David Alonso led Moto3 World Championship Practice One (P1) Friday afternoon at Circuit of The Americas, in Austin, Texas. Riding his CFMOTO Valresa Aspar Team racebike, the Colombian racer covered the 3.4-mile (5.5 km) course in 2:15.173, which was quicker than Aron Canet’s Race Lap Record of 2:15.583.
Moto3 P1
Jerez test produces promise of superb 18th Rookies Cup season
Beautiful sunshine and ultra-rapid track action in the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup preseason test at Jerez has sparked the expectation of a sensational 18th season for the breading ground of World Champions.
26 of the world’s fastest teenagers, 15 of them new to the Moto3 spec KTMs, made full use of the 2 beautiful days on the same circuit that they will use for the first race weekend of the year at the end of the month.
Switching to Pirelli tyres gave even those who are in their 3rd year something to think about and perhaps helped compress the spread of lap times as the Cup looks forward to 14 races at 7 Grand Prix venues.
Gustl Auinger – Rider Coach
“We have had a really great test, we are always amazed at how quickly the new riders get up to speed but I think that is true this year more than ever. I don’t know why, it could have something to do with the age limit moving up but the guys are very serious, they are listening to what we say and doing a great job.”
“I am impressed with the professional attitude of our lads, it’s going to be a great, very competitive, close season.”
Dani Ribalta – Rider Coach
“It’s been a very good test, an intense two days, we are happy with the tyres, the guys found that they could go well on the used tyres and that’s important of course, important for safety.”
“We had good pace and hardly any crashes, we had a few at the end of the day today because the wind became quite strong as the guys were getting tired but it was not too much, most handled it very well.”
Álvaro Carpe
“I’ve got a super good feeling with my KTM,” enthused the 16-year-old Spaniard who was a very strong 2nd in the Cup last year, his debut season. “I’m very happy with the lap time and we are ready for the first race. I think the tyres are very good and I’m excited about the season.”
“It was a great test with a great result in the end. We did a lot of work because yesterday and this morning I was not happy with the bike at all. We improved a lot and even though the last sessions were very windy I still did my best times.”
“When we come back for the race there is still a bit of work to do and improvements we can make but this has been a great start.”
Rico Salmela
“I feel incredible, super happy with the test,” grinned the normally reserved 16-year-old Finn who starts his 3rd Cup season. “I have changed my riding style quite a bit I am more aggressive, less concerned with being smooth, more stop and go, late on brakes, early on the gas and I know it is faster.”
“We made some changes with the bike and it feels super good, three changes or so getting the front to work better. We are in a good position but I know we will still be working when we come back for the race.”
Milan Pawelec
The first Rookie from Poland shrugged off the responsibility of joining the Cup. “I love being here, it is a great experience from the start. I am really enjoying the KTM. Of course, it is different to the superbike that I rode last year but I am still finding that experience very useful.”
“I was learning the bike of course and we made quite a few changes and improved the front quite a lot.”
“I know that I’ve got to watch my weight this year, I need to be fast and now I don’t have a big superbike to pull me round,” added the 17-year-old with a laugh.
Carter Thompson
“I’m happy to be back on the Rookies Cup bike,” explained the 16-year-old Australian who begins his 2nd season. “It took a while to get up to speed again but I got quicker and quicker through the two days, I am happy now.”
“We changed some things on the bike and made a good step forward I think, it’s a track I really enjoy, a great variety of corners.”
“There is more we can do when we come back for the race but it’s a very good start.”
Guido Pini
“It’s been a very good test,” stated the 16-year-old Italian who is in his 2nd year as a Rookie. “I banged my arm today when I fell but it is nothing serious. I am enjoying the Pirellis, I think they are fast, we have to learn about how long the grip lasts and how to make the best use of them.”
“We didn’t change the bike very much I am happy with it and ready to start racing, I can’t wait.”
