British Superbike: Glenn Irwin Re-Signs To Ride Paul Bird Motorsport Ducati

David Swarts

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March 6, 2024

British Superbike: Glenn Irwin Re-Signs To Ride Paul Bird Motorsport Ducati

Irwin To Front PBM Title Defence In Bennetts BSB

Nine times and defending Bennetts British Superbike champions PBM will return to the grid in 2024 with Glenn Irwin looking to go one better after finishing runner-up for the past two seasons.

The 33-year-old from Carrickfergus finished an agonising half point behind teammate Tommy Bridewell last season and returns with the PBM team which is now fronted by Jordan and Frank Bird as they continue their father Paul’s legacy following his untimely passing last year.

Jordan and her twin brother have spent the winter finalising plans for the 32-race Bennetts BSB season ahead with Irwin as the sole rider aboard the Ducati V4R, on which he will contest the International North West 200 too.

Last season, the PBM team won 18 races and finished on the podium a further 18 times also, of which Irwin won ten races and podiumed eight times additionally, so the Ulsterman goes in search of his maiden crown which would be an unprecedented tenth title for Britian’s most successful team.

Over a 23-year involvement in the Bennetts British Superbike Championship, as well as their nine titles with riders including Steve Hislop, Shane Byrne, Scott Redding, Josh Brookes, and Tommy Bridewell, PBM have won 138 races, secured an additional 175 podium finishes and claimed 98 pole positions.

PBM has a new title sponsor for the 2024 Bennetts BSB season which will be revealed shortly prior to the opening test weekend at Donington Park on April 6/7. The season gets underway at Navarra in Spain with two races over the weekend of April 20/21.

Glenn Irwin (left) and Jordan Bird (right). Photo courtesy Paul Bird Motorsport.

Glenn Irwin: “For the people reading this it must be a relief as I have been inundated with messages from fans asking me about what I am doing this season, which has been really nice, and I am so grateful for their support. It might sound like a cliché, but there was never really anywhere else I wanted to be, despite interest from elsewhere when there was some uncertainty, my heart and attention was always to remain with PBM. To touch on last year, we had an amazing season working together, and after four years apart we came back together, and I think in that time I have grown up and matured. The team went through a lot last year, but it was also an amazing year, and the championship was one of the most exciting in history and I am extremely grateful to have been a part of that. It didn’t work out in my favour as such, but it doesn’t take any of the sweetness away from it because we had great success. I believe and fully expect myself to be fighting for the championship from the off, but we also have to understand some changes and we will have to adapt. It certainly isn’t just a case of roll the dice like last year, we have a lot of work to do, and I think it is important that we are not complacent. We do our work, and then I think we can certainly be in for a lot of race wins and success ahead. I started my Superbike career with PBM and as much as it is a new era with Jordan and Frank as my bosses now, I will never separate the first part of the PBM chapter to this one. I had my first pole position, first podium and first win with the team, but there are a few things I want to achieve. First off, it is to win the British Superbike Championship and secondly to retain it, they are the two things I want to achieve with PBM.”

Team Owners Jordan and Frank Bird Junior: “We are delighted to confirm that the PBM team will be back on the grid this season. It has obviously been a real emotional rollercoaster for us, and we are so proud of what the whole team achieved last year, ending the season on a high with a one-two in the standings. The PBM team remain fully committed to the championship and after a lot of uncertainty over the last few months we are delighted that Glenn returns as we begin the next chapter for PBM. He has a long-standing history with the team – from making his Superbike debut, to a first podium and his first race win in the championship. We hope that together we can add a Championship title to that this season! We want to take this opportunity to thank our partners and fans for their continued support and we are now looking forward to the future of PBM and keeping Dad’s memory alive.”

Video: Garrett Gerloff “My Worst Weekend EVER (Almost) – Australia”

David Swarts

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March 5, 2024

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Video: Garrett Gerloff “My Worst Weekend EVER (Almost) – Australia”

PHILLIP ISLAND GRAND PRIX CIRCUIT

WE’RE BACK BABY! New season, new haircut, same dream team! The weekend was a rollercoaster, I hope y’all enjoy the ride! It was a bit too stressful for me though, I want the next round to be a bit easier on us 😆 We’re trying to get the videos out to y’all as soon as possible after the race weekends so y’all give some love to Brad for getting it done! And a “Like” and comment always help us out with that algorithm to reach more of y’all! Much love amigos 🤙🏽

MotoCalifornia Luxury Motorcycle Tours: 👉🏽 https://bit.ly/MotoCalifornia

Watch all the World SuperBike action LIVE here! 👉🏽 https://bit.ly/WorldSBK31

My Official Merch! 10% off with discount code: GG31 👉🏽 https://bit.ly/DefyAllOddsGG31Collab

