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World Superbike: Preview Of The Hungarian Round

Mathilde Gasnier
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World Superbike: Preview Of The Hungarian Round

Balaton Park hosts Round 8 of the 2025 season as the title fight has ignited in recent rounds, while the Superpole Race is set to be a milestone race for the Championship.

The MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship heads to Hungary for the first time since 1990 as Balaton Park hosts its first round. While it will be the circuit’s first WorldSBK event, the Championship will celebrate its 1000th race, scheduled to be the Tissot Superpole Race. It comes as the lead in the title fight changed hands last time out at Donington, with four points separating new leader Toprak Razgatlioglu (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) and Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) heading into the Hungarian Round.

Little To Separate The Top Two: just four points in it…

Razgatlioglu’s on a run of eight wins in nine races, and six on the bounce, following his Donington hat-trick and that has helped him turn a 42-point deficit leaving Australia into a four-point advantage ahead of Round 8. Bulega has been able to closely match his rival at Most, Misano and Donington – circuits ‘El Turco’ dominated at last year – but Balaton Park is a new challenge for all, with only some stock bike testing taking place there and not the entire WorldSBK field. Both Razgatlioglu and Bulega did get some laps in at the Hungarian venue.

The Fight For Third: Petrucci vs Bautista vs Locatelli

The momentum is ebbing and flowing as three riders scrap it out for third in the world. P3 is currently held by Danilo Petrucci (Barni Spark Racing Team) but he’s just 15 points clear of Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) in fourth and the #19 will have a spring in his step following his Race 2 rostrum at Donington. Then there’s Andrea Locatelli (Pata Maxus Yamaha), who’s been aiming to maximise his Yamaha R1 package every weekend to stay in the fight, with three top-five finishes at Donington comfortably his best at the British circuit. Out of this group, only Bautista ventured to Balaton for time on the street bike.

Positives To Take From Donington: Rea takes step forward, Alex Lowes fighting for podiums?

Jonathan Rea (Pata Maxus Yamaha) had a strong weekend at Donington. Despite a tech issue in Race 2, it was his best weekend of 2025 as he fought for the top five positions. He’ll hope to take that momentum forward into Hungary where there has been limited running and no races, with everyone on a level playing field. It’s similar for Ryan Vickers (Motocorsa Racing) who didn’t have to learn Donington and showed his true pace by fighting inside the top ten. Balaton is similar but different – while he will have to learn the track, so will everyone else. Garrett Gerloff (Kawasaki WorldSBK Team) has been making gains on the ZX-10RR machine and the Texan will hope that continues in Hungary as he hopes to keep his position in the top ten. Alex Lowes (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team) put Bimota on the front row at Donington and, if he’s declared fit following an ankle sprain suffered in a crash in Race 1 at Donington, will be hoping to repeat that speed – of course, there could be some symmetry too if either he or teammate Axel Bassani is able to win the Superpole Race, after Bimota won the first ever WorldSBK race with Davide Tardozzi. Sam Lowes (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team) will hope to keep his form going after taking a podium last time out at Donington.

Aiming For The Top Ten: can Aegerter keep his form going, will Honda bounce back?

Dominique Aegerter (GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) has often struggled throughout 2025 but appeared to make a breakthrough in the UK with three top ten finishes, including a season’s best P7 in Race 1. Teammate Remy Gardner was also in the top ten fight, finishing P12 twice and P9 in the Superpole Race. As for the Honda HRC duo of Iker Lecuona and Xavi Vierge, they struggled at Donington but will aim to bounce back at Balaton to continue a season where they have largely been on a positive trend. Yari Montella (Barni Spark Racing Team) will hope to continue his strong rookie campaign going, and Andrea Iannone (Team Pata GoEleven) will be looking for a return to the podium fight for a season of struggle so far. Michael van der Mark (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) has also had a tricky year and will hope for better fortunes at a new venue. Michael Rinaldi (Yamaha Motoxracing WorldSBK Team) and teammate Bahattin Sofuoglu will again be aiming for points. Tito Rabat (PETRONAS MIE Honda Racing Team) has his second weekend at the Independent MIE Honda squad, joined by the returning Zaqhwan Zaidi. Tarran Mackenzie finds himself back among the WorldSBK paddock, as he and MGM BONOVO have reached a deal to replace Scott Redding atop their Ducati V4 R. Redding for his part will be competing in British Superbikes until further notice, yet the nature of Mackenzie’s contract has not yet been confirmed.

Watch the Donington highlights show HERE, read the Official Programme for Hungary HERE and watch every moment from the UK using the WorldSBK VideoPass – now 65% off!

Yamaha Honors Champions of SkillsUSA® and U.S. Technician Grand Prix

Mathilde Gasnier
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Yamaha Honors Champions of SkillsUSA® and U.S. Technician Grand Prix

Yamaha Continues to Support and Grow the Next Generation of Powersports Technicians

 

Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA and Yamaha Motor University (YMU) are proud to recognize the winners of the United States Technician Grand Prix (USTGP) and SkillsUSA® National Championships held at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, from June 23-27, 2025. This marks the fourth consecutive year that Yamaha and SkillsUSA® have partnered in developing the next generation of powersports technicians, as well as providing students the opportunity to work directly alongside top-performing Yamaha dealership professionals.

“Yamaha strongly believes in training, and supporting SkillsUSA is one of the big ways we are able to show it,” said John Grubb, YMU Training Manager. “I am proud of the discussion we host between SkillsUSA contestants and U.S. Tech Grand Prix finalists from our Yamaha dealers. The up-and-coming techs truly appreciate being able to get honest answers about the industry from seasoned Yamaha professionals, and it’s been a big hit on both sides.”

 

2025 SkillsUSA®: Motorcycle Service Technology Champions

For the fourth consecutive year, Yamaha sponsored the Motorcycle Service Technology contest inside SkillsUSA®. With labs covering a range of real-world service tasks and customer service needs, contestants had to rotate through eight timed and proctored stations on their path to earning top honors. Yamaha and YMU recognize the following students:

  • High School Gold: Mason McConnell – Excelsior Springs Area Career Center, Excelsior Springs, Mo.
  • High School Silver: Jeremy Lanza – Medina County Career Center, Medina, Ohio
  • High School Bronze: Sam H Rowe – Heritage Hills High School, Lincoln City, Ind.

 

  • College Gold: Ayden Stratz – Uintah Basin Technical College-Vernal, Vernal, Utah
  • College Silver: Jacob I Taylor – Alexandria Technical & Community College, Alexandria, Minn.
  • College Bronze: Peter Barrett – Tennessee College of Applied Tech-Chattanooga, Chattanooga, Tenn.

 

2025 Yamaha United States Technician Grand Prix (USTGP) Champions

The Yamaha USTGP is a challenging, hands-on technical skills competition where Yamaha dealership technicians must accurately diagnose vehicle problems and professionally resolve customer service issues. Contestants work through each lab under close supervision from Yamaha staff, and the winning technician qualifies for the international championship round held at Yamaha’s headquarters in Iwata, Japan. This year, Aaron Lawson of MOMS Foxboro earned the right to represent the United States at the world level. Mr. Lawson will join last year’s U.S. Technician Grand Prix winner, Brian Ladner, as they compete in Japan from Nov. 18-21. YMU recognizes Mr. Lawson and all the skilled finalists:

 

  • Gold: Aaron Lawson – MOMS Foxboro, Foxborough, Mass.
  • Silver: Aaron Schultz – Fondy Powersports, Fond du Lac, Wis.
  • Bronze: William Anderson – Orlando Yamaha Kawasaki, Orlando, Fla.

 

Finalists:

  • Jeffery Gibson – Northern Idaho Powersports, Sandpoint, Idaho
  • Jeff Policky – RideNow Powersports Tucson, Tucson, Ariz.
  • Marshall Lobo – Temecula Motorsports, Murrieta, Calif.

 

For more information about SkillsUSA®, visit https://www.skillsusa.org/

For more information about the World Technician Grand Prix, visit https://global.yamaha-motor.com/business/mc/customer-support/wtgp/

For more information related to all Yamaha products, visit https://www.yamahamotorsports.com.

 

About SkillsUSA®

Representing nearly 400,000 career and technical education students and teachers, SkillsUSA® chapters thrive in middle schools, high schools, and college/postsecondary institutions nationwide. Their mission is accomplished through the SkillsUSA® Framework of Personal Skills, Workplace Skills, and Technical Skills Grounded in Academics, which is integrated into classroom curriculum.

Through the Framework, SkillsUSA® students hone their hands-on skills against current industry standards in more than 130 occupational areas, from 3-D Animation to Welding and nearly everything in between. At the same time, they develop the transformative career-readiness skills — teamwork, communication, professionalism, leadership and more — that fuel career and life success.

A vital solution to the ongoing skills gap, where more highly skilled jobs are available than skilled professionals ready to fill them, SkillsUSA® has served more than 14.6 million diverse, difference-making members since 1965.

 

About Yamaha World Technician Grand Prix (WTGP)

The Yamaha World Technician Grand Prix is an international, skill-based contest where Yamaha technicians put their troubleshooting and diagnosis skills to the test against other technicians from around the globe. Each participating country holds a national Technician GP competition to determine a winner, and the champion is sent to the WTGP finals to represent the United States. 

The intention of Yamaha is not only to use WTGP to promote high levels of motivation and improve skills in motorcycle technicians, but also to improve customer satisfaction by continuing to train proficient technicians capable of maintaining Yamaha motorcycles, and to ensure that as many people as possible understand the importance of aftercare services in order to contribute to the revitalization of the entire motorcycle industry and to raise the status of motorcycle technicians.