Entry List
4 Sullivan Mounsey (ENG)
5 Leo Rammerstorfer (AUT)
7 Rocco Sessler (GER)
11 Ruché Moodley (RSA)
13 Hakim Danish (MAL)
16 Joel Pons (ESP)
20 Jakkreephat Phuettisan (THA)
24 Guillem Planques (FRA)
27 Rico Salmela (FIN)
28 Màximo Quiles (ESP)
31 Giulio Pugliese (ITA)
44 Milan Pawelec (POL)
45 Kgopotso Mononyane (RSA)
47 Dodo Boggio (ITA)
48 Lennox Phommara (SUI)
50 Carter Thompson (AUS)
51 Brian Uriarte (ESP)
52 Evan Belford (ENG)
54 Veda Pratama (INA)
56 Kevin Farkas (HUN)
57 Leonardo Zanni (ITA)
70 Kristian Daniel (USA)
73 Valentin Perrone (ARG)
83 Alvaro Carpe (ESP)
94 Guido Pini (ITA)
95 Marco Morelli (ARG)
Calendar
April 27-28 Jerez – Spain
May 11-12 Le Mans – France
June 1-2 Mugello – Italy
June 29-30 Assen – Netherlands
August 17-18 Spielberg – Austria
Aug 31-Sep 1 Aragon – Spain
September 7-8 Misano – Italy
APRILIA RSV4 FACTORY AND TUONO V4 FACTORY SE-09 SBK
AT THE AUSTIN MOTOGP ROUND THE SPECIAL EDITION THAT CELEBRATES THE APRILIA RSV4’S FIRST LEGENDARY VICTORY MAKES ITS DÉBUT
THE ICONIC LIVERY OF MAX BIAGGI’S FIRST TRIUMPH IN BRNO IS BACK, THE WIN THAT MARKED THE BEGINNING OF A HISTORIC SPORTING STORY, AN ABSOLUTE DOMINATION COMPRISING SEVEN WORLD TITLES, 44 WINS, AND 102 PODIUMS
It was 26 July 2009 when Max Biaggi, on the Brno circuit, took the first unforgettable victory of the Aprilia RSV4 in the World Superbike Championship. No one could have known it at the time, but that was the first episode of a story that became legendary. It was the start of one of the most victorious stories ever for a single model in the most important factory derivative championship in the world, with an extraordinary collection of seven world titles (3 Rider and 4 Manufacturer), 44 wins and 102 podiums.
Today, Aprilia celebrates that historic day for the brand by bringing back the iconic livery symbolic of the RSV4’s spectacular sporting début on the crowning jewel of the V4 range: the superbike RSV4 Factory and the hypernaked Tuono V4 Factory. In this special version, RSV4 Factory and Tuono V4 Factory also come standard with carbon front brake air intakes and with a carbon front mudguard. The progressive numbering of the model appears on the fuel tank.
This is how the SE-09 SBK special numbered edition is born, unveiled for the first time in public during the weekend of the MotoGP Grand Prix of the Americas in Austin, Texas.
It was the Aprilia Racing factory riders, Aleix Espargaró and Maverick Viñales, currently protagonists in the top world motorcycling championship astride the RS-GP prototypes from Noale, who christened the RSV4 Factory and the Tuono V4 Factory in this new, exciting, and evocative version.
The Aprilia V4 Factory SE-09 SBK machines stand out for their livery dominated by black with the characteristic red and white trim on the top fairing, lug, fuel tank, and tail fairing, exactly like the RSV4 that astonished the world at its début on the WSBK stage. An unmistakable mix in its linear simplicity, which brings the brand from Noale and its legendary sporting history to the mind of any motorcycling enthusiast.
Pricing and Availability
US MSRP:
Aprilia RSV4 Factory SE-09 SBK: $26,499 USD
Aprilia Tuono V4 Factory SE-09 SBK: $19,999 USD
Canada MSRP:
Aprilia RSV4 Factory SE-09 SBK: $28,745 CAD
Aprilia Tuono V4 Factory SE-09 SBK: $22,845 CAD
US and Canada Arrival: June 2024
Kyle Wyman was fastest during MotoAmerica Mission King Of The Baggers Qualifying One (Q1) Friday at Circuit of The Americas, in Austin, Texas.
Riding his Harley-Davidson Factory Racing Road Glide, Wyman navigated the 20-turn, 3.4-mile (5.5 km) track in 2:15.831 to lead the field of 13 riders.
Australian Superbike Champion Troy Herfoss was second-best with a 2:15.978 on his S&S Indian Challenger, and Bobby Fong was third-fastest with a lap of 2:15.996 on his SDI/Roland Sands Design (RSD) Indian.
The final grid positions will be decided in Qualifying Two (Q2) at 4:15 p.m. Local Time, and the three-lap Mission King Of The Baggers Challenge dash-for-cash will run at 4:45 p.m. Friday.
24_2_COTAGP_KTB_Q1_res
Maverick Vinales topped MotoGP World Championship Free Practice One (FP1) Friday morning at Circuit of The Americas (COTA), in Austin, Texas.
Riding his factory Aprilia RS-GP, the Spaniard lapped the 20-turn, 3.4-mile (5.5 km) course in 2:03.294 to lead the field of 22 riders.
Jorge Martin was the best of the rest with a 2:03.443 on his Prima Pramac Racing Ducati Desmosedici GP24.
Rookie Sensation Pedro Acosta was third-fastest with a lap time of 2:03.606 on his Red Bull Tech3 GASGAS.