Official Garrett Gerloff Website: 👉🏽 https://www.garrettgerloff.com/

Race Helmet: https://bit.ly/HJCHelmetsGG31

Race Leathers: https://bit.ly/AlpinestarsLeathersGG31

Race Gloves: https://bit.ly/AlpinestarsGlovesGG31

Race Boots: https://bit.ly/AlpinestarsBootsGG31

Shot & edited by Brad Schwartzrock (@bradschwartzrock)

#GG31 #WorldSBK #bmwm1000rr

00:00 Aussie Intro

00:24 Pit Stop Anxiety

02:26 Friday Panic Attack

03:11 Saturday Revival

04:49 No Need to Panic

05:45 Race 1

07:07 SUNDAY

08:42 Race 2

11:27 Outro

12:04 MotoCalifornia Ad

13:01 Bloopers, Yikes

MotoAmerica: Kyle Wyman Racing Returns With Super Hooligan Team

David Swarts

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March 5, 2024

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MotoAmerica: Kyle Wyman Racing Returns With Super Hooligan Team

KWR Returns with a Harley-Davidson® Pan America™ Racing Team for the 2024 Mission Super Hooligan National Championship, Presented by Gator Harley

(Daytona Beach, Fla.) – Kyle Wyman Racing (KWR) announces its return to MotoAmerica to field a two-rider team for the 2024 Mission Super Hooligan National Championship, featuring the iconic Harley-Davidson® Pan America™ motorcycle. Cody Wyman (#34) and Hayden Schultz (#49) will make their Super Hooligan debut for KWR this coming weekend at Daytona International Speedway with weekend-title sponsor Gator Harley-Davidson of Leesburg, Fla..

Super Hooligan racing has electrified the MotoAmerica championship, featuring heavily modified sport, cruiser, and adventure touring bikes that reach speeds of 170 MPH. The Harley-Davidson Pan America sheds its ADV clothing to compete in this class and this new KWR effort will add another H-D supported team the MotoAmerica paddock in 2024.

“Bagger and Hooligan racing have taken MotoAmerica by storm in recent years, and my goal in this program is to expand on that and strengthen the Harley-Davidson Racing footprint within our series,” said Kyle Wyman, who competes full-time for the Harley-Davidson Factory Race Team in Mission King Of The Baggers. “I want to extend a special acknowledgment to our tech lead, Gene Burcham, for his exceptional hard work building these bikes, and to Harley-Davidson for supporting another new team in the paddock. This is a fun project to be a small part of, and I look forward to watching it grow and improve throughout the year.”

Wyman and Schultz each bring unique experience to the team. Cody, making his Super Hooligan debut, currently serves as a test rider for the Harley-Davidson Factory Race Team. With numerous podium finishes and a championship in other MotoAmerica classes, Cody’s expertise promises a successful season.

Cody Wyman (34). Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy KWR.

“I’m really excited to compete on a Harley-Davidson in MotoAmerica,” Cody Wyman said. “I can’t thank the team and sponsors enough for all the hard work and preparation, so let’s kick things off at Daytona this weekend!”

Hayden Schultz, also making his Super Hooligan debut, will race a Harley-Davidson for the first time since the Vance & Hines/Harley-Davidson XR1200 series concluded in 2014. His enthusiasm and expertise in handling Harley-Davidson bikes make him a valuable addition to the KWR lineup.

Hayden Schultz (49). Photo by Brian J. Nelson, courtesy KWR.

“It’s always really cool starting the season on the high banks,” Schultz said. “I’m really looking forward to getting to Daytona, and after getting some laps on the Harley-Davidson Pan America, I know we have a strong base and a good platform. I’m looking forward to seeing what kind of results we can put in to open the season and building on it throughout the year.”

KWR would like to extend its thanks to sponsors Gator Harley, KATO Fastening, Blud Lubricants, SC Project, Motovation Accessories, Accossato, Rizoma, Dymag, Renthal, Roller Die & Forming, and Alpinestars.

The team is gearing up for their debut at the first round of the 2024 Mission Super Hooligan National Championship, starting this coming weekend at Daytona International Speedway from March 7-9.

KWR is proud to announce Gator Harley as the title sponsor for the Daytona round.

As the team embarks on this renewed journey, KWR invites fans, sponsors, and enthusiasts alike to join them. Stay tuned for an action-packed season that promises to be an exciting chapter in the annals of SuperHooligan racing.

Be sure to follow along at @kwr_harley and www.kylewyman.com for news and updates.

