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Dainese Opening D-Store In Atlanta

Dainese Group Announces Grand Opening of Atlanta Flagship Location

An Experience with Racing Memorabilia and Full Lines of Protective Wear from Dainese Group Brands; Dainese, AGV Helmets, and TCX Footwear

Atlanta, Georgia. – Dainese (www.dainese.com), the world leader of protective wear for dynamic sports, today announced the grand opening of its latest flagship retail location in Atlanta.

The new Atlanta D-Store retail location offers an extensive range of Dainese’s cutting-edge motorcycle apparel, including leather suits, jackets, pants, gloves, boots, and advanced protective gear. With a reputation built on decades of innovation and commitment to rider safety, Dainese continues to push boundaries in technology, design, and craftsmanship, catering to the evolving needs of the motorcycle community. Product highlights include the world’s first and most advanced wearable airbag system for any type of motorcyclist. From D-air racing suits and jackets for street and touring and the versatile Smart Jacket, a state-of-the-art airbag vest that can be worn with any garment.

Visitors to the Atlanta D-Store can experience Dainese’s Custom Works program and design the racing suit of their dreams with full personalization, including colors, graphic art, logos, and more. The innovative line of AGV Helmets will also be available, including the just-launched Streetmodular, K6, Pista GP RR Limited Edition helmets along with the AX-9, and Legends Collection. As well as the full 2023 footwear collection for TCX Boots built with maximum protection and comfort on – and off-road, for all four seasons.

“Every Dainese store throughout the country is its own unique experience, the Atlanta store is a testament to that, and we’re very excited to be opening our doors in this diverse and dynamic city that is one of the more enthusiastic markets for the motorcycle industry,” said Louis Ortega, General Manager, Dainese North America. “We look forward to our new location becoming a premier destination for the vibrant motorcycle community within the Atlanta area, offering opportunities for group rides, events, and fostering community connections.”

Dainese Atlanta is conveniently located at 2905 Cobb Pkwy SE Suite 110, Atlanta, GA 30339, just off the 75 expressway Cumberland Mall exit. In addition to the store’s retail offerings, Dainese Atlanta will regularly host group rides and meetups, fostering a sense of community among local riders.

 

DAINESE GROUP

Dainese is the global leader in superior quality protection equipment and apparel for motorcycling and other dynamic sports. Headquartered in Vicenza, Italy, the company employs more than 1,000 employees and is present across EMEA, APAC and the Americas. Dainese owns three powerful brands (Dainese, AGV and TCX) synonymous with innovation and technical excellence. It is present in 96 countries through long-standing relationships with top-tier wholesale partners, 38 directly operated destination stores and a direct e-commerce channel. Founded in 1972 by Lino Dainese, the Dainese Group develops cutting-edge protective clothing for use when practicing dynamic sports: Motorcycle riding, winter sports, cycling, horse riding, and sailing. Dainese, AGV, and TCX products represent the technological frontier in terms of protection in dynamic sports, and are used by the world’s best athletes, from Valentino Rossi to Sofia, Olympic skiing champion and winner of the World Cup Downhill title.

Friends Of Laguna Seca Hires Racetrack Veteran As CEO

FRIENDS OF LAGUNA SECA ANNOUNCES CEO

Longtime motorsports executive Lauri Eberhart takes the helm as Friends of Laguna Seca prepares to assume management of the Laguna Seca Recreation Area

Monterey, Calif. (May 8, 2024) – Friends of Laguna Seca (FLS) is excited to announce that Lauri Eberhart, Esq. has been named CEO of the Monterey County-based non-profit organization. FLS is poised to take over management of the historic Laguna Seca Recreation Area following the approval of a 50-year concession agreement.

Lauri Eberhart. Photo courtesy Friends of Laguna Seca.
Lauri Eberhart. Photo courtesy Friends of Laguna Seca.

“Lauri brings a wealth of legal, sports and entertainment industry experience and expertise to FLS,” said Ross Merrill, president of Friends of Laguna Seca. “Her skillset melds perfectly with our existing resources and partnerships as we step into the long-term concession at the Laguna Seca Recreation Area. FLS is extremely excited to welcome Lauri to our team.”

Motorsports and facility management are in Eberhart’s DNA. She ran the day-to-day operations of Charlotte Motor Speedway for three years and served as General Counsel of Speedway Motorsports and Charlotte Motor Speedway for more than 12 years. Eberhart also worked at Michigan International Speedway and Richmond Raceway. During her career she has participated in the negotiation, structuring and closing of high-profile sports corporate transactions valued at over $5 billion and has advised on hundreds of significant motorsports events.

“From my first interaction with Lauri it was obvious that she shared our passion and vision for the future of Laguna Seca,” said Bruce Canepa, vice president, Friends of Laguna Seca. “Her background includes a wealth of motorsports experience that will lead us to a greatly improved Laguna Seca that will benefit the community, motorsports and fans.”

Eberhart joins FLS at a critical time as the group begins crucial assessments of the overall facility to make necessary improvements that will reestablish WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca as America’s premier road course. FLS will focus on upgrading key fan amenities, as well as much-needed investments in basic structural and functional elements to repair many years of deferred maintenance, neglect and lack of investment. All raceway events will continue as scheduled during this time.

“Laguna Seca is one of America’s most historic race circuits. I am excited and honored by this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to lead the charge as Friends of Laguna Seca reimagines and reconstructs this incredible raceway to begin a new chapter,” said Eberhart. “I look forward to partnering with our neighbors, the greater community, the raceway staff and Monterey County to ensure the raceway’s success benefits the community and the entire racing world for decades to come.”

2024 WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca Schedule:

May 3-5 – Laguna Seca SpeedTour (Trans Am)

May 10-12 – Motul Course de Monterey powered by Hyundai N (IMSA)

May 17-19 – Ferrari Racing Days

June 21-23 – Firestone Grand Prix of Monterey (NTT INDYCAR)

July 12-14 – MotoAmerica Superbike SpeedFest at Monterey

August 10-11 – Monterey Pre-Reunion & Community Day

August 14-17 – Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion

September 27-29 – GRIDLIFE Laguna

UtahSBA: Norton Wins Four At Snow-Affected Opening Weekend

Utah Sportbike Association Kicks Off 2024 Season!

The Utah Sport Bike Association (UtahSBA) was pleased to kick off the 2024 season of the Utah Motorcycle Law Masters of the Mountains race series on May 3-4. After abandoning a two-day race schedule during the COVID-19 pandemic, and being unable to race the East track configuration at Utah Motorsports Campus (UMC) due to deteriorating air fence, the UtahSBA not only made a long awaited return to a two-day race schedule, but did so on the East track configuration with updated air fence. Additional changes of note for the 2024 season include purse money for select race classes and a revised class structure that more closely resembles MotoAmerica rules.

With the premier King of the Mountains race canceled due to a snowstorm, the highlight race of the weekend turned out to be the Outlaw Garage Novice GTO race. Points were spread across two days of racing and with Outlaw Garage providing a cash payout for weekend finishing positions one through five, on-track action was intense.

The UtahSBA wants to invite all club racers to join us May 25-26, 2024, for round two at Utah Motorsports Campus, on the West track configuration, where the premier King of the Mountains class will be issuing a double cash payout.

Last but certainly not least, the UtahSBA wishes to thank our generous sponsors, volunteers, racers, and families. Without your support club racing in Utah would be much less gooder.

The Utah Sport Bike Association is a Utah Non-Profit dedicated to promoting education, safe riding, and competition in the Intermountain West. You can find more information about the USBA, upcoming events, and schools at www.utahsba.com or find us on Facebook.

 

USBA Round 1 – UMC East – May 4th-5th, 2024
 
Combined GTU

1. Daniel Christiani (YAM R7)

2. Brandon Morgan (TRI 675)

3. Owen Austad (KAW ZX-6R)

4. Hunter Underhill (YAM R6)

5. Jordan DeJarnett (YAM R6)

6. Trever Nosack (HON CBR600RR)
 

 

The Edge Powersports Deseret Dash – Expert Saturday

1. Anthony Norton (KAW ZX-10R)

2. Michael Bradshaw (KAW ZX-10R)

3. Louis Saccoccio (YAM R1)

4. Christopher Mousley (YAM R1)

5. Steven Marco (YAM R1)

6. John Tran (BMW S 1000 RR)
 

 

The Edge Powersports Deseret Dash – Novice Saturday

1. James Walker (YAM R1)

2. Daniel Christiani (YAM R6)

3. Nathan Richey (DUC 1199)

4. Richard Umpleby (BMW S 1000 RR)

5. Justin Drake (YAM R1)

6. Landon Mattson (SUZ GSX-R600)

 

Trackstar Racing Formula 40 – GTO

1. Christopher Mousley (YAM R1)

2. John Tran (BMW S 1000 RR)

3. Steven Marco (YAM R1)

4. Michael Bradshaw (KAW ZX-10R)

5. Louis Saccoccio (YAM R1)

6. Max Tseng (YAM R1)

 

Eurosports Utah Formula 40 – GTU

1. Jason Johnson (DUC 848)

2. Brian Larrabure (Pierobon X60)

3. Mark Taylor (KAW ZX-6R)

4. John Carver (YAM R7)

5. James Mejias (HON CBR600RR)

6. Hunter Underhill (YAM R6)
 

 

The Weekend Garage Middleweight Superbike GP – Saturday

1. Christopher Mousley (ZX-6R)

2. Nolan Kiiskila (KTM RC 8C)

3. Zach Jenson (YAM R6)

4. Scott Christensen (YAM R6)

5. Jeff Leeman (YAM R6)

6. Josheph Ruck (YAM R6)

 

The Weekend Garage Middleweight Superbike GP – Sunday

1. Josh Dyer (YAM R6)

2. Nolan Kiiskila (KTM RC8C)
 

 

Modern Vintage – GTO

1. Kohl Burmester (BMW S 1000 RR)

2. Michael Arnie (YAM R6)

3. Chris Golmon (SUZ GSX-R600)

 

Modern Vintage – GTU

1. Alban Bonilla (HON CBR600RR)

2. Jason Johnson (DUC 848)

3. Jordan DeJarnett (YAM R6)

4. Brandon Morgan (TRI 675)

5. Trever Nosack (HON CBR600RR)

6. Mikah Fathers (TRI 675)

 

