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WorldSBK: Bulega Best In FP2 At Misano (Updated)

Nicolo Bulega posted the best lap time during World Superbike Free Practice Two (FP2) Friday afternoon at Misano World Circuit – Marco Simoncelli, in San Marino. On board his Aruba.it Racing Ducati Panigale V4 R, the rookie sensation lapped the 2.6-mile (4.2 km) track in 1:33.511 to top the field of 24 riders.

Bulega’s teammate Alvaro Bautista, the two-time and defending World Champion, was the best of the rest at 1:33.913.

GYTR GRT Yamaha’s Remy Gardner was third overall and the top Yamaha man at 1:33.921.

Andrea Iannone was fourth with a 1:33.960 on his Team GoEleven Ducati.

Toprak Razgatlioglu crashed his ROKiT BMW Motorrad M 1000 RR during FP2 and ended up fifth with a 1:34.221, but his 1:33.448 from Free Practice One stood up as the fastest lap time of the day.

American Garrett Gerloff finished FP2 ranked 21st with a 1:35.137 on his Bonovo Action BMW.

 

WSBK FP2

 

 

 

More, from a press release issued by Dorna:

Razgatlioglu sets the pace at Misano despite a crash

 

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

Practice Highlights

Toprak Razgatlioglu (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) lost the final 25 minutes of Free Practice following a Turn 16 crash. Despite that the Turkish rider set the pace (1’33.448) on the opening day at Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli
 
Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) and teammate Alvaro Bautista were second and third fastest
 
Remy Gardner (GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) continues momentum from his Dutch Round podium with the fourth fastest time (1’34.462)
 
Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK riders Axel Bassani and Alex Lowes inside top ten despite focusing on race simulations in Free Practice 2
 
Razgatlioglu, Lowes and Bassani were the only riders inside the Top 10 not to improve their times from Free Practice 1 to Free Practice 2

P1 | Toprak Razgatlioglu | ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team

“Everything is okay. It was just a small crash and not a fast crash. I’m happy because the crash was before the race and I was able to understand something. For tomorrow I’m feeling strong and, in general, I’m very happy. We have a very good package for the race weekend and everything is going well.”

 

Nicolo Bulega (11). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Nicolo Bulega (11). Photo courtesy Dorna.

 

P2 | Nicolo Bulega | Aruba.it Racing – Ducati

“During FP1 I didn’t feel very comfortable on the bike. I had some issues with how the bike was. For FP2 my team did a great job but we have to find something more for tomorrow. In the last part of braking into the corner it is a bit difficult to stop the bike. The rear is still pushing a little bit but we improved the bike a lot from FP1 to FP2. I can expect to improve even more for tomorrow. It’s important that I know this track very well even if I don’t know it with a Superbike.”

 

Alvaro Bautista (1). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Alvaro Bautista (1). Photo courtesy Dorna.

 

P3 | Alvaro Bautista | Aruba.it Racing – Ducati

“Today was a bit strange. We started the morning trying the new front tyre from Pirelli but I didn’t have the right feeling in the braking area. The bike was struggling to stop and to get into the corner. In the end we went back to our standard front tyre but in the afternoon we tried the new rear tyre. Unfortunately, I didn’t feel the same feedback that I had in the test. The bike was exactly the same, but my feeling was different. It was more difficult for me so I asked the team to make some changes to help me with that. For the last exit I had used tyres and I did my best lap time even with 15 laps old tyres. To do a 1m33 is good.”

MotoAmerica: Jacobsen Leads Supersport FP1 At Brainerd

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

 

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

 

PJ Jacobsen led MotoAmerica Supersport Free Practice One (FP1) Friday morning at Brainerd International Raceway, in Brainerd, Minnesota. Riding his Rahal Ducati Moto w/XPEL Panigale V2 on Dunlop spec tires, Jacobsen covered the 2.5-mile course in 1:34.414 to lead the field of 35 riders.

Mathew Scholtz was second with a 1:34.710 on his Strack Racing Yamaha YZF-R6.

Tyler Scott turned a third-quickest 1:34.986 on his Vision Wheel M4 ECSTAR Suzuki GSX-R750.

With new EasyHealthPlans.com sponsorship on his TopPro Racing Suzuki GSX-R750, Maxi Gerardo was fourth with a 1:35.950.

Scott’s teammate Teagg Hobbs rounded out the top five with a 1:35.970.

 

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New MotoAmerica Talent Cup Joins “Road To MotoGP” Program

MotoAmerica Opens A New Chapter In Youth Road Racing With The 2025 MotoAmerica Talent Cup

Racers Aged 14 To 21 To Race Purpose-Built Moto3 Krämer Racebikes “On The Road To MotoGP”

IRVINE, CA (June 14, 2024) – MotoAmerica, North America’s premier road racing championship, is thrilled to announce a new path for America’s young road racers to reach the highest level of the sport as it is set to start a new chapter in American road racing in 2025 with the MotoAmerica Talent Cup. The MotoAmerica Talent Cup will be a part of the “Road To MotoGP” program.

The MotoAmerica Talent Cup takes the place of the current Junior Cup class at MotoAmerica’s Championship rounds with riders aged 14-21 doing battle on purpose-built Krämer racing motorcycles, which are race-ready and powered by 350cc KTM powerplants. The spec-racing class provides a better package for MotoAmerica’s young stars to hone their skills than the production-class motorcycles used in the Junior Cup class since 2018.

“We know racing high-performance motorcycles provides our young athletes more opportunities and better prepares them to race at higher levels on the ‘Road to MotoGP,’ ” said MotoAmerica President Wayne Rainey. “This is the first time MotoAmerica has created a class for our young riders that’s on the same performance-level bike as other ‘Road to MotoGP’ Talent Cups worldwide. MotoAmerica was founded on the very idea of racing Moto3-type motorcycles, and now we’re finally making that concept a reality. I’m really excited because up to five riders will get an invitation to participate in the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup selection. My MotoAmerica partners are also excited to provide our younger riders this opportunity.”

The MotoAmerica Talent Cup will consist of at least six events and one preseason test with one of those events to be held in conjunction with the 2025 Red Bull Grand Prix of The Americas at Circuit of The Americas in Austin, Texas.

The Krämer APX-350 MA makes over 50 horsepower and weighs under 255 pounds (115 kg) ready to race. The bike features a fully adjustable chassis and suspension and is managed by a Mectronik MKE5 racing ECU and the Krämer APX-350 MAs will be fitted with Dunlop tires. Full technical specs, details, and photos will be released in August.

“Krämer Motorcycles is proud to be the spec-bike supplier of the MotoAmerica Talent Cup and to help the next generation of American road racers on their path to the world stage,” said Jensen Beeler, CEO of Krämer Motorcycles USA. “Together with our partners in MotoAmerica, we believe we have created a machine that will elevate motorsport for American riders and be the tool that readies racers for the Red Bull Rookies Cup, FIM Moto3 World Championship, and beyond.”

“Like all of our motorcycles, the Krämer APX-350 MA is built with the single-minded purpose of winning on the racetrack, and without the compromises that come with a production-based machine,” said Markus Krämer, Founder of Krämer Motorcycles. “We believe this motorcycle is the ideal training platform for riders who are looking to advance to the international stage, and we will be proud to say one day that a World Champion started their career on a Krämer.”

The benefits of racing in the new MotoAmerica Talent Cup are deep. For starters, up to five MotoAmerica Talent Cup riders per year will receive invitations to try out for the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup selection.