Suzuki Manufacturing Of America Becomes Subsidiary Of Suzuki Motor USA

David Swarts

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March 5, 2024

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Suzuki Manufacturing Of America Becomes Subsidiary Of Suzuki Motor USA

SUZUKI MANUFACTURING OF AMERICA CORPORATION BECOMES SUBSIDIARY OF
SUZUKI MOTOR USA, LLC

Brea, CA (March 5, 2024) – Suzuki Motor USA, LLC (SMO) announces that Suzuki Manufacturing of America Corporation, (SMAC) has become a 100% subsidiary of SMO effective, March 1, 2024.

SMAC, founded in 2001 and based in Rome, Georgia, is Suzuki’s All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) manufacturing facility. For over two decades, all Suzuki adult KingQuad ATVs have been manufactured at this location. Suzuki ATVs are sold in the United States, Canada, and nearly 25 countries worldwide.

SMAC stock is currently owned by Suzuki Motor Corporation (SMC) (20%) and Suzuki Motor of America, Inc. (SMAI) (80%). SMAI, owned by SMC, is the holding company of Suzuki companies operating in the United States.

SMO officials cited several reasons for the organizational change. First and foremost, by consolidating its ATV sales and production arms, the company looks to strengthen its overall ATV business in the United States and globally.

Suzuki is credited with offering the first four-wheel ATV in 1982 with the introduction of the Suzuki LT125. That product created an all-new category of off-road recreational and utility vehicles. Since then, Suzuki has offered a full line of ATV vehicles. Suzuki’s current flagship ATV is the KingQuad 750AXi.

Masami Haga, President of SMO, commented on the new structure. “One of the primary goals of this change is to expand our commitment to the growth of our entire powersports business. This evolution will also enable us to build on our relationships with Suzuki dealers and SMAC vendor partners.” Haga noted that strengthening the supply chain and purchasing policies for locally sourced parts are objectives of the move as well.

By becoming a group company with integrated production and sales functions, SMO and SMAC leaders expect to improve their responsiveness to the ATV market by more accurately linking production to sales demand. Specifically, SMO looks to improve inventory management for both the company and its dealer body. This will help protect sales margins, flooring costs, and ultimately the profitability of both groups. ATV industry sales are generally steady throughout the calendar year with demand typically increasing in the fall months.

Additional benefits of the move are better, more direct communication between SMO and SMAC resulting in improved staff interaction between the two companies. “We will create a more collaborative environment between the production and sales groups of Suzuki ATVs and foster better connection between the Rome- and Brea-based teams,” said Haga.

Suzuki’s United States distribution headquarters are in Brea, California. Suzuki relocated there in 1981 after first coming to the United States in 1963.

Haga added that SMAC becoming a subsidiary of SMO sets the stage for new Suzuki ATV offerings and enhancements to existing products in the future.

Chef Eatz Offering Meal Package Delivery To Races And Track Days

David Swarts

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March 5, 2024

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Chef Eatz Offering Meal Package Delivery To Races And Track Days

Chef Eatz Prepares for Iconic Daytona 200

As the famous Daytona 200 nears, Chef Eatz prepares by offering free delivery of meal packages to racers, their teams, and families alike!

Chef Eatz has quickly become a staple in the motorcycle community over the last year by offering healthy, high-quality meals that can be reheated in just a few minutes in a microwave or portable lunch box heater.

Owner Jeff Servin explains how this vision came to be: “I was at the track training for the 2023 season, and we hit our lunch break. I sat in line for about 15 minutes, the food took about 20 minutes to get to me, and after finally getting to sit down and eat, I was ready to get back out on track for my first session after lunch. When I got back in, I felt like I weighed a thousand pounds. I could feel the greasy french fry oil pouring out of my forehead and felt like I had a gallon of grease settled in my gut. I felt like crap. I rode like crap. It just wasn’t fun after that. I had to figure out a new way to eat at track, and here we are now, offering vending at tracks, sponsorships, and more. I can’t believe we are in a place to do it, and couldn’t be prouder to be an integral part of this industry.”

It was at that moment that the Chef Eatz business model started to transform. They say that if you find a job that you love, you won’t work a day in your life. So, the Servin family started focusing on how they could bring their delicious and healthy meals to the racetrack for riders, racers, teams, and family during race weekends and track day events.

Fast forward only one year later, Chef Eatz can be found in almost every paddock across the eastern United States. At some events, you can find the Chef Eatz race bikes and vending tents that offer a variety of meals as well as microwaves for easy heating, drinks, and the Servin family doing what they love – offering healthy meals and riding motorcycles!

That’s not all! Chef Eatz opened an incredible sponsorship program in 2024 that not only offers discounts for their riders and racers, but also offers an affiliate “1010” discount code that they can share among their fans, friends and family and earn revenue for their race program! Chef Eatz offers a 10% discount for the racer’s fans, friends and family and matches that discount and sends CASH directly to the racer! This new sponsorship program seems to be one-of-a-kind, especially coming from a small, family-owned business that truly puts their money where their mouth is!