Karl Malone Powersports Moto 2 – Expert

1. Christopher Mousley (KAW ZX-6R)

2. Scott Christensen (YAM R6)

3. Jeff Leeman (YAM R6)

 

Moto 2 – Novice

1. Aubrey Credaroli (YAM R6)

2. Brian Cassel (YAM R6)

3. Daniel Christiani (YAM R6)

 

 

Redline Realty Moto 3 GP – Saturday

1. Mark Taylor (KAW ZX-4R)

2. Raab Gisseman (HON RS125)

3. Ian Nielsen (KTM RC 390)

4. Stetson Dickinson (YAM R3)

5. Kirby Wadle (KAW 400)

6. Kenny Hutton (KTM 390)

 

Redline Realty Moto 3 GP – Sunday

1. Raab Gisseman (HON RS125)

2. Stetson Dickinson (YAM R3)

 

Outlaw Garage Novice GTO GP – Saturday

1. Nathan Richey (DUC 1199)

2. Daniel Christiani (YAM R6)

3. Aubrey Credaroli (YAM R6)

4. Kohl Burmester (BMW S 1000 RR)

5. Richard Umpleby (BMW S 1000 RR)

6. Justin Drake (YAM R1)

 

Outlaw Garage Novice GTO GP – Sunday

1. James Walker (YAM R1)

2. Nathan Richey (DUC 1199)

3. Kohl Burmester (BMW S 1000 RR)

4. Daniel Christiani (YAM R6)

5. Miguel Alamillo (SUZ GSX-R1000)

6. Richard Umpleby (BMW S 1000 RR)

 

GT Title Services Inc Novice GTU GP – Saturday

1. Brian Cassel (YAM R6)

2. Justin McMillan (YAM R6)

3. Michael Arnie (YAM R6)

4. Landon Mattson (SUZ GSX-R600)

5. Owen Ausad (KAW ZX-6R)

6. Zachary Scoggins (TRI 675)

 

GT Title Services Inc Novice GTU GP – Sunday

1. Brian Cassel (YAM R6)

2. Michael Arnie (YAM R6)

3. Brandon Morgan (TRI 675)

4. Cassie Creer (KAW ZX-6R)

5. Owen Ausad (KAW ZX-6R)

6. John Acuma (YAM R6)

 

Vortex Racing Open Superbike GP – Saturday

1. Anthony Norton (ZX-10R)

2. John Tran (BMW S 1000 RR)

3. Louis Saccoccio (YAM R1)

4. Steven Marco (YAM R1)

5. Max Tseng (YAM R1)

 

Vortex Racing Open Superbike GP – Sunday

1. Anthony Norton (ZX-10R)

2. Louis Saccoccio (YAM R1)

3. John Tran (BMW S 1000 RR)

4. Steven Marco (YAM R1)

5. Christopher Mousley (YAM R1)

6. Alban Bonilla (BMW S 1000 RR)

 

Crossbeam Builders Open Twins

1. Jason Johnson (DUC 848)

2. Nolan Kiiskila (KTM RC 8C)

3. Zachary Scoggins (TRI 675)

4. Ian Jenson (DUC V2)

5. Joseph Ruck (KTM SMR450)

6. John Carver (YAM R7)

 

ARJ Investing Sportsman

1. Brandon Morgan (TRI 675)

2. Cassie Creer (KAW ZX-6R)

3. Isaac Loynd (TRI Street Triple)

4. Trever Nosack (HON CBR600RR)

5. Mikah Fathers (TRI 675)

6. Stetson Dickinson (YAM R3)

 

Stock 1000 – Expert

1. Anthony Norton (KAW ZX-10R)

2. Brian Childree (APR RSV4)

3. Jeff Taylor (YAM R1)

4. Louis Saccoccio (YAM R1)

5. Christopher Mousley (YAM R1)

6. Steven Marco (YAM R1)

 

Stock 1000 – Novice

1. James Walker (YAM R1)

2. Kohl Burmester (BMW S 1000 RR)

3. Nathan Richey (DUC 1199)

4. Richard Umpleby (BMW S 1000 RR)

5. Justin Drake (YAM R1)

6. Ian Jenson (DUC V2)

 

Chicane Performance Super Street Bike GP

1. David Meyer (APR Tuono)

2. Alex Zinaich (YAM FZ-10)

3. Alex Campbell (YAM R6)

4. Sean Schmidt (KTM Duke 790)

5. Carlin Merrill (BMW S 1000 RR)

 

BCA Medical Consultants Lightweight GP – Saturday

1. Mark Taylor (KAW ZX-4R)

2. Raab Gisseman (HON RS125)

3. Ian Nielson (KTM RC 390)

4. Kyle Kacprzynski (KAW 400)

5. Kirby Wadle (KAW 400)

 

BCA Medical Consultants Lightweight GP – Sunday

1. Raab Gisseman (HON RS125)

2. Kyle Kacprzynski (KAW 400)

3. Gary Yost (SUZ SV650)

4. Ian Nielson (KTM RC 390)

 

Ultra Lightweight Superbike

1. Raab Gisseman (HON RS125)

2. Kyle Kacprzynski (KAW 400)

3. Kenny Hutton (KTM RC 390)

4. Stetson Dickinson (YAM R3)

5. Kirby Wadle (KAW 400)

6. Zachery Harston (KAW EX500)

 

Trackstart Racing Lightweight Superbike

1. John Carver (YAM R7)

2. Ian Nielson (KTM RC 390)

 

“Rainey’s Ride To The Races” Returning July 12 With New Legends

Fourth Annual “Rainey’s Ride To The Races” Set For Laguna Seca On July 12

Ride With The Legends On The Monterey Peninsula Before Enjoying A Weekend Full Of MotoAmerica Action

IRVINE, CA (May 8, 2024) – If you want the opportunity to spend a day riding motorcycles and hanging out at the racetrack with racers who have won 32 AMA National Championships and eight World Championships, then you should move “Rainey’s Ride To The Races” to the top of your bucket list.

MotoAmerica, North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series, is excited to announce that the fourth annual “Rainey’s Ride To The Races” will again take place on the Monterey Peninsula on July 12 in conjunction with the sixth round of the MotoAmerica Steel Commander Superbike Championship at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. And this year’s ride boasts even more racing legends than the previous year’s.

This year’s ride includes the following legends:

Four-time World Champion Eddie Lawson

Three-time AMA Grand National Champion and 1988 AMA Superbike Champion Bubba Shobert

Seven-time Supercross and Motocross National Champion Rick Johnson

Nine-time AMA Grand National Champion Scott Parker

Three-time AMA Superbike Champion Doug Chandler

1991 AMA Superbike Champion Thomas Stevens

1996 AMA Superbike Champion Miguel Duhamel

Three-time AMA Superbike and 2009 World Superbike Champion Ben Spies 

Rainey’s Ride To The Races will be held on Friday, July 12, opening day of the sixth round of the MotoAmerica Championship, and will again benefit the Roadracing World Action Fund, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that promotes motorcycle racing safety with the facilitation of soft barrier systems at racing events.

“I’m really proud of what ‘Rainey’s Ride To The Races’ has become,” said MotoAmerica President and three-time World Champion Wayne Rainey. “We’ve raised nearly $325,000 since we started the ride three years ago, and that money has gone to a worthy cause – acquiring soft barrier systems we use at our races for improved rider safety. We’ve always had good support from legends in the sport and this year’s event will showcase even more motorcycle racing heroes – Eddie Lawson, Bubba Shobert, Rick Johnson, Scott Parker, Doug Chandler, Thomas Stevens, Miguel Duhamel, and Ben Spies. I think it’s great the legends are giving back to the sport that gave them so much, and they all understand the importance of rider safety. I really appreciate these guys coming to Laguna Seca to join the ride.”

The 100-mile ride will begin at the Moto Talbott Motorcycle Museum in Carmel Valley, California, and will tour the best parts of the Monterey Peninsula, including in and around the Santa Lucia Mountain ranges, the Salinas Valley foothills, local wineries, and the stunning Steinbeck country. The ride will conclude at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca with two laps around the racetrack, lunch, and a Q&A session at the Turn 3 Paddock Suite with legends Rainey, Lawson, Shobert, Johnson, Parker, Chandler, Stevens, Duhamel, and Spies.

The ride will be limited to 50 riders who purchase the special $700 Premium “Rainey’s Ride To The Races” Ticket, which includes the Q&A session and lunch with the legends in the climate-controlled Turn 3 Paddock Suite on Friday. While a three-day general admission ticket is included in the donation, for an additional $700, “Rainey’s Ride To The Races” ticket purchasers can upgrade to the MotoAmerica Superfan VIP Experience in the Turn 3 Paddock Suite for the entire weekend.

To purchase tickets for Rainey’s Ride To The Races, click HERE

For more information on the Roadracing World Action Fund, click HERE

About MotoAmerica

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

Moto Guzzi USA Announces Northeast Demo Tour

MOTO GUZZI USA INVITES NORTHEAST RIDERS TO EXPERIENCE THE LATEST MACHINERY FROM THE HISTORIC ITALIAN MARQUE 2024 DEMO TOUR 

NEW YORK, NY — MAY 8, 2024 — Moto Guzzi USA is thrilled to announce its Northeast Demo Tour, giving passionate motorcyclists across the region the chance to experience the thrill of riding one of the 2024 Moto Guzzi range firsthand.

 

Experience New Roads with Moto Guzzi

The tour will visit dealerships throughout the Northeastern region, with event dates scheduled below, and more to be added. 

 

May 18

Wide World Motoplex West Chester

315 Westtown Rd, West Chester, PA 19382

 

May 29 – June 2

Americade

48 Canada St, Lake George, NY 12845

 

June 14

Blackmans 

4911 Buckeye RD, Emmaus, PA 18049

 

June 15

Flemington Powersports

300 US-202, Flemington, NJ 08822

 

June 21

North American Warhorse

1000 Dunham Dr, Dunmore, PA 18512

 

June 22

BMG Powersports 

2677 NY-17M, Goshen, NY 10924

 

July 13

Peake Offroad

6551 Pratt Rd, Williamson, NY 14589

 

July 19

Xtreme Power Sports

418 S. Main St., Accident, MD 21520

 

July 20

Moto Richmond 

6000 Midlothian Tpke, Richmond, VA 23225

 

July 27

Hamlin Cycles

44 Grassy Plain St, Bethel, CT 06801

 

August 10

Seacoast Powersports

19 Lafayette Rd, Hampton Falls, NH 03844

 

August 17

Razee Cycles

730 Tower Hill Rd, North Kingstown, RI 02852

 

September 14 

Kissel Motorsports 

*In Conjunction with 2024 PA Moto Guzzi Rally*

5165 E Pleasant Valley Blvd, Tyrone, PA 16686

 

The Complete Moto Guzzi Experience

Attendees will have the opportunity to get behind bars of the newest Moto Guzzi models, including the new Moto Guzzi Stelvio which has returns for 2024 and is ready for your next adventure, the iconic V7 range, with a namesake that extends more then 50 years offering a character-rich, classic style, and with the technologically advanced arrival of the Moto Guzzi V100 Mandello, there’s a Moto Guzzi for every riding style.