 

 

About Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA

Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA (YMUS), is a recognized leader in the outdoor recreation industry. The company’s ever-expanding product offerings include Motorcycles and Scooters, ATV and Side-by-Side vehicles, Snowmobiles, Personal Watercraft, Boats, Outboard Motors, Outdoor Power Equipment, Power Assist Bicycles, Golf Cars [sold, serviced, and distributed by Yamaha Golf-Car Company], Power Assist Wheelchair Systems, Surface Mount Technology and Robotic Machines, Unmanned Helicopters, Accessories, Apparel, Yamalube products, and much more. YMUS products are sold through a nationwide network of distributors and dealers in the United States.

YMUS has a corporate office in California, three corporate offices in Georgia, as well as facilities in Wisconsin, Alabama, and Florida. YMUS subsidiaries Yamaha Motor Manufacturing Corporation of America (YMMC), based in Georgia, and Yamaha Jet Boat Manufacturing USA (YJBM) based in Tennessee, each assemble and manufacture selected Yamaha brand products. YMUS owns Skeeter Boats [Texas] with its division G3 Boats [Missouri]. Additional U.S.-based subsidiaries include Yamaha Marine Systems Company, Inc. (YMSC) with subsidiary Siren Marine [Rhode Island] and divisions Bennett Marine [Florida], Yamaha Marine Rotational Molders [Wisconsin] and Yamaha Precision Propeller Inc. [Indiana].

Yamaha Motor Finance Corporation, USA (Yamaha Financial Services), an affiliate of YMUS, offers financing solutions to support Yamaha Dealers and loyal Yamaha Customers nationwide. Yamaha Financial Services provides retail and commercial financing for the diverse line of Yamaha brand motor products based out of Cypress, CA and Marietta, GA.

 

About Yamaha Motor University

Established in 2003 as the Motorsports training division for YMUS, Yamaha Motor University (YMU) provides Parts, Sales, and Technical Service training for Yamaha dealership personnel. Since its founding, YMU has trained and certified thousands of dealership staff with real-world training and education to ensure Yamaha customers receive industry-leading service and support.

Gendron-Belen Joining Dobbs & Lloyd At WorldWCR Round

Mathilde Gasnier
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Gendron-Belen Joining Dobbs & Lloyd At WorldWCR Round

The FIM Women’s Circuit Racing World Championship (WorldWCR) has added a third American rider to its entry list for this weekend’s event at Balaton Park Circuit located in Balatonfőkajár, Hungary, which is a little over 50 miles from Budapest.

Former Junior Cup rider and current SC-Project Twins Cup competitor Elisa Gendron Belen, who races in MotoAmerica for Karns/TST Industries, has been selected as a wild-card entry by the Pons Motorsport Italika Racing Team. Gendron Belen will join Mallory Dobbs and Sonya Lloyd as the third American competing in WorldWCR.

Elisa Gendron Belen will compete as a wild card at this weekend’s WorldWCR round in Hungary. Image courtesy of Elisa Gendron Belen.
Elisa Gendron Belen will compete as a wild card at this weekend’s WorldWCR round in Hungary. Image courtesy of Elisa Gendron Belen.

According to a Pons Motorsport Italika Racing Team social media post, Gendron Belen will replace Chilean rider Isis Carreño, who is currently recovering from an injury. Gendron Belen has previously raced for the Italika Racing program in Mexico where she competed in the Italika Women’s International Cup, considered to be the most important women’s racing championship in Latin America.

Good luck, Elisa!

China Motorcycle Exports Jump 41% to 5.6M Units in Early 2025

Mathilde Gasnier
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China Motorcycle Exports Jump 41% to 5.6M Units in Early 2025

From Jan–Apr 2025, China exported 5.59M motorcycles (+41.14% YoY), worth $3.52B (+44.35%), according to the China Chamber of Commerce for Motorcycle (CCCM).

Top markets:
Latin America: 2.21M units (+55.31%), $1.32B (+64.27%)

Africa: Fastest growth! 1.67M units (+72.58%), $882M (+75.85%)
Imports down: 15.8K units (-7.07%), $90.4M (-29.12%)

 

 

Key Insights:

  • Strong growth in Latin America and Africa: Export value increased by 64.27% and 75.85% respectively, with volume growth of 55.31% and 72.58%.
  •  
  • Asia market underperformed: The only region with negative growth, showing a 6.55% decline in value and 3.83% decline in volume.
  •  
  • Significant overall growth: Total export value grew by 44.35% with volume increasing by 41.14% year-over-year.
  •  
  • Steady growth in Europe: 51.47% increase in export value and 45.87% increase in volume.
  •  
  • North America and Oceania showing healthy growth: Both regions demonstrated over 20% growth in both value and volume metrics.

 

 

 

Ready to ride global momentum at #CIMAMotor2025! Register here. 

UtahSBA Round 4: Norton Continues KOM Win Streak

Mathilde Gasnier
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UtahSBA Round 4: Norton Continues KOM Win Streak

Superbike Racing resumed in Utah after a brief summer break. Round 4 of the Utah Sport Bike Association, “Masters of the Mountains” series presented by Utah Motorcycle Law took place July 19th and 20th at Burt Brothers Motorpark. This Round was slated to take place on the East course configuration, but during a track inspection the day before the event, track management discovered a buckled curbing on track that presented an obvious safety concern. Despite their best efforts, they were unable to get the repair completed in time and the event would be moved to the West course at the last minute in the interest of rider and participant safety.

On to the West track bikes rolled to kick off the second half of the 2025 season. As always Friday’s practice and trackday was hosted by USBA partner Apex Trackdays to kick off the weekend. Saturday morning the sun kissed track surface was primed and ready for qualifying as racers laid down their best laps to sort out the weekend’s grid positions with some familiar names topping the time sheets. Anthony Norton was the top qualifier at 1:29.8 followed by Brain Childree at 1:31.9 and Justin Delong clocking in at 1:32.0. With the grids set, time to go racing!

The USBA has a very unique class on race weekends called “Street GP.” This class is an introductory to racing giving street and trackday riders an opportunity to get a taste of roadracing. Entrants to this class have a combination of classroom sessions and on track sessions including a full-on lights out race. Prep is minimum for this class allowing street prepped motorcycles with proper safety gear for riders. This round there were 30 Street GP entrants getting their first racing experiences. It’s exciting to see so many fresh faces in the paddock, and many of them achieving their race licenses and kicking off their racing careers from this program.

The Vortex Racing Moto 2 novice race would kick off the weekend and set the tone for on track action. USBA newcomer Ryan Breckenridge escaped the Arizona heat to race in Utah and was the top novice middleweight qualifier. Ryan led Parker Meyer and Dakota Burford on the charge into turn 1. While they would finish in that order, it was the barrage of passing attempts between the three that ran tire to tire for 7 laps that kept things exciting. This 3-way battle would continue throughout the weekend in the remaining middleweight novice races as these riders pushed each other race after race.

 

Moto 2 Novice grid Ryan Breckenridge(347), Derek Festevan(115), ParkerMayer(775), Dakota Burford(188). Photo By Richard Jellerson
Moto 2 Novice grid Ryan Breckenridge(347), Derek Festevan(115), Parker Mayer(775), Dakota Burford(188). Photo By Richard Jellerson

 

Saturday’s main event, the “Duel in the Desert” Endurance race has become a fan and racer favorite. As sprint racing concluded for the day, Teams and Racers made their way down to pit lane preparing for a hot and grueling 90 min contest. Overall points leaders Precision Fab Machinery Racing and Paradigm Racing would start 1st and 2nd followed by a full grid of ironman, relay, and true endurance teams. The USBA now offers endurance racing entry as part of the weekend sprint racing entry fee, and it seems more racers are taking advantage as every round the grid has gotten bigger for this unique race format. When the lights went out the Precision Fab Machinery Zx10 piloted by Anthony Norton led the pack into turn 1 followed by Shane Turpin onboard the Paradigm Racing R6 and Josh Fisher in 3rd on board his relay entry ZX6r. As strategies unfolded to tackle the flag-to-flag race, the Pace set by the leaders was fiercely fast with Anthony posting laps consistently in the 1:31-1:32 range. After 26 laps, Anthony would hand over the Precision Fab Machinery Bike to Kohl Burmester who would take on a full load of fuel and head back on track. Around the halfway point, Shane Turpin had taken the Overall lead for around 8 laps when he would get the box call. Shane brought the Paradigm Racing bike down pitlane to hand over the reigns to fill in rider Alex Zinaich. Alex would take on a new tire and full load of fuel in a matter of seconds and be back on track for remainder of the race. During the paradigm pit stop, Kohl Burmester, Team owner and rider of the Precision Fab Machinery entry, would assume the lead. Meanwhile, the Hardline Excavation ironman entrants never seem to stop spinning laps as Mark Taylor Lead Richard Findlay and Robert Jojola in the class. Richard Findlay would suffer a mechanical costing him valuable time in the race but was able to rejoin and end up 3rd in class. Robert, better known around the paddock as JoJo, had a conservation strategy attempting to run the whole race without stopping for a break or fuel. JoJo finished 2nd in class and Mark Taylor stopping only once for a quick splash of fuel secured the ironman endurance Victory onboard his Zx4r. The overall Endurance lead would change hands once more as Burmester brought the Precision Fab Machinery bike down pitlane for another fuel stop and handed the bike back to Anthony Norton who would finish the race. Norton left pitlane on the same Dunlop tires he had started the race on, now in p2 overall trying to hunt down the race leader, Alex Zinaich. Norton would retake the lead with about 15 minutes left and the Precision Fab Machinery team would take the overall and true endurance class victory followed by Paradigm Racing in 2nd with the relay team of Josh Fisher, Ryan Breckenridge, and Chris Mousley 3rd overall but 1st in class. 2 more rounds of endurance remain with the final round being Double points, and 3 hours long on the Prestigious Perimeter Course. Don’t miss out on this epic event and Pre-Register at Utahsba.com

Team Endurance Podium.Photo by Crystal Doll
Team Endurance Podium. Photo by Crystal Doll

With Saturday Racing in the books, racers enjoyed tacos and podium ceremonies as they prepared for another full day of racing action on Sunday.