MotoGP FP1
Ai Ogura was the quickest rider during Moto2 World Championship Free Practice Friday morning at Circuit of The Americas (COTA), in Austin, Texas.
Riding his MT Helmets – MSI Boscoscuro, the Japanese racer turned a 2:09.218 around the 20-turn, 3.4-mile (5.5 km) course to lead the field of 29 competitors.
American Joe Roberts was second-best with a lap time of 2:09.279 on his OnlyFans American Racing Team Kalex.
Moto2 FP
Roadracing World MotoGP Editor and Isle of Man TT winner Mat Oxley and two-time World Championship-winning Crew Chief Peter Bom have started “The Oxley Bom MotoGP Podcast,” which will be focused on the FIM MotoGP World Championship.
This podcast is “Bonus Episode – Peter Does Austin.”
The original podcast can be found on BuzzSprout.com or listened to via other places you get podcasts.
From the Oxley Bom Podcast:
If it ain’t big, it ain’t American – and there’s nothing bigger than Texas, baby! So of course this is the track that has the most turns of them all. We asked Peter to describe each and every one of them, to give us a feel of what a lone rider might experience over there. This week, we’re keeping Austin weird…
As always, don’t forget to pull up a map of the circuit!
Want more? Visit our website or support us on Patreon. With big thanks as always to Brad Baloo from The Next Men and Gentleman’s Dub Club, who wrote our theme song. Check out The Nextmen for more great music!
David Alonso led Moto3 World Championship Free Practice (FP) Friday morning at Circuit of The Americas, in Austin, Texas.
Riding his CFMOTO Valresa Aspar machine, the Colombian lapped the 3.4-mile (5.5 km) track in 2:16.537 to lead the field of 26 riders.
Moto3 FP
YOSHIMURA SERT MOTUL FOCUS ON 24 HEURES MOTOS
April 12th 2024.
The 2024 FIM Endurance World Championship bursts into action next week when Le Mans hosts the EWC season opener – the 24 Heures Motos – at the famous Bugatti Circuit in France.
English/Frenchman Gregg Black and French rider Etienne Masson – who have both enjoyed 24 Heures Motos victories – are joined by a new British recruit Dan Linfoot, with Japanese pilot Cocoro Atsumi securing a fulltime place as the fourth, reserve rider.
The first of four 2024 EWC races, the 24 Heures Motos is the coveted title all teams want to win, and with just over a week until the action gets underway, Yoshimura SERT Motul is in a confident mood. As the team heads to its home round at Le Mans, in the Department of Sarthe, its riders reflect on the months leading up to the pre-season private and official tests and look ahead to the flag dropping on the start of the season on Saturday the 20th of April.
GREGG BLACK;
“The winter went quite quickly as I continued training and went to Spain for a month, riding different disciplines which, alongside physical training, has kept me fit. Then before I knew it, we were back together for private testing at Jerez and Valencia before returning to Le Mans for the 24 Heures Motos Pre Test.
“It was good to meet the new chief mechanic and ride with Dan, who I have known for a long time. The team worked hard through the winter developing new bike parts, and we were able to test in wet, drying, and dry conditions. Our brief was to concentrate on testing the new parts now, rather than during the race ….. We didn’t focus on speed, but we still managed to go fast and showed our pace across all conditions.
“The Suzuki GSX-R1000R has always been really good at braking and into corners, so we worked on traction and to get a better all round package. Of course, an important part of that package is the tire set up and we know the Bridgestone tires are the best out there – whether wet, dry, hot or cold, they always work well.
“I’m really looking forward to race week. The opening round at Le Mans is always special and, like all circuits, has many different aspects.
“The important thing will be to have a good strong week of testing, qualifying for points, consistent pace and to keep out of trouble. We were unlucky at the start last year, but our performance showed that we were on a podium, if not race-winning, pace.
“We know that the race will be long and difficult, especially during the night with cold temperatures, BUT we will be there!”
ETIENNE MASSON;
“It felt really good to be back on the bike after a long winter. Yoshimura worked hard during the off season, and they made many changes to help improve our race pace. It was interesting to ride the same bike, yet with a completely different feeling. We need to adapt our riding style to extract the best possible performance from the Suzuki.
“It’s always a pleasure to share the bike with Gregg, we trained together a couple of times in the winter. I didn’t know much about Dan, but we spent a lot of time together in Spain and talked a lot and got to know each other well.
“I know a little more about Cocoro as he was the fourth rider at the Bol d’Or with us last year. He has carried out a lot of development work through the winter with the team to improve the bike. I’m grateful to him for his hard work and involvement.
