World Superbike: Bautista, Ducati Splitting For 2026

Michael Gougis

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June 12, 2025

World Superbike: Bautista, Ducati Splitting For 2026

Alvaro Bautista (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) has provided a shock to the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship silly season after confirming that the option in his latest contract, which required both the #19 and the team to take up, will not be triggered by Ducati. It seems like the two-time Champion’s relationship with the Italian manufacturer will conclude at the end of the 2025 campaign, with Bautista declaring: “I’m free for next year.”

Bautista’s first foray into WorldSBK came in 2019 with the Aruba.it Racing – Ducati squad and he made an instant impression on the Championship, winning his first 11 races and looking like he’ll put up a title charge. However, he ultimately fell short after a series of crashes allowed then Kawasaki rider Jonathan Rea (Pata Maxus Yamaha) to take control of the title race and win his fifth in a row.

After 2019, Bautista moved to Honda for two seasons, although it was a considerably less successful spell for the #19. He scored three podiums across the 2020 and 2021 campaigns, with his two years with the Japanese brand marred by several crashes. At the end of 2021, he returned back to the Aruba.it Racing – Ducati squad and put right the wrongs he would’ve felt of 2019, taking the first of two titles.

He backed up his 2022 success with the 2023 title despite being taken all the way to the season finale by Toprak Razgatlioglu (ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team), who was with Yamaha at the time, but he has struggled to replicate that form since. In 2024, the 40-year-old secured only four wins – down from 27 in 2023 – and so far in 2025, he has yet to record a victory. His win drought is the longest while on Ducati machinery, at 21 races.

Speaking at Ducati’s home round, Bautista provided an update on his future and confirmed Ducati wouldn’t take up their side of the option. He stated: “As I said at the last round, my intention is to keep racing because I feel good. I think physically and mentally, I feel ready, I feel strong enough to fight for good results. For sure, I had signed with Ducati for ’25 and ’26, but with the possibility of breaking the contract from my side and also from their side. I communicated to the team that, from my side, I was happy and wanted to continue because I felt that, even with the rules, we’re working and arriving at a good performance. Then, Ducati said from their side, they don’t want to accept the conditions we signed so they broke the agreement; that’s all I can say because if you want to know more about this, you have to ask Ducati.

“I’m not really worried because I think I feel good and competitive on the bike and still my target is to keep racing. The conditions that me and Ducati had signed is no more. I’m free for next year. At the moment, I’m a Ducati rider and want to do the best; to have a good weekend here at our home race and that’s all I can say.”

Harley-Davidson Homecoming® Festival Will Rev And Rock

Mathilde Gasnier

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June 11, 2025

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Harley-Davidson Homecoming® Festival Will Rev And Rock

In just a month the annual Harley-Davidson Homecoming® Festival will shake the Milwaukee area with the rumble of revving engines and a foot stompin’ celebration of music and moto-culture July 10-13, 2025. The festival kicks off with a free opening concert headlined by Buckcherry at the Harley-Davidson Museum on Thursday, July 10. Festival concert headliners Chris Stapleton (July 12) and Hank Williams Jr. (July 11) will take over the Harley-Davidson Stage at Veterans Park on the Milwaukee lakefront. Other Harley- Davidson Homecoming events and activities will be held at both free and ticketed venues across the Milwaukee area, including Veterans Park, the Harley-Davidson Museum, Harley- Davidson Headquarters on Juneau Ave., Harley-Davidson Powertrain Operations in Menomonee Falls, and at local authorized Harley-Davidson dealerships.

Veterans Park

At the heart of the festival are two full days of live music across two stages headlined by Chris Stapleton and Hank Williams Jr. at Veterans Park, Friday and Saturday, July 11-12 (Ticket required.) Friday support acts include Treaty Oak Revival, Charles Wesley Godwin, Ole 60, Giovannie and the Hired Guns, and more. On Saturday, Turnpike Troubadours, Seirra Farrell, 49 Winchester, The Droptines and ÖOF TATATÁ, among others, will play throughout the day. VisitHDHomcoming.com for a schedule of musical acts.

Veterans Park also features two days of mototainment and festival experiences, including:

Monster Energy Freestyle Motocross Shows featuring pro riders Axell Hodges and Takayuki Higashino.
Flash tattooing by famed artist Luke Wessman in the Monster Energy Tattoo Parlor, alongside the Monster Barber Shop.
Good times and great brews from Harley-Davidson’s Milwaukee neighbor Molson Coors at the Beer Hall.
Chances to win Reward Play and other great prizes from VIP Area presenting partner Potawatomi Casino Hotel Milwaukee.
Summer vibes and fun carnival games at the Smirnoff ICE Flavor Fair.
Enter for a chance to win a new H-D Street Glide® motorcycle at the Pure Kick High Octane Hydration station.
Stop for delicious new flavors and exclusive swag at the BeatBox BeatBus.
Experience a chainsaw woodcarving exhibition by Perry Carlson presented by STIHL.
A custom Bike Build Off Reveal by Unknown Industries, with live pinstriping from Taylor Schultz.
Get up close with the Fastenal x Harley-Davidson NASCAR #17 RFK Racing show car.

