BPR Racing team owner Bryce Kornbau has announced that he will have a five-rider team competing in MotoAmerica for the 2026 season, with official support provided by Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A.
Kornbau himself will be aboard the #17 BPR Racing Yamaha MT-09 as he competes for the first time in the Mission Super Hooligan National Championship. A former MotoAmerica class champion aboard a Yamaha, Kornbau is also a formidable race bike builder and business entrepreneur. In addition to racing, managing the BPR Racing team, and building and tuning bikes for racers, Kornbau owns Kern County Powersports, a multi-line dealership and service center in Bakersfield, California, that sells Yamaha as well as multiple other brands of street and off-road motorcycles, ATVs, side-by-sides, personal watercraft, power equipment, and more.
“I am very excited to be able to be back in the MotoAmerica paddock for another season as a racer, and a team owner,” Kornbau said. “I have really enjoyed developing the Yamaha YZF-R9, and I am looking forward to developing the Yamaha MT-09, as well. As the years go on with the expansion of my race team, I am excited about this new venture into the Super Hooligan class, along with spending more time helping the team out from a technical side and as a development rider.”
Returning to BPR Racing in Supersport on the #4 BPR Racing Yamaha YZF-R9 is Josh Hayes, four-time AMA Superbike Champion and 2025 MotoAmerica Supersport race winner. Hayes continues to show his determination and relentlessness on the track, along with his poise and experience. As one would imagine, the ‘Mississippi Madman’ brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the team, and he has been instrumental in the development of the YZF-R9 for BPR Racing.
Hayes commented, “Holy smokes, I still get to go racing! I’ve really felt honored to be able to keep racing at such a high level, and I have BPR Racing and Kern County Powersports to thank for that. I definitely try to bring a full career’s worth of experience to the team, bikes, and young teammates with whom I have the privilege of working. With any luck, the lessons learned from year one on the YZF-R9 platform will set us up to begin the 2026 season in a more competitive manner and show more of what BPR Racing can do.”
Joining Hayes in Supersport is Brenden Ketelsen, who will be aboard the #144 BPR Racing Yamaha YZF-R9 as he enters his first full season in MotoAmerica. Ketelsen is one of the nation’s fastest club racers. He is a multi-time AFM #1 plate holder and a dominant middleweight racer in CVMA at Chuckwalla Valley Raceway in Southern California. For years, Ketelsen has been going toe-to-toe with MotoAmerica talent at various club races in California, and typically winning.
“I’m extremely grateful for this opportunity with BPR Racing in the Supersport class,” Ketelsen said. “I have a great team around me to help maximize my chances for strong results, and I’m excited to show what I’m capable of.”
Competing aboard the #194 BPR Racing Yamaha YZF-R1 in Superbike Cup this year is Deion Campbell. The Californian earned his first MotoAmerica podium in the Stock 1000 Championship this past year at Mid-Ohio aboard a BPR Racing Yamaha R1, and he is looking to carry that momentum into the 2026 season while also kicking things up a few notches.
“Coming back to the BPR Racing team for the 2026 season is truly a blessing for me,” said Campbell. “Last season was a huge learning experience, and earning my first MotoAmerica podium was a moment I’ll never forget. I’m motivated to build on that, keep growing with the team, and see what we’re capable of in Superbike Cup.”
The fifth rider on the BPR Racing team is Andy DiBrino, who will be aboard the #62 BPR Racing Yamaha MT-09 in the Mission Super Hooligan National Championship as he competes alongside Kornbau on the popular, high-handlebar machines.
DiBrino finished on the podium in Super Hooligan last year, and he also set a new outright class lap record while earning the Superbike pole position at Ridge Motorsports Park. The Oregon native has been a Super Hooligan class regular since the series first began, and he is one of the series’ fan favorites.
“This is the kind of opportunity I’ve dreamt about my whole career,” DiBrino said. “To join an established team, and to have extremely accomplished teammates like Bryce and Josh who I can learn from, and who are so well-respected by their peers. I’ve raced with Bryce as far back as 2015 in our Superstock 600 days when MotoAmerica first began. I’ve always respected him as a racer, and the interaction I’ve had with him this off-season has made me respect him even more as I’ve seen the lengths he will go to for his team and customers. I’m confident the Yamaha MT-09 he’s prepared for me is going to be an absolute weapon in the class, and I look forward to putting it on the top step of the podium.”
The 2026 BPR Racing team is supported by Kern County Powersports, Yamaha Motor Corporation, Graves Motorsports, California Cubs, Dunlop Tires, Next Level Cycles, ASV Inventions, GBrakes, Superlite Sprockets, Evol Technology, TechSpec-USA, Zero Gravity, Öhlins USA, Kyle Racing, FT ECU, and Lieto Factory.
Today we get to the real meat and potatoes…the bikes!
Never mind that everybody’s still getting ready to start testing in Sepang – we’ve already got plenty to discuss. We already know a lot about these bikes, so it’s time we start looking at the hard questions. Questions like: Are they going to make the racing better? Will they be safer? Are they fun to watch? What’s their zodiac? And who might have to get ready for a frosty chat?
Just, you know, plenty of questions about the machines that define this sport. Let’s get some answers!
“MotoGP: A Frosty Chat,” the Oxley Bom MotoGP Podcast
Listen to the latest installment of Roadracing World MotoGP Editor Mat Oxley and former Grand Prix crew chief Peter Bom’s podcast here:
Swiss expertise meets Austrian racing excellence: from the 2026 season onward, MOTOREX and Red Bull KTM Factory Racing will enter a multi-year partnership in MotoGP™.
Under the agreement, MOTOREX will contribute its know-how in the field of high-performance lubricants, as well as clean and care products, through a structured development and technology exchange program with Red Bull KTM Factory Racing. These products help to deliver maximum performance, reliability, and protection under the extreme thermal, mechanical, and operational stresses encountered in MotoGP™, ensuring optimal efficiency and durability throughout the entire race weekend.
Taking the Partnership to MotoGP™
The long-standing relationship between MOTOREX and KTM dates back to 2003 and has grown steadily over more than two decades across numerous off-road and on-road racing disciplines.
Following the successful involvements in Moto2™ and Moto3™ with the Red Bull KTM Ajo teams – highlighted by the Moto3™ World Championship title won by José Antonio Rueda in 2025 – MOTOREX is now taking the next step into the fastest and most prestigious motorcycle contest. The Red Bull KTM rider line-up brings together one of the sport’s most promising young talents in Pedro Acosta and the experience of Brad Binder, combining fresh ambition with established top-level performance.
“MOTOREX has been a trusted partner of KTM for more than two decades, and bringing this long-standing cooperation into MotoGP™ is a natural step. Their technical expertise and racing know-how perfectly match our requirements, making them a strong partner at the highest level of competition.”
From Track to Technology
The partnership reflects a shared mindset rooted in engineering competence, teamwork, and a deep passion for racing. Insights gained on the racetrack will support competitive success while also contributing to the ongoing development of future motorsport technologies.
Andreas Vetter, MOTOREX Head of Powersports. Photo courtesy MOTOREX
Andreas Vetter, MOTOREX Head of Powersports:
“Partnering with Red Bull KTM Factory Racing in MotoGP™ is an exciting challenge for MOTOREX. This cooperation stands for shared values such as engineering excellence, innovation, and uncompromising performance, while allowing us to further develop our technologies under the most extreme racing conditions.”
With the start of the 2026 season, MOTOREX and Red Bull KTM Factory Racing embark on a new chapter, united by the pursuit of uncompromising performance.
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – Mees Promotions is happy to announce that tickets for the 2026 Progressive American Flat Track season events at the Lima Half-Mile powered by Parts Unlimited and the Springfield Mile powered by Parts Unlimited are officially on sale. Both legendary venues will host high-stakes doubleheader weekends featuring the return of the fan-favorite Mission Triple Challenge on the first of each event.
The Mission Triple Challenge brings an exciting shakeup to the schedule, turning up the heat with three races of escalating intensity and challenge points to determine each event’s ultimate victor. For the 2026 season, the Mission Triple Challenge will headline the opening day of action at both the Allen County Fairgrounds and the Illinois State Fairgrounds.
In a commitment to fan value, Mees Promotions is offering an automatic $20 discount for all 2-day event packages. Additionally, in a major update for the 2026 season, there will be no charge for parking at either the Lima or Springfield events.
Event Schedule and Ticketing
Lima Half-Milepowered by Parts Unlimited I & II (June 26-27, 2026)
Fans looking to elevate their weekend can choose the VIP Experience, which includes a reserved grandstand seat, access to a VIP room with a catered meal, five alcoholic beverages, and a pit pass.
For general admission and reserved seat holders, Pit Passes ($40) are available as a standalone add-on. Please note that pit passes are not included in standard tickets this year; fans can add them via the pop-up box after selecting their seats on the Tixr platform. For 2-day package holders, ensure both Day 1 and Day 2 add-ons are selected if you wish to have pit access for the full weekend.