The Krämer APX-350 MA will sell for $22,495 with the bikes expected to arrive in the U.S. in mid-February of 2025. Registration for the waitlist for the APX-350 MAs will take place on the Krämer website at https://www.kramermotorcyclesusa.com/motoamerica-talent-cup

Riders competing in MotoAmerica Mini Cup will also have plenty of motivation to take the next step in their racing endeavors as the top GP160 and GP190 riders from the MotoAmerica Mini Cup National Championships will be provided free season entry in the Talent Cup. Additionally, the top 190cc and 160cc participants from the FIM MiniCUP Series will also be given a free season entry to the Talent Cup. In order to qualify for the free season entry, both FIM MiniCUP and MotoAmerica Mini Cup riders must comply with the age requirements of the Talent Cup.

“We’re very happy to welcome the new MotoAmerica Talent Cup to the Road to MotoGP,” says Carlos Ezpeleta, Chief Sporting Officer at MotoGP rights holder Dorna Sports. “America has a huge history in our sport, and we want to see more of that made in the future. The best way to do that, we know from experience across the Road to MotoGP, is to create an environment that provides valuable and relevant experience – but pairing it with the opportunity to progress. The new MotoAmerica Talent Cup will do that, providing a next step for those in the lower levels as well as the chance to move up and show their skills at the next level in the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Selection Event. The Road to MotoGP is all about widening access to our sport and creating these kinds of opportunities, so we’re excited to see the Cup begin and look forward to welcoming the inaugural season alongside us at COTA next year.”

“The 2025 MotoAmerica Talent Cup will offer an excellent complement to MotoAmerica’s ongoing efforts to provide young North American road racers with the opportunities necessary to develop their skills to take on the next level of the sport,” said AMA and FIM North American President Rob Dingman. “The support of Krämer Motorcycles and all the series’ partners will elevate the series, remove barriers for young racers who want to pursue a racing career, and provide young talent with a chance to shine on the national stage.” 

“I could not be happier then when I saw that finally we will have a real “Road to MotoGP” in the United States next year,” said FIM President Jorge Viegas. “We need more talented American pilots, and this is the way. MotoAmerica will allow young talents to climb all the steps until reaching MotoGP and the FIM can only applaud this initiative.”

 

 

 

More, from a press release issued by Dorna:

MotoAmerica Talent Cup ready for launch in 2025

The all-new Cup will become the newest path on the Road to MotoGP™ next season – providing a new opportunity for young riders in North America

Friday, 14 June 2024

The all-new MotoAmerica Talent Cup will begin in 2025! This exciting addition to the Road to MotoGP™ programme is designed to provide a new, competitive platform for young riders in North America to hone their skills and get valuable racing experience. 

The MotoAmerica Talent Cup takes the place of the current Junior Cup class at MotoAmerica’s Championship rounds and is for riders aged 14 to 21. The inaugural season will feature a pre-season test and a minimum of six events comprising 12 races. The majority of the events will be held alongside MotoAmerica, with one taking place alongside MotoGP™ at COTA. 

Participants will race on Krämer APX-350 MA machines, featuring a Krämer chassis and a KTM 350 engine. The motorcycles will have a fully adjustable chassis and suspension, equipped with a Mectronik MKE5 racing ECU, and will run on Dunlop tyres. Riders will be responsible for purchasing and maintaining their bikes, with on-site technical assistance and spare parts provided by the manufacturer.

Age depending, the top 160cc and 190cc class riders from the MotoAmerica Mini Cup National Championships will be provided free season entry in the Talent Cup, as well as the top 190cc and 160cc participants from the FIM MiniCUP USA. Riders competing in MotoAmerica Talent Cup will also have plenty of opportunities to make the most of the Road to MotoGP™, with five places at the Selection Event for the Red Bull MotoGP™ Rookies Cup also available to MotoAmerica Talent Cup riders, providing access to another valuable platform to show their talent.

MotoAmerica is committed to fostering the next generation of racing talent, and the new MotoAmerica Talent Cup will be an incredible new addition to the Road to MotoGP™!

“We know racing high-performance motorcycles provides our young athletes more opportunities and better prepares them to race at higher levels on the Road to MotoGP,” said MotoAmerica President Wayne Rainey. “This is the first time MotoAmerica has created a class for our young riders that’s on the same performance-level bike as other Road to MotoGP Talent Cups worldwide. MotoAmerica was founded on the very idea of racing Moto3-type motorcycles, and now we’re finally making that concept a reality. I’m really excited because up to five riders will get an invitation to participate in the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup selection. My MotoAmerica partners are also excited to provide our younger riders this opportunity.”

“Krämer Motorcycles is proud to be the spec-bike supplier of the MotoAmerica Talent Cup and to help the next generation of American road racers on their path to the world stage,” said Jensen Beeler, CEO of Krämer Motorcycles USA. “Together with our partners in MotoAmerica, we believe we have created a machine that will elevate motorsport for American riders and be the tool that readies racers for the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup, FIM Moto3 World Championship, and beyond.”

“Like all of our motorcycles, the Krämer APX-350 MA is built with the single-minded purpose of winning on the racetrack, and without the compromises that come with a production-based machine,” said Markus Krämer, Founder of Krämer Motorcycles. “We believe this motorcycle is the ideal training platform for riders who are looking to advance to the international stage, and we will be proud to say one day that a World Champion started their career on a Krämer.”

“We’re very happy to welcome the new MotoAmerica Talent Cup to the Road to MotoGP™,” added Carlos Ezpeleta, Chief Sporting Officer at MotoGP™ rights holder Dorna Sports. “America has a huge history in our sport, and we want to see more of that made in the future. The best way to do that, we know from experience across the Road to MotoGP, is to create an environment that provides valuable and relevant experience – but pairing it with the opportunity to progress. The new MotoAmerica Talent Cup will do that, providing a next step for those in the lower levels as well as the chance to move up and show their skills at the next level in the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Selection Event. The Road to MotoGP is all about widening access to our sport and creating these kinds of opportunities, so we’re excited to see the Cup begin and look forward to welcoming the inaugural season alongside us at COTA next year.”
 
 

 

 

 

More, from a press release issued by Krämer Motorcycles:

Krämer Motorcycles Is Proud to Be the Spec-Bike Provider for the New MotoAmerica Talent Cup

IRVINE, CA (June 14, 2024) – MotoAmerica, North America’s premier road racing championship, is thrilled to announce a new path for America’s young road racers to reach the highest level of the sport as it is set to start a new chapter in American road racing in 2025 with the MotoAmerica Talent Cup. The MotoAmerica Talent Cup will be a part of the “Road To MotoGP” program.

The MotoAmerica Talent Cup takes the place of the current Junior Cup class at MotoAmerica’s Championship rounds with riders aged 14-21 doing battle on purpose-built Krämer racing motorcycles, which are race-ready and powered by 350cc KTM powerplants. The spec-racing class provides a better package for MotoAmerica’s young stars to hone their skills than the production-class motorcycles used in the Junior Cup class since 2018.

“We know racing high-performance motorcycles provides our young athletes more opportunities and better prepares them to race at higher levels on the ‘Road to MotoGP,’ ” said MotoAmerica President Wayne Rainey. “This is the first time MotoAmerica has created a class for our young riders that’s on the same performance-level bike as other ‘Road to MotoGP’ Talent Cups worldwide. MotoAmerica was founded on the very idea of racing Moto3-type motorcycles, and now we’re finally making that concept a reality. I’m really excited because up to five riders will get an invitation to participate in the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup selection. My MotoAmerica partners are also excited to provide our younger riders this opportunity.”

The MotoAmerica Talent Cup will consist of at least six events and one preseason test with one of those events to be held in conjunction with the 2025 Red Bull Grand Prix of The Americas at Circuit of The Americas in Austin, Texas.