Mission Foods will showcase their Harley-Davidson King of the Baggers racing partnership along with sampling motorcycle-shaped tortilla chips.
Free motorcycle parking provided by Harley-Davidson Insurance.
Friday only, a chance to meet some of the most dynamic personalities shaping the culture within Harley-Davidson’s community at the largest H-D Creators Meet & Greet of 2025.

Tickets for the Veterans Park venue are on sale now at HDHomecoming.com. Ticket holders can experience Veterans Park with 2-Day and 1-Day General Admission (GA), GA+, or an ultimate VIP experience presented by Potawatomi Casino Hotel Milwaukee to enjoy all day music, entertainment, local food, beverages, and more. Admission is free for children 10 and under (General Admission only. One child per GA-ticketed adult.)

Other Ticket Options (while supplies last)

Flexible “pay at your own pace” payment options
Bundle and save up to $60 a ticket with GA 2-pack or 4-pack bundles
GOVX & Student Discounts available on 2-Day General Admission Tickets

Harley-Davidson Museum/Milwaukee

The Harley-Davidson Museum hosts the Official Harley-Davidson Homecoming® Festival Kickoff Party and Military Appreciation Day on Thursday, July 10. Activities and entertainment include an opening address and a string of live music performances headlined by rock band Buckcherry on the Harley-Davidson Museum Rockford Fosgate® stage. Through the run of the festival the Museum will host custom bike shows, stunt shows, and a range of additional experiences and entertainment provided by Harley-Davidson festival partners, including:

The incredible Ives Brothers Wall of Death Stunt Show
Stunning custom motorcycles in the V-Twin Visionary Custom Motorcycle Showcase
The Rockford Fosgate® Motorcycle Audio Experience – Official H-D Museum Stage Sponsor
Dunlop® Motorcycle Tires display
Real Deal Revolution Workshoppes (Friday-Saturday only)
The Division BMX Stunt Show (Saturday-Sunday only)
All the latest motorcycles in the 2025 H-D® New Product Showroom
The Skin Museum Custom Tattoos
Official H-D® Membership Check-In
Twisted Tea® – Giveaway of a Custom H-D Motorcycle built by Cycle Source
Official Harley-Davidson Trucks Experience
Harley-Davidson® Insurance Experience
Wisconsin Lottery® Experience
Shanky’s WhipTM Sampling & Photo Op
EAGLERIDER Motorcycle Rentals & Tours
Taste the Mission Foods® Sampling Experience
SPTM Connect Experience
Check out the LiveWire® Showcase and STACYCTM Demos

Close out the festival on Sunday, July 13 with a Roll Out Brunch & Ride-In Custom Bike Show. The Harley-Davidson Museum will also be open for regular visitation hours.

Homecoming festival entertainment at the Museum is free of charge and open to the public. Tickets are required for admission to H-D Museum exhibits and tours during operating hours. Discounts available for students, seniors and U.S. Military. Admission is free for Harley Owners Group® members, H-D Museum Annual Passholders, and children under 5. Go to Harley- Davidson Museum for a complete schedule of events.

Harley-Davidson Powertrain Operations/Menomonee Falls, Wis.

Harley-Davidson’s onsite factory will feature self-guided engine assembly and machining tours, as well as 2025 model motorcycle test rides.

Factory Tours: Tickets are $15 and include a 30-45 minute self-guided tour of the Powertrain Operations factory floor plus exclusive keepsake. Children must be 12 years of age or older. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
2025 Harley-Davidson Model Demo Rides: A wide selection of 2025 Harley-Davidson motorcycles will be made available to licensed riders for free test rides during open hours.

Harley-Davidson Headquarters/Juneau Avenue, Milwaukee

Festival goers can enjoy entertainment and more at the epicenter of motorcycle history. Harley- Davidson Headquarters general campus and vendor access, along with music, an antique motorcycle show, lawn games are free. Guided facility tours are available for purchase.

Participating Harley-Davidson Affiliates and Program Partners

The festival wouldn’t be “all things Harley-Davidson” without including Motor Company riding programs and local dealers. Participation includes onsite experiences at Veterans Park and the Harley-Davidson Museum, as well as independent activities hosted by several Harley-Davidson dealers throughout the Milwaukee area.

Complete details on ticketing options, venues, entertainment, scheduled events and Harley- Davidson facility tours are available at HDHomecoming.com, where visitors can also sign up for H-D Homecoming updates. Follow the @hdhomecoming festival social media handle and @harleydavidson for updates.