“Looking ahead to the 24 Heures Motos … I always check the weather as Le Mans is special and famous for its fast-changing conditions. You never know what awaits you.
“The start of the race is challenging as all teams are nervous and, to begin with, your riding style is not the best as you’re not relaxed. However, after one or two stints it is much better because we are then fully focussed on our target.
“I’m confident as I have a huge amount of trust in all the crew, and I have worked hard on my physical condition.
“We were all frustrated about last year. We were fast and strong but didn’t have the best of luck at all races. However, we are fully motivated for this year and I’m sure the number 1 will be back on the bike at the end of the year.
“Everybody in the team wants the victory. That’s why I love where I am… “
DAN LINFOOT;
“After last year’s Suzuka 8 Hour, where I rode as part of a two-man team on a Suzuki, I contacted Yohei [Kato] to ask if I could be considered if a team seat became available – and here I am!
“Participating in the team tests at Jerez and Valencia would have been a big shock without that Suzuka experience. As it turned out, the bike, with the Bridgestone tires, felt familiar straightaway. It also helped that Gregg, Etienne and I are of a similar height and build.
“I didn’t want to push too soon in the Pre Le Mans test, preferring instead to ride the bike and get the feeling for it first. The testing wasn’t about lap times. The priority was to confirm that the development parts would work at race pace. Our natural laps put us where we needed to be.
“I first met Gregg back in 2004 so already knew him well, and there is a great vibe in the team. We’ve been spending a lot of time together and having a lot of fun. I like that we are team-mates, working together, rather than competitors.
“There are so many aspects of EWC that excite me. I love the regularity of the stints, the amount of time the bike can be ridden, the fast pit stops, riding in the dark, sharing settings, techniques, giving feedback and enjoying family morale. As a new member I can immediately tell that Yoshimura SERT Motul is a well-oiled machine. The result of many years’ hard work means everyone has an important role to play, and they all work together seamlessly.
“I’m really looking forward to the 24 Heures Motos. As the home round, it’s special for the team, and obviously our aim is to win.
“It will likely get cold, and we’ll experience all the challenges of endurance racing and its many variables. I must admit that I’m not relishing the 2am to 6am stint …. However, I’m ready rather than nervous.
“I’m excited, privileged, and motivated to show what I can do with Gregg and Etienne. Bring it on! “
COCORO ATSUMI;
“Firstly, I’d like to say that I am honoured to be part of the Yoshimura SERT Motul project. I’m prepared to always do my best in case something happens to one of the three race riders, and I need to race. I want to be able to ride at a good pace, even if it is just a chance to ride until qualifying. I think having a competent reserve rider will make the team feel more secure and allow us to focus on the bigger picture.
“The team’s hard work in the off-season has paid off and we feel that this year’s bike is faster and more comfortable to ride than last year. The bike is more stable in almost all areas, from corner entry to exit. In endurance racing, multiple riders ride a lot in different conditions, so the increased stability is a very positive thing. I’ve rarely tested new parts, so it was something new for me.
“The bike I rode at the All Japan Championship and the one I rode at the Pre Le Mans have almost the same specifications, so I was able to ride normally right away. However, there were some parts that felt different from the way I rode in Japan, so I told the team about them.
“The team members all work well together, and we have a good relationship. They are professionals who know how to win in endurance racing. I enjoy working with them and learning a lot from them. Now I want to learn English and French so we can communicate better!
“I’m looking forward to the 24 Heures Motos because the bike has improved over the off-season and my three team-mates are very fast. At the Pre Le Mans we showed our performance in all conditions. Personally, I’m aiming to beat my best time of 1:38.941.
“I like 24-hour racing as if you keep fighting and don’t give up, no matter what happens, you have a chance to win right up until the chequered flag falls.
“Yoshimura SERT Motul never gives up. The team is very experienced and very motivated. If we do what we have to do, I think we can win at Le Mans.“
Official activities start on Wednesday the 17th of April when, for the first time ever, all the motorcycles in the running for the 24H Motos title will parade together through the streets of Le Mans. The convoy will set off at 15:00 from the Bugatti circuit.
This is followed by free practice and first qualifying on Thursday the 18th, with second qualifying to determine grid positions, and the chance to collect some important pre-race points, on Friday the 19th. The hugely popular Pit and Paddock Tour is the chance for eager fans to get up close to the riders, machines and teams. It takes place from 19:00 on the Friday evening.
The starting ceremony for the 2024 24 Heures Motos is from 14:00 on Saturday the 20th of April, with the race itself starting promptly at 15:00!