The Krämer APX-350 MA makes over 50 horsepower and weighs under 255 pounds (115 kg) ready to race. The bike features a fully adjustable chassis and suspension and is managed by a Mectronik MKE5 racing ECU and the Krämer APX-350 MAs will be fitted with Dunlop tires. Full technical specs, details, and photos will be released in August.

“Krämer Motorcycles is proud to be the spec-bike supplier of the MotoAmerica Talent Cup and to help the next generation of American road racers on their path to the world stage,” said Jensen Beeler, CEO of Krämer Motorcycles USA. “Together with our partners in MotoAmerica, we believe we have created a machine that will elevate motorsport for American riders and be the tool that readies racers for the Red Bull Rookies Cup, FIM Moto3 World Championship, and beyond.”

“Like all of our motorcycles, the Krämer APX-350 MA is built with the single-minded purpose of winning on the racetrack, and without the compromises that come with a production-based machine,” said Markus Krämer, Founder of Krämer Motorcycles. “We believe this motorcycle is the ideal training platform for riders who are looking to advance to the international stage, and we will be proud to say one day that a World Champion started their career on a Krämer.”

The benefits of racing in the new MotoAmerica Talent Cup are deep. For starters, up to five MotoAmerica Talent Cup riders per year will receive invitations to try out for the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup selection.

The Krämer APX-350 MA will sell for $22,495 with the bikes expected to arrive in the U.S. in mid-February of 2025. Registration for the waitlist for the APX-350 MAs will take place on the Krämer website.

Riders competing in MotoAmerica Mini Cup will also have plenty of motivation to take the next step in their racing endeavors as the top GP160 and GP190 riders from the MotoAmerica Mini Cup National Championships will be provided free season entry in the Talent Cup. Additionally, the top 190cc and 160cc participants from the FIM MiniCUP Series will also be given a free season entry to the Talent Cup. In order to qualify for the free season entry, both FIM MiniCUP and MotoAmerica Mini Cup riders must comply with the age requirements of the Talent Cup.

“We’re very happy to welcome the new MotoAmerica Talent Cup to the Road to MotoGP,” says Carlos Ezpeleta, Chief Sporting Officer at MotoGP rights holder Dorna Sports. “America has a huge history in our sport, and we want to see more of that made in the future. The best way to do that, we know from experience across the Road to MotoGP, is to create an environment that provides valuable and relevant experience – but pairing it with the opportunity to progress. The new MotoAmerica Talent Cup will do that, providing a next step for those in the lower levels as well as the chance to move up and show their skills at the next level in the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Selection Event. The Road to MotoGP is all about widening access to our sport and creating these kinds of opportunities, so we’re excited to see the Cup begin and look forward to welcoming the inaugural season alongside us at COTA next year.”

“The 2025 MotoAmerica Talent Cup will offer an excellent complement to MotoAmerica’s ongoing efforts to provide young North American road racers with the opportunities necessary to develop their skills to take on the next level of the sport,” said AMA and FIM North American President Rob Dingman. “The support of Krämer Motorcycles and all the series’ partners will elevate the series, remove barriers for young racers who want to pursue a racing career, and provide young talent with a chance to shine on the national stage.”

“I could not be happier then when I saw that finally we will have a real “Road to MotoGP” in the United States next year,” said FIM President Jorge Viegas. “We need more talented American pilots, and this is the way. MotoAmerica will allow young talents to climb all the steps until reaching MotoGP and the FIM can only applaud this initiative.”

Riders wanting to participate in the 2025 MotoAmerica Talent Cup should reserve their bike now, as quantities will be limited. 

Krämer Motorcycles USA imports handbuilt, German-made, track-only road racing motorcycles into North America. More information is available at kramermotorcyclesusa.com.

MotoAmerica: Landers On Record Pace In Twins Cup FP1

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

 

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

 

Rocco Landers was on record pace during MotoAmerica BellissiMoto Twins Cup Free Practice One (FP1) Friday morning at Brainerd International Raceway, in Brainerd, Minnesota. Riding his RevZilla/Motul/Vance & Hines Suzuki GSX-8R on Dunlop control tires, the former class Champion lapped the 2.5-mile track in 1:36.611. Not only was that more than one second faster than anyone else, it was under Anthony Mazziotto’s Race Lap Record (1:36.944) and just shy of Cory Ventura’s All-Time Lap Record (1:36.465), both from 2022.

Rossi Moor was second-best with a 1:37.651 on his Vision Wheel M4 ECSTAR Suzuki GSX-8R, and Gus Rodio was third-fastest with a 1:37.871 on his Rodio Racing – Powered by Robem Engineering Aprilia RS 660.

 

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World Supersport: Montella Takes Career-First Pole, At Misano

WSS SP Qual

 

 

 

More, from a press release issued by Dorna:

First career pole position for Yari Montella

Superpole Highlights

Yari Montella (Barni Spark Racing Team) claimed the first Superpole of his WorldSSP career (1’36.876). Montella, race winner at the opening round of the year in Australia, is second in the World Championship
 
It was an action-packed session for Championship leader Adrian Huertas (Aruba.it Racing WorldSSP Team). The Spaniard suffered an early crash in the Superpole session but when he returned to the track, he looked like the rider to beat. Unfortunately, a track limits penalty cost him his fastest time and he had to settle for second on the grid
 
The top three in the championship standings will line-up together on the front row of the grid
 
Dutch Round race winner Glenn van Straalen (Pata Yamaha Ten Kate Racing) crashed during Superpole and qualified in 14th position
 
Simone Corsi (Renzi Corse) was the leading Supersport Challenge rider with the Italian qualifying in 11th position

P1 | Yari Montella | Barni Spark Racing Team

“This is my first pole position. To do this at home means it was a perfect day for us. I want to thank my team because we have worked throughout the tests and today for this result. We need to be strong and to stay focused on the race.”

MotoAmerica: Chapin Quickest In Junior Cup FP1 At Brainerd

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

 

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

 

Matthew Chapin was quickest in MotoAmerica Junior Cup Free Practice One (FP1) Friday morning at Brainerd International Raceway, in Brainerd, Minnesota. Riding his BARTCON Racing Kawasaki Ninja 400 on Dunlop control tires, Chapin lapped the 2.5-mile road course in 1:44.647 to lead the field of 21 riders.

 

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WorldWCR: Herrera Takes Series’ First Pole, At Misano

Editorial Note: American Mallory Dobbs, riding her Sekhmet Motorcycle Racing Team Yamaha YZF-R7, qualified 18th with a time of 1:53.026.

 

WCR Superpole Qual

 

 

More, from a press release issued by Dorna:

Maria Herrera takes the inaugural WorldWCR pole at Misano

Superpole Highlights:

  • It is Spaniard Maria Herrera (Klint Forward Factory Team) who scores the first pole position (1’49.390) of this ground-breaking WorldWCR season aboard the Yamaha YZF-R7.
  • Sara Sanchez (511 Terra&Vita Racing Team) and Ana Carrasco (Evan Bros Racing Yamaha Team) finish a close second and third, coming within two tenths of a second of Herrera.
  • An impressive last lap by local hero Roberta Ponziani (Yamaha Motoxracing WCR Team) sees the Italian take fourth.
  • Representing South Africa and Chile respectively, Jessica Howden (Team Trasimeno) and Isis Carreno (AD78 FIM Latinoamerica by Team GP3) also put in a strong performance to round out the second row in fifth and sixth.
  • Earlier in the day, in cooler conditions, Sara Sanchez had topped free practice ahead of Maria Herrera, Ana Carrasco and Roberta Ponziani.
  • Mia Rusthen (Rusthen Racing), Mallory Dobbs (Sekhmet Motorcycle Racing Team) and Krystal Silfa (ITALIKA Racing FIMLA) each suffered a crash during the morning’s practice but were fortunately unhurt.