MRA : Race Results From Pueblo Motorsports Park

Mathilde Gasnier

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June 11, 2025

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MRA : Race Results From Pueblo Motorsports Park

Hendry Continues Hot Streak to Defend Race of the Rockies Championship Lead

Electric atmosphere, blistering pace, and record-breaking attendance define a thrilling Sunday of racing.

The Motorcycle Roadracing Association (MRA) brought the heat to Pueblo Motorsports Park for Round 2 of the 2025 season supported by season sponsor Aces Motorcycles, on Sunday, June 8th. With hot summer temperatures in the 70s and 80s and mostly clear skies, racers were treated to ideal track conditions from the start of the first race to the last checkered flag. A record-setting 94 racers filled the paddock, promising a full day of high-speed action and fierce rivalries building into the season.

Fay Myers Race of the Rockies GTO

Hendry leads the charge into turn 3 on the first lap. Photo by Kelly Vernell

Brad Hendry (1) wasted no time getting down to business as the lights went out, launching off the line and immediately applying pressure on the rest of the grid. Behind him, Kreece Elliot (97), Justen Behmer (4), David Lambert (28), Ken Yee (433) and James Wilkerson (98) gave chase, forming a fast early pack. However, Hendry was on a mission, stretching out a gap early on the first lap of the race. On lap 7, Elliot who was in 2nd place, had a moment of misfortune running off track in Turn 1. The pursuing pack behind him quickly took advantage. Lambert locked in on Behmer who was now in 2nd place but struggled to find a way around some solid defensive lines. With Behmer and Lambert battling, Yee was able to seize the opportunity and managed a pass on Lambert who later crashed in turn 2.

Meanwhile, Matthew Cunha (95), who got off to a tough start, had begun slicing through the field on his newly acquired Alpha Racing BMW. Just ahead, Yee was looking to take Behmer up the inside of turn 7 but Behmer quickly slammed the door shut. That would force Yee to attempt an outside move exiting turn 7 which resulted in Yee going off track. Cunha took full advantage and continued to power forward with Behmer in sight. Eventually Cunha was able to make the pass on Behmer with an impressive outside drive out of turn 7. From there, Cunha held firm to secure second place. Hendry would bring home the gold once again and continues to defend the championship #1 plate so far in this exciting 2025 season.

Brad Hendry (1), Matthew Cunha (95), Justen Behmer (4). Mark Woodard Interviews Race of the Rockies podiums. Photo by: Marlom Juarez – Altezza Studios

🥇1st – Brad Hendry (BMW S1000RR)
🥈2nd – Matthew Cunha (BMW M1000RR)
🥉3rd – Justen Behmer (Kawasaki ZX-10R)

Apex Auto Glass Race of the Rockies GTU

Rizzo (9) leads on the final lap of Race of the Rockies GTU. Photo by: Kelly Vernell

Steven Racz (37) got off to a phenomenal start, claiming the holeshot into Turn 1, but had Orkun Krand (131) and Salvatore Rizzo (9) directly on his tail. Rizzo, battling early clutch issues, clawed his way back into contention, igniting a tight three-way fight at the front.

Rizzo made his first move on Krand before setting his sights on the leader. A small mistake by Racz in Turn 7 gave Rizzo the opening he needed to take the lead. With smooth, consistent 1:35 lap times, Rizzo stretched his advantage slightly.

Rizzo (9) leads ahead of Steven Racz (37) and Orkun Krand (131) in Race of the Rockies GTU. Photo by: Kelly Vernell

Meanwhile, Krand had found some impressive pace, and executed an attack on the exit of turn 10. Drawing even with Racz on the front straight and winning a dramatic braking duel into turn 1 to secure 2nd place. As the race continued, Krand was able keep Rizzo within his sights with a great 2nd place finish followed by Racz in 3rd, but ultimately Rizzo would end up defending his championship lead to the checkered flag and took the top step on the podium.

Orkun Krand (131), Salvatore Rizzo (9), Steven Racz (37). Mike Schweitzer Interviews Race of the Rockies podiums. Photo by: Marlom Juarez – Altezza Studios

• 🥇1st–SalvatoreRizzo (9) (SuzukiGSXR600)

• 🥈2nd–OrkunKrand (131) (YamahaR6)

• 🥉3rd–StevenRacz# (37) (YamahaR6)

Rocky View Family Dental Amateur GTO

John Evans (41) recovers to lead the race on lap 4. Photo by: Kelly Vernell

The lights went out and Robert Brown (41) immediately went on the attack with a great start to lead the race into turn 1 on the first lap. Behind him, Philip Takahashi (807) piloting his Yamaha FZ1 ran an impressive pace. Enter John Evans (154) who had his work cut out for him after a rough launch off the line. But Evans kept his composure and began methodically working his way through the field. By lap 4, he had made up the lost ground and took the lead down the straight, holding it with authority for the remainder of the race.