 

Expert Staff on Hand

Knowledgeable Moto Guzzi staff will be on hand at every location to answer questions, provide expert advice, and lead guided rides. This is the perfect opportunity to learn more about the Moto Guzzi brand and discover the perfect Italian machine for your next adventure.

 

For More Information on the Tour and Locations, Please Visit: 

https://www.motoguzzi.com/us_EN/moto-guzzi-world/news-moto-guzzi/northeast-demo-tour/

North West 200: Irwin Breaks Lap Record In Superbike Q1

GLENN IRWIN LAPS FASTER THAN THE EXISTING OUTRIGHT LAP RECORD TO CLAIM PROVISIONAL SUPERBIKE POLE ON FIRST DAY OF QUALIFYING AT THE 2024 BRIGGS EQUIPMENT NORTH WEST 200.

 

Glenn Irwin dipped under the official lap record on a day of glorious sunshine on the north coast to claim [provisional] pole position in the Superbike class after the opening qualifying session of the Briggs Equipment North West 200. The Carrickfergus rider, who is bidding to become the most successful Superbike rider at the north coast event, posted a speed of 124.895mph on the Hager PBM Ducati, 0.2 seconds quicker than Peter Hickman’s official lap record speed of 124.799mph.

“Track conditions were so good out there and the grip levels were surprisingly good too,” said Irwin, who arrived on the north coast fresh from completing a BSB Superbike hat-trick at Oulton Park on Monday.

“We made a change during the session and went the wrong way, but it is still nice to do an unofficial lap record for the fans. This is the best first day I’ve had at the North West and the Ducati is going in a straight line which is great, but I still think the Superbike races will be real dogfights.”

The Superbike session followed the Newcomer’s opening practice as 27 riders took to the 8.9-mile Triangle Course for the first time. The big names were immediately on the pace and made their presence felt during the hour-long qualifying with Davey Todd posting the second-quickest time on his Milwaukee BMW, 1.357 seconds slower than Irwin. Michael Dunlop was third-fastest, 4.261 seconds further back on his new Honda superbike. Peter Hickman (PHR Performance BMW) and Dean Harrison (Honda Racing) set the fourth- and fifth-best marks on their Superstock-spec machines with Ian Hutchinson completing the top six on the Milenco Padgett’s Honda during his comeback ride following illness.

John McGuinness (Honda Racing), who was sporting a special helmet celebrating his 30 years of racing at the North West, James Hillier (WTF Honda), Finland Erno Kostamo (Penz13.com BMW) and Conor Cummins (Milenco Padgetts Honda) completed the top ten quickest times.

Next up were the Supersport machines and Richard Cooper indicated his hopes of winning both Supersport races at this year’s NW200 are well founded as he claimed provisional pole on the Russell Racing/BPE Yamaha. The 41-year-old was 0.815 seconds faster than Davey Todd on the Powermate Tools Ducati with Michael Dunlop 4.6 seconds slower than Todd on his MD Racing Triumph.

“There were no issues and things went exactly the way I hoped they would during that session,” Cooper said, before indicating he felt he would be up against it in trying to beat Todd’s Ducati.

“I reeled off nearly race distance and used the same tyres through the whole session. But I also had a very good look at the opposition and although I am mentioning no names, I know it is going to be difficult to win when there is a clear difference in cc’s and that difference is not to my advantage.”

Cooper’s Russell Racing/BPE Yamaha teammate, Mike Browne, was fourth-fastest in the class with Peter Hickman (Trooper Beer Triumph) and Paul Jordan (Jackson Racing Honda) completing the leaderboard. 

The winner of Monday’s British championship Superstock race at Oulton, Davey Todd produced another strong performance during the Stocker qualifying session to top the timesheets on the Milwaukee Tools BMW.

“I just wanted to be comfortable out there today and to make sure the bikes were running alright,” the Saltburn by the Sea rider said, smiling after lapping just 1.5 seconds slower than Alastair Seeley’s lap record in the class. “The weather has been great, but I can’t believe the lap times. It is really exciting that we are running near lap record pace on day one. We couldn’t wish for anything better. But we had done the work before we came here. The bikes are awesome because the guys in the team have done a fantastic job. They know this place inside out having won here so many times and I hope I can add some more to that tally. We had a few little problems with the superbike but we have those ironed out and hopefully we can challenge Glenn at the front on the big bike now.”

Dean Harrison was just half a second slower than Todd on the Honda Racing Fireblade as a chronic lack of parts has forced the team to park their Superbike and Supersport-spec machines and confine their racing at Portrush to the Stocker class.

Michael Dunlop was third fastest on his MD Racing Fireblade with Peter Hickman, who also isn’t riding a Superbike-spec machine at this year’s North West, over a second slower than the Ballymoney rider.

Jeremy McWilliams posted the quickest time during the first laps of the Supertwins session on the IFS Bayview Paton before the opening day of action at this year’s NW200 came to a premature end when a crash at Mill road roundabout brought out the red flags. With the roads due to re-open at 3pm the session was brought to a close leaving McWilliams frustrated.

“We aren’t even in the ball park yet with set-up.” the 60-year-old said. “The bike does feel strong but the chassis doesn’t feel like the bike I rode here last year and we need more time.”

Qualifying resumes on Thursday morning with roads closing at 9am.  They will re-open at 3pm before closing again at 4.45pm as three races are set to run during the evening.

The opening event, the Briggs Equipment Superbike race will be the first superbike race to run at the north coast meeting during the Thursday evening programme. It is scheduled to begin at 5.30pm followed by the Fraser Homes Supersport and the Amici Restaurant Superstock races. All three races will be run over four laps.  

2024 Yamaha MT-09: A Decade On, Better Than Ever

Yamaha will tell you that the MT-09 is a hyper naked machine. The lack of fairing screams standard. The messaging surrounding tubular handlebars is all about comfort.

But a day of ripping around on the 2024 version of the bike that started Yamaha’s current performance-oriented Master of Torque (MT) lineup demonstrated that it’s just a ruse.

It’s a sportbike, pure and simple.

It may lack wind protection and clip-on bars, but the thing hauls, handles, and brakes. It flicks hard into corners, holds its composure mid-corner, and barrels out with the front wheel threatening to come off the ground. After about 120 miles of twisty roads in and around San Jose and Santa Cruz in Northern California, I came to the following conclusion. It goes fast, it handles, it makes you feel fast, and if that doesn’t meet the definition of sportbike, nothing does.

Tech Briefing

Yamaha established its three-cylinder hyper naked formula with the 2014 model (known then as the FZ-09) and has stuck with it. The engine has grown from the original 847cc to the 890cc of the current CP3 engine, also found in several other models in Yamaha’s lineup. Horsepower is now a claimed 117.3 bhp at 10,000 rpm, with claimed torque peaking at 68.6 lbs.-ft. at 7,000 rpm.

Changes for 2024 include a new up-and-down quickshifter system that now allows downshifts under acceleration and upshifts while decelerating. A new transmission incorporates different internal gears and six drive dogs instead of the previous five. The idea is to reduce shift lash and smooth out the gear engagement. The new gas tank cover incorporates a pair of screens that enhance the intake sound.

The riding position come from handlebars that are more than an inch and a quarter lower and pegs that are more than an inch further back and slightly higher. The tank cover is about an inch lower and more than two inches wider and is redesigned to better hold the rider’s knees in place during enthusiastic cornering. The seat is now a split design, with rider and passenger having separate seats.

The twin-spar aluminum frame gets minor adjustments to help improve handling and feel. New engine mount brackets are slightly thicker–from 3.2mm to 4.0mm on the left and from 3.2mm to 6.0mm on the right–to increase rigidity in that part of the chassis. A new headstock bracket is thinner to reduce rigidity there. The 41mm KYB forks get stiffer springs, 15N/mm from 14N/mm, and revised damping, and the single KYB shock gets revised damping and a new linkage with a flatter curve. The idea is to generate more stability and less pitch during braking and acceleration, as well as better front-end feel and more consistent feel over a wider range of riding conditions. Proprietary Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S23 tires are mounted over lightweight 10-spoke aluminum-alloy rims.

Ride modes include Rain, Street and Sport, with two custom mode slots available for the rider who wants to fine-tune their personal selection of throttle sensitivity, traction control, slide control, wheelie control, back slip regulation and quickshifter sensitivity. The BSR (Back Slip Regulator) modulates engine brake torque in traction conditions where the slipper clutch is overwhelmed.

The styling is cleaner, the mirrors are new, and the passenger peg mounts are hidden. The new seat is narrower at the front. New switches operate turn signals that now are self-canceling and have a lane-change function–tap the switch and the signal flashes briefly, then turns itself off. The cruise control couldn’t be easier to operate. And there are four different dash display modes, including one that is inspired by a piano–lest we forget, Yamaha makes exquisite pianos.

Riding It

Yamaha’s plan for the machines powered by the CP3 engine includes softer power at the bottom end of the rpm range, with a smooth transition to a punchy mid-range and legit power at the top end. The 2024 MT-09’s throttle response is smooth and direct, even in Sport mode. I switched to Rain mode when riding down a single-lane road where the shadows from massive redwood trees hid the wet patches, and I liked the muted throttle response. Back in Sport mode, wheelies were the norm, and on a section of Pacific Coast Highway shut down for the test ride by the California Highway Patrol, we got to exceed the posted speed limit. Even at speed, the bike felt smooth, calm, and settled. At normal highway speeds, the bike was just loafing, waiting to jump when called.