More on worldsbk.com

P1 | Maria Herrera | Klint Forward Factory Team | 1’49.390
“I’m really pleased to be on pole. I couldn’t actually see my pit board, so I didn’t know until we were finished that I was in front! I’m still adapting to the bike and have only had today’s sessions because we had no opportunity to test, so I’m really happy, both for me and the team who supports me on this new adventure. It’s been hard work to arrange everything but we’re here! I was nervous because we hadn’t had time to try the bike before coming here and I knew the field would be competitive. I know my potential, but the limited track time means that we’re still learning. I think tomorrow’s race will be a hard battle, but we will work hard and do our best to win.”

P2 | Sara Sanchez | 511 Terra&Vita Racing Team | 1’49.441
“I made a good start today and set the fastest time in free practice. We then made some refinements before Superpole and were able to place second in that qualifying phase. I think we did a really good job, but we want to do more to improve ahead of tomorrow. I’m proud to be here and on the front row of the grid at this first championship round and think I have a chance to win tomorrow’s race. A big thank you to my team, sponsors and family.”

P3 | Ana Carrasco | Evan Bros Racing Yamaha Team | 1’49.514
“I’m happy with this first day, and a front row start is important. I knew this round would be a tough one as many riders know the Misano track and know how to be fast here. Conditions were hotter this afternoon, but the biggest problem for me today was the wind, actually. We have good pace I think, but the slipstream is also important here. I think we’re in for a hard-fought race, and probably a last lap battle between four or five riders, so I’ll do my best to be in a good position. I’m working well with the team and have good confidence. There’s not so much we can modify on the bike, but my team are doing all they can to help. As for this inaugural round of the WorldWCR, it’s great to have so many countries represented and so many riders on the grid.”

World Supersport: Huertas Under Race Record In FP1 At Misano

Adrian Huertas was quickest during FIM Supersport World Championship Free Practice One (FP1) Friday morning at Misano World Circuit – Marco Simoncelli, in San Marino. Spaniard Huertas used his Pirelli-shod Aruba.it Racing Ducati Panigale V2 to lap the 2.6-mile (4.2 km) circuit in 1:37.228, which was good enough to lead the field of 34 riders and was quicker than Federico Caricasulo’s 2023 Race Lap Record of 1:37.470.

Former MotoAmerica Supersport star Valentin Debise was fourth with a 1:38.098 on his Evan Bros Yamaha YZF-R6.

American Mallory Dobbs, riding her Sekhmet Motorcycle Racing Team Yamaha YZF-R7, was 17th out of 26 riders in FIM Women’s Circuit Racing (WCR) World Championship Free Practice One (FP1) at Misano.

 

WSS FP1

WorldSBK: Razgatlioglu Dominates FP1 At Misano

Toprak Razgatlioglu topped FIM Superbike World Championship Free Practice One (FP1) Friday morning at Misano World Circuit – Marco Simoncelli, in San Marino. Riding his ROKiT BMW Motorrad M 1000 RR on Pirelli control tires, the Turkish star lapped the 2.6-mile (4.2 km) course in 1:33.448 to lead the field of 24 riders.

Alex Lowes was second-best with a 1:34.008 – 0.560 second slower than Razgatlioglu – on his factory Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10RR.

Rookie sensation Nicolo Bulega was third-fastest with a 1:34.029 on his Aruba.it Racing Ducati Panigale V4 R.

American Garrett Gerloff was 18th in the session with a 1:34.978 on his Bonovo Action BMW.

 

WSBK FP1

WorldSBK: Alex Lowes Signs With Bimota By Kawasaki Racing Team

Lowes Signs For 2025 Bimota By Kawasaki Racing Team Project

After the announcement of the Bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team project for the 2025 season current KRT rider Alex Lowes has signed an agreement to race the new machine in the official team.

Lowes is currently a successful official Kawasaki rider in WorldSBK, having won two races at the opening round of the season in Australia. He is fourth in the championship on the eve of the fourth round, which will be held at the Misano World Circuit ‘Marco Simoncelli.’

Lowes’ participation delivers a high level of continuity for the otherwise new project as he will be working alongside many of the staff that he has built-up a strong personal and working relationship with, in what is now his fifth year inside KRT.

The exiting new initiative is another reason for Lowes to feel optimistic about his future, especially as his progress has been developing year-on-year inside the official KRT squad. Lowes is also the most experienced rider in the team this year and in response Alex has grown into his new role as the senior competitor in a highly positive and confident fashion. His two 2024 race wins so far have already proved that his trust in his team and the latest technical package have been well-placed.

With most of the 2024 season still ahead of him Lowes is ready to work hard to continue in the strong fashion he and the Ninja ZX-10RR have already demonstrated after three rounds of the 12-round championship. Nine rounds, including the imminent one at Misano, remain in the 2024 campaign.  

Alex Lowes, stated: “I believe this opportunity has come at the correct time. Along with Bimota, Kawasaki are putting huge effort into this new project. Utilising Kawasaki’s nearly 40 years of Superbike racing knowledge and success and also my personal experience with different manufacturers I believe this gives us the best chance to start from the best possible position with the new bike. I have shown that I am still improving and still fast and competitive at the front of WorldSBK. A big thank you to KMC, Bimota and Provec Racing for the faith shown in me. I’m happy to continue to be part of our racing family! I’m enjoying my racing a lot and we still have a lot to focus on during 2024. We had a nice start to the season with a couple of race victories but now our focus is on Misano. It’s a track I really enjoy, we had a test here recently and I felt strong on the bike let’s work hard focus and see what results we can take this weekend. Arigato, Grazie Mille, Muchas Gracias and Thank you!”

Attending the Misano round of WorldSBK in person, Shigemi Tanaka, General Manager, Marketing & Sales Division, Kawasaki Motors, Ltd. commented: “On behalf of Kawasaki and Bimota, we are delighted to secure the services of Alex Lowes for the Bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team. His experience and racecraft are considerable assets plus he has a positive and personal history with many of the staff he will work with on this exciting new racing project. Now Alex can concentrate on yet more success across the rest of the 2024 without distraction while preparations continue for the new team.”

Guim Roda, KRT Team Manager, stated: “With Alex we are on a great journey. We started in Covid times in a difficult season for him to get his racing rhythm, and in ‘21 and ‘22 he suffered various injuries that did not allow him to show his true potential. But he still showed his speed and other qualities in those years. Now is time to take consistency to a new level. Lately rule limitations did not allow us to extract all the potential of our ZX-10RR, but this season we had possibilities to upgrade certain areas on the bike and that has certainly helped Alex. He has a very good mind set, and he has become a good ambassador for Kawasaki. We want to continue with solid our structure next season, and we have next challenges to achieve with BbKRT project so we need all our best tools to make it good. Therefore  we are super happy that Alex was positive to continue with us despite other offers he had. For sure now we all can move forward focused to finish 2024 season, and start making more history in 2025”.

WorldSBK: Bulega Best In FP2 At Misano (Updated)

Nicolo Bulega (11). Photo courtesy Ducati.
Nicolo Bulega (11). Photo courtesy Ducati.

Nicolo Bulega posted the best lap time during World Superbike Free Practice Two (FP2) Friday afternoon at Misano World Circuit – Marco Simoncelli, in San Marino. On board his Aruba.it Racing Ducati Panigale V4 R, the rookie sensation lapped the 2.6-mile (4.2 km) track in 1:33.511 to top the field of 24 riders.

Bulega’s teammate Alvaro Bautista, the two-time and defending World Champion, was the best of the rest at 1:33.913.