Takahashi was locked in a heated battle for 2nd with Brown, attempting several overtake attempts through the mid-race laps. In the final two laps, Brown dug deep to hold off Takahashi’s late charge and crossed the line just ahead for a thrilling finish. Evans was successful in taking home the victory with a decisive lead, continuing his great start to the season.

John Evans (154), Robert Brown (41), Phillip Takahashi. Mark Woodard Interviews Race of the Rockies podiums. Photo by: Marlom Juarez – Altezza Studios — John Evans (154), Robert Brown (41), Phillip Takahashi (807). Mark Woodard Interviews Race of the Rockies podiums. Photo by: Marlom Juarez – Altezza Studios

• 🥇1st–JohnEvans (154) (BMWS1000RR)

• 🥈2nd–RobertBrown (41) (ApriliaRSV4RR)

• 🥉3rd – Phillip Takahashi (807) (Yamaha FZ1)

While the headlining Race of the Rockies battles always draw attention, every race throughout the day played a vital role in shaping championship points and showcasing the incredible depth of talent across all classes. From novices gaining experience to veterans defending titles, Round 2 highlighted just how competitive and passionate the MRA racing community is.

Be sure to check out the full official race results on the MRA website to see how your favorite racers performed and how the standings are shaping up.

Join us for Round 3 at High Plains Raceway (Full Course)– July 27th

Mark your calendars and join us for an entire weekend of racing!

MRA Round 2 results from PMP June 8th

Kawasaki Announces New and Returning Motorcycles for 2026

Mathilde Gasnier

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June 11, 2025

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Kawasaki Announces New and Returning Motorcycles for 2026

For riders driven by a spirit of exploration, Kawasaki introduces the all-new 2026 KLX®230 SHERPA S ABS—a dual-sport motorcycle built to inspire confidence on and off the beaten path. Whether commuting through the city or venturing onto remote trails, the SHERPA S delivers a rugged, yet approachable, package designed for the modern-day trekker.

The KLX230 SHERPA S builds upon Kawasaki’s proven KLX®230 S platform, featuring nimble handling, a low and confidence-inspiring seat height, and a design that merges sleek urban capability with durable outdoor performance. This machine utilizes a tubeless rear tire for more convenient repairs and enhanced convenience, along with a low seat “S” variant tailored for a wider range of riders seeking accessibility without compromising adventure.

Whether it’s a weekend campout or a spontaneous journey down unmarked trails, the KLX230 SHERPA S ABS motorcycle is built to adapt. Its versatility makes it the ideal two-wheeled tool for those answering the call of the wild, delivering performance, style, and practicality in one well-rounded trekking machine.

KLX230® SHERPA S ABS HIGHLIGHTS

● 233cc fuel-injected air-cooled single

● Compact perimeter frame

● Aluminum skidplate

● Handguards

● Low 32.5-inch seat height

● 21-inch front wheel and 18-inch tubeless rear wheel

● Disc brakes with selectable ABS

● Digital instrumentation with Smartphone Connectivity

When the terrain gets tough and reliability is non-negotiable, the all-new 2026 Kawasaki KLX®230 DF stands ready as the ultimate heavy-duty two-wheeled companion. Built to thrive in demanding environments, this rugged multi-purpose motorcycle combines durability, performance, and all-around usability to meet the needs of riders who require a machine that’s as capable as it is dependable.

The KLX230 DF is built off of the KLX230 platform and comes equipped with many of the same great features found on the KLX230 SHERPA S ABS, including its 233cc fuel-injected air-cooled single engine, compact perimeter frame, aluminum skidplate, disc brakes with optional ABS, handguards and tapered aluminum handlebar, LED headlight, slim shrouds, rugged styling with earth-tone colors, and digital instrumentation with smartphone connectivity. The KLX230 DF also comes equipped with a generous 7.8-inches of front wheel travel and 8.7-inches of rear wheel travel thanks to long travel suspension, and 9.4-inches of ground clearance.

Several exclusive features can also be found on the KLX230 DF, including engine guards that are attached to the bottom of the frame and add peace of mind when riding off-road and help protect the engine from tip-over damage. A rear carrier also comes as standard equipment and boasts a durable tubular steel black finish construction with a silver aluminum center plate. The 10×10-inch rear carrier offers 6.6 lbs. of cargo capacity with four welded bungee hooks for cinching cargo down.

In addition to the new models above, Kawasaki is announcing several carry-over 2026 motorcycle models:

KX™65

KX™250

KX™250X

KX™450

KX™450SR

KX™450X

KLX®110R

KLX®110R L

KLX®140R

KLX®140R L

KLX®140R F

KLX®230R

KLX®230R S

KLX®300

KLX®300SM

For complete product information and to download high-resolution images, log on or register for the Kawasaki Media Site at http://kawasakimedia.com.