The bars felt slightly wider than clip-ons, but the lower position did not result in any greater pressure on my wrists. Same with the more rearset pegs – the more aggressive riding position was no less comfortable. The engine didn’t vibrate much, the new mirrors worked, and the cruise control was responsive and sophisticated. I’ve quit apologizing for loving cruise control. I think it makes a long ride so much less taxing.

 

The 2024 Yamaha MT-09 has a revised riding position, with lower handlebars and footpegs moved rearward. Photo by Joseph Agustin.

 

The new riding position was designed to put the rider in a more forward stance, and it felt like it gave me a more direct connection to the front wheel. The chassis changes didn’t hurt, and while the suspension components are not the most sophisticated, the bike was stable going into corners over roads bumpy enough to get the rear wheel airborne, and the machine was planted mid-corner. Yamaha got the suspension pretty close.

The Brembo radial front master cylinder felt solid and works with a pair of Advics calipers and 298mm twin discs up front. And, as I have noted in several of my past MT-09 reviews, there was definitely a rear brake attached to the machine. What it does, I have no idea.

The new quickshfter system is one of the best I’ve used. The seat is plenty comfortable. I wish there was a way to bypass the two Custom ride modes and just use the Mode button to toggle through Rain, Street and Sport, but isn’t that a first-world problem?

Yamaha got the original FZ-09 right and has spent a decade honing the bike. This version is the best one yet. Yeah, it’s fairing-free, clip on-free, etc., but the MT-09 is a sportbike just the same.

 

 

 

 

Yamaha Champions Riding School Holding Three Events At Repaved NJMP

Three Events at New Jersey Motorsports Park!

New Jersey Motorsport Park is a fantastic facility for ChampSchool. Great classroom, a great restaurant, hotel rooms above the garages, and a huge paddock for ChampStreet…but the surface of the race track has seen better days. Guess what? NJMP is getting repaved and the May ChampSchool is your first opportunity to ride the new surface. We are ecstatic!

We will hold three events at NJMP this year. May 14 – 15, June 18 – 19, and September 10 -11 with our game-changing 2-ChampSchool.  

We will have a complete selection of Yamaha MT-07’s, MT-03’s, MT-09’s, YZF-R6’s, YZF-R3’s and YZF-R7’s available for a true “arrive and ride” experience for our 2-Day ChampSchool program. These rental options are not available for ChampStreet. You can sign up for a ChampSchool rental at registration. Don’t have leathers? Traveling light? We world’s best safety gear from Dainese and Arai. We will have a huge inventory of Dainese leathers, boots, gloves, back protectors and helmets available. Make sure you sign up early with your sizing.

Each Day at each of our three events, will feature our 1-Day ChampStreet experience. ChampStreet will be an 8-hour class held in the huge NJMP paddock area, and speed-controlled laps on the track. Derived from our 2-Day ChampSchool program, ChampStreet is like “ChampSchool Lite” and is designed for street riders of all levels. The course is taught at highway speeds on your street motorcycle with your street gear, no leathers required.

All of our in-person schools come with complimentary access to our Online Champ U: Core Curriculum. This gives every student the opportunity to study the curriculum before you get to the event. This base layer of information greatly improves the experience and internalization of information.  Email [email protected] with any questions.

Exclusive Aprilia Pro Experience Coming To Misano On June 9

The exclusive Aprilia Pro Experience is back in Misano on 9 June

A UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY, A DREAM DAY FOR ANY ENTHUSIAST

ON THE TRACK WITH THE APRILIA SUPERSPORT BIKES, RIDDEN BY GREAT CHAMPIONS, EXTRAORDINARY TALENT, ACTING AS COACHES:

SIX-TIME WORLD CHAMPION AND MOTOGP LEGEND MAX BIAGGI AND APRILIA MOTOGP RIDERS MIGUEL OLIVEIRA AND LORENZO SAVADORI

SPECIAL GUESTS APRILIA RACING MOTOGP RIDERS ALEIX ESPARGARÓ AND MAVERICK VIÑALES

INFO AND BOOKING ON APRILIA.COM

The Aprilia Pro Experience is back, a dream day that allows an extremely limited number of enthusiasts to get out on the track along with some of the best riders in the world, on hand exceptionally as coaches.

The event will take place at Misano World Circuit on Sunday, 9 June in the wake of the 2024 edition of Aprilia All Stars, the huge festival starring the riders and bikes which have made Aprilia the European brand with the most victories in World Championship GP Motorcycle Racing, which will liven up the Romagna track on Saturday, 8 June.

Aprilia Pro Experience is not “just” a super exclusive track riding course. It is an extremely high level racing experience – a dream come true for any motorcyclist – on one of the few tracks in the world that is a venue for both MotoGP and WSBK rounds. The lucky participants will climb into the saddle of the extraordinary Aprilia RSV4 Factory ridden by three exceptional “super coaches”: MotoGP legend Max Biaggi, four-time 250 class World Champion and two-time World Superbike Champion, 5-time MotoGP Grand Prix race winner Miguel Oliveira, current Aprilia rider on team Trackhouse, and Lorenzo Savadori, Aprilia Racing MotoGP rider and tester.

During the day, the other Aprilia Racing MotoGP riders will also be present: the two factory riders, Aleix Espargaró and Maverick Viñales, as well as Raúl Fernández, Oliveira’s teammate on team Trackhouse, for yet another unique opportunity to create unforgettable moments.

The Experience event, open to just 20 participants, will take up the entire day. The key moments will obviously be the track sessions, for a total of six, twenty-minute turns. Each of the three coaches will follow a small number of riders in turn, in order to be certain that they’ll be able to dedicate full attention to each rider and to ensure each participant at least one turn with each of the super coaches, even during the garage training activities.

The Aprilia RSV4 Factory bikes available to the participants will be the most technologically advanced version of the bike which has won seven WSBK titles, and they will be shod with high-performance Pirelli Diablo Superbike compound tyres – the ideal choice for track days.
There will be a briefing and debriefing ahead of an following each session with analysis of the onboard videos obtained thanks to cameras installed on each bike. This exclusive event will also include lunch in the Aprilia hospitality area and a dedicated photo shoot.

But that’s not all. The exclusive package also includes a lap around the track as passenger to one of the Aprilia Racing riders on the Aprilia RSV4 two-seater, and one of the sessions entering the track directly from the Aprilia Racing MotoGP garage. During the day, the participants will also be able to see the Aprilia RS-GP prototype start up, protagonist in the 2024 MotoGP World Championship.

The Aprilia Pro Experience in Misano is available at a price of €2,950 ($3,173 USD). All information and how to book and participate are available at this link:
www.aprilia.com/it_IT/aprilia-pro-experience/

WorldSBK: Magny-Cours Hosting World Championship Through 2027

WorldSBK and Circuit de Nevers Magny-Cours extend partnership until 2027

WorldSBK and Circuit de Nevers Magny-Cours, one of France’s premier racing venues, are thrilled to announce the extension of their partnership, securing Circuit de Nevers Magny-Cours’ presence on the calendar until 2027.

The renewed agreement solidifies a new three-year contract, spanning the 2025, 2026, and 2027 seasons, emphasizing the mutual commitment to the continued growth and success of the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship. The announcement follows the success of the 2023 edition of the event, where attendance figures soared, exceeding pre-pandemic levels and establishing a robust foundation for the event’s future growth.

“We are pleased to continue our collaboration with the Circuit de Nevers Magny-Cours,” said Gregorio Lavilla, WorldSBK Executive Director. “The circuit has consistently delivered great racing moments and showcased the passion and dedication of the French fans. This extension reflects our shared commitment to providing the best possible experience for both riders and spectators. We look forward to the next years of competition at this world-class facility.”

Nestled in the picturesque Nievre department, Circuit de Nevers Magny-Cours has been a favourite among riders and fans for its challenging layout, technical sections, and enthusiastic spectator base. The commitment of the Nievre local government to the support of WorldSBK events at the circuit is unwavering, with an ongoing partnership that ensures the circuit is devoted to promoting and fostering the socio-economic development of the Nievre region.

As part of this commitment, a state-of-the-art race control room made its WorldSBK debut during the 2023 event. The infrastructure upgrade, featuring new monitoring facilities, was made possible through a joint effort between Circuit de Nevers Magny-Cours and the Departmental Council of Nievre, an investment integral to maintaining the circuit’s Grade B homologation.

Serge Saulnier, Chairman of the Board, Circuit de Nevers Magny-Cours, expressed satisfaction about the extended partnership, stating, “Extending our agreement is the result of close collaboration between Dorna teams and Magny-Cours Circuit. 2024 will mark the 22nd year of hosting the French WorldSBK round, a testament to the enduring loyalty between this championship and Magny-Cours. Our teams, supported by La Nievre department, consistently strive to enhance our infrastructure and ensure the safety of competitors. We eagerly anticipate welcoming WorldSBK fans to Magny-Cours on September 6th, 7th, and 8th.”

The extended partnership marks a new milestone for both WorldSBK and Circuit de Nevers Magny-Cours, reinforcing their dedication to delivering world-class racing experiences. As the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship continues to captivate audiences around the globe, the collaboration between these two entities ensures that the French Round remains a highlight on the racing calendar for years to come.

Dainese Opening D-Store In Atlanta

The Dainese D-Store in Atlanta, Georgia. Photo courtesy Dainese.
The Dainese D-Store in Atlanta, Georgia. Photo courtesy Dainese.

Dainese Group Announces Grand Opening of Atlanta Flagship Location

An Experience with Racing Memorabilia and Full Lines of Protective Wear from Dainese Group Brands; Dainese, AGV Helmets, and TCX Footwear

Atlanta, Georgia. – Dainese (www.dainese.com), the world leader of protective wear for dynamic sports, today announced the grand opening of its latest flagship retail location in Atlanta.

The new Atlanta D-Store retail location offers an extensive range of Dainese’s cutting-edge motorcycle apparel, including leather suits, jackets, pants, gloves, boots, and advanced protective gear. With a reputation built on decades of innovation and commitment to rider safety, Dainese continues to push boundaries in technology, design, and craftsmanship, catering to the evolving needs of the motorcycle community. Product highlights include the world’s first and most advanced wearable airbag system for any type of motorcyclist. From D-air racing suits and jackets for street and touring and the versatile Smart Jacket, a state-of-the-art airbag vest that can be worn with any garment.

