle racing program serves as a “mobile laboratory,” with the innovations and technology refined under the extreme conditions of endurance racing directly informing the development of consumer motorcycle tires for the street.

British Talent Cup: American Raymond Jr P8 & P10 at Assen

September 24, 2025

American rider Joshua Raymond Jr. at TT Assen Circuit. Photo credit Romy Vonk / courtesy American rider Joshua Raymond Jr.

American rider Joshua Raymond Jr finished 10th on his Fibretec Honda by Mlav Racing during British Talent Cup Race 1 Saturday at TT Circuit Assen, in the Netherlands.

Raymond Jr placed 8th in Sunday’s Race 2.

RACE 1 British Talent Cup

RACE 2 British Talent Cup

More from a news release issued by Joshua Raymond Sr:

Overall Josh Jr had a great weekend overcoming some bad luck at a new Circuit.

After only having 12 laps from FP1 another rider crashed into Josh in the first lap of FP2. The team worked hard but could only get Josh back out for 1 lap.
Without much time on a new circuit Josh was able to qualify P14 on the grid.

Race 1 went great. Josh Jr quickly went from P14 to P10 before the race ended because of rain.

Race 2 was declared a wet race. Josh Jr went from P10 to P8 and was looking to move into P7 before the race was ended early because of a red flag.

Racing at such and iconic circuit is very exciting. Josh had a very strong weekend after have some bad luck. He stayed calm and kept his head in the race after some tough circumstances limited his chances to learn a new track. The pace at the front is so much faster than last season and the top 10 in BTC are just blisteringly fast this year.

Josh Jr: “I feel great about my results. My lap times in both races were more than fast enough to run at the front. I can ride fast in wet or dry conditions, so the rain didn’t matter much to me. It was missing FP2 that was a set back for me this weekend since this was a track that I had never been to. My confidence is still very high as we head to Oulton Park in 2 weeks.”

Taking Kids Racing, Part 6: Top 11 You Are Doing It Wrong If…

September 24, 2025

Jake Lewis (85), Hayden Gillim (69), and Miles Thornton (72) during a USGPRU Moriwaki Challenge Cup Powered by Honda race at Summit Point Raceway in 2008. Photo by etechphoto.com. — Jake Lewis (85) leads Hayden Gillim (69) and Miles Thornton (72) in a USGPRU Moriwaki Honda MD250H race during a CCS weekend at Summit Point in 2008. Winning on a Moriwaki paid $2,000 which was a lot of money for a young racer in 2008. The fact that all three made it to MotoAmerica and that two of the three are still racing in the MotoAmerica series--Lewis in Supersport, Hooligan and Baggers, Gillim in Superbike and Baggers--speaks volumes on how their parents supported them when they were racing as kids. Photo by etechphoto.com.