Further team information is available at;
yoshimura-jp.com/race
facebook.com/yoshimura.sert.motul
instagram.com/yoshimura_sert_motul_official
twitter.com/Yoshimura_SERT
David Alonso led Moto3 World Championship Practice One (P1) Friday afternoon at Circuit of The Americas, in Austin, Texas. Riding his CFMOTO Valresa Aspar Team racebike, the Colombian racer covered the 3.4-mile (5.5 km) course in 2:15.173, which was quicker than Aron Canet’s Race Lap Record of 2:15.583.
Moto3 P1
Jerez test produces promise of superb 18th Rookies Cup season
Beautiful sunshine and ultra-rapid track action in the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup preseason test at Jerez has sparked the expectation of a sensational 18th season for the breading ground of World Champions.
26 of the world’s fastest teenagers, 15 of them new to the Moto3 spec KTMs, made full use of the 2 beautiful days on the same circuit that they will use for the first race weekend of the year at the end of the month.
Switching to Pirelli tyres gave even those who are in their 3rd year something to think about and perhaps helped compress the spread of lap times as the Cup looks forward to 14 races at 7 Grand Prix venues.
Gustl Auinger – Rider Coach
“We have had a really great test, we are always amazed at how quickly the new riders get up to speed but I think that is true this year more than ever. I don’t know why, it could have something to do with the age limit moving up but the guys are very serious, they are listening to what we say and doing a great job.”
“I am impressed with the professional attitude of our lads, it’s going to be a great, very competitive, close season.”
Dani Ribalta – Rider Coach
“It’s been a very good test, an intense two days, we are happy with the tyres, the guys found that they could go well on the used tyres and that’s important of course, important for safety.”
“We had good pace and hardly any crashes, we had a few at the end of the day today because the wind became quite strong as the guys were getting tired but it was not too much, most handled it very well.”
Álvaro Carpe
“I’ve got a super good feeling with my KTM,” enthused the 16-year-old Spaniard who was a very strong 2nd in the Cup last year, his debut season. “I’m very happy with the lap time and we are ready for the first race. I think the tyres are very good and I’m excited about the season.”
“It was a great test with a great result in the end. We did a lot of work because yesterday and this morning I was not happy with the bike at all. We improved a lot and even though the last sessions were very windy I still did my best times.”
“When we come back for the race there is still a bit of work to do and improvements we can make but this has been a great start.”
Rico Salmela
“I feel incredible, super happy with the test,” grinned the normally reserved 16-year-old Finn who starts his 3rd Cup season. “I have changed my riding style quite a bit I am more aggressive, less concerned with being smooth, more stop and go, late on brakes, early on the gas and I know it is faster.”
“We made some changes with the bike and it feels super good, three changes or so getting the front to work better. We are in a good position but I know we will still be working when we come back for the race.”
Milan Pawelec
The first Rookie from Poland shrugged off the responsibility of joining the Cup. “I love being here, it is a great experience from the start. I am really enjoying the KTM. Of course, it is different to the superbike that I rode last year but I am still finding that experience very useful.”
“I was learning the bike of course and we made quite a few changes and improved the front quite a lot.”
“I know that I’ve got to watch my weight this year, I need to be fast and now I don’t have a big superbike to pull me round,” added the 17-year-old with a laugh.
Carter Thompson
“I’m happy to be back on the Rookies Cup bike,” explained the 16-year-old Australian who begins his 2nd season. “It took a while to get up to speed again but I got quicker and quicker through the two days, I am happy now.”
“We changed some things on the bike and made a good step forward I think, it’s a track I really enjoy, a great variety of corners.”
“There is more we can do when we come back for the race but it’s a very good start.”
Guido Pini
“It’s been a very good test,” stated the 16-year-old Italian who is in his 2nd year as a Rookie. “I banged my arm today when I fell but it is nothing serious. I am enjoying the Pirellis, I think they are fast, we have to learn about how long the grip lasts and how to make the best use of them.”
“We didn’t change the bike very much I am happy with it and ready to start racing, I can’t wait.”