Visitors to the Atlanta D-Store can experience Dainese’s Custom Works program and design the racing suit of their dreams with full personalization, including colors, graphic art, logos, and more. The innovative line of AGV Helmets will also be available, including the just-launched Streetmodular, K6, Pista GP RR Limited Edition helmets along with the AX-9, and Legends Collection. As well as the full 2023 footwear collection for TCX Boots built with maximum protection and comfort on – and off-road, for all four seasons.

“Every Dainese store throughout the country is its own unique experience, the Atlanta store is a testament to that, and we’re very excited to be opening our doors in this diverse and dynamic city that is one of the more enthusiastic markets for the motorcycle industry,” said Louis Ortega, General Manager, Dainese North America. “We look forward to our new location becoming a premier destination for the vibrant motorcycle community within the Atlanta area, offering opportunities for group rides, events, and fostering community connections.”

Dainese Atlanta is conveniently located at 2905 Cobb Pkwy SE Suite 110, Atlanta, GA 30339, just off the 75 expressway Cumberland Mall exit. In addition to the store’s retail offerings, Dainese Atlanta will regularly host group rides and meetups, fostering a sense of community among local riders.

 

DAINESE GROUP

Dainese is the global leader in superior quality protection equipment and apparel for motorcycling and other dynamic sports. Headquartered in Vicenza, Italy, the company employs more than 1,000 employees and is present across EMEA, APAC and the Americas. Dainese owns three powerful brands (Dainese, AGV and TCX) synonymous with innovation and technical excellence. It is present in 96 countries through long-standing relationships with top-tier wholesale partners, 38 directly operated destination stores and a direct e-commerce channel. Founded in 1972 by Lino Dainese, the Dainese Group develops cutting-edge protective clothing for use when practicing dynamic sports: Motorcycle riding, winter sports, cycling, horse riding, and sailing. Dainese, AGV, and TCX products represent the technological frontier in terms of protection in dynamic sports, and are used by the world’s best athletes, from Valentino Rossi to Sofia, Olympic skiing champion and winner of the World Cup Downhill title.

Friends Of Laguna Seca Hires Racetrack Veteran As CEO

WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca with Turn Five located at the bottom center of the frame. Photo courtesy WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca.
WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. Photo courtesy WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca.

FRIENDS OF LAGUNA SECA ANNOUNCES CEO

Longtime motorsports executive Lauri Eberhart takes the helm as Friends of Laguna Seca prepares to assume management of the Laguna Seca Recreation Area

Monterey, Calif. (May 8, 2024) – Friends of Laguna Seca (FLS) is excited to announce that Lauri Eberhart, Esq. has been named CEO of the Monterey County-based non-profit organization. FLS is poised to take over management of the historic Laguna Seca Recreation Area following the approval of a 50-year concession agreement.

Lauri Eberhart. Photo courtesy Friends of Laguna Seca.
Lauri Eberhart. Photo courtesy Friends of Laguna Seca.

“Lauri brings a wealth of legal, sports and entertainment industry experience and expertise to FLS,” said Ross Merrill, president of Friends of Laguna Seca. “Her skillset melds perfectly with our existing resources and partnerships as we step into the long-term concession at the Laguna Seca Recreation Area. FLS is extremely excited to welcome Lauri to our team.”

Motorsports and facility management are in Eberhart’s DNA. She ran the day-to-day operations of Charlotte Motor Speedway for three years and served as General Counsel of Speedway Motorsports and Charlotte Motor Speedway for more than 12 years. Eberhart also worked at Michigan International Speedway and Richmond Raceway. During her career she has participated in the negotiation, structuring and closing of high-profile sports corporate transactions valued at over $5 billion and has advised on hundreds of significant motorsports events.

“From my first interaction with Lauri it was obvious that she shared our passion and vision for the future of Laguna Seca,” said Bruce Canepa, vice president, Friends of Laguna Seca. “Her background includes a wealth of motorsports experience that will lead us to a greatly improved Laguna Seca that will benefit the community, motorsports and fans.”

Eberhart joins FLS at a critical time as the group begins crucial assessments of the overall facility to make necessary improvements that will reestablish WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca as America’s premier road course. FLS will focus on upgrading key fan amenities, as well as much-needed investments in basic structural and functional elements to repair many years of deferred maintenance, neglect and lack of investment. All raceway events will continue as scheduled during this time.

“Laguna Seca is one of America’s most historic race circuits. I am excited and honored by this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to lead the charge as Friends of Laguna Seca reimagines and reconstructs this incredible raceway to begin a new chapter,” said Eberhart. “I look forward to partnering with our neighbors, the greater community, the raceway staff and Monterey County to ensure the raceway’s success benefits the community and the entire racing world for decades to come.”

2024 WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca Schedule:

May 3-5 – Laguna Seca SpeedTour (Trans Am)

May 10-12 – Motul Course de Monterey powered by Hyundai N (IMSA)

May 17-19 – Ferrari Racing Days

June 21-23 – Firestone Grand Prix of Monterey (NTT INDYCAR)

July 12-14 – MotoAmerica Superbike SpeedFest at Monterey

August 10-11 – Monterey Pre-Reunion & Community Day

August 14-17 – Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion

September 27-29 – GRIDLIFE Laguna

UtahSBA: Norton Wins Four At Snow-Affected Opening Weekend

Riders battle for position during Round 1 of the Utah Motorcycle Law Masters of the Mountains race series. Photo by Drive-By Shootings Photography, courtesy UtahSBA.
Isaac Loynd (609), Landon Mattson (999), and Trever Nosack (303) battle for position during Round 1 of the Utah Motorcycle Law Masters of the Mountains race series. Photo by Drive-By Shootings Photography, courtesy UtahSBA.

Utah Sportbike Association Kicks Off 2024 Season!

The Utah Sport Bike Association (UtahSBA) was pleased to kick off the 2024 season of the Utah Motorcycle Law Masters of the Mountains race series on May 3-4. After abandoning a two-day race schedule during the COVID-19 pandemic, and being unable to race the East track configuration at Utah Motorsports Campus (UMC) due to deteriorating air fence, the UtahSBA not only made a long awaited return to a two-day race schedule, but did so on the East track configuration with updated air fence. Additional changes of note for the 2024 season include purse money for select race classes and a revised class structure that more closely resembles MotoAmerica rules.

With the premier King of the Mountains race canceled due to a snowstorm, the highlight race of the weekend turned out to be the Outlaw Garage Novice GTO race. Points were spread across two days of racing and with Outlaw Garage providing a cash payout for weekend finishing positions one through five, on-track action was intense.

The UtahSBA wants to invite all club racers to join us May 25-26, 2024, for round two at Utah Motorsports Campus, on the West track configuration, where the premier King of the Mountains class will be issuing a double cash payout.

Last but certainly not least, the UtahSBA wishes to thank our generous sponsors, volunteers, racers, and families. Without your support club racing in Utah would be much less gooder.

The Utah Sport Bike Association is a Utah Non-Profit dedicated to promoting education, safe riding, and competition in the Intermountain West. You can find more information about the USBA, upcoming events, and schools at www.utahsba.com or find us on Facebook.

 

USBA Round 1 – UMC East – May 4th-5th, 2024
 
Combined GTU

1. Daniel Christiani (YAM R7)

2. Brandon Morgan (TRI 675)

3. Owen Austad (KAW ZX-6R)

4. Hunter Underhill (YAM R6)

5. Jordan DeJarnett (YAM R6)

6. Trever Nosack (HON CBR600RR)
 

 

The Edge Powersports Deseret Dash – Expert Saturday

1. Anthony Norton (KAW ZX-10R)

2. Michael Bradshaw (KAW ZX-10R)

3. Louis Saccoccio (YAM R1)

4. Christopher Mousley (YAM R1)

5. Steven Marco (YAM R1)

6. John Tran (BMW S 1000 RR)
 

 

The Edge Powersports Deseret Dash – Novice Saturday

1. James Walker (YAM R1)

2. Daniel Christiani (YAM R6)

3. Nathan Richey (DUC 1199)

4. Richard Umpleby (BMW S 1000 RR)

5. Justin Drake (YAM R1)

6. Landon Mattson (SUZ GSX-R600)

 

Trackstar Racing Formula 40 – GTO

1. Christopher Mousley (YAM R1)

2. John Tran (BMW S 1000 RR)

3. Steven Marco (YAM R1)

4. Michael Bradshaw (KAW ZX-10R)

5. Louis Saccoccio (YAM R1)

6. Max Tseng (YAM R1)

 

Eurosports Utah Formula 40 – GTU

1. Jason Johnson (DUC 848)

2. Brian Larrabure (Pierobon X60)

3. Mark Taylor (KAW ZX-6R)

4. John Carver (YAM R7)

5. James Mejias (HON CBR600RR)

6. Hunter Underhill (YAM R6)
 

 

The Weekend Garage Middleweight Superbike GP – Saturday

1. Christopher Mousley (ZX-6R)

2. Nolan Kiiskila (KTM RC 8C)

3. Zach Jenson (YAM R6)

4. Scott Christensen (YAM R6)

5. Jeff Leeman (YAM R6)

6. Josheph Ruck (YAM R6)

 

The Weekend Garage Middleweight Superbike GP – Sunday

1. Josh Dyer (YAM R6)

2. Nolan Kiiskila (KTM RC8C)
 

 

Modern Vintage – GTO

1. Kohl Burmester (BMW S 1000 RR)

2. Michael Arnie (YAM R6)

3. Chris Golmon (SUZ GSX-R600)

 

Modern Vintage – GTU

1. Alban Bonilla (HON CBR600RR)

2. Jason Johnson (DUC 848)

3. Jordan DeJarnett (YAM R6)

4. Brandon Morgan (TRI 675)

5. Trever Nosack (HON CBR600RR)

6. Mikah Fathers (TRI 675)

 

Karl Malone Powersports Moto 2 – Expert

1. Christopher Mousley (KAW ZX-6R)

2. Scott Christensen (YAM R6)

3. Jeff Leeman (YAM R6)

 

Moto 2 – Novice

1. Aubrey Credaroli (YAM R6)

2. Brian Cassel (YAM R6)

3. Daniel Christiani (YAM R6)

 

 

Redline Realty Moto 3 GP – Saturday

1. Mark Taylor (KAW ZX-4R)

2. Raab Gisseman (HON RS125)

3. Ian Nielsen (KTM RC 390)

4. Stetson Dickinson (YAM R3)

5. Kirby Wadle (KAW 400)

6. Kenny Hutton (KTM 390)

 