Camping and Facilities
Lima Camping: Available on a first-come, first-served basis at the track for $50 per night. Sites include water and electric hookups.
Springfield Camping: Managed by the Illinois State Fairgrounds. For camping inquiries, fans must contact the facility directly at 217-524-9894.
For assistance with ticket purchases or seating questions, please contact Mees Promotions at 419-991-1491 (Lima), 217-632-0277 (Springfield), or via email at [email protected].
ANAHEIM, Calif. – The Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship hosted its third consecutive sold out crowd to open the 2026 campaign as the world’s best returned to the hallowed grounds of Angel Stadium for Round 3 of the Monster Energy SMX World Championship. After a high-profile move to Monster Energy Kawasaki during the offseason, Chase Sexton captured his first win for the decorated manufacturer following another captivating Main Event.
Chase Sexton Captures Maiden Kawasaki Victory Following Impressive Performance in Anaheim.
The battle for the 450SMX Class victory began with the Twisted Tea Suzuki Presented by Progressive Insurance of Jason Anderson leading the field for the holeshot, with Sexton alongside. Anderson soon asserted his hold of the lead as Honda HRC Progressive’s Hunter Lawrence, Sexton, and Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Eli Tomac, the winner of the opening two races and championship points leader, settled in behind the Suzuki rider. Sexton then found a groove and reclaimed second from Lawrence before tracking down Anderson.
A brief battle for the lead saw Sexton and Anderson trade passes before the Kawasaki rider got the upper hand and opened a multi-second lead over the field a little before the halfway point of the race. Behind them, Tomac passed Lawrence for third and set his sights on Anderson. The Suzuki rider fended off Tomac, which allowed Lawrence to retake third. Not long after, both Lawrence and Tomac made their way around Anderson, as the latter pushed Anderson off track. The top three remained unchanged the rest of the way as Sexton took his 17th career victory and first podium of the season by a margin of 3.3 seconds. It was the first win for Kawasaki since the 2022 season.
Tomac is now the lone rider to finish on the podium in each race thus far, with two wins and a third. He has an eight-point lead over Lawrence in the 450SMX Class standings, as Lawrence moved up to second on the heels of back-to-back runner-up finishes. Sexton moved into third, 13 points behind Tomac, while Progressive Insurance Cycle Gear Suzuki’s Ken Roczen dropped to fourth (-14) after he missed the podium for the first time in a valiant eighth-place finish that saw him fight back from 21st on the opening lap.
Monster Energy Kawasaki’s Chase Sexton broke through for his first win riding green with an impressive effort that put Kawasaki atop the podium for the first time since the 2022 season. Photo courtesy Feld Motor Sports, Inc
Chase Sexton – 1st Place – 450SMX Class:
“It’s been a long few months, going back to the [crash at the] Vegas SMX finale. That was not good for me. It’s hard to get back here [atop the podium], honestly. It’s been a journey. Even after the Heat Race tonight I was wondering what I was doing wrong and knew I needed to just go out there and do my laps. I strapped up for the Main Event and just rode solid and more within myself. I can’t say enough about the team and everything they’ve done to get us to this point. It’s good to put Kawi back on top.”
Honda HRC Progressive’s Hunter Lawrence finished in the runner-up spot for the second straight race and is now second in the championship. Photo courtesy Feld Motor Sports, Inc
Hunter Lawrence – 2nd Place – 450SMX Class:
“I just need a little more consistency throughout the day. Every time I went on the track I made a change to the bike, so every time I was learning the track again and trying to adapt to the bike. However, we are learning a lot and hopefully we can carry that through the rest of the series. I need to be better from the start through the beginning of the race. You could see I was a bit slow to get going, but I picked it up towards the end.”
After opening the season with back-to-back wins, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Eli Tomac settled for third at A2 but still increased his points lead. Photo courtesy Feld Motor Sports, Inc
Eli Tomac – 3rd Place – 450SMX Class:
“The big picture [championship] is great. That race was a whole lot of everything. A lot of offense, a lot of defense. I tried some moves and got passed, and vice versa. I’m happy to defend that podium spot, it was important for me, but that was a very intense race. Overall, I’m happy with the finish and looking forward to next weekend.”
450SMX Class Podium (left to right) Eli Tomac, Chase Sexton, and Hunter Lawrence. Photo courtesy Feld Motor Sports, Inc
Haiden Deegan Claims Back-to-Back Western Divisional 250SMX Wins.
The Western Divisional 250SMX Class once again saw the battle for the win come down to a pair of Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing teammates in Michael Mosiman and Haiden Deegan. Mosiman led the field through the first turn for the holeshot, ahead of Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki’s Cameron McAdoo, ClubMX Yamaha’s Max Vohland, and Deegan. As Mosiman secured control of the race early on, Deegan charged up to second. From there, the duo pulled away from the field and paced one another for most of the 15 Minute + 1 Lap race. With three-and-a-half minutes to go Deegan closed in on Mosiman and made quick work of a pass for the lead. With the clear track, Deegan quickly moved more than five seconds clear of the field and easily claimed back-to-back wins to officially take hold of the early title fight.
Deegan took his ninth career win 8.5 seconds ahead of Mosiman, who now has third and second place finishes the past two races. Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s Ryder DiFrancesco came out on top of a tight battle with McAdoo for DiFrancesco’s second career podium result, his first coming at the Anaheim opener just two weeks ago.
Deegan has a nine-point lead over Mosiman in the Western Divisional standings. Their Star Yamaha teammate Max Anstie dropped from second to third, 10 points out of the lead, after his worst result of the season thus far in sixth.
Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Haiden Deegan showed patience in the Western Divisional 250SMX Main Event, with a late pass on teammate Michael Mosiman to earn Deegan’s second straight win and add to his points lead. Photo courtesy Feld Motor Sports, Inc
Haiden Deegan – 1st Place – Western Divisional 250SMX Class:
“That was amazing. Good ride. Solid ride. I need to give it up to [Mosiman], when people put in that extra work a lot of the time it goes unnoticed. He’s the only guy I see out there putting in the extra effort. I gotta give him credit and that’s what makes him such a tough competitor.”
Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Michael Mosiman is off to the best start of his career and led the majority of the Main Event en route to a runner-up finish and his second consecutive podium result. Photo courtesy Feld Motor Sports, Inc
Michael Mosiman – 2nd Place – Western Divisional 250SMX Class:
“It feels great [to be on the podium]. Every time I go to the gate I look up at the stands, see all the fans, and make sure I appreciate the moment. We put in so much work just to be able to perform and when that happens it’s just an amazing feeling. I’m stoked on the race and stoked on my start. Whenever you can get a holeshot that makes a world of difference.”
Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s Ryder DiFrancesco rode to another podium finish inside Angel Stadium, earning his second-ever top-three finish two weeks after he did it for the first time at the season opener. Photo courtesy Feld Motor Sports, Inc
Ryder DiFrancesco – 3rd Place – Western Divisional 250SMX Class:
“I knew if I could keep [McAdoo] close that I could get him. It didn’t happen [initially] but I figured I could wear him down and get it done at the end. I guess Anaheim is my place. It’s close to home.”
Western Divisional 250SMX Class Podium (left to right) Michael Mosiman, Haiden Deegan, and Ryder DiFrancesco. Photo courtesy Feld Motor Sports, Inc
Accompanying the action of the 450SMX and 250SMX classes was the first race of SMX Next – Supercross, featuring the most talented and high-profile A and B class prospects in amateur motocross. The race featured a hand-selected field of 22 racers and was dominated by young Australian Kayden Minear, who went wire-to-wire in his first-ever Supercross race. The 18-year-old was never challenged throughout the 8 Minute + 1 Lap race and spearheaded an impressive sweep of the podium by Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing. Minear took the checkered flag 1.7 seconds ahead of 16-year-old Caden Dudney, who was followed by 18-year-old Landen Gordon. Monster Energy Kawasaki Team Green’s Vincent Wey, the 16-year-old son of former SMX star Nick Wey, was in podium contention throughout the race, but ultimately settled for fourth.
The first race of SMX Next – Supercross was dominated by Australian Kayden Minear (99), who led a podium sweep for Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing with a dominant wire-to-wire effort. Photo courtesy Feld Motor Sports, Inc
SMX Next Podium (left to right) Landen Gordon, Kayden Minear, and Caden Dudney. Photo courtesy Feld Motor Sports, Inc
The Anaheim 2 race also signified the launch of the Love Moto Stop Cancer text-to-donate campaign benefitting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital for the 2026 season. This marks the landmark 10th year of the SMX community’s support of St. Jude, featuring a new, exclusive design for the Love Moto Stop Cancer t-shirt. The only way for fans to get the shirt is by donating to St. Jude and texting SUPER to 785-833. More information can be found at the St. Jude page on SupercrossLIVE.com.
In 2025, the SMX community raised over $650,000 and surpassed $3 million raised for the children of St. Jude. When fans and the industry support St. Jude, it helps make cures possible for kids with cancer. Together with St. Jude, SMX won’t stop fighting until no child dies from cancer.