Sunday morning Kicked off with warm-up sessions that lead right into racing. The Weekend Garage Middleweight SBK Expert race kicked the day off with Shane Turpin leading the first race into turn one on the first lap followed closely by Josh Fisher and rookie expert racer Alex Cantrell in 3rd. Shane would lead the race start to finish but the battle for 2nd and 3rd would heat up as Cantrell and Fisher would battle over 2nd. After taking the 2nd spot, Cantrell would suffer a mechanical leaving Fisher in 2nd and promoting Nicholas Scmit to a podium position in 3rd to end the race.

In The Edge Powersports Open Superstock Expert race, Justin Delong would jump off to an early lead with pole sitter Anthony Norton starting the race from pit lane on his team endurance bike. By lap 5, Norton was on the hunt having moved through the field with Delong in sight. Anthony Norton made a move out of turn 2 and up the inside into turn 3 for the lead and would take the win a lap later with Justin 2nd Jerry Hicks, previous #1 plate holder making his return to the USBA podium in 3rd.

 

Anthony Norton Finishing 1st in Open Superstock. Photo by Richard Jellerson
Anthony Norton Finishing 1st in Open Superstock. Photo by Richard Jellerson 

 

Both the above-mentioned races served as precursors to the Premier Burt Brothers King of the Mountain Race. All the top Riders in the club take to the grid for the glory and the big payouts of the KOM Race.

Unfortunately, one of the top contenders, Justin Delong, was unable to make the race due to a mechanical, but there was no lack in talent or speed on this grid with some big names and former champions taking part. When the lights went out, the current KOM champion Anthony Norton took the lead and the holeshot followed closely by Brian Childree and Shane Turpin. Chris Mousley and Steven Marco battled for the 4th spot with Mousley taking the spot on the second lap. By lap 5 Norton still led Childree followed by Turpin with Mousley in 4th but Jerry Hicks having missed qualifying and started at the back of the grid had made his way up to 5th. Hicks made the move on Mousley for the 4th spot and started his charge to the podium. Norton out front had developed a gap and Childree seemed to be safe in 2nd with the laps winding down but Shane Turpin in 3rd on the Yamaha r6 was starting to feel the pressure of a hard Charging Jerry Hicks. When The Checkered Flag waved Your top 4 would consist of 4 current and former #1 plate holders for the club with Norton, Childree, Turpin and Hicks in that order, Hicks falling just short of the podium fight by less than a second. Chris Mousley would round out the Top5.

 

Left-to-Right Shane Turpin, Anthony Norton, Brian Childree. Photo by Richard Jellerson
Left-to-Right Shane Turpin, Anthony Norton, Brian Childree. Photo by Richard Jellerson

 

When asked about his Race, Norton would have this to say: “I’m just super grateful. So Rad to be in such great company with Brian, Shane, And Jerry in this race. I looked up to all 3 of these guys when I first raced with USBA here in Utah and to be able to grid up and battle with them is such an honor. Can’t wait to do it again next round. Thanks to Kohl, my friend and Teammate for allowing me to race endurance with him and use our team bike for this race since my bike blew up this morning in warmup. My Dunlop tires were amazing, and I can’t thank Dale at Racers Edge enough for the continued support. I knew I couldn’t take a lap of with these guys behind me, so I just put my head down from the start and counted down the laps. Got to thank Precision Fab Machinery, Apex Assassins, Legal Ride, Crossbeam Builders and Vortex Racing for making this thing happen. Also, Happy Birthday to my Better Half Stacey, thankful to have her here with me this weekend, and her support always.”

Round 4 is in the books, and the penultimate round is just a few short weeks away. Registration is open for the final 2 rounds. Round 6 being the Grand Finale will be held on the Perimeter Circuit, a rider favorite, known for its key features and extremely fast front straight. The USBA would like to thank the continued support from its ridership and local community and especially the great group of sponsors, without whom this season wouldn’t be possible.

 

  • Round 5 August 9th-10th
  • Round 6 September 6th-7th

Visit Utahsba.com for full results and more information.

 

USBA 2025 Round 4 results RRW

2025 Harley-Davidson Homecoming Festival Revs Up Milwaukee

Mathilde Gasnier
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2025 Harley-Davidson Homecoming Festival Revs Up Milwaukee

Dates Announced for 2026 H-D Homecoming Festival

The four-day 2025 Harley-Davidson Homecoming® Festival immersed the Milwaukee region in music and moto-culture July 10-13, drawing thousands of enthusiasts to Veterans Park, the Harley-Davidson Museum, Harley-Davidson Headquarters and Davidson Park, and to local Harley-Davidson dealerships.

The annual Harley-Davidson Homecoming® Festival represents a commitment by Harley-Davidson to its hometown community and a way to promote this vibrant region. Next year’s annual Harley-Davidson Homecoming® Festival is scheduled for July 9-12, 2026, in Milwaukee.

 

Some key highlights of the 2025 Harley-Davidson Homecoming® Festival include: 

Veterans Park on the Milwaukee Lakefront – Chris Stapleton Rocks the Main Stage

Chris Stapleton played to a sold-out crowd on the main stage following performances by additional acts including Turnpike Troubadours, Sierra Ferrell, 49 Winchester, The Droptines, ÖOF TATATÁ, and other artists to close out the event. The Monster Energy Freestyle Motocross Shows featuring pro riders Axell Hodges and Takayuki Higashino thrilled onlookers on Friday and Saturday. Unfortunately, due to severe weather in the area, Harley-Davidson had to end Friday’s show earlier than hoped. Due to the shortened performance schedule, all 1-day Friday tickets purchased through official festival ticketing agent Front Gate Tickets will receive a full refund and all 2-day tickets purchased through Front Gate Tickets will receive a 50 percent refund.

 

“The decision to evacuate Veterans Park early on Friday was not made lightly, but safety is always our top priority — for our riders, our fans, and our employees,” said Theo Keetell, VP of Marketing. “We knew weather would become a factor later in the evening and made the call early to ensure everyone had time to seek shelter and get off the roads safely. Protecting our community comes first, always.”

 

The Harley-Davidson Museum/Milwaukee

On Thursday night the Harley-Davidson Museum hosted the Official Harley-Davidson Homecoming® Festival Kickoff Party and Military Appreciation Day, featuring a free concert performance by Buckcherry on the Harley-Davidson Museum Rockford Fosgate® stage. More than 15,000 motorcycles and more than 32,000 attendees visited the Harley-Davidson Museum during the run of the Harley-Davidson Homecoming Festival to experience the Ives Brothers Wall of Death Stunt Show, the V-Twin Visionary Custom Motorcycle Showcase and many more activities.

 

Harley-Davidson Powertrain Operations/Menomonee Falls, Wis.

Guests enjoyed a self-guided tour of engine assembly and machining at Harley-Davidson Powertrain Operations in the Milwaukee suburb of Menomonee Falls. A wide selection of 2025 Harley-Davidson motorcycles were available for free test rides.

 

Harley-Davidson Headquarters/Juneau Avenue, Milwaukee

A guided Juneau Avenue Historical Tour through and around the current company Headquarters that once served as the original manufacturing factory was enjoyed by guests. Juneau Avenue was also the starting point for the Women’s Ride on Saturday morning in memory of “the first lady of motorcycling” Nancy Davidson and supporting the Cancer Research Institute™. Davidson Park, the outdoor community hub created by the Harley-Davidson Foundation, hosted a relaxing oasis for riders with free music, an antique motorcycle show, and lawn games.

 

Harley-Davidson Dealership Events

Six Milwaukee-area authorized Harley-Davidson dealerships hosted events and entertainment during the run of the Harley-Davidson Homecoming® Festival. Those dealerships include House of Harley-Davidson (Greenfield), Milwaukee Harley-Davidson (Milwaukee), Suburban Motors Harley-Davidson (Thiensville), Uke’s Harley-Davidson (Kenosha), West Bend Harley-Davidson (West Bend), and Wisconsin Harley-Davidson (Oconomowoc).

Visit www.hdhomecoming.com and follow @hdhomecoming on Instagram and Facebook to be the first to know about the 2026 lineup, tickets, and more festival updates.

Assets from throughout the weekend can be found at https://h-dmediakit.com

 

About Harley-Davidson

Harley-Davidson, Inc. is the parent company of Harley-Davidson Motor Company and Harley-Davidson Financial Services. Our vision: Building our legend and leading our industry through innovation, evolution and emotion. Our mission: More than building machines, we stand for the timeless pursuit of adventure. Freedom for the soul. Since 1903, Harley-Davidson has defined motorcycle culture with an expanding range of leading-edge, distinctive and customizable motorcycles in addition to riding experiences and exceptional motorcycle accessories, riding gear and apparel. Harley-Davidson Financial Services provides financing, insurance and other programs to help get Harley-Davidson riders on the road. Learn more at www.harley-davidson.com.

MotoGP™ to race in Japan until 2030

Mathilde Gasnier
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MotoGP™ to race in Japan until 2030

Five more visits to Motegi are confirmed for the most exciting sport on Earth.

MotoGP will return to the Mobility Resort Motegi until 2030. Japan is an established and important market for the sport, welcoming a fanbase renowned around the world for its commitment and passion for MotoGP.

With the full 2026 calendar soon to be revealed, fans can look forward to another five years of the Japanese Grand Prix as a highlight of the flyaways.

Tsuyoshi Saito, President, Honda Mobilityland Corporation: “We are very pleased to announce that we will be hosting MotoGP Japan at Mobility Resort Motegi in and after 2026. We would like to express our sincere gratitude towards Mr. Carmelo Ezpeleta, Dorna Sports and everyone who has been a great support in extending this hosting contract.

“We will continue to aim for further development of motorcycle sports and sustainable event management. As we make the most of the rich natural environment of Motegi, we will keep working to present Grand Prix that can be enjoyed by many more fans. In cooperation with local residents of Tochigi and Ibaraki prefectures and the town of Motegi and various government agencies, we hope to offer even more attractive Grand Prix events than before.”

Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of MotoGP rights holder Dorna Sports: “Japan is important for MotoGP. Motegi always puts on a fantastic show and is a point of reference on the calendar for its event organisation. Japanese MotoGP fans are incredibly knowledgeable and we’re very happy to confirm we’ll race with them until 2030.”

Video: King Kenny Roberts, Icon & 3-Time World Champion

John Ulrich
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Video: King Kenny Roberts, Icon & 3-Time World Champion

Kenny Roberts, a legendary figure in motorcycle racing, is celebrated for his many remarkable achievements, including winning two AMA Grand National Championships and three consecutive FIM 500cc Grand Prix World Championships. His fierce competitiveness and innovative riding style revolutionized the sport, making him a pioneer for generations of racers.

(Editorial Note: Kenny Roberts’ memorabilia now lives in the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum and he served as Grand Marshall of the Barber Vintage Festival in 2024. He currently is running his own MotoAmerica Talent Cup team with young racer Kody Kopp.)

Watch the video here:

https://youtu.be/M7Xq-vxS9iw

R.I.P.: Businessman, Rider, Sponsor, Collector Daniel Schoenewald

John Ulrich
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R.I.P.: Businessman, Rider, Sponsor, Collector Daniel Schoenewald

Editorial Note: Over a period of decades, Daniel Schoenewald sponsored several racers in AMA competition, including his son Tristan, Jake Zemke, Rich Oliver and others. A celebration of his life was held last weekend and attracted hundreds of people from all over the world. His official obituary follows:

Daniel Schoenewald, who built a successful servo drive business that powers motion control systems for thousands of products worldwide and transformed a lifelong passion for riding motorcycles into an expansive collection and global emblem of his philanthropic spirit, died Thursday, April 24, 2025, from a heart attack. He was 71. 

Daniel Schoenewald with one of his favorite bikes, a Norton. He rode the bikes in his collection. Photo courtesy Kaming Ko.

A soft-spoken man, his endless stories of living in Tripoli, Libya, working oil rigs off the Gulf coast, Alaska and West Africa, group rides along Mulholland Highway to the Rock Store, and landing Steve McQueen’s 1942 Indian Sport Scout, sounded like legendary lore but were in fact a rich tapestry of Daniel living life to the fullest. This would often be followed with an expansive story that then turned into a shaggy dog intentionally silly with an even sillier, long drawn-out, impeccable punch line that led to chuckles, snorts, smiles and laughs.

Daniel Schoenewald was born on March 12, 1954, in Venezuela to Don and Norma Schoenewald. Daniel’s father was a geologist, which took the family around the world to Venezuela, Libya, Singapore and finally Dallas, Texas. Daniel went to boarding school in Rome, Italy and Switzerland. He graduated from Richardson (Texas) High School in 1972 and then North Texas State (Now University of North Texas) in 1982. Daniel’s travels helped shape his incredible intellect, wisdom, entrepreneurialism, selflessness, and values rooted in kindness and sharing with others.

In 1983, Daniel married Felicia Rakauskas, an Australian who was always by his side, helping support many charitable causes – donating time, money, and resources and community programs. An adoring husband, devoted father and grandfather, Felicia survives him, as do a son and daughter, Tylia Long (Dustin) and Tristan Schoenewald (Jessica), six grandchildren, Riella, Elliot, and Jaxton Long; Stevie and Avery Schoenewald with another Schoenewald on the way; sister Darnella DeLisse, brother DJ; and numerous in-laws, nieces, and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents, brother David and granddaughter Aurora Long.

In 1987, Daniel Schoenewald founded ADVANCED Motion Controls (AMC) with his partner Sándor Barta. The international business has built and shipped nearly 3 million servo axes worldwide from their Camarillo headquarters.

“I didn’t want to be the biggest I just wanted to be the best,” said Daniel in a quote on AMC’s website, where you will also find his humorous ways in a blog post by an AMC Marketing Engineer titled, “What is a Servo Drive? From Basics to Expert,” with “basics” explained to a 5-year-old. “You can stop whenever you feel comfortable,” the post quips.

A mentor to many, Daniel was a pillar of the Camarillo and Ventura County community he called home for more than three decades. Whether through the Rotary Club of Camarillo Sunrise, YMCA, Boys & Girls Club of Camarillo, A Taste of Camarillo, or kidSTREAM Children’s Museum, Daniel lent his expertise to many community projects and programs.

Every year, Daniel opened his private motorcycle collection up to the public, culminating in an annual ride with the Southern California Norton Owners Club. The 20,000 square foot area above AMC’s offices houses rows and rows of rare Ducatis, Triumphs, and other performance bikes all for riding on the streets or on a racetrack. Daniel was not afraid to put miles on even his most prized bikes. “I don’t want to have a show bike… These bikes get ridden,” Daniel told the Camarillo Acorn in a 2020 article featuring his collection.

Witnessing the array of helmets, riding gear, motorcycle parts, shining chrome and a one-of-a-kind collection, friend Dale Wagler described it as watching a kid in the candy store. Except Daniel owned the candy, the store, and shared it with everyone. When he wasn’t adding another ride to his collection, he was inviting others in his tight knit motorcycle community to take one out for a spin.

Riding a sea of successes and triumphs, Daniel approached life with generosity, humility, love, a smile and by being present; around Daniel, you were the most important person. He was so much to so many. Daniel’s passing is profound. His legacy of memorable encounters, lives touched, people inspired, and giving nature, will live on for generations to come. A Celebration of Life will be held in the summer.

Godspeed Daniel. Enjoy the ride.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Daniel’s memory to the Daniel Schoenewald Memorial Fund with the Camarillo Breakfast Rotary Foundation, Inc. https://tinyurl.com/ClickHeretoHonorDaniel.

Talent Cup: Ice Barn Racing Adds Engineering Students To Crew

Mathilde Gasnier
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Talent Cup: Ice Barn Racing Adds Engineering Students To Crew

In order to bolster the team’s technical prowess and help develop the next generation of motorsports technical talent, Ice Barn Racing welcomes aboard two engineering students from the Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology. Ayden Snedigar and Thornton Thomas have joined team rider Solly Mervis’s crew. Mervis himself, from Carmel, Indiana, is also an engineering student at Rose-Hulman.

Snedigar and Thomas will be with the team this weekend at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course as Mervis competes in round four of the MotoAmerica Parts Unlimited Talent Cup By Motul Championship, which will be part of AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days, also taking place this weekend at Mid-Ohio.

 

Ayden Snedigar (kneeling) and Thornton Thomas are applying their motorsports engineering prowess to the Ice Barn Racing Team. Photo courtesy of Ice Barn Racing
Ayden Snedigar (kneeling) and Thornton Thomas are applying their motorsports engineering prowess to the Ice Barn Racing Team. Photo courtesy of Ice Barn Racing

 

A junior at Rose-Hulman, Snedigar, who is from Monroe, Ohio, is pursuing a degree in mechanical engineering with a minor in computer science, He has served as a Front Desk and Machine Shop Supervisor at Rose-Hulman’s Branam & Kramer Innovation Center where he is gaining valuable experience in manufacturing and machine shop operations. Snedigar also completed a internship at Hydrotech Inc. where he worked on the Rose-Hulman Grand Prix Engineering Team to develop and refine MoTeC ECU strategies. 

Thomas, a junior from Arlington, Virginia, is also pursuing a degree in mechanical engineering, and he is no stranger to motorsports and data analytics. This past year, he served as the Suspension Sub-Team Lead and Lead Driver for Rose-Hulman’s Grand Prix Engineering Team. He successfully inherited and completed the team’s suspension build mid-year, redesigned custom components to resolve clearance issues, and led the design of an electric vehicle suspension system, utilizing OptimumKinematics, SolidWorks, and ANSYS during the process.

“Professional motorsports continues to see technology play an integral role in the success of race teams,” commented Ice Barn Racing Team owner Josh Mervis. “Ice Barn’s goal is to provide talented students with opportunities to experience the real-world pressures of professional racing. The experience Thornton and Ayden are getting as crew members on the Ice Barn Racing Team give them insights that go way beyond textbooks and classroom learning, while helping to prepare them for successful careers after graduation.”

 

Thomas (left) and Snedigar (right) work on fellow Rose-Hulman student Solly Mervis’s Krämer APX-350 MA Talent Cup machine. Photo courtesy of Ice Barn Racing
Thomas (left) and Snedigar (right) work on fellow Rose-Hulman student Solly Mervis’s Krämer APX-350 MA Talent Cup machine. Photo courtesy of Ice Barn Racing

 

Ice Barn Racing, located in Carmel, Indiana, was founded in 2023 to support Solly Mervis’s racing journey. The team and operation are dedicated to bolstering and propelling Mervis as an exceptional role model for young individuals.

Here’s this weekend’s schedule for the Parts Unlimited Talent Cup By Motul Championship at Mid-Ohio:

• Friday
11:35 am – Talent Cup Practice 1 – 25 minutes
4:30 pm – Talent Cup Qualifying 1 – 30 min

• Saturday
8:30 am – Talent Cup Qualifying 2 – 30 minutes
12 Noon – Talent Cup Race 1 – 10 Laps

• Sunday
9:40 am – Talent Cup Warm Up – 15 minutes
12 Noon – Talent Cup Race 2 – 10 laps

World Superbike: Preview Of The Hungarian Round

Toprak Razgatlioglu on his ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team (1) and Nicolo Bulega on his Aruba.it Racing - Ducati (11). Photo courtesy Dorna.
Toprak Razgatlioglu on his ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team (1) and Nicolo Bulega on his Aruba.it Racing - Ducati (11). Photo courtesy Dorna.

Balaton Park hosts Round 8 of the 2025 season as the title fight has ignited in recent rounds, while the Superpole Race is set to be a milestone race for the Championship.

The MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship heads to Hungary for the first time since 1990 as Balaton Park hosts its first round. While it will be the circuit’s first WorldSBK event, the Championship will celebrate its 1000th race, scheduled to be the Tissot Superpole Race. It comes as the lead in the title fight changed hands last time out at Donington, with four points separating new leader Toprak Razgatlioglu (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) and Nicolo Bulega (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) heading into the Hungarian Round.

Little To Separate The Top Two: just four points in it…

Razgatlioglu’s on a run of eight wins in nine races, and six on the bounce, following his Donington hat-trick and that has helped him turn a 42-point deficit leaving Australia into a four-point advantage ahead of Round 8. Bulega has been able to closely match his rival at Most, Misano and Donington – circuits ‘El Turco’ dominated at last year – but Balaton Park is a new challenge for all, with only some stock bike testing taking place there and not the entire WorldSBK field. Both Razgatlioglu and Bulega did get some laps in at the Hungarian venue.

The Fight For Third: Petrucci vs Bautista vs Locatelli

The momentum is ebbing and flowing as three riders scrap it out for third in the world. P3 is currently held by Danilo Petrucci (Barni Spark Racing Team) but he’s just 15 points clear of Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) in fourth and the #19 will have a spring in his step following his Race 2 rostrum at Donington. Then there’s Andrea Locatelli (Pata Maxus Yamaha), who’s been aiming to maximise his Yamaha R1 package every weekend to stay in the fight, with three top-five finishes at Donington comfortably his best at the British circuit. Out of this group, only Bautista ventured to Balaton for time on the street bike.

Positives To Take From Donington: Rea takes step forward, Alex Lowes fighting for podiums?

Jonathan Rea (Pata Maxus Yamaha) had a strong weekend at Donington. Despite a tech issue in Race 2, it was his best weekend of 2025 as he fought for the top five positions. He’ll hope to take that momentum forward into Hungary where there has been limited running and no races, with everyone on a level playing field. It’s similar for Ryan Vickers (Motocorsa Racing) who didn’t have to learn Donington and showed his true pace by fighting inside the top ten. Balaton is similar but different – while he will have to learn the track, so will everyone else. Garrett Gerloff (Kawasaki WorldSBK Team) has been making gains on the ZX-10RR machine and the Texan will hope that continues in Hungary as he hopes to keep his position in the top ten. Alex Lowes (bimota by Kawasaki Racing Team) put Bimota on the front row at Donington and, if he’s declared fit following an ankle sprain suffered in a crash in Race 1 at Donington, will be hoping to repeat that speed – of course, there could be some symmetry too if either he or teammate Axel Bassani is able to win the Superpole Race, after Bimota won the first ever WorldSBK race with Davide Tardozzi. Sam Lowes (ELF Marc VDS Racing Team) will hope to keep his form going after taking a podium last time out at Donington.

Aiming For The Top Ten: can Aegerter keep his form going, will Honda bounce back?

Dominique Aegerter (GYTR GRT Yamaha WorldSBK Team) has often struggled throughout 2025 but appeared to make a breakthrough in the UK with three top ten finishes, including a season’s best P7 in Race 1. Teammate Remy Gardner was also in the top ten fight, finishing P12 twice and P9 in the Superpole Race. As for the Honda HRC duo of Iker Lecuona and Xavi Vierge, they struggled at Donington but will aim to bounce back at Balaton to continue a season where they have largely been on a positive trend. Yari Montella (Barni Spark Racing Team) will hope to continue his strong rookie campaign going, and Andrea Iannone (Team Pata GoEleven) will be looking for a return to the podium fight for a season of struggle so far. Michael van der Mark (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team) has also had a tricky year and will hope for better fortunes at a new venue. Michael Rinaldi (Yamaha Motoxracing WorldSBK Team) and teammate Bahattin Sofuoglu will again be aiming for points. Tito Rabat (PETRONAS MIE Honda Racing Team) has his second weekend at the Independent MIE Honda squad, joined by the returning Zaqhwan Zaidi. Tarran Mackenzie finds himself back among the WorldSBK paddock, as he and MGM BONOVO have reached a deal to replace Scott Redding atop their Ducati V4 R. Redding for his part will be competing in British Superbikes until further notice, yet the nature of Mackenzie’s contract has not yet been confirmed.

Watch the Donington highlights show HERE, read the Official Programme for Hungary HERE and watch every moment from the UK using the WorldSBK VideoPass – now 65% off!

Yamaha Honors Champions of SkillsUSA® and U.S. Technician Grand Prix

In the WTGP, technicians compete with the aim of improving customer satisfaction. Photo courtesy Global Yamaha Motor.
In the WTGP, technicians compete with the aim of improving customer satisfaction. Photo courtesy Global Yamaha Motor.

Yamaha Continues to Support and Grow the Next Generation of Powersports Technicians

 

Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA and Yamaha Motor University (YMU) are proud to recognize the winners of the United States Technician Grand Prix (USTGP) and SkillsUSA® National Championships held at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, from June 23-27, 2025. This marks the fourth consecutive year that Yamaha and SkillsUSA® have partnered in developing the next generation of powersports technicians, as well as providing students the opportunity to work directly alongside top-performing Yamaha dealership professionals.

“Yamaha strongly believes in training, and supporting SkillsUSA is one of the big ways we are able to show it,” said John Grubb, YMU Training Manager. “I am proud of the discussion we host between SkillsUSA contestants and U.S. Tech Grand Prix finalists from our Yamaha dealers. The up-and-coming techs truly appreciate being able to get honest answers about the industry from seasoned Yamaha professionals, and it’s been a big hit on both sides.”

 

2025 SkillsUSA®: Motorcycle Service Technology Champions

For the fourth consecutive year, Yamaha sponsored the Motorcycle Service Technology contest inside SkillsUSA®. With labs covering a range of real-world service tasks and customer service needs, contestants had to rotate through eight timed and proctored stations on their path to earning top honors. Yamaha and YMU recognize the following students:

  • High School Gold: Mason McConnell – Excelsior Springs Area Career Center, Excelsior Springs, Mo.
  • High School Silver: Jeremy Lanza – Medina County Career Center, Medina, Ohio
  • High School Bronze: Sam H Rowe – Heritage Hills High School, Lincoln City, Ind.

 

  • College Gold: Ayden Stratz – Uintah Basin Technical College-Vernal, Vernal, Utah
  • College Silver: Jacob I Taylor – Alexandria Technical & Community College, Alexandria, Minn.
  • College Bronze: Peter Barrett – Tennessee College of Applied Tech-Chattanooga, Chattanooga, Tenn.

 

2025 Yamaha United States Technician Grand Prix (USTGP) Champions

The Yamaha USTGP is a challenging, hands-on technical skills competition where Yamaha dealership technicians must accurately diagnose vehicle problems and professionally resolve customer service issues. Contestants work through each lab under close supervision from Yamaha staff, and the winning technician qualifies for the international championship round held at Yamaha’s headquarters in Iwata, Japan. This year, Aaron Lawson of MOMS Foxboro earned the right to represent the United States at the world level. Mr. Lawson will join last year’s U.S. Technician Grand Prix winner, Brian Ladner, as they compete in Japan from Nov. 18-21. YMU recognizes Mr. Lawson and all the skilled finalists:

 

  • Gold: Aaron Lawson – MOMS Foxboro, Foxborough, Mass.
  • Silver: Aaron Schultz – Fondy Powersports, Fond du Lac, Wis.
  • Bronze: William Anderson – Orlando Yamaha Kawasaki, Orlando, Fla.

 

Finalists:

  • Jeffery Gibson – Northern Idaho Powersports, Sandpoint, Idaho
  • Jeff Policky – RideNow Powersports Tucson, Tucson, Ariz.
  • Marshall Lobo – Temecula Motorsports, Murrieta, Calif.

 

For more information about SkillsUSA®, visit https://www.skillsusa.org/

For more information about the World Technician Grand Prix, visit https://global.yamaha-motor.com/business/mc/customer-support/wtgp/

For more information related to all Yamaha products, visit https://www.yamahamotorsports.com.

 

About SkillsUSA®

Representing nearly 400,000 career and technical education students and teachers, SkillsUSA® chapters thrive in middle schools, high schools, and college/postsecondary institutions nationwide. Their mission is accomplished through the SkillsUSA® Framework of Personal Skills, Workplace Skills, and Technical Skills Grounded in Academics, which is integrated into classroom curriculum.

Through the Framework, SkillsUSA® students hone their hands-on skills against current industry standards in more than 130 occupational areas, from 3-D Animation to Welding and nearly everything in between. At the same time, they develop the transformative career-readiness skills — teamwork, communication, professionalism, leadership and more — that fuel career and life success.

A vital solution to the ongoing skills gap, where more highly skilled jobs are available than skilled professionals ready to fill them, SkillsUSA® has served more than 14.6 million diverse, difference-making members since 1965.

 

About Yamaha World Technician Grand Prix (WTGP)

The Yamaha World Technician Grand Prix is an international, skill-based contest where Yamaha technicians put their troubleshooting and diagnosis skills to the test against other technicians from around the globe. Each participating country holds a national Technician GP competition to determine a winner, and the champion is sent to the WTGP finals to represent the United States. 

The intention of Yamaha is not only to use WTGP to promote high levels of motivation and improve skills in motorcycle technicians, but also to improve customer satisfaction by continuing to train proficient technicians capable of maintaining Yamaha motorcycles, and to ensure that as many people as possible understand the importance of aftercare services in order to contribute to the revitalization of the entire motorcycle industry and to raise the status of motorcycle technicians.