Entry List
4 Sullivan Mounsey (ENG)
5 Leo Rammerstorfer (AUT)
7 Rocco Sessler (GER)
11 Ruché Moodley (RSA)
13 Hakim Danish (MAL)
16 Joel Pons (ESP)
20 Jakkreephat Phuettisan (THA)
24 Guillem Planques (FRA)
27 Rico Salmela (FIN)
28 Màximo Quiles (ESP)
31 Giulio Pugliese (ITA)
44 Milan Pawelec (POL)
45 Kgopotso Mononyane (RSA)
47 Dodo Boggio (ITA)
48 Lennox Phommara (SUI)
50 Carter Thompson (AUS)
51 Brian Uriarte (ESP)
52 Evan Belford (ENG)
54 Veda Pratama (INA)
56 Kevin Farkas (HUN)
57 Leonardo Zanni (ITA)
70 Kristian Daniel (USA)
73 Valentin Perrone (ARG)
83 Alvaro Carpe (ESP)
94 Guido Pini (ITA)
95 Marco Morelli (ARG)
Calendar
April 27-28 Jerez – Spain
May 11-12 Le Mans – France
June 1-2 Mugello – Italy
June 29-30 Assen – Netherlands
August 17-18 Spielberg – Austria
Aug 31-Sep 1 Aragon – Spain
September 7-8 Misano – Italy
APRILIA RSV4 FACTORY AND TUONO V4 FACTORY SE-09 SBK
AT THE AUSTIN MOTOGP ROUND THE SPECIAL EDITION THAT CELEBRATES THE APRILIA RSV4’S FIRST LEGENDARY VICTORY MAKES ITS DÉBUT
THE ICONIC LIVERY OF MAX BIAGGI’S FIRST TRIUMPH IN BRNO IS BACK, THE WIN THAT MARKED THE BEGINNING OF A HISTORIC SPORTING STORY, AN ABSOLUTE DOMINATION COMPRISING SEVEN WORLD TITLES, 44 WINS, AND 102 PODIUMS
It was 26 July 2009 when Max Biaggi, on the Brno circuit, took the first unforgettable victory of the Aprilia RSV4 in the World Superbike Championship. No one could have known it at the time, but that was the first episode of a story that became legendary. It was the start of one of the most victorious stories ever for a single model in the most important factory derivative championship in the world, with an extraordinary collection of seven world titles (3 Rider and 4 Manufacturer), 44 wins and 102 podiums.
Today, Aprilia celebrates that historic day for the brand by bringing back the iconic livery symbolic of the RSV4’s spectacular sporting début on the crowning jewel of the V4 range: the superbike RSV4 Factory and the hypernaked Tuono V4 Factory. In this special version, RSV4 Factory and Tuono V4 Factory also come standard with carbon front brake air intakes and with a carbon front mudguard. The progressive numbering of the model appears on the fuel tank.
This is how the SE-09 SBK special numbered edition is born, unveiled for the first time in public during the weekend of the MotoGP Grand Prix of the Americas in Austin, Texas.
It was the Aprilia Racing factory riders, Aleix Espargaró and Maverick Viñales, currently protagonists in the top world motorcycling championship astride the RS-GP prototypes from Noale, who christened the RSV4 Factory and the Tuono V4 Factory in this new, exciting, and evocative version.
The Aprilia V4 Factory SE-09 SBK machines stand out for their livery dominated by black with the characteristic red and white trim on the top fairing, lug, fuel tank, and tail fairing, exactly like the RSV4 that astonished the world at its début on the WSBK stage. An unmistakable mix in its linear simplicity, which brings the brand from Noale and its legendary sporting history to the mind of any motorcycling enthusiast.
Pricing and Availability
US MSRP:
Aprilia RSV4 Factory SE-09 SBK: $26,499 USD
Aprilia Tuono V4 Factory SE-09 SBK: $19,999 USD
Canada MSRP:
Aprilia RSV4 Factory SE-09 SBK: $28,745 CAD
Aprilia Tuono V4 Factory SE-09 SBK: $22,845 CAD
US and Canada Arrival: June 2024
Kyle Wyman was fastest during MotoAmerica Mission King Of The Baggers Qualifying One (Q1) Friday at Circuit of The Americas, in Austin, Texas.
Riding his Harley-Davidson Factory Racing Road Glide, Wyman navigated the 20-turn, 3.4-mile (5.5 km) track in 2:15.831 to lead the field of 13 riders.
Australian Superbike Champion Troy Herfoss was second-best with a 2:15.978 on his S&S Indian Challenger, and Bobby Fong was third-fastest with a lap of 2:15.996 on his SDI/Roland Sands Design (RSD) Indian.
The final grid positions will be decided in Qualifying Two (Q2) at 4:15 p.m. Local Time, and the three-lap Mission King Of The Baggers Challenge dash-for-cash will run at 4:45 p.m. Friday.
24_2_COTAGP_KTB_Q1_res
Maverick Vinales topped MotoGP World Championship Free Practice One (FP1) Friday morning at Circuit of The Americas (COTA), in Austin, Texas.
Riding his factory Aprilia RS-GP, the Spaniard lapped the 20-turn, 3.4-mile (5.5 km) course in 2:03.294 to lead the field of 22 riders.
Jorge Martin was the best of the rest with a 2:03.443 on his Prima Pramac Racing Ducati Desmosedici GP24.
Rookie Sensation Pedro Acosta was third-fastest with a lap time of 2:03.606 on his Red Bull Tech3 GASGAS.