“I’m sure this program is only for the Pros.”

WRONG!

While Chef Eatz does partner with some huge names like JD Beach, Max Van, Avery Dreher, and more, they also partner with amateur racers and track day riders as well! This company really cares about the industry and has shown a true effort in helping with the rising costs of enjoying a motorcycle at the racetrack!

As Daytona 200 approaches, Chef Eatz has offered free, hand-delivered orders for pickup at Daytona in the infield on March 8th!

You can order at ChefEatz.Bottle.com and select Daytona 200 Pickup, and they’ll see you at the track!

Next time you see a Chef Eatz tent, stop and say hello! You’re likely to not only see Jeff running around, but the entire family!

American Flat Track: 2024 Season Kicks Off Thursday Night In Daytona

David Swarts

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March 5, 2024

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American Flat Track: 2024 Season Kicks Off Thursday Night In Daytona

Mees Targets Record Tenth Grand National Championship as Progressive AFT Opens ‘24 Season with Daytona Bike Week Doubleheader

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (March 5, 2024) – Following months of training, preparation, and anticipation, the 2024 Progressive American Flat Track season, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing, is now just two days away. And in Daytona Bike Week tradition, the season will kick off in spectacular doubleheader fashion under the lights of the Flat Track at Daytona International Speedway with the Royal Enfield Short Track at DAYTONA I & II on Thursday, March 7, and Friday, March 8, in Daytona Beach, Florida.

With decades of heroics in its record books dating back to 1954, each new battle for the fabled Grand National Championship is historic by definition. 2024 has the potential to go down as one of the most significant as reigning Mission SuperTwins king Jared Mees (No. 1 Rogers Racing/SDI Racing/Indian Motorcycle FTR750) attempts to upgrade his already lofty status from legendary to immortal.

Mees has an unprecedented tenth Championship squarely in his sights, needing just one more title triumph to reset one of the sport’s foundational records once thought unbreakable. However, it’ll likely prove one of the most difficult of his remarkable career, a fact that could very well be underlined in the Daytona opener.

Despite his lengthy list of accomplishments, Mees has yet to conquer the DAYTONA Short Track. That reality is in sharp contrast to rising title challenger Dallas Daniels (No. 32 Estenson Racing Yamaha MT-07 DT), who dominated the event last year, a feat that served as a springboard to a spectacular sophomore season in which he very nearly toppled Mees in his quest for a ninth Grand National Championship. And Daniels only figures to be that much more formidable in ‘24 as he continues to gain confidence and experience.

Another rival standing in the path of Mees is two-time Mission SuperTwins champion Briar Bauman (No. 3 Parts Plus/Jacob Companies KTM 790 Duke), who toiled in ‘23 with the expectation of being rewarded for those efforts in ‘24. Bauman managed to win a pair of races last season even as he tamed a KTM 790 Duke that was still early in its development. The hard-earned knowledge gleaned last season should allow him to once again emerge a full-blown championship contender.

The obstacles Mees will need to overcome do not end with Daniels and Bauman. The 2024 field is loaded with the greatest motorcycle dirt trackers on the planet, including premier-class Main Event winners Davis Fisher (No. 67 Rackley Racing/Bob Lanphere’s BMC Racing Indian FTR750), Brandon Robinson (No. 44 Mission Roof Systems Indian FTR750), Jarod Vanderkooi (No. 20 JMC Motorsports/Fairway Ford Ohio Indian FTR750), Bronson Bauman (No. 37 Fastrack Racing Mission Foods KTM 790 Duke), and Johnny Lewis (No. 10 Moto Anatomy X Powered by Royal Enfield 650).

And while Sammy Halbert (No. 69 Dodge Bros. Racing/Castrol Harley-Davidson XR750) is not a threat for the crown, he is a threat to run up front whenever he lines up during his limited schedule. That’s especially true at the DAYTONA Short Track where he stands as the event’s winningest rider, boasting four prior victories.

The Mission SuperTwins field only increases in strength this season with a number of big-name talents stepping up to full-time premier-class duty, including Max Whale (No. 18 Latus Motors Racing/Liqui Moly Harley-Davidson XG750R), Trevor Brunner (No. 21 Mission Foods/Zanotti Racing KTM 790 Duke), Declan Bender (No. 70 GOMR/BriggsAuto.com/Martin Trucking Indian FTR750), and Morgen Mischler (No. 13 Big Red Super Twins Honda XL750R), who joins Dan Bromley (No. 62 Big Red Super Twins Honda XL750R) on the newly announced Honda-powered Big Red Super Twins squad.