Text SUPER to 785-833 to donate to the LOVE MOTO STOP CANCER campaign benefitting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
The Monster Energy SMX World Championship and Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship will continue next Saturday with the fourth race of the season and the first outside the state of California as Houston’s NRG Stadium welcomes the world’s best on January 31. Live broadcast coverage on Peacock will begin at 1 p.m. ET with Race Day Live, followed by the Gate Drop at 7 p.m. ET. Additionally, a domestic Spanish language broadcast is available on Peacock while international viewers can choose from dedicated English, French, and Spanish broadcasts via SMX Video Pass (www.SMXVideoPass.com).
All 17 rounds of the 2026 Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship and 11 rounds of the Pro Motocross Championship are on sale. Tickets for the SMX World Championship Playoff Rounds and Final will go on pre-sale Tuesday, Jan. 27, with general tickets on-sale to the public on Tuesday, Feb. 3 at Supermotocross.com. Saturday FanFest will take place at all postseason races, Friday FanFest and camping will be available in Columbus and Ridgedale, additional details to follow.
For information about the Monster Energy SMX World Championship, please visit www.SuperMotocross.com and be sure to follow all of the new SMX social media channels for exclusive content and additional information on the latest news:
Ducati New York, in partnership with Warhorse HSBK Racing and the Warhorse Group, is proud to announce the official schedule for the highly anticipated 2026 Warhorse Track Day Series. Returning to the legendary “Tricky Triangle,” the series offers riders of all skill levels the unique opportunity to push their limits on the asphalt of Pocono Raceway.
The 2026 series will feature three premier full-day events:
● Monday, May 25, 2026 (Season Opener)
● Monday, June 29, 2026
● Monday, September 21, 2026 (Season Finale)
Designed to bridge the gap between street riding and professional racing, the Warhorse Track Day Series provides a controlled, high-octane environment where enthusiasts can learn from the best. The events are distinguished by the presence of Warhorse HSBK Racing’s professional MotoAmerica staff and riders, offering participants world-class insights into apexes, body position, and track management.
Experience the “Warhorse” Difference
Unlike standard open track days, the Warhorse Series is an immersive moto-lifestyle experience. Participants will enjoy:
● Pro-Level Coaching: Guidance from professional racers and certified coaches for Novice, Intermediate, and Advanced groups.
● The Warhorse Experience: Access to the Warhorse HSBK Racing team infrastructure,
offering a behind-the-scenes look at a championship-winning MotoAmerica team.
● Exclusive Access: Riding the challenging and technical Southeast Option course
configurations at Pocono Raceway.
● Full Support: On-site photographers, fully catered lunch, and technical support to
ensure a safe and memorable day.
Registration and Requirements
Tickets for the Warhorse Track Day Series are available soon. Spaces are strictly limited to ensure low track density and maximum riding time.
● Pricing: Early bird packages will be available via Eventbrite and the Ducati New York
website beginning Feb 13th.
● Requirements: Events are open to all motorcycle brands, though Ducati ownership is
celebrated. Full track gear (one or two-piece leathers, gauntlet gloves, full-face helmet,
and race boots) is mandatory.
For more information, ticket purchases, and technical requirements, please visit
www.ducatinyc.com or contact Ducati New York directly.
Racers Elisa Gendron-Belen and Levi Badie exchanged wedding vows in Upstate New York on Saturday, January 17, 2026 after a short engagement.
The couple are both MotoAmerica licensed racers who competed as teammates in the SC Project Twins Cups class for Karns Performance during the 2025 season.
Elisa and Levi met in parc fermé at Barber Motorsports Park after their Junior Cup race in 2023.
The FBI has officially apprehended Ryan James Wedding, a former Olympic snowboarder and Canadian national, who was added to the FBI’s Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list in March 2025. Wedding is the sixth Ten Most Wanted Fugitive to be captured within the last year, and the 500th capture of an FBI Most Wanted Fugitive since the inception of the list 75 years ago.
What looks like Ducati MotoGP racebikes ridden by Andrea Dovizioso, Loris Capirossi, and Jorge Lorenzo, with a Marc Marquez Moto2 bike in the background. FBI photo.
“This is a huge day for a safer North America, and the world, and a message that those who break our laws and harm our citizens will be brought to justice,” said FBI Director Kash Patel in a post on social media.
Wedding was charged for allegedly running and participating in a transnational drug-trafficking operation that routinely shipped hundreds of kilograms of cocaine from Colombia, through Mexico and Southern California to the U.S. and Canada. Wedding was also wanted for allegedly orchestrating multiple murders of rivals and innocent victims, including a government witness.
In the wake of kicking off its year-long 125th anniversary celebration, Indian Motorcycle today unveiled the 2026 Indian Chief Vintage – honoring its heritage by reimagining a timeless classic into a new icon for today’s riders. Inspired by the 1940s Chief, its flowing valanced fenders and unmistakable silhouette pay tribute to Indian Motorcycle’s roots, while the Thunderstroke motor delivers the power and presence that set today’s standard. Built with thoughtful, American craftsmanship and obsessive attention to detail, Chief Vintage reflects Indian Motorcycle’s Never Finished spirit, defined by fearlessness, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to provide riders the choice they’ve always deserved in American motorcycling.
A striking tribute to an American classic from the heart of the golden age of motorcycling, the new Chief Vintage fuses classic design with power, precision, and innovation that has defined the brand for 125 years. More than a motorcycle, the 2026 Chief Vintage is a legend reborn for the road ahead.
“Indian Chiefs from the 1940s remain one of the most recognizable and celebrated motorcycles in American history,” said Ola Stenegärd, Design Director for Indian Motorcycle. “With its iconic V-Twin engine, valanced fenders, and unparalleled reliability, the Chief set a standard for performance and design that resonates today. It represents the spirit of Indian Motorcycle – bold, timeless, and always pushing forward.”
Honoring its iconic lineage, the Chief Vintage seamlessly blends a timeless design with modern performance and technology. Celebrating its 125th anniversary, Chief Vintage stands as a statement: The legacy of Indian Motorcycle isn’t a finish line, it’s a launchpad.
Timeless Design
With sculpted lines that pay homage to post-war classics, Chief Vintage looks as though it rolled straight off the original Springfield, Mass., production line in the 1940s. Its unmistakable Indian Motorcycle valanced front fender is complemented by the iconic lit headdress ornament, while a narrow rear subframe and Vintage Handlebars reference the era’s timeless designs. The bike’s Vintage Solo Seat is reimagined for superior comfort and ergonomic support, while wire-spoke wheels complete the timeless American design.
Featuring heritage in every detail, the finish on the Chief Vintage’s Thunderstroke engine captures the spirit of 1940s craftsmanship with non-machined black cylinders and silver-painted cylinder heads and pushrod tubes. These painted components and non-machined fins pay tribute to the raw aluminum finishes found on the original Chief models.
Collectively, the valanced fenders, Vintage Solo Seat, Vintage Handlebars, engine details and wire wheels are not just retro touches: they’re the design cues that defined an era.
Modern Performance & Technology
Chief Vintage delivers modern performance and technology wrapped in heritage. Powering the Chief Vintage is Indian Motorcycle’s air-cooled Thunderstroke 116 V-Twin engine, delivering 120 ft-lbs of torque for effortless passing power in every gear. Three selectable ride modes (Tour, Standard, and Sport) allow riders to tailor throttle response to their preference for a personalized experience.
Delivering industry-leading technology, Chief Vintage is equipped with Indian Motorcycle’s 4-inch Round Touchscreen Display powered by RIDE COMMAND. The 2026 system features an all-new software, improving startup time and loading times by approximately 25 percent. The new software, now available for all Scout and Chief models with the 4-inch Round Touchscreen Display powered by RIDE COMMAND, introduces Indian Motorcycle’s App Enhanced Navigation, delivering seamless integration between a rider’s mobile phone and their on-bike display. With App Enhanced Navigation, riders can intuitively search for destinations on their phone via platforms like Google Maps, Waze and Apple Maps and send them directly via Bluetooth® LE to their bike’s display.
Riders can operate Indian Motorcycle’s 4-inch Round Touchscreen Display powered by RIDE COMMAND via hand controls or the full-color IPS touchscreen. The display offers multiple interface options, including two gauge configurations, detailed bike and ride information, and turn-by-turn navigation with connected services, such as live weather and traffic overlays. If using a wireless helmet communicator, riders can control their music within the RIDE COMMAND system once their phone is paired via Bluetooth® or USB. Riders can also access phone information, including recent calls, contacts, number pad and text message history. When connected, incoming calls will appear and can be accepted or declined directly through the RIDE COMMAND system.
Authentic Accessories
Comfort & Style
Launching with Chief Vintage is a curated selection of premium accessories designed to elevate every ride. Riders can equip front Highway Bars for low-speed tip-over protection and add Highway Bar Lower Closeouts to reduce wind buffeting and shield against road debris. The 17.8-inch Quick Release Low Windshield delivers added wind protection while maintaining a sleek, low-profile aesthetic. Prioritizing practicality and comfort, Indian Motorcycle’s durable, weather-resistant Vinyl Saddlebags provide more than five gallons of storage per bag. Complementing the collection, select Premium Handle Grips elevate both style and tactile feel, while available rider floorboards offer a wider, more stable platform for increased comfort and control.