Roadracing World Young Guns 2025: Nathan Gouker

Mathilde Gasnier

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June 11, 2025

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Roadracing World Young Guns 2025: Nathan Gouker

Roadracing World started this exclusive special feature recognizing the most promising young road racers as an answer to pessimists who claimed America had no new, up-and-coming young racers. This edition of the Roadracing World Young Gun Awards marks the 29th consecutive year of showcasing an abundance of new talent.

Roadracing World Young Guns have won:

FIM MotoGP and FIM Superbike races and World Championships;
MotoAmerica and AMA Pro races and Championships, including 14 AMA Pro Superbike Championships;
A KTM RC Cup World Final race;
WERA National Endurance Championships and WERA National Challenge Championships; ASRA/Formula USA Grand National and CCS National Championships;
AMA Road Racing Grand Championships and Horizon Awards;
USGPRU National Championships;
Many regional and local titles.

The competition has continually become more intense as more – and younger—racers with higher levels of accomplishment are nominated, and the level of achievement required to make the grade keeps getting tougher.

We’ve spent the last several months accepting nominations and evaluating road racers between the ages of 10 and 18 (as of the start of the 2025 season) who have, at a minimum, won Expert-level road races and/or Championships or had outstanding results as an Amateur/Novice. Most of the riders included here have done far more than the minimum.

The young riders recognized here are the most promising young road racers in North America, based on the 2024 season. All have earned the title of Roadracing World Young Gun.

We will feature one Young Gun per day, presenting them in alphabetical order.

Nathan Gouker

Age: 13.

Current home: Lexington, North Carolina.

Current height/weight: 5’3”/102 pounds.

Current school grade level: 8th grade.

Began riding at age: 4 years.

First road race: 2018, Alton, Virginia, SFLminiGP, Spec 50, 3rd place.

Current racebikes: Moriwaki 250, Honda NSF250R.

Current tuners/mechanics: Dale Quarterley, Mike Simmons, Phillip Gouker (father). Primary race series: RFME ESBK (Spanish) Talent Cup National Championship, ASRA, and WERA.

Top sponsors: Stadler, CP Motorsports, Bob Robbins, Dunlop, 1/4ley Racing, KYT Americas, VO2 Leathers, Cornerspin, Fast Glass Media, 64 Degree Racing, Carolina Supermoto, Daniels Tire, Ride Supermoto, Frando Racing, Riders Formation, 111Management.

Recent racing accomplishments: 2024 season, placed 12th in RFME ESBK (Spanish) Moto4 National Championship (two top-five finishes, missed five rounds due to broken arm); 2023 season, placed fifth in FIM MiniGP World Finale, took two top-five finishes in MIR Racing Cup Moto5 races at Cartagena, won MotoAmerica Mini Cup Ohvale 160 Championship (11 wins), placed second in FIM North America Mini Cup Ohvale 160 Championship (six wins, nine total podiums), won two WERA Sportsman National Championships (eight race wins with WERA); 2022 season, won MotoAmerica Mini Cup 110 and 160 National Championships, finished 12th overall in FIM MiniGP World Finals at Valencia, won 10 WERA Sportsman Regional Novice Championships (won 29 races from 32 starts with WERA).

2025 racing goal: Finish in top 10 of RFME ESBK (Spanish) Talent Cup National Championship.

Racing career goal: To make a living racing at the highest level I can.

Racing hero: Jack Miller.

Favorite track: Valencia.

Favorite hobby: Riding my road bicycle.

If I wasn’t racing I would be…: Racing my road bicycle.

…..

Some of the riders who have graduated from Young Guns and gone on to racing success in National or International series include:

2017 MotoAmerica Superstock 600 Champion Jason Aguilar (R.I.P.);

2013 AMA Pro SuperSport East Champion, 2022 MotoAmerica Stock 1000 Champion, and MotoAmerica Superbike podium finisher Corey Alexander;

AMA Pro Daytona SportBike race winner Tommy Aquino (R.I.P.);

2008 Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup Champion, two-time MotoAmerica Supersport Champion, and multi-time MotoAmerica Superbike race winner J.D. Beach;

Five-time MotoAmerica Superbike Champion and Moto2 World Championship point scorer Cameron Beaubier;

Former Canadian Sport Bike Champion Tomas Casas;

Three-time Canadian Sport Bike Champion and 2014 Canadian Superbike Champion Jodi Christie;

FIM JuniorGP World Championship point scorer and MotoAmerica podium finisher Torin Collins;

Former AMA Pro SuperSport East Champion and MotoAmerica Superstock 1000 race winner Josh Day;

2011 Daytona 200 winner Jason DiSalvo;

2014 AMA Pro SuperSport Championship runner-up and current MotoAmerica team owner Dustin Dominguez;

2018 MotoAmerica Junior Cup Champion, 2019 MotoAmerica Twins Cup Champion, and 2021 Canadian Superbike Champion Alex Dumas;