Parts Unlimited AFT Singles presented by KICKER

It’s something of a similar story in the Parts Unlimited AFT Singles presented by KICKER class, where reigning champ Kody Kopp (No. 1 Latus Motors/BMC KTM 450 SX-F) is in position to become the most decorated rider in the history of the category, both in terms of championship triumphs and race victories.

Kopp projects as Mission SuperTwins superstar in the near future; if everything goes to plan, this could very easily prove to be his last opportunity to leave his mark in the extraordinarily competitive and entertaining Parts Unlimited AFT Singles class.

His presence is also an opportunity for other up-and-coming riders looking to make their own impression. The list of potential usupers to Kopp’s throne is headlined by the Tom Drane (No. 59 Estenson Racing Yamaha YZ450F), Chase Saathoff (No. 88 JPG Motorsports Honda CRF450R), and Trent Lowe (No. 48 American Honda/Mission Foods CRF450R).

Once fully up to speed, Drane was effectively Kopp’s equal over the ‘23 season’s second half and should only be that much better in his second full season. Saathoff has been on the verge of a breakthrough maiden win for two seasons now, the first of which could come at any time and open the floodgates to many more. Lowe managed to break down that same wall a year ago and now looks to transform that speed into legitimate title contention.

The class is never in short supply of talent, also boating the likes of Dalton Gauthier (No. 79 D&D Certified/Vance & Hines KTM 450 SX-F), Shayna Texter-Bauman (No. 52 Parts Plus/Jacob Companies KTM 450 SX-F), and James Ott (No. 19 1st Impressions Race Team Husqvarna FC450) among its ranks.

It’s also a battleground where newcomers can establish themselves as frontrunners with little delay. Could 2023 Nicky Hayden AMA Flat Track Horizon Award winner Evan Renshaw (No. 265 American Honda/Mission Foods CRF450R) become the latest rookie sensation to set the Progressive AFT alight?

Additionally, Royal Enfield will showcase its enormously successful and popular Build. Train. Race. (BTR) program on both days at the Royal Enfield Short Track at DAYTONA. Since its introduction, BTR has injected new talent and excitement into the series as highlights, celebrates, and encourages the involvement of women in flat track racing.

There will be plenty to keep fans entertained off the track as well, including numerous vendors, plenty of food and beverage options, music courtesy of international famed and Daytona-based DJ Shea Michaels, fireworks displays at the conclusion of both night’s Main Event programs, Monster Energy and Mission Foods sampling activations, and extensive motorcycle parking.

General Admission Grandstand tickets are just $30 (kids 12 and under $5) each day, while Reserved Grandstand tickets are only $10 more (all ages) per day. The Pit Pass Upgrade provides all-day access to the pit area where fans can scope out the world’s fastest dirt track motorcycles and get up close and personal with the stars of the sport. Pit access is included with Reserved Pit Grandstand tickets, which are $75 per day.

New for 2024 is the Opening Ceremonies Trackside Fan Experience ($150 all ages). This ticket option provides reserved seating with pit pass access, a guided tour of, and photo opportunities at, the infield podium and start/finish line, infield viewing of Opening Ceremonies and the heat races, and a track talk and photo opportunity with 2016 Grand National Champion Bryan Smith.

Fans can save $10 by purchasing Thursday and Friday tickets together via the Multi-Day Discount.

To purchase Royal Enfield Short Track at DAYTONA I tickets, visit: https://www.tixr.com/groups/americanflattrack/events/daytona-short-track-i-86846.

To purchase Royal Enfield Short Track at DAYTONA II tickets, visit: https://www.tixr.com/groups/americanflattrack/events/daytona-short-track-ii-86992.

And to take advantage of the Multi-Day Discount for the Royal Enfield Short Track at DAYTONA I & II, visit: https://www.tixr.com/groups/americanflattrack/events/daytona-short-track-i-and-ii-86845.

Gates will open for fans at 3:00 p.m. ET/12:00 p.m. PT with Opening Ceremonies scheduled to begin at 7:00 p.m. ET/4:00 p.m. PT on both days.

For those that can’t catch the live action from the circuit, FloRacing is the live streaming home of Progressive AFT. Motorsports fans can subscribe to FloRacing to enjoy over 1,000 live motorsports events in 2024. FloSports is available by visiting https://flosports.link/aft or by downloading the FloSports app on iOS, Android, Apple TV, Roku, Amazon Fire and Chromecast.

For more information on Progressive AFT visit https://www.americanflattrack.com.

To score the latest gear for the Progressive American Flat Track fan, visit our official merchandise store at https://store.americanflattrack.com.

Classic Track Day Schedules Special Doubleheader Event At Willow Springs

David Swarts

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March 5, 2024

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Classic Track Day Schedules Special Doubleheader Event At Willow Springs

Classic Track Day has scheduled a special doubleheader event at Willow Springs International Raceway, in Rosamond, California, in March.