For two-up riding and all-day comfort, riders can pair the Classic Solo Seat with a matching Passenger Pillion. A Passenger Touring Backrest Pad can also be added, enhancing comfort and making two-up riding more accessible—all without compromising the bike’s classic styling.
Performance & Technology
Chief Vintage includes a range of premium accessories designed to elevate both performance and rider safety. The Pathfinder 5¾-inch Adaptive LED headlight delivers exceptional illumination, automatically adjusting for turns and providing an added layer of safety during night riding. The precision-engineered Chief Stage 1 Slip-On Exhaust produces a deep, powerful tone while improving acceleration and throttle response. Complementing the exhaust, the slash cut tips add bold visual flair and enhance the exhaust growl, with the Thunderstroke Stage 1 High-Flow Air Intake improving engine breathing for smoother, more responsive power delivery.
Starting at $19,999, the 2026 Indian Chief Vintage is available in Black Metallic and Indian Motorcycle Red and will be arriving at dealerships in March.
Kawasaki looks to be building momentum in the right direction as the Jerez test gave their rider a chance to get a feeling with his new bike
With the two days of testing at the Circuito de Jerez – Angel Nieto, Andalucia, all wrapped up, American rider Garrett Gerloff (Kawasaki WorldSBK Team) has wind in his sails as the 2026 MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship season approaches with a new bike and new crew chief in his garage. The #31 took to the track on both days of testing, and while poor weather prevented a more comprehensive shakedown, early indications sing the praises of his new bike.
A STEP IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION: “I got to feel a bit of a difference on the aero package from last year to this year”
After taking time to disconnect and recharge his batteries, the Texan had been chomping at the bit to get rolling in 2026 and at last get his first feelings with the 2026 ZX-10RR Ninja. Jerez presented itself as that opportunity, but rainy conditions on Day 1 severely limited riders. While Day 2 provided a slight window around midday where the track had dried off slightly, Gerloff was still held to a cumulative 49 laps, his fastest a 1’40.445s time to place him 11th on the timesheets
On the limited running at Jerez, the Texan said: “It’s a bummer, man! I’ve been waiting two months to get out here and ride this new bike. I’ve been really looking forward to it, but the weather’s been horrible the whole time. Frustrating for myself and the whole team. In the end, we got 20 laps in the dry-ish; it was like half-wet, half-dry, it was sketchy, and a lot of guys crashed in the water at Turn 5. Luckily, we stayed up on two wheels. I felt a bit of a difference in the aero package from last year to this year. That was positive. In the end, it wasn’t enough laps to get a full feeling for everything. We still need more time.”
FRONT END FEELING: “I had the front a bit more planted on the ground, and that’s what we were all hoping for”
The new Kawasaki bike’s most distinctive upgrade is the addition of canards on either side of the fairing to provide additional downforce, aiding grip at the front. A lack of feeling with his front tyre was something that Gerloff has mentioned bothering him throughout the 2025 season, and now with his new bike delivered and making its debut on track, the American has an ace up his sleeve; he just needs to hope for better weather to be able to test its full potential
Despite limited running, Gerloff was able to give some initial thoughts on the new-for-2025 aero package on the ZX-10RR machine: “I felt like I was able to turn better in the faster corners. I had the front a bit more planted on the ground, and that’s what we were all hoping for. That’s something that’s good, but we need to know what it’s like when it’s hotter, and the track has less grip, because if the track’s got more grip than it did last year, because of a lower temperature, I’m going to have better turning anyway. It’s like trying to cancel out the variables and make sure we’re making progress forward. So far, I think that’s the case. That was the biggest place. I only got 20 laps, and let’s call six of those in and out laps, so they don’t really count! I didn’t get a whole lot of time at all to do back-to-backs. We only used the new aero package on Thursday; we didn’t get to compare the old to the new. Really still in the dark about a lot of things.”
BPR Racing team owner Bryce Kornbau, seen here aboard a Yamaha YZF-R1 in 2025, will switch to a BPR Yamaha MT-09 as he competes in the 2026 Mission Super Hooligan National Championship. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
BPR Racing team owner Bryce Kornbau has announced that he will have a five-rider team competing in MotoAmerica for the 2026 season, with official support provided by Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A.
Kornbau himself will be aboard the #17 BPR Racing Yamaha MT-09 as he competes for the first time in the Mission Super Hooligan National Championship. A former MotoAmerica class champion aboard a Yamaha, Kornbau is also a formidable race bike builder and business entrepreneur. In addition to racing, managing the BPR Racing team, and building and tuning bikes for racers, Kornbau owns Kern County Powersports, a multi-line dealership and service center in Bakersfield, California, that sells Yamaha as well as multiple other brands of street and off-road motorcycles, ATVs, side-by-sides, personal watercraft, power equipment, and more.
“I am very excited to be able to be back in the MotoAmerica paddock for another season as a racer, and a team owner,” Kornbau said. “I have really enjoyed developing the Yamaha YZF-R9, and I am looking forward to developing the Yamaha MT-09, as well. As the years go on with the expansion of my race team, I am excited about this new venture into the Super Hooligan class, along with spending more time helping the team out from a technical side and as a development rider.”
Returning to BPR Racing in Supersport on the #4 BPR Racing Yamaha YZF-R9 is Josh Hayes, four-time AMA Superbike Champion and 2025 MotoAmerica Supersport race winner. Hayes continues to show his determination and relentlessness on the track, along with his poise and experience. As one would imagine, the ‘Mississippi Madman’ brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the team, and he has been instrumental in the development of the YZF-R9 for BPR Racing.
Hayes commented, “Holy smokes, I still get to go racing! I’ve really felt honored to be able to keep racing at such a high level, and I have BPR Racing and Kern County Powersports to thank for that. I definitely try to bring a full career’s worth of experience to the team, bikes, and young teammates with whom I have the privilege of working. With any luck, the lessons learned from year one on the YZF-R9 platform will set us up to begin the 2026 season in a more competitive manner and show more of what BPR Racing can do.”
Joining Hayes in Supersport is Brenden Ketelsen, who will be aboard the #144 BPR Racing Yamaha YZF-R9 as he enters his first full season in MotoAmerica. Ketelsen is one of the nation’s fastest club racers. He is a multi-time AFM #1 plate holder and a dominant middleweight racer in CVMA at Chuckwalla Valley Raceway in Southern California. For years, Ketelsen has been going toe-to-toe with MotoAmerica talent at various club races in California, and typically winning.
“I’m extremely grateful for this opportunity with BPR Racing in the Supersport class,” Ketelsen said. “I have a great team around me to help maximize my chances for strong results, and I’m excited to show what I’m capable of.”
Competing aboard the #194 BPR Racing Yamaha YZF-R1 in Superbike Cup this year is Deion Campbell. The Californian earned his first MotoAmerica podium in the Stock 1000 Championship this past year at Mid-Ohio aboard a BPR Racing Yamaha R1, and he is looking to carry that momentum into the 2026 season while also kicking things up a few notches.
“Coming back to the BPR Racing team for the 2026 season is truly a blessing for me,” said Campbell. “Last season was a huge learning experience, and earning my first MotoAmerica podium was a moment I’ll never forget. I’m motivated to build on that, keep growing with the team, and see what we’re capable of in Superbike Cup.”
The fifth rider on the BPR Racing team is Andy DiBrino, who will be aboard the #62 BPR Racing Yamaha MT-09 in the Mission Super Hooligan National Championship as he competes alongside Kornbau on the popular, high-handlebar machines.
DiBrino finished on the podium in Super Hooligan last year, and he also set a new outright class lap record while earning the Superbike pole position at Ridge Motorsports Park. The Oregon native has been a Super Hooligan class regular since the series first began, and he is one of the series’ fan favorites.
“This is the kind of opportunity I’ve dreamt about my whole career,” DiBrino said. “To join an established team, and to have extremely accomplished teammates like Bryce and Josh who I can learn from, and who are so well-respected by their peers. I’ve raced with Bryce as far back as 2015 in our Superstock 600 days when MotoAmerica first began. I’ve always respected him as a racer, and the interaction I’ve had with him this off-season has made me respect him even more as I’ve seen the lengths he will go to for his team and customers. I’m confident the Yamaha MT-09 he’s prepared for me is going to be an absolute weapon in the class, and I look forward to putting it on the top step of the podium.”
The 2026 BPR Racing team is supported by Kern County Powersports, Yamaha Motor Corporation, Graves Motorsports, California Cubs, Dunlop Tires, Next Level Cycles, ASV Inventions, GBrakes, Superlite Sprockets, Evol Technology, TechSpec-USA, Zero Gravity, Öhlins USA, Kyle Racing, FT ECU, and Lieto Factory.
Two-time MotoGP World Champion Francesco Bagnaia testing at Circuito de Valencia, November 2025. Photo by Michael Gougis.