 

 

About Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA

Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA (YMUS), is a recognized leader in the outdoor recreation industry. The company’s ever-expanding product offerings include Motorcycles and Scooters, ATV and Side-by-Side vehicles, Snowmobiles, Personal Watercraft, Boats, Outboard Motors, Outdoor Power Equipment, Power Assist Bicycles, Golf Cars [sold, serviced, and distributed by Yamaha Golf-Car Company], Power Assist Wheelchair Systems, Surface Mount Technology and Robotic Machines, Unmanned Helicopters, Accessories, Apparel, Yamalube products, and much more. YMUS products are sold through a nationwide network of distributors and dealers in the United States.

YMUS has a corporate office in California, three corporate offices in Georgia, as well as facilities in Wisconsin, Alabama, and Florida. YMUS subsidiaries Yamaha Motor Manufacturing Corporation of America (YMMC), based in Georgia, and Yamaha Jet Boat Manufacturing USA (YJBM) based in Tennessee, each assemble and manufacture selected Yamaha brand products. YMUS owns Skeeter Boats [Texas] with its division G3 Boats [Missouri]. Additional U.S.-based subsidiaries include Yamaha Marine Systems Company, Inc. (YMSC) with subsidiary Siren Marine [Rhode Island] and divisions Bennett Marine [Florida], Yamaha Marine Rotational Molders [Wisconsin] and Yamaha Precision Propeller Inc. [Indiana].

Yamaha Motor Finance Corporation, USA (Yamaha Financial Services), an affiliate of YMUS, offers financing solutions to support Yamaha Dealers and loyal Yamaha Customers nationwide. Yamaha Financial Services provides retail and commercial financing for the diverse line of Yamaha brand motor products based out of Cypress, CA and Marietta, GA.

 

About Yamaha Motor University

Established in 2003 as the Motorsports training division for YMUS, Yamaha Motor University (YMU) provides Parts, Sales, and Technical Service training for Yamaha dealership personnel. Since its founding, YMU has trained and certified thousands of dealership staff with real-world training and education to ensure Yamaha customers receive industry-leading service and support.

Gendron-Belen Joining Dobbs & Lloyd At WorldWCR Round

Elisa Gendron Belen is returning for her third season with Karns Performance. Photo courtesy Karns Performance.

The FIM Women’s Circuit Racing World Championship (WorldWCR) has added a third American rider to its entry list for this weekend’s event at Balaton Park Circuit located in Balatonfőkajár, Hungary, which is a little over 50 miles from Budapest.

Former Junior Cup rider and current SC-Project Twins Cup competitor Elisa Gendron Belen, who races in MotoAmerica for Karns/TST Industries, has been selected as a wild-card entry by the Pons Motorsport Italika Racing Team. Gendron Belen will join Mallory Dobbs and Sonya Lloyd as the third American competing in WorldWCR.

Elisa Gendron Belen will compete as a wild card at this weekend’s WorldWCR round in Hungary. Image courtesy of Elisa Gendron Belen.
Elisa Gendron Belen will compete as a wild card at this weekend’s WorldWCR round in Hungary. Image courtesy of Elisa Gendron Belen.

According to a Pons Motorsport Italika Racing Team social media post, Gendron Belen will replace Chilean rider Isis Carreño, who is currently recovering from an injury. Gendron Belen has previously raced for the Italika Racing program in Mexico where she competed in the Italika Women’s International Cup, considered to be the most important women’s racing championship in Latin America.

Good luck, Elisa!

China Motorcycle Exports Jump 41% to 5.6M Units in Early 2025

Trade Visitor Service at CIMAMotor--China International Motorcycle Trade Exhibition. Photo courtesy CIMAMotor
The scene at a CIMAMotor--China International Motorcycle Trade Show. Photo courtesy CIMAMotor

From Jan–Apr 2025, China exported 5.59M motorcycles (+41.14% YoY), worth $3.52B (+44.35%), according to the China Chamber of Commerce for Motorcycle (CCCM).

Top markets:
Latin America: 2.21M units (+55.31%), $1.32B (+64.27%)

Africa: Fastest growth! 1.67M units (+72.58%), $882M (+75.85%)
Imports down: 15.8K units (-7.07%), $90.4M (-29.12%)

 

 

Key Insights:

  • Strong growth in Latin America and Africa: Export value increased by 64.27% and 75.85% respectively, with volume growth of 55.31% and 72.58%.
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  • Asia market underperformed: The only region with negative growth, showing a 6.55% decline in value and 3.83% decline in volume.
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  • Significant overall growth: Total export value grew by 44.35% with volume increasing by 41.14% year-over-year.
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  • Steady growth in Europe: 51.47% increase in export value and 45.87% increase in volume.
  •  
  • North America and Oceania showing healthy growth: Both regions demonstrated over 20% growth in both value and volume metrics.

 

 

 

Ready to ride global momentum at #CIMAMotor2025! Register here. 

UtahSBA Round 4: Norton Continues KOM Win Streak

Anthony Norton (83). Photo by Richard Jellerson
Anthony Norton (83). Photo by Richard Jellerson

Superbike Racing resumed in Utah after a brief summer break. Round 4 of the Utah Sport Bike Association, “Masters of the Mountains” series presented by Utah Motorcycle Law took place July 19th and 20th at Burt Brothers Motorpark. This Round was slated to take place on the East course configuration, but during a track inspection the day before the event, track management discovered a buckled curbing on track that presented an obvious safety concern. Despite their best efforts, they were unable to get the repair completed in time and the event would be moved to the West course at the last minute in the interest of rider and participant safety.

On to the West track bikes rolled to kick off the second half of the 2025 season. As always Friday’s practice and trackday was hosted by USBA partner Apex Trackdays to kick off the weekend. Saturday morning the sun kissed track surface was primed and ready for qualifying as racers laid down their best laps to sort out the weekend’s grid positions with some familiar names topping the time sheets. Anthony Norton was the top qualifier at 1:29.8 followed by Brain Childree at 1:31.9 and Justin Delong clocking in at 1:32.0. With the grids set, time to go racing!

The USBA has a very unique class on race weekends called “Street GP.” This class is an introductory to racing giving street and trackday riders an opportunity to get a taste of roadracing. Entrants to this class have a combination of classroom sessions and on track sessions including a full-on lights out race. Prep is minimum for this class allowing street prepped motorcycles with proper safety gear for riders. This round there were 30 Street GP entrants getting their first racing experiences. It’s exciting to see so many fresh faces in the paddock, and many of them achieving their race licenses and kicking off their racing careers from this program.

The Vortex Racing Moto 2 novice race would kick off the weekend and set the tone for on track action. USBA newcomer Ryan Breckenridge escaped the Arizona heat to race in Utah and was the top novice middleweight qualifier. Ryan led Parker Meyer and Dakota Burford on the charge into turn 1. While they would finish in that order, it was the barrage of passing attempts between the three that ran tire to tire for 7 laps that kept things exciting. This 3-way battle would continue throughout the weekend in the remaining middleweight novice races as these riders pushed each other race after race.

 

Moto 2 Novice grid Ryan Breckenridge(347), Derek Festevan(115), ParkerMayer(775), Dakota Burford(188). Photo By Richard Jellerson
Moto 2 Novice grid Ryan Breckenridge(347), Derek Festevan(115), Parker Mayer(775), Dakota Burford(188). Photo By Richard Jellerson

 

Saturday’s main event, the “Duel in the Desert” Endurance race has become a fan and racer favorite. As sprint racing concluded for the day, Teams and Racers made their way down to pit lane preparing for a hot and grueling 90 min contest. Overall points leaders Precision Fab Machinery Racing and Paradigm Racing would start 1st and 2nd followed by a full grid of ironman, relay, and true endurance teams. The USBA now offers endurance racing entry as part of the weekend sprint racing entry fee, and it seems more racers are taking advantage as every round the grid has gotten bigger for this unique race format. When the lights went out the Precision Fab Machinery Zx10 piloted by Anthony Norton led the pack into turn 1 followed by Shane Turpin onboard the Paradigm Racing R6 and Josh Fisher in 3rd on board his relay entry ZX6r. As strategies unfolded to tackle the flag-to-flag race, the Pace set by the leaders was fiercely fast with Anthony posting laps consistently in the 1:31-1:32 range. After 26 laps, Anthony would hand over the Precision Fab Machinery Bike to Kohl Burmester who would take on a full load of fuel and head back on track. Around the halfway point, Shane Turpin had taken the Overall lead for around 8 laps when he would get the box call. Shane brought the Paradigm Racing bike down pitlane to hand over the reigns to fill in rider Alex Zinaich. Alex would take on a new tire and full load of fuel in a matter of seconds and be back on track for remainder of the race. During the paradigm pit stop, Kohl Burmester, Team owner and rider of the Precision Fab Machinery entry, would assume the lead. Meanwhile, the Hardline Excavation ironman entrants never seem to stop spinning laps as Mark Taylor Lead Richard Findlay and Robert Jojola in the class. Richard Findlay would suffer a mechanical costing him valuable time in the race but was able to rejoin and end up 3rd in class. Robert, better known around the paddock as JoJo, had a conservation strategy attempting to run the whole race without stopping for a break or fuel. JoJo finished 2nd in class and Mark Taylor stopping only once for a quick splash of fuel secured the ironman endurance Victory onboard his Zx4r. The overall Endurance lead would change hands once more as Burmester brought the Precision Fab Machinery bike down pitlane for another fuel stop and handed the bike back to Anthony Norton who would finish the race. Norton left pitlane on the same Dunlop tires he had started the race on, now in p2 overall trying to hunt down the race leader, Alex Zinaich. Norton would retake the lead with about 15 minutes left and the Precision Fab Machinery team would take the overall and true endurance class victory followed by Paradigm Racing in 2nd with the relay team of Josh Fisher, Ryan Breckenridge, and Chris Mousley 3rd overall but 1st in class. 2 more rounds of endurance remain with the final round being Double points, and 3 hours long on the Prestigious Perimeter Course. Don’t miss out on this epic event and Pre-Register at Utahsba.com

Team Endurance Podium.Photo by Crystal Doll
Team Endurance Podium. Photo by Crystal Doll

With Saturday Racing in the books, racers enjoyed tacos and podium ceremonies as they prepared for another full day of racing action on Sunday.