Four-time Pikes Peak International Hill Climb race winner and former motorcycle track record holder Carlin Dunne(R.I.P.);

Canadian Superbike race winner Bodhi Edie;

Two-time AMA Pro Daytona SportBike Champion, two-time AMA Pro XR1200/Harley- Davidson Champion and four-time Daytona 200 winner Danny Eslick;

2019 MotoAmerica Supersport Champion and multi-time MotoAmerica Superbike race winner Bobby Fong;

2010 Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup Champion, 2014 AMA Pro Daytona SportBike Champion, 2015 MotoAmerica AMA/FIM North America Superstock 1000 Champion, and three-time MotoAmerica Superbike Champion Jake Gagne;

Two-time MotoAmerica Supersport Champion and World Superbike podium finisher Garrett Gerloff;

2017 MotoAmerica Superstock 600 Championship runner-up Michael Gilbert;

2014 AMA Pro SuperSport Champion, 2023and 2024 MotoAmerica Stock 1000 Champion, and 2023 MotoAmerica King Of The Baggers Champion Hayden Gillim;

2002 AMA Superbike Champion and 2006 FIM MotoGP World Champion Nicky Hayden (R.I.P.);

2007 AMA Pro 600cc Supersport Champion, 2014 AMA Pro Superbike Championship runner- up, and 2017 MotoAmerica Superbike Championship runner-up Roger Hayden;

Eight-time AMA Pro Superbike race winner and two-time AMA Supersport Champion Tommy Hayden;

2013 AMA Pro Superbike Champion, 2016 MotoAmerica Superstock 1000 Champion, and 2022 MotoAmerica Supersport Champion, 2024 MotoAmerica Superbike Champion, and four-time Daytona 200 winner Josh Herrin;

MotoAmerica Supersport podium finisher Teagg Hobbs;

AMA Pro Superstock race winner Jake Holden;

2011 British Superbike Championship runner-up and former MotoGP and World Superbike regular John Hopkins;

2015 Supersport World Championship runner-up, 2019 and 2024 MotoAmerica Supersport Championship runner-up, and MotoAmerica Superbike race winner Patrick “P.J.” Jacobsen;

2021 MotoAmerica Supersport Champion, Moto2 World Championship point scorer, MotoAmerica Superbike race winner Sean Dylan Kelly;

Canadian Superbike race winner Kevin Lacombe;

Two-time MotoAmerica Junior Cup Champion, 2020 MotoAmerica Twins Cup Champion, 2022 MotoAmerica Supersport Championship runner-up, MotoAmerica King Of The Baggers race winner Rocco Landers;

Two-time MotoAmerica Stock 1000 Champion Andrew Lee;

2021 MotoAmerica Stock 1000 and Superbike Cup Champion Jake Lewis;

MotoAmerica Supersport race winner Sam Lochoff;

MotoAmerica Superstock 600 race winner Nick McFadden;

AMA Pro SuperSport race winner and MotoAmerica Supersport race winner Stefano Mesa;

Elena Myers, the first and only woman to win AMA Pro Supersport races;

AMA Pro XR1200 race winner, multi-time Loudon Classic winner, and two-time BRL Champion Shane Narbonne;

2012 Canadian Superbike Championship runner-up Andrew Nelson;

2016 MotoAmerica KTM RC Cup Champion, 2019 British Motostar (Moto3) Champion, MotoAmerica Supersport podium finisher, and two-time Daytona 200 winner Brandon Paasch;

2012 Daytona 200 winner and 2010 AMA Pro Supersport West Champion Joey Pascarella;

2016 MotoAmerica Superstock 600 Champion, MotoAmerica Supersport podium finisher, and powersports dealership owner Bryce Kornbau (nee Prince);

AMA Pro and Canadian National race winner and multi-time N2/WERA National Endurance Champion Chris Peris;

Two-time AMA Pro SuperSport National Champion, British Supersport podium finisher, 2020 AFT Production Twins Champion, and 2023 MotoAmerica King Of The Baggers Championship runner-up James Rispoli;

2015 MotoAmerica Superstock 600 Champion, MotoAmerica Supersport race winner, and Moto2 World Championship race winner Joe Roberts;

2022 MotoAmerica Junior Cup Championship runner-up and 2023 MotoAmerica Twins Cup Championship runner-up Gus Rodio;

2021 MotoAmerica Junior Cup Champion and multi-time MotoAmerica Supersport race winner Tyler Scott;

Former Red Bull AMA U.S. Rookies Cup Champion and former FIM Moto2 European Championship competitor Benny Solis, Jr.;

Three-time AMA Pro Superbike Champion, 2009 Superbike World Champion, MotoGP race winner, and AMA Motorcycle Hall of Famer Ben Spies;

FIM JuniorGP Moto2 European Championship regular Max Toth;