We’ve talked about the riders.
We’ve yapped about the manufacturers.
And today?
Today we get to the real meat and potatoes…the bikes!
Never mind that everybody’s still getting ready to start testing in Sepang – we’ve already got plenty to discuss. We already know a lot about these bikes, so it’s time we start looking at the hard questions. Questions like: Are they going to make the racing better? Will they be safer? Are they fun to watch? What’s their zodiac? And who might have to get ready for a frosty chat?
Just, you know, plenty of questions about the machines that define this sport. Let’s get some answers!
“MotoGP: A Frosty Chat,” the Oxley Bom MotoGP Podcast
Listen to the latest installment of Roadracing World MotoGP Editor Mat Oxley and former Grand Prix crew chief Peter Bom’s podcast here:
Pedro Acosta (37). Photo courtesy Red Bull KTM Team.
Swiss expertise meets Austrian racing excellence: from the 2026 season onward, MOTOREX and Red Bull KTM Factory Racing will enter a multi-year partnership in MotoGP™.
Under the agreement, MOTOREX will contribute its know-how in the field of high-performance lubricants, as well as clean and care products, through a structured development and technology exchange program with Red Bull KTM Factory Racing. These products help to deliver maximum performance, reliability, and protection under the extreme thermal, mechanical, and operational stresses encountered in MotoGP™, ensuring optimal efficiency and durability throughout the entire race weekend.
Taking the Partnership to MotoGP™
The long-standing relationship between MOTOREX and KTM dates back to 2003 and has grown steadily over more than two decades across numerous off-road and on-road racing disciplines.
Following the successful involvements in Moto2™ and Moto3™ with the Red Bull KTM Ajo teams – highlighted by the Moto3™ World Championship title won by José Antonio Rueda in 2025 – MOTOREX is now taking the next step into the fastest and most prestigious motorcycle contest. The Red Bull KTM rider line-up brings together one of the sport’s most promising young talents in Pedro Acosta and the experience of Brad Binder, combining fresh ambition with established top-level performance.
“MOTOREX has been a trusted partner of KTM for more than two decades, and bringing this long-standing cooperation into MotoGP™ is a natural step. Their technical expertise and racing know-how perfectly match our requirements, making them a strong partner at the highest level of competition.”
From Track to Technology
The partnership reflects a shared mindset rooted in engineering competence, teamwork, and a deep passion for racing. Insights gained on the racetrack will support competitive success while also contributing to the ongoing development of future motorsport technologies.
Andreas Vetter, MOTOREX Head of Powersports. Photo courtesy MOTOREX
Andreas Vetter, MOTOREX Head of Powersports:
“Partnering with Red Bull KTM Factory Racing in MotoGP™ is an exciting challenge for MOTOREX. This cooperation stands for shared values such as engineering excellence, innovation, and uncompromising performance, while allowing us to further develop our technologies under the most extreme racing conditions.”
With the start of the 2026 season, MOTOREX and Red Bull KTM Factory Racing embark on a new chapter, united by the pursuit of uncompromising performance.
Jeffrey Carver Jr. (123) leads the field at the Springfield Mile. Photo by Tim Lester / courtesy AMA Pro Racing.
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – Mees Promotions is happy to announce that tickets for the 2026 Progressive American Flat Track season events at the Lima Half-Mile powered by Parts Unlimited and the Springfield Mile powered by Parts Unlimited are officially on sale. Both legendary venues will host high-stakes doubleheader weekends featuring the return of the fan-favorite Mission Triple Challenge on the first of each event.
The Mission Triple Challenge brings an exciting shakeup to the schedule, turning up the heat with three races of escalating intensity and challenge points to determine each event’s ultimate victor. For the 2026 season, the Mission Triple Challenge will headline the opening day of action at both the Allen County Fairgrounds and the Illinois State Fairgrounds.
In a commitment to fan value, Mees Promotions is offering an automatic $20 discount for all 2-day event packages. Additionally, in a major update for the 2026 season, there will be no charge for parking at either the Lima or Springfield events.
Event Schedule and Ticketing
Lima Half-Milepowered by Parts Unlimited I & II (June 26-27, 2026)
Fans looking to elevate their weekend can choose the VIP Experience, which includes a reserved grandstand seat, access to a VIP room with a catered meal, five alcoholic beverages, and a pit pass.
For general admission and reserved seat holders, Pit Passes ($40) are available as a standalone add-on. Please note that pit passes are not included in standard tickets this year; fans can add them via the pop-up box after selecting their seats on the Tixr platform. For 2-day package holders, ensure both Day 1 and Day 2 add-ons are selected if you wish to have pit access for the full weekend.
Camping and Facilities
Lima Camping: Available on a first-come, first-served basis at the track for $50 per night. Sites include water and electric hookups.
Springfield Camping: Managed by the Illinois State Fairgrounds. For camping inquiries, fans must contact the facility directly at 217-524-9894.
For assistance with ticket purchases or seating questions, please contact Mees Promotions at 419-991-1491 (Lima), 217-632-0277 (Springfield), or via email at [email protected].
A third consecutive sellout crowd headlined the return of the
2026 Monster Energy Supercross season to Anaheim. Photo courtesy Feld Motor Sports, Inc
ANAHEIM, Calif. – The Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship hosted its third consecutive sold out crowd to open the 2026 campaign as the world’s best returned to the hallowed grounds of Angel Stadium for Round 3 of the Monster Energy SMX World Championship. After a high-profile move to Monster Energy Kawasaki during the offseason, Chase Sexton captured his first win for the decorated manufacturer following another captivating Main Event.
Chase Sexton Captures Maiden Kawasaki Victory Following Impressive Performance in Anaheim.
The battle for the 450SMX Class victory began with the Twisted Tea Suzuki Presented by Progressive Insurance of Jason Anderson leading the field for the holeshot, with Sexton alongside. Anderson soon asserted his hold of the lead as Honda HRC Progressive’s Hunter Lawrence, Sexton, and Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Eli Tomac, the winner of the opening two races and championship points leader, settled in behind the Suzuki rider. Sexton then found a groove and reclaimed second from Lawrence before tracking down Anderson.
A brief battle for the lead saw Sexton and Anderson trade passes before the Kawasaki rider got the upper hand and opened a multi-second lead over the field a little before the halfway point of the race. Behind them, Tomac passed Lawrence for third and set his sights on Anderson. The Suzuki rider fended off Tomac, which allowed Lawrence to retake third. Not long after, both Lawrence and Tomac made their way around Anderson, as the latter pushed Anderson off track. The top three remained unchanged the rest of the way as Sexton took his 17th career victory and first podium of the season by a margin of 3.3 seconds. It was the first win for Kawasaki since the 2022 season.
Tomac is now the lone rider to finish on the podium in each race thus far, with two wins and a third. He has an eight-point lead over Lawrence in the 450SMX Class standings, as Lawrence moved up to second on the heels of back-to-back runner-up finishes. Sexton moved into third, 13 points behind Tomac, while Progressive Insurance Cycle Gear Suzuki’s Ken Roczen dropped to fourth (-14) after he missed the podium for the first time in a valiant eighth-place finish that saw him fight back from 21st on the opening lap.
Monster Energy Kawasaki’s Chase Sexton broke through for his first win riding green with an impressive effort that put Kawasaki atop the podium for the first time since the 2022 season. Photo courtesy Feld Motor Sports, Inc
Chase Sexton – 1st Place – 450SMX Class:
“It’s been a long few months, going back to the [crash at the] Vegas SMX finale. That was not good for me. It’s hard to get back here [atop the podium], honestly. It’s been a journey. Even after the Heat Race tonight I was wondering what I was doing wrong and knew I needed to just go out there and do my laps. I strapped up for the Main Event and just rode solid and more within myself. I can’t say enough about the team and everything they’ve done to get us to this point. It’s good to put Kawi back on top.”
Honda HRC Progressive’s Hunter Lawrence finished in the runner-up spot for the second straight race and is now second in the championship. Photo courtesy Feld Motor Sports, Inc
Hunter Lawrence – 2nd Place – 450SMX Class:
“I just need a little more consistency throughout the day. Every time I went on the track I made a change to the bike, so every time I was learning the track again and trying to adapt to the bike. However, we are learning a lot and hopefully we can carry that through the rest of the series. I need to be better from the start through the beginning of the race. You could see I was a bit slow to get going, but I picked it up towards the end.”
After opening the season with back-to-back wins, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Eli Tomac settled for third at A2 but still increased his points lead. Photo courtesy Feld Motor Sports, Inc
Eli Tomac – 3rd Place – 450SMX Class:
“The big picture [championship] is great. That race was a whole lot of everything. A lot of offense, a lot of defense. I tried some moves and got passed, and vice versa. I’m happy to defend that podium spot, it was important for me, but that was a very intense race. Overall, I’m happy with the finish and looking forward to next weekend.”
450SMX Class Podium (left to right) Eli Tomac, Chase Sexton, and Hunter Lawrence. Photo courtesy Feld Motor Sports, Inc
Haiden Deegan Claims Back-to-Back Western Divisional 250SMX Wins.