Redline Realty Moto 3 GP – Sunday

1. Raab Gisseman (HON RS125)

2. Stetson Dickinson (YAM R3)

 

Outlaw Garage Novice GTO GP – Saturday

1. Nathan Richey (DUC 1199)

2. Daniel Christiani (YAM R6)

3. Aubrey Credaroli (YAM R6)

4. Kohl Burmester (BMW S 1000 RR)

5. Richard Umpleby (BMW S 1000 RR)

6. Justin Drake (YAM R1)

 

Outlaw Garage Novice GTO GP – Sunday

1. James Walker (YAM R1)

2. Nathan Richey (DUC 1199)

3. Kohl Burmester (BMW S 1000 RR)

4. Daniel Christiani (YAM R6)

5. Miguel Alamillo (SUZ GSX-R1000)

6. Richard Umpleby (BMW S 1000 RR)

 

GT Title Services Inc Novice GTU GP – Saturday

1. Brian Cassel (YAM R6)

2. Justin McMillan (YAM R6)

3. Michael Arnie (YAM R6)

4. Landon Mattson (SUZ GSX-R600)

5. Owen Ausad (KAW ZX-6R)

6. Zachary Scoggins (TRI 675)

 

GT Title Services Inc Novice GTU GP – Sunday

1. Brian Cassel (YAM R6)

2. Michael Arnie (YAM R6)

3. Brandon Morgan (TRI 675)

4. Cassie Creer (KAW ZX-6R)

5. Owen Ausad (KAW ZX-6R)

6. John Acuma (YAM R6)

 

Vortex Racing Open Superbike GP – Saturday

1. Anthony Norton (ZX-10R)

2. John Tran (BMW S 1000 RR)

3. Louis Saccoccio (YAM R1)

4. Steven Marco (YAM R1)

5. Max Tseng (YAM R1)

 

Vortex Racing Open Superbike GP – Sunday

1. Anthony Norton (ZX-10R)

2. Louis Saccoccio (YAM R1)

3. John Tran (BMW S 1000 RR)

4. Steven Marco (YAM R1)

5. Christopher Mousley (YAM R1)

6. Alban Bonilla (BMW S 1000 RR)

 

Crossbeam Builders Open Twins

1. Jason Johnson (DUC 848)

2. Nolan Kiiskila (KTM RC 8C)

3. Zachary Scoggins (TRI 675)

4. Ian Jenson (DUC V2)

5. Joseph Ruck (KTM SMR450)

6. John Carver (YAM R7)

 

ARJ Investing Sportsman

1. Brandon Morgan (TRI 675)

2. Cassie Creer (KAW ZX-6R)

3. Isaac Loynd (TRI Street Triple)

4. Trever Nosack (HON CBR600RR)

5. Mikah Fathers (TRI 675)

6. Stetson Dickinson (YAM R3)

 

Stock 1000 – Expert

1. Anthony Norton (KAW ZX-10R)

2. Brian Childree (APR RSV4)

3. Jeff Taylor (YAM R1)

4. Louis Saccoccio (YAM R1)

5. Christopher Mousley (YAM R1)

6. Steven Marco (YAM R1)

 

Stock 1000 – Novice

1. James Walker (YAM R1)

2. Kohl Burmester (BMW S 1000 RR)

3. Nathan Richey (DUC 1199)

4. Richard Umpleby (BMW S 1000 RR)

5. Justin Drake (YAM R1)

6. Ian Jenson (DUC V2)

 

Chicane Performance Super Street Bike GP

1. David Meyer (APR Tuono)

2. Alex Zinaich (YAM FZ-10)

3. Alex Campbell (YAM R6)

4. Sean Schmidt (KTM Duke 790)

5. Carlin Merrill (BMW S 1000 RR)

 

BCA Medical Consultants Lightweight GP – Saturday

1. Mark Taylor (KAW ZX-4R)

2. Raab Gisseman (HON RS125)

3. Ian Nielson (KTM RC 390)

4. Kyle Kacprzynski (KAW 400)

5. Kirby Wadle (KAW 400)

 

BCA Medical Consultants Lightweight GP – Sunday

1. Raab Gisseman (HON RS125)

2. Kyle Kacprzynski (KAW 400)

3. Gary Yost (SUZ SV650)

4. Ian Nielson (KTM RC 390)

 

Ultra Lightweight Superbike

1. Raab Gisseman (HON RS125)

2. Kyle Kacprzynski (KAW 400)

3. Kenny Hutton (KTM RC 390)

4. Stetson Dickinson (YAM R3)

5. Kirby Wadle (KAW 400)

6. Zachery Harston (KAW EX500)

 

Trackstart Racing Lightweight Superbike

1. John Carver (YAM R7)

2. Ian Nielson (KTM RC 390)

 

“Rainey’s Ride To The Races” Returning July 12 With New Legends

A scene from the Rainey's Ride To The Races in 2023. Photo courtesy MotoAmerica.
Riders gathered at the Moto Talbott Motorcycle Museum last year ready to start "Rainey's Ride To The Races" on the Monterey Peninsula. The fourth annual ride will take place on Friday, July 12. Photo courtesy MotoAmerica.

Fourth Annual “Rainey’s Ride To The Races” Set For Laguna Seca On July 12

Ride With The Legends On The Monterey Peninsula Before Enjoying A Weekend Full Of MotoAmerica Action

IRVINE, CA (May 8, 2024) – If you want the opportunity to spend a day riding motorcycles and hanging out at the racetrack with racers who have won 32 AMA National Championships and eight World Championships, then you should move “Rainey’s Ride To The Races” to the top of your bucket list.

MotoAmerica, North America’s premier motorcycle road racing series, is excited to announce that the fourth annual “Rainey’s Ride To The Races” will again take place on the Monterey Peninsula on July 12 in conjunction with the sixth round of the MotoAmerica Steel Commander Superbike Championship at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. And this year’s ride boasts even more racing legends than the previous year’s.

This year’s ride includes the following legends:

Four-time World Champion Eddie Lawson

Three-time AMA Grand National Champion and 1988 AMA Superbike Champion Bubba Shobert

Seven-time Supercross and Motocross National Champion Rick Johnson

Nine-time AMA Grand National Champion Scott Parker

Three-time AMA Superbike Champion Doug Chandler

1991 AMA Superbike Champion Thomas Stevens

1996 AMA Superbike Champion Miguel Duhamel

Three-time AMA Superbike and 2009 World Superbike Champion Ben Spies 

Rainey’s Ride To The Races will be held on Friday, July 12, opening day of the sixth round of the MotoAmerica Championship, and will again benefit the Roadracing World Action Fund, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that promotes motorcycle racing safety with the facilitation of soft barrier systems at racing events.

“I’m really proud of what ‘Rainey’s Ride To The Races’ has become,” said MotoAmerica President and three-time World Champion Wayne Rainey. “We’ve raised nearly $325,000 since we started the ride three years ago, and that money has gone to a worthy cause – acquiring soft barrier systems we use at our races for improved rider safety. We’ve always had good support from legends in the sport and this year’s event will showcase even more motorcycle racing heroes – Eddie Lawson, Bubba Shobert, Rick Johnson, Scott Parker, Doug Chandler, Thomas Stevens, Miguel Duhamel, and Ben Spies. I think it’s great the legends are giving back to the sport that gave them so much, and they all understand the importance of rider safety. I really appreciate these guys coming to Laguna Seca to join the ride.”

The 100-mile ride will begin at the Moto Talbott Motorcycle Museum in Carmel Valley, California, and will tour the best parts of the Monterey Peninsula, including in and around the Santa Lucia Mountain ranges, the Salinas Valley foothills, local wineries, and the stunning Steinbeck country. The ride will conclude at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca with two laps around the racetrack, lunch, and a Q&A session at the Turn 3 Paddock Suite with legends Rainey, Lawson, Shobert, Johnson, Parker, Chandler, Stevens, Duhamel, and Spies.

The ride will be limited to 50 riders who purchase the special $700 Premium “Rainey’s Ride To The Races” Ticket, which includes the Q&A session and lunch with the legends in the climate-controlled Turn 3 Paddock Suite on Friday. While a three-day general admission ticket is included in the donation, for an additional $700, “Rainey’s Ride To The Races” ticket purchasers can upgrade to the MotoAmerica Superfan VIP Experience in the Turn 3 Paddock Suite for the entire weekend.

To purchase tickets for Rainey’s Ride To The Races, click HERE

For more information on the Roadracing World Action Fund, click HERE

About MotoAmerica

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

Moto Guzzi USA Announces Northeast Demo Tour

A Moto Guzzi V100 Mandello. Photo courtesy Moto Guzzi USA.
A Moto Guzzi V100 Mandello. Photo courtesy Moto Guzzi USA.

MOTO GUZZI USA INVITES NORTHEAST RIDERS TO EXPERIENCE THE LATEST MACHINERY FROM THE HISTORIC ITALIAN MARQUE 2024 DEMO TOUR 

NEW YORK, NY — MAY 8, 2024 — Moto Guzzi USA is thrilled to announce its Northeast Demo Tour, giving passionate motorcyclists across the region the chance to experience the thrill of riding one of the 2024 Moto Guzzi range firsthand.

 

Experience New Roads with Moto Guzzi

The tour will visit dealerships throughout the Northeastern region, with event dates scheduled below, and more to be added. 

 

May 18

Wide World Motoplex West Chester

315 Westtown Rd, West Chester, PA 19382

 

May 29 – June 2

Americade

48 Canada St, Lake George, NY 12845

 

June 14

Blackmans 

4911 Buckeye RD, Emmaus, PA 18049

 

June 15

Flemington Powersports

300 US-202, Flemington, NJ 08822

 

June 21

North American Warhorse

1000 Dunham Dr, Dunmore, PA 18512

 

June 22

BMG Powersports 

2677 NY-17M, Goshen, NY 10924

 

July 13

Peake Offroad

6551 Pratt Rd, Williamson, NY 14589

 

July 19

Xtreme Power Sports

418 S. Main St., Accident, MD 21520

 

July 20

Moto Richmond 

6000 Midlothian Tpke, Richmond, VA 23225

 

July 27

Hamlin Cycles

44 Grassy Plain St, Bethel, CT 06801

 

August 10

Seacoast Powersports

19 Lafayette Rd, Hampton Falls, NH 03844

 

August 17

Razee Cycles

730 Tower Hill Rd, North Kingstown, RI 02852

 

September 14 

Kissel Motorsports 

*In Conjunction with 2024 PA Moto Guzzi Rally*

5165 E Pleasant Valley Blvd, Tyrone, PA 16686

 

The Complete Moto Guzzi Experience

Attendees will have the opportunity to get behind bars of the newest Moto Guzzi models, including the new Moto Guzzi Stelvio which has returns for 2024 and is ready for your next adventure, the iconic V7 range, with a namesake that extends more then 50 years offering a character-rich, classic style, and with the technologically advanced arrival of the Moto Guzzi V100 Mandello, there’s a Moto Guzzi for every riding style.