Multi-time AMA Pro race winner and four-time overall WERA National Endurance Champion Chris Ulrich;

MotoAmerica Supersport podium finisher, former World Superbike competitor, and 2024 MotoAmerica Stock 1000 Championship runner-up Jayson Uribe;

MotoAmerica Junior Cup race winner and current Supersport regular Max Van;

2017 MotoAmerica KTM RC Cup Championship runner-up, 2018 MotoAmerica Junior Cup Championship runner-up, and MotoAmerica Supersport podium finisher Cory Ventura;

Canadian Superbike race winner Alex Welsh;

Former AMA Pro Superbike Rookie of the Year, Chinese Superbike Championship race winner; MotoAmerica Supersport podium finisher, and 2024 MotoAmerica Super Hooligan Champion Cory West;

MotoAmerica Junior Cup race winner and 2024 MotoAmerica Superbike Cup Champion Ashton Yates;

Two-time AMA Pro Superbike Championship runner-up Blake Young.

Honda Rules 2025 Baja 500

Mathilde Gasnier

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June 10, 2025

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Pro Moto Unlimited victory to CRF450X-mounted SLR Honda
Red Bull Honda Talon Factory Racing wins Pro UTV NA with Talon 1000R

Honda-backed teams dominated the 57th edition of the Baja 500 over the weekend, with SLR Honda topping the Pro Moto Unlimited division and Red Bull Honda Talon Factory Racing winning the Pro UTV Normally Aspirated class.

Heavy rains hammered the Baja Peninsula leading up to the event, making for a challenging, 461.03-mile racecourse. The motorcycles began leaving the ceremonial Ensenada start line in full darkness Saturday at 3:30 a.m., with Tyler Lynn taking the SLR Honda CRF450X 209 miles southeast before handing off to teammate Carter Klein with a 10-minute lead on second place. Klein raced back north along the Pacific Coast to mile 380 before Lynn took over to the finish, reaching the checkered flag back in Ensenada with a winning time of nine hours, 18 minutes, 23 seconds, for a margin of just over 10 minutes on the runner-up Hero Racing Honda CRF450X fielded by Arturo Salas, Shane Logan and Ciaran Naran. It was Honda’s 24th two-wheel overall win in the Baja 500.

“We had a great Baja 500,” said SLR owner Mark Samuels. “The conditions were really harsh, with heavy fog and rain, but everyone performed great. I’m very proud of how the team and riders managed this win.”

It was daylight by the time the four-wheel vehicles began leaving the ceremonial start at 9:15 a.m., with Corbin Leaverton piloting the Red Bull Honda Talon Factory Racing Talon 1000R. With the assistance of codrivers Cavan Freeman and Isaac Torres, Leaverton handled the challenging conditions impressively. At the finish, the squad posted a time of 12 hours, six minutes, 41 seconds, with the Raceco-backed Team Pedder Racing Talon 1000R of Ricky Torres earning second place, six minutes and 24 seconds back.

“Corbin is an accomplished side-by-side racer, with experience stateside and in the Dakar, but he had never raced in Baja before,” said Red Bull Honda Talon Factory Racing owner Jeff Proctor. “For that reason, I don’t think he was on a lot of people’s radars, but we were confident he would do well, especially after he pre-ran all week in a stock Talon. With the weather, the course was extremely muddy, and there was very limited visibility. He ended up having to battle a couple of teams throughout the entire race, and his race craft really shined through. It was really, really challenging, and it’s so rewarding to bring home another ‘W’ for Honda.”

As usual in Baja, Red Riders performed well in other classes as well, with Honda riders taking provisional wins in Pro Moto 30, Pro Moto 40, Pro Moto Limited, Pro Moto Ironman, Sportsman Moto, Pro Quad and Sportsman Quad. Also of note was Proctor’s Passport team finishing second in the 2WD Trophy Truck class, with driver Ethan Ebert at the wheel.

Many of these same teams will be back south of the border again in November, to tackle the legendary Baja 1000.

Texas Mini Cup Race Preview

Mathilde Gasnier

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June 10, 2025

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The Texas Mini Cup’s second round will be held this Saturday, June 14 at KartMoto in Cresson Texas. The second round will feature qualifying races for all six of the Mission MotoAmerica Mini Cup classes: Stock 50 (ages 6 – 8), Stock 110 (8-12), GP 110 (ages 8 -12), GP 160 (ages 10-14), GP 190 (ages 12-16), and Street GP (ages 12 and up). 7 additional support classes will also be running too: PW 50, Mini, Super Mini, Unlimited Mini, GP 250, 300 SS, 400 SS. We did not forget about the Supermotos! Supermoto classes available as well: 250 SM and 450 SM. An additional Supermoto and 300/400 GP race has been added for those classes, be sure to sign up! Please refer to the website for complete class and tech information here: Rider Info.