MotoGP FP1
Ai Ogura was the quickest rider during Moto2 World Championship Free Practice Friday morning at Circuit of The Americas (COTA), in Austin, Texas.
Riding his MT Helmets – MSI Boscoscuro, the Japanese racer turned a 2:09.218 around the 20-turn, 3.4-mile (5.5 km) course to lead the field of 29 competitors.
American Joe Roberts was second-best with a lap time of 2:09.279 on his OnlyFans American Racing Team Kalex.
Moto2 FP
Roadracing World MotoGP Editor and Isle of Man TT winner Mat Oxley and two-time World Championship-winning Crew Chief Peter Bom have started “The Oxley Bom MotoGP Podcast,” which will be focused on the FIM MotoGP World Championship.
This podcast is “Bonus Episode – Peter Does Austin.”
The original podcast can be found on BuzzSprout.com or listened to via other places you get podcasts.
From the Oxley Bom Podcast:
If it ain’t big, it ain’t American – and there’s nothing bigger than Texas, baby! So of course this is the track that has the most turns of them all. We asked Peter to describe each and every one of them, to give us a feel of what a lone rider might experience over there. This week, we’re keeping Austin weird…
As always, don’t forget to pull up a map of the circuit!
Want more? Visit our website or support us on Patreon. With big thanks as always to Brad Baloo from The Next Men and Gentleman’s Dub Club, who wrote our theme song. Check out The Nextmen for more great music!
David Alonso led Moto3 World Championship Free Practice (FP) Friday morning at Circuit of The Americas, in Austin, Texas.
Riding his CFMOTO Valresa Aspar machine, the Colombian lapped the 3.4-mile (5.5 km) track in 2:16.537 to lead the field of 26 riders.
Moto3 FP
YOSHIMURA SERT MOTUL FOCUS ON 24 HEURES MOTOS
April 12th 2024.
The 2024 FIM Endurance World Championship bursts into action next week when Le Mans hosts the EWC season opener – the 24 Heures Motos – at the famous Bugatti Circuit in France.
English/Frenchman Gregg Black and French rider Etienne Masson – who have both enjoyed 24 Heures Motos victories – are joined by a new British recruit Dan Linfoot, with Japanese pilot Cocoro Atsumi securing a fulltime place as the fourth, reserve rider.
The first of four 2024 EWC races, the 24 Heures Motos is the coveted title all teams want to win, and with just over a week until the action gets underway, Yoshimura SERT Motul is in a confident mood. As the team heads to its home round at Le Mans, in the Department of Sarthe, its riders reflect on the months leading up to the pre-season private and official tests and look ahead to the flag dropping on the start of the season on Saturday the 20th of April.
GREGG BLACK;
“The winter went quite quickly as I continued training and went to Spain for a month, riding different disciplines which, alongside physical training, has kept me fit. Then before I knew it, we were back together for private testing at Jerez and Valencia before returning to Le Mans for the 24 Heures Motos Pre Test.
“It was good to meet the new chief mechanic and ride with Dan, who I have known for a long time. The team worked hard through the winter developing new bike parts, and we were able to test in wet, drying, and dry conditions. Our brief was to concentrate on testing the new parts now, rather than during the race ….. We didn’t focus on speed, but we still managed to go fast and showed our pace across all conditions.
“The Suzuki GSX-R1000R has always been really good at braking and into corners, so we worked on traction and to get a better all round package. Of course, an important part of that package is the tire set up and we know the Bridgestone tires are the best out there – whether wet, dry, hot or cold, they always work well.
“I’m really looking forward to race week. The opening round at Le Mans is always special and, like all circuits, has many different aspects.
“The important thing will be to have a good strong week of testing, qualifying for points, consistent pace and to keep out of trouble. We were unlucky at the start last year, but our performance showed that we were on a podium, if not race-winning, pace.
“We know that the race will be long and difficult, especially during the night with cold temperatures, BUT we will be there!”
ETIENNE MASSON;
“It felt really good to be back on the bike after a long winter. Yoshimura worked hard during the off season, and they made many changes to help improve our race pace. It was interesting to ride the same bike, yet with a completely different feeling. We need to adapt our riding style to extract the best possible performance from the Suzuki.
“It’s always a pleasure to share the bike with Gregg, we trained together a couple of times in the winter. I didn’t know much about Dan, but we spent a lot of time together in Spain and talked a lot and got to know each other well.
“I know a little more about Cocoro as he was the fourth rider at the Bol d’Or with us last year. He has carried out a lot of development work through the winter with the team to improve the bike. I’m grateful to him for his hard work and involvement.