GYTR GRT Yamaha’s Remy Gardner was third overall and the top Yamaha man at 1:33.921.

Andrea Iannone was fourth with a 1:33.960 on his Team GoEleven Ducati.

Toprak Razgatlioglu crashed his ROKiT BMW Motorrad M 1000 RR during FP2 and ended up fifth with a 1:34.221, but his 1:33.448 from Free Practice One stood up as the fastest lap time of the day.

American Garrett Gerloff finished FP2 ranked 21st with a 1:35.137 on his Bonovo Action BMW.

 

WSBK FP2

 

 

 

More, from a press release issued by Dorna:

Razgatlioglu sets the pace at Misano despite a crash

 

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

Practice Highlights

Toprak Razgatlioglu (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) lost the final 25 minutes of Free Practice following a Turn 16 crash. Despite that the Turkish rider set the pace (1’33.448) on the opening day at Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli
 
Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) and teammate Alvaro Bautista were second and third fastest
 
Remy Gardner (GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) continues momentum from his Dutch Round podium with the fourth fastest time (1’34.462)
 
Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK riders Axel Bassani and Alex Lowes inside top ten despite focusing on race simulations in Free Practice 2
 
Razgatlioglu, Lowes and Bassani were the only riders inside the Top 10 not to improve their times from Free Practice 1 to Free Practice 2

P1 | Toprak Razgatlioglu | ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team

“Everything is okay. It was just a small crash and not a fast crash. I’m happy because the crash was before the race and I was able to understand something. For tomorrow I’m feeling strong and, in general, I’m very happy. We have a very good package for the race weekend and everything is going well.”

 

Nicolo Bulega (11). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Nicolo Bulega (11). Photo courtesy Dorna.

 

P2 | Nicolo Bulega | Aruba.it Racing – Ducati

“During FP1 I didn’t feel very comfortable on the bike. I had some issues with how the bike was. For FP2 my team did a great job but we have to find something more for tomorrow. In the last part of braking into the corner it is a bit difficult to stop the bike. The rear is still pushing a little bit but we improved the bike a lot from FP1 to FP2. I can expect to improve even more for tomorrow. It’s important that I know this track very well even if I don’t know it with a Superbike.”

 

Alvaro Bautista (1). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Alvaro Bautista (1). Photo courtesy Dorna.

 

P3 | Alvaro Bautista | Aruba.it Racing – Ducati

“Today was a bit strange. We started the morning trying the new front tyre from Pirelli but I didn’t have the right feeling in the braking area. The bike was struggling to stop and to get into the corner. In the end we went back to our standard front tyre but in the afternoon we tried the new rear tyre. Unfortunately, I didn’t feel the same feedback that I had in the test. The bike was exactly the same, but my feeling was different. It was more difficult for me so I asked the team to make some changes to help me with that. For the last exit I had used tyres and I did my best lap time even with 15 laps old tyres. To do a 1m33 is good.”

MotoAmerica: Jacobsen Leads Supersport FP1 At Brainerd

PJ Jacobsen (15). Photo from Road America by Brian J. Nelson.
PJ Jacobsen (15). Photo from Road America by Brian J. Nelson.

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

 

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

 

PJ Jacobsen led MotoAmerica Supersport Free Practice One (FP1) Friday morning at Brainerd International Raceway, in Brainerd, Minnesota. Riding his Rahal Ducati Moto w/XPEL Panigale V2 on Dunlop spec tires, Jacobsen covered the 2.5-mile course in 1:34.414 to lead the field of 35 riders.

Mathew Scholtz was second with a 1:34.710 on his Strack Racing Yamaha YZF-R6.

Tyler Scott turned a third-quickest 1:34.986 on his Vision Wheel M4 ECSTAR Suzuki GSX-R750.

With new EasyHealthPlans.com sponsorship on his TopPro Racing Suzuki GSX-R750, Maxi Gerardo was fourth with a 1:35.950.

Scott’s teammate Teagg Hobbs rounded out the top five with a 1:35.970.

 

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New MotoAmerica Talent Cup Joins “Road To MotoGP” Program

A rendering of the 2025 Krämer APX-350 MA race bike that will power the MotoAmerica Talent Cup. Image courtesy MotoAmerica and Krämer.
A rendering of the 2025 Krämer APX-350 MA race bike that will power the MotoAmerica Talent Cup. Image courtesy MotoAmerica and Krämer.

MotoAmerica Opens A New Chapter In Youth Road Racing With The 2025 MotoAmerica Talent Cup

Racers Aged 14 To 21 To Race Purpose-Built Moto3 Krämer Racebikes “On The Road To MotoGP”

IRVINE, CA (June 14, 2024) – MotoAmerica, North America’s premier road racing championship, is thrilled to announce a new path for America’s young road racers to reach the highest level of the sport as it is set to start a new chapter in American road racing in 2025 with the MotoAmerica Talent Cup. The MotoAmerica Talent Cup will be a part of the “Road To MotoGP” program.

The MotoAmerica Talent Cup takes the place of the current Junior Cup class at MotoAmerica’s Championship rounds with riders aged 14-21 doing battle on purpose-built Krämer racing motorcycles, which are race-ready and powered by 350cc KTM powerplants. The spec-racing class provides a better package for MotoAmerica’s young stars to hone their skills than the production-class motorcycles used in the Junior Cup class since 2018.

“We know racing high-performance motorcycles provides our young athletes more opportunities and better prepares them to race at higher levels on the ‘Road to MotoGP,’ ” said MotoAmerica President Wayne Rainey. “This is the first time MotoAmerica has created a class for our young riders that’s on the same performance-level bike as other ‘Road to MotoGP’ Talent Cups worldwide. MotoAmerica was founded on the very idea of racing Moto3-type motorcycles, and now we’re finally making that concept a reality. I’m really excited because up to five riders will get an invitation to participate in the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup selection. My MotoAmerica partners are also excited to provide our younger riders this opportunity.”

The MotoAmerica Talent Cup will consist of at least six events and one preseason test with one of those events to be held in conjunction with the 2025 Red Bull Grand Prix of The Americas at Circuit of The Americas in Austin, Texas.

The Krämer APX-350 MA makes over 50 horsepower and weighs under 255 pounds (115 kg) ready to race. The bike features a fully adjustable chassis and suspension and is managed by a Mectronik MKE5 racing ECU and the Krämer APX-350 MAs will be fitted with Dunlop tires. Full technical specs, details, and photos will be released in August.

“Krämer Motorcycles is proud to be the spec-bike supplier of the MotoAmerica Talent Cup and to help the next generation of American road racers on their path to the world stage,” said Jensen Beeler, CEO of Krämer Motorcycles USA. “Together with our partners in MotoAmerica, we believe we have created a machine that will elevate motorsport for American riders and be the tool that readies racers for the Red Bull Rookies Cup, FIM Moto3 World Championship, and beyond.”

“Like all of our motorcycles, the Krämer APX-350 MA is built with the single-minded purpose of winning on the racetrack, and without the compromises that come with a production-based machine,” said Markus Krämer, Founder of Krämer Motorcycles. “We believe this motorcycle is the ideal training platform for riders who are looking to advance to the international stage, and we will be proud to say one day that a World Champion started their career on a Krämer.”

The benefits of racing in the new MotoAmerica Talent Cup are deep. For starters, up to five MotoAmerica Talent Cup riders per year will receive invitations to try out for the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup selection.