 

Expert Staff on Hand

Knowledgeable Moto Guzzi staff will be on hand at every location to answer questions, provide expert advice, and lead guided rides. This is the perfect opportunity to learn more about the Moto Guzzi brand and discover the perfect Italian machine for your next adventure.

 

For More Information on the Tour and Locations, Please Visit: 

https://www.motoguzzi.com/us_EN/moto-guzzi-world/news-moto-guzzi/northeast-demo-tour/

North West 200: Irwin Breaks Lap Record In Superbike Q1

Glenn Irwin (1) broke the lap record during Superbike qualifying Wednesday at the North West 200. Photo by Pacemaker Press International, courtesy NW200 Press Office.
Glenn Irwin (1) broke the lap record during Superbike qualifying Wednesday at the North West 200. Photo by Pacemaker Press International, courtesy NW200 Press Office.

GLENN IRWIN LAPS FASTER THAN THE EXISTING OUTRIGHT LAP RECORD TO CLAIM PROVISIONAL SUPERBIKE POLE ON FIRST DAY OF QUALIFYING AT THE 2024 BRIGGS EQUIPMENT NORTH WEST 200.

 

Glenn Irwin dipped under the official lap record on a day of glorious sunshine on the north coast to claim [provisional] pole position in the Superbike class after the opening qualifying session of the Briggs Equipment North West 200. The Carrickfergus rider, who is bidding to become the most successful Superbike rider at the north coast event, posted a speed of 124.895mph on the Hager PBM Ducati, 0.2 seconds quicker than Peter Hickman’s official lap record speed of 124.799mph.

“Track conditions were so good out there and the grip levels were surprisingly good too,” said Irwin, who arrived on the north coast fresh from completing a BSB Superbike hat-trick at Oulton Park on Monday.

“We made a change during the session and went the wrong way, but it is still nice to do an unofficial lap record for the fans. This is the best first day I’ve had at the North West and the Ducati is going in a straight line which is great, but I still think the Superbike races will be real dogfights.”

The Superbike session followed the Newcomer’s opening practice as 27 riders took to the 8.9-mile Triangle Course for the first time. The big names were immediately on the pace and made their presence felt during the hour-long qualifying with Davey Todd posting the second-quickest time on his Milwaukee BMW, 1.357 seconds slower than Irwin. Michael Dunlop was third-fastest, 4.261 seconds further back on his new Honda superbike. Peter Hickman (PHR Performance BMW) and Dean Harrison (Honda Racing) set the fourth- and fifth-best marks on their Superstock-spec machines with Ian Hutchinson completing the top six on the Milenco Padgett’s Honda during his comeback ride following illness.

John McGuinness (Honda Racing), who was sporting a special helmet celebrating his 30 years of racing at the North West, James Hillier (WTF Honda), Finland Erno Kostamo (Penz13.com BMW) and Conor Cummins (Milenco Padgetts Honda) completed the top ten quickest times.

Next up were the Supersport machines and Richard Cooper indicated his hopes of winning both Supersport races at this year’s NW200 are well founded as he claimed provisional pole on the Russell Racing/BPE Yamaha. The 41-year-old was 0.815 seconds faster than Davey Todd on the Powermate Tools Ducati with Michael Dunlop 4.6 seconds slower than Todd on his MD Racing Triumph.

“There were no issues and things went exactly the way I hoped they would during that session,” Cooper said, before indicating he felt he would be up against it in trying to beat Todd’s Ducati.

“I reeled off nearly race distance and used the same tyres through the whole session. But I also had a very good look at the opposition and although I am mentioning no names, I know it is going to be difficult to win when there is a clear difference in cc’s and that difference is not to my advantage.”

Cooper’s Russell Racing/BPE Yamaha teammate, Mike Browne, was fourth-fastest in the class with Peter Hickman (Trooper Beer Triumph) and Paul Jordan (Jackson Racing Honda) completing the leaderboard. 

The winner of Monday’s British championship Superstock race at Oulton, Davey Todd produced another strong performance during the Stocker qualifying session to top the timesheets on the Milwaukee Tools BMW.

“I just wanted to be comfortable out there today and to make sure the bikes were running alright,” the Saltburn by the Sea rider said, smiling after lapping just 1.5 seconds slower than Alastair Seeley’s lap record in the class. “The weather has been great, but I can’t believe the lap times. It is really exciting that we are running near lap record pace on day one. We couldn’t wish for anything better. But we had done the work before we came here. The bikes are awesome because the guys in the team have done a fantastic job. They know this place inside out having won here so many times and I hope I can add some more to that tally. We had a few little problems with the superbike but we have those ironed out and hopefully we can challenge Glenn at the front on the big bike now.”

Dean Harrison was just half a second slower than Todd on the Honda Racing Fireblade as a chronic lack of parts has forced the team to park their Superbike and Supersport-spec machines and confine their racing at Portrush to the Stocker class.

Michael Dunlop was third fastest on his MD Racing Fireblade with Peter Hickman, who also isn’t riding a Superbike-spec machine at this year’s North West, over a second slower than the Ballymoney rider.

Jeremy McWilliams posted the quickest time during the first laps of the Supertwins session on the IFS Bayview Paton before the opening day of action at this year’s NW200 came to a premature end when a crash at Mill road roundabout brought out the red flags. With the roads due to re-open at 3pm the session was brought to a close leaving McWilliams frustrated.

“We aren’t even in the ball park yet with set-up.” the 60-year-old said. “The bike does feel strong but the chassis doesn’t feel like the bike I rode here last year and we need more time.”

Qualifying resumes on Thursday morning with roads closing at 9am.  They will re-open at 3pm before closing again at 4.45pm as three races are set to run during the evening.

The opening event, the Briggs Equipment Superbike race will be the first superbike race to run at the north coast meeting during the Thursday evening programme. It is scheduled to begin at 5.30pm followed by the Fraser Homes Supersport and the Amici Restaurant Superstock races. All three races will be run over four laps.  

2024 Yamaha MT-09: A Decade On, Better Than Ever

The 2024 Yamaha MT-09 features a revised chassis and suspension, better quickshifting, and a new riding position, all designed to make the bike better in a sport riding environment. Photo by Joseph Agustin.

Yamaha will tell you that the MT-09 is a hyper naked machine. The lack of fairing screams standard. The messaging surrounding tubular handlebars is all about comfort.

But a day of ripping around on the 2024 version of the bike that started Yamaha’s current performance-oriented Master of Torque (MT) lineup demonstrated that it’s just a ruse.

It’s a sportbike, pure and simple.

It may lack wind protection and clip-on bars, but the thing hauls, handles, and brakes. It flicks hard into corners, holds its composure mid-corner, and barrels out with the front wheel threatening to come off the ground. After about 120 miles of twisty roads in and around San Jose and Santa Cruz in Northern California, I came to the following conclusion. It goes fast, it handles, it makes you feel fast, and if that doesn’t meet the definition of sportbike, nothing does.

Tech Briefing

Yamaha established its three-cylinder hyper naked formula with the 2014 model (known then as the FZ-09) and has stuck with it. The engine has grown from the original 847cc to the 890cc of the current CP3 engine, also found in several other models in Yamaha’s lineup. Horsepower is now a claimed 117.3 bhp at 10,000 rpm, with claimed torque peaking at 68.6 lbs.-ft. at 7,000 rpm.

Changes for 2024 include a new up-and-down quickshifter system that now allows downshifts under acceleration and upshifts while decelerating. A new transmission incorporates different internal gears and six drive dogs instead of the previous five. The idea is to reduce shift lash and smooth out the gear engagement. The new gas tank cover incorporates a pair of screens that enhance the intake sound.

The riding position come from handlebars that are more than an inch and a quarter lower and pegs that are more than an inch further back and slightly higher. The tank cover is about an inch lower and more than two inches wider and is redesigned to better hold the rider’s knees in place during enthusiastic cornering. The seat is now a split design, with rider and passenger having separate seats.

The twin-spar aluminum frame gets minor adjustments to help improve handling and feel. New engine mount brackets are slightly thicker–from 3.2mm to 4.0mm on the left and from 3.2mm to 6.0mm on the right–to increase rigidity in that part of the chassis. A new headstock bracket is thinner to reduce rigidity there. The 41mm KYB forks get stiffer springs, 15N/mm from 14N/mm, and revised damping, and the single KYB shock gets revised damping and a new linkage with a flatter curve. The idea is to generate more stability and less pitch during braking and acceleration, as well as better front-end feel and more consistent feel over a wider range of riding conditions. Proprietary Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S23 tires are mounted over lightweight 10-spoke aluminum-alloy rims.

Ride modes include Rain, Street and Sport, with two custom mode slots available for the rider who wants to fine-tune their personal selection of throttle sensitivity, traction control, slide control, wheelie control, back slip regulation and quickshifter sensitivity. The BSR (Back Slip Regulator) modulates engine brake torque in traction conditions where the slipper clutch is overwhelmed.

The styling is cleaner, the mirrors are new, and the passenger peg mounts are hidden. The new seat is narrower at the front. New switches operate turn signals that now are self-canceling and have a lane-change function–tap the switch and the signal flashes briefly, then turns itself off. The cruise control couldn’t be easier to operate. And there are four different dash display modes, including one that is inspired by a piano–lest we forget, Yamaha makes exquisite pianos.

Riding It

Yamaha’s plan for the machines powered by the CP3 engine includes softer power at the bottom end of the rpm range, with a smooth transition to a punchy mid-range and legit power at the top end. The 2024 MT-09’s throttle response is smooth and direct, even in Sport mode. I switched to Rain mode when riding down a single-lane road where the shadows from massive redwood trees hid the wet patches, and I liked the muted throttle response. Back in Sport mode, wheelies were the norm, and on a section of Pacific Coast Highway shut down for the test ride by the California Highway Patrol, we got to exceed the posted speed limit. Even at speed, the bike felt smooth, calm, and settled. At normal highway speeds, the bike was just loafing, waiting to jump when called.