“Looking ahead to the 24 Heures Motos … I always check the weather as Le Mans is special and famous for its fast-changing conditions. You never know what awaits you.
“The start of the race is challenging as all teams are nervous and, to begin with, your riding style is not the best as you’re not relaxed. However, after one or two stints it is much better because we are then fully focussed on our target.
“I’m confident as I have a huge amount of trust in all the crew, and I have worked hard on my physical condition.
“We were all frustrated about last year. We were fast and strong but didn’t have the best of luck at all races. However, we are fully motivated for this year and I’m sure the number 1 will be back on the bike at the end of the year.
“Everybody in the team wants the victory. That’s why I love where I am… “
DAN LINFOOT;
“After last year’s Suzuka 8 Hour, where I rode as part of a two-man team on a Suzuki, I contacted Yohei [Kato] to ask if I could be considered if a team seat became available – and here I am!
“Participating in the team tests at Jerez and Valencia would have been a big shock without that Suzuka experience. As it turned out, the bike, with the Bridgestone tires, felt familiar straightaway. It also helped that Gregg, Etienne and I are of a similar height and build.
“I didn’t want to push too soon in the Pre Le Mans test, preferring instead to ride the bike and get the feeling for it first. The testing wasn’t about lap times. The priority was to confirm that the development parts would work at race pace. Our natural laps put us where we needed to be.
“I first met Gregg back in 2004 so already knew him well, and there is a great vibe in the team. We’ve been spending a lot of time together and having a lot of fun. I like that we are team-mates, working together, rather than competitors.
“There are so many aspects of EWC that excite me. I love the regularity of the stints, the amount of time the bike can be ridden, the fast pit stops, riding in the dark, sharing settings, techniques, giving feedback and enjoying family morale. As a new member I can immediately tell that Yoshimura SERT Motul is a well-oiled machine. The result of many years’ hard work means everyone has an important role to play, and they all work together seamlessly.
“I’m really looking forward to the 24 Heures Motos. As the home round, it’s special for the team, and obviously our aim is to win.
“It will likely get cold, and we’ll experience all the challenges of endurance racing and its many variables. I must admit that I’m not relishing the 2am to 6am stint …. However, I’m ready rather than nervous.
“I’m excited, privileged, and motivated to show what I can do with Gregg and Etienne. Bring it on! “
COCORO ATSUMI;
“Firstly, I’d like to say that I am honoured to be part of the Yoshimura SERT Motul project. I’m prepared to always do my best in case something happens to one of the three race riders, and I need to race. I want to be able to ride at a good pace, even if it is just a chance to ride until qualifying. I think having a competent reserve rider will make the team feel more secure and allow us to focus on the bigger picture.
“The team’s hard work in the off-season has paid off and we feel that this year’s bike is faster and more comfortable to ride than last year. The bike is more stable in almost all areas, from corner entry to exit. In endurance racing, multiple riders ride a lot in different conditions, so the increased stability is a very positive thing. I’ve rarely tested new parts, so it was something new for me.
“The bike I rode at the All Japan Championship and the one I rode at the Pre Le Mans have almost the same specifications, so I was able to ride normally right away. However, there were some parts that felt different from the way I rode in Japan, so I told the team about them.
“The team members all work well together, and we have a good relationship. They are professionals who know how to win in endurance racing. I enjoy working with them and learning a lot from them. Now I want to learn English and French so we can communicate better!
“I’m looking forward to the 24 Heures Motos because the bike has improved over the off-season and my three team-mates are very fast. At the Pre Le Mans we showed our performance in all conditions. Personally, I’m aiming to beat my best time of 1:38.941.
“I like 24-hour racing as if you keep fighting and don’t give up, no matter what happens, you have a chance to win right up until the chequered flag falls.
“Yoshimura SERT Motul never gives up. The team is very experienced and very motivated. If we do what we have to do, I think we can win at Le Mans.“
Official activities start on Wednesday the 17th of April when, for the first time ever, all the motorcycles in the running for the 24H Motos title will parade together through the streets of Le Mans. The convoy will set off at 15:00 from the Bugatti circuit.
This is followed by free practice and first qualifying on Thursday the 18th, with second qualifying to determine grid positions, and the chance to collect some important pre-race points, on Friday the 19th. The hugely popular Pit and Paddock Tour is the chance for eager fans to get up close to the riders, machines and teams. It takes place from 19:00 on the Friday evening.
The starting ceremony for the 2024 24 Heures Motos is from 14:00 on Saturday the 20th of April, with the race itself starting promptly at 15:00!
Further team information is available at;
yoshimura-jp.com/race
facebook.com/yoshimura.sert.motul
instagram.com/yoshimura_sert_motul_official
twitter.com/Yoshimura_SERT