The Western Divisional 250SMX Class once again saw the battle for the win come down to a pair of Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing teammates in Michael Mosiman and Haiden Deegan. Mosiman led the field through the first turn for the holeshot, ahead of Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki’s Cameron McAdoo, ClubMX Yamaha’s Max Vohland, and Deegan. As Mosiman secured control of the race early on, Deegan charged up to second. From there, the duo pulled away from the field and paced one another for most of the 15 Minute + 1 Lap race. With three-and-a-half minutes to go Deegan closed in on Mosiman and made quick work of a pass for the lead. With the clear track, Deegan quickly moved more than five seconds clear of the field and easily claimed back-to-back wins to officially take hold of the early title fight.
Deegan took his ninth career win 8.5 seconds ahead of Mosiman, who now has third and second place finishes the past two races. Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s Ryder DiFrancesco came out on top of a tight battle with McAdoo for DiFrancesco’s second career podium result, his first coming at the Anaheim opener just two weeks ago.
Deegan has a nine-point lead over Mosiman in the Western Divisional standings. Their Star Yamaha teammate Max Anstie dropped from second to third, 10 points out of the lead, after his worst result of the season thus far in sixth.
Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Haiden Deegan showed patience in the Western Divisional 250SMX Main Event, with a late pass on teammate Michael Mosiman to earn Deegan’s second straight win and add to his points lead. Photo courtesy Feld Motor Sports, Inc
Haiden Deegan – 1st Place – Western Divisional 250SMX Class:
“That was amazing. Good ride. Solid ride. I need to give it up to [Mosiman], when people put in that extra work a lot of the time it goes unnoticed. He’s the only guy I see out there putting in the extra effort. I gotta give him credit and that’s what makes him such a tough competitor.”
Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Michael Mosiman is off to the best start of his career and led the majority of the Main Event en route to a runner-up finish and his second consecutive podium result. Photo courtesy Feld Motor Sports, Inc
Michael Mosiman – 2nd Place – Western Divisional 250SMX Class:
“It feels great [to be on the podium]. Every time I go to the gate I look up at the stands, see all the fans, and make sure I appreciate the moment. We put in so much work just to be able to perform and when that happens it’s just an amazing feeling. I’m stoked on the race and stoked on my start. Whenever you can get a holeshot that makes a world of difference.”
Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s Ryder DiFrancesco rode to another podium finish inside Angel Stadium, earning his second-ever top-three finish two weeks after he did it for the first time at the season opener. Photo courtesy Feld Motor Sports, Inc
Ryder DiFrancesco – 3rd Place – Western Divisional 250SMX Class:
“I knew if I could keep [McAdoo] close that I could get him. It didn’t happen [initially] but I figured I could wear him down and get it done at the end. I guess Anaheim is my place. It’s close to home.”
Western Divisional 250SMX Class Podium (left to right) Michael Mosiman, Haiden Deegan, and Ryder DiFrancesco. Photo courtesy Feld Motor Sports, Inc
Accompanying the action of the 450SMX and 250SMX classes was the first race of SMX Next – Supercross, featuring the most talented and high-profile A and B class prospects in amateur motocross. The race featured a hand-selected field of 22 racers and was dominated by young Australian Kayden Minear, who went wire-to-wire in his first-ever Supercross race. The 18-year-old was never challenged throughout the 8 Minute + 1 Lap race and spearheaded an impressive sweep of the podium by Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing. Minear took the checkered flag 1.7 seconds ahead of 16-year-old Caden Dudney, who was followed by 18-year-old Landen Gordon. Monster Energy Kawasaki Team Green’s Vincent Wey, the 16-year-old son of former SMX star Nick Wey, was in podium contention throughout the race, but ultimately settled for fourth.
The first race of SMX Next – Supercross was dominated by Australian Kayden Minear (99), who led a podium sweep for Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing with a dominant wire-to-wire effort. Photo courtesy Feld Motor Sports, Inc
SMX Next Podium (left to right) Landen Gordon, Kayden Minear, and Caden Dudney. Photo courtesy Feld Motor Sports, Inc
The Anaheim 2 race also signified the launch of the Love Moto Stop Cancer text-to-donate campaign benefitting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital for the 2026 season. This marks the landmark 10th year of the SMX community’s support of St. Jude, featuring a new, exclusive design for the Love Moto Stop Cancer t-shirt. The only way for fans to get the shirt is by donating to St. Jude and texting SUPER to 785-833. More information can be found at the St. Jude page on SupercrossLIVE.com.
In 2025, the SMX community raised over $650,000 and surpassed $3 million raised for the children of St. Jude. When fans and the industry support St. Jude, it helps make cures possible for kids with cancer. Together with St. Jude, SMX won’t stop fighting until no child dies from cancer.
Text SUPER to 785-833 to donate to the LOVE MOTO STOP CANCER campaign benefitting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
The Monster Energy SMX World Championship and Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship will continue next Saturday with the fourth race of the season and the first outside the state of California as Houston’s NRG Stadium welcomes the world’s best on January 31. Live broadcast coverage on Peacock will begin at 1 p.m. ET with Race Day Live, followed by the Gate Drop at 7 p.m. ET. Additionally, a domestic Spanish language broadcast is available on Peacock while international viewers can choose from dedicated English, French, and Spanish broadcasts via SMX Video Pass (www.SMXVideoPass.com).
All 17 rounds of the 2026 Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship and 11 rounds of the Pro Motocross Championship are on sale. Tickets for the SMX World Championship Playoff Rounds and Final will go on pre-sale Tuesday, Jan. 27, with general tickets on-sale to the public on Tuesday, Feb. 3 at Supermotocross.com. Saturday FanFest will take place at all postseason races, Friday FanFest and camping will be available in Columbus and Ridgedale, additional details to follow.
For information about the Monster Energy SMX World Championship, please visit www.SuperMotocross.com and be sure to follow all of the new SMX social media channels for exclusive content and additional information on the latest news:
Warhorse HSBK Ducati campaigned Josh Herrin (1) in MotoAmerica Superbike in 2025. Photo by Michael Gougis.
Ducati New York, in partnership with Warhorse HSBK Racing and the Warhorse Group, is proud to announce the official schedule for the highly anticipated 2026 Warhorse Track Day Series. Returning to the legendary “Tricky Triangle,” the series offers riders of all skill levels the unique opportunity to push their limits on the asphalt of Pocono Raceway.
The 2026 series will feature three premier full-day events:
● Monday, May 25, 2026 (Season Opener)
● Monday, June 29, 2026
● Monday, September 21, 2026 (Season Finale)
Designed to bridge the gap between street riding and professional racing, the Warhorse Track Day Series provides a controlled, high-octane environment where enthusiasts can learn from the best. The events are distinguished by the presence of Warhorse HSBK Racing’s professional MotoAmerica staff and riders, offering participants world-class insights into apexes, body position, and track management.
Experience the “Warhorse” Difference
Unlike standard open track days, the Warhorse Series is an immersive moto-lifestyle experience. Participants will enjoy:
● Pro-Level Coaching: Guidance from professional racers and certified coaches for Novice, Intermediate, and Advanced groups.
● The Warhorse Experience: Access to the Warhorse HSBK Racing team infrastructure,
offering a behind-the-scenes look at a championship-winning MotoAmerica team.
● Exclusive Access: Riding the challenging and technical Southeast Option course
configurations at Pocono Raceway.
● Full Support: On-site photographers, fully catered lunch, and technical support to
ensure a safe and memorable day.
Registration and Requirements
Tickets for the Warhorse Track Day Series are available soon. Spaces are strictly limited to ensure low track density and maximum riding time.
● Pricing: Early bird packages will be available via Eventbrite and the Ducati New York
website beginning Feb 13th.
● Requirements: Events are open to all motorcycle brands, though Ducati ownership is
celebrated. Full track gear (one or two-piece leathers, gauntlet gloves, full-face helmet,
and race boots) is mandatory.
For more information, ticket purchases, and technical requirements, please visit
www.ducatinyc.com or contact Ducati New York directly.
Newlywed racers Elisa Gendron-Belen and Levi Badie.
Racers Elisa Gendron-Belen and Levi Badie exchanged wedding vows in Upstate New York on Saturday, January 17, 2026 after a short engagement.
The couple are both MotoAmerica licensed racers who competed as teammates in the SC Project Twins Cups class for Karns Performance during the 2025 season.
Elisa and Levi met in parc fermé at Barber Motorsports Park after their Junior Cup race in 2023.
The FBI says these motorcycles were seized in Mexico from a most-wanted fugitive.
The FBI has officially apprehended Ryan James Wedding, a former Olympic snowboarder and Canadian national, who was added to the FBI’s Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list in March 2025. Wedding is the sixth Ten Most Wanted Fugitive to be captured within the last year, and the 500th capture of an FBI Most Wanted Fugitive since the inception of the list 75 years ago.