The bars felt slightly wider than clip-ons, but the lower position did not result in any greater pressure on my wrists. Same with the more rearset pegs – the more aggressive riding position was no less comfortable. The engine didn’t vibrate much, the new mirrors worked, and the cruise control was responsive and sophisticated. I’ve quit apologizing for loving cruise control. I think it makes a long ride so much less taxing.

 

The 2024 Yamaha MT-09 has a revised riding position, with lower handlebars and footpegs moved rearward. Photo by Joseph Agustin.

 

The new riding position was designed to put the rider in a more forward stance, and it felt like it gave me a more direct connection to the front wheel. The chassis changes didn’t hurt, and while the suspension components are not the most sophisticated, the bike was stable going into corners over roads bumpy enough to get the rear wheel airborne, and the machine was planted mid-corner. Yamaha got the suspension pretty close.

The Brembo radial front master cylinder felt solid and works with a pair of Advics calipers and 298mm twin discs up front. And, as I have noted in several of my past MT-09 reviews, there was definitely a rear brake attached to the machine. What it does, I have no idea.

The new quickshfter system is one of the best I’ve used. The seat is plenty comfortable. I wish there was a way to bypass the two Custom ride modes and just use the Mode button to toggle through Rain, Street and Sport, but isn’t that a first-world problem?

Yamaha got the original FZ-09 right and has spent a decade honing the bike. This version is the best one yet. Yeah, it’s fairing-free, clip on-free, etc., but the MT-09 is a sportbike just the same.

 

 

 

 

Yamaha Champions Riding School Holding Three Events At Repaved NJMP

Yamaha Champions Riding School (YCRS) is holding three events at the repaved New Jersey Motorsports Park (NJMP) in 2024. Photo by Apex Pro Photo, courtesy YCRS.
Yamaha Champions Riding School (YCRS) is holding three events at the repaved New Jersey Motorsports Park (NJMP) in 2024. Photo by Apex Pro Photo, courtesy YCRS.

Three Events at New Jersey Motorsports Park!

New Jersey Motorsport Park is a fantastic facility for ChampSchool. Great classroom, a great restaurant, hotel rooms above the garages, and a huge paddock for ChampStreet…but the surface of the race track has seen better days. Guess what? NJMP is getting repaved and the May ChampSchool is your first opportunity to ride the new surface. We are ecstatic!

We will hold three events at NJMP this year. May 14 – 15, June 18 – 19, and September 10 -11 with our game-changing 2-ChampSchool.  

We will have a complete selection of Yamaha MT-07’s, MT-03’s, MT-09’s, YZF-R6’s, YZF-R3’s and YZF-R7’s available for a true “arrive and ride” experience for our 2-Day ChampSchool program. These rental options are not available for ChampStreet. You can sign up for a ChampSchool rental at registration. Don’t have leathers? Traveling light? We world’s best safety gear from Dainese and Arai. We will have a huge inventory of Dainese leathers, boots, gloves, back protectors and helmets available. Make sure you sign up early with your sizing.

Each Day at each of our three events, will feature our 1-Day ChampStreet experience. ChampStreet will be an 8-hour class held in the huge NJMP paddock area, and speed-controlled laps on the track. Derived from our 2-Day ChampSchool program, ChampStreet is like “ChampSchool Lite” and is designed for street riders of all levels. The course is taught at highway speeds on your street motorcycle with your street gear, no leathers required.

All of our in-person schools come with complimentary access to our Online Champ U: Core Curriculum. This gives every student the opportunity to study the curriculum before you get to the event. This base layer of information greatly improves the experience and internalization of information.  Email [email protected] with any questions.

Exclusive Aprilia Pro Experience Coming To Misano On June 9

Six-time World Champion Max Biaggi (1) leading students at a previous Aprilia Pro Experience event. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Six-time World Champion Max Biaggi (1) leading students at a previous Aprilia Pro Experience event. Photo courtesy Dorna.

The exclusive Aprilia Pro Experience is back in Misano on 9 June

A UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY, A DREAM DAY FOR ANY ENTHUSIAST

ON THE TRACK WITH THE APRILIA SUPERSPORT BIKES, RIDDEN BY GREAT CHAMPIONS, EXTRAORDINARY TALENT, ACTING AS COACHES:

SIX-TIME WORLD CHAMPION AND MOTOGP LEGEND MAX BIAGGI AND APRILIA MOTOGP RIDERS MIGUEL OLIVEIRA AND LORENZO SAVADORI

SPECIAL GUESTS APRILIA RACING MOTOGP RIDERS ALEIX ESPARGARÓ AND MAVERICK VIÑALES

INFO AND BOOKING ON APRILIA.COM

The Aprilia Pro Experience is back, a dream day that allows an extremely limited number of enthusiasts to get out on the track along with some of the best riders in the world, on hand exceptionally as coaches.

The event will take place at Misano World Circuit on Sunday, 9 June in the wake of the 2024 edition of Aprilia All Stars, the huge festival starring the riders and bikes which have made Aprilia the European brand with the most victories in World Championship GP Motorcycle Racing, which will liven up the Romagna track on Saturday, 8 June.

Aprilia Pro Experience is not “just” a super exclusive track riding course. It is an extremely high level racing experience – a dream come true for any motorcyclist – on one of the few tracks in the world that is a venue for both MotoGP and WSBK rounds. The lucky participants will climb into the saddle of the extraordinary Aprilia RSV4 Factory ridden by three exceptional “super coaches”: MotoGP legend Max Biaggi, four-time 250 class World Champion and two-time World Superbike Champion, 5-time MotoGP Grand Prix race winner Miguel Oliveira, current Aprilia rider on team Trackhouse, and Lorenzo Savadori, Aprilia Racing MotoGP rider and tester.

During the day, the other Aprilia Racing MotoGP riders will also be present: the two factory riders, Aleix Espargaró and Maverick Viñales, as well as Raúl Fernández, Oliveira’s teammate on team Trackhouse, for yet another unique opportunity to create unforgettable moments.

The Experience event, open to just 20 participants, will take up the entire day. The key moments will obviously be the track sessions, for a total of six, twenty-minute turns. Each of the three coaches will follow a small number of riders in turn, in order to be certain that they’ll be able to dedicate full attention to each rider and to ensure each participant at least one turn with each of the super coaches, even during the garage training activities.

The Aprilia RSV4 Factory bikes available to the participants will be the most technologically advanced version of the bike which has won seven WSBK titles, and they will be shod with high-performance Pirelli Diablo Superbike compound tyres – the ideal choice for track days.
There will be a briefing and debriefing ahead of an following each session with analysis of the onboard videos obtained thanks to cameras installed on each bike. This exclusive event will also include lunch in the Aprilia hospitality area and a dedicated photo shoot.

But that’s not all. The exclusive package also includes a lap around the track as passenger to one of the Aprilia Racing riders on the Aprilia RSV4 two-seater, and one of the sessions entering the track directly from the Aprilia Racing MotoGP garage. During the day, the participants will also be able to see the Aprilia RS-GP prototype start up, protagonist in the 2024 MotoGP World Championship.

The Aprilia Pro Experience in Misano is available at a price of €2,950 ($3,173 USD). All information and how to book and participate are available at this link:
www.aprilia.com/it_IT/aprilia-pro-experience/

WorldSBK: Magny-Cours Hosting World Championship Through 2027

Circuit de Nevers Magny-Cours, in France, will continue hosting the FIM Superbike World Championship through at least 2027. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Circuit de Nevers Magny-Cours, in France, will continue hosting the FIM Superbike World Championship through at least 2027. Photo courtesy Dorna.

WorldSBK and Circuit de Nevers Magny-Cours extend partnership until 2027

WorldSBK and Circuit de Nevers Magny-Cours, one of France’s premier racing venues, are thrilled to announce the extension of their partnership, securing Circuit de Nevers Magny-Cours’ presence on the calendar until 2027.

The renewed agreement solidifies a new three-year contract, spanning the 2025, 2026, and 2027 seasons, emphasizing the mutual commitment to the continued growth and success of the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship. The announcement follows the success of the 2023 edition of the event, where attendance figures soared, exceeding pre-pandemic levels and establishing a robust foundation for the event’s future growth.

“We are pleased to continue our collaboration with the Circuit de Nevers Magny-Cours,” said Gregorio Lavilla, WorldSBK Executive Director. “The circuit has consistently delivered great racing moments and showcased the passion and dedication of the French fans. This extension reflects our shared commitment to providing the best possible experience for both riders and spectators. We look forward to the next years of competition at this world-class facility.”

Nestled in the picturesque Nievre department, Circuit de Nevers Magny-Cours has been a favourite among riders and fans for its challenging layout, technical sections, and enthusiastic spectator base. The commitment of the Nievre local government to the support of WorldSBK events at the circuit is unwavering, with an ongoing partnership that ensures the circuit is devoted to promoting and fostering the socio-economic development of the Nievre region.

As part of this commitment, a state-of-the-art race control room made its WorldSBK debut during the 2023 event. The infrastructure upgrade, featuring new monitoring facilities, was made possible through a joint effort between Circuit de Nevers Magny-Cours and the Departmental Council of Nievre, an investment integral to maintaining the circuit’s Grade B homologation.

Serge Saulnier, Chairman of the Board, Circuit de Nevers Magny-Cours, expressed satisfaction about the extended partnership, stating, “Extending our agreement is the result of close collaboration between Dorna teams and Magny-Cours Circuit. 2024 will mark the 22nd year of hosting the French WorldSBK round, a testament to the enduring loyalty between this championship and Magny-Cours. Our teams, supported by La Nievre department, consistently strive to enhance our infrastructure and ensure the safety of competitors. We eagerly anticipate welcoming WorldSBK fans to Magny-Cours on September 6th, 7th, and 8th.”

The extended partnership marks a new milestone for both WorldSBK and Circuit de Nevers Magny-Cours, reinforcing their dedication to delivering world-class racing experiences. As the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship continues to captivate audiences around the globe, the collaboration between these two entities ensures that the French Round remains a highlight on the racing calendar for years to come.

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