The Krämer APX-350 MA will sell for $22,495 with the bikes expected to arrive in the U.S. in mid-February of 2025. Registration for the waitlist for the APX-350 MAs will take place on the Krämer website at https://www.kramermotorcyclesusa.com/motoamerica-talent-cup

Riders competing in MotoAmerica Mini Cup will also have plenty of motivation to take the next step in their racing endeavors as the top GP160 and GP190 riders from the MotoAmerica Mini Cup National Championships will be provided free season entry in the Talent Cup. Additionally, the top 190cc and 160cc participants from the FIM MiniCUP Series will also be given a free season entry to the Talent Cup. In order to qualify for the free season entry, both FIM MiniCUP and MotoAmerica Mini Cup riders must comply with the age requirements of the Talent Cup.

“We’re very happy to welcome the new MotoAmerica Talent Cup to the Road to MotoGP,” says Carlos Ezpeleta, Chief Sporting Officer at MotoGP rights holder Dorna Sports. “America has a huge history in our sport, and we want to see more of that made in the future. The best way to do that, we know from experience across the Road to MotoGP, is to create an environment that provides valuable and relevant experience – but pairing it with the opportunity to progress. The new MotoAmerica Talent Cup will do that, providing a next step for those in the lower levels as well as the chance to move up and show their skills at the next level in the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Selection Event. The Road to MotoGP is all about widening access to our sport and creating these kinds of opportunities, so we’re excited to see the Cup begin and look forward to welcoming the inaugural season alongside us at COTA next year.”

“The 2025 MotoAmerica Talent Cup will offer an excellent complement to MotoAmerica’s ongoing efforts to provide young North American road racers with the opportunities necessary to develop their skills to take on the next level of the sport,” said AMA and FIM North American President Rob Dingman. “The support of Krämer Motorcycles and all the series’ partners will elevate the series, remove barriers for young racers who want to pursue a racing career, and provide young talent with a chance to shine on the national stage.” 

“I could not be happier then when I saw that finally we will have a real “Road to MotoGP” in the United States next year,” said FIM President Jorge Viegas. “We need more talented American pilots, and this is the way. MotoAmerica will allow young talents to climb all the steps until reaching MotoGP and the FIM can only applaud this initiative.”

 

 

 

More, from a press release issued by Dorna:

MotoAmerica Talent Cup ready for launch in 2025

The all-new Cup will become the newest path on the Road to MotoGP™ next season – providing a new opportunity for young riders in North America

Friday, 14 June 2024

The all-new MotoAmerica Talent Cup will begin in 2025! This exciting addition to the Road to MotoGP™ programme is designed to provide a new, competitive platform for young riders in North America to hone their skills and get valuable racing experience. 

The MotoAmerica Talent Cup takes the place of the current Junior Cup class at MotoAmerica’s Championship rounds and is for riders aged 14 to 21. The inaugural season will feature a pre-season test and a minimum of six events comprising 12 races. The majority of the events will be held alongside MotoAmerica, with one taking place alongside MotoGP™ at COTA. 

Participants will race on Krämer APX-350 MA machines, featuring a Krämer chassis and a KTM 350 engine. The motorcycles will have a fully adjustable chassis and suspension, equipped with a Mectronik MKE5 racing ECU, and will run on Dunlop tyres. Riders will be responsible for purchasing and maintaining their bikes, with on-site technical assistance and spare parts provided by the manufacturer.

Age depending, the top 160cc and 190cc class riders from the MotoAmerica Mini Cup National Championships will be provided free season entry in the Talent Cup, as well as the top 190cc and 160cc participants from the FIM MiniCUP USA. Riders competing in MotoAmerica Talent Cup will also have plenty of opportunities to make the most of the Road to MotoGP™, with five places at the Selection Event for the Red Bull MotoGP™ Rookies Cup also available to MotoAmerica Talent Cup riders, providing access to another valuable platform to show their talent.

MotoAmerica is committed to fostering the next generation of racing talent, and the new MotoAmerica Talent Cup will be an incredible new addition to the Road to MotoGP™!

“We know racing high-performance motorcycles provides our young athletes more opportunities and better prepares them to race at higher levels on the Road to MotoGP,” said MotoAmerica President Wayne Rainey. “This is the first time MotoAmerica has created a class for our young riders that’s on the same performance-level bike as other Road to MotoGP Talent Cups worldwide. MotoAmerica was founded on the very idea of racing Moto3-type motorcycles, and now we’re finally making that concept a reality. I’m really excited because up to five riders will get an invitation to participate in the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup selection. My MotoAmerica partners are also excited to provide our younger riders this opportunity.”

“Krämer Motorcycles is proud to be the spec-bike supplier of the MotoAmerica Talent Cup and to help the next generation of American road racers on their path to the world stage,” said Jensen Beeler, CEO of Krämer Motorcycles USA. “Together with our partners in MotoAmerica, we believe we have created a machine that will elevate motorsport for American riders and be the tool that readies racers for the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup, FIM Moto3 World Championship, and beyond.”

“Like all of our motorcycles, the Krämer APX-350 MA is built with the single-minded purpose of winning on the racetrack, and without the compromises that come with a production-based machine,” said Markus Krämer, Founder of Krämer Motorcycles. “We believe this motorcycle is the ideal training platform for riders who are looking to advance to the international stage, and we will be proud to say one day that a World Champion started their career on a Krämer.”

“We’re very happy to welcome the new MotoAmerica Talent Cup to the Road to MotoGP™,” added Carlos Ezpeleta, Chief Sporting Officer at MotoGP™ rights holder Dorna Sports. “America has a huge history in our sport, and we want to see more of that made in the future. The best way to do that, we know from experience across the Road to MotoGP, is to create an environment that provides valuable and relevant experience – but pairing it with the opportunity to progress. The new MotoAmerica Talent Cup will do that, providing a next step for those in the lower levels as well as the chance to move up and show their skills at the next level in the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Selection Event. The Road to MotoGP is all about widening access to our sport and creating these kinds of opportunities, so we’re excited to see the Cup begin and look forward to welcoming the inaugural season alongside us at COTA next year.”
 
 

 

 

 

More, from a press release issued by Krämer Motorcycles:

Krämer Motorcycles Is Proud to Be the Spec-Bike Provider for the New MotoAmerica Talent Cup

IRVINE, CA (June 14, 2024) – MotoAmerica, North America’s premier road racing championship, is thrilled to announce a new path for America’s young road racers to reach the highest level of the sport as it is set to start a new chapter in American road racing in 2025 with the MotoAmerica Talent Cup. The MotoAmerica Talent Cup will be a part of the “Road To MotoGP” program.

The MotoAmerica Talent Cup takes the place of the current Junior Cup class at MotoAmerica’s Championship rounds with riders aged 14-21 doing battle on purpose-built Krämer racing motorcycles, which are race-ready and powered by 350cc KTM powerplants. The spec-racing class provides a better package for MotoAmerica’s young stars to hone their skills than the production-class motorcycles used in the Junior Cup class since 2018.

“We know racing high-performance motorcycles provides our young athletes more opportunities and better prepares them to race at higher levels on the ‘Road to MotoGP,’ ” said MotoAmerica President Wayne Rainey. “This is the first time MotoAmerica has created a class for our young riders that’s on the same performance-level bike as other ‘Road to MotoGP’ Talent Cups worldwide. MotoAmerica was founded on the very idea of racing Moto3-type motorcycles, and now we’re finally making that concept a reality. I’m really excited because up to five riders will get an invitation to participate in the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup selection. My MotoAmerica partners are also excited to provide our younger riders this opportunity.”

The MotoAmerica Talent Cup will consist of at least six events and one preseason test with one of those events to be held in conjunction with the 2025 Red Bull Grand Prix of The Americas at Circuit of The Americas in Austin, Texas.