What looks like Ducati MotoGP racebikes ridden by Andrea Dovizioso, Loris Capirossi, and Jorge Lorenzo, with a Marc Marquez Moto2 bike in the background. FBI photo.
“This is a huge day for a safer North America, and the world, and a message that those who break our laws and harm our citizens will be brought to justice,” said FBI Director Kash Patel in a post on social media.
Wedding was charged for allegedly running and participating in a transnational drug-trafficking operation that routinely shipped hundreds of kilograms of cocaine from Colombia, through Mexico and Southern California to the U.S. and Canada. Wedding was also wanted for allegedly orchestrating multiple murders of rivals and innocent victims, including a government witness.
A 2026 Indian Chief Vintage. Photo courtesy Indian Motorcycle.
In the wake of kicking off its year-long 125th anniversary celebration, Indian Motorcycle today unveiled the 2026 Indian Chief Vintage – honoring its heritage by reimagining a timeless classic into a new icon for today’s riders. Inspired by the 1940s Chief, its flowing valanced fenders and unmistakable silhouette pay tribute to Indian Motorcycle’s roots, while the Thunderstroke motor delivers the power and presence that set today’s standard. Built with thoughtful, American craftsmanship and obsessive attention to detail, Chief Vintage reflects Indian Motorcycle’s Never Finished spirit, defined by fearlessness, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to provide riders the choice they’ve always deserved in American motorcycling.
A striking tribute to an American classic from the heart of the golden age of motorcycling, the new Chief Vintage fuses classic design with power, precision, and innovation that has defined the brand for 125 years. More than a motorcycle, the 2026 Chief Vintage is a legend reborn for the road ahead.
“Indian Chiefs from the 1940s remain one of the most recognizable and celebrated motorcycles in American history,” said Ola Stenegärd, Design Director for Indian Motorcycle. “With its iconic V-Twin engine, valanced fenders, and unparalleled reliability, the Chief set a standard for performance and design that resonates today. It represents the spirit of Indian Motorcycle – bold, timeless, and always pushing forward.”
Honoring its iconic lineage, the Chief Vintage seamlessly blends a timeless design with modern performance and technology. Celebrating its 125th anniversary, Chief Vintage stands as a statement: The legacy of Indian Motorcycle isn’t a finish line, it’s a launchpad.
Timeless Design
With sculpted lines that pay homage to post-war classics, Chief Vintage looks as though it rolled straight off the original Springfield, Mass., production line in the 1940s. Its unmistakable Indian Motorcycle valanced front fender is complemented by the iconic lit headdress ornament, while a narrow rear subframe and Vintage Handlebars reference the era’s timeless designs. The bike’s Vintage Solo Seat is reimagined for superior comfort and ergonomic support, while wire-spoke wheels complete the timeless American design.
Featuring heritage in every detail, the finish on the Chief Vintage’s Thunderstroke engine captures the spirit of 1940s craftsmanship with non-machined black cylinders and silver-painted cylinder heads and pushrod tubes. These painted components and non-machined fins pay tribute to the raw aluminum finishes found on the original Chief models.
Collectively, the valanced fenders, Vintage Solo Seat, Vintage Handlebars, engine details and wire wheels are not just retro touches: they’re the design cues that defined an era.
Modern Performance & Technology
Chief Vintage delivers modern performance and technology wrapped in heritage. Powering the Chief Vintage is Indian Motorcycle’s air-cooled Thunderstroke 116 V-Twin engine, delivering 120 ft-lbs of torque for effortless passing power in every gear. Three selectable ride modes (Tour, Standard, and Sport) allow riders to tailor throttle response to their preference for a personalized experience.
Delivering industry-leading technology, Chief Vintage is equipped with Indian Motorcycle’s 4-inch Round Touchscreen Display powered by RIDE COMMAND. The 2026 system features an all-new software, improving startup time and loading times by approximately 25 percent. The new software, now available for all Scout and Chief models with the 4-inch Round Touchscreen Display powered by RIDE COMMAND, introduces Indian Motorcycle’s App Enhanced Navigation, delivering seamless integration between a rider’s mobile phone and their on-bike display. With App Enhanced Navigation, riders can intuitively search for destinations on their phone via platforms like Google Maps, Waze and Apple Maps and send them directly via Bluetooth® LE to their bike’s display.
Riders can operate Indian Motorcycle’s 4-inch Round Touchscreen Display powered by RIDE COMMAND via hand controls or the full-color IPS touchscreen. The display offers multiple interface options, including two gauge configurations, detailed bike and ride information, and turn-by-turn navigation with connected services, such as live weather and traffic overlays. If using a wireless helmet communicator, riders can control their music within the RIDE COMMAND system once their phone is paired via Bluetooth® or USB. Riders can also access phone information, including recent calls, contacts, number pad and text message history. When connected, incoming calls will appear and can be accepted or declined directly through the RIDE COMMAND system.
Authentic Accessories
Comfort & Style
Launching with Chief Vintage is a curated selection of premium accessories designed to elevate every ride. Riders can equip front Highway Bars for low-speed tip-over protection and add Highway Bar Lower Closeouts to reduce wind buffeting and shield against road debris. The 17.8-inch Quick Release Low Windshield delivers added wind protection while maintaining a sleek, low-profile aesthetic. Prioritizing practicality and comfort, Indian Motorcycle’s durable, weather-resistant Vinyl Saddlebags provide more than five gallons of storage per bag. Complementing the collection, select Premium Handle Grips elevate both style and tactile feel, while available rider floorboards offer a wider, more stable platform for increased comfort and control.
For two-up riding and all-day comfort, riders can pair the Classic Solo Seat with a matching Passenger Pillion. A Passenger Touring Backrest Pad can also be added, enhancing comfort and making two-up riding more accessible—all without compromising the bike’s classic styling.
Performance & Technology
Chief Vintage includes a range of premium accessories designed to elevate both performance and rider safety. The Pathfinder 5¾-inch Adaptive LED headlight delivers exceptional illumination, automatically adjusting for turns and providing an added layer of safety during night riding. The precision-engineered Chief Stage 1 Slip-On Exhaust produces a deep, powerful tone while improving acceleration and throttle response. Complementing the exhaust, the slash cut tips add bold visual flair and enhance the exhaust growl, with the Thunderstroke Stage 1 High-Flow Air Intake improving engine breathing for smoother, more responsive power delivery.
Starting at $19,999, the 2026 Indian Chief Vintage is available in Black Metallic and Indian Motorcycle Red and will be arriving at dealerships in March.
Garrett Gerloff (31) testing his new WorldSBK Kawasaki ZX-10RR at Jerez. Photo courtesy WorldSBK.
Kawasaki looks to be building momentum in the right direction as the Jerez test gave their rider a chance to get a feeling with his new bike
With the two days of testing at the Circuito de Jerez – Angel Nieto, Andalucia, all wrapped up, American rider Garrett Gerloff (Kawasaki WorldSBK Team) has wind in his sails as the 2026 MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship season approaches with a new bike and new crew chief in his garage. The #31 took to the track on both days of testing, and while poor weather prevented a more comprehensive shakedown, early indications sing the praises of his new bike.
A STEP IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION: “I got to feel a bit of a difference on the aero package from last year to this year”
After taking time to disconnect and recharge his batteries, the Texan had been chomping at the bit to get rolling in 2026 and at last get his first feelings with the 2026 ZX-10RR Ninja. Jerez presented itself as that opportunity, but rainy conditions on Day 1 severely limited riders. While Day 2 provided a slight window around midday where the track had dried off slightly, Gerloff was still held to a cumulative 49 laps, his fastest a 1’40.445s time to place him 11th on the timesheets
On the limited running at Jerez, the Texan said: “It’s a bummer, man! I’ve been waiting two months to get out here and ride this new bike. I’ve been really looking forward to it, but the weather’s been horrible the whole time. Frustrating for myself and the whole team. In the end, we got 20 laps in the dry-ish; it was like half-wet, half-dry, it was sketchy, and a lot of guys crashed in the water at Turn 5. Luckily, we stayed up on two wheels. I felt a bit of a difference in the aero package from last year to this year. That was positive. In the end, it wasn’t enough laps to get a full feeling for everything. We still need more time.”
FRONT END FEELING: “I had the front a bit more planted on the ground, and that’s what we were all hoping for”
The new Kawasaki bike’s most distinctive upgrade is the addition of canards on either side of the fairing to provide additional downforce, aiding grip at the front. A lack of feeling with his front tyre was something that Gerloff has mentioned bothering him throughout the 2025 season, and now with his new bike delivered and making its debut on track, the American has an ace up his sleeve; he just needs to hope for better weather to be able to test its full potential
Despite limited running, Gerloff was able to give some initial thoughts on the new-for-2025 aero package on the ZX-10RR machine: “I felt like I was able to turn better in the faster corners. I had the front a bit more planted on the ground, and that’s what we were all hoping for. That’s something that’s good, but we need to know what it’s like when it’s hotter, and the track has less grip, because if the track’s got more grip than it did last year, because of a lower temperature, I’m going to have better turning anyway. It’s like trying to cancel out the variables and make sure we’re making progress forward. So far, I think that’s the case. That was the biggest place. I only got 20 laps, and let’s call six of those in and out laps, so they don’t really count! I didn’t get a whole lot of time at all to do back-to-backs. We only used the new aero package on Thursday; we didn’t get to compare the old to the new. Really still in the dark about a lot of things.”