On Saturday, March 30, Classic Track Day takes to the partially repaved 2.5-mile main track at Willow Springs – the “fastest road in the West.”

Those camping overnight will have the opportunity to partake in a barbeque and mini bike “mayhem” organized by Classic Track Day.

Then on Sunday, March 31, participants will move over to the slower, 1.6-mile Streets of Willow road course.

Classic Track Days caters to riders of vintage, air-cooled modern classics, and non-traditional track bikes as well as to newer riders. Classes for new riders will be available.

For more information, contact Classic Track Day at (310) 980-7129, [email protected], www.classictrackday.com.

MotoAmerica: OnlyFans Racing Warhorse Ducati Team Unveiled At Mount Airy Casino

David Swarts

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March 5, 2024

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MotoAmerica: OnlyFans Racing Warhorse Ducati Team Unveiled At Mount Airy Casino

Ducati’s presence in MotoAmerica looks very different for 2024. Besides dropping their Supersport efforts and focusing only on a two-rider lineup in the 2024 Steel Commander MotoAmerica Superbike Championship, the livery is dramatically different.

Goodbye red, hello blue.

Meet the 2024 OnlyFans Racing Warhorse Ducati team, unveiled Saturday during a launch party at a main sponsor’s location, the Mount Airy Casino in the Poconos, a Pennsylvania mecca for vacationers. Greg White, the lead commentator for MotoAmerica on FOX Sports, hosted the event before an audience blended with fans, team members, and the legendary Eraldo Ferracci, who helped the HSBK Warhorse Ducati team since day one in various ways, including securing riders.

The 2024 riders Josh Herrin and Loris Baz took the wraps of their Ducati Panigale V4 R superbikes with the new livery designed by another Pennsylvania company, DrippinWet.

Herrin was instrumental in landing OnlyFans as a team sponsor. The California native has worked with the social media giant for three years. Now, the OnlyFans logo and blue coloring will be seen across the paddocks and race tracks during this year’s nine-round Superbike season.

Mention OnlyFans, and many immediately think of x-rated subscription content. But the London-based brand is also focused on becoming a leading social channel that highlights creative fitness and sports content, and the new relationship with the HSBK Warhorse Ducati team backs this sentiment.

The 2024 OnlyFans Warhorse Ducati team with Josh Herrin (left) and Loris Baz (right) seated on their bikes and Elrado Ferracci (center). — The 2024 OnlyFans Racing Warhorse Ducati team with Josh Herrin (left) and Loris Baz (right) seated on their bikes and Elrado Ferracci (center). OnlyFans Racing Warhorse Ducati

Herrin strives to see that new livery up front and on the podium, and he has proven he has the experience to do so with his record: 2013 AMA Superbike Champion (Yamaha YZF-R1), 2016 MotoAmerica Superstock Champion (Yamaha), and the 2022 MotoAmerica Supersport Champion (Ducati Panigale V2).

After securing that Supersport title with HSBK Warhorse Ducati, Herrin advanced to the Superbike series for 2023, claiming two wins and 11 podiums on the V4 R. Finishing second overall in 2023 behind Jake Gagne (Yamaha), Herrin’s journey from a one-rider lineup to leading the charge alongside Baz in 2024 is a narrative of growth, ambition, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.

“Spending the last 2.5 years with this team has been a dream,” Herrin says. “They’ve become family. Teaming up with Baz, we share a similar style and a competitive spirit that drives us to push harder. Analyzing data and comparing our performances will undoubtedly elevate our game. The synergy with Baz, our shared competitive drive, and our analytical approach to performance promises a season of pushing boundaries and setting new benchmarks.”

And although you won’t see an OnlyFans Ducati in the Supersport class during 2024 MotoAmerica season, the team will field one in this Saturday’s Daytona 200. There, Herrin will look to defend his 2023 Daytona 200 title.

Baz shares similar sentiments about the revamped team with strong backing from OnlyFans.

The Frenchman returns to MotoAmerica after two seasons on the BMW S 1000 RR in World Superbike. Baz, who became the youngest champ in Europe at 15 after winning the European Superstock 600cc Championship in 2008, raced for the HSBK Ducati Warhorse team in the 2021 MotoAmerica Superbike series, achieving nine podium finishes and achieving fourth overall. That season was a learning curve for Baz, who struggled with pavement issues at the stateside tracks.

“I’m really happy to be back in the States,” says Baz when asked about his return to MotoAmerica. “I knew I was going to be back one day after my 2021 season. That 2021 season was tough, don’t get me wrong. We didn’t reach our goal, but we learned a lot. But there’s more to learn in 2024. This time I will not only have an improved V4 R, but also a teammate that I can share data and talk with to learn faster and give Ducati a great chance at the title.”