The Krämer APX-350 MA makes over 50 horsepower and weighs under 255 pounds (115 kg) ready to race. The bike features a fully adjustable chassis and suspension and is managed by a Mectronik MKE5 racing ECU and the Krämer APX-350 MAs will be fitted with Dunlop tires. Full technical specs, details, and photos will be released in August.

“Krämer Motorcycles is proud to be the spec-bike supplier of the MotoAmerica Talent Cup and to help the next generation of American road racers on their path to the world stage,” said Jensen Beeler, CEO of Krämer Motorcycles USA. “Together with our partners in MotoAmerica, we believe we have created a machine that will elevate motorsport for American riders and be the tool that readies racers for the Red Bull Rookies Cup, FIM Moto3 World Championship, and beyond.”

“Like all of our motorcycles, the Krämer APX-350 MA is built with the single-minded purpose of winning on the racetrack, and without the compromises that come with a production-based machine,” said Markus Krämer, Founder of Krämer Motorcycles. “We believe this motorcycle is the ideal training platform for riders who are looking to advance to the international stage, and we will be proud to say one day that a World Champion started their career on a Krämer.”

The benefits of racing in the new MotoAmerica Talent Cup are deep. For starters, up to five MotoAmerica Talent Cup riders per year will receive invitations to try out for the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup selection.

The Krämer APX-350 MA will sell for $22,495 with the bikes expected to arrive in the U.S. in mid-February of 2025. Registration for the waitlist for the APX-350 MAs will take place on the Krämer website.

Riders competing in MotoAmerica Mini Cup will also have plenty of motivation to take the next step in their racing endeavors as the top GP160 and GP190 riders from the MotoAmerica Mini Cup National Championships will be provided free season entry in the Talent Cup. Additionally, the top 190cc and 160cc participants from the FIM MiniCUP Series will also be given a free season entry to the Talent Cup. In order to qualify for the free season entry, both FIM MiniCUP and MotoAmerica Mini Cup riders must comply with the age requirements of the Talent Cup.

“We’re very happy to welcome the new MotoAmerica Talent Cup to the Road to MotoGP,” says Carlos Ezpeleta, Chief Sporting Officer at MotoGP rights holder Dorna Sports. “America has a huge history in our sport, and we want to see more of that made in the future. The best way to do that, we know from experience across the Road to MotoGP, is to create an environment that provides valuable and relevant experience – but pairing it with the opportunity to progress. The new MotoAmerica Talent Cup will do that, providing a next step for those in the lower levels as well as the chance to move up and show their skills at the next level in the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Selection Event. The Road to MotoGP is all about widening access to our sport and creating these kinds of opportunities, so we’re excited to see the Cup begin and look forward to welcoming the inaugural season alongside us at COTA next year.”

“The 2025 MotoAmerica Talent Cup will offer an excellent complement to MotoAmerica’s ongoing efforts to provide young North American road racers with the opportunities necessary to develop their skills to take on the next level of the sport,” said AMA and FIM North American President Rob Dingman. “The support of Krämer Motorcycles and all the series’ partners will elevate the series, remove barriers for young racers who want to pursue a racing career, and provide young talent with a chance to shine on the national stage.”

“I could not be happier then when I saw that finally we will have a real “Road to MotoGP” in the United States next year,” said FIM President Jorge Viegas. “We need more talented American pilots, and this is the way. MotoAmerica will allow young talents to climb all the steps until reaching MotoGP and the FIM can only applaud this initiative.”

Riders wanting to participate in the 2025 MotoAmerica Talent Cup should reserve their bike now, as quantities will be limited. 

Krämer Motorcycles USA imports handbuilt, German-made, track-only road racing motorcycles into North America. More information is available at kramermotorcyclesusa.com.

MotoAmerica: Landers On Record Pace In Twins Cup FP1

Rocco Lander (97). Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
Rocco Lander (97). Photo by Brian J. Nelson.

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

 

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

 

Rocco Landers was on record pace during MotoAmerica BellissiMoto Twins Cup Free Practice One (FP1) Friday morning at Brainerd International Raceway, in Brainerd, Minnesota. Riding his RevZilla/Motul/Vance & Hines Suzuki GSX-8R on Dunlop control tires, the former class Champion lapped the 2.5-mile track in 1:36.611. Not only was that more than one second faster than anyone else, it was under Anthony Mazziotto’s Race Lap Record (1:36.944) and just shy of Cory Ventura’s All-Time Lap Record (1:36.465), both from 2022.

Rossi Moor was second-best with a 1:37.651 on his Vision Wheel M4 ECSTAR Suzuki GSX-8R, and Gus Rodio was third-fastest with a 1:37.871 on his Rodio Racing – Powered by Robem Engineering Aprilia RS 660.

 

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World Supersport: Montella Takes Career-First Pole, At Misano

Yari Montella (55). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Yari Montella (55). Photo courtesy Dorna.
WSS SP Qual

 

 

 

More, from a press release issued by Dorna:

First career pole position for Yari Montella

Superpole Highlights

Yari Montella (Barni Spark Racing Team) claimed the first Superpole of his WorldSSP career (1’36.876). Montella, race winner at the opening round of the year in Australia, is second in the World Championship
 
It was an action-packed session for Championship leader Adrian Huertas (Aruba.it Racing WorldSSP Team). The Spaniard suffered an early crash in the Superpole session but when he returned to the track, he looked like the rider to beat. Unfortunately, a track limits penalty cost him his fastest time and he had to settle for second on the grid
 
The top three in the championship standings will line-up together on the front row of the grid
 
Dutch Round race winner Glenn van Straalen (Pata Yamaha Ten Kate Racing) crashed during Superpole and qualified in 14th position
 
Simone Corsi (Renzi Corse) was the leading Supersport Challenge rider with the Italian qualifying in 11th position

P1 | Yari Montella | Barni Spark Racing Team

“This is my first pole position. To do this at home means it was a perfect day for us. I want to thank my team because we have worked throughout the tests and today for this result. We need to be strong and to stay focused on the race.”

MotoAmerica: Chapin Quickest In Junior Cup FP1 At Brainerd

Matthew Chapin (95). Photo from Road America by Brian J. Nelson.
Matthew Chapin (95). Photo from Road America by Brian J. Nelson.

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

 

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

 

Matthew Chapin was quickest in MotoAmerica Junior Cup Free Practice One (FP1) Friday morning at Brainerd International Raceway, in Brainerd, Minnesota. Riding his BARTCON Racing Kawasaki Ninja 400 on Dunlop control tires, Chapin lapped the 2.5-mile road course in 1:44.647 to lead the field of 21 riders.

 

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WorldWCR: Herrera Takes Series’ First Pole, At Misano

Maria Herrera (6). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Maria Herrera (6). Photo courtesy Dorna.

Editorial Note: American Mallory Dobbs, riding her Sekhmet Motorcycle Racing Team Yamaha YZF-R7, qualified 18th with a time of 1:53.026.

 

WCR Superpole Qual

 

 

More, from a press release issued by Dorna:

Maria Herrera takes the inaugural WorldWCR pole at Misano

Superpole Highlights:

  • It is Spaniard Maria Herrera (Klint Forward Factory Team) who scores the first pole position (1’49.390) of this ground-breaking WorldWCR season aboard the Yamaha YZF-R7.
  • Sara Sanchez (511 Terra&Vita Racing Team) and Ana Carrasco (Evan Bros Racing Yamaha Team) finish a close second and third, coming within two tenths of a second of Herrera.
  • An impressive last lap by local hero Roberta Ponziani (Yamaha Motoxracing WCR Team) sees the Italian take fourth.
  • Representing South Africa and Chile respectively, Jessica Howden (Team Trasimeno) and Isis Carreno (AD78 FIM Latinoamerica by Team GP3) also put in a strong performance to round out the second row in fifth and sixth.
  • Earlier in the day, in cooler conditions, Sara Sanchez had topped free practice ahead of Maria Herrera, Ana Carrasco and Roberta Ponziani.
  • Mia Rusthen (Rusthen Racing), Mallory Dobbs (Sekhmet Motorcycle Racing Team) and Krystal Silfa (ITALIKA Racing FIMLA) each suffered a crash during the morning’s practice but were fortunately unhurt.