Post entry is available online and at the track, and costs an additional $20. KartMoto will be hosting a practice day on Friday, June 13 for $75 (non- KartMoto members) and $25 (KartMoto members) The track will go hot on Friday at 9:00 am. New Racer School will be available starting at noon, and costs $30. Post-entry and sign up at the track entry is available for New Racer School.

Saturday’s schedule starts at 7:00 am with Registration open and Tech opening at 7:30, followed by a riders meeting at 8 am. Track goes hot at 8:30 with practice for all classes, followed by 8 minute qualifying sessions. The shorter sprint races for all classes are next, with a lunch break slated for around 12 or 12:30, and will last 30 minutes. Suburban Yard Catering will have food items available for purchase in the registration building during lunch. The afternoon schedule consists of longer Grand Prix races for all classes as well, with a podium ceremony at the end of the day.

We race Rain or Shine!

Gate fee is $10 per person, and both spectators and racers must sign the track and Texas Mini Cup waivers in registration and get a wristband.

Keystone Roofing has stepped up to sponsor the Street GP MA class, with payouts of $150 for 1st, $100 for 2nd, and $75 for 3rd. The Ohvale classes also have class payouts and championship bonuses from Flo4Law Racing, Fuller Family Racing, KYT Helmets, and the Hughes Family that will be split among the top 3 class finishers.

Thank you again to the rest of our sponsors for their support: Artisan’s Editions, Dunlop, Eleven Motorsports, Leather & Lace Racing Leather Repair, Pirelli, and South Central Race Center.

Please contact [email protected] for any questions. See you at the track!

Roadracing World Young Guns 2025: Jayden Fernandez

Mathilde Gasnier

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June 10, 2025

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Roadracing World Young Guns 2025: Jayden Fernandez

Roadracing World started this exclusive special feature recognizing the most promising young road racers as an answer to pessimists who claimed America had no new, up-and-coming young racers. This edition of the Roadracing World Young Gun Awards marks the 29th consecutive year of showcasing an abundance of new talent.

Roadracing World Young Guns have won:

FIM MotoGP and FIM Superbike races and World Championships;
MotoAmerica and AMA Pro races and Championships, including 14 AMA Pro Superbike Championships;
A KTM RC Cup World Final race;
WERA National Endurance Championships and WERA National Challenge Championships; ASRA/Formula USA Grand National and CCS National Championships;
AMA Road Racing Grand Championships and Horizon Awards;
USGPRU National Championships;
Many regional and local titles.

The competition has continually become more intense as more – and younger—racers with higher levels of accomplishment are nominated, and the level of achievement required to make the grade keeps getting tougher.

We’ve spent the last several months accepting nominations and evaluating road racers between the ages of 10 and 18 (as of the start of the 2025 season) who have, at a minimum, won Expert-level road races and/or Championships or had outstanding results as an Amateur/Novice. Most of the riders included here have done far more than the minimum.

The young riders recognized here are the most promising young road racers in North America, based on the 2024 season. All have earned the title of Roadracing World Young Gun.

We will feature one Young Gun per day, presenting them in alphabetical order.

Jayden Fernandez. Photo courtesy Jayden Fernandez.

Age: 17.

Current home: Erie, Colorado.

Current height/weight: 5’10”, 135 pounds.

Current school grade level: 11th grade.

Began riding at age: 3 years.

First road race: 2019, Dacono, CO, Rocky Mountain Mini Moto Series, Formula One, 1st.

Current racebikes: Aprilia RS 660, Yamaha YZF-R6.

Current tuners/mechanics: Alan Fernandez (father), Geoff Cesmat.

Primary race series: CIV (Italian) Aprilia RS 660 Trofeo National Championship.

Top sponsors: Inspection Specialties, Warriors In Need, RT Mechanical, Rocky View Family Dental and Implants, High Plains Raceway, Motorrev Suspension & Tuning, American Supercamp, Jon Glaefke, Back2Movement, Longmont Tire Company, KYT, IMI Motorsports Complex, Pirelli, Techspec Tank Grips, Vortex, RK Chains.

Recent racing accomplishments: 2024 season, placed sixth in MotoAmerica Junior Cup Championship (two podium finishes, one pole position); 2023 season, placed sixth in MotoAmerica Junior Cup Championship (two podium finishes); 2022 season, placed 6th in North American Talent Cup Championship (two podium finishes); 2021 season, runner-up in MotoAmerica Ohvale Cup 190 Championship, placed third in MotoAmerica Ohvale Cup 160 Championship.

2025 racing goal: Finish in the top three of the CIV Aprilia Trofeo Championship.

Racing career goal: Race in the FIM Superbike or MotoGP World Championship.

Racing hero: Nicky Hayden.

Favorite track: Catalunya.

Favorite hobby: Mountain Biking.

If I wasn’t racing I would be…: Flying airplanes.