As for the pavement issues, the revamped surfaces should help with the 2024 season. “I loved all the layouts of the tracks, but the pavement was an issue. Now it should be better. The Ducati is a super stiff bike, so those bumps were an issue. But this year should be better. Excited for all the tracks, especially COTA.”

Following the team launch, the revamped team now focuses all energy on the opening of the 2024 MotoAmerica Superbike Championship, which gets underway April 19 at Road Atlanta. Baz will undoubtedly be seeking redemption there due to his 2021 season when he crashed out of Race One while battling for the lead and suffered a DNF in Race Two for technical issues. Herrin had finishes of fourth and third last year at Road Atlanta.

As the 2024 season unfolds, it’ll be hard to miss that pale blue livery on Ducati V4 R machinery. With the added backing from the new title sponsor and the two-person team structure, the OnlyFans Warhorse Ducati team looks to bring the stateside Superbike title back to Ducati. And it’s been a long time; 30 years ago, Troy Corser claimed the AMA Superbike title, snatching it from Yamaha’s Jamie James. In 2022, former HSBK Ducati rider Danilo Petrucci had the chance but lost it to Gagne during the final round.

Will 2024 be the year for a not-so-red Ducati to reclaim the Superbike honors? Only time—or better yet, OnlyFans—will tell.

MotoAmerica: Daytona 200 Will Be First-Ever Race For Rahal Ducati Moto Team

David Swarts

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March 4, 2024

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MotoAmerica: Daytona 200 Will Be First-Ever Race For Rahal Ducati Moto Team

RAHAL DUCATI MOTO PREPARES FOR FIRST-EVER RACE

The trio of riders and crew enter Daytona 200 race week with confidence and high expectations

ZIONSVILLE, Ind (03.04.2024) – Nearly six months after the announcement of Rahal Ducati Moto entering the Supersport class of MotoAmerica competition, the team is headed to the iconic Daytona International Speedway for its first round of competition. The 82nd running of the Daytona 200 will mark the maiden race for the new team, entering three machines into the event.

PJ Jacobsen, a veteran of American road racing, will pilot the No.15 XPEL Ducati Panigale V2 for his fourth attempt to capture the Daytona 200 title. In last year’s edition of the race, Jacobsen earned his best-ever starting and finishing positions on the 3.51-mile course, starting from the second position and claiming a fifth-place finish.

The youngest rider in the team’s stable, Kayla Yaakov, will captain the No. 19 XPEL Ducati Panigale V2 in her rookie attempt at the legendary race. Yaakov marks the youngest rider in this year’s event at 16-years-old and one of only two female riders to enter the attempt to qualify for the 57-lap race.

Rounding out the team’s line-up is Corey Alexander, riding the No. 23 Roller Die + Forming Ducati Panigale V2. While this year’s running will be his first Daytona 200, the veteran rider is no stranger to the Daytona track. In 2014, Alexander earned the pole position and claimed victory at both races of the AMA Pro Supersport event at Daytona (sprint races rather than endurance).

With the combination of talent, experience, drive, and competitive race machines produced by the Rahal Ducati Moto team, the expectations of results have been set high for the team’s first appearance. With 200 miles to showcase skill and speed, the team looks to start its rookie campaign in the MotoAmerica Supersport class with promising results.

The Daytona 200 will host a two-group practice session on Thursday morning, with the first round of qualifying on Thursday afternoon. The second round of qualifying will take place on Friday morning, followed by Time Attack and the pit stop competition. Race day will begin with a final warm up for entries to take in the track once more before the track goes green Saturday afternoon for the 82nd Running of the Daytona 200 at 1:50pm ET. The race can be watched live on MotoAmerica Live + and an encore presentation Sunday on MAVTV.

QUOTE BOARD:

COREY ALEXANDER (No. 23 Roller Die + Forming Ducati Panigale V2): “I’ve been eager to return to the high banks of Daytona for a long time now. I am even more stoked to have the 200 as the first outing for the entire Rahal Ducati Moto team. I look forward to seeing where we stack up against a crazy, competitive field and seeing if one of us will take home a Rolex!”

PJ JACOBSEN (No. 15 XPEL Ducati Panigale V2): “I’m looking forward to this year’s Daytona 200! Last year’s race didn’t go as well as I would have liked after qualifying second – almost earning the pole position. The race was disappointing for me because we had potential, but I am looking forward to running it this year with Rahal Ducati Moto. We have a great team and competitive bikes coming into the weekend, so I am looking forward to not only to Daytona, but also the season, and seeing where we end up.

“The goal for this weekend is to start from pole position and try to win the Daytona 200. It is a very, very difficult race – there is a lot going on and anything can happen, so we just want to have a clean race, stay in the fight until the end, and make sure we capitalize on all the opportunities to see what can happen and hopefully we’ll finish at the front.”