Sunday morning Kicked off with warm-up sessions that lead right into racing. The Weekend Garage Middleweight SBK Expert race kicked the day off with Shane Turpin leading the first race into turn one on the first lap followed closely by Josh Fisher and rookie expert racer Alex Cantrell in 3rd. Shane would lead the race start to finish but the battle for 2nd and 3rd would heat up as Cantrell and Fisher would battle over 2nd. After taking the 2nd spot, Cantrell would suffer a mechanical leaving Fisher in 2nd and promoting Nicholas Scmit to a podium position in 3rd to end the race.

In The Edge Powersports Open Superstock Expert race, Justin Delong would jump off to an early lead with pole sitter Anthony Norton starting the race from pit lane on his team endurance bike. By lap 5, Norton was on the hunt having moved through the field with Delong in sight. Anthony Norton made a move out of turn 2 and up the inside into turn 3 for the lead and would take the win a lap later with Justin 2nd Jerry Hicks, previous #1 plate holder making his return to the USBA podium in 3rd.

 

Anthony Norton Finishing 1st in Open Superstock. Photo by Richard Jellerson
Anthony Norton Finishing 1st in Open Superstock. Photo by Richard Jellerson 

 

Both the above-mentioned races served as precursors to the Premier Burt Brothers King of the Mountain Race. All the top Riders in the club take to the grid for the glory and the big payouts of the KOM Race.

Unfortunately, one of the top contenders, Justin Delong, was unable to make the race due to a mechanical, but there was no lack in talent or speed on this grid with some big names and former champions taking part. When the lights went out, the current KOM champion Anthony Norton took the lead and the holeshot followed closely by Brian Childree and Shane Turpin. Chris Mousley and Steven Marco battled for the 4th spot with Mousley taking the spot on the second lap. By lap 5 Norton still led Childree followed by Turpin with Mousley in 4th but Jerry Hicks having missed qualifying and started at the back of the grid had made his way up to 5th. Hicks made the move on Mousley for the 4th spot and started his charge to the podium. Norton out front had developed a gap and Childree seemed to be safe in 2nd with the laps winding down but Shane Turpin in 3rd on the Yamaha r6 was starting to feel the pressure of a hard Charging Jerry Hicks. When The Checkered Flag waved Your top 4 would consist of 4 current and former #1 plate holders for the club with Norton, Childree, Turpin and Hicks in that order, Hicks falling just short of the podium fight by less than a second. Chris Mousley would round out the Top5.

 

Left-to-Right Shane Turpin, Anthony Norton, Brian Childree. Photo by Richard Jellerson
Left-to-Right Shane Turpin, Anthony Norton, Brian Childree. Photo by Richard Jellerson

 

When asked about his Race, Norton would have this to say: “I’m just super grateful. So Rad to be in such great company with Brian, Shane, And Jerry in this race. I looked up to all 3 of these guys when I first raced with USBA here in Utah and to be able to grid up and battle with them is such an honor. Can’t wait to do it again next round. Thanks to Kohl, my friend and Teammate for allowing me to race endurance with him and use our team bike for this race since my bike blew up this morning in warmup. My Dunlop tires were amazing, and I can’t thank Dale at Racers Edge enough for the continued support. I knew I couldn’t take a lap of with these guys behind me, so I just put my head down from the start and counted down the laps. Got to thank Precision Fab Machinery, Apex Assassins, Legal Ride, Crossbeam Builders and Vortex Racing for making this thing happen. Also, Happy Birthday to my Better Half Stacey, thankful to have her here with me this weekend, and her support always.”

Round 4 is in the books, and the penultimate round is just a few short weeks away. Registration is open for the final 2 rounds. Round 6 being the Grand Finale will be held on the Perimeter Circuit, a rider favorite, known for its key features and extremely fast front straight. The USBA would like to thank the continued support from its ridership and local community and especially the great group of sponsors, without whom this season wouldn’t be possible.

 

  • Round 5 August 9th-10th
  • Round 6 September 6th-7th

Visit Utahsba.com for full results and more information.

 

USBA 2025 Round 4 results RRW

2025 Harley-Davidson Homecoming Festival Revs Up Milwaukee

H-D Homecoming festival -day 1. Photo courtesy Harley Davidson.
H-D Homecoming festival -day 1. Photo courtesy Harley Davidson.

Dates Announced for 2026 H-D Homecoming Festival

The four-day 2025 Harley-Davidson Homecoming® Festival immersed the Milwaukee region in music and moto-culture July 10-13, drawing thousands of enthusiasts to Veterans Park, the Harley-Davidson Museum, Harley-Davidson Headquarters and Davidson Park, and to local Harley-Davidson dealerships.

The annual Harley-Davidson Homecoming® Festival represents a commitment by Harley-Davidson to its hometown community and a way to promote this vibrant region. Next year’s annual Harley-Davidson Homecoming® Festival is scheduled for July 9-12, 2026, in Milwaukee.

 

Some key highlights of the 2025 Harley-Davidson Homecoming® Festival include: 

Veterans Park on the Milwaukee Lakefront – Chris Stapleton Rocks the Main Stage

Chris Stapleton played to a sold-out crowd on the main stage following performances by additional acts including Turnpike Troubadours, Sierra Ferrell, 49 Winchester, The Droptines, ÖOF TATATÁ, and other artists to close out the event. The Monster Energy Freestyle Motocross Shows featuring pro riders Axell Hodges and Takayuki Higashino thrilled onlookers on Friday and Saturday. Unfortunately, due to severe weather in the area, Harley-Davidson had to end Friday’s show earlier than hoped. Due to the shortened performance schedule, all 1-day Friday tickets purchased through official festival ticketing agent Front Gate Tickets will receive a full refund and all 2-day tickets purchased through Front Gate Tickets will receive a 50 percent refund.

 

“The decision to evacuate Veterans Park early on Friday was not made lightly, but safety is always our top priority — for our riders, our fans, and our employees,” said Theo Keetell, VP of Marketing. “We knew weather would become a factor later in the evening and made the call early to ensure everyone had time to seek shelter and get off the roads safely. Protecting our community comes first, always.”

 

The Harley-Davidson Museum/Milwaukee

On Thursday night the Harley-Davidson Museum hosted the Official Harley-Davidson Homecoming® Festival Kickoff Party and Military Appreciation Day, featuring a free concert performance by Buckcherry on the Harley-Davidson Museum Rockford Fosgate® stage. More than 15,000 motorcycles and more than 32,000 attendees visited the Harley-Davidson Museum during the run of the Harley-Davidson Homecoming Festival to experience the Ives Brothers Wall of Death Stunt Show, the V-Twin Visionary Custom Motorcycle Showcase and many more activities.

 

Harley-Davidson Powertrain Operations/Menomonee Falls, Wis.

Guests enjoyed a self-guided tour of engine assembly and machining at Harley-Davidson Powertrain Operations in the Milwaukee suburb of Menomonee Falls. A wide selection of 2025 Harley-Davidson motorcycles were available for free test rides.

 

Harley-Davidson Headquarters/Juneau Avenue, Milwaukee

A guided Juneau Avenue Historical Tour through and around the current company Headquarters that once served as the original manufacturing factory was enjoyed by guests. Juneau Avenue was also the starting point for the Women’s Ride on Saturday morning in memory of “the first lady of motorcycling” Nancy Davidson and supporting the Cancer Research Institute™. Davidson Park, the outdoor community hub created by the Harley-Davidson Foundation, hosted a relaxing oasis for riders with free music, an antique motorcycle show, and lawn games.

 

Harley-Davidson Dealership Events

Six Milwaukee-area authorized Harley-Davidson dealerships hosted events and entertainment during the run of the Harley-Davidson Homecoming® Festival. Those dealerships include House of Harley-Davidson (Greenfield), Milwaukee Harley-Davidson (Milwaukee), Suburban Motors Harley-Davidson (Thiensville), Uke’s Harley-Davidson (Kenosha), West Bend Harley-Davidson (West Bend), and Wisconsin Harley-Davidson (Oconomowoc).

Visit www.hdhomecoming.com and follow @hdhomecoming on Instagram and Facebook to be the first to know about the 2026 lineup, tickets, and more festival updates.

Assets from throughout the weekend can be found at https://h-dmediakit.com

 

About Harley-Davidson

Harley-Davidson, Inc. is the parent company of Harley-Davidson Motor Company and Harley-Davidson Financial Services. Our vision: Building our legend and leading our industry through innovation, evolution and emotion. Our mission: More than building machines, we stand for the timeless pursuit of adventure. Freedom for the soul. Since 1903, Harley-Davidson has defined motorcycle culture with an expanding range of leading-edge, distinctive and customizable motorcycles in addition to riding experiences and exceptional motorcycle accessories, riding gear and apparel. Harley-Davidson Financial Services provides financing, insurance and other programs to help get Harley-Davidson riders on the road. Learn more at www.harley-davidson.com.

MotoGP™ to race in Japan until 2030

Fabio Quartararo riding his Yamaha Monster Energy YZR-M1. Photo courtesy Dorna.
Fabio Quartararo riding his Yamaha Monster Energy YZR-M1 at Motegi. Photo courtesy Dorna.

Five more visits to Motegi are confirmed for the most exciting sport on Earth.

MotoGP will return to the Mobility Resort Motegi until 2030. Japan is an established and important market for the sport, welcoming a fanbase renowned around the world for its commitment and passion for MotoGP.

With the full 2026 calendar soon to be revealed, fans can look forward to another five years of the Japanese Grand Prix as a highlight of the flyaways.

Tsuyoshi Saito, President, Honda Mobilityland Corporation: “We are very pleased to announce that we will be hosting MotoGP Japan at Mobility Resort Motegi in and after 2026. We would like to express our sincere gratitude towards Mr. Carmelo Ezpeleta, Dorna Sports and everyone who has been a great support in extending this hosting contract.