A “press release” is promotional text issued by a rider, team, company or organization to inform
the public about an event, product, or service from the issuer’s own point of view, and if deemed
to have news value, may be placed on roadracingworld.com as a service to our readers.
A press release is not an article written by Roadracingworld.com staffers. When a post is labeled with the words “press release”, it means that Roadracingworld.com is not responsible for its content and that Roadracingworld.com makes no guarantee that it is accurate. Not all press releases are posted and Roadracingworld.com may reject press releases if the content is too heavy on commercial promotion with little or no news value or if the press release contains obvious errors.
Accessibility
Accessibility modes
Epilepsy Safe Mode
Dampens color and removes blinks
This mode enables people with epilepsy to use the website safely by eliminating the risk of seizures that result from flashing or blinking animations and risky color combinations.
Visually Impaired Mode
Improves website's visuals
This mode adjusts the website for the convenience of users with visual impairments such as Degrading Eyesight, Tunnel Vision, Cataract, Glaucoma, and others.
Cognitive Disability Mode
Helps to focus on specific content
This mode provides different assistive options to help users with cognitive impairments such as Dyslexia, Autism, CVA, and others, to focus on the essential elements of the website more easily.
ADHD Friendly Mode
Reduces distractions and improve focus
This mode helps users with ADHD and Neurodevelopmental disorders to read, browse, and focus on the main website elements more easily while significantly reducing distractions.
Blindness Mode
Allows using the site with your screen-reader
This mode configures the website to be compatible with screen-readers such as JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver, and TalkBack. A screen-reader is software for blind users that is installed on a computer and smartphone, and websites must be compatible with it.
Online Dictionary
Readable Experience
Content Scaling
Default
Text Magnifier
Readable Font
Dyslexia Friendly
Highlight Titles
Highlight Links
Font Sizing
Default
Line Height
Default
Letter Spacing
Default
Left Aligned
Center Aligned
Right Aligned
Visually Pleasing Experience
Dark Contrast
Light Contrast
Monochrome
High Contrast
High Saturation
Low Saturation
Adjust Text Colors
Adjust Title Colors
Adjust Background Colors
Easy Orientation
Mute Sounds
Hide Images
Hide Emoji
Reading Guide
Stop Animations
Reading Mask
Highlight Hover
Highlight Focus
Big Dark Cursor
Big Light Cursor
Cognitive Reading
Virtual Keyboard
Navigation Keys
Voice Navigation
Accessibility Statement
www.roadracingworld.com
April 8, 2026
Compliance status
We firmly believe that the internet should be available and accessible to anyone, and are committed to providing a website that is accessible to the widest possible audience,
regardless of circumstance and ability.
To fulfill this, we aim to adhere as strictly as possible to the World Wide Web Consortium’s (W3C) Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.1 (WCAG 2.1) at the AA level.
These guidelines explain how to make web content accessible to people with a wide array of disabilities. Complying with those guidelines helps us ensure that the website is accessible
to all people: blind people, people with motor impairments, visual impairment, cognitive disabilities, and more.
This website utilizes various technologies that are meant to make it as accessible as possible at all times. We utilize an accessibility interface that allows persons with specific
disabilities to adjust the website’s UI (user interface) and design it to their personal needs.
Additionally, the website utilizes an AI-based application that runs in the background and optimizes its accessibility level constantly. This application remediates the website’s HTML,
adapts Its functionality and behavior for screen-readers used by the blind users, and for keyboard functions used by individuals with motor impairments.
If you’ve found a malfunction or have ideas for improvement, we’ll be happy to hear from you. You can reach out to the website’s operators by using the following email
Screen-reader and keyboard navigation
Our website implements the ARIA attributes (Accessible Rich Internet Applications) technique, alongside various different behavioral changes, to ensure blind users visiting with
screen-readers are able to read, comprehend, and enjoy the website’s functions. As soon as a user with a screen-reader enters your site, they immediately receive
a prompt to enter the Screen-Reader Profile so they can browse and operate your site effectively. Here’s how our website covers some of the most important screen-reader requirements,
alongside console screenshots of code examples:
Screen-reader optimization: we run a background process that learns the website’s components from top to bottom, to ensure ongoing compliance even when updating the website.
In this process, we provide screen-readers with meaningful data using the ARIA set of attributes. For example, we provide accurate form labels;
descriptions for actionable icons (social media icons, search icons, cart icons, etc.); validation guidance for form inputs; element roles such as buttons, menus, modal dialogues (popups),
and others. Additionally, the background process scans all the website’s images and provides an accurate and meaningful image-object-recognition-based description as an ALT (alternate text) tag
for images that are not described. It will also extract texts that are embedded within the image, using an OCR (optical character recognition) technology.
To turn on screen-reader adjustments at any time, users need only to press the Alt+1 keyboard combination. Screen-reader users also get automatic announcements to turn the Screen-reader mode on
as soon as they enter the website.
These adjustments are compatible with all popular screen readers, including JAWS and NVDA.
Keyboard navigation optimization: The background process also adjusts the website’s HTML, and adds various behaviors using JavaScript code to make the website operable by the keyboard. This includes the ability to navigate the website using the Tab and Shift+Tab keys, operate dropdowns with the arrow keys, close them with Esc, trigger buttons and links using the Enter key, navigate between radio and checkbox elements using the arrow keys, and fill them in with the Spacebar or Enter key.Additionally, keyboard users will find quick-navigation and content-skip menus, available at any time by clicking Alt+1, or as the first elements of the site while navigating with the keyboard. The background process also handles triggered popups by moving the keyboard focus towards them as soon as they appear, and not allow the focus drift outside it.
Users can also use shortcuts such as “M” (menus), “H” (headings), “F” (forms), “B” (buttons), and “G” (graphics) to jump to specific elements.
Disability profiles supported in our website
Epilepsy Safe Mode: this profile enables people with epilepsy to use the website safely by eliminating the risk of seizures that result from flashing or blinking animations and risky color combinations.
Visually Impaired Mode: this mode adjusts the website for the convenience of users with visual impairments such as Degrading Eyesight, Tunnel Vision, Cataract, Glaucoma, and others.
Cognitive Disability Mode: this mode provides different assistive options to help users with cognitive impairments such as Dyslexia, Autism, CVA, and others, to focus on the essential elements of the website more easily.
ADHD Friendly Mode: this mode helps users with ADHD and Neurodevelopmental disorders to read, browse, and focus on the main website elements more easily while significantly reducing distractions.
Blindness Mode: this mode configures the website to be compatible with screen-readers such as JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver, and TalkBack. A screen-reader is software for blind users that is installed on a computer and smartphone, and websites must be compatible with it.
Keyboard Navigation Profile (Motor-Impaired): this profile enables motor-impaired persons to operate the website using the keyboard Tab, Shift+Tab, and the Enter keys. Users can also use shortcuts such as “M” (menus), “H” (headings), “F” (forms), “B” (buttons), and “G” (graphics) to jump to specific elements.
Additional UI, design, and readability adjustments
Font adjustments – users, can increase and decrease its size, change its family (type), adjust the spacing, alignment, line height, and more.
Color adjustments – users can select various color contrast profiles such as light, dark, inverted, and monochrome. Additionally, users can swap color schemes of titles, texts, and backgrounds, with over seven different coloring options.
Animations – person with epilepsy can stop all running animations with the click of a button. Animations controlled by the interface include videos, GIFs, and CSS flashing transitions.
Content highlighting – users can choose to emphasize important elements such as links and titles. They can also choose to highlight focused or hovered elements only.
Audio muting – users with hearing devices may experience headaches or other issues due to automatic audio playing. This option lets users mute the entire website instantly.
Cognitive disorders – we utilize a search engine that is linked to Wikipedia and Wiktionary, allowing people with cognitive disorders to decipher meanings of phrases, initials, slang, and others.
Additional functions – we provide users the option to change cursor color and size, use a printing mode, enable a virtual keyboard, and many other functions.
Browser and assistive technology compatibility
We aim to support the widest array of browsers and assistive technologies as possible, so our users can choose the best fitting tools for them, with as few limitations as possible. Therefore, we have worked very hard to be able to support all major systems that comprise over 95% of the user market share including Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Apple Safari, Opera and Microsoft Edge, JAWS and NVDA (screen readers).
Notes, comments, and feedback
Despite our very best efforts to allow anybody to adjust the website to their needs. There may still be pages or sections that are not fully accessible, are in the process of becoming accessible, or are lacking an adequate technological solution to make them accessible. Still, we are continually improving our accessibility, adding, updating and improving its options and features, and developing and adopting new technologies. All this is meant to reach the optimal level of accessibility, following technological advancements. For any assistance, please reach out to