KAYLA YAAKOV (No. 19 XPEL Ducati Panigale V2): “This year will be my first time ever competing in the [Daytona] 200. I’ve been to the track before to compete in a short amateur race, but that did not provide much track time, so I’m going into the weekend with little experience on the track. It’s going to be a lot of fun learning the track and learning the dynamics of the bigger bike. I’m going to have a lot of fun this weekend, and I think it’s going to be a really, really cool learning experience. My plan is to just take it all in and be able to hopefully get in a decent result, and start some momentum for the rest of the season.”

GRAHAM RAHAL (Team Owner): “I’m really looking forward to kicking the MotoAmerica season off. Our team has been working tirelessly to be sure we show up race-ready and competitive for our first outing in motorcycle road racing. We’re carrying some momentum off a very solid test a few weeks ago, and have only continued to make improvements to the bikes, so I believe we’ll have a very solid chance to finish the weekend with promising results. We know we’re coming into the series with a target on our backs, and we’re ready to prove to everyone that Rahal Ducati Moto has what it takes to not only be competitive in this paddock, but also win races. I think we’ve built an incredible team with talented riders and mechanics, and I have full faith that come Saturday, we’ll be contending at the front of the field. I wish I could be there this weekend to support our team’s first run, and I can promise you I will be staying in the loop from afar and tuning in to all of the sessions I can.”

BEN SPIES (Team Principal): “Heading into Daytona, everybody’s really excited. We’re looking forward to seeing the XPEL and Roller Die Ducatis on track and seeing how we fare. It’s been a big job over the off-season to put everything together. We’ve got a lot of experience within the team so we hope things will go smoothly at Daytona. The Daytona 200 is a different beast for sure – there are a lot of things that can happen there. The depth of the competition in the field may be the deepest we’ve ever seen, or at least since the 90s, so we’re excited to see how we do. Again, I just hope things can go smoothly and we can use this weekend as a good learning experience. If we keep our heads in the game, and everything goes as planned, I think, as a team, we can put together a pretty good result.”

MotoAmerica: Husband-And-Wife Team Returning To Daytona 200

David Swarts

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March 4, 2024

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MotoAmerica: Husband-And-Wife Team Returning To Daytona 200

Jason Farrell and Jessica Capizzi are teammates racing for Get Fast Performance in the 82nd running of the Daytona 200. What’s unique about this team? For starters, they happen to be married and are the only husband and wife both competing in the Daytona 200.

This fast duo stands out against the rest because they don’t just race together, but they do everything together! They build their bikes completely from the bottom up, they own and run a motorcycle performance shop, and they build a substantial amount of customer bikes all year long. They even build bikes for other racers in the Daytona 200!

Jason, a veteran of this race, has competed in nine previous Daytona 200 races, making this his 10th. He has led the race on multiple occasions and so far, has a best finish of fifth place.

Jessica, not having raced as many years as Jason, has raced in the 200 twice before. However, both times she finished in the top 20 and continues to increase her pace every year. She’s been the only female in the race each time she has competed.

Catching up with them before this event, Jessica said, “It’s just insane how much work has to be done in preparation for this race. There’s putting the team together, training all the team members in their jobs, building the bikes – engines, suspension, dyno tuning. Literally everything on the bikes we do here at our shop, building other racers’ bikes, running the business, loading up the race rig, driving it all the way from Wisconsin down to Daytona. It’s such a whirlwind we kind of forget we’re in the race until we get down there.”

Jason agrees: “I don’t think there’s any other racers in the Daytona 200 – or even at all – who are doing all that we are doing. It’s a crazy amount of work. The race itself is hard on its own. Then you add in that you have to worry about your wife and hope she does well while at the same time worrying about your own race, plus hoping your customers do well, too. I will say, though, that I think it’s incredible to share the passion for this sport with my wife. At the end of the day, even with all the crazy stress, I’m glad to do what I love to do and do it with who I love. I’m very lucky.”

Jessica added, “I feel truly grateful to be doing what I’ve dreamed of since I was little. I’ve always wanted to race professionally and work on motorcycles. Sharing this with my husband is just icing on the cake for me.”

They ended by saying that they are excited, albeit stressed, about the upcoming race. Their story is definitely one to follow since they have no plans on slowing down anytime soon.

To watch this year’s Daytona 200, subscribe to MotoAmerica’s live streaming service, MotoAmerica Live Plus. Subscribers can watch races in all MotoAmerica classes live or on-demand, as well as view highlights, interviews and races from years past. To learn more about MotoAmerica Live Plus, visit http://motoamericaliveplus.com.

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Glenn Irwin (2). Photo courtesy Paul Bird Motorsport.