“We will continue to aim for further development of motorcycle sports and sustainable event management. As we make the most of the rich natural environment of Motegi, we will keep working to present Grand Prix that can be enjoyed by many more fans. In cooperation with local residents of Tochigi and Ibaraki prefectures and the town of Motegi and various government agencies, we hope to offer even more attractive Grand Prix events than before.”

Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of MotoGP rights holder Dorna Sports: “Japan is important for MotoGP. Motegi always puts on a fantastic show and is a point of reference on the calendar for its event organisation. Japanese MotoGP fans are incredibly knowledgeable and we’re very happy to confirm we’ll race with them until 2030.”

Video: King Kenny Roberts, Icon & 3-Time World Champion

Kenny Roberts in 2024.

Kenny Roberts, a legendary figure in motorcycle racing, is celebrated for his many remarkable achievements, including winning two AMA Grand National Championships and three consecutive FIM 500cc Grand Prix World Championships. His fierce competitiveness and innovative riding style revolutionized the sport, making him a pioneer for generations of racers.

(Editorial Note: Kenny Roberts’ memorabilia now lives in the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum and he served as Grand Marshall of the Barber Vintage Festival in 2024. He currently is running his own MotoAmerica Talent Cup team with young racer Kody Kopp.)

Watch the video here:

https://youtu.be/M7Xq-vxS9iw

R.I.P.: Businessman, Rider, Sponsor, Collector Daniel Schoenewald

Daniel Schoenewald with one of the many bikes from his extensive collection. Photo courtesy Kaming Ko.

Editorial Note: Over a period of decades, Daniel Schoenewald sponsored several racers in AMA competition, including his son Tristan, Jake Zemke, Rich Oliver and others. A celebration of his life was held last weekend and attracted hundreds of people from all over the world. His official obituary follows:

Daniel Schoenewald, who built a successful servo drive business that powers motion control systems for thousands of products worldwide and transformed a lifelong passion for riding motorcycles into an expansive collection and global emblem of his philanthropic spirit, died Thursday, April 24, 2025, from a heart attack. He was 71. 

Daniel Schoenewald with one of his favorite bikes, a Norton. He rode the bikes in his collection. Photo courtesy Kaming Ko.

A soft-spoken man, his endless stories of living in Tripoli, Libya, working oil rigs off the Gulf coast, Alaska and West Africa, group rides along Mulholland Highway to the Rock Store, and landing Steve McQueen’s 1942 Indian Sport Scout, sounded like legendary lore but were in fact a rich tapestry of Daniel living life to the fullest. This would often be followed with an expansive story that then turned into a shaggy dog intentionally silly with an even sillier, long drawn-out, impeccable punch line that led to chuckles, snorts, smiles and laughs.

Daniel Schoenewald was born on March 12, 1954, in Venezuela to Don and Norma Schoenewald. Daniel’s father was a geologist, which took the family around the world to Venezuela, Libya, Singapore and finally Dallas, Texas. Daniel went to boarding school in Rome, Italy and Switzerland. He graduated from Richardson (Texas) High School in 1972 and then North Texas State (Now University of North Texas) in 1982. Daniel’s travels helped shape his incredible intellect, wisdom, entrepreneurialism, selflessness, and values rooted in kindness and sharing with others.

In 1983, Daniel married Felicia Rakauskas, an Australian who was always by his side, helping support many charitable causes – donating time, money, and resources and community programs. An adoring husband, devoted father and grandfather, Felicia survives him, as do a son and daughter, Tylia Long (Dustin) and Tristan Schoenewald (Jessica), six grandchildren, Riella, Elliot, and Jaxton Long; Stevie and Avery Schoenewald with another Schoenewald on the way; sister Darnella DeLisse, brother DJ; and numerous in-laws, nieces, and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents, brother David and granddaughter Aurora Long.

In 1987, Daniel Schoenewald founded ADVANCED Motion Controls (AMC) with his partner Sándor Barta. The international business has built and shipped nearly 3 million servo axes worldwide from their Camarillo headquarters.

“I didn’t want to be the biggest I just wanted to be the best,” said Daniel in a quote on AMC’s website, where you will also find his humorous ways in a blog post by an AMC Marketing Engineer titled, “What is a Servo Drive? From Basics to Expert,” with “basics” explained to a 5-year-old. “You can stop whenever you feel comfortable,” the post quips.

A mentor to many, Daniel was a pillar of the Camarillo and Ventura County community he called home for more than three decades. Whether through the Rotary Club of Camarillo Sunrise, YMCA, Boys & Girls Club of Camarillo, A Taste of Camarillo, or kidSTREAM Children’s Museum, Daniel lent his expertise to many community projects and programs.

Every year, Daniel opened his private motorcycle collection up to the public, culminating in an annual ride with the Southern California Norton Owners Club. The 20,000 square foot area above AMC’s offices houses rows and rows of rare Ducatis, Triumphs, and other performance bikes all for riding on the streets or on a racetrack. Daniel was not afraid to put miles on even his most prized bikes. “I don’t want to have a show bike… These bikes get ridden,” Daniel told the Camarillo Acorn in a 2020 article featuring his collection.

Witnessing the array of helmets, riding gear, motorcycle parts, shining chrome and a one-of-a-kind collection, friend Dale Wagler described it as watching a kid in the candy store. Except Daniel owned the candy, the store, and shared it with everyone. When he wasn’t adding another ride to his collection, he was inviting others in his tight knit motorcycle community to take one out for a spin.

Riding a sea of successes and triumphs, Daniel approached life with generosity, humility, love, a smile and by being present; around Daniel, you were the most important person. He was so much to so many. Daniel’s passing is profound. His legacy of memorable encounters, lives touched, people inspired, and giving nature, will live on for generations to come. A Celebration of Life will be held in the summer.

Godspeed Daniel. Enjoy the ride.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Daniel’s memory to the Daniel Schoenewald Memorial Fund with the Camarillo Breakfast Rotary Foundation, Inc. https://tinyurl.com/ClickHeretoHonorDaniel.

Talent Cup: Ice Barn Racing Adds Engineering Students To Crew

Talent Cup rider and Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology student Solly Mervis has enlisted two Rose-Hulman students as crew members for his Ice Barn Racing Team. Photo courtesy of Ice Barn Racing.
Talent Cup rider and Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology student Solly Mervis has enlisted two Rose-Hulman students as crew members for his Ice Barn Racing Team. Photo courtesy of Ice Barn Racing.

In order to bolster the team’s technical prowess and help develop the next generation of motorsports technical talent, Ice Barn Racing welcomes aboard two engineering students from the Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology. Ayden Snedigar and Thornton Thomas have joined team rider Solly Mervis’s crew. Mervis himself, from Carmel, Indiana, is also an engineering student at Rose-Hulman.

Snedigar and Thomas will be with the team this weekend at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course as Mervis competes in round four of the MotoAmerica Parts Unlimited Talent Cup By Motul Championship, which will be part of AMA Vintage Motorcycle Days, also taking place this weekend at Mid-Ohio.

 

Ayden Snedigar (kneeling) and Thornton Thomas are applying their motorsports engineering prowess to the Ice Barn Racing Team. Photo courtesy of Ice Barn Racing
Ayden Snedigar (kneeling) and Thornton Thomas are applying their motorsports engineering prowess to the Ice Barn Racing Team. Photo courtesy of Ice Barn Racing

 

A junior at Rose-Hulman, Snedigar, who is from Monroe, Ohio, is pursuing a degree in mechanical engineering with a minor in computer science, He has served as a Front Desk and Machine Shop Supervisor at Rose-Hulman’s Branam & Kramer Innovation Center where he is gaining valuable experience in manufacturing and machine shop operations. Snedigar also completed a internship at Hydrotech Inc. where he worked on the Rose-Hulman Grand Prix Engineering Team to develop and refine MoTeC ECU strategies. 

Thomas, a junior from Arlington, Virginia, is also pursuing a degree in mechanical engineering, and he is no stranger to motorsports and data analytics. This past year, he served as the Suspension Sub-Team Lead and Lead Driver for Rose-Hulman’s Grand Prix Engineering Team. He successfully inherited and completed the team’s suspension build mid-year, redesigned custom components to resolve clearance issues, and led the design of an electric vehicle suspension system, utilizing OptimumKinematics, SolidWorks, and ANSYS during the process.

“Professional motorsports continues to see technology play an integral role in the success of race teams,” commented Ice Barn Racing Team owner Josh Mervis. “Ice Barn’s goal is to provide talented students with opportunities to experience the real-world pressures of professional racing. The experience Thornton and Ayden are getting as crew members on the Ice Barn Racing Team give them insights that go way beyond textbooks and classroom learning, while helping to prepare them for successful careers after graduation.”

 

Thomas (left) and Snedigar (right) work on fellow Rose-Hulman student Solly Mervis’s Krämer APX-350 MA Talent Cup machine. Photo courtesy of Ice Barn Racing
Thomas (left) and Snedigar (right) work on fellow Rose-Hulman student Solly Mervis’s Krämer APX-350 MA Talent Cup machine. Photo courtesy of Ice Barn Racing

 

Ice Barn Racing, located in Carmel, Indiana, was founded in 2023 to support Solly Mervis’s racing journey. The team and operation are dedicated to bolstering and propelling Mervis as an exceptional role model for young individuals.

Here’s this weekend’s schedule for the Parts Unlimited Talent Cup By Motul Championship at Mid-Ohio:

• Friday
11:35 am – Talent Cup Practice 1 – 25 minutes
4:30 pm – Talent Cup Qualifying 1 – 30 min

• Saturday
8:30 am – Talent Cup Qualifying 2 – 30 minutes
12 Noon – Talent Cup Race 1 – 10 Laps

• Sunday
9:40 am – Talent Cup Warm Up – 15 minutes
12 Noon – Talent Cup Race 2 – 10 laps

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