More on worldsbk.com

P1 | Maria Herrera | Klint Forward Factory Team | 1’49.390
“I’m really pleased to be on pole. I couldn’t actually see my pit board, so I didn’t know until we were finished that I was in front! I’m still adapting to the bike and have only had today’s sessions because we had no opportunity to test, so I’m really happy, both for me and the team who supports me on this new adventure. It’s been hard work to arrange everything but we’re here! I was nervous because we hadn’t had time to try the bike before coming here and I knew the field would be competitive. I know my potential, but the limited track time means that we’re still learning. I think tomorrow’s race will be a hard battle, but we will work hard and do our best to win.”

P2 | Sara Sanchez | 511 Terra&Vita Racing Team | 1’49.441
“I made a good start today and set the fastest time in free practice. We then made some refinements before Superpole and were able to place second in that qualifying phase. I think we did a really good job, but we want to do more to improve ahead of tomorrow. I’m proud to be here and on the front row of the grid at this first championship round and think I have a chance to win tomorrow’s race. A big thank you to my team, sponsors and family.”

P3 | Ana Carrasco | Evan Bros Racing Yamaha Team | 1’49.514
“I’m happy with this first day, and a front row start is important. I knew this round would be a tough one as many riders know the Misano track and know how to be fast here. Conditions were hotter this afternoon, but the biggest problem for me today was the wind, actually. We have good pace I think, but the slipstream is also important here. I think we’re in for a hard-fought race, and probably a last lap battle between four or five riders, so I’ll do my best to be in a good position. I’m working well with the team and have good confidence. There’s not so much we can modify on the bike, but my team are doing all they can to help. As for this inaugural round of the WorldWCR, it’s great to have so many countries represented and so many riders on the grid.”

World Supersport: Huertas Under Race Record In FP1 At Misano

Adrian Huertas (99). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Adrian Huertas (99). Photo courtesy Dorna.

Adrian Huertas was quickest during FIM Supersport World Championship Free Practice One (FP1) Friday morning at Misano World Circuit – Marco Simoncelli, in San Marino. Spaniard Huertas used his Pirelli-shod Aruba.it Racing Ducati Panigale V2 to lap the 2.6-mile (4.2 km) circuit in 1:37.228, which was good enough to lead the field of 34 riders and was quicker than Federico Caricasulo’s 2023 Race Lap Record of 1:37.470.

Former MotoAmerica Supersport star Valentin Debise was fourth with a 1:38.098 on his Evan Bros Yamaha YZF-R6.

American Mallory Dobbs, riding her Sekhmet Motorcycle Racing Team Yamaha YZF-R7, was 17th out of 26 riders in FIM Women’s Circuit Racing (WCR) World Championship Free Practice One (FP1) at Misano.

 

WSS FP1

WorldSBK: Razgatlioglu Dominates FP1 At Misano

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

Toprak Razgatlioglu topped FIM Superbike World Championship Free Practice One (FP1) Friday morning at Misano World Circuit – Marco Simoncelli, in San Marino. Riding his ROKiT BMW Motorrad M 1000 RR on Pirelli control tires, the Turkish star lapped the 2.6-mile (4.2 km) course in 1:33.448 to lead the field of 24 riders.

Alex Lowes was second-best with a 1:34.008 – 0.560 second slower than Razgatlioglu – on his factory Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10RR.

Rookie sensation Nicolo Bulega was third-fastest with a 1:34.029 on his Aruba.it Racing Ducati Panigale V4 R.

American Garrett Gerloff was 18th in the session with a 1:34.978 on his Bonovo Action BMW.

 

WSBK FP1

WorldSBK: Alex Lowes Signs With Bimota By Kawasaki Racing Team

Alex Lowes. Photo courtesy Kawasaki Motors Europe.
Alex Lowes. Photo courtesy Kawasaki Motors Europe.

Lowes Signs For 2025 Bimota By Kawasaki Racing Team Project

After the announcement of the Bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team project for the 2025 season current KRT rider Alex Lowes has signed an agreement to race the new machine in the official team.

Lowes is currently a successful official Kawasaki rider in WorldSBK, having won two races at the opening round of the season in Australia. He is fourth in the championship on the eve of the fourth round, which will be held at the Misano World Circuit ‘Marco Simoncelli.’

Lowes’ participation delivers a high level of continuity for the otherwise new project as he will be working alongside many of the staff that he has built-up a strong personal and working relationship with, in what is now his fifth year inside KRT.

The exiting new initiative is another reason for Lowes to feel optimistic about his future, especially as his progress has been developing year-on-year inside the official KRT squad. Lowes is also the most experienced rider in the team this year and in response Alex has grown into his new role as the senior competitor in a highly positive and confident fashion. His two 2024 race wins so far have already proved that his trust in his team and the latest technical package have been well-placed.

With most of the 2024 season still ahead of him Lowes is ready to work hard to continue in the strong fashion he and the Ninja ZX-10RR have already demonstrated after three rounds of the 12-round championship. Nine rounds, including the imminent one at Misano, remain in the 2024 campaign.  

Alex Lowes, stated: “I believe this opportunity has come at the correct time. Along with Bimota, Kawasaki are putting huge effort into this new project. Utilising Kawasaki’s nearly 40 years of Superbike racing knowledge and success and also my personal experience with different manufacturers I believe this gives us the best chance to start from the best possible position with the new bike. I have shown that I am still improving and still fast and competitive at the front of WorldSBK. A big thank you to KMC, Bimota and Provec Racing for the faith shown in me. I’m happy to continue to be part of our racing family! I’m enjoying my racing a lot and we still have a lot to focus on during 2024. We had a nice start to the season with a couple of race victories but now our focus is on Misano. It’s a track I really enjoy, we had a test here recently and I felt strong on the bike let’s work hard focus and see what results we can take this weekend. Arigato, Grazie Mille, Muchas Gracias and Thank you!”

Attending the Misano round of WorldSBK in person, Shigemi Tanaka, General Manager, Marketing & Sales Division, Kawasaki Motors, Ltd. commented: “On behalf of Kawasaki and Bimota, we are delighted to secure the services of Alex Lowes for the Bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team. His experience and racecraft are considerable assets plus he has a positive and personal history with many of the staff he will work with on this exciting new racing project. Now Alex can concentrate on yet more success across the rest of the 2024 without distraction while preparations continue for the new team.”

Guim Roda, KRT Team Manager, stated: “With Alex we are on a great journey. We started in Covid times in a difficult season for him to get his racing rhythm, and in ‘21 and ‘22 he suffered various injuries that did not allow him to show his true potential. But he still showed his speed and other qualities in those years. Now is time to take consistency to a new level. Lately rule limitations did not allow us to extract all the potential of our ZX-10RR, but this season we had possibilities to upgrade certain areas on the bike and that has certainly helped Alex. He has a very good mind set, and he has become a good ambassador for Kawasaki. We want to continue with solid our structure next season, and we have next challenges to achieve with BbKRT project so we need all our best tools to make it good. Therefore  we are super happy that Alex was positive to continue with us despite other offers he had. For sure now we all can move forward focused to finish 2024 season, and start making more history in 2025”.

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